Our Where Bloggers Live group is wonderful for many reasons. 1 is that I would never come up with some of these ideas to write about, yet they stop and make me think. For example, this month, with things I can’t live without.
Some are purely practical, some are vanity-based, and some are the deeper things that make every day more joyful.
My perspective on things I can’t live without comes from the angle of being an organizational nut and fashion-obsessed woman who likes to keep it real.
And many of these have been discussed in past articles, so don’t let it be said that I’m not consistent. (I know, I know, it’s a double negative, but see above with “keep it real”).
And because I believe that life should always include a smile, some of these are a little tongue-in-cheek. But hey, laughter could be #11 of the things I can’t live without…it’s why I married my husband.
My emails are my way to share fun and positive content with you from all of the sites I visit during the week. Sure, you also get my free eBook when you sign up, but that’s not the best part.
The best part is you get a daily dose of positive energy.
I’ll keep this short since it was part of my latest belongings from 2024 that made the list.
When I first saw this laundry gate on a TikTok video, no less, it was truly a light bulb moment. I knew I could put away the “grabber” that I had procured for those socks and undies that went flying behind the washer and dryer.
Yes, it’s well worth the $30, and I’d buy it again in a nanosecond.
Another item that has been showcased in a previous article. As well as one that was found scrolling through social media (who said that scrolling is a waste of time?)
Considering how much we cook at home and have to pull out the pots and pans for almost every meal, this has been a lifesaver.
In the past, we ended up using pan protectors when the pots and pans were spooning, but it still wasn’t ideal. I Love how the pot rack organizer enables you to remove each pot by itself with no issue. And it could be used vertically.
Another kitchen organizing tool makes the Top 10 list. Obviously, you can see where we spend a bunch of time in our household. A blogging friend shared these cord organizers with me, and I have been in heaven ever since. Okay, maybe a little exaggeration, but not much.
I mean, how did I live with all of those cords flopping around like my unruly hair? Sure, it takes an extra 30 seconds to wind these around, but it’s worth my sanity.
Insider tip: Not all cord organizers are created equal. I bought a set by a different brand, and they didn’t stick well.
Now for something beauty-related: all-day lipstick.
Yes, this is old news if you’ve been reading my stuff for a while. And just like the cord organizers, they aren’t all created equal. I’ve narrowed it down to 2 favorites, and really love the Rimmel even more than the Maybelline because it’s not as matte looking.
There are two huge reasons I swear by it.
First, I don’t want to spend the day constantly reapplying.
Second, they don’t bleed into my wrinkles.
I want you to know that I recently experimented with using one of my NOT all day lipsticks to see if maybe I was just in a habit and there was something I was missing out on.
NOPE.
Every stylist whether professional or accidental (that’s me) has tools of the trade. Heck, I even have a tab on my website dedicated to mine.
Bookmark the page to make it easy for future reference.
And you betcha, I’ve written about the idea before. Granted, not all of the tools listed on my tab made it to the article and vice versa, but I love the idea of having these fix it gadgets.
Considering I love the adjective “extra”, I’m sure it’s no suprise that accessories are part of the things I can’t live without. They’re the difference between wearing clothes and wearing a look.
I’d even say that my organizations things I can’t live without pale in comparison to the joy of accessorizing.
Why be basic when you can be bold? Life’s too short for boring.
Now let’s step away from the tangible stuff for a minute. One of the biggest things I can’t live without is openness in thoughts.
Think of it this way. How do you become a “pro” at something if you have only done it one way or thought about things only one way?
Being narrow-minded slams doors shut. Staying open lets me discover new styles, try new ideas, and connect with people who think differently than I do.
If I were the touchy feely type, I might say that openness is the accessory that never goes out of style.
Kindness is another must-have in my life. It’s one of the reasons, I am one of the admins of the Facebook Group: Forever Fierce-The Ageless Revolution (albiet a dormant admin lately). And no surprise, it’s been a topic of conversation on my site in the past.
Here’s the thing: outfits are fun, organization keeps me sane, but how we treat each other is what leaves a lasting impression.
I always think kindness is even more important when you don’t agree with someone. Everyone has a back story and their own priorities, and having an accumulation of birthdays gives us the experience to use kindness instead of judgement. At least I hope so.
I’ve written all about our cats travelling to Arizona and the best dog food for Piper, so you know we care deeply about our fur babies.
IFYKYK (that’s short for “If you know, you know)
They teach me patience when they decide the ottoman is a better scratcher than the cat tree. They remind me to enjoy the simple pleasures like an outdoor walk (even when it’s crazy weather) and belly rubs.
While their passing is a time of heartbreak, I think it’s also a life lesson. Along with the advanced care they need as they age.
It’s not just about the giggles when they are young and funny, it’s about the constant love even when they vomit on the couch or have incontinence.
It comes down to the fact that they are love on four legs.
Now for Rob I can say he is love on 2 legs. Sometimes on his back. And even more time on his keister. (That’s your cue to laugh).
I’m at a loss for words to include him as part of this 10 things I can’t live without. Yes, he’s been part of my posts before. And he’s my village that allows me to do all that I do.
I admit that I’m the person that tends to find friends, but he’s the one everyone likes better. He’s kind, patient and oh so understanding (even when my ducks are flying).
It’s no suprise that the 10 things I can’t live without would differ from yours and my Where Bloggers Live group (make sure to check out their ideas too).
These items fit in with my values and personality traits and since we are all unique, everyone’s list should be diverse.
That’s why I would love for you to share a couple of your things you can’t live without. Who knows? I may need to check them out.
And maybe that’s the lesson: it’s not just about the things themselves, but how they make life easier, happier, or more meaningful.
What is Where Bloggers Live? It’s kind of like HGTV’s “Celebrities at Home,” but…Bloggers! Who doesn’t like to peek behind the scenes and hear all about the personal backstories and interesting details? The best part of this group is that I learn something new from everyone’s different perspectives.
FYI, we don’t all post at the same time since we all have different schedules and live in different parts of the world.
Bettye at Fashion Schlub
Daenel at Living Outside the Stacks
Em at Dust and Doghair
Iris at Iris’ Original Ramblings
Jodie at Jodie’s Touch of Style
Sally at Within a World of My Own
We’ve been doing this fun series for over 5 years now.
Want to explore some of the old prompts? Feel free to visit any that might strike your fancy.
Messy & Odd Side-by-Side Refrigerator Organization
My Money Mismanagement
Seasons of your Life
Better health when bored at night
Vacation-Palm Springs
Things I Can’t Live Without
Eco-Friendly Practices
Favorite post –Happy 5 Years
Bedtime Routine
3 Favorite Gifts
Detox your wardrobe
Date night ideas in Phoenix
Spring Cleaning-Laundry Style
180 Degree Journey
What’s In My Bag
Does Makeup Make You Look Better?
How to Survive the Heat
Did you like what you just read?
Consider buying me a coffee as a thank you. The best gift you can give a content creator is the gift of sharing or supporting. You could share this article on Facebook, or Pinterest or even email it to a friend. Thank you so much for your support!!
The post 10 Things I Can’t Live Without (Practical & Not) appeared first on Jodie’s Touch of Style.
