I’m starting a new Friday Faves series where I share a few things I’ve been Loving Lately, whether it’s a photography related product, a funny viral video, a toy my kids have given two thumbs up, a beauty product – whatever is making me smile or making my life better lately.
1. First Day of School Papers
School started last week for us, and I love doing not just first day of school pictures but also questionnaires. There are many versions out there that ask a variety of questions – favorite color, favorite food, what do you want to be when you grow up, etc. I’ve been using these questionnaires the last couple years. It’s always fun to see how their answers, and even penmanship, change from the beginning of the year to the end of the year and through out the years. One of my favorite answers this year was that Ethan wants to be a super hero when he grows up.
2. The Magnolia Story
We don’t have cable tv, so whenever we travel or stay in hotels, we always love to watch HGTV, especially Fixer Upper. We, along with much of the country, fell in love with Chip and Joanna, French doors, and shiplap. So, when I saw that they were writing a book, I was so excited to read it. Phil and I were on the road quite a bit one weekend, so we decided to get the audio version, and let me tell you, it made the trip go so much faster and was much more enjoyable. We loved hearing their backstories and how the show has changed their lives and their town of Waco. And listening to their actual voices read the text made the whole experience!
3. Clickin Moms
I have been reading the Clickin Moms Blog for years. I remember when Abby was a newborn, staying up way later than I should have wanting to read just one more blog post or tutorial so that I could take better baby pictures of her. They have an amazing blog with endless tips and tricks, and there is also a Member Forum where you can ask questions, discuss all things photography, take classes, and receive fun freebies each month. If you want to improve your photo skills, definitely check it out!
4. Raspberries
Another thing we’ve been loving lately is raspberries! Our local grocery store has had the 6 oz. raspberry containers for 50 cents (yes 50 cents!) the last couple weeks! Since those can easily be $4 during the winter, you can bet we loaded up our cart with as many as we knew we could eat. Does anyone else put them on their fingers? Or have a photobombing pet? 🙂
5. Pumpkin Butter Lip Balm
I may be a bit addicted to lip balm, and Abby has definitely caught that from me. My friend, Jillia, started making lip balm several years ago to give to friends and family as Christmas gifts. It was so popular that she started her own business, Pure Pucker Lip Care. She starts with a simple recipe and then adds essential oils and natural ingredients, such as coffee, cocoa powder, or homemade vanilla oil. She even dehydrates beets, strawberries, or pumpkins to add natural color and flavor. My absolute favorite is Sweet Orange, but lately I’ve been Loving the Pumpkin Butter since I’m ready for all things fall. Abby is loving the Lavender Big Balm. It pretty much stays in her room because it has become the magical boo-boo fixer. She always seems to have a dozen different scrapes, bug bites, or bumps that suddenly hurt or itch at bedtime. And this Lavender Big Balm magically fixes those booboos and keeps bedtime on track (can I get an Amen?!).
Jillia has graciously provided me a coupon code! Enter SCHANELY10 until September 30, 2017 to receive 10% off your order! Click here to check out her Pure Pucker Etsy Store and try out her amazing Lip Balm!
AND because I Love it so much, I’m Giving Away a lip balm to 3 lucky people. To be entered, Sign Up for my Newsletter and then comment on my recent Facebook post about 5 Things I’ve Loving telling me which flavor you’d love to try! If you’re already signed up, just comment on the post. 🙂 Giveaway ends Wednesday, September 6 at noon EST. The winners will be announced on my Facebook page*.
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