Haven't done one of these in a while, but there are a couple of things making life a little easier for me these days. I don't know about y'all, but I am in perpetual need of help. Especially lately, it seems.
1. Black Cohosh. It is a miracle find for me. In the past year, I've noticed hormonal mood swings becoming more intense. Very, very not pretty. I came across a recommendation to try Black Cohosh (in either tea or pill form - I chose pills) and I have to say the difference is remarkable. I don't take it every day or every week. In fact, I went several months without taking any at all. I kind of just take it as needed.
It's actually supposed to be taken by peri-menopausal women. There is a history of early-onset menopause in my family, so I don't know if that explains the increase in intense mood swings or not, I just know that this has been helping me. (Of course I am not a medical professional of any kind at all. If you decide to take Black Cohosh, make sure to do your research.)
2. Gentle Discipline Support. This summer has afforded me so many opportunities to learn more about gentle discipline. I have failed many a day. The community at Gentle Christian Mothers and the forum specifically on gentle discipline has helped me so much. Reading the wise words of others ahead of me and discovering new solutions to issues as they arise . . . it's priceless. That gentle discipline forum is public which means you can read even if you aren't a member.
3. Tex-Mex Galore. I have so been enjoying the plethora of Tex Mex goodness at Homesick Texan. Favorites so far include migas, refried beans, flour tortillas, and puffy tacos.
4. Pandora. How can you not love Pandora? I've set up my Quick Mix to play selections from these stations: Dixie Chicks, George Straight, Pat Green, Kimya Dawson, Barenaked Ladies, and Glee Cast. It is pretty darn near perfection for summer groovin'.
5. Runway! Oh, Season 8 started off brilliantly last night, didn't it? I was thrilled with the challenge winner and perplexed by the auf'ing. A side-effect of my Project Runway addiction is consumption of Runway blogs. How fun to see Laura Bennett is blogging for Lifetime this season! Can't wait to read more of what she has to say.
(And don't forget that even if you don't have cable, Lifetime is mucho generous with their Runway episodes.)
6. Swing Skirts. When Old Navy came out with these this summer, I was thrilled! I love long skirts, and I really love long flowy skirts. They are so hard to find! I bought two and I have absolutely lived in them this summer. Paired with a t-shirt on top (my arms are not suitable for tank top wearage) they are the essential summer easy outfit. (I'm not an ON affiliate or anything. Just love the skirts!)
7. Styling? I wonder what a real fashion stylist would say about my swing skirts? Here's one way to find out: the Hollywood Housewife has arranged for one lucky reader to get a consultation with LA-based stylist La Stylist Mom. How FUN would that be? That would be an incredible Mommy's Helper.
(And have you been reading Laura's stories of her move to LA from our hometown in southern Oklahoma? Y'all. It is just as engaging as another famous love story. Start here and then keep reading from here and I think you'll be hooked!)
You know you can always find the rest of the 7 Quick Takes gang over at Conversion Diary!
So, tell me - what is helping you these days? Pandora channel suggestions for me? Favorite reads of the summer? Recipes? TV shows? Movies? Magazines? Clothing? Crafts/projects? Bloggy favorites? I wanna hear all about what is bringing comfort to your life as July marches in August . . .
