Easter!

We had such a great weekend, but Sunday was definitely the highlight. Easter is always a favorite time of year for us - the weather gets warmer, you get to spend a little more time with family, and we celebrate the fact that Jesus is risen!!

We went to brunch with my Grandparents and brother after church and holy YUM. I forgot how delicious Bob Evans' endless caramel mocha is (it's basically hot chocolate with a splash of coffee and a whole lot of goodness on top)! They have an all new brunch menu so THREE of them got the chicken & waffles and they let me sneak a bite or two! ;)

Once Caleb and I got home, we had ourselves one heck of a productive day! Caleb ran down to the basement randomly and just started bringing up a ton of storage tubs to "go through". Well this turned into a full on project and we threw SO much stuff away...we're talking SIX TUBS WORTH! That's "spring cleaning" if I've ever seen it! ;)

We paused a couple times to really focus on the Warriors game (which ended with a W!!!), have ourselves a yummy dinner and watch a movie before bed. We were so thankful to have a day off to ourselves! I hope everyone had a great Easter!

Happy Monday, friends!

Dear Caleb,

Caleb,

Thanks for pursuing me, even when I'm not very nice.

Thanks for kissing my eyes when I have a bad headache.

Thanks for cleaning the house on your days off.

Thanks for encouraging me when I'm feeling down.

Thanks for making me laugh every. single. stinking. day.

Thanks for gifting me my first Bible 8 years ago today (wow)!

Thanks for being a kid at heart, and reminding me life isn't always serious.

Thanks for lighting my favorite pineapple candle before I come home.

Thanks for explaining movie plots to me when I'm totally lost.

Thanks for your morning texts.

Thanks for always making me feel safe.

Thanks for always cooking breakfast on Saturdays.

Thanks for being the most selfless person I know.

Thanks for being my best friend.

Thanks for being you.

You're amazing, and I not only LOVE you, I really, really like you, too!

-K

Laughter, rest, repeat.

I can't explain how amazing it was to have FOUR whole days off to enjoy with friends and family. It was like hitting the big RESET button on my soul.

We normally spend Thanksgiving day with my Dad's side of the family, but he's currently on vacation so we switched it up this year and spent it with my mom's side of the family! My mom is still in Maine on her nursing assignment, so we all missed her, but we had a great time! The day was full of family, one deep fried turkey and one roasted, tons of homemade sides, board games and way too much laughter!

Say hello to Pioneer Woman herself ;)

Thursday, after all the time with family was over, we headed to a few stores and got some fun deals, and stayed out WAY too late. Friday we got a LOT done. We felt like real adults ;) we visited Caleb's grandma in the morning, de-cluttered, donated stuff' we seriously got rid of so much junk in our house! We crashed HARD that evening and watched a movie, and seriously passed out on the couch around 9:30!

Saturday, after throwing MORE stuff away and doing an insane amount of laundry, we watched the OSU game and phew! It was a nail biter! Luckily, we pulled out a win against the team from up North ;) and then we were in full on CHRISTMAS MODE! We decorated for a good hour or two and just had ourselves a blast. It's always one of my favorite traditions with Caleb, bringing up all the decorations from the basement and finding new places for them!

Olaf and that sign may or may not be my favorite decoration ever.

My girl Lyndsie was in town and reached out last minute to see if I was free for dinner! I'm so glad I went, even though I was exhausted from decorating, because she and I don't get much time together anymore and we laughed our heads off for hours.

Sunday was deemed the laziest day of our lives; and I kind of loved it. Once we got home from church we witnessed one of the saddest Bengals losses in history (so THAT obviously wasn't fun), but it kept us glued to the couch. We watched an insane amount of Impractical Jokers after that - we're hooked - and had cinnamon rolls for dinner...go ahead, judge us. But we literally didn't do anything but park it on the couch most of the day.

I am so thankful for time off with Caleb! We don't get that much anymore and it was much needed. I really hope everyone had a fantastic break and got to spend it with those you love the most!!

Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween!

Caleb and I enjoyed an amazing few days at home together last week and I can't wait to share it all with you guys! For now, though, its HALLOWEEN! We're kind of lame and didn't plan fun costumes this year. But hey, life happens! I'm absolutely okay with passing out candy tonight and maybe throwing on a ton of Bengals gear and passing it off as a "super fan" at the last minute? ;) Then heading back inside to watch a scary movie with my man!

Once upon a time, we used to get VERY into Halloween. The first year we were together we had a huge bowling party (which doubled as Caleb's 21st party) and it was way too much fun! Everyone went all out with the creative costumes! Year after year we went to an epic family party (we're talking they rented a tent, had a huge bonfire, themed food, best dressed trophies, etc.), and just had way too much fun celebrating the day.

While this year will be a little more low key, I'm still excited about it!

Anyone dressing up with a super creative costume tonight?! I want photos!!
Happy Halloween, friends!

Weekend Perfection

This weekend was everything I needed it to be. No major obligations, and full of time with my favorite people. I spent some quality time by myself Saturday morning while Caleb had some other obligations. I took myself on a nice long run, then spent some time baking in the kitchen! Guys, these oreo truffles I posted about Friday turned out amazing. Think cake pops, in the shape of Reese eggs basically. Heaven, right?

Saturday was amazing! We finally used a gift card for lunch out, then stopped by the theater to see Batman vs. Superman. To be honest? It was kinda slow, and I'm just such a fan of the Avengers, so I was kind of biased walking in. Regardless, it was still fun to spend time with my man all day! We went home that evening and enjoyed some quality time with our couch :)

Easter was perfect. The amazing weather, an incredible message at Church, and so much time with my family! I couldn't get enough.

After church, we stopped by my Dad's for lunch and corn hole. It was so nice spending so much time outside.

After that, we stopped by my Nanny & Buddy's. It was awesome just spending hours around the lake fishing and playing with their pups. I love time with them! It doesn't happen near as often as we'd like, and I'm reminded this weekend how important family is.

One of the coolest things about this day, though? The adorable basket Caleb made me. We haven't normally done these in the past, but he made my whole day with this one! The "pack of gum" was actually filled with adorable notes from him, too. I swear, he's the best!

This was the exact kind of relaxing weekend I needed before the craziness of April begins! I'm honestly feeling refreshed, inspired and ready to go! Hope all of you had an awesome Easter!

Christmas overload!

Christmas rocked. We had 4 total Christmas gatherings, and I actually got overwhelmed once Sunday night hit and I saw our house - in a total mess - covered in presents and wrapping paper. What a blessing! Let me back up.

Thursday I actually got out of work early, and we met with my Dad's side of the family like we usually do. It was a blast... pizza was ordered and lots of mountain dew was consumed! One of my favorite presents? I got a fitbit! I'm really excited to get that baby charged and start on my fitness goals!!!!! I've really let myself go the past 3-4 months and I'm ready to get back on track.

BUT - my favorite gift from them was all of my old dance uniforms (from ages 3 and up) It absolutely made me cry. I had no idea my Dad kept all of that stuff! It was a box full of them, and at the bottom, there were 2 baby blankets I didn't even know existed that my grandmother had knit before I was born. I'm so thankful for these possessions! I can only hope for a little girl one day to remake all of my silly dance photos :)

Christmas morning with Caleb is DEFINITELY one of my favorite days of the year. Something about it is just so fun. We wake up in no rush at all, take our sweet time exchanging some presents, and eat donuts and/or brownies. I love knowing how much thought we both put into the gifts we have for each other, and getting to see his reaction is my favorite part. He did SO well in the gift department, as always. But I do have to say... my favorite part of Christmas is just spending so much time together and with our families!

We always go to my Nanny and Buddy's house for brunch, along with my aunt, uncle, and 2 cousins! My mom only has one brother, so we're very close with them and my only 2 first cousins. They make life so fun!!

We read our notes of thankfulness that we all wrote on Thanskgiving, per our annual tradition, and a few of them made me tear up.

Saturday Caleb and I (believe it or not) got started on NEXT CHRISTMAS, ALREADY!!! We've designated a box in the basement solely for future christmas presents so we don't forget where they are/what we've already bought. It wasn't much, but hey, its a start.

Sunday we had our Christmas with Caleb's family and it was a blast, as well! Just recapping all of this is making me so thankful, all over again! His parents love to get extra silly with the gifts which added lots of extra laughter. We got an awesome griddle for our counter so I can make all the pancakes EVER, the cutest polaroid post-it holder, and lots of other awesome goodies!!

I've taken a bit of a blogging break these last few days and its been kind of nice. Just trying to enjoy all that these last days of the year have to offer! Although I have to say, I can't wait to see what 2016 has in store for us!! :) 

Merry Christmas!!!

We hope you and yours have the merriest Christmas of all!! Enjoy what these next few days have to offer, drink way too much hot chocolate, and don't forget your festive hats ;)

MERRY CHRISTMAS, FRIENDS!!!

It's easy to get caught up

Usually, this is the time of year (aka: a few short days from Christmas) that I am in freak-out mode trying to finish all my shopping, cleaning the house, doing the laundry and making sure I have everything in order for the upcoming holiday. For some reason though, this year its a little different. Caleb and I have made sure to be more intentional with our time to really make the most of it.

Like last night, we were able to slow down and grab dinner with some of our dearest friends. We talked about everything from video games to pursuing dreams, from kraft cheese to career paths. 

It's so easy this time of year to get caught up in making sure you have all the items on your to-do list checked off, and while that's still important, don't let it take you away from the REAL reason of the season.

Sure, I still have a few small things left to do before I get off at lunch tomorrow, but I'm going to make sure that even if they don't all get done - I'll still be able to enjoy everything Christmas Eve and Christmas Day have to offer. There is too much fun to be had! I just won't allow myself to freak out over the tiny things that really no one else cares about but me. I'm excited to spend the next few days with my closest friends and family, sip WAY too much of my aunts famous iced coffee, and take too many blurry light photos.

The one thing I'm a little bummed about is that it hasn't really FELT like Winter here lately. Which, I kind of feel bad complaining about because who really ASKS for snow!? Well, I'm being that girl. It'd be amazing to actually see SNOW on Christmas. I know that more than likely won't happen, but maybe a nice Christmas movie tonight would help?? We have plans of walking to my aunt and uncles for dinner tonight (love how close they live!!!) and I'm really hoping they are up for popping a fun Christmas movie in!

In other news, our work let go of the business attire rule for the day and let us wear our best Christmas sweaters. I'm pumped! This little holiday break can't come quickly enough!

I'm feeling random today, but am curious to know what YOUR families traditions are on/around Christmas time. Please share them below!!! I just think it's so cool to me how no two families do Christmas the same.

FRI-YAY!

Oh Friday, we finally made it. I'll be so thankful when that clock hits 4:30 and can head home! I've got my "annual review" at work today, and I'm so not a fan of these things. I'm just one of those people that always prepares for the worst, for no real reason, even when I've done a great job. So I'll be thankful when that's over!

Leaving work this evening also means its the beginning of our STAY-CATION. I have lots of fun planned for next week, and it will be GLORIOUS to just spend an entire week with Caleb, doing whatever our hearts desire. Although we aren't flying to some fancy beach, we're getting pretty lucky in the weather-department. Normally Ohio has freezing temps by November, but not this year We're hitting mid 60's. My body is so confused, but I don't hate it.

...okay so maybe I DO wish we were on a sandy beach ;) but we will just pretend!

Tomorrow is also one of my favorite nights of the holiday season. My companies Christmas party! They serve what I consider to be the best meal of our year (steak, lobster, bacon wrapped scallops, shrimp, family style sides, etc.!), so you could say I'm excited.

woah - throwback to dark hair.

All in all, Caleb and I had a pretty great week! I made the most simple yummy crock pot meal and had so much leftover. If you're looking for something easy and quick, click this! Creamy Ranch Chicken -- the only complaint was I couldn't really taste the ranch, so I believe next time I'll be adding more mix.

We went on quite a few long walks after dinner, marveled at all the gorgeous lights in our neighborhood, and just enjoyed our time together this week. Nothing fancy, but it was just perfect.

I hope you all have a fun weekend ahead of you! Enjoy it :)

It's the most wonderful time!

Last night, Caleb made me get off the couch, grabbed my hand, and took me on a long walk around our subdivision. It meant so much to me. We talked forever, conversations that probably wouldn't have happened if we sat in front of the TV all night. He took me to a nearby street that had some of the coolest Christmas lights (accompanied by Christmas music, of course) and we just stared. The owner was even outside and we thanked him for the free entertainment.

No other time of year is it really acceptable to stare at someone's home, and its considered normal, or even encouraged. Something about this time of year makes people seem happier, more approachable, and more giving. I can't help it - I love this time of year!!! Of course, surprising friends with gifts is always a blast, but I love the traditions that come along with this time of year.

Traditions like...
...making brownies for breakfast with Caleb on Christmas morning and trying to finish as many as we can before celebrating with my family for brunch.

...writing notes every Thanksgiving with my family (we write down what we're thankful for privately, and we go around the table on Christmas and pick one out of the tin, and read it out loud).

...Caleb and I each giving each other one small gift the night before Christmas because we just can't help ourselves! ;)

...going to the coolest free Christmas play in Cincinnati every year with our best friends.

...and like getting new ornaments every year to hang on our tree. This is an old one of my mom's - part of the Wizard of Oz set we've got on our tree! Love!!

Christmas is honestly just one of my favorite times of year. Caleb and I always get SO excited to decorate the house, play as much Christmas music as possible the entire month of December and light our tree the second we walk in the door! I love the traditions we have just as a family of 2, and can't wait to make new ones as the years pass by!

Linking up with Pinky today for anything-goes- Christmas style ;)

Everyone enjoy your Tuesday!

Favorite Things Giveaway!

There's just something about the month of December that puts me in a cozy, festive, awesome mood. I'm positive its because this month is filled with awesome people, tasty desserts and beautiful decorations. I'm also a huge fan of gift giving - and guess what friends? It's your lucky day! ;)

I've teamed up with Kristin, Erin and Pinky to bring you a giveaway this Christmas season full of our favorite things!! Individually, we all picked out some of our favorite items that we think you would also be excited about, in hopes to make YOUR December a little more merry! ;)

I included the new Adele CD (she's one of my faves, and I can only imagine this entire album is unbelievable, aaaaand I wanted to keep this for myself), gold nail polish (because getting my nails done is underrated), festive socks (because duh) and adorable hair ties (I love these kind because they don't typically leave a huge kink in your hair when you take it down)!

This giveaway is valued at over $75 and has some seriously awesome items! So go ahead and enter because I know I'D be thrilled if this all showed up at my door right before Christmas!! :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Hot chocolate, apple pie and friends.

Today is my Friday, and I couldn't be happier for that. It feels good to not have to work (a wedding) over a Holiday weekend, and we're pumped to spend lots of time with each other, our family, and our friends!

Today, and every day, I'm thankful for this guy who's always by my side.

I promise he's thrilled...

I'm thankful for Shutterfly for sending the best coupons in the world.

I'm thankful for my health care. After some of our family being in the hospital lately, I'm really not taking that (or my health) for granted.

I'm thankful for my friends, both near and far. They always send the best texts/emails right when I need them, and I know they are all just a call away. My friends give the best hugs, and are the best supporters I could ask for. HASHTAG BLESSED.

I'm thankful for the ability to pick up a sweet tea whenever the heck I want.

I'm thankful for $3 Christmas banners that will make my home more cozy this Winter - thanks to Target ;)

I'm thankful for worship. It's my favorite way to connect with the Lord. It shifts our attention from our problems, to the problem solver; to the Creator of the universe!

I'm really thankful for my camera(s). Lately I'm feeling extra sentimental about my ability to capture the coolest moments in others lives. I had a family shoot on Sunday and this photo just stuck out. To be able to capture that adorable smile, those bouncy curls? I just love it.

I'm thankful for apple pie with extra sugar. I'm thankful for the family members who will cook this Thanksgiving, so I don't have to ;) but more important? I'm thankful I have a table to eat from, with family I love, in the warmth of a home. Those are such small things to some of us, that so many others don't have in this world.

I'm thankful for puppy kisses, hot chocolate, random surprises and movie nights.
I'm thankful for comfy pajamas, hot water, yummy candles and thick sweaters.

Don't forget to hug your loved ones extra tight this Thanksgiving. I'm thankful for each and every one of you who keep coming back to this little space of mine! It truly means so much!