Five on Friday - February 27, 2026

It's Friday!  I'm ready to get the weekend started.  Let's kick it off with my Five on Friday this this week ~

1.  Bridgerton - Part 2 of Season 4

I can hardly believe we’re down to the final four episodes of Season 4—I’ve been counting the days! I’m so excited to see how everything wraps up. Tomorrow I’m hosting a little Bridgerton-themed tea party for one of my book clubs, and it feels like the perfect excuse to fully immerse ourselves in all the romance, drama, and Regency-era glamour. We’ll be sipping tea, nibbling on sweet treats, and, of course, diving deep into the latest twists and turns of the series. Something tells me that once I press play, I won’t be able to stop—I’m fairly certain all four new episodes will be completely devoured before the weekend is over!

2.  Holloway House Floor Cleaner

Our hardwood floors had started to lose their luster and were looking a bit tired, so we decided to give Holloway House Floor Cleaner a try—and wow, what a difference! Oh. My. Goodness. They’re now gleaming brighter than when they were first installed. You would never guess they’ve endured 20 years of daily wear and tear.  It’s incredibly simple to use, and it leaves behind a protective layer that helps fill in tiny micro-scratches and smooth out the overall appearance of the floor. The finish looks even, refreshed, and beautifully polished. We couldn’t be happier with the results!

Available HERE

3.  Repairing Serum

My daughter-in-law recently gave me a bottle of COSRX Snail Mucin Repairing Serum, and I am beyond impressed! I had a few stubborn dry patches on my face that just wouldn’t seem to go away, but after only a handful of applications, they completely disappeared. My skin feels smoother, softer, and so much more hydrated.  This serum truly works wonders—and the best part is that it’s incredibly affordable. You don’t have to spend a fortune to get amazing results. It’s definitely earned a permanent spot in my skincare routine!

Available HERE

4.  New M&M Flavors

The creative team at Mars has clearly been hard at work dreaming up some fun new twists on a classic favorite. They’ve just rolled out three brand-new M&M’s flavors, and they sound absolutely delicious!  Now hitting shelves are Peanut Butter Cinnamon Roll, which combines that creamy peanut butter center with warm, bakery-inspired cinnamon sweetness; Cherry Chocolate Cupcake, a rich chocolatey treat with a fruity cherry flair; and Lemon Meringue Pie, a bright, zesty option that’s perfect for anyone who loves a citrusy dessert.  It’s always exciting to see what new flavor combinations they come up with next, and these dessert-inspired varieties definitely bring something fresh and playful to the candy aisle!

5.  Good idea...

I hope you have a wonderful weekend! My son and I are heading out on vacation together next week, so I’m planning to have all my packing finished before the weekend wraps up. It’s going to be a busy few days — we have our Bible small group meeting tonight, and tomorrow is the Bridgerton-themed tea party. So many fun things happening all at once! I can’t wait to share all the highlights with you. Be sure to follow along on Instagram for updates and a little behind-the-scenes peek at everything!

Bringing the Luck of the Irish to Our Mantel

Hello and welcome to Thinking Out Loud Thursday!  This is a time when I share something I'm thinking about and invite you to link up and do the same.  Today I'm sharing our St. Patrick's Day-themed mantel.

As soon as Valentine's was over, I was ready to pack away the winter look and bring in a little fresh green. Decorating the mantel for St. Patrick’s Day is such a fun and easy way to do just that. It doesn’t take much to instantly brighten the whole room. The mantel is one of the first things you notice when you walk in, so adding a touch of festive charm there feels like a simple way to celebrate the season and bring a little extra luck (and joy!) into our home. 

I had so much fun adding little leprechauns all across the mantel, tucking them in between the other décor so you spot them one by one. They’re peeking out from behind greenery, and adding just the right touch of whimsy to the display. 

To soften everything and bring in a fresh pop of color, I also added a few silk flower arrangements. The blooms add texture and fullness, and their cheerful green and white tones help brighten up the whole space. Together, the playful leprechauns and the florals make the mantel feel festive, layered, and perfectly ready for St. Patrick’s Day.

We’ve had a couple of St. Patrick’s Day-themed prints in our décor stash for years now, and somehow they still feel just as charming as the first time we used them up. Even though they make an appearance every March, they never feel tired or overused. Instead, they instantly bring that familiar pop of green and a festive spirit to the mantel. There’s something comforting about pulling them out year after year — it’s like welcoming back an old friend who knows exactly how to set the tone for the season. 

Decorating the mantel for St. Patrick’s Day may be a small change, but it makes such a big impact in our home. A few pops of green, some playful leprechauns, and those familiar prints instantly shift the space from winter to festive and fresh. I love how something so simple can bring a little extra cheer to our everyday routine. Now we’re all set to celebrate the season — and maybe enjoy a bit of luck along the way.

Now it's your turn.  What are you thinking out loud about today?  Link up and share!

Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop - February 25, 2026

 

Welcome to the Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop!  We are so glad that you stopped by.

Here you will find inspiration from dozens of bloggers, including recipes, home DIY, gardening, decor, family fun, traveling, fitness, and so much more.

A friendly reminder to our guests that, as a courtesy to the hosts, we ask that you follow every host on at least one social media channel.

If you are a blogger, then be sure to link up below. You may be our next feature! 

Before we get this party started, let’s meet the hosts and check out this week’s featured favorites.

MEET THE HOSTS

1. Bev – ECLECTIC RED BARN | FB | IG | PINTEREST
2. Penny – PENNY’S PASSION | FB | IG | PINTEREST
3. Sinea – DUCKS ‘N A ROW | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X
4. Tammy – MY LIFE ABUNDANT | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X | YOUTUBE
5. Denise – THIS IS MY EVERYBODY | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X | YOUTUBE
6. Angie – SALT PRAIRIE | IG | PINTEREST 

HIGHLIGHT LINKS

Glazed Pistachio Biscotti

Pear and Cheese Salad

Banana Nut Bread with Maple Syrup and Pecans

Paper Chain Octopus

LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!

Please follow all hosts on AT LEAST 1 of their social channels.

Add as many family-friendly posts as you would like to. NO Etsy shops, adult sites, or blog parties please.  Visit others. Caring is sharing. Like, comment, and pin posts.

Party entries appear in REVERSE. This way, your entries will be seen no matter when you arrive. Please TWEET our party and invite others to join.

Let’s Party! 

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

Five on Friday - February 20, 2026

It’s Friday! Even though it was a short work week for me, it somehow felt like it stretched on forever. Does anyone else feel that way sometimes? I’m extra happy to see Friday roll around and to know the weekend is finally here! Let’s jump into this week’s Five on Friday ~

1.  Little Debbie Birthday Cake

A brand-new Little Debbie treat is making its way to store shelves, and it’s ready to turn any ordinary day into a celebration! Who says you have to wait for your actual birthday to enjoy a slice of birthday cake? Now you can indulge in that classic party flavor whenever the craving strikes. This festive snack features soft, fluffy vanilla cake layered with sweet crème filling for that perfect balance of light and creamy. The entire cake is coated in smooth white icing and topped off with a generous sprinkle of bright rainbow confetti for a fun, cheerful finish. Even better, it comes in a unique hexagonal shape that makes it feel extra special and party-ready. Whether you’re packing it in a lunchbox, serving it as an after-dinner treat, or sneaking one with your afternoon coffee, this little celebration is sure to make the day a bit sweeter! 

2.  Be Your Own Bestie by Misha Brown

Misha Brown’s new book, Be Your Own Bestie, has been getting absolutely glowing reviews, and everywhere I turn someone is talking about how encouraging and empowering it is. From what I’ve heard, it’s filled with practical advice and heartfelt reminders about treating yourself with the same kindness and loyalty you so easily give to others. That alone has me so intrigued! I’m really looking forward to carving out some quiet time to dive in and see what all the buzz is about.

Here’s a quick summary of the book ~

You deserve happiness.
You deserve hope.
And you deserve a sassy best friend who can help you learn not to settle for less.

It’s time to start loving yourself radically. And Misha Brown—you may know him as @yourbestiemisha—is here to guide you along your journey of self-discovery, accountability, and most importantly, self-love. With his no-nonsense (but always loving) approach, Misha shares stories from his own life, encounters with others, and the wisdom gleaned from them to help you release the patterns, relationships, and beliefs that have kept you from stepping into your full fabulousness.

With equal parts hilarity and heart, Misha’s S.A.S.S. Method to glowing up your life consists of:

S – Self-reflection: Turn your focus inward to push away what’s been holding you back
A – Affirmations: Reshape the way you speak to and about yourself
S – Standing your ground: Set boundaries and stop apologizing
S – Sculpting the life you want: Take bold steps toward your own happily ever after

No matter where you are today, now is the time to begin showing up for yourself as your own best friend. Because you deserve it, bestie!

Available HERE

3.  The Last Thing He Told Me - Season 2

I'm carving out some time this weekend to watch the first episode in the second season of The Last Thing He Told Me.  I loved the book by Laura Dave and the first season, so I'm expected a lot from season 2.  It's streaming on Apple TV+.  We'll get to see a new episode every week on Fridays until April 10. Based on the sequel The First Time I Saw Him, the upcoming installment features a time jump, more revelations, a reunion, and even more danger that will get Hannah into mama bear mode as she struggles to figure out how to keep her daughter safe.

4.  Relaxed-Fit Cable Crewneck Sweater

I grabbed a new sweater from Amazon last week and I’m so glad I did — I absolutely love it! This classic cable-knit crewneck is such a great find and is currently priced at just $13.94. It’s incredibly soft, super comfortable, and best of all, machine washable (always a win!).  I was on the hunt for something easy and casual to pack for an upcoming trip, and this one checks every box. It’s perfect for layering, throwing on with jeans, or dressing up just a bit with accessories. It comes in three great colors and ships quickly, so you won’t have to wait long to wear it. Honestly, at that price, you might want to add one — or maybe even all three — to your closet!

Available HERE

5.  Hmmm...

Have a great weekend!  I'm excited to be having lunch with a friend tomorrow, then we're having a few friends over for dinner tomorrow night.  Hope your weekend if full of fun too!  See you next week.

Three Tiers of Irish Cheer

Hello and welcome to Thinking Out Loud Thursday.  This is a time when I share something I'm thinking about the invite to you link up and do the same.  Today I'm thinking all about our St. Patrick's Day themed tiered tray!

The minute Valentine’s Day was behind us, we pulled out all the green and started decorating for St. Patrick’s Day! Our tiered tray, which sits in the kitchen window, is now overflowing with shamrocks and a little bit of shenanigans. It was definitely time to swap out the wintery evergreen for something lighter and more spring-inspired.

All three tiers are filled to the brim with shamrocks and cheerful little leprechauns! From top to bottom, each layer has its own festive touch — pops of bright green, playful Irish accents, and just enough whimsy to make it feel extra fun. Every tier adds a little more luck and charm, creating a sweet St. Patrick’s Day display that makes our kitchen feel ready for all the shamrocks and shenanigans March can bring. 

The teapot that graced the window during our Valentine’s display decided to stick around for St. Patrick’s Day, too. Instead of packing it away, I loved the idea of letting it transition right into the next holiday. With a few shamrocks and touches of green added around it, the teapot feels perfectly at home in its new festive setting. Sometimes it’s the simplest pieces that can carry over from season to season with just a little styling tweak — and this one was too sweet to put away just yet.

With just a few extra touches here and there, the window came together perfectly! A couple of small accents were all it needed to feel complete — festive, cheerful, and ready for St. Patrick’s Day. 

Now that the kitchen window is finished, I'm moving on to the mantle.  You'll be seeing that on the blog soon!

Now it's your turn.  What are you thinking out loud about today?  Link up and share!

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop - February 18, 2026

 

Welcome to the Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop!  We are so glad that you stopped by.

Here you will find inspiration from dozens of bloggers, including recipes, home DIY, gardening, decor, family fun, traveling, fitness, and so much more.

A friendly reminder to our guests that, as a courtesy to the hosts, we ask that you follow every host on at least one social media channel.

If you are a blogger, then be sure to link up below. You may be our next feature! 

Before we get this party started, let’s meet the hosts and check out this week’s featured favorites.

MEET THE HOSTS

1. Bev – ECLECTIC RED BARN | FB | IG | PINTEREST
2. Penny – PENNY’S PASSION | FB | IG | PINTEREST
3. Sinea – DUCKS ‘N A ROW | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X
4. Tammy – MY LIFE ABUNDANT | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X | YOUTUBE
5. Denise – THIS IS MY EVERYBODY | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X | YOUTUBE
6. Angie – SALT PRAIRIE | IG | PINTEREST 

HIGHLIGHT LINKS

Red Velvet Meringues

Cherry & Almond Strudel Bites

Coffee Filter Dragonfly Craft for Kids

Buckwheat Upside Down Plum Cake

LET’S GET THIS PARTY STARTED!

Please follow all hosts on AT LEAST 1 of their social channels.

Add as many family-friendly posts as you would like to. NO Etsy shops, adult sites, or blog parties please.  Visit others. Caring is sharing. Like, comment, and pin posts.

Party entries appear in REVERSE. This way, your entries will be seen no matter when you arrive. Please TWEET our party and invite others to join.

Let’s Party! 

You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!

Click here to enter

Five on Friday - February 13, 2026

Happy Friday!  What a great weekend - Valentine's Day tomorrow and Presidents' Day on Monday.  I'm looking forward to a fun long weekend.  Kicking things off by sharing my five for today ~

1.  Wuthering Heights

I honestly can't decide from the previews if I'm going to like this movie or not.  But it looks intriguing enough that I definitely want to see it!  Here's the summary ~

Wuthering Heights is the multigenerational love story between the free-spirited Catherine and Heathcliffe. The pair, having grown up together since childhood, have always loved each other, but their class differences — and Heathcliffe’s background as a foundling — prohibit them from being together. Heathcliffe goes off to make his fortune, hoping his new circumstances will finally win him Cathy, only to discover she has married the wealthy Edgar Linton. 

The book continues on and explores the lives of the next generation: namely, Catherine’s daughter with Edgar (also named Cathy, of course), Heathcliffe’s son with Isabella Linton, the sickly Linton Heathcliffe, and Hareton Earnshaw, Catherine’s nephew. Hareton, raised as Heathcliffe’s ward, soon finds himself falling for Cathy Jr., with the question of whether history will repeat itself. 

Because of the confusing repetition of names and the similarities in the plot, most film adaptations tend to focus on the first 23 chapters of Bronte’s novel, and on Catherine and Heathcliffe’s relationship exclusively. It’s unknown whether Fennell’s take will touch on any of this, though it’s doubtful based on the trailers.

2.  Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette

A series I’m definitely adding to my watch list is Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette. The first of three episodes premiered last night on FX. This limited series dives into the undeniable chemistry, whirlwind courtship, and high-profile marriage of this iconic couple, offering a closer look at their captivating and often scrutinized love story.  From their fairytale beginnings to the realities of living under constant media attention, the series promises a more intimate portrait of a relationship that captivated the world and continues to fascinate decades later.  Can't wait to see it!

3.  Chobani Raspberry Rose Coffee Creamer   

Looking for a sweet little way to surprise your special someone this Valentine’s Day? Add a little extra love to their morning cup with this festive coffee creamer! It’s such an easy (and delicious) way to make an everyday routine feel a bit more special. Imagine starting the day with a cozy cup of coffee infused with a hint of Valentine-inspired flavor — it’s a small gesture that feels thoughtful and fun.  Even better, this seasonal creamer is available for a very limited time — only through February 15 — and you can find it at Target. If you want to treat your sweetheart (or yourself!) don’t wait too long before grabbing a bottle. Limited-edition flavors like this tend to disappear quickly! 

4.  Lucky Sweatshirt

As soon as Valentine’s Day wraps up, St. Patrick’s Day will be right around the corner — it always feels like the holidays come in quick succession!  I’m already getting into the festive spirit by planning ahead, and I’ve got my eye on this adorable St. Patrick’s Day sweatshirt. I’m adding it to my Amazon cart now so I’ll be fully prepared to celebrate in style, whether I’m enjoying a cozy day at home or heading out to a parade or festive gathering. It’s never too early to embrace a little luck-of-the-Irish fun!

Available HERE

5.  Just a thought...

In case you missed me sharing our Valentine themed tiered tray, you can see it HERE.

Hope you have a wonderful Happy Valentine’s Day, friends!  Whether you’re celebrating with a special someone, family, friends, or just treating yourself, I hope your day is full of little moments of love, laughter, and sweetness. Take a moment to savor your favorite treat, cozy up with a warm drink, and remember — love comes in so many forms!  See you next week!