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At The Picket Fence with Vanessa Hunt

Where Ideas for your Home Meet Inspiration for your Heart

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June 2, 2017

The Power of Puttering

Last week all four of us traveled to Georgia to attend my beautiful niece’s (Heather’s daughter) high school graduation. It was such a special time together with our entire family and was filled with laughter and memories we will always treasure. And we actually managed to get a photo of ALL of us together which hasn’t happened in…..oh….about 5 years!

On our last day there we were riding high on the fun and the storytelling and the hysterical laughter which accompanied playing the game ‘Speak Out’ (Have you played this yet?? We were crying from laughing so hard!) and all of the little moments that come together to create a truly memorable occasion.

But, as they say, all good things must come to an end. And it REALLY came to an end the day we traveled home. We were up at 5am (which, of course, is 2am Oregon time) and after getting through security and scrounging up some breakfast we made our way to our gate with plenty of time to spare. One glance out the window revealed that our plan was already there which one might think meant that we would leave right on time. Nope. Somehow we still managed to leave 45 minutes late which we knew meant that our already tight connection was going to be even tighter. I won’t go into all of the details about how unhelpful the airline was because it makes me angry all over again but let’s just say that after receiving no assistance at all, sprinting through the Seattle airport (thought I was going to have a heart attack!) to try and make our connection, begging them to open the closed door to let us on the plane and then finally landing in Portland, it quickly dawned on us that there was no way our luggage would have made it too.

We left the airport sans luggage, starving because there had been no time to get any lunch (although I did get mom bonus points for having lots of granola bars in my bag to tide us over!) and in a general state of fatigue and grumpiness.

Upon arriving home we all pretty much crashed down onto whatever soft surface was available and took some time to rest for a bit.

After dozing off for a bit, I forced my weary body to get up but felt so incredibly discombobulated. You know that feeling, right? When you are all out of sorts after traveling and you know you need to catch up on things but you have very limited energy?

So, since I didn’t even have suitcases to unpack and laundry to start, I did the one thing that always helps me come out of the travel fog and reconnect with my home.

I puttered.

Have you ever noticed that there are some words that simply just the sound of them tells you their meaning? Puttering is definitely one of those words. And it is a powerful activity my friends.

I don’t think I even realized just how powerful it is until recently.

You see, lately I find myself feeling a bit restless. A bit out of sorts. I’m finding that my head is full of too many thoughts and an inability to seem to get them all sorted out. I’m overwhelmed by the big projects that need to get done in my home and trying to adjust to having the kids home all day for summer break while also praying to the good Lord that He will help me have the mental (and spiritual) capacity necessary to meet our August book deadline.

I kind of don’t feel like myself but I also don’t even know anymore what feeling ‘myself’ is supposed to look like. I’m not sure if that even makes any sense but it’s the honest truth. I know from past experience though that this is often how I feel right before God begins to do new things in my heart and in my life so I’m trying my best to just embrace it.

And there is something kind of magical that happens when I simply putter around the house.

When I finally put away the remains of the Spring decor and welcome Summer with a bowl full of seashells.

When I clip the first roses and hydrangeas and make an arrangement for our kitchen table that fills the house with the most wonderful fragrance.

When I take a walk around the yard and spy the first blossoms on the daphne and notice that our jasmine is just about to burst forth too.

When I wipe down my kitchen counters and fluff up pillows.

They are all seemingly such simple things and yet, they are so life-giving. My fretful and overwhelmed spirit is calmed as I move from one little task to the next. Nothing is too exhausting or time consuming and there is no pressure to feel like I’ve accomplished something significant.

And yet, this puttering has a very significant impact on my soul. I’m reminded of these words from Laura Ingalls Wilder.

“I am beginning to learn that it is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all.” 

At the end of the day, I think we are all craving more of the sweet, simple things of life. I know I am. So, I putter. Because, as my spirit is calmed and the only thing I’m pondering is which vase to use for the flowers I just cut from the garden, there is room made for me to hear from my Heavenly Father. To be reminded that I don’t just exist to write books and do DIY projects and find Lego pieces and make dinner. It’s in those moments that He whispers words of truth and reassurance to me. And it reminds me of just how grateful I am for this life I get to live.

The power of puttering is a very real thing my friends. Have you experienced it in your own life? I’d love to hear from you!

I’m so glad you met me at the fence today,

21 Comments Filed Under: Good Thoughts

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Jean says

    June 2, 2017 at 3:53 AM

    You said it so beautifully!
    I putter a lot because I can’t seem to get it all together!

    Reply
  2. Teresa at LostMuleLodge.com says

    June 2, 2017 at 4:03 AM

    Oh my goodness – I love this!! My friend and I were just talking about this the other day – and her word for it is putzing! You are so right, it is therapeutic!!

    Reply
  3. Carol says

    June 2, 2017 at 4:21 AM

    YES, I love time to putter. Time to stack the balls of yarn in the basket, time to straighten the kitchen towel drawer, time to talk to my plants and give them more than the obligatory watering, time to put new batteries in one of the candles I keep in the fireplace (gotta get down on the floor to reach in–and then get back up!), time to rearrange some schatzkes from one room to another……those little things that go by the wayside while doing the big things. But, those little things can make such a difference and make me feel contented. I have been trying to sell my home for several months so I can feel that frustration you talk about. Am wondering just what is God’s plan, what is He trying to say to me? And the feeling you described coming home from a trip, I always say to myself “did I used to live here?” “where did I keep this before?” and then I start the washer and begin to feel at home again.

    Reply
  4. Angela Slaughter says

    June 2, 2017 at 5:02 AM

    This is so true! There are so many big projects that need to be done around my house and it has become overwhelming. Yesterday, I spent a lot of time puttering and set aside all of my anxiety over the big issues. I put flowers in my duaghter’s room. I moved pictures and brought out some forgotten candlesticks. Those simple changes made my home feel fresher and brighter. It was good for the house and good for my soul. God really does make his presence known through the simple things in life. Thank you, Vanessa!

    Reply
  5. Lin (Linda) Mossgrove says

    June 2, 2017 at 5:09 AM

    Putter or Putz–you are so right–soul soothing! How many times do we feel that we have to accomplish “major” tasks, but it is in those small, slower moments we feel so much peace. Added to my first cup of coffee and beautiful rays of sunshine (although the temperature isn’t so sunny) this has been a beautiful way to begin my Friday. Thank you and putter on!!!

    Reply
  6. Diane @ An Extraordinary Day says

    June 2, 2017 at 5:19 AM

    Yes! Yes! Yes!! You are so right! When I putter (or putz as Teresa mentioned) my world feels like it gets reset and reordered. It’s like a beautiful interlude in a piece of music. So necessary and yet seems so unnecessary. There’s nothing like the resulting satisfaction. In those moments we really live.

    Sorry for your challenging flight home. Hope you’re beginning to get in your groove. Best wishes as you work on yet another book!

    Reply
  7. Joann Hansen says

    June 2, 2017 at 6:16 AM

    Thanks for meeting at the Picket Fence this morning. Puttering is truly good therapy!! I enjoyed reading the word “discombobulated”. Haven’t heard that in years but know the feeling!
    Our Church Circle is enjoying using your book, “Life In Season” for our lessons.
    Will look forward to your new book. Joann

    Reply
  8. laura janning says

    June 2, 2017 at 6:20 AM

    oh i just love this prespective…and your puttering. your family pic is beautiful. congrats to your niece.

    Reply
  9. Sheila Irwin says

    June 2, 2017 at 7:54 AM

    Loved this post! I think because I am, by nature, such a homebody I love puttering. Sometimes when all the family is gone, which isn’t often, I treasure that time to sink into my house.

    Congrats on the graduation! We just had my daughter graduate and I was reminded again of what a special event a high school graduation is. There is nothing quite like it. And I have to look up this game! We’re a “game” family and I’ve never heard of it!

    Happy weekend!

    Sheila
    Xo

    Reply
  10. Margaret says

    June 2, 2017 at 8:18 AM

    I’m glad you made it home safely even though getting there was stressful.
    “Puttering” is good and laundry is therapeutic for me. I love putting away
    fresh clean towels and organizing my linen closet. Is that crazy or what?

    Reply
    • At The Picket Fence says

      June 2, 2017 at 10:05 AM

      Not crazy at all Margaret!! I find those things totally therapeutic too!

      Reply
  11. Sherry says

    June 2, 2017 at 8:44 AM

    In the south, we putter around outside. Inside we piddle. Both are definitely sweet encouragement and simple times blessed by God. Lovely post. It brought a smile to my heart and my face.

    Reply
    • At The Picket Fence says

      June 2, 2017 at 10:05 AM

      Oh I love that distinction Sherry!! I may have to start using those terms myself even though I’m not a southerner. 😉

      Reply
  12. Pam says

    June 2, 2017 at 10:06 AM

    Great post! I LOVE a day when I
    m home alone and can just PUTTER as well.

    Reply
  13. Shirley says

    June 2, 2017 at 1:53 PM

    Hi Vanessa. – We call it pottering about here in England.
    Hope your luggage got back to you in one piece.

    Reply
  14. Leslie says

    June 2, 2017 at 3:42 PM

    I love this word and its meaning. I need to do more puttering instead of intentional and forceful things that drain and leave no room to hear or ponder. Thanks for the sweet reminder!

    Reply
  15. Vicki says

    June 2, 2017 at 8:58 PM

    On the days I putter, I can look back and see that I have accomplished something, but maybe not what was intended. But it is usually refreshing.

    I will say I love your blog, but I do miss hearing more from Heather, and “her” side of the fence.

    Love you guys!

    Reply
  16. Linda T says

    June 3, 2017 at 2:01 PM

    Oh how well I relate. In our house my husband refers to it as “nesting”, I guess he thinks of our home as our nest and I just go from corner to corner doing exactly what you talked about. Stay on task or only do one thing at once??? not this bird!

    Reply
  17. Rose L. says

    June 3, 2017 at 10:27 PM

    You have a lovely family! And now more memories to preserve and cherish.

    Reply
  18. Sandy says

    June 5, 2017 at 6:19 AM

    The power of puttering or putzing around the house is real and tangible! It sounds like it helped heal your soul and get you grounded after a long trip. It’s something I do regularly especially coming home from a trip. There is a part of me that is happy to be home but then my heart is gently grieving that the trip and family time has come to an end. I always get a little melancholy after coming home from Florida after visiting some of my family that live far away. I loved this post and you verbalized it perfectly.

    Reply
  19. Andrea says

    July 21, 2017 at 3:16 AM

    Piddle, putter, putz, potter….so many different words for the same thing! Whatever you call it, we all know exactly what you’re talking about!

    Reply

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The first weekend in December seems like a good ti The first weekend in December seems like a good time for my annual gentle reminder about this month. I don’t know about you but, for me, December is a month of mixed emotions, ranging from joy-filled moments to ones that have me wanting to pull my hair out.

There are so many expectations and we put so much pressure on ourselves to create magical memories. And for years I have felt the added weight of wanting to make sure my family had opportunities throughout the month to grow in their relationship with Christ.

We celebrate advent and read all of the appropriate Baby Jesus books and encourage a spirit of generosity and heavily emphasize the real reason for the season.

But sweet friends, I want to remind you today that one month out of the year does not a strong relationship with the Lord make. December doesn’t define our faith in Christ.

For our families or for us.

There are 11 other months in the year. 11 other months to live out our faith in front of our children. 11 other months to pray with them. 11 other months to help them wrestle through their questions and add depth to their walk with the Lord. 11 other months to encourage them to have generous spirits.

Let’s stop putting so much pressure on this one month out of the year. Let’s be surprised at the ways we might be able to celebrate the baby in the manger without a dozen countdown calendars. Let’s give our kids some grace when they are focused more on gifts because…well…they’re kids after all.

And while we’re at it, let’s give ourselves some grace too.

Grace when we think we should feel all the warm fuzzy feelings about Christmas but we really just want to take a nap. Or have a good cry. 

Grace that reminds us that this month will soon be over and we will have a brand new year ahead of us.

A new year filled with big moments and little moments and everything in between.

A new year to draw even closer to our Savior.

My hope for you is that, as you head into this season, you will be given fresh perspective and that you will give yourself (and your family) permission to just ‘be’. ✨
✨ The first Sunday of Advent is upon us and this ✨ The first Sunday of Advent is upon us and this year I created a super simple centerpiece for my dining room that incorporates the candles we will use each of the four weeks leading up to Christmas. While we will only light one candle each week, I used more than four so that the centerpiece would look a bit more filled in. In keeping with my goal to embrace a softer approach to my decorating, this arrangement works perfectly and helps to keep our focus on the beauty and the meaning  of the Advent season. For more ideas like this, check out my previous Advent post! ✨

#advent #adventcandles #simplechristmas #wearethehomemakers
In this season of motherhood, my soul is feeling a In this season of motherhood, my soul is feeling a bit more tender. When Christmas rolls around and I no longer have wish lists that include Lego sets or dollhouses, I find that I want my home to reflect this craving for all things gentle.

So our hot cocoa station this year is much more simple and done in a neutral color palette that just subtly blends in with the rest of the decor. It still feels festive and is definitely still “user friendly” but it’s just a bit less…well…less.

And, that’s ok. It’s not that this area won’t ever again have bright colors (maybe even pops of red!) but, right now I’m happy to have things this way.

With all that is going on in the world right outside our door, my desire is for our home to truly feel like a respite. I want it to be where we come and let our guard down, our heart rates slow and to be flooded with a sense of peace in knowing that here is where we can just simply be. I want it to be a place of rest. Rest from the constant onslaught of news and information. Rest from the seemingly small struggles of school and jobs that can so often feel like big struggles.

And, most importantly, we rest in the comfort of knowing the One who is Sovereign over all and is the reason this month is so very special and sacred.

Many blessings to you dear friends as we kick off this wonderful season! ✨
Next week is first Sunday of Advent. And contrary Next week is first Sunday of Advent. And contrary to popular belief, the celebration of Advent is VERY different from just simply doing a ‘countdown to Christmas’. It’s not about having little drawers filled with candy or doors to open with prizes inside. Those things are so much fun and definitely help to build anticipation as you head closer and closer to the big day.

But Advent, from the latin word ‘adventus’ meaning ‘arrival’ or ‘appearance’ keeps the focus completely on celebrating the arrival of the King who came in the form of an infant.

This is one of our favorite family traditions and over the years I’ve figured out how to incorporate the Advent candles into my decor without using the traditional wreath. I hope this gives you some ideas and inspiration as we head into this sacred season. 🌲

#advent #adventdecoration #wearethehomemakers
Why do I start decorating before Thanksgiving? Bec Why do I start decorating before Thanksgiving? Because it’s the Saturday after and my house is almost completely ready to start the season! So I’m sitting with my coffee and just soaking it all up knowing that now I can focus on shopping, hosting and preparing our hearts for the start of Advent. The only thing left to do is get our fresh tree for the front room and then the decorating is done. 

Starting early is a gift I give to myself and I’m always grateful for it! 🌲

#simplechristmas #traditionalchristmas
“I would maintain that thanks are the highest fo “I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” ~ G.K. Chesterton

Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours dear friends! 🍂
Christmas has arrived in the family room where I k Christmas has arrived in the family room where I keep things simple but festive! We’ll get a fresh tree after Thanksgiving which will go in our front room bay window but this slim faux tree with its colorful ornaments tides us over for now. Which room in your home gets the Christmas treatment first? Or do you just start doing a little at a time in each room? 🎄

*pillow covers are from @jshhomeessentials
I share this recipe every year because it’s JUST I share this recipe every year because it’s JUST.THAT.GOOD! 

And I have a confession ...I’d rather have cranberry sauce smothering the turkey on my plate than gravy any day!! And this, this right here? Well it’s the best (and easiest!) cranberry sauce ever!! I eat on crackers and sandwiches and sometimes just by the spoonful. It’s so yummy! And I’m just so very thankful for all of you that I’m going to leave the recipe right here instead of making you go to the blog to get it. I promise you won’t regret having this on your Thanksgiving menu but be warned...you may find yourself up in the middle of the night sneaking some helpings of this deliciousness. Or maybe that’s just me!

Ingredients:
2 pounds fresh or frozen cranberries
2 oranges
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup white wine.

Instructions:
Wash and pick over berries, removing any that are soft. Peel and dice oranges removing any seeds. Combine all ingredients in a large pot. Bring to a full boil. Reduce heat and continue cooking until cranberries pop open and mixture is thickening.
For best flavor, prepare and let stand for several days before using.

Gobble, gobble!! 🦃
How do I want people to feel when they walk throug How do I want people to feel when they walk through my front door? That’s always at the top of my mind when I’m decorating my entry for each season, particularly at Christmastime. 

✨I want them to feel like my home is greeting them with a smile.

✨I want them to feel like this is a place where care has been given to details (but not to the point of being too stuffy or too busy or too overwhelming). 

✨I want them to feel like there is peace here.

✨I want them to feel like they are welcome…because they are. 

My home is a reflection of my heart and my heart is a reflection of the ONE for whom I live and try to honor and praise all of my days, but especially at Christmas.

How do you want people to feel when they come into your home? 

#christmasentry #simplechristmas #simplicity #wearethehomemakers
This is not a criticism of those who are sharing t This is not a criticism of those who are sharing their great new Christmas finds but rather an encouragement to those of you who are feeling a bit overwhelmed by it all and trying to resist the temptation to purchase more items than you really need.

Several years ago I felt a conviction in my heart about how much time and money I was spending on trying to create a new look every Christmas. I was not being a good steward of my resources and I was far too easily swayed by the peer pressure in this area. And a funny thing happened when I smashed this idol that had taken up residence in my heart. I suddenly found renewed joy in decorating for the season. By keeping things simple and maybe only buying something like a new spool of velvet ribbon, I actually realized that I could be far more creative reusing and repurposing what I already had.

In the coming weeks your news feeds will be filled with temptations for MORE. Maybe, this year, you too can find the joy in LESS. 🌲

#simplechristmas #simplicity #wearethehomemakers
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