Monday Morning Wrap Up

Good morning. It’s been a whirlwind over here. We had a busy week and then said goodbye to Riley once again. It really doesn’t get any easier. And the house feels so quiet this morning. Trying to lean into the calm rather than fight it. But I’ll keep you posed on that one. Here is a recap with the Monday Morning Wrap Up.

FOX AND LOCKE

Our neighbors invited us to Casey’s Countdown at Fox and Locke and it was a blast. The band is incredible and they cover the greatest hits from the 70s and 80s. We will definitely be going back. So much fun.

LET’S GO PREDS

I think everyone knows we are Penguins fans, but when it comes to our local team, we are all in. We went with friends to the Preds/Islanders game and it was so much fun. It went all the way to a shootout which is always exciting. If you are visiting this area, Bridgestone Arena for a game or show is a must. It’s so easy because it’s right on Broadway and within walking distance of so many great spots.

*If you are hockey fans, watching Matthew Schaefer from the Islanders play was such a treat. He is only 18 and beyond talented. One to watch for sure.

A FAVORITE LUNCH

Many of you showed an interest in some healthier meal options that will balance blood sugar. I am always intentional about eating protein, carbs and healthy fats together. It’s the combination that helps to balance that blood sugar (ie: I wouldn’t just eat a fruit on it’s own). Once you start eating like this, it really becomes an easy habit to stick to and keeps you satiated so much longer.

Here I cooked sweet potatoes in the air fryer and topped with grilled chicken (we prep for 4 days at a time), arugula, cilantro and sauce I love to make. For the sauce: 2-3 tbsp greek yogurt mixed with Frank’s Red Hot and a dash of sea salt and pepper. So yummy!

CLOSET SWITCH UP

This is a closet upstairs between the kids’ rooms. When we moved in, I tossed a bunch of stuff in here. Fast forward almost 5 years and I realized this was not being utilized well so I purged it and created a Christmas closet. The only thing I kept from the closet were extra sheets and my wedding dress. If you follow me on stories you may have seen me asking where you store you dress. Mine is in the huge box from the dry cleaners. It’s a bit of hassle to store but I love holding on to it. Are you still storing the giant box in your home?

We have our trees in the basement storage but everything else is in here and I am loving it. What you can’t see is a third row of bins stacked to the right because the closet is quite wide. One of our string lights for our stair garland had gone out so I ordered a new one. It arrived yesterday and it was so easy to open up the garland bag and toss it in. I think this will also keep me from adding too many new items because it all fits so well right now. AKA: there is no more room!

MY WORD FOR THE YEAR

In last week’s newsletter (join us here) I shared how I came about my word for the year. It’s been really nice to fall back on “consistency” when I don’t want to follow through with something. I have made the commitment to myself and it’s a wonderful reminder when I need that little nudge. Did you chose a word for the year?

CONSISTENCY

Speaking of consistency, I have shown up every day for the Fit with Coco challenge and I am loving it. There are days I don’t want to do it, but the second I am done I feel amazing. It feels good to be moving my body and challenging myself with heavier weights. We have a guest room in our basement and that is where I have a little workout area set up.

BACK IN STOCK

This cute college collection is back in stock! I know many of you missed out in the fall. I love my Irish sweater (I bought a small). They have about ten different schools if you want to look for yours.

LOVE RUNS DEEP

The nicest thing about putting away all of Christmas was taking a moment to mop the floors. I am obsessed with this machine. But I am envious of anyone buying one now because it’s improved even more. Mine is the 3 but the 5 seems really cool. It really is a dream. . . it vacuums, dusts and mops . . . and it self cleans. Easy peasy. All you do is fill it with soap and water, push the power button, and mop away.

CUTER THAN I THOUGHT

Just a heads up if you are outfitting a dorm room next year. This ottoman is DARLING. So much cuter than I thought it would be with the ribbed detailing and gold band. Riley took this back with her for her raised bed. Plus there is storage inside. A great piece for any girl’s room.

We are gearing up for another busy week, including senior night for our hockey player. How did we get here? I desperately need time to slow down. Wishing you a fantastic week ahead. If you missed Saturday Shopping, you are welcome to check it out here.