Waning Summer Months Erupt into "August" Splendor

  August to me is the end of summer. Once Labor Day rolls around next month it just becomes fall for me. The warmest days and highest humidity during the month here in Northeast Ohio reminds us that August knows it is still summer as well. It is almost as if mother nature needs to end the season on a bang. While some flowers are dying down now in the garden, like the petunias and hosta, others are just coming into their own like the hibiscus and geraniums that seem to be blooming anew again. 

August is often a bittersweet time.... it is the winding down of lazy summer afternoons, the final days of warmth and heat before the crisp autumn air arrives. The birds begin their migration by the end of the month as well. Everything just knows in nature what is right around the corner. It is a reminder to soak in as much of the sun as possible yet before the days shorten.

I continue to look at each day as a new beginning and each month as a clean slate, another chance at a new year. I will savor the fruits of the season in all their sweetness and freshness. I will embrace the summer activities this month has to offer before the days are gone.

August's Bucket List:

• Soak up as much sun and outdoor time as I can.
• Attend the county fair... and hopefully win a ribbon! 
• Enjoy a backyard cookout and look up at the stars!

Comment below: What is on your August bucket list? How do you enjoy the last days of summer?

July- A Month for Heritage!

 While July is the heart of summer and half way through the year... it is also a month of celebrations! For me these celebrations have always meant celebrating my heritage....

It's no secret that I am Italian but I also have English decent in my genes as well. The 4th of July, or Independence Day, holds a special meaning to me in celebration as well. Not only because I am an American of course, but I am also a descendant of one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. On my father's side I descend from one Thomas Stone of Maryland who was on the committee that drafted the Articles of Confederation and signed the Declaration of Independence, later also serving in Senate for Maryland.

Shortly after all of the picnics, parades and fireworks every year then comes the Mt. Carmel Festival and mass for Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, which I have posted about many times in the past as well. With both events in the same month and marking the halfway point for the year, July truly is a month for me to celebrate my heritage and all that my family and I are.

So as the fireworks reign this month, I will be celebrating my freedoms right along with a sort of Italian "new year" rejoicing another quiet year of the volcano.  I will be waving flags this month for both sides of my heritage. 

I will look at each day as a new beginning and each month as a clean slate, another chance at a new year. I will embrace the activities of each festivity this month and all they have to offer and represent.

July's Bucket List:

• Celebrate with fireworks several times.
• Enjoy gluttonous festival and picnic foods
• Remember where I come from.... celebrate heritage!

Comment below: What is on your July bucket list? How do you celebrate summer festivities?

June- Welcome Summer!

"June is the gateway to summer, the month when the world is reborn." - Unknown

This quote is inspiring because it reminds us that June is a time of new beginnings. The weather is warm, the flowers are in bloom, and the days are long. It is a time to get outside and enjoy the beauty of nature. It is also a time to start fresh, to set new goals, and to make new memories.

I hope this quote inspires you to make the most of June too!

With all of the flowers and wildflowers coming into bloom, I decided to go to the field across the street and cut myself a lovely wild bouquet of Sweet William. I hope to keep fresh blooms in the house for the rest of the summer now.

My June Bucket list:

• Get my garden in and enjoy being outdoors daily.
• Enjoy fresh blooms indoors daily.
• Plan a short weekend trip (I didn't get this booked last month yet)

June is also National Rose month, so I can think of no better time that to try to get to Riverside Gardens this month for an afternoon stroll. Comment below: what do you plan to do to celebrate the coming of summer this month?

Preppy Wardrobe Staples

Preppy style is a classic and timeless look that is perfect for any occasion. It is characterized by its clean lines, simple silhouettes, and classic colors. Some of the essential pieces for a preppy wardrobe include:

• Button-down shirts: Button-down shirts are a staple of preppy style. They can be dressed up or down, and they come in a variety of colors and patterns. Having a plain white one at the very least is essential whether wearing it alone or layered under sweaters or blazers.

        Below is a perfect example from Ralph Lauen of a good button-down top to have in your         wardrobe. Bonus it's linen as well which makes it good for all seasons.

• Chinos: Chinos are another essential piece for a preppy wardrobe. They are a versatile pant that can be dressed up or down, and they come in a variety of colors. Styling should be fitted yet relaxed for the best look. 

        Below is a perfect pair from Talbots that are very versatile.

• Loafers: Loafers are the perfect footwear for preppy style. They are comfortable and stylish, and they can be dressed up or down.

        I absolutely love my pair from JCrew that are Italian leather.

• Sweaters: Sweaters are a great way to add a touch of warmth and coziness to a preppy look. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can find one that suits your style. Of course, the classic prep style is definitely a cable-knit version. These can keep you cozy in the warmer months or look just as wonderful in the spring draped over your shoulders. Also good are cashmere knit sweaters, they add warmth in the colder months without being bulky. For a basic preppy wardrobe, you should include a basic cardigan in a neutral color as well.

        For a lovely cashmere sweater, try this one from LL Bean available on Amazon.

A great cable-knit option is this one also from LL Bean. You could also go for a rollneck version too.

• Denim: Denim is a classic fabric that can be dressed up or down. It is a great option for a preppy wardrobe, and it comes in a variety of washes and styles.

        Denim is a must and can be found on any budget from Old Navy to Ralph Lauren to Tory         Burch. Denim is more about how the fit feels than the need to splurge on the pair. 

• Accessories: Accessories can add a touch of personality to a preppy look. Some popular accessories include scarves, hats, jewelry, and watches. You can never go wrong with a simple string of pearls though and I truly stand by my belief that pearls absolutely go with everything!
• Blazers: Another essential staple, these can either be tweed, linen or seersucker depending on the season. They can be worn over a dress or look just as pulled together with a pair of jeans. 

        There are so many options in blazers that it is hard to even list them all but here is a                 versatile one from Ralph Lauren.

• Sheath dresses: We can't leave off this essential piece. A good sheath dress can be worn alone as a casual look with sandals or dressed up with a blazer.

        I absolutely adore sheath dresses so much so that they were my unoffical work uniform             when I went to work in an office. So easy to throw on one piece and be out the door                 while still looking professional and so pulled together!  One of my favorite brands for this         was always Calvin Klein because they were budget friendly but had great style details. 

   With these essential pieces, you can create a preppy wardrobe that is both stylish and timeless. Comment down below: did I miss something essential? Which pieces are your basic go to's?

"May" New Beginnings Abound

May is a month of transition. The weather is getting warmer, the days are getting longer, and activities are starting to be outside more. This is a great time to start planning for summer activities, like vacations, barbecues, and outdoor concerts as well.

May is also a month of celebration. There are many holidays and special events in May, including the Kentucky Derby, Mother's Day, Cinco de Mayo, and Memorial Day. These are great opportunities to spend time with family and friends, and to reflect on the things you're grateful for.

My May Bucket list:

• Get my garden in.
• Celebrate events big and small as much as possible.
• Plan a short weekend trip.

May is a month of transition. It's a time of change and growth. So embrace the changes that are coming and use them as an opportunity to start fresh. What do you hope to accomplish in May?

A Run for the Roses

I can't believe it is that time of year again. You know it is spring when it is time for the Kentucky Derby. The Kentucky Derby is a horse race that is held annually on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. It is the first leg of the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Racing, which also includes the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes. The Kentucky Derby is one of the most popular sporting events in the United States, and it attracts a large crowd of spectators each year. It is also no secret that I absolutely adore the day, whether at Churchill Downs, some other track, or just watching from home.

The Kentucky Derby is the oldest continuously run sporting event in the United States, and it has been held every year since 1875. There are so many reasons to celebrate the event. First of all, the Kentucky Derby is known for its elaborate hats and fashions. What is not to love about that? Second, the Kentucky Derby is a very exciting race. Often called the most exciting 2 minutes in sports, the race is 1.25 miles long, and it is often close and competitive. Third, the Kentucky Derby is a very glamorous event.

I always make it a priority to get myself a new dress and hat each year for the event as well. To me the Derby is almost like a fashion runway for the upcoming season. Here are some of the trends that you can expect to see at the Derby this year:

• Bright colors: Bright colors are always popular at the Kentucky Derby, and this year is no exception. Expect to see lots of pink, yellow, green, and blue dresses.

This Vince Camuto dress would be a perfect Derby dress with its detail, bright color, and lady-like appeal.

• Floral prints: Floral prints are another popular trend for the Kentucky Derby. Look for dresses, skirts, and tops with delicate floral patterns. Afterall, the Derby is the "Run for the Roses"!

Above is a prefect budget friendly option from Venus. The one shoulder aspect is a big trend this spring as well. 

• Gingham: Gingham is a classic pattern that is always popular at the Kentucky Derby. Look for dresses, skirts, and shirts in gingham checks.

This LoveShack Fancy gingham dress would be absolutely perfect for the Derby as well. Plus it combines two new spring trends in one, gingham and floral! 

• Hats: Hats are a must-have for the Kentucky Derby. Look for large, elaborate hats and fascinators with feathers, flowers, and other embellishments.

You don't need to blow the budget finding the perfect hat either though. This fascinator above is from Amazon under $15!

No matter what your style, you're sure to find the perfect outfit for the Kentucky Derby this year. So, get creative and have fun with your fashion! I can't wait to reveal my dress for this year next weekend! Watch my Instagram for posts. Comment down below how you plan to celebrate.

April Showers

 April is a month of new beginnings... winter is officially over and warmer weather with brighter days is ahead. There is no better time to start enjoying the outdoors with the sun shining and the birds singing!

It is not only time to get the yard even ore ready and plant but also time to shift around the wardrobe and bury all those winter coats and heavy sweaters. I want to pull out my dresses and brighter colors. I want to see all the baby animals in nature and revel in seeing the robins return.

There are also so many wonderful things to celebrate in spring as well. Easter, Mother's Day... and let's not forget the Kentucky Derby!

My April "Bucket List" Items:

• Go to an outdoor farmers market.
• Go on a picnic.
• Be outside as much as possible.
• Try a new recipe with fresh ingredients for spring.

Spring is a time of renewal and rebirth, so it's the perfect time to get out and enjoy the outdoors. There are so many things to see and do in the spring, so get out there and make some memories!

Comment below: How are you celebrating this first full month of spring?