I'm Back! {Sort of, Kind of}

Celebrating my birthday back in December

Wow! So, has it been a minute or is it just me?

Yeah, it's been a minute. It's been a year and a half actually. But who's keeping track?

Oh, you are? Well, you're in for a treat, in that case.

So, here we are. It's January 27, 2025. 2025? The last blog post I wrote was on May 30, 2023.

Let's start with the backstory. In May 2023, my daughters were 17 and 21. When I started this little blog in 2008, my daughters were 2 and 6 years old. Crazy, right? Mom blogs were just starting to take off in 2008, and I was considered one of the early adopters. Blogging was like the wild, wild West back then. Anything went and no one cared about blog design and aesthetics. We wrote what we lived, and we wrote from the heart with reckless abandon, not caring about SEO, analytics, or income.

The years ticked by and along came blog designers with all the bells, whistles, and color schemes. Affiliate marketing made its way onto our blogs, and for the first time, we had an opportunity to make money from something other than ads and sponsored content. We could now share what we were wearing, using, and loving, and earn a buck. And we could share it in a pretty space with branded colors and designs.

Through the years, my girls grew up and were less interested in being fodder for my blog. They no longer wanted to be the subjects of my blog posts. Their friends and the moms of their friends were blog readers. Why would they possibly want their trials and tribulations shared among my readers? I couldn't argue with that logic, and so I didn't. As a result, my blog evolved, and so did I. I was no longer a mom to little girls, or even tweens, for that matter.

So, I started sharing more of myself. I shared the things I loved doing from reading to fitness to eating to weekend happenings. And then I stopped. It just didn't seem fun anymore. I had lost my inspiration to write engaging content. I lost my inspiration to share bits and pieces of myself. In one sense the blogging market had become saturated and in another, it had become a graveyard of sorts as content consumers flocked to other platforms.

Over the past year and a half, I have thoroughly missed writing. It's the only way I accurately and effectively express myself. I truly value any kind of communication, but writing has always been the best way for me to get my feelings across. About a year ago, I started journaling using an app on my phone. It's certainly not the same as a handwritten journal, but journaling is more about expressing what you are feeling in a safe space than the method by which you do it. I've found it to be therapeutic, but my blog was always a sort of journal for me as well.

I can't promise that I will write here every day, as I once did. But I hope to start sharing more frequently here and that my content will make a connection to you and resonate in some way.

And just in case the math isn't mathing, my daughters are now 18 (almost 19) and 22. My youngest is a freshman in college, and my oldest is about to embark on a real estate career. They are full-fledged adults now.

I hardly feel old enough to have daughters who are young adults, but that's a blog post for another day.

xoxo

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My Empties

thermal spring water | hyaluronic acid | wrinkle reducing cream | cleansing balm | makeup remover

Ever since I started focusing on my skincare routine, I've been trying to hone in on products that I love, use over and over again, and produce tangible results. But it's a lot of trial and error to get to that point. This month was a combination of products that will consistently become part of my routine and a few that won't make it into the rotation.

Don't forget about Nordstrom's Beautycycle program. Nordstrom now accepts a variety of empty beauty containers that are often difficult or impossible to recycle through your local municipal recycling program. Look for containers in Nordstrom stores, and simply drop your empties in the boxes. Nordstrom works with a third-party vendor who cleans and recycles the containers, turning them into park benches, watering cans, and more.

So, now let's see what I used and loved (or didn't!) recently.

1. Avène Thermal Spring Water

As soon as I learned that you should apply hyaluronic acid to damp skin, I bought this water for spritzing my face prior to applying my hyaluronic acid. While you can use plain, old tap water to dampen your skin, this water had a fine mist that evenly coated my entire face and felt very refreshing. At less than $11 per bottle, it's a very reasonably priced indulgence that I will definitely purchase again.

2. The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid

Speaking of hyaluronic acid, I gave this one from The Inkey List a try, mostly because of its price point. At $9.99 for a 1.0 fl. oz. bottle, it's hard to beat. It wasn't bad, but it was slightly sticky, and I prefer a hyaluronic acid that's a bit thicker than this one. And I didn't love that it doesn't dispense via a dropper. It's a flip cap that pours into your palm. I prefer a dropper so that I can apply the product directly to my face and then spread it around. I'm most likely not going to purchase this again unless I'm in a pinch.

3. Kiehl's Powerful Wrinkle Reducing Cream

As far as a moisturizer, I loved this nutrient-rich cream. It left my skin completely hydrated without feeling heavy. As for its anti-aging properties, I can't say that I saw any significant reduction in my wrinkles and fine lines. I would definitely purchase this cream again for use as a nighttime moisturizer, but I know not to expect much in terms of anti-aging.

4. Elemis Pro-Collagen Naked Cleansing Balm

I am a devotee of Clinique's Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm, but when this cleansing balm from Elemis was half-priced at Ulta, I jumped at the chance to try it at that price point. I was disappointed. Elemis has such a great reputation, and I have friends and family who swear by their products. But this cleansing balm just didn't knock my socks off. I didn't like the thick and gooey consistency, and the scent wasn't strong, but it wasn't entirely nonexistent either. I'll be sticking with my tried and true favorite from Clinique.

5. Clinique Take The Day Off Makeup Remover

This makeup remover has long been a part of my nightly skincare routine. I use it to mainly remove eye makeup. With just a few swipes of a cotton ball, this remover takes off stubborn mascara, eye shadow, and eye liner. Many eye makeup removers tend to be oil-based, it is what makes them effective. But this one doesn't leave an oily residue behind. It would take a really stellar remover to make me switch this one out of my routine.

Shop "My Empties" here:

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What To Wear To a Winery

 

featured:

dress (similar) or this one  | tassel necklace (similar) | thong sandal | straw tote | fedora (similar) | sunglasses

It's wine season here in New Jersey. Local vineyards are gearing up for summer events including wine tastings, vineyard tours, and outdoor concerts. If you are unsure what to wear on a warm summer afternoon or evening while sipping tasty local wines, read on.

Slipdress - You want to be casual, comfortable, and stylish for a wine tasting. An easy slipdress is perfect for the occasion. This one is another inexpensive but cute option.

Tassel Necklace - Kick the dress up a notch by adding a fabulous necklace.

Straw Fedora - Hats are stylish and functional. Protect your skin and look good in the process with a straw fedora.

Sandals - Chances are you'll be doing some walking at a vineyard. If you're planning to tour the grounds, a flat sandal is your best choice.

Straw Tote - A wine tote is a must-have accessory. With room for a bottle of wine, acrylic glasses, a wine opener, a wine stopper, and more, this chic tote will hold all of your essentials.

Sunglasses - Vineyards aren't known for their shade, so be sure to bring your sunnies with you.

If you plan on staying in to the evening, grab a blazer or a denim jacket for later.

The key is to be comfortable while still maintaining your style. Simplicity is the focus of this outfit. Wine is easy. Your outfit should be as well.

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Tips To Be Roof-Ready For Spring

photo via

It's been a doozy of a winter here at the Jersey Shore. We've had a little bit of everything from snow to sleet to high winds. Any one of those weather elements, much less the combination of all three, is a recipe for disaster for your roof. In the aftermath of our recent storm, we woke to find roofing shingles scattered throughout our property. 

High winds had wreaked havoc on our roof, and we had no idea how widespread the problem was since we could see only random shingles that had blown off rather. It was time to call in a professional. We turned to Peter's Roofing to get a better idea of the extent of the damage, an estimate of repairs, and a timeline for getting the work completed.

With spring on the way, we wanted to be sure the repairs were completed before the rainy season sets in, potentially creating an even bigger problem. We also have a skylight in our kitchen that we wanted to have inspected to be sure we aren't on the verge of a leak.

photo via

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My 5 Favorite Mocktails

A little more than a year ago when we were tossed into COVID quarantine, my alcohol consumption pretty much ground to a halt. To be fair, I really only drank when I went out (either to dinner or a party or to a friend's house). I stopped drinking at home a while ago, and when it finally dawned on me that the after-effects of drinking weren't doing me any favors, I stopped drinking altogether. Every once in a while I will have a very short glass of wine or some prosecco to celebrate a special occasion, and sometimes if a new flavor is introduced, I'll try a spiked seltzer. Otherwise, I stick to non-alcoholic versions of my favorite cocktails.

I don't miss the taste of alcohol or the way it made me feel the next day, but I do miss some of the rituals around alcohol. Pouring a glass of wine signaled that my workday was over, and what a great feeling that always is. I can still enjoy those rituals, but now it's with a mocktail.

Here are 5 of my favorite mocktails that show that all the fun isn't just for cocktails.

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My Empties

 featured:

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid | Mario Badescu Facial Mist | The Ordinary Caffeine Solution | Peace Out Dullness Pads | Clinique cleansing balm

Happy Tuesday, friends! Over the weekend I finished up a few products so I thought I'd share them with you before I recycle the containers. Speaking of recycling, have you heard about Nordstrom's Beautycycle program? Nordstrom now accepts a variety of empty beauty containers that are often difficult or impossible to recycle through your local municipal recycling program. Look for containers in Nordstrom stores, and simply drop your empties in the boxes. Nordstrom works with a third-party vendor who cleans and recycles the containers, turning them into park benches, watering cans, and more.

So, now let's see what I used and loved recently.

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Podcasts I'm Currently Loving

Every weekday morning after I drop Harper off at school, I sit down at my desk with a mug of hot lemon water and listen to The Daily, a current events podcast from The New York Times. It's my favorite way to kick off the day, and host Michael Barbaro's voice is so soothing in the early morning. As the day goes on, I switch back and forth from music to podcasts depending on my mood and what I'm working on. If I need to be more productive, music is a better option. But when I want to chill, a podcast is ideal.

A recent group text with friends where we chatted about podcasts and offered up our recommendations inspired this post. Here are the podcasts that I am currently loving.

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The Books I Read in October

I've got some catching up to do in the books department! As much as I enjoy writing these posts and looking back and reflecting on past reads, it's a lot of work to compile the information and present it clearly and concisely. There are countless times I've sat down to write these recap posts, and I've said to myself, "I'll come back to it after I read a chapter in my current book." Ha! A chapter becomes two or three and then it's time to make dinner or workout, and I never get to the post. So, I had to set a reminder on my phone and put it on my Must Do list in order to absolutely accomplish it today.

Here we go. Here are the three books I read in October.

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Life Lately

Hi, friends! It's been a while, so I thought I'd jump back in to blogging with a Life Lately post to check in and catch up. How is everyone doing? Anyone have COVID fatigue and burnout? 🙋‍♀️ I'm over here raising my hand for all of the above and then some. Sheesh. It hasn't been easy. Here in New Jersey, the number of cases has been steadily increasing, and further restrictions have been put in place. We aren't as confined as we were back in March and early spring, but limitations have been put primarily on restaurants since that seems to be where people have been gathering in groups sans masks and social distancing.

We just returned from a week in Florida, so we are in quarantine mode here at home, although I'm not quite sure why since our caseload and Florida's are probably similar. But, we just do what we are told. We had our annual trip to our timeshare in Captiva Island, Florida, and it was great to get away. I was very apprehensive about flying, but it was actually fine. All the passengers were very good about wearing masks and keeping them on during the flight and while in the airports. South Seas Island Resort requires masks indoors and social distancing both indoors and outdoors at the pools, beach, etc.

I posted only once on Instagram stories from South Seas while we were away. I was concerned about backlash for going away, and I thought is was best to keep a low profile while we were traveling. Plus, the weather wasn't great, and our trip was very low key. I took advantage of both of those to unplug and unwind and try to relax before returning to New Jersey. I usually take over 500 pictures in Captiva, but only have about 60 to show for this trip. 

This was the sunset our first night there. The clouds made it look like some sort of explosion. Sadly, there wasn't another sunset until our late night there (second picture).

Both are pretty spectacular though, and South Seas Resort never disappoints no matter the weather.

But now, we are back home and back to business. Harper is not permitted in school for two weeks since we traveled to a state on the quarantine list, so she is home working remotely until after Thanksgiving. When she returns, she'll now be there 5 days per week from 8 AM to 12 PM. I wonder how long that schedule will remain in place. Emma does all of her college work remotely, which has been an interesting college experience for her, and working part-time at a tanning salon. Tomorrow Emma has to have a COVID test in order to return to work next week. She'll be the first one in our family to have the test.

I've been doing a lot of reading lately and have tons of books to share with you (in separate posts). I read three books while in Captiva. I started the fourth season of The Crown last night. Anyone else watching? I've loved all the other seasons and am hoping this one is just as captivating. In other news, my gym opened last month, and I've gone several times. I had really grown to love my outdoor runs and walks, but on days when it's either been too cold or raining, I've gone to the gym. Plus, I've been taking a yoga class on Fridays and Sundays by one of my favorite instructors. I was never able to get into doing yoga at home via video during quarantine. I am thrilled to be back doing it and doing it safely with limited class size. For me, yoga helps to tame my anxiety (which, hello, has been at an all-time high lately).

Speaking of anxiety, how about the election? Whew! Glad that's over. I read an interesting article last week about the number of influencers who had chosen to remain quiet about where they stood this election, and that it has hurt them because they didn't take a vocal stand. I always struggle with how much to share when it comes to politics. This election year, I didn't hold back, which was evident in my IG stories, if you were following along. I'm happy to say that I didn't lose followers on Instagram. It's often hard to know what to share and not to share whether it pertains to politics or not.

I have to tell you. It feels good to sit down and write this post. It feels good to be getting my act together  to blog as well as pouring my heart out here. I always feel like something is missing from my life when I'm not keeping the blog updated.

I can't think of anything else for now. If you have something to share, I'd love to hear about it in the comments or via email at piecesofamom@gmail.com. Sharing is caring!! ❤️

Until next time...xx

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Splurge vs. Save: Snow Boots

The weather may be mild right now, but before we know it, we'll be trudging through snow and over ice. Not one of my favorite visuals, but it's a reality, and we should be prepared for it with a pair of warm and sturdy snow boots. For years, I've been wearing my Hunter wellies in the snow, but they aren't very warm, even when I wear a boot liner or a heavy sock. I've been looking around at snow boots and was surprised at the many styles and price points. Here are two very similar styles of snow boots that I came across with very different price points.

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The 10 Best Things I've Bought From Amazon Lately

Amazon has been coming in clutch for the past six months while we've been on lockdown. And even now that most stores are open in some capacity, we are still relying heavily on Amazon. Every two weeks we've placed at least one order for anything from a handy kitchen gadget to a bathroom organization item to a cozy piece of loungewear and more. A recent browse through my Order History on Amazon inspired me to share some of my best buys with you.

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10 Things to Consider When Renovating a Bathroom

photo via

The bathroom is one of the most highly trafficked rooms in any home. When guests arrive, they typically ask to use the bathroom before seeing the rest of the house. When you are ready to achieve the heart of perfection in this essential space, consider these ten important things during your next bathroom renovation project.

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The Books I Read in July

Last month in addition to reading two Elin Hilderbrand novels, I also had a chance to meet her and have a book signed by her. I was thrilled!!! After coming off my high from reading 28 Summers, her latest release which came out earlier this summer, I couldn't wait to meet her. I was definitely fangirling. I attended the signing with my girlfriend Cathy, who is also a fan. It was a highlight in an otherwise strange and different summer.

OK, so now on to the books I read in July:

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How To Create The Perfect Home Office

When the COVID-19 quarantine was handed down, many people found themselves in a situation where they were required to continue working...but they had to do it from their homes. Now that many countries are slowly opening up using a multi-phase approach, many employers are giving employees the option to permanently telecommute. For many, permanently working from home is attractive as it allows for greater flexibility to tend to your family as well as provide for them.

I've been telecommuting for eight years, and although I love the freedom and flexibility, it's not without its challenges. Here are three things that have helped me to effectively work from home, avoid distractions, and do my job successfully.

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The Perfect Bloody Mary

Summer is the perfect time to get creative with cocktails. All the fresh, local ingredients are so inspiring.

One of my all-time favorites is the Bloody Mary. It's such a versatile cocktail. You can serve it for brunch or for late afternoon/early evening cocktails on the patio. Whatever time you have it and for whatever occasion, make no mistake, it's a crowd-pleaser.

Believe it or not, my kids love Bloody Marys so I usually make individual drinks using a small martini shaker and add vodka to individual glasses.

The Perfect Bloody Mary

Ingredients
Ice
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
3 to 4 dashes hot sauce (I like Frank's)
2 ounces vodka (adjust to taste)
5 ounces tomato juice
1/2 tablespoon lemon juice

2 splashes Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon prepared horseradish

1 pinch of ground cayenne pepper

Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Optional garnishes:

Celery stalks

Olives

Pickles

Capers

Lemon wedges

Preparation

1. Add 2 cubes of ice to a high ball glass. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and hot sauce. Set aside.

2. In a martini shaker, combine vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, and ground cayenne.

3. Place the lid on the shaker tightly and vigorously shake.

4. Pour contents of the shaker over the seasoned ice in the high ball glass. Stir.

5. Garnish with celery, olives, pickles. and/or lemon wedges.

Cheers!

Note: This recipe isn't overly spicy but has some kick to it. You can adjust any of the seasonings or sauces listed here to your liking.

Need a pitcher and some tall glasses for serving this delicious cocktail? Here are a few of my favorites:

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A Go-to Dessert: Death By Chocolate Trifle

I first had this dessert about 15 years ago at a holiday party hosted by a friend. After that night, I dreamed of this dessert. It's just that good. If you have a serious sweet tooth (as I do) and love chocolate (as I do), you will not be able to resist this dessert. Now, years later, I make this dessert every Christmas. It's a huge hit!

So if you've volunteered to take dessert to a holiday gathering, take this one! It's perfect for a large group. You can serve it in any type of deep bowl, but I prefer a clear trifle bowl.

DEATH BY CHOCOLATE TRIFLE

Ingredients:

1 box of devil's food cake mix (and any ingredients needed to make the cake)

1 cup of coffee flavored liqueur (I like Kahlua, but any brand will do)

3 packages of chocolate mousse mix (and ingredients needed to make the mousse) (Can be found with the pudding and jello mixes)

2-12 oz. containers of Extra Creamy Cool Whip

1-12 oz. bag of mini semi-sweet chocolate morsels

To prepare:

1. Bake cake according to package directions in a 9x13 pan.

2. Immediately upon removing the cake from oven, poke holes into the cake using a kabob skewer or a large meat fork.

3. Pour the coffee liqueur over the hot cake. Cover and allow to marinate overnight.

4. Prepare chocolate mousse according to package directions and refrigerate overnight.

To assemble trifle:

This dessert is so pretty that it's best served in a glass trifle dish. But if you don't have one, you can always use a deep bowl.

1. Cut the cake into small squares.

2. Place one layer of cake on the bottom of the trifle dish, completely covering the bottom.

3. Place one layer of chocolate mousse on top of the cake pieces.

3. Top the mousse with a layer of cool whip.

4. Sprinkle the cool whip with a layer of mini morsels.

5. Repeat layers until the trifle dish is filled to the top.

ENJOY!

For the holidays, you may also like these dessert recipes: peanut butter cookies, snickerdoodles, and orange brownies.

For more dessert ideas, visit my Pinterest board, What's For Dessert?

If you need a trifle bowl, here are a few of my favorites. Click on the photo to purchase.

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