Tag: reading

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Currently

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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Currently

Currently #17

Hey guys!

Happy Wednesday! I’m doing my Currently a week early since my birthday is next week and my post next week will be about turning 23…now that all that is out of the way, it’s time for this month’s currently. 

What I’m up to: I had many plans to be outside, but this past month was wet, cold and rainy. The dreary weather led me to stay inside more. But that meant more time for reading, watching movies and baking, I do hope that June brings warmer weather and more sunshine too. We got lots of sun in April so it was a tease not to have it in May. I also don’t mention it a lot but I go to the gym regularly so that helps get my blood pumping in the morning when I can’t get outside for a walk. 

Wearing all the bright colors to channel some warmer weather.

What I’m wearing: I wish I could say I was wearing sleeveless dresses, and shorter, summery dresses but unfortunately, it’s a lot of layers still. ¾ sleeve dresses have been my go-to. It’s a perfect mix of summer with the coverage for spring. Jean jackets and leggings have been my comfy go-to on days off. I have a few new brighter dresses that I can’t wait for warmer weather to wear. 

A look at some longer sleeve dresses

What I’m reading: My book club has been a godsend through the pandemic and this past year. Not only do I get my daily reading thanks to my book club, but I also get weekly chats with my high school friends in. This past month I read a lot of books. We started out with Eat Pray Love. I have seen the movie starring Julia Roberts but was excited to read the book too. The book goes deeper than the movie. But they tell the story of a woman who isn’t happy in her marriage or her job. She decides to end her marriage and go on a year long trip to Italy, India and Indonesia. On this trip she finds herself, finds her faith maybe even finds love. After reading it, it makes me want to go on a trip to some of these gorgeous places.

A+ book for me!

I also read Bobbi Brown’s book, Beauty Rules, I’ve had it for years but finally got around to reading it. There was lots of good information and tips of beauty too.

Another informative read

I’m currently reading Spilled Milk, it’s been a tougher book to get through. It’s about a girl growing up and the hardship she endures as she lives in an abusive household. It’s definitely been a tougher book to get through due to the subject material but it’s been good so far. 

My current read

What I’m Watching:  I’m still loving Offspring on Netflix. It’s about a family and their grown children and all the ups and downs of life. It’s a fun and quirky show and definitely a lighter watch especially at the end of a long day. A lot of my weekly shows are wrapping up. It’s been interesting to see how different shows handle Covid, some have taken the pandemic into their storylines, others haven’t incorporated them in their shows. It’s been fascinating to see them all handle the challenged this year has thrown at them. 

What I’m Loving: Life has been good. I’ve gotten a chance to work on some fun stories at work and fill in on our weekend morning show which was fun. I’ve enjoyed the extra family time I’ve gotten with my parents and siblings now that school is wrapping up for the year. 

I got to celebrate my brother’s Confirmation last week.

What Inspires Me: I’ve been inspired by more and more people getting vaccinated and the world slowly getting back to normal. I got my second dose a few weeks back. Although, I had some typical side effects I was very glad to have gotten vaccinated. A lot of our restrictions are getting lifted at the end of the month which makes me feel more comfortable going out and doing things and seeing people.

Proof of getting vaccinated

What I accomplished: In the past month I got my second dose, got some big work projects done and continued to see my close family and friends on my days off. 

Goals Accomplished from Last Month I got to celebrate Mother’s Day at home with my family which was so nice. I also got to celebrate some birthdays which was fun. I also got to try a few new restaurants which was fun and super tasty. It gives me things to look forward to in the summer months. 

Trying out some local spots

Goals for the New Month: summer, bucket list, trips, seeing friends, For June, I’m looking forward to planning my summer bucket list from things to do, places to see and people to visit. I am looking forward to summer getting underway and spending more time outside and doing outdoor activities too. 

That’s a recap of my life. Nothing too exciting, but some of the best things in life happen during the simple days. What are you loving nowadays?

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Fabulous living

My Favorite Ways to Read

Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! Halfway through the work week…there’s no better feeling than hump day. 

One of my favorite hobbies since I was a young child is reading. I loved going to the library all through school and picking out different books to read. From picture books, to chapter books and then eventually novels. It’s no secret that I love the classics, Jane Austen is my favorite.I do enjoy autobiographies and biographies. There is something special about learning about someone or just getting lost in a book. 

Since I started my book club with my friends Maddie and Ryan, I have been reading a lot more which has been so fun and fulfilling. I have also gotten creative with the different ways I am reading. I’ve read your traditional, physical paper/ hardcover books, digital books thanks to Libby and then audio books. Three different ways to read.

Our weekly book club meetings…all remote but still so fun!

I love how many options there are out there to read. My personal favorite is the traditional, physical, paperback or hard cover (and preferable library books). I love being able to hold a book in my hands and go through it, page by page.  There is something special about the simplicity of curling up with a good book and being transformed to a new place. Even though I have a large stack of favorite books that I own, library books are my go-to for one time reads. I like supporting a community staple and I like that I can return it if I don’t like it, plus, library books are free which is a very good thing. 

A few books from my collection at home.

If I can’t get my hands on a physical book, checking them out from the library, digitally is the next best thing. I found out about Libby, which is an app you can download on your phone, iPad, or Kindle and check out books from your local library. This was a huge life saver when libraries were closed due to the pandemic. I do like how easy it is to read wherever you are (and it beats carrying books around) and Libby makes reading at night easier too. But, there is something that still draws me to the physical book. If you are always on the go and can read wherever, this could be the best option for you.

Lastly, audiobooks, as a child, we would sometimes listen to audiobooks on road trips. As I’ve gotten older I’ve stuck with reading books as opposed to listening to them. I decided to give audio books a try last month. I downloaded Audible and started a one month long free trial. It was nice to be able to listen to books as I was driving or getting ready or doing laundry. However, I would often get distracted and wouldn’t be as focused on my book. It was convenient for long drives but ultimately, I would rather sit down and relax to read as opposed to multitasking.

Reading is a favorite hobby of mine and I love that I have been able to carve out time every day to savor it, whether it’s reading a book physically, a digital book or an audiobook. At the end of the day, I will always be happy to curl up with a book and get lost in a new world or learn something new. 

Now it’s your turn!!!

What are your favorite ways to read and what books are you reading now?

Comment below!

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Currently

Currently #13

Hi everyone!! Happy Wednesday. The snow is falling, I have a warm cup of tea and a candle going. It’s the perfect mix of warm and cozy!!! 

It’s been a while since I have done a Currently. I have a lot to catch you up on, so let’s get to it!

What I’m up to: A new year always means a fresh start for me. I love creating new routines, setting new goals, and getting things fresh and clean. With the recent snowfall, I have been staying in more too! I have been doing lots of reading and binge watching too!

What I’m wearing: I have been loving all things warm and cozy on days off like hoodies, leggings, and cabin socks. But on days when I work, I am loving long sleeve dresses. I love the dress to look professional but when it keeps me warm is even better!  

What I’m reading: One of my goals for the new year is to read every day and even though we are only a month in, I have been doing very well. Here are some of the books I have read so far. HRH: So Many Thoughts on Royal Fashion by Elizabeth Holmes. I found her Instagram account several months back and immediately fell in love! She covers royal fashion at home. She breaks down all the Royal Family members outfits down for their different appearances. Holms recently came out with a book that follows the fashion of Queen Elizabeth, Princess Diana, Kate Middleton and Meghan Markle. I really loved seeing the incredible photos and beautiful fashion. I also loved learning and reading about the history and background of the fashion and the events. It was especially fun to read it while I was watching The Crown. If you are a fan of The Royals or fashion, or both, this is the book for you! I would give it an A. 

Such a good book!

Another book I read this past month was Drawing Home by Jamie Brenner. It’s your typical, light and easy summer read, but why not read it in the winter when you are needing a burst of sunshine! It tells the story of a young girl, Penny, and her mother, Emma, who live in a small town and how their summer unfolds after they inherit a house from a famous artist who dies. But why did he leave it to them? When his business partner, Bea, comes to town to claim the house, a battle between Emma and Bea begins. I finished this book in a week after reading a little bit after morning. There is a bit of mystery, a bit of romance, and a whole lot of smiles!!! Was it my favorite book? No. But was it still a fun and light read in the winter? Yes! I would give it a B. I save all my reads to my instagram account and you can follow along at elspethsdaybyday.

Another fun book for the summer or winter!

What I’m Watching: Besides reading, I have been doing a lot of binge-watching. After a year I finally finished 30 Rock! It was a good show, but I still love The Office or Parks and Rec more. It was definitely a relief to finish it! I have been watching some short series and documentaries. I watched The Social Dilemma, which was an interesting look at social media and how it influences our lives. I also hopped on the bandwagon and watched Bridgerton, it was soooooo good. I loved how it was Pride and Prejudice meets Gossip Girl. Such a fun concept and easy show to get through. I am currently making my way through The Queen’s Gambit which has me hooked. I also started Virgin River was has kept me busy too. Staying in during the winter means lots of reading and tv watching.

Finally Finished
Another great watch!
My latest binge

What I’m Loving:  I am loving everything warm and cozy! Whenever I am getting work done at home or watching or reading, I always have a blanket and a candle going. I also have been enjoying lots of outdoor walks too! I have been enjoying lots of warm drinks like cooc and tea. I’m also loving the idea of fresh starts and new beginnings for the new year.

How beautiful is this?!

What Inspires Me:  I’m inspired by a fresh and clean slate. Anyone else like to do a deep clean for the start of the year? I did a lot of cleaning earlier this month from organizing to cleaning and getting rid of stuff. It gets me refreshed for the new year. 

What I accomplished:  I felt a sense of accomplishment by wrapping things up for the old year and starting fresh for the new year, there was no better feeling than getting my planner set up for the new year. 

Goals Accomplished from Last Month Last month I got in the Christmas spirit with cooking, baking, Christmas gifts and movies. Even though I worked a lot, I was so happy I still got to enjoy the holidays when I could and be surrounded with family and friends. 

Goals for the New Month: I have added a few more things to my daily routines to make my days go smoother and I’m looking forward to seeing how they help my day to day life. I’m looking for new hobbies for the new year and one of them is to try new recipes. I’m also looking for other hobbies so if you have any ideas send them my way.

More time outside is also on my goal list!

That’s just a look into my life this past month. Lots of new goals and fresh starts and a clean slate for the new year. What are some things you have been up to this year??

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Currently

Currently #10

Hey hey everyone! October was a month, like between working different schedules, seeing family, and gearing up for a busy few weeks ahead. With that being said, I apologize if this currently is a little boring. But let’s get to it. 

What I’m up to: Lots of work but also filling my free time in with fall activites. This past week I went apple picking and it was so fun and very fall! I’m so glad I got it in before the weather got too cold. 

Fun day apple picking

What I’m wearing: I went on a shopping spree to Marshall’s and T.J. Maxx and got some cute dresses for fall. Check out this green one!!! Perfect for winter and fall weather and the color compliments the weather we are experiencing. 

New green dress for fall

What I’m reading: I decided to try some audio books. I am currently making my way through Mindy Kailing’s book series through Amazon reading. She has a series of books that reflects her life, her family, her work and her background. This is such a fun listen especially when I’m doing things around the house. 

What I’m Watching: I’ve been watching Schitt’s Creek and loving it. I love that the episodes are only 20 minutes and the casting is perfect. It’s the perfect light thing to watch at the end of the day or when I’m getting ready to start the day. 

What I’m Loving: I am loving the fall weather, the changing of the leaves, the crisp air and making my way through my bucket list for fall.

What Inspires Me:  I’ve been lately so inspired by Pinterest. I am loving all the fall and winter boards I’m creating for food, fashion, fun and quotes. It’s been a great creative escape. 

Inspiration

What I accomplished: With work being super busy, I am so happy with getting time to relax and unwind even during the busy days, plus I am loving the ability to relax and unwind and make times for family traditions in the fall too. 

Goals Accomplished from Last Month Despite all the chaos, I have still been able to stay in touch with family and friends with weekly facetime calls and in person dinners. Also, even in all the craziness, I have been able to keep up with my work out routine and stay active too.

Goals for the New Month: Although, this next month will start out busy I am looking forward to planning for the holidays, even though it will be a bit different I am looking forward to all my favorite yearly traditions.

That’s just a recap into life today. Not too exciting but a realistic look into life today. 

Thanks for stopping by! 

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Currently

Currently #9

Hi everyone!! Happy Fall!! Can you believe we are finishing up September. I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to summer, but after chilly weather these past few weeks, I am officially ready for fall. I want crisp leaves, hot apple cider, pumpkins, and all the sweaters! As we wrap up another month, it’s time for another Currently. Here’s a look into what’s new this past month. 

What I’m up to: This month started out with all things summer, from Labor day, to days spent outside and end of the season barbecues. But, mid way through it changed from summer to fall fast. I couldn’t believe when it was 45 degrees when I was heading into work..brrrr….but now that fall is here I am ready to embrace it and everything that comes with it.  

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

Bringing in darker colors for fall for work

What I’m reading: I just finished reading, The Royal We, it was the perfect mix of romance, drama, fairy tale and fun. Although, it took a while to get through it, I was so happy with the ending. The sequel just came out so I know I am going to dig into it soon. I am about to pick up a new book, about the end of summer, perfect timing don’t you think? What are you reading now?

What I’m Watching: I just finished watching Get Organized with The Home Edit on Netflix. As someone who loves to organize, this was my show, I loved that they showed how to organize different spaces in every episode. I love to learn different tips and tricks to make my spaces clutter free and more orderly, plus who doesn’t like a peak into some of your favorite celebrity homes?

What I’m Loving: I am loving the changing of the leaves and seasons, although I was so sad to see summer go, I am already working on a bucket list for fall, it includes, apple picking, pumpkins, scarves, autumn colors, and crisp air. I can’t wait to start celebrating the next few holidays. I am also loving fresh flowers as the seasons change.

End of summer flowers

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

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

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

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

I’ve been loving extra cuddle time with my pups

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

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Fabulous living

Summer Book Review

As promised, my summer book review. My goals was to read 20 books. Let’s see how I did.

My spring and summer melted together so around May was when I started reading summer books.

–Inspire Your Home by Farah Merhi

I have followed Farah’s Instagram account for years. I love anything fashion and interior design and that’s exactly what Farah’s personal and professional pages are. When she announced she was writing a book I knew I had to get it. It covers all different rooms in her home and how to decorated them all. She also talks about decorating on a budget, for different seasons and different seasons of life. Although, I am still living at home and don’t have my own place yet. I know this will come in handy when I am on my own and decorating my own space. The book is filled with pictures, text and explanations. If you are looking for home inspiration or design help, this is the book for you, plus it doubles as a great coffee table book.

Grade: B

The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey

Since I graduated and have been working, saving and budgeting have been areas that I have wanted to work on. I have been saving money by living at home, but I wanted to be educated on a basic overview of finances. After asking around, Total Money Makeover was recommended time and time again. I decided to give it a try. I found the book to be very informative with lessons when it comes to saving, spending, and getting out of debt. It provided a general idea of finances without getting too deep. I do think it would be a better read for someone who may be struggling to get out of debt, rather I just read it to get a lay of the land when it comes to money.

Grade: B-

The Paris Seamstress by Natasha Lester

I got this book for my birthday back in May and finished it at the end of August. It took me a while to sit down and read it but once I did, I loved it! In one afternoon I finished half of the book. The book takes places in the 1940’s and then in the present day and it goes back and forth between two seamstresses. In the 1940’s, the main focus is about the war and spies and the transition from France to America. In the present day, it’s all about uncovering the past and connecting the pieces. There are love stories found in both the past and present, so it’s hard to choose a favorite. It’s hard to read it during multiple sittings. So, I recommend getting a cup of tea or coffee, sitting down and getting into the world of fashion and love and Paris. 

Grade: A

The Royal We by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan

I have heard about this book a lot from other blogs and I couldn’t wait to try it for myself. It’s modern day Cinderella story with the Royal family. Imagine a mix of Will and Kate and then Harry and Meghan. The heir to throne in England meets an American in college and they fall and in love. The book covers eight years of their life from meeting, dating, breaking up, getting engaged and preparing for a wedding. There’s a lot of characters so you need to pay attention, but I really fell in love with this book. You definitely need to sit down and read it, you can read it in bits and pieces but I enjoyed it even more when I could really sit and enjoy it. I loved all the references to the royals and London, England. I did find myself thinking of the Royals and The Crown a lot as I was reading it. The sequel just came out and I can’t wait to read it. Overall, this was the perfect book to end my summer reading list. 

Grade: A 

I clearly did not get anywhere near my goal of reading 20 books. I thought I would have more time to read before work or on my days off in the summer, but life got very busy. I am hoping to get more reading done in the fall and winter when I am inside more. Overall, I was very happy with the books I did get to read and how they were all very different and unique in their own ways. 

What are some books you read this summer? 

What recommendations do you have for me?

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Currently

Currently #8

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Currently

Currently #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. 

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Currently

Currently #6

Hello, hello!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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