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One of my favorite things to do throughout the week is drive over to Melrose place and spend the morning sipping lattes. Black and white, palms, neutral clothing, and marble. 




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In my last post I talked about saying yes to new opportunities in all aspects of our lives in the pursuit of success. Well, sometimes these chances aren't so obvious, or asked of us. Sometimes, it's up to us to ask for them. 


Nothing in life just lands in your lap, an employer or superior wants to see confidence and eagerness. If your interested in being part of a project, ask if you can be. Often times teachers are involved in many jobs outside of the classroom, just simply mentioning you'd be really interested in giving an extra hand shows them you want to learn more. Anything you can offer is not going to go unappreciated.

Recently, I was sketching in one of my cozy coffee spots when I saw an artist I had been following on Instagram for quite some time. It was so strange our paths crossed at this exact moment, and I knew it would not happen again. I forced myself to walk over to her and introduce myself, and we had a really nice conversation. I don't know where the confidence came from, maybe I was jacked up from my latte, but before I left I asked if she was looking for any help. Guess what? Next month I'll be starting an internship. Sometimes life does throw opportunities in our faces, we just have to grab them. 

Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but quite the opposite. We all have a different vision, and deserve the chance to prove it. Our 20's are truly the time to shine, and showcase all of the special talents and skills we possess. 

Be brave, ask for what you want, it's your's for the taking.
Inspiring my palette lately...

















As a younger, faster paced generation, we're all prone to a disease called "the fear of missing out". This is a real problem that plagues us all as friends, coworkers, and employers are asking us left and right to go out, or stay an extra hour. So is it ever ok to just say no?


Well, yes and no. I know, not the answer you wanted to hear. As with most things, there's no black and white to the question. When it comes to a social life, there are certainly times when it's ok to turn down an invitation and just stay in for the night after an especially exhausting week. Contrary to popular belief, we can take some time to relax.

I will also say that with a more open mind I have made a lot more friends, even if I do only see some of them at work or school. I started to say yes to social situations that might be new, and every time I have it's turned out to be way more fun than I expected.

Now, what about in education and career? This is where I do not think we, in our early to mid 20's, have the luxury to turn any opportunity down. And really, we shouldn't want to! Sometimes a job or an extra task might seem useless, but I can almost guarantee something else will stem from the activity in the future.

There is no harm in trying out something new, even if you feel you may not be a total expert on the job at hand. It's a way to learn the playing field too and see what you might be good at. And guess what? If it so happens that you are unhappy in the position, there's always the option to say no the next time.

I've taken on a lot of different responsibilities since I've moved to California, (which I would NEVER have done a year ago), and another has always followed right after. You literally never know who you're going to meet at any given post or event. People know people know people, and most of the time successful folk are more than willing to help students. Right now, we need all the guidance we can get.

A mentor told me recently that when there's a natural flow of opportunities that keep presenting themselves, you know you're doing the right thing in the right field. So I encourage you...just say yes, you might find something great on the other side.





Wow, it's been a hot minute since we last spoke. Sorry friends! I apologize for my absence on this little corner of the internet. I've had copious amounts of homework, side projects, and freelance work and sometimes something's gotta give.

I first started this blog during my summer at home last year when I was desperately searching for something to keep me busy. Flash forward 8 months and I'm currently in a position in my career I never imagined I would be.

I'll admit...I tend to fill up my plate with the intention of eating every last bite, but halfway through I could really use a nap. Aaaaand what you can take away from that super awkward metaphor is that I simply don't have as much time for my own projects as I used to.

With that being said, by no means is this the end of Maple & Palm, it's only the beginning with a few bumps in the road along the way. I've really missed writing and posting just for the sake of it. Another reason blogging became challenging; I started to do this for others instead of for fun. My second worst habit to overbooking myself is perfectionism.

So from now on, I'm going to try and commit myself to one post a week, maybe sometimes there will be more, I'm going to let it be spontaneous and free-flowing. Maple & Palm will grow and evolve along with me.

Lately I've been loving...













Stripes, suede, denim, army jackets, and shoes galore.



Watching...


(in the background while I do homework of course)





Cooking and Eating...


Farro Caprese Salad by Oh My Veggies


Eggplant Parm by Minimalist Baker 


Chicken and Waffles at my new favorite brunch spot Poppy + Rose


Pressed Juices  in addition to all the food you see above, I'm not about cleanses. Apple Orange Lemon Turmeric is my favorite!

Listening to...



Twenty One Pilots new album is unlike anything I've ever heard. Can't stop won't stop.  



I listened to the new Mumford & Sons record on repeat during my flight home a few weeks ago


Where do you I want to be in the next 2 years? Part of Taylor Swifts squad. 

What have you been loving lately? Let me know in the comments! 

Until next time. 


I was four and half years old sporting a head of uncontrollable curls and a Mickey Mouse T-shirt when I saw my little brother for the first time. That was 17 years ago.

I felt Aidan's warm body resting in my arms that morning, and at a very young age I knew I would always protect him. There was an invisible magnetism between us, although Aidan gives off that aura to most everyone he meets. He radiates with light.



I'm so thankful to have a younger brother, and there are so many perks to knowing there's someone who's always on my side (most of the time anyway). Brothers and sisters are those people in your life that just get you, no questions asked.

I'm sure anyone with a sibling knows just how awesome it is they exist.

1. They'll be your partner in crime

Siblings will always stick by your side and keep your secrets. When things with your parents might be a little crazy, you know you've got your sibling to back you up.

2. You never have to worry about having a date

Having a sibling means always having someone to go to the movies with so you don't have to sit by yourself. Want to try that new Mexican place? It's a date.

3. They'll always understand what you're going through

Siblings are the easiest to talk to about anything that's happening in your life, good or bad. They know you better than anyone, so they'll totally get what your dealing with.

4. You'll never be embarrassed around them

I think back to some of the nights when Aidan and I have laughed about the stupidest jokes imaginable. Or made ugly faces. Or danced around like crazy people. With siblings, you can be whoever you want to be without any judgement.

5. They'll be your best friend for life

The single most greatest thing about having a sibling is knowing in your heart that for an entire lifetime, there's always one person who's going to love and support you.

Through the years Aidan and I's bond has not changed, only evolved and grown stronger while we face new adversities and triumphs. It's his birthday today, and this post is dedicated to him. Aidan, you're so talented, kind, and strong. I love you buddy.