Categories
Currently

Currently #22

Hey guys! We are almost to my favorite time of year; all the holidays…from Halloween to Thanksgiving and rounding things off with Christmas! I love this time of year. I have been embracing the fall with all the leaves and the cooler temps. Here’s a look into what I’m currently into. 

What I’m up to:  I’ve been enjoying all the fall activities, I’ve been trying to go on long walks every week. Whether it’s near or far, I love a good walk. To read about some of my favorite walks, check out my latest post. I’ve also been spending lots of time with family. I’m also slowly getting ready for the holidays by decorating for Halloween and fall! 

A rainy day and a nice walk was the perfect combination for a Friday

What I’m wearing: I hate to say it, but my wardrobe hasn’t been too exciting. I’ve been wearing hoodies and sweaters and jeans on days off. For work days, It’s been a mix of long sleeve dresses and pants with blazers too. Layers has been key when it feels like winter in the morning but summer by the afternoon. 

Jacket in the morning…
Not needed by the afternoon…hello fall weather!
Long sleeves and straight hair for cooler mornings on the desk

What I’m reading: Reading every morning has been the best way to start my days. I really enjoyed The Silent Patient, it was the perfect mix of a mystery and a psychological thriller.

Here’s what I started my month with.

For romantic mystery, What if You and Me was a great pick. There’s also a spooky twist to it, which makes it perfect for Halloween.

Another cute one story with a cute twist

I just finished reading The Last Mona Lisa, it was one of the best books I read in a long time. I loved the historical mystery and the two different time period parallels.

One of the best books I’ve read in a long time.

I’m currently reading, Nantucket Threads, which is a summer beach read, it’s definitely lighter compared to my past few reads. 

What I’m Watching: Besides my weekly shows like Grey’s Anatomy and A Million Little Things, I’ve been watching Community, which is perfect to watch in the mornings when I’m getting ready or at night if I want to watch something to unwind. The all-star cast makes it so fun to watch! I’m also on the to watch season 3 of You on Netflix. I’m hooked on it. 

What I’m Loving: I’ve been loving fall walks, seeing the leaves falling, doing lots of  reading and warm mornings and nights. I have been starting my mornings between the gym and work by lighting a candle and sipping some hot cider while I get ready for the day. I do some reading and meditating before I head out the door. It’s the best way to start the day. 

Another fall walk in the books.

What Inspires Me: I’ve been inspired by the slow and steady of daily life mind you, not every day is slow and calm, I have plenty of busy days but I savor the calm ones. I’ve also been doing lots of baking to which satisfies a sweet tooth and it gives my family a sweet treat to enjoy.

A fall trail mix on a day off

What I accomplished: I’ve been getting things done on my fall bucket list, from walks to fall treats, cider, and cozy nights in. I’ll be sharing my full bucket list recap in the coming weeks. 

Fall pumpkins for some pretty decorations.

Goals Accomplished from Last Month I’ve done a good job at slowing down. After a busy summer of travel, it’s been nice to have more lowkey days off. Last week, I spent the day reading, watching some shows, baking, meal prepping and running a few fun errands. It was the perfect mix of balance on a day off.  

First Time making s’mores cookies,

Goals for the New Month: Did someone say holidays?! I can’t wait to start getting ready for the holidays, between gift giving, seeing family, treats and decorating….I can’t wait

That’s a look into the past month. What have you accomplished in the past few weeks?

Categories
Fitness Travel

Fall Hiking Spots

I need to start today’s post by putting it out there that I’ve never been much of an outdoors or sporty person. I played soccer in the summer when I was in grade school, and I did tennis for one year in middle school. But other than that, I didn’t do too many other sports. I have always enjoyed working out, whether it’s lifting or cardio, but I won’t be competing in the Olympics anytime soon. But walking? That’s up to my speed.

One thing I have always loved is walks. There’s nothing like taking in nature and fresh air while getting in a workout. I took advantage of walks even more during the pandemic. It was a safe way to see people at a distance, get out the house, and have things be semi-normal. I have continued to fall in love with walks and hiking in the past few months and I love traveling to different places to see new things and get in a good walk too. Plus, you can go for a walk in every season-just make sure you dress appropriately.

Here’s a roundup of some of my favorite spots so far this fall.

-Presque Isle

The beautiful Lake Erie

This may seem like a no brainer, but I love going for walks at Presque Isle. People come from all over the region and I’m lucky enough to have it in my backyard. Whether it’s on the paths by the water or deep in the trails, it’s a beautiful spot to walk in any season.

-The Bayfront

Another view from the Bayfront

Another beautiful spot to go for a walk in the city is on the Bayfront. There’s sidewalks and parks to enjoy time outside and with a beautiful backdrop. I love watching the sunset after taking an evening stroll.

-Erie Bluffs

A hidden gem outside of Erie.

Not the greatest picture, but it was beautiful spot about 20 minutes outside of Erie. Erie Bluffs has a number of trails and walking areas. I stumbled upon a beach and access to water and it was a great place to take in the scenery especially after a long walk.

-Geneva State Park

Another view of Lake Erie, this time from Ohio.

If you are looking to head out of Erie County, then heading over to Ohio for a quick drive is always a good idea. At Geneva State Park, there’s a number of trails, both paved and not paved to enjoy. There’s also the beaches, the camp sites and the vegetation to enjoy. I love getting to see Lake Erie from all different angles.

-Cuyahoga Valley National Park

The creeks and the trees were picture perfect
Another view

If you are up for a bit of an adventure, heading into Ohio, there’s plenty to find. A few weeks back, I ventured to Cuyahoga Valley National Park for a train ride and a walk. Even though it was cold and rainy it was the perfect fall backdrop. I loved all the trails and paths.

-Kinzua Bridge State Park

The broken railroad tracks.
All bundled up for a walk

Another perfect place for a walk with some gorgeous views especially in the fall is the Kinzua State Park. There’s a number of trails and places to explore but the highlight is seeing the broken railroad tracks after a tornado came though a number of years ago. You can go down into the valley which is a pretty cool part too.

-Letchworth State Park

My second favorite waterfall in New York.
Gorgeous views

I spent my first time in Letchworth State Park just a few weeks ago. It is in the middle of nowhere in New York, but after going through twists and turns, you hear the rushing water and then you are greeted by the waterfalls. You can view them from all different levels. I loved the fact that there was these beautiful waterfalls in the middle of a forest. Simply stunning and so serene.

There’s are just a few places that I have travelled to recently. Where are your favorite places to hike, walk or run.

Categories
Let's Get Cooking

Fall Recipe: Cake Balls

I always like to make a new treat/ snack/ meal every season. At the start of the year I was on a roll with cooking one meal a week, I have to admit, I have been slipping these past few months. I’m hoping to do more cooking these next few months as fall and winter settle in. I did manage to make a new fall dessert a few weeks back with my mom. Here’s a tasty recipe for cold days inside. This is a super simple, three ingredient dessert that’s perfect for any get together.

Cake Balls

Ingredients:

  • Cake mix (baked or pre-made)
  • Icing
  • Melting chocolate
  • Garnishes (sprinkles, chocolate chips, etc.)

Directions:

  1. Make cake (I used chocolate for this recipe, but any flavor works. I just made a cake from the box with eggs, water and oil. )
  2. Once cake is baked, let it cool.
Cake is done!

3. Break apart cake until it’s all broken up.

Cake broken apart

4. Combine icing (I used chocolate) and cake and mix together.

The new mixture

5. Roll cake mix into balls and then place in freezer for 30 minutes.

The cake balls ready to go in the freezer

6. Once they were done in the freezer, I melted chocolate and dipped the cake balls in to completely cover them. It can get messy, so I would reccommend using a spoon to dip them.

The cake balls all dipped in chocolate

7. The chocolate dries fast, so make sure you dip them fast and add garnishes, whether it’s sprinkles or chocolate chips or nuts.

The finished product. I had some leftover melting chocolate so I made some dip pretzels. Yum!

Enjoy your dessert! You can freeze leftovers and enjoy at a later date.

Up close of the dessert

This is just a fun and easy dessert that I saw on Pinterest and wanted to try for myself. It was easy to make and tasty and was a great crowd pleaser. What fall recipes have you been making?

Categories
Fashion

Fall Outfit Round-Up

Hi guys! HappyWednesday. I hope your week is off to a great start.

Now that we are in the midst of fall, I thought it was time for a fall outfit roundup. To be honest, the weather has been fairly mild, so I still am wearing some summer clothes and dresses. Some mornings its really chilly but then by 3:00 in the afternoon, it’s 75 degrees, it makes planning for outfits very challenging.

I have a feeling the deeper we get into autumn, the more I will have to transition from lighter to darker colors. I am ready to welcome fall with open arms. I’m ready for layers, sweaters and all things cozy!

Here’s two new looks, one for the office. One for a weekend or a day out and about.

Bright red for fall

This work dress is score from Amazon. I placed an order this summer and was really happy with all my purchases. To see some of my other Amazon successes, click here.

This red cotton dress is perfect for summer and fall. It’s affordable, easy to clean and great quality. It’s light enough for summer and the hot days, but a great transitional piece for changing seasons. I may even try and wear it in the winter with a blazer and tights.

I love the Peter Pan collar and the cut and style of the dress.

Overall, this was a major win for me!

If you are looking for a casual look out of the office, I have an option for you too.

A casual look

I went for a fall walk and train ride a few weeks back and it was the perfect time to break out some fall clothes. I got the top from J.Crew for Christmas and couldn’t wait to wear it. I love the detail in the collar and the puffed sleeves. It’s a classic look for spring and fall.

The vest is an oldie but a goodie. I got it from Francesca’s several years ago and it was a staple during my college years. It’s lightweight and perfect for the start of fall.

I paired the outfit with a pair of new leggings from Target. I’ve only worn them once, so the jury is still out on them, but I was pleased with the color and the comfort especially after walking all day. We will see how wear number two goes.

Lastly, I rounded the outfit off with a pair of shoe boot wedges from Payless. I wore them a lot in college but haven’t worn them a lot recently. I was happy they are still comfortable and durable.

Up-close of the top.

I will have plenty more outfits as the season goes on. This is just a start. I can’t wait for more fall weather and outfits. What are your favorite looks for this season?

Categories
Currently

Currently #21

Hey hey guys! Happy final week of September! Anyone else feel like we just celebrated Labor Day??

This month feels like a whirlwind, from wrapping up summer fun to starting the fall season. This month was packed full with lots of fun and memories. Here’s a look back on September with Currently.

What I’m up to:  Lots of fall walks! I am trying to soak up as much time outside as possible. From walks at the Peninsula, to walks in the woods or just in my backyard.

Finishing summer with summer walks.

I finished summer with a traditional baseball game.

Ending summer at a baseball game.

I’ve also made headway in my fall bucket list! l already went to a pumpkin patch and I’m making headway in some scary stories and fall walks too. Besides work and family time, my hobbies have been keeping me busy.

I already went to a pumpkin patch this year.

What I’m wearing: The weather has made it hard to find outfits this season. Sometimes I can get away with short sleeves, other times, its long sleeves and pants. I have a fall roundup of work clothes coming soon! I am starting to break out my leggings when I’m at home on days off or when I come home from work. I found a great pair from Gap, they are super long lasting and are thick too. I also like that they are high-waisted too!

What I’m reading: I finished reading “The People You Meet on Vacation” and I absolutely loved it! From the characters, the plot and the way it was told. If you haven’t read it yet, I highly recommend it!

My little buddy reading with me.

I’m also currently reading “The Silent Patient”. My friend Maddie recommended it to me and I have loved it! I’ve never been a fan of thrillers or dark mysteries but I’m hooked on it. What are some books you are loving?!

What I’m Watching: I finished watching season 2 of Modern Love. I really loved the first season and I thought the second one was good, but I really loved the first one. Based on popularity I started to watch Community. I really love the characters and how its only 30 minute episodes. I also can’t wait for my shows to return on tv!! Shows returning in the fall is a big favorite for me!

What I’m Loving: As we are making our way through fall, I’m all about staying in more, less time traveling and more quality time unwinding after work or spending time with family. I’m loving cozy nights in and building time in my schedule for the things I love including reading or shows or even going for walks or coffee with friends. 

I’ve been spending a lot of time baking.
And cooking too!

What Inspires Me: For the longest time I was putting off the start of fall. I wanted to hold onto summer for as long as I could. I enjoyed a boat ride with co-workers and I enjoyed a flower festival with my mom too!

But now that fall is here, I’m embracing it!! From seeing the leaves fall to lighting warm scents and candles to seeing pumpkins and hay and apples in displays in stores and at different farmer’s markets. 

Boat rides with co-workers!
And summer flower festivals too!

What I accomplished: As far as accomplishments go, I’ve been keeping busy at work between some projects and just the daily work. I’ve been making time for meaningful time with family too. I got busy in the summer visiting friends, but now that things have quieted down a but I’m liking a quieter lifestyle. I even started finding old hobbies fun again, like word searches. I loved them as a child and I’m found my love for them again!

I feel like a kid again with a word search!

Goals Accomplished from Last Month I really soaked up the end of summer and the warm weather by going on walks and enjoying some tasty ice cream, say it with me, ice cream makes everything better. Now, that summer is officially behind us, it’s full on fall mode. 

Big pumpkins are getting me ready for fall!

Goals for the New Month: Besides working, my goal for the next month is to accomplish as many things as possible on my fall bucket list! I love my lists and I look forward to crossing more things off and making memories.

My Fall Bucket List

That’s a look into my life this past month, all about the changing of seasons and getting ready for a new season. What are you looking forward this next month? What was a highlight from your past month?

Categories
Fabulous living

Fall Bucket List

Hey ya’ll, it’s fall!!! I rarely say ya’ll except to have it rhyme with fall hehe! If you have been following along for a while, you know I love my bucket lists and to do lists.

Every season I make a list of activities or things I want to do in that season. I’ve made them for the past few summers and I love seeing how much I accomplish and all the memories I make along the way. They can be as simple as getting a favorite drink or going for a walk or something bigger like heading to a fall festival. It’s all about taking advantage of opportunities and making memories.

I always like to create a list of season must-do’s. Here’s my fall 2021 bucket list:

My Fall Bucket List
  • Apple Picking
  • Niagara Falls
  • Kinzua Hike
  • Hockey Game
  • Cider Press
  • Decorate Pumpkins
  • Collect Leaves
  • Scary Book and Movie
  • Celebrate Halloween 
  • Fall Walk
  • Enjoy Hot Apple Cider
  • Make A Fall Treat
  • Mason Farms
  • Fall Festival

This is just a little to-do list of plans I have for the next few months. If I get them all done, great! If I don’t then it’s not the end of the world. Sometimes, I do things that aren’t on my list and that’s part of the fun. Also, having a list helps come up with ideas to do when you are looking for fun inspiration.

What’s something on your fall bucket list!?

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Fun Ways to Organize

Goal Setting

Hey guys! Happy Wednesday.

As we make our way through September, I always feel a sense of nostalgia of back to school and being back in the classroom. As much as I love my job, I sometimes do miss being in the classroom and being a student, but it’s all a part about growing up.

I’m a big believer in setting goals and to-do lists. Even as I write this post, I have a to list of things I want to get done while I’m in work. 

I found it helpful to write out things I want to accomplish whether they are big or small. Plus, there’s always a sense of satisfaction when it comes to marking things off a list and seeing hard work pay off. 

Here’s my tips on how to accomplish goals (big and small):

  • Write it down

I find it helpful to write down daily, weekly and monthly goals. In my planner, I always write down my goals for each day and because I have a weekly layout, I can see what things I want to accomplish across the seven days. I always use Emily Ley’s Simplified planner. This helps me stay on track for the days, but in case I don’t get something done on a Monday, I have the next day to get it done. As far as big plans goes, writing down big plans or goals on a post-it note or in a journal where you will see it, keeps it in front of your mind always. 

A look at my planner
  • Set realistic goals

I’m all about following your dreams and having the world be your oyster, but I also know that you need to work hard to get there. Here’s an example: if you want to be a performer, that can’t happen overnight. But if you take lessons, practice, perform at small venues, share your music online and on social media and network, then the dreams of being a performer could become a reality.  Dreams are possible if you set goals to get from one step to another. Dreams take years to accomplish, but if you get goals to get there then it’s possible. I love seeing how accomplishing small goals can lead to big changes. 

  • Allow your Goals to Change

It’s great to have a plan, but don’t be afraid to be flexible if your plan changes. I filled out a journal/book after I graduated college and it was called “In Five Years”, it was all about where you wanted to see yourself in 5 years. It was exciting to see what dreams and plans I had and where I saw myself in the future, but I also know that life happens and plans change. I think it’s important to set those big goals but also be open to the future and the possibilities it could hold.

I’m a very Type A, OCD person, so I’m all about staying on top of to-do list and goals. I think setting and accomplishing goals is a great way to achieve your dreams while also being realistic. 

What are your tips of accomplishing your goals?

Categories
Fabulous living

Mindfulness

Hello all! 

Happy Wednesday! It’s still warm, the sun is shining and technically summer, but it’s September, which means fall is coming. Labor Day is over which means we are making our way into autumn. I’m excited for the new season, but I’m still not ready to say goodbye to summer quite yet.

I mentioned a few weeks ago, that I’ve started to incorporate mindfulness in my daily routine. According to Merriam Webster, mindfulness is “the practice of maintaining a nonjudgmental state of the heightened or complete awareness of one’s thoughts emotions, or experiences on a moment to  moment basis.” I first heard about mindfulness in college and then learned more about it through work and stories I’ve done. I always found it interesting and these past few weeks I wanted to give it a try myself. 

If you have been following me for a while, you know I love my Fit Bit! One of the features the app has is to track your mindfulness. There’s a number of guided breathing exercises to calm your heart rate and soften your breathing. It took a while to get into a routine of doing it and just about finding time that works in my schedule to do it. What I like about the Fit Bit app is that there are a number of different guided breathing practices, they range from two minutes to 30 minutes. YouTube also has a number of guided practices too. Most of the time, I do my breathing exercises after I journal in the morning or when I am driving to work. I really like to take the time before the day gets underway to just reset and calm the mind before the day gets busy.

On the app, you can monitor your monthly mindfulness and your daily mindfulness

At this point I do my breathing exercises 7 days a week. It only takes a few minutes, and it gets my mind and heart in a good spot before the day gets busy.

Here’s some of the different exercises.

I am a routine person through and through. When I can start my day with journaling, breathing and a workout and reading, I know my day is off to a great start. 

Being more mindful and taking time to reset before the day gets started has been a huge help to lower my stress level especially on busy work days.

What ways do you unwind and relax before or at the end of your day?

Categories
Fabulous living

Summer Bucket List Recap

Well, here we are in September. This weekend is Labor Day and therefore the end of summer. Although, I plan on still soaking up as much sunshine and warm weather when days permit it. Now, that summer is almost over, it was time for a summer bucket list check in. Did I accomplish all my goals, did I add somethings to the list?! Let’s take a look.

Summer Bucket List Recap
  • Seawolves Baseball Game

Didn’t happen but there’s still a few more weeks left of home games, so I’m hoping to make it to one before the season is up.

  • Start a new show

I finished Offspring this summer, I also watched the second season of Outer Banks, watched the second season of Modern Love and I watched the Pursuit of Love. I watched a lot over the summer. The Pursuit of Love was good, it followed the lives of two women through their lives in the 1930s and 1940s. It’s only three seasons, so it’s not too long of a commitment.

One of the series I watched
  • Summer reading

I read lots of books this summer, from fiction to non-fiction, beach reads and autobiographies. To see everything I read you can check out my past Currentlys or my Instagram stories. I’ve really enjoyed getting lost in books this summer. 

  • Travel someplace new

I didn’t travel any place new but I did have new experiences, such as travelling alone and seeing new things with family and friends.

  • Best friend’s wedding shower and Best friend’s wedding

One of the highlights of my summer was celebrating one of my best friend’s bridal shower, girl’s weekend and wedding. It was incredible to see college friends and celebrate love this summer.

A look at my dress
  • See college friends

I was able to see college friends through visits to Pittsburgh, wedding festivities, shopping trips, and lunches. 

  • See high school friends 

I saw my close high school friends this summer. I kept up with my book club this summer, I also went to my 5 Year Class Reunion, and dinners and holidays! I’m so glad I stayed close with my friends. 

Time with high school friends
  • Ice cream nights

My answer to everything this summer was ice cream. Good or bad day, ice cream was the answer. I went to many of my favorite ice creams spots all through the summer. 

Lots of ice cream this summer
  • Dinner by water

I didn’t get dinner by the water but I got lunch which was perfect! Especially in Pittsburgh and seafood too, It was perfect!

Summer by the water
  • Play putt putt

I played putt putt both here in Erie and on vacation, so fun!

  • Beach day

I was able to head to the beach one morning before work and on a day off too. Plus lots of walks at the peninsula.

  • Zoo 

I went to many zoos this summer. I went to our local zoo a few times. I also went to the Pittsburgh Zoo and Keystone Safari too which was so much fun! Ya girl loves the zoo and animals. 

Keystone Safari for the day
  • Family trip

My family and I went away for a few days at the start of the summer and thank goodness we did, because the summer got busy once we got back.

Family time in Hershey!
  • Pittsburgh Trip

I went to Pittsburgh with friends and family this summer. I also went to different places surrounding Pittsburgh to visit friends.

A view of the city from above.
  • See family

I got to see lots of family this summer between picnics and celebrations and just relaxing. It was great to see so many people especially after a year without seeing people. 

The Fourth spent with family

– White Turkey and Sara’s

Both classic summer spots. I’m so glad I was able to enjoy them with family and friends. 

Hot dog and ice cream on the beach after a walk.
  • Niagara Falls

I didn’t make this happen this summer but there’s still time in the fall to make it happen.

  • Grill nights

I enjoyed lots of grilling. From barbecues with friends, family nights at home, and just enjoying time outside. 

  • Entertain friends

I didn’t get to do a lot of entertaining this summer, but I did get a lot of visits in.

  • Winery or Brewery

I didn’t make this happen this fall, but I’m hoping to make it happen this fall!

  • Celebrate 23

I celebrated 23 with lunch at work, followed by cake and presents on my birthday and the day after. I also went out to dinner after work the day after too. It was great to celebrate a new year full of new adevntures.

My birthday dress.
  • Summer festivals

I enjoyed some local festivals as a part of my job and after work. It’s always great to support community events and change things up on weekends or after work.

  • Pool days

I spent lots of days out by the pool, between reading outside, floating in the water or playing in the water. I had time to soak up the water on hot summer days!

Even my dog Reese got in on the pool action.

That’s just a look at what I did this past summer. What did you accomplish this summer?!

Categories
Currently

Currently #20

Hey guys! I can’t believe we are at the end of summer. This summer flew by! Even though I’m not in school anymore and I can still do things outside into September and even October when the weather is nice, it’s still sad to think summer is winding down.

This month has been extra busy but also lots of fun! Here’s a look into my life lately.

What I’m up to: I’ve been busy making lots of trips to see friends. From dinners, to shopping and lunches, and the weddings. One of my best friend’s got married last weekend, I was one of her bridemaid’s and it was so fun getting to celebrate her these past few weeks and this past weekend. There’s nothing better than celebrating love with people who you’ve known for years. Work has kept me busy too, but I’m in a really good place in life, so I can’t complain!

Work always takes me to different spots. One day it took me to the pool on a hot summer day!

What I’m wearing: I’m trying my best to wear all my summer clothes and dresses before it gets too cold. I have been wearing lots of bold and bright colors. I’ve been also wearing some short sets and blouses on my days off too! 

Wearing some bright color at work

What I’m reading: I have been reading a lot! I finished, One Summer in Paris. It follows two women, one from England and one from the United States as they meet while both in Paris for the summer. It’s about friendship, love, the City of Love, finding yourself. I really enjoyed it! I also read the actress and comedian, Retta’s autobiography. It’s about her life journey to where she is today and how she got into acting and comedy. It was a fun and light read. It almost felt as if she was reading it to me. I’m currently working on Tina Turner’s autobiography, Happiness Becomes You, it’s been very informative and have learned a lot about this singer. 

What I’m Watching: Ladies and gentlemen, I finished Offspring. I really loved it! It was so fun and light- hearted and the perfect spring/summer show to watch. I definitely recommend it on Netflix. I also blitzed through Outer Banks on Netflix too. It’s a teen drama, but I watched the first season during Covid, so I had to continue it. It was really entertaining!!

Season 2 was soooo good!!!

I’m watching some movies before I start another series or before my fall shows return. I watched The Last Letter from your Lover, it was very good and a great period romantic drama. 

A movie win in my book!

What I’m Loving: I’ve been loving lots of time outside, whether it’s a trip to the zoo, and ice cream date or an afternoon by the pool. I’ve also been enjoying lots of summer meals, like salads, salmon, and snacks by the pool too. 

A delicious combo of salad and salmon! Yum!

What Inspires Me: I’ve been inspired by being more mindful. I’ve started to do mindful breathing in the morning. Every morning I always do some reading and journaling and prayer but I’ve started to add some breathing exercises, just to be in the right mindset before I start the day. I’ve noticed it has been helping start my day off on the right page. 

My mindfulness journey so far

What I accomplished: I’ve gotten to see so many friends and I have loved it.  I also loved celebrating one of my closest friend’s big day! I saw some family earlier this month too which was lots of fun! It’s been a busy but a summer filled month! I also got lots of pool days in too!

Even my dog Reese got in on the pool action.

Goals Accomplished from Last Month My goal was to keep enjoying summer and I mostly certainly did that. I’ll have my summer recap coming up soon. I love to see how much I accomplished both on and off my list! Stay tuned for that story coming up!

Fresh flowers are a favorite summer must have of mine!

Goals for the New Month: As much as I hate to admit it, next month will be all about the transition from summer to fall. I’m looking forward to this last few weeks of summer and spending as much time as I can outdoors.

That’s a recap of August, it’s been a busy but fun month. How’s your last full month of summer been?!