Hi!


I'm Shay! I’m a cookbook author, lifestyle blogger, travel agency owner, wife and mama who loves making every day special for my family.

Read more

Mix & Match Mama

Fashion, Friday Favorites ·

Friday Favorites


Friday Favorites 01

Oh hello there Friday.

It’s good to see you again :).

Today, I’m linking up with three of my favorite people… Erika, Andrea and Narci…and sharing my favorite things from the week.  I have something sad, something Christmas-y, something new, something helpful, something on sale and something delicious.  Here we go…

1

SOMETHING SAD…

Downton

I finished Downton Abbey this week.

Sigh.

I could just cry about it.

I did NOT want it to end.  How am I going to get through my days without Lady Violet?  Or Branson?  Or Thomas?  Insert all the sad feelings HERE.  Oh friends, I am so glad you told me to watch this one (back HERE when I did my binge watching post).  Now…what should I watch next?  Here are my thoughts and you let me know what you think: I watched one episode of Doctor Thorne and one epsiode of Mr. Selfridge and thought they were both okay.  Have you seen either?  Do you like one more than the other?  Andrew tells me I should watch Homeland and then a friend this week told me I needed to watch Castle.  Thoughts?  Opinions?  Do share!  I love having a show to watch…especially when I’m working or doing cardio.

I’ll miss you Downton Abbey.

2

SOMETHING CHRISTMAS-Y…

Plush Nativity

Well, I know what you’re thinking…nativity scenes?  It’s only July!  Yes, yes, yes…but every year, my friend Megan’s online boutique sells these nativity scenes and they ALWAYS sell out way in advance.  So today, you can pre-order :).  We love putting ours out every Christmas.  You can see them HERE.  Hurry!  They’ll be gone soon!!

3

SOMETHING NEW…

IMG_8849

I bought a MacBook.

Which is scary if you know me.

I needed to upgrade my laptop this week and after talking to several friends, I felt that since it’s 2016, I needed to get a MacBook this time around.   So far, so good.  I was soooooo nervous that I would hate it and have to return it, but so far, I seem to know what I’m doing.  That being said, I probably do not know what I’m doing, so if you’re a Mac person and have tips for me, PLEASE COMMENT AND SHARE.  I know that “Mac people” know the ins and outs, so please, please, please, I beg you…share your wealth of knowledge.  Thank you :).

4

SOMETHING HELPFUL…

How I Pack for a Trip!

My “How I Pack For a Trip” post was so much fun this week!  I kind of threw it together at the last minute after some of your questions and it turned into this really helpful post for me too!  Read the comments friends, you ladies have some EXCELLENT ideas!  Packing cubes?  Who knew? I’m totally buying those for our next trip.  Love, love, loved doing this post with you! #packersunite

5

SOMETHING ON SALE…

Nordstrom-Anniversary-Sale-2014

Everyone get ready!  Next week, I kick off my first of TWO super fun giveaways with the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!  You will NOT want to miss this.  Multiple winners, amazing prizes.  If you’re a cardholder, you can shop now, if you’re not…then the fun begins on Thursday!  Who doesn’t love a sale for items that are BRAND SPANKIN’ NEW?!

Giveaways next week!!

And many of you asked what I ordered yesterday and as soon as it arrives, I’ll take pics and show you!  The bootie game was STRONG this year!  So was the accessory game (holy scarves!) and the jackets.  I’ll keep you posted!

6

SOMETHING DELICIOUS…

Best Burger Recipes

I’m sharing my VERY BEST BURGERS today!  Burgers are one of my favorite things to eat and today, I’m sharing lots of fun and unique ways for you to make them at home.  I have every flavor combo under the sun, vegetarian burgers, turkey burgers, classic burgers, unique burgers and always delicious burgers.  Your weekend needs my burgers.  See them all HERE.

That’s it for my Friday Favorites!  We have family in town right now and a fun weekend planned…here’s hoping you have a nice one too!  Lots of love between now and the next time we meet.

xo

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

You’ll Also Love

Friday Favorites
Monday Favorites
Friday Favorites

Comments

  1. Lauren says

    I love Blue Bloods (I imagine you would too being a NKOTB fan!). I couldn’t stop watching that one. Also Jane the Virgin is pretty funny. Both are on Netflix.

  3. Emily says

    Hi Shay! Definitely don’t watch Castle… Starts off great and then it “jumped the shark” pretty early on… I also love Jane the Virgin and just started the Good Wife which is pretty good.

  6. Holly says

    I loved Castle! It was a fun, entertaining, fairly mindless show. I have 3 kids under 4, so that’s what I look for in a show. 😉 I did not enjoy Mr Selfridge at all.

  7. Tara G. says

    We’ve used Rick Steve cubes for many many years. We also like hanging toiletry bags. My husband loves his Rick Steves, I prefer LLBean, & my girls,have some from PBK.

  8. Erika Slaughter says

    I’m headed back to your packing post to read all the tips!! I was just chatting yesterday with someone about that packing method-maybe people have been doing it for years? Either way I’m SO glad you shared it with me!! It’s a vacation game changer!

  9. Alli says

    Madam Secretary is amazing!! Tea’ Leoni plays a phenomenal character- it’s exciting and loving and fabulous.

  10. Narci Dreffs says

    Oh my goodness!! So many fun things to discuss!! That nativity scene is darling!! Also, isn’t Lady Violet the best??? Also, I’m hopping over right now to check out your burger post!! You always have the best burger recipes!!

  11. Kelly Giles says

    You need to watch Castle! Its sooooo good 🙂

    I also really like Outlander. It didn’t hook me straight away, but hang in there, trust me. It just takes a little bit to get going (about 2 episodes) but when it does. SO GOOD!!!!

  12. Sheaffer says

    I’m so impressed that you are already dominating your Mac. You must be smarter that I thought! Ha! Or maybe I’m just dumber than I thought. 🙂 Hopping over to check out those burgers!

  13. Jeanie says

    I think you would love Doc Martin. It has a lot of episodes and is so British cute. Also West Wing is good and while a bit dated, still really relevant. Mr. Selfridge is very good once you get into it. It takes a bit to but if you have ever been to Selfridges in London then it is pretty neat. I loved Blue Bloods although it is a bit hokey but very sweet family moments. I don’t know if you are familiar with Acorn TV but if you love Brit shows it is the best. It is like Netflix but just British shows. Oh another wonderful Brit show is Call The Midwife.

  14. Bethany says

    I’ve seen all and my pick is homeland for sure! Listen to your husband :). After homeland (or before) you need to get on the Game of Thrones train. 23 Emmys isn’t for no reason. 🙂 It’s totally my favorite! Happy Friday!

  16. Jess says

    Homeland is the best! Very addicting.I totally recommend it. I have been watching Frasier after your stranded with Netflix post. How did I not watch this back in the 90s!!

  17. Sarah says

    I am on the last season of Downton and I can’t stand the thought that it’s almost over. I am going to miss it so much.

  18. Ginger says

    If you liked Breaking Bad, the sequel, or prequel, to it “Better Call Saul” has the 1st season on Netflix. It’s sauls backstory. You’ll LOVE it.

    Also, Bloodline on Netflix. Coach Taylor from FNL plays the lead. So good. So good.

    Also, Rectify is the TV’s best kept secret. The most current season isn’t on Netflix yet, but it’s on Amazon.

    Also, Broadchurch, a British crime drama. You will be sucked in.

  19. Stacie Fillman says

    I rarely watch tv series, I’ve watched maybe three or 4 because I’m so picky. Parenthood, one tree hill, and PRISON BREAK!!! Prison break is a must watch, you won’t be disappointed. My husband and I literally couldnt wait to watch every episode and the best news ever is that they announced a new season!! 🙂

  20. Kati Matthews says

    I need to confess that I’ve never seen an episode of Downton Abbey. I think I’m the only one on the face of the Earth… but I may take a peek after this season of Big Brother. Maybe you need to join our friend Erika and myself? It will change your life. Ha!

  22. Stephanie says

    You should watch Peaky Blinders on Netflix! The time period is after World War 1 so maybe change it up after Downton Abbey.. But keep this one in mind!

    • Emily H. says

      Peaky Blinders is my absolute favorite! My husband and I are both obsessed. I don’t recommend it to everybody though–it’s definitely mature content.

  23. Tiffany Good says

    When calls the Heart season 1-3… Awesome. Lori Laughlin is in it so you will love it as a Full House fan????

  24. Marla says

    Try House of Cards. We have become addicted. And now we’re hooked on Bloodline! They will not disappoint!

  25. Holly Floyd says

    I am 32 and I am completely obsessed with Pretty Little Liars! My husband watches it with me too!! And for an oldie you should watch One Tree Hill!! Totally will take you back!

  27. Shannon Atherton says

    Woohoo! So excited you entered the Mac world! You will never want to go back. They are so user friendly, you’re going to love it!

  29. Kate T says

    You may have already watched this but Parenthood is amazing. Homeland is incredible. Thanks for the post on the packing tips. Can’t wait for the Nordstrom post. Happy weekend!

  30. Sarah Lewis says

    Welcome to the Mac family 🙂 Once you go Mac, you never got back 😉 my best advice is probably…most everything is click and drag. You need to move something somewhere? Click and drag away! Also, there are lots of keyboard shortcuts for stuff. For example, opening a new tab in safari…hit the Command and T. Save something? Command and S. When I learned the keyboard shortcuts, I loved my Mac even more. 🙂

  31. Erin Richards says

    Downton Abbey and Homeland are my favorite binge watches ever! Although I really only love the first 2 seasons of Homeland. Season 3 was awful then it got a little better for season 4 and 5 but never as good as the first 2.

  32. Kristy says

    I want to know what the Mac people say. I am always up for learning new tricks. I work on a PC at work all day, and I love my MAC at home, but i don’t want to waste my time “figuring it out”. Have a great weekend.
    -Long time follower, first time commenting

  33. Caroline says

    The first season of homeland is the BEST season of television I’ve ever seen!! If you liked breaking bad, you will LOVE homeland!

  34. Kasey says

    Shay, you NEED to watch homeland. It is the exact opposite of my usual type of show which is something along the lines of bachelor meets grey’s anatomy, but it single handedly got my husband and me through the winter. It’s intense and addictive!

  35. Brooke Richardson says

    *If you shake your mouse or wiggle your finger back in on the track pad, your mouse will grow but you can also change in your settings so it won’t do that 🙂
    *Also theres a new attachments browser in Notes that you can flick through to find all the media, websites and other attachments you’ve added to the app from any of your devices. Click on the icon that represents four small squares.
    I’m always finding new things my Mac can do through Google and YouTube 🙂 Enjoy!!!!

  36. Christy says

    POLDARK!! Season 2 is set to air this Fall on PBS – replacement for Downton Abbey. Loved Dr. Thorne! Another good one is Larkrise to Candleford – on Amazon Prime (British Little House on the Prairie – kinda). But Poldark for sure!

  37. Megan Chrencik says

    Game of thrones or homeland! Neither is suitable for kiddos but both are incredible!

  39. Becky says

    Watch Poldark! You will not regret it! The lead actor is swoon worthy and you would love the scenery; takes place in Cornwall England after the revolutionary war. I also watched one episode of Dr. Thorne and was not thrilled at all. BUT I lOVE Mr. Selfridge, watch a couple more, I know you will love it!

  40. Layra says

    Castle was one of my favorite shows! The last season was pretty disappointing and the finale was terrible, but I still recommend! The characters are great and you’ll laugh a lot!

  41. Lisa J says

    I’m hooked on White Collar on Netflix. Matt Bomer is hunky and that show sucks me in! I only have two episodes left and it makes me want to cry.

  43. Susan says

    Call the Midwife is fantastic! I love it and get a little teary-eyed at each episode. House of Cards is excellent too.

  44. Christy Angliss says

    I loved Downton Abby too and miss it terribly. But I also loved Mr Selfridge but not quite as much. I just finished the 1st season of Poldark. Another Masterpiece Theater show. I loved it!! You have to give it a couple of episodes though to fall in love. It’s made doing the dishes for the last 2 weeks so much more enjoyable. Bummer though that the 2nd season doesn’t air until this fall.

  45. Jamie says

    I was told to watch “Prison Break”. Maybe I’m behind the times just starting it last night, but after two episodes I. AM. HOOKED!

  46. Carolyn says

    Hi Shay!
    I also LOVED Downton Abbey and I would recomment Call The Midwife – it’s a BBC show, similar in that it is kind of a period show and it’s all about midwives and their stories of delivering babies, the character are so awesome and the stories are really sweet. It is on Netlix! Have a great weekend!
    Carolyn

  47. Jessica says

    Hi Shay,
    Have you watched Parenthood? Based on other shows you’ve loved I know you will absolutely be obsessed with it. Plus it has Lauren Graham so you can’t go wrong!

  48. Krysta says

    The Blacklist is my favorite show on Netflix. It keeps you on the edge of your seat, sooooo good!

  49. Angela says

    I recently switched to a Mac too and LOVE it! I can’t imagine now going back to a PC! Also bought packing cubes off Amazon- dot & dot brand and they came in a 4 color pack- I have 4 kids to each kid has a color! Super easy for handing out clothes when we arrive at the hotel then they pack up their own when we’re headed home! I highly recommend!

  50. Cat W. says

    Homeland! My husband and I seriously binge watch each time a new season is out…and let me be clear that I typically don’t binge watch bc I value sleep more! 🙂

  51. Laura says

    I completely respect that you want to keep your blog a happy place and comment only on your life but to say you have something sad to share after the attacks in France (which you claim to love) and all the recent tragic events at home (USA) and then share that Downtown Abbey is over is really very crass. There is a way to avoid talking about current events without being insensitive.

  53. Susan says

    Jane the Virgin is AMAZING–funny and feel good. I really liked Witches of East End (only two seasons tho! Boo!). Modern Family is always funny also. Homeland is great–very intense.

  54. Megan says

    Call the Midwife! It’s set in 1950’s East End London. It was suggested to me after watching Downton Abbey 🙂

  55. Ruth says

    Congrats on your new Mac!! I use Mac at home and at my past job for 10 years…now I use pc at work and just shake my head. I find Mac to be so much more user friendly.

  56. Cori Cane says

    All these comments have me wanting to do Homeland next! We’ve been looking for a new one to start. We just did Bloodline…DO. IT. Coach Taylor from FNL is the lead and it’s crazy intense.

  57. Katie says

    Nashville!! I am not a country music fan at all but I am in the first season and am loooving it! 🙂

  58. Heidi B says

    Dr.Thorne was short but very good! Definitely worth watching if you loved Downton Abbey. I haven’t seen Mr. Selfridge yet, but am watching Indian Summers and its pretty good as well. There will never be another Downton Abbey though!

  60. Megan says

    I am recommending The Good Wife for you yo start!!!! I haven’t seen the others mention but he first 4 seasons of the good wife are amazing. (I’m still watching and havent finished yet!!) but I’m loving it. I’m off to read your travel post now.

  61. Kerri says

    Homeland 100%, I can’t wait to watch it each season!!! Also Mad Men was one that I binge watched and really loved! I can’t WAIT for Gilmore Girls revival…I seriously was in a depression when I finished that!

  62. Amy says

    I could not get enough of The Mindy Project! It’s good, funny, and light TV. We also just started The Newsroom on Amazon, and both my husband and I are hooked, which is rare.

  63. Jennifer says

    I second When Calls the Heart. Soooo good! Also Heartland is really good, but they don’t have all the seasons on Netflix yet.
    Also, you need to watch Indian Summers. There has only been 1 season so far and the second one comes out this fall, but it was my Downton Abbey substitute. Very, very good!

  64. Jamie says

    Homeland is a favorite but definitely Parenthood. Same writers and director of Friday Night Lights with so many of the same actors. Plus Lauren Graham as the lead. If you loved her as Loralei wait until you see her as Sarah Braverman. ????

  66. Andrea K. says

    I just finished Parenthood (again) lol. I’ve been watching Homeland since it started and I HIGHLY recommend it, but it is INTENSE. I mean, INTENSE. I just started Frankie and Grace at the recommendation of my mom and it is great! Army Wives is also one of my favorites. Let be real though, I’m just biding time until the new Gilmore Girls comes out 😉

  68. Sarah Shaneyfelt says

    I’m obsessed with When Calls the Heart! It’s on Netflix and it’s a Hallmark Channel show. I saw someone else recommend it and I think you would love it!

  70. Ann Marie Tennison says

    Morning!! Let me just read through all million comments so I can learn how to use this mac of mine! 🙂 THANK YOU in advance! And good gosh- I too LOVED Downton! Excited to see all of your Fall purchases!! BIG HUGS!

  71. Tracy says

    I just finished Cedar Cove on Netflix. It’s a nice, clean series that you can watch and not have to worry if one of your kiddos happens to see a clip!

  72. ashley says

    PBS – Poldark!! Romanic and beautiful!!Love it!! First season is on amazon Prime. Cant wait for the second to come out this fall.

  73. Jen says

    In my opinion Homeland is the best show on tv. Amazing acting. It is just so good. I also love House of Cards and Breaking Bad.

    My new favorite is Bloodline. Kyle Chandler is in it and he is great along with the rest of the cast. It is a great show.

    I liked Downton Abbey but the ones above are all better. Mr. Selfridge was okay but I lost interest in it.

  74. Yolanda McLean says

    Call the Midwife! It is so good!!!

    I recommended it to my friend and she loved it too!

  75. Krystal says

    Bloodline! Love me some Kyle Chandler. The language is awful but the storyline is so good, my husband likes it even better than House of Cards!

  77. Samantha says

    Game of Thrones is awesome because you just never know what’s going to happen next, Sons of Anarchy was one I didn’t think I would like at all, but got sucked into binge watching (once you get past the whole biker-gang lifestyle), Man In the High Castle is an Amazon Video original if you’re a member of Prime … there’s only one season so far, but it is terrific. Broadchurch, Peaky Blinders and Bloodline were good. My husband and I are watching a Netflix show called Life, and we like it, too. Like you, I LOVED Downton Abbey and Breaking Bad. Right now I’m binging Mad Men but I think I’m gonna take everyone’s advice and watch Homeland next. I watched the trailer for the first season and it looks pretty trhilling!

  78. Karen says

    I’m going to reach WAAAY back. Did you ever watch Alias? I’ll admit it gets “hokey” in latter seasons, but the main characters are so good & you care about them so much. That helped me overlook some of that. It’s probably (& let’s add Parenthood & Friends) all time favorite shows! Just starting Gilmore Girls.

  79. Mandi S says

    Wow so many great shows listed! I have to agree with one person that said Pretty Little Liars! Did not think I would like it but I am hooked! Also, for a lighthearted/funny little show that is only 4 seasons…Hart of Dixie. Very cute show! I’m watching it now on Netflix

  80. Abby says

    I would highly recommend When Calls The Heart! There are only a couple seasons on Netflix, but enough to catch up and record on your tv. Since I’m a college student, I don’t have tv so I’m just sitting here waiting for it to get back on Netflix! I also second One Tree Hill! I watched all nine seasons in like 3 or so weeks. I CRIED throughout a bunch. It’s super heart warming but has plenty enough drama. Also, I’m not sure if you’ve watched it but I would also highly recommend Call The Midwife. It was a great show for my friends and me after we finished downtown abbey. I believe it’s still running on tv but they have a lot of episodes on Netflix and Hulu! Also, Once Upon A Time is awesome! I love that it connects so many fairytale sand is a safe show that if your kids walk in, they might start frisking out about Elsa or Belle or Merida! So good!

    So in summary: When Calls The Heart, One Tree Hill, Call The Midwife, and Once Upon A Time. Watch them!!

  83. Kaytlin says

    Love Macs!! The most common keyboard shortcuts I use are the Exposé key (shares with the F3 button at top of keyboard) this shows all the windows you’re working on so you can switch among them when needed; Command + W to close a window; Command + right arrow to move the cursor to the end of a line in the sentence; Command + Shift + Esc in the rare instances I need to force quit a program because it froze up. Hope you love it!

  84. Natalie says

    If you don’t mind a little language, then Detectorists (it’s on Acorn) is really great. It has that dry British humor that is so wonderful. There are only two series so far. Doc Martin is also pretty good. Have yall watched the Great British Baking Show yet???

  85. Kelly S. says

    Homeland is awesome, but I also suggest White Collar (so good, and pretty clean) and Suits (love it and binge when I’m on the treadmill). But Upstairs Downstairs is a great one to watch right after D. Abbey, because you can at least get the same era and style of a show, before it’s all over FOREVER. 🙂 We also highly suggest OJ Made in America (only 6 shows) and we binged in 2 days, because it is crazy and sucks you right in.

  86. Natalie says

    Oooooo one more if you like quirky British shows, but you would have to order it. Some episodes used to be on YouTube. It’s called Clatterford over here but was Jam and Jerusalem in the UK. Kate Rusby’s music is all throughout and makes it extra great! If you’ve never heard of Kate Rusby, you have to look her up. She sings all sorts of wonderful (and sometimes sad) traditional English songs. Folksy, but beautiful.

  87. Merideth says

    Homeland is my very favorite show! My husband and I always looked forward to Sunday nights after putting the kids to bed to tune in. Highly recommend! Also, I’d love to hear anything you might share regarding your new MacBook….I have one on order at my office to arrive next month. Enjoy your weekend!

  88. Kristen levangie says

    Homeland for sure! One quick question, any tips on how to struggle with jet lagget kids? Hiw do yiu do it when you travel? We returned from hawaii 3 days ago and I still can’t get my 6 yr old back on track!

    • Mix and Match Mama says

      Go back to your normal routine! I wake my kids up at normal times, put them to bed at normal times, don’t do long naps…routine!

  89. serisblog.com says

    If you want something funny, I vote The Office! And I’m sure you know that Gilmore Girls is returning with reunion episodes this Fall! So excited!

    And a quick little Mac trick- if you click the keys: shift,command,4 all at the same time, you can screenshot anything on your screen! It can be helpful at times.

  90. Kelsey says

    Blue Bloods & Entourage are definitely favorites in our house! Friday Night Lights, House of Cards (sometimes it’s too much raunchy for me but it’s okay), Reign (on the CW but since you like history it’s actually pretty good).
    Kelsey
    http://www.thepeacockroost.com

  91. Ruth says

    I’m in the middle of binge watching Downton Abbey….it is soooo good!!! Im sure I’ll have a case of end of series blues!! Longmire got me hooked instantly…I really recommend it!!

  94. Stephanie says

    Castle is a must watch TV show! We loved it when it was on, and own all of the seasons (except last one) on DVD/BlueRay.

  95. Katie says

    Homeland is the BEST show. Alongside Parenthood, it’s my top. It’s so fast to watch – only 12ish episodes per season and you will be hooked IMMEDIATELY! 🙂

  97. Catherine Prell says

    No one has recommended Sherlock — soooooooo good! The Benedict Cumberbatch one — it’s sooooooo good, and I would never ever have thought I would like a show like that!

    I also just finished Downton and I’m still so sad! But love the way it ended. I also read that Julian Fellowes is considering a movie!! <3 I would LOVE that! I love thinking that Lady Mary and Donk (ha!) and all the others are still living their lives out in the Abbey 😉 I'd like to peek in on them sometime! (I'm crazy, I know)

    From your readers' recommendations, I think I'm going to check out Homeland next! 🙂

    • Christy says

      YES! Can’t wait for the new season! Endeavour is another good PBS detective series.

  98. Sherrie Moore says

    1. House of Cards 2. Homeland 3.Outlander (This is my current binge and I am loving it!!)

  99. Sandi says

    The Midwife!!!!!! So good 🙂 Packing cubes are the best, each family member can have their own colour.

  102. Emma Heitmeyer says

    Bloodline is SO good – Just finished it and found myself staying up an hour later than norm, just to fit in an extra episode. Since it’s a Netflix original, they are hour-long episodes, which makes me extra happy 🙂

  103. Kylie says

    Private practice is SO good! It has some of the same characters from greys anatomy! Lipstick jungle is really good too! Brooke Sheilds is in it!

  104. Kate says

    So sad to be done with Downton. If you want something similarly lovely and witty, check out The Paradise. It’s way better than Selfridge but a similar concept. (I also enjoyed Dr. Thorne but it was awfully predictable!)

    If you want something modern day, Madam Secretary is my latest obsession! SO GOOD.

  105. Priscilla says

    I loved Mr. Selfridge. Another great PBS show is CALL THE MIDWIFE. I cry at the end of just about every episode. Very touching. Castle is cute. Love the connection between the characters.

  106. Brittany LaFleur says

    I think Castle is a good one to watch or maybe Scandal? I just binge watched the entire 5th season in a week. It’s is a good one!

  109. Kelli {A Deeper Joy} says

    I think you’ll like the Macbook A LOT once you get used to it. At first it’s a bit frustrating but there are so many shortcuts and features that a PC won’t have. Learn the strokes with your fingers like scrolling with 2 fingers and the other things you can do with swiping 3 or 4 fingers in different directions. Experiment with expose and corners in your Settings and Preferences.

  111. Karen says

    Shay, I enjoy following your blog – you do such a great job. I agree with Andrew, Homeland is a great show. Blue Bloods also gets a big vote from me. I am a binge watcher as well during my lunch hour at work and one show which is very old but I highly recommend is Brothers and Sisters. Sally Field plays the lead role as Mom and I just really enjoyed this show. I also watched Mr. Selfridge and really enjoyed it because the show touched on a lot about why and how department stores do what they do and how they have evolved over the years – history and drama! Who could ask for more?

  112. Cortny Anderson says

    Parenthood parenthood parenthood. I started watching it when I brought my baby home from the hospital during those first few sleepy weeks and I was a hormonal mess! Ha! It’s such a good show! And clean! When we finished it we were so sad! Now we have moved on to Friday Night lights. It’s a wonderful show for couples!
    Call the midwife is also wonderful!!!

  113. Sara says

    Homeland, Bloodline, The Affair, House of Cards and Grace and Frankie are all excellent!

  114. Leah Garry says

    Currently watching Bloodline and it is creepy good!! If you like deep, dark characters, it will suck you in. The Killing on Netflix is another darker show that was very addicting. We watched all 4 seasons in a month which is a record for us. But our absolute favorite Netflix show of all time is Mad Men. The characters have a lot of depth and the acting is superb. Plus that era (60’s) is really fun in terms of dress, mannerisms, roles, etc. We watched Castle over the years on ABC and it started off strong but after the first few seasons it became too predictable. I wouldn’t waste the time on that one.

  116. brett says

    Watch The Mindy Project! It’s on Hulu and it’s so good, laugh out loud funny! But Homeland is amazing too- maybe the best show on television! My Mac tip is really basic but I use it all the time. If you hit command and then space bar it brings up a bar for spotlight search and you can just type in whatever you’re looking for and hit enter and it opens it. It also functions as a calculator – so command, space bar, and then whatever math you are doing. 🙂 I love keyboard shortcuts and use this one a lot!

  117. Gina says

    My husband and I are binge watching Suits. It’s on Amazon Prime and it’s great! I thought it was all done but apparently season 6 just started or is starting soon. But it’s so good! And I agree that Parenthood and Homeland are great ones to watch, too!

  118. Christy says

    I LOVED Homeland, it’s a MUST see. I’m not sure if you ever watched Prison Break, but that’s a good one too. 🙂

    I would LOVE for you to do a post on what your back to school essentials are for your kiddos. My daughter is going to Kindergarten this year and I would love to know what you consider as essentials for back to school. Thank you!!!!

  120. Sasha Posey says

    Watch Castle, Psych, and Chuck! So good and light hearted and the characters are great! I guess I have a thing for one-word TV shows!

  121. Jennifer says

    We loved Castle! We also loved 24. I’m currently binge watching Gilmore Girls. I’m almost to season 5 and I started the end of June. Eeeeek! Btw, I think you should share what you ordered from the Anniversary Sale right now. I can’t wait! 🙂

  122. Genevieve Graham says

    I LOVED Downton and am actually re-watching it right now;) For a very high suspense kind of show I would go with your husband’s recommendation of “Homeland”. I have a few other reccs that fall under that similar category too: Bloodline (which I know is mentioned a lot in your comments- just a side note for a fellow FNL watcher…its hard to watch Coach T in this role lol bc u want to protect him!), I just started watching reruns of “The Americans” on FX and then also there is a show called “Billions” on Showtime which is really great but only one season in. ha- sorry for the long post! have a great weekend! gg

  123. Emma D says

    Homeland is amazing (and I’m Canadian!). Also good: The Good Wife, Suits, Blue Bloods.

  124. Hannah H says

    I have to say, now that you’ve converted to Mac, you won’t go back! 😉 I think you will LOVE it. I love love love how simple Mac’s are to use, and I am not a very tech person at all! I am still pumped about your packing post. LIFE CHANGING. Such a smart system!!

  125. Sandy Manning says

    The best part of a Mac is you probably won’t even need help! Been a Mac family since 1987! Once you go Mac you never go back.

  126. Jessica Smedley says

    You need to watch Poldark. There is only 2 season so far, but is by far the best show I have watched in a long time!! I loved it more then downtown abbey, and that is saying something since I want to name all my baby girls Violet, Mary, Edith, as Sybil, Cora, and Daisy hah!

  127. Sasha says

    For sure Mr. Selfridge! Also some other PBS greats are: Crimson Field, Call the Midwife, Grantchester, Endeavor, Poldark (amazing!), Mercy Street, Indian Summers, Wolf Hall, Home Fires, Inspector Lewis, The Paradise, Wallander, & Upstairs, Downstairs! Enjoy!

  128. Jen says

    Bloodline! Watching it now and totally hooked. Also, One Tree Hill is so addicting- I watched one episode and was hooked.

  130. Cath says

    My Netflix obsessions are Bloodline — so, so good. Waiting desperately for season 3. Watching House of Cards at the moment which is pretty good too. Call the Midwives is completely wonderful — I think because it is set in the era and place where my grandfather lived. Even my husband watches — he swears it’s just to keep me company, but I don’t think so.

  131. Cheryl says

    The Americans is one of the best dramas on TV. It gets better each season and essentially is about family. The Good Wife is fun to watch while working.

    The Americans for sure!!

  132. Emily says

    Lady, I am so excited for you & your new Macbook!!!!! My husband “converted” me years ago – first with a Macbook, then an iPhone, etc etc etc. I love that everything is connected, especially when I’m grocery shopping and have left my list on my computer, all I have to do is pull it up on my phone. (Wow, so apparently my husband also turned me into a geek too) Happy weekending!

  133. Sarah says

    Poldark definitely helped me through my Downton Abbey withdrawals. When Calls the Heart is great as well. And for binge watching Orphan Black is completely addictive.

  134. Erin says

    After I finished downtown only 2 shows came close to filling the hole in my heart-Poldark and Granchester. Watch now and thank me later! ????

  135. Kathy maas says

    Binge watch…..they just finished season 2 on starz…one word. OUTLANDER!!!!
    I envy anyone who hasn’t seen an episode. Makes me want to go to Scotland ????.
    You can stream on iPad.

  136. Amy says

    I miss Downton too! You should try the Downton Abbey pajamas from Pajamagrams! They feel like “buttah”!

  137. Kami G. says

    My hubby & I do a lot of binge watching after the kids go to bed. Favorites are Breaking Bad, Americans, Justified, Downton, Homeland, House of Cards, Game of Thrones, Mad Men, Sopranos, Good Wife, Scandal, The Fall, Happy Valley, Bloodline and our all time fave is Sons of Anarchy.

  138. Hilary says

    Parenthood! It is such a realistic, genuine, funny, sad, joyful, authentic portrayal of family life

  139. Camris says

    Ohhhh Shay! I’m a binge watching queen and have SO many suggestions for you! You must must MUST watch The Office. It is my absolute FAV show and it’s like my “Frasier”, meaning that I watch an episode every night to wind down. It’s a feel good show and hilarious. I’d also recommend Parks and Rec, Parenthood, Mindy Project (Hulu), Friends, and another one of my FAVs is Once Upon a Time. It’s on ABC on Sunday nights and season 6 will start in September! They have Seasons 1-4 available on Netflix and season 5 on Hulu. That’s one Kensington might like too. It’s a feel good show! Also for any mac tips I’d recommend searching “macbook” on Buzzfeed, they have a lot of articles with tips and tricks!

  140. Pat F. says

    I still am missing Downton Abbey; what a top notch and amazing program! I absolutely loved Mr. Selfridge – in fact, I loved it so much I just bought all four seasons! I really enjoy period pieces and loved the fact that Mr. Selfridge is based on an actual person, although the series embellishes some of the actual stories of his life.

  141. Kristin says

    I am binge watching Nashville right now and love it. Also loves suits and one tree hill. I need to watch downtown abbey

  142. kelli says

    We love The Americans! And I’m a huge Mac fanatic – everything is so much easier and all tied together (the watch, the phone, the computer – love that everything makes sense together!). 🙂

  145. Stephanie Phoebe says

    You must watch Castle! It is my favorite show of all time! Great writing, great relationships, inside jokes, and some interwoven storylines. It’s the perfect balance of drama and comedy. Love! Love! Love!

  147. Kelli says

    I recommend Homeland or Bloodline. Homeland is really intense and there’s lots of violence. Don’t watch it right before you go to bed! Bloodline is great as well. It starts off slow and Kyle Chandler is NOTHING like Coach Taylor from FNL, so keep that in mind lol.

  148. Corbie says

    Poldark!!!! Someone else said it and I hands down say you MUST WATCH THIS!! Download at least the first episode from Amazon. Its free. It is PBS just like Downtown Abby. Randy and our son Jack LOVED to watch this with me. SO GOOD!!

  149. Kelly Maciejewski says

    THE BLACKLIST!!! James Spader is soooo good in this role, and it was one that my husband and I enjoyed watching together!

  150. Ana Bland says

    My favorite show at the moment is Outlander. It’s an obsession, actually. The time, the setting, the music, the characters, the history – it’s all great. I learned about it while watching Sunday Morning and I knew I had to know what I was all about. It’s an amazing story and I am happy to see how close to the books they’re keeping it. It’s on STARZ, by the way, but if you are not a STARZ subscriber, do not panic, you can watch the first season (16 episodes) for free with your Amazon Prime account through Amazon Video and see how you like it, but I am positive you’re going to love it. I am actually surprised I haven’t heard more about it because from what I’ve heard, it’s a total hit. I ordered the first four books (there’s 8 out right now and they’re working on a 9th one) and they’re absolute page turners! Season 2 just concluded last week so you still have time to get all caught up!

  151. Chrystianne says

    I hope that once you get more used to your MacBook you will write a little review for us the way you did for the Apple Watch. I desperately need a new computer and really want a MacBook, except I’m scared ????

  152. Jennifer says

    I always forget about Army Wives because I watched it so long ago, but it is one of my all time favorites. The characters will become like your best friends!

  153. Kim says

    Doctor Thorne was ok and it’s only four episodes, so it’s not a big commitment. But you can correctly predict what’s going to happen just by the first episode. Like others, I also like Jane the Virgin but I think it’s one you have to actually sit down and watch, they do a lot of typing and things on the screen. If you’re more just listening while doing other things, it might be hard to get.

  154. Tara Skrla says

    I am a TV junky and my DVR is always full but here are some of my favorites:
    West Wing (one of the best written shows I’ve ever watched), Bloodline, Game of Thrones, White Collar, Castle (the first few season where SO GOOD), any of the Chicago shows – Chicago Fire, PD, and Med, How to Get Away with Murder, Bones, NCIS, Criminal Minds, Blacklist, New Girl, The Killing (Netflix series), Daredevil, Army Wives, and Outlander.

  155. Janey Polk says

    BROADCHURCH! There are 2 seasons on Netflix and both are so good! It’s a modern day mystery set in Scotland in a town full of secrets 🙂 ! So good that you will have to keep pressing play!

  156. Meredith says

    Some of my favorites are the following: House of Cards, Prison Break, The Paradise (British, amazing, must watch!!), Cedar Cove (good ole Hallmark but actually interesting and beautiful setting in BC), Unreal (on Hulu), The Path (Hulu), Jane the Virgin, and I’m probably forgetting some more but sounds like you have a lot of suggestions. 😉 I need to check out Homeland after everyone’s comments about it! I love a new show!!

  157. Elise Welch says

    Chuck and When Calls the Heart (it a Hallmark TV show, so it’s cheesy but cute)! I love my Mac computer! It is so nice to have it synced up with my other Apple devices. I can airdrop things to my computer without internet and write in the notebook and it is on both devices. Love, love, love!