Author: Allie Zottola

Life Lately

Life lately has been lovely. It has been filled with dogs, cake, family, friends, and reading. A winning combination in my book.

Let’s start with dogs, shall we?

Haley and Lola before a walk!

Haley and Lola before a walk!

I was this close to buying a puppy to train and show in dog shows. Jimmy said it was up to me because he knows all things dog related are my passion. I prayed about it, and I just didn’t think the time was right. Jimmy thinks our house is already full with animals, and I wanted to respect him.

Plus, writing a book and raising a puppy probably don’t mesh too well. I always want to be content with what I have. Lola and Malcolm are pretty much the best!

Oh, and how cute is my parents’ dog, Brandy? My mom sent me these pictures after she took Brandy to the groomer and I just had to share.

brandy

Alright, onto cake!

I am still obsessively experimenting with cake design, flavors, and frosting for Hannah’s bridal shower. I think I may do two small cakes, one with a blackberry filling, and a bunch of cupcakes. Don’t hold me to it, though. I change my mind at least once a week. I know for sure that I am loving the process!

cake-2 cake-1 cupcake

Family and friends have been the best. I had an amazing girls’ day with two ladies (plus the sweetest baby!) from church that are my family and friends. We had our nails done, grabbed lunch, talked, and shopped. It was just what I needed. I love doing life with these inspiring women ❤

girls-day

I told Jimmy how I was so excited to spend a day with a baby. It has been a long time since I’ve been around a baby for more than a few hours and it was just so sweet to bond with baby Leia!

cutest

As for reading lately, I am in a pretty good groove! I just finished Bringing in Finn by Sara Connell. The author struggled with infertility and her mom became her surrogate. It was just beautiful.

I’m also reading Women of the Bible by Ann Spangler and Jean E. Syswerda during my morning Bible reading time, and it’s great! I love the in-depth look at each woman.

What has your life been filled with lately?

Have you read any good books recently?

Currently

Current book The book of Genesis, specifically the story of Rebekah and Isaac. Also The Real Doctor Will See You Shortly by Matt McCarthy.

Current food Mint dark chocolate chip cookies. Anyone want the recipe?

Current obsession Practicing making Hannah’s bridal shower cake. Can’t stop, won’t stop.

cake-1

Current craving Our garden. I miss spending evenings in the dirt with Jimmy. Only four more months until we can plant again!

Current confession Jimmy and I are having a tough time keeping Malcolm off of our kitchen counters and table. We’ve even resorted to a spray bottle, but sometimes he just sits there and looks at us like “You think I’m afraid of that?” while we spray him.

Current drink Coffee.

Coffee Mug

Current mood Content 🙂

Current beauty product Burt’s Bees Vanilla Bean Lip Balm.

Current excitement Jimmy and I are sponsoring a young boy at Niños de Mexico! We send money each month that goes towards his care and get to correspond with him. We just sent him our first letters and pictures to introduce ourselves. You can read more about Niños here and here.

Ninos De Mexico

Current need Nada. I am so very blessed.

Current indulgence Dreaming up house projects.

Current procrastination Doing laundry. Our washing machine is in our basement and I’m too lazy to walk down the steps and start the laundry. Maybe after I post this I’ll stop procrastinating?

Current blessing Prayer. It just feels so good to be able to talk to God and ask for wisdom. It’s something I never want to take for granted!

Tell me something current in your life!