Month: January 2021

Posted in Monthly Musings

Monthly Musings

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello! Today, I’m linking up with Patty and Holly for their Monthly Musings series.

This month’s topic is Valentines/Love.

Let me just say that I like Valentine’s Day, but it’s certainly not a holiday that I feel deserves the hype that it gets. It’s a commercialized holiday, and I feel that you should show the ones you love your love all 365 days of the year.

Of course, I’ve been blessed to have had the same Valentine for almost 20 years, but I guess I didn’t start making a big deal about V Day until I had kids. Now, it’s an extra day where I focus on them, make them a good breakfast, and buy them a few gifts.

Showing Love/Love Language:

I think I show my love by writing notes. I also love receiving notes, so I guess I assume others like them too. I also love cooking and baking for others to show my love as well.

Now, as far as the five love languages go, I think my language must be “Acts of Service,” because I love nothing more than someone else unloading the dishwasher or making the bed. 😂

Valentine’s Day Traditions:

As far as traditions are concerned, Travis and I usually find a time sometime around Valentine’s Day to go out to dinner. That’s typically our gift to one another because we often don’t have time to go out when it’s just the two of us.

Since I love receiving cards, that’s a part of the deal too. A card is all I need.

Once the kids were old enough to understand Valentine’s Day, I started making them a nice breakfast on February 14th and buying them a few things, so that’s one of our traditions.

Ever since the kids were little, I’ve ordered Valentine’s Day cards from Shutterfly to send to family.

This post reminds me that I need to order our 2021 card!

Here’s last year’s card:

{front}

{back}

Valentine’s Day Memory:

I don’t have any memories that stick out to me. I do remember loving Valentine’s Day parties in elementary school. It was always fun to make our Valentine’s Day card boxes, give cards to classmates, and enjoy tons of candy and cupcakes!

The kids love their Valentine’s Day parties as well. I know some of the excitement wanes as they get into the upper elementary grades, but I still hate that they are missing out on their last Valentine’s Day party of elementary school.

For laughs, here are the boxes they made last year:

Hadley loves details, and Hayden takes a simpler approach!

Through the years, Travis has upped his card game, and always writes my name in bubble letters. 😆

Valentine’s Day Treat:

The past few years, I’ve ordered cookies from local small businesses for the kids and Travis to share.

Valentine’s Day Fashion:

Well, since they were little, I’ve had Hayden and Hadley wear some kind of heart or red/white clothing for their Valentine’s Day parties.

Here are a couple pics from years past!

{2011}

{2015}

{2016}

I’ve already shared this in pervious posts, but Hadley loves her new Valentine’s Day sweatshirt that I got her this year from MelandMae on Etsy.

Valentine’s Day: Love, Like, or Hard Pass?

I like Valentine’s Day. I enjoy creating a special day for the kids and for Travis.

Romantic Song:

Someone Like You was our wedding song, and it holds a special place in my heart.

Dine out, Carry out or Cook?

Like I said before, Travis and I usually go out to dinner around Valentine’s Day.

Last year, Valentine’s Day was on a Friday, so I actually made dinner at home for everyone. I used a few of our house decorations to make a cute centerpiece, and I ordered paper hearts, plates, napkins, and straws from Amazon.

I also ordered the cardstock hearts, and I wrote each person’s name on one as a place card.

**I kept the extra plates, napkins, straws, hearts, and place cards in a tub, so I can use them again this year.

Pink or Red?

I think I’m more of a pink girl…or rose gold!

Flowers or Chocolate?

Both?! haha I do love flowers and the little boxes of chocolate are just perfect to satisfy my sweet tooth!

So, those are my thoughts on Valentine’s Day! I’m glad it falls on a weekend again this year. Maybe we’ll have a special Valentine’s Day brunch!!

Here are the topics Patty and Holly have thought of for Monthly Musings 2021.

Weekly Recap:

This has been a doozy of a week. I’ve been pretty tired and busy with school and the kids’ activities. So, I think I’m going to take tomorrow off from blogging.

Here are my posts from this week in case you missed one:

Monday Memes
January Books
What’s Up Wednesday

Make sure to check out the other ladies’ posts too!

Thanks so much for reading.

Posted in What's up Wednesday

What’s Up Wednesday

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello! It’s already the end of January, so I’m linking up with Shay and Sheaffer for their What’s Up Wednesday post!

WHAT WE ARE EATING THIS WEEK:

Per usual, I only cook Sunday-Thursdays. Here’s what we are eating this week:

  • Sunday: Shay’s Buffalo Ranch Chicken Tortilla Soup
  • Monday: Million dollar spaghetti and roasted broccoli
  • Tuesday: Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan, Trader Joe’s risotto, and fruit
  • Wednesday: Monday/Tuesday leftovers and bagged Caesar salad
  • Thursday: Shay’s Beefy Cornbread Casserole, rice/broccoli side
  • Friday and Saturday: take out!

WHAT I’M REMINISCING ABOUT:

I’m reminiscing about my itty bitty valentines…

Here they are in February 2015.

WHAT I’M LOVING:

I’m loving Hadley’s new Valentine’s Day sweatshirt that I ordered from MelandMae on Etsy. It’s so cute, and she loves wearing it.

I’m loving my new Kendra Scott bracelets. I love jewelry that can be worn with any outfit whether it’s workout clothes or dressed for school. Travis and the kids gave me the silver bracelet from Christmas, and then last week I used my birthday 50% off discount for the gold set of three bracelets. I’d never done that before, so I was excited to find something to go with the silver bracelet.

WHAT I’M WORKING ON:

I’m working on tomorrow’s Monthly Musings blog post (with Holly and Patty!). It’s the first MM of 2021!

WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO:

School for the kids, work/school for me (emails, emails emails, meetings…and Zoom appointments with students)…

Hayden is on two basketball teams, and Hadley attends dance two nights a week.

I finished 21Day Fix Extreme, and have started a new workout program: Muscle Burns Fat.

Also, is anyone else out there buying lottery tickets?! We rarely do, but when the jackpot gets close to $1 billion, I get greedy and tell Travis to pick up a few tickets!

WHAT I’M DREADING:

besides not winning the lottery?! 😂…Honestly, not much. It’s nice that the hustle and bustle of Christmas is over (not that we hustled or bustled as much as usual this year), and we can settle into the new year. I do have days where my Covid anxiety heightens, but I try to keep in mind that hopefully we are moving towards more of a sense of normalcy.

WHAT I’M EXCITED ABOUT:

Our KC Chiefs are headed to the Super Bowl!! We are so excited. I’m not a perfect parent, but one of my greatest accomplishments is instilling a love for my KC Royals and KC Chiefs in my kids…well, at least Hayden! That being said, Hadley will dress for any occasion!

WHAT I’M WATCHING/READING:

I shared the books I read in January yesterday, so check that post out!

I’ve been watching the new Real Housewives franchise: Salt Lake City! Apparently, it doesn’t matter where you live…there’s always drama 😉

I also started season 4 of The Crown, and I’m loving it! Now that Diana is in the picture, the story line is really moving!

WHAT I’M LISTENING TO:

…the rain as I type this post.

Also, I haven’t really been listening to podcasts lately, but Instagram stories will suck me in every time! I set a timer on my phone as to not waste too much time on social media.

WHAT I’M WEARING:

I went to Target for dry shampoo and a few things for Hadley, and I somehow left with this top and matching joggers for myself! Things just hop into my cart when I’m at Target!

I love both pieces, but I find that I tend to wear them separately more than together. I’m not a super matchy match person, I guess. Both are so soft and cozy and are perfect for wearing at home or running errands!

I’ve been wearing these three sweaters from Amazon on repeat since November.

{affiliate links for sweaters below}

I have this one in blue.

I have this cozy sweater in “wine red.” It’s so soft, and I love that I can wear it with leggings or jeans.

I wore it to school the other day with my favorite leopard flats.

And, I’ve shared this one before that I have in pink and navy blue. I probably wear this sweater the most of the other three. Of course, I have it in two colors, but I truly do love it. I purchased it in size medium after realizing size large was too big.

WHAT I’M DOING THIS WEEKEND:

I think I will put up my Valentine’s Day decor. I don’t do much anyway; I just add a few touches here and there.

Here’s a pic of last year’s Valentine’s Day dinner!

Also, Hayden has two basketball games on Saturday, but then we should have a pretty relaxing Sunday.

WHAT I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT MONTH:

I guess I’m looking forward to Valetine’s Day next month. I’ve already bought the kids a couple of things that I know they’ll like, and maybe Travis and I will be able to go out to dinner.

I also keep hoping for a good snowfall. Maybe February will bring that weather to Kentucky?!

I haven’t written a WUW post in a couple of months, so I was happy to join this link up today. Don’t forget to check out the other ladies’ posts as well!

Thanks so much for reading.

Posted in Books and Shows

January: What I’ve Been Reading

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello! Even though there are a few days left in January, I’m sharing the books I read this month. I’ve used the Good Reads app a bit in the past, but I’m trying to use it more frequently now. I even signed up for the 2021 Reading Challenge with a goal of reading 40 books this year. The past few years, I’ve read 40ish books, so I figured I could do that again in 2021…and maybe even read more!

For now, I think I’m going to change my What I’ve Been Reading format. While so many people ask me what books I’ve read, and I love reading, writing these posts kind of stressed me out for some reason.

For example, sometimes I’m cutting it close to finish a book before writing my post. Also, I struggle with not wanting to give anything major away when sharing about the characters and the plot.

Also, I’m not a book critic. haha I just want to share what I’m reading and get ideas on books to read from you all too!

So, I’m going to share Good Reads summaries, a few quick thoughts, and give a review based on one to five stars!

So, here we go! I’m off to a great start in 2021. I’ve already read four books, and they were all so different!

This month I read…

{ book photo linked to Amazon.}

American Dirt

Summary:

Lydia Quixano Pérez lives in the Mexican city of Acapulco. She runs a bookstore. She has a son, Luca, the love of her life, and a wonderful husband who is a journalist. And while there are cracks beginning to show in Acapulco because of the drug cartels, her life is, by and large, fairly comfortable.

Even though she knows they’ll never sell, Lydia stocks some of her all-time favorite books in her store. And then one day a man enters the shop to browse and comes up to the register with a few books he would like to buy—two of them her favorites. Javier is erudite. He is charming. And, unbeknownst to Lydia, he is the jefe of the newest drug cartel that has gruesomely taken over the city. When Lydia’s husband’s tell-all profile of Javier is published, none of their lives will ever be the same.

Forced to flee, Lydia and eight-year-old Luca soon find themselves miles and worlds away from their comfortable middle-class existence. Instantly transformed into migrants, Lydia and Luca ride la bestia—trains that make their way north toward the United States, which is the only place Javier’s reach doesn’t extend. As they join the countless people trying to reach el norte, Lydia soon sees that everyone is running from something. But what exactly are they running to?

Quick Thoughts:

This book had been on my reading list for quite some time, and I think I wondered if I would like it. Wow! I did. It was a POWERFUL read. I finished reading it within a week because I couldn’t put my Kindle down. I will say, I had dreams (borderline nightmares) a couple nights in a row while reading this. In the dreams, I was always with my kids in some kind of heavy situation where I had to make a decision for their safety. Needless to say, this book will stick with me (and I won’t be shocked if it’s one of my top 2021 reads!)

This was a quote that resonated with me:

“This is a cycle, she thinks. Every day a fresh horror, and when it’s over, this feeling of surreal detachment. A disbelief, almost, in what they just endured. The mind is magical. Human beings are magical.”

Told ya…heavy stuff!

Rating:

Make Life Beautiful

Summary:

For the one million-plus followers who turn to Syd and Shea McGee for advice on building a beautiful home and life, Make Life Beautiful is a behind-the-scenes look into how the couple transformed Shea’s small room of fabric samples and big dream of becoming a designer into one of the most successful and fastest-growing interior design businesses in the country.

Both long-time and new fans will not only gain insight into how the McGees built such a successful company but also be inspired to apply design principles to their lives.

Inspirational topics include:

*Renovate your life
*Visualize the outcome
*Listen to your gut
*Elevate the everyday

Quick Thoughts:

I love Syd and Shea’s Netflix show: Dream Home Makeover, so I was very interested in their life, how they grew their business, and their design process. I loved how the book was organized by alternating between Shea and Syd’s point of view. They just shared some very exciting news on Instagram: They are expecting baby #3 in the summer!

Rating:

What Happens in Paradise

Summary:

A year ago, Irene Steele had the shock of her life: her loving husband, father to their grown sons and successful businessman, was killed in a helicopter crash. But that wasn’t Irene’s only shattering news: he’d also been leading a double life on the island of St. John, where another woman loved him, too.

Now Irene and her sons are back on St. John, determined to learn the truth about the mysterious life — and death — of a man they thought they knew. Along the way, they’re about to learn some surprising truths about their own lives, and their futures.

Lush with the tropical details, romance, and drama that made Winter in Paradise a national bestseller, What Happens in Paradise is another immensely satisfying page-turner from one of America’s most beloved and engaging storytellers.

Quick Thoughts:

I loved the first book in this series, I loved this one, and I can’t wait to read the third (and final) book in the series. The characters, the setting, and the plot all hit the spot for me and have kept me hooked when reading this series. I’m a big fan of Elin Hilderbrand, and I love following her on Instagram.

Rating:

Piece of My Heart

Summary:

In the latest thrilling collaboration from #1 New York Times bestselling author and “Queen of Suspense” Mary Higgins Clark and Alafair Burke, television producer Laurie Moran must solve the kidnapping of her fiancée’s nephew—just days before her wedding.

Television producer Laurie Moran and her fiancée, Alex Buckley, the former host of her investigative television show, are just days away from their mid-summer wedding, when things take a dark turn. Alex’s seven-year-old nephew, Johnny, vanishes from the beach. A search party begins and witnesses recall Johnny playing in the water and collecting shells behind the beach shack, but no one remembers seeing him after the morning. As the sun sets, Johnny’s skim board washes up to shore, and everyone realizes that he could be anywhere, even under water.

A ticking clock, a sinister stalker, and fresh romance combine in this exhilarating follow up to the bestselling You Don’t Own Me—another riveting page-turner from the “Queen of Suspense” Mary Higgins Clark and her dazzling partner-in-crime Alafair Burke. 

Quick Thoughts:

I know Mary Higgins Clark has written a ton of books, but this may be the first one that I’ve read by her?! I have read The Better Sister by Alafair Burke and enjoyed it. I read this book in a matter of days. It’s a super quick read with short chapters. As a reader, I enjoyed the organization of the plot with pieces of Laurie’s past combined with her present day life to move the action forward. Also, the book reads with a sense of urgency due to the focus on finding Laurie’s fiancée’s nephew, so it can’t help but be a page turner!

Rating:

So those are my January books!

I made graphics for 3, 2, and 1 stars as well. That being said, I get so many books based off of other bloggers who read or suggestions from you all, so I’m assuming I won’t have many (or any?!) 2 or 1 star reviews. Only in the past few years as a reader have I gotten to the point where I won’t force myself to finish a book if I don’t like it! I finally realized that my reading list is so long that I might as well move on to another book on my list if I’m not enjoying what I’m reading! 😉

I hope one of these books is of interest to you! What have you been reading lately?

Happy Reading!

{ this post contained Amazon affiliate links…}

Posted in Memes

January Monday Memes

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Monday! How was your weekend? Per usual, we had a busy Saturday and a more low key Sunday.

Saturday was filled with errands and two basketball games for Hayden. By Saturday evening, I felt like I’d hit a wall and was tired, achy, and even had a sore throat. I’m guessing the vaccine was starting to kick in? I was asleep by 9:30 on Saturday and felt a bit better Sunday morning. After church, I changed back into pajamas, ate soup for lunch, took an over two hour nap!

Then, it was time to cheer for the our Chiefs! …

who are headed to the Super Bowl!

Obviously, the weekend ended on a high note!

So, since it’s almost the end of January…(how is that even possible?!), I’m sharing some of my favorite memes from this month.

When I do my monthly meme post, I add to the post as the month goes on when I find funny memes. I thought I had this post pretty much wrapped up until…

Bernie and his mittens happened! So I had to share a few of my faves Bernie memes too!

Bernie:

1.

I feel this deeply, y’all! Hadley is in the midst of cookie sales. She’s actually already surpassed her goal of 390 boxes! With no booth sales at Kroger this year (and just Covid restrictions in general), I wasn’t sure how she’d do. I helped her make a video to share with family, friends (and Facebook!), so that’s helped her meet her goal. Now we are just waiting on the cookies, so we can safely deliver them. Hayden wants his Lemonade cookies, STAT!

The kids will be surprised because I actually placed a small order to be shipped to the house while we wait on the bigger orders to come in. I’ve been so impressed with our out of town fam and friends receiving their orders in a matter of days! Real talk: I want my Peanut Butter Patties as much as Hayden wants his Lemonade cookies.

2.

and this…

3.

Of course, Bernie had to hang with my favorite ladies!

4.

Sophia and Bernie are quite a match!

My gma sent me this one 🙂
5.

As much as I love my GGs, the Big Bang Bernie meme is the best.

6.

and…teacher memes for the win!

And I can’t find it but there was a meme of Bernie on the school playground with a caption about “teachers on playground duty.” haha 😂

And now…on to…

First of the Year Funnies:

7.

Dorothy speaks the truth!

8.

While this one made me laugh, I still love January for a fresh start!

9.

Surely 2021 just started off rough and will get its act together.

I had a lot of memes this month thanks to the help of social media and Bernie. This post basically wrote itself. 😂

Ok…let me end on one very recent favorite Bernie meme:

Go Chiefs!

I hope these provide a laugh or two to start your week!

Take care,

Posted in Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites {#52}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Friday! We’ve had a pretty good week around here! Of course, it helps that we started the week off with no school on Monday 😉 That being said, the week was pretty routine with school, work, and kids’ activities.

As always, I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea for this week’s Friday Favorites.

I decided to format my post a bit differently and share a favorite thing (or two) from each day this week. I thought it would be nice to appreciate the big and little things of our daily life.

Sunday

I started Sunday paying tribute to the Queen’s birthday with my favorite mug. Happy birthday to Betty White #99!

Then, we were all excited to see the Chiefs pull out a division win despite Mahomes getting injured.

Homer had his game face on as well as his Chiefs swag!

Monday

On Monday, we enjoyed the extra day off of the three day weekend. We were LAZY all morning. Finally, around 11:30 we got moving but still didn’t do much!

Hadley decided to start her cross stitch craft which was a blast from the past for me. I used to love cross stitching as a kid.

Tuesday

While I miss being at school, I do love having more time to eat lunch. While home for lunch, I tend to put together a variety of snack plates! Tuesdays are my low carb eating days, and I love loading up on cheese, and …

these Marcona Almonds from Trader Joe’s. Y’all, they are SO good!

Wednesday

On Wednesday, Hadley was excited to wear her new sweatshirt. She had a Valentine’s Day sweatshirt that she wore for almost four years! Finally, last year, I told her it was time to retire it. I found this one on Etsy from MelandMae’s shop! I got her a women’s small, so she will be able to wear it for a couple of years 😉

Thursday

This week was a big week around here! Teachers in our area started getting the first dose of the vaccine. I scheduled my appointment for yesterday morning. The vaccine clinic was being held at Kroger Field.

I was in and out in 25 minutes (and that’s only because they had us wait 15 minutes after the vaccine to make sure we didn’t have a reaction). I was so impressed with the efficiency of the appointment! One of my friends joked that the people at Chick-fil-a must have been in charge of organizing the distributions!

I arrived home after going to school and checked the mail. Hadley received two post cards from her principals praising her for her good work and great grades. She made the Principal’s List. After reading the postcards, she immediately burst into tears, and said, “I just want to go back to school!” My heart broke for her. She loves school and being with her peers and teachers.

I did tell her today was the first day I felt cautiously optimistic about a return to in person school in the somewhat near future.

Favorite Kid Quote(s):

On Monday, Hadley told me she was going out to ride her bike. I said, “Wearing your pajama pants?” Her response was, “Hey! Don’t come at me!” 😂

Then, on Tuesday, Hayden was watching the Missouri basketball game with me. He’s mentioned before that some of the players seem to have “been there forever.” (Since we live in the land of ‘one and done,’ four years must feel like forever.) Anyway, he said the Mizzou team is “loyal to the soil.” I couldn’t help but laugh.

Favorite Mom Meme:

Trrrruuuueeee!

Favorite Funny:

I was in the middle of my workout on Tuesday morning, so I asked Travis to wake up the kids. He did so by blaring some kind of Run DMC remix while walking into each kid’s room! When they didn’t get moving after a few minutes, I think he started playing the UK fight song! Needless to say, they kids were annoyed! Tuesday night, they made sure to ask me to wake them up on Wednesday morning! 😆

Bonus Fave: Flashback Friday

I love this snow pic from January 2016! The kids wore those froggy hats for a couple of years, and I love them so much!

While we’ve been fortunate to have some snow on the ground this year (We even had a white Christmas!), I sure hope we get a good snow or two that’s deep enough for some sledding fun and snowman building!

I love January because it’s a fresh start, and I enjoy being cozy in my house. By mid-February, I’m ready for spring!

Weekly Recap:

Here are my posts from this week in case you missed one!

Monday Meals: SLoppy Joes
Tuesday Talk: Word of the Year
Thursday Thoughts: 3 month Surgery Update

So that’s a little bit about what’s been going on around here. How was your week? Do you have any big weekend plans? Hayden has a couple of basketball games, and then Sunday we’ll go to church and then cheer for the Chiefs!

I hope you have a great weekend.

Posted in Me, Thursday Thoughts

Thursday Thoughts: 3 month surgery update

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello! Today, I’m sharing my three month update after having my total hysterectomy in October. The short version is that all is well, I’m so happy I did it, and the recovery was a bit quicker than I thought it would be.

That being said, I love this quote from Brene Brown:

First, here’s my original post from October.

And… here are a few details about my recovery process and easing into a new normal:

I stayed one night in the hospital and came home about 24 hours after my surgery. My recovery was slow and steady. It was difficult for me to slow down and give myself some time to rest, but I knew that’s what I needed to do. So, that meant asking for help, accepting help, taking some time off work, and reminding myself to take it day by day.

My abdomen with three small incisions was the main issue with soreness for the first 10 days or so. Walking around actually felt good, but sitting or lying down made me realize how much I use those abdominal muscles. The first couple of nights, I slept propped up, but then I was able to sleep on my side with a few pillows for support. I’m a side sleeper, so that was of great relief for me when I was able to get comfortable on my side.

I didn’t really need pain medication. As I mentioned in my first post, I followed doctor’s orders with taking them for the first couple days, but then Tylenol/Ibuprofen did the trick.

I had follow up appointments with my doctor at two weeks and seven weeks. (I was supposed to see her at six weeks, but they called me to reschedule it.) My annual exam (yes, you still go to those even minus some lady parts) was also scheduled for that day, so it all worked out. After that appointment, I was cleared to start working out again, and I felt ready to get back doing so. Up until that point, I had just been walking to get some steps in and burn a few calories. I was happy to start doing more cardio and weights!

I wasn’t supposed to drive for the first two weeks, so that was an adjustment. Travis was basically a super star Uber driver!

I was very tired the first 3-4 weeks. Very tired. After about three weeks, I definitely took a turn for the better with my energy level and stamina. That being said, I did over do it a few times. I just would wake up feeling pretty normal and kind of plug along with my day at a regular pace until late afternoon when I would feel a little achy and exhausted.

By six weeks, I felt so much better. I’m just a tired person. I can take a nap most any day! So, now I’m back to my normal tired rather and exhausted tired… 😆

Prior to my surgery, I was having daily cramping, lower back pain, abdominal discomfort and bloat. All of those issues are gone now. I’m still looking for my abs, but I’m glad to be able to do some crunches w/o having pain, bloat, and exhaustion afterwards!

For hormone replacement, I use an Estrogen patch to delay menopause. I change the patch once a week, so that’s just another alarm I set on my phone as a reminder 😂 I haven’t had any night sweats or whatever else comes with menopause, so I guess the patch is working!

While it took some time to come to peace with the decision to have the surgery, I am very glad I did it. I continue to be thankful to have been able to make the decision on my own and at my own time. While I feel at peace, I still have some lingering sadness about my journey and struggles through the years. It feels odd to have closed that chapter of my life. My struggles with infertility, miscarriage, and endometriosis were a part of my life for so long, that some of the “I wish I could have..” or “What might have been..” still linger. I know some people can just move on, but I also had so many share with me to take the time to “grieve” that chapter of my life.

So that’s my update! Again, I just know I learned so much when Shay shared her experience and updates, and writing these posts has been a form of journaling for me which is an added bonus in recovery and therapeutic as well.

Let me know if you have any questions. I hope you are having a great week!

Posted in Me, Tuesday Talk

Tuesday Talk

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

I can’t believe it’s already the third week of January! This month is definitely flying by. I believe Erika and Ashley are still doing their Tuesday Talk link up this year, so today is the day.

I’ve seen people share about their Word of the Year, and then I saw this on the good ol’ gram…

As I’ve mentioned before, I’m a 5w6, so “embody” and “yes” would be the words for my Enneagram type. To be honest, while these words are fine, I’m feeling more like a 1 (progress over perfection), or a 7 (quality over quantity). Honestly, I could embrace a 5’s embody (a daily practice) because I’m pretty good at that. Consistency and routine are strong suits of mine, so embodying a daily practice would certainly be in my nature. As far as saying “yes,” to new experiences, well, I probably should do that but already feel overwhelmed from the “yes” I say to every day experiences 😉

When I started this year, I shared my 2021 goals in a blog post, but choosing a word for the year is something I’d like to do as well.

So, self-care was a word that popped into my mind almost immediately. Through the years, I’d gotten to where I felt guilty putting myself first. #andallthemomssaidamen That being said, about four years ago, I turned a corner and made my physical health a priority with a focus on whole food nutrition and exercise. I also started getting monthly facials (or other treatments) and buying quality skincare products to include in my daily routine.

As I’ve previously shared, my endometriosis was an issue for the past few years, and really interfered with my physical health. I’m feeling so much better post-hysterectomy, so I’ve started working out again. Whole food nutrition is a priority again as well as I try to get back on track with healthy eating and working out. I will continue to have my “me” time in the morning which is paramount for my mental health as well.

So, while I will get back on track and continue with self-care, I also want to just start (from where I am). To me, start is the perfect word for where I am currently in my life. I want to start over with my fitness and nutrition. Also, time is absolutely flying by, and I want to start being more intentional with my time with Travis and the kids. I also have other goals that I want to start working on in regards to this blog.

I want to continue to grow as a mom, as a wife, as a teacher, as a friend, and so on. To do that, self-care and starting from where I am, are perfect words for me to focus on in 2021.

What about you? What’s your word for 2021?

Make sure to check out the other ladies’ posts too, and thanks so much for reading!

Posted in Meals and Recipes

Monday Meals

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and Happy Monday! How was your weekend? We had a good one. Hayden had a basketball game Friday night. On Saturday, I had lunch out with a couple friends and then got a massage; yesterday, we went to church. We ended the weekend cheering for our KC Chiefs. I think Hayden’s blood pressure may still be off the charts! 😆 We were very excited for the win. Now, today is a bonus day off!

It’s been a minute since I’ve shared a recipe (or two) that my family loves, so that’s what I’m doing today. Again, I don’t really create recipes; I’m just really good at following directions.

One of my kids’ favorite dinners is Sloppy Joes.

Fun fact: Growing up, we had a big fish tank in our living room with a few fish. We named our two Oscar fish “Sloppy” and “Joe,” because that’s what we were eating for dinner the day we got them!

Of course, the recipe on the can is easy enough, but after I bought Shay’s Simmers cookbook, I started using her recipe, and we all love it. I’m team “dinner in the slow cooker” as much as possible. I think my favorite part of her recipe is the yellow mustard.

Then, Andrea shared her Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cup recipe, and now that recipe is a staple at our house too.

Sloppy Joe Biscuit Cups:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 can Sloppy Joe sauce
  • I can biscuits
  • shredded Cheddar cheese

Instructions:

  • I turn the biscuits on their side and cut them in half, so they are thinner, and then put them into a lightly greased muffin tin. (The first time I made them and didn’t grease the pan, they seemed to stick!)
  • Brown the ground beef and drain.
  • Add in the sauce and let simmer for a few minutes.
  • Then, I spoon a bit of the beef sauce into each biscuit and top with a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
  • I bake them for about 12-15 minutes at 375 degrees.
  • Enjoy!
Ready to eat!

Also for dinner this week:

Here’s our dinner menu this week:

  • Sunday: Taco soup (I will share the recipe soon)
  • Monday: Baked chicken thighs, Bob Evans mashed potatoes, fruit
  • Tuesday: Leftover chicken, bagged Caesar salad
  • Wednesday: Instant Pot Lazy Lasagna, roasted broccoli
  • Thursday: Leftover lasagna and green beans
  • Friday and Saturday: take out, I’m sure!

I love these two Sloppy Joe recipes that are a spin on a classic! What are you having for dinner this week?

Take care,

Posted in Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites {#51}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and Happy Friday! This week seemed to take forever, so I’m definitely ready for the weekend. Overall, we had a great week of school, work, activities, and (my) birthday dinner + cookie cake.

I’m linking up with Andrea and Erika for this week’s Friday Favorites post.

Favorite Moment:

There’s nothing like Facebook on your birthday. I also received so many texts and a few phone calls, so I appreciated the birthday love. I’ve always been a big birthday person, and try to make those days special for others. It’s nice to feel the love in return.

The four of us went to dinner last night, and it was so nice. We went to one of my favorite places. Typically, it’s a place just Travis and I that would probably go, but Travis and I went out last Saturday, so I let the kids tag along last night. Obviously, eating out is a luxury these days, but I’m thankful for that experience.

Also, Hadley took it upon herself to text my friends and family asking for birthday wishes. She put the clips together, and the final product video left me teary eyed. I definitely feel blessed.

Favorite Pic:

Dinner with Trav and the kids last night!

Favorite Kid Quote:

I was just telling a friend this story recently, and then it popped up on Facebook. January 13, 2013, and Hadley was tossing folded clean clothes out of the laundry basket. I asked her what she was doing, and she said, “I’m looking for my damn pants.”

That story has always reminded me of Scout from To Kill a Mockingbird when, at dinner, she says,”Pass the damn ham, please!” 😂

Also, this week, Hadley got braces (for the second, and final time!), and she continuously asks me if she has something in her teeth which cracks me up.

Favorite Food:

The week started off strong with Shay’s Easy Skillet Enchiladas! We all loved them!

Then, of course, I’d say last night’s dinner was amazing followed by cookie cake!

Favoriting Clothing item:

I’ve had these leopard flats from Nordstrom saved in my favorites on the app for over a year. They’ve been on sale before but previously haven’t had my size. I so happened to click around in the app before Christmas, and saw they had my size, and they were on sale! I went ahead and purchased them. I really like them! (I wear a 9, and sized up to a 9.5 since the toe is pointy, and they fit perfectly)

Other faves:

Our church has remained closed for now, but Hadley and I went to a nearby church on Sunday. It felt good to go to an in person service.

*the people in this row are not as close as they appear 😉

I’d mentioned that I’d like a Dutch oven, and my Gma came through with one for me as my birthday present this year! I’ve been using it since Christmas and love it so much.

Another favorite gift was from one of my friends who left a present on my porch! My skin has been so dry, and I love this whipped body butter. I’d never tried Buff City Soap products, and this body butter is heavenly!

I guess I can’t call them a favorite just yet since I haven’t tried them, but my Mani Me custom fit stick on gel nails arrived this week. My gel manicure from a couple weeks ago is still looking pretty good, but I can’t wait to try these.

Mom meme:

I feel this deeply, y’all!

Bonus Fave: Flashback Friday

Thanks to Facebook Memories…January 2010. The kids were about six weeks old. I’m a sucker for a black and white photo of itty bitty babies.

January 2010

Weekly Recap:

Here are this week’s posts in case you missed one!

Not Just a Mom
Let’s Look
Day in the Life

Thanks so much for reading! Don’t forget to check out the other ladies’ posts.

I hope you have a great weekend! I know that I’m excited to not set an alarm on Monday!

Take care,

Posted in Day in the Life

Day in the Life

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello! How’s it going? This week has seemed to last a lifetime for some reason. I’m so tired….and the kids are too. I guess we are still adjusting to back to school life.

The good news is…today is my birthday! Hadley is trying to convince me to let us all take the day off, but I told her we’d power through and celebrate later.

Today I’m sharing a Day in the Life post. I love when others do these posts, and I haven’t done one in a long time. I chose Monday, January 11th when planning out my January blogs, and I assumed that it should be just a typical day…and it pretty much was!

That being said, it’s surprisingly difficult to remember to take pictures throughout the day….at least for me it is! Anyway, here’s how I spent this past Monday.

Monday, January 11, 2021

I woke up around 6:30. When I’m tired and struggle to get out of bed in the morning, I remind myself that during a normal school year, I get up twice a week at 5:20 to work out or get up at 6:00 otherwise! I do think I’m going to start aiming for a 6:15 wakeup call to start moving back towards reality.

From 6:40-7:20 I drank my coffee, scrolled Instagram, and read my favorite blogs. I love my quiet time in the morning. Homer usually joins me!

At 7:25, I woke the kids up and made their breakfast…waffle for Hayden (he likes to dip it in syrup), and English muffin with peanut butter for Hadley.

I finished packing lunches,

Homer wondered what he was having for breakfast, and …

I found Hayden back in bed…The Monday struggle was real!

I washed my face, made my bed and got dressed.

morning skincare

While the kids finished getting ready, I sorted the their clean laundry, so they could put it away after school.

Then, it was time to take the kids to the school pod.

I came back home, checked and responded to emails, and finished getting ready for the day.

I went to school from 9:30 to around 2:00. I was so productive at school which is always a good feeling!

Then, I had a quick errand for an Amazon return at the UPS store before heading home.

Homer was excited to see me!

I ate lunch around 2:15, checked emails, and then

picked the kids up from school!

Once we got home and settled, I checked and responded to more emails, had Zoom appointments with students and finished up at around 4:15.

Then, I ordered this sweatshirt for Hadley. She had a Valentine’s Day sweatshirt that she wore for four years before finally outgrowing it last year. So, this one will probably last her a few years as well!

Then, I took some time to respond to blog comments and read other posts since it was the first Not Just a Mom link up of 2021!

Then, I took some photos to prep for Wednesday’s Let’s Look post.

After that, I had Hadley answer questions, so I could submit them for Dance Spotlight at her studio.

I finally got to do my workout at 5:15.

Then, I took Hadley to dance because Travis was working late.

I came home and made dinner. Shay’s Easy Skillet Enchiladas were a hit! I’d never made this recipe of hers before, and it’s definitely going into the dinner rotation!

Then, I caught up with Travis about our day and finally completed the Amazon Associate info and figured out how to share links (I think!)

Around 8:00, it was time to pick up Hadley. Before doing so, I stopped by Walgreens to pick up Ibuprofen because Hadley was getting braces next day.

After picking up Hadley, I warmed up her dinner, and she showed us the dances her competition team is working on. (post-dance class tradition!) haha

Finally, it was time for a shower and PM skin care routine.

I was so tired! It was definitely a busy Monday. The kids went to bed around 9:15, and by 9:30 I was reading my book.

I could barely keep my eyes open, so I didn’t read for long. I decided to watch an episode of my favorite show with my favorite ladies before falling asleep around 10:15.

So, that was my Monday! Overall, it was a pretty average and good day…for a Monday!

See you back here tomorrow for Friday Favorites.

Take care,