Hellllllo out there and happy Friday. I’m still in my PJ’s over here and still taking care of sick kiddos. And now a sick husband. I thought we were on the mend yesterday, but the kids still don’t feel well enough to go to school and now that mean ol’ stomach bug has caught the hubs. I know it could always be worse, but we can’t seem to catch a break these last few weeks and I’m just plain worn out to say the least. I feel unmotivated and not creative in the slightest. I’m doing my best to get by with everything that’s been going on behind the scenes and I feel like my content has kinda sucked. I hate that feeling, but it’s the truth. When crap hits the fan, my work takes a back seat. And to be really honest, lately I’ve felt unsure of what my purpose here is anymore and what I should even be sharing with you guys. I’ve been praying for God to give me direction and guide this journey I’m on because He is truly the one that has been in control the entire time. I always want this space to be in alignment with His purpose for me and my family, but I’m just unsure of some things right now. I’m so sorry to be a Debbie Downer today, but that’s just what is on my heart and I like to keep it real with you guys. I hope that’s ok. Now, after all that malarky, let’s do a quick Friday Five. We just put up some new bamboo shades in the window seat that I’ve been wanting to share:
Aren’t they pretty? I’ve been wanting to add shades to this spot for a while now and I’m so glad we finally did it. They give this window so much more coziness and texture, plus they’ll be great this winter to help keep the heat in. We had to get them custom made for this window and holy cow they are NOT cheap. I ordered them from Select Blinds (these are the Premier Bamboo Shades in the color Maize).
Cozy Finds from Express
I dropped into Express last weekend when I was doing a little “mama alone time” and I snagged a few things. I got two cozy sherpas that I absolutely LOVE. First is this brown zip sweatshirt. It’s super, super warm and very comfortable. It’s a little cropped, so I got the medium. It’s currently on sale too!! See it HERE.
I also got this camo sherpa pullover. This basically feels like wearing a blanket–it’s the coziest thing everrrrrrr! I’m wearing a small here–it’s definitely oversized and runs big. And holy smokes it is SO warm. I know I’m going to be living in this come wintertime. This one is also on sale, see it HERE.
RANDOM TIDBITS
- With everyone sick this week and needing a warm blanket, I realized that I have five of these throw blankets. FIVE. It’s kinda out of control. But they sure did come in handy this week–they’re just so dang cozy and we all love them. It’s the perfect blanket for this time of year!
- I’ve been listening to the Charles Stanley Daily Radio podcast more lately and I forgot how much I love it. Do you guys know Charles Stanley? He’s amazing. I listened to his sermons on the Power of God this week and they were really good.
- One of the most popular things I’ve shared lately has been this Tula skincare kit. My entire morning routine is included in this kit and it’s such a GOOD deal because it comes with full size products. So many of you have scooped it up and I can’t wait to hear what you think. As always my coupon SARAHJOY saves another 20%. See it HERE.
Thank you for stopping in today and continuing to support the blog. It means so much to me! xoxo
Hang in there it could be worse… sick mom and well kids🤷🏼♀️
Thanks for sharing. I do enjoy your blog and have tried many of the products you have shared.
Hang in there, you will look back on these days when your children are grown and realize that even these hard days are precious with them.
Prayers for y’all.
Life is messy so being real shows the world that life is messy for EVERYONE. I LOVE your blog and read EVERY word when it comes to my email box. I’m even sitting in my chair right now wearing a pull over hoodie you recommended along with the throw from Target you recommended. So I’m enjoying your decor ideas and suggestions for things that are comfortable to buy. Keep up the GREAT work.
Thank you so much for the kind words and encouragement Debbie! It truly means so much. xoxo
So sorry you were feeling kinda down! I enjoy your blog and love checking out your beautiful home and the different products you recommend. I just received my little Christmas trees in the red and white burlap from Walmart that you suggested the other day. I’m keeping 2 and bought 6 for presents (yay!). You always bring a little sunshine into my inbox. Thank you!
Oh that’s awesome Julie, I love those little trees!
I appreciate your sharing the real! Yesterday felt kind of heavy for me, personally, so I find comfort when others share the same feelings. I think this time of year going in to sick season and darker days just doesn’t help. Prayers that you and your family get over the sickness and you find direction and purpose!
Dear, sweet Sarah,
Don’t you worry about us, there’s so much content on your site there’s always something we can go back and read! I do that quite often. Your purpose right now is to take care of your family like nobody else can! Sometimes all the little ones want is their Mama, and that’s the best medicine! Remember, this too shall pass! Keep your chin up!
BTW, looove the bamboo blinds!
Love the bamboo shades! I’ve been wanting the same in my kitchen alcove. Where did you get them? Also love the rug in this room. Where did you get the rug?
Thank you
She said she got them from Select Blinds and has a link in the post you can click on. You can probably search on her website and find the source for the rug😊
Continuing in prayer for healing for your family. God is faithful and is in your midst. Jesus came that we may be healed. You’re doing such a great mom job.
Sarah, don’t feel guilty for feeling uninspired now. You have your hands full and you are tired! I well remember the days of being a young mom with sick kids. I love to see what you are doing with your home and I enjoy looking at your blog. Hopefully you can light one of your blissful candles and go soak in the bathtub.
God allows us to go thru “down time” to help us see how much we depend on Him and to be a comfort to those who we can help when they are going thru a hard time. There is a scripture for that, but I can’t remember it. Love you blog and your house. We are in an apartment so it is hard to make it feel like home. God’s blessings.
Sarah, I think what adds to the content of a blog is the ability of the author to be authentic and honest which is what you have done here! Sure, we all want beautiful homes and purposeful vintage projects, etc etc but life isn’t always idealistic and perfect and beautiful. Sometimes it’s germs and mess and feelings of mediocrity or loss of purpose or whatever our journey presents to us. There is an incredible message in your story this week…we prevail through tough times! This too shall pass, love! Thank you for a message of HOPE!❤️❤️❤️
Well said! Love both of your messages! Life can be messy-that’s real life…Jesus is there with us through it all💕
Amen to that!
Love the blinds. Hugs and prayers for your family.
Hi Sarah,
Popping by with a word of encouragement. I look forward to your posts about creating a cozy home for your family and I’m 70. Eeekkkk! Seriously, my mission is to help create wonderful memories for my grandchildren. Even though we should probably downsize from our 100+ year old farmhouse, it is a place of security and love for our children and their families. Priceless in our ever changing world. You do much the same for your blog readers. You have such a love for home and family and God. Helps to warm our hearts and treasure our moments.
Blessings to you, Sarah.
Sarah,
Don’t question how great this blog is! I’ve been following you for several years and your my fav. And you’ve got great content, I go way back sometimes on old posts to see how you decorated for Christmas, etc and look at your DIY projects, so the content is great. I love that you keep it real and not everyday is perfect. That’s why your followers love you so just keep being you. Love the bamboo blinds! Now I want them!! Haha…Prayers for your family to get well soon!
Hi Sarah!
I wish I could give you a big hug because as a mom I can totally understand where you are coming from! Sickness and situations that seem to never end can be so trying in so many ways!! I have read your blog for years and it’s always my favorite! I love how open and honest you are about life and all the things!! And of course your love for farmhouse style 🙂 I hope everyone starts to feel better soon! Praying for y’all!
Btw…love your candle from Antique Candle Co.!!!
Most of us are raising or have raised children…..we get it! Take some time if you need to, to recharge and get back on track. The harder times make you appreciate the better times. Love your blog and have ordered several things you recommended. You got this!!
We all have times when things are not going very well, but you are a strong woman, led by God and He will get you through! I am in a very difficult time myself and know it’s hard to keep your spirits up, but I concentrate on the Word and KNOW Jesus took all our pain and sin and His grace will not disappoint !…Charles Stanley is good and his son, Andy Stanley is also good!
The bamboo shades look great, I love them! Your home is so cozy and warm. It’s always a pleasure to see your decor! God Bless You sweet Sarah!
thank you so much Brenda! I always appreciate your encouragement. I pray your difficult time passes soon!
Hang in there, momma! Having sick kids (and husband!) is one the toughest parts of parenting and can certainly drain you! Your blog content is great and has good variety! Part of the beauty of having your own business is that you can be there for your family when you need to, and no need to justify that to your readers! Those of us who enjoy your blog will still be here😊
Oh sweet Sarah! Please know that we are all here to encourage and cheer you on. Being a mama is tough, particularly when your kids are sick and the season is changing with colder and darker weather. I love the fact that you are real and that’s one of the things we love about you and your blog! So please don’t feel in any way that you have to apologize for being human. You’ll get through this.
Also, I love Charles Stanley! He’s such a wise man and I agree with another post that mentioned his son Andy, who is also very good. Hope the next few days are better!😄
thank you so much for those sweet words and the encouragement Deedra!! It truly means so much to me. You are such a sweetheart!
I love your blog! It’s always so sweet and full of fresh ideas! Seems to me like you inspire a lot of people and I admire that about you!
ah thank you so much Margi, I appreciate that!!
Thanks for sharing. I do enjoy your blog and have tried many of the products you have shared.
Hang in there, you will look back on these days when your children are grown and realize that even these hard days are precious with them.
Prayers for y’all.
amen to that! These days aren’t always easy but I do cherish them.
I know it sounds stupid but I love your blog and videos. I started using the Tula products and even got some of the same clothes you wear. I know you have to do what is in your heart but I do love following your life. You are always so positive.
Ah thank you so much Gail–I really appreciate the support. And I am so happy to hear you are loving Tula!
I hear fatigue loud and clear. When you get some rest, read: ask for help, your creativity will bounce back. Promise.
thank you so much June!
Hope ya all feel better soon!
I love that you can share the tough times in your life yet provide the solution to all problems in the same post. We all experience problems on a daily basis but staying close to our family and always In God’s Word will bring us true joy more than anything else ever will. Thanks for a daily dose of inspiration. I really like those blinds!
yes amen to that Nancy!!
love the shades. hope all feel better soon.
kim xx
thank you Kim!
Hi Sarah, sorry to hear about your hectic week 😕 when we’re feeling tired and exhausted the doubts always set in! It will pass and you’ll start feeling your creative juices flowing again! And if you seek God for direction He’ll definitely show you that’s for certain. It’s just the timing and the answers that we as humans struggle with! He says draw near to Me and I’ll draw near to you. So it sounds like you’re definitely doing that! Take courage! We have an unfailing love in an awesome God!!! ❤️
I love your blog, I always look forward to it! Xx
thank you so much for the encouragement Gayle, I always appreciate your kindness! xoxo
Love your blog…..I’ve found so much inspiration here! Praying your family will feel better soon. Have you ever tried taking elderberry syrup during flu season? It’s actually not bad in taste so the kiddos don’t mind it.
ah thank you Verna, that means so much!! I haven’t tried Elderberry syrup but I need to get some pronto.
Well I pray God gives you the direction that you’re looking for. Because I found your channel and I think you are a breath of fresh air! I pray that your husband and kiddos feel well and that you don’t get sick. Have a wonderful weekend. Jodi. ❤️🙏🙏
thank you so much Jodi!! xo
Take care sweetie, hoping you don’t get sick….Love those blinds.
thank you so much Becky. xoxo
The Adversary is trying to discourage you, Sarah. Don’t give him the victory! You have been given a special ministry here where you can be free to not only speak of your faith, but to actually live it too in view of thousands of people. I too, enjoy listening to Dr. Stanley’s teaching/preaching. I try to catch In Touch on t.v. when I can.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.
James 1:2-3
Wow thank you so much for that encouragement Teresa, I needed it more than you know!
Don’t worry about us or your content family is first.Well God is but you know what I mean.Take care of yourself and we’ll be here when you get back.Much Love Sheilah💖
thank you so much Sheilah! Truly appreciate that. xo
I adore your blog. I’ve ordered several of the clothing pieces you featured and not only do I love them, I get tons of compliments. Your decorating tips are spot on, and I love how upbeat you are. I hope you all start feeling better and things are back to normal around your house soon!
ah that makes me so happy! Thank you for the support Tracey. xoxo
Hi Sarah,
I want to say that I look forward to your blog a lot. It encourages me and sends new ideas my way to brighten my home decor.
Keep on Keeping on!
Get well soon, sister!
bap
thank you so much, I really appreciate that!