Five on Friday - September 11, 2026

Happy Friday, friends. Before we jump into this week’s Five on Friday, I couldn’t let today pass without taking a moment to remember September 11, 2001. It’s hard to believe 25 years have passed since a day that changed our country—and so many lives—forever. Today we remember those who lost their lives, the families who still carry that loss, and the first responders and everyday heroes who showed incredible courage in the face of unimaginable tragedy. May we never forget. 

And with a grateful heart for the ordinary moments we’re blessed to have, let’s move into this week’s Five on Friday.

1.  The Pirate Queen by Ariel Lawhon

Ariel Lawhon’s newest novel, The Pirate Queen, is out this week, and this one is especially exciting for me because I’m seeing her at an author event tonight! She's the author of The Frozen River and that is on of my favorites. This book is inspired by the legendary Irish pirate queen Grace O’Malley and is filled with history, adventure, power, and a fiercely determined woman at the center of it all. Historical fiction fans will definitely want to put this one on their radar. I always love hearing an author talk about the story behind the story, so I’m especially excited to hear Ariel share more about this book tonight—and, of course, add a signed copy to my bookshelf!

Available HERE

2.  Practical Magic 2

Calling all Practical Magic fans—the Owens sisters are back! Nearly 30 years after the original became a cult favorite, Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman are returning as Sally and Gillian Owens in Practical Magic 2. This time, the family’s magical legacy continues with a new generation, while Sally and Gillian once again find themselves dealing with the Owens family curse. Joey King and Maisie Williams join the cast, and Dianne Wiest and Stockard Channing are back too. If you loved the sisterhood, magic, and, of course, those famous midnight margaritas from the first movie, this one needs to be on your list. Practical Magic 2 hits U.S. theaters today, September 11!

3.  Oreo Apple Pie A La Mode Cookies

Well, OREO certainly knows how to get us ready for fall!  The new limited-edition Apple Pie à la Mode OREO cookies are hitting shelves, and they sound like fall wrapped up in a cookie. Think apple pie flavor with that creamy à la mode twist—all without having to bake a thing! I haven’t tried these yet, but you know I’ll be keeping my eyes open for a package. If you spot them before I do, grab a pack and let me know if they’re worth adding to the fall snack rotation!

4.  Dryer Balls

I’ve been using wool dryer balls for years, and mine have finally reached the point where it’s time for a fresh set! If you haven’t made the switch from dryer sheets yet, I’m a big fan. They help separate the clothes as they tumble, allowing the warm air to circulate better and helping laundry dry more efficiently. They’re reusable, help soften clothes, and can cut down on wrinkles and static—all without having to toss a dryer sheet in with every load. Mine have definitely earned their retirement after countless loads of laundry, so a brand-new set is headed to my laundry room!

Available HERE

5.  Hmmm...

And that’s a wrap on this week’s Five on Friday! Tonight I’m heading to the Ariel Lawhon author event, which I’m really excited about, and then I’m looking forward to settling into the weekend. I hope you have something fun planned—or maybe absolutely nothing planned at all! Either way, I hope your weekend is filled with a little relaxation, lots of laughter, and time with the people you love. Thanks so much for stopping by today. Have a wonderful weekend and I’ll see you back here next week!

Five on Friday - September 4, 2026

Hey Hey - Happy Friday!  I'm so excited to be headed into a holiday weekend.  My to-do list is long, and I'm hoping three days are enough to at least make a dent in it.  First things first - here's my Five on Friday post for this week ~

1.  Leanne - Season 2

Season 2 of Netflix's Leanne dropped on July 31, and Eric and I have already watched the entire season! We flew through the episodes because this show just makes us laugh. Starring the hilarious Leanne Morgan, the series follows a Southern woman who suddenly finds herself starting over after her husband leaves her—and, of course, there are plenty of funny moments along the way. The whole cast is fantastic, and every character brings their own special kind of crazy to the mix. If you're looking for something light, funny, and easy to watch, definitely give Leanne a try. Now Eric and I are just over here impatiently waiting for another season!

2.  I've Got a New Complaint by Laurie Notaro

This book came out this week and I've anxious to crack it open.   I have a feeling some of her writing will be about things I can relate to...

Laurie Notaro can time travel. The portal is Scottsdale, Arizona. Once inside her elderly parents’ home, she’s a child again―who’s two years away from collecting Social Security. Caught between generations, Laurie is young enough to be thrust into the role of caregiver yet old enough to be grappling with her own creaking bones and analog life skills. It’s an awkward age.

Navigating it is just a matter of winging it. She runs rampant through Italy with her American driving skills. Infuriating office politics leave her little choice but revenge and some hexes. Laurie also confronts a high school bully at a reunion, considers an elaborate funeral at a puppet theater, and fancies an ideal retirement plan involving bank robbery. As for sex at sixty, honestly, it’s a challenge. The parts are a little rusty (at least they sound that way).

Regardless of indignity or mishap, the #1 New York Times bestselling author finds agency with the sharp wit of a woman who refuses to go gently into that good night.

Available HERE

3.  Fabric Shaver

Even though the temperatures might not be saying fall just yet, we all know sweater weather will be here before we know it! I’m already thinking about pulling out my favorite sweaters, and I know a few of them are going to need a little TLC after last season. Enter this handy fabric shaver! It quickly takes care of all that annoying pilling that can make a favorite sweater look old and tired. A few swipes and those little fuzz balls are swooshed away, leaving your sweaters looking fresh and practically brand new again. Such an easy and inexpensive way to give your fall wardrobe a little refresh without buying anything new!

Available HERE

4.  Taco Bell Churro Ice Cream Taco

Okay, Taco Bell has my attention with this one! They teamed up with Salt & Straw to introduce a brand-new Churro Ice Cream Taco, and it sounds like the perfect combination of two of my favorite things—churros and ice cream! The $3.99 treat has creamy churro-flavored ice cream tucked inside a crispy waffle cone shell and is finished with puffed rice and a dark chocolate-flavored coating. It rolled out nationwide on September 1 and is only available for a limited time while supplies last. I haven't tried one yet, but I have a feeling a Taco Bell run may be happening very soon!

5.  Yep...

And just like that, another Five on Friday is in the books! I hope you found a little something today that made you smile—or maybe even something you need to add to your shopping cart. Wishing you a wonderful weekend filled with plenty of fun, a little relaxation, and time spent doing the things you love. Enjoy every minute, and I’ll see you back here next week!

Five on Friday - August 28, 2026

Hello and welcome to Five on Friday!  I'm coming to you from our vacation spot in Orange Beach today. We're down here with our son and daughter-in-law for just few days - but we're making them count!  Let me get straight to my five for today so I can get back to focusing on the waves and looking for dolphins ~

1.  Big Little Truths by Liane Moriarty

Calling all Big Little Lies fans! Liane Moriarty is taking us back to Pirriwee in her brand-new book, Big Little Truths. Ten years have passed, and Madeline, Celeste, Jane, Renata and Bonnie are now navigating life with teenagers—which, of course, brings an entirely new level of drama! When a threatening package arrives at the high school and a mysterious stranger starts hanging around, old secrets and new problems begin bubbling to the surface. This highly anticipated sequel was released August 25 and is also a Reese’s Book Club pick. I loved Big Little Lies, so you better believe this one went straight onto my TBR list!

Available HERE

2.  Palazzo Pants

I was on the hunt for a comfortable, lightweight pair of pants to travel in this week, and I think I found the perfect pair! These plaid pants checked all the boxes for me—they’re lightweight, super comfortable, and cute enough that I still felt pulled together while traveling. And here’s the best part: after a full day of sitting, walking through airports, and being on the go, they were still practically wrinkle-free! That alone makes them a travel-day winner in my book. I love finding pieces that feel as comfortable as pajamas but look like you actually put some effort into your outfit, and these definitely fit the bill. If you have a trip coming up—or just love an easy, comfortable pair of pants for everyday wear—these are absolutely worth checking out!

Available HERE

3. Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte

Is it really fall if you haven’t had your first Pumpkin Spice Latte?  Starbucks officially brought back the beloved PSL this week, and suddenly I’m ready for cozy sweaters, crisp mornings, colorful leaves and all things pumpkin! Never mind that the temperatures outside may still be screaming summer—one sip of pumpkin spice and I’m mentally decorating the porch with mums and pumpkins. If you’ve been counting down the days, your wait is officially over. Grab your favorite fall drink and consider pumpkin spice season officially OPEN!

4.  Silicone Makeup Brush Holder

I had a minor panic moment while packing for our trip this week when I couldn’t find my silicone makeup brush holder. Thankfully, after a little frantic searching, I found mine—crisis averted!  I seriously love this little thing and never want to travel without it. It keeps all my makeup brushes together, protects the bristles from getting smashed in my makeup bag, and, most importantly, keeps everything clean and organized. The silicone material is soft, flexible and easy to wipe clean, making it perfect for tossing right into your suitcase or carry-on. It’s one of those inexpensive little Amazon finds that you don’t realize how much you need until you have one—and then you wonder how you ever traveled without it. If you have a trip coming up, do yourself a favor and add one to your travel essentials. Trust me, your makeup brushes will thank you!

Available HERE

5.  Ever been there???

And with that, I’m going to get back to vacation mode! We have dinner reservations tonight at a place I’ve been excited to try, and tomorrow we’re heading out on a dolphin cruise—which I can’t wait for! In between those plans, you’ll find me doing a whole lot of relaxing, reading, soaking up the sunshine and listening to the waves roll in. Honestly, that sounds like the perfect way to spend a few days! Hope you have a wonderful weekend filled with a little fun and plenty of time to relax. See you back here next week!

Five on Friday - August 21, 2026

 Happy Friday, friends! We made it to the end of another week, and you know what that means—it’s time for another Five on Friday! I’ve rounded up five things that caught my attention this week, including a little entertainment, something to add to your reading list, and a few fun finds you might want to add to your cart. So grab your coffee, get comfy, and let’s jump right into this week’s five!

1.  The English Bookstore in Bologna

Boo Walker’s newest book, The English Bookstore in Bologna, hit the shelves this week, and it immediately earned a spot on my TBR list! The title alone caught my attention—because really, how can you resist a story centered around a bookstore in beautiful Bologna, Italy? It sounds like the perfect mix of books, friendship, fresh starts, and a gorgeous Italian setting. And here’s an added bonus: it’s currently included with Kindle Unlimited, so if you’re a subscriber, you can add it to your reading list without spending anything extra. I have a feeling this one might not sit on my TBR list for very long!

Against the sunlit backdrop of Italy, five expats discover each other—and rediscover themselves—in a charmingly funny and poignant novel by the author of An Unfinished Story and A Spanish Sunrise.

Tucked away on a cobblestone street in enchanting Bologna, Italy, is the only English bookstore in the city. It’s owned by prickly Sandy Cooke, who keeps love, and even romantic fiction, at a distance. Her employee, timid and hopelessly optimistic Moira, dreams of transforming the struggling shop into a vibrant community hub. Against the odds, one Bolognese summer, it becomes a haven for fellow expats at their own crossroads.

Bianca is a psychotherapist escaping both a breakdown and withering reviews of her new self-help book. On her heels is her father, George, wrestling with retirement—and regrets. He’s had a few, but the light of his life has always been his daughter. Then there’s Harold, a young and awkward barista from Denver recovering from his first belly-flopping high dive into love. Maybe it’s time for reinvention.

At the only English bookstore in Bologna, paths converge for five damaged souls who discover that healing doesn’t require much—just honest connection and an open heart.

Available HERE

2.  Tony

If you’re looking for a new movie to check out this weekend, Tony hits theaters this week. The film takes us back to the younger years of Anthony Bourdain, long before he became the famous chef, author, and television personality we all knew. Starring Dominic Sessa as Bourdain and Antonio Banderas, the movie gives us a glimpse into an important summer in his life and the experiences that helped shape his future. I think this one sounds so interesting!

3.  Cordless Table Lamp

I’m loving the look of these cordless rechargeable table lamps that are so popular right now, and I spotted one on Amazon that’s on sale! I love that you can put these little lamps practically anywhere without having to worry about hiding an ugly cord or finding an outlet. They’re perfect for a kitchen counter, bookshelf, dining table, nightstand, or even outside on the patio for a little extra glow in the evening. Many of the rechargeable styles also have touch controls and adjustable brightness, making it easy to create just the right amount of cozy light. Functional, cute and on sale—this is one of those little home finds that can make a big difference!

Available HERE

4.  Mint Crunchy Cookie M&Ms

There's a new treat exclusively at Walmart - Mint Crunchy Cookie M&M’s! If you’re a fan of that classic chocolate-and-mint combination, these sound like a must-try. They have a crunchy cookie center surrounded by minty chocolate and that familiar colorful M&M’s candy shell. I’m thinking they would be perfect for an afternoon treat, movie night, or even tucked away for when you need a little something sweet. If mint chocolate is your thing, keep an eye out for these on your next Walmart run!

5.  Hmmm...

Have a wonderful weekend, friends! Ours is going to be all about golf! The BMW Championship is right here in St. Louis, and I’m so excited to spend the weekend soaking up all the action. You’ll find me somewhere around the course, hopefully catching some great golf and enjoying the excitement of having such a big event in our hometown. It should be a fun weekend, and I can’t wait to take it all in. Hope your weekend is filled with a little fun and something you love, too. See you back here next week!

Five on Friday - August 14, 2026

Happy Friday, friends! We made it to the end of another week, so let’s jump right into this week’s Five on Friday. I’ve got a fun mix of things to share with you today, so grab your coffee and let’s get to my five!

1.  SIX:  The Musical Live!

SIX:  The Musical Live! is hitting the big screen today and it's going straight on my watch list!  If you're not familiar with this musical, it's the story of Henry VIII's six wives.  The smash-hit musical puts a fun, modern spin on their history and tells their side of the story.  It's full of catchy pop songs, fabulous costumes and tons of girl-power energy.  I was lucky enough to see the play on Broadway during my last trip to New York and am excited to see it on the big screen.

2.  What to Cook When You Don't Feel Like Cooking:  Make It Fast

That dreaded daily question: What in the world am I going to make for dinner? We’ve all been there! This brand-new cookbook just hit the shelves this week, and it might be the answer to that question over and over again. Packed with fresh ideas and plenty of inspiration, it could make deciding what’s for dinner a whole lot easier!

Caroline Chambers famously doesn’t feel like cooking―and she’s built a whole brand on that premise. Her superpowers are eliminating unnecessary steps; minimizing dirty dishes; and making dinnertime as simple, stress-free, and fun as possible. While plenty of obstacles stand between you and a delicious meal, being short on time is probably the biggest one.
This exciting follow-up cookbook is once again organized into three time-based chapters. You’ll find recipes for 100 dinners, all of which are complete meals and can be made with no more than 30 minutes hands-on time in the kitchen―and yes, that includes chopping, marinating, and all other prep! Delicious meals include:

Flank Steak with Elote Salsa
Fish and Veggie Curry
Rotisserie-ish Chicken with Schmaltzy Lemon Dressing
Smoky Black Beans
Fried Rice

Every quick and easy recipe features Caro’s signature swaps, riffs, tips, and shortcuts to empower you to make these recipes work for you―not the other way around! You’ll also find special treasures throughout the book, including anchor recipes you can spin into five different dishes so you can DIY your favorites.

Plus, helpful back-of-book indexes allow you to search by both ingredient―useful when, say, you’ve got ground meat in the freezer―and occasion or mood―like when you cannot be bothered to chop a single thing. Even on the nights when you think there’s no way, no how, What to Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking: Make It Fast will help you get a full, flavorful meal on the table in basically no time.

Available HERE

3.  Teeth Whitening Strips

I restocked one of my tried-and-true favorites this week—whitening strips! I love having these on hand whenever my smile needs a little refresh. They’re such an easy way to brighten things up at home without adding another appointment to the calendar. If you’ve been thinking your smile could use a little boost, these whitening strips might be worth adding to your cart!

Available HERE

4.  Mosquito Coils

I’m always looking for ways to keep mosquitoes from ruining our time outside, and these KING Citronella Coils caught my eye! They’re a favorite in Hawaii and are made with citronella, a plant-based oil traditionally used outdoors. Each coil burns slowly for up to eight hours, making them perfect for evenings on the patio, backyard BBQs, camping trips, or even taking along to the beach. I also love that they come in both 10-coil and 60-coil packs with reusable metal stands, so you can choose the size that works best for you. If mosquitoes love you as much as they love me, these might be worth having on hand for your next outdoor adventure! 

Available HERE

5.  Oh no...

Have a great weekend, friends! We’re kicking ours off with our church small group tonight, followed by dinner with friends tomorrow evening. Other than that, I plan on taking it easy and staying inside where it’s nice and cool because it’s going to be a HOT one! I'm reading The Divorce by Freida McFadden and can hardly put it down. Whatever you have planned, I hope your weekend is filled with a little fun, a little relaxation, and plenty of air conditioning! Stay cool, and I’ll see you back here next week!

Five on Friday - August 7, 2026

We've made it to Friday!  Let's hear it for the weekend!  I'm kicking it off by sharing by Five on Friday ~

1.   The Unknown by Riley Sager

If you love a good thriller, add The Unknown by Riley Sager to your TBR list! This brand-new release sounds like the kind of book that will have you saying, “just one more chapter” until suddenly it’s way past your bedtime. Riley Sager is known for delivering plenty of suspense, twists and turns, and I have a feeling this one will be no exception. It might just be the perfect book to toss in your beach bag this summer!

Struggling actress Marin Keane is shocked when she lands a role in a major motion picture about the unsolved mystery of New Avalon, an island on sprawling Lake Faraday in Vermont. She’s even more surprised when she learns that the role requires a weeklong research trip to that very spot.

Because New Avalon isn’t your ordinary island. A century ago, it was a commune for spiritual mediums—until they all vanished in 1926. The only trace of them was five dresses hanging from the branches of an old oak tree in the middle of the island, one for each missing woman. Some locals say they simply left. Others think they were murdered. But the prevailing opinion, thanks to a diary left behind by one of the vanished, a young woman named Daisy Rue, is that a séance gone wrong conjured something supernatural that took them all one by one.

Not long after arriving, Marin and her castmates, including legendary actress Violet Wright and white-hot director Ronan Peters, begin to realize all is not right with New Avalon. They hear strange noises in the night and notice mysterious symbols left behind by the island's previous occupants. And after a sudden health emergency leaves Marin, Ronan, and the other actors stranded on the island, the disappearances begin again.

Is it the work of someone trying to derail the movie? Or is the island’s alleged supernatural past catching up with the present? As fear and suspicion mount, Marin turns to Daisy’s diary, hoping it holds the key to figuring out what really happened to the women of New Avalon—and how to keep the island’s terrible history from repeating itself.

Available HERE

2.  Ted Lasso - Season 4

Ted Lasso is back! After a three-year break, Season 4 premiered this week on Apple TV, and I’m so excited to have the gang back together. This season has 10 episodes, with a new one dropping every Wednesday through the finale on October 7. Ted returns to Richmond for a whole new challenge—coaching AFC Richmond’s newly formed second-division women’s soccer team, the Lady Greyhounds. And thankfully, plenty of our favorites are back, including Rebecca, Roy Kent, Keeley, Coach Beard, Higgins, Nate, Sam and Jamie Tartt. The new storyline introduces several new faces as Ted and his team take chances they never thought they would. If you’ve missed the humor, heart and feel-good moments that made this show so special, it looks like Season 4 is going to give us plenty more reasons to BELIEVE!

3.  Sunglass Case

I’ve been throwing my sunglasses in my purse all summer, and every time I do it I know I’m taking a chance! It’s only a matter of time before I pull them out and discover a big scratch right across the lens. I finally decided to get ahead of the problem and ordered these sunglass cases. They’re such a simple little thing, but they make a big difference! I love that they protect my glasses without taking up a ton of room in my purse, and now I don’t have to worry about my keys or everything else floating around in there scratching them up. They’re also great for keeping an extra pair of readers or sunglasses tucked in your car, beach bag or travel tote. If you’re guilty of tossing your glasses straight into your purse like I am, do yourself a favor and grab a few of these cases. Your sunglasses will thank you!

Available HERE

4.  Velvet Hangers

I added more of my favorite hangers to my closet this week, and there’s just something so satisfying about opening the door and seeing all the hangers match! It instantly makes the whole closet look neater and more organized. These hangers are slim, so they take up less space than bulky plastic ones, and I love that clothes stay put instead of constantly slipping onto the floor. They’re sturdy enough for everyday use while still giving your closet that clean, uniform look. If your closet could use a little refresh, swapping out a hodgepodge of hangers for a matching set is such an easy and affordable upgrade. Fair warning—you might love the look so much that you’ll want to replace every hanger in the house!

Available HERE

5.  Oh no!

And that wraps up my five for this week! We’ve got a fun weekend ahead, and I’m more than ready to close the laptop and get it started. I hope your weekend is filled with a little sunshine, plenty of relaxation and something that makes you smile. Thanks so much for stopping by today and spending a few minutes with me. Have a wonderful weekend, friends, and I’ll see you back here next week!

Five on Friday - July 24, 2026

Hello!  I'm so happy it's Friday!  I'm taking a little trip with my son, Ian, and we leave tomorrow.  After work will be filled with packing, but before moving into vacation mode let me share my Five on Friday for this week ~

1.  The Romance Revival by Christina Lauren

The Romance Revival came out this month and as soon as I saw the review that said it's perfect for fans of Emily Henry and Abby Jimenez I knew it was going on my TBR list!  I'm currently number 153 on the library waitlist, so I might buy this one if I want to read it anytime soon. 

Three years ago, scientist Emery Finch did something completely out of character: She got married. To Luca—the impossibly charming landscaper she met on one blistering night in Vegas who made her laugh, made her dance, made her feel.

But now, Emery is consumed by her top research, missing dinners, forgetting anniversaries, and promising herself Luca will understand once her cutting-edge discoveries come to light. Until the unthinkable happens: A tragic accident takes Luca from her.

Desperate not to lose him, Emery breaks every rule, using the classified technology she’s developed to bring him back to life. And Luca would probably thank her for it, if only he could remember her. Their first kiss, their Sunny Sundays at the beach, the life they built together...all of it is gone.

It may be a miracle of science, but for Emery it’s her one shot at a second chance. And this time, she won’t waste it—because true love is always worth reviving.

 

Available HERE

2.  Ransom Canyon - Season 2

Somehow I completely missed Season 1 of Ransom Canyon, but now that Season 2 has arrived, I'm thinking it's time to catch up! If you were a fan of the first season, you'll be happy to know that all eight new episodes dropped this week. With its blend of romance, family drama, and breathtaking Texas landscapes, I've heard it's the perfect weekend binge. If you love shows like Virgin River or Sweet Magnolias, this one sounds like it deserves a spot on your watch list.

3.  Stock Up Items

Amazon delivered a few of my tried-and-true travel essentials this week, and that can only mean one thing—we're getting ready for our trip to Durango, Colorado! One adventure I'm especially excited about is riding the famous Silverton train. Since winding mountain roads and scenic train rides can sometimes trigger my motion sickness, you can bet a box of Bonine is already packed. I also made sure to stock up on mosquito repellent bracelets and hydration powder packets. They're the little things that are easy to overlook, but they make a big difference when it comes to feeling your best. The more prepared I am, the more I can relax, soak in the beautiful scenery, and make the most of every minute of the trip!

Available HERE

Available HERE

Available HERE

4.  Baggy Barrel Jeans in Floral Print

I added a new pair of pants to my wardrobe this week, and now I'm anxiously waiting for cooler temperatures so I can wear them! I couldn't resist the fun print—they're a little different from my usual style and will be a great way to add some personality to a simple top. Cooler summer nights and Fall can't get here soon enough because I have a feeling these are going to be on repeat all season long!

Available HERE

5.  Hmmm...

Have a wonderful weekend! I've got some packing to do and then I'm heading out for five fun-filled days with Ian. We'll be meeting up with family for a vacation that's sure to be packed with laughter, adventures, and lots of special memories. I can't wait to spend this time together! I'll be back next week so until then, have a great weekend!

Five on Friday - July 10, 2026

 Hey there!  Welcome to my Five on Friday post.  Let's jump right in ~

1.  Five Star Weekend

Elin Hilderbrand’s bestselling novel The Five-Star Weekend has officially made its way to the small screen! I loved the book, so I’ve been anxiously waiting for this one to arrive. The new Peacock miniseries stars Jennifer Garner, and all eight episodes are available to stream right now. I have a feeling a serious binge-watch session is in my very near future! Who else read the book and is excited to see the story come to life?

2.  Moana

If you’re looking for a fun way to beat the heat and stay cool this weekend, you might want to head to the movie theater to see Moana! The beloved Disney story is coming to life in a whole new way on the big screen, making it a fun option for a summer outing. Grab some popcorn, settle into those comfy theater seats, and enjoy a couple of hours in the air conditioning!

3.  New Dress

A few years ago, I bought this dress on Amazon, and after countless wearings and trips through the washing machine, it has held up so well! It’s still one of those dresses I find myself reaching for again and again. So, this week I decided it was finally time to add another color to my closet!  I love finding clothes that are cute, comfortable, and easy to care for, and this dress checks all those boxes. You can toss it in the washing machine, and it comes out looking great time after time. No special care or fuss required! When I find something I love that has stood the test of time, buying it in another color just makes sense, right?

Available HERE

4.  Earring Find

Check out these adorable earrings! I was looking for the perfect pair to wear with a sundress I recently bought when I stumbled across these beauties. They have real dried flowers inside, and I think they are just so pretty and unique!  They would also make such a sweet birthday gift. You can choose a pair for any month of the year, giving the gift a little extra personalization and thoughtfulness. I love finding gifts that feel special without being overly complicated, and these definitely fit the bill. They’re cute enough that you might want to grab a pair for yourself while you’re at it!

Available HERE

5.  Hmmm...

Have a wonderful weekend!  We have a lot of fun things on the agenda.  Hope you do too.  See you next week!

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.

Available HERE

3.  Cold Foam Frother

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!

Available HERE

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!

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!"

2.  Road Trip:  A Novel by Mary Kay Andrews

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.

Available HERE

3.  Summer Dress

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!

Available HERE

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.

Available HERE

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:

Wonderful Wednesday Blog Hop

Let's Go To Belgium - Day 5 in Paris!