SO in the KNOW March | What I Learned & Loved in my Empty Nest
March always feels like a deep breath, doesn’t it? Spring is peeking its head up like a tulip bulb pushing through the soil! The temperatures are starting to warm, little pops of green are showing up again, and suddenly everyone seems to be in a better mood. Easter is upon us, which always makes everything feel hopeful!
In this month’s SO in the KNOW, I’m sharing a handful of cool things I’ve learned this month, along with practical favorites that are making my everyday life easier, more organized, and more stylish. These are the smart little upgrades, confidence-boosting finds, and simple home touches I’m loving right now. As always, my goal is to encourage, inspire, and bless you in your empty nest! xoxo
What I’m Learning
Feeling Stressed? Dehydration Might be to Blame!
Did you know that feeling stressed might have more to do with your water bottle than your to-do list? 💧 A new study found that people who drank less than 1.5 liters of water a day had a 50% spike in cortisol (that’s your body’s main stress hormone!). Even if you don’t feel thirsty, dehydration can sneak up and trigger your brain’s stress response. The easy fix? Keep water nearby, aim for light-yellow urine, and sip your way to calmer days and better health! Read more HERE.
Easy Makeup Brush Cleaning (No Extra Products Needed!)
You probably already have a sense that your makeup brushes hold a lot more than foundation! But did you know that not cleaning them could lead to a fungla, E.coli, or even staph infection? Yikes! So about once a week, you’ll want to give them a cleaning. According to the experts, here’s how you can do it:
- Mix warm water with a little liquid hand soap or shampoo in a small bowl. (Don’t use dish soap, as it’s too drying.)
- Swirl each brush in the bowl and use your palm or fingers to massage the bristles. (I wear rubber gloves for this!)
- Run each brush under water with the bristles pointing downward. (So water doesn’t get into the shaft of the brush and loosen the glue.)
- Repeat until the water runs clear.
- Squeeze out as much water as possible with a clean microfiber cloth, then let the brushes air-dry completely before using.
An Easy Way to Extend Your Lifespan
People who floss daily live, on average, an average of 6.4 years longer than those who don’t. Brushing removes only about 40 to 60 percent of plaque, so without cleaning between our teeth, a significant amount is left behind, which can lead to gum disease and inflammation that doesn’t just stay in the mouth. Poor oral health has been linked to heart disease, stroke, irregular heart rhythms, diabetes, kidney disease, certain cancers, and even some forms of dementia, as inflamed gums may allow bacteria and inflammatory markers to enter the bloodstream and affect the heart and brain. You can read more HERE. I’ve learned the hard way that all flossers are not created equal! THESE are the ones I use and love.
Audiobooks (FREE! Kinda!)
If you love audiobooks, here’s a great opportunity! For a limited time, Amazon is offering a one-month FREE trial of Audible (ad-free). After the trial, the Standard membership renews at $8.99 per month and includes one audiobook credit each month, plus unlimited podcasts, and you can cancel anytime. If you’d like more than one audiobook per month, Audible also offers a Premium Plus membership with a 30-day FREE trial (ad-free); after the trial, it renews at $14.99 per month and allows you to download multiple audiobooks each month. Right now, Empty Nest Blessed: 60 Days to Finding Joy in the Empty Nest (read by me!) is $0 with a FREE trial!
What I’m Loving
Collared Drawstring Shirt Dress
This is one of those easy, throw-on-and-go dresses that works for real life. The collar adds structure, the drawstring defines your waist, and the fabric keeps things comfortable. The sweet scallop trim at the placket and collar make it look really high-end! It can be dressed up with sandals or worn casually with sneakers. A practical staple for spring and summer.
Schutz Low Heel Slide Sandal
These shoes are polished but easy! The low heel gives just enough lift without sacrificing comfort, and the slide design makes them effortless for everyday wear. They work with dresses, denim, and even tailored shorts. A versatile neutral sandal you’ll reach for all season.
Mirai Clinical Persimmon Soap
Have you heard of “old person smell?” Research shows that as we age, our skin produces more of a compound called nonenal, created by the oxidation of certain fatty acids. It’s not about poor hygiene, and it doesn’t wash away easily with regular soap. In fact, it can cling to skin and even fabrics, no matter how clean you are. That’s why this Japanese persimmon soap is so smart. It’s specifically formulated to neutralize nonenal at the source rather than just mask odor. It’s a simple, practical swap in your shower routine that helps you feel as fresh as you truly are.
Tote Bag Organizer
If you carry a larger tote, you know how quickly it turns into a black hole! (Or is that just me?! haha) This organizer insert instantly gives your bag structure, with compartments for your phone, keys, wallet, lipstick, and even a tablet. It’s a must-have to keep you organized when you travel, and it makes switching handbags so much easier. Just lift the insert out and drop it into your next tote. Simple, practical, and surprisingly life-changing if you love a roomy bag. (SOOOO good for organizing grandkids’ stuff too!)
Brain Dump Notepad
This notepad is simple but powerful. When your mind feels cluttered, writing everything down in one place helps you prioritize and breathe again. It’s practical, encouraging, and perfect for keeping on your desk or kitchen counter. ENB followers can use code ENB10 for 10% off.
Sojos Polarized Sunglasses
Polarized sunglasses help cut the harsh glare that bounces off surfaces like water, snow, and pavement, making everything look clearer and easier on your eyes. They enhance color contrast, reduce eye strain, and provide 100% UV protection, which helps keep your eyes comfortable and protected whether you’re driving, walking, or enjoying time outdoors.
But it is SO difficult to find polarized sunglasses for a good price! This brand is available on Amazon, and I’m a huge fan. THIS is the style that I wear (under $14!), but I suggest you browse the selection and choose the frame that suits you! Seriously, at this price, you should buy several different styles!
Proctor Silex Cordless Can Opener
This little cordless gadget feels like a modern kitchen miracle! Just pop it on top of the can, press start, and it automatically attaches itself to the lid and cuts along the sides for a smooth, safe opening. No twisting, no gripping, and best of all… no sharp edges. It’s simply one of those smart, practical upgrades that make cooking feel a little easier and a lot more enjoyable. It comes with its own USC charging cord, and the charge lasts and lasts. Brilliant!
Detachable Collar (Dickey)
This is a fabulous little wardrobe trick! This detachable collar gives you the polished look of a layered blouse under a sweater without the bulk or extra heat. (Menopausal women, rejoice!!!) It’s perfect for travel, work, church, or anytime you want to elevate a simple outfit. It’s affordable, lightweight, and takes up almost no space in your closet or suitcase.
Acrylic Baseball Cap Organizer
If your husband has a growing baseball cap collection, this sleek organizer solves the clutter instantly. It mounts easily and neatly displays caps without crushing them or stacking them in a pile. It keeps closets organized and makes it simple to grab the one you actually want. It’s saved Bob’s closet in our apartment, where space is at a premium! Practical, tidy, and surprisingly satisfying.
Flaxmaker Swimsuit & Coverup
This swimsuit is such a confidence booster. Flaxmaker Swim is known for stylish, vintage-inspired designs with flattering fits, and this one blends fashion and function beautifully. The ruffled, layered silhouette offers tummy control and modest coverage without feeling matronly, and it fits true to size. What makes this brand especially smart is that every suit comes with a coordinating cover-up, whether a stylish skirt, shorts, or sarong, so you can go straight from the beach or pool to lunch or dinner without a full outfit change. It makes packing simpler and feeling put-together effortless. I own this suit!
Spring & Summer Wreath
This pretty wreath is the easiest way to freshen up your front door for spring and summer without overthinking it. The soft pink tones feel seasonal but not fussy, and because it’s artificial, you don’t have to worry about shedding or replacing it. It stores easily and comes back out year after year looking just as pretty. I love mine!
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
My dermatologist and friend Lori said, “This is the best book I’ve ever read.” Then my friend Debra and her husband were over and saw it sitting out. Debra said, “Ohhh, that book is SO good.” Then, her husband, Mark, said, “It’s really, really good!” (This even made Bob’s ears perk up.) I’ve just finished it, and I couldn’t agree more. This NY Times bestselling debut novel by gifted writer Allen Levi is thoughtful, meaningful, and beautifully written. It’s the kind of book you read slowly and think about long after you close it. If you enjoy stories with heart and depth, this one delivers in a quiet but powerful way. A wonderful gift idea, too. BUY this book. You won’t be sorry.
Straw Scallop Edge Belt
This belt is such a fun way to finish a spring or summer outfit! The woven straw texture feels perfectly seasonal, and the scalloped edge adds just enough personality to make it special. It looks great with dresses, linen pants, or high-waisted denim, and it’s an easy way to define your waist without feeling stiff or heavy. Target does it again! It’s a well-priced, simple accessory that instantly makes an outfit feel more styled. You’ll own it for years!
I always have so much fun putting these SO in the KNOW roundups together. (To see previous month’s SO in the KNOWs, click HERE.) I love sharing smart finds, practical solutions, and fun discoveries that have caught my attention lately.
Now it’s your turn! Did something here make you think, “Oh, I need that”? Or have you discovered something lately that the rest of us should know about? Tell me in the comments. The best recommendations often come from this wonderful community, and I’m always excited to see what you’re loving too.
