Last week I made a mid-week getaway with my kids. Our summer has been hectic. What's new, right? It just felt like we needed a change of scenery. So, we quickly packed our bags and headed to Rehoboth Beach. Forty-eight hours later, we were home and feeling completely relaxed. Next week, Shruti is heading to the mountains with her family. No internet, no cell service, just the big wide open (she's absolutely NOT glamping). It's easy to get caught up in big summer vacation plans, but sometimes the little getaways reset and refresh us the most. One of the many things I love about Alexandria is how close we are to so many amazing destinations. The beach, the mountains, New York City, we have it all at our fingertips. So, the next time you feel like you need a break, pack your bags and head out - I promise you won't regret it!

Amy:  Mr. Boddington's Grandparent + Grandchild Pen Pal Kit is so special. Included are four back-and-forth flat cards, four unique letterhead sheets, and eight envelopes - everything needed to delightfully correspond between generations. An incredibly sweet gift for a grandchild or a grandparent that will become a treasured little time capsule. (Available at Penny Post, $32)

Adrien: I absolutely love a beach vacation! I grew up about three miles from the beach, so it feels like home to me. It's also the perfect opportunity to disconnect from the busyness and renew our focus on WELLNESS. Since new habits are more easily created when we are away from our normal environment, it turns out vacation is also an ideal time to ingrain wellness habits that will stick when you return. I like to revitalize my morning MOVEMENT routine by shifting it to the sand, and I intentionally set aside time to just PLAY with my family on the beach. And to make it a restful vacation, I guard my SLEEP time so that I can enjoy each day to its fullest! For best results, pick a small new habit and commit to it for the duration of your holiday - SMALL HABITS, BIG RESULTS!

Elizabeth: During Covid, I discovered the JW Anderson Loafer Mule, and I wasn't the only one; they quickly became the "it" shoe. I wish I could explain why I love them so much. Comfort, I guess. I have a pretty casual style, so I like the elevated ease of them. Well, now they come in sandal form, so I couldn't pass up an opportunity to order them for the store and myself. (Available at The Shoe Hive, $695)

Britt: I'm nearing the final stretch of my pregnancy, and I must shout out my angel and friend, Dr. Shara, for saving me! Shara's taping has helped tremendously on my swollen ankles. The tape can be used on any area with circulatory issues to help swelling and improve lymphatic drainage. For a soon-to-be-momma, this is a lifesaver! (Photography credit: @tinaleufotos)

Celthia: Not feeling a face full of makeup, but need to cover up a couple of spots? Try Jillian Dempsey's Spot Concealer. Yep, Dempsey, like Patrick Dempsey. Both husband and wife use this product as part of their daily routine to hide blemishes or even out under their eyes. It's super lightweight, with a dry matte finish that lets you blend in moisturizer or your daily SPF. No need for foundation, powder, or anything else. Apply it with your finger to spots you want covered, and you're good to go. A few readers who were in the store while we were writing this took some home to try - we can't wait to hear what they think! (Available at Bellacara, $32)