Friday Faves: March 14, 2025

TGIF! I am so happy to report that the weekend is near, and I have no plans pretty much. I have not done a Friday Faves during the month of February, so I am so happy to return to doing so. I have so much fun sharing my favorites, so let’s chat about them!

Practice Makes Perfect by Sarah Adams: I think I’m officially a Sarah Adams girly. This is the third book that I’ve read by the author and I’m obsessed. I have a few more before I officially read all of the viral books. This one is about awkward wallflower Annie, who is trying to practice dating. The bodyguard of her future sister in law is up for the job. I’m almost all the way through this one and let me tell you, I am obsessed with this book. I loved the growth of the characters, the way that they fell in love, and the romance.

Honey Roasted Peanut Butter: Whole Foods has this peanut butter and I’ve been enjoying this along with some toast. It has some crunch, but it tastes so delicious.

Song of Archilles by Madeline Miller: I devoured this on my way to the City this past weekend, and I am so happy that I read that. This is the retelling of the Greek myth Archilles, and I absolutely loved her spin on the tale — so much to the point where I had to run home and finish the last few pages.

Kraft No Cheese Mac and Cheese: Kraft Mac and Cheese was something that I loved as a kid, and something that was super hard to let go of when I discovered that I was lactose intolerant. I tried this last week, and it was so good that I ordered two more boxes on Amazon. It was amazing! I’m sure I’ll be regularly ordering these, and I highly recommend them if you’re on the dairy free life like I am.

Enewton Small Locket: I had picked this up when I was in the City, and I’m so glad that I did. It is a gorgeous, gorgeous piece. I love lockets, and I am even thinking about adding a photo into it. Plus you know that eNewton has the best quality.

Pavoi Tennis Bracelet: This has been my emotional support bracelet in all of my stacks as of late. I’m a huge fan of Pavoi, and I am so happy that I was able to pick this one up! It goes with bangles, it goes with other beaded bracelets, and it’s amazing. I 10/10 recommend.

Is Pavoi Jewelry Worth It?

Pavoi has shown up on any Amazon favorites that an influencer shares. And, with prices ranging from $12.99 to $20, Pavoi Jewelry makes high quality jewelry accessible to all. There are options for gold, white gold, and rose gold. With that being said, is that jewelry truly worth it? And also what is the quality like?

I think that there is something that we need to get out of the way here. Pavoi is not a luxury brand. We are not getting precious metals such as gold and platinum. These are plated pieces. They are not going to be in your jewelry box forever. Going into buying a Pavoi piece with these expectations definitely is something that I want to iterate over and over again.

That being said, I do think that the quality of the brand is excellent for the price. I own several pieces from the brand, rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. All of the pieces are gold plated, meaning that there is a base metal that is coated with a layer of gold on top of it. Many of my pieces are stamped 925, which means that they are sterling silver based.

With plated jewelry, there is a tiny bit of delicacy that comes with them. Be sure to take them off when you shower, work out, put on lotion or perfume, and swimming.

However, my experience with Pavoi has been great thus far. I am a very sensitive girly when it comes to my jewelry. My fingers and body will turn green whenever I wear metals that are not sterling silver or 14k gold. I have no issue with their earrings, bracelets, or rings, which is something that I am really impressed by.

Additionally, I want to mention how lightweight their hoops are. These hoops went virtual a few years ago, and I grabbed a pair. They were so comfortable and easy to wear to the point that I forgot that I had them in. Yup, that’s how easy they were.

Furthermore, I know that I mentioned earlier that with this type of jewelry that it needs to be babied. However, I did not practice what I preached. I have been wearing my pinky ring stack (which is an eternity band and a pointed ring) and washed my hands and applied lotion with it on with no issues. So even though I said to baby it, I think that it will withstand it if you choose to do so anyways.

That being said, one final thing that I want to mention about Pavoi is it is carbon neutral, which I think that is really awesome. I know that we all like to be a little more eco conscious when it comes to the things that we purchase, but this brand has got you covered. That is something that I personally really enjoy about the brand.

Now that you heard my thoughts about the brand, you must be asking yourself this question: is it worth it?

My answer is yes, 100 hundred percent hands down. Many of these pieces are less than $25, and for jewelry in that price point, I think it’s a steal. The quality is better than many of the fashion pieces that are in this price range, and they blend with some of my other higher quality pieces for that price. It’s a plus that they are one thousand percent hypoallergenic, which makes them so accessible for many of the people out there.

Further, I think that Pavoi is a good option for people who are interested in getting a more investment piece, but are not sure if it will be something that would work. The stakes are so much lower, so if it doesn’t work out, the money lost will be so much less. I also think that they are great options for travel jewelry, because if they get lost, it’s not as devastating as a piece that was hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Overall, as a non influencer, I would say that highly recommend checking out Pavoi to grow a jewelry collection, and to add some sparkle to daily life. I know I will continue wearing some of the pieces that I’ve picked up, and already plan to add more to my collection.

My personal favorites are:

February Faves

February was a short month, but it was a long one. It was busy with work, and it took a huge toll on me emotionally. However, I am now writing this in March and I’m really happy that spring is on its way at long last.

Ready or Not by Cara Bastone: This book was sitting on my shelves for a while. I picked it up over one weekend and devoured it. It is about Eve, who unexpectedly becomes pregnant after a one night stand. The book follows her pregnancy journey, along with her romance with her best friend’s brother, Shep. This was an amazing novel, and one of my favorite books that I’ve read thus far in 2025.

Baggalini Triple Zip Crossbody: Baggalini is one of my new favorite brands that I’ve been slowly adding pieces to my collection. I love them that they have so many different pockets and organization. This bag is my favorite because it’s compact, but it still is able to fit my essentials — including my beloved Kindle. I highly recommend this bag if you’re on the go, or even if you’re looking for a bag small enough to carry the essentials.

Sheila Fajil Everyone’s Favorite Hoops: I am a hoop girly through and through. These are so chunky, but so lightweight. I’ve worn these for two or three days in a row and have absolutely had no issues with these hoops. I recommend these if you’re a sensitive girly like myself.

Real Housewives of Beverly Hills: This has been one of my favorite shows as of late. I’ve gotten invested in this show thanks to my mother in law. Every Wednesday, we sit and watch the show together that was recorded from the night before. There’s a lot of drama, it’s mindless, but it’s something that I love to watch to get my mind off of my daily adventures.

Nespresso Oatly: This flavor is limited time, and I wish that Nespresso would consider having this as a part of the regular lineup. I have been enjoying this so much, and I want to stock up on a few boxes to enjoy. 10/10 recommend.

Fiber Faves of February 2025

Happy Thursday everyone! There is only one day left in the month of February, and I am finally sitting down to share my favorites in my adventures in my crochet journey with you.

The reason why this one was later than usually was the sad news that Joann is closing and going out of business. I’ve been going to Joann since I was little. It was my favorite place to get craft supplies and the closest at the time. While I am a hobbyist, I do feel for those who have small businesses who use Joann yarn and those who work at Joann and would be losing their jobs as well. That being said, anything from Joann will not be linked since I don’t know where else to find it at this time.

On that sad note, here are my fiber faves this month:

Patterns:

Other Crochet Items:

Silver Sands Gyro Offers A Chance To Head to the Mediterranean Without a Flight Ticket

During this time of year, I find myself craving the sunshine and warmth of the Mediterranean. However, it is not plausible for me to hop on a plane to head there at this moment in time. Enter Silver Sands Gyro.

Silver Sands Gyro is a new restaurant located in Milford, Conn. I’ve enjoyed their food quite a few times as of late, and I will be honest that every time was a treat. The decor fits into that peaceful blue that is associated with the serene Mediterranean Sea that is miles away from Milford. However, it’s the food that is worth the buzz.

The menu consists of a Subway-style build your own pita, salads, and bowls, as well as some special options. What is really cool about Silver Sands Gyro is that the fact that you can completely customize your meal — from meat choices (chicken, Falafel, steak, gyro, and kofta), to dressings and toppings. However, they do have a few other treats on the menu as well, such as the delicious rice pudding and baklava.

Right now, my go-to on the menu is a pita with grilled chicken, lettuce, onions, and tzatziki sauce. That is my go-to because their ingredients are so fresh and delicious. I’ve also had their Falafel — which was my first time having it — and it was absolutely amazing. They had a little kick of spice of them, but did not lack flavor. In addition, I’ve also tried their seasoned fries and they were absolutely delicious as well. What I liked about those is that those fries don’t taste overly salty. Instead they rely on natural flavors and seasonings. Perfect for this high blood pressure girly.

Oh, and before I forget, we need to talk about the hummus. The hummus was absolutely amazing. One bite of this is like biting into a piece of heaven. It is the perfect addition to anything that you get on the menu — from bowl to pita.

I will say that this is the perfect grab and go place if you need something quick or just want something to grab for dinner on your way home. One thing that I will note about this place is the takeout stays so well. You know some foods that you need to consume right then and there? Yeah, well this place can be taken home and enjoyed without lack of flavor. And in addition to in person ordering, they also offer all of their options online as well.

It is safe to say that I will be a regular at Silver Sands Gyro — whether it’s a falafel pita, or a bite of hummus — long after my winter blues subside.

What’s In My Bag Wednesday: the Coach Ellie File Bag

I think I found a Coach bag that is both underrated and a much more affordable alternative to the Louis Vuitton Odeon PM — the Coach Ellie File Bag.

This is a bag that is not new in my collection by any means. I purchased both the black pebble leather and the brown/black monogram versions back in 2022 from the Coach Outlet. I’ve used them for daytrips, and trust me, they were perfect for a casual on the go moment.

I used the Ellie this past weekend to take a day trip shopping and to the Melting Pot, and I was pleasantly surprised that the bag was able to fit my knitting project. Granted, when I am not going into work, I don’t take a lot of things with me anyways, but it’s a good thing to know if you like to travel with your crochet or knitting like I do.

Here’s what fit in my bag at that moment.

  • Coach Essential Mini Card Case
  • Country Cottage Fingerless Gloves
  • Summer Fridays Lip Balm in Vanilla
  • Summer Fridays Lip Gloss
  • Touch land Hand Santizer
  • My knitting project

The next day, I went ahead and switched my everyday bag from the Coach Teri Hobo. It was able to fit my usual everyday things, which are:

Plasko’s Farm in Trumbull Combines Rich and Creamery Family History to Create an Inviting Cafe

I cannot think of a better combination other than coffee and ice cream. Plasko’s Cafe and Creamery, located in Trumbull, Conn., has that combination; as well as delicious baked treats and an extensive cafe menu.

Plasko’s is located just off of Daniel’s Farm Road, and has one of the most coziest and inviting atmospheres which made me want to curl up and just unwind. Plasko’s is connected to a full blown farm as well; which adds to the coziness of the place. The farm origins are noticeable in the decor and throughout the entire shop.

That coziness is what I loved most about my time there. I grabbed a tea and a cake pop, and plopped myself right next to the fireplace. And that vibe was exactly what I needed after a long week.

The history of the cafe and farm is extensive. According to their website, Plasko’s began in 1925 when Martin and Mary Plasko moved to the United States from Czechoslovakia. Martin worked for 10 years on an Osyter boat in Norwalk to be able to purchase the land in Trumbull for him and his family to live and work in. It was continued for generations to come with the next generation opening up in 1952 at the Daniels Farm Road location. In 1997, John Plasko, Jr., renovated the farm to revert back to its original purpose. The creamery and cafe, which are new additions, opened in 2017 and 2020.

As I mentioned, Plasko’s has a cafe menu, consisting of the usual suspects; coffee, tea, lattes, hot chocolate, and specials. But what blew me away is the options. They have a huge selection of syrup flavors and milks to allow you to create a drink completely tailored to your tastes. I ordered a citrus hibiscus tea, and the barista had asked me if I wanted any honey or sugar in my tea.

And the treats. Oh, the treats. That menu, too, is extensive and mouthwatering. I had ordered both a cake pop and a cupcake to try. One bite into that cake pop and I was in complete heaven that Starbucks can never reach. The cupcake was also delicious. It was one of those cupcakes that tasted so rich that you need a glass of milk to wash it down with. In addition to cupcakes, they also offer scones, muffins, cookies, breakfast sandwiches, and more.

In addition to those treats, Plasko’s also offers pies and ice cream cakes made to order as well.

Finally, I need to place further emphasis on the ice cream. The list of flavors is so expansive it’s not even funny. I simply can’t get into that long list. They offer sundaes, cones, and so many toppings. In addition, there is the ability to have ice cream put in your coffee, something that sounds absolutely delicious.

This was my first time visiting Plasko’s, but it certainly won’t be my last. I’m so happy I stumbled upon this little piece of Trumbull history and encourage you to do the same.

DMBA Spreads Love with Hearts Around Downtown Milford

Love is in the air in Downtown Milford. The Downtown Milford Business Association is taking the quote “a small city with a big heart,” quite literally with the Hearts for Milford event.

The hearts were available for purchase last month on the association’s website, but made their grand debut yesterday, and survived the snowy weather of last night’s storm. The hearts give off the conversation hearts vibes — very whimsical, nostalgic, and festive.

According to Natalie Scherbaum, PR and Social Media for the Downtown Milford Business Association, the idea came from seeing them in “another city.” She added that any message could be written on these hearts.

What is really unique about the hearts is its promotion for small business. The website said that you can “take your special someone for a stroll downtown to search for your heart,” and to “grab a drink or dinner at one of their member restaurants.” After all, there’s nothing more romantic than a stroll.

“The response has been positive from the community,” says Scherbaum.

And that can be noted from the hearts. They vary from both personal to business, and are scattered throughout downtown. Some of the messages include: I love us; the Canvas Patch Loves Milford; spread love, spread kindness, spread butter from Scratch Baking, and so much more. It takes about 20 minutes to walk around the green, and it is 100 percent worth it.

All you need is love, and this is noted in this very event. These hearts will be spreading love until February 17th.

January Favorites

Happy Monday, and happy first Monday of February. Was it me, or did it seem like January go on forever?!

Well, folks. We’ve finally made it to February. Before we leave the month of January behind us, I want to take a moment to reflect on some of my favorites of the month.

  1. Clare V. Moyen Messenger Bag: This bag was featured in a recent What’s in My Bag post, and it’s safe to say that I absolutely loved this bag this month. I loved having the versatility of the 2 straps. I loved the capacity. I loved that it was a leather version of my beloved Baggu bags, which is something that I really loved. Yes, she’s pricey, but she is worth it.
  2. P.S. I Hate You by Lauren Connolly: This book made me cry. It was the ultimate enemies to lovers story, and I ate it up. It is about Maddie and Dom, who after a rejection, hated each other. They are brought together by Maddie’s brother and Dom’s best friend, Josh, who passed away. Josh’s final wishes are for them to embark on a road trip on the states he has not visited, and have them spread his ashes. The road trip, the overcoming of their fears, and the love story were enough to make me obsessed with this book.
  3. God of the Woods by Liz Moore: This was on my TBR for so long, and I am so happy I got this one. This is about a family whose older son and younger daughter have gone missing, and follow the search for the daughter. I loved this book, and I highly recommend it.
  4. Coach New York Pouch: This wristlet has been my ride or die for the last few months. It’s simple, but it holds everything that I need in the moments that I do not wish to carry a purse. Wallet, keys, random stuff. Yes, this bag can do that. This bag is similar to the Louis Vuitton Neverfull pouch, but a little more subtle, and a little more wallet friendly. I am heavily considering adding the Maple to my collection soon as well.
  5. ENewton Bracelets: This month, I have fallen back in love with these bracelets. I have been creating so many simply and easy stacks with them, and have been enjoying them. They are pricey, yes, but the quality of them is unmatched.
  6. The Favorites by Layne Fargo: We’re ending this with my favorite book that I read this year. I was obsessed with this book. I couldn’t put it down. This is about Health and Kat, famous ice skaters, and follows their careers over the decades. This book engulfed me. I couldn’t get enough of them, and I am so happy that I picked it up.

What’s In My Bag Wednesday: Clare V. Moyen Messenger Bag

Clare V. Is a new brand for me. Their bags offer the ability to completely customize them depending on what kind of look that you’re going for.

I recently got the Moyen Messenger Bag in black, and let me tell you, I am so obsessed with this bag. The bag is an investment piece, but what I truly love about it is the fact that comes with two completely removable straps, and I can even go ahead and add more to completely change up the look.

What I have been loving about the bag so far is that not only is it completely customizable, but the fact that it’s a slouchy and comfortable bag to wear. It kind of reminds me of the Baggu Medium Crescent where it becomes a bottomless pit that is deceivingly spacious. Mary Poppins bag who?

So…what fits in this bag?

Well, let me tell you: