Fall intentions

As the end of August quickly approaches, I can't help but think about this coming school year. the thought of starting my third year of undergrad is frightening, yet thrilling at the same time. This year will be the chance to really show how far I've come and the opportunities to start deciding what I really want to do with my life.

My sophomore year was extremely tough on my mental and physical health, but this year I'm ready to take on these challenges. When I reflect back on last year, there are so many things I could have done to prevent my stress, but do I regret any of the decisions I made? Absolutely not.

My intentions for the upcoming year are going to be challenging, but I am determined to have the best year of my life. So, without further ado, here are my fall intentions:

Academics

I am looking to discover what I would like to do with my degree. A lot of people I share classes with are pretty solid in what they want to do with their future, but not me. In my sophomore year, I explored children's wear and really enjoyed it. I think I would like to work towards sustainable fashion, because at the rate the fashion industry is moving, the environment is not going to survive much longer. Outdoor wear is also something I would like to look into.

Health

When I start school I would like to focus more on my health then I ever have before. I will be participating in CHAARG twice a week, with intentions to visit the gym every other day. I will also be focusing more on what will be going into my body, and learning the best ways I can fuel it to feel my best. I would like to try eating gluten free and possibly plant based for a little while to see what it can do for me.

Finances

This year holds exciting opportunities for me as I will be studying abroad starting in January. To make my experience even better I will be working to save as much as I possibly can. I would like to work out a budget plan before I leave for school so I can stay on track.

This is just a small list of what I plan to focus on; and I'm sure as school gets nearer I will think of more, but for now I will leave it here.

Restaurant Spotlight: Marie Catribs, Grand Rapids MI

A few weeks ago, some of my old high school friends and I decided to go out for brunch at a Grand Rapids hotspot. I had never been to this delightful restaurant, but had heard only good things about it; and it did not disappoint. Catering to many different tastes and diets (vegan/vegetarian, gluten free), everyone is sure to find something to enjoy.

Not only is Marie Catribs a sit down restaurant, but it also has a take away counter full of delicious dips, salads, and baked goods. Featured here is their vegan and gluten free Turkish chocolate cupcake.

If you ever find yourself in the Grand Rapids area, be sure to stop in for a bite.

Food Lovin'

As the first few days of the semester have passed, I'm already beginning to feel those semester blues. Lot's of information, homework, tears, and money spent. With stress, obviously, comes stress eating. Stress eating can be pretty hard to avoid, especially with all of the unhealthy options in the cafeterias and markets. One thing that has really helped me stay on track with being healthy is meal prepping the night, or even two nights, before.


While perusing the internet, I came across this yummy little recipe for Maple French Toast Overnight Oats (original post can be found here). The good thing about overnight oats is that they hardly require any meal prep, and you can just grab them and go in the morning.

Ingredients Needed:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 banana
- 3/4 cup of milk
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon of maple syrup
- flax of chia seeds
- dark chocolate (optional)
- coconut (optional)

Just throw everything together in whatever container you have (mason jars are super cute!) and put it in the fridge overnight.

Enjoy.