How I've Learned To Juggle a Blog and a Job

It's no secret that I've had a busy past couple of months and one thing that I've definitely learned is the importance of time management. In college I was pretty good at managing my time, but in some ways my time was much easier to manage in college. In other words, my life was much more compartmentalized in college. I had class during certain hours of the day on set days, my weekends and nights were the time to spend with my friends and socialize, and my free hours during the weekdays were spent doing my course work. I also spent some time working on this blog, however it was more at the discretion of my schedule and while I always enjoyed writing, I would take periodic breaks if I had too much school work or I just felt like I needed a break. 

Since college this blog has become more of a priority and I want to dedicate more and more of my time to creating the best content I can. That said I have to juggle writing for this blog and a full time job, which can be challenging. I absolutely love my job and I would not trade it for anything, but it can be hard to find time to balance both working most days and writing, without sacrificing my social life. When I was in school it was much easier to put the blog on the back burner and not feel bad about it, but now I feel an intense feeling of guilt if I don't get at least one post up per week. 

One of the best strategies that I have taken on since starting work and getting this blog back to where I want it to be, is to be extremely realistic with your time. For me that means that I don't try to plan to write four or even three posts a week, even if that's what I'd love to do in a perfect world. I see a lot more value in getting a couple or even just one well-written and thought out posts, rather than none because I'm too overwhelmed by looking at my editorial calendar. I fall more into the category of a slow blogger, and I'm totally ok with that because I know that while I'm not pushing as much content as others (and therefore maybe not getting as many views or gaining as many followers), I can be assured that the content I do create is meaningful and of a certain quality. 

Going along with being realistic with time, planning and working ahead of time has proven to be absolutely essential in keeping my blog running whilst I work. I have become much better about not only writing all my ideas for blog posts in my notebook and making a coherent editorial calendar, but also including posts and their due dates in my everyday planner so that I am constantly reminded of their due dates. Before when I just designated my blog content to a notebook, it was really hard for me to be reminded that a post was due because it was out of sight and out of mind most of the time. So much of my content is also connected to pictures, which was the thing that really held me back at times from getting posts published. Luckily Brad has been a huge help with taking photos for me. While I used to take photos for one blog post at a time, I plan ahead more and try to shoot for multiple posts on one day, so all I have left to do later in the week is write.

Finally, because I do most of my writing on my days off, it has become extremely important to change up my environment for when I need to get things done. While I love working at my desk at home, I can also fall into the trap of feeling like since its my day off and I'm at home that I have time to binge watch Gossip Girl instead of getting things written. (In fact, as I'm writing this I am at a coffee shop now and have managed to write this post approximately 5x faster than I would have at home). Some people have a hard time working in more public places like a coffee shop, but for me it really helps me get more work done. I feel less inclined to procrastinate, because I feel like people are watching what I'm doing on my computer (which they most likely are not) and therefore feel motivated to get my shit done instead of watch funny cat videos. It also helps to have background noise that isn't a TV show or a Spotify playlist, because while I love listening to those things while I work they can be more distracting than not, but I also find it impossible to work in silence. 

I'm definitely not in the perfect place that I want to be with my workflow, but I've definitely gotten much better at planning and managing my time than I had done at the beginning of the summer. My blog will always be a work in progress, and now that I've begun to accept that it won't be perfect, it's made it a much easier task to manage. 

My Month in Film | September 2017

I know it's cliched but I cannot believe that September is over and it is officially autumn! It's something I'm very excited about, but it is crazy just how fast this summer went by considering how much has happened in such a short period of time. September was a pretty busy month, I've been working a ton and have been loving every minute of it, but that also means that I don't have as much time to go out and about in the city. I love these images and while they aren't the most exciting, they are representative of the quieter moments during an incredibly busy month. 

This photo is blurry, which bummed me out but I had to mention that Brad and I went to Petit Crenn earlier in the month. It was the hottest day of the year and it was absolutely miserable weather but the food was insanely good. I would highly recommend going if you find yourself in San Francisco willing to spend some $$ on a really nice dinner. 

While I haven't had too many free weekends this past month it's been so nice to just go on a walk on a Saturday morning and get coffee, my favorite coffee shop being Four Barrel on Valencia (pictured here). 

Wandering through one of my favorite wooded parts of Golden Gate Park to shoot some content!

Getting so excited about the cooler weather and the leaves changing color, I just can't shut up about it.

One of the film shots Brad took in the midst of shooting part of the Transitional Pieces blog post that went up last weekend.

Most of our down time has been spent going on walks, which is something I missed so much about living here. We walked around Ocean Beach and the western part of Golden Gate Park by the windmills one morning. It's easily one of the best hidden gems in the city. 

The Divisadero Art Walk happened earlier in the month, and while the art walk itself was somewhat lackluster, the trip to Bi-Rite for ice cream was not. 

Spent a lot of time walking through Hayes Valley this month and looking in at all the amazing shops in the neighborhood.

Brad was particularly proud of this outfit (as was I) and insisted I document it on film. 

I picked up a few bits from MAKE Beauty, a brand I have been curious about for a while now and I am thoroughly impressed. I got the lipstick in Scarlet and the Defining Mascara, which I will talk more about it an upcoming blog post. I definitely want to buy more from the range!

I have a weird obsession with the BBQ sign from 4505 next to the auto garage along Divisadero. 

Alamo Square park was recently renovated and I finally took the time to go and see it. While this is such a touristy destination, the area surrounding it really isn't but is completely worth wandering around in.

Felt like a very cliched version of a French girl walking around the city with my bread in hand wearing a Breton stripe shirt. 

Brad and I went to the Big Book Fair put on by the SF Public Library at Fort Mason one Sunday and while we didn't find any books we had the best time just walking along the Marina Green and people watching. 

I got a new Eames Vortex style chair for my desk and it has made me want to sit at my desk so much more. I am definitely working bit by bit on making small changes to my room, which I will most likely update you all on in an upcoming post. 

One of my favorite intersections (weird thing I know) at Church and Market on a sunny morning. 

Reflecting On This Summer

I've not kept it a secret on this space that this summer has been pretty crazy and life-changing. It's something that I have consistently mentioned in my month in film posts, but while I've mentioned it a lot its not a topic I've dove too much into. That is mainly because when I was writing all of those posts I was in the thick of it. In other words, I didn't feel like I was fully on the other side of things to be able to process them fully in a post and truly be able to reflect on all the changes. I definitely anticipated this summer being a hefty one back in spring, when I wrote a post all about my thoughts on graduating from college. Although, I did not acknowledge the intense nervousness I had been feeling about the prospect of leaving school, which has been my comfort zone for the vast majority of my life.

I'd be lying if I didn't acknowledge the fact that this summer got off to a rocky start. Graduation itself was one of the most stressful days not only because of all the intense emotions of the ceremony itself, but because of the fact that the day is all about the graduate, and for someone who does not like being the center of attention that can be very stressful. Not to mention the fact that most of my family was in town for the event (whom I love and appreciate very much), it was easily the hottest day of the year at that point, and I was in the process of packing up my little studio apartment at school and moving in the midst of it all. And just like that I was thrust back into city life, constantly applying for jobs, going to interviews, all while trying to catch up with friends who had moved back, and maintain my relationship. Needless to say it was a bit overwhelming. 

In the midst of applying to jobs and the all-too-often rejection email, I felt myself massively in crisis about what I wanted to do with my career and in what direction I was heading. It was incredibly disheartening and confusing, especially for a person who has always had a plan and a clear sense of herself. However, the constant during this entire summer, in terms of my professional interests has been this blog, creating content, and photographing what inspires me. I tried my hardest to at least post once a week (which I failed at the past two weeks), which felt like the most constant motivation I've had in a long time. After applying to job after job, it became clear to me that I needed to take a break, reset, and really think about what I want my career to look like or even be without the distraction of being in the cycle of job applications, interviews, and rejection emails. I applied for a retail job as a source of income, which I ended up loving, submitted an application for a part time internship writing for a San Francisco-based magazine, got both jobs and finally felt my life fall into place. While I never saw myself liking retail (I have worked in retail for a temporary summer job during college and liked it but always found it a tad difficult since I am naturally introverted), I have absolutely loved it. 

While it sounds über cheesy I think if anything I've learned this summer that I just need to give myself time. I can't and don't need to have everything figured out at once, and rushing to find your place in the world is a very temporary, and can be an ultimately unfulfilling solution. I still don't know where I'll be in ten or even five years but I'm more okay with that than I've ever been before. Rather than the uncertainty making me feel anxious, it makes me feel excited. Luckily I have two jobs that I love and am 100% committed too and family and friends that are completely supportive of wherever I end up career-wise. Every summer during my college years felt like the months where everything changed and this summer felt no different. Last summer I was in one of the worst places I've been with my personal life and this summer I went through an equally stressful period in my professional life. However, I've come out the other end (from both summers) with a better understanding of myself and what I want as I continue the albeit rough transition into adulthood. 

My Month in Film | August 2017

I feel like I've begun every one of these month in film posts by saying how insane the past month has been. That was definitely true for August, and just about this whole period in general. With graduating, moving back to my hometown, getting settled, seeing friends, being on the job hunt, it feels like every month there has a lot to reflect on. I'm definitely starting to feel more settled and I know once September finishes, it will really hit me that I am here for good. While August has been a pretty hectic month, all of the changes are definitely things to be excited about. 

This top, which I've been borrowing from my mom, has been a real staple this past month. Because its rayon its super easy to wash and it looks incredible with straight leg jeans, like my beloved vintage Levi 501s which are pictured here.

Before my boyfriend and I started work we headed up to Napa during a weekday with one of my best friends to go wine tasting. It was easily one of the best days of this entire summer and we spent the majority of our time laughing to near tears. This particular photo is of the gardens of the French Laundry, which are definitely worth going to if you ever find yourself in Napa. 

My boyfriend's sister came into town at the beginning of the month and we took full advantage of my SFMoMA membership and went to the Edvard Munch exhibit, which I would highly recommend. I am in love with the views from the giant windows in the SFMoMA. 

We also spent a considerable amount of time wandering around the main exhibits, which I've seen about five times, but still have not gotten old. 

Most of the month has been pretty cloudy, which is getting me so excited for Fall and Winter weather. Although, as I am writing this we are currently going through a record-breaking heat wave. 

I am going to start featuring one picture in these posts of my favorite beauty products of the month in order to pay homage to where this blog began. I've been loving the Glossier Cloud Paints in Beam and Haze mixed together and the Glossier haloscope for a super natural dewy sheen. Most of my eye looks have been consisting of either just the Fairydrops Platinum Mascara on its own, or with a bit of MAC Groundbreaker pencil, or with a touch of Tom Ford Cream Color for eyes in Platinum on the lids. I've also been using the NARS Soft Matte Complete concealer, which has quickly become one of my favorite concealers of all time. 

One of my favorite parts of moving back to San Francisco has been the farmers markets. I love going to farmers markets early on a weekend morning or being able to stop by one after work.

Me and my boyfriend, Brad, at Off The Grid in the Presidio. 

The Off the Grid at the Presidio is definitely my favorite of the food truck gatherings. It's basically like one giant picnic and one of the most relaxing things to do on a Sunday with family. 

My family brought a little half-tent for the sun and when I was about to go in it, Brad snapped a very candid shot of me. I'm surprised it turned out as ok as it did. 

One of my favorite little coffee shops in the Mission, Fayes, also shares my last name. They also always have the best chalk signs outside.

Bought some pretty incredible green suede boots from Madewell, which I have already been wearing relentlessly and will continue to do so through Autumn and Winter. 

An outfit from a dinner date with Brad, which consisted of a Topshop Blouse which I bought in the Nordstrom Sale, Madewell jeans, and those Madewell boots.

The Zen Center in San Francisco is easily one of my favorite-looking buildings in the city. I am a bit obsessed with brick buildings!

Been going to Boba Guys a bit too much this month. 

Gonna take quick moment to gush about this guy right here, he's had a pretty crazy month of starting work all while continuing to be the most supportive person I could hope to have at my side. He's also been encouraging me to put time into this blog and has been helping out in order for me to do so.

Went to the Friday night Off the Grid with my sister and Brad's roommate. I took this snap of my sister while we were standing in line for food. 

The neon sign for Off the Grid is very instagram-worthy.

Another favorite outfit combo of the month: vintage cashmere sweater from Courtyard LA and Levis Wedgie Fit Jeans. 

Three Candles That Won't Break The Bank

I am absolutely obsessed with candles. I am not however, obsessed with the price of most nice candles. Don't get me wrong, smelling a Byredo, Jo Malone, or Diptyque candle can most aptly be described as ascending into heaven, but I have a near impossible time justifying the $70-ish price tags. Luckily there has been a surge of affordable (they aren't super cheap but significantly less than $70) candles on the market that not only burn incredibly well, but also have really complex and sophisticated scents that are very reminiscent of the higher-end candle options. Its worth noting that all of these brands of candles have a solid range of scents and while I am recommending specific scents, its worth giving the other scents in these ranges a whiff. 

One of the longest standing companies in my candle rotation is P.F. Candle Co. These candles range from $18-24 depending on where you buy them. One of the best fragrances in the range is Black Fig, which I think can be burned both in the warmer and cooler months because it has the fruitiness that you want when its warmer and the spicy and woodsy notes you want when its cooler. These candles also have a total burn time of 40-50 hours, which makes it a great value per ounce.

If there's one candle that is incredible just from a aesthetics perspective its got to be Boy Smells Cedar Stack. All of the Boy Smells candles come in the most amazing millennial pink boxes and are housed in a black glass jar with a pink label. Looks aside though, the fragrances themselves are incredible. Cedar Stack in particular is my favorite scent in the range because it has a really woodsy but fresh scent. I think the best way to describe it would be a sophisticated Christmas smell, because it has those woodsy aspects of a typical "Christmas" candle, without being over powering or generic smelling. Boy Smells candles are priced at a fairly reasonable $29 for a 8.8 oz. (which is the same size as a Byredo candle for more than half the price).

Last but absolutely not least is Maison Louis Marie No. 4 Bois de Balincourt. I think this has become my favorite candle, almost overnight. If you have ever smelled Le Labo's Santal 33, which is perhaps one of the most recognizable scents at the moment, then you will know exactly what this smells like. It's also half the price of the Le Labo option. I think that this scent is best suited for Autumn and Winter because it is very woodsy and almost leathery smelling. It is $34, but I think it is absolutely worth it because of how sophisticated and complex the fragrance it.