One of my favorite parts of the week is slowing down long enough to appreciate the little things.
The book that’s teaching me something new.
The show I can’t stop watching.
The local business that deserves more love.
The product that’s genuinely making life easier.
So welcome to another Favorites Friday! Here’s what’s been making me smile this week.
Book of the Week
The 10X Rule by Grant Cardone
I’ll be honest—I picked this one up because I wanted a mindset shift.
Running a business, working full-time in law enforcement, raising two kids, caring for my little zoo, and trying to build Gilded Margin sometimes feels overwhelming.
One thing this book keeps reminding me is that our goals often aren’t too big…
Our actions are too small.
Whether you agree with everything Grant Cardone says or not, it’s challenged me to think differently about consistency, discipline, and taking action instead of waiting until everything feels “ready.”
Current Rating: 5/5
Would I recommend it?
Absolutely—especially if you’re an entrepreneur, creator, or someone chasing a big dream.
Screen Favorites
Movie Series: The Hunger Games
Yes…
I’m watching them again.
And honestly?
They somehow get better every time.
The action is incredible, but what keeps pulling me back is the story beneath it all.
Sacrifice.
Loyalty.
Leadership.
Hope.
Katniss isn’t perfect, and I think that’s exactly why so many people connect with her.
Sometimes courage isn’t loud.
Sometimes courage is simply refusing to quit.
I loved the books and surprisingly I also love the movies too, which is rare for me.
TV Series: The Bear (Newest Season Out on Hulu)
If you haven’t watched The Bear yet…
Prepare yourself.
It’s chaotic.
It’s stressful.
It’s emotional.
It’s beautifully written.
As someone who tends to carry the weight of responsibility, this show hits a little too close to home sometimes.
The newest season continues exploring family, purpose, grief, ambition, and what happens when perfection becomes impossible.
It’s definitely earned a spot on my favorites list.
Local Spotlight
Hey Sugar Candy Store
Roanoke & Decatur, Texas
If you’ve never walked into Hey Sugar…
You’re missing out.
Yes, they have walls of candy that make every kid’s eyes light up.
Yes, they have incredible specialty sodas.
But can we talk about the ice cream?
As someone who’s lactose intolerant…
I probably shouldn’t love it as much as I do.
And yet… Here we are.
It’s become one of those little places my kids always ask to visit because there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for nostalgic candy, a fun family outing, or just an excuse to treat yourself after a long week, I definitely recommend stopping by.
Supporting local businesses is one of my favorite ways to invest back into our community.
Local Favorite Rating: 4/5
Favorite Purchase of the Week
Marley’s Dog Life Vest
One of my biggest goals with Gilded Margin is only recommending products I genuinely use.
This week, that’s been Marley’s new life vest.
Marley is getting older, and we’ve been looking for gentle ways to help him stay active while taking pressure off his joints.
Swimming is one of the best low-impact exercises for senior dogs.
The life vest gives him confidence in the water while allowing us to safely help him exercise without overworking his body.
Watching him paddle around has honestly been one of the sweetest parts of my week.
If you have an older dog, a dog recovering from surgery, or one learning to swim, I can’t recommend investing in a quality life vest enough.
Drink of the Week
Coconut Snickerdoodle Starbucks Order
Okay…
This might be my favorite drink we’ve created so far.
Here’s how I order it:
Grande Iced Blonde Latte
Coconut Milk or Oat Milk
Sugar-Free Vanilla Syrup
Cinnamon Dolce Syrup
Cinnamon Powder Sprinkles
Light ice
Sometimes with Protein or Vanilla Foam
It’s creamy, cozy, and somehow tastes like a snickerdoodle cookie without feeling overly sweet.
It’s become my go-to when I want something that feels like a treat without completely derailing my day.
If you try it…
You’ll have to let me know what you think.
I’d Love to Hear From You
Now it’s your turn.
What book are you currently reading?
What’s one movie or TV show you’d recommend?
Is there a local business everyone should know about?
What’s your current drink obsession?
And if you’re a pet owner… What’s one product you swear by?
Leave your favorites in the comments!
One of my favorite things about this series is discovering new books, hidden gems, recipes, and products through all of you.
Who knows…Your recommendation might end up in next week’s Favorites Friday.
This Week’s Favorites at a Glance
Book: The 10X Rule by Grant Cardone
Movie: The Hunger Games series
TV Show: The Bear (Newest Season)
Local Spotlight: Hey Sugar Candy Store (Roanoke & Decatur)
Affiliate Favorite: Dog Life Vest for Senior Dogs
Drink of the Week: Coconut Snickerdoodle Starbucks Order
The Gilded Margin 
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