Best of September

Has it really been a month already? September has flashed, gone before I’ve had any time to process how truly great it has been.

I think the best part of the last few weeks has been a steady busyness. We’ve jam-packed our schedule in the best way possible—during the day, I’m working hard from my bedroom office, pajamas on, Wally by my side and laptop on the bed, doing my best to innovate and plan and stay organized for my clients. At night, I make a shift, either exercising or taking Wally on a walk, followed by a few episodes of relaxation with Chad after he finishes studying for his upcoming engineering exam.

On the weekends, we’ve had some fun. Salsa making with my parents, lone fall-themed adventures by ourselves, a few nights playing ping pong in our neighbor’s garage. There’s been movies and football and snuggles and lots of laughter.

I’d like to think that we’re figuring things out. How to be and stay balanced, how to coordinate this at-home life the best we can. I wish I could pause and stay here a while—nestle into our anniversary month, enjoy the beautiful fall colors a little longer, live in this sweet season for just a few moments more.

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

Monthly Favorites

Views: Fall in Colorado

It’s tradition for us to hop in the car and explore. We try to do as many fall-time drives as possible, and this route between Carbondale and Basalt didn’t disappoint.

Annual Event: Salsa Weekend

Our second family salsa weekend was a resounding success. We take our production seriously, with an early morning, assembly line, and taste-testing. The heat factor is cranked up, and this year we used lots of produce from my parents’ garden.

Fall Fun: Apple Picking

I’ve always wanted to go apple picking and was delighted to find a spot only minutes from my house. Orchard Creek Ranch was delightful. We had SO much fun!

Hero: RBG

Our county suffered a monumental loss with Ruth Bader Ginsberg. It wasn’t a shock or a surprise (the woman had cancer how many times?), but the blow was absolutely devastating. I thank RBG for her contributions to our country and for allowing me, and all women, to live our lives more fully and freely under the law. May her memory always be a blessing.

Restaurant: Tapatios

On our anniversary, Chad and I tried out a new restaurant in New Castle: Tapatios. Great food, large servings, delicious margaritas. We both got chimicanga plates and fell in love. We’ll be back, for sure!

Best Views: Balloon Fest

It’s hard to beat a blue sky full of hot air balloons, especially with a mountainous backdrop. The Snowmass Balloon Festival was a treat to behold from the comfort of our car.

Naughtiest Wally Moment

Our cute pup, Wally, has developed quite a naughty habit lately: he jumps up on our kitchen countertops. He’s lanky and tall, so it’s extremely easy for him. We caught him in the act the other day, and had a staring contest. I love him, very much.

New Client: Monica Goldstein Agency

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 social media management for the Monica Goldstein American Family Insurance Agency in Edwards, Colorado.

Local Politics: Yard Sign

Thanks to my involvement with the Garfield County Democrats, I have a greater understanding of how important the county commissioner race is. I’m proud to support one of the candidates, Beatriz Soto, with a sign in my front yard.

Small Business: Macrajane

If you’re looking to fill your home with macramé (very in and trendy right now), I highly recommend checking out pieces from Macrajane. This small business is owned by Alex, someone from my hometown who is talented and creative and has an interesting perspective for her art.

Fantasy Football Fun: Draft Video

We definitely waited until the very last day, but Chad and I put together a silly video to announce our fantasy football draft order. Chad’s the commissioner of our league, so we always try to do something fun. This year we had to involve Wally, our newest member.

Surprise Gift: Music City Getaway

Nashville Tennessee TN Drone Skyline Aerial Panorama.

I’m fully tooting my own horn on this one. For our anniversary, I surprised Chad with a weekend trip to Nashville. (Best wife ever? Maybe. ;)) I’m looking forward to early November!

On the Screen

How to Get Away with Murder
Gilmore Girls
The Crown
Parasite
Scandal
The Good Place (final season, now on Hulu!)
On the Basis of Sex
Hustlers
Stepmom
Marshall
The NBA Finals (go Nuggets)
NFL (go Broncos)

Snack: Yogurt Bowl

This was the treat of September: a bowl of non-dairy yogurt (I go with Silk-brand unsweetened vanilla), a half-cup of granola (I had the honey almond mix from Big Bear), and a few peanut butter chips. Protein packed, and (mostly) healthy. You can also mix fruit in, if you like the parfait style.