Penny's Passion

Friday, June 26, 2026

Five on Friday - June 26, 2026

Happy Friday! I'm off to help with a wedding today, so instead of my usual chit-chat, I'm jumping right into this week's five favorites. Let's get started!

1.  Lucky Strike
Lucky Strike opens today and is going on my list of movies I want to watch.  If you're a fan of World War II stories, Lucky Strike is a tense survival thriller inspired by true events. Set during the brutal Battle of the Bulge, the film follows an injured American soldier who becomes trapped behind enemy lines and must rely on his courage, resourcefulness, and a field radio to evade Nazi forces and find his way back to safety. Starring Scott Eastwood, the movie delivers suspense, action, and a gripping look at one man's fight to survive against overwhelming odds.


2.  It Could Have Been Her by Lisa Jewell
Lisa Jewell's newest book was released this week and it sounds like a great ready.  Here's the summary ~
Jane Trevally is walking her dogs on her country estate when a small white terrier appears, alone and with no sign of the teenaged girl he’d been staying with nearby. When the teenager is reported missing, Jane offers to return the dog to his registered owner, hours away in London. Arriving at a run-down house called Thornwood in the deepest backwaters of Hampstead, she is immediately on alert—because Jane has a dark history with this house.

The man who answers the door is not the man that Jane remembers from her past. He is cagey, and claims to know nothing about the missing teenage girl. Then, through the window of the house, Jane catches a glimpse of a haunted-looking woman.

Conjuring her memories from twenty-five years ago, Jane knows this unsettling house holds the key—to the missing teenager, to her own traumatic story, and to the dark secrets of the past.
I've been hearing so much about dirty sodas lately, and it has me wanting to try making fun, coffee shop-style drinks at home! This large-capacity milk frother seems like such a great tool for that—it can create rich, creamy hot or cold foam in just a couple of minutes, which would be perfect for topping everything from iced coffees and lattes to hot chocolate and those trendy dirty sodas. I also love that it can heat milk for cozy morning drinks. The stainless steel design looks sleek on the countertop, and the larger 350ml capacity means you can make enough for more than one drink at a time. If you're into experimenting with specialty drinks at home, this seems like a really fun addition to the kitchen!  As a bonus, it's on sale during Amazon Prime Days!

4.  Season Five of The Bear
One of television's most acclaimed dramas is back! The Bear returned this week with its fifth and final season, giving fans one last trip into the fast-paced, high-pressure world of Carmy and his restaurant crew. All eight episodes dropped at once, making it the perfect weekend binge if you've been following the series. Known for its incredible performances, emotional storytelling, and edge-of-your-seat kitchen chaos, this final season promises plenty of heartfelt moments as the team fights for one last shot at success. If you've been waiting to see how their story ends, now's the time to grab your favorite snack and settle in!


5.  Try this one...


Well, it's time for me to go help make a bride's wedding dreams come true! This wedding is especially meaningful because it's the daughter of some of our dearest friends. She's planned so many beautiful details, and I know the day is going to be absolutely stunning. I can't wait to see everything come together! Wishing you a wonderful weekend, and I'll see you back here next week!


Wednesday, June 24, 2026

Let's Go to Belgium - Day 6 in Brussels!

Hello, and thanks for stopping by for Thinking Out Loud Thursday! This is my little corner of the internet where I share what's been on my mind and invite you to link up and do the same. Today, I'm wrapping up my Belgium adventure with my son, Ian, by sharing highlights from Day 6 of our trip. If you missed any of the earlier recaps, you can catch up on them here ~
Day 1     |     Day 2     |     Day 3     |     Day 4     |     Day 5

Day 6 was our final full day in Belgium. We had originally considered taking a day trip to Ghent, but with reports of a possible train strike, we decided not to risk transportation headaches on our last day. After our busy and exciting adventure in Paris on Day 5, we were also feeling a little tired and ready for a slower pace. Instead, we chose to spend the day exploring more of Brussels and checking out a few sights we hadn't had a chance to visit yet. As an added bonus, Day 6 was also Ian's birthday, making it the perfect day to relax, celebrate, and enjoy our remaining time in Belgium.

One of the attractions at the top of Ian's Brussels wish list was the EU Parliament museum. He was completely fascinated by it and thoroughly enjoyed exploring the exhibits. As for me, I was content to relax on a nearby bench and do a little people-watching. Needless to say, I didn't take a single photo during this stop!

Next, we headed to Cinquantenaire Park to relax for a while. Spring was just starting to make its appearance, with colorful flowers beginning to bloom, and the weather couldn't have been more beautiful. We had both brought along something to read, but instead spent our time talking and enjoying each other's company. It was such a special way to spend the day, and I treasured the opportunity to celebrate his birthday with him.


For dinner, we had reservations at The Lobster House.  We hadn't had mussels yet and doesn't everyone need to have them in Brussels?!?  They were divine!



Instead of birthday cake, we decided chocolate-covered strawberries would be better!


We enjoyed our dessert as we wandered through the beautiful Grand Place. Although we had passed through the square several times earlier in the day, seeing it illuminated at night was an entirely different experience. The historic guildhalls and ornate buildings seemed to glow against the dark sky, creating a truly breathtaking scene. We strolled slowly, savoring every bite of our treat while taking in the stunning architecture and lively atmosphere around us. It was the perfect way to end the evening and one of those moments that made us pause and appreciate just how magical Brussels can be after sunset.


Day 7 was our journey home, bringing an unforgettable week to a close. As we left the hotel that morning, a steady rain was falling, and it seemed to mirror exactly how we were feeling. Neither of us was quite ready for the adventure to end. We had spent the past week making memories, exploring beautiful places, and enjoying time together, and it was hard to say goodbye to it all.

As much as I was looking forward to being back home, I found myself reflecting on all the wonderful experiences we had shared throughout the trip. I feel incredibly blessed that Ian was able to travel with me and that we had the opportunity to create so many special memories together. It was a fantastic vacation from beginning to end, and one that I know we'll both remember and cherish for years to come.

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

 

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.
  1. Penny – PENNY’S PASSION | FB | IG | PINTEREST
  2. Sinea – DUCKS ‘N A ROW | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X
  3. Tammy – MY LIFE ABUNDANT | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X | YOUTUBE
  4. Denise – THIS IS MY EVERYBODY | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X | YOUTUBE

HIGHLIGHT LINKS 

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

Friday, June 19, 2026

Five on Friday - June 19, 2026

Hello!  Happy Juneteenth!  I'm so happy to be off work today.  My to-do list is a mile long, so let me get right to my five for this week ~

1.  Toy Story 5
I'm so excited about Toy Story 5 opening today!  It's hard to believe that Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the gang have been part of our lives for so many years.  Every movie has managed to bring laughter, adventure, and a few tears along the way, and I can't wait to see what comes next for these beloved characters.  Whether you're a longtime fan or grew up watching the films with your kids, there's something special about returning to the world of Toy Story.  I'm ready to grab some popcorn and enjoy!


2.  Come Undone by Eddie Huang
Eddie Huang's new novel came out this week and is getting some buzz.  It sounds like a book I'd like to read.  Here's the summary ~
Hubie lives an exciting life. He hosts a traveling food show, works with his best friend, and samples the best the world has to offer. There’s only one problem: his love life. Hubie treats his romantic partners as courses on a tasting menu. His one rule when it comes to love: three months and it’s over. Hubie is no hubby.

Then he meets Anastasia, a mysterious woman who seems to share his approach to life—she wants fun, sex, and the freedom to depart before dawn. They have chance encounters in glamorous locations around the world—a luxury spa in the Utah desert, a cliffside hideaway in Jamaica, exclusive Los Angeles parties—where they party and flirt with electric energy, but are always with other partners. When they finally connect, the chemistry is undeniable. Just as they find a way to be together, the specters of their pasts—the secrets and burdens beneath their carefree exteriors—arise to threaten everything. Will they truly embrace each other, flaws and all? Can they shake off shame, regret, and the lingering weight of old wounds to open themselves fully to love?

Sharply comic but with hidden depths, Come Undone is about how we run from love and how it hunts us down.

Are the kiddos needing something fun to do already this summer?  This clever little gadget turns making homemade ice cream into an activity everyone can enjoy. Simply add the ingredients, fill the outer chamber with ice and rock salt, and then roll, toss, or gently play with the ball while the ice cream freezes inside.  In about 25 minutes, you'll have a delicious batch of homemade ice cream and plenty of laughs along the way.  It's a great way to get kids and adults involved, and it makes dessert feel like part of the entertainment rather than just the ending to a meal.


4.  ALDI's Blind Boxes
ALDI is bringing a little extra fun to grocery shopping with its free Blind Box giveaway happening June 22 through June 25. Each day at noon Eastern time, shoppers will have a chance to snag a limited-edition mystery box filled with ALDI favorites—ranging from snacks and pantry staples to protein-packed and fiber-focused assortments. There are four themed boxes total, including a Snack Box, Protein Box, Fiber Box, and a surprise Mystery Box, each designed to highlight some of ALDI’s most popular products. The catch is that they’re only available while supplies last, which adds to the excitement and makes it feel a bit like winning a grocery lottery. It’s a creative way for ALDI to introduce customers to new and best-loved items while adding a little thrill to an ordinary week of shopping.


5.  Hmmm...


Have a wonderful weekend and very happy Father's Day!  Wishing all the dads, grandpas, and father figures a very Happy Father’s Day filled with love, laughter, and time well spent with the people who appreciate them most.  See you back next week!

In case you missed it this week on the blog:

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Bringing the Red, White & Blue to My Kitchen Window

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 thinking about my red, white and blue decorations in our kitchen window!


Fourth of July is just around the corner, and our kitchen window is all decked out and ready to celebrate! I always look forward to pulling out the red, white, and blue decorations each summer. There’s something so cheerful and festive about adding patriotic touches throughout the house, and the kitchen window is one of my favorite spots to decorate. From stars and stripes to vintage-inspired accents, I love filling this space with pieces that capture the spirit of Independence Day. The bright colors make me smile every time I walk into the kitchen and help create a fun, welcoming space for the season.

Every layer of the three-tier stand is decked out!




Hobby Lobby was my source for all the little Uncle Sam figurines.  I've had them for years and love scattering them all around the display.



The picture in the center is a simple reminder that our freedom is possible because of the brave men and women who have served and protected our country. Their sacrifice and dedication are something worth remembering and honoring, especially as we celebrate Independence Day.


I always enjoy creating seasonal displays in this little corner of our kitchen, and this patriotic setup may be one of my favorites. The bright colors, meaningful reminders, and festive touches make it a fun way to celebrate the season and reflect on the blessings of living in this great country. Now we're ready for all the Fourth of July festivities!
 

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

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop - June 17, 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.
  1. Penny – PENNY’S PASSION | FB | IG | PINTEREST
  2. Sinea – DUCKS ‘N A ROW | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X
  3. Tammy – MY LIFE ABUNDANT | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X | YOUTUBE
  4. Denise – THIS IS MY EVERYBODY | FB | IG | PINTEREST | X | YOUTUBE

HIGHLIGHT LINKS 


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

Friday, June 12, 2026

Five on Friday - June 12, 2026

Wooza - this week flew by!  It has been an extremely busy one and I'm so looking forward to being able to take a breath this weekend.  Five o'clock can't get here soon enough!  Let's jump right in to my five for today ~

1.   Sweet Magnolias Season 5
My weekend plans definitely include some binge-watching because Netflix just released the entire new season of Sweet Magnolias! I’ve been looking forward to catching up with Maddie, Helen, and Dana Sue and seeing what new adventures, challenges, and small-town drama await them in Serenity. One of the things I love most about this series is the strong friendship between the three women and how they always support each other through life's ups and downs. The previews hint at plenty of surprises this season, including a wedding storyline, which has me especially excited. If the past seasons are any indication, there will be plenty of heartwarming moments, a little romance, and a few unexpected twists along the way. I have a feeling I'll be spending more than a few hours on the couch this weekend watching "just one more episode!"

Mary Kay Andrews has a new book out just in time for your summer reading list.  Road Trip is promised to be a fun, heartwarming read filled with family drama, mystery, romance, and plenty of Irish charm. When two estranged sisters inherit a painting that could be worth millions—or could be a fake—they set off on a journey to Ireland to uncover its secrets. Along the way, they find themselves untangling long-buried family mysteries, revisiting their roots, and navigating a relationship that has been strained for years. With picturesque Irish villages, colorful characters, a touch of romance, and an intriguing treasure hunt at its center, this novel has all the ingredients of a classic Mary Kay Andrews summer read. It's an engaging story about family, forgiveness, and second chances that will have you dreaming of an Irish adventure of your own.


There's nothing better than an easy, comfortable dress for summer, and this one checks all the boxes! The relaxed fit makes it perfect for staying cool on warm days, while the soft, stretchy fabric keeps it incredibly comfortable to wear. Even better, it's wrinkle-resistant, making it a great option for travel or busy days on the go. It comes in a wide variety of colors, so there's something for everyone. When the temperatures dip in the evening, it pairs perfectly with a denim jacket. I chose the black version, but after seeing how much I love it, I have a feeling I'll be adding a few more colors to my closet soon!


4.  Bonine
If you've been around here for a while, you've probably heard me sing the praises of Bonine before, but with summer travel season in full swing, it's worth mentioning again! Whether you're heading out on a road trip, setting sail on a cruise, or spending a day at an amusement park, Bonine is one of those products I never travel without. A few years ago, I started experiencing motion sickness whenever I read in the car or rode certain amusement park rides. After a friend recommended Bonine, I decided to give it a try, and I've been a fan ever since. For me, it works incredibly well, lasts for a full 24 hours, and best of all, it doesn't leave me feeling drowsy. If you or someone in your family struggles with car sickness, seasickness, or motion sickness of any kind, it's definitely something worth keeping on hand for your summer adventures.


5.  Cheers!
Have a great weekend!  We have some fun things planned and hopefully will also be catching up on rest.  Whatever you're doing, I hope you have a wonderful time.  See you next week!

In case you missed it this week on the blog: