Categories
Fabulous living

Summer Date Ideas

Guys!!!!! Can you believe summer is winding down?! I can’t believe we are in the middle of August! I’ve been checking lots of things off my summer bucket list, I can’t wait to share it with you! Before summer is up, I still have some fun summer date ideas for you and your significant other or your girlfriends or family. Here’s a roundup of my favorite summer date ideas! 

-Ice Cream Date 

I always say that ice cream makes everything better! Bad day? Eat ice cream! Need something to celebrate? Enjoy ice cream! Hungry? Ice cream is right around the corner! After work or a walk, there’s nothing quite like enjoying some cold ice cream on a summer day or night. The only thing better is getting ice cream from a local shop. I’ve been trying to enjoy ice cream from every local stand, we will see how it goes in a few weeks. But nothing speaks summer like ice cream!

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

-Going for walks 

I love taking walks in the summer. Whether it’s by the water, on a trail in the woods or on a trail. Taking a walk allows you to have good conversations while getting fresh air and some exercise in. Plus, how can you beat these views by the water?!

Walking my way through summer days.

-Head to a Sporting Event

Whether you are a sports gal or not, heading to a baseball game or soccer game in the summer is relaxing but also a great activity that’s not too expensive. You can watch a game, enjoy a hot dog, and taking in a sunset too if it’s a night game. 

-Zoos

They’re perfect for couples or families; they’re sunny and offer exercise and they’re active and exciting. Plus, it takes you back to your childhood seeing the animals up close and personal. I love to head to a zoo no matter what city I’m in!

Zoos are a favorite date ideas of mine!

-State parks

 I’ve been to a couple around the area and there’s so much they all offer. You can tailor the experience! Wanna swim? Done! Hike? Done! BBQ? Why not!

Summer times at State Parks

These are just a few of my favorite summer date ideas! But, I love to take advantage of the outdoors and adventures in the summer. What are some of your favorite date ideas for the summer?

Categories
Fabulous living

Pittsburgh Day Trip

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?!

Categories
Fashion

Summer Outfit RoundUp

Hello all!! I can’t believe it’s August!!! Where has the summer gone?! I do have to say I’ve been making the most of the summer days and nights. From walks, grilling nights, pool days and lots of ice cream. The summer months have also given me more opportunities to try new outfits and looks. Here’s some of my favorite summer looks so far! This will be part of a new series every few months called Season Outfits Roundup. Every few months I will share different outfits I’m wearing for work or play or anything in between.

Most of these are work outfits/professional dresses for this roundup. But, I think between the style and the colors they can be worn for graduation parties, church, cocktail parties, etc. I have linked some of the dresses that I could find online, others I bought last season.

Outfit Number 1: I got this dress from Amazon. The brand is Musol. The fabric is polyester and spandex. I love the light lavender color. I think it could work great for spring or summer. The fabric is lightweight and it stretches to conform to any body type. I also love that its machine washable and fits true to size.

Full length dress.

I wore silver jewelry as accents and then pair of black pumps from Kelly and Katie.

Close up of the neckline and jewelry and makeup.

Outfit Number 2: For another work dress, this royal blue pops for summer. I got this dress from Ross last fall on the clearance rack and I couldn’t wait to wear it this summer. It’s actually a Calvin Klein and it’s all polyester, which is my favorite material/brand to wear at work. I also have the dress in a different style and color but same material because I loved the feel so much. I love the top/sleeves of the royal blue dress, I think that makes it a bit different and stand out. You DO need to dry clean this dress. It fits true to size. I decided once again to wear my black pumps from Kelly and Katie with silver jewelry again.

The full dress.
Same material but different style and color. I got this from Marshalls.

Outfit Number 3: I love a light blue for summer. I loved the color so much I got it in a longer sleeve dress too. I’ll share that one in the fall. I also got this dress from Amazon. The brand is MUXXN. This dress is perfect for spring and summer weather. The neckline is my favorite too. I like the uneven scope. You DO need to dry clean this dress as well. The material is a mix of Rayon, Cotton, and Spandex, so it’s a more stretchy material if that makes sense. I have this same fabric in an orange dress which I really like.

Full length of the dress
Close up of neckline and jewelry.
Different color and style but same material, purchased through Amazon
Again different style and color but same material. Also purchased through Amazon.

Outfit Number 4: Sometimes, you just want to throw on an easy dress while still looking professional and this does the trick. It’s both cotton and polyester. This is also an Amazon purchase. The brand is VFShow. I love the bold colors on the top of the blue, white and black. I like the soft material and the cuffed sleeves. You can throw this in the washer and dryer which makes clean-up even easier!

Outfit Number 5: I wouldn’t consider this last look as work look. I think this would be better for dinner and drinks out or maybe a picnic. I got this top from Marshall’s last summer and I love the soft pink color. The cross over tie is a fun twist on the top too. It’s also very flowy and light weight which is a win for summer. I got the capris from American Eagle, but I have worn white dress pants to dress the outfit up. To dress it down, you can wear sandals or sneakers, to dress it up I would recommend wearing heels.

That’s a roundup of some outfits I’ve been wearing this summer for work and play. I wear a lot more work clothes compared to play clothes haha! Amazon has been a great place for deal and fun colors and styles of dresses. I often have luck at Marshall’s, T.J.Maxx and Ross‘ too! Where are your favorite places to shop?!

Categories
Currently

Currently #19

Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! If I had to describe this month in one word it would be rain. We had so much rain, when we finally got our first day of sunshine, I couldn’t be happier. I’m all for a rainy day here or there but not for a month of summer. But the good news is we have had plenty of sunny days since then. Here’s a look into my life this past month.

What I’m up to: I’ve been doing a lot of indoor activities and seeing lots of family and friends. I saw family over the Fourth of July which was great. I also went to my high school reunion with some friends that I’m still close with. I also saw some college friends too. It was a busy month, but I was so happy to do so many things and see so many people. I also took on a new role at work, it’s been fun to learn new things!

Behind the scene at work

What I’m wearing: I got some new work dresses from Amazon. I can’t wait to show you them soon in. post in a few weeks! For days off, I have been wearing lots of shorts and tee shirt sets and of course a few easy throw on dresses. Here’s my past posts on summer looks and vacation looks.

One of my Amazon purchases!

What I’m reading: I finished The Bookstore on the Beach. It was definitely a fun and summer read. It was a lot deeper than I thought, there was a lot of challenging issues that were tackled. I really liked how there was a lot about the relationships between mothers and their daughters. Speaking of women, our book club book for this month was called The Secret Lives of the First Ladies. It was a fun historical read. The writing was very modern and light. It almost felt as if you were having conversations with them. I learned a lot about the wives of the men who helped run our country. It also was interesting to see how much these women endured through their lives. I’m currently reading One Summer in Paris, I just started but it’s already looking to be a great read. 

What I’m Watching: Before you ask, yes, I am still watching Offspring, butttttt I’m on the final season! So hopefully this is the last time you read about it. But in all seriousness, it’s been a wonderful show. I’m so glad it was recommended to me. It’s a great show all about family dynamics and all the things they go through. It’s been a perfect show to watch in the spring and summer. Season 2 of Lupin was so good! I loved the ending. It felt like the first episode. It’s a must watch if you haven’t seen it yet. I also am catching up on Virgin River. It’s such a cute and classic Hallmark-y show on Netflix. It’s been such a light summer show. Definitely recommend if you are looking for a summer show. 

What I’m Loving: I’ve been loving the simple things. With all the rain these past few weeks, I’ve loved taking time to read more, curl up and light a candle or watch movies or tv shows. But when the rain breaks, I love getting out for a walk or just sitting outside. Plus, nothing says summer like some fresh flowers or an ice cream cone! Taking summer adventures have been fun too!

Heading to the Botanical Gardens in Cleveland has been a fun summer adventure
Another shot of the botanical gardens

What Inspires Me: I’m inspired by all the green after the rain. Everything looks so much more alive after a storm. I’ve also been inspired by supporting more local spots for meals and treats. It’s been so nice to see the community out and about more this summer and enjoying food at home!

Enjoying a summer brunch outside

What I accomplished: I’ve loved being able to see so many friends and family this past month. That has been a huge accomplishment. I’ve also gotten adjusted to my new routine and schedule which has made life much easier. 

Goals Accomplished from Last Month I got to celebrate the Fourth of July after work with family and friends. From yummy food, to fireworks, and seeing people. It was one of my favorite days of the year. I’m also getting lots of things done on my summer to do list.

Fireworks on the Fourth
My little pup getting in the Independence Day spirit!

Goals for the New Month: Enjoy the last month of summer! Luckily, I don’t have to go back to school but my siblings will. It’s been so nice to have another summer home with them. I can’t wait for more time outside and in the sun and continuing to see family and friends

A tasty meal outside supporting a local spot is my idea of a perfect time!

That’s a look into my life this month. What things have you been doing this past month. Let me know!

Categories
Let's Get Cooking

Summer Pasta Salads and Appetizers

Hello all! Happy Wednesday! I hope you are all having a great week! I hate to say it but I have been slipping on making a new meal once a week. It’s definitely been harder to make it happen in the summer with more family time and a more relaxed family schedule. We sometimes eat later or go out more. I’m looking forward to getting back to cooking in the fall. 

I have still made a few recipes this summer, some of which are staples in my home.

We will start out with my Italian Pasta Salad. I think we got this recipe on a box years ago. We tried it and loved it and haven’t looked back.

My favorite summer pasta salad.

Here’s what you need and how to make it.

What you Need:

Rotini Pasta (or your favorite kind of pasta)

Italian Dressing

Cherry Tomatoes

Mozzarella Cheese Balls

Sliced Cucumber

Steps:

  1. In a pot, boil water to cook pasta. (I change the amount of pasta I use depending on who I’m cooking for and how many servings I need.)
  2. Drain water and then put pasta in large serving bowl.
  3. Slice cucumber and then add cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella, to pasta.
  4. Stir in all the ingredients and drizzle Italian dressing.
  5. Put in fridge to chill until ready to serve.

*If you plan on saving and serving again, make sure to add more Italian dressing

If pasta isn’t you choice, maybe you like to snack on chips and salsa.

When we went on vacation, we had a great shrimp cocktail sauce salsa. It was full of so much flavor. 

Appetizer night

Here’s an idea of how I’ve made this tasty dish.

What you Need:

Cocktail sauce

Salsa (I like a peach salsa or a medium hot salsa)

Baby Shrimp (can be frozen or in a can)

Steps:

  1. In a bowl mix half of the cocktail shrimp sauce and half of the salsa in a bowl
  2. Mix in the baby shrimp and then chill until you are ready to serve.
  3. Serve with tortilla chips or pita chips.

*If you aren’t a big fan of mixing half of each sauce you can change your parts to ¼ of one and ¾ of another. 

Also pictured is brie cheese with raspberry sauce. I like to cook the cheese and add the sauce at the end, it’s full of flavor and filling too.

I like to enjoy it with bread or crackers.

All of these recipes are super easy for entertaining in the summer and are easy to throw together. 

What are some of your favorite snacks to serve and share.

Drop them below!!

Categories
Fashion

Vacation Looks

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

Last week, I shared my family’s trip to Hershey…most of the photos consisted of places we visited and the food I enjoyed…I wasn’t the best blogger on vacation haha. But I did manage to get a few shots of a few of my outfits to show what I wore on vacation.

It was a mix of casual/play clothes and a few dresses for dinner or walking around. Here’s a look at what I wore and where I got it from.

On our first full day I wore this outfit for mini golf and the park at night.

I got this graphic tee that says “Ciao Bella” from Gap in the spring and this trip was the first time I got to wear it. I love the soft material and since it’s white it can be worn with any solid pair of shorts, from pink, to blue, even white!

I decided to wear this shirt with blue eyelet shorts that I got from Old Navy. I also have them in white too, which I love! When I find something I love, I have no problem buying it in other colors.

In the morning, it was cool to start the day so I wore my jean jacket to keep me warm. My jean jacket is from Old Navy too!

I finished the look off with a pair of Nike sneakers.

Here’s a look with the same outfit with the jean jacket.

One of the night’s we went out to dinner on the property of the hotel. I got this dress last summer when we went away for a few days. I bought it from Old Navy. I love the bright colors and the island feel the dress gives.

Out to dinner outfit

My shoes are my favorite go-to nude wedges. I love to wear them dressing up sundresses or with a pair of capris and a blouse. I got them a few years ago from DSW.

The bright colors scream summer, it’s a light t-shirt dress, so the material is super soft too.

It was a bit chilly when we went out to dinner so I brought my jean jacket along.

Here’s how the outfit looks with the jean jacket. Since the dress is pattern, the solid jean jacket worked well.

Another night we went out to dinner and we dressed up a bit more. I got this pink dress pre-Covid so I couldn’t wait for an opportunity to wear it.

Here’s a look at the front

I got it from Marshall’s and there’s so many things that make it a great dress. First, the bright pink is perfect for summer. It’s a thinner material which makes it breathable in the summer months. It can be dressed up or down. I wore it with wedges out to dinner but I have also worn it to a best friend’s bridal shower for a more formal occasion. I also think this could work as a dress to wear at a wedding. I love the style, with the high neck and the buttons down the back is super classy.

And a look at the back

These were just a few looks from my vacation that I loved. I obviously wore more outfits out to the park and to dinner but these were some new looks and my favorites.

I also like to bring clothes that are staples that can be worn with different outfits. For example, bringing a jean jacket and wedges that can be worn with multiple outfits. It saves room in your suitcase and it allows you to be creative with your outfits.

What have been your go-to outfits for summer so far? What stores are you having luck at? Let me know below! Have the best rest of your week!

Categories
Travel

Our Family Trip

Hello al! Happy July!

This week has been a whirlwind, I started a new role at work, celebrated the Fourth of July with my family and got to see some friends too. It was the best weekend.

Last month, I got away with my family for a few days. One of my favorite family traditions and spots to visit is Hershey, PA. My family and I have been going to the sweetest place on Earth for over 20 years. We hit the park, go to some local sports and then relax. It’s always a fun place to get away too. It was so great to get some family time and get away and I wanted to share some snapshots of our time away. 

I have to warn you, looking back, I didn’t take many pictures and most of them are of food…ooopppsss….

Our dinner at State College during our first night while heading to Hershey. I had a fantastic Lobster Mac and Cheese..yum!
Our first full day, we started the morning off playing mini golf in Harrisburg. This was our view…it was beautiful.
Once we arrived in Hershey, we got some snacks and treats…the chocolate gelato was to die for.
We checked in our hotel and got settled in and then went to the park at night.
After the park, we went to dinner and I got a delicious pasta and bolognese sauce.
We all split desserts, from carrot cake, to chocolate mousse, and a salted brownie. It was all divine.
The next day we hit the ground running for a day at the park. We spent the morning going on lots of rides, big and small.
We stopped for lunch and some ice cream! Yum!
We checked out some new stores and attractions too.
After more rides, we went back to the hotel for a walk before dinner.
I ate a garden salad with chicken for dinner. It was so fresh after a hot day outside.
Once again, we all split this for dessert. It was a heavenly chocolate milkshake with lots of toppings.
The next day we were up early for our final day at the park. Here’s a look at one of the rides.
We rode rides all day and then stopped for ice cream after. Look at all the options. There were so many things to try.
I got a strawberry ice cream with lots of candies.
After stopping for a treat, we got pizza and did some shopping and then it was time for another walk and dinner.
We then had dinner, I ate a light salad, which tasted great after all the sugar haha!
We finished the night off with one more walk.
We started our final day with breakfast and then some time by the pool before packing up to head home.
After a long drive back, I unpacked and started to use my new chocolate scented candle. YUM!

That’s a bit of a recap of my few days away. Lots of family time, time outside, good meals and sweets. Looking back, I wish I took more photos, but at the same time, I’m so glad I was able to enjoy myself and be in the moment and have fun. Next week, I’ll have a post all about some of my outfits I wore on vacation, a few casual outfits, a few dresses, but lots of fun looks. Be sure to keep an eye out for it next week.

Until then, have a great rest of your week and weekend!

Categories
Currently

Currently #18

Hey guys! Happy Wednesday! I can’t believe we are at the end of JUNE!!! Where has the month gone??  These past few weeks have been packed with fun, family time, and lots of fresh food. YUM! I have so much to share with you. Let’s get started!

What I’m up to: I’ve been marking a lot of things off my summer to do list. From seeing friends, doing family activities and going to my favorite summer spots. From ice cream dates, to our family vacation and end of the school year traditions. June has been packed, but so fun. 

Summer smores and bonfires go hand and hand

What I’m wearing: I did a post a few weeks back about some of my favorite summer outfits. You can find it here. We went on vacation last week and I will have a post about what I wore on vacation in the coming weeks. For work days, it’s been lots of sleeveless dresses. For off days it was been t-shirt dresses and short sets. Super easy to put together and comfortable for being outside. 

Here’s one of the dresses I wore!

What I’m reading: I’ve been on the fiction train when it comes to books. Some of my favorite reads have been about travel, friendship and love. No surprise there…haha. I like to really escape. I just finished The Paris Wedding for our book club…it was so good. It told the story of a girl who goes to her ex’s wedding in Paris. I love the description of Paris and reading about what happens when these ex’s are reunited. I’m currently working on The Bookstore at the Beach. It’s the perfect summer read by the pool or ocean. It’s about three generations of women and the secrets and struggles that they are working on while spending the summer together. I’m only halfway through but I’m loving it so far.

What I’m Watching: If you have been following this blog for a while you know I take forever to watch a show…like for someone who watches a series in a month, it will take me 3 months. That being said, I’m still watching Offspring, which is soooo good. I’m also catching up on season 2 of Lupin on Netflix, again a very good show too! 

What I’m Loving: I’ve been loving the summer weather and spending time outside and making more plans with friends. Now that more people are vaccinated it makes travel and seeing friends and family much easier! Also I’ve been loving all the fresh fruits and veggies that come with summer too. Plus who doesn’t love a summer salad. YUM!

My favorite summer pasta salad. Recipe coming soon!

What Inspires Me: I’m inspired by our return to a sense of normalcy. This summer feels almost like things are back to normal. I’m also inspired by new life with fresh flowers and taking things a bit slower in the summer months too.

Grilling at the beach was something new I tried this summer!

What I accomplished: I am making the most of summer. I’ve also been working on some fun work projects and making plans more plans for summer. We also celebrated my youngest brother graduating from elementary school too which was fun. We had been at the same school with 4 children for 18 years. It was sweet send off.  

Goals Accomplished from Last Month Getting some time away with my family was much needed and so fun! We went to one of our favorite places and I can’t wait to share some pictures soon!! 

Just a taste from our family vacation… 😉

Goals for the New Month: Continuing with my summer bucket list. I can’t wait to see more friends, do my summer activities and relax with family at the end of the day! I’m also starting a new role at my job which I’m super excited about. Also, the Fourth of July is quickly approaching which is a favorite summer event for me too! 

I tried a new local crepe spot this summer…yum!

That’s a recap of my life. Lots of family time, crossing off things from my summer bucket list and enjoying the outdoors…it’s truly the best days of summer. 

Categories
Fabulous living

Summer Adventures…So Far

Hey guys! I know we are only halfway through June but I have spent a lot of time outside and going on some adventures near and far. The weather has been beautiful and I have been taking full advantage.

One of my goals for this summer was to be outside more and I’m definitely accomplishing that.

I wanted to share some of my favorite spots so far. If you are looking for walking destinations or hiking spots this could be a helpful guide for you. If you have some favorite spots to walk or hike, drop them below. I’m always looking for new places.

Here’s a recap of some of my favorite adventures so far…

Geneva State Park in Geneva, Ohio is beautiful. I love the dirt and paved trails. There’s also beaches near by which is perfect for a day long adventure. I travelled there in May and had the best time…just make sure you stay hydrated.
This was one of the creeks I found on the hike, it was a perfect tucked away spot.
Sticking closer to home. There’s a few paved walkways down by the Bayfront in Downtown Erie. I love this view overlooking the Bay and there’s a number of downtown spots for a coffee or meal too!
I love the paved trails at Presque Isle, but I also love some of the dirt one by the wetlands. They are definitely hidden gems in an already beautiful spot.
Another little trail that leads to water at Presque Isle. I love how the land meets the water here!
And after all the hiking and walking, there’s nothing better than a hot dog and an ice cream on the beach…yum!
Summer is just gettin started by I’m already enjoying some summer bonfires. It’s the perfect way to end the night.

My summer has been off to a great start so far and the best part is the season just officially kicked off! I’ll be sharing all my summer bucket list items on an Instagram story so make sure you are following along.

Where are your favorite places to head outside to???

Categories
Fashion

Shopping my Closet

It’s been a while since I’ve done a fashion post. BecauseI have to dress up every day for work, I do a lot of shopping in the store, but I also shop my closet a lot too. I love to mix and match outfits and looks for different functions, events and looks. 

Here’s a few looks that I’m loving right now.

Look number 1

I wear a lot of black. In the fall and winter I have black dresses, tops, pants and skirts. It’s an easy, go-to, color that looks slimming and it’s also super versatile. You can dress it up or down depending on what you are feeling. Even though black is worn more in the winter months, it can be also worn on occasion n the summer which brings me to my look today.

A silk black blouse with black dress pants and a pair of pumps. I’ve had all these pieces in my closet and paired them all together for an outfit for work. The sleeveless blouse is perfect for summer. I got the blouse from Marshalls last summer. The black trousers are great for on the go and busy days, I got mine from Talbots. I chose the pump because they are versatile in all seasons. I’ve had these shoes for years. They are by Kelly and Katie and I got them from DSW. You can wear them with black tights in the winter or with black pants in the summer on those breezy days.

Look number 2

Another classic look is a summer dress. I wear a lot of dresses to work, and I love looks that are bold and bright. This dress was one I picked up late last season and I couldn’t wait to wear it this summer. I love the classic colors of pink, blue, and white. They are softer colors but also speak volumes. It’s a lightweight dress but has the formal feel to it. I got this dress from Ross Dress for Less last year. It’s a hit or miss for Ross for me, sometimes, I find great dresses, other times, I leave empty handed. My best advice is to always keep checking back. I wore this dress with a pair of blue pumps, but you can easily wear a flats, loafers or even sandals to change the look of the outfit. I would suggest wearing a navy blue or white shoe. This would be great to wear for work, a semi-formal occasion or a dinner.

Look number 3

My third and final look is a bright dress that screams summer fun. Once again, I got it late last season and couldn’t wait to wear it in the summer. Besides the bright color and the feel of the dress, the neckline is a favorite of mine. I also got this dress from Marshalls last year and I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it! I think it stands out without being too bold. I wore this dress with a pair of white pumps but you can easily wear sandals or a kitten heel for a different style.

These are three looks that I’m loving this summer. I got them from a variety of affordable places that carry name brand items. These are all more dressed up looks for the summer months. I will have a roundup of casual outfits coming up soon. Until then, what looks are you loving this summer? Let me know below!