Spring Musings '22

Spring, I’m so glad to see you.

I had a thought while on a walk this morning and just had to sit down to jot it out. So bear with–it might feel long-winded. Over the past years, I’ve struggled with my mental health on a variety of scales. I can’t really find the right words to describe it–but I struggle with staying fully present because of anxiety. I’ve recently been in a much better place with my anxiety and overall mental health–but it’s taken so long to get here and has been a true journey. So anyway, this morning on my walk I found myself noticing things. I know it might seem simple, but for someone who previously would go whole days without remembering large details of them because their brain was so occupied with anxiety thoughts–this is big for me.

I found myself noticing and appreciating the flowers that were blooming in front of me. I noticed the calming breeze as it drifted through the trees above me. I noticed that the tulips my neighbors planted earlier this year, were now standing tall in their front garden. I felt aware, present and most importantly, alive. I began to think back on so many past seasons that have passed me by because I’ve been too unaware to notice them. So many spring morning walks that I trudged through just thinking about the next destination I needed to get to. It made me sad, but also kind of hopeful. I decided that I never want to lose this feeling of staying present. I never want another beautiful season to pass me by without appreciating and recognizing its simple beauty.

All that said, I wanted to share a few spring rituals that I recently found myself appreciating.

Picnics out in the garden.

Well, al fresco dining in general. I grew up here in California and my family always hosted long dinners out in our backyard that would go deep into the evening. I love this ritual and my goal is to have at least one meal outdoors every couple of days during the spring / summer.

I have a post that outlines a few of my favorite ways to make outdoor dining special here.

Spring cooking, market visits, spring bounty, and RECIPES!

I love the farmers market all year-round, but springtime and summer is unlike any other. Is it just me, or does everything feel like its sparkling during spring at the market? The produce is so rich during this time of year, and the flavors so powerful. I love that first deep breath at the farmers market–where the scent of fresh chives and basil is heavy in the warm air. It’s pure bliss.

Speaking of fresh greenery–I recently shared my favorite guacamole recipe that is packed with extra green (and protein!) here!

To accompany that guac recipe, you can never go wrong with a delicious and refreshing marg! My parents are avid margarita drinkers and I’ve perfected this recipe that they love here! It’s pure, clean and packed with a little extra zing–you gotta try it.

One of my health goals this year is to up my protein intake–so I’ve been trying to get creative with old-faithful…chicken. Ugh, chicken is so boring sometimes. I used to eat waaay too much roasted boring chicken and sort of burned out on it, so our relationship has been distant as of late. However, this recipe is actually bomb and packed with flavor–so I promise it’s not just another boring chicken recipe.

And to finish, something sweet! Carrot cake is SO slept on! It’s my second favorite cake of all time. However, I’ve struggled to find a clean recipe that isn’t loaded with sugar. What is it about “healthy” cakes that get absolutely loaded with sugar?? Is it to make up for the fact that there are carrots in it? Oh well. Insert my clean carrot cake here–so clean, you can eat it for breakfast OR dessert.

Watercolor in the garden.

Never losing my childish enthusiasm is something incredibly important to me. I love slipping into an activity (as simple as watercoloring) and having an hour pass by without even noticing. It’s so relaxing and allows me to create while just being in the moment. I’m not focused on the end result, nor am I concerned with time. It’s such a mental break that I have started craving it recently. As adults, I think we all need to let ourselves have more fun. Watercoloring outdoors is definitely a vibe that I highly recommend–plus vino helps!

Hot girl walks

Walking IS AMAZING. I used to be a high-intensity workout gal who never thought walking was “enough”. I used to think walking was too easy or simple, and I needed to do something more intense every day in order to see results of any kind. Oh, how my mindset has changed. I cannot really express just how much I adore walking. It allows me to get outside, clear my mind, and get some sun and fresh air, all while moving my body. I use these weights (duh, as we all know) and strap them to my wrists, and hit the pavement. They allow me to activate my abs as I’m walking, with each step I feel an intentional pull of my arms–propelled by my abs moving my torso.

Fun nail colors!

I recently got this color and LOVED it! I’m not one to stray from my normal red, pale blush or black but I’m so glad I did! It feels like the perfect fun little spring accessory.

Vintage glassware hunting.

Spring is a time to buy flowers and bring in fresh greenery! I always love finding new treasures on etsy to house them in–like vintage crystal vases!

Shopping and refreshing basics that will fuel summer.

Because shopping in springtime just feels right! I love adding new basics to my wardrobe during spring that will last deep into summer. In my opinion, summer wardrobes are built in the early spring! Speaking of, have you perused the Spring Capsule yet?