Stella and Dot Fall Arrivals

Animal print is SO on trend this fall season.  I'm seeing it everywhere!  This is the PERFECT clutch for this season.  You can dress it up or down.  And the pops of color with orange and navy are SO on point.  Has the built in wallet and will fit all of your essentials.  Highly recommend!!!

Looking for a chic duffle bag then this is THE bag for you.  Comes in this blush and also and olive green.  Fits all the essentials and has great interior pockets to store stuff.  Love the quilted exterior.  This will get a lot of use from me...especially when I start using my office's gym after work!

This is the PERFECT statement necklace for the fall.  I love the simplicity of the gold chain with the navy and red ribbon.  I have a lot of simple navy pieces in my wardrobe that this will dress up.  If you don't want the ribbon to show just turn it around to have the full gold chain. 

I love a good ring stack and finally I bit the bullet and got a bunch of dainty rings for my right hand that I can mix and match on different fingers.  Here are the looks I love.

(L to R) pointer / ring (top) / ring (bottom)

middle finger / ring finger

Five Friday Favorites - New Beach Vacation Loves

With lots of folks headed out on vacation in August...mainly to the beach...I thought I'd share five new items that I brought with me on our beach vacation that I LOVED!

#1 - Rattan Purse

shirt / shorts / shoes / purse

Nice hard exterior so it's durable.  Secures well and there's a lot of space for my stuff...and my Hubs.

#2 - Travel Bag

I always end up traveling with two (sometimes three) bags full of my face stuff, make up, hair stuff, etc. so I finally decided to get a bag big enough to fit everything.  This one from Target is FABULOUS.  I spotted it when I was getting some travel size items.  It fits EVERYTHING and its all organized.  HIGHLY recommend.

#3 - Portable Speaker

We actually purchased this speaker at the Target at the beach.  We wanted something that could hold up on the beach and at the pool.  This one was great.  Really good sound and it still worked after dropping it several times in the sand.

#4 - Supergoop Pump Sunscreen

I am going to buy this pump sunscreen every year moving forward.  It was SOO much easier to use and rub on than the other ones I've used.  Our beach routine every day was to get fully rub down with this sunscreen in the house before we headed to the beach.  It smells good and I really think the coverage was excellent.  No one in my family got burnt this vacation (of course we were diligent in reapplying at the beach with spray).

#5 - Glide Stick

Thank goodness for Amazon shipping because my beach bum babies were getting MAJOR irritation from all the boogie bordering they were doing so I ordered this to help and it saved the day.  Worked like a charm.  There's also a boy version....it's really just the original but in blue packaging.

Five Friday Favorites - Beach/Pool Must Haves for Spring Break

We have spring break coming up and can't wait to take our trip to the Paradisus resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico!!!  Its only a couple weeks away and I'm starting to plan out what we need...trying to be as efficient with my packing as possible.  Over the next few weeks, I'll share all the things I'm packing.  First up, wanted to focus this week's Five Friday Favorites on my necessities for the beach/pool while we are there.

#1 - Beach Bag

A beach bag is going to be key as I'll be transporting not just my stuff but the kiddos and hubs.  I did a blog post the other day because I'm searching for one to take with me that will transport easily.  Check it out here.  I'm down to two options my Stella and Dot one that will also be my carry on or the cute rainbow one from Amazon that will lay flat in my suitcase.

#2 - Affordable Sunnies

Of course sunglasses are a must.  I don't think I will be packing my nice ones as we are going to be running all around the resort and with my crazy kiddos in the water I don't want them to get broken.  And these SOJOS are just as good as my Ray Bans but a fraction of the cost. They go on lightning deal a lot so make sure you follow my Facebook page so you can see when they are up.

#3 - Hat 

Can't wait wait to wear my new hat...it was under $20 and is going to be the perfect poolside accessory!  Now I just need to figure out how to pack it without smushing it...let me know if you have any suggestions.

#4 - Phone Protector 

I got these waterproof phone protectors for the beach last year and SO glad I did especially for when we are at the beach.  I was always worried about bringing my phone because I didn't want it to get sand in it.  With this now I don't have to worry. 


#5 - Books (or in my case, audio books)

To me there's nothing better than laying out at the pool or beach with a good book.  Now that I have kids the days of doing that are few and far between but I still try and get one good read it...well listen that is with Audible.  I can still get the "read" while watching my kids.  For this trip, I'm hoping to finish Girl Stop Apologizing and I need a new one...any recommendations?? 

Finding the Perfect Travel Beach Bag

We leave for spring break in three weeks and it's the first time we are taking the kids so I'm trying to be creative to minimize the number of bags we have and finding versatile solutions.  One of the challenges is what bag am I going to bring to keep all of our stuff for the pool/beach.  Tried out a bunch of bags to share with you. 

bathing suit top / bathing suit bottoms (similar) / bag

I'm leading with my favorite bag of all the ones I tried but please make sure check them all out because there are really good options. To me this bag doesn't have any negatives.  I love the bright colors, durable straw material, zipper closure and will lay flat for packing purposes.  Big fan and HIGHLY recommend.

bathing suit top / bathing suit bottoms (similar) / bag

This bag was probably my least favorite of all of them.  It's a nice neutral and I jazzed it up with this fun tassel. The bag would definitely lay flat for packing purposes but it's not big enough for my needs.  Also overall I don't think this bag is really great quality.  

bathing suit top / bathing suit bottoms (similar) / bag

Love how bright this Martha Stewart bag is...perfect beach colors.  Lays flat so will be easy for packing.  Only two downsides...it doesn't have a zip closure and it won't fit everything I need with two kids and a husband.  It retails for $50 but Macy's is having lots of specials and I've been seeing it for $25 or less.

bathing suit top / bathing suit bottoms (similar) / bag on left / tassel on left / bag on right

I love these under $20 from Walmart of all places.  Super cute stray bags with fun colors but the only problem is they don't really lay flat so packing them will be a pain.  I added a little extra color with the one on the left with an extra tassel from Amazon.

bathing suit top / bathing suit bottoms (similar) / bag

The other alternative is to use my carry on bag as my beach bag.  It's a super cute and beachy print and it's adjustable so I can make it smaller for the beach and keep big for on the plane.  It has as zipper and an additional pouch on the inside.  And I wouldn't need another bag but I'd really like to see if I can make the Amazon stripe one work.

Five Friday Favorites - NYC Travel Essentials

If you follow me on Facebook or Instagram you saw that we are spending the weekend in NYC for Little Mini's birthday.  Two nights filled with lots of fun stuff for us.  I thought for this week's Five Friday Favorites I would share my FIVE essentials for this trip that will hopefully make it a little easier -

#1 - Comfortable (but stylish) shoes

Just because you want to have comfortable shoes for traveling, doesn't mean they don't have to be cute.  I'm OBSESSED with these blush New Balances.  So comfortable but SO chic.  Goes with a lot of outfit options two...wearing them to travel in jeans and then travel home in joggers.  Plus I can wear them throughout the weekend depending on what we are doing.

#2 - Backpack with function and style

This super cute quilted backpack (also available in blush camo) is going to serve as my travel bag and purse.  With two kids to keep after while we explore, I didn't want to have to worry about having a purse on my arm and I'll be able to fit stuff for the kids.  This one has an easy access back pocket where I can put my phone, chapstick and other small items.  And it can fit my laptop and bag of snacks for the train ride.  HIGHLY recommend.

#3 - Packing Cubes 

In order to limit the number of suitcases I'm packing the minis and myself all in one bag and Hubs will be in another.  With this situation it was critical that we use both my packing cubes and the minis so that we could keep everything in order.  If you don't already own a set, I HIGHLY recommend.  I even got Hubs on board with them.

#4 - Portable Charger

I never leave for a trip without a portable charger...especially this trip because we will be out and about all day/night and using our phones for pictures, directions, Ubers, etc.

#5 - Headphones for the Minis

I probably should have listed kids tablets as one of the essentials but I thought that was a given.  Headphones are a MUST to go with them so they can still enjoy their show but not everyone else on the train does.  I picked these up on Amazon...under $15 and work great.  Several color options so each of the girls has their own and there's no fighting.

Five Friday Favorites #19

With all the travel I've been doing for work, I thought I'd dedicate this week's Five Friday Favorites to my favorite travel must have items!

#1 - Favorite Travel Look

When I travel most times I have to be in work clothes because I have to head right to meetings but when I don't this is by far my favorite travel outfit.  It's cute but very comfortable! Shop all the pieces - 

Sweatshirt

Cami  

Leggings 

Sneakers

Bag

#2 - Two Favorite Travel Bags

I have two favorite travel bags...first is the Getaway.  I took this as my carry on bag to Hawaii and it was perfect.  It's adjustable and fits SO.MUCH.STUFF.  This is my go-to bag not just for airplane travel but also when we do weekend trips, etc.  Highly recommend and comes in all sorts of patterns. 

The second is the Crush It Bag.  Technically it's a gym bag but it's a perfect size to take on a plane and the bottom compartment fits my laptop perfectly.  I made this my "purse" for this last trip and was able to have my roller bag be my carry on.  Fit everything I needed.  Highly recommend. 

#3 - Perfect Travel Dress 

 I got a simple black LOFT swing dress a couple years ago and it is my go-to travel dress YEAR ROUND.  Doesn't take up a lot of space and works so well no matter the climate.  I took it with me on my trip this week specifically to wear in NY with boots and tights but when plans changed I could wear it in Houston with bare legs and flats.  Highly recommend...here's a similar one.  

#4 - Face Mask

Traveling really takes a toll on my skin.  I try to remember to pack one of these masks to take with me to do before bed one night.  Doesn't take up a lot of spaces but gives my skin that extra boost of hydration it needs.  

#5 - Versatile Jewelry

I love my jewelry but when I travel I try to keep it simple and pack/wear stuff that is versatile and will go with most outfits.  This trio is a go to travel selection for me because they can be worn together or separately depending on the outfit.  Shop the pieces here -

Celestial (top)

Wishing (middle)

Bar Engraveable (bottom)

And I'm sure this luggage will be added to the list.  I've heard amazing things about it.  I just ordered and can't wait for it to arrive.

Holiday Gift Ideas - Under $40 for Her

Here are some of my favorite gifts for her all under $40.  Check them out.

#1 - BP Sweater - I absolutely love this sweater.  It's PERFECT everyday sweater and comes in a variety of colors.  And you can't beat the $39 price.  Highly recommend.  True to size. 

#2 - Pom Pom Hat - You can't go wrong with a fun pom pom hat and this one is sure to be a gift winner.  The navy and white stripe pattern is perfect with just the right size pom pom sitting on the top.  I actually find myself just wearing this in the house too.

#3 - Rose Gift Set - Love, love. love this gift set.  The most beautiful pink stud earrings paired with a super cute rose pouf.  You can give them together or split them up as two separate gifts.  You end up saving almost $10 with them paired together.  This has been a popular gift item among Christina's Favorite Things reader.  It's a definite winner.

#4 - Knot Bracelet - This is a classic knot bracelet and the perfect gift for any special lady on your wish list.  Comes in silver and gold.  Can be worn on its on or stacked.  Highly recommend.  I've gotten two already this season as gifts. 

#5 - Travel Accessories - These travel jewelry bags, pouches and poufs make for great gifts because everyone can use them and rarely do we buy them for ourselves.  And I'm obsessed with this new hanging bag.  I I know I put some travel items on my wish list this year because the ones I've had for years are starting to fall apart. 

Favorite Thing #120 - Vera Bradley Weekender Bag

I got this favorite thing as a Christmas gift from my parents. The Vera Bradley weekender bag is so perfect for different things. I use it almost everyday when I got to work. I am very fortunate that the building I work in has a newly renovated locker room and gym facility. So I have been doing lunchtime workouts and this bag is perfect because it holds my work out clothes, sneakers, towel, and cosmetic bag. This bag is also great for overnight trips too. It fits just the right amount of stuff. I tend to be an over packer so if it is more than one night I use Favorite Thing #90. The dimensions are 18½” x 12½” x 8½” - 6½” handle drop – 48½” and it has a removable strap. It retails for $92 but you can get it cheaper if you buy it in a retiring color ($59).


I still really, really love Favorite Thing #20. I practically lived in this dress last spring/summer and I can't wait for the weather to break so I can pull this dress out of my Febreze hanging storage bag and wear it again.

Favorite Thing #90 - Vera Bradley Large Duffel

Since the holiday seasons are here and a lot of us will be doing traveling I thought I would share this favorite thing - Vera Bradley Large Duffel. I LOVE this bag! It's the perfect size for a weekend away. It has long handles and loads of room. It's also perfect as a carry on for your next flight. This also makes a great gift this holiday. There are so many great patterns. One of my favorites featured above is Cambridge.

Bag Dimensions - 22" x 11½" x 11½" – 15" strap drop

Suggested Retail Price: $80