Tag: a little bit of everything

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Friday Favorites

Currently #12

Hello All!

Happy Friday! I hope you all had a great week and are looking forward to the weekend and have something spooky planned for Halloween. I know this weekend I will be enjoying some fall trail mix (I like to add candy corn to mine for some extra fall fun) and maybe a Halloween movie or two.

Such a tasty and easy trail mix.

I’m linking up with with Erika and Andrea for today’s Friday Favorites. Here’s some things I’ve been loving this week.

Nora Goes Off Script-I know this was a big summer book, but I just got around to reading Nora Goes Off Script and it was worth the wait. It follows the story of a screen writer for Hallmark-esque movies and one of them gets picked up for the big screen and the crew comes to shoot some scenes at her home. This newly divorced mom is thrown through a loop when the lead actor asks her to stay at her house for a week once they wrap. Will he just stay in the guest house to clear his mind or will the two of them have their own Hallmark movie ending? You will have to read to find out. P.S. the curveball at the end caught me totally off guard, if you’ve read it already-let’s chat!

The Empress– Besides watching Gilmore Girls this fall, I’ve been watching a few mini series and have found a few that I’ve really enjoyed. I finished The Empress on Netflix last week. It takes place in Austria in the 1700’s and it tells the story of a young girl who is chosen to marry the emperor and become the next empress. The costumes, setting and cinematography are to die for! It is originally in German, but you can watch it in English. There’s only six episodes so you can finish it in a weekend or week depending on how fast you are at binge watching. There was definitely a few cliff hangers which has me wondering if there will be a season 2?!

The Crown Season 5 Trailer Released– Speaking of Netflix, the trailer for season 5 of the Crown dropped this past week and it has me so excited for November 9th. From the new cast to the storylines and the drama that we know unfolds with it. I can’t wait! I’m curious to see how this season will play out and where it will leave for season 6, the final season. Once the series is done, I’m looking forward to going back and rewatching it from the beginning in one consecutive take. 

Meghan Markle in Variety– Sticking with the Royal Family, Variety released the cover and story with Meghan Markle last week. It was delayed due to the Queen’s death in September, so I was excited to finally read it. I loved all the photos of Megahn in the spread, I think they did a beautiful job capturing Meghan and her story. I really liked how the article was a Q and A format and found so many of her responses to be genuine and real.  She touched on everything from the Queen’s passing to her current projects and favorite snacks! I’m looking forward to seeing what she works on next. 

Midnights-Taylor Swift dropped her new album Midnights on October 21 and wow, what an album. I wasn’t sure what to expect since her recent albums have been so different from one another but I have really been enjoying it. I’ve been playing it in the car going to and from work and running errands. I think Taylor’s vocal range and talent was showcased in this album, if you are a Taylor Swift fan, what’s been your favorite songs from it?

That’s a look into some things I’ve been loving this week! Tell me, what’s been a favorite of yours this past week? Let me know in the comments below! Happy Friday!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #11

Happy Friday! Last week has been filled with so much fall fun! I’m looking forward to more of it this weekend! I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea for today’s Friday Favorites to share five favorite things I’m loving this week.

Hocus Pocus 2– I finally watched the new Hocus Pocus movie and loved it. I always look forward to watching the first one every year and didn’t know what to expect with the new movie. There were so many Easter eggs tucked throughout the movie. The best thing about the movie was seeing all the original cast members. Definitely a fun, family movie to add to the holiday lineup.

Family movie night this spooky season!

Apple Nachos– I’ve been enjoying so many apple recipes over the past few weeks. From breads to muffins and pies. This past week, I made a fun snack that was certainly a crowd pleaser. I saw a recipe for apple nachos on Pinterest and had to try it. It’s super easy to make, simply slice an apple, or two or three, drizzle caramel sauce and then your favorite toppings. I added some nuts and m&m’s. It was so easy to make and tasty too.

A delicious fall treat!

Cover Story– I finished another book that I couldn’t put down. Cover Story tells the story of a young college girl, named Lora who meets a young heiress, named Cat during a summer internship. The two become friends and Lora ends up becoming Cat’s ghost writer. However, Cat has some secrets that Lora looks to uncover. This has some of the Inventing Anna vibes if you watched the Netflix series last year. Between the plot twists and bombshell ending, I couldn’t put it down. 

Cuyahoga Valley National Park– Last week I went to Cuyahoga Valley National Park for a fall walk and picnic. I walked eight miles and saw so many beautiful sights and waterfalls. It was the perfect fall day and loved getting fresh air and lots of exercise. It was so fun to try a new place and enjoy the autumn season!

A gorgeous fall walk!

Gilmore Girls-As I type this post, I’m enjoying my newest favorite, Gilmore Girls. I just started it and have fallen in love with it. I love the relationship between mother and daughter, the sweet town and all the fall vibes. It’s been on my watch list for the longest time and I’m so glad I finally started it.

That’s a look into some of the things I’ve been loving. What’s something that brought you joy this week? Let me know below!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #10

 Hi everyone! Happy Friday! I hope you had a great week and are ready for the weekend! I’ve been enjoying all the fall fun between getting outdoors and staying cozy inside on the weekends. I’m linking up with  Erika and Andrea for today’s Friday Favorites. Here’s some things I’m loving this week.

  • Guacamole Chips– I always love trying new things that I see at the store. I was at Marshall’s a few weeks back and was looking through their food aisle and came across these guacamole chips. I always enjoy chips and guac but was excited and intrigued to see the pairing together. I picked up a bag and tried it with Taco Tuesday last week and it was a hit. I personally think you can eat them on their own without dips or sauces. 10/10 recommend!
  • Apple Picking-I checked apple picking off my fall bucket list and had so much fun doing it. I collected three different kinds of apples and have already enjoyed eating them on their own and in apple pie, yum!
  • Calvin Klein Dress– I got this new Calvin Klein dress from Marshall’s and wore it out this past week to a fundraiser. I love the cut and style of it, but I really like how it’s the perfect transitional dress. It works great as we go from summer to fall with the short sleeves but leather look. Calvin Klein is always my go-to for dresses and they never disappoint.
  • Changing Leaves– It may sound silly, but I went on a fall drive last week and I loved seeing all the changing leaves. It seemed like fall snuck up on us, but now that it’s here, I’ve been loving it. From hot apple cider to turning on the fireplace to leaning into the coziness. I’m here for it!
  • All We Ever Wanted– I’ve been on an Emily Griffin kick recently and loved her book, “All We Ever Wanted”. It’s new to me, but a few years old. I’ve read Baby Proof and didn’t know what to expect with this book. Although, the topic was definitely heavier, I found the book to be thought provoking. The story follows two families who are brought together over a night that changes everyone’s lives. The theme’s of finding yourself, morals, values, realizing what’s truly important stick out to me. I really enjoyed the book and couldn’t put it down once I started it. I’m looking forward to reading more of her books.

That’s a look at what I’m loving this week. Tell me: what are looking forward to this weekend?

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #8

Hello all! Happy Friday! I hope you had a great week and have some fun weekend plans, maybe even something fall-hello pumpkin patches and corn mazes? This week really felt like autumn was setting in, from the cooler weather to the changing leaves, it’s been giving me all the fall vibes.

I’m linking up with linking up with Erika and Andrea for today’s Friday Favorites! Here’s five things I’m loving this week. 

Apple Muffins– In true fall spirit, I have been spending a lot of time indoors and that includes doing lots of baking. From muffins to cookies, it’s been so fun and cozy to enjoy a warm treat inside.  Apples have been my go-to for baking. I made apple muffins this past week and they were a hit. I made them last year and couldn’t wait to make them again this year. They are so easy to make and require little prep and ingredients. I have plans to do some apple picking soon and I know I will be making more recipes with them. Here’s some more apple recipes I enjoy!

Old Navy Shirts– I did some shopping at Old Navy and one of the things I love are their t-shirts. I always get them in white or black in short and long sleeve to have some neutral colors, but they had cute colors for fall and I grabbed a few on sale. I love the color green and I love how it breaks up neutral colors. The fabric is also super soft too. Perfect for fall and winter.

Malibu Rising– I’ve also been doing a lot of reading. I’ve been on a Taylor Jenkins Reid kick. I read Daisy Jones and the Six in the summer and I just finished Malibu Rising this past week. It follows the story of one unforgettable party in Malibu that a family throws every year. However, at this one party, secrets come out, decisions are made and things are forever changed. I personally liked Daisy Jones and the Six better but this was still very good. For any Taylor Jenkins Reid fans out there, what book should I read next?

Snack Lunches– I’ve been eating a lot of lunches at home lately and as a way to clean out my fridge and use what I have, I’ve been enjoying snack plates. I’ll load up fresh cut fruits, veggies, cheese and crackers and enjoy. It’s healthy, filling and it uses what I have in my house. 

Operation Mincemeat– I’ve been enjoying some movies and shows on Netflix recently including Operation Mincemeat. It’s based on a true story about a mission during World War II involved Great Britain, Germany and Italy. I really enjoyed the plot, the mystery aspect and the casting too. It is a longer movie but keeps you on the edge of your seat. 

That’s a look into what I’m loving this week. Tell me, what’s a favorite thing or two you are loving this week! Let me know in the comments below! Happy Friday!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #7

Hello all!

Happy Friday! I hope you all had a great week and have something fun planned for this weekend. Like every Friday, I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea for a new edition of Friday Favorites. Here’s five things that I’m loving this week.

New Scent: Yesterday was the start of the fall season and it happened to coincide with it being time to get a new scent of body spray/lotion. Bath and Body Works is my go-to for lotion, sprays, wall flowers, etc. I always look forward to changing scents when an old scent runs out. I tried this new scented Butterfly and loved it, it’s a fresh but warm smell if that makes sense. It would go perfect for the spring or summer season, but even would work for fall too. I liked the scent so much, I purchased a mini spray for work too. I can’t wait to use it every day.

Eyeshadow Brushes: I am always on the search for new makeup products and things that make getting ready faster and efficient. This next favorite is my no means a new invention. I found a great deal on Amazon for lots of eyeshadow brushes. This pack came in a clear case to keep them all together and in one spot. These brushes will last me a few days since there’s essentially four sponges per stick. I don’t have to worry about washing these brushes, I can just toss them when I’m done with them. I really like that the sponges don’t fall off when applying eye shadow, they provide great coverage on my lids, and they make blending easier. If you are searching for some new brushes, give these a try!

House of Gucci– Again not a new movie, but a new to me movie. I watched House of Gucci last week and loved it. I thought the acting was so well done, from Lady Gaga to Adam Driver and even Jared Leto. Leto was unrecognizable to me. I really enjoyed the fashion, the plot and the build up to the tragic ending. I learned a lot about the Gucci family that I didn’t know before while watching the film too. If you are a fan of the fashion industry, definitely give it a try. There are a few adult scenes and it is a longer movie, so just a few things to consider when planning your next movie night.

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies– If you are looking for a movie snack, this might be it. I picked up these mini cookies from Target and loved them. They have the perfect balance of caramel and chocolate chip. They are bite sized cookies so you can eat one or two and your sweet tooth will be satisfied. These would be a great afternoon pick-me-up, lunch snack or movie treat. I loved popping into Target for everything, but seeing their new snacks and trying them out are always a favorite for me!

Sweet Corn– Sticking with food, I’ve been on a sweet corn kick. My family and I have been enjoying a lot of corn while grilling. We’ve enjoyed it with burgers and hot dogs, chicken, even steak. We recently tried putting corn on the grill and I’ve found that I enjoy it even more over the fire compared to boiling them inside on the stove. If you are looking to have one more cookout before the weather turns, consider some sweet corn.

That’s a look at some of my favorite things today. What are you loving today?

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #6

Hello All!

Happy Friday! 

I hope you have all had a great week and have something fun and maybe even fall-ish planned for this weekend.

I’m hopping on here to share some of my favorite things from this past week as I link up with I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea! 

To start things off, it’s launch day for Simplified planners for the 2023 year. I always love placing my order for my new planner for the upcoming year. Depending on when you read this, I’ve either already placed my order or will be placing it soon. Once I get my shipment in, I’ll be sure to share! If you are looking for a new planner or some accessories, be sure to check out Simplified. 

Here’s Five Things I’m Loving this Week:

–The Perfect Couple

I finished reading this book last week and loved it! It was my first Elin Hilderbrand novel and wow, I’m hooked. I love beach reads in the summer, but when I saw this one had a bit of mystery to it, I was even more intrigued. The book is about a young couple who, alongside their family and friends, are in Nantucket for the weekend to get married. But, on the morning of their wedding, the Maid of Honors is found dead. As you read, you will also find that there’s a lot of secrets in the midst of family members and wedding attendees. How did she end up dead and who wanted her gone? You will have to read to find out. 

 As I was reading, I also learned that there are plans to make this into a series and I’m so excited to see who they cast for the characters. If you have read this book before, what did you think? Also, let me know what book of Elin’s I should read next!

–Elizabeth Holmes

After the passing of Queen Elizabeth II last week, I have been reading and watching a lot about the late queen. If you have been following my blog for a while, then you may remember that I’m an avid Crown watcher and Royal family fan. In fact,  I read two books about the Royal family this summer. I’ve been following a lot of the traditional events that are taking place in the United Kingdom this week, but I’ve also been turning to Royal commentors to learn more too. Author Elizabeth Holmes is my go-to. I follow her on Instagram where she breaks down royal fashion and I get her weekly newsletters too. She even wrote a book on Royal fashion, you can check it out here. If you are looking for more insights or knowledge about the Royal Family, check her out on Instagram

–Crumbl

I got dinner with a friend this past week and we got Crumbl cookies for dessert. I’ve heard about these infamous, giant, gourmet cookies and couldn’t wait to try them for myself. Every week, locations puts out six different flavors for customers to choose from. I went with the classic sugar cookie with pink icing and loved it. The cookies are so large and flavorful that it wouldn’t be a bad idea to share them or sample them over a day or two. Although, I don’t have a location near me, I look forward to trying another flavor the next time I stop in for a cookie.

The sweetest treat!

–Disney Plus New Releases 

Disney Plus released several trailers for new movies and tv shows that will be out over the next few months. I don’t watch too many shows/movies on Disney Plus but a lot of the trailers that got released were for movies I grew up watching. I’m very excited to see the sequel to Hocus Pocus especially as we get closer to Halloween. After Halloween comes Christmas, which means it’s time for holiday movies like the Santa Clause, I’m intrigued to see how this series following the movies will play out. Last but not least, seeing the sequel to Enchanted come out made me happy. I’ve heard rumors about a sequel but to see it come to life is so fun! I’m curious to see how Disenchanted will play out. 

One of my favorite things about all these trailers is that many members of the original casts will be returning, cue the nostalgia.

–Sweet Magnolias

I started a new show on Netflix. I’ve heard a lot of great reviews about Sweet Magnolias and started it over the weekend. It’s the perfect light-hearted show with hints of drama. I love the music, the friendships and the storylines. After watching the first few episodes, it has me craving a simple life in a quaint town. 

That’s just a little recap of some of my favorite things from this week.

Let me know below, what are you loving this week?

Happy Friday and happy weekend!!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #5

Happy Friday! We made it through the first full week of September! Woo hoo! 

I hope you have something fun planned for this weekend, maybe some football action with the return of the NFL season? As always, I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea for this edition of Friday Favorites!

Here’s five things I’m loving this week!

Trying out the Quick Cherry Tomato Pasta– A few weeks back, I shared that I wanted to try this Cherry Tomato Pasta from Mix and Match Mama. I made it for dinner this past Sunday and loved it. It was super easy to make, there was lots of flavor and it was fast and filling. I will definitely be making this again!

The perfect Sunday dinner

New Makeup samples– I mentioned a few weeks back that I was testing some makeup samples out. I got a few foundation samples from Benefit and Valentino and have slowly been trying them out. I tend to stick to my Bare Minerals powder foundation, and I plan on sticking to that. But, it has been nice trying some other products out especially on days off. I have been enjoying the coverage that the liquid foundation provides and it’s long-lasting too. Both wins in my book!

A few samples I’ve tried
More samples I’ve tried.

Alleyoop Multi-Tasker Brush- Sticking with beauty, I heard about this Multi-tasker Brush by Alleyoop from a few different people and when I saw it went on sale, I decided to try it for myself. I have been looking for a set of small travel makeup brushes to keep at work for makeup touch-ups through the day and rather than buy four separate brushes, I decided to go for a four in one brush. This brush features a blush brush, sponge, eye shadow brush and eye line/brow brush. I’ve been using it all this week and I love it. It blends makeup really well, I like that It can fit in a makeup bag, and it comes with its own too. My favorite feature is that it’s four in one, I’m not digging through my purse looking for different brushes, it has all my main brushes for touch-ups. this would also work as a great travel makeup brush too. Overall, I’ve been very happy with this purchase. 5 Stars from me!

My favorite brush for work!

Switching out Notebooks– With so many students heading back to school and back into the classroom, it has me feeling a bit nostalgic of school days. I recently had to upgrade my notebook for work and it brought me back to my school days and picking out fresh supplies. There’s nothing quite like starting a new month and using a fresh notebook too. I got a much larger notebook and I’m looking forward to more space to jot down notes and keep track of to-do lists through the day. 

New month, new notebook!

Meghan Markle in The Cut-If you have been following me for a while then you know that I’m an avid follower of the Royal Family. These last few years have been interesting to say the least. I really enjoyed reading this interview in The Cut featuring Meaghan Markle. I love how genuine and honest the article portrayed her. I’m looking forward to see more of the work her and Harry do together over the next few months. 

That’s just a look into things I’ve been loving this week. Tell me, what are some things that are jumping out at you!?

Have a wonderful weekend!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #4

Hey guys! I’m back with another week of Friday Favorites where I link up with Erika and Andrea! There was so many things that I loved this week, it was hard to narrow it down to just five favorites. Without further ado, here we go!

  • Sephora Eye Shadow Palette-I’ve shared before how I’m trying new makeup samples and I got this eye shadow palette from Sephora. This is one of my first Sephora products and I am loving it! I love the colors and how well they blend and stay on. Really pretty shades for the fall and winter months.
  • Wall Flower– I had some coupons from Bath and Body Works and had to stock up on some body care items and had a coupon for a free wall flower. I’ve always used a diffuser with essential oils in my room and loved them, so I never considered a wall flower. I decided to try one out and wow-I love it. The scent is long lasting and it’s not too powerful either. I will definitely be getting more scents for the different seasons. Right now I have Eucalyptus and Mint and it’s so soothing.
Look at the cute succulent plant, love it!
  • Healthy Lunch Options-With a new season and month here, I’m looking to make healthier meal choices. One way I’m doing that is by choosing better foods for my meals. Here’s a look at my lunch from this week. A packet of guac, some multigrain crackers, cheese and carrots. It was well balanced, I got a mix of sweet and salty and it filled me up. I’m on the hunt for more healthier lunch options. If you have any ideas, let me know!
A look at my lunches for the week!
  • Look Both Ways– This was such a cute Netflix movie that I watched last weekend. It tells the story of a young woman on her college graduation night and how one decision changes her life. The movie follows the two directions her life takes. Really cute movie and perfect for a girls night in.
  • Emily Ley’s New Book-Last week, I was talking about Emily’s large note pads from Simplified and this week, I get to talk about her new book, Sure as the Sunrise. I was so excited to learn she wrote a devotional. I already pre-ordered it and I can’t wait to read it and incorporate it in my daily routine. You can pre-order yours here!

That’s another look at some favorites for this week! What have you been loving recently? Have a great weekend!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #3

Happy Final Friday of the month! As we wrap up another week and month, I’m sharing five things I’m loving this week as I’m teaming up with Erika and Andrea for Friday Favorites! Here we go!

  • Peach salad-I have been loving fresh peaches this summer. I had this peach salad at a wedding last weekend and loved the sweetness mixed in with the cheese and greens along with the crunch of nuts. Yum! I definitely want to try my own version of the recipe at some point.

  • Rose Water and Vitamin C serum– I got a few beauty products samples recently and have been testing them out over the past few days. I’ve been using this Squalane, Vitamin C and Rose Water serum by Biossance each night. I apply a few drops to my face each night before bed and I have been really enjoying how it feels on my skin and how I wake up feeling extra refreshed. I’m just using a sample, so I’m not sure if I will invest in it full time, but it’s fun to try it out at the end of summer.
  • 5 Ways to Take Better Breaks During the Workday. I have been a fan of Shondra Rhimes for years, from Grey’s Anatomy to Scandal, How to Get Away with Murder and more. I’ve also read her book, Years of Yes and LOVED it! Shonda now has a newsletter that I subscribe too where she has different articles about life, tv, health, and business. I saw this article and found it so informative especially when it comes to the importance of taking those work breaks whether you are in an office or work from home. A great thing to keep in mind as we make our way into a new season.
  • Simplified Large Desk Pad–Simplified is one of my favorite brands and I love all their products, from planners to note books and stickers. When I have a busy day or a long to-do list, their large pads are a go to for me. I have been using this one a lot recently, it’s also great if you need to do a brain dump!

Those are just five things I’m loving this week. Tell me! What’s been a favorite moment of this week for you?

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #2

Hey guys!

I have another edition of Friday Favorites! Once again, I’m teaming up with Erika and Andrea for a second edition of Friday Favorites! Here’s some things I’ve been loving this past week!

  1. New Blogs- I have my go-to blogs that I love to follow and read every day, here’s some of my favorites. But, recently, I’ve been finding some new ones that are right up my alley. I started reading Ashley Brooke’s blog and I love how she shares about lifestyle, fashion, home decor and motherhood. Definitely a fun read to add to my daily blogs!

2. New Facial Cleanser – I was out of town for a few days and like I posted a few weeks back in this post, I tried some sample products! I love how this facial cleanser smells and how it leaves my skin feeling refreshed.. I love my current facial routine at home and won’t be switching it but this was a fun change up for a few days!

3. Summer Sandals- I jumped on the trend with these shoes. They kept popping up while I was browsing stores online and while I was doing window shopping and I decided to bite the bullet and get them. I love the platform sandal and how you can pair them with shorts, skirts or sundresses. A summer fashion favorite for sure!

4. Columbus Zoo- I love zoos and animals and I got to go to the Columbus Zoo for the first time last week! It was so well laid out and fun to see so many animals, definitely worth a day trip. The weather was perfect for a day at the zoo!

5. Avocado Toast-I know I’m late to the party, but I’m been enjoying avocado toast this summer. One of my friends made it for me when I was visiting and I loved it. I’ve been enjoying for breakfast and brunch a few times this summer! Not only is it tasty but also filling.

That’s another edition of Friday Favorites! I hope you have a relaxing and fun August weekend! What are you loving this week?