Julia's Weekly Whims, Vol 22.

Beach shoes, packing systems, and a pair of shorts I actually like.

We’re in Greece this week, moving from Paros to Mykonos tomorrow. It’s been a slower-paced trip in the best way. I’ve had more time to pay attention to what we’ve actually used and loved — what gets pulled from the suitcase and what goes untouched. That’s what this week’s list is made of: what’s been working, what’s surprised me, and what I’d pack again in a second.

1. Game Night, Table Edition
   This year, now that Goldie is three and a half, we can finally sit through a full meal as a family — a small but major shift. We swapped iPads for games a while back, and it’s made dinners so much more enjoyable. Our Greece lineup: Uno, paint-by-sticker books, mini magnatiles, a matching memory game, a compact coloring kit, and a bead set for quieter moments.

2. My Favorite Workout, Abroad
   I didn’t want to put a ton of pressure on myself to stick to consistent workouts on this trip, but a few days in, I craved it. I ended up doing a live ACE On Demand class — one of my favorites at home — and it made me feel like myself again. A dance-sculpt hybrid with the best energy.

3. A Summer Staple Dress
   Couper just launched their first namesake collection and it’s beautifully edited. I brought this dress and wore it to dinner in Naousa — it’s light, flattering, and easy to dress up with sandals and a bun.

4. Beach-Ready Jellies
   Many beaches in Greece are rocky, so I packed jelly shoes for the girls and me. I’ve been living in this pair from Ancient Greek — they’re comfortable and hold up well in the water. The girls each have Crocs, which get the job done.

5. Jewelry, Organized
   I filmed a video before we left Charleston showing how I pack jewelry, and I’ve never traveled more smoothly with accessories. These four organizers have made a huge difference, especially the roll bags for necklaces.

6. The Best Pouches for Your Carry-On
   I found some quilted organizer bags in San Miguel last month and they’ve been great for keeping my totes feel organized. These from Etsy are nearly identical. I keep one in my bag with tech essentials, and another with lip balm, Advil, and extras. You can shop everything I packed in my carry on here.

7. A Perfect Pair of Shorts
   Shorts are a hard sell for me — most just aren’t that flattering. This pair from Re/Done is the exception. They feel relaxed, and easy to wear with everything from tanks to button-downs.

8. Packing Cubes I Actually Use
   I rely on packing cubes to keep smaller pieces from disappearing into my suitcase. These from Cram are really great, and I use this lighter set for the girls. They help keep underwear, bras, socks, pajamas, scarves and sunglasses sorted without effort.

9. Pajamas Worth Repeating
   The only pajamas I brought are this Lake set — soft, breathable, and easy to wash. I rotate between the blue and green and wear them every morning with this La Ligne sweater while we make coffee and plan the day.

10. My Travel MVPs
    A few supplements and beauty staples that made the cut this trip:
    – Seed Daily Synbiotic — for gut health
    – Ritual Hyacera — for hydration and skin elasticity
    – ZIIP — for sculpting and de-puffing
    – Daily Aminos — to support recovery and energy
    – Creatine Gummies — for strength and stamina (especially after long walks or travel days)

xx Julia