Happy June! I can’t believe we are already into the sixth month of the year and making our way through 2022.
As we embark on a new month and in a few weeks, a new season, I figured it was time for a summer bucket list.
I love goals and I love to do lists, in order to maximize my time in the summer and have fun, I enjoy creating bucket lists. This bucket list is a mix of free and inexpensive things around my hometown and region of things I want to do this summer. Some can be done multiple times, others are a one and done kind of deal. If you are on the hunt for fun things to do this summer, feel free to steal an idea or two from the list.
I love to support local spots and community events, so I’m hoping to do that more this summer. I also like to use the summer season as a way to slow down a bit, less appointments and to-dos and more time to rest and go with the flow (one of my goals for my 24th year!)
Sumer Bucket List for 2022
This summer I hope to accomplish as many of these things as possible and do more activities that goes beyond this list.
Here’s a look at my summer bucket list:
Heritage Festivals/ Fairs
Day trips
Zoos
Beach Day
Pool Day
Celebrate Fourth of July
Time with family
White Turkey
Sara’s
See college friends
Go Someplace New
Meal by the Water
Food tour
Picnicing
Winery/Wine Tasting
Happy Hour/ Ice Cream Hour
State/National Parks
John Russell Brewing
Mini Golf
Kayaking
Amusement Park
Outdoor Concert
That’s a look at some things I hope to accomplish this summer. What are some things you are looking forward to this summer?
Happy Wednesday. I hope your week has been filled with sunshine, warm weather, and all the spring vibes (or something like that).
Today, I have a currently lined up for your reading. I know it’s a bit earlier in the month, but I have an extra special post set up for next week
Without further ado, here’s a look into what I’ve been up to this past month.
What I’m up to: I’ve been LOVING all the warm weather. Last week we had weather in the 70s all week long. I’ve been trying to get outside more after work, whether it’s for a walk or just to sit and read. I’ve also been enjoying making lighter and summery meals.
Seeing flowers and plants and trees in bloom brings a smile to my face.
A few weeks ago I made a lemon chicken sheet pan dinner which was so flavorful and easy. I got the recipe from Mix and Match Mama and I really enjoyed cooking it.
A look at my meal from a few weeks ago.
I also celebrated Mother’s Day with my family and enjoyed dinner with my family and a trip to the zoo.
A few shots of our trip to the zoo.
Such an array of colors.
I’ve also managed to enjoy some friend time over the past few weeks which was much needed.
What I’m wearing: I’m always on the look for work dresses and clothes. I often stop into stores like Marshall’s of TJ Maxx just to see if there’s ever new finds. I lucked out big time during my last time in finding affordable and fashionable clothes. As far as casual clothes, I’ve been able to break out some shorts and t-shirts which just makes me happy that warm weather is here and here to stay.
I also got a fresh trim for summer which was much needed!
What I’m reading: I finished Not A Happy Family and wow-what a good book. I couldn’t it down. I’m typically not a thriller lover but this was soooo good. A great mix of mystery and thriller and not too scary.
I’m currently reading, Paris is Always a Good Idea and it’s the opposite of Not A Happy Family, it’s light and fluffy and will make you want to travel. It’s such a good call for summer.
What I’m watching: I started and finished season 5 of Selling Sunset, it’s such a guilty pleasure, I started to watch it when it came out for the real estate, but now I watch for the drama. Haha!
On a more serious note, I watched The Anatomy of a Scandal and loved it. I finished it in one weekend. Another great cliffhanger mini series with a great cast.
What I’m Loving: ALL the WARM and SPRING weather. That’s all. I love being outside and enjoying ice cream and walks after work and not having to wear all the layers.
I even had my first hot dog grilling of the season which just gets me in the summer mode.
What Inspires Me: I’ve been planning a few fun summer plans and excursions and it’s making me excited for summer and adventures and more hikes and times with friends and family and maybe even a trip or two. I’ll be sharing my summer bucket list at the start of June!
I’ve already been to the beach once for a walk this summer and I can’t wait to head back more.
What I Accomplished: I enjoyed celebrating my mom for Mother’s Day at the beginning of the month and I had a few other special birthdays too. We enjoyed a fun family meal to celebrate my mom.
The process
The finished product
I still have a few graduations and my birthday to celebrate so I’m excited for those in the coming weeks.
Goals from Last Month: I’ve been really good at seeing friends consistently who live in town and making time for friends out of town. I also got a lot of start of spring/summer must dos done like different odds and ends that feels good to start a new month on the right foot. I also took a day trip with my mom and brother to the National Comedy Center in Jamestown which was so fun and I learned a lot too.
A look at the iconic I Love Lucy set.
And some scripts from The Office.
Goals for Next Month: I’m looking forward to starting my summer bucket list and enjoying time outside with my family. I have a graduation and some day trips planned to see friends so I’m looking forward to that. I’m also excited to spend time with friends and family and enjoy more time grilling and swimming and trying to take it slow? I know, easier said than done. Overall, I’m just really excited for summer!
Fresh lemonade and a good book. The perfect combo!
That’s a look at my life today. Lots of family time, time outdoors and good food. How’s life been looking for you the past month? Let me know.
Happy Wednesday! I had to check the calendar twice when I saw that next week is May. 2022 is flying by. As this month comes to a close, here’s a look at what’s been keeping me busy these past few weeks.
What I’m Up To: The weather has been getting warmed despite a day here or there with some snow flurries, yes, even in April. I’ve been trying to take advantage of the spring-like days by taking walks with friends, heading to our local zoo for a walk and celebrating Easter.
Heading to the zoo was always a favorite childhood activity and I still loving going as an adult.
It was nice to enjoy a family Easter dinner and take part in family traditions like dyeing eggs.
Dyeing eggs is always a favorite Easter activities and I still love doing it today.
All fun activities to get into the spring spirit.
What I’m Wearing: I keep trying to find opportunities to wear spring-like dresses and florals, but it’s been tricky with funky weather. I wore this dress for Easter, which I’ve had for years, but it was in the 40’s outdoors. At least I was trying to channel the warm weather even if it didn’t feel like it outside.
The best part of the dress? POCKETS!
What I’m Reading: LOTS of good books. I finished Business Minded by Carly Riordan and learned so much from it. I would recommend it if you are looking to start a business or turn your passion into a career.
I’m a big fan of The Office and I read this book, which I found to be equally entertaining and informative. The book goes through each season and is made up of interviews from cast and crew members. Definitely a good read for any Office fan.
I’m currently reading Everything After by Jill Santopolo. I saw it on display at the library and fell in love with the cover and I’m falling in love with the book. It tells the story of a woman and her two loves in life and if how she decides who is her true love. Yes, it’s a chick flick but we all need that every once in a while.
What I’m Watching: I finished Downton Abbey the series and proceeded to watch the first movie and I can’t wait to see the second movie next month. It was such a good show to escape to during the winter months. I just started Mad Men and even though I’m only a few episodes into it, I’m loving the period drama.
What I’m Loving: I’m really enjoying the fresh flowers and the hints of spring in the air and outdoors. Although, we still have a ways to go until we have consistent warm weather, I’m taking what I can with spring like weather. I’m also loving the spring decorations this time of year and the planning of summer activities. I know the calendar will fill up fast, but I’m looking forward to making plans to see family and friends.
Fresh blooms outside.
What Inspires Me: I keep saving different activities and ideas for things to do in the spring and summer months, so I’m looking forward to making them happen. Pinterest is always my go-to for coming up with fun family or date ideas. Sometimes, I do go down the rabbit hole when it comes to Pinterest but I always end up with lots of ideas.
Fresh flowers to get me into the spring spirit. My post from last week has more about the power of fresh flowers in your home.
What I accomplished: I’ve been doing better at making time for friends. I try to see at least one friend per week whether it’s for coffee or a walk or dinner. It can be hard to see friends with our busy work schedules or commitments, but I always look forward to quality time with friends. There’s nothing better than stepping away from the craziness of life and catching up with friends, whether they are from childhood, high school, or college.
Goals from Last Month: I really enjoyed celebrating Easter with my family and despite chillier days, I’m glad I’ve been able to get outdoors when I could. I’m hoping this trend continues as temperatures get warmer. I’m also looking forward to making more summer meals too. These past few weeks have been busier so I haven’t had a chance to do too much cooking but I’m looking forward to doing more cooking in the summer.
A look at our Easter dinner place setting.
Goals for Next Month: May is a big month. I have graduations to attend, birthdays to celebrate (including my own) and a few plans with friends already on the calendar. Plus, summer is around the corner. I have a feeling it’s going to be a good month. I’m also looking forward to more walks outside. Here’s a snapshot of my stats from a day when I got lots of exercise in.
That’s a look into life this past month. Let me know below what you are looking forward to next month and the highlight of April below!
Hey everyone! Happy Wednesday! Can you believe we are days away from April? Where did March go, it’s finally starting to feel like spring and I’m here for it! March was a packed month full of work, fun, getting some sunshine, and getting ready for spring!
What I’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. It’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 I’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. I’ve also been trading my winter jacket for my trench coat, there’s nothing better than sporting lighter jackets. I have also being wearing sneakers more as opposed to boots-another win!
What I’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 Couric’s book, Going There. I loved every page. I learned so much about Couric’s background and it was fascinating to read how she got to where she is today. It was insightful and eye opening.
I’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 I’m Watching: Through the past month I’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! I’ve also been binge watching Downton Abbey, and I’m not ashamed to say that I’m hooked. It’s been the perfect way to unwind and escape the craziness of the day to day life.
What I’m Loving: I’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: I’ve been inspired by fresh starts and the spring season and new beginnings. I got some fresh flowers for my room and added some Easter eggs for some decorations and it quickly brightened up the room. I’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. It’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: I’m looking forward to celebrating Easter and starting to get the outdoors ready for spring and summer. I’m also looking forward to taking more day trips and getting outdoors more.
That’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?
Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! I hope you are having a great week so far. I’m soaking up as much summertime fun. From pool days to walks, family and friend time and day trips. Summer is winding down and I’m looking to make every moment count.
I have a lot of friends in Pittsburgh so I have been making trips to see friends this summer. I’m also making up time from not seeing people last year due to the pandemic. I’ve also been making trips with family and friends too. I went to the city a few weeks ago and I wanted to share some of my adventures.
Here’s a look of the the first glimpse of the city.
The day started with a trip to the zoo! I love going to zoos and seeing animals and I love to head to a zoo whenever I go to a new city or revisit an old city.
Watching the family of lions interact was my favorite.
Elephants are my favorite animal, and I love seeing them at the zoo!
The otters were cooling off in the water.
After the zoo, we ventured to Station Square for walk and lunch!
A view of the city from lunch.
I enjoyed a shrimp platter from Joe’s Crab Shack!
An up-close view of the food.
Another view of the city at lunch!
After lunch we went on the incline for a view of the city.
Making our way to the top.
A view of the city from above.
Another city view from Mount Washington.
Although, it was only a day trip, we packed a lot in. From the zoo, to walks, tasty food and gorgeous views. It’s always a fun time to visit new places or head to my favorite spots. Where are some of your favorite places to travel to?
If you are a Pittsburgh fan, what are some of your favorite things to do or see?!
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!
Summer is in full swing. My brothers are finished with school and we are getting into a summer routine. The weather is warm, pool parties and barbecues are underway and (I think) things are starting to slow down. Although, I am working a lot this summer I still want to make sure I have some fun. It may seem a bit late to the game but I made a summer to do list. Some things are specific, others are more hopes but I’m sharing it with you today. Towards the end of summer I will share home much I accomplished. When it comes to summer fun… here’s my list.
Summer List
Complete Internship
Go some place new
Take a trip
Sleep in
See high school friends
See one (or more) college friends
Read SIX book (one more than last summer)
Watch SUITS
Can’t wait to start this new series
Watch Evil Genius
Watch Comedians in Cars getting Coffee
my latest obsession
See Mamma Mia 2
SOOOO Excited to see this movie
See Oceans 8
Another movie I can’t wait to watch
See family and spend time with them
Try something new
Go to the beach
Take more walks
Eat at a food truck
With food trucks becoming more and more popular I need to try some!
Watch the sunset and sunrise
See a concert
Spend more time outside
Go swimming more often
Do more free things (Zoo, parks, festivals)
Trip to Pittsburgh
Breakfast at iHop
Don’t rush as much and be in the moment
Smile more
Be spontaneous
That’s a round up of my dreams and goals for this summer! I may add things as the summer goes on. But I love to make a list of to-do’s to make sure I get everything in and it’s not August and I realize I have two weeks to get everything in.
Do you make up summer bucket lists? If so, what’s one thing on your to -do???
