Friday Vibes

                                                                          Looking at the Weekend

I am so grateful today is Friday. There’s just something about knowing the weekend is finally here that makes everything feel a little lighter. Even when life is busy—and let’s be honest, it usually is—it’s nice to pause for a moment and look ahead at what’s coming instead of rushing through the days.

This weekend feels like a good one, full but not overwhelming, and that’s my favorite kind.

Tomorrow will start with a trip to the laundromat since our washing machine is still not working. It’s not exactly how I’d choose to spend a Saturday, but I’m making the best of it. I plan to wash all the clothes so we can hopefully be set for the week ahead. Sometimes those simple, necessary errands are just part of life, and I try to remind myself that they won’t last forever.

After that, I’ll be picking up some pizzas so we can celebrate Lane’s actual birthday at Brody and Savannah’s. Even though there’s already been celebrating, there’s something special about acknowledging someone on their real birthday. I also have a small toy for Lane to open on his big day, and I’m looking forward to seeing his reaction. Those little moments are what really stick with you.

Sunday is shaping up to be a busy but fun day as well. My best friend Cherrie  and I are heading to Norman to Crest to do our monthly grocery shopping. It’s funny how errands like grocery shopping become more enjoyable when you’re doing them with your best friend. We always manage to laugh, catch up, and somehow turn a regular chore into quality time.

I’m also hoping we can find something fun to do while we’re out so I’ll have a cute “Sunday Funday” blog post to write about. That’s always the goal—memories first, blog post second. When I get back home and unload groceries, I’ll head over to Blake and Jessica’s to take Brooks his small birthday gift and wish him a happy birthday on his actual day. It makes my heart happy to be able to do that.

All in all, it feels like a good, well-balanced weekend. Busy, yes—but full of people I love and moments that matter.

Another thing that’s been on my mind lately is vacation planning. This morning, my sweet husband asked me how much money I already have saved for my New York trip in April. When I gave him the total, I honestly surprised myself. I have half of what I plan to take in cash already saved, and that feels like a big accomplishment.

I still need to purchase my plane ticket, which I’ll put on a credit card and then pay off, but overall I feel like I’m in a really good place financially for this trip. I cannot even put into words how excited I am. This New York trip has lived in my mind for years—decades, really—and I’m so grateful that it’s finally becoming a reality. It feels like one of those dreams that’s been waiting patiently for its turn.

As if that wasn’t exciting enough, yesterday at work my coworkers were talking about doing a team-building day trip to Las Vegas. The idea is to fly out early in the morning and come back late that night, sometime in September. I’ve never done a trip like that before, but honestly, it sounds like it could be a lot of fun with my work besties.

They’re estimating flights around $200, plus spending money for food, souvenirs, and maybe a little casino fun. That means I’ll need to start a separate envelope just for that trip. Between New York, a possible Vegas day trip, and hopefully another visit to North Dakota to see Trevor and his family, there’s a lot of planning ahead.

I’m still hoping I can make it to North Dakota in May for Kyndall’s birthday. I’m not sure yet if I’ll be able to get the time off, but I’m going to try. A Nana has to at least try, right?

Of course, while planning trips and fun things, real life is still happening. We still need to be looking at buying a new washing machine so we don’t have to keep hauling laundry to the laundromat. And I’m also trying to be intentional about making time for Sherry and our Sunday Fun Days.

We’ve been talking about keeping those days more budget-friendly, and honestly, that makes sense. There are so many free or low-cost things to do locally or even in Oklahoma City if you really look. Walks, festivals, people-watching, window shopping, parks, and little hidden gems—we just need to start seeking them out. Saving money doesn’t mean giving up fun, and I think that’s an important lesson we’re both embracing.

So that’s a little peek into my weekend and what’s been on my mind lately. What are your plans for the weekend? If you think of any fun activities you think I might enjoy, definitely leave a comment—I’d love to hear your ideas.

Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to stop by and read. I’d really love it if you’d say hello in the comments. I hope you have a wonderful day, a relaxing weekend, and as always—thanks for stopping by.

Happy New Year 2026

Hello 2026: Goals, Gratitude, and a Whole Lot of Excitement

Happy New Year, friends! ✨

Hello, 2026—you already feel like you’re going to be a good one.

I’m stepping into this new year with excitement buzzing in my bones and a heart full of anticipation. There’s just something about a fresh calendar that makes everything feel possible again. This year isn’t about pressure or perfection for me—it’s about intention, experiences, and progress in whatever form that takes.

One of the biggest highlights on the horizon is a dream I’ve carried with me since I was about 16 years old: a trip to New York City. I can hardly believe I finally get to say that out loud. I’m looking forward to all the touristy things—walking the streets, soaking in the energy, and seeing places I’ve only ever admired from afar. It feels surreal and incredibly exciting to check this off my life list.

Another trip close to my heart will be heading north to visit Trevor and his family. This Nana needs some quality snuggle time with Kyndall and Liam. There is nothing better than being surrounded by little voices, laughter, and the sweet chaos that only grandchildren bring.

2026 also marks a special milestone for Mr. C. and me—our 5th wedding anniversary. Even though we’ve been together for over 20 years, it still feels worth celebrating. Life has had its seasons, but we’re still here, still choosing each other, and that’s something I never take for granted.

As for my goals this year, I’m keeping things realistic and meaningful. Decluttering the house is high on my list. The older I get, the stronger the urge becomes to simplify and let go of what no longer serves us. I don’t need to do it all at once—I just need to start somewhere.

I’m also committing to working in a personal journal. I love my blog, but I want something just for me—a space to decorate with washi tape and stickers, to write without editing, and to create for the joy of it.

Health is another focus this year. I’ll be honest—I love carbs, sugar, pasta, bread, and chocolate. Cutting back won’t be easy, but I know small changes add up, and I want to take better care of myself.

I’ve also been missing having a home computer. My desk is organized, staged, and ready—it just needs the computer to bring it to life. I truly believe if it’s there, I’ll use it.

And then there’s my passport. Still not finished. Still on the list. This is the year it gets done—no more excuses.

I don’t make resolutions because they never seem to stick for me. Goals feel gentler. If I stumble, I’ll keep going. If something no longer fits, I’ll adjust. That’s grace, and I’m allowing myself plenty of it this year.

Here’s to new beginnings, meaningful goals, and a year filled with experiences worth remembering.

Cheers to 2026—let’s do this. 🥂