TRIED & TRUE ◽ TIPS
It’s a new year, new adventures await us, new things to try and learn, new places to visit and observe…it’s all new! And I love sharing new things I learn each month to inspire you, and to encourage you to note and learn from your own daily living, as well!
Have you seen the candles in the Magnolia section at Target? They’re always so pretty, and this one I got over the holiday season is in a vessel I can keep and use in my home!
Maybe root beer floats are only enjoyed in the summer, but why? There’s nothing cozier than having them in your home with a fire going and a good movie showing.
If you haven’t seen Nuremberg, it’s an amazing film starring the almost unrecognizable Russell Crowe. And I bet he gets an Oscar nod..
Puzzle You is a company that takes your photo and makes it into a jigsaw – I got one for my husband for Christmas of one of our vacation photos. Look how nice!
I saw this on Instagram, where you place three hooks on the back of a door for hanging a top, a bottom and accessories to put together outfits. It’s so fun!
I purchased more jewelry last year from Erin McDermott than I have from anywhere else – her pieces are that good! And she has sales ALL THE TIME – good ones! These earrings are a fave, but she has the coolest necklaces, ever.
Fig jam on toast with sliced almonds on top, and a side of fortified orange juice on the side. I’m just saying, this is a good breakfast!
I did it. I organized that mess of mismatched lids and containers, bought a new set, and I’m a happy camper. This set is from the Container Store. Then I have the neatest rolling bins from Lakeside Collection to house all the tiny containers. They fit so nicely under the cabinet – I have three of them! All so affordable.
Some people say scrolling Instagram is a waste of time. I beg to differ. Some people would rather scroll than read a book or watch a TV program. And Instagram is full of inspiring accounts, if you follow the right ones! That’s the key. Only follow what is of interest to you! And enjoy the scroll.
In case you love refrigerator notepads like I do, Marshalls always has a great selection. I got one with winter trees on it for December/January. They also have the cutest planners, in case you like to write instead of type.
1canoe2 has the best stand up calendars on a round wooden disk – you can choose the theme – I love one for the dates and the décor…sitting on a shelf.
I saw where a lady used an old magazine rack (the wooden kind with a handle) in her kitchen to house all her baking sheets. It was the cutest!
Overwhelmed with all your wrapping mess, after the holidays? Stuff it in a closet and leave it until July… it will be fun then to organize and anticipate the coming Christmas. I know, because it’s what I do!
Made any New Year’s Resolutions for 2026? I started in December bowing physically often,
and considering what it means to bow…and I’ve enjoyed it so much.
I think I’ll continue the practice…
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Last Month's Learnin'...
by Marcy Lytle
TRIED & TRUE ◽ TIPS
I’m always learning, trying new things, and sharing them with you. Feel free this month to add things you’ve learned in the comment box below, and we’ll share it next month!
Battery operated lamps – they saved us when the power went out – do you have some? Keep several on hand as décor!
Puzzles – 300 pieces – kids can put these together in a couple hours – if you need them to stay occupied for a bit. Amazon has lots!
Do you bake potatoes in the slow cooker? Wrap in foil, place inside, along with ½ cup water. Cook about 8-9 hours on low.
If your card table is old and nicked up…Amazon has elastic covered tablecloths that work like a charm to restore the table to beauty!
When’s the last time you purchased and plugged in a new nightlight? It’s an easy affordable treat for fall fun.
A couple of good movies to see with the kids…Inside Out 2…and The Hill (on Netflix). First one is animated but shares a great lesson, and second one is better for the older kids…it’s based on a true story.
Looking for great and personally made, quality jewelry? I love Ink and Alloy. Check out their pieces!
Did you know there are bracelets (the cutest!) for you and kids…that when you purchase…you can track a specific animal? Check this out!
The Target Dollar Spot often has organizers that work well in pantries. I recently found shelves and baskets I love…with green trim!
Solar lamps on your porch are just plain cute and inviting. Big Lots has a cute one!
Best Maid pickle juice over ice, then bits of pickle on top – they say it’s good!
Need some new lawn chairs? We tried very style in multiple stores and opted for the old style with the woven straps in a pretty green and brown…and we love them.
Have you made lemonade this summer yet? Why not? Squeeze some lemons in a cute summer pitcher and add water, and however much sugar you like. It even tastes good with a slice of banana bread for breakfast!
Thinking of upgrading your front yard or porch?
Pick a neighborhood you like and go for a walk there, and snap photos of looks you love. It helps!