Travel Archives - Page 3 of 6 - The Pink Chickadee

A Day in Washington, DC Without a Plan

Some of the BEST travel plans that I have had have had anything BUT a plan. The other week, my good friend Bryn and I went into Washington, DC while she visited me with anything, BUT a plan. ALL we had planned, in fact, was which Metro (Washington, DC’s subway transit system) stop to get off at. From there, the rest was up to us and seemingly our minds!

So, funny story, Bryn and I are AWFUL at waking up early – haha! We, indeed got going in the mid-afternoon and hit my local Metro stop for the Smithsonian stop within Washington, DC with our snacks, coffee, and masks on hand. Once we got off at the Smithsonian Metro stop, we walked to the nearby notable Smithsonian of Washington, DC at the National Mall. If you don’t know much about Washington, DC, the Smithsonian is Washington, DC’s collection of museums that are government-run and FREE to all who come to visit. Some of the Smithsonian’s museums include – the Museum of American History, the Museum of Natural History, the Air and Space Museum, and the Smithsonian Castle aka the original and first-ever Smithsonian museum/building. The National Mall is conveniently located right along the Smithsonian, so as you explore ALL of the Smithsonian’s incredible museums, you also get to admire some of Washington, DC’s many monuments – the National Monument, Lincoln Memorial, the Capital, and much more! Once we arrived, we did nothing else BUT get hot dogs and soft pretzels at a local food truck. Another amazing part of Washington, DC’s National Mall is the MANY MANY MANY food trucks lining the streets alongside it.

Once getting hot dogs and pretzels, Bryn and I simply took in the incredible views of Washington, DC that are all around us. We, then, walked over to the Capital where we took wayyyy too many photos and admired the views of our extraordinary nation’s capital. And, we *of course* had to stop to enjoy some coffee and gold fish that we had packed while admiring where all of our United States Presidents have been inaugurated and a major building of many decisions being made within our country, too, have happened. The pond, steps, fields, and pathways surrounding the Capital are super stunning, y’all! It’s worthwhile, too.

Since yet again fueling up at the Capital, we headed over to the White House – a sight in which Bryn wanted to see while she was here visiting. The walk to the White House takes about 30 minutes from the Capital. One of the BEST parts about this walk is that it includes seeing the National Monument along the way. We *of course* had to stop there to take some pictures, too! BUT, the very very very best part of this walk that we took was that it happened to be that we took this walk at sunset. Sunset made our walk so so so much more stunning than on any other given time. It was so cool to see ALL of the monuments light up at night and shine brighter than a diamond. Then, when we got to the White House, it was dark and the White House was beautifully shining for all to see. Sometimes, visiting the White House and simply seeing it outside can be tough – given Presidential events, protests, and much more. BUT, we got lucky a few weekends ago while there AND it wasn’t crowded, either. It was a great time to just sit and admire the home of all our Presidents (well, most of them!).

After the White House sightseeing, we headed for the nearby Metro station and back to my house. Bryn and I both had an amazing time and each spent under $15 including food and Metro tickets, especially given that we had packed some snacks beforehand. All in all, a truly fun, spontaneous, and affordable day aka three of my FAVORITE THINGS! Blessings come in all sizes and packages, including those that are of the most unexpected.

XOXO – Katie <3

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My Highlights of 2021!

This is my first full year as a blogger and it has brought about a whirlwind of emotions – both good and bad. Through it all though, I have had an extraordinary community here at The Pink Chickadee that has only flourished in this year. Earlier this week, I shared my Blogging Highlights of 2021 and a favorite outfit from each month (you can read more on that here); however, today’s blog post will solely focus on a peek into my personal life aka The Life of Katie!!

Winter 2021 (January-March):

In Winter 2021, I kicked off my new year in what I thought would have been the beginning of forever for me – I was dating somebody that I envisioned spending the rest of my life with. I came out as apart of the LGBTQ+ community here on my blogging platform, even though many of my friends knew about my sexuality before in fact years before I shared it publicly. I began to make many more connections thanks to my coming out here on this platform and am oh so grateful to have witnessed nothing but support from it all! Though I had high aspirations for my then-partner, I started to realize many red flags when dating them that for my own sanity I ended up breaking off the relationship in February. I became a victim of a mentally abusive and exhausting relationship, which I realized after breaking it off after a few months of dating them and thank goodness I did! While dating this ex of mine, I wished to be single more times than I did enjoying dating them. So, when the break up came about, I truly felt nothing but liberated.

Right after my break up, I truly began to change up my search for a job in my dream post-graduation life city: Washington, DC. My ex insisted that I live in North Carolina, in order to be close to them, where I barely had any luck finding a job in. On the flip side, I was starting to get some luck with some of my many connections in the Washington, DC area. My networking search continued to grow most specifically in the Washington, DC area. I was so excited that I ended up visiting the area where my Mom and Papa live for Spring Break. With a friend of mine, we stayed at my Papa’s house where I got to meet his dog Rosie who is now proudly mine too for the very first time. And, I went ALL around the city, even during the COVID-19 pandemic and pre-vaccination era, including: The National Mall, Nationals Park, the Jefferson Memorial, Clifton in the Virginia countryside, Old Town Alexandria in Virginia, and National Harbor in Maryland. Needless to say, it was an amazing time and I, then, decided to solely continue to search for a job in only the Washington, DC area via an announcement on the blog! The best part?! I was SINGLE and more than ready to start out on my own.

Spring 2021 (March-May):

Since announcing my move to the Washington, DC area, things started to only look up from there. My Papa has a basement that doubles as an apartment, which he graciously was excited to allow me to move into at a much cheaper than Washington, DC area rent cost. So, I had a place to live. I started to network even more which landed me an incredible job that I am still at today in the Northern Virginia area. So, I had a job. And, Papa had Rosie – a Shepherd Chihuahua mix from Puerto Rico who has since become my dog, too, and has made me a Dog Mom. So, I had a dog. All of this post graduation life excitement was in the city of my dreams. Needless to say, my life was looking pretty great when it came to my life after college!

During the remainder of my Spring 2021 semester, I had classes all online except for one – Public Speaking. Public Speaking was all about female empowerment and was indeed the best class to wrap up experiencing the in-person aspect of classes. I see that class as God’s way of giving me closure to my academic career for the time being. At first, I was super upset that I had an in-person class, but looking back, it was a great gift to have! At the same time, my college opened up the opportunity for many more in-person events. We had a Senior class parade, Alumnae Induction Ceremony, Graduation Ceremonies for the Class of 2020 (which I volunteered as a Marshall for), and a Freshmen class dinner which I also volunteered for. Most importantly, I got to help plan an in-person event called Class Day with my friends Maggie and Miranda (read more about that here!) and had an in-person graduation ceremony in the courtyard of my beautiful campus! I celebrated my achievements by being awarded 4 awards across my campus by my professors, classmates, and staff. Meanwhile, I got to celebrate my 22nd Birthday in-person, my friend Chandler’s 21st Birthday in-person, go to Ocean Isle, North Carolina with friends as a pre-graduation trip (read about here), take graduation photos with my friends Chandler, Addy, Miranda, Hannah, and Sophie (see those here – shoutout to Hannah and Quinn for the amazing photos!), celebrate my graduation with a Grad Party courtesy of my mother, and many dinners and lunches and brunches in between! It was a hectic yet super special time.

Since graduating, I immediately packed my bags into a huge U-Haul and Papa’s truck and made it with Rosie who is by the way NOT a lap dog on my lap to Washington, DC. Papa and I enjoyed some pizza that night and began to unpack the next day. The rest of my month of May consisted of me unpacking and getting settled into my brand-new home.

Summer 2021 (June-August):

My Summer 2021 was kind of a bummer. I didn’t have any trips except for a few weekend trips away and it was starting to hit me that I was not living with all of my friends just a few doors down. It sucked for a while, but I managed. Fortunately enough, my best friends Hannah and Alanna came for the weekend of July 4th and my best friends Caroline and Cassie came at the end of August. It was so much fun to be able to visit my new town with some of my best friends. At the same time, I also took several day trips in my new town – the Washington National Cathedral, the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Georgetown, the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, the National Mall, the Smithsonian American Museum of History, and Nationals Park. I was also able to explore much of my new state – Virginia – including: Burke Lake Park, Vienna, Old Town Alexandria, Mason Neck State Park, Occoquan, and Mosaic, Clifton. I also spent A LOT of time decorating my new apartment with pieces that I have had for years and some newer pieces (see my bedroom, pantry, office, patio, and kitchen respectively). I have explored my own home decor style and learned that I am most definitely a bright Palm Beach Grand Millennial who happens to not live in Palm Beach – haha!

Summer 2021 also marked the start of my career, with my first-ever salaried job starting in the end of July. While an intimidating at first glance, working full time has been super empowering and rewarding at the same time. I have begun to get involved and network within my own company and continue to do so – something that everyone should do!

Fall 2021-Christmas 2021 (September-December):

As my work progressed, I began to honestly feel a bit depressed during the Fall months. I was loosing my college experience, as I watched those in my network go back for their highly-anticipated Fall 2021 semester, despite the fact that I had already graduated. I had and still have yet to get my bearings in my new hometown: I am still in the process of making new friends and establishing new connections. There is so much excitement, but there is also so much nerves and sadness too. I spent a lot of time alone this Fall 2021 season, simply processing it all and hoping to find a way to feel connected. I also work primarily remote and will continue to at my company moving forward. It hasn’t been easy, but I hope to feel connected with others in my hometown and in my workplace very soon.

Meanwhile, my life looked anything but drab on the outside! I traveled ALL over the place – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Skyline Drive at Shenandoah National Park, Virginia; Pennington, New Jersey; Haddonfield, New Jersey; Raleigh, North Carolina for a Meredith College Reunion and a wedding as well as the NC State Fair; Bethany Beach, Delaware; and Charlottesville, Virginia. I had experienced many blessings with many friends and family and a great holiday season, too! My good friend Shivani moved to the Washington, DC area too and it was great to be able to have someone to do some fun things in this area with as well – we went to Georgetown and Ballston and she even fit right into our family at Thanksgiving Dinner. My Dad also spent some time with me at my apartment in November, which was such a blessing, too! Despite some of the post-graduation hardships, I also feel like there were many many many blessings within the silver linings.

Highlights!

Celebrating my 22nd Birthday with Caroline, Claire, Hannah, Miranda, and Chandler

Graduation photos with Sophie – champagne and all!

My pre-graduation trip to Ocean Isle, North Carolina

Hosting my Housewarming Party and getting to see my good friend Sarah

My Graduation Party with Julia, Kaylee, Alanna, Hannah, Sophie, and Macy

Seeing where the Constitution was signed on Constitution Day in Independence Hall in Philadelphia with my Pumpkin Spice Latte

Uncle Ed’s Ice Cream with Chris, Andrew, Joe, and Tim in Pennington, New Jersey

One of my favorite photoshoots with my Big Sis Macy

My bizarre lighthouse experience at Fenwick Island Lighthouse in Delaware

Class Day was a success after planning it for 6 weeks and getting to have it in-person!!

Photoshoot and picnic fun with Hannah and Alanna in Dorothea Dix Park in Raleigh

My Fourth of July visitors – Alanna and Hannah

Visiting Nall’s Produce for all of my Fall Instagramming needs

Graduation photos with Miranda and Chandler

My first-ever visit to the brand-new Meredith Lake at Meredith College

Meredith College Reunion Weekend with Alanna, Kaylee, Julia, and Chandler

My solo trip to the Washington National Cathedral

Going to a wine tasting with Amanda in Haddon Heights, New Jersey

My first-ever Nationals game with my best friend Wyatt

When Cassie & Caroline came to town and made a pit stop at the White House!

Visiting my new favorite winery – Paradise Springs Winery in Clifton, Virginia

Graduating and becoming hotter by one degree – my parents luckily were able to watch me walk across that stage!

Picnic with my good friends Violet and Haley

Day trip to Skyline Drive at Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Papa’s family reunion 2021 in Carlisle, Pennsylvania

Visiting my Lil Sis Lelia and my Grand Lil Madelyne at Meredith College

Visiting Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia with Papa

Going back to the NC State Fair with Alanna, Hannah, and Bryn

Visiting Chris in Titusville, New Jersey

The Alumnae Induction Ceremony at Meredith College with Chandler – our first in-person event since COVID-19!

Visiting my best friend Amanda (Christmas Village in Philadelphia)

If you’re oh so curious about what I was up to in 2020 (surprisingly, it was a pretty good year for me!) you can read more about that in My Highlights of 2020 blog post (linked here).

XOXO – Katie <3

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48 Hours of Philadelphia Christmas Cheer

Merry in Philly! This past weekend, I visited my best friend Amanda who lives in Haddonfield, New Jersey (right outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) for a Christmas weekend of fun away! Personally, I have always LOVED the Pennsylvania/New Jersey area. I grew up about an hour North of Philadelphia in Pennington, New Jersey (read on to see my weekend in Pennington last weekend here!) and this area of the mid-Atlantic most definitely feels like home, despite me not actually living there. While in Philadelphia, Amanda and I did ALL the Christmas things that the city has to offer!

Haddonfield, New Jersey

Haddonfield, New Jersey is one of the most precious little towns about 15-20 minutes outside of Philadelphia. It’s an older town that has maintained its charm throughout its modernization that’s centuries long and ever-evolving. There are some stunning churches that resemble those of an old English cathedral courtesy of my study abroad experiences in London, England. At the same time, Haddonfield offers a plethora of small businesses, whether it be restaurants, cafes, shops, and ice cream/gelato parlors. The town gets ALL decked out for Christmas in the most extra and beautiful way possible. It’s a great town to live in and let alone visit!

I have visited Amanda many times in the past, so I have been able to see and admire the downtown streets of Haddonfield many many times before. However, I have had less of an opportunity to do just that at Christmas. Amanda and I walked the streets of Haddonfield during the day, getting coffee at Saxby’s – a New Jersey/Pennsylvania chain that I actually found once in Georgetown, Washington DC last month, and checking out some of the adorable small businesses. One of my favorites that is literally Instagrammable and just drop dead gorgeous on every shelve you turn when it comes to small businesses is Home On Haddon – a home goods boutique that I recently discovered when writing this blog post – HAHA – has an online shop, too. Another small business that I LOVE is a consignment store with an online section – carrying several designers and name brands known as Raks Thrift Avenue. There’s a cute little restaurant there that serves diner-like food called The Bistro on Haddonfield, which Amanda and I enjoyed a Sunday brunch at before I headed back to the nation’s capital. After brunch at The Bistro on Haddonfield, I discovered a newly opened town gem – Downtown Cookies. Downtown Cookies had an adorable balloon arch for ALL of your photo and social media posting needs. Not to mention, their cookies are literally to die for good! Haddonfield most definitely has some sweet gems within its main downtown area that I know anyone can enjoy!

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

On Saturday, Amanda and I spent the afternoon and early evening in Philadelphia. From Haddonfield, downtown Philadelphia is just a few direct stops away on the PATCO line – easy as that! Once we got into the downtown, we went to the Christmas Village that the city has to offer. The Christmas Village of Philadelphia is located in the downtown area right in front of and around City Hall and LOVE Park. Christmas Village offered ice skating, a Ferris wheel, a mini train for children, a carousel, and had several shops and food places along the rows and rows of the Christmas Market. We both didn’t really shop or eat at the Christmas market since it was expensive. Rather, we went to two of the many super fun and Instagrammable pop up bars nearby! I have been fortunate enough to see ALL of the sites in the City of Brotherly Love over the years that enjoying a few drinks can definitely be the focus for me when visiting this magical city.

As for the Christmas bars, I forget the name of the first one we went to but it was right beside City Hall and LOVE Park and in the center of ALLL the action. It had adorable little Christmas houses to sit in and enjoy drinks outdoors with space heaters all around. Meanwhile, the second bar that we went to was Tinsel – a pop up bar that only comes during both Halloween and Christmas time. Tinsel is located on 12th Street South and is next to an adorable Black-owned Popcorn shop with online ordering – Go Popcorn – where we got to meet the sons/cousins of the owners. Tinsel is in a rather small venue, but they have a line to get in – it moves FAST do not worry – in order to keep down on crowds and be sure that all guests pay their $5 cash cover and are of age and is decked out into the 9’s. Tinsel is most definitely a grab a drink, take a picture, and go type of place but it’s still super fun for that allotted time. Amanda and I split a hot chocolate that came with a souvenir Santa cup/mug to take home. After about 20-30 minutes of admiring the gorgeously decked halls of Tinsel, we headed back for Haddonfield.

Philadelphia is one of my all-time favorite cities. I love it and am so glad I finally got to experience it as a 21+ woman, as I was a lot younger the last times that I went! It’s always a blessing to see friends like Amanda, whether near or far.

XOXO – Katie <3

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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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Two Weekends in Raleigh

Throughout the month of October, I have been very lucky to be able to travel twice to my college town of Raleigh, North Carolina. I have loved my time in Raleigh, despite my desires not to move back there any time soon, and am oh so grateful that I have been able to visit my friends that have become my Raleigh family yet again! Today, I plan to recap my time in Raleigh during both weekends!

Weekend 1 – Reunion Weekend!

Brunch at Cracker Barrel with my Meredith sisters, including Chandler!

For my first weekend to Raleigh, I traveled down to Raleigh for an Alumnae Reunion at my college – Meredith College. My friends and I who are all 2021 alumnae along with a good friend of ours who is a 2020 alumnae and I all planned to attend a reunion brunch with Meredith College alumnae of all ages and class years. We were really looking forward to going to this super fun and exciting reunion, but Mother Nature had other plans for us. Unfortunately, there were flash flood warnings all morning when the brunch was to happen, and since we were supposed to be outside in covered tents, the brunch was sadly cancelled. Each of us was super disappointed, especially since I traveled all of this way by plane for the weekend and not being able to attend what I came to Raleigh for. However, I do not like to be a pessimist so I made the best of it. Fortunately, my friends and I decided to go to Cracker Barrel for brunch, instead and were able to get a full refund in lieu of attending the brunch. Our Cracker Barrel outing, while not ideal, was still super fun. In the end, it’s all about being there with your friends and classmates and simply enjoying the time together. Essentially, I came to make memories with friends and I for sure conquered that objective!

Since I could not go to campus the day prior for the Meredith College Reunion Brunch, I knew that I could not leave Raleigh without stepping foot on my sweet sweet campus (read more about that experience here). My hostess with the mostess and best friend Alanna and I decided to go to campus ourselves. Meredith College had instilled a brand-new lake on campus just a few days before our visit. We most definitely *had* to check out the lake, which we were both in heaven over, too! After visiting Meredith’s campus, we decided to take a visit to our favorite nearby shopping district Village District. Village District is home to several local boutiques and chain favorites in the most intimate and customized shopping and dining experience possible. Personally, Village District has always been a favorite place to hang of mine, whether it be for shopping, eating out, or taking photos in front of its many recently instilled murals around the grounds. Both strolling along the grounds of Meredith College and Village District was indeed a sweet walk down memory lane.

Brunch at Cracker Barrel with my Meredith sisters Alanna, Kaylee, Julia, and Chandler

Visiting the brand-new Meredith lake on campus

Weekend 2 – Wedding and State Fair Weekend!

The North Carolina State Fair with my best friend Hannah

The first weekend that I came to Raleigh was the weekend of many North Carolina college’s Fall breaks. I have friends either still at Meredith College and or graduate school at the nearby North Carolina State University or both. So, my second October weekend in Raleigh gave me the chance to be able to see some of my friends that I didn’t see the first weekend. So, to kick off my second weekend in Raleigh, I got to see my good friends Hannah and Chandler for dinner at an Italian favorite spot of our’s – Amedeo’s. Later that night, I saw my good friends Julia, Bryn, and Hannah – yes, I have many friends named Hannah – hah! Then, the next day, I got to see my Lil Sis Lelia and my adorable Grand Lil (her Lil) Madelyne who I got to meet for the very first time as well as my friends Julia and Gabby for some much-needed manicures. Lastly, I saw my best friend Claire at our favorite coffee joint – Lucky Tree – and enjoyed some much needed time in-person. It was most definitely great to get to see so many folks that I hadn’t have seen since graduating!

One of the major reasons for me coming back to Raleigh was to make a visit to the North Carolina State Fair. If you follow me on Instagram, then you know that I am always sharing that “there’s nothing finer” whenever I refer to the North Carolina State Fair. I surely agree with that statement which remains this state fair’s tagline! Personally, my best friends Alanna, Bryn, and Hannah and I who all went to the North Carolina State Fair together and I were extremely overwhelmed with the extremely heavy crowds when we went. Despite the crowds, we still had a great time and enjoyed some lemonade, popcorn, and deep fried cookie dough. We, in fact, ended up going to the lake at the State Fairgrounds where it is held each year and hung out there and admired the sunset, since NO ONE was there. Though the North Carolina State Fair wasn’t what we had anticipated, we each still had an amazing time.

Lastly, my final leg of my Raleigh adventures was my time celebrating my good friend Laura Kate’s wedding. Laura Kate was one of my first friends at Meredith College and she stuck around over the years. She had such a beautiful, intimate wedding and I was honored to be able to be there with some of my good friends, such as Kaylee, Julia, and Lexie. At the same time, I also got to see some of my Meredith classmates that I haven’t seen in a few years, since we all graduated and moved onto bigger and better things. If you know me, then you know I am a MAJOR sucker for a beautiful wedding and just attending someone’s big day and Laura Kate’s wedding was NO exception!

The North Carolina State Fair with my best friends Alanna, Bryn, and Hannah

Dinner with my good friends Hannah and Chandler

Lunch with my Lil Sis Lelia and my Grand Lil Madelyne

Celebrating Laura Kate’s wedding with my good friend Julia

Through it all, my two October weekends in Raleigh were nothing short of a blessing. It was so great to be able to attend some great events, whether it be a reunion, state fair, or a wedding, even though things may have not gone according to plan at times. At the same time, I LOVED being able to see friends both near and far again and pick up right where we left off. Blessings all around!

XOXO – Katie <3

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6 Hours in Charlottesville, Virginia

They say Virginia is for Lovers and it truly is! Indeed, Virginia is also a great place for single’s too. Over the past few weeks, I have explored some of the extraordinary state that I have recently called home, living right outside of Washington, DC. Some of those places include Charlottesville, Virginia to visit Thomas Jefferson’s homestead of Monticello and Shenandoah National Park’s Skyline Drive. Since visiting some of beautiful Virginia, I have now wanted to explore more of it too!

Last week, my Papa and I took a tour of Thomas Jefferson’s home base of Monticello in Charlottesville, Virginia. The whole way there, Charlottesville and its surrounding areas are filled with breathtaking sceneries of the Virginia Wine Country and mountaintops. Charlottesville is located in the heart of Virginia’s Wine Country. It is also home to the University of Virginia, founded by Thomas Jefferson, himself, and seen from the Monticello estate at its mountaintop. While at Monticello, we could see the Blue Ridge mountains and the Virginia Wine Country from up above – breathtaking views were seen all around, though, from the homestead and its grounds to the scenic views all around. The best and most inspiring part of visiting Monticello was our tour. Papa and I chose to do the $40/person 45 minute guided tour, and it was the way to go. Our tour guide taught us a lot about Jefferson’s home, which took 40 years to construct, and emphasized on the former President’s beliefs of “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” and how it pertains to everyone regardless of their race, gender, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, sexuality, religion, ethnicity, ability, and much more. All in all, visiting Monticello was a great and empowering experience.

As for the rest of Charlottesville, we pretty much just visited the local Cookout before getting lost driving downtown and then deciding to just head back home – HAH! While it was great to get Cookout again, I hope to tour a bit of the downtown Charlottesville again real soon, too. Besides Charlottesville, when it comes to other Virginia-based trips, Richmond, Norfolk, Blacksburg, Virginia Beach (although already visited), Sperryville, Staunton, James Madison’s Montpelier, Natural Bridge, the Northern Neck, and re-visiting Shenandoah National Park reign at the top of my bucket list. Virginia is such a vastly gorgeous state with SO much to see, and I am excited to explore it more!

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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DC Diaries – Part 8

Life in the nation’s capital has been an adjustment in recent times. While moving is exciting when you’re in a brand-new town, it is also very very very much of a transition, too. Like many things in life, life while moving is a rollercoaster – there are several ups and downs. Through it all, I know that my move to Washington, DC is the right move for me at this time in my life.

There have been a ton of adverse affects of COVID-19 on everyone’s lives in general and those affects definitely pertain to the work life, too. It is super nice that we can all work from everywhere and anywhere. Indeed, I know so many companies that allow their employees to telework and will be moving forward. Teleworking is great and I have appreciated and reaped the benefits of it. On the same token, it is super challenging to get connected within a new city when you are working remotely and primarily so.

Personally, to say the least, I have been struggling with making connections in my new town. I think a lot of my lack of connectivity in Washington, DC has to do with the fact that I am working remotely. Despite the fact that I LOVE working remotely and really truly value the flexibility and comfort that it has offered me, I also miss seeing folks face to face and making those face to face connections. That being said, I am luckily able to go into my company’s office and will be doing so a few times a week on days when others will be in the office, too. On the same token, I feel very lucky that I have been able to make connections in a remote enivronment. Even though I may not be able to see my company’s office life pre-COVID-19, I can reap the benefits of going into the office in a fresh and new light and still make connections both virtually and in-person.

Beyond the work world, I miss getting to know others and establishing a social life. Let’s get this straight: making friends in a post-graduation world is HARD! It is such a challenge not being around folks my own age 24/7, whether it be in class, extracurricular activity, or a social event through school. Needless to say, I have spent a lot more time alone than I have in the past. Yet, I am not upset about it. I am using this time to simply focus on myself and figure out what comes next in my social world and where I want to connect with others. I am strategizing ways to connect beyond the working world too and I have some thoughts in mind that I am striving to connect through. Not knowing is hard for us all. And guess what?! That is OKAY!

Through it all, life in the nation’s capital has been a bit of a struggle. I am definitely not in the happiest part of the post-graduation transition. But, I also think it’s important to be honest with myself and others in that I am not perfect and my life is not perfect 24/7. In fact, NO ONE’S is! At the same time, like everything, things will and they do get better. I am striving to connect more inside and outside of work and my work put in to maintain connections with others WILL pay off!

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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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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