Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Bits Of Cheer

Happy Tuesday! Dropping by quick to share some of my favorite things during the Christmas season! Can anyone else believe we only have 3 more sleeps until Christmas?! Holy cow! 

1 | My favorite view
Is there anything better than this view?


2 | Christmas Tree Search- Griswold Style
You can read more about this tradition HERE


3 | Dusty Rose Lipgloss
During one of my trips to Ulta I snagged my new favorite lipgloss (in CEO). It's subtle but still gives a little pop to my pale skin this time of year. It's a bit pricey but long-lasting, so I've already deemed it a staple in my makeup bag ;)


4 | Cookies
This year it's "Operation cram every fun Christmas activity into one week"! First up was cookies! 

one of my favorite holiday traditions thanks to my stepmama. She's taught me many things...and to love baking is one of them!! Santa, is it too late to ask for a Kitchen Aid mixer?! ;)



5 | Pre- Christmas Eve
Well this is year, our tradition will actually be after Christmas due to everyone's crazy schedules! But this is definitely one of my favorite days of the entire year. My sister, brother, and their families all gather at my dad and Carla's house. We have brunch, mimosas, and open gifts, then spend the rest of the day relaxing, eating appetizers, and watching christmas movies. It's the best. 


Merry Christmas, loves! 

Friday, December 18, 2015

Friday Favorites

Hi Friends! Friday already?! Maybe it's just me, but this week flew! Joining in on the friday fun because it has been too long...seriously, I don't even remember the last time I linked up :) Nothing too exciting on the homefront lately, just wanted to pop in! 


one:
Technically this was last week, but you may have caught this on insta Powersheets + The Finishing School. My heart is amazed by what these two amazing ladies have created!! I sat in literal awe as I flipped through each page. These women have poured so much of their heart into these pages to help us live on purpose! I just love it. Recap of all these goodies coming soon! Lara Casey | Val Marie Paper


two:
My longtime best friend and I are planning a day trip to NYC right after the new year and I cannot contain my excitement!! Each year we attempt to get the trip in but it hasn't worked. With more steady work schedules I think it's really going to happen. Wahooo! Anywho, I need a few more suggestions from y'all about things to do, places to eat etc. Our one "must see" is going to the Plaza to see Eloise at the Plaza. Thanks friends!!
via google

three:
You know you're getting to be an adult when you ask for new bedroom lamps for Christmas. Go ahead and call me lame! But, I honestly couldn't think of anything I really wanted this year. I'll probably regret that later! Over the summer we redesigned the office so I could have a desk also. I came across lamps from PB and ordered them in green. I had the clear ones on my wishlist- hello versatility! Gosh, when did I become so practical!? #growingupprobs. Anywho, last night I got an email from Pottery Barn telling me all lamps were 25% off...sign me up!! I of course ran to tell my Mama....and that sweet woman bought them! I promise to be surprised when they arrive, Mama! ;)  *not compensated in anyway- just expressing my love :)


four: 
Cutting it short today because.....Christmas is one week!!! YAY! And there's tons of things to get done ;)

FRIDAY means I'm linking up with...5 on Friday:  DarciAprilChristina, + Natasha | Oh Hey, Friday: September Farm + The Farmer's Wife

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Weekending: Christmas Trees + A Spontaneous Trip

My weekend summed up in one word: refreshing.

This season of life has been really tough. A lot tougher than I expected it to be. I'll expand on it later in another post. But let's just say that my free time has been limited add in extra stress, leaving no time to reconnect and recharge. It's a vicious cycle I tell ya! Answered prayers came on Saturday. This weekend was turned out to be the absolutely perfect time to get a recharge. 

Saturday morning I woke up early to meet the rest of my sisters family for our annual christmas tree brunch. Picking out our tree and spending time together is one of my favorite christmas traditions. The weather was gorgeous. 50* and sunny-- definitely didn't feel like christmastime! More like a hawaiian christmas if you ask me ;) Each year we go to our favorite christmas spot and cut our own tree. Think Christmas Vacation, except we didn't have to go that far into the wilderness! ;)  

My dad and Carla mentioned they were headed down to St. Michael's, MD to pick up a few christmas gifts after the brunch. Of course I was a tad jealous because it's always an adventure with them and that sounded like a ton of fun considering the weather was beautiful too. Little did I know I'd be tagging along...and my sister too! It was so spontaneous but absolutely the best. We hopped in the car and off we went. St. Michael's was having midnight madness on Saturday night so all of the stores were open until midnight for shopping. Yes please! Seeing the town decorated beautifully for christmas made my christmas-white light-loving heart happy!
We woke up Sunday and met up with family for breakfast (Heather, we missed you!!!), looked at houses in St. Michael's and surrounding area and did a bit more shopping! 
Stopped by Eastern Shore Brewery for a quick brew late in the afternoon || Downtown St. Michael's || Is this picture real life?! It doesn't even do the picture justice but to look around and see this forever...absolutely breathtaking #noendinsight ||  Two If By Sea has the best crabby benedict ever ||
Wine tasting at St. Michael's Winery...sure why not!? || Next stop was the Lyon Distillery. I had never been to a distillery before so I found it to be very interesting! || Quick bite to eat at Gina's Cafe before we headed out of town. I'm still dreaming about their avocado boat. YUM YUM YUM. ||

After a busy 24 hours of non-stop fun, we hopped back in the car and headed home. Coming back to reality was a bit hard! 

Thursday, November 12, 2015

Goals | November 2015

Happy November! I am so excited for this month because of the holiday season starting, it's full of family time all the time. Isn't that just the best?! Well, it is to me :) Each year as I get older the holidays seem to make me sappy. Cozy nights spent with family, gathering quite often, laughter, good food, the list goes on and on. It's my first (full) fall and holiday season home in four years and I'm trying to soak in every bit of it. 12 days into the month and I thought I'd share some goals! 









...order new glasses and contacts: last month I finally visited the eye doctor (finally) and am in the process of choosing a new pair of glasses! I haven't purchased a new pair in almost 4 years so this one is definitely necessary! 
...read 2 books: I really need to take a little bit of "me" time to rejuvenate. It's so easy to get caught up in life so hopefully I can take a few minutes during the month to snuggle up with a good book :) 
...finish graduate school apps: so time consuming but necessary because I don't want them looming over my head much longer and need to get them in early. win-win, right?! 
...schedule the GRE: necessary for grad school acceptance (unfortunately!)
...begin my day with scripture and quiet time: I started beginning each morning in the word and it really changed how I focused on my day. I felt so much more grounded and peaceful. I look forward to it each day. Also helps me open my bible which I struggle with. 
...complete 1 round of CIZE and clean eating: need to hop back on the train before the holidays. owning it.


...soak in family time: #familytimeallthetime - adopting Elise's saying ;) 
...blog 2x/week: I miss the community and creativity that comes along with writing!
...remember gratitude daily: it's so easy to get caught up in life and especially during this time of year I really want to focus gratitude because there are so many things to be thankful for, even the simplest things. 
...declutter. A LOT: my closet needs a huge purge. oh, and handbag overload...does anyone know a good place to sell gently used designer handbags?? (suggestions welcome!!) Who doesn't love a great spring fall cleaning? 
...book more photo sessions: this has really been on my heart lately. for so long I struggled with going part-time with my photography business because I didn't think I was good enough etc (the list goes on and on) so this year I decided it might be fun to step out of my comfort zone and book a few christmas card photo sessions. Fingers crossed! 
What are your goals this month? If you've posted yours, I'd love to read! Feel free to share them in the comments below!

Linking up with Nat and Annie today! 

Thursday, November 5, 2015

I'm Baaaack!

Hi dolls!! It's been quite some time since I've written in my little corner of the internet! If you don't remember me, I'm Kate, the girl behind the blog! My little space may look a little different since the last time you saw it because it got a brand spankin' new facelift. I hope you love it just as much as I do!! Clean, feminine, and classic was the look I was going for and I think Chelsea nailed it! Who can go wrong with pink, gold, and black? Swoon. I'm so glad I came across her etsy shop! (Thank you again, Chelsea!!!!!) I've really missed this creative outlet and connecting with some of my other favorite bloggers. 

What's been happening....
  • Started a new job in my dream school district (!!!) - more on that later
  • Traveled to the Outer Banks and Savannah, GA over the summer
  • Graduated college (in May.... but never recaped ;))
  • Crossed off a few more items on my 101 in 1001 list!
  • ....and tons of other things! 
Because no post is complete without pretty pictures- here's a sneak peek! 
the most gorgeous place I've ever seen...more so soon :)

I decided it would be fun to link up with Annie and Natalie today....it's been way too long! So I hope you'll stick around as I blog about life, recipes, diy's, and finding my way through post-graduate life! Enjoy your Thursday, y'all! 

Monday, June 1, 2015

J U N E || monthly goals

Happy June!! 6 months into 2015. Someone please tell me how that's possible?! I feel like I say that every month but really! Time is flying!! After a few month of crazy, I'm finally settling into a new routine at home as a post-grad. I crave a good routine. And to be honest the last few weeks have had no structure to the days whatsoever. Owning it. 

So this month, I'm resetting. Getting back to the roots. Doing it for me. Focusing on what matters most. Ever feel like you need a new month as a fresh start to just dive back into something? June is going to be that for me. It's going to be a hectic month with nannying but I hope and pray I get back to the girl I "lost" in the last few months of fun.  Post coming soon of recent happenings! 

Next week I start nannying full time. Which will be fabulous and so much fun but very hectic. These kids are ACTIVE! Don't let it fool you because I love it. I mat also be bias because they're family- but it's the best job. #familytimeallthetime. 

So let's get on to June's goals... 

Reset. Refresh. Rejuvenate. 

1) Start a bible study (hoping to do THIS one!)
2) Clean out closet/organize
3) Read (at least) 2 books
4) Drink Shake + water daily. Exercise 3-5x/week + eat clean
5) Beach trip at least once 
6) Try bulletproof coffee
7) Save.Save.Save.
8) Spontaneous "trips" + focusing on who at what matter most 
9) Dive into Lara Casey's PowerSheets (again!)

What are your goals to accomplish this month? Let's share and hold each other accountable to making things happen this month. Xoxo

Thursday, May 14, 2015

Perfect Summer Glow

This summer I'm committing myself to getting healthy (again). After a health scare last summer and learning more about my family history, being introduced to Aloha and their healthy recipes, it's critical for me to get my health in check. For me, that mostly includes clean eating and exercise... aka getting that summer glow :) Clear, healthy skin!! One of the most noticeable things I found was the inflammation that sugar and process foods cause. Cutting those foods from my "diet" has made a huge difference in my skin, ! I'm not a doctor by any means, but these are just a few ideas that I love and have worked for me! 


Beauty:

Food: 
  • Infused water- by far my favorite in the summer! Lemon + cucumber is my daily go-to! Drinking half your body weight in water makes a HUGE difference! I know it sounds like a crazy amount, but let me tell you, you'll notice how clear and fresh your skin is!
  •  A few favorite super foods: salmon, sweet potatoes, asparagus, avocado
  • Green drinks: I need to brace myself for this one, but I'm committed to trying one this summer...any ideas?!
  • Recipes I'm eager to try: Chocolate Quinoa Pancakes, Pink Berry Acai Bowl, Spinach SaladCheck out my pinterest boards for more clean eating recipes! 
  • Sidenote: From personal experience and articles I've read up on, I learned the cleaner the gut (stomach), the clearer the skin. Food plays a HUGE role in our skin- so let's take initiative and put superfoods in to our body! Don't we all want that summer glow!? We need these nutrients and our bodies will thank us later!

Exercise:
  • T25
  • Pure Barre

What do you do to achieve your perfect summer glow? 

Linking up with Annie and Natalie today!


Saturday, May 9, 2015

It's Graduation Day

Saturday, May 9th 2015. 

As a second grader, I dreamt of attending Penn State University. Never in a million years did I think this day would come, but somehow it happened in the blink of an eye. 4 short years. From starting in Altoona to finishing at Main Campus, these 4 years have been filled with countless memories, laughter, and lessons learned.

Today I will join the largest alumni network in the world and receive my diploma in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the best university 4 years later. I couldn't be more proud of myself. 

I am going through the roller coaster of emotions that I'm sure every college graduate is feeling.  Happy. Excited. Terrified. I want to soak in all of the moments this weekend brings. From the happy tears to the sad tears to the moment I walk across the stage to accept my diploma. I want to remember it all.

Thank you to my amazing support system- my family and friends. I would not be here today if it wasn't for your guidance, love, and support. Thank you for listening to the good, the bad, and the ugly. Comforting me in my deepest disappointments and celebrating my greatest joys. 

Leaving a place I called home for the last 4 years is so bittersweet, on to new adventures! PSiloveU 
Jill O'Brien Photography

Thursday, April 30, 2015

Owning It | Part Two

Hi Friends! Happy Thursday!! One day closer to the weekend. Woohoo! If you've been around the blog for some time, you might remember my post on owning it. Today I'm back for part two! A few weeks ago Christina mentioned she was putting a linkup together, so I'm joining in on the fun! 

Let's get to claiming the crazy! Some are serious, others are not :) 



-Texting and driving is my biggest pet peeve.

-Confession: Sometimes I speak in hashtags...is that even a thing?! I have no idea. Regardless, I find it funny and my friends are probably sick of it- owning it right?! 

-I wish I liked to read. Two books a year is my jam. And even then, that might be pushing it.

-Two questions I avoided at all costs this semester included: "how many days until graduation?" and "what are your plans for after?"

-Some days I'm so black and white ad other days there is too much gray area/indecisiveness. Always room for improvement.

-(Ann Taylor) Loft is my home away from home. If I worked there I'd never bring home a paycheck! 

-I wish I was more of a planner- as in my day-to-day, week-to-week. But sign me up for a vacation 6 months ahead and I'm game. 

-Trista and Ryan are still my favorite Bachelorette couple. I've been known to youtube their season to watch past episodes (obsessed much?). Their wedding was beautiful (and completely over the top but I loved every.single.bit of it. The VCR recording might even still be in our house somewhere. Yikes. I told you I was obsessed...do you believe me now? :) 

-I have an ongoing list in the "notes" section on my phone of baby names, although I'm no where close to marriage or babies.

-The emotions that come with graduating change almost by the hour (ok- maybe the day! ha!) ...tell me this is normal...?

-I decided to take a 20 minute break from studying to finish up this post. Instead it turned into almost an hour from catching up on some of my favorite bloggers that I haven't read in weeks. Whoops.

What are you owning today?

Tuesday, April 14, 2015

April | Goals

March was very good to to me in so many areas! If you saw THIS post, you can find out more! I set a few goals but didn't post them because life happened #bloggerfail. New month = fresh start! Until I realized we're two weeks into the month and I never hit the publish button.... yup... owning it! Anywho, 2 weeks to make a lot happen! 

With my final two weeks in State College creeping up, its definitely bittersweet. Trying to make the most of it all with the people I love most. I cannot believe where the time has gone!  One of April's major goals is to live in the moment! 

On to go April's goals...

1) Finish Cold Tangerines
2) Keep fresh flowers around the apartment 
3) Start and finish T25 Alpha, drink 96 oz of H2O daily, continue clean eating 
4) Purchase cap & gown 
5) Enjoy my final month as an undergrad *tear* live in the moment, cherish every second! 

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Monthly Faves: March

March, my how you flew by! Here we are at April 1st...where is the time going? For the record, I think I say that at the beginning of every month because time really is flying! I loved March for so many reasons but more importantly for the lessons that were learned. Some of the days were hard- a few of the longest days of my life, but also surrounded by some of the best days too. I was astounded by the Lord's faithfulness and the comfort He provided. A culmination of a year's worth of prayers and closure.  I know that's super vague, but if I get the courage one day to share on the big 'ole internet, I'll let ya know :) 

Let's see..what happened in March...
  • Spring Break ...a whole week spent at home. glorious (although a warm sandy beach sounded fabulous too!)
  • Tons of family time- you know the kind where your cheeks hurt from smiling too much and belly hurts from laughing too hard. the best kind.
  • Attended too many happy hours at Primanti's... I mean, it's kinda hard to pass up 1/2 price drinks...especially when 3 rum and cokes cost $5... yeah, that's my kinda price :) #brokecollegekid
  • Down to a smaller size in pants & (some) shirts! (!!!!) More on my weight loss journey later! 
  • Began reading Cold Tangerines --I can't even. I love this book like a whole lot. The honesty is unreal. Why I never read this sooner I'll never know. But what I do know is that I don't want the book to end! 

Now on to my favorites! I don't consider myself to know anything about makeup, I mean really. Until, this month. Cue Ulta + double points during your birthday month! This girl upgraded her makeup a heck of a lot! It was beyond necessary. 

Tarte Park Ave Princess + Slenderizer brush: I was in desperate need for a contour palette and went with the one above. For the most part, I love it- just have to better myself in learning to contour ;) 

Urban Decay Naked3: Pretty sure I was the last girl to ever own a Naked palette and it's pretty much everything people talk it up to be. 

Benefit POREfessional: Honestly, I'm not sure how I feel about this product. It's supposed to fill in your pores...but I don't think my pores are huge to begin with (haha) so I can't say I've noticed a huge difference :) Jury's still out. 

Benefit POREfessional Agent Zero Shine: Jury is also out on this one too. Anyone love it/hate it?

Benefit Stay Don't Stray: In need of a great eye primer? This does the job perfectly! Can't say enough good things!! My eye makeup has never stayed- until this baby came along! 

Naked nourishing lipgloss in lovechild: I don't think I've ever loved a lip gloss so much in my life. Adding more colors to my collection is a must 

Benefit Roller Lash: Giving this mascara 5 stars. Never in my life have my lashes looked better

Oribe Royal Blowout: While getting my hair done earlier this month, my girl, Rebecca suggested I try this product for heat protection while blowdrying. It has yet to disappoint. It's a spray, so it's light and doesn't weigh down your hair- which is a major plus for my fine locks!

IT Velvet Luxe Foundation Brush: After having my old foundation brush for far too long I knew it was time to replace. I chose the one and haven't looked back! Personally, I hate the feel of having a lot of makeup on, this brush gives a light airbrush feel. Highly recommended! 

What was your favorite thing about March? Looking forward to anything in April?

Linking up with Kelli and Mia for this month's favorites :)

Monday, March 16, 2015

Happy Birthday to Me!

I thought about writing a sappy post about turning 22, but woke up this morning and decided to just ENJOY the day. 22-- I have a feeling you're going to be the best yet and I cannot wait! It's almost 60* and sunny here today which puts an extra pep in my step!

Will be blasting these songs throughout my day. No shame in my game! 

Thursday, March 12, 2015

Friday Five

Normally I'd be counting down the days to the weekend...but not this week! I want it to last as long as possible. I've been home on spring break and soaking up every minute of it. A few pick-ups off the bus for my cousins, a little bit of shopping, and of course squeezing in coffee dates with my besties before they headed back to school- precious, precious time. It's no secret that I love being home. Driving through my hometown makes me the happiest person, especially with the gorgeous weather we had this week! Thank you, God!!!!

| one |
Trips to Ulta are always unexpected but always necessary. I always spend wayyyy too much $$$ so I usually avoid the store all costs. However, with my birthday coming up and no new make-up in far too long (over a year. yikes) I decided to splurge. There's still a few things on my wishlist but for now, here's what I took the plunge on! 
| two |
If you read THIS post, you'll know THIS song is on repeat even a week later. So much goodness in a few short minutes. 

| three |
I snagged THIS DRESS for $36 earlier this week!!!! (Originally $90) It's definitely tight way too tight (ha!) so I'm going to continue working out so it fits! I dreaded the thought of trying to find a dress for graduation. I started my search very early and luckily, this one fell perfectly into my lap. Happy camper :) Loft for the win, AGAIN!! Did I ever tell you how much I LOVE LOVE LOVE that store?!
| four |
via pinterest
| five |
Cheering on Nova Nation this weekend is definitely in the cards! Let's go cats!!! 
via
Cheers to my birthday weekend!!! Hope you have a great one, friends!! xoxo
Linking up with: 
Christina, Natasha, Darci, and April for Five on Friday | Karli for Oh Hey Friday | Amanda for Friday Favorites

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