In most homes, the entryway is the first spot for clutter to build up because everything passes through this space. Shoes get kicked off by the wall, backpacks end up on the floor, mail and coats start piling up, and your keys are never where you need them. And honestly, it’s not because your family is messy. Most of the time it just means there isn’t a clear system for where those everyday items are supposed to go. When there’s no obvious place to drop them, they end up wherever there’s an open surface.

Over the years I’ve realized that one of the easiest ways to keep a home feeling calm is to stop the clutter before it ever spreads into the rest of the house. When the entryway works well, it kind of acts like a filter. Everything that comes in has a place to land right away. A simple entryway system does exactly that. It gives keys, bags, shoes, and mail a home the moment you walk through the door. Once those few things are handled, the rest of the house naturally stays cleaner with a lot less effort.

The good news is it doesn’t take anything complicated. Just a few small zones set up in a way that works with your everyday routine. Here’s the exact system I use…

1. The Drop Zone (for small items)

The drop zone is the first place things land when you walk in the door.

• keys
• wallet
• sunglasses
• Airpods
• lip balm

A small tray or basket makes a huge difference here. It creates a visual boundary so small items stay contained instead of spreading across surfaces.

Simple Drop Zone Ideas

• narrow console table
• wood or marble catch-all tray
• small woven basket
• decorative bowl

Tip

If you don’t have room for a console table, a floating shelf works just as well and keeps the footprint small.

2. Shoe Storage

Shoes are usually the number one reason an entryway feels messy. The key is making the storage system easier than kicking shoes off on the floor, and there are a few solutions that work especially well depending on the size of your space.

Slim Shoe Cabinets

These are one of my favorite solutions for small entryways because they keep shoes completely hidden while taking up very little depth. Perfect for narrow hallways or small foyers.

Storage Benches

A bench with cubbies or hidden storage makes it easy to sit down and take shoes off while keeping everything contained.

Storage Trunks

This is great option if you want to completely hide shoes while keeping the entryway looking clean and collected. They work especially well in open spaces since they feel more like a decorative piece than traditional storage.

Large Baskets

For a more casual system, large woven baskets work beautifully. Each family member can have their own basket for everyday shoes.

Tip

Try to limit this area to daily shoes only. Rotating seasonal shoes elsewhere helps prevent overflow.

3. Hooks for Bags, Coats, and Everyday Grab-and-Go Items

A simple wall hook system is one of the best ways to stop clutter from spreading and creates easy access and organization for the things you use every day.

What to Hang Here

• coats
• purses
• backpacks
• hats
• dog leashes

Tip

If you have kids, hang hooks low enough for them to reach so they can manage their own backpacks and coats.

4. A Simple Mail Sorting System

Mail has a way of slowly taking over the kitchen counter if it doesn’t have a designated place. Instead of letting it pile up, create a small sorting system right in the entryway.

A simple setup might include:

• incoming mail
• bills or items that need attention
• important papers to file

Tip

Toss junk mail immediately. It’s a small habit that prevents stacks from forming.

5. Baskets for Flexible Storage

Baskets are one of the easiest ways to keep an entryway looking tidy without creating a complicated system. They work well for the items that don’t necessarily need daily access but still belong near the door.

Things That Work Well in Entryway Baskets

• hats and gloves
• scarves
• sports gear
• reusable grocery bags
• lint rollers
• compact umbrellas
• dog supplies
• extra shoes

Tip

Try to keep one category per basket so they don’t turn into a catch-all junk pile.

Small Upgrades That Make an Entryway Work Better

Once the main zones are in place, a few small details can make the space feel even more functional and welcoming.

A Mirror

A mirror near the door helps reflect light and gives you a quick check before heading out.

Good Lighting

A small table lamp or wall sconce can make the entryway feel warm and inviting in the evening. Rechargeable lamps are great if there’s no outlet nearby.

An Umbrella Stand

If you live somewhere with rainy seasons, an umbrella stand keeps wet umbrellas from dripping across the floor.

A Boot Tray

During muddy, rainy, or snowy seasons, a boot tray gives wet shoes a designated place to land and protects your floors from dirt and water.

A Bench

A simple bench creates a comfortable spot to sit while putting on or taking off shoes, which makes the whole entryway feel more practical and welcoming.

The 1-Minute Entryway Reset

Even the best systems need a quick daily reset. At the end of the day, take a minute to:

• return keys to the tray
• sort the mail
• put shoes back in storage
• hang coats and bags

It’s a tiny habit that keeps the entryway from slowly becoming cluttered again.

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The post My Simple Entryway System That Stops Clutter at the Door appeared first on Love Grows Wild.

Over the last few years, I’ve learned the hard way that you can eat all the “right” foods and still feel off. I was doing more fiber, more plants, more supplements, more everything, yet dealing with lingering digestion issues, inflammation, and that constant feeling that my system just wasn’t keeping up. One thing that finally helped wasn’t another extreme change, but a simple, supportive morning habit built around something called golden honey.

WHAT IS GOLDEN HONEY?

Golden honey (sometimes called golden fire honey) is a mixture of raw honey and warming spices like turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. It’s been used for centuries across different cultures as a daily tonic to gently support the body’s natural healing processes, especially immune response, digestion, and inflammation regulation.

I mix mine in a small mason jar, keep it at room temperature, and add one teaspoon to warm lemon water each morning. Because raw honey is naturally antimicrobial, golden honey can be safely stored at room temperature in a sealed jar for several weeks.

THE INGREDIENTS

This isn’t a miracle cure, but it is a powerful daily support to help your body do what it’s designed to do.

Raw honey acts as both a natural antimicrobial and a carrier for the spices. It helps soothe the digestive tract and allows the active compounds in the spices to absorb more effectively.

Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound well known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It supports joint health, gut health, and immune response.

Ginger stimulates digestion, supports gut motility, and helps reduce bloating and discomfort. It’s especially helpful for sluggish digestion, nausea, or that heavy feeling after meals.

Cinnamon supports blood sugar balance and has antimicrobial properties that can benefit both gut and immune health.

Black pepper plays an important role by increasing the bioavailability of curcumin from turmeric, meaning your body absorbs more and can actually use it.

Sea salt provides trace minerals and supports proper hydration and nerve signaling, which are often overlooked in digestion.

Warm water + lemon helps stimulate digestion, bile flow, and support the body’s natural elimination process first thing in the morning. It signals to your digestive system that it’s time to get moving.

Together, these ingredients gently warm the body, stimulate digestive enzymes, calm inflammation, and give your immune system a daily boost.

WHAT GOLDEN HONEY DOES FOR DIGESTION

Digestion works best when the body is warm, hydrated, and calm. When golden honey is taken in warm water with lemon, especially first thing in the morning, it can help:

• Wake up the digestive system
• Encourage regular, comfortable elimination
• Reduce bloating and sluggishness
• Support liver and bile flow

This was a big shift for me. I realized I was adding more fiber and “healthy” foods without first making sure my system was ready to process them.

WHAT GOLDEN HONEY DOES FOR IMMUNITY + INFLAMMATION

Golden honey has long been used during cold and flu season for good reason. The spices used are naturally antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory. Using it daily can help:

• Support immune response
• Reduce low-grade inflammation
• Ease joint soreness and body aches
• Support recovery during times of stress

I’ve personally noticed less overall puffiness and soreness, and I’ve been able to fight off seasonal germs more effectively since making this part of my routine.

WHO THIS MORNING DRINK IS FOR

Golden honey is a great option if you:

• Struggle with digestion, bloating, or irregularity
• Deal with chronic inflammation or joint discomfort
• Get sick easily during winter months
• Want immune support without supplements
• Prefer simple, food-based wellness habits

If you are pregnant, managing a medical condition, or taking medication, it’s always wise to check with your healthcare provider before starting a new herbal routine. If you have a very sensitive stomach, active acid reflux, or gallbladder issues, start with a smaller amount or try it without lemon to see how your body responds.

HOW TO USE GOLDEN HONEY DAILY

Take 1 teaspoon mixed into warm (not boiling) water with fresh lemon juice first thing in the morning, before coffee or breakfast. Consistency matters more than quantity here. This is meant to be a gentle daily ritual, not something you overdo.

Golden Honey Morning Drink

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A simple daily tonic for digestion, immunity, and inflammation support

• Author: Liz Fourez

Ingredients

FOR THE GOLDEN HONEY:

1/2 cup raw honey

1 1/2 tsp ground turmeric

1/2 tsp ground ginger

1/2 tsp ground Ceylon cinnamon

1/8 tsp ground black pepper

1/8 tsp sea salt

FOR THE MORNING DRINK:

1 tsp golden honey

1 cup warm filtered water

1–2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Add the raw honey to a small bowl or mason jar. Sprinkle in the turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, and sea salt. Stir well until the spices are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Seal and store at room temperature.

Add 1 teaspoon of golden honey to 1 cup warm (not hot) water. Squeeze in 1–2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice. Stir and sip slowly, ideally first thing in the morning.

Notes

Important: use warm, not boiling water to preserve the beneficial properties of raw honey.

Why use raw honey? Raw honey retains natural enzymes, antioxidants, and antimicrobial compounds that support gut and immune health, which are largely destroyed by heat processing and filtration in regular honey.

Black pepper is essential for improving absorption of turmeric’s active compounds.

Ceylon cinnamon is lower in coumarin than cassia cinnamon, making it safer for regular use while still offering blood sugar–balancing and anti-inflammatory benefits.

This drink works best when enjoyed consistently as part of a gentle morning routine.

This recipe is meant to support overall wellness and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have medical concerns or are taking medication.

Golden honey isn’t about fixing your body. It’s about supporting it. For me, it became a reminder that healing doesn’t always come from adding more supplements, stricter rules, or bigger changes. Sometimes it comes from slowing down and giving your body what it needs to function well in the first place.

This five-minute morning ritual has helped me feel more grounded, less inflamed, and more in tune with my body’s rhythms. It’s simple, inexpensive, and easy to return to when life feels busy or off track. If you’re looking for a gentle place to start improving your health, this is one of the easiest habits I’ve found that actually makes a difference.

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When it comes to game day, I’ve learned that less really is more. You don’t need an endless spread or complicated recipes to make it feel special — just a handful of crowd-pleasing recipes that are easy to prep, easy to serve, and taste amazing. This roundup is my go-to list of game day recipes that always disappear fast, from hearty mains to easy sides and desserts you can prep ahead. These are the only game day recipes you need when you want to keep things low-stress but still feel proud of what you’re serving.

Guacamole

Bacon Cheddar Cheese Ball
Lightened Up Puppy Chow

Slow Cooker BarbecueChicken
Lightened Up Spinach Dip

Nutella Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies
Smoked Mozzarella Dip

Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwiches
Catalina Dorito Taco Salad

Perfect Pasta Salad
Apple Pie Bars

Ranch Bread
Crab Dip

Monster Cookies
Broccoli Coleslaw

Chili Cheese Dip
Coconut Shrimp

Ranch Pinwheels
White Chocolate Pecan Caramel Corn

Whether you’re feeding a full house or just a few people on the couch, these are the recipes I come back to again and again for game day. They’re easy to prep, easy to serve, and always a hit. Save this list for future gatherings when you want good food, good company, and a menu that doesn’t leave you stuck in the kitchen all night — that’s the real win.

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If you’ve thought about making your home a little healthier but have no idea where to start, you’re not alone. I’ve learned that a few intentional swaps can make a huge difference in our daily exposure to chemicals, especially in the kitchen where we cook, eat, and store food every single day. You don’t have to replace everything you own or spend a fortune to improve your health in a meaningful way. Here are four non-toxic kitchen swaps I started with and the ones I’d recommend first to upgrade your home’s health without feeling overwhelmed.

1. Swap Non-Stick Cookware

WHAT I USE: Caraway Ceramic Coated Cookware

If you only make one change in your kitchen, this is the one I’d start with.

Traditional non-stick cookware is often made with PFAS (sometimes called “forever chemicals”), which can break down over time, especially when exposed to high heat or scratches. That breakdown can transfer to your food and has been linked to hormone disruption and other long-term health concerns. Once I understood that, continuing to cook with my old, worn non-stick pans just didn’t sit right with me.

I switched to ceramic-coated cookware, specifically Caraway brand, and I’ve been really happy with it. Food cooks evenly, nothing sticks, and cleanup is genuinely easy. I use the mini fry pan almost daily for eggs, and their saute pan is the perfect size for dinners. They perform better than any non-stick pan I’ve owned, without the chemical concerns, and bonus – they look beautiful in my kitchen too.

They’re hand wash only, but I’ve never put cookware in the dishwasher anyway, so that wasn’t a drawback for me. If you’re starting from scratch, the 12- or 16-piece cookware set can save money and comes with storage that keeps everything organized. Or you can build your collection slowly like I did, adding one piece at a time for birthdays or holidays.

One thing worth noting is that ceramic-coated pans are best used over low to medium heat, which honestly covers the majority of everyday cooking. But if I’m doing a high-heat sear on a steak or something similar, I’ll reach for a stainless steel pan instead.

Other non-toxic alternatives worth considering:

• Stainless steel for high-heat cooking and searing
• Enameled cast iron for slow cooking and braising
• GreenPan for a more affordable ceramic option

2. Swap Plastic Food Storage

WHAT I USE: Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids

This was one of the most eye-opening lessons for me.

I grew up in the era of Tupperware and never thought twice about what I was storing my food in until I learned that heating food in plastic containers can cause chemicals to leach into your meals, especially when microwaving or reheating leftovers. This swap alone dramatically reduced my daily exposure without changing how I eat or cook.

I now use glass food storage containers, especially for meal prep. The set I have includes two different sizes, which makes it easy to store everything from soups to leftovers to prepped proteins. They stack neatly, seal well, and are safe for the microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher (the lids just can’t go in the microwave or oven).

3. Swap Plastic Cutting Boards

WHAT I USE: Wood Fiber Composite Cutting Board

This was a kitchen item I hadn’t even considered until I learned that tiny particles from plastic cutting boards can end up in your food.

I wanted to find an alternative that felt just as low maintenance but without the risk of consuming microplastics. Traditional wood boards require upkeep, and I personally don’t love using them for raw meat. Wood fiber composite ended up being the perfect middle ground.

The board I use is non-porous, dishwasher safe, and incredibly sturdy. I love that it has a groove around the edge to catch liquids and rubber feet that keep it from sliding while chopping. It cleans easily, doesn’t hold odors, and feels solid and high quality.

4. Swap Plastic Cooking Utensils

WHAT I USE: Silicone Cooking Utensils

This was the least expensive swap I made and one I wish I’d done sooner.

Plastic utensils can break down when exposed to heat, which means they can leach chemicals directly into your food while you’re cooking. Silicone is a much safer option, especially when it’s high-quality and heat resistant.

The silicone utensil set I use is surprisingly sturdy and holds up better than many plastic tools I’ve owned. Food doesn’t stick as easily, they’re easy to clean, and everything is dishwasher safe. The set includes all the basics, and they’re safe for any type of cookware, including ceramic and stainless steel.

Making your kitchen safer doesn’t require perfection or a total overhaul. A few simple changes in the items you use most can significantly reduce chemical exposure and bring a little more peace of mind into your home.

If you’ve been wanting to start but feel overwhelmed, I hope this guide is helpful. These four swaps are exactly where I’d start if I had to do it all over again.

I’ll link everything I use below, along with a few alternative options, so you can choose what works best for your home and your budget.

COOKWARE:

Caraway Ceramic Coated Cookware (what I use)
GreenPan Ceramic Coated Cookware (more affordable)

Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel (more affordable)
All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel (higher end)

Lodge Enameled Cast Iron (more affordable)
Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron (higher end)

FOOD STORAGE:

MCIRCO Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids (what I use)
Rubbermaid Glass Food Storage Containers with Lids (higher end)

CUTTING BOARDS:

Elihome Composite Cutting Board (what I use)
Epicurean Composite Cutting Board (similar)
John Boos Maple Cutting Board (wood alternative)

COOKING UTENSILS:

Silicone Cooking Utensils (what I use)
Di Oro Silicone Utensils (higher end)
Woodenhouse Teak Wood Utensils (wood alternative)

As always, I sincerely appreciate you shopping through the links I share, which allows me to make a small commission from your purchase while your purchase price remains the same. When you use my affiliate links, I’m better able to create content for this blog as well as support my family, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting what I do!

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Every year I try to gather the kind of gifts that feel meaningful, useful, and beautiful — the things you genuinely look forward to giving and getting. From cozy home essentials to wellness upgrades and tried-and-true beauty favorites, this guide has a little something for everyone… even if “everyone” includes you.

1. 12-Piece Caraway Ceramic Cookware Set (use code LIZ for a discount!) – Non-toxic, gorgeous, and ridiculously easy to clean. This set heats evenly and looks beautiful sitting on your stove. I use the sauté pan daily!
2. Nespresso Vertuo Coffee and Espresso Maker – Makes café-level coffee at home with zero fuss. If you want lattes, espresso, and iced coffee without leaving the house, this is the machine.
3. Quince Bamboo Sheet Set – These are buttery soft, breathable, and naturally temperature-regulating — perfect if you run hot at night or want cleaner, more natural bedding.
   • this bamboo sheet set on Amazon is about half the price and what I have on my bed!
4. Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Throw Blanket – The softest, coziest blanket you’ll ever touch. It’s the one you reach for every night and never want to share.
5. Kitsch Satin Heatless Curling Set – Gives you bouncy, soft curls overnight without heat damage. Great for anyone who wants pretty hair with absolutely no effort in the morning.
6. Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle – A leakproof water bottle you’ll actually carry everywhere. The built-in straw + chug spout makes it weirdly fun to drink more water. I confidently throw mine in my gym bag with zero worry about spills!
7. Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask – Deeply hydrates and smooths dry lips while you sleep. You wake up with soft, cushiony lips every single morning. I literally cannot go to bed without this now!
8. Shark SpeedStyle Pro Flex Hair Dryer – A faster, smarter blow dryer that smooths and styles without frying your hair. A quieter, easier everyday hair tool that’s 100% worth the hype.
9. Paula’s Choice Exfoliation Kit – A powerhouse duo that clears pores, softens texture, and brightens skin without irritation. Great for anyone who wants simple, effective skincare. I’ve used this brand for 5+ years now!
10. Hatch Restore 3 Alarm Clock – A sunrise alarm, sound machine, and sleep routine coach in one. Helps you fall asleep easier and wake up gentler — no more cortisol-spiking phone alarms.
11. Project Cloud Suede Ankle Boots – Soft, warm, lightweight, and look just like the designer pair for way less. They’re the grab-and-go winter boot you’ll wear nonstop.
    • or a pair of UGG Mini Boots if you want the real thing!
12. Morris & Co. Blue Sky Weekly Planner – A pretty, practical planner that keeps your whole life organized. Roomy weekly spreads and monthly overviews make it easy to stay on top of everything.
13. Aerie OFFLINE Real Me Crossover Flare Leggings – Soft, stretchy, and super flattering with that V-waist everyone loves. They feel like pajamas but look like real pants — a win in my book.
14. Apple AirPods Pro 3 – Crisp sound, great noise cancellation, and the comfiest fit. Perfect for workouts, walks, or tuning out the world while you focus.
15. H&M Double-Breasted Pea Coat – A classic, polished winter coat that looks far more expensive than it is. Instantly elevates any outfit.
    • linking more winter coat options here in case this one sells out!
16. Casaluna Waffle Bath Robe – Soft, plush, and spa-like without the price tag. Perfect for slow mornings, nighttime routines, or cozying up after a shower.
    • I’ve had a similar version from Parachute for years now that feels SO lux!
17. Oura Ring 4 – Tracks sleep, recovery, and stress better than anything else, but without a bulky smartwatch. A wellness tool you’ll actually want to wear.
18. HigherDOSE On-The-Go Infrared PEMF Mat – Helps relax tight muscles, calm your nervous system, and melt stress in minutes. Easy to travel with or use at home after a long day.
19. Dearfoams Fireside Sydney Shearling Slippers – Warm, cushy, and made with real shearling. The kind of slippers you actually look forward to sliding into every morning.
20. Fellow Stagg EKG Pro Electric Kettle – A designer-looking kettle that heats water fast and precisely. Makes tea, pour-overs, and slow mornings feel extra special.
    • the ivory/maple kettle (above) is only available a few places, but you can find the matte black/maple kettle on Amazon!
21. Cuisinart Classic 15-Piece Knife Block Set – A complete, affordable knife set that actually cuts well. Great for new cooks, first apartments, or anyone upgrading from dull knives. I’ve used mine daily for almost 4 years!
    • you can find different knife block finishes here!
22. Vitruvi Stone Essential Oil Diffuser – Beautiful enough to live on your counter and powerful enough to scent the whole room. Makes your home feel instantly calmer.
23. WeGym Soft Kettlebells – All the benefits of kettlebell workouts with a softer, safer design. Great for beginners, home workouts, or small spaces.
24. Salt & Stone Body Mist – A clean fragrance that feels cozy and expensive in the best way, without any harsh chemicals. Soft enough for daily wear and guaranteed to earn you compliments.
25. Glass Meal Prep Containers – These glass containers are durable, leakproof, and stack beautifully — the easiest way to meal prep or store leftovers without the plastic hassle.

click the link below to download:

FREE PRINTABLE CHRISTMAS WISH LIST

MORE GIFT GUIDES

As always, I sincerely appreciate you shopping through the links I share, which allows me to make a small commission from your purchase while your purchase price remains the same. When you use my affiliate links, I’m better able to create content for this blog as well as support my family, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for supporting what I do!

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