The Life of Katie!

Most recently, I have been living out the hustle and bustle. Personally, I love love love the hustle! And, lately my life has been FILLED with nothing but the hustle and bustle. Life has been crazy, but it’s been good too. Here’s a peak into my life. And, if you want more updates into my life on the daily, then follow me on Instagram (@_thepinkchickadee).

  • Getting a work desk! – The most exciting highlight of these recent times have been getting a work desk!!! It’s the little things, y’all! I got assigned a work desk earlier this past week, since I got onboarded into the company in the heart of COVID-19, specifically citing the Delta variant times in the Summer of 2021 which extended my work from home times. Although I will be working from home for most likely the majority of my working days moving forward, I will be going into the office a few days a week, give or take, too. The other day, I went into the office and brought a HUGE Scout bag packed to the rim with stuff that I had gotten the day before via a shopping spree to both Walmart and Target to my desk that to my splendid surprise was actually much larger than I expected! It’s in a great location on my team’s floor, too. Let me tell y’all, I felt so so so welcome by simply coming into the office and having a desk that is my own. Luckily, I will be going in more often than I have in the past!
  • Car shopping – Recently, I have started the car shopping process. Last Fall, I car shopped a bit, BUT took a pause due to my busy work life and adjusting to working full time. Similarly speaking, y’all, the CAR MARKET SUCKS at this moment. Y’all, shopping for a car sucks during this trying times with inflation and all. It’s NOT easy! But, I am super excited to get back on the bandwagon of shopping for a car that I will have as my own for the next few years and perhaps beyond. The car that I have been driving now I have a very special bond with to say the least. I am sad to stop driving that sweet car that I have loved so so so much, BUT I am also excited for many more memories in my new future car. Through it all, I feel very very lucky that I am in a financial situation where I can afford a new car and actually make the car shopping experience something that is attainable for me and a good investment in the long run.
  • Blue Light Glasses – A few weeks ago, I put in my order for my FabFitFun Spring 2022 box. And, I ordered some blue light glasses as apart of my Add-On’s. Let’s just say that since I put these glasses on, I have NOT wanted to take them off! Y’all, I do not know how I didn’t make the effort to buy them sooner, especially with my work from home life.
  • FabFitFun Spring 2022 Box – Last week, my FabFitFun Spring 2022 box arrived in the mail! Funny story – it arrived JUST as I was heading out the door to catch my flight for my Girl’s weekend to Raleigh, North Carolina for my best friend Alanna’s 25th Birthday (read more about the Lilly Pulitzer-themed Birthday Party that me and my friend Hannah threw for her here!). Personally, I like to go *just* a bit crazy with my FabFitFun boxes and my Spring 2022 box was NO exception. I got A TON of new and exciting goodies to ring in the Spring 2022 season that feels SO close yet SO far away – we’ve enjoyed some warm weather here in the Washington, DC area for a few days before reverting back to some cold rain and wind the next day. Needless to say, I am excited to enjoy my Spring 2022 FabFitFun goodies in the coming weeks!!
*Some* of my many FabFitFun Spring 2022 Box picks PLUS my Ipsy February 2022 pouch!

Now, I want to know what’s going on in y’all’s lives! Comment here – I’d LOVE to know 🙂

XOXO – Katie <3

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The Life of Katie!

Long time, no life of Katie! January to me always brings about a nice change of pace – a fresh start, a time to create new habits, and a chance to try something new. I’ve said this before and I will say it again: I hate the phrase “new year, new me”. BUT, changes can and will happen in 2022 and I am looking forward to what is to come during this brand-new year. As always, here are some updates into the life of Katie!!!

  • A Marshmallow World – *cues the Christmas song what that exact same title!!* earlier this week, snow came to Northern Virginia. This is my first time seeing snow and a big snow of 10+ inches since before my college days. I LOVED getting to enjoy the snow from my own home (I am NOT one to be out walking in the snow HAHA!). I got some adorable content photos for an upcoming giveaway and for fun, too. It is ALWAYS a gift to be able to see snow – it is magical to me to see. Such a rarity that snow is, yet it’s such a beauty!
  • Lilly Pulitzer Sunshine Sale – If you know me, then you know I am a SUCKER for any sale, especially Lilly Pulitzer’s sales! This past Monday commemorated the January biannual Lilly Pulitzer Sunshine Sale. This year’s sale was so unique that it was only ONE DAY – usually the sale is 2 days. I luckily had a great sale experience, as I shopped online and ordered everything and waited in the waiting line for a mere 2 minutes. The funniest part?! I logged onto the site and was placed into the waiting line, grabbed my coffee, and was in the site once my Keurig finished working its magic. Needless to say, I felt extremely lucky that I was able to shop so quickly and snag so much, too. I am SO excited to be able to shop the sale, as it rarely comes around.
  • Committees at Work – I am excited to say that I have been getting involved in committees at work. My company has so many opportunities for folks to meet and mingle with one another amongst my team of ~100 people, Women in Data Science as well as friends/company members interested in data science, and Early Career Professionals. I have LOVED getting to plan events for friends within my Meredith Community and am so excited to get to do it as an extracurricular at my job, too. Who knew that jobs offered extracurriculars too?!
  • Healthier Eating Habits – During 2022, I want to focus on creating more healthy eating habits. I have subscribed to Hello Fresh and am SO excited to get healthy meals delivered right to my door each week! Papa and I are going to subscribe together and try the meals together, too. We are very excited, as I know that Hello Fresh can help with establishing healthier eating habits in the most convenient way possible (I get my first box this Monday!). At the same time, I am striving to enjoy some healthy meals for lunch and breakfast, too, as meal preps have become the win for this new year!
  • Focus on Faith – This year, I am also hoping to focus on getting connected within my church community. I was actually really involved in my church community back in high school – a facilitated Youth groups for middle schoolers, went on 3 mission trips, 3 church retreats, and many many many church events in between. I have SO many great and meaningful memories from church! Papa goes to a church nearby that I want to get connected to. Back in June, I attended a Celebration of Life for a classmate and family friend of mine who went to heaven much sooner than he should have. It took place at Papa and I’s church, and it made me miss the days when I was regularly attending and connected to a church community. Needless to say, I optimistically signed up for a course to introduce new members to the church starting in-person on January 30!

You could probably say that this blog post screams “new year, new me” – haha! However, through it all, I am excited to make some changes in my life for the better. I have always seen the new year as a time to reflect on the old year and essentially go out with the old and in with the new *cues High School Musical!*.

XOXO – Katie <3

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The Life of Katie!

Now that Thanksgiving is over, I am oh so excited that Christmas is officially in full swing! Personally, I have ALWAYS been a sucker for Christmas time and am ecstatic that it is December, too. Currently, my life has been crazy and overbooked but in a good way. After last year with COVID-19 pretty much shutting everything down, this year is the year to go all out and do it all. In the meantime, here are some updates into my life and all that’s been going on with me.

  • Overbooking – Nowadays, I pretty much have at least one thing a day in terms of events. I have some exciting collaborations, blog posts, and events as well as some trips coming up that it’s ALL so so so exciting. My events and things that I’m doing are so fun and it’s nice that my work is seemingly lightening up on at least one of my projects for the month of December, too. While overbooking is a lot for some, I see it as a good thing if you make it that. Life is all about what you make it, and you must make it rock as Miley Cyrus would say in Hannah Montana – hah! Though overwhelming, I like to go big or go home when it comes to the holidays and I am glad that I will be!
  • Virginia Wine Pass – the other day, I logged onto Groupon and found an amazing deal for a 2022 Virginia Wine Pass. Let’s just say that my excitement was over the moon. The Virginia Wine Pass includes discounts and deals for you and your guests when visiting several vineyards across the state of Virginia. As a proud Virginia resident, I am so excited to be able to visit not one but several vineyards in all parts of Virginia. A lot of them are day trips from my house which make it that more exciting and easy to do. Let’s just say that I have made a HUGE list of Virginia Wineries and Vineyards that I plan to visit in the new year!
  • Missing Travel – COVID-19 has halted many of our travel plans as we know it. I have made some trips within 4-5 hours away since the pandemic began and let’s just say that I really miss taking bigger trips. On the same token, I know that travel is a privilege and that many people in our world struggle to afford food and clothing, let alone taking the time and leisure to travel. So, my missing of travel is most definitely insignificant compared to others’ needs. I am hoping in the new year to take some bigger trips in the states and potentially abroad. But, in the meantime, I am hoping that no more variants spread such as the current variants that others get sick, especially if they can’t afford to be sick or take off of work or school.
  • Shopping Secondhand – In recent times, I have decided to shop secondhand more often than not. My local thrift store has so many good deals and it’s fun to be able to shop ALL of the deals! In fact, I used to shop secondhand a bunch in high school and I had a blast with it. When I moved to Raleigh for college, I never really found a thrift store that I liked with the prices and brands that I love aka the bargains. Thrifting is also super sustainable, too. I am so so so glad that I have gotten back into it now that I am living near the thrift store that I LOVED in high school. Over the past few weeks, I found and bought items from brands such as J McLaughlin, J Crew, Calvin Klein, Boden, Talbots, and Vera Bradley. Overall, thrifting is the best of both worlds – sustainable and affordable!

Life has been hectic but good at the same time. Above all else, remember that social media is only a highlight reel and everyone’s life is NOT perfect. The same idea goes for my blog posts and my blogging platform here.

XOXO – Katie <3

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The Life of Katie + Christmas Decorations Reveal!

Life has been nothing short of a rollercoaster this week – there have been some high’s and some low’s and a bit of magic in between. Through it all, though, I have been able to make some pretty great memories and savor the moments, while also working on myself too. As stated in the title, Christmas is officially in full swing at Chez The Pink Chickadee! I am oh so excited to be able to celebrate some Christmas cheer, even if it may be a bit early for some of y’all. As always, I LOVE to hear what y’all are up to too, so comment something good about this week down below at the end of this post!

What Have I Been Up To?!

  • Self Investment – Currently, I am striving to invest in myself, in my career, and in adjusting to my post-college graduation life. The other weekend when I was at my good friend Laura Kate’s wedding, my friend Lexie and I were discussing the idea that now is the time to focus on us and our world as official adults *I guess???*. There really is not time for an investment in a relationship when there is so much to invest within ourselves. Needless to say, I have been striving to establish myself within my career as a woman in data, work on myself, and keep my platform here on this blog growing and thriving. I am also looking to establish my social life here in the Washington, DC area. This week actually, I am taking a visit to the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) headquarters, as I am interested in joining and need to actually sit down and work on my application *aka procrastination at its finest!*. The DAR application is lengthy. Other influencers have also shared with me their love of The Junior League, so I may have to just look into that, too, since I would probably LOVE it! All in all, me before we at this moment and that’s how it will be for some time!
  • Embracing the holidays – I am oh so excited about the holidays coming up! Since writing my last The Life of Katie! blog post, I have been listening to Christmas music legitimately NONSTOP! And, when I say NONSTOP, I mean the 2+ hour long YouTube videos that are just classic fireplace Christmas songs. These Christmas music marathons of mine have also been amazing for me throughout my work days which are mainly at home. I’ve been planning Christmas gifts for my friends and family as well, and I cannot wait to celebrate time together with others. Personally, I have always seen the holiday season as a time to give to others and spend time with others, too, the food is also pretty great and a major highlight for me too. The other day, I sent three of my close friends money for a coffee, and it felt so so so good. I’m also planning on doing a couple’s massage BUT with my Mom because I want company when I go for my first time and she deserves it more than anyone else in my book – she was SO excited! Needless to say, the holidays are sitting with me pretty well!
  • Thrifting – The other day, I checked out a local thrift store that I have wanted to check out for a while. It had a 5 star rating, and it definitely lived up to the hype! It’s apart of the 2nd Avenue thrift store chain with storefronts in multiple states, similar to Savers and Goodwill. For Veteran’s Day, all 2nd Avenue stores are going to have a 50% off all merchandise sale, which I cannot wait to shop this weekend like they do for many other holidays. I found my favorite Vera Bradley print that is 10 years old – Pink Cupcake – in a tote for only $8 and in excellent quality. Similarly speaking, I also found a Fenton 300th Constitution Signing Anniversary plate – worth around $30 – for $5. I am so so so excited about each of these finds and to find some more gems at their sale later this week!
  • Family Time – This past weekend, my Dad and I went to my late Great Aunt Margaret’s Celebration of Life. My Aunt Margaret and I are very similar people and had a strong bond during her living years. She is the reason that I love Lilly Pulitzer and plaid and wine. She was also the hostess with the mostess and LOVED to travel. The list goes on and on and on about ALL of our similarities. I helped my Uncle’s pick out her floral arrangement to honor her life that I live out and plan to live out until the day that I die. My Uncle’s – her son’s – and the rest of my family put together a beautiful celebration of life complete with an open wine bar and coffee and tea bar to honor her. My Dad and I had a great time seeing our family and honoring Aunt Margaret with this beautiful tribute. Moments like these make me oh so grateful for family and remind me to savor every moment with those that I truly love.

Christmas Decorations Reveal!

Now, for my Christmas decorations 2021 reveal! Most of the decorations are from previous years, The Dollar Tree, Target, and Lands End. Enjoy!

XOXO – Katie <3

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The Life of Katie!

To say that life is crazy is an understatement at times. Recently, I have been babysitting my dog Rosie – a Shepherd-Chihuahua mix from Puerto Rico – and it has been nuts! Rosie is an extremely energetic, high maintenance dog that is also in her terrible 2’s. Needless to say, she takes after her Mama aka me! Although Rosie has been consuming my life for the most part over the past week, there has also been some other things going on in my world as well.

What’s Been on my Mind?!

  • The Dollar Tree being a holiday extravaganza – the other day, I took a pit stop at The Dollar Tree. I had been hearing practically everywhere that this discount store was starting to carry Christmas merchandise, so I *had* to check it out! While there, I got a bunch of Fall/Halloween finds and even some Christmas finds! I also got some gifts for family and friends and even Rosie. It was a very exciting trip and I feel very stocked up for the upcoming festivities, too!
  • Transitioning to a Hybrid Work Environment – if you have been following along on my Instagram, which I would LOVE to have you apart of my Instagram community (@_thepinkchickadee), then you know that my company has been reevaluating our working situation since I started there at the end of July. After talking with others on my projects at work, I have learned that I can work fully remote if I so choose to or I can go into the office. My company will not be in the same way that it was pre-COVID-19 moving forward as many will be able to work remote or telework if they so choose whenever they do choose to. But, that does not stop us all from being able to go into the office if we so decide! I went into the office last week and LOVED it and am excited to go in more. Personally, I am super excited about being able to go into the office and have been making the transition to go in 1-2 days a week, specifically when other coworkers are going in as well.
  • Party Planning AGAIN – I am in the process of starting to plan a small Halloween Dinner Party! I have learned the power of using a phone to send out Evite’s and how much easier it is for everyone else’s sake as well. Before the pandemic, I used to LOVE planning events at my apartment – I hosted a Friendsgiving, Blog Launch Party (read about that here), and Galentine’s Fries Before Guys Party amongst many others – and am really excited to be able to do it again in hopes of planning a Bonfire and Friendsgiving and Christmas Party, too!
  • Car Breaking Down – The other day, I was taking my car out (currently, I am using a family car until I pick out my own) and unfortunately it had some issues. I was taking the car out as I was leaving my Mom’s house and was stopped by a lady in my Mom’s neighborhood just as I was leaving this past Sunday about my car having issues that she noticed. I ended up calling my Mom and Step Dad and we thought I was fine so I went to The Dollar Tree nearby for said haul mentioned above. Then, after many phone calls, we ended up deciding to bring the car in that day. It was stressful and sucked for all parties involved, but fortunately, the car got fixed and is up to speed now. Needless to say, I am extremely thankful that it is!

These are a Few of my Favorite Things!

  • The Meredith Market – My alma Mater, Meredith College, has a sweet shop run by our Mae Grammar Alumnae House called The Meredith Market. As a donor and a proud one at Meredith, I was able to enjoy a sale on some of the shop’s merchandise. I ended up finding out that The Meredith Market is carrying some adorable new finds for preorder, including a North Carolina t-shirt in our school colors maroon and white and a custom LL Bean canvas tote with our school logo – the Meredith Lux. I ordered the t-shirt this time around along with a desk engraved Meredith Lux and a Meredith Lux car sticker for my future car. I also plan to order the LL Bean canvas tote in the coming months too!
  • Dancing with the Stars – I have really enjoyed watching Dancing with the Stars recently! Like every Bachelor Nation show aka The Bachelor, The Bachelorette, and Bachelor in Paradise I have started watching every episode of this show every week on Hulu. Traditionally, I never really watch shows the exact time that they’re live on television (although I am watching the season finale of Bachelor in Paradise as I write this!), but Hulu allows me to watch at my own pace and catch up when I do choose to. I have raved about Jojo Siwa and did last week in my post on this season of Dancing with the Stars along with the former Bachelor Matt James *surprise*! I’m so excited for next week’s two episode series since it’ll be Disney themed in honor of Disney’s 50th Anniversary.
  • Quality time with Rosie – I have loved getting to spend some quality time with my dog Rosie, since Papa has been gone this week. Rosie is Papa and I’s dog and we both love and care for her regularly very much. Since she is a lot of work even more than other dogs, it takes two to do it all. This week, I am taking it all on myself. While it is a whole lot of work, it has overall been super rewarding and most importantly special. The quality time is priceless and I cherish it so so so much!

Recent Purchases & My Wish List Items!

  • A “High Maintenance” toy for Rosie – while at The Dollar Tree the other day, I came across a toy that said “High Maintenance on it and was *of course* pink! I could NOT resist, so I got it for Rosie and she has loved it. Rosie is one to destroy all of her toys in one sitting so Papa and I never see it just to buy her new and fancy toys that will only stay snazzy for a split second once she gets it.
  • Glitter and Daisies Aurora Ears – So, my good friend Holly who runs Glitter and Daisies – a Disney ears shop – is donating a fraction of her proceeds from sales of her Aurora Ears Collection to the American Cancer Society. I most definitely had to get a pair this month as I have been wanting to but had yet to since the shop’s opening! Check out Holly’s shop here!
  • FREE Cookbooks – Last weekend, my neighborhood was having a yard sale. My Mom and I went for a walk around the neighborhood and even scored a few things along the way. One of the things that we both scored were multiple cookbooks for FREE! I got some of the Southern Living cookbook editions from the 1980’s and the 1990’s aka a blast from the past. In my free time, I have been listing out some of the many recipes that I want to try from them all and can’t wait to try them soon!

What’s on the Docket?!

  • Weekend in Raleigh – This weekend – tomorrow actually when y’all see this – I am going to be hopping on a plane to RDU with my Jean jacket and a shift dress. Get the reference – hah! Katie’s edition of Miley Cyrus’s Party in the USA! My Meredith College friends and I are going to enjoy some much needed time together simply catching up, especially at the Meredith Reunion Brunch where I few of us are going to be meeting up at. Although it will be for just two days, I am still very excited to be back in the City of Oaks!
  • Day trip to Charlottesville, Virginia – Since it seems to be that going to just Raleigh this upcoming long weekend wasn’t enough, my Papa and I will be taking a day trip to Charlottesville, Virginia on Indigenous People’s Day. I booked us tickets to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello and I am so excited. I went there when I was 11, so I don’t remember much from it and am ecstatic to be going back again at an age where I can remember it all!

Now that I have shared a bunch about my life and it’s correspondences at this time, I would now LOVE to hear about yours. Comment down below something that you are looking forward to!

XOXO – Katie <3

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The Life of Katie!

Hey y’all! It’s been a while since the most recent sharing of my life of Katie. Essentially, in these blog posts, I provide y’all with a sneak peek into the Life of Katie. I am very excited to be getting back into the groove of sharing this type of post with y’all, especially since I have had a hectic past few weeks. But, before I got into sharing all about my life, I’d LOVE to hear a little bit about yours. That being said, comment below something exciting going on in YOUR life – I want to hear!

What’s Been on my Mind?!

  • Fall EVERYTHING! – Recently, I have enjoyed ALL of the Fall merchandise in stores and everywhere I turn – it’s like its its own holiday. A local to me casino that attracts visitors from anywhere and everywhere for much more than gambling even decked out their atrium for Fall. I even visited a local farm and pumpkin patch – Nall’s Produce – where they were ALL decked for Fall, including a pumpkin wall that’s perfect for Instagrammable photos! At the same time, my Papa and I decorated for Fall outside at our house and it was so much fun. Needless to say, all of the Fall things feels like an extraordinary holiday that lasts until the Christmas cheer comes. Let me just say, I am HERE for it all!!!
  • Gilmore Girls – The other day, I started watching Gilmore Girls. So many of my fellow influencer friends have been recommending that I watch it. I *finally* hopped on the bandwagon and started watching, and I am HOOKED. Lorelai and Rory have the most adorable, ever-evolving, and fun to watch mother-daughter bond. It, indeed, reminds me a bit of me and my Mom’s bond too. It’s such a sweet and funny show and all of the more awkward moments truly demonstrate how it is OKAY to not be perfect but to simply be YOU and live in the moment. Also, clutter is human and a house needs to look lived in!
  • Visit to Philadelphia and Haddonfield, New Jersey – Two weekends ago, I visited Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Haddonfield, New Jersey for the weekend. Not going to lie, I am still on an all-time high from this trip. Fellow influencer and good friend of mine Casey and I preach on how girl time and simply friend time is good for the soul, and it is! My friend Amanda lives in Haddonfield and my friend Violet goes to school in Philadelphia. I was lucky enough to get to see them both on this wonderful trip – I spent a day in Philadelphia with Violet and then the remainder of the weekend in Haddonfield with Amanda. Both experiences were quite amazing and I cannot wait to go back closer to the holidays!
  • Jojo Siwa Making History on Dancing with the Stars – About 8 days ago, Jojo Siwa, an openly LGBTQ+ pop star, made history by being the first-ever celebrity to go onto Dancing with the Stars with a same-sex partner. Let me just tell y’all – I am so so so amazed by Jojo Siwa and all that she has done in her short 18-19 years of life. I mean, this girl came out, has a girlfriend and an adorable relationship with her too, and breaks barriers everyday of what it means to be a super well-known LGBTQ+ celebrity in Hollywood. It’s incredible what this young woman has done for the LGBTQ+ community and others not apart of it. I have been cheering her on along with former Bachelor Matt James this season. Seeing her perform a killer dance on Dancing with the Stars was literally just the icing on the cake to all that she has accomplished so far!

These are a Few of my Favorite Things!

  • Nall’s Produce – This past weekend, Papa and I visited a local pumpkin patch, farm, and market known as Nall’s Produce. Nall’s Produce has been around since Papa moved to the Washington, DC area in the 1960’s. Their pumpkin wall, pumpkin row, and pumpkins EVERYWHERE was an influencer’s dream! I had a blast getting to stroll the aisles of this absolutely stunning marketplace, and I cannot wait to go again as the seasons evolve.
  • Movie Nights! – The other night, I met up virtually with two of my fellow influencer friends Holly of Glitter and Daisies & Lindsay of Sunshine and Stair Climbs and we enjoyed a movie together. We watched Home Again on Netflix featuring the iconic Reese Witherspooon. This was my first-ever hangout with fellow influencer friends, and it was amazing! We definitely plan to have movie nights again very soon. Needless to say, influencer friends are some of the best friends, and I have intentions to meet up with other influencers along with Lindsay and Holly in the near future, too, whether it be virtual or in-person.
  • Paradise Springs Winery – Last weekend, Papa and I visited a local vineyard about 15 minutes from our house – Paradise Spring Winery. Let me tell y’all, Papa and I fell in LOVE with this vineyard! Paradise Springs Winery is super down-to-earth and stunning. People of all ages – kids and dogs alike – were enjoying the place with their rolling hills and hills of fields and benches to enjoy live music and fun times together. The facilities were extraordinarily beautiful and so was the exterior. Not to mention, the flights provided each guest with 6 cups of wine for $15!!! Aka a steal! Needless to say, Papa and I were remarkably impressed with this vineyard, and we cannot wait to visit again soon, especially with friends and family and *of course* our dog Rosie!
  • Lilly Pulitzer’s Paws for a Cause Print – Each year, Lilly Pulitzer comes out with a Paws for a Cause print in honor of Breast Cancer awareness. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the brand donates a portion of the proceeds to Susan G. Komen. This year’s print name is Purposefully Pink, and, y’all it is GORGEOUS! Breast Cancer runs in my family to some extent and I know several women who have been affected by this disease in their lifetime (whether themselves or a family member), so I always find it important to support where I can. I am so excited at how pretty this year’s print is (they all are!) and even purchased a throw in the print! You can shop it below!

Recent Purchases & My Wish List Items!

  • Fall Groceries – My favorite purchases have been from Target and Trader Joe’s. I have a running list in my mind of some of the many things that Trader Joe’s carries that I just *have* to get every year during this Fall season! Not to mention, TJ Maxx and Home Goods have the most adorable Fall finds, too, including Fall-themed coffee grounds and fat free coffee syrup. My favorites have been: Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Soup, Trader Joe’s Zucchette Pasta, Delight’s fat free Pumpkin coffee creamer, and Pumpkin-flavored yogurt.
  • Sweater and Winter Jacket for Rosie – Recently, I purchased my dog Rosie a rain jacket from Chewy. This was my first-ever jacket bought for Rosie, and I was a bit nervous about how she would react to it and whether or not she would simply rip it off upon me putting it on her. Thank goodness and to my surprise, she did not! So, since it will be getting cooler in the coming weeks/months, I am now on the lookout for a sweater and winter jacket for Rosie, as she is a Shepherd-Chihuahua mix. The stores that I will be searching at during this time frame will be Chewy, Target, TJ Maxx/Home Goods/Marshall’s, and Lands End.
  • Lilly Pulitzer Sunshine Sale – As a Lilly Pulitzer lover, I shopped until I dropped at the Lilly Pulitzer Sunshine Sale (formerly known as the After Party Sale) these past few weeks. Some of my purchases include: a Sophie shift, a Trista shift, a Kristen Flounce dress, a romper, a Midi sleeveless wrap dress, the Tosha shift dress, handprinted wine glasses, a water bottle, and a mug. To me, Lilly Pulitzer sales are my Super Bowl, since I do not watch the Super Bowl beyond the commercials!
  • Philadelphia Aids Thrift Store $1 Bucket Sale – When I was in Philadelphia, my friend Violet and I visited the Philadelphia Aids Thrift Store, which donates a portion of its proceeds to AIDS research. Philadelphia Aids Thrift is notorious for its $1 bucket sales, where you can purchase items out of a bucket for $1/each. I was able to score: a Michael Kors black puffer jacket, Gal Meets Glam white pearl jumpsuit, LOFT tank, Banana Republic navy blazer, LOFT navy pants, and much more! Needless to say, I want to go back for sure.

What’s on the Docket?!

  • Trips to Raleigh Planning – With October coming up, so do my two trips in October to Raleigh, North Carolina! I went to college at Meredith College down in Raleigh, North Carolina and I loved every minute of it. I will be visiting friends for a college reunion and weekend, respectively on each trip. The planning has started, since I have booked my flight for the first weekend and am still working out the kinks for the next trip. Altogether, I cannot wait to go back to my college town!
  • Visiting Arlington – My good friend from Meredith College will be in Arlington soon and I cannot wait to meet up with her and explore the area. Surprisingly so, I have not seen much of Arlington beyond Pentagon City and most specifically the mall there, so I cannot wait to explore as there’s so much to see there!

Now that I shared ALL about what’s going on in my life, I want to hear about YOURS! Comment down below something that you’re looking forward to!

XOXO – Katie <3

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The Life of Katie!

Hey y’all! Today, I will be sharing my third-ever The Life of Katie! Fortunately, these have become quite a hit here on this platform, so I will continue to do them for weeks to come. As always stated in these posts, before I get into sharing a peek into my life and the inner workings of my life and how I spread my own confetti, I want to hear a bit about yours. So, at the end of this post, comment below one or two things that you’re looking forward to this week – I would LOVE to know!

What’s Been on my Mind?!

  • Chicago Med, cont. – Recently, I have been watching a LOT of Chicago Med. Y’all I LOVE THIS SHOW! While I do love Grey’s Anatomy too and the patients that they bring into the hospital, I have found that I prefer the patients and their cases that Chicago Med has brought on a bit more. Not to mention, I really love that this show has a psychiatric program that is regularly seen on the show – it is something different that I think is so so vital to today’s society and especially with hospital patients and their cases. At the same time, they have a regular doctor on the show who is on the autism spectrum, which brings about a ton of diversity even more than what the show’s cast has to offer. Needless to say, this show is a hit and has oddly enough, helped me to be more productive with my work.
  • Pumpkin Spice, am I right?! – Creamer, syrup, and coffee grounds, oh my! I have been LOVING the pumpkin spice season, especially with it now being September! Recently, I purchased Mr. Coffee’s Iced Coffee Machine and have been enjoying every minute of owning it. I have been brewing up ALL the iced pumpkin spice lattes in the comfort of my own home since. Through it all, I have been embracing this pumpkin spice season, and enjoying every minute of it!
  • Addison Montgomery coming back to Grey’s Anatomy! – If you know me, then you know I LOVE Addison Montgomery from both Grey’s Anatomy and its spin-off Private Practice. This past week, actress Kate Walsh who plays this favorite character of mine announced in the form of a super fun Tik Tok that she would be coming back onto Grey’s Anatomy for its upcoming Season 18. Let me just say that I am SO SO excited that Addison Montgomery is making her first appearance back on the screen after around 10 years. It’ll be super fun to see her back at it again and as a regular within the ever-evolving show cast and of course with causing drama for the series lead Meredith Grey!
  • Fall recipes! – The other day, I saw a meme about how, since it is September, it is officially soup season! My mind has been wrapped around the idea of all of the adorable Fall recipes that I can be doing this season, from Butternut squash soup, to spaghetti squash pasta, to candy corn cookies. At the same time, I am super excited to be able to hit the aisles of Trader Joe’s and local Farmer’s Markets in the coming weeks for Fall goodies to try in my own kitchen, too. I have been doing a lot of meal planning and searching the web and Pinterest to admire some of the many Fall recipes that I plan to try this season.

These are a Few of my Favorite Things!

  • Downtown Fairfax, Virginia – The other day, I took a day trip to downtown Fairfax, Virginia. Located in the heart of Northern Virginia’s Fairfax County, Fairfax, Virginia has an ADORABLE tiny downtown that has lots to do. I made a visit to go get dinner with my friend Haley at the local Coyote Grill and we had a great time! Not only was the food good, but the restaurant’s atmosphere was even better. Haley also lives right near the downtown, so it’s fun to know that I have someone I can see who calls this adorable place home. Needless to say, many of the other restaurants in downtown Fairfax gave me that same appeal. Luckily for myself, downtown Fairfax is an easy 20-30 minute day trip from my own home, and I will be back very soon.
  • Glitter & Daisies – One of my good fellow influencer friends, Holly, of Glitter & Daisies created her own shop selling Disney ears with the same namesake! Holly has worked countless hours, days, weeks, and months to get this shop up and running and she is so deserving of all the glory that has come to her since. Her Disney ears are oh so adorable and provide several ounces of glam, especially if you’re going on a Disney trip or doing a Disney run (virtual or at the parks). This past weekend, Holly’s shop went live and she is doing so so so well since it did, and I could not be any prouder. Above all else, I cannot wait to place my order after Lilly Pulitzer’s After Party Sale! You can shop her site here: https://www.glitteranddaisies.com.
  • Mr. Coffee Iced Coffee Machine – Last week, I unboxed my Mr. Coffee Iced Coffee machine. Let me tell y’all, it is amazing! I am so excited that I was able to purchase this easy-to-use iced coffee machine and how much money I will be saving, too. I will be publishing a review on this iced coffee machine later this week, so be on the lookout for that. In the meantime, the other day on Facebook, I spotted that this exact iced coffee machine is being sold for $15 at Walmart. So, run!!!!
  • The Dollar Tree’s Fall Decor – I have been oh so excited, whenever I walk through the doors of my local Dollar Tree, to admire ALL of the Fall decorations. From wooden silhouettes in the shapes of pumpkins and witches, to block decals even in the form of a monogram, to outdoor scarecrows, to pumpkins, The Dollar Tree has it all. The Dollar Tree has truly stepped up their game in the recent months/years. In fact, my friends Kaylee and Julia go there for holiday decorations and decorations in general and I can see why! I have similarly started doing the same, myself, too. Needless to say, I am excited to go back and make a visit this week for even more Fall decorations.
  • My new do! – Last week, I *finally* got rid of my long, COVID-19 locks and opted for a shorter AND blonder hair do! I have been going to the same hairdresser for almost 10 years now and my mother much longer than me and I could not not go to her yet again. I had a great time getting my hair done and am excited about my new look. Y’all, it WAS about time!

Recent Purchases & My Wishlist Items!

  • Fall Decor – This past week, I went to both Hobby Lobby and The Dollar Tree, in order to purchase Fall decorations. Soon enough, I will be revealing my Fall decorations for this year on my social media and here on the blog. Let me just say that there are SO many adorable decorations on the shelves this Fall y’all!
  • Ipsy – Back in June, I finally took the plunge and got an Ipsy Makeup Bag monthly subscription. I have to say that I LOVE getting new and exciting makeup finds that I would not have found elsewhere each month. August, I got an eyeshadow duo palette and a blush that I LOVE and have been wearing since I unzipped my pouch!
  • J Crew Factory Fall Items – I’m a sucker for J Crew! J Crew Factory has continuously been one of my favorite fashion brands. Their new Fall arrivals are oh so adorable, and I cannot wait to shop them in the coming weeks. In the meantime, I am having the hardest time being able to decide which item(s) to take the plunge on and purchase. Though, I will say that I LOVE their scalloped tanks, paper skirts, patent wedges, and top knot headbands.

What’s on the Docket?!

  • Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale – Rumor has it, the Lilly Pulitzer After Party Sale will be occurring within the next week or two. Let’s just say that this girl will be shopping until she drops. I always use the September After Party Sales to stock up on Lilly Pulitzer products that I can style someway for the Fall months. I am also a sucker for Fall, y’all, and cannot wait to wear some Lilly even if it is cooler outside!
  • Sunday Football Day – Sunday is a big football day, especially in my family’s house! This upcoming weekend, my Dad is coming into town to watch the football game with my brother, so I will be baking them some Italian football snacks and lunch. I am super excited to be able to provide my Dad and brother with some fun snacks to enjoy their football fun on the couch!

Now, as stated up above, I would LOVE to hear what you’re up to this week! Comment down below something that you’re looking forward to!

XOXO – Katie <3

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The Life of Katie!

Hey y’all! Welcome to my second-ever The Life of Katie!, where I will essentially be taking y’all into my life and the inner workings of how I create my own confetti. As always, before I get into sharing a bit about my own life, I want to hear a bit about yours. So, at the end of this post, comment one or more things that you’re looking forward to this week – I would LOVE to hear!

*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.*

What’s Been on my Mind?!

  • Chicago Med – *surprise, surprise* Yes, I started binge-watching yet another medical drama television show! I have been obsessed with ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy and its spin-off Private Practice, so I guess watching another was in the works! I’ve most definitely enjoyed this show and the drama that it offers.
  • Work it gurl! – Recently, I have been working on literally working it! Whether it be in my job, on my blog, or focusing on my own self and personal goals, I am striving to create and achieve my own goals in life. In this time of my life, I think it is important to not only invest in myself and my career, but also where I would like to go in my life beyond college. Thinking along the lines of where I see myself 5 years from now, the answer may still be a bit uncertain but I do have an idea of the person that I want to become and how I will acquire the skills to become that woman.
  • Fall – Y’all, I AM SO SO SO EXCITED FOR FALL!!!! Yep, you heard me right! With Labor Day weekend upon us, my Fall-obsessed brain has been planning all the Fall content. Although I do not want to giveaway what’s all in store, y’all, I will say that it’s exciting!

These are a Few of my Favorite Things!

  • Rae Dunn’s Fall Tumblers and Mugs – I am oh so obsessed with Rae Dunn! Recently, her Fall collection hit the shelves of Marshall’s/TJ Maxx/Home Goods, and I have been smitten. Although I am one that does not usually purchase holiday-oriented tumblers/cups/mugs that I will only use a few months out of the year (surprisingly, I am very practical here!), I found the tumblers and mugs on the shelves of my local Marshall’s/TJ Maxx/Home Goods to be oh so adorable and perfect for those who love holiday-themed tumblers and mugs to sip their favorite drink out of and embrace their best Fall lives.
  • Semi-Reversing Last Week’s Blog Structural Changes – Trial and error, y’all! Sometimes new systems put in place do not work, and that is OKAY! I have since realized that my blog structural changes that I put in place last week were not realistic given my super Type A planner persona, so I went back to that structure for my blog, and I think it is for the better. Although I won’t be all out planning, I will be planning a lot more and embracing content ideas as they come to my brain and as I or any other fellow influencer should!
  • PSL Season! – It doesn’t get any more basic than this! Last Tuesday August 24, the Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) hit every Starbucks everywhere. As a fellow PSL lover, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to grab a hot PSL despite the 90+ degree heat and humidity here in the DMV – HAHA!
  • Washington, DC TJ Maxx’s – I have recently discovered that the TJ Maxx’s in Washington, DC have a better selection of items than the one’s by me at my home base of the nearby Northern Virginia. In the past few weeks, I have visited multiple TJ Maxx’s, Marshall’s’s, and Home Goods’s locations and have indeed preferred the one’s in downtown Washington, DC over the one’s closer to home. I definitely think that my shopping desires better meet those of city folks – maybe I’m just a city girl at heart?!
  • Lilly Pulitzer’s New Arrivals – Last Friday, Lilly Pulitzer launched the second line of their brand-new Fall collection. If I tell you that my obsession with it is an understatement, then I would be telling y’all the straight up truth. I am more than obsessed with Lilly Pulitzer’s second Fall line, and I will be the first to admit it. The purple’s, green’s, blue’s and even pink’s are oh so gorgeous and perfect for the upcoming Summer-to-Fall transition and into the Fall/Winter season. You can shop some of my favorite pieces below!

Recent Purchases & My Wishlists Items

  • Mr. Coffee Iced Coffee Machine – So, last week I was having trouble falling asleep. Being the caffeine addict that I am, I found myself just a few minutes later purchasing the Mr. Coffee Iced Coffee machine off of Target’s website with it being on sale for $25. I have yet to test it out since receiving it a few days ago, but I plan to this week. Many of y’all have asked me about it as y’all are considering purchasing one, too, so be on the look out for some reviews.
  • Lands’ End Maxi Dresses – I have recently most definitely grown to loving Lands’ End! So, long and behold, I made yet another purchase. Lands’ End is always having clearance sales, and I loved how confident I felt as a 5’2 woman who was finally able to sport a maxi dress that she didn’t need to get hemmed thanks to their Petites section. I was actually telling my Papa how confident I felt in my maxi that he suggested that I buy more, so I did just that!
  • Cora’s Den Olaf Earrings – My friend Cassie is a MAJOR gift giver! She came to visit last weekend and she got me the most adorable Olaf earrings from Cora’s Den. Olaf is my absolute favorite Disney character, so I was more than thrilled when I saw that precious pair of earrings awaiting me!
  • Lands’ End Denim Jackets – Lands’ End strikes yet again! This time around, I also bought denim jackets along with some maxi dresses. I have been loving Lands’ End’s clearance section and, since they had denim jackets on clearance, I could not resist getting myself some of this Fall weather fashion staple for a steal. You can purchase them here!
  • Gifted Customized Girl’s Weekend Merchandise – So, last weekend, my good friends Cassie and Caroline came to visit. Cassie, in fact, owns her own oh so adorable Etsy shop and small business Cassie’s Designs! Cassie designs many customized products that are affordable and adorable – perfect for the budgeting person who wants customization! Being the super sweet and extremely talented and crafty lady that she is, Cassie designed wine glasses and t-shirts for us all to commemorate our super fun Girl’s Weekend here in Washington, DC. You can shop of my favorite products of hers and enjoy photos of the merchandise that she gifted us with below.

What’s on the Docket?!

  • Certifications – This week, I am starting a brand-new certification in order to achieve one of my professional goals. I like to say that I am a closeted nerd, as I love love love coding and analyzing alll the data. This certification that I am starting includes both of those things along with some interesting coding/data analytics applications that I didn’t learn in my undergraduate years. It’ll be fun to add onto my portfolio and expand my skills in the workplace, too.
  • Fall Trips – Currently, I am getting oh so excited to plan some fun Fall trips! This Fall, I am making up a bit for lost time last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic with family and friends. So, I will be traveling to a few places along the East Coast to see some of my friends and family who I have yet to really see since the pre-COVID days.

Now, I would LOVE to hear what you’re up to this week! Comment something you’re looking forward to below!!

XOXO – Katie <3

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