Baby Boy Half Year Birthday

My Outfit - Dress: Banana Republic (Old - Similar Here)
Baby Veer’s Outfit - Romper: Target

Happy Half Birthday to Baby Veer! These six months have flown by so fast and I swear time goes faster when you have a child. I wish time would slow down, things felt so slow in the first few weeks of coming home from the hospital but sped up like no other. Each day brings something new and fun. Being a mom is the best thing in the world!

To Veer, I love you very much and I am honored to be your mother. You always light up the room with your smile and bring us much joy. You make us complete in a way I could never have imagined.

Vendors:
Balloon Garland: Amazon
Cake Topper: Amazon
Cake: Taste by Spellbound

My Birthday and What I'm Grateful For

Dress: Zara (Similar HERE and HERE) / Booties: Steve Madden
Headband: Banana Republic / Bag: Chanel Classic Bag

December has to be one of my favorite months of the year. In keeping up with blog traditions, today I’m sharing a birthday outfit (first ever with a bump!) #stylethebump along with something sentimental. Usually each December is filled with endless holiday parties, dinner (last year we dined at the Four Seasons - one of the most beautiful buildings in Philadelphia!), a big party and full on glam. This year is definitely looks quite different for a number of reasons. At the beginning of 2020 I would have never thought we would be in the middle of a pandemic (and still are!) AND being pregnant! As my due date is fast approaching I’ve requested that we stay in, have some yummy cake, order dinner and celebrate – before we become a “party of three!”

Here are birthday blog posts from the past:

• 2019 – 5 Things I’ve Learned This Year

• 2018 – Birthday Q&A

• 2017 – 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Me

In keeping up with true blog birthday traditions today I’m sharing 5 Things I’m Grateful For.

5 Things I’m Grateful For

1. Loved Ones - This year, 2020, I am more than ever grateful for my loved ones. I’m also so grateful to have such a loving and supportive family in everything I do. I wouldn’t be where I am today without any of them.

2. Basic Necessities - I am grateful for my career and a roof over my head. It’s really sad to see what’s happening in today’s world especially this year.. people loosing their jobs, homelessness and not being able to provide for their families.

3. Travel & Experiences - I am forever blessed and grateful to have all the travel and experiences I have had the opportunity to have each year. This year I’ve learned to appreciate all the travel experiences I’ve had in the past especially with two big vacations being cancelled - India and then South Korea/Japan. I truly believe travel makes you learn and grow as a person.

4. Happiness - I am a pretty optimistic and positive person, which I never take for granted.

5. The Present - Don’t worry about tomorrow and enjoy the present as you can’t control the future. Be happy and appreciate what you have!

I am also grateful for all of YOU - Thank you for supporting me over the years on this blog journey!

Birthday Outfit and Five Things I've Learned This Year

Dress: Zara
(Similar options here and here)

Today I am turning the page on another year of life. My birthday week celebrations are off to a good start. Yesterday my Husband and I went to the Eagles Game with our good friends and although it was very rainy we still had a good time! Tonight the Hubby and I are off to the Four Seasons for my birthday dinner and cocktails. I’ve been waiting to check it out since it opened so this seemed like the perfect opportunity. I can’t wait to see the views and the floral decor designed by Jeff Leatham. Then to top it off, this coming weekend my friends are coming to visit (YAYY).

In par with my annual birthday post this year I am discussing 5 Things I’ve Learned This Year. Last year I did a blog post on a Birthday Q&A and the year before I did A Few Things You Didn’t Know About Me.

Here it goes!

5 Things I’ve Learned This Year

ONE Take time off and spend it with loved ones (Most Important) - Life’s too short to waste time with people who aren’t worth it. Dedicate more time to those that matter. Also, as we all get caught up with our busy schedules, remember to take a moment and to spend it with those you love.

TWO Take care of yourself - I’m not saying forget everyone around you, but if you can’t take care of yourself how are you going to take care of others? Take care of your health, happiness and whatever is important to you.

THREE Focus on what you have instead of what you don’t have - I’d like to say that many of us probably consider ourselves to be very lucky and grateful individuals. But it’s easy to get caught up in the world of the ‘gram and to compare yourselves to others. Instead, appreciate all the good things that have happened and the opportunities and experiences you’ve had. It’s all a matter of perspective and shifting your focus. Once that happens your whole attitude will change.

FOUR Don’t take things too seriously - There’s a time and place for everything understandably, BUT, you don’t have to be serious 100% of the time. My husband says I’m a kid at heart (seriously can we go back to Disney again?!) but the best medicine is laughter. That’s the fun part of this thing called life.

FIVE If you’re going to do something do it right - I hate half-assing things. Whether it’s going to workout, blogging, eating right, etc. find what works for YOU. For instance, I like to be home from work at a decent time in the evenings so I go to the gym during my work day, granted I work for a company that has amazing classes and a gym facility, but I stick to a schedule and block time off on my calendar for it. Make a schedule and stick with it. You’ll thank me later!

Thank you so much to everyone who has made me feel so loved on my special day.

Birthday Outfit and Birthday Q&A

Velvet Bodysuit: Zara / Leather Skirt: Zara (Similar) /Tights: Spanx
Earrings: DFTI (Similar) / Booties: Sam Edelman

Today on this day, I am another year older and wiser. As I’ve said before, December is one of my favorite months out of the year. It’s always so wonderful to spend time with loved ones, sip on hot cocoa, attend holiday parties, warm cozy sweaters and wearing ugly Christmas sweaters… oh and My Birthday!

We kicked off my birthday celebrations over the weekend by hosting our closest friends at our home on Saturday for dinner and drinks (and the yummiest ice cream cake from Scoop DeVille). This was followed by some amazing karaoke in our private room at Lair KTV. Today we will be going to dinner at one of my favorite steak places in the city, Del Friscos. I can't believe how quickly this year has gone by and I feel so blessed each and every single day.

I usually have a fun post for my blog on my birthday. Last year I did this post and told you guys 10 things you didn’t know about me. This year I wanted to do a Q&A where I asked my wonderful followers on Instagram about anything they wanted! So here is goes!

BIRTHDAY Q&A

PERSONAL

How long have you been married for? How did you and your husband meet?

The hubby and I have been married for 4 years and we’ve been together for a few years before that. We met many years ago when we were younger through our place of worship. We drifted apart for many years but reunited in Philadelphia through a mutual friend!

What’s been your favorite place that you have traveled too? Do you have any upcoming travel plans?

I love to travel and to explore new places. Honestly it gives me something to look forward too and just to experience new things in the world and see how others in the world live is such an amazing experience. This year we made two big trips - the first was to Santorini and Mykonos in Greece in May and then we went to India in October. Our next travel plans include a trip to Connecticut followed by Arizona where my in-laws live. I love going out there in the winter time because it’s so nice and warm! We will definitely have some amazing trips coming up next year so stay tuned!

What did you go to school for?

I attended the University of Connection (UCONN) - Go Huskies and I went to school for Accounting. I have both my Bachelor of Science and my Masters both in Accounting.

What book are you currently reading?

Currently I am reading the Alchemist. I also recently finished all three books in the Crazy Rich Asians series by Kevin Kwan - Crazy Rich Asians, China Rich Girlfriend, and Rich People Problems. I highly recommend them!

What’s your favorite investment bag?

Hands down my favorite investment bag would be Chanel. Chanel in general really holds it value and is worth every penny. Their bags are also stunning and well made! You can read my review on the Chanel mini I got last year for my birthday here.

Will you be doing a home tour or a tour of your closet?

I am super flattered that you all want to see my home and closet! I currently don’t have any plans to do a home tour or closet tour but I did post about our living room last year which you can read here.

What is your favorite place to eat in Philadelphia?

There are so many awesome places! My favorites include -
Top Choice: Zahav
(This year on Valentine’s Day my husband surprised me and took me here. I also got to meet Michael Solomonov who was soo nice!)
Steaks: Del Friscos
Burgers: Dandelion and Pub & Kitchen
Sushi: Royal Izakaya
Salads: Sweetgreen
Dessert: Franklin Fountain

BEAUTY/STYLE

Who is your celebrity style inspiration?

There are so many that inspire! First off and foremost I would have to say my mother is a style inspiration to me! I would also have to say Natalie Portman, Victoria Beckham, Olivia Wilde, Michelle Obama - so timeless and classic, Deepika Padukone and Sonam Kapoor.

Where do you shop/what are your favorite stores?

Zara, Nordstrom, ASOS, Sephora

How do you curl your hair and what products do you use?

I use a 1 1/4 inch Hot Tools curling iron. I try not to use too many products on my hair. My everyday curls usually consist of brushing my hair out, curling, then using hairspray. I use Garnier for hair spray - I go through so much it doesn’t make sense to splurge on hair spray.

What are your staple makeup products?

I use the following products everyday:

Foundation - Lancome
Concealer - Tarte
Color Corrector - Becca
Setting Powder - Laura Mercier
Highlighter - Becca
Eyebrow Pencil - Anastasia Beverly Hills
Lip - Kat Von D
Mascara - Dior
Blush - Too Faced
Contour Palette - Smashbox
Eyeshadow - Stila

Do you have hair extensions? How do you keep your hair so healthy?

I don’t have hair extensions nor have I ever wore them. My hair is pretty healthy - or at least that’s what all the hair stylists tell me. I have never colored my hair nor have I gotten any chemicals put on my hair (no keratin treatment, etc). I don’t plan on doing that since it really damages your hair!

Will you be doing any beauty tutorials?
This is something I have been thinking about doing something for a while but have not yet gotten around to it! Keep a look out on my YouTube channel and make sure to subscribe!

BLOGGING

Why did you get into blogging?

I always wanted to have a job in the beauty and fashion industry but I went into business in college and received my Accounting degrees. Blogging is an outlet for myself to have a connection with that industry and I’ve truly enjoyed every minute of it.

What do you do for a living? Do you blog full time?

I am a full time Accountant in Philadelphia and I blog on the side!

Who takes all your blog photos?

My wonderful husband takes all my photos and this blog wouldn’t exist without him.
Thank you so much!!!

How long does a blog post usually take to write?

It takes a long time! There’s alot that goes into a blog post that people don’t see or know. From the initial brainstorming, getting ready and styling outfits, shooting content, editing photos to actually writing the post (which is probably my least favorite part). I usually see what’s coming up a few weeks before (vacations, holidays, birthday, etc) and start planning backwards from there.

What are the struggles that come with blogging?

With any business especially one that’s yours, you can’t ever really “turn it off.” I work full time and do blogging on the side so my “free time” is pretty much taken up! Also, with the weather it’s harder to take photos during the week during the winter months since it gets dark out so early. We’ve been taking photos during the weekends. Bloggers make things look so glamorous and portraying (and that just comes with the job) but there is soo much more that goes into it! Additionally, when you’re blogging you are sharing so much of your life with others and that can be hard to draw a line of what to share and what not to share. It’s also important not to get caught up with what others are doing and just do you!!

Whats your favorite thing about blogging?

One of my favorite things is meeting new people and attending events! I’ve made some wonderful connections through blogging especially here in Philadelphia!

I hope you all enjoyed this post! From the bottom of my heart thank you all so much for your support!

My Birthday and Emerald Jumpsuit (Plus A Few Things You Didn't Know About Me)

Jumpsuit: Urban Outfitters / Nude Heels: Sam Edelman
Handbag: Saint Laurent / Watch: Movado Bold / Earrings: Givenchy

I have to say that December is one of my favorite months of the year. December is a month for warm sweaters, hot cocoa, holiday parties, and (drumroll please)... My Birthday! I celebrated my birthday over the weekend and had such an amazing time. I can't believe how quickly this year has gone by and I feel so blessed.

I thought this emerald jumpsuit was the perfect ensemble for my birthday. I rarely wear jumpsuits but I instantly fell in love with this one the moment I saw it. This pleated jumpsuit has a pretty mockneck and is nipped at the waist creating a nice definition to the waistline (it also has an adjustable tie drawstring). The jumpsuit has wide-legs so I opted to pair nude heels with this look. I linked some of my favorite jumpsuits below.

In order to celebrate my birthday, I wanted to do something a little different from my usual blog posts. I wanted to share with you a couple of fun facts about myself! I hope this will give you a peak into my life and get to know me a little better. Thank you all so much for reading and showing all your support over the years!

1. I grew up in a small town in Connecticut. There were probably more cows than people there at some point.

2. I had a phase in life where I was such a tomboy. I remember I used to wear windbreaker pants and baggy sweatshirts - oh and my favorite color used to be blue. Somewhere along the way I became super girly-girl and my favorite color is pink!

3. When I was younger my parents tried to get me into every sport imaginable - tennis, basketball, volleyball, golf, swimming - you name it! I like to think I'm still somewhat athletic.

4. I am super clumsy and easily trip and/or bump into things - No joke! Actually a few weeks ago I tripped and took a tumble down the stairs bringing the laundry down (the same day I got back from Hawaii so I must have been half asleep). It kind of reminded me when I was little and used to go "sledding" down the stairs with a blanket.

5. I got my Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and also got my Masters in Accounting as well. I also worked for a Big 4 Accounting firm after college for a few years.

6. My favorite foods consist of pizza and the nachos with queso. I mean I do love other foods but those two are my go-to's for a night in.

7. I have really thick hair (I guess that's a good thing!) and whenever I wash my hair it's such a process - wash/condition, blow-dry, straighten, curl. I usually plan out when I'm washing it (especially around events) and what's happening each day. Seriously it's no joke.

8. I am addicted to anything and everything on Bravo. I will watch anything that comes on this channel. My favorites are Shah's of Sunset, Below Deck, Vanderpump Rules, Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, New York, and also Orange County.

9. I love to travel! My husband and I are always thinking about where to go next. Our last trip together was Hawaii and our next big trip coming up is Greece!

10. I love Star Wars. Anytime any of them are on TV I always watch them. I've been meaning to dress up as Princess Leia one year for Halloween. Oh, and I'm super excited about the new movie, The Last Jedi, coming out this weekend!

Bonus: My husband and I met many years ago. We drifted apart for many years as I was living in Connecticut and he was in Pennsylvania.  A mutual friend who was going to school in Philadelphia tried to set us up but we already knew each other and figured things would not work out! Well, we started spending time together and really enjoyed each other's company. The rest was history!