Thursday, December 19, 2019

When I became a parent I wanted to make the holiday special and I felt the pressure that it was now up to me!  I wanted to be intentional with Christmas so I started some traditions at a pretty early age – age 3 with my twins. 

“Something to wear, something to read, something you want, and something you need.”

I can’t remember where I first heard this quote, but it really resonated with me.  

-We gave the boys new pjs on Christmas Eve and they would immediately put them on.  

-We also opened a family gift on Eve which was always a new game.  

We still do both of these things with our teens.  

We always gave them new socks and underwear in their stockings.  Now it is really the only time of year they get new items in these categories.  They both did start liking the fun patterned/printed socks so we gave them socks for Easter I think. They never complained about getting these items and seemed to like them.  

We also give them new clothing.  They don’t care about name brand but they love soft worn in t-shirts with funny sayings and they love cozy warm clothing.  

Our boys love owning books and they always have.  They loved the library but they wanted to have books to keep, too.  Now that they are teens we usually do a Barnes and Noble gift card. They enjoy perusing the shelves and this makes for a nice family activity over the break.  

We try to give them something that they don’t think they will get.  I love surprises.  There is nothing better than seeing them be shocked at an awesome gift.  It was a record player last year for Mason.  It was a drawing pad and software for Jack recently.  

We knew that we wanted to keep it simple and not too overwhelming.  There would be gifts from grandparents, aunts and uncles, too.  

I also do stockings for them.  They really like opening their stockings, I think.  Everything inside is wrapped.  All of their gifts are wrapped under the tree, too.  And, Tom and I do each others’ stockings.  It’s a lot of fun.  

Have you ever asked your kids their favorite things about Christmas?  I recently asked mine and neither mentioned the gifts.  

I heard: “time at home that day with nowhere to go, watching Ernie look in his stocking, eating  Chinese food after Christmas Eve service (we have only done this once but I guess they liked it!)  

What traditions or advice do you have?  

Amy 

Wednesday, December 18, 2019

I am linking up with The Style Six today so head over there for some ideas!

Here is my adorable co-worker.  She asked to be faceless, but she had on black ponte leggings, tall black boots, chambray top, and burgundy poncho.  She looked so chic and she teaches French – so there you go!  

I wore this to school last week and promptly lost the vest because it was too hot. 

That night I went out to eat and changed into black ponte pants, burgundy top, but with the same vest. 

I wore black with black one day so I could wear my new leopard headband.  I did gold flats to bring out the gold in the headband. 

Shopping outfit – black ponte pants, plaid shirt, black poncho, and headband. 

Buffalo plaid short sleeve from the hospital gift store last year (sad).  I have worn a long black sleeve under this but I like the option to stay a bit cooler.  Our building is seriously overheated and I hate to be hot at work.  

Do you have a favorite?  What have you been wearing?  

Amy 

Tuesday, December 17, 2019

My favorite Christmas decor is really very simple.  I have this hall table and I have all black frames with all of our Christmas cards through the years.  It makes me so happy to bring these out each year.  

The boys’ ages are on the back of each frame.  There was one year where I did not do a card – age 14 – and I still regret it!  

I would love to do this for Halloween – all of their costume photos through the years.  This was actually a suggestion by Gretchen Rubin of The Happiness Project.  

These are just cheap black frames.  I think I bought a set on Amazon.  I like the different sizes.  

What do you think?  How do you save your family’s cards?  

Amy 

Monday, December 16, 2019

Hello Monday and hello dear readers!  How was your weekend?  Mine was pretty good.  I think it really gave me time to recharge my batteries and get ready for a very busy week that will hopefully put some closure on the first semester of school so I can truly relax for two weeks until second semester starts.  I am linking up with Heather, etc. at My Glittery Heart so go right here!  

Thursday night was Jack’s winter choir concert.  He was only part of three songs, but it was nice to see him in his tuxedo and enjoy the beautiful music.  

I tried to stay up later than usual Thursday night but I just couldn’t.  Why?  Because I had a much needed personal day Friday!  Typically I take a day off to do shopping and errands some time between Thanksgiving and Christmas if I can. 

It is very hard to be a mom and a teacher at this time of year.  I am not trying to be a whiner but add to all the many tasks that the mom does all the many tasks it takes to finish the semester.  The kids are distracted, we have content to finish, we have exams to create, give, and grade, grades to enter, parents to contact, and the list goes on. 

Friday morning after doing some things around the house, I met my friend at a new coffee shop.  We sat and talked and drank from real mugs and shared some breakfast.  Then, we headed to a new boutique to try to do some shopping together.  Then, we separated to start our long lists.  It was a nice treat. 

I wore my hair straight with my suede headband and my plaid shirt. 

We split a pumpkin muffin

and a chive biscuit

They really don’t serve decaf! 

I ran to two stores after saying goodbye and then the traffic was insane.  I ordered a to go spinach salad and went home to eat and then I couldn’t make myself go back out.  What is it with traffic around lunchtime on Fridays?

I have been on the list for this for a long time and finally got it earlier in the week.  It was a bit slow to get started, but now I’m really enjoying it.  I did not like The Royal We.  I felt that it was too long.  This is moving much faster for me.  It is about the fictional American monarchy.  It’s a little goofy – the American royalty are called “The Washingtons” but it’s also interesting to think about what if we did have this type of government.  

Then the boys came home from school and one went to a birthday party and one went to a band gig with friends.  Tom and I had his annual work party to attend. 

It was a nice event as always.  Tom looked nice all cleaned up and he even smiled for the camera. 

I did not get much sleep Friday night because one boy came home late and I waited up.  The same boy took the ACT Saturday morning so this was not ideal.  I headed to Target after he went to the ACT and I stayed inside for 1.5 hours and it was glorious.  I love when I can go early.  I knocked out several items on my list. 

And, I got to enjoy a skinny vanilla latte. My green polish matches my cup, too! 

Tom spent many hours working on the house this weekend.  

I bought ingredients and made the Starbucks medicine ball tea.  Yum! 

Saturday afternoon I had a beer in my slim can holder with my monogram from Heather. 

Saturday night we had all the chicks back in the nest after busy days for both and we used Door Dash to get Qdoba delivered. 

Ernie is such a sweet boy. 

I spent the evening reading and watching t.v. and went to bed super early.  This cookbook is really good and I hope to make some recipes after the new year.  I got this from the library after a blogger recommended it.  

Sunday I did our cards, grocery, laundry, and did some more shopping.  I started the weekend with zero gifts and now I am well on my way to being done!

I will show you the card after I send it! 

Now I am doing school work in hopes of having a smooth week ahead.  I hope you had a great weekend!  

Amy 

P.S. – If you read my Friday Faves post, I did buy the Loreal Ever Pure Sulfate Free Shampoo and Conditioner and it was my friend Tanya’s recommendation.  I love it!  Go see her here!  

Friday, December 13, 2019

Oh my gosh how I am glad to see you, Friday!  I am linking up today with Andrea, etc. so go right here!  

I have so much to do this weekend!  I have not done anything really for Christmas and my excuse is the renovation, the late Thanksgiving, and my job!  Does that excuse hold water?  I have done my mantel, my hall table and my two decorations in front of the house but that is it.  How is it the middle of December?  I really do not understand!!!!

O.k., let’s talk a few favorites today….

I got to eat dinner Wednesday night with my aunt and cousin who were in town shopping.  I didn’t take a single picture!  

My son had his holiday choir concert last night.  I love that he has found his voice – his singing voice – no pun intended.  And, my other son just tried out for the school musical for the first time and sang a song like an angel!  I took my boys to church choir from age 4-12? religiously – pun intended.  They spent ages 12-16 talking about how much they hated it and how they couldn’t believe I made them do that.  But, look who is laughing now!  Me!  I like to bring this up often.  It goes over really well.  

The perfect red lip – I have been on the hunt for the perfect red lip for me.  I have a great summer orangey red that I think looks good – I hope!  

I looked to my favorite classic – Revlon Super Lustrous Creme – and found Bombshell Red.  It is kind of a brick red with a hint of hot pink.  I don’t know what I’m talking about – I like it, though!  This is a great formula for the price – around $8..  To make it last, I usually use a lighter Lipsense color and then top it with Revlon.  I know you aren’t supposed to do that, but it’s my thing now.  

Here is a swatch on my freckled hand – awkward! 

And on the lips – super awkward!  Or, it is artsy? 

Anyway, it’s obvious that I am not a beauty blogger so go look at the grocery store or drug store and let me know what you think!

I could not put this book down!  I don’t know why!  The first in the series wasn’t like that for me.  This drew me in and now I cannot wait for the final in the trilogy.  

When you are a language teacher, you have to do a food day.  I call it a “Cultural Experience”.  The students pick a recipe and have to make it themselves – no store bought foods.  I do allow Tex-Mex.  Here is an example of our bountiful feast in one of my 6 classes.  Yes, I did this 6 times.  

I really want this!  I am so good at Christmas shopping for myself!  Maybe my procrastination will pay off with even better prices as we get closer to Christmas.  My family has really calmed down the gifts and simplified over the last several years.  I get out of school December 20 and probably could wait until then to do most of my shopping.  I definitely won’t wrap or bake until then.  

I want to try this shampoo for highlighted hair.  I haven’t been using anything special and I think I can tell a difference.  Anyone use this or have another recommendation? 

If you watch Bravo show and you don’t listen to this podcast you are missing out.  This makes me roll with laughter and I love the hosts so much.  It is not appropriate for young ears.  They do the funniest impressions of the people on all The Real Housewives shows and Below Deck right now.  

What have been your favorites of the week?  Are you stressed about the holidays or are you like me this year?  

Make it a great weekend!  

Amy 

Thursday, December 12, 2019

You hear a lot of bloggers talk about Kendra Scott – and with good reason.  It is truly quality jewelry for a decent price.  I fell in love with the Rayne necklace maybe 8 years ago.  My first piece was the turquoise and I wore it a ton.  I then asked for the white for Valentine’s Day from my hub and I wore that color even more!  I love everything about this necklace.  The stones are so pretty, the tassel is so fun, and it adds that third piece that I think is so crucial in a pulled together outfit.  

The white Rayne which is about 6-7 years old.  These retail for somewhere between $70-90 but Nordstrom often runs sales and you can get 20% off by signing up for emails on the KS website. 

The turquoise

This was my 50% off birthday piece two years ago.  If you go into an actual KS store in your birth month you get this deal which is incredibly generous. 

This year’s 50% off piece.  It is so beautiful!  I have worn it so many times already! 

Her earrings are also extremely popular and surprisingly lightweight. 

A gift from a dear blogging friend Kellyann from This Blonde’s Shopping Bag blog.  These bracelets would make an excellent gift. 

And, now for some outfits with the pieces! In my opinion, these would have been boring without the long necklace/third piece that my KS adds.  

These make a great gift for the younger tween or teen, too.  They are loving the tiny stone choker necklaces.

Where do you stand on Kendra Scott?  

Amy 

Wednesday, December 11, 2019

Here is what I have worn over the course of the last week!  I am linking up today with the ladies of The Style Six so go right here to see more fashion posts.  

School outfit:  everything is old – Old Navy plaid, leggings, TJ Maxx fringe vest, Tory Burch flats.  Comfortable and fitting for the season! 

Here I either look like an ad for Scotch tape or a little girl.  I love these soft plaid leggings that I got for under $10 several years ago, this top came from Amazon a couple of years ago, and I am wearing my suede headband. 

Saturday night out outfit consists of Target Wild Fable liquid leggings, black blouse, faux fur vest and old suede dress booties. 

School outfit:  I found this Walmart Time and True blouse for $6 at my consignment shop Clothes Mentor.  I think it looks very Matilda Jane or Anthropologie.  I do not know how it will wash so I may spot clean.  

And another school outfit with leggings, olive Amazon tunic, charcoal grey vest from TJ Maxx, and Old Navy camo scarf.  Oh, and Costco booties from last year! 

Do you have a favorite?  

Thanks for visiting me!

Amy 

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

I love velvet!  Over the last few years, I have been adding a few things to my collection.  I realize it doesn’t work year round, but I get a great deal of wear out of it from November – February.  It is such a cozy fabric and I think it adds some interest and richness to your look.  Plus, it is everywhere!  Have you noticed how popular it has become?  

Let’s get this velvet party started!  

First, I purchased this Target A New Day kimono back in maybe August or September!  Why?  Becuase last year I fell in love with a very similar one at a boutique for $70 and I couldn’t do it.  So, when I saw this for $27 I knew it was my shopping destiny.  

I struggled for a while to decide what to wear under it and then I saw a black velvet cami at Old Navy for a reasonable price and that didn’t dip too low in the front.  I am looking forward to wearing this a couple of times at the least this season and then hopefully I will still like it in the future.  What to wear on the bottom, though?  I think velvet bottoms would be too much – even for me!  

A closer look at the kimono:

I also recently bought the rust/mustard version for Thanksgiving but didn’t end up wearing it because it was colder than I predicted.  I think these are pretty timeless pieces that I can hopefully save for later.  I did wear it to school that week, though.

The next piece is also a kimono that I got on super sale at the end of the season two years ago at a local boutique.  It was $20. I like to wear it over a burgundy or blue swing dress – they both match the colors in the kimono.  

This is probably my oldest piece.  It is JC Penney Liz Claiborne and I love it so much!  It is so well made.  I love the cut of the sleeves which come to the elbow and the banded bottom hits at the right place.  They also had it in black and purple but I loved this shade of red and I thought the purple could make me look like Barney – not the look I am going for. 

This is cut like a t – shirt and from Old Navy last year.  I wore it a great deal last year. 

And here is another Old Navy from last year and it really sparkles – I bought this for New Year’s. 

And, my good old Matilda Jane velvet ruffle pants.  These can really be dressed up in my opinion. 

So, where is velvet appropriate?  I think everywhere!  I do wear it to work in the winter because I like it so much.  It can easily be dressed up with a statement necklace, a faux fur, etc.  

One of my dear blog readers has velvet leggings!  I need those!  Other than that, I think my velvet collection is complete!

Where do you stand on velvet?  Love it?  Hate it?  Don’t live in a climate conducive to velvet?  Tell me everything!!!!

Amy 

Monday, December 9, 2019

Wow – that went by quickly!  The first week back after a long break is always difficult and add to that the fact that I hadn’t meal planned, prepped or anything and by Friday I was wiped out.  I went to get my nails changed from dark grey to…

dark green.  I was really going for a very dark forest green so this isn’t exactly what I wanted.  They didn’t have exactly what I was looking for, but this is kind of fun and different for the Christmas season. 

We ordered pizza and it was so nice to stay home Friday night after a busy week for all of us.  I think I was in bed before 9:00.  That makes like three nights last week that I did that.  

Saturday we had tile workers early and we did errands, laundry, Jack did theatre, Mason did work on a scholarship application, and Tom did work on the back deck.  

Saturday night was the much anticipated reservation to eat in an igloo for Tom and I and my two best friends and their husbands.  Let me explain…

I had heard that a restaurant on top of a hotel in downtown Louisville called 8 Up would have 8 themed heated igloos for dining during the holidays.  My friend was able to book us the “fur and diamonds” igloo.  

The walkway into the igloo area:  

Our igloo – we had six people and they are supposed to hold eight. 

My two besties of 30 years – you can see the remnants of the fake snow that fell on the igloo.  I tried to dress to match the fur and diamonds theme. 

Outside of our igloo and you can see the summer themed igloo to the right of us.:

O.k., so this is like Instagram versus real life.  There was no table in the igloo so anything we ordered had to be put on the tiny coffee table or held in our laps!  This was the kale and artichoke dip. 

Everyone either got pizza or a sandwich or tomato soup. 

The service was really bad and it was very awkward to eat with the food on our laps!  We laughed about it but it was a fun experience.  The server had to unzip our igloo like a tent to bring us stuff.  I bet the employees hate the igloos!

One of my errands Saturday was the library and look what was on the shelf!  It is the sequel to Winter in Paradise which was good, but not my favorite by Elin.  But, I cannot put this one down.  I love to read on Sunday mornings with my coffee before my family is awake.  

I walked to my school’s craft fair on Sunday. 

And, I had brunch with my school friend who took early retirement and is going to move back to her hometown of Hilton Head where she will teach.  We ate at Noosh Nosh and enjoyed a mimosa.  I was talking too much and forgot to get a photo.  

Mason went to a friend’s house for the afternoon and Jack and Tom went to a play.  

Meals for the week:

Sunday – Texas Chili (below) and cornbread

Monday – Homemade mac and cheese and turkey sausage, green pepper and onion o a sheet pan

Tuesday – chicken spaghetti and Texas Toast

Wednesday – fish sticks, peas, and leftover mac and cheese 

Thursday – spaghetti 

I started following Cattlebaronincashmere on Instagram and this is a super easy chili and very different from my chili recipe.  

How was your weekend?  I hope it was great!  

Amy 

Friday, December 6, 2019

Oh Friday – especially after the first week back – I am so happy to see you!  Linking up today with Andrea, etc. so go right here!  

I have enjoyed having this festive color on my feet.  Do you keep a pedicure the whole year long?  I do.  I have a thing about feet looking presentable!  My pedicure was called Bogotá Blackberry by OPI.  

Unfortunately my sisters live 2 and 3 hours away from me.  We always have lots of laughs when we are together.  I am the oldest, by the way!  We did some shopping on Saturday after Thanksgiving.  

My dear friend that I spent Tuesday night with shopping and eating at the speakeasy is so talented and she made me this scarf!  

She also made these ornaments that I may try to turn into a garland! 

I wore this headband to school one day and it was comfortable for the whole day in case you were wondering from my post here. 

I also added this leopard one to my collection!  I thought it could jazz up a plain black top. 

I am still loving these earrings.  Click here for more information. 

What were your faves this week?  

Thanks for reading!

Amy