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Let's Look

Let’s Look: Summer Schedules

Hello All!

Happy Wednesday! If you are in summer mode, I hope you are embracing the summer season and everything that comes with it. If your life is still normal and not much has changed except for the weather, I hope you are able to enjoy the warm temperatures in the midst of your everyday happenings.

Taking time slow down in the summer months.

It’s the second Wednesday of the month which means it’s time for another Let’s Look as I link up with with Shay and Erika.This has been such a fun link up for me as I love sharing bits and pieces of my life and I love learning from others too.

Here’s a look at some of the topics we have discussed so far this year:

In January, we talked about How We Clean Our Closets.

In February, the topic was Things We Do Every Day

In March, it was all about what’s in our Grocery Carts

In April, we chatted about our Quiet and Prayer Time.

In May, we talked about Summer Staples.

Today’s topic is all about our summer schedules.

My summer schedule doesn’t look too much different compared to my schedule throughout the year. Because I work full-time and year-round, how I structure my day doesn’t change no matter the season. I work the same days and hours and things stay pretty status quo. However, I do try to keep my schedule more open in the summer months to allow for more flexibility with events and plans. I have siblings who are home from school and like to spend time with them when I’m not working. I also like to build in time for day trips, family vacations, and time to do things before or after work. In the other three seasons, I often try to add things to do after work, but in the summer, I like to have as little on my calendar as possible to allow room for spontaneity. If I want to go to a baseball game after work on a Tuesday, I want to be able to do that without having to rearrange schedules or plans.  

In the fall and winter, I tend to schedule more doctor’s appointments or make plans to accomplish different house projects or personal projects on days off. I really like to maximize my time the best I can, but in the summertime, I put the projects on hold to really enjoy the weather and time outside and build in time for loved ones.

I always like to make my summer bucket list which I shared last week, which always gives me ideas of things to do with my boyfriend or friends or family. It also holds me accountable for what I want to make sure I accomplish every week.

Whether you have a strict summer schedule or routine due to children being out of school, or you like to let things go and add more flexibility in your schedule, I highly recommend giving yourself grace and being present. 

A few weeks ago, I got home from work on a Sunday afternoon and rather than rush to get things done like laundry or cleaning, I decided to go for a walk, sit outside and have a slow dinner that wasn’t rushed. The laundry got done after the sun went down and the cleaning was a quick dusting as opposed to a deep dive, however, I was much happier by sitting in the sun as opposed to working indoors. When I think of summer, I like to think of slow afternoons, nights by the grill, and being tired because you spent too much time in the sun. That’s what I’m hoping for this summer. I know not every day will be like that, but if I can squeeze in more calm days as opposed to rushing around and always being in a hurry, I will be happy. 

I know this wasn’t how the prompt was intended, but I took my own spin on it. Tell me: As we gear up for summer, what are your hopes and dreams and how do you want your summer to look and feel? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy June!

Categories
Fabulous living

Summer Bucket List

Hello all!

Happy June! I hope you had a great first weekend of June and are enjoying the unofficial start to the summer season. Memorial Day and June always gets me in the summer spirit and with that comes my summer bucket list.

I did fairly well with my spring bucket list, but I am excited for the next few months of summer fun activities, both local and around the region. 

Here’s a look at what I hope to accomplish over the next few months and who knows, maybe it will give you some ideas too!

-Watch the sunrise and sunset at the beach with fresh donuts

-Summer Walks at some of my favorite spots (North East, Wintergreen Gorge)

-Baseball Games

-Zoo Trips

-Ice Cream Dates (Denny’s Creamland, Whippy Dip, Lucky Duck, J’s)

-Beach Day and Sara’s

-Lakeside Bagel and Edinboro with Mini Golf

-Run a 10K

-Grilling near and far

-Pool Days

-Family Trip

-Day Trips

-Double Dates

-Walks with Friends 

-Fruit Picking

-Heritage Festivals

-Summer Picnics

-Kayak

-Visit a New Place

That’s a look at what I hope to accomplish this summer. What’s on your summer bucket list or summer to do? I would love to hear from you! Have a fabulous Wednesday!

Categories
Let's Look

Let’s Look: Summer Staples

Hello All!

Happy Wednesday! I hope you are enjoying May and the fresh starts the season brings. It’s the second Wednesday of the month which means it’s time for another Let’s Look as I link up with Shay and Erika.

Here’s a recap of the topics we have covered so far this year

In January, we talked about How We Clean Our Closets.

In February, the topic was Things We Do Every Day

In March, it was all about what’s in our Grocery Carts

In April, we chatted about our Quiet and Prayer Time.

This month’s topic is Summer Staples.

I’m going to be sharing some new items that I purchased for this season and some of my favorite items that I have loved through the years.

Let’s start with the new items:

I love a good wedge especially for going out and when I saw these heels for sale at Marshall’s I knew I had to get them. I shared them just last week as a part of my Friday favorites! Wedges provide more support for me and I can pair them with multiple outfits. You can wear these with a pair of white jeans or capris and fun blouse, a short sundress, or a longer, flowy dress depending on the occasion. I can’t wait to wear them this summer.

Now let’s get to the tried and true:

I love having a solid long and flowy dress in my closet. I got this black one from Old Navy and adore the style. You can pair it with sandals or wedges and wear it to the beach, out shopping or out to dinner. Throw on a jean jacket or sweater and you are set.

From long to short, I love having a good t-shirt dress in my closet too. I have a few solid and print dresses and love to pair them with sneakers for a sporty look or sandals for a dressed up look.

Cotton shorts are such an easy go-to when you are looking to throw something on after a day at the pool or beach. I have a pair of cotton shorts in both blue and white and I am constantly reaching for them in the summer months.

Graphic t-shirt, if you are looking for an easy and casual shirt to pair with a pair of cotton shorts or regular shorts, you can’t go wrong with a graphic t-shirt. I personally love ones that I have gotten from different places I have traveled to, it’s a great memory of where you have been and a cute item to add to your wardrobe. 

Fun sandals are something that can really elevate your outfit, whether they are with a pair of shorts or a dress or even a skirt, I love a pair of sandals that can add some flair and fun to your outfit.

A tennis dress or skirt are two items I added to my closet last summer and I got so much wear out of them. I got both of these from Amazon and once again, they were easy outfits to wear after a day at work, at the pool, or running errands.

These are some of my favorite summer staples that are go-to’s for me in the closet. I am looking to add a few new items this summer including some white capris, denim shorts, and some cover-ups for the pool or beach. Tell me: what are some of your summer must-haves?! Let me know in the comments below and if you have any suggestions for denim shorts or cover-ups, I’m all ears! 

See you back here on Friday!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #48

Hello All! 

It’s the final day of June, but no fear, we still have plenty of summer to enjoy! I just got back from some time with my family at the beach.

The beauty of the beach!

It was great to see some extended family, catch up, and enjoy some time in the water and in the sand. The older I get, the more I realize how important it is to make time for family. 

Ending June with ice cream.

This next week will busy between getting back into the swing of things and heading back to work.

Plus, we have the Fourth of July next week, in the middle of the week, no less and then I have plans to see some friends from college. It will be a busy but good week coming up.

Now, that I have caught you up on everything in my world this final Friday in June, it’s time for a new edition of Friday Favorites as I link up with Erika and Andrea!

Super Goop Sunscreen– I know I am so late to the party on this one, but I am on the team Super Goop sunscreen train! I have heard about it for years and got a face sunscreen for my birthday and have worn it a lot. It goes on so easy and has a bit of a glow which I really love. The sunscreen protects you from the sun and acts as a primer for makeup which I found to be super helpful too. On days when I know I am going to be outside all day, I always apply it to my face, do my makeup and then I am good to go. This is easily becoming one of my summer favorites. 

And Just Like That Premiere– The girls are back! I loved watching the premiere of And Just Like That last week. I like how episodes are once a week, they are the perfect mid-week pick me up. I have read a little bit about some cameo appearances and I’m looking forward to see how the storylines make their way into the show. From the setting, the fashion, the nostalgia and the friendship, plus some fun relationships, I know this will be a good season. If you are watching, what are your thoughts so far?

Lululemon Purse– I got my Lululemon cross body purse for Christmas and have been loving it this summer. I brought it on day trips, running errands and out on walks. It’s the perfect size to hold a wallet, keys, a sunglasses, head phones, even a charger. It has come in so handy this summer. I’ll be sharing more about my love for it in next week’s post!

The best summer purse!

New Scent– It’s time for a new scent for summer. I am currently wearing Gingham Gorgeous! I love the fresh, floral scent it brings whenever I put it on. I got it from Bath and Body Works and it will last me months. The perfect, fresh summer scent as we enter July!

New month, new scent!

A Man Called Otto– Have you seen A Man Called Otto? It came out a few months ago, but just recently came onto Netflix. I really love Tom Hanks so I was excited to see this film, plus some of it was filmed in Pittsburgh, how cool!? We started the movie as a family and I finished it on my own. It was definitely a heavier movie dealing with deep topics including suicide, just as a warning. It’s all about a grumpy man who befriends new neighbors and how they get him to come out of his shell and start to enjoy life again. There were a lot of happy and joyous moments, but it was mixed with some adult topics too. I thought it was a good movie, but not the best Tom Hanks movie. If you have seen it, what did you think of it?

That’s a roundup of life this week. It’s always so busy coming back to reality after time away, but I’m ready to hit the ground running and get back into a good routine. As we say hello to July, how are you spending the weekend? Let me know in the comments below! Enjoy the last day of June!

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Currently

Currently #42

June, where have you gone?! I can’t believe we are at the end of another month. There were certain times that this month felt slow and sweet and then I blinked, and I was planning things for July. These past 30 days have been filled with lots of walks, books, grilling, sunshine, and summer adventures. I have been making my way through my summer bucket list and doing more things that weren’t on the list. As we prepare to flip the calendar. Here’s a look at what’s Currently going on in my life.

What I’ve Been Up To: Through the entire month of June, I have been marking things off my summer bucket list. From day trips, to picnics, walks and time outdoors, I have done a lot. 

This month, I made a trip to Columbus, where I went to the zoo and state park for grilling and a beach day. 

Columbus Zoo!
More animals- I loved the polar bears!
And gorillas!
And finished the day at the beach!

I also enjoyed playing mini golf and trying a new to me pizza shop and park for a walk.

Pizza in the park!

Picking strawberries was on my summer bucket list and I accomplished that and made seven jars of jam in addition to lots of fresh berries to eat.

Strawberry picking day!
Our haul!
Some of the end results!
And strawberry shortcake too!

Another big highlight of the month was my birthday present from my boyfriend, more on that in the coming weeks!

Here’s a tease for where I went…

I rounded out the month with a trip to the beach to visit family and it was so good to see relatives and get some time by the water.

The shores of New Jersey!
The boardwalk!

What I’m Wearing: Besides your typical shorts and graphic t-shirts on days off, I did a big summer clothing haul at the start of summer and have been wearing new pieces to work. Lots of bright colors and patterns, plus quality clothing coming your way too.

One of my new dresses. I have been wearing lots of pink!

I also have been wearing lots of short sets too! Like this one!

 

What I’m Reading: I got a lot of books for my birthday and have been slowly making my way through them.

I started this month with Best Served Hot. I saw this book on display at the library and was immediately drawn in by the plot and checked all the boxes for a good read! Rom-com, takes place in a big city, and talks about food! The story follows a food critique and a food influencer as they try out different restaurants in NYC, first as competitors and then on a collaborators. The best and dare I say, worst part of the book was the details of all the foods they were tasting. The description was so vivid, which just made me hungry while I was reading.

I also read Our Missing Hearts by Celeste Ng. I really enjoyed her book, Little Fires Everywhere and I was excited to read this book. I will admit, it was a heavier novel, but I learned so much about the Asian American culture and customs. It’s all about the lengths a mother will go to protect her family while doing what she thinks is right. Themes of unconditional love, sacrifice and coming of age are found throughout the book.

I also read Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman. This book takes a scientific approach to productivity and time management. I am all about maximizing my time and being as efficient as possible. This book was more research based and didn’t have as many tips or advice about management, but I still found it interesting. I appreciated how the book focused on time management through history and ways we can be make the most of our time on Earth.

What I’m Watching: I haven’t been watching too much tv as I have been doing my best to be outdoors as much as possible. I have watched some good family movies, like Air and A Man Called Otto.

Family movie night!

I also finished the series, Ted Lasso which was really good. I think the series wrapped up very nicely and I like how everyone’s storylines had closure. It was such a fun show to binge and watch week to too.

I also watched The Night Agent on Netflix. This was only ten episodes, with which episode lasting about 45 minutes. It was a mix mystery, intrigue, action, drama, and thriller, those are all good things I’m looking for in a series. I would recommend it if you were looking for a new show to binge watch.

The new season of Outlander is back! I have been making my way through season seven every week when their episodes air. 

Outlander is back!

And Just Like That Season 2. The girls are back with And Just Like That! I really enjoyed season one and have been enjoying what season has brought. It’s also been a fun show to watch weekly. 

What Inspires Me: I’ve been so inspired by summer fun! From outdoor meals, walks, trying new recipes and celebrating milestones.

Walks by the water

I also have been getting my runs in weekly and have enjoyed feeling stronger with each run I go on.

My longest run!
Delicious summer meals!
Picnics by the shore

What I Accomplished: This past month has been all about welcoming summer and really trying to be present in the moment.

Summer grilling and salad

I’m always trying to find time to sneak in time outdoors, whether it’s visiting a bit longer outside after a meal, reading outdoors instead of inside or finding time to go for a quick walk. 

Slow mornings reading outdoors.

Goals from Last Month: I kicked off my summer bucket and have been proud of the progress I’ve made so far which has been a win.

Enjoying all the fresh foods!

Goals for Next Month: Keep enjoying summer! I know it may not seem like much, but I really am trying hard to be present in the moment and soak up the sun, go swimming, grill, go on picnics, and make memories!

More grilling nights with lots of salads and fruits!
And more fresh salads (do you sense a trend here?)

The older I get the more I know how sacred family time is, so I’m doing my best to spend as much time with family as I can!

The beach all quiet in the morning.

I also have a concert planned and plans to visit friends! I’m looking forward to seeing those plans through. Plus, a lot of our local fairs and festivals gets underway in July so I’m looking forward to checking those out too!

Ending June with ice cream.

That’s a look into what’s Currently going on. A whole lot of summer lovin!  How have you been spending your summer? Let me know in the comments below!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #47

Hello all and Happy Friday!

I know I say this every month, but I can’t believe we are at the end of the month. June felt like it went by in the blink of an eye, but also felt slow and smooth at the same time. I’ve been having lots of fun over the past few weeks with day trips, time with family and getting outdoors as much as I can.

I’ve been finding new places to explore this summer.

It’s time for another Friday Favorites as I link up with Erika and Andrea! Today is a mix of beauty products and some fun entertainment and some sweets too. Let’s dive right in!

Hair Mousse– If you have read past posts, you know I love to use what I have, not waste, and be resourceful, when comes with food, beauty products, and household items. I came across lots of beauty and hair products and have been making my way through using them and seeing what works well for my hair. I had been using thickening spray by Kristin Ess from Target and when I finished it, I started using the Instant Lift Hair Mousse. I use it right after the shower with wet hair. I put a pump of mousse and work it through my hair and then brush it all out. The one thing I have noticed is that if you don’t really brush it through, it will harden which can make styling your hair the next day or later in the day a challenge, so make sure it’s thoroughly in your hair. Once I finish the mousse, I will let you know which product I prefer. 

Trying out this product

Air– We had a family movie night last week which was so fun! All six of us enjoyed dinner in the family room while we watched Air. You can find it on Amazon Prime. It tells the true story about Michael Jordan’s partnership with Nike. This was such a great family movie if you have older kids. They do use foul language, so be warned but everyone in my family agreed that it was a great film. I loved learning about how they came up with concept with the Air Jordans and all the effort it took to get Jordan to sign with Nike. One of my favorite parts of the movie was seeing all the iconic 80’s memorabilia and seeing some great Nike quotes too. Time spent with family all watching a movie together has been a favorite summer memory for sure!

A fun, adult or teen family movie

Honey Lemon Stirrers– I’m not sure if it was the smoke from the Canadian wildfires, allergies or a cold, but I was sick for a few days a few weeks ago and nearly lost my voice. These honey lemon stirrers were a saving grace. When I’m at home, I can make a cup of tea and add lemon, or honey or sugar if needed. But, when I am on the go or at work, I don’t want to bring lots of extra items for a cup of tea. These honey lemon stirrers add sweetness and flavor and are so easy to throw in your purse or lunchbox. I found them at Marshall’s, but I have seen them or similar ones at Home Goods or T.J. Maxx, even Target or Giant Eagle. These are great to have on hand in your cabinet.

Great for sick days!

The Lazy Genius Birthday Podcast- I know my birthday was last month, but this is such a great podcast episode to listen to if your birthday is coming up. The Lazy Genius podcast episode talks all about the importance of planning your own birthday and making it a day fit just for you. It also touches on expectations of birthdays and the pressures that come with it. I think this is such a good reminder that it’s your birthday and it should go the way you want it to be, not necessarily how others think you should celebrate it. Kendra Adachi, the host, gives examples of ways to celebrate your birthday and the importance of pampering yourself or making sure you honor the day and milestone. The episode is only 18 minutes but found it so interesting. I will definitely be listening to more episodes in the future. If you have a birthday or big milestone coming up, I highly recommend checking out this episode.

Definitely worth the listen!

Outlander’s New Season– Outlander season 7 is out on Starz. After a long hiatus I was so happy to see it back. The first episode was filled with lots of drama, suspense and intrigue. I know this is going to be a good season based on the first episode. A lot of questions got answered, but it also opened up the door to more questions. Episodes come out once a week and it’s the best way to unwind at the end of the day.

Outlander is back!

That puts a bow on another edition of Friday Favorites. From hair and skin to movies and podcast, I think this post has you covered. I hope you have something fun planned on this last full weekend and week of June. Summer needs to slow down! 

Tell me: what do you have planned for the weekend? Let me know in the comments below!

Have a fantastic Friday!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #45

Hi friends! Happy Friday! I hope you are in the midst of soaking up the days of summer. Although summer as an adult isn’t nearly as fun as summer as a child, I am still enjoying the sunshine, warm weather and family time! This past week, I got the chance to catch up with two friends, spent lots of time outdoors and went on some fun day trips!

My pup enjoying the sunshine!

This week’s Friday Favorites has all things summer as we make our way through June! Let’s get started as I link up with Erika and Andrea!

Summer Garden– I teased this last week in my post and talked about it in my summer bucket list, but one of my goals for this summer was to plant a garden. I’ve been looking for a creative outlet where I could have an end result and I found it by planting a garden. Since I am just a beginner, I decided to keep it simple and do some seeds and some plants. I decided to buy cucumbers, tomatoes, and pepper plants and then carrot and pea seeds. I wanted to have a variety of options in case they didn’t all work out. Fingers crossed, I get to see the finished product in a few months, but I did enjoy picking the seeds, tending the garden and making signs too. I’ll keep you updated on my progress this summer!

My garden!
and signs!

Sure as the Sunrise– I mentioned this daily devotional by Emily Ley back in January and I have been reading it every morning and just finished it. It’s 100 daily devotionals and reflections with space for thoughts too. I took a brief break during Lent to do another devotional and just finished Ley’s book in time for summer. I really loved how the book was set-up with daily scripture, reflection and questions. Then at the end of every week, there were a few questions you could answer. You don’t have to start on January 1, so if you are looking for a new devotional or morning reading companion, I highly recommend this one. 

My favorite way to start the day

Birkenstocks– This may be one of my favorite birthday gifts. After seeing the trends for years, I finally decided to hop on the Birkenstock bandwagon and I’m so glad I did! I was on the hunt for a pair of sandals I could throw on if I had to run out to get the mail, hit the store, wear by the pool or just go for a walk and these were just what I was looking for. I love the rubber material (perfect for the pool) and white color. They are so comfortable too. I know these will be  a favorite all summer long!

New favorite summer shoe!

Chicken Kabobs– Another birthday related favorite! I decided on grilled Chicken Kabobs and veggies for my birthday dinner with pasta and fruit salad and it was delicious. I love grilled chicken with lots of seasoning and flavor and these were the perfect way to welcome 25! I am looking forward to trying new recipes with chicken kabobs and grilling this summer. I can’t wait to try new summer recipes. If you have any you love, drop them in the comments below!

Best birthday dinner!

Queen Charlotte– I finished a lot of series in May, so as June rolled around I was looking for a new show to start and I found that with Queen Charlotte! I love Bridgerton, so I was anxious to watch the prequel to the series. It definitely has the same feel of Bridgerton with the characters, clothes, one-liners and scenery, but has a heavier feel (if that makes sense?) I really have enjoyed learning about the Queen’s backstory and it has been such a fun way to escape our world and head back in time. The episodes are a bit longer, but there are fewer in the season. This would be a great summer binge!

Such a fun show to start!

That’s just a peak into life lately. Some fun new gifts, new shows, tasty food and hobbies! How have you been enjoying your summer so far?
Let me know in the comments below! 

Happy Weekend!

Categories
Fabulous living

Summer Bucket List

Hello all! Happy First full week of June! I feel like summer-mode was activated over Memorial Day weekend and it’s only gotten better from there. From summer walks, ice cream, grilling and family time, I have a great feeling about this summer!

Every season, I always like to share a bucket list with goals and ideas I like to accomplish. They range from date ideas, to activities with friends and family and some personal goals too. 

I got a lot of things accomplished from my Spring Bucket List, but carried a few things over to my Summer Bucket List.

Here’s a look at my Spring Bucket List and what I accomplished.

Spring Bucket List

Now, that we are leaving the Spring season and entering the summer season, it’s tie for an updated season bucket list.

Here’s a look at my Summer Bucket List:

-Beach and Pool Day

-Farmer’s Market

-Seawolves Game

-Heritage Festivals

-Gardens

-Tend to my own Garden

-Use Kitchen Aid to Try New Recipes

-Grilling

-Picnics

-Night Picnic

-Columbus Zoo

-Family Trip

-Go Someplace New

-Time with Friends Outside

-Summer Sleepover

-Kayak

-Sibling Dates

-Drive-in

-New Place to Hike

-Visit New State

-Run a 5K

-Try New Recipes-Lavender Lemonade

-Ice Cream Dates

-Entertain and Visit Friends

-Meal and read by the Water

-Fruit Picking

-Bonfire

-Amusement Park

That’s a look at my Summer Bucket List. A lot of local, fun, activities that I can do with friends, family and even by myself. I love crossing things off a list and having ideas to do on summer days. My goal for this summer is to soak up as much time as home with my family, siblings, friends and boyfriend. 

Summer 2023, I am ready for you!

Tell me, what is on your summer bucket list?!

I can’t wait to see what this summer brings!

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Friday Favorites

Friday Favorites #42

Hi friends! Happy Friday! I hope you have something fun planned for this weekend. I have been loving this spring weather. I have been trying to spend as much time as possible outside to soak up the sun! I’ve even been grilling and enjoying reading outdoors. Some of my favorite summer activities.

Summer grilling has begun!

I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea! for another edition of Friday Favorites. Here’s a roundup of some things I’ve been loving this week. 

Running– I can’t believe this is on my Friday Favorites list, but here we are. As the weather has been getting warmer, I’ve been running outside more. I’ve never been a runner, but one of my goals this summer is to run a 5K, so I’ve been preparing for it. I try to get longer runs on the weekends, and shorter runs on the weekdays. Slowly but surely, I’m getting there and I’m proud of myself for how far I’ve come.

Getting my runs in!

Coronation Behind the Scenes Video: Even though it’s been a few weeks, I’m still reading and following things about the Coronation of King Charles III. Last week, Will and Kate released a behind the scenes of Coronation weekend. You can watch it here. I loved seeing them getting ready for the big day and getting into the community for all the events. The video was so well produced, such a great recap of the weekend!

Such a good recap!

Jury Duty– Have you seen Jury Duty yet? It’s on Freevee through Amazon Prime and without giving too much away it’s about a group of people seated on a jury for a trial in Los Angeles, they are all actors who know the case is fake except for one of the jurors. There’s so many great one-liners and scenes, definitely worth the watch. 

Such a fun show!

Cuffed Jeans– As we are making our way through Spring, I have been wearing lots of transitional pieces of clothing that work for cooler mornings and hotter afternoons. Cuffed jeans and graphic t-shirts have been my go-to for the spring. Old Navy is a one stop shop for jeans, I love all the cuts and styles, but their regular cuts are my favorite. I have been wearing cuffed jeans non-stop this Spring.

A weekend look!

New Outlander Trailer- I am a big fan of the show, Outlander on Starz and the new trailer for Season 7 which airs this June dropped last week. This season brings us to the American Revolution. The trailer looks dramatic, intense and has some pretty big cliffhangers sprinkled throughout. I can’t wait to watch the new season. 

June can’t come soon enough!

So many favorite things this week, from shows to clothes and outdoor fun! I know I’ll be planning to soak up some sunshine this weekend and get some family time in too! How do you plan to spend your weekend? Let me know in the comments below!

Have a great weekend and a fantastic Friday!!

Categories
Fabulous living

Summer 2022 Recap

Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! I can’t believe we are at the end of August. The older I get the more I feel time moving faster and faster. Although, I no longer go to school and can still enjoy outdoor fun well into September and even October, the summer season feels like it’s winding down with kids heading back into the classroom. 

I had a packed full summer filled with lots of walks, reading by the pool, seeing friends and family and grilling. As I do every summer, I’m sharing my summer bucket list with a look at everything I accomplished.

Heritage Festivals/ Fairs- I got the chance to go to fairs for work for different stories but also managed to head to some with my family. We went to a community festival one day after work and enjoyed some classic fair food! Yum!

A local Cherry Festival
A local community fair

Day trips- day trips became a favorite for me this summer! From Pittsburgh to Columbus, shopping trips and visiting family! I made the most of weekends by enjoying day trips!

Mantees at the Columbus
Pittsburgh day trip

Zoos-speaking of zoos, I love animals and heading to zoos. I got to go to some of my favorites plus try some new ones! Here’s a collection of my favorite zoo memories this summer!

The aquarium at the Pittsburgh Zoo

Beach Day- I’m so lucky to have a beach so close to us. I made my way to the beach for walks, picnics, and ice cream runs this summer. I also got to head to some new beaches too when I had a day trip to Columbus! The lake and beach was so pretty and calm. 

A beach in Columbus
Beach days at home

Pool Day- I enjoyed lots of days off or evening by the pool, whether it was swimming, snacking or reading. Days by the pool were a favorite this summer by far!

Fresh drinks by the pool

Celebrate Fourth of July-The Fourth of July is always a fun way to celebrate the family and our nation. It’s one of my favorite days of the summer. From the food, to fireworks and family, it doesn’t get any better!

Fireworks on the Fourth!

Time with family- I got in so much fun family time this summer from just eating dinner, doing day trips or our mini vacation. As we all get older, it shows how important family truly is!

Summer bonfires

White Turkey-this is a summer tradition to enjoy a trip at a favorite restaurant of ours. I made the trip twice this summer and enjoyed the food both times!

Sara’s- another summer tradition to enjoy a favorite restaurant at home, from burgers to ice cream, it’s so good to savor those traditions!

See college friends- From a college friend’s wedding to FaceTime calls and a girls weekend, I got to see so many college friends. The only downside was that I didn’t take any pictures! But it was so nice just to be in the moment. 

Go Someplace New- I went to Columbus for the first time which was so fun! 

Zoo Fun!

Meal by the Water- I enjoyed my birthday dinner on the water and I had family visiting and we brought them to eat by the water! So pretty!

Sweet summertime!

Food tour- Although, I didn’t get to enjoy a food crawl/ tour, I still indulged a lot!

Fish Tacos-another summer favorite!
More summer snacks!

Picnicing- Picnicing was a summer staple for me this summer! From grilling to sandwiches and even snacks. Here’s a look at some picnic ideas!

Grilling after walks
Picnicing at State Parks
Snack picnics

Winery/Wine Tasting-While I didn’t go wine tasting, it’s a perfect fall activity that I’m looking forward to! 

Happy Hour/ Ice Cream Hour- I did happy hour with some friends on a weekend which was fun! I also enjoyed so much ice cream this summer from favorite shops to at home! It’s one of the sweetest parts of summer!

Food truck treats!

State/National Parks- I explored so many new and old parks this summer. I loved getting out and enjoying nature, taking it all in and disconnecting for a bit! Much needed

Walks after work
Sweet summertime in New York.

John Russell Brewing- While I didn’t get to this restaurant in the summer, I plan to go once it’s colder out and there’s not as much to do outdoors. 

Mini Golf- One of the first things I did this summer! A great way to kick off June!

Mini golf days

Kayaking- Although I didn’t get to it this summer, I still made sure I got outdoors as much as I could. 

Amusement Park- I spent an afternoon at an amusement park and water park and I felt like a child once again from the slides to the rides! So fun!

Outdoor Concert- I enjoyed heading to some live shows this summer. It was great to be by the water and enjoy live music during the week!

Concerts by the water

A few other things I got to enjoy this summer that wasn’t on my summer bucket list include a baseball game, strawberry picking and lots of baking 

Nights at the ball park
Strawberry picking
Baking banana bread!