Happy August 1st!
I’m back to school today. 🙁 Sad that my summer break is over but happy to be sharing my favorite things from July. One of which was my anniversary yesterday. Happy 8 years to us! You can read all about our wedding here.
Okay, let’s get to it. Continue reading “Currently Loving- July 2018”
March was fun! Overall I had a pretty good month, especially at the end when I went on my first spring break trip since I was in high school.
My mom and I went on a mother-daughter road trip to Texas and had the best time! We had to visit the mother-ship, Magnolia Market, and you can read all about it here.
February is notoriously known as the month of love. I jumped right on that bandwagon and started a month-long blog series called Sharing the Love. I wanted to showcase a few bloggers (home and fashion), YouTube channels, and Instagram accounts that I have loved following. If you missed out on that series scroll down for the links to those posts.
It’s no surprise to find this company on my list of current loves. I went deep with sharing the love during February in my Beautycounter Facebook Group. (Come join if you haven’t already.) I started promoting self love and even shared a product love of the day all month long. There were lots of the inspirational photos like the one above and just some general self-motivating thoughts for myself and my group of ladies. And the product love came from all areas of Beautycounter. We had makeup love, skin care love, and personal care love. Here are a few of those.
Do y’all know who Beth Moore is? Well, I’ve been loving her since the first time I heard her Hairbrush Story. It’s both hilarious and brings tears to my eyes. Beth is a Bible teacher that goes around the country and holds conferences for (primarily) women who want to learn about Jesus. On Wednesday nights on TBN her program, Living Proof Live, airs for 30 minutes. She is so anointed, and I learn a lot each time I watch. She’s also a fellow southern woman, and that makes it fun to watch because her Texas accent is pretty thick. Anyway, I am always so blessed by her sermons, and I thought someone else might be too. I’ve always enjoyed her teachings and used to listen to her a lot. As it goes, I found other people to listen to, other books to read, etc. But this month I decided to play one of the sermons I had on my DVR and immediately remembered why I started watching her in the first place. She just wants people to love Jesus. And she’s living proof that a relationship with Jesus can save your life. I DVR the program every week, but there are countless videos on YouTube. Listen to The Hairbrush Story below.
Well, thankfully I don’t have a deadline for this project. I shared the before of the bathroom a while back. You can read that here. Then it snowed and stayed too cold to paint. I finally had a three day weekend to knock out the painting, and I did it! Here’s what I did:
I’ve still got to:
I’m hoping this happens sooner rather than later. I’m hoping my spring break plans will bring me some inspiration and maybe even a few treasures to put in there.
I’m going to WACO! You know why…Magnolia!
A while back, my mom mentioned that we should go on a trip since my dad and brother do their own thing. They always pack up and go to places like Philly, NYC, and D.C. And we decided that it was our turn. So we are loading up the car and road tripping to the great state of Texas.
I’m so excited! I don’t think I’ve had an actual Spring Break trip since I was a senior in high school. That’s sad, y’all. It’s been a WHILE since high school. I don’t even care if all I buy is a cupcake from the bakery. I have watched every episode of Fixer Upper, read the books, stolen my mom’s Magnolia Journals, followed every social media account I can, ….you get the picture. I am a huge fan of the Gaines family and can’t wait to take this fun trip with my mama! If you’ve been, I’d appreciate any tips and/or must-sees and dos.
February was a pretty fun month for me. Full of love, a little self-discovery, and exciting plans for things to come. Here’s to a marvelous March, y’all!
Sort of felt like January drug on and on. I didn’t exactly want it to end, but it seemed like it wasn’t going to. I’m currently mouth breathing and couldn’t taste my dinner because of a cold. (And praying it doesn’t turn into the flu.) So, January didn’t end on a high note for me, but hopefully February brings health and wellness.
But that’s not why we’re here. There were some great things about January and I’m going to share them with you right now.
Y’all! It snowed again this winter!! I am a major lover of cold weather and the winter season, so the second snow and three snow days were very exciting for me. I know not everyone shares in my enthusiasm, but I loved it. Here are a few pictures of our place and a shot of my parents house.
Our backyard is basically the back of downtown retail space, so it’s not exactly picturesque, but anything covered in snow is beautiful to me.
I posted this book on Instagram right before the new year, and no, I haven’t finished it yet. However, it’s so funny! Shonda Rhimes has such a great sense of humor. Every time I pick it up I don’t want to put it down. I’ve just finished her commencement speech, and it was so true. She basically told a bunch of college graduates that the real world is hard. But that you have to get out there and do stuff to make it great and make it work for you. Sadly, I don’t even remember who spoke at my college graduation. I couldn’t tell you if it was a man or a woman, and I surely couldn’t tell you what they talked about. But I can tell you that I was clueless as to what the real world was going to be like. And Shonda’s right, it’s hard! I can’t wait to finish it and hope to do so soon. I’ll report back when I do.
Are any of you familiar with Young Living? If you are, you know all about the essential oils that they are most famous for. Well, let me tell you what else they have. The greatest lavender lip balm there ever was. I’ve been using it for over a year now almost every night. I love the lavender scent and it’s so creamy and moisturizing.
Now don’t get me wrong, I’m still loving my Beautycounter Peppermint Lip Conditioner. But during this flu season, I’m reaching for my Young Living lip balm more often than the lip conditioner. I’m a teacher who doesn’t want my germy fingers in the little pot the lip conditioner comes in for obvious reasons.
And with all that mouth breathing I’m doing, my lips are super dry. So thank you Young Living!
Yep.
You guys, Paul has been following me around with a can of Lysol for the past two days. Tonight, he didn’t let me cook dinner or clean up the kitchen because he didn’t want me contaminating anything. (Let me just remind you that I don’t actually have the flu. I have nasal congestion.) He’s too much! But I might milk this for a little while longer. I could get used to him doing all the cooking and cleaning up the kitchen. 🙂 Those two scents above (Lemon Breeze and Early Morning Breeze) are the least offensive of the Lysol scents. I never liked the smell of regular Lysol and think the pink can is just as bad. But the yellow and purple actually smell okay. I’ve been using them like crazy at home and school.
During the cabin fever that came from three snow days, Paul and I ventured out to the movies to see The Greatest Showman. I’ve been listening to the soundtrack for a while now, and it is the BEST! But the movie….y’all! If it’s still playing, go see it. It’s meant to be seen in the theater. The dancing and singing and the story is so powerful. It’s motivating, empowering, entertaining, and pulls at your heartstrings. I’ll be buying this one. I asked Paul to go see it again with me and he gave it a hard pass. So, if anyone in town wants to see it, I’m in! 🙂
I received a popsocket for my phone for Christmas. Where has this been all my life? It’s one of those things that you didn’t know you needed until it comes into your life. It just makes so much sense. It’s this little sticky, pop-up handle for your phone. And it’s the greatest prop for when you watch videos on your phone too. (I do this every morning, so if you get it for only this reason, it’s worth it.) Mine came from The Pineapple, and they had so many cute ones to choose from. This rose gold one with a black base is the one I have.
If you’ve been around for more than one post you know that I love TV. I’ve recently watched The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel twice, and Good Girls Revolt (very good) on Amazon Prime. I was looking for something else on Amazon to watch, and I had heard Suits was a good show but never cared to actually try it. I went for it and have already made it through season one and quickly working my way through season two. I am quite enjoying it. It’s a very interesting story and very entertaining. I’m a little nervous to find out what happens to Meghan Markle’s character now that she’s gone and gotten engaged to a royal. It’s not going to stop me from watching, though. I’m in, now. Hook, line, and sinker.
I’d love to hear any of your thoughts on my favorites of January. Especially any of you Suits watchers. Does it stay this good?
I hope y’all had a great January. If any of you got sick like I did, here’s to getting well and breathing through our noses again! And here’s to a February filled with lots of love.
Better late than never, right? I know we’ve gotten through half of January now, but I came across a few things that I just couldn’t not share with you.
Before we get into all that, I hope y’all had a great holiday season. I enjoyed a much needed break and spent some quality time with family and with myself. 🙂 I know so many people lost loved ones and dealt with family members in the hospital, but I still hope there were a few moments of wonder and joy that you were able to find during the holidays.
My Christmas tree was my favorite thing about my Christmas decor. It was so twinkly and magical. It went through a few phases (One and Two), and I miss it. I can’t wait until November to put it back up and see what kind of inspiration strikes me then.
This winter has brought some very cold temperatures. I know we have a winter every year, but this winter seems a little extra cold to me. I’m not complaining. Winter is my favorite season and cold weather is delightful to me, but my skin doesn’t love the cold temps with the heat on inside all the time. Thankfully I’ve got a great skin care regimen that helps keep my skin moisturized. I shared them in a post here. And if you want any of these products, you can shop them here.
I have always loved Christmas Break. It comes at a much needed time when children’s excitement is at an all-time high. And I’m a bit of a procrastinator, so I’m always grateful for the time to finish my shopping during the week instead of on crazy, busy weekends. But I also manage to spend a lot of time doing this…
Hallmark movies are on loop, I get to sleep in a bit, and then there’s lots of time spent with family and friends. I know most teachers would agree with me that Christmas Break is one of the great perks of the job.
It’s no surprise that I’ve found another show to watch. If you’ve been around for a while, you know that I love movies and television. I love to be entertained, and I almost always have a favorite show or movie on in the background. I recently discovered The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel on Amazon. 
Y’all….it’s one of the funniest shows I’ve watched in a really long time. Rachel Brosnahan is brilliant and deserved the Golden Globe and Critic’s Choice awards for her portrayal of Midge Maisel. Trust me, you’ll laugh out loud and want to watch it all over again. (I did!) 
I also rediscovered Sex and the City again. It was on E! for a mini marathon one night. I started watching it and kept going all the way through to the end (finished on Amazon). Sometimes it’s nice to “revisit old friends”. I love when I go back to old shows and watch them through more grown up eyes.
Over the Christmas break I went to a basketball game in Auburn. We got general admission tickets, so we got there really early and got floor seats. It was a great view, and we were even on TV! 🙂 Auburn’s doing really well right now. If you’re a fan, you should watch on TV or even go to a game! It’s pretty inexpensive and is always a great time. 
Breaks from school always allow time for reading. I finished a great book, Behind Closed Doors, over the holiday and wrote a little review about it here. It was exciting, scary, and thought-provoking. I highly recommend this one.
This was such a great day! I love snow and cold weather. And when we get it in Alabama, I’m the happiest girl. I think I’d do just fine in Chicago or NYC. The pups didn’t love it so much, though. And neither did Paul. But I sure did!
Have a great week, y’all!
XO,
Elizabeth
CURRENTLY LOVING- NOVEMBER 2017
Time to put away those pumpkins and bust out the Christmas trees, Santas, and if you live in my house, glitter! Anyone else feel like you blinked and November was over? Holy crap! It flew by and even though December means that a lot is about to be added to our calendars, I’m looking forward to it.
This Blog
My first favorite this month is this blog. I have been learning so much (still have so much to learn), and I have just been having fun playing with the new things I’ve learned.
I really enjoyed writing my Changes post. It was pretty personal, but it’s the truth and something that’s going on in my life. It was fun to write out my thoughts and feelings about this particular topic, and I hope that if anyone else is feeling this way that they found a hint of encouragement from that post. No one is alone in their feelings. 
I also enjoyed putting together all of my Holiday Gift Guides. I think I was most proud of the Gifts for Him guide because I’ve always been so bad at picking gifts for Paul. I remember getting him things for Christmas one year, and he took them back. Now, in his defense, he is horribly hard to buy for because he’s like most men and gets what he needs and wants throughout the year, so come Christmas there’s nothing left to get. But he told me after he read the post that he liked everything on the gift guide and thought the orange and blue golf shoes were very cool. 🙂 #wifewin Now, will he actually get any of those things? I can’t say yet!
My New Favorite Lipstick
That picture was a very happy mail day. I knew that I wanted to incorporate these lipsticks into my beauty routine as soon as I saw them. I read that we actually ingest our lip products. Yikes! So if our lip products are made of toxic materials, I think it’s a perfect place to start to make the switch to safer beauty. I received this holiday set from Beautycounter with the understanding that I could share with my clients and anyone interested in learning about the brand, but that they were to be put up for Christmas. Well, I have pretty much worn them everyday. (Sorry, Paul.) I love them so much. They truly are long-wearing, deeply pigmented, and smell and taste of peppermint. Did I mention I love them? I’d love for you to try them. You can check them out on the website here. They are currently out of stock until December 8th, but that’s plenty of time to order, get them in, and wear them to your holiday parties (or gift them). There’s also an option to be notified when they are available. Or I can do all the work for you. Just ask me how! One less thing for you to remember to do. 🙂 And if you’re local, call, text, or message me. I’d love for you to try them for yourselves.
Christmas Decor
If you follow any home decor bloggers on Instagram, then you’ve already been bombarded with picture after picture of Christmas trees, lights, wreaths, Santas, you get the picture. I’ve got to be honest, it’s one of my favorite things about Instagram. I love to see how other people decorate their homes. Do they go traditional or trendy? Do they have one tree or four? What are their family traditions? What outfits do they pick out for Christmas cards? And what about those party outfits? There’s always a lot of sparkles and sequins, and I love me a good sparkle.
Look at Fran Bacon of The Fashion Lift in her sparkly jumpsuit! She’s from the UK, and she’s my ultimate in hair goals. Those bangs! I wish mine would look so good. Not that I have them, but if I did, I’d want them to be just like hers. And the woman can rock a bold lip. She’s just so chic! You can find her on Instagram here. Great fashion sense and always fun to listen to because of her accent. 🙂
I’ve also been enjoying my own Christmas decor. I have a Holiday Home Tour coming to the blog soon, so you’ll get a peek into our home and at our decor. I mentioned in my Changes blog post that I decided not to go traditional this year, and it’s been fun. I’m enjoying it this year. I can’t wait to get some presents wrapped and put under the tree. Here’s a sneak peek.
Auburn Won the Iron Bowl
It’s great to be an Auburn Tiger! It was such a fun game, and I’m so happy I got to watch it with a bunch of Normans. Loud, bouncy Normans. There was a lot of jumping and high fiving and yelling during that game. At one point I look over and Ian (our nephew) and Paul were doing some kind of handshake, and the next thing I knew they were both lying on their backs with their legs and arms up in the air. I was informed that’s how the handshake ends. So much excitement! Now to get Georgia again this weekend. I heard Coach Malzahn say, “The best is yet to come.” 🙂 I believe Coach, and I believe in Auburn and love it!
9JKL
Have y’all been watching this show? I am so happy that Paul and I gave it a shot. It’s a funny 30 minute sitcom that will have you laughing out loud. Anytime we go to watch our DVR, I always request this show first. The dad is my favorite character, and during the Thanksgiving episode I looked at Paul and proclaimed them (the dad and mom- Harry and Judy) my soul mates.
Brief synopsis: Josh lives in an apartment (9K) in between his parents (9J) and his brother, sister-in-law, and their baby (9L). Hilarity ensues because of the boundaries, or lack thereof, amongst the family. It’s right up there on the “Funny Meter” with The Big Bang Theory. Here’s a clip-the one that made me think we were soul mates.
One More 
I’m not finished with this one yet, but it is very intriguing. I can tell that if I haven’t read it by Christmas break, I’ll definitely finish it then. My Aunt Sharon came to town and told me she was bringing it to me if I hadn’t read it yet. She’s very well-read and has excellent taste in literature, so I knew I’d better follow her advice and get right to this one. Have you read this one yet? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
So, what are you loving this November? Tell me in the comments! Have a very happy Friday and weekend and be looking out for my Holiday Home Tour in the next few days.
XO,
Elizabeth
CURRENTLY LOVING- OCTOBER 2017
Hi everyone! October is coming to a close and it’s officially holiday season! Hooray! It really is the most wonderful time of the year.
I have to take a minute to talk about that front stoop up there. Isn’t it dreamy? As much as I love the Christmas season and decor, this fall decor is giving me all the feels. It’s from one of my favorite bloggers, Alaina Kaczmarski of The Elizabeth Street Post. I’ll talk more about her later in this post.
But we’re not here to talk about the holidays, we’re here to talk about October. I’d like to share some of the things that came across my path that I loved during this gorgeous month.
Some Cooler Weather
Time for more of those outfits, amiright? About midway through the month it got a little chilly, left for a bit, then on the 28th there was that glorious cold front that came through. It was rainy and cold, and I stayed in and watched Hallmark Christmas movies all day while I worked on Beautycounter business and wrote several blog posts. It was one of those perfect fall days. Only thing that would have made it better was an unnecessary fire in a fireplace I don’t have. Ha! 🙂
I’m a Beautycounter Consultant
That brings me to my second favorite thing about October- Beautycounter. I’ve shared with you some of the products that I’d been using from them before, but this was the month that I signed on to become a consultant. I have a full post on why I joined that I’d love for you to read here. Here are some of my favorite products that I’ve been using from the very beginning of my journey with this wonderful company.
These were the original products that I started with from the brand, and I’ve not turned back. I love them so much, and they’re a safer option for your skin care routine. For more of my favorites read the original post here. You can also check out my right sidebar and choose the Safer Beauty tab to learn more. You can also visit my website with Beautycounter directly right here.
Tip Time
I was listening to Young House Love has a Podcast a while back, and Sherry was saying that one way they keep paper clutter out of their house was to take pictures on your phone of the pages that you like in a magazine and then upload them to a secret Pinterest board so that you don’t have a million magazines lying around your house. And I was like, duh!!! Why didn’t I think of that?! Thanks, Sherry! I just wanted to share that with y’all because it really is that easy! I got rid of SO MANY magazines because I did this and was able to pass the magazines along to friends and the local hospital waiting rooms.
Lighting
As always, I’m trying to find ways to improve my home and make it more “me”. Well, I’ve recently discovered the wonder of the world of lighting. Light fixtures are some of the most brilliant works of art out there. Although, I’m more of a traditionalist when it comes to lighting, there are some really fun and funky options that could totally make your space. Here’s a few that I really love.
I’ve saved the best for last. The is a photo of one of my very favorite bloggers that lives in one of my very favorite homes I’ve ever seen. Her style is impeccable, and I find myself wanting to copy her decor every time I see a new photo of her home. Look at this chandelier. 
Look at her whole apartment! It’s seriously one of the most beautiful homes. Remember the front stoop at the top of this post? Same blogger. Her style…ah! I love it! Check out her full home tour here. Trust me, you want to! And then you’ll be mad at me because you’ll immediately want to change everything about your home because her home is perfection.
Music
Every morning when I have my quiet time I listen to instrumental praise music. That’s the name of the Pandora station I listen to, actually. It has introduced me to so many new artists that I wouldn’t have known because I typically don’t listen to instrumental music. But in the mornings with Jesus, it’s nice. This song stopped me in my tracks the first time I heard it, and it still does even though I’ve heard it probably 30 times. I posted about it on my Instagram a while back, but I’m going to share it again here. Have a listen, won’t you?
One more, and DON’T judge ok? 
I am a big fan of Leslie Odom Jr. He plays Aaron Burr in Hamilton and is starring in the upcoming Murder on the Orient Express. The man has a beautiful voice, and it’s very unique. Last year he came out with a Christmas album, but I didn’t get it for whatever reason. Well, this year he announced he’s re-releasing a deluxe edition of the album. And, well, I caved. And I’m so glad I did! It’s SO GOOD! It was worth the $10 on itunes and will be great to play when I put up the tree. I’m more of a Rat Pack Christmas kind of girl than a Mariah Carey Christmas kind of girl anyway, so Leslie Odom Jr. fits right in with what I like.
Countdown to Christmas
The only other thing I’m loving during October is the Hallmark Channel. The harvest movies were fantastic, of course, and October was the kick-off for Countdown to Christmas. Like I said, it’s the most wonderful time of the year!
I hope everyone has had a lovely October, and I wish you a very Happy November!
XO,
Elizabeth
CURRENTLY LOVING- SEPTEMBER 2017
Hi friends! Anyone else feel like September just kind of blurred by? I am having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that October is, like, tomorrow. But it is, so I’m here to share some of my favorite things about September. I do, however, love October. It’s officially time for slightly cooler nights, lots of actual pumpkins (not just pumpkin spice), and things start changing colors…those beautiful colors. I digress…In no particular order here are some of my September favorites:
Walmart Finds
I’ve told y’all about the website Bauble Bar before and how much I love their jewelry. I just don’t really love their price tag. It’s not outrageous or anything, but I love a deal. That website inspired me to make these earrings instead of paying nearly $40 for them. 
Well, a while back I found these for $32. 
And these for $34.
Cute, right? Well, I follow this Instagram account called WhoaWaitWalmart. And they posted this picture.
And in case you can’t read that price, it says $4.00!! AND just this week they put on their Instastories that they are all marked down to $2.00! Bummer for those of us who live in Greenville because they didn’t get any of this cuteness, but I did find them in Montgomery at the Walmart on Chantilly. Here’s what I got. 
Don’t these look almost identical to the Bauble Bar ones? I paid the full $4, but still! I’m pretty bad at math, but that’s an eighth of the price right? I’m counting it as a win.
I’ll never quit black and white stripes. And how fun for Halloween?
I convinced myself I just needed one more pair so I could have game day earrings.
Now that they’re $2.00, I want to go back and get all the others I wanted. Anybody know how to grow a money tree? Because if you go back and look at that picture of all the earrings, how could you say no to any of them? So much goodness!
Ginger Hair
In case you don’t know this about me, I go through an annual period where I want to dye my hair red. I’ve done it once, and I didn’t realize how much upkeep it is to be a ginger. It faded so quickly, and I got nervous and let it grow out to a weird color before I dyed it blonde again. Well, it usually happens around fall. (Must be all those awesome Pinterest photos.) But I always chicken out. I get too nervous that I’ll look ridiculous or that I won’t be able to keep it up. Also, I want one of the more expensive processes to be done, so where’s that money tree again? Anyway, here’s what I want to do this time. Come follow me on Pinterest for more pointless red hair inspirtation. 🙂 
Isn’t it so gorgeous? Initially, I think it isn’t that drastic of a change, and yet as I’m writing this post I’m totally thinking, I could NEVER! But it’s SOOOOO pretty! I don’t know what my obsession is. I just love it. One day I’m going to do it and never look back. 🙂 
Also, anyone watching Making the Team with the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders? I have loved this show since it started. Kelli is cutthroat, and I love her! This beauty right up there is Stephanie. In this season, her hair is so gorgeous. Every time they show her, I say out loud how much I love her hair color. Maybe I’ll do it over Thanksgiving break so I have a week to get used to it. (Who am I kidding? I’ll be saying this again next September.)
Beachin’
Paul and I went to the beach recently with my parents and brother. It was a quick trip but much needed and definitely enjoyed. We were in Gulf Shores, and though we’ve been there countless times, we found new restaurants and had a great time. If you’re going soon, you should visit Fisher’s Dockside and pretty much order anything. It doesn’t disappoint.
Fashion Week
Fashion week has been happening all over the world recently, and I pulled together a few of my favorite looks from some great designers.
Oscar de la Renta
Carolina Herrera
See that silver dress above? Well, it looks stunning on the red carpet, but Sarah Paulson wore it to the Emmys earlier this month, and I really didn’t like it. Perhaps it’s the styling differences, but I loved it in the show. Here it is at the Emmys. 
Alberta Ferretti 
Now for some fashion funnies
I’m not knocking fashion as an art, but I’d never wear those glasses nor the purple swim cap dress. And it sort of looks like the 80’s are back at Gucci. Hmm…Fun to look at, and laugh at, at least.
Broadway Under the Stars
If you’ve never gotten the chance to go to Broadway Under the Stars at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, you are missing out on life! The Montgomery Symphony Orchestra comes to play music from Broadway shows past and present. They played Hamilton, y’all! It was the most perfect weather, and we had a wonderful spot complete with three little girls in front of us who ballet danced to nearly the whole thing. Next year, you must go! 
It’s outside on the grounds, hence “under the stars”. And the moon was full and enormous. It was practically magical.
And I just love this building and always have to take its picture. 
Also, we carried a picnic dinner from Jason’s Deli. I got the Caprese Panini, and all I can say is, how have I never eaten here before? Holy crap it’s good! And bonus, if you dine in, you get a complimentary ice cream cone for dessert. #winning 
Sean on the Porch
If you’ve never heard of Sean of the South, then click his name and go read his latest post. You won’t be able to stop at just one. He’s a magician with words. It’s unbelievable how good he is at telling stories. He’s a good ol’ southern boy who loves his wife, mama, and dog. He writes feel good stories, sad stories, love stories, and everything else in between. He recently came to Greenville to speak and play some guitar out at Nanny’s Fine Dining. It was a true pleasure to hear him tell stories in person. He’s just as good at that as he is at putting them on paper. Promise me you’ll go check him out. Just go ahead and sign up for them to come to your email every morning, ok? 
September was pretty good to me. I’ve clearly had a busy one. How was your September? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!
Have a great weekend, y’all!
Elizabeth
CURRENTLY LOVING-AUGUST
I feel like I say this every month, but how in the world is August over already?
I wouldn’t necessarily say that this is a bad thing. Because it leads me to my first favorite of August:
Fall
Okay, so I know it’s not fall yet, but August has notoriously been the month where I start really itching to wear scarves, boots, and sweaters. Unfortunately, living in the southern portion of Alabama is just not conducive to those things in August. However, a girl can dream, no?
Let’s start with fall decor. I don’t exactly have a front door to decorate, but Pinterest lets me see what I could do one day when I’m not in an apartment. This front porch is perfection. I’m obsessed.
I think I mostly love the buffalo check pillow in the picture below. But the hay, the rustic bench, pumpkins, and lanterns are so charming.
Something else I don’t have is a fireplace, but how great is that garland? I also love when there’s something in the fireplace that isn’t ashes from a leftover fire. I love this container of wood. And that “Thankful” sign. 
Next up for fall is, of course, fall fashion. If you’ve known me for any amount of time, you probably know that I love a scarf. I have too many to count; it’s shameful, really. Anyway, I found a few more I’d like to add to my collection. 
I actually like both of the entire outfits, but I especially love those scarves.
Next is a poncho (maybe not a poncho-I can’t quite tell if it has arm holes. I think it does, but maybe it’s a blanket scarf or just an oversize cardigan). Again with the buffalo check. I can’t get enough.
TV Show(s)
Any Game of Thrones fans out there? Paul and I just recently binged the series. We were caught up in real time by about episode three of this season (7). And we, like most of you, are wondering how in the heck we are going to wait until the next season! It definitely left us wanting so much more, so I’ll be excited for that one to come back.
We are mostly ready for September to bring our regular shows back that we love so much: NCIS, Bull, Big Bang, and so.many.more. We have a show or two most every night that we watch. We love us some TV.
Podcasts
Do y’all listen to podcasts? I am fairly new to this realm of entertainment, but I have to say, I really like it. I have three that I’m really loving lately. All, of course, are right up my alley from home decor to Broadway.
A Vegan
Yes, that’s right, a vegan. I subscribe to several channels on YouTube. And often times, YouTube will suggest videos that you might be interested in. Well, one day I saw this before and after picture of a girl who had lost a lot of weight and the title of the video was something to the effect of “How I lost 70 pounds”. So I clicked on her, and she just sat explaining herself and was so real about everything. Usually there’s a gimmick or a fitness program attached to these types of videos, but this girl just said, nope, nothing did this for me, but me. She began eating a high carb diet. Yep, HIGH carb. Hmm…my skeptic ears perked straight up. But I kept listening. Turns out, she’s a vegan and her YouTube name is High Carb Hannah. She makes the most delicious looking meals-all plant based and vegan-friendly. She is very passionate about the way she lost weight. She said it took her two years, but it was because she was transforming the way she ate. I’m not turning into a vegan by any means, but I do love these plant based meals she shows you how to make on her videos. I’ve got plans for a burrito bowl, and I can’t wait. I’ll share with you when I make it.
She gave me the idea to make these black bean burgers. I found the recipe on Pinterest and gave it a try with my dad a few weeks ago while my mom and Paul were out of town. (High Carb Hannah just posted this week about a black bean, sweet potato burger, and it looks AMAZING!)
Forgive my bad, unedited photos from that night, but this is how it went down.
They were seriously amazing, y’all. I want to eat them again but not as a burger. I sort of want an avocado type sandwich with the black bean patty. If anyone wants to know any tips about making these, let me know and I’ll do a quick post about them. And if you’re looking to clean up your diet, check out High Carb Hannah. I like what she’s doing for people by spreading the news that plants are good and good for you!
Now, let’s gear up for some football!! We’ll be yelling War Eagle here in the Norman house. I hope y’all have a safe Labor Day Weekend. Enjoy that extra day off! I know I will.
XO and War Eagle,
Elizabeth
CURRENTLY LOVING
Well, I hope you didn’t forget about me. I’ve been a little MIA this month due to lots of things, but a lot of it was because I’ve been enjoying my last month of summer vacation before school starts back.
I’m here to share a few things I’m currently loving this month and just to fill you in on life. There’s been a lot going on here around the Norman house, so let’s dive right in, shall we?
Let’s Start with the Negative
This month had so many wonderful things and still more wonderful things are happening the last few days of this month, but one pretty negative thing that happened was that I fell and sprained my ankle. 
I was walking down the back stairs to leave, stepped onto the stepping stones at the bottom of the stairs, but I stepped on it just right to roll my ankle off of the stone and go down to the ground. Arms flailing, dropped everything, hit the dirt. Paul wasn’t home, of course, so I called my mom to come help me. I couldn’t get up on my own and was scared to since I heard my ankle crack when it rolled off the stepping stone. She only lives a few minutes away, so she came right over carrying a walker that my grandparents’ used when they couldn’t get around well. And all I could thing was, “You’ve got to be kidding me. She brought me a walker?!” Turns out, it helped, she got me up and inside, and she even gave up her whole afternoon to drive me around so I could be x-ray’d and seen by the doctor. Thankfully, no break or fracture! I did get crutches, and, y’all, those things ain’t no joke. I’ve never had to have crutches before, and I feel like I’m a pretty coordinated person, but they were hard to maneuver and quite frankly, a pain in the you-know-what.
Another good thing about this situation, I was looked after and cared for and checked on by my wonderful family and friends. I greatly appreciate their worrying about me and taking care of me! I’m still in the brace in the picture above, but those crutches are long gone! (Praise the Lord!)
Now the Bittersweet
Last year when we moved back to Alabama from Louisiana, I was fortunate to get a job teaching at the school from which I graduated. I had the best class and the best experience at a school during a year of transition. But all good things come to an end, as they say, and my time there has ended. I pursued a job in public school, and I got it. I’ll be teaching third grade, and I’m looking forward to the new school and new age group. I’ve only taught Pre-K and Kindergarten, so third grade is a new challenge for me, but I know this is the right thing for me to do at this point in my career.
With that being said, to Mrs. Ellinor, Mrs. Debbie, Mrs. Susie, Mrs. Kaye, Mrs. Alicia, and Mama, thank you for taking me in and helping me out in every way you could. I literally couldn’t have done it without your help. I am so blessed to have come into an environment that truly felt like family, that was supportive, that was fun, that was never boring, and that had such dang good food! I’ll miss birthday celebrations! 🙂 And when things were so tough for our family this year, thank you for taking care of me and my mama. I love y’all so much!
Current TV Faves
It’s no surprise to see that heading. If you’ve been here more than once, you’ve probably seen something about television shows or movies.
Last month I mentioned that I was into Gossip Girl. (Paul likes to call this “trash tv”.) Apparently I really like “trash tv”. I managed to watch all episodes of Gossip Girl, all episodes of Southern Charm on Bravo (the past seasons are On Demand), and a few other shows that rank up there on his “trash tv” meter…I guess…I happen to quite like these shows and know that other people do too, so shut it, Paul. 🙂
But the truth is, Paul likes TV as much as I do, and though we may not watch “trash tv” together, we do watch a lot of great shows together. One we really got into was Stranger Things.
Holy moly, y’all! I don’t do scary, but this one was so good! We couldn’t get enough. Funny story, we watched it, finished the last episode, and the next night out bathroom light started flickering non-stop. *Gasp* I needed Eleven!! 🙂 Turns out, we just needed to change our light bulbs. And I heard they released the trailer for season two! I’ll definitely be watching.
Then we decided it was about time we jumped on the Game of Thrones train.
What a stinking emotional roller coaster! Anytime you like someone, they die. When you hate someone and they finally die, you cheer because they were so horrible. We have one episode left in season six, then we can catch up with season seven and be live with everyone else. I watch a lot of it through my fingers because it’s pretty graphic with the violence, but the story is interesting, and I totally get the hype now.
Also, the Mother of Dragons…favorite character, hands down.
Then Tyrion. He’s so funny! All three of these characters are really great, actually.
One more, maybe more wholesome and culturally educating thing I’ve been watching is the Smithsonian Channel. I decided maybe I was watching too much “trash tv” and needed something educational in my life, so I found the Smithsonian channel. My brother was in town a while back and found a show called Aerial America and that episode was about Philadelphia. He and my dad just went there on vacation, and he was pointing out all the things that they had done and seen. I became intrigued and looked up more shows that are on this channel. My most favorite so far is First Ladies Revealed. Amazing show! If you get this channel, just watch something. It’s so informative. And if you love history, you’ll love it.
Speaking of First Ladies
I’m currently reading Laura Bush’s memoir, Spoken From the Heart. 
You can see the crutches propped against the wall in this picture. I stayed off of my ankle a few days and was really able to dive into this amazing book during that time. I bought this from a thrift store and very long time ago and, like so many other books on my shelf, I’ve never gotten around to reading it. But in that effort to have more wholesome things in my life instead of the “trash tv”, I decided I’d give it a go. Laura Bush is excellent with words. She can describe a Texas landscape in a way that I know if I looked up that area, the picture in my mind would be exactly what I saw in a real photograph. She is a well-read woman who writes like a seasoned author. I am not finished yet, but I am absolutely loving it. I wish I had been old enough to truly follow, understand, and appreciate this administration as it was going on. I highly recommend this one.
Beauty Product
I’ve spoken about Beauty Counter products before here on the blog. I have been using their charcoal soap and charcoal mask for several months now. I am also using their sunscreen and have started using a foundation that I’m really enjoying. I apply it with a brush and find it very blendable, and you can build up coverage if you aren’t satisfied with the first application. It doesn’t feel too heavy, and the best part is- it’s a safe product for your skin. If you click the picture it’ll take you to the page about this product. I encourage you to look around the site if you are looking for safer beauty options.
Last but Not Least
I sure hope y’all are still reading.
Here’s just a few more random things I’m currently loving this month (most of these are recaps from Instagram, but I did thrown in a few I haven’t shared): 
Still obsessing over watermelon. Most of my local people are nearly out of their watermelons, though. Hopefully our local grocery stores have some good ones.
These were an early anniversary gift from Paul. Aren’t they fabulous?! They speak directly to my leopard-loving heart. You can get your own pair from the lovely boutique called Simply Chic Baton Rouge. They will ship to you here in Alabama. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook. Absolutely amazing!
I have loved visiting the Alabama Shakespeare Festival since I was kid. (The bathroom still has the same wallpaper, y’all! If any of you remember from field trips, that is.) This summer I was the third wheel on my parents’ date night to see Mary Poppins. It was a fabulous show, and if it’s still running, get your tickets now and go! And that gorgeous building…I just love it.
I recently got to experience BBQ 65 right off the interstate at the Pineapple exit. I got the smoked chicken sandwich with white BBQ sauce and friend green tomatoes. Just go. Do yourself a favor and go. You won’t be disappointed, and I’ve not heard one person say anything bad about what they ordered. DO IT! 
My mom’s birthday was this month and we had a delicious supper. My brother came home, and we spent the afternoon in the kitchen cooking for her. I gave her a Mary Kay Andrews’ cookbook, The Beach House Cookbook, for Christmas. There’s a recipe in there called Grits and Greens, and it’s southern deliciousness like you’ve never tasted. We thought it’d be good to put shrimp in it, so Andrew, my brother, made the shrimp, I made the casserole, and of course you have to have some Conecuh sausage to go with it. Birthday banana pudding for dessert, and we were all full as ticks. (That one’s for my daddy!) 🙂 So much goodness on that table right there. Mmm…
And just for fun…I love me some Snapchat. This filter is everything, and I can’t get enough of it. Its as fun as the one that gives you big lips and teeth. It’s the little things, right?
I sure hope y’all had a great July and a great summer. Enjoy these last few days before school starts for you and/or your kiddos. I know I’m going to!
