I blinked and suddenly, April is already coming to an end. It seriously feels like the month just started yesterday and yet here we are just days away from May. Between being on-call for jury duty, my son’s upcoming SAT test and spring break, it’s been one heck of a ride. Speaking of, we just got back home from our trip to Santa Barbara on Friday and my gosh, did the seven days fly by! I’ll be sharing all about our trip with where we stayed and activities we did. But today, I am sharing the third post of my monthly ramblings’ series. If you are new around here – these posts cover everything from favorite outfits to snacks I can’t stop eating to moments I want to hold onto forever. In case you missed it, I shared the second post of this series last month.

Let’s do this! 

Accessories Ramblings

Shein Straw Handbag

I love the look of the Loewe straw bag, but I wasn’t sure I was going to use a bag like that enough to justify buying one.  So, when I found a straw bag at Shein that caught my eye, I didn’t hesitate to give it a try. 

Let me just say that this bag is beautiful, super practical, goes with everything and completely suitable for summer or any tropical vacation! It is a small size, but it is super roomy and carries quite a bit.  Inside there is a fabric drawstring pouch for keeping your contents secure and contained.  Additionally, it’s handheld but comes with a crossbody strap for when you need your hands free.  #momwin All in all, this is a very well-made straw bag for the price – $15.  So, if you are wanting to give the straw bag trend a try, but aren’t sure how you’ll love it, this bag is a great starting point.  

*Side note: The pom pom key charm did not come with the bag. The one featured in the pictures is from my personal collection.

Straw Bag | Pom Pom Key Charm

Book Ramblings

Bible Stories for the Young by Sally Grindley and Jan Barger 

I would like my son to always be able to talk to me.  I want him to feel safe enough to be vulnerable to share anything at any time. So each day, my little guy and I would spend a little time talking about our day.  It is also during these moments that we share something we are thankful for.  I let him know that no matter what has transpired throughout the day, there is always something we can find to feel grateful for – big and small.  Then, at night before we go to bed, we read Bible Stories together and afterward we spend a few moments to talk to God in personal prayer. 

Speaking of Bible storybooks, it can be hard to find one that is simple enough for a young child to read.  Recently, I came across this book at our local library and I have to say that this book does a great job of telling stories that is easy to understand.  There are lots of colorful illustrations and most stories takes just five minutes to read which is perfect for little ones that is starting to learn more about God or with a short attention span.  Even as an adult, I enjoyed the artwork and stories throughout.  

Book

Without Merit by Colleen Hoover 

Without Merit is a powerful thought provoking read.  It is a book about family dynamics from a teenager’s perspective and the pages flew by for me despite the slow build up.  I enjoyed following along Merit, learning more about the Voss family through her eyes.  The family dynamic or lack thereof was portrayed so well, and the character development was great.  Each were flawed and have long-buried secrets they want to keep hidden.  In fact, there were so many secrets in this family and when it all comes out things come crashing down.  This would make a great summer read, but beware, there are some trigger warnings.  

Book

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens 

I just started reading Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens.  I have heard great things about it, so I am excited to dive in and see how it holds up!

Book

Fashion Ramblings

Shein Boys One-Piece Swimsuit

I ordered this suit for our beach trip and it’s exactly what I was looking for.  I simply love every detail about it – the fit, the colors, the print…the list goes on.  But more importantly, I appreciate the long sleeves.  My son loves to spend a lot of time in the sun, so safeguarding his skin is vital.  While I still plan to slather him in sunscreen, I wanted an added level of protection through clothing, and this did the trick.  It kept him cool and burn free.  Highly recommend! 

Hat | Swimsuit | Shoes

Shein Espresso Graphic Sweatshirt 

From its scent to its taste, I love everything about coffee! It’s one of my guilty pleasures and it’s one of those drinks I can’t do without.  So, when I came across this sweatshirt, it was a no brainer.  The design is so adorable and looked just like the pictures.  Not to mention, the material is soft and lightweight which makes it so easy to wear all day long! In fact, I wore it on our drive to Santa Barbara and was on constant rotation throughout our trip.  If you love coffee, then you’ll love this graphic sweatshirt! For size reference, I am wearing a small.  

Sweatshirt | Leggings | Shoes

Home Ramblings

Air Fryer

My dad gave us an air fryer several months ago. I’ve been cooking with it for quite a while now and I have to say, I love it! With just a timer, it’s very user friendly which means you don’t have to be an expert chef to use it.  Yay! What’s more, it works great without the need of using so much oil and make crispy foods taste similar to their deep-fried version. On top of this, I am very impressed at the fact that there’s virtually no clean up. I would highly recommend buying this item as a healthy alternative to frying.  

Air Fryer

Thank You Cards

We used these for my son’s birthday gift thank you notes, and I can’t say enough great things about it! The cards* are very well made and the different design on the front are super cute.  Since it is blank on the inside, there is plenty of room to write a note.  Additionally, the set comes with thank you stickers to add on after sealing the envelopes.  Such a great bonus! If you are looking for a fun set of quality thank you cards, these are the ones to get.

*Side note: cards came in unfolded and have an indented line for an easy fold.  FYI!

Thank You Cards

Wine Rack

Every wine lover dreams of having their own wine cellar in their home.  Of course, until that dream become a reality, why not build your own wine rack?! So, the hubby made it a mission to put together a good DIY wine rack in our front entryway closet.  It turned-out way more gorgeous than expected.  Isn’t it stunning?

Supercuts

I will never forget the very first time I took my son to get his hair cut.  Since he gets fidgety, I had to sit in the chair with him on my lap and it was a nightmare. He freaked out and I had to find ways to keep him entertained while simultaneously keeping him still and trying to stay alive! Since then, the hubby has become the designated hairstylist for cutting or trimming little man’s hair.  But, last month, I told him I wanted to get his haircut by a professional. At first, he didn’t want to, but he sat there the whole time without fussing. When we left, he actually told me, he enjoyed it and had fun. Hooray! 

Now it’s your turn! What’s one random thing you are loving lately, dying to try out or looking forward to?

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.  If you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no additional cost to you).  

**Additionally, some items linked above are not the exact item shown because it is either old or sold out, but I linked similar items for those that are unavailable.