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Books, Favorite Things, Friday Eve Favorites, Gifts, Makeup

FRIDAY EVE FAVORITES – January Edition

Bringing you a few favorite things on this glorious Thursday….

Why Thursday?  Because it is my favorite day of the week!  It’s the eve of the weekend, full of hope.  Although, if you are a parent, weekends basically mean nothing – you’re still on duty. Friday Eve Favorites will come monthly, or more. Stay tuned for some fun surprises coming up this year!

Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Drops

These little drops are added to your facial moisturizer. I add 2 drops to my morning (or evening..just not both, or you’ll be super dark.) moisturizer, combine the two products in my palm, rub on my face, and let the glow build. My skin is sensitive, so I was a tad nervous to try these – but haven’t had one issue with breakouts! These drops come in light, medium, and dark. Just pick your tan and enjoy!

Start Today Journal by Rachel Hollis

“A goal is a dream with a sports bra on.”

Who isn’t a Rachel Hollis fan? She has an amazing attitude and spirit….limitless energy. This journal, the Start Today Journal is super intentional and I am LOVING IT! It’s all in one place – daily gratitude, dreaming, and goal setting. You can find yours at Target stores now!

Rapid Egg Cooker

My family eats boiled eggs like they are candy. It’s a tad disturbing. I make them by the dozens to keep in the fridge. I’m going to admit something really lazy…I hate boiling eggs and peeling them. This little rapid egg cooker is so fun – not only does it make perfect boiled eggs (and other variations of styles), but they are super easy to peel! Praise be to the chickens.

Betabrand Dress Yoga Pants

A few months ago I was trying to find some regular dress pants. Not skinny, not cropped, just REGULAR pants for NORMAL women. I ran into my friend, Alicia, awkwardly grabbed her hips and said, “Where did you get these?” Betabrand are the most comfortable pants you’ll ever wear to work. Your bottom half isn’t going to know what to do with all that moveable, breathing room. Expect a thank you card. Betabrand has several makes and models, but my favorite are the classic boot cut. For us normal gals.

LV Dupe Insulated Cooler

This has been such a fun little cooler. It’s obviously a LV dupe, and I’m 100% okay with having a knockoff cooler to put ice in. During football season I needed a cooler to bring into games – not to cheat the system (trust me, we purchase plenty from the concession stands), but to bring water and cooling cloths. We arrive at away games 2 hours early to set up the run through tunnel for the players. (And by we set up, I mean Chad.) The concession stand isn’t normally open that early, so I hunted down a cooler that looked like a purse. It comes in a black version as well and makes for awesome girlfriend gifts filled with their favorite drink! (It comes with an odd red tag on the front that I cut off with a razor….)

One Word Book

This isn’t a new book. It’s just a really good one. I first read it years ago, but picked it up again this month while I was figuring out my word for 2020. One Word breaks down how to choose your own word for the year. It’s a quick read, takes 45 minutes, 44 if you listen to the audio version. Definitely worth it.

Classic Button Down Shirt

I love a classic button down blouse that holds shape. This one is around $22 and comes in almost every color! I wash mine, hang it out, and find that it barely needs to be steamed before wearing! I haven’t ironed one yet. I normally am a small/medium in tops however, in this one I wear a large so the buttons don’t pull.

Fillable Brass Scent Lamp with USB port.

I bought this lamp for a friend. We were decorating her desk and then discovered it has a USB port! Stop it. Her desk is basically like a hotel with a charging lamp! I quickly had to go back and get 2 more, because I love any hidden place to charge my phone. You can fill this lamp with seasonal decor to spruce up any area, but I love it simple.

Leopard Adidas Sneakers

I would marry these if I could. They are super comfy and adorable. Dicks Sporting Goods currently has them in stock, however before they did, I found mine on Amazon here. I sized down a whole size, apparently Adidas sneakers run big. Also, my teens tell me I’m old for calling these sneakers. Whatever.

Maybelline Superstay Matte Ink

I don’t love usually lipstick. It doesn’t stay on and I’m too lazy to reapply all day, when I can swipe some gloss on without a mirror. This Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink in Loyalist is amazing. It stays on most of my day with a dab of gloss on top of it. There are lots of great shades, Loyalist and Dreamer are my favorite. But what do I know? I spent the majority of my teen years wearing Dr. Pepper flavored chapstick.

And lastly…a favorite meme of the month.

Replace the tarot cards with Angel cards, and there is a slight chance this might be the future for Grandma Brookie.

Love & Light to all,

Brooke

Books, Christmas, Fashion, Favorite Things, Gifts

A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS 2019

I’ve made a list, and checked it thrice for a few of my favorite things this year….

This list is longer than years past. Since I have laid low for awhile, consider this my apology of love.  For shopping and perusing purposes, click on the pink highlighted title of each item to be directed to the link of the item mentioned!  I do not profit on any purchases from the links.  However, I have all Amazon products linked to benefit The Cove in Waco, which helps teenagers experiencing homelessness.  So, don’t be a Scrooge, help the kiddos and purchase from the links!  More info about The Cove later…

Let’s dive into some favorites!

Cozy White Cottage Book 

Cozy is my true love language.  The past few years, I’ve focused on rearranging, decorating, and bringing in what makes our home feel like an inviting place to snuggle up and relax.  I read and collect a lot of books – especially favorites that also double as beautiful decor. This one is by Liz Marie Galvan, who has a gorgeous blog and instagram you should check out.  Cozy White Cottage is written so well.  Wonderful content and completely doable ideas for the common folk.  It is also a gorgeous coffee table book.  You are welcome to come over, prop your weary feet up and read it beloved.

 

Cica Cream

I found this gem of a face serum/cream through an Instagram friend, I ordered it from Amazon without a lot of hope, due to my skin being sensitive.  This is so soothing, moisturizing, and amazing – I’ve already gone through 2 jars.  Since it is priced so well (around $17!), I use it liberally on my neck and chest as well.  Cica Cream is a high grade Koren skincare cream.  It’s a formulation that has been around for centuries, dating back to when the ancient Greeks would steam chamomile into their pores. Google it to see for yourself and then order you some.  I would not lead you astray on skincare.

 

Kork Ease Shoes

I stumbled on this brand last year, and they quickly became my favorites. If I am looking a new style of foot wear, I look for a Kork Ease option first. Let me admit, the name alone made me feel like I had given up on fashion and was going straight orthopedic shoes – if you feel the same, I promise the style, cushion and comfort of Kork Ease will melt away any worries you may have.  From personal experience, I can tell you their options of boots, pumps, clogs, mules, and wedges are all great choices.  Like these, and these, and these.  Your feet will thank me – I promise.

 

Personalized Scripture Journal 

This was a favorite birthday gift, given by a precious friend.  Each journal is custom made to place your name in 72 different scriptures.  Each page of the journal has a scripture written on the bottom.  Like this…

Seeing my name in scripture makes me hear and feel it deeper.  What great gift for a loved one, including yourself!  Customize your own at Paper Sunday.

 

Oribe Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray

This stuff is liquid gold.  Blowdrying my hair is my least favorite chore, but I’m thankful for hair, so I look for products that make it easier.  Like this spray and my favorite blowdryer from the Favorite Things 2017 list.  I need to apologize for putting something on my list that cost as much as this spray. (But the dryer is $32, so perhaps that helps?)  I blame Corrie and Mason. I get it wholesale since I birthed and raised my hairdresser, so, maybe see if you can talk a child into cosmetology school?  If you want to try this brand or product, and can’t find it wholesale, maybe start with the travel size.  It also doubles as a perfume, as it smells heavenly.  I’d love to try the other hair products Oribe offers, but haven’t figured out which kidney to donate.

 

Organic Spirulina Tablets

I have an amazing cousins, one being my favorite health guru who always provides me with answers to my health questions.  These little Spirulina tablets are a favorite supplement that we take, they assure that we get the protein we need from greens.  They are rich in protein, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants – a green superfood!  The tablets are small, so taking several at once is not a problem at all.  I take them by small handfuls. Maybe large handfuls on the days I eat bad, which is most days. #healthnut

 

Vivo Per Lei Facial Peel

I bought this exact facial exfoliant peel from a sales booth last year.  I loved it, but couldn’t find it again to reorder.  I was so excited to find it (through a recommendation on Amazon) for 1/4 of the price…less than $12! It gently exfoliates, cleanses, brightens skin, and reverses aging. I “peel” twice a week, and get so excited when it is time to use it!

 

 “Seven Gnomes Stitchery”

If you love cross stitching, or wish to start a new hobby – this Etsy Shop Seven Gnomes Stitchery has the CUTEST and most creative patterns!  Jillian, the owner and creator, is so great to work with, and also offers custom creations from time to time, like the pattern above that I stitched for our Powder Room.  My family doesn’t think I’m near as funny as I am.  (If you follow me on Instagram and have seen some of the bible verses stitched, this is the Etsy store they came from!)

 

Rhythms of Renewal 

This book just makes so much dang sense.  It’s sweet and incredible. Daily struggles with anxiety and stress make it difficult to receive God’s peace. Rhythms of Renewal  will help you trade your anxiety for the vibrant life you were meant to live through four rhythms: Rest, Restore, Connect, and Create.  You can take a quiz on her website to discover your healthiest rhythm, the one that comes most naturally for you. Then receive input and feedback on the remaining rhythms, with actionable steps on ways to strengthen and grow.  Shocker that mine was NOT rest, but with this book, I’m learning!

 

Judy Blue Jeans 

Oh, these jeans!  I can live life so much better in comfy clothes.  Judy Blue is new to me.  I found them at Apricot Lane here in Waco, they come in so many shapes and washes and have a GREAT price point, usually around $39 or $49.  They have a great stretch that still holds structure.  The sizing comes in odd sizes, for reference – I wear a 4/6 or 27/28,  in these I usually wear a 3.  The rule of thumb is that if you can stretch them out past an inch, then you need to size down.  I also have one pair in a 5, and wear those just as much since they don’t lose their shape and bag.  Swing into Apricot Lane for more fun fashions! You will love Kristin and staff!

 

Lauren Ferrell Designs 

I found this talented gal when I was looking for unique earrings for a friend.  I ended up with earrings for myself as well – she has great designs and they are all so LIGHT!  Which is a big deal to me, heavy earrings ruin a great attitude.  Lauren is young, hip and makes jewelry for a great cause – yearly trips to Haiti for mission work and sponsoring Odinia, a young girl in the Mission of Hope school system.  Order from her website, or follow her on Instagram!

 

NuDerma Portable Handheld High Frequency Skin Therapy Wand

Before I found this on Amazon, I was texting our Skin Magician to stop in with my boys for her to “zap their zits” weekly.  This high frequency treatment kills the bacteria directly beneath while simultaneously providing a natural boost of cellular energy to both kill acne causing bacteria and reduce inflammation at the same time.  My girlfriend uses it for anti-aging purposes, to boost circulation and collagen product which help “plump” skin cells to fill in voids which are the underlying cause of wrinkles and fine lines.  The price of this is incredible (less than $35!), we use it so much that it is out on the counter more than stored away neatly.  Zappin’ our life away!

 

Praying for Strangers Book

This is the sweetest read.  It’s an easy book to curl up and devour in a sitting, or read an easy chapter a day.  I’ve always thought of prayer being a vertical connection to God, until reading this I realized it could also be a connection to others.  A great book and gift.

 

Pony O Hair 

I have a lot of hair and still can’t get a full pony tail look…until these.  Pony O’s are completely different than your basic hair ties.  Watch the videos on their website to see if they are for you before ordering.

 

Nike Tanjun Trainers 

 These sneakers are so comfy – I train in them, dance in them, run in them, errand in them, and lounge SO well in them.  **Warning – They are so comfortable that you will want other colors.  I’ve linked these to Nordstrom Rack, where I ordered my first pair.  I’ve found all the other pairs on Amazon and Poshmark.  They run true to size.

*If you are wanting these soft and amazing jazzy leopard leggings, you can get them on Amazon!

 

Live in Grace – Walk In Love Devotional 

It’s no secret what a huge fan I am of Bob Goff and his teachings. He has a new devotional out that is going in all stockings this year!  It’s just as nourishing as all his other books – a great start or end to any day.

 

Active Hydration Serum

This is a must have for all skin types.  One of my main concerns with my skin is hydration, which is a battle with combination skin.  Super fun. This miracle serum balances moisture levels and raises skins hydration by 200%, and maintains hydration for 8 hours.  It’s incredible!  Add to your face before you “Zap” it with the high frequency therapy wand.  *They have a body cream option, Active Hydration Body Replenish that is the only body cream that keeps my legs hydrated in the winter.

 

Make Up Eraser 

A friend told me about these over the summer and I can’t thank her enough.  These are the BEST – simply wet and cleanse your entire face.  All your makeup, including eye makeup will be GONE!  It’s my favorite magic trick yet.  You can find them at Amazon or Nordstorms.  They have mini travel makeup erasers too!

 

Have More Fun Book 

A friend gave me this book at what couldn’t have been a more perfect time. “How to be remarkable, stop feeling stuck, and start enjoying life.”  This book is light, funny, and deeply good for the soul. If you aren’t sold on reading it, pick it up and read the Conclusion…yep, the last chapter.  I’m giving you permission to skip to the end.  If that doesn’t speak to your dried bones, then this is not the book for you.  If it does speak to you, the audio book is a great one as well!

 

Lush Body Butter Bar 

These little guys are a moisturizing life saver. Truly.  A friend got me hooked on these a couple of years ago. Lush is an amazing store with a story to match. This Body Butter Bar is as exfoliating as it is moisturizing.  They also have a travel case that goes with the bars, so it can be gifted neatly to those who are hard to shop for…who doesn’t want soft skin?!

 

Sweet Grace Laundry Detergent

Sweet Grace has been my favorite candle scent for years, but recently I was turned on to their laundry detergent…heavenly! I have linked it to Amazon, however if you are local to Waco – Wildflower Boutique on Richland carries all of the Sweet Grace scented goodies!  Stop in and see her!

 

Pacifica Pink Nudes

Found this and several other favorites from my Instagram friend Cattle Baron in Cashmere...keep reading for more info on her shortly!  I don’t wear eye shadow much, due to lack of effort or care.  This has been a fun jazz up to my makeup routine!  Love the soft, pinky nudes of this pallet. 

 

Folex Carpet Cleaner

Apparently I am the last person on earth to know about this miracle cleaner.  I have to share it in case anyone else is living under a rock.  This is the best carpet/rug spot cleaner!  Even for red wine!  It’s great to have on hand with a house full of teenage boys…it has saved their life several times.

 

Plush Leopard Pajama Pants 

These PJ pants came in the same gift as the Scripture journal back in the summer, which means my precious friend knows me well.  PJ pants and a journal…two paths straight to my heart.  These are so soft and warm, which are MUST haves in our house that is always freezing to this Momma.  They come in several other colors and patterns with still the same plush goodness.

 

Matilda Jane Pajama Pants

It is a well known fact that if I am home for longer than 4 minutes, I will change into comfy clothes, or half change.  Even when I’m home between work meetings, hence this photo above. I had 1 hour to hang curtains in our son’s room and couldn’t do it in heels and work pants.  So, I semi-changed – Business on top, Cozy on the bottom. I used this photo to show you the length of these pants is perfection.  The material is definitely made of angel wings.  They are solid and soft.  A good rule of thumb is to grab a pair from each season of Matilda Jane.  Here is a link to their other pj pants of the season if the Christmas jammies are sold out in your size.  The sweetest part of these is their non-judgmental nature.  They will live in harmony with whatever color or print top you wear them with.  (See photo for proof)

 

Orleans No 9 Room Spray 

A friend of mine got so tired of me commenting on how amazing their house always smells, she finally gifted me with my own Orleans No 9 room spray.  I love room sprays, but get frustrated when the scents don’t last long.  I can spray this in the morning, and still enjoy it when we walk in the house that evening!  I don’t know what the difference is in this one, but it is a big one.  She found it at a Boutique in College Station, but here is it on Amazon, with their other scents for pursuing. I’d always rather shop local, so if you know where to get it around Waco, please let me know!

 

Cattlebaron In Cashmere

I adore this gal and her Instagram account.  She is hilarious, shares the funniest memes, has the BEST recipes and Amazon finds!  So many of my favorite things, were found through Alison.  Besides my kids, I don’t even know why I got on Instagram every day before Cattlebaron in Cashmere.  Give her a follow, you won’t be sorry.

 

The Cove

The Cove is a teen nurturing center designed to provide a safe space for students experiencing homelessness to access the resources they need to thrive.  Our friend, Alicia, introduced me to this organization.  Until I learned about it through her, I have to admit – I had no clue how many teenagers experience homelessness.  Let’s do something?  Whether it be a small donation or your time. If you aren’t local, I encourage you to look in your own town to find a need to help with.

 

Lastly, one of my Favorite Things this year and every year, are friends like these.  Friendship is built of 1,000 small kindnesses, a lot of acceptance, and a little bit of patience.  Swapped back and forth, and over again.   

Thank you for being a friend.

XOXO –

Brooke

 

*Featured photo by Alyssa Simmons.

 

 

 

Books, Courage, Friendship, Gratitude, Growth, Laughter, Makeup, Rest, Stillness

What is saving your life right now?

Barbara Brown Taylor has made a practice of asking others and herself that question often*.

Salvation is a word for the divine spaciousness that comes to human beings in all the tight places where their lives are at risk, regardless of how they got there or whether they know God’s name. Few of us can choose our circumstances, but we can choose how we respond to them.  To be saved is not only to recognize the alternative to the deadliness pressing down on us but also be able to act on it.”

This morning when I awoke, I started a list. Shallow and thoughtful.  Spiritual and materialistic.  Here is what is saving my life right now. Continue Reading

Books, Favorite Things, Gifts, Laughter, Lessons

A few of my Favorite Things….2017

I’m no Oprah…but I do have a few favorite things this year.  I wish this post was going to end with the surprise that every single one of you, and your cousin, would be getting all items mentioned.  Spoiler alert – No free candles.  However, I would love to share some favs. For shopping and perusing purposes, click on the title of each item to be directed to the link of the item mentioned!  (This is not a sponsored post.)

First and foremost – what I’m most excited about really highlights my shallowness and vanity.  I hope you guys can accept that, we can get deep later.  I can’t even wait to tell you about it….drumroll please.

Revlon Salon One-Step Hair Dryer & Volumizer

I know what you are thinking….Revlon?  I wish I could credit whatever podcast I heard about this on…because that girl deserves ALL the credit.  This blow dryer has changed by mornings and made my hair look like angels brushed it.  I’ve always wanted to be the girl who round brushed her hair, but accepted that I was the uncoordinated girl whose arms get tired and whiney when it comes to blow drying my hair.  Thank you Relvon, for hearing my cries and giving me volume.  Quickly.

Seamless: Understanding the Bible as One Complete Story

A friend of mine recently invited me to do this bible study with her, as she was leading a class at her church.  Three weeks after they started, I accepted the invitation.  Classic move.  Catching up on the study was easy, I didn’t want to put this down.  I’ve read the bible my entire life, done countless bible studies and devotionals, yet have never completely understood it. I’ve loved Angie Smith’s simple way of walking us through all the stories and tying them together so well!  It’s so good, and the videos for the end of each week can be found on Youtube…or call Kyla. I’m certain she would be happy to drive to you and show you how to find them.

I’m already feeling the urge to goal plan for the new year!   I’m old school, and need paper to write on.  So, choosing a new planner is a big deal for me.  Here are my favorites…

Erin Condern Lifeplanner 

My ol’ faithful….I’m on year 6 with this girl and like the vertical layout.  Mainly because I started using these before they gave an option and I’m not prone to change. Hence, the use of paper instead of my phone.

Cultivate What Matters Powersheets – An intentional goal planner.

I’m so excited about utilizing this in 2018.  I’ll most likely be ready to run for President with a few months of goal planning under my belt.  Watch out world. #goalcrushingtime

Anchored Press Devotional Planner

A Christian planner that keeps you focused on God as you organize your day.  Because my bosses in my real job tease me about having a paper planner (they are uber impressive at technology), I’ve had to draw the line at 3 written planners for 2018.  However, after I am President, I plan to add another.  Because I’ll have proven the power of PAPER!  Maybe my slogan will be “Go vintage, use paper! And pretty pens!”

Murad Oil Control Mattifier

My skin is not terribly oily, but by afternoon I had a shine on my t-zone. Not the dewy shine of youth – but the oily shine of dirty-tired (new word, you moms know).  I add a tiny bit of this, after my moisturizer in the morning and it does the trick.

Portfolio Collection Travel Tin Candles

I love candles, candlelight, and lovely smells….who doesn’t?  These little babies make it easy to travel with candles, so your hotel room can be cozy as well!  This brand comes in all sizes and scents, but I’m obsessed with the Portfolio Collection Travel Tin Candles, my favorite scents are linked below.  They make great little gifts or stocking stuffers!  Local friends, you can grab these at The Findery!

Pink Peony (Love!)Lavender Chaparral, Luxe Linen, Santa Barbara, Primrose Beach

Illuminidol Candles

Seriously, these make me laugh so hard and make the most fun gifts.  You can choose from a wide variety of their fun candles or design your own for an extra fee!  A great gift for the darling narcissist in your life. Or for the friends that enjoy a good giggle!  Just look how natural and happy Dolly looks in our entryway!  Gangs all here!  (Elvis not shown.)

 

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Butterfly Lengthening Washable Mascara

Let me introduce myself, my name is Brooke and I am a mascara snob.  Actually, I am an eyelash snob.  I love big, long lashes.  I’m from Texas, the longer the lashes…the closer to heaven.  Or something like that.  I’ve had eyelash extensions, but they are so heavy – I felt like a butterfly just landed on my eyelid.  I’ve used stupid expensive mascara and have loved several.  The other day I was running through Walgreens and grabbed this little guy.  I’ve loved it every bit as much as the costly ones.  The wand is awesome and separating while lengthening.

Book Darts   

I will never read without these little babies again.  Ever.  Don’t even try to make me.  I’ll take them on a deserted island with my book, chapstick, and lotion.  (I’m counting on food being airdropped in for survival.) Book Darts are tiny little book marks that aren’t bulky, they are so thin and inconspicuous.  I always feel a deep need to underline and highlight special messages in books – an act that used book stores don’t appreciate.  They are so picky.  So, book darts to the rescue.

Pup Socks 

Or your cat. Or your favorite HUMAN!  Stop it.  I almost didn’t share this good news with you friends, because it might ruin a few gifts.  But, I’m a giver…so, you’re welcome.  What I can’t share are the ones I ordered for my friends and family members.  Stay tuned friends, my social media sites will be BLOWING UP with photos after Christmas.  Honey, Bunny, Ryder, Remy, Auzzie, Valentine, and Emma will be famous to more people than just their loving Momma.

Giddy Up, Eunice: (Because Women Need Each Other)

Loves, if you’re looking to get me a gift, please bring me Sophie Hudson.  If that is too weird, then fine…just read her books so we can chat.  This is her most recent book, and how I came to know her.  I laughed and cried and cheered all through it.  I’ve always been a supporter of women, fully believing that we don’t shine brighter by blowing out the candle of another.  What if we could instead reach out, up, and back to invest in all generations of our sisters.  We are all just walking each other home.  Some ahead of us, some behind us.  Let’s just all get there.

Muk Luks Slippers


I wish these house slippers came in wedges.  Life complete. Until then, I’ll collect every color/print of them in effort to trick people that I am wearing shoes. Comfort is so important to me, it should be its own love language.  Don’t know your size?  Head to Target and try them on!

Maui Babe Lotion

Don’t let the “after browning” part of the label fool you.  My “browning” comes from a bottle (shared below), this is my daily lotion.  It feels like conditioner for your skin, and it’s not sticky like some lotions can be.

Fake Bake Flawless Tanning System

Get your hands ready to clutch some pearls sister.  I am a 39 year old gal who spent her early years in a tanning bed. And loved it.  I even owned one.  The search to find something as relaxing as laying in that tanning bed, my skin warming while the fan blew on my burning skin…was unsuccessful. However, I did find a solution for a tan that doesn’t give you cancer like the UV rays do. (Please, I don’t want to hear about all the toxins being absorbed through the skin. Go elsewhere Fun&Beauty Police, just let me have my tan.)

Chatbooks…the modern app version of scrapbooking

I know, I know…you are all tired of me preaching about Chatbooks.  I simply have a fierce love for photos and memories, Chatbooks tie them both together.  Download the app and upload your photos from your phone, Instagram, and Facebook.

Bridgewater Candles

Light a candle, feed a child. For each container candle purchased Bridgewater donates funds to feed a child for one day!  These are made in America and sold in boutiques around the country as well, so buy local and support your store owners!  (Waco peeps, Salvage Sisters carry them.)  My favorite scent is Sweet Grace, the air freshener is amazing as well!

Fox Print

Fox Print is a great app for these fun vintage polaroid prints and magnets – all downloaded from pictures on your phone. Our laundry room fridge is filled with the sweetest faces.

 

And there you have it my friends.  By now, I’m sure you have learned that I get excited about the smallest of things.  If we can’t love the small things, how would we ever know how to appreciate the large things?

Books

A good book has no ending…Favorite Reads

A good book has no ending…

Reading is my inhale. Choosing a favorite book is like picking a favorite son.  It isn’t possible.  Therefore this post will be turned into a page on this site, and I will continue to add good books as I stumble across them.  The list will be ever growing and a little mixed.

Stop what you’re doing and go read The Mark of the Lion series. You need to redeem yourself anyways for reading Twilight and 50 Shades. Just get through the first few chapters and you’ll be hooked. Trust me. (Then read Redeeming Love by FR)

Curl up with this one. You’ll actually feel it hug you as you read it. Present over perfect beloved friends.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jen Hatmaker speaks my love language, dramatic hyperbole. I understand her well, more importantly, it seems she understands me. Or at least that’s the feeling I get when reading her books. Read this, then jump into the deep end of grace. *Great audio version as well.

A great novel that will hook you quickly! The sequel is coming out in July!

Having a bad day? Let Jon Gordon fix it with any book of his. This is an energizing, motivating read. The audible version of this is amazing as well.

This book was recommended at a crucial time in my life. Love it. Quote it often. Consider this your recommendation.

This book is why I parent so perfectly. 🙂          My copy of this book, and the teen version, are dog eared on my nightstand. A great reference book for when your kiddos mess up. Hit the pause button and go find the chapter that applies!

You’ll either love me or hate me for recommending this book. Just choose to love me ok? The details in this book are revealed so beautifully. The story is an emotional one and a bit heavy. “…I ask you right here please to agree with me that a scar is never ugly. That is what the scar makers want us to think. But you and I, we must make an agreement to defy them. We must see all scars as beauty. Okay? This will be our secret. Because take it from me, a scar does not form on the dying. A scar means, I survived.” <3

A friend gave me this book years ago and it remains a favorite. It’s a beautiful, true story of everyday magic. Even if you don’t agree with her logic or believe her story. This world would be boring if we all had the same opinion.

A great read for Boy Moms! The same author wrote “Love and Respect” (the best relationship book ever. Seriously. Get off the crazy cycle and read it). This is applying the same respect principal to our little men.

Jeannette’s memoir is a “remarkable memoir of residence and redemption”. You will be in awe of what she has lived through and overcome. I couldn’t love this more.

Love Does is one of the loveliest, most authentic books. Bob Goff has a magical way of sneaking in lessons about Jesus, life, and love. I’ve read/listened to this book 9 times. Read it sister. Then read it again. www.lovedoes.org

Get ready to fall in love with Corrie Ten Boom. She is not only a survivor of Hilter’s concentration camps, but a lover and teacher of all that is good and holy. Her walk with God was a deep one we can all learn from.

A heart warming story of his gift of experience while bringing awareness to a great need…packed full of golden nuggets & life lessons throughout these pages. You will be changed and inspired. Lots of healing tears. “When circumstances drag on you, weighing you down to the point you think you can’t take another step, muster your courage, stay strong and keep walking. Don’t walk only when it’s convenient; don’t merely walk till you get tired; keep walking through it all. Walk to beautiful.”

It’s Willie. Need I say more? What’s funny is that this book actually made me a Willie fan!

A favorite, amazing author. Wall makes you feel, think, and ponder. In real time. This book is a “brutiful” southern family saga, written with such feeling, such emotion, that you get tied up in the story, in the characters, in the events.