Wallingford’s Bees Knees is the Bee’s Knees for Your Next Brunch Date

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.

The Rock Garden is An Oasis For Crystal Lovers and Wearers

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.

Vintage Coach Bags Are Back: My Collection, Why They Are Worth The Search, and Tips to Get Them

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.

January 2024 Favorites

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.

What are your favorites this month?

Friday Faves: January 26, 2024

TGIF everyone! Thanks to the cold, New England weather, I’ve become a hermit these last few days. I also have been dealing with some major back pain these days.

However, I am here to discuss all of my Friday Faves from the last few weeks. I have a ton of great things to share with you, from bags to makeup. So, without further adue, here are this week’s favorites.

1. Fitkicks: My mother in law has had these forever, and I’ve always wanted them. However, what stopped me from getting them was the fact that I thought they were no longer made. Needless to say, when I discovered that they were sold on Amazon, I couldn’t click on ‘add to cart’ fast enough. So far, I really love them. The last thing that I need was another pair of slipper-like shoes, but these are worth the investment thus far.

2. Uniqlo Round Mini Shoulder Bag: This purse is $20, and honestly worth every penny. It’s like a more sophisticated version of the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag, which is another favorite of mine. I love this bag because it fits so much, and when I go to take things in and out, things don’t fall out. Furthermore, what I also love about this bag is that you can wear it in a lot more ways that you may not be able to with the belt bag. I love my Lululemon Belt Bag, but this little guy is giving it some stiff competition.

3. Glossier Bombdotcom Lip Balm: I’ve been wanting to try this one, and I have been enjoying it thus far. I have the lavender and the birthday cake, and I use both regularly. They also really help keep my lips super moisturized, which is something that I appreciate during the winter.

4. Cerave Healing Ointment: I love this hand lotion. Usually, my hands are super dry during this time of year. However, I’ve been using this one at least once a day, and have noticed a huge difference. What is also nice about this one is that it is super affordable, and can be purchased on Prime.

Kathy’s Famous Cookies: Famous for a Reason

While walking into Kathy’s Famous Cookies in Woodmont, Milford, I was greeted with the scent of freshly baked goods, and surrounded by treats on all sections of the store. The shop is tiny, but do not be fooled by the store front’s size — the cookies come with big flavor and fame.

Kathy’s Famous Cookies, according to the website, began when a mom lost her job back in 2000. She started with just cookies, but soon expanded her menu to scones, biscotti, and more. You can read more about her story here.

However, while the menu at Kathy’s has expanded over the past few decades, true to its name, the cookies are beyond delicious. The cookies are massive, and each bite is so mouthwatering. And, there is a huge selection for you to choose from. Some of the cookies include funfetti, chocolate chip, M and M, lemon sugar, and so much more. No matter what cookie I get, each cookie tastes fresh and delicious. Cookies can either be purchased as a single cookies, or you can get them packaged to either give as a gift or enjoy throughout the week.

That being said, the cookies aren’t the only delicious items on the menu. No matter what item you get from Kathy’s — whether it’s to start your day with a muffin or scone or to end it with a sweet treat like a cupcake or a Rice Krispie treat. My personal favorite is the biscotti, especially the caramel one.

My mouth is watering just when I think about it.

Of course, we can’t forget about your furry friend. Kathy’s offers peanut butter treats that your pup will devour.

What’s nice about Kathy’s Famous Cookies is that they also offer affordable treats for events and parties. You can get your choice of cookie, as well as add ons. You can also choose whatever color ribbon you may like as well. Furthermore, if you need a tray on the spot, the staff will kindly work with you to create a tray to suit your needs. And, in addition, they also offer cookie cakes to order as well.

And while you can get her treats by visiting her Woodmont location, her treats are sold at grocery stores throughout the state. You can view the list of stores and shops here.

Overall, these cookies have become a staple not only in the Milford community, but in Connecticut, and definitely a place worth checking out.

Friday Faves: January 12, 2024

TGIF everyone! I am finally getting back into the swing of blogging regularly again. Thank goodness. I am hopeful that means I’ll be back to posting content regularly. That said, I wanted to share my list of favorites this week:

1. Poppi Soda: I discovered Poppi soda for the first time, and I’m loving it. It’s healthier than regular soda, and as someone who doesn’t drink, it’s nice to have a fun drink every once in a while.

2. Once More With Feeling by Elissa Sussman: I finished the latter 2/3s of this book in one sitting. Yes. That’s how you can tell that this book was in fact a good one. This book, like her other, tells a story in a now/then format, and I love it. This one is about Kathleen Rosenberg, aka former pop star Kate Rosee, whose career was over after a scandal. Years later, she is the leading lady of a musical that her best friend wrote for her. I loved this book, and I highly recommend it.

3. Kirkland Caramel S’mores Clusters: I got these a few weeks ago, and these are so addicting, and delicious. They make the perfect midday treat.

4. Scout Wrap Bracelets: I have been incorporating these in my stack lately, and I’ve been obsessed with them. They stack great with my other bracelets, and they are so comfortable to wear. There is a few gemstone beads, and you can wear it as either a bracelet and a necklace, so the combinations are endless. They are also perfect for Valentine’s Day gifts.

Flipping Through My 2024 Reading Journal

2024 is pretty much going to be my journaling year. In late 2023, I got into memory/junk journaling, and I have been keeping a journal regularly for years. I have not been the best at keeping a bullet journal. I’ve started them, only to abandon them when life got crazy.

This year, I decided to start a reading journal. I am not the most artistically inclined or gifted, so the layouts are pretty simple. However, that being said, I wanted to share my pages for 2024, and my layout for January 2024.

The journal that I decided to use is the Leuchtturm1917 Bullet Journal Bullet Journal. I love this one because the pages are super thick, and the fact that this journal is made for bullet journaling.

2024 Layout:

These are my layout pages for this year. These include my reading goals, and books that I want to read this year.

Series Tracker:

This one is pretty bare bones simple, but has a full list of all the series that I want to get to. Not sure if I’ll read all of the books this year, but I love that they are all in one place.

January 2024 Pages:

Some of my pages for the first month of the year include: a list of the books on my TBR, books that I read throughout the month, books that are coming out in January, and a page for each book that I read.

Friday Faves: January 5, 2024

It is the first week of the new year, and I am finally getting back into the swing of blogging. I have a few favorites that I am so excited to share with you. I am also so happy to be getting back into blogging regularly, because it has been a while.

That said, here are my favorites of the week:

1. Yours Truly by Abby Jiminez: I am flying through this one. I can’t put it down, and I know that when I’m done with this one, I am going to be going through major withdrawals. I also can say that this is probably going to be my first five-star read of the year, and I can’t recommend them enough.

2. Coach Soft Tabby: I am late to the Tabby train, and that’s perfectly okay because I am here now. I am loving this bag so much. It’s comfortable and easy to use. It also goes with everything, and has the quality that Coach is known for. I love this bag, and it is definitely worth the money.

3. N Initial Necklace: My husband purchased this necklace for me for Christmas, and I am obsessed with it. It is the perfect piece. I have and love the Anthropologie version one. However, this one is solid sterling silver, which means I can wear it just a little more carelessly. I’ve purchased from this brand in the past, and I am really pleased with every piece that I’ve bought from them.

What are your favorites in the new year?

Best Purchases of 2023

Happy New Year, all. This is a very belated post, but I wanted to take the time to share some of the best purchases that I’ve made in 2023. Some of these are electronics, others are jewelry pieces that have been worn on repeat. So without further adue, here are my favorite and best purchases of 2023:

1. Kindle Paperwhite: I give this little device all of the credit as to why I was able to read 143 books in 2023. Because of its size, I am able to fit it in my purse. I read on the train. I read in the pool since it is waterproof. I read on the treadmill. I read almost anywhere. Furthermore, I also have Kindle Unlimited, which allows me to try reading different types of books that I am obsessed with. By having that access, it is definitely easier than ever before to get access to more books, and get to actually reading them.

2. Kindle Scribe: Pegging off of the first one, the second best purchase is the Kindle Scribe. I loved this thing. I originally purchased it so I can journal and read. However, I just fell in love with the large screen. It is almost one year to the day that I purchased this one, and I can say that it was 100 percent worth the money.

3. Nuskin Lumi: I love, love, love my Lumi. Sure, she’s an investment. However, I am seeing so much more improvement in my skin that it isn’t even funny. My skin is practically glowing. Each treatment is about 2 minutes, and the lotions that go with it are excellent for my skin. I highly recommend it.

4. Summer Fridays Lip Balm: This lip balm went viral in 2023, and for good reason. Out of all of the lip glosses and balms that I own, this is one of my favorites. I love the taste and how they leave my lips feeling oh so moisturized. 10/10.

5. HP Sprocket: 2023 is the year that I really got into journaling, and this printer has been so helpful for doing so. It makes it easier than ever to print and stick your photos onto the page. I can’t wait to continue using it in 2024.

6. Baggu Medium Crescent Bag: Next, we’re going to talk about my favorite bag of the year. The medium crescent bag by Baggu. I love Baggu. This bag is so comfortable. It fits everything. The quality is amazing. I can’t say enough good things about it, and highly recommend it.

7. Jen and Co Riley Bag: Last but certainly not least, we’re going to talk about a bag that I not only loved for myself to add to my large bag collection, but a bag that I loved giving. The Riley bag from Jen and Co is by far one of my favorites of the year. What I love about the bag is that it can be used as both a crossbody and wristlet. This means maximum versatility. I have also given this guy as a gift to all four of my bridesmaids, as well as my mother in law. The price point on this is amazing, coming in at $34. The bag is made out of vegan leather, and I can’t say enough good things about it.