I am embracing the month of April with a warm hug as daffodils start to bloom in my backyard! It can only get brighter and warmer from now on. Last month I began writing a list of things I'm looking forward to and because it's been a month—I thought what better time to revisit and reflect on things that have made me happy and what I'm looking forward to in the weeks to come. If there's anything I've learned throughout the dead of winter, it's that you have to be able to fill up your own cup and use any bit of joy to get you through.
Admittedly life has been busy- but I will also admit that it's been hard to maintain a cadence with my blog as I'm actually exhausted from working that the last thing I want to do is open my computer. However, you may have noticed a little update to my blog...if you've been here awhile that is. A cheeky blog update was needed and I hope you like my new logo! And it just so happens that on this Sunday, I felt inspired to write. So here we are. And here is my monthly happy list. (There may be some repeats from last month but who cares?).
April Happy List
- Lighter clothing
- Pastel colors
- The jelly beans on my counter
- Checking things off the apartment list
- Going to the Bulls game for the first time
- Visiting the grocery store on top of the Hancock (so overpriced)
- Spending a day in Milwaukee
- Going grocery shopping
- Starbucks Cold Brew
- Bright neon pink
- Lavender nail polish
- The "everything" shower
- Getting into golf (whaaat)
- Drink Master series on Netflix
- Sunny walks with Coop
- Trying out pilates
- Playing chess and cribbage
- Ellie Goulding's new "Higher than Heaven" album
- Giving pieces of my sumo oranges to my parents (lol)
- Listening to my podcasts on my morning commute
- The freshly picked daffodils on my book shelf
- Colleen Hoover books (I know I know)
- Getting my hair freshly dyed and cut
- Playing open gym volleyball
- Thrifting for summer clothes
- Filling out my weekly planner
- Spring cleaning out my closet
- Presenting on behalf of Golin at PRSSA events
- My Sweet Green lunches in the office
- Getting a perfect workout week on my Activity Tracker
- My weekend to-do's
- Wood-fire pizza
These lists have actually been a great practice of gratitude for me. Sometimes I don't even remember half the stuff I did in a month so it's nice to sit back and think about all the things I experienced.
It also grounds me a bit because while there could be many more things to add to this list (or this list could look very different)—I'm at ease because my life is filled with many happy things, and things to be appreciative for.
I can't believe it's March. Even though it's still "fake spring" yesterday was a sunny, 50 degree day and that is something to smile about! Speaking of things to smile about, lately I've gotten into the habit of listing out things that make me happy.
I know I know, as elementary and silly as it sounds, I find that there's something special in each and every day—even on the not-so-good days. Or even just the every day mundane days. A habit I used to have was to write one small thing down on a sticky note that brought me joy, big or small. For example, a good chai latte or meeting a running goal or even just waking up earlier than I did the day before. I would scrunch up these notes and throw them in a jar until I needed a little boost to remind me there are many things to be grateful for.
Maybe this will be a boost for you, but if not, that's okay! I think we could all use a daily boost no matter what's happening around us. But now I've been using the Notes app in my phone to add things to my list. Also, disclaimer but a lot of these are food items...but hey, food makes me happy :) Here is my monthly happy list:
March Happy List
- Golden retrievers (Coop)
- Doing work at the library
- A fresh haircut
- (Fake) Spring days
- Ice water at 3am
- Getting a really good performance review at work
- Gretchen Geraghty vlogs
- Croissant donuts
- Sweet cream cold brew
- Sunshine
- Birds chirping
- Clean cars
- Fresh cut flowers
- Changing the color face on my watch
- Filling out my weekly planner
- Lemon mint candles
- Coffee dates
- My loved ones <3
- Snuggles
- Cozy fluffy blankets
- Cooking dinner with my love
- Bonfires
- My overpriced Stanley cup
- Yummy hand lotion
- A warm hoodie out of the dryer
- TJ Maxx
- Chocolate covered cherries/strawberries
- Soothing train rides
- Red wine
- My favorite pearl earrings
- Mental health podcasts
- Yoga
- Trader Joe’s
- Blogging & writing
- Olipop & Poppi
- Being active and playing sports (softball, golf, volleyball)
- Apartment planning
- Calm and slow mornings
- Bonfires
- Looking at old pictures
- My nightly skincare
- Eating a homemade meal
- Sumo oranges
- Really fuzzy socks
- Grocery strolls
- Crisp book pages
- Freshly painted nails
- Putting on my favorite perfume (Chloe Nomade)
- My receptionist Denise who always brightens my day
Even if you don't write these down, taking a mental note at the end of the day is always a great way to ground yourself and remember what truly matters- okay so maybe not croissant donuts -BUT it's about the little joys just as much as the big ones. We need to toot our own horns sometimes! Life can be tough, life can get monotonous (especially when it's freezing out), so let's not forget about the things that keep us going. Keep us feeling alive. Keep us waking up every day and putting a smile on our faces. What's on your happy list this month?
I've also had days where—Sunday scaries are real—but I'll also get so much done on Sunday and be so productive with working out, chores, errands, and resetting everything that by the end of the night I'm worn out and haven't actually relaxed so then my headspace is flooded with anxiety about the day to come. My mind ebbs and flows and even mid-afternoons I'll get very overwhelmed with how I want to spend my Sunday and I've just decided that Sundays are sacred to me.
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But they also aren't. Sundays are probably my least favorite day of the week because I find myself in dread of Monday. But then Monday turns out to be not so bad after all. Because who loves Mondays?
As much as I plan out my week days, I also plan out my weekends. Balancing social events and going out with friends to playing open gym volleyball with Ben or doing chores—I try to make a list of things to do so that I do feel like I can balance everything and tackle what needs to get done that didn't during the week. Even if it's as little as getting my nails done or taking some clothes to Goodwill, I plan out my errands and it also gives me something to look forward to as mundane as these tasks may be.
I like to be busy. I'm always on the go and being productive makes me able to relax soundly, but I've also come to the realization that there will always be dishes to clean, laundry to wash, books to read, etc. So sometimes I get so overwhelmed for no reason because I can't sit still and just relax. Even blogging for example has been a part of my evening Sunday ritual.
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I definitely think I am a weekend warrior at best because during the week I am locked in on work and just want to go to the gym, eat a nutritious meal, and watch Netflix and go to bed. Side note: I have been loving Gretchen Geraghty's vlogs on YouTube lately. They're the perfect dose of serotonin and all things happiness (she has a golden named Brody so I am obviously a big fan at this point)! I guess that's reality but leaning into the small joys during my days also make them go by quicker and give me things to look forward to like making a quick coffee run or doing work from home with a friend.
Having a wind down routine is essential. There are so many things happening in our lives that I think we forget to take time to just let go and reset. Whether it does mean being lazy or getting your nails done or reading a book or watching a show or taking a much needed nap. Life is meant to be enjoyed and I don't ever what to feel soul sucked or over worked. I think it all just comes with balance of filling up your life with things you love. Winding down doesn't mean shutting off, it just means we're preparing ourselves to bounce back up again.
January is always the month that I get on top of things: my work, my schedule, my sleep, my fitness, my organization, you name it. And lately having a cadence of things to do has kept me right on top of things. Between working from home, keeping social, and taking care of me—all of these things come through balance, prioritizing, and also respecting my own boundaries because ya girl's got things to do!
I thought I'd share some quick tips on how I keep my life in order and also promote daily productivity—mindful productivity—that keeps me from burning myself out. A lot of it has just become first nature habits (and part of my homebody, type-A personality) so find what works best for you.
01. Having a dedicated work space has been a dream, but for now, I have my long-time makeshift vanity turn desk and I have really outfitted my workspace with all of the tech tools I could need. I recently upgraded to having a laptop stand, wireless key board and mouse, as well as a phone stand which is a true game changer. I also love having the keyboard and elevated computer so I'm not straining my neck all day. I also have my weekly desk planner, a daily planner, and my master planner (who could need that many planners?). All of these things help me stay on top of appointments, meetings, workouts, and planning my to-dos for the week. The next update I think I'll make is a more comfortable desk chair.
02. I find key stationary staples that I love to help me stay organized and I always feel like aesthetic stationary just pulls everything together, while making planning a bit more fun. Whether it be rose gold scissors, choosing a new Staedler pen color of the week—it's the little things right? It also just makes goal setting something I look forward to every Sunday.
03. Going to bed early has been a challenge, but more recently waking up earlier is even harder for me. Something I have started doing is romanticizing my morning routine even when I work from home. Whether it be setting out an outfit, looking forward to a morning walk or cup of coffee, or even securing a spot to work for the morning at a coffee shop or my library. I've been trying to wake up between 6-6:30 to readjust my circadian rhythm and not be kicking myself in the morning for hitting snooze.
04. I have always been consistent with fitness or staying active for at least 30 minutes a day. And walking Cooper only helps me during the day so I can get some fresh air and take a breather. I've seen everyone with the walking pads and treadmills while they work but that's just not realistic for me. So, every day I will plan to go to the gym or workout class to dedicate at least an hour to myself. I've really tried to be a morning workout person, but I think walking better suits my routine...it's just hard when it's 30 degrees.
05. Going out and about on my weekends or weekday evenings keeps me inspired. Since I do stay indoors most of my time to work, I have been taking up some new hobbies like playing intramural volleyball, getting back into blogging, watching Masterclass videos, trying new foods/recipes/restaurants, or taking myself on "mini adventures" to new parts of town or shops. Rather than doom scrolling on social media, I want to invest my time in more mindful and inspirational activities or habits.
06. For anyone working from home who tends to get in a "funk" or can sometimes feel cooped up, I would recommend changing up your scenery if you can! My sister actually apartment sat in LA for a friend one month and it totally helped with her ability to feel more inspired and less cooped up during the cold Chicago winter. Even if it means finding a new coffee shop, work buddy, or going into the office once or twice a week—I've looked forward to changes in my routine that spice things up a bit. The beauty of working from home is that you can practically work from anywhere, so why not take advantage of it?
This month for all is the month to get back on track and into the swing of things. But I find that keeping to a routine that balances everything, most importantly taking care of yourself, makes me feel the most productive and less burnt out each week. What are some habits you employ to stay on top of things?
It's already the middle of January but it's felt like the holidays were an entire year ago. HA. Dad puns aside, going into 2023 was smooth and a very necessary reset for me. Thankfully I had a week off from work to spend with my grandparents in Iowa, binge watch Game of Thrones, and eat really good food. Getting back into my routine: starting work back up again, working out, eating healthier food, and better sleeping habits have all been my focus lately.
With the occasional outings with friends, I would say that I am just a true homebody and I'm okay with it. I know that there are always going to be good things to look forward to and I'm ready for what's next! As I'm thinking about this year and what I want to accomplish (sans resolutions or fake diets), I am relishing in gratitude and being more present in life.
01. Being more intentional with my time is a big habit I want to start this year. I've always been good about setting my goals and working towards things I'm passionate about but I don't want to get too comfortable. Whether it be waking up a bit early, being consistent with my workouts, not doom scrolling on my phone but reading a book instead, or getting coffee with a friend. Or how about—writing for this blog! This blog has always grounded me back into what I love and has kept me inspired for years. It's just a hobby, but something I've created. Pretty cool if you ask me. And I have no plans of letting it go.
02. Trip planning and travel this year is still up in the air, I'm not quite sure if that means going abroad again or finding somewhere new to visit nationally. I would love to go to a new national park or somewhere very scenic this summer but I'm also down for more weekend road trips and spontaneous adventures too. Colorado maybe? San Diego? Camping is definitely on my list!
03. I love learning, and when I graduated, I felt like I lost a wealth of knowledge about a ton of different subjects and classes I was pretty invested in. Of course, I learn a lot in my job and the research that I do every day, but it's different when you're not studying or writing papers and are really tackling or analyzing niche topics like environmental studies or memorizing a language. My boyfriend got me a subscription to Master Class for Christmas and it is this library of classes taught by professionals and public figures on a plethora of different subjects like cooking, dog training, voice acting, yoga, but my personal favorite thus far has been flower arranging. I am really looking forward to learning new things but just being inspired and motivated to try new things.
04. And in terms of being inspired by new things, I've felt the need to find little positives in the every day mundane. When life feels stagnant or uninspiring, I definitely try to remember what I'm thankful for but romanticize parts of my day like making my morning coffee, walking my dog, or doing my hair and getting ready for the day even if I'm just working at home. Even if it means snuggling up with my book for 30 minutes or calling a friend I haven't talked to—there are many ways I can find joy in the little things of my day rather than feeling the weight and monotony of a five day work week...as most of us do.
05. Intuitive and intentional eating has been a focus of mine for a few months now but I am really the victim of late night snacking and indulging myself when it comes to curbing a craving. I think I've always had a really good relationship with food, but I think I would like to focus on fueling my body enough during the day that I'm not reaching for a bag of chips or maybe just eating an orange before a big meal to hold me over. That means more protein and fiber packed meals. It also doesn't help that my mom leaves candy out in bowls and baskets all the time...self control, self control...
Latching onto any sunny days I can this month, I am definitely manifesting spring to arrive as soon as it can but know that there are definitely snowy days ahead. Cultivating new ways to get inspired is on my radar—and yes, I can buy myself flowers (Miley go off!) in the middle of January.
I feel like my blog might be becoming a "TikTok made me buy it" advert, but honestly...that app has influenced me so much in these past couple of months so I would be lying if I said most if not all were inspired by creators who have shared some of these products. However, the more and more I hear some of my friends loving and using them I just had to see what the hype was all about—and for any of you last minute Christmas shoppers looking for some ideas for someone who loves to be cozy, indulges themself in self care, well, I've got some inspo for ya!
Stanley IceFlow Stainless Steel Tumbler- Okay okay, don't tell my mother I bought another emotional support water bottle, but I must say I am just in love with this Stanley cup. I've seen the massive ones with the large grips and the straws but this one with the handle is just so...handy! I also love the sip straw for easy access and I can close it so it doesn't spill when I'm at the gym or honestly taking it anywhere. It has also motivated me to drink more water because it's just so easy to sip and go. I love the variety of different colors but this one is just a classic and goes with anything!
Olaplex Bond Maintenance Shampoo and Conditioner- My hair game in the winter is not on par with when I normally get it done in the spring/early summer so I was in need of some good repairing shampoo and conditioner. I've heard mixed reviews and advice on not using Olaplex every day, so I have used it sparingly and I have to say I've noticed a difference in shine and texture while using these.
Sol de Janeiro Jet Set- If you wanna smell like a warm cookie then I recommend any or all of the Sol de Janeiro products. I am obsessed with the body spray and the Bum Bum cream and gel. They just leave me smelling so sweet and I wouldn't want it any other way.
Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Oil- Lathering up is normally my regime for winter, but less is more! I have been loving this marula oil out of the Drunk Elephant travel size kit and feel like it has been really hydrating my face without being overbearing as the weather changes. I will sometimes layer it with a light moisturizer but other than that this has been my go-to nightly hydrating ritual!
Pacifica Undereye Vitamin C Spot Serum Mask- I always forget to take care of my undereyes and because it is so dark out in the morning and in the afternoon, my body is responding heavily to the season...so is my mood. So, I've been trying out Vitamin C serums and this mask is perfect for early mornings or even midday when I just need a quick refresh of my face. I also throw these in the fridge!
Laneige Water Sleeping Mask- My lightweight moisturizer as of late has been this one! After I put on my serums, I will swipe a layer of this mask to absorb and lock in all of the hydration into my face. I love the subtle scent and I feel like my skin just wakes up all glowy and bouncy in the morning.
OPI Nail Polish in You Don't Know Jacques!- Brown is the color of the season. I've been seeing brown nails to and fro so I just had to pick up a shade and try it for myself! I am loving the warm hue on my nails...I just wish I liked the look of acrylics, but my bank account thanks me for it.
As we gear up towards the holiday, I've been grounding myself in self-care, relaxing, and soaking up the end of 2022 by giving myself peace. Doing things for myself has made me a better version of myself for others and taking care of me has been a top priority. Give yourself some grace this season and dedicate some time to focus on YOU. Or give the gift of self-love to someone else this holiday!
Alright, I confess. I am on the Drunk Elephant skincare train and I just had to try out The Littles Set to see for myself what the hype is all about. If you are not new here, you have probably been along the ride for my fluctuating skincare must-haves and regimes. I have never gotten into a routine that works for me when it comes to my dry/acne prone and sensitive skin.
Now that I am just starting to use this, I can't say I can give a full in-depth and authentic review of the products and how they react with my skin but I will say none of them so far have irritated my skin or caused more breakouts, so—that's a win! But, I will give you my first impressions on each of the products!
For the Day...
C-Firma Fresh Day Serum- I was never keen on serums. Especially in the mornings when I would want to have a clean and refreshed face. I found that some serums were too think or slimy. This serum, however, firms my face immediately after I apply it without leaving a sticky residue. I've also noticed my face just lifts up and I feel awake and refreshed! We'll see how it goes in the next couple of uses. It also comes with a part two in powder form and I have never mixed a powder and a serum, but I'm just going to trust the process!
Umbra Sheer Physical Daily Defense SPF 30- So, I will be honest. I only swiped this once and immediately regretted it because 1) it's winter and 2) it was sticky! I don't know about you, but I am never a fan of the gluey SPF film that's left after you goop up. Maybe I need to give this another go, but I haven't really felt like I need this step (although I know skincare specialists are tsk tsking at me right now because I know sun care is important!).
For the Evening...
Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil- Another really hydrating serum that I also feel really helps with some of my appearing facial lines. I've never felt the need to have anti-aging products in my routine, but if it helps then I will give it a go.
T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum- I feel very bougie using all of these serums and oils, I have to admit. I think what I love the most about this serum is that it helps relieve the look of pores on my skin. I also love that I can mix it with the facial oil and just make a skincare potion to restore my skin barrier overnight. I will say, the full-size product is very pricey...I wonder if there's a dupe...there's probably a dupe in all honesty.
Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser- Okay to be honest, I haven't given this cleanser a go quite yet- I'm finishing up my CeraVe Foaming Cleanser :)
Protini Polypeptide Cream- By far one of my favorite moisturizers I've ever used. My skin gets very dry during the cold months and I would resort to using Gold Bond to lather my entire face...which I soon realized was over hydrating my skin barrier and wouldn't solve my dry skin patches in the long run. This cream is light and gel-like. I've also felt like it's helped level my skin's texture and bumpiness in areas I've had scaring from acne.
Have you tried Drunk Elephant products? Or have found dupes for any of these?
I didn't know what to expect at this point in my life. At age 23, with a full-time job and a college degree. I think it's safe to say that nobody looks past college, let alone getting their first job out of college. I always pictured my life in solid milestones. With a solid structure and moments to look forward to—I was set in the zone. And the in between moments filled themselves out...birthdays, parties, extracurricular events, holidays and everything else.
Now that I've been home for a hot minute, re-evaluating my personal goals and the path I want to look forward to—I have to admit, it all seems very daunting. I doom scroll through TikTok to see 20 somethings creating a life for themselves in a one-bedroom walkup apartment in the city, making luxe Trader Joes dinners, lathering themselves in expensive skincare, and spoofing up their neutral and lush memory foam beds. The lives 20 something year-olds yearn for is a lot similar to the freedom and independence I want without having to face it all alone...or face it all in fear that I might not be able to achieve the "dream life" I was envisioning for myself post grad.
Getting caught up in the trap of comparison is a toxic and vicious cycle for me. It's hard not to shy away from others around you pursuing their dreams and their goals when you're absolutely confused about what's to come next. I'm sure they didn't have a plan. I'm sure they were just as intimidated by the idea. Who knows how much rent they pay. Who knows what they had to leave behind in order to achieve it.
I definitely find myself getting lost in the weeds with wanting a specific type of lifestyle—I think it has to do with needing some form of "perfection" that I can't seem to find in my every day life at the moment. This "perfection" might also be masked by the idea of "normalcy". That maybe having too perfect of a life just isn't what I want. I've become too comfortable at home and this has ignited my internal rebellion against it all saying f*ck it let's just move out and do what we want already.
And that's when I have to ground myself back in this idea of abundance. That all and everything I could hope for is out there for me. And all that I could ever need is already right in front of me. Seeing that my life is in abundance means having an appreciation of life in its fullness: joy, laughter, friends, family, health, shelter, food, strength, and everything else. Even for bad things—that mold and evolve me into who I am.
Some chapters just aren't read aloud.
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Gratitude has a new meaning for me. Not just a simple appreciation for the things I have, but an acknowledgement that my current situation is temporary. My life is temporary. Nothing is permanent. My living situation is not permanent. My job is not permanent. It all could change.
And with this new lens, comes a great overwhelm of maintaining and holding onto the joys I have in life. Not feeling responsible for any other person's happiness but my own. Rooting myself into the small things that make me feel whole.
Some tried and true, some new! Ever since I started blogging years ago, I always enjoyed rounding up my favorite products, happenings, and experiences to share with all of you. And even just to look back upon to see what I was into at that certain time.
My taste and style hasn't changed too much but I would say it's evolving nonetheless. TikTok has been a big influencer of that lately but some of it is just my own wonder for trying new things. A mish-mosh of beauty and lifestyle products—here's a snapshot of what I've been loving recently!
Yves Saint Laurent Libre — I never thought I was really into floral scents, especially because I despise rose. However, warm and muskier perfumes are just my jam recently. This one has notes of lavender and orange blossom which aren't as poignant. I use this almost daily and I need to slow down a bit with it. My go-to scent at the moment and it won't disappoint. The perfect gift for her, too!
Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer — I have gone through as many BB creams and tinted moisturizers as I could think of and I was never really loving any of them. Since I don't wear makeup every day, and don't prefer the full coverage feel, I have always just wanted something light and natural. Nars has never let me down. This tinted moisturizer is the only foundation I ever reach for and it can't be beat in my book.
Eyebrow Things — My eyebrow journey has come a long way. I think one of the biggest game changers has been Tweezerman tweezers that I have been obsessed with. There are no other tweezers that are as sharp or as precise. I have also been setting my brows with the Benefit 24 Hr Brow Setter which I am pleased has not made my brows sticky but keep them in place all day long.
Podcasts — I know so many people who rave over their podcasts, but I have never really had the time to invest into listening. The same with reading lately. But the latter is much easier than sitting down and opening pages, so I took to start listening to one that I find meaningful to my every day life (as opposed to all of the true crime or gossip banter out there)— Let's Talk About Mental Health. Jeremy Godwin goes through different mental health struggles or topics and I've been invested in his episodes when I walk on the treadmill. That and listening to my daily Leo Today horoscope of course. New perspectives, open ears, open mind. It's been a daily ritual.
Staedtler Pens — Even during college, these have been my beloved writing utensils. Especially for planning and organizing my week, I love a good colored pen. These are really fine tipped and I love all of the color options.
Rifle Paper Co. Calendars— Every year for Christmas I ask for a calendar. And no matter what, it's usually one from Rifle. I love that they can be time tables and wall art at the same time. I even cut off the bottom of the calendar to keep the art rotating year round as I please! They're always so creative and I am always willing to spend a little extra on these because they're just so pretty to look at.
Room & Pillow Mists — I always have some sort of room spray or pillow mist on hand. Maybe growing up and having them in the house influenced that or just wanting to always have a good smelling space. I was into essential oils for a little bit but their scent can be a bit too strong at times. I've been using this Hearth & Hand zest room spray and it brings the perfect citrus and freshness to my room. On days I don't burn candles, this is what I have been loving lately.
That's a wrap for now! It's all about the little things that bring joy and I believe that enhancing your space and your routine make for a more wholesome way of living. No—you don't need a room spray or a new perfume, but sometimes investing in yourself and your favorite things make life a bit more joyful.
There's nothing I love more than a fall getaway up north. Especially if it means getting away from Halloweekend shenanigans. I'm sorry not sorry, but the holiday just isn't my jam. If there's anything I've learned from experiencing it through the years—I would much rather be snuggled up, watching Halloween movies, drinking a glass of wine. And so we did. Ben and I made our way up north for a cozy cabin we found in Narrow Lake on Airbnb. With the colors still lasting, the smell of wet and burning leaves, and anticipating that lake view we obsess over—we knew we had to squeeze the last bit of fall this month before winter comes.
Day 1
The cabin itself was quaint and newly renovated. I always envision wood—just lots and lots of wood. For optimal cozy fall vibes, there's nothing better than a log cabin. Perfect for two of us.
We definitely wanted to cook while we were there and make the most of the fully stocked kitchen—we brought wine, steaks, and made french toast and coffee for breakfast. But Friday night, we opted to go downtown Lake Geneva to eat some wood fired pizza at Oakfire along with some beer and a deliciously warm hazelnut old fashioned which is the perfect warm cocktail for me!
Day 2
Saturday we had an easy morning and decided to walk the Lake Shore trail around the water. The trail lines the lake and mansions around the perimeter.
With intricate pavings, disassembled boat docks, and stone bridges, we enjoyed the morning before heading to Barrique for a quick wine tasting and walk around downtown.
I crave weekends like these all the time. But the reality is, we can't always pack up our things and escape when we want to. I cherish times like these and moments where everything just slows down. It's already the end of October and the holidays are creeping up on me.
Finding time to be still and recharge is essential for me. Even without getaways like this, I make the time to let myself decompress—get away from the hustle and bustle. And what I've learned is that life up north ain't too scary...
Wishing that everyone had a safe and spooky Halloween!
These beautiful fall weeks have been holding out on us this month. With sunny skies, vibrant colors, and the smell of crunching leaves. I have been making the most of calmer days, cooler nights, and wanted to give you all an update on what I've been up to.
Cooper Update...
Life at home has been somewhat slow—Cooper has been cuddling up on the couch, reading the daily news, barking at falling leaves, and eager for me to take him on his mid morning walk. He's 5 years old and still acting like a puppy yet he makes a great colleague.
Fall Walks
Fall walks and hikes have been my go-to. Before the weather falls grim and cold, I want to make the most of the sunshine. This is probably my favorite time of year and I wish it lasted longer than a month. Ben and I have been taking advantage of our weekends to be outside as much as we can. This past weekend we hiked the falls and canyons of Starved Rock. Cozy Evenings
Like most this time of year, I've been embracing cozier evenings by starting the Game of Thrones series, lighting a Trader Joe's pumpkin vanilla candle, eating some chocolate truffles, painting my nails a pretty wine color, and snuggling up in my TJ Maxx woodland plush blanket. Pure bliss.
Holiday Shopping
October is the month where I gather my lists of things I need to get people for the holidays. I've always been two months ahead of the game so I can allot for last minute gift shopping for people just in case. My sisters and I always go in on gift giving for each other—I think we all just get joy from the excitement and easily enough, we all just provide hints or our own wishlists so I can mark them off and focus on my parents' gifts a bit more. In recent years, I haven't been too keen on receiving gifts as I have giving them—it just makes me feel good and this year I want to be a bit more personal with the gifts I give.
Giving Myself Grace
This month has been all about giving myself grace. Time. Pause. Patience. And allowing myself to just be. I get very caught up in plans, feeling a great sense of overwhelm about my goals and where I want to be. For example, my ongoing wellness journey. Waking up early has never been easy for me, and on days when my body tells me I want to sleep—I let it. Instead of kicking myself, ashamed about not making the most of my morning or getting a workout, I just need to let myself make it through the four "quarters" of my day. Knowing each quarter (morning, mid morning, afternoon, and evening) I can improve or do something else to make progress.
As it gets colder and we move forward into winter...coming...I'm looking forward to the warmth the holiday season brings as people gather. I want to move forward in gratitude for peace, family, friends, and loved ones. And take on each day with a new and better mindset.
I write this on the first day of fall. And satisfyingly enough, the weather finally feels like it too. Crisp air, wet leaves, cozier evenings in--and the occasional scent of campfire or burning leaves. I love these months because things just start to settle down.
Many tend to dread what comes after fall, but I see it as a time to reset. Pause and reflect. From the business and constant that summer brings, I'm looking forward to the release of fall.
01. I am going apple picking this weekend with my boyfriend and as much as I prefer going pumpkin picking--which we will definitely be doing--I just couldn't help but plan a fall outing as soon as possible. I'm not even that big on apples, but just the act of going out to an orchard gives me all the fall feels. Last week I made an apple crisp, watched Twitches, and made apple cider mimosas...so I take that back. But what do you do with half a peck of apples? Make another apple crisp I suppose.
02. Re-engaging with my creative habits has always been a motivational and inspirational challenge for me. But after traveling to Europe this summer, I came back with a fresher mindset--and it helped that I was transitioning into a more creative position at work, too.
I find myself to be creative in other ways, like my constant love of rearranging or decorating my room...I don't think I can resist myself. Or the fact that there are new autumnal throws at TJ Maxx that I just simply cannot live without.
03. Working on my mental health journey has been a constant. And with the sentiment of letting go during fall, in addition to my realization that it's okay to seek help when you need it, I have contemplated going to therapy which I think would be a healthy step of gaining an unbiased perspective of the things that go on in this 'ol little brain of mine. Even as a routinely practice of just checking in and not feeling like I have to carry the brunt of my own thought bubbles.
04. Speaking of health, this month I've learned to just listen to what my body needs. Not punishing myself for missing a gym day or a yoga class, but rewarding myself for getting my heart rate up, moving my body, or just knowing that I'm taking the necessary steps to feeling better in my body. Feeling more energized and making conscious decisions each day. That's all I can do. And to live a healthy and balanced life, I need to take care of myself the way I know best.
05. Goal setting has been the theme of the month for me. Paired with confliction of taking next steps in my life and where I'm headed. Things got a little too comfortable a little too fast, and what traveling taught me this summer is that I don't want to be static. I want to be moving. I want to be progressing. I want to be growing. I want to be certain about the choices that I make.
But that comes with giving myself grace and realizing just how far I've come. Being grateful for the things I DO have. And having trust in the process that things will work out as they're supposed to. Letting go.
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