done.

Sunrise Adventures

The concept of a sunrise hike has always appealed to me. On this particular morning, we technically missed sunrise AND we got chased by cows, but it was well worth it. Maybe one day I'll make it before sunrise, but I'm not in too much of a hurry.

Idyllic December

These last days of December couldn't be more perfect. I've done nothing but hike and adventure and sleep and read without any agenda. Winter break has been as relaxing as it possibly could. No homework, no essays, no college applications. I relish these days, because I know they will become increasingly infrequent. I'll be gracious for them now, as to hold on for them for the times when I'm overwhelmed and overworked.

I have nothing but love for December and:

1- Mt. Diablo

I am one lucky girl to have a state park in my backyard. And an absolutely beautiful one to boot. So many trails and such a variety in terrain. I could get lost there forever.

2- Ikea

Swedish anything, really. I could not be more thrilled for our impending trip to the Baltics. Swedish efficiency and the whole notion of form coming from function is everything I am about. My most recent  shopping endeavor left me with a giant plush carrot-humanoid, a watercolor paint set, and desk organizers. Also, can we talk about the swedish meatballs? I am truly, 100%, completely addicted.

3- Watercolors

A friend reintroduced me to the magic of watercolor painting. Such a relaxing way to spend time. Also, water color is a great medium when you have such beautiful inspirations like Mount Diablo. We found some picnic tables randomly off the side of the trail during a hike and decided to take full advantage.

Shameless September

September is the most confused of the months, but often presents the kind of contradictions that I love most. Think short shorts + comfy sweaters or heavy coats + suntans. I feel like you can get away with a lot in September, as long as you're willing to be a little bit cold or a little bit bold. For me, late September is so exciting because it appears as the last fleeting opportunity to have a proper summer-like adventure before its too cold or people are too busy. Dreams are big, plans are scarce, and adventures are near.

Things I'm loving in late September:

1- Golden Gate Park

Alice's Now & Zen free concert in Golden Gate Park was a blast. Granted, we were two and a half hours late and we didn't technically get in the venue. BUT we did get to listen to One Republic belt out lyrics to our favorite songs while lounging on the grassy knolls with our much more interesting hipster counterparts. Also,  the carousal? Worth every penny. I recommend it it highly.

 2- Disposable Cameras
Oh my oh my how I love them. The way the catch the light. Flipping through prints months after they're taken. There's just something about pulling out a disposable camera that makes everyone a little happy inside. No one gets excited when you pull out a camera phone, anyway. I've been stockpiling cameras like crazy lately, I'll buy one any chance I get. You never know when they'll come in handy.

3- The Avett Brothers
The smooth voice and guitar riffs get me EVERY time. The newest album, Magpie and the Dandelion, is the quintessential NorCal road trip soundtrack. Buy it right this very instant.

Late Spring

Late spring is my favorite time of year. Although academically overwhelming (SATs, SAT IIs, APs, etc.), I can't help but to feel this overall sense of calmness and serenity. I'm just starting to take out all of my summer clothes and my hair is behaving again. The farmers market is at full capacity and I don't have to justify eating melon at every meal. My favorite type of music (heavy on the acoustic guitar and ukulele) seems appropriate for blaring in my car as I drive with the top down. I even try to take the freeway was often as possible- and I HATE the freeway- because there is just something about the wind and the speed and the hair flying everywhere. Regardless of the destination, I know that my messy hair and windblown cheeks give me a sense of confidence, a hey-i'm-young-fun-california-girl feeling that is possible the best in the world. So in honor of the gloriousness that is late spring, here is a list of my favorite spring things:

1-Smoothies & Fruit Slushes

-No way to go wrong with fruit. Really, there is no way. Inspiration comes straight from Vitality Bowl.

2- Spotify

-I do believe that I have curated the quintessential spring playlist on Spotify. Quite a bit of ukuleles and harmonica. Check out Ed Sheeran's Gold Rush, Noah and the Whale's L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N., Vampire Weekend's Diane Young.

3- Natural Light

- The spring rain clouds are rolling back and everything is bathed in a refreshing white light. We haven't closed a single window in a week.

4- Panama Hats

-I recently picked up a panama hat from J. Crew and I wish I never would have to take it off. With my head size and massive amounts of hair, I really struggle to find hats that fit, but a men's large fit like a charm. Find it here.

5-Rompers

-After a winter of sweater dresses and tights, I'm extremely excited about rompers and bare legs. For someone who jumps, hops, and skips as much as I do, rompers are a must.