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Finally Feeling Fall

Happy Fall 2024! Personally, I had a tough transition into the Fall 2024 season as I’ve shared on my Instagram (follow me @_thepinkchickadee) which is probably a first for me. However, to kick off Day 1 of Fall 2024, I blasted a Fall movie marathon thanks to the Hallmark Channel, decorated for Fall around my apartment, walked my dog Rosie in a Fall outfit (Hunter Boots crushing on a few leaves on trails included!!!), lit some Fall-scented candles, and cozied up in a Fall-themed pajama set. Now, I am officially excited to kick off Fall 2024! I am finally feeling Fall y’all!!!

Let’s just say that Summer 2024 was not an easy one for me. While I won’t get into the details of what all went down, I will say that as Fall approached, I was pretty disappointed to let Summer go. I was REALLY sad to see my favorite season of the year go without much time to enjoy it (with the exception of two GREAT trips that I still cherish memories from – one to the Midwest to visit my best friend Lindsay and another to Hawaii to visit my friend Maxwell with Bryn – alongside some special memories made close to home). When I got back from Hawaii, it started to hit me that Summer was *literally* slipping through my fingers as if I was cueing the popular song from Mamma Mia! And I felt sad to see a change. However, through it all though, I have finally come to accept that Fall is near and am … *finally* feeling Fall!!!

With the gateway to Fall comes the gateway to the holiday season aka a FAVORITE season of mine. I LOVE how Fall brings people together in the midst of pumpkin patches, pumpkin spiced lattes, and pumpkin decorations GALORE amongst many other Fall things. I adore the Fall season (and this Summer-Fall transition is unusual for me hence the initial disappointment!). I am a HUGE pumpkin spiced latte fan and find joy in enjoying a daily pumpkin-flavored morning coffee and an *occasional* PSL run to Starbucks. I LOVE the feeling of crushing leaves on my feet as I walk my dog Rosie. I take JOY in seeing decorations to commemorate the Fall season at every turn. And, I cherish the excitement that others have with the joy Fall brings to us all.

I strive to find joy in all of the seasons of the year. At the end of the day, we only get 1 Fall per year. That is 18 Falls in our childhood and 10 Falls per decade following our childhood. As crazy as it sounds, we only have a number of Falls in our lives (whether a big or small number). We must take the time to enjoy and savor the Fall moments in our lives. Just like the Summers we cherish with lasting memories and longer days of sunlight, we must do the same with the Falls that we have. While the days of sunlight may be shorter, the memories we make can be cherished just as much. We must enjoy the pumpkin patches, the Fall festivals, the Hallmark Channel movies, the candles, and *even* a pumpkin spiced latte. I hope YOU find the joy in all of the seasons, including Fall, too!

For now, I will be enjoying wearing my Hunter Boots again on repeat while the leaves crush on my feet with a pumpkin spiced latte in hand and a breath of that crisp Fall air. Wherever you are this Fall season, I hope YOU can find that joy and love for the season in front of us. Indeed, we can make it a GREAT one if we want to!

XOXO – Katie <3

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Where to Meet Friends in a New City

One of THE things that was most challenging for me in my first few years after college was meeting new friends in a brand-new city. For context, I moved back to the Washington, DC/Northern Virginia area after 4 years of college in Raleigh, North Carolina with *very few* Summers home in between (read my moving announcement here!). That all being said, it was quite a challenge to meet friends after 4 years away from my city. I pretty much had to start all over again. Nevertheless, 3 years (and counting!) since my relocation back to the nation’s capital, I feel SO fortunate to say that I have an incredible network of friends (and family too!) in my city. But, there was a time where I wondered where to meet friends in a new city.

I remember relocating back to the Washington, DC area thinking it would be like moving into my North Carolina college dorm – social events at every turn and sooooo many opportunities to meet and mingle with peers. HOWEVER, moving into my apartment post-graduation was VERYYYY different. College is the last stepping stone for some and high school for others where we don’t have to put much effort into making meaningful connections and friends. However, once we leave the academic world, it becomes much trickier to meet friends and even future partners to date. Facing this new and rather dreadful reality, I recall laying in bed some nights so upset that I hadn’t found a community in my new city. It was tough as others in my network, whether coworkers or former high school classmates, had lots of college friends relocate to the Washington, DC area which made things a bit easier (however, new city or not, early post-graduation years are TOUGH for all and many want to make new connections). I remember feeling SO sad and down and discouraged that I would NEVER find a community. Hence, I asked myself: where to meet friends in a new city?! And, hence, you may also be asking that same question.

Now, for some of my personal key takeaways that I’ve found to be impactful during my post-graduation years in making new friends and where to meet friends in a new city:

Key Takeaways:

Takeaway 1 – The biggest step to meeting new friends is … to put yourself out there and admit it. YES – that daunting first step is to admit that you want to make new friends and put yourself in those *maybe* out of the comfort zone experiences to reap those benefits. Unlike high school and college, we HAVE to put in the effort to meet others and make new friends. Go to events alone and don’t be afraid to. The best part?!?! Getting out of your comfort zone helps you GROW! And, if an event isn’t a success in meeting others, then, that is OKAY. The more you put yourself out there, the more likely you will be to find your community in your new city.

Takeaway 2 – Find a community or network of interest. The best place to meet others that are likeminded?! Join a special interest group! Note that this one will look different for everybody, based on our own special interests. For example, many major cities have their own sports leagues or exercise groups. My best friend Shivani has met friends through tennis and pure barre. There are also book clubs at several local libraries and bookstores in ALL genres and can also be found websites such as Goodreads (I think?! I know a basic Google search knows this one!), which my friend Ashley has joined. In Washington, DC, I have joined the City Girls Who Walk DC community on Discord and while I am not an active member yet, I do adore their content and have been inspired by my friends Stephanie and Brittany to join, as they have actually attended their events! The best way to start is to do basic Google searches, follow local influencers who focus on things to do in your city (and see what communities interact with their content/who they follow), and check out sites like Facebook, Meetup, and Eventbrite. As for myself, I will be taking a class and meetup soon with DC Mahj, am in the process of applying to a local Daughters of the American Revolution Chapter, and skimming on occasion the City Girls Who Walk DC Discord channel (hopefully I attend an event soon and can change this!) alongside the DC Influence social media channels (which I have attended some events through!). There is definitely something going on and there will likely be something of interest to you, too!

Takeaway 3 – Google where to meet friends in a new city and the first result says …. online. However, online meetings may or may not be the best fit. Indeed, some online platforms may work better for you than others. I’ll be honest: I tried Bumble BFF and didn’t find any friends that I still have today. While I am grateful for the connections made (some of which I still have!), I am also grateful that I gave it a whirl. Bumble BFF was my first channel to get out of my comfort zone and meet others. Instagram can work, too, if you’re in communities such as blogging or join a local influencer of interest’s community/events. I have definitely seen more results through Instagram, as I met one of my BEST friends (while not in Washington, DC) Lindsay of @sunshineandstairclimbs through our blogs alongside several other incredible bloggers, influencers, and small business owners.

Takeaway 4 – Oddly enough, I have found networking to be a GREAT way to make friends and connections. Whether in my 9-5 or beyond, networking is a GREAT way to establish friendships and meaningful connections. Funny enough, I met two of my best friends Brittany and Briana in an .. elevator. We were at a holiday networking event leaving and just really hit it off! I was fortunate enough to be apart of a Northern Virginia-based young professional leadership program during the 2023-2024 year and met several young professionals in my city – some of which are now friends! Networking can be daunting (this is something I want to share more insights on soon, too!), but can seriously be sooooo rewarding in the end. Networking can ALSO be used beyond the professional world too and in our personal lives and communities of special interest, too, especially when meeting new friends.

Takeaway 5 – Be patient. Just like in college and high school years, finding a community takes time and is an ever-evolving process. Even after feeling like I have established a great network and community of people in my own city, I still am always looking to expand and evolve within my community, too. It took time for my community to come together, but the universe (or any higher power if you believe in one!) is truly working in mysterious ways ALL THE TIME. Just know, it’s coming. Don’t worry!

Takeaway 6 – Always do YOU. Be yourself, because everyone else is already taken. Yes, I know that this can be sort of a cliche quote that is ALWAYS shared, but this quote has a lot of truth to it. There is only one you. Don’t try to conform to others’ expectations or strive to change parts of yourself to make yourself more likable to others. Simply, just be YOU. The right people will come to you over time and they’re so worth the wait.

Takeaway 7 – Keep in touch with your friends that you’ve moved away from. Through it all though, I think it is SO important to make time for your friends who you may no longer live close to anymore. It WILL be worth it. I find it SO nice to be able to have a free place to stay in my former city (and/or my friend’s new city) when I want a weekend away alongside *of course* time with my friend and vice versa when they come to visit you! At the same time, sadly, not all friends from your previous city will be meant for the long haul and sustain your move. And, guess what?! That is OKAY. I remember feeling SO SAD that not all of my friendships from college and in Raleigh stuck in my post-graduation years in the nation’s capital. But, those friendships that did stick are the ones that I cherish and am SOOOO grateful for. Trust me, that phrase “friends come and go” reigns true especially when moves are involved.

Wrap-Up:

While moving to a new city is SO exciting and a great way to gain independence and experience new things as well as for our own personal development, it can also be daunting having to start all over in a brand-new place. Where to meet friends is not a one-size fits all answer either. In fact, meeting friends can be difficult and take time, but we have to give ourselves grace and space to find our own communities. It won’t happen overnight, but when it does, cherish it and the community you will establish and have.

XOXO – Katie <3

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The Life of Katie!

Since getting back from Hawaii earlier this month, I have had nothing short of an emotional roller coaster that’s ended in feeling so much gratitude for where I’ve been and what’s in store for me moving forward. I have been sharing tons of Hawaii content over on my Instagram (follow me @_thepinkchickadee) and I STILL feel as if I’m in multiple mega “pinch me” moments realizing that I was in the Aloha State to kick off September 2024. My week on Hawaii was incredible and such a blessing to me. Getting to spend time with my friends Bryn and Maxwell (our amazing host and tour guide!) all across most of Oahu and Maui was AMAZING!!!! Truly, a dream come true to me!

I loved over these past few weeks either preparing for the trip to Hawaii, getting to explore and take photos in Hawaii, or organizing my apartment and looking through ALLLL the almost 1,000 photos that I took on my camera while in Hawaii once I got home. Pinch me now!!! Most of my life recently has revolved around the empowerment that it took to go on such a huge trip (with 15+ hours of travel time each way!) and coming home feeling so empowered to take on all that comes my way back at home. But, at the same time, I have enjoyed taking on a new leadership role in my 9-5, time catching up with family and friends and my dog Rosie, and moments to focus on my wellness as it felt GREAT taking 10,000+ steps a day in Hawaii. Needless to say, my trip to Hawaii was truly transformative for my physical and mental wellbeing overall.

Now, as always, I bring y’all … recent life updates:

Wellness journey – I have started to make some recent health changes. While in Hawaii, I discovered (or finally realized) that I have a resistance to certain liquors, including tequila, rum, and vodka. I also have a major resistance to large amounts of sugar. Since cutting these high-sugar items out of my diet, it has been … groundbreaking. At the same time, I am starting to get in more steps, including during the work day, as I’m *confessions* one to simply sit at the desk all day long without many breaks up and at it. September is the time to change all of that.
Happy hours – While I do LOVE an excellent cocktail even if not as frequent, I do Stan being a wine-loving queen! I have enjoyed some happy hour moments (with wine!) with some friends and family and cohort classmates at Screwtop Wine Bar, Ozzie’s Good Eats, Barca, Virtue Feed and Grain, and Metrobar. At the same time, I have ALSO enjoyed some at-home happy hours with homemade Aperol spritzes and *of course* some wine!
Lilly Pulitzer Sunshine Sale & Lenox Spice Village – My first week home was a BIG shopping week for me. The September Lilly Pulitzer Sunshine Sale came around, which is my FAVORITE annual Lilly Pulitzer sale to stock up during (!!!!!). At the same time, Lenox released its iconic spice village again at its original price for preorder, which I may or may not have snagged the entire 24-piece collection of ….
Hawaii flight – I am beyond proud of myself for surviving the 11 hour flight from JFK Airport in New York City ALLLL the way to Honolulu. Bryn and I met up at JFK Airport after connecting flights from our respective cities and sat next to one another via the loooonggg haul to Honolulu. The same on the way back to the United States mainland (as Hawaiians call it!) as we flew from Honolulu to Detroit airport. Unfortunately, I have recently had trouble sleeping on flights which made me super sleep deprived on both long treks to and from Hawaii. Nevertheless, the crazy long amounts of travel time was SO WORTH IT, especially to see beautiful Hawaii when landing/taking off from our window seat!
Hawaii 2024 – aka one of THE BEST TRIPS I have ever taken!!! More in-depth content to come soon from this incredible trip. But, for now, enjoy some content on my journey to Manoa Falls and my Lilly Pulitzer holy grail moment at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel.
Car issues – UGHHHHH … sometimes I feel like I have THE WORST luck with car issues. Whenever they happen, it always seems that multiple issues pile up all at once. This time around was NO different when my car needed to go in for new front brakes and the back brakes started to malfunction. Needless to say, it feels super frustrating at times to have a huge lineup of car issues. ARGH!

Making an at-home Apple Cider Aperol Spritz

The incredible view when landing in Honolulu!

Bryn and I right before we took off at JFK!

The beautifully decorated doors at Virtue Feed and Grain

Happy hour with Stephanie at Screwtop Wine Bar!

More to come soon!

XOXO – Katie <3

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Why You Should Attend Events Solo

Last week, I attended an event solo that was a bit out of my comfort zone. Although I have solo traveled all across the Washington, DC area and even all the way to Ireland (here, here, and here), I still got a bit nervous about attending this event in-person, since it was a newer experience for me. I had always wanted to attend a DC Fashion Week event (an Insider’s Preview Party!), and despite being nervous to do so, I decided to attend this event solo and ended up having a GREAT time (and made some new connections, too!).

I am ALL about a good solo date. My best friend Shivani introduced me to the idea and I’ve been hooked ever since. I have seen several people in my network that I LOVE through my Instagram (follow me @_thepinkchickadee) and my close friends start doing dates on their own, too. I LOVE a good solo date and recommend them to EVERYONE, regardless of if you’re single, taken, and/or have kids/pets. However, events can be a bit more daunting to attend solo, especially in a new-to-you environment.

Being transparent over here, I ended up not going to a National Gallery of Art event solo because I was 1- tired, and 2 – a bit nervous to attend a bigger event solo. Yes, you heard me right, I was terrified to attend an event solo, despite having traveled all the way to Ireland and back just 4 weeks prior. Events can be daunting to attend solo, especially when it involves socializing and networking with others in a different setting than you’re used to and with tons of different faces around. As opposed to travel and solo dates where you pass by several people in groups and solo alike, events promote social interaction more so and can be much more nerve-wracking than walking to a restaurant and getting a table and opening up a book/your phone as you dine or strolling through a museum or even navigating the streets of a city. Events require socializing more so than solo travel and solo dates.

At the DC Fashion Week Insider’s Preview Party, I got to network with fellow fashion enthusiasts and influencers, alike. I got to make some great connections whom I’ve since connected with on social media. To top it all off, I got to see a fashion show showcasing Washington, DC area-based designers’ designs to preview for the upcoming Spring 2025 season. The designs were BEAUTIFUL (!!!!), and, spoiler that purple, emerald, and royal blue will be the big colors moving forward in the upcoming year. Needless to say, I am SO glad that I went to this event, despite my nerves convincing me to stay home.

When we get out of our comfort zones, that is when we grow! None of us will grow when we get REALLY comfortable in our current surroundings and environment and never jump out there and get *a bit* uncomfortable. Usually, it feels great to get out of our comfort zones once we do and it’s extremely rewarding in the end. The bottom line: attend that event that you’ve always wanted to attend, *even* if you’re going solo. In fact, going solo is a GREAT motivating factor in going, getting out of your comfort zone, growing, and having a great time.

XOXO – Katie <3

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The Life of Katie!

In recent times, I have been sharing monthly life updates (see May’s, June’s, and July’s), however, I have missed sharing updates on an-almost weekly basis with y’all! So, I am going to get back into that brief and more concise format of updates. I am excited to share more frequent life updates that are MUCH easier to put together than a monthly update. Needless to say, here we go!

August is one of my FAVORITE months and August 2024 has not disappointed so far. I truly love the Summer lull and the so-called dog days of Summer that August brings. To kick off August, I visited my best friend Lindsay in Indianapolis (see one of our adventures this time around here) and Chicago (here). We have decided to make a Summer Midwest adventure a Summer tradition moving forward, too (!!!!). And, back at home, I have enjoyed some fun times on the town and some lowkey times at home with Papa and Rosie. August 2024 has truly been a great balance of fun and relaxation.

Thrifting for Fall – This Fall 2024, I have LOVED getting to thrift at my local Salvation Army and 2nd Avenue thrift shops to find some adorable finds to wear for the upcoming season. Many of these pieces are designer household names, such as Theory, Nicole Miller, Tory Burch, and Alice + Olivia. I *even* found an Oscar de la Renta (!!!!!!) caftan that I plan to style for my final Summer trip (more on that below!) for $3.75! I also found a Giorgio Armani work dress in July, too. While I am pretty much shopped out for Fall 2024 fashion, I am SO excited to style many of the name brand pieces that I found for this upcoming season. And, soon, I plan to share more thrifting content here and on Instagram (follow me @_thepinkchickadee).
Summer Restaurant Week – my friends Briana, Torie, Brittany, and I tried Smoke & Mirrors – a rooftop bar looking over Washington, DC’s stunning skyline – and Ambar (Clarendon location in Arlington!) – an adorable Balkan cuisine restaurant that offers unlimited small plates for DC Summer Restaurant Week. I LOVED getting to enjoy several moments catching up with and vibing with each of my friends. Truly, friendships are a gift and I am striving to find more moments to be together with friends, especially before we all may have more commitments in life in the coming years.

Smoke & Mirrors

Ambar – Clarendon location

Mamma Mia! The Musical – My best friend Haley and I since March have planned to see Mamma Mia! The Musical when it came to the Kennedy Center for a matinee performance! It did NOT disappoint (!!!!!). Mamma Mia! Is my favorite musical and gives me SO many memories of my study abroad time in London (here). I LOVED getting to experience this incredible musical again, but this time, close to home and with Haley. We had such a great time and enjoyed getting a nice early dinner afterwards at Tatte’s Foggy Bottom location (which ALSO did not disappoint!).

Emily in Paris Pop-Up – My friends Briana, Torie, and I went to check out the exclusive Emily in Paris Pop-Up at Morris American Bar in Washington, DC *just* before I jetted off to the Midwest. While the menu is mostly drinks and small plates (macarons included for dessert!), the vibes were immaculate and ALLL-THINGS Emily in Paris! We enjoyed complimentary Lillet x Emily in Paris-themed shots, cocktails, and charcuterie and took several photos (!!!). All in all, a great time to celebrate the brand-new Emily in Paris season that I’ve enjoyed watching!

Nationals Game – This time around, I *finally* went to a Washington Nationals baseball game AND got to see the President’s Race (!!!!). Normally, I’m never paying attention to see the President’s Race or have already left the game – whoops! As a Prospective Member of the Manor House Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) chapter, the ladies of Manor House invited me and others to the game, which was SO fun. It was great to get to know some of the fellow DAR ladies better than the brief times I have met them in the past.

A brief trip to Delaware – To kick off August, I visited my Dad, Step Mom, and Yorkie aka my “Sissy” Ginger for a quick two days in Delaware. We went to the beach, dinner at The Restaurant at Lighthouse Sound (here), and time watching The Olympics. While a quick trip, it was a memorable and special one, too!

Planning for my final Summer trip – For about 2 years, my friends Bryn and Maxwell and I have been looking at going to visit Maxwell in Hawaii where he is attending college at. SO, finally, after 2 years, Bryn and I are packing our bags for a week getaway and saying Aloha to Honolulu! My thrifted Oscar de la Renta caftan, alongside LOTS of Lilly Pulitzer shifts I’ve thrifted throughout this year will be coming along with me for my furthest trip away from home. I am SO excited for Hawaii and to see Maxwell’s stomping grounds for these past few years with Bryn.

All in all, the (more than) first half of August 2024 has been memorable for sure. One of the biggest lessons that I’ve learned this month so far is to find joy in the little things, the mundane, and to count your blessings.

XOXO – Katie <3

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My Summer Staple: The Lobster Dress!

Growing up, I spent Summers with my Mom, brother, cousins, Aunts, Uncles, Grandpa and family members/family friends of ALLL generations up in Northern Maine and Canada. Those Summers are the origin of many of my best memories from that season, including eating *none other than* … lobster (!!!!!). Now that the Summers in Maine aren’t as frequent and look a bit different, my love for lobster-printed everything still reigns supreme. SO, knowing that every Summer J Crew Factory launches a brand-new lobster print, I cannot help but make a purchase (or two!) in that print year after year!

*Disclaimer: Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own.*

Over the weekend, my Dad, Step Mom, and I went to The Restaurant at Lighthouse Sound (I share more about my experiences there here!) which is my favorite dinner spot when I visit them in Delaware. I *of course* wore my J Crew Factory lobster dress in this year’s print. Funny enough, I wore my lobster dress from last year’s print made by J Crew Factory to dinner at The Restaurant at Lighthouse Sound during our family reunion. J Crew Factory has since become one of my FAVORITE places to shop and their annual lobster print (which I have purchased multiple items in that print since Summer 2023!) makes me even more excited to order pieces from there, too!

One of the things that I LOVE about J Crew Factory is their continuous sales on merchandise. Especially when an item is on clearance, J Crew Factory will add *even more* additional markdowns to it with a discount code. I have ALSO signed up for Rewards, since I shop there *a bit* too frequently and can earn free shipping and additional discounts from time to time, too. But, in the mean time, you can shop my dress in this year’s J Crew Factory lobster print here!

My love for lobsters definitely stems from my childhood Summers up in Maine. From our continuous family road trips up the Maine coasts and throughout New England, to the Summers spent at the Houlton, Maine lobster festival and scoring Friday afternoon doorbuster deals on lobster rolls at the local Houlton Farms Dairy, truly lobsters remind me of many lovely Summers spent up North! And, I LOVE that I can carry those many splendid Summer memories of mine into many more Summer memories to make and cherish during my mid-20’s and beyond.

Here’s to hopefully many more New England and specifically Maine Summers (something I hope to continue as a tradition into my adulthood with my family!) to come AND while sporting a lobster printed garment!

XOXO – Katie <3

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The Life of Katie – July 2024

July 2024 was a WHIRLWIND of a month. It started off pretty rough with lots of uncertainty and it ended with a clear path forward and lots of clarity. Through it all though, I have been able to find the joy in a rather crazy month and make lemons out of lemonade. In life, we are always managing and navigating through one conflict or another or perhaps multiple, so why not find the joy during these times?!?! Needless to say, through it all, I am very proud of myself for staying busy and making time for myself, my loved ones, and to recharge, too.

My Favorite Buys:

Strolling through the aisles of Target with Papa, I found this Universal Thread dress *right* before I checked out and snagged it in pink. Then, I went back and ordered it in TWO more colors on sale!
I have been EYEING a set of House of Harlow pajamas for MONTHS (since finding a pair earlier this year and not grabbing it when I wished I had). However, in July of 2024, I scored a House of Harlow tank pajamas set at TJ Maxx for $15!
Bottles of Rosé at Trader Joe’s for under $10 is ALWAYS a favorite buy of mine! End of story.
This past month, I inherited some family-owned gold utensils, candle holders, Pillsbury salt/pepper shaker set, plates, parfait glasses, and a hydrangea vase. I have been decorating these incredible finds around my apartment to put on display for generations to come. It is a HUGE blessing to be able to inherit these beautiful finds of mine with family ties.
Thrifted scores were AMAZING this past month. These thrift scores included: Kate Spade leopard pumps at Bee Thrifty, Giorgio Armani dress at Salvation Army, Lilly Pulitzer for Target shift at Current Boutique, Brooks Brothers shirt dress at Salvation Army, ginger jar at Jayne’s Reliable, and a chinoiserie wine glass that I’ve been frequently using at Bee Thrifty.

Highs:

July 2024 included an incredible trip: the Thompson Family Reunion and visit with my bestie Amanda in the SAME WEEKEND in Bethany Beach, Delaware. The Thompson Family Reunion had 14 people, 1 dog, 1 cat, and LOTS of memories made in the same house. We enjoyed pool time, dinners at Good Earth Market and Dockside, lots of at-home happy hours, thrifting at ACTS Thrift Shop and Jayne’s Reliable, and simply catching up. Times like the Thompson Family Reunion truly remind me of the importance to take a step back, savor the moment, and love my family for who they are.

During the Thompson Family Reunion, we took a day trip to Berlin, Maryland. Berlin, Maryland is an ultra-charming town known as “America’s Coolest Small Town” located within close proximity to Ocean City, Maryland and the Delaware beaches. It boasts many small businesses that are local to Berlin, ranging from shops to art galleries to bars to ice cream parlors to restaurants. One of the biggest draws to Berlin shop-wise is their plethora of amazing antique shops. I enjoyed strolling throughout the streets of Berlin, lunch and beer with the family at The Globe, taking charming downtown photos of Berlin.

To commemorate Independence Day, I took a pre-July 4th stroll at Old Town Alexandria and enjoy a nice solo happy hour at the city’s brand-new Hotel Heron’s rooftop bar Good Fortune. Good Fortune has the highest altitude in all of Alexandria, Virginia for a rooftop bar and offers AMAZING skyline views of Old Town Alexandria, the Potomac River/Woodrow Wilson Bridge, and parts of Washington, DC/Virginia/Maryland. SUCH A COOL SPOT!

I took Rosie on a Starbucks outing on a Wednesday afternoon once I finished a work briefing. It brought me SO MUCH JOY to see my sweet pup enjoying a nice outing with me to my local Starbucks, which I LOVE to frequent a few times a week! I LOVED bringing Rosie with me as she brought me and so many other fellow customers lots of joy.

July 2024 brought about many great moments to catch up with friends, including lunch with Stephanie and Ashley at Ballston, Arlington’s Punch Bowl Social (including a post-lunch stroll at the Smithsonian Castle), dinner with Briana at Occoquan’s The Secret Garden Cafe and Lorton’s Naty’s, dinner at Old Town Alexandria’s Barca with Brittany, solo dinner date at Washington, DC’s La Grande Boucherie, dinner with Papa at Burke’s Spartans Family Restaurant, and a movie night at Washington, DC’s The Wharf with Briana, Brittany, their Mom, and Torie seeing Dream Girls at sunset. All in all, I am extremely blessed to have such incredible friends and family members in my life to make memories with.

Walks and chats at the local-to-us Burke Lake Park and Heron Pond with my best friend Haley have been MAJOR blessings in my life and especially this past month. With having gone through a pretty chaotic July, I have truly cherished my local walks with Haley and will continue to do so moving forward, too.

My return to church (which I write about more here) and many more memories were made this July 2024 with Papa who is recovering from his knee replacement surgery! We have been going to church on Sunday’s together and plan to continue this Sunday tradition beyond his recovery and into the Fall with our church’s Wednesday Night Dinners and other events which kick off in September. At the same time, we have been going on outings to Target and enjoyed homemade potato pancakes (which Papa made for us!) from his garden.

Lows:

Stress and uncertainty due to family-related things was how I kicked off July 2024. Needless to say, the month started off with a bang, but fortunately, these family-related things are things that have since subsided and are improving for the better. During this timeframe, I learned to truly be grateful for the moments that we have with our loved ones and strive to find the good in everything.
Extreme burnout in late-July hit me like a TON of bricks, and, as a result of lots of chaos going on earlier in the month. However, at the end of the day, I am beyond proud of myself for identifying what I was struggling with as burnout and for simply taking the time to recover and recharge and take care of me.
Allergies due to pollen of ALLLL the things kept me super exhausted most evenings until I got a shower. Classic with pollen, I guess. Pollen definitely feels like the carousel that NEVER stops turning – LOL!

As we wrap up July 2024, I will note that August 2024 is going to be one of my MOST exciting travel months to date (!!!!). I am going to be visiting two new-to-me states (one of which will go into September, as it’s over Labor Day Weekend and into the week!). This post will probably be short and sweet into August, but many many many travel posts will be coming soon on this platform, alongside my slowly-coming reflections of my day trips and experiences on my solo trip to Ireland (here, here, and here so far!) that I have been in the process of sharing. Needless to say, August here we come!

XOXO – Katie <3

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Annapolis, Maryland Travel Diary

I spent an incredible late July Saturday afternoon in the gorgeous town of Annapolis, Maryland! Growing up, I spent many summer days in the Maryland State Capital with my relatives who live there (and still do!) sailing, enjoying cotton candy ice cream at Storm Bros. Ice Cream Factory (which I did this time around, too!!), and walking the charming downtown streets and taking in ALL of the vibes. While I unfortunately due to family matters back at home could not meet up with my relatives this time around, there is ALWAYS a next time which I am looking forward to. Annapolis is a great stop on a road trip to the Delaware Beaches – my favorite near-to-me beach destination, which you can read my travel guide on the town of Bethany Beach, Delaware here. This time around, I brought my semi-recently acquired camera with me and snapped TONS of charming photos of Annapolis which is also known as “Naptown”. Now, I am sharing my *very own* Annapolis, Maryland travel diary!

Please note that this content is apart of my exploring the Washington, DC area series. For more information on planning your own trip to Washington DC (here), Northern Virginia (here), the Virginia Wine Country (here), Maryland (here), and beyond (here), please use the corresponding links for some recommendations and inspiration.

What I Did:

To kick off my Annapolis, Maryland travel diary, I got to meet my fellow Facebook and Instagram friend Jennifer of Capitol Hill Calligraphy & Design (support her here) at The Pink Crab – Annapolis’s Lilly Pulitzer Signature Store. Jennifer and I have SO MUCH in common, including ties to both North Carolina and New Jersey and *of course* the Washington, DC area, so it was destined that we meet! I am excited to connect with Jennifer now more, too. After a stop at The Pink Crab and meeting Jennifer and purchasing some of her incredibly gorgeous designs, too, I went to have a delicious lunch as I was starving at McGarvey’s and enjoyed a half a dozen of their $1 raw oysters (a STEAL nowadays thanks to inflation!), an Aviator’s Lager, and one of the most delicious salads I’ve ever had …. A shrimp & crab root vegetable summer salad. I will mention that the staff at both The Pink Crab and McGarvey’s were both beyond kind and made my experience at both places amazing!!

After *a little bit* of retail therapy and lunch, I headed for the iconic Naptown waterfront where I met an ultra-kind family from New York that visits Delaware every summer (which is where my Dad lives and my favorite summer spot, too!!!) and admired the gorgeous waterfront views filled with sail boats. Growing up, I would spend many summer afternoons and evenings sailing throughout the Annapolis waterfront with my Uncle John and cousins Jack and Laura alongside my Mom and brother Will, which I have MANY fond memories of. It was fun to see others enjoying Summer memories similar to mine! After the waterfront, I headed for the gorgeous and windy and colorful streets of Annapolis with my camera. Needless to say, it was a beautiful day and afternoon in Annapolis!

Wrap-Up:

Annapolis truly holds a special place in my heart and will for YEARS to come. I am excited to come back to Naptown and make more memories here with family and friends and myself as well.

XOXO – Katie <3

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Summer Strolls – The Smithsonian Castle

One of the MANY buildings in Washington, DC that I simply cannot get over how incredible it is is *none other than* the Smithsonian Castle! Indeed, the Smithsonian Castle is a magnificent building and is one of the first places that I visited growing up with my parents time and time again in Washington, DC. Not only does this incredible place hold many memories of my own, but it also holds a vast history in Washington, DC and the United States as well as several memories of people from all across the globe.

Note: Currently, the Smithsonian Castle is closed to visitors for a few-years of renovations and restorations. It closed its doors on February 1, 2023, but will re-open once complete. However, its adjacent Enid A. Haupt Garden (home to some of the iconic magnolia cherry blossom trees!) and outdoor grounds remain open to the public during visitor hours.

About: The Smithsonian Castle opened its doors to the public in 1855 and has witnessed centuries of American history. It is the first-ever Smithsonian Institution building and also played homage to the first Smithsonian exhibit that opened to the public! Its home is alongside the National Mall where many of the Smithsonian’s other museums (and national monuments!) are located, including the National Air and Space Museum, National Gallery of Art, and African American History Museum. Currently, the Smithsonian Castle serves as the central information center for the Smithsonian. While its doors are closed as of February 2023, the Smithsonian Castle’s charm still reigns in ALLL of its glory!

Growing up, I used to visit the Smithsonian Castle with my Dad and brother probably at least 3+ times during the course of my high school years. I would, then, visit it again with friends in both high school and college in the years that followed. Needless to say, over time, going through the doors of the Smithsonian Castle began to feel a bit old and annoying to me. However, as time went by, I grew to truly love this building more and more and more. When the #IfThenSheCan exhibit showcasing 3-D printed statues of women in STEM (here) were scattered all across the National Mall including at the Smithsonian Castle (which I visited!!!), I truly began to appreciate the importance and beauty of this building that I frequented in my teens. Now that the Smithsonian Castle’s doors are temporarily shut to the public, I cannot help but admire it even more so. That all being said, I cannot wait until its doors reopen again!

While on my photoshoot of the Smithsonian Castle, I couldn’t help but admire its architecture at EVERY turn! I started off entering in via the adjacent Enid A. Haupt garden aka a favorite spot of mine to visit during cherry blossom season for the magnolia cherry trees (!!!!!) to check out the stunning gardens during the summer time. It was an EXTREMELY hot and humid Washington, DC day, but yet a great one to admire the Smithsonian Castle grounds right in front of my very own eyes. I happened to embrace my Hydrangea Girl Summer (if you know, you know!!) and found a few hydrangea bushes, too! I ended up walking ALLLL around (well, most) of the Smithsonian Castle grounds and was just in awe at every turn.

The Smithsonian Castle is, indeed, an amazing structure on the National Mall. It is one that I hold near and dear to my heart! Truly, a special place to me and many others!!

XOXO – Katie <3

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The Life of Katie – June 2024

Overall, June was a fairly quiet month. I enjoyed a nice visit with my college friend Claire who came up for all things Capital Pride, I traveled to visit my Dad for Father’s Day in Bethany Beach, Delaware and then had a celebration with Papa post-beach excursion, and I strolled around some near-to-me Northern Virginia parks with my best friend Haley. Through it all, I enjoyed the peace and quiet (despite more stress than usual) of June 2024.

Favorite Finds:

This past month, I had the incredible opportunity to partner with Noshinku – sustainably-made hand sanitizers coming in several luxurious scents at an affordable price point. The packaging of Noshinku’s hand sanitizers are SOOOO pretty and they smell AMAZING! I LOVE Noshinku’s sustainable design and packaging, alongside the high quality of its hand sanitizers. Noshinku gifted me TWO hand sanitizers in Eucalyptus and Lavender.

I went on a mega thrifting haul early on in the month and found a BEAUTIFUL custom-made gold bamboo framed needlepoint masterpiece (that I had the perfect place to hang it at!!!!).

Back in March, I had the opportunity to work with a plus-sized fashion Amazon seller: Cootry! This time around, I was sent a super comfortable pink tie dye workout tee! On one of my Summer strolls this June with Haley, I had the opportunity to style it for Summer!

June Ongoings:

Highs:

My good friend from college Claire came to visit me for Capital Pride in Washington, DC! We enjoyed an evening and afternoon in my favorite Washington, DC hangout spot … Old Town Alexandria! We had dinner and drinks at Vola’s Dockside Grill and brunch at Call Your Mother Deli when in Old Town Alexandria. I ALSO had a chance to snap some photos around town with my recently purchased camera!

To kick off the first weekend in June, I took a solo date to the National Museum of Women in the Arts for Community Day aka for free admission the first Sunday of every month. I spent about an hour wondering through this gorgeous and opulent museum that truly honors women artists from across the globe. The pieces in this museum are immaculate and seriously some of the most extraordinary creations I have EVER seen. The National Museum of Women in the Arts reopened to the public back in 2023, and I am SO glad I made a visit there for the first time since 2019!

I enjoyed a much-needed weekend getaway to visit my Dad and Step Mom and their dog aka my Sissy Ginger in Bethany Beach, Delaware. I truly feel SO at ease and relaxed when visiting them! This time around, we strolled the boardwalk, had ice cream at the local place to be Bonkey’s every night after dinner, and enjoyed a nice beach day. Truly, my time in Bethany Beach is ALWAYS needed for my soul!

I took some puppy portraits of my dog Rosie in *none other than* her natural habitat … our front yard! Rosie is my FAVORITE photography subject so far!!!! Rosie was beyond curious with the sounds of the clicking of my camera AND enthusiastic, too.

I enjoyed *just a few* weeknights on the town during the month of June! The first of these nights out was to celebrate my Mom’s Birthday with family at Barca Pier and Wine Bar in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. We ended up dining out on the pier during …. Sunset!!!! And, it was BEAUTIFUL to literally watch the sunset on the water. Another night on the town that I did was to see Funny Girl while it’s performing live at the Kennedy Center (!!!!!!). An AMAZING show! And, last but not least, my best friend Liz and I enjoyed a night on the town watching her cousin’s husband Phil host a comedy show that takes place on Wednesday’s at Hot Bed in Adams Morgan in Washington, DC. Each of my nights on the town were truly incredible for my soul!

To close out the month of June, my Mom, Step Dad, and my Mom’s friend Laura, and I all went to go see fireworks at the nearby-to-us Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia. We enjoyed a super nice picnic, took in ALL of the vibes and views *including an incredible fireworks display!!!*, and time with one another. Truly, with such a stressful month especially then, this time at the Workhouse Arts Center with loved ones was needed for my soul.

Lows:

June 2024 was probably THE MOST stressful month I have had to date. While I will not get into any details, it has truly been a lot this past month. Above all else, I am proud of myself for what I have accomplished and for being able to handle what was thrown my way.

Here’s to an INCREDIBLE July 2024 to come!

XOXO <3 Katie

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