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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #91

Hello All! Happy Friday!

I hope you had a great week. I can’t believe we are at the end of April. It has been a busy month full of work projects, spring fun, family time and dates with friends. This week’s Friday Favorites is a fun roundup of new things I have purchased or been given over the past week or so and I can’t wait to share them with you today as I link up with  Erika and Andrea for another roundup of Friday Favorites.

Library Books in Calendar– This was a recent life hack that I wanted to share. I’m a library book girl through and through. I typically make a weekly stop to the library to either pick up or drop off a book. In the past, I would write in my planner or phone when a library book was due, but I was getting confused when I had multiple books checked out and it was hard to keep their due dates in order. Now, when I add a library book due date to my planner, I write the book title, so I know when each book is due. It may seem like a silly life hack, but it’s been super helpful especially with multiple books out and to make sure I avoid late fees.

Net Positive Podcast- I mentioned a few weeks ago that my brother and I went to see one of our favorite comedians, John Crist perform. We really loved the show and I have started to listen to his podcast now too. Net Positive can be found on most platforms and episodes last between an hour to an hour and a half. He mostly talks about life; current events and he adds his own humor to the show. Episodes drop once a week and although I haven’t been listening every week, whenever I am on a long drive or am looking for something funny or light-hearted to listen to, this is my go-to. Definitely worth the listen.

Car Cup Holders– I got these car cup holders for Easter and they have been the cutest pick-me-up. They fit right into the cup holders in your car in the front seat. They help protect your cup holders and keep things clean. I love cute monograms and these are the cutest accessories for the car. I got them off Etsy and they have been making me smile whenever I get in my car. 

New Hand Lotion– Speaking of new things, I was due for a new hand lotion and have been loving this new scent from Bath and Body Works. Chasing Fireflies is a vanilla scented lotion that’s not too strong. I also like how it’s not too thick when you apply it. I like the mini lotions to test out the scents before I commit to the full body lotion. Definitely a scent worth choosing for spring.

Dear Edward– I finished this book at the start of the month and couldn’t stop thinking about it. It’s all about a young boy who is the only survivor of a plane crash. He loses his entire family and is forced to start over with his aunt and uncle. The book goes back and forth between the plane crash and the present day as Edward grows up. Once I finished the book, I watched the series on Apple TV. Although there were some differences between the two, I really enjoyed seeing how the show was adapted from the book. It was so cool to see the characters I thought about come to life.

That’s a glimpse into life as we say goodbye to April and Hello to May! Tell me, what are you looking forward to next month?

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #89

Hello All!

Happy Friday! I hope you are having a great day as we gear up for what’s hopefully a spring-like weekend. I’m seeing more and more signs of warmer weather which makes me extra giddy for April and May and everything that comes with it.

I have some exciting weekend plans with friends that I’m looking forward to and a fun date night, in other words, let the weekend begin!

Before we get to the fun, I want to share some of the things I’m loving this week as I link up with with  Erika and Andrea for another edition of Friday Favorites.

Simplified Launch Day-It was launch week over at Simplified. They had their cover reveal last week and they launched their new products on Wednesday. I am in love with their patterns for the new season. I always go for their yearly planner, so I won’t be purchasing mine until the fall. I am a weekly girl through and through and I love how they are going to have a coil as opposed to a bound one. The hardest part is going to be choosing a pattern. Here’s some of the ones I have my eyes on. 

New Leggings– I mentioned last week that I did some browsing at Old Navy and picked up a few items on the clearance rack. One of the things I picked up were these light pink workout leggings. Whenever I head to the gym, I prefer leggings due to shorts, even in the summertime. I also like leggings that have slim pockets in them, so I can put my phone in them when I am out on a run. These leggings checked all the boxes for me. The best part? The can be mixed and matched with tops, and they were on sale! 

Chocolate Covered Orange Sticks- Continuing with my Trader Joe’s haul from last week, I picked up chocolate covered orange sticks to try and they are the perfect treat at the end of the day. I have been enjoying a few of them at night to satisfy my sweet tooth. I love anything covered in chocolate and these are the perfect mix of sweetness without it being too overpowering. I’ll be on the hunt the next time I’m at a Trader Joe’s for any other flavors.

New Apple Watch Band– I’m an Apple watch lover and recently got a new band for my watch from Amazon. I typically wear the same band every day, unless I have a special occasion and I want to dress up my wrist. I got a new lighter blue band which is perfect for spring. It’s also a thinner band too, which I really like since it looks more feminine and not as bulky. It’s always fun to switch things up when you wear them all the time and Amazon always has such a good selection when it comes to inexpensive Apple Watch bands.

Bridgerton New Trailer– The new trailer for season three of Bridgerton dropped this week. I have loved the first two seasons and I can’t wait for season three. From the casting, to the setting and storylines, Bridgerton is the perfect show to escape with. The first set of episodes drops on May 16 and the second set drops on June 13. I can’t wait to learn more about Penelope and her love life this season.

There you have it, keeping it short and sweet this Friday morning (or afternoon) depending on when you are reading. I hope you have a wonderful weekend and are doing something enjoyable and fun!

See you back here on Wednesday!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #88

Hello all!

Happy Friday! We made it through the first week of April. I hope you had a smooth and successful week and are ready for the first weekend of the month. The month of March was a mixed bag of weird weather, we had some really nice and sunny days in the 60s, and other days in the 30s and snow. Here’s hoping this next month brings more consistent temperatures-especially spring-like weather.

As always, I am linking up with  Erika and Andrea for another roundup of Friday Favorites. I’ve been doing some spring shopping, so I’ll be spreading out my favorite finds over the next few weeks, so you aren’t bombarded with them in one post. Let’s jump into some of my favorite things today!

Red pants– I finally made a trip to Old Navy to see if they had any fun spring finds. After lots of trying on clothes, I only left with a few items. But I did manage to snag these red pants that were on clearance. WIN! I tend to lean more towards a straight pant leg as opposed to a full or tight pant leg, especially in the office, but I really loved how these looked. These would be great for work or a business-casual setting. Even though they are a bold color, you can go with a simple color for a the top (like a black, blue, or cream) or with a busier top to balance them out. I’m looking forward to adding these to my rotation over the next few months. 

Everything Bagel Seasoning– I don’t have a Trader Joe’s near me, but whenever I am close to one, I always like to pop in to see what they have and try some unique foods and snacks. I always stock up on Everything Bagel seasoning. It is one of my favorite blends of seasonings and flavors. I add it to my chicken, pasta, toast, and eggs, etc. it adds just enough flavoring to spice up a meal without overpowering the dish. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on a new bottle.

Bridgerton and Bath and Body Works– Did you see the new collaboration between Bath and Body Works and Bridgerton? These are two of my favorite things and I couldn’t be more happier to see a collaboration between them. I love all the scents that come with Bath and Body Works and now knowing candles, lotions, wall flowers and soaps were inspired by Bridgerton’s characters, places, and themes. I may have to buy some and put them away for when I need re-stock.

Cabrini– My family and I went to see Cabrini right before Easter and really enjoyed it. It tells the story of Saint Francis Xavier Cabrini and the work she did here in America with the poor and orphans. The movie talks about the challenges she faced, the obstacles she overcame and the lives she touched. I had learned about her growing up, but it was fascinating to see her ministry depicted in a full-length film. It was a long movie, so if you plan on seeing it, budget in time to watch. Definitely worth the watch, but you don’t have to go to the theaters to enjoy it.  

The Sweeney Sisters–The Sweeney Sisters was the second book that I’ve read by Lian Dolan. I read Lost and Found in Paris and really loved how she told the story, so I was eager to read another one of her books. This story follows three sisters as they cope with the death of their father only to learn they have a sister who was their neighbor growing up. The book is all about how they work through this new information and how the revelation brings them together. I really loved the themes of sisterhood, forgiveness and maturity that were found in the book. But my favorite part was the fact that one of the characters was named Elspeth. I have a unique name, so I am always surprised when I read or see my name out in the wild. There’s a new show on CBS called Elsbeth which always makes me smile even though it’s pronounced and spelled differently.  Overall, I really enjoyed the story and will be reading more of Dolan’s books.

That’s a look into what I’m loving this week, some recent buys, foods, and entertainment. If you are still recovering from Easter or Spring Break, what’s been on your radar?

Let me know if the comments below!

Happy Friday!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #87

Hello all! Happy Friday! We just about made it through March. Is it just me or is spring flying by?! I think a lot of it has to do with the fact we had such a mild winter. I love the sunshine, blue skies, and signs of a new life. It is Easter weekend here. 

Signs of spring

Although, earlier this year, the Easter holiday is such a good reminder that spring is right around the corner. I have a few fun Easter traditions planned for this weekend with family which I’m looking forward to. 

While we wait for the weekend, here’s some things I have been loving this week as I link up with  Erika and Andrea for another edition of Friday Favorites.

Strawberry Body Scrub– Let’s talk beauty! I got this body scrub as a gift and finally got around to using it. It’s been such a fun treat and product when I am getting ready in the morning. This full body scrub not only smells fresh and fruity, but I love the way it leaves your skin feeling. It especially feels great on rough or dry areas, like your hands or feet. Although, I tend to use scrubs more when I’m taking a bath, I have been using it in the shower too. I may save it to use in the spring and summer too as a way to pamper myself. 

Spring Jacket-Although, the sunshine is here, it still can be chilly which is why I am all about light jackets. I got this jacket for Christmas from Lululemon and I have been loving it in the spring. I love the color and the lightweight material too. I only have a few pieces from Lululemon and while they are expensive, they are great quality and I truly enjoy wearing them for out and about and working out.

Reading on my Phone– I never thought I would say this, but another favorite of mine from this week has been reading on my phone. I am a physical book gal, through and through, however, I have been downloading books through Libby (a library app) and have been reading on my phone a lot more. This typically happens when I am waiting for appointments or meetings. I don’t necessarily want to bring a big book with me, but I also don’t want to just sit and scroll on social media. Reading on my phone allows me to enjoy a favorite hobby and I feel more productive than just mindless scrolling. Although I read way more physical books than digital ones, it is nice to always have a book with me wherever I go. Plus, it’s easier when I’m traveling and I don’t want to lug a big book or two with me.

Chocolate Covered Almonds– Another food favorite. I am not a big almond person, they are my least favorite kind of nut, but we picked up these chocolate covered almonds from Wegman’s (a local grocery store) and they are addicting. We finished the container in a few days. I love a good sweet and salty mix (that’s my favorite kind of flavoring). The dark chocolate covering compliments the almond perfectly. These would be a perfect addition to a snack board or just eaten on their own. I enjoyed a few of them at lunch during the work week and it was just enough sweetness to satisfy my sweet tooth. I’m all about trying new snacks and these didn’t disappoint. I will definitely be buying again.

Edamame– I have been on an edamame kick recently. I used them for my salmon bowl recipe a few weeks ago and then included them with a sushi night. After having leftovers, I brought some in to enjoy at lunch. They are so easy to make, I just buy a store package, pop them in the microwave for 15-30 seconds and then you have a tasty and healthy snack. Although I love adding them into stir fries and salads, I enjoy eating them as is with a dash of salt. Yum! I’m a big veggie gal and I’m always looking for different ones to try and incorporate in my meals.

A favorite snack!

That’s some insight into what I’m loving this week. Some life hacks, clothing choices and food. You never know what you will get with Friday Favorites. I hope you have a wonderful Easter weekend if you celebrate. See you back here on Wednesday as we say hello to April!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #86

Hello all!

Happy Friday! I hope you have had an enjoyable week and are ready for the weekend. We are officially in the spring season despite a few days of chilly temperatures and snow.  Easter is just over a week away and even though it is earlier this year, I am ready for all the hope and promise that a new season brings.

A beautiful, spring like day!

As always, I am linking up with  Erika and Andrea for another edition of Friday Favorites. I have a mixed bag of things that I am loving this week and I hope you have found some moments of joy too.

Made in Italy– This is an older movie, but I think it is still worth recommending. Made in Italy follows the story of a young man who works with his estranged father to rebuild their old home in Italy that’s been empty for years. After a strained relationship, this project brings the two of them closer together as they work to rebuild the house to re-sell. However, as they near the end of the project, the decision to move on becomes an issue and the two must set work through their differences to find a common goal. Liam Neeson stars in this movie that is perfect for a cozy night in. I watched it on Netflix but it can be found on other streaming services as well.

St. Patrick’s Day Outfit– I am not a big St. Patrick’s Day fan, but I do try to wear my green on and around the holiday. I went to our community’s St. Patrick’s Day parade and wanted to dress up and be festive for the big event. We had gorgeous weather for the parade. It was mid 50’s with sunshine and blue skies, you couldn’t have asked for better weather. Some years, it has been gray and rainy and cold, other years; they have even had to cancel the parade due to snow, this year, it was perfect! I decided to pair my favorite dark wash jeans from Old Navy with a green turtleneck and a Blackwatch plaid blazer from J. Crew. I have been loving bigger/longer blazers to add to outfits and this one didn’t disappoint. What I love about this blazer is that you can dress it up with a dress, skirt, or dress pants, or dress it down with jeans. Plus, I was comfortable with the weather that I wasn’t too hot or cold. I finished the outfit off with a pair of boots and green jewelry.

Grey’s Anatomy article– Last week I talked all about the premiere of Grey’s which was so good. It picked up right where it left off from last season. Although there will be fewer episodes, I’m looking forward to seeing the storylines this season tackles. This season also brought a new showrunner. She has been with the show from the beginning and I’m excited to see how she takes the reigns. This article does a great job of introducing her to those who may not know her.

This is Me Now Documentary– I mentioned Jennifer Lopez’s movie, This is Me Now a few weeks ago. After I finished the movie on Amazon Prime, I jumped right into the documentary that takes you behind the scenes of the creating of film. I love seeing all the behind the scenes of a production and found this documentary to be fascinating. I learned so much about Lopez as a performer, creator and a businesswoman. It was interesting to see her ideas transformed onto the screen. Plus, I loved seeing all the sweet moments captured between her and Ben. 

Crab Cake Recipe– I have been on a seafood kick but trying different recipes on Pinterest and through cookbooks. I enjoy food and making different meals and it’s been fun to try and experiment with new flavors and ingredients. I have always enjoyed a good crab cake but was always intimidated by them. However, once I found an easy recipe on Pinterest, I decided to give a try and was surprised at how easy it was to make and how good they tasted too! I already had most of the ingredients on hand and the prep and cook time was very manageable. 10/10 would recommend trying this recipe if you are interested and also I hope this encourages you to step out of your comfort zone if you are looking to give a new recipe a try but are just scared to not know where to begin. Here’s the recipe if you want to try it yourself.

That’s a quick roundup into things I am loving this week, some food, movies, and beauty items. Tell me: what do you weekend plans entail? Something fun, I hope, regardless, I hope you have a fantastic weekend!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #85

Hello all!

Happy Friday! I hope you have been having a great March and spring season. I am loving the extra sunshine, warm weather and time outdoors. 

As always, I’m linking up with with Erika and Andrea for another weekly edition of Friday Favorites as I share some of the things that I have been loving this week and are on my radar. Here’s been some of my favorite things:

This is Me Now– Have you seen Jennifer Lopez’s movies/biography on Amazon Prime? It’s called This is Me…Now. It’s based off her latest album about her life and love over the past 20 years. I have always enjoyed JLo, but was never a huge die-hard fan.  I truly enjoyed her creative way of bringing her music to life and it’s evident in this film. The movie is only an hour long, but it’s packed with incredible choreography and music. It also can lead you going down the rabbit hole reading all about her past and current loves. Definitely worth the watch!

Avocado Crackers– If you have read any of my past posts, you know I am a sucker for trying new snacks. I spotted these avocado crackers at Wegmans and had to try. I love all things avocado and these didn’t disappoint. I love the crisp. crunch and flavor they provide. There is a little bit of kick to them which I appreciate too. You can enjoy these on their own, but they would also taste great with some cheese, hummus or dip. Perfect for a spring snack!

American Royals Series- I talked about the first book a few posts back, but the past few weeks have been filled with my binge-reading my way through the American Royals series.  Wow, once I started, I couldn’t stop. It typically takes me about a week to finish a book, but I was finishing them in less than a week because I couldn’t wait to find out what happens. Each book ends with a cliffhanger that will lead you to picking up the next month. I loved the plot of a royal family in America, I loved the characters and how they grew up and evolved through the four books and I loved all the little Easter eggs sprinkled throughout. If you are looking for a good series that’s PG-13, this is a winner-especially in the spring!

Spring Weather-Speaking of spring, I have been LOVING this spring weather. We may have had a mild winter, but I am here for the consistent warmth and sunshine. Last week, I packed clothes to go on walks after work three days in a row and I couldn’t have been happier. I also made it to the Zoo for a trip this year. The sunshine is giving me life right now and I couldn’t be happier.

Grey’s Anatomy is Back– After a long overdue wait due to the writer’s strike and the actor’s strike. Grey’s Anatomy finally returned yesterday. This season will be much shorter, but I’m still grateful we are getting a season to begin with. Depending on when you are reading this, I may or may not have watched the episode yet. I am looking forward to seeing what’s going on with my favorite characters at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital. I have been a fan of the series for years and have loved seeing how the show has evolved and how characters have changed and come and gone. I’m eager to see how this season unfolds.

That’s a look into some of my favorite things from this week. Some clothes, some entertainment and some snacks! Tell me, as we are fully in spring, what are some things you are loving?! Let me know in the comments below!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #83

Hello all!

Happy Friday! Also, happy first day of March! Is it just me or did February fly by? January was slow and steady, but February happened in the blink of an eye, but it was filled with all good things, from family time, to soaking up the outdoors, and celebrating Valentine’s Day!

Now that we are in a new month, I’m feeling extra excited about the possibilities of spring, warmer weather and more sunshine! 

As always, I am linking up with Erika and Andrea for this week’s edition of Friday Favorites. Here’s some things that I have been loving.

Brown Sweater– I popped into T.J. Maxx last week for some browsing. I wasn’t planning on making any purchases, but I saw a few things that caught my attention and ending up purchasing. A new, long, brown sweater to wear at work was one of them. One of my most common phrases that you can hear me saying at work is “I’m cold or it’s cold.” I am always chilly no matter the weather. It could be 75 degrees outside, and I would still have a sweater on inside. Needless to say, I always have a sweater or light jacket at work, so they tend to get some wear and tear. I have gone through two work sweaters and this brown sweater is my third. I previously had white and tan sweaters. I like that this sweater and the ones I have worn in the past are comfortable, come in neutral colors, and professional looking enough that I can wear it around the office. I was in need of a new sweater and T.J. Maxx had the answer.

Pink Jacket– Speaking of T.J. Maxx, I also found this pink cropped jacket that can be dressed up or down. You can wear it with dress pants (think black, blue, or white), a skirt, or a solid dress in the office. You can also dress it down with leggings or jeans and boots to elevate your look. I love the color and the style and the versatility that it provides. You never know what you will find when you stop in T.J. Maxx.

American Royals– After hearing about this series over the past couple years, I am finally making my way through the American Royals series. The four-book series follows the tale if America had a monarchy. Think a mix of the Royal family in Great Britan meets America. I love all things about the Royal family, so this has been such a treat to read. Book one really sets up all the characters and the plots and leaves the reader with a cliffhanger that will make them want to start reading book two right away. I’m currently making my way through book two and can’t get enough of the relationship drama, family dynamics and “history”.

Buffalo Chicken Dip– I love all things appetizers, dips, and snacks. I would choose those over a big meal any day. One of my favorite dips/snacks is Buffalo Chicken Dip. You can enjoy it with chips, bread, crackers, but my favorite way to enjoy it is with some fresh veggies. We made it a few weeks back with this recipe and it was a hit. I enjoyed it with my family and ate some leftovers for lunch in the coming days with veggies. 

American Nightmare-Have you seen the new Netflix documentary, American Nightmare? It’s all about a couple who gets attacked in their home and the girlfriend gets kidnapped. I finished it in three sessions, there’s only three episodes and they are only 45 minutes long. I could have finished it sooner if I had the time. There’s definitely some twists and unexpected turns that I wasn’t anticipating, but would definitely recommend it if you are a fan of true crime.

That wraps up this week’s Friday Favorites, short and sweet, some entertainment, some recipes and some clothes. 

As we embark on a new month, what are some things you are looking forward to? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy March!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #82

Hello All!

Happy Friday! I hope it has been a great week for you as we get ready for another weekend. I hope you are able to fill your cup with what matters most, whether it’s family time, some extra sleep, or a fun excursion. As we make our way through February I am getting set for another round of fun favorites from this past week. These are little things that have brought me joy and I hope you are finding things that have made you smile this past week too.

Let’s jump into this week’s Friday Favorites with Erika and Andrea.

Office Ladies and the Lazy Genius Collaboration– I love the Office and I love the podcast, The Lazy Genius. When I heard they were a part of the same network, I couldn’t wait to see what it would bring. Kendra joined the Office Ladies podcast for an episode and in return, the Office Ladies made an appearance on The Lazy Genius. I loved hearing about their collaboration and how Kendra helped both Angela and Jenna lazy genius different parts of their lives. If you are fans or both or either of these, give both of them a listen. You can find The Lazy Genius episode here and The Office Ladies episode here.

Coloring Books– I always loved to color as a child and got back into it in college. Once again, coloring has found its way in my life and I’m not complaining. I enjoy the calming activity if I’m watching a show in the background or if I’m sitting and just relaxing. I also enjoy coloring or doodling if sports are on and I’m only semi paying attention. Haha! I know studies have been done about the relaxing technique between coloring and I have found that it  calms me down and is a soothing activity. It has definitely brought me joy on chilly winter days.

Thicker than Water– I finished Kerry Washington’s memoir “Thicker than Water” last week. I was captivated from start to finish as she talked about her upbringing, getting into acting and secrets about her childhood that she learned as an adult. It was a fast read as I finished it cover to cover in four days. Washington focused more on how she got to where she is today more than her career in tv and film. I really appreciated her candor about tackling different challenges as she grew up. Washington covered a lot of topics in an earlier interview she did this year with ABC back in September. I would recommend watching that as a companion to reading her book.

Sanditon- I heard about this PBS mini series from The Lazy Genius. In Kendra’s newsletter she talked about how she has been into all this Jane Austen, including this mini-series about one of Austen’s unfinished books. I am currently watching this series on Amazon Prime and have been loving it. The series follows a young woman who goes to live with a family who has plans to build up a town by the water. There’s romance, drama, dealing with the class system and of course a beautiful backdrop where it all takes place. If you enjoy old British shows or movies, give it a try!

Brownie Truffles– As we close out this edition of Friday Favorites, I wanted to share this sweet treat I made last week. I have always been intimidated by making truffles, but I found this recipe from Hershey’s (one of my favorite companies) and had to try it! The recipe was so easy to follow and they came out delicious! Super easy for any party or gathering and they were a hit with my family.

That wraps up today’s Friday Favorites! Some entertainment, recipes, and family fun! 

Tell me: how are you filling your cup this weekend? I hope you make it a memorable one!

Happy Friday! 

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #81

Hello all!

Happy Friday! I hope you have had a smooth and successful week and were able to celebrate Valentine’s Day or Galentine’s Day. We made it to Friday which means the weekend is just hours away! I don’t know about you, but I am ready for the weekend.

Some sweet treats from Valentine’s day!

As always, I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea for some of my favorite things this week for this week’s edition of Friday Favorites. This is a mix of some books, music, food and some recent refreshes.

Let’s dive right in!

New Chair Cover- I’ve had the same desk and chair in my room since the second grade (yes, I still live at home and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made). The desk and chair are in great condition, however, they have endured wear and tear over the years, so I’ve had to get the chair re-upholstered a few times. This chair covering has gone from pink, to checkered, and now patterned. After more rips and tears, I decided to get it cleaned up again, rather than buy new. I found some of this patterned Paris fabric from a local remanent store and brought it to an upholstery store to get it fixed up. I’ve had it on my to-do list to get fixed for months and I finally got accomplished it. I’m so happy I was able to keep what I had and spruce it up rather than buy new. If you are looking to update something in your home, here’s your sign to do it.

New Lock Screen- Speaking of refreshes, this may sound silly, but I updated my lock screen for my cell phone and it was such a good reminder that the little things truly make the biggest difference when it comes to bringing joy in my life. I found this picture on Pinterest and swapped out the colors for my clock. I had a winter/Christmas background and now this one of Paris reminds me of the month of love. It’s a small change, but it makes me smile especially as we make our way through a new month. 

Little Italian Hotel– I finished “The Little Italian Hotel” on Libby this past week. I listened to it as an audiobook and loved my experience with it. I don’t often listen to audiobooks, but I decided to give it a try and was so happy I did. The story follows a talk show host who ends up taking her anniversary trip alone. Rather than go with her husband, she invites four strangers to accompany her. The five people bond over heartbreak and become friends as they create memories during their three-week trip abroad. I listened to the book in the car, while I was jogging, and while I was cleaning and doing things around the house. I like the narrator’s voice and she had me hooked the entire time.

Stir Fry- I have been enjoying easy meals this winter. I love easy soup and sandwich nights, a soup and salad for lunch or a stir fry. A hearty stir fry has been a go-to for lunches and dinners. I love this meal because it’s a great way to use what you have in your fridge and not waste food, it combines a lot of food groups, and it’s fast. This past week, I used leftover ground beef, rice and some frozen veggies to put together this meal in under 20 minutes. Major win! I also have made chicken stir frys, veggie frys and shrimp stir frys too….the possibilities are truly endless. 

Billy Joel’s New Song– I know this is a few weeks old, but I have been listening to Billy Joel’s new song “Turn the Lights Back On”, non-stop. This is the first song he has released in 30 years and it’s so good. I love the message and the melody. I really appreciated his performance during the Grammy’s too. If you haven’t listened to it, give it a listen.

That’s a look at some of the things I have been loving this week.

Tell me, what are some of your favorite things from this past week?

Let me know in the comments below!

Have a great weekend!

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Friday Favorites #80

Hello! Hello!

A happy Friday to you all! I hope you had a wonderful first full week of February! We are just under a week away from Valentine’s Day, are you planning on celebrating this weekend or waiting until the day of? I’m planning on doing a little bit of both. As we await the weekend, I’m sharing from favorite things from this past week as I like up with Erika and Andrea.

I have some snacks, shows, books and fascinating reads. Let’s dive right in!

Lost and Found in Paris- I picked up this book after seeing it pop up on a few blogs late last year and was expecting a chick-flick/rom-com-esque story and I got so much more than that. Lost and Found in Paris is about a young woman who travels to Paris for work after a major shift in her relationship. She’s hoping to find herself and deliver a piece of artwork to a client. When the artwork goes missing, she’s forced to go on a bit of a treasure hunt around Paris with someone she meets in the city of lights. Through the course of the book, she learns more about herself than she was every anticipating. I loved this book and it’s in the running for a top book of the year.

My Life with the Walter Boys– This mini-series came on Netflix at the end of 2023, and I had it on my watchlist for a while before I finally got to dive in. Once I started, I finished it in a week and really enjoyed getting to know the characters and the story. It’s all about a young girl who moves in with a large family filled with boys, all of whom she’s never met. She’s forced to navigate high school, new friendships, a budding relationship and some drama along the way. It has some high school drama vibes (very PG-13), but a cute show to get lost in over the winter months.

Such a cute min-series

Reese’s Dipped Animal Crackers-If you like a perfect mix of chocolate, peanut butter and crunch, this may be the snack for you. I have seen these on the shelves for weeks if not months and finally decided to give them a try and really enjoyed them. I have a huge, sweet tooth and chocolate and peanut butter is one of my favorite combinations. I loved the sweetness and saltiness these snacks provide. I will definitely be getting them again, plus how can you resist anything from Hershey’s?!

Roasted Chickpeas-From indulging to healthy choices. I also saw these on the shelves at the grocery store and was intrigued. I love Everything Bagel seasoning from Trader Joe’s (even though we don’t have one near us, whenever I am near one, I always get their seasoning.) These roasted chickpeas are the perfect snack to munch on if you are looking for something healthy that cures a salty fix too. I have just been enjoying them on their own, but I think they would taste great in a salad too.

Hard Seasons and Wild Hearts– I have always been a fan of Brene Brown and her books and Ted Talks. She’s been pretty quiet over the last few months, and she came out with a long essay last week talking about what she’s been up to and where she plans to go from here. In this essay she discusses the challenges and hurdles she’s overcome and how she’s still healing, recovering, and learning from them. Not only did I appreciate the update, but I also found the advice about overcoming the tough seasons in life and how to move past them to be relatable too. Definitely worth the read.

That’s a brief glimpse into life nowadays and things that have been bringing unexpected moments of joy! This weekend, I challenge you to find the pockets of joy every day! Happy Friday!