2016 is almost over.

How crazy/awesome/scary/exciting/sad is that?! I feel like every year goes by a little quicker than the last and as I get older I can’t help but try and hold onto each day, week, month, year as long as I can. Personally I’ve had some really high highs and some really low lows. This year I’ve changed jobs, continued to build this blog and the A Midwestern Mix brand, added another furry friend to our family, taken many trips, laughed until I cried and witness the miracle of Palmer’s birth. In between all of those amazing things I also watched my Mom–and the entire family–go through an insanely traumatic 2 weeks, given myself more shots and fertility medications than one should ever have to + gone through month after month of failed attempts at getting pregnant and a failed IUI and had to put house-hunting/building dreams on the back burner. I’m honestly a bit bummed to see the doors coming to a close on 2016 but I’m also really hopeful for what 2017 will bring. Building a great life full of love and laughter is priority #1 and I know everything else will fall in line.

I want to thank each and every one of you who has visited A Midwestern Mix. Whether you’re a regular, occasional or 1st-time reader, THANK YOU! This little piece of the internet has been such an amazing outlet for me and I’ve gained some truly great friends from it. I would’ve have been able to grow and learn as much as I have without the support of my family & friends. Now I’ll leave you with a few of my FAVORITE THINGS from this past year. I hope y’all enjoy! xox

Favorite Purchase: Cabo, of course! But in terms of a fashion purchase I would definitely say THESE Levi’s.

Favorite Beverage: Iced Americano w/ 2 pumps White Mocha

Favorite Book: Devil in the White City by Erik Larson. Chicago is one of my favorite cities and I’m kind of a history nerd so this book was right up my alley. {My runner-up is: All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr}

Favorite Store: Nordstrom. I doubt that’ll ever change.

Favorite TV Show: Blindspot. If you haven’t see this on NBC, you MUST watch. Plus the lead guy is cute!

Favorite Destination: La Jolla, California. I’d never been and the vibe was great, people were super friendly, views were awesome and the food & drinks delicious. Definitely planning a trip back soon!

Favorite Restaurant: t.Loft in the KC metro. Every time I’m in town I make as many stops as possible. Their juices and bowls are the best.

Favorite Shoes: Nike Juvenates. These are lightweight, insanely comfortable and match literally everything. I have them in 3 colors because I love them so much.

Favorite Workout: OrangeTheory — obviously 😉 Omaha just opened its 2nd OTF studio and I’m excited to try out some classes from the new instructors in the upcoming year!

Favorite Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Chili. Ever since finding this recipe a few months ago, I’ve made it at least once every other week. It’s simple, healthy-ish and takes no time to make.

Favorite Trend: Off-the-Shoulder + Bell Sleeves. Both of those top styles I feel like can be worn casual or dressy and to work or out on the town.

Favorite Memory: Oh gosh, this one is really hard! I made a lot of great memories this year but I think my top one would be visiting Magnolia Farms in Waco with my mom, Janae, SIL & MIL. Such a fun experience!