Author: jgalvinwhite

Posted in Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites {#192}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Friday!

TGIF! Well, I made it through this four day work week…It was a good one but weird. Besides getting back in the swing of things after being off for a week, my room was used for testing this week, so I was “displaced” from my room. I’m tired of carrying my stuff around. Also, the kids’ activities are in full swing, so we had some busy nights as well.

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

Here are some favorites from the week:

Snow! The snow we got last Thursday to Friday was so pretty.

This week, we’ve had nothing but rain, so all the snow is gone now.

“How bout those Chieeefffsss?!”

My house was pretty happy with the divisional win on Sunday…and now we get to cheer for the Chiefs in the AFC championship this weekend.

I don’t think I’ve ever made the Trader Joe’s Blondie Bars…

….but I made them last week, and they were so good. I went to Trader Joe’s this week, and I already picked up a couple more boxes.

Hadley is really loving club volleyball so far. This is our first time doing club, and while it’s a commitment, it’s pretty low key compared to other volleyball clubs. She has great coaches and has had so much fun playing with friends.

My #14!

We love watching her team play. Hayden even came for the games on Sunday 😉

These girls took 2nd in the gold bracket last weekend which is amazing!

And…it’s school basketball season for Hayden.

As he walked out the door for his first game on Monday, I kind of did a double take…Why does it look like he could drive himself there?

It’s hard to get action shots in kids’ sports…but #33 is my favorite when he’s on the court.

Favorite Kid Quote:

I told Hadley that I’d read a People magazine article about Trader Joe’s 2024 most popular products and that her favorite Chili and Lime Rolled Corn Tortillas were the favorite snack. She said, “Obviously!” haha…She does love these things.

Favorite Mom Meme:

Hadley got a new Stanley for Christmas…and lost it at volleyball tournament a couple of weekends ago. Ugh.

Weekly Recap:

I can’t believe I’ve kept up with my Bloganuary posts, but I have. Here are my posts from the past week:

Bloganuary: Kroger
Bloganuary: All About Books
Day in the Life: Snow DAy
Tuesday Talk
Bloganuary: Homer
Monthly Musings

What are your weekend plans? Hadley has a volleyball tournament, and of course we’ll be cheering for the Chiefs on Sunday!

I will have a Share 4 Somethings post tomorrow.

Happy Friday,

Posted in Monthly Musings

Monthly Musings

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello!

I’m excited to link up with Patty and Holly for the first Monthly Musing of 2024!

This month’s topic is winter self-care.

Oh I’m all about self-care…but sometimes I wish I had more time for it.

1. How do you care for yourself in the winter?

Around December, my skin starts feeling so dry. While I could use body butter all year long, I typically use it the most during the winter months.

My morning quiet time is important to me year round, but I love it in the winter months too…feels extra cozy.

Exercise is another way I take care of myself year round, but during the winter, when it feels like I’m less active outside, I try to be intentional about getting workouts in.

I also try to enjoy a less hectic pace that the new year brings.

2. How do you fight the winter blues?

Honestly, my answers to #2 go along with #1 as well….especially my quiet time and exercise. Also, it’s easy to hunker down when the weather is cold and snowy, but I try to make a point to get out and run errands, grab a cup of coffee, make dinner plans, etc.

3. Tips for making your living space cozy.

Candles make everything cozy.

Last year, I bought a set of flameless candles, and have enjoyed them year round.

Also, this year I decided to keep out my pretty trees from Walmart at least until Valentine’s Day.

4. Suggestions for winter time activities

Well, the kids play outside and sled when it snows.

Hadley had fun ice skating with friends recently.

Honestly, my winter activity, when I have time, has been catching up on tv shows I want to watch.

5. Exercise routines in the winter

My exercise routine is mostly the same as what I do year round…Bodi workouts in my basement. That being said, if the temps are mild or not too cold, I try to go for walks when I can as well.

6. Tips for restful sleep

Well, I’m a high-maintenance sleeper. I like my weighted blanket and sound machine. I still swear by Olly melatonin when needed.

Also, I’m liking this Jergen’s essential oils stick. I put a bit on my wrists and neck after my evening shower.

7. Favorite warm beverage

Hadley likes to ask to go to Starbucks on Friday after school. I’ve tried the pistachio latte recently, and I like it.

In general, coffee is my favorite warm beverage.

8. Best winter skincare tips

I find that I need body butter when my skin is dry. Also, I make sure to use a bit more moisturizer for my morning and night time skin care routine.

I also continue my monthly facial appointments, and my skin feels so hydrated afterwards.

9. Flannel sheets: yes or no?

I love flannel pjs, but I think I’d get too hot if we used flannel sheets….so no.

10. Favorite winter pjs

Well, I could probably have an “all about pjs” post.

This season, I’ve purchased three new pairs of pj’s.

These are light weight and perfect to wear without getting hot. They run big, so size down.

Last year, I donated a few pairs of pjs at the end of winter, so this year I replenished my pjs supply with two new pairs of flannel pjs…one from Walmart and one from Victoria Secret.

This is such a fun link up to kick start the year!

Posted in Blog challenge, Homer

Bloganuary 1.24.24

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello!

Well, we survived the first day back. It was a good one, but we were all hungry and tired by the time we got home from school. It’s good to get back in a routine…at least that’s what I’m telling myself.

I saw this, and after a long day back to work, I had to laugh…

Anyway, I’m continuing on with the Bloganuary challenge…

…with this prompt today:

Before I jump into this post, I want to say, when I saw this prompt, I kind of rolled my eyes.

Last year, when I did the Bloganuary challenge, I felt like WordPress posed lots of great prompts.

I haven’t felt that way this year…but I’ve liked the “challenge” of posting every day, so I’ve shared my regular content as well as other prompts and some WordPress suggested ones.

So, I’m just going to roll with it because who doesn’t want to read about this sweet face?!

Also, I realized there hasn’t been much Homer content lately because, well, apparently when you are almost five years old, you behave…😆

No more stories of him running off (although, he still will if the front door isn’t shut all the way by accident), no more stories about him eating an entire cookie cake off the counter (but if there are crumbs on the counter, he will find them), and no more stories of him ruining pillows or shoe laces (but he will still snag a random item out of the trash can!)

Anyway, back to today’s prompt:

If we could make Homer understand one thing maybe it would be that we love him more than what’s probably normal? Actually, I think he probably knows that. We have so many nicknames for him, we all tell him goodbye when we leave, and of course he gets lots of cuddles…especially from Hadley.

So, really, I think I’d love for him to understand how helpful it would be for him to close the door when he comes inside. He asks to go out often, and then as soon as I sit down, whether it’s been three minutes or thirty, he comes inside only for me (or one of us) to have to go shut the back door. I guess we could probably teach him to nudge it closed…but it still wouldn’t be shut all the way.

Just a little dog owner “pet” peeve, I guess.

That minor inconvenience is worth it though! Just look at that face:

We feel lucky to have found Homer and have him as ours.

Posted in Blog challenge, Me

Tuesday Talk

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Tuesday!

Well, we’re finally headed back to school for the first time since January 12th! That sure is hard to believe! While I’ve enjoyed some time at home, we definitely need to get back into a routine.

Today, I’m linking up with Joanne for…

…and today I’m talking about this “by two” prompt:

Here’s an explanation for my answers:

  • 2 things I love: Coffee and books are two things that I love. It’s been many years since I can say I haven’t had at least one cup of coffee for teh day…and I can probably say the same thing about reading.
  • 2 names I like: When I was younger, I loved the names Lydia and Annie. It’s not that I didn’t like my name, but Jennifer was a popular name. My middle name is Ann, and sometimes I wished my name was Annie. I remember liking the name Lydia after seeing the movie Mrs. Doubtfire.
  • 2 things that scare me: I’m definitely not a fan of heights. Choking is a new fear. I actually choked a little over a year ago, and my friend saved the day with the Heimlich maneuver. Ever since then, I’m very cognizant of choking…and I’m always telling my kids to slow down when they eat! If Trav coughs, I immediately ask him if he’s choking. Like I need one more thing to worry about…haha
  • 2 careers I’ve considered: I’ve really never considered another career besides teaching. I do wish that I’d gotten a library science degree/certification. I would love to be in a library working with kids every day. My mom worked at the public library a couple days a week after she retired. Maybe I will do that one day? Also, ever since cookie decorating became popular, I’ve thought it would be fun to do. Again, I’m not thinking about a career change…but how fun would it be to make people happy by baking and decorating cute cookies? I’ve taken a few cookie classes for fun, and a lot of hard work goes into even one cookie!
  • 2 places I want to visit: Nantucket continues to be on my dream list to visit. I’ve been to London, but it was when I was in high school…and I really hope to go again and take the kids.
  • 2 accounts I love: Jen Reed (@thesisterstudioig) is just the most down to Earth woman to follow. She’s happy, encouraging, and supportive and just shares so much with her followers. Brittany Garcia (@kingdomofsequins) is so fun! She always starts her stories with “Hey girl!” and just has a bubbly personality. I could definitely be friends with both of those ladies (and they are friends in real life!)
  • 2 books I love: I took a deeper dive into books in Sunday’s “All About Books” post, and it’s difficult for me to choose two of my favorite books. That being said, Where the Crawdads Sing and Becoming Mrs. Lewis were the first two to pop into my mind.

What are two things you can tell me about yourself from this prompt?

Posted in Day in the Life

Day in the Life: Snow Day

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Monday!

How was your weekend? Ours was a good one…mostly filled with frigid temps and indoor volleyball. We capped off our weekend cheering for the CHIEFS! We are excited for that big divisional win!

Speaking of the weekend…did you catch my posts on Saturday and Sunday?

Today, I’m linking up with Sarah and Holly for…

….to share…

Snow day edition…

With an actual snow day on Friday…and no “non-traditional instruction,” I just decided on a whim to capture the day. I wasn’t sure what we had in store when I woke up a little after 8…but here’s how we spent our snow day.

I woke up and used my Jergens Awaken and then applied a face mask. I also used eye gels that are a new fave. I’ve used the gold ones on and off for years, and decided to try these “marine collagen” ones recently, and they a great too.

I checked out the snow, and it was so pretty. We actually got about five inches!

I couldn’t convince Trav to stay home, so off to work he went while I poured my first cup of coffee.

Then, I settled in to read blogs…

…and play my daily Bejewled Blitz.

Then, I washed off my face mask, and did my normal morning skin care routine.

Then, of course I made the bed.

I poured a second cup of coffee and had some breakfast. I don’t typically have breakfast, but last week, I decided to embrace a more leisurely lifestyle…and the cinnamon swirl bread is so good.

The kids didn’t have any assigned work since it was a snow day, but Hayden needed to complete a Spanish assignment from the day before. I haven’t taken Spanish in over twenty years, but I was some help to him!

Then, I worked on my Saturday blog post…

…before waking Hadley around 11:00.

Then, I read my daily Bible study.

Then, I moved on to some not so fun tasks. Last week, I tried to take advantage of more time at home to put up Christmas stuff, get organized, and tidy up around the house.

Our unfinished/laundry area needed a lot of attention. I decided to set a timer for 1 hour to just get it done.

Here’s what it looked like when I started:

Well, then the girls wanted to go sledding…and thankfully, Travis came home from work a bit early…just in time to drop them off.

One hour later and things looked so much better.

After cleaning, I finally sat down for a late lunch. I love having a plate full of random goodness.

Then, I did my workout. Last week, I worked out every day! By Friday, I was a little sore, so I thought yoga would be good to stretch a bit, and it was just what I needed. I did “Mobility Flow” from the Fire and Flow program on Bodi.

After my workout, I filled in my workout tracker. I’m making progress in January!

While I was working out, Travis dropped off Hayden and friends to go sledding. I figured they might want a treat when they got home, so I made Blondie Bars from Trader Joe’s.

While they baked, I watched another episode of Fool Me Once.

Then, I took the bars out of the oven…

….just as the boys got home and wanted to make snow cream.

Hadley had made some the other day when they were all home. I texted her because the boys had no clue what to do…her response is so funny.

After the peppermint extract incident (which actually probably would have been ok), they started over and made some good snow cream.

Then, I clicked around on Wallpops trying to decide on wall paper for Hadley’s room. There’s another one that Hadley likes, but this one was one of my favorites.

Is it even a snow day if I don’t get a little nap? I read for a bit before dozing off.

Then, I finished up my Saturday blog post.

I love being showered…hair washed and everything…by 6:00. Ahh…snow day perks. Hadley and I are both still big fans of shower steamers.

I even did my PM skin care routine early too.

Then, I collected things off the front porch…including Hayden’s frozen Crocs…haha

Around that time, Trav took Hadley to a friend’s house to spend the night and picked up pizza for dinner.

Then, Hayden went to a friend’s house, so Travis and I watched tv for a couple of hours.

Around 10:45, I went to pick up Hayden from his friend’s house.

Thankfully, the kids only needed to go to friends’ houses in the neighborhood.

Once we got home, it was time for bed!

Overall, it was a great day. A good old fashioned snow day was just what we needed on a cold and snowy Friday after a few consecutive days of online learning.

Guess what —we have another online learning day today! With the frigid temps, many of the side streets, including mine, are still slick and snow packed. With rain on the way and mild temps this week, I think the snow will finally be out of here soon.

I hope you have a great week.

{This post contains Amazon Affiliate links. Thanks for supporting my blog.}

Posted in Blog challenge, Books and Shows

Bloganuary 1.21.24

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Sunday!

Well, the days have started to run together this week, but it is the end of the weekend…and I have another Bloganuary post.

It’s no secret that reading is one of my favorite hobbies. Today, I’m sharing a few fun book graphics and my answers to an “All About Books” prompt.

I like to think that I’m “lives in the book shop/library” and “the bookworm.”

Pinterest/ @idotdoodle

Via Pinterest, I found this “All About Books” prompt…and here are my answers:

C/o Pinterest @glammtemplates
  • Favorite book: I remember everyone talking about Where the Crawdads Sing, and for whatever reason, I put off reading it. Once I started to read it on vacation a few summers ago, I couldn’t put it down. I wish I hadn’t waited so long to read it. I think the movie is pretty amazing too.
  • Book I regret reading: Travis asked me once if I ever start a book and don’t finish it…and I told him I used to never quit a book, but now I do if needed. There are so many books that I want to read, so I try not to feel like I “have” to read a book. Anyway, Block Party was a “hot” book this summer, and I trudged through it. I should have stopped reading when I wasn’t enjoying it, but since it was pretty popular, I kept reading…and I wasted time I could have spent on a good book.
  • Currently reading: I’ve had All the Light We Cannot See on my list for a while, but I finally made it a priority to read because I also want to watch it on Netflix! I’m enjoying, but it’s a long book…so I hope I can finish it soon.
  • Books I recommend: This varies based on the person or situation…but the Class Mom series is so funny, and Elin Hilderbrand is the queen of beach reads!
  • A book I can always reread: To Kill a Mockingbird is one that I could read over and over…and do thanks to my job! haha You would think that I would have read this book in high school, but I never did. The first time I read it was right before I taught the unit my first year teaching. Now, over twenty years later, I can say that I’ve read it at least 12-15 times. The past few years, the students I’ve worked with have read the graphic novel version.
  • Favorite genre: I used to like chick lit and light, easy reads. A few years ago, I really started enjoying historical fiction.
  • Least favorite genre: I do not like sci-fi or fantasy…books or movies.
  • Buy or borrow books? It’s pretty rare for me to buy a book. Again, since there are so many I’d like to read, I’m ok with being on the wait list at the library until it’s my turn to read a book. I do love buying books from time to time though.
  • Write a book someday? I don’t think that’s something I desire to do. I like being the author of Show Me and Sweet Tea. 😉
Pinterest @becauseallthebooks

What’s the best book you’ve ever read?

I will post this template from @glammtemplates on Instagram today. I’d love to know your answers…and don’t forget to tag me in your responses.

Have a great rest of your weekend!

Posted in Meals and Recipes

Bloganuary 1.20.24

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Saturday from snowy Kentucky.

We got about five inches of really pretty snow yesterday, and had a great snow day.

Today, I’m continuing with…

In the past, I’ve shared many Trader Joe’s hauls and even a few Aldi finds too.

Since Saturdays are typically when I pick up my Kroger Clicklist order, I got to thinking about some of the things that I buy every week. I’m sharing those with you today.

Clicklist has been doing the most for me for probably eight years or so…

Of course, I meal plan our dinners and plan a few of my school lunches. Those items tend to change week to week although I almost always pick up green beans, a bagged salad, eggs, and fruit.

The kids’ requests can vary as they go through phases of what they want to eat, but here are some things I every week….lately.

(and…of course, I’m typing this on a Friday when I don’t have all of the things on hand…so I turned to the Kroger app for pics too)

1. Cinnamon Swirl Bread

This has been Hadley’s favorite thing for the past couple of months. While I don’t typically eat breakfast, one slice is a nice afternoon snack. This week, while being home, I’ve decided to embrace the relaxed schedule, and I’ve had a slice with my coffee most mornings or as a part of my lunch.

2. Frozen Waffles

If Hayden’s not eating oatmeal or cream of wheat, he’s on a waffle kick. For quite a while, I bought Eggo chocolate chip waffles…and all of the sudden, they are nowhere to be found. So, we’ve transitioned to these cinnamon toast ones.

Sometimes, if I have a lazy dinner for myself, I have a waffle along with fruit and a hard boiled egg.

3. Chocolate Milk

I buy a few of these pints of chocolate milk every week for Hayden. He likes to drink one after he runs.

We also tend to have chocolate syrup on hand because Hadley likes to drizzle some on her vanilla ice cream. Hayden will also use it to make chocolate milk if we are out of the pints.

4. Adult Lunchable

I call these Oscar Mayer Naturals “adult lunchables” because sometimes I take them for a quick lunch option. Usually by Friday, this is what I’m having for lunch…or I sometimes have one on the weekends instead of being tempted by Chick-fil-A or Chipolte when I pick that up for the kids.

5. Grab the Gold Bar

These are my newest obsession. They are a good snack and good source of protein and fiber. Again, I oftentimes put one in my purse to eat on the go if needed.

6. Cheezits

When my dad visits, he opens the cabinet and questions if there’s a snack we won’t buy. haha

Also, of course, the kids like a variety of things. Hadley prefers White Cheddar Cheezits, and Hayden likes original. Both kids (and me!) like this snack mix kind, so we buy it the most.

Another favorite of the kids is the colorful goldfish…and I love Dots pretzels.

7. Baked Potato

Whoever invented this seven minute microwaveable baked potato is a genius. I buy one or two a week to have as a side for dinner or for lunch. Usually, I just eat half of one, and it’s easy for me to take for lunch.

8. Bob Evans Mashed Potatoes

Well, I know who invented these…and thank you Bob! There is no easier or delicious side dish than these microwave mashed potatoes.

9. Ramen

Hadley is going to thrive in college because she loves ramen. These are a great weekend lunch for her or even something to eat if dinner isn’t ready, and she has to head to practice…(and then she eats dinner when she gets home)

10. Premier Protein Shakes

I’m always working on finding ways to get more protein in, and these shakes have 30g each. I usually buy a pack every week…and sometimes a couple of packs if Hayden wants them too.

11. Drink Flavor Packets

Fun fact about me: I will drink more water if it’s flavored. I’m still filling up my tumbler at least twice a day to get my water in. I only use one flavor packet a day…usually I fill up my tumbler and add one packet, and then add more water after drinking about half. This grape flavor is my favorite.

12. Ice cream

We buy ice cream every week. Even though I have a sweet tooth, I can say no to ice cream at home. We’re to the point where I typically buy two cartons, and the family fave tends to be Oreo/cookies and cream.

Lately, if I want ice cream, I have one of these Kind ice cream bars that I find at Target, and I feel better about my choices 😉

What are some of your “go to” grocery items?

Posted in Friday Favorites, Uncategorized

Friday Favorites {#191}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Friday!

Well, what a week…We had a three day weekend that turned into a week with no school. Well, Tuesday-Thursday were online learning days, but today, with fresh snow and a chance of some ice, we have a good old fashioned snow day!

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

Here are some favorites from the week:

Well…ask, believe, and receive!

It’s not that we got that much snow, but we did get 3-4 inches and frigid temps. My road is still snow packed from Monday’s snow. Then, last night, the snow started up again.

I do appreciate snow days and the extra time off that we’ve had.

It’s been nice knowing ahead of time that we don’t have school, so we don’t have to set alarms in the morning.

While I’ve had school responsibilities, of course, it’s been nice to fall into an at home routine. I’ve had more time to sip my coffee, read, get a workout in, and watch some tv while also juggling school, kids’ activities, and their schoolwork.

On Tuesday, I made the kids “snowman” pancakes for breakfast. They turned out pretty cute:

This is kind of a random Amazon find, but I bought this Jergens “Awaken” essential oils stick after seeing it pop up on my Amazon feed. I’ve put a bit on my wrists and neck every morning, and it’s a really refreshing scent to help wake me up. I’m waiting on the “Sleep” one to arrive. I will let you know how it is once I get it.

One perk of snow days is lunch at home. I love a plate filled with random things for lunch. A new find that I’ve been trying are these “Just Crack an Egg” scramble kits. I’ve tried a couple different ones, and they are so good.

Last week, I made a stop at Walmart and saw this chenille hooded cardigan. I’ve been wanting something to wear around the house (not that you can’t wear this out and about…and now I have given the leisurely week I’ve had), but that isn’t a robe. Even though I love pjs, I get hot, so I usually sleep in a t-shirt and pj pants. So, this is perfect to throw on in the morning or after a workout…as seen below.

It’s in the junior department, so I sized way up to 2XL for a more over-sized fit.

Travis and I finished The Night Agent this week, and we LOVED it.

I’ve also started Fool Me Once, and it’s gotten my attention.

Favorite Kid Quote

Hadley noticed my new pjs and I just looked at her surprised…although I don’t know why because she always notices anything new. Without missing a beat she said, “You can’t be a slick chick with me.” 😆 She is so quick-witted and funny….wonder where she gets that?! 😉

Did I need another pair of pjs? Probably not. That being said, I got them for $20 (with a code), and with snow on the ground, I can’t be stopped with my decisions on flannel pjs!

Favorite Mom Meme:

You’re welcome, kids!

Bonus Fave: Flashback Friday:

Oh this snow day memory from 2014. Pinchy cheek cute and very creative with their snowman skills.

Weekly Recap:

Here are my posts from the week…including ones from last weekend:

Winter Movies
Bloganuary: Childhood Toy
Hello Monday
The Perfect Snow Day
Let’s Look
Thursday Thoughts

What are your weekend plans? Well, we have more winter weather on the way and bitterly cold temps too. Hadley has a volleyball tournament, so most of our weekend will be spent indoors watching her play.

I hope to keep up with my month of blogging, so I will post more over the weekend.

Stay warm!

Posted in Blog challenge, Thursday Thoughts

Thursday Thoughts

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Thursday!

I hope you’ve been able to stay warm this week. I know many of us are dealing with winter weather…and we are on NTI day #3 around here.

Today, for…

…I’m continuing with….

Besides WordPress ideas for blogging topics, I have a few ideas saved on Pinterest. One journal prompt was:

Favorite part of my evening.

Is there anything better than getting home after a long day and getting settled for the night?

Today, I’m sharing my top five favorite parts of my evening.

Not counted in the count, but something I love is when I get home, and I know that I don’t have to go back out. Of course, we’re in a busy season of life, so a night at home is a rarity and a treat. If that’s the case, then these five things really apply:

Pajamas!! Now, many times I get home from school, change into workout clothes, and head to the basement for my workout. Even workout clothes are a nice change from wearing school clothes, but as soon as I can put on my pjs and slippers, I’m a happy camper.

Leftovers for dinner! While I love cooking, it’s so nice to just pull a meal out of the fridge to warm up for everyone. Often times, even if we have leftovers, I still add something new to the meal like rolls, salad, or green beans.

Family dinner/everyone is home!

Again, being in a busy season with all of the kids’ activities, we don’t get to eat dinner together every night. So, the two to three nights a week that we are able to do so mean so much to me. That’s one of those “mom things” that I don’t think the kids know that parents appreciate.

I can’t remember if I’ve shared this, but the kids have Language Arts class together this year…and this semester, they have Tech Ed together too. While Hayden doesn’t share as much, Hadley usually has funny stories or the kids end up falling into a conversation about school or the classes they have together, and it’s nice to hear about their day…even if they don’t always like to give us all the details. haha

Hot shower/skin care! Usually right after dinner, I take my evening shower, do my nightly skincare, and put those pjs (back?) on.

I’m still loving a shower steamer when I remember to throw one in the shower. I’m still using body butter, and the Candy Cane one from Trader Joe’s is my favorite this season.

Then, of course, I like washing my face and using my Dime Beauty products along with a few other things. It’s nice to have a clean face that’s ready for bed.

Reading! Once we got back to school, I didn’t have as much time to read. That being said, there are many nights that I scroll my phone for a few minutes, so now I’ve decided to be a bit more intentional about reading time.

When I read on my Kindle, I always read before bed, but if I’m reading a book, that’s harder to do…because Travis is ready for me to turn the lamp off.

Anyway, for the past week, I’ve been reading this book and making sure to read for 20-30 minutes after my shower which has been nice to do.

If Travis and I have time to watch a show together, that’s always good too. We just finished The Night Agent two nights ago, and we loved it. It’s been a long time since we’ve “binge watched” a show together.

Many times, we’ll watch Kentucky or Missouri basketball games too. He’s lucky to have a wife that loves sports…haha

I’ve also started Fool Me Once, and I’m almost finished with The Crown. While those are shows just I watch, it’s nice to have an evening at home to watch them.

What’s your favorite part of your evening?

Posted in Home Updates, Let's look

Let’s Look

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello!

The month of January is flying by…and it’s already time for Let’s Look with Erika and Shay.

This is one of my favorite link ups, and this month we’re looking at…how we clean our closets.

I know I’m not the only one, but once the new year hits, I’m ready to purge the pantry, closets, and drawers…and it’s a great time to get organized.

About a year and a half ago, I did a major closet purge and re-organization. I had let my closet get out of hand, and it took isolation in my bedroom for five days due to Covid for me to get it handled…haha

Thankfully, my closet is still in pretty decent shape. Some of that is because I still utilize two closets: the one in our bedroom and one of our hall closets.

When it was time to get organized, I took my closet section by section as to not feel too overwhelmed. I actually took the time to try things on, and if it didn’t fit or I didn’t like it, then it went in the donation pile. There weren’t many pieces of clothing that I threw away, but if something had a hole or a stain, I tossed it.

Another thing I bought was hangers, so that they all matched. My closet still pretty much has those matching hangers. My thought was twofold: one, that it would like nicer to have uniform hangers; and two: that if I wanted to use those hangers, I would kind of have to stick with the “one in, one out rule” to not let my closet get too overwhelmed.

To be honest, it’s probably time for another clean out, but nothing like what I needed to do in July 2022.

I still think one of the best things I bought were these clear acrylic dividers. I actually bought two six-packs, and I used them in both closets to keep jeans, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and sweaters organized.

This is the pic I took of the finished product, and my closet still pretty much looks like this which makes me happy.

As we’ve been updating Hadley’s room, I had her do a closet clean out over winter break.

I didn’t take a before picture, but Sis really “leaned in” to tossing things and getting organized.

She actually has a really great closet…I’m kind of jealous.

Now, it looks more streamlined, and so much better!

We bought a few clear plastic bins at At Home, and we figured we could use them somehow.

On the top shelf, she has two bins filled with random things for spirit week or dress up days. That is kind of random, but very “on brand” for my spirited 8th grader. Honestly, I’d rather her keep leis, spirit sticks, tutus, etc. all together in one (or two) bin(s) where we know we can find these things rather than have to buy these things again in the future.

On the bottom shelf, she has a couple of boxes filled with photos and cards. These used to be on her bookshelf, but we got rid of it to make more space in her room.

The next two clear bins just have a couple of extra blankets. They could have just stayed folded on the shelf, but putting them in a bin ensures they have a spot and stay folded (read: smushed) in the bin.

The wire basket Hadley has had for years, and it used to sit on her desk. We got rid of most of the school supplies she doesn’t need, and decided to put her yearbooks and photo albums in it. Her new desk is actually a vanity, so we didn’t want as many school supplies on the vanity.

Lastly, the pink and white striped bin she has also had for years. It’s always housed her sheets, but we got rid of the sheets she didn’t want. Now she has a pair on her bed, and then an extra pair which is all she really needs.

We’re still figuring out wallpaper and what to hang on the walls, and then her room will be pretty much finished. I plan on sharing her room when it’s all complete. My friend did an amazing job sharing ideas, and I really appreciate it.

Hadley’s really loving her new space. 

Homer likes it too 😉

We have NTI day #2 today due to the bitterly cold temps…and more snow is on the way tomorrow! We’ve gone from 0 to 100 where winter is concerned!