Greenery and New Beginning

Pantone announced the Color of the Year as Greenery to instill hope for what’s ahead. Pantone’s Executive Director, Leslie Eismen, put it, “This is the color of hopefulness, and of our connection to nature. It speaks to what we call the ‘re’ words: regenerate, refresh, revitalize, renew. Every Spring we enter a new cycle and new shoots come from the ground. It is something life affirming to look forward to.”  This sense of hope couldn’t have come at a better time as the world gladly says goodbye to 2016 (ahem: Trump and the end of the world as we know it). 

This year has been trying personally as well. I moved apartments (twice), I left POPSUGAR after three years to start a very different role at a startup, and I also ended a long-term relationship — all within a few months. At the risk of sounding cliché, I truly believe this change has helped me grow and feel more connected to who I am and where I want to go. So as 2017 approaches, I am looking forward to a new cycle of change, to refresh, revitalize, and renew. And couldn’t be more ready to start again with a blank slate of hopefulness for what’s to come. 

As I wrap up a very lovely weekend in San Francisco, I wanted to reflect on what made it so great so I can recreate similar experiences in the new year. I think what it boils down to is being surrounded by supportive, interesting people, feeling a sense of community, giving back to my community, and allowing time for self-care. I started the weekend at a holiday cocktail and floral arrangement event at the Archery, an events, production, and coworking space in the Mission. I felt like a kid in a candy shop. Every corner of the space was stunning. There were bouquets of peonies, ranunculus, and other wintery florals for guests to arrange. There was an open bar with Campari cocktails and spiked eggnog - both festive for the holidays. My favorite part was being surrounded by so many talented, creative, and smart women all coming together for a day of fun. 

That night, I went over to a friend’s house in Oakland for an intimate dinner party. If I were to dream up a home, it would resemble my friend, Jae's house in many ways. Every room is artfully organized and minimally designed. The table was set beautifully and she even made special menus for the evening. We laughed, ate a delicious vegetarian meal (well, vegetarian minus the bacon bits), and sipped on festive libations. I had a flashback of when I was younger and couldn’t understand why my parents considered dinner parties enjoyable. I thought they were so boring - adults just sitting around the dinner table talking. Although to be fair, at that point, I didn’t understand how wine makes everything more fun. Still, now as a mid-twenty year-old, I can honestly say, my idea of a fun night would involve sitting around the dinner table with loved ones, listening to good music and drinking good wine. 

To close out my weekend, I volunteered at 18 Reasons for their gingerbread house making event. It was such a kick seeing all these kids beaming with delight as they decorated their gingerbread houses. They were all so well behaved and polite, despite the insane amount of sugar consumed. Most of the kids lived in San Francisco and it was interesting to think about what raising kids in a city might look like. If this sampling of kids were any inclination, I’m confident raising children here would be really rewarding. 

After the event, I popped over to Bi-Rite, picked up some goodies for soup plus other temptations I couldn’t pass up. I made a delicious carrot, ginger, beet soup which is going to be a winter staple from here on out. It’s so comforting in the rain, and does the soul wonders, especially, as I get over this week-long cold. 

I always love New Year’s Resolutions, especially ones that seem attainable. And after such a lovely weekend, a resolution of mine is to do more of what makes me happy. Organize more dinner parties, network with smart and supportive women, try new recipes at home, and also, give back to my community in San Francisco. 

Do More of What Makes YOU Happy

Even though it seems simple enough, we often get caught up with our daily routines and lose track of what brings us joy in life. With that in mind, I'm introducing a new series to this bright collection to showcase people in my life and community and what makes them happy. This series will incorporate short interviews discussing what makes their soul shine bright. My hope is that these interviews will serve as a good reminder to pause and refocus our energy on the things that bring us happiness.

Recently, I've been more mindful of my actions taking note on which ones make me happy and which ones leave me feeling unsatisfied. This exercise has helped reshape the activities I pursue, the friendships I develop, and the way I spend my time. Scrolling through my Instagram feed when I'm bored doesn't improve my mood but yoga and cooking do. I hope to inspire others to forget the rules, live authentically, and above all, do more of what makes you happy.

The first addition to the happiness collection is of one of the most important people in my life, my dad. Read on for what makes my dad happy!  

Describe your own definition of happy: Being content in not needing materialistic things

What daily ritual makes you happy? Waking up the dogs in the morning because they are so happy to see me

If you only had one day left, how would you spend it? Play golf, lunch with friends, spend afternoon with Cecilia, Mel and you then dinner at a nice restaurant, with a nice bottle of wine, of course

What are you most grateful for? My health, physical and mental

Has someone ever done a random act of kindness for you or have you done a random act of kindness recently? Kindness is one of my top priorities in life and I find "what goes around, comes around"

I am happiest when I am volunteering because giving your time is precious and those that receive truly appreciate that

Amazing Yoga in Tulum

With the New Year in motion, I’ve used this time as an opportunity to reflect on all the incredible experiences I've had in 2015. The memory that stands out the most is the Amazing Yoga teacher training I attended with my mom and sister last November. While I deepened my practice and learned tools to teach yoga, I gained so much more during that week. I connected with an inspiring group of people from all over the country, bonded on a new level with my mom and sister, and learned more about myself along the way. 

Going into the training, I had no idea what to expect but knew I wanted to take a break from my busy life in San Francisco. By busy, I mean my life consisted of rushing to work, running to an exercise class or social event, then tiredly plopping in bed, and then doing it all over again. And in between my activities, I was either on social media, listening to music or a podcast, or connected to some device. It took a week away from my normal routine, to realize I wasn't as "healthy" as I thought. Sure, I eat well and exercise regularly, but I wasn't making the time to appreciate my life — instead I was just going through the motions.

During the training, each morning our group would set out for a meditation walk along the beach. This morning ritual acted as such a stark contrast to my daily routine in SF. Without a schedule or to-do list, I was able to slow down and set an intention for my day. Each morning my intention varied slightly, but the common themes revolved around being mindful and grateful. Through yoga, meditation, journaling, and meals with the group, I practiced mindfulness, which in turn, made me more grateful for such an amazing opportunity.

After my training, I felt refreshed and energized to take my learnings and apply them into my daily life. It's been almost a month and a half since my week in Tulum and I still journal and meditate most days, practice yoga regularly, and have slowed down my life in SF. I'm excited for what the future will bring and all the bright moments I'll collect in 2016. Bring it on!

xo

Steph

Between our morning yoga practice and afternoon teaching sessions, we were given two hour breaks for lunch, beach time, massages, or whatever we wanted. Lazing in the hammocks and reading, had to be one of my favorite ways to relax. 

If you couldn't tell from this picture above, my sister and I make a great team. Whether we're brainstorming business ventures or practicing yoga, we always encourage each other to be our best selves. 

We had one free morning during the training to leave the resort and explore Tulum. A big group of us went to the Mayan Ruins. My mom studied the Mayan ruins in college, so she was particulary excited to explore the ruins. Although they were an incredible sight, it was definitely a tourist destination and I was eager to get back to our peaceful resort after our excursion.

I love this picture! I like to think that the three pineapples represent my mom, sister, and I during our amazing week in Tulum.

Going Coconuts for Trouble Coffee

Coconuts are known to have all kinds of healing powers — like repairing damaged hair, moisturizing dry skin, and even curing a bad hangover. However, not all coconuts are created equal and the ones sold at Trouble Coffee in the Outer Sunset are the best I've ever had. Along with fresh coconuts, you have to try their cinnamon toast and espresso drinks. It's a one stop shop for your caffeine fix and deliciousness.  

I took these two stylish ladies to Trouble Coffee where we sipped on coconuts, people watched on the parklet outside Outerlands, and checked out the General Store, one of my favorite boutiques in SF. See our fun below! 

Jocelyn is wearing a Reformation wrap dress and Raen sunglasses. 

Jess is wearing a Reformation wrap skirt, Free People necklace, and Nina Z clogs. 

Dreamy Summer Days

In San Francisco, the transition between spring and summer is pretty much non-existent. It's always a crapshoot between fog, sunshine, wind, or usually, a combination of all three. However, on those cloudy days, the city feels more dream-like and romantic, especially in Golden Gate Park. I took my gorgeous friends to the park for some photo shoot fun — which is the first location of many from the day. These two were beyond photogenic and so fun to shoot. Take a look below! 

Japanese Tea Gardens

Japan has been on my bucket list for years now and I finally felt like I visited for the day at the Japanese Tea Garden in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park. Joined by some POPSUGAR ladies, we enjoyed tea in the garden, admired the koi fish, and cured our wanderlust (at least for the time being). I hope enjoy the pictures from the day! 

Heath & Blue Bottle, What More Could You Ask For?

One of my favorite spots in San Francisco is the Heath Ceramics and Blue Bottle Cafe in the Mission. It combines two of my passions: coffee and good design. Instead of walking into a shop, you feel as if you walked into an artist's artfully curated home. But then if you look farther, you'll see their factory, where they produce their tile daily. Although most locals know of this spot, it feels like a hidden gem tucked away from commotion and chaos.  

Garden Oasis

I'm always impressed by people who have such well-maintained gardens. But with the California drought, I'm even more impressed by creative gardens filled with drought-friendly, low-maintenance plants. Here are some succulents and other plants that show just how beautiful a garden can be without needing much water for upkeep. 

The Coolest Kids on the Block

I wrapped up my weekend at Dolores park for some rosé, sunshine, and an impromptu photo shoot with one of the cutest couples I know. My cousin Jess and her boyfriend Jason both sported cool t-shirts from Mishka, a Brooklyn-based lifestyle brand with a store located in the Mission. These two are effortlessly adorable with each other, with made it easy to capture candid shots and their special moments together. 

Anyone else think these two should be Mishka models? Yeah, me too. 

Easter Sunday with the Fam

As a child, Easter meant lots of candy hidden around the house and impressive Easter baskets filled with much more than Peeps. But like most holidays, Easter lost its charm once I realized the Easter bunny wasn't real and that Easter egg hunts weren't quite as exciting as before.

However, this Easter felt different. I was looking forward to leaving the city for a weekend to unplug and spend quality time with my family. I also became more mindful of what this particular holiday represented: rebirth and renewal. And with this sense of renewal, I'm focusing on maintaining a decluttered apartment, a clean work space, and a clear mind for spring, and hopefully, beyond. And what better way to kick this off than with my family enjoying each other's company over games and good food? These photos showcase just a small subset of my fun and loving family.