Happy Wednesday! I hope you are having a great week as we make our way through September. Since we are now at the halfway point of the month, I figured it was time to break out the fall bucket list.
I love lists! I love laying everything out in one space, I love the satisfaction of crossing things off when they are completed, I love seeing my to-do list in front of me. It should come as no surprise that I love seasonal bucket lists. These lists serve as a way to get ideas for weekends activities, time with family or even dates. I carried some items from my summer bucket list over to my fall bucket list that I didn’t accomplish yet.
Without further ado, here’s my Fall 2022 Bucket List!
Winery
Apple Picking
Coffee/Book store date
Brewery
Fall Walk
Collect Leaves
Apple Recipes
Clean Cars for fall and winter
Fall Festival
Get Pumpkins
Decorate for Fall
Bonfire and S’mores
Enjoy Candy Apple
Fall Drive
Try a New Soup Recipe
Enjoy Hot Apple Cider
Celebrate Halloween
Make a Candy Corn Recipe
Watch a Halloween movie
Try a new Pumpkin Recipe
Curl up and Read a Book
Celebrate Thanksgiving
If you are looking for ideas or inspiration for fall fun, may consider checking an item or two off this list. I would love to hear what’s on your fall bucket lists too! Feel free to share them with me below!
Happy Wednesday! As we wind down with another month, I’m sharing what I’ve been up to this past month. August was a busy month, from days trips to family vacations and last minute cramming in all the summer fun!
What I’ve been up to-This month was filled with soaking up summer! From bonfires, a trip to an amusement park at home, a family vacation, packing up my brother for college and a weekend wedding, plus add in wrapping up a big work project, August was a busy month, but so fun! It was so good to soak up the sunshine and squeeze in some summer fun!
Summer s’mores and bonfires!
Family trip to the beach!
Fun times being a kid at a local amusement park.
What I’m Wearing– As summer winds down, I’m making sure I wear all my summer clothes, from sundresses, shorts and t shirts and bathing suits! We took our family trip to the beach and it was so good to just wear a bathing suit and shorts most of the trip, it reminded me the days of being a kid. Old Navy had a few great sales that I fully took advantage of. Be sure to stay tuned on a clothing haul post soon!
My uniform for the beach (and most of the summer)…shorts and t shirts!
What I’m Reading-August was such a good reading month! I read three great books back to back! I started the month with Finding Freedom. This books follows the story of Harry and Meghan from when they met to their decision to step back as Senior Working Royals. I’ve always been interested in the Royal Family and found this book to be so enlightening. If you are interested in Harry and Meghan, I definitely recommend this book.
After such a good book, I didn’t know how to top it, well I found it with One Italian Summer. This is one of the hottest books this summer! I’ve been on a waiting list to read it since May. It was definitely worth the wait. It follows the story of a young woman who loses her mother and takes a trip to Italy and learns more about who her mother was as a young woman. I loved the description and how vivid the author makes the setting in the book. I loved the plot twist at the end! 5 STARS for me!
After hearing about this next book for years, I finally got my hands on Daisy Jones and the Six. I loved the way this book was told (it’s told through a series of interviews). The story follows the story of a fictional band and what led to their formation to what led to their demise. I fell in love with the characters and the plot. I can’t wait to watch the series on Amazon Prime.
What I’m Watching: I’ve been spending so much time outdoors, I haven’t been watching a lot of movies or shows this summer. I did recently finish Maid on Netflix which follows the true story of a young woman and mom who after getting out of a bad relationship must start from the ground up. I shared a bit about it on my last currently. It was definitely a heavier mini series but it’s one that really sticks with you. After hearing a lot about it, I’m glad I got to watch it for myself.
What I’m Loving: All the times outdoors! From walks to zoo trips, amusement parks, beach days, even just sitting by the pool. I’m doing my best to get outdoors as much as I can before the seasons change.
Time spent reading and outdoors is a favorite of mine in the summer!
Grilling has been another summer favorite!
What Inspires Me: After spending a few days at the beach, I really loved having a few days to slow down. I’ve found that day to day, you don’t realize how busy life gets and how it’s always go, go, go, until you stop to catch your breath. I’m glad I had a few days to recharge and slow down.
It felt so good to relax for a few days at the beach!
Enjoying outdoor dining was another summer favorite!
What I Accomplished: I checked off almost all my summer bucket list options as shown from my post last week, plus I got a few extra activities thrown in too
Ending the summer months by relaxing at a lake for the weekend.
Goals from Last Month: From a family vacation to entertaining guests, afternoons reading and nights swimming. I got so much in and the good news is just because kids may be back to school doesn’t mean the weather gets cold, I’m looking forward to spending more time outdoors as long as the weather permits it!
Beach days!
And ice cream nights!
Goals for this Month: As much as I hate to say this while still in August, next month, I’m looking forward the transition of one season to another. I’m excited to start thinking about my fall bucket list and still enjoying the time outdoors. I love walks in the fall and seeing the leaves change. Thankfully we still have time before it gets too cold, so right now I’m going to enjoy all the sunshine I can and I hope you will too!
I have another edition of Friday Favorites! Once again, I’m teaming up with Erika and Andrea for a second edition of Friday Favorites! Here’s some things I’ve been loving this past week!
New Blogs- I have my go-to blogs that I love to follow and read every day, here’s some of my favorites. But, recently, I’ve been finding some new ones that are right up my alley. I started reading Ashley Brooke’s blog and I love how she shares about lifestyle, fashion, home decor and motherhood. Definitely a fun read to add to my daily blogs!
2. New Facial Cleanser – I was out of town for a few days and like I posted a few weeks back in this post, I tried some sample products! I love how this facial cleanser smells and how it leaves my skin feeling refreshed.. I love my current facial routine at home and won’t be switching it but this was a fun change up for a few days!
3. Summer Sandals- I jumped on the trend with these shoes. They kept popping up while I was browsing stores online and while I was doing window shopping and I decided to bite the bullet and get them. I love the platform sandal and how you can pair them with shorts, skirts or sundresses. A summer fashion favorite for sure!
4. Columbus Zoo- I love zoos and animals and I got to go to the Columbus Zoo for the first time last week! It was so well laid out and fun to see so many animals, definitely worth a day trip. The weather was perfect for a day at the zoo!
5. Avocado Toast-I know I’m late to the party, but I’m been enjoying avocado toast this summer. One of my friends made it for me when I was visiting and I loved it. I’ve been enjoying for breakfast and brunch a few times this summer! Not only is it tasty but also filling.
That’s another edition of Friday Favorites! I hope you have a relaxing and fun August weekend! What are you loving this week?
Hi guys! Happy Friday or for some..Fri-YAY! After following several blogs for years, one of my favorite things about reading them is learning about some of their favorite products and things they are loving and where they get them thanks to their Friday favorites posts.
I decided to hop on the bandwagon and share some of my favorite things from the week. I’m not sure if this will become a weekly post for me or just an occasional post, but be sure to check in every Friday to find out. Don’t worry, I’ll still have my typical post for you every Wednesday. Without further ado, here’s my first edition of Friday Favorites as I link up with Erika and Andrea!
I always wear green primer for work. It’s one of the first things I put on after my skin care routine. I’ve been trying some other green primer brands and recently purchased this one from Cover Girl. I love the consistency of it, how easy it goes on and blends, plus it smells really good too. Definitely a favorite beauty trend!
When I put on my green primer and my eye primer, I have been using these makeup applicators. I got mine from Target but you can find them at most grocery or beauty stores, even Amazon. I love how they make it so much easier to apply makeup and you aren’t worrying about if the products get on your hands. I use the primer and these sponges daily!
I know I am way behind but I just read Daisy Jones and the Six this week and wow-what a great book. I’ve heard about it for years but never got around to reading it. I loved the plot line, fell in love with the characters, but my favorite way was how it was laid out, so creative! I can’t wait until the series comes out on Amazon Prime!
Speaking of streaming services, over the weekend, I watched Purple Hearts on Netflix and was so surprised with how much I enjoyed it! Sometimes, movies on streaming services can be hit or miss for me, but I really enjoyed watching this drama about two people who decide to get married for the benefits of marrying into the military. I really loved the character development and seeing these two characters go from strangers to falling in love. It got 5 Stars from me!
Soaking Up Summer
A final summer favorite has been soaking up the summer days of working outside. On weekends or afternoons, I do my best to get outside to read or work or just relax. I know I will be inside soon enough when snow comes, so i’m doing what i can to soak up the sunshine. This is also your motivation to spend some time outdoors today.
There you have it, my first Friday Favorites is in the books. Let me know below what’s included in your weekend plans?! Have a great weekend!
Hi all! Happy Wednesday! It makes me sad to think that we are already at the end of July. This summer is flying by. With summer more than half way through, I’m doing my best to make the most out of August and September with the nice, warm weather before the seasons change!
As always, it’s time for Currently, a look at my life over the past month. These past four weeks have been filled with walks, picnics, pool days, grilling and indulging in all the summer foods and friends!
What I’ve Been Up To: I’ve been doing everything in my power to be outside, from walks on weekends, to eating meals outside, going for ice cream dates and just reading outside. Our summer season feels so short, so I try my best to take advantage of the sunshine, blue skies and warm weather. I’ve also enjoyed a lot of time at home with events slowing down, it’s been nice to have a more open schedule.
I’ve enjoyed lots of summer walks in the morning, afternoon and night.
I’ve also enjoyed grilling at the parks after a long walk
What I’m Wearing: I’ve been teasing it for a while but NEXT WEEK will be my summer dress round up. It’s been so fun to try new dresses and styles all summer long. In other clothing choices, I’ve been wearing lots of short sets for walks, some t-shirt dresses for evenings out and then I’ve been rotating some graphic tees as well. I like to keep it simple in the summer with easy things to throw on so no matter what I’m doing I’m comfortable, especially on days off.
An example of an outfit that I would wear on a day off!
What I’m Reading: I finished The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue and I didn’t know what to expect about this girl who never ages. I really enjoyed following the story as it begins in the 1700’s and continues to present day. There’s mystery, romance, suspense, and some magic too. When Adeline makes a deal in the 1700’s it has lasting effecst that she was never expecting. I love how the book jumps through time periods and you get to see her in different places and times. Even if you don’t read this book, I encourage you to read a book from a genre you typically don’t read, you may surprised about what you enjoy.
I also finished The Paris Library this past month. This historical fiction book goes back and forth between the 1940’s in Paris and the 1980’s in Montana. It follows the story of a woman who works in a library during World War II and then flashes forward to her life in the 1980’s living in the United States. Again, there’s some mystery and intrigue and some romance. I love how the book goes back and forth between time periods too!
What I’m Watching: I jumped on the band wagon and binged “The Summer I Turned Pretty” on Amazon Prime. It was a great coming of age series that had a lot more depth than I was anticipating, there was lots of lightheartedness but also drama and suspense. Definitely worth the watch this summer.
I’ve also been watching another drama, “Maid” on Netflix. It tells the story of a young woman who hits rock bottom and looks to start over by working as a maid. It’s definitely a heavier show, but really good.
Besides tv shows, I went to see the new Elvis movie and I was blown away. I really enjoyed the storyline, the iconic music and learning about Elvis. It was worth seeing it on the big screen.
What I’m Loving: LOTS OF WALKS! I’ve been doing my best on my days off to take longers walks. I’ve ventured to Pittsburgh for a day trip to the zoo and a park.
One of my favorite exhibits at the zoo.
And a walk by the water.
I’v traveled to Bemus Point, New York for a morning at a State Park there and then enjoying the beauty.
Sweet summertime in New York.
I’ve also enjoyed fairs, festivals, live music and food trucks this summer. All things on my bucket list too!
Local fairs
And festivals
Concerts by the water
Food truck treats!
I also went strawberry picking last month and made a lot of different tasty treats with my haul.
Such a fun activity!
I made strawberry jam, strawberry and lemon bread and then strawberry shortcake too! Yum!
The haul!
Strawberry jam!
Strawberry and lemon bread
Strawberry shortcake
What Inspires Me: Summertime means fresh flowers. I’ve been enjoying talking long walks to cut flowers to put in vases around the house. I always enjoy having the smell of fresh flowers in my room and I’ve enjoyed adding them to other rooms in the house too.
Fresh flowers from the garden
What I Accomplished: After a busy first month of summer, I’ve been happy that I got to slow down more this month. There’s been more afternoons by the pool, more mornings spent reading and late nights visiting with friends.
A summer stroll closer to home!
Goals from Last Month: I had a wonderful time celebrating the Fourth of July with family. I also got to see some relatives from out of town which was lots of fun. In addition to family, I have been enjoying time with friends. From dinners to walks and ice cream runs, it’s been great to get outside and spend time with friends. I’ve also been lucky to see friends I haven’t seen in a long time. It was so great to catch up in person and the visit was long overdue! I am looking forward to more time with friends next month.
Fireworks on the Fourth!
Goals for this Month: I really want to cross off the final things on my summer bucket list. I’ve been doing well so far, but there’s a few things I’m looking forward to checking off-some of them are new things to me too! I’m also really just looking forward to relaxing and enjoying summer days and nights too. Soaking up summer is what it’s all about.
Sweet summertime!
How are you planning on spending the last full month of summer? I know you can catch me outside! Let me know how you will be spending summer in the comments below!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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 Wednesday. I hope your week has been filled with sunshine, warm weather, and all the spring vibes (or something like that).
Today, I have a currently lined up for your reading. I know it’s a bit earlier in the month, but I have an extra special post set up for next week
Without further ado, here’s a look into what I’ve been up to this past month.
What I’m up to: I’ve been LOVING all the warm weather. Last week we had weather in the 70s all week long. I’ve been trying to get outside more after work, whether it’s for a walk or just to sit and read. I’ve also been enjoying making lighter and summery meals.
Seeing flowers and plants and trees in bloom brings a smile to my face.
A few weeks ago I made a lemon chicken sheet pan dinner which was so flavorful and easy. I got the recipe from Mix and Match Mama and I really enjoyed cooking it.
A look at my meal from a few weeks ago.
I also celebrated Mother’s Day with my family and enjoyed dinner with my family and a trip to the zoo.
A few shots of our trip to the zoo.
Such an array of colors.
I’ve also managed to enjoy some friend time over the past few weeks which was much needed.
What I’m wearing: I’m always on the look for work dresses and clothes. I often stop into stores like Marshall’s of TJ Maxx just to see if there’s ever new finds. I lucked out big time during my last time in finding affordable and fashionable clothes. As far as casual clothes, I’ve been able to break out some shorts and t-shirts which just makes me happy that warm weather is here and here to stay.
I also got a fresh trim for summer which was much needed!
What I’m reading: I finished Not A Happy Family and wow-what a good book. I couldn’t it down. I’m typically not a thriller lover but this was soooo good. A great mix of mystery and thriller and not too scary.
I’m currently reading, Paris is Always a Good Idea and it’s the opposite of Not A Happy Family, it’s light and fluffy and will make you want to travel. It’s such a good call for summer.
What I’m watching: I started and finished season 5 of Selling Sunset, it’s such a guilty pleasure, I started to watch it when it came out for the real estate, but now I watch for the drama. Haha!
On a more serious note, I watched The Anatomy of a Scandal and loved it. I finished it in one weekend. Another great cliffhanger mini series with a great cast.
What I’m Loving: ALL the WARM and SPRING weather. That’s all. I love being outside and enjoying ice cream and walks after work and not having to wear all the layers.
I even had my first hot dog grilling of the season which just gets me in the summer mode.
What Inspires Me: I’ve been planning a few fun summer plans and excursions and it’s making me excited for summer and adventures and more hikes and times with friends and family and maybe even a trip or two. I’ll be sharing my summer bucket list at the start of June!
I’ve already been to the beach once for a walk this summer and I can’t wait to head back more.
What I Accomplished: I enjoyed celebrating my mom for Mother’s Day at the beginning of the month and I had a few other special birthdays too. We enjoyed a fun family meal to celebrate my mom.
The process
The finished product
I still have a few graduations and my birthday to celebrate so I’m excited for those in the coming weeks.
Goals from Last Month: I’ve been really good at seeing friends consistently who live in town and making time for friends out of town. I also got a lot of start of spring/summer must dos done like different odds and ends that feels good to start a new month on the right foot. I also took a day trip with my mom and brother to the National Comedy Center in Jamestown which was so fun and I learned a lot too.
A look at the iconic I Love Lucy set.
And some scripts from The Office.
Goals for Next Month: I’m looking forward to starting my summer bucket list and enjoying time outside with my family. I have a graduation and some day trips planned to see friends so I’m looking forward to that. I’m also excited to spend time with friends and family and enjoy more time grilling and swimming and trying to take it slow? I know, easier said than done. Overall, I’m just really excited for summer!
Fresh lemonade and a good book. The perfect combo!
That’s a look at my life today. Lots of family time, time outdoors and good food. How’s life been looking for you the past month? Let me know.
5 years…every week for the past five years, I’ve sat down and opened my laptop and began to write.
Some days, it was therapeutic to put into words what’s been on my mind, other days I got to talk about things I’m passionate about, like products, books, or movies.
When I started my blog at the end of my freshmen year of college, I was looking for a creative outlet. I was homesick and I was searching for a hobby and decided why not write. My blog was a way to keep family members and friends in the loop about what I was doing and as a way to express myself.
A look at some of my first posts.
I looked forward to sharing different outfits and life hacks each week. As I grew up and matured, so did my blog. I changed the style and content as I made my way through college and graduated. If you have been following since the very beginning, you know there’s been changes with color schemes and the days I posted and even some of the topics. It’s been fun to look back and see how far I have come since May 2017.
Another throwback to one of my first outfits.
I learned balance with my blog as I started my first job. Every weekend I always looked forward to working on something creative and fun, especially as our world changed with the pandemic. Even with all the unknowns and at sometimes darkness, my blog was a bright spot for me and hopefully for others.
From college to my first day of work
I’ve learned a lot about myself these past five years. I’ve learned that it’s okay to be vulnerable and share what’s on your mind, whether it’s about eating alone or transitioning from college to working. I’ve learned the importance of making time for yourself and finding joy every day, whether it’s through journaling or walks or cooking.
Enjoying the simple things in life like apple picking has been something I’ve leaned into more these past few years.
While I’ve learned a lot so far, I know I still have a ways to go. I’m excited to see what this next year brings. My hope is that it brings more life lessons, more memories, and most importantly, little moments that bring joy every day.
To those who read my blog posts when I started writing them sitting in my college dorm room, thank you for sticking with me! And, to those who started following along as I now write them on weekend with my dog curled up on my lap back home, thank you for stopping by.
I hope my blog brings you a little bit of joy, like it does for me every day.
Here’s to a new year, a new chapter, and taking life one day at a time.
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!
Hey everyone! Happy Wednesday! Can you believe we are days away from April? Where did March go, it’s finally starting to feel like spring and I’m here for it! March was a packed month full of work, fun, getting some sunshine, and getting ready for spring!
What I’m up to: This past month has been filled with spring cleaning, getting outside for walks, lots of reading, and then time with family and catching up with friends. It’s been a good mix of relaxing and getting things done, those are my favorite kind of days and months. I spent the day in Pittsburgh a few weeks back and enjoyed a tasty lunch and an afternoon at the Art museum. It felt so good to take a road trip and be surrounded by art and change up my normal routine.
Snapshots of the Art museum.
Our tasty lunch of pizza and salad!
More art!
What I’m wearing: We got a few days in the 50s and it was so nice to be outside in just a long-sleeve shirt and jeans. I’ve also been trading my winter jacket for my trench coat, there’s nothing better than sporting lighter jackets. I have also being wearing sneakers more as opposed to boots-another win!
What I’m reading: I finished Pride and Prejudice which was such a nice treat down memory lane. Now, I just need to find the time to rewatch the mini series.
I also read Katie Couric’s book, Going There. I loved every page. I learned so much about Couric’s background and it was fascinating to read how she got to where she is today. It was insightful and eye opening.
I’m currently reading Business Minded by one of my favorite bloggers, Carly Riordan. I’m loving learning about different small businesses and how they got their starts.
What I’m Watching: Through the past month I’ve made my way through the new season of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. It was such a good show to watch. I loved everything from the storylines to the fun guest characters and most importantly-the fashion! I love the styles and bright colors! I’ve also been binge watching Downton Abbey, and I’m not ashamed to say that I’m hooked. It’s been the perfect way to unwind and escape the craziness of the day to day life.
What I’m Loving: I’ve been loving the changing seasons and the anticipation of spring.I got coffee and went on a two mile walk with a friend last week which was much needed and great to get outside. I also decorated areas of my home for spring and Easter. I also got a chance to head to our local zoo which was fun to get outside and enjoy the animals.
What Inspires Me: I’ve been inspired by fresh starts and the spring season and new beginnings. I got some fresh flowers for my room and added some Easter eggs for some decorations and it quickly brightened up the room. I’m excited for a season of new beginnings and warmer weather.
Fresh flowers and the sun peaking through
What I accomplished: After all my cleaning and organizing, I feel such a sense of accomplishment and ready for spring and summer with a clean slate. I sorted and donated lots of things from clothes to shoes and items I no longer need. It felt so good to clean things out and donate two huge bags of things to those in need. I’ve also been cleaning lots of different closets and drawers and it’s so good to see more spaces empty and not filled with clutter.
Goals Accomplished from Last Month: I started cooking again! This was a huge accomplishment for me. I made a chicken picatta dish a few weeks ago and I also made a fresh tomato basil sauce with pasta. It’s been fun to research different recipes and try them out.
One of my latest recipes, thanks to Joanna Gaines, Magnolia cook book.
Goals for the New Month: I’m looking forward to celebrating Easter and starting to get the outdoors ready for spring and summer. I’m also looking forward to taking more day trips and getting outdoors more.
That’s a look into life this past month. A month of decluttering, time with family and time getting ready for the new season. How have you spent your past month?
