Now or Never

I've had a thought. More of a realization. I am a total freaking dreamer. When I was just a tween, hiding behind under-eyeliner, I dreamt of the eiffel tower & ivy grown cottages in the hills. After abandoning my skinny jeans for sweats, sweats, and more sweats, it was simply to escape my small town. After reading Eat, Pray, Love, it was Bali (that dream has not faded). But now I am focusing on realistics, or trying to. On vacation I befriended/fell in love with a family from Santa Barbara who mentioned it only takes approximately a year to get residency in California. There was a lump in my throat and a sudden pulse in my heart. I kind of knew California would make an appearance somewhere in my future, but this sudden knowledge, right when I am on the verge of another transfer-- I just knew.

I plan to see it all: the large expanses of desert sand and cluttered cacti, national parks filled with trees of every species and the cleanest air you could find.

Listening to Angus & Julia Stone's new album, burning incense, and contemplating new adventures.

Travel is an experience that books just can not offer.

Viva la Vida Loca

Growing up exploring the local markets of Jamaica, the native sea creatures of Cozamel, and the true Mexican cuisine of Cabo, I never truly understood how blessed I was. After a long week and a whole Sunday comprised of baggage claims, customs, and immigration, I am finally back in New Jersey curled up with my puppies. The following is a compilation of photos taken on my trip to Los Cabos.

(outfit:: dress FreePeople, sandals Birkenstocks)

Sometimes a quick escape is the perfect solution after your days begin to float past you. Thats when abandoning your phone and watch are the only way to truly be present. Although this was a family trip, we were able to uncover the local secrets such as taking the rundown bus with all the locals that only costed 1$ (as opposed to a 20$ taxi). The highlight of the trip, in my opinion, was an organic 'farm to table' restaurant known as Flora Farms. All the food that ended up on your plate including the walnut olive bread and fresh seasonal salad, are comprised of vegetables and fruits currently growing feet away. They served citrus sangria in mason jars. A band of local boys called Los Shamanes played classic rock tunes that left me speechless trying to take in my surroundings.

As we get older, we are able to appreciate these types of experiences more and more. I can only conclude that this trip, and all the beautiful souls I was able to meet, left me in earnest anticipation for all the exciting things yet to come.

live free or die trying

There always seems to be a part of me that can not leave behind the constant scrutiny of my own criticism. After reading almost half of the spiritual novel The Power of Now (I kind of gave up), I realized I am a prisoner and my thoughts are the police. Not only am I being held down, but there is no escape. But according to the author, there is. My interpretation of living freely does not necessarily coincide with Eckhart Tolle's. Instead, I believe living freely comes after one abandons all judgement. When an individual can live in the moment without thinking of their plans days from now. When we can appreciate the small things in life.

To live freely is to ~ not judge those who do not meet the 'cultural norm'. take your time creating a beautiful meal. not to think about anytime but the present. dress for yourself. take risks. appreciate the grass under your toes, the sun on your face, and the trees keeping you cool.

All you have is this very moment.

hats off to ya'

(outfit on the right:: shorts urbanoutfitters, shirt unknown, kimono borrowed, fringe bag urbanoutfitters, hat urbanoutfitters, sunglasses vintage)

As I have grown older, my style has increasingly simplified from far-out patterns to plain t-shirts and small details. Instead of opting for your classic aztec pattern that can not seem to be repeated without public scrutiny, there is more appreciation for accessories that can give an outfit a bit of a twist. Hats have never been out of style; however, now there are men and women who strive to design hats that truly accentuate their customers style. They are affordable, provide protection from the sun (just a bonus), and can immediately make a simple outfit more chic.

My advice: hats should definitely be tried on prior to purchasing. Some hats will work better than others for your facial features..

If you are looking for a cheap hat to purchase try asos, Urban Outfitters, but I strongly suggest thrift stores!

A True Pleasure

(outfit: bra sameoldchic, tank urbanoutfitters, embellished vest thrifted, boyfriend jeans americaneagle, shoes converse)

everybody needs their escape. this is mine. a place to share my thoughts, the recipes I create in my kitchen, the struggles I face, as well the way I choose to express myself.

currently I am a sophomore in college striving, just like most, to find her niche in our constantly advancing society. I have been a vegan for quite some time now, and have found that my mind is constantly rotating the thoughts of how I could improve my inner and outer self. this adoration for wholesome food has led to my aspiration in becoming a plant-based, holistic nutritionist. I also have always had a knack for writing, fashion, and our world's diverse cultures. in this case, i also plan to get a degree in journalism. 

the only way to start something, is to throw yourself into it.