Monthly Favorites: Discover Your Next Must-Haves for Home, Beauty & Life
Your essential guide to the best things to do, buy, read, watch, and more this month.
Hello, wonderful friends! You might have noticed a slight shift in how I share my favorite finds with you. My intention to publish a monthly “Three Things” article didn’t quite take off as planned, much like its predecessor, the weekly version (which you can still explore here). As I’ve mentioned before, the essence of the “Three Things” format has found a vibrant new home in our exclusive weekly VIP newsletter, tailored specifically for AOC subscribers. This made it a bit challenging to decide what unique content to feature here on the blog without duplicating efforts.
However, I truly missed having a dedicated space on the blog to highlight some of the incredible things I’ve been enjoying – whether it’s a captivating book, an engaging movie, a practical item I’ve purchased, or a memorable experience we’ve had. And I know many of you valued this space too! So, I’m excited to announce a fresh approach and a brand new monthly series: THE GOOD THINGS LIST. This generic yet inviting title gives me the perfect platform to share whatever truly stands out as “good” each month. It’s my personal curated collection of items, experiences, and reads that I genuinely believe you’ll love and benefit from as much as I have. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this month’s discoveries!
(As always, please note that some of the links provided in this post are affiliate links. This means I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through them, at no additional cost to you. Your support helps keep this blog running and allows me to continue sharing valuable content.)
Home Essentials That Make Life Easier
The Surprisingly Powerful & Affordable Vacuum
First on our list might not seem like the most glamorous item, but trust me, this little vacuum cleaner has truly been a revelation! It’s the Black & Decker Lightweight Compact Upright Vacuum, and I first stumbled upon a glowing review of it on one of my favorite blogs. When we moved into our temporary manufactured home while working diligently on our farmhouse fixer-upper, we suddenly found ourselves dealing with a significant amount of carpet. For someone like me, who has openly shared my aversion to carpet, this presented a unique challenge.
This compact powerhouse actually works *really* well – I mean, truly effectively! It once gathered a half-canister of our dog’s hair from the carpet in just a small section of our living room. This wasn’t just a clean; it was a testament to its robust suction power. What’s even more incredible is its price point. While many vacuums on the shelf are priced anywhere from $80 to $300, this gem regularly sells for around $40. And here’s a secret: it frequently goes on sale! The day we decided to purchase it, we scored it for an unbelievable $25! It’s genuinely hard to believe you can find something so inexpensive that performs better than many pricier alternatives.
The only minor downside is that it can be a bit tricky to find in physical stores. Apparently, it’s primarily sold at Target, and when we visited our local store, there wasn’t even an allocated space or tag for it among the other vacuums. We almost gave up until I serendipitously spotted a single box tucked behind some other models. To save yourself the potential headache of an in-store treasure hunt, I highly recommend heading straight to Target.com to order it online. Investing in a good, reliable vacuum doesn’t have to break the bank, and this Black & Decker model is proof of that. It’s a game-changer for maintaining a clean home without the hefty price tag.
The Versatile Galvanized Tiered Tray: Style & Function
Next up are two items that I’ve been absolutely thrilled to finally use in our new home. After living without many of our belongings for 15 months during the farmhouse renovation, both Brian and I have a renewed appreciation for our own possessions! It truly makes you value what you have when you live without it for so long.
The first item is this fantastic 2-tier galvanized metal stand. I originally discovered it at Walmart last summer, part of the Better Homes and Gardens collection, though it’s no longer available there. However, this similar stand offers a great alternative at a comparable price. I’ve admired these tiered trays in countless blogger photos over the past few years, often styled impeccably with charming hot chocolate or coffee stations, delicate plants, or cute kitchen accessories. They always look so magazine-ready!
However, my primary goal was to *really use* it in a practical way. So, I’m sharing it with you exactly as it functions in our daily life – without any elaborate styling. We always have a collection of essentials near our kitchen table: hot sauce, salt and pepper shakers, napkins, and a small jar of our after-dinner chocolates. Before this tray, these items tended to spread out and take over our kitchen peninsula, creating a perpetually cluttered look. This tiered stand has been the perfect solution to contain and organize all these frequently used items.
And you know what? I think it looks absolutely wonderful! It’s incredibly functional and transforms a potentially messy area into an organized and aesthetically pleasing space. While it might not win any Instagram awards for elaborate decor, its utility and the joy it brings me through its sheer usefulness are immeasurable. I encourage you to think about those high-traffic spots in your own home that could benefit from a similar “organizing” touch. It’s an incredibly simple yet effective way to manage clutter and add a touch of charming farmhouse style.
Simplify Dishwashing with the Bubble-Up Brush
The second item I’m loving in our new space is the ingenious Bubble-Up Brush and its accompanying rectangle tray from Grove. This little brush has quickly become my go-to for tackling larger items like stubborn cookie sheets and silicone liners, as well as those dishes I want to wash quickly without filling up the whole sink. Its design is truly clever: a small metal spring mechanism sits at the bottom of the Bubble-Up ceramic dish. When you add water and a squirt of dish soap, then press the brush up and down, it quickly coats the bristles with a generous amount of rich, soapy bubbles.
This process is so quick and efficient, making dishwashing a little less of a chore. An added bonus is that the brush conveniently stays dry in its tray between uses, preventing any lingering dampness or mildew. The rectangle tray itself is a simple yet elegant way to keep things tidy by the sink. Any type of small platter or tray could serve the same purpose, helping to corral various sink-side essentials. My mason jar dispenser for homemade foaming soap fits perfectly right next to it, completing a clean and organized sink area. It’s these small, thoughtful tools that truly make daily tasks more pleasant and manageable.
Beauty & Self-Care Finds
Long-Lasting Lip Color That Stays Put
I’ve also been eager to share a fantastic lip color discovery I made a few months ago. It’s the Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick in the shade “Lover.” This product is a genuine game-changer and, without exaggeration, the first lip color I’ve ever tried that truly lasts almost all day long. And it achieves this remarkable longevity without any of the common drawbacks: no drying, no flaking, and absolutely no need for a separate topcoat tube to maintain its finish.
As we gracefully age, our lips naturally tend to lose some of their natural color and definition. Finding a lip product that can be applied once in the morning and confidently helps me look like I have vibrant lips throughout the entire day has been an absolute delight. It’s a wonderful feeling to know my lip color is still there, whether or not I remember to reapply my favorite Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmer in Fig (which I still enjoy adding on top for an extra touch of shine, especially when I’m heading out).
For everyday wear, I find the formula goes on a bit thicker than my preference, so I usually blot it gently to achieve a more natural, subtle look. However, for special occasions or when I want a bold statement, I leave it on at full strength, and it performs beautifully. My only minor critique is the limited range of shades that appealed to me; many were either too dark or too intensely pink for my taste. “Lover” was the sole color that truly worked well for me, and I do wish they offered some lighter, perhaps browner, nude options. But for now, “Lover” remains a beloved staple in my makeup bag, delivering consistent, long-lasting color that truly lives up to its name.
Journey Through Pages: January Reads
It feels like a while since I last shared my reading adventures with you all – I believe the last time was when I compiled my favorite books of 2017. You won’t believe it, but I’ve already read and listened to an impressive eight books since January 1st! While not every single one was a masterpiece, they all offered something good. Here are the three that truly stood out and captured my interest from January’s stack:
The Austen Escape by Katherine Reay
I am consistently drawn to anything written by Katherine Reay. Her books are a dependable source of fun, quick, and clean reads, making her an author I can always count on for an enjoyable experience. While I still feel that nothing has quite matched the magic of her debut novel, Dear Mr. Knightly, all her works are captivating. They delve into relatable characters and complex relationships, always prompting thoughtful reflection. “The Austen Escape” is no exception, offering a delightful blend of contemporary storytelling with a charming nod to classic literature. It’s the perfect escape for anyone who appreciates witty dialogue, engaging plots, and characters that grow on you. If you’re looking for a heartwarming story that leaves you feeling good, Katherine Reay is an author you absolutely must explore.
Moriarty: A Novel by Anthony Horowitz
This book was a truly unique reading experience. I listened to “Moriarty: A Novel” with Brian during one of our road trips, and we even continued it in the living room once we got home, much like families gathered around the radio in the 1930s and 40s! We’re both big fans of all things Sherlock, from the TV series Sherlock and Elementary, to Brian having read all the original Sir Arthur Conan Doyle books.
What makes this novel particularly intriguing is that it was sanctioned by the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle family as a continuation of the Sherlock Holmes universe, though Sherlock himself doesn’t make an appearance. The story contains a few gruesome scenes that a reader could easily skip if preferred. For most of the narrative, I honestly couldn’t quite grasp where it was heading; it felt a bit “meh” at times, leaving me wondering about its purpose. However, the major twist at the very end completely illuminated everything, bringing the entire plot into sharp focus and making the whole journey worthwhile. That revelation truly made the book, in my honest opinion. If you enjoy intricate mysteries, the world of Sherlock Holmes, and a narrative that keeps you guessing until a shocking conclusion, then I think you’ll find this novel to be a compelling read.
When We Were The Kennedys by Monica Wood
“When We Were The Kennedys” is a beautifully crafted memoir that transports you back to the 1960s, chronicling the author’s childhood after the loss of her father. The title itself is poignant, drawing a parallel between their family’s experience and the national grief surrounding the Kennedys. This book paints a vivid and wonderfully nostalgic picture of life during a different era, offering a gentle glimpse into a time that feels both familiar and long past. It’s also deeply rooted in small-town life, illustrating how much things have fundamentally changed for communities like the one depicted in Maine.
What I particularly appreciated about this memoir is its absence of darkness, weirdness, or disturbing scenes. Instead, it offers a sincere and heartfelt remembrance of a time and a way of life that I could personally relate to, which likely contributed significantly to my enjoyment. If you’re looking for a quiet, reflective read that evokes a sense of nostalgia for a simpler past and explores themes of family, community, and coming of age, Monica Wood’s memoir is a truly good choice. It’s a comforting journey back in time that resonates with universal human experiences.
I also took the time to reread “The Broken Way” this month. I truly feel it’s a book I need to revisit annually from now on. Its powerful message serves as a vital reminder that we are all broken in various ways, yet God uses our brokenness for good. This perspective helps us remember not to let our imperfections undo us or define who we are. It’s a message of grace, resilience, and finding purpose in our vulnerabilities, making it an essential read for continuous personal reflection and spiritual growth.
Entertainment & Inspiration
“The Greatest Showman”: A Movie for Pure Joy
Finally, I want to leave you with a recommendation for a truly delightful movie: “The Greatest Showman.” I honestly just thought it was a fun, fun, FUN movie! Yes, it’s true that the story itself is highly fictionalized and doesn’t adhere strictly to historical facts – a quick search revealed just how much creative license was taken. And the music, while incredibly catchy and inspiring, is definitely not from the same era in which the movie is set. But sometimes, historical accuracy takes a backseat to pure entertainment, and this film masterfully delivers on that front.
The soundtrack is so good that I’ve since listened to it countless times, and it never fails to uplift my spirits. I have a deep appreciation for movies that are made simply for the sake of pure enjoyment, and “The Greatest Showman” perfectly embodies that ethos. It’s a vibrant, energetic, and visually stunning musical that will leave you with a smile on your face and a song in your heart. If you’re in the mood for an inspiring story (even if loosely based on fact), incredible music, and a genuinely good time, then this is the perfect movie to watch. It’s a celebration of dreams, acceptance, and the power of imagination.
Share Your Own Good Things!
So, there you have it – our very first installment of The Good Things List! I truly hope you enjoyed discovering these favorites and perhaps found something new to try or inspire you. Your thoughts and feedback are invaluable to me. I’d absolutely love to know what you think of this new series and what kind of content you’d like to see more of in the future. Is there anything specific you’d like me to review, research, or list here? Please share your own “good things” in the comments below – let’s make this a community hub for sharing delightful discoveries!
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