Hello All! HAPPY FRIDAY! We made it through the week! This has been a hectic week at both home and work, but we made it to Friday and I’m very grateful for that. I’m hoping things slow down just a bit, but we shall see.
The last of the fall leaves
I hope you have had a great week and are ready for the weekend and maybe have something fun planned. As we move away from all the Halloween fun, I am back into fall mode, before Christmas in just a few weeks. I really like to take this time for my prep or calm before the storm. I LOVE the holidays, but I’m hoping for a few quiet weeks before the hustle and bustle.
Here’s a few things on my radar that I’m loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea.
Insight Timer– I recently started to try mediating, mindfulness, and deep breathing exercises. I have always taken time at the start and end of my day for prayer, but have also incorporated some guided breathing exercises too. I have found it to be very beneficial, especially when I am overwhelmed and stressed out. I typically take time at the start and end of my day for breathing, but have found myself doing exercises through the day too. I have been using the app, Insight Timer daily and it’s been doing a great job at holding me accountable and providing resources for guided meditations and breathing exercises. I am just using the free trial, but have been really loving it.
Atoms– Speaking of apps, I also have been using the app called Atoms to hold me accountable. The app was created by James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, a book I read this past year. I have really been loving his app which helps you track new habits or break bad habits. It sends you daily reminders about completing your tasks and gives you positive affirmations through the day as well. I have used the app to help with putting my phone down and now with meditation and both have been very helpful. I’m using the free version through this as well.
The Diplomat– Season two of The Diplomat starring Keri Russell came out last week and I have slowly been making my way through the season. It picks up right where it left off from season one. This show has me hooked with new characters, storylines and of course some crazy plot twists. The finale had me shocked and I can’t stop thinking about it. I binged a lot last weekend. You can watch the trailer here and stream season two on Netflix.
Outer Banks Part Two Out– Another season of a favorite show of mine is out. I mentioned this a few weeks ago, when the first part of Outer Banks season four was released, but now the second half was released and I can’t wait to watch. I may or may not have started depending on when you are reading this, but I can’t wait to see how season four wraps up. The premiere was really good and I’m looking forward to the rest of the episodes. The first half started out a bit slow, so I’m anxious to see what storylines get solved and what cliffhangers remain. Here’s a look at what you can expect.
Atmosphere– Taylor Jenkins Reid announced her new book coming out next summer last week. It’s called Atmosphere and I can’t wait to read it. Here’s a look at the synopsis and the cover art. I personally love the UK version more, but I can’t wait to get my hands on it. I doesn’t seem like it will be in the same universe as some of her other books, regardless, I can’t wait to read it.
That’s a look into life lately and what I’m loving.
Tell me what are some highlights from your week? I would love to hear them! Have a fantastic weekend!
Hello all! Happy Friday! I hope you all had a great week! I say this at the end of every month, but this month flew by. The next month will be packed with activities so I’m looking forward to a few more days of calmness before it gets crazy. I have been starting most mornings but taking a short walk to cut some flowers and it’s such a beautiful, but slow way to start the day, get some fresh air and bring some of nature indoors.
Here’s a look at some of the things I have been loving this week as I link up with with Erika and Andrea!
I Am Celine– I have enjoyed Celine Dion’s music and was sad to learn when she announced her illness last year. Her new documentary “I Am Celine” is now on Amazon Prime. I really loved getting a behind the scenes look at her life before and after her illness. I also loved hearing some of her iconic songs throughout the documentary. Definitely worth the watch if you are a Celine fan.
Summer Dress– I got this dress from Ann Taylor earlier this summer and wore it to both to work and for a wedding. It is such a perfect outfit for a summer wedding or shower. It’s bright and cheery and light and flowy too. Perfect for an afternoon or evening out. I wore it with wedges and hoops, but you can wear it with studs and stilettos.
Wow Volumizer Spray– I got sucked into an ad from Pinterest and saw this Wow volumizer spray online and decided to try it for myself. It works great and I have definitely seen a difference in my hair when I do it up for work. I typically just put a pumps in my hair right before I style it and it gives my hair volume for several hours.
One True Loves– I read One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid a few years ago and blogged about it here. I really loved the book and was excited to learn it would be made in a movie. I finally got around to watching it and really loved it. I think it stayed pretty true to the book. They did a great job with casting as well. Watching movies or tv shows based on books can be hit or miss, but I would consider this to be a hit. You can watch it on Hulu.
The Perfect Couple trailer– Speaking of books being made into series or movies, the trailer for The Perfect Couple by Elin Hilderbrand came out last week and I can’t wait for the series to come out on Netflix in the fall. I blogged about my thoughts on the book here. It’s all about a couple whose daughter is getting married but someone ends up murdered during the wedding weekend. I can’t wait to see how the book compares to the series. You can watch the trailer here.
That’s a look into what I’m loving this week. What are some things that are catching your attention this week? Have a great weekend!
Hi friends! Happy Last Day of May! This has been a packed month and I swear it flew by in the blink of an eye. I hope you had a fun and relaxing Memorial Day weekend and enjoyed the unofficial kickoff to summer.
A snapshot of our Memorial Day spread!
I had a busy weekend between celebrating the holiday, working and then celebrating my 25th birthday. It was packed full, but oh so fun!
Celebrating 25!
With my pup too!
Now, that I have got you all caught up on this weekend, as another month comes to a close, it’s time to recap this month with a new edition of Currently. Here’s what I’ve been reading, watching, and doing.
What I’ve Been Up To: May was a busy work month between traveling to Canada for a day trip to preview the Coronation of King Charles III, which you can read about here, Primary Night in Pennsylvania and kicking off summer events.
Day trip to Niagara on the Lake!
Primary night in PA!
On weekends, I have been savoring the warm weather by spending as much time outside by taking walks or runs and making a point to get outdoors.
First sunset of summer!
From doing work outside to taking walks after work or on days off, I even have been making it a point to catch up with friends over the phone or in person over a walk. Spring and summer means eating meals outdoors, I always try my best to spend some time outside every day.
Enjoying a Saturday morning walk and coffee!
I also got to enjoy my first sunset and grilling of the season at the beach. It was a beautiful night to sit on the beach and grill! Looking forward to many more nights this like this through the summer.
First sunset and picnic on the beach
What I’m Wearing: On cooler days, I have been enjoying wearing cuffed jeans and graphic t-shirts and sneakers. I even have gotten to break out the shorts a few times this month too which is a huge win! I can’t wait for shorts season all the time come next month.
A weekend look, cuffed jeans for the win!
I also got a few new closet staples from J.Crew and Ann Taylor which I will be sharing soon. I have been looking for bright colors to wear in the warmer months. I got this bright, yellow dress from a friend from The Limited and it’s perfect for Spring and Summer. I love the color and the style, it would be great for a summer wedding, Sunday Church service or work.
Bright and cheery for spring!
Speaking of weddings, I went to a family wedding a few weeks back and wore this dress. Although, it’s navy blue, I dressed it up with gold accents.
A classic wedding look.
What I’m Reading: The end of April and start of May was a big reading month for me. Here are some of my favorites.
I read the sequel to “It Ends With Us” by Colleen Hoover. You do have to read It Ends With Us, before you read “It Starts With Us“, but I don’t think it’s necessary to read the sequel. It was definitely lighter than the first book and it was interesting to see how some of the relationships progressed and changed, but I don’t think you have to read the sequel.
“After I Do” follows the story of a young couple who after being married for several years goes through a rough patch and agrees to take some time apart. The book follows what happens when they separate and if they decide if they are better together or apart.
“Forever Interrupted” tells the story of a newlywed couple who are on Cloud 9 in marital bliss, until the husband is tragically killed just a week after they say, “I do”. The book goes back and forth between the grieving widow trying to move on and the start of the couple’s relationship. I really enjoyed the two perspectives it was told from and how the two storylines eventually get tied together.
The final Taylor Jenkins Reid book I read was “Maybe in Another Life”. This book follows the story of Hannah who moves back to California and when out with friends, she has to decide if she wants to go home with her ex-boyfriend or her best friend. The story goes back and forth between both decisions, if she plays it safe or makes a bold decision. I really enjoyed seeing both lives and perspectives.
The last book I read was “The Dinner List” by Rebecca Serle, it’s all about a woman who shows up to her birthday dinner with five people from her life. Through the course of the dinner, the purpose of each guest is revealed, and our heroine learns the importance of letting go, moving on, and growing from this special birthday dinner.
What I’m Watching: This past month, I wrapped up a lot of series. I finished The Mindy Project which was so good. I loved the casting, storylines and one-liners and truly didn’t want it to end, however, I was satisfied with the ending.
I also finished The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, which I loved from the get-go. I thought this season did a great job at wrapping things up and giving glimpses into the future of what happens with fan-favorite characters. I am going to miss the cast, the comedy and of course, the clothes! This article gave a great recap!
If you watched the show, what did you think of the final season and ending?
I also talked about Jury Duty a few weeks ago. You can find it on Amazon Prime and it was the perfect show to watch for a comedy filled 30 minutes. I thought the show was well done with the creative story of a group of people sitting in on a court case that’s being filmed for a tv show. The catch is, they are all in on it except for one jurors. It was such a fun show to binge watch.
I also finished The Diplomat which stars Keri Russell on Netflix. It’s all about a woman who becomes the new Ambassador in the United States. It’s a mix of politics, drama, intrigue and some romance too! I give it 5 stars! I’m already looking forward to the new season.
What Inspires Me: Spring and summer mean all the salads! I have been on a kick of making chefs salads. They are so easy to assemble and great to use what you have in your fridge. I often throw in any leftover vegetables I have plus any cheese or sliced meats or even fruit. I love that you can use what you have and get a hearty meal out of it too.
Besides making chef salads, I have also enjoyed making flatbread pizzas this summer and trying different combinations.
Plus in honor of Cinco de Mayo, I made chicken tacos! Yum!
Lastly, I have been inspired by picnics. There’s nothing better than enjoying a picnic after a nice long walk. I enjoy a classic sandwich and chips and fruit for a picnic, but love to switch it up with grilling too.
Summer picnics are back!
What I Accomplished: I’ve been really enjoying time outside, time spent with family and starting summer traditions and fun! If this month is any indication at how summer will look, we are in for a good summer!
Summer appetizers are back!
Bring on the fresh salads.
Goals from Last Month: This past month has been busy as I celebrated my 25th birthday, I accomplished a lot of things on my summer bucket list and I made lots of memories through the spring and did some things for the first time too, like being to a new part of Canada.
Day trips to the zoo are back!
The best part of family weddings-cookies!
And some sweet gifts too!
Goals for this Month: My only goal for next month is to kick off summer and begin my summer bucket list! I am already working on it and can’t wait to share it with you next week!
Whew, that was a lot! May has packed full in the best way. I can’t wait to see what June has to offer! I can’t wait to welcome a new month and summer! See you back here in JUNE!
Hello all! Happy Wednesday and Happy end of March! I wish this month felt like more like spring, but it felt more like winter. To put it in perspective, we got more snow in March than in February and we didn’t even get that much snow.
A look at March in terms of weather!
That being said, I am ready to welcome spring with open arms. The sun has been out more, the days are longer, it’s just good vibes all around. Here’s a look into life recently.
What I’ve Been Up To: This month has flown by with a mix of slow days and busy weeks. This month, I’ve ventured out for the first local zoo trip of the year. I’ve also tried some new recipes, caught up with friends for dinners or long overdue facetime calls and enjoyed some time outdoors, even in the chilly weather. I’m looking forward to fewer layers, sneakers instead of boots for walks, and not heating up my car in the mornings in April, or I’m at least hoping.
First Zoo trip of the year
Weekend drives and breakfast sandwiches
What I’m Wearing: I have been making it a point to wear brighter colors to channel my inner spring even on the colder days. I got this soft green dress from Calvin Klein from Marshall’s and it’s already been a favorite of mine this year. I love the sleeves and the color, a great combo for Spring.
Green for Spring!
I’ve also been pairing neutrals with brighter colors for work, like a pink sweater with a tan skirt. It breaks up the neutral colors and makes you get in the spring spirit.
A spring skirt and top combo
Green has been in heavy rotation this month!
What I’m Reading: I’ve been reading lots of books over the past few weeks as I spend more time indoors.
Here’s what I have been enjoying.
Carrie Soto is Back– I finished Carrie Soto is Back and enjoyed it more than I thought. It follows the story of a tennis player looking to return to the court to claim her title as champion. I learned a lot about tennis, endurance, and hard work. I really appreciated the relationship between Carrie and her father. There’s a lot about female empowerment, family ties, and some romance too. It’s a bit different than some of TJR’s other books, but I really enjoyed it.
It Ends with Us– I started another Colleen Hoover book. It Ends with Us is a serious drama which follows the story of a young woman who falls in love with a neurosurgeon, he seems like the perfect catch, but there’s more that meets the eye. This also comes as her first love comes back in her life. Will she choose her new love or first love? You will have to read to find out. In more good news, a few months ago, it was announced that it was being made into a movie with Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. I can’t wait to watch.
What I’m Watching: A lot of shows that I follow released new seasons so I’ve been catching up on some of my favorite shows. I’m caught up on the new season of YOU, which was filled with murder, mayhem, mystery and of course cliffhangers.
I’ve also watched Daisy Jones and the Six on Amazon Prime which I really loved. From the music, to the character and plot lines, I think they did a great job going from the book to the screen. I was so sad when it was over, but was so satisfied with the ending, even with some changes.
The cherry on top was having the new season of Ted Lasso come out. I really enjoyed the first two seasons and have been loving season 3 so far. I’m so glad the new season is back! You can catch that on Apple TV.
What Inspires Me: I’ve been inspired by lots of cooking and baking. I’ve been trying to bake or cook something every week, I’ve mostly been aiming for new recipes but have worked to perfect some family favorites. Here’s a look at some of my favorites from this past month.
One pan chicken, sausage, potatoes and veggies.
Blueberry muffins
Cinnamon roll bars
Rice Krispy Treats
Chocolate drizzle sea salt popcorn
Taco soup!
What I Accomplished: This month has been so productive from getting yearly check-ups done, hair cuts, tackling big work projects, and catching up with friends who were home on spring breaks from university programs. I also got some quality family time in with both of my brothers home on Spring Break. It’s been a packed full, but such a good month.
Fresh cut for Spring
Hot cocoa and early spring drives.
Goals from Last Month: This past month, I wanted to do my best at creating memories both indoors and outdoors. I celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with our community parade.
St. Patrick’s Day parade in town
I enjoyed Maple Fest in our community, by heading to local sugar houses and enjoying lots of maple treats and of course, syrup!
Learning the process
Successful maple fest
I also went to see a performance of Riverdance. I tried to make the most of the month and I think I succeeded.
Time spent cozied up with my favorite for-legged friends!
Goals for this Month: I can’t wait to enjoy all things Spring, from Easter, to fresh flowers, outdoor walks and kicking off my Spring Bucket list. I’m so excited for the new season and month and everything it brings.
Goodbye Winter..hello Spring!
That’s a look into life recently. Lots of indoor time between reading and catching up on shows. Some time outdoors with walks with pups and friends and trying new things, like recipes.
Nights have been spent by the fire
Tell me: what’s something you’ve enjoyed and savored over the past month? Let me know in the comments below!
Hey Guys! We made it to Friday! I don’t know about you, but I am ready for SPRING. I’m ready to say goodbye to the snow and hello to fresh blooms. As we wait for spring, here’s some favorite things I’ve been loving this week as I link up with Erika and Andrea.
Carrie Soto is Back– My Taylor Jenkins Reid kick has not slowed down. I finished Carrie Soto is Back and enjoyed it more than I thought. It follows the story of a tennis player looking to return to the court to claim her title as champion. I learned a lot about tennis, endurance, and hard work. I really appreciated the relationship between Carrie and her father. There’s a lot about female empowerment, family ties, and some romance too. It’s a bit different than some of TJR’s other books, but I really enjoyed it.
A Path to Well-Being: Embrace Silence for Stronger Mindfulness– I came across this article and was immediately intrigued. I have been practicing mindfulness for a few years now in the morning and at night. I always try to start and end my day with some quiet time. This article shines light on the importance of mindfulness and meditation. Definitely a fascinating article.
Flatbread crackers-I am always on the hunt for different crackers or snacks. I found these everything flatbread crackers from Target and fell in love with them. They go great with dips, sauces, sliced fruits or veggies. Plus, everything bagel seasoning is the perfect extra flavor.
Hair Thickening Spray-I am currently on a mission to use products that I have on my shelf instead of buying new. I have really been loving this hair thickening spray. I apply it after the shower and it leaves my hair feeling thicker and it adds volume. I got it from Target and have been happy with the results so far.
Rice Krispy Treats– I have been craving some homemade treats and the cold weather was the perfect excuse for some Rice Krispy Treats. This was the recipe I used and it turned out great. The sweet treats didn’t last long, they went fast and that’s when you know you made a good batch.
I hope you find something that brought you joy to you this past week. Depending on when you read this, I’ll either be watching Daisy Jones and the Six or have finished it already. For those watching, what are your thoughts? Let me know in the comments below!
Have a great weekend and fingers crossed spring comes soon!
I’m kicking off a new series today called Recommendation Roundup where I gather and share a variety of things I’m reading and watching. You may see me talk about a series I watched or a book I read in a Friday Favorites post or a Currently post, but this series will be one spot where I share my recent top recommendations for the series. Don’t worry, I’ll still be sharing what things I’m loving week by week, but this series that will come out every few months will be a one stop shop for recent favorite things.
Here’s the first recommendation roundup.
For the book lover:
Taylor Jenkins Reid books. Like so many other readers, I have fallen in love with Taylor Jenkins Reid and her writing. I love that several of her books are in the same universe, meaning you could be reading one book and then there’s a reference to a character from another book. Such a creative way to tell a story and to find little Easter eggs in the books.
(I can’t choose a favorite since they were all so good and have their unique storylines. But, I do have to say, I have loved seeing Daisy Jones and the Six come alive on the big screen. I can’t wait for One True Loves to come out soon.)
Rebecca Serle books. I’ve read a few of Serle books and I love how she ties family, love friendship and finding oneself all in one. I also love how she usually has a twist in her books too. She has a way of writing that once you start, you can’t put it down.
Colleen Hoover books. I just started reading some of Hoover’s books but I have found myself hooked with her thriller themes and intriguing way of writing. There have been so many times when I’ve wanted to stop reading since a storyline was getting intense, but couldn’t put it down. Even after reading the books, I still think of the endings.
Downton Abbey (PBS) – A classic period piece with two movies that follows. This series follows a family who’s male heir dies and it’s up to the family to find a husband for one of the three daughters within the family. The series follows the wealthy family in England through ups and downs, war, love, marriage, loss, friendship and new decades. I was hooked on this series and equally loved the movies.
Grey’s Anatomy (ABC) – A series that I have watched for years. It starts with five interns on the first day working in the hospital and follows them through residency and eventually becoming attendings. There’s love, loss, death, drama, lots of crazy, unexpected plot twists, natural disasters, characters coming and going, but after over 20 seasons, it’s still going strong.
This season is off to a great start!
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (Amazon Prime)– This follows a woman who takes a chance on becoming a stand up comedian in the 1950’s. The costumes are fantastic, the one-liners are too funny and the scripting keeps you on your toes. After watching this series, you will wish you were back in New York City in the 1950’s.
Emily in Paris (Netflix)– This tells the story of a young girl who moves to Paris for a job and ends up falling in love with the city. I drool over the fashion, Emily pulls off outfits that I couldn’t pull off. There’s some love triangles, cute one liners, gorgeous Paris scenes and of course lots of finding oneself.
Outer Banks (Netflix)- It may seem like a teen drama and it is, but once you start, it’s hard to stop until you see if a group of high school friends discover buried treasure. Just when you think, things can’t get crazier, there’s another twist. Definitely a fun show to have on in the background.
For the podcaster
The Simplified podcast -Emily Ley and her team put out episodes once a week where they offer ways to simplify and automate your life. They cover topics like friendship, family, cleaning, organizing, schooling, relationships, holiday prep, summer fun and more. It’s such a fun way to find ways to make my life simpler.
That’s my recent roundup of recommendations. Some of my all time favorite things. The next time you are searching for something new to read or watch, I hope this provides some suggestions. Happy hobbying!
Hey guys! Happy Friday or Fri-YAY! I hope you had a great first full week of March! This week was filled with work, doctor’s appointments and getting outside as much as I could.
The second part of YOU season 4 came out yesterday, so I’ve been making my way through that and plan to watch more of it this weekend.
Even though, I’m working this weekend, I have some fun activities planned which I’m excited for. Today, I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea for this week’s Friday Favorites. Here’s some things I’m loving this week!
Where the Crawdads Live– I’m so late to the party on this movie, but I watched Where the Crawdads Live a few weeks back and really enjoyed the movie. I heard about the book, but never got around to reading it. The movie kept showing up on my recommended watch list on Netflix and decided to give it a try. I’m so glad I did! Without giving too much away, it tells the story of a young girl accused of murder in a small town. The girl is an outcast to the town, so many people have already set their minds on if she committed the crime or not. The movie goes back and forth between the past and present. I was worried it would be a little dark, but found the story to be enlightening, beautiful and a story about life and death. Now, I want to read the book!
Etsy Finds– I am a huge fan of Etsy and have purchased some recent gifts from small businesses. I love how unique every item is, how you can talk to the shop owners and the best part is that you are supporting local businesses. If you are looking for unique and timeless gifts, I would highly recommend Etsy! I’ve had such great luck for anniversary gifts, birthday gifts, just because gifts and Christmas gifts! Definitely recommend checking them out.
Blueberry Muffin Recipe-I’ve been on a baking and cooking streak and have been trying new recipes left and right. I tried this new blueberry recipe and loved it! The muffins were full of flavor and so moist. I made them for my family and they were a big hit. I have Pinterest to thank for this recipe.
The best blueberry muffins I’ve made!
Daisy Jones and the Six– Daisy Jones and the Six came out on Amazon Prime last week and I have been devouring this mini series. I couldn’t wait to watch the series after reading the book last summer. It’s been so cool to see the characters I fell in love with come to life on the screen. From the music to the costumes and casting, this has been such a fun show to watch. You don’t have to read the book to enjoy the show, but it’s been fun to compare the two.
One True Loves trailer– Sticking with Taylor Jenkins Reid, the movie, One True Loves, based on her book is coming out soon and I’m so excited to see it. I really like the casting so far and the trailer looks really good and promising for a great movie. You know it’s a good Friday when you have two TJR favorites!
Whew, that was a jam-packed Friday Favorites and a good mix of things I’ve been loving. Tell me, what are some things you have been loving recently or looking forward to? Let me know in the comments below! Have a wonderful weekend!
Here we are at the end of another year. At the beginning of this year, my motto or phrase of the year was “Building the Best Version of Me”. I really wanted to lean into my routines and rhythms that I established at the beginning of the year and stick to them and I was happy I did that.
It’s been said before that the older you get, the faster the years go by and that is certainly the truth.
This year has been busy with growing in my job, time with family both at home and away, building friends, enjoying hobbies.
I’m using today’s entry as a both a recap of the past year and a favorite things of 2022 post.
So, let’s begin with a recap:
The beginning winter months of 2022 brought me out in snow and soaking up with outdoors with ice skating, winter walks and trying cross country skiing, something I haven’t tried in years.
Starting the year off with time outside, like skiing.
Time spent ice skating.
And cross country skiing…
Seeing the Immersive Van Gogh exhibit.
I also took in some local theater.
It also brought day trips to Pittsburgh for a trip to museums and time with family. As the weather got warmer, it meant more time outdoors with walks, picnics and trips to the local zoo and different parks.
Time in Pittsburgh in the spring
I love taking in all the architecture.
First zoo trip of the year.
Celebrating Easter traditions.
Both of my brothers graduated in the Spring, one from college and one from high school, so it was fun to celebrate their milestones as a family. I also celebrated my 24th year around the sun.
First signs of spring.
Cheers to 24!
I tried to spend as much time outdoors as possible in the summer months, from walks, to reading outdoors, picnics, and countless meals outside, our winters are long, so I tred to take advantage of the summer as much as I can.
I went to the National Comedy Center this year.
Summer picnics outdoors.
Drive-in dates.
I met up with friends through the summer months for dinners, or coffee or walks. I also did some traveling with day trips with family and my boyfriend and then some meet ups with friends too. My family and I got away for a few days with and went to the ocean which was such a fun escape.
Beach days in the summer
One of the many places I went for hikes for in the summer.
It felt so good to relax for a few days at the beach!
More zoo trips!
Fair fun!
I spent so much time reading outdoors.
I enjoyed sunrises and sunsets.
The summer was also filled with baseball games, strawberry picking, zoos, bonfires, beach days, and grilling. I tried to head outside as much as I could when the seasons changed from summer to fall.
Day trips to Pittsburgh
Lots of burgers on the grill.
Beautiful night for baseball
Strawberry picking summer fun!
Bonfire nights.
In my happy place!
I went to my first MLB game this summer.
And ice cream nights!
I fell in love with avocado toast this summer too.
I enjoyed farmer’s markets this summer too.
But as the winds changed, I had to layer up for fall walks, leaf peeping and apple picking. I tried to do as much baking as possible when I was cooped up indoors.
Fall drives.
Lots of fall baking
Enjoying Beautiful Fall Walks
Apple picking fun!
First time seeing this majestic waterfall.
Making Halloween treats too.
The last chunk of the year was filled with all things holidays. From Halloween movies to family at Thanksgiving and all the Christmas and holiday cheer. The last few months are always my favorite time of the year.
Family movie night for Halloween.
More fall baking.
Hello holiday cheer!
All the Christmas spirit, from movies to decor, to hot cocoa.
Holiday fun!
That was a bit of a recap, now here’s some of my favorite things from the past 12 months:
Favorite Show: This is Us: the Final Season
Favorite Binge Watch: Downton Abbey (both the series and the movies)
Favorite New Author: Taylor Jenkins Reid (new to me!!)
Favorite New Movie: Elvis
Favorite Artist or Song: Taylor Swift’s Midnights
Favorite Adventure: First MLB Game in Cleveland to see the Guardians
This is a snapshot of this past year, it can be easy to forgot or not recall all the little moments that make up the past 365 days. This year has been so fulfilling and fun. I don’t know what the new year will bring, but I’m ready to embrace the change, take opportunities (even the scary ones), and make every moment count.
Hello all! Happy Friday! I hope you had a great week and have some fun weekend plans, maybe even something fall-hello pumpkin patches and corn mazes? This week really felt like autumn was setting in, from the cooler weather to the changing leaves, it’s been giving me all the fall vibes.
I’m linking up with linking up with Erika and Andrea for today’s Friday Favorites! Here’s five things I’m loving this week.
Apple Muffins– In true fall spirit, I have been spending a lot of time indoors and that includes doing lots of baking. From muffins to cookies, it’s been so fun and cozy to enjoy a warm treat inside. Apples have been my go-to for baking. I made apple muffins this past week and they were a hit. I made them last year and couldn’t wait to make them again this year. They are so easy to make and require little prep and ingredients. I have plans to do some apple picking soon and I know I will be making more recipes with them. Here’s some more apple recipes I enjoy!
Old Navy Shirts– I did some shopping at Old Navy and one of the things I love are their t-shirts. I always get them in white or black in short and long sleeve to have some neutral colors, but they had cute colors for fall and I grabbed a few on sale. I love the color green and I love how it breaks up neutral colors. The fabric is also super soft too. Perfect for fall and winter.
Malibu Rising– I’ve also been doing a lot of reading. I’ve been on a Taylor Jenkins Reid kick. I read Daisy Jones and the Six in the summer and I just finished Malibu Rising this past week. It follows the story of one unforgettable party in Malibu that a family throws every year. However, at this one party, secrets come out, decisions are made and things are forever changed. I personally liked Daisy Jones and the Six better but this was still very good. For any Taylor Jenkins Reid fans out there, what book should I read next?
Snack Lunches– I’ve been eating a lot of lunches at home lately and as a way to clean out my fridge and use what I have, I’ve been enjoying snack plates. I’ll load up fresh cut fruits, veggies, cheese and crackers and enjoy. It’s healthy, filling and it uses what I have in my house.
Operation Mincemeat– I’ve been enjoying some movies and shows on Netflix recently including Operation Mincemeat. It’s based on a true story about a mission during World War II involved Great Britain, Germany and Italy. I really enjoyed the plot, the mystery aspect and the casting too. It is a longer movie but keeps you on the edge of your seat.
That’s a look into what I’m loving this week. Tell me, what’s a favorite thing or two you are loving this week! Let me know in the comments below! Happy Friday!
