It’s been two whole months since I last checked in here, and I can’t even believe it. At this point, I honestly just don’t know what this space is going to to look like going forward. Some of the updates I’m going to share below definitely play into that. But rather than try to give something a label, or attempt to commit myself to some sort of posting cadence, I’m just going to continue to check in when it feels right AND when I can find the time(!).
With that said, here’s a running list of all sort of stuff that’s been happening over the past two months.
1. Despite all of the COVID related restrictions this year, we were still able to enjoy our annual family apple picking day.
2. Let’s be honest though…the cider donuts are one of the best parts of apple picking, aren’t they?!
3. And speaking of cider donuts…add one to a sundae with loads of caramel and soft vanilla ice cream and good lord, it’s heaven.
4. I still have yet to take part in any pumpkin coffee drinks this season (crazy, considering the fanatic I used to be), but I have been loving my Dunkin’ pumpkin munchkins.
5. Back in September, I decided to chop my hair a bit.
6. Then last weekend, I decided to chop off even more. Because hey, why not?
7. I’m still loving strength training, and have been averaging 3-4 strength training days/week. BUT, I’ve recently become somewhat intrigued by the Peleton bike as a different form of cardio exercise on my non-strength training days. I feel like anyone I’ve spoken to that has one LOVES it, but it really is quite an investment so I’m not totally on board just yet. Unlessssss any of you are able to convince me otherwise…?
8. The boys are back in school! This is Alex’s last year of preschool, and Lucas started 2nd grade, and so far…all things considered…things have been going really, really well.
9. They’ve both got somewhat of a hybrid model happening at their schools, with Lucas in school 2 days a week/home three, and Alex in school 2 mornings a week/1 morning remote. While I would LOVE to have them in person full time, I’m trying to just remain thankful that we’re at least able to maintain their part time remote work from home, while Jay and I also continue to work our own jobs from home.
10. Speaking of work, I got a promotion! I had been working toward this move since the beginning of 2020, and I couldn’t be more thrilled about it. I’ve now taken on more of a project management role, and while it definitely requires a bit more time and attention, I feel like I’m finally using my brain and skills in a way that I haven’t had to in a long time. And I love it. So, take that, 2020.
11. I have become absolutely OBSESSED with this Target sweater. So much so, that I’ve purchased it in four different colors so far. It’s crazy comfortable, and I ordered up a size (size large for me) so it would have a bit more of a roomy/relaxed fit. It’s perfect for fall, winter, and working from home, and it’s only $20!
The dirty mirror is BACK!
12. I also fell in love with this Abercrombie sweater (currently on clearance!) that I purchased back in September when Sister Studio launched her collection with them. They have limited stock/sizes right now, but I’d totally recommend checking to see if they have yours, especially with it being on sale.
13. And if we’re talking about clothing that I’ve recently fallen in love with, than I also have to include these joggers. There have been many days lately where I’m totally ‘Zoom presentable’ for work up top, but I’m definitely sporting these on the bottom (for reference, I have them in a medium and they are plenty roomy!).
14. Watching Lucas play soccer this year has become so much more fun than the past couple of years. He’s at the age where they’re finally, actually starting to play more of a game…as a team…rather than the coaches basically herding cats and trying to stop everyone on the field from chasing the ball at once. Seriously though, his games have become one of my favorite weekend activities. <3
15. Our Butcher Box deliveries have been knocking it outta the park lately. We’ve been getting a box every six-ish weeks or so since March, and everything we get always tastes so fresh, tender, and delicious. Their signups were actually on hold for a few months, but they’ve since opened them back up. And if you want to give them a shot, you can use this referral code to snag $15 off your first box!
16. As bored as I get with making them all the time, I must admit…I do make a pretty mean salad. And pretzel Goldfish crackers have become my new favorite “crunch” to add to them lately.
17. Out of all the holidays out there, Halloween is most definitely my favorite one to decorate our mantle for.
18. I feel like this quote really speaks to how my heart has been feeling lately. Which is a big reason for why I’ve been somewhat quiet on social media.
19. If there was ever a graphic to fully capture all of the little things that can easily make my day…
Seriously. Every single one of them.
20. I was so sad to have to let go of summer this year, not knowing what kind of fall/winter we’ll be looking at.
21. And, is it just me, or did the sun suddenly go from setting at like, 8:30pm to 6:30pm overnight?! One bonus to that, is that movie nights have returned (and my kids only like doing them when it’s dark out, hence the bonus).
22. After years of contemplating it, I’m getting my first tattoo next month. I’ve been working with Simple Sally Designs on a small, simple design, and I can’t wait. We’ve had a bunch of back and forth, but this was the first round of designs that she shared with me.
I’ll be sure to share the final result once I have it!
23. The boys have moved on from their love of battery powered cars to quads (they have these, which were given for birthdays this summer from the family), and they love to cruise around in the yard with some of their other neighborhood buddies who happen to have the same ones.
24. Not gonna lie…they’re also really fun for adults, too.
25. I feel like there are so many other random things that have happened over the past couple of months that I could share, but because I’ve been much more lax about photographing everything (simply for the sake of sharing it on social media), I don’t have the evidence to show for it!
Okay, wellllll, I think that should catch us up to speed a bit. I honestly, really do want to make my way back to this space more often, but between working from home, with a new job, while also trying to help kiddos through their school work…well, there just aren’t enough hours in the day! So I’m not sure when I’ll be back to chat, but thank you to all of you who are still here reading this today, and to those who have checked in while I was gone for a bit. You’re all the best.
Stay well! <3
Kimberly says
Seeing this post has seriously brightened up my Friday morning!! Thank you for the updates. Love the tattoo ideas- you can’t go wrong with any of those designs. You are inspiring me to get some new sweaters. The ones you posted look fabulous on you. Hope your Friday is great!
Courtney says
That is so kind of you to say, thanks Kimberly!!
Molly says
So good to hear from you! Love the short hair! And check out the Echelon spin bike… less expensive, same features, universal spin shoe clip/sneaker clip! If you have a Costco membership, they pay shipping, warranty and first year of subscription!
Courtney says
Awesome, thanks! We don’t have Costco here…! :(
Leanne says
I bit the bullet and invested in the peloton bike and over the last four months it has changed me not only physically but mentally! The instructors are uplifting and inspiring and it makes me a better mom 💯. If you can swing it, I highly recommend it. I used to do orangetheory and I love my bike more!
alissa preciado says
I completely agree, I love mine and all the freedom it brings as well. I have canceled my gym membership and use the app for all the other classes as well! I am so glad I ordered one in February!!!
Courtney says
That’s so awesome!!!
Lauri says
Love the hair!!
I can’t speak to the Pelaton bike BUT I use the Pelaton app on my phone for other workouts and I love it! They have every type of class you can imagine. I especially love the strength classes and the run/walk interval workouts. The instructors are great, music is great and so many options!
Courtney says
Yes, I tried out the 3 month trial of the app over the summer and it was great! I really liked some of their strength classes!!
Sara says
Love posts like this….feels like what blogging used to be before everyone moved onto swipe ups. I also appreciate enjoying the moment and not just taking pics for social media.
Andie says
I totally agree! Your post is a welcome breath of fresh air. 😊
Courtney says
Thank youuuuu!!! It felt good to be back! <3
Courtney says
I miss the old days of blogging so much!
Katie says
LOVE your hair! I thought you looked like Jennifer Aniston in that pic! :)
Glad to hear you guys are doing well and congrats on the promotion! Sounds like a lot is going on, but it’s all positive, so that’s good!
If you are flexible in terms of not having your stats appear for Peloton, I would recommend getting the Schwinn IC4 bike (it’s $900). I bought it in the beginning of quarantine and just used the Peloton app for the cycling workouts. The app connects to the bike (but I didn’t usually connect it cause I don’t like looking at my stats during class – it brings out the exercise-obsession part of me that I don’t like). Plus, the app is MUCH cheaper than the monthly subscription you pay for with the bike, and you have the flexibility to do other cycling classes with a non-Peloton bike. I like GCN (Global Cycling Network) spin classes on Youtube and can’t wait to try the Zwift app. I actually no longer have the Peloton app cause the instructors were starting to annoy me. But I will say, I do the bike 3x a week and have been for 6 months and the bike is still holding strong!
Courtney says
Thanks so much for the tip, Katie!! I’ll definitely look into these other options!
Dena Lindeman says
I agree with Sara – I love how blogs used to be (like yours is now) where you just share your family, tips, tricks, food, clothing, etc…..now it is all “how much can I make from these people who follow me?” :( I’m always happy to used affiliate links (actually bought PHLUR perfume from one of yours), as long as I feel the poster/blogger is genuine. And you definitely are. Thank you for keeping it REAL!
Vanessa says
I love reading your blog so I’ll be reading as long as you’re blogging! I love your hair and tattoo idea!! I have been toying with the idea of getting a tattoo but I’m not sure if I’m brave enough lol!
Courtney says
Aww, thank you, Vanessa! Hey, if there was ever a year to go do something you’ve been toying with, lol…I say go for it!
Alyssa says
I have so missed your clothing recommendations! I purchased a couple things today!
I have been debating getting a Peloton after I saw how much The Runner Beans uses hers. It is an investment, but especially living in the northern midwest, I get so much use out of my home gym equipment during the winter that it’s a splurge I’m normally willing to make
Courtney says
Yay!! Hopefully you got some good stuff! :)
Naomi says
Congratulations on your promotion! And I love your hair! Happy to see a post from you, I always enjoy your updates whenever and however you share them :) Have a great weekend!
Courtney says
Thanks so much, Naomi! <3
Brenna says
I’ve always loved reading your blog for years! These posts are my favorite as others have said, thank you for sharing.
I don’t have a Peloton bike, but I love the Peloton app! It’s $12.99 a month with unlimited classes. I have a no-name spin bike I bought off of Amazon, and I stream workouts through the Peloton app on my Firestick (phone works too!). Great alternative in my opinion.
Courtney says
Thanks for the tip, Brenna! I’ve heard this from a few people, too
Shashashaqueefa says
We’ve missed you Courntey! Glad you and the family are well!
Courtney says
Thank you! :)
Melissa says
Always great to hear from you, Courtney! Big congrats on the promotion, especially while WFH and doing remote learning with the boys. Awesome accomplishment :)
Courtney says
Thanks so much, Melissa!
Carrie says
Great to “hear” from you again. Long time reader.
Courtney says
Thanks, Carrie!!
Liz says
I absolutely LOVE your hair!! That cut looks soooo good on you. Glad you’re doing well!
Courtney says
Thanks, Liz!! It was a fun change! :)
Diane says
The hair! The promotion! The decorating! The boys! The sweaters! The ice cream photo! The fitness chat!
Just love your blog posts so much. Thank you for the updates!
Courtney says
You are so sweet, thank you Diane!
Julie F says
SO glad to hear from you again. Even if it’s just once a month or longer.
And I too love the hair
Courtney says
Thanks, Julie!! :)
Brianne says
It was so good to see this post! I have read your blog for years and truly appreciate your writing. You are so down to earth, real and honest and its something I can really relate to! I love your hair! it always looks amazing but short is beautiful on you! Thanks for the sweater recommendations I need to spruce up my wardrobe. Your tattoo ideas are great! I have 2 tattoos for my girls and they are my absolute favorite out of all my ink (they are slightly addicting LOL). Glad you are all doing well and congrats on your promotion!!
Courtney says
Thank you so much, Brianne!!
Ashley says
Happy to see you back! Hope that you will continue to check in when you can, but of course understand how busy things are. Congratulations on the promotion! I’m loving those tattoo designs, too.
Courtney says
Thanks so much, Ashley!
Ari says
Long time reader first time commenting! Love your blog so much and thank you for posting! <3
Courtney says
Aww, thank you for taking the time to comment, Ari!!
Melissa says
I was so glad to see your post and glad to catch up with your highlights! Last year, on my birthday, I finally took the leap and got my own tattoo after contemplating it for so many years. My reasoning for getting it is because of the inspirational reminder it provides me with. Sure I could wear jewelry with inspiring words, but its not always comfortable and I don’t always remember.
To me, a tattoo is something I could get and always look at without having to remember to put it on. I think you’ll really enjoy and be pleased with whatever tattoo you get and I wish you the best of luck with it! If you ever have any questions about it, such as with the experience, healing process, etc, please feel free to reach out anytime! I look forward to seeing what you choose!
sarah says
LOVE our peloton! Honestly I would have to say my husband uses it more than me. He is on it every morning without fail. I am loving having the option of a solid workout now without having to leave the house. I love the option of class lengths from 10-90 minutes. If I just want to move my legs a little I can jump on for a quick ten minutes but I will say – a lot of times they are harder than a 45 minute class. I recently had a miscarriage and was off of the bike for three weeks post surgery and I actually missed the bike. This is huge for me because I am not a fitness fanatic. It is more than a bike – it is therapy. The first time I got back on the bike and took a class – I cried happy tears! I found a class I knew would be happy and positive and let all the water works explode of everything that we had just dealt with. I am sure a million people have already offered it but I have a referral code that will take $100 off of the bike – happy to send it along to you. It isn’t a huge discount – but it is something!
Avery says
Courtney – long time reader and so happy to hear from you again! I love your tattoo ideas! Where are you planning on getting it? I never considered myself a “tattoo person” until I decided to get one on my 34th birthday after years of struggling through IVF. It’s a rose (my middle name) with an infinity symbol behind my ear and these days, I often forget about it until someone mentions it. When I am reminded of it, I feel a secret sense of pride at my strength and a reminder of what I went through. Can’t wait to see how yours turns out!
Mary Burns says
So great to see that you and your family are doing well! I love your hair! Have a wonderful weekend!
Christina says
Loved this catch up post and I really love your tattoo ideas! So dainty and beautiful, can’t wait to see the finished product. Peloton is 100% worth it, especially for someone like you who stays consistent with at home workouts. You will love it!
Tabitha Cain says
Peloton-YES do it! Love mine and they continue to add new workouts like Barre and Bike Bootcamp! So much fun and 100% motivating. LOVE your hair! Wish I was brave enough to make a drastic change and cut mine, I mean now would probably be an ideal time to do it since I rarely even leave the house anymore so if I hated it there would be time for it to grow back :) Ahhhhh loving the tattoo ideas! I always said I would get one and incorporate my kids initials into it and have yet to do it. Can’t wait to see what you choose. Also, I miss your posts but totally understand! Wishing you all the best on your promotion!
WEB DESIGN IN KERALA says
WEB DESIGN IN KERALA
Welcome to Web Design in Kerala, the premier web design company in Kollam, Kerala, offering insightful websites with a strong focus on SEO strategy. Our team of trained and talented web developers possesses a deep understanding of Kerala culture and takes the time to truly comprehend your business requirements. We have extensive experience in handling web design projects not only in Kollam but also in various other parts of India and around the world. Wherever you are located, our dedicated team will invest time to understand your business and provide the best web design solution.
https://webdesigninkerala.in/