Umm, how is August over already? I swear that this month went away in the blink of an eye over here.

What I/We did

We had all the intention of a packed fun month, but as usual, the month got away from us with unexpected events and stuff.

We started it on a really fun note with a step back in time when we visited the Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa, a place that I’ve had on my list for quite a while. The museum is small but mighty and I greatly enjoyed seeing the original furnishings and learning more about Tampa’s history, and what once was the iconic Tampa Bay Hotel. I thoroughly drooled over decor details and opulent pieces and I couldn’t resist leaving without a few beautiful items from the museum shop. Overall, I definitely recommend visiting it — you don’t need more than 1-2 hours there; if open, do venture into the University of Tampa adjacent to it for more beautiful details. Tip: The museum holds a monthly free Saturday — check out their events calendar for details.

P.S. If you want to read more about Henry B. Plant, the man who undoubtedly changed Tampa, as well as other museum facts, check out Nora’s Blog.

This month, I’ve also put together my wishlist for fall which is coming soon to the blog.

What else we did this August? Dealt with another sickness episode from Enzo (that left me exhausted especially emotionally), and, of course, weathered the first hurricane of the season. For the last few days, we have been prepping and anxiously waiting. While we personally weren’t too much affected, we did wake up on an island basically, aka, surrounded by flooded water.

August BLOG POSTS ROUNDUP

I published a good mix of things this past month on the blog. Here’s a roundup:

A dress so nice I bought it twice... part II. The dress I couldn’t resist the moment I saw it.

A dress so nice I bought it twice. The “original” dress that I loved so much, I had to buy it in two colorways. I see myself wearing these a lot as they’re perfect for any occasion.

Must-read books. A list of the best books I’ve ever read, so far (might update it with new titles as I discover them). Have you read any of these?

If fall shopping's on your mind... Yup, it’s the season, and per usual, the retail world is ready — some of the offerings are simply irresistible.

Likes and dislikes. A fun little post I put together with things I like and dislike in this world of ours.

5 things that bring me joy this week. This weekly series showcases a collection of seemingly insignificant things that serve as a reminder to appreciate the little things — those small joys that make a difference in our day-to-day.

What I bought

I didn’t shop a lot this past month as I have been holding off for the Labor Day sales 😊. I’m eyeing Banana Republic Factory, J.Crew, and a few specific items from various retailers.

Here’s what I bought in August:

This dress, of course.

This straw bag that is already sold out.

This greenhouse to safely grow/keep some plants from someone’s little teeth.

These peonies (I found them in pink — pictured above) that I bought on a whim. I generally dislike artificial flowers, but I was “craving” them and I can’t have the real deal anymore because a special someone’s obsessively trying to eat them.

What I read

The Phantom Tree by Nicola Cornick. As mentioned in my must-read books post, I picked up The Phantom Tree book, the second novel from the New Timeslip series almost as soon as I heard about it. I thoroughly enjoyed the first story, and this one was no different — I devoured it!

What we watched

Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan. My husband got me into this show and we just wrapped it up with their final season 4. It started almost painfully slow but it gets so good toward the end. If you’re into thrillers, I definitely recommend it.

Murder Mystery II. We found it entertaining enough — a good choice for a relaxing evening at home.

Riverdale. This show started with so much potential and went downhill so fast! I think we can all agree that it’s a good thing it ended.

Nancy Drew. Overall, we really enjoyed this show and are somewhat sad it’s over. Mystery, magic, and a little bit of romance — a good mix to keep us entertained and even on the edge of our seats at times. Recommend.

The Summer I Turned Pretty. I kind of got over the back and forth, and the overall sad theme in season two of The Summer I Turned Pretty, but enjoyed it nonetheless.

What caught my eye on the internet

Why You Can't Wear White After Labor Day, Explained. On theme, but please do wear white after Labor Day if you fancy it.

14 Fall Road Trips for Stunning Scenery Around the U.S. If you fancy some fall trips.

This Dreamy Cottage Was Designed for Summertime Snoozes. Count me in!

Minnesota’s North Shore Drive in the Fall. Lesser known, yet, just as breathtaking.

Eileen Isagon Skyers: In the age of AI art, what can originality look like? I think many have been asking this question, and here’s one take on it.

40 Dark Humor Memes That Will Appeal to Your Dark Side.

Well, you were a weird one, August… now make room for September.