Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #66

LOTD

Hi Everyone!

Well, I am back to school and work. It has been a busy week, but I got a chance to snap some pictures of the latest outfit I am wearing. This is another fun outfit for shopping, relaxing, running errands or catching up with friends.

This would not be an outfit for the office but instead heading to class. Even though I have gotten older and have spent more time transitioning to business attire, I still love to have some fun outfits to hang out in.

Let’s break down the outfit details.

Sun’s out for the last few days of summer

We will start with the top, yes, I have no shame admitting that I am a fan of Keeping up with the Kardashians. It’s definitely a guilt pleasure for me. Who doesn’t love to watch family drama go down? Haha! A few years back I visited one of the Kardashian’s stores, DASH,  in New York City and I got this shirt. I don’t wear it often, but when I do I like to dress it up with some outfits. Rather than just have a plain black t-shirt, dress it up with something fun!

I have had these shorts for the longest time. I honestly don’t remember where I got them from, sorry! Once again, I don’t wear them often since they are a bright color, but when I do it’s typically when I am out and about running errands or doing something fun.

My shoes are my favorite part of the outfit. I got them from DSW and I absolutely love them. Not only is the concept super cool but they really can change a look. I have worn them with shorts mostly, but I haven’t tried them with a dress, stay tuned to see if it works!

Lastly, I had to touch on my sunglasses. I have a few different styles of sunglasses, but the aviators worked great with the look I was going for.

I hope you enjoyed a peak into what I am wearing this week! What are your weekend plans?

Categories
Fabulous living

Summer Recap

Well at the beginning of the summer I shared my summer bucket list and today I’m sharing everything I got accomplished! Let’s see how we did…

Summer List

–              Complete Internship-YES

I had a great summer internship experience, you can read all about it here

Practicing my reporting

–              Go some place new-YES

I went to Taylor Swift’s concert so that counts as something new, right!?

…Are you Ready for It?

–              Take a trip-YES

My family and a took a getaway to one of our favorite places, it was so nice to get away and unwind.

Getting away for a bit

–              Sleep in-YES

I was able to snag a few days to sleep in and take it easy during the weekend and a few week days when I was off of work.

–              See high school friends-YES

It was so good to see many friends from high school, we picked up where we left off-love them!

Fourth of July spent with my favorites

–              See one (or more) college friends-YES

I’m really proud that I pulled this off, I saw FOUR friends from high school. All my friends live at least 2 hours or more away so I was so happy I was able to see them

Much needed retail therapy

–              Read SIX book (one more than last summer)-YES

I really outdid myself with reading this summer. I’ll be posting a book review soon so you can see how many I read.

–              Watch SUITS-NO

I got through most of it this summer but still have a few more episodes to go. I really enjoyed this series. You can check it out on USA or Amazon Prime.

 

–              Watch Evil Genius-YES

I binged watched this while I was traveling and it was so good. I would recommend it for sure, plus who doesn’t like to watch a documentary about something that happened 5 minutes from their house…true story

–              Watch Comedians in Cars getting Coffee-YES

I watched one episode (episodes are only 20 minutes) every morning while getting ready for work. It was something super light and easy to watch.

my latest obsession

–              See Mamma Mia 2-YES

I loved this movie, I have been listening to the soundtrack nonstop. It was definitely a favorite movie for me.

such a good movie

–              See Oceans 8-YES

Loved this movie, it was so well done and the cast couldn’t have been better, girl power all the way.

Another movie I loved

–              See family and spend time with them-YES

I was so happy I was able to see both sides of my family, from grandparents, cousin’s and aunts and uncles. Family over everything!

–              Try something new-YES

Doing my internship counts right?!

–              Go to the beach-YES

I went a few times to cover stories for my internship, but I also went to watch the sunset.

Watching the sunset

–              Take more walks-YES

I did better at the beginning of summer, but I can’t wait to be back in the gym once school starts back

–              Eat at a food truck-YES

One of my best friends and I grabbed lunch one day downtown. It was delicious and a fun way to catch up.

Grabbing lunch with my girl downtown

–              Watch the sunset and sunrise-YES

My family and I went to the beach to watch the sunset and I had  a few early mornings where I watched the sun rise.

Watching the sunset

–              See a concert-YES

I saw both the Piano Guys and Taylor Swift. Both incredible shows. I absolutely loved them

.

We had great seats to see her perform on one of the smaller stages

–              Spend more time outside-YES

Whether it was swimming, tanning, reading or working, I spent a lot of time outside.

Soaking up the sun

–              Go swimming more often-YES

I wanted to go in more but I got in the pool more than last summer so that counts.

–              Do more free things (Zoo, parks, festivals)-YES

I did but I could have done better, hey I had a busy summer, I did make it to the zoo, beach, and relaxed so that counts

–              Trip to Pittsburgh-YES

I went a few times for some sightseeing, zoo, a concert. I did very well in this department

City lights at Night

–              Breakfast at iHop-YES

It was more of a brunch but I got my fill of iHOP.

–              Don’t rush as much and be in the moment-YES/.NO

I wished I slowed down more but sadly I was often on the go. Always more things to work on

–              Smile more-YES

This was the summer of me! I had such a good summer and smiled a lot.

MY MOOD THIS WHOLE SUMMER

–              Be spontaneous-YES

I was spontaneous but there is always room for improvement.

I truly had a wonderful summer. I lived a lot, learned a lot and really took care of myself and had some fun. Summer 2018 you were so good to me! Fall Semester, let’s get to work!

Categories
Fabulous living

Slowing Down and Having Fun

Hello All!

Just a short post for you today, with summer wrapping up in a few days, I’m doing my best to relax and slow down and just enjoy summer. Between finishing work, packing for school, and buying new supplies, I have been trying to find moments to soak up being at home and embracing the summer days.

How have I been accomplishing this? I have been getting a lot of things on my bucket list done which I will be showing you all soon. I’ve also done some fun activities.

I have gone to the beach to watch the sunset which my family. I love going to the beach even though I don’t get there enough. The sunset is so beautiful to just stop and be in the moment.

Watching the sunset

I have also gone to a few concerts. I went to see The Piano Guys a few weeks back. I have been a fan for 6 years and I was so happy to see them in concert. It was a phenomenal performance. If you have heard of them be sure to check them out on Youtube!

The Piano Guys
Such a good show
Check them out on Youtube

I also went to see Taylor Swift in concert, it was my first time seeing her which I was very excited about. The show was phenomenal! It wasn’t just a concert but rather a spectacular show and experience. I went with some friends and we had the best time singing, dancing, and making memories. It was such an amazing experience.

…Are you Ready for It?
What a showstopping performance
We had great seats to see her perform on one of the smaller stages
TAYLOR!!!
What a way to end the night

Lastly, I’ve been trying to spend as much time outside as possible, whether it has been reading by the pool, swimming, eating dinner outside or just taking walks. I am trying to get as much sun as possible.

Soaking up the sun

That’s an update about what I’ve been up to these last few days of summer before it’s back to the books and work. Enjoy these last few weeks of summer and spend as much time with your friends and family as you can!

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #64

LOTD

Hi friends! Happy Thursday!

Today’s outfit is another one that I mixed and matched together based on clothes I already had in my closet. I love putting new outfits together whether they are for working in the office, going out with friends, or just running errands and relaxing.

Soaking up the last few days of summer

Before, I get down to the details of my outfit, I want to give a shout out to my cousin Grace for these great pictures. She is so talented with her photography and I love when we are able to work together with taking pictures.  I saw family a few weeks ago (one of my bucket list items complete) and she was able to take some great shots for me for my blog.  Be sure to keep your eyes open for some new pictures coming soon.

A fun summer’s day outfit

Now, onto the outfit details. I was running errands when I wore this cute number and it was a perfect play clothes outfit. I got this t-shirt from Old Navy a few years ago, I don’t wear it too much since it is very casual but when I am just relaxing it’s a quick top to throw on and I love the deep blue color.

These shorts are my favorite part of the outfit, most of the time my top is the statement piece but today it is my shorts. I also got these shorts from Old Navy a few years back too. I love the paint like design on the shorts and how fun they are too.  In all honesty, I haven’t bought shorts in a while due to the fact, I am working a lot now and I don’t dress down a lot, but whenever I need a pair of shorts, Gap or Old Navy are my go-to’s!

Just in case it is chilly, I always have a sweater with me. This long blue sweater always does the trick, it is light enough to protect me frim the sun but also heavy enough for keep me warm from a light summer breeze.

Up close view of the sweater and top

Lastly, I am wearing my favorite summer sandals from Kelly and Katie at DSW. I love the natural color of them not to mention they provide support for a lot of walking and they look cute. All good things in my book.

That completes this carefree summer outfit. The days of summer are winding down for me as I will be heading back to school soon. Now, get off the computer and have some fun outside. Have a great weekend!

Categories
Fabulous living

Summer Internship

Hi All!

I hope you had a great weekend. I just got back from a packed full summer vacation. It was great to be off the radar for a while, but now it’s back to business and school mode is in full effect!

Today I am sharing what I’ve been up to this summer. As you know, I have pretty busy working between my internship and summer job. I couldn’t have asked for a better summer internship. I interned at one of my local news stations. As a communication major, there are so many areas to work in. For several years, i have had an interest in journalism and the news. As my graduation gets closer and closer I thought it would be a good idea see if working in the media is something I would want to dedicate my career to.

View from the control room, watching the magic happen

Last January, I spent a day shadowing the news station and loved it. I learned about internship opportunities and by the middle of January I had my summer internship lined up.

Flash forward to May, I was home for less than 48 hours and I was already starting my internship. I worked two days a week from 9:30-5:30. I was able to set my own schedule. I loved going to my internship every day and learned so much.

Practicing my reporting

There is no set “day in the life” as a reporter. Every day is different and new things are constantly going on.  When you walk in, you get assigned a story and by 5:00 that night when the news airs, the story is done. There is always a deadline to meet. Most reporters told me they want the days to go by slower not faster. That’s one of the things I liked so much about my internship. Through the two months i was there, i learned about reporting, producing, editing, and anchoring.

Practicing my anchoring

My internship included shadowing different reporters every day, conducting a few interviews, watching that editing of news packages get done, and  my favorite part, writing and editing my own stories. I even got to practice  anchoring too. I worked with producers putting in commands for the rundown, I got to help write stories with reporters. When it came to editing, a few of the photographers let me help edit the news packages, and then the anchors gave me tips on how on how to anchor best.

Covering a stand off, after doing a story on beach erosion, every day is truly different

This was a hands in experience, I got to help cover several different types of stories, from a stand-off with the Police, a murder, the mayor’s weekly news conferences, a political figure’s death, beach erosion, a cancelled concert, and the death of an inmate on work release. These were just a few of my favorite ones. I got to meet so many people from different walks of life and I learned so much about the city I have called home for the last 20 years.

Getting behind the camera

After completing my time at the news station, i am certain that this is the field I want to go in after graduating. It would be even more special if I could come back home and work for the same news station.

Getting in front of the camera too

I couldn’t have asked for a better summer or experience. I learned so much and i loved going to work every day to see what it’s really like being a news reporter. Hopefully, you can see me on air one day and just not online. Haha!!!
Happy Tuesday!

Categories
Fabulous living

Making Time for Friends in the Summer

Summer can be a very busy time, between work, getting enough sleep, and getting used to a new routine, it can be hard to see those close to you.

I am very fortunate that I live at home in the summer. I love spending time and doing things with my family. We always try to eat dinner together every night, and we spend our weekends and weeknights doing things together. I love spending time with my family.

However, I often find myself not spending a lot of time with my friends. I live about two hours from most of my friends from college, so I don’t often see them, luckily, I am still close to a few friends from high school who I try to see frequently. Most of the times our work schedules don’t line up, we have other commitments going on or we live far apart. I have been very good about trying to see friends in the summer, which I am proud of. Here are a few things I’ve learned about making time to see your friends in the summer.

  • Don’t just say it, Do It!

When school is winding down, you may catch yourself saying, “we have to see each other this summer!”, but does it happen? We often get caught up in our busy lives that we forget about others. If you truly want to see someone, make it happen. Due to my friends from college living so far away, I know I’m not going to see all of them, but maybe I can try seeing one or two.  A few weeks ago, I was in need of some girl time with one of my close friends from college, Olivia. We both found a day we were free and met up to get lunch and go shopping. Rather than me driving two hours to her or vice versa. We met halfway for both of us. It worked out perfectly. We got to visit, grab lunch, scored some sales, but most importantly, just catch up. I’m so glad we did something rather than just saying we were and not follow through.

Much needed retail therapy
  • A few hours is better than nothing

I have a few close friends from high school who I try to see often in the summer and on breaks. However, we all work different times and schedules, so it can be hard for all of us to get together for a long time. We find it works best for us to just grab dinner, ice cream or brunch for a few hours rather than try to find a full day to spend together. We try to also get together for big events. For example, my family and I throw a fourth July party and my close friends are always invited. It’s a great time to see each other and celebrate.

Fourth of July spent with my favorites
  • Be Spontaneous

Yes, it’s great to plan ahead when you are seeing someone from out of town, but also be spontaneous with your outings. My close friend and I both work downtown in the summer. We both had the same lunch break and met up for lunch downtown. It was unexpected and yet, so fun. My other friend was free for dinner so him and I just went to grab something quick. Even if you can’t get your whole group of friends together, it is good just to catch up with one rather than none.

Grabbing lunch with my girl downtown
Grabbing dinner with my high school bud

I think most college students can relate to not seeing their friends or family as much as they want in the summer. What do you struggle with? Spending more time at home with family or out with friends? Let’s Discuss!!

Categories
Fabulous living Travel

TBB Asks: Summer Vacations

Hello! Hello! A new week, a new day.

I can’t believe we are almost halfway through summer! The months are flying by!! I love finding questionnaires from other bloggers and I love to answer them myself. Today I will be answering questions about summer vacations! I don’t know about you, but through the year I am always finding myself dreaming of vacationing but during the summer it can be hard to find the time to plan it.  I’m hoping by answering these questions, I will be able to focus more on planning a summer trip before summer is over! Now, onto the questions thanks to The Blended Blog!!

Great questions

-Will you go on a summer vacation this year?

Yes, hoping to get away for a few days at the end of July or early August. It can be hard to plan a trip when you are coordinating six different schedules!

– Do nothing or a pack it all in vacation?

Pack it all in. Yes, we like to relax but if we are going somewhere new or a place where there is lots of attractions we love to pack it in. Plus, you can relax when you are home, when you are away it’s always good to make it worth your while.

-What month do you like to vacation?

Any summer month, we typically go in July though. August can get busy with back to school stuff and June is just the start of summer. July typically works best for us.

In D.C. for a trip

-Cruise: Yes or No?

No! I prefer land and just being away at sea for several days makes me anxious. I do like boating but not for more than a few hours. Haha!

-Favorite vacation tradition?

Getting up early to leave for a trip. Whether it be by car or plane, I love the excitement about getting up in the middle of the night to leave.

-Most memorable vacation?

There are so many to choose from!! I loved going to Disney for the first time, New York City is always fun especially around Christmas time. Our favorite family vacation spot is Hershey, PA so we try to make a trip out of every year.

We headed to Florida one year for spring break

-Hotel, Condo, or House?

Hotels typically work best for our family. It’s nice to use all the amenities the hotels have to offer. We have stayed in condos before, but hotels are our preference.

-Favorite thing to eat on vacation?

Anything that is special or unique to the area. I will always spoil myself with sweet treats on vacation too!

I love heading to New York City especially during Christmas time

-Warm or Cold Destinations?

Depends on the place. I do like warmer climates,  but I would rather choose the place rather than the weather.

Well, there are my answers. Now, it’s your turn! Pick a few questions and answer them in the comments below! Hopefully we can all get around to planning our vacations soon enough!

My favorite place to travel- Hershey
Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #59

LOTD

Hello friends!! Happy belated Fourth of July! I was not a fan of having the Fourth of July in the middle of a week. I was working on Tuesday and now I am back to work today, so between work and the holiday it is a very busy week. The Fourth was a very fun holiday. I was able to see family, friends, eat good food, and relax. Even though, it has been a packed full week, I’m very happy with how it has turned out.

Since, it is back to work today, I’m sharing another one of my business casual outfits. I have worn this outfit this past week at work, and it was perfect for on the go. Not only is it stylish but it is comfortable and professional looking. Let’s get started.

Pretty in pink for work

Last week I raved about these pants and I am wearing them again with a much different outfit. These pink dress pants are from GAP, I love the color, but they also come in blue, black, and khaki. A color for every need you may have. I like how they look more like a dress pant and not a jean or tight like a pair of leggings.

I matched my pink pants with this pink, black, and white dress blouse. I got this blouse from Marshalls on sale!! My favorite store plus a sale-what more could you ask for!? I love how it goes with the pink pants. I have also worn this top with a pair of white capris to bring out the white more in the top.

Lastly, I paired a simple pair of black flats with this outfit to top off the outfit. I got mine from Old Navy and absolutely adore them! As much as I love my wedges or heels, I wear flats at work since I go to different places every day and I am constantly on the go-not the ideal place for heels.

Always good to have a sweater with you

In case you get cold easily like me, I always throw a cardigan or light sweater to wear. I brought a white short sweater to wear in case I got chilly. It’s always good to be prepared at work or on the job.

I hope you all had a wonderful and fun day with your families and friends celebrating the Fourth of July. Have a great weekend ahead. See you on Tuesday!!

Categories
Fabulous living

Summer Picnic and Party Prep

Hello and Happy Tuesday! Tomorrow is the Fourth of July. It’s crazy that we are already in July! Is it just me or is summer flying by?!

One of my favorite things to do in the summer is entertain! I love having friends, family, and relatives over for a barbecue, swim or just to catch up. We always like to celebrate the Fourth of July with a big party with family and friends. I have learned a lot about hosting and entertaining from my parents especially my mom, these are things that I will use when I have my own place one day. Here are a few things I have learned about prepping and hosting summer dinners.

-Plan ahead

It may seem daunting to plan a picnic or dinner party. But don’t get overwhelmed. Plan what things you need to get done and how long it will take you, this comes in handy for time managing. Also, no matter the size of your party-lists is your best friend. Make lists for food you need, decorations, guests,  or any paper products you have to get. It’s also smart to have a menu in mind for your food. Keep in mind to use what you have. If you already have food at home use that before buying more food. Be sure to take inventory before you go shopping. With that in mind, keep your eyes open for things on sale. Maybe you don’t have a picnic coming up but if paper plates are on sale, pick up a stack for later,

-Have others help

If you are hosting a big barbecue with lots of families and friends, don’t be afraid to accept their offers of help. If someone asks if they can bring something-say yes.  They will feel good that they are doing their part to help. There can never be too many appetizers or desserts. This also makes your guests feel appreciated for helping out and it allows you to try new recipes. Who doesn’t like to try new things?! Making a list will also come in handy when keeping track of who’s bringing what.

-Enjoy yourself

After all the hard work is done be sure to enjoy yourself. Don’t worry about cleaning up while your guests are still eating or talking. Be present and enjoy the company. If something doesn’t turn out the way you planned, don’t sweat it the only person who will notice is you. You have worked hard for your party so enjoy yourself with your guests.

I have loved to help my parents through the years to help plan and put on parties and get-togethers. What tips or advice do you have for when it comes to putting on and celebrating the holidays?! I would love to hear anything you have to offer! Have a safe and memorable Fourth of July! God Bless America!

Categories
Fashion

Look of the Day #58

LOTD

Hello Friends! It’s Thursday, only one more day till the weekend! Woo Hoo!

Earlier in the summer, I mentioned how I would be sharing more professional and business casual outfits for the intern, college student, or new employee. Today, I have a new outfit that is cute, colorful, professional, and affordable. What more could you ask for?!

Ready for a new day at work

Let’s break down this outfit. I got these cute pants from GAP. This year I have really been struggling to find dress pants, so many pants on the market today are skinny, tight and almost look like leggings-not what I am looking for in a dress pant. I found these at GAP and not only did I love the cut, form but the color is too cute to pass up. The rose-colored pink breaks up the neutral colors that I wear to work daily. I have a few other print and neutral tops for work that I often wear with white or blue pants, so these pink pants will break up the colors. I’m positive you will be seeing these pants more this summer.

I got my blouse from Francesca’s Boutique. I love the sleeves. The blue and pink go so well together. I like how you can wear this top with a blazer or sweater or by itself. Because it is a solid top, I knew I had to dress it up with some jewelry.

I like the simplicity of this necklace but at the same time it adds dimension and character to this outfit. Silver is also a great color that can tie outfits together. Another reason why I chose to add it to my outfit.  I decided to wear a simple pair of blue drop earrings to finish off my jewelry.

As much as I love heels, it’s not always smart to wear them at the workplace where you could be running errands and on your feet all day. These simple, black, pointed toe ballet flats from GAP are perfect for the office setting. They are professional but also comfortable.

No matter where you work, you can always spruce up your wardrobe while not breaking the bank. Just remember not to go overboard as you are still in the workplace and are representing the place you work.

Have a great weekend!