It is the first Friday of April and it certainly feels like spring. I have a packed few weeks coming up and it all kicks off today!
Tonight is the home opener of our local baseball team, which means we are gearing up for summer nights at the ballpark which is always a good date night or family activity. Our local high school is putting on West Side Story this weekend, so I will be spending some time at the theater, which is fun! Looking ahead, I have a weekend trip planned for next week, then Easter the following week. I love seeing my calendar fill up with all the fun things!
Before we get to the fun, I wanted to catch you up on some of my favorite things from this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea.
The Messy Lives of Book People– I mentioned this audiobook in my Currently last week, but wanted to share more about it today. I really have enjoyed Phaedra Patrickās books including The Little Italian Hotel and The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper. I couldnāt wait to read this book about authors and book lovers. The Messy Lives of Book People. is all about a woman who gets hired by her favorite author to clean. When the author dies, she leaves the job of finishing her book to her cleaner. The question is why. There were so many fun connections and secrets all through the book, I couldn’t stop listening. I listened in the car, at the gym, even getting ready in the morning. I really loved the narrator too, thatās always a make it or break it for me when it comes to audio books. My favorite part? The author’s name was Elspeth. Too funny! I loved this book, definitely a favorite!
Yogurt Covered Raisins– Iām not typically a fan of raisins. I prefer craisins as a snack or in a salad, but not raisins. I also enjoy chocolate covered raisins-to no oneās surprise. However, I gave yogurt covered raisins a try and got hooked. I loved the sweetness and the outer covering they provide and I donāt mind the raisin taste as much. They are the perfect afternoon pick me up or lunch snack to satisfy that sweet craving, although, they arenāt the healthiest, they are still tasty.
Simplified Cover Reveal– It was like Christmas morning for me on Wednesday as Simplified revealed their new covers for the upcoming year. They launch new products and their academic planners next Wednesday, but I wonāt be making any purchases until their fall launch when I get their yearly planner. I always love to see what new products they come up with and what items they bring back. Hereās what I have my eye on this year.
Meghan Markle New Podcast– From a new Netflix show to a new podcast, last month, Meghan Markle announced she was launching a podcast. Itās called, āConfessions of a Female Founderā, you can watch/listen to the trailer here. She has also shared some behind the scenes videos and pictures. I plan to listen to the episodes once they drop next Tuesday. I love listening to podcasts and learning new things and I think this will be a great podcast to add to my library. If you are a fan of Harry and Meghan, do you think you will be listening?
Pinterest Spring Boards and Foods– Whenever the seasons change, I find myself scroll through Pinterest more for ideas and inspiration. These can be anything from new spring-like recipes to try, house decor, date ideas, even spring quotes. Pinterest is an instant mood booster for me and I am always so inspired when I am looking through different pins. This is a look at some recipes I want to try in the kitchen.
There you have it. A look at some of my favorite things from this week. Lots of fun things are coming up and a taste of spring too. Iām off to a busy weekend, but will see you back here on Wednesday! Have a great weekend!
I hope you have been having a great week and are ready for a spring weekend!Ā I know I am. This week, I finished a big work project, got some time outdoors and started to run outside again, major wins!!
I can’t believe we are at the end of March. The spring season is going by too fast, before we know it, we will be celebrating Easter!
Before we get to a weekend of outdoor fun, maybe some spring cleaning or yardwork, I wanted to share some things that I have been loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea for Friday Favorites!
Meghan Markle’s New Show-I know itās been out for a few weeks, but I just got around to watching, With Love, Meghan. Itās Meghan Markleās new show on Netflix. When heard the Ducheess of Sussex was coming out with a show I was intrigued what it would be about. Her series, which was already renewed for season two features her and different friends each episodes as they make different recipes and tackle different projects. She makes fruit platters, cakes, chicken, pasta, candles and balloon arches, truly a little bit of everything. The show is very aesthetically pleasing to watch and very soothing, but at certain times unrealistic (who has time to pick fresh berries and make preserves every day?). I do love seeing how she interacts with her friends and the different recipes she makes, some easier than others. Overall, I enjoyed the first season and will definitely be watching season two!
Protein Bars– When I was on the road last month for work I made sure to pack plenty of snacks, including healthy ones for long days when we may miss a meal. I tried two different protein bars, one by Nature Valley and the other by Fit Crunch. I chose peanut butter and chocolate flavored ones since I have a sweet tooth and enjoyed them both. I did find the Fit Crunch to be more flavorful and filling. These wouldnāt keep you satisfied for a meal, but a good snack and they are both packed with protein! A win for me!
New Journal– I got a new journal at the beginning of the year and loved it. It had different self care prompts for each day. However, I didnāt realize it wouldnāt last me for a year, so I had to get another one for daily journaling. This new journal was one II already had as a gift from a friend and it does the job perfectly for what I was looking for in a journal. There are no prompts, but plenty of space to fill in with thoughts, quotes and mementos. Sometimes I like structure with a journal, other times, I just like being able to put my thoughts on paper. Right now, in my season of life, having a spot to put all my thoughts down is what I need.
Using the Playbooks– I started using The Lazy Genius Playbooks at the beginning of the year in addition to my Simplified Planner. Itās been four months and I wanted to share a playbook update. I mentioned them a few weeks ago in my post about how I reset for the week, but wanted to do a more in-depth review. The playbooks have been a huge help to my weekly and daily organization. Thereās one for each season and there are different prompts for have to and hope to as well as brain dump spot. Thereās a spot to write down notes or to do each week, which I love! Every week, I will fill out my Simplified planner and play book based off my phone calendar and things to do. I use my Simplified planner for daily tasks and to do and use the playbook for weekly goals and notes. I use them both every day and they have been instrumental in keeping me organized without going organized. You donāt have to use both, but I have found using them as companions have been very helpful for me.
Outdoor Walks– Goodbye treadmill walks, hello outdoor walks! We are finally experiencing spring and I have been loving being able to get outdoors! I have already taken several spring walks, even in windy or chilly conditions. I truly believe the sun makes everything better! I have even gotten in some outdoor runs too! I truly missed getting outside for fresh air and sunshine. Whether I am on the phone, walking with friends or family, walking with my dogs, or listening to an audiobook, the fresh air has been such a bright spot in my days!
Thatās a look into life lately and what Iām loving!
How has your March been treating you? I would love to know! Are you ready for the fresh start of a new month? Happy Friday and I’ll see you back here next week.
Hi everyone! A very happy Friday Favorites to you. Spring is here and it certainly has sprung. I donāt know about you, but I have not so patiently been waiting for this new season. Iām ready for fresh starts and new beginnings, sunshine, blue skies, and no more snow.
A taste of Spring!
Can you tell Iām excited for spring?!
Before we get to the weekend, I wanted to share some of my favorite things from the past week. I have lots of entertainment options, a spring scent and a foodie favorite!
Letās waste no time and dive right in as I link up with Erika and Andrea.
The Pitt– My latest tv binge-worthy obsession has been The Pitt. It stars ER vet, Noah Wyle and itās a drama about working in the Emergency Department. It takes place in Pittsburgh and they actually shot some scenes in the 412! The series follows a medical team from interns, to nurses, and attendings about what a standard shift looks like. This hour-long drama brings in lots of interesting cases and patients and from what I have heard, itās one of the most realistic medical dramas on tv. The episodes drop once a week on Max every Thursday! Definitely check it out!
The Recruit– It came out a few weeks ago, but I finally got around to watching the new season of the Recruit. Season two picks up right after where the last one ended. I wanted to finish The Pitt before I began a new show, so Iām glad I waited. I like how this series on Netflix mixes drama and humor every episode. Iāve been enjoying working my way through this new season.
New Essential Oils– One of my close friends recommended this new essential oil at Target and let me tell you, it is an instant mood booster. Your space will feel like spring and you will want to open all the windows and have birds chirping in the background. At least, thatās how I felt. I love the combination this scent offers of fresh and clean. Itās also great to use after you finish cleaning your space.
Movie Soundtracks– I have been spending a lot of time in the car and one of the things thatās helped me has been listening to movie and musical soundtracks. I have been listening to music from my favorite Broadway shows, rom coms, and everything in between. I like to listen to them through Apple music, but you can find your favorites on Spotify or YouTube. Listening to a movie soundtrack helps the time past and it draws you back into the movie. Highly recommend listening to your favorite scores when doing chores, running errands or taking long car rides.
Some of my recent favorites
Chai Seeds– I started to incorporate Chai seeds into more of my meals and I have been loving them. I made chai pudding and overnight oats and enjoyed them both, but I have to say I enjoyed the overnight oats a bit more. After I made both recipes and let them sit, I added some of my favorite protein granola, some fruit and chocolate chips for extra flavoring and crunch. The perfect snack or dessert, plus itās healthy too!
Chai PuddingOvernight Oats
There you have it! Thatās a look at what I have been loving this week, some spring snacks, new entertainment options and a new scent for your space. What things have you been doing to get into the spirit of Spring? I would love to hear from you! Have a fantastic Friday!
I hope it has been a splendid week for you and you are getting ready for spring or at least trying too! It has been a very long winter so the fact we are closer to the start of spring than the start of winter makes me very happy! Life is back to normal for me, which I am happy about. Plus, spring is almost here.
A sneak peak from my work trip. More to come in a few weeks.
This weekend, we have our St. Patrick’s Day parade which is always a fun time!
Today Iām linking up with Erika and Andrea for Friday Favorites with a bunch of fun and new things as we round out this week! I have a mix bag of movies, books, some things Iāve been up to, and a recent favorite snack! Letās get to it!
Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy- Bridget Jones is one of my favorite rom coms! I love the quirkiness of the character with Bridget, I love the relationship between Mark, Bridget, and Daniel and I adore all the British references. Itās one of those movies that I can watch time and time again and it doesnāt get old. I have seen all the movies and when the most recent one came out, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy on Peacock. I was anxious to see it, especially once I learned what the plot was about. Although apprehensive at first, I went into the movie with a clear mind and I really enjoyed the film. Itās all about how Bridget moves on after a major life event. A lot of the original cast returns for this movie which made it extra special and although older, Bridget hasnāt changed a bit. If you have seen the other movies, this is definitely worth the watch!
New Scent from Bath and Body Works– Every few months itās time for a scent refresh and this refresh timed out perfectly with a new month and soon to be season. I still have some of my Emily in Paris collection from Christmas to use from Bath and Body Works. I really have been enjoying this lavender scent. It has some springy feels to it which is desperately needed after our long winter. I am still burning a lavender candle in my room so I am channeling all the lavender and soothing vibes, if only it could bring spring faster.
Simplified Pouches- I mentioned in a post a few weeks ago that I was loving my Simplified tote, well I have also been loving my Simplified pouches to keep things organized when I am on the road or in the air. These have come in handy so many times over the last month. I have a large and small pouch and you can see I used the small one to hold writing utensils and chargers and cords. I love how it keeps all my stuff tidy and in one spot. I also love the quilted material!
Reconnecting with Friends– Over the past month, in addition to seeing my current friends, I have spent a lot of time reconnecting with old friends. It has truly brought me so much joy to catch up with people about their careers, families, and love lives. Whether in-person or on facetime or through a phone call, I have enjoyed seeing and hearing what people are up to and where they are at in life.
Protein Mix– I mentioned a few posts back that I have been loving fruit bowls as a snack or with my meal. I discovered a new topping to add to my rotation. I will combine greek yogurt, fruit and now some protein mix to my bowls. I love the sweet and salty flavor this granola provides and the extra vitamins and proteins to gives too. I am always looking for different way to get more protein in my diet and this does the trick.
Thatās a look into what I have been loving this week, some food, some entertainment and some self care. As we make our way through March, what are you loving this week? Are you ready for spring and hoping for more snow! Iām Team Spring! I hope you have a fabulous weekend!
Happy Friday! I hope you had a great week and are ready for the weekend! I am still out of town for work, so my weekend isn’t here quite yet, but it’s on its way.
I canāt believe we are at the beginning of March! We are inching closer and closer to spring which Iām very excited about! Brighter and warmer days are (hopefully) ahead!Ā We have had a VERY long winter and I’m ready for the new season.
New mantra for the new month
As we get ready for the weekend, here are some things I have been loving this week. Some beauty picks, some travel items (this timed out perfectly), and a sweet treat or two! Letās get to it as I link up withĀ ErikaĀ andĀ AndreaĀ for Friday Favorites!
Burtās Bees Lotion– I started to use this Burtās Bees lotion. Itās a thick cream that smells like almond and vanilla. I would recommend using it on dry skin, hands, or feet due to its thickness. I really love the smell and the durability. The scent isnāt too overpowering which is something I appreciate. This has been a favorite of mine in winter months.
Luggage Tags– I have been doing some travel lately (both for work and fun) and these luggage tags that I got for Christmas were a win for me! They match my navy and brown tote and backpack and are easy to spot if I have to check either item. I couldnāt pass up a monogram moment either!
Charlotte Tilbury Lip Kit- I got this travel/lip kit pair from Charlotte Tilbury as a gift from a friend and I have been so pleased with it. This is my first Charlotte Tilbury item. Itās a lip pencil and gloss. I love the neutral color, how smooth it goes on, and the great coverage it provides. I put it on in the morning and it lasted most of the day even with eating and drinking. I have been wearing this every day while I’ve been away and I’ve been loving it! I will definitely check out more products by Charlotte Tilbury.Ā
Hot Chocolate– I love a good warm drink in the winter months and a warm cup of chocolate is always a sweet treat. I recently tried this new brand of hot chocolate which is packed with vitamins, minerals, and proteins. It tastes just like a warm cup of hot cocoa but itās healthy for you too! A win for me!
Emily Ley Cookbook– I have been looking forward to this day for months, Emily Leyās latest book, and first cookbook dropped this past week, it’s called the Simplified Cook Book. Itās filled with so many easy meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snack, and desserts. She has been teasing her cookbook for months and Iām so happy to have a copy in my hands. This is a great cookbook for anyone looking for easy meals and how to function and work in a kitchen. This would also make a great housewarming gift too. I canāt wait to start trying new recipes.
Thatās a look at what I have been loving this first week of March! As we countdown to spring, what are some things you have been enjoying this week? I would love to hear from you!
Happy Friday! I hope you had great week. As we make our way to the weekend, I wanted to share some of my favorite highlights from this past week. It is the last day of February and I for one am thrilled to be a bit closer to spring.
Fresh flowers at the store made me very happy!
Even though, I know the snow won’t magically disappear, I’m excited for some warmer weather. Thereās hopefully a little bit of something for everyone in this week’s edition of Friday Favorites! Letās dive in as I link up with Erika and Andrea.
New Sneakers– One thing I have DESPERATELY missed this winter has been running outdoors. This has been my biggest complaint about the winter months. The snow, ice, and freezing temperatures have kept me inside and on a treadmill or on a turf as opposed to out running on trails. Although, Iām grateful to run inside, I canāt wait to get back outdoors not only for the paths, but to test out my new running sneakers. My current sneakers have a lot of miles on them, so I decided to upgrade. This is my first time trying Hoka (Iām typically a New Balance gal) but decided to give Hoka a try. Iāll have a thorough report after I can log more miles outdoors in my sneakers.
From Here to the Great Unknown– Wow! I canāt tell you the last time I raced through a book as fast as I did with this one. From Here to the Great Unknown is the memoirs of both Lisa Marie Presley and Riley Keough. The books discusses their lives and the life of Elvis told through their eyes. I loved the Elvis movie when it came out a handful of years ago and really enjoyed watching Keough in Daisy Jones and the Six, so I couldnāt wait to read this book and it didnāt disappoint. 5 Stars for me.
Scamanda– I mentioned this podcast in 2023 when I listened to it in the summer. Itās all about a woman who faked cancer and scammed thousands of people. I found the podcast to be very fascinating and was excited to learn a documentary would be made about it. Scamanda is airing in four parts on ABC and I have been loving it. It just wrapped up last week and I am got all caught up over the weekend. Itās very similar to the podcast, but you get to meet the people involved. I looked forward to the episodes every week.
OJ Simpson Documentary– Another documentary I just finished was a new four-part series on Netflix about O.J. Simpson. Although I donāt remember the case, I have learned and read about it a lot through the years. Iāve watched different documentaries, specials, and adaptations on it too. I was curious to see how this one compared. I liked how it was broken into four parts and I liked the length of each episode too. I really appreciated how they brought back some of the key players, years later for updated interviews. Overall, very well done!
Fruit Bowls- We have had a long winter over here, so Iāve been trying to break up my days with things that bring me joy and that includes more fruit. I have been devouring these homemade fruit bowls. They are very simple to put together and you can alter them to your liking. I typically have Greek yogurt, fruit (bananas, berries, watermelon-whatever is on hand), some granola, and then mini chocolate chips for a sweet treat at the end of the day. I have been eating this as a snack, but it can be enjoyed for breakfast too. I have been loving the energy boost it gives me and the colors make me happy too.
Thatās a look into what I have been loving this week. What are some things that have been helping you get through this winter slump?
Hello everyone! Happy Wednesday! We made it to the end of February! I donāt know about you, but this month moved a lot faster than January, which I was very happy about. I feel like we are getting closer to the end of a very long winter. Some months are more eventful than others, but Iām afraid this month is not as exciting as past months, but it was still good nonetheless and filled with some travel, lots of VERY good books, and catching up on shows. Hereās what the past 28 days looked like.
What Iām Up To: This month involved some time outside for walks when I could, but February was an icy month.
I got away for a long weekend which was so fun and much needed.
I got away for the long weekend and the change of scene was so nice!
I got to see the Atlantic Ocean again while I was away too!
And made it home safe and sound!
I also got to celebrate Valentineās Day leading up to and on the day.
Cut-out cookies for the holidayAnd more tasty treatsValentine’s Day goodies
I also got a haircut and switched up my hair style
What Iām Reading: I had such a good reading month! I canāt wait to share some of my favorite reads
The Secret Book of Flora Lea- The Secret Book of Flora Lea by Patt Callahan is all about two sisters in World War II who get sent to live with another family during the war. One of the sisters goes missing and years later the other sister reads a book that contains all the made-up stories she told her sister growing up. After all these years, is her sister still alive and where has she been? This was a great historical mystery. Mix and Match Mama picked it for her January Book Club and I devoured it!
From Here to the Great Unknown– Lisa Marie Presley and Riley Keough wrote this memoir about their lives and Elvisā. I learned so much about the Presley family and life behind the camera. It was so fascinating and led me to listen to some Elvis music because of it. Such a good read!
Leading Women– Leading Women by Nancy O’ Reilly is a compilation of essays written by women for women. They highlight the struggles and victories women encounter in life, businesses, and in careers. I read it over the course of a few days, but I think it would be better read a little bit every day and not all at one time.
The Lazy Genius Kitchen– Kendra Adachiās second book, The Lazy Genius Kitchen is all about the best way to use your kitchen. She goes through ways to organize and essentialize your kitchen that works for you. She also breaks down different kitchen terms and phrases. If you are a kitchen pro or you have never had your own space, I highly recommend this book.
Half Marathon: You Can Do It– Jeff Gallowayās Half Marathon: You Can Do It is a beginnerās guide to running and running a half marathon. I am planning to run a half marathon this summer and learned so much from this book especially when it comes to training and preparing. He talks about his run-walk method and proper ways to train and prepare for a race. I found myself taking notes and photos as I was reading.
The Art of Stillness- As someone who is always on the go, this book really forced me to slow down. I read it when I was traveling and I found it fascinating to learn the importance of slowing down. The Art of Stillness by Pico Iyer
Young and Restless– Young and Restless by Mattie Kahn was a book I had on my shelves for ages and I just got around to it. It’s all about different girls who made their mark on history in different ways. I loved learning about these women’s stories and the impact they had on society. A great topic as we enter Women’s Empowerment month.
What Iām Watching: A lot of my favorite shows came back for new seasons, so I spent time catching up on several shows.
Night Agent- Season 2 of The Night Agent on Netflix brought new characters, a new mission, and lots of edge on your seat moments. The first half of the season was a bit confusing and slow with lots of new characters, but the end of the season tied all the storylines together. The finale opened the door for new questions and a new mission.
Sweet Magnolias– After an intense show like The Night Agent, I needed a pallet cleanser and Sweet Magnolias on Netflix provided that for me. This season had lots of sweet and unexpected moments and even some drama. I liked seeing how some of the relationships unfolded and how the characters grew from different situations. Overall, a good season.
Scamanda– I listened to the podcast about Scamanda in 2023 and was excited to learn a documentary would be made about it through ABC. I really enjoyed the four part series. It was interesting to put names with faces and I think the creators did a great job at covering everything the podcast did and more.
American Manhunt- O.J. Simpson– My boyfriend and I watched this four part series about O.J. Simpson. I have always known about the O.J. case and I liked the light this series shined on Simpson and his case. I really liked how they interviewed some of the key people for this series on Netflix.
Masked Singer– The Masked Singer is back for season 13. This hour-long show always provides a good laugh and keeps me guessing who’s under the mask. There have been some pretty good reveals so far this season and Iām excited to see who wins it all!
What Iām Cooking/Baking: This month has been filled with a mix of baking and cooking!
I almost got this mug but held off
Homemade Brownies– I made Ina Gartnerās outrageous brownies. They were good but not great. Iāve tried a few different homemade brownie recipes and have yet to land a winner. Until then, Iāll keep trying different recipes.
Grilled Cheese and Homemade Tomato soup- We have had a stretch of cold weather and soup and grilled cheese is a perfect go-to. I tried Emily Leyās homemade grilled cheese and tomato soup and it was so easy and hit. I canāt wait until her cookbook comes out!
Roasted Shrimp and Orzo– Another Ina Garten recipe for the win. I made her Roasted Shrimp and Orzo and really liked it. It was healthy and filling and very easy and can be made in any season.
Cheese and Spinach Bake– I made the bake as a side dish one night and it was so filling and healthy too. The recipe is from Brunch with Babs. Itās spinach, cheddar cheese, and cottage cheese with some egg. This would be great for a brunch or a dip!
Baked Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Salad-A filling Sunday night dinner with lots of nutrients.
French Silk Pie was a new recipe for me and it was a hit!
Margarita Chicken Soup is always a good call on a cold day!
Homemade Hummus and Chicken Gyros- It was Greek night with lots of tasty and savory bites!
Chicken GyrosHomemade Hummus and Pita
Chicken Caesar Club Sanwichs– This was such a hearty and tasty meal that was a hit!
What Iām Wearing:
Since February is the month of love. I tried my best to wear as much red, pink, purple, and white as possible.
Layers for cold days
All pink for Valentine’s Day
A more casual look
The neutrals for more winter weather
What Inspires Me:
After such a gloomy and gray winter, any day with sunshine is good day! I also have been inspired by putting more of an emphasis on my health by going on more walks and making healthier choices too!
Some reading inspiration
And some love inspiration for the month of love!
Some desk inspiration and motivation
What I Accomplished– I am still making my way through my Winter Bucket List, but I still have things that need crossed off over the next few weeks.
I got out for some outdoor running time!
Goals from Last Month– I was able to see all my friends for some one-on-one dates, virtual, and in-person. I also got to celebrate Valentineās Day and do some traveling too!
Some cute Valentine’s Day details
And some sweet treats!
Goals for Next Month– I am READY for warmer weather, getting ready for spring and to see my brothers who will be home for Spring Break!
Thatās a look into life as of late. A lot of time indoors, self care, and some socializing. Iām looking forward to brighter days ahead. What about you?! How was your February!? What were some highlights for you? Let me know in the comments below! Happy Wednesday!
Happy Friday! I hope you had a full and successful week! February is flying by which is good for me. January felt wayyyyy longer than I wanted, but February is flying by. I think a lot of that had to do with the fact I have more things on my calendar to look forward to. I got back from a weekend away last weekend and it gave me the energy I needed to make it through the second half of winter. As much as I love to travel, itās always good to come home and get settled after time off.
My go-to look, all bundled up for winter. Hat, scarf, and puffy jacket!
As we look towards brighter days, here are some things I have been loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea
New Candle Scent– I finished my Emily in Paris candle which I loved and it was time for a new one. I decided to switch it up with a lavender scent to relax and unwind to the start and end of the day. I got this candle from a local candle company. I love to support local businesses whenever I can and this was a great opportunity to do so. The candles come in different size Mason jars which I find so cute. I also love how the scent lingers after you blow it out. This has been a favorite of mine these past few weeks.
Hair Shine Mist- I use a lot of different products in my hair every day and I always like experimenting with new products. I have been trying this shine mist after Iām done doing my hair, before I head out the door. It gives my hair a nice clean look and it smells great too. But I do notice that it adds some shine and volume too. Definitely a win for me when it comes to hair products!
New Apple Watch Band– As i mentioned in my post a few weeks ago, I LOVE my apple watch and wear all day, every day. I typically keep the generic, athletic band on it at all times, but sometimes for work, I want a more professional look. I decided to purchase a gold/leather watch band from Amazon and I have been loving it. It definitely elevates my look and I feel more sophisticated when I wear it. An inexpensive purchase that makes me feel more put together and fashionable.
Back in Action- Have you seen the new movie on Netflix, Back in Action?! It stars Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx. My boyfriend and I recently watched it during a virtual watch party and both really enjoyed it. Was it the greatest movie of all time? No, but was it a good thriller with some good one-liners on Netflix to enjoy for a date night?! Absolutely! The movie follows two spies who get out of the business to start a family only to get pulled right back in years later. Definitely a fun movie to watch for your next night in.
Virtual watch party for the win!
Pomodoro Timer- My friend recommended I try the Pomodoro Timer for work and house projects and it has been super helpful when staying on task. Sometimes, I, like many can get distracted when Iām trying to a task or work and the timer is a great motivator to stay focused and catch your breath every few minutes. This is a great tool if you spend hours at a desk and need a reminder to get moving too.
Thatās a look into life this past week and what Iām loving! Some shows, movies, accessories, and beauty items, truly a little bit of everything. I hope you have found something that brought you JOY this past week. Have a fabulous weekend! See you back here on Wednesday!
Hi everyone! Happy Friday and more importantly, Happy Valentineās Day! I hope you are showing and getting some love today. I know I have been making some time for my girlfriends over the past few weeks. Whether it is with your significant other, spouse, girlfriends, or even yourself, today is such a good reminder to give yourself some extra love and maybe even treat yourself too!
I am out of town this weekend, for a little getaway, so I am looking forward to a break in the routine for some fun. However you are spending the day, I hope itās enjoyable. Before we get to the weekend, I wanted to share some current favorites with you as I link up with Erika and Andrea for Friday Favorites
Simplified Bags and Pouches-We kick things off with travel accessories which ties in perfectly with me being on the road today. I got the Simplified tote and pouches for Christmas and have used them here and there, but was waiting for a trip to use and take advantage of them. I love the soft blue color and the quilted pattern. The size is great for running errands if you need to hold lots of things or for a weekend away. The pouches make organizing small items much easier too.
New Car Scent– My interior of my car has gotten very dirty this winter with lots of snow, ice, and salt. I try to keep up with cleaning it, but it just keeps getting messy. I canāt wait for spring and summer when I can really detail it. One thing I have kept up with is keeping my car smelling good. I swapped out car scents and am going for a fresh scent for a new month. I want to be better with the maintenance of my car this year by including monthly car washes and scent swaps. Hereās what Iām currently using from Bath and Body Works. I love the freshness that it provides to my car.
Valentineās Day Playlist– Itās Valentineās Day and I have been enjoying the month of love as much as I can. From doing some decorating, wearing my reds, pinks, and purples, and listening to lots of love music. I found this great playlist on Apple Music which has a little bit of everything, some classic songs, new hits, and all genres of love songs. This has been a go-to playlist for me as I drive or get things done. Give it a try if you are looking for some background music this weekend.
The Six Triple Eight- This has been on my watch list for a while on Netflix and I finally got around to viewing it. The Six Triple Eight is based on the all-black, female battalion in World War II who worked to help organize and distribute mail. I was first intrigued by it because it starred Kerry Washington was a Tyler Perry film, but the more I watched and read about it, the more invested I got. I really loved the historical storyline, and I think they did an incredible job showing just how challenging it was to be a woman of color in the army in World War II. They had a stellar cast who brought so much emotion and passion to the film. I wouldn’t be surprised if it got nominated and won awards for it. This would also be a great film to watch as we make our way into Black History Month.
Ice Scraper-This winter season has been oh-so cold. We have dealt with record-breaking snow falls, blizzard warnings, freezing temperatures and everything else in between. Needless to say, winter tools have been my best friend this year. I got a heated ice scraper for Christmas, and it has been a game changer. You just plug it in your car, and it heats up and you can start scraping ice off your windshield or other parts of your car. It’s proven to be a big help especially when you don’t want to spend too much time outdoors.
Thatās a roundup of things that have grabbed my attention this week! As we make our way to Valentineās Day weekend, what are your plans and how will you be celebrating? Whether itās by yourself or with loved ones, I hope itās a wonderful day and weekend. Happy Valentineās Day!
Hello All! Happy Wednesday and Happy February! We are making our way through the first week of the February and I donāt know about you, but I love the sense of freshness that comes with a new month, plus I really enjoy the second month of the year with more winter fun, the Super Bowl, Galentineās Day and Valentineās Day, so many fun events that make the cold days a little bit brighter!
Winter walks and sunshine for the win!
As I go through my life, there are things I find myself reaching for every single day, sometimes, multiple times a day. They may not seem like a lot to others, but to me, I canāt live without them. Hereās a list of five things I use every day that I canāt live without (minus the obvious-phone, car, food, clothes etc.).
Apple Watch- I always have my Apple Watch on and it never leaves my wrist except when I am showering or sitting for long periods of time and I know it needs a charge. Since I upgraded to the series 10 last month, I have noticed my battery life is much longer. I use my watch for the time, to track my workouts, steps, sleep, text messages, emails, and even calls. Itās so helpful to set reminders or check a notification when my phone isnāt around. I know smart watches arenāt for everyone, but this is a tool that I use all the time and am constantly looking to try new features.
Wireless Earbuds– I was never a big headphone or earbud gal, but I got these JBL wireless earbuds as a gift a few years ago and use them almost every day. I wear them when I go running to listen to podcasts, I use them for travel to watch or listen to things on my phone, and I even use them for work. Their charge lasts for several uses and Iāve been pleased with the quality. I almost always have them with me wherever I go.
Planner– If there is one thing I refer to multiple times a day, itās my Simplified Planner. I plan my weeks out using the planner and I use it every single day, even multiple times. I open it up when I am getting ready for the day. I will use it at work for putting in important dates and work functions. I use it at night for to-do lists and looking towards the next day. The new planner for the weekly is a bit larger, but I love the extra space it provides. I couldnāt survive without my planner and when I donāt use it, I find myself feeling scattered.
Water Bottle– No matter the day, time or place, I always have a bottle with me. I take a Yeti to work with me, I have water bottles for the gym, I always have one by my bedside and whenever I leave the house, I make sure to have a bottle or cup of water with me. I never like the feeling of being dehydrated and I always want to make sure I have something to drink, plus whenever I feel down or sick or not my best, water always helps!
Chapstick and Hand Lotion– Two things that I have multiple of in many different spots. I keep a chapstick and lotion by my bedside, in my car, in my purse, and in my desk at work. I love to keep my hands soft and not dry (especially in the winter) and I hate the feeling of dry or cracker lips. I wear a lot of makeup at work, so having smooth lips is a must for me. Two small items that may not seem like much, but I would have a hard time surviving without them.
Now obviously, I always have my phone, wallet, and keys with me wherever I go, but these are some extra items that I use every single day and help make my days smoother. What are some of your favorite things you canāt live without?! I would love to know! Itās always so fun to see what other people are using and loving!
I hope you all are having a great week and Iāll see you back here on Friday for another edition of Friday Favorites!
