In addition to out of town swim meets, we fit in some Brookfield Zoo lights, holiday fun, a birthday celebration, and more! Here is our life lately December 2024 and what we have been up to.
Books I’ve Read
- All This and More by Peng Shepherd– A thought-provoking novel that explores identity, memory, and the power of storytelling as a woman uncovers hidden truths about her past through a mysterious reality-bending technology. I loved another book by this author, but just wasn’t a fan of this one. Very well-written though. 3/5
- Underland by Chanda Hahn– A young woman must navigate a dangerous, twisted world to uncover secrets, face her fears, and fight for survival. It reads like YA fantasy, but is still entertaining. 4/5
- The Anti-Heroes by Jen Lancaster– Unlikely allies team up to take down workplace villains while learning surprising lessons about friendship and redemption. So cute and funny. If you haven’t read this author, you should! 4.5/5
- House Moms by Jen Lancaster– Two very different women become house mothers at a college fraternity, navigating unexpected challenges, personal growth, and hilarious moments along the way. I love this author, but it felt like this book ended before the story did. I thought there would have been a bit more excitement at the end? 3.5/5
Recipes I’ve Made
- Potato and Sausage Chowder– We skipped the rice in this and added about 2 cups of hash browns instead. I’m so glad we did. The leftovers were gone in no time! This soup was delicious.
- Garlic Parmesan Brussels Sprouts- I got to make these in my new air fryer. We have a larger one in our garage, but this is a small one perfect for reheating or side dishes like this. They were really good with crunchy outsides and soft centers. We liked the sauce over top.
- Filet mignon– We might have to make this more often than once a year! The girls each ate their entire filets. I could say that I was shocked, but they tasted so good, I’m not.
- Easy Asparagus Chicken Soup – I make asparagus casserole instead of green bean casserole due to some family allergies. I remade it into soup and the family liked it. It was a nice way to switch it up.
- Candied Cranberries– These viral cranberries are so easy and so good! They add pretty color to your cookie plate, too.
Currently
- Loving- I always love that Matt saves some vacation days for the end of the year. He is home all break! He’s been doing so much around the house and with driving kids to/from swimming.
- Doing to stay warm- It’s honestly not that cold out (yet?). We have been enjoying some fires in our fireplaces though.
- Resolving- I am resolving to say, “no” more often. It’s important to keep some time for yourself.
- Organizing- I just went through my closet and did some major cleaning out. I needed to get some hangers free!
- Wearing- Unfortunately I developed plantar fasciitis so I’ve been wearing a lot of supportive socks, shoes, and slippers. It’s slowly going away, but I miss running!
- Family Update
- Me– I can’t believe my school year is halfway complete! It’s flown by. I really love my new position and the people I work with. I did finish a 5K in early December as 2nd female, but now I need to take some time off and heal from plantar fasciitis.
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- Matt- Matt has enjoyed being at home for most of December. He got a Ninja Creamy for Christmas and has been having so much fun researching and trying out new recipes. Yummy!
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- Claire- Claire swam her first 1000! She did so well and was really consistent! She is hoping to do the 500 a couple more times this season as well. She has really developed a love for distance races. Claire had a wonderful 12th (!) birthday and is enjoying her 3D printer she got as a gift.
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- Avie– Avie did so well at her last meet, too! She took time off in her free, back, and fly. Avie enjoyed singing with the church choir at a nearby nursing home and during the Christmas Eve service.
December Goals Recap
- Put together a tentative plan for Girl Scout badges/meetings for both troops- I did not get to this. I hope to do it later this week.
- Read a paper book- I read 2 books on my Kindle and I’m on my 3rd so we will count this as a win.
January Goals
- Put together a tentative plan for Girl Scout badges/meetings for both troops
- Reorganize craft supplies
- List clothing on Poshmark- After cleaning out my closet I have some things to list on Poshmark.
Favorite Posts
P.S. Are you following me on LTK? I post a lot of my daily looks that don’t make it onto the blog. I have been woefully inept at promoting this, but there are many workwear looks for inspiration on there! I hope you enjoyed my Life Lately November update 2024!
LINKING UP WITH WHAT’S UP WEDNESDAY, OVERFLOWING WITH THANKFULNESS
