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Currently

Currently #21

Hey hey guys! Happy final week of September! Anyone else feel like we just celebrated Labor Day??

This month feels like a whirlwind, from wrapping up summer fun to starting the fall season. This month was packed full with lots of fun and memories. Here’s a look back on September with Currently.

What I’m up to:  Lots of fall walks! I am trying to soak up as much time outside as possible. From walks at the Peninsula, to walks in the woods or just in my backyard.

Finishing summer with summer walks.

I finished summer with a traditional baseball game.

Ending summer at a baseball game.

I’ve also made headway in my fall bucket list! l already went to a pumpkin patch and I’m making headway in some scary stories and fall walks too. Besides work and family time, my hobbies have been keeping me busy.

I already went to a pumpkin patch this year.

What I’m wearing: The weather has made it hard to find outfits this season. Sometimes I can get away with short sleeves, other times, its long sleeves and pants. I have a fall roundup of work clothes coming soon! I am starting to break out my leggings when I’m at home on days off or when I come home from work. I found a great pair from Gap, they are super long lasting and are thick too. I also like that they are high-waisted too!

What I’m reading: I finished reading “The People You Meet on Vacation” and I absolutely loved it! From the characters, the plot and the way it was told. If you haven’t read it yet, I highly recommend it!

My little buddy reading with me.

I’m also currently reading “The Silent Patient”. My friend Maddie recommended it to me and I have loved it! I’ve never been a fan of thrillers or dark mysteries but I’m hooked on it. What are some books you are loving?!

What I’m Watching: I finished watching season 2 of Modern Love. I really loved the first season and I thought the second one was good, but I really loved the first one. Based on popularity I started to watch Community. I really love the characters and how its only 30 minute episodes. I also can’t wait for my shows to return on tv!! Shows returning in the fall is a big favorite for me!

What I’m Loving: As we are making our way through fall, I’m all about staying in more, less time traveling and more quality time unwinding after work or spending time with family. I’m loving cozy nights in and building time in my schedule for the things I love including reading or shows or even going for walks or coffee with friends. 

I’ve been spending a lot of time baking.
And cooking too!

What Inspires Me: For the longest time I was putting off the start of fall. I wanted to hold onto summer for as long as I could. I enjoyed a boat ride with co-workers and I enjoyed a flower festival with my mom too!

But now that fall is here, I’m embracing it!! From seeing the leaves fall to lighting warm scents and candles to seeing pumpkins and hay and apples in displays in stores and at different farmer’s markets. 

Boat rides with co-workers!
And summer flower festivals too!

What I accomplished: As far as accomplishments go, I’ve been keeping busy at work between some projects and just the daily work. I’ve been making time for meaningful time with family too. I got busy in the summer visiting friends, but now that things have quieted down a but I’m liking a quieter lifestyle. I even started finding old hobbies fun again, like word searches. I loved them as a child and I’m found my love for them again!

I feel like a kid again with a word search!

Goals Accomplished from Last Month I really soaked up the end of summer and the warm weather by going on walks and enjoying some tasty ice cream, say it with me, ice cream makes everything better. Now, that summer is officially behind us, it’s full on fall mode. 

Big pumpkins are getting me ready for fall!

Goals for the New Month: Besides working, my goal for the next month is to accomplish as many things as possible on my fall bucket list! I love my lists and I look forward to crossing more things off and making memories.

My Fall Bucket List

That’s a look into my life this past month, all about the changing of seasons and getting ready for a new season. What are you looking forward this next month? What was a highlight from your past month?

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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 Sleeves (this isn’t the exact one but it’s the closest I could find, same brandy but different style). Overall, I was happy with the dress, it wasn’t the material I had in mind, it’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.  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 it’s great for spring and summer.
Orange dress from the summer
  • Teal Dress (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 it’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 Dress (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 Dress  (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 it’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 it’s comfortable for the long days. It worked perfect for fall and I can’t wait to wear it in the winter, plus it adds a little extra compared to just being a simple black dress. 
Black and white dress for the fall/winter
  • Burgunday Dress (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, it’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 Marshall’s and T.J. Maxx so I can’t wait to try those out. 

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

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Fashion

Favorite Beauty Finds

Hi everyone, happy Wednesday! It has been a while since I’ve done a beauty roundup. With the seasons changing, I figured there would be no better time than to share some of my favorite new beauty finds. Since I started working in news I have tried new products to make sure my hair and makeup last for the whole day. These are a few products that I use every day and they never let me down.

I have always worn primer since working, typically I would wear a clear one from NYX. But I made the switch to Neutrogena Green Primer. I know what you may think, green primer?! Trust me it works for me. I have red tones in my skin complexion, so the green primer counter-acts it and balances it out. It may go on green but after you smooth it out and blend it in, the green is gone and your are left with smoother skin and a blender primer. 

Neutrogena Primer

Speaking of green, I decided to get green concealer as well. Once it again, it counteracts any red blemishes or marks and leads to a smother complexion. It may seem crazy to add double the green to your face and once again this doesn’t work for everyone, but for my skin tone it has been a game changer. You can add a bit more to any problem areas you may have and it blends right in. I use both of these products just for work, on my days off, I go minimal makeup and don’t apply as much product, but for the long days, these products are both game changers.

NYX Concealer

I saw this on Carly’s blog and after she gave great reviews on it, I wanted to give it a try and let me say, I AM OBSESSED. I put this on in the shower daily and my skin is so soft and smooth. I have noticed my skin is less dry too. I also put on body lotion after the shower, but there is nothing better than soft and smooth legs. 

Olay Body Conditioner

Again, another game changer that helps me get through my mornings faster. What I love about this two in one brush is that it brushes your hair while drying it and it gives you great volume. I have only used it a handful of times but I am so happy with the finishes product. This brush works great for on the go mornings or when you don’t want to go out with your hair wet. It is definitely worth the cost and you cn find it online and in stores! 

Revlon Volumizer Brush

These are just my latest favs! What things are you loving this season when it comes to beauty??? Let me know below!!

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Currently

Currently #8

Hi everyone! Can you believe we are already to the end of August?! Where has this summer gone? In some ways this summer has flown by and I have gotten to fit a lot in whether it is family time, friend time, lots of walks and time outside. But at the same time, I haven’t been able to do a lot of things with coronavirus which has made this a very different summer. Overall, I have many memories from these past few months and I can’t wait to share them soon. As one month ends, it’s time for another currently update! Here’s a look into the past month. 

What I’m up to: This  month has been about all the lasts before school is back in session for my brothers, although I won’t be heading back into the classroom, it definitely feels like summer is winding down and it’s time to get all the last minute things done like ice cream nights, day trips, barbecues and late nights. I’m trying to spend as much time outside as I can before it’s back inside for fall and winter. 

What I’m wearing: I have been trying to wear all the bright colors before summer is over, hello yellows and blues and pinks and greens. Also, since I have been upping my workout routine I got some new gym clothes and that has given me even more motivation to work harder in the gym.  

A snap shot from work but just an example of a bright color I am wearing

What I’m reading: My reading goal for this summer will not be met. I have read some really goo books this summer but haven’t been disciplined at just reading. I am hoping with colder weather coming I will be more inclined to curl up with a book on my days off. My summer book review is coming soon!!

What I’m Watching: I’m still watching 30 Rock as a do work or get ready for the day. It is one of my summer goals to finish it but we will see if I can make that happen. I am almost done watching The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. It has been a great thing to watch at the end of the day, it’s funny, it’s serious, it’s something light and a great summer show to watch before my  fall shows hopefully come back soon…

What I’m Loving: I have been loving working out, I started going to a gym when I started my job back in the winter and I loved going, then coronavirus hit. Now, I have been back in the gym, five days a week since they reopened at the end of June and I am loving it. I can feel myself get stringer each time and it’s the best way to start my day.   

What Inspires Me: I have been inspired by all things fresh and clean. There is nothing better than having a clean desk at the end of the day or marking everything off your to do list. I also have been inspired to be more intentional with my time. I am good with the big things like working out or catching up with family or friends on the phone but when it comes to the little things I’m not so good with it. For example, I don’t have time to read a book but I can scroll on facebook for an hour…I am inspired to work harder with my time. 

What I accomplished: I have accomplished a lot of summer bucket list items and getting a lot of one on one time with family and friends. On my days off I love to spend some extra time with my younger brothers before they head back to school. I also try to do bi-weekly facetime calls with friends besides texting daily. There is nothing better than seeing some friends virtually and really devoting time to family and friends one on one. 

Goals Accomplished from Last Month: I have done a really good at feeling productive especially on my days off or before I go to work. I always have a daily to do list of both work and fun and I love checking things off of it. I also got a lot of time outside which was awesome and I checked even more things off my bucket list for the summer.  

Cutting fresh flowers and being outside is something I will miss about summer

Goals for the New Month: I want to be able to spend the last few weeks of summer outside as much as I can especially when it comes to grilling and swimming and just being outside. I also want to get more reading in, I feel like I have been doing great with balancing, work, family, relaxing, gym, tv etc. But if I can get a little bit more reading in I would love it. 

That’s just a look into this past month, checking things off the to do list while also making lots of summer memories. For example, I had ice cream twice in one day because why not its summer?! Here’s to enjoying the last few weeks of it. What are you looking forward to getting done in the next few weeks?!

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Currently

Currently #6

Hello, hello!!

Happy Wednesday! I was off of work for a few days which was a great change of pace, and I really disconnected, it was great to relax, see family, and recharge. The only downside is that I ran behind on some blog work, so my life update post won’t be coming until next week, it will be worth the wait. In the meantime, I figured it was time for a “Currently” post and give you a look into life today. 

What I’m up to: Summer is in full swing, I have been trying to get outside every day for a bit whether it’s for a walk, reading, or relaxing. I’ve been trying to soak up summer between work. I’ve been loving keeping the family summer traditions alive while working. 

What I’m wearing: Give me all the dresses!!! Now that more places are opening up, I’ve been doing some more shopping. Marshalls and T.J. Maxx were great places to start looking. If you need some inspiration about work clothes, you can check out my blog post from last week, here! 

What I’m reading: I’ve been adding some new books to my reading list, I’m finishing up a book on interior design and I just started a fiction book called, The Paris Seamstress, a full book review is coming soon but it’s all about a Paris seamstress trying to make a name for herself during World War II, she must go through trials and tribulations to take care of herself while also following her dream. I’m halfway through it and loving it. 

What I’m Watching: I’m making my way through 30 Rock and it has been such a fun and light show to watch to have in the background or watch with little time. I also got hooked on Selling Sunset on Netflix, not only are the house gorgeous, but who doesn’t love a little reality tv, there’s drama, there’s laughs, and there’s gorgeous homes. It’s been something fun to break up the days.

What I’m Loving: I’m loving the summer weather and sunshine. One of my summer goals was to get outside 3-4 days a week and I have been doing really well with it so far. Being outside has boosted my mood and breaks up the work or home days. 

What Inspires Me: I have really been on a role of being  present, I’ve been inspired by the little things in life, like burning a candle while I work, having more windows open, taking time to read every day. These little moments bring me so much joy.

What I accomplished: I’ve been really happy with how I have been keeping up with friends, whether it’s through weekly facetime calls, going out to eat, or going on walks, making those relationships a pritority have been so helpful and really adds to the balance or work, family and friends.  

Goals Accomplished from Last Month: I have done a really good job at finding a great balance for this season of life, being productive, while also relaxing, spending time with family and outside. I often feel that we are pulled in so many directions or have different expectations placed on us whether its work, family, fitness, being healthy, taking time for ourselves, I love being organized so having a to do list every day helps me accomplish my goals while also have that balance.  

Goals for the New Month: I can’t wait for more things to reopen, I’m getting a long overdue haircut next week…I have never been so excited to get an appointment, also, gyms are getting reopened. I have tried to stay active at home, but there is nothing like being back in the gym. I can’t wait to get back. 

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Currently

Currently #4

Hey hey! Can you believe we are at the last Wednesday of the month?! April literally flew by, a good month but another one in limbo, just a mix of work and home. Nothing too exciting but a good month, none the less.

What I’m up to: Work has been the only reason I’m leaving my house, haha. The last time I physically went in a store was when I was visiting friends in Pittsburgh at the start of March. It’s been really nice to not have as many commitments and just focus on work and family time. It truly puts things in perspective of what’s important. 

What I’m wearing: I’ve been doing my best to wear bright colors or spring colors or patterns but it has still been hard when it’s still snowing or in the 30’s. It’s definitely been a challenge but I am ready for the warmer months ahead. 

What I’m reading: April was a good month for reading. I finished one book and now I’m onto a new book about interior design, something light and fun and it definitely takes your mind off of things and allows you for an escape. I do love a good book so I’m looking forward to getting into a new book series once things start to reopen. 

What I’m Watching: SO many shows. Haha! I jumped on the Tiger King train, it was definitely an experience. I also started watching 30 Rock for something fun and Evil on CBS from something more serious, plus trying to catch up on movies on Netflix. Reading and movies have bene keeping me busy on my downtime.

What I’m Loving: I’m loving the extra family time at home and the ability to relax and get my priorities  straight. Through this whole pandemic, this has showed me that you don’t need to be super busy all the time to be happy and successful. For me this has made me realize what’s important. 

What Inspires Me: When I finished the series, The Walk last month, this quotes really stood out to me. It made me realize the journey we all have in life and how even when things are thrown our way, like our current situation in the world, we still have a journey to complete and there’s still more to go. 

What I accomplished: This past month I have really tried to get into a healthier lifestyle. From eating better to going for walks outside a few times a week or doing at home workouts, I’m really trying to put myself first when it comes to my lifestyle. 

Goals Accomplished from Last Month: It’s been nice to really not have too full of a calendar. I’ve even had a few days off of work where I relaxed, watched tv, read, even took a nap. It’s the little things that we don’t typically get to do when we are on the go all the time. 

Goals for the New Month: Hopefully, life we start getting back to a new normal. It will be interesting to see what that looks like. I am also looking forward to more time outside, grilling, walks, being in the sun and starting to enjoy more summer aspects. I’m doing my best to focus on the good during the uncertain times. 

Another currently in the books, just an update about what I’m doing and how this quarantine has really put things in perspective for me and I think others feel the same. I think this pause on life has lead many to re-evaluate things in their lives which could open more opportunities for them. I hope this month brings your more clarity, something to smile about and something to look forward to. Have a great week!

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Fashion

Look of the Day #133

LOTD

Hey everyone! I have a special look of the day for you today! Today, I’m sharing my graduation look of the day! I wish I had better photos from the day, but I was too busy being present in the moment and enjoying the day. But, I did manage to snap a few quick shots of my outfit before my big day. I couldn’t let the day get by without documenting the look that I wore on graduation day.

I found this dress back in October at Marshall’s. I was hunting for something sophisticated but also something that I could wear more than once. I can wear this dress for Christmas, to work, or to a dinner party. I had looked at the mall and several stores and Marshall’s was my last stop, and I found the perfect dress there. 

I love the material of it and the color of green. I am always on the hunt for green accents and I was so excited I finally found one. My school’s color is green and gold so I couldn’t believe it when I found a dress that was green and gold. The dress is simple and sophisticated and I love the gold accents. I decided to add a green emerald ring and gold earrings. I lasted added a slight heel with a Mary Jane style. These are my favorite heels from Kelly and Katie at DSW. The gold buckle was my favorite part, it brought out the gold in my dress and cap and gown too! 

I loved my dress and I can’t wait to wear this outfit more through the winter months. Sorry for the short but sweet post, but I wanted to share this look with you all. The countdown to Christmas is on!

Enjoy the final push for the holidays. 

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Fashion

Look of the Day #132

LOTD

Hi All! 

Since my last post, I have finished finals, finished work and have been packing and saying my goodbyes at school. It’s been a different week with no set schedule or routine, by I am taking it for what it is and enjoying all my moments at school. I can’t believe that I am days away from graduation… it is quite a surreal feeling. One thing that I have taken away from my time at college is to always dress for success and the appropriate ways to dress for an interview or work. 


Today, I’m showing an outfit that is perfect for a job interview. It is professional and appropriate. Before, I get into the details, here are a few tips for dressing for an interview

-Keep your makeup simple and soft, don’t overdo it. You are going to get a job, not a date out with friends. 

-The same goes for outfit choice, you want to choose an outfit that’s modest and appropriate.

-Always be prepared for any interview, bring your resume and reference with you as well as something to write with and a planner to be prepared.

-Do your research on the company you are interviewing at and don’t forget some questions too.

Now, onto the outfit. This is perfect for an interview or first day of work. 

Job interview…check!

I got this outfit from all different stores, but they all fit great together.

 First, these pants are from Talbots, I like the cut and style of the pant. They are a straight cut that go right to the ankle, which allows you to wear a small pump or heel. I opted for the same heels I wore for Thanksgiving. A simple black heel with a gold buckle. Kelly and Katie are my go-to for good quality shoes. It looks professional but it also adds length to your overall outfit. 

My black top, is a short sleeveless blouse from Francesca’s Boutique. I often wear it in the summer, but I opted for the outfit since it matches the pants and the blazer. 

This blazer is one that I wear often for formal occasions. I got it from Marshalls a few years back and I have worn it with dresses, jeans, and dress pants to fit any outing that I have. 

When I wore this outfit, I felt put together and professional-two big things to keep in mind for job interviews and work. 

Well, I am hours away from graduation day. I am planning on enjoying my last few days as a college student before it’s time for something new. I will see you back here on Tuesday for a very special post.

Until then, xoxo

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Fashion

Look of the Day #130

LOTD

Hey everyone! Happy Thursday. I can’t believe that we are one week from Thanksgiving. I am so excited for all the food, family, and being home. Plus, I always think it’s important to take the time to be grateful for everything we have. No matter how tough the time get, there is always something to be thankful for. 

This outfit reminds me of fall. This is perfect for relaxing around the house, getting some black Friday shopping in or visiting family around the holidays. 

The off-white/cream and the cranberry colored pants go hand and hand together. They are the perfect blend. Okay, enough food analogies, clearly I am ready for Thanksgiving. Haha!

I got these burgundy pants from American Eagle, they look like pants, but they stretch and feel like leggings, they are the perfect mix. I love the color since it is so bold and colorful. Since the pants were loud, I decided for a muted top. I got this sweater from Polo Ralph Lauren. I sometimes layer this sweater with a polo underneath, but other times, I just wear it solo. I love how this outfit looks together. I lastly, finished off my outfit with my high black boots, I got these boots from Marshalls. They tie my outfit together and they are a neutral color too. 

This is such a fun and laid back outfit and perfect for the fall and Thanksgiving season. Have a fun weekend and enjoy the holiday season. 

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #118

LOTD

Hey guys! Happy Thursday! I am almost through with my first week of classes. Is it just me or does the first week of a new year/ job/ semester always seem to drag and be disorganized? I am looking forward to getting ahead on work this weekend and taking advantage of the long weekend too. 

Since it is almost Labor Day, it’s almost time for all the white to be put away until next spring. Today, I’m sharing one last summer white look of the day, that allows us to hold on for summer while also transitioning to cooler temperatures. 

Last of the whites for the summer

Let’s start with this white cotton dress. By far, one of my favorite purchases. It’s so easy to throw on for a date night or shopping trip, light weight for packing, and can be layered as well as dressed up or down. I purchased it from Old Navy a few years back and while I don’t wear it all the time, it’s nice to pull out to wear something different.

I wore it recently on a cooler morning, so I knew layering was a must. Instead of just a pink or navy sweater, I opted for a jean jacket. This is my favorite one from Old Navy. I love the way the cotton and jean jacket work well. It kept me warm while also being stylish. 

To finish off my look, I wore my go-to pink loafers. DSW is my go-to for all unique shoes, like these! I love the detail and design and they look so fun to add to solid outfit, not to mention that are very comfortable. 

Up close of the details in the dress and jacket

Although, I’m sad summer is coming to an end, I’m so glad we have warm weather here to stay! Just because we are putting white away doesn’t mean we are saying goodbye to summer outfits! Have an wonderful extra-long weekend!