Amy Marie

Last week I shared Valentine’s Day gifts for the special gal in your life…today this one is for the boys! We are just two weeks away from the hallmark holiday and whether you celebrate or not these gifts are year round.

I shared the sweet story about how Justin and I met on Valentine’s Day many year ago, so hop over to that post to read the story!

Now lets get to those Valentine’s Day gift ideas!

1 – Amazon Fire Tablet

Fun for some at-home entertainment!

2 – Travel Toiletry Bag

If we ever get to travel again… I have the Vera Bradley version of this and it works great and is great for travel!

3 – Keruig Mini

A lot of people have transitioned to working from home, this is the perfect gift for any home or home office!

4 – Toolbelt

This idea stemmed from Justin and I doing a lot of work on the house recently and him saying “I need a tool belt.”

5 – “What I Love About You” Book

You can’t go wrong with a thoughtful gift!

6 – Slippers

A great cozy gift!

7 – Tissue Massage Gun

Those at home work-outs getting your man down? Here is a special treat!

8 – Timex Watch

*hint hint* for the man in your life thats always late… or just a thoughtful gift!

9 – Fire TV Stick

Great for the man in your life who has “seen everything on Netflix”.

What are your favorite Valentine’s Day gifts to give?

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I can’t believe that it is the end of January and that I am writing this post already. This month I read two books this month which is a lot more than I read all of last year so lets get a little applause for that! I go through seasons with reading where I either read a ton of books in a year or I don’t read at all. 2021 is going to be a reading year for me. I set the goal of 24 books, 2 a month and were already on track per my Goodreads account.

Justin got me a Kindle for Christmas and I was shocked at how much I enjoyed reading on it! I’ve always been a “physical book” person, however there is something about the lightness and portability of the Kindle. I can read anywhere and not feel like I bringing a bulky book around with me, read in the bath, etc.

I also started a bookstagram! There is not much content on it currently as I am trying to figure it all out, but I thought it might be a fun project to work on this year and motivate me a bit! Let’s be bookstagram friends! And if you have one, let me know!

Anxious People by Fredrick Backman

3.5/5 Stars

I loved the storyline of this book, but over the book didn’t wow me. This was my first time ready a Fredrick Backman book and from what I have understood from speaking to others he does have a specific writing style. Like I said the storyline was great, but there were a lot of characters, which made the story difficult to follow at times. I listened to this book on Audible and the reader was also not my favorite either, I think if I actually read the book, I may have enjoyed it more.

American Royals by Katherine McGee

5/5 Stars

I loved this book! If you also enjoy a YA read then you would enjoy this! I read this book pretty quickly and couldn’t get enough of it! It was a sweet story with love and drama… which is my favorite to read! I’m excited to dive into Majesty!

What did you read this month? Whats on your TBR?

My TBR list:

How to Fail at Flirting by Denise Williams

One to Watch by Kate Stayman – London

Followers by Megan Angelo

The Ex Talk by Rachel Lynn Solomon

Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and whether you celebrate the hallmark holiday or not. I put together a little gift guide I’m sure the special gal in your life with like anytime of year!

Valentines’s Day is special day for Justin and I… its the day we met! I always enjoy telling this story! Short version: Two kids walked into the same bar on Valentines day (we has a mutual friend) not looking for love, hit it off, did not exchange numbers, ran into each-other at the gym the next morning and the rest is history! Now we have a house, 3 dogs and a baby on the way! This year there will be no big night out for dinner, but I’m planning on making something special and maybe ordering dessert from a local bakery. Maybe chocolate cake (topped with ice-cream for me) and Tiramisu for Justin – his favorite!

I put together a Valentine’s Day gift guide with items that I already use and love or are on my personal wishlist!

1 – Kate Spade Heart Earrings

I love these cute statement earrings! They are great all year round and can be worn casual or dressed up.

2 – Beautycounter Flawless in 5

Always a favorite to include on my gift guide. 6 clean beauty products for one great price. You can’t go wrong with that! I use all of these products daily.

3 – Keurig

A lot of people have transitioned to working from home, this is the perfect gift for any home or home office!

4 – Top Knot Headbands

Headbands are my favorite accessory to add to any outfit. It comes in handy hiding my unwashed hair during my pop-up zoom meetings!

5 – “What I Love About You” book

You can never go wrong with a thoughtful gift!

6 – Kindle

I got one for Christmas and am obsessed with it! Perfect girl for anyone who loves reading!

7 – Slippers

A great cozy gift that pairs well with #9!

8 – Dry Brush

Self-care is the most important gift! Dry brushing smoothes skin, removes toxins, and improves circulation!

9 – Pajamas

Who doesn’t love a fresh pair of matching pajamas!

I hope you enjoyed this Valentine’s Day gift guide, let me know what is on your wishlist?

I thought it might be fun to share my recent Amazon purchases every once in a while. There are a lot of nursery themed items here so be warned . I did buy one thing for myself… 😬

Shop my recent Amazon purchases here!

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When Justin and I bought our house we took a lot of time to research home security systems. We are thankful to live in a community that is pretty private (one way in one way out road), mostly retired neighbors who are home most of the day, and were everyone knows everyone. We feel pretty safe here. However, that doesn’t bad things can’t and won’t happen. Although, I work from home most of the week there are days when I am out of the home for multiple hours. We wanted to ensure not only was our home safe when we left that our dogs were safe inside as well.

We looked at a variety of security systems until we found one that fit our needs. We did not need anything high-tech, but we wanted to be notified when there was action or movement by our front door or garage. We settled on a Blink security system. This motion censored camera connects to our phones and notifies us of movement as well as records any movement where we have them stationed.

These came in handy around the holidays when we were have packages delivered daily and you were hearing all those horror stories about presents being stolen. We’ve also had some big packages delivered such as our nursery furniture. It was nice to be able to check on the package during the day when we were not home.

The camera system also comes in handy when the dogs are playing outside. We have an electric fence, which the dogs do a great job at however they often wander from the back yard to the front if I am occupied in the house with something. Our fence stretches the front, but it is nice to get a notification right to my phone so I can monitor that they don’t cross the line. They get easily distracted by the walkers… we have a pretty active neighborhood.

Using this device has helped Justin and I both feel safe and know that our dogs are safe too! But… how can we keep our device safe?

It’s easy to put a camera on your house and think all is well and fine, but someone could easily dismantle it… hit it with a bat, rip it off… who knows. If someone is desperate enough I’m sure they would be willing to do anything. So how can we ensure that our camera stays safe from natural weather occurrences, people with ill will etc.

“The best camera or optical sensor is only as good as the dome that covers it. “

Criterion Technology, Inc.

This is where I would like to introduce you to Criterion Technology, Inc. 100% made in the USA with over 30 years of experience Criterion Technology is the industry leader of the highest quality clear component parts molded out of polycarbonate, acrylic, and an exclusive optical grade nylon. Criterion’s injection molded optical domes and enclosures provide excellent coverage and protection for high definition cameras up to the latest 4k camera technology. 

How great is that? There is no use in buying an expensive security system if you are not going to invest in protecting in. Keep yourself and your loved ones safe this year with a little help from Criterion Technology, Inc.

You may have not thought of home security until today or maybe you just stumbled on to this post. Home security was completely new to me and as I did more research I learned why is was so essential. Now that we have a bebe’ on the way keeping our home safe has become our #1 priority. I am thankful that there are companies out there that safety is there #1 priority as well.

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In our home we have hardwood floors, which is new for me. The home I grew up in did not have hardwood flooring so learning how to care for them was something I needed to learn how to do. You might think… really Amy? Do you needed to learn how to take care of a floor… uh ya… You want you floors to last? Cause little damage to them? Increase the value of your home? Well, you have to take care of your floors.

Methods for Cleaning

• Soft Bristled Broom
• Damp Mop or Microfiber Pad
• Remove Sticky Debris ASAP
• Vacuum with Soft Nozzle

When it comes to cleaning your hardwood floor always take into account the type of product you are using. You want to avoid using items that might scratch or nick the flooring. Think of products that are soft and will cause the least amount of damage to the floor. Care for spills or sticky debris immediately rather than letting them sit. For my floor I regularly vacuum as well as use a microfiber pad cloth to pick up any additional dust. We have *3* dogs, so vacuuming is a every other day thing for me. I usually do a deep clean one time a week where I pull out every things, get in all the corners, but every other day its just a quick sweep of the house.

How to Avoid Damage

• Don’t Ignore Wet Spots or Stains
• No Need for Heavy Equipment
• Avoid Harmful Cleaning Products
• Do Not Steam Clean

As mentioned about its important to not use any products that would cause harm. This includes old fashioned remedies that use baking soda, vinegar and dish soap to clean floors. Those items are a no-go these days. Same with steam cleaning, save that for your tile floors!

Address any wet spots immediately, over time those wet spot can cause unseen damage under your floors. Observe in your kitchen where you are more likely to have water on the floor. Is it in front of your sink? Get a mat! For us, its where the dogs water bowl is… they can make quite a mess. We have a mat rubber mat to collect the water as well as towel to collect and wipe up sloppy dog drinking water!

Safe Cleaning Products

Where going to need some dive deep into our brain back to high school Chemistry to unlock our knowledge of a neutral pH… anyone remember – its 7! Keep this in mind when looking for products. Anything with a pH 7 and lower is fine… anything higher will have too much alkaline.

Replacing Hardwood Floors

Could your home use an update? Do you have hardwood floors in your home that have been neglected for years? If you are on the search for high quality, hardwood flooring in Atlanta consider TriArt Hardwood Floors. TriArt Hardwoods Floors – Atlanta is a hardwood flooring company that has built its reputation on our commitment to quality craftsmanship and excellent customer experience. This was the goal Hugo Simoes set for the company when he started the business.

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I wanted to put together a practical gift guide together for our teachers this year. A lot of teachers had to transition to teaching online overnight, which meant they might not have have all the materials they needed to be prepared. I have taught online for a few years and wanted share some of my favorite online teaching items that a teacher in your life may also enjoy!

1 // Laptop Stand

This is one of my favorite items – after stacking my laptop on books, boxes or anything else I could find I finally purchased a laptop stand. This is a key item for those who spend most of their day working on their laptop. Its an ideal height for zoom call and helps with posture (so that your not leaning over your laptop).

2 // Wireless Keyboard and Mouse

This is an add on item to the laptop stand above. Typing with your laptop on a stand is not easy… or comfortable. I really love the combination of the laptop stand with keyboard and mouse. Give the gift of better posture this holiday season 😉

3 // Keurig

You can never go wrong with coffee! Early mornings, late nights, zoom meetings, the list could go on. Coffee is always a must and a cherished gift!

4 // Tumbler

Whether to keep your water cold or coffee warm… a tumbler is always a great gift. I may have an overload, but I can’t get enough of cute mugs or tumblers.

5 // Coffee Warmer

Ask your favorite teacher how often they are running to the microwave to warm up their coffee. Personally, I warm mine up at least 5 times… no lie! I can only sneak sips while I’m teaching so my coffee gets cold quickly. A coffee warmer is a life saver!

6 // Oil Diffuser

I’m all about creating a vibe and an environment. An essential oil diffuser is essential (haha) to that! This is great gift for any teacher looking to feel more energized or calm depending what vibe they are trying to create.

7 // Flawless in Five

My favorite set of products. An entire makeup look in an easy 5-minute routine. This is a great gift for any teacher! The set includes:

• Skin Twin Featherweight Foundation or Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer
• Skin Twin Creamy Concealer
• Color Define Brow Pencil or Brilliant Brow Gel
• Lengthening or Volumizing Mascara
• Satin Powder Blush
• Beyond Gloss

8// Blue Light Glasses

Being in front of the computer all day can be harmful. It doesn’t hurt to use a little protection.

Now get out there a show your favorite teacher how much you love them! What are you gifting your favorite teacher this year?

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*This is a sponsored post with Saw Trax, all opinions are my own*

Home renovation can be expensive…. this is probably not news to most. Depending on the size of your project or how many projects there are your budget may vary. In todays post I am going to share a few things to consider before jumping into a renovation project.

What needs to get done? Budget? Timeline?

Start by doing an evaluation of your home… what needs to get done? Are there any projects that hold significant importance? What I mean by that is… any current home hazards that need to be addresses immediately. For Justin and I when we first moved in our home needed to add a radon system and replace a cracked bathtub. Those were items that needed to be addressed immediately upon buying our home – so they were first on the list for us!

Next, lets look at your budget and timeline. The most important thing to remember is that all your home projects do not need to happen overnight, this month or even this year. Pick a project a month or a project a year, whatever works for you!

What can you do yourself? Or have done professionally?

Not everything can be done yourself… plumbing, electrical, structure etc. Many think that all projects can be done yourself but unfortunately this may cause a bigger issue. Which then leads to bringing in a professional and will end up costing more money. Shop around for prices on the projects that you need to get done, get quality recommendations from friends, and include these types of expenses in your budget.

For simple home projects, there are lots of tutorials, books, and classes that can help. Sometimes you can even find a class at your local Home Depot or Lowes.

Quality Equipment

Big projects may require some heavy lifting. When it comes to heavy lifting it’s important to invest in high quality items. Saw Trax is an Atlanta, Georgia based company has been in business since 1988 and focusing on selling quality work equipment.

Their door dolly is equipment to carry up to 800 pounds of weight, which takes the heavy lifting of home renovations off your back!

Buying Items Second-Hand

No, unfortunately you will not find most of the construction items you need at your local thrift store. However, you may find some items at your local Home Deport or Lowes. Here is a little secret… people return paint and you can buy it for half the price! It’s a hit or a miss but most days, but look often! You may find paint for a bathroom or small bedroom.

Search around online, for example: Facebook marketplace. I have found unopened boxes of subway tile and other various items. Some people buy too much for a project so you can often buy it from them for a discounted price.

Look online for a local Habit for Humanity store… or restore as they call it!

“Habitat ReStores are independently owned reuse stores operated by local Habitat for Humanity organizations that accept donations and sell home improvement items to the public at a fraction of the retail price.

Proceeds are used to help build strength, stability, self-reliance and shelter in local communities and around the world — a good deal for you, your community and the environment.”

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Recently Justin and I announced we were expecting out first bebe in May 2021! We are so thrilled to be growing our family. I am officially in my second trimester and thought it might be fun to look back on the first. Some women have little pain during their pregnancy and others…. throw up every 30 minutes… I’ll let you guess where I fall on that scale. 🤢

Cravings

Junk. Junk. Junk. Ugh. If I were to envision my ideal pregnancy I would be eating fruit, vegetables, salad and all the plant-based goodness. Well, baby hates that. I have wanted Cheetos, greasy food (breakfast sandwiches, hamburgers, etc.), soda, and ice cream. Which, is kind of crazy because those are things I’ve eaten in the past but never in this much quantity. Those types of items were always a treat, now it’s my livelihood. It’s crazy that I went from eating 100% vegan in January, did meatless Mondays after that and now can’t stand the sight of a salad. I am super hopeful for my second trimester and being able to choke down healthier options.

Emotions

My poor husband is all that should be under this. I have been a wreck and honestly the simplest things upset me. A commercial, TV show, reading an email the wrong way… etc. There is also the weight of being pregnant during Covid and having to go alone to doctors appointments. It has been hard for both Justin and I that we can not experience this together. I try to film and record everything for him and then we try to share those special moments together at home. Will these emotions end in my second trimester? Probably not!

Exhaustion

I have been really tired especially during the previous month. Afternoon naps we a must and getting out of bed in the morning was almost impossible. I have now started to gain some energy back and I am so thankful!

Weight

This is funny to talk about (especially if you read what my current diet looks like), but I have lost weight! I have been so sick and unable to keep much down, that it really took a toll on my weight. I was shocked! At my most recent appointment Idid gain one pound back. I have been trying to include a protein smoothie each day. Those do not always agree with me, on the days they don’t I make another one. I’m being a little more stubborn about this – telling me stomach “You must eat this!”, “You have to keep this down”. Do I sound crazy?

Symptoms

Other than nausea, I’ve been hit with some pretty intense lower back pain. I have never experienced pain like this and credit everyone who lives with it daily. There are days where bending over is impossible, sitting or standing too long hurts and paint shoots up my back and down my legs. A heating pad and baths every other day have been best friend. I have been able to stabilize the pain with this those two items as well as some light stretching. But plan to reach out to a physical therapist for pre/post natal therapy.

Preparing the Dogs

I would like to think Harper and Bailey know exactly what is going on when I talk to them about the baby, but also know their world is about to be rocked. I like to think they are going to be the best 4-legged big sisters and Harper is going to follow in the footsteps of Nana from Peter Pan (*note to self: watch Peter Pan with Harper and Bailey). As of right now Justin and I are doing a ton of research on how to introduce a baby to dogs, as well as constantly talking about the baby. I think they get it… although they have been the center of our lives for the past 6 years so I hope they don’t mind sharing the spotlight.

Also this…

Skip this if you don’t like gross things, or keep reading to be entertained…. As I’ve mentioned previously. I’ve been sick, lost weight, blah blah, blah… Well friends, I have thrown up in our hallway 2x so far because I’ve been unable to make it to the bathroom as well as peed my pants while standing at the sink throwing up because that was far as I could make it. I had to both pee and throw up so my body decided to do both at once. Thankfully, we have no visitors during this time, so Justin ever so kindly put an orange home depot bucket in the bathroom so I can puke and pee at the same time. He is a keeper I tell ya.

So that is where I currently am. Excited to be in my second trimester and see what else is to come. I feel like I am coming off as complaining but I promise you Justin and I are so thankful. Each ailment I experience I find myself being thankful to experience them because I know the greatest thing is to come. This is all temporary… well except the exhaustion… and maybe peeing my pants 😉

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Layered Doormats For The Holidays!

Currently Vol. 3

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1 Doormat // Here Comes Amazon

2 Doormat // It’s The Most Wonderful Time

3 Doormat // Home For The Holidays (Similar)

My favorite front door trend: layered doormats. I can’t get enough! Although my front door is not easy seen by drivers passing by… and we’re not getting many visitors due to the fact that we’re still in the middle of a global pandemic. At least me and the Amazon delivery person can find joy in them.

The concept of layered doormats is pretty easy. A Big door mat under a small one. The smaller one however having more of a design to it. A simple a fun way to decorate your front door this holiday season… even if its only for you, the delivery guy, and the internet…

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