#WinterBreakGoals

Something changed me this past school term, and not in a good way.

Between taking full-time classes, diving head first into a new role at work, and trying to juggle more than a handful of extracurricular activities, I began to find myself in a tough spot mentally. Between the late nights, incredible amounts of stress, and heaps of uncertainty, I began to lose sight of the things that really matter in life. The one true thing that I strive to achieve in my purposefully busy life seemed impossible to grasp -- true happiness.

With some much-needed personal time and reflection, I have been able to slowly work my way back to my old self. Even though I hate saying "no" to things and am constantly looking for more things to add to my schedule (I'm the type who loves being busy -- my planner is defs my BFF!), I've realized that cutting some things out and taking some time off is essential to healthy, happy living.

Although I'll still be working almost every day this winter break, I still want to make sure I take care of myself and squeeze in as much fun as possible while I have some free time! And although I'm trying to stay as far away from a set schedule this month as possible, it doesn't hurt to map out the fun stuff I want to enjoy this winter ;).

• Redecorate my room. I recently found some MAJOR Pinterest inspiration, so I'm enjoying having some time to DIY a room that is the perfect relaxing sanctuary for homework, studying, napping, sleeping, and free time!
• Go to the beach. This may seem like a strange one given that I live in Oregon (and given that it has been absolutely FLOODING lately), but I absolutely LOVE the beach during the colder months. It's so quiet and peaceful and refreshing walking along the shoreline all bundled up, admiring the hectic waves rocking along the coast. Pure bliss.
• Go to Zoo Lights. If you're not from around here, Zoo Lights is this incredible lights display that takes place at the Oregon Zoo every year! It's so fun and romantic walking along the zoo at night or riding the train through the park while munching on an elephant ear.
• Enjoy the holidays with friends and family.
• Have a killer New Years Eve. This is the first NYE since I turned 21, so I'm looking forward to ringing in the new year in Downtown Portland with friends! In lots and lots of sequins, of course!
• Work out. Maybe I'll save this one for the new year... ;)
• Go ice skating. Does this count as working out?
• Get lost in Downtown Portland. I miss my hometown, so I'm looking forward to going back for a few days to revisit my old fave hangouts and to discover new ones.
• Redesign my blog. I've actually already completed this one for the most part -- what do you guys think?! I had actually considered a HUGE overhaul, including changing hosts and even the name of my brand, but as of right now I think I'm pretty happy with it. SF+D has certainly come a long way since I launched this baby almost 1 year ago! P.S. Maybe a giveaway is coming up to celebrate... Stay tuned;)
  

I'm sure I'll keep adding to this list, but all-in-all I just want to make sure I'm having fun and being as happy as possible. Good vibes only going into the new year.

xoxo,
Lara