August 29, 2016

Thirty Day Packing List








Happy Monday all! Hope you had a fun yet relaxing weekend and are now ready to take on the week! I spent the good part of my weekend preparing for my trip, which involved a little planning, packing, and of course shopping. The reality of my trip is starting to sink in and I must say I am getting really really excited! 

However, if we are being completely honest, packing has never been my thing. I am extremely indecisive, and having to pick and choose what I want to bring with me has never been my idea of a good time. If I had my way I would bring my entire closet with me wherever I went, but of course that is unfortunately not the reality. So, it comes as no surprise when I tell you I am your classic over packer! 

As excited as I am for this trip, the idea of having one suitcase for 30 days and multiple climates gives me anxiety to say the least. As discouraged as I was before I began, I knew that this was not the first time someone had to do it and that despite my doubts, it could be successfully done. One of my best friends told me, "If anyone can do it, it's you" - whether that's true or not we will see! What I basically determined is that in order to live out of a suitcase for thirty days, my only option was to pack smart. Full disclosure - I have never packed for thirty days before, so these are not tried and true tips, however, it is what makes the most sense to me when forced to make it work!

First and foremost, when it comes to packing for an extended length, pick a neutral color scheme or just a color scheme in general and stick with it. By doing so, everything works together and everything can be mixed and matched. Next, bring items that are versatile and that can be worn in multiple different outfit combinations. This will save you a ton of room in your suitcase. By doing just those two things, you've already greatly expanded your wardrobe options! For trips that involve warmer weather, dresses are your best friend. They are an easy, no-fuss way to look super cute and put together with no effort at all.

My last suggestion would be to make a list. I love making lists in general to help stay organized, and packing for a trip is no different. Writing down what you want to bring is a great starting point before you start ripping things out of your closet. I promise that once you have a plan the actual packing for 30 days is not as daunting as it sounds!

In the event that you find yourself packing for a long trip, I thought I would give you an idea of what I am packing in my suitcase for my European adventure. At the end of the day, travel is about seeing the world, not what you're wearing while you do so. Enjoy and bon voyage! 


August 26, 2016

Friday Finds No. 8

Happy Friday!! After a crazy busy week I am welcoming the weekend with open arms. I can't even believe I am saying this, but it was officially my last week of nursing school!! The past year has truly flown by, and the fact that it is over is really hard to believe. Completing a one year nursing program was most certainly not the easiest and at times seemed impossible, but here I am almost 365 days later able to happily say I did it! Now it is time to celebrate my accomplishments and enjoy before I take off to explore Europe! 

I hope you find yourself this weekend doing something to enjoy one of the last weekends of summer. Get out there and soak it all in while you still can. Enjoy! 



NYC Rooftop Bars // With Labor Day quickly approaching, now is the time to soak up as much of the rest of summer as we can. To me this means doing as many summer activities as possible before fall is upon us! One of my favorite things to do is grab an evening cocktail somewhere you can take full advantage of the weather on a beautiful summer night. The perfect spot for that is most definitely a rooftop bar, and with views of Manhattan you just can't go wrong. If you're in the NYC area you have to check out these fun spots!

Going Out Looks from Around the World // How cool is this!? Finding out the right 'going out' look can sometimes be a struggle, and in college my girlfriends and I were constantly searching each other's closets for something new to wear out. If I'm being honest sometimes I liked getting ready to go out more than I actually liked the night itself (shh don't tell). In any event, each weekend I seemed to be wearing the same variation of the same type of outfit... and so was every other girl for that matter. I thought it was so interesting to see how other parts of the world dress to go out! Maybe from now on I will be inspired to try something new from these international looks.

10 Ways to Wake Up without Coffee // If I'm being honest the name of this article made me cringe a little bit, and I honestly didn't feel that strong of an urge to read it. The idea of waking up in the morning and not having coffee sounds god awful if you ask me. I love my coffee and I most certainly need it to help get my day off to a good start! However, sometimes I do wonder what it would be like to not have to rely on coffee to get me up in the morning. Although I am not quite at the point to give it a try yet, all the tips still seemed like good things to incorporate into your morning routine...with or without coffee!


xo. G 

August 24, 2016

Travel Essentials

As you all know, I am about to embark on a 30 day trip to Europe! I am over the moon excited and really cannot believe that it is almost here. Before I go, however, there are still a few things that I need to pick up so that I am fully prepared for my travels. With less than two weeks until my departure, I have started to make (many) lists of all the things I need to buy/pack. 

I thought I would share with you some of my travel essentials that will serve you well on any trip you take whether is be just a long weekend getaway or a 30 day adventure across Europe. The great thing about many of these travel essentials is that they are things you probably already have in your closet and if not are all items you can use in your everyday life while you aren't traveling. It's a win-win! 




'Outta Here' Passport Cover // How cute is this!? A passport cover is the perfect item to make travelling a little more chic. In a sea of boring navy blue passports why not have yours stand out a little bit? 

Sunnies // Sunglasses are always a necessity in my book - for style and functionality. Easy to throw on for a day of walking around new cities or for when you need a little snooze on that red eye. Also, always perfect for the day after a late night... 

Crossbody Bag // When spending many hours sightseeing and walking around exploring new places, a crossbody bag is key to help only carry the essentials around. There is nothing worse than having too much stuff to lug around all day, and this adorable crossbody is the perfect spot for the things you need most. 

Portable Phone Charger // This is a must. Not always having access to an outlet is one of the few minor frustrations about traveling. In this day and age it is crucial to have your phone charged for any photo-op that my come up, but it is even more important while traveling. You just cannot have a dieing phone while trying to snap a picture of the Eiffel Tower! 

S'well Water Bottle // I have had my eye on a S'well water bottle for quite some time now and recently was given one as a gift. It's safe to say that it is absolutely worth it. It truly keeps cold drinks cold for 24 hours and hot drinks hot for 12, which is perfect when you're out and about for long stretches of time! It's also super important to stay hydrated while traveling, and nothing makes that easier than a cute water bottle. 

Luggage Tag // I hate to even bring up the topic, but in the situation of lost luggage (nightmare) a luggage tag could make a huge difference. It's a tiny, cute accessory that could be potentially make recovering lost luggage a little bit less of a headache.  

Headphones // This one is pretty self explanatory. Perfect for long flights and bus rides where Netflix is a must! 

Tote Bag // The perfect tote bag is an essential for any and all types of travel, and can have many purposes throughout a trip. It is ideal to find a bag that can function as a carry-on and then easily be used throughout a trip when needed. It is always a good item to have for days when the crossbody bag just isn't cutting it! 


Hope you enjoyed the tips and maybe you're even feeling inspired to book a trip of your own! 

xo. G 

August 15, 2016

Alaina Marie Bait Bag Clutch














I am so thrilled that I finally got my hands on an Alaina Marie bait bag clutch! I was first introduced to the line about a year ago while visiting a friend in Portland, Maine. The bright colors and unique design immediately caught my eye while in a local shop, and I instantly fell in love with the idea, the story, and of course the design! For whatever reason, which up until this day I am still unsure of, I didn't buy the clutch. I don't think I've ever regretted anything more - moral of the story if you see something you like, buy it! 

Fast forward one year later to this summer, I was sadly still without a bait bag clutch (& still wanted one). A couple weekends ago while in Watch Hill, I was shopping in a boutique called Coastal 41 when I came across quite a few bait bag clutches (!!). You sure bet that I walked out of there with one! I was not about to let the opportunity pass me by once again. It was a hard decision (because they're all so cute) but I went with this one. The vibrant violet and citron were just too fun to pass up and perfect for summer! 

From the the two different sizes available, I went with the smaller of the two. It's the perfect size to use as a wallet, but is still large enough to function as a clutch. I love that it can fit all of your essentials for everything from a day at the beach to a night out on the town. However, the larger size is great as well and would be perfect for traveling or as a cosmetics pouch. I just bought one and I already want another! 

As I mentioned before I fell in love with the story behind the inspiration for Alaina Marie Bait Bags. There is nothing better than buying handmade, American products, and it feels so good knowing you are supporting a small business. And when the product is practical and fashionable, it's a total win! I promise you you will not be disappointed. 

I hope you find the most perfect bait bag for you and love it as much as I do! 

Shop my favorites... 


xo. G 

August 13, 2016

Friday {Saturday} Finds No. 7



Happy Friday (Saturday) everyone!! My apologies for not getting this post up yesterday - free time is just hard to come by these days! Regardless, I hope everyone is having a great start to the weekend and finding a way to stay cool in this crazy heat. I know I will be poolside for the majority of the weekend. It's the only way to stay cool in 90 degree weather! I hope you enjoy reading my finds from this past week - ideally by the water with a margarita in hand! 

Enjoy and keep cool! 

Vespa Events // With August (sadly) almost coming to a close, I have been trying to find ways to make the most of the summer days we have left. Quite a few months back I tried out Vespa in Westport, which was nothing short of amazing. I raved about it in this post back in February and cannot wait to get back. Needless to say I was thrilled when I came across this list of events they are hosting during the month of August. Any event that includes food and wine is a definite go in my book, especially during the warm summer months. I highly recommend checking one or two of them out. You just might bump into me at the half-off rosé event!

Big [City] Moves // I just loved the message that I took away from reading this article. To me Danielle's experience moving halfway across the country to a brand new city away from her family and friends is a lesson to not be afraid to make a bold move that some would consider crazy. I am a firm believer that if you're not happy where you are that you have the power to change that. Sometimes finding the place you are meant to be requires stepping out of your comfort zone and taking a leap of faith. The scariest of changes are oftentimes the most rewarding, it just takes bravery and trusting your gut that it will all work out. If you are ever considering making a bold move, I say take a deep breath and go for it. You have nothing to lose!

10 Target Décor Items // Anyone that knows me, knows I am mildly obsessed with Target. I can't tell you why but it is one of my favorite places. Over the years I have just accepted that no matter what I am going into Target for, I always end up moseying around the entire store (and filling up an entire basket full of items). I have also learned that it is impossible to spend less than fifty dollars in any one shopping trip, but hey if it makes you happy than I say go for it. I feel like Target has really stepped up it's game in the past few years, which contributes to my inability to say no to buying things. I am loving these décor items. They really look like they are from some high-end design shop, and you just can't beat the price! Although I don't have an apartment to decorate right now, this sure is making me wish I did.

xo. G 

August 10, 2016

Watch Hill, R.I.






Watch Hill, located in the quintessential New England town of Westerly, Rhode Island, is the idyllic destination for anyone looking for a beach getaway. It has the upscale feels of an affluent seaside village, but still maintains just the right amount of coastal charm. For as long as I can remember, Watch Hill has been my go to seaside escape, and it remains one of my favorite beaches on the east coast. A day spent at Watch Hill makes my heart very happy, and I do my best to get there as much as I can during the summer months.

After spending the day at Watch Hill's beautiful East Beach this past weekend, I thought I would share my love for WH with all of you. What I love so much, and what I go to Watch Hill for is of course the beach, but there is also so much more to explore - you can really make a day (or long weekend) out of it! I typically love to get on the beach early to secure a spot and soak up the morning sunshine before heading into town for lunch. The wonderful thing about Watch Hill is everything is in close proximity to each other, so it is a quick walk from the beach to the shops and restaurants. As I've mentioned before, one of my favorite things in entire world is eating a great sandwich on the beach, and Watch Hill does not disappoint in the sandwich department. My absolute favorite is the #1 from Ten Sandwiches - you have to try it, so good!

Since I am not able to get to Watch Hill as much as I would ideally like, I try to spend as much time on the beach when I do go. It is just so hard to leave an idyllic spot with such beautiful views. I could literally stay forever. I tend to stay on the beach until late afternoon before packing up and heading back into town for some shopping. The shops are exactly what you would imagine them being in a seaside town. They are the perfect mix of apparel & home interior boutiques, and gift shops all with a coastal feel. I definitely recommend checking them out! The last thing I love to do before heading back to Connecticut is taking a stroll to admire the beautiful summer homes that line the streets. They are absolutely to die for, and I would take any one of them in a heartbeat! You can't miss The Ocean House, a grand, beautiful hotel with views overlooking the ocean, that has become an iconic New England resort. It is on my 101 in 1001 list, and it is where I dream of someday getting married.

Before you take a trip to Watch Hill take a look at some of my favorite spots that I listed below. I promise you that a trip to WH will not disappoint, and it is sure to quickly become a favorite. I hope you love Watch Hill as much as I do. Enjoy!

BEACHES 

FOOD

SHOPPING

WHERE TO STAY

xo. G

August 08, 2016

Summer Reading

Reading is something I have grown to enjoy more and more as I have gotten older. During the summer months, nothing makes me happier than sitting by a pool or on a beach with a great book in hand. To me that is total relaxation! Give me a great book and nothing else to do, and I promise you I will be very content all day long.

I have unfortunately not had the most free time on my hands this summer (thank you nursing school), and therefore haven't had much time to read as often as I would like. Because of this my 'must read' list has grown quite a lot. There are just so many great books out there, and I want to read them all. I am so looking forward to the day when my time becomes mine again, and I can spend it doing what I please! Needless to say, getting back into reading is something I cannot wait for.

I figured I would share that list with you just in case you were looking for a new read. Even if you weren't necessarily looking for a new book, maybe one of these will spark your interest!

Enjoy and happy reading!


Must-Reads! 
xo. G 

August 05, 2016

Enjoying the Moment While You're in It


I'm not sure about anyone else, but I am someone who does a lot of thinking while driving. I mean when you're in the car alone there's not much else to do other than listen to the radio and be alone with your thoughts! Of course what's on your mind varies from day to day and week to week, but I think we would all be lying if we weren't thinking about something - regardless of how trivial or unimportant it may be.

The other day I was driving home from a long day of classes, the last one of the week, and thinking about how crazy it is how fast time is flying by. I was thinking about nursing school in particular and about how in a few short weeks I will officially be done, and saying goodbye to another chapter in my life. Out of nowhere came an emotion that is not one I have associated with finishing nursing school - sadness. I have been so wrapped up in the excitement of almost being done, and being more than ready to say goodbye to the past year, that I haven't realized that there will actually be a thing or two I will miss.

There are people that a short eleven months ago were complete strangers to me, but who have truly become really great friends. It's amazing just how close you can get with people in such a short amount of time. After spending day in and day out with them and bonding over the highs and lows of nursing school, you find your person or people who make it all bearable. I have no doubts that some of these people will forever be lifelong friends and thinking about parting ways so soon makes me a little bit sad.

Something else is about to change as well with the completion of nursing school. For the past seventeen years of my life, 'student' has been among my many roles. Come August thirty-first however, I will no longer be a student. Don't get me wrong, I will not miss the stress or nonstop studying that accompanies being in school, but I have always loved school and learning. There will most certainly be a part of me that misses it. Of course this isn't to say that I will never go back to school again, maybe I will, but until that potentially happens, a student, I will not be.

The point I am trying to make is that it is important to always enjoy moments and experiences while you are in them. Don't wish the time away, but also don't be stuck in the past. Just be. You never know how you will feel when you are faced with an ending, and you just might never get those moments, experiences, or situations back. Some things are easier to say goodbye to than others but regardless of how ready you are for something to be over, never forget to soak it all up while you still can. You just might miss it more than you think!

p.s. Happy Friday !! 

xo. G 

August 01, 2016

Hello August!


August! You are finally here!! I am so so very happy to see you. I have been waiting for the month of August for quite some time now, so to say I am thrilled would be an understatement. Today, the first day of August, is a little bit more significant than months prior have been. First and foremost, August first is the date that marks exactly thirty days until I am done with nursing school (!!). The past eleven months have been quite the whirlwind to say the least! Working towards my end goal of becoming a registered nurse has of course been exciting, but it has also been an exhausting and trying experience at times. It has most certainly been worthwhile, but I am also very ready to be done and heading onto the next chapter. I feel like with only 30 days left to go I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel!

The arrival of August also means that I am only one month away from my adventure to Europe! I know I am a little ahead of the game, but I can't wait to start getting ready for (read: shopping for) my trip. As far as the clothing department goes, I am pretty much set (maybe a thing or two more...) but there are a few last minute 'travel' things that I need to pick up before I am off. I still can't believe that in no time at all I will be heading out to explore Europe for a month! Seriously pinch me. Booking this trip was one of the best things I could have done, as it was at a point in my life where having something to look forward to made a world of difference. Even now it is so nice to have something to get excited for during the home stretch of nursing school!

And lastly, I hope that the arrival of August means more time for blogging. I have been MIA for a good part of July, as school was really my main focus and it left very minimal time for much of anything else. I can't say I was thrilled about that - I love this blog and really want to do it as much as I can - but I also understand that school was the priority at the time. What made it easier was knowing that it wouldn't be like this forever, and that I am getting even closer to being able to commit much more time to Faith & Fancy, which is something I am very happy about! As always, thank you so much for following along! It truly means the world to me.

I hope you all have exciting things to come, and are looking forward to August as much as I am. Enjoy!


The Hills Reunion // Is anyone else way too excited about this or is it just me? Hope you don't have plans for tomorrow night because we are about to take a trip down memory lane to the mid 2000s when tuning into the Hills was seriously the highlight of my week. I think we can all agree that Lauren Conrad was our idol (and might still be), and I cannot wait to hear all about what they never told us. It has been so wonderful to be able to follow along in LCs journey to becoming a successful fashion designer and author, and it will be great to go back for a night to where it all began! 

50 Best Practices // I came across this while perusing pinterest the other day, and really loved the tips given on how to live a 'well-designed life'. All fifty are simple actions that we can all take (and I'm sure all need) to help stay on track of living the best life we can. It is always nice to read something like this and be reminded of how easy it is for us to make simple changes that can really better our day-to-day lives. Don't be afraid to give them a try and see what happens!

Summer Beach Picnic // Anyone that knows me is well aware that I am a huge fan of the beach, and anyone that knows me also knows that I love food. I must say, if I were ever asked to choose between the two I'm not quite sure what I would pick! Nothing makes me quite as happy as sitting on the beach on a summer day with a grinder in hand. So it comes as no surprise that when I found this article about picnicking on the beach, it immediately caught my eye. I love that this article shows a more grown-up picnic - complete with flowers, a cheese spread, and of course wine. Sounds right up my alley if you ask me (& super romantic). With only a few more weeks of summer left, this is a great easy way to make the most of a beautiful, warm summer night while you still can!

August Favorites
Striped Maxi Dress
The Chainsmokers 'Closer'
Essie 'Ballet Slippers'

August Wishlist
GiGi New York Madison Crossbody
Nike Free RN Flyknits
Illesteva 'Palm Beach' Sunnies
J.Crew 'Paris' T-shirt

xo. G