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Fabulous living

What I’m Thankful For #4

Every year I like to take time and reflect on the past year and the things I’m thankful for. 

Here’s a look back from year’s past.

2019

2018

2017

2020 has been quite the year and there are so many things to be thankful for. 

First and foremost is my health, I’m so lucky and blessed to have good health this past year. 

I’m also super blessed for my family. This past year, I have been able to move home and get lots of extra family time, living at home during the pandemic also helped a lot too. I got bonus time I missed out on in college and time that I won’t always have when I move out on my own. I’m so lucky my family was healthy this past year. 

Throwback of my family together

My pets. A few weeks back, we lost one of our dogs, Hershey Kiss. It was very sudden and sad to see one of our dogs who has been with us for years pass away, with that being said, I’m so grateful for my other two dogs and the love they bring. 

My sweet Hershey Kiss

My friends. This year was definitely challenging since so many plans and activities were cancelled and I missed out on a lot of time with friends. I was able to spend time with friends socially distant and FaceTime and texted helped immensely. This past year also showed me the importance of maintaining friendships and it’s all about putting in effort. 


My friend Danielle and I
My friends Maddie and Ryan and I

My Job. I am very blessed to have a job that I got to work at through the pandemic. I also have grown and learned a lot during this past. I’m very grateful for co-workers that have turned into mentors and friends and even almost like family. 

My first time working Election night

I’m grateful for the tough days, the ones that I feel like I’m drowning or not doing anything right, because those are the days that I learn the most about myself. 

I’m grateful for the basic needs that I take for granted. I’m thankful for a home with a loving family, food on the table, a car to get to work in. All things that I’m lucky to have that others don’t have.

I’m thankful for my faith, on the good and bad days, I know God is always there for me and he will lead me on the path he has for me. 

I’m grateful for all the little moments and mundane things, from drives to work, walks, laughs, movie nights, baking, family dinners, good night sleeps, going to the gym and so many other little momenta that turn out to be the big ones.

That’s just a peak into my heart this Thanksgiving. What are you thankful for this year?

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Fabulous living

The Last of the Warm Days

Hello everyone! It’s the middle of November, but this past week the weather has been gorgeous! 80 degrees and sunshine in November instead of the snow is a true treat!!!

With that being said, I have been doing my best to get outside for walks and meals and even dressing for the weather! Here’s a look into some of my favorite spots and snap shots of the past week.

Clothes

A few months back, I hit the jackpot with dresses for work. They are perfect for fall weather. A few weeks back I wore this green dress, I can’t wait to wear it more in the winter and it would look great for Christmas!

Green for fall and winter

This purple one is a new favorite for me! I love the style and cut of it. The suede material speaks fall but the short sleeve works great for the warmer days and when it’s chilly, just add a blazer. 

Short sleeve for warmer days
Add a blazer for chillier days

Flowers

Another fall favorite has been fall flowers. Flowers are the easiest way to brighten a day and even on the gloomy days, they can brighten a room.

Seasonal Flowers

Food Spots

The warm weather has led to even more outdoor dining!!!! Here’s a glance at some of my favorite outdoor dining spots especially if you are local!

Federal Hill

I have heard about Federal Hill for years and I finally got to taste it. This was delicious pulled pork and sides and eating outside for a picnic made it even better.

A picnic lunch

Samauri Kitchen

If a smokehouse isn’t for you, then maybe sushi is another option. Samauri had a variety of options from sushi to hibachi, poke bowls and more. We ate on the patio at night and even though it was chilly, they heaters outside made it so comfortable. 

Sushi date

Ellicottville Brewing

If you are looking to take a drive and see all the fall leaves before they fall, then heading up to Ellcottville, New York is the perfect fall option. There are many little shops in their downtown to pop in and out of, but Ellicottville Brewing is a great spot to eat. There is a large patio in the back for outdoor dining with a beautiful backdrop of the mountains behind you as you eat.

Outdoor dining for the win

Walks

I have been loving my fall walks, whether it is for a few hours or just a quick walk, there is nothing better than being outside in warm weather.

That’s just a look into life today and the importance of soaking up warm weather before its snow and cold temperatures for a few months. Enjoy the warm weather while we have it.

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Fabulous living

Apple Recipes

Hello everyone! Happy Wednesday! There’s a lot going on in the world and nation right now, from the Election, the pandemic and the holidays approaching, so with that being said, today, we are talking about none of those things and instead we are talking about apple recipes!!! 

Something fun and something new and something you can do this weekend!

Last week I took a trip and went apple picking and for the past week I have been enjoying all the apples and I have been baking a lot too!

Fun day apple picking

Last week, I baked my apple turnovers. They are so easy and tasty, perfect for a dessert, snack or even a sweet breakfast! Here’s the recipe from when I made it in the past.

Apple Turnovers

I then made some oatmeal apple crisp! It was perfect with some cold vanilla ice cream! I love the warm apples, with the oats and crisp topping. 

You can find the recipe here for the one with an oats topping.

If oats is not your thing, you can find an alternative one here.

Apple crisp with Oats

Lastly, I made a new favorite for the fall! I saw this on Pinterest and I wanted to try it. I love the strong apple taste and the crumb cake like topping, plus they are perfect for a breakfast on the or something sweet after a meal. Here’s therecipe I used from Pinterest. 

Apple Muffins

I have loved all the recipes that I made this past week, but there is nothing that beats a fresh apple. Let me know what recipes you try!! Have a sweet week ahead!

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Currently

Currently #10

Hey hey everyone! October was a month, like between working different schedules, seeing family, and gearing up for a busy few weeks ahead. With that being said, I apologize if this currently is a little boring. But let’s get to it. 

What I’m up to: Lots of work but also filling my free time in with fall activites. This past week I went apple picking and it was so fun and very fall! I’m so glad I got it in before the weather got too cold. 

Fun day apple picking

What I’m wearing: I went on a shopping spree to Marshall’s and T.J. Maxx and got some cute dresses for fall. Check out this green one!!! Perfect for winter and fall weather and the color compliments the weather we are experiencing. 

New green dress for fall

What I’m reading: I decided to try some audio books. I am currently making my way through Mindy Kailing’s book series through Amazon reading. She has a series of books that reflects her life, her family, her work and her background. This is such a fun listen especially when I’m doing things around the house. 

What I’m Watching: I’ve been watching Schitt’s Creek and loving it. I love that the episodes are only 20 minutes and the casting is perfect. It’s the perfect light thing to watch at the end of the day or when I’m getting ready to start the day. 

What I’m Loving: I am loving the fall weather, the changing of the leaves, the crisp air and making my way through my bucket list for fall.

What Inspires Me:  I’ve been lately so inspired by Pinterest. I am loving all the fall and winter boards I’m creating for food, fashion, fun and quotes. It’s been a great creative escape. 

Inspiration

What I accomplished: With work being super busy, I am so happy with getting time to relax and unwind even during the busy days, plus I am loving the ability to relax and unwind and make times for family traditions in the fall too. 

Goals Accomplished from Last Month Despite all the chaos, I have still been able to stay in touch with family and friends with weekly facetime calls and in person dinners. Also, even in all the craziness, I have been able to keep up with my work out routine and stay active too.

Goals for the New Month: Although, this next month will start out busy I am looking forward to planning for the holidays, even though it will be a bit different I am looking forward to all my favorite yearly traditions.

That’s just a recap into life today. Not too exciting but a realistic look into life today. 

Thanks for stopping by! 

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Fabulous living

Keeping Your Energy Up

Hello everyone! I have a different post in mind for today. I don’t know about you but these past few weeks have flown by, mostly due to the fact I have been working a lot, between me filing in for people off, the Election coming up, and my normal work schedule, it has been very busy. I am still loving it but right now this season of life is work and although its busy, I’m learning a lot and my hard work is paying off. Last week, I had the opportunity to anchor and produce my first hour long show, and then two days later, I got to do it again. In those times I realized my hard work was paying off but I still have a lot to learn. That’s something that I love about what I do, every day I am constantly learning and improving. 

With that being said, these past few weeks have been hectic, I have gone from working nights (3 pm – 12 am) to mornings (2 am -10:30 am), this week I am back to nights and weekends, which is my normal shift. 

One question I get asked a lot with my job is keeping up with long days and changing schedules and keeping my energy up. For starters, I don’t drink coffee, and I don’t sleep a lot, haha, that’s something I’m working on. I don’t have a secret, mostly, once I’m up for the day at 6:30, I’m up. I head straight to the gym and then get things done around the house, whether it’s chores, or running errands, or picking up, I eat lunch and then it’s work time for the day/night, I eat dinner at work, so in total I eat two meals a day. After work, I come home and crash around 12:30. 

So, definitely have long days but I’m on the go a lot and doing things so I’m keeping busy but if I sit down or chill then I get tired, so as long as I don’t sit down the energy keeps going, On weekends, it’s a different story since I work 9:30-6:30, so it’s more of a normal schedule. It’s when I work nights is when it gets tricky. 

A few little tips/tricks I do to keep my energy up is by drinking lots of water, I try to drink 60 fluid ounces a day. Whether it’s at the gym, through the morning or at work. I stay very hydrated. 

I also love to start the day at the gym, it gets me up and moving and energized and ready to take on the day and it wakes me up.

I also try to get outside as much as I can whether it’s a walk after the gym or to get the mail, I aim for 30 mins but sometimes it doesn’t happy. 

I also remind myself about giving myself grace. I know easier said than done but reminding myself, “Grace Not Perfection”.

This is just a snapshot of life right now and answering some questions that I have been getting recently. Also, if you have nay tips on keeping your energy up…drop them below!!!

Categories
Fashion

Amazon Clothes Haul

A few months back I did some Amazon clothes shopping, it was in the middle of the pandemic and I needed to refresh my wardrobe, I have heard great things about Amazon clothes so I decided to give it a try for work dresses. I bought five and here are the results.

  • Orange Dress with Sleeves (this isn’t the exact one but it’s the closest I could find, same brandy but different style). Overall, I was happy with the dress, it wasn’t the material I had in mind, it’s a tighter style and fabric. I really liked the softer orange, I think it was a unique color and it looks great on air. I added a black necklace, earrings and shoes just to add another contrasting color.  Like the neck line and the fact it was a longer dress. I wore it both anchoring and reporting so it can be versatile in what you are doing. It does need hand washed or dry cleaned, just as and FYI, but overall it was happy with the purchase and it’s great for spring and summer.
Orange dress from the summer
  • Teal Dress (this is the dress but long sleeved) I love, love, love this dress. Not only is it easy to move in and comfortable, especially on long days but it also looks super fashionable. The color will catch your eye since it’s bright but not too bright. It also shows up great for camera which is a bonus for me! I also really like the tie on the neckline. I have paired it with nude heels, white heels, and black heels. Since the dress is a solid color, it works great for any pair of shoes! This has been a favorite in my summer wardrobe!
Teal dress from the summer
  • Blue and White Dress (this is my dress) I love, love, love this dress. My favorite part is the neckline, I love the collar and the blue and white colors. It is a perfect dress for spring going into summer or summer going into fall. The cotton material makes it comfortable and easy to move around in, especially for days when I am on the go. It washes easily which is a big plus and it fits true to size. Definitely a great purchase!
Blue and white short sleeve dress from the summer
  • Black and White Dress  (this is my dress) I loved my blue and white dress so much I wanted to get in black and white for fall and winter. I love the collar and the fact it’s long sleeved, perfect for fall and winter. I also like that this dress is made from cotton material which makes it easy to wash and clean, plus it’s comfortable for the long days. It worked perfect for fall and I can’t wait to wear it in the winter, plus it adds a little extra compared to just being a simple black dress. 
Black and white dress for the fall/winter
  • Burgunday Dress (this is my dress) I love the color for fall and winter. It is the same tight/latex-ish material as the orange dress. It is not as comfortable as the black and white dress or the blue and white dress. But I do like the color, and the neckline with the bow at the top and the pockets too!! Although, it’s not my favorite dress, I am happy with the color and to have any extra dress.
Burgundy dress again for the fall and winter

Overall, I was very happy with my purchases from Amazon, given that I bought them in quarantine, I was happy with them all, but I do like going to see and pick out clothes instead of online. I just had a lot of luck at Marshall’s and T.J. Maxx so I can’t wait to try those out. 

That’s just a peak into my closet and my latest buys! Where have you been having luck with fall fashion?!

Categories
Fabulous living

Fall Bucket List

Hi everyone!! Happy October!! The leaves are on the ground, the air is crisp, it’s time for long sleeves and layers, plus the holiday season is right around the corner. Although, this holiday season will look different, I am embracing the change and making the best of it. As fall approaches, I love to make a fall bucket list of things I want to accomplish, everything from foods to make, things to do and places to see. These next few weeks are going to be busy for me but I still want to make the best of it and fit in some fun things to do. Here’s a quick list of things I want to do this season:

  • Apple Picking
  • Head to a Pumpkin Patch
  • Enjoy Hot Cider
  • Get Cozy by a Bonfire
  • Enjoy Fall Leaves
  • Break out the Fall Wardrobe
  • Turn on the Fire Place
  • Make Apple Crisp 
  • Still enjoy walks outside with the leaves
  • Learn a new fall recipe 
  • Read more books
  • Celebrate Halloween
  • Enjoy apple cider donuts
  • Live in a grateful mindset
Already made some apple crisp

Now, some of these are easier said than done, but I love making a list of things I want to accomplish to make sure I get them all in. The most important to me is the grateful mindset, I’m hoping that in the busy times, I remember that being grateful is the best way to live a life. 

First glimpse of fall

What are some things you are hoping to accomplish this fall season and what’s one thing you are grateful for this season?

Already made It on a fall walk
Look at the leaves!!!
Categories
Currently

Currently #9

Hi everyone!! Happy Fall!! Can you believe we are finishing up September. I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to summer, but after chilly weather these past few weeks, I am officially ready for fall. I want crisp leaves, hot apple cider, pumpkins, and all the sweaters! As we wrap up another month, it’s time for another Currently. Here’s a look into what’s new this past month. 

What I’m up to: This month started out with all things summer, from Labor day, to days spent outside and end of the season barbecues. But, mid way through it changed from summer to fall fast. I couldn’t believe when it was 45 degrees when I was heading into work..brrrr….but now that fall is here I am ready to embrace it and everything that comes with it.  

What I’m wearing: This part of the year is always so hard when it comes to work clothes, do you look too fall-ish with pants and sweaters or do you freeze with dresses?! It’s such a toss-up, I will be ready for when weather gets consistent, if it ever does? What are some of your go-tos for fall fashion?

Bringing in darker colors for fall for work

What I’m reading: I just finished reading, The Royal We, it was the perfect mix of romance, drama, fairy tale and fun. Although, it took a while to get through it, I was so happy with the ending. The sequel just came out so I know I am going to dig into it soon. I am about to pick up a new book, about the end of summer, perfect timing don’t you think? What are you reading now?

What I’m Watching: I just finished watching Get Organized with The Home Edit on Netflix. As someone who loves to organize, this was my show, I loved that they showed how to organize different spaces in every episode. I love to learn different tips and tricks to make my spaces clutter free and more orderly, plus who doesn’t like a peak into some of your favorite celebrity homes?

What I’m Loving: I am loving the changing of the leaves and seasons, although I was so sad to see summer go, I am already working on a bucket list for fall, it includes, apple picking, pumpkins, scarves, autumn colors, and crisp air. I can’t wait to start celebrating the next few holidays. I am also loving fresh flowers as the seasons change.

End of summer flowers

What Inspires Me: I have been on a Pinterest kick, everything from seasons, quotes, and home décor. Its been a fun escape from social media and it makes me feel a lot more creative too. 

What I accomplished: I have been working on budgeting. I made a lot of headway in saving and organizing my money. One of my goals after college was to live at home and save a lot and I am happy with how I have been doing with it so far. Plus, thanks to the Every Dollar Budget App, I have everything organized in one place and on my phone and I can reference it whenever I need it.

Goals Accomplished from Last Month: I took advantage of the last few weeks of summer and I still want to keep up with that this month. I also got a lot of things done in and out of work, there is nothing better than crossing things off a to-do list. 

Goals for the New Month: I want to make sure I am connecting with friends whether it’s in person or facetime. Putting family and friends first is a huge priority for me. I also want to make sure I am still getting fresh air and exercise in my daily routines. As the weather gets colder and I’m tempted to stay inside more I still want to make sure I am getting out of the house when I can.

I’ve been loving extra cuddle time with my pups

That’s a little look into life this month, nothing too exciting, a lot of work, downtime on days off, time spent with family, staying in touch with friends. Watching some shows, doing some reading, working out and balancing life. I’m excited for fall and what this next season brings! What are you looking forward to?

Categories
Fashion

Favorite Beauty Finds

Hi everyone, happy Wednesday! It has been a while since I’ve done a beauty roundup. With the seasons changing, I figured there would be no better time than to share some of my favorite new beauty finds. Since I started working in news I have tried new products to make sure my hair and makeup last for the whole day. These are a few products that I use every day and they never let me down.

I have always worn primer since working, typically I would wear a clear one from NYX. But I made the switch to Neutrogena Green Primer. I know what you may think, green primer?! Trust me it works for me. I have red tones in my skin complexion, so the green primer counter-acts it and balances it out. It may go on green but after you smooth it out and blend it in, the green is gone and your are left with smoother skin and a blender primer. 

Neutrogena Primer

Speaking of green, I decided to get green concealer as well. Once it again, it counteracts any red blemishes or marks and leads to a smother complexion. It may seem crazy to add double the green to your face and once again this doesn’t work for everyone, but for my skin tone it has been a game changer. You can add a bit more to any problem areas you may have and it blends right in. I use both of these products just for work, on my days off, I go minimal makeup and don’t apply as much product, but for the long days, these products are both game changers.

NYX Concealer

I saw this on Carly’s blog and after she gave great reviews on it, I wanted to give it a try and let me say, I AM OBSESSED. I put this on in the shower daily and my skin is so soft and smooth. I have noticed my skin is less dry too. I also put on body lotion after the shower, but there is nothing better than soft and smooth legs. 

Olay Body Conditioner

Again, another game changer that helps me get through my mornings faster. What I love about this two in one brush is that it brushes your hair while drying it and it gives you great volume. I have only used it a handful of times but I am so happy with the finishes product. This brush works great for on the go mornings or when you don’t want to go out with your hair wet. It is definitely worth the cost and you cn find it online and in stores! 

Revlon Volumizer Brush

These are just my latest favs! What things are you loving this season when it comes to beauty??? Let me know below!!

Categories
Fabulous living

Summer Book Review

As promised, my summer book review. My goals was to read 20 books. Let’s see how I did.

My spring and summer melted together so around May was when I started reading summer books.

–Inspire Your Home by Farah Merhi

I have followed Farah’s Instagram account for years. I love anything fashion and interior design and that’s exactly what Farah’s personal and professional pages are. When she announced she was writing a book I knew I had to get it. It covers all different rooms in her home and how to decorated them all. She also talks about decorating on a budget, for different seasons and different seasons of life. Although, I am still living at home and don’t have my own place yet. I know this will come in handy when I am on my own and decorating my own space. The book is filled with pictures, text and explanations. If you are looking for home inspiration or design help, this is the book for you, plus it doubles as a great coffee table book.

Grade: B

The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey

Since I graduated and have been working, saving and budgeting have been areas that I have wanted to work on. I have been saving money by living at home, but I wanted to be educated on a basic overview of finances. After asking around, Total Money Makeover was recommended time and time again. I decided to give it a try. I found the book to be very informative with lessons when it comes to saving, spending, and getting out of debt. It provided a general idea of finances without getting too deep. I do think it would be a better read for someone who may be struggling to get out of debt, rather I just read it to get a lay of the land when it comes to money.

Grade: B-

The Paris Seamstress by Natasha Lester

I got this book for my birthday back in May and finished it at the end of August. It took me a while to sit down and read it but once I did, I loved it! In one afternoon I finished half of the book. The book takes places in the 1940’s and then in the present day and it goes back and forth between two seamstresses. In the 1940’s, the main focus is about the war and spies and the transition from France to America. In the present day, it’s all about uncovering the past and connecting the pieces. There are love stories found in both the past and present, so it’s hard to choose a favorite. It’s hard to read it during multiple sittings. So, I recommend getting a cup of tea or coffee, sitting down and getting into the world of fashion and love and Paris. 

Grade: A

The Royal We by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan

I have heard about this book a lot from other blogs and I couldn’t wait to try it for myself. It’s modern day Cinderella story with the Royal family. Imagine a mix of Will and Kate and then Harry and Meghan. The heir to throne in England meets an American in college and they fall and in love. The book covers eight years of their life from meeting, dating, breaking up, getting engaged and preparing for a wedding. There’s a lot of characters so you need to pay attention, but I really fell in love with this book. You definitely need to sit down and read it, you can read it in bits and pieces but I enjoyed it even more when I could really sit and enjoy it. I loved all the references to the royals and London, England. I did find myself thinking of the Royals and The Crown a lot as I was reading it. The sequel just came out and I can’t wait to read it. Overall, this was the perfect book to end my summer reading list. 

Grade: A 

I clearly did not get anywhere near my goal of reading 20 books. I thought I would have more time to read before work or on my days off in the summer, but life got very busy. I am hoping to get more reading done in the fall and winter when I am inside more. Overall, I was very happy with the books I did get to read and how they were all very different and unique in their own ways. 

What are some books you read this summer? 

What recommendations do you have for me?