Categories
Fabulous living

My Dream First Job

Hi everyone!! Happy Wednesday! I hope you are all having a great week! Today, I thought I would give you a look into my work life. In college, I brought you into my daily school life, with work, classes, meetings, friends, and things to do. Well, now that college is over, and I’ve been working full time for the past six months, I thought it was time I introduce you to my work life. 

Following graduation, I accepted a job back home as Multimedia journalist at my local news station. For people following for a while, this is the same place where I interned at a few years back. You can read about my summer internship here. So, what does that mean? I’m a reporter, but I do everything. I pitch stories, set up interviews, do the interview, shoot the video, edit it together for a story and then front it on the news at the end of the day. I’ve also helped out doing digital and producing on the weekends as well as trying out some anchoring. It’s a lot, but I love it. I have gotten so much experience in these past six months that I never could have imagined. I have also learned about all the moving parts that go into bringing a newscast to life from start to finish.

On the job

These past six months have been nothing short of exciting. Let’s begin back in December, I started two days before Christmas, worked 12 days straight, we then went straight into winter weather news and coverage, then with spring came the Coronavirus pandemic, so during that time we adapted to a new normal, and with summer came many protests and riots. It has been a whirlwind but I have loved every moment. I have been able to cover stories about schools handling harsh weather, businesses taking on the pandemic whether it’s about closing or reopening, I’ve covered different events, highlighted different families going through their best and worst moments. It has been so rewarding to tell these stories. 

Working on the anchor desk

I have met some incredible people both on stories and in the newsroom. It’s been so rewarding to cover stories in my hometown. I’ve been given the opportunity to learn and work with people that I grew up watching. One of my close friends sent me this side by side comparison which is crazy of how far I have come. 

Crazy how much time can change when you work hard to achieve your dreams

A few months back, my college highlighted different young alumni and they asked to feature me which was an extreme honor. You can see the video highlighting a day in the life here. 

Part of my day in the life video

I have loved every minute of my job, yes, not every day is easy or fun but I have learned so much about myself and this job and my hometown through this job. I can’t wait to see what the next few years bring! 

Covering the morning after riots

Thank you to everyone who has watched and supported me through these first few months. If you are still interested or want to follow along more, you can like or follow my Facebook page for all my stories. 

Have a beautiful week and a wonderful Fourth of July!

Categories
Currently

Currently #6

Hello, hello!!

Happy Wednesday! I was off of work for a few days which was a great change of pace, and I really disconnected, it was great to relax, see family, and recharge. The only downside is that I ran behind on some blog work, so my life update post won’t be coming until next week, it will be worth the wait. In the meantime, I figured it was time for a “Currently” post and give you a look into life today. 

What I’m up to: Summer is in full swing, I have been trying to get outside every day for a bit whether it’s for a walk, reading, or relaxing. I’ve been trying to soak up summer between work. I’ve been loving keeping the family summer traditions alive while working. 

What I’m wearing: Give me all the dresses!!! Now that more places are opening up, I’ve been doing some more shopping. Marshalls and T.J. Maxx were great places to start looking. If you need some inspiration about work clothes, you can check out my blog post from last week, here! 

What I’m reading: I’ve been adding some new books to my reading list, I’m finishing up a book on interior design and I just started a fiction book called, The Paris Seamstress, a full book review is coming soon but it’s all about a Paris seamstress trying to make a name for herself during World War II, she must go through trials and tribulations to take care of herself while also following her dream. I’m halfway through it and loving it. 

What I’m Watching: I’m making my way through 30 Rock and it has been such a fun and light show to watch to have in the background or watch with little time. I also got hooked on Selling Sunset on Netflix, not only are the house gorgeous, but who doesn’t love a little reality tv, there’s drama, there’s laughs, and there’s gorgeous homes. It’s been something fun to break up the days.

What I’m Loving: I’m loving the summer weather and sunshine. One of my summer goals was to get outside 3-4 days a week and I have been doing really well with it so far. Being outside has boosted my mood and breaks up the work or home days. 

What Inspires Me: I have really been on a role of being  present, I’ve been inspired by the little things in life, like burning a candle while I work, having more windows open, taking time to read every day. These little moments bring me so much joy.

What I accomplished: I’ve been really happy with how I have been keeping up with friends, whether it’s through weekly facetime calls, going out to eat, or going on walks, making those relationships a pritority have been so helpful and really adds to the balance or work, family and friends.  

Goals Accomplished from Last Month: I have done a really good job at finding a great balance for this season of life, being productive, while also relaxing, spending time with family and outside. I often feel that we are pulled in so many directions or have different expectations placed on us whether its work, family, fitness, being healthy, taking time for ourselves, I love being organized so having a to do list every day helps me accomplish my goals while also have that balance.  

Goals for the New Month: I can’t wait for more things to reopen, I’m getting a long overdue haircut next week…I have never been so excited to get an appointment, also, gyms are getting reopened. I have tried to stay active at home, but there is nothing like being back in the gym. I can’t wait to get back. 

Categories
Fashion

Three Looks for Work in the Summer

Hi friends!!! Happy Wednesday! I’m off of work for the work for a much needed break to reset and recharge. It has been so nice to change up the pace and enjoy a week of summer. 

But next week, it’s back to reality, which means back to work. Since I have started to work full time, one of the things I’ve had to do is do some shopping for more professional clothes but also continue to update my wardrobe by mixing and matching outfits. I order several new dresses from Amazon, so be prepared for an Amazon Haul post coming soon!

Until then, I wanted to share three outfits for work for the summer, one is super professional, one is summer dress chic and the other is more work for on the go.

Let’s get to the most professional/ business casual.

This look is perfect for an interview or working in an office.

I wanted something that was neutral and simple and that’s exactly what I got when it came to picking out this outfit.

I first started with this skirt, I got it from Marshall’s. I love how it is a pencil skirt and can be worn with a suit or just by itself. 

I decided to add a dark blouse as my top. I got it from Francesca’s Boutique, as a summer blouse but I have found many more uses and ways to wear it through the years. Although, it is sleeveless, I added a blazer to match it. Although, different opposite colors, the black and the light gray skirt complement one another very well. 

As, I mentioned above, I wore my gray blazer as a finishing touch. I got this blazer from Marshall’s as well, a few years back. Although, the blazer and the skirt are not a matching set, the interior of the blazer which is seen when cuffed is almost a perfect match to the skirt and the black top ties the whole outfit together.

These shoes are my new favorite pair for the spring/summer/fall. I loved them so much I got them both in black and nude, they are Kelly and Katie from DSW. They are comfortable and I love the heel, not too high but reasonable. 

I matched the outfit with my work bag from Michael Kors, now this outfit may not be for everyone’s work place, but it’s perfect for interviews or business meetings.

The next outfit is another one for the work place, professional but with more color. 

I got this dress from Land’s End, there are so many things I like about this outfit. First, the color, I love how blue stands out. It’s a pop of color but it’s not too overwhelming. The next thing I love about it, is the cut and style. It is a straight cut dress, but you can move in it, it’s not super restricting, also it has pockets!!!!

Lastly, I really like the material, it is string and durable. 

I matched the dress with a pair of blue pumps from DSW as well. 

I wear a lot of navy, so these get a lot of wear in the spring and summer months.

Onto the last outfit, this outfit is more on the go but still professional, some days I’m working in an office and other days I’m not, it all depends. 

For the days I’m not in an office, this is a great outfit on the go. 

I got these pants from the Limited, I love how they are a straight cut pant and the navy makes them easy to with anything. Any print, bold or neutral color can go with it.

I got this pink top from Talbots, I really like the pop of summery color, plus it matches perfectly with the pink sweater from Gap. The blue and pink compliment each other very well. And to no one’s surprise, I got these shoes from DSW…surprise! Haha! 

I also wanted to show how well my lunch tote matches my outfit. 

Those are three separate outfits for work, from business professional, to sundress chic and on the go. 

Stay tuned for more summer work outfits and next week, I have a supersized life update post! Be sure to check back next Wednesday for it!

See you then!

Categories
Fabulous living

Summer To Do List

Hi all! Happy Wednesday! With summer underway, I always take the time at the start of the season to come up with a list of things I want to accomplish. In years past, I have a deadline with school starting back to get things done, but now with working, I don’t have a deadline with going back to school.

I like creating lists of things I want to do to hold myself accountable to do things and also to give myself ideas when I’m looking to change things up in my daily routines.

  1. Read 20 Books (I’ve read 18 last summer so I want to up my books for this summer)
  2. Finish 30 Rock (I keep starting it but never finish it)
  3. Be outside for 3-4 days a week (whether its swimming, walking, or running)
  4. Spend 30 minutes outside a day (Eating, reading, doing work, I want more sunshine)
  5. Go someplace new
  6. Catch up with college friends (lots of plans have gotten changed due to Coronavirus, so I’m hoping to start rescheduling things)
  7. See high school friends (hoping to make more time for friends near and far)
  8. Entertain friends at home (I love entertaining so I’m hoping to have more friends over)
  9. Wine Tasting (my friends and I have talked about doing this for ages, hoping we can finally make it happen this summer)
  10. Beach Day
  11. Dinner by the water (I love living by the water and having dinner by it is so nice)
  12. Kayaking (I love being on the water in any form)
  13. Working out (I want to keep being consistent with it)
  14. Pool Day
  15. Bonfire
  16. Day Trips
  17. Really take time to slow down ( I took the time during Coronavirus to slow down and I want to continue to do that)
  18. Summer restaurants (I have a few favorite seasonal places that I can’t wait to get back to)
  19. Ice Cream shops
  20. Take advantage of local spots and free activities

This is just a start on my to do list and who knows what the summer holds…let the adventure begin!

Categories
Fabulous living

Thoughts During A Pandemic

 These past few months have been filled with so many unknowns, but in any situation, I always look for the silver linings, so even when the world stopped and got turned upside down, I still wanted to find the good in it. I’ve learned a lot about myself during these past few weeks and months. 

One of the things that have really helped me every day is to simply put things in perspective and maintain a grateful and positive attitude through it all, yes, days were hard and challenging, but taking it one day at a time, helped me so much. Another things that has helped me as been journaling, not just daily but also a separate journal about life and working through a pandemic, I remember what I’m feeling every day, but years from now, will I? Keeping all my notes and feelings in one spot hase been so helpful too!

I was lucky enough to work through the pandemic, although days were filled with uncertainty, I was so fortunate to still be able to work. Another thing I was super grateful for was the fact I was with my family the entire time, I got bonus time with my parents and siblings as they worked and learned from home. I was able to see them before and after work, have quality time to be together that I may not have gotten in the past. Another positive in a dark situation. 

What really stands out to me during the pandemic, was the importance of truly slowing down. During college, especially during my senior year, I felt spread too thin and overwhelmed with commitments, I have gotten into a much better routine since working but this pandemic, truly showed me that you don’t have to have a full schedule every single day and this is something I want to adapt in my life more this summer. Yes, more things are reopening and we are entering into a new normal but I want to still continue with slower days when I can. At the beginning of this year, I read, When Less Becomes More by Emily Ley, you can read the review here. One of the biggest takeaways from the book was living a slower and more meaningful life and the joy and beauty in the simple things. I have truly found the beauty in the simple things and the importance of taking it slow. I have also learned to not take things for granted, like just going into a store to browse, you can’t do that anymore. I also found you don’t have to be busy all the time or doing things all the time to be happy and enjoy life. 

Taking it one day at a time and realizing that sometimes, the simple things in life are better.

What have your learned about yourself through the pandemic? How has your outlook on life changed?

Categories
Fabulous living

22 Lessons for this Past Year

Hey guys! I’m a reflective person, so it’s no surprise that whenever my birthday rolls around, I always use this time to reflect on this past year and how far I’ve come. Since I will be turning 22 on Friday, I wanted to take the time to look back on this past year. 21 has been such a big and transformative year for me. From kicking off my senior summer and senior year of college and celebrating all those lasts, to graduating, starting my dream first job, moving home, and meeting some incredible people, it has been a wonderful year with so much growth. 

Here are 22 things I’ve learned this past year:

  1. Treasure the slow and calm times and embrace the chaos.
  2. Make the most of any situation.
  3. Know the confusion and the chaos will make sense later.
  4. If you have to travel for work, see as many friends as you can.
  5. Enjoy college, it will be over fast.
  6. Make every moment a memory.
  7. Be present where you are 
  8. Take the time to thank the people who helped you get to where you are.
  9. Shoot you shot.
  10. Take time to get your Closure Before you Move on
  11. Now, that Goodbyes don’t last forever
  12. Be open to New Beginnings
  13. Jump with Two Feet in
  14. Take Every Opportunity Available
  15. Hard Work Does Pay off
  16. Look for the good in Every Day and use every day as a learning opportunity
  17. Be nice to everyone, you never know when you will meet them again
  18. A good night’s sleep does wonders 
  19. The little moments end up being the most important ones
  20. Appreciate those you have in your life
  21. Recognize how far you have come 
  22. When in doubt, keep smiling

This past year was a year of learning, growth, change and happiness. I’ve learned so much about myself, my goals, and the people in my life. 21 was a game changer of a year and I can’t wait to see what 22 brings!

Categories
Currently

Currently #5

Hey, hey! Happy Wednesday! I can’t believe we are almost to June. The weather is getting warmer, I’m spending more time outside and life is slowly getting back to a new normal. This past month has been so filled with so many new and exciting things, I can’t wait to share what I’ve been up to and what’s currently going on in my life.

What I’m up to: Besides work, I have been spending more time outside, whether it’s going for walks or spending time by the pool, the weather is warmer and it’s good to get a change of pace and scenery.  

What I’m wearing: I’ve been breaking out all the blues, pinks and greens. Here’s one of my latest outfits, I’ve worn to work recently. I wanted something both professional but also versatile, so I can handle whatever the day brings. I love the combination of green and blue. I got these dress pants from The Limited. I got this green sweater from Gap. My lunchbox (!!!) matches my outfit which I didn’t even plan. I love the bright colors and how the solid colors coordinate so well.

What I’m reading: May was a great month of reading for me. I read, “In Five Years”, I saw it on four different blogs and I knew that I had to read it. I finished it in 3 sittings, it was so good. Without giving too much away, it tells the story of a young, driven, hard working professional in New York City, she has her life together, from a great job, loving boyfriend, dream apartment, however, when she has a premonition about her future, it causes her to reevaluate her life. It’s a story about friendship, love, relationships, and following your dreams. I would definitely recommend it for anyone looking to get lost in a book for a few hours. 

What I’m Watching: Last fall I read, Little Fires Everywhere, you can read my review of it here, after reading the book I couldn’t wait to watch the mini series. I loved seeing faces to the people and story I read about it. There were a few differences between the book and the mini series, like with any adaptations. But overall, I was happy with how it was going from book to screen. The ending in the mini series took me by surprise, if you read/watched it. What were your thoughts?!

What I’m Loving: I’m loving the spring weather, life is slowly getting back to a new normal, I’m looking forward to more time grilling and swimming, hopefully seeing more friends and getting outside more. I’m looking forward to more walks, runs, and family time.  

What Inspires Me: If you know me, you know I am a positive person, who always looks for the good in every day. This quote immediately spoke to me. Mindset is everything especially during in trying times.  

What I accomplished: I’ve continued to focus on leading a healthy lifestyle, by eating healthier and working out more and getting more exercise, I’ve continued to have a more balanced lifestyle. I also just finished a big project at work which I was very happy with the outcome. 

Goals Accomplished from Last Month: I was very happy with getting some projects and presents purchased and sent, I had many friends who graduated from college and I loved sending them a little something to let them know I was thinking of them. I’ve also done a good job of getting more routine things done, (like cleaning my car weekly, doing more sanitizing of things, and just continuing with little things daily to make my weeks go more soundly.  

Goals for the New Month: This month was great for getting things done and being productive. I’m looking forward to hopefully seeing some friends and family in June. Hoping more rules get lifted so we can get to a more normal and we can enjoy some of the summer season. 

This was a great wrap up of May, I don’t know about you, but this month has flown. I have a few things planned for next week which I’m looking forward to, and then I’m eager to welcome a new month.

Have a beautiful week and Memorial Day weekend. 

Categories
Fabulous living

THREE Years of Blogging

Hey hey everyone! This weekend marks three years of blogging!!! Where has the time gone? I started this blog as creative escape and something to do during my downtime and boy has it turned into something else. It has given a creative escape, but it’s held me accountable, it’s helped me become a stronger writer, it’s allowed me to be more open, and it’s led me to lead a more reflective life.

I started this blog after my first year of college and now I’m in almost five months into working my first job. SO much has changed, from meeting new people, MANY looks of the day, travel journals, book reviews, semester recaps, and now currentlys. It’s been incredible to see how I have grown and changed. Although, my posts have shifted a bit since I started working, it has opened up new doors and opportunities to write about different things. My little blog corner has also given me the opportunity to connect with people in ways I didn’t think it was possible. It’s been cool to see what I was feeling during my junior year of college compared to what I am feeling now. It’s been fascinating and a good way to appreciate everything in life especially in these uncertain times. 

Now, to round up some of my favorite blog posts:

I love any post where I talk about travel so both of my travel posts about Rome are included:

Spring Break Trip to Rome, Italy Part 1
Spring Break Trip to Rome, Italy Part 2

I love when I can share some of my favorite blogs with you:

My Favorite Blogs

It was a joy to share my college experience with you all:

Thank You Saint Vincent College

I love reading and sharing my love of reading on here has held me accountable as well as gives me suggestions of new things to read:

Summer Book Review

I have loved my new series Currently, it’s the perfect Monthly Update, new one coming next week, until then, here’s April’s!!

Currently #4

There have been SO many look of the day’s and I’m excited to be bringing them back. But here’s one of my favorite ones:

Look of the Day #113

Lastly, I love any post where I talk about the good in every day:

Finding the Good in Everyday

This is just a wrap up of some of my favorite posts or topics. I can’t wait to see what this new year of blogging brings, thank you to everyone who have followed me or read my posts, whether you have been reading since I started 3 years ago or just last month. THANK YOU! 

Let’s see what this next year has in store!

Categories
Fitness

Staying Active While Staying Home

Hey everyone. Happy May!!! Anyone else get the feeling new things are coming. Every month brings a new mentality and new possibilities, I think that’s the case for this new month and new season. Although, we are heading into a new normal, I know new things are coming. 

One thing, I know myself along with others have been struggling with during these weeks or even months off have been feeling active or getting a good workout in. 

With the warmer weather, I have been trying to get outside for more walks.  Not only does it get you out of the house, but it gives you fresh air, and you are changing up scenery. Plus, getting sunshine and logging a few miles does wonders. I shoot for one to two walks a week, sometimes we get both, others it’s just one, but the point is, I’m still putting my health and wellness first. 

Another way I have been taking care of myself has been at home workouts. Although, I do miss my gym and my coaches and routine there, I’ve been able to stay on track with at home workouts from my gym. It keeps me on track, feeling, active and getting in a quick sweat session before work. It’s easy because I can just head outside of in the basement to get a quick workout in. I like that I can stay active when I’m not working.

Even though, it will be a while before things get back to normal or we get to a new normal, I’m doing what I can to stick to a routine and taking care of myself too. 

I’m looking forward to more days out in the sun, whether it’s to read, go for a walk, run, or just sit. 
We are still in uncertain times, but focusing on the good, the new beginnings or find the sunshine in any situation. 

I hope this upcoming week and month brings new beginnings and you find more light in your days!

Categories
Currently

Currently #4

Hey hey! Can you believe we are at the last Wednesday of the month?! April literally flew by, a good month but another one in limbo, just a mix of work and home. Nothing too exciting but a good month, none the less.

What I’m up to: Work has been the only reason I’m leaving my house, haha. The last time I physically went in a store was when I was visiting friends in Pittsburgh at the start of March. It’s been really nice to not have as many commitments and just focus on work and family time. It truly puts things in perspective of what’s important. 

What I’m wearing: I’ve been doing my best to wear bright colors or spring colors or patterns but it has still been hard when it’s still snowing or in the 30’s. It’s definitely been a challenge but I am ready for the warmer months ahead. 

What I’m reading: April was a good month for reading. I finished one book and now I’m onto a new book about interior design, something light and fun and it definitely takes your mind off of things and allows you for an escape. I do love a good book so I’m looking forward to getting into a new book series once things start to reopen. 

What I’m Watching: SO many shows. Haha! I jumped on the Tiger King train, it was definitely an experience. I also started watching 30 Rock for something fun and Evil on CBS from something more serious, plus trying to catch up on movies on Netflix. Reading and movies have bene keeping me busy on my downtime.

What I’m Loving: I’m loving the extra family time at home and the ability to relax and get my priorities  straight. Through this whole pandemic, this has showed me that you don’t need to be super busy all the time to be happy and successful. For me this has made me realize what’s important. 

What Inspires Me: When I finished the series, The Walk last month, this quotes really stood out to me. It made me realize the journey we all have in life and how even when things are thrown our way, like our current situation in the world, we still have a journey to complete and there’s still more to go. 

What I accomplished: This past month I have really tried to get into a healthier lifestyle. From eating better to going for walks outside a few times a week or doing at home workouts, I’m really trying to put myself first when it comes to my lifestyle. 

Goals Accomplished from Last Month: It’s been nice to really not have too full of a calendar. I’ve even had a few days off of work where I relaxed, watched tv, read, even took a nap. It’s the little things that we don’t typically get to do when we are on the go all the time. 

Goals for the New Month: Hopefully, life we start getting back to a new normal. It will be interesting to see what that looks like. I am also looking forward to more time outside, grilling, walks, being in the sun and starting to enjoy more summer aspects. I’m doing my best to focus on the good during the uncertain times. 

Another currently in the books, just an update about what I’m doing and how this quarantine has really put things in perspective for me and I think others feel the same. I think this pause on life has lead many to re-evaluate things in their lives which could open more opportunities for them. I hope this month brings your more clarity, something to smile about and something to look forward to. Have a great week!