Friday Thoughts: Super Speed Style
Today’s Friday Thoughts post is super speedy! But kind of fun. And a little random. ๐
I literally always have a thousand things I want to tell you guys about (disclaimer: most of these things fall into the category of “very little substance”). Today I picked *just* ten of them to share.
For the recommendations, none of these are sponsored. Just little things I’ve bought and loved and feel like the world needs to know about. Some of the links below are affiliate links for products I’ve bought myself on Amazon, but as always, feel free to shop around for the best deal.
1. Best Lip Stuff Ever.
My friend, Nicole, gave me this amazing lip stuff {aff. link} (chapstick? balm? notreallysure) a while ago, and I have used it daily since. I’m super particular about moisturizing chapstick-type lip products because most of them actually dry out my lips. This Lypsyl magic wonderness is a miracle product. I can’t recommend it highly enough.
2. Best Instagram Account to Follow.
I’m trying to seriously limit my time on social media, and I have been tempted over the years to give it up entirely, but there are a few accounts that keep me motivated to stay, and @sharonsaysso is at the tippity top of the list. She calls herself America’s Government Teacher, which might be a turn off if you’re thinking that leads to a dry and boring social media experience, but her account is extremely scintillating, fun, unbiased, a little random, and incredibly helpful (especially right now wading through all.the.politics.and.chaos.in.the.world).
I love her. She has no idea who I am, but I’d probably fall over in utter starstruck wonder if I ever met her in real life. I am really proud to call myself a #governerd. Any other governerds out there?
3. I Got Myself a New Kitchen Table.
And I love it so much that I’m beginning to enter the phase of life called: Crazy Kitchen Table Lady. I had nothing against my sturdy, resilient, garage sale find table that graced our kitchen for the last 10+ years, but on the side, I was always casually searching for an eventual replacement.
Our neighbors hosted an HOA meeting a few months ago and while everyone else was talking about fixing potholes on our road and nominating absent members for board spots and detailing how many miniature donkeys should be allowed per home lot, I was gazing longingly at the hosts’ kitchen table.
It was eventually hard to ignore my social awkwardness, so they kindly gave me the info for a local store (Impact Imports) that makes custom kitchen tables from huge slabs of wood (our table is made from monkey pod/parota).
Long story short, I went to Impact Imports rustic showroom, fell in love, convinced Brian it was the right thing to do (or rather, told him he didn’t really get a vote), and six weeks later, our new baby, er, I mean, kitchen table was delivered. They were able to use the top part of the slab to make two benches for one side of the table, and I grabbed the other chairs off Amazon (not the highest quality chairs, but totally functional right now).
4. Plant-Based Mosquito Repellent
You guys, the mosquitos are HORRENDOUS on our property this year. Like, full on swarming horrendous. I’m not above using the strong stuff when it’s needed, but being out with our animals several times a day means I like having a more natural alternative (if I’m being honest, it’s largely because I don’t want to smell like deet-infested mosquito repellent all day – even some natural sprays have the worst smell).
I have tried many, many plant-based or natural mosquito repellent sprays, and this one wins hands down {aff. link}. It works well for shorter periods of time (probably wouldn’t be the best for deep country hiking, but for 20-30 minute stints out in the pasture or going on walks, it’s great) and I can’t understate how awesome it is that the smell is hardly there.
On a sidenote, when we want more powerful coverage for hiking or camping or prolonged time outside, we use these mosquito wipes {aff. link}.
Also, last thing because I can’t believe mosquitos are getting this much attention in one of my blog posts, but we also keep this bug bite balm {aff. link} on hand and it relieves the itch from mosquito bites amazingly well (and keeps the younger kids, and ok me too, from kind of melting down about the itchy scratchy issues).
5. Sweet and Sour Candy for Life.
I cannot resist sweet and sour candy. Sour patch kids. Sweet and sour hi-chews. Give it all to me. The tangy and sweet combo is my undoing.
I also happen to really love Australian-style licorice (Wiley Wallaby is one of my favorite brands). When I spied this sweet and sour licorice {aff. link} in a tiny gas station in the wilds of Idaho on a road trip, I was intrigued.
And then I became absolutely obsessed. These little sweet and sour licorice drops are probably my favorite iteration of the sweet and sour candy trend ever. Be forewarned: they are completely irresistible. As in, I have ordered them in bulk and I still have no idea how they disappear so quickly.
6. Speaking of Snacks.
I would be a terrible friend if I didn’t also tell you about my other two favorite snacks. Dill pickle pretzels {aff. link}. And dark chocolate drizzled boomchickapop {aff. link}. Both of these are very worthy distractions in my life right now. And speaking of dill pickle flavors, these spicy dill pickle almonds {aff. link} are also fantastic.
6. Planners: A Very Serious Question.
I may have asked this before and can’t remember (also: too lazy to dig through old posts), BUT, what kind of planning system do you use? I am a hard core paper planner. And I get teased about it mercilessly from family and friends. I cannot convert to the inconvenience of electronic planning.
Now is probably the time to confess I also have a mini obsession with post-it notes and use them endlessly. I enjoy writing in my spiral bound paper planner, and I’m not sure I can give it up, but it has it’s downfalls, of course (doesn’t sync with my family’s calendars, not always convenient to schlep around with me wherever I go).
I’ve used many paper planners over the years. Erin Condren. Personal Planner. Made my own from a template my talented SIL shared with me on InDesign. And currently have Agendio. I’m picky about my paper planners – size, weekly layout, etc. Sigh. It’s a complicated life to be so tied to a paper planner, but I just can’t envision a world without my trusty sidekick planner.
I’m curious: How do you plan your life? Paper? Electronic? Fly by the seat of your pants?
7. PSA: Comfiest Dress in the World.
I can’t adequately describe how loungey and comfy and cute this dress is {aff. link}. Comes in a zillion color/pattern options. I have dark gray. Don’t overthink it. Sizing is generous. Also: IT HAS POCKETS. Need I say more?
8. Have You Seen?
I have heard so much about the K-drama Crash Landing On You. Have you watched it? I would like your opinions on whether it’s worth watching. Based on the subtitles, I wouldn’t be able to multi-task while watching, and that’s a serious concern. And by multi-task, I’m not talking about doing anything super ambitious – more like painting my toenails or filling out my paper planner. #nerdalert (If you have any other must-watch Netflix or Amazon Prime shows, comment below!)
9. Hatch.
Many moons ago I told you that I had been gifted a Hatch Restore alarm system for my birthday from Brian and the kids. Here’s the report several months later. I LOVE IT. My favorite setting is the gradual sunrise wake up as the light brightens on the clock so that I’m not jarred out of sleep by the harsh beeping I’ve experienced the last 40+ years of my life.
I’ve also dabbled in some of the meditations included in the app as I actually try to establish a reasonable bedtime routine, as opposed to attempting to get in bed as freakishly fast as possible when I realize I’ve stayed up way too late again. Anyway, I highly recommend it! It’s operable from an app on my phone, and I’m just warning you that it’s impossible to avoid going down the rabbit hole of wake up sound options. Like, there’s a gazillion variations of wind chimes, and that’s just the beginning.
I’m not affiliated with the company at all, but I really love the clock/alarm. My only complaint is that even on the lowest brightness setting, I feel like the numbers on the clock are a bit too bright in the dark of nighttime, but that doesn’t outweigh my love for everything else about it.
10. School Starts Next Week.
And I am in disbelief that I’ll have three high schoolers, one middle schooler, and one lingering elementary student. Who am I and how did I get here? Also, I feel old. Also, maybe I’ll start exercising again. Also, maybe not. Also, I’m making everyone pack their own lunches this year. Also, I did that last year, so no big change from this lazy mom.
Also, good luck to all you moms and dads and other support personnel for kids everywhere attacking a new school year, whether that be public, private, homeschool, virtual, or whatever. May the force be with us all.
Love your guts! Thanks for being here. I say it all the time, but I mean it: you have no idea how grateful I am for this little corner of the internet where we can hang out together.
152 Comments on “Friday Thoughts: Super Speed Style”
Re: comfiest dress in the world
– The back looks quite low, can you wear a regular bra with this?
It is pretty low – I wear a tank underneath.
Amen!!
I got on your website tonight, specifically to find the post where someone recommended “Crash Landing on You”! Oh. MY. Gosh!!!!!! My husband and I watched it together and it had us both in tears at the end. He always resists watching “chick flicks”, but once we got a few episodes in, we turned in to irresponsible adults, giving way to reckless abandon. It is so good. I have been telling everyone I can about it.
Yes, it does take a few episodes to get into, but it is so worth it. Watch it!!
I loved Crash Landing on You! Took me a few episodes to get into it but then I couldnโt get enough!ย
Amen! We finished it last week, and I almost want to watch the last episode again.
HIGHLY recommend Passion Planners! It’s all I’ve used the last 5+ years at work and any time I try to branch out, I regret it almost immediately. We use Outlook calendars at work for meetings/calls, which I colour code for ease of use, but everything gets transferred to my paper planner because I have terrible luck with technology and am scared to lose it LOL
Quick question? The dress is adorable, but does it work with โGsโ I was wondering if the back was too low or the slits too high? Iโm looking for a cute comfy church dress and this looks like it would work if my undies arenโt hanging out.
Hey Amber, the dress has an open back, but I wear a lightweight tank with it and it works fine (although may not be great if you don’t like layers ๐
Paper planner all the way ! ย I work nights and need to see my whole month laid out right in one place. ย ย ย Absolutely love the new kitchen table !!! ย ย ย
Oh thank you for this post! Mosquitos are terrible this year. My grandaughter gets bit no matter what time of day it is and they make her swell. I do not like anything with DEET especially to use on children and you are correct, the smell is gross.Also, glad to know about a new lip balm. I have used Burt’s Bees Wild Cherry forever! It is always good to have another avenue. Your new table is so inviting and just beautiful.
Hunt for the Wilderpeople on Netflix. You will absolutely, definitely love it (and itโs family friendly). Youโre the best, Mel!ย
You should try Made On products. They are made with shea butter, coconut oil and beeswax. They even have lip balm with a little color too. Very good natural products.
Liked the post! Good luck with school too
You should look into Made On products. They are made with shea butter, coconut oil and beeswax. There is lip balm, hard lotion, mosquito bar, etc. they are really good
AHEM SPEAKING OF K DRAMASย
i happen to love Cheese in the Trap and Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Jooย
Family friendly and my husband, who rolls his eyes at the mere idea of korean anything entertainment, laughed so much at Cheese in the Trap.ย
highly recommend ๐ย
Also thanks for the licorice recommendation…my husband will LOVE that!!ย
“I love her. She has no idea who I am, but Iโd probably fall over in utter starstruck wonder if I ever met her in real life.”
That is exactly how I feel about YOU Mel!! ๐
omg i agreeeeee mel is amazing
I dont think she knows how many families she has blessed and just how much she has blessed them.ย
Follow Governerd here! Signed up for the fall book club and so excited! Love Sharon says so. I think I found her because of you several months ago and your recommendation. Thanks for your other recommendations! Add the lib balm to my cart! Hope school goes well for you and yours!
Mel, I join your fanclub – thank you for being so wonderful. I recently watched โThe English Gameโ series and was smitten. A+ if youโd like to check it out! โค๏ธ
Total paper planner all the way. I like to open up my datebook and see what is going on for the whole month at a glance. Don’t like little view on phone calendar so I never use it. I’m a caregiver and things change often. I don’t want to mess with electronics. Love my rolling white out! I don’t like how electronics are depended on so much. I use the Office Depot Weekly/Monthly Academic Planner. Same one for years now.
Oooh I somehow missed your Friday post so it was just like a tiny surprise present when I finally spied it today! Lip balm stuff…. Ain’t that the best? I love when other people love the things I love. Um, planners. I’ve never used one but when I see a Lisa Frank notebook or planner it almost makes me want to start. (I never got one as a girl and clearly I’m not over it.) Also, good luck with school… Also, I think I’ll copy you and make my kids make their own lunches.
If there were DEET perfume I would wear it every day of my life if it meant Iโd never see a mosquito bite. Iโve wondered about just putting in my water supply every summer after monsoons. My husband calls me his mosquito repellent. That is the end of my sad story. Moving on. Thanks for a fun post, as always. Cheers from sunny AZ. Theresaย
I am such a paper planner person. After 2 years of trying to go paper free and then giving in partway through the year and buying a paper planner, Iโve decided to just embrace being a paper person. But it is annoying to be part digital and part paper. Most events are marked digitally ย first and then I write down in my planner at the beginning of each week. Not the most ideal, but I love having a place to write my thoughts and to do list. Iโve used the thriving in motherhood planner the last year and a half and I love it!ย
Thank you for all the suggestions! My alarm clock was way too bright, too, and it drove me nuts. Found this cling film and it’s perfect now. ๐
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006R0VWSG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
My daughter and I watched the Crash Landing On You. We liked it. Itโs a little cheesy, but what Kdrama isnโt? Anyway you can look away and work on things a bit and not have to follow every subtitle, but not for long. You will miss key points and foreshadowing. Also some of the charactersโ subtle jokes that make them endearing will be missed. Be prepared to be sucked in. Each episode is long so itโs a commitment. ๐
I too am a proud #governerd! And I am a proud Franklin Covey planner girl – I have my planner sitting on my counter in the kitchen where I see it all the time. I also use the iCal which I share with my husband so we can see each other’s schedules. Occasionally I forget to put an event in both places, but for the most part, it works for me and has been for years ๐ We’ve had such a busy summer I am really looking forward to school starting so that I can just focus on my life, rather than keeping track of everyone all day, every day, ha-ha. Good luck to you with your 3 high schoolers – yikes! ๐ Oh, and the table is beautiful – it’s art and function in one!
I also love Sharon Says So! I heard about her from Emily Ley, whose company Simplified makes my favorite planner and other great organizational items. I think you would love her planners, and they have an academic year planner that starts right now, so you donโt have to wait until January.ย
I remember when Cam was born! I can’t believe I’ve been following you so long!!! What a joy to watch your family grow!
That may be the most beautiful kitchen table that I have ever seen. Wow.
Oh Mel, you are my soul sister! I think I feel about you the way you feel about @sharonsayso:) I came here today for your whole wheat bread recipe and got side tracked adding all of these things to my Amazon wish list. I too am extremely picky about planners. I recently got a Legend planner for the realm of re-working my life and goals. It is intense at first but I love it!
I organize my life by my google calendar. I cannot live without it. It is where I record my exercise (or lack thereof), my meditation and yoga practice and I even put “what’s for dinner” on it so I’m not repeating (I have a husband who likes maybe a dozen things so this lover of food, recipes and cooking has some angst going on. lol) And yes, it has reminders capability on the google calendar app NOT on the web-based calendar. You can thank me later LOL
As far as school goes, I am thanking the Lord above that I am not doing that race anymore. Yes, I was sad when my kids grew up but I do not miss the running around and expense of the school prep!
P.S. Thanks for the info on the plant-based mosquito repellent. I have been using https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M8GFPXG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
and it works very well.
Yes! Yes! Yes! Watch Crash Landing on You!!!
It was the first Kdrama I watched. I was hesitant about the subtitles at first but got used to it very quickly.
I’ve watched several Kdramas since. Some are very good, and some are not–it’s a huge genre–but Crash Landing is my favorite!
Love your random thoughts, Mel!! I can relate to some – can’t wait to try the lip balm recommendation. I can’t seem to find the right fit for me in that realm.
As far as planners, I keep 2 – redundant, but it works for our family. We use Cozi electronic calendar to keep everybody on the same page for activities. Everybody in our family has access to it, so they can’t ask me when something is. But I personally use a paper/spiral-bound one too from “Blessed Is She” for more details I need to keep for myself. So I do double-enter, but it’s worth the small amount of duplication to keep the questions at bay!
Mel, I love you. That is all.
Yay, fellow Governerd here!! Sharon is the *best*, and I feel like if you did a cooking video with her it might just break the internet. (I have zero idea if she cooks, but she is hilarious aside from being informative, and you are as well, just in different realms.) Your kitchen table is gorgeous!! I’m off to order candy I never knew I needed! ๐
A BIG thank you for introducing me to SharonSaySo a few months ago!!! She has absolutely changed the way I think and feel about politics. She is an absolute Godsend.ย
The K-drama โStart-Upโ on Netflix was so so good too. It was clean and just the kind of chick-flick this mom-of-all-boys needed!!
Love your blog!! Thanks for being here Mel!!
Governerds unite! Thanks for sharing your random thoughts! Excited to watch the Netflix recommendation and we have had the worst mosquitos this year too! Going to try those stickers someone mentioned in the comments. I have a clock similar to the hatch – they are pretty sweet. Thanks for making me laugh and all you put into your blog. Good luck with school and thanks for the catch up โchatโ. ๐
Crash landing on you is AMAZING!!! It was so fun to watch- it is definitely worth watching/reading! ย Just do it, you wonโt regret it!ย
Crash Landing is worth EVERY minute of staring at the TV and reading each word. It is impossible not to LOVE.
Hey Mel! Thanks for the recommendations, particularly the sour candy. We LOVE sour candy and haven’t tried those yet. Also, your kids are getting so big and grown up! I hardly recognize them. Hugs to you and Brian!
Mel, you are just a really welcome dose of positivity and light. But when I hop onto your site for a quick recipe search, I wind up diving in to whatever your latest post is and spending more time here than planned. Kinda like Target!
Thank you ffor your authenticity and God bless you and your family.
Governerds Unite!ย
Iโm a hybrid planner. I put everything in my phone (Google calendar so my apple works with hubbyโs Android), with alarms and reminders so I donโt forget to kids where they need to be. But I also just use dot notebooks from amazon and draw a weekly planner every Sunday to remember what I need to do each week. So kind of bullet journal, but not nearly as fancy or involved. Something about having alas and writing it down means I donโt forget! Also I have the grocery list and meal plan so kids know where to look for โwhatโs for dinnerโ and when they need something from the store
Mosquito repellant: you should try these stickers. You stick them on your skin or clothes. They actually WORK. They were recommended to me by my missionary neighbors who spend half the year in mosquito-infested areas of India. I love them because there’s no spray involved!
https://www.amazon.com/Simple-Natural-Products-Mosquito-Repellent/dp/B06XJT54LX/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=mosquito+repellent+stickers&qid=1629043112&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFMMUkwSURBNDNZVUsmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTA2MzgyMDExT1U3MUNFRjVYNDE5JmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA1NjM1MTVQRVdPR0xHOERXQzUmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl
I am currently watching crash landing on you!! The first episode is set up, and still good, but just hang on! Give it to episode 2 to start picking up.ย
I try to be aware of how I feel watching shows, some stress me out too much (why canโt so and so just get back together with their love!!!) and this is truly a show that makes me happier for having watched it. I am only in episode 7 and I am SO glad I have this to look forward to at night!!ย
I am a fridge calendar gal. My work schedule is electronic but has kids day appointments also in there. Otherwise, we live by the fridge! Color coded by person/event ๐ simple and we are always lingering there anyways to eat! Wet erase marker to no children erasing items with hungry hands by mistakeย
govenerd! Love the blog and recs. Been debating the Hatch, this may push me over the edge
I am 30, consider myself to be pretty normal, and absolutely loved Crash Landing on You! I 100% recommend, it was so funny and fun to watch. The first episode is the worst one, but needed to set the stage.ย
Have you looked into golden coil planners? Completely customizable and pretty.
I saw in comments from the last Friday thoughts posted “All Creatures Great and Small” recommended. It’s a Masterpiece Theatre production you can watch on AmazonPrime. I’m going reiterate what the last person said–it’s a must watch! Sweet, clean, family friendly, and in English so you can still multitask lol. It’s about a young man who wants to be a veterinarian in rural England in the 1930s.
Yes “All Creatures Great and Small” on PBS is a must watch! The books it is based off are amazing too!
Ok- planners. I have one I like from Target . And I do a hybrid of paper/electronic. I put appointments and family type things in my phone which syncs to family calendars, and Iโll put it in my planner also which I usually use to try to structure my day and get stuff done. Also, on Sunday evenings I try to plan my week and make sure important appointments are showing up both placesย
I loved Crash Landing on You, and as others have said, itโs definitely hard to step out of the multitasking mindset, but once I did, it was a nice respite from the feeling that I canโt just take time to enjoy something with single focus. Itโs good to be reminded sometimes! That being said, Vincenzo is another good k drama but it has dubbing (not as good as CLOY but entertaining).
I love SharonSaysSo! She’s one of my favorites. I think I’m adding her to my “people, living or dead, you’d pick to have dinner with” list. Yay for #Governerds!
Your table is beautiful!
Those pickle pretzels and chocolate popcorn sound amazing.
I’m a lazy calendar-on-my-phone person. Whenever I’ve thought I could be a paper planner, I end up with a blank planner.
We start school in less than three weeks, and two days ago someone drove a CAR through the front doors of the high school to the other end of the building. So… I think school is starting in less than three weeks? Not sure!
I’ve heard great things about that show, but I don’t have netflix! If you watch it and like it, please report back! I’m really curious.
Our family uses the Cozy app. It has a family calendar, to do list and shopping list. We have 2 older children who drive so the shared app is great. Anyone that goes to the store will check the list, which I have sorted by regular grocery store or Costco/Sams or Target.
Also, you can have several to do lists and I save lists here for packing (for a vacation), camping, and meals to make (and the website I found them on). Anytime we go on vacation or camping and realize we should have brought a specific item, we add it to the list for next time. Also, the kids know if they use the last of an item, they need to add it to the list.
I love this app!! Love your website also!
I am super intrigued with the lip stuff you posted about because I seem to have the same problem.ย
I am a paper planner gal myself and I have been using the intheleafytreetops planner for the last four years and feel lost without it. The price has gone up in the last year or so, but it keeps my brain together. It also has the option to have Latter-day Saint content if you want that too. You can check out what it looks like with the different options online.ย
I feel you with the getting older. My oldest graduated last year and is getting ready for a mission the end of November. Not sure how to process this new phase coming up. At least I still have a one-year-old and other ages up to him, but it changes all the dynamics of our family thinking of him not being around. Of course we are excited for him, but definitely mixed feelings. Love your guts!
Yes to Crash Landing!!! ย Best, cleanest, cutest series Iโve seen in a long time! ย And Iโve gotten really good at blindly folding my laundry .
Love Crash Landing! It’s totally worth it. Korean dramas are my absolute favorite, but they are a commitment because of the subtitles. I love that each show is only one season, they’re like the perfect mix of movie/ t.v. show. Those candies look delicious and I’m totally on the hunt for them now. We started school this past week and with four kids from elementary to high school and being a fifth grade teacher, I’m absolutely exhausted! Wishing your family a great school year!
From one die hard paper planner to another, you need to check out Planner Pads at http://www.plannerpads.com. A professional organizer recommended them to me 10+ years ago, and I’ve been a faithful user ever since. Their methods and “funnel system” are perfect for lovers of post-it notes, allowing you to make lists above and then assigning tasks into a weekly schedule below.
I always get the executive sprial-bound size, which is about the same size as a standard piece of paper. Not the prettiest planner around, but the perfect functionality makes up for it!
I watched a couple
If episodes of crash landing into
You, but the inability to multitask and watch is why I donโtย
Quick question? The dress is adorable, but does it work with “Gs” I was wondering if the back was too low or the slits too high? I’m looking for a cute comfy church dress and this looks like it would work if my undies aren’t hanging out.
Yes, you need to watch Crash Landing on You! I mean, it has its cheese. But itโs so sweet and clean. Is it weird that I get sad when I finish a show like that, because I miss the experience of watching it? Anyway, just yes. And if you do, please share how you like it! Iโll be anxiously waiting Also, I was concerned about not being able to multi-task, but itโs worth it, and I got used to reading subtitles really quickly!
I use a paper planner from a Canadian book store chain, plus a More Time Moms wall calendar. ย Each member of the family has their own colour of flair pen (Iโm a teacher, and Iโm obsessed with these pens!). Weโve got 2 1/2 more weeks until school restarts hereโฆ not looking forward to that insanity! ย Thanks for another great Friday post!
My husband used to always tease me about watching Korean shows. I convinced him to watch one episode of “Crash Landing on You” and he totally got sucked in and watched the whole series with me. It is tricky because you can’t multi task, but totally worth it!
Hi! Fellow governerd here! I also canโt give up my paper planner and buy post it notes in bulk. I thoroughly enjoyed Crash Landing on You, but confess that I like Start Up and True Beauty more. Trigger warning for True Beauty, though. But itโs amazing. Kdramas are full of heart, humor, and will tug at your heartstrings. I love them! โค๏ธ ย It doesnโt take very long to completely forget that youโre reading subtitles and find yourself turning up the volume when you canโt read them fast enough. ย
Crash Landing is so good! The first episode is a little slow, but after that I was hooked. It was also my gateway into k-dramas and now Iโm addicted. Yes, you canโt multitask while reading subtitles, but the quality of so many of the shows is great and they are generally a lot cleaner than American shows in regards to language and sexual content. I also recommend Law School and Hospital Playlist – both on Netflix right now.
Fellow Governerd here!!! And yes totally try Crash Landing! And after you get drawn down the kdrama rabbit hole and get used to slo-mo montages with musicโฆlet your readers know! It sounds like thereโs lots of us that can recommend more shows!ย
Yes to Sharon Says So and to paper planners.
I can’t live without my Planner Pads in the Seasons theme. If you are a list maker you need one. Do the bigger size, you won’t regret it!
I love the Amy Knapp spiral planner. It is formatted just like I need.ย
The dress you put on- itโs backless- is that the one you like?
Thanks for your thoughts!
Hey Sarah, I should have added a note to the post that I throw on a tank underneath.
I love Planner Pads and have used them for 10+ years! I wish they did the Seasons pattern in the bigger sizes. I love the Executive size because I can stick regular-sized paper in the planner and have more room for lists.
Love Sharon! #governerds!!!ย
I just love your posts. So refreshing and they make me laugh. And I mean that in the kindest way.ย
MEL! Get yourself to a staples right this very instant and get yourself an ARC planner (Martha Stewart makes some super cute ones in the same style). It is a completely customizable planner with removable pages. I buy my yearly calendar on Etsy for like $3 and print at home on card stock and it holds up like a CHAMP. Years ago I bought a menu planner the same way and still just print fresh sheets when i need some. I have a sewing section, a Christmas section, a garden section and my very first page is called โbrain dumpโ. Thinking about something random that doesnโt need to be taking up space now? Brain dump. 100x a day. My kids call it โmoms other bibleโ. I cannot explain to you the value I have found in setting up my own system. It took me a few months to find my groove and Iโm 5+ years in and my only further investment is more paper and the hole punch. Enjoy!!
Feeling lame bc I already commented — oh well!!
A show that we really liked is “The Crew” on Netflix. If you like Kevin James then you’ll probably like it. He’s the guy in “Hitch” and “King of Queens.” It’s pretty clean and funny.
Someone else already mentioned The Incredible Dr Pol on Disney Plus… I’m not really an animal person but somehow got addicted to it. Our family watched all seven seasons!
I am a governerd too -Governerds unite! I absolutely loved Crash landing on you. It was quite the time investment but it’s worth it! I binged it when I was sick and it took me 3 days of nonstop watching. I will say though that it propelled me into an obsession with Kdramas. I’m watching the Start Up right now. Also, I’m a paper planner girl but I keep important dates in my Google calendar so it sends me push reminders on my phone and watch.
Highly recommend CLOY and Whatโs Wrong With Secretary Kim if you like romantic comedies. ย Also recommend Goblin and Hwarang. Hwarang is the first K-drama I ever watched and I was so entranced by the costumes, sets, storyline, and overall โforeignessโ of the culture. ย The older kids will like Strong Woman Do Bong Soon, but itโs not for young kids.ย
I only watch K-dramas now. They are so much more wholesome than American shows.ย
Crash Landing on You is the best series I have seen in years ย Highly recommend!ย
Amen!!
This is a little bit about exercise…..sort of….. in January, we bought a Teeter Inversion table. My husband has back issues, but I just love it because it makes you feel amazing! I use it every day for about 4 minutes at a time, probably 2-5 times per day, depending on whatever else is happening. It is better than exercising, (although I do that too, because I’m 54 and my cookie habit is enlarging my butt). You have to work into it because if you try to flip all the way on day one it will freak your body out. Check it out, they are high quality, easy to assemble and surprisingly affordable. Most of all, it will change your life. I’m serious, my brain calms down and I feel like a new person. Sorry if this is a weird comment, I just want everyone to own one and feel good, maybe people will calm down and get a grip if they feel better.ย
I bought this tape a while ago to put over some clock/cd player displays in my kidsโ rooms that were waaay too bright. It works wonders!
Transparent Vinyl Tape with… https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MUG9K6R?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Also!
Love love love your table. Itโs seriously so gorgeous. Do they ship??
I need a table like that in my next houseโฆ
And, Iโve been canning some this last week. Iโd love to see some info on pressure canning or recipes.ย
Iโm doing green beans (first time pressure canning) and today Iโm going to do some jalapeรฑo jelly! My plant has been growing crazy!
I added several of these links to my cart. Itโs just so easy to โadd to cartโ.ย
That dress has me all sorts of excited. I looooove easy dresses like that and live in them.ย
My oldest starts middle school this year, and I feel similar to you, just one school lower.ย
My kids are all growing up and it feels weird. Iโm so excited for her to experience middle school, but Iโm also terrified for all of us. Sheโs such a good kidโฆ but middle school is such a new experience.ย
Also, totally love Sharon! Her podcast is lots of fun and my oldest likes it too.ย
Have you taken her class she offers? I think I want to take itโฆ
Yes watch Crash Landing!!! Takes a couple episodes to get into it but it’s so fun. My favorite K drama on Netflix is Start Up. Please watch it!!
Can I post multiple comments saying that Crash Landing On You is totally worth the time investment? Cause it is. ย Love, a fellow governerd.ย
Iโm a huge Sharonsaysso fan and proud to be a governerd! Iโm totally trying the chapstick you recommended because Iโve yet to find one I truly love. Also, paper planning all the way and still looking for the perfect one. I love your Friday thoughts posts! Canโt believe youโll have three high schoolers! Iโve been around a while I guess, because I remember when they were not so old. Iโll have one high schooler, one middle schooler, and one in elementary.
I LOVED Crash Landing On You! It takes a little bit to get into it (like a couple episodes), but it was cute, sweet and a good story of friendship in unlikely places. It has its oddities because there may be some cultural things that are unfamiliar, but overall I enjoyed watching it.
I use a dry erase board on the side of the fridge for my to do lists plus a big monthly calendar. Not portable at all so itโs a gamble when I make follow up doctor appointments at the office but itโs worked good for meย
Hello fellow Governerd! ย And you absolutely need to watch Crash Landing On You. It is a bummer that you canโt multitask while watching, but you will fall in love with certain characters. Itโs so good. Even my brother in-law got hooked and would sneak in episodes while my sister was sleeping because he had to know what happened next.
My absolute favorite bug repellent is the body butter lotion from NuSkin. ย It smells like vanilla cake. ย Iโve used it in Alaska and on camping trips galore and Iโve never had a mosquito bite where I put on the lotion. ย Iโve had bites through my leggings on each trip, so I know those buggers are around. ย But my exposed skin has been protected. ย Plus, itโs a pretty decent lotion on its own. ย
Absolutely LOVED Crash Landing on You. Give it a couple episodes but MAN so good. Hilarious, cute, uplifting, semi educational, through to provoking, definitely cheesy but 10/10 would recommend.ย
Hi, Mel! ย Love your guts, too. ย
You are right – the mosquitos in Idaho have been ridiculous this year. ย I had to buy anti-itch creme also. ย But one night, I was so exhausted that I mistook it for toothpaste and used it on my toothbrush. ย Not recommended. ย
I will recommend the app COZI for an electronic planner. ย It has calendar and list features I like, such as giving each household member a different color. ย It works for me, at least when my paper calendar is not nearby! ย
Thanks for your fun recommendations!
I am a huge Governerd. Even got the necklace. . Loving her podcast.ย
I also loved Crash Landing on You. It was my gateway show into K-dramas and now Iโm obsessed. ย I love The King Eternal Monarch, Live Up To Your Name and Itโs Ok To Not Be Ok. ย It is kind of a pain to not be able to multi-task while Iโm watching (Iโm a 911 dispatcher so multitasking is who I am) but it has become relaxing and rejuvenating to sit and put all my attention to these wonderful shows.ย
Please let us know if you take the plunge and watch.
Thanks for all you do and who you are. You are always a delight and your recipes are my go to.ย
What a joy to see you with your beautiful children!
I can’t believe how fast it goes and how big they get, yet grateful to be distracted by need for keeping lunch food in the fridge and by the illusion of organization with my paper planner ๐
(I’ve been using “Planner Pad” for several years now)
Wishing everyone bountiful strength and a sense of humor for these back to school days <3
I am a huge Governerd. Even got the necklace. . Loving her podcast.ย
I also loved Crash Landing on You. It was my gateway show into K-dramas and now Iโm obsessed. ย I love The King Eternal Monarch, Live Up To Your Name and Itโs Ok To Not Be Ok. ย It is kind of a pain to not be able to multi-task while Iโm watching (Iโm a 911 dispatcher so multitasking is who I am) but it has become relaxing and rejuvenating to sit and put all my attention to these wonderful shows.ย
Please let us know if you take the plunge and watch.
Thanks for all you do and who you are. You are always a delight and your recipes are my go to.ย
Yes, you must watch it!!! I pretty much wasted a whole week or so of my life binge watching that show, but I regret nothing!
Another Governerd here! Sharon makes me feel smarter! I’m an electronic calendar person these days since I can sync my work and personal calendars in one place. Love your kitchen table! My baby is going to be a senior this year. One more year and I will be All. By. Myself. That’s too weird to think about!
Crash Landing is worth it! I had a hard time not being able to multitask at first. I found myself wishing I had a baby to nurse or some reason to just sit and watchย a show. Once you get into the story you forget about โall the other stuffโ you could be doing at the same time. ย
First and foremost, Sharon is THE BEST. (As are you!) She is one of the main reasons Iโve maintained any sanity or peace through all the recent craziness! That and your Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies that my daughter is making on repeat.
As far as planners, this might be more of a supplement rather than a replacement for a paper planner, but I have a dry erase glassboard โcommand centerโ calendar from glassboardstudio.com and I love it. Itโs beautiful and everyone can see it so they know whatโs going on. Just yesterday, I had totally forgotten about violin lessons and my daughter reminded me! Because she saw it on our calendar! It works really well for us!
Love your Friday posts. ย I also love the comments so Iโm anxiously awaiting what everyone has to say.. By the way I am a paper planner all the way.
I’m a governerd! And I am so very grateful to you for introducing her to me. As others have said, she has brought so much clarity and calm to so many things. Plus she makes me laugh every day. You both are the best.
Intheleafytreetops planner are terrific all around planners and Korean Dramas are my latest go to. So cute and sweet. Mr. Sunshine is also terrific!!ย
Fellow governnerd!! Another reason we should be friends IRL!ย
Yes I am a Governerd!! I love Sharon Says So. I just started listening to her podcast too, good stuff!!
I am a paper planner all the way. I do put appointments on my phone just so I remember them till I get home to add to my paper planner. I could take my planner with me. My purse is certainly big enough. So many choices!!
I loved my Erin Condrin planners for several years. One year I went to plan the month of may. It was not their, it went straight to June. I contacted costumer service told them the situation. I thought they would laugh and send me a new planner. Nope they refused saying my 30 day guarantee was up. I sent a second plea to no avail. That was the last year for her!! Poor customer service. Do you make sure all the pages are in a planner/book before you use it????
We watch little TV but we have had fun with Dr Pol, a country vet show. So many interesting people and animal. Lately we have been watching the Dog Whisper. We donโt have dogs. Once our kids were raised we did not feel the need to own pets!! Been there done that.ย
Love you much Mel. You are my favorite virtual friend!!!
PAPER PLANNERS OR BUST! I was always on the hunt for *the best* planner and never really found one I love until this one! Personally, I have to have monthly AND weekly layouts. But I didn’t love spiral-bound because I never felt like I could get into the middle like I wanted; book-bound to the rescue!
Also yes and amen to post-its. This planner fits a standard size post it note with room on either side. I put my daily to-do’s on the right side of each day, using post-its to take meeting notes. (Color coded by meeting type/topic, of course.)
See? You’re not alone on your planner obsession. ๐
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BW88K8W/ref=twister_B094NFM7TF?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I love using planners from โin the leafy treetops.โ She just started selling a smaller size and weekly dashboard pages and Iโm loving it so much!! I will always use a spiral bound paper planner, I tried using the planner on my phone calendar and quickly missed seeing the whole week or month at once.
Paper planner. I blame it on my college years. But a paper planner will never lose my stuff and I just like it so there lolย
Thatโs the table of my dreams!ย
I loved Crash Landing on You. Very clean cute story. I was worried about the subtitles also, but after a bit I told myself that I deserved to have some time where I didnโt have to multitask. I could just sit and watch an episode. I think we have become so busy as a society that we have forgotten the simple joy of just focusing on one thing.ย
I would say go for it!ย
I started following Sharonsayso when you mentioned her last year before the election. She is great! And, youโre one of the good ones too.
Do watch it!!!!!! ย You are right that you canโt multi task. But it is so worth it!
Yep, another Governerd here! Sharon is the best, isnโt she?
Sorry for not being helpful but I use a monthly calendar for my planner needs. I need to see the entire month at a glance, (big picture), I just donโt have success going weekly.ย
Love your blog and your recipes, Mel. Your recipes are the only ones I have ever found online that I feel totally comfortable trying for the first time with guests. They are *that* amazing and reliable. ย
So thank you!
Good grief, so many thoughts! ย I LOVE Sharonsaysso!! Delighted about her podcast and canโt wait to listen more when the kids start school next week. And hallelujah for a more natural mosquito repellent. ย I have been using deet and then rinsing off after. ย Ick. ย But the itchy feeling of these big olโ bites gets me to use the big stuff.ย
Totally a paper planner girl. ย But actually just lists in a cheap spiral notebook, big or repeating events on my phone but not the smaller stuff. ย Lists galore on different pages. ย We affectionately call it my brain. ย All the stuff I donโt want to forget goes in there. ย Yes to post-itโs too!
Totally on the hunt for that sour candy. ย I LOVE sours. So much. Nerds rope! ย Looks so bad, but tastes so good. ย
And school and being old, amen and amen! I canโt wrap my head around TWO college girls when I swear Iโm still 30. ย And itโs time to revamp exercise, considering joining the local gym (never ever been a gym girl) to mix it up?? ย Mosquitos are making morning walks MUCH less inviting, but thatโs still my favorite to be outside.
Good luck next week!
Governerds for life!!! I think I started following Sharon because you talked about her around election time.ย
Thanks for all of the snack, alarm clock, dress recommendations. I’m not sure if you like the term “influencer” but you totally influence me and I love just about everything you recommend.
Hello! I’ve never posted before (that I can remember) but I’ve followed your blog for years and made a ton of your dessert recipes! You are a go-to blog for me whenever I need a recipe. I recently made your banana muffins and used them as cupcakes (I added pb frosting!) for my 1 year olds birthday party (I’m an older first time mom – don’t let his age fool you)! Delicious! I really enjoy reading your thoughts, getting your product recommendations, and your recipes. Thank you for all the time you spend on this site! It has made my life better! Oh and I bought spf swimwear leggings and long sleeved top because of your post! I’m the only one of my friends that swims fully clothed but honestly I think they are all interested in getting the same swimeear!
Loved Crash Landing On You. ย It is funny, sweet and a great story line. I liked not multitasking while watching it, it made me sit still and work for the treat to sit and watch it (if that makes sense). ย Totally worth it. ย Another good K drama is Romance is a Bonus Book
I absolutely LOVED Crash Landing on You!! It was probably the first show I truly just binged. So good.ย
First I have to say, paper planners for life! Iโve tried a few different electronic systems over the years but nothing keeps me organized like a good paper planner. Havenโt found one I swear by yet though.ย
Second, Crash Landing on You is a must watch! I had a hard time with the idea of not being able to multi task while watching but itโs so worth it! Itโs everything you want a show to be and more. All the feels!! You have to commit to two episodes before you make a decision because the first episode your getting use to the subtitles. Also, make sure you have time because once you get into it, you wonโt want to stop!
Thanks for all the fun suggestions! I love these posts! Good luck with back to school!!
Governerd over here! โโ๏ธ I dearly love SharonSaysSo. Sheโs just the best thing. Informative in a way you can totally understand, hilarious and adorable. Sheโs awesome. And so are you.
Love your thoughts and the comments! Also a paper planner friend and have to suggest bullet Journaling. Best thing ever, you make your own spreads. It is so flexible and customizable. Don’t just search bullet Journaling though it is easy to get overwhelmed by beautiful spreads. Search MINIMALIST bullet journal. Those are my people.
Iโm a planner. I have some digital, some paper. I LOVE my Passion Planner. I use the weekly, and I download the daily undated to use as well. Iโve been using them for years, and they are my favorite format.ย
The first episode of Crash Landing is rough but stick with it! ย Iโm not a TV watcher but it completely sucked me in and I missed it when it was over. ย The episodes are looooong but the characters are so sweet (and handsome) that Iโm thinking of watching it again. ย Itโs darling and sweet ย and SO CLEAN; I think youโd love it!
That tablet is stunning!! I love it! Miss your guts.
Crash landing on uou – ABSOLUTELY worth watching. Iโm pretty picky about what shows I like, and this one made my top three. No joke. Worth every minute and all the subtitles! Watch it!!!
You can turn off the clock at night! I can’t remember how but there’s a setting somewhere to do it. I love my Hatch. ๐
Yes watch Crash Landing on You! Itโs so worth reading the subtitles! My 11 year old boy even loved it!ย
Why hello fellow Governerd! Crash Landing On You. After the second episode I was hooked! I had the same multi-tasking concerns but I learned to enjoy it and actually really love K-Dramas now!
Proud Governerd here! I started following her the first time you mentioned her (beginning of the year maybe?) and she only had like 30,000 followers! I talk about her like sheโs my actual friend (kind of like I talk about you)!ย
Also, your kitchen table is quite possibly one of the most beautiful tables ever!
Love the Friday thoughts! So many good things.
-Total Governerd over here, too. I’ve been loving her new podcast!
-That kitchen table is out of this world! Love it so much!
-I’m a Plum Paper planner user and have been so happy with each planner I’ve gotten from there. I love how customizable they are so I can get exactly what works for me.
-Havent watched that K drama, but just recently started watched The Durrells on Corfu, after seeing a few shout outs on Instagram. Have you watched it? It’s delightful and so funny!
I follow Jordanpage on Instagram and she sells her own planners/budgeted/get life organized kind of stuff. Maybe check her out.ย
By the way, you have the best recipes around. Love all your stuff. Keep โem coming!ย
Hi Mel!
2) Fellow governed here! Sharon is really great at keeping me informed on topics I was either never interested in before or never knew even existed. #Svalbard
3) your new kitchen table is gorgeous!
5) I will gladly give you all the sour candy and especially all the licorice.ย
6) the dill pickle pretzels and choc drizzled kettle corn, on the other hand, I may fight you for those. Yum.
7) I use a digital calendar and a paper bullet journal. I would go back to a paper planner if it wasnโt so bulky. In fact, I just found the 2020 planner in a drawer that only had 3 pages filled out and none of those were the actual calendar portion.ย
9) Iโve been curious about Hatch. Thanks for your thoughts on it. I may try it this fall as the light changes here in the Treasure Valley. Not a fan of dark mornings.
10) praying for all the students and teachers and parents.ย
Thanks for all you do to shine light and humor and delicious recipes here. I appreciate you.
I started following Sharon says so months ago when you first recommended her. I am thankful all the time for that recommendation. She replaces my fears with faith and trust in our systems. She has revived my love for and trust in the constitution. She keeps me grounded. I didnโt know how much I was craving facts. So good. All your recommendations are gold.ย
Another Governerd here! I wish everyone in the country would follow Sharon. It’s easy to feel hopeless about how divided we are but listening to her talk about current events – and times in history when it’s been much worse – is the talk off the ledge I need sometimes. And being from MN originally I love when she breaks out the exaggerated accent. ๐
Also, thanks for the mosquito product recs! My husband got eaten alive last night when we went out to to watch the meteor shower because he didn’t want to smell like bug spray before bed (I didn’t either but miraculously only got 1-2 bites). It sounds like the botanical option is just what we would have needed!
Totally a fellow Governerd over here! Sharon is the best. Also, to keep my life organized I use a physical calendar with appts for the rest of the family to sew, a planner that I can write my day to day to do lists, and my phone to put in important dates and appts (shared calendar with my husband) so I can have reminder notifications. OCD anyone? Hahaha. Do you know the shop RadandHappy? She’s on IG and I LOVE her planners. She’s just about to release her latest ones for this year (many of which are undated so you can get them and use them anytime). They are awesome and not ridiculously expensive!
Governerd here! OF COURSE you are one too – it shouldn’t surprise me a big. Amazing people attract amazing people! ๐
Fellow governerd here! I sing the praises of @sharonsaysso to anyone who will listen! Also โCrash Landing on Youโ is totally worth watching. A very charming and engaging story! But no, you canโt multi-task or youโll miss whatโs happening because of the subtitles.
Yes! Fellow Governerd here! She’s brought so much peace to my life because I can rely on her for facts then be a critical thinker for myself.ย
The planning “system” (ha it’s just a planner) that I use are the kind from Michaels or Office Max. Just a spiral bound bound planner with a month at a glance where I write everything, but also has the weeks behind each month for plenty of notes and things to do. So easy to then keep as a “journal” to remember everything. Way easy to store, compact, and tidy. Plus its cute and makes me happy to look at. And because I misplace things sometimes this is one I never lose because it’s the size of a notebook.
Governerd here. ย I love Sharon and love listening to her podcast. ย Thanks for sharing all your Friday thoughts. ย I am intrigued be the alarm clock. ย Waking up to beeping or ringing makes me cranky. Also am looking forward to trying the fish taco recipe. ย
Crash Landing On You was our first Kdrama and it was the BEST, I mean the BEST show ever! Because of this show, my husband and I are now Kdrama addicts! And yes, that means we need an intervention since we are on our 20th Kdrama. Nothing quite lives up to Crash Landing On You, but thatโs ok.ย
I promise you and family will LOVE Crash Landing On You! Your heart will often ache, tears will flow, but itโs worth it, I promise !
Would love to hear more Kdrama recommendations! ๐
The King Eternal Monarch has taken top spot for me. It is so good. I still love Crash Landing too.
Awesome, thank you! We will check it out.
Hello fellow Governerd! Sharon is literally the best!
I love the idea of paper planners, but can’t make it work. I use my calendar on my phone and a giant wall calendar. But Jordan Page makes a Productivity Planner that might work for you. She has printables on her website: https://funcheaporfree.com/productivity-planner-digital-download/
That table is gorgeous! We need a bigger table but don’t have the space for a bigger table. My family of 7 is sitting a table meant for 6. So sad. What I need to do is order a bench to replace two of the chairs so I can squeeze 3 of the 5 children on it.
We start school next week and I’m stressing over lunches. My kids are just weird about what they will and won’t eat and I feel like I haven’t figured out good options for them. Maybe I’ll figure it out this year.
Crash landing on you is FOR SURE worth it. It is so good.ย
Governerd here…Sharon is amazing, she has my heart and attention! You do too, btw! This is a fun list of thoughts and you’ve given me a couple Christmas gift ideas, mostly the food. ๐
Hi Mel! That’s a beautiful table. Yes, #governerdsunite! I use an ARC planner (from Staples originally) which is a disc-bound system and customize/print my own pages. It sounds like you’ve dabbled with customizable templates before but the beauty of the ARC is that you buy a hole puncher and can stick any 1/2 size (I think it’s A5) sheet in and out of there. It works for my planner brain because I’m always tweaking the layout and also just have a bunch of plain pages of notes filed in there. Best wishes with the start of the new school year!
Fellow Governerd here! Sharon is THE BEST! and now that I know you love her Iโm going to start campaigning for you to be on her podcast! That would be amazing!! So start prepping ย
Love your table! It is swoon-worthy. We shouldn’t be that complicated with just one kiddo, but she started high school, so the current planner situation has got to get an upgrade to keep up – hoping to see suggestions here! Wishing yours a great school year!
Lip balm is already ordered! ย The table is absolutely gorgeous! ย I wish you would post a few more pictures of it from different angles- could you? would you?. Enjoy the weekend everyone!
I love recommendations on your blog. ย I donโt know how many games, kitchen gadgets, and gift ideas Iโve ordered after reading your suggestions. ย Thanks! ย
OKAY– Im picky about chapstick too!! Idk why but a few years ago out of no where my lips that rarely need chapstick were SO CHAPPED. Like I legit thought I had skin cancer of the lips. I’ll skip some details but I did a lot of research about chapstick and found out most Chapsticks don’t heal or moisturize, but lanolin does. On some chapstick forum (….. Lame , I know) I found a recommendation for this stuff , and I started using it and love it!!
It’s Australian Golden Lanolin , I buy the lip balm form (I’ve tried the chapstick tubes and it’s good but I prefer the balm). It’s great – I don’t feel like I have to use it quite as often as chapstick and typically just use it right before bed , but more often in the dead of winter. One downside, it gets melty in hot weather so don’t keep it in your purse in the summer! It’s $5.90 + shipping on Amazon . Sorry for the novel haha
Yes yes yes to Crash Landing on You. I’m picky about shows (have to be clean too) and this one ticks all the boxes – romance, action, drama, suspense, comedy! And such lovable characters. I bet your teens would really enjoy it as well. I’ve watched it more than once and I’ve never done that for a show before. Highly recommend!
Thanks for the bug balm rec. I’m ordering it for my kids now. They don’t handle mosquito bites well!
Happy Friday Mel! Another thing we have in common – sweet and sour candy! This brand is now in my amazon cart – thanks for the recommendation! ๐