Alyson’s Obsessions // October 2016

How the freak is it mid-October? I feel like I vaguely recall saying back in January that I want to embrace this year, don’t want it to evaporate as quickly as 2015 did, and yet, we’re already in the home stretch, with the holidays creating 2-3 months of insanity. Both Evan and Sarah have birthdays just before Thanksgiving — which makes it extra casual and relaxing around here 😉 — so I’m currently trying to figure all of that, too. On the flip side, ah, cooler weather! While it’s still fairly toasty here in Florida, we’re finally feeling a reprieve, and heck, I’ll wear long sleeves and cardigans just about anytime, so now I feel a little less crazy.

I’m back again sharing my latest loves and obsessions but I also looovee hearing yours! Comment below or share on social what you’re loving this month. I’d love to hear, and I know other readers feel the same.

Designated Survivor // We just did a mini binge to catch up with this new ABC show featuring Keifer Sutherland (any 24 fans out there??), and it’s sooo good. Basically, the premise is that Keifer’s character, Tom Kirkman, is a low-level cabinet member who becomes President after a catastrophic attack kills everyone above him. The show is cast extremely well, with chemistry you can immediately feel among them.

DIY Pumpkins // I’m all about chic, easy ways to transform pumpkins! As a girl who’s not really into orange, I love this copper take on the traditional pumpkin idea. Also have fun mixing in the pretty white pumpkins, or use spray paint to transform craft pumpkins (we just got some at Michael’s) for a glam look. How cute is this from I Spy DIY?

Justice sequin initial bag //  We surprised Sarah with a trip to Disney last week, and also surprised her with this fun overnight/cheer/multi-purpose duffel bag. We’re getting into some “tween” gear — yup, despite her being nearly 7! — and accessories like this might be my favorite. I must confess I also nerd out over the store’s love affair with emojis, fun patch-detailed apparel, and lots more monograms. (PS: wait for the 30-40% off sales; I got this bag, along with a few other items, during a storewide sale).

This make-up brush // Do you put facemasks on with your fingers? Make it immensely easier, and cleaner, with this under $3 brush! Maybe everyone does this but me but I read it recently and had one of those duh moments…. why did I never think of this?!

Kendra Scott earrings // These rose-plated earrings by brand fav, Kendra (can I just use her first name and pretend we’re bff’s?) are SO gorgeous in person. They come in three color palettes (the navy crackle & gold is amazing), with this iridescent pair so beautiful against any hair and skin color. I just wore these with a black blouse for family photos and love how they can be worn year-round as well (oh, and they’re not too heavy — I hate that feeling like your ears are being weighed down!).

Upscale Downhome by Rachel Hollis // I’m seriously stalking my mailbox for this cookbook to arrive. Written by Rachel Hollis of The Chic Site (who I’ve only mentioned about 493,491 times) is so seriously awesome and talented, and if her recipes are any indication of those on her site, we are all in for a treat. She’s a mama to three boys, and runs a highly successful site (in addition to being an author, speaker, you get the point)… so I feel confident she’s not asking us to bake any 6 hour, 94 ingredient dishes. I pre-ordered this ages ago and get ready folks, I’m ready. With it’s current sale price, highly suggest you get your hands on this.

Yummiest/easiest baked salmon recipe // In my attempt to better plan dinners for the fam, I’ve also been making more use of my slow cooker and oven. While most salmon recipes call for a high temperature (say 425 for 18ish minutes), this one is all about low and slow, and the change works. The salmon was SO delicious. To keep things healthier, pair it with broccoli, cauliflower rice, quinoa or a frozen bag of veggies, if that’s what you have on hand. No judgement zone. I made this last week and am already eager to make it again.