Happy Happy What’s Up Wednesday !
It’s Halloween Eve!!
We. Are. So. Ready.
Now, if you’re new to WUW, on the last Wednesday of every month, Sheaffer and I host this little linky party where we share what’s going on with us right now. It’s a little food, a little family, a little what we’re wearing, a little what we’re doing, a little what we’re watching and a little bit of everything else all in one post. I’m really excited because I feel like this month’s post has loads of fun stuff! Let’s get started with…
1: WHAT WE’RE EATING THIS WEEK:
We are enjoying as many festive recipes as we can!! From my Spooky Spaghetti to my Ghoul-Ash, I have loads of fun dinner ideas for your Halloween HERE.
2. WHAT I’M REMINISCING ABOUT:
Well, there’s this.
She was 6 weeks old.
Look at that sweet little baby mouth.
Someone hold me.
3: WHAT I’M LOVING:
A month or so ago, one of you sweet readers suggested I buy Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza for my kids and oh my gosh! We’re obsessed! Even Andrew and I have played just each other. Ha! It’s really a fun little card game that people of all ages can play. It would be a great stocking stuffer this year!!
Also, our speech therapist knows how much we love Spot It, so guess what we’ve been borrowing from her for the last three weeks…
…we’re obsessed with holiday Spot it! All four kids having been playing it like crazy. Both of these games are great to take when we go out too (like to doctor visits, restaurants, etc) because they’re small and can be played by as many or as little people as you want/have (and both would make great little Christmas gifts too!).
4: WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO:
We’ve been watching #allthehallmarkchristmasmovies!! Do you guys use this…
…it’s their checklist app so that you can make sure you’re not missing any of the movies. Um, it’s fantastic. We’ve been watching and checking every day!
5: WHAT I’M DREADING:
We have a lot of crazy things happening between now and the end of the year. Some things are fun, some are not fun, some I will share, some I will keep to myself, but it’s a lot. My plate feels really full of some great things and some less than great things too…BUT, I know that the crazy will pass. Some seasons are just more complicated than others and right now, I’m in one of those.
6: WHAT I’M WORKING ON:
Lists, lists and more lists.
I don’t know about you, but when things get crazy, I get organized, I clean, I purge, and I make a list. Or two. Or twelve. Plus, with the holidays coming up, I always make lists for that stuff too. I feel like I have all the lists going on right now to hopefully give me peace of mind and keep us organized.
WHAT I’M EXCITED ABOUT:
Big fun heading our way!! I love spending time with my besties, and we have all sorts of fun things coming up!
8: WHAT I’M WATCHING/READING:
Other than Hallmark movies, I haven’t been watching anything lately, but I have been reading!! If you missed my OCTOBER BOOK REVIEW on Monday, make sure you read it HERE. Don’t forget to read the comment section!! There are so many new and wonderful recs in there!!
9: WHAT I’M LISTENING TO:
Please see above.
Hallmark movies.
Hallmark movies.
Hallmark movies.
10: WHAT I’M WEARING:
The color of this sweater is so PRETTY!!! It’s tunic length, so on this day, I had it paired with my jeans, but next time, I’m wearing it with my faux-leather leggings and booties!!
Hello, cozy!! I walked by my local Abercrombie and saw this sweater in the window. How cute is it?! I can’t tell you the last time I bought something for myself at Abercrombie, but I loved this one so much that I also went online and bought this one too…
…adorable, right? The sizing was TTS for me! I bought both in xsmall.
And a few more cozy pieces for your Wednesday…
…this fleece lined jacket that I’ve been loving so much is now available in a whole slew of new colors!! You can check them out HERE.
And ’tis the season to keep your head warm! I love me a warm hat…
…how pretty are these?! The pink, the orange and the burgundy make me happy. All three styles come in multiple colors, but these bold ones spoke to me.
11: WHAT I’M DOING THIS WEEKEND:
Anyone else?! 😉
12: WHAT I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT MONTH:
Ohhhh! Fun things ahead in November!! I’m looking forward to all of that stuff!
13: WHAT ELSE IS NEW:
Nothing else! It’s Halloween Eve, so I better get going! I hope you all have a wonderful Wednesday!! If you blogged WUW with us, please link up below! Have the best day, friends! xo
Holley@BeeSimplyOrganized.com says
So fun! I didn’t know they had an app to check off the movies you watch! YAY! Downloading now! I will say some prayers for you this month my friend.
grace says
Good morning!
I would love to know maybe your top 3 favorite Hallmark Christmas movies of all-time and Kensington’s too! We will watch all the new ones but was wondering, if you’ve been watching for years, which ones you liked best. Thanks!!
Also, I wanted to send you this quote since you mentioned some not so fun stuff coming up. It gives me some solace during those times.
“Life is amazing. And then it’s awful. And then it’s amazing again. And in between the amazing and the awful, it’s ordinary and mundane and routine. Breathe in the amazing, hold on through the awful, and relax and exhale during the ordinary. That’s just living, heart-breaking, soul-healing, amazing, awful, ordinary life. And it’s breathtakingly beautiful.” – L.R. Knost
All the best to you and your family over these next few months.
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you so much, Grace!! This means more than you know. xo
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
I haven’t been to Abercrombie in ages – I always forget that they have great pieces for all ages, not just for teens! Great post, Shay! ?✨
–
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Erika Slaughter says
EEEEEKKKK!!!! The GHOUL-ASH is happening tonight at my house! Happy Halloween Eve, Friend!!
Narci says
Oh those beanie hats are so cute!! Love all three of them!
Kellee says
My Christmas tree has been up since October 19th! I love Hallmark Christmas Movies!
Mix and Match Mama says
You and I should be best friends. xo
Kristy S. says
I always love learning about new family games, I ordered Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza based on your recommendation. You meantioned that just you & Andrew play. I opened the directions & it says minimum 3 players. I’m just curious how do you adapt the rules of playing for just 2 people? Because I’m very interested in playing with just 2 people! Thanks so much!
Mix and Match Mama says
I think it’s super easy to play with only two people. My kids do it all the time too.
Sheaffer Sims says
Give me all the cozy clothes! That pullover and those beanies are so cute!!!
kathy says
Thinking of you during this crazy time. You’re right -it will pass.
I always feel happy reading your blog and Sheaffer’s this time of year. You girls always have so many fun things planned.
Have a blessed day!
Jill says
I just bought that same checked sweatshirt from Abercrombie- I bought the cream/green one last year and wore it over and over! Thanks for the game suggestions…we’re always on the hunt for new ones. Have a great day!
Sarah Dizard says
Finally bought the leggings! Absolutely
Love the pink fleece, I hope it restocks.
Prayers for you and your family!! You are an amazing mom and I love your positivity and perspective.
Sarah
Francesca says
Lists are good. I need to make more… Everyday on the way to work my husband asks what’s on the list and I’m like ??♀️??♀️??♀️?? Haha! Time to get organized!!
Dorey says
Abercrombie is back! (for us!) I’ve gotten a few really cute things over the past year– mostly basics like a thermal long sleeve and a sweatshirt but also a couple cute blouses. My mom thinks its hilarious
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says
That game sounds so cute! I have to get it for my goddaughter. Loving all your cozy sweaters and you and K’s enthusiasm for Hallmark movies! Have the best Halloween night like I know you guys will!
xo
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams
Melanie says
I love Hallmark movies and am so glad there are 2 channels full of them. This year I realized that Lifetime has Christmas movies, also. I know it is not the first year, but, it is the first year that I have known about it. So, now I have even more to watch…..my DVR is full, LOL.
Mix and Match Mama says
I haven’t watched many of theirs, but the ones I have seen are great!
Elspeth says
What a holiday filled post, wishing you prayers as you enter a busy season of life. You got this mama!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Beth Valenta says
The holidays are simply the best for the list makers! I have 5 working at this moment. 🙂
Melissa Meckley says
Have you read any of the Christmas theme books that Hallmark releases through Hallmark publishing? I’m tempted to read one but wasn’t sure if they would be as goodwill as the Christmas movies.
Mix and Match Mama says
I don’t think I have!!!
Emily R. says
One of my four-year-old girl twins is facing some medical issues and we’re spending lots of time in the doctors offices and getting tests done and I now carry a little Spot It game in my purse. Thank you so much for sharing your ideas! Praying for your little Ashby ♥️♥️
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s such a great little game for hand/eye coordination, vocabulary, articulation, concentration…so great!
Heather says
Costco has a fun family card game Christmas pack this year that you guys might LOVE! Happy shopping!
TIFFANY says
where can i find that hallmark blanket??
Mix and Match Mama says
https://www.etsy.com/listing/710199732/hallmark-christmas-movie-watching?ref=hp_rv-5
Bethany says
Love those cozy jackets!
P.S.-I always organize, make lists, and purge when I feel like life is chaotic or things are happening that I have no control over.I feel like the organizing and purging helps me have “control” over something. Prayers. XO
Mix and Match Mama says
Yup, me too.
Mary says
Have a great time in Boston with your girls next week!! I’m sure you’ll be the perfect tour guide!!
Ashley says
I just ordered that Abercrombie fleece in green and thought – wow when was the last time I bought something from this store?? Looked too cozy to pass up!
Mix and Match Mama says
RIGHT?! My answer, when I was 19.
Karen says
Shay, gosh, I’m sorry to hear that you’re in the season you’re in. But sometimes, those seem the sweetest when it comes to how close the Lord is. I hope that’s your experience.
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you, Karen. xo
Kristine W says
Christmas coming out of the attic this weekend. Watching Hallmark movies and so excited to find that Sirius XM station 70 is playing Christmas music. I started using that app last year. It’s helpful. Loved your fun post.
Mix and Match Mama says
It is?! Good to know!!!!
Leah Reinemund says
All your babies are gorgeous but OMG Kensington has turned into the most beautiful young lady! Truly a mini Shea!
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you, Leah!
Shelly says
You have me wanting all the coats! It’s so cold here today which is rare. I just can’t get over how quickly K is changing lately! So grown up. Happy Halloween!
Lauren says
Sending a virtual hug on all the crazy things you put in your dreading section! I know that can feel scary and overwhelming so will pray for you and hope that it all passes smoothly and easily for you. XO
Erin Moore says
Thank you so much for the game rec’s! I have 3 girls – 12, 8 and 4 and it’s hard to find games we all can play (I am so tired of Yeti in my Spaghetti!) Also I immediately ordered Spot It after you saying it was suggested by your ST. My middle daughter has Down syndrome and speech is where she struggles the most. I would love to seen any other games or tools that have been suggested! Thanks!
Carolyn Vassallo says
The Shulls should try the dice game, Left Center Right! So fun and easily portable as well!
Mix and Match Mama says
Looking it up now!! Thank you!
Brooke k. says
Love Left, Right, Center! I teach first grade and the kids love playing it at recess but we started playing it as a family game at Christmas gatherings.
Carol says
When I am in the middle of a stressful period, I tackle things I can control. Last year, my husband was in the middle of a potential new ministry opportunity that led us to relocate. We waited to see if we would get the call, sold our house, bought a house, said goodbye to people who were like family, and started to acclimate into a brand-new place of service. As I was dealing with the uncertainty, I KonMari’d my entire house–drawers, closets, cabinets–you name it. My husband was afraid I would KonMari him right out of the house. My life was in chaos, but darnit, my towels were perfectly folded and lined up like little soldiers in my linen closet! Praying for you.
Mix and Match Mama says
Your comment was reassuring and made me LOL. Thank you, Carol!
Tanya says
Thinking of you during this busy and tough season that you’re in and praying all will be resolved according to God’s will. ” If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. ” Ps 139:9-10
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you for the scripture. xoxo
Kari says
Have you checked out the love your melon warm fuzzy hats? So adorable and for a good cause too. Love your melon has a Disney line.
Mix and Match Mama says
A Disney line? Going to check right now!!
colleen T says
I. Love. Lists. And this time of year there are PLENTY to be made. Hope you have a great Halloween. I have never watched a Hallmark movie (AHH) but have 3 daughters, love the holiday season and would love to start. Do you think 8 is too young to watch the movies or are they family appropriate? How do I know which ones to start with? Are they rated anywhere or a certain actor you follow?
Mix and Match Mama says
The Hallmark movies are VERY family friendly!! Ashby loves them too!
kara says
I agree with an above comment…would love to hear suggestions on Christmas Hallmark movies. There are soooo many!
Thanks in advance!
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m starting a little list now!! Stay tuned 🙂 .
Marcela Klassen says
So first off, baby Kensington! OMG, she really has grown up! I also tried your three-bean chili and it was delicious! Thanks for the recipe. On another note, I totally 100% understand the ‘hard’ season. We recently moved to the Irving area and it’s honestly been nothing but difficult. However, a verse that came to mind in the midst of this hardship was James 1:2-3 “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything”. My first thought, how can I consider all these things pure joy? Are you kidding me? When looking back at every single thing that’s been rough or gone wrong God has been there through & through and proven himself that he will never leave or forsake us. I suppose through these hardships we gain wisdom, a closer relationship with Him, and an ability to help others going through similar circumstances. I suppose that enough is considered to be joyful as we are growing exactly how He needs us to be.
Anyway, that’s probably the longest comment in history of blogging. I hope this encourages you to push through and at the end of the tunnel you can say “it is well with my soul”.
Have a great time trick or treating!
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you, Marcela!!! This means a lot! Did you know that I was from Irving??? Born and raised 🙂 .
M Parker says
That Captain Underpants costume is hilarious! I hadn’t seen that one before. I am a big fan of Spot It! too. I love that it is so easy to take & play anywhere. Also, thanks for head up about the Hallmark Checklist app.
Leslie S says
This is a crazy season for me too – I love what you said about the fun and the not so fun. We are moving shortly after Christmas and I feel like I e shut down with the stress – after reading this and the comments section I’m energized and ready to Konmari as I pack!. Thankyou for sharing (some of) your life, your family and your faith here.
I’ve finally, after 12 years, convinced my husband to let me put up Christmas decor before thanksgiving – I’m, beyond excited!! I’m downloading that hallmark app NOW. And I just bought the card games! I get the best ideas from your blog, and the reader comments too!
Mix and Match Mama says
Awe!!! Thank you!! Enjoy that tree 🙂 .
Amanda @ That Inspired Chick says
You are a girl after my own heart, friend! Christmas movies, cozy pullovers, cute kids. Love it all!
That Inspired Chick
Kelly Lane Nation says
I would also love to hear your movie suggestions! I typically like the ones with famous actors and a slightly less predictable story line. Also, not sure what trials you are facing but just know that you are a wonderful Christian voice in the midst of all the internet chaos and I look forward to hearing about your life every week! Hugs!
Kristen says
Hello-
Madeley’s hair might beat Smith’s costume. My family has a lot of board games. Let me know if you ever want me to write up some suggestions by age category.
-Kristen
Gina says
Shay – May the Lord’s peace and blessings comfort you and your family.
Patti Gardner says
What a fun little link party this is! I discovered it through Rebecca Jo. I hope to join in myself.
Thank you for hosting!!
Oh, and yes, yes, yes to Hallmark movies! I just came home from visiting my parents, and my mom and I enjoyed several Hallmark Christmas movies. Always so fun!!
Blessings,
Patti @ This Beautiful Life
Nicole says
Love the cozy pullover and I added the card game to my 5 year olds gift wish list!
This is a random question, but the picture with you and your girlfriends, where is your moto jacket from? I’ve been looking for a good one!! Thank you!
Mix and Match Mama says
Nordstrom!! It’s from last year but still in stock!
Mother of 3 says
We love Spot it! It’s such a fun game. I love Christmas movies but I really can’t start watching them until after Thanksgiving dinner.. I’m not sure exactly why I feel that way but something about taking it just one holiday at a time makes me feel less rushed and anxious.
Olivia McClaren says
I want to respect your privacy, but I do hope that you choose to share some of your struggles. Your life appears picture-perfect, and as someone who does not have a perfect life and has had to deal with a lot of struggles this past year – health scare with my husband, cancer in our immediate family, it has been hard and I know that a lot of people are going through really hard things and would love to hear your struggles. I think it would make you more relatable and would honestly would help so many people. Sometimes, although I love your blog, it makes me feel badly about my life bc yours seems so perfect.
Mix and Match Mama says
Less than perfect, for sure. Over the years, I have been able to share about infertility, the long waiting to adopt, braces and myofunctional therapy as an adult, gum graft surgeries, Klippel Trenaunay, the death of a best friend and more that has been hard, but many things I’ve had to keep to myself as I can’t share the struggles and hardships of loved ones. Things affect my family just like everyone else’s (from health issues to divorce, mental health and so much more), but if wouldn’t be fair to my loved ones to share that here. Please know it happens over here though too.
Cate says
Well said. Some stories are not yours to share . . .
Olivia McClaren says
I agree with that and totally respect that… I guess what I meant was more “share your feelings” instead of actual events or specifics. You seem like such an amazing person and I would love to know how your mind navigates hard things – do you get anxious, sad, stay positive? I look up to you and would love to see how you navigate these things bc you are an inspiration to me!! Sorry, I wasn’t trying to be nosy and get specific information or scenarios – was more wondering how you feel and navigate through hardships. Lots of love
Mix and Match Mama says
You weren’t at all! Sometimes though, hard feelings need context, so if I can’t give you the context, I don’t want to bring it up. That being said, Jesus is always how I navigate the hard seasons. I use him to navigate the good seasons too, but geez, I find myself in my Bible more and in prayer more when life has me down.
Nicole says
Sometimes it’s just nice to know you’re appreciated and what you’re doing is worth it all…Shay, you have brought so much light and joy into my little world! I grew up in a super broken home, full of alcoholism, drugs, divorce…just dark, and praise Jesus I’m doing a new thing with my own family now! It’s the fun little (but end up being big) things that you’ve taught me to celebrate and share with my kids. You’re like the big sister I never had, teaching me and showing me by example how to be a mom who celebrates each day, gets busy in the kitchen with my kids, and create traditions that I hope they’ll do with their own kids one day. Thank you for pressing on and showing up for us. You are such a blessing and light to all of us! xo
Mix and Match Mama says
Well, this right here made my morning. God bless you and your precious family, Nicole. xo
Stephanie F Sanders says
I love those A&F fleece’s! I own 2 and I’m almost 50!
Mix and Match Mama says
Love this!!
Gina says
Shay I love the crossbody purse you are wearing in the picture with you and your girlfriends. Is it from Nordstrom? Thanks
Mix and Match Mama says
No, it’s from YSL!
Jen says
Did you get that Nordstrom jacket in S or XS? Reading the reviews and I can’t decide! Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
xsmall!
Andrea says
As always, love this post!! The Abercrombie zip cozy pullover you’re wearing looks light pink, yes? I was sad when I went online and pink wasn’t a color option! I just wanted to confirm the color, because I will check in store ? Thanks and have a great movie watching weekend!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes! Keep checking back online too because I did see it yesterday!
Kristen says
Kensington is looking SO GROWN UP! When did that happen??
Mix and Match Mama says
Overnight!!! (Insert me sobbing here!!!)
Erica Werner says
You are such an inspiration. Thank you for all you do- your positive spin on life and all it’s seasons. God is using you in mighty ways. You truly are letting your light shine! It shines bright for all to see ??? God bless you and your family!