Packing Tips and Tricks

I absolutely love preparing for trips! Basically all of the things others hate about trips I love; from packing to going to the airport, they're all my favorite. I have to pack early for my upcoming NYC trip because of work so therefore all of my preparations are going to happen today. Here are a few tips I'm using while I pack.

1. Hang what you don't want to sit in the luggage. I'm bringing a lot of dresses and I don't want them to be wrinkled so instead of packing them now and letting them sit, I've grouped them together in my closet and will pack them the day I'm leaving.
2. Remember your 3's. The last time I flew they took my toothpaste because I forgot the three ounces rule. I pack all my toiletries, hair brush, hair clips, everything in the front zipper. Don't forget to put them in a plastic zip bag, I've also had that happen. 
3. A bag within a bag. You can carry on two bags. One is the carry on/overhead compartment bag, and instead of having the other be your purse put your purse in another bag. My purse is a small cross body so I put it in a larger cute bag. (I use a cute reusable grocery bag, shh). 
4. Wear your largest Jacket. Even if it's hot outside, bringing your jacket with you on the plane will save space in your luggage. Just remember to take it with you when you leave!
5. Occupy yourself. Even a few hours can seem pretty long if you are sitting unoccupied. Don't forget to pack a book, or notebook to keep your time moving faster. You could even plan some of your smaller itinerary items for the ride, or see what phone apps would be of use.

I'm so excited for New York! Another aspect I can't wait to try is hairstyles form A Cup of Joe, so great. Especially these 1, 2.

Let's hear it for New York!

I've been waiting to say anything until it was final, but I'm going to New York! And I get to go with my best friend. I couldn't be more excited. It will be a week in the beautiful city filled with the typical tourist attractions, but also hoping to visit some "off the path" local places. We booked our flight and hotel and tried to figure out some of the places we can go to. If anyone knows of the places we must go to please don't hesitate to tell! I love traveling and this is one of the most exciting places to visit, I couldn't be more excited!

Wow, the subway looks confusing on a map!

All images from pinterest

Giraffes and Fish and an Owl, oh my

The zoo is one of my favorite places in my home town to go. It has 

so many different animals.It even has an owl! I had never seen one 

that close before; he was so beautiful. They rescued him from the wild.

Owls and giraffes are my favorite! I only got to see the giraffes

for a second though before they were distracted by the kayaks.

The little guy on the left kept running away every time I tried 

to take a picture. I think he knew I didn't have food for him.

These were lining the bridge on our way to the giraffes. Don't 

they make you want to paint?

Thrift Store Finds

An item from my list has been checked off, but more on that a little later. My first gem I found was a home made maxi dress from the 60's. I didn't take a full length picture but hopefully that will come later.

My second piece is the one I'm most excited about. I have been in search of a jean shirt/jacket for months and I have finally found one. It was sitting sideways on top of all the other clothes too, as if it were meant for me.

I absolutely love mugs and I found a new one to add to my collection. There are a few cracks on the rim of the mug so I think I'm going to use it as a pencil holder. 

   Lastly I found an entire bag of different colored thread for only 99 cents. 

   How can you pass that up?

What lovely gems have you found recently?