Tag: read books

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Currently #37

Hi everyone! I can’t believe we are at the end of January! This month went by so fast, it was definitely nice to have a slower month compared to a busy December at the end of the year. This past month has been a good mix of fresh starts, staying cozy and getting outdoors too. As the month wraps up, here’s a look at some things I have been up to.

What I’ve Been Up To: I’ve spent this past month decluttering and organizing things. After a full December, both mentally and physically, I was looking forward to some New Year cleaning. I have been participating in the Simplified Simplicity Challenge this month and I have been so proud of doing little things every day to live a simplified life. I’ll be sharing a recap of my simplicity challenge next month.

Cleaning out different areas of your life, like your purse is just one example of the daily challenges.

I also have been trying to get outside for fresh air even in the colder months, whether it’s for a walk or run, even a few minutes outside makes all the difference. I also have been trying some new recipes and enjoying some new books too. January has been slow but productive.

January has been filled with lots of snow too!
Another new recipe I tried this month, Shrimp Avocado Medicine Soup by Jessie James Decker.

What I’m Wearing: I have been wearing all the layers especially when I am outdoors. I have so many scarves that I have been making a point to wear them when I’m out and about. Not only do they keep you warm, but they are also a great fashion statement too.

All the layers for chilly weather.

What I’m Reading: I’ve been reading lots of books over the past few weeks as I spend more time indoors. 

Here’s what I have been enjoying.

I Didn’t Do that Thing Today- “I Didn’t Do that Thing Today” has more of a psychological feel as opposed to a narrative feel. The author talks about all the research and interviews she has conducted when it comes to productivity. As someone who thrives on being a productive person and getting everything done, I learned a lot about not having to be busy all the time and giving ourselves breathing room and not letting a lack of accomplishment affect our days.

Spare-I have been making my way through  Spare, Prince Harry’s book. The book begins after the death of Princess Diana and follows Harry’s life to the present day. So far, I have found Prince Harry to be very real and vulnerable, but also giving historical context and perspective to different things in his life. I’m looking forward to finishing the book soon.

What I’m Watching: I have been watching and enjoying The Mindy Project. It’s so fun and easy to have on in the background as I get things done. I also have been watching some fun movies. I watched Knives Out: Glass Onion, About Fate and Something From Tiffany’s. All can be found on streaming services, they were all a mix of romantic comedies, mystery and dramas. I’ve been adding more things on my list of things to watch. 

About Fate was such a cute movie on Amazon Prime.

What Inspires Me: I’ve been inspired by a clean slate for the new year. From decluttering to starting new year’s resolutions and getting back into new routines. I love the new year and a fresh start.

Hello decluttering for a fresh start!
I’ve also been enjoying some baking too.

What I Accomplished: In addition to fresh starts, I have also been getting back into some of my favorite routines and hobbies. I got a few new cookbooks for Christmas and have really enjoyed trying out some new recipes including soups and hearty meals. I also have been so good about keeping up with friend dates, whether they are in-person or via facetime, it’s so good to get some quality friend time in.

New cookbooks means new recipes.
Winter weekends means pancakes!

Goals from Last Month: I have started on some of my New Year’s Resolutions which also gets me in the right mindset for the new year. Sometimes, the hardest part of starting a new habit is taking that first step. One of my goals of this year is to live a healthier lifestyle and I have tried to do that by making smarter food choices and moving more, we are only one month in, but we are off to a good start. I also have been checking things off my winter bucket list too!

Goals for this Month: February is all about love and Valentine’s Day and showing those in your life that you care! I’m looking forward to a Valentine’s Day date, some girlfriend time for Galentine’s Day and enjoying some chocolate and all things heart shaped. Plus, I’m excited to continue to enjoy winter by taking winter walks but also cozying up inside. 

I also went to a hockey game this month and I’m hoping to go to a few more before the season is over.

That’s a look into life recently. Some reading, some binge-watching, trying new foods, staying active and getting back into new routines.

 

I’ve also been enjoying some puppy cuddles too.

Tell me: How has your New Year’s Resolutions been going?

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Fabulous living

Summer Reads

Happy Wednesday! 

As we make our way through June, I always try to use these months as a time to slow down by keeping my schedule a bit more open. 

I like to try to have the flexibility to take a walk after work or enjoy a spontaneous ice cream date without having a packed schedule. I also like to use the summer to catch up on some of my favorite books. Since the start of 2021, I’ve made it a point to read every day, whether it’s a chapter of one book, of 150 pages of another. If you enjoy reading on the beach or having a few good books on hand for vacation, I have a few suggestions for you. This is a round up of my favorite summer reads. This list is a mix of different genres and authors. If you want to keep up with what I’m reading, you can check out my Instagram stories where I keep track of all my books.

Beach Read

If you are on vacation and on the beach, this is the book for you. Beach Read follows the story of a young writer who spends a few months at a little beach house that is left to her.  Her goal is to work on a new book and learn more about the cottage and how it came into her possession, but her next door neighbor proves to be a bit of a distraction. Will our protagonist find the answers she’s looking for  and what will from there cut boy next door? You have to read this fun book to find out. 

Paris is Always a Good Idea

If you are looking to escape, not just to Paris but Ireland and Italy too, this is such a fun read. After working nonstop for nearly a decade, a young professional decides to go to the places she traveled right after college in order to find herself again. She meets some old flames which brings up memories of the past in each of the cities she visits. While abroad, she makes peace with the past, but will it allow her to move on fully once she returns home? Pick up this book and find out. P.S. after reading this book, you will want to book a one way ticket to Europe-the description of the places is incredible!

Not a Happy Family

If you like suspense and mystery and a bit of who done it, here’s a summer read you won’t want to put down. After a large, Easter dinner, the parents of a well-known family are found dead in their home. But, who killed them and why? Was it one of their children? The maid who found them or a random home invasion? This book has so many twists and turns that your guesses will change all throughout the book. This story has a lot of suspense but it’s not too scary that you won’t be able to sleep at night. I do have to warn you, once you start, it will be hard to put it down. 

The Silent Patient

Sticking with thrillers and mysteries. This book tells the story of a doctor who works in a Psych ward and he tries to uncover the mystery behind his patient who is accused of murder but won’t speak. This may seem dark, but it’s much more suspenseful and mysterious than scary. When you start reading, you won’t want to finish until you have all the answers you are looking for. There’s so many twists and turns and the ending will catch you off guard. It’s one of the best books I’ve read in a long time!

Grace Not Perfection

If you know me, then I have probably talked to you about my love for Simplified and Emily Ley. Grace Not Perfection is the first book she wrote and it is the perfect summer read. If you are looking for that push to have you slow down and be more present in the moment, this is the book for you. Emily has written other books, but her first book always holds a special place in my heart. This is the perfect book to read as the sun rises or sets or by the pool. Once you read this one, I guarantee you that you will want to read her other books.

Going There

If you are a fan of memoirs, then Katie Couric’s book would be a great option for you. Whether you followed her career for years or just wanted to get to know more about her, I found this book to be so insightful. From her childhood, big stories she’s covered, her personal life and where she is today, she covers a lot of ground. I enjoyed Couric before her book but I respect and admire her even more now. You will learn so much from this book. A must read for anyone who enjoys news, journalism or women being awesome!

If you are a big reader or looking to try some new books for the first time, I hope this list gives you some suggestions for summer reads. What books are you loving this summer? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy Reading!

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Currently #28

Hey guys!

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!

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Currently #22

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s what I started my month with.

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

Another cute one story with a cute twist

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

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

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

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

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

Another fall walk in the books.

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

A fall trail mix on a day off

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

Fall pumpkins for some pretty decorations.

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

First Time making s’mores cookies,

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

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

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Currently #20

Hey guys! I can’t believe we are at the end of summer. This summer flew by! Even though I’m not in school anymore and I can still do things outside into September and even October when the weather is nice, it’s still sad to think summer is winding down.

This month has been extra busy but also lots of fun! Here’s a look into my life lately.

What I’m up to: I’ve been busy making lots of trips to see friends. From dinners, to shopping and lunches, and the weddings. One of my best friend’s got married last weekend, I was one of her bridemaid’s and it was so fun getting to celebrate her these past few weeks and this past weekend. There’s nothing better than celebrating love with people who you’ve known for years. Work has kept me busy too, but I’m in a really good place in life, so I can’t complain!

Work always takes me to different spots. One day it took me to the pool on a hot summer day!

What I’m wearing: I’m trying my best to wear all my summer clothes and dresses before it gets too cold. I have been wearing lots of bold and bright colors. I’ve been also wearing some short sets and blouses on my days off too! 

Wearing some bright color at work

What I’m reading: I have been reading a lot! I finished, One Summer in Paris. It follows two women, one from England and one from the United States as they meet while both in Paris for the summer. It’s about friendship, love, the City of Love, finding yourself. I really enjoyed it! I also read the actress and comedian, Retta’s autobiography. It’s about her life journey to where she is today and how she got into acting and comedy. It was a fun and light read. It almost felt as if she was reading it to me. I’m currently working on Tina Turner’s autobiography, Happiness Becomes You, it’s been very informative and have learned a lot about this singer. 

What I’m Watching: Ladies and gentlemen, I finished Offspring. I really loved it! It was so fun and light- hearted and the perfect spring/summer show to watch. I definitely recommend it on Netflix. I also blitzed through Outer Banks on Netflix too. It’s a teen drama, but I watched the first season during Covid, so I had to continue it. It was really entertaining!!

Season 2 was soooo good!!!

I’m watching some movies before I start another series or before my fall shows return. I watched The Last Letter from your Lover, it was very good and a great period romantic drama. 

A movie win in my book!

What I’m Loving: I’ve been loving lots of time outside, whether it’s a trip to the zoo, and ice cream date or an afternoon by the pool. I’ve also been enjoying lots of summer meals, like salads, salmon, and snacks by the pool too. 

A delicious combo of salad and salmon! Yum!

What Inspires Me: I’ve been inspired by being more mindful. I’ve started to do mindful breathing in the morning. Every morning I always do some reading and journaling and prayer but I’ve started to add some breathing exercises, just to be in the right mindset before I start the day. I’ve noticed it has been helping start my day off on the right page. 

My mindfulness journey so far

What I accomplished: I’ve gotten to see so many friends and I have loved it.  I also loved celebrating one of my closest friend’s big day! I saw some family earlier this month too which was lots of fun! It’s been a busy but a summer filled month! I also got lots of pool days in too!

Even my dog Reese got in on the pool action.

Goals Accomplished from Last Month My goal was to keep enjoying summer and I mostly certainly did that. I’ll have my summer recap coming up soon. I love to see how much I accomplished both on and off my list! Stay tuned for that story coming up!

Fresh flowers are a favorite summer must have of mine!

Goals for the New Month: As much as I hate to admit it, next month will be all about the transition from summer to fall. I’m looking forward to this last few weeks of summer and spending as much time as I can outdoors.

That’s a recap of August, it’s been a busy but fun month. How’s your last full month of summer been?!

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Currently #19

Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! If I had to describe this month in one word it would be rain. We had so much rain, when we finally got our first day of sunshine, I couldn’t be happier. I’m all for a rainy day here or there but not for a month of summer. But the good news is we have had plenty of sunny days since then. Here’s a look into my life this past month.

What I’m up to: I’ve been doing a lot of indoor activities and seeing lots of family and friends. I saw family over the Fourth of July which was great. I also went to my high school reunion with some friends that I’m still close with. I also saw some college friends too. It was a busy month, but I was so happy to do so many things and see so many people. I also took on a new role at work, it’s been fun to learn new things!

Behind the scene at work

What I’m wearing: I got some new work dresses from Amazon. I can’t wait to show you them soon in. post in a few weeks! For days off, I have been wearing lots of shorts and tee shirt sets and of course a few easy throw on dresses. Here’s my past posts on summer looks and vacation looks.

One of my Amazon purchases!

What I’m reading: I finished The Bookstore on the Beach. It was definitely a fun and summer read. It was a lot deeper than I thought, there was a lot of challenging issues that were tackled. I really liked how there was a lot about the relationships between mothers and their daughters. Speaking of women, our book club book for this month was called The Secret Lives of the First Ladies. It was a fun historical read. The writing was very modern and light. It almost felt as if you were having conversations with them. I learned a lot about the wives of the men who helped run our country. It also was interesting to see how much these women endured through their lives. I’m currently reading One Summer in Paris, I just started but it’s already looking to be a great read. 

What I’m Watching: Before you ask, yes, I am still watching Offspring, butttttt I’m on the final season! So hopefully this is the last time you read about it. But in all seriousness, it’s been a wonderful show. I’m so glad it was recommended to me. It’s a great show all about family dynamics and all the things they go through. It’s been a perfect show to watch in the spring and summer. Season 2 of Lupin was so good! I loved the ending. It felt like the first episode. It’s a must watch if you haven’t seen it yet. I also am catching up on Virgin River. It’s such a cute and classic Hallmark-y show on Netflix. It’s been such a light summer show. Definitely recommend if you are looking for a summer show. 

What I’m Loving: I’ve been loving the simple things. With all the rain these past few weeks, I’ve loved taking time to read more, curl up and light a candle or watch movies or tv shows. But when the rain breaks, I love getting out for a walk or just sitting outside. Plus, nothing says summer like some fresh flowers or an ice cream cone! Taking summer adventures have been fun too!

Heading to the Botanical Gardens in Cleveland has been a fun summer adventure
Another shot of the botanical gardens

What Inspires Me: I’m inspired by all the green after the rain. Everything looks so much more alive after a storm. I’ve also been inspired by supporting more local spots for meals and treats. It’s been so nice to see the community out and about more this summer and enjoying food at home!

Enjoying a summer brunch outside

What I accomplished: I’ve loved being able to see so many friends and family this past month. That has been a huge accomplishment. I’ve also gotten adjusted to my new routine and schedule which has made life much easier. 

Goals Accomplished from Last Month I got to celebrate the Fourth of July after work with family and friends. From yummy food, to fireworks, and seeing people. It was one of my favorite days of the year. I’m also getting lots of things done on my summer to do list.

Fireworks on the Fourth
My little pup getting in the Independence Day spirit!

Goals for the New Month: Enjoy the last month of summer! Luckily, I don’t have to go back to school but my siblings will. It’s been so nice to have another summer home with them. I can’t wait for more time outside and in the sun and continuing to see family and friends

A tasty meal outside supporting a local spot is my idea of a perfect time!

That’s a look into my life this month. What things have you been doing this past month. Let me know!

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Fabulous living

Summer Bucket List Recap

Well friends, it is the end of the summer. This summer has flown by, I think that has to do with the fact so many things are closed or not what they used to be due to Covid, but I also think due to working full time, summer just feels different. Although, I am sad to see summer go, I am looking forward to the new season. I set 20 goals for the summer and now that Labor Day is over, it’s time to see if I accomplished them all. 

Summer Bucket List
  • Read 20 Books (I’ve read 18 last summer so I want to up my books for this summer)
One of the books I read this summer, book review coming soon

No, this didn’t happen, between working full time and spending any free time with family or friends, I was upset this didn’t happen but I am looking forward to reading more once the weather is cooler and I’m inside more.

  • Finish 30 Rock (I keep starting it but never finish it)

No, I  am making my way through 30 Rock but still have another few seasons, I did start and finish The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, which I absolutely loved! From the costumes to the characters, and them drama and the comedy, it was the perfect summer pick me up. 

  • Be outside for 3-4 days a week (whether its swimming, walking, or running)
Going on walks and cutting fresh flowers were a big part of my summer days

Yes! I spent so much time outside especially on my days off or before or after work. I went on a lot of walks, to parks, the beach and zoos. I loved making it a priority to get outside. 

  • Spend 30 minutes outside a day (Eating, reading, doing work, I want more sunshine)

Yes! Every morning before work I would spend some time outside to read, to work, or just for a walk, I loved getting some sunshine before I spend my day inside. I also liked spending time outside after a long day too. 

  • Go someplace new

Yes! I went on a few day trips which were great for the soul. It was good to get away for a breather and go someplace new, and I got to spend time outside which made it better too.

  • Catch up with college friends (lots of plans have gotten changed due to Coronavirus, so I’m hoping to start rescheduling things)

Yes! I was able to see friends over the summer, outside and socially distanced, but still it was great to see friends face to face instead of just over a screen. 

  • See high school friends (hoping to make more time for friends near and far)

Yes! I was able to see from high school friends for both breakfast and dinner, it was so great to catch up and see friends in person and not over a screen.

  • Entertain friends at home (I love entertaining so I’m hoping to have more friends over)

Yes! Although, it was different this year, I was still able to entertain and have people over. It was much more limited this summer due to Covid but having people over made me feel like things were a bit more normal. 

  • Wine Tasting (my friends and I have talked about doing this for ages, hoping we can finally make it happen this summer)

No, this didn’t happen, but we are planning to do it in the fall once it works better with people’s schedules and more things are open. 

  • Beach Day

Yes! It was great to spend some by the water on the beach and with not a care in the world. 

  • Dinner by the water (I love living by the water and having dinner by it is so nice)

I didn’t get dinner by the water but I did get lunch and a walk by the water which was perfect and we had beautiful weather too!

  • Kayaking (I love being on the water in any form)
Morning out kayaking

Yes! My brother and went kayaking one morning and it was great to be on the water and get some one on one time together.

  • Working out (I want to keep being consistent with it)

Yes! As soon as gyms reopened I was back in the gym five days a week. I can feel myself get stronger each time I am there which is the best feeling.

  • Pool Day

Yes! I got a handful of pool days this summer with my family and brothers which made me feel like a kid again.

  • Bonfire
Bonfire Fun

Yes! We had a bonfire at the beginning of the summer and I loved sitting by the fire with some of my favorite people.

  • Day Trips

Yes! Whether it was going to see family or friends I got many day trips in which worked out great especially with Covid. 

Beach day and a day trip
  • Really take time to slow down ( I took the time during Coronavirus to slow down and I want to continue to do that)

Yes! On mornings before work I was able to relax and take it easy and on my days off I tried to have one busy day with getting things done and one day that was more laid back and relaxed. I want to try to keep this up in the fall too.

  • Summer restaurants (I have a few favorite seasonal places that I can’t wait to get back to)

Yes! I was able to hit my favorite spots this summer and introduce my friends to them too which was even more special.

  • Ice Cream shops

Yes! I ate too much ice cream this summer and hit all of my favorite spots. One day I had ice cream twice! 

  • Take advantage of local spots and free activities

Yes! I got to do a lot of my favorite things this summer that were local, especially in these hard times, it’s always great to support local!

Well there you have it! I am so happy with what I accomplished, from local spots, favorite food places and time outside, I couldn’t have asked for 

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Currently

Currently #7

Hey gang!!  Happy Wednesday! I hope you are having a great week. I can’t believe we are almost to the end of July! Summer is going by so fast but it has been so good to me. Being outside every day has been the best. It’s time for a currently update.

What I’m up to: July has been getting back to normalish, I’ve been able to see some family and friends, all socially distant, but it has been nice to see familiar faces. I have been able to spend a lot of time outside which has been so nice, from walks, to hiking, and swimming, it has been so nice to soak up sunshine. 

Morning out kayaking

What I’m wearing: I have been loving summer dresses, and short sets. I’ve been  wearing more dresses for work since they are easier to wear in the heat. But on days off I love a good matching short set. 

What I’m reading: I have not been the best at reading, but that is mostly because I am spending more times outside or doing things and spending time with family. This summer has been great for extra family time.  

What I’m Watching: I’m still watching 30 Rock as a do work or get ready for the day. I also just started watching The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. It is soooo good, its fun and light with a bit of drama too. Plus I can’t get enough of the set design and the costumes. It’s the perfect summer show. 

What I’m Loving: I have been so happy with making the most of summer on my days off and before or after work. I am also in a great routine where I’m working out consistently, eating better, being outside and feeling accomplished. Not every day is like this but I love a finished to do list after a long day.  

What Inspires Me: I have been loving everything fresh, I have been cutting fresh flowers every week during my walk. I also have been eating more fruits and veggies outside, there is just something peaceful about being outside, I have also been inspired about just finding happiness in the little things. 

Fresh flowers to start the day

What I accomplished: I’ve been really happy with working out five days a week, I was doing great in the winter and then the pandemic hit and everything was put on hold, but since things have reopened, I am back to the gym and feeling better and stronger. I have also started to read more and learn more about finances and budgeting. Budgeting is something that I want to learn more about and get better at it following graduation and working full time.   

Obviously Im not 30 but I thought this was funny since this is how I spend my days off

Goals Accomplished from Last Month: I have done a really good job at seeing friends and also making the most out of every day, whether it’s my day off or a work day. I also feel better after being productive while also relaxing too. I am really happy that July felt like a true summer month.   

Goals for the New Month: I want to still see some more friends and continue to get outside and soak up as much summer whether it’s time in the pool, ice cream stops, or more hikes. Hiking has become one of my favorite new hobbies and I am trying to get out as much as I can.

That’s just a look into this past month, a mix of work and getting outside and making summer memories. This has been a different summer but I am really enjoying it and making the most out of it. I hope you are having the best week. 

Categories
Fabulous living

Book Review-Little Fires Everywhere

Hey everyone!

Happy Tuesday. School has been keeping me busy which has left little time for reading. As much as I love to read at the end of the day, after studying and reading all day, sometimes you just need a breather. Luckily, I found a great book that made me want to read even after a full day of studying and classes.

 I know I am late to the game, but I read Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng. I have heard a lot of good things about this book and with the new limited series coming out through Hulu, I knew I wanted to read it before it came out. I was at a book sale a few weeks back and picked up this book and couldn’t wait to get started. 

 First, let’s talk about the casting: Reese Witherspoon, Kerry Washington, Joshua Jackson, Jesse Williams and more. This casting made me want to read the book even more. I may just get Hulu to stream the series when it comes out in 2020. 

 Okay, now to the review. I really enjoyed this book. It took me a little over a week to finish it, I would have been done with it earlier but school and work caused me to read it in short installments. I read a little bit every day, some days more than others.

This story follows the lives of the picture-perfect Richardson family and their new mother/daughter tenants, the Warren’s. All seems to go fine when they meet and their children spend time with each other. But as the story goes on secrets are uncovered in both families, people’s pasts are brought into question, and when an adoption of a fellow neighbor goes viral, people must take sides. It’s a very complex book but it’s not confusing. It goes into the pasts of the main characters and other supporting characters are sucked into the plot as well. There are issues of motherhood, doing what’s right, friendship, and community. It takes place in the 1990’s in Cleveland, Ohio but many of the issues that are dealt with in the book could still be applicable today.  There was many twists and turns through the book and you will be wondering if all your questions get answered. The ending took me by surprise, if you have read it, what did you think?

Overall, I would give this book an A-.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was sad when it was over. You know you read a good book when you aren’t ready for it to end. I can’t wait to see the mini-series when it comes out, it will be interested to see how the book compares to the series and what changes they make. 

Have you read any good books lately?! What are your favorites?! Let me know in the comments below. Happy reading friends!

Categories
Fabulous living

Summer To Do:

Summer is in full swing. My brothers are finished with school and we are getting into a summer routine. The weather is warm, pool parties and barbecues are underway and (I think) things are starting to slow down. Although, I am working a lot this summer I still want to make sure I have some fun. It may seem a bit late to the game but I made a summer to do list. Some things are specific, others are more hopes but I’m sharing it with you today. Towards the end of summer I will share home much I accomplished. When it comes to summer fun… here’s my list.

Summer List

  • Complete Internship
  • Go some place new
  • Take a trip
  • Sleep in
  • See high school friends
  • See one (or more) college friends
  • Read SIX book (one more than last summer)
  • Watch SUITS

    Can’t wait to start this new series
  • Watch Evil Genius
  • Watch Comedians in Cars getting Coffee

    my latest obsession
  • See Mamma Mia 2

    SOOOO Excited to see this movie
  • See Oceans 8

    Another movie I can’t wait to watch
  • See family and spend time with them
  • Try something new
  • Go to the beach
  • Take more walks
  • Eat at a food truck

    With food trucks becoming more and more popular I need to try some!
  • Watch the sunset and sunrise
  • See a concert
  • Spend more time outside
  • Go swimming more often
  • Do more free things (Zoo, parks, festivals)
  • Trip to Pittsburgh
  • Breakfast at iHop
  • Don’t rush as much and be in the moment
  • Smile more
  • Be spontaneous

That’s a round up of my dreams and goals for this summer! I may add things as the summer goes on. But I love to make a list of to-do’s to make sure I get everything in and it’s not August and I realize I have two weeks to get everything in.

Do you make up summer bucket lists? If so, what’s one thing on your to -do???