Fear is a manipulative emotion that can trick us 
into leading a boring life. - Donald Miller

I don't want to lead a boring life. I want my life to be full of goals that are crushed, relationships that thrive, and lots of coffee because there's not always enough time for sleep.

Storyline Conference 2014. I'm coming for you.

All Day Fall Day 2013!

This month, I'm really trying to be me - like the REAL me. I've been saying no when I need to say no and yes when I want to say yes. I've been drinking Granny Apple Cider because it's fall and I like it. I bought big colorful sunglasses because I thought it was a good idea. I've been unapologetic about my feelings and have cried when I need to cry and been silent when that was key. I have spent hours cleaning because it makes me feel good. I bought bags of Lindt truffles to treat myself with. I have visited friends from near and far. I'm still figuring out pieces of my job and they're continually giving me space to ebb and flow. I haven't worked out in almost two weeks, but have found rest and am ready to amp it back up. I am trying to tell the people around me how much I enjoy their company because they're pretty fantastic individuals. I sleep with my windows open and my fan on so I can snuggle up under my anthropologie quilt. I've spent a lot of time in my car blasting music with the windows rolled down and the fall breeze whipping through my hair. I visited the site of my future wedding again and was filled with anticipation of being Mrs. Taylor. I rescheduled my days to account for a visit to the pumpkin patch. I've started reading through some beloved blogs and listening to Joy the Baker podcasts again. I'm remembering the things that I love and give me joy. Sometimes it's hard to be yourself, so I'm trying to reflect on these things now - hoping that I don't let them fall by the wayside again.

What are you doing that brings you joy?
What are you really into during this fall season?

xo.

My heart is full of joy.

Yesterday, one of my dearest friends, Megan, was in town for less than 24 hours, but it was one of the best whirlwind trips. I'm so lucky to have someone in my life who I can fall in and out of routine with easily. She's the type of friend who can finish my sentences and understand why I am frustrated or happy without my having to explain. She can drink insane amounts of caffeine and power through jet leg to walk on the beach and eat burgers with me.

And that's what life is about... Creating moments and memories with those around you.

It's not a race. It's not a checklist. It's just love.

Spring is a time of refreshing and new growth. Everyone knows that.

But what is fall?

To me, fall is a time of steadfastness. To know who you are and charge forward.

But do we know who we are in an ever changing environment? Is our confidence at a level that can withstand the season and hold fast through the winter?

It's so frustrating to struggle. You feel alone or misunderstood. But you're not. Every person around you is feeling the same things, dealing with the same problems and questions. So, why don't we talk about it?

Do we feel too different Do we think admission is a sign of weakness?

The only way we can move through life is together.

But it starts within you. You are enough.

I am enough.

It's possible that I overextended myself in September. Or, as my friend Parker said, I was burning the candle at 20 different ends.

So, October is a month for renewal. Fall is my favorite season. October is one of my favorite months. This year, I will use it to find joy and renewed energy.

"... in October, everybody walks around with a certain energy as if they are going to be elected president the next day, as if they are going to get married." (Donald Miller)

I started by meditating for just one minute this morning and reading a story from the book, Cold Tangerines.

"Today, humble Today, presents itself to us with all the ceremony and bling of a glittering diamond ring: Wear me, it says. Wear me out. Love me, dive into me, discover me, it pleads with us." (Shauna Niequist)

Slow and steady wins the race.

xo.