Uncategorized Archives - Page 74 of 156

Let’s Check In

March 16, 2020

Let’s Check In

Corona, COVID-19, social distancing, health, hygiene, Florida

Dress || Sandals (similar) || Clutch || Earrings || Bracelet || Watch

Let’s check in with a serious question here. How are you guys doing? Things have gotten very intense all across the country and the reality is that it won’t get better any time soon. It seems like we’re in the middle of a social experiment a la Black Mirror. We are all in uncharted territory. Like everyone else, I have my own opinions on how to prepare for these trying times. Since I’m no where near qualified to share, I’ll keeping the bulk of them to myself. I can’t say what’s best for you and your loved ones, but I have a few thoughts that I think are universal. If you can’t take anymore health talk, you may want to quit reading here, but keep reading for some advice that actually applies 365 days a year.

Take a Deep Breath

Breath in and breath out. I think one of the most upsetting things about COVID-19 is that, as of right now, things are not in our control. The virus itself, I can’t control, but let’s take a moment to think about what I can. I have a moderate supply of food and essentials, being sure to save plenty at the stores for my neighbors. I can control where I go or don’t, which I will get to later. Most importantly, I can control my attitude. I deeply believe this is something to take seriously, but getting paranoid or angry won’t help anyone. Count your blessings, hopefully find a silver lining, and carry on.

Stay Informed with Legit Sources

Social media is such an amazing way to stay in touch, but it is a minefield of misleading or fear mongering content. At the end of the day, the information you should really be concerned about is what’s coming directly from your government officials (local, state, and federal), the Center for Disease Control, and the World Health Organization. For Floridians in particular, you may find the Florida Department of Health website to be helpful. Those click bait pieces are just going to be a distraction from what you truly need to know. Again, take a deep breath and use your best judgement.

Mind Your Hygiene

I am one more voice to remind you the importance of washing your hands and coughing into your sleeve. Strangely, I find it funny how many people consider this a novel idea. I mean, who wasn’t already doing this? But deep down, we all know about the rarity of hand washing. As I was telling my elementary students earlier this week, soap, warm water and 20 seconds is all it takes. If you’re going out, carry a small hand sanitizer and a few antibacterial wipes with you. Save the face masks for the professionals who actually need them for their job, whether in the medical or construction space. Oh yeah, and try not to touch your face!

Strongly Consider Social Distancing

This is where things get tricky. There are a lot of opinions on how to socially distance yourself. Although it’s not convenient and plans may be broken, this could be the critical piece of action. Over the weekend, the Washington Post published a very interesting and visual article that shows how we can ‘flatten the curve’. It greatly slows down the rate of infection and gives our health care system a fighting chance to serve the public. In many cities and states around the country, social distancing is no longer voluntary. With restaurants, museums, and the like closing, it’s a great opportunity to stay home and binge watch your favorite shows. I’ve still been going outside for a morning walk along the bay, but staying at least 6 feet away from my neighbors.

As a writer and blogger, I’ve been trying to make a difficult decision. What content do I share and what tone do I use? I hope to serve as a quick reprieve from this overwhelming trial we are currently in. Please know that when I share style and travel pieces, it’s not coming from a place that is taking this pandemic lightly. Over the next few days (and weeks) I will be publishing lighthearted pieces to give you hope for the future with trip idea and style inspiration. I also want to highlight my favorite local business because they will be needing as much love as they can get. Bear with me and we’ll get through the worst of it soon.

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

City Guide: Dunedin

March 13, 2020

City Guide: Dunedin

Top || Jeans || Loafers || Handbag || Earrings || Bracelet || Watch

Deep down, everyone loves their hometown, right? Revisiting home always brings up feelings of nostalgia and childhood memories. I’m lucky enough to live a short drive away from my hometown and it’s become a local hotspot in recent years. I’m talking about Dunedin. It’s the charming little town on the Gulf and it absolutely deserves a special trip. The other weekend, I convinced David to make a detour there while we were visiting my parents. Here’s what should absolutely be on your to-do list.

Book your stay at the Fenway Hotel.

Even though it’s a small town, there’s still way too much in Dunedin to cover in one day. That’s why I recommend booking a room for at least one night. Whatever you do, be sure to stay at the Fenway Hotel. Originally built in 1924, at the height of the roaring 20s, it fell in disrepair and was defunct for most of my childhood. It wasn’t until 2015, when the local Taoist Tai Chi Society purchased it, did it start to come back to life. Now, it’s back to its original glory as a luxury boutique hotel with sweeping views of the Gulf. Even if you just want to enjoy a sunset and cocktail, this is the spot that local and tourists alike flock to. Fun fact: There rooftop bar, the Hi-Fi, used to be the home to the area’s first radio station.

Florida, Dunedin, hometown, Gulf Coast, travel

Brewery hop around the town.

Dunedin has recently become a beer-lover’s Mecca. The town boasts seven breweries within a one-mile radius, plus several local loving tap houses. No trip is complete without visiting at least one. The most notable would have to be Dunedin Brewery. Apart from having the town’s namesake, it’s also the oldest continually running microbrewery in all of Florida. They have a long list of options, my favorite being the Apricot Peach Ale, and a hearty food menu to go with it. The other day we visited Caledonia Brewery for the first time and I was blown away by their selection. In reality, you can’t go wrong with any brewery you come across in Dunedin.

Have lunch at some of my favorite restaurants.

Some of my favorite restaurants in entire state of Florida call Dunedin home. My top pick would probably have to be Sea Sea Riders. It has been a town staple for over 30 years, serving Florida style seafood and fare. On the other end of the spectrum is Casa Tina, the spot to find authentic Mexican cuisine. Do I really need to say anything else? It was even voted the best Mexican restaurant in all of the Tampa Bay Area. I particularly love their Sunday Brunch, where I order the huevos rancheros and a fresh squeezed mimosa.

Soak up the sun on the Honeymoon Island.

Just a few minutes away from the sweet downtown area is the beach where I practically grew up. Honeymoon Island is a rare find in this part of Florida. Because it’s a state park, you won’t find overbuilt hotels, touristy restaurants, or the hoards of vacationers. Instead, it’s just a pristine strip of sand, leading to the Gulf of Mexico. Relax like the locals do. Pack a Publix Sub, a bag of chips, and ice tea to go. If you’re wanting to be served after a day in the sunshine, you can stop by Frenchy’s Outpost for a fresh grouper sandwich and boat drink. I highly recommend the smoked fish dip, a Gulf Coast delicacy.

For a population of just over 36,0000 people, I’m only scratching the surface. I haven’t even mentioned the other seasonal attractions that make Dunedin so special. They have one of the biggest Mardi Gras parades in South Florida, a minor league baseball team with a beautiful new stadium, and celebrates the Highlander Games to keep in touch with their Scottish history. Whatever you’re pleasure, Dunedin has something to offer you and more.

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.

Spring Pieces Under $50

March 12, 2020

Spring Pieces Under $50

Dress || Wedges || Handbag (similar) || Earrings || Bracelet || Watch

Seriously, who doesn’t love a good deal? Especially with the start of a new season, it’s a great excuse to fill your closet with new pieces, colors, and silhouettes. When it comes to shopping on a budget, I’ve been known to check H&M first, but recently Target has been absolutely winning the Spring season. Every time I walk in or peek online, I see at least a handful of things I want, no need, to add to my wardrobe. While you really can’t go wrong with any of them, here are some of my favoring spring pieces for under $50.

Tiered Midi Dress

I’ve already worn this dress a few times over the past few weeks and I get compliments each time. The style is very boho, but is made sweet with the ruffling detail. Better yet, it has pockets! I bought and simply love the bright teal color, but there are four others to choose from. You really can’t go wrong with a bright white. It could potentially be my next purchase!

White Faux-Wrap Top

It think it’s always important to have a great white blouse in your rotation. I’m talking about the kind of top that works with pair of pants and can go from work to date night in an instant. This blouse perfectly fits the bill! My favorite detail is the Swiss-dot fabric. It instantly elevates a simple top and makes it just a little bit more formal.

Rattan Loafers

For Christmas, I received a pair of rattan loafers that I wear constantly. I was seriously surprised just how comfortable they are. They still look brand new, but I know someday they’ll start showing their wear. That means I’ve been on the hunt for a new pair of rattan shoes that’s not going to break the bank. These loafers, for under $30, are spot on to what I’ve been looking for. Speaking from past experience, all of my shoes from Target have been some of the most comfortable I’ve owned. This may be my best opportunity to stock up on rattan loafers and have them for years to come.

Raffia Statement Earrings

This final favorite is by far the most budget friendly of them all! I seriously love statement earrings, but the thought of having them way down and pull my lobes is the worst! That means raffia and other light materials will be my friend. When I picked up this pair of earrings, they felt as light as a feather. More importantly, they work with nearly everything in my closet. I’ve worn them is excess with no sign of slowing down.

With stores like Target really bringing the Spring style trends, it just seems silly to break the bank anymore. To see all of my favorite pieces under $50, be sure to look below. As always, happy shopping!

Love from Florida,
Katie

As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.