Category: Friday Favorites

Posted in Clothes, Family, Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites {#264}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Friday!

How was your week? We had a good one overall. It was one without too many extra activities or commitments. I can’t believe this is the last Friday in June!

This makes me want to both laugh and cry.

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

Here are some favorites from the week:

No pic but I had pool time a couple times this week, both at our pool and my sister-in-law’s mom’s house. I hope to hit up the pool even more now that it feels like things have settled down a bit.

Anyway, another favorite was celebrating our anniversary on Tuesday. Trav and I were married on June 24, 2005.

Is it even a celebration without a card with bubble letters?

In a true picture of our life right now, we had dinner in between picking Hayden up from his workout and picking Hadley up from work.

We went out for sushi, and it hit the spot! It was a nice evening.

My friends have really shown up over the past week. It was just a hectic one with the kids’ wisdom teeth extractions and then a couple of other appointments.

I’d never even seen this book, and my friend dropped it off for me…

I can’t wait to read it!

Another friend, sent dinner on Saturday night along with some Gatorade for the kids, so I didn’t have to leave the house.

…and my sister-in-law sent some sweet treats too…

I appreciated the additional support while juggling a few extra things on my plate.

How cute is this mug?

Last week, Hadley and I were out and about, and I popped into a store I’d never been in….I was looking for a dress, but walked out with the cute mug.

Mugs don’t frustrate me…they are cute and one size fits all. The same can’t be said for dresses.

Homer continues to be the sweetest…and always seems to find the sunshine.

I purchased a few candles from Antique Candle Co. They had their spring and summer candles on sale, so I chose these three:

Almond Vanilla will be perfect for the fall; I’ve already lit Sun-Kissed Citrus, and it’s great for summer. Lavender Vanilla is one of my faves, and I will burn it next or save it for spring.

It had been a minute since I got out the celebratory red plate. The kids took turns using it for dinner to celebrate the end of freshman year…yes, a month ago! haha

They wrapped up the year with great grades and lots of track accolades.

Hadley had the plate before wisdom teeth extractions, and Hayden had it after!

I rarely buy clothes from Nordstrom, but I have purchased quite a few things through the years. Their Nordstrom sale wasn’t even on my radar, but I saw an ad on Instagram for these Wit and Wisdom flare frayed jeans…the “ab” solution fit..and the waist has good stretch. I have a pair of the “ab” solution jeans, so these caught my attention. Also, I like a cropped/shorter pair of jeans. Anyway, I purchased two pairs of these…deep sea grass and ecru, and I know I will get a lot of wear out of them…even wearing them to school.

Favorite Mom Meme:

Ok, this made me chuckle, but I can also relate. How do I have two kids driving me around town?! (BTW – I’m still getting used to this milestone!)

Weekly Recap:

I had a pretty full week of blogging. I had two posts yesterday because I got off on my blogging schedule…but here are my posts this week:

Monday Memes
Anniversary: 20 years
June Books
Monthly Musings

I hope you have the best summer weekend!

Posted in Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites {#263}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Friday!

How was your week? Even though this was a solid summer week, I still felt like there was too much going on! It’s nice to have the time to cross some things off my list, but I think I tried to be too productive this week. The weather isn’t helping either….it’s been very rainy, so I haven’t even had a pool day! I’m not trying to complain…just keeping it real that even weeks in the summer can be meh!…but better than setting a 5:50 alarm.

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

Well, my first favorite for the week is sharing a little KC recap from our visit last week.

The kids and I headed that way last Wednesday and then came home on Sunday. Honestly, we didn’t do much, but in the best way possible. When my kids were little, I felt like I always had to plan more and keep them entertained. Now, we bopped back and forth between my parent’s houses, had lunch and dinner with my Gma, Hayden played golf, Hadley worked out with my mom and her group, and we went to the Royals game. It’s always nice to see family, and I really love getting back to KC when we can.

We went to the Royals game on Friday night with my mom. Right when we walked in, there was a dug out for a photo op and then our seats were near the signature suites…and I recognized lots of signatures.

Hayden was so excited to go to Friday night’s game because Alex Gordon, one of his favorite players, was being inducted into the Royals Hall of Fame. The game didn’t start until 7:10, but we got there at 5:40 when the gates opened to ensure we got an Alex Gordon bobble head.

One happy camper:

I was always a big Alex Gordon fan too…not many players play their entire career for the Royals, and he just seems like a really good guy…not to mention a multi Gold Glove winner!

The induction ceremony was fun to watch with the former players and Alex’s speech.

Our seats were undercover on the second level and a great spot to watch the game.

Unfortunately, the Royals didn’t win, but there are always fireworks on Friday nights in the summer.

So pretty!

I made the Krusteaz cinnamon coffee cake the last time my dad visited, and he’s now obsessed with it. He also didn’t know you can buy the foil baking pans, and I think his life is now changed forever. haha

We took some on the road with us when we left Sunday morning.

Once we got back in town, one of the things on our “to do” list was picking up the bowl that Hadley painted. She went to a local pottery painting place with a couple of friends the week before we left.

I had no clue what to expect, and her bowl is stunning. She says it’s her ice cream bowl!

Since we got home so late on Sunday night, we had to delay celebrating Trav for Father’s Day until Monday night. I told both kids not to make any plans! Earlier in the day, Hadley drove me on a couple of errands, and we decided instead of a cookie cake, we’d pick up some Crumbl cookies.

So, we had dinner, and then the kids gave him their cards and the cookies. My brother has this propane fire table, and we’ve used it the past couple of times we’ve gone to his house. We have a fire pit out back, but it’s wood burning and is definitely showing its age. When I saw this one at my brother’s, I thought it would look great on our back patio and be easier to use than dealing with a fire burning pit. Anyway, now, T-rav just has to put it together. haha!

Favorite Mom Meme:

Why is this one so true?? haha

Screenshot

Bonus Fave: FBF

Going to the Royals game on our KC visit reminded me of the first time we took the kids to a Royals game. It was 2016…and the Royals had won the World Series in 2015. They were really excited to go to their first MLB game, and Kaufman Stadium had lots of kids’ activities and memorabilia to keep them busy.

Even though we live 600 miles away, I’m thankful that my kids are #raisedroyal

Weekly Recap:

I had a couple of posts this week:

Prime Purchases
Wednesday Hodgepodge

I hope to get back in the blogging groove next week…with memes, books and more!

Please send some good vibes our way this morning…both kids are having their wisdom teeth extracted today. Send me any tips…So far, I’ve borrowed and bought ice packs and we’ve stocked up on applesauce and chicken noodle soup.

Have a great weekend!

Posted in Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites {#262}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Friday!!

How was your week? I hope it was a good one. We had another week that included a little bit of everything…family time, workouts, pool time, productivity and more.

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

I’m actually keeping this favorites post pretty short and sweet.

The #1 favorite from the week was celebrating our niece/cousin at her wedding on Saturday. She got married at the botanical gardens in Louisville.

Saturday’s evening forecast called for rain, and we were all holding our breath. It started to sprinkle right as we took our seats, but it cleared up for a bit and then rained once we were inside for the reception.

Rows 3-5 ready for the wedding to begin.

As we entered the reception, this was by the door:

Travis and I were on there too…20 years of marriage…

They had a Polaroid camera for their guest book. We got a fun pic, and Hadley signed the book for us.

When there was a slight break in the rain, we stepped outside for a family photo. Honestly, it was sprinkling, but I wanted to make the photo happen while Hayden had on his jacket! haha

Oh I wish the sun had been out as the cocktail hour was to be outside, but obviously it all worked out as they had a backup plan.

The centerpieces were simple and lovely. The cousins were at table 4 and the aunts/uncles at table 5.

We were only missing one cousin. These kids are all growing up on us!

Truth be told, it’s been a minute since I’ve been to a wedding with a full reception and dance floor. Well, as soon as the music started, most of the guests were out there….and as soon as they broke out the glow sticks, it kicked the fun up a notch. I’d say if you are throwing a wedding, foam glow sticks are where it’s at!

Also, if you need a pair of heels, I’ve had these for three years. I’ve worn them quite a few times, but I truly put them to the test on Saturday night…wearing them for almost eight hours! My feet lasted the entire night in them (I sized up half a size), and I didn’t even put on my back up flat sandals! Just sayin’!

…meanwhile…teen boys at a wedding reception…swiping the napkin rings and stacking them.

It was such a beautiful wedding celebrating the lovely couple.

I did make it to the pool on Tuesday, and the weather was amazing…the sun was out, but it wasn’t too hot. I finished my first book of the summer pool side. What’s better than that?!

I can now cross One Golden Summer off my summer reading list.

I also finally made it to a Pilates class that my friend teaches. I was able to go to so many classes in January/February when we had snow days, but the times don’t really work out otherwise. So, this summer, I’m hoping to go at least two days a week.

The kids and I arrived in KC on Wednesday to visit family for a few days. This is a part of summer that we look forward to every year. I’m sure I’ll share a recap once we get back.

Favorite Mom Meme:

These kids stay hungry!

Weekly Recap:

I had hoped to write more posts this week…I still haven’t shared my monthly Amazon post, but no two days were alike this week!

Share Our Lives
Let’s Look

I hope you have a great weekend! We have a couple more days in KC and then we’ll celebrate Trav for Father’s Day when we get home.

Posted in Friday Favorites, Kids, School

Friday Favorites {#261}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello Friday but let’s slow down summer!

How was your week? Ours was really good. Some mornings, the kids have slept in; some mornings they’ve gone to sports performance training. We’ve been to the pool a bit. Hadley had a sitting job, volleyball, and pool time. Hayden has power washed for a few people, gone golfing, and continues to run. So, every day has been different, but we’re settling into a bit of a routine.

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

With this first full week of summer under our belts, I have a lot of favorites to share:

Last Friday, we celebrated my niece’s birthday! She’s 8 and oh so cute. We had cake…

…and then kids swam in the pool for a bit. It was a lovely Friday night.

Saturday was the state track meet, and Hadley ran in the 4×200 relay and the 400m race. When the kids started this season, we truly had no clue what to expect. Of course, with every race, they do their best, but qualifying for state is different than qualifying in middle school. Hayden was a very supportive brother for both of Hadley’s races, and she also had a lot of family there cheering her on.

Her relay had a PR and placed 7th overall, and she ran a solid 400, placing 8th. She’d hoped to break 1:00 in the 400; she was close, but fell short of that. The top 8 receive medals, so I think earning a medal for both races eased her mind a bit. No matter what, it was such an amazing experience for her to run those races as a freshman coming out of one of the toughest regions. Hayden had an awesome season as well.

We were blessed with some amazing photos…a friend of my brother-in-law’s is a photographer for a local news outlet and took these photos of Hadley to share with us:

…and…one of the kids’ friends and teammates has some serious photography skills. She took these pics which I love.

Hadley with her bling:

It was a beautiful morning for a track meet…and then it was time for Railbird.

After the meet, we made a pit stop at Chipolte because my girl was hungry and she went home to shower and change for the Railbird music festival. She was gone from 3:00-11:00 hanging with friends and listening to some of her favorite country music artists.

Also, how brave is she? We ordered these boots last minute, and she wore them to the festival. Who breaks in new boots while on her feet for eight hours? This girl! haha

Oh the things we do when we’re young! Also, bonus — we wear the same shoe size!

Sunday was fun as we went to a graduation party…and the sweet graduate is headed to MIZZOU this fall. What a small world.

My mom came to visit, and we went to First Watch for breakfast before she headed out on Tuesday morning. The avocado toast I ordered was delish, but even better was the “Watermelon Wake Up” juice that I ordered. 10/10 recommend!

On Wednesday, Hayden caddied a round of golf for his friend who was playing in a tournament. It was a hot day, but I know he had so much fun.

While Hayden was on the course, Hadley was driving me around town. She drove me to Hobby Lobby, so I could check out their bulletin board paper selection. So, because of Tik Tok, I’m just now realizing that Hobby Lobby has quite a few school/teaching supplies! This roll of cute polka dot paper is exactly the width of the bulletin board. My mind is blown. I’ve always used the rolls of paper that we have at school, and you end up having to overlap the paper. Please know, that the last time I put up a bulletin board was five years ago…and I won’t do another one for a few years. High school teachers are very different than elementary teachers. haha!

I’m changing rooms for the upcoming school year, and Travis helped me move my stuff on Tuesday. After Hobby Lobby, Hadley drove us to Chipolte (she loves a burrito!) and then to school where she helped me put up my new bulletin board. My August self will thank me later! That being said, I’m finished thinking about school for now!

I added a few June reading trackers to my Instagram highlight. Please feel free to use them and tag me. I love sharing what others are reading.

I was out front watering my ferns and flowers, and noticed that I have two pretty blooms on my hydrangea bush. Hydrangeas and peonies are my fave flowers in the summer.

Favorite Mom Meme:

Hello, summer!

Share Our Lives:

It’s hard to believe but we’re almost halfway through 2025…and we have another Share Our Lives link up…We’re sharing unique things about where you live. I can’t wait to read those posts.

Weekly Recap:

This was a fun week of blogging for me:

Monthly Moments
Summer Reading List
Target Tuesday
Wednesday HOdgepodGe

I hope you have a lovely June weekend.

Posted in Friday Favorites, Kids, School

Friday Favorites {#260}: The Last Day of School

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Friday!

TGIF! Today is officially my first day of summer, and I’m ready for it.

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

Well, I’m keeping it short and sweet this week!

We haven’t had a ton going on besides wrapping up the school year, so today I’m sharing the last day of school pics.

It was raining on Wednesday morning, so the traditional last day of school pics were taken on the front porch. Wednesday afternoon and evening turned out to be lovely, but Hadley had track practice and Hayden went and played golf with a friend. I’m glad I snagged the pics when I could that morning.

Ready to wrap up the school year:

I hopped in a pic since we never got a Mother’s Day pic a couple of weeks ago. Then, I had to rush off to school and they went in the house to have breakfast.

We all had a really good school year. The kids did a great job navigating a new school, keeping up with their classwork, earning good grades and juggling their schedules with academics and athletics. I think they learned a lot this year, both in the classroom and in regards to how high school works, in general! It’s tough being a freshman…and they made it! haha

I had a really good year overall. Of course, I had a couple of classes this year which I hadn’t had in a while, and I had to get used to having some of my kids’ friends in my classes. The class of 2028 will always hold a special place in my heart for quite a few reasons!

I’m thankful for a great freshman year for my kids and the same can be said for year 23 for me!

Besides the last day of school, I have a driving update….riding in the car with them has been a bit easier lately. Obviously, they’re still getting the hang of driving, but each drive has gotten better. Hadley drove us to Starbucks on Sunday, and that was quite the treat! Hayden drove me to get ice cream the other day, and did just fine on quite a busy road.

I’m glad we have some down time in the summer to keep working on their driving skills.

Favorite Mom Meme:

Isn’t this one so true? haha

Weekly Recap:

I had a few posts this week in case you missed one:

Monthly Memes
May Books
Monthly Musings

Tomorrow or Sunday, I’ll share my Monthly Moments post to recap May. It’s hard to believe that we’re about to turn the calendar page to June!

Have a great weekend,

Posted in Amazon, Friday Favorites, Kids

Friday Favorites {#259}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Friday!

This my last official Friday of school, and it’s the first day of final exams. Nothing like a wonky schedule to make everyone feel even more off kilter as we wrap up the year. We still have two more days after Memorial Day. I feel like we should always be finished before Memorial Day weekend.

Also, there’s still a whole week of May left, and I feel like “Maycember” has already done me in.

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

Here are some favorites from the week:

Another week of track being a favorite. Last Saturday was the regional race, and both kids ran. Hayden had the 1600m, and Hadley ran the 4×200 and the 400m race. I hate for Hayden that his season ended without a PR. While his time is great by most everyone’s standards, he was aiming for under 4:40 and didn’t get close to that time.

Hadley’s relay team ran well, and Hadley had almost a two second PR in the 400m. We’ll find out for sure soon, but she’s mostly headed to the state meet in both events.

I know I share a lot about their athletic accolades, but they know that what’s important is getting good grades, being polite, helping others, being a good teammate, being a gracious winner and loser, and always trying their best. I promise, it’s not all about the athletics in our house.

One thing they don’t tell you about having twins is how hard it is when one struggles and the other succeeds. I’ve always said that I’m thankful that my twins are boy/girl because if they were boy/boy or girl/girl, I’d probably compare them more. Even now, for example with track, one runs longer distance and one runs shorter distance. That being said, as you know, Hayden runs year round and Hadley runs just during the spring. So, I know he was bummed about how his season ended, but I know he’ll rally to support his sister in a couple of weeks at state. It’s just hard seeing your kids feeling defeated when they’ve worked really hard, but they have great perspective on it all. Some athletes run to be a part of team, others run for health reasons, some run for fun and others are a little more competitive and all of those athletes have a spot on the track team…which is one of the reasons I love track season. That being said, track season is long, y’all!

Another favorite this week was seeing so many peonies at Trader Joe’s.

Of course, I picked up a bouquet as well as this candle. I hadn’t seen the garden party scent before, but it’s lovely!

Homer is always a favorite. The other night I was home alone and couldn’t find Homer. I called for him with no luck. I checked outside one more time and then I spotted him in Hayden’s room! I think I interrupted his nap.

Fave Outfit:

I know last week that I shared about my new Target “wide leg sailor” jeans/pants that I got in blue and beige.

Well, on Monday I wore the beige ones with this new button down Amazon sweater, and I got so many compliments on my outfit!

This is one of those light weight sweaters that is perfect for spring and summer, and now I want it in another color.

Screenshot

(Sizing note – I’d say the sweater is true to size. I did size up one because if I think something is going to be fitted/tighter on my chest, that’s what I do. I’m assuming I could have ordered my regular size based on how this one fits, but this one fits just fine…it fits, but it’s not too loose if that makes sense) (Also, the pants come in so many colors if you are interested, just an FYI)

Also, a skinnier sandal (like the ones in the pic with the blue pants) would have been better suited for these pants, but my feet needed more support that day, and these sandals continue to be a fave.

Favorite Milestone…

At least I think it’s a favorite…is we have two new drivers in the house. This past week, both kids passed their permit test.

The state of Kentucky recently passed the age for permit test from 16 to 15. I was 15 1/2 when I got my permit, and then we could get our license at 16. Since my kids are almost 15 1/2, I felt somewhat ok with moving forward with this process. Also, this summer, we’ll have a bit more time for them to practice driving.

I truly can’t believe we are here. I’ve told the story before that when we found out we were having twins, the first words I said to the doctor were, “When they turn 16, will we have to buy two cars?” I’m not sure why I thought sixteen years ahead, but wow…that feels like yesterday! Also, no, we aren’t getting two cars any time soon! Thankfully, they’re used to sharing what they need to share.

I thought I was ready for this, but it turns out that I’m actually not!

Favorite Mom Meme:

Please tell me this will get easier…

Like for real….will I ever feel at peace about this?!

Bonus Fave: Flashback Friday”

Take me back to the only “car” they wanted to “drive” was attached to a grocery cart!

Weekly Recap:

I had a few posts this week in case you missed one:

Weekend Watch, Listen, Read
Teacher Talk Tues
Bathroom Update

I hope you have a wonderful three day weekend. We don’t have much on tap which is exactly what we need. Hadley has big plans to make her first drive to Starbucks. Oh, how exciting!

Posted in Amazon, Friday Favorites, Holidays, Kids

Friday Favorites {#258}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Friday!

TGIF! After today, we only have one more Monday, one more Tuesday, two more Wednesdays, one more Thursday, and one more Friday…but who is counting?! haha

I saw a meme that said, “Am I finishing this school year or is it finishing me?”…and I think I’ve never related to a meme more!

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

Here are some favorites from the week:

With such a hectic weekend, I didn’t really recap the volleyball tournament in Gatlinburg or Mother’s Day last weekend, so let’s start there.

Last weekend was Hadley’s last volleyball tournament for club season. I’m glad they were able to go somewhere fun for their last tournament and a place that they’ve been to before so we knew the lay of the land. We arrived around 8:00 on Friday night and got settled in. Hadley found friends and hung out…and I found friends too and enjoyed a glass of wine. It was almost 11:00 before we went to bed and then had to be up at 6:00 both mornings since their team played in the early brackets on Saturday and Sunday.

With the early mornings, I guess the trade off is that we had most of Saturday afternoon and all of Saturday evening to do whatever we wanted. After the three Saturday games, the girls hit up the water park, and I was lazy in the hotel room! We ordered pizza for dinner and while the girls ate pizza and played cards, I hung out with a couple of the moms.

Sunday, they had two games in the silver bracket. They played well overall, but were bummed to lose their last game on Sunday to finish up the season. That being said, it was a great season and a fun weekend!

We got home around 4:30, and when I pulled down the street, I saw hanging ferns which are my traditional Mother’s Day gift, and new planters for the front porch. I got a bit of a nap before taking a shower. Then, the kids gave me flowers and a card, and Trav made a steak dinner!

The flowers are from this flower bar that we have in town…meaning it’s a bar where you can get a beverage but also pick out flowers?! I’ve never been, but the flowers Hayden and Trav picked out are so pretty.

We finished the night watching American Idol, and I was absolutely ready for bed.

I missed the tradition of church, pic with the kids and brunch for Mother’s Day, but this one was still good overall! I felt the love 🙂

I’ve made a commitment to get back to moving this week. On Monday, I went to the gym and did the elliptical for 30 minutes. Tuesday, I did a 20 minute workout at home and took Homer for a walk. Wednesday, I went for a 30 minute walk and then swung back by the house to pick up Homer for a lap around the block. He wasn’t his usual hyper self, and I was going to go further, but when he saw our street, he turned to go down it. I told Trav that later and that’s when Trav told me he’d already taken him for a walk that afternoon. Obviously, two walks isn’t too much exercise, but he must have been tired!

I have a couple of favorite outfits this week…

Y’all, I’ve shared these linen pants before (I have two pairs!), but then I saw a shorter version (by a different brand), and wanted to give them a try for spring/summer. I love them too! I did size up one based on the original ones I ordered and returned. I paired them with this button down that I love as well. Also, I purchased a new pair of my favorite sandals. I looked back and I bought my other pair that I wear all of the time in 2021. It’s crazy how the straps/buckle are still in great shape, but I’d worn them to the ground. When I put my new pair on, it was like my feet got a hug! Apparently, I really needed a new pair.

Another favorite outfit from the week includes my new favorite pants (jeans?) from Target. I’ve seen these “high-rise sailor wide leg ankle jeans” (try saying that five times fast!) everywhere, and last weekend when I was scrolling my phone, I noticed that they were $16.80! So, I ordered them and the blue and the beige color. I did size up one since they are high rise, and they fit perfectly. The price seems to be back to the original $28, but maybe they’ll go on sale again…and if not, they are definitely worth $28!

I wore them with another favorite Amazon blouse and my tried and true Amazon cardigan.

Look at this fun mail that I received! One of my mom’s friends who reads the blog (hi, Sheila!) sent me this search AND color Golden Girls book. Can you even?! This is such a thoughtful gift!

Bathroom update…we had the tub resealed, and it looks brand spanking new! We’d debated pulling the tub out and getting a new one, but our neighbor who has been helping us suggested getting our tub resealed. That saves on labor and cost, and it’s the original iron tub…so most likely whatever we replaced it with wouldn’t be the same quality.

She’s beautiful!

This weekend, I think we’ll get the shower head and tub fixtures installed, and that should pretty much wrap up this project! I truly love walking by the bathroom and seeing her in all her glory! I will share a before/after post soon.

Favorite Mom Meme:

Haha! This one is so true!

Weekly Recap:

The end of the school year schedule is really catching up with me, so I only have two other posts this week, but they were fun to write:

Share Our LiveS
Let’s Look

What are your weekend plans? We have a busy Saturday and a chill Sunday…which is kind of our “normal programming” these days.

The weather on Sunday looks beautiful, and I’d love nothing more than to sit on the back patio, get a little sun, and read a book!

I hope you have a great weekend.

Posted in Family, Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites {#257}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Friday! TGIF! Am I right?!

How was your week? We had a really good one with a little bit of everything from family visiting to track and volleyball to a bit of downtime too.

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

This post is rather short and sweet, but here are some favorites from the week.

Well, Derby was a rainy day, but it was still a good day. The kids had a track meet. While we spent most of it dodging rain drops, the meet did move quickly and the kids ran well.

Saturday night, we hung out at home and watched the Derby. My dad was in town, and then we also had my niece and nephew with us while my brother and sister-in-law went to a wedding.

Anyway, the kids had a great time watching the race….very intensely. haha

On Sunday, everyone came over to my house for dinner, and we got the traditional front porch pic with the Major!

We haven’t made much progress on the bathroom since last week as the guy working on it is out of town. With the pause on working, I did take some time to add in some “finishing touches” like hanging up of the hand towel, putting the hand soap on the counter, and putting down the new bath mat. I also had some time to go to Target.

While there, I saw this cute scallop tray….for only $10! I thought it might go on the counter top, but it looks perfect on top of the toilet. These little canisters are the perfect and practical addition as they hold Q-tips, cotton balls and shower steamers for when the shower is finally in working order!

With a new month, I made a few new book trackers and shared them on Instagram. They are saved in the May book tracker highlight if you’re interested in using one.

By last May, I’d been making them for a few months, so I had created a few more compared to the earlier months. This year, I’m just adding a couple of new ones every month. They are cute, fun to make, and an easy way to share what I’m reading. I always smile when others use them, share and tag me!

Track season is winding down, and it’s been nice that so many have been able to come and watch the kids. Trav’s sisters and mom have seen a couple of meets as have my mom and dad. My brother and his family came to watch the kids run on Tuesday night when the weather was finally nice! I hope my kids realize how lucky they are to have such a fierce support system!

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Favorite Mom Meme:

With Mother’s Day on Sunday, this meme made me smile:

Bonus Fave: Flashback Friday:

First Mother’s Day in 2010. Crazy how quickly time flies!

Oh what I wouldn’t give to squish those little cheeks again.

…and speaking of Mother’s Day:

Share Our Lives:

Wow! Monday is already the second Monday of the month, so we’re hosting our monthly Share Our Lives link up. This month’s topic is how you spend your birthday. We’d love to have you link up with us.

Weekly Recap:

I had a couple of posts this week:

April Books
Wednesday Hodgepodge
April Amazon

I hope you have a great weekend. Ours will be non-stop, but I think it might be the last super busy weekend for a while.

I hope all the moms feel the love not only on Sunday, but the whole weekend too!

Posted in Friday Favorites, Home Decor, Home Updates, Kids

Friday Favorites {#256}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Friday!

Another week down and another weekend on the horizon. I’m ready for it.

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

Here are some favorites from the week:

Last Saturday, I was in Louisville with Hadley for her volleyball tournament, but Travis and Hayden were in Lexington for Hayden’s track meet. He’s kind of hit a “plateau,” not making much progress with this times despite his training, and I know he’s been frustrated.

I shared last week, that he had a PR in the mile and he did the same on Saturday in the 3200m. I can’t tell you how much it seems a weight was lifted off his shoulders having run two really good races and making progress toward his goals. I know not every race will be that way, but he was due, and I was happy when Trav sent this pic and told us Hayden’s time.

I stayed home on Sunday, but a friend sent me a couple of pics and a video of Hadley serving. Thank goodness for the live stream, so I could watch her two games on Sunday.

Y’all, I was influenced by Athena (@lifeandlightstyled)…

How cute is this little rug? I’ve had a black and white checkered one for a few years and I was just thinking how I need to replace it.

Honestly, I still don’t understand Walmart shipping, but I ordered the rug Friday afternoon, and it was on my porch by Friday evening! While I was at it, I ordered the brown striped one too for the fall and winter months.

My Target also had the “hello” door mat that Athena shared, so I placed a pick up order, and my porch refresh was cute as a button by Saturday!

An up close look…

I love a moment for scallops!

…speaking of scallops…When we were at my brother’s house for Easter, I saw this cute little lamp. My sister-in-law had a couple of them, and I thought they were so cute. I’ve always wanted one for our front hall table as there’s no outlet for a traditional lamp. I’d saved a few to an Amazon list, but just never ordered one. This one is from Walmart, and it’s sold out…but she had a third one that she hadn’t really used, and gave it to me! I love it so much.

I tried to find it to link it in case it comes back in stock, but I can’t find it on the website…which is a bummer because I’d love another one.

BTW – she also has this blue and white one that I’ve seen shared as well, and it’s so cute too…and in stock!

Circling back to the front porch, we moved two of the chairs that were in the sun room to the front porch to replace the ones we’ve had for over fifteen years. The lovely weather, the lilac bush, and the swivel chairs have been a great way to spend evenings recently.

We’re making progress on our hall bathroom update. Truly, it’s basically back together, but there’s a few little things to complete.

Trav has been helping our neighbor who has been doing our bathroom update. Well, Hadley was tasked with painting the baseboards…and she understood the assignment. haha

You know I’ll share a whole before and after, but the wallpaper went up this week, the vanity was installed, as were the sconces. The biggest highlight is that we now have a working toilet! It’s the little things over the pretty things at this point!

The mirror is the “chef’s kiss” to this wall.

Remember last week when I shared that Trav and I have been watching Race for the Crown with the races leading up to last year’s Derby?

Well, we sat down to watch episode 4, and in that episode, they were at the Derby draw where the post positions for the races are announced. Trav said, “Remember, I went to that last year? Maybe I’m in this episode.” Well, yep –there he is!

He’s going to be so difficult to live with now…haha!

On Wednesday night, Trav went to a Derby week dinner with work, and he came home with some food and some flowers. He made a big deal about “bringing me home flowers…” even though I’m pretty sure they were just the table center pieces.

I put them in this cute vase that I have, and they smell so great.

Favorite Mom Meme:

I feel so seen!

Bonus Fave: Flashback Friday:

Today is Oaks and tomorrow is Derby. I don’t think I’ll never not share this pic of the kids in kindergarten. At school, they’d made their own Derby hats.

This pic of Hadley playing dress up with my (borrowed) accessories is so cute too.

Unfortunately, this year I’m not going to the Oaks like I have the past few years. I love that tradition, but with the iffy weather and just a lot going on at school, I opted out this week. Maybe it will work out to go next year.

There’s truly nothing like Louisville and Churchill Downs the first week in May!

Weekly Recap:

I had a couple of posts this week:

Monday Memes
Monthly Moments

Unfortunately, I didn’t have time to finish my post about what I read in April, but I will share that next week!

What are your weekend plans? The kids have a track meet, and you know we’ll be watching the Derby on Saturday.

I hope you have a great weekend.

Posted in Friday Favorites, Home Updates, Kids

Friday Favorites {#255}

Posted on by jgalvinwhite

Hello and happy Friday!

How was your week? I’m not going to lie…this one felt like a doozy…so I’m definitely feeling TGIF!

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

Here are some favorites from the week:

Easter fun!…

…and a lovely Easter church service.

…followed by a great Easter lunch!

My mom visited us for about a week, and she was able to see a couple of track meets and a couple of my nephew’s baseball games. Plus, it was Easter weekend. She also helped by taking Hadley to her PT appointment, and even took the kids to school a couple of the days. It was a nice visit.

While she was here, we played Play Nine, and then Hayden randomly wanted to play BINGO. I think he has a future at church halls and senior living centers! He was very good at calling out the numbers.

Hayden and I went to my nephew’s baseball game on Monday night. I miss the baseball days! It was a fun game to watch and my nephew did a great job.

We’re making progress on our hall bathroom! The guy doing the work is our neighbor, and the hold up isn’t him! We’ve done a bad job with our ordering timeline. The shower tile finally came in, and he got a start on it yesterday. Our vanity should be in soon, and we have someone coming to do the wallpaper (I think!) early next week.

The track season continues…The kids ran on Tuesday night, and both of them ran well. Hayden’s fastest 1600m time is 4:47, and he’s been chasing his 4:40 goal. I know he’s been frustrated, and Tuesday night, he ran lights out! I haven’t seen him run so confidently or so smoothly in quite a while…and he ran 4:40, placing 3rd! He had a big smile on his face.

Hadley ran the 200 and 400 and was close to her standard times, even winning her 400 heat and coming in 4th overall. She’s still going to PT for her calf, so I think she was pleased with her runs and it had been a couple of weeks since she’s raced.

Travis was excited to start this new Netflix docu-series about horse racing and the races leading up to the 2024 Derby. We’ve watched the first couple of episodes, and he knows/is acquaintances with some of the guys. One of his clients provided some commentary in the episodes we’ve watched. I’m sure we’ll keep watching this series when we have time.

Have you seen the “send later” feature on your texts?

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This has come so handy for me. At 6:00, when I’m sipping my coffee, I usually try to get my day in order and often think about texting the carpool or other people I need to respond to, but don’t want to do so that early in the morning. So, I’ve been creating some of the texts and then scheduling them for 8 or 9 in the morning. I really appreciate this feature right now!

Favorite Mom Meme:

Ok, Hadley really isn’t a diva like this, but this one still seemed kind of relatable, and I did chuckle!

Weekly Recap:

Here are my posts this week; I always appreciate my blog readers!

Easter Recap
Wednesday Hodgepodge
Monthly Musings

We have a busy weekend ahead filled with track and volleyball…and maybe a nap for me?! I will need it.

Have a great weekend,