Five Things

{Grits' customized Starbucks order}

Even though it's been a while since I've done a "five things" post, I recognize there's something about revisiting positive things that makes you feel instantly more grateful and fulfilled. I started reading "The Happiness Project" this week, and it's completely changed my perspective on what "happiness" really means. So far, I'm only three chapters in and I've been working on cutting clutter -- both physical and psychic (emotional)-- from my life. I have to say, it's refreshing. Here's to a happy and wonderful week. xx

{Grits, monogrammed socks + a great book}

{Pain au chocolat + cappuccino} 

{A tidy + bright workspace}

{Sunday breakfast}

My 10 Rules for Happiness

Generally, I'm a pretty happy person. It takes a lot for someone to get under my skin, and my outlook is generally optimistic. Recently, though, I've felt "off" and a little more anxious than usual. I think it's normal to get in these kind of funks, but embracing a few life changes definitely helps. Here's what's helped me lately:

1. Embrace your weaknesses
Every day, I'd tell myself that I'd exercise after work. But after a long day, all I wanted to do was make dinner and veg out. To combat this, I've started waking up early a few days a week to go to the gym. It's tough to wake up motivated, but I feel so much more energized and accomplished afterwards.

2. Take care of yourself
For me, that means trying to eat (relatively) healthy, drinking enough water and getting 8 hours of sleep. I notice all the difference when I take 10 more minutes in the morning to do my hair or pick out a cute outfit (Red lips are a confidence booster, y'all!).

3. Disconnect + Reconnect 
I'll be the first to tell you that I have an addiction to social media and technology. And I think we're all guilty of that on some level. I've been making more of a concerted effort to dial it back and be present when I'm with another person. There's nothing worse than having dinner with someone when they're on their phone (#guilty). Foster in-person relationships rather than Facebook ones.

4. Use a planner
I have an actual, old school planner that I write down my to-do lists, plans and appointments in. It's my lifeline and I don't go anywhere without it.

5. Find your 3 passions
One that makes you money, one that keeps you healthy, and one that challenges you creatively.

6. Take some time off
Use your vacation days. Even if you don't have the time or money to go to Europe, take a staycation. Watch Netflix in your bed all day or go to a coffee shop and read. Whatever. Just take time to relax.

7. Embrace rituals and routines
I've always been obsessed with baths. Whenever I'm sick or stressed, I always turn to hot water to heal me. I run a bath, put my phone in the other room, grab a magazine, pour yourself a glass of wine, light some candles and just relax in the hot water. Seriously, it's heaven on earth.

8. Do something by yourself
My Saturdays consist of treating myself to brunch, browsing the farmer's market, and sitting in a coffee shop with a good book. When I was single, I went everywhere (and did everything) by myself. And I absolutely loved it. Why? Because you can do what you love without having to worry if the other person is enjoying themselves. I'm trying to re-embrace that attitude and get back to doing the things I enjoy on a regular basis.

9. Clear the clutter
This one is so tough for me, because I'm not a particularly clean person by nature. I'm not dirty, but I'm messy. Clothes tend to pile up on my floors and dog toys are scattered all over the place. I like to think it's an organized mess, but it's really not. Lately, I've been setting a 15-minute timer each day and cleaning up. It's amazing how just a few minutes a day has changed my living situation (and state of mind) for the better.

10. Splurge (a little)
I have a friend who buys fresh flowers for her apartment every week because she says that they make her happy when she looks at them. Another friend subscribes to Birchbox because she looks forward to the surprise beauty products each month. For me, it's #7 on this list. Find a little thing that makes you happy and stick with it.


What are your rules for happiness?

What I'm Thankful for This Year

This Thanksgiving is a little bit different because I won't be going home to Florida. Starting a new job this year I just didn't have the vacation days to swing it (wahh!). But, alas, my boyfriend was nice enough to invite me to his family's farm in Brewton, Alabama. Apparently this place is pretty secluded (read: little to no cell service), but I think it will be nice to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life in the city for a weekend. Besides a place to spend the holiday, here's what I'm thankful for this year...

I'm thankful for my family

Because even from a thousand miles away, I can still feel their unwavering love and support every day. I don't know where I'd be without you two. 

I'm thankful for this guy

You've stood by my side for a year and a half of I love you's, I hate you's, and everything in-between. You make me laugh every single day and you make a mean breakfast sandwich. I think I'll keep you around, babe.

I'm thankful for my adventurous spirit

Because without it, I would never go 100 feet underwater, 18,000 feet in the sky, or pursue my dreams here on earth. 

I'm thankful for my friends

You're my second family that keeps me sane while simultaneously encouraging my shenanigans and general debauchery. For the different and amazing things you all bring to my life -- I love you.

I'm thankful for my fur baby

Grits Carlton -- you have more personality in your little tail than most people do in their entire body. Thank you for always running to the door when I get home, waking me up with kisses, and encouraging me to walk that extra mile (literally). Also, thank you for posing for pictures that you obviously hate and not killing me in my sleep. 

Ch-Ch-Changes

With the holidays right around the corner, I've been trying to budget and plan for gift-giving and party-throwing. Whew. Just writing that sentence got me a little frazzled.

I have a bachelorette party, a wedding, Thanksgiving, a cookie exchange party, and plenty of social events penciled in...all before Christmas. Keeping that looming madness in mind, I've been making a concerted effort over the past few days to reflect on this year.

I think that in our mid-20's, we get to a point where we wonder: what's next? Is this what I'm supposed to be doing? I know that I've doubted (on several occasions) whether I'm lining up my stones to take me down the "right" path (side note: what does "right" even mean anymore?)

Here's the beauty of it all, though: as humans, we have a way of landing on our feet no matter where life takes us. I've proved that to myself many, many times during my short 23 years of life.

This year in particular, I've learned so much about myself -- and I really think that has translated through my blog. While I used to associate myself with being a "fashion blogger", I learned that I'm definitely not. Even though I still appreciate a great outfit (and if you asked my boyfriend, he will tell you that I definitely have a shopping addiction), I realize that I enjoy blogging more about food and entertaining (and okay, looking damn cute doing it).

I can still tell you which designers make what, what's on-trend, and what the Pantone color of the year is...but, to me, it's purely voyeuristic. I can appreciate gorgeous garments, but I don't necessarily need to have them.

And if you gave me 30 minutes before work to put on my Sunday best or whip up an omelette, which do you think I'd choose? Hint: it's the latter.

So what does this odyssey have to do with On Miami Time?

First off, don't feel like you have to check off boxes. You can be a foodie and fashion blogger, or a mom and career woman, or a circus clown and a chef. Whatever. You don't only have to commit to one. Because you're you. And I'm me. And that's great in and of itself (cue guitar circle & Kumbaya sing-a-long).

And for the blog? Expect some changes. Yes, I will still feature some fashion and beauty looks. But I'm really hoping to diversify my content to reflect my current frame of mind. I'm really excited for the changes to come, because if life has taught me anything it's that change is always an opportunity for growth.

Current Obsessions

Eat// homemade cookie butter

Drink// Hibernating honey bear cocktail

Wear// This gorgeous green coat

Read// The horrible alternate ending to Pretty Woman

Browse// Your dog's horoscope. Go ahead and laugh, but Grits' was scarily accurate.

Five Things

Sorry I've been MIA lately. For the past few days, I've been in South Florida with my family. My boyfriend, Caleb, was nice enough to volunteer to watch my dog. And although Grits loves Caleb, he's definitely more of a mama's boy. In an attempt to protest me leaving, Grits created a garbage lair under my couch. He collected lint, coupons, bones and fortune cookie papers. I wanted to be mad, but how could you punish a face like that? Let's be real, guys, you can't. But his cute little face didn't stop me from leaving for Florida. Sorry, Gritsy!

{A gorgeous sunset from my plane window}

{My parent's puppies, Arnie (left) and Elvis (right). It's safe to say that I'm in love with these little furmonsters}

{Macaroons at a French restaurant. Pictured: coconut, pistachio, chocolate and lemon}

{Prosciutto, tomato, mozzerella and pesto on ciabatta. Also known as heaven on Earth.}

{Cuban coffee, puppy cuddles and this gorgeous view made it really hard to leave}

2014 Halloween Costume Inspiration

Growing up, Halloween was always a HUGE deal in my house. Like, it was second only to Christmas on the “Ritter’s most important holidays” list. Every year, my mom would throw a massive Halloween party. She would decorate to the nines with a graveyard in our front lawn (note: no one was actually buried, but it was awfully convincing), spider webs, smoke machines, black lights and a life-size grim reaper.

That’s not even the full extent, but you get the picture. Although I’ve moved away from home, Halloween still holds an important place in my heart. In my opinion, you’re never “too old” to dress up – and although I’m 23, I still look forward to picking out my costume every fall. 

Here’s my inspiration board for this year’s costume. Can you guess what I’m going to be? Hint: It's going to involve some seriously transforming makeup. I can't wait.

Five Things: Fall Edition

 
{Grits enjoying his puppacino from Starbucks}

Sorry for not blogging much lately! I promise I haven't left -- I've actually been brainstorming ways to make this blog even better. Expect some big changes, everyone!

I don't know about you, but the transition into fall has brought out my nesting instincts. I've been all about laying low, baking, cleaning, and hosting wine nights with friends. Also, the weather in Birmingham has been perfect for cracking the windows open and kicking back.

Here are some other things I've been enjoying lately...yes, I know pretty much all of them include Grits. #SorryNotSorry

{Loving the seasonal produce at the farmer's market}

 {Enjoying Sunday breakfast outside}

{Making an impromptu road trip to go pick pumpkins}

{The aforementioned pumpkins get a mod makeover}

Links I'm Loving

1. Looking for an impressive party trick? Here's how to saber champagne.

2. I'm really tempted to try this banana pudding martini. Alabama friends, rejoice.

3. I will definitely be drawing inspiration this year from these chic DIY Halloween decorations.

4. Apartment Therapy's best kitchen barn doors -- to say I'm obsessed with these would be the understatement of the century.

5. The cutest sneaker DIYs, ever. The cat emoji Keds will be my weekend project. Stay tuned.

Five Things

{Hummingbird watching on a neighbor's front porch}

Is it just me, or has the latter half of this summer flown by? I cannot believe that it's already September. I've packed the last few weekends with lots of baking, hiking and running around town. This weekend, I fully plan on lying low, catching up with friends and prepping my house for fall. Who's ready for cooler days and the fall holidays? I know I am.

{Urban oasis: graffiti spotting on a hike up Red Mountain}

{The beginnings of key lime pie. I cheated a little with pre-made juice}

{The best glass of Moscato d'Asti}

{Homemade baklava}

Lover.ly x Jaime

Let's be real -- every girl has thought about their wedding at some point. When lover.ly reached out to me to design my dream wedding using some of their items, I jumped at the chance. Even though I'm not planning on getting married anytime soon, I absolutely adore weddings. And if it was my big day, I'd opt for a romantic beach affair in my favorite place -- Key West, Florida.

Being from Florida, I loathe cliché beach weddings. They're a dime a dozen, and you won't be seeing any dried starfish or tacky 99 cent leis from this chick. I'm all about the relaxed, romantic and fun vibe that Key West puts out.

Temperley London "Laelia" wedding gown // Earrings // Ring // Clutch // Sandals // Dessy bridesmaid dress in "Oyster" // Statement necklace // Sandals // Reiss Como Suit (similar)
You can find most of these items on lover.ly

I kept the outfits pretty classic. I opted for a formal, but relaxed wedding gown with gorgeous floral detailing. To keep the look beach-friendly, I decided on a fun clutch and dressy sandals -- because who wants their heels digging in the sand when they walk down the aisle? No thanks. Although I kept the bridal party's outfits a pale gray, the bridesmaid's statement necklaces and the groomsmen's ties capitalize on the gorgeous, blue color of the ocean in the backdrop. This color combination reminds me of a walk on the beach first thing in the morning. I love, love, love it.

Now, enough of the mushy romance. On to the fun part -- the reception! Key West is all about having a good time, so guests would be greeted by our signature drink -- a mojito -- and a Cuban cigar. I'm not a big fan of cake and/or frosting (I know, I'm weird), so I'd definitely serve a key lime pie "cake" to go with the theme. When the guests get tired and want to kick off their dancing shoes, they can take a siesta in the hammocks and floor pillows that would be situated on the beach for them. 

I mean, who wouldn't want to go to this wedding?

What Robin Williams Taught Me

I don't usually comment on celebrity deaths, but the passing of Robin Williams really hit me. Rather than remembering him for the way he died, I choose to remember the laughs and life lessons his characters brought me over the years. Here are a few of my favorites...

The first movie I ever saw Robin Williams in was Aladdin. For weeks after, when my mom would wake me in the mornings, I'd quote the genie saying, "Did you rub my lamp? Did you wake me up? I don't think so!" We'd both laugh, and in a way, it made mornings easier. It taught me that a little bit of humor can make even the most miserable situations (like waking up early) better.

Jack was the second Robin Williams movie I saw. It's still one of my favorites, but it's somewhat eerie to read this quote postmortem. It reminds us to not take life to seriously because we only have one to live. Make your life spectacular, every single day. Which brings me to...

Dead Poet's Society is what originally got me interested in poetry and literature. I've always loved telling stories, but when I majored in journalism and English lit, many people tried to tell me things like "You'll never get a job" and "You'll never make any money doing that". I actually had a friend's dad hand me his business card and tell me, "Call me after college when you need  a job." I hate to break it to him, but I'm still writing -- successfully -- because I never stopped believing in myself. No matter what anybody tells you, words and ideas can change the world. (Carpe Diem, y'all) Never let anyone lead you away from your dreams, because...

Nothing is impossible. What Dreams May Come is my all-time favorite movie. To me, it's the most beautiful love story, because Robin Williams' character would literally go to Hell to save his wife. Even though everyone told him "No" and "You can't do that", he ultimately proved them wrong. There is nothing that can hold you back if you really want and believe in something.

In work and in life, people will (unfortunately) try to bring you down. But that doesn't mean you have to let them. It's easy to proverbially "sit in the mud puddle" and cry, but the more courageous option is to get up and try to find a solution. Patch Adams taught me that it's okay -- even great -- to be different. Molds are made to be broken and problems are meant to be solved. It just takes positive thinking and determination. 

I hate that we lost such an amazing actor and person. He played a genie, a nanny, a doctor, and more -- but I will always remember the role he has played in my life. 

What's your favorite Robin Williams movie? 

Five Things

{Grits cooling off in the stream post-hike/before we saw a giant snake and ran}

---

In an effort to savor the final, hot days of summer, I've been trying to get outside more. This weekend was spent at the farmer's market, gardening outside, lounging by the pool, and hiking/swimming with Grits. Here are some other things I enjoyed:

{Trying a variation of these mushroom and garlic pork chops}

{A gorgeous view from a friend's backyard}

{Grits' first haircut. He stayed clean for all of 24 hours}

{Dining al fresco with bubbly and a great magazine}