Reading

Verity

There’s no book I’ve recommended more than Colleen Hoover’s Verity. This psychological thriller is a masterfully crafted tale that’s both eerie and gripping. I read it months ago, and I eagerly share it with anyone seeking a fantastic read.

This mind-bending novel introduces Lowen, a struggling writer with financial woes after her mother’s recent death. In a moment of desperation, Lowen accepts a job offer that could potentially change her life. She becomes a co-writer with Verity Crawford, a renowned author currently unable to write due to incapacitation. The pressure mounts on Lowen to complete Verity’s unfinished work, and she delves deep into the world of Verity’s writing to fulfill her contractual obligations.

During her research at Verity’s family home, Lowen stumbles upon a chilling discovery—a manuscript that unravels Verity’s life story. This spine-tingling confession-style narrative reveals the haunting events that have deeply impacted Verity’s family. Faced with a difficult choice, Lowen decides to keep the autobiography hidden from Verity’s husband, Jeremy. However, as she starts to get romantic feelings for Jeremy, her protective instincts heighten.

The story unfolds with suspense and intrigue, leaving us wondering about the future of Verity, Jeremy, and the writer hired to continue Verity’s literary legacy. Verity is a twisted unsettling thriller that will keep you page turning from beginning to end.

Real Estate, Style

2023 Colors of the Year

Throughout the year, there are moments of home transformations. As January arrives, all the decorations are neatly tucked away, and Spring is dedicated to thorough cleaning. Summer is all about enjoyment, but what about Fall? Personally, I believe Fall presents an excellent opportunity for painting projects.

Here are some of the top colors for 2023!

“People are ready to bring color back into the home, taking a step outside their color comfort zones. Raspberry Blush 2008-30 and the Color Trends 2023 palette empower the use of statement colors that deliver delight and personality, while transforming rooms for incredible results.” — Andrea Magno, Color Marketing & Development Director, Benjamin Moore

Blank Canvas effortlessly offers a clean and inviting blank slate that allows individuality and creativity to flow freely. This white easily harmonizes with a wide range of hues, including neutrals, earth tones and pastels for a charming and cozy appeal. Blank Canvas also pairs beautifully with black for a dramatic impact, and with bright accents like green or cobalt blue to instantly lift your mood.” — Erika Woelfel, Vice President of Color and Creative Services, Behr Paint Company

Redend Point‘s subtle pink undertones make it easy to incorporate into any space. It delivers an enveloping warmth that instantly makes you feel at home. Build on its earthiness by utilizing the hue alongside natural-looking textiles and wood accents or create a desert oasis by layering terracotta shades and clay materials.” — Sue Wadden, Director of Color Marketing, Sherwin-Williams

Cooking, Entertainment, Style

Barbie Pink Cocktail

Barbie is taking the world by storm. I absolutely loved my Barbie, and had all the wonderful clothes, shoes and accessories any Barbie could ever want or need. I can hardly wait to see the movie, but for now I have to settle for this festive Barbie Pink Cocktail.

At work we have celebrated Barbie the past two Friday afternoons, and then again today by our pool. All of our friends have loved the taste of the cocktail.

Here is the recipe so you too can celebrate Barbie too:

1 oz Malibu Rum

1 oz Orange Cointreau

1/2 oz Chambord Raspberry Liqueur

1/2 oz Fresh Lemon Juice

Pellegrino Sparkling Water

Raspberries for garnish

Wilton Pink Sanding Sugar

Get a cute glass like a highball, martini or champagne flute. Wet the edge of the glass with lemon juice or water, your choice, and dip into the pink sanding sugar. It will already look amazing and fun!

Put ice into your cocktail shaker and combine the rum, orange and raspberry liqueurs and lemon juice. Shake, shake, shake until it is icy cold.

Pour into the glass and add a bit of Pellegrino and then garnish with a couple of fresh raspberries.

NOTE: If you don’t want to take the time to shake the cocktails individually, you can multiply the recipe and make a pitcher and put in the refrigerator. When it is cocktail time, put some ice in the glass and pour the cocktail over, then add some Pellegrino and garnish.

If you want your cocktails stronger, add more liquer.