Life By Nadine Lynn - Page 97 of 336

Books

Thanks to the holidays, I had a pretty good reading month! Linking up with Steph and Jana for another month of Show Us Your Books.

Where We Belong by Emily Giffin

Marian Caldwell is living her dream in NYC until Kirby Rose shows up with a reminder of the secrets from her past. As the two women embark on a journey to find the one thing missing in their lives, each will come to recognize that where we belong is often where we least expect to find ourselves.

I really enjoyed this book! From the very beginning I was hooked and wanted to find out what was going to happen. I went back and forth as to whether I really liked Marian or not, I felt at times that her character was a little shallow and disconnected. It didn’t take away from the story at all. Kirby and Conrad were my favorite characters.

Bottom Line: Just read it!

The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo by Amy Schumer

In The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo, Amy mines her past for stories about her teenage years, her family, relationships, and sex and shares the experiences that have shaped who she is – a woman with the courage to bare her soul to stand up for what she believes in, all while making us laugh.

Some of Amy’s stand up cracks me up and I have caught a few episodes of her show, so I thought I would check this out. I consumed this via audiobook since Amy herself reads it.

Bottom Line: If you are a fan of Amy’s, you will probably enjoy this.

Heart of the Matter by Emily Giffin

In alternating, pitch-perfect points of view, Emily Giffin creates a moving, luminous story of good people caught in untenable circumstances. Each being tested in ways they never thought possible. Each questioning everything they once believed. And each ultimately discovering what truly matters most.

Even though I predicted what was going to happen from the very beginning, I really enjoyed this story. You get to know both Tess and Valerie really well. I felt like I could relate to both characters circumstances, and I like to think I know what I would if I were on each side.

Bottom Line: This was a good read. It sort of plays to both sides of the story with the alternating points of view and allows you to “chose a side.”

Strike a Match by Lindzee Armstrong

When Kate’s abusive husband dies in a house fire, she only feels relief. Eighteen months later, she’s ready to move on and seeks the help of a matchmaking company. Only, they match her with someone that knows too much about her past.

This was a super quick and cute read. I really enjoyed it. I read this in one evening, so that should tell you it definitely held my attention. If you are wanting a romance book without any of the dirty talk, then this would be a good one for you.

Bottom Line: Cute, quick read.

Sociable by Rebecca Harrington

I don’t know if it is because I read a few other books in the last few months about social media and the curated life vs real life or whatever…and I kept comparing those two books to Sociable, but I think I decided that Sociable was just not for me. I found the characters to be unlikable, they were superficial and ridiculous. I think it had a relevant and interesting concept, but it wasn’t executed well. It was a quick, easy read and there were a few humorous moments I enjoyed…but there was nothing really memorable about the book and I didn’t really care for the writing style.

Bottom Line: I cant really recommend this book. I gave it two stars, but very meh for me. I would recommend reading Hello, Sunshine or My Not So Perfect Life over this.

**I received a copy of Sociable from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are of my own.**

Mooseletoe by Tiffinie Helmer

A matchmaking moose is determined to bring together an unlikely pair. Holly Noelle Snow loves Christmas so much she could be one of Santa’s elves, and Reese Sutton might as well be Scrooge.

This was such a cute Christmas read! I read this in a span of about two days and it gave me all the warm and fuzzy feels.

Bottom Line: It is a little cheesy and predictable, but the perfect Christmas romance!

This Christmas by Jeannie Moon

Single mother Sabrina Gervais has built a happy life with her daughter Charlotte. Jake Killen’s career in professional hockey has brought him many rewards on and off the ice, but returning to New York brings back a flood of memories. When he sees Sabrina again, he discovers that he didn’t just away from her ten years ago, but also from their unborn child.

I do love a good second chance romance. This was another quick read that I really enjoyed. Again, nothing mind blowing…but one of those feel good Christmas romance stories. I do like that it makes you think about what you would have done in Sabrina or Jake’s situation.

Bottom Line: Cute Christmas romance if you are in to those sorts of things.

The Trouble with Valentine’s Day by Rachel Gibson

Dumped by her boyfriend, stressed out by her job, Kate Hamilton needs to regroup and get back some self-esteem. Rob’s been more than burned by love and when Kate tries to seduce him in a bar, he completely rejects her. Little do they know they will meet again in a small town!

This was a slow burn romance that really grew on me. You really get to know the main characters and see how first impressions might not always tell the whole story. I felt like the ending was a little anticlimactic, and sometimes I got a little frustrated with the misunderstands and miscommunication between Kate and Rob. I suppose that is what makes it a fun story though!

Bottom Line: Overall, a cute read and perfect since Valentine’s Day is coming up!

Currently Reading

Mean Streak by Sandra Brown

January 9, 2018 by Nadine

Weekend Shenanigans and TBB Asks

This weekend we didn’t really do a whole lot. Zoe came home with a fever Thursday night. It only took the kids in her new class three days to take her down with their grossness. I worked from home and took her to the doctor Friday. The only time her and I left the house this weekend was yesterday to go grocery shopping and meet up with her grandparents for lunch.

I have been staying strong with Whole30. The hardest thing for me is no creamer in the coffee in the mornings. I really enjoy my coffee time and it has sucked this past week and not been special at all. I just chug it down for the caffeine. I know I will at least add the creamer back on February 1st because life is too short to not enjoy your coffee!

Truth is, I cheated midweek. You aren’t supposed to weigh yourself during the 30 days, but I just wanted to see that I made some progress to give myself some motivation to keep going strong. I hopped on that scale and realized I was down 4 pounds in just a few days. Ummm ok!!! I will keep going! No problem!

I love linking up with Andrea and the ladies from TBB Asks each month to answer some fun questions. These posts are some of my favorite to read as well, I feel like I always learn something new about you!

1. Resolutions or No Resolutions?

I mentioned before, but I don’t really do resolutions. I usually have something in mind that I want to work on for the year, but don’t set specific goals. It is almost always my health. Constant work in progress over here.

2. Love snow or No Snow?

Love love love love love snow!!! Unfortunately, here in Alabama we don’t get to see it often. We can go years without it. We were blessed with one beautiful snow day already this year though! I should edit to say, I love it just as long as there aren’t ice issues. That shit is scary and I think we all remember Snowpocalypse in the south from a few years ago.

3. Name a New Place you want to go this year?

I am not sure there is going to be any major traveling this year with a one year old. Chris and I do have a bucket list of a few places that we want to go to though and I hope to make it a reality over the next several years.

We are all about taking advantage of what is within driving distance to us here in Birmingham though. Atlanta and Chattanooga are just two hours away. Nashville is about three hours. The beach is four hours, Gatlinburg is five hours. And we do like to go to Huntsville, which is just an hour. So hope to add a few day/weekend trips!

4. Would you rather have a new Hair cut or Hair color?

Color. I like to keep my hair long (or as long as the fine, stringy mess will let me), but get my hair colored at least twice a year.

5. Name one special thing you want to do for yourself this year?

My health took a backseat last year while I tried to find my way as a new mom. I guess I can say I sort of let myself go. I swore before I had a baby that I wouldn’t be that person who completely loses who she is just because she is a mom. I am working on getting back Nadine this year, and still being an awesome mom in the process.

6. Least Favorite thing about January?

I get the blues that the holidays are over. And that the month is filled with full work weeks. LOL

7. Most Favorite thing about January?

The clean slate feeling that the first of the year brings, and getting my house back in order after the holidays.

8. When do you take down your Holiday decorations?

I try to have them down by January 1st. If not then, by the next weekend for sure.

9. Do you diet in January?

The last three years I have done Whole30 in January. Even before that, I can remember making a conscience effort to eat better and detox after all the holiday splurges and treats.

10. What area of your home do you want to organize the most?

The entire thing! Honestly, we hope to put our house on the market sometime this year and move. So I am working on staging and making the house look awesome for potential buyers. But also keeping in mind my goals for a new home with whatever I buy to organize and stage, because I want to invest in things we love.

11. Favorite Winter Comfort Food?

I love savory foods in the winter time. I make a pot a soup just about weekly, usually for lunches but also dinner often too. So I guess soup?

12. Favorite Guilty Pleasure

Definitely a good Netflix binge!! I also find myself reading a lot of cheesy Christmas Romances in the winter. Though, I have to be honest and tell you that I never feel guilty about anything that brings me pleasure or joy. You shouldn’t either!

How would you have answered some of these questions??

I hope all my friends in the ATL stay safe today! I know you are supposed to be getting some possible road compromising winter weather. It is pouring here, but 36 degrees and *hopefully* no ice for us! We had been below freezing for so long, I had to remind myself a few times I was in Alabama and not Pennsylvania! I hope you all stay warm and have a fabulous week! I am double dipping and linking up with Biana too for Weekending!

January 8, 2018 by Nadine

favorites, Whole 30

Favorite Whole 30 Recipes

Listen, you don’t have to be doing Whole30 to enjoy these recipes!!! These are all tried and true recipes that I have made during my last two rounds of Whole30 and have been in regular meal planning rotation ever since. These are husband approved as well. Just sayin’.

Sweet Potato Nachos – No one said you had to give up your favorite foods while doing Whole30. These are freaking amazing! AMAZING!!!

Whole 30 Buffalo Ranch Chicken Meatballs – Chris loved these for lunches, and if you pair with a veggie, make a great dinner option too.

Spinach Zucchini Ravioli – These will make you think you are eating a real pasta dish without any of the guilt.

Slow Cooker Jalapeno Popper Chili – One of my top two favorite chili recipes!!! The other one is to follow.

Chocolate Chili – The BEST chili ever. EVER.

Ketchup – Definitely a must! Chris requests this over regular ketchup when we make turkey burgers.

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken – Love to stuff sweet potatoes with this chicken! Or you could make sweet potato nachos with this meat and a little green onion!

Sloppy Joe’s – LOVE this recipe! I stuff baked potatoes with this too!

Cashew Chicken – Delicious!!! Need I say more?

Italian Meatloaf Muffins – These are so good and cook up pretty fast. We have them reheated and they are still delicious the next day.

Sweet Potato Shepard’s Pie – Never had shepard’s pie until I made this deliciousness.

Baked Carrot Fries – I made these last year with some Asian meatballs and they were to die for!!! Chris had no clue they were carrots until I told him.

Mexican Chicken Soup – So good!!!

See, there are a ton of delicious foods that you an make while you are on Whole30!! But, like I said, these recipes are worthy of being made anytime. Even if you aren’t “dieting.” I plan to do another recipe post at the end of the month with all the new ones I try this round. A lot of you seem interested and asked me to share some recipes, so I hope you liked this! What is your favorite go to healthy meal? Spam me with your recipes!

Linking up with Amanda.

January 5, 2018 by Nadine

about me, currently

Currently

First of all, shout out to Laura!!! Today is her birthday! My absolute most favorite thing about blogging has been all the friendships I have made, both IRL and online. I cannot be more thankful to blogging for bringing Laura in my life! She has been the bestest friend that I could ever ask for. And Laura, we need to take more pictures together!!! I went through my entire phone and these are the only ones I could find. Though there are a ton of our hands holding drinks together! Hahaha. 🙂 Love you! You are the best!

Linking up with Kristen and Gretch for a currently post!

Reading: Mean Streak by Sandra Brown

Watching: Most all of our shows are on break right now. We did watch Lucifer last night. I just love that show! We watched both the new Dave Chapelle on Netflix on New Years Eve. We also started watching Blue Bloods over the last month. We are still in the first season, but I am really enjoying it.

Buying: Nordstrom had their half yearly sale this past week and I have been lusting after these booties since they debuted in the fall sale. They were 50% off and I decided to pull the trigger. I ordered the Stone color because I figured they would match pretty much everything I own. I have some black wedge booties, but no neutral/tan color (for winter) to match things I don’t want to wear black with so I am excited to get those!!

Working: Now that all the holiday stuff has been put away, I have the urge to organize and clean all the things!!! Our pantry and refrigerator are driving me insane, so that is the first space I want to tackle. I went to HomeGoods yesterday to look around and found some plastic bins for the refrigerator like these.

I got a cute wire basket for the potatoes and onions, thanks to this inspiration….

via

And I found some wonderful natural woven baskets (similar) with wooden handles to recreate the look below.

I will grab some chalkboard stickers from Michael’s this weekend to label the baskets. I like that idea so that I can change up the contents if the need arises.

There are several house projects we want to tackle soon. The list keeps on growing.

Cooking: I have been scouring Pinterest and paleo blogs for new Whole30 recipes. I found some amazing recipes the last two years during Whole30 that I make on a regular basis. Nothing gets me more pumped than trying something new, so I have been pinning all the things. I will definitely share anything amazing with you all. During the football games on Monday, I made up a batch of this kielbasa and it was delicious!!!! And so easy, a one pan and done under 15 minutes. I am sure I will be making it again soon.

Excited: Is it weird that I am excited to get back into a routine? I feel like the holidays is such a chaotic time without any schedule or routine. I am already getting back on track with my eating. I am really trying to get myself pumped up for a regular workout routine again. I was so good for several years, working out five days a week. No excuses. I want that drive back and I think I am almost there. Honestly, I am just so damn tired all the time. I wake up so early and have to be on all day. I am hoping to find something new that I love that will get me back in to the habit, and then I can incorporate everything again. What workouts are you loving right now?

Scheduling: A lunch date with Laura tomorrow to celebrate her birthday! I also would like to make a trip back to Atlanta sometime soon. It’s crazy that I lived there for 13 years and only live about two hours away, and yet it has been at least two years since I have visited.

Laughing:

Uh yeah

January 4, 2018 by Nadine

weekend shenanigans

Holiday Shenanigans

Oh, hey there 2018! Like…what??? I am still in denial that Christmas is over to be honest. We took our tree down yesterday though, and basically that is the most productive thing I could do for us to get a kick off to the new year. I love Christmas and I hate taking down all of the decorations and going back to normal….until around the 1st when I am like ok….this shit has gots to go!!! I want my house back!

We had a magical Christmas with Zoe. She was so into the Christmas movies, music and decorations. She decided that she did in fact like opening presents and figured out that gift bags are her favorite thing ever. And cards. Give that girl a card and she is happy forever. I think the biggest hit was her car. She is so adorable when she asks for a ride.

She loved getting to decorate cookies for Santa. Though, she was more interested in eating his cookies. Pretty much my face when I consume cookies too!

We started a new tradition of building a gingerbread house together too. I have never done one before, and I have always wanted to. Our roof kept trying to slide down and that was annoying…but we had fun decorating anyways!! I think next year we will start from scratch instead of getting a kit.

We started a new tradition of going to Pappadeaux on Christmas Eve for lunch. Zoe had her first taste of filet and it is safe to say that she loved it. We really enjoyed ourselves there and we had the best service. Other than one other family that came towards the end of our lunch….we pretty much had the room to ourselves.

We spent the rest of Christmas Eve at Chris’s parents house, as we do every year.

It has been cold here in Alabama with “artic air” that has moved through. It was 15 degrees when I woke up yesterday morning. We still got out and enjoyed ourselves a few different times between Christmas and New Year. We even headed up to Chattanooga for an afternoon. Of course, we had to take Zoe to Taco Mac while we were there! It was her first time out of state, and technically she was in three different states that day because we have to drive through a little part of Georgia to get to Chattanooga.

We checked out a new bar in Leeds that is actually kid friendly, so Zoe got to have her first bar experience. I had the most delicious passion fruit and guava beer from Trim Tab while we were there.

And we had a delicious meal at Hickory Tavern where Zoe had her first experience with crayons. Obviously, she is a natural. I was impressed that she didn’t even try to eat them.

I started my third round of Whole 30 yesterday. Of course, I had to go out in style the day before. We ordered Mexican to go from our favorite local place on NYE for lunch and my last meal of the night was nachos. Had to have one last hurrah! Truth be told, we were in bed before the clock struck midnight. I just don’t get into NYE and we do have a one year old. We watched the two new Dave Chapelle show’s that dropped on Netflix though and watched several classic movies that we love. (The Proposal, Blindside, Heartbreak Kid, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, American Wedding.)

Honestly, I am really glad to be getting back on track again and having some structure with my eating. For the most part, I do decent during the week but I had been letting a lot of treats and processed crap back in my life over the last several months. And let’s not even talk about the holiday treats, ok? Day one was a lot easier than I thought it was going to be.

At first I was like…why would I start Whole 30 on playoff day????? And when Georgia went into their SECOND overtime….I was ready to pull out the drinks and M&Ms I had hid from myself the day before. But then the Alabama game calmed my nerves and my two favorite teams are going to the championship next Monday!!! I will be pulling for Alabama…but I honestly can’t be mad if Georgia wins. It has been a long time for them. So next Monday is a win win for me!

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday! You wont be seeing any resolution posts from me. My main goal in 2018 is to work on my health. I was in a really good place before getting pregnant and sort of been lost ever since. I was more focused on being a mom this past year and have let my needs and health on the back burner. I feel like we are a lot more settled in to the parent life now and I can’t really consider myself a new mom anymore and use that as an excuse as to why my work outs aren’t happening or why I am snacking on crap. You know? So Whole 30 for January, and by next Monday I hope to have had a few workouts under my belt too.

January 2, 2018 by Nadine

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