Hello everyone! Happy December!! It’s officially the holiday season and I am here for it. From the Christmas movies, to decorations, to the gift buying. I love spending the next few weeks seeing friends and family and celebrating Christmas and New Year’s!
Today I’m sharing my Christmas Season Bucket List. I’m a girl who loves a good list and loves crossing things off of it even more. I’m using this bucket list as a guide of things I want or hope to do. I’m hoping that this gives me inspiration for date ideas and activities to do with friends or family. If you re looking for something fun to do during December, I hope this gives you inspiration or ideas.
Here’s my Christmas Bucket List:
Decorate
Watch the Santa Clauses on Disney Plus
Watch the new movie Spirited
Bake Cookies
Make a Gingerbread House
Christmas Shopping
Get a Christmas Tree and Decorate it
Exchange Gifts with Friends
Play in the Snow
See Christmas Lights
Enjoy Hot Cocoa and a Hot Cocoa bar
Watch Classic Christmas Movies
Watch Hallmark Movies
Mark Christmas Bark
Do a new Christmas Activity
Read Christmas Books
Play Christmas Music
Board Game Night
Read by the Fire
Ice Skating
Celebrate Christmas and New Years
That’s just a few ideas for some fun Christmas fun! Tell me what are your favorite Christmas traditions or things to do over the holidays?
Hello everyone! Happy Wednesday! If you are able to enjoy some time off around the Thanksgiving holiday. I hope the next few days are filled with delicious food, time with family or loved ones, making core memories and a time to rejuvenate.
After Thanksgiving, I know Christmas will be on the minds of many, if it isn’t already. Before Thanksgiving, I always like to take some extra time to reflect on my blessings and what I’m thankful for.
I have so many things to be grateful for this year. I am so lucky to have a loving and supportive family with me. I love that I am able to work in my hometown and I’m able to see my family every day. There’s no greater joy than coming home and enjoying a home cooked meal and talking about our day’s. This year we have traveled to new places and visited old ones. One of the best things about this year was our time together from family dinners, to day trips and just conversations and laughs together. There’s nothing more special than time spent with family. I’m also grateful to my furbabies too!
A snapshot from our time spent at the beach this summer.
My favorite puppies!
I’m grateful for my boyfriend brings out the best in me every day. He who pushes me to work my hardest and supports me in everything I do. From my job to my blog, he’s an incredible supporter. We have created so many wonderful memories from walks to adventures, trying new recipes and long drives. Our time together is one of the things I treasure most of all.
One of the many places we have got walking.
I’m so lucky to have wonderful friends in my life. From friends from preschool, to high school friends and one from college. I’m grateful that I have stayed in touch and continued to create memories with. From meeting halfway for dinners, to monthly facetime dates, walks and coffee hangs. As an adult, life can get busy so I try to make a point to put friendships first by checking in on friends when they have busy weeks, or making a suggestion for a favorite book or movie. I always love when I have friends who check in on me and support me and lift me up when I need an extra hand.
I’m grateful for a job that I love. I enjoy learning new things every day and being challenged and growing every day. I love being able to work and live in my hometown and make an impact every day.
A glimpse into some of the places my job takes me.
After illness being a topic of conversation for the past few years, I am so grateful for my good health, my family’s health and my friend’s health. Waking up every day and being healthy is something I don’t take for granted. Life can get busy and our priorities can shift but reminding ourselves what’s important is something we need to remind ourselves more.
Savoring the little moments in life, like fall drives.
I’m thankful for all the challenging moments in life, for the long or stressful moments because it makes me stronger and makes me a better person. I know I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for the growing pains or the rollercoaster moments. All those little things got me to where I am today.
I am grateful for all the things that bring me joy! From curling up with a good book, to baking food for ones that I love, and enjoying heartfelt conversations with family and friends. I’m grateful for how I feel when I finish a hard workout or a long walk. I’m grateful for the satisfaction I feel when I prepare a meal or dessert for my family. I’m grateful for the experience of getting lost in a book or a movie. I’m grateful for resting after a productive day. I’m thankful for seeing the sunrise every morning and watching it set.
Finding hobbies like cooking and baking bring me so much joy!
Life is so precious and it’s made up so many little moments. At the end of the day, that’s what I’m most grateful for, all the moments, big and small.
Feeling extra grateful this year!
Over the next few days, I hope you take the time to reflect on what you are most grateful for.
September flew by, from the end of summer to the beginning of fall, it’s been a busy month. It’s time for another Currently, a glimpse into life over the past few weeks.
What I’ve been up to: This month has been filled with saying goodbye to summer and hello to fall! I started the month with some end of season baseball games and ended the month with the start of fall walks and drinks. I created my fall bucket list where you can check out here. It makes me excited for the new season and the new adventures it brings.
Saying goodbye to summer by enjoying some summer walks
And baseball games
My first Cleveland Guardians game happened this month!
What I’m wearing: I’ve started to bring out the leggings and jeans for the fall and winter season, but they have been paired with short sleeve tops. In addition to bringing out the pants, I’ve also been pairing shorts with long sleeve tops for days that may start out cool and turn hot or vice versa.
A fun transitional outfit. My new top from Old Navy paired with leggings.
What I’m reading: I’ve been on a roll with good books as summer winded down. I read the Perfect Couple which was a new to me book. I really loved the mystery aspect and the description of Nantucket. As we make our way into October, I’m looking forward to lighting more candles and cozying up with a blanket and reading more. Any fall books I should dive into?
A new favorite author!
What I’m watching: Fall TV is back! I’m excited to catch up on some of my favorite shows that are either back or will be coming back soon. I’m a big fan of Grey’s Anatomy and that returns next week (!!), I’m excited to see what this season has to offer and some of the changes that are expected to come along with it too! I’ve also been making my way through Sweet Magnolia’s. I didn’t watch too much tv or movies in the summer since I try to be outside as much as possible. We’ve had a few rainy days and evenings, so I’ve been watching some older movies. I watched When Harry Met Sally and it was the best way to spend an afternoon.
A new favorite show!
What I’m loving: I’ve been enjoying spending lots of quality time with friends. Over the past month, I’ve gotten dinner or caught up via facetime with all my local friends and some of my out of town friends. It was so good to get some quality conversations and time with my friends. Whether it was a local dinner, traveling half way to see a friend or a facetime from hundreds of miles away, spending time with friends is so important and something I’ve been loving over the past few weeks. I’ve also been enjoying baking and fall walks!
I made snicker doodles for the first time. yum!
What Inspires me: As the temperatures drop, I’ve been loving lots of cooking and baking. Here’s some of the recent things I’ve made.
I’ve made homemade pizza this month
A new chicken salad with chicken, celery, grapes and pecans.
Homemade banana muffins
Cherry tomato chicken and pasta
What I accomplished: This past month, I’ve spent lots of time outside, time with friends and time with my favorite hobbies. From reading to walks and time with my family. It’s been a great month.
The sweetest treat after dinner with friends.
Goals from last month: I got a lot in from wrapping up summer and starting some fall fun and crossing things off my fall bucket list. Plus, I got in a few day trips, including Cleveland, with a day to the zoo and a baseball game.
Goals for this month: This month I look forward continue to enjoy fall, from leaves to walks, and football. I can’t wait to try some new fall recipes, especially with apples and fall veggies. I’m also working towards some new fitness goals, by eating healthier and working out more.
Enjoying a sushi spread while soaking up the last bit of warm weather.
That’s just a look at life right now. Tell me, what are some of your highlights from the past month!
Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! I can’t believe we are at the end of August. The older I get the more I feel time moving faster and faster. Although, I no longer go to school and can still enjoy outdoor fun well into September and even October, the summer season feels like it’s winding down with kids heading back into the classroom.
I had a packed full summer filled with lots of walks, reading by the pool, seeing friends and family and grilling. As I do every summer, I’m sharing my summer bucket list with a look at everything I accomplished.
Heritage Festivals/ Fairs- I got the chance to go to fairs for work for different stories but also managed to head to some with my family. We went to a community festival one day after work and enjoyed some classic fair food! Yum!
A local Cherry Festival
A local community fair
Day trips- day trips became a favorite for me this summer! From Pittsburgh to Columbus, shopping trips and visiting family! I made the most of weekends by enjoying day trips!
Mantees at the Columbus
Pittsburgh day trip
Zoos-speaking of zoos, I love animals and heading to zoos. I got to go to some of my favorites plus try some new ones! Here’s a collection of my favorite zoo memories this summer!
The aquarium at the Pittsburgh Zoo
Beach Day- I’m so lucky to have a beach so close to us. I made my way to the beach for walks, picnics, and ice cream runs this summer. I also got to head to some new beaches too when I had a day trip to Columbus! The lake and beach was so pretty and calm.
A beach in ColumbusBeach days at home
Pool Day- I enjoyed lots of days off or evening by the pool, whether it was swimming, snacking or reading. Days by the pool were a favorite this summer by far!
Fresh drinks by the pool
Celebrate Fourth of July-The Fourth of July is always a fun way to celebrate the family and our nation. It’s one of my favorite days of the summer. From the food, to fireworks and family, it doesn’t get any better!
Fireworks on the Fourth!
Time with family- I got in so much fun family time this summer from just eating dinner, doing day trips or our mini vacation. As we all get older, it shows how important family truly is!
Summer bonfires
White Turkey-this is a summer tradition to enjoy a trip at a favorite restaurant of ours. I made the trip twice this summer and enjoyed the food both times!
Sara’s- another summer tradition to enjoy a favorite restaurant at home, from burgers to ice cream, it’s so good to savor those traditions!
See college friends- From a college friend’s wedding to FaceTime calls and a girls weekend, I got to see so many college friends. The only downside was that I didn’t take any pictures! But it was so nice just to be in the moment.
Go Someplace New- I went to Columbus for the first time which was so fun!
Zoo Fun!
Meal by the Water- I enjoyed my birthday dinner on the water and I had family visiting and we brought them to eat by the water! So pretty!
Sweet summertime!
Food tour- Although, I didn’t get to enjoy a food crawl/ tour, I still indulged a lot!
Fish Tacos-another summer favorite!
More summer snacks!
Picnicing- Picnicing was a summer staple for me this summer! From grilling to sandwiches and even snacks. Here’s a look at some picnic ideas!
Grilling after walks
Picnicing at State Parks
Snack picnics
Winery/Wine Tasting-While I didn’t go wine tasting, it’s a perfect fall activity that I’m looking forward to!
Happy Hour/ Ice Cream Hour- I did happy hour with some friends on a weekend which was fun! I also enjoyed so much ice cream this summer from favorite shops to at home! It’s one of the sweetest parts of summer!
Food truck treats!
State/National Parks- I explored so many new and old parks this summer. I loved getting out and enjoying nature, taking it all in and disconnecting for a bit! Much needed
Walks after work
Sweet summertime in New York.
John Russell Brewing- While I didn’t get to this restaurant in the summer, I plan to go once it’s colder out and there’s not as much to do outdoors.
Mini Golf- One of the first things I did this summer! A great way to kick off June!
Mini golf days
Kayaking- Although I didn’t get to it this summer, I still made sure I got outdoors as much as I could.
Amusement Park- I spent an afternoon at an amusement park and water park and I felt like a child once again from the slides to the rides! So fun!
Outdoor Concert- I enjoyed heading to some live shows this summer. It was great to be by the water and enjoy live music during the week!
Concerts by the water
A few other things I got to enjoy this summer that wasn’t on my summer bucket list include a baseball game, strawberry picking and lots of baking
Hi all! Happy Wednesday! It makes me sad to think that we are already at the end of July. This summer is flying by. With summer more than half way through, I’m doing my best to make the most out of August and September with the nice, warm weather before the seasons change!
As always, it’s time for Currently, a look at my life over the past month. These past four weeks have been filled with walks, picnics, pool days, grilling and indulging in all the summer foods and friends!
What I’ve Been Up To: I’ve been doing everything in my power to be outside, from walks on weekends, to eating meals outside, going for ice cream dates and just reading outside. Our summer season feels so short, so I try my best to take advantage of the sunshine, blue skies and warm weather. I’ve also enjoyed a lot of time at home with events slowing down, it’s been nice to have a more open schedule.
I’ve enjoyed lots of summer walks in the morning, afternoon and night.
I’ve also enjoyed grilling at the parks after a long walk
What I’m Wearing: I’ve been teasing it for a while but NEXT WEEK will be my summer dress round up. It’s been so fun to try new dresses and styles all summer long. In other clothing choices, I’ve been wearing lots of short sets for walks, some t-shirt dresses for evenings out and then I’ve been rotating some graphic tees as well. I like to keep it simple in the summer with easy things to throw on so no matter what I’m doing I’m comfortable, especially on days off.
An example of an outfit that I would wear on a day off!
What I’m Reading: I finished The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue and I didn’t know what to expect about this girl who never ages. I really enjoyed following the story as it begins in the 1700’s and continues to present day. There’s mystery, romance, suspense, and some magic too. When Adeline makes a deal in the 1700’s it has lasting effecst that she was never expecting. I love how the book jumps through time periods and you get to see her in different places and times. Even if you don’t read this book, I encourage you to read a book from a genre you typically don’t read, you may surprised about what you enjoy.
I also finished The Paris Library this past month. This historical fiction book goes back and forth between the 1940’s in Paris and the 1980’s in Montana. It follows the story of a woman who works in a library during World War II and then flashes forward to her life in the 1980’s living in the United States. Again, there’s some mystery and intrigue and some romance. I love how the book goes back and forth between time periods too!
What I’m Watching: I jumped on the band wagon and binged “The Summer I Turned Pretty” on Amazon Prime. It was a great coming of age series that had a lot more depth than I was anticipating, there was lots of lightheartedness but also drama and suspense. Definitely worth the watch this summer.
I’ve also been watching another drama, “Maid” on Netflix. It tells the story of a young woman who hits rock bottom and looks to start over by working as a maid. It’s definitely a heavier show, but really good.
Besides tv shows, I went to see the new Elvis movie and I was blown away. I really enjoyed the storyline, the iconic music and learning about Elvis. It was worth seeing it on the big screen.
What I’m Loving: LOTS OF WALKS! I’ve been doing my best on my days off to take longers walks. I’ve ventured to Pittsburgh for a day trip to the zoo and a park.
One of my favorite exhibits at the zoo.
And a walk by the water.
I’v traveled to Bemus Point, New York for a morning at a State Park there and then enjoying the beauty.
Sweet summertime in New York.
I’ve also enjoyed fairs, festivals, live music and food trucks this summer. All things on my bucket list too!
Local fairs
And festivals
Concerts by the water
Food truck treats!
I also went strawberry picking last month and made a lot of different tasty treats with my haul.
Such a fun activity!
I made strawberry jam, strawberry and lemon bread and then strawberry shortcake too! Yum!
The haul!
Strawberry jam!
Strawberry and lemon bread
Strawberry shortcake
What Inspires Me: Summertime means fresh flowers. I’ve been enjoying talking long walks to cut flowers to put in vases around the house. I always enjoy having the smell of fresh flowers in my room and I’ve enjoyed adding them to other rooms in the house too.
Fresh flowers from the garden
What I Accomplished: After a busy first month of summer, I’ve been happy that I got to slow down more this month. There’s been more afternoons by the pool, more mornings spent reading and late nights visiting with friends.
A summer stroll closer to home!
Goals from Last Month: I had a wonderful time celebrating the Fourth of July with family. I also got to see some relatives from out of town which was lots of fun. In addition to family, I have been enjoying time with friends. From dinners to walks and ice cream runs, it’s been great to get outside and spend time with friends. I’ve also been lucky to see friends I haven’t seen in a long time. It was so great to catch up in person and the visit was long overdue! I am looking forward to more time with friends next month.
Fireworks on the Fourth!
Goals for this Month: I really want to cross off the final things on my summer bucket list. I’ve been doing well so far, but there’s a few things I’m looking forward to checking off-some of them are new things to me too! I’m also really just looking forward to relaxing and enjoying summer days and nights too. Soaking up summer is what it’s all about.
Sweet summertime!
How are you planning on spending the last full month of summer? I know you can catch me outside! Let me know how you will be spending summer in the comments below!
Happy Wednesday. I hope your week has been filled with sunshine, warm weather, and all the spring vibes (or something like that).
Today, I have a currently lined up for your reading. I know it’s a bit earlier in the month, but I have an extra special post set up for next week
Without further ado, here’s a look into what I’ve been up to this past month.
What I’m up to: I’ve been LOVING all the warm weather. Last week we had weather in the 70s all week long. I’ve been trying to get outside more after work, whether it’s for a walk or just to sit and read. I’ve also been enjoying making lighter and summery meals.
Seeing flowers and plants and trees in bloom brings a smile to my face.
A few weeks ago I made a lemon chicken sheet pan dinner which was so flavorful and easy. I got the recipe from Mix and Match Mama and I really enjoyed cooking it.
A look at my meal from a few weeks ago.
I also celebrated Mother’s Day with my family and enjoyed dinner with my family and a trip to the zoo.
A few shots of our trip to the zoo.
Such an array of colors.
I’ve also managed to enjoy some friend time over the past few weeks which was much needed.
What I’m wearing: I’m always on the look for work dresses and clothes. I often stop into stores like Marshall’s of TJ Maxx just to see if there’s ever new finds. I lucked out big time during my last time in finding affordable and fashionable clothes. As far as casual clothes, I’ve been able to break out some shorts and t-shirts which just makes me happy that warm weather is here and here to stay.
I also got a fresh trim for summer which was much needed!
What I’m reading: I finished Not A Happy Family and wow-what a good book. I couldn’t it down. I’m typically not a thriller lover but this was soooo good. A great mix of mystery and thriller and not too scary.
I’m currently reading, Paris is Always a Good Idea and it’s the opposite of Not A Happy Family, it’s light and fluffy and will make you want to travel. It’s such a good call for summer.
What I’m watching: I started and finished season 5 of Selling Sunset, it’s such a guilty pleasure, I started to watch it when it came out for the real estate, but now I watch for the drama. Haha!
On a more serious note, I watched The Anatomy of a Scandal and loved it. I finished it in one weekend. Another great cliffhanger mini series with a great cast.
What I’m Loving: ALL the WARM and SPRING weather. That’s all. I love being outside and enjoying ice cream and walks after work and not having to wear all the layers.
I even had my first hot dog grilling of the season which just gets me in the summer mode.
What Inspires Me: I’ve been planning a few fun summer plans and excursions and it’s making me excited for summer and adventures and more hikes and times with friends and family and maybe even a trip or two. I’ll be sharing my summer bucket list at the start of June!
I’ve already been to the beach once for a walk this summer and I can’t wait to head back more.
What I Accomplished: I enjoyed celebrating my mom for Mother’s Day at the beginning of the month and I had a few other special birthdays too. We enjoyed a fun family meal to celebrate my mom.
The process
The finished product
I still have a few graduations and my birthday to celebrate so I’m excited for those in the coming weeks.
Goals from Last Month: I’ve been really good at seeing friends consistently who live in town and making time for friends out of town. I also got a lot of start of spring/summer must dos done like different odds and ends that feels good to start a new month on the right foot. I also took a day trip with my mom and brother to the National Comedy Center in Jamestown which was so fun and I learned a lot too.
A look at the iconic I Love Lucy set.
And some scripts from The Office.
Goals for Next Month: I’m looking forward to starting my summer bucket list and enjoying time outside with my family. I have a graduation and some day trips planned to see friends so I’m looking forward to that. I’m also excited to spend time with friends and family and enjoy more time grilling and swimming and trying to take it slow? I know, easier said than done. Overall, I’m just really excited for summer!
Fresh lemonade and a good book. The perfect combo!
That’s a look at my life today. Lots of family time, time outdoors and good food. How’s life been looking for you the past month? Let me know.
Happy Wednesday! I had to check the calendar twice when I saw that next week is May. 2022 is flying by. As this month comes to a close, here’s a look at what’s been keeping me busy these past few weeks.
What I’m Up To: The weather has been getting warmed despite a day here or there with some snow flurries, yes, even in April. I’ve been trying to take advantage of the spring-like days by taking walks with friends, heading to our local zoo for a walk and celebrating Easter.
Heading to the zoo was always a favorite childhood activity and I still loving going as an adult.
It was nice to enjoy a family Easter dinner and take part in family traditions like dyeing eggs.
Dyeing eggs is always a favorite Easter activities and I still love doing it today.
All fun activities to get into the spring spirit.
What I’m Wearing: I keep trying to find opportunities to wear spring-like dresses and florals, but it’s been tricky with funky weather. I wore this dress for Easter, which I’ve had for years, but it was in the 40’s outdoors. At least I was trying to channel the warm weather even if it didn’t feel like it outside.
The best part of the dress? POCKETS!
What I’m Reading: LOTS of good books. I finished Business Minded by Carly Riordan and learned so much from it. I would recommend it if you are looking to start a business or turn your passion into a career.
I’m a big fan of The Office and I read this book, which I found to be equally entertaining and informative. The book goes through each season and is made up of interviews from cast and crew members. Definitely a good read for any Office fan.
I’m currently reading Everything After by Jill Santopolo. I saw it on display at the library and fell in love with the cover and I’m falling in love with the book. It tells the story of a woman and her two loves in life and if how she decides who is her true love. Yes, it’s a chick flick but we all need that every once in a while.
What I’m Watching: I finished Downton Abbey the series and proceeded to watch the first movie and I can’t wait to see the second movie next month. It was such a good show to escape to during the winter months. I just started Mad Men and even though I’m only a few episodes into it, I’m loving the period drama.
What I’m Loving: I’m really enjoying the fresh flowers and the hints of spring in the air and outdoors. Although, we still have a ways to go until we have consistent warm weather, I’m taking what I can with spring like weather. I’m also loving the spring decorations this time of year and the planning of summer activities. I know the calendar will fill up fast, but I’m looking forward to making plans to see family and friends.
Fresh blooms outside.
What Inspires Me: I keep saving different activities and ideas for things to do in the spring and summer months, so I’m looking forward to making them happen. Pinterest is always my go-to for coming up with fun family or date ideas. Sometimes, I do go down the rabbit hole when it comes to Pinterest but I always end up with lots of ideas.
Fresh flowers to get me into the spring spirit. My post from last week has more about the power of fresh flowers in your home.
What I accomplished: I’ve been doing better at making time for friends. I try to see at least one friend per week whether it’s for coffee or a walk or dinner. It can be hard to see friends with our busy work schedules or commitments, but I always look forward to quality time with friends. There’s nothing better than stepping away from the craziness of life and catching up with friends, whether they are from childhood, high school, or college.
Goals from Last Month: I really enjoyed celebrating Easter with my family and despite chillier days, I’m glad I’ve been able to get outdoors when I could. I’m hoping this trend continues as temperatures get warmer. I’m also looking forward to making more summer meals too. These past few weeks have been busier so I haven’t had a chance to do too much cooking but I’m looking forward to doing more cooking in the summer.
A look at our Easter dinner place setting.
Goals for Next Month: May is a big month. I have graduations to attend, birthdays to celebrate (including my own) and a few plans with friends already on the calendar. Plus, summer is around the corner. I have a feeling it’s going to be a good month. I’m also looking forward to more walks outside. Here’s a snapshot of my stats from a day when I got lots of exercise in.
That’s a look into life this past month. Let me know below what you are looking forward to next month and the highlight of April below!
I love the second month of the year, purely to celebrate Valentine’s Day! When the winter months seems to drag on with no need in sight, it’s always fun to celebrate love and get into the holiday spirit in the midst of a long and cold winter. Whether you are celebrating February 14 with your sweetheart of Galentine’s day on February 13 with your girlfriends, there’s always a reason to get into the holiday spirit and celebrate the big and little things in life.
Speaking of girlfriends, today we are talking about prioritizing friendships!
One of my goals for 2021 was to prioritize my friendships, the pandemic made it hard to see friends and catch up in person, but no matter how far the distance, it’s still important to make those friendships a priority and I think I did my best to make thta happen for the past year and I plan to keep it going in the year ahead.
Here’s three ways to make sure you are getting the must-have friend time in:
-Set up FaceTime dates This is a great idea for long distance friendships. It can be hard to make a trip for a day or a weekend getaway to visit friends especially if your days off don’t line up. However, setting up a monthly or biweekly FaceTime date or call is an easy solution. During the pandemic, I was really good with doing regular FaceTime calls with friends but as things got back to normal peoples schedules got busier too and it was harder to have regular FaceTime dates. However by finding a time that works good for you and friend whether it’s monthly or weekly and sticking to it, ensures you are staying in touch with friends and getting that quallity time in with them. My one friend Sydney and I started doing monthly FaceTime dates in January of 2021. We’ve been great at following through on this and only missed one month! We decided on the last Friday of every month we would FaceTime to catch up with our jobs, actviites, and adventures. In the summer, we did a few meet ups in person which was so fun, but monthly FaceTimes have worked great for us. I put it in my calendar on my phone and the event repeats every month, so I know on Friday nights, once a month, it’s FaceTime date time with Sydney!
-Scheduled coffee or dinner dates For friends a bit closer to home, maybe a coffee, dinner or walk date is more convenient. Whenever I’m planning out my months and weeks, I always write a list of monthly goals, from work, to personal. One of my goals is often friend dates. For some of my local friends, I always like to make it a point to see them in person once a month, whether it be a coffee break in the morning, a after work dinner date, or even a walk when the weather is nice. Schedules can get busy so it’s important to make a point to get it on the calendar for friend dates. I’ll even set a reminder for send a text to remember make plans with friends. My friends and I love to support local, so we try to make it a point to shop local when it comes to our food choices. Even with friends who live just a few blocks away, work schedules can become hectic which is why getting a plan set-up early on is key. Even if you have a big group of friends and can’t get everyone to meet up at the same time, a one on one date, or a smaller group is better than none, plus it also allows you more quality time with friends.
Grabbing a meal with a friend is a perfect way to catch up.
If you don’t have enough time for a meal, maybe a coffee break is better!
-Find common activities
This is such a fun way to stay in touch with friends and try new things out. FInd common activities or hobbies for you and your friends. Last year, a few of my high school pals and I did a book club, we would each choose a book, read it and discuss over Facetime. This was a great way for us to catch up and get our reading in (a goal we all had last year-read more!). This activity opened my eyes to new genres and authors. If reading isn’t for you, maybe try a fitness class if that’s one of your resolutions. You can try out new workouts, get a good sweat in and enjoy time with friends. The best of both worlds. If you are looking to get a big more creative, maybe try tackling sewing or scrapbooking, for find a hobby that you and your friends can enjoy and get a finished product at the end.
Finding a common interest, like reading among friends is what worked for me.
Or if you are looking for a way to get exercise, try going for a walk.
Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! Merry Christmas! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas with family and loved ones. I always love the time between Christmas and New Year’s, whether you are off for a break or working, it’s always a nice time to relax, catch your breath and take some extra time to reflect on the year.
I wanted to take some time to reflect on the past year and my resolutions. For a quick recap, you can read my post here about my 2021 Resolutions. My word of the year was intentional. I wanted to be more intentional with my time with friends and family and more intentional with the things I put time and energy in. I wrote it on a post-it note in my planner and moved it from month to month as a reminder for myself. Overall, I think I did pretty well with focusing on family and friends when I spent time with them. I also prioritized what things I did during my free time too.
My first of three resolutions for this year was to be more intentional with family and friends. I found myself doing a lot of multi-tasking and wanted to be more focused on one thing at a time. I did well with spending time with family and a lot of this had to do with my new work schedule. I now get to spend a lot more time with family and do my best to put the phone down and be present, but there’s always room for improvement.
My second resolution was less screen time. I did well by setting up times on my phone to have my phone shut off to focus on work or housework. But there were times that I was tired by the end of the day and just aimlessly scrolled, not the best use of time, but sometimes you need a brain break. That will continue to be something I work on in the new year.
My third resolution was to be more consistent with friends. I definitely made more time for friends by setting up times to do things with friends. The pandemic put a halt to a lot of social activities so by really setting aside time for friends, I was able to maintain my friendships I hold dear to my heart. For example, I started the year out with my virtual book club with my high school friends, Maddie and Ryan. I also set up time for monthly facetime dates with friends (more on that on a post in the new year).
Stay tuned for my goals for 2022 next week!
Now, for a quick year in review. I had a lot of high hopes for 2021 and a lot of them came to fruition.
I was able to spend lots of time with friends, either in person or via facetime or zoom.
Seeing my best friend Danielle was a highlight of the year.
I also got in a lots of day trips to new places for hiking and walking, from State Parks, to National Parks, new trails and old spots.
Going on walks makes the winter more manageable.
Fall weeks are good for the soul.
I also tried new things like ice skating and have loved it. I went three times in the past three weeks.
Skating on the bay was such a fun experience.
Skating in Buffalo.
I got to travel with my family and get some great one on one time with loved ones.
Family time with my brothers on vacation.
I got a chance to stand by one of my best friend’s side as she got married.
Getting wedding ready!
I got lots of fall walks in and got to celebrate the start of the holiday season.
Apple picking was one of the fall walks and adventures I embarked on.
The best part of the year was getting my Covid-19 vaccine.
Work has been busy this year, but I’m so lucky with all the opportunties I’ve been given and all the things I’ve learned along the way.
Covering different stories every day makes my job so fulfilling.
I’m so lucky to have a loving family and supportive friends along for the ride too.
Hey guys…happy Wednesday! We are slowly but surely making our way through November. These past few weeks have been filled with work, catching up on reading, going on fall drives and cozing up with warm drinks and lots of baking…all my favorite things!
As we get closer and closer to Thanksgiving I want to take some time share what I’m thankful for. I do this kind of post every year and while the list stays the same it’s always a good reminder and it puts things in perspective of what’s important.
I could spend all day working on this list, from my loving family, supportive families, a great job, food on the table, my faith etc, but I wanted to highlight a few specific things I’m thankful for this year.
-Covid-19 vaccine.
After being in this pandemic for almost two years, I was so thankful I was able to get my vaccine as an extra layer of protection against the virus.
Such a milestone this year.
-Seeing friends
Thanks to vaccines, I’ve been able to see more friends this year, from high school and college. Weekly coffee dates are back, traveling for day trips were a big hit this summer and being able to be in one of my best friend’s weddings this summer was the cherry on top.
Seeing friends in person has been huge!
-Growing in my job
I’m so thankful I was able to learn and grow in my role at work. I’ve seen a change in myself with how I tell stories and in my confidence. I am always looking for ways to grow and I’m so lucky to have so many wonderful mentors and co-workers to help me grow and learn every day.
I’ve grown a lot in front of and behind the camera.
-My Health
It goes without saying but I’m so thankful I’ve been able to stay healthy amid the pandemic. In these trying times I’m so grateful for my good health and for the good health of my loved ones too, from family to friends, co-workers and neighbors, these past few years have taught me what’s important in life.
I’m so grateful for my health
-My Support System
From my incredible family to my friends, my co-workers and relatives, there have been so many times this year that I’ve been reminded of how lucky I am. Whether it’s my family moving around dinner times to accommodate an early morning wake-up, my friends who listen to me when I need to talk or take me on an adventure when I need to clear my mind, or my co-workers who help me grow in my job. Not a day goes by when I’m not thankful for all the incredible people in my life.
I wouldn’t be here without my family!
I do these kinds of posts every year to remind me how lucky I am and how grateful I am for all my blessings. I have so much to be thankful for in my life.
I hope you and your families have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
