Welcome to this week’s edition of Friday Thoughts! While life often feels like a whirlwind of responsibilities and never-ending to-do lists, it’s always fun to pause and share a few delightful discoveries. Today, I’m thrilled to bring you a super-speedy yet incredibly fun and somewhat random collection of ten things I’ve recently fallen in love with or found immensely useful. Consider this your curated dose of inspiration and practical finds to brighten your weekend and streamline your week.
I genuinely have a never-ending list of little gems I want to tell you about, most of which, admittedly, are pure joy with very little deep substance – but isn’t that what makes life charming? From everyday essentials to unexpected delights, these are the items and experiences that have genuinely enhanced my routine. And because transparency is key, please know that none of these recommendations are sponsored endorsements. These are simply things I’ve purchased, tried, loved, and believe the world absolutely needs to know about. Some of the links provided are Amazon affiliate links for products I’ve bought myself, but as always, I encourage you to shop around for the best deals that suit your needs.
So, settle in, grab a beverage, and prepare to discover a few new favorites that might just become essential parts of your own life!
1. The Ultimate Lip Savior: Best Lip Balm Ever!
Finding the perfect lip balm can often feel like an endless quest, especially if you’re as particular as I am. Many products promise hydration but end up leaving my lips feeling drier than before. That’s why I’m ecstatic to rave about this amazing lip product that my friend Nicole introduced me to what feels like ages ago. Since that day, it has earned a permanent spot in my daily routine. This isn’t just any chapstick or balm; it’s a true miracle worker for dry, chapped lips.
What makes Lypsyl so exceptional? It delivers deep, lasting moisture without any greasy residue, and crucially, it doesn’t create that irritating cycle of dryness that many other lip products seem to perpetuate. My lips feel genuinely nourished, soft, and healthy throughout the day, even in the harshest weather conditions. If you’ve struggled with finding a lip care product that truly lives up to its promises, look no further. I cannot recommend this Lypsyl magic wonderness highly enough – it’s a game-changer for anyone seeking consistent, reliable lip hydration.
2. Elevate Your Feed: The Must-Follow Instagram Account
In an age where social media can often feel overwhelming and divisive, I’ve made a conscious effort to limit my screen time. There have been moments I’ve considered abandoning it entirely. However, a select few accounts consistently provide genuine value and entertainment, making my digital presence worthwhile. At the very pinnacle of this exclusive list is @sharonsaysso. She proudly labels herself “America’s Government Teacher,” a title that might, at first glance, suggest a dry or unengaging experience.
But let me assure you, Sharon’s account is anything but boring. It’s incredibly scintillating, packed with fun, refreshingly unbiased insights, and a delightful touch of randomness. In a world often steeped in political chaos and conflicting narratives, her content serves as an incredibly helpful and grounding resource. She demystifies complex governmental processes, offers clear explanations of current events, and does it all with an infectious wit and approachable demeanor.
I find myself utterly captivated by her ability to distill intricate topics into easily digestible and highly entertaining posts. I’m a huge fan, and although she has no idea who I am, I’d undoubtedly be completely starstruck if I ever had the chance to meet her in person. I proudly embrace the title of a #governerd, and I’m always keen to connect with others who share this passion for understanding our world better. Are there any other governerds out there who follow Sharon Says So? Share your thoughts!
3. A New Centerpiece: My Beloved Custom Kitchen Table
The arrival of our new kitchen table has officially ushered me into a new phase of life: “Crazy Kitchen Table Lady.” For over a decade, our kitchen was anchored by a sturdy, resilient, and much-loved garage sale find. While it served us admirably and endured countless family meals and projects, I always harbored a secret desire for an upgrade, casually browsing for that perfect eventual replacement.
The universe, it seems, has a wonderful way of presenting opportunities when you least expect them. A few months ago, while attending an HOA meeting at our neighbors’ house – where discussions revolved around road potholes, board nominations, and the crucial topic of miniature donkey allowances per home lot – my eyes were inexorably drawn to their stunning kitchen table. It was love at first sight.
Despite my inherent social awkwardness, my admiration for the table was too profound to ignore. Mercifully, our kind hosts provided me with the details of the local store, Impact Imports, renowned for crafting custom kitchen tables from magnificent, oversized slabs of wood. Our chosen table, a breathtaking piece made from monkey pod/parota wood, quickly became my obsession. After a visit to Impact Imports’ rustic showroom, where I instantly fell head over heels, I (lovingly) convinced Brian it was a necessary and sensible investment – or rather, informed him that his vote was largely ceremonial in this instance. Six weeks later, our magnificent new “baby” – I mean, kitchen table – was delivered. They even skillfully utilized a section of the slab to create two custom benches for one side of the table, perfectly complementing the other chairs I sourced from Amazon (functional for now, though not the highest quality). This table is more than just furniture; it’s a statement piece that brings warmth and character to our home.
4. Outdoor Essential: My Go-To Plant-Based Mosquito Repellent
This year, the mosquito situation on our property has reached truly horrendous levels. I’m talking full-on swarming, blood-thirsty hoards. While I’m not averse to using stronger, conventional repellents when absolutely necessary for intense situations, my daily interactions with our animals mean I prefer a more natural alternative for frequent use. Honestly, a huge part of this preference stems from my aversion to smelling like DEET-infested bug spray all day long – and surprisingly, even some “natural” sprays come with equally unpleasant, lingering odors.
My quest for an effective, pleasant-smelling plant-based mosquito repellent has been extensive, involving countless trials and errors. But after much searching, this particular one has emerged as the undisputed champion. It offers impressive protection for shorter stints outdoors – think 20-30 minute walks, tending to the garden, or quick trips to the pasture. While it might not be the top choice for deep country hiking or prolonged wilderness expeditions, its effectiveness for everyday, moderate exposure is outstanding. And the absolute best part? The scent is barely perceptible, making it a joy to use without feeling overwhelmed by harsh chemicals or strong herbal notes. It’s truly a breath of fresh air (literally!) compared to its competitors.
On a related note: For those times when we need robust, long-lasting coverage for activities like hiking, camping, or extended periods outdoors, we always turn to these convenient mosquito wipes. They are incredibly effective and easy to apply for serious protection.
And because I can’t believe mosquitos are getting this much spotlight in one of my blog posts, one last vital recommendation: we always keep this bug bite balm on hand. It provides absolutely amazing relief from the relentless itch of mosquito bites, preventing both the younger kids (and, let’s be honest, me too) from having total meltdowns over those annoying itchy-scratchy issues. These three products form our ultimate arsenal against summer bugs!
5. Irresistible Indulgence: My Sweet and Sour Candy Obsession
If there’s one culinary category I simply cannot resist, it’s sweet and sour candy. The vibrant, tangy punch followed by a wave of sweetness is my ultimate undoing. Whether it’s classic Sour Patch Kids or the delightfully chewy Sweet and Sour Hi-Chews, just hand them all over! That dynamic combination of flavors creates an addictive experience that keeps me coming back for more.
I also have a deep appreciation for Australian-style licorice; Wiley Wallaby is a consistent favorite of mine. So, when I stumbled upon this particular sweet and sour licorice in a tiny, unassuming gas station deep in the wilds of Idaho during a road trip, my intrigue was immediately piqued. The concept of combining two of my favorite candy genres felt revolutionary, and I knew I had to try it.
And then, just like that, I became utterly obsessed. These little sweet and sour licorice drops are, without a doubt, my absolute favorite iteration of the sweet and sour candy trend to date. But be forewarned: they are completely, utterly irresistible. My love for them has reached such a point that I’ve resorted to ordering them in bulk, yet I still find myself bewildered by how quickly they vanish from my pantry. Seriously, consider yourself warned – once you start, it’s incredibly hard to stop!
6. A Trio of Temptations: My Top Snack Recommendations
It would be a grave disservice to our friendship if I didn’t also share my other two current snack obsessions that are adding delightful distractions to my daily life. First up are Dill Pickle Pretzels. If you appreciate a savory, tangy crunch, these are an absolute revelation. The distinctive dill flavor perfectly coats each pretzel, creating an explosion of taste that’s surprisingly addictive. They hit that perfect spot when you’re craving something salty and a little bit different.
Next on the list is the glorious Dark Chocolate Drizzled Boomchickapop. This snack masterfully combines the airy crunch of popcorn with the rich, indulgent bitterness of dark chocolate. It’s a harmonious blend of sweet and salty, light and decadent, making it an ideal treat for satisfying those dual cravings. Both of these snacks are currently providing very worthy moments of bliss in my busy routine.
And speaking of dill pickle flavors, I simply must give an honorable mention to these Spicy Dill Pickle Almonds. They offer a fantastic, healthier alternative while still delivering that beloved tangy, zesty pickle kick, elevated with a subtle hint of spice. They’re perfect for a guilt-free crunch when you need a savory pick-me-up. Trust me, these three are essential additions to any snack rotation!
7. The Planning Paradox: Paper vs. Digital – A Serious Inquiry
This might be a question I’ve posed before, but my memory (and admittedly, my laziness to sift through old posts) fails me, so I’m asking again: What kind of planning system do you use, and why? I am, without apology, a hardcore paper planner devotee. This unwavering commitment often earns me merciless teasing from family and friends, who advocate tirelessly for the efficiency of digital solutions. However, I simply cannot bring myself to convert to what I perceive as the sheer inconvenience of electronic planning.
Perhaps now is also the opportune moment to confess my mini obsession with Post-it notes, which I employ endlessly to capture fleeting thoughts, urgent reminders, and creative bursts. There’s something deeply satisfying about physically writing in my spiral-bound paper planner – the tactile experience, the flow of ink on paper, the visual layout of my week. I’m not sure I can ever give it up, despite its undeniable downfalls. It doesn’t sync seamlessly with my family’s various calendars, and it’s not always the most convenient item to schlep around with me everywhere I go.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with a multitude of paper planners: from the highly popular Erin Condren and the customizable Personal Planner, to even designing my own from a template my talented sister-in-law shared on InDesign. Currently, my loyalty lies with Agendio, which allows for incredible personalization. I am notoriously picky about my paper planners – the exact size, the weekly layout, the quality of the paper – it all matters. Sigh. It’s a complex life, being so intrinsically tied to a paper planner, but I genuinely can’t envision navigating my days without my trusty analog sidekick. It helps me organize thoughts, track tasks, and visualize my schedule in a way no screen ever could.
So, I’m truly curious to hear from you: How do you plan and organize your life? Are you a dedicated paper planner, a fully electronic enthusiast, or do you prefer to simply fly by the seat of your pants, embracing spontaneity? Share your planning philosophies in the comments!
8. Fashion Alert: PSA for the World’s Comfiest Dress
Consider this a public service announcement for ultimate comfort and style: I simply cannot adequately convey in words how incredibly loungey, wonderfully comfy, and utterly cute this dress is. It has quickly become my absolute favorite piece of clothing, perfect for everything from relaxed days at home to running errands with effortless flair.
One of its standout features is the sheer variety it offers – it comes in a dizzying array of color and pattern options, ensuring there’s a perfect style for everyone. I personally adore my dark gray version, a versatile staple that can be dressed up or down. Don’t overthink the sizing; it’s quite generous, offering a relaxed and forgiving fit that prioritizes comfort. But the absolute clincher, the feature that truly elevates this dress to legendary status? IT HAS POCKETS. Yes, you heard that right – deep, functional pockets that make it both practical and stylish. Need I say more? This dress is a game-changer for anyone seeking comfort without sacrificing an ounce of cuteness. Run, don’t walk, to add this gem to your wardrobe!
9. Screen Time Inquiry: Seeking Your Verdict on “Crash Landing On You”
I’ve been hearing an overwhelming amount of buzz surrounding the popular K-drama, “Crash Landing On You.” It seems to be everywhere, garnering rave reviews and passionate endorsements from virtually everyone who’s watched it. My curiosity is definitely piqued, but before I dive in, I’d love to gather some collective opinions. Have you watched it? And if so, what are your honest thoughts on whether it’s truly worth watching?
My primary concern, and it’s a significant one, revolves around the subtitles. As much as I enjoy foreign language films and series, I’m a seasoned multi-tasker when it comes to my screen time. By multi-task, I’m not talking about anything overly ambitious – more along the lines of painting my toenails, catching up on emails, or (you guessed it) diligently filling out my trusty paper planner. #nerdalert. The idea of being solely focused on reading subtitles for hours on end is a serious consideration for me, as it would mean sacrificing my usual simultaneous activities.
So, tell me, is “Crash Landing On You” so captivating that it commands full, undivided attention? Is the storyline, the acting, and the overall production truly exceptional enough to warrant putting aside all other distractions? I’m genuinely eager to hear your perspectives before I commit. (And while we’re on the subject, if you have any other must-watch Netflix or Amazon Prime shows – subtitled or not – that you highly recommend, please drop them in the comments below! I’m always looking for my next binge-worthy series.)
10. Revolutionizing Rest: My Experience with the Hatch Restore Alarm System
Many moons ago, I shared that Brian and the kids gifted me a Hatch Restore alarm system for my birthday. Now, several months into using it daily, I’m thrilled to report back: I absolutely LOVE it! This smart alarm clock has genuinely transformed my mornings and, to some extent, my evenings, offering a much-needed upgrade to my sleep and wake-up routine after over 40 years of harsh, jarring alarms.
My favorite setting, without a doubt, is the gradual sunrise wake-up feature. Instead of being abruptly jolted awake by a piercing beep, the Hatch Restore slowly brightens, mimicking a natural sunrise. This gentle illumination eases me out of sleep, allowing me to wake up feeling refreshed and considerably less stressed. It’s a truly peaceful and humane way to start the day, and I can’t believe I lived so long without it.
Beyond the alarm, I’ve also begun to dabble in some of the guided meditations included in the accompanying app. I’m actively trying to establish a more reasonable and consistent bedtime routine, a significant improvement from my old habit of realizing I’ve stayed up way too late *again* and scrambling to get into bed as freakishly fast as possible. The meditations offer a calming transition into sleep, helping to quiet my mind. The device is fully operable from an intuitive app on my phone, and fair warning: it’s incredibly easy to go down the rabbit hole of exploring all the wake-up sound options. There are literally a gazillion variations of wind chimes alone, and that’s just the beginning of the auditory delights.
While I am not affiliated with the company in any way, I truly stand by my high recommendation for this clock/alarm. My only minor complaint is that even on its lowest brightness setting, I find the numbers on the clock face a tad too bright in the pitch dark of night. However, this small issue is far outweighed by my immense love for every other feature and the profound positive impact it has had on my sleep quality and morning routine. It’s an investment in better rest that I wholeheartedly endorse.
11. Back to School: Navigating the Chaos and Celebrating Milestones
Can you believe it? School starts next week, and I am still in utter disbelief at the reality of our current family dynamic. This year, I will officially have three high schoolers, one middle schooler, and one wonderfully lingering elementary student. Who am I, and how did I arrive at this point so quickly? It feels like just yesterday I was navigating toddler tantrums, and now I’m wrangling teenagers. The speed at which time flies is truly astonishing, and honestly, it makes me feel a little old.
With a new school year dawning, perhaps this is the perfect opportunity to reignite my exercise routine. Or perhaps not. The jury is still out on that one! One thing I’ve firmly implemented this year is making everyone responsible for packing their own lunches. This isn’t a radical new policy, however; it’s a continuation from last year, a small but effective strategy from this (proudly) lazy mom to foster a bit more independence and streamline the morning chaos.
On a more serious note, to all the incredible moms, dads, and dedicated support personnel out there, I extend my heartfelt good luck for attacking this new school year. Whether your children are heading into public, private, homeschool, virtual, or any other educational setting, the challenges and triumphs of a new academic cycle are universal. May the force be with us all as we navigate schedules, homework, extracurriculars, and the general beautiful chaos that comes with raising and educating children. We’re in this together, and every effort counts.
Love your guts! Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being here. I say it often, but I genuinely mean it: you truly have no idea how profoundly grateful I am for this little corner of the internet, this wonderful community where we can gather, share, and connect. Your presence makes this space incredibly special, and I cherish every interaction.