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.
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.
Happy Wednesday. With the new year underway, I decided to start a new series on my blog called “Currently” it will be featured once a month about different things that are currently going on in my life. They will be based around things I’m loving, what I’m doing, and other areas of my life that I feel open to sharing. Let’s begin with the first edition of “Currently”
What I’m up to: I’ve been working a lot recently, being the most recent hire, I have been working different hours and shifts that need the help and I am LOVING it. I am getting so much experience and I am learning something new every day which is very exciting. Also, the people I work with couldn’t be nicer or more helpful. It truly is a dream come true, doing what I love in a place that I love even more.
What I’m wearing: I have been wearing all the warm clothes that are professional, working in news every day is different so being prepared and practical with what you wear is so important. Here’s a look into one of my more recent looks. I got this dress from Old Navy and I love the cut and style of it, I also wore it on Thanksgiving and it was perfect for the holidays.
A look into my wardrobe
What I’m reading: My mom got me hooked on the series “The Walk” by Richard Paul Evans, it’s all about a man’s walk across the country, the things he learns and the people he meets along the way. I truly believe that we meet everyone for a reason and they will always have an impact on us and that’s exactly what this book is about. There are five books in the series and I am currently on book two and am loving it. A book review on the whole series will be coming soon.
My latest read
What I’m Watching: All of my favorite tv shows have come back from hiatus which makes me very happy but I have also been binge-watching The Crown on Netflix and I can’t get enough of it. With all the news that is coming from the Royal Family today, I am even more interested in the history of the Royal family.
What I’m Loving: Honestly, life is so good right now. I have a job that I LOVE. I get to come home to my family every day in my home which is incredible and I have some pretty amazing people in my life right now, from new friends to old friends. My support system is pretty awesome right now.
What Inspires Me: I saw this tweet the other day and it spoke volumes. Always be yourself and don’t change for someone. Also, another quote that I recently found that stuck with me was, “Life is what happens to us while we’re planning for something else.” I found that to be so profound and true. We never know what could happen in life so we should enjoy and treasure where we are at now in life.
A new favorite quote
What I accomplished: I have been getting into a good routine of getting into a new routine and schedule since I started working. For the most part, I have a good balance of work, family time and relaxing.
Goals for the New Month: Getting back into a better eating and exercise routine. I have been doing better in January but I want to start February on the right foot and jump right into my fitness goals. I also want to keep maintaining friendships with people from college in addition to new friends that I have made at work. Balance is going to be key in the next month.
And that’s a wrap on the first edition of currently, I may add a new question here or there depending on the month but that’s a look into my life right now and what’s currently going on. Have a great week!
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!
I can’t believe I am writing my summer 2019 recap. This has been a wonderful and packed full summer. When I moved back home in May, I didn’t know what this summer had in store for me. Yes, I knew there would be work, fun, and friends but other than that, I was open to any opportunity that presented itself. I accomplished a lot these past few months, from working at home, working at school, lots of family time, seeing a lot of friends from high school and college, weekend getaways, and trying new things. Let’s take a look back at my summer to do list and see if I accomplished everything.
Get license renewed
Yes, I got this done the first day I was home and was so happy to get it done.
Work/Internship
Yes, I worked at the same job I have been working at since high school and I got a lot f projects accomplished while I was there. I also volunteered for a Campaign this summer and it was interesting to see all the behind the scenes that goes into it.
Make College photo album
Yes, this was such a fun project and I’m glad I have all my pictures in one spot for the future, plus it was cool to look back on all the memories made.
Celebrate 21
Yes, One of the highlights of my summer was celebrating my birthday with all my friends in Pittsburgh, it was so fun to spend the weekend with my people. You can read all about it here.
Celebrating 21 with my girls
See friends from college and high school
Yes, I made a few trips to Pittsburgh for work or to visit friends and it was so good to connect with friends outside of school. I also managed to hang out a lot with my high school friends whether it was weekend trips or fro yo runs.
High school buds
College besties
Portfolio (BLS)
Yes and No, I am still in the process of completing this project for school but it will be done this semester.
Work Study
Yes, I worked a lot for my school and it was great to be kept up to date on what was going on at school and do something I enjoy.
Read 12-15 books
Yes, this was one of my favorite ways to spend the summer. I read a lot and enjoyed unwinding with a good book. You can read my summer book review here!
One of my favorite ways to enjoy the summer
Download pictures to laptop
Yes, another task I wanted to accomplish and I finished it early on in the summer.
Spend time with family
Yes, I got a lot of family time in between family vacations, good meals, and weekend adventures. There is nothing better than quality family time.
Day Trips
Yes, I got in a few day trips to visit friends and work at school for a few days in the summer, one day trips were perfect to do something fun and get work done.
Start Healthier habits
Yes, this summer I snacked a lot less and tried to get outside as much as I could, whether it was for a walk, jog, or even hitting the gym when I could. I was not as consistent with working out as I am in the school year but still felt good about creating healthier habits. You can read about my summer habits here.
I always love going on hikes in the morning or evening
Go to a concert
No, I didn’t get to a concert in the summer, but I have plans for one in September which I am very excited about.
Beach days
Yes, I made it to the beach with my friend Bailey twice, and then spent an afternoon at the beach which was so fun.
ALL the beach vibes!
Family Vacation
Yes, I finished off summer with a family road trip. So fun and many laughs and memories were made.
Much needed getaway
Find a new show to Binge watch
YES, I was obsessed with Outlander this summer. It was such a good show to watch and I became invested in the show fast, I can’t wait for the new season in 2020!
I am still talking about this show
Take more walks outside
Yes, I took more walks in the summer, whether in the woods, the beach or my own backyard. It was so good to get fresh air after working inside all day.
Not only did I spend more time walking outside but I also tried kayaking and loved it
Weekly facetime calls with friends
Yes and no, I didn’t get in weekly facetime calls but my friends and I stayed close by visiting each other and texting every day, plus you know you have a solid relationship when weeks go by and you can pick up from where you left off.
Try something new
Yes, I did a lot of solo traveling this summer so that was definitely a new and rewarding experience that I was so lucky I got to gain more independence in this area.
Try new recipes
Yes, to see some of my favorite recipes you can find my salads here, pizzas here, and snacks here.
From smores
Pizza
and salad
Entertain Friends/family
Yes, I love to help host and entertain, this summer I did quite a bit from having family, friends, or college friends over, whether it was for dinner, a weekend, or just snacks, it’s a lot of work but it pays off in the end.
I love entertaining from the prep, event and satisfaction of a job well done
Do something spontaneous
Yes, although I don’t have an exact time I was spontaneous, there were many times this summer that I stepped out of my comfort zone to try something new.
Be Present
This was huge for me. This summer, I was more present and intentional with what I was doing. Some of my favorite summer moments there are no pictures of because I was in the moment and not on my phone. This was huge for me.
Focusing on the here and now.
Looking back this was a packed full summer filled with new experiences, memories, work and fun. I have grown by trying new things while being present and spending time with those who matter most to me. Although, the school year will be busy, I know I will always have these memories to look back on. Thank you summer 2019, senior year… here we GO!
Hi friends! With summer winding down and school starting back up again I wanted to take this time to share all the books I read this summer and a quick review on them My goal was to read between 12-15…let’s see if I achieved it?!
I had watched Brene’s Netflix special and I loved it. I found it so informative and powerful. After watching it, I wanted to read her previous works. I thoroughly enjoyed Rising Strong, it is all about being vulnerable and opening up to others whether it be in the workplace, at home, or with friends. She also shares personal stories of her being vulnerable in her own life which I loved. There were a lot of valuable lessons in the book and I plan to read more of Brene’s other books. I did find it at times to be a bit heavy and contain a lot information which could be overwhelming, but overall, I found the book to be eye opening and a good read.
I have no shame in admitting I am a fan of Sex and the City, I’ve seen the series and movies and I love the message the shows has about women, friendship, New York, fashion, and love. This book documents everything from the book that inspired the series, the behind the scenes of creating the show, as well as interviews with writers, crew members, and cast members. I love learning all the behind the scenes facts when it comes to my favorite shows. This was a fun and light read and it made me want to rewatch the series again! LOL! For any Sex and the City fan-this is a must read. Fall in love with Carrie Bradshaw all over again!
I loved this book by Tina Fey. I love her as a comedian and find her funny in anything I watch, whether it’s SNL, 30 Rock, or one of the many comedies she has starred in. I found this book to be very light and easy to read. I got it done in two sittings. Fey shares her early childhood, making it into the industry, her time working on SNL and 30 Rock. As I was reading, I found myself laughing to myself about some of the antics she was encountering. I found the book to be very real and relatable. I would recommend it for a beach read or something light between more intense reads. You will find yourself laughing along the way.
After reading one of Brene’s books, I wanted to try and read another. I found this one to be enjoyable and informative. Once again, she shares her vast knowledge and research when it comes to shame and vulnerability. I loved how she shares her personal stories about dealing with shame in her life. I would recommend reading this book before Rising Strong. Overall, I was happy I continued to learn more about the importance of being vulnerable since it is something that I don’t think we talk about enough. I did find it to be a bit heavy with the research so it took some extra time to read and comprehend it. I would definitely recommend it to a friend.
I absolutely loved this book. I finished it in two sittings by the pool after work. I have always been a fan of Reese Witherspoon, I find her so down to Earth and charming. In this books she shares everything she learned from growing up in the south and how it made her into the person she is today. She shares family recipes, tips for decorating, family photos, and gorgeous photos. I learned so much about Reese and how she incorporates her southern roots into her life in California. I also love the layout of the books, she has her favorite recipes mixed in with photos of her home, family, and life down south. I would highly recommend reading this book or evening having it for a coffee table book. It’s bright, colorful, sweet and charming just like Reese is!
This book kept popping up on different blogs I read as well as suggested books. I was intrigued and decided to give it a try. I will be honest with you, it was okay, but I could have definitely bypassed it. Overall, it was funny and had a lot of good one liners and pop culture references which made the book relatable and easy to read. However, I found it to be negative towards dating, love, and relationships. I was hoping it would be more reflective and positive about relationships and dating but I was let down by it. Some things were relatable and resonated with me, but for the most part it was hard to get through it. It was okay but definitely not my favorite…oh well, you win some, you lose some.
I loved this book! It was one of my favorites that I have read this whole year. It tells the story of a young women who reads a book and realizes it’s a book based on her whole life by her childhood best friend and first love. This book goes back and forth between her present day life and the book based on her childhood. She must decide if she wants to track her best friend or leave the past in the past. It’s so well written and sucks you in immediately. Once I started reading it, I couldn’t put it down. I finished in two sittings. I enjoyed it so much I looked into other books by this author. I loved the concept of how one’s first love, maybe one’s only love. I would highly recommend it.
Another favorite book I read this summer. I have heard about The Last Lecture for years but never got around to reading it. Once I started I couldn’t put it down, I finished it in one day. It tells the story of Pausch’s last lecture that he gives before he dies of cancer. He talks about achieving his childhood dreams and what lessons he wants to leave behind to his children, family, friends, and students. I was incredibly moved by this book, I often found myself writing down quotes that I loved. I found this book to be so inspiring and reminded me never to take anything for granted. Highly recommend.
I enjoyed Carlino’s other book so much, I decided to read another one by her and thoroughly enjoyed it as much. This story follows the lives of college lovers and what happens when they see each other after 15 years apart. The book goes back and forth between college life in the past and the present day. It fills in the blanks of what happened in those 15 years apart. I loved the story it told about how special one’s first love is and how time doesn’t mean anything when you truly care about someone. There are laughs, heartfelt moments and a few shockers. I would definitely recommend this book if you are looking for a beach read or something to read before bed. We all could use something light and filled with love in our lives.
I came across this book at the library and was immediately intrigued. It is based off a Facebook Community group. People can go on and post small acts of kindness or love they witnessed or that happened to them. I’m a firm believer in positivity and not focusing on the negative. This book was a collection of many stories from people all over witnessing love and kindness. I read it in two sessions, half by the pool and then the second half inside during a rain storm, both ideal places for good reading! What I enjoyed most about this book was how little acts can make a huge impact on others. Definitely worth the read and your hearts will be moved!
I was really excited for this book going into it, however, it just ended up being okay. I liked the content and reading about Jennings’ life and the stories he covered during his time as a reporter. But, it was hard to get into the book. I liked the way different people who were friends, family, and colleagues of Jennings contributed to the book. I learned a lot about what it means to be a good reporter as well as the impact Jennings made on the world. I found the book to be informative, but I wasn’t changed after reading it. When it comes to books, you win some, you lose some.
This story follows the journey of a young princess who gets left at the altar. Thea must uncover what really happened to her fiancé Christian and who to trust in her royal family. She meets Nick, who also wants to help her find out what happen to her lover, but with his own agenda. I love anything British and Royals so this was the perfect summer read. This book was the perfect mix of romance, mystery, and adventure, all things I look for in a good book. I would definitely recommend it if you are looking for a light and carefree book.
Last summer I read Happily Ali After and I found it funny and an easy read. When I saw this book sitting on the shelf, I knew I wanted to try it. I’m so glad I did. Ali shares personal funny stories about her family, her life, and sweet memories that go along with them. Her topics range from family vacations, her daughters growing up, her girlfriends and her husband. She is real and honest and basically says what everyone is thinking. I finished her book in one weekend. After reading her second book, I feel like I could have a cup of coffee with her and just talk about life and funny stories. Was it the best book I read this summer? No, but It was a fun pool read and I learned more about her than when I started it.
I was recommended this book from Shay Shull of Mix and Match Mama, she always shares her monthly reads and this one stood out to me. It tells the story of a young woman the her guy friends, she ends up falling for one of them and the two of them hook up a few times. When her and her group of guys all try online dating, she ends up getting matched with her best friend who she hooked up. There are some twists and turns but a happy ending. I love how they showed the relationships she has with her the guys but most importantly finding herself through the course of the book. It was such a fun book and you will get sucked in. I finished it on vacation and I couldn’t put it down. I would definitely recommend it. One of my favorites for the summer.
My final book of the summer ended on a positive note. This book stood out to me at the library and I thought there were was no better way to start senior senior year than by being reflective. This book is based on Fred Rogers and is written by the woman who started Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. She talks about being kind to yourself, others, and the world. I’m a firm believer in how a simple act of kindness can change someone’s life. There was also a few references to Brene Brown and the power of vulnerability. I finished this book in two days, and although it wasn’t the best book I read, I thoroughly enjoyed it and was inspired by it.
Grade: B+
Whew, that was a lot of reading and I learned so much from all the stories and genres. I love getting lost in the books and finding new authors. I reached my goal for the summer and although, back to school will be busy I am determined to read more. My top books for the summer are Swear on this Life, The Last Lecture and My Favorite Half-Night Stand.
What books have you read this summer? Any suggestions for fall book reads?
I hope you all had enjoyable weekends. I was out of town this past weekend, doing some work for school as well as celebrating one of my friend’s birthdays an seeing lots of college friends. It was such a fun weekend to see everyone and catch up!
Today’s post is all about my summertime favorites, from music I’m listening to, shows I’m binge watching, fashion trends, and summer snacks.
Favorite Music: Summer Time = Country Music. I have been adding to my country loving playlist all summer long, it’s a perfect blend of Thomas Rhett, Luke Combs, Darius Rucker and more. I love playing it while I’m at work or road tripping.
Love me some country music in the summer
Favorite Binge Worthy TV Show: Outlander has been my go-to this summer, My friend Bailey got me hooked on it and now I can’t stopped. SO good. I can’t wait until the next season comes out.
Who else has binge watched?!
Favorite Drink: I have been drinking all the water this summer, but to change it up I love adding some lemon, mint, cucumber, or other fresh fruits for a refreshing taste. Plus, its great for detoxing.
Drink for the day-water, strawberries, lemon and mint.Delicious and refreshing
Favorite Food: I am all about the salads in the summer. Check out my favorite summer salads here!
Fresh salads in the summer
Favorite Beauty Products: In the summer, I am all about minimal makeup. Unless I am at work, I am just wearing the basics, a bit of foundation and mascara are my go-tos. I have also been growing my hair out for the summer and use less product on it. During the school year, I would be straightening it several times a week and using lots of product, in the summer I have been letting it dry naturally and leaving it down. There is something refreshing about natural hair.
Minimal makeup for summer for the win
Favorite Summer Activity: Nothing says summer like going for strolls in the evening followed by ice cream. I am always down for an ice cream run.
I always love going on hikes in the morning or evening
Favorite Spot: Whenever I get a chance to relax, you will find me outside by the pool reading, it doesn’t happen every day but I love being by the pool with a book in my hand. I have been reading a lot this summer and I can’t wait to share my summer book review with you.
Favorite place to read at the end of the day
That’s just a glimpse into my favorite things in the summer. The carefree days of summer are fleeting. Soak up all moments and make them into memories. See you on Thursday for another look of the day!
I hope your week is off to a great start. It has been so nice to settle into a new routine for the summer months. Every summer I try to set realistic goals for the summer months. They can be anything from activities, projects, trips, and small tasks. I start out with a basic list as summer begins and will add things if necessary as the months go on. At the end of the summer, I love to look back and see everything I accomplished and all the memories I created.
Summer 2019…you are just beginning…let’s take a look and see what my summer goals are:
Get license renewed
-A small but necessary task and I got it done right when I got home!
Work/Internship
Although summer is for relaxing, I plan to work through the summer. I like to stay busy and working through the summer will definitely keep me busy.
Make College photo album
Through my college years, I have been saving photos and organizing them into years. This summer, I want to get them all printed and organized since my time in college is coming to a close.
Celebrate 21
I’m really looking forward to celebrating my 21stbirthday this summer. I’m so lucky I get to be home to be with my family, but I’m looking forward to celebrating this milestone with my friends in Pittsburgh!
See friends from college and high school
Speaking of friends, I am making seeing my friends both from college and high school this summer, whether it’s coffee dates or day trips, friends are so important and I want to make them a priority this summer.
We didn’t even say goodbye at graduation because we knew we would be seeing each other through the summer
Portfolio (BLS)
Another requirement for school that I need to get done before school is back in session for 2019!
Work Study
This summer I will be working remotely for a job I hold back at school. There are a few projects that I will be working on that I am excited to get started on.
Read 12-15 books
I am an avid reader and I am really looking forward to reading a lot over the summer. I already made a stop to my local library to check out a few books to get a start on summer reading.
First book of the summer…
Download pictures to laptop
Again, another task, it won’t take long but I want to make sure I have all my photos from this past year saved to my laptop.
Spend time with family
Since this is my last summer home I want to make sure I soak up as much family time as I can, whether it is family dinners, soccer days, or pool days. I can’t wait to get some quality family time in.
Looking forward to a full summer with the fam!
Day Trips
I love taking day trips, whether it is to the city, in the country, or to see family and friends. I’m hoping to spend a few days going to new places this summer.
Start Healthier habits
I have gotten into good routines while I am at school and I want to continue those routines at home, whether it hitting the gym several days a week, eating healthier foods and meals, or just setting time aside to relax. Getting into a good routine is something I’m looking forward to this summer.
Go to a concert
I have a concert planned for September with one of my best friends, but I want to try and hit up another summer concert. Anyone with suggestions, please let me know.
Beach days
I may live close to the beach, but that doesn’t mean I spend all summer there. Last summer, I went to the beach on the last day I was home. I want to make more of an effort to go to the beach, whether it’s for the sunset, sunrise, or a day in the water.
Family Vacation
I have been reflective in the past few months with everything that has been changing and I’m looking forward to getting away with my family for a summer trip. Where and when that will be is still up in there air, but none the less, I’m looking forward to making some memories.
Find a new show to Binge watch
Every summer, I always am on the look for new shows to binge watch. I’m currently finishing up Dawson’s Creek-an oldie but a goodie! I’m now on the hunt to find a new show to watch this summer. Any good suggestions?
Take more walks outside
In an effort to spend more time outside, I want to take more walks, whether it is at sporting events, at the end of the day after work, or around lunch. I’m looking forward to enjoying the outdoors more.
Weekly facetime calls with friends
Back to the friends…can you tell I miss my college friends?! A few of my friends from school and I have suggested doing weekly facetime calls to keep each other in the loop with what’s going on. It’s a weird feeling going from seeing your BFF’s all the time to going weeks without seeing each other.
You mean I won’t be seeing my friends every day….thank gosh for FaceTime!
Try something new
Leaving this one up in the year. I want to try something new and pushed from my comfort zone. We will see what happens and what I try.
Try new recipes
I love to cook and bake. This summer I want to try some new recipes and even come up with a signature dish. I am into salads right now, so I have a feeling I will be making lots of different salad combinations this summer.
Entertain Friends/family
I love to host people at my home and I learned it all from my mom. In the summer, we love to have friends and family over and I’m looking forward to doing some entertaining this summer.
Do something spontaneous
This goes along with trying something new, even though I love my schedules and routines. I want to be spontaneous and more flexible. I’m hoping to accomplish that this summer.
Be Present
After a stressful and busy semester, I want to be present and just live this summer. There will always be things to do and tasks to accomplish, however, I want to make an effort to just be happy where I am at.
Made this my background for my phone to only focus on the positive things in life
That concludes my summer goals. It may seem like a lot, but overall, I think it is a good mix of realistic and mental goals. Overall, I want this summer to be one filled with happiness, love, laughter, friendship, purpose, and maybe even a dance.
Two years…it’s amazing how much has changed since I started this blog after my freshmen year of college. Just to show how much I have changed, here’s my first ever post. I started this blog as a way to talk about transitioning and adjusting to college life along with fitness, organization and fashion and it has become so much more than that. I’ve become a better writer, more open, a stronger person and stepped out of my comfort zone with this blog.
That is just a look into my favorite posts that I’ve covered these past two years. I opened up about being homesick, getting used to college life, and home life, and back to college life. I have shared my friends, family, dogs, and favorite things with you- from tv shows, books, and ways to have fun.
This blog has been a great stress reliever, whenever I would be stressed or I wanted to share something new I learned, my blog was my go-to.
I truly wouldn’t be here without you all! Thank you for your love, support and for reading my posts every day whether it is about fashion, fitness, or day to day life. I have had so many people and friends tell me they have read my blog, follow it, or make a suggestion for it. It means so much to me that you take the time out of your lives to read about my life. This next year of blogging will be different as I will be graduating college and entering a new phase in my life. There will also be some surprises in this next year, there will be new content, different types of posts, and so many fun things in the future so stay tuned!! But not to fear, the blog is not going anywhere. I’m going to taking it day by day as I start a new adventure and I hope you will come with me on this journey.
Thank you for reading, the love, and support
Here’s to TWO years of ups and downs and taking it one day at a time.
Happy Tuesday! It is finals week for me, thankfully my finals aren’t too strenuous, I am looking forward to easing my way out of the semester. With summer right around the corner, one of the things I’m looking forward to is reading a lot. I have always loved to read but being in college doesn’t always give me the time to read for fun. Don’t get me wrong, I read a lot for my classes, for example, in one of my classes, I was reading a novel a week. I was definitely getting in my 30 minutes of reading a day. However, I didn’t have a lot of time to read for fun. I was able to complete two books for fun through the Spring semester. Although, I wish it was more I was happy to get in a little bit of fun reading.
Such a fun book
I first read Jessie James Decker’s book, Just Jessie.I have always been a fan of Jessie James Decker. I loved following her show on E, listening to her new albums, and following her sweet family on social media. In her book she opens up about growing up, dreaming of becoming a singer, her career in music, meeting her husband, starting a family, creating her fashion line, but above all being herself. It was such a fun and light read, especially when I needed a break from reading textbook material all day. I read a few chapters every night so it took me a few weeks to read it, but you could finish it in a few sittings. I love when artists, actors, or influential people, write books and open up about how they got to where they are today. I find it inspiring and it encourages me pursue my own dreams. If you are a fan of Jessie James Decker I would highly recommend reading her book. She also just released a new song, Roots and Wings, which is beautiful. You can listen to it here.
Grade: A-
Another great read
I also read Matthew Kelly’s book, Rediscover Catholicismover Lent. It was another eye-opening book that made me reevaluate my faith and my relationship with God. This is the third book I have read by Matthew Kelly, I have also read Perfectly Yourselfand The Greatest Lie in the History of Christianity. Although, I liked the other books more than this one, I enjoyed digging deeper into my faith. The books really breaks down the Catholic faith, from The Seven Pillars of Catholic Spirituality, living the authentic life, and how we should live our lives as Catholics. I read a little bit every night and I took me the whole duration of Lent to read it, it could definitely be read in a few sittings, but I wanted to reflect on what I was reading. After reading it, I wanted to challenge myself to make my faith more a priority and be more intentional with my relationship with God. I would strongly recommend this book to anyone struggling with their faith or looking to deepen their faith.
Grade: B-
If you are looking for new books to read I hope this gave you some insights on different books to try. Now, with summer rapdily approaching, I need your help picking out some new books that I should read this summer. What are your current favorites?! I need all the suggestions. Leave them in the comments below! Have a fantastic week!
