The Art of Cozy Living in the Countryside | Quiet Cooking, Errands & Simple Living

Welcome to our home ❤️

We began the day slowly, starting with a small treat for Jellybean before easing into the morning. I prepped a batch of meatballs early so they could marinate while we headed out to run a few errands. Along the way, I brought you with me to a thrift store and on the search for a winter jacket as the colder weather settles in.

Once home, I made a simple and comforting spaghetti and meatballs dinner for the family. Afterward, I stepped outside to gather firewood and spend some time in the woods. I shared an idea with my husband for a small bushcraft shelter we could build together this winter, something to help us enjoy the outdoors even in the colder months. While he began clearing the land, I made a simple fire and soaked in the quiet. Back at home I was inspired to try a cherry blossom tree craft using melted wax. I was surprised how fun it was to make.

The next day, with guests arriving, I baked a batch of matcha crinkle cookies for everyone to enjoy — a small, cozy way to welcome time together.

It was lovely to spend time with you 💕 and thank you for being here. We hope 2026 blesses you greatly with good health

Until next week — from our home at Taigh Nadair to yours 🌍

Italian Meatballs 🍝

Ingredients

Ground beef

Red onion, finely chopped (divided)

2 eggs

Breadcrumbs

Olive oil

Pasta sauce of choice

Salt and pepper

Italian-style seasonings (such as garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil)

Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped red onion, eggs, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.
After chilling, roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs and set aside.

Heat a pan over medium heat with a generous drizzle of olive oil. Add the remaining chopped red onion and sauté until softened. Gently place the meatballs into the pan, then immediately pour the pasta sauce over top. There is no need to brown the meatballs beforehand.

Cover and cook on medium heat for about 20 minutes, carefully turning the meatballs once halfway through cooking. Serve warm over pasta and enjoy.

🍪Chocolate Matcha Crinkle Cookies

Ingredients

1 cup cocoa powder

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

½ cup neutral oil

2 eggs

2 tablespoons molasses

½ cup milk

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

¼ teaspoon matcha powder

Pinch of salt

1 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Optional: Hershey chocolate top
Instructions
In a large bowl, add the eggs and granulated sugar and beat until well combined. Add the oil and molasses and mix until smooth. Add the milk.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, matcha powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.

Roll dough into balls on your sheet pan and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) then roll each ball generously in powdered sugar.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the cookies are set but still soft in the center. If using, gently press a Hershey chocolate into the center of each cookie immediately after removing them from the oven.

Allow to cool slightly before serving