What I Got For Christmas 2018

I hope everyone had a great holiday with friends and family! Every year I love making a video on Christmas sharing with y'all what I received as gifts. I wanted to film it on Christmas but I have had a cold for the past week and I was finally feeling up to shooting the video this morning. Every since Thanksgiving even with school being over I have been keeping pretty busy which is why I have not been around too much. I have lots of plans for the new year for the website which I am excited to start working on. I hope you enjoy this video and I would love to know what items you received for Christmas. 

Trader Joes Face Wipes / Trader Joes Face Sheet Mask / Schmidt's Deodorant / Tarlette Tease Palette / Hula Bronzer / Sun Bum Lip Balm / Tooth Brush Heads / Smart Wool Socks /  Yeti Wine Rambler / J Crew Factory Corgi Socks / Corgi Board / J Crew Lace Top / Vineyard Vines Sweatshirt / Vineyard Vines Sperry's / Face Mask Set / Vineyard Vines PJ Pants & Top / LL Bean Jacket / Silk Pillow (similar) / MacBook Pro 

Pre Black Friday Sales

Well I am officially on break for the rest of the week which means I have some more free time to blog (Yay)! After a busy weekend and not feeling great yesterday I am excited to be back and today I am sharing some great sales that are going on right now. I don't know about you but I want to try to get all my Christmas shopping done as quickly as possible this year so I don't have to worry about it. I took advantage of some of these sales last night and got some of it done! Black Friday every year gets earlier and earlier to the point where Black Friday really isn't a "thing" anymore considering the sales go on for almost two weeks now. I will be doing another post sharing all the sales come Black Friday/Cyber Monday but I thought I would share the scoop on the sales that are going on right now in case you want to get a head start on your holiday shopping. If you really wanted to you could get it done before December even comes! 

Ann Taylor // 40% off and free shipping with code SHOPEARLY  Draper James // 25% off with code GATHERROUND Gap // 50% off with code BLKFRIDAY  J Crew //  40% off with code TOGETHER  J Crew Factory // 40% to 50% off with code ADD2CART  Kate Spade // 30% off with code GIVECHEER Land's End // 40% off with code SPICE and pin 4587   Loft // 40% off with code BESTWEEK  Old Navy // 40% off no code needed   Ralph Lauren // 30% off select styles with code HOLIDAY  Tory Burch // 30% off $250 or more with code THANKS Tuckernuck // 20% off with code GOWILD  Vineyard Vines // 25% off everything and free shipping with code HOLIDAY18 

Video: Tory Burch Unboxing

About a month ago around Columbus Day Tory Burch was having a fall sale. I had my eye on this bag for quite some time and when it went on sale for 25% off I decided to splurge and buy it! I have been using it for a little less than a month now and I am in love with it. It is the perfect size and shape. I filmed this video of me unboxing it and I am finally getting around to uploading it. I don't want to come across like I am bragging but I proud of my purchase and I wanted to share it with you! I had a ton of fun sharing this video and would love to do more like this in the future.  
The bag I got is the Tory Burch small Robinson double zip crossbody in navy!  

My Christmas Wish List

Well it seems that holiday gift guide season and holiday shopping is already in full swing! I feel really on top of it this year to have my Christmas wish list done before Thanksgiving. I have to say it gets harder every year to tell my family what to get for me but I think I did a pretty good job of coming up with some items I have been wanting. I would love to know what is on your wish list this year and I will be sharing my sister wish list soon as well. 

As for gift guide season for me here on the blog I have a different idea I am going to possibly try out. In the past I have done gift guides for all different categories which is mostly what you see on blogs today. I am kind of sick of this idea because they all have similar ideas so I am coming up with something a bit different that I will be hopefully sharing next week.

LL Bean Jacket / Whiskey In A Teacup / LL Bean Flannel / Yeti Cup / Vineyard Vines Hoodie / Lilly Pulitzer Dress / KJP Monogram Sweater / Vineyard Vines Sperry's / Hoola Bronzer / Whicker Purse / J Crew Lace Top /  Dior Lip Balm / David Yurman Pearl Earrings / Tarte Eyeshadow Set / LL Bean Slippers /  Peter Thomas Roth Face Mask

Perfect Work Blouse

I just looked down at my watch tonight and I almost could not believe that 12 days of November have already passed. Where is this month going? I have tons of fun posts it is just always a struggle during this time of year with the semester wrapping up to find any extra time. Hopefully soon I can focus more on posting blog posts as the end of the semester will be here before I know it! 

Today I am sharing an outfit I shot a while back now but I am in love this with blouse. I purchased it last year but J Crew keeps making it in different colors and I am obsessed. It is the perfect work blouse and I always get so many complements on it. I love the tie around it to make it look more fitted. You have to check this blouse out if you are in need of a work wardrobe update. This would also make a great holiday gift! 

 

Top: J Crew / Jeans: J Crew Factory / Shoes: Aldo / Necklace: Kate Spade / Bracelets: Lily and Laura / Watch: Apple / Earrings: Kate Spade 

Current Favorites

Wow time slipped away from me and somehow it has almost been two weeks since my last blog post (sorry about that). I have just been busy with life, work, and dealing with my weekly doctors appointments. Now that it is November I can't believe how quickly the end of the semester is approaching. I am getting SO excited for the holidays and everything this time of year brings. I am also excited to start planning some holiday blog posts as well. I don't think I am ready for Christmas just yet but I am totally ready for Thanksgiving! 

Today I thought I would share with you some of my current random favorites I have from fashion, food, and beauty! 

 

It Cosmetics CC+ Cream // I had a 20% off Ulta coupon that could be used on anything in the store so I decided to give this a try in the shade fair light and so far I am loving it. For me it is the perfect amount of coverage without feeling heavy at all. They have a bunch of shades and I am just loving this foundation. I have now tried a few It Cosmetics items and everything has been a real winner! 

The Perfect Navy Sweater

Ok I promise this is my last post about my visit to Mackenzie-Child's but I wanted to share this outfit I wore! I mean the pictures turned out way to good not to. I am completely in love with this navy sweater from J Crew Factory. I got it on sale for about $30 and I might have to get it in a few more colors. It is the perfect fit, weight, and length. All around it is a great winter staple piece especially for the price! I also linked a similar vest to the one I am wearing that J Crew Factory came out with this year. I have a unhealthy obsession with winter vests because they keep you warm and can help mix up a simple look!

 

Sweater: J Crew Factory / Jeans: J Crew Factory / Vest: Marshall's (similar)/ Boots: Sperry / Socks: J Crew Factory / Necklace: Kate Spade / Earrings: Kate Spade / Watch: Apple

My Favorite Mackenzie-Childs Products

If you missed my post from the other day I shared some pictures from my trip to visit the Mackenzie-Childs store in Aurora, New York. After looking in the store and learning more about the company I thought it would be fun to share some of my top items I am loving from them. I would love to know what items you love from there brand and if you own any pieces! 

 

Apothecary Jar / Rattan Tray / Wine Cooler / Salt & Pepper Shakers / Cake Carrier / Two Tier Sweet Stand / Canine Cookie Jar / Medium Pitcher / Tea For Me Pot / Medium Dog Dish / Tea Kettle / Molly Butter Dish / Picture Frame / Pedestal Vase / Everything Bowl 

Weekend Trip To Mackenzie- Childs (Aurora, New York)

I had it on my summer bucket list to visit the Mackenzie Childs store in Aurora, NY. They have a huge barn sale every July that I also kind of wanted to go to. I was in Martha's Vineyard during the sale so I never made it out to the store this summer. So the past weekend we made a ladies trip out of it and my sister, my mom and I took a mini road trip to visit the store. I took some amazing pictures and I also wanted to share the experience with you!  

 

I had heard of Mackenzie-Child for quite some years now but really didn't know much at all about the company. In recent years they have become more well known and have grown with the help of social media. The company is based out of Aurora, NY overlooking Cayuga Lake which only happens to be a few hours from Buffalo. So this made for the perfect weekend trip. There is really not too much else in the little town but the drive up was nice and we spent the night in Rochester and did a little shopping and dinner.   

What I Wore To Work #2

Last week I posted my first "What I Wore To Work" post so if you missed that I explained the series in this post. Today I am sharing my outfits from this week. I don't know why some of the pictures look so blurry but this is my real life daily photos which is what the series is about so were just going to go with it! I had a pretty uneventful week but it also seemed to go kind of slow so I am glad to have a few days off and enjoy the weekend! I did manage to find most of the items I am wearing to link for you to shop if you are interested! 

 

Scalloped Tank: J Crew Factory / Pants: J Crew Factory (smilar) / Sweater Blazer: J Crew / Shoes: Tory Burch / Necklace: Kate Spade / Earrings: Kate Spade / Watch: Apple 

Weekly Wellness: Recipes I Have Tried Recently

Happy Thursday everyone! I don't know about you but this week seems kind of long. The whole week I kept thinking it was a day later than it was. We can do it though only one more day! Today I thought I would sit down and share some recipes I have tried recently for something a bit different. My wellness posts have been all about me but know that you know my story, for the most part, I want to start exploring different tops. So I thought I would share some recipes I have tried recently. If you don't know as of last spring I started following a gluten free, dairy free, low sugar diet plus I also have a nut allergy. So it can be a struggle to find good tasting recipes I can eat so needless to say Pinterest has become my best friend.  

 

 

Apple Cider Donuts // With the fall weather and going apple picking I was craving an apple cider donut. So I did some searching online and found this recipe and they came out really good! They legit tasted like apple cider. The only thing was I probably could have let them cook a bit longer but I didn't want to burn them. 

What I Wore To Work #1

I have debated on starting this series for a few months now but have been hesitant to do it for two main reasons. One the picture quality is not going to be picture perfect blogger quality and I don't want to feel like I am taking a step back from my new amazing photos I have been taking with my new camera. The second reason is often times I can't link what I am wearing in the picture if the clothing items is older. With all that said I have decide to give this new series a try! Every week I am going to be sharing a quick blog post of what I wore to work the past week. I work as an intern in a corporate environment and I feel like there is a lack of simple realistic work outfit ideas on blogs.  
This blog series is similar to Prep In Your Step who shares here daily outfits in a weekly recap.   These posts are going to be quick one to two photos of my outfit taken really quick in my horribly light hallway before I head to work. I think this can really help others in the work field get inspiration on what to wear. I will not always be able to link the exact items but I will link similar styles if I can find them! I think this blog series will be a great way to get inspiration and not also forget that blogging does not always have to consist of crazy fancy photos! Let me know what you think of this idea and I will probably also post another one soon sharing a bunch of photos I have taken in the past month or two when I was thinking about staring this series.   

Pittsburgh Travel Log

This past weekend my family took a trip to Pittsburgh for the weekend. Me and my sister both had off of school for Columbus Day so we decided to take a road trip and visit a new city. Every since I started college, going away for Columbus Day has been a tradition to celebrate my dad's birthday since (which is today Happy Birthday dad!) I am not normally able to make it home on his actual birthday. I had never been to Pittsburgh but it was a fun time and I would definitely go back again. It is really nice because it is not that far of a drive from Buffalo.  
Where  We Stayed // We rented an Airbnb outside downtown in Highland Park area. It was a cute street that was very quite and a great place to stay. The Airbnb was very nice and had everything we could have needed. 
How We Got There // Like I mentioned it is only a few hours away from Buffalo so we drove and it really was not that bad. It is a great place to go for a long weekend!    

Apple Picking and the Pumpkin Patch

This past weekend I went to Pittsburgh with my sister and parents for the long weekend since we had off of school for Columbus day. It was my first time visiting the city and we had tons of fun eating our way around Pittsburgh and exploring local sights. On Saturday we took a trip to Soergel Orchard outside the city for some fun fall festivities. We did some apple picking as well as pumpkin picking. The farm had so much to do we ended up spending most of the day there even though it was CRAZY busy. There was a line just to get into the entrance. I have never seen an orchard so busy before. It was also in the high 80's which is why today's outfit features shorts in October. Living in Buffalo I never thought I would be posting an apple picking outfit in shorts but I guess there is a first for everything! 

I am working on a travel recap from Pittsburgh which should be up in the next few days reaping the whole trip. In the mean time I would love to know what fun full activities you have been up to! Also thanks to Summer Wind for this fun fall recommendation. If you don't read her blog be sure to check it out you will love it. 

 

T-Shirt: J Crew Factory / Shorts: Old from Target (similar) / Boots: Hunters / Hat: Southern Proper / Necklace: Mantra Band / Earrings: Kate Spade / Sunglasses: Warby Parker (similar style)

Dog Items Wish List

Today I had this fun idea of sharing a dog wish list. Now I know that your thinking I don't have a dog  which is true but over the last year or so I have come across some pretty cute dog accessories I wanted to share with you. Most people probably don't know this but I have an obsession with Corgi's and Portuguese Water Dogs. My love for Portuguese Water Dogs started about 5-6 years ago when we were on vacation and someone had this dog on their boat. I feel in love with them. Fun fact this is also the dog that Obama has! As for my love for Corgi's I don't exactly know when it started other than I saw them on Instagram and the queen has Corgi's. They are just the cutest thing. I do love cats because that is what I have grown up with but I also really want these two dogs. While I am not getting one in the near future the next best thing I can do is shop for accessories ;) So I wanted to share just a few cute things I have come across. I would love to know what dog accessories are your favorite. 

 

The Black Dog Collar / Vineyard Vines Leach / Barbour Dog Jacket / Black Dog Placemat / Vineyard Vines Treat Jar / Land's End Monogram Dog Bed / Black Dog Bowl / Luxury Dog Toys 

Weekly Wellness: At Least

Happy Friday everyone! I don't know about you but I am ready for the weekend. I had a busy week and am ready to have some fun this weekend doing some fall activities and celebrating my friends birthday. As much as I felt like posting a fun fashion type post today I have been wanting to share a health update and share my thoughts with you. Typically I film videos for my Weekly Wellness series (changing the name from Wednesday Wellness) but today I felt like just writing it all down. I still may film a video and then add that to this post!

I was going to write this post last week after I had my doctors appointments but I am glad I waited a week or so to let things sink in. Now I have a more clear idea of what I am wanting to share so here it goes.

Entrepreneur Inspiration: Evelyn Henson

I love finding and supporting small businesses that I find. I feel like I am always coming across some amazing brands with owners who are so inspiriting. A lot of these brands I simply stumble upon online or on social media. So I thought it would be fun to show case some of these brands I find in order to share them all with you! For the first Entrepreneur Inspiration I am featuring the artist Evelyn Henson. I found her online a little while back and her hand painted prints are to die for! They are all so fun, colorful, and preppy. She also does prints of map of different cities. This is right up my ally because I love to travel. These maps make the perfect keepsake after a trip. She also has a line of college campus prints that raise money for cystic fibrosis which is so awesome! The prints make the perfect addition to any room but she also sells other things like cards, pillows, and mugs! I hope you enjoyed this new posts and love this company as much as I do! 

Fall 2018 Bucket List

I love making bucket lists each season, month, and year but I have been neglecting this the past few months. I made one for the summer and I actually got quite a bit done from that one. Some of the items from the summer I didn't get around to doing so I added them to this list. I just love bucket lists because I feel like it helps me plan mini fun things and it forces me to focus on enjoying the free time I have. It is so easy for a whole month to go by and then realize that you had nothing planned all month to do. This way you always have a list to reference. I am excited to do all fall things for the next month or so. I think I might starting posting bucket lists monthly if y'all would be interested. I just have so much fun with them so why not?! 

Catching Up

Happy Monday I hope everyone had a nice weekend! I just wanted to sit down today and catch up with y'all so this post is going to be a whole lot of random thoughts. 
1. Weekend Whereabouts: I never posted a Weekend Whereabouts post last week but last weekend I went to a Hunter Hay's concert and had tons of fun. Every year my school puts on a fall concert at the start of the school year and I was super excited about this one especially since it was my last one. The only thing was the concert was outside and it happened to be quit cold but it was still great. I also got in some fall shopping with my sister.  This weekend I went home and it was honestly so nice to just be home and hang out. I got my nails done and worked on way to much homework.    

Transitioning Into Fall With J Crew Factory

 

Sweater: J Crew Factory / Vest: J Crew Factory / Jeans: J Crew Factory / Boots: Jack Rogers / Necklace: Kendra Scott / Earrings: Kate Spade  

Fall Inspiration / Wish List

I hope everyone had a great weekend! I will be sharing a Weekend Whereabouts posts tomorrow. Also happy Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale day! I shopped it today and managed to pick up a few really cute dresses. I can't wait to do a haul once I get the items. The weather turned very cold over the weekend and it got me thinking about fall so I wanted to put together some fall items I am wishing for. I didn't realize it at first but I guess I am really feeling navy and kelly green this fall. I picked up a few pieces at J Crew Factory over the weekend and I will be sharing that outfit in the next few days. I would love to know what items are on your fall wish list! 

 

J Crew Factory T-Shirt / J Crew Factory Blazer / J Crew Cardigan / J Crew Factory Skirt / Abercrombie Sweater / Abercrombie Button Down / J Crew Factory Necklace / J Crew Sweater / Abercrombie Fleece / Vineyard Vines NFL Shep Shirt / KJP Monogram Sweater / Vineyard Vines Joggers / Green Hunter Boots / Tuckernuck Pancho / Loafers / Tuckernuck Scarf / Tory Burch Crossbody 

Wellness Wednesday #3 or Weekly Wellness: Nutritionist Experience

I think I might have to rename this series Weekly Wellness because I never get the videos up in time! These videos always end up taking way longer than I think they will. It has been a few weeks since I did a Wellness Wednesday post. In today's video I am sharing with you my experience with a nutritionist. I went to one for three appointments back in April when I was trying to start an anti-inflamatory diet. I was trying to figure out all the things I should avoid and what I should be eating to help reduce my symptoms. In today's video I am sharing all my thoughts on the experience and if it was worth it! I would love to know what your experience with a nutritionist was like if you ever had one.     Check out the rest of the videos in this series here! 

Weekend Whereabouts #3

I started posting a few of these weekend whereabouts posts at the beginning of the summer but to be honest in the summer on the weekends I was mostly working, on vacation which I then shared in a travel recap posts, or I literally didn't do anything to share. However with the school year starting up I think it would be fun to get back into these posts to share what I am up to with you! Especially since I feel like during the school year the weekends are when I tend to do a majority of activities. Now I probably will not have something to share ever week but we will see. 

This weekend I was pretty busy trying to get in the last bit of summer with it being Labor Day weekend. On Friday I went to see Crazy Rich Asians at the AMC. I feel like everyone has been talking about this movie so I thought I had to go see it. It was really cute with some funny parts as well. The movie originated from a book and now I kind of want to read the book. It was definitely a perfect Friday night. 

 

Clearwater Florida Travel Log

I guess I might have been in denial that summer is officially over because I had this video made literally right after we got back from our trip to Florida but I couldn't bring myself to write the blog post. I guess I hoped summer would last a little bit longer but summer is definitely nearing the end. I had my first week of classes last week and things are already in full swing. It took me a few days to get back into the routine of things which is why I didn't get too many blog posts up this past week. It is always hard to get back into a normal routine after being on summer vacation mode. Today as a last summer hurrah I am sharing with you the details of our family trip to Clearwater Florida! 

 

Where We Stayed // We rented a beach house right outside of Clearwater in Indian Shores. We rented it through Air B&B and it could not have been more perfect. It literally was right on the ocean. You looked out any window and could get a full view of the beach. It also had a really nice deck you could look out on. It had three bedrooms, a large kitchen and two bathrooms which was perfect for our whole family.  

Lilly Pulitzer Sale Is Here!!

I know I have mentioned I can't wait for the Lilly Pulitzer sale a few times on here recently well they finally released the dates and the sale is going to be September 10 - September 12th. It will start at about 8 AM on the 10th and go until 12 PM on the 12th. This sale is hands down the BEST way to get Lilly Pulitzer items discounted. Pretty much most of my Lilly Pulitzer items I have bought on sale. Some people are not too happy about the dates being moved. I guess I am a little sad it is not in August but at least their still is a sale! 

Every Summer Has A Story

 

Sun Protectant Rash Guard: Land's End (This one matches the bottoms) / Swim Bottoms: Land's End / Shoes: Birkenstock / Hat: Tuckernuck  / Sunglasses: Warby Parker 

Lilly Pulitzer Wish List

Callisto High Collar Shift / Amory Shift Dress / Marah Dress / Karlie Wrap Romper / Harper Shift Dress / Goop Shift Dress / Ardleigh Dress / Florin Reversible Top / Luxletic Skort / Tennis Dress / Straw Tote Bag / Bikini Top / Swim Skirt / One Piece Swim Suit 

While we all patiently await the announcement date of the after party sale I thought I would share my favorite items right now on Lilly! I have no idea what will be on sale this year or when the sale is but hers hoping some of these items are on sale. This years sale may be a bit later than usual based on what I have heard. I am really excited for the sale because I have not purchased too much Lilly this summer. I would love to know what items you are eyeing up! 

Cozy Pajamas & Night Time Relaxation

 

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Her Campus Media. As always all opinions are my own. Thank your for supporting the brands that make Miss Melanie May possible!

Sorry I have been MIA over here the past few days but things have just been so crazy getting ready for school and packing. Every since we got back from Florida my to-do list just keeps growing. 

I am really excited about today's post because I am sharing my favorite pajamas I recently got for my birthday from Lake Pajamas. Having nice pajamas is one of those things that is not needed but once you have them you don't know what you did with out them. As school starts up and everyone starts to get busy with "life duties" it is important to remember to take a little bit of time for yourself and relax at the end of the night. With the help of the Her Campus InfluenceHer Essential Kit for the fall I have some exciting new ways to wind down before bed. I always use my essential oil diffuser and try to read a little before hitting the pillow but sometimes I end up being to tired to read. If I have extra time I enjoy taking an Epsom salt bath. I also try to get into the habit of moisturizing before bed especially as the fall months start to arrive and the weather cools off. The Bliss Lemon + Sage Body Butter is an amazing rich body moisturizer for all over. I can tell you it is not greasy at all. I know this because I put A LOT of coats on while trying to take these pictures ;) It has such a nice clean, fresh spa smell that is just so nice. Finally I have been loving this Hcxo 100% silk sleeping mask. I use to wear sleeping masks as a kid quite often. I had a few ones from Claire's back in the day. This one from Hcxo feels so luxurious that it makes me want to fall asleep. Silk is suppose to be better on your face and hair. This face mask is the perfect new edition to helping me relax and unwind before bed! I would love to know in the comments what your favorite ways are to relax before bed. 

Keep reading for giveaway information... 

Recent Shopping Finds

I have been working on a few posts for this week that require a bit more time and effort so I thought I would keep things easy for today and share some items I have recently found and fallen in love with. All these items I don't own but they are on my running list of items I wish I had! Does anyone else always have a long wish list? Some of these items I saw while we went shopping for the day in Tampa while in Florida. They had a bunch of high end designer stores and when ever I see designer products in person I always end up adding more to my wish list. I don't share it too much here because I don't own a ton of designer items right now because well they are way to expensive. Though I LOVE designer bags and shoes! 

I am back from Florida and I will be sharing a post about our family trip to Clearwater in the next few days! 

 

David Yurman Monogram Ring / Spartina Backpack / Lilly Pulitzer Marah Dress / Gucci Bow Flats / Gucci Dionysys Shoulder Bag/ Lilly Pulitzer Noelani Leggings  / KJP Monogram Sweater / Keep Collective Cuff

SaveSave

Wellness Wednesday #2: Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Well I started this new series Wellness Wednesday to share health related content every Wednesday but so far both posts have not actually gone up on Wednesday. This past week I have been out of town on vacation and the video took WAY longer to upload than I thought it would. 

In today's video I am sharing all the details about my anti-inflammatory diet I am currently on to help reduce my symptoms of inflammation. Some of these diet changes like going gluten free were a bit challenging in the beginning but I am finding it to be a lot easier than I thought it would be! Best of all I have really noticed an improvement in my health since I started following this diet. 

SaveSave

Lilly Pulitzer Tiki Wrap Romper

Romper: Lilly Pulitzer (similar) (similar) / Shoes: Tory Burch / Earrings: Target / Necklace: Kate Spade / Watch: Apple

Recent Purchases

Today I am sharing some of the products I have purchased over the last month or so. These are all items I have been loving recently and I wanted to share some the products with you! They are not all clothing which I think makes it more fun! I would love to know what some of your recent purchases have been. 

Women's Birkenstock Arizona EVA sandals (Same) // I just bought these shoes the other week for my trip to Florida and I am SO happy with them. They are all rubber so you can easily rinse them off after a day at the beach. They are also so comfortable. These are literally the best beach shoes I have ever owned. 

Flamingo in Florida

 

Shirt: J Crew Factory / Shorts: J Crew Factory / Shoes: Jack Rogers / Necklace: Kendra Scott / Bracelete: Kendra Scott / Watch: Apple  / Rope Bracelet: The Black Dog

My Autoimmune Story

Today I am sharing with you my autoimmune health story and this is probably one of the most nerve-racking posts to share but I really want to. When I started blogging back up again in May part of the reason I wanted to get back into it was that I now had a whole new area of content I wanted to share with Y'all. As I may have briefly mentioned here and there over the past year I have experienced a number of health related issues but I have not gone into much detail up until today!

 Part of my reasoning for taking a year off from my blog was partly due to my health. When I came back to blogging in May I had so many posts idea I wanted to share with you revolving around health and wellness. I even changed my blog name so I wasn't just stuck writing only about fashion. Though I didn't realize how hard it was going to be to share these topics with you. I understand now why so many people on Instagram and social media only choose to show their latest outfit or favorite beauty products. It's not because they don't have other things to talk about it's because sharing more personal things isn't comfortable. However, with that being said I am pushing those feelings aside and doing it anyway because I want to share my experiences and thoughts with Y'all in hopes of maybe helping others! I did try to give as broad of an overview as a could in this video but when I was sick I was extremely not my usual healthy self. I have big plans for a new series I am calling "Wellness Wednesday". In this series each week I will discuss some topic related to health and wellness. So I thought it was only fitting to start from the beginning and share my health journey with you. I made this into a video style post because it just seemed like too much to type up. I am warning you now it's a long one and it may be of no interest to you at all which is totally fine. I get that this is completely different from what I normally post so you may not be interested which is fine! Trust me I still will be posting plenty of fashion and beauty posts too. This is not what defines me it is just part of my life now and so with that here goes nothing! 

 

On a different note the video on my new camera is SO GOOD

Martha's Vineyard Travel Log

I am finally getting around to posting a travel log of what I did on my trip to Martha's Vineyard from almost a month ago now. I went with my sister, her friend, and my mom. The last time I was in Martha's Vineyard was the summer of 2015. I went with one of my best friends and our mom's for the first time after we graduated high school. My sister wanted to go really bad so we made sure once she graduated high school she would be able to go! She was nice enough to let me tag along on the trip and I am so glad I decided to book a flight and join them. We had the best time with perfect weather. I am completely in love with the island and a definitely want to go back again next summer! I wanted to share with you what we did each day in case you are looking for suggestions on the island. 

Birthday Dinner Outfit

 

Top: Molly & Kate / Jeans: Vineyard Vines / Crossbody: Tory Burch / Shoes: Kate Spade / Long Necklace: Kendra Scott / "M" Necklace: Kate Spade / Earrings: Kate Spade / Watch: Apple / Bracelets: Lily & Laura 

Weekend Whereabouts #3 & Exciting News

I have really missed blogging the last few weeks but I just have been lacking on finding the time. I have been pretty busy with my internship ever since I got back from about three weeks of traveling. Then this past week I was kind of under the weather a bit. I know I said that I was going to be posting last week but time just got away from me. I do have lots of posts ideas coming and don't worry I will hopefully be posting my Martha's Vineyard travel log tomorrow! 
I had another busy weekend celebrating my birthday so I thought I would share what I was up to and catch you up on my life recently! Wednesday was my 21st birthday so I thought I would share a few pictures from my birthday. My sister and mom made dinner and a cookie cake and then we went out for a drink!

Quick Life Update

It has been a minute since I lasted posted a blog post so I wanted to share with you a quick update on where I have been. Long story short I have basically been traveling every week since July started and I finally am back home and needed some time to catch up on life. At the beginning of the month I went to D.C. for a couple of days for the 4th of July. Then the week after on July 11th I left for Martha's Vineyard with my sister, mom, and my sisters friend. We stayed until Sunday the 15th and had the BEST time. It was so much fun and I can't wait to share everything about the trip with you. Then once I got back from that trip I had two days at home and then I left for a conference in Phoenix with my sorority on July 18th and didn't get back until this past Sunday on July 15th. So I have been playing catch up the last few days trying to unpack and check some things off my to-do list. I am finally feeling rested and should be back to normal blog posts tomorrow. I have lost of fun posts coming your way! 
In other news my birthday is a week away which is crazy because I can't believe it is almost August. This summer is just going by so fast. Finally I dropped my camera and it broke (sad day) so I may not have a video to post for a little while in case you were wondering/looking for a video! Here are a few photos in the mean time:

Birthday List 2018

Well I can't believe it but my birthday is already in about two weeks and then I will officially be the big 21! I have always loved celebrating my birthday, making plans, and coming up with a birthday list. I still make a birthday list to give my family an idea of what I want. Every year I feel like my list ends up having some type of theme to it and this year seems to be the year of workout clothes. Ever since I started taking Pure Barre classes I have a new obsession with cute workout clothes I can wear on the weekends. I pretty much live in athletic clothes on the weekends because I don't want to dress up when I do that all week for work. So today I am sharing with you my birthday list for this year! Don't worry I will be sharing lots of posts about my birthday including what items I get once I celebrate my birthday in August. 

 

Lululemon Swiftly Short Sleeve Crew / Lilly Pulitzer Harper Shift Dress / Lake Pajamas / Apple Air Pods / Outdoor Voices 7-8 Springs Leggings / Dior Addict Lip Glow / Titleist Baseball Cap / Navy Wide Bow Sun Hat / Lululemon Define Jacket / David Yurman Pearl Earrings / J Crew Factory Twill Jacket / Outdoor Voices Athena Crop / Southern Marsh Dune Fleece / Yeti Wine Glass 

BCBG Navy Romper

 

Romper: BCBG from Tj Maxx (similar) / Shoes: Aldo / Earrings: Sugarfix for Target / Watch: Apple / Necklace: Kendra Scott / Bracelets: Lily & Laura 

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2018

You probably have already heard all about the Nordstrom Anniversary sale because everyone and their mother has been posting about the sale. If you haven't though or forgot the sale starts today July 12th for Nordstrom card holders. This means if you have a Nordstrom credit card you can start shopping the sale today! This early access privilege goes all the way until July 19th. Then on July 20th the sale opens to the general public. I am a huge fan of Nordstrom. They always have what I am looking for, they offer free shipping, and the items always ship super quick. 

I can't say exactly everything the sale will have this year but I for sure have my eye on the Natori Feather Light Bra. This is my all time favorite bra and it always goes on sale. I am also looking for a Barefoot Dreams cardigan. My sister got one during the sale last year and I am praying it is one of the items that is on sale this year. Those are my two main items I am looking for but I am sure I will find tons of amazing deals on all kinds of fall apparel.  

You can also check out this Nordstrom Anniversary sale catalog that gives a sneak peek of some of the items that will be on sale starting today!  

If you shop the sale I would love to know what items you end up purchasing! 

4th Of July In Vineyard Vines

 

Dress: Vineyard Vines (smilar) / Shoes: Toms / Earrings: Sugar Fix for Target / Necklace: Kendra Scott / Braceletes: Lily & Laura / Watch: Apple / Sunglasses: Warby Parker  

Life Update: I Am Headed To Martha's Vineyard

This is probably going to be the worlds shortest blog post for me but I just wanted to hop on here quick and let you know that I leave for a trip to Martha's Vineyard tomorrow morning and I will not be back until Sunday night. I am going with my sister, my mom, and my sisters close friend. I have not been to MV since I graduated high school myself so I can't wait to be back!!! With that being said I was finally on top of things for once and have blog posts that I pre-uploaded. So there will still be new blog posts up while I am away on vacation. I am taking this time away to have a mini break from blogging and I am not even brining my laptop on this trip. I love blogging but I think it is so important to take mini breaks so you don't get burned out. Anyways I will be back to posting on Sunday or Monday with lots of new exciting content. I will be sure to share all about my trip when I come back! 

Six Reasons I Love Pure Barre

I have mentioned it a few times on the blog about my love for Pure Barre. I took my first class last summer in Hilton Head and I really liked it so I went as much as I could over the summer when I wasn't busy with work. The first class was definitely a challenge but in a good way. When I moved back home for the school year I knew I wanted to continue with it. Luckily there is a Pure Barre studio in Buffalo so I signed up for a membership this past fall. It isn't super close when I am away at college but I try to go 2-3 times a week when I am in school. I recently hit my 100th class milestone and I couldn't be more proud of myself for sticking with it. 

So today I wanted to share with you the reasons I love Pure Barre so much in case you have not tried it before, are thinking about trying it, or just love it as much as I do! In this post, I am simply going to share my love of the class. If y'all are interested I can do my fitness posts about my full workout routine and more specifics about the class. 

1. You Can Do The Class At Your Own Pace // I think my number one reason I love PB so much is each class can be modified to fit your needs. Whether you have an injury, are expecting, or have not worked out recently the moves can be adjusted so you still feel like you are getting a workout that is challenging but at your own level. When I got sick in December I didn't have a lot of energy but I was still able to go to Pure Barre I just did things differently. Maybe I would forget the weights, keep my leg lower or use the ball for my back just to name a few.