We went into this game with the idea that it could be our last, but we also felt like we knew so little. I could it already be over?
Laundry Stripping
A few weeks ago or so, I saw a story on Instagram where someone had “stripped” their laundry. I decided it was worth a shot to try on both our towels and Melody’s towels. We have had our towels since we got married back in 2013, and Melody’s towels since 2016. I figured if nothing else, they may come out smelling a bit better overall. Check out my results below.
Winter Stitch Fix
I received my winter stitch fix earlier this month. One of my requests was to receive clothes that I could easily work out in but also transition to carlines and errands. I think my stylist did a great job with my picks this month, and they were really on point with my request. Check them out below!
Baked Scallops with Herbs and White Wine
I found this recipe from Noom’s app. We love scallops and just don’t cook them often. This recipe is exceptionally easy and foolproof.
Pandemic Legacy Season Two Late November
We now get a second attempt to win November before heading into our last month.
Valentine's Day 2021
While we always keep Valentine’s Day low key, this year was truly that. We stayed in all day (with the exception of a lunch trip Brad made), and we just spent time playing and relaxing (and prepping for an “ice storm”).
Sweet Treats for Teachers
Very [VERY] last minute I decided to make Melody’s preschool teachers cookies for Valentine’s Day. I mean, literally the day before I was searching through party supplies for treat bags and making the labels and cookies. And while I only ended up with two cookies per teacher, it is the thought that counts.
Air Fryer Donut Holes
I made this donut holes early during the pandemic for Melody. I actually did it because I went to Dunkin’ Donuts and they didn’t have any powdered donuts (regular or munchkin). I had this recipe tucked away for a while, so it was the perfect opportunity to use it.
Thumbprint Valentine
I racked my brain for a cute Valentine to give to our parents from Melody. I always like to try and do something with her hands or feet. This year I opted for her thumb and fingerprints.
Valentine Basket
A few weeks ago, I saw another blogger post about making a holiday basket for Valentine’s Day. She intends to change it for each holiday. It includes plates, napkins, cups, etc. Basically all the things related to that holiday that you could make fit. I decided to recreate it myself using our things. I always have cute holiday plates and napkins, but no where to really display them. So now the problem is solved!
Hugs and Kisses Valentine Exchange
I let Melody general decide what to do this year for her Valentine exchange at school. She originally wanted unicorns and rainbows, but I eventually convinced her to pick a candy. She opted for “chocolate candy hats” aka Hershey Kisses. I did some googling and opted to do Hugs and Kisses as the them.
Tilapia with Lemon Juice and Garlic
We make quite a bit of fish, so it is nice to find new recipes. This one has a slight kick, but you can reduce or remove the crushed red pepper if you want.
Pandemic Legacy Season Two Early November
After a confident game in October, we are now moving on to November.
January Fun
January was full of excitement and fun (aka my birthday). We have stayed busy for sure. I feel like we just celebrated New Year’s and here we are about to celebrate Valentine’s Day! Look at all the fun that was had this month below.
Valentine Wreath
So I have this grapevine style wreath that I used a long time ago to make a spring wreath. While the wreath was really cute and we used it often, the flowers on were starting to look faded from being used and in the sun so long. So we took all the things off and just hung it in our garage with the other wreaths I have. Well I had this idea about a week or so ago to use it to make a Valentine’s wreath. While it is not my favorite wreath I have ever made, I think it turned out pretty cute for a last minute put-together craft!
35
Earlier this week, I celebrated my 35th birthday. It was somewhat different this year due to COVID and our desire to still not eat out in public. But Melody had so much fun getting things ready, and Brad did so good himself. My birthday was made extra special!
Spinach and Tomato Frittata
This is another Noom recipe that I found both Brad and I really like. I changed the original recipe up some by doing it in muffin tins, and I prefer not using the tomatoes. So I add those in within the muffin tins to keep them out of mine. This is great reheated too.
Snow Day
Last week we had a very brief snow day. It literally only lasted until lunch, and we went about our day as if the snow didn’t exist (aka Melody still had school, ha). But we did get to go outside and let Melody run around for a little bit before school. She was so excited to see snow and it actually stick. She has seen snow before, but in her mind it should snow all winter. Poor girl doesn’t realize Alabama doesn’t work that way yet, ha.
2020 in review
I thought it might be fun to take a look back on last year through some pictures. Sure, it was one heck of a year, but we made the best of it. We spent a LOT of time together as a family, and we did come out with a lot of great memories, even if they were not the memories we expected to make! Follow along below!
Whole Wheat Turkey Sausage Balls
I love sausage balls, but between the pork (I am allergic) and bisquick (not great with Noom) it isn’t the best option for me. But with some research and creativity I found a great alternative - whole wheat turkey sausage balls!