Skip Day - Mama Style

Ok so I have been thinking about this for awhile.  What would it be like to have myself a little skip day? Like a WHOLE day not just a couple of hours, not an afternoon but a whole day.  Sounds kind of delicious doesn't it?

So I started planning this out in my head.  If I am going to do a skip day it can't be a day where I have obligations, that would make me feel guilty and unable to enjoy the day.  It really doesn't work for  me on the weekend because everyone else is home and people need me for stuff.....you know .....stuff.  So I looked at my work calendar and chose a day that I could easily get my obligations covered.  Now should you decide to have your own skip day, you will have to pick a day that works best for you.

Secondly, I knew people would be relying on me for dinner so I loaded up the crock pot the night before so all I had to do was plug it in on my way out the door for SKIP DAY!!!!

This is my friend Jennifer's recipe.  It is 2 pounds of pinto beans, 2 pounds of smoked sausage, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, salt, pepper and cover with water. Put it on low and let it go.

I took a few pictures along the way.....because what  is a skip day without your blog friends

My first stop was Edgars Bakery for breakfast

and as I was on my way to my second stop......the Hot Sign was on so.....this happened

To my credit though, I only bought one.

Then I went to Terrame Spa for a one hour Swedish massage

I grabbed a picture in my soft and comfy robe.  The massage was a gift my mom had given me a few months ago and it was great to get to cash it in.

And then I went retail.  My first stop was Marshalls.  I can't show you everything I bought because I did get a gift or two but I did get this cute vest and plaid top

And this sweater and polka dot top

The most expensive thing I bought was $29.99 so I got some good deals.

I then popped into Pier 1 because I always enjoy them but I forget to go there so today was a good day.  It was pouring rain and they were having some serious ceiling leaks but I am a professional shopper and can deal with obstacles.  If you need an advent calendar for this season, check this one out

I popped into Target for some essentials like laundry supplies, nail polish and shipping supplies but I snagged this soft top in the prettiest dusty red top that I think will look great with denim

I was going to sit down for lunch but I decided to eat in the car and keep it moving.  I grabbed one of my favorite on the road meals

I then went to Ross because they are another store that I forget about. And they are one of those stores that you need time to sift through racks and I happened to have a little time today

Here I grabbed a new welcome mat for the front porch for fall

I also got a couple of flannel shirts for under $12, some candles and really cute formals that we don't need but I couldn't resist the price.  

From there I headed to TJ Maxx where I grabbed a new wreath for the front door

I also got one more top and a fabulous Christmas gift that I can't show you because it is for one of you.....I know....I wish I could show you but I just can't.  But trust me, go to TJ Maxx and do some Christmas shopping.

Then I headed home to enjoy the dinner that had been cooking all day.

I highly recommend a good skip day.  It was very therapeutic.

Oh and don't forget, just a few more days to honor that college student in our Great Things in '18 Challenge.

Have a wonderful weekend.  See you back on Monday.

Fall Favorites from QVC

I hope you enjoyed a walk through some of my favorite Target finds on Monday.  Today, I am sharing with you some things I have ordered and loved from QVC


I have this top in the forest green and I love it.  I have my normal size M and it fits perfectly

Du Jour Tunic

Mine is from last year so the good news it is on clearance.  Still a full range of sizes available XS-XXL and four color options green (pictured), navy, wine and red.  Clearance price is $27.73 with free shipping.

If you are opposed to buying last year's tunic on clearance, they have this year's version in updated color options 

Du Jour Tunic

This is available in black (pictured), navy, olive and plum.  This too is in the full size range and is $41.25 with free shipping.  I am seriously considering getting another one.

I also have these leggings from the Du Jour Brand in black

Du Jour Ponte Knit Legging

Here is what I love about these leggings......THEY HAVE POCKETS!!!! They fit great.  I have a medium which is my regular size.  They come in black, chocolate,  navy, and merlot. The black and chocolate are still regular price of $45.50.  But the merlot and navy are on sale for $37.92.  And all have free shipping.

I recently ordered these pants

Women With Control Slim Pant

I consider these more of knit pant than a legging.  They have a super wide waistband that is very comfortable.  The color options are near endless.....black, chocolate, bayleaf, winter white, camel, graphite, navy, plum, taupe and white.  These also come in a regular length, petite and tall.  So there is something for everyone in these.  They are $34

And then I went out on a limb and purchased one of the lines that I normally don't buy at QVC.  Fortunately, this one worked out really well

Denim & Co Fit and Flare Tunic

I think this line runs large so I sized down and ordered a small in this one.  It was a smart move.  This top comes in black, olive, rose brown (pictured), indigo, red and violet.  $35.25. XXS-3X

So there's a few things I am enjoying from QVC.  Oh and don't forget they are on ebates as well.  So make sure you click through ebates and get a percentage back on your purchase.

See you back here on Friday.

Pay no attention to the "High for today"

Yes, it is still in the 90's.  Yes, you may spontaneously combust if you wear all the fall layers in your head....But nothing is stopping us from getting ready.  Can I just say, I am really liking the things I am seeing in the stores and online.  I have a few fun things for you today in case you want to add to your fall wardrobe options.

First up, Target is seriously hitting the Bullseye this fall.....see what I did there? Ok, I know.  I am best audience.....but take a look

Who couldn't use a faux leather jacket for a little wardrobe edge

Wild Fable Jacket

This one is only $35 and comes in sizes S - XXL.  This would rock with jeans, a cute pencil skirt or even a black print trouser.

If you are like me and everything you own is black and perhaps you want to branch out a bit, there is this cute brown one by A New Day

A New Day Faux Leather Jacket

You know what Brown looks good with - EVERYTHING.  Navy pants, blue jeans, grey trousers and even black pants.  A few accessories will pull this brown together with just about everything. This one is in sizes XS- XXL and is only $39.99

If leather, faux or not, is not your thing you might want to add a cute short trench this year.  They are absolutely everywhere.  And you have to admit they are very practical.  This one is also by A New Day

Trench Coat

You have two options black or khaki here.  Sizes XS- XXL.  It has a super cute lining and a removable hood.  I do not love a hood.  In fact I often will not purchase something if it has a hood.  But on a cute trench I would definitely make an exception because --- rain.......when it is raining I do enjoy a good hood.  At less than $45 I think this is a good buy.

Now let's look at a couple of pants and leggings.  First up, this little faux leather legging is quite nice.  I don't know about you but I would never pay the price for actual leather leggings because it's just not something I will wear every week but I do think a fun thing to have in the wardrobe.  

Wild Fable Legging

This sweet model is wearing them with a cropped shirt.  Well that's sweet but I don't know many people who can carry that off.  I am thinking a longer tunic or sweater.  All the same, your size choices are XS-XXL and a plus size version is available here.  $16- $18 make these an affordable way to wear a fun trend.

I have a lot of skinny leg jeans, a few boot cut jeans, some boyfriend jeans, but my favorite cut in a jean has always been a trouser jean.

A New Day Trouser Jean

It is like you are still wearing real clothes but they are jeans....you know they can be kind of dressy.  And I just think they lengthen the leg and are super flattering.  Sizes 2-18 are only $27.99.  The plus size version found here is super limited in sizes but worth checking out.

Now Target also has some cute little bootie options.  Like this one

Lucia Lace Up Bootie

Sizes 6.5-12 in both medium and wide widths......and only $27.99.  Black or Taupe

This next one is definitely on trend

Wenda Cut Out Bootie

Again lots of size options, medium and wide widths and three color options: Chestnut (pictured), Black or tan.  $32.99

Lastly, I must say the handbag accessory department really drew me in.  So many good options

A New Day Satchel

I loved this bag when I saw it.  A great medium size and the color options....black, gray, red, pink and brown.  Trust me the hardest decision will be which color to choose.  But at under $40 it would not be out of the question to have a couple.  Unless, of course, you want one of these and one of these dome satchels

Dome Satchel

This one comes in this fun black patterned bag and this floral

And a solid mustard and a solid maple are also available.  How fun would this be this season and still under $40.

Target, really good job.  I am loving the new lines, the fun patterns but most of all the reasonable prices that make it easy to own some super trendy pieces.

Go ahead and add something fun to your wardrobe this fall or pick up some of these for Christmas gifts.

I will be back on Wednesday with of my favorite QVC fall finds.  They too are really tempting me.

If you are shopping on line, don't forget to go thru ebates and get a little money back to spend on something else. All you do it go to ebates.com, search for Target, click on the link and shop like normal.  You can sign up using my referral link by clicking here.

Have a wonderful week!!!

One Last Summer Treat

Sunday is the first day of fall.  Who's excited???? Me!!! Me!!! Me!!!! This is my favorite season.  I love the colors, the comfort, the apple goodies, the decor, the need for a sweater and a throw.  But before we jump headlong into the next season here is the perfect treat to say goodbye to summer and say "thanks for coming, we enjoyed you."

This is another recipe my Grandma Gracie shared with me.  I think you will love it.  A little warning - it needs time in the fridge so make it early in the day so you can enjoy it that night.  I used to make this before I went to my 8:00 college class so my roomies and I could enjoy it that evening.

Banana Split Pie

Here is what you will need

3-4 medium bananas
1 Graham cracker pie crust
3 oz. of cream cheese, softened
1 small can crushed pineapple, drained but reserve juice
1 tsp. vanilla flavoring
3 T. milk
1 cup Powdered sugar
12 oz. cool whip
maraschino cherries (optional)
chopped nuts (optional)
chocolate syrup (optional)

Mix milk, cream cheese, vanilla and powdered sugar.  Pour into pie crust.

Drain pineapple and reserve the juice, slice bananas and allow them to soak in pineapple juice to prevent browning.

Sprinkle crushed pineapple over filling.

Evenly spread sliced bananas over pineapple.

  Cover entire pie with whipped topping

Top with cherries, nuts and chocolate syrup

At my house some don't like nuts and others don't like chocolate syrup so we stop with the cherries.  But go for it all if you like it.

Chill this pie in the fridge 8 hours or overnight to allow the filling to set......then enjoy it as you say goodbye to summer and hello to fall.

Have a great weekend!

August Book Review

I had a very successful month of reading.  I liked everything I read.  I loved a couple of them.  Check out what had me turning pages this month




Now That You Mention It by Kristan Higgins. I loved this book.  It is a good, fairly quick read.  Basically, a young lady returns to her hometown after a horrible accident and is faced with all the non-sense she endured growing up there.  I tell my kids all the time "High School never ends".  This story confirms that little bit of wisdom.  It is a really good story and reminder of how somethings in our childhood are what we made them out to be......but truth be told the reality might be completely different.  There is a lot of dry humor in it which, of course, I am drawn to.  The story is complex enough for interest yet the characters are easy to learn and remember so you don't have to concentrate a ton to read it.  I really enjoyed it!!!





A Hundred Summers by Beatriz Williams. OK, first this is a good story.  It is one of those stories that goes back and forth in time.  Because of the story line in the later years, it is clear something happened in the past that made me keep reading because I was floored as to how some of the characters got to where they were.....so I had to keep reading.  So let me just say, it is set in the 1930's.  So the girls are all careful of their reputations.....critical of girls who don't wear nylons....and on the outside very conservative and prudish.....until....they find themselves in the backseat of a car or an apartment alone with a boy or various other situations that took quite a turn from what I expected.  I will also say that Beatriz felt very compelled to explain in DETAIL some of these intimate scenes.  Just flip a page or 2 or 3 (truly there's a lot of detail) and go on with the story.  In essence two girls who grow up spending their childhood together summering in this beach town find themselves in a very different situation when they are adults.  Their friendship and everything they thought they knew about each other will be challenged.



The Sound of Gravel by Rugh Wariner.  Another great memoir.  And let me just sum this one up by saying wowser bedowser!!!  Ignore the cover.....or maybe it is just me but I am not drawn to books with real people on the cover.  For some reason I like to decide what the characters look like in my own head from how the book describes them.  But since this is someone's life story, I guess they get to look like themselves.  I gotta tell you, the more I read - the more I kept flipping back to this cover to look into the faces of these children.  Y'all this true story will sadden you, enrage you, baffle you, disgust you, and inspire you.  Honestly, if these kids survived their life you and I should not be complaining about ours.  Very well written.  Such a good story and quite an eye opener for me regarding the whole polygamy thing.  Before this, my only insight was Sister Wives on TLC......well read this one for a whole new perspective from a child growing up in a polygamist home.  I was hooked until the very last page.



Castle of Water by Dane Huckelbridge. There is a plane crash.  There are two survivors.  They are from two very different countries and cultures but they will need each other to survive.  This book had me holding my breath at times, shaking my head at times and realizing I would not survive very long in a situation like this.  It is a beautiful story that tugs at the heart.  There are a few words that require repentance and maybe a scene or two that do the same, but for the most part it is a pretty tame book.  PG-13 I would say.  The story is good and definitely kept me engaged.  I would recommend.


If you can only squeeze one of this in.....read The Sound of Gravel.....then call me and tell me what you thought of it.

See you back here on Friday.

It is the LAST WEEK of SUMMER!!!

I am totally holding out on going full sweater, scarf and booties.....not because I have a lot of self-control but mainly because I am pretty sure my body would dehydrate in 8.7 seconds in this heat.  But we are walking thru the last official week of summber and I am EX-CIT-ED!!!!

Fall is my favorite!!!

I have been scoping the stores like crazy looking at all the fall stuff.  If you need a wreath, get yourself to Homegoods

There are all kinds and sizes and shapes and price ranges

I think you could find something you like.

And if you need any pumpkins, TJ Maxx has one of the best pumpkin patches this year

They have glass, fabric, wooden......

and all kinds of color options.....which I like alot

I also have a ton of stuff pinned on my fall Pinterest Board if you need a little inspiration.

Enjoy the last week of summer, and then lets Fall!

Don't forget to complete our Great Things in '18 challenge.....these college kids need us.

See you back on Wednesday.

Now and Then Fashions

I am soooo ready for sweaters and booties, so I have a couple of things to show you BUT this is also a super good time to snag a few pieces for next summer....so I have a few things to show you in that category too.


First here are a few things to pick up for next season

This little ruffle tee is available in two colors

Ruffle Sleeve Top

Only one color in this shirtdress .....but that is all we need.  Wouldn't we enjoy having this to slip on to run Saturday errands or wear to work

V-neck Shirt Dress

And this little slide is still available in four colors.  It is quite possible to need them all.....no judgment

Sam Edelman Slide

And then for later..... this Free People hoodie would be great to cover our cold month pounds

Trapeze Hoodie

And check your booties and see if one of your colors needs a little refresh.  If so, this is a good option and it is on sale.

Sofft Bootie

Lastly, I cannot wait for it to be cool enough to wear this comfy fleece tunic

Fleece Tunic

Wishing you all a great weekend and sending prayers and best wishes for those in the path of the hurricane.

See you on Monday!

Great Things in '18 - September Edition

Only four more months of our Great Things in '18 Challenge.  It is never too late to join in if you are just getting started.  If you missed a few months along the way, don't worry about it.  Just finish strong.

Here's a reminder of our focus areas for the year



So remember, all we are doing is being intentional this year.  Getting some things done......showing some love.  This month we are focusing on a college student.  It is a great time to give some encouragement to a college student.  They just got back in school.  They are getting into the swing of things.  They have their first grades of the semester.....they could probably use a little encouragement.

So you choose a student you know, send them a gift card, a homemade care package, some good old cash, cookies, or whatever you think they will enjoy.  You pick how you want to recognize the college student and then just do it!

Here is our inspiration verse for this month

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15


So go be intentional and some college student is going to thank you!!!

I will meet you back here on Friday!

So good....I think I will stay

I love HGTV, DIY and other channels that are making a home more livable and beautiful.  I am always particularly amazed at the shows where a family wants to sell and move, BUT FIRST they must fix up the current house to get it on the market.  I always think well if the house had been like the designer left it, the family probably would never have wanted to sell........which always makes me think - what can I do differently in my current home to make it more livable and beautiful.  So I have a couple of projects going, but here is just a quick reorganization one to share with you today......and I am opening up cabinets for you.  Yep, that is just how close we have all gotten here.  I am swinging open cabinet doors.......I am sure you are not going to harshly judge me....right???....you aren't are you????....ok, well let's just go for it.

My kitchen
Now, yes, I have some real changes I want to make in here.  Changes that cost lots of $$$'s, but while I am saving for that I am going to do a little shuffling about, reorganizing and we will see how this works out.

Remember the new cabinet I purchased a few weeks ago

Well turns out it is the perfect place to store all of our cloth napkins.  So I moved those from this cabinet to the new cabinet

and now I have all my napkins within easy reach

Which left me with all kinds of space in this upper cabinet.  So I moved some random small appliances which I had previously housed in my pantry to this cabinet

Which allowed me tons more room in the pantry and more sensible organization there

Now that I have made these minor little changes I am wondering what took me so long to do this.  Take a peek in one cabinet that drives you crazy, make a few minor adjustments and you may find yourself with an end result that makes life a little easier.

It is good to take a look around and see how you can make what you already have work better for you.

Thanks for joining me for the kitchen cabinet shuffle.  Talk to you on Wednesday!