Hi there! I’m McKenzie, the lady that responds to all of your sweet Emily Ley emails! It’s so nice to finally pop in and introduce myself to ya’ll! I wear a lot of hats these days- wife, friend, letterer, shop assistant here at EL, student, and I also run my own little shop full of hand-lettered goodies. My sweet husband and I are Amelia Island natives but are currently living here in Tampa trying to navigate what I call the “big city”. We said “I do” last May and I sobbed like a baby and could barely get my vows out (if you know me- you’re not shocked). I love a well placed monogram, Jesus talks with friends, decorating our home, books (excluding textbooks), extra large glasses of sweet tea, attempting to cook, and anything creative!
How do you take care of yourself so that you’re physically and mentally prepared to be your best self for others?
For starters- I pray. I pray a LOT. I ask others to pray for me as well and I give my burdens to God. I also take a lot of “me” time. I make it a priority to rest. That may sound silly but I am a bit of a go-getter and have a difficult time doing unproductive things, so rest must be scheduled. Pearce and I have started using essential oils, making healthier food choices, and incorporating exercise into our time together so that we physically feel great!
In your house, how do the mundane parts of life get done?
First of all, if it’s not in my planner, it doesn’t get done. I write EVERYTHING down and it helps me stay focused on my priorities for the day. I’ve tried my best not to abuse the to-do list column in my planner by adding things in just because there’s a free line. I write down what I truly believe I can get done and I make that happen. Working from home has made it a bit easier for me to get things done around the house. I try to wake up and get chores and errands done before I start my work day so that I won’t be distracted by huge piles of laundry or floating dust bunnies. I’ve also found that getting my meal planning and grocery shopping done during the weekend helps our busy weeknights run much smoother. I pack my grocery list in my Lilly Pulitzer market tote (to make the event a bit more colorful) and make a quick trip to Aldi, Trader Joes, or Publix.
What is one tradition or routine that’s really important to you? And why?
Jesus time & Date nights! Grabbing a cup of coffee and digging into the word is the best daily routine a gal can have! Date nights have also become pretty important here in the Fussell house with our busy schedules. We love trying new restaurants and attempting to find good movies on Netflix! We used to play monopoly but that got a little too competitive!
Your PICK SIX: What 6 products can you absolutely not live without?
Simplified Journal: This is one of my all time favorite products. Each night before I go to sleep I try to write down everything on my mind and get it off my chest. This nightly “brain dump” helps me clear my head so I can sleep better. A little lavender oil on my feet and a few minutes spent writing in my journal seems to be the best sleep aid.
Crockpots: I’m all about easy meals that taste delicious. We have crockpot dinners as much as possible around here. I even purchased a mini travel sized crockpot for Pearce to take to work with him. It’s the coolest little gadget and he’s told me everyday after work how yummy his food was (new wives love to hear that).
Longchamp Bag: I’ve had this bag for years but just can’t seem to part ways with it. It’s huge! I fit my macbook, my planner, my schoolbooks, a thousand pens, 2 chargers, a bulky wallet, my water bottle and a trillion other “necessities” in there. When I’m not using the bag it folds up into a tiny square that can easily fit in a small drawer which is perfect for apartment living.
NutriBullet: This bad boy was one of my favorite wedding gifts and we didn’t even register for it. I make delicious fruit smoothies with doTERRA Terra Greens supplement mix and get all of my veggies for the day! It’s so quick and easy to clean! I’ve got my routine down to a science now and I can both make my smoothie and clean up my blender in under 3 minutes!
Jesus Calling Devotional CD: I’ve read through the Jesus Calling devotionals by Sarah Young a few times now and they’re always so relevant and encouraging. I found a CD version of the devotional awhile back and LOVE listening to it in my car each day.
Glass Water Bottles: I’m a big believer in essential oils. For the oils to work properly they can’t be mixed in plastic water bottles- so we buy glass. My favorites are lemon and peppermint water!
Anything else you think our readers would love to know? Any additional tips or systems that help you keep it all together?
One of my favorite quotes on simplicity is this one from Hans Hoffman: “The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak.” Through the process of simplifying I’ve been able to find so much more joy in my days and truly focus on what matters to me!
Follow along with McKenzie:
Instagram: @mckenziefussell
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The Simplicity Series features busy gals, in different stages of life, making what matters happen and tips and tricks they’ve found to be helpful. Simplicity is about building margin into your life and spending time on and with that which fuels your heart. While we love to share products and services that help us day to day, but simplicity is about HEART and intentionally choosing the thing that matters most (your TREASURE) more than anything money can buy. We wear many hats and we know you do too, so we’d love to hear your thoughts as well! For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Luke 12:34
