In my heart and in my cart + other things

In My Heart -

Well, Thanksgiving is fresh on my mind today. We spent the holiday traipsing four hours downstate to stay with my husband’s family. I wrote somewhat extensively about being back in our hometown this week on Substack, and I’m happy to report that the feeling holds up. To summarize: right after we got married, my husband and I moved 250ish miles away for my new job.. And then, after we did that whole upheaval for me, I did not adjust well. I was basically sad for two years. We traveled back to our hometown that first holiday season and I felt such a sigh of relief, even though it was temporary. Eleven years later, we’re still far away from home, but we’ve adjusted and things are fine. That said, it still feels so freaking good to be back in familiar territory. As soon as we pull off the highway and I recognize every street and know exactly how many minutes it takes to get from my in-laws to the grocery store and back again, and see all our old stomping grounds, I just relax. It’s the best feeling.

I always wish we didn’t live so far away from both sides of our families, but such is life. For now. Nothing is forever and I still expect to live in a duplex with my sister when we’re old ladies. Can you imagine? The most fun!

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In other fun news, my mother in law celebrated her 73rd birthday on Monday. She has one of those birthdays that is sometimes on Thanksgiving and of course, always around Thanksgiving so she often gets a pumpkin pie instead of a cake. She loves peanut butter but is allergic to chocolate, which is such a crime because there is no purer marriage, but alas. I made her a really great fluffernutter bar via @eatsbynatt and it was the bomb. So freaking good. A second batch was made to share at Thanksgiving.

A food blogger I am not, but look at this thing! A solid peanut butter cookie base, with peanut butter frosting, and then topped with a bunch of marshmallow fluff. Delicious!

In My Cart -

+If you love Froot Loops or Fruity Pebbles, have I got a treat for you! I stumbled on these wax melts at Walmart this week and it is dramatic to say the scent is life changing, but also, my life is changed forever.

+Searching for an elevated but work appropriate get-up for my company’s holiday party. I’m dreaming of a monochrome look, and waffling on this satin midi or this sparkly midi as an anchor. Both are a steal from Old Navy.

+Flavored coffees are hit-or-miss IMO, but the subtle flavor of the Peppermint Mocha from Target is great.

+Game people, gather ‘round! This Grinch-y game of Operation is perfect for playing after dinner all December long.

+Nostalgic and CUTE.