Discover Your Next Favorite Thing: A Monthly Roundup of Home Improvement, Garden Hacks, Must-Reads, and Top TV Picks

Welcome to our monthly collection of delightful discoveries, useful finds, and engaging entertainment. Each month, we curate a list of good things to experience, create, acquire, read, and watch, designed to inspire and enrich your daily life.

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Hello, March! We are all eagerly anticipating the refreshing embrace of spring that you promise to bring. As the northern hemisphere slowly awakens from its winter slumber, there’s a tangible excitement in the air for warmer days and blooming gardens.

However, before we fully dive into spring, we still have a few more weeks of winter’s chill, marked by persistent rains, occasional snow, and brisk temperatures. This transitional period makes indoor gardening an especially rewarding and enjoyable activity. Whether it’s the simple act of potting up existing houseplants or the hopeful venture of starting garden seeds from scratch, getting your hands into the dirt is a grounding experience. It serves as a potent reminder that life is stirring beneath the surface, poised to burst forth.

One of my absolute favorite discoveries this month revolves around creating an efficient indoor seed-starting station in our farmhouse – and it came about in a wonderfully unexpected way! Beyond this exciting garden hack, I’ve gathered more cherished finds, alongside my honest reviews of recent books and our latest binge-watching sessions. I’m always keen to hear about your favorite discoveries, so please don’t hesitate to share them in the comments below!

Good Things for Your Home & Garden

Office Makeover Project Continues (with a Twist!)

This first “good thing” didn’t exactly start out that way, but it has certainly evolved into a much better outcome! Our ambitious office makeover project experienced a self-imposed delay this month. I had a vision of uncovering tongue-and-groove shiplap beneath the existing wallboard on the large interior wall. This hope stemmed from seeing similar architectural details around exposed doorways and in Brian’s office across the hall. Unfortunately, my discovery revealed big, old-growth wood planks, but they lacked the tongue-and-groove construction, leaving unsightly 1-2 inch gaps between them. To add to the disappointment, there was also a randomly cut door opening, leaving me perplexed as to its original purpose.

Faced with this revelation, a quick pivot to Plan B was necessary. We halted the wallboard removal as soon as we saw the door opening and assessed the underlying section. Our new strategy involved reinstalling a matching sheet of wallboard on the right side, deliberately leaving a central section of the original wood wall exposed. My creative solution was to transform this exposed area into a unique focal point. I envisioned covering the awkward door opening with beautifully reclaimed wood, concealing the gaps with flat molding, and then framing the entire feature wall with square trim to ensure a cohesive and polished look. I know some of you might prefer the raw, unpainted wood, and I understand that aesthetic appeal. However, with those significant gaps leading directly into the wall cavity, practical concerns like cold drafts, inadequate insulation, and potential bug infestations made painting an essential step. It was the only way to seamlessly blend all the new trim, wood filler, and caulk for a truly finished and functional surface.

The wall now boasts this refined appearance. While it blends in more subtly than I initially anticipated, I still find it infinitely more appealing and characterful than a plain wallboard. This wall is destined to be the home for a day bed, and I believe this newly articulated backdrop will provide a lovely, inviting aesthetic. Admittedly, the process of filling, caulking, and painting (raw wood truly absorbs everything!) consumed a surprising amount of time and effort. Nevertheless, what started as a January office project is finally nearing completion in March, now adorned with a unique and charming accent wall!

Revolutionizing Indoor Seed Starting with a New Station

Establishing an effective indoor seed-starting setup has been a recurring challenge since our move to the farmhouse. In our previous cottage, I had a fantastic, dedicated space in the mudroom for nurturing seedlings. However, this new property has presented a series of dilemmas. I initially attempted to use the finished garage, but despite employing a heat mat, the environment proved too cold, resulting in stunted tomato and pepper plants. The garage’s distance from the main living areas also meant I frequently forgot to check on my burgeoning seedlings. Another year, when our daughter was traveling, I ingeniously transformed her room into a DIY light stand setup, which worked well temporarily but was not a sustainable long-term solution. Last year, amidst the chaos of moving into the farmhouse, I opted for a simpler approach, starting only cold-weather seeds outdoors in milk jugs – a method that was surprisingly effective and eliminated the arduous process of hardening off plants, a technique I plan to replicate this year.

Recognizing the need for a more permanent and practical seed-starting solution for the farmhouse, I decided to invest in one of those versatile mini greenhouse shelving systems. My initial thought was to place it in the garage, believing the additional plastic cover might provide sufficient warmth. However, that old problem of “out of sight, out of mind” still loomed. Upon assembly, I was pleasantly surprised to discover how incredibly lightweight the unit was, and even more remarkably, it was the exact size to fit perfectly into a small, previously unused landing area upstairs. As you can see in the photo, it was an impeccable fit – and I hadn’t even measured before purchasing! These happy accidents are truly the best kind.

Currently, I’ve just started pepper and tomato seeds. The inexpensive grow lights I acquired for it weren’t illuminated in the photo because the seeds hadn’t yet germinated (for more details on seed starting, including germination times, check out my comprehensive guide). As the tomato plants grow taller, I anticipate needing to remove the top shelf and relocate them to the second shelf, as the light fixture won’t be able to adjust high enough from the very top. I purchased this convenient set of two grow lights, which fit the width of the shelf perfectly. This is my first time using LED grow lights, having always relied on fluorescent bulbs in the past, so I’m keen to observe their performance. I’ve heard that LEDs tend to dry out the soil less, which would be a welcome benefit.

I am absolutely thrilled to finally have a dedicated and easily accessible spot where I can regularly check on my seedlings, and where they won’t be in the way for the next few crucial months. Once the plants are ready for transplanting outdoors, this lightweight shelf system will be effortlessly moved into the garage for storage until next season. This indoor plant growing station is truly a game-changer for my gardening endeavors!

You can find the Mini Greenhouse Shelving System here and the LED grow lights here.

Stylish & Affordable New Outdoor Pillows

Thanks to a timely share from a blogger friend on Instagram, Kim at Today’s Creative Life, I discovered these fantastic outdoor pillow covers. She was planning some patio updates that included them, and I was immediately drawn to their classic cream and black striped design. The fact that they are remarkably inexpensive – you get two covers in each pack – made them an irresistible find, so I promptly ordered a couple of sets.

These covers are exceptionally well-made from a sturdy canvas material and are marketed as “indoor-outdoor.” While the canvas does a decent job of repelling light moisture, I’m not entirely convinced they would hold up perfectly in a heavy downpour, as they don’t appear to be crafted from specialized outdoor fabric designed for extreme weather. Nevertheless, I absolutely adore their aesthetic and believe they will add a chic and inviting touch to our black iron table and chairs this summer, creating a refreshed outdoor living space.

You can find these stylish pillow covers here.

The BEST Rechargeable Candle Lighter You’ll Ever Own

I honestly can’t believe I haven’t raved about this amazing product sooner! I acquired this particular rechargeable lighter several months ago, and I’ve been so utterly impressed with its performance that I ended up buying them as stocking stuffers for my kids last Christmas! The market is saturated with many similar lighters, and reviews for them are incredibly varied. Many users report issues like premature battery failure, inability to charge, or an irritatingly loud operating sound.

However, a trusted blogger, Jenna Sue Design, recommended this specific Vehhe lighter, vouching for its reliability and lack of common problems. I wholeheartedly concur! This lighter has been consistently sparking for me for months without a hitch. Crucially, it operates with virtually no discernible noise – a significant plus that doesn’t bother our dog, which I’ve heard can be an issue with some other models. I am completely smitten with this device and can confidently say I will never revert to using traditional gas-filled lighters again. Its convenience, eco-friendliness, and silent operation make it an absolute winner.

Discover the USB rechargeable candle lighter here.

Essential Emergency Lighting: Two Types of Innovative Light Bulbs

In anticipation of potential winter power outages, which are a common occurrence in our region, I strategically purchased two distinct types of emergency light bulbs a few months ago. I’ve been thoroughly impressed with their performance and practicality.

The first type, prominently featured above, is a simple yet ingenious rechargeable light bulb. I’ve strategically placed these bulbs in several lamps throughout our home – one in the living room, our bedroom, my office, and the guest room. These bulbs ingeniously charge themselves whenever they are in use. While they aren’t our primary lighting sources, meaning they aren’t continuously on, they maintain a sufficient charge to be ready for emergencies. The truly miraculous aspect occurs when the power unexpectedly goes out: these bulbs automatically illuminate, providing 3-4 hours of crucial light. The very first time this happened, and our lamps remained lit while the rest of the house plunged into darkness, it felt nothing short of a miracle! There was no frantic scrambling in the dark for an emergency lighting box; instead, we had ample time and light to calmly gather what we needed. A particularly thoughtful feature is the included carrying hook, which allows you to remove the bulb from its fixture and use it as a portable light source to navigate around the house. I absolutely love these bulbs and wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone living in an area prone to regular winter power interruptions. My plan is to remove them in the spring and reinstall them again next fall, ensuring they’re ready for the darker, stormier months.

Secure your rechargeable 4-pack light bulbs here.

The second essential bulb is a battery-operated version. While these also proved invaluable during our recent power outage, my initial intention for purchasing them was to illuminate areas that lack electrical fixtures, such as a couple of dark closets and sconces where wiring isn’t available. They feature a straightforward on/off switch and come with a versatile base that can be easily installed on a wall, or you can simply screw the bulb into any existing fixture. An added bonus is the included remote control, which is incredibly convenient for operating bulbs placed in hard-to-reach sconces or other fixtures. Both types of bulbs offer practical, reliable lighting solutions for various household needs, especially when facing unexpected electrical disruptions.

Find the battery-operated 4-pack light bulbs here.

February Reads: Dive Into Diverse Narratives

Until Unityby Francis Chan: I typically devour anything by Francis Chan; his previous books have genuinely been life-altering for myself and many I know. With Until Unity, I certainly grasp his fervent heart for Christian unity and the profound importance he underscores with copious scriptural references. However, the book itself, for me, regrettably fell somewhat flat. Listening to the audiobook, I found his delivery to be overly dramatic – intensely passionate, almost to the point of crying – which, ironically, made it difficult for me to connect with the core message. More critically, I struggled to find practical takeaways or actionable steps beyond the foundational calls to love and pray (I can’t personally resolve complex denominational divides, after all!). It left me wondering if it was perhaps geared more towards church leaders or theologians than the average congregant.

Messenger of Truth (Maisie Dobbs #4)by Jacqueline Winspear: After a brief hiatus from the Maisie Dobbs series (and frankly, growing a bit weary of Inspector Gamache), I decided to pick it up again with this fourth installment. I was quickly reminded why I enjoy these books so much. Jacqueline Winspear is a truly gifted writer, and while a captivating mystery always anchors the plot, it consistently serves as a rich backdrop for profound character development and emotional growth. The setting between the two World Wars offers a fascinating historical context, and this particular book did an excellent job of highlighting the lingering, often devastating effects of war on survivors and their families, adding a deep layer of poignancy to the narrative.

A Single Threadby Tracy Chevalier: I chose this book hoping to recapture the magic I found in Chevalier’s highly acclaimed novel, The Girl With The Pearl Earring. Unfortunately, this was a definite miss for me. While not terrible, the narrative meandered considerably, dedicating an excessive amount of detail to embroidery on church kneelers and cushions, and the intricate art of church bell ringing – to a degree that felt like information overload. Set in a small English town in the 1930s, the heroine, a 30-something spinster grieving her fiancé lost in the war, behaves in a manner that feels anachronistic, almost as if she belongs in modern times, as do some of the supporting characters. The ending was particularly ludicrous for the era, stretching credulity beyond belief regarding what would have been permissible. Overall, it was a decidedly “meh” reading experience.

Hearts West: True Stories of Mail Order Bridesby Chris Enss: A reader’s recommendation led me to this fascinating small book, and given my passion for history, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s perfect for reading a chapter or two at a time, with true stories meticulously gleaned from old newspapers, letters, and other historical documents. Some tales are heartwarming, others are tragic, but all are undeniably amazing. I often found myself in disbelief at some of the events that actually transpired, and it prompted a deep reflection on placing myself in their historical context. While the idea of being a mail-order bride is unfathomable today, I pondered if I would have considered it back then, had it been my sole chance for a different life.

Rejoice & Trembleby Michael Reeves: I chose to listen to this profound book about fearing God during my morning routine, and it proved to be an excellent way to cultivate a mindful and spiritually grounded start to my day. The author meticulously delves into the contemporary understanding of the word “fear” versus its nuanced meaning in biblical texts. Reeves passionately advocates for a re-embrace of “Godly fear,” distinguishing it sharply from human anxiety or dread. He posits that our increasingly fearful society stems directly from a departure from God, contrary to the atheist perspective that greater reliance on science would alleviate such anxieties. As he eloquently writes: “The loss of the fear of God is what ushered in our society of anxiety…and it’s the antidote.” This book offered countless “ah-ha” moments and truly resonated with me – it’s a powerful and highly recommended read.

Once Upon a Devilishly Enchanting Kissby Bree Wolf: Oh, I have to admit, that title is quite terrible, isn’t it? Haha! Despite the cringeworthy title, this turned out to be a sweet, refreshingly clean historical romance that kicks off a series focusing on the various siblings within the main family. Set in the early 1800s, the narrative doesn’t break any new ground in terms of plot or character arcs, but it reliably delivers a guaranteed happy ending without any truly terrible or traumatic events unfolding in between. Sometimes, a comforting and predictable escape is precisely what one needs, and this book delivers just that.

Truevineby Beth Macy: The premise of this true story initially captivated me: two albino brothers allegedly kidnapped in the 1800s to “perform” in circus sideshows. However, the book evolved into a deeper exploration of the Jim Crow South, which, as always, proved to be an eye-opening and sobering experience, and also provided extensive insight into circus sideshows, a world I knew little about. The narrative grapples with complex questions: were the boys truly kidnapped, or did they live a better life than they would have otherwise, as was often the case for many sideshow performers of that era? It was a truly thought-provoking and interesting piece of historical non-fiction.

The Exilesby Christina Baker Kline: You might recall that this author’s previous work, The Orphan Train, earned a coveted spot on my year-end best books list. Regrettably, The Exiles will not be joining it. This book again tackles a fascinating true story (a genre I adore) – this time focusing on convict women transported from England to Australia in the 1800s. While the narrative held my interest, and I appreciate that many characters are based on real individuals, a significant flaw emerged around the halfway mark. The main character, whose journey we had invested five hours in through the audiobook, abruptly ceases to be the protagonist (to reveal why would be a spoiler). The focus then shifts to a new character, a girl we had only briefly met on the transport ship, about whom we know very little. This jarring transition prevented me from ever truly connecting emotionally with this “new” main character in the latter half of the book, leaving me quite irritated with the author’s narrative choice. Furthermore, I believe the author attempted to weave too many disparate stories into this single tale, resulting in none of them receiving satisfying second halves or conclusions. They felt either incomplete or rushed. While I will likely read other books by Christina Baker Kline, this particular one, despite its compelling subject matter, ultimately fell short for me.

Watching: Our Latest Entertainment Picks

TV Series:

Abbott Elementary(ABC &Hulu): I’ve been absolutely loving this show! It’s consistently funny and genuinely sweet, presented in a mockumentary style reminiscent of The Office, where the characters occasionally address a unseen TV crew. The humor is intelligent, the characters are endearing, and it offers a much-needed dose of wholesome comedy. It’s a refreshing watch and I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a lighthearted yet engaging series.

Ted Lasso(Season 2, Apple+): Yes, I know I’m a bit late to the Season 2 party (and yes, I unfortunately already stumbled upon an ending spoiler), but I am still thoroughly enjoying this feel-good show. It offers a wonderful sense of comfort, especially after attempting to watch some heavier or more intense series that simply didn’t resonate. I feel the same soothing satisfaction with PBS’s All Creatures Great and Small, which I also continued watching this month – sometimes, it’s just nice to unwind with something genuinely pleasant and uplifting, isn’t it?

Olympics (NBC): Of course! The Winter Olympics captured our attention. While there weren’t many truly nail-biting moments for us this year, I did find myself unexpectedly cheering for sports I’d never previously considered, like monobob or freeski big air. The sheer athleticism and dedication of the competitors always make for enjoyable viewing, even in unfamiliar disciplines.

Reacher(Amazon): I felt compelled to include this on my list specifically as a strong word of warning. I could only endure two episodes of this series. It is exceptionally violent in a very graphic, disturbing, and frankly, gross way. The attempts at injecting strange humor into such grim scenes felt entirely misplaced and inappropriate, making us question if we were actually supposed to laugh at any of it. Ugh. Moreover, I found the lead actor’s performance incredibly wooden, though I acknowledge that many others seem to disagree, interpreting his portrayal as “stoic.” Proceed with extreme caution if you decide to watch.

Dune(Amazon): Having both read and watched previous adaptations of Dune during my college years, I was eagerly anticipating this latest rendition, and I can happily report that it did not disappoint. I was particularly impressed with the breathtaking visuals and how skillfully they managed to convey the intricacies of the complicated story in an accessible manner. The film brilliantly set the stage, leaving me thoroughly excited and looking forward to Part Two.

I Am Legend (Available to rent on Amazon, watched before Netflix removed it): This is an older Will Smith movie that Brian had always wanted to see. Will Smith’s acting in this film is truly superb, delivering a compelling performance that makes you deeply ponder many aspects of the world and humanity. However, ultimately, the story proved too disturbing for my taste, and in hindsight, several plot points and logical elements simply didn’t make sense or add up, leaving me feeling unsatisfied by the conclusion.

That concludes another delightful edition of the Good Things List!

If you’re interested in exploring more of my favorite discoveries and recommendations, you can browse all previous Good Things Lists here. I genuinely value your thoughts and insights – whether you’ve tried any of these items yourself or have personal recommendations to share. Please leave a comment below; I’d love to hear from you!

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