10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

Merry Christmas and Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Celebrating Christmas with my family

2. Homemade food

3. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey

4. Sleigh Ride by The Ronettes

5. Reading

6. Finally getting matching Christmas pajamas

7. Giant scrunchies

8. My boys' laughter

9. Buying new books

10. Snow flurries

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Finished holiday shopping 

2. Signed up for One Little Word 2021

3. Mailing in our ballots

4. Blogging

5. Memory keeping in my journal and Project Life album

6. Celebrating Gabriel's birthday 

7. Early release days at the boys' schools

8. Reading

9. Lemonade by Internet Money and Gunna feat. NAV and Don Toliver

10. Christmas songs

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Target 

2. Finally trying a new recipe (I tried this recipe from Target, but substituted a few things)

3. Hamilton

4. Journaling

5. Paying off our car loan

6. My kids

7. My cozy slipper socks from Old Navy

8. New books

9. Winter-like weather

10. Iced coffee

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

Target Finds

Happy Wednesday! It's time for another Target Finds. Over the past few weeks, I have found so many great things at Target. I blame (and thank) the holidays for that. So the majority of the things that I have found are food items (don't judge me, blame the pandemic). 

Baileys Holiday Tube Pack

I've been really into Baileys Irish Cream. When I saw these chocolates at Target, I had to try them. The container says that it's non-alcoholic, but it sure smells like there is some alcohol. These little chocolates taste just like Baileys. I plan on purchasing a couple for some stocking stuffers. These would also go great with a bottle of Baileys.

Random tip...try some Baileys with Hot Chocolate. You're welcome in advance.

Archer Farms Cheesecake Frozen Bite Collection

Oh. My. Goodness! These little cheesecake bites are so good. John and I have been devouring them. The box comes with New York Style, turtle, and raspberry swirl cheesecakes. My favorite is the turtle cheesecake. The raspberry swirl cheesecake was a pleasant surprise but not my absolute favorite. It wasn't gross or anything; I just don't really like raspberry. 

Rudolph's Trail Mix

This will always make it on my favorite Target Finds every year. This is my favorite holiday snack. There are a few other holiday trail mixes, but this is by far my favorite one. 

Barely Functional Adult by Meichi Ng

This was an impulse buy. The cover and the title of the book made me want to read it. I haven't read it yet, but I did check out Meichi Ng's Instagram, and I love her work. You can check out her work here. I will post a review of the book soon.

Overall, I loved all of the things that I purchased at Target. As usual, I saved on all of my Target Finds by using the Cartwheel app, buying items on sale, or buying things at the Dollar Spot section.

What are some of your favorite Target Finds?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

What I Read In November

It has been an incredibly long time since I wrote a book review for the blog. I've been accomplishing my monthly reading goals. I have also surpassed my reading goal for the year. Last month, I read a few books, but my favorite read for the month was False Perceptions by Michelle Heard. I loved this book so much that I decided to share a review. 

False Perceptions by Michelle Heard 

This was one of my favorite books that I've read this year. The characters were amazing, and the storylines were fantastic. It's not often that a book has me in tears, and my goodness, I cried a couple of times. 

False Perceptions is a military romance about Emilie Swanson, the daughter of a senator, and Hayden Cole, a Navy SEAL, tasked with protecting Emilie from threats after she was kidnapped and tortured. Emilie and her father do not get along, and she's been let down by several men, including her ex-husband. Ultimately, she decides to escape her life, move to a small town, and take care of herself. Hayden just returned back after a failed mission that left some of his brothers dead. He decides to protect Emilie and considers this his last mission before he retires. Hayden has some suspicions and concerns that Emilie is still in danger. Now he has to figure out who is after her and keep her safe while investigating the threats.

Both of the main characters went through so much. They were so strong and resilient. They were perfect for each other. There were a few surprises throughout the story, which was awesome. I felt a few parts should have had more details, but overall, it was a great read. 

Do yourself a favor and read this book as well as Michelle Heard's "An Enemies To Lovers" series. 

What did you read in November?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate

2. My new planner for 2021

3. This post on Instagram

4. This amazing ornament (I just bought one the other day)

5. Shipping notifications

6. Finally buying new matching Christmas pajamas

7. Reading 

8. Cry All Night by D'arcy Spiller 

9. Season 4 Episode 15 of The Bold Type

10. The moon

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

December Goals

Happy Wednesday! It's finally December! It's the last month of 2020! I'm both excited and a little bit afraid. This year has been...interesting, to say the least. Last month was fairly decent. We enjoyed celebrating Thanksgiving, and I did some Black Friday shopping online. Everyone found out that my baby sister is going to have a son. I'm so excited and still can't believe that my sister is having a baby. We are getting so old.

The holidays are going to be different this year. However, I'm not going to let that ruin my holiday spirit. It may be different this year, but maybe we can make some new traditions along the way. I'm really excited about this month, and I'm hoping to do a better job of remembering my goals for the month. Last month, I completely forgot about most of my monthly goals, so don't be surprised when you read the November goals recap.

Now that it's a new month let's check out my new goals for December and how I did with my November goals.

Recap of November Goals

• Read 5 books: I accomplished this goal. I read so many good books last month, but my favorite read for the month was False Perceptions by Michelle Heard. I plan on having a review of that up on the blog next week.

• Finish at least one book (that's been taking me forever to finish reading): I may have read a lot last month, but I did not finish one of the few books that have been taking me forever to finish reading. Mind you, it's not that the books are boring; it's that I keep reading new books, so then it takes me even longer to finish reading the books that I had already started reading. It's a terrible habit of mine.

• Publish two personal pieces for the blog: I completely forgot about this goal, so I didn't complete it. I was so disappointed when I found out that I forgot about writing those pieces.

• Finish 30 Days of Lists challenge: This was a fail. I forgot to complete this challenge. I probably should have my notebook on my desk so that I can remember to complete it.

• Drink more water: This was a massive fail. I really do need to drink more water. I've been drinking too much soda. I may have to try sparkling water or some other alternative because the amount of soda I have been drinking is ridiculous. 

• Try 1 new recipe: This was a fail. Once again, I forgot that this was one of my goals. I got so distracted last month, and as you can see, I forgot all about my monthly goals.

• Work in my journal: I accomplished this goal. I worked in my journal several times, and it was so therapeutic to do so. I hope to finish my journal this month because I would like to start the new year with a new journal.

December Goals

• Read 4 books

• Finish 2 books (that's been taking me forever to finish reading)

• Publish 1 personal piece for the blog

• Try 1 new recipe

• Work in my journal

What are your goals for December?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

Photo by Freddy Castro on Unsplash

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

 Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Sleeping in

2. Mini cheesecake bites (This one from Target is amazing!)

3. Christmas music

4. Spending time with family

5. Reading

6. Black Friday sales

7. Long, hot baths

8. Making layouts in my traveler's notebook

9. This mini album I made 

10. My sons

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

 Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Control by Zoe Wees

2. Toasted White Chocolate Mochas

3. Holiday snacks

4. Shipping notifications

5. Victoria's Secret Pink Teddy Full-Zip (I have it in black)

6. Reading

7. Drogba (Joanna) Remix by Afro B feat. Ozuna

8. Cinnabon Frosting Pint

9. Scrapbooking and Memory Keeping supplies

10. The moon and the sky

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

Target Finds

Happy Monday! It's time for another edition of Target Finds. Over the past few weeks, I've found so many cool things at Target. As usual, their holiday collections are amazing. Target currently has many early Black Friday sales, so you might want to check that out. 

Before I start to ramble, let's check out what I bought at Target over the past couple of weeks.

10" Melamine Reindeer Dinner Plate

This is such a cute plate. It's sturdy and well made. We're going to use this for our Santa cookies. 

Holiday Hot Cocoa Bombs

We love hot chocolate. I actually drink it year-round. When I saw these hot cocoa bombs, I had to get them. I haven't tried these yet, but I can't wait to use them to make hot chocolate. I think my boys are going to absolutely love it. I also found a hot cocoa bar at Target, and I'm considering buying one. 

Women's "Out of Office" Sleep T-Shirt

I am obsessed with this sleep t-shirt. It is so soft and comfortable. I think it kind of runs a bit small. The sleeves were a bit too short. I think either a Small or Medium would have fit me, but I chose a Medium because I liked the length of the sleeves on it. 

16pc Ceramic Kingfield Debosssed Dinnerware Set (Blue)

This dinnerware set was a Black Friday deal. We needed some new dinnerware, and this set is so pretty. The design is so cool, and I love the color. It's very sturdy and durable. I have a feeling this set is going to last for a long time.

Overall, I loved all of the things that I purchased at Target. As usual, I was able to save on all of my Target Finds by using the Cartwheel app, buying items on sale, or buying things at the Dollar Spot section.

What are some of your favorite Target Finds?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

 Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Levitating by Dua Lipa feat. DaBaby

2. Early Black Friday sales

3. Holiday shopping

4. New books

5. Cinnabon Stix from Cinnabon

6. Supernatural 

7. This post from Grey's Anatomy 

8. Target

9. Eating all the baked goods and pastries

10. Getting stuff done ahead of time

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

If You and I Had Coffee

If you and I had coffee... 

We'd meet at Starbucks. We'd order a seasonal drink and a couple of pastries. Then we'd go for a walk and enjoy the fall weather.

If you and I had coffee... 

I'd ask you how your weekend went. I'd tell you that I had a great weekend. On Friday, it was Red Cup Day at Starbucks, and I was able to get a free red cup. Then on Saturday, we received the best news. Joe Biden and Kamala Harris are now President-elect and Vice President-elect. I don't even have the words to describe how excited I am about this. On Sunday, we went to my little sister's gender reveal party. I was so honored to be the first one to know the gender of her baby. I'm happy to say that she is having a boy! I'm so excited and can't wait to meet him.

If you and I had coffee... 

I'd ask you what are you currently reading? What are some of your favorite TV shows, movies, etc. at this moment? Are you working on any projects? 

I've been working on my Project Life album, and I love it. It's been great using up a lot of my crafty stash. I plan to work on a mini album using some new scrapbook and craft supplies that I recently purchased. As for TV shows and movies, I have a few shows to catch up on. John and I are excited to watch the latest season of The Mandalorian. We also need to catch up on Supernatural.

If you and I had coffee... 

I'd ask if you've started to prepare for the holiday season? I love all of the holiday displays and commercials. I've been listening to Christmas music, and I've started preparing for the holidays. I've made so many lists. I'm determined to get everything done a bit earlier than usual especially because of the pandemic.

If you and I had coffee... 

I'd tell you that I enjoyed spending time with you. I'd tell you that I can't wait to catch up again. 

What would you tell me?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

Photo by Briana Tozour on Unsplash

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Red Cup Day at Starbucks

2. Paying off a huge chunk of our car note

3. Listening to new music

4. The moon

5. Memes and videos about the election

6. Holiday shopping

7. Finding out the gender of my little sister's baby (I'm honored that I'm the only one that knows so far. I can't wait for her gender reveal party)

8. Peppermint mochas

9. Reading 

10. Chocolate chip bread

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

November Goals

Happy Monday! Can you believe that it's finally November? The year is almost over, and I'm pleased about that. This year has been intense. 

October was such a great month even though almost all of our fall and Halloween traditions and plans were canceled. We celebrated my little sister's 21st birthday. I still can't believe that she's 21. We carved our pumpkin, watched a couple of movies, visited Mami on Halloween, and played video games. 

Our holiday traditions might look a little different this year due to the pandemic, but we will still celebrate. Maybe we will even come up with some new traditions. I'm really excited about this month, and I can't wait to work on my monthly goals. Last month, I completely forgot about my monthly goals, so I'm hoping that I remember to check my planner every once in a while this month.

With that being said, it's a new month, so it's time for some new goals. But first, let's see how I did with my October goals and then check out my new goals for November.

Recap of October Goals

• Read 5 books: I accomplished this goal. I'm still on a reading streak! According to my app, I've read for 39 weeks in a row. I've been reading every single day. I've said it before, and I'll say it again, one of the good things to come from this pandemic (for me) is that I've been reading a lot. I've surpassed my yearly reading goal. 

• Publish one personal piece for the blog: I actually posted a personal piece in October! I repeat, I published a personal piece in October! You can read the post here.

• Try 1 new recipe: This was a fail. Once again, I do not have an excuse as to why I didn't accomplish this goal. 

• Finish 30 Days of Lists challenge: I haven't completed this challenge. I've been working on some other projects, and somehow this challenge keeps getting pushed back. At this point, I'm considering just working on it every once in a while. However, I'm hoping to finish this challenge in November.

• Exercise 3 days a week: This was a fail. I completely forgot that I even made this goal...which is horrible. I have got to get it together.

• Drink more water: I'm not even sure whether to consider this goal a pass or fail. I did drink more water than I normally do, but not as much as I should. 

November Goals

• Read 5 books

• Finish at least one book (that's been taking me forever to finish reading)

• Publish two personal pieces for the blog

• Finish 30 Days of Lists challenge

• Drink more water

• Try 1 new recipe

• Work in my journal

What are your goals for November?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

Photo by Danielle MacInnes on Unsplash

Happy Halloween

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

 Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Sweater Weather by The Neighbourhood

2. Catching up on The Bold Type

3. Naps

4. Chicken noodle soup

5. Reading new books

6. Halloween candy

7. Cozy pajamas

8. No school for the boys

9. Making Project Life layouts

10. Finally getting a pumpkin 

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

Target Finds

Happy Wednesday! It's time for another edition of Target Finds! It's been a couple of months since I've shared a Target Finds post, so I thought it'd be fun to share one today. Trust me, I've been ordering stuff at Target, but it's primarily been essentials that I bought, which is why I haven't shared anything. I'm sure you all don't want to know about the usual essentials. Right?

Ready to see what I found recently at Target? Well, let's check it out.

Mother's Halloween Circus Animal Cookies

These taste like the regular Mother's Circus Animal Cookies, but they were in the shape of bats and cats. My boys loved them, and it was a simple way to celebrate fall and Halloween season. 

Didn't See That Coming by Rachel Hollis

This was somewhat of an impulse buy. When I first saw this book, I didn't buy it. I kept going back and forth on purchasing it. I read the back cover of the book, and it really interested me. This will be the first book by Rachel Hollis that I've read. I'm hoping that it's a good read. I'll have to do some research because I ended up finding out that there's been some controversy surrounding her. 

Dear Justyce by Nic Stone

I haven't read this book yet, but I was so excited to buy it. It's been on my TBR list since before it was actually out in bookstores. I enjoyed reading Dear Martin so I knew that I had to pick the sequel as soon as it was released. I will definitely share a review of Dear Justyce after I finish reading it.

Pepperidge Farm Milano Pumpkin Spice Cookies

I'm a big fan of the Milano cookies, so I was excited to find this limited-edition flavor. I am fairly certain that Pepperidge Farm never had a pumpkin spice cookie, so it was a nice surprise. My boys also loved these cookies. I only had two cookies before they got a hold of the bag and devoured them. I've since bought several more bags. 

Overall, I found some great things at Target. As usual, I was able to save on all of my Target Finds by using the Cartwheel app and buying items on sale.

What are some of your favorite Target Finds?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Halloween themed cupcakes from Smallcakes

2. Fall scented candles

3. Lotería by Prince Royce

4. Ice cream cones

5. Hubie Halloween

6. Memory keeping

7. The Awesome Ladies Project Harvest Fest 2020

8. Starbucks Salted Caramel Mochas

9. Catching up on books that I haven't finished reading yet

10. Naps

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

If You and I Had Coffee

If you and I had coffee...

We'd meet at a little coffee shop (and practice social distancing...of course). We'd order some seasonal beverages and pastries. After getting our drinks and food, we'd take a walk around the neighborhood.

If you and I had coffee...

I'd ask how you are doing? With everything going on in the world right now, it's important to know how our friends and family are coping. I'd ask you if you were able to go out and vote. Or are you planning on voting by mail? 

If you and I had coffee...

I'd ask you what are you currently into? What are your favorite shows or movies at this moment? What are you currently reading? Are there any songs that are stuck in your head? 

I'd tell you that I've been reading a bunch. I'm excited about Mindy Kaling's Nothing Like I Imagined (Except for Sometimes) collection on Amazon. I also can't wait to read Dear Justyce by Nic Stone and Solutions and Other Problems by Allie Brosh. There are many books that I still need to finish reading and a massive amount of books on my bookshelves that I want to read. It's starting to get hard to choose which ones to read next. 

If you and I had coffee...

I'd tell you that I've been feeling so creative. I actually worked on several pocket page layouts and even worked in my journal as well. I have no idea why I'm always so much more creative in fall, but I love it. I still have to work on some projects and a couple of blog posts, but I'm feeling so good and hopeful. I feel like my creative energy has been replenished. 

If you and I had coffee...

I'd thank you for taking the time to meet with me. It really does mean a lot to me. I'd tell you I can't wait for our next coffee date. 


What would you tell me?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...


Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. This cover of Lady Gaga's Bad Romance 

2. This post by Caylee Grey

3. This mini-album by Michelle (@our3littlepumpkins)

4. Buying my little sister's birthday present

5. Knowing that I'm going to be the first to know the sex of my niece or nephew first (I'm honored that my little sister wants me to help her with the gender reveal)

6. Coffee

7. Autumn Leaves by Eva Cassidy

8. All. The. Baked. Goods. 

9. Making pocket page layouts

10. Happy mail (Finally got my Studio Calico order)

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

10 Things That Made You Happy This Week

Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Cupcakes

2. Awesome sales at Victoria's Secret

3. Coffee

4. Reading

5. Finding Peppermint Hot Chocolate

6. Using my planner again

7. Journaling

8. To All The Boys: P.S. I Still Love You (Finally finished watching the movie)

9. This Tik Tok video (The ending is hilarious!)

10. This Bohemian Eye Sticker by Erin Woody Art

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

Fall Bucket List

Happy Wednesday! Summer is over, and I'm only about two weeks late with this post, but better late than never. We're still in that weird seasonal transition...weather-wise at least. The mornings are so much cooler, but some afternoons are still hot. It was almost 80 degrees yesterday afternoon. 

Since it's my favorite time of year, I thought I'd share my fall bucket list. This year will be different due to the pandemic, but it's not going to stop me from celebrating the season and most importantly, Halloween. It'll be different, but still fun.

• Drink apple cider

• Watch 5 new (or new-to-me) horror films

• Watch my favorite Halloween movies
• Practical Magic
• Hocus Pocus
• The Nightmare Before Christmas
• House on Haunted Hill
• Halloweentown
• The Craft
• Hotel Transylvania

• Read scary stories

• Finish reading at least 3 books that have been taking me a while to finish

• Walk on the Silver Comet Trail

• Drink apple cider

• Toast pumpkin seeds

• Bake Halloween cookies

• Bake bread

• Make grape and bbq meatballs

• Try 3 new fall recipes

• Donate to a local pantry or church

• Carve pumpkins

• Make s'mores

• Start holiday planning

• Try the limited edition Hot Chocolate flavors at Barnes and Noble's cafe

What is on your fall bucket list?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

The Truth Is...

The truth is I'm still struggling with this creative block. It's bizarre. I feel like my creativity is coming in waves. One day, I'll just want to create all day and the next...I can't think of anything. It's really frustrating because I do want to create. Whether it's writing, painting, memory keeping...it doesn't matter, I just want to make something. Then I'll sit down, and nothing comes to my mind. 

The truth is I've been worried about my health. I've been feeling really exhausted. Most might say it's just being a mom that's making me tired and the pandemic isn't helping, but now I'm starting to worry that it's more than just that. Never have I been so excited to actually go to my annual doctor's appointment. Ever since I had my oldest son, I've been more aware that I need to be in good health, especially for my kids. They need me and I want and plan to stick around for a while. I have too much stuff left to do. Here's to hoping that I get some answers soon.

The truth is I'm extremely anxious about politics. I'm actually avoiding the news again. I'm both excited and dreading November. I'm so ready to vote, but I'm still dreading what could happen. Some days, I have hope and then other days, not so much. All that to say...please vote and make your voice be heard. 

The truth is I've been struggling with grief. I've been thinking about my baby brother a lot. They say that over time it gets easier, but I'm not sure it's true. I'm not even sure how to put how I'm feeling in words. It just hurts so much.

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

 Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Free Coffee and Donut from Krispy Kreme

2. La Jeepeta Remix - Nio Garcia, Brray, Juanka, Anuel AA, and Myke Towers 

3. Sleeping in

4. Getting good news

5. Drafting blog posts

6. It's finally October

7. Huluween is back

8. Working in my journal

9. Taking black & white Instax photos

10. Hilarious conversations with Mami

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

October Goals

Happy Thursday! Can you believe that it's finally October? I am so excited! It's my favorite time of the year and one of my favorite months of the year. 

Last month was pretty good, even though I was exhausted for most of the middle of the month. We celebrated John's birthday and spent time with family. I worked on some creative projects and read a lot. The boys are doing well in school, and their report cards were great. I'm so proud of them. Remote learning is getting more manageable, and we have settled into a routine.

This month, I'm excited to read some spooky stories. I plan on watching some scary movies and TV shows. Halloween may be slightly different this year, but I'm still planning on what we will do. We'll definitely continue some of our fall and Halloween traditions, but we are still deciding what to do as far as trick-or-treating. What are some of your plans for Halloween?

Before I continue to ramble, let's recap on my goals for September and check out my goals for October. 

Recap of September Goals

• Read 5 books: I read so much. I'm happy to say that once again, I accomplished this goal. I still have a few more books that I need (and hope) to finish by the end of the year. There are just so many books that I want to read and so little time. I'm still struggling with acknowledging that it's ok to stop reading a book if I can't get into it.

• Work in my journal: I didn't work in my journal as much as I'd like, but I'm calling this a pass. I really want to work in my journal every day, but sometimes it's just not possible. I'm hoping to get in the habit of making this something that I get done every day. I may just start to wake up earlier or even set a timer, so I'm reminded to work in my journal. 

• Work on 30 Days of Lists: I worked on this mini-project, but I didn't complete it. I don't have a good excuse for why I didn't finish this challenge in September, but I plan on completing it this month.

• Publish one personal piece for the blog: This was a fail...again. However, there will be a piece that is published on the blog this month—mark my words. 

• Finish my Positivity Passport journal: I had so much fun working on this project. Yesterday, I put the final touches on my journal. 

• Try 1 new recipe: This was a fail. I'm not even sure why I put this goal down every month. I have no excuse for not trying a new recipe. 

October Goals

• Read 5 books

• Publish one personal piece for the blog

• Try 1 new recipe

• Finish 30 Days of Lists challenge

• Exercise 3 days a week

• Drink more water

What are your goals for October?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

Photo by Maddi Bazzocco on Unsplash

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. New books

2. Silence by Marshemello ft. Khalid

3. Cooler weather

4. Going for walks during the evening

5. Finding out that Mari Andrew has a new book coming out on March 9, 2021

6. Reading

7. Pa' Ti by Jennifer Lopez & Maluma

8. Organizing my creative space

9. American Assassin

10. Playing video games with John

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Our staycation

2. Getting better at navigating the boys' digital learning website

3. Reading

4. Seeing leaves on the ground 

5. Target

6. New scrapbook and art supplies finally arriving in the mail

7. My bed

8. John's sweater

9. My Mami

10. Ice cold mango lemonade 

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

Crayola Colors of the World

Happy Monday! I'm sure you may know that I'm a big fan of Crayola. Crayola has a new line called Colors of the World, and I'm so excited about it. This new line has 24 global skin tone crayons. I love that this new line lets everyone (especially children) represent themselves in their artwork.

I love that Crayola is promoting the importance of inclusion and self-expression. I remember when I was a kid, we didn't have a product like Crayola's Colors of the World. We just had to use "peach" or "brown". The 24 crayons in this line were created to reflect the 40 global skin tones. The box has color panels and the names listed so that kids can find the shade that best represents themselves. This collection not only features a 24 count box of crayons, but also a 32 count box of crayons. The 32 count box of crayons has the 24 global skin tone crayons, 4 hair, and 4 eye color crayons. The 32 count box is perfect for making a self-portrait.

The boys and I have been having a blast making self-portraits with these crayons. It's been so much fun using the Colors of the World line with Crayola's original products like their regular crayons, markers, and colored pencils. Crayola was so kind enough to send us a few products from their Crayola Project line. The Crayola Project line is perfect for school projects, arts and crafts, and homework.

Overall, I highly recommend Crayola's Colors of the World collection. I love that this collection was created to promote diversity, inclusion, and self-expression. It's a perfect addition to Crayola's other lines and collections.


Have you tried Crayola's Colors of the World crayons? 

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...


Disclosure: I did receive these products for free in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed here are my own. As always, I only recommend products and services that I have personally used.

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Bang! by AJR

2. Pumpkin Spice Lattes

3. Cheesecake

4. @omgitschelseaofficial's Instagram and Blog

5. Tether Me by Galleaux

6. Key & Peele videos

7. Halloween candy

8. Cold Little Heart by Michael Kiwanuka

9. The leaves are changing colors (A hint of fall)

10. Cooler weather in the mornings (Another hint of fall)

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

If You and I Had Coffee

If you and I had coffee...

We'd meet at a little coffee shop. We'd most likely order some Pumpkin Spice Lattes or some other fall-related beverage. We'd also order some pastries because I currently have zero self-control when it comes to baked goods. I've been devouring all sorts of pumpkin and apple-flavored treats. Pumpkin bread, pumpkin cream cheese muffins, apple cider donuts...don't judge me. Then we'd go for a walk because the weather is absolutely amazing. It's not too hot and is a sign that fall is almost here.

If you and I had coffee...

I'd ask how you are holding up. The damn virus has really affected everyone. I'd ask you what your thoughts are on digital learning. I'd ask, how are you and your kids (or nieces, nephews, grandkids, etc.) are doing?

I'd ask what are you doing to cope during this time. What is bringing you comfort? I'd tell you that I hope you're doing well and that I am always here if you want to talk.

If you and I had coffee...

I'd tell you that I am considering signing up for Medium and am thinking about pitching some of my essays and pieces. I'm really nervous, but this is something that I have been thinking about for a very long time. I think it's time.

If you and I had coffee...

I'd tell you that I've been really inspired by the Positivity Passport Challenge on Instagram. It's such a simple challenge and an easy way to journal. You can check out some of my pages here, here, and here.

If you and I had coffee...

I'd tell you that I'm so glad that we were able to meet up and catch up. I'd tell you that I can't wait until our next coffee date.

What would you tell me?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...


Photo by Fallon Michael on Unsplash

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Dinner from The Marietta Pizza Company

2. Buying new books for the boys

3. Catching up on Lucifer

4. Naps

5. New memory keeping/scrapbooking supplies

6. Oreo cheesecake

7. Serenity by Bath & Body Works

8. Justin's peanut butter cups

9. Cozy blankets

10. Listening to new music

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

September Goals

Happy Tuesday! It's a new month, and I'm so excited! Most importantly, it's almost autumn, and I can just feel my energy coming back. I really do come alive during fall.

Last month was a hectic month. My boys started digital learning, and it's been a little challenging. The website would crash...sometimes for hours. However, my sons' teachers are absolutely amazing, and I'm so grateful for them.

This month, I'm looking forward to getting used to digital learning, celebrating John's birthday, and writing a lot more. I'm also looking forward to autumn and everything that comes with it. I can't wait for cooler weather, comfy and cozy blankets, all the pumpkin spice lattes (I've already had some, but whatever), watching scary movies, and reading a lot of books.

Before I continue to ramble about my love of fall, let's recap on my goals for August and check out my new goals for September.

Recap of August Goals

• Read five books: I read a lot in August. I've been trying to finish several books that I started reading months ago while also reading some new books. I really have to stop reading new books when I've already got several books that I have to finish reading. 

• Work in my journal: This was a fail. I mainly worked in my Positivity Passport and not nearly enough in my "regular" journal. However, since my Positivity Passport is still considered a journal, I guess it can technically be a pass. Yes? No? Maybe so?

• Publish one personal piece for the blog: This was a fail. I've just been so busy with getting the boys and myself adjusted to digital learning that this goal was kind of forgotten. I'm hoping to accomplish this goal in September. I even rejoined Illuminate and I'm sure the monthly prompts and challenges will help inspire me.

• Work in my Positivity Passport: I've been having so much fun working in this little journal. I even purchased a couple more for some other projects. I plan on using one for my 30 Days of Lists journal.

• Try 1 new recipe: This was a fail. At this point, I don't even have an excuse. I just keep forgetting. Maybe I should put this goal on my meal plan whiteboard that's hanging on my fridge...that I haven't used...in a while. 

September Goals

• Read 5 books

• Work in my journal

• Work on 30 Days of Lists

• Publish one personal piece for the blog

• Finish my Positivity Passport journal

• Try 1 new recipe

What are your goals for September?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

Photo by Maddi Bazzocco on Unsplash

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. Happy Together by King Princess and Mark Ronson

2. Reading

3. My kids

4. Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter Find Out If They Are More "Bill" or "Ted"

5. This video

6. Ice cream

7. Reading hilarious tweets about Robert Pattinson in The Batman trailer

8. Catching up on TV shows

9. Buying new books

10. Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Lattes

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

Target Finds

Happy Wednesday! It's time for another edition of Target Finds! Throughout the past couple of months, I've found some really great stuff at Target. Thank goodness for Target Drive-Up (curbside pickup) because I've barely have had to step inside Target. 

Just a heads up, you may notice that most of the items are food items. Don't judge me. I blame the coronavirus.

Well, let's check out what I've found at Target during the past couple of months.

Godiva Chocolate Domes

Oh my goodness! These were so good. The only thing that I didn't really like about them is the packaging and all of the wrapping. It was way too much and seemed like a waste.

Lindt Hello Chocolate Bars

I bought a few Lindt chocolate bars and loved two out of three of the chocolate bars. I was not a fan of the Lindt Coffee Blast Stick. It really tasted like coffee. I'd prefer to drink my coffee, not eat it. My favorite out of the three is the Lindt Salted Caramel chocolate bar. The flavor was perfect and not overwhelming. My second favorite candy bar is the Lindt Milk Chocolate stick. Just like the salted caramel bar, this chocolate bar's flavor was perfect.

Starbucks Pumpkin Spice K-Cups

I was so excited to find these...only to end up being disappointed by the flavor. I didn't really taste pumpkin spice and the flavor was way too strong. I didn't expect the k-cups to taste like the pumpkin spice latte that you get from an actual Starbucks shop, but it was so odd how it didn't really taste like pumpkin spice at all.

PowerA Wired Controller Plus For Nintendo Switch - Zelda: Breath of the Wild 

My sons were so excited to get these new controllers. We are huge fans of the Legend of Zelda so John and I just had to get a few of these controllers. We all prefer the wired controllers so these were perfect for us. I personally have not used them, but my boys have used them.

What are some of your favorite Target Finds?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. My sons' teachers (They are amazing!)

2. Reading

3. Made through the first week of digital learning

4. Trey Kennedy's Moms pre-pandemic vs. post-pandemic video

5. Georgia teachers viral online learning music video

6. Hints of Fall

7. Getting stuff done early

8. The new season of Lucifer premieres today!

9. New cupcake flavors from Smallcakes (Their Kickin Kat flavor is so good!)

10. Cooler weather in the mornings (Especially this morning.)

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...

Three Things - August

Happy Thursday! It's been a long time since I filled out and shared a questionnaire. I think the last one I completed was in February. I saw that Steph from Life According to Steph made a new questionnaire and thought it'd be fun to share my responses.

Three things I like about August

1. Summer fruit

2. Back to School supplies

3. Summer storms


Three things I dislike about August

1. This heat (I'm so ready for cooler weather)

2. Bugs

3. Having to wake up earlier than usual


Three goals for the rest of August

1. Try a new recipe

2. Publish a personal piece for the blog

3. Work in my journal


Three things I thought I'd use more this year

1. My computer

2. My art supplies

3. My car


Three things I never thought I'd use as much this year

1. Face masks

2. Swig Life products

3. Curbside Pick-up


Three things I'm into right now

1. Reading

2. Chocolate chip scones

3. Seagram's Escapes


Three favorite fruits

1. Strawberries

2. Mangoes

3. Limoncillos/Quenepas


Three foods I've survived on in Corona Summer

1. Ice Cream

2. Iced Coffee

3. All. the. snacks.


Now it's your turn. Feel free to share your response or a link to your blog in the comments.

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...


Photo by Kenrick Mills on Unsplash

If You and I Had Coffee

If you and I had coffee...

We'd probably meet via Zoom or FaceTime in the morning. If we decide to catch up in the afternoon, then we'd probably go for a walk. Today is going to be so crazy because my boys start remote learning. I can't believe it's the first day of remote learning. I think I'm more nervous than my boys.

If you and I had coffee...

I'd tell you that I'm still reading a lot. I've almost read 300 books this year. I've noticed that some people started new hobbies during the pandemic. It seems that although I've been struggling creatively (these waves and bursts of creative energy is tiring), my reading has skyrocketed. I can't complain about that since I have wanted to read more. It's been so lovely being able to escape in a book.

If you and I had coffee...

I'd tell you that I am discovering a lot of new-to-me artists. I'm currently obsessed with Echos. I really love their song Saints and Guest Room.

If you and I had coffee...

I'd tell you that I have been feeling extremely exhausted. I'm not sure why and it's been very annoying. I've been taking as many naps as I can, but I do know that I need to start going to bed earlier instead of staying up late reading. Now I'm sure you're probably going to say that I'm exhausted because I'm staying up late, but I think I've been getting enough hours of sleep. So that's why I'm confused as to why I'm feeling exhausted. And...now I'm rambling.

If you and I had coffee...

I'd tell you that I've been enjoying working in my Positivity Passport Journal. It's a separate journal that I'm using only for August. I'm using the Positivity Passport Kit from Everyday Explorers and it's such a great little kit. This project has inspired me to work on some more creative projects.

If you and I had coffee...

We'd finish our drinks and pastries. I'd thank you for coming to catch up with me. I'd thank you for listening to my rant about being exhausted and my fears about remote learning. I'd wish you well and tell you that I can't wait for our next coffee date.

What would you tell me?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...


Photo by Eiliv-Sonas Aceron on Unsplash

10 Things That Made Me Happy This Week

Happy Friday! Today I'm linking up with Charlotte, Lindsay, and Beth for their weekly happy and grateful list link up.

1. DJ Cassidy's Pass the Mic: Volume 2

2. The Holderness Family's Back to School in 2020 episode

3. Hershey's Cookies 'n' Cream candy bar

4. Bindi Irwin's baby announcement 

5. Getting shipping notifications! Hooray for happy mail!

6. Me Time

7. Getting the boys prepared for digital learning

8. Decluttering my email

9. Working in my Positivity Journal

10. Naps

What made you happy this week?

Thanks for visiting!

Until next time...