What’s Worth It (Or Not)

Every week I share what’s been worth it to me — whether it’s a product I can’t stop talking about, a recipe that wowed a crowd, or even something that wasn’t worth it (because not everything is). Just real-life stuff I feel like putting out there. Sometimes the team chimes in too.

Recently I shared something on my Instagram stories... and WOW, the response blew me away.

Church Greeting Time. Y’all, I wasn’t sure if I should even say this out loud. At most of the churches we’ve visited, there’s this moment where you’re asked to turn and greet the people around you. Well, at a recent service, that turned into a 10-minute session of full-on small talk with strangers.😅 Everyone was super kind. That’s not the issue. It’s just... my introvert side was screaming. 😬

I posted thinking maybe a few people might relate… but the flood of DMs and replies said otherwise. Even a pastor’s wife messaged me saying they got rid of that exact greeting time in their church because so many people dreaded it.

Here are just a few of the MANY comments I received:

• “That’s funny… my husband dreads it too, even just the handshake.”

• “Oh my goodness, SAME. I feel you!”

• “I straight up go to the bathroom during that part so I can avoid it.”

• “Same here! Everyone’s so sweet, but that part always feels so awkward.”

• ”I’m an introvert too and this is the worst moment of church for me.”

It made me feel so much less alone. And I think sometimes we just need a little reminder that we’re not the only ones feeling awkward or overwhelmed in situations like that. 🤗

These Walmart patio deals are TOO good. You guys, I ordered these outdoor rocking chairs from Walmart and was honestly shocked by the quality. They totally give off West Elm vibes but for wayyyy less. Like, the real West Elm chairs are over $600 a piece and these are on sale right now for just $67 at Walmart! 🤯 They do require a little assembly, but it’s super minimal. And once they’re set up? GORGEOUS.

👉 Shop the chairs

I also grabbed the 3-piece Mainstays patio set for just $27 (!!!) and it might be the best deal I’ve scored all summer. What I love most is that it comes FULLY ASSEMBLED and folds up easily when not in use.

👉 Shop the 3-piece set

The Shawshank Redemption. I don’t think I’ve watched this movie since it came out in the ’90s... but I rewatched it the other night and oh my goodness, I can’t stop thinking about it. It hit me way harder this time. I was in full blown tears by the end. The friendship. The heartbreak. The hope. It’s so rare to find a movie that’s this powerful and beautifully told. I found myself rooting so hard for the characters.

It’s definitely not a “background noise” kind of movie, but if you’re in the mood for something deep and emotional… this one is so worth it. One of the greatest movies of all time, honestly. If it’s been a while or you’ve never seen it, bump it to the top of your list. ❤️💔😭

Copycat Chili’s Salsa Recipe. Okay, I had to include this one because it brings back all the memories. Back when my husband was in the Marine Corps and we lived in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Chili’s was our spot. We’d go out on date nights, devour those warm tortilla chips, dunk them in that salsa, and sip on Chili’s Presidente margaritas like we were livin’ large. 😆 We haven’t had a drink in over 8 years now, but I’m not gonna lie, margaritas are still one of the things I kinda miss.

But THE SALSA. Y’all. If you’re anything like me and constantly disappointed with store-bought salsas, please do yourself a favor and make this copycat version. It seriously SO good. I literally just dump everything into the blender, blend it, salt to taste, and boom… heaven in a bowl.

Copycat Chili’s Salsa Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 (14.5 oz) cans of diced tomatoes & green chilies

• 1 (28 oz) can of whole canned tomatoes (with juice)

• 4–10 teaspoons canned jalapeños (diced, not pickled — adjust to heat level)

• ¼ to 1/2 cup yellow onion (I just cut the onion in half and throw it in, I’m such a chef! 🤣)

• 1 tsp garlic salt

• 1 tsp cumin

• ½ tsp sugar

• ½ to 1 tsp salt (or more to taste)

Directions:

Toss everything into a blender and blend to desired consistency. Chill for a few hours to let the flavors come together (if you can wait that long). Serve with your favorite tortilla chips.

That’s a wrap on this week’s picks! Hope something made you smile, made you hungry, or maybe even made it to the top of your watchlist. Thanks for reading.  🫶

Love,

Collin