End of Year Goals

To be totally transparent, I did back to work goals and didn't follow through with any of them. Lie. I saved money. More than my goal in fact. I meal prepped, then didn't take half my food. I use going to get lunch as a way to get away from work for a break, as I eat while I work. It's a horrible habit, but I don't go to the teachers lounge, so I eat at my desk while working.

I know that I do better when I set goals. I know that I am more accountable when I post the goals. Therefore, I'm going to get past my recent ugh moment and set goals for now trough the end of the year.

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Blog at least 2 times per week. I enjoy sharing rando stuff and creeping around the blog world. It's my me time during the day and I want to get back at it and continue to build the relationships I enjoy so much!

Workout at least 3 times per week. This has fallen by the wayside, again it's the me time that I haven't been doing and I feel better when I set aside time for me.

Go on at least 2 intentional dates with my boo. I'm not talking about cheapo Friday night (mexican and home by 5:30), but rather the two of us looking nice and going somewhere to spend quality us time.

Continue to pay down my debt, even with the holiday season and both my birthday and Gabriel's. I have my savings account padded and have paid off a credit card, but Sally Mae still owns my ass. Paying off debt has been #1 since I graduated grad school, but after buying the house 2 years ago, it has slowed down and I want it to be my priority again.

Take lunch 4 days per week. I've said this one before and I do well for a few then go back to using lunch as an excuse to leave work. I get a 25 minute lunch which makes it the perfect amount of time to get fast food and a large diet soda then sit at my desk and eat. Which is gross and fattening and I make better food... well except maybe some salads!

Thanks for stopping by! I can't wait to catch up with everyone again! 

Fall Recipe Round Up

Fall is the time that I like comfort food and to use easy, quick recipes as much as possible. I also like to cook reasonably healthy in an effort to not get too "fluffy" since I feel like hibernating when it starts to get dark and cold. I thought I'd share some easy recipes that are perfect for the fall weather.

Kielbasa and Roasted Vegetable  

Real Life Dinner 

Smoky Black Bean Soup 

Smells Like Home 

Pumpkin Kodiak Cakes   

Kim's Cravings

Pumpkin Pie Protein Smoothie  

Sally's Baking Addiction 

Pumpkin Granola  

Cooking Classy 

Dark Chocolate Cherry Granola  

With Salt and Wit 

Caramel Apple Sangria 

 A Night Owl Blog

Fall Goals Recap

bahaha so I was late to getting my Fall goals together and then I decided that I would go until the Winter Solstice so that I could give this my best effort. In case you weren't aware, the Winter Solstice was December 21st. Suck on that, it gave me an extra few weeks to meet my Fall goals! I also have to say thank you to Kathy, formerly of Vodka and Soda, for giving me some REALLY great organization advice! Thanks, boo! 

• Get Organized and Down Size: I have a lot of stuff. I like to keep things forever and I know that I don't need to. I put these two things together, because I feel like they go hand in hand. 
• Clean out Closets--- keep things I ACTUALLY wear and that fit. 
• Hall (winter boots and scarves) Got rid of a pair of boots and 6 scarves. 
• Guest Room (craft supplies, coats, and STUFF) Haven't even touched this closet besides coats/jackets, so I have plans to get it down over Christmas Break. The craft supplies are going to work with me. 
• Bedroom (clothes and shoes, including under bed storage containers) I filled the guest room bed with clothes to donate and decided to try and re-sell a few nicer pieces. 
• Clean Desk 
• Start filing system (we have all our paperwork shoved into a drawer) Half Way started- got the filing system put together and started moving things over 
• Clean Out Kitchen Cabinets

Overall Get Organized and Down Size Grade: B+ I got rid of a ton of stuff and am still in the process of finishing this goal, but it will be done by Jan 1. Also related, we cleaned out the garage and got rid of a TON of stuff there too AND I organized my office at work, getting rid of stuff to make room for my craft/art items to be moved there-- so I factored those into my grade as extra credit. 

• Sell Said Stuff (or donate): Not only do I need to decide to get rid of stuff, I need to actually do it. Why do I need to keep the shirt someone gave me for Christmas 2 years ago that I've never worn?  

Overall Sell Said Stuff (or donate) Grade: B+ In the middle of doing this. It will be done by December 31st for tax purposes :) 

• Stick to My Routine and WRITE It Down: I am thinking of starting a calendar in the kitchen that is there for both of us to see. Gabriel doesn't like surprises and I try to do a weekly run-down, but we both have a lot going on and can forget. We tried sharing iPhone calendars--- worst idea ever!  Didn't start a shared calendar-- am looking for a cute one on clearance now. 
• Workout- I love to walk when it is this time of the year, but I need to do more than that. Didn't really do much with this goal truthfully. I stuck to what I usually do, which is inconsistent. 
• Cleaning (including the dreaded laundry) because the house gets NASTY during the wet months with the dogs. We did a big deep clean, I have been keeping up with the laundry weekly, am doing kitchen clean up 3x/week. 
• Cooking- I would like to eat out one less meal. We have been eating out 1 weeknight, Friday night, Saturday morning and night. I meal plan, so that keeps us within a set budget and gives us a weekly menu. We started eating in on Sundays nights and weekend one breakfast about a year ago, so this has been a slow work in progress. This has been better. It wasn't perfect, but definitely better. The extra meal in per week fluctuated between being a Friday night or weeknight depending.  If a weeknight, it was usually a frozen pizza. But, that frozen pizza was planned and on the meal prep menu, which now hangs on the side of the fridge. 

Overall Stick to My Routine and WRITE It Down Grade: C- I didn't do so hot with changing my workout routine, didn't start a mutual calendar, but did do really well with keeping the house clean during this nasty weather and with meal prep. I have a goal of finding a cute chalkboard or something like that to use as a weekly calendar for us and have talked to G about putting it by the garage door where he can see it as he enters/leaves. This wouldn't be such a big thing, but I teach night classes throughout the semester, take classes sporadically, have parent/teacher nights intermittently at my schools, etc. and he frequently forgets when I verbally tell him on Sundays.... So a communication board is a must! 

I loved hearing how you all organized your life, so if you have any more tips SHARE! 

Friday Favorites {{12.12.14}}

It's Friday again! Does anyone else get up every day and just wish it was Friday afternoon already? No? I'm the only one who loves that joyous feeling of leaving work, taking off your id badge, and going yeessss two blissful days of freedom. That's one of my favorite moments every week. Here are some of my other favorites for your enjoyment. 

Favorite Quick Workout

If you are looking for something calm and gentle to do, because you are feeling sorta bloated from the holiday feasting this is the video for you. It is from one of my all time fave sites, POPSUGAR. 

Favorite DIY 

This super cute initial is the perfect alternative to the expected wreath. I have been dying to make my own in winter colors, but haven't made it to the store to buy my letter yet. It's on the to-do list. Super easy and I already have most of the supplies. Meaning the twine and hot glue. 

Twine Initial 

Favorite Recipe

I made my version of this recipe this month, with homemade noodles I might add, and G and I both loved it. It was the perfect comfort food when we were feeling down and it was dreary outside. 

Iowa Girl Eats 

Favorite Funnies 

I'm linking up with Amanda for Friday Favorites 

Fall Goals--- Any Advice?

I know what you are all thinking, girl Fall has been here and it's almost Winter and you're just now putting together goals?! Yep, I am just now getting my shit together to put my goals down on paper. I want to put them out there in the world to hold myself accountable. So, for me Fall started Nov 1 and will go until December 1. 

• Get Organized and Down Size: I have a lot of stuff. I like to keep things forever and I know that I don't need to. I put these two things together, because I feel like they go hand in hand. 
• Clean out Closets--- keep things I ACTUALLY wear and that fit. 
• Hall (winter boots and scarves)
• Guest Room (craft supplies, coats, and STUFF) 
• Bedroom (clothes and shoes, including under bed storage containers)
• Clean Desk 
• Start filing system (we have all our paperwork shoved into a drawer)
• Clean Out Kitchen Cabinets
• Sell Said Stuff (or donate): Not only do I need to decide to get rid of stuff, I need to actually do it. Why do I need to keep the shirt someone gave me for Christmas 2 years ago that I've never worn? 
• Stick to My Routine and WRITE It Down: I am thinking of starting a calendar in the kitchen that is there for both of us to see. Gabriel doesn't like surprises and I try to do a weekly run-down, but we both have a lot going on and can forget. We tried sharing iPhone calendars--- worst idea ever!  
• Workout- I love to walk when it is this time of the year, but I need to do more than that.
• Cleaning (including the dreaded laundry) because the house gets NASTY during the wet months with the dogs. 
• Cooking- I would like to eat out one less meal. We have been eating out 1 weeknight, Friday night, Saturday morning and night. I meal plan, so that keeps us within a set budget and gives us a weekly menu. We started eating in on Sundays nights and weekend one breakfast about a year ago, so this has been a slow work in progress. 

Does anyone have any tips? I am trying to de-stress and de-clutter my life so that I can focus more on being the best me all the time. I would love to hear how you've organized your life! 

Weekend Fun

I love fall. I love wearing scarves, boots, and seeing all the leaves change. I love how quiet everything seems and how people get excited for all the upcoming holidays and family events. I like to curl up with tea and sit on my couch when I am the only one awake. 

I have been going on the most beautiful walks. We have the best little park behind our house, that has a track around it that is a .42 mile loop. We have been walking it in the evening together, but on Sunday morning I got up and went by myself, which was so peaceful. 

This is what I did for Halloween. We moved our fire pit to the front yard and passed out candy from there. It was the best decision! The dogs didn't freak out every time there was a knock on the door, we didn't have small children trying to navigate our construction zone of a front walk way, and we talked to our neighbors more this way. 

Sunday was all about tailgating! We went with G's parents and it was a blast! It was a little windy, but whatevs, I look good in a hat. Gabriel's parents always have everything planned down to the smallest detail, including a pop up porta potty if need be and it makes it so hassle free and fun! I try to contribute treats and other little goodies, so since I knew it would be chilly I brought a big thermos of coffee and raisin, walnut, and cinnamon bread. Yum! 

Linking up with B Loved Boston! Go check out all the other ladies who linked up too! 

What all did you guys do?

Fall Target Lusts

Crew Neck Sweater || Flannel Shirt || French Terry Dress

Crochet Front Sweatshirt || Crew Neck Sweater || Zipped Knit Cardigan

Wedged Bootie || Lace Insert Tunic || Genuine Leather Riding Boots

Target does it again, ya'll! There are so many cute options for fall and all at a reasonable price.  When I was looking at their website, I wanted to buy ALL THE CLOTHES! I have also seen some other bloggers rocking kids size in some items, so don't be ashamed to go look there! One, it may be more fitted and two it may be CHEAPER!

What is on your Target wish list? 

Mondays are For...

Catching up! I always feel like I spend Monday catching up on what everyone did this past weekend and catching up on shit I didn't get done the previous week. So, in the spirit of catching up, here is what I have been up to... this past week since I didn't blog :)

I decorated for Halloween, my fave of fave holidays! I love to see the kids all dressed up and the creativity that goes into costumes. Last year, we had an older boy, probably 12 who came wearing a wrapped box and the tag said "God's gift to women". I LOVED IT! The easiest and most creative costume I had ever seen!

I also made the dogs try on Halloween costumes... Tigger, he totally doesn't mind. Ginger? 100% stank face. She doesn't have time for my bullshit and lets it be known. Fun hater. 

I decided that since most festivals and fairs are free and there are a TON of them within driving distance, that would be "our" new hobby. I LOVE to go to them and G is learning to like them, so it's a win-win. We went to Cider Fest in Louisburg, KS. There was live music, craft booths, and a pumpkin patch. We got fresh cider, apple cider donuts, I got a carmel apple, and G got local root beer. YUM!

Monday night football. Need I say more? Last Monday, we tailgated from 2pm-forever. It was pretty glorious. AND the Chiefs whooped ass, which made it even better! I have to say, even though it was a 10 hour event, I made sure to keep my sunscreen on and behave like a responsible adult. Well, as responsible as you can be at a Chiefs game.

Our siding is FINALLY going up!!! YAY! There were layers of shake shingle underneath the siding and they found rot in some places due to the improper care of the house, so we got all that fixed. Our house is going to be totally legit once this is all said and done. Notice the photo bombers in the door?

Enrique and Pitbull happened. Or should I say Mr. Worldwide? Bahahah I love that Pitbull performs with a big screen of all the singers playing behind him, it just makes me laugh and I can't help that! I looked super cute, but took 0 pictures. Bad blogger. 

AND

 THIS HAPPENED!!!

 The Royals swept the ALDS!!! We all know I heart me some Royals, so I have stayed up watching every extra inning and screaming at the tv. Not only did they win, they rocked the face off the Angels. They played some of the best baseball I've seen in a really, really long time!

Go Royals!

How are you rooting for?

Fall Lusts {{Clothes}}

Since Fall is about to be here, or at least I think it is since I don't work during the Summer and I go back to work Thursday (womp, womp), I thought I'd share some of the Fall clothes and accessories that I am lusting after right now. I think that you will be SHOCKED by where the necklaces come from. I have seen them in person and they are super cute! I have a feeling I will be picking up a few of these items before too long. 

Coach Box the Town Tote

NY & Co Soho New York Boyfriend Jeans

Mossimo Striped Maxi Skirt

Pearl and Mint Flower Necklace

Challis Romper

Silver and Black Flower Necklace

Merona French Terry Dress

The Diva Skinny Khaki

Coach Bleeker Mini Brooklyn Messenger Bag

What are some of your Fall lusts right now?

Fall Carabox

I participated in the Carabox exchange again. I loved getting to know my ladies last go round, so I thought I'd do it again. Again, it was a blast! This time around instead of having only one month to get to know my two ladies I had almost two full months, as Carabox is now 4 times per year instead of monthly. I think that this gave me more time to be thoughtful about what I was picking out for my girl. The theme this time was Fall, which I had to try really hard not to make Halloween (since that is my fave fall holiday!).

 I sent a box to Tiffany at In Pursuit. She is a lovely lady expecting her first baby (whom she calls Charlemagne), has the cutest fur baby, and takes amazing photos! I have loved getting to know her over the past few months. 

I received my box from Abby at Always Abby. Abby is a super sweet girl who I have a ton in common with! She works with kids, loves playing with hair and makeup products, and we also share a love of books. Abby took the time to get to know all about what the Mr. and I were up to around our new home and all the little things going on in my world. I received the cutest dish towel that I set out immediately, the cutest pumpkin patch decor block (it also got set out immediately), pumpkin spice smell good stuff (which I LOVE), a big mug that has a lid (perfect for work), nail polish, and a cute Halloween headband! Thanks, Abby!

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