Books I Read in April 2023

Hello book lovers! As of today my Goodreads reading challenge page says I’m four books behind schedule. Oy! I have been cheating with a few podcasts, but life has also been consuming, and it has pushed reading to the back burner. No matter, though. Summer is around the corner, and I should have plenty of time to catch up. Do you do a reading challenge every year? Mine is always to read one more book than the year before, and I have to read 70 to reach my goal this year. (YIKES) But I managed to knock out seven this month, so that ain’t too shabby. Without further ado…

All My Knotted Up Life- Beth Moore

I’ve already spoken about this book in my last post, but I can say that it was my favorite read of April. Beth Moore has been teaching me about Jesus through books, bible studies, sermons, and interviews for as long as I can remember. This particular book, her memoir, was such an interesting view into her life. And you better believe that Jesus was all through it.

It Happened One Summer- Tessa Bailey

I waited for “several months”, as the Libby app told me, for It Happened One Summer. I had heard Tessa Bailey was a lot of fun and a little bit spicy. I would say that’s a fair description of her writing. This book follows an LA socialite to a small seaside town where she and her sister are forced to live for a short time. Naturally, the big city girl comes to the small town and falls in love with it all. Think Hallmark movie plot with HBO liberties. It was a fun read, and I’m already on the wait list for the book about this main character’s sister.

The Bodyguard- Katherine Center

For book club we read The Bodyguard. I enjoyed this book, but it was just okay. I say that because when I had to put it down, I wasn’t compelled to pick it up again or stay up late to finish it. It was a cute story of a female bodyguard that has been given the assignment of a handsome movie star. The close proximity and her recent breakup give you a will they/won’t they vibe. Again, it was cute but just okay for me.

I’m Glad My Mom Died- Jennette McCurdy

Boy, was this a tough one. However, it was incredibly done. This woman is truly a writer. I think that’s why this work so well. Jennette McCurdy did not have an easy childhood. One might even say it was a tad tumultuous. She explains in great detail her mom’s influence on her life, her disordered eating, and her inability to live life for herself. I truly did enjoy this book. I listened on the Libby app. Jennette reads it herself, which must have been tough, but it was nice to hear it in the author’s voice. I hate this term, but know there are tons of trigger warnings.

Matilda- Roald Dahl

After watching Matilda: The Musical on Netflix and loving the 90s movie with Danny DiVito, I knew that Matilda was going to be the perfect story to read to my students. Each class is different, but I knew that my students could handle the harshness of The Trunchbull and the magic of Matilda’s telekinesis. I’d never read this book, and I was blown away at the fun we had while reading it. I found the 90s movie on Youtube, as our school doesn’t allow Netflix, and we were able to do a comparison of the book and the movie during a few lunch breaks. What fun we’ve had! Reading to children is truly one of the greatest joys. Force it upon your kids! 🙂 You’ll all learn to love it.

The Great Gatsby- F. Scott Fitzgerald

My other book club likes to conquer a classic once a year, and this time we chose The Great Gatsby. I think I had read it twice before, but I was more than happy to read it again. I have always been fascinated with the story. This was exacerbated by the release of the movie featuring Leonardo Di Caprio. It’s his best look ever in a film. I digress…. I had different feelings about this tragic story. I felt that perhaps Gatsby was a bit obsessive. I used to find him to be completely enamored with Daisy, but this reading made me feel there was something unstable about him. Do I blame modern times on this thinking? Perhaps. I still enjoyed the story and wanted even more. A member of my book club expressed a need for more of the story about Myrtle’s demise, and I agree! Wouldn’t that have been a fun few chapters in the book! Anyway, I always recommend this book followed up with a watch of the movie.

Gather and Give: Sharing God’s Heart Through Everyday Hospitality- Amy Hannon

Mama kept telling me about this account on Instagram called Euna Mae’s. I finally started following the account and quickly learned to love Amy Hannon. We talked about her and expressed interest in going to one of her events, but mom settled on first giving me her book for Christmas this past year. I decided to take it slow and read it here and there during my quiet time in the morning. It took a long time to finish it, but I did. Along the way I made all but three of the recipes in the book. Each chapter ends with a recipe that is meant for sharing with others. I enjoyed making them so much. The chicken pot pie has been made multiple times in this Norman house. If you love Jesus and desire entertaining, I highly recommend this book to you.

How about that? Seven books in an incredibly busy month. I mean, I feel like it has zoomed by, and I can’t believe it’s over! I’d love to hear if you’ve read any of these books or hear what you’ve read in general. I’m still currently working on the last book in the ACOTAR series called A Court of Silver Flames. I’m also reading The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer during my quiet time now. So far it’s depressing but I’m hoping it will give me hope by the end. I’m also listening to The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn and am loving it! Leave me a comment to tell me your favorite book of April. Why not add more books to our TBR? 🙂

April Favorites

Wow! Where did the month go? I feel like I blinked, looked at the calendar and it was April 15th. And now- Bam! It’s over! Don’t we always feel that way, though? I mean, except for January. I’m always glad to see that one go. But what a quick month it’s been. Maybe because it’s been so full of such wonderful things. We had Easter, I helped throw a baby shower for a friend, I went to the beach, we had state testing, which wasn’t a favorite of the month, but it was totally a huge part of the month and a stress inducer. There were hair appointments (always good days), a book release I was excited about, the premier of the final season of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and so much more. Let’s dive in to all the good things I’ve deemed my favorites of the month.

Favorite Book of the Month

I can’t remember a time when Beth Moore wasn’t teaching me about Jesus. Her memoir was on my radar, but I couldn’t decide if I wanted to read the physical copy or listen to her read it to me on Audible. I decided to go with the Audible version. And listen, I knew some of her back story. I mean, I’ve listened to countless interviews, done a Bible study of hers, and watched all the Youtube videos. (This one is my favorite.) But, y’all, I was not prepared for some of these stories. I was not prepared for her to share as much as she did. If you’ve been studying under Mrs. Beth and have been blessed by her, please consider getting on the waitlist at the library or using an Audible credit for this one. You’ll love it.

Favorite Purchases of the month

Paul’s counsin’s incredibly stylish wife started a new online boutique called Not the Norm that has the cutest clothes. She had her first pop up at the beginning of the month, and I scooped up two colorful tops, which are way out of my comfort zone, but I love them both! The next pop up is on Saturday, May 6th at the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce. You should definitely come, you should definitely start following them on Instagram, and you should definitely go ahead and shop online.

It wouldn’t be a new month if I didn’t buy a book. This one was a highly anticipated release. So highly anticipated that I preordered it. If you’ve been around long enough, you know that I love Laura Tremaine. She wrote a book I loved called Share Your Stuff. I’ll Go First. She hosts a weekly podcast called 10 Things to Tell You that is a delight to listen to and learn from. And now she’s written a new book called The Life Council: 10 Friends Every Woman Needs. It came out early this month, but I haven’t been able to start it yet. I can’t wait!

Favorite Thing I Watched

I am so behind on shows, but I was most excited about the return of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Though it’s the last season, I’m still excited to see how they will wrap it up for us. I sort of appreciate the weekly release of the episodes. It’ll help me savor it. I have been such a huge fan of the show since the beginning and have watched the previous seasons multiple times. It became on of those “comfort shows” for me. If you’ve never watched, you must start at the beginning. Know that seasons 3 and 4 aren’t always top notch, but stick it out anyway. The endings will leave you floored. And just one more reason to watch it- the costumes. Gosh, that fashion is divine!

Paul and I watched Daisy Jones and the Six like the rest of the world. It was just okay for me. No, that’s not true. It was actually very good and well done. But I had just reread the book and had so many ideas fresh in my head, and when the show didn’t match my expectations, I turned my nose up at it. I thought the book was perfectly done and didn’t see any need to change anything, so I had a hard time with the show. However, if you’ve never read the book, I’m guessing you loved/will love the show, and I do recommend it. And while we’re talking TV fashion, Camilla’s outfit at the album cover shoot…that head scarf and oversized sunglasses- PERFECTION!

Favorite Thing I ate

Having lived in Louisiana one can get used to a caliber of food that just isn’t matched anywhere else. And one also cannot replicate that food on her own either. During Lent, Paul and I were thrilled to give the boiled crawfish from Pip’s a try. It was delicious, and we made ourselves incredibly satisfied over who-knows-how-many pounds of crawfish one Friday night. We even called over my parents, who never got crawfish while we lived in Louisiana. While it wasn’t my dad’s idea of a good time, mom liked it pretty good. It was a nice taste of our other home.

My birthday falls at the end of April, and my mom offered to make me a cake. She made a delicious chocolate cake with chocolate icing last year, and I told her I’d like that again. She decided to do a different recipe this year from the one and only Ina Garten. It was delicious, and I recommend finding any excuse to make it.

Other Favorites

Red Aspen Press On Nails
in Nina On Cloud Nine

I cannot get over how wonderful these press on nails are! The learning curve is short, and once you get the hang of it, you’ll love the natural look, the longevity, and the price. Nina on Cloud Nine is the perfect white mani. If you’re one who paints her own nails, you know how many coats it takes to get an opaque white mani. This takes about 20 minutes from start to finish and zero dry time! Get yours here.

Naghedi St. Barths Tote

It’s been high time for a new handbag around here, and I was kind of digging the woven tote bags I’d seen some of the influencers carry. Most of the ones I saw were the larger size one from Amazon. I think those are so cute, but I was in the mood for a change- smaller purse, bold color. Enter Naghedi. I first laid eyes on the St. Barths Tote via @nashvilletash in the gorgeous orchid color (no longer available). But I wanted one that I could carry longer than spring and summer. That’s when I perused the website and found it in poppy. She’s a bright orange that I will carry all year round. It’s neoprene, machine washable, and thoughtfully made. There are tons of styles and sizes. It’s a bit of an investment but not a huge one in comparison with more couture bags. It’s a total win in my book!

Countermatch Adaptive Moisture Lotion

I’ve droned on and on about my oily skin here, especially when talking about Beautycounter. Honestly, I’ve been dealing with it since I hit puberty. I was using and loving the Countertime Collection at Beautycounter, which is the anti-aging line that has a retinol alternative called Bakuchiol in it. It was super hydrating and I knew it was keeping those deep set wrinkles at bay. (Also, the eye cream is truly incredible and worth every penny!) Anyway, I just kept being EXTREMELY oily throughout the day, so I decided that I was going to experiment and see if a different moisturizing routine would help. I swapped the Supreme Cream (night) for the Soft Cream (day)- I put this on at night before bed. I was foregoing moisturizer in the mornings because the Soft Cream was too much moisture for my skin under my makeup, which happens to be a tinted moisturizer base.
I decided I needed some type of moisturizer in the morning, so I finally gave the Countermatch Adaptive Moisture Lotion a try. The beauty of this moisturizer is that it’s sort of like a mood ring for your face. It just knows what you are/need. I have been less oily than every before! It is so light and absorbs quickly into your skin. I cannot get over the sorcery that is in this product. 🙂 If you don’t love your current moisturizer, you must give this stuff a try! It’s pure magic!

I Feel Like I’m Missing Tons

April may have been fast and furious, but it was great! Lots of fun and lots of blessings. I hope April brought joy to your life, and I hope that May brings even more. We have another birthday I the house in May and let’s not forget the end of the school year! Counting down the days. Hope to share more soon.

Must Have Beautycounter Products

Beautycounter is 10 years old! I have had the most fun partnering with this company that is THE leader in clean beauty. They are leading the way in advocacy for safer beauty for everyone. It’s truly incredible to be a part of it. I’d love for you to explore more about joining the mission here.

My skincare journey is ever-evolving as I age, but some things remain the same. I’m sharing those products with you today, and I encourage you to consider making a safer swap like I have with these products. Let’s get started.

Skin Twin Creamy Concealer

I haven’t tried another concealer that hides the imperfections quite like this one does. It is truly a hero product in my book, and I’ll never be without it. I wear shade Light 1.

All Bright Vitamin C Serum

The benefits of Vitamin C as part of your skincare routine are endless. I am so happy to have found one that is gentle enough for me while packing a punch with two forms of vitamin c. My skin is brighter and healthier because of it.

Counter+ Charcoal Facial Mask

It’s the first product I ever purchased, and I’ve not been without it. I use it as an all-over mask and as a spot treatment. You will love how this mask makes your skin look and feel. (If you’re a person with acne or have a teen battling acne, this would be an excellent addition to your skincare.)

Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer

This is my go-to foundation. Yes, it’s just a tinted moisturizer, but it pairs beautifully with the concealer, so my skin can breathe while also getting the coverage it needs. I love how easily it applies with just fingers or even a blender. It has an SPF of 20, and I reach for it over a full coverage option any day. I wear shade No. 3.

Sheer Defense Facial Sunscreen

While the Dew Skin does have an SPF of 20, my dermatologist says that I need at least an SPF of 30 on my skin, so I layer these two. The thing I love about the Sheer Defense Sunscreen is that there is no white cast from the product, and it has an SPF of 25. So often we battle the white cast of sunscreen on a beach day, but on a regular day we do want to have it easier since we’re usually putting on a face of makeup. This is your product, ladies (and gentlemen). It layers beautifully under makeup and on its own. We all need that sun protection, and I have truly loved this sunscreen.

Beyond Gloss

Honestly, I can’t think of a bad Beautycounter lip product, but I do love the lip gloss. It is truly not sticky. I don’t know what kind of clean sorcery they have done to make it so perfect, but they have mastered it. It is made with responsibly sourced organic Madagascar vanilla, which gives it a lovely scent and a hydrating feel. My favorite everyday shade is Clove.

New to Beautycounter?

Newcomers to Beautycounter can use the code CLEANFORALL20 to receive 20% off their first purchase.

Rewards program

If you have a cart of $50 or more, you might want to consider joining our rewards program called the Band of Beauty. You’ll get a free gift just for joining for $10 and spending $50 in product. You’ll also get 10% product credit back to use on a future purchase. And if you’ve got $100+ worth in your cart, you’re getting free shipping! In the future, you’ll get exclusive offers too. I did it when I made my first purchase, and I loved the perks before I became a consultant.

Free Gift(s)

If you shop before March 10th (that’s just 2 more days, y’all) and spend $125, you’ll receive that All Bright C Serum for free!!! And if you spend $250, you’ll receive the All Bright C Serum and the AHA Reflect Effect Exfoliating Mask (both full size products) for free! It’s fun to have a birthday at Beautycounter. So many perks!

I’d love to answer any questions you have or recommend any products. Making a safer switch for yourself is an excellent gift to give yourself! You can make the switch here.

So It’s March Now…

Oh, hello, March! How did February come and go so quickly? I had every intention of blogging more than clothes in February, but I can only blame it on the stress of school. It was a hell of a month, and I am glad to be nearing spring break! But let’s put all that aside, I have a few things to share with you that I’m loving lately!

Spanx Air Essentials Lounge Set

I got the pullover for Christmas, and my oh my, it is the softest, most comfortable loungewear I’ve ever owned. I bought the pants myself, and while they’re also soft and comfortable, they ride up and up and up, and they’re also a tad long, so I feel like maybe I don’t recommend those as much as I do the top. I am very curious about the tapered leg pants, so I’ll let you know if I splurge for those. The pullover is worth the pennies, though. I size up one in Spanx. I typically wear an XL in pants or sweatshirts, but at Spanx I get the 1X.

Cloth napkins

Maybe I’ve talked about these before, but I love cloth napkins. You can sew them yourself or buy them anywhere. Local shops always have cute ones, and so do places like TJ Maxx and Home Goods, and Target. A paper towel will get the job done, but don’t the pretty patterns spark a little extra joy? I keep mine all mixed up in a big bowl in the middle of my table for easy access at dinnertime. Once you start, you’ll never go back!

Dots Pretzel

I wish these were a year round staple.

I cannot stop buying these pretzels. I like to keep a bag on hand. One at home, one at school, one in my lunchbox. You know, just covering all my bases. If you like pretzels, try these out. So far the honey mustard flavor is my favorite. I did love the cinnamon sugar ones, but I think they were limited edition. The original flavor ones are also delicious, but the cheese curl ones are no bueno.

The Bible in a Year Podcast

I heard about this podcast after listening to Annie Downs’ podcast when she talked to Father Mike Schmitz about Advent. She went on and on (and cried) about his Bible in a Year Podcast, and I was intrigued. I started January 1st and have kept up every morning. I actually listen to it and read along in my Bible for my quiet time. This is a totally different quiet time experience than I’ve ever had- listening to a podcast while learning about Jesus is definitely new for me- but I have enjoyed it a lot. He reads the scripture and then explains what we’ve just read. It’s like you get a mini sermon every morning. Don’t be turned off because he’s a Catholic priest. He’s very knowledgeable and easy to listen to. You’ll love him. Jump in where we are now or go back and catch up. Either way, you’ll be blessed.

New Balance 327

Paul is the sweetest human being. He will randomly surprise me with something I’ve mentioned that I wanted. He did that with these shoes and displayed them for me to find when I walked in the door. He’s a keeper!

I have been eyeing this particular style of shoe (327s) for about a year or so now, but I bought Brooks Adrenaline sneakers instead (and love them). But I saw that this beautiful lilac color was available, shared them with Paul, and was surprised with them shortly after that for an early Valentine’s Day present. They fit true to size and are very comfortable. I haven’t worn New Balance shoes since I wore the grey pair that everyone had back in the early 2000s. I am thrilled to report the hype is real, and now I want another color in this style. They sell out super quickly, so if you find a pair you want, grab them fast!

I sure hope you’ve had a great start to March. Daylight Saving Time begins next weekend. Are you a fan? Or are you one who would rather it just be left alone? I feel like I think it should be left alone. I do enjoy a little extra daylight, but my husband tends to linger on the golf course longer if there’s more daylight so…. 🙂 Have a great one, guys!

Closet Diaries | No. 4

You know that saying that goes something like: Adulthood is saying, “things will calm down in a week or two” until you die…. That’s how life feels lately. Go, go, go, one thing after another, someone is sick, someone is celebrating something, I have to go to the grocery story (yet again), etc, etc, etc. And I don’t even have children! This particular season of life is so great but so busy. I’m thankful for it all, but I often wish I could go back to being about 12 years old when my biggest stressor was studying for a test and having to wash the dishes after dinner. You feel me?

Anyway, I’m going to take some time to relax tonight. I will probably watch the Rhianna concert, I mean the Super Bowl, and probably read my book while the actual game is going on. But before that, I’ve got to go through the 28 Day of Style Challenge and get an idea of what I’d like my outfits to look like this week. We’ve got the big V-Day coming up, and I know I’m supposed to wear red. I have one red sweater, so I’m hoping it’s cold on Tuesday! This past week I was able to follow most of the prompts for the challenge, and I’ve enjoyed having a task for getting ready every morning. I also have enjoyed shopping my own closet for the outfits. I haven’t bought anything new for the challenge, but that’s the fun of it. It gets your creative juices flowing to rethink what you already have, which is good for your pocketbook and helps you create and maintain a sustainable wardrobe. Win-win. Without further ado, here are my looks from last week.

Monday

Blazer | Similar Chambray Button Down | Black Jeggings | Sneakers | Necklace from McFerrin’s

Style Challenge- Style an outfit around sneakers.
Blazer, leggings, and sneakers all fit true to size
Chambray shirt was a Goodwill find but from Old Navy. I can’t find the exact style, but the one I linked is very similar. This one was one size too big but it fits a little oversized and is great for layering. Don’t forget about your local second hand stores.

Tuesday

Similar Faux Leather Jacket | Similar Top (Mine’s from True South) | Jeans | Mules | Similar Scarf

Style Challenge was to winterize a spring dress. I just didn’t have the goods in my closet to make it happen. Plus it started in the 40s and climbed to the 70s today. I needed to layer. I also needed a spray tan, so I opted out of the style challenge today.
Everything fits true to size.
Head to True South to see if any of these tops are still in stock. It’s from the She and Sky brand.
The scarf is from an old Fab Fit Fun box. The one I linked is similar and much more affordable than what this one retailed for.

Wednesday

Similar Blazer | Graphic Tee | Black Jeans | Similar Black Mules | Earrings

Today’s Style Challenge was to style a graphic tee with a blazer. Can you even with this shirt? It says “So Many Books So Little Time”. Perfect for a reading teacher. It’s from the Etsy shop, Powerfully Positive. Fits true to size.
My blazer is a Goodwill find. The Prattville Goodwill is good, y’all. I linked my favorite Amazon one. Get your regular size.
The jeans are, once again, Old Navy. I have had these several years, and they are much more faded than the ones I linked to. Honestly, I don’t think my jeans were jet black to begin with. They were more of a faded black. Fit tour to size.
The mules I’m wearing are very old from Target. I couldn’t find any there, so I linked my favorite Amazon ones that have a slightly different buckle. True to size.

Thursday

Shirt | Similar Sweater | Jeans | Chelsea Rain Boots

Still loving this shirt so much. It’s extremely versatile, though I’ve only worn it styled this same way with a sweater draped over it. Oh well! It fits true to size.
I’ll wear these jeans until they have holes all in them. True to size.
Chelsea rain boots are my favorite style of rain boots. I opted for this taupe pair and want a black pair too. They’re comfortable and fit true to size.

Friday

Similar Jacket | Similar Blouse | Pants| Similar Booties

Today’s style challenge was Head to Toe Black! This is my sweet spot. My favorite color is black. I love to wear it and decorate with it, so I knew I’d find something to wear for this particular day.
My black shirt is old Entro from Wisteria Cottage. I think these types of shirts are easy to find at any boutique. I got my regular size.
Pants from Old Navy are old, but I was able to size down. They tend to grow with this linen/cotton blend.
Booties- get your true size.
My bracelets are either family heirlooms, unavailable, or Ronaldo. You can get Ronaldo at The Roost or McFerrin’s (I think), locally.

Saturday

Sweatshirt | Similar Sweatpants | Sneakers | Similar Coat

The Style Challenge for Saturday was “Sweats but make it fashion”. It was a rainy day, and I had to get out, so sweats was utter perfection.
Get your true size in the sweatshirt.
My pants are Time and Tru from Walmart but are old and not sold anymore. They are a true sweatpant with the elastic at the ankle. If the jogger style that I linked isn’t to your taste, I’d look in the men’s department in Walmart and try to find some plain black sweatpants. Try these.
Shoes are true to size.
The jacket is old from H&M. I recommend sizing down in H&M with anything that says “oversized”.

Have a wonderful rest of your weekend and a very LOVEly Valentine’s Day!

Closet Diaries | No. 3

Thankfully, this week has been less eventful than last week. I wasn’t really feeling creative in my wardrobe. But then Candace Read came along with a February Style Challenge! Pulled me right out of my funk. That didn’t kick in until Thursday for me, but I now have a plan of action for what I’ll wear this week. Join me!

Monday

Similar Sweater | Jeans | Sneakers | Similar Earrings (Mine are from True South)

*Should have hit this sweater with a steamer. Can’t blame this one on the seatbelt.

Tuesday

Similar Sweater | Jeans | Sneakers | Similar Headband (Mine is True South) | Tote Bag

*Zero inspiration. Sweater and jeans again because I needed flats and comfort.
*When buying a canvas tote from L.L. Bean, always opt for the long handles if you’re getting a larger size bag. There is no other option.

Wednesday

Blazer | Similar Shirt (Mine is old from Wisteria Cottage) | Jeans | Mules | Earrings (on sale)

*If I had it my way, I’d have this blazer in every color. It is so comfortable and lovely.

Thursday

Shirt | Linen Pants | Similar Boots | Necklace from McFerrin’s Jewelry

*This was the beginning of the style challenge for me. I don’t have any trousers in my wardrobe, which was the challenge for the day, but I did have some linen pants that I thought would work, and what do you know?! Perfect!

Friday

Similar Cardigan (Mine is from True South) | Black Tunic | Faux Leather Leggings | Similar Boots

*When buying Spanx leggings, go up one size than your normal size. I have found them to be the best fit. You can’t tell these are the faux leather leggings, but they are. They aren’t very warm, but they are very comfortable.

Saturday

Sweatshirt | Jeans | Sneakers | Similar Jacket

My man came out of the deer stand for a breakfast date, so I threw on some gold hoops with my jeans and sweatshirt and called it a day. And if there’s a better waffle than a Waffle House waffle, you’ll have to work mighty hard to change my mind.

I’m looking forward to attempting all the daily style challenges for the week ahead. I hope you’ll take a peak at it and look in your own closet for outfit inspo. Have a great one, y’all.

Closet Diaries | No. 2

Another week in the books, and boy it was an eventful one. I got to go to an Auburn basketball game, we had awards day at school, and Paul surprised me with tickets to see Hamilton on Saturday! What a week!! Here’s what I wore.

Monday

Similar Sweater | Jeans | Mules | Same Scarf (Mine is True South) | Earrings

This sweater is nearly identical to the one linked. Get your normal size.
Old Navy jeans are on sale at least once a week. Get on the email list!
I am trying not to get too sucked into scarves, but I love finding new ways to wear them.

Tuesday

Dress | Similar Boots | Similar Earrings

Size down one in this dress. It is 100% cotton, so maybe don’t dry it if you don’t want it to shrink.
The boots I linked are so cute, and I like them better than the old Target ones I own.
Couldn’t link the necklace, but it’s from McFerrin’s.
The earrings I linked are a smokey quartz instead of the black that I have, but they would go with literally everything.

Wednesday

Shirt | Sweatshirt | Jeans | Similar Boots | Purse | Earrings

Striped shirt is so cute and comfy. Get your true size. How is this WALMART? And only $20?!?!
The jeans- I’m trying to love them, but I don’t always. We’re getting to know each other. I will almost always wear them with a pointed toe boot or pump. These are not casual jeans for me.
This bag is Sole Society, a company that sadly went out of business. I did find the exact one on Poshmark and linked that one.
*For the basketball game I swapped the loose jeans for my favorite skinny jeans, swapped the boots for the Amazon mules, and threw on a white blazer to be warm and comfortable enough to walk around and stand during the game.

Thursday

Similar Jacket | Similar Dress | Similar Boots | Earrings

This dress was my very first H&M purchase in the height of the pandemic in 2020, so this exact one is not available anymore. It was listed as a chiffon dress when I bought it. They tend to have lots of those options available, especially closer to spring. The one I linked is a little pricier than H&M, but it’s so beautiful. If you do H&M, I’d consider sizing down but read the reviews always.

Friday

Sweatshirt | Jeans | Shoes

The sweatshirt was an Etsy find and is so adorable.
The New Balance 327s are new, bought from Ebay, though I found them for the same price on the website where they’re linked. I got my true size, and they’re perfect.

Saturday | Hamilton

Similar Blazer (Mine is True South) | White Top | Pants | Nude Pumps

I took a gamble on wearing heels not knowing how far we’d have to walk once we parked our car in Birmingham. It wasn’t too bad, though, because these heels are actually pretty comfortable. I was also glad to have the blazer for the chilly night air before and after the show.
**Plenty of these blazers left in True South when I went Friday afternoon.

We got home from Hamilton at about 1:15am and had church at 8:00, so the thought of picking out any clothes for next week seems like the most daunting thing. Instead, I think I’ll go get back in bed and take myself a nice rainy Sunday afternoon nap. Have a great week, y’all!

Closet Diaries | No. 1

I’ve been enjoying sharing all my outfits lately on Instagram, but I don’t always have time to link each piece. I thought I could compile my week’s worth of outfits here on the blog, link everything I can, and *hopefully* find some similar pieces if what I wore isn’t available.
These outfits are what I wear to work. (Except this week, we were off Monday.) I’m a teacher and very fortunate to be able to wear jeans to work everyday if I want to. We just have to abide by a few rules when wearing them, such as no distressing and we have to wear a nicer top with them. On Fridays we can be more casual and wear t-shirts/sweatshirts. Also, please forgive the iPhone mirror pics, but I’m snapping these on the way out the door, and that’s the most efficient way I can grab these photos. Okay, let’s get started!

Monday

Hat | Similar Hoodie | Similar Faux Leather Jacket | Jeans | Sneakers

*Wearing my true size in these jeans but think I could have gone down one size.
*Wearing my true size in the sneakers.

Tuesday

Dress (Olive color no longer available) | Similar Booties

*Wearing my true size in the dress. It’s roomy, but if you’re busty, stick with your true size.
*Similar booties linked are the same brand as what I’m wearing. I wear my true size.

Wednesday

Similar Top (Mine is from True South) | Jeans | Mules

*Jeans and mules are true to size.

Thursday

Similar Blazer (Mine is from True South) | Black tee | Jeans | Sneakers

*Jeans, black tee, and sneakers are true to size.

Friday

Denim Jacket | Similar Top | Jeggings | Similar Booties

*Denim jacket is in shade Birdie. Size down one.
*Jeggings are true to size
*Booties linked are the same brand as what I have. They are true to size.

Bonus: Spanx Air Essentials Set

Pullover | Wide Leg Pants

*Go with your true size in Spanx. For me that’s typically one size up from my pants/top size in regular clothes.

I look forward to putting together these round ups again. If you have any questions about the looks or if I forgot something that caught your eye, let me know! I’d be happy to find it for you.

4 Day Weeks are the Longest…

Hello friends!

You know, I’m not sure why I’m always surprised when a four day work week turns out to feel like the longest week of my life, but it always does. Monday was productive at home, and Tuesday was a great day.

But Wednesday.
Oh. My. Goodness.

Thursday was hair day! Praise be! It was also book club day. We read Every Summer After by Carley Fortune, and it was really good. I listened to it and really enjoyed the narrator.

I was basically itching to get out of the school house door on Friday afternoon, and I fully embraced relaxing Friday night.

So far Saturday has been lazy with the exception of laundry. The gloomy weather has been a great excuse to perch up on the couch and surf the internet for any good deals. I was influenced to buy this dress (got it in white but want in navy too if I love it) and this button down (got the blue and white bold stripe). I’ll let you know if they end up working out. They are relatively new arrivals, but we know how things start to sell out fast. I haven’t seen many people talking about the dress yet, so go ahead and scoop yours up now! The shirt wasn’t fully stocked but did have a few options left, so check it out now if you are curious. My motto is: Just return it later if it doesn’t work out or sell it to a friend.

Anyway, let’s wrap up this weekend by sharing a few things that have been useful, bringing me joy, and keeping me entertained lately.

We’ll start with an account on Instagram that is so incredibly interesting but also incredibly time-consuming. The account is @houseinhabit. She has a Substack account with a paid tier, which I don’t currently subscribe to, but I’m contemplating it. Jessica Kraus is the woman behind the account. She’s an independent journalist sharing hot takes and unpopular opinions on some of the biggest cases going on right now: Ghislaine Maxwell, Johnny Depp, Harvey Weinstein, and so many more. She’s unapologetic, authentic, and reliable. I am loving her account on Instagram and her newsletter. Riveting stuff, y’all, I promise!

The next thing I want to share is all about organization. I tried to be organized with my jewelry a while back. I even blogged about it in one of my early blog posts. (Check it out here.) It worked well until my Vivian Drew earring collection grew. Most of those are post-backed, so I found my trays overflowing. Enter an influencer on Instagram (but I can’t remember who). I saw her share this nifty little jewelry box that was not only pretty, but would help me keep things organized and tidy. Plus it would free up some space on the top of my dresser. It’s made a world of difference! You can take apart the dividers and customize it to fit what you need, but some drawers have different sized dividers than others. I’ve loved it!

Okay, I said I’d never use another planner in all my life. I even wrote a blog post about how much I loved the Simplified Daily Planner. (See that blog post here). But…… My mom always gives me a planner for Christmas, and I threw her for a loop when I said that I wanted to change to the Weekly Planner. Let me just tell you- I LOVE IT! Trying the weekly view of the planner was a great gamble.

Maybe the best thing about it is the absence of the spiral binding. I didn’t really care all that much about it when I was using the daily planner, but now that it’s gone, I am realizing how much better the weekly planner is- aesthetically and performative-ly. It also has a ribbon bookmark. I was always using paperclips or binder clips to mark my spot in the daily planner. This version is so much more efficient for me. If you’re a not-so-busy person that doesn’t need to schedule your day out by the hour, consider this weekly version. It has been a perfect fit for me.

I can’t believe I’m writing about this damn cup, but here we go. How many of us have seen an influencer on Instagram carrying this Stanley cup around? (I’m imagining all of you saying, “Omg, me!”.) Well, my mom of all people was the one who was influenced and scooped up one for me while it was on sale. Guys, it’s a cup. It keeps my water just as cold as my Yetis, Ozark Trails, Orcas, and Hydro Flasks.
But what’s so great about it is the handle. The HANDLE! I am willing to buy more cups with handles. I don’t think it has to be a Stanley cup. But the handle is the ticket! Also the 40oz capacity is great. And the straw. Don’t you drink more or drink faster when you drink out of a straw, or is that just me? Okay, so get a cup with a handle and a straw that holds 40oz of water. So….maybe just get a Stanley cup.

I can’t let this week go by without talking about press on nails. Yes! I know! But press on nails are still a thing. Apparently Kim Kardashian talked about them and people went nuts, but I’ve been on this train for about a year now. I took a break for a while because of the beautiful Zoya polishes that I just had to try out, but I’ve started wearing the nails again. I discovered Red Aspen Love from Megan (@counterfam), gave them a try, and fell in love. As with most new things, there’s a learning curve, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll get better and better at the application and you’ll be so impressed with how natural they look. Everyone asks about them when I wear them, and I’m so excited to tell them they are press ons.
They are, at most, $16 a set. I can get 2 manicures out of each set, and the nails last up to two weeks. The amount of money you save by using these is incredible compared to the price you pay at a salon. Another plus about this brand is that the glue is a safer glue and a million times better than what’s used when you go have them done. I’m having a little pop up party, so if you’re curious, I’d love for you to shop through this link.

Lastly, I’m currently listening to Spare by Prince Harry. I have a lot of thoughts and not all of them are that positive. However, I’m only finished with part one. Maybe I’ll change my mind by the end of the book. Stay tuned here and on Instagram, where I normally post my quick reviews of the books I read. If you’re a royal watcher and happen to be reading this one, let me know. I’d love to know your thoughts.

That’s gonna do it for this week. Here’s to a restful Sunday and a great week ahead! See you next week. I’ve got lots of fun things planned, and I can’t wait to share!

What I Read in 2022

Oh the joy reading brings me! I have been writing book recap blog posts for a while now, and I love to share what I’m reading in real time over on my Instagram page, too. Because I read so much, I like to set a yearly goal. Every year the goal is to read one more book than I did the year before. My goal for 2022 was 60 books. I read 69!! Here they are in the order in which they were read.

January Titles

  1. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever- Barbara Robinson | Read for my class. It’s a funny story about a church Christmas pageant and a lovely take on the nativity through the eyes of some bad kids. Love this one!
  2. Bringing Down the Duke-Evie Dunmore | A good story with strong female characters. A bit of a steamy read.
  3. The Book of Lost Names- Kristen Harmel (My favorite of the month.) | WWII novel about a woman who forged false papers for people. I waited for 6 months for this book at the library, and it was worth the wait.
  4. A Court of Thorns and Roses- Sarah J. Maas | Everyone said I should read it. They were right.

Februray Titles

  1. The Devil Wears Prada- Lauren Weisberger | It was available in audio format at the library, so I gave it a reread, well, listen. I forgot how much different it was from the movie. Still good.
  2. When Life Gives You Lululemons- Lauren Weisberger | This was funny and cute. Follows Emily from The Devil Wears Prada. Never imagined her to be like she is!
  3. Zombies Don’t Play Soccer- Debbie Dadey and Marcia Thornton Jones (The Adventure of the Bailey School Kids) | Year after year my students love these books.
  4. Transcendent Kingdom- Yaa Gyasi | Tough story about opioid addiction and loss but beautifully told. Excellent for book clubs.
  5. The Secrets of Love Story Bridge- Phaedra Patrick | This one was not good. Very unrealistic and, well, just not good.
  6. In Five Years- Rebecca Serle | Compelling story that has a bit of time travel. Extremely sad but also very good.
  7. Taste- Stanley Tucci (My favorite of the Month) | Listen to the audiobook to hear him read it but buy the physical copy for the recipes! That’s what I did.

March Titles

  1. The Lions of Fifth Avenue- Fiona Davis ( My favorite of the month) | I couldn’t believe some of the things that happened in this story.
  2. Ghosts Don’t Eat Potato Chips- Debbie Dadey and Marcia Thornton Jones (The Adventure of the Bailey School Kids) | Better than the soccer one.
  3. Things We Never Got Over- Lucy Score | I didn’t like the writing (though I’m in the minority). I was invested in the characters, but I thought it lacked imagination and depth.
  4. Inheritance- Katharine McGee | This book was a prequel to the American Royals book series. I’ve been loving these characters.

April Titles

  1. Local Woman Missing- Mary Kubica (My favorite of the month) | This book has a great twist- I didn’t see it coming! Very compelling read.
  2. The Matzah Ball- Jean Meltzer | Pretty cheesy but cute. It’s about a Jewish woman who writes Christmas stories. There’s some elements of chronic illness in it, which was something I’ve never encountered in literature.
  3. The Atlas Six- Olive Blake | This was a very popular book series, but I didn’t like it. I just think it’s not my genre. Check out the synopsis before you discount it. Lots of people love it.
  4. Where the Crawdads Sing- Delia Owens | Are we allowed to talk about her anymore? I know she’s steeped in controversy, like murder controversy. Anyway, I reread it to get reacquainted with the story before I watched the movie when it came out in the summer.

May Titles

  1. Lonesome Dove- Larry McMurtry (My favorite book of the year) | An incredible story that will have you feeling literally all the feels. You’ll laugh then cry and miss them when the story is over. If you read a western in your life, read this one.
  2. The House in the Cerulean Sea- T.J. Klune | This book was interesting, weird, entertaining, and a little unsettling. It’s a book a man who is assigned to a home of strange children. One child is named Lucy. He’s the son of satan but is a likeable character who might actually have good in him. Like I said, it’s weird but a good story with lots of happy feelings and a sense of belonging for the outcasts of the world.
  3. In a New York Minute- Kate Spencer | This story had a great meet-cute on the subway. It wasn’t very realistic, but it was an endearing love story nonetheless.
  4. The Home Wreckers- Mary Kay Andrews | There was a good story-within-a-story in this book. I wanted more of that. It was mysterious and lighthearted like most MKA books. I thought I had the mystery figured out, but I didn’t! Liked it a lot.
  5. A Court of Mist and Fury- Sarah J. Maas | Like everyone else says: it was better than the first one!

June Titles

  1. The Big Door Prize- M. O. Walsh | A book about a machine that can tell you what you should do with your life. A small Louisiana town experiences such a machine and you get to witness that upheaval that town goes through. Not anything like I thought it was going to be, but I really liked how it made me think.
  2. Matrix- Lauren Groff | Gosh, what a beautifully written book. The prose just wraps you up and leaves your mouth agape. It’s a book about medieval nuns, but it’s not what you think. Quite the story.
  3. Miss Julia Speaks Her Mind- Ann B. Ross | I had so much fun getting to know Miss Julia and want to read more about her.
  4. The Personal Librarian- Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray | I liked the historical portions of this book about J.P. Morgan’s personal librarian who was a black woman that passed for a white woman. Great story.
  5. From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler- E. L. Konigsburg | I started this one with my students, but they didn’t like it. I finished it in the summer and loved it. The ending was especially wonderful.
  6. Meant to Be- Emily Giffin (My favorite of the month) | Oh my goodness! Just read it! It’s a reimagining of what could have been with JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessett Kennedy.
  7. Beach Read- Emily Henry | I am the only person in the world that does not like this author and her books. I’m sure you’ll love it, but I’ve yet to enjoy one of her stories. They annoy me.

July Titles

  1. Yinka, Where is Your Huzband?- Lizzie Damilola Blackburn | This was a lovely story about a Nigerian woman who has an overbearing mother and aunties who want her to get married. She discovers herself in the book, and I loved that journey. Seriously great book.
  2. The House Across the Lake- Riley Sager | This book had me up until the big twist. Then I was out. All the way out. No thank you.
  3. 28 Summers- Elin Hilderbrand | Ugh! What a gut punch. But it was wonderful.
  4. The Love of My Life- Rosie Walsh | Took me a while to get into it but once I did, I was hooked. Imagine thinking you know who you’re married to and then BAM you don’t! Great story.
  5. It Ends with Us- Colleen Hoover | Jumped on this bandwagon. So glad I did! You should too.
  6. The Paris Apartment- Lucy Foley | This was a pretty good mystery. Not amazing but good.
  7. The Lifestyle- Taylor Hahn | This was supposed to be a reimagining of Emma by Jane Austen with a singers twist. Weird and not for me.
  8. Nora Goes Off Script- Annabel Monaghan | Super cute story of a writer who allows a film to shoot at her home. She meets the lead actor and well, you can imagine what happens next. It was very good.
  9. The Hotel Nantucket- Elin Hilderbrand | Loved this end of summer book. I wish I could stay at this fictional hotel.
  10. Reminders of Him- Colleen Hoover (My favorite of the month) | I didn’t think she could top herself with It Ends with Us, but I was wrong. This one was better. I cried for three solid chapters, but it was worth it.

August Titles

  1. The Sixth Wedding- Elin Hilderbrand | This was a sequel to 28 Summers. I enjoyed revisiting some of these characters. Short and sweet and enjoyable.
  2. Freckle Juice- Judy Blume | I love reading this every year to my students at the beginning of the year.
  3. Things We Do in the Dark- Jennifer Hillier | This mystery didn’t pick up until about page 200. I’d say skip it.
  4. Rivals- Katherine McGee | Finally the next installment of the American Royals series. I thought it was the final book but NO!! More to come! Hooray!

September Titles

  1. Prep– Curtis Sittenfeld | I’m normally a Curtis Sittenfeld fan, but this one was supremely boring and annoying.
  2. Once Upon a Wardrobe– Patti Henry | A feel good novel with a C. S. Lewis connection that tugs at your heartstrings.
  3. The Paper Palace– Miranda Cowley | A complicated tale of forbidden love. The ending left me wanting more, though, not necessarily in a good way.
  4. Anne of Green Gables– L. M. Montgomery | How have I never read this until my 30s? It had me laughing and crying. A must-read.
  5. Persuasion– Jane Austen | After watching the new film on Netflix (which I loved), I had to read it. I listened to the Audible production, and it was wonderful.

October Titles

  1. The It Girl– Ruth Ware | In true Ruth Ware fashion, it’s a good mystery. I found it to be a little too long for my personal taste, but it was pretty good.
  2. Carrie Soto is Back– Taylor Jenkins Reid | I’ve yet to read a book by TJR that I didn’t like. I’ve never wanted to play/watch tennis more. Also, I am totally open to reading more sports books.
  3. The Mother Next Door– Tara Laskowski | This Halloween based whodunit was a fun audiobook to get you in the spirit of Halloween without the scare factor.
  4. The Love Hypothesis– Ali Hazelwood | Just as good as everyone said it was. I will definitely read more from her.
  5. Run, Rose, Run– James Patterson and Dolly Parton | You must do the audiobook for this one. Dolly voices a character, which was delightful to my ears.
  6. Stuart Little– E. B. White | I’d never read this book and decided to read it to my students. None of us really liked it.
  7. Olive, Again– Elizabeth Strout | Olive is a delightfully strange character that I want more of. Elizabeth Strout is a beautiful writer.

November Titles

  1. It Starts with Us– Colleen Hover | I definitely enjoyed getting more of the story of Lily and Atlas. If you loved It Ends with Us, you must read this sequel.
  2. The Other Einstein– Marie Benedict | My main takeaway from this book was that women are incredible and Albert Einstein was a tool. (If any of the things about him are true)
  3. The Best Worst Christmas– Kate Forster | This is an Audible exclusive and was very cute. I wanted a Christmas story, and that’s what I got. It was short and funny.
  4. Ready Freddy in Thanksgiving Turkey Trouble– Abby Klein | I read this one every year to my class. Short, hilarious, and holds their attention. Love it!
  5. This is Where I Leave You– Jonathan Tropper | While the movie is okay, you must read this book! Darkly funny and all the family dysfunction.
  6. Funny You Should Ask– Elissa Sussman | Fun tale about a romance with a superstar. I enjoyed these characters.

December Titles

  1. The Tobacco Wives– Adele Myers | I just loved this story about the wives of the men in the tobacco industry and how they start to discover that glamorous cigarettes maybe aren’t all that great after all.
  2. The Last Thing He Told Me– Laura Dave | I couldn’t stop with this story. It’s a fast paced mystery that has an ending that tugged on my heartstrings and delivered a gut punch all in a matter of a few paragraphs.
  3. A Christmas Carol– Charles Dickens | A delight to read after seeing every movie adaptation ever made, basically. However, I advise reading it along with the audiobook narrated by Tim Curry. He does the best voices.
  4. Christmas in Winchester– Dawn Ramos | A sweet Hallmark movie of a book. I wanted to visit Winchester after I was finished with the story. Adorable.
  5. The Christmas Bookshop– Jenny Colgan | I thought this one was pretty cute. I could definitely see it being played out as a movie or tv show. I enjoyed loving and hating the cast of characters and really loved the setting of the book.
  6. Lessons in Chemistry– Bonnie Garmus | My second favorite book of the year. I couldn’t get over the story of Elizabeth Zott. I think all you girls need to read this one.

Sixty-nine books! Wow! It was a good reading year. I do want to finish he ACOTAR series and would like to read a few more classics this year. Other than that, we’ll see where the year takes me.

The goal for 2023 is 70. I’m not sure how I’ll manage that, but I am up for the challenge. As I mentioned before, I share and recommend books in real time over on Instagram, and I plan to keep that up this year. I’m looking forward to what this year has in store for reading. Please leave a comment with your favorite book or books of 2022. I’d love to see them!