Five on Friday {Storm Edition}

Hey everyone! I hope you've had a good week and if you are in the Carolinas I pray that you are all somewhere safe and that this storm isn't as bad as we were expecting. We seemed to luck out here because it is going around us and we are predicted to get tropical storm weather instead of a hurricane. Anyways, I thought I would share some current faves on this gloomy day.

Jack Ryan

We have been binging Jack Ryan on Amazon and LOVE it. The premise reminds me of Homeland which was a favorite of ours. If you haven't watched it yet, add it to your list!

Peachy Bloom Designs

If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I started a little side business called Peachy Bloom Designs. I make wreaths, signs, door decor, etc. with felt flowers. I kind of stumbled upon this over the summer and have really LOVED it. The process of sitting down and doing something with your hands is so relaxing and mind-freeing. 

This was a custom order for a good friend. I love the shades of blue and gray!

Another custom order that can stay up year round! 

I have a couple for sale still right now but if you want to order something custom, let me know!

Dusty rose, gray, green, and cream wreath- For sale! 

White, navy blue, green, and plaid Fall sign- for sale! 

Read Read Read

Get it here

If you haven't checked out my post from yesterday, make sure you do. I shared all of the books I read over the summer. I also just finished Iron Gold which was so hard for me to get through. I loved the whole Red Rising series but I think that Iron Gold was just so different and long. I'm hoping the next book is better! I just started reading the book You by Caroline Kepnes. It just came out on TV so I wanted to read the book before I watch the show. Anyone else reading or watching it?? 

Fave TPT Account

I bought this reading response bundle and I love how organized it makes the student notebooks. Plus it comes with reading response expectations and choice board for their notebooks!

How cute it her classroom?? 

I have been a HUGE TPT (Teachers Pay Teachers) fan for years because it makes my life easier to not recreate the wheel when someone else has already done it. This year I found Ashley from Teach Create Motivate on Instagram and have loved seeing her ideas and buying her materials to add to my classroom. I don't even want to know what I have spent on her site this year :( but it's worth every penny to make my life easier. 

Someone on FB yesterday was arguing about how she doesn't understand why teachers say they buy materials when she has an extensive supply list she has to buy for her kids' classes. I about died reading that because it's just ignorant. If you follow me on Instagram you saw just a tiny amount of what I purchased and spent time creating over the summer. TPT is another example of how I use my own money to enhance my lessons to make my class more engaging and rigorous for the students. Rant over, just frustrated reading that. :) Go check out Ashley at Teach Create Motivate and find her on Instagram too. 

He's Home

I saved the best for last! Mark surprised me a couple weeks ago and came home early from deployment. I was VERY shocked but so happy to have my best friend back. I am very independent and can handle life on my own but at the same time there is nothing better then spending time with the person you love. It's been amazing to have him home. So grateful for the timing too! 

Five on Friday (Summer Edition)

Hey everyone! Long time no talk :) I have been a crafting and school prep machine and have really been focusing my time on both those areas. It's nice to de-stress and do something like crafting because my mind can go blank and I can just work. The school prep stuff is a mixture of excitement (to find new things) but also some anxiety because I have SO much to do. I'm trying to keep all that to a minimum though! :)

Eastern Shore

This past weekend I went to the Eastern Shore to visit my friend's hometown and to go to a boat docking event. I had a blast checking out a new part of Virginia that I've never been to and the views were pretty incredible! 

Beneath a Scarlet Sky

Less than $6 on Amazon right now!

I just recently read Beneath a Scarlet Sky and LOVED it! As most of you know, I love to read anything about WWII but I don't think I've ever read a book set during that time period in Italy. The story is so interesting but obviously heartbreaking. It's based on a real account of what happened during this tragic time. Such a good book!

Felt Flower Crazy

I recently learned how to make felt flowers and I can't get enough. They are so fun and I love the different textures that they bring to a sign or wreath. I've sold a few already and I keep making more because it's been such a good way to de-stress. I even ordered some boxes that fit a little better and will hopefully bring shipping costs down. Let me know if you want one and I can custom it to the colors you want as well!

Loft Love

See it here

I LOVE the Loft and I always find cute things there. Recently I popped in because they were having a 40% off sale on their tops. I saw this striped open cardigan and fell in love. I know that stripes aren't the most flattering but it's so comfy and will be cute to throw on for school. Not for awhile since it's still in the 100s here ;( I'll just wear it inside where there is AC ha!

Best Find

Get it here

Teacher friends, this one is for you! I bought this laminator during the Prime Day sale and it is my favorite purchase of the summer! I know that sounds dramatic but it's been so awesome. It's next to impossible to get things laminated at my school so I end up having the students use the materials without it and then they get ruined. Such a bummer. So far I have laminated a ton of task cards and game pieces for this year and I am sooo excited to get ahead! I even had to purchase another pack of laminating sheets because I used the first 100 already.  It's not on sale right now but keep your eye out  and hopefully the price will go down. 

Have a great weekend! 

Five on Friday: Summer Edition

Hey everyone, Happy Friday! Today I'm sharing some current faves with you guys. As you can tell from my last few posts I have been on a shopping spree lately :) I blame Mark because when he's gone I like to shop hah! Kidding, kidding!

San Dog

I was in San Diego this past weekend and had the best time! I promise I will post more about that next week in a full recap of my trip. I miss my girlfriends so much but I'm so thankful for the time we had together.

Fave Book

Amazon

What would a Five on Friday be without a book recommendation?? I loved the Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. My friend Kayla recommended it and I flew through the book. It's an easy read but keeps you wanting more until the very end. 

New Sneaks

DSW

I picked up these sneakers while I was in San Diego and I really like them. I'm super weird about wearing tennis shoes with jeans but I will make an exception when they look cute (and not like work out shoes) and I'm not actually wearing them to work out lol. This lilac color is perfect because it's more of a blush and very neutral. I see myself wearing these a ton to school this year, especially this fall. 

Amazon Steal

Amazon

Buying bathing suits is one of my least favorite things to do. :( NOT FUN! But when I see a good deal, I jump at it! This was not apart of Prime Day but one of my fave bloggers posted about it and I decided to give it a try. I purchased a large in this off the shoulder tropical version and it fits perfectly.   It sucks you in without feeling tight and uncomfortable and the off the shoulder and ruffle detail draws the eye up, which I'm a huge fan of :) 

The white with the palm fronds is my fave but I was skeptical about how this inexpensive white suit would hold up when you get it wet. So that's why I opted for the darker color. I paid $13 for this suit and now it's currently $14.99, still crazy reasonable and worth the try! 

 Mini Travel Regimens

You guys know how much I love my R+F products so I have to share this amazing deal going on right now. One of my most frequently asked questions (when it comes to R+F) is do they have a travel sized version? Sadly, we don't sell them but every now and then they will release the mini travel sizes in some kind of promotion. I have had several of the Redefine travel regimens and they last me forever which is crazy because they are small (and TSA approved!). Well right now you can get any of the four regimens in travel size when you purchase a full sized regimen. Such a steal! If you have thought about trying out some new skincare, let's chat about what could work for you.

Here is the link to the solution tool. It takes less than a minute to complete and can help narrow down some skincare options that are specific to your needs. I'm giving away a few free Microdermabrasion paste packets (one of my fave products!) for anyone who completes the solution tool today. Just comment below with your results, or comment on FB or Instagram and I'll enter you to win! 

Five on Friday (Spring Break Edition)

Hey everyone! As I am writing this, I am thinking lots of happy thoughts about SPRING BREAK! I cannot tell you enough about how much this is needed. The kids were insane this week and I really just need a break. Teacher friends, can I get an Amen?? I know for the rest of the workforce, you don't get a spring break. I'm sorry :( just remember that we have to deal with your kiddos before spring break and they get quite rambunctious haha! But in all seriousness, I need a rejuvenating break. I need to be able to go into these last few months full steam ahead, especially because testing season is upon us. I still have to get through today though!

Thankful

Freezing in DC

This guy is my biggest supporter and I am so thankful for him. Also, I love how it's basically Sadie Hawkins every time we wear these jackets lol. They are different shades of gray but they look pretty much the same here :) 

Homemade Bagels

 I made the holes too big lol

My cousin, Laura, gave me this recipe for homemade bagels a few weeks back and we are in love! They are so easy to make and sooo good! Plus they are made with greek yogurt so they have more protein than a normal bagel and taste delicious. Win win! Get the recipe here. 

I used the Everything seasoning from Trader Joes to top the bagels and it was perfect. If you don't have this seasoning yet, go to TJs immediately! It's really good on top of avocado toast too.

Not My Fave

For book club last month we read Turtles All the Way Down by John Green and I'm sorry to say but I didn't love it. I really try to be a John Green fan but I just can't get into his books. I  liked Fault in Our Stars but that was the only one I could finish and enjoy. I just don't connect with his characters and the plot for Turtles All the Way Down was nonexistent. I know there are TONS of Green fans out there and I'm trying to get on board but it's falling short for me. :( Sorry guys.  

Also, I just got the link from Amazon and it's a #1 Bestseller under the anxiety conditions category, so there's that I guess :) 

Peaky Blinders

A few months back I asked for some recommendations for shows to binge watch and Peaky Blinders showed up on that list. I watched one episode and was unsure if I liked I and sort f forgot about it. Well last week, Mark started watching it one night and I became hooked. I find the whole mob/ gang things of the 1900s so interesting plus it''s set in Ireland, which I love! We are through the first season and on to the second. Has anyone else watched it?? 

Patagonia

We love some good Patagonia gear in the Bradford house and we just recently ordered a couple new things. I got this Synchilla Fleece Pullover and I am soooo excited about it! I love the gray and the peachy pink mixed together. I know it's almost spring but that doesn't mean much for Virginia because one day it's warm and the next it's freezing lol. I'm sure I'll get some good wear out of this before "true" spring lol. 

Five on Friday {Currently}

The weekend is *almost* here!! Hallelujah! It's been a doozy of a week because of losing an hour. It's crazy how that one hour can throw us off so much! Anyways, I thought I would catch you all up on some things I've been loving the past few weeks.

Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis

buy it here

I just started listening to this audiobook and WOW it's so good! I was in tears within the first few minutes, but in a good way! Just inspiring and really hits home. If you haven't read it yet, go grab it on Amazon or download as an audiobook now. The author is actually the narrator of book, which I LOVE. Just trust me, you need this!

Peplum Love

buy it here

I am a huge fan of peplum shirts. They add a little something extra to an otherwise boring t-shirt but they also hide my midsection. Win win! I got the mint green version but I also loved this peachy-rust color as well. So comfortable too!

Workouts

I have been making a consistent effort to work out 4-5x a week. I used to be so consistent but with all of our IUIs and fertility related stuff going on, it has made it tough. When I was doing the IUIs, I couldn't workout for 2 weeks a month. Then when I could work out again, I just couldn't get into a good routine. Then our move happened, a new job, blah blah blah... you know how it goes. I am really trying to push all those excuses aside and making time for working out. 

I recently joined the Belle Fitness & Nutrition online training group and I am really liking the workouts. They are simple to follow (which is a breath of fresh air) and can be completed at the gym or at home. This helps on those super busy days when I can't make it to the gym. Also, following along with the Precision Nutrition program, I have a better grasp on what I am putting into my body and how I should be fueling myself. Still a major work in progress but it's getting better!

New Duster

Buy it here

I have been looking for a lightweight duster to transition into spring weather... well if it ever warms up here lol. Anyways, I found this one at Nordstrom Rack and it is so comfy! I've already worn it a few times and love it! This is the plus size version but mine was just regular. I can't seem to find it linked online by the local Nordstrom Rack here had tons of sizes. 

New Podcast

This is for all my teacher friends out there. I recently started listening to a new podcast called the Google Teacher Tribe. It's by Matt Miller (the author of Ditch that Textbook) and Kasey Bell. First of all, if you haven't read Matt Miller's book... do it now! It's a game changer!  I really love their tips and tricks when it comes to the G Suite and I have already used a couple in my classroom. I have been listening to this nonstop and it's definitely worth looking into. 

Five on Friday

It's Friday!! Hallelujah, I am so happy! This weekend is jam packed with activities but I plan to actually take pictures and will post a Weekend Recap on Monday :) As always, I have linked up with April and the other girls for a little Five on Friday.  I hope you all have a great weekend!

Little Fires Everywhere

buy it here

I finished Little Fires Everywhere last week and it was pretty good! Super different from anything that I've read lately but definitely a needed change. I loved the interactions between the characters and while it wasn't my favorite book (because I like all the scary ones lol), I liked the writing style. It's definitely something you should pick up!

Birthday fun

Look at that beard!

I celebrated my 31st birthday a few weekends ago. Mark planned a party (or should I say, fiesta?) at the house and we had a great time drinking Mexican beer and eating burritos. On Sunday, my actual birthday, we spent the day at the Waterfront and ended the night playing Mario Kart and eating pizza with friends. The perfect end to a great weekend. Thank you to this guy for making me feel so special! 

Blue Apron

We ordered Blue Apron for the first time and I was so impressed. I LOVE that everything is pre-portioned and delivered right to your home. The food was super great quality and the recipes were things that I don't normally make. I was worried about the price because it's more than what I would normally pay to make a couple meals, but I really think it's worth it. It just takes the guesswork out of dinner time and you always have everything you need. More about this in an upcoming post!

Slip-on Sneakers

buy them here

I recently got these adorable slip-on sneakers from Target and I LOVE them. I actually have the gray pair but I couldn't find them online. They go with everything and are so easy to throw on for a casual outfit or even to school. The best part is that they don't give me blisters like most slip on shoes do. I wear these no-show socks with them.

The Best Sparkling Waters

I have a love affair going with sparking water. I used to be a soda addict but stopped drinking it a few years ago while doing the Whole 30. I still crave that bubbly carbonation so sparkling waters really help. Trader Joe's has great flavors but up until recently they were only in the big bottles. I never drink them fast enough and they go flat. Well last night I found that our Trader Joe's carries a few flavors in cans now!! SO excited lol. The raspberry lime is the best! Isn't it sad that this excites me so much?

Five on Friday: Post Christmas Blues

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you had a wonderful time with your family and friends. It was strange to be here in Virginia Beach instead of home in Vegas but we made it work and had a good time.

I truly get so excited for this time of year, especially Christmas. It's such a magical time and as a Christian, it's one of the most important celebrations (other than Easter of course) because our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was born. I spend the whole month relishing in the excitement of decorating the house, listening to Christmas music, wrapping presents, and soaking in every moment. Then all of a sudden it's over and I'm majorly depressed. This year I tried to avoid the post Christmas blues by keeping our Christmas decor up longer and just trying to really live in the moment. So far so good but I do feel the sadness creeping in a little... I think that's because I have to go back to work an entire week earlier than all my other teacher friends back home. Why Virginia Beach, why?? Anyways, lets jump into this Five on Friday!

A little piece of home in VB

One of our closest friends came to visit us last weekend. She was in Virginia to visit her family and made the trek over to VA Beach to hang out with us. It meant the world to us that she would brave the traffic on such a busy holiday weekend to come see our new home. We had a blast with her, per usual, and miss her so much already!

Rodanniversary

Today is my 2 year Rodanniversary! I can't believe it's been two years already since I did something that scared the tar out of me and decided to start my virtual skincare business. I was nervous about how people would react, what they would say,  and if I would be good at it. Now, two years later I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I have grown so much from this business and have learned a ton about myself. I know that I can work extremely hard at something so out of my comfort zone, even when it scares me. I know that I can do other things than just teach. I seriously thought that was my only skill lol. Turns out, I can help people feel confident in their own skin and build a serious second income as well. It has also helped me to come out of my shy shell. Once you get to know me, I can be very outgoing but I get anxiety in new situations and around new people. R+F has given me confidence to be who I am and to not shy away from new places. And lastly, I have met the BEST people. They are friends that I never would have met if it wasn't for this business. They live all over the US and some even in Canada. They encourage me, push me, and uplift me when I am feeling down. They are not only my business partners but my friends too. So thankful for them!

The last two years have also helped us financially. I have paid off two student loans, my credit card (a few times lol), two trips to Vegas for convention (including airfare, hotel rooms, and ALL expenses), new furniture for the house, and countless other things. The biggest blessing that it has helped us with is saving enough money to do a round of IVF. We were able to put money aside this year and now feel very comfortable to make that next step. Looking back, I had NO idea how much we would need this money or how it could help us, but I am so grateful for the sense of security it has given us. Thank you Sara for caring enough about me to introduce me to this incredible business!

The Crown

I finally finished Gossip Girl, just in time for the 2nd season of the Crown to come out. I wasn't in love with the first season but I liked it enough to watch the 2nd. Well this season turned out to be sooo good and I was immediately sucked in. I finished it last night and I'm so sad it's over! I'm hope there will be a 3rd season!

Miracle Morning

buy it here

This book was recommended by several friends and has incredible ratings on Amazon. I knew it would speak to me because I am NOT a morning person and want help in that area. I'm only about 25 pages in and I am already loving everything the author has to say. I'll keep you updated on my final thoughts.

Slipper Socks

buy them here

Mark got me these Ugg slipper socks for Christmas and they are seriously my favorite thing right now. They are so comfy and have been perfect for these VERY cold days we have been having in Virginia Beach. I can't seem to stop wearing them and they also make me want to never leave the house haha. That's a bad thing!

Five on Friday

Happy Friday!! I'm SOOO looking forward to this weekend because I was gone all last weekend and holy moly I need some down time. I'm also excited to dig in and get some work done on the house. Mark got so much done while I was gone... thank you! I am going to attempt to paint the whole bedroom this weekend. Let's see how it goes!

Missing HP

this isn't from Olympic day but this was our last BIG HP event together. :(

I am really missing my HP friends today because it's the 2nd grade Olympic day. Such a fun time seeing all those kiddos in their Greek costumes. Steph and I even dressed up last year or was it the last two years?? Can't remember lol. I'll be thinking about my work wife today and praying that everything goes smoothly. 

New Hilderbrand Book

buy it here

I have pretty much read every single Elin Hilderbrand book out there. I love that they are light reads but the characters always keep me interested. For the past three years, she has come out with a Christmasy book following the Quinn family and the next installment released on October 3rd. I actually preordered it so it would be delivered right before my trip last weekend. Perfect timing! I finished on the plane on the way to Vegas... an easy read but I loved it.   Check out the 1st and 2nd books.

Apple Cinnamon tea

buy it here

During the fall and winter I love to end my night with a big ol' cup of tea. It helps me to stop eating and stay away from desserts. Plus it's just so calming and relaxing. Right now I am loving the Apple Cinnamon Spice tea by Celestial Seasonings. It is still VERY warm in VA beach but I am pretending like it's fall!

New earrings

I recently bought some tassel earrings from Laura Cox Designs and they are so fun! I was nervous that they are a little too big for my tiny ears lol but the people of Instagram thought they looked great. Thanks for the vote of confidence! She has super cute tassel necklaces too!

Great Devotional

buy it here

Stephanie and I decided to do a daily devotional together as a way to connect since we aren't at the same school any more. Well we aren't even in the same state or side of the country :( We are both loving Paul David Tripp's daily devotional, New Morning Mercies. It's short and concise but goes pretty deep. I love how Tripp is right to the point and gives you a gut check with your faith. We all need that at times.

Have a great weekend!! I hope I can get my life together enough to write a weekend recap next week. Did anyone notice how I posted 3x this week?? I was impressed with myself lol.