Hello all and Happy Friday! It’s the Final countdown to Christmas!
Are your cookies baked and presents wrapped? I am ready for Christmas and now it’s just about enjoying the next few days with family and loved ones. I love this time of year, everyone in my family is home for the next few weeks and between work, it will be nice to have some time to spend together.
Ready for the big day!
I have one final Christmas round-up of Friday Favorites. Today, I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea for a very festive edition of Friday Favorites.
Here’s what I’m loving this week:
Red Lipstick-I’m not a big, bright and bold lipstick person, but I do tend to wear it around the holidays. I have been wearing and loving red lipstick this time of year. I like to use it as a pop of color to break up a solid outfit, like a black dress. I also like wearing a red lipstick with my red coat that I got at Old Navy last year. I break it out around Christmas and Valentine’s Day for a fun pop of color. My go-to color is from CoverGirl. It’s long-lasting and doesn’t smudge. Two wins in my book!
A red lip makes everything fun!
Gingerbread recipe– I have been doing a lot of baking and trying new recipes. I tried my first Gingerbread loaf recipe, and it was a success. I like gingerbread in small doses and this loaf had the perfect mix of warm spices and flavor. I may have overfilled the pan a bit, but besides that, the loaf was delicious. I found the recipe on Pinterest, that’s my go-to for coming up with ideas for recipes. Here’s the recipe if you want to try it for yourself.
My first gingerbread loaf
Popcorn Bar– I talked about my popcorn bar in my post on Wednesday but wanted to share more about it today. A popcorn bar is such a fun and festive way to elevate your movie night or holiday part. Here’s how to do it, pop your favorite popcorn and then put out your favorite seasonings or add your own flavors. For our popcorn bar, we popped a big batch of popcorn and then divided it up. We did some chocolate sea salt (melt chocolate and drizzle over and add salt and let it harden), we also did a movie theater flavoring, we did a regular batch (some salt and then butter) and then my personal favorite, kettle corn (this was the hardest to make, I found a recipe on Pinterest that includes using sugar and oil, it wasn’t hard to make but it requires constant attention). You can choose to add your favorites seasonings and flavors or candies like mints, marshmallows or chocolate chips to add some fun to your next movie night or holiday get together.
Best Christmas Ever– I kept getting ads for Best Christmas Ever on Netflix and decided to give it a go and I am so glad I did. It’s all about a woman who through unexpected circumstances spends Christmas with a fellow friend from college who she is envious of due to her picture-perfect life. However, as the two women spend more time together, not everything is a perfect as it seems. This was a light-hearted movie that’s great for families, but there were a few mature scenes. Overall, it gets 5 stars from me.
Winter Stroll– I’m rounding this Friday Favorites up with Winter Stroll by Elin Hilderbrand. It’s the second book out of a five-book series. It follows the story of a large, interconnected family through Christmas year after year. When I picked up this book from the library, I didn’t realize it was the second book out of five, it took me a moment to get caught up with the characters, but once I did, I really enjoyed it and got immersed in it. It takes place over one weekend in Nantucket for the traditional island Stroll. There’s lots of Nantucket references and so much Christmas and holiday descriptions. This was a great book to get in the Christmas spirit, just make sure you start with the first book, haha!
That’s a look into the final week before Christmas for me. A lot of holiday cheer and final preps too. My gifts are mailed and everything is wrapped, now it’s time to relax and celebrate the holidays. I hope you and yours have a very Merry Christmas.
Happy Friday! I can’t believe we are halfway through December, this month has been flying by and I am trying to soak up as much Christmas cheer as I can. I’ve been checking things off my Christmas bucket list slowly, but surely. I have been watching Christmas movies, enjoying hot cocoa, and I’ve gone skating a handful of times already this season. I am here for all things holiday cheer.
Hot cocoa and a holiday movie!
I’m sticking with the Christmas theme for this week’s Friday Favorites as I link up with Erika and Andrea or a fun roundup of Friday Favorites!
Giant Eagle Holiday Mix-I am a sucker for a festive holiday mix. I saw this holiday trail mix at the entrance of Giant Eagle when I was picking up some groceries and I had to try it. It’s the perfect mix of sweet and salty and it’s festive too. I’ve enjoyed it while wrapping gifts, watching Christmas movies and just relaxing. This would be a great addition to a charcuterie board or for a night of appetizers. Yum!
A new favorite snack
Christmas Movie Countdown– Speaking of Christmas cheer, I have been trying to watch a Christmas movie or program a night or when I can. I have been mixing in the classics with some new releases too. Shawn Johnson East and her husband, Andrew work with a company called “Family Made” and they put out a Christmas movie countdown to Christmas. They are all family movies, but I have been watching them too and crossing them off my list of holiday movies. It’s been so fun to tap into the nostalgia of childhood memories too.
Brownie Recipe– I’ve been slowly baking my Christmas cookies for the season and trying new recipes along the way. I baked my first batch of homemade brownies and although they were not as good as the Betty Crocker box recipe, they were still tasty. I got the recipe from Mix and Match Mama, and they were super easy to make. I may tweak the recipe a bit and may try some other flavors like peppermint, but I was proud of my first homemade batch! Stay tuned for more holiday recipes in the coming weeks.
A new recipe for me!
Crown Returns– The final six episodes of the Crown dropped yesterday. I have slowly started to make my way through them, but I am savoring each episode since I know the end is near. If you haven’t started watching yet, here’s the trailer and more information from TVLine. I really am looking forward to seeing how everything wraps up even though we know what happens in real life. I will also be following along with Elizabeth Holmes’ podcast as well to hear her insights on the final episodes.
A Likely Story– I am in Christmas book heaven right now with all the cheesy and warm Christmas novels, but before I began, I read A Likely Story by Leigh McMullan Abramson. It follows the story of a young woman who is aspiring to follow in her father’s footsteps and be a writer, however she has some challenges getting there. When her mother passes away, she finds an old manuscript, but who wrote it and what will our protagonist do with it? This story follows the family through the years and through a web of secrets that slowly unravels through the book. This book kept me hooked so much so, I woke up early to read the last 100 pages. Definitely a great read for a cozy day in the winter.
A great book for the fall
That’s a look into life lately and some of my favorite things, lots of yuletide cheer this holiday season. I hope you do something fun and festive this weekend as we countdown to Christmas.
Happy Friday and happy first week of December! The Christmas season is here and I am here for it. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this time of year! My holiday calendar is slowly filling up and it begins this weekend with a Christmas concert, I can’t wait!
All is calm, all is bright.
As we begin the weekend, here’s some things that I have been loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea or a fun roundup of Friday Favorites!
Credentialed Podcast– I am slowly jumping on the podcast bandwagon. Certain podcasts, I will listen to on the day they come out, while others, I will listen to when I have the time. I recently started listening to the Credentialed podcast by Justine Ward and Jillian Mele, they are two former reporters who decided to go back to school to get their MBA’s. There’s only a few episodes out and most of them have been about their background and decision to leave the news business. While I love my job, it’s been interesting to hear their stories and decisions to pursue other careers. Definitely worth the listen if you are interested in news, sports, or making a career change.
Fall/Winter Dress– I picked up this Calvin Klein dress from Marshall’s and it’s the perfect dress for fall and winter. I love the color (it’s a mix between a dark orange and light red), the style could work in the fall and winter with or without a blazer depending on the weather and it fits true to size. You can easily wear this to a cocktail party, to church or even dress it up with pumps and some bold jewelry for a holiday party.
Plus, it pairs great with a bright red jacket.
You can’t go wrong with red jacket!
Virgin River Returns– After the fall premiere, Virgin River released some holiday episodes/ specials. I haven’t had a chance to watch the episodes yet, but I plan on starting them this weekend. I like how they planned for some episodes mid hiatus. Not only does the series continue with some updates but I can’t resist a good holiday themed episode. I’m looking forward to cozying up by the fire and catching up. If you have watched or are planning to watch, what are your thoughts so far?
Pinterest Christmas Ideas– Pinterest has been one of my favorite apps lately for all things holiday fun. I have been scouring it for Christmas recipes, holiday decoration ideas and just holiday scenes. I have found recipes to bake, meals to try, and hot cocoa drinks to taste. I always find such creative ideas on Pinterest for the holidays and it really gets my creative juices flowing when it comes to trying new things. You can follow my board here.
Tell me: what’s something fun you have tried from Pinterest?
Side Dish Meme– Ending Friday Favorites with this meme I saw on Facebook. If you have lots of holiday parties or get-togethers coming up, this is your reminder to give yourself some grace. I love to spend time in the kitchen cooking and baking, but it’s not for everyone. If cooking and baking causes you stress, alleviate some of that by heading to the store and picking up something pre-made to bring to your holiday part. The holidays are meant to be a time to spend time with family and friends and soak up traditions, try not to stress about the little things. December can be hectic and busy, give yourself permission for grace this holiday season.
That’s a look into life lately, lots of fun and festive things, plus a laugh or too! I hope you have a wonderful and festive first weekend of December!
I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family and loved ones. I hope the day was filled with loved ones, good food, and lasting memories. I enjoyed spending the day with extended family and continuing some traditions too. I also ran my first Turkey Trot which was so fun!
Turkey trotting!
Yesterday was all about Thanksgiving and today is all about getting ready for Christmas by decorating our home.
A delicious, Thanksgiving spread!
This weekend we will be enjoying a second Thanksgiving dinner with my immediate family which I am looking forward to.
Baking season has begun!
Today’s Friday Favorites post is a mix of holiday fun, some shows to binge watch and a good movie, there’s certainly something for everyone as I link up with Erika and Andrea .
Book Club: The Next Chapter– My mom and I had a girl’s movie night a few weeks ago and watched Book Club: The Next Chapter. We saw the first movie when it came out a few years ago and we thoroughly enjoyed the sequel. It follows the four friends as they embark on a long overdue trip to Italy, however, no trip is complete without a few hiccups. There’s some fantastic one-liners, beautiful scenery and above all, great message about friendship. We watched it on Amazon Prime and I would definitely recommend it for your next movie night.
The Crown Returns-The first part of the final season of The Crown came out last week and I started watching it right away. Without giving too much away, it begins right where the last season left off. I think Peter Morgan has done a phenomenal job with the series and this past season. I have been following along with Elizabeth Holmes’ Crown commentary. She provides so much insight and information about The Royal Family and The Crown. You can find her here if you want to follow along more.
The Crown is BACK
Halloween Candy Cookies– I am always on the hunt to try new recipes and I found one from another blog and had to try it. If you still have some Halloween candy lying around or if you want to go buy some candy, this is such an easy and tasty recipe. It’s basically a chocolate chip cookie dough recipe with any of your favorite candies. I added Milky Ways, Twix, M&M’s, kisses, and chocolate chips. I opted not to add any peanut based candies due to allergies, but these cookies were a hit! Here’s the recipe if you want to try them for yourself.
Apple TV Christmas Special– From Halloween to Christmas, I am getting into the holiday spirit with Apple TV’s Christmas Special. If you are a fan of Ted Lasso, you will love this special. There’s appearances from the cast of Ted Lasso, there’s singing, dancing and Christmas cheer! Here’s the preview if you haven’t seen it yet. There’s Christmas specials are always so creative and fun. I’m looking forward to the lighting of the Rockerfeller Christmas Tree next week. Now, that Thanksgiving is over, I’m in full on Christmas mode.
Festive Christmas Shirt– Speaking of the holidays, I got a new graphic t-shirt to wear leading up to Christmas. I always have luck with festive t-shirts from Old Navy. I picked up this shirt along with a few other articles of clothing a few weeks ago. I love adding some holiday cheer to my wardrobe even if it is only for a few weeks out of the year. These festive shirts bring me so much joy. There’s so many different patterns and styles, there’s something for everyone. Also, as a side note, Old Navy’s pajama collection is great this year, there’s something for every member of your family-including pets!
Had to get my pup in for a photo too!
That’s a look into life recently. Some movies, baking, binge-worthy shows and getting into the holiday spirit!
This week flew by. November has been filled with work projects and events, seeing friends, preparing for the holidays and lots of deep cleaning and organizing. It’s been busy but I have been loving and embracing this slower season before the chaos of the holidays begins (which I love too).
Here’s a few things that I have been loving as I link up with Erika and Andrea or a fun roundup of Friday Favorites!
The Bodyguard-This is an older show, but new to me. Have you watched or heard of The Bodyguard. It came out in 2018 and is a limited series on Netflix. It’s all about a bodyguard for a government official in Great Britian, however, she starts receiving threats once he is assigned to her detail. She is targeted by bombings, shootings and car accidents, but the question remains, why? There’s only six episodes so you can easily binge through it in a week or over the course of the week. I personally finished it in a week but could have finished it sooner if I had more time. There were some major cliffhangers through the series and lots of plot twists. Themes of government corruption, espionage, PTSD, and love were all found in the series. Definitely worth the watch!
New Black Leggings– I have been on the hunt for some solid black leggings to wear around the house or when running errands. I found an inexpensive pair at Marshall’s, and I have been loving them. They are fleece-lined, but also thin so if you do decide to wear them in warmer weather, you won’t be sweating in them. They are soft and almost conform to your legs, so it doesn’t feel like you are wearing leggings. They one downside is that they aren’t high waisted, but I wasn’t necessarily looking for a high waited legging, but besides that, I love them!
Purple Sherpa-I have been on the hunt for a sherpa since the beginning of the fall, but never found what I was looking for when it comes to putting something on a chilly day. I popped into Old Navy last week and found lots of good deals (more coming in the next few weeks) but I finally found the sherpa I was envisioning, and it was a huge win for me! Here’s some of my favorite details, first, I love how warm and cozy it is, perfect to pair with leggings, jeans, or even sweatpants. It was a great price and style, and lastly, I fell in love with the color. I don’t have too much lavender, so I’m looking forward to bringing a new color in my wardrobe.
New Mascara– I am always trying out different brands when it comes to makeup. I have my favorite products that I use all the time (hello Sephora foundation and concealer), but for other products like mascara, I like to change it up and try new things. I saw this Maybelline mascara advertised on the TODAY show and wanted to try it. It has a thinner and smaller brush which I like since it lengthens your lashes and separates them more. I like the coverage it provides and how it doesn’t clump easily. I only need a coat or two and then I’m good to go. It’s fairly affordable and I can get it from most drugstores and big box stores.
S’more Popcorn– Rounding up this edition of Friday Favorites is some S’more’s popcorn. We picked up a bag of this flavorful popcorn for a fundraiser and I was excited and intrigued to try it. In my opinion, there’s not a strong S’mores flavor found throughout the bag. There is seasoning on every piece of popcorn, but it’s not exactly marshmallow, graham cracker and chocolate. I would categorize this popcorn more as a sweet and salty mix. There’s a lot of flavors and it’s great to munch on during a movie night or for a post lunch snack, but I wouldn’t choose it if you just want the S’mores flavor. Regardless, it was still tasty and a great snack.
That’s a look into some of my favorite things from this week. Some snacks, some clothes and some beauty products!
Tell me: what are you looking forward for the final weekend before Thanksgiving? Let me know in the comments below!
Happy Friday! I hope you had a great week as we countdown to Thanksgiving and the holidays. This week was a bit busier with some work events and projects, but we made it to the weekend! The weather has been cooler, so I have been spending more time indoors hence a lot of my favorites this week!
A perfect fall day!
Today is a mix bag of Friday Favorites as I link up with Erika and Andrea .
Here’s been some things I have been loving this week.
M&M Mixed Bag– I know Halloween is over, but I am still enjoying candy. I love M&M’s and all the different flavors and types. When I saw this mixed bag at the store I had to try it. Regular M&M’s, Peanut M&M’s and Peanut Butter M&M’s in one bag? Sign me up. I love how you can get a different flavor every time. I used some of them in some protein balls I made recently, and they really added to the flavoring. These would be a perfect pairing with popcorn or in a trail mix if you like that extra crunch and sweet and salty taste.
A sweet hit!
All the Light We Cannot See– The miniseries, All The Light We Cannot See based on the book by Anthony Doer came out last week and I watched it over the course over the weekend and really enjoyed it. I read the book last year and although it was a heavier topic, I found myself hooked from the beginning. I was curious to see how the miniseries would be compared to the book. There were definitely some differences between the two. I enjoyed the book on its own and the miniseries on its own, but with any adaption of a book to the screen there were times when I was hoping for one thing and got something different. This article does a great job at comparing the two. However, I enjoyed the miniseries and glad I watched it.
A great mini series!
Pumpkin Black Bean Soup– I can’t remember where I saw this recipe for Pumpkin Black Bean soup, and I couldn’t wait to try it. We made it around Halloween. This was a delicious recipe that had a great mix of spice and savory. I know I will be making it again, especially in the fall. Plus, it’s very healthy too. I love how thick and creamy it was too! It was the perfect harvest soup!
Santa Clause Series Returns– I’m not in the Christmas mode yet, but I am excited to get into the spirit with season two of the Santa Clause Series on Disney Plus. I really enjoy the classic, original movies with Tim Allen and was excited to see how the series would go. I thought season one was good and a good way to get into the holiday season. I was excited to hear that the show got renewed for season two. I’m looking forward to seeing what this season brings. Plus, this will be a great way to get into the holiday spirit ahead of the season.
The Murdaugh Murders Season 2– I know I am late to the party on this one, but I finally got around to watching season two of the Murdaugh Murders season two. I watched season one when it came out and was hooked and when season two came out, I knew I had to watch. It may have taken me a little while to watch it, but once I did, I finished it in two nights. I had followed the trial this past year and was interested to see what things I could learn from the documentary series. I found the behind the scenes look so interesting. If you love a true crime that’s still happening, you will want to watch this.
That’s a look into what I’m loving this week. A lot of shows and miniseries and somethings I’m planning on watching!
Tell me: how have you been enjoying the month of November? What do you have in store for the next few weeks?
Hello all and happy Halloween weekend! I know Halloween falls on next Tuesday but I feel like this weekend will be a weekend full of celebrating. I know I plan on making some fun Halloween treats, popping some popcorn and enjoying a Halloween movie or two!
Fall out of my kitchen window is BEAUTIFUL!
As the week wraps up, I have a fun roundup of Friday Favorites for you as I link up with with Erika and Andrea .
Love in the Air– If you want a break from Halloween or fall movies and are searching for a light rom-com, I have just the pick for you! Love in the Air on Netflix is all about a woman who takes over her mother’s flight company in Australia. However, it’s on the brink of being closed and being bought by a larger company. After a rocky start when the potential new owner comes to visit, sparks begin to fly between the two. You can figure out the ending from here, but my favorite part was seeing all the beautiful sights in Australia, the entire continent looked gorgeous! If you are looking for a movie to escape for 90 minutes, this is it.
Such a cute movie!
Just Eat– Jessie James Decker’s new cook book, Just Eat, dropped last week and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. I love browsing through cookbooks and choosing recipes that look good and attempting to make them on my own. There’s so many sweet and savory recipes that I can’t wait to test out these for myself and my family. Just paging through the book has my mouth watering. I have really enjoyed getting more comfortable in the kitchen and trying new recipes. I grew up helping my mom in the kitchen with cooking and baking and as an adult I have enjoyed the process of attempting family-favorite recipes and trying new ones too.
Latest cook book!
Fall Graphic T-Shirt– I briefly mentioned this shirt in my post on Wednesday, but I loved it so much I had to make it its own favorite! I browsed so many stores for a cute, fall graphic t-shirt and thanks to YOUR recommendations I found exactly what I was looking for on Amazon and I scored a great deal on it on Prime Days! I got this shirt. I love the fabric, how it fits and how it’s just enough fall cheer without going overboard, plus it was very affordable, what more could you ask for in a shirt? I already have a few graphic t-shirts for Christmas, but I may have to check out Amazon again to see if there’s any new styles.
Burt’s Bees Almond and Milk Hand Cream– I always have hand lotion or cream on me, whether it’s at my desk, in my car or in my purse. My hands get dry in the winter and even in the other months of the year, I like to keep my hands moisturized. I have been using Burt’s Bees Almond and Milk hand cream every day and have been really enjoying this lotion. Just be warned, it is a thick and heavy cream which is great if you have really dry skin. Because it is so heavy, you only need a little bit for your hands. I always feel better after applying some lotion at the start and end of the day and this has been a good product to try and use.
My new favorite and cream!
Kerry Washington “Thicker Than Water” article on Shondaland- I talked about Kerry Washington’s memoir, “Thicker than Water” coming out a few weeks ago and her interview with Robin Roberts. I haven’t had a chance to read “Thicker than Water” yet, but it’s on my to be read list. Recently, Washington did an interview with Shondaland about how Shonda Rhimes encouraged her to write a book in the first place. I’ve really been enjoying seeing Washington on her press tour and all the different guest moderators at her events. This article gives more insight into why Washington decided to write the book in the first place and some of the things she reveals throughout it. After all this prep, I’m looking forward to reading Washington’s book soon.
That’s a look into some of the things I have been loving this week. Some fall stuff, some shows and books and beauty products! As we gear up for Halloween-weekend, how are you celebrating? Scary movies? Costume parties? Lots of candy? I hope you have a fun and festive weekend!
We have less than a week to go until Halloween, how is that possible? I feel like the month flew by! I always enjoy all the holidays and this time of year. I know the next few weeks will be busy, so I’m soaking up all the slow days while I can. This month was all about fall fun, seeing friends and spending time with family. The past few weeks were filled with chilly mornings and cozy nights.
Here’s a look into what’s Currently going on in my world.
What I’m Up To: I’ve been crossing all the things off my fall bucket list. I’ve gone to a pumpkin patch and did some fall window shopping and browsing.
Pumpkin patches
Fall window shopping
I went to an apple orchard, picked lots of apples and made lots of tasty recipes including an apple pie and apple oatmeal cookies.
Before
During
Fresh Apple Pie
And a fresh slice
And fresh cookies
I got to see the leaves change through the month by going on lots of fall walks, at home and around the region.
Nothing prettier than leaves on the ground!
New places to hike!
Beautiful fall days!
I also got the chance to see two of my brothers as they came home for breaks over the past month.
What I’m Wearing: After being on the hunt for a fall graphic t-shirt, I got one from Amazon and love it. It fits true to size, the design is too cute and I got it on sale on Amazon Prime Days-wins all across the boards!
Hello Fall!
I also have been transitioning to darker colors as the seasons have changed. I’ve worn this Calvin Klein dress a few times and love the material and style. It’s a runner up for a Thanksgiving dress this year!
Also as much as it pains me, I have started to break out the jackets and sweaters, I tried to hold off for as long as a I could, but Mother Nature forced me to wear all the layers.
What I’m Reading: October was a good reading month for me. I made my way through lots of books that were on my “To Be Read” list. Here’s a breakdown of what I read:
Hello Beautiful-Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitanois a modern day take on Little Women. It follows four sisters and their lives from children to adults and how they grow close and apart, evolve and change. The book is told from four different perspectives and spans across decades. This book was so moving and really leaves you reflecting on the power of family and relationships. It was definitely worth all the hype.
Before I Do– Before I Do by Sophie Cousens. This was a book that drew me in based on the cover. Sometimes, you judge a book by its cover and it’s worth it. The story follows a bride on the days leading up to her wedding day. She’s with the perfect guy and the wedding is expected to be a spectacle. All is right in the world until someone from her past shows up as a plus one. This causes our bride to spiral when everything starts to go wrong and bad omens start appearing. Will the wedding go off without a hitch or is it a love story gone wrong? you will have to read to find out.
Counting the Cost by Jill Duggar Dillard focuses on Jill’s life, how she’s grown and evolved and her perspective about her family and a lot of the events that transpired in recent years. I really love that I could hear her telling her story through the audiobook. I feel that she really pulls back the curtain on a lot of big moments in her life which I appreciated. She was real and vulnerable throughout the whole book. I learned so much more about her and her family situation. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and finished it in less than a week.
The Layover-The Layover by Lacie Waldon is all about a flight attendant who plans on taking her last trip, but not all goes according to plan. An unexpected layover causes her to re-evaluate her life when she has to work with a co-worker that she doesn’t particularly enjoy. It’s a fun and light read that will have you craving a vacation.
What I’m Watching: I have been making my way through fall tv shows and some binge-watching too. To be honest, life has been so busy I haven’t had as much time to watch tv since other hobbies have been taking up my time. However, I have been enjoying a few shows recently.
I am all caught up on the latest season of Lupin. This was a fast watch for me. There were only seven episodes this season and several cliffhangers spread throughout the season, so I was able to finish it in a week. This season involved heists, even more disguises and learning about Lupin’s past and his family. This is definitely worth the watch if you are on the hunt for a new show.
A great show to binge watch!
I’ve also been watching Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test and The Masked Singer on FOX. I give the recruits major props for some of the challenges they have to complete on World’s Toughest Test because I know I couldn’t handle some of them. Plus, it’s fun to see who steps up and rises to the top and who quits.
The Masked Singer has also been a feel-good show to enjoy. I love to guess who’s under the mask and who can sing and who is doing it just for fun!
It was way overdue, but I finally finished Virgin River this month. The finale left me with me and so many others with cliffhangers. I’m glad we have the holiday episode to tide us over. If you watched the show, what did you think of this season?
What Inspires Me: Besides my Pinterest fall boards, I have been inspired by lots of new recipes for fall and winter. It has been a goal to try a new recipe a week and while most have been sweet over savory, it’s been so fun to try new recipes.
Here’s been some of my favorites:
I’ve made Apple Muffins
S’mores Cookies
Apple Oatmeal Cookies
Peanut Butter and Chocolate No Bakes
Protien Balls
Pumpkin Roll
I love every opportunity I get to be in the kitchen and try new recipes.
What I Accomplished: This past month I was able to see so many friends which is always good fort the soul. Whether it was on facetime or in person, it’s always good to catch up with your people. I try to talk/ do something with friends once a month and I always feel better after I get some friend time in.
A pumpkin patch and fall fest with friends is always a good idea!
Even as the weather got cooler, I tried to spend as much time as possible since I know the days of warm weather is fleeting. I always feel better after I get fresh air outside, even if it’s just for a quick walk to get the mail or to get some exercise with my dogs, there’s nothing better than time spent outside in the changing seasons.
A beautiful fall morning!
I also had some fun picking leaves to bring indoors for some seasonal decor. We used to collect leaves all the time as kids and do art projects with them, so it’s been fun to continue the tradition as an adult.
Fun fall decor!
Goals From Last Month: My goals from last month were to enjoy all things fall and I certainly did that. I still want to enjoy some Halloween fun and bake some festive treats, so that’s what’s on tap for me this weekend. Plus, even though we don’t get any trick or treaters, I can’t help myself and not buy some Halloween candy to enjoy too. You can never be too old for Halloween candy. This weekend also calls for some Halloween movies too, I’m thinking the classics like Hocus Pocus or Halloweentown.
Beautiful day for a train ride
A trip to the zoo is even fun in the fall.
Goals for this Month: As far as goals for next month, I want to continue to enjoy the fall like weather for however long it lasts. Thanksgiving will be here soon, and I love all the sides and food, plus seeing family. Everyone in my family will be home for a few days, which will be such a treat. The last time we were all together was back in August!
On a more practical note, the holidays will be here soon, so I have to start making up my lists of who to buy for. I like to start shopping around Thanksgiving, but I like to have a game plan going into the shopping season.
That’s a look into life over the past month. All things fall, all things family and friends and of course, festive fun too! As October winds down, how was your month? Cozy? Busy? Packed full? I hope it was everything you hoped for and I hope November brings new adventures and opportunities. Have a spooky rest of your week!
Happy Friday! I hope you had a great week! I’m in full on fall mode over here and am trying to pack in as many fall activities as possible.
Fall in a small town!
Last weekend, I made the most of the fall weather and conditions and took a fall drive to see the leaves changing and did a fall train ride too. It was the perfect way to spend a Sunday and make the most of a fall day. We are halfway through October and if you have a fall bucket list, how is yours coming along? I am slowly but surely checking things off.
Beautiful day for a train ride
Nothing prettier than leaves on the ground!
Today I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea for this week’s edition of Friday Favorites.
Here’s a few things I’m loving this week!
Lupin- One of my favorite shows to binge watch is back! Lupin is set in France and is French but is dubbed in English and has subtitles. Season three follows Assane Diop, a thief as he robs from the the wealthiest people. He is sneaky and savvy, always has a plan and a disguise. This season is all about reconnecting with lost family. My favorite thing about the episodes is when they show him pulling off the heist. Definitely a binge-worthy show to try if you are looking for something new on Netflix.
A great show to binge watch!
Love at First Sight– This was such a cute movie that popped up on my Netflix feed. My mom and I watched it one night and LOVED it! Love at First Sight is a cute rom com all about fate and being at the right place at the right time. When a young girl misses her flight in the U.K., she immediately books another, thanks to that flight she meets a fellow traveler and they hit it off. Turns out, the two are on the same flight and agree to swap numbers, however, due to a mix-up they never exchange numbers. Will the two reconnect and find each other in London or was it just a chance encounter on a flight? You will have to watch to find out!
The cutest rom-com!
Hello Beautiful– Remember that stack of books I got from the library a few weeks ago? I’m still making my way through it. I have been going back and forth between lighthearted books and some heavier ones. I have read about Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano on numerous blogs through the summer and couldn’t wait to read it for myself. It was definitely a heavier read and it took me longer to make it through compared to a chick flick, due to the depth, but it was so worth it. Without giving too much away, it’s a modern day take on Little Women. It follows four sisters and their lives from children to adults and how they grow close and apart, evolve and change. The book is told from four different perspectives and spans across decades. This book was so moving and really leaves you reflecting on the power of family and relationships. It was definitely worth all the hype.
Such a powerful story!
Counting the Cost-My free, three month trial of Audible is almost up, and I’ll have a whole review coming soon, but until then, I am currently listening to Counting the Cost by Jill Duggar Dillard and wow, I can’t stop listening. As I mentioned before, when I listening to Jinger’s book, I followed the Duggar family growing up and like many others was fascinated by them. I continued to follow them as their family went through some ups and downs and was eager to read the books by Jinger and Jill. While Jinger’s book focuses more on her faith journey, Jill’s focuses more on her life, how she’s grown and evolved and her perspective about her family and a lot of the events that transpired in recent years. I really love that I’m listening to the audiobook version and can hear her telling her story. I feel that she really pulls back the curtain on a lot of big moments in her life which I appreciated. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and finished it in less than a week, whenever I was driving or running, I have it on. If you do plan on reading it, I recommend the audiobook version.
My current favorite thing to listen to.
The Crown Trailer-The new trailer for season 6 of The Crown dropped this week. You can watch it here. I can’t wait for it, even though it’s the final season and I don’t want it to end! It will be broken up until two installments starting with Diana’s death and ending with Will and Kate in University. Even though the teaser was short, it got me excited for what this new season will bring! November can’t come soon enough!
That’s a look into some of my favorite things from this week! Some books, a movie, new scents and all the fall fun! Tell me, how have you ben making the most of the fall season? What’s been your favorite fall activity? Let me know in the comments below!
Are you in fall mode yet? Are you savoring the pumpkin spice season or soaking up the final days of sunshine? Last week, we had temperatures near the 90’s, so I’m still soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the outdoors for as long as I can.
Final ice creams of the summer!
My summer was a busy one, so I made it a point to schedule a lot of my yearly appointments for September once the summer slowed down a bit and to be honest, I’m glad I did. It’s been nice to take care of appointments and checkups when children are back in school, and the calendar is a bit more open, and routines are back in place. Needless to say, my days off have been filled with ALL the appointments, but I did manage to sneak in some fun too!
It’s never a bad day for a walk!
As we gear up for the weekend, I’m sharing a few things I’m loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea for another edition of Friday Favorites.
Virgin River Back– The new season of Virgin River came out last week, but I didn’t have a chance to watch it until this past week. I have been loving this season so far. For those who watch, it picks up right where last season ends. I really like how each season flows right into the other. A few storylines get wrapped up in the premiere, but new characters and problems arise in the premiere too. I’m anxious to continue the first half of the season and I’m already looking forward to part two when it comes out in November.
Sally Hepworth’s The Soulmate– I have only read a few of Hepworth’s books but have devoured them all. Her latest book, The Soulmate came out in the spring, and I have been waiting to check it out at the library. Once I got my hands on it, I finished it in five days, some nights, even staying up late to read one more chapter. It follows the story of a family who lives in a quiet seaside town. When a woman dies after falling from a popular cliff, questions arise about her death. Was she pushed? Did she fall? Did she take her own life? Secrets are uncovered between two families and connections are made that you won’t see coming. There’s a lot of mystery to this book and it’s a bit of a thriller, but not too much so that you won’t be able to sleep at night. After reading this book, I want to read more of Sally’s books!
Cover Girl The Exhibitionist Mascara-I wear a lot of makeup for work and I’m always open to trying new products, especially when it comes to mascara. I have my staples that I use day in and day out, sometimes like to experiment with new styles. I have been a fan of Cover Girl and their products and one of my friends told me about their Exhibitionist Mascara. I have been using it for a few weeks and have really come to enjoy it. I typically use their lash blast mascara, so it took some getting used to using a thinner brush, but I have found that it makes my lashes look longer. It has great coverage and it’s long-lasting. I’m not sure if I will use this one forever, but it has been good to change it up over the past few weeks.
Black Mary Jane Shoes– I’m not in fall mode yet, but I have made a few recent purchases that is getting me there. My mom spotted these black Mary Jane ballet flats at Marshall’s and they were calling my name. I love how they are a sturdier shoe, there’s a strap on them and you can wear them with so many different outfits. I can see myself wearing them with dress pants, a skirt, even jeans in the fall. I love how they are versatile enough to be dressed up or down with them. I love to browse T.J. Maxx and Marshall’s just to see what things they have in stock.
Simplified Launch– This was one of my favorite weeks as it was Simplified Launch Day this past Wednesday! I am a weekly-yearly planner gal, so I got to pick out my goodies for 2024 and order them on Wednesday. Simplified also dropped some new products that I browsed. Each launch they always bring out so many fun and creative products, I have to reign myself in from buying them all. This was my planner pick for this year. I love the message behind it, the pattern and all the detailing. I can’t wait for my products to come in.
This was a busy week, I finished a big project at work, had some appointments, and work functions thrown in too, so I was more than ready for the weekend! I hope you have something fun planned for the weekend or you are enjoying a nice relaxing weekend in. Either way, I hope it’s a great one!
I’ll see you here back next Wednesday! Happy Weekend!
