Hey guys! I know we are only halfway through June but I have spent a lot of time outside and going on some adventures near and far. The weather has been beautiful and I have been taking full advantage.
One of my goals for this summer was to be outside more and I’m definitely accomplishing that.
I wanted to share some of my favorite spots so far. If you are looking for walking destinations or hiking spots this could be a helpful guide for you. If you have some favorite spots to walk or hike, drop them below. I’m always looking for new places.
Here’s a recap of some of my favorite adventures so far…
Geneva State Park in Geneva, Ohio is beautiful. I love the dirt and paved trails. There’s also beaches near by which is perfect for a day long adventure. I travelled there in May and had the best time…just make sure you stay hydrated. This was one of the creeks I found on the hike, it was a perfect tucked away spot. Sticking closer to home. There’s a few paved walkways down by the Bayfront in Downtown Erie. I love this view overlooking the Bay and there’s a number of downtown spots for a coffee or meal too!I love the paved trails at Presque Isle, but I also love some of the dirt one by the wetlands. They are definitely hidden gems in an already beautiful spot.Another little trail that leads to water at Presque Isle. I love how the land meets the water here!And after all the hiking and walking, there’s nothing better than a hot dog and an ice cream on the beach…yum!Summer is just gettin started by I’m already enjoying some summer bonfires. It’s the perfect way to end the night.
My summer has been off to a great start so far and the best part is the season just officially kicked off! I’ll be sharing all my summer bucket list items on an Instagram story so make sure you are following along.
Where are your favorite places to head outside to???
It’s been a while since I’ve done a fashion post. BecauseI have to dress up every day for work, I do a lot of shopping in the store, but I also shop my closet a lot too. I love to mix and match outfits and looks for different functions, events and looks.
Here’s a few looks that I’m loving right now.
Look number 1
I wear a lot of black. In the fall and winter I have black dresses, tops, pants and skirts. It’s an easy, go-to, color that looks slimming and it’s also super versatile. You can dress it up or down depending on what you are feeling. Even though black is worn more in the winter months, it can be also worn on occasion n the summer which brings me to my look today.
A silk black blouse with black dress pants and a pair of pumps. I’ve had all these pieces in my closet and paired them all together for an outfit for work. The sleeveless blouse is perfect for summer. I got the blouse from Marshalls last summer. The black trousers are great for on the go and busy days, I got mine from Talbots. I chose the pump because they are versatile in all seasons. I’ve had these shoes for years. They are by Kelly and Katie and I got them from DSW. You can wear them with black tights in the winter or with black pants in the summer on those breezy days.
Look number 2
Another classic look is a summer dress. I wear a lot of dresses to work, and I love looks that are bold and bright. This dress was one I picked up late last season and I couldn’t wait to wear it this summer. I love the classic colors of pink, blue, and white. They are softer colors but also speak volumes. It’s a lightweight dress but has the formal feel to it. I got this dress from Ross Dress for Less last year. It’s a hit or miss for Ross for me, sometimes, I find great dresses, other times, I leave empty handed. My best advice is to always keep checking back. I wore this dress with a pair of blue pumps, but you can easily wear a flats, loafers or even sandals to change the look of the outfit. I would suggest wearing a navy blue or white shoe. This would be great to wear for work, a semi-formal occasion or a dinner.
Look number 3
My third and final look is a bright dress that screams summer fun. Once again, I got it late last season and couldn’t wait to wear it in the summer. Besides the bright color and the feel of the dress, the neckline is a favorite of mine. I also got this dress from Marshalls last year and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it! I think it stands out without being too bold. I wore this dress with a pair of white pumps but you can easily wear sandals or a kitten heel for a different style.
These are three looks that I’m loving this summer. I got them from a variety of affordable places that carry name brand items. These are all more dressed up looks for the summer months. I will have a roundup of casual outfits coming up soon. Until then, what looks are you loving this summer? Let me know below!
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
Hi everyone! Can you believe we are already to the end of August?! Where has this summer gone? In some ways this summer has flown by and I have gotten to fit a lot in whether it is family time, friend time, lots of walks and time outside. But at the same time, I haven’t been able to do a lot of things with coronavirus which has made this a very different summer. Overall, I have many memories from these past few months and I can’t wait to share them soon. As one month ends, it’s time for another currently update! Here’s a look into the past month.
What I’m up to: This month has been about all the lasts before school is back in session for my brothers, although I won’t be heading back into the classroom, it definitely feels like summer is winding down and it’s time to get all the last minute things done like ice cream nights, day trips, barbecues and late nights. I’m trying to spend as much time outside as I can before it’s back inside for fall and winter.
What I’m wearing: I have been trying to wear all the bright colors before summer is over, hello yellows and blues and pinks and greens. Also, since I have been upping my workout routine I got some new gym clothes and that has given me even more motivation to work harder in the gym.
A snap shot from work but just an example of a bright color I am wearing
What I’m reading: My reading goal for this summer will not be met. I have read some really goo books this summer but haven’t been disciplined at just reading. I am hoping with colder weather coming I will be more inclined to curl up with a book on my days off. My summer book review is coming soon!!
What I’m Watching: I’m still watching 30 Rock as a do work or get ready for the day. It is one of my summer goals to finish it but we will see if I can make that happen. I am almost done watching The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. It has been a great thing to watch at the end of the day, it’s funny, it’s serious, it’s something light and a great summer show to watch before my fall shows hopefully come back soon…
What I’m Loving: I have been loving working out, I started going to a gym when I started my job back in the winter and I loved going, then coronavirus hit. Now, I have been back in the gym, five days a week since they reopened at the end of June and I am loving it. I can feel myself get stringer each time and it’s the best way to start my day.
What Inspires Me: I have been inspired by all things fresh and clean. There is nothing better than having a clean desk at the end of the day or marking everything off your to do list. I also have been inspired to be more intentional with my time. I am good with the big things like working out or catching up with family or friends on the phone but when it comes to the little things I’m not so good with it. For example, I don’t have time to read a book but I can scroll on facebook for an hour…I am inspired to work harder with my time.
What I accomplished: I have accomplished a lot of summer bucket list items and getting a lot of one on one time with family and friends. On my days off I love to spend some extra time with my younger brothers before they head back to school. I also try to do bi-weekly facetime calls with friends besides texting daily. There is nothing better than seeing some friends virtually and really devoting time to family and friends one on one.
Goals Accomplished from Last Month: I have done a really good at feeling productive especially on my days off or before I go to work. I always have a daily to do list of both work and fun and I love checking things off of it. I also got a lot of time outside which was awesome and I checked even more things off my bucket list for the summer.
Cutting fresh flowers and being outside is something I will miss about summer
Goals for the New Month: I want to be able to spend the last few weeks of summer outside as much as I can especially when it comes to grilling and swimming and just being outside. I also want to get more reading in, I feel like I have been doing great with balancing, work, family, relaxing, gym, tv etc. But if I can get a little bit more reading in I would love it.
That’s just a look into this past month, checking things off the to do list while also making lots of summer memories. For example, I had ice cream twice in one day because why not its summer?! Here’s to enjoying the last few weeks of it. What are you looking forward to getting done in the next few weeks?!
Happy Wednesday! I was off of work for a few days which was a great change of pace, and I really disconnected, it was great to relax, see family, and recharge. The only downside is that I ran behind on some blog work, so my life update post won’t be coming until next week, it will be worth the wait. In the meantime, I figured it was time for a “Currently” post and give you a look into life today.
What I’m up to: Summer is in full swing, I have been trying to get outside every day for a bit whether it’s for a walk, reading, or relaxing. I’ve been trying to soak up summer between work. I’ve been loving keeping the family summer traditions alive while working.
What I’m wearing: Give me all the dresses!!! Now that more places are opening up, I’ve been doing some more shopping. Marshalls and T.J. Maxx were great places to start looking. If you need some inspiration about work clothes, you can check out my blog post from last week, here!
What I’m reading: I’ve been adding some new books to my reading list, I’m finishing up a book on interior design and I just started a fiction book called, The Paris Seamstress, a full book review is coming soon but it’s all about a Paris seamstress trying to make a name for herself during World War II, she must go through trials and tribulations to take care of herself while also following her dream. I’m halfway through it and loving it.
What I’m Watching: I’m making my way through 30 Rock and it has been such a fun and light show to watch to have in the background or watch with little time. I also got hooked on Selling Sunset on Netflix, not only are the house gorgeous, but who doesn’t love a little reality tv, there’s drama, there’s laughs, and there’s gorgeous homes. It’s been something fun to break up the days.
What I’m Loving: I’m loving the summer weather and sunshine. One of my summer goals was to get outside 3-4 days a week and I have been doing really well with it so far. Being outside has boosted my mood and breaks up the work or home days.
What Inspires Me: I have really been on a role of being present, I’ve been inspired by the little things in life, like burning a candle while I work, having more windows open, taking time to read every day. These little moments bring me so much joy.
What I accomplished: I’ve been really happy with how I have been keeping up with friends, whether it’s through weekly facetime calls, going out to eat, or going on walks, making those relationships a pritority have been so helpful and really adds to the balance or work, family and friends.
Goals Accomplished from Last Month: I have done a really good job at finding a great balance for this season of life, being productive, while also relaxing, spending time with family and outside. I often feel that we are pulled in so many directions or have different expectations placed on us whether its work, family, fitness, being healthy, taking time for ourselves, I love being organized so having a to do list every day helps me accomplish my goals while also have that balance.
Goals for the New Month: I can’t wait for more things to reopen, I’m getting a long overdue haircut next week…I have never been so excited to get an appointment, also, gyms are getting reopened. I have tried to stay active at home, but there is nothing like being back in the gym. I can’t wait to get back.
These past few months have been filled with so many unknowns, but in any situation, I always look for the silver linings, so even when the world stopped and got turned upside down, I still wanted to find the good in it. I’ve learned a lot about myself during these past few weeks and months.
One of the things that have really helped me every day is to simply put things in perspective and maintain a grateful and positive attitude through it all, yes, days were hard and challenging, but taking it one day at a time, helped me so much. Another things that has helped me as been journaling, not just daily but also a separate journal about life and working through a pandemic, I remember what I’m feeling every day, but years from now, will I? Keeping all my notes and feelings in one spot hase been so helpful too!
I was lucky enough to work through the pandemic, although days were filled with uncertainty, I was so fortunate to still be able to work. Another thing I was super grateful for was the fact I was with my family the entire time, I got bonus time with my parents and siblings as they worked and learned from home. I was able to see them before and after work, have quality time to be together that I may not have gotten in the past. Another positive in a dark situation.
What really stands out to me during the pandemic, was the importance of truly slowing down. During college, especially during my senior year, I felt spread too thin and overwhelmed with commitments, I have gotten into a much better routine since working but this pandemic, truly showed me that you don’t have to have a full schedule every single day and this is something I want to adapt in my life more this summer. Yes, more things are reopening and we are entering into a new normal but I want to still continue with slower days when I can. At the beginning of this year, I read, When Less Becomes More by Emily Ley, you can read the review here. One of the biggest takeaways from the book was living a slower and more meaningful life and the joy and beauty in the simple things. I have truly found the beauty in the simple things and the importance of taking it slow. I have also learned to not take things for granted, like just going into a store to browse, you can’t do that anymore. I also found you don’t have to be busy all the time or doing things all the time to be happy and enjoy life.
Taking it one day at a time and realizing that sometimes, the simple things in life are better.
What have your learned about yourself through the pandemic? How has your outlook on life changed?
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!
Well, It’s been a almost a week since I have been home for summer and it is already flying by. I am very excited about today’s look of the day! I am going to try something different for today. I always talk about the importance of re-wearing an outfit in a different style or fashion to show you don’t have to be constantly buying new clothes. Last fall, I shared this outfit, a t-shirt dress with a fall spin on it with a scarf, boot socks, and short brown boots. Today, I’m going to show the same outfit, but this time with a spring/summer spin on it.
Remember this outfit from last spring?!
I got this mustard yellow t-shirt dress from Gap last fall. I loved not only the color but how lightweight it is. This makes it so much easier when it comes to layering. This dress is the summer and fall, last fall I added more darker colors to it, this time I’m wearing it, I’m adding lighter colors to it. Another great transitional piece of clothing.
Same dress, different look
I also got this scarf from Gap. I love the small flowers and I also love how it matches the dress perfectly. This scarf can be worn in many different styles, in addition to the scarf, I added a light denim jacket to my look. Just in case it got chilly or I wanted to layer my outfit. The jean jacket I am accessorizing this outfit with is from Old Navy.
Up close of the dress and accessories
I opted for a pair of brown peep toe boots for the outfit. I grabbed these cute shoes from T.J. Maxx a few years back and they are such a good shoe for transitional weather. The weather is finally warm enough to wear spring/summer clothing I am here for it. I got a tease of this warm weather at school but now, I am ready to wear it all the time.
Who doesn’t love a mirror selfie?!
Thoughts on the outfit? Would you be more interested in seeing content/outfits like this? Let me know in the comments below! Have a beautiful weekend!
Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE summer but once September hits, I can’t wait for fall. The only problem with that is even though it’s September, it’s still super warm where I live. Although, I want to break out all the flannels, jeans, and boots, its still 80 degrees outside. Haha! Therefore, I am still wearing shorts, t-shirts and summer styles of clothing for the next few weeks but don’t worry-my white is put away until next year. Haha!
With that being said, here is what I am wearing today.
Getting in all the summer outfits
I got this fun silk-like blouse from Old Navy a few years ago and I love to wear it with shorts (black or white), capris, or even a pair of jeans in cooler weather.
Since it reached mid-80’s today, I decided to wear a pair of black shorts from Old Navy with it. I chose black to darken the outfit a bit since we are getting closer to fall weather and moving away from summer weather.
There was a bit of a chill this morning, so I wore this fuchsia sweater over this spaghetti strap top. The pink sweater also brought out the pink accents in my top. Don’t be surprised but I also got this sweater from Old Navy...shocker right?! Haha!
To continue to transition this outfit to fall, I decided to wear these fun dressy sneakers with my outfit rather than a pair of sandals. I got mine for sale at Target.
Although the weather is still so nice, and I am trying to enjoy it as much as I can, I still try to try to transition my wardrobe. I transition in simple ways like by wearing darker colors, closed toe shoes, or adding sweaters or long sleeves or pants to my wardrobe.
I can’t wait for fall to be in full swing.
When do you start to transition your wardrobe from season to season?
