Hello everyone and Happy Friday! Have things finally settled and back to normal for you after the holidays or are you still in the season of craziness? Things are back to normal for me which always makes me a little sad since I enjoy the holiday season so much, I’m planning finding the joy in every day to fight the post-holiday blues.
It may be a new year, but I’m still here linking up with Erika and Andrea for Friday Favorites.
Here’s what’s on my radar this week of things I’ve been loving as we come down from the holiday high. Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing some gifts I got for Christmas and some new items and tools I will be using in the new year when it comes to organization in addition to my favorite things from the week. Let’s jump right in!
2025 Journal-Journaling is something I enjoy doing every morning. I like to take the time before the day gets busy to reflect on the day before, the highs and lows, what I’m grateful for, and what’s on my mind. This is my journal for 2025 and I have been loving it already. There’s space to share your thoughts at the start and end of your day and there’s a mix of open and close-ended prompts too. 2025 has just started and this has already become a favorite of mine!
Daily Reflections– I mentioned last year that one of my favorite things was a podcast called “The Simple Sophisticated Podcast with Shannon Ables. In addition to her podcast and blog, she has also written a few books including this one, The Road to Le Papillon, it was released in 2022 and it’s a book of daily reflections. I have really enjoyed starting my day with my journal and a daily reflection in addition to my quiet time. Starting my day in a calm way has made such a difference and I can’t wait to continue it through the year.
2025 Planner– I have teased this favorite a few times over the course of the year, but with a new year comes a new planner. I purchased my 2025 Simplified planner in September and I’m finally able to use it!!! I love the pattern and the message behind it and details. I am still getting used to the spirals and the larger format, but so far it has been working out great. One of my favorite days of the year is getting my planner all ready to go to use. These pages will soon be filled with lists, to-do, plans, and memories.
Dress from Ann Taylor- This is another recent fashion favorite of mine. I purchased this dress from Ann Taylor just before Christmas and have already worn it a handful of times to work and out and about. There are so many things that stand out about this dress. I love the colors, the style and the material. It gives off a very elegant look, but it’s so comfortable. It doesn’t hurt that I got this dress on sale too! Although it has short sleeves, I have worn it in the winter and it can be layered with a blazer too. I love a dress that can be worn in different scenarios.
Virgin River New Season– The new season of Virgin River came out just before the holidays, but I was wayyyyy too deep into holiday movies and shows to watch. Now that things have calmed down and are back to normal, I’m excited to get back into the series and catch up with all things Mel and Jack and Virgin River. This will be a good show to watch in the cold, winter months. I’m looking forward to what this season brings. If you have already seen it, here’s a great article to follow up with the season.
I love the holiday season and are always sad when they come to an end, but these list of favorites has me something to look forward it.
Although, the holidays are over, what are you looking forward to in the next few months? I would love to hear from you.
Happy holidays! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas Eve and Christmas Day!
Here’s how I celebrated the day!
A quiet nightLots of cookies-my contribution this yearAnd so many snacks!
Although, I am working around the holidays, it is still nice to take things a bit slower and enjoy the time with family, friends and loved ones. The time between Christmas and New Year’s is always funky, so I hope wherever you are, you are enjoying what you need most, whether it is rest, family, activities, cleaning, or Christmas cheer!
It’s Friday which means it’s time for Friday Favorites, my final one of the year! This year flew by and I appreciate you reading my posts, whether you have been a long time reader or this is your first time here!
Here’s been some things I have been loving this Christmas week as I link up with Erika and Andrea.
Blue Light Glasses– I have always had pretty bad vision, I started wearing glasses since I was nine, then began wearing contacts in college and still wear them today. I will wear glasses on my days off, so I still get the best of both worlds. I spend a lot of time looking at screens between work and home, so I decided to try a pair of blue light glasses to reduce eye strain and give my eyes an extra layer of protection. I picked up a pair of stylish readers with blue light in them and have been wearing them at work. I have noticed a decrease in headaches I was getting from staring at screens all day long and they have been a cute accessory too. I’ll keep you updated on my thoughts on them in the new year.
Shoe Bag– This is not a new item, but something I have been getting a lot of use out of lately. A few years ago, I got a shoe bag to transport my shoes to and from work every day in. I use it on days when we are getting lots of snow or rain and I’m wearing boots to work but want to change into my nice, dress shoes when I get into work. This bag has been extremely useful over the past few weeks with all the snow we got. This bag would work great for both guys and girls and it’s very practical too.
New Shoe Boots– After talking all about a bag to place your shoes in, I figured we had to talk about some shoes too. I was on the hunt to replace an old pair of shoe boots and found these leather ones on sale at Marshall’s. My previous shoe boots were suede, so these have held up a lot better. I love the look at the thicker heel. I have worn these with jeans, leggings, skirts, and dresses. These shoes have been so versatile.
Meet Me Next Christmas– If you are still watching Christmas movies I like am, might I suggest, Meet Me Next Christmas. It came out on Netflix this year and it’s all about a guy and a girl who meet and hit it off, they make plans to meet in one year at a Pentatonix Christmas show if they are meant to be. Plans get derailed when the show is sold out and the girl can’t get a ticket. The movie follows the lengths she will go to get the ticket. The movie is filled with Pentatonix Christmas songs and the group makes an appearance themselves too. This movie is very cheesy, but cute too.
Peppermint Chocolate Loaf– I have been doing so much baking over the past few weeks and have been trying my hand at some new recipes too. I baked this Peppermint Chocolate loaf and it was divine. I love anything chocolate and peppermint, so this checked all the boxes for me. I gave it as a gift to someone and baked one for myself too. I will be making this next year for sure!
That’s a look into life lately and some favorite things of mine. I promise I will have a lot more favorite items in the new year. I hope you have a wonderful weekend, New Year’s Eve and I’ll see you back here on New Year’s Day for my 2025 Goals and Resolutions. See you then!
I hope you are having a lovely December so far! I have been doing my best to savor the Christmas season in between the daily to-do lists and the to-do lists that come with the holiday season.
My pups getting into the holiday spirit with all the snow.
This is truly one of my favorite times of the year, so I’m trying to soak it all up. I have some fun holiday fun planned for this weekend which I’m very excited about.
As I wait for the holiday fun to begin, I wanted to share some things I have been loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea.
Special Forces Casting and New Season– Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test announced the casting for their new season and launched the trailer. I’ve enjoyed watching this series over the last few years and I’m always excited to see who joins the cast. Some of the challenges seem pretty daunting and I know I could never tackle them, so it’s always interesting to see who makes it out on top. You can watch the trailer here. It comes out next month!
Geek Girl– Have you seen Geek Girl?! It’s been on Netflix for a while, but I just got around to watching it. So far, there is only one season, but it’s super cute. Episodes are only about 30 minutes so they are easy to watch. It’s all about an average looking girl who gets picked to be a model and her world turns upside down. It takes place in London and I love all the references and the setting. Definitely a cute show to watch if you are looking for something new to watch.
Pandora Broadway Tracks-Besides listening to Christmas music 24/7. I have been on a Broadway kick lately on Pandora. I am a big podcast listener, but have been changing it up with Pandora. Broadway hits has been my go-to after seeing the new Wicked movie last week. I love the variety of music and genres the station plays and it has even introduced me to some new shows and artists.
All The Colors of the Dark–All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker came out in August and I have been wanting to read it after hearing rave reviews about it. I finally got a chance to check it out at the library and finished it in two days. One because it was so good, and two because there was a wait list for it and I couldn’t renew it. It starts out with a murder and kidnapping in the 1970’s, but follows the characters through decades of their lives as they grapple with different things thrown their way. There were beautiful moments, heartbreaking scenes and times where you want to throw your book across the room. But overall, I loved it and would recommend it to anyone who asks. It’s in the running for my favorite book of the year.
New Holiday Scent- Are we surprised this is a Friday Favorite?! The holidays mean seasonal scents and it was perfect timing to break out my new holiday scents from Bath and Body Works. You may remember I got these scents as a gift last year and I saved them for this holiday season. I’m so glad I saved them and had them to look forward to for this Christmas season. I love the scent and the holiday cheer these holiday scents bring.
That’s a look into what I’m loving this week as we are in full on Christmas mode. I hope you have a great weekend and are doing something fun and festive! See you back here on Wednesday as I share my Christmas Bucket List!
Happy Black Friday! I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving surrounded by family, friends or loved ones.
Here’s how I celebrated the day!
I started the day with our Turkey Trot 10K and hit a new PR!
I made it home to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
We enjoyed Thanksgiving with family and had a relaxing afternoon.
I’m not a big Black Friday shopper, I may do some browsing, but I don’t go all out. Our family typically decorates for Christmas today, which is one of my favorite traditions. I’ll be sharing some photos next week.
Before I start decorating, I wanted to share some favorites with you today as I link up with Erika and Andrea. Just head’s up, there’s a lot of holiday favorites once again! Let’s dive in!
List of Holiday Movies and Shows– Speaking of the holidays, there’s nothing that goes better with a Christmas cookie than a hot cup of cocoa and a holiday movie. I came across this list from TVLine of all the traditional holiday movies and specials and when they will air. I can’t wait to add them to my calendar and watch them all as the season progresses. This would be a great page to bookmark and refer to through the season.
Wicked– I saw Wicked when it came out last weekend and I was blown away. I think they did a great job with the casting. I loved the costumes and the cinematography as well as the setting. I definitely think it lived up to its expectations. It was a longer movie, but the music, singing, dancing, and plot moved it along. I know I will be listening to the soundtrack for the foreseeable future.
Phone Holder– I got a phone holder to prop up my cell phone at work and it’s been a game changer. I am always on my phone at work and for years I have just had it next to me or propped up on random items, but now having something to prop it up so I can see things on my phone has been a huge help. I even got it for free at an event which makes me even happier.
Night Agent Trailer- A lot of my favorite shows that I follow on streaming services are getting ready to return for new seasons including the Night Agent. The show is all about an overnight agent working for the government who is forced to step up and take on a new role to save the government from going corrupt. The first season was really good and I’m excited to see what the second season will bring. You can watch the trailer here.
New Starbucks Drink– Calling all Starbucks fans! Did you get your free red cup last week? I know I did! It was pretty warm, so I opted for a refresher as opposed to a warm drink. I love Starbucks refreshers in the summer, I typically drink a Mango Dragonfruit Refresher with Lemonade in the summer. I opted for the Merry Cran Orange Refresher and I loved it! It was refreshing, but also very fall-like. I love the taste of fresh cranberries! What’s your go-to Starbucks holiday drink?!
That’s a look into life lately and what I’m loving. What have been some favorites of yours from this past week? Let me know in the comments below!
It’s the final week of November and Thanksgiving is tomorrow! Are you all ready for the holiday? Are you hosting or attending? We will be doing a bit of both this year. I love Thanksgiving and the slower day that it brings. I plan on starting the day by running our local Turkey Trot, enjoying a family dinner, and then relaxing. On Friday, we tend to decorate for Christmas and get into the holiday spirit.
This month went by so fast! It began with a busy stretch of days for work, followed by a weekend away and then all the holiday prep! It’s been a fun month that went by too fast. Here’s a look at life currently.
What I’m Up To:
Since my last currently post, I celebrated Halloween with a festive dinner and dressed my dog up. I think he enjoyed it more than me. Haha!
A close up of dinnerI even dressed up my dog!We had lots of tasty treats!I made a festive taco soup
I started the month off by accomplishing my longest run by running over 11 miles. It felt good to get it done when the weather was still comfortable.
I also enjoyed more runs at different spots including new neighborhoods and parks. Some morning were so chilly that layers were required.
The start of my 11 mile runThe leaves looking extra prettyFrost is a sign of winterA new running spot
Over the past month, I spent time with family in Columbus for the day which included some celebratory dessert.
I also spent a weekend in New England which was decked out for Christmas and had really warm weather.
Here’s a look at some of the things I did.
I started with a smooth flight in
Enjoyed lots of walks
The HarborSome historic sitesCute neighborhoodsQuincy MarketAnd the insideI enjoyed a Lobster Roll
Views over the city
What I’m Reading:
I had a pretty good reading month, a lot of books I had on hold at the library came in which always makes me excited. I also did some travelling which led to even more reading. Next month will be all about holiday reads, I can’t wait!
Here’s what I read this month:
Husbands and Lovers– Beatriz Williams’ book, “Husbands and Lovers” follows two parallel storylines of two women, one in the present day and one in the 1950’s. The theme is all about how far a mother will go to take care of her family. I really liked the compelling storylines and the connections between the two. There was also a bit of mystery and romance in both stories. I personally liked the 1950’s storyline more, but both were interesting to follow.
Julie and Julia– I have always heard of the book and movie, “Julie and Julia”, but have never seen or read it. It’s based on a true story and it follows the story of a young woman nearing her 30’s and decides to take on a challenge of cooking all of Julia Child’s recipes. I loved hearing about all the different recipes that Julie tries and what she learns about herself along the way. I am looking forward to watching the movie, but was sad to hear that the author, Julie Powell died a few years ago.
The Mystery Guest– I really enjoyed Nita Prose’s “The Mystery Guest”. It’s all about a mystery writer that comes to stay at a hotel and right before he’s about to make a career announcement, he drops dead. Everyone in the hotel is a suspect and some have a connection to him. I love a classic “Who Done It?” I finished it fairly quickly and it was perfect for this time of year.
Summer Romance– This was a perfect palette cleanser. Summer Romance by Annabel Monaghan is about a woman who is recently divorced and is moving on from the death of her mom. She is trying to juggle a new life, three kids and a career when she meets a man at the dog park. She’s not planning on jumping back into the dating world, but life has other plans, especially when she’s least expecting it. It was a cute, summer beach read that was really a good chance of pace after some heavier reads.
Blue Sisters– I heard about Blue Sisters from several blogs from the summer and I couldn’t wait to read it. It follows the story of three sisters who come together a year after their fourth sister dies. The book tackles relations, addictions, healing, and the importance of sisterhood and family. It was interesting to hear the story told from each sister’s perspective. It was definitely a heavier read, but so beautifully done too. I can see why so many people raved about it. I finished it in one weekend.
A Most Agreeable Murder-I finished A Most Agreeable Murder by Julie Seales. It’s a “Who Done It” back in the 1700s-1800s. A ball and dinner party gets derailed when a guest ends up dead. Many people have a reason for killing him, but who did the killing? You won’t find out until the very end. A very good mystery!
The Friend Zone– I listened to The Friend Zone by Abby Jimenez and really loved it. It’s all about a girl and guy who meet in unexpected circumstances. They end up being the maid of honor and best man in their best friend’s wedding. What starts out as disdain turns into friendship and sparks of love. But secrets and shock keep them a part. I thought the story was going in one direction, but it took some unexpected twists. I really, really enjoyed listening to this book and finished it in just over a week.
What I’m Watching:
This month I finished the second half of Outer Banks season 4, which the finale left me reeling. If you watched, what did you think?!
I also watched The Diplomat’s second season which was good too!
Plus, I have been slowly watching some holiday classics too, I can’t help myself by getting a jumpstart on them!
What I’m Wearing:
The weather has changed so I had to break out the winter coats. My red jacket from Old Navy is one of my favorites to wear in the winter especially around the holidays.
I also have gotten use out of my new blazer from Old Navy for both work and play.
I also got a lot of use out of my new red, rain jacket too! Do you sense a theme with red?!
I’ve also been loving turtlenecks this season too!
What I’m Cooking:
One of my friends started to make sourdough bread and dropped off a loaf, it was a delicious for a nice soup night.
With the colder weather, I have been enjoying lots of heartier meals including:
Tortilla Soup– I love a good tortilla soup, we had this on Halloween.
Lobster Risotto– This didn’t turnout like the photo, but it was still good.
Crockpot Lasagna Soup– This didn’t turn out the way it was supposed to, but it was still warm and hearty.
Grilled Chicken Bruschetta– I got this recipe from Joann Gaines’s Magnolia cookbook. It was a hit and healthy with lots of flavor!
I also started some holiday baking which included making Halloween Candy Cookies. I have already been crowd sourcing new recipes to try this holiday season.
I also baked chocolate chip cookies. Yum!
What Inspires Me:
Here’s some quotes that have inspired me as of late.
I also have been inspired by all the holiday and start of Christmas cheer.
I picked up my Starbucks red cup for the season!
What I Accomplished: Between work, seeing friends, spending time with family, and some travel, it’s been a busy month in the best way.
A beautiful fall worth remembering
Goals from Last Month:
I did my best to pace myself before the craziness of the holidays. I also got a jumpstart on my holiday prepping too!
I also enjoyed time outdoors this fall!
Goals for Next Month:
Enjoy the Christmas season! I LOVE this time of year, from shopping, music, movies, decorations, and baking. I can’t wait to savor it all! I will be coming out with my Christmas Bucket List next week, stay tuned!
That’s a look into what I’m currently up to. I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving! I will see you back here on Friday!
Hello All! HAPPY FRIDAY! We made it through the week! This has been a hectic week at both home and work, but we made it to Friday and I’m very grateful for that. I’m hoping things slow down just a bit, but we shall see.
The last of the fall leaves
I hope you have had a great week and are ready for the weekend and maybe have something fun planned. As we move away from all the Halloween fun, I am back into fall mode, before Christmas in just a few weeks. I really like to take this time for my prep or calm before the storm. I LOVE the holidays, but I’m hoping for a few quiet weeks before the hustle and bustle.
Here’s a few things on my radar that I’m loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea.
Insight Timer– I recently started to try mediating, mindfulness, and deep breathing exercises. I have always taken time at the start and end of my day for prayer, but have also incorporated some guided breathing exercises too. I have found it to be very beneficial, especially when I am overwhelmed and stressed out. I typically take time at the start and end of my day for breathing, but have found myself doing exercises through the day too. I have been using the app, Insight Timer daily and it’s been doing a great job at holding me accountable and providing resources for guided meditations and breathing exercises. I am just using the free trial, but have been really loving it.
Atoms– Speaking of apps, I also have been using the app called Atoms to hold me accountable. The app was created by James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, a book I read this past year. I have really been loving his app which helps you track new habits or break bad habits. It sends you daily reminders about completing your tasks and gives you positive affirmations through the day as well. I have used the app to help with putting my phone down and now with meditation and both have been very helpful. I’m using the free version through this as well.
The Diplomat– Season two of The Diplomat starring Keri Russell came out last week and I have slowly been making my way through the season. It picks up right where it left off from season one. This show has me hooked with new characters, storylines and of course some crazy plot twists. The finale had me shocked and I can’t stop thinking about it. I binged a lot last weekend. You can watch the trailer here and stream season two on Netflix.
Outer Banks Part Two Out– Another season of a favorite show of mine is out. I mentioned this a few weeks ago, when the first part of Outer Banks season four was released, but now the second half was released and I can’t wait to watch. I may or may not have started depending on when you are reading this, but I can’t wait to see how season four wraps up. The premiere was really good and I’m looking forward to the rest of the episodes. The first half started out a bit slow, so I’m anxious to see what storylines get solved and what cliffhangers remain. Here’s a look at what you can expect.
Atmosphere– Taylor Jenkins Reid announced her new book coming out next summer last week. It’s called Atmosphere and I can’t wait to read it. Here’s a look at the synopsis and the cover art. I personally love the UK version more, but I can’t wait to get my hands on it. I doesn’t seem like it will be in the same universe as some of her other books, regardless, I can’t wait to read it.
That’s a look into life lately and what I’m loving.
Tell me what are some highlights from your week? I would love to hear them! Have a fantastic weekend!
How was your Halloween? Did you pass out candy, take your kiddos trick or treating or stay in for a cozy meal and spooky or not so spooky movie?
Here’s how I celebrated the holiday.
I started the morning with an early run
I made a festive taco soup
We had lots of tasty treats!
I even dressed up my dog!
I am in a busy season of life right now with work, but the light is at the end of the tunnel, which is a relief. I’m doing my best to pace myself in the midst of the craziness. Here’s a few things that have kept me grounded and brought me joy as I link up with Erika and Andrea for this week’s edition of Friday Favorites.
Zen with Jen– I have been listening to this new podcast for a few weeks and wanted to share it with you. Zen with Jen is a weekly podcast that drops on Mondays, where Jenni shares bite-size, yoga, mindfulness and mediation techniques. Each episode lasts about five minutes but it’s centered around taking time for yourself through the day. Jenni has been teaching yoga on zoom for the past few years and it’s been so nice to connect with her in a new way with her podcast. This is a great way to start my day and week.
New Raincoat- I have been on the hunt for a raincoat ever since I got caught in a rain storm in September. I was looking for a durable, waterproof coat that would keep me dry and wasn’t too boxy. I hoped to find something that was sporty but still could be worn out and about. I also wanted it to be red. I found all those qualities with this raincoat from Land’s End and as a bonus it was on sale too! I have worn it a few times and can’t wait to get more use out of it in the coming weeks.
Emily Henry New book and Cover Reveal– I am a huge Emily Henry fan and she revealed the cover and plot of her latest book that will be launching next year. You can read about it here, but it sounds soooo good. Very Emily Henry-like, but with some new flavors too. When I saw the news, I immediately texted my fellow book worms to get their thoughts on the details. If you are a fan of Emily Henry, what are your thoughts on the book?
Unfrosted- I know this movie has been out for several months, but I just got around to watching it with my boyfriend and we both enjoyed it. Unfrosted tells the story of how the pop tart was created. The concept was cute, but the all star cast of comedians was even better. There were so many cameos and I loved seeing some of my favorite cereal box characters come to life. Definitely worth the watch if you are looking to laugh.
Fall Weather– My favorite thing about this past week has been the fall weather. The leaves, the sunlight, and the warm temperatures have made me love this time of year. Pictures don’t do it justice. I have been trying to sneak out at any time I can to enjoy the leaves and crisp fall weather. My dogs have also enjoyed the warmer weather and rolling in the leaves. There is truly nothing better than getting outdoors for some fresh air after a long day.
Just look at this beauty
Pictures don’t do it justice
I can’t believe October has come to an end, I always say November is the calm before the storm, so I am going to take these next few weeks to prep. How do you like to spend your November? I would love to hear from you, let me know in the comments below!
I hope you had a wonderful week and are ready for the weekend. It’s the first weekend of October and it certainly feels like October. Fall is settling in which means several weekends of pumpkin patches, apple picking, leaves falling and cooler temperatures.
First signs of fall with the changing leaves
I’m excited to start crossing things off my fall bucket list.
Before we get to a weekend of fall fun, I wanted to share some things that I have been loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea
Midnight at the Pera Palace– The second season of Midnight at the Pera Palace came out towards the end of September and I have been slowly making my way through the season. It picks up right where season one end as storyline goes back and forth between the past and present. Although it can be hard to follow since it’s in a different language, the English dialogue does help, so do the subtitles.
Dot Pretzels-I was influenced by Erika and Shay to try these Dot pretzels and they are so good! I have only tried the original flavor, but I love the extra bite and zest they have. Definitely more flavorful than your average pretzel, but so delicious. I plan on trying on the other flavors too!
Large Lavender Lotion– I love lavender lotion and use it every night. I had been getting small bottles of lavender hand cream and lotion, but kept having to purchase refills more often than I would have liked. I decided to buy a large bottle of lavender lotion from Bath and Body Works. I love using a pump every night, it not only is softens my skin but soothes me as well. Definitely worth paying more for more product.
A Family Affair– Have you seen A Family Affair on Netflix? It stars Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron. It’s all about a widowed mom who falls for her daughter’s boss and let’s say things become quite the family affair. Although the storyline is for mature audiences, I really enjoyed watching it and I think the casting and chemistry was well done. Definitely a movie with adding to your watch list for your next movie night.
People We Meet on Vacation Casting– I’m a big fan of Emily Henry and I have read all of her books. Some are currently in the works to be made into movies or mini series, including People We Meet on Vacation! This is one of my favorite books by Henry and I can’t wait to see the adaptation. I’m familiar with some of the actors and actresses but I can’t wait to see them bring these characters to life.
That’s a look into what I’m loving this week! As we fully embrace fall, tell me what’s on your bucket list for this month?! Let me know in the comments below! Happy Fall Friday!
Hello all! Happy Friday! I hope you had a wonderful week and it feels like fall wherever you may be. September started out with summer still holding now, but now as we get closer to a new month, fall is really starting to settle in.
A crisp, fall morning by the water.
I hope you have something fun or relaxing planned for this weekend. Before you jump into the weekend vibes, I wanted to share some things I have been loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea
New Hand Lotion– As fall has settled in more, I have slowly been transitioning more of my scents to match the season and that includes my hand lotion. I tend to get dry hands, no matter the season, so I always have lotion with me. Gingham Glow has been my new scent for the fall months. I got it from Bath and Body Works and I love the subtle and warm scent it gives off. In the spring and summer, I prefer floral scents, winter I like pine or minty, but in the fall I like subtle scents and this fits the bill. I also love how the lotions come in different sizes, so if you buy a scent and don’t love it, you don’t have to commit to it long term.
New Mascara- I am always trying different makeup products and brands and decided to try Super Goop mascara. I love SuperGoop for suntan lotion and wanted to test out more of their beauty products. I have been pleased with it so far. This mascara doesn’t necessarily give full and voluminous lashes, but it does a great job of separating the lashes (if that makes sense), plus I have found the more you put on, the fuller they get. I also really love that it’s clean makeup with not as many chemicals in it. I will be using the mascara, but I’m not sure if I will reorder it.
Swan Song– I know I mentioned this book in Wednesday’s Currently post, but I loved it so much, I had to re-share. I ended summer by reading Swan Song by Elin Hilderbrand. This was her final beach read set on Nantucket as she decided to retire and I really enjoyed it. There were a lot of references to past characters from other books, and I loved the description of Nantucket and all the restaurants and hot spots. Those are always my favorite parts of her books. The book follows a couple who moves to the island and immediately makes themselves a part of the community, but there is a bit of a mystery to them especially when they hire a girl who has no connection to Nantucket either. I like how there is more substance to Hilderbrand’s books, they aren’t just light and fluffy. This was not my favorite Hilderbrand book, but it was definitely worth reading and I loved that I have really gotten into more of her books this year. Now, I just need to go and visit Nantucket after reading all about it. Add it to the bucket list!
Grey’s Anatomy Trailer and New Season– Grey’s Anatomy’s new season returned last night on ABC. After a shorter season last year due to the writer’s strike, I’m looking forward to more episodes this year. If you didn’t watch last night, you can check out the trailer here. This season looks like it will be a good one with more drama, romance and interesting patients. If you watch, what are you looking forward to most this season?
Selling Sunset– I’m not a big reality show person, but I do love Selling Sunset. I have been watching the show on Netflix for years and always look forward to when a new season drops. This season was filled with more girl drama in the office, bigger homes to sell and of course lots of drama and crazy fashion. This show is always a good thing to put on in the background for some mindless tv.
That’s a look into what I’ve been loving this week. Tell me, what are some things that have caught your attention? Let me know in the comments below! Have a great last weekend of September!
Hello All! Happy Friday! I hope you had a great week as we make our way through September and transition from one season to the next. Life is starting to calm down and my fall routine is finally taking shape. Although the fall season is only a few weeks away, the weather is still gorgeous and I’m trying to soak up as much of it as I can.
Beautiful days as we transition from summer to fall
Today, I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea for another weekly roundup of Friday Favorites. Here’s some things I have been loving this week.
Emily in Paris Season Four Part Two– The second half of Emily in Paris dropped yesterday. Depending on when you are reading this, chances are I have already started it. I really enjoyed the first half of the season and the second half takes Emily to ROME! I was giddy when I saw the trailer and Emily was at so many iconic spots I had just visited myself. I do have to say, after watching the trailer, I was a little jealous that Emily didn’t have to deal with any tourists. Haha! I’m looking forward to the season and where it takes Emily.
Outer Banks Season Four Trailer– Are you a fan of Outer Banks? I started the series during Covid and have stuck with it since. Even though it is more on the tween and teen side of things when it comes to the plot lines, I enjoy the mystery behind the storylines and the hunt for the treasure. I felt like last season really wrapped things up nicely and was surprised when it got renewed. The trailer looks good and I’m excited to see what adventures are in store for the group.
Atomic Habits– I have heard about this book, Atomic Habits for ages and I have had it on hold at the library for weeks. When it was my turn to check it out, I couldn’t wait to start reading. James Clear discusses the importance of building habits, creating routines, and starting small. He goes in-depth about the science and psychology of habits. He also gives real life examples of how to start small and build up to making life changes. I love and thrive off a good routine and rhythm and found this book fascinating. I learned so much and it really helped me better understand some of my habits and how I can build off them. Whether you are looking to create better habits or work on your current ones, I would highly recommend this book.
New Room Scent and Plug-In– My current wallflower ran out, so it was time for an upgrade. I decided to go with one of the scents from the Bridgerton collection from Bath and Body Works. The scent I chose was Queen Charlotte’s Tea. The best way to describe it is a floral scent that’s very feminine, but not too strong or overpowering. This would be a great scent to use in a bedroom or bathroom, but not a living, room, family room or kitchen where a lot of people could be in and out and may not care for the scent. I also swapped out my plug-in with a bee from the Bridgerton collection too! Too cute, just a small change for the upcoming season.
The Perfect Couple– I have been on an Elin Hilderbrand kick lately. Without planning it, I’m currently reading one of her books, listening to different one in an audiobook, and watching the third as a series. Plus, I listen to her podcast, Books, Beach and Beyond…can you say I’m hooked?! Reviews on those will be coming soon, but I have been loving the Netflix series, The Perfect Couple, based on her book. I read the book when it came out and couldn’t wait to watch the series when it was announced. I really think the series was fairly close to the book. It was interesting to see how characters were portrayed. I LOVED the setting and costumes and appreciated seeing the plot unfold on the big screen. I binged my way through the series and was sad when it ended. I love when movies or series stay true to the books.
There you have it, a fun roundup of favorites from this past week, some books, life hacks, and shows I’m loving! Tell me, what’s bringing you joy this week? Let me know in the comments below! Happy Friday! Enjoy the weekend!
