This time next week I will already be back from my whirlwind trip to Alaska. I'm visiting my oldest and dearest friend, E. She moved to Alaska a little over a year ago and I just knew I had to visit. It's been way too long since we've been together and I've been in a ridiculous packing planning frenzy for this trip. I keep asking myself the same question over and over again. How to Pack for Alaska? It is all about the layers. The weather in June is often rainy and temps can dip into the 50s during the days or reach the low 70s and be sunny. It varies from day to day. Layers are key to packing and taking in the sights. Also, when I land at what is typically my bedtime I will not just be five hours behind my normal time zone but also it will still be light outside. The sun will … [Read more...]
Why You Should Work Out When You Travel
Holiday travel. Spring Break. Summer Vacation. Weekend Getaways. All times that you should remember to continue to work out when you travel. It's so easy to just say that when you travel for work you don't have time to work out. OK, sometimes that is the case. It's even easier to blow off your fitness while on vacation. I mean, you are there for R&R, not burpees, right? Except this. Here's why along with a few tips on what to pack and how I stay fit when I travel. While you can't see it, I'm wearing a black cowlneck sweatshirt, my black converse kicks and some killer Kyodan army green leggings I found at TJ Maxx for a total deal. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! An InLinkz Link-up Linking up with Mix It Mondays /The Pleated Poppy/Style Elixir/Style … [Read more...]
My Carry On Essentials
It's that time of year again. Holiday travel and that means my carry on essentials are at the ready. And you know I am all about organization. Here's what I like to pack and why. There's a lot of stuff that gets packed into my foldable (love!) Tory Burch 'Packable Ella Tote' carry on. I like to keep smaller items in pouches so that I can grab what I need and not have to deal with a bunch of loose pieces. My wallet, antique pocket watches and a pen are necessities. I also pack a soft pashmina style scarf to keep me warm wherever I go. They double nicely as a blanket on planes too. Details This gold wristlet originally held my Dr. Scholls foldable flats but I don't wear them that much anymore when traveling so instead I pack all my rolled up cords. It has pockets inside that … [Read more...]
How to Pack for Disney
Disney 2012. Source: Victoria Mason Traveling to Disney involves a lot of details. From booking a hotel near Disney to packing your things, there are a lot to think about. I still remember the agony of planning our first trip. Then I clued into the fact that using a travel advisor was one of the best ideas I have ever had and free! Being sent a copy of The Complete Walt Disney World 2017 was just icing on the cake. How to pack for Disney is a whole other deal. Especially for me, Little Ms. I Want to Be Comfortable and Look Good Too. I decided to tackle the task by using my closet and Maven to figure out my best looks and stay organized. I still follow the color palette rule and other 'how-to pack' plans as well. What's Maven? With Maven, I don't just create a board and am … [Read more...]
5 Road Trip Essentials
Source: ChickDriven.com Did you know that over 65% of families will go on UK road trips this summer? That's right! We can't resist the call of the open road, beaches, lakes and forests once the weather turns warm. Taking a road trip, big or small, takes preparation. Inspecting your vehicle is one of the most important things you need to do. If there are small chips or cracks on your windshield, you may want to schedule a windshield calibration, windshield repair or car windshield replacement before you go on a road trip. Ruby Davis, founder of ChickDriven.com has put together a list of her five favorite road trip essentials for whenever she embarks on a road trip. A Phone Charger. One little device will help keep you safe, happy and juiced up your whole trip. Ruby recommends … [Read more...]
Daytripping at National Harbor
Sometimes you just need to get away, even if it is just for a day. My day to day life of working on the blog, with H and our real estate business, taking care of three kids and all that those kiddos entails is no easy feat. Throw in the fact that sometimes I need to sleep, eat and maybe get a little exercise in so I can handle all those above mentioned things and I can be one burned out woman. I needed an escape from the norm. I needed to soak in some sights, good food, and a bit of relaxation. There was only one place to go. Source: Victoria Mason The National Harbor and the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center. Located on the Potomac River it is a gorgeous mix of restaurants, shops, outdoor spaces to play, dream and while away the day. If you are local you know … [Read more...]
Must Have Summer Car Items
Summer is going to be here! The kids are out of school soon and it’s time to start planning your family’s agenda for the months ahead. I spoke with Cars.com senior editor Jennifer Newman (also a mother of two) and she offered up some tips on how to get your car ready for summer travel. Whether it’s longer family road trips or driving to and from day camps, parks and soccer games, you’ll be spending a lot more time in your car. Cars.com senior editor Jennifer Newman recommends some useful items to stock your car with to ensure your family’s car is summer ready. The 'It' List First-aid kit: Scrapes, cuts and plenty of tears are marks of summer. A well-stocked first-aid kit ensures that a boo-boo won't bring an early end to a day at the beach or playground. Towels: Throw a couple … [Read more...]
Summer Travel Essentials
School's out! It's Summertime! Summer travel has officially begun and with the July 4th weekend right around the corner it is time to start thinking about packing. Whether you are traveling by train, plane or automobile (I'll be cruising down the highway with a 100lb. Doberman as one of my traveling companions. I think that is a separate blog post in itself.) you are going to need to pack and probably do it lightly. When I have to take a bag for make-up and a bag for toiletries I get cranky. I love my stuff but I don't like hauling it. Neither do the airlines. Instead I've found a few tried and true products that make packing fast and easy while still being able to look good while I travel. TSA Travel Goodies by victoriamason featuring Josie Maran Burt's Bees … [Read more...]
Thanksgiving Threads
A lot of us travel during Thanksgiving, that's no joke. I still flinch when I think of some the grand times I spent in many of the East Coasts finest airports back in college. Even back then I liked to dress for travel while still knowing that comfort was key. Whether it is by train, plane or automobile these two looks are guaranteed to keep you looking your most polished and comfortable too. I'm wearing both this week while we spend time with friends and family. Travel Outfit by victoriamason featuring a stud earring set Forever21 Striped Knit Sweater (similar)/Black boots (similar)(similar)/Jeans/Kate Spade Pearl Studs/Essie Nail Polish (similar) Travel Outfit by victoriamason featuring a travel outfit JCrew Chambray Shirt/Black Skinny Jeans … [Read more...]
Fresh Not Frumpy
We all have those times when life calls us away. We pack our suitcase and carry on with care but often overlook what I call my "travel" outfit. For me, I need it to be not just comfortable but also wear well and probably pull a second shift later in the day or during the time I am away. Blazers and scarves are high on my list. So are skinny jeans and a pair of flats. That's why this week's best look of the link up goes to Joanna from Coastal Closet for her "have style, will travel" look that exudes total comfort while maintaining a look that is effortlessly chic. … [Read more...]