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?!
Well friends, it is the end of the summer. This summer has flown by, I think that has to do with the fact so many things are closed or not what they used to be due to Covid, but I also think due to working full time, summer just feels different. Although, I am sad to see summer go, I am looking forward to the new season. I set 20 goals for the summer and now that Labor Day is over, it’s time to see if I accomplished them all.
Summer Bucket List
Read 20 Books (I’ve read 18 last summer so I want to up my books for this summer)
One of the books I read this summer, book review coming soon
No, this didn’t happen, between working full time and spending any free time with family or friends, I was upset this didn’t happen but I am looking forward to reading more once the weather is cooler and I’m inside more.
Finish 30 Rock (I keep starting it but never finish it)
No, I am making my way through 30 Rock but still have another few seasons, I did start and finish The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, which I absolutely loved! From the costumes to the characters, and them drama and the comedy, it was the perfect summer pick me up.
Be outside for 3-4 days a week (whether its swimming, walking, or running)
Going on walks and cutting fresh flowers were a big part of my summer days
Yes! I spent so much time outside especially on my days off or before or after work. I went on a lot of walks, to parks, the beach and zoos. I loved making it a priority to get outside.
Spend 30 minutes outside a day (Eating, reading, doing work, I want more sunshine)
Yes! Every morning before work I would spend some time outside to read, to work, or just for a walk, I loved getting some sunshine before I spend my day inside. I also liked spending time outside after a long day too.
Go someplace new
Yes! I went on a few day trips which were great for the soul. It was good to get away for a breather and go someplace new, and I got to spend time outside which made it better too.
Catch up with college friends (lots of plans have gotten changed due to Coronavirus, so I’m hoping to start rescheduling things)
Yes! I was able to see friends over the summer, outside and socially distanced, but still it was great to see friends face to face instead of just over a screen.
See high school friends (hoping to make more time for friends near and far)
Yes! I was able to see from high school friends for both breakfast and dinner, it was so great to catch up and see friends in person and not over a screen.
Entertain friends at home (I love entertaining so I’m hoping to have more friends over)
Yes! Although, it was different this year, I was still able to entertain and have people over. It was much more limited this summer due to Covid but having people over made me feel like things were a bit more normal.
Wine Tasting (my friends and I have talked about doing this for ages, hoping we can finally make it happen this summer)
No, this didn’t happen, but we are planning to do it in the fall once it works better with people’s schedules and more things are open.
Beach Day
Yes! It was great to spend some by the water on the beach and with not a care in the world.
Dinner by the water (I love living by the water and having dinner by it is so nice)
I didn’t get dinner by the water but I did get lunch and a walk by the water which was perfect and we had beautiful weather too!
Kayaking (I love being on the water in any form)
Morning out kayaking
Yes! My brother and went kayaking one morning and it was great to be on the water and get some one on one time together.
Working out (I want to keep being consistent with it)
Yes! As soon as gyms reopened I was back in the gym five days a week. I can feel myself get stronger each time I am there which is the best feeling.
Pool Day
Yes! I got a handful of pool days this summer with my family and brothers which made me feel like a kid again.
Bonfire
Bonfire Fun
Yes! We had a bonfire at the beginning of the summer and I loved sitting by the fire with some of my favorite people.
Day Trips
Yes! Whether it was going to see family or friends I got many day trips in which worked out great especially with Covid.
Beach day and a day trip
Really take time to slow down ( I took the time during Coronavirus to slow down and I want to continue to do that)
Yes! On mornings before work I was able to relax and take it easy and on my days off I tried to have one busy day with getting things done and one day that was more laid back and relaxed. I want to try to keep this up in the fall too.
Summer restaurants (I have a few favorite seasonal places that I can’t wait to get back to)
Yes! I was able to hit my favorite spots this summer and introduce my friends to them too which was even more special.
Ice Cream shops
Yes! I ate too much ice cream this summer and hit all of my favorite spots. One day I had ice cream twice!
Take advantage of local spots and free activities
Yes! I got to do a lot of my favorite things this summer that were local, especially in these hard times, it’s always great to support local!
Well there you have it! I am so happy with what I accomplished, from local spots, favorite food places and time outside, I couldn’t have asked for
I can’t believe I am writing my summer 2019 recap. This has been a wonderful and packed full summer. When I moved back home in May, I didn’t know what this summer had in store for me. Yes, I knew there would be work, fun, and friends but other than that, I was open to any opportunity that presented itself. I accomplished a lot these past few months, from working at home, working at school, lots of family time, seeing a lot of friends from high school and college, weekend getaways, and trying new things. Let’s take a look back at my summer to do list and see if I accomplished everything.
Get license renewed
Yes, I got this done the first day I was home and was so happy to get it done.
Work/Internship
Yes, I worked at the same job I have been working at since high school and I got a lot f projects accomplished while I was there. I also volunteered for a Campaign this summer and it was interesting to see all the behind the scenes that goes into it.
Make College photo album
Yes, this was such a fun project and I’m glad I have all my pictures in one spot for the future, plus it was cool to look back on all the memories made.
Celebrate 21
Yes, One of the highlights of my summer was celebrating my birthday with all my friends in Pittsburgh, it was so fun to spend the weekend with my people. You can read all about it here.
Celebrating 21 with my girls
See friends from college and high school
Yes, I made a few trips to Pittsburgh for work or to visit friends and it was so good to connect with friends outside of school. I also managed to hang out a lot with my high school friends whether it was weekend trips or fro yo runs.
High school buds
College besties
Portfolio (BLS)
Yes and No, I am still in the process of completing this project for school but it will be done this semester.
Work Study
Yes, I worked a lot for my school and it was great to be kept up to date on what was going on at school and do something I enjoy.
Read 12-15 books
Yes, this was one of my favorite ways to spend the summer. I read a lot and enjoyed unwinding with a good book. You can read my summer book review here!
One of my favorite ways to enjoy the summer
Download pictures to laptop
Yes, another task I wanted to accomplish and I finished it early on in the summer.
Spend time with family
Yes, I got a lot of family time in between family vacations, good meals, and weekend adventures. There is nothing better than quality family time.
Day Trips
Yes, I got in a few day trips to visit friends and work at school for a few days in the summer, one day trips were perfect to do something fun and get work done.
Start Healthier habits
Yes, this summer I snacked a lot less and tried to get outside as much as I could, whether it was for a walk, jog, or even hitting the gym when I could. I was not as consistent with working out as I am in the school year but still felt good about creating healthier habits. You can read about my summer habits here.
I always love going on hikes in the morning or evening
Go to a concert
No, I didn’t get to a concert in the summer, but I have plans for one in September which I am very excited about.
Beach days
Yes, I made it to the beach with my friend Bailey twice, and then spent an afternoon at the beach which was so fun.
ALL the beach vibes!
Family Vacation
Yes, I finished off summer with a family road trip. So fun and many laughs and memories were made.
Much needed getaway
Find a new show to Binge watch
YES, I was obsessed with Outlander this summer. It was such a good show to watch and I became invested in the show fast, I can’t wait for the new season in 2020!
I am still talking about this show
Take more walks outside
Yes, I took more walks in the summer, whether in the woods, the beach or my own backyard. It was so good to get fresh air after working inside all day.
Not only did I spend more time walking outside but I also tried kayaking and loved it
Weekly facetime calls with friends
Yes and no, I didn’t get in weekly facetime calls but my friends and I stayed close by visiting each other and texting every day, plus you know you have a solid relationship when weeks go by and you can pick up from where you left off.
Try something new
Yes, I did a lot of solo traveling this summer so that was definitely a new and rewarding experience that I was so lucky I got to gain more independence in this area.
Try new recipes
Yes, to see some of my favorite recipes you can find my salads here, pizzas here, and snacks here.
From smores
Pizza
and salad
Entertain Friends/family
Yes, I love to help host and entertain, this summer I did quite a bit from having family, friends, or college friends over, whether it was for dinner, a weekend, or just snacks, it’s a lot of work but it pays off in the end.
I love entertaining from the prep, event and satisfaction of a job well done
Do something spontaneous
Yes, although I don’t have an exact time I was spontaneous, there were many times this summer that I stepped out of my comfort zone to try something new.
Be Present
This was huge for me. This summer, I was more present and intentional with what I was doing. Some of my favorite summer moments there are no pictures of because I was in the moment and not on my phone. This was huge for me.
Focusing on the here and now.
Looking back this was a packed full summer filled with new experiences, memories, work and fun. I have grown by trying new things while being present and spending time with those who matter most to me. Although, the school year will be busy, I know I will always have these memories to look back on. Thank you summer 2019, senior year… here we GO!
Happy Tuesday and an early happy Fourth of July! The Fourth is one of my favorite summer activities. Not only is it a day for seeing family, eating delicious food, and being outside in the sun, but it’s a day to celebrate our country!
This past week has been such a whirlwind filled with so many wonderful moments and memories that I loved making.
Let’s recap!
On Wednesday to Friday my best friend, Bailey, from college came to visit. This was one of the first times a college friend came to visit me, since I live further away from school. During her visit, we did so many things.
Look who’s here!!!
We started the mini vacay with a drive around my hometown and the happy hour by the bay.
Beautiful weather for her visit!
We then headed to the beach to listen to live music at sunset. After the live music we headed to get some ice cream before heading back to my house for a cook out. We relaxed for the rest of the night and caught up.
Sun setting at the beach
We got up bright and early on Thursday morning and headed out for a morning run. It was great to get a workout in, to start the day.
Hello Morning Run!
We then came back to my house and got ready for a day out in the sun. We got lunch at Sara’s, an iconic diner in my hometown.
Introducing her to Sara’s!
We then went kayaking, which was my first time going out, but so much fun!
After spending time on the water, we went to the beach, we tanned, relaxed, went in the water and even took a nap.
ALL the beach vibes!Beach vibes
After spending all day out in the sun, we went back to my house and relaxed. I just started watching Outlander and am obsessed!
We ate dinner and then went out for the night, which was so much fun!
The bay at night
We eased into Friday by going for a hike and then coming back for breakfast before she had to head back to Pittsburgh.
Hiking before she had to head back to Pittsburgh
I am so thankful for our friendship and her visit. It was so good to be a tourist in my own hometown. We are already planning our next adventure! Much love Bailey!
Thanks for a great visit!!!
After she left on Friday, I quickly had to switch gears since I was going away for the weekend with my high school Madeline to visit our friend Ryan in Buffalo!
REUNITED
We left early Saturday morning and made the journey up to Buffalo.
Buffalo bound
Once we arrived in New York, Ryan gave us a tour of Buffalo, from his college, Canisius, to downtown Buffalo and the canal side. It was so nice to get a look into his world.
Checking out his school
We went to the Terrace for lunch, the food was delicious, and the view was even better.
Lunch with my favorite high school palsBeautiful view
After walking around the city, we relaxed until we went out to dinner at Duff’s and had some of their famous wings. They didn’t disappoint. We hung out and played some games before calling it a night.
Did someone say Buffalo Chicken Wings?!
Before, Madeline and I left Buffalo we got brunch at Pano’s, a delicious place that was in downtown Buffalo. It was delicious and so filling.
I love these people
I was so glad to have made the trip to Buffalo and spend some quality time with my high school friends.
Thanks for being some of my best friends!
These past few days have truly reminded me how lucky I am to have such good, fun, and supportive friends. From high school to college, we all get by with a little help from our friends!
I hope your week is off to a great start. It has been so nice to settle into a new routine for the summer months. Every summer I try to set realistic goals for the summer months. They can be anything from activities, projects, trips, and small tasks. I start out with a basic list as summer begins and will add things if necessary as the months go on. At the end of the summer, I love to look back and see everything I accomplished and all the memories I created.
Summer 2019…you are just beginning…let’s take a look and see what my summer goals are:
Get license renewed
-A small but necessary task and I got it done right when I got home!
Work/Internship
Although summer is for relaxing, I plan to work through the summer. I like to stay busy and working through the summer will definitely keep me busy.
Make College photo album
Through my college years, I have been saving photos and organizing them into years. This summer, I want to get them all printed and organized since my time in college is coming to a close.
Celebrate 21
I’m really looking forward to celebrating my 21stbirthday this summer. I’m so lucky I get to be home to be with my family, but I’m looking forward to celebrating this milestone with my friends in Pittsburgh!
See friends from college and high school
Speaking of friends, I am making seeing my friends both from college and high school this summer, whether it’s coffee dates or day trips, friends are so important and I want to make them a priority this summer.
We didn’t even say goodbye at graduation because we knew we would be seeing each other through the summer
Portfolio (BLS)
Another requirement for school that I need to get done before school is back in session for 2019!
Work Study
This summer I will be working remotely for a job I hold back at school. There are a few projects that I will be working on that I am excited to get started on.
Read 12-15 books
I am an avid reader and I am really looking forward to reading a lot over the summer. I already made a stop to my local library to check out a few books to get a start on summer reading.
First book of the summer…
Download pictures to laptop
Again, another task, it won’t take long but I want to make sure I have all my photos from this past year saved to my laptop.
Spend time with family
Since this is my last summer home I want to make sure I soak up as much family time as I can, whether it is family dinners, soccer days, or pool days. I can’t wait to get some quality family time in.
Looking forward to a full summer with the fam!
Day Trips
I love taking day trips, whether it is to the city, in the country, or to see family and friends. I’m hoping to spend a few days going to new places this summer.
Start Healthier habits
I have gotten into good routines while I am at school and I want to continue those routines at home, whether it hitting the gym several days a week, eating healthier foods and meals, or just setting time aside to relax. Getting into a good routine is something I’m looking forward to this summer.
Go to a concert
I have a concert planned for September with one of my best friends, but I want to try and hit up another summer concert. Anyone with suggestions, please let me know.
Beach days
I may live close to the beach, but that doesn’t mean I spend all summer there. Last summer, I went to the beach on the last day I was home. I want to make more of an effort to go to the beach, whether it’s for the sunset, sunrise, or a day in the water.
Family Vacation
I have been reflective in the past few months with everything that has been changing and I’m looking forward to getting away with my family for a summer trip. Where and when that will be is still up in there air, but none the less, I’m looking forward to making some memories.
Find a new show to Binge watch
Every summer, I always am on the look for new shows to binge watch. I’m currently finishing up Dawson’s Creek-an oldie but a goodie! I’m now on the hunt to find a new show to watch this summer. Any good suggestions?
Take more walks outside
In an effort to spend more time outside, I want to take more walks, whether it is at sporting events, at the end of the day after work, or around lunch. I’m looking forward to enjoying the outdoors more.
Weekly facetime calls with friends
Back to the friends…can you tell I miss my college friends?! A few of my friends from school and I have suggested doing weekly facetime calls to keep each other in the loop with what’s going on. It’s a weird feeling going from seeing your BFF’s all the time to going weeks without seeing each other.
You mean I won’t be seeing my friends every day….thank gosh for FaceTime!
Try something new
Leaving this one up in the year. I want to try something new and pushed from my comfort zone. We will see what happens and what I try.
Try new recipes
I love to cook and bake. This summer I want to try some new recipes and even come up with a signature dish. I am into salads right now, so I have a feeling I will be making lots of different salad combinations this summer.
Entertain Friends/family
I love to host people at my home and I learned it all from my mom. In the summer, we love to have friends and family over and I’m looking forward to doing some entertaining this summer.
Do something spontaneous
This goes along with trying something new, even though I love my schedules and routines. I want to be spontaneous and more flexible. I’m hoping to accomplish that this summer.
Be Present
After a stressful and busy semester, I want to be present and just live this summer. There will always be things to do and tasks to accomplish, however, I want to make an effort to just be happy where I am at.
Made this my background for my phone to only focus on the positive things in life
That concludes my summer goals. It may seem like a lot, but overall, I think it is a good mix of realistic and mental goals. Overall, I want this summer to be one filled with happiness, love, laughter, friendship, purpose, and maybe even a dance.
Summer is in full swing. My brothers are finished with school and we are getting into a summer routine. The weather is warm, pool parties and barbecues are underway and (I think) things are starting to slow down. Although, I am working a lot this summer I still want to make sure I have some fun. It may seem a bit late to the game but I made a summer to do list. Some things are specific, others are more hopes but I’m sharing it with you today. Towards the end of summer I will share home much I accomplished. When it comes to summer fun… here’s my list.
Summer List
Complete Internship
Go some place new
Take a trip
Sleep in
See high school friends
See one (or more) college friends
Read SIX book (one more than last summer)
Watch SUITS
Can’t wait to start this new series
Watch Evil Genius
Watch Comedians in Cars getting Coffee
my latest obsession
See Mamma Mia 2
SOOOO Excited to see this movie
See Oceans 8
Another movie I can’t wait to watch
See family and spend time with them
Try something new
Go to the beach
Take more walks
Eat at a food truck
With food trucks becoming more and more popular I need to try some!
Watch the sunset and sunrise
See a concert
Spend more time outside
Go swimming more often
Do more free things (Zoo, parks, festivals)
Trip to Pittsburgh
Breakfast at iHop
Don’t rush as much and be in the moment
Smile more
Be spontaneous
That’s a round up of my dreams and goals for this summer! I may add things as the summer goes on. But I love to make a list of to-do’s to make sure I get everything in and it’s not August and I realize I have two weeks to get everything in.
Do you make up summer bucket lists? If so, what’s one thing on your to -do???
