My Week In Review (otherwise known as WIR) posts are just that: a review of my past week. I post an update here every Tuesday sharing some tidbits of my previous week as well as an accompanying photo recap with selections from my Instagram. Here’s the buzz from my week:
Brr! Remember last week when I waxed on about the shifting of the seasons and how fall was fading slowly into winter? Well, that ship has sailed and the winter weather has come full on with sub-freezing temperatures, icy winds, and even a little snow. We had a beautiful autumn while it lasted and now we’re busy getting ready for winter by turning on the furnaces, putting out the winter quilt, stocking the freezer with homemade soups, and getting our warm coats out of the back of the closet. As much as I don’t like being cold, I do enjoy the cooler weather (so long as I’m bundled up, of course). Chilly evenings are a perfect excuse to cozy up under a cuddly blanket with Don and share some hot chocolate. I love hot chocolate this time of year! And you know what comes after chilly evenings…nippy mornings! I’ve never been much of a bed dweller after I wake up in the morning, preferring to jump up and get the day started. My dog Winnie, however, has different plans and wants me to stay in bed and cuddle her, especially on cold mornings. How could anyone resist that sweetheart? An extra five minute of belly rubs for my girl is the best way to start the day in my opinion.
I know I must not be the only one who looks forward to certain cold weather comfort foods when the temperature drops. My top picks right now include soups and teas. The occasional grilled cheese sandwich is such a nice treat, as well. I know that once the holiday season officially hits there will be lots of goodies around, and I do my best to enjoy them without overindulging. Sometimes that works and sometimes it doesn’t. Every year I grow more aware of the affect too much sugar and fat has on both my physical and psychological well being. I strive to keep moderation in mind for the most part, but I catch myself slipping into old habits every now and then. Watching EssieButton‘s latest video on YouTube about her target=”_blank”>health and fitness journey reminded me of my own journey and how far I’ve come from a less healthy point in my life when my self esteem really suffered to where I am now with considerably more confidence. I am continually learning and growing in this, and I know this journey is a lifelong one.
Speaking of journeys, I ventured out to The Container Store‘s newest location late last week at Roosevelt Collection in Chicago’s South Loop for their blogger preview. What an amazing space! I love that The Container Store has expanded its presence in Chicago with two new locations this year. So many of you mention to me how much you wish a Container Store would come to your area. They just might someday! Their business is growing by leaps and bounds and it’s exciting to see organizational products in such high demand.
The rest of our weekend was pretty low-key. We drove up to Milwaukee on Saturday night to go to a housewarming party for our dear friends from high school. Even though it’s a little sad they no longer live in Chicago, Milwaukee is not so far away. They threw a really nice party with a sea of snacks that were so tasty. You know how much we like snacks in our circle! I spent the bulk of yesterday catching up on comments and correspondence and putting the final touches on my holiday gift guide (which will be up soon!). It’s hard to believe how soon it is until the holidays will be upon us. I’m excited not only for this season, but also what comes after it. I will be attending my first ever blogger conference, AltSummit, in late January. It’s a big step for me out of my comfort zone but I am truly looking forward to it and can’t wait to share my experience with you.
If you’d like to see more from my weekend, check out my vlog:
As I mentioned in this video, I hope to film a check-in style video later this week to catch up with you guys and keep you in the loop. There are some changes afoot, but all good things. This online journey of mine keeps evolving and I with it. I’m excited to be sharing more with you as we embark on the holiday season and new year. Take care and keep warm!
* Post contains affiliate links. This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are genuinely my own. *