Fun Ideas To Spice Up Your Next Picnic

With our new and social distancing-embracing world, picnics have become a favorite activity of mine to gather with friends and family. Not only are picnics great to promote social distancing while still seeing those that you love and care about, but they can also bring us together to enjoy a nice meal or to simply catch up. Today, I am going to be sharing some fun ideas to spice up your next picnic, and make them OH SO special during this unique time!

1 – Pick a New Location To Picnic Each Time

Whether on your college campus, somewhere nearby, or both, picnicking at a different place each time allows for you and your crew to explore different places in your area while still enjoying one another’s company. Especially if you and your crew meet regularly to picnic and are able to get around to different places, then picnicking in various places nearby would be such a fun way to explore your local area while catching up with one another. That way, you and your crew can travel together nearby while enjoying each another’s company.

2 – Order Takeout

Just because you’re having a picnic does not mean that you have to have home cooked food each time! While sandwiches, fruit, and chips/crackers to nibble on may be the classic picnic staples, they don’t have to be. From the Cheesecake Factory to Taco Bell to a local favorite, the possibilities for takeout are ENDLESS. Since eating out at restaurants may not be the safest option for everyone, ordering takeout from your favorite places and having a picnic instead can be the next best thing for us all in the meantime!

3 – Make Breakfast Favorites

Okay ladies, let’s make a picnic toast with some mimosas!!! Breakfast for a picnic?! I think YES! From biscuits to pancakes to waffles and everything in between, breakfast is such a staple meal of the day that can be a super fun way to have a picnic with your crew. Let’s just say that I made waffles for a picnic with some friends, and it was a HIT!! You can even spice it up a little more by having a mimosa together, just as if y’all were at your favorite breakfast joint.

4 – Fun Dining Ware

Nothing says a cute picnic like fun plates, napkins, & cutlery! Luckily, places like The Dollar Tree, Walmart, The Christmas Tree Shops, and Target all sell super adorable and affordable party dining ware that can be used for picnics as well. I’ve LOVED finding super cute and fun dining ware, as they do add an extra fun twist to any picnic, and I know you will too!

5 – Bring Something Homemade

There’s nothing better than going to a picnic and showing up to seeing something homemade from the heart. I LOVE making something of my own for a picnic, as I feel it adds an extra touch as if I’m hosting someone in my own apartment. Like being in the kitchen, you can make just about anything to bring on a picnic, just be sure you can transport it. From pizza to a cheese board to pasta and even soup, the possibilities for homemade recipes are NEVER-ENDING!

6 – Do a Craft Together

Nothing says a fun time like a craft party! I know I LOVE doing crafts, especially in social gatherings. While picnics may be the new normal in terms of social gatherings for the time being, it does not mean that we cannot do the activities that we love such as crafting while at it. Craft parties have always been a favorite of mine, through doing activities such as wine and designs, card making, and scrapbooking. Why not do a craft party picnic style?!

7 – Potluck Style

Similar to any social gathering that is not social distanced, why not make a picnic a potluck picnic?! Depending on the size of your crew that you’re meeting for a picnic, it can be pretty tricky to transport everything for your picnic all on your own, which will make having a potluck a much more practical way to go. Likewise, doing a potluck style picnic will also allow everyone that you’re meeting up with to feel included and apart of the picnic. A potluck style picnic is definitely a fun way to go, with it allowing for easy transport of goodies and everyone in your crew to feel included.

8 – Have a Photoshoot Too

A picnic AND a photoshoot?! Let’s give it a GO!!! Since social distancing has brought about several changes in the ways that we gather with our friends, a picnic AND photoshoot will allow you to capture those memories while still gathering. Y’all will simply be gathering in a different way!

9 – Play a Card Game

Cards Against Humanity, What Do You Meme, and Apples To Apples, OH MY! The number of card great games out there is INSANE. This high number of card games will allow you and your crew to eventually find one that y’all will enjoy while picnicking together and making memories all at the same time.

10 – Get in a Walk, Too!

Why not get in a workout too?! There are SO many places that offer walking trails and areas to picnic. If you’re like me, then you may be the type of person who goes for a long walk and then gets hungry and vice versa. Going for a walk and exploring the scenery and enjoying some time setting and taking everything in for a nice picnic is most definitely the best of both worlds! Why not take full advantage of your local parks?!

Social distancing or not, picnics are an excellent way to gather with those you want to see. While picnicking may be the latest and greatest way to catch up with your crew amid the coronavirus pandemic, there are definitely SO many ways to make your picnic super fun and uniquely yours. The most important thing is that you and your crew are able to catch up and make memories together, even if they are done in a different way for now.

XOXO – Katie <3

thepinkchickadee1 Comment

I Lived in Tuscany for a Month

Love me some Tuscany!! As highly requested on my Instagram story survey a few weeks ago, many of y’all wanted to hear my experiences studying abroad. I have been lucky enough to study abroad in 3 different cities in 3 different countries: Sansepolcro, Italy (a small town in Tuscany), London, England, United Kingdom, and San Ignacio, Belize (a town in the rainforest region of Belize). Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing my experiences studying abroad in each country, along with some advice that is specific to each place. It is important to note that each of these study abroad programs were done through my school – Meredith College. Today, I will be beginning my sharing of my study abroad experiences by sharing my study abroad experience in the small Italian town of Sansepolcro located in the dreamy region of Tuscany.

The Benefit of Sansepolcro

When most people picture study abroad, they picture college students living in a massive city, such as Florence, Milan, or Rome. The majority of study abroad programs in Italy are, in fact, held in these major cities. Unlike Florence, Milan, and Rome, Sansepolcro is a tiny Italian town located in the hill country of Tuscany. There is not even a train station in the town – the nearest one is an hour away in Arezzo. What Sansepolcro does have that Florence, Milan, and Rome do not have is drop dead gorgeous lush hill country that goes for miles and miles on end along with locals that are extremely friendly. Sansepolcro’s small town charm could not be bought or even found in either Florence, Milan, or Rome.

The special thing about Sansepolcro is Meredith College’s relationship with the town. For decades now, Meredith College has sent their students to study abroad in Sansepolcro on study abroad programs through the school along with trips for alumni. Like myself, Meredith College fell in love with Sansepolcro due to its down to earth and authentic charm, which Italy’s major cities lack. The locals in Sansepolcro and Meredith College students, faculty, staff, and alumni have established a close-knit bond that has lasted throughout the years. This bond is so strong that Meredith College purchased a Palazzo (like an apartment) above a pizza place in the town that its students and faculty live at when they study abroad. Before me, many of my Meredith sisters have lived in Meredith’s Palazzo in Sansepolcro and many more will after me. I have found Meredith’s Palazzo in Sansepolcro to be such a special asset to studying abroad in Italy, as not many students can say that they lived in a small town in Tuscany that their school has maintained such strong connections with.

Living in Meredith’s Palazzo was an experience like no other. The bedrooms were most definitely authentic to the Italian lifestyle – simplistic and beautiful. Not many Italians and Europeans for that matter have their own closets – they have wardrobes instead. Laundry in Italy is only washed and hung to dry. In Italy, the Italians eat lunch as their biggest meal like dinner is in the United States. At Meredith’s Palazzo, we were lucky enough to have a lovely chef named Margarita to cook us our lunch each day. Each day, Margarita made something completely different yet still very Italian and authentic to the Tuscan region. Every single one of Margarita’s meals was AMAZING, and I wish I could enjoy one of her extraordinary creations as I write this!! The Meredith Palazzo lifestyle allowed me to live the life of a Sansepolcro resident, which truly allowed me to experience living in a different country as if I were a local there. You know what they say: when in Sansepolcro!

Courses I Took

One of the most important things about studying abroad is that you are there to STUDY. Meredith’s Office of International Programs staff member Liz ALWAYS emphasizes how study abroad is NOT a trip or vacation as you are there to study. Liz’s emphasis on study abroad as a time to study and learn and grow as an individual in a brand-new culture is extremely important to myself as well. Study abroad is a time for nothing other than self growth while having an educational experience in a brand-new country and culture. Personally, I find this very important to remember. While study abroad is exciting and may feel like a trip/vacation, it is anything BUT that.

While in Sansepolcro, I took three different courses: Arts and Artifacts (a class on the history of Sansepolcro and Italy), Nonverbal Communication, and Yoga. Each of these courses was unique in its own way and provided me with different facets of knowledge that I take with me to this day. Both Arts and Artifacts and Nonverbal Communication were taught by Meredith professors who lived with us at the Palazzo. I definitely saw both of my professors studying abroad with me as my Italy mom’s! Meanwhile, my Yoga instructor was a local to Tuscany who has a popular yoga blog in Italy. I found the value of having classes taught both by Meredith professors and a Tuscan local to be priceless.

In my Arts and Artifacts course, I got to learn about Sansepolcro and Italy while write about what I saw. One distinct thing about the Arts and Artifacts course is that it is taught on every one of Meredith’s study abroad programs with it being unique to each country that it’s taught in. I took this course in both England and Belize as well. In this course, students get to learn about the part of the world that they are studying abroad in while getting to see the places/sights that they are learning about. In Sansepolcro, I learned about the town of drop dead gorgeous medieval Angihari right before I visited it. The same went for the sculpture of David at the Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence, the origin of Murano glass on the island of Murano, and the Duomo di Siena in Siena, Italy. At the same time, I also got to use class time to plan out my independent travel breaks with my classmates. Through it all, the Arts and Artifacts course was an extremely helpful course in getting to know the place that I was studying abroad in and help me to better understand the culture of Sansepolcro as well as the differing regional cultures in Italy as a whole.

My Nonverbal Communication course was one that was extremely valuable to me. My professor Dr. Ross is extremely passionate about communication and especially nonverbal communication, which truly showed throughout the course. Dr. Ross worked really hard to promote our self growth as students not only academically through learning and living in Sansepolcro, but also as strong young women. Each class day was something new and different, as Dr. Ross strived to discuss her own personal experiences with nonverbal communication in the United States and connecting them to Italian life and culture. For example, each student had an assigned partner that they had to do an activity with that was out of their comfort zone – mine was to strike a conversation with a total stranger on the streets and see how they reacted. We, then, each had to work with our partners to describe and reflect on our own experiences through that social interaction and pick up on their nonverbal cues as to how they compared to the United States. Each class day, a new pair shared their communication experiences with the class, and we built off one another in class discussion. My experience talking to a total stranger in Sansepolcro really helped me to get out of my shell with talking to people who may have not have spoken much English, and it, more importantly, helped me to learn more about Italian life and culture as well as myself. At the same time, Dr. Ross had each of us take the Myers-Briggs test (I’m an ESFJ – I think!) along with another personality test, which we wrote about in class as we grew and learned as young women throughout our time in Sansepolcro. I found Dr. Ross’s course to be one of the most valuable in my entire college experience, as it is one of the few that had emphasis on self growth which I find to be such a blessing. Not only does Dr. Ross care about her students academically, but she also cares about their personal self growth and she especially did when we studied abroad with her, and I cannot thank her enough for it!

Taking Yoga in Sansepolcro with an Italian yoga instructor was such a cool experience! Each class period, my instructor spent some time talking about the history and origins of yoga. I found my instructor’s lectures on yoga to be extremely valuable, even though I was trying to stay awake sometimes during them LOL! We also got to do some yoga exercises, which was extremely fun and relaxing! There are not many yoga classes where one gets to learn about the history of yoga AND actually do yoga. It truly was the best of both worlds!!

Life in Sansepolcro

When in doubt, life like a local! Each day that I was in Sansepolcro, I spent about 4 hours in the morning in class, an hour for lunch, and the afternoons varied. Every afternoon began with an hour before any other academic-related activity would occur. In Italy, the Italians have usually 1.5-2 hours for a lunch break where many of them take naps or do other activities after eating their actual lunch. Being the avid napper that I am, I took naps! After my lunch and nap break, I would either attend another class for 2-4 hours or have the afternoon off to explore the town, get some gelato, or do homework. Sansepolcro is a small yet charming town with much to explore!

As for dinner, I would usually have a small snack of cheese, tomatoes, crostini’s, and prosciutto. My classmates and I were taught how to navigate an Italian grocery store on our first full day in Sansepolcro, which was SUCH A BLESSING. When I’ve traveled abroad with my mother, we went to a grocery store in Athens, Greece which I really enjoyed. One of the things that I really value about most European countries is that their groceries are a lot more fresh than in the United States, as they’re usually locally sourced. As odd as it may sound, you really truly get to learn SO MUCH about a place and its culture from its grocery stores. Grocery stores tell a TON about its people and culture from simply what they eat and shop for. I really enjoyed getting to shop at Sansepolcro’s local grocery stores, as they taught me a lot about what the locals seek for and value in their groceries.

Sansepolcro is notable for its works of art. It is home to artist Piero della Francesco whose works are featured in the Museo Civico Sansepolcro. In fact, during World War II, Sansepolcro was saved from being bombed due to it being the home of some of della Francesco’s masterpieces. While in Sansepolcro, my classmates and I got to see some of his works of art at the Museo Civico Sansepolcro. Knowing Sansepolcro’s historical significance during World War 11 and even before then was SO neat and such a bittersweet experience. The Italian people have been through so much historically and go through a lot today, and to know that sweet Sansepolcro was saved due to della Francesco’s pieces being kept there was really heartwarming.

Excursions

Besides living in and loving life in Sansepolcro, I also got to explore nearby towns and cities in Tuscany. The excursions that I went on included: a day in the nearby Tuscan towns of Anghiari and Arezzo, an afternoon at the Il Fugetto olive oil farm in Anghiari, a day in Florence, a day in Siena, and a hike to Montecast. Each of these excursions allowed me a learn A TON about Tuscan life, culture, and history.

Anghiari is a magical medieval town that is conveniently located about 10 minutes via bus from Sansepolcro. Upon pulling up to Anghiari for the first time after taking the bus over, my classmates and I were immediately in awe with what a dream this town truly is – it looks like it comes out of a Disney movie!!! The town is suited on a hill and it contains several streets that are filled with something new and beautiful everywhere you turn. Anghiari remains one of my favorite towns to this day, and I really hope that I can go back when it is safe to!

Arezzo is a much bigger town that both Sansepolcro and Anghiari. It is located about an hour away from each via bus. While some didn’t necessarily enjoy the long and hot bus ride from Arezzo to Anghiari, I really enjoyed it as the views of Tuscany were truly breathtaking as I looked out the window. I used my time on the bus to clear my head and enjoy the stunning Tuscan scenery that I so truly rarely get to see. I’m SO glad I took those moments to my advantage, too! The town of Arezzo, on the other hand, is home to the train station that my classmates and I would utilize on our independent travels. Besides its home to the train station, Arezzo had a ton to offer! It was home to some stunning cathedrals, museums, and everything in between. The streets of Arezzo, like Anghiari had something so great to offer everywhere you turned. Unlike major Italian cities and some Tuscan towns, there were not as many tourists in Arezzo which made it such a cool and authentic gem to visit.

The Il Fugetto olive oil farm was an experience that I will NEVER forget! While there, my classmates and I were greeted by one of the owners of the farm. She took us on a tour of it where we got to see where all of the olives to make olive oil grew. I also got to take in ALL of the stunningly gorgeous Tuscan views and enjoy some of the region’s fauna – including the farm’s super friendly dogs! At the same time, we learned about the difference between extra virgin and regular olive oil as well as how to determine whether or not a bottle of extra virgin olive oil is actually extra virgin (hint – MOST ARE NOT!!!!). The owner was also kind enough to let us make our own pizza dough and bake ourselves mini pizza’s as well as prepare us one of the best meals I have ever had in my life – complete with a cheese board and wine!

Florence is definitely the main hub of Tuscany. Moreover, Florence is a main city hub in all of Italy and a notable city in our world today. My classmates and I spent a day there where we went on a group tour of the Galleria dell’Accademia home of the Sculpture of David. Besides that, I went to the Galileo museum and walked the city’s many markets while taking in many of the city’s sights to see. In fact, I loved Florence SO much that two of my classmates and I chose to come back during one of our independent travel breaks to explore more of it.

Fun fact number 1: my step-sister is actually named Siena after the notable Tuscan town that I got to visit. Fun fact number 2: my step-father proposed to my mother in Siena in the main square. That being said, getting to visit Siena on a group excursion was most definitely an amazing opportunity! My classmates and I started off the day by visiting the Duomo di Siena – a cathedral in the town that took centuries to fund and build. The artwork and construction throughout the cathedral was extremely intricate and you can tell that the artisans who helped design it put in a ton of time, thought, and energy. Besides visiting the Duomo di Siena, I strolled around the town, visited museums, and got to get a sneak peek at the 2018 Palio di Siena in the main square where my mother and step father got engaged. The Palio di Siena is the town’s annual horse race, where native families have competed against one another for centuries. When I arrived at the main square, the bleachers were packed, so my group and I ended up watching a bit of the Palio from underneath the bleachers, which was still SUCH A COOL experience!!! Through it all, Siena is truly an Italian wonderland. Let’s just say that Siena was even more stunning in person than in the pictures!

Although I was not much of a hiker two years ago, the hike to Montecast was totally worth it! Montecast is a monastery that is located on top of a Tuscan hill outside of Sansepolcro’s downtown. It has been there for centuries. Even though the hike felt extremely painful at times walking up the hillside on what felt like a never-ending trail, it was TOTALLY worth it all when we got to the top to the monastery that had been there for years. Montecast was such a cool experience, even though it felt painful at times just to get there and back!

Travel Breaks

Most Meredith College study abroad programs allow for independent travel breaks. On these independent travel breaks, students can travel to different cities and even countries (depending on the program) on their own. Personally, I saw independent travel breaks as a way for me to become more strong and independent as I navigate a brand-new place. While in Sansepolcro, I got to visit Florence and Lucca on my first travel break, Venice, Verona, and the islands of Burano and Murano on my second travel break, and Rome and The Vatican on my final travel break (this one was with my faculty and all my classmates but it was mostly independent). While I will not get into my travel breaks very much in this post (I feel that they are each better served in their own post as I have SO much to say about each), I will say that each of these experiences was extremely neat, fun, and rewarding!

Getting to study abroad in Tuscany was truly a dream come true. Many people dream of visiting Tuscany and getting to do so myself was such a dream. While I am extremely lucky that I was able to even go to Tuscany, I know that so many have not. That being said, I want to utilize my study abroad experiences in Italy and beyond to share with and empower others to go out and see the world while also learning about it. Wherever this world may take us, being able to learn about the various cultures and history that different places have to offer is extremely valuable. Not only does getting to travel somewhere brand-new help us to expand our minds, but it also helps us to grow into the strong and independent people that we are meant to be.

thepinkchickadee1 Comment

Back To School Lookbook: Mask Edition

While this upcoming school year will look quite different than past years, it does not mean that we do not have to embrace it. Personally, I have seen masks as our latest and greatest accessory of 2020. Like a handbag, there are several ways that we can style our masks to make them fun, unique, and specifically our own. Today, I have asked several of my girlfriends to share a photo of themselves styling their favorite back to school outfit with a little twist: wearing a mask.

Although the idea of wearing a mask to class and out and about may feel a bit daunting, it can be a SUPER FUN accessory to wear. More importantly, wearing a mask not only protects you, but it also protects our family, friends, neighbors, and our entire community. Wearing a mask helps to keep ourselves and everyone around us safe during this unique time. That being said, be uniquely YOU during this unique time, and remember that this too shall pass.

XOXO – Katie <3

thepinkchickadeeLeave a comment

How To Craft A Weekly Menu On A Budget

From cooking to baking, the possibilities in the kitchen are most definitely ENDLESS! While it is extremely exciting to start cooking in the kitchen, it definitely comes at a cost. In order to help me stay on a budget, I create weekly menus that include ALL of the recipes that I have for a given week. That way, when I head on over to the grocery store, I know exactly what I am going to purchase for that week and it helps me steer away from items that I do not need. Consequentially, I have successfully been able to keep my grocery runs to once a week, which also helps me save money in the long run. In this blog post, I will be sharing how YOU can create your own weekly menu while maintaining your budget.

Use Pinterest, Blogs, & Cookbooks!

Have a preference for vegetarian, keto, gluten-free, or vegan recipes?! Whatever your recipe preferences may be, get on Pinterest and/or research some blogs and cookbooks that have recipes to your liking! In doing so, you can see what recipes are up to par with your cooking ability as well as your budget. In finding budget-friendly recipes, my biggest piece of advice would be to make sure that the majority of ingredients in the recipe you can either find in your pantry already or get pretty cheaply at the grocery store. For instance, you may not want to try a recipe that has you buy all of these ingredients that you do not already have in your pantry such as Worcester sauce and Nutmeg if you are not going to use them for something else. That being said, there are plenty of other recipes out there – even for the same dish – and it is much more worthwhile to spend your money on items that you will use to the fullest rather than dump. Finding inspiration for recipes is always an effective way to garner inspiration for what will be cooking in your kitchen!

Have A Place To Store Your Recipes Of Interest

Once you find a recipe that you would like to try, then save it to your Pinterest board, add a sticky note in a cookbook, or create a document where you can link recipes found directly from blogs. I have also created a Google Document where my friends and followers can all share recipes with one another and gather inspiration. If you would like to join, then fill out the form here! Having a place to store all of your recipes that you want to try will make it easier for you to find them, as you’re crafting your weekly menus. When you have found a plethora of recipes that you would like to try, then the opportunities to spice up your kitchen will be endless in a convenient way!

Plan Your Menu Based On What’s Going On Each Day

I cannot say this ENOUGH: plan your weekly menu based on what’s going on each day of the week. If your Monday evening is busy with meetings, then definitely plan for something simple that night or cook something the weekend before. The same idea goes for any other day of the week. Additionally, it is important to make note of days that you plan to go out to eat at restaurants and/or order takeout. In my family, we usually order takeout on Friday’s, so mark those days as having takeout for dinner. Similarly, if you plan to get breakfast, lunch, or dinner with some friends, then mark those on your menu calendar too. That way, when you plan your menu based on each day, you will be better set to create a menu that meets your day’s needs as well as your budget’s.

Shop Based On What’s On Sale!

What time is it?! It’s time to sign up for your favorite grocery stores’ rewards programs! Lucky for you, each of your favorite grocery stores will have coupons on items that are on sale for that week. Also, most grocery stores conveniently have apps that you can use to scan in these rewards when you go shopping and see what’s on sale before you go. Stores that have these reward program apps include Target, Harris Teeter, Food Lion, and Wegman’s. Excitedly enough, Instacart also has exclusive coupons to the app, which allows many of us who feel nervous about going grocery shopping in person to steal get our deals from our couch. That being said, my biggest suggestion would be to look at the items that your favorite grocery store is having a good deal on that week. If you see something that you enjoy that is on sale, then get it that week to save yourself some cash in the long run! You may even want to stock up if it will save you a lot of money in the long run to do so! Like clothing stores, grocery stores have sales too, however, they can be a lot more challenging to find – you just have to do your research.

Cook Ahead!

I have ALWAYS cooked more for dinner, so that I could just heat up something simple for lunch. I am also one that gets really hungry in between classes, so having something quick to heat up is great for me. Meal prep is also a great thing to do for dinners and/or lunches throughout the week. Not only does cooking ahead save you some time in the long run, but it also saves you money!

Get Groceries One Day a Week

Typically, I plan out my weekly menus the day of or two days before I head to the grocery store. Usually, I designate Sunday as my groceries day. That way, I know to have my Weekly Menu and Grocery List ready to go to get what I need for the week. In addition, I will normally know what meals I will be cooking for that week based on what is going on during the week – whether it be dinners out with friends, a gathering at someone’s apartment, or I have a hectic schedule that calls for some meal prepping. Whatever the case may be, having my grocery list set in stone and ready to go every Sunday helps me to get what I need to conquer my week and budget.

As someone who LOVES to cook while maintaining a budget, I hope that these tips will serve you well in the kitchen. Most importantly, cook meals that YOU and your roommates will each enjoy. Having fun and enjoying delicious meals together, no matter the cost, is the most important thing. Here’s to some delicious and budget-friendly meals to come!

XOXO – Katie <3

thepinkchickadeeLeave a comment

What I Wore During the Month of July

For today’s blog post, I got inspired by one of my favorite bloggers, Annaliese at Southern Belle In Training. Each month, she posts her outfits of the day for work, and I thought that it would be fun to do too for each weekday/class day that I have! I have ALWAYS loved sharing my outfits on my platform on my Instagram stories, and I know some of y’all enjoy seeing them too. Hopefully, I can provide you some outfit inspiration along the way! Cheers 🙂

  • Shirt: The Redheaded Camel (shop her super cute designs here)
  • Shorts: J Crew Factory (same style here)
  • Dress: J Crew (purchased from ThredUp for under $10!)
  • Necklaces: Bought at Nordstrom Rack years ago
  • Flats: Elie Tahari (got them a few years back)
  • T-Shirt: from school
  • Shorts: Vineyard Vines (purchased on clearance at the outlet)
  • Necklace: Kendra Scott
  • Earrings: Kendra Scott (shop similar colors here!)
  • Sandals: Michael Kors (got a few years ago at TJ Maxx)
  • T-Shirt: from school
  • Scalloped Skort: Lilly Pulitzer (shop the same style here!)
  • Sneakers: Nike
  • Dress: Tommy Hilfiger outlet (bought YEARS ago)
  • Earrings: Purchased at a local boutique in Placencia, Belize
  • Sandals: Jack Rogers
  • T-Shirt: from school
  • Skort: Lilly Pulitzer (shop the style in different prints here!)
  • Sneakers: Nike
  • Top: Shop similar style here!
  • Necklace: Cora’s Den
  • Skort: Crown & Ivy at Belk (bought 3 years ago)
  • Top: Thrifted at Goodwill
  • Skirt: Lilly Pulitzer (got off of Poshmark)
  • Pearl Strands: Nordstrom Rack (purchased YEARS ago!)
  • Romper: Lilly Pulitzer (got off of Poshmark)
  • Scrunchie: The Dollar Tree
  • Romper: Lilly Pulitzer (purchased in the Summer Remix print last year!)
  • T-shirt: Jadelynn Brooke (purchased on sale!)
  • Skort: Athleta (thrifted)
  • Dress: BCBG (got off of ThredUp)
  • Earrings: Target (got on clearance)
  • Necklace: Lilly Pulitzer (got as a free gift with purchase)
  • Hair Tie: The Dollar Tree
  • Top: Marshall’s (purchased a few years ago)
  • Pants: Sewn by my Grandma years ago!
  • Dress: Lilly Pulitzer (purchased a few years ago at Belk)
  • Earrings: Target (bought last year)
  • Scrunchie: Got for free at school!
  • Dress: Thrifted last year
  • Flip Flops: J Crew Factory (shop similar prints here!)
  • Dress: Lilly Pulitzer (bought a few years ago for a steal at TJ Maxx!!)
  • Scrunchie: Walmart
  • Necklace: Cora’s Den (linked up above)
  • Top: Shop similar style here!
  • Necklace: Bought in Krakow, Poland at the city’s Easter Market 5 years ago!
  • Skirt: J Crew (thrifted a few years ago)
  • Hairband: It’s actually a SCARF & I’ve had it for YEARS now!
  • Dress: Haley & The Hound
  • Earrings: Purchased from a Native American artist in North Carolina
  • T-shirt: Simply Southern (gifted a few years ago)
  • Skort: Lilly Pulitzer (purchased on sale 3 years ago!)

XOXO – Katie <3

thepinkchickadeeLeave a comment

15 Items I LOVE Having in my College Dorm/Apartment

With college move-in coming upon us quicker than ever, it definitely is exciting to make your lists and check them twice on what you need for your dorm/apartment. It definitely is daunting to be sure you have absolutely EVERYTHING that you need. Luckily, going away to college is not like packing your bags for a trip to Italy, as most likely there will be a Target nearby your college. As a college Senior, I have been through all of the ups and downs of packing and deciding what to bring to your new dorm/apartment. Throughout my time as a college student, I have figured out what products I LOVE having in my dorm/apartment, which I have listed 15 of them here!

1 – Bath & Body Works Wallflower

No one that I know likes a room that smells weird! Unfortunately, college dorms and even apartments can most definitely have strange odors from time to time. Luckily, Bath & Body Works’ Wallflowers are great to add a fresh scented aura to any small space. Upon moving into my Freshmen dorm, I purchased one of their plug-in Wallflowers, which can easily be refilled once every 4-8 weeks with a new scent. If you’re like me and you LOVE Bath & Body Works, then you know that they carry several super amazing scents from lotions to perfumes to soaps which of course are available for their Wallflower plug-in refills. Bath & Body Works’ Wallflowers have definitely been my favorite over the years, and I will definitely still be using them after college too!

2 – Throw Blanket

Nothing says I need to wind down better than cozying up with a throw blanket after a long day of classes. Over the years, I have LOVED having a throw blanket in my dorm/apartment. Not only does it make me feel really homey in my home away from home, but it also keeps me warm when the dorms/apartments are ridiculously cold (which they can be!).

3 – Cards Against Humanity

Cards Against Humanity has definitely been a classic card game amongst many adults of all ages, but especially college students. The majority of college-aged students that I know are big fans of Cards Against Humanity, which makes it an excellent social gathering. In fact, many college students host parties in their dorms/apartments just to play this awesome card game. That being said, it is definitely worth looking into purchasing a pack before you make the move to college.

4 – Fan

College dorms and even apartments are extremely weird with their heating and air systems at times. One day you may be living in a sauna and the next you may be living in what feels like an igloo. Keeping this fact in mind, I would definitely purchase a fan no matter the size before you go off to college, as you will have days where you need it. I sometimes even carry around mini battery-powered fans that I found for under $2 at Walmart during the Summer.

5 – Mugs

I feel that a persons’ mug collection tells a bunch about themselves and who they are. Mugs are such a fun way to have something that is uniquely yours while telling a bit about yourself. I know that I LOVE to collect mugs from my travels, as I have a few in my collection from when I studied abroad in Europe. Additionally, I also have a ton of mugs that are bright and bubbly with flamingoes and Lilly Pulitzer prints. Having a mug (or five) in your college dorm/apartment is a great way to tell a bit about yourself while also having something right in your own space that you can use to whip up your favorite morning drink.

6 – Air Purifier

Like any bedroom back at home, college dorms/apartments can get VERY dusty. Before I went to college, my mom invested in an air purifier for my dorm, and I am OH SO GRATEFUL that she did. Air purifiers are a lifesaver, as they simply purify the air in your dorm/apartment throughout the day – something that not all the dusting and mopping in the world can fully do.

7 – Fun Magnets

Like mugs, I LOVE to collect magnets from my travels! Magnets are just such a fun way to decorate your fridge or mini fridge with all your adventures from the years. Besides how fun they are, magnets are also extremely easy to transport and super duper affordable. That being said, one or even 20 magnets definitely will not hurt the budget and leave you with some super fun digs for your new fridge no matter its size.

8 – Vacuum

A vacuum has definitely been my saving grace during my college years! Having a vacuum has allowed me to keep my place clean and neat. Personally, I feel that this item is worth the investment for anybody moving into a college dorm/apartment without explaining too much!

9 – Decorative Banner

Bar carts, over the bed, and desk side, OH MY! The possibilities for where to hang a banner are ENDLESS. Decorative banners have always been a favorite of mine, as they are easy to transport as well as either make or order online. I have found that banners make for a fun nice touch in any place, especially one that you’re making into your second home.

10 – Anti-Wrinkle Spray

My step-mom bought me anti-wrinkle spray when I moved into my Freshmen year dorm, and it has definitely been one of the best things that she introduced me to! Anti-wrinkle spray is a simple and practical way to get rid of wrinkles in your clothes without having a use an iron. All you have to do is spray it on the garment where the wrinkles are, straighten out the wrinkles on the garment, and poof they are gone!

11 – Plates & Utensils

This one mostly goes for those living in a dorm, since having plates and utensils in an apartment is pretty much a necessity. When in a dorm, the dining hall food most definitely gets old, even after the first week. In my dorm, I most definitely made a ton of microwaveable dishes that required a plate and my own utensils. They were most definitely a lifesaver for me in my own dorm!

12 – Throw Pillows

Like a decorative banner, throw pillows definitely add a personal and fun spice to your dorm/apartment. I have found having throw pillows to make my dorm room extra homey while away from home too!

13 – Bar Cart

Whether for snacks or drinks, bar carts are definitely the way to go! I LOVE having a bar cart in my apartment, as I can successfully store all of the snacks and drinks that I enjoy throughout the days. The best part about a bar cart is that you can easily add a banner or frame and really make it your own. The possibilities are limitless with a bar cart!

14 – Coffee/Tea

Whether you love coffee or tea, I would definitely get a few of your favorite morning drink staples before heading off to college. Although I am an avid tea lover, I do know many people who LOVE coffee and have really benefitted from having their own Keurig. At the same time, the dining hall may only offer so much when it comes to coffee and tea and Starbucks/Dunkin’ adds up real fast. Whatever floats your boat in the morning when it comes to drinks is what you need to stay afloat throughout the crazy college days!

15 – Wall Art

Like a throw pillow, mug, throw blanket, or magnet, wall art is a telltale way to make a space specifically yours. While you may be moving into a space temporarily that many have lived before you and will live after you, having your own wall art sets your place apart from everyone else’s. Most importantly, wall art makes your space uniquely yours.

Even though college dorm/apartment can be hectic from time to time, it is also really exciting! While my list varies on categories of items that I cannot live without while away at college, each of these items has truly made me feel much more at home in my brand-new and temporary space. Hopefully, the items that I shared will provide you with some inspiration on what to get for your own college dorm/apartment as you make a new space your own too!

XOXO – Katie <3

thepinkchickadeeLeave a comment

How To Get Involved in College During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Whether it be clubs, sports, social events, or all of the above, college life definitely has something for everybody. While it may seem daunting to choose what you may want to get involved in at college, there are several ways to get plugged into college life and figure out where your niche on campus is. For most of us, you will not find your niche of involvement right away, but you will find it. While the coronavirus pandemic may make it a bit harder to figure out what that niche maybe, it is still possible – you just have to think outside of the box. Today, I will be sharing how you can determine what YOU want to do to make your years in college the BEST that they can be even during the Covid-19 pandemic!

Do Your Research!

Before getting onto campus, look up clubs and organizations that may peek your interest. Most colleges and universities have a list of their clubs/organizations on their club website. I would most definitely look up that list and make note of which one’s you’re most interested in. In addition to looking up clubs/organizations that interest you on your college’s website, you can also see if the one’s that interest you have a social media page on Facebook or Instagram. Through doing so, you can most likely see photos of the club/organization’s membership body as well as the events that they do. Then, you can determine whether or not that club/organization is a good potential fit for you to get involved with. Moreover, I would also follow any club/organization’s social media pages, in order to receive updates on events. Whether they may be a club in your intended major, a religious group, a sorority, or an intramural sports team, or all of the above, knowing what clubs interest you will better help you to get plugged into college life.

Attend Club/Organization Fairs

While this may look a little different this Fall in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, I would highly suggest attending any virtual activities that your college offers that allow you to learn more about student life. Although most of us are not sure what club/organization fairs will look like at colleges and universities across the country this Fall, the biggest piece of advice that I can give you is to follow clubs/organizations that seem interesting to you like previously mentioned. One of the best ways to become a part of a club/organization’s membership body is to simply message the club’s social media page to ask to join their potential email list. Club/organization’s email lists are great ways to find out about events, meetings, and fundraisers. With many colleges still doing plenty of events online, email lists are a great way to get reminders sent directly to you about all things going on on your campus, whether virtual and or in-person, especially for things that peek your interest!

Be OPEN!

Even though many aspects of college life may seem daunting or not of your interest, I advise you to remain open to the many possibilities that college life may bring. If your roommate invites you to an event that may not interest you at first, then STILL GO! While many things may not peek our interests at first, it does not mean that way may end up enjoying them and want to get plugged in even more. Staying open to the several opportunities that college brings is extremely important and helps us to grow into the strong, extraordinary people that we are to become in college and beyond. The possibilities in college are ENDLESS, SO GO FOR IT!

Get Out Of YOUR Comfort Zone!

My mother always tells me that the only way you get out of your comfort zone is when you grow. Indeed my mother is right! Want to attend an event virtually or in-person but don’t have anyone to go with?! GO by yourself! Interested in checking out a cafe or restaurant but all of your friends have plans?! GO anyways! Want to try out for a sports team or join a religious group but do not know anyone involved in them already?! DO it anyways! The possibilities are literally out of this world when we do things that make us uncomfortable. Getting out of our comfort zone is a nerve-racking feeling, especially on a virtual platform. However, once we do get out of our comfort zones we allow ourselves to grow and become who we are meant to be in the long run. Personally, I have found the times that were uncomfortable for myself to be the most rewarding times in my life. Guess what?! I wouldn’t be the person I am today if I had not gotten out of my comfort zone and tried new things, alone or not, and I know you will only become your best self if you do just the same.

Stick with What YOU Like

To set the ball straight: you WILL NOT fit in with every club/organization’s student body or interests on your campus and that IS OKAY! The best part of attending college is the diverse student bodies and vast amount of clubs/organizations and activities to do. The best piece of advice I can give you is to stick with what YOU LIKE! If the Book club interests you more than the French club, then focus your time on attending Book club meetings and getting to know your fellow club members. It may take some time, but you WILL find your niche. Simply stick with activities from clubs/organizations and school-wide events that suit your interest, and it will come to you along with likeminded classmates who may become some of your best friends and potentially lifelong friends.

Pandemic or not, college life is daunting! However, if you put in the time and effort to get to know others and yourself, you will truly find your niche. While it may take time to find your place on campus, just know that it IS there waiting for you when you are ready!

XOXO – Katie <3

thepinkchickadee1 Comment

My Social Distancing-Friendly Beach Trip

Life is better at the beach, especially during a pandemic! With everything going on in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, being at the beach was a great way to relax and still social distance. While travel may look different this year, especially overnight travel, it does not mean that we can’t still enjoy it. Today, I am going to be sharing my super fun and relaxing experience traveling overnight to Bethany Beach, Delaware on a social distanced beach trip.

Emphasis on Shopping Small

One of the most unique assets of Bethany Beach is the fact that the town only permits small businesses in its area. I find the plethora of small businesses there to make it such a special and down-to-earth traveling experience as well. I have always preferred local businesses when traveling to your typical chain restaurant, and Bethany Beach truly embraces shopping small! Some of my favorite restaurants in the area include: Shaka Shack, Off the Hook, Bethany Diner, The Salted Rim, Grotto Pizza, and Good Earth Market & Organic Farm. Meanwhile, Bonkey’s is definitely one of the best places to indulge in some ice cream. In terms of shops, Candy Kitchen is a super cute candy shop that pops up EVERYWHERE in the area, and my Aunt Sherri is obsessed with it! Besides Candy Kitchen, I have not shopped much in the area, the boardwalk has a lot of options for some t-shirts and souvenirs. The emphasis on small businesses in Bethany Beach makes me really appreciate the area, especially during the pandemic.

Beaches

Above it all, I have found the beaches to be one of the best places to social distance in Bethany Beach. The appeal of social distancing at the beach is that people always come in groups anyways and want to spread out, so pandemic or not it does not make a difference. In fact, I found myself to enjoy the beach more during a pandemic, as people are more likely to keep their distance from other groups, which means I have more space to spread out and sunbathe! Additionally, at Bethany Beach, there are police on the boardwalk and employees at booths to Delaware State Park’s beaches beyond the boardwalk to ensure that only a certain number of groups are on the beach at once. Knowing that people are looking out and ensuring that others are social distancing made me feel a lot more comfortable going to the beach.

Activities

Besides of course going to the beach, Bethany Beach has a lot to offer. Nearby Rehoboth Beach has a ton of outlet shops and a much longer boardwalk with lots of shops and restaurants as well, which I got to spend a day doing. At the same time, Bethany Beach offers mini golf and has arcades nearby, even though we didn’t go since it was crowded. As for outdoor activities and sports, Bethany Beach has many gorgeous and scenic trails and walking paths as well as a brand-new park right by its boardwalk. Many people also bike around the boardwalk area too, which I love to see!

Getting to go to Bethany Beach this summer was such a treat and it was even more fun to do with my family to get that time with them. Bethany Beach has such a strong family-friendly and down to earth atmosphere that made me LOVE it as a sweet beach town. Personally, I always feel that a beach trip is needed at least once a summer, and this summer it was needed more than ever.

XOXO – Katie <3

thepinkchickadeeLeave a comment

DIY Monogrammed Lilly Pulitzer Notebooks

Hey y’all! As a new school year approaches, it just may be time to upgrade your typical notebook to start it off fashionably strong. This past semester, I decided to spice up my notebooks with my own preppy twist that I wanted to share it with y’all!

Materials

  • 1-5 subject spiral notebook (I usually buy mine at the cheapest price from either Walmart or Target)
  • Modge Podge (I got mine from the Dollar Tree)
  • A computer with Microsoft Word

Directions

  • Look up your favorite Lilly Pulitzer prints online and add them into a Microsoft Word or Google Docs document and create a collage out of the prints online the size of a page or one print per page (whatever your liking may be!). I decided to use Postcards From Positano, Peel N’ Eat, Hangin’ Around, & Who Let The Fronds Out.
  • Add a text box into an existing document and place it over each printed page (or create text boxes in a new document if using old planner pages). Proceed to type your information in the text box and customize the font and size of the font to your liking.
  • Print the pages and prepare each page to place on each notebook.
  • Using modge podge, seal each page onto its corresponding notebook.
  • Place each monogrammed decal on each notebook; I purchased mine from a classmate of mine Destiny Eudy). However, there are many great deals on Etsy too!
  • Enjoy!

Bravo! You have made your own monogrammed Lilly Pulitzer notebook! I hope you enjoy going back to school/class in a bright and bubbly fashion.

XOXO – Katie <3

thepinkchickadee1 Comment

How I Juggle College Life!

The socials, the hangouts, the study sessions, the meetings, the positions, the classes, and even jobs, OH MY! College is an exciting time, yet it can be one of the craziest most robust times of our lives as well. Most of us, like myself, are typically balancing a lot of various commitments and activities each day. Life at college is fun but it can also be extremely stressful if not properly managed. With the school year approaching us, I am going to be sharing how I juggle college life and the many things that I do on a regular basis.

Planners Are Your BEST FRIEND!

Establishing some sort of planning system is definitely going to help you to stay on top of everything that is going on. I have used both paperback planners, like those from Lilly Pulitzer and Erin Condren, and Digital planners through Google Calendar and Apple’s Calendar. Over time, I have come to prefer having everything on a digital front, as I have been one to forget to write everything down in my paperback calendar after the first week of classes *not gonna lie*! However, I do know that paperback planners are best for others and that is great. The most important thing is that you find the planning system that is BEST FOR YOU! Once you do, make it apart of your daily ritual!

To-Do Lists Will Become Your Best Friend As Well!

Along with having a planner, creating a to-do list is an excellent way to ensure that you conquer that many things that you have to do on the daily in your college life. I put things as simple as putting together a grocery list for the week to things for my blogging platform to things as complex as a Programming project or studying for a test. It helps me to break everything down into what I need to do each day or over the weekend. For instance, if I have a big test on a Wednesday, then I may write on my to-do list the week before and the Monday and Tuesday the week of to take some time and study for that test. The same idea of breaking to-do list entries down goes to a big project, paper, or even a homework assignment. Having everything together on one list helps me to conquer all of the things that I have to do, and I know it will help y’all too!

Use Syllabus Week as Planning Week!

Although syllabus week may feel like a major treat in the college world, it does not does any of us any justice to simply attend class and use the afternoon as a time to do anything but focus on our new courses. Typically, college syllabi come with a calendar of important dates to remember for your courses – test dates, project due dates, assignment due dates, etc. Once you have those dates in hand, I would highly suggest breaking out your planners and to-do lists and writing everything down. Come up with your plan for how you will complete each of the tasks that come with your classes the moment you get that syllabus.

At the same time, as someone who is involved in clubs and organizations as well as my school’s events, I always jot down the important dates that I need to remember for these commitments along with my academic one’s. Usually, clubs and organizations will either send out their meeting dates via email or have it posted somewhere online like a school website. Like a syllabus, I would write down all of the dates that you are committed to attending a meeting or event. If you have anything that you know you need to do before any of those commitments, then I would add them to your to-do list. Social commitments are just as important as the academic commitments in the college world, as both shape us into the people that we are and will become. Being able to complete tasks in both our academic and social worlds will help us to be well-rounded college graduates going into the real world in the years to come.

Things WILL Pop Up Last Second and That’s OKAY

While we can always plan to the best of our abilities, nothing will ever go perfectly as we anticipated. You may have a social outing or meeting last longer than you anticipated and that is OKAY. You may have an assignment simply creep up on you and that is OKAY. You may have something pop up with your friend or roommate that you need to tend to and that is OKAY. You may just need an evening for yourself and that is OKAY. Even though it may feel like a pain when things creep up on us that we do not expect, remember that it happens to the best of us. The most important thing is that you are trying your best to do all that you can do to juggle it all. Remember that all of us have our days and that is OKAY. We are ALL human.

Leave Time for YOU

While our college lives seem to leave us with time for everything but ourselves at times, it is always important to set some time aside each day for ourselves. Without that time, we will not be able to be our best selves. In fact, putting in time each day to simply wind down or do something that we enjoy that isn’t related to anything in our college lives helps us to be the best that we can be in our college lives. Most importantly, setting time for you helps you to be the best version of yourself in everything that you do!

College is a journey leading to the destination of acquiring a degree. While the classes, assignments, social activities, and everything in between can feel like a craze at times, remember to take time to enjoy where you are at. As a Senior in college, it feels like yesterday that I began my college journey. College will not last forever and nothing ever does, so enjoy the moments along the way. Enjoy the times that you have getting ice cream or dinner with friends. Enjoy the late nights that you and your roommate(s) spend studying and cramming for tests. Enjoy the many t-shirt sales at your fingertips and take advantage of every club or class fundraiser that you want to support *money allowing*. Enjoy the times in class that you spend with those in your major or even those not in your major and get to know your classmates in all of your classes. Enjoy the times in class and in meetings that may just overwhelm you. Most of all, make the best of your college experience and the little things in between it all – they are truly what makes college oh so special!

XOXO – Katie <3

thepinkchickadeeLeave a comment