SO in the KNOW | What I’m Learning & Loving in my Empty Nest This Month

Happy June, friends! I’m back with another edition of SO in the KNOW! This is where I get to share the little discoveries that have made me smile, made life easier, or simply made me think this month. As empty nesters, we can sometimes feel like the world is moving so fast, and we’re missing out on the latest and greatest. I don’t want you to feel that way, so every month, I tell you what I’ve been learning and loving in my empty nest. I hope you find something here that blesses you, makes you laugh, or sends you down a fun rabbit trail.

As always, click any item in the collages or any pink link for more information or to shop.

What I’m Learning

I had a hard time figuring out what to share with you this month…there was just so much! But with the extra free time the summer affords, I know it’s a great time for me to slow down a little bit and catch up on my streaming, reading, and the latest health and wellness news, so that’s what I decided to share with you!

The Story of Everything

One of the most fascinating things I’ve watched recently on Amazon Prime Video is a documentary called The Story of Everything. It takes viewers on a journey through the universe—from distant galaxies to the intricate design of DNA—and explores whether all of it could really be the result of chance.

As someone whose faith is an important part of my life, I found it incredibly compelling. The film examines scientific discoveries and evidence in a way that encourages curiosity, thoughtful conversation, and deeper reflection about the origins of our universe. Whether you’re a person of faith, a science enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys exploring life’s big questions, I think you’ll find this one both interesting and thought-provoking.

Want to Cut Your Skin Cancer Risk?

Did you know that, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70? The good news is that when it’s detected early, skin cancer is highly treatable. The other good news is that there are lots of ways to cut your skin cancer risk. Things like wearing UPF 50+ clothing, like the cute styles at Cabana Life, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and consistently wearing (and reapplying) sunscreen.

Research published in JAMA Dermatology found that nicotinamide, a form of vitamin B3, may help lower the risk of certain skin cancers, especially for those with a history of the disease. In a study of more than 33,000 people, participants who took 500 mg twice daily had a 14% lower risk of skin cancer, while those who began taking it after a skin cancer diagnosis reduced their risk of recurrence by as much as 54%. Experts say nicotinamide helps repair UV-related DNA damage, supports the skin’s immune defenses, and may also improve skin health by strengthening the skin barrier and reducing inflammation. You can read more HERE.

Clean Comedians You’ll Love

Bob and I are all about funny without filth! To me, being shocking, vulgar, or dirty just doesn’t take as much skill! So I put together a list of 8 of our favorite clean comedians, and I thought I’d share it with you! I’ve linked to their websites so you can check them out for yourself.

1. Nate Bargatze (Bob loves his book!)
2. Leanne Morgan (I loved her book!)
3. Jim Gaffigan (His new special is up on YouTube!)
4. Brian Regan
5. Tim Hawkins (His new special is hilarious!)
6. John Crist
7. Anjelah Johnson-Reyes
8. Dusty Slay

What I’m Loving

1. The Only White Shirt You Need This Summer

This white gauze popover shirt checks all the boxes for a great summer staple. (It also comes in a gorgeous shade of blue.) It’s lightweight and breathable without being see-through; the elbow-length sleeves provide a little extra coverage, and the flattering shape looks polished whether you wear it tucked or untucked.

If you’ve been searching for a versatile white shirt you’ll reach for all season long, this is it—and it’s 30% off right now. It fits true to size. I ordered the petite, even though I’m 5’5″, because I sometimes prefer a slightly shorter length and a better fit through the shoulders and bust.

2. Welcome Back, Kitty Cat

There’s a new crossover shoe that’s making its mark for summer. In the past few weeks, multiple starlettes have been spotted wearing a quirky new shoe trend: kitten-heeled flip-flops. That’s right, the quintessential summer sandal has been given an upgrade in the form of a tiny kitten heel.

Kitten-heel flip-flops are one of this summer’s biggest shoe trends, and I can see why! They give you the casual ease of a flip-flop with just enough heel to instantly make your outfit feel a little more polished. They pair beautifully with everything from sundresses to jeans, travel easily, and come in lots of great colors. If you love the look of heels but don’t love wearing them all day, this 1.75-inch heel with a memory foam footbed offers the best of both worlds. Click HERE to see all of the color options!

3. Must-Have Mug

While shopping in the cutest little boutique on Sanibel Island, I stumbled across these adorable 16-ounce mugs and immediately knew I wanted to find them for all of you. Unfortunately, the brand only sells directly to retailers, but I tracked down several of their beautiful designs on Amazon! They feature colorful, hand-painted designs with encouraging messages and Scripture, and come in a gift box, making them a sweet gift for a friend… or yourself. Click HERE and scroll down to see the darling designs I found on Amazon.

4. Jelly Tote

These jelly totes are BIG with your adult kids right now. (Trust me on that!) and I love ’em too! I’ve always liked a big tote! This one is lightweight, wipes clean in seconds, and is roomy enough to carry everything you need for a day on the go! Bob and I went new car shopping last weekend, and this tote (in cute blue gingham) handled everything from water bottles and sunscreen to paperwork and snacks. Click HERE to see all of the cute colors and patterns!

5. Root Touch Up

You know I’m a big fan of Laura Geller makeup, so when she teamed up with her friend Didi Conn (yes…Frenchie from Grease!) to create this clever root touch-up system, I took notice! It’s only available on Amazon, and it covers gray roots in seconds, helps disguise thinning areas, and even fills in sparse brows with the same compact. It’s a quick, easy way to stretch the time between salon appointments while keeping everything looking fresh and natural.

6. The Chosen 4-Sided Necklace

If you’re a big fan of The Chosen like I am, you’ll love this meaningful four-sided necklace. The pendant is engraved with “Redeemed,” “I am His,” and “Called by Name,” while the fourth side features The Chosen‘s iconic three-fish logo. Every purchase supports Starfish Project, a nonprofit that helps women escaping human trafficking build new futures through meaningful employment. It sold out on the day it launched, but it’s back in stock and makes a beautiful gift—for someone you love or for yourself. What a precious reminder of who you really are!

7. Luster Lock

When people ask me what the secret is to my shiny hair, I always tell them about this spray because I use it every single day! It instantly detangles, tames frizz, boosts shine, and helps protect my color from fading while nourishing my hair with keratin, argan oil, and African manketti oil. If your hair is feeling dull, dry, or difficult to manage, this is an easy addition to your routine that will make a noticeable difference. (Pinky promise!)

8. Beyond Arnica: A Superior Bruise Cream

If you’ve ever wished your bruises would fade faster after a cosmetic procedure, fall, or everyday bump, this doctor-recommended cream is worth knowing about. Unlike plain arnica cream, Skinuva combines a high concentration of arnica with vitamin K and growth factors to help reduce the appearance of bruising, swelling, and discoloration while supporting your skin’s natural recovery. I also love that it absorbs quickly and isn’t greasy, so it’s easy to use a few times a day until your bruise is gone. (And if you’re dealing with a scar, check out their scar therapy cream.)

9. Scarf Necklace

Scarf necklaces are everywhere this summer, and they’re such an easy, affordable way to update your accessory game! They instantly add color, texture, and personality to even the simplest outfit, and I love that you don’t have to figure out how to tie a scarf yourself! Haha! Click through HERE to see all of the beautiful color and print options—they have so many fun combinations to choose from!

10. Everything Balm

If you’re looking for a quick way to look more awake and pulled together, this little balm is such a fun find! It’s a blush, bronzer, and glow booster all in one, and I use it on my cheeks, eyelids, and lips for a fresh, sun-kissed look in just a few seconds. The creamy formula blends beautifully, feels lightweight on the skin, and is an easy way to simplify your makeup routine. Click through HERE to see all of the available shades, and don’t let the color in the container scare you—they go on as a sheer, blendable wash of color that you can easily build for a more vibrant look.

11. Fun Summer Read

If you’re looking for a lighthearted summer read to toss in your beach bag, A Brewed Awakening by Pepper Basham is such a fun pick! Set in a charming small town, it’s a clean, enemies-to-lovers rom-com featuring a tea shop owner, a British pub owner, plenty of witty banter, and a happily-ever-after. If you enjoy sweet romance, laugh-out-loud moments, and all the cozy small-town vibes, I think you’ll love this one.

12. Summer Straw Handbag

A great straw handbag is one of those summer accessories you’ll reach for again and again! This handwoven bag is roomy enough for your everyday essentials, but polished enough for everything from brunch to vacation dinners. I love the modern crescent shape, the pretty O-shaped handles, and the neutral color, which goes with just about everything in your summer wardrobe.

13. Upgrade Your Carry-on

If you’re ready to upgrade your carry-on, this one stands out because it solves several of the biggest travel frustrations. The front-opening design lets you grab your laptop, tablet, or travel essentials without opening your entire suitcase in the middle of the airport, while the extra-deep main compartment fits bulkier items that don’t always work well in traditional carry-ons. It also has smooth-gliding spinner wheels, an expandable design for extra packing space, wet/dry compartments, an AirTag pocket, and a built-in TSA lock—thoughtful features you’d expect from much more expensive luggage. See the color options HERE.

Well, friends, that’s a wrap for June! Thanks for spending a few minutes of your day with me! I’m so grateful! I always hope these monthly roundups leave you feeling encouraged, inspired, and just a little more “in the know.” Whether you found your next favorite product, your next beach read, or your next fun conversation starter, I hope you leave feeling just a little more “in the know!”

Now tell me…what was your favorite find from today’s edition? Or what was something you learned that you can’t wait to share with someone else? I’d love to hear!