Things I've been loving lately (#3 | January 2026)

Introduction

January has been full of fresh starts and little cozy moments that have made the winter days a little brighter. From quiet mornings with coffee to random things that sparked joy, I’ve been noticing the small pleasures that make this month special. So, just like last month, I’m rounding up all the things I’ve been loving lately, whether it’s a show, a website, a book, or just a feeling that’s been warming up these cold days.

Things I've been loving

Palm Royale Season 2

Last year I watched Palm Royale season 1 and I loved it. I love how it's set in the late 60s and early 70s and its mystery surrounding the Palm Royale. I am currently only a few episodes into the second season, but I had been anticipating the arrival of a new season!

StudyTube

StudentTube helps students use YouTube in a more intentional way by showing only educational and relevant videos based on what you search. It keeps the helpful side of YouTube while removing most of the distractions that usually lead to endless scrolling. As a student who is easily distracted, this website helps me with fighting these distractions.

Depop

A couple days ago I order my first item from Depop. I was looking for a new case for my phone and I found the cutest one on Wildflower. However, I don't want to pay $35 on a phone cases (not including shipping). Therefore, I searched on Depop and found one for 65% off the total price! Not only is Depop great because you can buy things for cheaper but it also helps reduce waste.

Books with takes on modern love

Currently I'm reading two books that are a take on modern love, Normal People by Sally Rooney and How to Fall in Love with Anyone by Mandy Len Catron. Romance has always intruiged me and now, especially, I have been interested in how modern society views love and romance. These two books have helped me understand something that used to be so complicated to me.

Aesthetic of the month

This month, I’ve been loving soft neutrals and warm layers. Oversized sweaters, warm drinks, journaling by a window, and mornings that start slow.

Finding the "Glimmers" in a Cold Month

January is usually just a lot of pressure to change everything about yourself, but I’ve been leaning into the opposite. I’ve been looking for "glimmers." They’re basically the tiny things in your day that make you feel safe or just a little bit happier, which is the exact energy I need right now. Watching Palm Royale or finding a massive discount on Depop isn't just about the stuff. It’s about how those things make me feel. When I spend a morning journaling by the window or wearing a ridiculously oversized sweater, I’m not just doing it for the aesthetic (though I do love the aesthetic). I’m doing it because it actually helps me stay grounded when the days are short and gray. Using "StudyTube" to block out the noise of the internet is another part of that. It’s a way to protect my focus so I don’t end up scrolling for three hours and feeling worse. I’ve realized that romanticizing these small, quiet moments is the best way to get through winter without feeling totally burnt out.

Wrap-Up / Conclusion

Altogether, these things have made January feel like a quiet breath of fresh air in the middle of winter. I’m curious to see what February brings! Hope you found something new to love too. See you next month for more things that make life a little prettier.