Hey, hey Friday!
I’m bracing myself for a hot weekend over here. Summer is all fun and games until it’s 100 degrees outside and just walking to the car is excruciating. I see a popsicle in my future for sure! I hope you’re gearing up for a fun weekend too!
Just like every week, I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea and sharing my favorite things.
I hope you all have a wonderful Friday!!!
First up this week, thanks to several of your recs, I squeezed in…
…this Taylor Swift documentary this week. It’s only an hour and a half on Netflix, and I found it very interesting to watch. I particularly loved how it showed her song writing process. That part really showcased her natural talent and pure genius (crazy fascinating to me!). I love watching things like this!!!
Quick question for you, speaking of music…I went for a run this week and put on ’90s music on Pandora…BUT I really feel like I skipped every single song that came up.
What?
I am a child of the ’90s.
My formative years were all during the 1990s.
Those were my years!
So, why did I hate every song on that station???
Someone please tell me what I should be listening to!!! Every song was a little too…Third Eye Blind…and really and truly, that doesn’t do it for me when I think back to that time in my life. Any Pandora station recs?? I’ll take them!
This week’s post…
…about my Scents of Summer was SO MUCH FUN!!! I didn’t see two of these when I first published the post, so I wanted to share them here. If you want to try mini sets of three of my favorite fragrances (from that post), you can get these…
…all of the classic Replica scents are in this one box set. I ended up buying this for myself after Tuesday’s post too!
If you’ve wanted to try Juliette Has a Gun (I use her Not a Perfume fragrance), you can get that HERE.
Or you can grab…
We are going to be smelling so good this summer 🙂 .
Speaking of smelling good…
…after Tuesday’s post, I had several of you ask me what scents Andrew wears, so here they are.
Now, let me be honest…he was super compliant and told me his top three fave, but when I asked him how he would describe each one, he said “nice”. I literally said “No, are they woodsy, citrusy, lighter or maybe musk?”, and again, he said “they smell nice”.
#men
#sigh
I looked up all three and here’s what the people online say about each of them. For the record, my sweet husband always smells “nice”, so I guess he was accurate with that 😉 .
MR. BURBERRY: Warm, woodsy, light with fresh notes of spicy cinnamon and patchouli.
BURBERRY TOUCH: Refreshing with notes of mandarin tree and violet leaves, nutmeg, Virginia cedar wood and white pepper to add warmth
L’IMMENSITE: Ginger, grapefruit, and amber.
Now, he also started using this years and years ago, and it’s always a staple in our shower…
…this body wash here is a staple in all of the men in our family’s showers. There hasn’t been a holiday or birthday in probably the last 5 years when my mom hasn’t gifted this. It smells very “nice”, so Andrew uses it year around.
Anyone else just love peaches????
Peach season is one of our faves, so today, I’m sharing my 10 Perfectly Peachy Recipes for you! There is nothing in life better than a ripe peach. Also, there is nothing in life worse than a peach out of season. #noflavor While it’s peach season, you need to make some of these recipes!!
One last little thing before I go… I wanted you to know that you might notice me “faking it” a bit around here, and I hope that’s okay with you. Andrea posted this on her Instagram last week, and it totally spoke right to my soul…
…yessssssssss!
I always like to write my new recipes six weeks in advance, so on Wednesday morning when I saw on my calendar that I needed to start prepping and writing both back to school and apple recipes, I wanted to skip right on over that just like I skipped right on over a lot in the spring and summer…because I just wasn’t into it. Everything is so chaotic, nothing is “normal”, life looks different, no one knows what the future holds, everyone has mixed opinions and my house is a disaster, BUT I stopped myself and said “Nope Shay, working on fall stuff is your favorite thing to do, so do not let this situation rob you of the joy”.
And I’m not.
My kids might have to do school from home.
My kids might go and wear masks and everything might look different.
I might have a thriving travel agency…or it could still be all upside down.
My house is a disaster and won’t be “pumpkin perfect” this fall.
BUT I AM GOING TO KEEP ON KEEPIN’ ON.
This next season, I’m going to light my pumpkin fall candles. Watch When Harry Met Sally and Hocus Pocus on repeat. I’m going to move over the mess and make both back to school recipes and apple ones too. Because if this is the “new” normal, I want to have a happy attitude, count my blessings and enjoy the simple things in life that give my home joy. I feel like you guys get enough real world in the real world, so if you want to catch some happy nonsense, I’m going to be your place for that this fall. I know it’s still only July, but it’s that six week mark for my writing and planning…so I’m going to gear up now so that we can celebrate this season despite how different things look. I just wanted you to know. I’m committed to being happy on here. We’re all coping in some way this year with the curve ball life has thrown us, and for my own mental health/attitude/optimism/way to stay positive, I’m going to celebrate the season (even if it’s upside down) 🙂 .
Speaking of being happy, it’s Friday.
I’m going to go enjoy my weekend now! xo
Becca Butler says
Try listening to the Pandora station called 80s Throwback 90s Comeback or listen to Hip Hop BBQ!! Just make sure your edit button is on just in case!!! I’m a 90s girl myself and these stations take me back!! Enjoy!!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you so much!!!!
Kelly Franks says
I was going to say BBQ Hip Hop. I like 90’s Hip Hop too. I am not a fan of “alternative” music and I feel like that is all people associate with the 90’s. I also like 90’s country.
Diane Scott says
Thank you, Shay, for being your real self with us. We all (at least I do) fake” it at one time or another during these strange days. Your blog is a happy place for me and I appreciate you sharing whatever is going on in your life. Thankfully I can put my faith in the One who made me and try to look at the positive in this day. And take it one day at a time? ❤️
Dana K says
I feel you on that saying above. I’m a first grade teacher in Florida…2 weeks until teachers go back and we have no idea if we’re starting on time, delaying the first day of school, and/or doing school completely online. I also have my own daughter that will be a first grader and she will absolutely HATE elearning again. So I’m just trying to breathe and put a positive spin on elearning for her sake.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh mama, it’s all so hard. xo
Laura says
I hear ya…My soon to be second grader heard she will probably be doing online learning again, and she was so upset! She said it was more work than what she did at school ? So that makes me super pumped to do it all over again! ? Makes me think of Cheer…”We can. We will. We must!” Ha! I think I need that on my coffee mug!!
Becky says
Attitude is everything! I’m over here trying to work from home just got married last month and husband moved in with all his stuff and I’m feeling so oberwhelmed. Not to mention everything is chaos right now. I put on a smile and praise God for each day!
Shannon M says
I enjoy your blog for its positivity but I also appreciate your admission of frustration and disappointment because it’s authentic. You’re great at what you do! We can handle the truth:)
Rachel Gensburg says
Shannon
This was perfectly said. I agree. I appreciate the positive and consistent, but sometimes …..raw and honest is the way to go to bet back to positive. We will take it all Shay!!!! Your truth on rough days help is know how to lift you in prayer.
Shannon B says
I agree too. Shay, your positivity is awesome and infectious. It’s totally understandable and real to feel off or down about things that are out of your control. Many hugs xo
Erika Slaughter says
I’m cracking up because I’m certain I’d be describing fragrances like Andrew!!! hahahahahaha!
Mix and Match Mama says
I just LOL!
Beth Knecht says
Life is so complex these days. While I love authenticity, I think we all are faking it right now. Which is a-okay. Sometimes you just gotta do, what you gotta do. I’m so grateful to come to this happy spot each morning. In a world where now I refuse to turn on the news, I’m happy to open your blog each day!
Laura says
Thanks so much for your thoughts and honesty. My SIL just turned 50 and I asked her for what she learned in life. She said, “we make our own happiness each day.” And you’re totally doing that! I was JUST thinking that while we won’t have football, hayrides, or so much more, we can still do cozy seasonal food at home this fall ❤️ PS I love Red Hot Chili Peppers on spotify. PPS made and shared your oatmeal peach cobbler this week! Amazing!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Ahhhh!! I’m so happy you shared it! And yes, we can make our own happiness if we chose!!!
Lindsey says
I have always found your determination to be inspiring. I am going to borrow a drop of it today bc mine has all run out
Mix and Match Mama says
Sending you love and big hugs!!!!
Brea says
Your little space gives me normalcy. To talk about or see new things despite what is going on feels good. So thank you. I had a pastor tel me once to not despise the season you are in because the way you leave one season will determine the way you walk
In to the next season of your life. This has really stuck with me. as of now I’m just trying to stay a float right now. I’m trying hard to see the good and positive but like everyone else some days just are hard to do so. My kids are little (5, 4 and 2 year old twins). I know these are supposed to be fun times and will fly by fast but some days it’s just survival mode.
Tija says
First time to comment, but have been following your blog for several years now!! I think so many have struggled with mindset and adjusting to these times. Thank you for being honest and being YOU. I think your blog brings together a community and is a fun place to visit every day!?
Side note – my husband and I visited McKinney, TX a few years back. We walked around the town square and got some lunch. Very cute town!! I can see why you love it!
Enjoy the weekend!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m so happy you commented today!! Sending you much love!! Come back and see us again soon!! xo
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
Oh man, you’re speaking to me right there at the end. I’m at middle school teacher and I feel like we’re all as stressed as parents are. You’ve really convicted me of my attitude and I know I need to do so much better focusing on the positive instead of all the negatives–thank you, Shay for that!!!
https://meettheshaneyfelts.com/2020/07/friday-faves-27.html
Lisa D says
I’m a mom to a wonderful 2nd grade teacher, and Nana to a 2nd grader and a preschooler (we also have a new grandson). I try to have a positive attitude about back-to-school for the sake of my loved ones but this season is just hard! And it’s ok to admit that but not ok to live in that “difficult place” attitude. What helps me is taking a praise and prayer morning walk and being grateful for what we DO have. But you mamas are in the trenches and no way is this at all easy! Sending prayers….
Cara says
Love this! My fave pandora station right now is Alabama Shakes. Soooo good!
Laura says
Amen! ?
And I also Lol’d at how “nice” Andrew’s colognes smelled…my husband is the same way! Just one adjective needed! ?
April Thompson Parrish says
Definitely need your determination & positivity right now. I’m in N.C. and own a dance studio- we are still shut down. There are so many uncertainties right now. Praying for you in this season also. God’s got this!
Shari says
I definitely come to your blog for a little slice of happy each day! Thanks for providing that to us, even during your chaos! Grateful for you Shay!
Megan says
Download Spotify and listen to “Have a Great Day!” It’s not exactly 90’s hits, but top hits in general from pre-2000’s. Seriously the best playlist I’ve ever listened to! I play it on my work computer and have received so many compliments on it!
Also, keep up the positive attitude! You’re doing a great job! Your kids will appreciate it! ❤️
Lori says
Thank you! Music is a move lifter for sure and I just added this to my favorites. So good!!
Katie S. says
Jock Jams is my favorite station to get that 90s music that reminds me of childhood. It’s 90s, it’s upbeat, and great for working out!
I’m a teacher/mother of an incoming kindergartener. We are still waiting to hear what our district’s plan is. We are very rural,’and I just can’t see us starting back online. I’m pregnant, with a 2 and 5 year old. Mentally, I need to work. However, the thought of bringing home this virus to my family and unborn child, nope!
Tara G. says
I just got my box of peaches from The Peach Truck. They’re like candy. ❤
Paula says
Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain.
Philippians 2:14-16
What keep telling myself and children!
Lorelei Boyett says
70’s music is always the way to go!!!
Alice H says
Hip hop bbq on Pandora is my favorite and I was born in 1982 – it can be a little inappropriate for kids sometimes lol
Alice H says
And also I am with you about being positive through all of this! It is a crazy freaking world we are in and there are too many what-ifs and rules these days!
Kelly Bonner says
As a teacher I agree completely with what you shared. Sure school will look very different f this year, but we as parents set the tone. As my husband reminds me often, (usually when I’m freaking out & don’t know how I’ll make this year work as a kindergarten teacher) it won’t be like this forever! Also as our superintendent said when he addressed our district, please show the teachers in your life grace this school year. We want it to be a great school year, but we’re scared too! ?
Robyn says
Have you watched Athlete A on Netflix? It’s not an easy documentary to watch but it very interesting if you like gymnastics on the Olympic level. I had no idea what happened to Maggie Nichols at the Olympic Trials.
Lindy says
Have you tried the app Rock my Run? I like it!
Cindy Davis says
You watched Manda choose faith and joy day after day, month after month and year after year during the darkest and most chaotic time of her life. Was it easy? Did she like it? NO! Did she want her normal life back? YES! We tend to want to be in control of our lives. Joy, happiness, & peace come when we surrender to God and let go of trying to control everything.
Which goes back to you choosing to be happy during such chaotic times.
Choosing joy in our trials is a beautiful way of Praising God!!! Trusting Him even when we don’t understand.
Hugs,
???
Mix and Match Mama says
Love you so much, Cindy!!! Manda ALWAYS choose joy. And faith. And LIFE. No matter her circumstances, she taught me more about living to the fullest than anyone I’ve ever met. Miss her every day. xx
Kelly says
What a powerful comment! Thank you so much for sharing <3 God bless you and sweet Manda!!
Meg says
Pop Fitness station on Pandora! It’s my favorite workout station. Enjoy your weekend!
Concetta says
Have you tried Spotify? I feel like there’s way more variety than Pandora. You can specify 90s rock, 90s rap, 90s r&b, and so on…..We are the same age and the early 2000s do it more for me lol!
Sheaffer Sims says
I wish Andrew would have “woodsy and musky with mandarin undertones”. Wouldn’t you have been so impressed? Ha!
Mix and Match Mama says
Okay, you’re right…I would have been shocked. Hahaha!
Heather G says
Pandora has Yacht Rock Radio! Great music!
Abbey says
I’m so glad you loved Miss Americana!
And I just had that same thought except mine was with Today’s Hits on Pandora and I thumbs downed 90% of them. Sign of growing older? Ha! I highly recommend Amazon Music though…there stations seem to be much better than Pandora IMO!
Abbey says
*their stations. I guess I need to go back to school too! 😉
Jill says
For 90’s music stations, try 90’s pop instead or 90’s r&b. Those will bring about the songs you loved and remembered.
Also, I love the honestly. Right now everyone is doing some form of faking it because it’s so weird and strange. Life is different for our kids and we have to take this time to explain to them too many big things. So we fake a sense of ok to keep ourselves ok.
My son said to me the other day “I am going to be in the history books”. In all this, he thought that was going to be pretty cool. He would have a story to tell. I hope with all my heart that I made it the best experience he could have had in the situation we were in.
Ramona says
Darling. We are all pretty much faking it these days but not in a bad way. You are a light … a bright spot in this mad crazy world in which we are all living lately. You make me read more. You make me bake more. You make me put on makeup more. I could go on and on. Never lose sight of just how many people’s lives you touch. So, thank you.
Raquel Whatley says
It’s all so hard. All the disappointments and cancellations and chaos. I had a break down moment last week and just felt overcome with sadness. Of course I did this when I was by myself but I guess a good cry now and then is okay. We had to make a decision about school for our kids and they will be 100% distance at least for the foreseeable future. Trying to balance work, and teaching school will be a challenge but we will make it fun. I know the Lord is always working for our good, so I have to keep the faith and trust that He is doing just that. This blog is a happy place for me so thank you for that and thank you for sharing your heart/challenges/struggles with us.
Kerrie says
I’m a huge fan of the Gen-X station on Amazon Music. Good mix of ’80’s and ’90’s music. Hope you enjoy too!
Rebecca Lingerfelt-Brown says
I second everything you said but will add this bit of wisdom from my vantage point. Momma does set the tone and keeps all the plates spinning in the air all the time but Momma needs a break occasionally. If ya gotta cry, go to your yard, car, closet and weep, then shake it off and put your smile back on and start all over again. I know your faith carries you moment by moment, as endless as all this seems, it will end and the hope is your family looks back knowing your grew closer to The Lord and each other. You just really can’t ask for more. But know in the meantime this Grandmommy prays for the mommas (and the daddys) to have the strength, wisdom and health to see this through.
Can’t wait for the fall recipes!?
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you for that wisdom and your vantage point, Rebecca! Spot on!!
Megan says
Thank you for being positive! My oldest is supposed to start kindergarten and she could not be more excited. My momma heart hurts thinking it won’t be the same for her. But she will follow my lead so therefore my positive pants are on and I’ll do everything in my power to make it as normal as I can for her ☺️
sandi says
Megan, I’m on the other end of the spectrum… My oldest will be a senior! He is trying to play soccer in college and it’s a bummer that there may not be a soccer season. His last game may have been last year and we didn’t even get to recognize it. But the Lord knows and has everything in control… that’s what I have to keep thinking.
Jess Wade says
My go-to stations on Pandora are “Hip Hop BBQ” and “90’s Alternative”. I’m 40 if that gives you an age reference. Not sure exactly which 90’s station you were listening to and maybe the “90’s Alternative” one I absolutely love might be too Third Eye Blind for you, but sharing anyway.
Kelly Warner says
If you purchase the Juliet Has A Gun sample set right from their website, you get a few more samples for the same price. Plus they give you a $25 off coupon code for you first full size order, great deal!
Shirley G says
Thank you so much for the honest encouragement. Today is our district deadline to choose school as in person or virtual online for entire semester. And as a mom with three kiddos in elementary and high schools, it’s just soooo hard. I am chasing the guilt afraid of making wrong choice. But you are right, choose and get in it for our kiddos! I want them to feel from me and my actions like I made the BEST choice at the time so I’ve gotta get in the game! Thank you for being so real ?.
Erin Hill says
I’m so glad I have a little one that I don’t have to worry about school, but I love your sentiment because it is so spot on! Also, I happened to smell a fall candle when I opened my linen closet and thought – is it too soon? Can I just start burning them now? A carmel apple can be summer too right? Right?? Hahahaha
Amy says
Try Pandora’s station 80’s cardio for working out. It’s great and upbeat. For 90’s, I use 90’s Hip Hop or Hip Hop BBQ stations.
Diane says
I just want to say thank you so much for your blog and sharing your family and life with us, because it really does make my mornings more happy! Especially with all of the unhappiness in our world these past several months and with the stresses of online learning at home and balancing work and family life… your blog is always such a welcome escape that I look forward to every morning! And it always inspires me to make my home cozy, enjoy the little moments more, and truly cherish these years when my girls are still little, so thank you! And btw even though they may look different this year, I’m already excited for the fall posts! <3
Katie Compton says
Thank you sharing your heart! I’m a 2nd grade teacher and have a middle school daughter and I’ve seen such negativity about the upcoming school year! I’m a working parent too and I’m just as stressed. But we have to stay positive for our kids… mine at home and mine at school! I saw something the other day that has become my motto “Stop trying to calm the storm and focus on calming yourself. The storm will pass.” Happy Friday, Shay!
Cindi says
I’m a 62 year old first time grandma to be! Our identical twin boys are due in November. Fall is our favorite time of year, too! We’re so thrilled about the babies, but even that doesn’t totally keep away the blues of this season…I think all of us have to “fake it to make it” sometimes as we wait out this pandemic. But those of us in Christ have a Hope that goes beyond seasons, favorites and yes, even babies! That He gives us blessings during this time shows His mercy, grace and extravagant love! Bless you Shay, for encouraging all mamas, regardless of their season in life! This “Mimi to be” thanks you! ❤️
Dana says
Aww…I love this comment!
Paige E says
Yes, friend YES! I have turned the same corner and have just decided I’m determined to make the best of things no matter what they look like. I drove myself crazy in spring stressing over the school thing and I just can’t do it anymore. Nothing changed with my worry, except I had a bad attitude and my kids caught it. Its a daily choice, but I’m going to be positive about it and we are going to do whatever is needed to get through it. Hang in there! “This is tough dear, but again so are YOU!”
Jamie says
My 11 year old and I turned 25lbs of fresh Georgia peaches into jars and jars of freezer jam this week. It’s a household favorite!
Elspeth says
I love your post about perfume and I totally understand faking it sometimes, we are all going through it and it’s so good to know that we are not alone.
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Michelle O says
Aren’t you glad that Mother Nature doesn’t have to follow the “rules” of the times? The seasons will come and go, and will be as beautiful and magical if you let it. Fall/Autumn is my favorite weather season with the crisp air, leaves changing colors and the time to enjoy the beginning of the holidays…Pumpkins (yes, they get a nod), Halloween and Thanksgiving. I stop and look around at the beauty of nature and the changing of the season’s, and I see the blessing that is all around us…and it is a blessing everyone can enjoy no matter where you are or what you are going through. Shay, I wish you and your family peace, health and love…and pumpkins!
Mix and Match Mama says
I love this comment so much, Michelle!! Hugs and pumpkin spice back to YOU!!
Kristi says
I love Mellow 80’s Gold and Mellow 90’s Gold on Amazon.
Alexa says
I noticed Bath and Body Works just released their fall candles! There will probably be a Caramel Pumpkin Swirl in my cart for a little smile for my Friday. 🙂
Also I’m currently picking paint colors out too. Going back to look at the comments from yesterday’s post; I hope there are some helpful tips there!
Mix and Match Mama says
They did?! I might need to get some to put me in the mood!!!
Brooklyn says
I’m not sure your style in music, but I’m your age and I’m also a runner. When I go running, I need Usher to tell me to move 😉 I’ve made my own “Run” playlist on Pandora. If you want a station “Justin Bieber and Ed Sheeran” station and “Pitbull” station if you like catchy fast paced music. For easy Sunday runs I like “The Cure” station. Hope that helps!
Alison T. says
90’s music is my jam! I’m a class of 99 girl and I love the nostalgia – even if some of the music is actually pretty bad. Lol. I usually listen to the I Heart Radio app when I run. They have a great 90’s station and it plays without commercials. The only thing is, you can’t skip songs like Pandora. But, if you find a couple stations you like you can just flip in between them (it will show what’s playing before you switch so you don’t even have to waste your time it it’s not a song you want to hear).
Alexis deZayas says
Not gonna lie… when I saw the orange colors all over your recipe post today I thought it was fall themed and got WAY too excited! I’m in the midst of figuring out what my wedding is going to look like during this season so am all for coming here for all the happy! Thank you for continuing to share that with us!
Jen says
I’m a firm believer in “fake it til you make it.” You can do this!! Acting happy is sometimes half the battle towards actually being happy. Hang in there!
Beth Valenta says
I love the simple joys Shay! My girlfriend sends one positive thing to do a day to our group, and it works! From your favorite candle, eating peaches, to listening to your favorite song. Fall can’t come soon enough, and I know as a school counselor I will embrace school differently but with my usual optimism. Keep your posts coming…they make my day. 🙂 Happy Friday!
Suzy says
If you want – try downloading Spotify – there are millions of play lists for all genres – you can play top 100 hits from the 90s or just type in 90s playlist and see hundreds that were made with the songs listed – and choose what you might like. I was a Pandora girl forever…but Spotify really has so much more to offer. Have a Great weekend! (And you’ve inspired me to stay positive – thank you!)
Kayla says
As always, thanks for just being you Shay! I’ve followed you for a while now and I feel like I relate a lot to you….I feel like we both like to be in control of the situation and want things to run smoothly and with routine…..enter 2020!! ??
With that being said it was very refreshing to see your post today on positivity and finding your own joy. I’m currently in my own little quarantine in my own home as I await my COVID results…I have three kiddos who are used to me taking care of everything and I can’t even hug them right now…talk about feeling out of control! ? I know there are so many who are going through worse, but like you said I think it’s important to try to focus on the good and positive no matter what. Your words were just what I needed today…so thank you!
Leah says
6 weeks ago I said “if the holidays are still like this I wont be happy”. BUT here we are and I have three perfect kids and for them the holidays will be happy. So I am focusing on what I can control and making our days as positive as can be. Even if I have to take some time alone occasionally to stop and accept the sadness I am feeling.
I cannot wait to read all things pumpkin over here 🙂
Molly says
Shay, I’ve followed you for about 6 years now and I’ve never been more moved by one of your posts than I was today. I’m at 28 year old high school teacher from Florida, and I’m terrified about all of the unknowns of going back to school. I like my routine and I loathe change. But your DECISION to be positive is exactly what I needed to see to remind me that JOY is often a CHOICE! I’m going to pray to have parents like you and Andrea this year and I’m going to try to match your attitude in my classroom. I’m going to choose joy, because we’ve already lost too much to lose that too! Thank you for sharing your heart ❤️
Mix and Match Mama says
God bless you and your classroom this year, Molly!!!
Lindsay @ Lindsay's Sweet World says
You have the absolute best attitude, Shay, and that’s why I love you! You are such a light! And for Pandora stations, you would definitely love the Jazz for Studying station. It’s all I listen to on there. It’s all old standards and you can’t help but feel good when you listen to it.
Julie Bradford says
search 90’s, 2000’s, todays hits radio.. that’s one of my stations and it’s a hit in our office!! I’ve got everyone hooked… I enjoy it during work b/c it takes me back to high school and college! I sure hope we can start back to school in the classroom even if it looks a little different.. I feel so bad for the teachers and the unknown for them! Have a great weekend!
Anna Phillips says
When all of this quarantine started, and I found myself feeling down, I subscribed to Beth Moore’s YouTube channel, and started watching one of her episodes per day. She has one series called “Taking Happy Back” that is sooooo good! The episodes are only about 25 mins long, yet contain so many good nuggets!
Mix and Match Mama says
I love me some Beth Moore! I need to watch these!!
Dana says
There’s a new Hocus Pocus Ravensburger game coming out this year, which is probably going to be the highlight of 2020 😉
Jennifer says
My formative years were 80’s & 90’s. Loved 80’s music, hated 90’s. Now, sit down for this. The mid 90’s is when I gave up on pop/rock & turned to country. I’m pretty sure you don’t like country. Therefor, I cannot help you. ?. Also, I ducked in Bath & Body Works yesterday & they had some Fall candles out. I got my favorite, Pumpkin Apple. Fall always makes things better. I’m also mourning what back to school will look like. And this year I’m sending my oldest to college so it will really look different.
Julie says
Love to you Shay! I always rely on your site to cheer me up and start my day off right. Thanks for being a positive force in all of our lives.
Diane says
I look forward each morning to reading your blog. I love how you share your life with us, whether it’s good or not so good but real! I was a travel agent/manager for 28 plus years and I feel for you during this crazy time. I can’t imagine what you must be going through as an agent/owner. Thanks for all that you do….
Dana says
You know, I found your blog after living overseas for about 2 years. I was miserable. I was doing my best to embrace what I had, but it was so hard. The Lord used you and your blog as such a bright spot in my day and really helped me get through that time. Your (and your friends’) happy little blog posts have helped keep me going on enjoying the little things in my life and embracing life with our kids. So I don’t see it being fake at all, I see it as looking for the things we have to be thankful for in the midst of living in a sin-fallen world. I am so glad you have kept up with your blog all these years! And I look forward to your posts about fall and all things apple and pumpkin as well! It puts a smile on my face just thinking about it. 🙂
Megan Jeffries says
I’ve noticed some times pandora isn’t reading the room (I.e. what I’m in the mood to listen to that day), usually after a few skips she figures it out though. I usually love my 90’s pop station! I think we all resonate with trying to get through this as best and happy as we can.
Kelly Davis says
As much as I always wanted my girls to stay little, I cannot tell you how often my husband and I have said we are so thankful they are college age and not dealing with all this crazy. My heart hurts for all the Moms who have so much to process and miss… not just school, but summer camps, and summer fun with littles (every season is so precious!)… I just know it isn’t easy at all. You are SO right, Momma sets the tone, and I would add that I don’t even see what you are doing as faking it… I see it as you controlling your attitude and not letting your feelings rule you! That may be challenging, but not fake at all. You inspire me, too. We have faced some excruciatingly hard seasons for several years, and I lost so much because I was paralyzed in the midst of it. I started choosing joy in the hard, and even when things didn’t change, I found my heart reawakening. It is even more important when kids are watching- so good for you! Praying for us all.
Dana says
I love watching your stories and reading your blog because you keep it real!! Showing your positivity and vulnerability is authentic and I think makes us all not feel alone out here in this chaotic world right now! Thanks for being a bright spot in my day!! I listen to Spotify and I listen to praise music during exercise…it helps lift my spirits and get my praise on!!
Leigh says
I recently read a similar poem for teachers and have really taken it to heart as a 2nd grade teacher. We’re going back in 2 weeks. As sad as I am for these kids to not have the “traditional” school experience, they’re really not old enough to be so ensconced in how school usually looks. The longer I think, “I really wish I could still have our cozy couch and arm chairs” or “I love tables, not desks” the harder it will be for me to be able to adjust myself or lead for others. I will continue to pray we stay healthy and well despite the challenges. I don’t want these kids or their parents to look back on that horrible 2nd grade year and I know it’s in my power to prevent it!
Vivi Mackenzie says
I missed your Scents post, but I will definitely go back and read it now. I don’t like heavy scents, so a lot of popular perfumes are too much for me. I am simple… I just like to smell CLEAN…like I just got out of the bath or shower. So it’s fitting that I found the scents line called CLEAN. They smell like soap! They have different ones like Shower Fresh and Clean Laundry. I like the original scent the best. I have found them at Sephora and online at Amazon. 🙂
Leslie S says
Thanks for being a bright spot Shay! My 41 year old you get sister is battling breast cancer, we had an ac leak in our BRAND NEW HOUSE – que the fans and dehumidifiers (tho it was nothing compared to your situation) we lost a bathroom and had a lot torn up but the builder refused to put us back together until June due to covid. This has been a banner year for most of us. I’m so excited to know you’ll be posting pumpkins, apples, fall fun, family, and positive content this fall — so nice to see God’s goodness in the small things and to be grateful for where we are and what we have, and to work for JOY!! Love reading your blog. I hope you’ll continue making book recs this fall too… maybe 2 a month tho b/c lets be real, we will be curled up with Hallmark movies too ?
Mix and Match Mama says
I am so sorry about your sister, Leslie. I am just really so sorry. xo
Tiff says
And we will be right there celebrating fall along with you, in this craziness together!
Diana says
Thank you for bringing us something happy in times like this! ? and fall is my very favorite, too, so I cannot wait to see fall posts you will share!
Megan says
Attitude is EVERYTHING! And sometimes you have fake it to keep your sanity, help your kids and keep things moving and that’s ok! Thanks for being honest about it though. Looking forward to Fall and all the usuals around here!
J says
You go, girl. Can’t wait to see what sort of fall magic your air fryer is cooking up. Hello, cinnamon apple chips!
Nancy says
That positivity note hit the spot! Thanks Shay for being a good reminder to enjoy the seasons, and to NOT let anything rob us of joy!
Lindsey says
Your comment about no one knows what the future holds struck me. perhaps that’s why this season of upheaval seems so debilitating. But the funny thing is no one’s supposed to know what the future holds, nor have they ever known what the future holds. That’s biblical. God tells us that we need to focus on today and not tomorrow. Seems like we’ve all been spending so much time focusing on the tomorrows, which we are never even guaranteed to know about, so we can’t even muscle through today, which are a gift to us. So really, nothing had changed in that “noone knows what the future holds” but everything has changed because no we are reminded of that.
Katelyn says
Thank for you saying all that you did in the last section of this post. It really spoke to my heart. Between yours and Andrew’s outlook on things you guys are only going to instill such great positive attitudes in your children and a great energy in your home.
Olivia says
Shay, I don’t have any specific playlist recs but you should absolutely give Spotify a try! It is incredible- it learns your music style and creates daily mix playlists for your favorite genres. It also just started making a “throwback summer” playlist of all the songs I loved and listened to ~5 years ago, which is fun. The best music app out there!
Libby says
Nice, LOL!
Holly says
The school thing is so hard! We are from New Brunswick CA and have 0 cases. About 30% of ppl wear masks here. So it’s hard for the kids to understand why things are not normal.
We are suppose to go back to school in the fall but there is still the risk of everything shutting down again. So Ive decided to homeschool. We’ve been doing Science during the summer and having a blast. This week we head to PEI(as we are apart of the Maritime Bubble with that province) and I’m making the kids binders of all things PEI for the way there.
Learning has been fun here and covid really helped me embrace that.
So I’m just deciding this school year is going to be the best year ever! I’m making sure of that.
Emily Cecil says
You’re so right, Shay! This season is chaos and more than likely the next season will be too (especially for you…bless you!!!) But in all of the things we can’t control, we can try to make life as “normal” as possible with what we can control. I am so looking forward to all of your fall posts because they will be the closest thing to “normal” life! We’re just going to keep on keeping on, thanks for your positivity!!