TGIF! Springtime is here, and the temperatures are rising here in Connecticut. This weekend is going to be a busy one, and I am just ready to enjoy the nice weather. That being said, I do want to take a moment to share some of this week’s favorites:
1. TJazelle Necklaces: I have been loving these necklaces as of late. I have the evil eye, the you are beautiful, and the stepping stones one. I love these necklaces, because they are adjustable up to 24 inches, so that they could be literally any length for your neck stack.
2. TJazelle Evil Eye Help Bracelet:I love the evil eye, can’t you tell? I love this bracelet because it definitely elevates any stack and the blue color is perfect for spring.
3. One in a Millennial by Kate Kennedy: This book is nostalgia central. I have been listening to this one, and it’s been so entertaining. It’s a commentary on the 90s, 2000s, and 2010s culture, and I’ve been enjoying it every minute. Listening to this has been just like stepping into a Time Machine. I definitely recommend this one if you’re looking for something fun to read.
4. Jen and Co Chloe Bag: I finally broke out this crossbody bag, and I am so, so happy that I did. This bag is a classic and comfortable style. It has a guitar strap so it elevates it. It also fits everything that I can possibly need, and more. Finally, it also is just so comfortable to wear. I’ve been wearing it crossbody, and I can already see that it’s going to be a staple in my wardrobe.
This pattern has come to me by a complete accident. My coworker had asked me to crochet her a pair of wristbands, but then I got the idea to also add leg warmers. These came out so well, and I decided to write the pattern.
The pattern is something that I love, because it’s something that is quick and easy. A beginner can make this as well, and while it’s great for an 80’s costume, it’s going to be something that I can see myself using whenever I go for a walk on a chilly day.
For this, you’ll need worsted weight yarn and a 5 mm crochet hook.
Here’s how you make these:
Chain 46.
Row 1: In the third chain and the remainder of the chains, double crochet.
Rows 2-12: Double Crochet in back loop only.
That said, this pattern is 100 percent adjustable. You can make them thicker or wider, so it could fit you perfectly. It does work up quickly, and takes about 2 hours to make — making the perfect pattern for beginners.
Two books. Over 1,300 pages. One very large, intimidating read.
One of the most controversial parts about the Throne of Glass series is not the content, but the reading order. There are a ton of different ways that you can read the series, such as the romance and the publishing order.
However, when it comes to reading the fifth and sixth ones, there’s a new way that everyone suggests reading — the TANDEM read. Basically, it’s when you read both Empire of Storms and Tower of Dawn at the same time by flipping back and forth between the two. There is a little guide online that I used, which was so helpful. I am not going to give a summary of the two, because I don’t want to spoil the Throne of Glass series for those who haven’t read it.
Now, what is the logic of this insanity?
The logic is to be able to jump right into Kingdom of Ash without having to go back to Tower of Dawn, because the way that Empire of Storms ends on such a cliff hanger that you’re not going to want to go back and read Tower of Dawn. You’re going to want to dive right into Kingdom of Ash. However, you’d have to go back to the events in Tower of Dawn, and all you’re going to want to do is read Kingdom of Ash.
As someone who just finished the TADEM read, I am so happy that I did it that way. At the time, I questioned my sanity, but it was worth every second.
Many people question whether or not flipping between the two books is confusing. It is not. Basically, Empire of Storms follows the majority of the Throne of Glass cast while Tower of Dawn just follows one character and his journey. What a lot of people do not realize is that both books take place at the same time. Therefore, one doesn’t spoil the other in any way. And, by following a reading guide like I did, it paces it just right.
Doing the TANDEM read was definitely a challenge. For one thing, it was challenging just carrying the two books. To read both books, it took a grand total of two weeks. That being said, the books were slow for a while. However, in true Sarah J. Maas fashion, the last 200 pages dropped major bombs, and left me drained of all emotion.
That being said, there were times that I wish that I could have stayed in one longer and dreaded flipping, especially when the plot started to get more and more intense. However, that being said, the books were amazing.
Now, if you’re considering the TANDEM read for yourself, there are a few things that you can do to get through it.
The first thing that I thought was the most helpful was tabbing the books so I knew the exact moment when I would need to switch novels. I found that so helpful, because I didn’t have to worry about carrying the checklist around.
The second I would say is to just read as much as or as little as you feel like during one reading session. It’s going to be a long commitment, so you shouldn’t have to force yourself to read.
Overall, I’m happy that I decided to do the TANDEM read versus reading them individually, and highly recommend doing the same if you’re reading the series. By doing so, you become so attached to the characters and dread when the end is coming.
Wow, it’s been a while since I’ve sat down and written a Friday Faves post. I’m so happy to be writing this, as Friday Faves is definitely one of my favorite posts to write.
As we head into the spring season, I’m excited to be sharing new things are a part of this for the blog. So, without further adue, here are this week’s Friday Faves:
Kate Spade AB Crystal Earrings: These earrings have been on repeat since I purchased them. I love these earrings, because they go with pretty much everything, and they are classic.
Love Is Blind: Everyone is on season six of this show. Meanwhile, I’m still behind on season three. I decided that now is the perfect time to catch up on it, and have been binging the show.
Dr. Teal’s Sleep Spray: I’ve been having a lot of trouble sleeping in terms of getting good quality sleep. I tried this, and so far, it has been working really well. There are many different options in terms of spraying this, but the two that I used were on myself and on my pillow. I also really like that this spray has melatonin, but doesn’t allow you to ingest it. I definitely recommend it.
I love walking in all four seasons. Unfortunately the downside of doing so, especially when you have all four seasons like in Connecticut, is that the weather can be a little chilly when walking in the winter months. Enter in the need for wristbands. They will keep you warm. They will also be a great thing to make if you’re going to be a workout girl for Halloween or if you’re going the 80s route…
What’s nice about crochet wristbands is that you can easily whip these up with some spare yarn you have in your collection with leftover yarn from other projects. These take about a half of an hour to make per wristband, and are so beginner friendly.
Here’s what you need:
Worst weight/4 yarn
Size H/5.00 MM needle
Needle
The pattern itself:
Row 1: Chain 11
Row 2: Double crochet in third chain, and the remainder of the row.
Rows 3-15: Chain two, and double crochet in back loop only.
This pattern is adjustable in sizing, so feel free to adjust this to make as big or little as you need.
Once the wristband is at the length that you wish, slip stitch the two ends together. Weave in ends, and then you’re done!
Today is a special edition of my monthly favorites, as it’s a Leap Day! I think that’s an awesome way to wrap up the month if you ask me.
That being said, my goal as we head into the spring and summer months is to continue to blog more frequently. I’m working on coming up with more ideas for content, both on the blog and on my Instagram (be sure to follow me there at @thenutmegmillennial).
However, let’s get into the favorites during the month of February:
Throne of Glass Series: I started this series back in 2015 when I was in college and the first novel in this series was actually an assignment. I loved the book, so I started reading the others. Back then, I wasn’t as into fantasy as I am now, so needless to say, I stopped reading it after the fourth. I meant to get back into it, but didn’t . However, I started rereading the series late last year, and became obsessed after Crown of Midnight. I’m currently doing the TANDEM read and I’m hoping that I wrap this series up in March.
Thrifting: One of my favorite things to do as of late is to go thrifting. I blame the many TikToks that I’m obsessively watching. My favorite thing by far is to thrift is vintage Coach handbags. It is truly like a treasure hunt, and I hope to do more thrifting throughout the month of March.
Free People Quilted Carryall: Free People is one of those brands I love, but I will never pay full price for. I get a majority of my Free People on sale at TJ Maxx. However, I purchased this carryall bag for work earlier in the month, and I’m obsessed with it. It’s a great bag to fit everything you may need. The only thing that I do not like is the fact that it can get super heavy really easily and stuff sometimes gets lost in the bag. However, I still love it, because I can see so many uses for it in the spring and summer months.
Lattes, freshly baked cookies and muffins, and sizzling hot burgers are entirely different things that span two entirely different meals. However, you can get all three — and more — at Wallingford’s Bee’s Knees Bistro.
Located in the center of Wallingford, Bee’s Knees Bistro is open daily until 3 p.m. The cafe is new to the Wallingford area, but it’s buzzing with the honeycomb theme, and is a delicious and tasty place to bee (last bee pun, I swear). It is beyond adorable. Throughout the cafe, there’s little touches of bees/honey, but not in a way that is overwhelming or cheesy, between the decor and the names of the food.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff — the food. Since it’s a breakfast and lunch spot, Bee’s Knees Bistro has a menu that consists of breakfast and lunch choices from sandwiches to pancakes.
Breakfast choices range from sweet to savory options. These include: pancakes with the options to add blueberries, and Nutella; sweet and savory toast options, as well as endless bread options.
For lunch, there are choices of both salads and sandwiches. And there is something that is truly for everyone. You can create your own deli sandwich, a burger, and more. They offer the option to have your sandwich with a side of macaroni salad, but can upgrade to fries or sweet potato fries.
And of course, there are specials. These even include coffee, lattes,and more. At the Bee’s Knees Bistro, there is a chalk board that lists out specials. When I went earlier this week, some of the specials that were featured included salted maple latte, honey nut latte, honey lavender latte, and more. And, the specials do not exclude food. Some of the food specials include their crescents, scones, and muffins.
Between the casual atmosphere and the delicious food, it is the perfect spot for you to check out for brunch, breakfast, or lunch — whether you’re on a lunch date with your significant other or just catching up with a friend. Or, if you’re just looking for a place to cozy up with a latte and a good book, Bee’s Knees Bistro is a great option as well.
Treasures are easy to find at the Rock Garden in Branford. Whether you are a jewelry lover, jewelry creator, or enjoy the metaphysical elements, the Rock Garden is your oasis. Located on South Main Street in Branford, it is the place to go to if you love jewelry or making it.
When walking in, you are greeted with a case of gorgeous pendants and rings of various crystals and price points on one side. On the other side, there are shelves of various cards, and essential oils for whatever purpose you wish it to serve. As you journey deeper into the store, there are shelves upon shelves of crystals to choose from.
However, if DIY is more your vibe, there are thousands of different and gorgeous beads and findings to choose from, such as brass and silver plate to sterling silver to gold fill. What’s nice about purchasing beads from the Rock Garden is that the beads and materials vary in terms of price to satisfy every budget. Beads can range from less than $10 a strand to over $100. However, the quality of the beads, even on the lower end, are still really great.
As someone who makes jewelry as a hobby, one thing I will say is that the prices are very reasonable for what you get. For example, the price for a foot of sterling silver chain is $4.95 a foot, making the price for an 18 inch chain without findings about $6. Add in some crystal beads, eye pins, and a clasp, the necklace itself will cost you less than $20 to make. This makes it easier than ever to create a piece that is unique and totally customized to your taste at an assessable price, especially as they can go between $30 to $40.
One thing I really appreciate about the Rock Garden is the service. Every time I go there, whether it’s for beads or just for jewelry, the staff is always so helpful and patient. Furthermore, they are so knowledgeable when it comes to having questions about beads as well, which I really like. Sometimes it can be intimidating to have questions, and they are very approachable.
However, the Rock Garden sells way more than just jewelry. As mentioned earlier, they have a ton of crystals and other unique items such as dream catchers, and essential oils — just to name a few.
And while the Rock Garden has an online shop, I highly recommend making the trip there if possible. It is one of those places that is just so fun to walk around, and when you leave, you just feel good on the inside. It is definitely a place that I enjoy visiting for many reasons, but one of the main ones is that it allows me to embrace my creative side, which has been a goal of mine in 2024.
And, as there’s so many DIY TikToks that show people making their own jewelry, it is nice to have something like that in our very own Nutmeg state.
Back in middle school, if you carried a Coach bag to class, you knew that you were golden. Nowadays, Coach has come back in a major way with the Tabby and the surplus of Coach Outlet content on TikTok. Now, those bags that I mentioned earlier from 2007? Well, they too are coming back in a major way, especially since Coach has done so many different reissue bags in the last few years. But, there is something that is amazing about the original.
To find these bags, it is a treasure hunt. Nowadays, the true vintage Coach bags that are in immaculate condition are priced the same as the new, which can be found both on eBay and Poshmark. If you want to pay that price for a vintage bad, I say go for it. But, you can go down a TikTok rabbit hole of watching people find them at local thrift and consignment stores.
Which is where I found mine.
I currently have about 7 vintage bags in my collection. I have the Coach legacy bag in the large and small size, the Coach legacy crossbody in the shoulder bag, the Coach soho in brown and black, and two hobo bags. I love these bags, because the quality is truly impeccable. I’ve worn them with all of my outfits that I normally wear, and they truly are classic pieces. And, many of these pieces were $100 or less.
Honestly, I hope to add a few more whenever I find them. I’ve purchased mine from places such as Thredup and Poshmark, as well as my local consignment store. And, let me tell you — it’s like a treasure hunt to find these bags if I’m being honest. However, I’ve got some tips that I’ve used to score a great deal on them, and for your middle school self to be jealous.
1. Accept that there is a hunt for these pieces: You’re going to have to dig to find the treasure, folks. That means having patience. That means scrolling through a lot of things on Poshmark to find the things that you desire. That means frequently running to your local consignment stores, because their inventory constantly changes. It might take time to find these pieces, but the hunt is worth it.
2. Change Search Items: The best way to score a deal on Poshmark is to find someone who doesn’t know what a treasure to have. This goes for everything. Therefore, search with terms such as “coach bag,” “coach hobo bag,” or even “coach shoulder bag,” there’s a good chance for a deal.
3. Get a bag in worse condition: Another tip that I have is to get a bag that looks like it has seen better days. Those are marked down extensively, just because people are trying to get rid of it. So, grab it, and use it as a chance to restore the bag. The investment of things like leather conditioner and saddle soap are small, but can make your bag sparkle. That being said, be sure to research how to do it before you start.
4. Ask family members: My mother had a huge collection of vintage Coach bags, and honestly, they look as good as when she carried them in the 2000s. I love them, because they are my mom’s, but they also are bags that look good. So, raid your mom’s, grandma’s collection of bags and see what they have. Chances are, they would let you borrow it or even have it if it’s been sitting in your closet.
It is the first day of February, so that means it’s time to reflect on my favorites for the month of January. And, there are a few different ones that I want to share. Some of them are fashion, while others are more lifestyle favorites.
That being said, I am still so excited to share this month’s favorites:
1. Moonglow Jewelry:My friend gave me one of their necklaces as a Christmas present, and I will say that it has become a regular in my rotation of necklaces. I wear it on its own, and I wear it layered. What I love about this piece is the meaning behind it. For those of you who don’t know, Moonglow jewelry is a piece of jewelry that has a moon from a special date in life. Think birthdays, anniversaries, etc. I definitely am loving this piece, and I can see myself wearing this for many years.
2. Binding 13 and Keeping 13 by Chloe Walsh: These books were such a slow burn, and the fact that they were over 600 pages made them drag. I loved the second one way more than the first. That said, these books are about Johnny, a rugby star, and Shannon, the new girl at school. They have a connection that was undeniable. And, I loved it. The first was such a struggle to get through, but the second one was absolutely amazing.
3. Uniqlo Mini Shoulder Bag: This bag has become my go-to this past month. It went viral last year, and I was the last one that joined this party. What I love about the bag is that it’s a smaller version of my Baggu mini crescent, which is a bag that I loved. I love this bag for many reasons. It’s so affordable and lightweight. I mean, it’s $20. And, it fits so much. Therefore, I can’t recommend this bag enough.
4. Yearlyco Bangle: I bought this at the start of the new year, and I am obsessed. I have the white gold original one and I have not taken it off since the day that it arrived. It is so simple, and it goes with my other bracelets that I wear regularly.
5. Cerave Healing Ointment: This is one of my winter essentials, because it works so well on my skin. I get super dry skin in the winter time, and this is the only thing that completely gets rid of it.
6. Slammed Series by Colleen Hoover: I love Colleen Hoover, and this is one of the books of hers that I have yet to read. This one tells the forbidden love story of Laken, whose father passed away and she is forced to move from her hometown, and Will, who is forced to take care of his younger brother. This book was so amazing, and I absolutely loved the ending. I definitely recommend.
7. Cozy Hobby YouTube Channels: I’ve watched Booktube for a few years now, but I have now been binging some cozy hobby ones, such as crochet and journaling ones. Some of my favorites are Hooks and Heelers, Camryn’s Creations, and Creative Mind Coffee Grinds.
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