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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #27

Hi everyone! Happy Friday! I hope you had a great work week and are ready for the weekend. Itā€™s the weekend before Valentineā€™s Day, which means itā€™s time to bring out all the heart shaped treats and goodies, put on a cute outfit and celebrate LOVE this weekend or early next week.Ā 

I made these heart shaped peanut butter cookies last week from Mix and Match Mama and they were so good and the perfect way to enjoy February!

Before we head into the weekend, I have a fun round up of Friday Favorites for you as I link up with Ā ErikaĀ andĀ Andrea.

Letā€™s Dive in!

MADOFF: The Monster of Wall Street- I just finished this four part documentary series on Netflix and really found it interesting. I knew who Bernie Madoff was and what he did, but never knew the whole story and all the background. I found this mini-series to be fascinating and informative. I really liked how they re-enacted crucial moments in history in addition to the interviews of those involved. You can finish this in a weekend or over the course of the week after work. Netflix did a really good job with this docu-series.

Covergirl Concealer- Iā€™m trying a new concealer from Covergirl and Iā€™m loving it. For the longest time, I was using their concealer stick for makeup touch ups. But I wanted to try this new liquid concealer and I have been happy with the results so far. It goes on super smooth and blends really well. There are so many different shades, so you can match it easily to your skin tone. Iā€™m always hesitant to try new makeup products but have been happy with this new concealer so far.

Midnight at the Pera Palace-The winter months have me hunkering down and watching shows and movies on my watchlist on Netflix and Amazon Prime. Midnight at the Pera Palace has been on my watch list for months and I finally got around to watching it and wish I had watched it earlier. Thereā€™s only one season so far and thereā€™s eight episodes in season one, so itā€™s not too much of a time commitment. Itā€™s a Turkish show, but you can watch it in English and with subtitles. It follows the story of a young journalist who does a story about an old hotel and realizes thereā€™s more to the hotel than its history. Hint: it involves time travel and making sure the past doesnā€™t affect the future. 10/10 recommendation.

Caramel Apple Bourbon Trail Mix– I love trying new trail mixes and snacks from Target and Giant Eagle. This trail mix is the perfect mix between sweet and salty. Thereā€™s cranberries, almonds, apple bites and pretzels. Iā€™ve been enjoying this with lunch or as an afternoon snack. Just enough flavor for an afternoon pick me up.

Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris– I saw so many previews for this movie and couldnā€™t wait to watch the movie. Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris follows the story of a woman who works as a house cleaner and looks to fulfill her dream of wearing a designer gown. This movie takes her from England to Paris where she gets a newfound sense of confidence and makes some friends along the way. This movie will have you dreaming of a trip to Paris! Such a cute mother/daughter or girlfriend movie!

Thatā€™s just a look at some things Iā€™m loving this week. Tell me! What are your plans for the weekend? Do you plan on celebrating Valentineā€™s Day or Galentineā€™s Day? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy Friday!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #26

Happy First Friday of February! I hope you have something fun planned for the first weekend of February! 

Ironically, all my favorites today tie into the theme of love. If you are looking for a rom com, something sweet or a gift for someone special, I have you covered. Here’s what I have been LOVING this week as I link up with ErikaĀ andĀ Andrea.

About Fate-Have you seen this cute rom-com on Amazon Prime? About Fate follows the story of two people in different relationships, one serious, one not so serious, but they run into one another without their significant others and end up spending New Year’s Eve together overcoming one obstacle to another to get to their dates. They end up learning they have more in common than they thought andĀ fateā€‹ keeps bringing them together. Definitely worth the watch to gear up for Valentine’s Day.

About Fate was such a cute movie on Amazon Prime.

New Candle-It was time to break open a new candle and I am loving this candle scent “Strawberry Snowflakes” from Bath and Body Works. I typically don’t purchase candles from Bath and Body Works, but I received this candle as a gift and have been loving it. It’s a sugary-sweet scent that’s a perfect mix of fruity and fresh cookies and great for fall. I always love to burn a candle when I am getting ready to start the day or unwinding at the end of the day. Candles just spark joy and this would be a great Galentine’s gift for your girlfriends this year!

Mint and Dark Chocolate Kit Kat Duo-Speaking of sweet, if you are a fan of mint, you may want to try Mint and Dark Chocolate Kit Kats. I got them as a gift and really enjoyed them. I already enjoy Kit Kats as sweet treat, and these just elevate them. They are the perfect mix of mint and chocolate and crunch. I highly recommend picking them up the next time you are in the grocery store.Ā 

Eye Massager– I saw this eye massager on so many gift guides last Christmas and as some who gets headaches frequently, I wanted to try it for myself. I got it for Christmas and have tried it a handful of times. There are different settings that you can adjust such as pressure, heat, sound and vibrations. If you get headaches around your temples, eyes or head, I would highly recommend investing in this eye massager.Ā 

Donut Phone Holder-Another super useful Christmas gift. As someone who is always on near this phone at work or home, this donut ring is so useful. You can prop your phone up vertical or horizontal to either use it for reading, answering text messages or using apps or, using it to watch videos. I typically like to have it propped up on my desk when I am working so I can see messages or notification. I’ve also used it in the kitchen when I am cooking and looking up a recipe. A fun gadget that proves to be quite useful too.

That’s a look into some things I am LOVING this week. As we embark in a new month, what are some things you are loving this week? Let me know in the comments below!

Have the BEST weekend!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #23


Happy Friday friends! I hope you all had a wonderful week. This was a busy, but good week, so I was very happy when the weekend arrived.Ā 

As the colder temperatures settle in, I have been spending more time indoors. I still have been trying to get outdoors for fresh air and exercise, but it can get tricky. This weekā€™s Friday Favorites is a mix of indoor and outdoor fun. Hereā€™s a few things Iā€™m loving this week as I link up with Ā ErikaĀ andĀ Andrea.

Winter Walks– I took advantage of the mild weather last week and got in a two mile walk on a day off. Thankfully, the wind wasnā€™t too horrible and I bundled up, but it was so good to get in a nice long walk, have good conversations and get an extra workout in. Iā€™m hoping to make it a habit on days with mild winter weather.Ā 

Just Feed Me– I really enjoyed taking up cooking and trying new recipes last year, but have been slipping due to busy schedules. I got Just Feed Me by Jessie James Decker for Christmas and have been loving looking for new recipes to try. I made Jessieā€™s Chicken Noodle Soup last week and it was so good. I made a big batch with plenty of leftovers for lunches. Iā€™m looking forward to trying more recipes this winter and in the spring and summer too.Ā 

Warm soup for a cold day.

Knives Out: Glass Onion-After seeing lots of previews for Knives Out Glass Onion, I couldnā€™t wait to watch it. I enjoyed the first movie and really enjoyed the second. I liked the ensemble cast, the surprise cameos and most of all, the mystery of ā€œWho Done Itā€. There was lots of twists and turns and right when you thought you figured it all out, there was another curveball. 10/10 recommend watching it for your next movie night on Netflix.

The People We Hate at the Wedding– Another movie, but a different genre I enjoyed watching was ā€œThe People We Hate at the Weddingā€, you can find this on Amazon Prime and itā€™s the perfect rom-com. This movie follows two siblings and their mother who travel to England for their half-sisterā€™s wedding. Thereā€™s a few bumps to get to the big day, but itā€™s filled with lots of family drama, laughs, love, and the movie wraps with a happy ending.Ā 

Apple Devices Charging Station-I got a new charging station for Christmas and itā€™s been one of my new favorite things. First, I love that you can charge your phone, watch and airpods (if you have them) all in one spot. My cords would constantly be getting tangled and itā€™s much more convenient to have everything charging in the area. I also love the white color (it matches my room and is very sleek). Lastly, I appreciate how it doubles as a stand for my phone too. This has been a practical and fun Christmas gift.

Thatā€™s just a look into a few things Iā€™m loving this week. I Hope you have a wonderful, winter weekend. See you on Wednesday!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #21

Hey everyone! Happy Friday! Itā€™s the LAST Friday of 2022 and what a year it has been. This past week has been fast and slow in the best ways. I got quality time with family, time lounging and relaxing and getting reset for the new year. Ready or not, 2023 is coming. Hereā€™s five things Iā€™m loving this week as I link up with Ā ErikaĀ andĀ AndreaĀ for another edition of Friday Favorites:

Christmas Treats-This week has been full of so many Christmas treats! From cookies, to popcorn, trail mix and more. Iā€™ve been trying to maintain balance, but itā€™s easier said than done. Iā€™m looking forward to restarting and getting back to healthier habits next year.

A look at some of my favorite treats.

Sauce Holder– I love sauces and condiments with my meals, especially when it comes to fast foods, like fries or nuggets. I got this super handy gadget for Christmas and canā€™t wait to use it in the car. A sauce holder for the road, such a fun, creative and useful concept. Love it! Iā€™ll report back after I use it.

Such a fun and practical gift.

Exploding Kittens– My siblings and I got this as a gift for Christmas and had so much fun playing this card game. Up to five people can play and itā€™s a fun game that doesnā€™t take too long to get through, plus itā€™s easy to learn so all ages can participate. Iā€™m looking forward to more board games nights in the winter months.Ā 

Something From Tiffanyā€™s– I have been wanting to watch this movie for a few weeks and finally watched it this past week. Itā€™s a cute rom-com that follows two couples when their packages from Tiffanyā€™s get switched and they end up meeting with hopes to exchange gifts, until they start to fall for each other. Thereā€™s a happy ending that will have you grinning from ear to ear.

Such a fun rom-com.

Christmas Decor– I know some people like to take their Christmas decorations the day after Christmas, while others keep it up until after New Yearā€™s, I am the latter. I love to keep up all the decorations for as long as possible. After all the hustle and bustle over the past six weeks, itā€™s so nice to be able to enjoy the decorations and sit by the tree all lit up, simply beautiful and magical.

Beautiful night by the tree.

Thatā€™s a look into life this past week. I hope you have a safe and relaxing New Yearā€™s weekend. 

See you in 2023 for a look at my New Yearā€™s Resolutions. Happy New Year!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #19

Hi everyone! 

Happy Friday! I can’t believe we are ONE week away from Christmas. I’ve been trying to soak up as much Christmas cheer as I can. This past week has been filled with mailing gifts, Christmas dates and holiday movies and I’m loving every second of it.

Here’s a few favorite things of mine this past week as I link up with with Erika and Andrea for another edition of Friday Favorites:

Gift Exchanges: I am so proud of myself for scheduling gift exchanges with friends and family before the month got away from me. Between dinner and lunch dates, I was able to spend one on one time with my friends, exchange gifts and catch up in between holiday commitments and it did wonders. One of the many instances where planning ahead pays off big time.

A little bit of Christmas cheer!

Ice Skating: Ice skating has become a winter favorite for me and over the past few weeks, I’ve been able to go a handful of times and have been loving getting back on the ice. Last week, I went skating with my boyfriend and we had the rink to ourselves with Christmas music playing…yes, I felt like I was in a hallmark movie and LOVED it. I’m looking forward to hitting the rink several more times through the winter months.

Daisy Jones and the Six First Look: If you have been following along this year on my blog then you know I’m on a Taylor Jenkins Reid’s kick. The first photos for Daisy Jones and the Six just came out a few weeks back and I’m so excited for more teasers and photos. The mini series comes out on March 3 and that is one thing getting me through a long winter.

Harry and Meghan Docu-series Part Two: Last week, I talked about part one of Harry and Meghan’s documentary series on Netflix coming out and this week, it’s all about part two. In between all the Christmas movies, I’ve been watching this mini-series and I have really found it enlightening, interesting, and true love story. My favorite part was all the little stories and behind the scenes photos and videos. I’ve really enjoyed seeing a different side of Harry Meghan than what we have seen in the media. This docu-series has me even more excited to read Harry’s book next month.

Nancy Thayer Christmas books: As I continue with my Christmas books, I read two great ones from Nancy Thayer. A Nantucket Christmas and An Island Christmas. Both stories take place in Nantucket over Christmas time and have themes of family drama, cozy Christmas vibes and happy endings. I really appreciated the attention to detail about the island of Nantucket and I ahve to admit after reading both of these books, it makes me want to travel to the island and experience it for myself.

Some of my Christmas reads so far!

That’s just a taste of life over the past week. My world has been work, family time, seeing friends, and all the Christmas cheer and I couldn’t ask for anything more. I hope you have a magical weekend full of Christmas cheer!

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 withĀ ErikaĀ andĀ 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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Fashion

Fall Outfit Round-Up

Hi guys! HappyWednesday. I hope your week is off to a great start.

Now that we are in the midst of fall, I thought it was time for a fall outfit roundup. To be honest, the weather has been fairly mild, so I still am wearing some summer clothes and dresses. Some mornings its really chilly but then by 3:00 in the afternoon, it’s 75 degrees, it makes planning for outfits very challenging.

I have a feeling the deeper we get into autumn, the more I will have to transition from lighter to darker colors. I am ready to welcome fall with open arms. I’m ready for layers, sweaters and all things cozy!

Hereā€™s two new looks, one for the office. One for a weekend or a day out and about.

Bright red for fall

This work dress is score from Amazon. I placed an order this summer and was really happy with all my purchases. To see some of my other Amazon successes, click here.

This red cotton dress is perfect for summer and fall. It’s affordable, easy to clean and great quality. It’s light enough for summer and the hot days, but a great transitional piece for changing seasons. I may even try and wear it in the winter with a blazer and tights.

I love the Peter Pan collar and the cut and style of the dress.

Overall, this was a major win for me!

If you are looking for a casual look out of the office, I have an option for you too.

A casual look

I went for a fall walk and train ride a few weeks back and it was the perfect time to break out some fall clothes. I got the top from J.Crew for Christmas and couldn’t wait to wear it. I love the detail in the collar and the puffed sleeves. It’s a classic look for spring and fall.

The vest is an oldie but a goodie. I got it from Francesca’s several years ago and it was a staple during my college years. It’s lightweight and perfect for the start of fall.

I paired the outfit with a pair of new leggings from Target. I’ve only worn them once, so the jury is still out on them, but I was pleased with the color and the comfort especially after walking all day. We will see how wear number two goes.

Lastly, I rounded the outfit off with a pair of shoe boot wedges from Payless. I wore them a lot in college but haven’t worn them a lot recently. I was happy they are still comfortable and durable.

Up-close of the top.

I will have plenty more outfits as the season goes on. This is just a start. I can’t wait for more fall weather and outfits. What are your favorite looks for this season?

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Fabulous living

Valentine’s Day Date Ideas

Hey friends! Happy Wednesday.

I hope your week is moving along well.

Valentineā€™s Day is such a bright spot in the cold month of February. It breaks up the long winter and who doesnā€™t like to celebrate love and kindness?!

Whether you are in a relationship or not, thereā€™s no such thing as spreading too much love.

Due to the pandemic, Valentineā€™s Day may look a little different to many, today, Iā€™m breaking down some fun Valentineā€™s Day date ideas that are low budget and fun at home.

For Long Distance Relationships:

Virtual Watch Party

This is such an easy and fun date activity if you are in a long-distance relationship or homebound due to Covid-19. Amazon Prime and Netflix both allow you to watch movies or tv show with someone at the same time and you can chat while watching. You can just send a link to who you are watching it with can watch and message at the same time. This makes watching a movie alone much more fun!Ā 

For an Activity:

Get Outdoors

Yes, itā€™s winter and cold, but if you are looking for a winter activity on a Sunday on Valentineā€™s Day doing an activity outside is another fun alternative. Whether itā€™s ice skating or going for a winter hike or for a sleigh ride, you can still get outside and enjoy the time in the fresh air.

For a Night at Home:

Dinner

If you donā€™t want to risk it and go out for dinner with a lot of people and Covid-19 concerns, then bring dinner into your home. Whether you are getting your favorite dinner for your go-to date spot or you do some of your own cooking, you can enjoy one on one time at home. Set it up with your best dishes and make it really special. Once dinner is done, you can enjoy a movie or your favorite board games.It makes a regular dinner memorable.

These are just a few fun Valentineā€™s Day date ideas, whether you are spending the day youā€™re your significant other, your best friends, or your familyā€¦the most important thing is to spread some love and tell the people in your life that you love them.

Happy Valentineā€™s Day friendsā€¦spread love today and every day.

XOXO

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Fabulous living

Bingeable TV Shows

Ahhh the carefree days of Summerā€¦no school work, a time for making money for most college students like myself, but most importantly R&R. Between all the working I love to relax and unwind by reading or catching up on my favorite tv shows or binge watching new shows. Here are my top five picks for bingeable tv shows and the service you can find them on.

Everyone loves a good laugh and The Office doesnā€™t disappoint. From Michael Scottā€™s antics, the relationship between Jim and Pam, and the days at a Paper Company, the laughs are endless. There are 9 seasons and episodes are less than 30 minutes. A perfect companion to watch while you are relaxing, doing a load of wash, or hanging out with friends. The Office can be found on Netflix.

A classic comedy about working in an office

Whether you have an interest in medicine, relationships, friendships, or navigating a new job, this is the show for you. Watch the epic love story between Meredith and Derek and see what it means to be someoneā€™s person. This drama has 14 seasons under its belt and is still going strong. Episodes range 43 minutes and there are plenty of twists and turns through the series. Greyā€™s Anatomy can be found on Netflix.

Whether you watch it for the medicine or the relationships, this show is for you,

So many good things about this show, from the relationships, special guest cameos, the many memories in that one apartment, but importantly, the friendships. Whether this the first time you are watching FRIENDS, or you are a super fan and know every line and know exactly what it means when someone says, ā€œWE WERE ON A BREAKā€! FRIENDS is the show for you. There are 10 seasons and episodes run for 21 minutes. You can watch this with your friends on Netflix.

Nothing better than watching Friends with friends!?

The New York trends continues but this time we are catching up with our favorite girlfriends. In honor of the 20th anniversary, this show is so iconic, from the fashion, the MANY boyfriends, the trips, but most importantly, the love of girlfriends. There were so many wonderful moments that made this show so special, from Carrieā€™s column becoming a book, the failed marriage between Charlotte and Trey, Samantha finally falling in love with Smith, Miranda being the first of the four to become a mother, and Mr. Big going all the way to Paris to tell Carrie she is the ONE. The show ran for 6 seasons and episodes are under a half hour. The show that never goes out of style can be found on Amazon Prime.

Who doesn’t love these girlfriends!?

Do you want to be a Gladiator in a Suit? Well, this is the show for you. Scandal follows the interworking of the government, from rigging presidential elections, fixing politicians problems, and affairs in the White House, Scandal keeps you on the edge of your seat until the last second. Each season is even better than the last. While Olivia Pope is taking care of everyone elseā€™s problems, who is taking care of her? Will she stand in the sun with Jake or go to Vermont with Fitz?! The 7 seasons wrapped up this past year and the 40-minute episodes will have you on the edge of a cliff. See what all the hype is about but binge watching this on Netflix.

The Fixer and Boss…Olivia Pope

Whenever summer is dragging, or you just want to curl up and relax try watching one of these shows to change up your routine. What shows are you currently binge watching?! Let me know in the comments below! Happy viewing!