Categories
Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #120

Hello everyone! 

Happy Friday! I hope you had a great week. I am off for a little weekend getaway which is much needed after a hectic few weeks. I’m looking forward to some exploring, relaxing, and a change up from the regular routine. 

A beautiful start to the day.

As I continue my weekend away, I wanted to pop on here and share some things that have caught my attention and I have been loving this week.

Let’s get started as I link up with Erika and Andrea.

New Jacket– I mentioned that I am back to enjoying all the fall vibes and that includes fashion too. I got this heavier jacket/blazer from Old Navy and have been loving it. You can dress it up with a dress, skirt, or dress pants, or keep it casual with jeans and flats. I have worn it both ways and have been pleased with the end result. It’s definitely a thicker jacket which is perfect for this time of year. A fall favorite for sure!

Fall Trail Mix– If you have been a reader for a while, then you know I love all things sweet and salty. I made this fall trail mix for Halloween and have been enjoying it all this week. It’s so simple to make and I’m sure you have all or most of the ingredients at home or you can supplement it with your favorite snacks. I combined pretzels, peanuts, rice chex, candy corn, m&m’s, craisins, marshmallows and chocolate chips all together for a trail mix. You don’t have to incorporate all these snacks, you can just do a savory mix or a sweet mix, but I LOVE all the flavors. Perfect for an evening treat while you watch a movie.

Homemade Bread– I know making your own bread was big during the pandemic, but it seems to be making a resurgence. I am thinking about learning to make my own, but that might get pushed to the new year. One of my friends has started to bake her own sourdough bread and I was able to snag a loaf and it was delicious. Look how perfect it came out. We enjoyed it fresh with homemade soup and it was the perfect pairing! This gives me the push to learn how to make it on my own even more. 

Face Mask– I love pampering myself with sheet facemasks and tried this one recently. It was cooling and my face felt rejuvenated and fresh once I was done using it. I don’t pamper myself with face masks or beauty products too often, so when I do, it’s always a treat. I will definitely be buying this one again to use.

New Book Haul– I typically go to my local library once or twice a week to drop off or pick up books and recently, several books that have been on hold came in and I couldn’t wait to pick them up. Now, it’s just a matter of figuring out what book to start with…I have some mysteries, new releases and recommendations. Have you read any of them? If so, what are your thoughts? These will keep me occupied until I start reading holiday books.

That’s a look into life lately and what I’m loving. I’m off to continue my weekend break. I’ll see you back here on Wednesday! 

Have a great weekend!

Categories
Currently

Currently #22

Hey guys! We are almost to my favorite time of year; all the holidays…from Halloween to Thanksgiving and rounding things off with Christmas! I love this time of year. I have been embracing the fall with all the leaves and the cooler temps. Here’s a look into what I’m currently into. 

What I’m up to:  I’ve been enjoying all the fall activities, I’ve been trying to go on long walks every week. Whether it’s near or far, I love a good walk. To read about some of my favorite walks, check out my latest post. I’ve also been spending lots of time with family. I’m also slowly getting ready for the holidays by decorating for Halloween and fall! 

A rainy day and a nice walk was the perfect combination for a Friday

What I’m wearing: I hate to say it, but my wardrobe hasn’t been too exciting. I’ve been wearing hoodies and sweaters and jeans on days off. For work days, It’s been a mix of long sleeve dresses and pants with blazers too. Layers has been key when it feels like winter in the morning but summer by the afternoon. 

Jacket in the morning…
Not needed by the afternoon…hello fall weather!
Long sleeves and straight hair for cooler mornings on the desk

What I’m reading: Reading every morning has been the best way to start my days. I really enjoyed The Silent Patient, it was the perfect mix of a mystery and a psychological thriller.

Here’s what I started my month with.

For romantic mystery, What if You and Me was a great pick. There’s also a spooky twist to it, which makes it perfect for Halloween.

Another cute one story with a cute twist

I just finished reading The Last Mona Lisa, it was one of the best books I read in a long time. I loved the historical mystery and the two different time period parallels.

One of the best books I’ve read in a long time.

I’m currently reading, Nantucket Threads, which is a summer beach read, it’s definitely lighter compared to my past few reads. 

What I’m Watching: Besides my weekly shows like Grey’s Anatomy and A Million Little Things, I’ve been watching Community, which is perfect to watch in the mornings when I’m getting ready or at night if I want to watch something to unwind. The all-star cast makes it so fun to watch! I’m also on the to watch season 3 of You on Netflix. I’m hooked on it. 

What I’m Loving: I’ve been loving fall walks, seeing the leaves falling, doing lots of  reading and warm mornings and nights. I have been starting my mornings between the gym and work by lighting a candle and sipping some hot cider while I get ready for the day. I do some reading and meditating before I head out the door. It’s the best way to start the day. 

Another fall walk in the books.

What Inspires Me: I’ve been inspired by the slow and steady of daily life mind you, not every day is slow and calm, I have plenty of busy days but I savor the calm ones. I’ve also been doing lots of baking to which satisfies a sweet tooth and it gives my family a sweet treat to enjoy.

A fall trail mix on a day off

What I accomplished: I’ve been getting things done on my fall bucket list, from walks to fall treats, cider, and cozy nights in. I’ll be sharing my full bucket list recap in the coming weeks. 

Fall pumpkins for some pretty decorations.

Goals Accomplished from Last Month I’ve done a good job at slowing down. After a busy summer of travel, it’s been nice to have more lowkey days off. Last week, I spent the day reading, watching some shows, baking, meal prepping and running a few fun errands. It was the perfect mix of balance on a day off.  

First Time making s’mores cookies,

Goals for the New Month: Did someone say holidays?! I can’t wait to start getting ready for the holidays, between gift giving, seeing family, treats and decorating….I can’t wait

That’s a look into the past month. What have you accomplished in the past few weeks?

Categories
Fabulous living

The Last of the Warm Days

Hello everyone! It’s the middle of November, but this past week the weather has been gorgeous! 80 degrees and sunshine in November instead of the snow is a true treat!!!

With that being said, I have been doing my best to get outside for walks and meals and even dressing for the weather! Here’s a look into some of my favorite spots and snap shots of the past week.

Clothes

A few months back, I hit the jackpot with dresses for work. They are perfect for fall weather. A few weeks back I wore this green dress, I can’t wait to wear it more in the winter and it would look great for Christmas!

Green for fall and winter

This purple one is a new favorite for me! I love the style and cut of it. The suede material speaks fall but the short sleeve works great for the warmer days and when it’s chilly, just add a blazer. 

Short sleeve for warmer days
Add a blazer for chillier days

Flowers

Another fall favorite has been fall flowers. Flowers are the easiest way to brighten a day and even on the gloomy days, they can brighten a room.

Seasonal Flowers

Food Spots

The warm weather has led to even more outdoor dining!!!! Here’s a glance at some of my favorite outdoor dining spots especially if you are local!

Federal Hill

I have heard about Federal Hill for years and I finally got to taste it. This was delicious pulled pork and sides and eating outside for a picnic made it even better.

A picnic lunch

Samauri Kitchen

If a smokehouse isn’t for you, then maybe sushi is another option. Samauri had a variety of options from sushi to hibachi, poke bowls and more. We ate on the patio at night and even though it was chilly, they heaters outside made it so comfortable. 

Sushi date

Ellicottville Brewing

If you are looking to take a drive and see all the fall leaves before they fall, then heading up to Ellcottville, New York is the perfect fall option. There are many little shops in their downtown to pop in and out of, but Ellicottville Brewing is a great spot to eat. There is a large patio in the back for outdoor dining with a beautiful backdrop of the mountains behind you as you eat.

Outdoor dining for the win

Walks

I have been loving my fall walks, whether it is for a few hours or just a quick walk, there is nothing better than being outside in warm weather.

That’s just a look into life today and the importance of soaking up warm weather before its snow and cold temperatures for a few months. Enjoy the warm weather while we have it.

Categories
Fabulous living

Fall Bucket List

Hi everyone!! Happy October!! The leaves are on the ground, the air is crisp, it’s time for long sleeves and layers, plus the holiday season is right around the corner. Although, this holiday season will look different, I am embracing the change and making the best of it. As fall approaches, I love to make a fall bucket list of things I want to accomplish, everything from foods to make, things to do and places to see. These next few weeks are going to be busy for me but I still want to make the best of it and fit in some fun things to do. Here’s a quick list of things I want to do this season:

  • Apple Picking
  • Head to a Pumpkin Patch
  • Enjoy Hot Cider
  • Get Cozy by a Bonfire
  • Enjoy Fall Leaves
  • Break out the Fall Wardrobe
  • Turn on the Fire Place
  • Make Apple Crisp 
  • Still enjoy walks outside with the leaves
  • Learn a new fall recipe 
  • Read more books
  • Celebrate Halloween
  • Enjoy apple cider donuts
  • Live in a grateful mindset
Already made some apple crisp

Now, some of these are easier said than done, but I love making a list of things I want to accomplish to make sure I get them all in. The most important to me is the grateful mindset, I’m hoping that in the busy times, I remember that being grateful is the best way to live a life. 

First glimpse of fall

What are some things you are hoping to accomplish this fall season and what’s one thing you are grateful for this season?

Already made It on a fall walk
Look at the leaves!!!
Categories
Fabulous living

Pinterest: Success or Fail?

I love baking, and trying new things. I was home for Fall Break a few weeks ago and besides being home and seeing my family, I wanted to try some new recipes. I hit up Pinterest and a few of my favorite blogs for some ideas.

Here’s the first one I tried. You can see the full recipe here. It was a delicious fall treat for October.  Here’s a quick recap:

All you need are some apples, crescent rolls, cinnamon, brown sugar, nutmeg, all spice seasoning  and butter.

You are going to lay out all your crescent rolls all spread out on a sheet of wax paper on a cookie sheet.

Slice your apples and peel the skin off if you so choose.

Apples and butter mixture

In a bowl you are going to melt your butter and mix in the sliced apples.

Crescents with the mixture on them

In a second bowl you are going to mix brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and all spice and then you are going to spread it over each crescent roll.

Rolling crescent rolls with the apples and mixture

I used the large crescent rolls so I put two apple slices per roll, in the future, I am going to put more than two because I found while eating them there was too much pastry and not enough apples.

Ready to be put in the oven.

You are going to roll the crescents up, put one coat of the melted butter over top each roll and put some of your mixture on top of each crescent. Bake it for 28 minutes at 350 degrees.

Ready to eat for delicious fall treat!

Take them out and cool. Eat them warm for a delicious fall treat.

I hope this gives you some ideas for fall treats. I ate this as a dessert but they would also be great as an appetizer or lunch snack. Give it a try and let me know what you think of it. What are your favorite fall snacks?

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #20

LOTD

A perfect fall ensemble

It’s officially fall! I love the leaves changing, the crisp air and the smell of apples all season long. But, as soon as the first snow fall hits, I am in the Christmas spirit. Thankfully, we have a few more months until it’s time for Christmas carols and sleigh bells.

Fall weather means it’s time for shoe boots, comfy sweaters, and hot apple cider. This outfit is perfect for an autumn walk or pumpkin carving. Although, you can’t see my shoes I wore a simple black, wedges shoe boot. These are my favorite shoe boots that I wear in the fall and winter. The heel is big enough to a long pair of jeans or a simple black skirt. I got these jeans from Old Navy. Old Navy is my go to for jeans, I love all the unique styles they have and there so many options that you can find one that fits your style and look. I am wearing the boot cut style in this picture and it works perfect for heeled shoe or boot. I got this black turtleneck sweater from GAP a few years ago both in black and a fuchsia pink. They are staples in my wardrobe for fall and winter. They are warm and comfortable but are also unique with the neck. A long necklace would make a perfect statement piece with this sweater. It’s also thick enough that you don’t need to wear another layer in the warmer fall weather. I am obsessed with hats this year, from monogrammed baseball hats, to floppy summer hats, and panama hats. I found this cowboy style hat on sale from DSW and I had to get it. It completes this outfit perfectly and I have found other outfits that I can add it to.

Hot Apple Cider may be my favorite part of Fall.

Finally, I have my hot drink in my hand, whether you are a #PSL girl or a hot apple cider girl like myself, a warm drink is crucial for fall. Speaking of which, I hope you are reading this blog with your favorite fall drink. Happy Thursday and TGIT (Thank God it’s Thursday)…if you get that reference I hope you are as pumped for tonight as I am!!!