Mom Thoughts

Best Apple Crisp/Cobbler Recipe: Family Favorite

Homemade apple crisp made with our homegrown apples! 😋 So tasty! It is a Fall favorite at our home. My grandma called this recipe simply...

Gena Bessire

Easy Dried Apple Recipe: Family Favorite

I have been keeping my college-bound crew busy making dried 🍏 apples. They will be headed off to school in a few days, but not before...

Gena Bessire

Avocado Taco Recipe

Supplies: Guacamole (See Family Favorite: Guacamole Recipe ) Corn Tortilla Shells Shredded Cheese Tin Foil or Cookie Sheet Optional:...

Gena Bessire

English Toffee Candy Recipe: Christmas Family Favorite

A delicious traditional English Toffee that my family has been making for generations. Easy to make and so good. Ingredients: ½ cup...

Gena Bessire

Yummy Snicker Caramel Apple Salad Recipe: Family Favorite

A great dessert salad that combines so many amazing flavors and textures! Ingredients 6 regular size Snickers Candy Bars 4 medium apples...

Gena Bessire

We hope you had the HANDS DOWN best Mother's Day EVER!!!

As you can see this greeting is a day late because I was enjoying Mother's Day with the very hands ;) who made this all possible. It was...

Gena Bessire

True Story and Parenting Hack

When my sweet husband goes out of town on a business trip, I run to WinCo and buy a boatload of lunchmakers and frozen meals. I go on a...

Gena Bessire

Instagram

With just a month until my kiddos head back to school, I’m stepping away from social media to soak up these last sweet moments of summer with them. Wishing you all a wonderful month—see you soon! 🌞📚

#SummerBreak #FamilyFirst #VacationMode #SmallBizLife #SeeYouSoon #OutOfOffice #MakingMemories #WritersLife #MomFirst

“For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for Me and for the gospel will save it.” — Mark 8:35 ✝️✨

Verse of the Day via @YouVersion

#Mark835 #BibleVerse #ScriptureOfTheDay #Surrender #FaithOverFear #JesusSaves #ChristianLiving #GospelTruth #DailyScripture #WalkByFaith #TrustInGod #LivingForChrist #JesusIsLife

Started my day with a peaceful stroll through the garden — and these peonies stole the show. 🌸✨ There’s nothing like nature’s gentle reminder to pause and breathe in the beauty around us.

#Peonies #GardenWalk #MorningMoments #FlowerLovers #PeonySeason #GardenJoy #BackyardBliss #BloomAndGrow #NatureBeauty #StopAndSmellTheFlowers

He wakes himself up with the softest little meow, and if you dare say hello — he’s in your lap, sound asleep in seconds. 🐾💤

#CatLife #LapCat #SleepyKitty #FurryFriend #CatSnuggles #CuddleBuddy #CatLovers #PetLove #CatNaps #MeowMoments

“Weeping may stay overnight, but there is joy in the morning.” — Psalms 30:5 🌅✨

Verse of the Day via @YouVersion

#Psalm305 #BibleVerse #ScriptureOfTheDay #FaithOverFear #JoyInTheMorning #GodsPromises #ChristianEncouragement #HopeInJesus #BibleTruth #DailyScripture #ChristianLiving #TrustHim #JesusIsHope

Took a quiet morning stroll through my garden and the peonies absolutely stole the show. 🌸✨ Their beauty never gets old — soft petals, sweet fragrance, and a reminder to pause and savor the simple things.

#PeonySeason #MorningWalk #GardenJoy #PeoniesInBloom #SlowLiving #FlowerLovers #BackyardBliss #GardenTherapy #NatureInBloom #PeacefulMoments #FloralInspo

Sunshine, peonies, and a picket fence — my little corner of paradise in full bloom. 🌿🌸✨ There’s nothing quite like being among flowers to remind me how sweet the simple things really are.

#GardenBliss #PeonyGarden #BackyardBloom #CountryGarden #FlowerLovers #GardenInspiration #BloomAndGrow #NatureLover #SimpleJoys #GardenLife

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” — Revelation 21:4 ✨

Verse of the Day via @YouVersion

#Revelation214 #BibleVerse #Scripture #Faith #HopeInChrist #ChristianEncouragement #GodsPromises #BibleTruth #DailyScripture #ChristianLife #TrustGod #JesusIsHope #PeaceInHim

Grape-scented iris—my childhood favorite 💜
One sniff and I’m right back in the garden of my childhood. Sweet, simple memories in every bloom.

#IrisLove #GardenMemories #GrapeScentedBliss #FlowerFavorites #BackyardNostalgia #Writerslife

"I’m sorry… were you trying to do Bible study?" 😼📖
Because clearly, lap time takes priority.

#CatIntervention #BibleStudyBuddy #FelineDistractions #LapCatLife #HolyInterruptions #Writerslife

“The stone that the builders rejected became the cornerstone.”
— Mark 12:10 ✨

Verse of the Day via @YouVersion
#Cornerstone #Mark1210 #FaithInChrist #GodsPlan #ScriptureStrength #BibleVerseOfTheDay

Beautiful Korean lilac blooms in full glory! 💜
Delicate, fragrant, and absolutely enchanting—nature’s perfume at its finest.

#LilacLove #KoreanLilac #SpringBlooms #GardenMagic #FlowerJoy #Writerlife

"I’m sorry, sir… you don’t quite fit."
But does he care? Absolutely not. This box is now his throne. 🐾📦

#IfIFitsISits #CatInABox #BoxBoss #FelineAttitude #CatitudeInCardboard #Writerslife

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Freddie and Grace Mystery!!!Coming July 1st! The Highland Heist (Book 4), by @pepperbasham

I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of Freddie and Grace’s adventures. In The Highland Heist, they once again find themselves knee-deep in murder, mystery, and this time, all things Scottish. Just as they’re returning from their honeymoon, Frederick surprises Grace by rerouting their travels to America so she can visit her father, sister Lillias, and meet her new nephew. But the happy reunion they expect quickly unravels. They arrive to find the family home sold, Lillias’ husband Tony murdered under suspicious circumstances, and a Scottish barrister seeking them out to deliver surprising news: Grace and Lillias have inherited a Scottish castle from their late mother. [see full review]
https://www.genabessire.com/post/book-review-the-highland-heist-by-pepper-basham

Preorder at your favorite retailer:
https://www.amazon.com/Highland-Heist-Freddie-Grace-Mystery-ebook/dp/B0F36H5R5W/

#bookstagram #readerscommunity #bookmail #happybookmail #igreads #blameitonabashambook #freddieandgrace4ever #thehighlandheist #freddieandgrace #pepperbasham #bookstagram #christianfiction #romancenovel #mysterynovel

"Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come." – 1 Timothy 4:8 🕊️💜

Verse of the Day via @YouVersion
#FaithFirst #1Timothy48 #SpiritualGrowth #Godliness #DailyInspiration #FaithJourney

The first of my peonies are here! 🌸
Soft petals, sweet scent, and all the joy of spring wrapped in one beautiful bloom.

#PeonySeason #GardenJoy #FirstBlooms #FlowerLover #PetalPerfection #Writerslife

Mini road trip with my sweet husband 💕
He said, “Want to come with me for a ride to look at a car?” 🚗 …and how could I say no? Love these little adventures together. 🛣️💑

#RoadTripVibes #SpontaneousAdventures #LoveTheLittleThings #TimeTogether

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7 (NIV)

Verse of the Day via @YouVersion
#VerseOfTheDay #YouVersion #BibleApp #Philippians47 #PeaceOfGod #ScriptureDaily #FaithOverFear

Deep in edits…is there an end in sight? Asking for a protagonist. ✍️📚 #amediting #writerslife #writingcommunity #deepinedits #sendpepsiandchocolate

😴 Hello, sleepy kitty.
Living the fluff life, one nap at a time. 🐾💤

#SleepyCat #NapGoals #FluffMode #CaturdayEveryday #CozyCatLife #WritersLife #WritingCommunity #WritingBuddy #ReadingCommunity

💌BOOK MAIL!💌

Woohoo!!! I’m so excited to have received an early copy of this book! The Highland Heist ✔, chocolate ✔, ❤️ time to read! Thank you, @pepperbasham and @barbourbooks, for this awesome book mail!

Don’t forget to pre-order your copy!

https://www.amazon.com/Highland-Heist-Freddie-Grace-Mystery-ebook/dp/B0F36H5R5W/

#bookstagram #readerscommunity #bookmail #happybookmail #igreads #blameitonabashambook #freddieandgrace4ever #thehighlandheist #freddieandgrace #pepperbasham #bookstagram #christianfiction #romancenovel #mysterynovel

Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.

-- Isaiah 43:1

#BibleVerse #Scripture #Faith #BibleVersesDaily #GodsWord #ChristianLife #VerseOfTheDay #BibleQuotes #TrustInGod #Prayer #JesusLovesYou #DailyScripture #ChristianEncouragement #GodIsGood #WordOfGod

🌲 Larch Love 🌱
I discovered these deciduous conifers a few years back—now I'm adding them all over my acreage. Unlike most conifers, Larches lose their needles in fall and return fresh and feathery each spring. Quietly unique, and totally worth the wait. 💚

#LarchTree #SpringGrowth #DeciduousConifer #BackyardForestry #SlowAndSteady #TreeLove #AcreageGoals

Apple blossoms turn to show off 🌸🍎

Every year they show up quietly, but they never fail to steal the spotlight. Just one more reason to love spring.

#AppleBlossoms #SpringSimplicity #NatureMoments #TreeInBloom #SeasonalBeauty #WritersLife #WritingCommunity #GardeningCommunity

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.

-- John 13:34

#ScriptureOfTheDay #BibleVerse #DailyScripture #VerseOfTheDay #ChristianInspiration #FaithOverFear #BibleQuote #JesusFirst #GodsWord #ChristianEncouragement #Writerslife #ChristianWriter

🌻 Hello, sweet volunteer sunflowers
You weren’t planted, but here you are—pushing through the soil like you’ve got a story to tell. I wonder who you’ll grow up to be. 💛

#VolunteerSunflower #GardenSurprise #SunflowerBabies #GrowingJoy #NatureIsMagic #UnexpectedGuests #Writingcommunity #Readingcommunity #WritersLife #WritersGarden

Happy Customer Review!⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Love it, thanks so much
-- Laura

❤️ See the collection of Bookish Creations I've made on Etsy: http://tinyurl.com/ilbbbookishcreations

#happycustomerreview #customerreview #customerlove #bookish #keychain #keyring #readerkeychain #turnthepageadventureawaits #adventureawaits #readerscommunity #readers #writerslife #forthejoyofreading

Blossoms now, cherries later 🍒🇺🇸

Every time I see these flowers, I think of the Fourth of July—sticky fingers, red-stained shirts, and bowls overflowing with sweet cherries. Summer’s not far off.

#CherryBlossoms #FourthOfJulyFeels #CherriesGalore #SummerOnTheWay #OrchardMemories #WritersLife #GardeningCommunity #ReadingCommunity

I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

-- Psalm 23:4

#ScriptureOfTheDay #BibleVerse #DailyScripture #VerseOfTheDay #ChristianInspiration #FaithOverFear #BibleQuote #JesusFirst #GodsWord #ChristianEncouragement #Writerslife #ChristianWriter

🌱 My peas are popping up!
Tiny, determined, and already reaching for the sun. Garden season is officially underway! ☀️

#PeasPlease #GardenStart #SproutingJoy #GrowYourOwn #PeaShoots #FirstSprouts #WritersLife #WritersGarden #WritingCommunity #ReadingCommunity

Not exactly wildlife—it’s just the neighbor’s turkeys stopping by for a chat. 🦃👀

#countrylife #neighborhoodvisits #turkeytalk #wildlifeornot #backyardguests #neighborhoodpets #turkeyvisitors #smalltownlife #friendlyfaces #writerslife #readingcommunity #writingcommunity

Peach blossoms mean good things ahead 🍑🌸

Fresh blooms on old wood—always a good sign. Here’s hoping for a sweet harvest later this year.

#PeachBlossoms #SpringPromise #FruitOnTheWay #HopeInBloom #OrchardSeason #WritersLife #WritersGarden #WritingCommunity #GardeningCommunity

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

- Proverbs 3:5

#ScriptureOfTheDay #BibleVerse #DailyScripture #VerseOfTheDay #ChristianInspiration #FaithOverFear #BibleQuote #JesusFirst #GodsWord #ChristianEncouragement #Writerslife #ChristianWriter

Was here for the plum blossoms… stayed for the cat 😺🌸

I was lining up a shot of the blooms when this guy climbed up like he was born to model. Honestly, he kind of stole the show.

#PlumTreePoser #CatCameo #SpringSurprise #UnexpectedModel #BloomAndPurr #WritersLife #GardenCommunity #CatLife #catsofinstagram

Springtime sunshine and busy bees! 🌼🐝 Watching my daffodils bloom is pure joy—nature’s cheerful reminder that brighter days are here.

#springflowers #daffodils #busybee #gardeninglife #springhasarrived #flowerlover #naturephotography #gardenjoy #springvibes #writersgarden #writerslife #writingcommunity #readingcommunity

Spring in pink and plum 💮🌸

Loving the contrast of these soft pink blossoms and deep red leaves against the blue sky. Just a quiet moment to appreciate the season.

#SpringViews #BloomSeason #NatureInFocus #SimpleBeauty #FlowerShot #FloweringPlums #PlumBlossoms #Writerslife #WritersGarden #WritingCommunity #ReadingCommunity

#BibleVerse #Scripture #Faith #BibleVersesDaily #GodsWord #ChristianLife #VerseOfTheDay #BibleQuotes #TrustInGod #Prayer #JesusLovesYou #DailyScripture #ChristianEncouragement #GodIsGood #WordOfGod

Easy Mexican Lasagna: Family Favorite

My sweet sister-in-law made this once for years ago and it was so tasty I asked for the recipe. It has been a staple in our house ever since. Easy to make and delicious!

See full recipe: https://www.genabessire.com/post/easy-mexican-lasagna-family-favorite

#EasyPeasyRecipe #Writerslife #MexicanLasagna #ComfortFood #EasyMeals #FamilyFavorites #FoodieJoy #EasyCooking #FamilyDinner

Two Seconds Too Late by @authordanipettrey is available for purchase!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Two Seconds Too Late is an adrenaline-fueled, action-packed—Dani Pettrey has delivered another thrilling ride...see full review: https://www.genabessire.com/post/book-review-two-seconds-too-late-by-dani-pettrey

📖 Buy Now:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0764238493?ref_=dbs_m_mng_rwt_calw_tpbk_1&storeType=ebooks&qid=1688910240&sr=8-1

#jeopardyfallsseries #twosecondstoolate #upallnightsuspense #DaniPettrey #jeopardyfalls #fakedatingtrope #RileyandGreyson #AgeGapRomance #privateinvestigators #romanticsuspense #christianromanticsuspense #bethanyhousepublishers #preorder #brothersbestfriend

Just over here perfecting my model pose. 😼✨ #Catitude #FelineLife #FloofLife #PrettyPoser #catcommunity #writerlife

photo credit: Fluffy Kitty's girl❤

Coming out soon! I can't wait!

Preorder: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0764238493?ref_=dbs_m_mng_rwt_calw_tpbk_1&storeType=ebooks&qid=1688910240&sr=8-1

#jeopardyfallsseries #twosecondstoolate #upallnightsuspense #DaniPettrey #jeopardyfalls #fakedatingtrope #RileyandGreyson #AgeGapRomance #privateinvestigators #romanticsuspense #christianromanticsuspense #bethanyhousepublishers #preorder #brothersbestfriend

📚�✨ Embrace your bookish heart with this charming keychain! Perfect for readers who carry stories wherever they go. 💖 http://tinyurl.com/ilbbbookishcreations

#BookishLove #ReaderGifts #LiteraryLife #readingcommunity #writingcommunity

Is there anything prettier than an orange cat? Yes—TWO orange cats! 🧡🐾
Double the fluff, double the love, double the beauty.

#OrangeCats #GingerDuo #CatGoals #TwoIsBetterThanOne #Writerslife #Writingbuddies

Happy Easter! 🌷🐣 Wishing you a joyful day filled with hope, renewal, and sweet memories with those you love. HE IS RISEN! ✨

#HappyEaster #HeIsRisen #EasterBlessings #SpringJoy #FamilyTime #CelebrateHope #EasterSunday

What's your go-to steak marinade? 🥩✨ Mine is simple, flavorful, and always the number one request around here. 😊

Recipe 👉: https://www.genabessire.com/recipes/marinated-steak

#SteakNight #FamilyFavorites #MarinadeMagic #Writerslife #CookingCommunity

Hello again, sweet crocuses! 🌸 These little beauties never fail to make my heart smile. Spring’s gentle magic is everywhere—especially blooming in my backyard. Soaking up another lovely day in the garden! ☀️🌱

#springflowers #crocuslove #prairiecrocus #gardenlife #flowertherapy #yardbliss #naturelover #writersgarden #pnwliving #amwriting #amreading #springvibes #springfever

They're back!!! 🌸✨ Spring has arrived in full color here in the Pacific Northwest. Enjoyed a beautiful weekend of sunshine and garden adventures alongside my favorite gardening partners—my kiddos and my sweetheart. Feeling grateful for days like these! 🌱☀️

#amwriting #amreading #writer #ratherbewriting #rbw #lovestory #authorsofinstagram #writerslife #flowerpower #prairiecrocus #gardenjoy #springawakening #yardgoals #familygardening #sunnydays #pnwspring #springmagic

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Best Apple Crisp/Cobbler Recipe: Family Favorite

Easy Dried Apple Recipe: Family Favorite

Avocado Taco Recipe

English Toffee Candy Recipe: Christmas Family Favorite

Yummy Snicker Caramel Apple Salad Recipe: Family Favorite

We hope you had the HANDS DOWN best Mother's Day EVER!!!

True Story and Parenting Hack

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