Penny's Passion: Five on Friday
Showing posts with label Five on Friday. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Five on Friday. Show all posts

Friday, April 17, 2026

Five on Friday - April 18, 2025

 Hello!  Man, who's ready for a weekend?!?  It's been a whirlwind of a wind and I'm so excited to have a couple days to regroup over here.  Let's kick things off with Five on Friday ~

1.  Through Mom's Eyes by Sheinelle Jones
Sheinelle Jones, one of the familiar and beloved faces from the Today Show, has written a book—and I am so excited to get my hands on it! I’ve always appreciated her warmth, authenticity, and the way she connects with people on screen, so I have a feeling her writing will be just as engaging. I can’t wait to dive in, hear more of her story, and see what insights and inspiration she shares in this new chapter.
From the beloved Today show host Sheinelle Jones comes an inspiring collection of heartfelt life-lessons from hard working moms who raised some of our favorite celebrities.

When Sheinelle Jones launched “Through Mom’s Eyes,” a recurring Today show segment interviewing celebrities’ mothers about raising successful kids, she had an ulterior motive—she wanted to bring all their wisdom to bear on raising her own three children. So she asked Lin-Manuel Miranda’s mom about staying present with kids while balancing a demanding career, talked with Lady Gaga’s mom about how to recognize bullying, and got tips from Steph Curry’s mom on making sure even future NBA royalty does his chores. She has since interviewed dozens of remarkable women and gathered a candid, warm, and insightful collection of valuable lessons about life, love, and parenthood.

Now in her first book, Through Mom’s Eyes, Sheinelle is ready to share even more of those life-changing secrets with the world. Combining insights from celebrity mothers with her own journey through modern parenting, Sheinelle reveals how to make it through the hard parts of motherhood and still tap into the joys of it with empathy, generosity, and solidarity. Through Mom’s Eyes is a beautiful celebration of those who are the guiding light for their loved ones—mothers.

2.  Normal
Looking to see a movie this weekend?  Normal, starring Bob Odenkirk, opens in theaters today and it looks like a movie Eric and I would both enjoy.  Heres the summary ~
Normal is a neo-Western thriller that stars Bob Odenkirk as Ulysses, an unassuming substitute sheriff assigned to the quiet Midwestern town of Normal. Seeking a temporary escape from personal and professional turmoil, Ulysses instead finds himself drawn into a crisis when a botched bank robbery exposes a dangerous secret beneath the town's calm exterior. As tensions escalate (and boy, do they escalate), he is forced to confront his troubled past and the true nature of the community he has been tasked with protecting.
With the warmer weather finally here, we got our bird bath up and running again last weekend. We’ve been using this solar-powered model for years now, and it’s been such a great addition to our yard. I originally chose it after reading that it could help attract hummingbirds—and it must be true, because we’ve seen more of them visit each year! It’s incredibly easy to set up and comes with several spray options, so you can switch up the look and flow depending on what you like.

Are your windows due for a little spring cleaning? I recently found this handy squeegee, and it made the whole process so much easier! It features a built-in spray bottle, so you can keep your cleaning solution right on hand—no extra supplies needed. Just spray and swipe for a streak-free shine. It’s not only perfect for windows, but also works great on shower doors, car windows, and mirrors.

5.  Great idea...


Hope your weekend is wonderful!  We have a pretty low-key weekend ahead and I'm perfectly fine with that.  We still have some clean up to do from the shower we hosted last weekend.  You can see the highlights from the shower HERE.  I have book club on Monday night and need to finish the book, so there will be a lot of reading time happening.  See you next week!

Friday, April 10, 2026

Five on Friday - April 10, 2026

Hello!  I'm going to get right to it today because we are knee deep in getting ready to host a bridal shower at our house tomorrow ~

King Arthur Baking Company's Book of Pizza came out this week and I can't wait to get my hands on a copy.  We did a little pizza making back in my sourdough days, but haven't made a homemade pizza in a while.  Maybe with the help of this cookbook we will jump back in.
The bakers at King Arthur Baking Company researched, tested—and tasted!—hundreds of pizzas and cooking methods to develop the most comprehensive book yet dedicated to the art and science of making pizza at home. Organized around twelve distinct styles—New York, New Haven, Chicago Tavern, Grandma, Neapolitan, and more—King Arthur Baking Company’s The Book of Pizza goes deep on every element of a great pie, from dough and sauce to the cheese and the bake.

Comprehensive yet accessible, the book is packed with innovative topping suggestions to match each crust style (don’t sleep on the Prosciutto and Hot Honey Neapolitan pie). But it also empowers bakers to mix and match sauces and toppings, allowing them to customize pizzas exactly to their liking. Rounding out the pizza recipes are four quintessential pizza night salads and an entire chapter of desserts, including Spumoni Semifreddo, an array of Italian-inspired cookies, and simple cakes, like Olive Oil Cake with Chocolate Ganache, to end pizza night with a bang.
I'm a huge fan of Joan Malone's English Pear and Freesia scent.  What I'm not a huge fan of is the cost!  I want down the rabbit hole on Amazon looking for alternatives and found this fragrance oil.  In a smell test, I'm not sure you could tell the difference!  And the price is a fraction of the cost. I dropped some on a tissue and put in under the seat of our car.  Man, does our car smell great!  I'm going to hide a tissue that has a few drops on it in our front door wreath so guests will be welcomed with this wonderful fragrance.  If I get really ambitious, I'll add it to some candles.  You could also use it for pet shampoos, bath bombs or room diffusers.  So many uses!

3.  Hacks Season 5
The final season of this award-winning Max comedy just dropped. We’re still a season behind, but it’s definitely on my watch list. Jean Smart is absolutely hilarious and plays Deborah Vance perfectly. If you haven’t seen it, it’s set in Las Vegas and follows a legendary stand-up comic trying to stay relevant in an ever-changing entertainment world.


4.  Dippin' Dots
The classic Dippin' Dots is starting to show up in grocery store freezers, which feels so nostalgic and fun. It used to be something you could only get at amusement parks or special events, so seeing it in stores is kind of exciting. I’m thinking it would be such a cute treat for summer nights or even a fun addition to a movie night at home.  


5.  Try it...


Have a lovely weekend!  I can't wait to show to all the things from the shower!  See you next week.

Friday, April 3, 2026

Five on Friday - April 3, 2026

Happy Easter weekend!  We have a holiday today and I'm sure excited to have a long weekend.  Our church does this amazing cross walk on Good Friday.  I'm volunteering so my day is busy, but full of goodness.  Before I head out to that, let me share my Five on Friday ~

1.  The Drama
The Drama is definitely on my must-see list! The wedding storyline immediately pulled me in, and I’m really hoping we get a chance to see it soon. Critics are already saying it could be one of the most talked-about films of 2026.
Led by Robert Pattinson and Zendaya, and directed by Kristoffer Borgli, The Drama leans into the kind of dark, discomforting humor that audiences love. The film centers on an engaged couple in the days leading up to their wedding, when a shocking revelation begins to unravel their relationship. As tensions escalate, what starts as a love story spirals into — you guessed it — lots of drama. Early reviews suggest audiences should be prepared for a visceral experience. Equal parts hilarious and haunting, the film invites nervous laughter as often as it does discomfort, leaving viewers debating its meaning long after the credits roll.

2.  Beauty Brands Spray Sale
If you’ve been waiting to stock up on a good hairspray, the Beauty Brands sale is such a great time to do it. They’ve marked down a wide variety of favorites—from flexible, brushable formulas to strong-hold sprays that actually keep everything in place without feeling crunchy.  Whether you’re needing something lightweight for everyday styling or a little extra hold for special occasions, it’s definitely worth taking a look while everything is discounted.


I’m in the middle of a full porch refresh for spring, and I can’t wait to share the finished look with you! I ended up carrying the makeover beyond just the porch and gave our mailbox a little seasonal update too with this new cover. It adds the perfect pop of color and honestly just screams spring and summer the moment you see it.  I love keeping a cover on our mailbox year-round—it’s such an easy way to add a little personality outside. The magnetic strips hold everything securely in place, even on windy days, and installation couldn’t be simpler. Plus, they’re so easy to swap out with the seasons, which makes decorating feel fun and effortless.

4.  Strawberry Angel Food Cake Blizzard Treat
Dairy Queen is introducing its new flavor of Blizzard - Strawberry Angel Food Cake!  The DQ website describes it perfectly - "This delightful treat combines light and fluffy angel food cake pieces with real strawberries, all blended to Blizzard perfection with DQ's world-famous soft serve."  YUM!!  Might be swinging through a Dairy Queen this weekend to give one of these a try.  


5.  Truth...


Wishing you a beautiful and joy-filled Easter!  May your day be filled with hope, renewal, and time spent with the people you love most. I hope your celebrations are full of meaningful moments, sweet traditions, and maybe even a little chocolate along the way. Happy Easter! See you next week!

Friday, March 27, 2026

Five on Friday - March 27, 2026

Happy Friday!  Who's ready for the weekend?!?  It has been a week over here and I'm so glad to have a little break to regroup as we head into Easter week.  Let's just right to the Five on Friday post ~

1.  The Night We Met by Abby Jimenez
Abby Jimenez's newest book was released this week and I can't wait to dive in!  This new book, The Night We Met, is the second in a series after Say You'll Remember Me.  Her books always make me laugh out loud, shed a few tears, and make me think about life choices.  Here's the summary ~
For Larissa, it came when choosing who to ride home with after a concert. That night, she had no idea she’d met the perfect man. She and Chris are great friends, co-parenting a slightly unhinged rescue Yorkie, sharing their favorite books, and judging bread (pumpernickel for the win!). For the first time amid all her side hustles to scrape by, things finally feel easy.

But she didn’t choose Chris to drive her home all those months ago—she went with his best friend, and he became her boyfriend. All Chris wants is for Larissa to be happy. Standing by on the sidelines is slowly killing him, but making a move would destroy someone else. How can something that feels so right be absolutely impossible?

Amazon’s Big Spring Sale started this week and runs through March 31. I’ve been checking in to see what deals are popping up, and there are some really great prices right now. I’m sharing a few of my favorite finds below ~


3.  Super Stuffed Pop-Tarts
Okay, fellow Pop-Tart lovers—have you seen this?! Hitting store shelves now are Super Stuffed Pop-Tarts! These new toaster pastries come in three flavors: Strawberry Blast, Molten Lava Cake, and Cinnamon Caramel. Each box includes five individually wrapped treats. Now I’m wondering…will I love them twice as much with all that extra filling?

I’ve been searching for a new dress to wear to a few events we have coming up this spring, and it was Amazon to the rescue! I love the eyelet fabric and the elbow-length sleeves. I went with the blue, but it comes in several other colors too. It’s machine washable, which means no extra trips to the dry cleaner. I can’t wait to wear it soon!


5.  Exercise plan...


Enjoy the weekend!  We will be watching lots of college basketball (even though my bracket is already a bust).  I’m heading out for a little shopping trip with a friend tomorrow, and I’m really looking forward to spending some time together. In between, I’m hoping to get our outdoor furniture cleaned up and ready for summer. We also put out our hummingbird feeders this week, so I’m crossing my fingers we spot a few visitors this weekend. See you next week!

Friday, March 20, 2026

Five on Friday - March 20, 2026

Happy Friday, friends! I always look forward to this little pause at the end of the week to share a handful of things I’ve been loving lately. From simple everyday finds to a few fun highlights, it’s a mix of the little things that have brought a smile to my face. I hope you’ll grab something cozy to drink and join me as I round up this week’s favorites!

1.  Project Hail Mary
Okay, I don’t usually gravitate toward sci-fi movies, but I’m a big Ryan Gosling fan—so Project Hail Mary has definitely made my must-watch list. It’s been getting fantastic reviews, too! Here’s a quick summary ~
Grace gradually recalls his past and the purpose of his mission: to travel to Tau Ceti, the only star unaffected by Astrophage, and discover a solution. Along the way, he encounters a rock-like alien named Rocky, who becomes his unexpected ally. Together, they work to stop the Astrophage threat, facing challenges that test their ingenuity, courage, and friendship. The story combines high-stakes science, humor, and emotional depth, emphasizing teamwork and problem-solving.
Are you a fan of Judy Blume’s books? If so, you’ll be excited to know that her new biography by Mark Oppenheimer just hit the shelves this week. It’s quite the read at 480 pages—clearly there’s plenty to share about her incredible life and career. Here’s a quick summary ~
To know the name Judy Blume is to know and love literature. Her influential novels turned classics—including Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret; Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing; Deenie; and Summer Sisters—touched the lives of tens of millions of readers. For more than fifty-five years her work has done something revolutionary: it rewired the world’s expectations of what literature for young people can be—frank, candid, earthy, and unafraid to show the messier sides of humanity. But little is known about the real woman behind the iconic persona, and the unlikely journey of her literary ascension, until now.

In Judy Blume, journalist, historian, and longtime Blume aficionado Mark Oppenheimer pens a beautiful, multidimensional portrait of the acclaimed author through extensive interviews with Blume herself, invaluable access to her papers and correspondence, and thoughtful analysis of Blume’s beloved novels, including early, unpublished works that shed light on the pathbreaking writer she would become. Oppenheimer goes deep, exploring Blume’s middle-class 1950s upbringing, complicated childhood, varied relationships and marriages, unabashed sexual experiences, bouts of heartache and loss, and enduring legacy as a champion of free speech and contemporary literature. Oppenheimer peels back the curtain to reveal the woman behind the literary empire in all her complex, multifaceted glory—a true gift for anyone who grew up reading and loving these extraordinary books.
3.  Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff Bar
One thing I’m loving this week is spotting all the fun new food finds hitting the shelves lately. It seems like everywhere you look there’s something new to try! From a high-protein twist on classic mac & cheese to fun snack aisle additions like buffalo-flavored pretzels and PB&J-inspired bites, brands are definitely getting creative. Something that caught my eye this week was the new Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff  Bar.  It's a chocolate bar filled with Biscoff and new crispy caramel candies. It’s always so fun to pick up something new on a grocery run… you never know what might become your next favorite!
I’ve completely fallen in love with Swedish dishcloths! They’re super absorbent—perfect for drying, cleaning, and even a little scrubbing. When they need freshening up, you can just toss them in the washing machine. I’m due for a new set, and this pattern immediately caught my eye. They’ll coordinate perfectly with my kitchen and might just make cleaning a bit more enjoyable!


5.  Definitely me...


Thanks so much for stopping by this week’s Five on Friday! I always love sharing these little bits of life with you. I hope you have a wonderful weekend ahead—whether it’s filled with fun plans or a little extra time to relax and recharge. Tonight I'm having dinner with a friend and we are going to dry run a mantlescape we want to do at an upcoming bridal shower.  Then we're meeting friends for lunch on Saturday at one of our favorite places - Crown Candy Kitchen.  And of course we'll be watching or monitoring the scores from all the NCAA basketball games!  Here’s to soaking up the small joys, trying something new, and making the most of these early spring days. See you back here next week!

Friday, March 13, 2026

Five on Friday - March 13, 2026

Hello!  Man, am I ready for the weekend to get here!  My son and I flew back home from vacation on Tuesday night and went back to work on Wednesday morning.  Since then, I've been on autopilot!  This weekend I'm hoping to get caught up on laundry and other things around the house!  Let's kick the weekend off with this week's Five on Friday ~

I’ve been seeing the trailers for Reminders of Him for quite a while now, so I’m excited that it’s finally making its way into theaters! Every time a preview popped up, it made me even more curious to see how the story would come to life on the big screen.  If the title sounds familiar, it may be because it’s based on the popular novel by Colleen Hoover. The book captured the attention of so many readers, and now fans have the chance to experience the emotional story in a whole new way. Whether you loved the novel or are just discovering it for the first time, it’s always fun to see a favorite story transition from the page to the screen.
After a perfect outing with her boyfriend, Kenna (Maika Monroe; The Hand that Rocks the Cradle, Longlegs) makes an unbearable mistake that sends her to prison. Seven years later, Kenna returns to her hometown in Wyoming, hoping to rebuild her life and earn the chance to reunite with her young daughter, Diem, whom she has never known. When Diem’s custodial grandparents adamantly refuse Kenna’s attempts to see her daughter, Kenna discovers unexpected compassion, and then something truer and deeper, with former NFL player and local bar owner Ledger (Tyriq Withers; HIM, I Know What You Did Last Summer). As their secret romance develops, so do the dangers for both of them, leading Kenna toward heartbreak and, ultimately, the hope for a second chance.

James Patterson teamed up with Viola Davis for his newest book release.  Judge Stone hit the stands on Tuesday and immediately went on my TBR list.  The reviews are great!  Here's the summary ~
The most respected citizen in Union Springs, Alabama (population 3,314), is Judge Mary Stone. She holds two responsibilities sacred: running her family farm and presiding over her courtroom. It's there she draws the most controversial case in the history of the South.

Criminally, it’s open-and-shut.

Ethically, there is no middle ground. Essentially, it’s a choice between life and death.

No judge can satisfy everyone. It would be dangerous to try. But Judge Stone is willing to fight to bring justice to the people and place she loves.
Pick up a set of these for the kids’ Easter baskets, birthday party favors, or just to have on hand for those moments when the kiddos say they’re bored! I’ve kept these at my house for when my niece and nephews come to visit, and they always get so excited to play with them. It’s a simple little activity that keeps them entertained and having fun for quite a while.

You know what’s right around the corner—St. Patrick’s Day! It’s the perfect time to bring out a little green and celebrate the fun of the season. One easy way to show your festive spirit is with these adorable shamrock earrings. They add just the right pop of holiday charm to any outfit, whether you’re heading to a party, meeting friends, or simply wanting to get in the St. Patrick’s Day mood. Cute, festive, and easy to wear, they’re a fun accessory that helps you celebrate the day in style!

5.  Prices...


Enjoy your weekend! We have a few fun things planned over the next couple of days. Tomorrow we’re heading out to pick up a set of china I found on Facebook Marketplace, which I’m really excited about. Then on Sunday we’ll be visiting a new church where our friends’ son will be preaching.

Somewhere in the middle of all that, I also need to buckle down and finish 170 wedding invitations I'm making for a wedding I’m helping with at the beginning of June! It’s definitely a full schedule, but all good and fun things.

Have a wonderful weekend, and I’ll see you back here next week! 

Friday, March 6, 2026

Five on Friday - March 6, 2026

Hello!  I'm coming to you today from my vacation with my son!  We are in Belgium exploring all the fun places.  I can't wait to share them with you when I get home.  Until then, please enjoy today's Five on Friday ~

1.  Rooster
Have you caught the trailers for Steve Carell’s new series, Rooster? It starts streaming on HBO on March 8. I’m really looking forward to it—feels like it’s been a while since I’ve had a genuinely funny show to dive into!


2.  Wait for Me by Amy Jo Burns
Jenna's newest book club book was released this week - Wait for Me by Amy Jo Burns.  It sounds pretty interesting ~
Young folk singer Elle Harlow reaches the height of her prowess in 1973, with two wildly beloved albums to her name and a hidden history of impossible heartbreak. When she sets foot on the famed Grand Ole Opry stage, a far cry from the mountain that raised her, Elle gives the biggest performance of her life. Then, to the dismay of shocked fans, her producer, and the man who still loves her, she vanishes.

Almost two decades later, eighteen-year-old Marijohn Shaw is spending her summer pumping gas, writing songs on her broken mandolin, and longing for a mother. Her father, Abe, has always sworn he was the last person to see Elle Harlow alive, but when a meteor strikes the woods of their sleepy Pennsylvania town and a piece of Elle’s past emerges from the wreckage, the truth of her disappearance sets fire to everything Marijohn believes about herself, her music, and her ability to love with abandon.

Wait for Me exalts the lush hills of Appalachia and the bright lights of Nashville as it reveals the legacy of Elle Harlow, the bold voice that defined her, the intimate betrayal that undid her, and the unexpected faith of another young woman determined to resurrect her.

3.  Little Debbie's Strawberry Delights
Spring is in the air, and Little Debbie is joining the celebration with a brand-new treat hitting store shelves: Strawberry Delights. These soft, delicious cookies are filled with a sweet strawberry-flavored filling that brings a bright taste of spring in every bite. Adding to the fun, each cookie features an adorable cutout smiley face—sure to make you smile right along with it.
 
Before heading out on vacation, I wanted to pick up a couple of pairs of comfortable pants to take along. I found exactly what I was looking for with these wide-leg yoga pants. One of my favorite things about them is that they come in several different lengths, so I was able to choose a pair that works with my shorter legs without dragging on the ground. They’re also available in a ton of colors, which makes them even more fun to shop for. Best of all, the fabric isn’t bulky, so they packed easily in my suitcase.

5.  Yep...


Okay, it's back to vacation for me!  Have a great weekend!

Friday, February 27, 2026

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!


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!


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!

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!

Friday, February 20, 2026

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!
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.

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!

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.

Friday, February 13, 2026

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! 

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!


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!