A Cozy Happy Life

Finding Happiness in the Coziest of Places

March Reading Wrap Up

| Books

 

I hit my goal of reading six books for March! Woo! I do need to hit seven to eight one of these months in order to make up for slacking a bit in January and February but I’ll allow myself to be proud today! Overall I enjoyed my reading experiences this month! I didn’t have any duds which is why I think I was so motivated to keep reading. I found a new series that I love, so that’s exciting! However, because of this I had to make myself read other things rather than and entire series in a month but I’m glad I did because I found some wonderful books. So here is my March reading wrap up!

 

My Lady Jane by Cynthia Hand

This was my second fantasy read of the year and I loved it. I think the shift between humans and animals reached to my love of animals. And finding multiple love stories throughout the novel tugged at my love for love. This was a great book for me all around. I was wrapped up in it the entire time, trying to figure out who done it and discovering twists I never saw coming. The main female character ends up saving the day in a few situations and I always love that! I would definitely recommend this. It’s very funny, whitty and an overall fun read.

 

Cinder by Marissa Meyer

After completing My Lady Jane I wanted to continue on the fantasy track for a bit because I was really enjoying it. I will admit that in the beginning I told myself there was no way I would like this book. I purchased the beginning of the Lunar Chronicles based on the popularity on Instagram and I’m rarely let town by bookstagram recommendations. But I didn’t see how I would ever enjoy a book about cyborgs. It seemed beyond my realm of imagination especially after just starting to dabble in fantasy novels. I’m so glad I stuck with it though, because I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It’s so well written and very engaging. I wanted to read all day because I was so eager to see what would happen.  I can’t wait to complete the series now.

 

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah

AH! The best book I read this month. It was amazing! Kristin Hannah has been my favorite writer since I read the Nightingale (which is my favorite book ever). She has such a way with writing. I lose myself in her books like I can’t with other writers. There is just something about her writing that makes me feel like I’m watching a story rather than reading it myself. I think she is so great at detail that I can see everything in my mind like a movie. She has a way of breaking your heart but then managing to tie it together so you know the heart break had to happen for the good of the story. I can’t recommend this book and her other novels enough and I can’t wait to continue reading books from her. She is one of the best writers out there.

 

The Couple Next Door by Shari Lepana

This book is good. It is though provoking and interesting. It has twists and turns you definitely don’t expect. I think my issues with it are my own fault. I have noticed a lot of books coming out lately that are so similar. I’m having a hard time differentiating between this one and a few other books I’ve read lately. I think if I did a better job spreading out reading this genre that I would have liked it a bit more. Like I said, the book is well written and captivating so I can see why it’s so popular! This was an audiobook “read” for me and I was definitely engaged the entire time. I think if I had read this in book form I would have had a harder time getting through it just because it feels like every other suspenseful family mystery that I’ve read recently. I still give this 3.5 stars because it’s not the book’s fault that I read too many like it! sometimes I feel like sometimes authors publish books in waves and this happens to resemble a lot of books that came out around the same time.

 

Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

I was so excited to read this because I liked Cinder so much. I made myself read other books in between to break up my new Lunar Chronicles obsession but I was thrilled when I got to pick this one up. This was even better than Cinder! I liked being able to follow to storylines that blended together in the end in such a creative way. This one gave me a bit of a Twilight vibe which I enjoyed. I’m a hopeless romantic so this brought the perfect amount of love story into an action focused novel. I fell in love with a couple of the characters and hope they continue on in the next novel (which I believe they do). I loved the fact that there was such a strong female lead in Cinder. She is strong, independent, and protects the prince but I am a sucker for chivalry so I loved that the female lead in Scarlet was rescued by her love. This series is just going in a great direction for me! So excited to read the rest!

 

Looking for Alaska by John Green

I’m such a dope because I’ve had this in my nightstand drawer for a while and I didn’t make the connection that this author is the same that wrote A Fault in Our Stars. I love John Green’s writing and once I connected those obvious dots, I knew this was my next read. Connecting tot he characters was easy for me for a few reasons. There is something about the main character that reminds me of one of my family members as a kid. I found myself picturing him as the story went along which made it even more enjoyable! Personally,  connected with the storyline because it took me back to my college days in dorm life and some of the weird crap I used to do in school. I love books where you can envision the storyline through experiences you’ve had in your own life. The middle of the book is heartbreaking, but necessary for the ending. The book is separated into two parts which I didn’t understand initially but made total sense in the end. I do think the description of the book on the back is a bit misleading. It sets you up to think something happens that doesn’t. I anticipated a very different ending but I’m thrilled at how it turned out. I think the description should be rewritten, but that’s just me! This isn’t a popular book at the moment as far as I’ve seen but it’s a definite recommendation from me.

 

 

 

Introducing My Fur Children

| Blogs

I’m a huge animal person. I always have been. Since I was young, I’ve found I connect better with animals than people so I have spent my life working with animals in many capacities. I received my undergraduate degree in animal science then my graduate degree specializing in animal welfare. For the past three years I’ve worked at a doggie daycare and a few years ago I went back to school to become a certified dog trainer. Now, I’ve been working as a dog trainer for two years and I absolutely love it. I’m hoping to be able to make that my full-time gig here soon.

 

My pets are my life and my babies. We don’t have kids of our own yet so my pets are extremely spoiled and well loved! Until recently, we had three dogs and a cat. Our sweet dog Lily passed away about a month ago from complications associated with Degenerative Myelopathy, a degenerative disease that causes slow paralysis. Lily was such a sweet girl. She was incredibly emotional and empathetic. She knew when any of us were having a bad day and she made it her mission to make it better.Lily hated for us to hug anyone but her and she vocalized each and every feeling she had! She was the first dog I’ve ever lost and it was one of the worst days of my life. She is missed every day.

 

Gunner is a 10 year old German Shepherd, I gained this big guy when I married my husband, along with his sister Lily. Gunner has a heart of gold and a very gentle personality. He is massive, weighing in at 110 pounds and you can hear him walking around the house whenever he moves. Gunner gained the nickname Thunder because the floor shakes while he walks by! He has zero understanding or awareness of his size and often trips us in doorways and on stairs. He spins and circles us when he is excited meaning we have to stand very still or we risk falling over the big goof or having a toe get stepped on.  

 

Soter is my soul dog. I got him 10 years ago after a personal tragedy and he helped me heal. Because of that, we are extremely bonded! He’s a Pembroke welsh corgi and is the cutest dog I’ve ever seen (I’m not biased). Soter is a total clown. He has more personality than any dog I’ve met. He is insanely smart (smarter than me I swear) with an appetite we for life and all things food. Seriously, this dog has an addiction to all food or food related items… and some non-food related items. He has had two bowel blockage surgeries and has had his stomach pumped a few times because he’s so sneaky about eating the things he’s not supposed to have. We call him out ten thousand dollar dog but he’s worth every penny.

 

Kitty is our only cat, and he has an incredibly creative name. I got Kitty in college, shortly after I got Soter, so they grew up together and are the best of friends. Kitty cleans Soter and they snuggle up on the couch together. Kitty is who I go to when I have major anxiety. Unlike many cats, Kitty is selfless with his time and love. If you pick him up or lay on him he stays put. Kitty knows when you need some extra hugs and is thrilled to offer it. He is the king of head butts and puts Gunner in his place frequently. He doesn’t think the thundering around the house is as cute as we do.

 

So there is an introduction to my pets, aka my fur children. I’m sure they will make frequent appearances in my blog!

 

Erin

February Reading Wrap Up

| Books

Yes… I realize its already March 9 and I’m finally getting this post up! My apologies but March has already been a it hectic for me! Anyway, here is my February Reading wrap up!

I was a bit more successful in my reading ventures in February, despite the fact that it was a shorter month AND the Olympics were going on. Go figure. Also can I just say that I have no idea what to do with my life now that the Olympics are over! I’m not a huge TV person but MAN I got into the Olympics this year. My hubs and I are planning to be the next husband wife curling team in 2022! HA jokes… but we seriously might try curling now. Maybe I’ll do a post on my afterthoughts of the Olympics! WOW…. Sidetracked… ok so despite a short month and two weeks of riveting curling matches, I was still able to complete five books (well like 4.5 but you’ll see why as you continue reading)! So here is my February reading break down with recommendations and suggestions to stay far far away.

 

1.The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen

This was an audiobook and I loved how the reader depicted each character. I think it made the “reading” process even more enjoyable. I’m usually really good at predicting endings to books or movies and this one had me all over the place with twists and turns that I never saw coming. I would definitely recommend this for someone who enjoys a bit of mystery! This was a new release in January but I’ve definitely seen some hype over this book and it is well deserved.  

 

2. The Bookseller by Cynthia Swanson

This is just a nice book. As lame as that sounds, it is! It didn’t blow me out of the water but I definitely enjoyed when I had the opportunity to pick it up and read. It is so well written and the characters are so relatable. The author does an incredible job tying everything together so no loose ends exist in the end. As far as I know this isn’t  well known novel so I’m happy I can spread the word about it a  bit! My mom gave me this book and I’m glad she did. The more time that goes on since I read this, the more I think about this book. I think it brings up a lot of questions for the reader about their own wants and desires for their life. 

 

3. The Zookeeper’s Wife by Diane Ackerman

I wanted to like this so badly! I bought this book months ago because it was released as a movie so I knew it HAD to be good. Boy was I wrong! It was so so bad. I will be honest, I didn’t even finish it. I made it just over halfway through and was still waiting for the story to start. The writing was choppy and mismatched and had zero flow. I felt like I was reading scientific journals and let me tell you, I’ve read scientific journals that were more engaging. I was so bored that I started to dislike reading so I knew I had to stop. After reading other reviews on this book it seems people either loved it or hated it for the same reasons I did. DO NOT RECOMMEND unless you need something to help you fall asleep at night.

 

4. Heartless by Marissa Meyer

This was a great book to read after my failed attempt at The Zookeeper’s Wife. I don’t have a lot of experience with fantasy, I always assumed I wouldn’t enjoy it but, again, I was wrong (this way in a good way!). I loved this book. I love that it was based on a fairy tale I’m familiar with and I enjoyed that the characters take me back to the movie/book Alice and Wonderland. Before I even finished this I had ordered the Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer on Amazon. I saw this book pictured all over Instagram a few months ago and wanted to read it based on other book lovers’ reviews. In my experience, I seem to find that the books I see all over Instagram really are all they are chalked up to be. I definitely recommend this for any reader whether you love fantasy or are just getting into it!

 

5. The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn

The final book that I read was The Woman in the Window. This one really had me thinking! I did not see the direction the book was going. I believe I even gasped a bit during the major plot twist! Seriously had NO idea! It also has an interesting take on mental health. As someone with severe anxiety I found myself being really angry for how people reacted to the main character and her mental health issue. I think it’s so sad how the world can treat people they deem as “crazy.” I definitely recommend this book for those who enjoy mystery and a bit of a thrill.

 

There is my February reading wrap up! I hope I can continue on a steady reading track and meet my goal for the month which is six books! Better get reading!

Erin

A Single Girl’s Guide to Valentines Day

| Blogs

I spent many a Valentines Day as a single lady. In my college days I spent a lot of V-days with friends, hitting the bar scene and taking advantage of being with my girlfriends. Fast forward a few years, I had a career and was not even slightly interested in hitting the bar but I still wanted to do something special for February 14. I can honestly say that my favorite Valentines Days were when I was single! This doesn’t mean I haven’t enjoyed the romantic holiday with my hubby, but there’s something nice about devoting a day to self love and care. I made a conscious decision that I would focus on myself, do things I enjoyed and show myself the love I would normally be dishing out to a valentine. I made a list for all of you single ladies looking to spoil herself and offer herself a whole lotta self love! You deserve it!

1. Dress Up! Dress up for yourself during the day! Whether you are working, running errands or staying in, put on your favorite outfit with your favorite accessories and feel good about yourself! This day is all about you so be sure you check yourself out in a few mirrors throughout the day and offer yourself your highest compliments!

2. Enjoy the day ALL day! Pack yourself a festive lunch or treat yourself to your favorite lunch spot. Make sure you continue to spoil yourself throughout the day. Do the things YOU love knowing you don’t have to worry about catering to someone else’s tastes. If you want the mac and cheese, get yourself the mac and cheese! Calories don’t count on Valentines Day!

3. Cook a different dinner! On your way home hit the grocery store and get ingredients to make something you’ve always wanted to try but haven’t had the time or guts to. My last single Valentines Day I made butternut squash risotto. It took an hour and a half to cook but I blasted music, sipped some wine and enjoyed every minute of it. And let me tell you, it is still my favorite meal to make.

4. Spoil Yourself! Also hit the liquor store (if you drink), and pick up some wine or even better, pink champagne! No guy wants to drink pink champagne so relish in the fact that you don’t care, YOU like pink champagne! If you don’t drink, get some hot chocolate or your favorite beverage at the grocery store when you grab your dinner fixins.

5. Get Comfy! A few days before Valentines Day go out and get (or order online) a pair of insanely comfortable pajamas. I’m talking feeling like you’re wrapped in a cloud jammies. And maybe throw in a pair of slippers! Make sure you don’t cheat and wear them before the big day. Pop those bad boys on the second you walk in the door. Seriously a trail of clothes to your room is totally acceptable. Don’t waste a minute of your you night being anything but oh so comfortable!

6. Listen to great music! Blast your favorite pandora station. I chose to listen so songs that made me feel good and motivated. Song’s that you can rock out to in your kitchen to help you feel your absolute best. No sad sappy stuff!

7. Set the mood! Light some candles with amazing fruity girl smells. Pick your favorite scent and have it going strong!

8. Pillow Fort?! Throw pillows and blankets on your couch so it resembles a giant marshmallow pit! You’re gunna be soooo comfy!

9. Movie time! Eat on the couch in front of your favorite movie. There are no rules on this day that you need to sit at the table. Share your meal with your favorite characters and enjoy that you have the freedom to do so!

10. Self Care!  Finally take a bath or do something along the lines of self care. Read a great book, do a face mask or a pedicure. Do something special that you don’t give yourself the time to do on a normal night!

I can’t stress enough how important self love is! You can’t give love to someone else if you don’t know how to give it to yourself. Make yourself a priority on Valentines Day! Do you, be you, and love you! You are so worth it!

 

Erin

How To Manage Flight Anxiety

| Self Care

I am a very anxious person. However, I’m attempting to make changes in my life to promote calm and happiness. I’ve decided living in a constantly stressed state isn’t healthy and is certainly no way to go about living. Isn’t life too short to spend stressed out of your mind?! One thing that really gets me going is the stress of flying! I don’t fly much, so when I do I have steps I take to keep my sanity and keep from ruining my trip!

This is what helps me when I fly:

1.       I always take something like Dramamine or an anti-dizziness medication. I know medication isn’t for everyone and I certainly respect that! Personally, I find that my stress causes a stomach upset on occasion so if I can nip that in the bud early it helps the flying process for me.

2.       I think of the airport process as steps. Step one is checking in, step two is security and so on and so on. When I can mentally scratch off the steps I find my anxiety reduces with each mental check mark.

3.       ESSENTIAL OILS! Ok essential oils are some of my best friends. I constantly have a diffuser going in my house and I now have a diffuser bracelet for on the go stress relief. I make sure my bracelet is decked out with some serious de-stressing oils so if at any point I need to chill, I can breathe away some of my stress. I’m sure I look nuts sniffing my bracelet randomly but who cares.

4.       My breathing stone! This guy doesn’t make an appearance often, but when it does it’s a big help! I got this at a managing your stress conference a year ago and I love the concept of having something to hold when I feel anxious. You obviously don’t have to have a specific breathing stone, or a stone at all, but I like to have a tangible object that I can use to seek positive or calming energy.

5.       The Calm app. This app is awesome! I use it almost every day. It has meditation help, stories to help you relax or sleep, and relaxing music. I put my headphones in in the airport and listen to a little rain or mountain noises while the world hustles and bustles around me. It’s actually kind of comical to listen to such serine music while watching passengers hauling ass to their gate.

6.       Wine! Ok actually I haven’t been able to have a glass of wine on my past few flights because the turbulence messes with my stomach BUT if you can have a glass of the red (or white) stuff then do it! Or get one of your favorite beverages (alcoholic or non) and sit back and enjoy yourself. You made it through the craziest part and now you get to just sit and relax!

7.       Have you ever noticed how many people get up and crowd the aisle when the seat belt sign comes off. It’s like Hello people they haven’t even opened the door yet.. relax! Nothing makes me more stressed than feeding off of the anxiety of others. I’m sure it’s why flying is so stressful for me. Try not to let these passengers make you sweat. Take your time gathering your things and use this time to plan getting to your bag or your ride. Pay attention because the flight attendants typically announce at which carousel you can find your bag. You’ll already be ahead of all of the pushy passengers who don’t listen to the announcement and have to shoulder their way through crowds to look at the monitors. A win for you!

 

These tricks really help me but it certainly took a while for me to figure out how to help myself with traveling. The main thing I can say is think about how you destress in your everyday life and figure out how to use it when you travel. If it’s exercise, give yourself an additional 15 minutes to just walk around the airport. If it’s shopping, buy yourself something you’ve been wanting and reward yourself for making it through check in and security! I hope some of these tips will help you find some peace while you travel!

Erin

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