I seriously can’t believe how fast May has flown b I seriously can’t believe how fast May has flown by! And the fact that it’s already Memorial Day weekend coming up!! I had a feeling it would since I’ve been on surgery leave and recovering this month 😜 But one thing I’m SO glad I did before surgery was get all of my patriotic summer decor put out early because I definitely wouldn’t have felt like decorating afterward.

Now I actually get to sit back, relax, and enjoy all the cozy red, white, and blue vibes around the house all summer long ❤️ There’s just something about patriotic home decor, American flag accents, and a festive coffee bar that makes everything feel like summertime is officially here!

So here’s a little peek at my patriotic coffee bar setup in all its red, white, and blue glory today 🇺🇸☕️ And honestly? I’ll probably leave it up all summer because I love it that much 😂
#patrioticvibes #patrioticdecor #coffeebar #vintagepatriotic #americandecor
AD If you’re looking for the ultimate easy summer AD If you’re looking for the ultimate easy summer grilling recipe, you’ve got to try the @juicy_lucyburger burgers from @harristeeter 🍔 These frozen cheese-stuffed burger patties are packed with melty cheese inside, so every bite tastes like a gourmet restaurant-style cheeseburger right at home!

One of my favorite things about these burgers is how quick and easy they are to make. There’s no need to thaw them first, just take the patties straight from the freezer, throw them on the grill for about 6 minutes per side, and dinner is ready in under 15 minutes! Perfect for summer cookouts, busy weeknights, backyard BBQs, and weekend grilling with family and friends.

If you love juicy cheeseburgers, easy grilling ideas, and simple summer dinner recipes, definitely head to your local Harris Teeter and grab these Juicy Lucy Burgers to try this summer too! 🍔☀️
Chapter 33 is here 🎉 And today officially marks 2 Chapter 33 is here 🎉 And today officially marks 2 weeks post-op from my endometriosis excision surgery! Honestly, the best birthday gift I could ask for is finally being cleared to soak in the hot tub and take my scalding hot baths again 😂 If you know me, then you know how much I’ve missed my hot baths during recovery these past two weeks!

At first, I was told no soaking for 4 weeks, so finding out it was only 2 weeks truly felt like a win  So today’s plans include lots of relaxing, healing, hot tub time, hanging out with my hubby, and continuing to take it easy while my body recovers from surgery.

And because life has a sense of humor, I also have pelvic floor physical therapy today too… nothing says “happy 33rd birthday” quite like a PT appointment 🤣 But honestly, I’m just thankful to be healing, feeling better, and moving forward in my endometriosis recovery journey one day at a time. 💛

Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/64pMr
POV: You’re stuck recovering in bed so you cope by POV: You’re stuck recovering in bed so you cope by binge reading psychological thriller books 🤣📚

Since I’ve been laying around recovering with not much to do, I’ve spent most of my time completely hooked on some of the best psychological thriller books I’ve read in a while. Honestly, these twisty thriller novels have been the perfect distraction and now I need everyone to read them with me 👀 If you love dark thrillers, shocking endings, suspenseful books, and plot twists you NEVER see coming… add these to your TBR immediately!

📖 My recent psychological thriller book recommendations:

1️⃣ Gray After Dark — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I could NOT put this one down. Definitely my favorite thriller out of all of them! It had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end and the twists were insane. Dark, suspenseful, creepy, and so addictive. If you love fast-paced psychological thrillers, this one is a MUST READ.

2️⃣ Drowning in Paper Flowers — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another thriller that completely consumed me. Every time I thought I had it figured out, the story surprised me again. The ending?! Absolutely wild.

3️⃣ Her First Lie — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such a fun and twisty thriller read! Plus there was briefly a character named Charity in it which made me weirdly excited because I NEVER find my name in books 🤣

4️⃣ The Bartender — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Loved this easy thriller read! It has multiple POVs which can sometimes lose me, but this one was done really well and kept me hooked the whole time.

5️⃣ The Missing Ones — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Probably my least favorite of the bunch, mainly because the multiple POVs got a little confusing for me. BUT the storyline was super dark, twisty, and entertaining the entire time.

If you’re into thriller books, psychological suspense novels, mystery books with shocking twists, or binge-worthy reads that keep you up way too late… save this list for later 📚✨

Now tell me your favorite psychological thriller book because apparently this is my entire personality while I’m recovering 😂 

Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/ #tbrlist #thrillerbooks #psycologicalthriller #bookstagrammer #thrillerbook
Just reminiscing about our trip to Hilton Head Isl Just reminiscing about our trip to Hilton Head Island last month and already wishing we could go back! 🌴 Even though the weather didn’t exactly cooperate with us 😂 we still found SO many fun things to do around the island and honestly had the best time exploring. From beautiful beaches and cozy restaurants to shopping, sightseeing, and hidden gems, there’s so much to experience on Hilton Head Island, even on chilly or rainy days!

I finally finished my full Hilton Head Island travel blog post too, and it’s packed with all of our favorite spots, things to do, where to eat, and tips for first-time visitors! If you’re planning a Hilton Head vacation, family beach trip, or weekend getaway to South Carolina, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip 🏖️✨

Comment “Hilton Head” below and I’ll send you the blog post link! 💛 #hiltonhead #hiltonheadisland #hiltonheadsc #hiltonheadvacation #explorehiltonhead
Fresh cut peonies in a mason jar might just be my Fresh cut peonies in a mason jar might just be my favorite simple summer decor 🌸 There’s truly nothing prettier than fresh peony blooms brightening up the kitchen and making the whole house feel cozy, cottagecore, and cheerful. I only wish peony season lasted longer because these gorgeous flowers bloom way too fast! 🩷 Wishing you all a slow, happy Saturday filled with sunshine, fresh flowers, and little moments that make home feel special! #peonies #peoniesbouquet #peoniesofinstagram #peoniesaremyfavorite #peonieseason
POV: You’re a cat mom and Easter never actually en POV: You’re a cat mom and Easter never actually ends 😂🐣 Months later and I’m STILL finding plastic Easter eggs hidden all over my house thanks to my cats. Apparently seasonal home decor is way more exciting than the basket full of actual cat toys I bought them 😹

At this point, my cats have turned my home into a year-round Easter egg hunt. One day it’s Easter eggs under the couch, the next it’s Christmas ornaments rolling down the hallway, and somehow little pumpkins disappear every fall too 🤣 If you have indoor cats, you already know that no cute decor is ever truly safe.

Honestly though, finding random Easter eggs around the house months later has become one of my favorite funny cat mom moments 😂 I just wish my cats would at least start hiding money or candy inside them to make this surprise treasure hunt a little more rewarding next time 😜 #catmomlife #catmom #funnycat #funnycats #catmomproblems
I loved these faux ferns on my front porch so much I loved these faux ferns on my front porch so much that I immediately ordered them for the back porch too 🙌 and honestly… best decision ever.

No watering. No dying plants. No stress.
Especially while I’m still recovering from surgery—because let’s be real, plant care is not happening right now 🤣

These look SO real, add the perfect cozy touch to any outdoor space, and are completely maintenance-free. If you’ve been wanting that lush, green porch vibe without the upkeep… these are it.

Perfect for:
✔️ Front porch decor
✔️ Back patio styling
✔️ Low-maintenance outdoor plants
✔️ Faux plant lovers

Comment “SHOP” and I’ll send you the link 🌿 #porchdecor #ferns #fern #hangingbaskets #hangingbasket
Flower Lovin’ Friends! One week post-op from end Flower Lovin’ Friends! 

One week post-op from endometriosis excision surgery and finally starting to feel a little like myself again 🙌🏻

This past weekend was rough. Lots of pain and very little energy, but I’m happy to say I think I’m finally turning a corner. The intense pain has eased, and now it’s more soreness and discomfort (which I will gladly take over that pain any day!).

I also got my pathology report back and everything came back non-cancerous, just endometriosis, which is such a huge relief 💛

The biggest struggle right now? Post-surgery fatigue is no joke. I’ll think I have enough energy to do something simple like water my flowers, and my body immediately humbles me 😅 So I’m learning (slowly lol) to rest, listen to my body, and take recovery one day at a time.

Healing isn’t linear, but we’re getting there, slow and steady 💫 Thank you all so much for the love, prayers, and support… it truly means everything to me.

Happy Wednesday, friends 🤍

#endometriosis #endosurgery #endometriosissurgery #excisionsurgery

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Do you really wanna know where I was April 29th?! Do you really wanna know where I was April 29th?! In surgery actually!! 🤣

I’ve been meaning to share an update since my surgery on Wednesday, but honestly, this recovery has been way harder than I expected. This was my second endometriosis surgery, but my first was just an ablation… and this time I had excision surgery. And when I say it feels like my insides went through a cheese grater… I wish I was kidding 🫠

But I have to take a moment to say how incredibly grateful I am for the team at UNC Hillsborough. From the moment I arrived, every single person who was in the OR came in, introduced themselves, reassured me, and truly cared. That kind of compassion in healthcare is rare, and I felt so at peace going into surgery.

My surgeon was absolutely amazing and believes she was able to remove all of my endometriosis 🙌🏼 We were really concerned it had spread to my bowels based on my symptoms, but thankfully it hadn’t. There was a nodule just millimeters away (which was likely causing so much of my pain), but she was able to remove it safely, meaning I don’t need another surgery with a colorectal specialist, which was my biggest fear.

I go back on May 22 for my post-op appointment to talk about next steps and treatment options. Unfortunately, endometriosis has no cure… and it can come back. There’s still such a lack of research and funding for women dealing with this disease, and that’s something that needs to change.

It’s also heartbreaking that we had to travel 3.5 hours just to receive this level of care. After years of being dismissed and gaslit by doctors, I finally feel like I’m on the right path.

I’m so thankful for my husband and my family who have been by my side through all of this. I’m praying this surgery gives me years of relief and a chance to live more pain-free 💛

If you’re struggling with endometriosis, I see you. You’re not alone. Please reach out to me if you are suffering too, I’d love to share more of my experience with you and help you the best way I can as well! #surgeryrecovery #endometriosis #endometriosissurgery #endometriosissupport #endowarrior
Alright y’all, I’ve officially checked in at UNC a Alright y’all, I’ve officially checked in at UNC and I’m just waiting to be called back! They even moved up my arrival time (bless 🙌🏻), but I’ve still got a couple hours to sit here and let the nerves + hanger kick in. And also how sexy does this surgical cap look on me?! 😆

After a brutal pain flare last night, I am MORE than ready to kick endometriosis’ ass today and finally get some relief 🙏 Time to evict everything that’s been causing all this chaos 😜

So help a girl out: drop your favorite distractions, funny stories, or literally anything to pass the time while I wait! Let’s do this!🫶 #endometriosis #endometriosiswarrior #endometriosissurgery #chronicillnesswarrior #excisionsurgery
Final meal, last hot bath, last hot tub soak, and Final meal, last hot bath, last hot tub soak, and ALL the feels before surgery tomorrow 🥹✨

Just soaking in every little moment today before my endometriosis surgery tomorrow. Started the morning with a cozy breakfast + cappuccino date with my sweet mama at @yellowmugcoffeelounge - aka my last meal before surgery 👀

I’m usually not a big breakfast girl, but you already know I made it count 😂 because pre-surgery rules = no food after 9 am this morning. Then I got the call that my arrival time moved up from 3:30 PM to 2:00 PM 🙌🏻 and honestly… I’ll take that win. The sooner it starts, the sooner recovery begins.

Today is all about the little things I won’t be able to do for a few weeks; long, scalding hot baths, hot tub soaks, and just slowing down. If you know me, you know hot baths are my daily therapy, so not having them for 4 weeks might be the real challenge 😅

But surprisingly, I feel really calm and at peace heading into this. Just ready to get through surgery and start healing 💛 And I feel all the prayers coming through, so thank you guys so much for all your support and love!

If you’ve had endometriosis surgery, hysterectomy, or any abdominal surgery, drop your recovery tips below. I’m all ears 🙏🏼 #daybeforesurgery #endometriosis #endometriosissurgery #surgeryprep #abdominalsurgery
If quick, easy dinners are your love language righ If quick, easy dinners are your love language right now, this one’s for you 🙌

I’ve been OBSESSED with @hungryroot lately for simple, healthy meals, especially this chicken BBQ flatbread 🤤 With surgery coming up (and recovery after), I need meals that are fast, low-effort, and still taste amazing… and this checks every box.

Everything gets delivered straight to your door, and most meals are ready in 15 minutes or less 🙌 No stress, no extra planning, just easy weeknight dinners you’ll actually look forward to.

If you’re looking for:
✨ quick dinner ideas
✨ easy weeknight meals
✨ healthy meal delivery
✨ low-effort recipes during busy seasons

…this is it 👏

Use my code “charity40” to get 40% off your first box + a FREE gift 🎁

Comment “Hungryroot” and I’ll send you the link! #hungryroot #hungryrootrecipes #hungryroot #postopmeals #postopmealideas
Instagram turned my last surgery prep video into A Instagram turned my last surgery prep video into Alvin & the Chipmunks 😭🤣

So if you saw my endometriosis surgery packing reel sounding like I inhaled helium all day… no you didn’t 😂 I have NO idea what happened, but we’re rolling with it lol.

Since that was a fail, I put together a hospital bag essentials carousel for endometriosis surgery / laparoscopy / hysterectomy prep so you can actually hear (and see) everything clearly this time 🙃

If you have endometriosis excision surgery or any kind of abdominal surgery coming up, this is everything I’m bringing to stay comfortable, prepared, and (hopefully) make recovery a little easier 🤍

We do have a 3.5 hour drive home after surgery, which honestly makes me a little nervous 😅 so I’m trying to be extra prepared this time around.

If you’ve had endometriosis surgery before, what am I missing?!
What helped you the MOST during recovery?
Any must-have items for a long car ride home post-op?

I’m so ready to finally get this done and hopefully get some relief from endo pain 🙌🏻 counting down the days!! And if you have a surgery like this coming up too and want my list of essentials sent your way, just comment “endo” below and I’ll send them straight to you! 😉 #minimallyinvasivesurgery #surgeryessentials #surgeryprep #endometriosissurgery #endometriosisexcision
POV: You realize you have to remove your dip nails POV: You realize you have to remove your dip nails AND fast for 32+ hours before surgery 😅

I was honestly so sad taking off my dip powder nails for my upcoming endometriosis surgery next week. My natural nails have grown SO well with dip, but the second it comes off, they go right back to being super thin and fragile… and yep, one already broke 😭

But let’s be real… that’s not even the hardest part of surgery prep. I can’t eat anything after 9:00 AM the day before, and my surgery isn’t until late the NEXT day (arrival at 3:30 PM 😅). So we’re talking about a full 30+ hour fast before surgery… and I already know I’m about to be HANGRY 🫠

If you’ve had endometriosis surgery, hysterectomy, or any major surgery, tell me, how did you survive the fasting?! Drop your tips below because I need them 🙏

Just Trying to stay calm, trust God, and remind myself this is one step closer to answers + healing 💛

#endometriosis #endometriosissurgery #surgeryprep #minimallyinvasivesurgery #endometriosiswarrior
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Mornings on Macedonia

DIY, Decor, & More

Lifestyle · August 11, 2022

Back to School Essentials

Okay so spoiler alert- I am not going back to school. BUT, I am a total nerd and I absolutely LOVE stationary, planners, new pens, the whole nine yards! And I’ve recently partnered up with Erin Condren to share the best back to school essentials ever.

And, just like me, you don’t have to be going back to school to use them. Going back to school is no longer just for kids and this brand new collection is proof of that! It comes with everything you need to refresh your desk or office space.

Not only is everything fun, but functional too! We’re talking brand new stationary, writing tools, and organizing must-haves that are also designed to bring you joy by their pretty appearance.

Y’all already know what a huge Erin Condren fan I am. I’ve already shared that they make the best life planners around! So If you’re a nerd like me, be sure to check out this brand new and fun collection too!

Back to School Essentials

This post contains affiliate links. Click here to read my disclosure policy.

What Are the Back to School Essentials?

So now I am going to highlight everything that came in my back to school collection box. I’m not gonna lie y’all, this is so much fun for me! I used to love going back to school shopping (both for clothes and supplies) and there is nothing like some brand new pens and pretty folders.

Because of that, I am greatly enjoying myself testing out all the new goodies and sharing them with you. I may not be going back to school, but I do use a lot of these products in my daily life. I am old school and love to write down appointments and everything in a planner.

And I like to brainstorm blogging ideas in an actual paper notebook. As I mentioned in my Haven Conference recap, I love to actually take notes too whenever I am in a class. I feel like I learn even better when I write things down.

Daily Routine and Ritual Notebook

This notebook is brand new and literally just launched on August 10th. So it is just a few days old! Get your hands on this notebook to start discovering what your daily routines and rituals are.

I am excited to jot some of mine down from day to day and see which ones I am more prone to. And which ones I actually stick with and like.

In Bloom Academic Planner

Okay, an academic planner is obviously a must for some back to school essentials. I feel like if you really are a student, you gotta have one! Definitely helps you stay organized with all your upcoming classes and/or assignments as well.

Weekly Habits Sticky Notepad

This one kind of goes along with the daily routine and ritual notebook. But it’s in sticky pad form which is even easier to write down a few notes for it!

Color Change Pen Set 6pk

Um, excuse me?? Color changing pens?! Sign me up please because how fun is that?! Make your note taking go to the next level with these fun pens!

Student Weekly Schedule Deskpad

This is another back to school essential if you truly are a student. This would be perfect to keep on your desk to help you be able to quickly organize everything with just a glance!

Sticky Note Ball

Okay, I’m sorry, a sticky note ball?! Again, how much fun is that?! Why weren’t these cute things around back when I was in school?

Vegan Leather Folio

I definitely geeked out on this beautiful leather folio. It can hold so many things since there are so many different sized pockets and everything in it.

I immediately thought that it can hold some of my business cards and things like that. So if you’re a blogger too, then you definitely should invest in one of these. Plus, the vegan leather is so soft and buttery!

Blush Calculator

I mean you gotta have a calculator on your desk right? And not just any old calculator, but a cute blush one obviously!

Gold Bookmark Ruler

Same thing goes for rulers too, right? It needs to be gold and shiny and pretty! I also love how this one doubles as a bookmark too! Bonus points!

Lined 3 Subject Notebook

These are my favorite notebooks and the ones I use to brainstorm all my blog ideas. Plus, it’s definitely another back to school essential for students for sure! You can’t really go to school without notebooks, can you?

And can they be any cuter? Erin Condren has so many beautiful designs to choose from. There is literally something for everyone on their site!

Heading Back to School

Well, whether you’re heading back to school or just to your office, I hope this post gave you some great ideas on cute and functional back to school essentials! Have you ever used any Erin Condren products before too?!

If so, which ones are your favorites? I would love to know! Let me know in the comments below and thank you so much for stopping by my friends!

My Back to School Essentials
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In: Lifestyle · Tagged: Back to school, Erin Condren

About Charity Gentry

I love Jesus, coffee, and home decor. I also love to cook and bake as well as read in my spare time! Follow along with me for all my latest DIY projects and ideas!

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Comments

  1. LaKisha Mosley says

    August 12, 2022 at 2:39 pm

    Love this post. Thanks for sharing these products.

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 13, 2022 at 11:43 pm

      Thank you! They are some great products for sure!

      Reply
  2. Nyxie says

    August 12, 2022 at 3:20 pm

    While I’m not going back to school, I do love to use this time to get organised for a new season. I love all the wee organisation things that pop up for back to schoolers.

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 13, 2022 at 11:44 pm

      Yes, I am the same way! I am not going back to school either, but love these essentials to help refresh my desk/office space!

      Reply
  3. Caroline says

    August 12, 2022 at 5:19 pm

    The best thing about going back to school was restocking my stationery! I tend to mostly use my laptop for uni now, but still use plenty of stationary for my bullet journal. The sticky note ball looks like fun 🙂

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 13, 2022 at 11:44 pm

      Thank you! It sure is! Love fun stationary products like that!

      Reply
  4. readandreviewit says

    August 12, 2022 at 6:45 pm

    Ooh I love this! I’m a massive stationery lover but somehow hadn’t heard of Erin Condren before – I’ll have to check it out! I’m starting uni in September and this gave me so many ideas. The post it note ball and colour changing pens both look super fun! Thank you so much for sharing x

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 13, 2022 at 11:45 pm

      Oh my gosh! You have to check out Erin Condren then! She has so many cute things!!

      Reply
  5. Lucy says

    August 12, 2022 at 6:51 pm

    These are really great back-to-school essentials, I love the leather folio and the calculated, they’re cute!

    Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 13, 2022 at 11:45 pm

      Thank you so much! I love those products too!

      Reply
  6. Savannah says

    August 13, 2022 at 12:36 am

    Great post! I’m a 27 year old woman who is also definitely not going to school, but I feel exactly the same way about stationary, lol. These are wonderful picks! Thank you so much for sharing.

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 13, 2022 at 11:45 pm

      Lol glad I am not the only one that feels that way about stationary too!

      Reply
  7. Elements of Happy says

    August 13, 2022 at 2:39 pm

    I got so excited reading this and I’m not even going to school! Haha. I love this. The sticky note ball is the cutest.

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 13, 2022 at 11:46 pm

      Lol that’s how I was too. I’m not going back to school either, but I love all these pieces!

      Reply
  8. Riyah Speaks says

    August 15, 2022 at 3:10 pm

    I’m not going back to school but I’m such a sucker for stationary supplies. The ones that you shared are so cute.

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 15, 2022 at 9:38 pm

      Thank you. I am the same way. Love all the cute stationary pieces!

      Reply
  9. Jenny in Neverland says

    August 15, 2022 at 3:53 pm

    Cute stationery! I love stationery too but I wouldn’t need such an extensive amount now, I left school many years ago! I do miss doing all the stationery shopping before September!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 15, 2022 at 9:39 pm

      Yeah, I am not in school either but I love having all these piece for my desk and office space.

      Reply
  10. lifestyleseason says

    August 15, 2022 at 4:16 pm

    Great post! I love buying stationary for back to school as well! These items look great and I especially love the planners since I use them a lot for blogging and everyday life!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 15, 2022 at 9:39 pm

      Thank you so much! I use the planners the most too! They are very helpful when it comes to blogging!

      Reply
  11. Julian says

    August 15, 2022 at 4:52 pm

    The noteball and pens are so cool! And I am a sucker for a good planner/list maker. Great tips!

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 15, 2022 at 9:39 pm

      Thank you so much. I think they are too!

      Reply
  12. ellegracedeveson says

    August 15, 2022 at 6:51 pm

    You’ve shared some great school essentials which I’ll defiantly be sharing with friends and family. I think we all find posts like this beneficial as remembering everything can be a nightmare. Thank you so much for sharing this with us lovely Xo

    Elle – ellegracedeveson.com

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 15, 2022 at 9:40 pm

      Thank you so much. I totally agree. I have to have everything written down or else I won’t remember any of it lol

      Reply
  13. Britt says

    August 15, 2022 at 7:43 pm

    These are all so much fun – I love the weekly habits tracker. As someone with ADD, trying to stick to a daily routine is a struggle at the best of times haha! That’s something that I could definitely see helping to keep me organized.

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 15, 2022 at 9:40 pm

      Thank you! Yes, that weekly habits tracker is very beneficial for sure.

      Reply
  14. Jaya says

    August 15, 2022 at 8:51 pm

    I’m headed to university, so this list was so helpful! Love the looks of the calculator and folio. 🥰

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 15, 2022 at 9:41 pm

      Oh yay. I am glad you found the list to be helpful then!

      Reply
  15. Roaring Pumpkin says

    August 15, 2022 at 9:14 pm

    I’m a total nerd for stationery as well! I absolutely love all the items of this list and want to purchase 🙂

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 15, 2022 at 9:41 pm

      Thank you so much. You definitely should! Erin Condren pieces are the best!

      Reply
  16. Design lover says

    August 16, 2022 at 2:59 pm

    I’m not a student now, but I really enjoyed your blog post. Actually, I’m in love with pens, planners and all these stuff shopping. And I’m not going to stop it, haha 🙂

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 16, 2022 at 10:29 pm

      Thank you! I am the same way. Not a student, but still love this kind of stuff!

      Reply
  17. Andrea Hunt says

    August 16, 2022 at 7:37 pm

    I was today old when I realized I needed a sticky note ball!! That looks so cool! 😀 Great post thanks for sharing! 🙂

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 16, 2022 at 10:30 pm

      Lol right?! Every adult needs a sticky note ball!

      Reply
  18. Toby Raymon says

    August 17, 2022 at 10:32 am

    Yes, all these products are definitely useful either one is in school or not. But my favourite has to be the that blush calculator.🥺😍

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 17, 2022 at 10:58 pm

      Thank you! I love that one too! And it is so handy!

      Reply
  19. Basic With Life says

    August 17, 2022 at 8:53 pm

    I’m a stationery addict so I love this post. Suddenly my post it pad is boring, the cube of post it notes is super cute. I want it. 😂
    Thank you for sharing.

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 17, 2022 at 10:59 pm

      Awe so glad you enjoyed it too then! Thank you!

      Reply
  20. Pastor Natalie (ExamineThisMoment) says

    August 18, 2022 at 12:55 am

    Such a great list not only for back to school but products that can be used for various projects and in the workplace. Thank you for sharing these suggestions.

    Pastor Natalie (ExamineThisMoment)
    Letstakeamoment.com

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 18, 2022 at 11:21 pm

      No problem at all! Glad you enjoyed this list too!

      Reply
  21. pinecanvasblog says

    August 19, 2022 at 1:09 pm

    Great review and really essential thing. I am going to school, but I think from the previous year that a good pen (bought 4 colors in 1), notepad and tablet will be enough. Maybe. Though this sticky note ball is really cool and who said you can only use it while in school? It would be perfect for office/kitchen also for quick notes 🙂

    Reply
    • Charity Gentry says

      August 19, 2022 at 5:38 pm

      Yes, I am using it in my office too because I am not going back to school either. These make perfect office accessories too!

      Reply
  22. Melissa says

    August 20, 2022 at 4:17 am

    I like back-to-school items too. I do like the new items that you have listed for back-to-school. Excellent post.

    Reply

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I seriously can’t believe how fast May has flown b I seriously can’t believe how fast May has flown by! And the fact that it’s already Memorial Day weekend coming up!! I had a feeling it would since I’ve been on surgery leave and recovering this month 😜 But one thing I’m SO glad I did before surgery was get all of my patriotic summer decor put out early because I definitely wouldn’t have felt like decorating afterward.

Now I actually get to sit back, relax, and enjoy all the cozy red, white, and blue vibes around the house all summer long ❤️ There’s just something about patriotic home decor, American flag accents, and a festive coffee bar that makes everything feel like summertime is officially here!

So here’s a little peek at my patriotic coffee bar setup in all its red, white, and blue glory today 🇺🇸☕️ And honestly? I’ll probably leave it up all summer because I love it that much 😂
#patrioticvibes #patrioticdecor #coffeebar #vintagepatriotic #americandecor
AD If you’re looking for the ultimate easy summer AD If you’re looking for the ultimate easy summer grilling recipe, you’ve got to try the @juicy_lucyburger burgers from @harristeeter 🍔 These frozen cheese-stuffed burger patties are packed with melty cheese inside, so every bite tastes like a gourmet restaurant-style cheeseburger right at home!

One of my favorite things about these burgers is how quick and easy they are to make. There’s no need to thaw them first, just take the patties straight from the freezer, throw them on the grill for about 6 minutes per side, and dinner is ready in under 15 minutes! Perfect for summer cookouts, busy weeknights, backyard BBQs, and weekend grilling with family and friends.

If you love juicy cheeseburgers, easy grilling ideas, and simple summer dinner recipes, definitely head to your local Harris Teeter and grab these Juicy Lucy Burgers to try this summer too! 🍔☀️
Chapter 33 is here 🎉 And today officially marks 2 Chapter 33 is here 🎉 And today officially marks 2 weeks post-op from my endometriosis excision surgery! Honestly, the best birthday gift I could ask for is finally being cleared to soak in the hot tub and take my scalding hot baths again 😂 If you know me, then you know how much I’ve missed my hot baths during recovery these past two weeks!

At first, I was told no soaking for 4 weeks, so finding out it was only 2 weeks truly felt like a win  So today’s plans include lots of relaxing, healing, hot tub time, hanging out with my hubby, and continuing to take it easy while my body recovers from surgery.

And because life has a sense of humor, I also have pelvic floor physical therapy today too… nothing says “happy 33rd birthday” quite like a PT appointment 🤣 But honestly, I’m just thankful to be healing, feeling better, and moving forward in my endometriosis recovery journey one day at a time. 💛

Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/64pMr
POV: You’re stuck recovering in bed so you cope by POV: You’re stuck recovering in bed so you cope by binge reading psychological thriller books 🤣📚

Since I’ve been laying around recovering with not much to do, I’ve spent most of my time completely hooked on some of the best psychological thriller books I’ve read in a while. Honestly, these twisty thriller novels have been the perfect distraction and now I need everyone to read them with me 👀 If you love dark thrillers, shocking endings, suspenseful books, and plot twists you NEVER see coming… add these to your TBR immediately!

📖 My recent psychological thriller book recommendations:

1️⃣ Gray After Dark — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I could NOT put this one down. Definitely my favorite thriller out of all of them! It had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end and the twists were insane. Dark, suspenseful, creepy, and so addictive. If you love fast-paced psychological thrillers, this one is a MUST READ.

2️⃣ Drowning in Paper Flowers — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another thriller that completely consumed me. Every time I thought I had it figured out, the story surprised me again. The ending?! Absolutely wild.

3️⃣ Her First Lie — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Such a fun and twisty thriller read! Plus there was briefly a character named Charity in it which made me weirdly excited because I NEVER find my name in books 🤣

4️⃣ The Bartender — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Loved this easy thriller read! It has multiple POVs which can sometimes lose me, but this one was done really well and kept me hooked the whole time.

5️⃣ The Missing Ones — ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Probably my least favorite of the bunch, mainly because the multiple POVs got a little confusing for me. BUT the storyline was super dark, twisty, and entertaining the entire time.

If you’re into thriller books, psychological suspense novels, mystery books with shocking twists, or binge-worthy reads that keep you up way too late… save this list for later 📚✨

Now tell me your favorite psychological thriller book because apparently this is my entire personality while I’m recovering 😂 

Comment SHOP below to receive a DM with the link to this post on my LTK ⬇ https://liketk.it/ #tbrlist #thrillerbooks #psycologicalthriller #bookstagrammer #thrillerbook
Just reminiscing about our trip to Hilton Head Isl Just reminiscing about our trip to Hilton Head Island last month and already wishing we could go back! 🌴 Even though the weather didn’t exactly cooperate with us 😂 we still found SO many fun things to do around the island and honestly had the best time exploring. From beautiful beaches and cozy restaurants to shopping, sightseeing, and hidden gems, there’s so much to experience on Hilton Head Island, even on chilly or rainy days!

I finally finished my full Hilton Head Island travel blog post too, and it’s packed with all of our favorite spots, things to do, where to eat, and tips for first-time visitors! If you’re planning a Hilton Head vacation, family beach trip, or weekend getaway to South Carolina, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip 🏖️✨

Comment “Hilton Head” below and I’ll send you the blog post link! 💛 #hiltonhead #hiltonheadisland #hiltonheadsc #hiltonheadvacation #explorehiltonhead
Fresh cut peonies in a mason jar might just be my Fresh cut peonies in a mason jar might just be my favorite simple summer decor 🌸 There’s truly nothing prettier than fresh peony blooms brightening up the kitchen and making the whole house feel cozy, cottagecore, and cheerful. I only wish peony season lasted longer because these gorgeous flowers bloom way too fast! 🩷 Wishing you all a slow, happy Saturday filled with sunshine, fresh flowers, and little moments that make home feel special! #peonies #peoniesbouquet #peoniesofinstagram #peoniesaremyfavorite #peonieseason
POV: You’re a cat mom and Easter never actually en POV: You’re a cat mom and Easter never actually ends 😂🐣 Months later and I’m STILL finding plastic Easter eggs hidden all over my house thanks to my cats. Apparently seasonal home decor is way more exciting than the basket full of actual cat toys I bought them 😹

At this point, my cats have turned my home into a year-round Easter egg hunt. One day it’s Easter eggs under the couch, the next it’s Christmas ornaments rolling down the hallway, and somehow little pumpkins disappear every fall too 🤣 If you have indoor cats, you already know that no cute decor is ever truly safe.

Honestly though, finding random Easter eggs around the house months later has become one of my favorite funny cat mom moments 😂 I just wish my cats would at least start hiding money or candy inside them to make this surprise treasure hunt a little more rewarding next time 😜 #catmomlife #catmom #funnycat #funnycats #catmomproblems
I loved these faux ferns on my front porch so much I loved these faux ferns on my front porch so much that I immediately ordered them for the back porch too 🙌 and honestly… best decision ever.

No watering. No dying plants. No stress.
Especially while I’m still recovering from surgery—because let’s be real, plant care is not happening right now 🤣

These look SO real, add the perfect cozy touch to any outdoor space, and are completely maintenance-free. If you’ve been wanting that lush, green porch vibe without the upkeep… these are it.

Perfect for:
✔️ Front porch decor
✔️ Back patio styling
✔️ Low-maintenance outdoor plants
✔️ Faux plant lovers

Comment “SHOP” and I’ll send you the link 🌿 #porchdecor #ferns #fern #hangingbaskets #hangingbasket
Flower Lovin’ Friends! One week post-op from end Flower Lovin’ Friends! 

One week post-op from endometriosis excision surgery and finally starting to feel a little like myself again 🙌🏻

This past weekend was rough. Lots of pain and very little energy, but I’m happy to say I think I’m finally turning a corner. The intense pain has eased, and now it’s more soreness and discomfort (which I will gladly take over that pain any day!).

I also got my pathology report back and everything came back non-cancerous, just endometriosis, which is such a huge relief 💛

The biggest struggle right now? Post-surgery fatigue is no joke. I’ll think I have enough energy to do something simple like water my flowers, and my body immediately humbles me 😅 So I’m learning (slowly lol) to rest, listen to my body, and take recovery one day at a time.

Healing isn’t linear, but we’re getting there, slow and steady 💫 Thank you all so much for the love, prayers, and support… it truly means everything to me.

Happy Wednesday, friends 🤍

#endometriosis #endosurgery #endometriosissurgery #excisionsurgery

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Do you really wanna know where I was April 29th?! Do you really wanna know where I was April 29th?! In surgery actually!! 🤣

I’ve been meaning to share an update since my surgery on Wednesday, but honestly, this recovery has been way harder than I expected. This was my second endometriosis surgery, but my first was just an ablation… and this time I had excision surgery. And when I say it feels like my insides went through a cheese grater… I wish I was kidding 🫠

But I have to take a moment to say how incredibly grateful I am for the team at UNC Hillsborough. From the moment I arrived, every single person who was in the OR came in, introduced themselves, reassured me, and truly cared. That kind of compassion in healthcare is rare, and I felt so at peace going into surgery.

My surgeon was absolutely amazing and believes she was able to remove all of my endometriosis 🙌🏼 We were really concerned it had spread to my bowels based on my symptoms, but thankfully it hadn’t. There was a nodule just millimeters away (which was likely causing so much of my pain), but she was able to remove it safely, meaning I don’t need another surgery with a colorectal specialist, which was my biggest fear.

I go back on May 22 for my post-op appointment to talk about next steps and treatment options. Unfortunately, endometriosis has no cure… and it can come back. There’s still such a lack of research and funding for women dealing with this disease, and that’s something that needs to change.

It’s also heartbreaking that we had to travel 3.5 hours just to receive this level of care. After years of being dismissed and gaslit by doctors, I finally feel like I’m on the right path.

I’m so thankful for my husband and my family who have been by my side through all of this. I’m praying this surgery gives me years of relief and a chance to live more pain-free 💛

If you’re struggling with endometriosis, I see you. You’re not alone. Please reach out to me if you are suffering too, I’d love to share more of my experience with you and help you the best way I can as well! #surgeryrecovery #endometriosis #endometriosissurgery #endometriosissupport #endowarrior
Alright y’all, I’ve officially checked in at UNC a Alright y’all, I’ve officially checked in at UNC and I’m just waiting to be called back! They even moved up my arrival time (bless 🙌🏻), but I’ve still got a couple hours to sit here and let the nerves + hanger kick in. And also how sexy does this surgical cap look on me?! 😆

After a brutal pain flare last night, I am MORE than ready to kick endometriosis’ ass today and finally get some relief 🙏 Time to evict everything that’s been causing all this chaos 😜

So help a girl out: drop your favorite distractions, funny stories, or literally anything to pass the time while I wait! Let’s do this!🫶 #endometriosis #endometriosiswarrior #endometriosissurgery #chronicillnesswarrior #excisionsurgery
Final meal, last hot bath, last hot tub soak, and Final meal, last hot bath, last hot tub soak, and ALL the feels before surgery tomorrow 🥹✨

Just soaking in every little moment today before my endometriosis surgery tomorrow. Started the morning with a cozy breakfast + cappuccino date with my sweet mama at @yellowmugcoffeelounge - aka my last meal before surgery 👀

I’m usually not a big breakfast girl, but you already know I made it count 😂 because pre-surgery rules = no food after 9 am this morning. Then I got the call that my arrival time moved up from 3:30 PM to 2:00 PM 🙌🏻 and honestly… I’ll take that win. The sooner it starts, the sooner recovery begins.

Today is all about the little things I won’t be able to do for a few weeks; long, scalding hot baths, hot tub soaks, and just slowing down. If you know me, you know hot baths are my daily therapy, so not having them for 4 weeks might be the real challenge 😅

But surprisingly, I feel really calm and at peace heading into this. Just ready to get through surgery and start healing 💛 And I feel all the prayers coming through, so thank you guys so much for all your support and love!

If you’ve had endometriosis surgery, hysterectomy, or any abdominal surgery, drop your recovery tips below. I’m all ears 🙏🏼 #daybeforesurgery #endometriosis #endometriosissurgery #surgeryprep #abdominalsurgery
If quick, easy dinners are your love language righ If quick, easy dinners are your love language right now, this one’s for you 🙌

I’ve been OBSESSED with @hungryroot lately for simple, healthy meals, especially this chicken BBQ flatbread 🤤 With surgery coming up (and recovery after), I need meals that are fast, low-effort, and still taste amazing… and this checks every box.

Everything gets delivered straight to your door, and most meals are ready in 15 minutes or less 🙌 No stress, no extra planning, just easy weeknight dinners you’ll actually look forward to.

If you’re looking for:
✨ quick dinner ideas
✨ easy weeknight meals
✨ healthy meal delivery
✨ low-effort recipes during busy seasons

…this is it 👏

Use my code “charity40” to get 40% off your first box + a FREE gift 🎁

Comment “Hungryroot” and I’ll send you the link! #hungryroot #hungryrootrecipes #hungryroot #postopmeals #postopmealideas
Instagram turned my last surgery prep video into A Instagram turned my last surgery prep video into Alvin & the Chipmunks 😭🤣

So if you saw my endometriosis surgery packing reel sounding like I inhaled helium all day… no you didn’t 😂 I have NO idea what happened, but we’re rolling with it lol.

Since that was a fail, I put together a hospital bag essentials carousel for endometriosis surgery / laparoscopy / hysterectomy prep so you can actually hear (and see) everything clearly this time 🙃

If you have endometriosis excision surgery or any kind of abdominal surgery coming up, this is everything I’m bringing to stay comfortable, prepared, and (hopefully) make recovery a little easier 🤍

We do have a 3.5 hour drive home after surgery, which honestly makes me a little nervous 😅 so I’m trying to be extra prepared this time around.

If you’ve had endometriosis surgery before, what am I missing?!
What helped you the MOST during recovery?
Any must-have items for a long car ride home post-op?

I’m so ready to finally get this done and hopefully get some relief from endo pain 🙌🏻 counting down the days!! And if you have a surgery like this coming up too and want my list of essentials sent your way, just comment “endo” below and I’ll send them straight to you! 😉 #minimallyinvasivesurgery #surgeryessentials #surgeryprep #endometriosissurgery #endometriosisexcision
POV: You realize you have to remove your dip nails POV: You realize you have to remove your dip nails AND fast for 32+ hours before surgery 😅

I was honestly so sad taking off my dip powder nails for my upcoming endometriosis surgery next week. My natural nails have grown SO well with dip, but the second it comes off, they go right back to being super thin and fragile… and yep, one already broke 😭

But let’s be real… that’s not even the hardest part of surgery prep. I can’t eat anything after 9:00 AM the day before, and my surgery isn’t until late the NEXT day (arrival at 3:30 PM 😅). So we’re talking about a full 30+ hour fast before surgery… and I already know I’m about to be HANGRY 🫠

If you’ve had endometriosis surgery, hysterectomy, or any major surgery, tell me, how did you survive the fasting?! Drop your tips below because I need them 🙏

Just Trying to stay calm, trust God, and remind myself this is one step closer to answers + healing 💛

#endometriosis #endometriosissurgery #surgeryprep #minimallyinvasivesurgery #endometriosiswarrior

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