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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #121

Hello everyone! Happy Friday! It is the Friday before Thanksgiving. The holiday being so late this year is really throwing me off, so I have already begun to do some of my holiday prep, since I know December will fly by.

Signs of Christmas have already been popping up!

I hope you have something fun planned for the weekend, whether it be festive or not. The past few weeks have been busy between work, family commitments and some trips too, so I am looking forward to a bit of a breather before the holidays. 

You know winter is getting close when you see frost in the mornings.

Today’s post is very holiday themed and I have a feeling the next several Friday Favorites will follow suit, here’s a look at what I’ve been loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea.

Holiday Sweatshirt– I always love my festive graphic tee shirts to wear around the holidays. One of my local grocery stores had a bunch of seasonal items out for display, including sweatshirts. I thought they looked cute, but didn’t buy any. For the next several days, I kept thinking about the apparel and decided to go back and buy one and I couldn’t be happier with my decision. I love the colors and the fact I can wear it through the winter too, and not just on Christmas. 

Start of Holiday Baking– Since Christmas is weeks away, I have begun my holiday baking. As a way to make sure I don’t get too overwhelmed with the thought of baking dozens of cookies the week before Christmas, I started a new system last year that I will continue to use this year. I love to bake and typically bake one type of cookie or dessert a week. Now, through Christmas when I do my weekly baking, they will mostly be a family favorite cookie, and I will share half and save the other half. This way, people are still enjoying a homemade item every week, but I have cookies for the holidays. I am slowly making my way through my cookie list. A few weeks ago, I made my Halloween Candy cookies (it’s a sugar cookie with leftover pieces of candy) and they were a hit. I can’t wait to continue more baking in the next few weeks.

A beautiful first batch!

Bridget Jones New Trailer– I am a huge fan of rom coms and Bridget Jones Diary is one of my all time favorite movies. A new series was announced through Peacock following the three movies and the trailer just came out. You can watch it here. I was a bit sad to see the plotline and concept for it, but I will be watching. It’s a great example of moving on in life after loss.  It’s so fun to see a lot of the characters return and interesting to see how they have aged through the years. Will you be watching?!

Outlander Returns– Sticking with tv, one of my favorite tv shows returned for a new season. Outlander is back! I binged watched this show several years ago and have been watching it weekly ever since. The show is in its final season, so I can’t wait to see how it all wraps up. I may or may not have started it yet, depending on when you are reading this, but I can’t wait to get back to binging it.

Here– Have you seen the new movie “Here” yet? It stars Tom Hanks and Robin Wright. It’s all about a home and all the different people who live there through the years. The coolest part of the movie was the fact it was shot from one camera angle. It’s truly a cinematic masterpiece! I loved the concept, the storylines, and the casting. The message was truly beautiful too! It’s a must see for me!

That’s a look into what I’ve been loving this week. I can’t believe we are less than a week away from Thanksgiving! Time is going by too fast! Have a wonderful weekend!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #120

Hello everyone! 

Happy Friday! I hope you had a great week. I am off for a little weekend getaway which is much needed after a hectic few weeks. I’m looking forward to some exploring, relaxing, and a change up from the regular routine. 

A beautiful start to the day.

As I continue my weekend away, I wanted to pop on here and share some things that have caught my attention and I have been loving this week.

Let’s get started as I link up with Erika and Andrea.

New Jacket– I mentioned that I am back to enjoying all the fall vibes and that includes fashion too. I got this heavier jacket/blazer from Old Navy and have been loving it. You can dress it up with a dress, skirt, or dress pants, or keep it casual with jeans and flats. I have worn it both ways and have been pleased with the end result. It’s definitely a thicker jacket which is perfect for this time of year. A fall favorite for sure!

Fall Trail Mix– If you have been a reader for a while, then you know I love all things sweet and salty. I made this fall trail mix for Halloween and have been enjoying it all this week. It’s so simple to make and I’m sure you have all or most of the ingredients at home or you can supplement it with your favorite snacks. I combined pretzels, peanuts, rice chex, candy corn, m&m’s, craisins, marshmallows and chocolate chips all together for a trail mix. You don’t have to incorporate all these snacks, you can just do a savory mix or a sweet mix, but I LOVE all the flavors. Perfect for an evening treat while you watch a movie.

Homemade Bread– I know making your own bread was big during the pandemic, but it seems to be making a resurgence. I am thinking about learning to make my own, but that might get pushed to the new year. One of my friends has started to bake her own sourdough bread and I was able to snag a loaf and it was delicious. Look how perfect it came out. We enjoyed it fresh with homemade soup and it was the perfect pairing! This gives me the push to learn how to make it on my own even more. 

Face Mask– I love pampering myself with sheet facemasks and tried this one recently. It was cooling and my face felt rejuvenated and fresh once I was done using it. I don’t pamper myself with face masks or beauty products too often, so when I do, it’s always a treat. I will definitely be buying this one again to use.

New Book Haul– I typically go to my local library once or twice a week to drop off or pick up books and recently, several books that have been on hold came in and I couldn’t wait to pick them up. Now, it’s just a matter of figuring out what book to start with…I have some mysteries, new releases and recommendations. Have you read any of them? If so, what are your thoughts? These will keep me occupied until I start reading holiday books.

That’s a look into life lately and what I’m loving. I’m off to continue my weekend break. I’ll see you back here on Wednesday! 

Have a great weekend!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #119

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!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #118

Hello all! Happy Friday and Happy November 1!

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!

Happy Friday!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #69

Hello All! Happy Friday and happy Black Friday!

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!

Tell me: are you in full on Christmas mode yet?

Let me know in the comments below!

Happy Black Friday!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #68

Hello All! 

Happy Friday!

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 Weekend!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #67

Hey guys!

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? 

Have a great weekend!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #66

Hello all!

Happy Friday! We made it through Halloween week! This has been a busy week for me, so I was ready for the weekend. I finished a big project on Monday, celebrated Halloween on Tuesday and had some doctor’s appointments spread throughout the week too. These next few weeks will be busy between some big work events and projects, Thanksgiving and the start of Christmas shopping, so I’m trying to take the slow and steady days where I can. 

We had some days in the 70s and I had to take advantage by enjoying the outdoors.

Anyways, let’s not get ahead of ourselves and focus on the here and now and some fun favorites for this fall week as I link up with Erika and Andrea or a fun roundup of Friday Favorites!

New Fall Candle- I typically get my candles from Marshall’s, T. J. Maxx or even Michael’s. However, thanks to a sale and being a rewards member, I got a candle for a great price from Bath and Body Works and I am obsessed. This three-wick candle was perfect for October and is even better for November. The pumpkin-apple scent is like fall in a cup. It’s not too strong and the scent lasts even after you blow out the candle. I have been burning it in the morning and when I am unwinding or relaxing and it has been such a fall treat. I don’t always use holiday scented candles, but I know this one will last me all through the next month, just in time for a new scent for Christmas!

My new favorite candle.

New Lotion and Spray Scent– This candle wasn’t the only new scent I was smelling this week. It was time for a change for my body lotion and spray from Bath and Body Works. I’m enjoying the last of the Gingham series with Gingham Fresh. So far, I like that Gingham Fresh is subtle and not too strong which is helpful if you just want a little refresher.  You may remember I have enjoyed Gingham Gorgeous and Gingham Vibrant so far this year. I will have to use this one for a bit before I decide which is my favorite. Stay tuned! Next month, I will be breaking out the Winter Candy Apple for the holidays! I can’t wait!

New scent for the next few months.

Quaker Oats- From new scents to foods! I can’t believe this is a favorite for me, but never say never. I never liked oats or oatmeal growing up, but I have been trying a lot of new foods over the past few months and that includes quaker oats. I’m not a fan of oatmeal, but I have been enjoying it in cookies and protein balls. I used quaker oats to make chocolate and peanut butter no bakes and then apple oatmeal cookies which were both so tasty and healthy too. I also took a try at making protein balls off a recipe I found on Pinterest and have been loving them too, again the perfect mix of healthy with some sweet and salty. I’ll be on the lookout for more recipes to use oats, if you have a favorite recipe, please feel free to share with me!

New favorite treats!
And cookies

Pumpkin Pop Tarts– We are still in full on pumpkin season over here and I have been trying all kinds of pumpkin flavored foods. I was never a big fan of pumpkin, only in moderation, but it has been growing on me this season. I tried pumpkin pop tarts this season and really enjoyed them. The pumpkin flavoring wasn’t overwhelming, it was subtle but had that pumpkin spice feel and taste to it. I only tried them in room temperature and not heated up, so the flavoring could change, but if you are a pumpkin fan, consider picking them up the next time you are out and about.

Fall in your mouth!

The Crown Trailer– Any Crown fans out there? The new trailer for season 6 dropped last week and I can’t wait for part one. You can watch the trailer here. I am interested to see how they depict the months leading up to Diana’s death and the aftermath of it. I think the series has done a great job of staying true to the story. As much as I can’t wait for the final season, I also don’t want the series to be over. It has been such a good show to watch over the years and I’ll miss it when it’s over.

You never know what your favorite things will be, some weeks it’s fashion, other weeks, it’s food and scents. I hope you are recovered from Halloween and are still enjoying some candy as we make our way into a new month!

Have a great weekend!