Five on Friday - April 4, 2025

Happy Friday! This week has been a whirlwind, and I’m so relieved the weekend is finally here. Let’s dive right into my five for this week! ~

1.  Say You'll Remember Me

Abby Jimenez's newest book came out this week!  I've enjoyed her previous best-sellers from her Friend Zone series and am excited to dive into this new stand-alone novel.  Here's the summary ~

There's no such thing as a perfect guy, but Xavier Rush comes disastrously close. A gorgeous veterinarian giving Greek god vibes—all while cuddling a tiny kitten? Immediate yes. That is until Xavier opens his mouth and proves that even sculpted gods can say the absolute wrong thing. Like, really wrong. Of course, there’s nothing Samantha loves more than proving an asshole wrong . . . unless, of course, he can admit he made a mistake.

But after one incredible and seemingly endless date, Samantha is forced to admit the truth, that her family is in crisis and any kind of relationship would be impossible. Samantha begs Xavier to forget her. To remember their night together as a perfect moment, as crushing as that may be. Only no amount of distance or time is enough to forget what's between them. And the only thing better than one single perfect memory is to make a life—and even a love—worth remembering.

Available HERE

2.  Workout Shirt

We had a brief spell of warm weather a few weeks ago, which got me thinking about summer. Realizing my summer workout shirts needed a refresh, I ordered this one from Amazon—and I love it! The fabric is breathable, the length is perfect for pickleball, and the price is fantastic!  I see a few more clothes working their way into my closet.

Available HERE

3.  Eye Lash Primer

Based on a recommendation from another blogger, I decided to try this lash primer from Amazon, and I’m so glad I did! It goes on smoothly, creating the perfect base for mascara while making my lashes appear noticeably longer and fuller. The difference is incredible—my lashes look more voluminous and defined, almost as if I’m wearing falsies! If you’re looking for an easy way to enhance your lashes, this primer is definitely worth a try.

Available HERE

4.  Whipped Frosting

Pillsbury has introduced a delicious new addition to the baking aisle—whipped frosting! The flavors sound absolutely scrumptious, with options like chocolate, strawberry delight, buttercream, and sweet cream. Each tub has enough frosting to decorate 24 cupcakes, but the possibilities don’t stop there! These fluffy frostings would make perfect fillings for whoopie pies or even a tasty dip for cookies. Honestly, they sound so good, I might just grab a spoon and eat it straight from the container!

5.  Seriously...

Have a fantastic weekend! We were all set to see the Savannah Bananas at Busch Stadium, but earlier this week, they postponed the game until July because of expected rain all weekend. On the bright side, that just gives us something to look forward to for a little longer! Luckily, we have plenty of other fun plans lined up for the weekend, and I can’t wait to wrap up the workday and dive into it all. See you next week!

What I Read in March 2025

Hello!  So glad you popped in today for Thinking Out Loud Thursday.  I'm going to share something with you and then you'll have a chance to link up and share what you are thinking out loud about.  On the first Thursday of the month, I share the books I read the previous month.  Here's what I read in March ~

The Dutch House by Ann Patchett

Our library book club book last month was The Dutch House.  This book had been on my shelf forever and it just hadn't bubbled to the top.  I was glad the book club selected this one so I could finally cross it off my TBR list.  Then, when I learned that Tom Hanks narrated the audible version I decided I wanted to listen to it instead of reading.  He did a great job and made the book very enjoyable!  Here's the summary ~

At the end of the Second World War, Cyril Conroy combines luck and a single canny investment to begin an enormous real estate empire, propelling his family from poverty to enormous wealth. His first order of business is to buy the Dutch House, a lavish estate in the suburbs outside of Philadelphia. Meant as a surprise for his wife, the house sets in motion the undoing of everyone he loves.

The story is told by Cyril’s son Danny, as he and his older sister, the brilliantly acerbic and self-assured Maeve, are exiled from the house where they grew up by their stepmother. The two wealthy siblings are thrown back into the poverty their parents had escaped from and find that all they have to count on is one another. It is this unshakeable bond between them that both saves their lives and thwarts their futures.

Set over the course of five decades, The Dutch House is a dark fairy tale about two smart people who cannot overcome their past. Despite every outward sign of success, Danny and Maeve are only truly comfortable when they’re together. Throughout their lives they return to the well-worn story of what they’ve lost with humor and rage. But when at last they’re forced to confront the people who left them behind, the relationship between an indulged brother and his ever-protective sister is finally tested.

Available HERE

The Fall Risk:  A Short Story by Abby Jimenez

In February, this book was offered as a free bonus through Amazon First Reads. I usually enjoy Abby Jimenez’s work, and this one was no exception. At just 82 pages, it’s a quick read you can easily finish in one sitting.  Here's the summary ~

It’s Valentine’s Day weekend, and Charlotte and Seth are not looking for romance. Armed with emotional-support bear spray, Charlotte is in self-imposed isolation and on guard from men. Having a stalker can do that to a person’s nerves. Just across the hall and giving off woodsy vibes is Seth, a recently divorced arborist. As in today recently. Heights, he’s fine with. Trust? Not so much. But when disaster traps them one flight up and no way down, an outrageously precarious predicament forces a tree-loving guy and a rattled girl next door to embrace their captivity. Soon their defenses are breaking away. Considering how close they both are to the edge, Charlotte and Seth could be in danger of falling—in love.

Available HERE

The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens

I’m not sure where I first heard about this book, but it was a fantastic find! I enjoyed it so much that I’m planning to recommend it for my book club. After finishing, I discovered it’s the first in a five-book series—and I wasted no time diving into the second one on my Kindle! Here's the summary of The Life We Bury ~

College student Joe Talbert has the modest goal of completing a writing assignment for an English class. His task is to interview a stranger and write a brief biography of the person. With deadlines looming, Joe heads to a nearby nursing home to find a willing subject. There he meets Carl Iverson, and soon nothing in Joe's life is ever the same. Carl is a dying Vietnam veteran--and a convicted murderer. With only a few months to live, he has been medically paroled to a nursing home, after spending thirty years in prison for the crimes of rape and murder. As Joe writes about Carl's life, especially Carl's valor in Vietnam, he cannot reconcile the heroism of the soldier with the despicable acts of the convict. Joe, along with his skeptical female neighbor, throws himself into uncovering the truth, but he is hamstrung in his efforts by having to deal with his dangerously dysfunctional mother, the guilt of leaving his autistic brother vulnerable, and a haunting childhood memory. Thread by thread, Joe unravels the tapestry of Carl’s conviction. But as he and Lila dig deeper into the circumstances of the crime, the stakes grow higher. Will Joe discover the truth before it’s too late to escape the fallout?

Available HERE

The Guise of Another by Allen Eskens

The second book in the series was just as good—if not better—than the first! It was packed with surprises that had me gasping out loud more than once. I’m taking a short break before jumping into Book 3, but I’m definitely excited to continue the series! Here's the summary of The Guise of Another ~

Who was James Putnam? Answering that question may mean salvation for Alexander Rupert, a Minnesota detective whose life is in a serious downward spiral. A Medal of Valor winner, Alexander is now under subpoena by a grand jury on suspicion of corruption. He’s been reassigned to the Frauds Unit, where he is shunned by his fellow detectives, and he fears his status-seeking wife may be having an affair. When he happens across a complex case of identity theft, Alexander sees an opportunity to rehabilitate his tattered reputation. But the case explodes into far more than he could have expected, putting him in the path of trained assassin Drago Basta, a veteran of the Balkan wars who has been searching for “James Putnam” for years. As his life spins out of control, Alexander’s last hope may be his older brother, Max, a fellow police detective who steps in to try to save his brother from the carnage his investigation has let loose. From the Trade Paperback edition.

Available HERE

The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins

The popular book Let Them was a fascinating read. What made it even more enjoyable was that we started a small book club at work, and this was our very first pick. We split it in half, discussing the first part one month and the rest the next. I loved hearing everyone’s perspectives—some I agreed with, others challenged my views, which made for great discussions. Overall, I’m glad I read it! Several moments made me pause and really think about different situations.

What if the key to happiness, success, and love was as simple as two words?

If you've ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated with where you are, the problem isn't you. The problem is the power you give to other people. Two simple words—Let Them—will set you free. Free from the opinions, drama, and judgments of others. Free from the exhausting cycle of trying to manage everything and everyone around you. The Let Them Theory puts the power to create a life you love back in your hands—and this book will show you exactly how to do it.

In her latest groundbreaking book, The Let Them Theory, Mel Robbins—New York Times bestselling author and one of the world's most respected experts on motivation, confidence, and mindset—teaches you how to stop wasting energy on what you can't control and start focusing on what truly matters: YOU. Your happiness. Your goals. Your life.

Using the same no-nonsense, science-backed approach that's made The Mel Robbins Podcast a global sensation, Robbins explains why The Let Them Theory is already loved by millions and how you can apply it in eight key areas of your life to make the biggest impact. Within a few pages, you'll realize how much energy and time you've been wasting trying to control the wrong things—at work, in relationships, and in pursuing your goals—and how this is keeping you from the happiness and success you deserve.

Written as an easy-to-understand guide, Robbins shares relatable stories from her own life, highlights key takeaways, relevant research and introduces you to world-renowned experts in psychology, neuroscience, relationships, happiness, and ancient wisdom who champion The Let Them Theory every step of the way.

Learn how to:

Stop wasting energy on things you can't control
Stop comparing yourself to other people
Break free from fear and self-doubt
Release the grip of people's expectations
Build the best friendships of your life
Create the love you deserve
Pursue what truly matters to you with confidence
Build resilience against everyday stressors and distractions
Define your own path to success, joy, and fulfillment. . . and so much more.

The Let Them Theory will forever change the way you think about relationships, control, and personal power. Whether you want to advance your career, motivate others to change, take creative risks, find deeper connections, build better habits, start a new chapter, or simply create more happiness in your life and relationships, this book gives you the mindset and tools to unlock your full potential.

Available HERE

Savannah Blues by Mary Kay Andrews

When a girls' trip took me to Savannah in February, I decided to pick up a book set in the area—Savannah Blues was the perfect choice! It was a fun, lighthearted read, though it took me longer to finish than expected. In my defense, it’s 512 pages! If you enjoy Mary Kay Andrews’ books, you’ll likely love this one. It’s the first in a four-book series, and I’m invested enough in the characters that I’m sure I’ll get around to reading the rest eventually.

If you think you know Savannah, think again . . .

Landing a catch like Talmadge Evans III encouraged Eloise “Weezie” Foley to buy a gem of a townhouse in Savannah's historic district. Divorcing Tal got her exiled to the backyard carriage house, where she’s launched a spite-fest with Tal's new fiancé, the elegant Caroline DeSantos.

An antiques picker, Weezie combs Savannah's steamy back alleys and garage sales for treasures when she's not dealing with her loopy relatives or her hunky ex-boyfriend. But an unauthorized sneak preview at a sale lands Weezie smack in the middle of magnolia-scented murder, mayhem . . . and more. Dirty deals simmer all around her, just as her relationship with the hottest chef in town heats up and she finds out how delicious love can be the second time around.

Available HERE

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

Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop - April 2, 2025

 

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

HIGHLIGHT LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

Spring is in the Air Cottage Home Tour

Free Printable April 2025 Planner

Garlic Pita Bites

5 Minute Easter Candy Jars with Dollar Tree Supplies

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! 

Five on Friday - March 28, 2025

Let's hear it for Friday!  This has been an amazingly fun and busy week.  I'm ready to relax a little and catch my breath.  First up is today's Five on Friday ~

1.  The Friend

Going on my list of movies I want to see is the new release, The Friend.  This movie stars Bill Murray, Naomi Watts, and a Great Dane!  Here's the summary ~

In The Friend, writer and teacher Iris (Naomi Watts) finds her comfortable, solitary New York life thrown into disarray after her closest friend and mentor (Bill Murray) dies suddenly and bequeaths her his beloved 150 lb. Great Dane. The regal yet intractable beast, named Apollo, immediately creates practical problems for Iris, from furniture destruction to eviction notices, as well as more existential ones, his looming presence constantly reminding her of her friend's problematic choices in both life and death. Yet as Iris finds herself unexpectedly bonding with the animal, she begins to come to terms with her past, her lost friend, and her own creative inner life.

2.  I Am Maria:  My Reflections and Poems

​Maria Shriver's upcoming book, I Am Maria: My Reflections and Poems on Heartbreak, Healing, and Finding Your Way Home, is scheduled for release on April 1, 2025. This deeply personal collection of poetry delves into themes of identity, grief, love, loss, and healing, offering readers an intimate look into Shriver's journey through life's transitions and challenges.  Definitely going on my TBR list!  Here's the summary ~

A book like no other, I Am Maria weaves Shriver’s hard-earned wisdom with her own deeply personal poetry. I Am Maria reminds readers there is strength and love on the other side of all of our hardest days.

I Am Maria is a powerful collection of Maria Shriver’s own poems that grapple with identity, grief, love, loss, longing, heartbreak and healing.

Her deeply personal poems address life’s transitions, challenges, successes and failures. Vulnerable and deeply moving, Shriver’s words are a collection of her life experiences woven into poetry to inspire everyone on their own journey. It is also an invitation for readers to write their own personal poetry, reclaiming the art as accessible to everyone and a tool to look within.

I Am Maria is a roadmap for anyone trying to shed the labels, layers, and armor that holds us back from creating a wildly authentic and meaningful life.

Available HERE

3. Sheer Socks

Have you seen the buzz on social media and the runways? Socks are officially back! We’re living in a sock-celebrating era, and I’m here for it. My current sock drawer isn’t exactly stocked with pairs I’d want to wear with my loafers this spring, so it’s time for an upgrade. These sheer socks are stylish, trendy, and absolutely essential. I’m getting some!

Available HERE

4.  Dairy Queen Deal

Want to snag a small blizzard from Dairy Queen for only 85 cents?  Between March 24 and April 6, Dairy Queen Reward members can get this deal with a purchase of at least $1.  To sweeten the deal, the new summer blizzard treat menu is releasing on March 31, consisting of two new flavors, two comebacks, and one ultimate fan favorite.  New is the Mixing Bowl Mashup and Dipped Strawberry Cheesecake.  Coming back is the Cotton Candy and Confetti Cake blizzards and the flavor that won the fan vote is S'Mores.  I can't decide which one to try first!  If you're not a member of their rewards program, to join visit dairyqueen.com/en-us/rewards/.

5.  Thought...

Now let's get this weekend started!  We are meeting friends for dinner tonight and I'm sure there will be lots of NCAA basketball watching over the weekend too.  Hope you have a fantastic time doing whatever is on your list.  See you next week!

Girls Trip to Tybee Island

I'm so happy you stopped by for Thinking Out Loud Thursday! Today, I'm reflecting on something that brought me so much joy. I recently went on a girls' trip with four of my friends, and it was an absolute blast! I'll be sharing a recap of our adventure, and then you'll have a chance to link up and share what’s on your mind today.

Almost two years ago, I left the workplace where I had spent nearly 30 years. During that time, I built some incredible friendships! This year, two of those dear friends are retiring, and we decided to celebrate with a girls' trip. We chose Tybee Island as our destination—a place I had visited once before and was thrilled to return to.

Tybee Island, a charming barrier island off the coast of Georgia, is a hidden gem known for its laid-back atmosphere, sandy beaches, and rich history. Just a short drive from Savannah, this coastal paradise offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The island boasts stunning sunrises over the Atlantic, a historic lighthouse with breathtaking views, and a vibrant pier where visitors can fish or simply soak in the ocean breeze. Its quaint streets are lined with colorful cottages, unique shops, and delicious seafood restaurants serving up fresh local catches. 

We rented a condo with an amazing deck that overlooked the ocean, offering breathtaking sunrise views each morning. The beach was just out the front of the building, allowing us to stroll along the shore whenever we pleased. One of the things I love about this beach is its firm sand, which makes it easy to walk for miles without straining my ankles like softer, looser sand often does.  On one of our strolls, I found a perfect sand dollar!

Each morning, as I got up to watch the sunrise, I left a riddle on the refrigerator for the girls to solve. It became a fun little tradition, and they loved trying to guess the answer. It added such a playful touch to our trip that I’ve decided to make it a tradition for all future getaways! (Thanks Sherry for this idea!)

Nacho Cheese!

French Flies!

A Milk Shake!

Someplace Cheep!

Savannah is just a 30-minute drive from Tybee Island, and we took advantage of its charm by making two trips into the city to explore. On our first visit, we enjoyed a horse-drawn carriage tour, dined at the historic Olde Pink House, and ended the night with a thrilling Ghosts and Gravestones tour. Each of these experiences was unforgettable, and I would highly recommend them to anyone visiting Savannah!

The second day into the city, we visited the breathtaking Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, the famous Fountain at Forsyth Park, and one of my favorite bookstores, E. Shavers.  

One of the highlights of our trip was reconnecting with a former coworker who had relocated to the Savannah area. After years apart, it was wonderful to reunite, reminisce, and catch up on each other’s lives. The laughter and shared memories made it feel like no time had passed at all!

This trip was the perfect mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and memory-making. In between our adventures, we worked on a puzzle together—a fun challenge that kept us entertained. At times, we weren’t sure if we’d finish it, but in the end, we pulled it off, adding yet another special moment to our unforgettable getaway!

This girls' trip is a truly special experience, filled with laughter, bonding, and unforgettable memories. Whether it's a relaxing beach getaway, a city adventure, or a cozy cabin retreat, spending time with your closest friends allows you to unwind, recharge, and reconnect. It’s a chance to escape the daily routine, indulge in new experiences, and celebrate friendship in its purest form. From heart-to-heart conversations to spontaneous adventures, every moment becomes a cherished memory. The joy of exploring new places, sharing inside jokes, and simply being in the company of those who uplift and understand you makes a girls' trip an absolute treasure.  I feel so blessed to have shared this experience with this fantastic group of women!

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

Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop - March 26, 2025

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

HIGHLIGHT LINKS FROM LAST WEEK

Nutter Butter Bunny Feet Easter Cookies

Homemade Lime Bars

Ladybugs on a Spring Tablescape

Chunky Raspberry Vinaigrette

DIY Yard Mushrooms

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! 

Five on Friday - March 21, 2025

Happy Spring! Yesterday marked the official start of the season, bringing longer days and the excitement of summer inching closer—both of which I’m really looking forward to! We’re also thrilled about the NCAA basketball tournament—it’s always a blast to watch the games and track our bracket progress. Before the next round of matchups begins, here’s this week’s Five on Friday ~

1.  Snow White Movie

Disney's latest movie, Snow White, opens this weekend.  Can you believe the original Disney version of Snow White came out almost 90 years ago!  I'm kind of surprised it's taken Disney this long to give us a remake.  I've seen mixed reviews, but that won't keep us from heading to the theater to see it.  In case you have no clue what Snow White is about, here's the summary ~

"Disney's Snow White," a live-action musical reimagining of the classic 1937 film, opens exclusively in theaters March 21, 2025. Starring Rachel Zegler ("West Side Story") in the title role and Gal Gadot ("Wonder Woman") as her Stepmother, the Evil Queen, the magical music adventure journeys back to the timeless story with beloved characters Bashful, Doc, Dopey, Grumpy, Happy, Sleepy, and Sneezy.

2.  Story of My Life by Lucy Score

Lucy Score, author of the Knockemout series (Things We Never Got Over, Things We Hide from the Light, and Things We Left Behind) is introducing us to her newest series Story Lake.  Book 1, Story of My Life, came out on March 11 and went straight to my TBR list.  This one will take some time to read because it's 577 pages long!  But, if it's like her other books, I know I'll enjoy it.  Here's the summary ~

Hazel Hart was a successful romance novelist until a breakup drives her straight into writer’s block. Having failed (and failed some more) to deliver her new manuscript, she’s hiding from the world behind a wall of old takeout containers until her publisher lays down the law. If she misses her next deadline it’s The End.

Desperate for inspiration, Hazel impulse-buys a historic home online and flees Manhattan to tiny Story Lake, PA. Upon her dramatic arrival—involving an incident with a bald eagle—she discovers the charm of her new home may have been slightly exaggerated.

The house is a wreck and the town is struggling after their biggest employer shut down. Also, since her raccoon-infested home came with a seat on the town council our introverted heroine is stuck with a front row seat to all the small-town shenanigans.

But Hazel isn’t worried. Not since all six-feet-three inches of grouchy contractor Campbell Bishop slapped a bandage on her forehead and unintentionally inspired the heck out of her. There’s only one thing to do: Hire Cam and his equally gorgeous brothers to renovate her new spider museum…er…house.

Okay two things. A fake date for “research purposes” will really put her work-in-progress on track. Before Hazel knows it, she’s writing a romance novel and living one. At least until the drywall dust settles, the town she’s falling in love with faces bankruptcy, and growly Cam remembers why he can’t live happily ever after.

Available HERE

3.  Desk Pencil Holder

We are slowly but surely adding an office space to my craft room.  The desk and computer screens are in place.  I quickly realized I needed a space to store my pens and highlighters.  Then I remembered the rotating holder I got for my bathroom to store my makeup in!  It is perfect for desk supplies!  I ordered it in pink and it's now helping keep my desk look neat and organized.  The best part - it's functional and priced right!

Available HERE

4.  The Twister:  Caught in the Storm

In 2011, a powerful tornado tore through Joplin, Missouri, tragically claiming 161 lives. Netflix's new documentary, The Twister: Caught in the Storm, explores the storm's devastating impact on the town and its families. I remember being glued to the television as it unfolded, and I’m eager to watch this documentary.

5.  Maybe tomorrow...

That wraps up this week’s Five on Friday! I hope you have a fantastic weekend filled with fun, relaxation, and maybe even a little basketball. See you next week for more updates and favorites!