Shop Local

Shopping local = support local businesses to me. Whether it is our local Mexican restaurant, dry cleaners, shops, farmers market, etc. – anytime we can support a local business is a win in my book. Here are some of my current favorites:

• All She Wrote Notes – I met Maghon Taylor years ago when she can and lead a calligraphy class for my Bible Study gals. I have followed her ever since and like to think of her as a friend now. It has been fun to watch her go from this side business she did at night to a gal making it a full-time gig. She has written a book (the second is coming soon), partnerships with some great companies and she keeps spreading happiness.
• May Designs – My first purchase was their journal books and I loved them. If I had to guess I probably bought from them 10 years ago. In more recent years, I have bought a number of their tumblers. They are FANTASTIC. They are not only the type that will keep hot hot and cold cold, but they can go in the dishwasher!!! That’s a huge win in this house. Love both sizes and are fun to pick out colors, monograms, etc. Since COVID-19, they started making masks. When we knew masks were going to be the thing – I quickly ordered and these were some of the first masks we got. They are great – a pocket area for a filter, comfortable, easy to wash.
• Busy Bee Gifts – My friend Courtney shared with me last summer the Posh Paper Crate with me and I had to sign up. A monthly subscription of cute paper goods. I’ve had everything from a notebook, monogram notecards, recipe cards, file folders and more. It’s a surprise every month and a fun package to open.
• Picnic @ Home – A favorite catering company I have used for years (The Picnic Basket) changed their thinking with COVID-19 and started contactless delivery of dinners. We have had them bring dinner several times. From beef ribs to fajitas and BBQ pork sandwiches – everything has been delicious. They drop off the meal at the door and all you have to do is heat it up (about 30 minutes) and dinner is served. If you are in the Raleigh-Durham area, give them a try.

What are your favorite Small Businesses?

Over the next several posts, I will share some of my favorite things. Some of these are COVID-19 purchases and others are just things that I have purchased over the first part of 2020.

Amazon Finds

I think we all have gotten in the habit of the easy shopping Amazon provides. With a few clicks, you have ordered and then the box arrives on your door step. From essentials to random items – Amazon has it all.

• OtterBox Defender Cell Phone Case – I have used this style case for some time. It does the job for me in keeping my cell phone safe from the accidental drops and daily use. I opted for a fun pink polka dots case this time. Easy to find in the purse.
• Cricket Static Hair Brush Fast Flo – My all time favorite hairbrush. I think I originally bought one at Ulta and then have replaced it several times by a quick Amazon order. I even have a smaller version that is perfect for my purse.
• Conair Instant Heat Travel Hot Rollers – Speaking of hair, I ordered these a couple months ago when I knew there was not hair appointment in the future. I was already 2 months into the new haircut and knew it was going to probably be another 2 months. Had to do something…I’ve used hot rollers before, but these are great because they are larger and give you body not curly curly hair. They have been great.
• Fitbit Band – I have ordered a variety of bands for my Fitbit through the years. This one has become a favorite for Mom, my sister, and me. A little dressier than some, but still functional.
• CINEMA SECRETS Pro Cosmetics Professional Brush Cleaner Spray – So, I have seen several Instagram “friends” post about this make-up brush cleaner….so I thought I would give it a try. My make-up brush has never been cleaner and softer. I have tried many other tricks, but they never have been this clean.

What are your Amazon finds? Do you have favorites that you have on repeat? We order coffee (K-Cups) monthly, my new favorite elderberry gummies, and trash bags. I would love to hear of any of your favorites from Amazon.

I have traveled quite a bit over the last several months. A little business, personal, professional development conference and another fun trip with my sister. Seems like my suitcase has just stayed in my bedroom and either be in a stage of being unpacked or repacked.

I love hearing what are the “must haves” when traveling from people. I think I’m getting better at not over packing, but having just what is needed. It takes some organization, but I have come home so many times from trips with all the extras that I never touched, that this summer I have tried being intentional about packing.

So, here are so of my essentials as I travel…

• Earphones – I love these Bose SoundSport Headphones because they work with my cell phone.
• Pens – My current favorite “cheap” pen is the Papermate InkJoy Medium Point
• Journal/Notebook
• Swell Bottle – Airport tip…My first stop once through security is the Starbucks for a little treat and a cup of ice water to pour into my bottle for later.
• DoTerra OnGuard Hand Santizer
• Extra tote bag – I have loved this DayTripper Scout bag. It has been perfect to stick in my suitcase for a tote once I reach my final destination. Whether I need a pool bag, tote for around the city, or whatever – this is perfect.
• Suncreen – R+F Essentials Body Screen has been my go-to product for the last several years. Smells great, no greasy residue, and the best part – no burning in the sun.

What are you always traveling with?

My family is wrapping up our annual Beach Week and all week I have thought that I would kick start this blogging thing. Good intentions and a start two years ago has just stopped. Let’s just say it’s been a busy season.

So, why not start back with an easy post based on our week and my favorite beach items this week:

1. Coolibar Marina Sun Hat – My mom has had a similar hat for years and last year I finally broke down and bought a hat. Let’s just say my hat has been the best purchase I have made. Most of the time a hat makes me hot…this hat does just the opposite. It’s cool and provides the shade you need and an added bonus it has UPF 50+. A win all around.
2. Lands End Rash Guard Shirt – Another great find and well used item when you spend a week at the beach. Trying to not look like a lobster, I have found these Swim Shirts to be my BFF. Most of the time it’s just my cover-up, but then when I’ve had just a little too much sun, I put the shirt on and again, I’m cool and covered.
3. Sunset Slush – Who doesn’t love a cool, refreshing treat after a day at the beach/pool?!? I’m not sure how many days we just had to go get a refreshing treat. From strawberry, lemon-lime, peach, watermelon, pineapple…we enjoyed all the flavors. If you come near a Sunset Slush – it is well worth the stop in to enjoy.
4. Thirty-One Beach Bag – Everyone needs a great beach bag to carry all your stuff…well, mine is no other than a Thirty-One Bag. It’s an older style and not available anymore, but any of their bags with a fun print works for a pool/beach bag. Durable, colorful, functional – all the things.
5. Rodan + Fields Essentials Sunscreen – Some of you may know that I started R+F almost two years ago. It was really to keep up the products I was using and having success with. One of the products that I have loved is their sunscreen. For the first time in many years, I have not burned while at the beach. Between my sunscreen, Coolibar hat and Lands End Shirt – I’m set.

A great week of rest and relaxation. Sunny weather and no agenda is just what was needed. Until the next time…