1) We have zero plans to fly anywhere – the first time it’s been this way in almost a year and a half. And can I just say that I want to normalize not flying places when you have small children? I now feel like I have so much time to plan things I want to do around the house, date nights, adventures, etc. We are scaling waaay back in 2023 with our travel and I feel so much relief.
2) We bought our kids more toys for Christmas than any year so far (usually we mix in clothes, gear, etc) and there is something that feels so special in gifting your children toys. C and I are both really looking forward to spending a quiet Christmas in Portland with just the four members of our family. I can’t wait to tear open the presents on Christmas Day with my kids, and then spend all day playing with the new toys.
3) I recently bought this kitchen gadget after making so many soups that needed transferred to the Vitamix and then back to the pot. I’m very excited for less of a mess and more efficiency in the kitchen. Something I think everyone is a fan of. I’m particularly excited to make this dish.
4) Three months ago when I got a new job (a very, very part time job that is outside of running my household) and starting preschool in the same week, I felt totally overwhelmed. Going to work again was way harder of a transition for me than I expected. It’s only 10 hours a week, so I thought it’d be a breeze. I love it now, but man it took about six weeks to feel like I was back in the groove of life again. I’m so grateful for my little job. It’s brought a lot of joy and the community is incredible.
5) We kicked off our advent tradition this week and it’s amazing how much A loves it. He was into it last year, but this year he’s all about it!
6) We are late to this trend, but over Thanksgiving we started White Lotus and we are already watching season two! It’s the most boring + tense show I’ve ever watched – ha!
7) I fell off listening to podcasts after G was born. But with my new commute to forest school I’ve since picked them back up. Some of my favorites are The Toast (hilarious) and Second Life (inspiring). I’ve also been slowly making my way through The Rise & Fall Of Mars Hill. If you are a follower of Jesus, it is a wild and sad story of, quite literally, the rise and fall of that church.
8) This summer I made my first purchase of a silk scrunchie specifically to wear at night when I go to bed. When I tell you I love this thing… I’m obsessed. It’s a game changer for me. I just ordered a three pack today and plan to wear them out and about.
9) Something I’m eyeing for Christmas for myself is this gorgeous bag. I’m realizing the way that I splurge on myself is through handbags. I particularly love this brand so, so much. It’s cheeky and stylish and effortless. I also love all the accessories you can add or replace to change up the bags depending on the season.
10) Where I’ve picked up a website, small job, and a commute to forest preschool I have completely dropped off on reading in 2022. I think I’ve read under 15 books this year which is just… sad. I’ve been consistently having a book that I’m reading but each night I climb into bed, read about 2-3 pages, and then pass out. I am moving through books at a snails pace! BUT! The book I’m reading right now (this one) is so good and so far a very light and easy read.
