Tag: happiness

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Fabulous living

Seven Years of Blogging

Hello all!

Happy Wednesday! I hope you are having a great week, we made it halfway to the weekend!

I am celebrating my blog anniversary this month.

I started to create this little corner on the internet seven years ago as I was finishing up my first year of college. I had just gone through one of the biggest years of growth and change. I moved out of my home, met all new people and went through all the growing pains of being a freshman in college. I started this blog as a creative hobby and outlet and it has grown so much since I wrote my first post. 

One of my first posts

I shared looks of the days, packing tips, my fitness journey, things to organize, and personal topics like eating alone.

Becoming a runner

Now, I share more about my weekly favorites, recipes, and adventures.

Trips to NYC for a day adventure

Over the last seven years, I have gone through college, started my first job, made new friends, lost friends, gone on trips, moved back home, found new hobbies and met my boyfriend.

Time with friends

I’ve shared a lot about myself through my blog, from homesickness, to landing my dream job, and staying true to myself.

So many fashion posts

I’ve also been able to share my favorite things; from beauty products, to fashion trends, travel, books and entertainment. 

A few books from my collection at home.

Every year, I like to look back and see what posts stood out to me the most. This year, the biggest moments come in the form of 24 hour day trips, starting new hobbies in the form of running, playing piano and growing a garden, and being more sure of myself. 

The fruits of my labor

Your 20s can be a challenging time of figuring out your career, being an adult, staying in touch with friends, being involved with family, navigating a relationship and discovering yourself. I really feel like I have found who I am and how I want to live my life over the past year. 

I always say I will blog until it doesn’t bring me joy, but every day I still get excited about writing what I’m feeling and sharing my life with you all. I keep a running list of topics to write about, or favorite things to share, or even stories that I hope can help others who may feel how I feel.

I always learn so much from other bloggers and women and they inspire me every day and make my day a bit brighter. 

I hope I can do that for at least one person. Whether this is the first post of mine you are reading or you have read over 500 of them, thank you for being here and reading what’s on my mind and heart. I so appreciate every read, follow, and comment. 

Thank you for being on this journey with me and I can’t wait to see what the next year holds. Cheers to seven years!!!!

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Fabulous living

Twenty-Five

Twenty-five, a quarter of a century, a full blown adult.

These are a few of the things that have been running through my mind over the last few weeks. 

Let me back up, I turn 25 next week and it’s a milestone birthday filled with all the emotions. Excitement, anticipation, nostalgia, and a bit of fear too. 

Growing up, I always thought when you turned 25, you were officially an adult. No longer a child, teenager, or even young adult, but a full-fledged adult, and you had to have it all figured out.

Spoiler alert, I’m almost 25 and I don’t have it all figured out and I’m okay with that, in fact, I’m glad I don’t have it all figured out. I’ve learned you don’t have to have it all sorted out quite yet.

Your twenties are all about growing and learning and taking risks and seeing where life takes you. My first half of my twenties were filled with graduating college, moving back home, starting a career, going through a pandemic, getting promoted, making new friends and meeting my boyfriend, that’s a lot of change for five years.

But, let me let you in on a secret, I have loved every bit of it, even the stressful days or the moments filled with unknowns. I’ve learned so much about myself and from those around me and I’m so happy where I am today. I’ve learned to savor every moment spent with family, whether it’s a major holiday or a Tuesday night dinner (just ask any of my brothers, I always comment how special it is that we are all together-and it drives them nuts.) I’ve also learned to be open to new opportunities, but to trust my gut and how it’s okay to say no to things if they don’t feel right. I’ve learned friendship works both ways and some friendships aren’t meant to last forever, some are only meant for a season, while others are forever.

Most importantly, I’ve learned to savor and love the little things in life, whether it’s a morning walk, a coffee with a friend or even going through an evening routine. The little things in life are often the things you will remember the most.

Now as I embark on the second half of my twenties, I am eager to continue to see how I can grow more and what things I can learn about myself. I’m also interested to see where I will be at age 30. Will I be married? have children? Living in the same city? So much can change in five years, but I also now so many things will still be the same. I know I will have a loving family by my side, I know I will have supportive friends and a caring boyfriend. I’m excited to see where these next few years will take me and how I will grow and change. I always like reflecting as big milestones come and go to see how far I have come and what I’ve learned. 

As far as what this year brings, I don’t have any big goals for this next year, I want to keep doing what I’m doing. I want to keep working hard at my job, putting family and relationships first, making sure I’m taking care of my body and self with different hobbies and I want to make sure I’m taking every opportunity available.  Because my birthday falls in May, I’m halfway through my 2023 New Year’s Resolutions and so far they have been going well, definitely room for improvement in some areas, but I have seen progress in other realms.

My birthday falls on Memorial Day and I’ll be working so I’m not quite sure what the day will hold, but I’m excited for what year 25 will bring!

Here’s to another year! Happy Birthday to Me!

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Fabulous living

Six Years Later

Over 400 posts, almost 50 Currently’s and counting, new link ups, like Friday Favorites and Let’s Look, outfits for all the seasons, home decor and favorite things from books, shows, and movies, I have covered a lot of ground over the past six years. 

I started this blog as a way to start a hobby in college, a creative outlet that let me work on my writing, document my feelings and memories of day to day college life and stay in touch with family and friends. It’s been six years and this blog has become so much more than just a creative outlet. Here’s one of my first posts.

A lot has changed since I first blogging.

Since I began this blog, I learned a lot in the classroom, took life changing trips, graduated college, moved home, landed my dream job, got promoted, made new friends and reconnected with old friends, have an incredible boyfriend and grown as a better daughter, girlfriend and friend.

Happy Graduation Day
Heading out for a job interview
Getting ready for work.

I’ve learned to take risks, go with my gut, say yes, but also be okay with saying no, be flexible and make self care a priority.

Skating in the city!

When I reflect on this last year, the word stable keeps coming to mind. I’m stable with my career and friends, I have a good routine, I have been prioritizing my health and hobbies and I have been having fun too. 

My mom and I after a candle making course.
A show in the city at night!

Some of the past highlights of this past year for me and my blog include launching my Friday Favorites as I link up with other bloggers every Friday.

Traveling to new places in the summer to visit friends, spending quality time with family and embracing my community by taking advantage of places and events in my backyard.

 I read so many different genres of books and shared many of them with you on here.

Some of my books that I’ve read and still need to read.

I tried new beauty products and changed up my wardrobe.

The final look using all my products!

I also tried lots of recipes.

I feel like this past year, I have really found my groove in who I am and what I want in life. College was a time of constant change and growth and then I started my job and the pandemic hit and we spent years navigating that and now it feels like the dust has settled and I’m content and SO happy.

At the beginning of this year, I said my quote was to embrace change and so far, I haven’t had to embrace too much change and I’m okay with that. I don’t know what the second half of the year will hold, but I know I will be taking you all along with me. 

Whether you have been following along since my first post all those years ago or you found my blog through a link up, I’m so happy you are here and I’m so honored you took the time to spend some time reading my words. 

I truly appreciate each and every one of you.

Here’s to another year of writing, learning, growth, change and blogging.

As always, we are taking it day by day.

Elspeth

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Fabulous living

What I’m Thankful For

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.

Happy Thanksgiving!

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Fabulous living

Ditch the List and Live

Hi everyone, happy Wednesday!

Today’s post is not what I had planned, but a thing called life happened. I had to readjust and then I realized this post was perfect for today.

I LOVE LISTS. I have to do lists, every day I make one for at home, at work, grocery shopping, days off etc Yes, I have everything in my mind but I still love to physically cross things off my list. I had a list of things I planned to get done on my days off and some happened and others didn’t. I could have gotten upset it or overwhelmed and stressed about not getting it done but instead I decided to live. 

Too often we find ourselves wanting to check all the boxes or get everything done that we forget to really experience and be present on what’s going on, I know I am guilty of this too. 

So, I didn’t get everything done on my days off that I wanted to, but what I did get was time spent doing something fun, time spent entertaining, time spent relaxing, time spent reconnecting. In the grand scheme of things, that’s more important to me than cleaning my car or organizing my room or planning for the week ahead. Yes, those things will get done and it will work out, but this was a lesson that showed me that it’s okay if I don’t always get everything on my list done in a day, I still will have plenty of time to eventually get it done, but for now, sometimes it’s better to ditch the list and live. 

I had something else in mind for my post for today, but life happened and I realized something we need to write from the heart and write about life instead of what the list says to do.

Anyways, that’s a look into my mind now, just some thoughts on life and living instead of living by a list. 

I hope you all have a great week!

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Fabulous living

22 Lessons for this Past Year

Hey guys! I’m a reflective person, so it’s no surprise that whenever my birthday rolls around, I always use this time to reflect on this past year and how far I’ve come. Since I will be turning 22 on Friday, I wanted to take the time to look back on this past year. 21 has been such a big and transformative year for me. From kicking off my senior summer and senior year of college and celebrating all those lasts, to graduating, starting my dream first job, moving home, and meeting some incredible people, it has been a wonderful year with so much growth. 

Here are 22 things I’ve learned this past year:

  1. Treasure the slow and calm times and embrace the chaos.
  2. Make the most of any situation.
  3. Know the confusion and the chaos will make sense later.
  4. If you have to travel for work, see as many friends as you can.
  5. Enjoy college, it will be over fast.
  6. Make every moment a memory.
  7. Be present where you are 
  8. Take the time to thank the people who helped you get to where you are.
  9. Shoot you shot.
  10. Take time to get your Closure Before you Move on
  11. Now, that Goodbyes don’t last forever
  12. Be open to New Beginnings
  13. Jump with Two Feet in
  14. Take Every Opportunity Available
  15. Hard Work Does Pay off
  16. Look for the good in Every Day and use every day as a learning opportunity
  17. Be nice to everyone, you never know when you will meet them again
  18. A good night’s sleep does wonders 
  19. The little moments end up being the most important ones
  20. Appreciate those you have in your life
  21. Recognize how far you have come 
  22. When in doubt, keep smiling

This past year was a year of learning, growth, change and happiness. I’ve learned so much about myself, my goals, and the people in my life. 21 was a game changer of a year and I can’t wait to see what 22 brings!

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Currently

Currently #3

Hey guys! Happy Wednesday, we are here for another currently, I am loving this series because it provides little updates on my life with what’s going on. I hope you are all staying home and safe and healthy. Let’s get into a little currently update! 

What I’m up to: Work has been pretty much the only thing on my mind. These past few weeks have been really busy with everything going on with Coronavirus. No one really knows when this will end but at work we are taking it day by day even hour by hour haha. Despite all the unknowns, I’m still focusing on the good every day, whether it’s my good health, being with my family, or even the weather getting warmer. 

What I’m wearing: We are finally in the spring season, so I am breaking out my greens, blues, and pinks.  It’s been warming up to the 40’s and 50’s so I haven’t worn a winter jacket in a wile which is so nice. I also have been trying new hair styles and makeup for a the new season, I like changing it up for a new season. 

What I’m reading: I’m on the last book of the series, “The Walk”, I wish I would have finished it sooner but I’m so glad I’m almost to the end, it was so good and eye opening. It definitely put things in perspective especially with everything going on during this uncertain time.  

What I’m Watching: This week was the finale of This is Us and A Million Little Things, two shows which I love watching week to week. I started watching 30 Rock on my days off, it’s something light and funny and episodes are only 30 minutes so I can watch them fast and while I’m doing other things.

What I’m Loving: Despite all the craziness, I love having everyone in my family home together. It’s been fun to be all together, have dinner together and enjoy each other’s company too. Plus, it’s all about seeing the light in dark times 

What Inspires Me: I love different inspirational quotes, I saw this one on Instagram the other day about how different perspectives can affect our outlook on life. I thought it was interesting and it shows to focus on the good and not the bad.  

What I accomplished: This month brought a new work schedule for me, I had to get adjusted to working new times and hours. With a new work schedule led me to create a new routine for me. It took some getting used to, but I’m happy with being flexible and getting into a new rhythm. 

Goals Accomplished from Last Month: I’m happy that despite all the changes I am still able to be in close contact with my friends. I made a trip to see them last month and I still talk to them frequently on the phone, through texting or facetime, it’s been so helpful to have these ways to stay connected when everyone is at home.   

Goals for the New Month: Honestly, taking it one day at time, I’m focusing on my family and friends right now. Right now, work has been the main thing on my mind. I’m hoping this gets better in time for spring and summer, I also want to get outside more and get fresh air whenever I can. 

Just something to add a smile to your day!

That’s a look into my life right now. Lots of work, getting some bonus family time, taking care of myself and getting used to a new normal. Stay Safe, Stay Healthy, and Stay Home.  

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Fabulous living

Finding the Good in Everyday

Hey hey! Happy Wednesday! New week, new goals, and new opportunities await for me. 

I always look to find the positive in every situation, whether it’s in work or at home, in good times and bad, I always look for the light in the darkness. 

I personally feel that in life we can get so caught up in the negativity that we forget how much good there is in the world. 

Here are a few ways that I always try to find the good in every day:

  1. Don’t let the little things bring you down. At the end of the day focus on the big picture and don’t worry about the little things. 
  2. When in doubt, be grateful, we can always focus on the things we don’t have or the things that don’t go our ways, but why not change that mentality and focus on the good. 
  3. Do things that bring joy in your day, whether it’s wearing your favorite outfit, getting Starbucks on your way to work, or taking time for yourself. 

It’s amazing how much one small thing can change your outlook on life, even if it’s a simple smile or asking someone how their day is going, you never know how one small act of kindness can make a difference on someone else. When it doubt, choose kindness, choose positivity, and choose joy. Sorry, for the shorter post, life is busy, but I wanted to check in and spread some joy! Have a wonderful week ahead!

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Currently

Currently #2

Another month is winding down which means it’s time for another currently, update. For those, just joining, once a month, I have a post about what I’m currently up to, from what I’m loving, what I’m looking forward and what’s new. I will have the same questions from month to month but besides that I will have a few new questions and will recap some old ones too. To see last month’s post, you can click here. Now, let’s see what’s new in February. 

What I’m up to: I finally am into a good routine and schedule with work. When I’m at work, all my attention and mindset is related to work, but on my days off, it’s so nice to not have to worry about work or even school anymore. With that being said, I’m still on the look for more hobbies or things to get me occupied on my days off. 

What I’m wearing: Dare I say, spring is on its way?! Although, it’s still cold, we have had a mild winter so far, I’ve been mixing up my outfits for work. Whenever, I’m planning out my clothes for the week, I always keep in mind, wearing something that is comfortable, practical and professional. Every day is different for me, therefore, being flexible with my outfit choice is key. 

What I’m reading: I’m still reading the series, “The Walk” and I’m halfway through, be on the lookout for the full recap coming in March. It’s taken me a while but I’m making my way through it. 

What I’m Watching: I just finished season 3 of The Crown and it was so good. I can’t wait until the next season comes out. Also, the new season of Outlander is finally out. It’s been over a year since it aired and I’m so happy that it’s back and better than ever. I also started watching Evil on CBS, it’s definitely dark but it keeps you on the edge of your seat. 

What I’m Loving: I’m really loving my life right now. Yes, work can get stressful but I know it’s what I’m meant to do and I love every day. Plus, coming home to my family and dogs every day and meeting new people from work and making new friends is great too. 

What Inspires Me: I saw this quote the other day and I loved it. It really shows how incredible life is, there may be good and bad moments, but they all contribute to who we are and our stories. I loved the quote so much that I made it the background on my phone. 

What I accomplished: I’m so happy with my new routine that I have gotten in place, I finally have a good work and life balance that I have been looking for. I’m making sure I have time for friends, family, work, and myself.  

Goals Accomplished from Last Month: I finally got back into a good gym routine. I’m back at the gym 5 days a week, during my work week and days off. I feel better when I am working out and I’ve made some changes with my workout routine which I have been seeing better results. 

Goals for the New Month: I’m going to be seeing some of my college friends next week and I couldn’t be happier. Then I have more plans to see friends from college later this month. I keep in touch with some of my close friends in college daily, whether it’s through facetime or texting or phone calls, but it will be so good to see some of my best friends in person. I can’t wait! 

That’s a look into my life right now. Lots of work, some family time, a few visits with friends but overall, lots of happiness. 

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Fabulous living

Thank You Saint Vincent College

Hello All!

My goodness, so much has happened since we last were together.  Since my last post, I finished all my finals and wrapped up all my work at school, I said goodbye to all my friends, I packed up my room, graduated college, moved out of college, and moved back home. What a whirlwind. 

Happy Graduation Day

I have been putting off this post because how does one put into words how much a place has meant to them and how much they have changed since going to college. I have completed changed since coming to college for the better. I am so much more happier and well-rounded and most importantly, confident in who I am. 

When I moved into college in August of 2016, I was scared of what to expect for what college would hold. Through every semester, I learned in and out of the classroom, I gained more leadership roles, I tried new things, got involved, but most importantly, I learned a tremendous about myself. 

I had professors in class who would become my bosses and greatest mentors. People who I was co-workers with have become some of my closest friends. Even individuals who I met on move in day have become my best friends. 

My bestie since day one, Danielle

College is a weird thing because, you meet people from all over the country from all different walks of life and one singular place ties you all together. You spend every day walking the halls and seeing the same familiar faces and then, all of a sudden, it’s graduation day and you all move on and go your separate ways. You may not see the people ever again but you are all still connected to that one place.

I wouldn’t be the person I am today, if it weren’t for my incredibly supportive family, loving friends, encouraging professors, and influential bosses and mentors. I have learned so much from the people who graduated before me and the people I had to leave behind. I’m so lucky and thankful for all the people who were a part of my college journey, whether it was from day one, two years ago, or even four months ago. I’m so glad I took every opportunity presented to me in college, whether it was for an honor society, job opportunity, or work study position. Every single experience has influenced me and helped shape me into the person I am today. 

I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for my family

I couldn’t be more blessed with a school that allowed me to grow and flourish and find myself, however, it makes it so much harder to leave behind. Saint Vincent College has truly become home to me and I know I will be back. Thank you to the school that has given me so much. I will never forget my time at Saint Vincent College and all the incredible things it has given me. Once a Bearcat, Always a bearcat.