January Favorites

Today I’m sharing six of my current favorite things.

#1: Quieting the house

I love the “empty” feeling of my house right after Christmas. I know that sounds weird, but there’s something incredibly peaceful to me about the house once all the Christmas decor is boxed up and put away.

I happened across a blog post from The Nester about “quieting the house” the week the kids went back to school and was instantly all-in. Myquillyn, The Nester, says, “A hushed, simple space is the best way to give your house a fresh start.” Quieting the house is “a simple, painless, lazy/smart woman’s way to jump-start the decluttering process.”

Did she say “lazy/smart”? Hello! That’s me!

Here’s a screen shot of her process:

I learned several things while quieting my space: #1: My room needed a lot of dusting before it could breath without coughing. #2: Once the space was empty, it was very obvious what I missed and what I didn’t. #3: Simplicity is refreshing, and it can be beautiful.

I didn’t take of a picture of the mantle before, but here’s the after picture. 

I’ve completed the living room, kitchen, desk area and master bedroom, and I love the results.

If you’re interested in learning more about The Nester or this process, click HERE.

#2: Peppermint oil

I’m a newbie when it comes to oils, but we’ve been getting great use out of peppermint oil lately. I put it in bath water, drip it on pillows and rub it on tummies and temples.

I know many of you are well versed in all things essential oils. I’d love to hear about your favorite go-to oils.

#3: Diva

My friends have been oooing and ahhing about this laundry detergent for a long time, and look what they gave me for my birthday!! Yall, this detergent sells like heaven.

It is made by the Tyler Candle Co.  Hello, delicious! It’s pretty pricey so I’m using it in moderation. I add one cap-full of Diva to my normal detergent, and that’s been the perfect amount for us. My husband, who usually doesn’t like much scent on his clothes, loves it too.

Thank you friends!

You can find this luxurious detergent HERE.

#4: The Listening Life

The week before New Years, I begin to ask the Lord for one word (or phrase) that can serve as a guide for my year. This year, I chose the word listen. 

Listening is about more than lending an ear. It’s about laying yourself down. It’s opening a door and pulling out a chair for another. It’s a way to serve. It’s a way to love. It’s an act of obedience. It’s how you get to know a person.

This book has been a kind companion on my listening journey. I’ve already marked up its pages, read and reread.

If you’d like to read more about the book or grab a copy of your own, click HERE.

#5: Nickle and Suede Earrings

Every year my long-time besties do a Christmas gift exchange. We’ve gifted our favorite things, scarves and this year earrings. We all walked away with such fun finds.

Here are the girls (minus Brittney) and our spoils.

After two steals, I ended up with these awesome gold, leather earrings. I love how light weight they are. They have quickly become one of my favs.

You can find them (and some really cute cuffs) here. 

#6: Our New Edition

Lastly, I had no idea people have such strong opinions about cats. If you aren’t a fan of the feline variety, now is your chance to click away.

Our new, little purr-baby has given us loads of entertainment. She is hilariously playful, with just the right amount of sweet and snugly. She’s already trying to show the dogs who is boss. Plus, she is the cutest, little sleeper.

What’s not to love about that?

Since I started this post, I’ve already discovered three more new favorites to share, but I’ll have to hold you in suspense until February.

Now it’s your turn! Comment below and share some of your current favorites. I’d love to hear from you!

 

{FYI: All purchase links send you to Amazon, where I am a grateful affiliate 🙂 }