Travel Blogger Archives - Page 8 of 17

48 Hours of a New Jersey Christmas

New Jersey is known as the “Garden State” and many people never get to truly see why. New Jersey is a magnificent state and it’s filled with a vast array of beauty. My Aunts, Uncles, cousins, Grandpa, and some of my best friends currently live in New Jersey, giving me plenty of opportunities to go back and visit. In fact, I was actually born in New Jersey and lived there for 5 years of my life! Needless to say, I love love love New Jersey and some of the many things that it has to offer – history, beaches, beautiful countryside, pizza and bagels, and its close proximity to New York City and Philadelphia. This past weekend, I visited one of my childhood best friends Chris in our hometown where I used to live of Pennington, New Jersey in the Central part of the state.

For more United States travel inspiration, check out my Exploring 50 States expedition page.

Day 1 – Pennington Holiday Walk

Coffee with a View Part 1 – in front of Twirl Toy Shop!

Every year, the town of Pennington puts on a Holiday Walk. At the Holiday Walk, they light the town tree, the streets are closed, and many of its local businesses – which fill the streets rather than well-known chains – distribute hot chocolate to attendees for free. All of the local businesses also stay open later so that Holiday Walk goers can shop and support locally. Some of my favorite shops are The Front Porch, Twirl Toy Shop, and 2nd Time Around (a secondhand store that I sadly closing come January 1, 2022). The Front Porch happens to have an online store, too, so I can luckily shop my favorite finds from the DMV! Chris and I also went to Vito’s Pizza – our favorite New York or what I like to call New Jersey style pizza shop that has been around for YEARS – with his girlfriend Kim and our mutual good friend Andrew.

Throughout the night, we all walked the carless main streets of Pennington. Snowflakes that light up twinkle throughout the streets as they line the poles along the Main Street. Pennington is filled with so much historic charm that has remained in tact throughout the years. Its churches that reminisce those of cathedrals straight from the streets of London with their hand-painted stained glass windows, the homes that have been around for centuries and still maintain their unique, historical charm, and its small businesses – some of which have been there for decades, including The Pennington Market and the Pennington Apothecary. Whether its daytime or nighttime, Pennington’s historic charm shines through, especially during the holiday season filled with holiday cheer at every turn you make.

Coffee with a View Part 2 – in front of Poppy Boutique!

Coffee with a View Part 3 – in front of a dazzling Snowflake!

Day 2 – Titusville

On my second day here in beautiful New Jersey, Chris showed me one of his favorite places to walk – Titusville, New Jersey. Titusville, New Jersey is conveniently located along the Delaware River across from Washington’s Crossing Historic Park in Pennsylvania which lays on the other side. There are many riverside views that we were able to take in, even in the Wintertime! The trail along the Delaware River takes you through to a mystical, Victorian style magical wonderland. There are homes, a Titusville church, a cemetery, and several waterfront views that line it. All of the houses were decked out in their best Christmas way to spread some holiday cheer. Needless to say, despite the cold and the less than picturesque than Fall, Spring, and Summer Winter trees, I loved Chris’s regular walk and am so glad I got to do it with him. I was immersed into learning about the historic Titusville, New Jersey from just a simple walk!

Chris and I had an amazing weekend together. Chris is extremely well-versed with his knowledge of Pennington and its surrounding areas, including Titusville. He LOVES New Jersey and is so proud to be a born and raised resident there that it makes anyone want to be proud of their own heritage and hometowns, too. We had such a beautiful weekend getting in friend time and some sightseeing, too. All in all, a true blessing!

XOXO – Katie <3

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DC Diaries Part 9 + Moving On From My College Years

Well, it’s been quite a while since I have shared a little bit about my life here in Washington, DC. To say the least, it has been a bit of a journey since I last wrote a DC Diaries blog post. However, through it all, it has been a rollercoaster but I have realized that I am coming out of these past few months ready to take on the world now more than ever before. At the same time, I am starting to move on from my college years and even embrace the new world that I am living in.

Once I graduated from college, I almost felt like I was still in college. I still had my friends, despite living up in Washington, DC. Though I did have my friends and professors’ support from afar, my life was changing and so were my fellow Class of 2021 friends’s lives. Many of us started jobs or graduate school programs or were deciding just what to do next. Whatever the case may be, we will always be one another’s classmates, but we wouldn’t be seeing one another on a regular basis like we would in our college years. Consequentially, I also didn’t start my job until 2.5 months after my college graduation – something that I am extremely grateful that my company suggested I do. So, it was a weird feeling going from the college world to the working world. I missed seeing others my own age regularly, especially as I was working from home. Needless to say, it was quite strange going through all of the motions of being in a setting with all of my classmates who all happened to mostly be my own age to being around people of all ages.

To be honest, the transition from college life to the postgraduate world SUCKS and it really SUCKS. I have always been one who likes to tell the truth and not hear things in a sugarcoated fashion, most specifically when it could hurt me in the long run to hear it in that manner. When you aren’t around those your own age constantly, it can be hard and I have felt it on and on and on again. Personally, I started to go through my college years and try to relive things that I missed about them, whether it be friendships or relationships that never seemed to blossom. But, after careful reflection, I realized that the more reliving I attempted to do, the more I was trying to fill a void within my own heart of missing the college years that I had just left. It’s a weird time and it is quite difficult for anybody to process – even my coworkers who are older than me have said that.

Although I do miss my college years, I am glad that I am not in college anymore. My college years are over and they are over for the better. I had four extraordinary years of college, and I am eternally grateful for them. While in college, I was ready for a change. I knew that while I did love Raleigh, I did not love it enough that I wanted to make it my home after college.

As for my life in Washington, DC, I am *finally* starting to figure out what I want to do next. There are some exciting ways for me to get involved that I have yet to share, but will in time’s due. I am also looking at starting something exciting and doing some event planning within the scope of my company. The opportunities for me outside of work are rolling in and I couldn’t be more excited!

When times get tough, I am a firm believer that better times are always to come. Remember that, my friends and fellow readers.

XOXO – Katie <3

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My Favorite Trips Abroad

Today’s blog post is more of a blast from the past! As I am *finally* starting to travel again like many of us are as well, it’s fun to look back on some of my many international travels pre-COVID-19. I feel very fortunate and blessed that I was able to travel vastly and wide when it was safe to and am looking forward to when it is safe to too. In college, I traveled to Canada, England, Scotland, Italy, The Vatican, France, Bulgaria, Belize, and Greece via study abroad and travel. Today, I will be sharing a photo flashback diary of some of my many adventures abroad! Bon Voyage!!!

Palace of Versailles Gardens, Versailles, France

Campobello Island, New Brunswick, Canada

Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Stratford Upon Avon, England

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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How I Manage Blogging While Working Full Time

If you’re a blogger, then you know that there is much more work that goes into having a blog than what meets the common eye. Even if you’re not a blogger, then now you know this fact. Blogging is a lot and it’s a great side hustle of mine. Indeed, some folks blog full-time such as Kate from Lonestar Southern – a favorite of mine over the years. However, many of us bloggers do work full time jobs like myself and may not have a desire to pursue it full time. Today, I will be sharing how I manage blogging while working full time!

How I Manage Blogging While Working Full Time

Separating my “creative brain” and my “working brain” – This is something that I will admit that I work on everyday. One of the ways that I can be most successful with my blog is to separate what I like to call my working brain aka the brain and mindset that I put on when I am at my full time job and my creative brain or the mindset that I utilize for thinking creatively on this platform. In doing so, I am able to put my mind into a mode that is all in and focused on the task that I am performing and the objectives that I am striving to achieve, whatever it may be for. Being able to compartmentalize both of these mindsets has helped me to be successful in both my full time job and here on The Pink Chickadee.
Working 9 to 5 – *queues Dolly Parton!* Working the 9 to 5 lifestyle is definitely the way that we all are going for the most part when working full time. When working my full time job, I aim for 8-5 actually to be the hours that I focus solely on work and only work-related matters. During those hours, I specifically do not post on my blogging platforms, whether it be the actual blog or social media accounts. However, if I get off work early, then I may post a little bit earlier. Not posting on social media from 8-5 helps me to truly focus on my work and only my work. Moreover, it allows me to separate both of my commitments and prioritize things at different times.
Side Hustle Hours – The other week, I was listening to a podcast from Thrive – a company that solely focuses on empowering bloggers and their successes – featuring entrepreneur and a stationary-loving queen Erin Condren. In her interview, Condren stated that a lot of the time many of us with side hustles have to emphasize the focus on our creative thinkings during the weekends and at night time. As annoying and sometimes disappointing as that may sound to some, the focus on our full time jobs during the typical workday is vital to our successes, even within our side hustles, including our blogs!

The blogging world is a fun and exciting world filled with many commitments. But, so does the full time job world! The full time job world is just as fun and exciting and it allows us to fulfill our passions in other disciplines, too. The balance between blogging and working full-time is a challenge and something that I work on everyday in each, but it is so rewarding in the end.

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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48 Hours in Philadelphia Area + My Favorite Philly Sights!

Like others say, weekends away are ALWAYS good for the soul. This past weekend, I was fortunate enough to be able to spend it in Philadelphia. Personally, I am ALL about saving money especially when I travel and doing it with those that I love. That being said, I stayed with my good friend Amanda and her family, who I grew up knowing as a kid, and spent the first day with my friend Violet who goes to school in the city. All in all, it was an amazing weekend and great for the soul!

I spent my first day, Friday, in the city of Philadelphia. I took Amtrak in bright and early and hung out in the city. Tip of the trade: major Amtrak stations, including Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station, allow for visitors with an Amtrak ticket to store their baggage at $10/bag of any and all sizes to be stored at the station for the day as they go out and explore. So, I stored my bags at the station and went out to the city streets. My first stop of the day was Independence Hall – the building where the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were both written and signed. It was so so so exciting, as I actually toured Independence Hall on Constitution Day – the day that the Constitution was coincidentally signed! My tour of Independence Hall only costed me $1 to reserve online and tour. Tours lasted approximately 20 minutes and were super neat and empowering, too.

After the tour, I channeled my inner pumpkin spice-loving basic white girl and ate a Trader Joe’s pumpkin bar while admiring Independence Hall at the outdoor park while I waited for my friend Violet. Once Violet arrived, we went to the world’s largest Wawa. Wawa is a gas station similar to Sheetz that sells sandwiches, soups, coffee, etc. made to order and it’s so so so cool! Indeed, going to the world’s largest Wawa was an experience for the books – it did not feel like I was in a traditional gas station marketplace. Rather, I felt as if I was in a city station – filled with opulence and sheer city charm. After our Wawa lunch and excursion, Violet and I went to a super cool part of Philadelphia that has a ton a murals, small businesses, and thrift stores. We went into 3 super cool thrift stores that also double as vintage shops, too. While shopping, I scored some extraordinary deals – a Michael Kors jacket, Gal Meets Glam jumpsuit, Banana Republic Blazer, Valentino Rock Stud dupes flats that are sold to this day at DSW, and a J Crew dress. I paid only $25 for everything which was pretty incredible!

Since my hangout with Violet, I then headed off to New Jersey to go to my crib for the weekend in her nearby town of Haddonfield, New Jersey. A fun fact about Haddonfield is that it is the hometown of 2020’s Bachelorette winner and fiancé to former Bachelorette and Bachelorette hostess Tayshia Adams Zac Clark. In fact, a family friend of Amanda’s actually knows Zac – my Bachelor Nation fangirl heart gleamed way way way too much. While there, Amanda and I walked around the town – Haddonfield is indeed a gorgeous town – and went to a Wine Festival in the nearby town of Haddon Heights, New Jersey. I had never been to Haddon Heights before this past weekend, but it was such an adorable little town right by the train station. Y’all, New Jersey was named the Garden State for a reason!

Through it all, I had an amazing time in Philadelphia and New Jersey this past weekend. But, before I go, I have listed a few of my favorite sights to see in the area from my trip this past weekend and from trips previously taken!

Independence Hall
Liberty Bell
Reading Terminal Market
Philadelphia Museum of Art & its steps
Magic Gardens
Franklin’s Square
Rittenhouse Square
LOVE Park
Penn’s Landing
One Liberty Observation Deck
South Street

Here’s to a great weekend with even greater adventures!!!

XOXO – Katie <3

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Relationship Sunday’s – Starting Out & Moving While Single

When my Papa graduated from college, he got married and was whisked away into his married life for years to come. That was in the 1960’s. While the 1960’s days are far behind us, many still envision starting their lives out with a significant other by their side. I know of many couples who either get married or are committed upon graduating from college and choose to move in together upon graduating from college. Needless to say, it can be daunting to move and start out on your own as a single person, but it is also empowering.

Personally, I moved from North Carolina to Washington, DC upon graduating from college in the Southern state. I knew that I wanted something different after being in college and living in North Carolina for four years. Before even graduating from college like a few years beforehand, I knew that I wanted to live in Washington, DC and start out there. My mother started out in Washington, DC and tells me about all of her fond memories of her time in the nation’s capital. The same goes for my Dad. Once I found a job opportunity in the Washington, DC area, I knew I had what I needed to achieve my Washington, DC dreams!

When I was in the beginning of my college years, I had always envisioned moving in with a partner that I had met in college, whatever city it may had been. I probably was hoping that I had been able to move to a city beyond Raleigh, too, as I have an adventurous spirit. As time went on, I ended up dating somebody that I thought had the potential to be the one. It was my Senior year of college when I started dating them, and they lived in North Carolina in a different city than my college town and did not want to leave. Many of my connections for post-graduation jobs are in the Washington, DC area where I wanted to and now live. Needless to say, I became very stressed out looking for jobs in a place that I had not wanted to live in, but rather felt pressured to live for the life that I had hoped I would have. During those relationship days, I missed being single and having the freedom to move around without worrying about anyone else. We ended up breaking up after 2 months, and it was one of the best decisions that I had made, especially for my future.

Starting out single was not in my plan for my life. Yet, starting out single was what was best for me, despite me not anticipating it. It can be hard and is hard moving to a brand-new city without a significant other in sight. Some of the challenges with starting out as single and making a move include:

The Moving Process – Let’s get this straight: moving can be a challenge. Most specifically, when you’re on your own, it can be difficult to move and move on your own, too. I was fortunate enough to be able to move close to family and have family help with both moving out and moving into my new city. The moving process is daunting – the moving trucks, the moving fees, the heavy lifting, and the packing/unpacking. Even with family help, it took me almost 2 weeks to unpack all of my belongings and fully set everything up in my new place. However, if you are doing it all alone, there is no reason to not utilize help from others. If you’re moving to the Las Vegas area, then Muscle Movers LLC Las Vegas can do all the heavy lifting for you! Not only can they help you move your belongings on move-in day only, they can also help you with packing and unpacking into any type of place, whether it be residential or commercial. At the same time, if you’re living in Las Vegas and moving across the state, to another state, or even overseas, these long-distance movers in Las Vegas can provide ALL of the facilitation regarding your move – find details here.. All in all, Muscle Movers LLC Las Vegas is a great way to allow others to help you with your move, especially if you’re moving on your own as a single lady (or gent!).

Lack of Connections – Moving can be a struggle, especially when you do not know a soul in your new town. It can be tough when you do not know anyone beyond your coworkers, apartment mates, or even the mail man. It essentially feels like as if you are a new kid in high school in a new city. But this time, it may be without family and friends. Case in point: if you went to college and lived in a dorm in a place different than your hometown, then you probably didn’t have an established social network when you left. However, for most of us, you developed that social network, academic network, and professional network while in college. You did it during those university days, and you will do it again, but this time, within your brand-new city. You WILL establish a vast social network, grow professionally, and grow personally, too – right in your own new city!
Not Having a Go-To Person Nearby – When single, it can be quite difficult to move when you do not have a go-to person right then and there, such as a significant other. There’s a lot of emotions that pop up when moving – stress, excitement, sadness, happiness, etc. It can be nice to be able to go through all those emotions with someone else. At the same time, it’s also nice to be able to have someone right by your side who can go explore and get to know your new town with, too. When single, not having someone who is right then and there to do things with can be difficult. But, on the flip side, when doing things on your own and independently creates confidence and allows you to grow and expand your network in a whole new light than if you were in a relationship. In fact, you may even meet your person while expanding your network while single!

Overall, moving while single can be remarkably challenging, but it has its perks, too. You can meet a bunch of people on your own timeline and have the flexibility to move on your own without worry about anyone else. Nevertheless, you get to expand your network on your own terms and only yours.

XOXO – Katie <3

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My Packing Essentials!

If you know me, then you know I pack *way more* than I need even for a day trip! Needless to say, I am an overpacker and I am not afraid to admit it. I have been fortunate enough to travel and be able to do it quite often, even for the day in my new city of Washington, DC. So, I have picked up several packing essentials of mine along the way, which I will be sharing today!

*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.*

My Packing Essentials!

Packing Squares – If you have been following several fellow influencers, then you have probably seen the hype behind packing squares! Packing squares range in all rectangular/square sizes and are amazing when allowing one to pack a ton of things, especially into smaller luggage items. They are an excellent organizational tool that allows you to even categorize your items that you’re packing, such as items for two different locations or lingerie versus pajamas and loungewear/activewear versus dressier items. When I travel overseas, I ALWAYS pack my items in packing squares – they’re easy and practical and allow me to store all of my items in one space. Tip of the trade: rolling your clothing items and garments into a packing square allows you to maximize your space and pack many more items than you could have ever anticipated!
Duffle Bag – Duffle bags have been amazing for me. They’re not only great for weekend trips and road trips of all kinds to say the least, but they’re also pretty great for carry-on’s for plane rides, too. I have owned multiple Vera Bradley duffle bags for 10+ years now, and they are AMAZING! They have lasted all these years, too, on all of my many trips which says something for sure. Last year, I purchased the Lands’ End Canvas Duffle and *of course* monogrammed it. Let’s say that I love that duffle bag, as well!
Pouches – Whether for a day trip or a long weekend away, pouches have been my favorite essential to bring practically everywhere. I use them for makeup, feminine products, jewelry, work things, and even essentials within my purse. My favorites include pouches from gifts with purchase when I buy my Clinique foundation in multiples during the holidays, thrift store pouches, and most recently Rae Dunn pouches. Let’s just say that my pouches dominate my bags, especially when packing! Tip of the trade: pouches are great when you have totes/bags without a zipper. That way your items stay secure and are stylishly covered.
Insulated Water Bottle – Insulated water bottles are AMAZING for travel. They keep your water cool and are a great necessity to carry your water wherever you go. When I studied abroad in Italy, they had free safe drinking water fountains all across the city of Florence and others for tourists and locals alike to fill up on water and stay hydrated. The same concept goes for United States cities, too, as water fountains are everywhere you turn in all major cities and buildings and beyond. You also can help safe the planet when carrying an insulated water bottle, as you’re not buying a bunch of plastic bottles. Tip of the trade: pack an empty insulated water bottle when boarding a plane and fill it up once you get to the gate and through security. That way, you save $5+ on a water bottle at the airport!
Printed Bandana/Head Scarf – One of the most stylish ways to travel is with a printed bandana/head scarf! I use them to tie onto my suitcases and bags to look all that more stylish. Especially when traveling, exhaustion is real. So, anything stylish is the way to go!
Crystal Lite Caffeinated Packets – If you know me, then you know I am OBSESSED with my caffeinated beverages. In case you didn’t know, Crystal Lite has caffeinated sugar-free packets that are great for fueling up in the middle of the day. Like many of y’all do too, I struggle with the afternoon, post-lunch slug. So, I use caffeinated Crystal Lite packets from my local grocery store/Target/Walmart to purchase them. The best part?! I can add a packet to any water bottle, shake it when shut, and then go on my merry way!
Mini Hair Brush – There are many times that I have out of all things forgotten my hair brush. I always leave a mini hair brush from The Dollar Tree in my go-to travel bags for that reason. At the same time, traveling can be long and tiring, so being able to grab out a hair brush no matter how big or small is great to have. Not to mention, whenever I forget my hairbrush, I ALWAYS have one.
Zippered Tote Bag – Although I do LOVE my un-zippered tote bags, I do love a zippered tote bag, especially when traveling. My favorites over the years have been my Longchamp large Le Pilage totes that I have in red, pink, and tan (I own this color in the Small size) as well as my Kate Spade polka dotted tote. Although I do not have one myself, Lilly Pulitzer also has some pretty awesome packable and washable totes. I have used these tote bags and they have been through it all and back and still remain in their beautiful and true glory. Durability is key, and my zippered tote bags are extraordinary for my travels.
Hand Sanitizer – I may sound like a COVID-19 safety queen, but it’s true – hand sanitizer is your best friend when traveling! Wherever you go, pandemic or not, it is always good to make sure that you have some hand sanitizer on hand and take that extra precaution. My favorites been the Bath & Body Works spray bottle with 71% alcohol that come in the brand’s trademark scents. Mine has lasted me almost a year!
Wifi Hotspot – Wherever you go, wifi is an essential when working. As I am working and working mostly remote, it is important that I am able to access all of my work-related matters from wherever I am. Tip of the trade: it is more secure for me to be on a wifi hotspot, than on a hotel or airport wifi.
Oversized Sweatshirt – I am one that gets super cold at night. While at home, I love to wear a comfortable fluffy robe when I sleep, but it can be a pain to pack. So, I pack an oversized sweatshirt and college sweatshirts have been my favorite over the year to pack! For a typical trip, I usually pack a Lilly Pulitzer popover, Vineyard Vines Shop Shirt, or a trench coat (depending on the travel occasion) when traveling and then I pack an oversized sweatshirt (or two) just for sleeping. I also curl up with a blanket, too, so it’s nice to have an oversized sweatshirt to keep me warm through the cold nights, specifically in hotel rooms that can be FREEZING at night. My favorites recently have been from United Monograms!
Insulated Coffee Cup – Just like an insulated water bottle, an insulated coffee cup is a must when traveling. It allows me to be able to drink coffee on the go and in-style. My favorites include the Vera Bradley coffee cups in their oh-so adorable prints. Not to mention, it is easy to pack and a whole lot cuter than the one’s given at hotels or if you’re lucky provided at an AirBnb!
Batiste Dry Shampoo – When traveling, it is easy to not take a shower for a day or two or even three, especially when on the road. If you’re like me, then you probably use the hotel-provided shampoo whenever traveling. Sometimes the hotel-provided shampoos do not work magic on your hair. Batiste Dry Shampoo is the magical potion for allowing me to look and feel my best when I haven’t taken a shower or my hair doesn’t make me feel like the queen that I am. Tip of the trade: hit your local Walmart to Target for their travel sections with travel-sized products, including Batiste Dry Shampoo!
Trench Coat – I am a sucker for an adorable trench coat! Personally, I have loved the glamour of them from the 2000’s movies, like Bride Wars and Confessions of a Shopaholic amongst many more. I have also discovered that trench coats spice up any look and add an element of glamour to any look, whether it be a yoga pants and t-shirt get up or a dress. I bought a trench coat and got it monogrammed from Lands’ End last year and I LOVE it!
Disposable Face Masks – Yet *another* COVID-19 precaution! Disposable face masks are key to have on hand when traveling. Especially when you have to wear a face mask for hours on end, disposable face masks make it much more bearable and comfortable to do just that. I like to pack a pack of disposable face masks with me wherever I go. Tip of the trade: layer a disposable face mask underneath your cloth face mask. That way you look cute and are comfortable while you’re on the road!
Laundry Travel Bag – Last but not the least, laundry travel bags are great for travel. While most people use them for laundry, I like to use mine for shoes. Since laundry bags come in all shapes and sizes, I use the bigger one’s for sneakers and boots and the smaller one’s for sandals, flats, and heels. Overall, they’re great for multi-purposing!

Shop some of my favorite packing essentials, here!

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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