SO YOU MOVED....NOW WHAT

We have been living on the east coast for a little over a month now and I have to admit, it's been an adjustment. Although we like all there is to do here, my husband is doing a job completely different  than what he is used to, and I am still trying to figure out a routine for myself. I consider myself a person who likes change (7 moves in the last 12 years), but it usually takes me a couple of months to get into a groove. 

In an effort to set a routine for myself, I have been going back to my tried and true "Relocation Survival Guide", and wanted to share what has helped me adapt over the years.

1. Seek employment- I always like to look at the job prospects prior to a move. I like to network and find that utilizing social media to do so has been beneficial. There are many resources available for job seekers and sometimes looking for a full-time job is a full-time job!

2. Volunteer- Find a cause that is important to you and give back! You can add that experience to your resume and it's a great way to gain experience in a new field if that's something you are looking for. 

3. Find a church- This has always been a big priority for us. We attend church regularly and try to get involved in small groups wherever we live. It's a great way to meet new people! 

4. Join a social group- Find a group with common interests such as a book club, running group, or MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers). If you are a military family, there is always the FRG (Family Readiness Group or your unit's spouse's group. You can check out this link to find social groups available in your area https://www.meetup.com/ or search social media. 

5. Find a hobby or learn a new skill- If you have always wanted to learn more about photography or knitting, this may be the perfect time. Maybe you want to learn web design or improve your cooking skills! The sky is the limit!

6. Make your house a home- I know that some people don't really want to take the time to get completely settled into a place they are only going to be living in temporarily. To each his own! While our time on the east coast is short, I have already made our house feel cozy and inviting! 

7. Explore your new city- Look up local events and happenings. Check out the food scene or nightlife. Visit surrounding cities or attractions. Even if you live in a small town, get to know your surroundings and you might be surprised by what you find. I plan on making a bucket list for us to try to complete while we are here!

Road trip heading east!

As much as I like change, I know that it is hard to move and leave your home, your family, and your friends behind. Just remember that whether this change is permanent, or for a season, try to make the most of it. Embrace the adventure! 

FRIDAY FAVORITES

Happy Friday! Although this week has certainly flown by, I am more than ready for the weekend! We've got a few fun things to look forward to as well as some things I need to get done around the house.

It's Restaurant Week in our new city which means you can try any of the participating restaurants and enjoy a 3 course lunch or dinner for a fraction of the price. I have enjoyed going through the prix fixe
menus to see which one we want to try (which are several!). Note to self, I better make reservations today! But first, I've got a fun list of all the things I have been loving lately!

My favorite thing this week was definitely going out for a girls night with my friend Emily. We are fortunate that her and her family also live in the same city and it was so nice to catch up with her! We ate at Mamma Luisa, a local Italian favorite,  and it was very good, and we had excellent service! For dessert we picked up some treats at a candy shop and then headed back to her place. We decided we need to have girls night a few times a month!

Our rental has a small office space and I was thrilled when my hubby said I could have the space and decorate however I want. I love all of the natural light and the french doors!! It also has a built in desk with lots of storage! I am almost done with the decor but I want to add a small rug and I am looking to replace the pillows with some smaller ones. I will post all the details once its complete!

During our move, I lost my beloved dry shampoo. I was looking for a more affordable replacement recently and the lady at Ulta suggested this one for my darker hair. I didn't want to commit to a full size bottle so I picked up a smaller one to try out. So far so good! I do want to add that I saw some full size bottles at our local TJ Maxx store for $7.99!

I had only heard good things about a local donut place (Ma's Donuts) and when my husband surprised me with a box this week, I decided I am a fan! It might have to be a regular thing for us. I especially loved their coconut cake donut! 

Well, that's all I've got! Have a great weekend!

A BEAUTY SURVEY

Well we didn't have a super eventful weekend, so instead of a recap today, I am linking up with The Blended Blog for a little beauty survey :). I love reading these type of surveys because I always get great suggestions for products I otherwise may not consider purchasing!

1. Eyelash Curler Yes or No? Nope. I have been blessed with semi long lashes and all I need is a little mascara to add length and curl. I am a loyal user of this Loreal mascara!
2. Favorite Nail Shade? This usually depends on the season but I tend to be drawn to deep reds. 
3. Favorite Lipstick Shade? Right now I am loving the Tarte "FOMO" shade. 
4. Blow Dry or Air Dry your hair? I usually let my hair air dry unless I have to wash it last minute and have somewhere to be.
5. Artificial Nails Yes or No? No, last time I had fake nails was for my wedding almost 14 years ago. 
6. Foundation Yes or No? Oh yeah! 
7. Hair Up or Down? Down
8. Bar Soap of Body Wash? I have used Aveeno body wash for the longest time but I recently switched to a bar of soap made with turmeric and orange.
9. Bath or Shower? Shower
10. Favorite Body Lotion? I am terrible about being consistent with lotion but if I do, its usually Cera Ve moisturizing lotion or something from Bath & Body Works. 
11. Do you wear perfume? If so, what scent? Yes and I alternate between Curve and Chanel "Chance". However, I find that the Chanel makes me a bit nauseous because it's a bit strong, which pains me because it was pricey!
12. Do you shave your legs every day? Every other day works for me although it wouldn't hurt to do it every day because I have very coarse hair and feel like a walking cactus sometimes!
13. Favorite Lip Balm? I have yet to find one I love that will keep my lips moisturized :(. 
14. How old were you when you first started wearing make-up? In my early teens. 

HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING TIPS

Today I am linking up with Sarah and Victoria for their Most Wonderful Time of the Year linkup!

Other than Friendsgiving, we won't be hosting any holiday gatherings this year. However, I do have 2 baby showers I am either co-hosting/hosting, in the next couple of weeks, and you better believe I try to implement some of these same tips when planning those as well.

These tips are ones that I have learned over time. I have also come to learn that you don't have to use all of your fancy dinnerware in order to have a beautiful party. There are so many options for plastic/paper dinnerware that can look good and all you gotta do is toss in the trash! Easy clean up- sign me up :)

You would never know these are disposable! You can get them on Amazon. 

Tablescape from Friensgiving where I used paper napkins instead of cloth ones. 

1. Party prep- Get as much as you can done ahead of time. I have often procrastinated and then feel like I am running around like a chicken with my head cut off throwing clutter in closets. Out of sight, out of mind! If someone offers to help, take them up on it. Whether that be set up, bringing a dish to share, or helping with clean up.

2. Food- What's on the menu? This is probably one of the things I spend the most time on. This can range from a sit down dinner to finger foods or even a potluck! Whatever the choice is, I want the food to be plentiful and enjoyed!

3. Atmosphere- I like to set the mood with music, lighting and festive fragrances. I want my home to feel inviting! Let your guests known where the restroom is and make room in the coat closet if you have one. If someone is new to the group, try to help them connect with someone else! I have been to parties where the only person I knew was the hostess and it can be awkward!

4. Decor- It doesn't have to be expensive but a little can go a long way!

5. Relax- This is an important one for me. Be intentional about truly enjoying the party! People can sense when you are tense! 

WEEKLY FAVORITES

Happy Friday! This has been a surprisingly busy week for me. So much so that I am going to take today and focus on all the things that have been neglected (i.e. cleaning bathrooms, vacuuming and putting away the laundry I folded at the beginning of the week)! I recently started helping my brother with marketing his business and I didn't realize how much time it would take! However, I find that I am really enjoying it and it gives me the experience I am looking for, while taking a load off of his never-ending to-do list. It's a win win!

With that being said, as busy as the week has been, I have a list of things that have become my favorite this week! I like to reflect on the little things that bring a smile to my face and this is what I have come up with :)

1. This perfume right here. It's liquid gold. Smells yummy and my honey is a fan! Not cheap, but worth it. I will probably only use it on special occasions :)

2. My sister in law sent me this photo of my niece in her OOTD! That girl can pose! I suggested a top knot to finish off the look!

3. I had discussed a charcuterie and wine night with some friends and all the talk came to fruition last night. About 10 ladies gathered around yummy food and wine and chatted the night away!

4. And because I am loving all things fall I also picked up this soap :)

5. I recently found a new sitter for my beloved dog and it makes my heart happy that she loves him almost as much as I do!

Well friends! That's all I've got. I am looking forward to a long weekend with my hubby. No grand plans on the agenda which will be nice considering our weekends have been busy the last couple of months.

WEEKEND RECAP

After spending the last few days with my family, I made the 4 hour trek back to my home sweet home today. The reason for this trip was to celebrate my dad's 60th birthday, but I made sure to squeeze in some other fun as well, to include a fall craft and mug exchange (separate post coming soon)! 

All of my siblings with my dad.

These ladies are just too much fun!

I stayed up way past my bed time and was struggling to get up on Sunday morning. After a tasty breakfast, we managed to make it to church and then my sister in law and I went to the local Michaels for a crafting class. We made a flower arrangement which we inserted inside of a pumpkin. Perfect addition to my fall decor! 

Once we completed our craft, we headed to the mall to look for a dress. I have an event coming up next weekend and had yet to decide what I was going to wear. After looking at a few options I got real lucky and scored a killer deal on this dress right here. I instantly fell in love with a color, which I was surprised by considering I gravitate towards black dresses most of the time. Stay tuned for event photos!

Although I had a wonderful weekend, I am happy to be home with my husband and pup :)

FALL BUCKET LIST

Well it's officially fall! Now I won't lie, summer has always been my favorite season, but there is something about the crisp air, colorful leaves, sweaters and boots that make me smile.  I compiled a list of things I want to do this season and while I kept it basic, it gives me something to look forward to!

Host a bonfire with s'mores

Bake for others

Go on a weekend getaway

Try a new soup recipe

Make a fall wreath

Purchase fall scented candles

Mug exchange (happening this weekend)

Attend a fall festival, pumpkin patch or corn maze

What's on your list?

Thursday Thoughts

1. I just came home from a 6 day trip to see family and I am feeling the urge to detox! I had so much yummy food and little exercise. However, I had a great time with family and friends and totally worth the additional calories :)

2. We have a  formal military event in a couple of weeks. I have 3 dresses which I have hung up on the pantry door in an effort to steer clear of the treats! I am really looking forward to getting dolled up and seeing my man in his uniform!!!

3. I purchased these items over the weekend this concealer and this eyeliner in the color Whiskey. I have read great reviews on the concealer and I will make sure to review my thoughts on both.

4. My husband and I have some financial goals we would like to work towards in the next few years. I am in charge of setting up our budget and boy has it been eye opening!

5. I would like to dye my hair at some point in the next couple of months. Here are a few of the looks I am thinking I would like. The first one is a bit more subtle and hubby was a fan, but I love the second one. Decisions decisions!