New Year, New Coat

New Year, New Coat

I've recently started cycling and one of my favorite instructors said that she thought New Year resolutions were bullshit. And I kind of loved her for that. 

I have never been the one to actually follow through on any resolutions I make. It's a struggle to even follow through my plans for the week, whether it be cooking a meal that I've set my heart on, or even sometimes waking up early enough to workout. Sometimes I'm so crappy that I cancel out on plans because I'd rather be in my pajamas while watching Dateline in bed... even though I keep telling myself that it'd be nice to make an effort to be social once in a while. 

Truthfully, if I can make it through this life being a better version of myself than I was last year, or even just yesterday, I think it's good enough for me. I realize that every day is a gift and if I can just be kind to myself, kind to the people I love, kind to those I am fortunate enough to meet during my time here on earth... and do things every single day that make me happy, then that seems like a win all around in my book. The triumphs that have made me feel accomplished this past year have all happened to me because I was doing something I enjoyed and therefore was (kind of) good at. It might not have paid me as well, or it wasn't considered 'stable' enough on paper, but I was living my best life. And shouldn't life ought to feel that good? (Or maybe it just feels good to be vague?) So, no real resolutions for me this year. 

Except maybe just eat more tacos.

This post sponsored by Forever21 

This color coat is sold out, but you can get the same coat in taupe here 

minister marie and jumpsuits too

minister marie and jumpsuits too

Random story:

Last night, my friend and I were discussing his wedding. There isn't a date set yet and he's not really religious. Long story short, I started researching alternative officiants for him and shortly after, I somehow ended up becoming ordained online (non-denominational) and am now legally able to officiate weddings... and funerals and house blessings too, among other things. I, myself, was raised Catholic but somehow through my adult years, I guess you can say I've become more of just a spiritual individual. And now it looks like I'll be officially officiating his wedding which is an honor but also quite hilarious. At least for me. But to be honest, after giving it some thought, I actually think I might want a close friend or family member to officiate my wedding one day. You know, if I actually get married and settle down one day faaaarrrrrrrr in the future. But hopefully not too far where my ovaries have completely expired but far enough. 

By the way, I can totally see my twenty-three year old self shaking her head at me regarding marriage. We have opposing views. 

Wearing: 

Jumpsuit: Forever21 Floral Wide Leg Jumpsuit

accessories of the day

accessories of the day

Today was such a slow yet wonderful day. It's such a treat when I get to carve out my day doing exactly what I want to do: grab some tea, try a new recipe, dance class, and then settle early in bed to listen to a new episode of the podcast I just started (anyone listening to S-Town?). Tomorrow is a day full of studying so I'm happy I got to do these fun things on a beautiful day. 

I am interested, however, in knowing what others enjoy doing in their free time. What are you reading these days, or if you've watched any interesting documentaries, maybe you're listening to a podcast that you're really enjoying, cooked something relatively uncomplicated and delicious, or listening to a new artist thats been on repeat. Let me know, some of my favorite books have come from recommendations! 

Wearing:

Sunglasses: Loewe Filipa Sunglasses 

Hat: Brixton Wesley Wool Fedora  (similar) 

Happy New Year

Happy New Year

Happy New Year! Coming out of 2015, I was hopeful that 2016 would be better and different and it was just that in so many more ways than I could have imagined. Last year, I took a leap of faith and decided to leave behind stability in order to go back to school for something completely new. What I got out of it instead was six months of incredible experiences in a different city and every moment has been so fun.

This year, I hope to continue this journey while continuing to grow both from the inside as well as the out. I hope to travel more, "perfect" more recipes, make time for those I love, and use my nursing skills to volunteer in another country. Oh, and maybe this will be the year that I finally close out on an apartment in NYC because this whole traveling back and forth/hotel living makes me feel like a badass but also makes my 30 year old self tired as hell.

Wishing each of you a kickass year. The world awaits your contribution!

This outfit courtesy of Forever21 and I can't wait to be able to wear it someplace warm. Taking recommendations for winter vacation destinations :)