Penny's Passion: Music

Simply Sweet Home

Friday, September 18, 2020

Five on Friday - September 18, 2020

Happy Friday! Who's looking forward to the weekend? I've got both my hands raised over here! Let's get right to my five for today ~

1. The Speed of Now - Part 1
Keith Urban's new CD releases today and the songs he's dropped early are pretty darn good. I'm excited to hear the rest of the sure-to-be hits. Did you see him hosting the ACM Awards this week? He's so charming. This CD has 16 songs and is available HERE. Happy listening!

2. Hershey Vampire Kisses

Halloween is probably going to look a little different this year, but we can all celebrate Hershey's new Vampire Kisses. Bite down in one of these chocolate morsels and inside you'll find red vampire blood (which is really strawberry creme)! And the foil wrapper has little bats. How adorable is this! I'm going to Target for a bag because they will be too cute for my candy dish at work.

3. The Book of Two Ways: A Novel

One of my favorite authors has a new book coming out on Tuesday. Jodi Picoult's The Book of Two Ways: A Novel is summarized on Amazon like this:

Everything changes in a single moment for Dawn Edelstein. She’s on a plane when the flight attendant makes an announcement: Prepare for a crash landing. She braces herself as thoughts flash through her mind. The shocking thing is, the thoughts are not of her husband but of a man she last saw fifteen years ago: Wyatt Armstrong.

Dawn, miraculously, survives the crash, but so do all the doubts that have suddenly been raised. She has led a good life. Back in Boston, there is her husband, Brian, their beloved daughter, and her work as a death doula, in which she helps ease the transition between life and death for her clients.

But somewhere in Egypt is Wyatt Armstrong, who works as an archaeologist unearthing ancient burial sites, a career Dawn once studied for but was forced to abandon when life suddenly intervened. And now, when it seems that fate is offering her second chances, she is not as sure of the choice she once made.

After the crash landing, the airline ensures that the survivors are seen by a doctor, then offers transportation to wherever they want to go. The obvious destination is to fly home, but she could take another path: return to the archaeological site she left years before, reconnect with Wyatt and their unresolved history, and maybe even complete her research on The Book of Two Ways—the first known map of the afterlife.

As the story unfolds, Dawn’s two possible futures unspool side by side, as do the secrets and doubts long buried with them. Dawn must confront the questions she’s never truly asked: What does a life well lived look like? When we leave this earth, what do we leave behind? Do we make choices . . . or do our choices make us? And who would you be if you hadn’t turned out to be the person you are right now?

Does this sound like a great Autumn read!

4. Leopard Print Belt

With the temperatures cooling down, soon the long pants will be a staple in outfit selection. Why not add some pizzazz with this adorable leopard print belt! The price can't be beaten and it's getting great reviews on Amazon. Just what I need to spruce up my fall wardrobe. Do you need one too?

5. Once a mother, always a mother...

We are ending the week on a very high note - our nephew and his beautiful wife had their first baby yesterday! We've enjoyed seeing all the pictures and can't wait to meet him in person. With COVID it might be a while before that happens. We're also headed to my home town this weekend to celebrate my dad's 82nd birthday. Pop back in next week for the weekend rewind. Have a great one!

Linking up with:

Amanda at Meet At The Barre
Erika at Little Bit of Everything

Friday, April 5, 2019

Five on Friday - April 5, 2019

Happy Friday! It's a happy, happy day in St. Louis today because it's the home opener for our beloved Cardinals. Just love hearing the crack of the bat on opening day! Before that excitement gets underway, here's my five for today ~

1. Amidst the Chaos
Are you a Sara Bareilles fan? If so, today is a happy day for you! Sara's new CD, Amidst the Chaos, drops today. Ever since we saw the musical Waitress, my love for her has grown and I can't wait to hear this 12 song collection. Want a copy for yourself? Click HERE to check it out. Oh - and don't forget to check her out on Saturday Night Live this week.

2. Easter Egg Oreos
The folks over at the Oreo factory have been working overtime. They just got through their special Valentines cookies and they are now giving us a special, limited edition, egg shaped cookie for Easter. I'm thinking these oval shape will make the dunking in milk that much easier. Look for them in Walmart and Target stores.
Image result for easter egg oreos

3. Magnetic Bookmarks
Speaking of Easter, are you looking for some things to put in those baskets? Check out these magnetic bookmarks! The whole set is a little less than $10. Give them all to one lucky fellow or bust up the set and spread the joy. Either way, these things are winners! Click HERE to grab a set before they are gone.

4. Where the Crawdads Sing

I had heard so many things about this novel and it finally floated to the top of my read list. Oh.My.Goodness -- it's so good! Loved the story and the beautiful way it was told. Here's they synopsis from Amazon ~

For years, rumors of the "Marsh Girl" have haunted Barkley Cove, a quiet town on the North Carolina coast. So in late 1969, when handsome Chase Andrews is found dead, the locals immediately suspect Kya Clark, the so-called Marsh Girl. But Kya is not what they say. Sensitive and intelligent, she has survived for years alone in the marsh that she calls home, finding friends in the gulls and lessons in the sand. Then the time comes when she yearns to be touched and loved. When two young men from town become intrigued by her wild beauty, Kya opens herself to a new life--until the unthinkable happens.
Perfect for fans of Barbara Kingsolver and Karen Russell, Where the Crawdads Sing is at once an exquisite ode to the natural world, a heartbreaking coming-of-age story, and a surprising tale of possible murder. Owens reminds us that we are forever shaped by the children we once were, and that we are all subject to the beautiful and violent secrets that nature keeps.

If you don't have this one loaded on your Kindle or sitting on your nightstand, buy it immediately. I don't think you'll be sorry! Click HERE to get your hands on a copy.

Where the Crawdads Sing by [Owens, Delia]

5. Beware of scams....

Have a great weekend! I'm hoping to get all our Easter decorations in place over the next couple of days and will be sharing them with you next week. Also coming next week is a kettle corn recipe you won't want to miss. See you soon!

Linking up with:

The Peaceful Posse

The Blended Blog

This post contained affiliate links. I may receive a small commission if you click on the link and purchase. Thanks

Friday, February 2, 2018

Five on Friday - February 2, 2018

Happy Groundhog's Day! Just for the record (and I had to look this up because I can never remember), if a groundhog sees its shadow today, there will be six more weeks of winter. If it doesn't, we can expect spring to make an appearance sooner rather than later. Please, please, PLEASE Mr. Groundhog - don't see your shadow today!!

Here's my five for this week. Enjoy ~

1. Scratch-Off Valentine Jokes
February is here and Valentine's Day is just around the corner. These unique Peaceable Kingdom scratch-off cards could definitely bring the fun to any child's Valentine's Day card exchange. Heck, I'm thinking of some adults who would think they are pretty fun too! You can order yours HERE.

2. Still You by JoJo Moyes

Are you ready to see what happens to Louisa Clark when she arrives in New York? Well, now you can! JoJo Moyes' next installment into Louisa's life hit the stands this week and I for one can't wait to read it. Me Before You and After You were very enjoyable reads and I'm expecting Still You to be the same. Here's what Amazon said about this book:

Louisa Clark arrives in New York ready to start a new life, confident that she can embrace this new adventure and keep her relationship with Ambulance Sam alive across several thousand miles. She steps into the world of the superrich, working for Leonard Gopnik and his much younger second wife, Agnes. Lou is determined to get the most out of the experience and throws herself into her new job and New York life.

As she begins to mix in New York high society, Lou meets Joshua Ryan, a man who brings with him a whisper of her past. Before long, Lou finds herself torn between Fifth Avenue where she works and the treasure-filled vintage clothing store where she actually feels at home. And when matters come to a head, she has to ask herself: Who is Louisa Clark? And how do you reconcile a heart that lives in two places?

Funny, romantic, and poignant, Still Me follows Lou as she navigates how to stay true to herself, while pushing to live boldly in her brave new world.

Want a copy of your own? Click HERE.

3. Man of the Woods

Today is the day! Justin Timberlake's new CD - Man of the Woods - is released. Have you heard any of it yet? Oh Justin, I just love you! It's been four years since his last studio album. He's releasing this one just before his Super Bowl appearance at Sunday's halftime show. His tour starts on March 13 in Toronto. Is he coming to your city? You can get the new CD HERE.

4. Soup Crock

I had some reward dollars from World Market that were burning a hole in my pocket so I picked up these adorable soup crocks. They are definitely one of my favorite things this week. We are going to be having chili for game on Sunday and I can't wait to use them. Are you in need of some? Click HERE to check them out.

5. Dieting......

Hope your weekend is fabulous! I've been out of town all week and am looking forward to going home tonight. Before I head home I have a Scandal viewing party to attend. It's been a long week so I hope I can stay awake. Sunday I'm doing some crafting for a wedding shower I'm helping with and then we have the big game to watch. To be honest, I'm watching more for the commercials and half time show this year instead of the game. See you soon!

Linking up with:

The Peaceful Posse

Simply Sweet Home
High Five for Friday
5 on Friday

The Blended Blog
This post contained affiliate links. I may receive a small commission if you click on the link and purchase. Thanks

Friday, December 1, 2017

Five on Friday - December 1, 2017

Happy Friday guys! Weekends this time of year are the best and I'm excited to get this one started. Most of my shopping is done and I'm going to spend the weekend wrapping and regrouping to see what I have left to do. With any luck, come Monday I'll feel like I have this holiday thing under control! Until then, let me share my five for today with you ~

1. Gwen Stefani - You Make It Feel Like Christmas
Gwen Stefani added a new Christmas CD to her repertoire - You Make It Feel Like Christmas. This time of year, I love jamming out to Christmas music and I'm thinking this one would be a nice add to my collection. Want to add it to your collection also? Click HERE to purchase.

2. Your Future Looks Bright Postcard Book
Would you like to brighten someone's day in 2018? If so, you should consider picking up this pack of 12 postcards (6 designs, 2 of each). How fun would it be to open your mailbox and see one of these looking back at you!?! They are perfect for jotting a little note and dropping in the mail. Pick up yours HERE.

3. Little Debbie Christmas Sampler Box
Looking to spread a little joy this holiday season? Send someone the Little Debbie Christmas Sampler Box! The box contains Christmas Tree Cakes, Christmas Gingerbread Cookies, Christmas Tree Brownies, North Pole Nutty Bars, an exclusive Little Debbie travel cup and a surprise box of snacks!! All for only $24.99 and shipping is FREE! They only have a limited number so act fast. Click HERE to check it out.

4. USB Wall Charger
Do you have a million USB things to plug in? Well this little baby will handle 6 of them and only use one outlet. It's compact and lightweight enough to throw in your suitcase when you travel too! It also automatically identifies connected devices and their unique charging requirement, ensure a safe and efficient charging (honestly, I have no idea what this means, but it sounded important in the description). If you'd like one to tuck in someone's stocking, or if you'd just like one for yourself, click HERE to purchase.

5. Are you seeing Santa this weekend....

33 Christmas Humor Quotes #Christmas funny #Christmas Humor

Hope you have a wonderful weekend. We're looking forward to kicking off the holiday season with a party Sunday night. With any luck, I'll finish my decorating and get myself organized to face the week ahead. I'll check back in next week to let you know how that went down.

Linking up with:

The Peaceful Posse

Simply Sweet Home
High Five for Friday
5 on Friday
The Blended Blog
This post contained affiliate links. I may receive a small commission if you click on the link and purchase. Thanks

Thursday, August 25, 2016

Five on Friday - August 26, 2016

Hello Friday! This week has been a doozy! I didn't get a weekending post done, but last weekend we moved a couple TVs in our house to different rooms and it caused quite the chain reaction. A new piece of furniture had to be purchased, we moved two other pieces of furniture to different rooms ~ the list goes on and on. I would pretty much have to attach a flow chart to explain it. But that caused a disruption in three separate rooms and they are still not completely back to normal. So this weekend I'm cleaning, cleaning, cleaning and maybe doing a little throwing away (not something I'm very good at).

Before all that action, here's my five for today.

1. National Dog Day
Even though we don't currently have a dog living in our house, I know many, many of you do -- so today is the day for you to celebrate your furry friend! There are several articles suggesting owning a dog can help lower your blood pressure and improve your mood. And there's no question they are the most loyal things around. If you have a pup, give it an extra squeeze today and celebrate National Dog Day!

2. Dolly - Pure and Simple
I have a thing for Dolly Pardon. It could be that I remember my parents listening to her when I was growing up and her voice triggers my mind to think of those wonderful memories. She was on Jimmy Fallon this week and she's just such a lovely person. Her newest album - Pure and Simple is available now HERE. By the way, Jimmy said Dolly has sold over a 100 million albums! Now that's a lot of albums.

Dolly Pardon

3. Popcorn Indiana
So last week as I was rushing through Sam's Club, this bag caught my eye. I tossed a bag in my cart on the way by and didn't look back. I've been munching on it all week and this stuff is GOOD! If you see it, you might want to try it too. It has just the right amount of salt and is low cal. Win-Win.

4. Pumpkin Placemats

Look at these adorable fall placemats that are on sale at Kohl's. Set of 4 for only $10.40. With September knocking on the door, I feel like I need to bust out some fall decor around the house. These would make a perfect addition to our kitchen table. Want some? Click HERE to check them out.

5. Okay, sometimes this might be me....

Like Punnky's Facebook page and receive inspirational posts daily ---> https://www.facebook.com/punnkky:

If you live in the St. Louis area and are looking for some outdoor fun this weekend, there's a splendid art show happening not far from downtown in Fairview Heights, Illinois called The Midwest Salute to the Arts. The festival is Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Besides the art, there's great entertainment and an area dedicated to kids. Best part -- it's all FREE! Eric and I will definitely try to stop by the Salute sometime over the weekend.

Enjoy the last weekend of August. Hope to see you back next week.

Linking up with:

5 on Friday
The Triplet Farm
Why Girls Are Weird

This post contained affiliate links. I may receive a small commission if you click on the link and purchase. Thanks!

Thursday, August 4, 2016

Five on Friday - August 5, 2016

Hello Friday!! I'm so excited we made it to the weekend. Eric and I have some fun stuff planned for the next couple of days. I'm also excited to share my five for this Friday, so let's go!

1. Olympic Games!
Raise your hand if you are pumped about the Summer Olympic Games (both my hands are in the air)! I don't know what it is about the Olympics, but you'll find me glued to the television at 2:00 am watching a sport I don't even understand. Our DVR is about to explode because I want to tape EVERYTHING. Here's something you might not know about me. I secretly dream of being a synchronized swimmer. Crazy since I'm somewhat afraid of water and don't really know how to swim. I digress. Here's a schedule so you won't miss your favorite events ~

Olympic Summer 2016 Games Schedule. The Rio 2016 Summer Olympics schedule includes the dates for all the Olympic events. Printable version click here - http://printableteamschedules.com/olympics.php

Olympic Summer 2016 Games Schedule. The Rio 2016 Summer Olympics schedule includes the dates for all the Olympic events. Printable version click here - http://printableteamschedules.com/olympics.php

2. Now That's What I Call Music, Vol. 59
I love the Now cds and volume 59 is being released TODAY! Where else can you get 16 major current hits from the hottest artists on one cd?!? Some of the artists on this volume are Justin Timberlake, Sia, Meghan Trainor, Nick Jonas, P!nk - and the list goes on. Great mix of music. Want it? Click HERE to purchase yours.

3. Tax Free Weekend

Feel like doing some shopping this weekend! Well, in many states you can enjoy your school-related purchases and NOT HAVE TO PAY TAXES on them!! Woo Hoo! The below list shows the states that are participating. If you click on the state, you will go to a site that will explain the details for that state. Happy shopping!

Alabama Back to School Weekend – August 5-7, 2016 – Friday – Sunday.

Florida Tax Free Weekend – August 5-7, 2016 – Friday – Sunday.

Missouri Tax Free Weekend – August 5-7, 2016 – Friday – Sunday.

New Mexico Tax Free Weekend 2016 – August 5-7, 2016 – Friday – Sunday.

Ohio Tax Free Weekend 2016 – August 5-7, 2016 – Friday – Sunday.

Oklahoma Tax Free Weekend – August 5-7, 2016 – Friday – Sunday.

South Carolina Tax Free Weekend – August 5-7, 2016 – Friday – Sunday.

Texas Tax Free Weekend 2016 – August 5-7, 2016 – Friday – Sunday.

Virginia Tax Free Weekend 2016 – August 5-7, 2016 – Friday – Sunday.

Iowa Sales Tax Holiday – August 5-6, 2016 – Friday and Saturday only.

Louisiana Tax Free Weekend – August 5-6, 2016 – Friday and Saturday only.

Arkansas Sales Tax Free Details – August 6-7, 2016 – Saturday and Sunday only.

Maryland Tax Free Week 2016 – August 14-20, 2016

Connecticut Tax Free Week 2016 – August 21-27, 2016

4. National Underwear Day
Since today is National Underwear Day (hope you're wearing some), I thought I'd share Eric's new favorite kind. Eric and I tape Ellen everyday and watch it together in the evening. All the cool guy guests she has on the show is always bragging about their Ellen underwear, so for Christmas last year I gifted him a pair. He loves them! Loves them so much that he got more for Father's Day. If you're looking for some nice underwear for your guy, you might want to give them a try. (I'm hoping that Ellen somehow sees this blog and is so thrilled that I'm blogging about her underwear that she flies me and Eric out to see one of her shows. Any show -- it doesn't even have to be a 12 Days of Christmas show. Just sayin'.)

5. Food for Thought...

Now let's get this weekend started! Eric and I are going to the Muny tonight to see Fiddler on the Roof and then tomorrow we are headed to my hometown for the New Florence Old Settler's Picnic. I'm excited about seeing some of my friends I grew up with and helping my dad in the fish stand. If you want one of the best fish sandwiches you'll ever taste, stop by!

Linking up with:

Hill Collection

5 on Friday
The Triplet Farm
Why Girls Are Weird
Ins and Outs

This post contained affiliate links. I may receive a small commission if you click on the link and purchase. Thanks!

Thursday, June 16, 2016

Five on Friday - June 17, 2016

Happy Friday! It's hard to believe that we are already 17 days into June. This summer is going to be gone before we know it! Eric and I are doing something this weekend we've talked about for literally years. We are going camping! Can't say I'm a huge fan of camping, but we're going with my parents so it will be great to spend time with them. Ian and Kayla are joining us for the day on Saturday. Should be a great time and a Father's Day to remember.

Before I begin loading up, here's my five for this week ~

1. Orange Is The New Black
Season 4 debuts today!! My friend Linda is coming next week and we are designating an entire day to binge watch the whole season in one sitting. I'm packing a cooler full of refreshments and we are not moving our bottoms off the couch -- and I can not wait! I've missed my friends at Litchfield Penitentiary and am looking forward to seeing just what they are up to. Good thing I'm super busy from now until next Thursday or I might have had to sneak in an episode (or two). But I'm going to use ALL my will power and hold off until Linda gets here. Are you a fan?

2. National Martini Day
Get your glasses ready because Sunday is National Martini Day! Martinis are one of my favorite drinks. For years now, my go-to drink has been pomegranate martinis. My recipe is super simple. It's 2 parts of Langers Zero Sugar Added Pomegranate Juice Cocktail and 1 part Pearl Pomegranate vodka. Mix it up, pour it in a cute glass and you're good to go. I might actually need some to get through our camping trip...but I digress. Need some cute martini glasses? Check these out HERE. Pampered Chef has their adorable dot martini glasses on clearance. The set of four is only $10! These would make an adorable gift by themselves or paired with a bottle of vodka in a basket. I'm snatching some up! How about you?

3. Pure McCartney

Paul McCartney is touring his way around the country this summer and we here in St. Louis are lucky enough to have him in our city for one night. Eric and I are going with some friends and it's sure to be one of the highlights of the summer! Last week his 4 CD collection titled Pure McCartney was released. I really need to get this so I can brush up on my lyrics. It would be so embarrassing to be belting out the wrong words to his songs during the concert! Are you a McCartney fan? His new CD collection is available HERE.

4. Blueberry Pie Oreos

I sent Eric to Target to get a few things for the camping trip and he brought home a surprise - Blueberry Pie Oreos! Don't know how many will actually make it to the campground because we had a weak moment and opened the package. They are good. Enough said.

5. Honest mistake...

Have a great Father's Day weekend everyone! I'm so glad I have the opportunity to spend this one with my dad. See you next week!

Linking up with:

Hill Collection

5 on Friday
The Triplet Farm
Why Girls Are Weird
Ins and Outs

This post contained affiliate links. I may receive a small commission if you click on the link and purchase. Thanks!

Friday, February 19, 2016

Five on Friday - February 19, 2016

Welcome to Friday! Wow, this week has flown by for me. I've been working a lot and still have a lot of work to go before I'm ready for a program at my real job next week. I'm looking forward to a great weekend so I'll be all rested up and ready to go on Monday. Before I start the weekend, here's my Five on Friday ~

1. Our New Niece - Nevaeh
We got a very special surprise last week. My brother's family adopted a precious little girl and they named her Nevaeh. Her name is Heaven spelled backwards and she truly has been sent from there. Eric and I went to their house last weekend to meet her and she stole our hearts. We are so blessed to have her in our family!

2. Downton Abbey
There are so many things I love about Downton Abbey and I know I'm really going to miss this series when it concludes on March 6. One of the things I'm going to miss the most is Maggie Smith and her witty comments as she plays Violet, Dowager Countess of Grantham. When I ran across this you tube video, I knew it was going to be one of my favorites this week. What are you going to miss about Downton when it concludes?

3. 2016 Grammy Nominees CD
Eric has gotten me the Grammy Nominees CD for the last several years and I absolutely love them! It's all the best songs wrapped up in one great package. Artists like Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, and Meghan Trailor and many more have hits on this year's disc - 21 in total. Great mix of music!

Click HERE to purchase

4. Finger Puppets
I was searching for some Easter basket ideas this week for my little niece and nephews and ran across these adorable little finger puppets. How cute are they!?! The set includes one elephant, rabbit, bear, cow, mouse, panda, frog, duck, koala and dog. Each are approximately 2-1/2" in size. All ten are only $6.99, with free shipping! How could I pass them up?

Click HERE to purchase

5. Words to Live By....

Have a wonderful weekend! I'm hoping not to have to work on Saturday during the day and then we're going to a retirement party for my friend Janet who retired a few weeks ago in the evening. A bonus this weekend is our weather is supposed to be in the 70s! Woo Hoo! I might have to break out the sunscreen! See you back here next week!

Linking up with:

Hill Collection