I’m sure that I am not the only one out there who is on their phone way too much. I just checked my screen time on my phone, and it was almost five hours a day on average. To me, it’s not bad, considering I do use social media for my blog, but that’s a number that I really want to make sure goes down. Some booktubers have shot videos about reducing their screen time by reading for that amount of time — however, I don’t think that I can do that amount a reading a day.
Therefore, here are some ways I’ve been reducing my screen time:
1. Going for a walk: I try to take a walk with my mother in law, husband, and their dogs every night. I usually try to leave my phone at home, which means the temptation for scrolling is greatly reduced. That said, I do end up bringing my phone sometimes to listen to my audiobooks, as there is nothing better than to walk while listening to a book.
2. Crocheting: Crocheting is one of the best ways I can reduce my screen time, because I am completely focused on my project that I’m working on. I often crochet while listening to an audiobook or binge watching a TV show. This also helps me pay attention to the TV show — and not my phone.
3. Crafts: Going off of the crochet thing, I do a lot of other types of crafts as well, such as the Cricut, jewelry making, and more. Those definitely keep me off of my phone, so I can focus on what I’m doing.
4. Journaling: I used to journal every single day. When I moved, I quickly fell out of habit. One thing that I’m changing is adding journaling to my morning routine — even if it’s only 10 minutes. That’s 10 minutes less aimlessly scrolling on TikTok.
I have been an Apple Watch girly for the last four years. I thought that I would never change and be one for life.
Well, things change.
Four years later, I have grown tired of the watch. On my series 6, the battery life has quickly changed, and I barely could get through a full day of use without having to charge it. I also fell while running, and needless to say, she had some blemishes. I also craved the feel and look of a classic analog watch.
Furthermore, I began to find the Apple health app very confusing. I wanted to focus on my steps. I wanted to be able to keep track of my cycle, and when I got my period.
I considered getting a FitBit, but I have had the worst luck in the world when it comes to those devices. So, I decided to purchase a Garmin from Amazon, and so far, I’m in love. I’ve only used it for a week, but I wanted to share my initial impressions on the watch and the Garmin Connect App.
Garmin has a wide selection of watches for women. The Vivomove series is no exception, and comes in four different varieties: the sport, the trend, the style, and the lux. The lux is only available on Garmin’s website by customization only.
The Garmin Trend comes in a few different colors and cases including the black on black, the gold and gray, the rose gold and the white, and the silver with mist gray. I decided to get the rose gold and white option.
The Vivomove trend is a typical health-focused smart watch. It offers a count on steps, can track your sleep, reminds you to get moving if you’re stagnant for a while, and shows your notifications. The watch also offers music control as well, something that I have yet to try. Unlike my previous device, this one works with both iPhone and Androids. Some other features include Garmin Pay, something else I have yet to use as well.
What I love about this watch (other than the battery life) is the fact how health focused it is. This watch focuses on activity, which is a huge motivation for getting me moving. Something that I didn’t like about the Apple Watch that I love about the Garmin is that it focuses on ensuring on getting a certain amount of steps today. Furthermore, the Garmin allows you to customize the activities that best suit your lifestyle. Mine include yoga, Pilates, and cardio — but the options are limitless. You can program it to cycling, and to various gym equipment.
That being said, it expands to be much further than that. The Garmin Connect app gives you an extensive reading on your sleep cycle, and provides you with the Body Battery, which is a gauge to see how fully charged you are. I love that, because it’s been really cool to see how your body needs rest so you don’t “bottom out.” Garmin does an amazing job keeping track of your stress score, which is something that I love.
I also love the menstrual cycle app, as well as the hydration part of the app. I love having that as a goal, because your girl has a hard time getting motivated to drink water. I can assure you that I definitely do not drink enough water.
Overall, I can say that I am happy with the switch as of now. The only thing I do miss? The fact that I am unable to respond to my text messages from my wrist. But, that’s a small price to pay at the moment.
I will have to keep you updated with my thoughts as I have the device longer, but these are my initial thoughts.
I still can’t believe that I am sitting here writing the introductory paragraph for my July favorites post. For those of you who may not know, I got married this month, and I have been planning and looking forward to this month pretty much for what seems like forever. Time flies.
I have a lot of random favorites that I would like to share with you, from makeup to jewelry, to more. So, let’s get right into them:
1. Audible: I have been loving audio books. This month, I have been listening to audio books almost 24/7. I credit my obsession with them as being the reason why I have been able to finish a lot more books than I usually would have. I also had to purchase a few additional credits on Audible, which has definitely helped me cross quite a few books off of my TBR.
2. Little Words Project Bracelets: My obsession with this brand began in 2020, when I wore them all the time during COVID. Now, I am falling back in love with them. I credit this largely to the fact that I am now a Little Words Project Brand Ambassador (shameless plug here to use my code BANUTMEG to get 15 percent off), which is perfect for a bracelet obsessed girly like me. One of the most joyous parts about my day is to pick out my words of the day. I even had made a few for my wedding, including one with my wedding date and hashtag. I definitely recommend this to all, because they are truly special and fun to stack up.
3. Rare Beauty Eye Liner: I am currently in my eye liner era, folks. I finally learned how to use it, and I’m enjoying adding it to my everyday lineup of makeup. I also am such a huge fan of Selena Gomez’s makeup line, so naturally, I have her eye liner.
4. Buxom Lip Gloss: This is something that I have had in my bag, and recently tried it in the effort to use it up. I love this lip gloss, because it definitely plumps your lips and gives them a full effect. There are so many different shades, but they are all amazing.
5. Coach Corner Zip Wristlet: I am in my wristlet era, guys. My maids of honor gave me a gorgeous teal one, which was my something blue for my wedding. I then fell in love with it, and subsequently used my birthday coupon to get the brown and black one. It fits my car fob, as well as my cards with ease. The only thing that it doesn’t fit is my phone, which is fine, but worth noting. This makes such a great gift for anyone, but is a great quality wallet for the price. It is also super versatile.
A few weeks ago, I got married and my husband and I went on our honeymoon. We spent a week in Maine, and absolutely loved every minute of it.
While I was taking a break from blogging, I did want to share some of the outfits that I wore on my honeymoon. The temperatures in Maine were colder than they were back in CT, so I wore a variety from jeans and sweatshirts to shorts and sundresses.
Here’s what I wore on my honeymoon.
Day One:
Day one was supposed to be a rainy day, but then cleared up. My husband and I took the time to explore Freeport and their outlets. I absolutely loved exploring Freeport, especially the LL Bean outlet. For this, I wore a pair of jean shorts, a black t-shirt, and Converse. For a bag, I used the Lululemon all night festival bag.
At night, we went out for dinner, and I switched the jeans for a pair of white pants.
Day Three:
On day three, we explored the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. Since it was hot out that day, I wore a pair of linen shorts and a plain white t-shirt. For a bag, I used my Jen and Co Riley Convertible Crossbody bag.
That night, I wore my Aerie sports dress, along with my Converse again, and my Coach Heart Crossbody bag, which was perfect for my honeymoon if you ask me.
Day Four:
Day four was my birthday! To celebrate, we went to the Portland Heat Light and explored the downtown Portland area. For this, I wore my Aerie romper, a pair of checkered Vans, and my Lululemon Micro All Night Festival Bag.
I did not change for dinner that night, but I did have some delicious pizza.
Day Five:
On day five, my husband and I took our dog for a hike on Bradbury Mountain. For that, I wore my Lululemon Align Tank Top, a skort from Athleta, and of course, some sneakers. Furthermore, I also had my Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag, which is the perfect bag to use while hiking. That afternoon, my husband and I took it easy before we went out for dinner.
On our last full day, my husband and I headed to the Portland Observatory. The view is definitely worth it! For this, I wore a t-shirt and jean shorts. I also wore my white Birkenstocks, and my Large Everywhere Belt Bag from Lululemon.
Prime Day came and went, and all I bought was a refill of makeup sponges due to the fact it happened while I was on my honeymoon. However, I did want to share some of my favorites that I’ve been obsessively using from Amazon. After all, there is nothing better than a good Amazon find.
Stoney Clover Makeup Dupes: We all know that I love Stoney Clover Lane, but I can’t bring myself to use the real things when it comes to my makeup and skincare. Enter these Stoney Clover Dupes. I have the SKIN and FACE ones, which fit perfectly in the large dupe that I had purchased a few months back. I love these pouches, because they keep all of my cosmetics and skin care products in one place — something that I really love and helps cut down on time spent searching for the correct product.
Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition: I have an obsession with this Kindle. I am on it for hours a day, and I’ve only charged it a handful of times since I got it back in March. I use this to read in the pool, as well as pretty much anywhere. I do have Kindle Unlimited, which helps me rent books and save money on buying books.
Sunglasses: I love these sunglasses. I got contacts a few months ago, so I wanted to get some fun non prescription glasses. These were amoung my favorites,and they were less than $15.
Pavoi Huggie Hoops: I recently discovered Pavoi, and I am loving these pieces. My favorites are these hoops. They are so comfortable, and they are good if you have multiple piercings like I do as I can wear them in both my first and my second ones. I have the green and the black ones, and they go with so many different outfits.
Cushionare Sandals: I love these sandals. I have both the white and the black, and I use them whenever I go for a walk, to the beach, to the pool, and as slippers. Why? Because they are so comfortable and easy to wear. I love them, and if you buy anything from this post, these are it.
Pavoi Statement Hoops: I’m sure I’m the last one in the world who discovered these hoops, as they are viral. I have the silver ones in almost all of the sizes, and they are so comfortable and lightweight. You can barely tell that they are there, which is something that I really love. You can also get these, like most of Pavoi jewelry pieces, in yellow and rose gold as well.
TGIF! Today is the first Friday since I came back from my honeymoon, and I am so excited to get back in the swing of things. One of the things that I am looking forward to is writing my Friday Faves post. I have a ton of faves that I am so excited to share with you before we go into the weekend, so without further a due, here are this week’s favorites:
1. Little Words Project Bracelets: These bracelets have always been a favorite of mine for years, and now I am so excited to announce that I am officially a Little Words Project ambassador! I placed a huge order from their website, but my favorites as the moment are my Bride one, my breathe, good energy, and my wedding date! I love this brand, because they stand for nothing but good vibes. Please shop my link here, and to get your own for 15% off, use the code BANUTMEG.
2. Audible: I have been obsessively listening to audiobooks while doing a lot of different tasks — working when I can, crocheting, and walking. And, I’ve been enjoying it. I have been able to get through quite a few books on my TBR, which is always a good feeling.
3. Anthropologie Necklace:I picked up this necklace with my birthday coupon, and I am so obsessed with it that I ended up grabbing it in a few different colors. I love this because it’s the perfect pop of color, and is great for summer!
4. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus: I loved this book, and devoured it on the way home. This tells the story of Elizabeth Zott, a chemist in the 1950s who gets her own TV show. The dialogue was amazing, and I could not put this charming book down until the very last sentence. I definitely recommend, as it’s definitely worth the hype.
5. Coach Double Zip Wallet: I love this wallet! I picked this up with my Coach Outlet birthday coupon, and I love that I can fit my cards, my car keys, and my phone in one place. It also fits in my bag perfectly. I have the black one, but I definitely want to get a few more colors.
6. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt: I was influenced by my friend Maxine, and I loved this book. It was so beautifully written, and I loved watching the development of the characters. This tells the story of Tova, who lost her son at age 18. Thirty years later, Tova is working at the local aquarium, and befriends Marcellus, an octopus that is held in captivity. Marcellus, a kleptomaniac, tries to connect Tova to what happened to her son. I definitely recommend reading this book if you haven’t already. It is worth the hype.
Wow, it’s been over two weeks since I sat down and wrote a post. If you’re not familiar around here, or don’t follow me on Instagram (be sure to follow me here if you don’t), the reason why I haven’t written a blog post is because I got married on July 7, 2023.
Photo Credit: Noella and Scott Photography
My wedding day was one of the best days of my life, easily. Instead of following the traditional route, my husband and I had a small ceremony by the water with our bridal party, parents, and grandparents. We decided to do this so I can ensure that I saw my mom on my wedding day, and to make sure our beloved Jack Russell Terrier, Lucy, can be included. That said, we will be celebrating our marriage in September with our family friends.
Photo credit: Noella and Scott Photography
Doing my wedding this was easily one of the best decisions. My bridesmaid, Marisa, scheduled a bridal yoga session in the morning, which was the perfect way to fill my cup up and relax before the day began. My bridesmaids and I did our own hair and makeup, and it was such a great time getting ready together. The day was filled with so much love and happiness that I want to relive it again and again.
Before I dive into the pictures, I want to take a moment to thank our vendors. Our cake was from Alyssa’s Cakery in Wallingford, our photographer was Noella and Scott Photography, and our flowers were from Graceful Acres. My vendors truly did a wonderful job in making sure the day was special.
Now, without further a due, here are some of my favorite photos, all of which are from Noella and Scott Photography.
June is almost over. This means that 2023 is halfway over, and I am in disbelief on how fast time is flying by. My wedding is one week away, and I’ll be on my honeymoon. Wow. I can’t believe that my wedding day is actually and finally here. Before we dive into that, let’s go over my favorites for the past month:
1. Audible: I’ve been obsessed with audiobooks lately. I listen to books when I’m passively doing things, crocheting, and walking. I’ve listened to two books this month, and it’s amazing to help me plow through my massive TBR book.
2. Briar U series by Elle Kennedy: I binged this series, and have one last book left. I love Elle Kennedy, and she’s officially becoming an auto-buy author for me. These romances are addicting, and are amazing reads.
3. Baggu Medium Crescent Bag: I’ve been obsessively using the neutral one the past two weeks, and it’s my favorite Mary Poppins-type bag. I think that this is a bag that’s been on my favorites list for months, and I’m okay with that. If you’re considering this bag, I highly recommend that you get it. Trust me, your other bags will hate you, but you will love it.
4. And Just Like That: I am so excited that And Just Like That has returned. Say what you want about the show, but Sex and the City will always be my favorite, and this will be my guilty pleasure.
5. Kindle Page Turner: I got this as a gift, and I am so obsessed with it. It makes a great gift for someone who has a Kindle, and it’s definitely worth the money if you’re considering it.
6. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros: Yes, this is worth the hype. That’s all I have to say about this.
7. Converse Sneakers: I have been obsessively wearing Converse shoes for the last few weeks. They are so comfortable and they go with everything that I can think of — from dresses to jeans to shorts.
TGIF! This week’s Friday Faves is jam packed with favorites, from books to Amazon to jewelry, and I am so excited to share them with you.
This weekend is the kickoff of a busy season for me. I have my friend’s 30th birthday party, and there are exciting plans for celebration. But, before we get there, I would like to share some of this week’s favorites:
1. Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros: Everyone is talking about this book on BookTok, and after finishing it earlier this week, I can see why. I reviewed this book in a post earlier this week, and I still stand by my opinion in that post. I definitely recommend picking up this book as soon as you can get your hands on it, because it is in fact worth the hype.
2. Pavoi Huggie Hoops: I recently decided to try these huggie hoops, because I was looking for some CZ studs to wear daily. I got the black and the green, and they are great because they are really comfortable and hypoallergenic. And at the price point, you truly can’t go wrong.
3. Briar U series: Elle Kennedy has done it again. Last month, I devoured the Off-Campus series. This week, I devoured the Briar U series, which is a spin-off of the other books. I’m currently on book 2, and I can not put these books down. I’m currently trying to get through Elle Kennedy’s backlog, and so far, I would say that it’s a success.
4. Baggu Folding Bag: We all know that I am a huge fan of Baggu, especially the medium crescent bag. I recently got a folding Baggu, and I am obsessed. I’ve been carrying it with me to work, to the grocery store, and even out shopping. What I love about this bag is that it makes it so easy to take a reusable bag while out shopping, because when you’re done with it, you can just fold it up to a tiny square. 10/10 recommend.
5. Lululemon Mini Belt Bag: I am obsessed with this little belt bag. Yes, I carry a lot of stuff on the go, but I got this to hold my phone when I’m walking and don’t have any pockets. I then started using this as a bag to take to the gym, and I’m so happy with it. It doesn’t hold much other than my phone, AirPods, and my wallet, but when you’re taking a walk or going to the gym, you really don’t need much more. So far, this is definitely my most-used Lululemon belt bag to date, which is saying a lot because I use my others regularly.
It’s officially summer time, and the recipe for a perfect summer spot is simple: good food and good vibes. One place that does this perfectly is Milford’s Dockside Brewery. Now, Dockside is not just a brewery. It’s an experience that is enjoyable by all.
Dockside is enjoyable in all four seasons, not just summer. In the wintertime, patrons can reserve their igloos for a good time. In the summer, you can hang out on their deck, facing a gorgeous view.
I visited Dockside this past weekend, and I really enjoyed my visit. We went in the early afternoon, and there was already a bit of a crowd. We had to wait for a few minutes, but the wait was nowhere near what I was expecting. However, I want to note that there was a ton of parking options, which was shocking to me despite the small space.
Now, let’s talk menu. Dockside has an incredible and extensive food and drink menu, so it can satisfy everyone. There’s beer and New Haven style pizza — the perfect combo. But, there’s also apps, sandwiches, wings, and other cocktails. When we went, my fiancé got wings, and I got a chicken gyro in addition to sharing a pretzel. The food came out in a timely manner, and was definitely delicious. The fries were those thick potato wedge fries, and they were so good.
Furthermore, I also would like to talk about the amazing experience that is Dockside. There is so much to do at Dockside it isn’t even funny. There is cornhole, firepits, mini golf, as well as firepits for you and your crew to hang out in. Add in the gorgeous view, and you got yourself a great day.
Overall, Dockside is definitely the perfect place to create some summer memories this summer.
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