Happy Wednesday, friends!
Today, we wrap up the final edition of LET’S LOOK for 2023!
If you don’t know what this is, once a month, Erika and I do a little link up where we “look” at different aspects of our lives (and then if you blog, you share and link up too!). We have been doing this little linky party for years now, and it’s always one of my favorite posts each month because most of the topics are YOUR suggestions!
So far in 2023, here’s what we’ve “looked at”…
In January, we looked at HOW WE ORGANIZE FOR THE NEW YEAR.
In February, we looked inside OUR MEDICINE CABINETS.
In March, we looked at ourALL TIME FAVE AMAZON FINDS .
In April, we looked at MY PET PEEVES.
In May, we looked at MY MORNING ROUTINE.
In June, we looked at MY BEST TRAVEL TIPS.
In July, we looked at MY FAVORITE SUMMER FINDS.
In August, we looked atOUR WORST HABITS.
In September, we looked at OUR EVENING ROUTINES.
In October, we looked at OUR BIGGEST FEARS.
In November, we looked at STOCKING STUFFERS.
And today, we’re LOOKING AT OUR TOP COMFORTS IN LIFE.
You guys, I’m sure this will come as no surprise to you that this was an easy post for me to write.
The older I get, the more I consciously pay attention to the little things in life that fuel me…and I lean into them as often as possible.
Just like everyone else, my life is busy, chaotic and hectic most days. I’m waking up early and running from one thing to the next to the next and then, I’m interrupted by all of the “things” like “I forgot my lunch, can you please bring it to school?” or clients call with emergencies or I slam my finger in my office drawer and it throbs for two days (true story, did it last Tuesday) or emails pile up, my mom has called (twice), I forgot to buy the ground beef for dinner tonight, I need to shower, wait, no, I need to drop off the cupcakes I said I would donate at school…agh, all the things. There are just so many THINGS. I’ve learned though (through books I’ve read, bloggers I’ve followed, podcasts I’ve listened to, and wisdom from those I love) that if I strategically place some “comforts” into my daily routine, even if I’m running around like a mad woman, at least I have those little moments throughout the day to give me joy and peace.
True, true and true.
I sat here at my desk and in about 30 seconds came up with this list below because each and every thing you see here truly gives my soul comfort each and every day. These are my FAVORITE things and all of them bring me comfort and joy 😉 .
TOP COMFORTS IN LIFE:
READING
It’s just like my favorite thing in the world. You know I love reading books, but a great magazine fills me with comfort too. I get asked a lot if I listen to audio books and the answer is no… because I like the act of reading. It’s really and truly just about the only thing I do where my brain can’t multitask. I know myself well enough to know that if I listened to an audiobook, I would also fold laundry and text my friends. I love that when I read…I only read. I both start and end my day with a book. Always.
SLIPPERS
What’s the number one shoe you’ve seen on this blog over the last 16½ years? Slippers. They keep me cozy. They keep me warm. They keep my feet clean. I legit cannot imagine not wearing them. I keep them by my bed so that they’re the first thing I slip on when I wake up, and the last thing I take off at night.
FLANNEL SHEETS
We made the switch years ago to flannel sheets and haven’t looked back. Yes, even in the summer, we sleep in flannel sheets. They’re the ultimate in comfort for my family.
DOGS
I love my dogs. Dogs have always brought me joy and having them in my house is a “must” to make it feel like home. I love watching them sleep. I love taking them on walks. I love their company and companionship. I love dogs.
NANCY MEYERS’ MOVIES
She gets top billing on my comfort list. Nancy Meyers makes the kind of movies I want to watch over and over again. They always include great music, beautifully decorated homes, thoughtful leading ladies, they’re witty, they’re funny, they’re light, and I pretty much have one on in the background at least once a day. From Father of the Bride to The Holiday and so many in-between, they’re soothing to me.
MUSIC
My dad is a musician, but my mom is someone who is comforted by music. I am like my mom. I can’t play an instrument, but I love music in the background of my day. I find it both calming and relaxing. It’s also quite comforting.
COFFEE
I do not know where I heard this (maybe Oprah?), but years and years and years ago, I heard someone say that the difference between tea and coffee is that each cup of coffee is an experience. Geez that spoke to my heart. I get excited, genuinely excited, for each cup.
FIREPLACES
This might only be a seasonal occurrence, but sitting by a fire (whether inside or outside) makes my heart oh so happy. If your restaurant or hotel lobby has one going, I instantly love you even more. How can one not be comforted by a fire?! I’m like a magnet to them.
SALTY AIR
Just the smell of salty sea air brings me great comfort. I don’t even have to see the actual ocean, but just to know that I’m near gives me peace.
LONG WALKS
I love a long walk…and not for exercise. Yes, I’ll walk to “be active”, but almost daily, I walk just to get outside. I’ll walk my dogs, walk alone, I just LOVE to be outside and on a leisurely walk. It’s instant comfort.
BEING IN THE KITCHEN
Whether I’m cooking or baking, it doesn’t matter. Going into my kitchen, alone, and making something yummy to eat is so comforting to me.
CANDLES
Between the seasonal scents to the flickering of the flame, candles are the coziest of comforts.
FRANCOPHILE BOOKS
I am always reading a Francophile book. I started this practice years and years and years ago, and it continues to this day. I always have one sitting with my quiet time area, and most days, I only have time to read a page or two (and often, I’m re-reading some of my favorite books), but I find them motivating, encouraging, inspiring and comfortable.
MY PATIO
It’s pretty much my favorite place at my house. I love to sit out there and read. I love to take my computer out there and work. I love chatting with Andrew out there, watching TV out there, eating meals with my family out there (thanks to heaters and fans, we eat dinner out there probably 80% of the time), I love to entertain out there…I just love being outside on my patio. It makes whatever I’m doing instantly better.
BEING WITH MY GIRLFRIENDS
I love my girlfriends. Their friendship is one of my life’s greatest comforts.
TALKING TO MY MOM ON THE PHONE
If I’m having a bad day, I pretty much just need to hear my mom say “hello” when I call her number, and it’s instantly better. How often do I just burst into tears (when I thought I was doing a good job holding it together) just by hearing her say “hello” on the other end? Moms might be the closest physical thing to the word comfort.
MY QUIET TIME
My daily quiet time is MY FAVORITE COMFORT. Sitting down every morning with God’s Word and studying it is truly life changing. I cannot imagine anything being more comforting. If you missed this on Saturday, I LOVED reading through the Bible with you so much this year, that I’m going to bring it back for 2024.
If you joined me for the MMM Bible Recap Group in 2023, I certainly hope you stay with us next year too. If you’re new or have never read through the Bible before, WE WOULD LOVE TO HAVE YOU!! You can read all about the group HERE and see the details on what you’ll need to start/how it works.
And that wraps up Let’s Look for 2023!
If you have suggestions for things we can “look” at in 2024, please comment and share! Over the holiday, I will make the prompts for next year and would love any and all suggestions!
Merry Wednesday, friends!!! Thank you so much to all of you who linked up with us this year! Make sure you come back tomorrow! I AM SO SO SO EXCITED ABOUT IT!! xx
Elspeth says
This has been so fun to participate in every month! I love your comforts and how you tie them into your every day life!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Sheaffer says
I will NEVER UNDERSTAND flannel sheets. I could have a hot flash just thinking about them. But dang, they are always SO CUTE!
Mix and Match Mama says
You’re going to be in trouble when I make them my “favorite thing” next year 😉 .
Becky Carl says
Shaffer, I didn’t believe it either til I broke down and got LL Bean ones per Shay. I am the queen of hot for past 20 yrs, it does not stop! But they are so unbelievably soft and snuggly and perfectly comfortable in cooler weather. Doubt I will have the nerve to try them in summer though!!
Becky Carl says
Lands End not LL Bean.
Lois Hilty says
My husband of almost 54 yrs. & I have been using Lands’ End flannel sheets year-round for several (maybe 6 yrs.) now, & I can’t see our going back to the fine thread count percale ones we’d used for most of our marriage. They are so cuddly & warm in cold weather, & for whatever reason they seem extra soft & relaxing in our summers.
SS says
Shay I love your list!
Music is on in our house all the time. We always had music on as kids (my Dad had an old reel to reel he bought when he was in Vietnam), we went through all the phases of records, 8 tracks, cassettes, cds, to streaming.. My first single purchase was Janet Jackson on a 45! I played a main instrument, learned a little of instruments my friends played and trying to learn guitar.
One suggestion…. keep a couple.of your loved ones voicemails, so you can hear that Hello. I have one when my Dad was in the hospital telling us Merry Christmas (it was his last Christmas and he loved this time of the year…it is kind of heartbreaking, but makes me happy to hear him say that). My Gram recorded one of those recording books and she read twice through night before Chris to us every year!!
Enjoy your week!!
Dana P says
See, this is where I feel like we might have been separated at birth or maybe I’ve just been heavily influenced by your blog over the years! I would have the exact same list. Plus cats! 💕
Mix and Match Mama says
I would love to think we were separated at birth! xx
Erika Slaughter says
AHHHH!!! This post makes me want to snuggle up in front of the fireplace!
Jaime Matherson says
Next year I would definitely like to see a Let’s look post about how you organize kids closets and buy your kids clothing!
Laci L Murray says
I have gleaned so much from your blog over the last 10+ years, but being COZY and HAPPY are the top ones! I have incorporated so much of this just from you. Enjoy the little things and it makes life so much sweeter. Can you link your favorite flannel sheets?
Mix and Match Mama says
Ohhh Laci, thank you! This comment means so much to me!! Okay, these are our favorite flannel sheets: https://shopstyle.it/l/b5ED5
They only get better and better the more you wash them.
Janette says
There are Nancy Myers playlists on Spotify.
Susan says
I would love a “let’s look” post on some of your favorite Bible studies. I’m doing the Bible Recap this year because of your suggestion (side note, it is the BEST thing I’ve done all year- thank you!), and I’m interested in doing some other studies.
Mix and Match Mama says
YAY!!!!! I am so happy you did this with me this year!! I am so blessed by your comment!
Martha says
I love just reading about being cozy. I have embraced your example of little lamps everywhere and I love everything about them – from shopping for them to finding the perfect corner to place them, to their soft, cozy light shining in the evening. So, thanks for that! As a tea-only drinker I have to disagree with #7! A cup of tea is an experience and can be refreshing, rejuvenating and comforting in summer and winter. Isn’t it great that we have both to choose from? 🙂 One new comforting habit I started in the last couple of years is to put one of those Youtube videos on that has a cozy scene and beautiful music playing for hours at a time, there are so many to choose from for all seasons.
Kayla Bruce says
Oohh, see a good cup of tea is an experience too! Truly one of my greatest comforts. Would love a list of your fave Francophile books!!
Faith says
You are so inspiring and encouraging! I have tried to do the Bible recap and fail each year. Next year is THE year I will complete it.
I LOVE music too! Can’t play an instrument but music speaks to my soul.
My pups are my life…..okay third after my husband and daughters.
Thanks for sharing! And for showing us you are as crazy/busy as we are lol
Mix and Match Mama says
You can do it!!! I just know you can! We would love to have you do it with us!
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
Yes to a daily quiet time! And I love listening to The Holiday soundtrack while I do my quiet time.
MeetTheShaneyfelts
MD says
Grammar and spelling nerd here! “They’re” friendship should be “Their” friendship. And I love sitting by a fireplace with a good book!
Mix and Match Mama says
Agh! I am such a stickler for grammar, so thank you! I completely changed that sentence yesterday and clearly didn’t every word. Thank you, thank you!
sandi says
I love the direction your list took. Many of these are not things we purchase to make ourselves more comfortable, but things you do to bring comfort. I never thought of reading as a comfort, but it can change my mindset on a busy day to take a few moments for myself and read something. We do not have dogs, but our youngest has a bunny that loves to sit on my lap and sleep. His fur is so soft I joke that he is my therapy bunny and just holding him is calming.
Going into the kitchen comma alone… I had to chuckle. Just by being in the kitchen draws people to the kitchen until it is time to clean up. What are you making? I don’t like onions. Can I chop something? Can I measure something? Tomatoes are not my favorite. And then it is crowded chaos. 🙂
If I had to rank my favorite Nancy Meyers’ movies The Intern with Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway has to be #1. Her other movies are wonderful, but their relationship is delightful and the premise is funny and anytime I stumble over it I will watch it to completion. Just adorable!
Sandy M. says
Your comment about calling your mom brought tears to my eyes. I know the feeling but I can’t call my mom as she has passed to heaven. Four years ago this was her last birthday and Christmas. I don’t say this to be a downer, but readers, CALL YOUR MOM while you can.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh Sandy, I wish I could give you a hug. Sending you SO MUCH LOVE!!!
Aparna todi says
Wow shay! Reading your list of comfort was like reading about me! 16 out of the 17 are mine too! The only thing I dont really much care about is the Francophile books but having said that, I do love Parisienne fashion! But I’m not surprised that our likes are so similar, I guess that is why I’ve followed your blog for years as I resonate with it…happy holidays to you ❤️
Mix and Match Mama says
Awwwww! Well thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for being a part of this community. I am SO BLESSED by you!! Should you ever want to try a Francophile book, this one is my favorite: https://shopstyle.it/l/b5FDw
Natalie says
Shay- this is so exciting.. they are releasing a kids ages 6-8 Bible Recap January 30th. I’m super excited bc my 12 yo listens with me and now my 7 yo can too. Yay! Thought I’d share. Hubby may even come aboard LOL. See what you started?! 🤗
Mix and Match Mama says
I’ve already bought both of my littles a copy! I AM SO EXCITED!!!!
Celina says
This is why I think we would be friends. My list mirrors yours! Nothing like hearing my mom’s voice, a good book, salty air, my dog. Thank you for sharing.
Leslie S says
I love reading your blog! Through the years you’ve helped me learn to be gentler on myself and lean in to the small windows between crazy life to incorporate self care. Thanks for helping me prioritize myself along with my fam. I started the Bible Recap with you last year and made it to July when so much happened and I didn’t pick it back up – really looking forward to starting again with y’all in January!!
Next year I’d love some content on parenting teens, transitions, trends, social media – from a parenting perspective. How has parenting changed for you and how are you staying close to your teens? What has been the best surprises in raising teens and your relationship as their mom? What has been the most fun? Ideas for vacations with teens. You’ve shared through the years such a positive outlook on parenting, teen years are so different yet I’m finding them to be so GOOD. Not much dialogue from a positive experience (plenty on how tough teens are) so I would love some content from your point of view on parenting through this stage.
Wishing you and your family Christmas Blessings!
Leslie S says
* clarifying my previous comment – other spaces have lots about how difficult teens are — I’d love your viewpoint on what you’re doing and what you’re finding awesome about this stage of parenting. I’ve found the transition so much better than I was expecting based on what I was hearing from so many people. Always interested in ways to foster good relationships with my teens, etc and would love content like this with any tips
Mix and Match Mama says
I love all of this, Leslie! You know I really try hard to keep this space positive and also be respectful of my family, but YES, there is so much joy in raising teens. I love all of these suggestions. I am thrilled to have you again for the Bible Recap in 2024. Sending you so much love! Merry Christmas!
Susan McKain says
Love your list! I call our sweet dog, Koko, our toddler – even though she is nine. Our old dog, Tugger, was much brighter than Koko but needed nurturing as well. IMO, having dogs mean you will always have the toddler-like energy in your life!
Beth Knecht says
A great list of little comforts! My great aunt is my go-to person. She always, always, always makes my day better…even being 8 hours away. She is unfortunately declining with Alzheimer’s and I hate to think of the day that she doesn’t know me or the intonation of her voice doesn’t change when she says my name. It’s amazing how just a hello can brighten up my day! I always think “how blessed am I to have her in my life”!
Beth Valenta says
You are my kindred spirit! The kitchen is my place! With candles, coffee, dogs, Uggs, and music! Luke evans calms. You also bring me such joy! I do miss besties blog.
Kelly Bonner says
I’ve learned a lot of comfort/cozy ideas from reading your blog all these years. The older I get, the cozier I like to be. Merry Christmas Shull family 🙏🏻🎄. Thank you for being a bright spot in my day.
Joanna says
I would love to read a Francophile book. Can you please name 1-3 Francophile book titles?
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh yes! I love so many! Madame Chic, Practicing Parisienne, Chez Moi, Sophie the Parisian just to name a few!
Julie says
Thank you for suggesting The Bible Recap! I’ve done quiet times off and on for years, but I absolutely loved doing TBR this year and listening to the podcast each morning. It’s grown my faith, I’ve told others about it, and I plan to do it again in 2024. I love how God is using your blog to be a blessing to others. Thank you!