Today I’m sharing a few of my favorites things:

#1: THESE BOOKS

The Beautiful Outlaw by John Eldredge

Yall, I loved this book. It gives a stunning view of the humanity of Jesus. By highlighting many aspects of Jesus’ very human personality, this book will make you fall in love with Him like never before.

The Rest of God by Mark Buchanan

Again, this is a book I highly recommend. After each chapter, the author provides practical ways to practice and experience the rest of God … and you know how I love practical.

Invitation to Silence and Solitude by Ruth Haley Barton

This book is for anyone interested in learning more about the practice of silence and solitude. Again, the author offers practical ways to put this disciple into action.

#2: THESE SHOWS

I have been in TV silence for awhile now, so it’s fun to find some new (and not so new) shows worth watching again.

First, can we please just talk about this:

Please tell me you’re watching this too!! I love the way they are weaving the stories of this family together. It’s funny. It makes me cry. If you aren’t watching it, you really should. The only con is that one hour is too short!

SURVIVOR: Millennials vs. Gen X

Speaking of old! We haven’t watched Survivor in years, but the idea of Millennials vs Gen X intrigued me. So far it’s been very entertaining. We’ve even started letting the kids watch it, and they’re totally into it.

#3: THESE FLAVORS

In our house, we only drink water (and coffee for the big people). Although I am admittedly horrible about drinking enough water, adding some flavor has helped. So far, these three are our favorites. Do you use Mio? I have a feeling someone is going to tell me these are bad for me. If they are, do you have any other alternatives?

#4: THIS HAIR DRYER

Up until two weeks ago, we have been a one hair dryer family. (Are your kids still taking over your master bath too?) When I went away for a weekend retreat, I decided it was time for another hair dryer.

I don’t know if my other hairdryer was just past it’s prime or what, but this new hair dryer is AMAZING. It blows some serious air! My hair drying time has been cut in a half. Plus somehow my hair seems softer, straighter, longer and more blonde with every blow dry. (Ok, maybe not the last two.)

I bought mine at Walmart for less than $30 but you can also find it here. 

Speaking of past its prime …

I think it’s time for a new brush! (Why have I not thrown this away?) Anyone have a favorite brush?

#5: SETTING ALARMS

I know some of you have been using alarms or notices on your phone for years, but this is new for me. Hello!! Genius.

The first alarm I set was to give myself working hours for A Meaningful Christmas. Instead of working on and off all day long, I have now set a boundary for myself for this specific project. I can’t tell you how much brain space this has freed up for me.

The other alarms are to remember vitamins. Because I can’t.

#6: SHORT AFTERNOON NAPS

This fall I have given myself permission to take a nap when I need to. On days when I’m tired, I lay down for 45 minutes to an hour before the kids come home from school. Sometimes I read and sometimes I sleep, but always this is a smart choice in my day.

You can read more about the benefits of a daily nap here. 

That’s it for me!

Do you have any new favorites I need to know about?