Rather abruptly, just like a gust of wind blowing through an open window, I became an “early to bed” person. Perhaps it’s the I-birthed-three-babies-in-three-years (and no one’s sleeping through the night) that did it? Perhaps it’s because pajamas + evening tea + a quiet house for reading = sleepy mama? Perhaps it’s just because this is what’s right for me? I mean, really, all of the above applies ;)
As Mother’s Day approaches and I think about the women in my life who are about to become mothers for the first/second/third time, or the mothers who need a little hug (don’t we all?), or my own mother who is never really done mothering me… I wanted to share a roundup of a few calming favorites, just in case you need a few ideas, mama-to-mama.
And so, my list of favorites:
a comforting candle (and the jar is gorgeous!)
a cup of wild orange tea (caffeine-free)
a book to read (I also really enjoyed this book and this book)
Cozy slippers (great for year-round wearing)
a new coloring book
THE BEST fragrance oil
a study Bible (the sidebar notes are fantastic)
the most efficient way to make dinner
and a colorful necklace.
Oh, and one more! We were gifted a Keurig a few months ago, and the ability to brew a cup of coffee, just for me, at any time of day, is such a treat! I definitely look forward to my afternoon cup. Oh, yes I do ;)
By the way, I started bathing the kids early in the day (before lunch or just before dinner) and it’s made our evenings so much easier! And, like I shared a few months ago, we stopped watching TV and minimized our toy collection, and it’s still amazing [insert A-OK sign]. In fact, it’s increased my laughter quota because the activities and conversations my kids come up with are hilarious. So yes, I highly recommend doing this, especially if you need a little more “calm” in your life, Mother’s Day nearing or not.
PS. this post is not sponsored but does include affiliate links. If you make a purchase from one of the links shared, I may make a small commission. All products shared here are things I use personally, and almost daily! If we were sitting together, these products would definitely come up in conversation, I love them and rely on them heavily ;)
What are some of your favorite “evening calm” gift ideas? What do you consider a personal indulgence? What gift idea is on your wish list? Do you love or hate your TV? Do share in the comments…
I love that you have done away with the TV! We don’t have kids (yet! fingers crossed;) ) , but as we are getting everything settled in our new home (yes, you read that right, it happened!) we have been talking about not having a TV in our living room. We had a little dinner party the other day and we were able to fit 15 people comfortable in there, just chatting and having a good time! if we had a TV, that would been less seating, and something else to talk over or around. It was great!
I can’t tell you how happy this makes me! Yes, not having a TV gives you so many more decorating/furniture placement options ;) so fun. Tell me more about your dinner party???
It was kind of for my birthday, but more than anything, we just LOVE hosting people. So we grilled wings, ribs, bbq chicken, we had pasta salad, potato salad, garlic bread, CAKES (yes, more than one, lucky girl right here). What I really need to figure out is how to decorate! Once I get my blog post up about it, would you give me some suggestions?