It's been a really long time since I did a favorite things post -- as in I haven't written one since last summer, yikes! 😬 I'm not going to go into detail about it again, but the fall was pretty rough, and the blog definitely suffered for it. That's life, though, right?

Now I'm back in the swing of things and exercising my creative writing muscles, and it feels like a good time to resurrect the favorite things posts. In case you don't remember, these are posts in which I share the things that are currently making life better in some way.

Before we dive into all of the 10 things that made my list for this month, I have an honorary mention -- because who in their right mind would have predicted we'd have multiple days of snow in south Alabama?! Alexis has been dying for snow, and it has been exciting to experience this with her...even though I don't particularly care for snow. We made snow angels and a snowman and even had a snowball fight.

Alright, now on to the official list of favorite things for this month. It's an eclectic mix of things from beauty items to clothing, recipies, and even office supplies.

e.l.f. Monochromatic Multi Stick - This is the 3-in-1 makeup product I didn't know I needed. It has so many positive reviews that I knew I needed to try it, and at only $5 there really was no downside to not loving it. Most people refer to this as a blush stick, but you can use it on your cheeks, eyes, and lips. It has seriously simplified my morning routine. I'm using the sparkling rose.

Flower Jeans - I saw these and knew I had to try them. Thankfully, they are amazing in person. The flowers are printed in/on the denim, not embroidered, so there's no sensory issues. These are listed as being 90s vintage, although I don't remember these jeans back then if I'm being honest. They're high waisted and come in four other washes. I got the large (size 8/10) and they fit perfectly; I usually wear size 6.

Plaid Flannel Jacket - My husband got me this jacket for Christmas, and I've been wearing it nonstop. I really love that the buttons are snaps; it's just so much easier than dealing with button-holes. It's also got really roomy pockets, which is always a plus. I usually wear a medium in jackets so that I have plenty of room. I do feel like I should point out that the jacket is much longer on me than the model, with the bottom hem reaching about halfway down my thighs.

Faux Leather Puffer Vest - I ordered this on a whim, not really sure if I would like it or not. Turns out, I really do. I was worried that it would be too puffy and look ridiculous on me, but my fears were unfounded. It's really cute in person and actually pretty warm considering. It's currently 75% off and still available in all sizes. There's also a silver gray option that's super cute, but it's only available in some sizes.

Bow-Tie Sweater Vest - I am in love with this sweater vest! I was very nervous about ordering because it has so few reviews, but I'm so glad I took the chance. You can wear it with the bows in the front or back. I've only worn it once so far, but I have so many plans for it! I got it in the medium.

Pen + Gear Gel Pens - This entry honestly surprises me. These pens were a necessity, and I wasn't really concerned with quality so much as price. I just needed them to take notes for this class I'm taking, but y'all these pens are actually good writing pens!

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup - This was so good. I followed the recipe exactly.

Tator Tot Casserole - This one was so good that my mom got the recipe and made it for my dad. I didn't change anything from the recipe, but it's got lots of room for modification.

Cheeseburger Casserole - I really enjoyed this one too, but I did have a slight modification from the recipe. I didn't have mozzarella cheese, but I'm not sure it needed it.

Dr. Teal's Cozy Vanilla Season Foaming Bath - I'm a big fan of Dr. Teal's foaming bath. I tend to stick with the eucalyptus one, but I've been enjoying this limited edition one all winter. I'll be sad when it's no longer available.