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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #7

Hello all!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #6

Hello All!

Happy Friday! 

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

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

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

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

–The Perfect Couple

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

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

–Elizabeth Holmes

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

–Crumbl

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

The sweetest treat!

–Disney Plus New Releases 

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

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

–Sweet Magnolias

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

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

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

Happy Friday and happy weekend!!

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Currently

Currently #25

Hey gang!

Happy Wednesday!

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?

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Fabulous living

Countdown to Christmas

It’s officially December and the Christmas season! Cue all the Christmas lights, music, and gifts! Last week, my family and I decorated for Christmas but I’ve been listening to Christmas music for the past few weeks and I already have some gifts purchases but still have a ways to go!. But it really feels like the Christmas season, we have already gotten some fresh snow, my Christmas flannel sheets are on, and I already have Christmas candles burning. 

With, the Christmas season upon us, it’s time to highlight some things on my Christmas to-do list.

  • See Christmas lights (This is perfect for a nighttime drive with some hot coco and sweet treats)
  • Get a tree and decorate it (We always cut down our tree a few weeks before Christmas and its one of my favorite traditions)
  • Make cookies (I am a big baker so I can’t wait to bake some of my favorite cookies and holiday treats, and I love sharing them with others)
  • Christmas movies (This is super easy and obvious but I can’t wait to watch all the classics, from family movies to cartoons, nothing says the holidays then Christmas movies, family and friends and holiday snacks)
  • Hot cocoa and Christmas music (Again, so simple, but enjoying a warm drink while I’m working or watching tv or getting things done. Plus I love listening to Christmas music on my way to work, or when I’m doing things around the house. I like the mix of classic songs with a mix of new covers. It’s the little things that make the Christmas season so special)
  • Christmas cards ( We always send out Christmas cards, it’s so fun to see how we have grown and changed through the year)
  • Buy gifts and Support Local (I love gift giving, I always try to stay organized and get the best deals. This year, I am looking to only shop and support small businesses or local businesses. I have already gotten some gifts from Etsy as a way to support small businesses. I plan on shopping other local spots this year to help them during what has been an unprecedented year)

That’s just a starting block for my Christmas to do list. I love taking advantage of Christmas activities. Above all, the most important part of the holidays is to celebrate Jesus’ birth and spend time with family! What are some things on your Christmas to do list?

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Fabulous living

December To Do’s

Hi All!

I hope you all had enjoyable Thanksgiving’s at home with your families. I know for me it was so nice to be home for a few days, relax, see family and enjoy the holidays. I always love Thanksgiving, from the food, to the family, and the relaxing day.

I also had some fun getting a start on the holiday baking. I had a few events that I had to bake for at school for Christmas and I was happy to make some for family too. I made some double chocolate chip cookies and peanut butter kiss cookies.

My favorite recipe for everyone’s favorite cookies

Peanut butter kiss cookies

The finished product

Now, that Thanksgiving is over, I can finally get into the Christmas season. I know December is going to fly by, so today I’m sharing the things I hope to accomplish this month.

  • Finals 

All college students can agree that once we make it through finals, we can truly enjoy the holidays. My finals week doesn’t look too bad, it will mostly be papers, portfolios and a test thrown in the mix. Hopefully it shouldn’t be too painful. Thanksgiving break definitely gave me the rest I needed to get through the next few weeks.

It may look empty now, but this finals week will fill up fast

  • Christmas Shopping

I have to give myself a pat on the back. I have been killing it at the Christmas gift game this year. I have done a lot of shopping online with the help of Amazon. It has been so easy to browse when I am free and add things to my shopping list (for others) or wish list (for myself) when I see something that interests me. Next week I’ll be doing a more extensive post all about Christmas gift system, but for now I hope to get all my shopping and wrapping done early on, so I can enjoy the Christmas season.

A look into my Amazon wish list, you know you are an adult when your list consists mostly of books…no shame!

  • Enjoy the Christmas Season

This is something I want to work on both at home and at school. I really want to enjoy the Christmas season and not rush it, I’m hoping to get in some gift giving nights with my friends at school, I have gifts for all my friends, and I am involved in some gift exchanges too. I want to also take it slow after the semester is over, that means watching Christmas movies (the classic and the Hallmark ones), making Christmas cookies (YUM), and listening to Christmas music (not going to lie, I have already started to listen to Christmas music. Haha)!

I already got some Christmas spirit in with Light Up Night a few weeks ago

My Go-To Christmas Playlist

I really want to be more present this Christmas season, that means trying to take it slower, be more intentional and fit as much Christmas stuff in as possible. What are some of your Christmas or December goals? Enjoy the last few days of November and bring on the Christmas jolly and joy!

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Fabulous living

Holiday Themed Q&A

  1. With Christmas just a few weeks away, I’m answering a few holiday themed questions thanks to the The Blended Blog. Feel free to answer the questions too. Let’s see how much we have in common.
  • Real or Fake Tree?

Real! Always real. Some of my favorite memories as a kid is picking out and cutting down our Christmas tree. It’s one of my favorite Christmas traditions!

  • Favorite Christmas Cookie?

Sugar Cookies. I love the baking and decorating and fun that goes into baking cookies. We make our own cookie dough and icing, which takes time but it’s part of the fun. No better snack than cookies and milk.

  • Home on Christmas Morning or Travel?

Always home. On Christmas day we spend the whole day at home in our pajamas. My family and I are constantly on the go so it’s nice to take some time to just be home and with family.

  • Clear or Colored Lights?

Our tree is always covered in colored lights. We have an array of ornaments from our childhood to present day. I love seeing all the colored lights illuminate our family room.

  • Send Christmas Cards?

Yes!! We are big Christmas card people. We love to both give and receive them. I am currently working on putting together this year’s card. I love having a creative outlet and Christmas cards are the perfect excuse to do something festive during the holidays. Also, living in such a technological world, it’s always nice to get actual mail.

  • Favorite Christmas Present Received?

When I was five years old, I got my doll house. Later, I found out how much time my dad spent building and working on it. To this day it was my favorite Christmas  gifts.

  • Favorite Christmas Gift Given?

My friends and I love anything monogrammed and this year I got them monogrammed pop sockets! They all loved them and it was something super personalized. I love gifts with meanings.

  • Stockings or No Stockings?

Stocking of course! And you better believe they were hung by the chimney with care!

  • Christmas PJ’s?

Oh yes! Every year my brothers and I get all decked out with our Christmas PJ’s and wear them all Christmas day.

  • Favorite Christmas Carol?

Not really a Christmas Carol but I love the song, “Do They Know it’s Christmas”, such a good song with a good message. Also I love all the renditions that have come out through the years!

  • Favorite Holiday Tradition?

Going around looking at Christmas lights as a family and reading “Twas the Night Before Christmas” on Christmas Eve. Although we may have gotten older, the traditions always stay the same.

  • Early Shopper or Last Minute?

Typically, I’m a last minute but this year I got a lot of it done early thanks to Amazon!!! Being away at college, I don’t have a lot of time to do shopping so shopping online has been so helpful this year.

  • Favorite Christmas Movie or Show?

I’ve always loved the cartoon, “A Year Without a Santa Claus”, such a classic feel good movie. I am also a huge fan of “The Santa Clause” series. The one liners never get old.

  • Favorite Holiday Beverage?

Peppermint Hot Chocolate. My two favorite flavors mixed together! Nothing better than chocolate and mint.

-Cookies and Milk for Santa?

Of course! Would it be Christmas without it?!

Well, there you have it. My favorite things about Christmas. What do we have in common? What are you favorite holiday traditions? Let me know in the comments below! Happy Tuesday! xoxo