Hi everyone! I hope you are having an enjoyable week.
As we make our way through July, my blog series about summer tastes and must haves continues.
Last week, I showed you how to make a super easy pasta salad that an be used for big gatherings or pre-made lunches. To check out my Pizza Pasta Salad check out my last post.
This week we are talking summer drinks.I drink water 99% of the time. I always have it with me whether I’m at my desk, on the go, or at home. In the summer, I do like to change up my drink choices for something a bit more fruity and fun.
Here’s my recipe for Sunrise Juice!
This drink can be served at any meal and just like the pizza pasta salad, you can tailor the portion to your liking.
Here’s what you need:
-Orange juice
-Sprite or 7 Up
-Pineapple Juice
-Lime Juice
-Strawberries to garnish You can serve this with alcohol but I prefer to drink it just with the juices.
Directions:
In a large glass or cup, mix equal parts or orange juice, sprite or 7 Up (whichever you prefer), pineapple juice and a squirt of lime juice.
Stir it together and add ice.
Add strawberries to garnish and to your mixture for an extra fruity pop. And there you have it, an easy and refreshing summer drink.
You can change out different fruit juices to your liking, but the orange and pineapple go very well together, and the lime juice and soda adds an extra kick.
Another shot of the drink
I like to enjoy this by the pool, when I’m reading or hanging out with friends.
This drink is fairly healthy, sweet and refreshing for the summer.
As we are talking about food and drinks for the summer, what your go-to’s for summer tastes?
Let me know in the comments below! Next week we will be talking about summer travel must haves. I can’t wait to be back here, same time, same place on Wednesday, until then, have a great week!
Happy Wednesday and happy July! I hope you all holiday weekend with family or friends. I always love celebrating our country along with family traditions of grilling, swimming and fireworks.
I’m starting a new series of posts over the next few weeks about everything summer as we make our way through the season. To kick off my series, we are talking summer foods!
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a pasta salad alongside chicken or a burger or just by itself. If you’re looking for a fun and crowd-pleasing pasta salad this is for you.
Here’s a look at how to make Pizza Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Here’s what you need
(The amount of ingredients you will need to use varies since you can alter how much you want to make. I often make enough for a few servings but you can add more or less based on how many people will be eating)
Pasta (I chose medium shells)
Mini Pepperoni
Mozzarella Cheese (balls or shredded-whichever is your favorite)
Cherry tomatoes
Basil
Oregano
Italian Dressing
Directions
1) Boil pasta and add salt
2) Refrigerate until pasta is cool
1) Add Italian dressing, basil and oregano to pasta
2) Add in cheese, pepperoni, and cherry tomatoes3) Refrigerates well-add fresh Italian dressing before serving again
You can alter add how much of each ingredient you want to use based on how you are feeling too. This can be served as a side with a larger meal or it can be enjoyed on its own. Either way, it’s a perfect Italian mix to add to your summer salads in the summer.
What’s your go-to recipe for summer salad?
Let me know in the comments below. Get ready because next week we are talking about summer drinks!
Happy Wednesday. I hope your week has been filled with sunshine, warm weather, and all the spring vibes (or something like that).
Today, I have a currently lined up for your reading. I know it’s a bit earlier in the month, but I have an extra special post set up for next week
Without further ado, here’s a look into what I’ve been up to this past month.
What I’m up to: I’ve been LOVING all the warm weather. Last week we had weather in the 70s all week long. I’ve been trying to get outside more after work, whether it’s for a walk or just to sit and read. I’ve also been enjoying making lighter and summery meals.
Seeing flowers and plants and trees in bloom brings a smile to my face.
A few weeks ago I made a lemon chicken sheet pan dinner which was so flavorful and easy. I got the recipe from Mix and Match Mama and I really enjoyed cooking it.
A look at my meal from a few weeks ago.
I also celebrated Mother’s Day with my family and enjoyed dinner with my family and a trip to the zoo.
A few shots of our trip to the zoo.
Such an array of colors.
I’ve also managed to enjoy some friend time over the past few weeks which was much needed.
What I’m wearing: I’m always on the look for work dresses and clothes. I often stop into stores like Marshall’s of TJ Maxx just to see if there’s ever new finds. I lucked out big time during my last time in finding affordable and fashionable clothes. As far as casual clothes, I’ve been able to break out some shorts and t-shirts which just makes me happy that warm weather is here and here to stay.
I also got a fresh trim for summer which was much needed!
What I’m reading: I finished Not A Happy Family and wow-what a good book. I couldn’t it down. I’m typically not a thriller lover but this was soooo good. A great mix of mystery and thriller and not too scary.
I’m currently reading, Paris is Always a Good Idea and it’s the opposite of Not A Happy Family, it’s light and fluffy and will make you want to travel. It’s such a good call for summer.
What I’m watching: I started and finished season 5 of Selling Sunset, it’s such a guilty pleasure, I started to watch it when it came out for the real estate, but now I watch for the drama. Haha!
On a more serious note, I watched The Anatomy of a Scandal and loved it. I finished it in one weekend. Another great cliffhanger mini series with a great cast.
What I’m Loving: ALL the WARM and SPRING weather. That’s all. I love being outside and enjoying ice cream and walks after work and not having to wear all the layers.
I even had my first hot dog grilling of the season which just gets me in the summer mode.
What Inspires Me: I’ve been planning a few fun summer plans and excursions and it’s making me excited for summer and adventures and more hikes and times with friends and family and maybe even a trip or two. I’ll be sharing my summer bucket list at the start of June!
I’ve already been to the beach once for a walk this summer and I can’t wait to head back more.
What I Accomplished: I enjoyed celebrating my mom for Mother’s Day at the beginning of the month and I had a few other special birthdays too. We enjoyed a fun family meal to celebrate my mom.
The process
The finished product
I still have a few graduations and my birthday to celebrate so I’m excited for those in the coming weeks.
Goals from Last Month: I’ve been really good at seeing friends consistently who live in town and making time for friends out of town. I also got a lot of start of spring/summer must dos done like different odds and ends that feels good to start a new month on the right foot. I also took a day trip with my mom and brother to the National Comedy Center in Jamestown which was so fun and I learned a lot too.
A look at the iconic I Love Lucy set.
And some scripts from The Office.
Goals for Next Month: I’m looking forward to starting my summer bucket list and enjoying time outside with my family. I have a graduation and some day trips planned to see friends so I’m looking forward to that. I’m also excited to spend time with friends and family and enjoy more time grilling and swimming and trying to take it slow? I know, easier said than done. Overall, I’m just really excited for summer!
Fresh lemonade and a good book. The perfect combo!
That’s a look at my life today. Lots of family time, time outdoors and good food. How’s life been looking for you the past month? Let me know.
Happy Wednesday. We are at the end of another month, I don’t know about you, but February has flown by for me. The good news is that we are slowly but surely, making our way through winter and springtime is getting closer too. Here’s a look at what I’ve been up to this past month.
What I’m up to: Outside of work, I’ve been enjoying time at home, staying cozy and doing lots of cooking, from soups, and baking cookies for Valentine’s Day. I enjoyed watching the Super Bowl with family and celebrating Valentine’s Day. This past month has been a mix of a little bit of everything.
I made homemade Chicken Noodle Soup.
I also made homemade Margarita Chicken Soup from one of my favorite bloggers, Mix and Match Mama!
What I’m wearing: All. The. Layers. It has been cold, so I have been wearing lots of long sleeve dresses for work or blazers with pants. On days off, I’ve been going for more of the comfortable route with leggings or jeans and then sweaters. Here’s a simple look I wore around Valentine’s Day, I kept it simple with black leggings and a baggy sweater, both from Aerie. I kept my jewelry also simple, wearing pink earrings and delicate necklace and pink bow to tie it all together.
Staying cozy and inside most of the month of February.
What I’m reading: I finished Beach Read by Emily Henry at the end of January, it was a fun read to take my mind off of snow and onto summery days. I’m currently re-reading Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and I love reading it again. I am always finding new things that I missed when I’ve read it in the past.
What I’m Watching: All of the Olympics. I love that there’s something always on to watch. Even if it’s for a few minutes, you can find a new sport to get excited about. I’ve also been watching Downton Abbey and I’ve been loving it. It’s so easy to get lost in the show and watch episode to episode. I just started season 2 and I’m obsessed.
What I’m Loving: I’ve been loving all the heart shaped and Valentine’s Day décor for the past month. I’m also loving the fact of hibernating, if you will. It’s nice to have a lighter calendar with not as much things going on during the winter. It’s been good to give myself extra breathing room by not having a jam packed schedule.
Valentine’s Day spread at home.
There’s nothing like celebrating love.
What Inspires Me: I’ve been inspired by doing my baking and cooking at home. I did a lot of cooking at the start of 2021 and I want to get back into more cooking and trying new recipes this year.
Baking cookies for the holidays was a bright spot this past month.
What I accomplished: I’ve really enjoying the slow and steady month. It’s been nice to hang out at home more and have a more low-key month. There are times when I’m super busy and slammed so it’s nice to have some calmer months thrown in there.
My pup Milton and I staying warm and inside this past month.
Goals Accomplished from Last Month I enjoyed a “Me Date”! I took some time for a self-care spa night at home and it was just what I needed before the start of a busy week. I’m always looking for ways to carve even a few minutes of downtime for myself outside of the busy day to day lives. It doesn’t have to be a big event, but just making some extra time for yourself once a month or week by doing something small will make a big difference.
Goals for the New Month: I want to get outside more and get some fresh air and exercise as hopefully the weather gets warmer. I’ve tried to get outside this past month but the bitter cold temperatures makes it a bit tricky to enjoy a walk in single digits. I got out ice skating a few times and I’m hoping to do it more in the next month.
I got to ice skate for a story for work and loved every moment.
That’s a look into my life this past month. There’s nothing too exciting, lots of time at home with family. I’ve been reading and watching shows and cooking on days off. I’m really loving where I’m at right now in life. Now that I’ve shared about my past month, tell me about yours! How’s your month been?
How was your first month of 2022? For me, this month seemed to drag. I got a lot done at the beginning of the month as I got back into my routines and rhythms after the holidays. But then came the snow and the cold and high Covid cases, so I really hunkered down. I’m looking forward to the warmer days and lower case numbers but until then, I’m making the most of warm days inside, cozy clothes and trying to get fresh air and go on walks when I can.
Here’s a look into the first month of 2022!
What I’m up to: I have been doing lots of cleaning, decluttering, and organizing. This month has been all about organizing my life mentally and physically. I’ve been using my planner more for short and long term thoughts and projects. I have also been cleaning out closets, cars, drawers, and more getting things refreshed for the new year. I even have been making trips to donate things which makes me feel great. Besides cleaning, I’ve been all about getting back into routines from last year and adding some new habits in my daily life.
I’ve also been doing a lot of baking to cope with the cold days.
What I’m wearing: It has been cold here. Temperatures in the single digits with lots of wind. For work, it has been lots of pants and warm sweaters or blouses and blazers since you never know where you may end up. Plus, you can never have too many layers. For my off-days, I have been enjoying leggings, boots, big sweaters, and heavy coats for running around or just hanging around the house.
What I’m reading: New year, new books! I started Januray off by reading an inside look at Grey’s Anatomy. As an avid fan of the show, I loved this book and found it super interesting. Then I also read, this book about home design and styling. Another fabulous read that will give you lots of inspiration for interior and exterior design.
What I’m Watching: I have been enjoying the return of This is Us especially since its in its final season. I also really have been loving Tidying up with Marie Kondo on Netflix. I know I am late to the party but I love it.
What I’m Loving: I love the fresh start of the new year. We have seen a lot of snow fall and there’s nothing better than enjoying a warm drink like tea or hot coco and having a smooth start to the day. I have also been enjoying lighting the fire place at the end of a long day.
Nothing better than a cozy morning and a warm drink
What Inspires Me: I am always inspired my setting New Year’s Resolutions and Goals. I am inspired by fresh starts and new beginnings. There’s no better feeling than lighting a new candle, a clean desk and fresh planner to kick off the new year. I also am excited to get back into my new routines and establish some new ones too.
I went on a coffee date with a friend and loved the wallpaper. So cute!
What I accomplished: I had a very successful Christmas with my immediate family and I got to see some extended family too. I got enjoy some family time and do some activities too. Although, I had to work, I’m still very grateful that I got to see my family and still carry on holiday traditions.
Going skiing with my family was a fun activity over Christmas
We also went to see the Van Gogh exhibit around Christmas. It was so beautiful and interesting.
Goals Accomplished from Last Month This past month was all about starting the year on the right foot and I did that. I was thrilled to get my new Simplified planner all set up. I also started my new year’s goals and resolutions which I’m very pleased with how they are going. It’s those little things every day that make a huge difference. I can’t wait to see what this year has in store an how I can learn and grow.
New year, new planner set-up.
Goals for the New Month: Next month, I want to do my best to get outside more, especially for walks when I can. My friend Sydney gave me the idea to schedule time for “Me Dates”, essentially it’s about carving out time to do something for you, whether it’s going to a coffee shop to read a book, taking yourself to a movie or going for a solo walk, it’s all about taking time for yourself. I want to make that a priotity for myself this year. I also am looking forward to celebrating love with Valentine’s Day next month.
That’s a look into my life today. How has 2022 been treating you?
Hey guys! Happy December…the countdown is on until Christmas! I hope you are gearing up for the holiday season!
Quick check in time…How are you doing? Got everything wrapped? Checking off all those holiday traditions? Feeling overwhelmed with everything you still have to do? We’ve all been there…while it may seem like this season will never end, it will. In the meantime, enjoy every moment and soak up all the moments, the big ones (like decorating the tree) or the little ones like looking at Christmas lights.
Onto today’s post, can you believe that we are up to two years of Currently?! This has been such a fun monthly post, not only does it keep you updated on my life but it also puts in perspective everything I’ve done in 30 days or so…without further ado, here’s this month’s Currently.
What I’m up to: ALL the Christmas fun and cheer. From skating, to watching Christmas movies, listening to Christmas music at every opportunity, baking cookies and shopping and wrapping this month has been about enjoying all the Christmas fun!
There’s Christmas cheer all over the house.
We got our tree earlier in the month and it was perfect tree cutting weather.
What I’m wearing: Besides work clothes, I’ve been getting in the Christmas spirit by wearing Christmas sweaters, some cute graphic shirts and of course, Christmas socks!!! I can’t get enough of Christmas socks!
What I’m reading: I finished reading “All the Light We Cannot See”, it was definitely a heavier read but it was so well done. This month I have been reading all the Christmas books. I read “A Shoe Addict’s Christmas”, which was super cute. I then read “Pride and Prejudice and Mistletoe”, this was the perfect mix of Christmas and a beautiful tribute to Jane Austen. I’m currently reading “The Mistletoe Secret” by Richard Paul Evans, I read his series, “The Walk” during the pandemic and loved it, so I’m very excited to read this one too.
What I’m Watching: Besides watching classic Christmas movies and some Hallmark ones too. I have also been watching Selling Sunset on Netflix and like many other women out there, I’ve been watching “And Just Like That”…the first two episodes were so beautiful and so poignant, but broke my heart. I can’t wait to see what else this season has in store. If you have watched them, what are your thoughts on the shows?
What I’m Loving: Christmas spirit all day, every day! I love this time of year, there’s nothing better than having a candle lit, while wrapping presents and watching Christmas presents. Plus, making treats hasn’t been bad either. I made some Christmas bark this year and it was so good. It’s super easy to make and its’s easy to save and store. Here’s the recipe I used, thank you Mix and Match Mama!
Look at all this delicious Christmas bark!
What Inspires Me: The holiday season puts me in the best mood. I decorated my room at the end of last month and whenever I put on my tree and light a candle, I’m automatically put in the Christmas spirit. I also can’t wait to spend time with family and continue our holiday traditions. I went skating this month and had the best time.
Skating in the city
Buffalo was beautiful.
What I accomplished: I’ve been doing a great job at being intentional and present during the holiday season. From the gift buying to the family time and holiday traditions. I wish this season was longer. Even enjoying a hot coco and cookie while driving back from ice skating made me so happy.
Besides homemade cookies, I can’t resist some Pillsbury cookies too!
Even the shopping malls are all decorated
Goals Accomplished from Last Month I got all my Christmas shopping done by my deadline and I got almost all my gifts sent out or wrapped. It was a huge accomplishment! I love all the gift giving but it can be a lot to get everything organized. I don’t know how parents do it, they are the real super heroes during the holiday season!
My presents for others all wrapped up under my tree.
Goals for the New Month: Kick off 2022 with my New Year’s Resolutions. I also can’t wait to break out my new Simplified planner and start getting ready for the next. As much as I hate to see the holidays come to an end, there’s nothing quite like a fresh start.
That’s a look into my life this past month, lots of holiday fun and traditions. How are you spending the last few weeks of this year?
I always like to make a new treat/ snack/ meal every season. At the start of the year I was on a roll with cooking one meal a week, I have to admit, I have been slipping these past few months. I’m hoping to do more cooking these next few months as fall and winter settle in. I did manage to make a new fall dessert a few weeks back with my mom. Here’s a tasty recipe for cold days inside. This is a super simple, three ingredient dessert that’s perfect for any get together.
Cake Balls
Ingredients:
Cake mix (baked or pre-made)
Icing
Melting chocolate
Garnishes (sprinkles, chocolate chips, etc.)
Directions:
Make cake (I used chocolate for this recipe, but any flavor works. I just made a cake from the box with eggs, water and oil. )
Once cake is baked, let it cool.
Cake is done!
3. Break apart cake until it’s all broken up.
Cake broken apart
4. Combine icing (I used chocolate) and cake and mix together.
The new mixture
5. Roll cake mix into balls and then place in freezer for 30 minutes.
The cake balls ready to go in the freezer
6. Once they were done in the freezer, I melted chocolate and dipped the cake balls in to completely cover them. It can get messy, so I would reccommend using a spoon to dip them.
The cake balls all dipped in chocolate
7. The chocolate dries fast, so make sure you dip them fast and add garnishes, whether it’s sprinkles or chocolate chips or nuts.
The finished product. I had some leftover melting chocolate so I made some dip pretzels. Yum!
Enjoy your dessert! You can freeze leftovers and enjoy at a later date.
Up close of the dessert
This is just a fun and easy dessert that I saw on Pinterest and wanted to try for myself. It was easy to make and tasty and was a great crowd pleaser. What fall recipes have you been making?
Happy Wednesday! We made it to the end of March! This month flew by. I can’t believe next weekend is Easter!! Spring is definitely in full swing and by full swing I mean, some days are warm and sunny in the 50s and other days it is cold and rainy. If that doesn’t describe spring I don’t know what does. Haha! As another month comes to a close, it’s time for another dose of currently. Grab your coffee or tea (iced or hot) and let’s settle in.
What I’m up to: This month has been a mixture of work, spending time outside and enjoying hobbies outside of work, from reading, to cooking and seeing friends! Also, lots of family time…my favorite!
What I’m wearing: I am bringing out more pastel and spring colors! Yay!! Everything from blues to pinks and greens or at least trying too! Haha! I wear a lot of black…no secret there and I’m finally looking forward to putting it away for brighter days and colors ahead. The tricky part about spring is jackets! I am always cold, literally it could be 65 degrees out and I would still need a jacket haha. I always have a jacket with me but it always depends on how thick it is. Can I go lighter or do I have to have a warmer one? I am counting down the days until I can do a heavy duty cleaning of all my winter jackets…fingers crossed it’s coming up. Also, the fact I have been able to wear sneakers or converse while I have been out and about is a huge game changer!
Been trying to incorporate more spring colors in my wardrobe.
What I’m reading: I have been doing a lot of reading lately. I am reading a little bit every day. Here’s a recap of some of my recent books. God’s Behaving Badly by Marie Phllips , we read this book for our book club in February, it was a mix of Greek mythology with a modern twist.
Our March book was The First Phone Call From Heaven by Mitch Albom, this is a faith based book about people who receive phone calls from loved ones from heaven. Is it God or is it someone else.
This past month was a great book month because I also wrapped up, 52 Small Changes by Brett Blumenthal. This can be read at once or one day at a time about big and small ways to change your life.
What I’m Watching: I watched Firefly Lane last month which was good. It’s a Netflix mini series about two women and their friendship from young girls to grown women. This past month, many of my favorite shows came back, hello This is Us,Grey’s Anatomy, A Million Little Things, so those have been keeping me busy. I also have been watching a lot of movies. Some people may love their sports season, but your girl loves her awards show season. I have been watching a lot of movies nominated for awards which has been super fun!
What I’m Loving: I did a post about this a few weeks back, to read it, click here, but I have been loving all my new hobbies and activities outside of work. Now, that it’s finally warming up, I t’s been so nice to be outside whether it’s for a walk or reading or even spring cleaning. I’ve already been on a few zoo trips, near and far which has been fun! I can’t wait to be outside more. You don’t realize how much you miss the sunshine and warm weather until it’s gone.
The weather was so nice, a trip to the zoo was necessary!
What Inspires Me: I’m inspired by spring!!! There’s a sense of hope and promise and new beginnings in the air. I can’t wait to pick fresh flowers, go outside for lunches or dinners. I am also looking forward to changing out my wardrobe and just sprucing things up for the news season.
What I accomplished: I’ve been really happy with my new hobbies, from reading and cooking. It’s been such a fun and creative outlet. Plus, I’m really happy with some of my recent pieces at work.
My latest dish…chicken and risotto.
Goals Accomplished from Last Month I got so much quality friends and family time in during the last month. Between walks, book clubs and coffee dates. I also spent a lot of time with family after work between dinners and movie nights. With summer right around the corner, I can’t wait for nights spent by the pool or grilling.
Goals for the New Month: This month I want to be outside for as much as I can whether it’s with outdoor projects or just walks. Easter is next week, even though I’ll be working, I’m looking forward to celebrating the holiday before and after work with my family. Something else I am looking forward is clearing off my schedule more. As much as I like being busy, I am looking forward to some open time in my schedule.
That’s a look into my life the past month. Lots of hobbies, friends, family time and work. Not too exciting, but we are keeping it real. Have a great week ahead!
It’s warm and sunny out, we are officially in the spring season! There’s a sense of hope every day as we get closer and closer to summer and brighter days ahead.
One of my goals for 2021 was to have more balance in my life and even though it’s only March, I’m so proud for how far I have come this year.
Last year, between starting a new job (one that I love but that can be unpredictable) and the pandemic. I felt rundown by the end of the year and I was looking for new outlets for creativity and hobbies and I have found that these past few months.
I am so happy where I am in terms of my work life and personal life especially when it comes to hobbies and activities outside of work.
I have added a few hobbies to the mix and it has made my life much more fulfilling.
A fun and productive activity that I have gotten into is cooking! I love to bake and cook, but I don’t always have the opportunity to bake or cook. This year, one of my goals was to cook one new meal a week. It’s a way for me to practice my cooking skills and I get to see my hard work payoff with a meal. I love cooking for my family, it’s a small way for me to give back to my family as a thank you for all the things they do for me. I have made soups, and sandwiches, pastas, and many more different dishes. Not every dish is a winner but I love being able to try new things and learn as I go. Cooking has been a great creative outlet for me this year and I know the things I’m learning now will help me greatly down the line.
My latest dish…spicy shrimp and pasta
One of my other goals was to be more consistent with friends. Thanks to my book club, I am talking to some of my best friends from high school every week over facetime since we all live in different places. We talk about the books we are reading, we talk about how our work is going and what’s new. It so fun to consistently talk and catch up. Also, this helps so much with my goal to read every day. Whether it’s a chapter of a book or 30 mins of reading, I am accomplishing my goal of reading every single day and I absolutely love it. There is nothing better than books and good friends.
Book Club!
Speaking of friends, I have started to go on weekly coffee dates and walks with one of my childhood friends. Every week for about a month now, we have been getting coffee from local shops and then going for a walk or browsing little shops or stores. We haven’t seen each other consistently for 5 years! It’s been soooo fun to catch up consistently.
These three outlets have brought me so much joy! From learning new cooking skills and saving them for future use, or reading a lot more and being able to share that love of reading with friends or just getting outside and supporting local places with childhood friends. It’s amazing how much these little or mundane things bring so much joy and purpose into my life!
What are some things you do or have done to make your life more fulfilling this past year?
Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! This past month was packed and I can’t wait to update you all with all the new things going on.
What I’m up to: This past month has been busier for work, I just finished a big project which was happy to get it done and see the end result. It’s been a cold month, so I have spent a lot of time inside, watching tv and doing lots of reading and doing some projects around the house as well as catching up with friends too!
My finished work project
What I’m wearing: It all depends on how bad the weather is. If it’s super cold, then it’s pants and sweaters and lots of layers. If it’s warmer, and by warmer, I mean above 30 degrees, then I brave the weather with a dress and tights. On days off, it’s a lot of leggings and hoodies or sweaters.
What I’m reading: I have been doing so well with my reading this year. I have read 5 books so far. I keep a running list of books of my story called 2021 Books. If you are looking for new books to read this is a starting spot. I also have been doing a book club with my two high school friends, Maddie and Ryan, we have been making our way through a different book each month. We just finished Pride by Ibi Zoboi, which is a modern twist of Pride and Prejudice. It’s been so fun to read new books and share them with friends too!
I have also read, Make Room for What You Love by Melissa Michaels, it’s a book about organizing your home, keeping it clean and establishing new routines too. I already do many of the practices in the book, but it was still fun to learn new things.
Another book I read was, Traveling Light by Max Lucado. It broke down Psalm 23, “The Lord is my Shepherd” and had guided meditations and stories to go alongside them. Stay tuned for what I’m reading this month.
What I’m Watching: I finished Virgin River which was a lighter show to watch. It was nice to watch something that didn’t require my attention the full time.
I have been watching some movies here and there. I just started a new series, Lupin, on Netflix. If you are looking for mystery, suspense with lots of twists and turns, this is the show for you.
What I’m Loving: I’m loving reconnecting with old friends. This past month, I have gotten coffee with lifelong friends, I’ve been staying close with high school friends thanks to our book club, I have also stayed close with college friends with monthly facetime dates. Staying consistent with friends has been a new year’s resolution and I’m happy to report that I’m doing very well with it so far this year.
What Inspires Me: I’m inspired by food, not trying to be funny, but I have been doing a lot of cooking and have loved finding new recipes and trying them out. I have made soups, pastas, chicken dishes, and more. Every time I try something new, I love the sense of accomplishment with cooking and trying something new. My Let’s Get Cooking Posts has all the recipes there.
My latest pasta and shrimp recipe
What I accomplished: My work schedule has changed a bit, so I had to get adjusted to a new routine. One thing I really like about it is getting more family time. It’s the little things like that make the cold and gloomy days filled with sunshine. I also have really enjoyed getting started with my new year’s resolutions too!
Goals Accomplished from Last Month Last month was all about establishing new routines, I added some new rhythms in my daily schedule, and I am loving the results I’m seeing so far. By adding more reading and friend time, it has made me more well-rounded and lead a more balanced life. I also wanted to start cooking more and I have found a real passion and love for it. I can’t wait to try new recipes.
Baking on days off
Goals for the New Month: I know it’s still cold outside, but I want to make a point more to get outside and get more fresh air. I am also looking for a new project to tackle, I’m not sure what it will be yet, but I love getting creative with different projects.
