music

Favorite Things of 2022

Happy New Year! We’re almost two weeks in to 2023, and I hope you’re all doing well. I’m hoping for good things for us all this year!
Today I want to share some of the stand out things of 2022. We’ll span the whole spectrum of categories, so grab a seat and read on.

Life

Target Dress (old,unavailable) | Similar Target Sandals

Paul and I started going back to church in the summer and have really enjoyed it. We haven’t always been able to go to church together. His work schedule never really allowed it while we lived in Louisiana, and when we moved back to Alabama we weren’t really sure where we fit. Anyway, I’m just really happy to be able to attend church together and to grow together in our faith. God opens doors right when we need him to, and I am so grateful that he does.

Safer Beautycounter Sunscreen | Matrix by Lauren Groff | Quay Sunglasses (Ever After)

This summer was the first one that I didn’t have a second job. I fully embraced summer vacation and took time off. It was glorious. I read so many books!

Other highlights of the year were:
Growing tomatoes for the first time and acquiring a second rose bush and a lime tree that is incredibly high maintenance, but the limes are GOOD!
Marrying off my best friend in the sweetest ceremony.
Attending two Auburn football games.

2022 had a few upsets for us too. One being the loss of my Aunt Sharon. We share a birthday and had a very special bond. I miss her terribly, but God continues to show His goodness and faithfulness even in times of loss, grief, hurt, and disappointment. On the morning she died, I was heading out the door to work, and when I opened it there was the biggest cardinal just sitting on a powerline looking at me. I gasped, and it flew away. I hadn’t heard the news yet, but in that moment I knew it was my sign that she had passed. As I was pulling into the school parking lot, my mama called to tell me my aunt had died early that morning. My friend told me the cardinal was a God wink to let me know she was okay. I believe it. God works in mysterious ways and no doubt knows that old saying about cardinals showing up as lost loved ones. His goodness and faithfulness never fails.

Listening

Nicolle Galyon released her debut album called Firstborn. Nicolle is a songwriter of many songs that you know and love in the country music genre, but she finally put out her own album, and It. Is. Incredible. She is one of the most gifted songwriters of her generation, and I could listen to her album over and over again and never tire of it. Oh wait, I did that.

Towards the end of the year and still now (let’s blame it on Yellowstone coming back in November) I started listening to Lainey Wilson (specifically Bell Bottom Country), and I think I really like her. If you’re following me on Instagram, you’ve likely heard her songs popping up in stories. I wake up singing one almost every morning.

Watching

The White Lotus on HBO Max was a show Paul and I tried in season one and couldn’t really get into it. Well, a podcast I listen to started devoting their episodes to season two of The White Lotus and that made me very curious. I wasn’t sure if I needed to finish season one to fully get season two (you don’t) but I powered through it and ended up really liking it.
But season two!!!
That was the better one for me. It’s set in Italy so it’s breathtaking scenery, and I liked the characters better. Highly recommend.

House of the Dragon was the other show I was very excited about watching this year. It came out in August on HBO Max and is a prequel to Game of Thrones focused on the ancestors of Daenerys Targaryen. I thought it was incredible and can’t wait for more. I think if you’re a GOT fan then you’ll like this one.

Reading

Hands down my favorite book of the year was Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry. It is nearly 900 pages, but it is the most beautiful and complex storytelling you’ll read. I laughed and cried and cringed my way through. There were things I could never imagine living through, and then the next page would have me wishing I was right there with the Hat Creek Outfit. After reading it I started watching the mini series, but I couldn’t bring myself to watch the last part of it because I had the notion in my head of what the ending of the book was supposed to be like. And even though Robert Duvall could not have been a better Gus, I could not let the show influence my vision of how the ending of the book went. If you read one western in your life, please make it Lonesome Dove.

A very close second and a complete shift in content is another book I have to share with you, Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. This book follows Elizabeth Zott, a chemist in the 1960s, who hosts a cooking show that teaches women far more than cooking. It’s about her life and the struggles of being a woman in the world of science in a time when women “belonged in the home”. There’s also a dog in the book named Six-Thirty, and I’ve never loved a fictional animal more. What a delight of a book. Add it to your TBR list.

Wearing

This Goodwill blazer is one of my favorite wardrobe additions.
Boyfriend button down (Size Large) | High wasted jeans (could have sized down one) | Similar Sneakers | Similar Earrings (mine are black) | Loopy Phone Case (Plaid)

Blazers have taken over my wardrobe. I bought one several years ago and have worn it now and again, but as I started seeing them pop up in the fall fashion trends, I decided to jump on the bandwagon. I’ve gotten one locally, one from Amazon, and one from a thrift store. I think blazers are an easy way to elevate a basic look, add a sophisticated layer, and provide warmth without the bulk. I’m not sure I’ll be quitting these anytime soon.

Current favorite pumps in nude.
Jeans | Pumps (Color: Chestnut)

I was in desperate need of a pair of black pumps when I found a pair in Target and bought them on a whim. I fell in love. So in love that I bought them in a nude color, too. Are they the most well made pump you could own? Nope. But are they comfortable, the perfect, comfortable heel height, and affordable? Yep. I wear them all the time and with everything. I’ll report back if I get the courage to wear them all day teaching.

Another Target shoe I bought in black and then again in nude is this two-strap sandal. I also wear these with everything and do wear these all day at school. Those block heels can take you the distance! They are comfortable and have a cushiony foot bed. Love ’em.

I’ve reached borderline obsession status with my next favorite: Vivian Drew Earrings. I have slowly been collecting pieces from this brand for several years, but it turns out that when I send her Instagram posts over to Paul’s DMs, he buys them and gives them to me for birthdays and anniversaries and Christmases. Take that tip to the bank, girls! Works every time. 😉 The quality is excellent. The very first pair that I bought still looks brand new. Check out her site here and give her a follow on Instagram.

Beauty

I have been with Beautycounter for several years now, but I have never tried the Sheer Genius Conditioning Lipstick until October and wow, wow, wow! I decided to get the At the Red-y Lip Duo holiday set, and I’m just wondering why I never got this lipstick before. It really is conditioning and the color payoff is surprising for a sheer lipstick.

The other thing I’m still loving is the Countertime Line from Beautycounter. It’s the anti-aging line that uses Bakuchiol in place of Retinol. This makes it less harsh and safe for those who are pregnant and nursing. I truly love it.

Shop my faves

Here’s your one-stop-shop for all of my 2022 favorites.

Lonesome Dove Book
At the Red-y Lip Duo
Amazon The Drop White Blazer (fits TTS)
Vivian Drew Earrings (this style currently on sale)
Countertime Skincare Regimen
Target Nude Two-Strap Sandal (fits TTS/wearing color Chestnut)
Target Black Two-Strap Sandal (fits TTS)
Target Black Pump (fits TTS)
Target Nude Pump (fits TTS/wearing color Chestnut)
Lessons in Chemistry Book

Here’s to 2023!

More good music. More interesting books. More entertaining television. More affordable fashion. More safer beauty. More church. More Auburn football. More relaxing. More time with friends and loved ones. More God winks. More blessings.

Until next time.

Currently Loving- October 2017

CURRENTLY LOVING- OCTOBER 2017

Hi everyone! October is coming to a close and it’s officially holiday season! Hooray! It really is the most wonderful time of the year.

I have to take a minute to talk about that front stoop up there. Isn’t it dreamy? As much as I love the Christmas season and decor, this fall decor is giving me all the feels. It’s from one of my favorite bloggers, Alaina Kaczmarski of The Elizabeth Street Post. I’ll talk more about her later in this post.

But we’re not here to talk about the holidays, we’re here to talk about October. I’d like to share some of the things that came across my path that I loved during this gorgeous month.

Some Cooler Weather

Time for more of those outfits, amiright? About midway through the month it got a little chilly, left for a bit, then on the 28th there was that glorious cold front that came through. It was rainy and cold, and I stayed in and watched Hallmark Christmas movies all day while I worked on Beautycounter business and wrote several blog posts. It was one of those perfect fall days. Only thing that would have made it better was an unnecessary fire in a fireplace I don’t have. Ha! 🙂

I’m a Beautycounter Consultant

That brings me to my second favorite thing about October- Beautycounter. I’ve shared with you some of the products that I’d been using from them before, but this was the month that I signed on to become a consultant. I have a full post on why I joined that I’d love for you to read here. Here are some of my favorite products that I’ve been using from the very beginning of my journey with this wonderful company.

These were the original products that I started with from the brand, and I’ve not turned back. I love them so much, and they’re a safer option for your skin care routine. For more of my favorites read the original post here. You can also check out my right sidebar and choose the Safer Beauty tab to learn more. You can also visit my website with Beautycounter directly right here.

Tip Time

I was listening to Young House Love has a Podcast a while back, and Sherry was saying that one way they keep paper clutter out of their house was to take pictures on your phone of the pages that you like in a magazine and then upload them to a secret Pinterest board so that you don’t have a million magazines lying around your house. And I was like, duh!!! Why didn’t I think of that?! Thanks, Sherry! I just wanted to share that with y’all because it really is that easy! I got rid of SO MANY magazines because I did this and was able to pass the magazines along to friends and the local hospital waiting rooms.

Lighting

As always, I’m trying to find ways to improve my home and make it more “me”. Well, I’ve recently discovered the wonder of the world of lighting. Light fixtures are some of the most brilliant works of art out there. Although, I’m more of a traditionalist when it comes to lighting, there are some really fun and funky options that could totally make your space. Here’s a few that I really love.

Antique Whitewashed Wood Bead Chandelier- World Market

I’ve saved the best for last. The is a photo of one of my very favorite bloggers that lives in one of my very favorite homes I’ve ever seen. Her style is impeccable, and I find myself wanting to copy her decor every time I see a new photo of her home. Look at this chandelier. Look at her whole apartment! It’s seriously one of the most beautiful homes. Remember the front stoop at the top of this post? Same blogger. Her style…ah! I love it! Check out her full home tour here. Trust me, you want to! And then you’ll be mad at me because you’ll immediately want to change everything about your home because her home is perfection.

Music

Every morning when I have my quiet time I listen to instrumental praise music. That’s the name of the Pandora station I listen to, actually. It has introduced me to so many new artists that I wouldn’t have known because I typically don’t listen to instrumental music. But in the mornings with Jesus, it’s nice. This song stopped me in my tracks the first time I heard it, and it still does even though I’ve heard it probably 30 times. I posted about it on my Instagram a while back, but I’m going to share it again here. Have a listen, won’t you?

One more, and DON’T judge ok? I am a big fan of Leslie Odom Jr. He plays Aaron Burr in Hamilton and is starring in the upcoming Murder on the Orient Express. The man has a beautiful voice, and it’s very unique. Last year he came out with a Christmas album, but I didn’t get it for whatever reason. Well, this year he announced he’s re-releasing a deluxe edition of the album. And, well, I caved. And I’m so glad I did! It’s SO GOOD! It was worth the $10 on itunes and will be great to play when I put up the tree. I’m more of a Rat Pack Christmas kind of girl than a Mariah Carey Christmas kind of girl anyway, so Leslie Odom Jr. fits right in with what I like.

Countdown to Christmas

The only other thing I’m loving during October is the Hallmark Channel. The harvest movies were fantastic, of course, and October was the kick-off for Countdown to Christmas. Like I said, it’s the most wonderful time of the year!

I hope everyone has had a lovely October, and I wish you a very Happy November!

XO,

Elizabeth

Currently Loving-March 2017

Can it be April already? I feel like this has been the fastest year ever. In an effort to slow down and reflect on this past month and what I enjoyed, I’ve come up with a list of things that I would like to share with you. My hope is that these things bring some happiness into your life as well.

One thing I’ve recently discovered (and I know I’m a little late to this party) is Kari Jobe’s new album The Garden. If you’ve never had the pleasure of listening to this mega-talented woman sing, please go to YouTube and have a quick listen, then head over to iTunes and download The Garden or any of her other amazing music. I tend to listen to praise and worship music during nap time at school and one day I was scrolling through my usual list of instrumental praise music and decided I wanted to listen to some Kari. (Sidenote: Her Pandora station is pretty fantastic too.) There was a playlist for The Garden, so I decided to listen. I’m so glad I did. The song, “The Garden”, almost had me in tears. It’s so beautiful. It will bless your soul. Go listen!

Switching gears to beauty. I got Sarah Jessica Parker’s new perfume, Stash, for Christmas. I’m still loving it. It’s technically a unisex fragrance. I love it so much for myself, though, that I’d be intrigued to smell it on a man. There’s a warmth to it that I just love. I wear it day and night but like to spritz on a little extra when going out in the evening. It’s just so lovely. Stash is sold at Ulta and is available in a rollerball if you’d like to try it without committing to a whole bottle. I know fragrance is so individual, but if you like warmer scents, you might like this one.

Can we just talk about these for a second? Perhaps my favorite candy of all time. Let’s just say that I love them so much I’ve been known to say that these better be in Heaven when I get there.

This month brought the return of Designated Survivor. We recorded the show when it originally started but never got around to watching it. One night when our DVR was cleared of everything else that we watch, we pushed play and were hooked. The season premier was so great and last week’s episode!! Y’all!! Are you watching too? You need to go catch up if not!

Paul’s not a huge movie watcher, but if I can get a “guy movie” in his sights, he’s going to at least consider it. Cue Hacksaw Ridge. Mel Gibson may have a reputation of being a bit crazy, but the man can make a movie. It is a war movie with its fair share of gore, but the story was so beautiful. And one I had never heard before. It tells the story of Army Medic Desmond Doss and his heroic actions to save 75 of his fellow soldiers ALONE. He did all of this without firing a single weapon and was awarded a Medal of Honor. It was an inspiring story of standing up for what you believe in and not backing down even when the odds are tremendously stacked against you. It’s a must watch.

I’m a pretty avid reader, well, more so in the summer than during the school year, but from August through May I like to listen to audio books. This month I listened to The Girl in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware. Boy, was it a good one! I am not a scary movie person or a ghost story person. Not once in Louisiana did I want to go on one of those ghost tours in New Orleans or in St. Francisville. When I watched The Grudge in college, I was so thankful that my dorm roommate was not in town because I slept with the lights on for three nights. I do not do scary stuff. This book, though it had some scary parts, is a thriller which is slightly less scary to me. I can do thrillers most of the time. This one is about a woman who goes on a cruise and thinks she hears and sees something horrible, but when she tells the people in charge of the cruise, no one believes her. Everyone thinks she’s crazy…or do they? That’s all I can say because I don’t want to give anything away if you’re intrigued and want to read it. If this is your genre, you’ll like it. I did figure out the ending before it all unfolded, but that’s okay. I got to have that moment of victory in the last chapter when my suspicions were confirmed.

As a teacher I am so fortunate to get to still have a Spring Break. It was glorious to sleep in and be lazy. That’s me in PJs and slippers mid-morning.

I finished a series I was watching on Amazon called Z: The Beginning of Everything about Zelda Fitgerald. I didn’t know she was originally from Montgomery. Thought that was pretty cool. It was a fun show, and I love that it’s a period piece. I am a sucker for that 1920’s fashion. Zelda was a real spit-fire, and I kind of liked that about her.

I also got to go shopping with my mom to a new store (well, new to us) called At Home. Y’all, it was like Heaven. We had made our way around the store, though not all the way through, and I stopped and looked at my mom and said, “This is what Heaven is going to be like for me: home decor, Cadbury Mini Eggs, and Jesus.”

March also brought a reunion with some very special old friends. I have been friends with these people for nearly 20 years. They are the kind of friends that even though all four of us hadn’t been together in almost seven years, we fell right back into our pattern of easy conversation, jokes, and hilarity that may or may not have involved a belt that contracts your abs for you. We went around the circle talking about our current life situations including jobs, relationships, children, and even some crazy neighbors one of us has-I mean REALLY crazy. It was good for my soul to see these people that feel like family, and I pray we get to do it again before seven more years passes us by.

Well, that’s what I’m loving this month. Have any of you also discovered some of my favorites from March? Do you have some great music, books, beauty items, or T.V. shows you are loving lately? Tell me about them in the comments. I hope March was great to you and here’s to an even better April.