A Fresh Start, One Gentle Step at a Time: The Thimble & Tansy Home Reset

a house with a heart in it.....my plan to take my home and truly turn it into a place I love

This year, I’m embracing a gentler home reset—clearing clutter, creating joyful spaces, and preserving memories at a pace that honors real life. Join me for a softer, steadier journey, one space at a time.

Daisies and Sweet Peas: April’s Cheerful Birth Flowers

April birth flowers - the daisy and the sweet pea

April’s birth flowers—the cheerful daisy and fragrant sweet pea—bring beauty, meaning, and a touch of springtime joy to gardens and homes alike. Learn their symbolism, growing tips, and how to use them in everyday life.

Religious Counted Cross Stitch Patterns for Easter

Looking for Easter cross stitch patterns that reflect the true meaning of the season? In a world full of bunnies and eggs, it can be hard to find faith-filled designs. I’ve gathered a collection of both free and paid patterns that celebrate the resurrection—some of my favorites I’ve ever stitched. Whether you’re looking for something simple or deeply symbolic, there’s something here to inspire your needle and your heart.

April in Florida: What Now, Garden?

April Garden plants...morning glory, butterfly pea, and peanuts

This April, I’m starting fresh with morning glories, butterfly pea, and peanuts in my Florida garden. My winter crops may not have made it, but new seeds (and a new season) bring hope and color to the garden again.

A Bloom of Hope: The Journey and Meaning of the Easter Lily

The beautiful blooms of the Easter Lily

Discover the inspiring journey of the Easter Lily—from a suitcase of bulbs to a symbol of spring and renewal. Learn about its rich history, deep symbolism, tips for care, and the reason we’re skipping lilies this year.

8 Beautiful Non-Religious Easter Cross Stitch Patterns (Free Downloads)

Decorated Easter eggs on a blue background sharing that this blog post is all about free Easter cross stitch patterns

Spring has arrived, and it’s the perfect time to start your Easter cross-stitch projects! In this post, I’m sharing a selection of cheerful, non-religious patterns you can download for free—plus a few of my favorite designs from 123Stitch.com.

Boobs, Books, and a Busted Winter Garden: March in a Nutshell

a cover slide that says Goodbye,March with flowers

March was a month for comfort—puzzles, books, homemade meals, and a bit of time in the garden. I finished two fun Ceaco puzzles (with some “help” from Chester), read several great series including Flashpoint and The Dark Road, and rediscovered the Gabriel Allon novels by Daniel Silva. While my Winter garden didn’t produce a single harvest, I’m clearing the beds and getting ready to replant. I also have a cozy recipe to share: Cowboy Meatloaf and Potato Casserole—perfect for when you need something hearty and homemade.

Gentle Productivity: Making a Realistic To-Do List When You’re Low on Energy

a calming scene of a plant, a nice cut of tea or coffee, and a planner....take time

Feeling overwhelmed and low on energy? Discover a gentle approach to productivity using realistic to-do lists that help you get things done—without the pressure.

Growing Cat Grass: A Treat for Your Feline Friend

two cats and a pot of cat grass

Cat grass is a simple and affordable way to keep your feline friend happy and healthy. Not only does it provide essential nutrients and aid digestion, but it also keeps them entertained—just ask my cat, Chester, who loves to munch and nuzzle into the fresh grass blades! Learn how to grow your own cat grass indoors and give your cat a safe, satisfying treat.