Tag: books

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #38

Hi everyone! Happy Friday! I know it’s only mid-April but I am so ready for summer. Over the past few weeks, I’ve gotten to enjoy sunshine, 70 degrees, and all the clear skies. I even have indulged in ice cream on a few nights too. I know it’s not here to last, but I am soaking up as much as I can. I’m currently working on this post outside and it’s such a tease for summer.

Beautiful spring weather!

It was so hard to narrow down today’s Friday Favorites because I had so many things on my mind. But I think this is a good mix of things to read, watch and enjoy this week. Here’s this week’s edition of Friday Favorites as I link up with Erika and Andrea!

The Best Years of Your Life– This book started out slow, but once it picked up, I couldn’t put it down. It’s told by the three main characters, a married couple and their college-aged daughter. Each character is going through different trials and tribulations and has their own secrets that they are dealing with. You can find themes of drama, relationships, family, honesty and integrity. It’s one of those books that will stick with you after you finish it. Another bonus is that the author is from my community-such a small world!

Simplified Spring Launch!-Emily Ley and her team at Simplified revealed their products and covers last week and they went on sale on Wednesday! All I can say is wow! What a collection! Their academic planners go on sale in the spring and their yearly planners go on sale in the fall. I’m a yearly girl, so I will buy my planner in the fall, but I already have my eyes on some new products too! If you like organization and desk and office supplies, you have to see what they have in stock. This is my pick for this year!

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Season 5– The new and final season of the Marvelous Mrs. Maisel returned last Friday! So far, a handful of episodes are available. I am really into the season and i don’t want it to end. There was a lot of shock after the first episode, you can read about it here if you want to learn more, but be warned, the article contains spoilers! I always look forward to Fridays when the new episodes drop and I can’t wait to see how everything wraps up. 

James Corden and the Kardashians– If you are a fan of the Late Night Show with James Corden or the Kardashian’s, you have to check out this video. Corden fills in as their assistants for the day and the end result is too funny! This is guaranteed a laugh for you.

New Library Books– After reading some great books, I couldn’t wait to head to the library for some new reads and my recent haul didn’t disappoint. I picked up a mix of rom-com, drama, and some that have been on my read list for a while. I can’t wait to share some reviews soon!

Well there you have it, that’s a look into what I have been loving this week. I hope you found something that you can love too! I hope you have a wonderful weekend filled with sushine and spring fun!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #37

Happy Friday Friends! It feels like Springtime here! The sun is out longer, I’m not wearing layers upon layers when I head out the door and flowers are starting to bloom. I love this time of year!

First signs of spring

As we make out way into another spring weekend, I’m sharing some of my favorite things with you from the week as I link up with Erika and Andrea!

Easter Fun!

I know we are a week past Easter, but I wanted to share an easy recipe! We always make a traditional Easter Bunny cake! We use a box mix to make to circular cakes and then here’s how you get the bunny shape!

Bake your two cakes in two circular pans.
Take one cake and cut two angles to make the ears for the bunny face.
Use the other for the bow
Ice, decorate and enjoy!

Sea Salt Crackers– I picked up these crackers when I was out and was looking for a new flavor for my lunches. I love to pair these crackers with cheese, apples or salads. I love the consistency and flavor of the pita and sea salt. I am always on the hunt for new flavors and tastes and these check all the boxes. If you are looking for a new cracker, definitely check these out.

Rose Water and Ivy Wall Flower– As the seasons change, it was time for a new wall flower scent from Bath and Body Works. For spring , I’m using Rose Water and Ivy and I’ve really been enjoying it. I love the sweet and fresh smell it gives off. I also swapped out my plug-in for a new one with sleeker look. I’m excited to use this more in the coming weeks.

Greenwich Park– My co-worker shared Greenwich Park by Katherine Faulkner with me and I loved it, I finished it in less than a week! It’s the perfect mix of drama, thriller and mystery. The story is told from different perspectives of the characters. The book follows a story of a woman who meets a fellow first-time mom in a pre-natal class, the two women become friends until the new women has a hidden agenda and some secrets and connections to the protagonist and her friends and family. The book starts out fairly slow but picks up towards the middle and end, so if you re thinking about quitting, stay with it.

Emily Ley’s Podcast on Friends– I listen to Emily Ley’s Simplified podcast every week. She covers different topics about life, organizing, cooking, motherhood, finances along with guests every week. Last week, she released a podcast about friendships and the different kinds of friends. Her message was all about how there’s different friends for different parts of your life or seasons. This podcast really resonated with me, I definitely recommend the Simplified podcast for regular listening but also for this specific episode.

That’s a look into some of my favorite things from this week. I hope you have something fun planned for you this weekend! Happy Fri-yay!!!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #35


Hey guys! Happy Friday! We made it to the weekend and to the end of March! I can’t believe tomorrow is April, spring is flying by. 

Here’s a roundup of some of my favorite products, meals, and hobbies from the past week as I link up with Erika and Andrea!

Mary Kay Mint Lotion– I always love testing new beauty products. I got this Mint Bliss Energizing Lotion as a gift and I couldn’t wait to try it. Here’s some things that I love about this lotion. First, the smell is divine and so fresh, it provides a cooling sensation to your legs and feet. I also love the consistency of it, not too thick, but not too runny. It’s also great for dry skin which happens a lot in the winter.

Metal Straws– This year I have been doing my best to use more reusable products. From my reusable baggies to tupperware, but now I’m upping my game with my cups. I try to drink a lot of water every day and use a lot of reusable cups/water bottles and mugs. Many of the cups I use don’t have straws, so these reusable metal straws are a huge win! They fit perfect with most cups/thermoses, are easy to clean and I feel better that I’m doing my part to help the planet.

Chocolate Drizzle Popcorn– Most people in my family are huge popcorn fans and we have been trying different flavors and seasonings. We are currently loving this chocolate sea salt popcorn. It’s our own recipe, simply pop popcorn, (I typically do a cup of popcorn), melt chocolate chips (about ½ a cup) and then drizzle chocolate over the popcorn on a large tray. Add a pinch of salt over the chocolate and popcorn mixture and let it harden, I typically dry for about an hour or two and then serve! So tasty and a perfect mix of sweet and salty.

Lemon Poppyseed Muffins– I know I cheated with this box recipe, but I saw this at the store and couldn’t resist by trying them. They were the perfect mix of sweet and flavorful. I love the added taste of the poppyseeds. I know they are meant to be enjoyed as a breakfast treat but I think they could work just as well as a dessert. 

Love and Other Words– I am always reading and I just finished this book, Love and Other Words and loved it. It goes back and forth between the past and present with two best friends who reunite after almost a decade apart. Themes of friendship, love, and books are woven through the book. As a book lover myself, I loved all the references to books and getting lost in a story. My friend Sydney gifted me this book and I’m so glad she did. I’ll defintely be reading more Christina Lauren books.

That’s a look at some of my favorite things from this past week. Some products, some food and a good book. What more could you ask for? I hope you have a great first weekend of April!

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Currently

Currently #39

Hello all! Happy Wednesday and Happy end of March! I wish this month felt like more like spring, but it felt more like winter. To put it in perspective, we got more snow in March than in February and we didn’t even get that much snow.

A look at March in terms of weather!

That being said, I am ready to welcome spring with open arms. The sun has been out more, the days are longer, it’s just good vibes all around. Here’s a look into life recently.

What I’ve Been Up To: This month has flown by with a mix of slow days and busy weeks. This month, I’ve ventured out for the first local zoo trip of the year. I’ve also tried some new recipes, caught up with friends for dinners or long overdue facetime calls and enjoyed some time outdoors, even in the chilly weather. I’m looking forward to fewer layers, sneakers instead of boots for walks, and not heating up my car in the mornings in April, or I’m at least hoping.

First Zoo trip of the year
Weekend drives and breakfast sandwiches

What I’m Wearing: I have been making it a point to wear brighter colors to channel my inner spring even on the colder days. I got this soft green dress from Calvin Klein from Marshall’s and it’s already been a favorite of mine this year. I love the sleeves and the color, a great combo for Spring.

Green for Spring!

I’ve also been pairing neutrals with brighter colors for work, like a pink sweater with a tan skirt. It breaks up the neutral colors and makes you get in the spring spirit.

A spring skirt and top combo
Green has been in heavy rotation this month!

What I’m Reading: I’ve been reading lots of books over the past few weeks as I spend more time indoors. 

Here’s what I have been enjoying.

Carrie Soto is Back– I finished Carrie Soto is Back and enjoyed it more than I thought. It follows the story of a tennis player looking to return to the court to claim her title as champion. I learned a lot about tennis, endurance, and hard work. I really appreciated the relationship between Carrie and her father. There’s a lot about female empowerment, family ties, and some romance too. It’s a bit different than some of TJR’s other books, but I really enjoyed it.

It Ends with Us– I started another Colleen Hoover book. It Ends with Us is a serious drama which follows the story of a young woman who falls in love with a neurosurgeon, he seems like the perfect catch, but there’s more that meets the eye. This also comes as her first love comes back in her life. Will she choose her new love or first love? You will have to read to find out. In more good news, a few months ago, it was announced that it was being made into a movie with Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. I can’t wait to watch.

What I’m Watching: A lot of shows that I follow released new seasons so I’ve been catching up on some of my favorite shows. I’m caught up on the new season of YOU, which was filled with murder, mayhem, mystery and of course cliffhangers.

I’ve also watched Daisy Jones and the Six on Amazon Prime which I really loved. From the music, to the character and plot lines, I think they did a great job going from the book to the screen. I was so sad when it was over, but was so satisfied with the ending, even with some changes.

The cherry on top was having the new season of Ted Lasso come out. I really enjoyed the first two seasons and have been loving season 3 so far. I’m so glad the new season is back! You can catch that on Apple TV.

What Inspires Me: I’ve been inspired by lots of cooking and baking. I’ve been trying to bake or cook something every week, I’ve mostly been aiming for new recipes but have worked to perfect some family favorites. Here’s a look at some of my favorites from this past month.

One pan chicken, sausage, potatoes and veggies.
Blueberry muffins
Cinnamon roll bars
Rice Krispy Treats
Chocolate drizzle sea salt popcorn
Taco soup!

What I Accomplished: This month has been so productive from getting yearly check-ups done, hair cuts, tackling big work projects, and catching up with friends who were home on spring breaks from university programs. I also got some quality family time in with both of my brothers home on Spring Break. It’s been a packed full, but such a good month.

Fresh cut for Spring
Hot cocoa and early spring drives.

Goals from Last Month: This past month, I wanted to do my best at creating memories both indoors and outdoors. I celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with our community parade.

St. Patrick’s Day parade in town

I enjoyed Maple Fest in our community, by heading to local sugar houses and enjoying lots of maple treats and of course, syrup!

Learning the process
Successful maple fest

I also went to see a performance of Riverdance. I tried to make the most of the month and I think I succeeded.

Time spent cozied up with my favorite for-legged friends!

Goals for this Month: I can’t wait to enjoy all things Spring, from Easter, to fresh flowers, outdoor walks and kicking off my Spring Bucket list. I’m so excited for the new season and month and everything it brings.

Goodbye Winter..hello Spring!

That’s a look into life recently. Lots of indoor time between reading and catching up on shows. Some time outdoors with walks with pups and friends and trying new things, like recipes.

Nights have been spent by the fire

Tell me: what’s something you’ve enjoyed and savored over the past month? Let me know in the comments below!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #34

Hey Guys! We made it to Friday! I don’t know about you, but I am ready for SPRING. I’m ready to say goodbye to the snow and hello to fresh blooms. As we wait for spring, here’s some favorite things I’ve been loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea.

Carrie Soto is Back– My Taylor Jenkins Reid kick has not slowed down. I finished Carrie Soto is Back and enjoyed it more than I thought. It follows the story of a tennis player looking to return to the court to claim her title as champion. I learned a lot about tennis, endurance, and hard work. I really appreciated the relationship between Carrie and her father. There’s a lot about female empowerment, family ties, and some romance too. It’s a bit different than some of TJR’s other books, but I really enjoyed it.

A Path to Well-Being: Embrace Silence for Stronger Mindfulness– I came across this article and was immediately intrigued. I have been practicing mindfulness for a few years now in the morning and at night. I always try to start and end my day with some quiet time. This article shines light on the importance of mindfulness and meditation. Definitely a fascinating article.

Flatbread crackers-I am always on the hunt for different crackers or snacks. I found these everything flatbread crackers from Target and fell in love with them. They go great with dips, sauces, sliced fruits or veggies. Plus, everything bagel seasoning is the perfect extra flavor.

Hair Thickening Spray-I am currently on a mission to use products that I have on my shelf instead of buying new. I have really been loving this hair thickening spray. I apply it after the shower and it leaves my hair feeling thicker and it adds volume. I got it from Target and have been happy with the results so far. 

Rice Krispy Treats– I have been craving some homemade treats and the cold weather was the perfect excuse for some Rice Krispy Treats. This was the recipe I used and it turned out great. The sweet treats didn’t last long, they went fast and that’s when you know you made a good batch. 

I hope you find something that brought you joy to you this past week. Depending on when you read this, I’ll either be watching Daisy Jones and the Six or have finished it already. For those watching, what are your thoughts? Let me know in the comments below!

Have a great weekend and fingers crossed spring comes soon!

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Let's Look

Let’s Look: Amazon Purchases

Hi all! Happy Wednesday! I hope your March is going smoothly and you start to see the beginnings of SPRING! We’ve had a mild winter so far, but I’m already craving the sunshine and 50 degree temperatures. 

Today I’m linking up with Erika and Shay for this month’s edition of Let’s Look. Every month, whoever links up gives you a look into a different aspect of their lives.

This month it’s about all time favorite Amazon purchases! I have to be honest, I use Amazon, but I do prefer to shop in stores. Amazon definitely makes it easier to order things you need in a pinch, but sometimes it’s fun to browse stores and the aisles. 

Here’s some fun things I’ve bought from Amazon recently. 

Photo Frame-Not a super fun purchase, but I needed it for a gift and rather than going to multiple craft stores to find this large frame, I went on my Amazon app, ordered the it and had it shipped to my house in two days. I could choose the color and size and it was inexpensive too. Just what I was looking for.

Jeep Key Fob Cover- One of my co-workers had this cover for her key fob and I loved how it looked (so sleek and sophisticated) so I wanted to get one for myself. This soft rubber key fob slips right over your key fob. A larger key ring also comes with it, so you can slip it right over onto your wallet or key ring. When I was looking on Amazon for it, I came across other covers for different cars and their keys. My mom loved how mine looked, so she ordered a cover for her key fob, (a different make and model than mine)! It wasn’t too expensive, but it was more of a fun purchase than a practical one. But every time I see it, does it bring me joy? You bet!

Charging Station for iPhone– I talked about this purchase in my Friday Favorites at the beginning of the year, but I wanted to bring it back again. I got this three in one charging station for my phone and apple watch. You can charge your AirPods too, but I don’t have AirPods, so I don’t use that feature. I love how I don’t have to worry about multiple cords and chargers anymore. it’s one plug and everything gets charged. I also have a pop socket/ring on the back of my phone, and you can still charge it with it on. The only catch is to make sure when you order it, it’s compatible for your version of your watch, phone and AirPods. It comes in multiple colors and it affordable and it saves you time and energy from searching for multiple cords.

Spare-No surprise here that I pre-ordered Spare and it arrived on the day it came out. The library is typically my go-to for books, but I do order books if I know I will want to re-read it or hold onto them. Amazon made it easy for me start reading right away!

Heatless Curling Rod Headband-This will be getting its own post soon enough, but like many others, I purchased this curling rod headband that gives your curls without using heat. I’ve tried it a handful of times and have been pleased with it, but still need to try it out different ways to really get the hang of it. But Amazon made it so easy to order it and try it within a few days.

That’s a look into some of the things I’ve ordered from Amazon, some fun, some basic, a little bit of everything. What are some of your favorite Amazon purchases? Let me know in the comments below!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #31

Hey guys! Happy Friday or Fri-YAY! I hope you had a great first full week of March! This week was filled with work, doctor’s appointments and getting outside as much as I could.

The second part of YOU season 4 came out yesterday, so I’ve been making my way through that and plan to watch more of it this weekend.

Even though, I’m working this weekend, I have some fun activities planned which I’m excited for. Today, I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea for this week’s Friday Favorites. Here’s some things I’m loving this week!

Where the Crawdads Live– I’m so late to the party on this movie, but I watched Where the Crawdads Live a few weeks back and really enjoyed the movie. I heard about the book, but never got around to reading it. The movie kept showing up on my recommended watch list on Netflix and decided to give it a try. I’m so glad I did! Without giving too much away, it tells the story of a young girl accused of murder in a small town. The girl is an outcast to the town, so many people have already set their minds on if she committed the crime or not. The movie goes back and forth between the past and present. I was worried it would be a little dark, but found the story to be enlightening, beautiful and a story about life and death. Now, I want to read the book!

Etsy Finds– I am a huge fan of Etsy and have purchased some recent gifts from small businesses. I love how unique every item is, how you can talk to the shop owners and the best part is that you are supporting local businesses. If you are looking for unique and timeless gifts, I would highly recommend Etsy! I’ve had such great luck for anniversary gifts, birthday gifts, just because gifts and Christmas gifts! Definitely recommend checking them out.

Blueberry Muffin Recipe-I’ve been on a baking and cooking streak and have been trying new recipes left and right. I tried this new blueberry recipe and loved it! The muffins were full of flavor and so moist. I made them for my family and they were a big hit. I have Pinterest to thank for this recipe.

The best blueberry muffins I’ve made!

Daisy Jones and the Six– Daisy Jones and the Six came out on Amazon Prime last week and I have been devouring this mini series. I couldn’t wait to watch the series after reading the book last summer. It’s been so cool to see the characters I fell in love with come to life on the screen. From the music to the costumes and casting, this has been such a fun show to watch. You don’t have to read the book to enjoy the show, but it’s been fun to compare the two. 

One True Loves trailer– Sticking with Taylor Jenkins Reid, the movie, One True Loves, based on her book is coming out soon and I’m so excited to see it. I really like the casting so far and the trailer looks really good and promising for a great movie. You know it’s a good Friday when you have two TJR favorites!

Whew, that was a jam-packed Friday Favorites and a good mix of things I’ve been loving. Tell me, what are some things you have been loving recently or looking forward to? Let me know in the comments below! Have a wonderful weekend!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #28

Hey guys! Happy Friday! I hope you had a great week full of Galetine’s Day celebrations or a Valentine’s Day date night. I know I enjoyed spreading a little extra love this week and indulging in some sweet treats too. I did some baking before Valentine’s Day and enjoyed sending cards and some baked goods to family and friends.

Some Valentine’s Day treats!

During the winter months, I spend more time indoors, getting projects done, catching up on books, shows or trying new recipes. That being said, if my Friday Favorites seem similar week to week, that’s why.

Here’s what I’ve been reading, watching, and enjoying for this week’s Friday Favorites as I like up with Erika and Andrea.

YOU-Part one of YOU season four came out last Thursday on Netflix and I finished it in two days, mind you, it was only five episodes, but once I started it was hard to stop. This new season takes Joe to a new country, with a new murder and a whole new cast of characters. There’s mystery, intrigue, romance and cliffhangers. I’m excited for part two to come out next month!

Your Place or Mine– In a complete opposite genre, Your Place or Mine came out last weekend and it was the perfect way to get into the Valentine’s Day spirit with this rom com. I loved the storyline, the characters, and the chemistry between Reese Witherspoon and Ashton Kutcher. If you haven’t seen this movie yet, you are missing out! Super cute!

Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Raspberry Hearts– I indulged in all the sugar and sweets from Valentine’s Day. From heart-shaped cupcakes to homemade sugar cookies, it was definitely a sweet holiday. I tried these new chocolates from Ghiradelli and loved them. The blend of fruit and chocolate was the perfect ratio. I always enjoy anything chocolate so when I saw a pairing with raspberry, I knew I had to try it and was so glad I did!

Colleen Hoover Books– Late to the book party here, but I finally got around to reading some of Colleen Hoover’s books. I have heard about her for years, and decided to try some of them after a friend lent me them. I recently read November 9 and Verity. November 9 was such a sweet love story with an incredible twist. Verity was definitely darker and there were many times I wanted to put it down, but I’m glad I finished it. The ending definitely raised more questions. I’ll be looking into more Hoover books. If you have read her other books, what ones are your favorite and what should I read next?

New Wall Flower Scent– I swapped out scents for my wall plug in from Bath and Body Works last week and have been loving this new scent. I went from Pine which was very Christmasy to Spearmint and Eucalyptus. This scent is so fresh and perfect for the winter months. There’s nothing better than a new scent for a new week. 

That’s just a look into life over the past few days. Tell me, how did you celebrate Galentine’s Day or Valentine’s Day? Have a great weekend!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #25

Hello all!

Happy Fri-yay!

I can’t believe we are at the end of January! I don’t know about you, but this month went by in the blink of an eye. Between getting back into my routines, checking some tedious projects off my to-do list and staying cozy by trying new recipes and reading, it’s been a good month. That being said, I can’t wait for February. I love Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, hearts, sweets and all the other things that come with the second month of the year. 

Now, let’s get to this week’s Friday Favorites. I have another fun round-up of things that I have loved this week and who knows maybe you will too. Here’s what I’m loving as I link up with Erika and Andrea.

Reusable Bags– You know you are an adult when you get excited about reusable bags. Haha! I got snack and sandwich reusable bags for Christmas, and they are such a practical gift that I use every day. I pack my lunch for work and typically that entails bringing in cut up veggies, fruit, cookies, crackers, trail mix etc. I was constantly using plastic baggies and realized how much of a waste it was, so I did some research and found a solution, reusable baggies. I got them for Christmas and love them. They seal really well and keep your food fresh. They also wash and dry well too. Plus, they are easy to store in lunch boxes, purses, or in a pantry. Definitely worth the investment and great for the environment.

So useful for food storage.

Laundry Sanitizer-Another adult favorite. We are in the midst of cold and flu season which means germs are spreading fast. I picked up this Laundry Sanitizer by Lysol and have been using it when I do laundry, especially with items that may get shared (blankets or towels) or clothing that someone who is sick may have worn. It’s super simple to use, you just pour some in your washer alongside your detergent. It doesn’t bleach and there’s no harsh smell. It’s not too exciting, but it’s an extra step to keep things safe and clean. 

Elizabeth Holmes’ Spare Audio Thoughts-I finished Spare by Prince Harry and loved it! As someone who has followed the Royal Family for years, I couldn’t wait to read Harry’s words and hear his thoughts about growing up. Hearing about his childhood without his mother broke my heart, reading how the army shaped him was profound and reading how he and Meghan fell in love brought me so much joy! I was so happy to finish it but sad it was over. Besides reading the book, I also listened to Elizabeth Holmes’ audio thoughts. I loved the insights she offered through the books, some of it were her opinions, others were facts she shared too. It was the perfect reading companion. I’m eager to see what Harry and Meghan do now.

The Recruit– Have you seen The Recruit on Netflix?! It came out at the end of last year, but I just got around to watching it this past week. It’s only one season and eight episodes, but it’s so good. I finished it in five days! It follows the story of a young lawyer who works for the CIA and gets way in over his head with a case involving a former asset for the CIA. He goes from being stuck at a desk to flying across the world for a mission. Every episode is filled with drama, suspense, some romance and a bit of humor. It hasn’t been renewed yet for a second season, but I hope it does since it leaves you with a big cliff hanger. If you saw it, what did you think?!

Fox’s Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test– I promise I do more than just work and watch tv, but I also got hooked on a new reality/competition show. I’m not big into competition shows, but I look forward to watching this show every week.  Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test on Fox follows over a dozen celebrities as they see if they have what it takes to be a Special Forces Operator. Some of the challenges they have to endure are pretty insane. I know I wouldn’t be able to do them, so I can the recruits a ton of credit for attempting them. Without giving too much way, not everyone can handle the pressure and some go home or quit. It’s fascinating to see some of the different contestants handle the pressure or don’t handle the pressure. 

That’s a look into some of my favorite things from this week. Tell me how are you celebrating the last weekend of the month?!

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Currently

Currently #37

Hi everyone! I can’t believe we are at the end of January! This month went by so fast, it was definitely nice to have a slower month compared to a busy December at the end of the year. This past month has been a good mix of fresh starts, staying cozy and getting outdoors too. As the month wraps up, here’s a look at some things I have been up to.

What I’ve Been Up To: I’ve spent this past month decluttering and organizing things. After a full December, both mentally and physically, I was looking forward to some New Year cleaning. I have been participating in the Simplified Simplicity Challenge this month and I have been so proud of doing little things every day to live a simplified life. I’ll be sharing a recap of my simplicity challenge next month.

Cleaning out different areas of your life, like your purse is just one example of the daily challenges.

I also have been trying to get outside for fresh air even in the colder months, whether it’s for a walk or run, even a few minutes outside makes all the difference. I also have been trying some new recipes and enjoying some new books too. January has been slow but productive.

January has been filled with lots of snow too!
Another new recipe I tried this month, Shrimp Avocado Medicine Soup by Jessie James Decker.

What I’m Wearing: I have been wearing all the layers especially when I am outdoors. I have so many scarves that I have been making a point to wear them when I’m out and about. Not only do they keep you warm, but they are also a great fashion statement too.

All the layers for chilly weather.

What I’m Reading: I’ve been reading lots of books over the past few weeks as I spend more time indoors. 

Here’s what I have been enjoying.

I Didn’t Do that Thing Today- “I Didn’t Do that Thing Today” has more of a psychological feel as opposed to a narrative feel. The author talks about all the research and interviews she has conducted when it comes to productivity. As someone who thrives on being a productive person and getting everything done, I learned a lot about not having to be busy all the time and giving ourselves breathing room and not letting a lack of accomplishment affect our days.

Spare-I have been making my way through  Spare, Prince Harry’s book. The book begins after the death of Princess Diana and follows Harry’s life to the present day. So far, I have found Prince Harry to be very real and vulnerable, but also giving historical context and perspective to different things in his life. I’m looking forward to finishing the book soon.

What I’m Watching: I have been watching and enjoying The Mindy Project. It’s so fun and easy to have on in the background as I get things done. I also have been watching some fun movies. I watched Knives Out: Glass Onion, About Fate and Something From Tiffany’s. All can be found on streaming services, they were all a mix of romantic comedies, mystery and dramas. I’ve been adding more things on my list of things to watch. 

About Fate was such a cute movie on Amazon Prime.

What Inspires Me: I’ve been inspired by a clean slate for the new year. From decluttering to starting new year’s resolutions and getting back into new routines. I love the new year and a fresh start.

Hello decluttering for a fresh start!
I’ve also been enjoying some baking too.

What I Accomplished: In addition to fresh starts, I have also been getting back into some of my favorite routines and hobbies. I got a few new cookbooks for Christmas and have really enjoyed trying out some new recipes including soups and hearty meals. I also have been so good about keeping up with friend dates, whether they are in-person or via facetime, it’s so good to get some quality friend time in.

New cookbooks means new recipes.
Winter weekends means pancakes!

Goals from Last Month: I have started on some of my New Year’s Resolutions which also gets me in the right mindset for the new year. Sometimes, the hardest part of starting a new habit is taking that first step. One of my goals of this year is to live a healthier lifestyle and I have tried to do that by making smarter food choices and moving more, we are only one month in, but we are off to a good start. I also have been checking things off my winter bucket list too!

Goals for this Month: February is all about love and Valentine’s Day and showing those in your life that you care! I’m looking forward to a Valentine’s Day date, some girlfriend time for Galentine’s Day and enjoying some chocolate and all things heart shaped. Plus, I’m excited to continue to enjoy winter by taking winter walks but also cozying up inside. 

I also went to a hockey game this month and I’m hoping to go to a few more before the season is over.

That’s a look into life recently. Some reading, some binge-watching, trying new foods, staying active and getting back into new routines.

 

I’ve also been enjoying some puppy cuddles too.

Tell me: How has your New Year’s Resolutions been going?