Hi friends! Happy Friday! I hope you are in the midst of soaking up the days of summer. Although summer as an adult isn’t nearly as fun as summer as a child, I am still enjoying the sunshine, warm weather and family time! This past week, I got the chance to catch up with two friends, spent lots of time outdoors and went on some fun day trips!
My pup enjoying the sunshine!
This week’s Friday Favorites has all things summer as we make our way through June! Let’s get started as I link up with Erika and Andrea!
Summer Garden– I teased this last week in my post and talked about it in my summer bucket list, but one of my goals for this summer was to plant a garden. I’ve been looking for a creative outlet where I could have an end result and I found it by planting a garden. Since I am just a beginner, I decided to keep it simple and do some seeds and some plants. I decided to buy cucumbers, tomatoes, and pepper plants and then carrot and pea seeds. I wanted to have a variety of options in case they didn’t all work out. Fingers crossed, I get to see the finished product in a few months, but I did enjoy picking the seeds, tending the garden and making signs too. I’ll keep you updated on my progress this summer!
My garden!
and signs!
Sure as the Sunrise– I mentioned this daily devotional by Emily Ley back in January and I have been reading it every morning and just finished it. It’s 100 daily devotionals and reflections with space for thoughts too. I took a brief break during Lent to do another devotional and just finished Ley’s book in time for summer. I really loved how the book was set-up with daily scripture, reflection and questions. Then at the end of every week, there were a few questions you could answer. You don’t have to start on January 1, so if you are looking for a new devotional or morning reading companion, I highly recommend this one.
My favorite way to start the day
Birkenstocks– This may be one of my favorite birthday gifts. After seeing the trends for years, I finally decided to hop on the Birkenstock bandwagon and I’m so glad I did! I was on the hunt for a pair of sandals I could throw on if I had to run out to get the mail, hit the store, wear by the pool or just go for a walk and these were just what I was looking for. I love the rubber material (perfect for the pool) and white color. They are so comfortable too. I know these will be a favorite all summer long!
New favorite summer shoe!
Chicken Kabobs– Another birthday related favorite! I decided on grilled Chicken Kabobs and veggies for my birthday dinner with pasta and fruit salad and it was delicious. I love grilled chicken with lots of seasoning and flavor and these were the perfect way to welcome 25! I am looking forward to trying new recipes with chicken kabobs and grilling this summer. I can’t wait to try new summer recipes. If you have any you love, drop them in the comments below!
Best birthday dinner!
Queen Charlotte– I finished a lot of series in May, so as June rolled around I was looking for a new show to start and I found that with Queen Charlotte! I love Bridgerton, so I was anxious to watch the prequel to the series. It definitely has the same feel of Bridgerton with the characters, clothes, one-liners and scenery, but has a heavier feel (if that makes sense?) I really have enjoyed learning about the Queen’s backstory and it has been such a fun way to escape our world and head back in time. The episodes are a bit longer, but there are fewer in the season. This would be a great summer binge!
Such a fun show to start!
That’s just a peak into life lately. Some fun new gifts, new shows, tasty food and hobbies! How have you been enjoying your summer so far? Let me know in the comments below!
Hi friends! Happy Last Day of May! This has been a packed month and I swear it flew by in the blink of an eye. I hope you had a fun and relaxing Memorial Day weekend and enjoyed the unofficial kickoff to summer.
A snapshot of our Memorial Day spread!
I had a busy weekend between celebrating the holiday, working and then celebrating my 25th birthday. It was packed full, but oh so fun!
Celebrating 25!
With my pup too!
Now, that I have got you all caught up on this weekend, as another month comes to a close, it’s time to recap this month with a new edition of Currently. Here’s what I’ve been reading, watching, and doing.
What I’ve Been Up To: May was a busy work month between traveling to Canada for a day trip to preview the Coronation of King Charles III, which you can read about here, Primary Night in Pennsylvania and kicking off summer events.
Day trip to Niagara on the Lake!
Primary night in PA!
On weekends, I have been savoring the warm weather by spending as much time outside by taking walks or runs and making a point to get outdoors.
First sunset of summer!
From doing work outside to taking walks after work or on days off, I even have been making it a point to catch up with friends over the phone or in person over a walk. Spring and summer means eating meals outdoors, I always try my best to spend some time outside every day.
Enjoying a Saturday morning walk and coffee!
I also got to enjoy my first sunset and grilling of the season at the beach. It was a beautiful night to sit on the beach and grill! Looking forward to many more nights this like this through the summer.
First sunset and picnic on the beach
What I’m Wearing: On cooler days, I have been enjoying wearing cuffed jeans and graphic t-shirts and sneakers. I even have gotten to break out the shorts a few times this month too which is a huge win! I can’t wait for shorts season all the time come next month.
A weekend look, cuffed jeans for the win!
I also got a few new closet staples from J.Crew and Ann Taylor which I will be sharing soon. I have been looking for bright colors to wear in the warmer months. I got this bright, yellow dress from a friend from The Limited and it’s perfect for Spring and Summer. I love the color and the style, it would be great for a summer wedding, Sunday Church service or work.
Bright and cheery for spring!
Speaking of weddings, I went to a family wedding a few weeks back and wore this dress. Although, it’s navy blue, I dressed it up with gold accents.
A classic wedding look.
What I’m Reading: The end of April and start of May was a big reading month for me. Here are some of my favorites.
I read the sequel to “It Ends With Us” by Colleen Hoover. You do have to read It Ends With Us, before you read “It Starts With Us“, but I don’t think it’s necessary to read the sequel. It was definitely lighter than the first book and it was interesting to see how some of the relationships progressed and changed, but I don’t think you have to read the sequel.
“After I Do” follows the story of a young couple who after being married for several years goes through a rough patch and agrees to take some time apart. The book follows what happens when they separate and if they decide if they are better together or apart.
“Forever Interrupted” tells the story of a newlywed couple who are on Cloud 9 in marital bliss, until the husband is tragically killed just a week after they say, “I do”. The book goes back and forth between the grieving widow trying to move on and the start of the couple’s relationship. I really enjoyed the two perspectives it was told from and how the two storylines eventually get tied together.
The final Taylor Jenkins Reid book I read was “Maybe in Another Life”. This book follows the story of Hannah who moves back to California and when out with friends, she has to decide if she wants to go home with her ex-boyfriend or her best friend. The story goes back and forth between both decisions, if she plays it safe or makes a bold decision. I really enjoyed seeing both lives and perspectives.
The last book I read was “The Dinner List” by Rebecca Serle, it’s all about a woman who shows up to her birthday dinner with five people from her life. Through the course of the dinner, the purpose of each guest is revealed, and our heroine learns the importance of letting go, moving on, and growing from this special birthday dinner.
What I’m Watching: This past month, I wrapped up a lot of series. I finished The Mindy Project which was so good. I loved the casting, storylines and one-liners and truly didn’t want it to end, however, I was satisfied with the ending.
I also finished The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, which I loved from the get-go. I thought this season did a great job at wrapping things up and giving glimpses into the future of what happens with fan-favorite characters. I am going to miss the cast, the comedy and of course, the clothes! This article gave a great recap!
If you watched the show, what did you think of the final season and ending?
I also talked about Jury Duty a few weeks ago. You can find it on Amazon Prime and it was the perfect show to watch for a comedy filled 30 minutes. I thought the show was well done with the creative story of a group of people sitting in on a court case that’s being filmed for a tv show. The catch is, they are all in on it except for one jurors. It was such a fun show to binge watch.
I also finished The Diplomat which stars Keri Russell on Netflix. It’s all about a woman who becomes the new Ambassador in the United States. It’s a mix of politics, drama, intrigue and some romance too! I give it 5 stars! I’m already looking forward to the new season.
What Inspires Me: Spring and summer mean all the salads! I have been on a kick of making chefs salads. They are so easy to assemble and great to use what you have in your fridge. I often throw in any leftover vegetables I have plus any cheese or sliced meats or even fruit. I love that you can use what you have and get a hearty meal out of it too.
Besides making chef salads, I have also enjoyed making flatbread pizzas this summer and trying different combinations.
Plus in honor of Cinco de Mayo, I made chicken tacos! Yum!
Lastly, I have been inspired by picnics. There’s nothing better than enjoying a picnic after a nice long walk. I enjoy a classic sandwich and chips and fruit for a picnic, but love to switch it up with grilling too.
Summer picnics are back!
What I Accomplished: I’ve been really enjoying time outside, time spent with family and starting summer traditions and fun! If this month is any indication at how summer will look, we are in for a good summer!
Summer appetizers are back!
Bring on the fresh salads.
Goals from Last Month: This past month has been busy as I celebrated my 25th birthday, I accomplished a lot of things on my summer bucket list and I made lots of memories through the spring and did some things for the first time too, like being to a new part of Canada.
Day trips to the zoo are back!
The best part of family weddings-cookies!
And some sweet gifts too!
Goals for this Month: My only goal for next month is to kick off summer and begin my summer bucket list! I am already working on it and can’t wait to share it with you next week!
Whew, that was a lot! May has packed full in the best way. I can’t wait to see what June has to offer! I can’t wait to welcome a new month and summer! See you back here in JUNE!
Happy Friday Friends and Happy Memorial Day Weekend!! This month flew by, I feel like we were just celebrating Mother’s Day and here we are at Memorial Day weekend!
This past month has been up and down weather-wise. Some days, we hit 70’s and others were in the 50’s. Last weekend, I had a family wedding and it was so nice to celebrate love and see family!
Zoo trips are back this season!
Besides Memorial Day Weekend, it’s also my birthday weekend. I’m looking forward to celebrating on the actual day and a bit before.
Now, that I’ve got you all caught up on all things in life, here’s what I’ve been loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea!
Lemon Bundt Cake-I have been trying to incorporate more fruits and vegetables as we get closer to summer and that includes desert too. I made a lemon bundt cake last week and it was the perfect taste for spring. It was sweet and moist and had so much flavor. You can eat it solo or with some vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit. A lemon cake and fresh strawberries would be divine for a summer night dessert. If a cake isn’t your cup of tea, you can make these into cupcakes or muffins. The possibilites are endless!
The sweetest cake for spring!
The Dinner List– I have been a big fan of Rebecca Serle’s books. I’ve enjoyed In Five Years and One Italian Summer and I was excited to read The Dinner List. The book follows a young woman as she enjoys a dinner with five important people in her life. The purpose behind the dinner is explained through the book and different relationships are explained through the story. I really enjoyed getting to know all the characters, but the end had me grasping for more. I wasn’t ready for it to end!
Such a good read!
Brain Dumps– This month has been so busy with all the activities, events and to-do’s and the only way I have been keeping it all straight (besides my Simplified planner) is by writing everything down and doing periodic brain dumps. A brain dump is when you literally put everything that needs done or what’s on your mind on a giant list and break it down about what needs done. I always write to-do’s for the day in my planner, but sometimes, for long term lists or detailed to-do’s, having it in one spot is a game changer. I love these large pads from Simplified, not only are they super cute but have a ton of space for lists.
The best notepad for brain dumps!
Selling Sunset Season 6– One of my favorite reality shows is back! Selling Sunset is my guilty pleasure and there has been so much drama and excitement this season. From new characters to familiar faces, incredible homes and all the drama…this season has been so good. I’m currently watching it as I type this post. The only downside is that once I finish it, I have to wait for a new season. If you are watching this season, what are your thoughts so far?!
Substack– Have you heard of Substack and started using it? It’s a platform to read blogs and newsletters. A lot of writers I follow have joined substack. Some you have to pay to read their newsletters, but others offer free subscriptions. A few of my favorite writers on Substack right now include Emily Ley and Elizabeth Holmes (are we surprised?) I have been loving following Holmes’ coverage of the Coronation. She’s been providing both newsletters and podcast about it. Substack has been a fun place to get lots of content in one place.
Some of my Substack reads
That’s a roundup of some of my favorite things this week. From books, to food, and shows, I hope you found a new favorite here. Tell me, as we gear up for Memorial Day weekend, what are your plans? I hope you can enjoy some fun time outside and with family! Happy Friday!
Hey friends! Happy Wednesday! I hope you are having a great week so far as we make our way through MAY! This is one of my favorite months of the year, I love the warmer weather, transitioning from spring to summer, fresh plants and flowers, the start of grilling season and my birthday is this month-so many great things happening!
It’s the second Wednesday of the month which means it’s time for a Let’s Look with Erika and Shay for Let’s Look!! Once a month, they share different parts of their lives and I’ve linked up along with them too. Here’s some of the past prompts, in April, we talked about pet peeves, in March, we talked about Amazon purchases in February it was about our medicine cabinets. This month the theme is Let’s Look at our morning routines!
I LOVE a good morning routine, so I couldn’t wait to share mine.
I have two morning routines to share. The first, an early morning routine and a second-regular morning routine.
On weekends, I work an early morning shift, so my mornings look a bit different compared to Monday through Friday, so I decided to share them both with you today!
Up first, a weekend morning.
Alarm goes off at 3:45, I spend some time checking my phone for emails, texts, social media, news feeds for a few minutes and then it’s reflection time. I read a daily reflection from Laudate, a religious app and then doing journaling and reflection.
This is my current journal, there’s a prompt for every day which I’ll answer and then I’ll journal anything that’s on my mind. Then I do some reading of this meditation, Sure as the Sunrise by Emily Ley. I have been loving it this year. This takes about 10 minutes from start to finish and then this is where the time starts ticking.
I get up before 4:00, make up bed, brush teeth and wash my face and then start makeup. If all goes according to plan, it takes about twenty minutes for my makeup.
Then it’s hair time, I typically curl my hair and while I do that I do some reading and a word search. I know it sounds crazy, but rather than watch tv or listen to music, I will read a few chapters and complete a word search while I do my hair.
Once all is said and done it’s about 4:40, I finish getting ready, grab my lunch and it’s out the door by 4:50 to get to work by 5:00.
Out the door on time.
On weekends, mornings go by fast and there’s no chance of hitting the snooze.
At work on time!
On weekdays, it’s a bit of a different story. I get a lot more done and it’s not as rushed.
Alarm goes off at 6:15, I go about my morning routine of checking my phone, having my reflection time, getting up and getting ready to leave for the gym by 6:40.
Workout done!
Then it’s workout time for about an hour. I get home around 7:50ish.
It’s time to start getting ready for the work day, that includes makeup, hair-similar to my weekend routine. I’ll see what I have going on for the day with my Simplified Planner.
A glance at my planner for this week
I’ll grab my lunch do any picking up that needs done and then it’s out the door, on this particular day, I had to run to the bank before heading to work, but made it in my 9:15 ahead of my start time.
Time for work!
My days off look fairly similar to a weekday morning, same wakeup time, reflection, gym time and then after that every day is different depending on if I have appointments, errands to run or I just come home and relax.
That’s a look at two different by similar morning routines. I always love getting a peak into other people’s routines and rhythms. Let me know in the comments below about yours!
Have a great rest of your week and I will see you back here on Friday for a new edition of Friday Favorites!
Over 400 posts, almost 50 Currently’s and counting, new link ups, like Friday Favorites and Let’s Look, outfits for all the seasons, home decor and favorite things from books, shows, and movies, I have covered a lot of ground over the past six years.
I started this blog as a way to start a hobby in college, a creative outlet that let me work on my writing, document my feelings and memories of day to day college life and stay in touch with family and friends. It’s been six years and this blog has become so much more than just a creative outlet. Here’s one of my first posts.
A lot has changed since I first blogging.
Since I began this blog, I learned a lot in the classroom, took life changing trips, graduated college, moved home, landed my dream job, got promoted, made new friends and reconnected with old friends, have an incredible boyfriend and grown as a better daughter, girlfriend and friend.
Happy Graduation Day
Heading out for a job interview
Getting ready for work.
I’ve learned to take risks, go with my gut, say yes, but also be okay with saying no, be flexible and make self care a priority.
Skating in the city!
When I reflect on this last year, the word stable keeps coming to mind. I’m stable with my career and friends, I have a good routine, I have been prioritizing my health and hobbies and I have been having fun too.
My mom and I after a candle making course.
A show in the city at night!
Some of the past highlights of this past year for me and my blog include launching my Friday Favorites as I link up with other bloggers every Friday.
Traveling to new places in the summer to visit friends, spending quality time with family and embracing my community by taking advantage of places and events in my backyard.
I read so many different genres of books and shared many of them with you on here.
Some of my books that I’ve read and still need to read.
I feel like this past year, I have really found my groove in who I am and what I want in life. College was a time of constant change and growth and then I started my job and the pandemic hit and we spent years navigating that and now it feels like the dust has settled and I’m content and SO happy.
At the beginning of this year, I said my quote was to embrace change and so far, I haven’t had to embrace too much change and I’m okay with that. I don’t know what the second half of the year will hold, but I know I will be taking you all along with me.
Whether you have been following along since my first post all those years ago or you found my blog through a link up, I’m so happy you are here and I’m so honored you took the time to spend some time reading my words.
I truly appreciate each and every one of you.
Here’s to another year of writing, learning, growth, change and blogging.
Hi everyone! Happy Friday! I know it’s only mid-April but I am so ready for summer. Over the past few weeks, I’ve gotten to enjoy sunshine, 70 degrees, and all the clear skies. I even have indulged in ice cream on a few nights too. I know it’s not here to last, but I am soaking up as much as I can. I’m currently working on this post outside and it’s such a tease for summer.
Beautiful spring weather!
It was so hard to narrow down today’s Friday Favorites because I had so many things on my mind. But I think this is a good mix of things to read, watch and enjoy this week. Here’s this week’s edition of Friday Favorites as I link up with Erika and Andrea!
The Best Years of Your Life– This book started out slow, but once it picked up, I couldn’t put it down. It’s told by the three main characters, a married couple and their college-aged daughter. Each character is going through different trials and tribulations and has their own secrets that they are dealing with. You can find themes of drama, relationships, family, honesty and integrity. It’s one of those books that will stick with you after you finish it. Another bonus is that the author is from my community-such a small world!
Simplified Spring Launch!-Emily Ley and her team at Simplified revealed their products and covers last week and they went on sale on Wednesday! All I can say is wow! What a collection! Their academic planners go on sale in the spring and their yearly planners go on sale in the fall. I’m a yearly girl, so I will buy my planner in the fall, but I already have my eyes on some new products too! If you like organization and desk and office supplies, you have to see what they have in stock. This is my pick for this year!
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Season 5– The new and final season of the Marvelous Mrs. Maisel returned last Friday! So far, a handful of episodes are available. I am really into the season and i don’t want it to end. There was a lot of shock after the first episode, you can read about it here if you want to learn more, but be warned, the article contains spoilers! I always look forward to Fridays when the new episodes drop and I can’t wait to see how everything wraps up.
James Corden and the Kardashians– If you are a fan of the Late Night Show with James Corden or the Kardashian’s, you have to check out this video. Corden fills in as their assistants for the day and the end result is too funny! This is guaranteed a laugh for you.
New Library Books– After reading some great books, I couldn’t wait to head to the library for some new reads and my recent haul didn’t disappoint. I picked up a mix of rom-com, drama, and some that have been on my read list for a while. I can’t wait to share some reviews soon!
Well there you have it, that’s a look into what I have been loving this week. I hope you found something that you can love too! I hope you have a wonderful weekend filled with sushine and spring fun!
Happy Friday Friends! It feels like Springtime here! The sun is out longer, I’m not wearing layers upon layers when I head out the door and flowers are starting to bloom. I love this time of year!
First signs of spring
As we make out way into another spring weekend, I’m sharing some of my favorite things with you from the week as I link up with Erika and Andrea!
Easter Fun!
I know we are a week past Easter, but I wanted to share an easy recipe! We always make a traditional Easter Bunny cake! We use a box mix to make to circular cakes and then here’s how you get the bunny shape!
Bake your two cakes in two circular pans.
Take one cake and cut two angles to make the ears for the bunny face.
Use the other for the bow
Ice, decorate and enjoy!
Sea Salt Crackers– I picked up these crackers when I was out and was looking for a new flavor for my lunches. I love to pair these crackers with cheese, apples or salads. I love the consistency and flavor of the pita and sea salt. I am always on the hunt for new flavors and tastes and these check all the boxes. If you are looking for a new cracker, definitely check these out.
Rose Water and Ivy Wall Flower– As the seasons change, it was time for a new wall flower scent from Bath and Body Works. For spring , I’m using Rose Water and Ivy and I’ve really been enjoying it. I love the sweet and fresh smell it gives off. I also swapped out my plug-in for a new one with sleeker look. I’m excited to use this more in the coming weeks.
Greenwich Park– My co-worker shared Greenwich Park by Katherine Faulkner with me and I loved it, I finished it in less than a week! It’s the perfect mix of drama, thriller and mystery. The story is told from different perspectives of the characters. The book follows a story of a woman who meets a fellow first-time mom in a pre-natal class, the two women become friends until the new women has a hidden agenda and some secrets and connections to the protagonist and her friends and family. The book starts out fairly slow but picks up towards the middle and end, so if you re thinking about quitting, stay with it.
Emily Ley’s Podcast on Friends– I listen to Emily Ley’s Simplified podcast every week. She covers different topics about life, organizing, cooking, motherhood, finances along with guests every week. Last week, she released a podcast about friendships and the different kinds of friends. Her message was all about how there’s different friends for different parts of your life or seasons. This podcast really resonated with me, I definitely recommend the Simplified podcast for regular listening but also for this specific episode.
That’s a look into some of my favorite things from this week. I hope you have something fun planned for you this weekend! Happy Fri-yay!!!
Hey hey! Happy Friday and happy Easter weekend. I always look forward to Easter as a time to reflect and really embrace the spring season. I hope you have something fun planned this weekend with family if you celebrate.
Today’s Friday Favorites is truly a mixed bag, from things to read, listen to and watch and use! I guarantee you, there’s something you will find that you like. Here’s some things I’m loving as I link up with Erika and Andrea.
Colette-Have you seen Colette yet? It came up as a recommendation for me on Netflix and my interest was piqued. Although, it’s a few years old, it’s definitely worth the watch. The movie follows the story of a young woman who falls in love and marries a man in the 1940’s. She ends up being his ghost writer, but it doesn’t exactly go as planned. My favorite part of the movie was that it was based on a true story. So fascinating!
The Bestie Breakdown– One of my favorite podcasts, The Bestie Breakdown is back for season 4! Erika and Shay breakdown so many fun and relatable topics, I love listening to their fun conversations about life, pop culture and family. They’ve released a few episodes so far and I have loved listening to them. I took a road trip last week and listening to this podcast made the time go by so fast. Looking forward to see what other topics they breakdown this season.
Hello Spring!-Sticking with the spring vibes, this Hello Spring lotion from Bath and Body Works has been a favorite for me. I keep it in my car and apply it daily. I love the soft scent that’s not too overpowering. This and lotion is just a subtle nod to spring that’s been a bright spot in my days!
Emily Ley on Substack– Emily Ley, founder and creator of Simplified has started writing on a new platform called Substack. I’ve used substack before to follow Elizabeth Holmes who writes and follows the Royal Family. Substack allows people to read/write and listen to longer form thoughts and musings. So far Emily has written about her sabbatical, books she’s read and things she’s learned. I can’t wait to read more from her this year.
Biggest Changes from Book to Screen for Daisy Jones– I promise this is one of the last times I will talk about Daisy Jones, but for those who read the book and watched the series, this article is great at comparing the two and spotting the differences. As I’m working on this post, I am listening to the show’s soundtrack. SO GOOD!
Well there you have it, just a look into life lately and what I’m loving! I hope you have a fantastic Easter weekend! He will soon be risen!
Hey guys! Happy Friday! We made it to the weekend and to the end of March! I can’t believe tomorrow is April, spring is flying by.
Here’s a roundup of some of my favorite products, meals, and hobbies from the past week as I link up with Erika and Andrea!
Mary Kay Mint Lotion– I always love testing new beauty products. I got this Mint Bliss Energizing Lotion as a gift and I couldn’t wait to try it. Here’s some things that I love about this lotion. First, the smell is divine and so fresh, it provides a cooling sensation to your legs and feet. I also love the consistency of it, not too thick, but not too runny. It’s also great for dry skin which happens a lot in the winter.
Metal Straws– This year I have been doing my best to use more reusable products. From my reusable baggies to tupperware, but now I’m upping my game with my cups. I try to drink a lot of water every day and use a lot of reusable cups/water bottles and mugs. Many of the cups I use don’t have straws, so these reusable metal straws are a huge win! They fit perfect with most cups/thermoses, are easy to clean and I feel better that I’m doing my part to help the planet.
Chocolate Drizzle Popcorn– Most people in my family are huge popcorn fans and we have been trying different flavors and seasonings. We are currently loving this chocolate sea salt popcorn. It’s our own recipe, simply pop popcorn, (I typically do a cup of popcorn), melt chocolate chips (about ½ a cup) and then drizzle chocolate over the popcorn on a large tray. Add a pinch of salt over the chocolate and popcorn mixture and let it harden, I typically dry for about an hour or two and then serve! So tasty and a perfect mix of sweet and salty.
Lemon Poppyseed Muffins– I know I cheated with this box recipe, but I saw this at the store and couldn’t resist by trying them. They were the perfect mix of sweet and flavorful. I love the added taste of the poppyseeds. I know they are meant to be enjoyed as a breakfast treat but I think they could work just as well as a dessert.
Love and Other Words– I am always reading and I just finished this book, Love and Other Words and loved it. It goes back and forth between the past and present with two best friends who reunite after almost a decade apart. Themes of friendship, love, and books are woven through the book. As a book lover myself, I loved all the references to books and getting lost in a story. My friend Sydney gifted me this book and I’m so glad she did. I’ll defintely be reading more Christina Lauren books.
That’s a look at some of my favorite things from this past week. Some products, some food and a good book. What more could you ask for? I hope you have a great first weekend of April!
Hello all! Happy Wednesday and Happy end of March! I wish this month felt like more like spring, but it felt more like winter. To put it in perspective, we got more snow in March than in February and we didn’t even get that much snow.
A look at March in terms of weather!
That being said, I am ready to welcome spring with open arms. The sun has been out more, the days are longer, it’s just good vibes all around. Here’s a look into life recently.
What I’ve Been Up To: This month has flown by with a mix of slow days and busy weeks. This month, I’ve ventured out for the first local zoo trip of the year. I’ve also tried some new recipes, caught up with friends for dinners or long overdue facetime calls and enjoyed some time outdoors, even in the chilly weather. I’m looking forward to fewer layers, sneakers instead of boots for walks, and not heating up my car in the mornings in April, or I’m at least hoping.
First Zoo trip of the year
Weekend drives and breakfast sandwiches
What I’m Wearing: I have been making it a point to wear brighter colors to channel my inner spring even on the colder days. I got this soft green dress from Calvin Klein from Marshall’s and it’s already been a favorite of mine this year. I love the sleeves and the color, a great combo for Spring.
Green for Spring!
I’ve also been pairing neutrals with brighter colors for work, like a pink sweater with a tan skirt. It breaks up the neutral colors and makes you get in the spring spirit.
A spring skirt and top combo
Green has been in heavy rotation this month!
What I’m Reading: I’ve been reading lots of books over the past few weeks as I spend more time indoors.
Here’s what I have been enjoying.
Carrie Soto is Back– I finished Carrie Soto is Back and enjoyed it more than I thought. It follows the story of a tennis player looking to return to the court to claim her title as champion. I learned a lot about tennis, endurance, and hard work. I really appreciated the relationship between Carrie and her father. There’s a lot about female empowerment, family ties, and some romance too. It’s a bit different than some of TJR’s other books, but I really enjoyed it.
It Ends with Us– I started another Colleen Hoover book. It Ends with Us is a serious drama which follows the story of a young woman who falls in love with a neurosurgeon, he seems like the perfect catch, but there’s more that meets the eye. This also comes as her first love comes back in her life. Will she choose her new love or first love? You will have to read to find out. In more good news, a few months ago, it was announced that it was being made into a movie with Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. I can’t wait to watch.
What I’m Watching: A lot of shows that I follow released new seasons so I’ve been catching up on some of my favorite shows. I’m caught up on the new season of YOU, which was filled with murder, mayhem, mystery and of course cliffhangers.
I’ve also watched Daisy Jones and the Six on Amazon Prime which I really loved. From the music, to the character and plot lines, I think they did a great job going from the book to the screen. I was so sad when it was over, but was so satisfied with the ending, even with some changes.
The cherry on top was having the new season of Ted Lasso come out. I really enjoyed the first two seasons and have been loving season 3 so far. I’m so glad the new season is back! You can catch that on Apple TV.
What Inspires Me: I’ve been inspired by lots of cooking and baking. I’ve been trying to bake or cook something every week, I’ve mostly been aiming for new recipes but have worked to perfect some family favorites. Here’s a look at some of my favorites from this past month.
One pan chicken, sausage, potatoes and veggies.
Blueberry muffins
Cinnamon roll bars
Rice Krispy Treats
Chocolate drizzle sea salt popcorn
Taco soup!
What I Accomplished: This month has been so productive from getting yearly check-ups done, hair cuts, tackling big work projects, and catching up with friends who were home on spring breaks from university programs. I also got some quality family time in with both of my brothers home on Spring Break. It’s been a packed full, but such a good month.
Fresh cut for Spring
Hot cocoa and early spring drives.
Goals from Last Month: This past month, I wanted to do my best at creating memories both indoors and outdoors. I celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with our community parade.
St. Patrick’s Day parade in town
I enjoyed Maple Fest in our community, by heading to local sugar houses and enjoying lots of maple treats and of course, syrup!
Learning the process
Successful maple fest
I also went to see a performance of Riverdance. I tried to make the most of the month and I think I succeeded.
Time spent cozied up with my favorite for-legged friends!
Goals for this Month: I can’t wait to enjoy all things Spring, from Easter, to fresh flowers, outdoor walks and kicking off my Spring Bucket list. I’m so excited for the new season and month and everything it brings.
Goodbye Winter..hello Spring!
That’s a look into life recently. Lots of indoor time between reading and catching up on shows. Some time outdoors with walks with pups and friends and trying new things, like recipes.
Nights have been spent by the fire
Tell me: what’s something you’ve enjoyed and savored over the past month? Let me know in the comments below!
