Friday Favorites

I don’t even know where to start this week. It’s been a sad week all over the world and just as sad in my own personal circle. This morning, I have a celebration of life (my third funeral in three weeks) for a woman who held a special place in my heart for the past 10 years. She was one of the first moms I connected with my first year teaching. I spent my summers babysitting her kids and was chosen as the sponsor for her daughters confirmation. She was the one that could always make you laugh and was always up for an adventure. The one thing I always asked was for her secret to parenting, because she raised the most well rounded children I’ve ever met. I have so much love for her and still cannot believe she’s gone. My heart is broken for her three children, for her husband and for all that were fortunate enough to have her in their lives. Cancer just plain sucks. Hold your loved ones close and make sure they know how much they mean to you. Life is way too short.

-kindness-

The words and things I’ve seen on social media this week make me sick. I don’t see how we all just can’t come together in these times of need instead of placing blame, justifying actions and making excuses. We need more love and kindness in this world. This print from French Press Mornings is now my new screen saver on my phone.

-comfort food-

Over on Simply Made with Love I posted a recipe for corn chowder. I had it at Panera a few weeks ago and was determined to make it at home. I had my first go at it last week and it came out so good. Full of flavor, filling and perfect for a rainy summer night.

-gym time = me time-

This past week I went back to the gym for the first time since we moved home. I loved the Y in Texas and it was a nice break in my day. Here, I didn’t want to spend the money for a membership when I could easily workout at home. Well….working out at home isn’t as easy with Luke getting into everything and it’s too hot to run outside. AG is also not in any camps this summer, so I joined our Y this past week. I was really nervous about how Luke and AG would do going to the “daycare” there but to my surprise, they’re doing GREAT! Luke cries a little in the beginning but I’ve been able to workout for 45 minutes each day without having to pick up a crying child. That my friends is a big success. I forgot how nice it was to just have some time to myself. I can check emails while on the machines, listen to music with EAR BUDS and as odd as it sounds, relax while exercising. Worth every penny.

I snatched these Zella leggings up from the Nordstrom sale last week and LOVE them. So comfortable and fun too.

-toddler nutrition- 

I shared my secret to making sure my picky toddler gets the nutrients he needs on the blog this week. I wish I would have known about this when AG was his age!

-my world- 

Watching their sibling relationship grow is the absolute best. Sure there are little arguments or sharing issues here or there but they love each other so much and love hard. AG is a little momma to Luke and is always watching out for him. There are still many days I can’t believe they’re mine. Such blessings.