Good morning to you and happy, happy Friday!
It’s almost time for me to head out to teach a barbell strength class, but the weekend is nearly here! Our plans to have a relaxing weekend at home in Charlotte sounds beyond perfect to me right now. I think all of the traveling I did last month is finally catching up to me and I’m craving a few days of sleeping in, casual meals and chill time with Ryan and Sadie. And if a few episodes from season 3 of House of Cards end up being watched this evening over pizza, you won’t find me complaining!
But before the weekend fun begins, it’s time for your usual Things I’m Loving Friday blog post where we all come together to chat about what we’re loving most each week. Please feel free to tell me all about what’s making you smile in the comments section of this post.
Have a great weekend, my friends!
Things I’m Loving Friday
- Your Kindness and Excitement Surrounding Our Baby News
Keeping our big news a secret for 17 weeks was so hard and I feel like a weight was lifted off my chest this week when I announced my pregnancy on the blog. I actually had a lot of nervousness building up inside me the night before that post went live and felt surprisingly relived about everything when your sweet words and congratulations starting popping up through the comments section of the blog and through Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
I know it was a bit baby crazy over here this week, but I was just so darn excited to share everything and I cannot say how much I’ve loved reading every single one of your comments and emails. Chatting with you guys over shared experiences is so much fun and I really, really appreciate all of the support and warm wishes you’ve sent our way. Thank you for joining us on this special journey! Ryan and I appreciate your kindness and excitement more than you know.
- Angie’s Frosted Sugar Cookie Kettle Corn
Angie’s Boom Chicka Pop holiday flavors own me. Every holiday season, they seem to come out with a new holiday flavor that looks simply irresistible and in the Easter candy/food aisle of Target, I stumbled upon this kettle corn while grocery shopping earlier this week. This may be a bold statement given how much I love their Halloween candy corn kettle corn, but I think this new flavor may be my all-time favorite. Angie’s doesn’t overdo it with the sugar cookie drizzle and it merely adds a lovely touch of sweetness to their slightly sweet, slightly salty kettle corn. Addicting!
My sweet friend Leah sent this to me this week after I spent a solid 45 minutes flipping through her memory journal on Monday morning during my visit to Chicago. Leah started recording one line a day in her journal during the month leading up to the birth of her baby boy and I devoured every single word (with her permission, of course).
It was so, so interesting to read what her life was like and what she was doing in the weeks leading up to the birth of her baby and the weeks after her little boy was born. I think she saw how much I loved her little journal, because a surprise journal showed up on my doorstep yesterday! I cannot wait to begin writing in mine soon and will likely start the month before my due date, just like Leah did! The fact that the journal only leaves enough room for a sentence or two makes it seem like something I’m much more likely to stick with, compared to a traditional diary.
- *Surprise* Pineapple Jelly Beans
File jelly beans under my list of pregnancy cravings right now. I picked up a random bag earlier this week and was SO happy when the yellows turned out to be pineapple instead of lemon! Oh happy day! It’s the little things my friends…
Occasionally I’ll receive tiny little samples of perfume in my monthly Birchbox and I love saving them for travel! During my trip to Chicago last weekend, I packed a sample of English Laundry perfume and loved the fresh, floral scent. The perfume smells bright and breezy with a lovely feminine flare! This perfect-size purse spray version may be in my future…
- ThredUp: Cash for Used Clothing
Back in January, one of the items on my organization calendar called for me to clean out my closet and dressers and get rid of unwanted clothing, shoes and accessories. I donated some stuff and also sent a bag of clothing and shoes to ThredUp, hoping to make some money. I ended up making almost $93. Score! I love this site and Like Twice for an easy way to make some money off old clothes that are in good condition!
- Sparkling Water
I’ve always loved sparkling water, but during pregnancy, my ridiculous thirst levels have caused me to drink tons of it. I love the bubbles and the way it makes guzzling lots of water a little less boring.
- CALIA Giveaway Winner
Congratulations to Erin, the winner of yesterday’s CALIA by Carrie Underwood / DICK’S Sporting Goods gift card giveaway! Erin was emailed first thing this morning. Thanks so much to all who entered!
Question of the Day
- Tell me about one thing that is making you smile today!
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I love the journal – as you’ve already said, it will be much easier to continue to keep that going. I’m probably reading too much into this, but I did notice that it’s pink! 😉
That’s what I just wrote before I read your comment. It’s a girl!! Aww!
To be fair, if you click on the link the ‘Mom’ version of the book doesn’t offer a blue version… but I have been thinking girl too 🙂
no comment!! 🙂 haha! i promise to fill you guys in soon!
Happy Friday Julie! Congratulations again on your announcement. I’ve been loving all of your posts, and you’re going to be such an amazing mom! Can’t wait to keep following along with your journey.
I’ve been loving overnight oats for breakfast lately! They’re so easy to prepare the night before, and I can just grab the container on my way to work in the morning. So easy and delicious.
Hope you have a great weekend!
The sunshine! It might still be cold and blustery out but it’s amazing the power of a bright day can have on your mood!!! 🙂 Happy Friday missus!
I thought you were having a boy but the fact that Leah got you a pink journal screams GIRL!
ha!! the journal is only available in pink, but i will refrain from saying much more. 🙂 i’ll be sure to let you guys know soon!!
I just had my girl 3 weeks ago and have the same journal. Congrats Julie!!
PS – it comes in blue on Amazon, but I’m not saying anything 🙂
I haven’t done this but I am thinking of starting.. create an email address for Baby F and write to the baby as the grow older and share thoughts, pictures, etc leaving them to open when they are older. Also if you like La Criox, have you tried an Izze drink yet? Those were always my favorite while pregnant.
love the email idea!! and i haven’t tried izze yet — i’ll look for it!
Oh man, I got so excited. haha There are too many Erins! 😉 I love that journal. And I NEED that popcorn!! Happy Friday!
My gym is hosting Cycle for Survival this weekend. I can’t wait to go there tonight and support an amazing cause!
First time commenter- congrats on the pregnancy!! My child is 13.5 months- enjoy every stage of pregnancy and the early newborn days! On thredup- I sold lots of my clothing to them and opted for the store credit. Now I buy a lot of stuff for my toddler with my credit. Its great and the baby clothing is often like-new. Its awesome! And it does not cost me anything!!
that is an awesome idea!!! i need to browse their baby/kid clothing!
I have a little one line journal called the Happiness project that I started a few years ago. I love looking back and seeing what I did on that day in previous years. It would be such a great way to document pregnancy events, such a great idea!
Holy cow, I NEED that kettle corn! Happy Friday, hope your weekend is just as relaxing as can be!
The journal is such a great idea!
The Desani lemon and lime sparkling water are pretty good too. 🙂
I have to add a Target trip to my weekend to-do list to track down Angie’s new flavor of kettle corn….I LOVE the candy corn flavor….so if this is even better, I need to try it! I also love English Laundry, I received a sample in my BirchBox too. I received a “bonus” gift card from work so I think I am going to treat myself to some new perfume 🙂 Have a great weekend!
PS – I ordered the Wonder Cloth on Amazon, can’t wait to try it out!
Aw love that journal! My mother in law actually got it for me right after having my baby! I definitely agree that with the small space it’s easier to stay current and I can’t wait until I have lots more dates filled into it!
I’m so glad you were able to share your pregnancy news with us! It has deff. been my favorite of the week!
I always get so excited when it’s almost easter because of ALL the jelly beans out. They’re my favorite!
I love La Croix! I have been drinking the Coconut and Grapefruit flavors just to feel a little more like summer or spring while it is snowing! Also, Beyond Yoga Pants are the most comfortable leggings ever! They are totally worth the price and my friend swears by her pair of maternity Beyond Yoga Leggings!!!
I absolutely ♡ Angie’s Boom Chicka Pop but never tried the sugar cookie! My favorite is the lightly salted & o just add a drizzle mix of PB2 & cocoa powder but will definitely have to try the sugar cookie now! Thanks for the suggestion 🙂
I see this popcorn coming home with me in the very near future! The fact that the sun is shining and warmer weather is coming next week, I’m smiling ear to ear!
I saw that popcorn and was curious about it – need to try it!! And I just sent off a Like Twice bag this week. Feels so good to purge my closet! Need to start looking for some good clothes for spring!! I am absolutely loving your pregnancy posts so far (and I don’t even have kids and I’m not pregnant). You’ll be the cutest mom ever!
Wohoo! I always love these posts. Finding little things to enjoy each week creates such a positive feeling going into Friday. This week I’m loving roasted vegetables. After a weekend of a few too many indulgences, I was craving roasted broccoli, brussel sprouts, carrots, and zucchini!
I’m so jealous of your love for roasted veggies right now!! I’m hoping they become more appealing to me again soon!
I featured the sugar cookie kettle corn on my post this Tuesday lol! So goodddd!!
Have you tried the new Strawberry Pineapple LaCroix from Target!? SOOOO good.
WHAT!!?? No! I haven’t seen it yet! I’ll be on the look out!
I will definitely be looking out for that popcorn this weekend. YUM! And I love that journal idea.
I am loving the new yoga classes I tried out this week! I usually only make it to one class a week, but a few new classes opened up at my gym, and I decided to try out integral and yin yoga. So glad I did! 🙂
Hope you have a fun and relaxing weekend at home!
That Memory Journal is genius!! My sister is about to have her 2nd baby and I’m thinking that would be the perfect gift!
Super funny I talked about Angie’s Popcorn on my blog today as well. That stuff is addicting!!! But now I must go and find this flavor!! Have a great weekend
beware: the popcorn will NOT last more than a day in your house! 🙂
I portion it out in plastic baggies for work so I don’t eat the whole bag but I did cash one bag I had on hand today!
Reading your blog makes me smile. Just the privilege of sharing your journey through life and the great tips and stories make me smile each day! Best wishes in your journey with baby. You will both be great parents!
thank you so much, sue!! <3
Have you had the coconut La Croix?? Life changing!!
yessss!!! the grapefruit and coconut flavors are my favorite!
I tried your recipe for the egg white protein pancake and I absolutely love it! I’ve made one 3 times this week! I am also loving fresh oranges. I don’t know where my grocery store is getting them, but they are delicious!! Have a great relaxing weekend!
so glad to hear this!! thanks for reporting back! 🙂
Angies Sugar Cookie popcorn is so good, I have to keep it out of the house! I love how their are purple sprinkles on it too, so cute!
Hi, Julie! Not even sure you’ll see this but I thought I’d try. I just wanted to share my congratulations for your little one! I am beyond excited for you (and for anyone!) expecting a new bundle of joy. I’m currently finishing up college and applying to medical school, and I’m especially interested in OB/GYN or pediatrics. I think pregnancy is such a miracle, and I’m excited to hear more about yours, and learn more of the science and medicine behind it too. Good luck and congrats to you and Ryan!
thank you so, so much, monica!!! and good luck to you as you apply to medical school — such an exciting time!!
You are ruining my life with this popcorn business, lol. I will probably have to try this 🙂
I have a 5 year journal like yours, but just for life. I don’t write it in everyday (probably just once a week), but I think it will be fun to look back and see how we spent our days. I’ve kinda slacked since I discovered TimeHop, but I still like that you write in the year, so it could last longer than 5 years.
i love that sparkling water too. i have a bag of clothes in my car for the consignment store, i never considered selling used clothing online!
Angie’s popcorn is the BEST. If you haven’t tried the caramel & cheddar flavor, you have to if you can find it. It’s amazing. It’s so difficult to find here in St. Louis for some reason. I’ll be on the lookout for the new flavor this weekend. Thanks for the tip!
That journal is SO cool! Love that idea!
And that popcorn sounds amazingggggg.
I’m still calling a girl–I loved bubbly/sparkly water when I was pregnant with L! hehe 😉 Can NOT wait to hear!!!
Happy FRIDAY!
I love the idea of a one line a day journal leading up to the pregnancy (and after – as it IS five years). What a great memory saver and keepsake for the family. I bought a pregnancy journal a few weeks ago when I found out I was pregnant and have been keeping track of everything. I want this entire process to be memorable and I want to be able to look back and reflect – the time goes by so fast.
I love country music – hello, I’m a mid-western farm girl…goes with the territory!
About a year ago, our town started to syndicate a national morning show called The Bobby Bones Show. I LOVE this show. They’re not typical DJ’s and as the years pass, they seem to be genuine friends with a lot of country artists. Last year, one of the co-hosts, Amy, shared with the world that her mother was battling cancer. But in spite of treatments and the sadness, Judy was choosing JOY throughout. It became a thing on the show – Choose Joy, and now is referred to #pimpinjoy. Amy’s mom inspired the show to celebrate the anniversary of their debut with Joy Week. This week has been Joy Week on Bobby Bones, and artists have been stopping in with no hidden agenda & are playing fun songs on the air and pimpin some joy. The whole concept is about not knowing what others are going thru, so just be nicer to people and be kind. I LOVE THAT! I think this world could use a little more joy! Amy’s mom has since passed, but her inspiration lives on and I have been loving all the JOY this week!
So if you love country music and want a big smile – head to BobbyBones.com and check out their Joy Week. Good Stuff!!!
Mary Beth -I too LOVE the Bobby Bones Show and have actually gotten to sit in on one of their shows about a year and a half ago and it was so great getting to meet and see them in person! And yes Joy Week is so amazing with what their doing to encourage people to spread love and kindness without expecting anything in return!! 🙂 LOVE THEM!!!
Julie I absolutely LOVE your blog!! I have been reading for a few years now and I just think that you are so inspiring and I want to wish you and Ryan congratulations on the little blessing and I cannot wait to follow along in this new journey of your life!! 🙂 Best wishes and I will be praying for you for an easy and enjoyable pregnancy! 🙂
Completely jealous you got to sit in on the show!!!!! That’s so cool 🙂
Have a great weekend, fellow Joy Pimper! Nice to meet ya!
I love them too!!
Oh man I got so excited when I read that Erin won, then I realized that there are probably a number of Erin’s who commented on your post haha. Oh well.
My husband and I cleared the whole weekend last week and watched the whole season of HOC. Let me know if you need to discuss 🙂 Now I am sucked into Downton Abbey and can’t stop!
Wow you must send in some quality items to ThredUp because I just sent a bunch in and got like $2…haha #fail
I have been loving reading your announcement posts! CONGRATULATIONS to you and Ryan! My mom and I came across a similar journal that my grandma actually did when my mom was pregnant with me and then for a few years after. It was so amazingly cool to look back on.
AHHH I love those 5 year diaries!! I have one (not baby related though, haha) and have used it since Jan 2013. It is the COOLEST THING EVER to look back and see what I was doing 2 years ago! You are going to love using it!
That journal is so sweet! Ooh I’ve never had pineapple jelly beans before, but I want to find some now. I love jelly beans. Have a great weekend!
I am happy that my first born daughter came home a day early for Spring Break last night. A wonderful surprise! She loves college but she loves coming home too. Congrats on your pregnancy. So exciting!!
Things I’m loving this week is being able to share in your exciting baby news!! I told my fiance you are pregnant as if you are one of my longtime BFFs haha – congrats!
I love the idea of that journal! I kept a weekly diary while I was pregnant, but the idea of the one-liners is awesome! What a lovely thing to be able to look back on years from now 🙂 Today I am smiling about my 3 day weekend. I have every other Monday off, and I am looking forward to spending 3 whole days with my 4-month old daughter (and two days with the Hubby of course)! Have a great weekend! BTW I love that brand of popcorn!
I love, love, love the journal! Things I am loving this week: Your sharing your baby news with us and all of the wonderful baby-and-mom-to-be things I’ve had the pleasure of reading on your blog this week! I am loving that it’s Friday, that the sun is shining, and that as soon as I get out of work, my husband and I are heading to Vermont for a ski weekend with friends!
The fact that I am going to see my best friend for the first time in a month today is making me smile! Knowing that my boyfriend and I have plans to celebrate another friend’s birthday tomorrow is keeping me going. Oh, and knowing that sugar cookie kettle corn exists has completely made my life haha.
A friend of mine bought me that same little “one a day journal” for my twins that are coming soon. I’m excited to get going with it and be able to look back, such a cute idea!! Happy Weekend!
That “Mom’s One Line A Day” journal is such a brilliant idea! How thoughtful of your friend Leah to send you one too. I wish I would’ve done that with Hunter. I’m sure it’ll be amazing to look back on it one day. 🙂
Oh man, pineapple jelly beans?! Those sound pretty darn good!
Enjoy your weekend, Julie! Once again, so darn excited for you guys! I’ve had so much reading all your pregnancy posts this week. xo
Many congratulations to you and your husband on your pregnancy, very exciting:) I adore those journals! I recently bought one for a friend that just gave birth the other day!
You’ll love the journal! My fiance got me the regular version for Christmas this year and I have been loving it. I think it will be such a fun way to remember our first five year of marriage. 🙂 And yes, much easier to keep up with than a diary!