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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #19

Hi everyone! 

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

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

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

A little bit of Christmas cheer!

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

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

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

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

Some of my Christmas reads so far!

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

Happy Friday!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #17

Hey guys! Happy Friday! Today’s Friday Favorites is holiday themed! I have been full-on Christmas spirit over here and I can’t wait to share some of my favorite things! As always, I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea for today’s Friday Favorites. Here we go!

Holiday Decor– Per tradition, we always decorate for Christmas the day after Thanksgiving, it’s a lot of work, but the end result is worth it. I love bringing out seasonal throw blankets, pillows and lights and using festive mugs and cups. I picked up my free red cup from Starbucks a few weeks ago, I waited until after Thanksgiving to start using it. There’s nothing better than watching tv, visiting with family and friends or reading, than with all the holiday decorations up. 

Peppermint Brownie Brittle– I always love to see what seasonal products stores roll out. It can be tempting to buy everything, whether it’s food or decor, but I try to only purchase my favorites. When I saw this Peppermint Brownie Brittle, I knew I had to try it. It’s the perfect mix of chocolate and mint and it satisfies your sweet tooth with a few pieces. This would make a great hostess gift or a fun stocking stuffer too. This would even make a great addition to add to your dessert or snack menu.

New Winter Scent– I was due for a new lotion and made sure I got a winter scent for the month of December. Winter Candy Apple is my favorite holiday scent from Bath and Body Works. It reminds me of Christmas in a bottle. I love the sweet and peppermint mixture and it’s just another subtle nod to the holidays.

Christmas Books– I told myself I would only be reading Christmas books in the month of December and I’m doing well so far. I picked up a few from my local library and can’t wait to read more. I’m currently working on A Shopalcohlic Christmas and have A Nantucket Christmas on deck. If you are a big reader, let me know what your favorite Christmas reads are.

Pinterest Christmas Finds– I have been scouring Pinterest for different holiday inspiration and ideas for the month of December. I have date ideas, recipes, even different places all decked out for Christmas saved. Pinterest is such a fun place to get ideas and try new things out. It’s definitely a fun way to pass the time too.

That’s just a look into some of my favorite holiday things this week. Let me know in the comments below on how your Christmas prep is coming. Happy December!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #15

Hello everyone! Happy Friday! Can you believe we are less than a week away from Thanksgiving and Black Friday? I can feel the holiday spirit creeping in. I haven’t started watching any holiday movies yet, but I have done some holiday browsing, it’s hard to resist the temptation when so many stores have their displays up and gifts out. As always, I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea for this week’s Friday Favorites. Here’s some things I’m loving this week.

The Crown-Although I started season 5 last week, I didn’t want to list it as a favorite until I finished the season. Wow, this season was so good, It felt different than past seasons since it was getting closer and closer to current times. I loved the fashion, the plot lines and the casting. I think they were spot on with the casting, especially when it comes to the mannerisms. It also felt a bit different watching this season compared to ones in the past since Queen Elizabeth is no longer here. Now the waiting begins for season six, the final season of The Crown. If you are craving more Royal or Crown insight, be sure to follow Elizabeth Holmes on Instagram. I’ve mentioned her on here before but she is great for fashion insight and royal background.

The Younger Wife– Another week, another book. I have been doing all the reading this fall. The Younger Wife by Sally Hepworth is my latest read. I saw other bloggers write about it a few months back and decided to give it a try. It follows the story of a heart surgeon who decides to remarry even though his wife is still alive and has dementia. His grown daughters aren’t on board at first, but come around to the idea, that is, until they uncover some secrets about their parents. From the father and mother, to the young bride to be, and the grown daughters, it turns out, everyone is keeping secrets. I enjoyed this book thoroughly; I only wish it didn’t end. It was definitely worth the read and will have you wanting more once you finish.

Chocolate Covered Ritz Crackers-I mentioned that I haven’t been watching any Christmas movies or shows yet, doesn’t mean I haven’t been getting into the holiday spirit in other ways. I was at Target and saw some festive treats and had to try them. My first purchase was these chocolate covered holiday Ritz crackers. They are the perfect mix of sweet and salty. You don’t need to have many until your craving is satisfied. I know I will definitely be buying them again ahead of the holidays. These would be perfect for an appetizer night.

 

Leather sneakers– We have been experiencing very fall like weather with chilly but dry days, that was up until this week when we saw snow. When it hasn’t been snowing, I have been putting on these sneakers to wear out and about, whether it’s to the store, a quick walk or out to dinner. I got this pair by Steve Madden from DSW, but I have seen similar styles at Target, Marshall’s and T.J. Maxx. I love how they can dress up or down an outfit, they are sporty and comfortable. Definitely a good fall shoe and can be worn to transition between seasons.

Banana Recipe Help!- I’ve been doing a lot of baking lately, from cookies to breads and muffins. Baking, reading and walking have been my fall hobbies. Bananas are such an easy thing to eat and bake with, but I’m looking for more recipes to try besides just breads and muffins. If you have a favorite banana muffin, would you mind sharing? I’ve been searching on Pinterest but am always looking for new things to try especially with the holiday and baking season approaching.

That’s just a look into some of the things I’m loving this week. Tell me how are you getting into the holiday spirit? Let me know in the comments below! Happy Friday!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #14

Hello all! 

Happy Friday! I hope you had a great full week of November. It’s been a busy week, so I was happy to enjoy a few days with limited plans. As always, I have another edition of Friday Favorites and today as I team up with with  Erika and Andrea.

I hope today’s post gives you some inspiration for new things to read, watch, and get organized ahead of the holidays.

Here’s a few things I’m loving.

Ticket to Paradise-With so many movies going straight to streaming, I haven’t been to the movies for a while, so I was very excited to head to the big screen to see Ticket to Paradise. I love watching George Clooney and Julia Roberts interact on screen together, so this was another treat to see them back together. The movie follows a divorced couple who reunite and slowly start getting along once again. This movie was filled with beautiful sights, great one liners and laughs too. This is a great rom com to watch with your girlfriends or take your mom for a mother-daughter date! It gets 5 Stars from me.

The Last Mrs. Parrish– I know this is an older book, but it was new to me. The Last Mrs. Parrish a suspenseful book with a touch of mystery and intrigue. It follows the story of a young woman who wants to befriend a wealthy woman to get close to her husband. The first half of the book is told from one point of view until it switches to another character’s perspective, and you see the story through an entirely different lens. This book will make you angry at some of the characters, but you won’t want to put it down at the same time. I finished it in less than a week and keep talking about with all of my friends. I’ll definitely be reading more of Liv Constantine’s books. 

Kindle App-Speaking of reading, I love to read hard or soft cover books as opposed to them on a tablet or app, but I was so hooked on The Last Mrs. Parrish that I downloaded it for free on my Kindle app so I could read on the go. I’ve done this with books in the past and it really encouraged me to read when I had downtime as opposed to just scrolling on social media. You can buy books or read others for free. I personally just like reading free books through Prime reading, but you can get so many other titles when you purchase them. This is definitely a great tactic to use if you are looking to read more but don’t want to bring a book everywhere.

Notes App– I have talked about all my many uses for my Notes app on my phone but I have been using it a lot more recently with the holidays coming up. I’ve been keeping lists of gifts to buy, activities to do and things to remember. I follow Emily Ley’s system by using three emojis followed by what each list is for. This is such an easy way to keep track of things and have everything you need to know or remember with you at all times.

From Scratch– Have you seen this mini series on Netflix?! It’s so good and worth the watch. The mini series follows the story of a young man and woman who meet in Italy and fall in love. The show chronicles their ups and downs as a couple. Everything from making career moves, to handling large family dynamics, dealing with heartbreak, illness and falling in love. It was such a beautiful journey to watch unfold from start to finish. Just be warned there were a few tear jerkers. The best part is that it’s based on a true story!

That’s just a look into some of my favorite things right now. Tell me what are you loving this week and looking forward to this weekend? Happy Friday and happy weekend!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #13

Hello everyone and Happy Friday! It’s been a week! From Halloween on a Monday, to starting a new month on Tuesday and then a mix of weather. I was very happy to see the weekend. I like the beginning of November since there’s time to rest a bit before the hustle and bustle of the holidays and the end of the year. 

I have a fun roundup of favorites for you today as I link up with  Erika and Andrea for Friday Favorites ,it’s a good mix of movies, books, activities and food!

The Weekend Away– I know it’s not a new release but it’s new to me. I recently watched The Weekend Away on Netflix, and it was the perfect mystery and scary movie for me. I’m not big into scary movies, but I do love a good mystery and plot twist. The movie follows a young mom who spends a weekend away with her best friend. After the first night, her best friend ends up dead and everyone including the main character becomes a suspect. There’s lots of intrigue and a few plot twists you won’t see coming even up to the last few minutes of the movie. Definitely a good movie to watch if you want a scare, but nothing too scary.

Book Lovers– If you are in the mood to curl up with a good book on a chilly November day, then consider reading Book Lovers. It follows the story of a book agent from New York City who takes a trip in a Hallmark-esque town in North Carolina. This type-A young women is perfectly content with her life in the city but quickly learns that life’s not so bad in a rural town, that is until she learns her rival is visiting the same town. Will they stay competitors, or will a new chapter be written? You will have to turn each page to find out. This book is written by Emily Henry, and I have loved reading her books over the past few years and this one was no different. A great book that you will finish in a breeze.

Spare-Speaking of new books, Prince Harry’s new book cover and synopsis was released last week. Spare is set to hit shelves on January 10. I already have my copy pre-ordered. I can’t wait to read about Harry’s life from his perspective. From my past posts, you have probably picked up that I enjoy following the Royal Family so I’m very eager to read his thoughts. Plus, this gives me something to look forward to in the new year after the holidays are over.

Old Navy Sales– I stopped into Old Navy last week and they had so many sales going on. From jeans to blouses, coats and graphic tee-shirts. There was something for everyone. Plus, they already have some of their Christmas gear out and I may have picked up a holiday shirt and some Christmas pajamas. There’s so many different prints and patterns, you can go crazy! Plus, this is a great time to stock up on things while they are on sale as they switch their seasonal clothes out. 

Elk Watching– This is a different kind of favorite, but I went Elk watching last week and had such a fun time and it was a really unique experience. I had to get up extra early and travel to southeastern Pennsylvania to see the elk in their natural habitat. I got the chance to see them in the field and then up close by the road. It was definitely a once in a lifetime experience.

That’s a look into some of my favorite things this week. Tell me, what are you looking forward to this weekend?

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Friday Favorites

Currently #12

Hello All!

Happy Friday! I hope you all had a great week and are looking forward to the weekend and have something spooky planned for Halloween. I know this weekend I will be enjoying some fall trail mix (I like to add candy corn to mine for some extra fall fun) and maybe a Halloween movie or two.

Such a tasty and easy trail mix.

I’m linking up with with Erika and Andrea for today’s Friday Favorites. Here’s some things I’ve been loving this week.

Nora Goes Off Script-I know this was a big summer book, but I just got around to reading Nora Goes Off Script and it was worth the wait. It follows the story of a screen writer for Hallmark-esque movies and one of them gets picked up for the big screen and the crew comes to shoot some scenes at her home. This newly divorced mom is thrown through a loop when the lead actor asks her to stay at her house for a week once they wrap. Will he just stay in the guest house to clear his mind or will the two of them have their own Hallmark movie ending? You will have to read to find out. P.S. the curveball at the end caught me totally off guard, if you’ve read it already-let’s chat!

The Empress– Besides watching Gilmore Girls this fall, I’ve been watching a few mini series and have found a few that I’ve really enjoyed. I finished The Empress on Netflix last week. It takes place in Austria in the 1700’s and it tells the story of a young girl who is chosen to marry the emperor and become the next empress. The costumes, setting and cinematography are to die for! It is originally in German, but you can watch it in English. There’s only six episodes so you can finish it in a weekend or week depending on how fast you are at binge watching. There was definitely a few cliff hangers which has me wondering if there will be a season 2?!

The Crown Season 5 Trailer Released– Speaking of Netflix, the trailer for season 5 of the Crown dropped this past week and it has me so excited for November 9th. From the new cast to the storylines and the drama that we know unfolds with it. I can’t wait! I’m curious to see how this season will play out and where it will leave for season 6, the final season. Once the series is done, I’m looking forward to going back and rewatching it from the beginning in one consecutive take. 

Meghan Markle in Variety– Sticking with the Royal Family, Variety released the cover and story with Meghan Markle last week. It was delayed due to the Queen’s death in September, so I was excited to finally read it. I loved all the photos of Megahn in the spread, I think they did a beautiful job capturing Meghan and her story. I really liked how the article was a Q and A format and found so many of her responses to be genuine and real.  She touched on everything from the Queen’s passing to her current projects and favorite snacks! I’m looking forward to seeing what she works on next. 

Midnights-Taylor Swift dropped her new album Midnights on October 21 and wow, what an album. I wasn’t sure what to expect since her recent albums have been so different from one another but I have really been enjoying it. I’ve been playing it in the car going to and from work and running errands. I think Taylor’s vocal range and talent was showcased in this album, if you are a Taylor Swift fan, what’s been your favorite songs from it?

That’s a look into some things I’ve been loving this week! Tell me, what’s been a favorite of yours this past week? Let me know in the comments below! Happy Friday!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #11

Happy Friday! Last week has been filled with so much fall fun! I’m looking forward to more of it this weekend! I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea for today’s Friday Favorites to share five favorite things I’m loving this week.

Hocus Pocus 2– I finally watched the new Hocus Pocus movie and loved it. I always look forward to watching the first one every year and didn’t know what to expect with the new movie. There were so many Easter eggs tucked throughout the movie. The best thing about the movie was seeing all the original cast members. Definitely a fun, family movie to add to the holiday lineup.

Family movie night this spooky season!

Apple Nachos– I’ve been enjoying so many apple recipes over the past few weeks. From breads to muffins and pies. This past week, I made a fun snack that was certainly a crowd pleaser. I saw a recipe for apple nachos on Pinterest and had to try it. It’s super easy to make, simply slice an apple, or two or three, drizzle caramel sauce and then your favorite toppings. I added some nuts and m&m’s. It was so easy to make and tasty too.

A delicious fall treat!

Cover Story– I finished another book that I couldn’t put down. Cover Story tells the story of a young college girl, named Lora who meets a young heiress, named Cat during a summer internship. The two become friends and Lora ends up becoming Cat’s ghost writer. However, Cat has some secrets that Lora looks to uncover. This has some of the Inventing Anna vibes if you watched the Netflix series last year. Between the plot twists and bombshell ending, I couldn’t put it down. 

Cuyahoga Valley National Park– Last week I went to Cuyahoga Valley National Park for a fall walk and picnic. I walked eight miles and saw so many beautiful sights and waterfalls. It was the perfect fall day and loved getting fresh air and lots of exercise. It was so fun to try a new place and enjoy the autumn season!

A gorgeous fall walk!

Gilmore Girls-As I type this post, I’m enjoying my newest favorite, Gilmore Girls. I just started it and have fallen in love with it. I love the relationship between mother and daughter, the sweet town and all the fall vibes. It’s been on my watch list for the longest time and I’m so glad I finally started it.

That’s a look into some of the things I’ve been loving. What’s something that brought you joy this week? Let me know below!

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Fashion

Bringing Blazers into Outfits

Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! Today, we are talking fashion, especially fall fashion. One of my favorite things about the fall season is layering clothing, from sweaters, to jewerly, even blazers, there’s so many fun ways to layer clothing and make your outfits cozy, comfortable and professional for fall.

When it comes to work outfits, wearing blazers is one of my favorite pieces of clothing to layer and accessorize. You can pair a blazer with dress pants, a skirt, even a dress. I love how one piece of clothing can tie a whole outfit together or completely change it. 

Here’s a few ways that I incorporate blazers in my wardrobe.

With Dress Pants

I love wearing a blazer with dress pants to layer an outfit. Not only does it keep you warm, but it also looks more professional and put together. I got this blue blazer by J. Crew a few weeks ago and I couldn’t wait until the fall to wear it. I love how the neutral colors of the tan, blue and white. This is such a timeless and classic look that can be worn in any season. I also love the cut and fit of the jacket.

The classic blazer look

As a Pop of Color

Another fun way to wear a blazer is by using it to bring in a pop of color. Here’s the same dress pants and white top with a red blazer. Notice how even with the same pants and top, the blazer completely change the look of the outfit. That’s something I love about blazers, it changes the feel of the outfit.

Same basics, different blazer.

With a Skirt

This photo is from a few years ago, but I still wear this outfit to work. This gray blazer works great for a matching gray skirt or even black or gray dress pants. I like how a blazer can elevate the look of just a skirt and a blouse. This outfit works great for meetings or interviews or a day in the office. Even though the shades are a bit off, the blazer still works great.

Elevating a skirt and blouse.

With a Dress

This is more of a different look, but sometimes wearing a blazer with a dress could help double as a coat. It breaks up the the look of just one solid dress. I wore this light purple dress, but since there was a chill in the air, I added this black blazer as a jacket and for some dimension to the dress too. 

Adding a blazer adds dimension and warmth to a simple dress.

Those are four easy ways to add a blazer to you wardrobe this fall season.

Tell me how you incorporate a blazer in your closet? Let me know in the comments below.

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #9

Hi everyone! 

Happy Friday! We made it through our first week of October! Woo Hoo! It’s really starting to feel like fall as we are consistently in the 50’s degrees. 

Hello F A L L

As always, I’m linking up with  Erika and Andrea for this week’s Friday Favorites. Here’s some of my favorite things this week.

J.Crew Trench Coat

I got this coat for Christmas a few years back and it’s one of my favorite things to wear in the spring and fall. Not only is it professional for the office by wearing a dress, skirt or dress pants with it, but you can also wear it with jeans or leggings for a casual look. I know I have talked about this trench coat on my blog before, but I had to share it again since I’ve been wearing it a lot over the past few weeks. It keeps me warm; I love the cut and style and quality. Even if you don’t want to go with J.Crew, I highly recommend investing in a trench coat for the spring and fall and even cooler summer nights too. 

Trail Mix

I always keep my eyes open for fun, seasonal snacks when I am out and about, and I picked up this trail mix from Target. I have been munching on this sweet treat for lunch since it’s the perfect mix between sweet and salty. There are peanuts, peanut butter chips, raisins, pretzels and chocolate chips all mixed in. It satisfies the sweet and salty tooth and tastes like fall too. I’m excited to see what other fall treats will be hitting the shelves soon.

Pinterest Boards

Speaking of fall, I have been so inspired by Pinterest lately. I haven’t decorated my front door and porch yet for fall, but when I do, I have plenty of ideas saved from Pinterest. I’ve been so inspired by front doors set up with pumpkins, mums and fall vegetables. I also can’t wait until more leaves start to change for fall walks and drives. I have spent some time outdoors and just seeing some leaves fall got me excited for what’s to come. You can follow me on Pinterest here.

Apple Glaze Cinnamon Swirl Bread

I had some leftover apples and made this delicious and sweet apple bread. It was so tasty that it could be enjoyed as a dessert with a scoop of ice cream. I found the recipe on Pinterest and will be sharing with you in a few weeks. I love using the fall as a time to test out new recipes.

Fall TV is Back!

Some of my favorite weekly shows are back on tv this week. I’ve been catching an episode of the Masked Singer here and there. It’s always a good show to put on in the background and try and guess who’s under the mask. This year they are unmasking more people each week which has been an added twist. Grey’s Anatomy returned last night! There’s a new class of interns to meet this season and I’m looking forward to seeing how their storylines unfold. Ellen Pompeo won’t be in this season as much so I’m curious how the season will go/feel without her in every episode. I’m looking forward to seeing how it all unfolds.

That’s just a look into my life this week.

Tell me: what are some favorite things you are loving this week? Let me know below!

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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?