The Little List | October 5, 2023
It’s been a while since I last shared a little list, but with the first phase of our move under our belt, it felt like the right time to share some of the little things that have been bringing me joy lately. It was a big deal for me to let go and sell our home. The past few weeks have been a physical and emotional roller coaster as we packed up all of our belongings, shoved them into a POD, saw them off to storage for the next little while, and settled our family of four into my in-laws home for the foreseeable future. We will be stepping into our next chapter soon, but only after we live in a state of floating for a while.
As a creature of comfort, it has been difficult to accept this period of transition. We have a clear vision of where we’re headed, but are unable to be there quite yet. As I anxiously wait, I’m trying to make the most of this phase. I’ve been trying to soak in the many blessings I have to be grateful for, both big and small. I’ve certainly had my moments, but I’d say that generally this has been helping me press on in faith and excitement for our next chapter - whenever we get there.
After working tirelessly to get out of our house by last Friday, we decided to take our family to the local fair for a Saturday evening of fun. It was a joy to unwind and focus on something other than moving for a change, but what unexpectedly made it so special was the delight we were able to take in Mabel’s experience of such an event. At four years old, this was her first fair experience and I felt like I was experiencing it all for the first time myself as I watched her take it all in. We rode the ferris wheel and other rides, played games and won a stuffed animal, watched horse pulls, drank slushies, pet farm animals, ate all the fair food, stayed up late to watch the fireworks, and most importantly, enjoyed it all together. In fact, that is what is singlehandedly helping me hold it all together through all these changes: as long as my little family is together, we’re at home.
The ferris wheel ride was a highlight of the fair
Affectionately named “Fair Dragon”
Life has still been good despite all the change and I’m ready to step into a season of rest as we wait on our next move. To be able to read, meditate, think. To find solace in where we are and what we can do while we’re here. And to dream about what comes next. There’s a lot to be grateful for. Here are a few of the things that have been bringing me joy, making me think, or helping me grow recently:
My in-laws don’t have television or any streaming at their house, so I’m looking forward to the opportunity to read in the evenings once the girls get settled for bed. I have quite a few books on my reading list. I’m already partway through this insightful book and am looking forward to starting this one next. I also pre-ordered Erin Napier’s new book and can’t wait to soak in the thoughtful stories it has to offer once it arrives. I already know it will inspire me as I started to make plans for our next home.
I was able to pop into the shop a few weeks ago to check in on the restoration progress of my antique family heirloom dresser. I’ve shared about it on Instagram and maybe not here, so if you’re unsure what I’m talking about, I inherited a dresser built in 1896 by my three-time paternal great grandfather. It’s such a special piece of family history and so I decided to have it professionally refinished. On my visit, we were able to test some finishes and decided to move ahead with a beautiful mid-toned brown inspired by this look. I can’t wait to be able to use it in Franny’s room at our new house.
I recently devoured The Witch Trials of JK Rowling podcast series and I just have to suggest that it become a required listen for every single person. It covers a hot-button topic, but does so in such a thoughtful way. In fact, even after finishing it, I couldn’t distinguish where the reporter stands on the issue herself and I appreciate her approach of addressing some big current cultural discussions in a way that acknowledges all the nuance that goes along with it. In my opinion, this is what honest discussion should look like. These issues are not black and white, cut and dry, and this podcast models that so beautifully.
We’ve had the same basic IKEA bed since the day we got married and so Curt and I decided that once we move, we are going to upgrade to a king mattress and finally treat ourselves to an adult bedframe. I’m not sure what we will settle on, but I’ve been hunting for ideas and think I’d like to go for something like this or like this. One thing’s for sure: comfy and cozy are my end goals.
Two words: Fall food. It’s my favourite time of the year for cooking! I made this Harvest Squash Soup a couple of weeks ago and it absolutely did not disappoint. Feeling more adventurous? I always love the smell of fresh homemade soft pretzels and this is always a favourite recipe.
Have you heard of Pura smart home fragrance devices? They’re one of those things that are a little bit extra, but I got one for Christmas last year and recently added a second. They’re a little pricey, but as someone who is very sensitive to scent, I love how customizable they are. You can adjust the scent intensity and set a schedule all from your phone, and it’s so fun to experiment with new scent offerings! I had this New Home smell going while our house was on the market and loved waking up to the soft smell of Sol Tobac from Anthropologie in the mornings. Kind of extra, but definitely one of those little things I always harp on about.
I recently switched out a few of my everyday makeup products and am currently loving my daily routine. I start with some moisturizer and this Vitamin C BB cream, followed by a light coat of this Glossier foundation. I add a touch of blush, some mascara, and always brush my brows with a little bit of my favourite brow freeze product. Top it off with a quick swipe of matte lipstick and I’m good to go within five minutes! I’m not one to argue that you need makeup to be presentable, but I always do my makeup because the act of applying it mentally helps me switch on for the day. I definitely like to keep it pretty simple and natural though.
Simple and natural-looking
foundation // blush // mascara // brow freeze // lipstick
Where have you been finding inspiration, joy, and contentment lately?
Disclaimer: This post may contain some affiliate links. Read our full Affiliate Disclosure for more information.
