Happy Wednesday. I hope you are having a great week so far, as we make our way through the middle of January. Winter is here and it won’t be going away for a while, at least for me. All of our Christmas decorations have been taken down and we have transitioned to winter decor, which includes cleaner surfaces, more empty spaces, and simpler decor.
Now that the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season is behind us, as sad as I was to have seen it go, it has been nice to have less stuff around the house, more freedom in my schedule and start on a clean slate for the new year. It’s also gave me time to plot out my goals for the winter months, which includes my winter bucket list.
Here’s some fun things I want to accomplish over the next few months:
Complete Simplicity Challenge
Hockey game
Ice skating
Sled riding
Reading by the fire
Find a new show to binge watch
Play more board games and puzzles
Try new recipes in the kitchen
Work on my new hobbies for the new year
Winter walks followed by warm drinks
Skiing (either downhill or cross country)
Movie and junk food day
Celebrate Valentine’s Day
This is just a start of some of the things I want to accomplish over the next few months in addition to work, spending time with family, seeing friends, and daily happenings.
After a busy end of the year, I like to give myself more grace and space in the new year for rest, house and work projects and downtime. As much as I LOVE the holiday season, it is nice to have an open schedule in the new year.
That’s a look at my Winter Bucket List, as we start the new year and season, what are some things you hope to accomplish in the winter months? Let me know in the comments below!
Have a great rest of your week and I will see you back here for another edition of Friday Favorites!
Hi everyone! I can’t believe we are at the end of January! This month went by so fast, it was definitely nice to have a slower month compared to a busy December at the end of the year. This past month has been a good mix of fresh starts, staying cozy and getting outdoors too. As the month wraps up, here’s a look at some things I have been up to.
What I’ve Been Up To: I’ve spent this past month decluttering and organizing things. After a full December, both mentally and physically, I was looking forward to some New Year cleaning. I have been participating in the Simplified Simplicity Challenge this month and I have been so proud of doing little things every day to live a simplified life. I’ll be sharing a recap of my simplicity challenge next month.
Cleaning out different areas of your life, like your purse is just one example of the daily challenges.
I also have been trying to get outside for fresh air even in the colder months, whether it’s for a walk or run, even a few minutes outside makes all the difference. I also have been trying some new recipes and enjoying some new books too. January has been slow but productive.
January has been filled with lots of snow too!
Another new recipe I tried this month, Shrimp Avocado Medicine Soup by Jessie James Decker.
What I’m Wearing: I have been wearing all the layers especially when I am outdoors. I have so many scarves that I have been making a point to wear them when I’m out and about. Not only do they keep you warm, but they are also a great fashion statement too.
All the layers for chilly weather.
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.
I Didn’t Do that Thing Today- “I Didn’t Do that Thing Today” has more of a psychological feel as opposed to a narrative feel. The author talks about all the research and interviews she has conducted when it comes to productivity. As someone who thrives on being a productive person and getting everything done, I learned a lot about not having to be busy all the time and giving ourselves breathing room and not letting a lack of accomplishment affect our days.
Spare-I have been making my way through Spare, Prince Harry’s book. The book begins after the death of Princess Diana and follows Harry’s life to the present day. So far, I have found Prince Harry to be very real and vulnerable, but also giving historical context and perspective to different things in his life. I’m looking forward to finishing the book soon.
What I’m Watching: I have been watching and enjoying The Mindy Project. It’s so fun and easy to have on in the background as I get things done. I also have been watching some fun movies. I watched Knives Out: Glass Onion, About Fate and Something From Tiffany’s. All can be found on streaming services, they were all a mix of romantic comedies, mystery and dramas. I’ve been adding more things on my list of things to watch.
About Fate was such a cute movie on Amazon Prime.
What Inspires Me: I’ve been inspired by a clean slate for the new year. From decluttering to starting new year’s resolutions and getting back into new routines. I love the new year and a fresh start.
Hello decluttering for a fresh start!
I’ve also been enjoying some baking too.
What I Accomplished: In addition to fresh starts, I have also been getting back into some of my favorite routines and hobbies. I got a few new cookbooks for Christmas and have really enjoyed trying out some new recipes including soups and hearty meals. I also have been so good about keeping up with friend dates, whether they are in-person or via facetime, it’s so good to get some quality friend time in.
New cookbooks means new recipes.
Winter weekends means pancakes!
Goals from Last Month: I have started on some of my New Year’s Resolutions which also gets me in the right mindset for the new year. Sometimes, the hardest part of starting a new habit is taking that first step. One of my goals of this year is to live a healthier lifestyle and I have tried to do that by making smarter food choices and moving more, we are only one month in, but we are off to a good start. I also have been checking things off my winter bucket list too!
Goals for this Month: February is all about love and Valentine’s Day and showing those in your life that you care! I’m looking forward to a Valentine’s Day date, some girlfriend time for Galentine’s Day and enjoying some chocolate and all things heart shaped. Plus, I’m excited to continue to enjoy winter by taking winter walks but also cozying up inside.
I also went to a hockey game this month and I’m hoping to go to a few more before the season is over.
That’s a look into life recently. Some reading, some binge-watching, trying new foods, staying active and getting back into new routines.
I’ve also been enjoying some puppy cuddles too.
Tell me: How has your New Year’s Resolutions been going?
Happy Friday friends! I hope you all had a wonderful week. This was a busy, but good week, so I was very happy when the weekend arrived.
As the colder temperatures settle in, I have been spending more time indoors. I still have been trying to get outdoors for fresh air and exercise, but it can get tricky. This week’s Friday Favorites is a mix of indoor and outdoor fun. Here’s a few things I’m loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea.
Winter Walks– I took advantage of the mild weather last week and got in a two mile walk on a day off. Thankfully, the wind wasn’t too horrible and I bundled up, but it was so good to get in a nice long walk, have good conversations and get an extra workout in. I’m hoping to make it a habit on days with mild winter weather.
Just Feed Me– I really enjoyed taking up cooking and trying new recipes last year, but have been slipping due to busy schedules. I got Just Feed Me by Jessie James Decker for Christmas and have been loving looking for new recipes to try. I made Jessie’s Chicken Noodle Soup last week and it was so good. I made a big batch with plenty of leftovers for lunches. I’m looking forward to trying more recipes this winter and in the spring and summer too.
Warm soup for a cold day.
Knives Out: Glass Onion-After seeing lots of previews for Knives Out Glass Onion, I couldn’t wait to watch it. I enjoyed the first movie and really enjoyed the second. I liked the ensemble cast, the surprise cameos and most of all, the mystery of “Who Done It”. There was lots of twists and turns and right when you thought you figured it all out, there was another curveball. 10/10 recommend watching it for your next movie night on Netflix.
The People We Hate at the Wedding– Another movie, but a different genre I enjoyed watching was “The People We Hate at the Wedding”, you can find this on Amazon Prime and it’s the perfect rom-com. This movie follows two siblings and their mother who travel to England for their half-sister’s wedding. There’s a few bumps to get to the big day, but it’s filled with lots of family drama, laughs, love, and the movie wraps with a happy ending.
Apple Devices Charging Station-I got a new charging station for Christmas and it’s been one of my new favorite things. First, I love that you can charge your phone, watch and airpods (if you have them) all in one spot. My cords would constantly be getting tangled and it’s much more convenient to have everything charging in the area. I also love the white color (it matches my room and is very sleek). Lastly, I appreciate how it doubles as a stand for my phone too. This has been a practical and fun Christmas gift.
That’s just a look into a few things I’m loving this week. I Hope you have a wonderful, winter weekend. See you on Wednesday!
Happy Wednesday! I hope your week’s are going well as we settle into January. As we make our way through winter months and spend more times indoors, I’m always on the look for different activities that are fun and inexpensive.
This makes the cold, winter months a little more bearable. If you are looking for some fun, winter date ideas, look no further since I have you covered.
Here’s my Winter Bucket List for 2023
-Go Skiing
-Bookstore Date and Coffee Shop Date
-Go Ice Skating
-Read by the Fire
-Winter Walks
-Go to a Museum
-Go to the Movies
-Try a New Recipe
-Board Game Day
-Go Sledding
-Go to a Hockey Game
-Declutter my Spaces
-Enjoy Hot Cocoa
-Try a New Outdoor Activity
-Tackle a Project
-Bake Something New
-Entertain Friends
These are just some suggestions of things to do on those gray, gloomy days. I am always looking for things to do for fun that don’t break the bank and that don’t take up a ton of time. If you are in need of some winter fun, I hope these ideas help. What’s on your winter bucket list?
Although we are getting closer and closer to spring it still feels very much like winter with cold temperatures and snow and rain and sleet. But fingers crossed we see more sunshine and temperatures above 50 in our near future.
At least the snow is pretty.
One of my resolutions for 2022 was to have monthly “Me Dates”. My friend Sydney gave me the idea of carving out special time for yourself every month to do something fun or pamper yourself, outside of our daily routines. You don’t have to spend a ton of money to enjoy some time for yourself, but there’s nothing wrong with a little splurge every once in a while. No matter if you are college student, working professional or stressed out mom or dad, we all could you use some extra time for ourselves outside of work and household responsibilities.
The year is still early so I haven’t had too many “Me Dates” yet, but my goal is to have them once a month. In February, I had a spa night at home with a facial and watching my favorite show and doing my nails. It was only 45 minutes but so worth it and something different in my daily routine.
If you want to try this for yourself, here’s a few ideas of “Me Dates”, some are inexpensive, others are a special treat.
A Book Date
Grab a book, whether it’s one you’ve had on your shelf for months, one from the library or browse your favorite local book shop for a new read. Then head to a coffee shop and enjoy your read with a warm drink. It doesn’t have to be a pricey date, but it’s a good way to get out of the house and change up your scenery and get lost in a different world.
A Pampering Day
This one can be completely free or something you spend some extra money on. You can have a quiet night in with a bath, face mask, and doing your nails for a stay-at-home self-care night. This is a nice way to relax and unwind at home without spending money. If you are looking to splurge or have a big event coming up, getting your nails done at a nail salon would be a fun way to pamper yourself and while getting ready for something fun.
Movie date
This is a very easy me-date that gets you out of the house and allows you to escape the stressors of the world and dive into a new one, even if it’s only for a few hours. Plus, if you are nervous about being out and about by yourself, it’s a lot less nerve racking when you head to a movie and it doesn’t matter if you are with a group of ten or by yourself.
Spending time on a hobby
During the pandemic, a lot of people picked up on new hobbies and activities while being quarantined, once things got back to normal, our lives got busy, and we may have let them fall to the wayside. By giving yourself permission to enjoy that hobby, even if its for 30 minutes every week or month, it lets you get in touch with your creative side.
Getting Outside for a Walk
Even with the cold weather, getting some exercise and fresh air are huge game changers. Whether it’s for a walk while you listen to some music or a podcast or you head out for a long run, getting out allows you to clear your mind and gets your endorphins flowing too.
Table for One
If you really want to be bold and step out of your comfort zone, head out to get a meal by yourself. You can head to your go-to restaurant or try a new place in town. Ask for a table for one and bring a book to read or just enjoy some quite time savoring a tasty meal.
These are just a few ideas of ways to put yourself first and enjoy a date with yourself. It can be intimidating to go out and have solo dates, but what’s important is that you are pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and some taking advantage of some extra time for yourself. While it’s always fun to plan things with family or do things with friends, there’s nothing like taking some time for yourself. It may sound cliché, but you truly can’t pour from an empty cup. We all need to take time for ourselves so we do our best for our families and in our jobs. What are some ways you like to put yourself first?
Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! I hope you had a wonderful Valentine’s or Galentine’s Day! Now that we have made it through the holiday’s of the month, my mind is on the next season…hello Spring! Just kidding…well kind of.
I love that I can live In a place with all four seasons, but sometimes, the cold and snow can seem never ending, especially when it’s May and you still have a chance of snow on Mother’s Day. As much as I love the winter months and winter activities, I have found myself in a bit of a winter slump.
Here’s just a little look at all the snow
At the start of the year, I found myself really tired with winter and it just got started. We kept getting hit with snow and cold weather, Covid-19 cases were high around my area and it seemed like we would never see warmer weather.
If you felt like this at all then you know what I’m talking about. I’m used to the cold and snow and gray clouds, but sometimes, the lack of sunshine really gets to you.
We got hit with two big snow storms in a month. Here’s a look at the snow.
I decided that wishing it was spring wouldn’t be productive so I did my best to change my mindset and find little things that brought joy and warmth to my days and make them a little less gray.
Here’s what worked for me and if you are feeling this way, then maybe they will work for you.
I found the simple joys in the days and really leaned into them, like savoring my cup of tea in the morning with my candle lit. Instead of rushing through my morning routine of making a cup of tea, reading and doing a word search, I did my best to savor it and enjoy it and take pleasure in those simple joys.
Starting my days slower and savoring them definitely helped.
I also enjoyed cozy days off enjoying my favorite hobbies. Here’s what I’m currently reading.
I also found that moving and exercise helped my mood. I go to the gym during weekday mornings, but I carved more time to get some exercise, whether it’s a 15 minute yoga session at the end of the day or even a walk to get the mail, moving my body and getting fresh air made a big difference.
Enjoying the outdoors helped too…I enjoyed skating.
And cross country skiing…just make sure you are all bundled up!
I also decided to brighten my wardrobe and have some fun with it. Even though it is winter, I have been wearing brighter colors and fun jewelry to brighten up my outfits. Even if it’s swapping in a pair of hoops for a pair of studs, it’s little things like that that can just make you smile.
I also gave myself things to look forward to, whether it was a dinner date with a friend, making plans to see a new movie, or a mini day trip. Making plans for the future gives you something to look forward to and it shows you the importance of looking for the positives.
Making a winter bucket list gives you ideas for fun things to do while making the most of the weather! Here’s mine!
While the cold and winter may seem to last forever, we know that it will end but the snow mounds do make it hard to look past.
By always looking for the positives or simple moments of joy certainly makes a big difference. Also, by reminding ourselves to take it one day at time helps too.
What things do you do to make it through the winter slump?
Happy Wednesday! I hope you all had a great start to your week. The month is flying by. As much as I love the holidays, there’s some refreshing about the start of a new year and month. I’ve been taking these first few weeks to work on my goals and resolutions for the new year and get back into my rhythms after the holidays.
The next few months are always slower and calmer as we hunker down until spring. While it may seem that winter may never end, I always like to come up with some fun ideas of activities to do to make the most of the winter days. Some are outdoor activities, others are things you can do staying inside and warm.
These are good ideas for dates, things to do with friends or even something fun to do as a family.
Here’s my Winter Bucket List for 2022. I always like to write them down and hang them on my bulletin board where I can always see them.
Ice Skating
Skiing
Winter Walk
Reading with Hot Cocoa
Make a New Soup
Sled Riding
Do something tropical
Movie Day
Do a puzzle
What are some of your favorite things to do in the winter?
I’m always open to new things to do especially when it’s cold out and it seems like there’s nothing to do except stay inside.
A few months back I did some Amazon clothes shopping, it was in the middle of the pandemic and I needed to refresh my wardrobe, I have heard great things about Amazon clothes so I decided to give it a try for work dresses. I bought five and here are the results.
Orange Dress with Sleeves (this isn’t the exact one but it’s the closest I could find, same brandy but different style). Overall, I was happy with the dress, it wasn’t the material I had in mind, it’s a tighter style and fabric. I really liked the softer orange, I think it was a unique color and it looks great on air. I added a black necklace, earrings and shoes just to add another contrasting color. Like the neck line and the fact it was a longer dress. I wore it both anchoring and reporting so it can be versatile in what you are doing. It does need hand washed or dry cleaned, just as and FYI, but overall it was happy with the purchase and it’s great for spring and summer.
Orange dress from the summer
Teal Dress (this is the dress but long sleeved) I love, love, love this dress. Not only is it easy to move in and comfortable, especially on long days but it also looks super fashionable. The color will catch your eye since it’s bright but not too bright. It also shows up great for camera which is a bonus for me! I also really like the tie on the neckline. I have paired it with nude heels, white heels, and black heels. Since the dress is a solid color, it works great for any pair of shoes! This has been a favorite in my summer wardrobe!
Teal dress from the summer
Blue and White Dress (this is my dress) I love, love, love this dress. My favorite part is the neckline, I love the collar and the blue and white colors. It is a perfect dress for spring going into summer or summer going into fall. The cotton material makes it comfortable and easy to move around in, especially for days when I am on the go. It washes easily which is a big plus and it fits true to size. Definitely a great purchase!
Blue and white short sleeve dress from the summer
Black and White Dress (this is my dress) I loved my blue and white dress so much I wanted to get in black and white for fall and winter. I love the collar and the fact it’s long sleeved, perfect for fall and winter. I also like that this dress is made from cotton material which makes it easy to wash and clean, plus it’s comfortable for the long days. It worked perfect for fall and I can’t wait to wear it in the winter, plus it adds a little extra compared to just being a simple black dress.
Black and white dress for the fall/winter
Burgunday Dress (this is my dress) I love the color for fall and winter. It is the same tight/latex-ish material as the orange dress. It is not as comfortable as the black and white dress or the blue and white dress. But I do like the color, and the neckline with the bow at the top and the pockets too!! Although, it’s not my favorite dress, I am happy with the color and to have any extra dress.
Burgundy dress again for the fall and winter
Overall, I was very happy with my purchases from Amazon, given that I bought them in quarantine, I was happy with them all, but I do like going to see and pick out clothes instead of online. I just had a lot of luck at Marshall’s and T.J. Maxx so I can’t wait to try those out.
That’s just a peak into my closet and my latest buys! Where have you been having luck with fall fashion?!
Hi all! Happy Thursday! This past month has gone by so fast since I’ve been home. I’ve done a lot of running around, working, and some relaxing. Today, I’m on my way back to school for the new semester. I know this upcoming semester will be busy but I’m keeping and open mind and staying positive despite the unknown. Today’s outfit of the day is all about being comfortable and cozy in the cold winter months, plus I got a few pieces of clothes for Christmas and I couldn’t help but not share them. This outfit is perfect for running around and doing errands, doing homework, or heading to an early morning class.
Cozy for the winter months
Sherpas are the hit and a huge fashion trend this winter season. I got this gray/brown Sherpa from Marley Lilly for Christmas. Although, most Sherpas on the market today are in three quarter zip style, but I love this alternative style from Marley Lilly. I love the high neck and long sleeves with the Sherpa. It is not only warm but also very fashionable.
Keeps you warm both in and outside
I decided to pair my Sherpa with a pair of straight jeans from Old Navy. I love these jeans. They can be worn with boots, heels, and flats. For today’s outfit, I decided to pair them with Sperry boots and boot socks. I love wearing a warm pair of boot socks with my Sperry boots. My socks match my Sherpa. I hope this outfit gives you inspiration with your next outfit. Stay warm these next few weeks in January. See you next week as we talk about fitness goals for the new year!
