As many of you know, I work a full time position in addition to doing my blog. I have seen many YouTube videos, and I always wanted to do my own version of it. Then I saw this post by Candelles that went through one of my favorite content creators, Alexa LeConche and decided to do my own version of this for the blog. So, read on to learn about an average day in my life.
5:15 a.m. Wake up.
5:20 a.m. Work out. Usually, I do a mixture of HIIT/strength and some running.
6 a.m. Shower
6:20 a.m. Eat breakfast. Your girl is hungry after her workout.
6:30 a.m. Make coffee, and spend 20-30 minutes reading while sipping on my coffee. During this time, I will also check stats on a post that recently published (I usually create content over the weekend), and share links to my Twitter and Facebook pages.
7 a.m. Finish getting ready for the day.
8 a.m. Leave for work. On some days, I grab a coffee or a protein shake.
8:30 a.m. to noon: Work in my office position.
Noon to 1 p.m. Lunch break. What I do depends on the day. On some days, I go into the break room and just read my Nook, but on others, I will run errands.
1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Work in my office position.
4:30 p.m. Drive home.
5 p.m. The first thing I do when I get home is take care of my dog, and then we watch TV together. I usually try to rinse off any containers if I have any, open up any packages or mail that have come in for me, and then just decompress. I work with the public a lot, so I enjoy having some quiet time. While watching tv, this is usually when I try to post a photo on my Instagram relating to any post that went live.
6:30 p.m. My fiancé comes home and we either go in the pool or take Lucy for a walk. We then hang out by either watching TV or I read.
8 p.m. Around 8, we have dinner.
8:45 p.m. I usually eat dessert and then watch T.V. or scroll on TikTok.
9:30 (ish) p.m. I usually try to go to bed between 9:30 and 10, but it depends on the day.
When my grandfather passed away over ten years ago, his final words were “be happy.” At the time, it felt like he was giving his family permission to feel joy even though losing him would cause pain and sorrow. However, as I get older, the meaning has changed.
I am 28 — still young but an adult in every sense of the word. I work full time. I pay taxes. I contribute to my retirement. Sometimes, when I think of doing things that I enjoy — whether it may be a small thing such as going to get a Starbucks coffee, making a change such as moving or switching careers — something always stops me. Sometimes, it’s the fear of leaving that comfort zone. Other times, it’s the worry of what others may think or whether or not they would be disappointed in me. Or, in the case of the Starbucks coffee, it’s whether or not I’ll be late for work.
I am currently going through a period of life where I am going through a lot of changes. Honestly, these changes are causing me to feel discomfort and terrified. For the first time in my life, I am taking the wheel and listening to my heart to do what’s best for me. However, as I am going through this time of transition, I am realizing that those feelings are okay, as the end goal is for me to be a happier being.
I had this epiphany the other day when I was getting ready to drive home from work. For the first time in over ten years, I thought of my grandfather’s words. I then asked myself: Why do we let certain things get in the way of what could make us happy? And, most importantly, why does it even matter? If you’re the one who is the one who is directly affected by the action, why does it matter what someone else does?
When it comes down to it, the reality is life is too short. I believe that today is a gift and tomorrow is something that may or may not be a guarantee. So, why not take chances? Responsibly, anyways. I am not saying quit your job and hike in Europe if you have a family and mouths to feed. Please don’t do that.
I think sometimes we can fall into the path of what is comfortable to the point where I am blind to realize that something isn’t working for me anymore. I know I am guilty of this. This can be for a number of reasons — money, judgement, and other strings that tie is to the thing. Comfort is definitely great and something that we all crave. However, I think that the most important thing in life is happiness. For example, when I finally decided to sell my home to tackle on a new adventure, I held back. For two years. Now that I finally did the thing, I feel like I am ready to take on the world.
The moral of the story here? Screw the comfort zones, and choose happiness.
Happy Friday everyone! I have not done a Friday Faves in a few weeks, and I am doing my best to get back into blogging as much as I possibly can. That said, I wanted to share some of my favorites as of late, and kick off the weekend.
Mejuri Editor Hoops: Last but not least, I want to talk about my latest Mejuri purchase, which are the editor hoops in silver. They are so comfortable and perfect for everyday wear since they are so lightweight. However, that does not mean that they are dainty. They are the goldilocks pair — not too big and not too small. Just right.
Whitney Port Reaction Videos: Did you know that Whitney Port has a YouTube channel? I know. I didn’t either. I am a huge fan of the Hills, and I discovered her watching the videos and reacting. There are over a 100 videos, so I am slowly making my way through them.
Back to the Beach Podcast: This Friday Faves is the Hills themed. Yeah, not really. However, Kristin Cavalleri and Stephen Coletti have reunited for a podcast. And, it’s so good. Similar to the Whitney Port videos, this podcast has both Kristen and Stephen rewatching the series and commenting on it. I already can’t wait for the next episode.
Every Summer After by Carley Fortune: I fell in love with this book and managed to finish it in less than 24 hours. It tells the story of Percy and Sam, who meet at her parents’ summer home when they were teens. The two have a crush, but remain best friends. However, you can tell that there was something more. One mistake quickly unravels it. This book was amazing, and is perfect for lovers of Colleen Hoover and Christina Lauren. The romance was amazing, and I just could not put it down.
James Avery Claddagh Ring: This ring is probably one of the most meaningful pieces of jewelry that I will ever wear — next to my engagement ring. It was a birthday gift from my fiancée and has the date of our dating anniversary engraved on it. I love this because we soon will not be celebrating the dating anniversary, but I also love Irish Claddagh rings as well.
The pandemic has changed the way a lot of things are looked at — including weddings. With the price of weddings growing increasingly expensive, the option to elope becomes the most budget friendly. Emma Thurgood, owner of Emma Thurgood Weddings, challenges the idea of elopements and micro weddings to personalize it to the couple themselves. I met Emma when I was beginning to plan my own wedding, and I knew I wanted to bring her to the Nutmeg Millennial. So, read on to learn all about the many hats Emma wears.
1. Tell Me about yourself. What made you want to be a photographer?
I have been an artist since a time before I can remember, so I always knew that visual art was going to be my profession. I achieved my BFA in painting and my MFA in studio art before becoming a curator for arts non-profit organizations. It was while I was in grad school that I got into photography, though it wasn’t my main artistic medium. I continued it for years as a hobby and photographed a few weddings for friends and worked a bit for a friend of mine who was a wedding photographer. When I was ready to leave gallery life, becoming a professional photographer was the natural choice.
2. Tell me about Emma Thurgood Weddings? What exactly is your role, and what services do you provide?
I’m an elopement and intimate wedding photographer + planner. I primarily work with clients who want to have a wedding day with less than 20 people, though I will take on weddings with guest counts up to 100 people. My main service is as a documentary photographer, but I also provide a lot of hands-on assistance in the planning process. Each one of my clients get access to my vendor guide, full of recommendations of top notch vendors for the day. I’m always available to provide insight and answer questions for my couples when they want my opinion on something they’re considering for the day. All of my clients get detailed timelines and, where necessary, portrait lists created for their day so that I can be super organized and efficient on the day. For elopement clients, I provide customized and detailed location lists, timeline options and activities ideas.
3. What, in your opinion, makes micro weddings and elopements so special?
Hands down, it’s the intimacy, experience and personalization that these kinds of weddings offer. When you have a smaller guest count, your options of what you can do for the day just open up. As you add more people the locations, activities, and budget options all become more limited and more homogenous. Smaller weddings allow couples to really experience their day instead of being rushed through it. The average reception is 5 hours long. If you have 150 guests that’s only two minutes to talk with each guest and that doesn’t even account for time to eat, formalities, or to hit the dance floor. Smaller weddings also allow couples to spend their budget on things that they value instead of on the venue, food and drinks for 100+ people. The average wedding in New England is about $40,000. You can spend $20,000 on venue, food and drinks for 100 people and still not be done spending… or you could spend $15,000 on an epic adventure getaway with 20 people and still be spending less than a large wedding after all your other wedding expenses.
4. How long does it take to plan a micro wedding or an elopement?
A very simple wedding can be planned in less than a month. You can even plan an epic adventure elopement for just the two of you and a few guests in three months. A micro-wedding with more than 10 guests is a tall order for anything less than 6 months. Some couples who really want a luxury experience start planning a year out in order to budget for all the things that they want.
5. Where do you draw inspiration for the weddings for your clientele?
I love being in nature, and my clients do, too! So together my clients and I talk about why they love being in nature, what their favorite kinds of outdoor activities and adventures are and we start brainstorming from there. For me, it’s really important that I’m facilitating the vision of my clients, not imposing my own vision onto them. I try really hard not to photograph the same wedding twice, and following my clients lead helps prevent that.
6. What is YOUR dream wedding, if you have one?
I would love to be part of a backpacking elopement weekend. Hiking up to a location, having the ceremony with fabulous views at sunset, camping under the stars and then hiking back down and perhaps celebrating with family during the afternoon of the second day.
7. What is your advice for those who are considering an elopement or micro wedding, but are nervous based on reception?
Life is too short to plan the wedding of someone else’s dreams. You should feel completely comfortable and true to yourself on your wedding day. You are under no obligation to invite anyone (not even your mom) and anyone who makes you feel bad about that is having an issue with their own insecurities. I’ve talked to too many people who have wedding regrets from listening to other people’s ideas of what to do for a wedding. Don’t let yourself feel that way about yours.
A lot of people decide that they want to go with a micro-wedding or elopement to save money. However, I think a lot of people’s expectations are misled or uninformed. Yes, an elopement or micro-wedding can cost less than the average 100 guest wedding. However, you will be hard pressed to be able to spend less than $10,000 on a bespoke experience that isn’t just heading to your local park. There’s your attire, lodging, photographer, flowers and decor, dining expenses, etc. A lot of the expenses you have for an elopement or micro-wedding are the same amount as if you hired them for a 100+ person wedding because they are not based on the guest count. Elopement photographers in particular tend to be more expensive because we are more involved in the planning process than when you have a venue that comes with a coordinator to lean on. I have a whole blog post about elopement budgets with real breakdowns, which is where you can really see the way that an elopement can vary wildly in how much of the budget gets spent where even when the total costs are about the same.
TGIF everyone! Today is especially special because I am starting my vacation, which is super exciting. I am really looking forward to some time off. In the mean time though, here are this week’s favorites:
T Jazelle Zodiac Bracelet: I am a Cancer, so I am so excited that T Jazelle finally released this in my sign. I have been waiting for this for over six months to release and I am so happy that it is finally here. Many of my bracelets are silver, but I find that it blends in with my other stacks from T Jazelle.
She Gets The Girl by Rachel Lippencott and Alyson Derrick: I am a huge fan of Rachel Lippencott, and I am enjoying this book so much. It is told in dual perspectives. Alex is the girl who can’t say the words I Love you, while Molly is so shy that she can’t talk to her crush. It’s such a cute read, and I am loving it.
Mejuri Balance Coin Necklace: I need more balance in my life. I love this necklace to layer, because it’s longer than some of my other pieces. Furthermore, I love the little reminder of the importance of balance.
Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score: I am finally picking up a BookTok recommendation. I haven’t gotten too far into the story, but I started it yesterday and I am engrossed into the story. If you like Colleen Hoover, I will say to definitely check it out.
From live music to events, Aquila’s Nest Vineyard in Newtown, Conn. offers an experience that is more than just unwinding with a glass of wine. With a vibe that is relaxed, Aquila’s Nest is the best place to do just that. Located just off of Route 34, the vineyard offers a gorgeous view to enjoy with that glass of wine.
First, let’s talk about the wine. While the vibe is relaxing, the wine is definitely worth the trip. Their wine list offers the usuals — red, white, and rose (you can view the complete wine list here). However, they also offer some great seasonal picks as well. For example, when I visited this past weekend, they had red, white and blue wine slushies. And, they were perfect for the hot temperatures.
Now, let’s talk about their event calendar, because it is jam packed. They have live music and food trucks on a regular basis. But, there is so much more. Some of the upcoming events that are listed include: yoga, karaoke, and paint and sip. Be sure to check their Facebook for the events. And, of course, you can host a private event there as well.
With all that it has to offer, I think Aquila’s Nest is great for a girl’s night, or even just a fun and relaxed night out with your significant other (if they like wine that is). I definitely recommend taking the trip if you’re looking for something to do all while taking advantage of the Connecticut summer weather.
Happy Friday, and happy start to my birthday month! I am so excited for the long weekend, and hope to get some R and R in. But, before we enter the weekend, let’s talk about some of my favorites of the week:
Mejuri Dome Ring and Croissant Ring: I have been seeing these rings on my Instagram feed for years, and influencers have been raving up and down about these pieces. I purchased them in silver, and I can see why. They are amazing and I have been wearing them on repeat for the last few days. I am definitely becoming a Mejuri Stan, and I am perfectly okay with that.
Amazon Earrings: Moriah Robinson influenced me to buy these hoops and I am obsessed. They are amazing quality, and they are so lightweight. Oh, and they don’t turn your ears green. I have seen these on more expensive brands and these are amazing for the price. I can already also see myself getting these for gifts as well.
The Summer I Turned Pretty (both book and movie): I finished the series on Sunday and read the books over the last week. These books were very nostalgic, and I enjoyed reading them. It tells the story about the main character, Belly, who goes to her Mom’s best friend’s house. Her mom’s best friend has two sons. Needless to say, there is a love triangle that spreads the course of the three books. Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book, and watching the series. And, of course, I am dying for the next season.
June is coming to an end. As we reach the end of the month, I want to share some of my recent purchases on Amazon. Amazon has been my go-to lately, and I’ve been enjoying looking for some new finds. So, without further a due, here are this month’s Amazon’s Faves:
Pavoi Initial Earrings: I love all things initial, and these earrings are so adorable. The price was incredible, and they do not irritate my sensitive ears! These make a great gift, or a little treat for yourself.
Cup Sleeves: I drink a lot of iced coffees, and so these have been handy to prevent the condensation from leaking all over my desk. I love this little set because it came in three different sizes so I’m covered no matter what size drink I get.
Lounge shorts:I got the black ones a few years ago, and recently, I added the gray because they are so comfy! These are amazing to work out in, or even to lounge around in. And, they are not too short either, which I really like.
Claw Clips: I love these, because they hold my hair in place even while I am working out. I got the neutral set, which go with pretty much everything. These are honestly some of the better clips that I’ve purchased, and I highly recommend them.
With tons of cookouts, fireworks, and celebrations, America’s birthday is fast approaching. I actually don’t own much red, white, and blue I always rely on accessories to amp up the outfit.
That said, I wanted to share some of my favorites that I will be wearing on repeat this Fourth of July weekend. Most of these are jewelry, but I have thrown some other great ideas as well. What is unique about all of these is that you can wear these all year around. I love celestial jewelry so stars are a must.
T Jazelle Red White and Blue Stack: The T Jazelle cape bracelets are a great piece to have to either layer or on its own. For Memorial Day, I stacked the red, white, and blue opal ones, and they looked amazing. However, I do wear them separately or in other stacks that I create.
T Jazelle Stacker Set: This stacker set is amazing. It’s perfect for the Fourth of July, because of it’s red, white and blue beads. However, it’s something that you can wear throughout the year in other stacks as well.
Kendra Scott Jai Earrings and Necklace: I have the sterling silver versions of these, and I am obsessed. However, they come in a ton of colors, and are great accessories during this Fourth of July party season. What I love about the sterling silver is that it goes with any outfit, AND it works great in my first and second piercing.
JOJO Loves You Earrings: I personally don’t have these, but these earrings are an amazing addition to any outfit. I purchase mine at Tickled Pink, and these come in royal blue and cherry bling. You can stack them together for the Fourth of July, and then wear them seperately for the remainder of the year.
When I realized that I was lactose intolerant about seven years ago, one of the hardest things for me to give up was ice cream. Since then, dairy-free ice cream has popped up at many local ice cream shops and Ben and Jerry’s. Soft serve ice cream, on the other hand, is another story. I have been patiently waiting for the day when Dairy Queen releases a soft serve without dairy, but to this day, they have not.
However, Meriden’s Les’ Dairy Bar has answered my prayers with their new dairy free soft serve vanilla flavor. It is 100 percent dairy free, as it’s made out of pea protein.
This opens a ton of doors for those who can not have dairy. Currently, they only have one flavor of soft serve, but still, having the option of eating soft serve is enough for me.
That said, you can have the non dairy flavor with any of their other choices. However, they recently introduced a Vegan PBJ Parfait and it sounds so delicious. It is the vegan vanilla soft serve, with peanut butter, Nutter Butter cookies, and raspberry syrup.
Now, you may be wondering. How does it taste?
I made the trip to Meriden last week to taste it myself. I ordered a cone with rainbow sprinkles, which was a favorite that I couldn’t have in years. And, it was delicious. It tasted exactly the same as soft serve with dairy. Needless to say, I savored every last lick.
So, it’s safe to say I will be at Les’ Dairy Bar this summer a lot. However, if you have friends and family who can eat dairy, there are a lot of options for them as well. After all, who can resist going out to get ice cream on a hot summer night?
Exactly.
You can view updates for Les’ Dairy Bar by visiting their Facebook page here.
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