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. 

Image

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.

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?

Image

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.

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.

Many of you may not know this, but it's currently National Eating Disorders Awareness week. While I am not comfortable to speak on my personal experiences yet, I do feel it's important to make a post in support of good body image. I apologize if I come off strong, I do try to keep this blog filled with light and positivity, but this is a topic I am extremely passionate about.

Say you were in a conversation with a couple of your friends. One of them begins by stating how "fat" they feel that day, which prompts the other to agree and chime in about how much they hate their legs in those jeans. The natural reaction for you is to continue on in compliance while you all laugh together. Now, say you confidently stated that you felt absolutely amazing that day and your dress made you look beautiful. You couldn't say that could you? Declaring that you actually liked your body would make you different, maybe even seem conceited to your friends. 

For both men and women, even more so in young adults, body shaming is considered the norm. The situation I just described is seen everyday in schools, the workplace, and even in the retail environment. While it seems innocent enough, it is what makes serious mental illnesses or eating disorders feel casual. 

In a society ridden with negative media and messages, positive body image can look like an unattainable goal, but I promise there's light at the end of the tunnel. 

I'm sharing with you some simple methods in learning to love yourself. 

1. Appreciate your body for all that it does. 

In the grand scheme of things, all your body ever does is for your benefit. It's healed hundreds of scrapes and bruises, and nursed you through illness. Your arms opened doors, and carried children, and fit perfectly around loved ones. Your legs have moved you through life, up and down hundreds of miles, all over town when you were running errands, and around the neighborhood on evening walks. Your body houses the soul and keeps it safe, only asking for affection in return.

2. Spend your time doing things that bring you joy. 
Those days when your feeling down about your body, it's so easy to get transfixed on your image and worrying about what you look like. Instead of getting lost in thoughts like these, pay attention to the environment around you. Spend your day at the movies with friends, doing yoga, baking, or even listening to music and painting. Whatever makes you feel like the truest version of yourself, do those things, and you'll forget about all the worries.

3. Understand that media is not reality.
Celebrities, media, and entertainment convince us that we are all supposed to strive for replication of a figure on the cover of a magazine. In reality these men and women are the same as everyone else, the only difference is they're poked, prodded, smoothed, slimmed, and tanned in photoshop. Look at media with a critical eye.

4. Decorate yourself in clothing and jewelry you love. 
There has never been any rules about what you can and cannot wear based on your body type. If you love an outfit to pieces, and feel great when you wear it, then rock the hell out of it! I guarantee no matter what others will not be looking at your body, but commenting on how cool your style is.

5. Remember that you are a whole being.
As I said, each individual is a soul inside of a body; a living and breathing organism. Our mind egos often leech to the idea that we are what we see in the mirror, but there is so much more to it. I recommend the book The Power Of Now, because living confidently only comes when you can make the connection that your being is not physical. When this happens you radiate happiness and spirit, and others will notice you and be drawn to that flame.

I hope my advice has helped in some way for you to see yourself differently, even if it is only a small part of your journey.

I promise darling you are not your body, you are something much greater.

I hope everyone's had an awesome week so far, and if you haven't then hey, at least it's Friday. Pizza and movies anyone?

I've had lots of smiles recently.

The Grammy's were this past weekend, and I had the incredible opportunity through my institution to volunteer at a couple of events, including a private artists showcase. My favorite performance was by new comer James Bay. I've been listening to him for a couple of months now, and his soulful melodies are always stuck in my head. Check him out!

Red Velvet Oreos were revealed just in time to scarf a whole box in one sitting on Valentines day.

You're looking at FIDM's newest student tour guide! It's such an honor to be an ambassador and representative for my school, and I can't wait to see what comes next.

A couple weeks ago, Verve Coffee Roasters opened a location just a few blocks from my apartment. I've been in desperate search of a place to get my work done with a mean cup of joe. Verve's got it all, and the staff is super friendly. If you're in the Downtown LA area, I'd recommend stopping by.


What's got you smiling this week?

Let me know in the comments!

(Image via Ann Street Studio)

The 14th of February now looms over us as a romantic day for significant others, or a reminder of absence for those without one.

In my 20th year, I am once again spending Valentines day sans boyfriend, without ever having experienced a real relationship. Although, there has been a shift inside me this time around.

I definitely used to feel pressured when family members would ask me if I've got a special someone, and time and time again all I have to offer is a big fat no. Heck, people I went to high school with are getting engaged for crying out loud!

Those questions used to make me feel lesser, until I decided that I would never let myself be defined by who or who I wasn't dating. Validation of confidence from another persons word won't ever matter if I don't believe in the myself. And you know what?

I've built a life that brings me so much excitement and joy I could scream it from rooftops.

At the end of the day, we are looking past all the small loves between the nooks and crannies to ask ourselves why we haven't found someone to share life with.

When the truth is, we have already been sharing moments with people we've loved all along.

That's what Valentines day is about right? To love, and to be loved. I'm here to say, every single one of you is so cherished.

Think about folks who smile when handing over your usual at the coffee shop.

Think about all the friends you're surrounded by each day who make you laugh so hard your stomach aches.

Think about relatives, and knowing that however crazy you might be, they'll still hang out with you anyway.

Think about siblings whose roots are intertwined with yours; they understand you like no one else can.

Think about parents more powerful than superheroes, you are the single reason behind every minute in their day.

Soulmates are not always lovers.

I hope you spend the day with the Valentines you didn't even know you had.

Good morning friends

I sincerely apologize for my lack of posts and presence lately. Between five classes, becoming an ambassador of my school, and homework assignments that have me traveling here there and everywhere, I lost the time to write. 

Thankfully photography class allows me to wander the California coast, and often at the start of my day. I've always felt comfort in early mornings, a few hours too many take for granted. Serenity lingers in the silence that shatters new daylight, and dawn evolves into a state of mind free from the restraints of ticking hands on clocks. 

There is nourishment in the old wood of coffee shops and warm bowls of oats with those who warm your heart. Mornings are room to breathe and spaces to roam, to be light. 

A single soul underneath the pier amidst the waves, I couldn't help but be filled with the sheer immensity of just how beautiful existence really is. 

Are you a morning person or creature of the night? 

Happy friday everyone!

It's been one of the most ludicrous and eye opening weeks I've had in a while.  Starting my second quarter at FIDM in graphic design, I can honestly say everything finally feels right.   

I wanted to start a feature every friday to share some of the things that brought a smile to my face throughout the week. 

1. Ben and Jerry's announced three new flavors, including one with a cookie butter core, and it might just change the ice cream game forever. 

2. I drew these portraits for my best friends as holiday gifts, and finally revealed them this week. Seeing them so ecstatic made the hours of work beyond worth it. 

3. Turns out there's a blog dedicated to the rejection faces of all the ladies on the bachelor.   

4. I had a photography class that made me feel so inspired I could burst. My first project is to choose 20 photos I wish I had taken, I especially love this series.

5. Someone told me I had the most beautiful eyes they've ever seen. Compliment people, a little goes a long way. 

What made you smile this week?

It’s been a few weeks now since I finally got my first tattoo. 

The designs had been floating around in my mind for quite some time, and I settled on the symbols you see above.

There was no turning back when I marched into that tattoo parlor and out of the snow with both excited and nervous energies. The experience of getting a tattoo went far better than I had imagined.

My artist fully understood the significance of the ink on my skin, and took every precaution to make it as perfect as possible. He even went as far as to give me a lollipop at the end when my face drained of color and I almost passed out from the adrenaline rush. 

Besides that little mishap everything went smoothly.

Since that day, I have gotten an array of mixed reactions from peers and elders when showing them my wrist. It’s interesting to evaluate how our perceptions of tattoos have changed between generations.

Something that was once considered a rebellious act is now widely accepted and even embraced in our culture. 

My tattoo has much more importance to me than just aesthetics (although it does look pretty cool).

A horseshoe and roman numeral four are now a permanent part of me.

My parents, brother and I have always been a team. We have experienced more struggle throughout our lives together than we may lead on, and only prevailed through these hardships with the strength of our bond.

The Whites; we are a single, unbreakable unit. 

These symbols are an exterior expression of devotion to my family members. To remember them while I am far from home, to cherish my blessings, and a promise to always love them. 

We are the lucky four.

While we are quick to judge someones body art if the imagery may seem nonsensical, there is always deeper thought behind a tattoo. It marks a memory, or single point in time of that persons life. 

I absolutely love my tattoo, and I can't wait to wear it until I'm old and grey. 

Do you have any tattoos?

If not, what do you think about them?

New Years is always a time for reflection of hardships and blessings that rose and fell like poetry. 2014 whispered it's final lines, and now we look forward to the future and what it holds for us. The new year is also a completely new chapter of blank pages waiting to be written. Unfortunately, many of us have a tendency to create resolutions for ourselves that come attached with negativity and urgency. 

I don't believe in New Years resolutions, and that's because the definition implies that there is a problem that needs solving. I don't often hear of people vowing to gain something in the new year, only what they want to discard of or change about themselves. 

This year, instead of focusing on what I perceive needs fixing, I'm setting goals and bringing attention to doing what makes me the happiest. Goals keep us striving towards a common purpose and trying our best, but don't bring misery in failure like resolutions do. 

Here are some of my long and short term goals for 2015 

Do more DIY projects

My apartment has been looking quite bare as of late, and as I grow I care more about my home decor. I definitely have an overall aesthetic in mind of what I want to come home to everyday, but I lack a budget to fulfill this. I've compiled a ton of pins and web articles of homemade items, and I started realizing that I could actually create most of them. Why spend 40 dollars on a print for my wall when I could just paint it myself? Decoration on display is much more rewarding when my hard work goes into it. 

Be kind to everyone 

Although this goal sounds vague and cliche, having compassion for others really isn't that hard. Giving a simple compliment to or smile to those you interact with can turn that someone's whole day around. I realize that every single person and family has problems in life, and if I can show a small amount of kindness it could make all the difference. 

Get more serious about blogging 

With school, work, and many late nights it's hard to be consistent with my posts on Maple & Palm. I'd like to settle into a solid blogging schedule, as well as think up more new and exciting content for my readers. 

Broaden my recipe collection

If you know me, you know I'm very passionate about cooking and food. Being a student in a time crunch makes it much more challenging to try and cook an exotic meal than to whip up a bowl of pasta. One thing I'd really love to accomplish this year is trying out one new recipe a week, and maybe even making it through an entire cookbook if I'm feeling really ambitious. 

Keep a better budget
This one's pretty self explanatory. I'm not a huge impulse spender, but I'll admit I avoid checking my bank account for fear of the number I might see. I would like to try and track my expenditures more regularly, this way I know how much money I spend on groceries, coffee, etc. and plan for that each week.

Live more slowly
To me, a slower life does not mean laziness and procrastination, it simply means to find a better balance between all I must accomplish and my own state of being. I read this article a few weeks ago about the curse of being busy, and it really struck a chord. My parents have always taken on the world (in the best way of course), and so I too, have grown up to live in a constant rush. Maybe it's just my nature, but most of the time I feel as though if I stop going, going, going I'm committing a sort of sin.

This upcoming quarter, I am taking the maximum amount of classes, commuting to a part time job, and carry the weight of living as a 20 year old in Los Angeles on my shoulders. In 2015 my greatest ambition is to be successful at school by focusing on a single project at a time, incorporate more meditation and yoga into my life, and accept that it's ok to not be busy. You won't find any peace by living in a future that doesn't exist, only the now.


So here's to 2015, and embracing what you love. And as my best friend said yesterday morning while we watched New York City disappear through the train window, heres to a year of adventure, acceptance, and abundance.

What are your goals for this year?

 Credit

It's been a fantastic few months in sunny socal, but I'm finally home on the east coast for the next couple of weeks. I'm currently writing to you from my couch surrounded by warmth, cozy scents, and twinkling christmas decorations after my morning cup of joe. It almost feels like I never left.

Yesterday was my first solo flying experience, and let me tell you, it started out great and went downhill as the hours ticked on. I successfully traversed the bag check and security at LAX, and made it on my first flight to DC with ease. I knew it had to be too good to be true when my connecting flight just kept getting pushed back farther into the day. Needless to say, a long twelve hours in airports and planes eventually led me home to Vermont. 

I'd be lying if I said I had my phd in traveling, but packing is another story.

Here's a quick doodle of my carry on...

The Essentials 

Lip balm and gum are obvious necessities, but I like to bring a snack with me instead of paying for overpriced airplane junk. Quest Bars are my personal favorite, but any type of granola bar will work! 

Dress

Looking cute while still maintaining some level of comfort is obviously the biggest challenge of flying. I wore my nikes, joggers, a tee, and a cute bomber jacket. I also brought a scarf as I'm flying into the snow, and you never know if you'll be hot or cold throughout the day. Those little air conditioners over head are ruthless. 

Electronics

I keep it simple in this department, theres a tendency to bring all of these gadgets we don't need on the plane with us. Just my phone charger and my headphones is all I need. In the end I was stuck with my laptop too because...well....my suitcase may or may not have been over fifty pounds. Oops.

Extras
Personally, I always bring my sketchbook and micron markers when I travel anywhere. Inspiration hits me at the oddest of times, and I like to keep a visual journal of my life. It's also nice to disconnect when you get the chance and read a good book or magazine.

A Few Quick Tips

Do: Wear comfortable shoes. Come on, heels at the airport?

Dont: Overpack your carry on. No one wants to be that person shoving the huge suitcase in the over head compartment.

Do: Eat. Impatience and frustration is hard enough without extreme hunger.

Dont: Expect your flights to be on time. More often than not there are delays, just roll with it the best you can.

Do: Be courteous and nice to other passengers, and especially the flight crew. Flyings tough, but everyone's in the same boat. The crew doesn't want to be there anymore than you do, so be as kind as possible.

Hope all who are traveling this week make it home safely, Happy Holidays!

I thought I would share a playlist of some tunes I've been digging lately. Some are new discoveries and the rest are old favorites that feel like home. It's a pretty interesting mix of ear candy, so enjoy!

What have you been listening to recently? Let me know in the comments! 

Alright, so it's a tad late for this seeing as the holiday falls two weeks away, but I still wanted to share some awesome products that are on my list this year. Growing older, I'm definitely after more practical items that make my life easier, and focus on quality rather than quantity. Most of my wants this year have a similar minimal aesthetic, and I'm realizing the importance of simplicity. Regardless, this Christmas I'll be home in Vermont and reunited with my family, which is the greatest gift I could ask for. 

Happy Holidays! What are you asking Mr. Claus for this year?

Bowls || Pillows || Candle || Tote || Magazine || Fragrance || Boots || Mug || Wall Art

You know as well as I that we all come to many points where there are two paths open for our exploration. Choice is hard to make when it feels like the decision is stone set, and that each one must be right, but as I grow, I am learning that is not the case. 

The past few years of my life has been a continual journey with many forks in the road. I made the decision to take a year off after high school, continue my education at Maine College of Art, and then only this year I left behind all that was safe in search of adventure at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in California. 

Last year at art school, I accomplished more than I ever thought possible. Each and every day was inspired and full of passion to create, create, create. I felt like a flower bursting through the cracks in the pavement, finally understanding how art is not just on paper, but design is the way the entirety of the world lives. Somewhere along the way, that particular path became filled with overgrowth, making it harder to see straight ahead. There were lonely winter months with no transportation that turned me against the contained city I was in, and that tainted the work I was doing. There was a certain artist mold that I felt I had to fit, and could not. And there was the large looming cloud of debt and lack of job opportunities that hovered over me. 

When applying to FIDM, I was torn between so many different majors, but narrowed it down to two; Graphic Design and Merchandising and Marketing in the Beauty Industry. The first is what I had been studying, but I chose to do something completely different and utilize other skills that I hadn't had the chance to before. 

That was almost a year ago, and even in those months before my move to California in October to now, I have developed in unimaginable lengths. I soon learned that although I consider myself quite intelligent and communicative, business is not for me. Without art, color, and design I have felt like my soul was not right. Creating and making isn't just my job, or what I do for fun, it's who I am. Every sign was telling me that I was taking on the wrong career, and the minute I started thinking about changing my major back to graphic design, I knew I eventually would. 

I currently will be starting back up with my design classes after the holiday break next month, and I couldn't be more excited. I simply traveled down a different path, but the cool thing is, I just turned around and went back. Sometimes we just need that little bump in the road pointing us in the right direction. My message to you, is to listen to what your heart says. There will be so many forces out there telling you otherwise, but when you tune into yourself, you know what's best as a next step. Embrace who you are and what you love to do, because no matter if you try and avoid doing it, you'll always end up in the right place. 

Hey guys!
I hope none of us spend too much time online today, but I just wanted to stop by and wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving. This will be my first thanksgiving without my family, not going to lie I feel pretty sad, but I'm going to make the best of it! Anyways, I have a good excuse to eat my feelings instead...right? :)

I think the Thanksgiving holiday is so muddled nowadays with the whole black friday deal, and people seem to forget what it's truly about. Thanksgiving is to cherish a day with loved ones and be grateful for all of the blessings given to us.

I've been thinking about what I'm thankful for, so I wrote a little list to share.

I'm thankful for...

Sunshine
A really good cup of coffee
My mama, daddy, and brother
My job and the ability to work
Art and imagination
A perfect playlist
The home I can always go back to
Ben and Jerry's ice cream
My education
New friends and old ones

I can't help but feel like there's so much more in this world to say thanks for, but these are just some of the gifts I'm given everyday.

I hope everyone has a lovely holiday, what are you thankful for?

Hey Readers!

I know it's been a couple weeks since my last post, and I want to apologize for that. I'm a full time student part of various clubs, and I also have started a new job with Lou & Grey. To say my life is crazy would be an understatement, so I figured I would write a post on my tips for a busy day!

Make a list

So the day starts with class or a meeting. There’s a package you need to send out, and the car needs to be filled up. Your hair appointment is at four, but theres a couple calls to make and deadlines to meet before then. Oh yeah, and what’s for dinner?

I don’t know about you, but on busy days like these my brain turns to complete mush. It seems like theres so little time, which is why I never leave the house without a list. In the morning, I go through my day and quickly bullet the tasks that are definite. Often times I even jot down little reminders to myself like “smile” or “enjoy today” and tada! Instant mood booster.

You don’t always have to stick to it, but a visual image of your day makes it much easier knowing there really is enough time to check the projects off your list.

Take a moment for mindfulness

On days when I’m running around, I don’t necessarily always need to be. When I have a lot to accomplish, it feels like each task has to be done at hyper-speed. This usually results in dropping things or forgetting something when I leave the house, which results in even more frustration than I had before. Suddenly everyone on the road is in my way, and the guy at Starbucks purposely tried to mess up my order. The problem is I’m moving too fast when the rest of the world is at a normal pace. The best way to slow down is to become mindful.

By that I mean just look around you and notice what you’re doing. Breathe in and breathe out. Sometimes I even speak to myself, for example “I am washing the dishes, the water is cold, the soap smells like lemons.” Ok, this might seem embarrassing, but it lets me focus on what I’m doing right now as opposed to stuff I have to do later. It works, I promise!

Fuel Properly

Ok, I would normally say you can never drink too much coffee...I mean a good cup of joe cures everything, right? The truth is grabbing a latte is a lot quicker than sitting down for a nice lunch, so it always seems like the best option. But then those jitters set in, and you feel like you're about to burst out of your seat. Three grandes later and you’ve crashed, and it’s not pretty. My mug of coffee upon waking is a necessity, but after that I try to switch to water for the remainder of the morning. This helps to stay hydrated and keeps away those headaches when you’ve already got enough to think about.

Hope this helps some of you take on the week with vigor, may the caffeine be with you :)

Hello lovely people, how has everyones week been?

To be honest with you all, the homesickness is finally hitting me. Half the time I love the fast paced city life, but the other half of me misses being in nature and walking around my little town. 

Found this awesome article  about Vermont, number 8's my favorite ;)

Participated in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk Saturday morning! My Grandmother is a survivor, and it was lovely to see such a turnout and feel a part of something positive. 

The weather is even getting a little chilly in LA, so I'm making this chili to eat!

I've been awaiting Tory Burch's new book, In Color, and it finally came out this week! I'm hoping to buy it soon, good read and perfect for the coffee table. 

Feeling a little better about things after reading this.

I'll leave you with a quote for the new week ahead.

Shine on 

This marks my first post on Maple & Palm, and what better way than to share my final weekend in Vermont. Growing up in New England, apple picking, pumpkin patches, and lots of crunchy red leaves has always been a special tradition. Autumn feels like a nice, warm hug, doesn’t it? There’s so many cozy smells in the air, and not to mention the baked goods (I've definitely already eaten way too much pumpkin). But what I think of most when I think of fall, is family. 

This is mine, we are four. The plan this weekend was to take a break and spend our last few days together before I head to the west coast. No state is more beautiful this time of year than Vermont, I can almost guarantee it. 

Mission fall began with a maze, because somehow we find fun in getting lost between huge rows of corn. 

I swear I was planning on wearing my lace up boots and chunky sweater, but the weather thought other wise. I decided to go with this light tunic and jean shorts, and finished my look off with this cool pendant that makes me think of the moon and sun. The perfect seasonal transition outfit. 

If I had to make a list of the things that make me most happy, driving through beautiful scenery with a perfect playlist and someone I love would be at the top. Twisting along the roads through the notch up to the Von Trapp Family Lodge (yes, the sound of music), I was invincible. Iridescence broke through the changing leaves and blanketed the whole scene. 

My family of four spent these moments together on rolling hills surrounded by red and gold. There was good food, pretty gardens, and big laughs. It was just one of those days that was almost too perfect, the magnificence of it all brought me peace with who I am and where I'm going. Afterwards we made a mess baking delicious apple bread, sat down to a home cooked meal, and hugged each other goodnight. 

Reflecting now, I realized that life happens in all those tiny details. I'm moving to California in a few days, and its strange to think that next year will be made up of entirely new traditions and faces. Although I'll still try and recreate my moms fall signature - apple cider warmed on the stove with orange slices and cinnamon sticks, a must try. Somehow I doubt it will be the same without her magic touch. 

This weekend with my loved ones solidified everything that has been until this point in time, and closed the page on and ending chapter. I will miss them more than I can bear, but my memories from this autumn season at home are fresh in my heart. Life is about moving forward, but not forgetting where you've been. 

What are some of your favorite traditions this time of year? 

Until next time