The little things that I love...

Life is a dynamic journey filled with a myriad of experiences, and at its core, it is about finding the delicate balance between work and play. Embracing moments of laughter, exploration, and relaxation rejuvenates the spirit. Here are the little things that I regularly do to make the most of life:

Reading

One of my favorite questions to ask is, "Do you have any book recommendations?" The written word has a unique ability to transport me to different times, places, and cultures, fostering empathy and compassion. Beyond mere escapism, reading stimulates my imagination, encouraging creative thinking and problem-solving skills.

Hosting

I thoroughly enjoy hosting dinners for my friends as it provides a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories in a warm and welcoming environment. Sharing a meal is a communal activity that fosters connection and strengthens friendships. I like to set the mood with a thoughtful playlist and I typically plate the food on pottery made by my talented mother.

Spending time in nature

Growing up in the Silicon Valley of California, I was surrounded by redwood trees, rolling hills and water. We would often drive 40 minutes to the beaches and redwood forests of Santa Cruz or drive the other direction a bit to go skiing during winter. My ideal day consists of going to Davenport Landing Beach and then making a stop at Swanton Berry Farms for a sweet treat. I love to go hiking, camping and fishing. I spent countless hours in my grandpa's garage making fake flies for fly fishing. I'm most proud of the time that I backpacked for two weeks in the Trinity Alps without a tent lead by a guy named Forest, true story!

Music

One of my favorite simple pleasures is playing the perfect song at the perfect time. Whether the song is just for myself while I walk through town, or for my fellow passengers on a road trip, music has the power to transform a moment into something special.

Coffee

My first job, when I was 16, was at Philz Coffee. Ever since, I've been hooked. I prefer to work from coffee shops, and have made a hobby of exploring them. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the ambient chatter create a comforting background, making it an ideal space for both solitude and socializing.

Yoga

I find great satisfaction in practicing yoga as it provides a harmonious blend of physical fitness and mental well-being. I was first introduced to yoga by my mother, who would generously take me to yoga classes. Yoga allows me to connect with my body, enhancing flexibility and strength while promoting a sense of inner balance. It serves as a personal journey of self-discovery, fostering a positive mindset and contributing to an overall sense of peace and vitality in my daily life.

Fashion

Clothing choices become a form of self-expression, enabling me to showcase my personality and unique style to the world. Fashion is a dynamic art form that keeps me inspired and engaged, offering a canvas to experiment with different looks and trends. Plus, the process of selecting outfits becomes a means of boosting my confidence and creating a positive self-image. Ultimately, my love for fashion stems from its ability to empower, inspire, and shape my identity in a visually captivating way.

08 Geology

I've loved rocks and crystals for as long as I can remember. As a child, I had countless books about geology that I would flip through for hours. In fact, I named my pet turtle "Tourmaline" after one of my favorite crystals. Studying rocks, minerals, and the Earth's structure allows me to unravel the mysteries of our planet's formation and evolution over millions of years. Geology is like a captivating puzzle, where each layer of sediment and every geological feature unveils a story of the Earth's past. I have a cherished collection of rocks and crystals that I occasionally add to. I will likely continue this hobby for the rest of my life!