Fall has always been my favorite season. It kicks off the holidays and is always filled with celebrations, family time and memories that last a lifetime. The start of this season was no different. It started with a trip to Colorado to celebrate my dad’s birthday during the first official weekend of fall. That celebration was followed by one for my friend, Natasha. We spent the day at Wilson Creek Winery before heading back to Orange County for more fun. The next weekend was time to celebrate me. Although my birthday fell on a Sunday, it did not stop the celebration.
Read MoreWilson Creek Winery: What you should know before you go, enjoy your stay /
On Saturday, October 5th a group of seven 20 somethings, including myself, packed a picnic basket and took a drive from Orange County, California to Temecula Valley commonly known as Wine Country for a birthday celebration.
A first-time experience for many of the ladies, the visit started with fellowship and a few bottles of Almond Sparkling Wine and snacks followed by a photo tour of the vineyards and a trip to the bar for more sips. With a preference for the sweeter things in life, I stuck to sparkling wines (champagnes) and listed my favorite options in addition to tips to prepare for the dust, beat the crowds, fuel the fun.
Read MoreTop three highlights from my weekend in Colorado /
September 25 is always a bitter sweet date for my siblings and I. It’s the day that my parents entered the world, one year apart. After my mom lost her battle with cancer, September 25 began to take me on an emotional rollercoaster. In one moment I’m extremely grateful for the amazing parents I have and I feel happy and blessed. In another I feel my mom’s loss heavily, mourn her death and think about how much different and better my life would be if she was still here. One of the greatest lessons I learned from her death is that though it may be painful and challenging, life goes on. In that spirit, my siblings and I were fortunate enough to plan a trip to Denver, CO to celebrate with my dad. Below are my favorite experiences from our short trip in Colorado.
Read More5 Tips to use and maximize work breaks /
During my retail career and my time at United Way, social media was an escape from work, and I often turned to one of the many apps during my breaks. Now that I’ve transitioned to my current position at TGR Foundation writing and social media are major functions of my role, and now I need an escape from them.
There have been many studies and experts who attest to the need for breaks during the day, not to mention the right granted by law. Everyone who works a 40-hour work week should take a minimum of three breaks during the day including two paid rest breaks and one meal break lasting 30 minutes to an hour. While these periods and the time granted vary across different states, companies and organizations, there is usually a similar standard. See your employee handbook or the state labor and employment guidelines for specifics. Below are some activities to clear your mind, maximize your time and achieve productivity on your next break that have worked for me; walks and word puzzles are two of my favorites.
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