Tag: fall

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Currently

Currently #22

Hey guys! We are almost to my favorite time of year; all the holidaysā€¦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. Hereā€™s a look into what Iā€™m currently into. 

What Iā€™m up to:  Iā€™ve been enjoying all the fall activities, Iā€™ve been trying to go on long walks every week. Whether itā€™s near or far, I love a good walk. To read about some of my favorite walks, check out my latest post. Iā€™ve also been spending lots of time with family. Iā€™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 Iā€™m wearing:Ā I hate to say it, but my wardrobe hasnā€™t been too exciting. Iā€™ve been wearing hoodies and sweaters and jeans on days off. For work days, Itā€™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.Ā 

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

What Iā€™m reading:Ā 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. Thereā€™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.

Iā€™m currently reading, Nantucket Threads, which is a summer beach read, itā€™s definitely lighter compared to my past few reads.Ā 

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

What Iā€™m Loving: Iā€™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. Itā€™s the best way to start the day. 

Another fall walk in the books.

What Inspires Me: Iā€™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. Iā€™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:Ā Iā€™ve been getting things done on my fall bucket list, from walks to fall treats, cider, and cozy nights in. Iā€™ll be sharing my full bucket list recap in the coming weeks.Ā 

Fall pumpkins for some pretty decorations.

Goals Accomplished from Last Month Iā€™ve done a good job at slowing down. After a busy summer of travel, itā€™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 canā€™t wait to start getting ready for the holidays, between gift giving, seeing family, treats and decoratingā€¦.I canā€™t wait

Thatā€™s a look into the past month. What have you accomplished in the past few weeks?

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Let's Get Cooking

Fall Recipe: Cake Balls

I always like to make a new treat/ snack/ meal every season. At the start of the year I was on a roll with cooking one meal a week, I have to admit, I have been slipping these past few months. Iā€™m hoping to do more cooking these next few months as fall and winter settle in. I did manage to make a new fall dessert a few weeks back with my mom. Hereā€™s a tasty recipe for cold days inside. This is a super simple, three ingredient dessert that’s perfect for any get together.

Cake Balls

Ingredients:

  • Cake mix (baked or pre-made)
  • Icing
  • Melting chocolate
  • Garnishes (sprinkles, chocolate chips, etc.)

Directions:

  1. Make cake (I used chocolate for this recipe, but any flavor works. I just made a cake from the box with eggs, water and oil. )
  2. Once cake is baked, let it cool.
Cake is done!

3. Break apart cake until it’s all broken up.

Cake broken apart

4. Combine icing (I used chocolate) and cake and mix together.

The new mixture

5. Roll cake mix into balls and then place in freezer for 30 minutes.

The cake balls ready to go in the freezer

6. Once they were done in the freezer, I melted chocolate and dipped the cake balls in to completely cover them. It can get messy, so I would reccommend using a spoon to dip them.

The cake balls all dipped in chocolate

7. The chocolate dries fast, so make sure you dip them fast and add garnishes, whether it’s sprinkles or chocolate chips or nuts.

The finished product. I had some leftover melting chocolate so I made some dip pretzels. Yum!

Enjoy your dessert! You can freeze leftovers and enjoy at a later date.

Up close of the dessert

This is just a fun and easy dessert that I saw on Pinterest and wanted to try for myself. It was easy to make and tasty and was a great crowd pleaser. What fall recipes have you been making?

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Fashion

Fall Outfit Round-Up

Hi guys! HappyWednesday. I hope your week is off to a great start.

Now that we are in the midst of fall, I thought it was time for a fall outfit roundup. To be honest, the weather has been fairly mild, so I still am wearing some summer clothes and dresses. Some mornings its really chilly but then by 3:00 in the afternoon, it’s 75 degrees, it makes planning for outfits very challenging.

I have a feeling the deeper we get into autumn, the more I will have to transition from lighter to darker colors. I am ready to welcome fall with open arms. I’m ready for layers, sweaters and all things cozy!

Hereā€™s two new looks, one for the office. One for a weekend or a day out and about.

Bright red for fall

This work dress is score from Amazon. I placed an order this summer and was really happy with all my purchases. To see some of my other Amazon successes, click here.

This red cotton dress is perfect for summer and fall. It’s affordable, easy to clean and great quality. It’s light enough for summer and the hot days, but a great transitional piece for changing seasons. I may even try and wear it in the winter with a blazer and tights.

I love the Peter Pan collar and the cut and style of the dress.

Overall, this was a major win for me!

If you are looking for a casual look out of the office, I have an option for you too.

A casual look

I went for a fall walk and train ride a few weeks back and it was the perfect time to break out some fall clothes. I got the top from J.Crew for Christmas and couldn’t wait to wear it. I love the detail in the collar and the puffed sleeves. It’s a classic look for spring and fall.

The vest is an oldie but a goodie. I got it from Francesca’s several years ago and it was a staple during my college years. It’s lightweight and perfect for the start of fall.

I paired the outfit with a pair of new leggings from Target. I’ve only worn them once, so the jury is still out on them, but I was pleased with the color and the comfort especially after walking all day. We will see how wear number two goes.

Lastly, I rounded the outfit off with a pair of shoe boot wedges from Payless. I wore them a lot in college but haven’t worn them a lot recently. I was happy they are still comfortable and durable.

Up-close of the top.

I will have plenty more outfits as the season goes on. This is just a start. I can’t wait for more fall weather and outfits. What are your favorite looks for this season?

Categories
Fabulous living

Fall Bucket List

Hey yaā€™ll, itā€™s fall!!! I rarely say yaā€™ll except to have it rhyme with fall hehe! If you have been following along for a while, you know I love my bucket lists and to do lists.

Every season I make a list of activities or things I want to do in that season. I’ve made them for the past few summers and I love seeing how much I accomplish and all the memories I make along the way. They can be as simple as getting a favorite drink or going for a walk or something bigger like heading to a fall festival. It’s all about taking advantage of opportunities and making memories.

I always like to create a list of season must-doā€™s. Hereā€™s my fall 2021 bucket list:

My Fall Bucket List
  • Apple Picking
  • Niagara Falls
  • Kinzua Hike
  • Hockey Game
  • Cider Press
  • Decorate Pumpkins
  • Collect Leaves
  • Scary Book and Movie
  • Celebrate HalloweenĀ 
  • Fall Walk
  • Enjoy Hot Apple Cider
  • Make A Fall Treat
  • Mason Farms
  • Fall Festival

This is just a little to-do list of plans I have for the next few months. If I get them all done, great! If I donā€™t then itā€™s not the end of the world. Sometimes, I do things that arenā€™t on my list and thatā€™s part of the fun. Also, having a list helps come up with ideas to do when you are looking for fun inspiration.

Whatā€™s something on your fall bucket list!?

Categories
Fabulous living

The Last of the Warm Days

Hello everyone! Itā€™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! Hereā€™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 canā€™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 itā€™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!!!! Hereā€™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 isnā€™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.

Thatā€™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
Fashion

Amazon Clothes Haul

A few months back I did some Amazon clothes shopping, it was in the middle of the pandemic and I needed to refresh my wardrobe, I have heard great things about Amazon clothes so I decided to give it a try for work dresses. I bought five and here are the results.

  • Orange Dress with SleevesĀ (this isnā€™t the exact one but itā€™s the closest I could find, same brandy but different style). Overall, I was happy with the dress, it wasnā€™t the material I had in mind, itā€™s a tighter style and fabric. I really liked the softer orange, I think it was a unique color and it looks great on air. I added a black necklace, earrings and shoes just to add another contrasting color.Ā Ā Like the neck line and the fact it was a longer dress. I wore it both anchoring and reporting so it can be versatile in what you are doing. It does need hand washed or dry cleaned, just as and FYI, but overall it was happy with the purchase and itā€™s great for spring and summer.
Orange dress from the summer
  • Teal DressĀ (this is the dress but long sleeved) I love, love, love this dress. Not only is it easy to move in and comfortable, especially on long days but it also looks super fashionable. The color will catch your eye since itā€™s bright but not too bright. It also shows up great for camera which is a bonus for me! I also really like the tie on the neckline. I have paired it with nude heels, white heels, and black heels. Since the dress is a solid color, it works great for any pair of shoes! This has been a favorite in my summer wardrobe!
Teal dress from the summer
  • Blue and White DressĀ (this is my dress) I love, love, love this dress. My favorite part is the neckline, I love the collar and the blue and white colors. It is a perfect dress for spring going into summer or summer going into fall. The cotton material makes it comfortable and easy to move around in, especially for days when I am on the go. It washes easily which is a big plus and it fits true to size. Definitely a great purchase!
Blue and white short sleeve dress from the summer
  • Black and White DressĀ Ā (this is my dress) I loved my blue and white dress so much I wanted to get in black and white for fall and winter. I love the collar and the fact itā€™s long sleeved, perfect for fall and winter. I also like that this dress is made from cotton material which makes it easy to wash and clean, plus itā€™s comfortable for the long days. It worked perfect for fall and I canā€™t wait to wear it in the winter, plus it adds a little extra compared to just being a simple black dress.Ā 
Black and white dress for the fall/winter
  • Burgunday DressĀ (this is my dress) I love the color for fall and winter. It is the same tight/latex-ish material as the orange dress. It is not as comfortable as the black and white dress or the blue and white dress. But I do like the color, and the neckline with the bow at the top and the pockets too!! Although, itā€™s not my favorite dress, I am happy with the color and to have any extra dress.
Burgundy dress again for the fall and winter

Overall, I was very happy with my purchases from Amazon, given that I bought them in quarantine, I was happy with them all, but I do like going to see and pick out clothes instead of online. I just had a lot of luck at Marshallā€™s and T.J. Maxx so I canā€™t wait to try those out. 

Thatā€™s just a peak into my closet and my latest buys! Where have you been having luck with fall fashion?!

Categories
Fabulous living

Fall Bucket List

Hi everyone!! Happy October!! The leaves are on the ground, the air is crisp, itā€™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. Hereā€™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, Iā€™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 whatā€™s one thing you are grateful for this season?

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

Currently #9

Hi everyone!! Happy Fall!! Can you believe we are finishing up September. I wasnā€™t ready to say goodbye to summer, but after chilly weather these past few weeks, I am officially ready for fall. I want crisp leaves, hot apple cider, pumpkins, and all the sweaters! As we wrap up another month, itā€™s time for another Currently. Hereā€™s a look into whatā€™s new this past month. 

What Iā€™m up to: This month started out with all things summer, from Labor day, to days spent outside and end of the season barbecues. But, mid way through it changed from summer to fall fast. I couldnā€™t believe when it was 45 degrees when I was heading into work..brrrrā€¦.but now that fall is here I am ready to embrace it and everything that comes with it.  

What Iā€™m wearing: This part of the year is always so hard when it comes to work clothes, do you look too fall-ish with pants and sweaters or do you freeze with dresses?! Itā€™s such a toss-up, I will be ready for when weather gets consistent, if it ever does? What are some of your go-tos for fall fashion?

Bringing in darker colors for fall for work

What Iā€™m reading: I just finished reading, The Royal We, it was the perfect mix of romance, drama, fairy tale and fun. Although, it took a while to get through it, I was so happy with the ending. The sequel just came out so I know I am going to dig into it soon. I am about to pick up a new book, about the end of summer, perfect timing donā€™t you think? What are you reading now?

What Iā€™m Watching: I just finished watching Get Organized with The Home Edit on Netflix. As someone who loves to organize, this was my show, I loved that they showed how to organize different spaces in every episode. I love to learn different tips and tricks to make my spaces clutter free and more orderly, plus who doesnā€™t like a peak into some of your favorite celebrity homes?

What Iā€™m Loving:Ā I am loving the changing of the leaves and seasons, although I was so sad to see summer go, I am already working on a bucket list for fall, it includes, apple picking, pumpkins, scarves, autumn colors, and crisp air. I canā€™t wait to start celebrating the next few holidays. I am also loving fresh flowers as the seasons change.

End of summer flowers

What Inspires Me: I have been on a Pinterest kick, everything from seasons, quotes, and home dĆ©cor. Its been a fun escape from social media and it makes me feel a lot more creative too. 

What I accomplished: I have been working on budgeting. I made a lot of headway in saving and organizing my money. One of my goals after college was to live at home and save a lot and I am happy with how I have been doing with it so far. Plus, thanks to the Every Dollar Budget App, I have everything organized in one place and on my phone and I can reference it whenever I need it.

Goals Accomplished from Last Month: I took advantage of the last few weeks of summer and I still want to keep up with that this month. I also got a lot of things done in and out of work, there is nothing better than crossing things off a to-do list. 

Goals for the New Month: I want to make sure I am connecting with friends whether itā€™s in person or facetime. Putting family and friends first is a huge priority for me. I also want to make sure I am still getting fresh air and exercise in my daily routines. As the weather gets colder and Iā€™m tempted to stay inside more I still want to make sure I am getting out of the house when I can.

I’ve been loving extra cuddle time with my pups

Thatā€™s a little look into life this month, nothing too exciting, a lot of work, downtime on days off, time spent with family, staying in touch with friends. Watching some shows, doing some reading, working out and balancing life. Iā€™m excited for fall and what this next season brings! What are you looking forward to?

Categories
Fabulous living

Fall Favorites

Hey everyone! Happy Tuesday. I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. This past weekend I headed home to surprise my family. They were definitely caught off guard. After spending a few days at home, I feel so refreshed. It’s amazing what a few days of change of pace and routine can do for you. I am also realizing that sometimes slow is better than being on the go all the time. I canā€™t believe that we are halfway through November. I will be graduating in ONE month which is so exciting but also so hard to believe.

The next several posts will start a new series all about my college experience, they are a mixture of reflection posts as well as being in the moment about things going on. I have been planning these posts for so long and I am so excited to finally share them with you. Before we get to that, I wanted to catch you up on what Iā€™ve been loving. I did a summer favorites post, a few months back. You can read it here. Now, that we are into a new season, I figured it was time for a fall favorites post! Letā€™s get to it!

Favorite Music: There has been so many new albums out that I have been listening to nonstop.  Joshua Radinā€™s Here, Right Now has been a must listen. I have also been finding a lot of good stations on Amazon Prime to listen to, I am loving Mellow 70ā€™s for when I need some background music or Top Rock songs for the gym. I love the oldies by goodies. I am holding off as long as possible to start playing Christmas music

Some of my favorite playlists of this season

Favorite Binge Worthy TV Show: I am loving Modern Love on Amazon Prime. Have you seen it?! Itā€™s a mini-series based on New York column. Every episode is a single story all about finding different kinds of love in the everyday life. I love the concept of it and itā€™s an all-around feel good story. I would definitely recommend it, if you have already seen it, which was your favorite story?!

One of my new favorite mini series

Favorite Drink: I have been drinking all the hot apple cider and hot chocolate these past few weeks. I am also all about lemon water with mint. So refreshing, but with the colder weather I love the hot drinks. 

Favorite Food: Once again with colder weather I love some hot soup, whether itā€™s with lunch or dinner, itā€™s a hearty meal that keeps you warm and full. I also have been enjoying warm and buttery crossiants. There is nothing better than warm soup or a warm drink and something savory to go with it.

Favorite Beauty Products: In the summer, I am all about minimal makeup and neutral colors. I have my makeup routine down to a science, most of the time I go for simple bronze and highlighter with mascara. I am also going for a darker lip color or a neutral color. 

Just a quick snap shot of my makeup from the past week-simple and neutral

Favorite Fall Activity: Between school and work, I have been enjoying all the fall fun things to do, from fall fests, pumpkin patches, and corn mazes. I am looking forward to celebrating the holidays in the next few weeks with Light up Night, and gift exchanges. But for now I am loving the season I am in.

I went to a corn maze a few weeks back and I loved how the sun hit the corn

Favorite Spot: Whenever I have been on the go this semester, so I havenā€™t had much time to sit and relax. I am trying to enjoy my last few weeks of college whether itā€™s doing things with friends or just catching up. I am being present and making every moment a memory. 

I was heading to the gym early one morning and loved catching the sun rise

Thatā€™s a little recap of what I have been loving and what my favorite thigs are. What are some things that you are loving this fall?!

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #126

LOTD

Hey everyone!

Happy Thursday, I canā€™t believe next week is Halloweenā€¦where has the month of October gone?! Iā€™m ready for all the Halloween activities.

Todayā€™s look of the day is sticking to all the colors of fall. I love navy and a vibrant green, especially in the fall. Now that we are in the midst of fall and the weather that comes with it, I am all about layering clothes, wearing jeans, and boots all the time. This outfit has all those things. Letā€™s get to it!

I wore my boot cut jeans from Old Navy that I adore. When I was home for fall break, I popped into to see what was new and I got a new pair of their regular cut jeans-my go to after the boot cut jeans. I also picked up some cute fall tops, and a new pair of shoe boots. I canā€™t wait to share them with you in the next few weeks. Also, Old Navy had so many good sales going on that I couldnā€™t resist. Now, back to the outfit.

The full outfit

I paired these jeans with a Kelly green sweater that I got from Ralph Lauren, I love the color and the style, the collar is my absolute favorite. Plus, this sweater is so thick and comfortable, you will definitely be warm for the fall and winter months.Ā 

My jacket is another favorite part of this outfit, I got it at Old Navy a few years back and I love it for so many reasons, to start, I love the style and cut of it. It can be worn professionally with dress pants heading to work or worn with jeans for a day out. Also, it is so warm, itā€™s made from thick fabric so you will definitely be warm.

Up close of the sweater

Lastly, due to my boot cut jeans, I needed a shoe boot, I opted for my black leather ones. They were a great purchase from T.J. Maxx years ago and they have held up so well.Ā 

This outfit is perfect for those chill fall days, whether you are out doing shopping, at a fall festival, or even heading to class. What are your favorite fall colors to wear? 

I hope you all have a toasty warm weekend.