Happy Wednesday! I hope you are having a great week, we made it halfway to the weekend!
I am celebrating my blog anniversary this month.
I started to create this little corner on the internet seven years ago as I was finishing up my first year of college. I had just gone through one of the biggest years of growth and change. I moved out of my home, met all new people and went through all the growing pains of being a freshman in college. I started this blog as a creative hobby and outlet and it has grown so much since I wrote my first post.
I’ve shared a lot about myself through my blog, from homesickness, to landing my dream job, and staying true to myself.
So many fashion posts
I’ve also been able to share my favorite things; from beauty products, to fashion trends, travel, books and entertainment.
A few books from my collection at home.
Every year, I like to look back and see what posts stood out to me the most. This year, the biggest moments come in the form of 24 hour day trips, starting new hobbies in the form of running, playing piano and growing a garden, and being more sure of myself.
The fruits of my labor
Your 20s can be a challenging time of figuring out your career, being an adult, staying in touch with friends, being involved with family, navigating a relationship and discovering yourself. I really feel like I have found who I am and how I want to live my life over the past year.
I always say I will blog until it doesn’t bring me joy, but every day I still get excited about writing what I’m feeling and sharing my life with you all. I keep a running list of topics to write about, or favorite things to share, or even stories that I hope can help others who may feel how I feel.
I always learn so much from other bloggers and women and they inspire me every day and make my day a bit brighter.
I hope I can do that for at least one person. Whether this is the first post of mine you are reading or you have read over 500 of them, thank you for being here and reading what’s on my mind and heart. I so appreciate every read, follow, and comment.
Thank you for being on this journey with me and I can’t wait to see what the next year holds. Cheers to seven years!!!!
Hello All! Happy Friday! I hope you had a great week and are ready for the weekend. I can’t believe how fast this month is going by. I have been soaking up this month the best I can with sunshine, walks, and even some ice cream dates.
Perfect day for a walk this week…blue skies and not a cloud in sight
As we gear up for another weekend, I have a fun list of favorites for you as we wrap up this week. Here’s what’s on my radar this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea for another roundup of Friday Favorites.
My Love: Six Love Stories of True Love– I actually heard about this mini-series from Emily Ley’s Sunday Scroll on Substack. If you haven’t checked out her substack, you should, she posts a few times a week about different topics, current events, or what’s on her mind. Back to the topic at hand, this miniseries on Netflix follows six different couples all around the world and tells their love stories. These are all your normal couples, and they share their day-to-day lives and you get to see their love story told through their eyes. This is a warm and fuzzy, feel-good show. No drama, no overthinking-just good, wholesome love.
New Top– I got this new top from Marshall’s a few weeks ago and I have been loving it. It’s by Calvin Klein and I am always a fan of the style, colors, and quality of clothes. This silky, Cinderella-blue, top is perfect for the spring and summer months. I plan on wearing it to work with white or blue dress pants, but it can also be worn with jeans if you want to dress up a look. The ruffles and buttons and details are what caught my attention and they are some of my favorite parts of the top. I can’t wait to start wearing it more in the next few months.
Lessons in Chemistry- This may be one of my favorite books of the year. I have heard about it for several months, but just got around to reading it. Lessons in Chemistry is all about a chemist who hosts a cooking show in the 1960’s. I loved the combination of science and cooking and how they were intertwined throughout the book. The romance between Calvin and Elizabeth made my heart soar, but my favorite part was the importance of women working in a male dominated field in the 1960’s. It was made into a series on Apple TV that I watched as well and really enjoyed the comparison of the two.
My Miniature Life Account- I recently got sucked into silly/fun accounts on social media. I typically just use social media to keep up with family and friends, but every so often I find a fun account that brings me joy. The account, My Miniature Life account features every day, mundane tasks but mini. I give the creator major props for creativity and uniqueness. I try to limit my time on social media, but when a 30 second video makes you smile, it’s worth it.
Trying New Pizzas– We always do Pizza Fridays in my house and it’s one of my favorite traditions. We typically order from the same place, but we have been trying new local places around town. Some have been hits and others have been misses. I prefer a thin crust as opposed to a thicker crust, but it’s been fun to try new spots and see what places we want to try again.
That’s a look into what I’ve been loving. Tell me, what’s something that’s caught your attention this past week? Let me know in the comments below! Happy Friday!
Happy May! I hope you are having a great kickoff to your month. May is one of my favorite months of the year! Not only is it my birthday month, but I love the transition of spring to summer. I love the fresh flowers, the warm summer-like days and the summer foods and drinks and treats. May can also be a busy time of year as the school season is wrapping up and it can be stressful for many parents and children. In those stressful moments, I think it’s important to take time for yourself during those busy times.
Today’s post is all about ways to decompress and de-stress during the hectic moments of life. I’ve compiled some practical ways that work for me to unwind and de-stress, maybe you will find some work for you or your have your own ways to cope with the busy parts of life.
Whenever I get overwhelmed with work or personal stress, I remind myself to breathe. Taking a few minutes to catch my center myself always puts things in perspective for me. After a few moments of deep breathing, I try to pinpoint my stress and go about finding a solution, that often comes in the form of writing a brain dump of things that have to get done, things that’s stressing me out or worries that I have. When I put everything down on paper, it doesn’t seem as daunting.
After a few moments of deep breathing, putting things in perspective and writing down a to-do list, I find my stress levels decreasing almost immediately. It shows that a few minutes can make all the difference.
A brain dump always soothes my mind and puts my stress in perspective
The second part of this post is all about ways to unwind and de-stress. These are different practices that have worked for me and done wonders to lower my stress levels. You may have other ways to destress, but whatever way you unwind, make sure you take the time to put yourself first when life can get to be too much to handle.
Here’s some ways that I like to relax that work for me and you might find these practices work well for you.
Reading-This is one of my favorite ways to decompress. I love to start or end my day by reading. You can truly escape the world and your stressors for a few minutes with a good book. Reading is one of my favorite hobbies and it brings me joy every day. I like to start my day with some me-time, before the day gets underway and reading is one of the ways I set some time aside for myself. Whether it’s reading several chapters or a few pages, I incorporate it every day.
A great way to unwind or escape.
Prayer-This is always an easy way to calm and center myself, whether it’s a big or little issue that’s bothering me, talking to God always helps puts my fears at ease. I typically pray at the beginning and end of every day, but have found myself talking to God more in the car or when I am alone and experiencing downtime. I try to place all my stressors and burdens in his hands, while also remembering to thank him for all his blessings.
Journaling- This is another common practice that I have been doing daily since I went to college. Journaling helps me focus on the positive and finding the good in every day. It also helps me put things in perspective, the little stressors don’t seem as big in the grand scheme of things when you put things down on paper. I also always try to include what I’m grateful for every day. The good always tends to outweigh the bad.
Journaling is my favorite morning and evening activity
Going for a Walk- Whenever I am stressed, sometimes taking a walk right away immediately helps me clear my mind. Fresh air and getting in some steps in relieves my stress. Even if it’s just for five minutes, some fresh air can do wonders, especially if you are inside all day. After a long day in the office, there is truly nothing better than taking my dogs out for a walk. Whether it’s chilly or hot, you switch up your layers to enjoy your walk. I love to go on walks with friends or family, but going on a walk by myself is just as therapeutic too. I even love to take a walk and make phone calls to family and friends to catch up and relax.
A walk does wonders for the soul
Coloring- This was a hobby I loved as a child and picked it up as an adult to de-stress. Coloring soothes and relaxes me especially after a busy day. I enjoy coloring when I’m watching tv or relaxing with family. This practice is mindless and soothing and it’s a great way to focus on a task and get creative too.
Coloring is a great way to unwind
Turn on a comfort show– If you are looking for something mindless to do to truly unwind, turning on a comfort show or something mindless always helps push my worries away. As I’m typing this post, I have Grey’s Anatomy on in the background. I love the relaxation it provides and how you can chose any episode and pick up right where you left off.
Those are some practices that have helped me unwind and decompress after a long or stressful day. Life can get busy, stressful or overwhelming, and it’s important that in busyness, we take time for ourselves. As the old saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty well.
I hope this encourages you to take time for yourself and put things in perspective in the busy and slow seasons of life.
What are your favorite ways to decompress and take time for yourself? Let me know in the comments below!
Happy Friday! We made it through the first week of April. I hope you had a smooth and successful week and are ready for the first weekend of the month. The month of March was a mixed bag of weird weather, we had some really nice and sunny days in the 60s, and other days in the 30s and snow. Here’s hoping this next month brings more consistent temperatures-especially spring-like weather.
As always, I am linking up with Erika and Andrea for another roundup of Friday Favorites. I’ve been doing some spring shopping, so I’ll be spreading out my favorite finds over the next few weeks, so you aren’t bombarded with them in one post. Let’s jump into some of my favorite things today!
Red pants– I finally made a trip to Old Navy to see if they had any fun spring finds. After lots of trying on clothes, I only left with a few items. But I did manage to snag these red pants that were on clearance. WIN! I tend to lean more towards a straight pant leg as opposed to a full or tight pant leg, especially in the office, but I really loved how these looked. These would be great for work or a business-casual setting. Even though they are a bold color, you can go with a simple color for a the top (like a black, blue, or cream) or with a busier top to balance them out. I’m looking forward to adding these to my rotation over the next few months.
Everything Bagel Seasoning– I don’t have a Trader Joe’s near me, but whenever I am close to one, I always like to pop in to see what they have and try some unique foods and snacks. I always stock up on Everything Bagel seasoning. It is one of my favorite blends of seasonings and flavors. I add it to my chicken, pasta, toast, and eggs, etc. it adds just enough flavoring to spice up a meal without overpowering the dish. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a new bottle.
Bridgerton and Bath and Body Works– Did you see the new collaboration between Bath and Body Works and Bridgerton? These are two of my favorite things and I couldn’t be more happier to see a collaboration between them. I love all the scents that come with Bath and Body Works and now knowing candles, lotions, wall flowers and soaps were inspired by Bridgerton’s characters, places, and themes. I may have to buy some and put them away for when I need re-stock.
Cabrini– My family and I went to see Cabrini right before Easter and really enjoyed it. It tells the story of Saint Francis Xavier Cabrini and the work she did here in America with the poor and orphans. The movie talks about the challenges she faced, the obstacles she overcame and the lives she touched. I had learned about her growing up, but it was fascinating to see her ministry depicted in a full-length film. It was a long movie, so if you plan on seeing it, budget in time to watch. Definitely worth the watch, but you don’t have to go to the theaters to enjoy it.
The Sweeney Sisters–The Sweeney Sisters was the second book that I’ve read by Lian Dolan. I read Lost and Found in Paris and really loved how she told the story, so I was eager to read another one of her books. This story follows three sisters as they cope with the death of their father only to learn they have a sister who was their neighbor growing up. The book is all about how they work through this new information and how the revelation brings them together. I really loved the themes of sisterhood, forgiveness and maturity that were found in the book. But my favorite part was the fact that one of the characters was named Elspeth. I have a unique name, so I am always surprised when I read or see my name out in the wild. There’s a new show on CBS called Elsbeth which always makes me smile even though it’s pronounced and spelled differently. Overall, I really enjoyed the story and will be reading more of Dolan’s books.
That’s a look into what I’m loving this week, some recent buys, foods, and entertainment. If you are still recovering from Easter or Spring Break, what’s been on your radar?
I hope you had a peaceful and joyful Easter if you celebrate. It was wonderful to have my family together, even if it was for a short weekend.
Easter always gets me excited for the start of spring, even if it was slightly earlier this year. From the pastel colors to the blooming flowers and the sunshine, there are so many things to love about this time of year.
A joyous Easter weekend filled with lots of traditions.
Even though we had a mild winter, I’m ready for spring and summer. The new season also means the return of some of my favorite hobbies, which brings us to today’s post…the importance of hobbies. I firmly believe that having hobbies or interests outside of work and family and friends are vital for a life of balance and joy. I’ve tried out different hobbies through the years and as an adult found things that truly interest me and bring me joy.
Growing up, I was involved with different activities and interests. I did theater all through middle school and high school. I was involved in National Honor Society, Student Government and other clubs. In college, I had jobs on campus and was a part of different clubs and organizations too, which kept me busy between classes. I was always on the go; I didn’t have a ton of hobbies. I didn’t play a lot of sports growing up and although I was involved with groups and organizations, I didn’t have a ton of extra interests. I always enjoyed reading, journaling and watching movies or catching up on tv shows, and helping my mom in the kitchen, but It wasn’t until end of college that I wanted to develop consistent hobbies that could be a balance outside of work.
Once I started working full time, I realized I didn’t have homework, or other responsibilities to keep me busy like I was used to my whole life, so it was time to find some interests outside of work and family.
Here’s some of the hobbies I’ve picked up and stuck to in the recent years:
Reading
I have always loved reading. English was my favorite class in school, I loved going to the library as a child and to this day, I make weekly trips to my local branch. I love getting lost in the stories, being transported to other worlds and learning about different people or places. I didn’t read as much in college, due to other books I was reading for classes, but once I graduated, my time for reading opened up. I tend to go through a book a week, depending on the length and I make weekly stops to my library to pick up or return books. I love browsing the shelves for new books, but I always have a long “To Be Read” list of recommended books from blogs, friends, and family. I have even started to download a book on my phone, so I always have a book with me, but I tend to stick with a book I can hold as opposed to a digital book. I spend so much time on screens every day, it’s nice to put it down and focus on something else. Last year, I read over 50 books and I hope to exceed that goal this year. I tend to read first thing in the morning and right before bed at night as a way to ease in and out of the day, but that doesn’t always happen. I always tell myself, as long as you read something, even if it’s just a page, that counts. Reading has been such a relaxing and soothing outlet for me to unwind and forget about the everyday stressors.
One of my latest favorite reads….American Royals by Katharine McGee
Cooking/Baking
Growing up, I loved helping my mom in the kitchen baking and cooking. I enjoyed baking in high school and college, but it wasn’t until I graduated college that I wanted to take my cooking skills to the next level. I started to cook one meal a week to work on my skills in the kitchen and to learn new recipes. Although, I took a hiatus with trying new meals in the kitchen due to a busy schedule, I’m back on track for trying new meals. I have enjoyed learning family recipes and researching new things to try. I’m getting more comfortable in the kitchen using different tools and ingredients and it’s been fun to have my family benefit from my new meals. The best part is that I’m building up my own cookbook for when I am on my own. Here’s how I plan out my recipes. I also have tried different baked goods recipes along the way too. From cookies, to cakes, and all things in between, it’s been fun to replicate some of my favorite desserts.
I’ve truly loved learning new recipes and getting comfortable in the kitchen.
Working Out/Running
In college, I started working out as a way to keep me busy and to stay active and fit. I wanted to continue that healthy lifestyle while I was working, so I found a gym and started going five days a week. I learned different skills and techniques in the gym, and I love the stress reliever it provides and that it helps me maintain a healthy lifestyle. I consider working out a hobby, it brings me joy and it’s something I’m passionate about. Last year, I wanted to challenge myself and start to run, I’ve talked about my running journey here and have truly found a love for running. I consider running one of my newest hobbies. I love the sense of accomplishment after a run, I love how I can clear my mind, and I love to see how far I can go. I do need to improve my speed, but that’s something that takes time and I’m okay with.
One of my latest runs and recent records
Gardening
This was a new hobby I picked up last summer and hopefully can continue it this year. I always wanted to grow a garden and finally gave it a try last year. It took lots of patience and tending, and plenty of trial and error, but I was thrilled with the end result, even if it wasn’t as plentiful as I hope. I learned a great deal about growing and harvesting and I can confirm that homegrown veggies taste way better than store bought. I loved seeing my hard work pay off and I loved that I could use my veggies in recipes. Plus, it was great to spend more time outdoors by tending and checking on my garden.
The fruits of my labor
Piano
This is my latest hobby, which has been one of the more challenging hobbies. I took piano lessons when I was younger but didn’t keep up with them. We have a piano in our home that was sitting idle, and I decided I wanted to try to pick up the hobby again. I have been slowly teaching myself through an app, Simply Piano, and it’s been an interesting learning experience. I have found that like anything, you have to be disciplined with it. For me, that means practicing every day, even if it’s only for ten minutes a day or on the go in the app. I spend more time practicing on my days off but try to get it in every day. Some days, I am on a roll and loving the lessons, other days, I hit a plateau and get stuck on the lesson. But I am slowly learning the instrument once again. Another personal challenge I’ve faced is that my dog hates it when I play and will cry or howl the entire time, which can cause stress and be a distraction. I will try and practice when he is outside, but it doesn’t always shake out that way. This has been one of the more challenging hobbies I have tried, but I am slowly learning it. My favorite part has been learning to play my favorite songs.
A recent accomplishment
Those are some of the hobbies I’m currently trying to incorporate into my day-to-day life. I don’t know if I will keep up with them for the rest of my life, but for now, they bring me joy and purpose and balance outside of work, family and friends. They are little ways I can take care of myself and don’t take up too much of my time. I think that’s the important thing about hobbies, they don’t have to be super expensive or any everyday thing. They can be simple way to take care of yourself and do something for me. Another thing that I have learned about hobbies is that it’s all about making time for them. You may think “I don’t have time for a hobby or to try something new”, but I promise you that if you really care about it and want to do it, you will find the time. I always seem to find a minute here or there to read a few pages of a book instead of scrolling through Instagram mindlessly, it’s all about how you structure and use your time.
I hope this gives you some inspiration about finding a new hobby or re-learning an old one. Don’t be afraid to try something new or put yourself first, it may surprise you, how a little change could make a big effect.
Tell me: what are some hobbies you have picked up or are enjoying? Let me know in the comments below!
Hello all! Happy Friday! We just about made it through March. Is it just me or is spring flying by?! I think a lot of it has to do with the fact we had such a mild winter. I love the sunshine, blue skies, and signs of a new life. It is Easter weekend here.
Signs of spring
Although, earlier this year, the Easter holiday is such a good reminder that spring is right around the corner. I have a few fun Easter traditions planned for this weekend with family which I’m looking forward to.
While we wait for the weekend, here’s some things I have been loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea for another edition of Friday Favorites.
Strawberry Body Scrub– Let’s talk beauty! I got this body scrub as a gift and finally got around to using it. It’s been such a fun treat and product when I am getting ready in the morning. This full body scrub not only smells fresh and fruity, but I love the way it leaves your skin feeling. It especially feels great on rough or dry areas, like your hands or feet. Although, I tend to use scrubs more when I’m taking a bath, I have been using it in the shower too. I may save it to use in the spring and summer too as a way to pamper myself.
Spring Jacket-Although, the sunshine is here, it still can be chilly which is why I am all about light jackets. I got this jacket for Christmas from Lululemon and I have been loving it in the spring. I love the color and the lightweight material too. I only have a few pieces from Lululemon and while they are expensive, they are great quality and I truly enjoy wearing them for out and about and working out.
Reading on my Phone– I never thought I would say this, but another favorite of mine from this week has been reading on my phone. I am a physical book gal, through and through, however, I have been downloading books through Libby (a library app) and have been reading on my phone a lot more. This typically happens when I am waiting for appointments or meetings. I don’t necessarily want to bring a big book with me, but I also don’t want to just sit and scroll on social media. Reading on my phone allows me to enjoy a favorite hobby and I feel more productive than just mindless scrolling. Although I read way more physical books than digital ones, it is nice to always have a book with me wherever I go. Plus, it’s easier when I’m traveling and I don’t want to lug a big book or two with me.
Chocolate Covered Almonds– Another food favorite. I am not a big almond person, they are my least favorite kind of nut, but we picked up these chocolate covered almonds from Wegman’s (a local grocery store) and they are addicting. We finished the container in a few days. I love a good sweet and salty mix (that’s my favorite kind of flavoring). The dark chocolate covering compliments the almond perfectly. These would be a perfect addition to a snack board or just eaten on their own. I enjoyed a few of them at lunch during the work week and it was just enough sweetness to satisfy my sweet tooth. I’m all about trying new snacks and these didn’t disappoint. I will definitely be buying again.
Edamame– I have been on an edamame kick recently. I used them for my salmon bowl recipe a few weeks ago and then included them with a sushi night. After having leftovers, I brought some in to enjoy at lunch. They are so easy to make, I just buy a store package, pop them in the microwave for 15-30 seconds and then you have a tasty and healthy snack. Although I love adding them into stir fries and salads, I enjoy eating them as is with a dash of salt. Yum! I’m a big veggie gal and I’m always looking for different ones to try and incorporate in my meals.
A favorite snack!
That’s some insight into what I’m loving this week. Some life hacks, clothing choices and food. You never know what you will get with Friday Favorites. I hope you have a wonderful Easter weekend if you celebrate. See you back here on Wednesday as we say hello to April!
Happy Friday! I hope you have been having a great March and spring season. I am loving the extra sunshine, warm weather and time outdoors.
As always, I’m linking up with with Erika and Andrea for another weekly edition of Friday Favorites as I share some of the things that I have been loving this week and are on my radar. Here’s been some of my favorite things:
This is Me Now– Have you seen Jennifer Lopez’s movies/biography on Amazon Prime? It’s called This is Me…Now. It’s based off her latest album about her life and love over the past 20 years. I have always enjoyed JLo, but was never a huge die-hard fan. I truly enjoyed her creative way of bringing her music to life and it’s evident in this film. The movie is only an hour long, but it’s packed with incredible choreography and music. It also can lead you going down the rabbit hole reading all about her past and current loves. Definitely worth the watch!
Avocado Crackers– If you have read any of my past posts, you know I am a sucker for trying new snacks. I spotted these avocado crackers at Wegmans and had to try. I love all things avocado and these didn’t disappoint. I love the crisp. crunch and flavor they provide. There is a little bit of kick to them which I appreciate too. You can enjoy these on their own, but they would also taste great with some cheese, hummus or dip. Perfect for a spring snack!
American Royals Series- I talked about the first book a few posts back, but the past few weeks have been filled with my binge-reading my way through the American Royals series. Wow, once I started, I couldn’t stop. It typically takes me about a week to finish a book, but I was finishing them in less than a week because I couldn’t wait to find out what happens. Each book ends with a cliffhanger that will lead you to picking up the next month. I loved the plot of a royal family in America, I loved the characters and how they grew up and evolved through the four books and I loved all the little Easter eggs sprinkled throughout. If you are looking for a good series that’s PG-13, this is a winner-especially in the spring!
Spring Weather-Speaking of spring, I have been LOVING this spring weather. We may have had a mild winter, but I am here for the consistent warmth and sunshine. Last week, I packed clothes to go on walks after work three days in a row and I couldn’t have been happier. I also made it to the Zoo for a trip this year. The sunshine is giving me life right now and I couldn’t be happier.
Grey’s Anatomy is Back– After a long overdue wait due to the writer’s strike and the actor’s strike. Grey’s Anatomy finally returned yesterday. This season will be much shorter, but I’m still grateful we are getting a season to begin with. Depending on when you are reading this, I may or may not have watched the episode yet. I am looking forward to seeing what’s going on with my favorite characters at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. I have been a fan of the series for years and have loved seeing how the show has evolved and how characters have changed and come and gone. I’m eager to see how this season unfolds.
That’s a look into some of my favorite things from this week. Some clothes, some entertainment and some snacks! Tell me, as we are fully in spring, what are some things you are loving?! Let me know in the comments below!
Happy Friday! Also, happy first day of March! Is it just me or did February fly by? January was slow and steady, but February happened in the blink of an eye, but it was filled with all good things, from family time, to soaking up the outdoors, and celebrating Valentine’s Day!
Now that we are in a new month, I’m feeling extra excited about the possibilities of spring, warmer weather and more sunshine!
As always, I am linking up with Erika and Andrea for this week’s edition of Friday Favorites. Here’s some things that I have been loving.
Brown Sweater– I popped into T.J. Maxx last week for some browsing. I wasn’t planning on making any purchases, but I saw a few things that caught my attention and ending up purchasing. A new, long, brown sweater to wear at work was one of them. One of my most common phrases that you can hear me saying at work is “I’m cold or it’s cold.” I am always chilly no matter the weather. It could be 75 degrees outside, and I would still have a sweater on inside. Needless to say, I always have a sweater or light jacket at work, so they tend to get some wear and tear. I have gone through two work sweaters and this brown sweater is my third. I previously had white and tan sweaters. I like that this sweater and the ones I have worn in the past are comfortable, come in neutral colors, and professional looking enough that I can wear it around the office. I was in need of a new sweater and T.J. Maxx had the answer.
Pink Jacket– Speaking of T.J. Maxx, I also found this pink cropped jacket that can be dressed up or down. You can wear it with dress pants (think black, blue, or white), a skirt, or a solid dress in the office. You can also dress it down with leggings or jeans and boots to elevate your look. I love the color and the style and the versatility that it provides. You never know what you will find when you stop in T.J. Maxx.
American Royals– After hearing about this series over the past couple years, I am finally making my way through the American Royals series. The four-book series follows the tale if America had a monarchy. Think a mix of the Royal family in Great Britan meets America. I love all things about the Royal family, so this has been such a treat to read. Book one really sets up all the characters and the plots and leaves the reader with a cliffhanger that will make them want to start reading book two right away. I’m currently making my way through book two and can’t get enough of the relationship drama, family dynamics and “history”.
Buffalo Chicken Dip– I love all things appetizers, dips, and snacks. I would choose those over a big meal any day. One of my favorite dips/snacks is Buffalo Chicken Dip. You can enjoy it with chips, bread, crackers, but my favorite way to enjoy it is with some fresh veggies. We made it a few weeks back with this recipe and it was a hit. I enjoyed it with my family and ate some leftovers for lunch in the coming days with veggies.
American Nightmare-Have you seen the new Netflix documentary, American Nightmare? It’s all about a couple who gets attacked in their home and the girlfriend gets kidnapped. I finished it in three sessions, there’s only three episodes and they are only 45 minutes long. I could have finished it sooner if I had the time. There’s definitely some twists and unexpected turns that I wasn’t anticipating, but would definitely recommend it if you are a fan of true crime.
That wraps up this week’s Friday Favorites, short and sweet, some entertainment, some recipes and some clothes.
As we embark on a new month, what are some things you are looking forward to? Let me know in the comments below!
Happy Friday! I hope it has been a great week for you as we get ready for another weekend. I hope you are able to fill your cup with what matters most, whether it’s family time, some extra sleep, or a fun excursion. As we make our way through February I am getting set for another round of fun favorites from this past week. These are little things that have brought me joy and I hope you are finding things that have made you smile this past week too.
Let’s jump into this week’s Friday Favorites with Erika and Andrea.
Office Ladies and the Lazy Genius Collaboration– I love the Office and I love the podcast, The Lazy Genius. When I heard they were a part of the same network, I couldn’t wait to see what it would bring. Kendra joined the Office Ladies podcast for an episode and in return, the Office Ladies made an appearance on The Lazy Genius. I loved hearing about their collaboration and how Kendra helped both Angela and Jenna lazy genius different parts of their lives. If you are fans or both or either of these, give both of them a listen. You can find The Lazy Genius episode here and The Office Ladies episode here.
Coloring Books– I always loved to color as a child and got back into it in college. Once again, coloring has found its way in my life and I’m not complaining. I enjoy the calming activity if I’m watching a show in the background or if I’m sitting and just relaxing. I also enjoy coloring or doodling if sports are on and I’m only semi paying attention. Haha! I know studies have been done about the relaxing technique between coloring and I have found that it calms me down and is a soothing activity. It has definitely brought me joy on chilly winter days.
Thicker than Water– I finished Kerry Washington’s memoir “Thicker than Water” last week. I was captivated from start to finish as she talked about her upbringing, getting into acting and secrets about her childhood that she learned as an adult. It was a fast read as I finished it cover to cover in four days. Washington focused more on how she got to where she is today more than her career in tv and film. I really appreciated her candor about tackling different challenges as she grew up. Washington covered a lot of topics in an earlier interview she did this year with ABC back in September. I would recommend watching that as a companion to reading her book.
Sanditon- I heard about this PBS mini series from The Lazy Genius. In Kendra’s newsletter she talked about how she has been into all this Jane Austen, including this mini-series about one of Austen’s unfinished books. I am currently watching this series on Amazon Prime and have been loving it. The series follows a young woman who goes to live with a family who has plans to build up a town by the water. There’s romance, drama, dealing with the class system and of course a beautiful backdrop where it all takes place. If you enjoy old British shows or movies, give it a try!
Brownie Truffles– As we close out this edition of Friday Favorites, I wanted to share this sweet treat I made last week. I have always been intimidated by making truffles, but I found this recipe from Hershey’s (one of my favorite companies) and had to try it! The recipe was so easy to follow and they came out delicious! Super easy for any party or gathering and they were a hit with my family.
That wraps up today’s Friday Favorites! Some entertainment, recipes, and family fun!
Tell me: how are you filling your cup this weekend? I hope you make it a memorable one!
Hello all! Happy Wednesday and Happy Valentine’s Day! ! I hope you are having a great day celebrating all things love, whether its with your significant other, best friends, or even celebrating love for yourself. Spreading some love island kindness is so important not just today, but every day.
Valentine’s Day cookies are always a must!
It’s also the second Wednesday of the month which means it’s time for another Let’s Look. Last month we talked about cleaning our closets.
This month’s prompt is Things We Do Every Day. Obviously there’s things every person does every day (brush their teeth, shower, eat, sleep). I decided to go through my day and take note of the unique things I do (or try to do) every day.
Here’s what I try to do every day:
Journal- I always start the day with some prayer time and journaling. Sometimes I follow prompts, other times, I write what’s on my mind or how I’m feeling.
My journal for 2024
Movement- Whether it’s through a workout, a run, biking, a walk or yoga. I always try to get 30 minutes of movement in. I aim to get it first thing in the morning, so I don’t have to worry about it as the day goes on, but sometimes I don’t get movement in until after the work day.
One of my workouts
Reading– I love to read, so I always try to get in some reading every day, whether it’s a few chapters or pages of whatever book I’m currently reading. Reading is a hobby that I love and try to incorporate every day. I typically read in the morning and at night as a way to start and end my day by relaxing.
My current read
Wordle– This is a silly one, but I always start my day with the Wordle. It keeps me sharp and it’s always fun to play at the start of my day, plus my friends and I will try to see who can get the word in the least amount of tries.
Word Search– Another way I like to keep my mind sharp is by doing a word search. Most of the time I choose fairly easy ones that I can accomplish in 15 minutes, but it’s a fun hobby that entertains me.
No day is complete without a few minutes doing word searches
News Briefings and Blogs– I have a few blogs that I follow and a few trusted new sources that I always read before the day begins. I always check the top stories of USA Today and I love Katie Couric Media sent to my inbox in the mornings. I always like to be briefed about what’s going on before the day begins.
My most used apps in the morning
Family Time– My family and relationships are so important to me, so I always aim to have a family meal together or catch up after a long day. I also aim to check in with friends once a week to see how my people are doing.
That’s just a little recap of things unique to me that I try to do every day. Most of them I do in the morning before work because I know the days can get busy and crazy, but I always feel better when I have my hobbies or interests out of the way at the start of the day.
There’s other things I try to do every day (laundry, cleaning, cooking)-but the above list are ones that I make a point to do every day. If I don’t get to something it’s not the end of the world, but I try to incorporate these little things to help set me up for success for the day ahead.
Tell Me: what things do you try to do every day? Let me know in the comments below! Happy Valentine’s Day! Sending you love on this Wednesday!
