Recent Reads & Reviews

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I’m thrilled to once again talk books with you. You’ll find lots of goodness in this stack! Click the titles to order your own. Let’s dive in…

Laughing Through the Ugly Cry

This book is beautifully designed with happy colors and pretty photos, but the story inside is intense. Dawn Barton shares how she dug deep to find joy in the hardest of circumstances. As someone who was raised to find the humor in just about anything, I loved the message. This one is an encouragement, and designed to be a gift for a friend who needs it most.

On the Bright Side

I adore Melanie Shankle’s sense of humor and writing style so I was eager to read her latest book. The message is timely, refreshing, and encouraging. She is always quick to offer a funny story to make her point, while speaking truth and offering wisdom. This one is a winner!

Mother & Son

I didn’t grow up with a brother and most families around us had all girls too. Now I find myself raising a teenage boy and often feel out of my element. This book offers so much insight into a boy’s needs and the mother/son relationship. It’s full of tools and practical advice. If you need a glimpse inside your son’s head, this one’s for you.

The Lies That Bind

Emily Giffin weaves a gripping story. Her books are the best kind… the ones that make you neglect everything else for hours as you continuously plow through “just one more chapter” again and again. This one is set in New York City in the fall of 2001 and offers romance, mystery, and an interesting look at a historic time in the United States. It’s a great escape… and I know I needed it.

The Home Edit

If you need a little spark to ignite your home organizing efforts, this book will light your fire! It’s full of gorgeous, inspirational photos and even includes a set of refrigerator labels. I enjoyed the various takes on similar spaces, so that you can determine the style that best suits you and your home.

Here’s what’s coming up next:

STAND ALL THE WAY UP // CILKA’S JOURNEY // THE FAITH OF QUEEN ELIZABETH // MYTHS AMERICA LIVES BY // STAMPED FROM THE BEGINNING // BIG WONDERFUL THING // THE PHANTOM OF FIFTH AVENUE

At-Home All Stars

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Hello, lovelies!

During our extended time at home certain things around the house have proved to be extra useful. I thought I would pass along my “At-Home All Stars” so they can help you too!

Water Fun

Sadly, the pool isn’t happening this summer so we are enjoying our yard as much as possible. I sprung for this fancy slip-n-slide and it’s been a huge hit! I also surprised the kids with the cutest inflatable water limbo. It quickly became something to ride skateboards through and other creative games. We have this darling unicorn sprinkler too. Who needs a water park?

Relaxation for Momma

I adore having everyone home, but need the occasional alone time to recharge. A nice long bath is my favorite way to unwind. Sometimes I use it for prayer, sometimes for reading, sometimes to just zone out. I’ve loved Epsom salts lately, especially this coconut one. I even got myself a pink measuring scoop to use with them.

Keep it Clean

The combination of constantly having everyone home and taking a break from our cleaning ladies means our house needs some serious help staying clean. There are two devices I’m not sure I could live without: my stick vacuum and my steam mop. This vacuum is so powerful and I use it multiple times a day on the main floor of our home. My parents gifted me this steam mop at Christmas and I am not sure what I did before then. You will be both shocked and satisfied by what it gets off your floors!

I realize this list is all over the place, but that’s just how we roll these days. It really is all about the little things. Lots of love to you!

Movie Night: Unstoppable

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Surf’s up and your spirits will be too! Unstoppable on Netfilx is a documentary about Soul Surfer’s Bethany Hamilton. Follow her as she unwavering navigates the loss of her arm due to a shark attack to return to her competitive surfing career, balancing newfound fame and motherhood along the way. You can’t help but be encouraged by her determination and faith.

Our surf snacks for this movie were simple homemade cupcakes with ocean-blue frosting and surfboard toppers. Surfboard napkins finished the look. I love the beachy feel!

I hope you enjoy this one. If you have younger children, be sure to check out the content here. Also… be sure you watch past the credits to the very end!

Have a great weekend.