Happy happy Friday, friends!
Today’s blog post is just a little housekeeping to tide us over until Monday when I feel like my brain can really dive into 2024.
Believe it or not, my kiddos are still home for winter break until next Tuesday (YES! They are still home!), so between getting home from Park City, having the kids here, Ashby’s Gotcha Day (which included a big check up appointment for us at the hospital in Dallas…see pic above 🙂 ), a phone call from another doctor telling me I needed to stop what I was doing and bring yet another kiddo in for something (it ended up being fine, but still..), and then throw in a cheer thing this weekend…I’m keeping things SIMPLE this Friday.
First up, based on so many reader requests, this year we are having…
…A BOOK CLUB!
This has been a very popular request now for some time, and this year, I have decided to do it. Now, I’m going to set up the preliminary details here, but forgive me if I change/tweak/modify as we go this year.
Here are the details:
1: On the 22nd of each month, I will share a BONUS blog post that is only about the book we read together that month. So, if it falls on a weekend, look for it that day, if it falls on a Tuesday, expect a food post, a normal lifestyle post AND third post just for the book review discussion.
2: I picked the 22nd because I want this post to come out BEFORE our normal monthly BOOK REVIEW POSTS. I will still share my normal monthly book reviews (where I average 4 to 6 books a month) at the end of each month. I will reference said “book of the month”, but I will not be reviewing it on that post, I will be linking back to the BOOK CLUB POST. Why? Because I want all of the content about the one specific book club book in one spot instead of spread out over multiple spots.
3: Each month at the end of the Book Club blog post, I will share what the book will be for the following month. This will give everyone one month to read this one particular book. Clearly, this month, I’m sharing the title a few days late, so you’ll need to read a bit faster this time around. Starting on January 22nd though, you will see the book for February 22nd on that Book Club post.
4: Let’s be real, I’m going to try to pick new/popular/relevant books every month, but I’m also going to pick books that speak to me. If you have any suggestions, please feel free to share them with me. I’m going to *try* and make the books different genres each month. I would love for us to read a variety of fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, chick lit, thrillers, etc this year. That’s the *goal*.
5: What are the rules of the book club? I know a lot of book clubs have rules and perhaps I’ll add some as we go, but basically, if you want to read along with us, we’d love to have you and on the 22nd we’ll dive a little deeper in the comment section here about that one particular book. Easy as that! That post is the one place where we’ll discuss the book so that all thoughts/opinions/questions/etc can be in one location.
What are we reading this month?
This…
The Last Love Note by Emma Grey
I hope you pick this book up and read along with us! We will discuss it on the bonus BOOK CLUB POST January 22nd! We will NOT be discussing the book in the comment section today, so if you’ve already read it, save your thoughts for the 22nd please 🙂 .
Another little bit of housekeeping for us today is…
…we looked at your suggestions, and Erika and I have all new LET’S LOOK prompts for 2024!
On the second Wednesday of every month, we will “look” at…
…and we would LOVE to have you blog the same topics and link up too! Now the only change here to note is that this month (January), we will be posting on January 17th (the third Wednesday) instead of next week. Starting in February, we’ll be back to the second Wednesday of each month.
We truly, truly love it when you blog and link up too! If you’ve never done it before, make 2024 the year to do it!
One of the MOST requested blog topics when I asked for feedback last week was…
I’m telling you…
…SO MANY of you want to know what my people are wearing (or just places they shop/things they like in general).
I can only use up so much blog space with this content, so yes, I’ll continue to share it here when I can, but this year, I’m going to TRY REALLY HARD to keep it all updated HERE!
I have not been great over the last decade of actually using the LTK app, but this year, I will use it often to share my own outfit inspirations in all price points (so many of you wanted a mix of both luxury and very affordable, I’m going to do my best!) PLUS loads of actual things my family loves.
Make sure you follow me and check back often for things like…
One bonus thing for this morning, you always ask and I just realized…
…so many of my favorite Vuori pieces are ON SALE RIGHT NOW! I feel like they don’t have sales very often, so you might want to check it out!
Finally, this is one of my FAVORITE things right now. You guys, I am SO PUMPED!!
I have shared many many pics of my Bible over the years…
…my parents gave it to me for Christmas TWENTY years ago (three months before I married Andrew).
I love this Bible more than anything else I own. It holds all of my notes, my thoughts, little life moments (so many good and so many not good)…it is so precious to me. That being said…
…after 20 years, Genesis and Exodus literally fall into my lap every single day. My Bible was in really sad shape, but I did not want to send it off to be rebound. Even though my dad has done it several times (all with good experiences), I was so nervous. Sweet Hannah here in my office has heard me talk about this Bible problem for a year now, and I am positive she was SO OVER me discussing it. Knowing that The Bible Recap would be starting over on January 1st with Genesis, I said a prayer, went to the UPS store and shipped it off to Legacy Bible Rebinders. I thoroughly researched Bible rebinders, and they had excellent reviews.
You guys, it arrived back to me this week…
…and I legit teared up! It’s PERFECT!!!!! On their website, I selected the leather, the color, the font, the printing, the ribbon, etc, and it is truly perfection.
Should you be out there like me very hesitant to do it and yet opening a Bible every day that’s also falling in to your lap, I highly, highly, highly recommend these sweet people. From what I can gather (just through our communications, etc), it seems to be a sweet couple that’s doing the work. I am just beaming over here over my “new” Bible.
And that wraps up our Friday.
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend! Come back on Monday for the “official” official start to the 2024 blogging season. Until then, sending you so much love! xx
Elspeth says
I love so many things about today’s post! Can’t wait for the book club and for new let’s look! Happy 2024!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Erika Slaughter says
I ordered my book! And so glad you’re back! Looking forward to another fun year of LOOKING with you! 😉
Emilee says
I love a book club!
A suggestion for a future month would be…”This I Know” by Eldonna Edwards. I read it this week and question if it might be my Book of the Year in 2024!
Paula says
Sometime last year, I was having a conversation with my MIL about her greatest treasure from her father. Also, my husband’s’ greatest example of a Christian man and he was the epitome of pure joy and kindness. Her answer was his Bible. His Bible because it was like she was there when he studied and knows what the Lord spoke to him. It got me thinking. I had just started a new Bible translation that year [2023). If I did it again the following year and then rotated each of them, I could do that for each of my children someday. This year, I am starting with a new Bible again to be able to hand down. I am full of anticipation of how the LORD will speak to me either the same or differently from years before. Each year I think I will rotate them from here on out and have something personal fromnmy walk with the Lord the kids can have from me some day.
Years in the past, my focus word or theme has been me. Make me better. Do better. Feel better. Better wife, mom, Christian, friend, cook, exercise, keeping the home, learn more scripture, diligent about a study… whatever it is, but it started with me. This year, it starts with God! I want to know Him. Focus getting to know His character better. Ears to hear Him. Eyes to see Him. Feel Him wherever I go. Like being a parent of a newborn, putting in the time out of love and sacrifice, not expecting something back, but the greatest reward imaginable.
Mix and Match Mama says
Paula, I wish I could give you a hug. Yes, yes and YES! I love your heart. I absolutely love your heart.
Katie says
If you haven’t read this one yet, I definitely recommend Love Walked Among Us by Paul Miller, it’s all about the person of Jesus 🙂
Melissa Terry says
I am in tears because like you, I got my Bible 21 years ago with my new married name on it and it’s literally falling apart. I have the back taped together but have never trusted anyone to fix it. Thank you so much for sharing! I am definitely doing it this year. Looking forward to book club too!
Mix and Match Mama says
YES!!!!! Melissa, you will love them! Andrew just shipped his Bible off after seeing mine return this week. He was equally as impressed with how mine looked that he sent his off too. They were so quick returning it especially considering I sent mine during Christmas and the New Year.
Kelly Marie Sites says
yay for all the prompts- I’m super excited about the Podcast one, and how you wind down in Dec. All of them will be great. Yay for book club, and yay for a new bound Bible. I like to save my “old” Bibles (all with many notes, highlights, names of people next to the scripture verse I prayed for them, etc) for my future grandkids. I’m excited to have some saved and will leave them to each of my kids and their kids some day.
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes!! That’s our plan too. My parents always talk about who they’ll pass their Bibles down to and then Andrew and I will do the same. Those notes are just too valuable not to share with the next generation.
Jennifer Goodwin says
I just looked up the book for the first book club, and it looks so good! I bought it and can’t wait to read it along with you. Your Bible turned out beautifully!
Kay says
I’m so excited for book club! It’s going to be great. I’m almost halfway through Reese’s book pick ‘First Lie Wins’ and so far it’s REALLY good. An addictive, twisty thriller that’s hard to put down. I am adding it to our list of future reads! Hope you are able to relax a bit this weekend before back to school. We went back this past Tuesday (outside Boston) so I can’t imagine still having my three teens home-hang in there!
Jodie Kingsbury says
Yay! I put the January book on my Kindle last week. I will try to read it and remember to come back on the 22nd to discuss.
Carolyn says
Yay! Looking forward to the book club!
Shelley says
So excited about book club and actually have that booking waiting in my book stack to read so I am moving it to the top. Excited for what your blog will bring this year! Still my favorite little corner on the internet
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank YOU so much for being a part of this community every single day!! xx
Shannon Snider says
Great post, Shay!
Ashley Schaefer says
I was laughing seeing your bible because I have the exact same bible, even same color. Every time I open it up, Genesis and Exodus fall out. Gave me a chuckle!
Mix and Match Mama says
Send it to these people!! You will be so pleased!!
Keisha Dawson says
I’m so excited about the book club. I ordered my book today. Also, I’m pumped to do the Bible Recap this year. I finished up day 5 in my quiet time today. I have used the digital bible for years, and I love it, but there is something so special about a physical copy. I’m so glad you had a great experience getting yours rebound.
K.K. says
Oh Shay!! I’m so excited about the book club!! Book – ordered!
This was a fun update all the way through. Happy 2024!
Sandra Roberts says
So glad you’re back! I’ll get the book downloaded in just a few! I also started the Bible Recap back in September and so far so good – I’ve never read the entire Bible but I’m learning lots of new things. I’m enjoying the history of the Old Testament.
Cindy Gilliam says
Have you and your kids watched the Netflix series “School Spirits”? If not, the older two would love it and I think you would too. There are eight episodes and it lets you know at the end what is going on, but there is also so much more to the story and I was so excited that they’re filming Season 2 now. We binge watch it in two days.
Casey says
Excited for the book club! I would love to see you and Erika bring the podcast back. I’m sure it’s time consuming but I just love listening!
Kelly McClure says
Yay! I am excited about the book club! Thank you for doing it 🤓
Sheila DeSpirito says
I was in tears looking at your new/ old Bible. I’m so excited for you.
And I’m so excited for Book Club! I already have the book, thanks to BOTM. I’m going to start reading it today. Have a great weekend!
Jessica Tribbett says
Excited about the book club! Have you heard of The Storm We Made by Vanessa Chan? Earlier this week I saw the author and her family’s “viral” reaction when Good Morning America shared her book, it is hilarious and adorable! I thought of you when I read the summary. You should check it out if it isn’t on your radar!
Taylor Henson says
I’m so excited about book club!!! Just purchased the book on Audible!
Amy says
Love your new Bible! Sick a great story of how it turned out. Would you mind also including a rating of the books for the club, like the movies-G, PG,PG-13 etc. It would be much appreciated. Happy New Year!
Mix and Match Mama says
I try really hard to always rate books after I read them if they’re a strong PG-13 or R. The problem though with this Book Club is that I won’t be reading the book until I read along with you…so I won’t know.
Maggie says
Hi Shay! Love this post so much. I wanted to ask, what translation Bible do you use? I just started a Bible study and it seems like the translation I have just isn’t giving me the message the book is (if that makes sense). Is there one you would recommend for a new’ish Bible studier?
Mix and Match Mama says
I have several different Bible translations at my house (and love many), but this one here is the New Living Translation STUDY BIBLE, and it’s my very favorite. I bought my two big kids this exact Bible this year for Christmas. While my Bible was being “fixed”, I pulled out my NIV and used that for two weeks, and I love that one too, but this NLT Study Bible is my fave.
Sally Lockwood says
I am going to throw this out again! I must not be the only one that wants to see your Christmas gift exchange with your girlfriend’s recipes!
You could make it into a cookbook and donate the funds to Manda Strong or something else you might want support! What do you think????
Lori Whittington says
Just ordered my book! I never realized you dropped Lowe (and kept your middle name) when you got married. Where I live most people drop there middle name. Funny how it is different depending on where you live. Glad you are back, I missed reading each morning.
Kristen says
Where do you live? I’m so curious, I grew up on East coast and I’ve never heard that before!! We just always drop maiden name.
Lori Whittington says
I live in VA. Maybe it is a Southeastern thing. LOL
Lin says
Hi Shay! So, I’m finally beginning strength training today (in my 50’s). I’ve decided to start with Andrew’s first strength training routine on your blog. The YouTube videos will be helpful. Please tell him thanks for posting this.
Mix and Match Mama says
I will!!!! Good for you!
Andrea says
I just ordered my book! On a different note, I am going to have the same hysterectomy surgery you had so THANK YOU so much for all the details and information you’ve shared. It’s been so comforting and helpful. We travel a lot, like every 4-6 weeks to visit our twin grandbabies. I know everyone heals differently, and you’re definitely younger (I’m 53), but I’m curious to know at what point after the surgery you would have felt up to getting on a plane, etc…It’s a short flight, just about an hour and a half. I’m trying to figure out timing for the surgery. Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
I can easily answer that! I had my hysterectomy on December 6th and got on a plane the 27th 🙂 . I’m not telling everyone to do this or recommending it, but if you’re feeling up to it and have your doctor’s approval, I bet you’ll be seeing those babies in no time. Please keep me posted. I want to hear how you’re doing! I bet you do FABULOUS!!
Carrie says
Just ordered the book club book! I’m looking forward to following along with you this year! Many blessings to you and all in this corner of blog world for a great 2024!
Sandy Manning says
I’m so happy to hear your recommendation for Bible rebinding. I work in a book shoppe in Frisco and we get asked about that from time to time. I have one solid rec for a man in Southlake, but since you had such a positive experience, I am adding this to our list. BTW, the name imprint on the new binding is actually placed correctly unlike the old one! So happy you shared this.
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m so happy to help!! I truly had a great experience!
Cathy Carter says
Hi Shay! This will be my 2nd year doing the Recap with you! The first year I used the journal and this year I’m using the study guide. What are you using for your third year? I plan on doing it again next year too! Thank you!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m using the Study Guide again! I loved it so much and just used the blank space around each day to “journal” on my own. It was the best of both worlds. I’m so happy you’re doing it!
Susie Harrold says
The Last Love Note was my top book of 2023! I think you’ll love it! It’s such a sweet story and it will stay with you. Enjoy!
Sarah Madsen says
If your sports loving Ashby, Andrew, or Smith are watching football this weekend, we’d love some extra cheers for our South Dakota State University Jackrabbits! We’re playing in Frisco for the National Championship for the second year in a row. Go Jacks! 🐰🏈
Meagan says
Hi! I know you said not to comment on the book if you’ve read it – and you can definitely not publish this or you can delete it. But you may want to put a trigger warning on this particular book. It is a BEAUTIFUL, GRIPPING book but it is also very, very grief heavy. If you have recently suffered (or even years ago suffered the loss of a loved one) this will immediately transport you back to that. It just may be a very heavy read coming off the holidays in the blah of January. Again, fabulous book, it’s a 5 star for me, but I think y’all should know it’s not an easy read for 95% of the book.
Bev says
Thanks for the recommendation for the refurbished Bible. My husband is a Bible teacher and his favorite one is literally duct taped together. We filled out the form and are sending it in on Monday, can’t wait. Our daughter, years ago, said she wanted it passed down to her. Now it will also look beautiful. Such a treasure.
Dawn says
So excited for the book club! Went to reserve it at the library and it’s already in my queue. Yay!
Carolyn Baugus says
Do not like LTK Do not like giving out my personal information.
Martina Ingemarsson says
Hi! I am one of those that asked about the return of the book club, so thanks for doing that again 😊 Wishing you and all of us a great 2024 with Mix & Match Mama. Have said it before but your mix is truly unique and you are so inspiring, in things big and small!
Katie Stewart says
Super late to read this post but am SO happy to see you had a positive experience with rebinding your Bible. I have a teen Bible that I used as a teen and am wanting to gift it to my oldest daughter as she approaches that phase of life. ❤️
How special!
Becca says
it’s $1.99 on kindle today – just got it! Looking forward to it 🙂
Jodie Michel says
Downloaded The Last Love Note right after I read this post on Friday and binge read it this weekend…can’t wait for your review!
Razib Paul says
It sounds like a lively and eventful Friday for you! Balancing family, commitments, and personal life is a juggling act we can all relate to. Kudos for keeping it simple amidst the chaos. Wishing you a smooth transition into 2024 once the winter break settles. Your candid and relatable updates make the reading experience feel like catching up with a friend. Cheers to a well-deserved and relaxing weekend!