Editor’s Picks: February 2020
Every time I come up with my Editor’s Picks, I think of Julie Andrews in the movie Sound of Music. I haven’t seen the movie in years, but without fail, whenever I sit down to share some of my favorite things, I can’t help but sing in my head, “These are a few of my favorite things!” Perhaps you will discover something new in this month’s Editor’s Picks that you, too, will consider one of your favorite things. . . . And now I’m dreaming of crisp apple strudels and silver-white winters that melt into Spring!
Good Reads
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
The year I turned eighteen, my mom handed me a book. When I asked her why now, she said it was because the subject matter was too mature for a young girl, but the story is an important one she wanted me to read. Based off the book of Hosea in the Bible, Redeeming Love is a story of an incredible, unconditional love. Over the years, I have lended and gifted this book to friends and family—and read it several times, and each time I’m not only impressed by Francine Rivers’ masterful writing but also grateful for the powerful reminder of Christ’s never-ending love for me. It’s a book I usually have on hand to lend a copy or give to a friend. I encourage you to add Redeeming Love to your must-read list in 2020! Pricing varies, Amazon.com
His Needs, Her Needs by Willard F. Harley, Jr.
Three years ago, I read His Needs, Her Needs as part of a book club. I wasn’t sure what to think of it at first, but the more I read, the more I began to appreciate the author’s insights into marriage—particularly how every human being has ten basic needs, but that we all rank those needs differently. Knowing what these basic needs are, plus understanding how you rank them and how your spouse ranks them, you now have a wonderful tool in your marriage toolbox with this book. $10.59, Amazon.com
For the Home
Green Lambs Ear Stem & Yellow Billy Button
The next best thing to fresh flowers throughout the home? These Green Lambs Ear Stems from Hobby Lobby. I have these stems in various rooms and vases—sometimes alone, other times with another pop of color like Yellow Billy Button. Green Lambs Ear, $5.99, HobbyLobby.com; Yellow Billy Button, $4.99, HobbyLobby.com
Wardrobe Essentials
Dr. Scholl’s Platform Slip-On Sneaker
This past fall, I was on the hunt for a pair of slip-on shoes, and I must have tried on fifteen different pairs before I finally found these. All I have to say is that Dr. Scholl’s makes a very comfortable shoe—and they’re stylish too! (Color shown: taupe) $39.95–$69.99 based on style, drschollsshoes.com
Travel & Adventure
A Weekend Getaway in Missouri Wine Country
Speaking of silver-white winters that melt into Spring, we’re dreaming of warmer weather in the months to come and a weekend getaway in Hermann, Missouri—a quaint village town in the heart of Missouri wine country. For lodging, be sure to check out Hermann Hill, a beautiful hill-top B&B that offers a variety of suites, including cottages. For more information on the town itself, check out VisitHermann.com.
Food & Drink
The Perfect Shortbread Cookie
Several years ago I hosted a cookie baking and exchange party. Several friends came over, and we spent an entire afternoon baking our favorite cookies. At the end, we each filled up a box to take home, share with family, or give as a gift. It was great fun, and I found my new favorite shortbread cookie: this cranberry-white chocolate shortbread cookie from myfoodandfamily.com. They couldn’t be any easier to make, and they’re a family favorite.
