Five Loves on Friday

Happy Friday, friends!  I've got some fun things to share plus a couple mini hauls for you too!  So, let's get right to it!  Five Loves time!

One // Princess Completed Driver's Ed!

She's an artist, so I thought it fitting to turn her photo into art care of Prisma.

This girl rocked all 40+ hours of driving in various conditions and settings, and the 30 hours of course work, quizzes, and passed the final test with flying colors!  Before she first sat behind that steering wheel I thought it would be terrifying to ride with one of my children while they learned to drive.  I'm thrilled to say now, that I am beyond impressed with her incredible skill, confidence, and ability!  She's driven countless times on the interstate, merging into high traffic.  She's learned to drive in Midwestern winter weather.  Roads/drives known for stressing out people my age she has no difficult maneuvering.  I could not be more proud of her!  Her sixteenth birthday isn't until later this year, so she doesn't have her license quite yet.  She's completely ready for that day and now has her Driver's Ed certificate of completion in hand!

Two // I Made My Own Popsugar Must Have Box!

I love receiving Popsugar Must Have boxes.  You never know what will be inside which adds to the excitement.  However, sometimes it can lead to disappoint.  I paid $40 for this?!  So, when Popsugar offered a deal where you could purchase items that they've had in previous boxes individually and "create your own Popsugar box", I couldn't resist!  The prices were a bit crazy to me, but they ran a deal where if you bought $100 worth of items you would score 75% off and free shipping.  This essentially made it $25 for $100 worth of merch.  How could I pass that up?  I ended up with about $110 worth of items making my cart.  Once the discount was applied I paid less than what a regularly priced Popsugar Must Have box costs.  Bargain!  Most Popsugar boxes have one really high priced item in there.  I went with smaller things, but love all my purchases so I think it was worth the price tag!  

*At this point all items in the Popsugar shop are showing as "sold out".  If they were still running the promotion I'd absolutely link the offer here for you to check out too. ;)

Wanna see what I got?  

Fantastic!  You know I love sharing a haul with y'all!

Christian Lacroix Paris Paseo Sticky Note Folio

The folio itself, with embossing and gold detailing, is super stylish!  Sometimes it's just fun to have pretty things, isn't it? The sticky notes inside will definitely be put to use too. ;)

Flint Lint Roller

This is actually an item that I have received in a Popsugar box recently, but it can't hurt to have a back up/one for my bag!  It's oh so handy!  You twist the bottom to use the lint rolling paper.  When not in use it stays in it's lovely packing.  I cannot tell you how much use I have already gotten out of mine.  If you're in need of a lint roller, I highly recommend this one!  I've also seen them at Walmart in a variety of colors.  Not that that matters, but like I said, it's fun when useful things come in pretty packaging!

House of Pom Emoji Cocktail Napkins

I just thought these cloth cocktail napkins were too cute!  I look forward to using them out on our deck this summer!

Knock Knock "Are You Ready?" Compact

"Are you ready ... for your close-up?"

I've been in need of a compact for my purse and this one was too cute to resist!  The top mirror is magnified and the bottom is a typical mirror.  

The Makeup Eraser Mini

I haven't used this yet, but from reviews I've read I'm hopeful it'll be an amazing tool for makeup removal!  In my favorite color too.  This had to be in there!

NCLA Born on the 4th Nail Lacquer

{NCLA Born on the 4th}

The first thing I thought of when I saw this nail lacquer was how much fun my girls and I would have doing festive manis for the 4th this summer!  Sparkle and patriotism in a bottle.  Yes, please and thank you!

Sunnylife Inflatable Swan Drink Holder

Truth be told, this was the first item in my cart!  I just thought it was too cute!  I can hardly wait to toss this in our pool this summer with some floating refreshments inside!

Winky Lux Lip Pill in Bunny

{Lip Pill in Bunny via Winky Lux}

This is another item that I'd received in a previous Must Have box.  I love the shade, the packaging, everything!  Online they sell for $14 and I scored it for around $4.  Even though I still have a full tube, when you find a color you love at that kind of discount it's a pretty irresistible purchase!

Stowaway Cosmetics Dawn to Dusk Palette

{Dawn to Dusk Eye Palette via Stowaway}

I wish I could tell you what I think of this palette in action, but I've yet to use it.  It'll make a favorites post if it's worthy. ;)

Three // My Newest Addiction:  Loaded Curly Fries from Arby's

I tried the loaded curly fries on Arby's 2/$5 menu this week and oh my goodness were they so good!  I mean, curly fries, cheese sauce, real bacon, and ranch, how could they not be?!  I may need an intervention.  Send help, and napkins. ;)

Four // Children's Place 75% off Haul

As long as Little One will fit into The Children's Place clothing, I will be shopping there!  So much cuteness at itty bitty prices.  This week I ordered such fun pieces and they arrived just a couple days later.  Check out the adorableness!

1   //   2   //   3

Any guesses what she and I had in mind when we chose that first pink polka dotted fabulousness for her?  If you're picturing Minnie Mouse ears and a Mickey ice cream bar as its accessories then you know us well!  Stay tuned later this year for pics of her posing on Main Street in this cuteness!  The TACO' CLOCK tee glows in the dark!  So fun!  If only they sold adult sizes. ;)  Lastly (pictured anyway, I did get another lit'l box from there but those are Valentine's gifts so I'm keeping them off the blog  just in case she sees this :)), this perfectly twirly pink hearted sweetheart of a dress will be my littlest Valentine's attire for Heart Day next week!  So, so cute!  ...and did I mention I ordered it all during a 75% off sale?!  *happy sigh!*  Oh, how I love a fantastic deal!

Five // Sharing These Made My Week!

I can't resist wrapping up this loves post up with three things I've shared this week that made my heart so happy it could burst!  One is a trip report of my favorite birthday ever!  What an incredible day that was and recapping it for you guys was too much fun!  Second, a post about marriage, one of the greatest blessings of my life.  Lastly, my favorite craft tutorial along with a love story from when my husband and I were just teenagers.  *Swoon!*  If you missed any of these I'd love it if you'd pop over there next! ...

Adventure is out there!

Direct Link:

Trip Report Tuesday: California Day 4 // My Epic Birthday Hike at Yosemite National Park

Marriage Matters

Direct link:

Keeping My Marriage Strong

My Love Story Written in Wildflowers

Direct link:

Flower Pen Bouquet Tutorial & Love Story Written in Wildflowers

Thanks for popping by for a bloggy visit today!  Wishing you a fabulous weekend ahead! 

Join me in the adventures to come!

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be sure to say, "Hello!"  

I'd love to come check out your Friday favorites too! ;)

Five Loves on Friday!

Hello, friends!  I have so much to share with you today!  Ready.  Set.  Five Loves Time!

1.  Railroad Days 2015

Day 1 - Saturday, July 11

For those of you who have been around for a while you may remember one of my favorite summertime family traditions, Railroad Days!  This was our 8th year attending the weekend long event and we had a fabulous time!  You pay just $15 dollars for wristbands for the whole family.  Those grant you entrance into five local attractions throughout the weekend.  Complimentary transportation is offered between the venues which makes it feel like a vacation in our own city!  Here's a look at what we did on the first day...

Historic General Dodge House

General Dodge was known as "the greatest railroad builder of all time".  If you're interested you can read a little about our city's most famous resident here.

More on that cute bag Little One has in #3!


RailsWest Railroad Museum

Lunchtime // Picnic in the Park

Union Pacific Railroad Museum

Little One setting off (faux) explosions to make way for the railroad // The traditional shot of Princess and Little One in the museum's photo spot // Painting of Abraham Lincoln and General Dodge // Little One posing with a statue of her favorite president



2.  Railroad Days 2015

Day 2 - Sunday, July 12


Lauritzen Gardens

Botanical garden goodness makes my heart happy!


Our Traditional Day 2 Lunchtime Spot
The Old Spaghetti Works in the Old Market

Every salad bar should be on the back of a vintage truck.  Don't you think?


The Durham Museum

Another wonderful Railroad Days weekend goes down in the books!  See last year's Railroad Days fun here.

3.  Little One's Hand Decorated Bags

Little One had a blast decorating canvas bags!  She created one to tote around essentials like water, snacks, a wet brush, and hand sanitizer to Railroad Days.  (How cute is that?!)  While we were waiting in line to board a trolley a lady who works the event each year approached her and inquired about it.  "I have to ask, where did you get your bag?"  When we told her that Little One decorated it herself she went on and on about how much she loved it!  A few minutes later she tapped me on the shoulder and said, "Maybe we should have her make those for us to sell!"  I joked that we could set up a little stand on the sidewalk there and sell them to people attending the event.  Honestly, if given the opportunity Little One would be ALL OVER THAT!  Just before we boarded the trolley we were asked one last question, "Can I take a photo of your bag?"  My little sweetie was beaming!  Later when I asked what her favorite part of that day was, she answered, "It was really fun when that nice lady complimented my bag!"  My heart melted.

The second bag was extra special as it was created in celebration of our sweet cousin Emily's birthday.  Little One added all of E's favorite characters and even incorporated one of her favorite rides, Carousel of Progress!  She finished it off by writing "Emily" in "Disney letters" on the back.  Dropping off this gift was also one of the highlights of our week.  Visiting with her and my Aunt Ann is always a treat!  We crammed as much Disney talk as we possibly could into our brief chat!  I adore my Disney loving family! :)

4.  I  WON!

Mrs. Mickey Waffles hosted such a fun giveaway this week ...and I won!  Cue the confetti, and happy dance with me now, friends!  She offered winners their choice of Disney scented wax melts from La Petite Bougie on Etsy.  I had such a hard time deciding which scent to request.  I ended up going with Pineapple Whip and can hardly wait for its arrival!  Meanwhile I'll be daydreaming of Dole Whips.  Thanks again, Mrs. Mickey Waffles!!

5.  July POPSUGAR Must Have Box

This month's must have box was so much fun!

Here's a closer look at the fabulous items tucked inside this month's box...

Henri Bendel Signature Stripe Canvas Dopp Kit // PopDental Portable Toothbrush // Hallmark Signature Greeting Cards // Supergoop! Defense Refresh Setting Mist SPF 50 // The Good Bean Fruit & No-Nut Bar, Chocolate Berry // Sorial Card Case // Yes To Blueberries Cleansing Facial Wipes 

I am looking forward to using each and every item from this box!  I could not be any happier with my new goodies!!!  

If you want the mailman to make you feel like it's your birthday next month, click HERE for your own box of must haves!  When I purchased mine I was given the coupon code REFER5 to share with friends.  Enter that promo code and it will take $5 off your first box - WOOHOO!!!

Thanks so much for visiting today!  It's such a treat to have you here!  Have a beautiful weekend!

POPSUGAR Must Have March 2015 Box Reveal

Last week I received my first POPSUGAR Must Have Box, and it seriously felt like my birthday came very early!  I'm so excited to share its contents with ya today, lovelies!

For anyone unfamiliar with POPSUGAR Must Have, it is a monthly surprise subscription box.  It runs $39.99/month, however I spotted a discount code to receive $5 off my first box, paying $34.99 for the one featured in this post.  The suggested retail value of the items within this box comes to $121.68 + a deluxe sampler box from Benefit cosmetics.  In other words, I definitely got more than my money's worth!  Take a look!...

You all know my obsession with the Wet Brush so when I saw that cheery yellow cuteness, right away I was thrilled!  Seeing the mystery package all wrapped up in giant bubble wrap, and a hint of BRIGHT hot pink underneath got me giddy to dig right in!

bliss micromagic microdermabrasion treatment

This was the product leaked in the March box's spoiler so I was already anticipating this goody!  I had high hopes for it as it had oodles of 5-star reviews on both Ulta & Sephora's sites.  I tried it last night and it did not disappoint.  It made my face feel amazing!  For best results they recommend using it once to twice weekly.  At the retail price of $48, I will be using once a week and savoring the wonders of this spa in a tube!

Greenmarket Purveying Co. | The Archivist Lemon+Cucumber Reed Diffuser Kit  

I'll admit I've never used a diffuser before.  I typically have glowing candles, scentsy wax warming, and a Bath & Body Works Wallflower plugged in most hours of the day.  I've never thrown a diffuser into the scent mix though.  I doubted you'd smell anything unless standing a few feet away.  I was definitely critical before tossing those reeds in the bottle.  That quickly changed!  I knew I was a diffuser convert when my husband returned home and the first words out of his mouth were asking what smelled so good!  He picked up on it from an entirely different room!  This lemon + cucumber combo is springtime perfection and I couldn't be happier about having this in my living room!  I also received a 20% coupon from Green Market Purveying Co..  We'll see if I can resist putting that one to use! ;)

If you're a reed and oil kinda girl, please share your fave in the comments below!  I'd love to know where you get your home sweet smelling home fix! 

Samudra | POPSUGAR Exclusive Pink Pina Zip Pouch

First off I'll say that I would never pay the suggested retail price of $40 for this pouch.  If I saw it in Target's dollar spot for $3, it'd find its way into my cart.  If it were much more than that I'd probably keep walking.  That being said, I do LOVE this pouch!  I'm a fan of all things pink (and this bright hot pink is so fun), add my favorite fruit and I'm instantly smiling!  I couldn't resist tossing some things inside to see how much I could fit into this baby.  It easily held a book, bottle of sunblock, a bag of snacks, a lit'l brush, and hair ribbon.  It's likely to be my go-to poolside bag, and find its way into my suitcase many o' trips to come!

Knock Knock | What to Pack Pad

As an avid list maker, I totally appreciated this pad.  It definitely doesn't include everything I pack, but it does have some blank spaces to add more items.  I'll likely use this for weekend getaways.  Now if we're prepping for one of our longer vacations, this wouldn't cut it for me.  I need much more detailed (we're talking multiple pages) lists for a week or two of soaking up Disney magic!  Perhaps I should take the tip underneath that header, "bring half of what you think you need".  Personally, I tend to be a "more is more" kinda packer!  :)  In any case, these 60 sheets of hand-drawn cuteness will be doodled on and checked off in prep for our next weekend trip, wherever that may be to!

Wet Brush | The Squirt

As previously mentioned, this is an item that immediately got me excited!  I love our (tear avoiding, extreme tangle taming) wet brushes! Having a small "squirt" size brush to toss in my bag for touch ups on the go will be super handy for this mom of 2 girls!  L-O-V-E!

Halfpops | Chipotle Barbeque

I'm a big fan of anything spicy so this flavor was the perfect fit for my taste buds!  The bag contained two servings at 130 calories each.  Honestly I opened, snacked, and packed it away probably four or five times!  It didn't take many flavor packed half popped kernels for a lit'l snack fix.  I think I'd actually purchase these, but they aren't sold in a single grocery store in my city.  I enjoyed them while they lasted though!  If I find them in an aisle nearer to me, I'd love to try aged white cheddar. Yum! 

Benefit Cosmetics Deluxe Sample | Roller Lash Mascara and POREfessional

I was over the moon when I saw the Roller Lash mascara as I've heard such great things about it!  I've used it a few times and am loving it so far!  Hooray for a sample to test out before purchasing! 

I've yet to try the POREfessional.  It's not a product I'd typically purchase, but that's one of the reasons these surprise boxes are fun!  Sometimes you come across gems you never knew you needed in life!  We'll see if that's the case with this.  With 400+ reviews it scores a 4.5 star average rating, from people who actually paid retail price for it.  So it's worth checking out (for free ;)).

The Verdict

Overall, I was very pleased with this box.  One of the best things about it was having the opportunity to try some products that I normally wouldn't splurge on, or just wouldn't have considered using (like the diffuser)!  It feels like the week after Christmas here, using fun new finds,  while anticipating enjoying others in the months to come! 

April POPSUGAR Must Have boxes are already sold out, but if you're interested in getting in on the fun, you can order the May box HERE.  Use coupon code REFER5 to save $5 off your first box too! :)

Subscription boxes are so much fun!  What's your favorite?  I'm loving POPSUGAR!  It's a bit on the pricey side, but the value is fabulous!  Glad I splurged to try it this month! 

Five Loves on Friday!

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HAPPY FRIDAY!!!  Hope you've enjoyed a lovely week, friends!  Here are 5 loves from mine:

1.  Sparkly Sweetness

Little One was given a jewelry making kit this week.  She immediately went to {sparkle} town, handcrafting cuteness for her family, friends, and dolls, of course! ;)  Check out that lit'l trifecta of friendship perfection up top there.  She made a simply sweet bracelet for herself and her two BFFs from church.  This mama's heart is oh-so-full!


2.  POPSUGAR Must Have + a $5 off coupon for Y-O-U!
I am SO EXCITED!  I ordered my first POPSUGAR Must Have box this week!!! Hooray for happy mail coming in March!  

Have you heard of POPSUGAR Must Have?

The best in fashion, beauty, home, fitness, food, and more delivered straight to your door. - POPSUGAR

I've swooned over POPSUGAR box reveals for so long now.  When I scored a $5 discount I thought it was the perfect excuse to pretend it was my birthday order a box of goodies!  

 {via}

I have seen a spoiler revealing one of next month's surprises!  I will just say that this goody goes for more than the price of box and scores 5 star reviews at Sephora! Curious? Here's a link to the item IF you can't help but take a peek!  Long story short, I've already got more than my money's worth! YAY!!!

Here's a link if you'd like to snag a March box too!

+

Upon my purchase, POPSUGAR gave me a code to share with friends!  Use coupon code:  REFER5 to save $5! ... Woohoo for deals! :)

3.  Loving my dishes with a dash of Disney magic!

We broke in our new plates last night with Enchiladas Cancun.  I adore every last Disney detail!  Looking forward to serving family dinners on these for years to come!

4.  I found out where the missing socks go!

This video made my heart smile!  I'd LOVE it if this was where those darn missing socks ended up! ;)


5. DATE NIGHT!!!

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My parents invited the girls for a sleepover tonight, which means fun for ALL of us!  I'm excited for them to make some sweet new memories with Grandpa Bob & Grandma Kathy ...& I look forward to making a few of my own with my Lovey!  Whether we decide to go out or grab take out, it'll be a good night, no doubt! ;)

Thanks so much for stopping by today!  It's a joy to have you here!

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Earlier this week at Chatting Over Chocolate:

Disney Store Haul!

Wednesday PINSday: Big Hero 6 Edition

Join me in the adventures to come!

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Linking up with:
   

If you're visiting from one of the link ups, be sure to say "Hello!" ...I'd love to come check out your Friday 5 too! ;)

Full Disclosure:  This post contains referral links to POPSUGAR Must Have.  If you are so sweet as to order a box through my referral link, you could help me to possibly earn a free box in the future!  At no added cost to you, that'd sure make my heart oh-so-happy!  As always, thanks for supporting my blog, lovely readers & cherished friends!