Tag: ina garten

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Currently

Currently #62

Hello everyone! Happy Wednesday! We made it to the end of February! I don’t 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 I’m 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. Here’s what the past 28 days looked like.

What I’m 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 Valentine’s Day leading up to and on the day.

Cut-out cookies for the holiday
And more tasty treats
Valentine’s Day goodies

I also got a haircut and switched up my hair style

What I’m Reading: I had such a good reading month! I can’t 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 Elvis’. 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 Adachi’s 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 Galloway’s Half Marathon: You Can Do It is a beginner’s 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 I’m 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 I’m excited to see who wins it all!

What I’m 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 Gartner’s outrageous brownies. They were good but not great. I’ve tried a few different homemade brownie recipes and have yet to land a winner. Until then, I’ll 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 Ley’s homemade grilled cheese and tomato soup and it was so easy and hit. I can’t 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. It’s 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 Gyros
Homemade Hummus and Pita

Chicken Caesar Club Sanwichs– This was such a hearty and tasty meal that was a hit!

What I’m 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 Valentine’s 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!

That’s a look into life as of late. A lot of time indoors, self care, and some socializing. I’m 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!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #131

Hello All! Happy Friday! I hope you have had a great week and month! Can you believe we are almost to the end of January?! This month has felt long mostly due to the cold temperatures, gray skies, snow and not too much opportunity to head outdoors. I’m hoping for warmer and brighter days ahead, but that’s up to Mother Nature. In good news, today’s batch of Friday Favorites is making me smile and I hope it will do the same for you! 

Cold days calls for warm cookies

Here’s some things that I have been loving this week as I link up Erika and Andrea for Friday Favorites. I have spent a lot of time indoors, so just as a warning there are a lot of movies and tv show recommendations coming your way.

New Body Wash– My brother got me this body wash for Christmas and I couldn’t wait to try it in the new year. It’s lavender scented which is perfect for evening showers and tubs to relax and unwind. I love that it’s not too fragrant and you only need a little to get enough of the scent and to feel squeaky clean. I also like that it’s made from healthy ingredients. 

Mufasa– I have been on a movie kick recently. There have been a lot of good movies out and worth seeing in the theater. At the beginning of the month, some of my family members and I went to see Mufasa, the origin story to the Lion King. I recently saw the traveling Broadway show of The Lion King and I was already in the Disney mindset so the timing of this movie was perfect. I really enjoyed the way they told the story of Simba’s dad and appreciated the Easter eggs in the other films. The music was so well done and I think they did a great job with the animation. If you don’t have a chance to check it out in the theater, definitely watch it on Disney Plus when it comes out.

Night Agent Back– One of the series that I watch made its return last week, The Night Agent. I was tied up with other commitments, so it took me a while to catch up, but now I’m locked in for the season. The first few episodes have kept me entertained and intrigued about what will happen next and what the season will bring. If you watch the show, what are your thoughts on it? If you are looking for something new to watch, I would recommend this! I am always looking for new suggestions of things to watch. If you have any good shows or movies, drop them below! 

Be Ready When the Luck Happens– I just finished this book this past week and talked about it in Wednesday’s post. Ina Garten’s memoir, Be Ready When Luck Happens really touched me. I really really loved this book. I heard about it on the podcast, Books Beach and Beyond and after hearing Garten’s story, I knew I had to read it. I didn’t know much about Ina but learned so much about her life before she was well know for her culinary skills. I love how she talked about the lessons she learned along the way and how she was vulnerable at times too. I also loved how she talked a lot about her background and what she learned through different jobs and life experiences.

New Kylie Cosmetics Lipstick– I was out of my red lipstick and was in search of a new one and decided to try Kylie Jenner’s matte red lipstick, An Apple A Day I use Kylie’s lip kits for work, but this was the first time I tried a matte lip stick and was very impressed by the long-lasting quality and feel. It gave me great coverage and color for hours. I didn’t have to reapply once and it lasted a good three to four hours after I put it on and after I ate and drank. Major wins for me!

That’s a look into what I have been loving this week as I deal with more wintry weather. What are some things that have brought you joy over the past few days?! I would love to hear! Have a toasty weekend!

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Currently

Currently #61

Hi everyone! Happy Wednesday! I hope you have been having a great week. We are at the end of the month which means it’s time for another Currently post. I don’t know about you, but this has been a long month.

Most of January has looked like this, lots of snow!

I am ready to see the calendar switch from January to February. Although, it was a long month, I got a lot done and enjoyed the winter season the best I could even with chilly temperatures and lots of snow! It’s been a while since my last post, so I have a lot to catch you up on. Here’s what the past month has looked like.

What I’m up to: I started year with lots of cleaning and organizing. I have been following the Simplicity Challenge through Simplified to tackle little tasks each day, rather than trying to organize your whole house in one go. 

Some of the spots I organized, a full recap will be coming next month!

When it hasn’t been too frigid out, I have gotten outside a few times for winter walks with my dogs. The blue skies are such a breath of fresh air. 

A day outside makes everything better

We got a new indoor mini golf spot in town and my family and I tried it out. It was a lot of fun for a chilly afternoon.We wrapped the afternoon up with some tasty treats.

A fun day mini golfing
Such a cool set up
Fun outings to local bakeries makes the winters better

I made the most of the winter weather by getting in some pond skating. We haven’t had weather cold enough for the lakes and bays to freeze over, so this was a huge perk to our rough winter.

Our man-made rink

What I’m Reading: I have read a lot since my last Currently, here’s a look at my bookshelf.

The 5 AM Club– The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma, is one of the best books I have read. It was uniquely written, but so informative about the best way to elevate your mornings and change your life by getting up early and how you can work on yourself! Such a life changing book! It’s a fictional book about people who meet at a conference and go on a retreat together about how to live their best lives. I learned so many life lessons that I will be holding onto for a long time.

Every Time I Go on Vacation Somebody Dies– Catherine Mack’s Everytime I Go on Vacation Somebody Dies is about a mystery novelist who goes on vacation and people on the trip start dying or think they are going to die. It’s a bit of a “who done it” with drama. I listened to it as an audiobook, but got a little confused with the footnotes, so it may be a better book to read.

The First Ladies– The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray was a fascinating book about the friendship between Eleanor Roosevelt and Mary Bethune. A little slow at points but overall very interesting and informative. I loved how it followed their friendship through the years. I also recently the Six Triple Eight which touches on their friendship too which was so fun to watch!

A December to Remember– Jenny Bayliss’ A December to Remember was a good winter/Christmas story, but hard to get into at certain time with lots of different plots happening. I really loved the message of sisterhood and family and a small town coming together when three sister’s fathers unexpectedly died. They must come together and face their past for a greater cause. 

Seven Days of Us – Seven Days of Us by Francesca Hornak was a good book about a family trapped together in quarantine around the holidays. I loved learning about family dynamics. There were also secrets spilled through the book. A holiday read with some substance.It almost reminded me of the movie, The Family Stone with all the different dynamics. 

Educated– Tara Westover’s memoir, Educated was a heavy book to start the year. It was definitely interesting to learn about the Mormon customs and traditions and I loved the first hand account, but it was definitely a heavy book and serious topics too. I had heard so much about it that I’m glad I had the chance to read it.

Here One Moment–  Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty follows the story of a woman who tells everyone on a plane how and when they will die. It’s up to the passengers about what they want to do with the information, change their lives or keep living them as they were. The beginning was a bit slow and hard to get into but the middle and end went really fast. The ends no tied everything up in a meaningful way and it really gives you a lot to think about with living your best life to the fullest

Be Ready When the Luck Happens– Ina Garten’s memoir, Be Ready When Luck Happens really touched me. I really really loved this book. I heard about it on the podcast, Books Beach, and Beyond and after hearing Garten’s story, I knew I had to read it. I didn’t know much about Ina but learned so much about her life before she was well know for her culinary skills. I love how she talked about the lessons she learned along the way and how she was vulnerable at times too. I also loved how she talked a lot about her background and what she learned through different jobs and life experiences.

What I’m Watching: With lots of time indoors, I have had time to catch up on many shows and movies. I watched the latest season of Virgin River, which is always a fun show to enjoy.

I also finished Outlander, I can’t wait for the final season to come out soon.

I’m currently watching Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test every week on Fox.

My boyfriend and I are also finishing up Breaking Bad and are on the last season. We are open to suggestions for a lighter show to start next if you have any suggestions!

These shows are keeping me busy especially on days inside.

What I’m Cooking/Baking: More time indoors means more time in the kitchen! After lots of holiday baking, I have been focused on warm and hearty meals for the new year. Here’s what I have been cooking.

Cold days calls for warm cookies

Pulled Pork Tacos– I love a good pulled pork sandwich and this was a unique spin on it. I enjoyed eating the pulled pork with a taco shell as opposed to a bun, plus the ratio of wrapping to meat was a lot more manageable. I got the recipe from Shay Shull of Mix and Match Mama. 

Clam Chowder– Another Mix and Match Mama recipe. I love a seafood and this clam chowder was super easy to whip together and very filling too!

Stuffed Chicken Parmesan– This was a fast Sunday night dinner thanks to Jessie James Decker. You can serve it with pasta or salad or Both!

Goulash– This was a perfect meal for a cold day! Yum!

Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs with Salad and Homemade Croutons- my mom and I spent a Sunday in the kitchen and she taught me some of her favorite recipes. Such a wonderful moment shared!

Homemade Brownies– After reading Ina Garten’s book, I wanted to try some of her recipes, including her outrageous brownies! They were a hit!

What I’m Wearing– Due to cold temperatures, I have been wearing all the layers. From turtlenecks, to blazers, and sweaters. Here are some of my recent outfits for both work and play!

A black and white combo!
A sparkly combo for the new year
A gray combo for warmer days
Lots of layers
And turtlenecks too

What Inspires Me: Emily Ley shared this quote for the new year and I saved it as my phone background and I have it on my desk at work. Such a good reminder!

What I Accomplished: I’m proud of all the organizing and tidying I have gotten done by being cooped up indoors over the past month. 

Another space I organized

I’ve also made some progress with my New Year’s Resolutions this year which is always a good feeling and I have made headway on my Winter Bucket List!

Goals from Last Month: I certainly have started some of my New Year’s Resolutions and have been adapting my new year’s motto in my everyday life by not rushing around and being calmer about my days. I’m eager to continue this practice in the next month and through the year.

Winter has returned
Making the most of winter mornings

Goals for this Month: I love the month of February to celebrate Valentine’s Day. I’m also looking forward to a weekend away and time with friends too. 

But, most of all, I’m looking forward to longer and warmer days and hopefully more sunshine!

That’s a look into what I’m currently up to! What has the past month looked like for you!? I would love to know, until then, have a great rest of your week and I’ll see you back here for Friday Favorites!

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Currently

Currently #58

Hello All!

Happy Wednesday and may I add, happy Halloween Eve!

Are you all set for the big day? I don’t have too many big plans for the holiday, but I will be enjoying some candy, treats and maybe a Halloween movie to celebrate.

Fall in full effect!

October was all enjoying the beautiful fall weather. We had gorgeous weather, and the leaves and foliage showed off all month long. I tried my best to pack in as much fall fun as I could and I think I did a pretty good job at it. This post is full of fall fun, you have been warned.

What I’ve Been Up To: 

This month began by running my furthest distance, 10.5 miles which I was VERY proud of. I had gorgeous weather and more than enough time to pace myself and enjoy the journey. 

I’ve really enjoyed finding new places to run in my community and have been discovering hidden gems along the way.

Early morning run
Another new spot to run

I also enjoyed some solo dates to the library and taking the time to browse and read and not rush to another errand.

Snapshot from a recent solo date

I made a few trips to different farmer’s markets to pick out pumpkins and fall decor which is always a fun outing for me. 

October also brought seeing the Northern Lights from my backyard which was an incredible experience. 

Plus, we got to see a beautiful, full moon.

I got to do one of my favorite fall activities which was apple picking and made some sweet treats from it as well.  

What I’m Reading: 

I had such a good reading month with lots of different genres of books. 

The Plan– I kicked this month by reading The Plan by Kendra Adachi. This is Adachi’s third book and it’s all about planning, organization, and compassionate time management. She lays out ideas and principles for how to plan and organize your life, but the best part is that you can tailor it to your own wants and needs. I found myself taking notes while reading it and have applied so many principles to my own life. If you have read or listened to Adachi’s podcast or books, you can almost hear her voice across the pages. 5 Stars from me!

The Summer Pact– The Summer Pact by Emily Giffin was a heavier read, but I’m glad I read it. I have read other books by Giffin and really enjoyed them. The book follows three friends who lose one of their friends to suicide in college but remain close through the years. When one of the characters go through a major life change, they go on a trip to reconnect and get their lives back in order, but they learn more about each other and all go through major life and growth moments on the trip while remembering their fourth friend. I really loved the themes of friendship, growth and maturity that were found all through the story. I would recommend, but just be warned that suicide is discussed in it. 

The Home Edit- The Home Edit by Clea and Joanna was just a fun read for me. I love all things organization and this gave examples with pictures of how to organize different areas in your home. I loved all the scenarios they created for what spots you can streamline in your space, no matter how big or small. 

The Lost Letters from Martha’s Vineyard– The Lost Letters from Martha’s Vineyard by Michael Callahan was a book I picked up on a whim and I’m so glad I did. It follows the story of a rising Hollywood star who leaves the spotlight after a summer in Martha’s Vineyard. What happens that summer that caused her to leave it all behind? I really loved the mystery that came with this book, but it jumps back and forth from the past to present which always keeps my attention. The description of Martha’s Vineyard was dreamy too. This was such a fun read after a heavier book. 

Darling Girls– Darling Girls by Sally Hepworth had been on my to be read list for a long time and I’m so glad I finally got around to reading it just in time for spooky season. It follows the story of three girls who grew up in foster care and how their past becomes part of their present when a body is found under the home they grew up in. There were so many changes in the plot that I had a hard time keeping up, but this book was so good and worth the wait to read it. 

Lies and Weddings– Kevin Kwan’s Lies and Weddings was a fun read but you do have to be plugged in while making your way through it. Kwan is the author of Crazy Rich Asians so I knew I was in for a treat with this one. He was recently on the podcast, Books, Beach and Beyond and I loved learning the behind the scenes scoop. It tells the story of a young man from a healthy family who’s mother wants him married off, but there’s a method to her madness. Throughout the book, lies, secrets and family histories are revealed and not everything is as it seems. The only critique is that there was a lot of characters and it took focus to keep them all in order, otherwise, it was a great read!

My What If Year- My What If Year by Alisha Fernandez Miranda is all about a woman who is a wife, mother and CEO and as she enters hr 40’s she decides to try different jobs and internships for a several months. She tries careers she has always dreamed of and gets a first hand look at what they entail. I loved reading about this woman’s journey and hearing what she took away from the experience.

What I’m Watching:

I have been making my way through Gilmore Girls which has been a fun escape for the fall season.

I also watched the latest season of Outer Banks. It started out slow but they picked up and now I can’t wait for part two to be released next month. 

I also made my way through Nobody Wants This which was a hit on Netflix and already got renewed for season 2!

Plus, I have made time for the classics like It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown.

What I’m Wearing:

My wardrobe hasn’t been too exciting as of late, a lot of layering for when it starts cool and then warms up.

What I’m Cooking:

Here’s been some of my favorite new meals:

I have been busy in the kitchen this month thanks to checking out different cookbooks from the library like Magnolia by Joanna Gaines and some of Ina Garten’s cookbooks.

Roasted Keilbasa, Carrots and Sprouts– This was perfect for fall and was so tasty to heat up the next day.

Snickerdoodles-A fall must have!

Speaking of treats, one of my most recent treats…snickerdoodles!

Homemade gumbo– I found this recipe in Magnolia and was a bit intimated by it, but it wasn’t as tricky as I thought and it tasted so warm, a great late summer or early fall soup!

Apple Cider Donut Cake– I have been baking all things Apple, including this apple cider donut cake which only has a few ingredients that I’m sure you keep around your home!

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip muffins– Another welcome to fall and only three ingredients! 

Pulled Pork Tacos– I love a good taco night and this was a fun and flavorful twist on this!

Pumpkin Black Bean Chili- I love a good chili and you can cook this in the stove or in the slow cooker and you will have a delicious meal. Not a bad meal idea for Halloween too!

Chicken Cordon Bleu- I was intimated to make this at first, but it was fairly easy and a warm and hearty meal too.

What Inspires Me:

I have been inspired by all the fall weather and changing of the leaves. I’ve really been trying to make it a point to really be present outdoors and take in nature.

Just look at this beauty
So many colors!

Here’s a few quote that have really resonated with me too!

What I accomplished:

I really have made so much headway with my bucket list. Here’s how it started and how it’s going. 

My boyfriend and I also had a packed full fall day and did all the festive things which was so fun!

I also got to listen to a presentation by journalist and sports analyst Stephen A Smith. It was fascinating to hear his take on sports, the media, journalism and our currently political climate. 

Goals from Last Month:

I got some much fun fall activities in, plus I spent time with friends and although not all together, I got lots of family time in too which is always a treat. 

Beautiful fall drives

Goals for this Month:

I’m really going to try to be present and do all the prep work before the craziness of the holidays. I also have a weekend trip planned, some big work projects to tackle and then Thanksgiving! So maybe it won’t be as calm as I hoped? Haha! We will have to see!

Thanks so much for stopping by for a look at life lately and what I’m currently up to.

Have a happy Halloween and I will see you back here on Friday!

One last fall walk!