Oh, what a month it has been!
From seeing family and colorful leaves galore to a new fitness adventure and much-needed relaxation—October brought me so much goodness. I’m sorry to see the month come to an end, but then I remember the holiday season is coming up, which holds its own festive fun.
See below for a bunch of the things that have made me happy over the past 26 days.
These Are a Few of My Favorite Things
Visiting Family – First and foremost, I have to mention a trip Matt and I made back to Illinois to see family! The purpose of the travel was actually for a friend’s wedding, but we wanted to take advantage of the time home to visit our parents and my siblings (and the cutest niece ever). As always, it was good for my soul, and I’m already counting down the days until we can go back. We don’t usually go back in the fall, so it was AMAZING to see all the beautiful colors everywhere. 
Bridesmaiding – My best friend from college got married, and I had the honor of being a bridesmaid! She was a beautiful bride, and it was such a fun fiesta. A major bonus to the event is I got to see a bunch of other friends from college who I don’t get to see much anymore (because you know…we moved to different places because we had to get jobs and other sad adult stuff).
Apple Orchards – I was way too excited about going home and experiencing fall (San Diego has some things left to be desired; aka seasons). So I forced encouraged my family to go to an apple orchard with me, which totally happened and did not disappoint. However, a dozen of apple cider donuts was WAY too much. My eyes are often bigger than my stomach. And that’s just way too much treat yo’self mindset than I’m down for.
Cubs Fans – CUBS!!! The World Series started last night, and our household is a bit loud because of it. If you didn’t know, the Cubs haven’t been to the World Series since 1945 and haven’t won it since 1908, so it’s kind of a big deal. I’m not sure if Matt’s going to make it through this week because he’s an emotional wreck. Haha. But seeing all the Cubs fans and their enthusiasm and dedication to the team makes me so happy. They (/we) are a crazy bunch!
Barre – I’ve mentioned in the past that barre is one of the fitness classes that really intrigues me. That’s why when I was offered a free week at Studio Barre Bird Rock, I accepted in a heartbeat! The workouts are so challenging, and I think I’m falling in love. I have a couple classes left before my week is up, but I might just have to purchase some classes. It’s such an amazing workout! And it works so many areas I don’t ever think about, like all around the hips. It seems like a great idea as I continue to recover from IT Band Syndrome.
Spirits by the Strumbellas – This song is so catchy—I can’t get it out of my head and I don’t want to.
Hammocks – Can we just talk about hammocks for a second? If there’s one nearby, you better believe I’m in it and hogging it. I’ve always loved hammocks. They’re such a perfect place to relax and injure yourself by falling from. Matt doesn’t know this, but we will be getting a hammock someday. It’s only a matter of time. 😉
That Feeling After a Workout – EVERY. TIME.
Plantain Chips – This is a treasure I found by starting the Whole 30 (though I ultimately decided to discontinue). You can find these at Trader Joe’s, and they are the best snack ever. They’re straight up salt + roasted plantain, and they are delicious.
Halloween – Halloween is fast approaching!! It’s such a fun holiday, and I always make sure to dress up. I don’t even care what we do on the actual day/night. I told Matt as long as I have a costume and go in public, I’m happy. Like the past three years, I have two costumes: one for funsies, one for work. I’m currently working on both of them, and I don’t want to share what they will be quite yet, but if you want, check out my past Halloween costumes! (Below was my costume last year—a dinosaur; Matt was the old dude from Jurassic Park.) Are you dressing up? Do tell!
Those plantain chips sound intriguingly awesome!
They’re delish! Everyone seems to love them with guac, so I plan to try that soon.