SO in the KNOW September | What I’m Learning & Loving Now

Oh, y’all! Fall has officially entered the chat! It’s the end of September and, here in Dallas, we had a cold front blow in last night, dropping our temperatures from highs in the 90s to highs in the 80s. My poor city! Our leaves usually don’t even change until early December. Hahaha!

That said, fall is on the way, and here at ENB HQ, we’re publishing a book (Oct. 14!), heading to Florida for vacation, closing on our house, and moving! Phew! I know your lives are equally busy, and that makes me even more grateful that you took the time to stop by and check out what I’ve been learning and loving in my empty nest this month! Read on, ’cause I’m spilling the tea!

What I’m Learning

As always, click any pink text link or any of the collages for more information on anything!

Chia Pudding

Have you heard about the viral recipe for protein-packed Chia Pudding?

Chia seeds are packed with fiber and a powerful source of plant-based omega-3s, which benefit heart health and cognition. An April 2025 study by the National Institutes of Health found that chia seeds specifically lower cholesterol and blood pressure. When you soak the tiny seeds in milk — dairy, almond, or soy — they’ll transform into a thick, creamy pudding full of fiber and healthy fats.

Easy Chia Pudding Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• ½ cup milk of your choice (almond, coconut, dairy, etc.)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)

Instructions

1. In a small jar or bowl, stir together the chia seeds, milk, vanilla, and sweetener.
2. Mix well to prevent clumping, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
3. When ready to serve, stir again and top with fresh fruit, granola, or nuts.

How to Use ChatGPT to Find the Best Flight Deals

Have you tried using ChatGPT for travel? To do it, ask this question: “Find the absolute cheapest lights from (departure city) to (destination) within the next (timeframe), comparing all major and budget airlines.” Then refine ChatGPT’s answer using these prompts:

1. Suggest alternate nearby airports and layover routes that significantly reduce flight costs from (departure city) to (destination).
2. Analyze historical flight price trends for my route and recommend the optimal booking window to get the lowest fare.

Speaking of Travel…

Not sure where to go on your next getaway? If you’re an AARP member, you can access loads of travel guides on AARP’s travel site! Click HERE to check it out.

Suzy Said So!

Did you know my favorite facial sunscreen has won 35 beauty awards, including being named in the 2024 WWD as one of the 100 Greatest Skincare Products Ever Made? And this year, it made Allure’s Best of Beauty list! A tube is sold every 12 seconds! I wear it under my makeup on my face and neck every single day, 365 days a year!

What I’m Loving

1. Quilted Barn Vest

Classic and cozy, if you only buy one thing for fall this year, let it be THIS quilted barn vest! Lightweight yet warm, it’s a statement-making layering essential that adds polish to everything from joggers to jeans while keeping you comfortable on crisp days. This versatile wardrobe staple is 25% off right now, too. I promise, it’s a piece you’ll reach for year after year!

2. VIO2 Mouth Tape

Okay, this may be hard to believe (it was for me!), but your friend Suzy is telling you the truth! I heard about mouth tape online, and originally ordered this as kind of a joke for Bob!The better and more restorative sleep claims seemed excessive, but I thought it might help with his snoring and my nighttime dry mouth. I am here to tell you, THIS mouth tape has completely stopped Bob’s snoring and my dry mouth, and we’ve been sleeping deeper and longer, and waking up feeling refreshed! Sounds crazy, I know, but it’s true!

The tape is designed to encourage gentle nose breathing, and it doesn’t disappoint. Once we found out how well it worked, we ordered a dupe on Amazon, but it didn’t stay on, so I reached out to the brand to ask for a discount code! I SO recommend you give this a try, and you can learn more about it HERE. Be sure to use code SUZY15 for 15% off if you purchase.

Let me know if you love it as much as we do!

3. Empty Nest Blessed: 60 Days To Finding Joy In The Empty Nest

My heart is so full sharing this with you! This 60-day interactive journal offers daily encouragement for empty nesters in all stages of the empty nest, from new to long-time empty nesters. You’ll find Biblical wisdom, practical tips, and actionable prompts to help you embrace this season with joy and purpose. Want to go inside the book? Head to my Instagram profile page (please follow me!) and tap the BOOK button to peek inside the book. (See below.) It’s available for preorder now on Amazon in hardback, ebook, or audiobook (read by me!)—it’s the perfect gift for yourself or a fellow empty nester!

4. Nala Leopard Scarf Charm Necklace

I love the new scarf charm jewelry trend! Equal parts chic and playful, this leopard scarf charm necklace instantly elevates your look. Pair it with sweaters, dresses, or blouses to add a touch of trend-right animal print in the most sophisticated way. I just ordered THIS scarf charm necklace to wear to Baylor games! Want to see more? Check out THESE at Anthropologie, and THESE at Lisi Lerch, and THESE on Amazon.

5. Lane Woods Gold Bracelet

Ohhh, this one’s a find! (If I do say so myself! haha) You’ll wear this timeless gold bracelet with everything! (I do!) Its sleek, modern design makes it perfect for everyday wear or stacking with your favorite bangles. At just $12.99, it’s an affordable jewelry find that looks far more expensive than it is. (My favorite thing!) It would also make a fantastic Christmas gift!

6. Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick Shade: “Insider”

You know I love a good drugstore find, and when the brand that makes my favorite drugstore mascara offered to send me their newest lipstick, I said “yes” soooo fast! Been looking for a matte lipstick that lasts? This matte liquid formula from Maybelline delivers rich color that stays put for hours—no touch-ups required. It’s perfect for busy days or nights out on the town. I’ve been wearing the flattering “Insider” shade for fall, but you can see them all HERE.

7. Chi Shine Infusion Thermal Polishing Spray

Hair lacking shine! You can easily remedy that! Say hello to frizz-free shine! This Chi thermal polishing spray protects hair from heat while leaving it smooth, glossy, and polished. I used it for THIS TV appearance and THIS one too! It’s a must-have for blowouts, flat-ironing, or curling.

8. Hanging Jewelry Organizer (80 Pockets)

Who has time to rake through a bunch of jumbled jewelry when you’re trying to get out the door fast? I keep my jewelry neat and tangle-free with this hanging organizer. It has 80 clear pockets, making it easy to see and grab my favorite earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. And it’s slim and sleek, so it hangs right in my closet next to my clothes.

9. Relaxed Fit Super Soft Cargo Joggers

Ready to upgrade your loungewear game? Soft, stretchy, and oh-so comfortable—these cargo joggers are the ultimate in relaxed chic. With an easy fit and practical pockets, they’re perfect for errands, lounging, or travel days. Add cute sneakers and a fun graphic tee, then pop on a denim jacket or even a blazer, and you’re good to go!

10. Halston Mary Jane Flats with Memory Foam Insole

I love Mary Jane flats because they can dress an outfit up or down! I have quite a collection, and wear a pair almost every day! Step into comfort and style with Target’s Mary Jane flats from Halston! Designed with a memory foam insole, they deliver all-day support while adding a feminine, on-trend touch to your outfits. I mean, you could pay $150 for THESE from Sam Edelman, or pay $38 for THESE 🎯, but that’s up to you!

11. Gingham 2-Piece Pajama Set

I don’t know about you, but I sleep hot, so I wear lightweight PJs every night, even in winter. Plus, I’m always on the lookout for PJs that are modest enough for me to wear around kids and grandkids on a family vacation. (Anybody else?🙋🏻‍♀️) I fell hard for this gingham pajama set that comes in several colors! It’s lightweight, breathable, and just the right mix of cozy and cute. And it’s gingham, so there’s that!

12. Chain Name Necklace

My son and daughter-in-law gave me this darling pendant necklace for my 60th birthday this year! Mine has pendants with the names of my two grandchildren, and a pretty pink heart in between. It’s truly one of my most cherished possessions!

October 1 is right around the corner, y’all, and here at ENB, that means we start working on our Holiday Gift Guide in a BIG way! This necklace (available in various metals, including 14K gold) is going to be one of my top recommendations for women this year! Personalized jewelry never goes out of style, and I think this pendant name necklace is a precious way to keep loved ones close to your heart.

13. No Tie Shoelaces

Say goodbye to bending down and tying knots! These no-tie shoelaces make any pair of sneakers slip-on and stress-free. Perfect for travel, workouts, or simply making life easier. And speaking of gifts, this would make a great stocking stuffer! Click HERE to check out the color options!

I hope you feel SO in the KNOW after reading this post! I love compiling it and sharing it with you! Let me know your favorites in the comments!

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