2020 Plan With Me & Happy 7th Birthaversary MLW!

January 8, 2020January 8, 2020michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

Hey there friends! I’m baaaack! 😉

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It has been a minute!

But it’s a new year. A new decade. A decade of roaring twenties,

magical 2020 vision and a sparkling new opportunity for growth.

Happy New Year!

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Today also happens to also be MLW’s 7th Birth-a-versary! That’s a combination of Happy Birthday/Happy Anniversary if you were wondering. That’s right 7 years of creating content from the heart here on michelle leigh writes! It’s kind of a big deal for me, since it took me years just to warm up to the idea of someone reading my writing.
And yes there have been lost posts and months of inactivity. But like I always say, I always come back. In my heart I know I have so many stories to tell, poems to craft and party planning ideas to share. And I’m grateful for this space where I can be truly me and speak freely. It will always be my “Safe place for the written word.”

In honor of my 7th blog year, LUCKY #7!

I baked some white chocolate, sprinkle, cake cookies!

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So today, I thought I’d kick off this new post with a little 2020 planning for you. It’s in my bones to plan. I feel like every year I do the same thing. I plan and plan and then all plans get shot to hell when life flies into chaos. So I almost stopped myself from getting to much of the planning bug this year. But then I decided, maybe I can take a different approach this year. After all it is a new decade.

I rang the New Year in at my best friend’s house. Her and her husband hosted and it was a great time. We had champagne, wine and great food. We played this really fun game Telestrations After Dark. Warning: Not a kid friendly game. LOL. Then I spent New Year’s Day just being lazy in PJ’s, but being super productive in planning, straightening up my bedroom (which had become a mess because of the holidays,) and prepping for the work week. Thankfully, it was a short one to ease back into the swing of things! Because, we all know how hard it can be to get rid of that vacation brain. Your girl is still struggling! 😉

2020 PLANNING IDEAS!

Buy a new Planner, Calendar, and Notebook. A must for me. Every year. Shout out to my Aunt Linda who gets tons of free calendars every year, so she always gives me one! This year I got a really pretty floral inspirational quotes one.

I got some cool new pens for Christmas!

Make a list of 2019 highlights. Every year I think “what did I really do this year? Not much.” It’s easy to get down on yourself and feel bad if you didn’t go on some lavish vacation, or fall in love and get engaged, or buy that house, or get that dream job. But I guarantee if you look back on your social media (if you’re a social media posting person) then you will see that you created so many countless, beautiful memories. My list was so long, I couldn’t even share it here if I wanted to! LOL.

Make a list of things you learned in 2019. Every year is full of ups and downs. But in those moments, there is always something to learn. Personal growth is an amazing thing.

Make a list of 2020 goals (re-evaluate your 2019 goals and how much you accomplished.) Sometimes this can be a daunting task. If you’re like me, sometimes you feel like every year you have the same goals. So evaluating the past year’s goals can make you feel unaccomplished. But that’s why I also like to make a list of highlights so you can see how much you actually did accomplish! It’s all about perspective people! Although it can fly by, a year is a significant amount of time, and you can really do so much. You do so much. You just don’t realize it. And sometimes, the little things are the big things.

Check in on Work In Progress projects. So this is referring to my long list of projects I started this year and old projects that I haven’t finished over the past decade! So I just sort of took stock of their status and prioritized the few that I want to tackle this month.

Create an inspirational playlist of songs to set the mood for your 2020. I did this last year too, and it was super fun. I’ve been listening to mine and it’s full of fun vibes. I have some New Year’s songs on there, some slow jams, some old jams, some new jams, some 1920’s music. I’m actually still adding, every time I hear or think of a new song that resonates with my vibe this year.

Create a YouTube playlist of inspirational videos you want to watch. So I’m a big YouTube fan, and everyone is posting New Year content, which is really inspirational. So much so that it was getting overwhelming seeing the videos roll in. So I decided the best way to help myself was to create a playlist of all the videos I wanted to watch, and that way I can watch them at my leisure. Some of my favorite YouTubers include, Rachel Talbott, Kalyn Nicholson, Carrie Rad, Marisa Mohi, Kristen Martin, and Niki DeMar.

Start getting back to routine. Work, exercise, eating right, meditation, prayer. I find that when I have this kind of routine, I feel more centered, more focused, less anxious and more like myself.

Make a “Stress Away” basket full of things that you can pick from, to calm those stressful nerves. In mine I included, an adult coloring book, a stress ball, two small note pads and some pens, a gratitude journal, a FRIENDS quiz book, puzzles, t-shirt designing stuff (because yes I sometimes like to make my own t-shirts), a painting kit, and a word search book. I also plan to add a few more things as I go. You can really customize this to whichever you wish.

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Order some fun products online to add to your New Year vibe. I have been into trying to clear up my skin, and also find fun ways to exercise. So I recently ordered a humidifier, a facial cleansing brush, a lap desk for my lap top, writing gloves, a dry brush, a white head tool for acne, an exercise hula hoop, an energy lamp, and YouTuber Kalyn Nicolson’s poetry book Dancing with elephants.

Practice Gratitude. So I have a gratitude journal that I sometimes write in, where you write down 3 things you are grateful for that day. But lately I’ve just been saying Thank You to God at moments, in my prayers, out loud, to myself. Just a simple thank you. It’s peaceful and it feels good. Because even if your day sucks, there is something, even the smallest thing, that could make you feel grateful. Every day may not be good, but there is something good, in every day.

Do a tarot card reading for 2020, AND/OR Read your horoscope. I get that this isn’t for everyone. And I don’t buy into it as strong as some people do. But I do think it can be really fun. I have an Animal Spirit Deck and A Fairy Deck. Yes ya girl loves fairies. Have since I was a kid and saw a movie about fairies and then saw one flying around in my room in the middle of the night. #MAGIC. Inspired by Kalyn Nicholson’s 2020 reading, I decided to do my own, and man oh man was it eye opening. It gave my 2020 some seriously good vibes and a cool direction. I also looked up my Aries info for 2020.

This was my reading.

Reach out to family and friends and start to book plans in for the month or the next. If you’re like me, you have a ton of people you love and value in life. But when life gets so crazy, it can be sometimes really hard to make time for everything. So I decided to just start early and check in with all my various friend groups and start to make plans to hangout. Life is just more joyful when you have great friends to chill and talk with. Sometimes you just need a night with your girls! My calendar is already slowly filling up! I can’t wait to see everyone!

Go food shopping. I don’t know about you guys but after the hustle and bustle and traveling of the holidays, I had been eating like total crap, and my body was definitely feeling it. And so my mom and I took a trip to the supermarket and stocked up on healthier food options. My body is very happy now! 🙂

Balance your check book. (Maybe do this one before ordering a bunch of stuff on amazon!) 🙂

Give back and make the world just a little bit better. I recently donated to Givit for the wildfires happening in Australia. I’ve been seeing these devastating images all over social media. And I just wanted to do something. Even though it was small. It was something and every little bit counts. I also donated to the National Autism Association and I always donate to the Alzheimer’s Association during the walk which I did in 2019. Like I said it may not be much, but I give what I can afford and I hope and pray it helps.

Create a mood board or an inspiration board. This is where that 2019 Highlights list comes into play. You can look at that and see how much you’ve actually done over the last year and then pull a few things from it, and print out some pictures to symbolize those things. I personally just scroll through my instagram and see what I posted throughout the year or years. I chose a lot of inspirational quotes too, and pictures of family and friends, and then I also used pictures of myself in memories that instilled feelings in me that I want to recreate or feel again this year. Things I’ve done to step out of my comfort zone. Things I’m proud of. Things I want to work on. Things that were just fun. ALL THE INSPRING THINGS! I’m so used to putting pictures of OTHER people- mostly celebrities- on these boards, that when I look at them they don’t FEEL like me. So this year I thought, why not inspire MYSELF, by highlighting things I actually did in the past that I can try to implement again this year. Because we get in ruts, and we fear change and every New Year is a chance to fight that and try harder to accept change. After all there is peace in acceptance, if you look closely enough!

Write a list of important dates. For me this included writing a few subscription dates. I know I have some ending in the next few months so I want to be aware of that and be sure I renew them or cancel them. This can also be for any doctor appointments or adult things you need to do. Write them down!

Reflect on the past decade. This one might take some serious thinking!

Look up a list of New Year’s Eve movies. I just googled and found a list HERE. I guess I tend to live in theme. LOL. I have been craving a NYE film, I basically watched Sex and the City all New Year’s Eve. But I actually didn’t get my “New Year’s Eve” fill. I kind of love that movie!

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You may notice there’s a lot of writing involved. What can I say, I’m a writer. 😉 And a lover of a good list. Now you see what that notebook purchase was for! Make use of it! Keep in mind you obviously do not have to do all these steps in the first month. You do have a whole year. You don’t even have to do all these steps at all. This is just what I did. And it’s just helping me take stock and see what I wish to work on this year. I just feel extra motivated and I’m going to go with this soul flow. Good Vibes.

So there you have it. My tips and tricks to rock 2020. I know this is not a full proof method. And there will be hard times that deter me. But I feel inspired and I just thought I’d share this with you on this special day.

Thanks for reading! XO

Feels good to be back.

Happy 7th Birthaversary Michelle Leigh Writes!

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To celebrate I think I’m going to grab a glass of Champagne Rose,

a few White Chocolate Chip cake cookies, and pop on one of those New Year’s movies! 😉

Update: I watched Freeform’s new version of Party of Five and Chicago PD instead. 🙂

*All images are my own.*

-<3-

The One Where Monica & Rachel Go To The Movies- Friends in theaters!

October 5, 2019October 21, 2019michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

Not only did I attend the Friends Pop Up, in honor of the show’s 25th Anniversary, but Regal theaters took part in screening 4 episodes of Friends a night last weekend. I heard about this and thought, that would be so cool to watch FRIENDS in a theater. So I bought tickets for me and my sister in law.

I also roped her into dressing like one of the characters. To other people we just looked like we were wearing normal clothes but to us, well, we were Monica and Rachel of course!

So as I was waiting for my sister in law, I kind of had a little photo booth prop-selfie session. My sister in law had gotten me these photo props a little bit ago from Primark (I believe) and I thought it would be fun to pull them out. I also was even more of a geek and created a “Central Perk Cold Brew” label for our coffees, since it was so hot out that day. 😉

The 4 episodes that they were screening on the night we went were:

The One With The Prom Video

The One Where No One’s Ready

The One With The Morning After

The One With The Embryos

This day was a good choice, because these are some of my favorite episodes.

We got our pop corn and our massive sodas and sat back and laughed with like minded, friends lovin’ souls who quoted the show and clapped along to the intro. I would love to watch FRIENDS like that everyday!

The Outfits

My sister in law channeled this Rachel Green Outfit.

I channeled this Monica Look…

Becoming Monica Geller

What You Need For This Look:

White button down shirt

Dark Wash Jeans (high waisted would have worked better)

Black belt

Black shoes with white laces (I chose black and white sneakers)

Silver dangly earrings (chose the bigger pair)

Silver watch (I didn’t have a watch, so I chose the skinnier silver bracelet)

2 Silver Rings

1 Turquoise Ring (I chose the smaller one)

Black Choker

Red lipstick

Hair parted on the side

Slightly flipped at the bottom hair (I just used a straightener to flip out the bottom ends)

Aside from the red lipstick, I kept my makeup pretty natural on my eyes. As I was researching the fashion of the three girls, I realized Monica was the one I had most in common with. She is laid back and comfortable. At times she’ll throw on a skirt or dress, but she usually keeps it casual. She often rocked red lips, sneakers, button ups, high waited jeans and silver jewelry. Watches and turquoise were super in too!

It was super fun to dress like one of the girls, and to watch friends on the big screen. My sister in law and I had a good time. And I can’t wait to celebrate more FRIENDS anniversaries in the future.

Cheers, Friends!

Happy 25th!

*All photos are my own.*

-<3-

Men’s Bouquet Gift Idea

September 19, 2019September 16, 2019michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

Every year when it comes to father’s day or birthday gifts for my dad or brother, I’m always stumped. Shopping for men, can be hard. Because what do you get them???

So this year, I thought I would do a male version of a bouquet for my brother’s father’s day gift. Not that a woman can’t get a man flowers, but let’s be real, this idea is a bit more male practical.

Please ignore the messy background!

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I basically just got a few gift cards (amazon, burger king, and x-box), some scratch offs, candy I know he likes, and some fun little magic tricks (he’s into learning magic tricks). I taped each item onto a wooden skewer stick and then taped it to a liter bottle of Pepsi, and then underneath that added a small can of Pringles. (I used ALOT of tape!) Again these are snacks and things I know my brother likes, so you can obviously customize these to each guy. I then wrapped it all in saran wrap, so that the pointy bottoms of the sticks wouldn’t poke anyone. To make it look more like a man bouquet I added some greenery and wrapped the bottom with gold tissue paper, adding some super hero stickers and ninja turtle stars. Yes, superheroes and ninja turtles, and magic tricks, cuz my brother’s a big kid! LOL.

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He seemed to like it! I thought this was a unique, fun idea and you can be really creative about what you include. So if you are stuck on what to get the men in your life, try a man’s bouquet!

*All images are my own.*

-<3-

Girl’s Spa Gift Basket Idea

September 17, 2019September 16, 2019michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

Every year I try to think of a unique gift idea for my god daughter’s birthday. She is such a special little soul, and I love her so much- so naturally the gift must fit. 🙂

One time when we had her for a sleepover, I set up my house like a spa. And ever since, she wants to always play spa! LOL. So I thought it was only fitting I make her, her very own spa basket.

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In this basket I included:

A cute homemade little sign with her name

A nail polish set

A silk spa robe

A pair of flip flops

A spa headband

A hair wrap towel

A lip gloss set

Body spray

Lotion

Water spray bottle

Rags

Gem stone set

Color changing candles (battery operated obviously)

A recipe for cucumber water

Paper cups, napkins & funky straws and a decanter for cucumber water

And everything kind of ended up in this pastel color theme, which I thought was super cute!

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I bought everything in various stores as I was shopping around, however, I did get the robe, the gemstones and the candle set on amazon, and the body spray/lotion from bath and body works.

My god daughter ended up liking it, so I was very happy. I love giving gifts that have a theme to it, and I love making gift baskets!

So if you are in need of a gift idea for a young girl, try a spa basket! Let’s promote young girls learning self care early on. Because we all know life is stressful and being able to take time to yourself is important.

*All images are my own.*

-<3-

TV I fell in love with this Summer

September 11, 2019September 12, 2019michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

TELEVISION

!!!!! SPOILERS AHEAD !!!!!

Jane The Virgin [Premiered it’s 5th and Last Season]

CRAZY SHOUT OUT TO THIS QUEEN for this INSANE 7 minute monologue done in one continuous shot! Gina Rodriguez is EPIC! Please give her all the awards. I remember watching this and just being in complete awe of her. Her acting was complete and total brilliance. Read about the process of shooting this scene HERE

I’m a total TV nerd, who loves to plan and who loves a good theme. I do this often. Here’s my Jane the Virgin finale setup. Yes, I do this just for me. And I freaking LOVE IT!

Allow me to explain.

My set up includes:
A flower (Jane’s grandma’s virginity metaphor) Haha.
White petals to symbolize her moments with Rafael.
Snowballs to symbolize the title of Jane’s first novel- Snow Falling and her life with Michael.
A cross necklace to symbolize the strong faith this show has and it’s also a necklace I think Jane has worn in earlier seasons.
A soap opera digest as a ode to the show’s telenovela nature.
A lavender drink and tablecloth because it’s Rogelio’s favorite color.
And lastly the meal that just screams Villanueva- a grilled cheese sandwich.
Oh and I made a ratchet t-shirt of course with my favorite quote. Because duh?
The finale episode made me laugh, made me cry, made me gasp. But mostly it made me realize how much I’m going to miss this show. Excellent, television. A true game changer. Thank you. Can’t wait for the spinoff!

Always knew these two were endgame.

My girl, Sophia Bush even guest starred this season! 😀

Jane The Virgin -- "Chapter Ninety-Three" -- Image Number: JAV512b_0188.jpg -- Pictured: Sophia Bush as Julie -- Photo: Kevin Estrada/The CW -- © 2019 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Grand Hotel

This show premiered this Summer and honestly it had me hooked. It’s mysterious, and romantic and full of drama. I hope it gets a season 2, because I just watched the finale and it was bringing the plot twists left and right! Also I think there are many familiar faces involved.

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P.S. did I mention the ROMANCE!

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The Bachelorette (Hannah B’s Season) / Bachelor in Paradise

Why am I so invested in these cheap, reality shows! I am so convinced it is heavily scripted, but I can’t take my eyes away. It’s like a cringeworthy car crash. I have not watched The Bachelor franchise in years. I think I may have watched the first season of The Bachelorette and that is all. But I kept seeing all this drama surrounding Hannah B.’s season and I just got curious and binge-watched it on demand, getting all caught up before home town visits. PETER WAS MY FAVORITE! And as for Hannah, I did like her, but sometimes I found myself screaming at her on my tv too. She definitely had her badass, female empowerment moments too though. So you do you Hannah Boo. Girl is going to be on this Season’s Dancing with the Stars. Like…what? Crazy! She’s everywhere!

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Hannah had such a great group of guys, aside from the Luke P. drama. I loved so many of them- Peter, Tyler, Garrett, Dylan, Mike, Connor and Luke S. Honestly I want them to all to get their own show- Bachelor Bros. They are all like really good friends. I follow them all on instagram and they are always joking and commenting back and forth with each other. By the way… I did like Jed, but if you watched, you know the drama that went DOWN!

: PILOT PETE!!!!!! #Windmill #JesusStillLovesMe

TYLER was another one of my favorites. THAT MAN’s TELL ALL SHOW THO!!! Girl just threw her hat in the ring there. #DRAMADRAMGIGIHADIDDRAMA

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GARRETT was another fav! He is so cute on instagram! I just love him!

I had a little party for the finale. I was so nervous while watching. I wanted her to pick Peter SOOOO bad, but if you watched you know she didn’t. So fingers crossed that he is the next bachelor! #SIGNMEUP #IDGIVEHIMALLTHEROSES

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And then after that ended Bachelor in Paradise started up…and I didn’t even know this was a thing. Various past contestants get to come back and get another shot at finding love as they stay on a beach in Mexico. So I was like what the hell? Why not. Some of the guys from Hannah’s season were on so I was like woohoo, #SummerTV. Connor, Dylan, Mike, Luke S. were on and some others too. And it is so dramatic and I feel so frustrated watching it, but I can’t help it. It’s entertaining as hell. LOL. My fav couples are Katie & Chris and Clay and Nicole. I just hope they end up together. I also really loved Derek who was from a different season but he is no longer on. The finale is next week and then we get a reunion show, SO HEYYYY!!!! And the next Bachelor is announced. What do we think guys, do those ankles from that new promo look like Peter’s? I sure hope so!

BACHELOR IN PARADISE – “Episode 601” (ABC/John Fleenor) JOHN PAUL JONES, CAELYNN MILLER-KEYES, KEVIN FORTENBERRY, BIBIANA JULIAN, CHRIS BUKOWSKI, KATIE MORTON, WILLS REID, ONYEKA EHIE, DEMI BURNETT, BLAKE HORSTMANN, ANNALIESE PUCCINI, CAM AYALA, SYDNEY LOTUACO, TAYSHIA ADAMS, CLAY HARBOR, NICOLE LOPEZ-ALVAR, DYLAN BARBOUR, JANE AVERBUKH, DEREK PETH, HANNAH GODWIN

Dylan – Bachelor in Paradise Credit ABC

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BH 90210

When I heard about this reboot, I WAS ESTATIC. When I heard about the concept, not so much. I was nervous, and skeptical. I wanted to love it, but I was scared I wouldn’t. But…it is actually SO DAMN GOOD. This take on the reboot trend is fresh and inventive. I’m so sad it’s only 6 episodes. The season finale is tonight! I hope they bring it back for season 2! It’s so funny, nostalgic and oddly mysterious. It makes my heart happy to see the crew back together. Although I must say…Luke Perry will always be missed.

90210 new Screenshot_20190808-114139_Instagram I may have been a bit young to watch 90210 from the start. But I remember being obsessed with the reruns so much I ran out and bought the first season on DVD. From 90210 where this dream boat waltzed in as Dylan McKay and made girls everywhere swoon. I was unable to decide if I liked him more with Brenda or with Kelly because he made both relationships look so good. To the original Buffy the Vampire Slayer movie where he was once again the adorable love interest. To when he guest starred on old pal “Kelly’s” “What I Like About You” show. To his most recent role as Fred Andrew’s on CWs hit Riverdale. I’ve followed his career and have always loved him. My heart is broken to know he is gone. 💔 I still can’t believe it. Rest in Peace Luke Perry. You’ll always be a legend. #DylanMckay

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I had a little fun premiere party with my sister in law, so I thought why not honor the peach pit, by bringing in some peach vibes…I also rocked this 90210 shirt I made from an old shirt that didn’t fit anymore. I cut out the logo and sewed it to a white tee, that I cropped and made tie.

Pearson [Premiered it’s 1st season on USA]

You know why I’m watching this….my girl Bethany Joy Lenz plays Keri Allen!

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I was never a “SUITS” viewer, but I know this is a spin-off based on Jessica Pearson from the show. It is a bit hard to get fully invested in at times, because I honestly just want to see Joy on my screen at all times. LOL. But she does play a vital role. She plays city attorney and left hand woman to Chicago’s mayor Bobby Novak…whom she is having an on going affair with. It’s steamy and sexy and SAD…because there are so many complications and so many times you just want to scream at Keri for being THAT GIRL. But tv is NEVER just right or wrong, Pearson explores the Gray. The Gray in Law, in Politics, and in Love. I AM HERE FOR IT! The finale is next week. So I’m excited, I hope it gets a season 2! Because I really like seeing both Jessica Pearson and Keri Allen be kickass, powerful women BOSSES.

Keri & Bobby THO!!!! #SWOON

Had a little Pearson Premiere Party because I’m a tv geek and I love Joy. So my best friend and I got together to watch.

Younger [Premiered it’s 6th Season]

I fell in love with this show, when it first premiered. And I mean Hilary Duff…duh?

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The finale just aired and this season was full of crazy twists and turns and lots of laughs. But of course in the land of Charles & Liza vs. Liza & Josh. I am all about #TEAMJOSH. Season 7 COMING SOON!

Stranger Things [Premiered it’s 3rd Season on Netflix]

It’s been a minute since Season 2! I’m a little sad that this season is only 8 episodes. I am currently up to 6. And I have to say it’s not my favorite season. But there has definitely been some really good stuff so far. So I’m excited to see all that goes down in the upside down and the real world parallels.

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I went to Coney Island this Summer and it was all decked out in promotion for the show. AND Baskin Robbins released special ice cream flavors for the show too! Eleven’s Heaven (White), Upside Down Pralines (Chocolate). They were amazing! Especially the Eleven’s Heaven, it had waffle cone pieces in it. #HEAVEN

In The Dark [This wasn’t exactly a summer show, but I have yet to talk about it on this blog, so I just wanted to give it a shout out, because it is so good.] A really unique storyline that follows a blind girl who becomes obsessed with the death of a close friend, and takes it upon herself to get him some justice. She is a real fire cracker who hands out insults often, loves smoking and generally hates life. But somehow, you just end up falling in love with her clever angsty wit. I was happy to hear it was picked up for a second season!

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Plus…there’s this guy…what a dreamboat. Casey Deidrick who played Chad on Days of Our Lives and Tommy in an MTV show “Eye Candy” that got cancelled, when it shouldn’t have.

In The Dark — “The Big Break” — Image Number: ITD103b_0301.jpg — Pictured (L-R): Casey Diedrick as Max and Perry Mattfeld as Murphy — Photo: Ben Mark Holzberg/The CW — Ã?Â© 2019 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

In The Dark — “The Big Break” — Image Number: ITD103b_0094.jpg — Pictured (L-R): Casey Diedrick as Max and Perry Mattfeld as Murphy — Photo: Ben Mark Holzberg/The CW — ÃÂ© 2019 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Ben Mark Holzberg benmark.ca

Scream (Season 3, not sure when this premiered on tv…I just saw it pop up on Netflix and got super excited.)

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Seasons 1 &2 were pretty good, I used to love the original slasher films as a kid. I thought they were mysterious and scary. That and I Know What You Did Last Summer were slasher jams growing up in the 90’s/00’s. So I was hyped to see they FINALLY released a Season 3 after all the confusion and cast changes. The plot twist was nice! I was happy that they played with the audience, I was all over the place as to who the killer was. It was only 6 episodes, so I finished it in like 2 days. But with Halloween coming up, it’s perfect to get into the spooky spirit.

Here’s the trailer if your interested.

So there you have it, my Summer TV recap. Check ’em out!

And tell me what you watched this Summer!

*The only photos that I take credit for are the “Premiere Party” photos.*

-<3-

Back To School Haul + Classroom Basket Idea!

September 9, 2019September 9, 2019michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

I know in most places school started back up last week. But for me, it starts back up today! I teach various creative activities and I usually like to go and buy a few new supplies for the start of the year.

We’ve got some Memo pads- I love to use the big yellow ones. Some post-its, tape, markers, sharpeners, pens, (I had pencils so I didn’t need to buy), folders for each activity, index cards-because I use them for everything, loose leaf, hand sanitizers, and some new ear phones. [I purchased all of this at 5 Below and various dollar stores]

I also bought this new book bag tote. I was in need of a new one, since my last one took me through many years. It was certainly well loved! [I purchased this one at TJ Maxx]

Classroom-Learning-Basket Idea

There is a point in my work day where the students have home work time. And so often I hear many excuses they come up with so they don’t have to do their work. They end up on their phones or on the computers. Which is not something we want! So I came up with this basket idea, so that when they tell me they have nothing to do, I can say…

“Go to the basket!” 😉

I bought educational puzzles, games, word games, coloring books, drawing supplies (I included some paper, pencils, & crayons), playing cards, and brainteasers. I purchased all of this in Dollar Tree!

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I hope this works well!

Winding down before starting the new Fall year…

I have been dying to watch The Lizzie McGuire movie ever since hearing about the reboot. So last night, I finally did, as I ate my dinner. And it was a damn good time! We know I’m a tv geek! I felt like a pre-teen singing along to the epic soundtrack, and gushing over Lizzie & Gordo’s being adorable. AND THE FASHION, OMG so DANG GOOD!

LMGM

I also picked up this sweet little pie and had it with some tea for my dessert, because I just thought it fit my end of Summer vibes.

dessert vibes

Best of luck to all the teachers and students out there!

We got this!

Have an amazing year!!!

*All images are my own.*

-<3-

Summer 2019 Vibes!!!

September 8, 2019michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

I know I haven’t posted much this summer… I guess I’ve just been busy…

LIVIN MY BEST LIFE! 😉

As this Summer officially comes to an end for me, (I start work back up tomorrow!) it has dawned on me that this Summer has been pretty great. Which is not always the case for me. No, I wasn’t able to go on some luxurious vacation, but I was able to have some really fun times with great family, friends, food, and lots of wine! 😉 I got to do more than I usually get to, because this summer I decided to take off of work. Granted, my job is different then most, I can either apply to work the summer or not, it’s my choice. Normally I work every Summer, but something made me decline this Summer. And I’m glad I did. My credit card isn’t happy, but I think it was the right move for me personally.

No my Summer wasn’t perfect, it actually started off really difficult for me and my family. And I have had many emotional moments and hard times, but when I look at all the good. Somehow, that wins. Good always wins. And so, I thought before I jump back into my usual work routine, I should just take a second and reflect of the Summer memories I was blessed with.

JUNE, JULY, & AUGUST 2019

My Summer started with my usual tradition of taking my mom to see a broadway show. I get her tickets for her Mother’s Day gift and then we usually see the show in June. This year we saw Waitress, and it was ABSOLUTELY amazing. [Fun Fact: I actually just watched the movie and it was good, but I LOVED the play even more!)]

4th of July we celebrated with some family and it was really sweltering hot, but it was a really great time. As an anxious person, heat really tends to effect me. But I’ve really learned to manage my anxiety in the Summer better. The 4th was really fun! Especially since my cousin and his family were in from Florida. It was really nice to be able to spend a holiday with them, it’s been a minute! I also found this super simple COOKIE RECIPE, and they were a hit! I think I made them, like 3 times for 3 separate occasions this summer, I just switch up the sprinkles depending on the occasion. A kid favorite for sure! *You could totally make these for Fall, Halloween, Christmas, Easter, etc. I would even like to try it with chocolate cake mix. BTW if you look closely, you may spy that I wore a Britney Spears t-shirt…it was the only red, white, & blue I had. And like I was cool with it! 😉 #ITSBRITNEYBITCH Guess you can tell, I’m kind of a graphic tee fan…more to come on that later on!

A Stranger Things themed Coney Island! So if you are a fan of the sci fi/mystery Netflix show, you would know that this Summer Season 3 was released. [I’M ONLY UP TO EPISODE 6…SHHHHH!!!!] Coney Island was transformed into a Stranger Things theme park in the show’s 80’s fashion. It consisted of just posters hung around of the logo and the characters, the theme song was placing on the speakers, and the staff had on custom tees. Nothing crazy, I was kind of disappointed. BUT I went with my mom, aunt and my aunt surprised us by bringing my goddaughter, so we got to go on some rides, play games, and eat some food court summer food.

Local Baseball Game for my Cousin’s husband’s 40th birthday! I’m not a super fan of baseball, but we had a box room, and there was catered food, and the weather was great. The kids even got to run the bases after the game.

I got to catch up with my coworkers…and eat this load of calories! 😛

NIA fam

Atlantic City Overnighter with my fav ladies, my mom and my aunt! We stopped in the small town Smithville on the way. Gambling isn’t my fav, because I HATE losing money. But there were a few fun games I liked, like CRAZY MONEY! BUT I got some sweet Gilmore Girls/Stars Hollow vibes from the small, quaint town, and picked up some goodies.

[INSERT MINI SMITHVILLE HAUL-SLIDESHOW BELOW]

Two small jars of honey, peanut butter, a candle, a jar of jam, worry dolls, a tie dye t-shirt [this was from one of the boardwalk shops in AC], and a wine opener in the shape of a wine bottle with my name on it and a cute saying-my Aunt bought me as a gift!

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TOY STORY 4! THE LION KING! ALADDIN! #RELIVEDMYCHILDHOOD Thank you!

So I never had a super strong connection to The Lion King or Aladdin as a kid. I was never a super big Disney kid, I had my favorites but they weren’t it. But I really had to see the new live action films. Because, duh? However, Toy Story was a thing! My brother and I were a fan of the films growing up.

I really enjoyed all three films.

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[INSERT MINI MOVIE REVIEWS!]

The Lion King was a little bittersweet because I felt like Nala being played by Beyoncé kept taking me out of the story, because I was just thinking ok you’re Beyoncé. And I just felt annoyed by it. And I just felt like the real animals (although Timon and Pumbaa were HYSTERICAL) were just weird to watch in this sing along world. I felt like the color in the animation helped with suspending reality and enjoying the world. But I did enjoy it for the most part, the original is better, in my opinion. The music was better in the original too.

My friend and I in the theater with our cherry cokes and our granny glasses.

Aladdin was amazing! I loved the romance between Aladdin and Jasmine. You know me, if there’s a love story, I AM IN IT! I thought Jasmine’s vocals were INSANE. And Will Smith as the genie….I mean he cracked me up the whole damn time. The music was beautiful…And I watched a crappy boot leg copy because by the time, I got around to watching it, it wasn’t playing in theaters near me. But I really loved it, and if I watched it in a clear, crisp copy, I’d probably love it even more.

Toy Story 4 was EPIC! It was everything-emotional, funny, nostalgic, scary….like those dummy dolls were legit! It was amazing and I actually didn’t think the ending was as sad as everyone made it. I think it actually left room for other films.

Had to see Toy Story 4 with my big bro, cuz… childhood. #Nostalgia Peep the shirts! #PIZZAPLANET

Pool/Beach Vibes

So I actually got to go to the beach TWICE this Summer, which is kind of a big deal for me. There have been some Summers I wouldn’t get to go at all! I went once with my mom to a local beach, then I went to Ocean City with some family, and stayed with them in a rented house for a few days. I also got to have some fun pool days, one with my best friend at her house and one with some family, my cousin has a pool membership. I kid you not it was very Stranger Things-80’s pool vibes. Super fun!

[INSERT MINI OCEAN CITY HAUL]

We were only there for 5 days, but we did so much! The beach, the amusement park, the water park, the arcade, BBQ nights in, shopping strips, dinner night outs, we played cards and other games, mini golf AND survived the crazy heat wave too! 😉

Clearly you see I was vibing with the Tie Dye trend! I’ve always liked it, but now I actually own it! I bought two t-shirts, an ankle bracelet, a cross necklace, a candle, and Spice Girls wine glass charms. I mean I just thought they were hysterically awesome!

I bought my family tickets to see Ain’t Too Proud! It was my dad’s father’s day gift this year! And the talent was incredible! I honestly was so amazed by their vocals. I grew up with the music of The Temptations playing in my house. I’m definitely a MOTOWN influenced kid. I love their music, songs like My Girl and Just My Imagination were some of my favs! The show was so amazing, I felt like I was seeing them live in concert.

Descendants 3 Premiere with my God Daughter!

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My cousin threw a party for her daughter & her friends, and so I made some fun treats for the girlies. Besides, I was kind of excited for the 3rd film too! I was a bit obsessed with Evie’s blue and red vibes from the second film. The second is my favorite, but I enjoyed the new film too!

Descendants premiere party

I love planning themed parties, and believe me I have a few TV related mini parties I had throughout this summer, but I’m going to do a whole separate post on my Summer TV and Music Favs! So STAY TUNED!

Fun with Fashion!!!

I got to play around a little more with fashion this summer. More than I usually do, because I didn’t have to dress a certain way for work. Also, I became a huge fan of hats and tassel earrings. Also the two white t-shirts with the logos on them are both shirts made by my brother. The “she writes her own story” tee was a custom made for me, but the “You’re Making Me Blush” tee is available on his etsy shop! He has some great designs up, please take a look and follow him on instagram @mytshirtaddiction

I told you I love graphic tees, I guess it runs in the family! 😉

I just got a fresh new cut and color because my hair was kind of looking rough from dying it purple in April. I basically had Mermaid hair all Summer. Which was like cool, but I was growing sick of it and I needed a darker vibe for Fall! I’ve had Pink, Blue, and Purple hair over the years and I still have yet to show any of that on this blog! One of these days, I’m going to do a whole Hair Chronicles! LOL.

Had My God Daughter over for a sleepover- and we did everything under the sun from making tie dye tees to baking a cake for my brother’s birthday to making our own chipwiches- I also created a scavenger hunt for her! We also had my brother and his family stay over unexpectedly one night, and it was my niece’s first sleepover at our house. So I had to scramble and make it festive for her and get her some goodies. We decorate every time we have my god daughter for sleepovers so we had to do the same for my niece too! I also babysat my niece by myself for the first time! (It’s not like I can’t… I just never have until this summer, I can be a nervous Nancy when it comes to watching kids all by myself. LOL) Great times with my two favorite little girlies!!!!

Music & TV Vibes!

So I do want to share with you all the shows and music I fell in love with this Summer in a separate post, but I just wanted to highlight a few things! I saw Shawn Mendes in concert with my friend and needless to say it was kind of an anxious experience. I will get more into it in a separate post. But let’s just say I will never sit in Barclay’s upper seating again. It’s quite terrifying! Shawn however, was AMAZING! And it ended up being a fun night. Taylor Swift dropped her new album #Lover as you may have guessed from my last few posts, I’m KIND OF a fan! It’s EPIC and I love it! So there has been lots of fun Taylor Swift memories this Summer. As for tv, there were so many shows I saw premiere, shows end and all the feels in between. But the two that I hold so dear to my heart has to be the new 90210 reboot- BH 90210. SO GOOD! And the announcement of the Lizzie McGuire reboot! I AM DYING!!!! SO SO PUMPED for that! I’m already planning my premiere party in my head guys! Nostalgia is a dish best served nice and toasty. Childhood memories….feels like home.

Family Day at the Aquarium! We got caught in torrential down pour, but it was still a good time!

Speaking of rain, I think I got caught in crazy down pours and thundering and lightning like 4-5 times this summer. I’ve been soaked from head to toe on multiple occasions. One time my umbrella wouldn’t even open! Some days I could laugh it off and some I just wanted to stop and cry! But looking back at this summer I can just say Thank You! Thank You 2019 for getting me through some really hard emotional blocks, and testing me and proving to me that I can handle so much more than I give myself credit for. Anxiety does not define me. And just because I feel the weight of the world one day or even a week doesn’t mean that it’s forever. That my funky moods, don’t have to be my all day moods! I’m so hoping to bring that knowledge with me into this new Fall Season…MY FAVORITE SEASON! Such a basic bi*ch, I know! #FIGHTME. 😉 BRING ON THE PUMPKIN EVERYTHANG, the flannel, the leather, the cool air, the crisp leaves and the HOLIDAYS! I feel so blessed to have had the Summer I did. And blessed to start this new fall year, that is already filling up with some exciting things!

Time to focus on the positive.

How was your Summer?

*All images are my own, except the movie posters, the Taylor Swift image I stole from my bestie, and the Lizzie McGuire pic I reposted from Hilary’s instagram.* 😉

-<3-

Lover Deluxe Album Unboxing & Mini Taylor Swift VMA Party

August 30, 2019michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

Back with another Taylor Swift post, as promised this is my Taylor Swift Lover Unboxing. In crappy cell phone pics! 😉 Enjoy!

To read my initial reaction to the album with my first listen…CLICK HERE!

First Listen

Picking it up at TARGET…

UNBOXING…

I basically didn’t want 4 copies of the album so my friends and I all bought different versions. I chose Version 3, because I watched an unboxing video on YouTube and saw Version 3 was the Blue one and her poster has her holding a sunflower and basically blue and sunflowers are my favs. I thought it was a universal sign. So there’s my logic for why I chose Version 3. Haha.

The Deluxe Target Version comes with 30 pages from Taylor’s Diaries some including fun personal pics, lyrics, and fun doodles. The 18 Track Lover Album, A Lyric book, a poster, and a bunch of blank pages for you to write your own entries. My version also included her diary entry from the night Kanye West interrupted her acceptance speech at the VMAs. #SpillThatTeaGirl 🙂

Here’s a sneak peek into her diary pages for Version 3. Of course she mentions JT in mine. Like I knew there was a cosmic reason why I bought this one. Also she discusses writing her hit track “22” from the RED album. The RED album is when I fell in love with her music. And 22 came out when I was 22, I was just graduating college and I had a big Graduation party with all my family and friends and when that song came on we were all screaming “I DONT KNOW ABOUT YOU, BUT I’M FEELING 22!” Some were still 21 though. HAHA

2019 VMA’s VIEWING PARTY SETUP…

Cuz, I’m a total geek, I felt like doing a little Taylor inspired set up in honor of her opening the show. So this is kind of what I had lying around and I think it came together.

vmas viewing party

Set-up Included:

The Lover Album… of course.

A Heart decorated wine class, (I just had a glass of red wine with some frozen fruit and seltzer, so I made like a little sangria spritzer.)

Pastel rose petals and butterflies, because…Taylor Swift.

And the dessert is actually from Little Debbie’s limited edition line. Mermaid Vibes fit that Taylor Vibe too.

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Catch Taylor’s Performance Below!

IT’s NICE TO HAVE A FRIEND! (to have a girls night/listening party with!)

So the day after the VMA’s I had planned to meet up with some friends to swap diaries and have a little Taylor Swift listening party. We grabbed lunch and some coffee and then unexpectedly ended up at my friend’s house and drank wine, had dinner and listened to Taylor’s many albums on repeat. A fun girls day that turned into night… it was one for the books. Love you ladies! I encourage everyone to just listen to the album with a friend, it’s that much more fun!

Listening Party

I also caved and bought the $60 t-shirt I’ve been eyeing. The Taylor Swift x Stella McCartney designs were only released in spurts over a small time period and once the day was over the designs were no longer available and new ones were available. So I was sure I lost my chance at my favorite one. But Yesterday the whole collection was brought back for the day and I just had to get it. It was haunting me! No my credit card is NOT happy. But I am! 😉 Taylor’s Merch shop still has her merch available, just not the Stella McCartney line. Visit the shop HERE!

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So there’s my recent Taylor Fangirl News!

I really hope she tours for this record. I feel so connected to this album and I just think it’s such a fun vibe for her and I can only imagine what the sets could look like on tour. The pastel colors! I can’t wait to see what’s next for her.

*All images/unboxing video are my own, except the VMA performance/T-shirt images/Songs used.*

-<3-

Ladies Lounge Party Planning

May 27, 2019May 27, 2019michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

I celebrated my birthday in March (Fashion Stylings coming soon!) I went to dinner with a few close friends and then had them come back to the “Ladies Lounge” for dessert. I love to create my own vibes. And I think lounges are super cool and laid back and just the perfect place to hang out, chat with your girls and have a few snacks and drinks.

The Entry Way

The entry way is the first impression guests see. For the Ladies Lounge I chose to set the scene with an information board filled with inspirational and informative flyers about “local” events. A bowl of candies, candles, signs, and a disco ball. I also included a bathroom sign on the door. 😉

The Bathroom

Every time I have gone out to a nice place, the bathrooms always have cute little decor pieces or inspirational quotes on the wall. This one pictured here, is one of my favs. I also laid out some festive guest napkins by the sink.

The Coffee/Tea Station

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Of course I didn’t actually make my guests pay for their drinks and desserts! Lol. It was just for show.

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The Happy Hour Bar Station

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In honor of my fav girl from FRIENDS, this is a Racheltini…(basically just pink lemonade with a cherry on a fancy pearled toothpick lol)

The Dessert/Snacks (we went out to dinner before hand, so I kept it simple with a few sweet and savory snacks)

I added a lace tablecloth, a color changing candle, and a mason chair filled with fresh flowers. I also set the treats on some fancier dishes.

Setting the vibe/Lounge area

I had my crystal salt rock lamp on, and my essential oil diffuser on as well. I like to use a blend of Lavender & Eucalyptus

I replaced the lamp on the left’s bulb with a yellow bulb to create a fun lighting vibe. Added a throw and some extra pillows to the couch for a cozier look. Some Lanterns and décor fans to add some lounge feels.

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I put on the spa music channel to set the vibe along with more candles a lantern and some drapery. I used my fuzzy chair with another throw to the mix for extra comfy seating.

I transformed my living room desk into a little coffee table. I placed two LARGE coffee cups on the funky table cloth. Just like the ones on the show. I also added a small vase of flowers and a real candle. For a few more FRIENDS related Easter eggs I added a fake version of “Be Your Own Wind Keeper” and a Trivia book.

I added another lantern above, a few balloons around, another chair with a drapery and extra pillow, and strung some sunflower lights by my windows, which I closed to keep the light vibe low.

Movie Vibes

Ladies Lounge Viewing Board Announcement. ^

Every screening needs its snacks! 😉

FRIENDS chillin at the Ladies Lounge!

Are you looking for a fun place to hang with your friends, but you can’t find one in your local area, CREATE YOUR OWN!

*ALL IMAGES ARE MY OWN!*

-<3-

Bake with Me: St. Patrick’s Day Edition

March 21, 2019April 1, 2019michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

This past weekend, we celebrated St. Patrick’s Day at my Aunt’s house. So I decided to bake a bunch of yummy green inspired treats. Baking for every holiday is kind of my thing. I love finding fun recipes, buying all the ingredients, baking, and then creating festive trays for the occasion.

FIRST UP- Slutty Brownies (Click for recipe)

I called them Sassy Mint Brownies instead, lol! #KIDEARS

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To display them, I put them on a green tray lined with white doilies. Then I added some butterscotch candies (gold coins) and the Andes mint chocolates (green theme candy). I also added a few shamrock toothpicks.

NEXT UP- Green Cupcakes

I didn’t really have a recipe for this. I just saw this picture online and drew inspiration from the image itself.

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Not my photo

Here is my version, and what I used to create it…

I used Betty Crocker white boxed mix and Betty Crocker Cream Cheese frosting. I added a crazy amount of green food coloring to the batter to get that vibrant green color. I frosted them using a little pastry icing tool, added some green sugar sprinkles and topped it with either a green cherry (which I was super surprised to find!) or a butterscotch candy which I used to mirror a gold coin, (I couldn’t find any gold chocolate coins).

LAST UP- Lucky Charm Treats (Click for recipe)

I just added some green food coloring to make them even more festive!

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To display these, I placed them on a white oval tray lined with doilies, and added some spear mint gumdrop candy to add some décor to it.

Here’s my little set up…(dinner cooked by both my Mom and my Aunt…mom made Sheppard’s pie too, but I didn’t get a pic.)

I threw together a bottle of sangria and some green fruit (pear, grapes, apple). Apple wine on the side in case someone just wanted a glass of wine, or wanted to add more into the sangria. And some festive napkins, plates, and straws. A drink is so much better with a little umbrella or a cute straw! It was so good, I had quite a few glasses and was feeling a nice buzz. #YesImOfAge

And you know I had to dress for the occasion with some fun festive accessories, and that morning I had some tea in my holiday themed mug…

The day was really fun, and everything was really delicious! However, I will say for the mint brownies, if you aren’t a fan of mint, than you may not like them. I like mint, so I LOVED them! I love celebrating my heritage and getting to do so with great food, and good company. They had an early birthday cake for me too, and I even got some early birthday gifts. It was a really sweet surprise and a great time!

Happy “Belated” St. Patrick’s Day!

*All photos are my own.*

-<3-