January’s Good Things List: Embracing Joy, Setting Goals, and Cozy Finds for a Brighter 2022

A monthly collection of curated recommendations covering delightful sights, engaging activities, smart purchases, inspiring reads, captivating watches, and more.

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Happy 2022! As we step into a new year, there’s a collective sense of hope and a desire for fresh beginnings. While the past few years have presented their share of unique challenges and difficulties for many of us (and that might be the understatement of the year!), I’ve learned through experience that dwelling on the hard things rarely leads to constructive outcomes or personal peace. Instead, an intentional shift in focus can profoundly impact our daily lives.

My personal strategy for cultivating a more positive outlook involves limiting my news intake and dedicating time to reflection and gratitude each morning, often through Bible study or devotional practices. This sets a grounding tone for the day ahead. I also choose to follow individuals on platforms like Instagram who inspire joy by consistently living life well and authentically. Most importantly, I actively seek out and focus on the myriad “good things” that can be discovered even amidst the ordinary moments of our days.

I share this perspective at the dawn of a new year, and indeed, a new year of these “Good Things Lists,” so you know that this isn’t an attempt to ignore reality or bury my head in the sand. I understand that there are countless other avenues for staying informed about all matters deemed “important.” My aim, however, is to offer you something different – a guide on how to continue living a simple, homemade, and grateful life, regardless of external circumstances.

Of course, I’ve experienced my share of frustrations, moments of fear, and even tears, much like I’m sure many of you have. But the process of curating these lists of delightful discoveries and practical recommendations has been incredibly helpful for me. It allows me to shift my attention to things that genuinely impact my daily well-being far more than some of the headlines I encounter (like the comforting warmth of wool socks on a cold day!).

It is my sincere hope that these simple compilations of fun things to see, meaningful activities to do, thoughtful items to buy, engaging books to read, and captivating shows to watch will bring a similar sense of comfort, inspiration, and joy to your life. Here’s to a truly good new year, filled with many positive experiences and valuable insights!

Monthly Good Things List: Fresh Finds and Favorite Experiences

A Magical White Christmas Experience

The transition into the new year was marked by a truly enchanting Christmas Day, blanketed in a generous 10-12 inches of pristine snow. What made this even more miraculous in our region was that this significant snowfall, followed by a week of on-and-off winter flurries, thankfully didn’t result in a power outage. For those of us living here, both the amount of snow and the uninterrupted power supply were indeed Christmas miracles, adding an extra layer of magic to the holiday season.

It was an absolute joy to experience our festive Christmas lights and cozy indoor decorations complemented by the stunning, frosty scenery outside. The entire atmosphere felt straight out of a storybook, enhancing the holiday spirit in a unique way.

A particular highlight was observing our energetic little dog, Jynx, who experienced her first snow. It was a complete blast to watch her revel in the winter wonderland, running, jumping, and playfully biting at the snow. Her reaction was pure delight, and she essentially whimpered constantly to be allowed outside. However, her fine hair proved to be an excellent collector of the dry, powdery snow, forming small, dense snowballs that quickly grew, making her legs resemble those of the Michelin Man. The only way to remove these icy clumps was a warm bath in the sink, which, much to our amusement, became a frequent activity. Thankfully, our daughter was still visiting, allowing us to cycle through sink-bath duties!

Intentional Goal Setting and Vision Planning for the New Year

As is my tradition, I dedicate the quiet week between Christmas and New Year’s Day to thoughtful reflection, reviewing the achievements and lessons of the past year, and meticulously setting new goals, plans, and aspirations for the upcoming year. I’ve already shared my comprehensive 2022 review and detailed goals, which you can read here. This annual practice is instrumental in shaping my focus and guiding my efforts.

I’ve noticed that the term “goals” can sometimes carry negative connotations or a sense of pressure. For me, what I define as “goals” is truly a blend of concrete objectives, actionable plans, and inspiring dreams. These are aspirations that would be wonderful to achieve within the year, or perhaps the next, and sometimes, they evolve or shift altogether. There’s a fluidity to them that removes the rigid pressure often associated with goal-setting.

For instance, Brian and I outline what I refer to as “Five-Year Goals” within the framework of The Flexible Planner. These are broader, more general objectives and long-term dreams, such as increasing our retirement savings or embarking on more extensive travel. These overarching goals serve as guiding stars, helping to define my annual focus. Within these yearly plans, I delve into more specific, measurable objectives, often utilizing the S.M.A.R.T (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) framework to ensure clarity and progress.

To ensure real momentum, I then break these annual goals down into smaller, actionable steps for each quarter. This systematic approach allows us to consistently work towards and make tangible progress on our key priorities. For example, achieving a specific amount in retirement funds by year-end is a straightforward and essential financial goal—it’s something you actively plan for, not just dream about, to ensure it gets accomplished.

Conversely, our desire to travel often exists in a more fluid space, oscillating between a concrete plan and an inspiring dream. We might dream about exotic destinations and then take initial planning steps, like researching accommodations or flight options. However, travel plans are often subject to external factors beyond our control—illness, unexpected financial constraints, or even global pandemics, as we’ve all experienced recently. There are indeed times when even the most meticulous planning doesn’t unfold as expected.

So, should one abandon goal-setting altogether when faced with such uncertainties? My answer, as you might guess, is a resounding no! I spent many years avoiding explicit goal-setting, and as a result, I made little headway on my larger aspirations. I found myself merely reacting to daily demands, accomplishing many small tasks but failing to move forward on significant personal or financial objectives.

When certain annual aspirations don’t materialize, I don’t view it as a failure. Instead, I see it as an indication that the objective may require more time to accomplish, or perhaps, it’s no longer something I genuinely desire. I can’t even count how many times “fully fund our emergency fund” appeared on my yearly goals list! But the immense feeling of accomplishment and financial security when it was finally fully funded? That was truly priceless.

Therefore, I wholeheartedly encourage you to set your own goals, plans, or dreams, however you choose to label them. Even if it’s just one or two significant items, the sense of achievement you will experience when they come to fruition is incredibly rewarding and motivating. It’s a powerful investment in your future self.

The Great Wool Sock Face-Off: Bombas vs. Amazon

It’s been a few months now since I embarked on my informal wool sock comparison, pitting Bombas wool socks against a highly-rated set I purchased from Amazon. While I can’t yet speak definitively about their long-term wear and durability after only a short period, I wanted to provide a quick update on my initial impressions and preferences after several months of consistent wear. This initial feedback has already revealed a significant differentiator.

There’s one crucial difference that has consistently led me to choose the Bombas socks over the Amazon alternatives: the fit around the ankle. The Bombas socks offer a perfectly balanced stretch – they feel snug enough to stay up without ever feeling constrictive or tight. In contrast, the cheaper Amazon socks tend to be quite tight around the ankles, which for me, is a complete deal-breaker. I simply cannot tolerate socks that dig into my skin or leave marks, so this comfort factor instantly elevates Bombas to the top.

When I describe the Bombas socks as having “perfect stretch,” I mean it across both their quarter-ankle and calf-length styles. They provide support and stay in place without creating any discomfort. It’s worth noting that my Amazon comparison was limited to a single brand, so it’s entirely possible that other brands of wool socks on Amazon or elsewhere might offer a comparable “perfect stretch.”

Beyond my personal preference, I can also add that I gifted Bombas socks to Brian and our children for Christmas, and they have all universally praised them. Brian particularly appreciates the cushioning in the wool-running socks I got him and how effectively they keep his feet warm, even if they happen to get damp. This speaks to their versatility and performance in varying conditions.

Another point worth mentioning is the pleasant thickness of the Bombas wool socks. They feel substantial and cushiony, providing excellent comfort without being overly bulky, which allows them to be worn comfortably with both slippers and shoes. Yes, I absolutely need to wear slippers even with wool socks – have I mentioned how much I feel the cold?!

In conclusion, I’m definitely leaning towards becoming a dedicated Bombas fan. If you’re looking to upgrade your sock game and experience the comfort and quality of Bombas wool socks, here’s a special 25% off purchase link for you – simply click here to access it! (A quick note: I’ve only tried their wool socks and find them worth the investment. However, I personally feel their regular cotton socks might be a bit overpriced.)

Essential Layers: The Best Undershirt for Staying Warm in Cold Weather

Given my ongoing quest for warmth, I recently mentioned the significant benefits of wearing silk underlayers during the colder months. I’m thrilled to share a specific recommendation: the 100% silk undershirt that Brian thoughtfully got me for Christmas (with a little helpful prompting from me, of course!). This item has truly been a game-changer in my winter wardrobe.

When I first experimented with silk undershirts a couple of years ago, I was genuinely astonished by how much warmth such a thin, lightweight garment could provide. It feels as though you’re barely wearing an extra layer – it’s incredibly light and breathable. Yet, it remarkably fends off chills, working wonders when worn discreetly under sweaters and looser tops, adding a crucial layer of insulation without bulk.

Previously, I had tried polyester underlayer shirts. While they did offer some warmth, I often found myself feeling a bit clammy or sweaty, which defeats the purpose of comfortable layering. Furthermore, my commitment to sustainable choices has grown stronger after learning that microplastics found in our waterways and marine life primarily originate from washing synthetic clothes like microfiber and polyester. This knowledge has fueled my mission to consciously seek out and purchase only natural fibers whenever possible. It’s not always an easy task in today’s market, but it’s a principle I strive to uphold, and it’s a topic for a deeper discussion another time.

While silk undershirts are generally a more significant investment upfront, their durability and superior performance make them well worth the cost. They are designed to last for many years, providing enduring warmth and comfort, and crucially, they leave no harmful microplastic residue in our water systems. This combination of effectiveness, longevity, and environmental responsibility makes them an ideal choice for a sustainable and cozy winter.

I currently own two different brands of silk undershirts and highly recommend both:

• This Terramar shirt from Amazon (pictured above) is exceptionally lightweight and available in versatile black and gray, in addition to the natural shade.
• The Land’s End silk undershirt offers a slightly thicker fabric and a higher crew neck, providing a bit more coverage and warmth.

I’m definitely planning to add a black one to my collection very soon to maximize my layering options for the colder months. These silk layers are truly an indispensable part of my winter comfort strategy.

Aesthetic Home Decor: The Perfect Hanging Planter for Our Shower

When we undertook the renovation of our farmhouse bathroom, tiling the shower all the way up to the nine-foot ceiling was a deliberate design choice, aiming for a clean, cohesive, and expansive look. From the outset, I envisioned adding a touch of natural beauty to the upper corner with a gracefully hanging plant. This would not only soften the stark lines but also bring a calming organic element into the space.

My journey to realize this vision began by rooting cuttings from my daughter’s resilient pothos plant. This plant holds sentimental value, as it was rooted from the original pothos I had nurtured for years before we placed our belongings in storage and lived with family while searching for our new home. The pothos is also one of the few houseplants I can consistently keep alive indoors, making it a perfect, low-maintenance choice for the shower environment.

However, what I anticipated would be a simple task – finding the right hanging planter – turned into a surprisingly long and challenging quest. Many options were either too small for the space, prohibitively expensive, excessively large, or made from unattractive plastic. Furthermore, the hanging mechanisms were often problematic: thick macrame, which wouldn’t hold up well in a damp shower environment, or clunky metal rings and other decorative elements that clashed with my desired minimalist aesthetic. Months would pass between my renewed attempts to find the perfect piece.

Throughout much of this time, my daughter was living with us, and she was keenly aware of my ongoing search. So, it was a truly delightful surprise when she presented me with the ideal solution for Christmas: a simple yet elegant set of creamy white ceramic hanging planters, complete with sturdy ropes perfectly suited to withstand the moisture of a shower. The poor pothos cuttings had been patiently residing in water, rooting for an extended period, so you can imagine their happiness at finally being transitioned into soil!

I absolutely adore the finished look it brings to the shower! The plant adds a vibrant touch of green against the white tiles, creating a serene and spa-like ambiance. Plus, I now have a smaller planter from the set to find a home for – I’m currently envisioning it bringing a welcome touch of greenery to our laundry room, adding a little cheer to an otherwise utilitarian space.

December Reads: A Diverse Collection of Literary Discoveries

Before diving into this month’s specific reads, did you get a chance to explore my list of the 13 Best Books of 2021 yet? It’s definitely worth checking out, as one of the books reviewed below earned a spot on that prestigious list! This December’s reading list is a bit eclectic, reflecting the unique rhythm of the holiday month. While I had less time for physical reading, the abundance of baking, gift wrapping, and travel provided ample opportunities to delve into audiobooks. As I’m systematically working my way through the Inspector Gamache series, I found myself immediately starting the next installment from the library as soon as I finished the previous one, which explains why three Louise Penny novels appear on this list – a first for me!

God and The Pandemic, N.T. Wright

This is a concise yet profoundly impactful book – originally published as an essay, I believe – that serendipitously appeared in my library app after I finished another of Wright’s works. Its timeliness, given the global events, was immediately apparent. Wright delivers a straightforward and deeply biblical perspective on the pandemic, using his characteristic easy-to-understand prose. He consistently guides the reader back to core Christian tenets: the teachings of the Bible, the example of Jesus, and our inherent responsibilities as image-bearers of God. He challenges readers with the poignant question, “What is the church doing to help out their fellow man during this time?” Throughout the book, Wright thoughtfully encourages Christians to respond to the pandemic with prayerfulness, thoughtful consideration, and, above all, profound love. It offered perfect guidance for those of us, like myself, who pondered what our practical, “feet on the ground” response should be in such unprecedented times.

Pardonable Lies (Maisie Dobbs book 3), Jacqueline Winspear

While I generally enjoy the Maisie Dobbs series, this third installment wasn’t my favorite so far. I found myself quite put off by the increased emphasis on Maisie’s engagement with spiritualist elements, her perceived ghost-like connections, and her communion with the dead. In this particular book, there was a greater focus on her uncanny ability to connect with objects, rooms, and deceased individuals to uncover clues and solve the mystery. This spiritualist aspect felt less grounded and detracted a bit from the otherwise compelling historical mystery format.

Despite this, I continue to be drawn to the long-term character development, particularly Maisie’s personal growth throughout the series. I also deeply appreciate the meticulously crafted historical setting, which vividly portrays the profound emotional and societal aftermath of WWI in England. For these reasons, I will definitely continue with the next book in the series, though I might prioritize finishing my current run of Louise Penny books first, as they offer a similar genre but with a different narrative approach.

The Brutal Telling (Inspector Gamache 5), Louise Penny

This installment in the Inspector Gamache series plunges Three Pines into yet another complex mystery when a recluse is found dead, and a main character from the tight-knit village becomes entangled in the investigation. What makes this book particularly engaging is the way it peels back layers of a character you thought you knew intimately, revealing surprising depths and secrets. The discovery unfolds not just for Gamache, but for the entire community of Three Pines, drawing the reader along with them in a shared journey of revelation.

The mystery itself is incredibly intricate and had me second-guessing my theories throughout the entire narrative. Louise Penny masterfully weaves clues and red herrings, culminating in a truly unexpected twist at the very end that I absolutely did not foresee. It’s a testament to her skill as a storyteller, delivering both intellectual intrigue and emotional resonance.

Bury Your Dead (Inspector Gamache 6), Louise Penny

This book, without a doubt, stands as my favorite in the Inspector Gamache series by far. It’s an absolute tour de force, packed with layered narratives, intense emotion, and a masterful unfolding of events that heightens the book’s grip on the reader from beginning to end. The brilliance of this novel begins with a significant, yet initially ambiguous, incident that occurred prior to the book’s opening, involving Inspector Gamache and his team. We are not immediately privy to the details, but we witness the slow, agonizing fallout, which includes both physical injuries and profound mental scars for Gamache.

Adding to the complexity, there’s a compelling continuation of a case from the previous book that was presumed solved, alongside a brand new mystery set in the brutally cold, historic city of Quebec. Gamache has retreated to Quebec City to recover, both physically and emotionally, and the city itself becomes almost another character in the story. Penny’s exploration of the history of old and new Quebec, including themes of discrimination, was utterly fascinating and richly integrated into the plot. The pervasive snow and biting cold of the setting are so vividly described that they contribute significantly to the atmosphere and narrative tension, making this a truly immersive and unforgettable read.

A Trick of the Light (Inspector Gamache 7), Louise Penny

In this seventh installment, the spotlight shines on Clara Morrow, a beloved character whom readers have come to admire and root for throughout the previous books. Clara finally experiences a breakthrough moment with her first successful art show, a culmination of her artistic journey. However, the celebratory atmosphere of the after-party is shattered when a body is discovered in her garden – the victim is someone she knew from her childhood. This personal connection immediately raises the stakes for Clara and for Gamache, who is tasked with investigating the murder.

The mystery surrounding the old friend is well-crafted and engaging, prompting much speculation. However, the ultimate outcome, while logical, felt a tad anti-climactic after the intricate buildup. One of the more poignant aspects of this book for long-time readers is witnessing the marriage of Clara and Peter, a couple we’ve grown fond of, begin to wobble under the strain of the events. I found myself quite sad to see their relationship face such challenges, and I remain hopeful that these trials will ultimately strengthen their bond in future books rather than lead to a complete dissolution. It adds a compelling emotional layer to the ongoing narrative.

Troy, Stephen Fry

Wow! I had heard great things about Stephen Fry’s contemporary adaptations of ancient Greek myths, heroes, and epic stories, so when they were offered during a 2-for-1 Audible sale (narrated brilliantly by Fry himself), I eagerly added them to my digital library. Brian and I chose to listen to “Troy” first – though it’s the third installment he released – during our travels, and it proved to be an incredibly well-researched, thorough, and utterly captivating adaptation of the classic epic.

Fry brings his signature wit and charm, injecting a wonderful amount of humor throughout the narrative. He excels at explaining complex mythological connections and historical contexts, making the ancient stories accessible and engaging for a modern audience. He also skillfully interweaves other relevant myths and background lore, providing a richer understanding of the Trojan War saga. However, be warned: the story is incredibly violent – one can only imagine the visceral impact these tales must have had when recounted around a fire centuries ago. It’s quite intense. And personally, after listening to Fry’s depiction, I have no desire to read anything more about Achilles; he was truly a formidable and often awful character, even by the standards of ancient myths and heroes!

Captivating Screens: Our Latest TV and Movie Recommendations

TV Series Worth Watching:

The Chosen, free on the app (also streaming on Peacock and Amazon). Full disclosure: we initially watched the first episode of “The Chosen” a while ago but didn’t immediately continue with the series. However, after hearing about its Christmas special in theaters (through Fathom Events), we were intrigued, went to see it, and promptly resumed watching the show on the app. And we are so glad we did! Once we gave it another real chance (the initial episodes start a bit slowly, so truly give it time – you’ll get hooked!), we became captivated by its authentic portrayal of the life of Jesus and his disciples. The creators do an incredible job of “filling in the edges” with plausible scenarios and emotional depth that make the ancient story feel incredibly real and relatable (for example, depicting Peter’s wife encouraging him to follow Jesus after witnessing his transformative presence).

We are also deeply impressed by their unique funding model, which relies on crowdfunding and a powerful “pay it forward” philosophy. This approach means that no traditional “upper management” is dictating how the story should be told, allowing for a remarkable level of creative freedom and authenticity in its narrative. It’s truly a series that resonates deeply.

Girls5eva, Peacock. It feels a little unconventional to list this immediately after “The Chosen,” given its slightly crude humor, but this show is genuinely hilarious! With Tina Fey as a producer, you can expect sharp writing and witty observations. I primarily knew Sara Bareilles as an incredible singer, but she delivers a fantastic acting performance. However, it’s Renée Elise Goldsberry, of Broadway’s “Hamilton” fame, who often steals the show with her impeccable comedic timing and stage presence. The premise—a one-hit-wonder girl group from the 90s attempting a comeback—provides endless opportunities for nostalgic humor and relatable struggles as they navigate modern fame and personal growth.

Movie Selections for Your Next Watch Night:

Free Guy (we rented from Amazon, now available on Disney+). We absolutely loved this movie for its refreshingly original concept! It’s an imaginative blend of action, comedy, and romance, delivering a genuinely fun, funny, and sweet experience. What stood out even more were the subtle yet powerful life lessons woven throughout the narrative, encouraging viewers to be the hero of their own story and break free from predefined roles. It’s a feel-good film with unexpected depth.

Miracle on 34th Street (available on Amazon, Disney+, YouTube). This timeless classic was our chosen Christmas movie this year, and it had been quite a few years since we last watched it. Perhaps due to the passage of time, we were quite struck by how much a young girl in the film spends unsupervised time with a male neighbor whom her mother doesn’t even know. The mother often struggles to locate her daughter, only to find her at the neighbor’s house. It was an interesting observation, highlighting how much societal norms and perceptions of child safety have evolved – this scenario certainly wouldn’t be depicted in today’s world without raising eyebrows. Despite this, Natalie Wood’s performance at such a young age was incredibly powerful and realistic, making her a standout in this beloved holiday film.

Animated Grinch 2018 (voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch), Amazon. What can I say about this adaptation? Perhaps that the dog, Max, was undeniably cute? All three of us in our household were largely underwhelmed by this version. The Grinch felt far too nice, which fundamentally undermines the entire premise and conflict of the original story. Cindy-Lou Who came across as surprisingly snarky, a departure from her innocent charm. Furthermore, a major storyline involving her mother’s job and Cindy-Lou’s aspirations for it goes nowhere, leaving a significant plot thread unresolved. While we understand that tastes vary, and we know people who count this among their favorite Grinch adaptations, it simply didn’t resonate with us.

That concludes another delightful edition of the Good Things List!

If you’re eager to discover more of the things I’m enjoying and recommending, you can explore all the previous Good Things Lists right here. I genuinely love hearing from you – please feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts! Let me know if you’ve tried any of these recommendations or if you have some wonderful “good things” you’d like to share with our community. Your input is always appreciated!

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