22 Jan What I’m Reading, Doing, Watching, Wearing, Eating

Hello friends!

Well since we are still at home, and some on lockdown, we certainly have to find ways to entertain ourselves and keep our wits about us.

I have some recommendations for you today on books I am reading, recipes I am making,  and what I have been wearing etc.

What I’m Reading

I just started the book by Kristin Hannah,  The Great Alone, as I mentioned on my IG Stories. My mom read the book and highly recommended this historical fiction book. Read more about it here. 

What I Am Doing

I have been keeping busy at home with the blog, as well as working on some personal development and taking up new hobbies. I wrote about some of these ideas in the post- Keeping Mentally and Physically Active During Covid.  I have ordered this book from Amazon in order to learn the basics of drawing dogs. You all know I am a huge dog lover and am so impressed with dog portraits from artist I see. I am not looking to be a “pro” but am enjoying learning new skills and drawing with charcoal pencils. I used to love sketching and writing as a kid, so why not?

On days that we have some warmer weather, I will walk outside with the hubby and the pups, on the Greenways we have near us. It is wonderful getting some fresh air and getting out of the house. I do have a home gym however, and will use the treadmill to walk, do the incline and also use my weights, medicine ball and therabands to build muscle. I am a morning workout person, so i put on my ear buds and listen to some rock/hair bands for motivation. I have been loving listening to one of my favorite bands albums- Def Leppard Photograph. 

I’m cooking a bit more with my mom and we both decided making Ukrainian homemade perogies was a bit too much of an undertaking!
The recipe I made as of late was stuffed portobello mushrooms with parmesean cheese, artichokes, onions, garlic. It was quite tasty with a rice pilaf.  I also made my favorite soup-Butternut Squash, which is so easy and delicious! Are you a fan of hearty soups in the Winter? You gotta have good bread! Mmm.

I did watch the Inauguration this Wednesday and was so thankful it went off without a hitch. Did you see Celebrate America with Tom Hanks ? Bruce Springsteen was always a favorite of mine and I really liked the song he performed-The Land of Hope and Dreams

What I’m Wearing

Keeping it casual here at the casa. I miss dressing up, and do so for the blog and some days when we make a trip to Fresh Market to pick up groceries. Just to make me feel better! So, many days it is loungewear, like this leopard pair, or this Lou & Grey outfit, but other days it is denim. Here is an basics outfit with cashmere, a moto jacket, jeans and wedge sneakers I put together recently. Here we are at our favorite nearby Greenway. In addition, I am also wearing workout wear for our walks.

I just love these Dolce Vita wedge sneakers in this pewter grey color. These are sold out, but here is a similar pair. 

What I’m Watching

Well, I am in Discovery ID addict, and hardly watched a crime show I didn’t like! I am a big fan of Detective Joe Kenda.

I will also watch Amazon or Netflix to get lost in a great series or movie. I love foreign mysteries or shows, and recommend, The Five by author Harlen Coben. I also loved the Spanish thriller, The Mess You Leave Behind. 

Now many people have been enjoying Bridgerton, and I am no exception. This story captures you from the start and the relationship of the 2 families is interesting and intertwined. Plus, we must not forget Rege-Jean as Simon, quite the handsome fellow! It is a real treat!

What I’m Listening To

I am old school when it comes to music . I do love many styles , and as a music major, spent much time listening to Jazz artists in college.

I am a big fan of Louis Prima and his improv style. I taught Banana Split for My Baby to my 5th graders.

I also love to listen to Mile’s Davis, classic album- KIND OF BLUE. 

I listen to rock like AC/DC, Bon Jovi and Def Leppard when I am working out.

Perhaps this gave you some new ideas,

Have a great weekend,

Stay Safe,

Jess xo