A CITY GIRL'S GUIDE TO THE GREAT OUTDOORS

 
I head back home to Colorado in five days, and I couldn't be more excited to spend time with my wonderful family and breath in the fresh mountain air once again. As I'm getting ready to pack for the summer, I remind myself that I don't need much other than my Birkenstocks, some soft t-shirts, and a few good pairs of shorts. I feel so lucky to be able to call the great state of Colorado my home and I can't wait to explore it some more this summer.

Whenever I tell people where I'm from, I usually get a response like, "I go skiing there!" or "It's one of my dreams to hike there!" Since so many people plan on visiting the Rocky Mountains at some point, I decided I would write out a packing list! If anything, I hope this post finally prompts my dear friends to come visit!

So here is a general list of some things you might consider buying before you visit Colorado:

1. Birkenstocks or Chacos- you'll want a comfortable pair of shoes to walk around in. I would suggest getting both, since Birks are great for hanging around and walking short distances in, while Chacos are perfect for hiking. I love wearing sandals when I hike so that I can step in puddles and get as wet as I want!

2. Patagonia Fleece- any fleece will do, but Patagonia is always a safe bet. Because of Colorado's dry climate, the temperature drops significantly in the evenings. Make sure to bring a comfy jacket that you can wear when you are camping and hiking later into the evening.

3. Fanny Pack-  remember those funny pouches your mom used to wear in the 80s and 90s? Yeah, well it's great for hiking. I love wearing a fanny pack when I hike so I can have everything I need in a small, easy to carry pouch right in front of me! Click here and here for some really cute ones!

4. Chapstick- make sure its reliable and that you have A LOT of it. Colorado can be very dry in the summer so you're lips are likely to prune up like a raisin. My favorite chapsticks to fight off raisin lips are SunShades Lip Balm (in peach mango, of course) and Rosebud Salve (from Sephora for $6).

5. SmartWool socks- If you plan on hiking a lot, prepare carefully by packing comfortable hiking socks. SmartWool is the best brand for comfy and warm socks. They may be a little pricey, but it's totally worth it. They will last forever.

WHY WE SHOULD ALL DRESS LIKE BABIES

Popular designer, Jason Wu said, "There is a blur between day and evening clothes now." I would argue that our day clothes should not only be able to transition into evening wear, but should also be able to be worn to bed. That's right. You should be wearing clothes during the day that are comfortable enough to be pajamas. Okay, maybe that's a little bit extreme; however, I'm a firm believer in dressing for comfort. To get advice on comfortable dressing, I suggest we turn to the expert on relaxation: Babies! What do babies wear? Onesies! 

I think my nephew, Finn, would agree that there is nothing more freeing than a good old onesie (other than being fully naked, of course). Consider this image of Finn that I stole from my brother-in-law, Jon Jon. 

Have you ever seen a human more ready for playtime and sleep at the same time? Also, isn't he the cutest person alive? Finn can run around without a care in the world. He never has to stop playing with building blocks to pull up his pants and he is never worried about his shirt riding up to reveal his soft, white belly! What a glorious existence! These are the same reasons I love wearing rompers and jumpsuits. If I could, I would replace all pant/shirt combinations with solid onesies. The only downside I can think of is that when you have to go to the bathroom, everything comes down. 

I got my first romper in high school and loved that I could put it on without having to think about several aspects of an outfit... after all, rompers are basically shorts and a shirt sewn together. It's awesome. My favorite jumpsuit that I own came as a hand-me-down from my boss. It's soft and black and can basically be worn for any occasion. A woman with any intelligence would simply buy one black romper and wear it everyday of the year. But, I get that people want some variety, so below are a few adorable and affordable rompers and jumpsuits! 

1. Topshop Overlay Jersey Playsuit

2. Hollister Rayon Romper

3. Hollister Mission Beach Jumpsuit

4. Old Navy Sleeveless Jersey Romper 

5. Kimono Jumpsuit

So start off your finals week right by buying yourself a jumpsuit that you can wear for the duration of your studying and testing! :)

xo.

Brenna 

HOW TO SHOW YOUR HOT BOYFRIEND AROUND THE CITY

It's always so much fun when Michael and I get to visit each other and experience little glimpses of one another's life for the weekend! Michael decided to visit New York during a time of warm weather for the first time ever, and I knew this would totally change his perspective of the city! If you live in New York, you have likely had a friend or relative come visit you! It's such a challenge to decide where you're going to take your guests and what you're going to do (or eat!). There are so many ways to entertain your guest during their time in New York City, but here are a few of the things Michael did when he visited!

1. GO TO TRADER JOES 

On Michael's first day in the city we went grocery shopping at Trader Joes! Everyone goes grocery shopping, and many people around the country go to Trader Joes. But, there is nothing like a TJ's in Manhattan. I loved getting to do such a normal, everyday thing with Michael so that he could get a peek into my life in the city!

2. EXPLORE THE PARKS

You have to take your guest to Central Park! I would advise spending at least a half-day walking around. A few of my favorite spots are Sheep Meadow, Jackie Onassis Reservoir, and Bethesda Fountain. Michael and I were able to walk around the Reservoir and see the blooming cherry blossoms by the water! We also spent quite a bit of time in my favorite park, Riverside, which runs down the west side of Manhattan. There is so much to see in Riverside, whether you're exploring, picnicking, or detouring during your commute. 

3. TASTE TEST

New York City has over 40,000 restaurants, which can be intimidating! Be sure to pick a few of your favorite places, while also using your guest's visit as a chance to try new places! I took Michael to Absolute Bagels, an award winning bagel shop on the Upper West Side. We took our bagels to Riverside Park and enjoyed them on a bench under the shade of a tree! We also visited three restaurants I've never been to. We had the most amazing Indian food at Chapati House in Morningside Heights. We also went on a date at cascabel taqueria the last night he was in the city and spilt delicious baha fish tacos and an amazing chicken burrito!

4. CONCERTS CONCERTS CONCERTS

When your guest plan their visit, check online to see if there are any good bands coming to the city during their stay. Michael and I were fortunate enough to be able to go to King's Theater in Flatbush to see the legendary Sufjan Stevens! 

5. MUSEUMS GALORE

The city is filled with amazing museums! My favorites are, of course, the Met and the MoMA and the Museum of the Moving Image out in Queens! Michael and I walked around the Met for a few hours, awestruck by its collection of masterpieces... and then we went and ate a cart hot dog on the side of the road. How classy!

Where do you like to take your guests?

xo.

Brenna 

ONE THOUSAND SEVEN HUNDRED AND FIFTY MILES

When I was younger I pictured myself going off to college (in NY of course) and falling in love. During my senior year of high school, this vision quickly faded as my feelings for Michael grew. Michael and I met when we were thirteen and in the seventh grade. He transferred to our small charter school from the nearby public school. Though we weren't really friends until the week before our senior year, I always thought he was pretty great. After six months of friendship, we started dating. It's been about three and a half years now and we have lived exactly 1,750 miles apart for a majority of our relationship. 

We started dating January of our senior year of high school, knowing we would both be moving away for college later that year. We had our first date over coffee (which he spilled everywhere), went to prom together, graduated high school, and moved away in August. Though the distance was difficult, breaking up was never an option and moving really wasn't either. Long distance isn't easy, but I couldn't picture these past few years any differently. 

After freshman year, I played with the idea of moving back to Colorado to go to school with Michael, but God made it very clear to me that I was supposed to stay in New York. I wrestled with this thought constantly: why would God have these two great things for me in two different places? Was I not supposed to be with Michael? Was I not supposed to be in New York? I realized that having Michael's encouragement and wisdom in my life would actually be crucial in my success in New York, even if he couldn't be here with me. These two things were not mutually exclusive, but rather intricately intertwined in God's plan for my time here. Moving home to Colorado to be with Michael would have been a disservice to myself... it would have been like stepping out of a class because it was difficult, even though it might give me insight and knowledge that I couldn't get elsewhere. 

So, we decided to stick it out through our four years of college, and now we only have one year left! With two busy schedules and a two hour time difference, getting time to talk is difficult. Thankfully, we figured out ways to make it easier. Our sophomore year we started scheduling a few hours in our week to sit down and Skype each other. This intentional time spent catching up on each other's lives made the distance so much more manageable! We also found that picking a book to read together or watching TV shows over Skype allowed us to feel like our lives were a little more in sync. And one plus side to long distance is getting to visit each other! Michael visits tomorrow and I couldn't be more excited! More on his visit later!

I'll admit, long distance presents its challenges, and it isn't for everyone. We were made to be physically present with the people we love, but in these past three years, I have learned that separation can cultivate an even greater love than that which would have been. I can't say what would have happened had Michael and I spent these past three years together. But I can say that being apart has taught me to lean on the Lord, and not Michael, in times of trouble and praise Him when I experience joy. Although I would have loved to experienced my college years with the one I love dearly, the things the Lord has shown me through our distance are more valuable than anything. I am so thankful for this time of growth, but I also really can't wait to live in the same state as that kid again! :)

xo.
Brenna 

P.S. photo credit goes to Mia Alvarez! Check out her how-to calligraphy blog here!

SMOOTHIE LOVE

The air just smells like summer here in New York today! I love looking down from my fifth floor window and not being able to spot one winter coat on the street. The little mom and pop shop downstairs is covering our little corner of Broadway with beautiful flowers. And, I'm going to a picnic this afternoon and plan on making a summery salad to eat on the terrace with my roommate, Jade! It's about time we put that space to use!

Warm weather always brings on the nostalgia of childhood! I have such fond memories of swinging outside, hearing the ice cream truck music in the distance, and running down the street with a few dollars in hand. My mom and dad would just laugh at me as I came back with some huge Mickey Mouse ice cream with gum balls for eyes. As I've grown older, I find myself craving smoothies instead of these massive sugary treats! I love starting my day with a nutritious blend of veggies and fruit!

Here's my favorite mix:

1 cup KALE

1/2 cup CARROTS 

1/2 cup SPINACH

1/2 cup COCONUT MILK

1 BANANA

1 1/2 cup FROZEN FRUIT (I typically do 1/2 berries, 1/2 pineapple, and 1/2 mango)

* click here for a cute little vid I made of me making my smoothie
this morning! 

My rule with veggies is as follows: shove as many in as you can before your smoothie starts to taste like a blended salad. Starting your morning off with 2 cups of veggies and about 2 1/2 cups of fruit will give you energy throughout the day! If you prefer a more fruity smoothie, that's okay! Cut the carrots and spinach... you'll barely taste the kale! 

Here are some more great smoothie recipes:

1. A Power Breakfast: Green Smoothie
2. The Easiest Breakfast Smoothie
3. Mango and Cashew Smoothie
4. Perfect Peach Smoothie
5. Cacao, Banana, & Avocado Smoothie

For more healthy eats, visit my friend Alina's blog here! 

xo.

Brenna 

EXPLORING THE HOOD: upper west side coffee shops

Moving to a new neighborhood can be intimidating. Where do you go grocery shopping? Where do you run to grab ice cream when you really need it the most? Who are your neighbors? What's the crime rate in the area? These are just a few of the questions you might ask when you relocate, but I think the most important question of all is, "What coffee shops are in my hood?" I mean, think about it. Where do you study? Where do you meet up with old friends? Where do you go on a first date? The answer? A cute coffee shop! 

When I moved to the Upper West Side almost two years ago I wasn't really familiar with the area, but I knew one thing: that it would be imperative that I find the best coffee shops in the neighborhood. Here are my five favorite spots on the Upper West Side:


1. Birch Coffee: 750 Columbus Ave (between 96th and 97th)
Birch is dedicated to serving its customers, claiming "Service is what we offer, coffee is how we get there." With an array of artisan coffee and delicious grilled cheese, Birch has easily become one of my favorite places to meet up with friends or catch up on reading. Don't know what your next read should be? Birch has a whole bookshelf of books for the taking or trading! I got the most adorable French children's book ever! 



2. Earth Cafe: 2576 Broadway (between 97th and 98th)
Earth Cafe is my new favorite! It has only been open for six months and its less than five minutes from my apartment. The baristas are so kind and the environment is bright and sunny, fitted with whitewash walls and open, airy windows. This place does have outlets and a ton of seating, making it a great place to work! They have great organic vegan treats and dishes and delicious lattes! I'm so glad it's finally getting warm. I'll be here all the time! 


* photo taken by my dear friend Mia Alvarez (click here to check our her beautiful calligraphy blog!)


3. Plowshares Coffee: 2730 Broadway (between 104th and 105th)
This little gem can be found on the North end of the Upper West Side. Plowshares specializes in their roasting process, making small batches to optimize roast profile. In other words, they are really good at what they do. With social responsibility at the core of their spirit, they source only fair-trade beans. They also serve the most delicious kombucha from Kombucha Brooklyn! Though the seating is limited, it's a great place to stop for a quick coffee run! Don't forget to admire the beautiful art on the wall!


4. Joe Coffee: 514 Columbus Ave. (between 84th and 85th)
Nestled among dozens of great little restaurants and shops, Joe Coffee is the perfect place to grab an after-dinner treat or cappuccino. With little bistro tables, high ceilings, and a great view of the street, this place reminds me of a small cafe in France! Also, for any wannabe baristas, the Joe Coffee "Pro shop" on W. 21st street offers a variety of classes. So if you're willing to venture downtown, spend a nice afternoon learning how to create latte art!


5. Irving Farm Coffee Roasters: 224 W. 79th street
Last but not least, Irving Farm is one of the best places to go to get work done! There are a ton of tables and plenty of outlets to go around. Not to mention, the coffee is delicious and the food menu seems endless. It has a modern feel in the back, while keeping with the classic New York cafe vibe in the front. There is a great little nook in the back for serious studying, or a community table in the front for small groups to meet. I love visiting Irving Farm and then walking up Broadway to Westsider Books (between 80th and 81st)


Now that I've told you about all best coffee shops to visit on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, follow my friend Conny's blog to find out where to get the best espresso in all of Italy!

I clearly love the Upper West Side, but I'm always open to exploring another neighborhood! What's your favorite coffee shop in your hood?

xo.
Brenna

HOOKED ON CROCHET

It was senior year of high school when I realized my great lack of a hobby. For once in my life I wasn’t playing competitive sports and my short career in theater had recently ended. Let me just say, I had down time. And a lot of it. Enough so that one evening I took a trip to the local craft store with one thing in mind: find a hobby. I could very well have left with anything, but after circling the store several times, I decided to learn to crochet. I didn’t realize then that I was starting something that I will likely be doing for the rest of my life. 

I learned solely through YouTube videos—watching different grandmas’ and crafters’ hands working tirelessly under the lens of a video camera. My first attempt was fruitless, but after several days of practice, I made my first scarf. Over the following months I perfected the cowl neck scarf and began to challenge myself with new patterns and projects. 

Crocheting has not only given me something to do on long rides on the subway, but it has shown me the benefit of committing to a task and pushing through the early stages of learning. The rewards of being able to create are very satisfying. I began by copying videos on YouTube, endlessly repeating and redoing, and have since created my own patterns. I now sell my scarves and headbands online and it brings me joy to see people wearing the products that my hands created! 

I thought about making my own video tutorial, but thought it a proper homage to my share the videos of my past “teachers”—here and here! 

For beginners, I recommend using a 10.0mm crochet hook and Lion Brand’s Hometown USA acrylic yarn, which can be purchased at most local craft stores or at their online store. This yarn is great for your first scarf because it’s inexpensive (in case you mess up) and it comes in bright and light colors, which will be better when you are first crocheting. Once you have your supplies and some sweet alone time (or a group of crafty friends), sit down, press play, and follow along. Don’t be afraid to press pause and take your time! This could very well be the beginning of a lifelong hobby!

* this post was originally published in an online publication for intentionally minded women called In Earnest Magazine.

xo.
Brenna