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I feel like I just blinked and January was over! This month was filled with so many fun things: my birthday, a weekend trip to Austin, and booking our 1 YEAR ANNIVERSARY TRIP (!) to Playa del Carmen. I’ve started shopping already, y’all. 

New Years Resolutions Check-In

Now that we’re a month into the new year, take a few moments to think about where you’re at with regards to your resolutions/goals for 2017. If you’ve given up all hope- don’t! Start fresh this month. Nobody says you have to start working towards your goal ONLY on January 1st. Start today, right where you are.

If you read my Goals for 2017 post, you know that I wanted to work on slowing down and focusing on the good stuff. I am really proud to say that there is a pile of dishes in my sink right now. I know that sounds silly, but let me explain. I like things clean. I will clean at 11 pm when I’m tired. I will clean when I should be on the couch spending time with my husband. I will clean on Christmas Eve (Cringe. Really. I did that.) This weekend, I spent quality time with myself, with my husband, and with my friends instead of feeling the need to have a spotless house. And I’m so happy I did.

We’ve also got three fun trips planned for this year- all to places we’ve never been! Playa del Carmen, Tennessee, and a ski trip (location TBD). I’m hoping to sneak in some more camping trips with friends to make this year truly one of adventure😊

January Favorites

Now, on to my favorite things! At the end of each month, I share my favorite reads, things, and odds and ends. You can read my December Favorites here.

To Wear

• This pair of gorgeous suede boots – they’re so comfortable, instantly dress up any outfit, and you can’t go wrong with that 50% off price tag.
• This adorable cap– perfect for, well, brunch💁
• These grey nike sneakers – wear them with the brunch cap and you’re set. I’m about to pull the trigger on these pretties. They look suitable for airport walking, right?

To Cook

• This cajun salmon recipe – I don’t have Tony Sacherri’s because it has SO much salt and extra stuff, but this recipe killed it.
• These chocolate protein muffins – You make them in a blender. You pour them into the muffin tin. You’re done. #yesplease
• These sticky baked chicken bites in honey sriracha sauce that I can’t wait to make. Hello, superbowl recipe.

To Read

• Just started reading Me After You and can’t put it down. It’s the sequel to Me Before You. Still haven’t seen the movie🙈
• This article about being productive on Fridays.
• If you’re looking for some home decor inspiration this spring (#totallyguilty) I’ve been pinning some g o r g e o u s photos. Check out the board here.

 

Can I share something with y’all that’s on my heart? Yesterday at church, a guest comedian was talking about how God uses our circumstances to impact others. He didn’t cause your father to abandon you as a child, but He’s going to use that experience to help you bless others. He didn’t cause your hardships growing up, but He’s using those for good. What has gone on in your life that you can use to help others? You need to know that God doesn’t make these circumstances happen. But He uses them for good. He uses them so that you can help others who have gone through that very same thing. How can you be a blessing to others today?

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28)

Thanks for reading, y’all. God is so good.