Best of August - Sunshine with Savannah

For me, August was a month of pause, relaxation, and rejuvenation. I was able to step back, recenter, and re-frame. This was done through special family time, a stay-cation away from work, a (short) break from home projects, a few extra hours invested into binge-watching television, and many puppy snuggles.

Burn-out is real. I was feeling it. So, I made the decision to remove myself from things that were consuming me and engulfing my being with stress and negativity.

In addition to my own stresses of owning my business and trying to balance new challenges, the world felt extra on-fire. The unnecessary killing of Black people. The embarrassment of the US government’s handling of COVID. The ongoing climate crisis that has resulted in dystopian wildfires raging in my own backyard (smoke was seeping into our home, and we literally had to spend the night elsewhere to escape). I did what I could to compartmentalize and briefly remove myself from my worries.

And what a privilege that is. To be able to ignore and disassociate myself from major issues is something I refuse to take for granted. I can do this because of the systems I’ve benefited from and inherited.

With this break, I’m able to jump into the next month stronger, more vigilant, listening, and ready to take on what I can. I’m thankful for the family memories I made, the sunshine I chased, the art I consumed, the calories I ate (and drank), and the success, confidence, security, and comfort I felt.

And with that, here are my top picks for the month of August.

Monthly Favorites

Beachy Escape: Highline Park

We came, we swam, we picnicked. Highline State Park was a great escape, away from Grand Junction’s heatwave. As far as Colorado beaches go, this one is a big winner.

Meal: Mom’s Enchiladas

My mom strikes again with her gourmet cooking. I’m not exaggerating when I say that my mom is extremely talented in the creative cooking department, and knocks it out of the park with her creations. I was lucky enough to get some vegan sweet potato enchiladas this month, along with a risotto-inspired side dish, and they were sooo good.

Online Ordering: Chewy

For any pet owners out there, I highly recommend Chewy.com for ordering supplies for your furry (or feathered, scaled, or even bald) loved one. We were able to upgrade Wally’s food (and stock up on treats) really easily and with free shipping. I highly recommend them.

Guilty Pleasure: Twilight

When I heard Chad had never watched (or read, for that matter) the Twilight series that captivated my youth and shaped my teenage culture, I pleaded with him until he agreed to a mini-marathon. So, we watched. Like me, he’s definitely Team Edward.

Youtube Video: Ashley Kim

I don’t like to admit it, but I’m bad at getting into Youtube. Aside from early 2007 videos of babies biting fingers and parody songs and skits (remember “Shoes“?!), I really haven’t evolved in my use. However, there’s always one person I always watch. Ashley Kim, who I used to work with at my college newspaper, is so fun to follow and she makes really great vlog videos. Check out her channel here.

Super Fun Activity: Family Photos

Since the whole family was together, my parents hired a professional photographer. It was a blast! Thank you to Drop Anchor Productions for the gorgeous pictures set in the Colorado National Monument.

Winery: Maison La Belle Vie Winery

Maison La Belle Vie Winery in Palisade, Colorado is a great place for an afternoon drink, meat and cheese platter, or macaroon treat. We loved this scenic vineyard.

Song: WAP

I’m loving “WAP”

Okay, this song (by Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion) is a little raunchy so I’ll keep things short and sweet: I’m all about this catchy and vibrant song, along with female empowerment and ownership of sexuality. It’s been stuck in my head and I love that for me.

New Client: Garfield County Democrats

New client alert! I’m so happy and proud to announce that my business (content writing services, Sunshine Creatives LLC) has a new client! I’m officially taking over the Garfield County Democrats‘ social media. I’m especially exciting about this because I feel as though I can make a difference on a local level, where change is best accomplished.

Weekend Getaway: Trapper’s Lake

Chad and I ran away to the mountains, where we filled a weekend with hiking, cabin sleeping, card playing, lake swimming, and digital detoxing. It was refreshing, and I’m looking forward to our return.

Miracle: Hanging Lake Untouched by Fire

This mysterious log remains suspended in the water at Hanging Lake.

If you haven’t heard, Colorado has been ravaged by wildfires this month. The Grizzly Creek Fire, only half-an-hour or so away from my home, took over Glenwood Canyon. It closed down the interstate for a record-long two-weeks and moved with crazy force. It also passed through the world-famous Hanging Lake area. Miraculously, the fire didn’t seem to damage the lake. This is incredible, and filled me with so much hope and gratitude. I’m so glad that this gem was preserved. <3

Spontaneous Purchase: Inflatable Pool

I finally did it. I found and bought an inflatable pool for my back yard, and I have zero regrets. I think Chad will eventually come around to it too, though I’m not holding my breath. 😉

Quick Adventure: Rifle Falls

My family took a quick visit to Rifle Falls, and it was as picture-perfect as ever. The gushing falls are a tropical escape in the middle of an otherwise desert environment.

On the Screen