Happy New Year, friends!

It’s been a wild start in our house…hubby and I decided to do Dry January (again). More on that in a moment.

I also lost my voice (and my mind) when Michigan beat Alabama on New Year’s Day, for a chance to play in next Monday’s national championship game.And as I’ve done all season, I wore my dad’s favorite sweatshirt (he was an alum and I grew up 20 minutes from the University of Michigan). Not saying I’m superstitious…but, I’ll definitely be wearing it during next week’s game! #GoBlue 

But, what a difference a year can make. While this year started with a bang, last year started with a call from my sister saying our mom was in the hospital and we weren’t sure she was going to make it. 

I want to encourage you as you begin your 2024, whether it starts on a high or a low. That’s why this whole month, I’m getting really personal on my podcast, sharing intimate, vulnerable stories about the things I’m learning as a mom, entrepreneur, about relationships, etc. From failures and losses, these are quick downloads (3-5 minutes each!) from me to you each week in January. 

This week, I’m sharing the ONE thing I’m taking with me in 2024 — It’s something a friend of mine shared with me that has been life-changing and I think will be for you, too! 

So grateful for you and I’m expectant for your 2024, however it’s starting. One more thing…#GoBlue

Want to share some encouragement? Forward this to a friend!

FARIS FAVORITES

1. The Newest Item in my Skincare Lineup 

So, there’s lots to love about getting older. (The confidence, self-assuredness, ability to not care what people think about you, etc.) Among the things I don’t love: How my skin is sagging, particularly on my face and the dreaded jowl. You know I’m a sucker for weird devices and I found something on Amazon that’s actually been tightening my face naturally.The reviews are great and I can tell you, it’s working!!! But, like anything, you have to give it time and be consistent.  

2. My Go-To Appetizer 

If you’re going to be hosting friends for the College Football national championship game (or any get together), you MUST make my go-to appetizer: Buffalo Chicken Dip.Ingredients are as follows:

• 2.5 cans of chicken

• 2 blocks 8 ounce cream cheese

• 1.5 cups shredded cheddar

• 1 cup ranch

• 1 cup hot sauce (Texas Pete’s)

Dump in a Crockpot, cook 4 hours, stirring occasionally. No, it’s not healthy. But, you can use carrots or celery instead of chips. You’ll thank me later. It’s literally one of the only things I enjoy making. WARNING: Have TUMS nearby. 

3.  Dry January Challenge

Dry January…I hinted about it above. John and I are doing this for the second straight year. If you’re with us, give us a thumbs up HERE.What is it? It’s a commitment to stay “dry”, aka no drinking alcohol, in January. We’re doing it for a couple of reasons: to prove that we can do hard things and to enjoy better sleep.There is all kinds of research that alcohol disrupts your REM sleep, which is the restorative sleep we need, especially as “middle-aged people” (which my teen daughter so lovingly calls us). I’ll be talking about this more in an upcoming podcast, so stay tuned!

The Paula Faris Show

The One Thing I'm Taking Into This New Year!In this episode, I’m sharing what I’ve learned about the ups and downs of life and the most important advice anyone’s ever shared with me, plus why we should all take it into this new year! Listen Now>>

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If you're a working mom, make sure you're getting THE CARRY™ ALL, the newsletter by and for working moms! I founded CARRY™ in 2022, to create load-lessening content for working moms and to help carry their many burdens.Here's what you missed in last week's THE CARRY™ ALL:

1. Ways to ease back into work 

2. Finding a morning routine that works for you 

3. 2024's must-reads