Hi everyone! Happy Tuesday…it’s my LAST, first week of school. These past few weeks have been so busy since I have been back to school, between training, learning, seeing friends, moving into my last college dorm and starting classes, it has been a whirlwind of activities. Am soaking it all up because I know these will be my lasts…last move in weekend, last training, last first day of school. This past Sunday, I took some time to reflect on starting my last semester of college…here’s my thoughts on it…
Senior year…here we GO!
“It’s Sunday, tomorrow is my last first day of school…EVER. It’s weird to think that after tomorrow, I will never have another first day of school. I remember my first day of Kindergarten, high school and college. All big days, and tomorrow is no less a big day.
I have always loved school and going to school. I loved laying out my clothes the night before, buying fresh supplies for the new year, taking the picture outside of our home, and coming home to a special treat from my mom while we shared about our first day. There is just something about the first day that brings me so much JOY and excitement!
I only have one more semester of college. It’s weird to think that by Christmas I will be done with school and being saying goodbye to a place that has been a HUGE part of my life story, a place where I grew, gained confidence, made lifelong friends, and created incredible memories. Thankfully, I still have a few months before I say goodbye and start a new chapter in my life.
So, what does these next few months hold? Lots of classes, homework, reading, studying, working, applying for jobs, spending time with friends, crossing off college bucket lists, doing all the senior things, and celebrating milestones.
This past week, I was at Mass and the priest shared about going all in and immersing yourself in your life and that really resonated with me. These next few months, I am going ALL IN, doing as much as I can, working my hardest, getting involved with my favorite organizations, meeting new friends, stepping out of my comfort zone, and living up my last time as a college student. I have no idea what comes after college, yes, I will be getting a job and working, but it’s exciting to not know where I could end up or what I will be doing. When my friends come back to classes after Christmas, I will be working.
Many people have told me that your years in college will be the best time of your life, and I have to agree, I love the person I have become thanks to the people I met and the opportunities I have done while in college. I have met so many people who have shaped me into the person I am today, and this school will always hold a special place in my heart. I can’t wait to see what these next few months brings…senior year…I’m ALL IN!”
Any Taylor Swift fans out there?! Tomorrow, Taylor Swift is dropping her latest album, Lover. Although, I’m not a die heart Swiftie, I enjoy her music and it has been interesting to see her evolve from her country roots, to 1989, Reputation and now Lover. In honor of her new album, I am showing another way to rock your favorite concert t-shirts.
You may recall, last fall, I showed how you can sport a concert shirt in the fall and winter. You can see that post here. Today, we are switching gears for the summer months.
Last week, I put together this simple but fun-loving outfit. I was hanging out with friends and I wanted to change up my wardrobe a bit. I first started out with the concert t-shirt I got from the Reputation tour last year.
Taylor Swift is the headliner of the outfit
I wanted to dress the outfit up a bit, therefore, I paired the black and white shirt with a crisp white pair of shorts. I got these a few years back from Marshalls, and I love the high waisted look, not to mention how durable they are. I am going to be retiring them soon with Labor Day approaching.
Lastly, to complete the look, I wore my gladiator sandals and black hoops and a top knot to complete the outfit. Throw on a pair of aviator sunglasses and you are good to go!
An outfit good for going out or playing around
Next week, I will be back in classes, so be prepared for all the back to school posts! Enjoy the last few days of summer!
I can’t believe I am writing my summer 2019 recap. This has been a wonderful and packed full summer. When I moved back home in May, I didn’t know what this summer had in store for me. Yes, I knew there would be work, fun, and friends but other than that, I was open to any opportunity that presented itself. I accomplished a lot these past few months, from working at home, working at school, lots of family time, seeing a lot of friends from high school and college, weekend getaways, and trying new things. Let’s take a look back at my summer to do list and see if I accomplished everything.
Get license renewed
Yes, I got this done the first day I was home and was so happy to get it done.
Work/Internship
Yes, I worked at the same job I have been working at since high school and I got a lot f projects accomplished while I was there. I also volunteered for a Campaign this summer and it was interesting to see all the behind the scenes that goes into it.
Make College photo album
Yes, this was such a fun project and I’m glad I have all my pictures in one spot for the future, plus it was cool to look back on all the memories made.
Celebrate 21
Yes, One of the highlights of my summer was celebrating my birthday with all my friends in Pittsburgh, it was so fun to spend the weekend with my people. You can read all about it here.
Celebrating 21 with my girls
See friends from college and high school
Yes, I made a few trips to Pittsburgh for work or to visit friends and it was so good to connect with friends outside of school. I also managed to hang out a lot with my high school friends whether it was weekend trips or fro yo runs.
High school buds
College besties
Portfolio (BLS)
Yes and No, I am still in the process of completing this project for school but it will be done this semester.
Work Study
Yes, I worked a lot for my school and it was great to be kept up to date on what was going on at school and do something I enjoy.
Read 12-15 books
Yes, this was one of my favorite ways to spend the summer. I read a lot and enjoyed unwinding with a good book. You can read my summer book review here!
One of my favorite ways to enjoy the summer
Download pictures to laptop
Yes, another task I wanted to accomplish and I finished it early on in the summer.
Spend time with family
Yes, I got a lot of family time in between family vacations, good meals, and weekend adventures. There is nothing better than quality family time.
Day Trips
Yes, I got in a few day trips to visit friends and work at school for a few days in the summer, one day trips were perfect to do something fun and get work done.
Start Healthier habits
Yes, this summer I snacked a lot less and tried to get outside as much as I could, whether it was for a walk, jog, or even hitting the gym when I could. I was not as consistent with working out as I am in the school year but still felt good about creating healthier habits. You can read about my summer habits here.
I always love going on hikes in the morning or evening
Go to a concert
No, I didn’t get to a concert in the summer, but I have plans for one in September which I am very excited about.
Beach days
Yes, I made it to the beach with my friend Bailey twice, and then spent an afternoon at the beach which was so fun.
ALL the beach vibes!
Family Vacation
Yes, I finished off summer with a family road trip. So fun and many laughs and memories were made.
Much needed getaway
Find a new show to Binge watch
YES, I was obsessed with Outlander this summer. It was such a good show to watch and I became invested in the show fast, I can’t wait for the new season in 2020!
I am still talking about this show
Take more walks outside
Yes, I took more walks in the summer, whether in the woods, the beach or my own backyard. It was so good to get fresh air after working inside all day.
Not only did I spend more time walking outside but I also tried kayaking and loved it
Weekly facetime calls with friends
Yes and no, I didn’t get in weekly facetime calls but my friends and I stayed close by visiting each other and texting every day, plus you know you have a solid relationship when weeks go by and you can pick up from where you left off.
Try something new
Yes, I did a lot of solo traveling this summer so that was definitely a new and rewarding experience that I was so lucky I got to gain more independence in this area.
Try new recipes
Yes, to see some of my favorite recipes you can find my salads here, pizzas here, and snacks here.
From smores
Pizza
and salad
Entertain Friends/family
Yes, I love to help host and entertain, this summer I did quite a bit from having family, friends, or college friends over, whether it was for dinner, a weekend, or just snacks, it’s a lot of work but it pays off in the end.
I love entertaining from the prep, event and satisfaction of a job well done
Do something spontaneous
Yes, although I don’t have an exact time I was spontaneous, there were many times this summer that I stepped out of my comfort zone to try something new.
Be Present
This was huge for me. This summer, I was more present and intentional with what I was doing. Some of my favorite summer moments there are no pictures of because I was in the moment and not on my phone. This was huge for me.
Focusing on the here and now.
Looking back this was a packed full summer filled with new experiences, memories, work and fun. I have grown by trying new things while being present and spending time with those who matter most to me. Although, the school year will be busy, I know I will always have these memories to look back on. Thank you summer 2019, senior year… here we GO!
Hi All! I’m officially back to school. I moved back on Tuesday. It was so good to get away last week for some fun and R&R with my family. Although, I am back to school for work that doesn’t mean the cute summer outfit have to stop. I am loving all the colors this outfit has to offer.
Full outfit
For starters, I love these bright pink shorts I got from Marshalls, they are the perfect length, not too long or short. This bright pink is great to wear with a white tee shirt or blouse for a more dressed up shorts outfit.
I opted for a more casual outfit by pairing my pink shorts with this Simply Southern tee shirt. I love the brand Simply Southern. I have a long sleeve shirt that I wear often in the fall and spring, but this short sleeve top is great in the summer. The front is a plain light blue, but the back has the cutest design, ice cream, summer and happiness are the perfect combination! The light blue and pink are great colors to coordinate.
Up close of the back
I decided to wear a pair of sandals with this outfit, but sneakers or wedges would both compliment the outfit well. Although, I am back on campus, I plan on spending time outside and still enjoying the warm weather.
Hi friends! With summer winding down and school starting back up again I wanted to take this time to share all the books I read this summer and a quick review on them My goal was to read between 12-15…let’s see if I achieved it?!
I had watched Brene’s Netflix special and I loved it. I found it so informative and powerful. After watching it, I wanted to read her previous works. I thoroughly enjoyed Rising Strong, it is all about being vulnerable and opening up to others whether it be in the workplace, at home, or with friends. She also shares personal stories of her being vulnerable in her own life which I loved. There were a lot of valuable lessons in the book and I plan to read more of Brene’s other books. I did find it at times to be a bit heavy and contain a lot information which could be overwhelming, but overall, I found the book to be eye opening and a good read.
I have no shame in admitting I am a fan of Sex and the City, I’ve seen the series and movies and I love the message the shows has about women, friendship, New York, fashion, and love. This book documents everything from the book that inspired the series, the behind the scenes of creating the show, as well as interviews with writers, crew members, and cast members. I love learning all the behind the scenes facts when it comes to my favorite shows. This was a fun and light read and it made me want to rewatch the series again! LOL! For any Sex and the City fan-this is a must read. Fall in love with Carrie Bradshaw all over again!
I loved this book by Tina Fey. I love her as a comedian and find her funny in anything I watch, whether it’s SNL, 30 Rock, or one of the many comedies she has starred in. I found this book to be very light and easy to read. I got it done in two sittings. Fey shares her early childhood, making it into the industry, her time working on SNL and 30 Rock. As I was reading, I found myself laughing to myself about some of the antics she was encountering. I found the book to be very real and relatable. I would recommend it for a beach read or something light between more intense reads. You will find yourself laughing along the way.
After reading one of Brene’s books, I wanted to try and read another. I found this one to be enjoyable and informative. Once again, she shares her vast knowledge and research when it comes to shame and vulnerability. I loved how she shares her personal stories about dealing with shame in her life. I would recommend reading this book before Rising Strong. Overall, I was happy I continued to learn more about the importance of being vulnerable since it is something that I don’t think we talk about enough. I did find it to be a bit heavy with the research so it took some extra time to read and comprehend it. I would definitely recommend it to a friend.
I absolutely loved this book. I finished it in two sittings by the pool after work. I have always been a fan of Reese Witherspoon, I find her so down to Earth and charming. In this books she shares everything she learned from growing up in the south and how it made her into the person she is today. She shares family recipes, tips for decorating, family photos, and gorgeous photos. I learned so much about Reese and how she incorporates her southern roots into her life in California. I also love the layout of the books, she has her favorite recipes mixed in with photos of her home, family, and life down south. I would highly recommend reading this book or evening having it for a coffee table book. It’s bright, colorful, sweet and charming just like Reese is!
This book kept popping up on different blogs I read as well as suggested books. I was intrigued and decided to give it a try. I will be honest with you, it was okay, but I could have definitely bypassed it. Overall, it was funny and had a lot of good one liners and pop culture references which made the book relatable and easy to read. However, I found it to be negative towards dating, love, and relationships. I was hoping it would be more reflective and positive about relationships and dating but I was let down by it. Some things were relatable and resonated with me, but for the most part it was hard to get through it. It was okay but definitely not my favorite…oh well, you win some, you lose some.
I loved this book! It was one of my favorites that I have read this whole year. It tells the story of a young women who reads a book and realizes it’s a book based on her whole life by her childhood best friend and first love. This book goes back and forth between her present day life and the book based on her childhood. She must decide if she wants to track her best friend or leave the past in the past. It’s so well written and sucks you in immediately. Once I started reading it, I couldn’t put it down. I finished in two sittings. I enjoyed it so much I looked into other books by this author. I loved the concept of how one’s first love, maybe one’s only love. I would highly recommend it.
Another favorite book I read this summer. I have heard about The Last Lecture for years but never got around to reading it. Once I started I couldn’t put it down, I finished it in one day. It tells the story of Pausch’s last lecture that he gives before he dies of cancer. He talks about achieving his childhood dreams and what lessons he wants to leave behind to his children, family, friends, and students. I was incredibly moved by this book, I often found myself writing down quotes that I loved. I found this book to be so inspiring and reminded me never to take anything for granted. Highly recommend.
I enjoyed Carlino’s other book so much, I decided to read another one by her and thoroughly enjoyed it as much. This story follows the lives of college lovers and what happens when they see each other after 15 years apart. The book goes back and forth between college life in the past and the present day. It fills in the blanks of what happened in those 15 years apart. I loved the story it told about how special one’s first love is and how time doesn’t mean anything when you truly care about someone. There are laughs, heartfelt moments and a few shockers. I would definitely recommend this book if you are looking for a beach read or something to read before bed. We all could use something light and filled with love in our lives.
I came across this book at the library and was immediately intrigued. It is based off a Facebook Community group. People can go on and post small acts of kindness or love they witnessed or that happened to them. I’m a firm believer in positivity and not focusing on the negative. This book was a collection of many stories from people all over witnessing love and kindness. I read it in two sessions, half by the pool and then the second half inside during a rain storm, both ideal places for good reading! What I enjoyed most about this book was how little acts can make a huge impact on others. Definitely worth the read and your hearts will be moved!
I was really excited for this book going into it, however, it just ended up being okay. I liked the content and reading about Jennings’ life and the stories he covered during his time as a reporter. But, it was hard to get into the book. I liked the way different people who were friends, family, and colleagues of Jennings contributed to the book. I learned a lot about what it means to be a good reporter as well as the impact Jennings made on the world. I found the book to be informative, but I wasn’t changed after reading it. When it comes to books, you win some, you lose some.
This story follows the journey of a young princess who gets left at the altar. Thea must uncover what really happened to her fiancé Christian and who to trust in her royal family. She meets Nick, who also wants to help her find out what happen to her lover, but with his own agenda. I love anything British and Royals so this was the perfect summer read. This book was the perfect mix of romance, mystery, and adventure, all things I look for in a good book. I would definitely recommend it if you are looking for a light and carefree book.
Last summer I read Happily Ali After and I found it funny and an easy read. When I saw this book sitting on the shelf, I knew I wanted to try it. I’m so glad I did. Ali shares personal funny stories about her family, her life, and sweet memories that go along with them. Her topics range from family vacations, her daughters growing up, her girlfriends and her husband. She is real and honest and basically says what everyone is thinking. I finished her book in one weekend. After reading her second book, I feel like I could have a cup of coffee with her and just talk about life and funny stories. Was it the best book I read this summer? No, but It was a fun pool read and I learned more about her than when I started it.
I was recommended this book from Shay Shull of Mix and Match Mama, she always shares her monthly reads and this one stood out to me. It tells the story of a young woman the her guy friends, she ends up falling for one of them and the two of them hook up a few times. When her and her group of guys all try online dating, she ends up getting matched with her best friend who she hooked up. There are some twists and turns but a happy ending. I love how they showed the relationships she has with her the guys but most importantly finding herself through the course of the book. It was such a fun book and you will get sucked in. I finished it on vacation and I couldn’t put it down. I would definitely recommend it. One of my favorites for the summer.
My final book of the summer ended on a positive note. This book stood out to me at the library and I thought there were was no better way to start senior senior year than by being reflective. This book is based on Fred Rogers and is written by the woman who started Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. She talks about being kind to yourself, others, and the world. I’m a firm believer in how a simple act of kindness can change someone’s life. There was also a few references to Brene Brown and the power of vulnerability. I finished this book in two days, and although it wasn’t the best book I read, I thoroughly enjoyed it and was inspired by it.
Grade: B+
Whew, that was a lot of reading and I learned so much from all the stories and genres. I love getting lost in the books and finding new authors. I reached my goal for the summer and although, back to school will be busy I am determined to read more. My top books for the summer are Swear on this Life, The Last Lecture and My Favorite Half-Night Stand.
What books have you read this summer? Any suggestions for fall book reads?
Hi All! This week I have been taking some time off and relaxing with my family before I move back to school next week. It has been so nice to relax and unwind a bit before it’s back to school and the hectic fall schedule.
One of my favorite things to do when I want to change up my wardrobe is to mix and match outfits. I love using pieces that are worn more formally and make them more casual.
You may remember a few years back, I wore this outfit. I really dressed it up with a blouse and heels and wore it to a graduation. Flashforward a few years and I have worn this outfit or variations of it in different ways.
Did someone say throwback Thursday?!
Today’s look of the day is an example of another way I have worn this outfit.
Soaking up the last few weeks of summer
I kept the same skirt that I got from Victoria Beckham’s Collection from Target, a few years ago. I still love the bright color and detail as well as the comfort it offers.
Instead of a dressier blouse, I opted for a simple white tee. I love the simplicity of a white shirt. Gap always carries my favorite white shirts. They are affordable and long lasting, not to mention easy to wash.
Up close of the outfit details
I was on the go when I wore this outfit so I wore my favorite slip on sneakers with it. I wore these all through Rome, so although they may be from Target, they are long lasting!
My on the go shoes
What else is new with the outfit? I decided to chop my hair before heading back to school, I needed a change and my hair was the best place to start.
Fresh cut for senior year
I am going to enjoy these last few days of summer before it’s back to school. Have a great weekend!
This summer I came out with a new blog series all about recipes.
In June, I shared my favorite salads, an easy lunch or dinner option. You can read all about it here.
In July, I shared my favorite pizza recipe, perfect for entertaining. You can find that here.
Today, I’m sharing a wonderful snack or dessert option. This would go great for a snack by the pool, a road trip treat or something sweet for back to school. Plus, if you don’t have a bonfire to roast smores this is a fun and clean alternative.
This treat takes less than five minutes to prepare and can be enjoyed by all.
For starters, here is what you will need:
The supplies
Golden Grahams Cereal
Mini Marshmallows
Chocolate Chips
*amount needed will change based on portion sizes*
Directions:
Mix one cup of golden grahams with one cup of mini marshmallows and chocolate chips.
Once everything is mixed, enjoy with friends and family.
Up close of the trail mix
This is one of my favorite trail mix treats, although it’s not the healthiest, it is a fun alternative to messy smore’s. What are your favorite trail mixes to enjoy?
Perfect for on the go
Sorry, for the shorter post, I am on vacation with my family and doing my best to disconnect for a few days. See you on Thursday for a new look of the day!
Hey guys! I can’t believe it is August 1!? Where has the summer gone! This has been a packed full summer for me and I have loved everything I have done so far! I only have a few weeks left of summer before it’s back to school. I am going to make the most of the remaining weeks of summer.
I am so excited to share today’s outfit with you. I pieced it together with all things I already had in my wardrobe and I loved the end results. If you read my post on Tuesday, you may have caught that red is my favorite color, but I don’t wear a lot of it since it is so bold. I always jump at an opportunity to wear something fun and out of the box.
I started my outfit out with a white pair of capris. I got my favorite pair from American Eagle and love the cut and style, they can be worn dressed up or dressed down. I personally like to cuff mine at the bottom for a different look. I am also wearing a Michael Kors belt that I got on sale from Marshalls! I love bringing out the black even more.
Who doesn’t love a pop of red!
Instead of wearing a black silk blouse, I opted for a solid black shirt from Old Navy. I love the fabric and it works better for running around.
This read blazer ties the whole outfit together. I typically only wear It around Christmas but have been wearing it more with dresses and pants in the spring and summer for a pop of color.
Lastly, how cute are these shoes?! I love the ruffles and how they can dress up an outfit. I have had these for a few years and love to break them out to change up my wardrobe.
Up close of the shoes
I also accessorized with pearl studs and a pearl ring along with a silver necklace.
Up close of the jewelry
What are your thoughts on the outfit?! Love it? Too bold? Let me know in the comments below!
Hi All! I love reading other blogs and learning about others through Q&A’s. I found this Q&A through Laura. She always posts about her cute baby, fitness, and lifestyle. I picked my favorite questions and answered them myself.
A little bit about me!
When are you most inspired? When I’m driving or working out is when I get the best ideas!
If you could teach one subject in school what would it be? English, I love reading and writing and would love to teach!
What’s your favorite beverage? Water or the occasional lemonade in the summer.
What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received? Anything about how I have changed as I have gotten older and more confident in myself.
What is your favorite birthday cake? Chocolate with raspberry!
What is one thing you still have from your childhood? American Girl Dolls, special stuffed animals, and favorite books
Window or aisle seat? As much as I love looking out of the window, I want the freedom with the aisle.
What does creativity mean to you? Being able to express myself how I want
What is your favorite holiday? Christmas-l love spending time with family and all the gift giving
What’s heavily played on your music playlist right now? SO much country!! It has been my go-to music this summer, give me all the Dan and Shay, Thomas Rhett, and Luke Combs!
Must have purse item? Cell Phone
What did you want to be when you grew up when you were 12? Growing up I always wanted to be a teacher!!!
What is something you will not be doing in ten years? Being in school!
What is an important life lesson for someone to learn? Be yourself and don’t worry about what others will say.
How do you start your day? Journaling and working out!
Would you ever live anywhere besides PA? Yes! I would love to move to someplace new…maybe New York? I have no idea what the future holds which is exciting and nerve racking!
What is your favorite dessert? Warm chocolate chip cookies…or brownies…I love anything sweet!
It’s brunch! What do you eat? Waffles with fruit!
Where was the best vacation you’ve ever taken? Loved visiting Rome this past year and anywhere with my family.
What is a book you are planning on reading? Can’t wait for Emily Ley’s new book to come out in November!!
Happy Thursday! This summer has been flying by and I’m trying to hold onto to the summer days as much as I can.
If you haven’t caught on yet, I have been alternating between fun summer outfits and business casual outfits for looks of the day. Last week, I shared a casual summer outfit and today I have a dress that I know can be worn in so many fashions.
It’s no secret that I love Marshalls and find some of my favorite pieces there. I have had great luck with finding professional dresses as well as sun dresses.
This dress is one that I scored recently. I love the cut and style of the sheath dress and the shades of blue complement my skin tone.
I wore it to work with a pair of sandals and I felt comfortable and cute. However, add a pair of heels to dress it up for a dinner party.
A pair of heels and pearls for a dressed up look
Another suggestion is to swap heels for wedges for a more casual look and add a jean jacket for a cooler night.
Wedges and a jean jacket for a casual look
This is the perfect summer dress and I’m so glad I got it when I did. I know I will be wearing this dress for years to come.
A pair of sandals by the pool
How are you spending your weekend? Enjoy the last few weeks of summer for they are fleeting!
