5 Coffee Table Books

Have you ever walked into someone's home and noticed a stack of books on the coffee table? I always zone in on them in pictures too. I'm curious about the titles, if I can make them out, and I wonder if they actually read them or if they're simply part of the decor. Books give a house that cozy, homy feel so I wouldn't be surprised if some people have never even cracked open the ones that sit on that coffee table. But today I want to share with you 5 books that look nice on my coffee table or my nightstand but I have actually been reading. If you just want them for decoration, I can't blame you. I'm not judging either way.

The Year of Cozy - Written by a fellow fall lover and full of fun recipes and crafts, all divided by season, which totally speaks my language. 

The Magic of Motherhood - If this book doesn't remind you that we are all in this together as mamas, I don't know what would. It's a real + raw feel good read.

Gentle Babies - Essential oils have recently become a big part of our lives and I love learning more about how to use them most effectively for Fallon. 

The Magic of Tidying Up - If you are overwhelmed by the thought of sampling your life even just a little, this makes it a lot easier than you would ever think.

Celebrate Everything - If you ever want to plan an unforgettable party, you have to read this. Or maybe you just love all the inspiration and happiness of celebrations. 

I'm Lovin' It

I've decided that sharing things I'm currently loving shouldn't have to be reserved for Fridays. So these posts will just pop up from time to time whenever I feel like it! I somehow managed to roll into this weekend with my house clean, all the laundry caught up and my hair washed. Chocolate chip cookies were baked yesterday afternoon and we spent the evening with family. It may never happen again but man did it feel good. 

If you haven't noticed, I've been wearing the same pairs of slip on sneakers all the time lately. I saw these at Target last week and for $25 they had to be mine. 

One of our favorite brands for swaddle blankets just released some super adorable new prints. I am swooning over the grapefruit blanket and the fairy garden quilt for Fallon. 

I find myself in v neck tees so many days, worn alone or underneath a jacket or cardigan. I have several brands and styles but I have found a favorite. I might have to get every color!

A goal for this year is to simplify my life, starting with getting rid of things we don't use. This book is great if you're trying to do the same! 

We're also trying to get some better organization throughout our home so I picked up some new baskets to hold all the things we keep underneath our coffee table. It looks much nicer and everything now has a place so it can be put away. 

It might sound counterproductive to be buying more while attempting to simplify. But the idea is to get rid of what we don't love or no longer has a purpose and have things that make sense in our life. No dog bed has made more sense than these Coolaroo loungers. The dogs love them, they're super easy to clean, they're not total eyesores and you can vacuum right underneath them!

Happy weekending friends!

Friday I'm In Love

All around me the Christmas season has begun but I just can't get into it until after Thanksgiving. I mean, I'm super excited for Fallon's first Christmas but we are still in fall mode for another week around here. There will be no tree, no Christmas music, no cookies and no decorating until next weekend. I could say there will be no shopping but who am I kidding? It's just not Christmas shopping yet. Don't worry, as soon as black Friday hits there will definitely not be a shortage of holiday cheer in this house. In the meantime, one last favorites roundup until it's all Christmas Vacation, NSYNC & Mariah Carey on repeat, twinkle lights and toy stores. 

I'm pretty sure half of my closet is made up of Target finds. I also go for something else and come out with something new in my wardrobe. I just snagged this cardigan and it is the softest, coziest thing ever!

I love my booties this time of year but running around with Fallon all the time requires comfy shoes. It's pretty awesome that there are tons of cute and stylish sneaks out right now. I just got these and they literally feel like slippers, the perfect compliment to any momiform. 

If Fallon falls asleep while we are out and about the last thing I need is strangers getting too close. I love MilkSnob car seat covers and this new one for fall/winter is the cutest.

My friend sent me this article about what SAHMs really do all day. Even if you're working mama, this is a good one. I was literally laughing out loud.

This website has the coolest mom tees. I could make a case for this one, this one, or this one. Maybe all 3!

My mom hosts Thanksgiving dinner and didn't ask me to bring anything but I might show up with a plate of these anyway. 

There are countless sweet and cuddly stuffed dolls for kids out there but Cuddle + Kind dolls are extra special. Not only are they handmade, each doll purchase provides 10 meals to kids who only dream of Thanksgiving dinner. I melted seeing Fallon grab her doll's little hand. 

Friday I'm in Love

Fri-YAY!!! Where have you been? While it's definitely been a productive week around here, it's also been stressful. I had to fast for a blood test today which meant no coffee this morning. The horror. This mama is ready for some down time + a cold one. On the positive side, it's finally feeling like fall and that means lots of favorites. So many favorites. I won't bombard you with them all but it just wouldn't be right if I didn't share a few. 

I love navy nails for fall and I finally found the perfect shade. 

A neutral pair of booties is a staple in my fall wardrobe but I've been hesitant to go the open toe route. This pair changed my mind. 

I tend to be a bit of a candle hoarder all year long but the fall scents are by far and away my favorite.This one is at the top of the list, makes your house smell like pancakes.

I've been drooling over all the pumpkin and apple recipes on Pinterest but I absolutely must try these pumpkin gooey butter cakes. 

If you came to my house you might say I've gone a bit pumpkin crazy with my fall decor. But I added an adorable print to break up the madness. 

This isn't fall related but my sister showed me this hilarious video about breastfeeding in public and I'm a sucker for sarcastic humor. 

Have the happiest weekend friends!

Friday I'm in Love

Memorial Day weekend is always sort of the unofficial start of summer and it's coming up in just a week. Pool parties, grill outs, boating and in my case, a baby shower are on the calendar in NKY. You know I love to be festive so I couldn't resist a little roundup for a Friday post of some cute red, white and blue gear. And the best part is 4th of July is right around the corner so you use it all again!

Oh how I love stripes! This adorable tote also comes in gray + it's on sale! I might have to snag one.

 

If I had a pool I would absolutely have this to float my big ol' belly around on. Nothing says summer like a giant bomb pop.

 

I found these last week and couldn't pass them up. They are so cute and comfy and perfect for just about any occasion.

 

Another pattern I always gravitate to is gingham. How adorable is this retro tankini?!

 

I'm also totally loving all things tie-dye, especially in indigo, but this little red number is super fun.

 

I can't exactly pull off rompers right now, but as soon as I can I'll be picking up some new ones like this sweet eyelet style.

 

And really you just need a pair of aviators to complete the look. These are only $12 but don't look cheap so if you're like me and tend to lose them, no big deal.

 Happy Weekend!

Spring Style

Even though I'm pregnant this year I've still been trying to keep up in the style department and follow some of the trends this belly will allow. In NKY you just never know what kind of Spring whether is in store but this year has been on the warmer side so far and we've even had a few hot days already. I've always been a shorts wearing kind of girl and will probably forever love destroyed denim, which is EVERYWHERE. I hadn't planned on buying anything in this department until after this kid is born but when I saw these I had to give them a shot. I sized up and they actually fit underneath my belly, for now. I figure I'll still need some extra room this summer post-baby and if I'm magically back to my regular size before the end of summer they should still fit boyfriend style.

 

Button up shirts may not button anymore but luckily wearing them open over a tank or tee is stylish and bump-friendly. It's an easy look to throw together and the lightweight material of this, this (on sale!) or this (have it) make it warm weather appropriate. An added benefit is that they transition to fall as a layering piece.

One thing that definitely hasn't changed is my shoe size. This makes me very happy because shoes are my favorite accessory. You can probably tell I am all over the lace-up trend since I've already posted about these, these and these, but there are so many cute options! I'm especially drawn to them because they make a statement for an otherwise basic outfit and that's perfect for my current style. I've got these, these and these on my wish list. A girl can never have too many shoes.

I love that dresses of the swing, shift, t-shirt and baby doll variety are super stylish right now because they are perfect for a baby bump! I have this one, just bought this one and have my eye on this one. No waistline means you can go for the double scoop of ice cream!

 

Last year my mom bought me a pair of white skinny Joe's Jeans and I've worn them countless times since. I think the rule about wearing white pants strictly between Memorial Day and Labor Day has long been out the window in the fashion world and white jeans are great for all of Spring and Summer. I might not be able to button mine anymore but I'll belly band them until I can't get them on! Once I lose this belly I'd like a destroyed pair as well (surprise!) and love these, these and these.

 

Somebody have a cold one and cheers to the weekend for me please!

Friday I'm in Love

It is such a beautiful, sunny spring day that I wish I could just go lay outside on a blanket and daydream. Or sleep. But I figured while I count down to the weekend I'd share some fun Friday finds with you.

 

 

It's officially sandal season and I'm wearing these for the first time today. I have loved the look of lace up flats popping up everywhere but they seemed like they would be so uncomfortable. Nope. Unless I develop kankles I'll be rocking these all through summer.

 

Our master bedroom is getting some finishing touches slowly but surely and these curtains I snagged on sale just came in. I think they will be the perfect addition of some pattern and texture.

 

I may have one too many graphic tees/sweatshirts in my closet but then again, is that even possible? When I saw this one on sale last week I had to order it for my collection. I imagine it will be covered with fur, spit up and peanut butter by this summer, but that's kind of the point.

 

I'm hosting a bachelorette party for my BFF next month and I think I probably need one of these to display some of the treats I plan to serve. Her wedding has a modern rustic vibe that I want to bring to the party, plus it's totally my style anyway.

 

I really like Alex & Ani bracelets and wear mine all the time. This one is so fun and adds a little something extra to a stack.

 

So I've been eyeing this outdoor lantern for weeks. Our tax refund just hit our bank account today so we are going to order deck furniture and I think that means it's also time to pull the trigger on one (or two!) of these guys.

 

I've spent a lot of my first and second trimesters reading about pregnancy, birth and babies but there is only so much you can learn from words. Lately I've been loving reading blog posts about motherhood and how it's so unique yet so universal at the same time. I especially love this one because it just goes to show, you have to gain a lot of your knowledge through your own personal experience.

 

Happy Friday peeps!

Friday I'm in Love

You know when you have one of those days when it's just one thing after another going wrong or just annoying the crap out of you? Yesterday was one of those days. And of course I was being all 2nd trimester melodramatic about it. See, usually Thursday is a good day for 3 reasons.

 

1. I'm another week pregnant

2. Grey's Anatomy

3. It's Friday Eve

 

But yesterday was not good. Yesterday was stupid. That quickly became my word of the day. By the time I got home from work I was a total hot mess. Let's just say I had avocado in my hair, a bursting bladder and sweat beads rolling down my neck not to mention a brain so fried so I tried to use my phone to open our garage door. So natrually I went online and bought shoes. Sometimes retail therapy IS the answer. But today is a new day AND it's Friday! Since it's so far a million times better than Thursday, let's kick off the weekend with some favorites.

 

 

Espadrilles are apparently all the rage this spring and I'm hopping right on the wagon. I happily used a 20% code I had last night to stop me from having a complete meltdown to order these beauties. I'm a sucker for stripes and I think it's fun that they can be both a neutral or a statement piece for probably a gazillion outfits.

 

If you've been following along here or on Instagram @hkpfeff523 you've seen my weekly pregnancy updates, aka bumpdates, or so I'm told. I've yet to really use any props because honestly, trying to get a good picture each week is hard enough. But I found these adorable wooden blocks that I just could not pass up. I can use them to count down the rest of my pregnancy and/or use them for cute pictures when baby P is born plus they can later be used as toys or room décor.

 

Clearly I'm a huge fan of Essie nail polish. It seems like I'm almost always posting about a new color I've tried or an old favorite. If you're looking for the perfect neutral I've got you covered. Not only is this color really light but opaque, great for done up nails that won't compete with a bright outfit, it has a fun name. Yes, I'm one of those people that bet on horses based solely on the name and ignore all the important factors. I won a good chunk of change once on Popsicle Toes so don't knock my strategy.

 

I have an army green military style jacket that I can confidently say is the most worn clothing item in my entire closet. And that's saying a lot because I kind of have a robust wardrobe. #confessionsofashopaholic. I've yet to pull the trigger on a vest version for the warmer seasons but I have my eye on this one. Maybe when it inevitably goes on sale for 40% off I will snag it.

 

Decorating our new living room is still an ongoing project but so far I'm loving the neutral color palette. This will make it so easy to swap out accent pieces and add color when I need a change or want to compliment the season (which I ALWAYS do). Our sectional couch just screams for throw pillows, even though Chris likes to repeatedly ask what the purpose of having so many is. Because they're pretty. Duh. These are a great price and look springy but not like something you'd find on Grandma's decades old couch. Right?

 

Dress season is upon us and I'm especially into them this year since they make covering my growing belly much less of a challenge. I saw this pretty maxi on a fashion blogger and had to check it out for myself immediately. I really love the simple, flowy style and variety of beautiful colors it comes in. I haven't ordered it simply because of the price point. But I'm thinking it may be justified since it's a pretty classic look that I could fit the bump under and of course wear after munchkin's arrival since it's not maternity.

Friday I'm in Love

 

Spring officially starts this weekend but I guess Mother Nature didn’t get the memo. After a couple weeks of having very Spring-like weather, we are now supposed to be dipping back down into the 40s. Wah. Of course that’s not stopping me from ogling all the pastels and florals popping up everywhere for the season. I’m a sucker for a pretty flowy dress and especially being pregnant this year, I’ll probably be wearing them often. I mean how gorgeous is this floral number?  

I also cannot get enough of knotted baby hats. I have been seeing them everywhere and finally had to break down and grab a few of these for this little one on the way. I’m pretty sure the mama is allowed to buy a few things before the baby shower just for fun.

I’m really excited to finally put together the gallery wall I’ve slowly been accumulating pieces for in our living room. Chris and I both love the look of reclaimed barn wood and it’s so neutral, the possibilities are endless. I found this window frame and couldn’t pass it up for the price.

 I’ve always been plagued with dry skin but this year my lips seem to be worse than usual so I was glad to find a sample of this balm I hadn’t yet tried in my makeup box. I slathered it on overnight and in the morning my lips were hydrated and butter soft so I’ve been using it every night!

Warmer weather will mean long evening and weekend walks so that calls for some new doggie treats. We like to reward the pups for good behavior with treats that are both delicious and healthy. While anything with liver in it doesn’t sound appetizing in the least to me, it’s typically a big hit with our dogs.

Happy Weekend!

Friday I'm in Love

I’m so excited Friday has come again but I can’t get over this ridiculous weather we are having. One day it’s sunny and I’d swear it feels like Spring and the next we’re barely above freezing with snow flurries. Say what? I think the best plan of action for getting dressed is layers. Then I just peel them off throughout the day if necessary. Of course an iced coffee goes with any outfit so I’m all set.

We just got our new couch delivered this week and I never thought I’d be so in love with a piece of furniture. I’ve always liked a nice neutral look and Chris and I both wanted a sectional but I didn’t think it would be so easy to find something with the right price. While shopping with my mom we lucked out on a President’s Day sale with free delivery and so far, we couldn’t be happier with the purchase. We even paid a bit extra for the non-toxic stain resistant coating since we live in a zoo and have a human baby exhibit set to open this summer. It came with 6 throw pillows but I’m opting to just keep 2 and choose my own patterns for the rest. I just ordered a few from this Etsy shop and can’t wait to add them!

And speaking of décor, I ordered this print for the big gallery wall above the couch I’m planning and this print for something pretty and seasonal  to frame on our sofa table. Since taking down the festive Valentine’s Day pieces things are looking a bit bare again so I also grabbed this cute egg crate and these springy berry baskets as the season gets ready to change over.

I think I’ve done a pretty good job of controlling my intense desire to buy all the baby things but I could not pass up this beautiful swaddle. I have a thing for both elephants and navy blue plus it’s gender neutral, will work with the navy accent color we have decided on in the nursery and is beyond adorable. I’m currently working my way through this book because it’s been recommended by so many people and since I was reading all about swaddling I figured I should get at least one to practice. See, my baby purchase is totally reasonable.

Happy Friday!

Friday I'm in Love

Valentine's Day is 2 days away and I've always been a fan of this winter holiday celebrating love. Of course we should make sure the people we love know it every day but I certainly don't see anything wrong with devoting one specific day to it. Plus, there's chocolate. Who cares if you don't have a significant other? My first Valentine was my dad. Yours could be a parent, a best friend, a kid or a furbaby. There are no rules when it comes to love.

In the spirit of this day devoted to love I made some easy treats to share at work and wore my favorite pink sweater. I had all the things on hand to make these Oreo treats but the ingredients are easy to come by and you could definitely improvise. I used traditional double stuffed Oreos and cinnamon bun Oreos, dipping them in either vanilla almond bark or chocolate candiquik. Add some festive sprinkles and lay them on wax paper or foil to dry and voila, you have a sweet festive treat.

And speaking of chocolate and treats, have you tried Starbucks limited edition Molten Chocolate latte or frappuccino? If not you better hurry because it's only sticking around through Sunday. The baby insisted on the frappuccino this afternoon and I guess I'm already a total pushover.

It may not be important to some people, but I am very picky about my loungewear. It has to be comfy and cute so that I can roll out of the house in it if I want to. I love the simple but adorable design of this ILY Couture sweatshirt, it's super soft and it's perfect for Valentine's Day!

I don't change my phone case very often, mostly because it's a pain and one more thing to think about. When I upgraded to the iPhone 6 last year I immediately ordered a phone cover but I drop my phone ALL THE TIME. The one I got was cute but not all that durable and I need durability. I stumbled across one from Scarlet & Gold Shop that I've had ever since and gotten a gazillion compliments on. But it's been over 6 months and I was ready for a switch up, conveniently just as they restocked the case I've had my eye on. It is SO pretty and these cases must be made of armor or something because they can take the beating I dish out with barely a scratch.

Since we are finally getting around to decorating our new house I have been looking for pieces for a big living room gallery wall. I found this adorable burlap letter P and couldn't pass it up for the price. I'm not sure how everything will come together yet but I will definitely find a place for this guy.

A few of you asked me what kinds of workouts I do from home during pregnancy. I love Fitness Blender workouts, pregnant or not, because there are a variety to choose from on YouTube for free and the girl in all of them is very easy to follow and in shape but doesn't seem unattainably so. This one is my go to right now because I can do pretty much the whole routine without modifications and feel like I've had a great workout in under a half an hour plus you don't even need any equipment.

Have a wonderful day of love friends!

Friday I'm in Love

TGIF! I’m extra excited about this weekend because our bathroom update is going full throttle. I cannot wait to show y’all pictures of it when it’s finished. Some of you asked about our new fixtures I posted about and they are all from Home Depot. It is amazing what a new light fixture can do for a space. The new fixtures for our bathroom are replacing the old school dressing room bulb look that I can’t stand. I am so sorry if this is your style, it’s just not mine! I have some other new favorites to go along with the post name update this week so let’s get to it.

 Yesterday was my girl Kristina’s birthday so I whipped up some lemon squares for her because she loves all the lemon things. I used this recipe and added my own twist with a bit of vanilla and lemon JELLO mix. It was so easy and although I didn’t try them myself (wasn’t feeling the lemon) she did and gave it the seal of approval.

I have never been a foundation wearing girl. It’s not that I think I don’t need it but rather that I tried several different kinds years ago and never found one I liked so I gave up. Pregnancy has been kind to my skin this trimester and I mentioned loving the new Philosophy products I received as gifts for Christmas, but some days I feel like I look a bit washed out. I have been wanting to try BB Cream as an alternative to foundation just to even things out and give my face a boost. I researched and read reviews and finally purchased this one via Amazon. I cannot even believe how much of a difference it makes without looking or feeling like I’ve buried my skin under layers of makeup. I absolutely love this and now I’m not afraid to test out some other brands since I know this one is a keeper!

In our house we love blankets. Lots and lots of blankets. You might even say we are blanket hoarders. Okay, it’s not really that bad. We have 2 sets, one for the humans and one for the furbabies. When the old ones get ratty they go to the furbabies and when theirs get ruined, well, they go to blanket heaven. Since it’s pretty easy for blankets to get beat up when dogs use them with their claws and slobber and the occasional accident, we buy them cheap. Typically we get fleece blankets from Old Navy for $5-$10 depending on the sales they have going on but I came upon some for $2.88 yesterday and had to stock up.

The new Lucy & Co. hoodies I ordered for the boys came in this week and I can’t get over how cute they look in them. These fit my little monsters so well and look so adorable I want to buy them in every style! I might even have to get the Hello Apparel matching tee for mama.

Did you know that dogs can have sensitive tummies just like humans? Well, a lot of people don’t! We’ve known since he was a baby that Chaos is one of those dogs. Our Pittie is just sensitive all the way through.  It’s not the most fun thing to do, but checking out your dog’s doo doo is a surefire way to tell if there’s a problem. First of all, they shouldn’t have to go #2 all the time and it shouldn’t consistently be soft or diarrhea like. Your vet will tell you that dog poop can tell you a whole lot about the health of your pup so even though it’s icky, if you pay attention you could learn something! Back to my point, the trainer Chris is working with gave a recommendation for Show Stopper. It’s an antioxidant blend for dogs that has really seemed to make a difference for not just Chaos but Ares as well. They have shinier coats, shed less and digestion seems like a much smoother process if you know what I mean.

Friday Favorites

Schools closed early or closed all together, grocery stores were raided for milk and bread and the rest of us watched out the windows at work awaiting the snow storm. Well after a full day of nothing, Winter Storm Jonas finally decided to show up. I'm cozy on the couch, pups by the fire, HGTV on as I write this, watching the snow fall. My mind has been on dog training, home decorating and baby registry research lately but a girl has got to make time to find some new favorites right? 

I mentioned Bundle Organics in my 15 week post. These drinks aren't cheap but they are so delicious and I feel so good knowing I'm getting amazing nutrients in my body for me and for baby.

All this planning has me typing up notes on my computer at work, my laptop and my phone. 2 weeks into the year I decided I really needed a planner and I love the cute cover on this one. If I'm going to carry it around with me all the time it has to be pretty to look at!

Lucy & Co. has some of the best hoodies for pups around. The fit is perfect for Ares and Chaos and I can't get over how adorable the new heathered blue and gray designs are.

I've been hearing all about this Boom Chicka Pop popcorn so I finally picked up 2 flavors at the store last week. Beyond the beautiful packing, this stuff is delicious. But I am warning you, it's addicting!

As y'all know I've been on a sweets kick with the pregnancy big time. I love waffles and was practically drooling on the keyboard when I found this recipe to make them with cake batter. The waffle iron we got for our wedding will be put to good use making these babies. I'm thinking we might even need some snow cream on top since fresh snow is now available.

Happy Weekend!