I know I mentioned it last month, but I still cannot believe how quickly this year went by. My new position this year was amazing. I just love the school district, staff, and students. Before I head back in August we have a lot of fun planned for summer. Here is what else I have been up to and my family’s life lately for May 2025.
Books I’ve Read
- The Story Collector by Evie Woods– This a dual-timeline novel that intertwines the lives of Anna, a young Irish farm girl in 1910 who assists an American scholar in translating fairy tales, and Sarah, a modern-day woman who, after discovering Anna’s diary, uncovers secrets that blur the lines between reality and folklore in a small Irish village. It’s a lovely story with a fairytale element that caught my attention. 4/5
- The Mysterious Bakery on Rue de Paris by Evie Woods– Edie Lane leaves Ireland for a dream job in Paris, only to find herself in the small French town of Compiègne, where a magical bakery’s enchanted pastries lead her on a journey of self-discovery and unexpected belonging. I liked other book by this author so I got this one, too. It also has a sense of fairytale/magic. I liked the main character’s personal discovery. 4/5
Recipes I’ve Made
- Salted Caramel Butter Bars– We all really liked the salted caramel in these bars. The little bit of salt made all the difference!
- Cookie Butter Brownies– I’m sad about these. They had so much promise. But they are way too rich. The brownie layer overpowers the cookie butter flavor. I think they would be better if the same recipe was made in a 9×13 pan so they are thinner (the crust was way too thick and so was the frosting). I also think a blondie layer would be better than brownie layer. BUT the frosting is really tasty! If you want a cookie butter frosting recipe, use this one!
- Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies– I had some trouble finding mini Reese’s Pieces and the picture didn’t even look like they used them so I’m a bit confused. There was no mention of a PB drizzle either. Perhaps they mistyped and meant mini Reese’s cups and chopped Reese’s cups. Regardless, they were very good, but would likely be better as pictured.
- Garlic Butter Honey BBQ Tacos and Sauce– I made this sauce to eat with some pulled smoked pork on tacos. IT WAS SO GOOD. Very different from a traditional taco flavor, but delicious and so yummy with the pork.
Products I’ve Tried
- Skinny Mixes- Jordan’s Skinny Mixes have truly elevated my summer sipping and snacking routine! I already love using Skinny Mixes in everything from tea and milk to yogurt, oatmeal, protein drinks, and even cocktails—and their fruity flavors like Lemonade, Strawberry Lemonade, Watermelon Lemonade, and Peach Iced Tea are absolute perfection. Each one has a bright, refreshing taste without the extra sugar or calories. The Lemonade line is especially delicious for mixing into iced teas or sparkling water for a guilt-free treat, while the Peach Iced Tea is my go-to for a sweet, Southern-inspired boost. These flavors make it so easy to enjoy all my favorite summer treats in a lighter, tastier way!
Currently 
- Loving- I loved seeing all my Girl Scout Daisies bridge to Brownies. It was a very nice ceremony and I think everyone enjoyed themselves.
- Looking forward to- I have a haircut and highlight scheduled this Friday. Normally, I’m really bad about scheduling them regularly, but I didn’t let too much time pass. I’m really looking forward to a refresh.
- Leaving behind- It’s officially summer break for me! I’m leaving behind stress of work and Girl Scout planning for a few months. Woohoo!
- Letting go of- I’ve been through my closet and letting go of some clothing. It’s always nice to have a few extra hangers.
- Looking at- I just love flowers! My irises have been blooming like crazy. Lately, I have a few vases of them around the house so I can see them and enjoy them more.
- Life Lately May 2025 Family Update
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- Avie– Avie wrapped up her second year of Daisy Girl Scouts and bridged to the next level. I got to chaperone her field trip to the Brookfield Zoo which she loved. Avie and Claire also met Olympian Cody Miller (a breaststoker) at their awards night. Avie got Most Improved!
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- Claire- Claire had a phenomenal month athletically. She got a sub 8:00 mile with a 7:57 and so did her friend! They run well together. She also earned her first ever regional swim time in the 400IM.
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- Me- I wrapped up school last Friday until mid August. It’s nice having a week and a half before the kids begin their break. We got to see the musical Cats for Mother’s Day which was fun. We spent the past weekend in Wisconsin with my family having fun with cousins. A great month for sure.
- Matt- Matt has been very busy at work with all the new government potential legislation changes surrounding the food industry.
May 2025 Goals
- Treat myself once a month– I did get flowers in May, so check!
- Purchase something new for the home– I had the darn tab open all month and never got around to it.
- Plant the flower pots- Done!
- Schedule a race- Unfinished.
June 2025 Goals
- Massage and/or float session- I got a float session and massage for Mother’s Day. I want to treat myself to both of these this month.
- Finally order a new chair for living room- It’s so needed. Seriously.
- Find a race or two to schedule- I do love running, but training is so rewarding!
- Buy new trees & weed- Two of our trees have died. We need replacements and a few bushes. I want to get them taken care of. There is one more area that needs the thistles taken out-my all time least favorite job.
May Favorite Posts
P.S. Are you following me on LTK? I post a lot of my daily looks that don’t make it onto the blog. I hope you enjoyed my Life Lately May 2025 update!
LINKING UP WITH WHAT’S UP WEDNESDAY, OVERFLOWING WITH THANKFULNESS
