A Few Things I’m Loving – Real Life Edition

I tend to write first and link second. When something doesn’t fit naturally into a post, I’d rather leave it out than force it in.

This page is where I keep a small, evolving list of things I actually own and use — items that have quietly become part of everyday life. I add to it slowly, usually a few favorites at a time, and let it change as the seasons do.

If it’s listed here, it’s because it’s something I genuinely enjoy — not because it was trending or convenient to link. This page is evolving, and going forward it will only include items I personally own and use.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

January Favorites

Playmobil Animal Hotel
A toy that’s been getting a lot of use lately.

Montana West Hobo Bag (Pink)
I grabbed this for spring.

Vince Camuto Bella Eau de Parfum
Soft, easy, everyday.

So Loved, Little Kitten
A children’s picture book that’s especially close to my heart.

Skin care I am currently enjoying in my 40s

• Daily SPF I’ll Actually Wear
  • Eucerin Tinted (or Untinted) Age Defense Face Sunscreen Lotion – Lightweight, non-greasy, and not “sunscreen-y.” I wear it every single day, even under our permanent winter grey sky.
• Makeup Setting Spray
  • Milani Make It Last – I spritz it after makeup and keep one in my purse for reapplication on sunny days. Simple, affordable, and it works.
• Longtime Love
  • Neutrogena Blemish Bar Soap – I’ve used this since I was 13. I try other things, but always come back. Yes, I still get acne and need mature skin products. Ugh, 45.
• Nighttime Nourishment
  • Measurable Difference Rosehip Oil – Smells amazing and makes my skin feel nourished. I use it at night or whenever my face feels dry. Sometimes I mix it into lotion for an extra boost.
  • I also stick with CeraVe Moisturizing Cream during winter — it’s a lifesaver.
  • I have recently started dermaplaning for better skincare and medication absorption and these Schick Hydro Silk Touch-Up Dermaplaning Tools are my favorite.

My Very Basic Makeup Routine

I’ve been desperately searching for a lightweight foundation that works for everyday wear. Most are too heavy, streaky, or (worst of all) sink right into wrinkles.

A friend raved about a luxury gel foundation, but I couldn’t bring myself to splurge. Instead, I found Pixi H2O Skin Tint, and I’m loving it. It feels weightless, isn’t streaky, and gives a natural finish. Not full coverage, but perfect for daily wear.

For blush, I’m into Glossier Cloud Paint. It’s light, easy to blend, and looks fresh all day.

I finish with e.l.f. Perfect Finish HD Powder. It helps cut shine, especially after layering serums and moisturizers. I also love e.l.f. Lash XTNDR Mascara and e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner.

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If you’re looking to reset your kiddo’s closet, these might be worth checking out:

• Velvet non-slip kid hangers – lightweight and grippy
• Closet dividers – to label types or days of the week
• Clear bins or cubbies – great for socks, undies, or accessories
• Vacuum-seal storage bags – seasonal items, hand-me-downs, or extras

Tools that help me feel calm in the momma chaos.

• My favorite walking pad is a couple of years old and I use it every day. This is the same brand and I highly recommend if you find calm in walking.
• I am also revisiting my favorite fidget rings to help with anxiety. I use mine all the time and they are discreet to use in public, at home, or in your car.

Helpful items for clean and organized spaces and for getting through the tough days.

• My new vacuum that does a great job cleaning up crumbs, hair, and even glitter.
• My favorite Swiffer wet floor wipes that smell really good and clean up messes on our tile floors.
• These bins are my dream organizational tool for the pantry.
• And for those days when I really need a boost, I whip up an extra cup of my favorite iced coffee and take a minute to breathe—before diving back into everything else.
• Might I recommend these Hershey’s Nuggets (party pack size of course).

Tools That May Help on Your Journey – Highly rated Amazon picks—handpicked for moms navigating adoption, foster parenting, and self-care.

• Trauma‑Informed Parenting: Healing Your Child’s Past – A gentle, evidence-based guide for parents facing trauma-related parenting challenges.
• My Foster Care Notebook – A structured journal to track visits, appointments, moods, and memorable moments.
• Self‑Care for Moms: 150+ Real Ways to Care for Yourself – A practical workbook to fit self-care into your busy mom life.

Favorite Tools to Help Feel More Grounded at Home. I haven’t tried every single one, but these are highly rated and often recommended for stay-at-home moms.

• Daily Planner for Stay-at-Home Moms – Great for managing the invisible workload and feeling more in control of your time
• Mindfulness Journal for Moms – Helps with reflection, gratitude, and confidence in your daily life

Here are a few highly-rated, beginner-friendly books and tools that might help you feel more confident with savings and investing:

• Broke Millennial Takes on Investing by Erin Lowry – Written with beginners in mind, this book is often recommended for its relatable tone and easy-to-understand breakdowns of things like retirement accounts.
• The Automatic Millionaire by David Bach – Focuses on building wealth through small, automated steps—a great match for anyone starting out with a tight budget.
• Clever Girl Finance by Bola Sokunbi – This one is geared toward women and covers everything from budgeting to investing basics.

I haven’t read these personally, but they’re well-reviewed and widely suggested for people who want to learn the basics of saving and investing.

I have always loved skin care products. I have tried so many different options over the years. This bubble clay mask is amazing. I love the fun foaming action as it bubbles on my face. Once rinsed, my face feels so smooth and clean. Plus added bonus – cute packaging and fun name Elizavecca Milky Piggy. Please click here to purchase on Amazon.

I’ve tried countless fidget toys over the years—mostly for my daughter, in hopes of finding calming, sensory-friendly tools that actually work. But recently, at 45 years old and a self-proclaimed anxious momma, I bought these fidget rings for myself. And wow—I wish I had done it sooner!

I have a long-standing habit of chewing and picking at my fingers when I’m stressed or overwhelmed. I’ve tried everything from fake nails (which only end up damaged from my DIY projects) to stress balls and silicone poppers. But nothing has helped quite like these spinner rings for anxiety.

They’re stylish, colorful, and truly effective. I keep one in my purse, one in the car, another in the bedroom, and one in the family room—because I use them all the time! While my fingers aren’t perfect yet, these rings have dramatically reduced my anxious chewing and picking habits.

If you’re looking for a fidget solution for adults or something to help with nail biting and anxiety, these rings are a game-changer. I’m in love—seriously. Functional, pretty, and soothing. Highly recommend.

Click here to order these fidget rings on Amazon.