I always look forward to my weekly spin sessions…. not only for the physical workout they provide, but when it’s the right instructor, there’s an “emotional workout” that can occur too. Lately, there’s been a particular instructor that I’ve been gravitating towards for that very reason…. and last Thursday’s class was no exception. She started the class by encouraging us to choose one word to describe how we were going to ride for the next 45 minutes…. and she repeatedly checked in with us, challenging us to continue to ride with that same initial intention….

I had been feeling particularly down that morning, and so I chose to ride with “empathy.” To honor whatever I was feeling, to trust my experience, and to ride accordingly. That same intention carried with me outside of the class throughout the remainder of the day…. as I proceeded to treat myself with the same amount of empathy I would a friend….

And so as we embark upon a new week ahead of us (albeit a short one… yes!), I am going to give the exercise a try again…. pick one word for the week ahead, have periodic check-ins with myself, and evaluate where I need to make shifts. This week I am picking the word “strong” to go about the Tuesday-Friday week. I can’t necessarily pinpoint why that’s the word I feel compelled to use, but it’s one that keeps coming back, again and again. So, for me, I’m heading into the week with “strong” as my intention… whatever that might entail. I hope you all have a good one!! xx

(Blue Bowl… the best açaí in Orange County….)

(Kicked off the weekend with some avo toast, caffeine, and a family walk….)

(Saturday uniform…. capris, hoodie, shoes)

(Happiest of hours after an afternoon spent prepping to sell our condo…)

(Little ruffles for rosé sipping… top)

(She’s officially started raiding my closet…. first on her list, my little tote….. my overalls, Harper’s overalls)

(Tiring little miss out….)

(We got it from our momma…. swim wraps)

(Most of our life will be spent in those small, nameless moments… with those we love…. top)

(Our little helper…..)

(Sweet marshmallow kisses…. pareo, suit top, visor)

(The best we could get! My top, Harper’s Shorts, Sunglasses, TJ’s Swim Trunks)
_______

Fitness

Soooo many cute summer shoes out there right now! My favorite tassel, slip on mules were brought back this season…. and I love these beautiful mauve strappy slides… and this black slide sandal is a great basic, everyday option. This white horse-bit, block heel (very low) is a beautiful sandal too… for work or if you’re looking for just a little but of height!

Madewell has some of the prettiest summer pieces right now… like this chambray front knot tank (bought it…), hooded popover sweatshirt in white (great for cool summer evenings), sherbert striped butterfly sleeve top (it’s so so pretty!!), ruffle strap, button front cami (in white),  and I know I’ve mentioned this blush tiered top a lot, but I received it and it’s adorable!

I also got this stripe bodysuit and it’s such a great basic item for the summer….

A few super cute, everyday tank, that are great for warm temps include this stripe option (I bought it last year and it’s great), eyelet sleeve tank (adorable, and several color options), and this v-neck option… which I own in two colors.

And, of course, Free People’s summer collection is amazing…. I snagged this bodysuit tank for everyday living…, beautiful eyelet blouse, and this super cute + casual jumpsuit.