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Currently

Currently #44

Happy Wednesday! I hope you are having a great week! Remember how I felt like July went by in a blink of an eye? Well August went by even faster. This month has been a whirlwind between traveling, big work projects, back to school, and wrapping up summer fun! 

As one month end and another one begins, Iā€™m recapping this past month and all the memories and adventures that came with it.

Hereā€™s a look at this monthā€™s Currently.

What I’m Up To: This past month has been all about soaking up the final days of summer, from hiking in new places, completing bucket list items, and traveling to new places, I have been busy but in the best way possible.

It’s local festival season!
And local farm show season!
Plus, no summer event isn’t complete without a funnel cake!

Iā€™ve attended community fairs and festivals, been spending lots of time outside and have been reading lots of fun, summer books. 

My trip to Toronto was a highlight for sure!

What I’m Wearing: I have been continuing the trend of shorts and graphic tees.When my family and I went on vacation to San Diego, California, I wore a lot of neutrals to mix and match and keep it simple for travel. Hereā€™s some of my favorite summer outfits. My shorts are from Old Navy and so are some of my shirts too.

A few of my looks from vacation.
Lots of color coordinated outfits.
And some bright colors too!

I have also been doing my best to wear all the bright colors for my dresses for work. I only have a small window to wear in the warm months, so Iā€™m doing my best to wear them all. 

Bright blue for work!

What I’m Reading: This past month has been such a good month for reading for me 

 Love and Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch follows the story of a young girl who loses her mom and her momā€™s dying wish is for her daughter to go to Florence and reconnect with people from her motherā€™s time when she lived there. This book checks all the boxes for a cute rom com book. Dreamy city, beautiful description, incredible Italian food and desserts, and a little romance too. I blitzed through this book and was so sad when it came to an end. 

The sweetest summer book!

Meet Me at the Lake by Carley Fortune tells the story a young woman who takes over her motherā€™s resort on the lake. She plans on making some changes when she gets some unexpected help from someone from her past that she always wanted to forgot. I really enjoyed the story and finished it within a week. Iā€™m also excited that itā€™s going to be making its way to the screen as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will be working with Netflix to turn it into a movie.

 

Better than Fiction by Alexa Martin and it combined two of my favorite hobbies, reading and hiking! This book follows the story of a young woman who inherits her grandmotherā€™s book store. As she tries to manage this new project, enter a fan-favorite author. Heā€™s visiting her small town for inspiration for his new book and they make a deal. She shows him around the area and he teaches her how to love books. 

Mrs. Nash’s Ashes by Sarah Adler follows the story of a young woman who makes it her mission to deliver her neighbor turned best friend’s ashes to her long lost lover. However, the journey to get the ashes delivered does not go smooth. She ends up traveling with someone from her past and they endure all sorts of detours. The book goes back and forth between the past and present and thereā€™s so many twists and turns, you will question if they will ever make it to their final destination.

What I’m Watching: As summer winds down, Iā€™m finishing up my summer shows. I finished season two of the Summer I Turned Pretty. Overall, I thought the season was pretty good. I definitely enjoyed the first season more but I thought the second season had some great storylines and the finale left a lot of questions for season 3! If you watched, what did you think of the finale and Bellyā€™s choice?

I also finished the first part of Outlander. This was another show that had a lot of ups and downs this season. There were some major plot twists with characters that I did not see coming. Iā€™m anxious to see where it picks up and how things get wrapped up when it returns. 

I also finished season two of “And Just Like That”, it was such a good season. I loved the callbacks to earlier seasons of the show, the fashion and the friendships. The finale was really good, especially with the surprise appearance by Samantha! I was also excited to see that the show was renewed for season 3! I already can’t wait for next season!

And last but not least, I finished the new season of Sweet Magnolias. Although, there was some drama this season including some fights, fallouts and relationship shakeups between characters, I really enjoyed seeing the characters come together in the end.

What Inspires Me: I have been enjoying all the summer salads with fresh fruits and vegetables. I hate wasting food, so I have been enjoying salads and bowls with lots of food that I already have in the fridge. Hereā€™s been some of my favorite salads. 

A spinach and strawberry and pecan salad. This is the perfect blend of fruits, veggies and some crunch too. 

Strawberry and spinach salad

A steak salad on top a bed of veggies keeps you full and gives you lots of flavor.

A steak salad
A peach and chicken salad

Speaking of fresh vegetables, I have been so inspired and proud of my garden. Although, I have lost some plants, Iā€™m so happy with the ones that have grown and flourished. Iā€™ll be doing a bigger blog post on this later in the season, but seeing seeds turn into bright, red tomatoes is certainly inspiring. 

My baby tomatoes
The fruits of my labor
Four fresh tomatoes

What I Accomplished: August was a busy month. I kicked it off by attending our local National Night Out. 

My boyfriend and I did a day trip to Toronto, you can read about our adventure here. 

The iconic Toronto sign

My boyfriend and I also went blueberry picking for the first time which was so much fun and I made some tasty muffins too!

Our haul
The best way to use blueberries!
Soaking up the end of summer with nighttime concerts.
Summer S’mores!

My family and I took our family vacation to San Diego which was so fun! We packed a lot in and made a ton of memories. It was the best way to spend time together before we all went our separate ways from school to work.

From the palm trees
The hikes and ocean
Enjoying some iconic West Coast food.
The San Diego Zoo
Balboa Park

Goals from Last Month: I accomplished my goal of running my first 5K, you can read about my journey here. 

Finishing my first 5K!

I accomplished almost everything from my summer bucket list. There were a few things that I didnā€™t get done, but I plan to do them in the fall.

The best part of this past month was all the family time. The older I get, the more, I realize how important family time is and how much I try to treasure every moment I have with my family and siblings. This summer has been so special that we have all been home under one roof.

End of summer Lobster rolls!

Goals for Next Month: Even though itā€™s September, I still plan on enjoying the warm weather and soaking up the sunshine. Iā€™m not ready to think about fall yet, but I know I will have to eventually, right now, Iā€™m all about savoring every last bit of summer. I will also be sharing my fall bucket next week!

Enjoying evening walks after work can continue in the fall.

There you have it, another Currently in the books. Tell me, what were some of your favorite parts of August?

Let me know in the comments below! Have a great rest of your week and end of August! See you back here on Friday!

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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!

Ā 

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.Ā 

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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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 itā€™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.

Hereā€™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, itā€™s tie for an updated season bucket list.

Hereā€™s a look at my Summer Bucket List:

-Beach and Pool Day

-Farmerā€™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

Thatā€™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.Ā 

Summer 2023, I am ready for you!

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

I canā€™t wait to see what this summer brings!

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Currently

Currently #32

Hey guys!

Happy Wednesday! As we wind down with another month, Iā€™m sharing what Iā€™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 Iā€™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 Iā€™m Wearing– As summer winds down, Iā€™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 Iā€™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. Iā€™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 didnā€™t know how to top it, well I found it with One Italian Summer. This is one of the hottest books this summer! Iā€™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 (itā€™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 canā€™t wait to watch the series on Amazon Prime.

What Iā€™m Watching: Iā€™ve been spending so much time outdoors, I havenā€™t been watching a lot of movies or shows this summer. I did recently finish Maid on Netflix which follows the true storyĀ  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 itā€™s one that really sticks with you. After hearing a lot about it, Iā€™m glad I got to watch it for myself.Ā 

What Iā€™m Loving: All the times outdoors! From walks to zoo trips, amusement parks, beach days, even just sitting by the pool. Iā€™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. Iā€™ve found that day to day, you donā€™t realize how busy life gets and how itā€™s always go, go, go, until you stop to catch your breath. Iā€™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 tooĀ 

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 doesnā€™t mean the weather gets cold, Iā€™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, Iā€™m looking forward the transition of one season to another. Iā€™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 Iā€™m going to enjoy all the sunshine I can and I hope you will too!

Fun times entertaining this summer!

Enjoy the last few days of August!

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Fabulous living

Summer Bucket List 2022

Hi everyone!

Happy June! I can’t believe we are already into the sixth month of the year and making our way through 2022.

As we embark on a new month and in a few weeks, a new season, I figured it was time for a summer bucket list.Ā 

I love goals and I love to do lists, in order to maximize my time in the summer and have fun, I enjoy creating bucket lists. This bucket list is a mix of free and inexpensive things around my hometown and region of things I want to do this summer. Some can be done multiple times, others are a one and done kind of deal.Ā  If you are on the hunt for fun things to do this summer, feel free to steal an idea or two from the list.

I love to support local spots and community events, so I’m hoping to do that more this summer. I also like to use the summer season as a way to slow down a bit, less appointments and to-dos and more time to rest and go with the flow (one of my goals for my 24th year!)

Sumer Bucket List for 2022

This summer I hope to accomplish as many of these things as possible and do more activities that goes beyond this list.

Here’s a look at my summer bucket list:

  • Heritage Festivals/ Fairs
  • Day trips
  • Zoos
  • Beach Day
  • Pool Day
  • Celebrate Fourth of July
  • Time with family
  • White Turkey
  • Sara’sĀ 
  • See college friends
  • Go Someplace New
  • Meal by the Water
  • Food tour
  • Picnicing
  • Winery/Wine Tasting
  • Happy Hour/ Ice Cream Hour
  • State/National Parks
  • John Russell Brewing
  • Mini Golf
  • Kayaking
  • Amusement Park
  • Outdoor Concert

That’s a look at some things I hope to accomplish this summer. What are some things you are looking forward to this summer? 

Let me know in the comments below!

I hope you have a great rest of your week!

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Currently

Currently #29

Hey guys!

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 Motherā€™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.

Iā€™ve also managed to enjoy some friend time over the past few weeks which was much needed.

What Iā€™m wearing: Iā€™m always on the look for work dresses and clothes. I often stop into stores like Marshallā€™s of TJ Maxx just to see if thereā€™s ever new finds. I lucked out big time during my last time in finding affordable and fashionable clothes. As far as casual clothes, Iā€™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.Ā 

I also got a fresh trim for summer which was much needed!

What Iā€™m reading: I finished Not A Happy Family and wow-what a good book. I couldnā€™t it down. Iā€™m typically not a thriller lover but this was soooo good. A great mix of mystery and thriller and not too scary.

Iā€™m currently reading, Paris is Always a Good Idea and itā€™s the opposite of Not A Happy Family, itā€™s light and fluffy and will make you want to travel. Itā€™s such a good call for summer.

What Iā€™m watching: I started and finished season 5 of Selling Sunset, itā€™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 Iā€™m Loving: ALL the WARM and SPRING weather. Thatā€™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: Iā€™ve been planning a few fun summer plans and excursions and itā€™s making me excited for summer and adventures and more hikes and times with friends and family and maybe even a trip or two. Iā€™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 Motherā€™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 Iā€™m excited for those in the coming weeks.

Goals from Last Month: Iā€™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: Iā€™m looking forward to starting my summer bucket list and enjoying time outside with my family.Ā  I have a graduation and some day trips planned to see friends so Iā€™m looking forward to that. Iā€™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, Iā€™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.

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Currently

Currently #21

Hey hey guys! Happy final week of September! Anyone else feel like we just celebrated Labor Day??

This month feels like a whirlwind, from wrapping up summer fun to starting the fall season. This month was packed full with lots of fun and memories. Hereā€™s a look back on September with Currently.

What Iā€™m up to:Ā Ā Lots of fall walks! I am trying to soak up as much time outside as possible. From walks at the Peninsula, to walks in the woods or just in my backyard.

Finishing summer with summer walks.

I finished summer with a traditional baseball game.

Ending summer at a baseball game.

Iā€™ve also made headway in my fall bucket list! l already went to a pumpkin patch and Iā€™m making headway in some scary stories and fall walks too. Besides work and family time, my hobbies have been keeping me busy.

I already went to a pumpkin patch this year.

What Iā€™m wearing:Ā The weather has made it hard to find outfits this season. Sometimes I can get away with short sleeves, other times, its long sleeves and pants. I have a fall roundup of work clothes coming soon! I am starting to break out my leggings when Iā€™m at home on days off or when I come home from work. I found a great pair from Gap, they are super long lasting and are thick too. I also like that they are high-waisted too!

What Iā€™m reading:Ā I finished reading “The People You Meet on Vacation” and I absolutely loved it! From the characters, the plot and the way it was told. If you havenā€™t read it yet, I highly recommend it!

My little buddy reading with me.

Iā€™m also currently reading “The Silent Patient”. My friend Maddie recommended it to me and I have loved it! Iā€™ve never been a fan of thrillers or dark mysteries but Iā€™m hooked on it. What are some books you are loving?!

What Iā€™m Watching: I finished watching season 2 of Modern Love. I really loved the first season and I thought the second one was good, but I really loved the first one. Based on popularity I started to watch Community. I really love the characters and how its only 30 minute episodes. I also canā€™t wait for my shows to return on tv!! Shows returning in the fall is a big favorite for me!

What Iā€™m Loving: As we are making our way through fall, Iā€™m all about staying in more, less time traveling and more quality time unwinding after work or spending time with family. Iā€™m loving cozy nights in and building time in my schedule for the things I love including reading or shows or even going for walks or coffee with friends. 

I’ve been spending a lot of time baking.
And cooking too!

What Inspires Me:Ā For the longest time I was putting off the start of fall. I wanted to hold onto summer for as long as I could. I enjoyed a boat ride with co-workers and I enjoyed a flower festival with my mom too!

But now that fall is here, Iā€™m embracing it!! From seeing the leaves fall to lighting warm scents and candles to seeing pumpkins and hay and apples in displays in stores and at different farmerā€™s markets.Ā 

Boat rides with co-workers!
And summer flower festivals too!

What I accomplished:Ā As far as accomplishments go, Iā€™ve been keeping busy at work between some projects and just the daily work. Iā€™ve been making time for meaningful time with family too. I got busy in the summer visiting friends, but now that things have quieted down a but Iā€™m liking a quieter lifestyle. I even started finding old hobbies fun again, like word searches. I loved them as a child and I’m found my love for them again!

I feel like a kid again with a word search!

Goals Accomplished from Last MonthĀ I really soaked up the end of summer and the warm weather by going on walks and enjoying some tasty ice cream, say it with me, ice cream makes everything better. Now, that summer is officially behind us, itā€™s full on fall mode.Ā 

Big pumpkins are getting me ready for fall!

Goals for the New Month:Ā Besides working, my goal for the next month is to accomplish as many things as possible on my fall bucket list! I love my lists and I look forward to crossing more things off and making memories.

My Fall Bucket List

Thatā€™s a look into my life this past month, all about the changing of seasons and getting ready for a new season. What are you looking forward this next month? What was a highlight from your past month?

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Currently

Currently #19

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

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

Behind the scene at work

What Iā€™m wearing: I got some new work dresses from Amazon. I canā€™t wait to show you them soon in. post in a few weeks! For days off, I have been wearing lots of shorts and tee shirt sets and of course a few easy throw on dresses. Hereā€™s my past posts on summer looks and vacation looks.

One of my Amazon purchases!

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

What Iā€™m Watching:Ā Before you ask, yes, I am still watching Offspring, butttttt Iā€™m on the final season! So hopefully this is the last time you read about it. But in all seriousness, itā€™s been a wonderful show. Iā€™m so glad it was recommended to me. Itā€™s a great show all about family dynamics and all the things they go through. Itā€™s been a perfect show to watch in the spring and summer. Season 2 of Lupin was so good! I loved the ending. It felt like the first episode. Itā€™s a must watch if you havenā€™t seen it yet. I also am catching up on Virgin River. Itā€™s such a cute and classic Hallmark-y show on Netflix. Itā€™s been such a light summer show. Definitely recommend if you are looking for a summer show.Ā 

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

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

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

Enjoying a summer brunch outside

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

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

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

Goals for the New Month: Enjoy the last month of summer! Luckily, I donā€™t have to go back to school but my siblings will. Itā€™s been so nice to have another summer home with them. I canā€™t wait for more time outside and in the sun and continuing to see family and friends

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

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

Categories
Currently

Currently #7

Hey gang!!Ā Ā Happy Wednesday! I hope you are having a great week. I canā€™t believe we are almost to the end of July! Summer is going by so fast but it has been so good to me. Being outside every day has been the best. Itā€™s time for aĀ currently update.

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

Morning out kayaking

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

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

What Iā€™m Watching: Iā€™m still watching 30 Rock as a do work or get ready for the day. I also just started watching The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. It is soooo good, its fun and light with a bit of drama too. Plus I canā€™t get enough of the set design and the costumes. Itā€™s the perfect summer show. 

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

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

Fresh flowers to start the day

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

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

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

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

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

Categories
Fabulous living

Summer Goals

Hey guys!

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.Ā Ā 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 2019ā€¦you are just beginningā€¦letā€™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 albumĀ 

  • 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

  • Iā€™m really looking forward to celebrating my 21stbirthday this summer. Iā€™m so lucky I get to be home to be with my family, but Iā€™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 itā€™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 wonā€™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 familyĀ 

  • 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 canā€™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. Iā€™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 Iā€™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 doesnā€™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 itā€™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 Iā€™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, Iā€™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. Iā€™m currently finishing up Dawsonā€™s Creek-an oldie but a goodie! Iā€™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. Iā€™m looking forward to enjoying the outdoors more.

Weekly facetime calls with friends

  • Back to the friendsā€¦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 whatā€™s going on. Itā€™s a weird feeling going from seeing your BFFā€™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 recipesĀ 

  • 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 Iā€™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. Iā€™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. 

Have a beautiful week! xoxo