5th Annual Great Pumpkin Swap

I was thrilled to participate in the 5th Annual Great Pumpkin swap with Becky and Kristin this year. I was paired up with Rose and I couldn't wait to go shopping for her. I was equally excited to receive the box she sent me. Here are the goodies she sent me:

*The coffee sign---I LOVED this! Any wall decor as cute as this is a staple in my home. I can't wait to put it up in our new home (we're moving soon).

*Pumpkin Spice Monkey bread---Rose sent this at the perfect time. I had to bring in treats for school for the staff on Friday. By the second lunch period, they were gone! Safe to say, they were a big hit!

*Be Happy coffee mug---Somehow Rose knew I love coffee and this adorable mug is perfect for me. Cute coffee mugs are my weakness.

*Candle---You can never go wrong with a candle. And this one smells amazing. I've already lit it and my house smells like fall; perfect timing for this amazing fall in Chicago.

*Cute pumpkin holder---This cute pumpkin decoration was filled with chocolate, my favorite! I'm not going to lie, all the chocolate is already gone since I took this picture.

And I think my favorite thing about my whole box was that she got something for my fur babies!!!

This is Tio with the ball Rose got him. He wouldn't let me play with it with him. He loves his balls!

And this little toy was a favorite of my little 4 pound dog, Mickey. However, it's on the table because it was the center of a doggy argument...they both wanted it at the same time. So, it's up here until my pups can learn to share :)

I'm so happy I was able to participate in this swap and I'm so glad I was able to swap with Rose. 

Thanks for hosting Kristin and Becky. :)

Book Review: Love Your Life, Not Theirs

This is just what I needed to read at this point in my life. This book was life changing!

I had the opportunity to review Rachel Cruze's new book, Love Your Life, Not Theirs. Now, if you're not familiar with Rachel Cruze she is the daughter of money guru, Dave Ramsey. However, she has a fresh new take on money and how society these days has certain expectations of us financially. 

In her latest book, she does an amazing job at conveying her 7 money habits in order to live the life you want. Everyone can relate to this book in one way or another; social media comparisons, dealing with the financial pressure of society, the power of creating habits with money and the importance of giving. 

A few of my favorite Rachel quotes from the book:

"Most of what you see on Facebook and Instagram is enhanced. It's a public display of our best self."

 “I believe that our culture is struggling with the diseases of selfishness and discontentment, and generosity is the only cure I know.” 

"It made me realize how important it is not just to be aware of your habit but also to take control of them if you want to truly take control of your life."

This is a must read book! I highly recommend it.

My Top 5 Podcasts

Lately, I've been listening to a lot of podcasts. I have about a 30 minute commute to and from work every day, so I have a lot of time to listen to podcasts. Here are my top 5. I'm always looking for new podcasts to listen to, so if you have one that you love, please share it with me!

1. The Lively Show---I recently started listening to Jess and I love her. She shares advice on living your life with intentionality and purpose. She talks a lot about how to find your passion. She is currently traveling the world to try to find her purpose in her life. I highly suggest it for any female in their 20s, 30s and 40s. 

2. Willow Creek Community Church--- I've been recently trying to figure out Christianity and how it pertains in my life. I wasn't raised super religious, but I've been curious about it and how it can benefit me. I love this church and how their sermons can relate to me no matter what day of the week it is. 

3. The Dave Ramsey Show---I've always been a weirdo-geek about money. Once I found Dave, all my finanicial questions and worries have been answered. He gives such simple steps and advice for getting out of debt and becoming wealthy. My husband and I are currently on baby step 2 and almost done. His podcast is an open radio show. People all over the US call in and ask Dave their personal finanical quesitons and he gives them his honest opinion. I just love Dave! 

4. Dear Sugar---This podcast is done by Cheryl Strayed and Steve Almond. They answer questions from listeners that pertain to love, heart break, family and life sturggles. Readers write in and the "Sugars" answer their thought-provoking letters. It's a good listen! They have some amazing advice. PS. Cheryl Strayed is the women who wrote 'Wild', her memior. 

5. Serial---I listened to this podcast back when it was the big hit! I'm keeping it on my Podcast list because I'm hopeful there will be another season with a new criminal story. If you haven't listened to Serial, I highly suggest it. PS. I'm Team Adnan 

What are your favorite podcasts? Please Share!