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Currently #37

Hi everyone! I canā€™t believe we are at the end of January! This month went by so fast, it was definitely nice to have a slower month compared to a busy December at the end of the year. This past month has been a good mix of fresh starts, staying cozy and getting outdoors too. As the month wraps up, hereā€™s a look at some things I have been up to.

What I’ve Been Up To: Iā€™ve spent this past month decluttering and organizing things. After a full December, both mentally and physically, I was looking forward to some New Year cleaning. I have been participating in the Simplified Simplicity Challenge this month and I have been so proud of doing little things every day to live a simplified life. I’ll be sharing a recap of my simplicity challenge next month.

Cleaning out different areas of your life, like your purse is just one example of the daily challenges.

I also have been trying to get outside for fresh air even in the colder months, whether itā€™s for a walk or run, even a few minutes outside makes all the difference. I also have been trying some new recipes and enjoying some new books too. January has been slow but productive.

January has been filled with lots of snow too!
Another new recipe I tried this month, Shrimp Avocado Medicine Soup by Jessie James Decker.

What I’m Wearing: I have been wearing all the layers especially when I am outdoors. I have so many scarves that I have been making a point to wear them when Iā€™m out and about. Not only do they keep you warm, but they are also a great fashion statement too.

All the layers for chilly weather.

What I’m Reading: Iā€™ve been reading lots of books over the past few weeks as I spend more time indoors. 

Hereā€™s what I have been enjoying.

I Didn’t Do that Thing Today- “I Didn’t Do that Thing Today” has more of a psychological feel as opposed to a narrative feel. The author talks about all the research and interviews she has conducted when it comes to productivity. As someone who thrives on being a productive person and getting everything done, I learned a lot about not having to be busy all the time and giving ourselves breathing room and not letting a lack of accomplishment affect our days.

Spare-I have been making my way through  Spare, Prince Harryā€™s book. The book begins after the death of Princess Diana and follows Harry’s life to the present day. So far, I have found Prince Harry to be very real and vulnerable, but also giving historical context and perspective to different things in his life. I’m looking forward to finishing the book soon.

What I’m Watching: I have been watching and enjoying The Mindy Project. Itā€™s so fun and easy to have on in the background as I get things done. I also have been watching some fun movies. I watched Knives Out: Glass Onion, About Fate and Something From Tiffanyā€™s. All can be found on streaming services, they were all a mix of romantic comedies, mystery and dramas. Iā€™ve been adding more things on my list of things to watch.Ā 

About Fate was such a cute movie on Amazon Prime.

What Inspires Me: Iā€™ve been inspired by a clean slate for the new year. From decluttering to starting new yearā€™s resolutions and getting back into new routines. I love the new year and a fresh start.

Hello decluttering for a fresh start!
I’ve also been enjoying some baking too.

What I Accomplished: In addition to fresh starts, I have also been getting back into some of my favorite routines and hobbies. I got a few new cookbooks for Christmas and have really enjoyed trying out some new recipes including soups and hearty meals. I also have been so good about keeping up with friend dates, whether they are in-person or via facetime, itā€™s so good to get some quality friend time in.

New cookbooks means new recipes.
Winter weekends means pancakes!

Goals from Last Month: I have started on some of my New Yearā€™s Resolutions which also gets me in the right mindset for the new year. Sometimes, the hardest part of starting a new habit is taking that first step. One of my goals of this year is to live a healthier lifestyle and I have tried to do that by making smarter food choices and moving more, we are only one month in, but we are off to a good start. I also have been checking things off my winter bucket list too!

Goals for this Month: February is all about love and Valentineā€™s Day and showing those in your life that you care! Iā€™m looking forward to a Valentineā€™s Day date, some girlfriend time for Galentineā€™s Day and enjoying some chocolate and all things heart shaped. Plus, Iā€™m excited to continue to enjoy winter by taking winter walks but also cozying up inside. 

I also went to a hockey game this month and I’m hoping to go to a few more before the season is over.

Thatā€™s a look into life recently. Some reading, some binge-watching, trying new foods, staying active and getting back into new routines.

Ā 

I’ve also been enjoying some puppy cuddles too.

Tell me: How has your New Yearā€™s Resolutions been going?

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Currently #32

Hey guys!

Happy Wednesday! As we wind down with another month, Iā€™m sharing what Iā€™ve been up to this past month. August was a busy month, from days trips to family vacations and last minute cramming in all the summer fun!

What Iā€™ve been up to-This month was filled with soaking up summer! From bonfires, a trip to an amusement park at home, a family vacation, packing up my brother for college and a weekend wedding, plus add in wrapping up a big work project, August was a busy month, but so fun! It was so good to soak up the sunshine and squeeze in some summer fun!

Summer s’mores and bonfires!
Family trip to the beach!
Fun times being a kid at a local amusement park.

What Iā€™m Wearing– As summer winds down, Iā€™m making sure I wear all my summer clothes, from sundresses, shorts and t shirts and bathing suits! We took our family trip to the beach and it was so good to just wear a bathing suit and shorts most of the trip, it reminded me the days of being a kid. Old Navy had a few great sales that I fully took advantage of. Be sure to stay tuned on a clothing haul post soon!

My uniform for the beach (and most of the summer)…shorts and t shirts!

What Iā€™m Reading-August was such a good reading month! I read three great books back to back! I started the month with Finding Freedom. This books follows the story of Harry and Meghan from when they met to their decision to step back as Senior Working Royals. Iā€™ve always been interested in the Royal Family and found this book to be so enlightening. If you are interested in Harry and Meghan, I definitely recommend this book.

After such a good book, I didnā€™t know how to top it, well I found it with One Italian Summer. This is one of the hottest books this summer! Iā€™ve been on a waiting list to read it since May. It was definitely worth the wait. It follows the story of a young woman who loses her mother and takes a trip to Italy and learns more about who her mother was as a young woman. I loved the description and how vivid the author makes the setting in the book. I loved the plot twist at the end! 5 STARS for me!

After hearing about this next book for years, I finally got my hands on Daisy Jones and the Six. I loved the way this book was told (itā€™s told through a series of interviews). The story follows the story of a fictional band and what led to their formation to what led to their demise. I fell in love with the characters and the plot. I canā€™t wait to watch the series on Amazon Prime.

What Iā€™m Watching: Iā€™ve been spending so much time outdoors, I havenā€™t been watching a lot of movies or shows this summer. I did recently finish Maid on Netflix which follows the true storyĀ  of a young woman and mom who after getting out of a bad relationship must start from the ground up. I shared a bit about it on my last currently. It was definitely a heavier mini series but itā€™s one that really sticks with you. After hearing a lot about it, Iā€™m glad I got to watch it for myself.Ā 

What Iā€™m Loving: All the times outdoors! From walks to zoo trips, amusement parks, beach days, even just sitting by the pool. Iā€™m doing my best to get outdoors as much as I can before the seasons change.

Time spent reading and outdoors is a favorite of mine in the summer!
Grilling has been another summer favorite!

What Inspires Me: After spending a few days at the beach, I really loved having a few days to slow down. Iā€™ve found that day to day, you donā€™t realize how busy life gets and how itā€™s always go, go, go, until you stop to catch your breath. Iā€™m glad I had a few days to recharge and slow down.

It felt so good to relax for a few days at the beach!
Enjoying outdoor dining was another summer favorite!

What I Accomplished: I checked off almost all my summer bucket list options as shown from my post last week, plus I got a few extra activities thrown in tooĀ 

Ending the summer months by relaxing at a lake for the weekend.

Goals from Last Month: From a family vacation to entertaining guests, afternoons reading and nights swimming. I got so much in and the good news is just because kids may be back to school doesnā€™t mean the weather gets cold, Iā€™m looking forward to spending more time outdoors as long as the weather permits it!

Beach days!
And ice cream nights!

Goals for this Month: As much as I hate to say this while still in August, next month, Iā€™m looking forward the transition of one season to another. Iā€™m excited to start thinking about my fall bucket list and still enjoying the time outdoors. I love walks in the fall and seeing the leaves change. Thankfully we still have time before it gets too cold, so right now Iā€™m going to enjoy all the sunshine I can and I hope you will too!

Fun times entertaining this summer!

Enjoy the last few days of August!

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Currently # 31

Hi all! Happy Wednesday! It makes me sad to think that we are already at the end of July. This summer is flying by. With summer more than half way through, I’m doing my best to make the most out of August and September with the nice, warm weather before the seasons change!

As always, it’s time for Currently, a look at my life over the past month. These past four weeks have been filled with walks, picnics, pool days, grilling and indulging in all the summer foods and friends!

What I’ve Been Up To: I’ve been doing everything in my power to be outside, from walks on weekends, to eating meals outside, going for ice cream dates and just reading outside. Our summer season feels so short, so I try my best to take advantage of the sunshine, blue skies and warm weather. I’ve also enjoyed a lot of time at home with events slowing down, it’s been nice to have a more open schedule.

I’ve enjoyed lots of summer walks in the morning, afternoon and night.
I’ve also enjoyed grilling at the parks after a long walk

What I’m Wearing: I’ve been teasing it for a while but NEXT WEEK will be my summer dress round up. It’s been so fun to try new dresses and styles all summer long. In other clothing choices, I’ve been wearing lots of short sets for walks, some t-shirt dresses for evenings out and then I’ve been rotating some graphic tees as well. I like to keep it simple in the summer with easy things to throw on so no matter what I’m doing I’m comfortable, especially on days off.

An example of an outfit that I would wear on a day off!

What I’m Reading: I finished The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue and I didn’t know what to expect about this girl who never ages. I really enjoyed following the story as it begins in the 1700’s and continues to present day. There’s mystery, romance, suspense, and some magic too. When Adeline makes a deal in the 1700’s it has lasting effecst that she was never expecting. I love how the book jumps through time periods and you get to see her in different places and times. Even if you don’t read this book, I encourage you to read a book from a genre you typically don’t read, you may surprised about what you enjoy.

I also finished The Paris Library this past month. This historical fiction book goes back and forth between the 1940’s in Paris and the 1980’s in Montana. It follows the story of a woman who works in a library during World War II and then flashes forward to her life in the 1980’s living in the United States. Again, there’s some mystery and intrigue and some romance. I love how the book goes back and forth between time periods too!

What I’m Watching: I jumped on the band wagon and binged “The Summer I Turned Pretty” on Amazon Prime. It was a great coming of age series that had a lot more depth than I was anticipating, there was lots of lightheartedness but also drama and suspense. Definitely worth the watch this summer.

I’ve also been watching another drama, “Maid” on Netflix. It tells the story of a young woman who hits rock bottom and looks to start over by working as a maid. It’s definitely a heavier show, but really good.

Besides tv shows, I went to see the new Elvis movie and I was blown away. I really enjoyed the storyline, the iconic music and learning about Elvis. It was worth seeing it on the big screen.

Ā 

What I’m Loving: LOTS OF WALKS! Iā€™ve been doing my best on my days off to take longers walks. Iā€™ve ventured to Pittsburgh for a day trip to the zoo and a park.

One of my favorite exhibits at the zoo.
And a walk by the water.

Iā€™v traveled to Bemus Point, New York for a morning at a State Park there and then enjoying the beauty.

Sweet summertime in New York.

I’ve also enjoyed fairs, festivals, live music and food trucks this summer. All things on my bucket list too!

Local fairs
And festivals
Concerts by the water
Food truck treats!

I also went strawberry picking last month and made a lot of different tasty treats with my haul.

Such a fun activity!

I made strawberry jam, strawberry and lemon bread and then strawberry shortcake too! Yum!

The haul!
Strawberry jam!
Strawberry and lemon bread
Strawberry shortcake

What Inspires Me: Summertime means fresh flowers. Iā€™ve been enjoying talking long walks to cut flowers to put in vases around the house. I always enjoy having the smell of fresh flowers in my room and Iā€™ve enjoyed adding them to other rooms in the house too.

Fresh flowers from the garden

What I Accomplished: After a busy first month of summer, Iā€™ve been happy that I got to slow down more this month. Thereā€™s been more afternoons by the pool, more mornings spent reading and late nights visiting with friends.Ā 

A summer stroll closer to home!

Goals from Last Month: I had a wonderful time celebrating the Fourth of July with family. I also got to see some relatives from out of town which was lots of fun. In addition to family, I have been enjoying time with friends. From dinners to walks and ice cream runs, itā€™s been great to get outside and spend time with friends. Iā€™ve also been lucky to see friends I havenā€™t seen in a long time. It was so great to catch up in person and the visit was long overdue!Ā  I am looking forward to more time with friends next month.

Fireworks on the Fourth!

Goals for this Month: I really want to cross off the final things on my summer bucket list. I’ve been doing well so far, but there’s a few things I’m looking forward to checking off-some of them are new things to me too! I’m also really just looking forward to relaxing and enjoying summer days and nights too. Soaking up summer is what it’s all about.Ā 

Sweet summertime!

How are you planning on spending the last full month of summer? I know you can catch me outside! Let me know how you will be spending summer in the comments below!

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Currently #27

Hey everyone! Happy Wednesday! Can you believe we are days away from April? Where did March go, itā€™s finally starting to feel like spring and Iā€™m here for it! March was a packed month full of work, fun, getting some sunshine, and getting ready for spring!

What Iā€™m up to: This past month has been filled with spring cleaning, getting outside for walks, lots of reading, and then time with family and catching up with friends. Itā€™s been a good mix of relaxing and getting things done, those are my favorite kind of days and months. I spent the day in Pittsburgh a few weeks back and enjoyed a tasty lunch and an afternoon at the Art museum. It felt so good to take a road trip and be surrounded by art and change up my normal routine.

Snapshots of the Art museum.
Our tasty lunch of pizza and salad!
More art!

 

What Iā€™m wearing:  We got a few days in the 50s and it was so nice to be outside in just a long-sleeve shirt and jeans. Iā€™ve also been trading my winter jacket for my trench coat, thereā€™s nothing better than sporting lighter jackets. I have also being wearing sneakers more as opposed to boots-another win!

What Iā€™m reading:  I finished Pride and Prejudice which was such a nice treat down memory lane. Now, I just need to find the time to rewatch the mini series.

I also read Katie Couricā€™s book, Going There. I loved every page. I learned so much about Couricā€™s background and it was fascinating to read how she got to where she is today. It was insightful and eye opening.

Iā€™m currently reading Business Minded by one of my favorite bloggers, Carly Riordan. I’m loving learning about different small businesses and how they got their starts.

What Iā€™m Watching: Through the past month Iā€™ve made my way through the new season of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. It was such a good show to watch. I loved everything from the storylines to the fun guest characters and most importantly-the fashion! I love the styles and bright colors! Iā€™ve also been binge watching Downton Abbey, and Iā€™m not ashamed to say that Iā€™m hooked. Itā€™s been the perfect way to unwind and escape the craziness of the day to day life. 

What Iā€™m Loving: Iā€™ve been loving the changing seasons and the anticipation of spring.I got coffee and went on a two mile walk with a friend last week which was much needed and great to get outside. I also decorated areas of my home for spring and Easter. I also got a chance to head to our local zoo which was fun to get outside and enjoy the animals.

What Inspires Me: Iā€™ve been inspired by fresh starts and the spring season and new beginnings. IĀ  got some fresh flowers for my room and added some Easter eggs for some decorations and it quickly brightened up the room. Iā€™m excited for a season of new beginnings and warmer weather.

Fresh flowers and the sun peaking through

What I accomplished: After all my cleaning and organizing, I feel such a sense of accomplishment and ready for spring and summer with a clean slate. I sorted and donated lots of things from clothes to shoes and items I no longer need. It felt so good to clean things out and donate two huge bags of things to those in need. I’ve also been cleaning lots of different closets and drawers and it’s so good to see more spaces empty and not filled with clutter.

Goals Accomplished from Last Month: I started cooking again! This was a huge accomplishment for me. I made a chicken picatta dish a few weeks ago and I also made a fresh tomato basil sauce with pasta. Itā€™s been fun to research different recipes and try them out.

One of my latest recipes, thanks to Joanna Gaines, Magnolia cook book.

Goals for the New Month:  Iā€™m looking forward to celebrating Easter and starting to get the outdoors ready for spring and summer. Iā€™m also looking forward to taking more day trips and getting outdoors more.

Thatā€™s a look into life this past month. A month of decluttering, time with family and time getting ready for the new season. How have you spent your past month?

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Currently #25

Hey gang!

Happy Wednesday!

How was your first month of 2022? For me, this month seemed to drag. I got a lot done at the beginning of the month as I got back into my routines and rhythms after the holidays. But then came the snow and the cold and high Covid cases, so I really hunkered down. Iā€™m looking forward to the warmer days and lower case numbers but until then, Iā€™m making the most of warm days inside, cozy clothes and trying to get fresh air and go on walks when I can. 

Hereā€™s a look into the first month of 2022!

What Iā€™m up to: I have been doing lots of cleaning, decluttering, and organizing. This month has been all about organizing my life mentally and physically. Iā€™ve been using my planner more for short and long term thoughts and projects. I have also been cleaning out closets, cars, drawers, and more getting things refreshed for the new year. I even have been making trips to donate things which makes me feel great. Besides cleaning, Iā€™ve been all about getting back into routines from last year and adding some new habits in my daily life.

I’ve also been doing a lot of baking to cope with the cold days.

What Iā€™m wearing:  It has been cold here. Temperatures in the single digits with lots of wind. For work, it has been lots of pants and warm sweaters or blouses and blazers since you never know where you may end up. Plus, you can never have too many layers. For my off-days, I have been enjoying leggings, boots, big sweaters, and heavy coats for running around or just hanging around the house.

What Iā€™m reading:Ā Ā New year, new books! I started Januray off by reading an inside look at Greyā€™s Anatomy. As an avid fan of the show, I loved this book and found it super interesting. Then I also read, this book about home design and styling. Another fabulous read that will give you lots of inspiration for interior and exterior design.Ā 

What Iā€™m Watching: I have been enjoying the return of This is Us especially since its in its final season. I also really have been loving Tidying up with Marie Kondo on Netflix. I know I am late to the party but I love it.

What Iā€™m Loving: I love the fresh start of the new year. We have seen a lot of snow fall and thereā€™s nothing better than enjoying a warm drink like tea or hot coco and having a smooth start to the day. I have also been enjoying lighting the fire place at the end of a long day. 

Nothing better than a cozy morning and a warm drink

What Inspires Me: I am always inspired my setting New Yearā€™s Resolutions and Goals. I am inspired by fresh starts and new beginnings. Thereā€™s no better feeling than lighting a new candle, a clean desk and fresh planner to kick off the new year. I also am excited to get back into my new routines and establish some new ones too. 

I went on a coffee date with a friend and loved the wallpaper. So cute!

What I accomplished: I had a very successful Christmas with my immediate family and I got to see some extended family too. I got enjoy some family time and do some activities too. Although, I  had to work, Iā€™m still very grateful that I got to see my family and still carry on holiday traditions. 

Going skiing with my family was a fun activity over Christmas
We also went to see the Van Gogh exhibit around Christmas. It was so beautiful and interesting.

Goals Accomplished from Last Month This past month was all about starting the year on the right foot and I did that. I was thrilled to get my new Simplified planner all set up. I also started my new yearā€™s goals and resolutions which Iā€™m very pleased with how they are going. Itā€™s those little things every day that make a huge difference. I canā€™t wait to see what this year has in store an how I can learn and grow.

New year, new planner set-up.

Goals for the New Month:  Next month, I want to do my best to get outside more, especially for walks when I can. My friend Sydney gave me the idea to schedule time for ā€œMe Datesā€, essentially itā€™s about carving out time to do something for you, whether itā€™s going to a coffee shop to read a book, taking yourself to a movie or going for a solo walk, itā€™s all about taking time for yourself. I want to make that a priotity for myself this year. I also am looking forward to celebrating love with Valentineā€™s Day next month.

Thatā€™s a look into my life today. How has 2022 been treating you?

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Currently #23

Hi everyone! Happy Thanksgiving Eve! I hope you are getting ready for your Thanksgiving feasts! Whether you are heading to familyā€™s or doing all the cooking yourself, I hope you all have a happy Thanksgiving.

Iā€™m looking forward to being able to celebrate Thanksgiving with my family and having the day off! Granted, Iā€™ll be back in work the next day, but having a day off will be wonderful.

I always like to be as open with you all as possible, so this past month hasnā€™t been too exciting. A lot of work, family time, watching movies and pretty routine things, I didnā€™t even take many picturesā€¦blogger fail. Nonetheless, hereā€™s a look at whatā€™s currently going on. 

What Iā€™m up to:Ā Itā€™s been a productive and busy month at work, from starting the month with the election, we had our annual food drive at work, and just on Monday, I led another roundtable panel. Between work, Iā€™ve enjoyed time at home, watching movies, relaxing and planning Christmas gifts and goals.

A behind the scenes look of when I go live.

What Iā€™m wearing:Ā Glasses! Surprise, I had to revert to glasses for about a week and had to forgo eye makeup, it was definitely an adjustment to go for the more natural look especially at work, but it was good to change it up. Thank goodness I had bought some new, cute glasses too. In other news, I have been wearing long-sleeve dresses and even had to break out the turtleneck.Ā 

A look with glasses before work.

What Iā€™m reading:Ā Ā Iā€™ve been working my way through ā€œAll the Light We Cannot Seeā€, itā€™s a beautifully written book about World War II and childrenā€™s perspectives on it. Itā€™s taken me a while to work my way through it since itā€™s so heavy, but Iā€™ve really enjoyed it so far.

What Iā€™m Watching: Iā€™m still enjoying Community and watching that when Iā€™m need of a laugh. Iā€™ve also been watching a few movies, some new and some classics on Netflix and Amazon Prime too. 

What Iā€™m Loving:Ā Besides work, Iā€™ve been excited for the upcoming holidays, from Thanksgiving to Christmas. I canā€™t wait to see family for Thanksgiving and decorate for Christmas the day after Thanksgiving. Iā€™m also looking forward to celebrating all the Christmas traditions too.Ā 

I saw this when I was shopping and had to laugh.

What Inspires Me: Iā€™ve been inspired by all the Christmas dĆ©cor and gifts that Iā€™ve seen in the stores. Iā€™ve done some window shopping but havenā€™t started any major shopping. Thereā€™s something about seeing giftwrap and bows in the stores excited for Christmas and all the traditions.

Seeing this come out is getting me even more excited for Christmas!

What I accomplished:Ā Iā€™m feeling super accomplished after getting lots of work projects done. I have started some Christmas shopping and planning. It was great to start ordering some things too. I also got much needed rest.

My little buddy enjoying time on the couch.

Goals Accomplished from Last Month Iā€™m happy I got to enjoy some bursts of warm weather, like going for a walk and enjoying the changing leaves. 

Some of the leaves from my walk under my desk.

Goals for the New Month:  My plan is to get my holiday shopping done early, so I donā€™t have to worry about things coming in late and then Iā€™m looking forward to Christmas traditions and celebrating holidays with my family.

Thatā€™s a look at my life the past month, itā€™s not too exciting, a lot of work projects, and a mix of family time and relaxing. How are you spending Thanksgiving?

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Currently #16

Hey guys! Another month is coming to an end, I canā€™t believe May will be here next weekā€¦I am very excited for next month because it means we are getting closer and closer to summer. I’m looking forward to spending more time out in the sun.

This month I have been spending as much time as I can outside both in and out of work.

Hereā€™s a look into my life over the past month.Ā 

What Iā€™m up to: This month was all about welcoming spring! The month started out with Easter preps! We dyed eggs and went to Easter mass and saw family. It was a much more normal celebration compared to last year when we were all in a stay at home order. Iā€™ve also wrapped up a few work projects which was a great sigh of relief and the Iā€™ve been spending a lot of time outside! Going on walks before or after work has been a favorite of mine!

Easter morning…one of my favorite traditions
And you can’t celebrate Easter without an Easter basket.

What Iā€™m wearing:Ā The weather has been funky, some days itā€™s been in the 70s, other days its been in the 40s, so that makes dressing for work tricky. Luckily, I know the power of layers! But my latest favorite is this trench coat from J. Crew! I got it for Christmas, and I couldnā€™t wait for spring weather to start wearing it. It is the perfect spring jacket that can be dressed up or down. I have worn it over my work dresses but also with leggings and jeans. Hereā€™s a few of the looks.Ā 

One of my favorite trench coats from J.Crew! Here it is all dressed up! And my little pup jumped in the photo!
Here it is dressed down a bit with leggings.

What Iā€™m reading:Ā Reading has been my go-to to start or end the day. In the past month, I finished The Tenth of December, I listened to it on audible and you can read about my experience with audiobooks here. Itā€™s a collection of short stories with different moral lessons. It was a good read, but it wasnā€™t my favorite.

I also read Growing Boldly by Emily Ley. YouĀ Ā can read my full review in last week’s post.

One of my favorites of the month!

And then I read And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. This was my favorite book I have read recently. I loved the concept, the mystery, the intrigue and the characters. It was soooo good and definitely one of my favorites of the year so far.Ā 

I couldn’t put this one down!
My weekly book club dates are a highlight of my week!

What Iā€™m Watching:Ā Ā My weekly shows are starting to wind down.Ā Ā This is Us wraps up in May, this season has been so good and I have enjoyed seeing how the show and cast has adapted to Covid.Ā Greyā€™s AnatomyĀ has been my favorite this year, from seeing how first responders and hospital staff and doctors deal with Covid, to lots of stand alone episodes and Meredith on the beach with TONS of INCREDIBLE guest stars, wow, this season has been fantastic!Ā Ā A Million Little ThingsĀ has been good and fun to keep up with. Those have been keeping me busy. Besides those shows, I just started watching Offspring, its about a family and their dynamics as adults. Itā€™s very funny and light hearted on Netflix.Ā 

What Iā€™m Loving: Even though we had some chilly weather last week, I am loving the warmer weather and taking advantage of the sunshine. Last weekend I picked flowers when I was out for my walk. It was beautiful! On another note, I have been obsessed with Taylor Swiftā€™s (new?) album. Itā€™s bringing me back to my middle school days. 

What Inspires Me: I am inspired by spring colors and the changing seasons. I have so much hope for a much more normal summer and I canā€™t wait to start making my summer bucket list. I am also inspired by Pinterest lately, from quotes, to seasonal things, cooking, and home dĆ©cor. Itā€™s been so fun to browse a bit every night. 

Going for walks has me craving spring.

What I accomplished: Iā€™ve been really happy with my new hobbies, from reading and cooking. Itā€™s been such a fun and creative outlet. Plus, Iā€™m really happy with some of my recent pieces at work and some fun opportunities. Also, by far my favorite accomplishment was getting my Covid-19 vaccine, Iā€™ve been following the story and covering dozens of vaccine clinics for months and I was thrilled to finally get my vaccine (or the first dose at least). 

A behind the scenes look on the job.

Goals Accomplished from Last Month Last month, I definitely accomplished my goals of being outside more. I have been trying for walks several times a week. I donā€™t make it a to-do, but enjoy them as they come. The past few months have been super hectic, so I was happy I got the chance to slow down more. I also got some bonus time in there with my extended family which was such a surprise and much needed since we havenā€™t seen each other much due to the pandemic.

I was out in Pittsburgh for a family commitment and went to Pizza place, best pizza I’ve had in a long time! Yum!

Goals for the New Month: May is my birthday month! Iā€™m so excited to celebrate 23!!! I also canā€™t wait for the official kickoff for summer with Memorial Day weekend. Most importantly, Iā€™m looking forward to getting my second covid shot next month. One more step to normalcy!!!

Thatā€™s a recap of my life. Nothing too exciting, but some of the best things in life happen during the simple days. What are you loving nowadays?

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Currently

Currently #15

Happy Wednesday! We made it to the end of March! This month flew by. I canā€™t believe next weekend is Easter!! Spring is definitely in full swing and by full swing I mean, some days are warm and sunny in the 50s and other days it is cold and rainy. If that doesnā€™t describe spring I donā€™t know what does. Haha! As another month comes to a close, itā€™s time for another dose of currently. Grab your coffee or tea (iced or hot) and letā€™s settle in.

What Iā€™m up to: This month has been a mixture of work, spending time outside and enjoying hobbies outside of work, from reading, to cooking and seeing friends! Also, lots of family timeā€¦my favorite!

What Iā€™m wearing: I am bringing out more pastel and spring colors! Yay!! Everything from blues to pinks and greens or at least trying too! Haha! I wear a lot of blackā€¦no secret there and Iā€™m finally looking forward to putting it away for brighter days and colors ahead. The tricky part about spring is jackets! I am always cold, literally it could be 65 degrees out and I would still need a jacket haha. I always have a jacket with me but it always depends on how thick it is. Can I go lighter or do I have to have a warmer one? I am counting down the days until I can do a heavy duty cleaning of all my winter jacketsā€¦fingers crossed itā€™s coming up. Also, the fact I have been able to wear sneakers or converse while  I have been out and about is a huge game changer!

Been trying to incorporate more spring colors in my wardrobe.

What Iā€™m reading:Ā I have been doing a lot of reading lately. I am reading a little bit every day. Hereā€™s a recap of some of my recent books.Ā Godā€™s Behaving BadlyĀ by Marie Phllips , we read this book for our book club in February, it was a mix of Greek mythology with a modern twist.

Our March book wasĀ The First Phone Call From HeavenĀ by Mitch Albom, this is a faith based book about people who receive phone calls from loved ones from heaven. Is it God or is it someone else.

This past month was a great book month because I also wrapped up,Ā 52 Small ChangesĀ by Brett Blumenthal. This can be read at once or one day at a time about big and small ways to change your life.Ā 

What Iā€™m Watching: I watched Firefly Lane last month which was good. Itā€™s a Netflix mini series about two women and their friendship from young girls to grown women. This past month, many of my favorite shows came back, hello This is Us, Greyā€™s AnatomyA Million Little Things, so those have been keeping me busy. I also have been watching a lot of movies. Some people may love their sports season, but your girl loves her awards show season. I have been watching a lot of movies nominated for awards which has been super fun!

What Iā€™m Loving: I did a post about this a few weeks back, to read it, click here, but I have been loving all my new hobbies and activities outside of work. Now, that itā€™s finally warming up, I tā€™s been so nice to be outside whether itā€™s for a walk or reading or even spring cleaning. Iā€™ve already been on a few zoo trips, near and far which has been fun! I canā€™t wait to be outside more. You donā€™t realize how much you miss the sunshine and warm weather until itā€™s gone. 

The weather was so nice, a trip to the zoo was necessary!

What Inspires Me: Iā€™m inspired by spring!!! Thereā€™s a sense of hope and promise and new beginnings in the air. I canā€™t wait to pick fresh flowers, go outside for lunches or dinners. I am also looking forward to changing out my wardrobe and just sprucing things up for the news season.

What I accomplished: Iā€™ve been really happy with my new hobbies, from reading and cooking. Itā€™s been such a fun and creative outlet. Plus, Iā€™m really happy with some of my recent pieces at work.

My latest dish…chicken and risotto.

Goals Accomplished from Last Month I got so much quality friends and family time in during the last month. Between walks, book clubs and coffee dates. I also spent a lot of time with family after work between dinners and movie nights. With summer right around the corner, I canā€™t wait for nights spent by the pool or grilling. 

Goals for the New Month: This month I want to be outside for as much as I can whether itā€™s with outdoor projects or just walks. Easter is next week, even though Iā€™ll be working, Iā€™m looking forward to celebrating the holiday before and after work with my family. Something else I am looking forward is clearing off my schedule more. As much as I like being busy, I am looking forward to some open time in my schedule. 

Thatā€™s a look into my life the past month. Lots of hobbies, friends, family time and work. Not too exciting, but we are keeping it real. Have a great week ahead!