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2023 Gift Guide For Her

Now that it is the end of October, it is almost officially time to begin the holiday shopping season. I have already gotten my holiday shopping underway, but I am so excited to get the ball rolling on my gift guides for 2023.

We’re starting off strong with sharing my list of gifts for her. I included some items that are both higher and lower end; all of which will be well loved and used for years to come. These are all great ideas for your mom, wife, partner, friend, mother in law, cousin and sister. So, here are my top picks for gifts for her:

1. Touchland Hand Sanitizer: This is probably the most useful item on the list, as everyone can use hand sanitizer during the fall and winter season. I love this brand of sanitizer, because you can spray it and there is very little residue. It also lasts for a while, which is something that I always love with sanitizer as well.

2. Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag: This is my favorite bag to use of all time, because it’s perfect for a gal on the go. It’s a great bag to use for the gym, for errands, and for travel. What I like about this bag is that it comes in three different sizes, and a huge range of colors, so you truly find something for everyone on your list.

3. JoJo Loves You Earrings: I’ve started giving these as gifts in the last year, and these were even the jewelry that I gave to all my bridesmaids when I got married. These earrings are by far the most loved things that I’ve given anyone, and they are so affordable. They are less than $30, are crystal with a sterling silver base, and there are a ton of colors to choose from.

4. Riley Convertible Crossbody: Another great gift, simply because it’s so versatile. It’s a bag that can convert into a crossbody, but also can serve as a wristlet. What I love about this bag is that it comes in so many different colors, and that it has card slots, so you can easily use this as a wallet as well.

5. Aerie Sweater: I love Aerie, and I especially love their cozy sweaters. I have been buying these for a few years now, and they truly last. What I love about them is that they are reasonably priced for the quality, which is something that I highly recommend.

6. Coach Swinger Bag: Coach has definitely made a comeback, and this bag is one of the best ones to give. I love this bag because you can wear it as a shoulder bag, and as a crossbody. What I also love about this bag is that you also can interchange it with other straps, and chains as well.

7. Ugg Slippers: Ugg slippers are the best. There are so many different versions, and they are comfy and great quality.

8. The Bar Sweatshirt: Going on with the loungewear theme, this sweatshirt is so incredibly comfortable. I love wearing this when I go to my workouts, and it’s something that I just grab and go with on the daily. Of course, this is viral, but it’s something that I think you can get, it’s something that will be well loved.

9. Coach Tabby Bag: Going on with the Coach bag trend, this bag is one of the most popular and one of the most classic and practical styles. This bag comes in a ton of different styles, and different colors, so truly there’s something for everyone.

10. Standard Baggu Reusable Bag: These bags are just so convient, because they fold up so small, and fit into your bag. No more worrying whether or not you remembered your bags at the grocery store, because it’s already in your purse. They are adorable, and they come in so many different patterns. They have a few different sizes, but the standard one is perfect for anyone as a starter piece.

11. Lululemon Dual Pouch Wristlet: This is another favorite of mine, because it fits my car remote and my cards. This is the perfect grab and go piece, and I highly recommend it for anyone on your list.

12. Tree Hut Scrubs: This is one of my favorite bath products, because it makes my skin smell so nice. Since it comes in so many different scents, there is truly something for everyone.

13. Teleties Clips/hair bands: These are by far my favorite hair clips for a number of reasons. The first is the comfortability, as they are curved so they fit your head. The second is the strength of the hair clip, as it keeps all of my hair in place during a workout. And, finally, these clips are so durable it’s not even funny. They make a great gift or a great stocking stuffer for anyone on your list.

14. T. Jazelle Bracelets: I love T. Jazelle bracelets, and I have been wearing them for years. What I love about the brand is that it truly has something for any style. There are so many gemstones and charms, so people can truly stack their story.

15. Massage Gun from Amazon: As I get older, I get more back pain. I love this guy, because it helps with all my aches and pains, and I can’t help but think that this will be an amazing gift.

What’s In My Bag Wednesday: Telfar Mini Shopper Tote

The Telfar tote bag is an affordable, yet exclusive bag that takes a side of luck in order to snag one. I recently added a small shopper tote to my collection, and I am so happy that I was able to grab one. Over this past weekend, I took the bag out for the first time. I was pleasantly surprised on how much this tiny bag will fit. Now, I’m not saying that you will be able to fit everything bit the kitchen sink, but I am saying that it will fit more than a few things.

I really like the simplicity of this bag so far, and I am sure that this will become a new daily bag. I have been lucky to get it in a few colors, and I am so happy that I did. They are so fun to add to my collection.

Here is what I was able to fit in mine:

1. Louis Vuitton Key Pouch with my car key fob

2. Touch land Hand Sanitzer

3. Summer Fridays Lip Balm

4. Iphone 14 pro (not pictured).

5. Hand lotion

I still had room in mine but I was able to get everything I needed in and out comfortably.

5 Books That I’ve Given 5 Stars To

Five stars on Goodreads is a huge accomplishment, and means that a book is something that is mind blowing. For me, a book that gets five stars is a book that I either can’t put down, get emotionally invested in, or just get sucked in the world of the book.

Throughout my 20-odd years as a reader, I’ve encountered so many books that I loved all over the years. These are only five books that I’ve given five stars too, but they all are definitely worth the read.

1. Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan: Before I Let Go was my first and only Kennedy Ryan book that I have read as of late, and I was obsessed with this book from the moment I read the first line to the last line. After the loss of a baby, Yasmen and Josiah amicably divorce. However, the two of them still remain on good terms — to the point where sparks fly. I loved every moment of this book, and everything about it. I definitely want to read more Kennedy Ryan’s books, but need to make sure that my calendar is clear.

2. Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid: Out of all the books by TJR, this one is my favorite book by her. I loved the characters, the way that the story was reading, and I loved the TV show.

3. Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin: Something Borrowed was one of my first “adult” books that I’ve read. I remember just being sucked into this world. This book tells the story of best friends Rachel and Darcy. Rachel has always had to step aside so that her best friend could be the star of the shoe. So, when Darcy’s fiancé kisses Rachel one night, Rachel is conflicted with the line of right and wrong.

4. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah: This tells the story of sisters, Vianne and Isabel. Both live in France, and a German captain soon takes over Vianne’s home. Both sisters, whether on the front lines or home front have a crucial part in the war, and this one is definitely worth the read.

5. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus: This novel takes place in the 1950s, and tells the story of Ms. Elizabeth Zott, a chemist who has a TV show. This novel was both entertaining and thought-provoking, as it exposes many of the attitudes towards women in STEM in that time frame.

What are some of your five star reads?

Glow Wild Creates a Magical Experience

The Beardsley Zoo’s Glow Wild has returned to Bridgeport for its second year. From now until December 2nd, visitors can enjoy this magical experience, which includes exhibits of beautifully lit lanterns, and peaceful music playing in the background — all of which creating a peaceful ambiance.

The festival runs weekly from Thursday to Sunday from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. This event is something that I truly think is worth the $22 price tag for adults. There were displays of gorgeous flowers, animals, and more, all created by the event’s sponsors. Basically, attendees are invited to walk through it, and enjoy it. Many of the exhibits had moving parts, which is something that I thought was amazing.

My husband and I visited the zoo last night for a date, and were in awe with the whole experience. It was just magical, as the zoo was lit up from the parking lot and all throughout. This is an event I know that we will be returning to for years to come. To purchase tickets, please check out their website here.

Be sure to scroll below to see my pictures from the event:

Sunday Inspiration: October 22, 2023

Sunday funday is here, and I am so excited to share some of the things that have inspired me over this past week. Some of these are basic stuff, but I still wanted to take the time to share them (and hopefully use them to inspire you too).

1. My Spin Instructor: For her privacy, I am going to not share her name. However, I am now taking spin classes, and I am obsessed. What I like about her classes is that they inspire me to push myself and give me some great music recommendations.

2. YouTube: As many of you now, we are venturing towards the end of Blogtober. One of the pitfalls of Blogtober is without a doubt trying to come up with some great post ideas that are actually interesting to read. Some of my favorites include Maggychu, Michele Vidal, and a lot of booktube, because your girl loves to read.

What inspired you this week?

Bags That Have Been On Repeat Lately

Handbags are definitely my vice. I change mine out frequently, and I really enjoy my handbag collection. I do plan to do a handbag purge on my Poshmark soon, but in the mean time, I wanted to share some of the bags that I’ve been carrying on repeat.

1. Coachtopia Ergo Large Bag In Black: I am obsessed with this bag, and this is the bag that I’ve been carrying on repeat for the last few weeks. It fits everything that I need, and it looks amazing.

2. Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag: This is one of my favorites, if not my favorite, grab and go bag. I use this all of the time when going to the gym, as it fits everything that I need and more. I also use this bag when running errands, and it’s so secure. I can not recommend this bag enough.

3. Coach Luna: I got this bag when it was on sale, and it is no longer sold on the Coach website (they replaced it when the Mira bag, which has a crossbody strap and chain). However, I really love this one. When I was on vacation last month, I used it regularly. Furthermore, I wore it when I went to a baby shower. I love this bag because it has just the right mixture of formal and casual, so you can wear it in multiple ways. Low cost per wear? Something that we love around here.

What are some bags that you’ve had on repeat?

Friday Faves: October 20, 2023

TGIF everyone! The air is just a tiny bit chillier and now the fall season is among us here in Connecticut. I am ready for the chilly weather, even though I’ve been procrastinating changing my closet over to more winter attire.

That said, I wanted to share some of my favorites this week. I can’t believe that I have ten posts left to complete Blogtober, but here we are. Somehow I’ve been able to not run out of ideas for posts, which is always a blessing if you ask me.

1. July Rose Milagro Fish Necklace: I ordered this necklace in the summer and it finally came in last week. I got the silver one, and I’m obsessed. A milagro necklace is basically like a good luck charm, which is something that I think we all need. What is so cool about July Rose pieces is that all of the pieces are made to order, which is why they take a while to get. I am so happy with this piece. It also comes in gold, but I am definitely a silver girly.

2. Kardashians: I discovered this show while I was sick, and I’ve been really enjoying this so far.

3. Honora Pearl Necklace: I ordered this off of QVC last week, and I’m really happy to have a simple and high quality pearl necklace in my collection. I can see myself using this for both casual and formal wear.

4. Old Navy Stevie Pants: There is nothing like a pair of comfy pants that you can wear to work. I got these when I got Old Navy Super Cash, which of course is a dangerous thing. These felt like wearing a pair of leggings, and they weren’t a bad price.

5. Pumpkin Spice Graham Goldfish: Dunkin Donuts Pumpkin Spice mixed with Goldfish = a delicious snack that I can’t get enough of.

October Amazon Faves

Thanks to Prime Day and the need for some essentials, I’ve been turning to Amazon to pick up my essentials. Some of these are basic ones, while others are just fun little purchases that have elevated my daily life.

So without further a due, here are my October Amazon Favorites:

1. Pens: I am such a stationary snob. I got these pens at work, and loved the way that they wrote so much that I decided to get them from Amazon. These write so well, and I highly recommend them.

2. Scalp Massager: I’ve been using this before washing my hair, and I really love how it feels. I also love how it will help stimulate hair growth. That said, results are still yet to be seen, as I’ve only used it twice.

3. Grogu Weighted Plush: One of the best things about Amazon is that many of the popular brands are available, including Disney. I love my Grogu weighted plush, as it helps me have a deeper sleep, and allows me to relax. As someone who deals with anxiety, this is crucial. Plus, we all know how much I love Grogu.

4. Comb: I was influenced by Alexa LeConche on Instagram to buy this, and this is the perfect comb to just stick in your purse, whether you’re going to work or the gym. I love how slim it is, and since it comes in a pack of two, it makes it easier to just leave it in my bag and not have to worry about trying to find a comb.

5. Notebook: I do a lot of journaling, and I love Moleskins. However, I do not love the price of said Moleskins. Enter this Moleskin dupes, which is a third of the price of them, but is excellent quality. I have the eggshell green one currently, but I will be purchasing more in the future.

What’s In My Bag: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1L

The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is a staple in my wardrobe, and is easily one of the most functional items that I own. I have it in multiple colors, all three sizes, and often stalk the website for new releases when they occur. This bag is my go-to for almost anything, from when I go to the gym, when I go for a walk with my husband, and when I run various errands where I want to have my items close by.

This is not the first time I’ve mentioned the Everywhere Belt Bag on my blog. About a year ago, I wrote a review on the bag, and you can see what fits in it. That said, I wanted to share what I carry in the bag nowadays. For context, this is the Gray Sage Color, and I used this bag all throughout the weekend from errands to my spin class.

Here’s what’s in my bag:

Black Lululemon True Identity Card Case
iPhone 14 Pro
Hand sanitizer
Hand Lotion
Summer Fridays Lip Balm
Pantyliners
Car Keys
Comb
Standard Baggu Reusable Tote Bag

Scarecrow Fest Once Again Returns To Milford

Spooky season is here, and the Downtown Milford area is in the Halloween spirit with its third annual Scarecrow Fest, an event that is hosted by the Downtown Milford Business Association. This is the third year that the festival has been held (check out these posts about 2021‘s and 2022‘s), and this year is no exception to the creativity.

According to an article on the Milford-Orange Mirror entitled DMBA to Host Scarecrow Fest, the festival allows “families, Milford-based businesses, organizations and clubs” to “build their own unique scarecrows for display.” The scarecrows are built by using kits that are available by the Downtown Milford Business Association. One of my favorite parts about writing this post each year is hearing the stories behind the scarecrows, and they truly bring a sense of community.

This year’s scarecrows were a mixture of classic spooky icons, creativity, and appearance from this year’s most popular characters, i.e. Bluey and Barbie.

The scarecrows will hanging out in the Downtown Milford area throughout the month of October, so I recommend taking a walk to check them out. However, I do invite you to check out these photos of the scarecrows in the interium: