Happy Friday! I hope you are having a great week and have something fun planned for the weekend. The weather is gorgeous, the days are long and so many memories are being made.
A dinner and walk by the water is always a good idea in the summer.
This summer is going by too fast. I feel like we were just in June and kicking off summer and now July is half way done. I am doing my best to savor the summer days and nights, but my social calendar keeps filling up. It’s all good things and lots of fun activities, but it’s still busy, I’m hoping to create more space in my calendar for rest, we will see how that goes.
As we get ready for another weekend, I’m sharing some of my favorite things from the past week as I link up with Erika and Andrea.
This week’s edition of Friday Favorites is a mix of fashion, food, and summer fun! Let’s dive right in.
New Polka Dotted Shorts– I was browsing through Marshall’s recently and came across these polka-dotted shorts. I love a good pair or solid shorts ( I have the standard white, blue, black and red) and while these did have a bit of a print to them, I decided to try them out. They were a perfect fit, not too loose or tight and not too long or short. The polka dots are subtle and besides wearing them with a navy blue or white blouse or t-shirt, you can match any solid shirt with them. For the Fourth of July, I paired the blue and white shorts with a red shirt and white sandals. I felt patriotic and comfortable. I’m excited to pair these shorts with other tops through the summer.
Texas Caviar Recipe– I saw this recipe for Texas Caviar online and figured a big party like the Fourth of July would be the best place to try it. It went over pretty well. It’s essentially a variety of beans and veggies mixed together with a light dressing. It can be enjoyed by itself or with chips and over tacos too. It was healthy and filling and I know I will be making it again in the future. You can find the recipe here.
Blueberries- Cherries were a favorite a few weeks ago and blueberries are a favorite today. My boyfriend and I went blueberry picking and we got bushels of blueberries. I enjoy eating the berries on their own, with other fruits or in recipes. I have been on the hunt for some new recipes to try and Pinterest is always my go-to when I am looking for inspiration.
Summer Reading– This may seem juvenile, but as a reader and fan of the library, I am participating in our summer reading program. Through our system, you have to keep track of whenever you read 30 minutes and mark it off. You can read books, magazines, articles etc. Once you complete so many minutes, you can turn in your sheet and get a new one to be entered to win different prizes. I love the accountability aspect of it and it really shows how much reading you can do. I love to read in the morning and at night, but have found myself sneaking in more time to read through the day.
Just the Nicest Couple– I finished the book “Just the Nicest Couple” a few weeks ago. I read it on the Libby app through my phone which allows me to read library books wherever I am. I find myself wanting to pick up a book as opposed to scrolling on social media. Now onto the book, “Just the Nicest Couple” is all about a man who goes missing and one of the last people to see him alive is his wife’s best friend. Did she have something to do with it or is she being framed? These two couples who you think may be friends, may not be as close as they seem. There were some great twists, turns and plot points and I really got into the book, so much so I kept finding times to pull out my phone and read more. If you like a good mystery thriller that’s not too scary, this book is for you.
That’s a look into what I’m loving this week, some snacks, books, and clothes. I hope the sun is shining wherever you are and life is good!
Hello all! Happy Friday! I hope you had a great week and are ready for the weekend! I can’t believe we are in back to school mode, this summer truly flew by. Two of my siblings are back in school and the last one goes back this weekend. We had such a good summer and I’m sad to see it go. But in good news, as long as the weather is nice, I can still enjoy plenty of outdoor fun, which is my plan for this weekend. Now, onto some of my favorite things from this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea for another edition of Friday Favorites.
Flower Hair Clips– I am hopping on the trend of big hair clips. I got these big flower clips for my birthday and have been wearing them a lot after a long day at work or on weekends. I love the colors, how they hold all my hair and how they are a cute fashion accessory. These have easily become a fun fashion trend and I am here for it.
The cutest hair accessory!
80 for Brady– When I was traveling with my family for our vacation I got around to watching 80 for Brady for the first time on Amazon Prime and really enjoyed it. Although, unrealistic at certain times, I loved the bond between four older women and their love for Tom Brady. You don’t have to be a football fan to enjoy this film. There were so many funny scenes between the main characters and great one-liners, plus a few tear jerkers too! This is a great movie to get you ready for the football season too!
Such a fun movie!
Face Scrub-Sticking with travel, I tried a new product while on vacation. I got this sugar face scrub from Tree Hut in watermelon citrus water. Besides the refreshing scent, which is perfect for summer, I really enjoyed the fact it was a scrub, I felt like my face was really getting cleaned. This would be a great product to take along for a beach trip or to use if you want to give your face a good cleaning. I’m not sure if I would use it every day, since it was a scrub as opposed to a cleanser, but it was fun to try out on vacation.
Some fun new products to try this summer!
Blueberry Muffins– My boyfriend and I went blueberry picking a few weeks ago and I used some of our blueberries to make muffins. I followed this recipe from Mix and Match Mama. I haven’t done a whole lot of baking this summer, but it was so fun to get back in the kitchen and this recipe was super easy to whip up. I even made a few with chocolate chips. These are perfect for back to school breakfasts or you can enjoy them as a post-dinner treat! My family loved them too! Yum!
The best way to use blueberries!
Better than Fiction- I have been going through books left and right, sometimes you hit a really good streak with books and that’s where I’m at now. I recently finished 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 grandmother’s book store. As she tries to manage this new project, enter a fan-favorite author. He’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. There’s some bumps along the way, but overall, this book will leave you wanting to go on an adventure and support your favorite local bookstore!
Such a fun read, I breezed through it!
And that’s a wrap on another edition of Friday Favorites! Thanks so much for coming along for the ride this Friday and every Friday! I hope you have a fabulous weekend!
I hope you had a great last week of July! I don’t know about you, but I feel like the pressure is on to get everything in these last few weeks of summer before everyone goes back to school or college. This week has been a good mix of work and fun, which is always a win in my book.
We love a good beach day in the summer!
Today’s Friday Favorites is a mix of food, shows, books and some accessories too. As always, I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea to share some of my favorite things from this past week.
Sweet Magnolias– I know it technically came out last week, but I didn’t start watching Sweet Magnolias until this week, hence why it’s included in this week’s favs! I have missed this show and was so happy to have it back. I’ve been enjoying the storylines, the southern charm, the drama and relationships, but most importantly the friendship. This was a fun show to watch at the end of the day or put it on in the background as I’m cleaning, doing laundry or computer work too.
Stir Fry– I have been loving a classic stir fry lately for lunches. Now, you can make it from scratch with fresh veggies, rice, and a protein and meal prep it for the week ahead, but what I have been doing is using what I have already made in my fridge. Take this stir fry for example, I had leftover rice from a dinner, added some chicken from when we grilled it the night before and then shaved leftover corn from corn on the cob for the corn and added in some fresh veggies and soy sauce to complete the dish. It took me less than ten minutes to throw it together and it gave me a few healthy and filling meals. Here’s a few other food options to add to your stir fry: If you enjoy scrambled eggs or have leftover eggs from breakfast add those in, if you like seafood, add in some shrimp for a seafood stir fry or any type of meat, from steak to beef or chicken, you can really add whatever you want for a healthy and resourceful lunch.
A tasty lunch!
Running Sneakers– If you have been following along this year or summer, you may remember that I have gotten into running this year. I have been running with the same pair of sneakers for the past few years and decided since I am more serious about running, I should invest in some running sneakers. I got a pair of New Balance sneakers and have been wearing them as I run. I really like how they provide support to my ankles and feet. I’m glad I got a sneaker upgrade before my race in a few weeks.
My new go-to sneakers
Hummus– Another food favorite! I have been loving hummus this summer. I really got into it when I was on vacation in June and have been enjoying it through the summer. I love enjoying hummus with carrots, celery, peppers, even apples. A few other ways I have enjoyed hummus is with pita, some grilled chicken, even steak, if you are looking for a protein to add. This has been a tasty summer snack.
The Guest List by Lucy Foley– This is not necessarily a beach and summer read, but I really enjoyed The Guest List by Lucy Foley. Without giving too much away, it’s all about a wedding that happens on an island in Ireland. It’s told through the perspective of the different guests at the wedding, leading up to the wedding and the wedding day itself. On the wedding night, an incident happens and the book follows the events that transpires leading up to it and following it. Throughout the book you learn all the different ways the guests are connected and the secretes that lie among them. I really enjoyed the storyline and hearing the perspectives of different characters and the plot. If you like a good “who done it”, you will like this book. The last ten pages were the best!
That’s a look into things I’m loving this week, a mix of books, shows, food, and clothes. Tell me! As we say goodbye to July and hello to August, what has been some of your favorite moments of this past month? Let me know in the comments below! Enjoy your last week of July!
Happy Wednesday! It makes me sad to that we are at the end of July. I feel like June was so well paced and a great introduction to summer and then July came and went in a blink of an eye. There’s always so much anticipation to summer and then it goes by too fast. I know August will be a busy month with end of summer activities and people heading back to school.
Summer is in full bloom!
In good news, I did my best to make the most out of July! From a low key Fourth of July to a concert, seeing friends and some pool days, it was packed full of summer fun in between work. Here’s a look at what I’ve been up to.
What I’m Up To– July started off with the Fourth of July, this year was a bit more lowkey as it fell in the middle of the week and I was working, but my family and I still grilled and enjoyed some Fourth fun and sunshine after work. It’s more about the people and moments than all the extra hustle and bustle.
Our Fourth of July spread
This month, I also made two trips to the Pittsburg area. The first was to catch up with friends for lunch and dinner. Living long distance and being on different work schedules has made it challenging to see some friends so it was great to catch up in person and enjoy some time outside too.
Catching up with friends is always good for the soul
My second trip was to see Ed Sheeran in concert which was so fun. I saw him back during his Divide tour and I was excited to see him perform songs from all his albums.
Ed Sheeran’s tour
I also got to enjoy some live music this summer, our city always does a great job at hosting live music events, and I have gone to a few of them. There’s nothing better than live music by the water.
Live music in the summer, a must for summer!
I also enjoyed lots of time outside, having pool and reading days on my days off. We had a stretch of beautiful weather and I tried to soak up as much time outside as possible.
Reading by the pool days
Summer walks by the water.
What I’m Wearing– Last week, I shared some summer outfits that I have been wearing to work, you can read more about it here.
I also have been into skorts and casual skirts recently too. Here’s been some of my favorite looks.
I have also been wearing shorts and all the graphic t-shirts. They are so easy to throw on for off days especially when I’m outside and just relaxing on days off.
Also, t-shirt dresses are a major win for me in the summer, they are lightweight and easy to throw on after work or heading out and about to run errands, you look put together with minimal effort. A win across the board.
Perfect for a day in the city
What I’m Reading– I had such a good month for reading. This month has been a mixed bag of genres and they have been so fun!
Happy Place- I couldn’t wait to dive into this book. Happy Place tells the story of six friends reuniting in their favorite spot for one last summer trip together and one of the couples pretending they are still together when they have broken up. The personalities of the friends, the description of the setting and the nostalgia had me craving a week at the lake. I read this book on vacation and it was the perfect beach read. If you haven’t read this book yet or any of Emily Henry’s books, you are missing out.
Such a fun, summer read!
My Hygee Home- I got this book for my birthday and it’s all about making a house a home and ways to incorporate Hygee which is a Danish practice into your home. I learned a lot of practical lessons about ways to make your home cozy and useful and purposeful too. It would be a great coffee table book and a great read too. You can easily finish it in one sitting.
28 Summers- 28 Summers by Elin Hilderbrand was such a fun summer read. It’s about a man and woman who meet as young college students and agree to meet up every summer in Nantucket no matter what. Now, let me start out by saying, I don’t believe in cheating or having affairs, but I did enjoy reading about how no matter what was going on in these character’s lives, they always met up every year. I loved seeing how their relationship changed and stayed the same through the years. I also loved reading all about Nantucket and it makes me want to visit even more.
A favorite summer read.
What I’m Watching– Summer is typically a slower time for me for tv shows, but now with streaming services, I feel like there are more options to watch different shows. I’ve done some binge watching, but a lot of these shows have episodes that come out weekly. This summer, I have been watching Outlander, which I have really been enjoying this season, especially the twist with Roger and Brianna. I won’t say more than that to avoid spoilers, but these episodes have been really good.
I also have been watching And Just Like That, every week, again, another light and fun show. In my opinion, season two has had really good episodes and some have fallen flat for me. Overall, I still love the friendships, the fashion and the nostalgia and that’s what draws me in week after week.
As far as binge-watching goes, I have been watching The Summer I Turned Pretty on Amazon Prime. I never read the books, but I watched the first season last summer and thought it was cute and I wanted to see what was in store for season 2. This season has been definitely more dramatic and intense, but it’s still fun to watch. There are moments that are a bit unrealistic, but overall, it’s a fun show to watch at the end of the day.
Lastly, Sweet Magnolias has been my other go-to binge watch. If watching this show doesn’t make you want to move to a small Southern town, I don’t know what does. I love the aspects of southern hospitality, the one-liners and life lessons and most of all the friendships. Such a fun summer show.
What Inspires Me– I have been inspired by my garden that I started at the beginning of this summer. I am finally seeing some progress and some buds. It’s been exciting to see it grow as I tend to it every day.
My garden so far!
My first set of veggies! Peas!
I’ve also been inspired by finding new places to walk and hike. I have my places that I love to go to, but it’s been fun to find new spots and explore new places and get some exercise too.
Plus no summer would be complete without a trip to the zoo!
What I Accomplished– I’ve been doing my best to soak up summer and I think I’ve been doing a good job with it by trying to build in slower days in a busy schedule. I have also been trying to go to as many events that are traditions and free and fun! Plus, I’ve been doing everything I can do to spend time outside, from reading to grilling outside, I have been soaking up all the sun!
I’ve also been enjoying lots of meals outside.
Plus lots of grilling too!
Goals from Last Month– I made the most of summer and actitvites by crossing things off my summer bucket list. From friends, to new adventures and places and visiting old spots, it’s been a packed month. Plus, throw in some family time and you have a great July!
Summer beach days in July!
I’ve also been enjoying trying new recipes! Last week, I made homemade chicken sandwiches! So good!
A mix between a McChicken and Chick Fil A sandwich! Yum!
Goals for Next Month-The time is almost here. I’m crossing something off my 2023 New Year’s Resolutions and Summer Bucket List by running my first 5K. I have been training for it since the spring and all of this summer and I think I’m almost ready. A 5K may not seem like a huge accomplishment, but for someone who has always hated running, the fact I am excited to do this and have enjoyed the hobby is a big deal to me. I’m looking forward to finishing and accomplishing it next month. I’ve been running longer distances and I’m proud of myself for what my body can do.
Next month, I’m also looking to some family time as we take a little getaway and then some final summer adventures.
July flew by, but looking back, I accomplished so much. I know August will be busy with trying to get everything done, but I’m excited to see what the next month brings.
Happy Friday! I hope you had a great week! This week was a busy, between being back to work after some days off, the Fourth of July in the middle of the week and then visiting some friends on days off.
Time spent with friends in the sunshine!
It was packed full but in the best way. Summer is all about making memories and I certainly have done that this week!
Everything is in bloom his time of year!
I’m excited for this weekend for some fun activities too! More on that next week. Anyways, I hope you had a great week and have something fun planned this weekend.
Now, that I have you all caught up on life. Here’s some things I’m loving this week, a lot of these things are things that I loved and used during my family visit to the beach last week. Buckle up, here’s some fun, summer favorites as I link up with Erika and Andrea!
Tennis Dress– I was influenced by Shay Shull for this Amazon tennis dress. While I am not a tennis player, I love how easy this dress is for the summer to throw on for a day of errands or coming out from the beach or pool. It’s easy to throw on, it’s made from Nylon so it’s good for being around water. It comes in so many colors, but I love the light blue. I’ve been into blue this summer and this was the perfect fun outfit to add to my fun clothes wardrobe.
Pearl Hoops– If you remember, I got a pair of gold hoops around Easter and have been wearing them a lot for work. For my birthday, I got a pair of pearl hoops that really elevate your every day outfit. I have worn them with dresses for work, to shorts and blouses. They add some fun, bling compared to pearl studs. They can really dress up a cocktail or work dress. For example, on this day, I wore them with a blue and white polka dotted dress. So fun! They would even be great for a summer wedding!
Such a fun statement pier of jewelry!
Happy Place– I love the author Emily Henry! She has written some of my favorite beach reads from People We Meet on Vacation to Book Lovers and Beach Read. Happy Place may be one of my new favorites! I loved the plot line of six friends reuniting in their favorite spot for one last summer trip together and one of the couples pretending they are still together when they have broken up. The personalities of the friends, the description of the setting and the nostalgia had me craving a week at the lake. I read this book on vacation and it was the perfect beach read. If you haven’t read this book yet or any of Emily’s books, you are missing out and I highly recommend picking up one of them this summer!
Such a fun, summer read!
New Wall Flower scent– I love lemons! From the scent, to the flavor, to any foods. At the beginning of the season, Bath and Body Works unveiled some new scents including a sweet tea and lemonade scent. I loved the concept of the combo, but they are sold out of lotions and soap and candles. However, they still had some wall flower scents and I was able to get one. This is the perfect summer scent. It’s refreshing and not too overpowering. I use it in my bedroom, but I think it would great for a kitchen or a family room. I have tried a lot of different scents but this may be one of my favorites. The best for summer!
Smells like summer!
The Night Agent– I know I talked about this show on my Currently post last week, but I figured it deserved its own spot on Friday Favorites! The Night Agent on Netflix has been such a fun and dramatic show to watch in the summer. There’s mystery and suspense and of course some romance too. There are definitely some intense parts but it’s been a fun show to watch nightly in the summer. Have you found any new shows that you have been loving this summer?
Another summer show!
That’s a look into life lately and what I’m loving! Some fun vacation finds and things I’m loving as we make our way through July!
I hope you have a wonderful weekend!! See you next Wednesday!
I hope you have all had a great week and have something fun and maybe even fall-ish planned for this weekend.
I’m hopping on here to share some of my favorite things from this past week as I link up with I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea!
To start things off, it’s launch day for Simplified planners for the 2023 year. I always love placing my order for my new planner for the upcoming year. Depending on when you read this, I’ve either already placed my order or will be placing it soon. Once I get my shipment in, I’ll be sure to share! If you are looking for a new planner or some accessories, be sure to check out Simplified.
I finished reading this book last week and loved it! It was my first Elin Hilderbrand novel and wow, I’m hooked. I love beach reads in the summer, but when I saw this one had a bit of mystery to it, I was even more intrigued. The book is about a young couple who, alongside their family and friends, are in Nantucket for the weekend to get married. But, on the morning of their wedding, the Maid of Honors is found dead. As you read, you will also find that there’s a lot of secrets in the midst of family members and wedding attendees. How did she end up dead and who wanted her gone? You will have to read to find out.
As I was reading, I also learned that there are plans to make this into a series and I’m so excited to see who they cast for the characters. If you have read this book before, what did you think? Also, let me know what book of Elin’s I should read next!
After the passing of Queen Elizabeth II last week, I have been reading and watching a lot about the late queen. If you have been following my blog for a while, then you may remember that I’m an avid Crown watcher and Royal family fan. In fact, I read two books about the Royal family this summer. I’ve been following a lot of the traditional events that are taking place in the United Kingdom this week, but I’ve also been turning to Royal commentors to learn more too. Author Elizabeth Holmes is my go-to. I follow her on Instagram where she breaks down royal fashion and I get her weekly newsletters too. She even wrote a book on Royal fashion, you can check it out here. If you are looking for more insights or knowledge about the Royal Family, check her out on Instagram
I got dinner with a friend this past week and we got Crumbl cookies for dessert. I’ve heard about these infamous, giant, gourmet cookies and couldn’t wait to try them for myself. Every week, locations puts out six different flavors for customers to choose from. I went with the classic sugar cookie with pink icing and loved it. The cookies are so large and flavorful that it wouldn’t be a bad idea to share them or sample them over a day or two. Although, I don’t have a location near me, I look forward to trying another flavor the next time I stop in for a cookie.
The sweetest treat!
–Disney Plus New Releases
Disney Plus released several trailers for new movies and tv shows that will be out over the next few months. I don’t watch too many shows/movies on Disney Plus but a lot of the trailers that got released were for movies I grew up watching. I’m very excited to see the sequel to Hocus Pocus especially as we get closer to Halloween. After Halloween comes Christmas, which means it’s time for holiday movies like the Santa Clause, I’m intrigued to see how this series following the movies will play out. Last but not least, seeing the sequel to Enchanted come out made me happy. I’ve heard rumors about a sequel but to see it come to life is so fun! I’m curious to see how Disenchanted will play out.
One of my favorite things about all these trailers is that many members of the original casts will be returning, cue the nostalgia.
I started a new show on Netflix. I’ve heard a lot of great reviews about Sweet Magnolias and started it over the weekend. It’s the perfect light-hearted show with hints of drama. I love the music, the friendships and the storylines. After watching the first few episodes, it has me craving a simple life in a quaint town.
That’s just a little recap of some of my favorite things from this week.
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!
Hey guys! I can’t believe we are at the end of summer. This summer flew by! Even though I’m not in school anymore and I can still do things outside into September and even October when the weather is nice, it’s still sad to think summer is winding down.
This month has been extra busy but also lots of fun! Here’s a look into my life lately.
What I’m up to: I’ve been busy making lots of trips to see friends. From dinners, to shopping and lunches, and the weddings. One of my best friend’s got married last weekend, I was one of her bridemaid’s and it was so fun getting to celebrate her these past few weeks and this past weekend. There’s nothing better than celebrating love with people who you’ve known for years. Work has kept me busy too, but I’m in a really good place in life, so I can’t complain!
Work always takes me to different spots. One day it took me to the pool on a hot summer day!
What I’m wearing: I’m trying my best to wear all my summer clothes and dresses before it gets too cold. I have been wearing lots of bold and bright colors. I’ve been also wearing some short sets and blouses on my days off too!
Wearing some bright color at work
What I’m reading: I have been reading a lot! I finished, One Summer in Paris. It follows two women, one from England and one from the United States as they meet while both in Paris for the summer. It’s about friendship, love, the City of Love, finding yourself. I really enjoyed it! I also read the actress and comedian, Retta’s autobiography. It’s about her life journey to where she is today and how she got into acting and comedy. It was a fun and light read. It almost felt as if she was reading it to me. I’m currently working on Tina Turner’s autobiography, Happiness Becomes You, it’s been very informative and have learned a lot about this singer.
What I’m Watching: Ladies and gentlemen, I finished Offspring. I really loved it! It was so fun and light- hearted and the perfect spring/summer show to watch. I definitely recommend it on Netflix. I also blitzed through Outer Banks on Netflix too. It’s a teen drama, but I watched the first season during Covid, so I had to continue it. It was really entertaining!!
Season 2 was soooo good!!!
I’m watching some movies before I start another series or before my fall shows return. I watched The Last Letter from your Lover, it was very good and a great period romantic drama.
A movie win in my book!
What I’m Loving: I’ve been loving lots of time outside, whether it’s a trip to the zoo, and ice cream date or an afternoon by the pool. I’ve also been enjoying lots of summer meals, like salads, salmon, and snacks by the pool too.
A delicious combo of salad and salmon! Yum!
What Inspires Me: I’ve been inspired by being more mindful. I’ve started to do mindful breathing in the morning. Every morning I always do some reading and journaling and prayer but I’ve started to add some breathing exercises, just to be in the right mindset before I start the day. I’ve noticed it has been helping start my day off on the right page.
My mindfulness journey so far
What I accomplished: I’ve gotten to see so many friends and I have loved it. I also loved celebrating one of my closest friend’s big day! I saw some family earlier this month too which was lots of fun! It’s been a busy but a summer filled month! I also got lots of pool days in too!
Even my dog Reese got in on the pool action.
Goals Accomplished from Last Month My goal was to keep enjoying summer and I mostly certainly did that. I’ll have my summer recap coming up soon. I love to see how much I accomplished both on and off my list! Stay tuned for that story coming up!
Fresh flowers are a favorite summer must have of mine!
Goals for the New Month: As much as I hate to admit it, next month will be all about the transition from summer to fall. I’m looking forward to this last few weeks of summer and spending as much time as I can outdoors.
That’s a recap of August, it’s been a busy but fun month. How’s your last full month of summer been?!
Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! If I had to describe this month in one word it would be rain. We had so much rain, when we finally got our first day of sunshine, I couldn’t be happier. I’m all for a rainy day here or there but not for a month of summer. But the good news is we have had plenty of sunny days since then. Here’s a look into my life this past month.
What I’m up to: I’ve been doing a lot of indoor activities and seeing lots of family and friends. I saw family over the Fourth of July which was great. I also went to my high school reunion with some friends that I’m still close with. I also saw some college friends too. It was a busy month, but I was so happy to do so many things and see so many people. I also took on a new role at work, it’s been fun to learn new things!
Behind the scene at work
What I’m wearing: I got some new work dresses from Amazon. I can’t wait to show you them soon in. post in a few weeks! For days off, I have been wearing lots of shorts and tee shirt sets and of course a few easy throw on dresses. Here’s my past posts on summer looks and vacation looks.
One of my Amazon purchases!
What I’m reading: I finished The Bookstore on the Beach. It was definitely a fun and summer read. It was a lot deeper than I thought, there was a lot of challenging issues that were tackled. I really liked how there was a lot about the relationships between mothers and their daughters. Speaking of women, our book club book for this month was called The Secret Lives of the First Ladies. It was a fun historical read. The writing was very modern and light. It almost felt as if you were having conversations with them. I learned a lot about the wives of the men who helped run our country. It also was interesting to see how much these women endured through their lives. I’m currently reading One Summer in Paris, I just started but it’s already looking to be a great read.
What I’m Watching: Before you ask, yes, I am still watching Offspring, butttttt I’m on the final season! So hopefully this is the last time you read about it. But in all seriousness, it’s been a wonderful show. I’m so glad it was recommended to me. It’s a great show all about family dynamics and all the things they go through. It’s been a perfect show to watch in the spring and summer. Season 2 of Lupin was so good! I loved the ending. It felt like the first episode. It’s a must watch if you haven’t seen it yet. I also am catching up on Virgin River. It’s such a cute and classic Hallmark-y show on Netflix. It’s been such a light summer show. Definitely recommend if you are looking for a summer show.
What I’m Loving: I’ve been loving the simple things. With all the rain these past few weeks, I’ve loved taking time to read more, curl up and light a candle or watch movies or tv shows. But when the rain breaks, I love getting out for a walk or just sitting outside. Plus, nothing says summer like some fresh flowers or an ice cream cone! Taking summer adventures have been fun too!
Heading to the Botanical Gardens in Cleveland has been a fun summer adventureAnother shot of the botanical gardens
What Inspires Me: I’m inspired by all the green after the rain. Everything looks so much more alive after a storm. I’ve also been inspired by supporting more local spots for meals and treats. It’s been so nice to see the community out and about more this summer and enjoying food at home!
Enjoying a summer brunch outside
What I accomplished: I’ve loved being able to see so many friends and family this past month. That has been a huge accomplishment. I’ve also gotten adjusted to my new routine and schedule which has made life much easier.
Goals Accomplished from Last Month I got to celebrate the Fourth of July after work with family and friends. From yummy food, to fireworks, and seeing people. It was one of my favorite days of the year. I’m also getting lots of things done on my summer to do list.
Fireworks on the FourthMy little pup getting in the Independence Day spirit!
Goals for the New Month: Enjoy the last month of summer! Luckily, I don’t have to go back to school but my siblings will. It’s been so nice to have another summer home with them. I can’t wait for more time outside and in the sun and continuing to see family and friends
A tasty meal outside supporting a local spot is my idea of a perfect time!
That’s a look into my life this month. What things have you been doing this past month. Let me know!
Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! We are officially in June! I had the best time celebrating my birthday last weekend. In between work, I was able to go out for dinner, see family, open presents and celebrate with friends too! It was the best way to celebrate 23!
I always view Memorial Day as the official start to summer, now that we are passed that I can share my official summer bucket list! I have shared them every summer since I started my blog and I love to use my list as a way to hold me accountable and be intentional with my summer plans. Here’s my summer bucket list for 2021. I’ve already started to do somethings this summer which I was super excited about.
My summer bucket list that hangs on my wall
-Seawolves Baseball Game
-Start a new show
-Summer reading
-Travel someplace new
-Best friend’s wedding shower
-Best friend’s wedding
-See college friends
I already saw my bestie Danielle!
-See high school friends
-Ice cream nights
-Dinner by water
-Play putt putt
-Beach day
Grilling on the beach was a favorite of mine!
-Zoo
-Family trip
-Pittsburgh Trip
-See family
-White Turkey
A summer must-have
-Sara’s
After a walk at Presque Isle, ice cream was a must!
-Niagara Falls
-Grill nights
-Entertain friends
-Winery or Brewery
-Celebrate 23
-Summer festivals
-Pool days
-Summer Hikes
Hiking at the PeninsulaHikes at Geneva State Park
I know more things will come up this summer but here are my top things that I want to accomplish this summer. What are some things that are on your summer bucket list?!
