ALIXROSE

How do you self-care?

2019-07-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

Is making time to be creative the new self-care?

I played the trumpet for 10 years, I was in at least 3 different choirs for 11 years, I wrote poems, short stories, long stories and tried to draw even though I hated everything that came to life on my paper. I took photos, I made short videos, spent hours in photoshop, started a blog, started a creative collective and now... well now I try to find time to go to yoga.

Is this adulting? You give up a few things, so you can work, cook your meals, do laundry, see your friends and your family.

The last few months I've been restless. I stopped reading, writing and singing for me years ago. My blog became like a hustle instead of an outlet, so I found myself taking longer and longer timeouts.

What I've realized is that self-care for me doesn't just mean spas or exercise. It also means finding time to nurture the part of me that needs something fulfilling and creative outside of my normal. When I'm "relaxing" at a spa or in yoga class my mind always wanders off to all of the things I want to do. I want to learn how to play the piano, I want to be better at taking photos and I miss writing. You don't know how many times I've put together a whole blog post in my head while I'm in mountain pose. I came up with the headline and the first paragraph of this post in yoga class last week.

When we were kids and in college, we were told to open books, join sports, sign up for workshops - take time to discover who you are, try new things. When you join the workforce you have to think about paying rent and career moves. It's part of growing up, but you shouldn't push the creative part of you that you set fire to for most of your life.

I can't do it all now, but there's always first steps. #selfcare

New Glasses: Meet Jane

2019-07-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to wear these glasses.
My eyes have been severely strained for the last few months, but if I'm being honest my eyes have been tired for maybe a few years.
It's only in the last few months that I realized I needed to do something about it. That's where these Warby Parker glasses come in.
I don't need prescription glasses, but my doctor did recommend getting readers. It's just enough to take the strain off my eyes when looking at my three screens for 8 hours. I also decided to make them blue light glasses. They're supposed to help protect your retinas from the blue light of your computer screen. Blue light has been associated with eye issues such as eye strain and blindness.

The hardest part was trying to find glasses that fit my face. I'm only used to sunglasses, so it took a few trips into Warby Parker before I walked away with these.

They're clear with just a touch of color, which is what I wanted. I didn't want my frames fighting my lipstick color. LOL!

Should you go to the Blue Lagoon? Yes.

2018-11-08T06:00:00.000-08:00

We did our research on this and everything we read said to go on your way from the airport or on the way to the airport. We decided against this. We specifically wanted to be there for sunset, this meant we went on our second day in Iceland. And it was the best, I wasn't tired from traveling and the fact that I didn't have to dress for the plane or worry about how to get to my Airbnb was the best.We did the comfort level that came with a face mask, a towel, and a free drink. The other levels came with robes and other masks, but I didn't feel cheated. It was perfect.

There were a lot of people, but it didn't feel crowded. Charli did bring her big cameras and we took the first 30 minutes to take photos and video. We were able to keep a backpack by the edge of the pool and we took turns getting out in the freezing cold to take photos of each other, and shout out to the Blue Lagoon attendant for taking a photo for us. Once we got a few shots, we locked up the backpack and relaxed.

The water is warm, but if you get close to the rocks its hot. You don't get your own towel hook, it's a free for all. So I'm pretty sure the towel I hung up was mine, but really I have no idea. LOL! They say not to put your hair in the water, I put my hair in the water. I also put in a lot of conditioner before and for a few days after. It doesn't damage your hair, it just gives it some texture.

We spent a total of two hours there, it was the perfect amount of time. So, should you go to the Blue Lagoon? Yes.

photos by @TophatsandTea

Two Gowns In Iceland

2018-11-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

It wouldn't be an Alix and Charli girls trip without a proper shoot. We knew we wanted a little more drama this trip, so when I saw this dress on Rent the Runway I knew I had to wear it - and I knew I had to wear it in Iceland.

We had grand plans, but the weather changed all that for us. But I'm super happy with how this still came out. It was our last full day in Iceland and we were faced with a now or never moment. It was also super cold, but we wouldn't be in Iceland with these dresses again. So we sucked it up.

We also happened to have the most perfect backdrop in our Airbnb backyard. It offered us the moodiness and the mountains, what more could we ask for.

The wind was flipping our hair, the cold was pricking our skin and the crazy long day created our tired eyes, but it all seemed to work together.

We also happened to be watching the Haunting of Hill House every night while we were there and I think you can kind of see that in these photos. Right?

photos by @TophatsandTea

That's So Iceland: I've Never Been So Cold

2018-11-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

I was cold in all of these photos, but now that just makes me laugh. We had grand plans, but Iceland had its own idea. The truth is, you don't know what to expect until you get there, but there are some classic moments that are just inherently Iceland.

I got splashed by a Geyser and survived. Yes, I've seen this on instagram, but there's nothing like experiencing it in person. It was of course raining and I was so cold that my teeth were chattering, but it was worth it.

I thought standing around a geyser was the coldest I had ever been in Iceland, but Gullfoss won hands down. First of all, I can't believe they let you get so close to the edge, and we went as close as they would let us. The closer you get the wetter you get, but if you're going to do it - you have to be all in. It took a few pep talks from Charli for me to lean into it. It's a pretty amazing spot and even though I was miserable on the surface, I was laughing on the inside. If you have the chance to go, go and don't give into fear and stay up above, go all the way down to the edge and the let the waterfall give you wet kisses.

When you rent a car, you get to stop whenever you want and these are a few of my favorite stops. We found a random mini waterfall to climb, a tiny bridge to cross, made friends with horses and more.

At the end of the day, we know our trip only gave us a glimpse at everything that Iceland has to offer.

Photos by @TophatsandTea

Iceland Trip: 6 Things You Should Know

2018-11-05T06:00:00.000-08:00

Iceland has been on my bucket list, but I probably wouldn't have made it there without a little push/shove from Charli. She had a vision for moody photos and I am seriously always ready to help her make her creative ideas come true. We've been friends for over 10 years, we're birthday twins and I know she's always down to take just one more photo. We're also super dorky and we tend to bring that out in each other, guaranteed fun.

We were a little late in planning, I recommend putting time into figuring out what you want to do, so you can get the most out of your time. We decided not to tour it and for us, that was the best thing we could have done. Iceland is beautiful everywhere and we wanted to have the option to pull over whenever we were captured by its beauty. The only con is that we ended up driving a lot - hours a time. It was exhausting, which meant less time for us to edit at the end of the day. But I wouldn't have traded it. I also wouldn't have gone in October, it's one of the rainiest months of the year. Not exactly the best thing for taking photos. It probably wouldn't have been that bad, but when it was mixed with the wind I felt cold in my bones. The first two days were hard for me, but when you decide to just lean into the cold you can at least take 20 more photos. LOL!

We decided to stick with one Airbnb this time, this trip was very different from Joshua Tree, it was more about outside photos then inside. And to be honest Iceland's Airbnb's don't compare to Joshua Tree's options. I do happen to think we found the cutest tiny house in all of Iceland. It was nestled in the middle of a valley that was a gift to wake up to every morning, more on that in another blog post.
Packing, well my packing was very different from your average going to Iceland packing. But of course, my last minute items were the ones I lived in.

My oversized raincoat was key to surviving. It fit over my layers and went to my knees, which meant I stayed dry for the most part. I also purchased my first hiking boots for this trip, I know I know as a person who grew up in PNW this may come as a surprise, but I didn't grow up hiking, so I never needed them. But you do need them here. I also packed my wedge Sorrel boots, they were also a must. I also broke down and bought a pair of gloves, after using Charli's extra pair. It's amazing how much you can take when you have warm hands. Did I overpack for this trip? Definitely, but that's just my way.

And an extra tip.
If you come across a gas station, stop. Get coffee, grab a snack and use the restroom. You may not come across another one for 20 miles.

To recap.

Top destinations
Decide where you want to go first, top priorities and then choose your lodging. You want to be centralized.

Add an extra day
I really wish we had one more day. We never made it to a glacier, we just needed one more day.

Time of year
If you're going there to take pictures October is probably not your best month. Unfortunately, that was the only time our schedules aligned.

Pack accordingly
Raincoat, hiking boots, sweaters, and gloves.

Rent a car vs Tour
We wanted the option to stop where we wanted, but this can be a little expensive. Do your research on renting premiums and gas. Also, some rental companies give you a fab that when used at a gas station gives you one free coffee everytime you stop. I used it often.

Car WIFI
This is not only useful for adding stories on instagram, but GPS is key to reaching your destinations. We would find ourselves headed home in the dark, there would be no streetlights and sometimes no signs for miles at a time. I think we would still be lost in Iceland without it.

To be fair our Iceland adventure was very different from other people's. We went there with the specific intent to create. This didn't take away from our trip, because we still took time to enjoy where we were.

If you have any questions feel free to reach out at alix@alixrose.com

Photos by @TophatsandTea

Not Always What It Seems: Summer Out of the Box Style

2018-08-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

This may seem like a typical outfit for you, but for me, this was a little out of my box. I never wear long dresses, wrap dresses or something so low cut. I also never wear anything that is a little bit country.

But sometimes you have to be bold.

The shoes were more for an occasion. I was going to an anniversary party for my Godparents that had a slight country theme. So, when I saw these shoes on Vici Dolls I thought they would be perfect. And they were. But I can safely say I would have scrolled right past them if I hadn't been going to a country party.

What surprised me is that I ended up wearing them a few more times, they go perfectly with short dresses. And the fact that they're more of an off-white/grey color keeps it from being too western. Now, don't get me wrong the country style is not something I'm knocking against, its just not me.

So, how can a red dress be out of my comfort zone?

Well as a petite lady, I try to stick more to short dress. But when I saw this, I took a chance and tried it on. It goes against my usual style, it's too long, its too low cut - it couldn't possibly fit my short torso. I wasn't wrong about it being low cut, but I wasn't wearing this to work. But low and behold it did fit my short torso and I didn't have to hem it. Winner. I've only worn this once outside of this shoot. But I have no regrets.

It's funny how out of the box doesn't always have to be something outrageous. It can be a color you never wear, a style that you think you would never try - but sometimes circumstances or the decision to be bold can open you up to fun new (style) possibilities.

Thanks to @_elizabethkathryn for taking these photos of me. Check out her insta.

Let Me Reintroduce Myself: 10 Things About Me

2018-08-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've introduced myself. I am not the same girl that started this blog, oh so many years ago. This post is inspired by the questions feature on Instagram.

1. I was born in Oregon but grew up in Seattle. There are so many streets in Seattle that hold different memories from different times in my life. It sometimes leaves me in awe.

2. I've lived in two other countries - study abroad in Mexico and went to school in London. I grew up a lot because of these experiences, I wouldn't be who I am without them.

3. I never leave the house without lipstick. I always have more lipsticks in my backpack than pens.

4. Sometimes I forget that I'm petite, ok most of the time.

5. My daytime job is as a Social Media Manager at a Tech company. I have blogging to thank for this. I'm working on a blog post about this.

6. I write short stories, that I will never make public. I've always been a reader, but when I was 15 I thought I would write a book. I don't think that anymore, but I still have stories in me.

7. Music is my favorite. I sang through college and I had to quit because it wasn't my major. It broke my heart. But I still sing every day and go to karaoke as much as possible.

8. I don't drive. I do have a driver's license. I did have a car once, but when you work from home and a parking spot at your building is 250 a month you decide Lyft work just fine. I do miss driving though.

9. I may seem like an extrovert, but I am pretty shy and awkward most of the time. My friends would disagree with me, but that's because once we become friends that all disappears.

10. I watch too much television. I watch a lot of cooking shows, especially when I eat dinner.

This was fun.
Happy Monday.

Collective Sway Event: Helicopter Ride

2018-06-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

I was brave up until the moment I had to get into the helicopter.
I've known for weeks that this was going to happen, I also knew that the helicopter wasn't going to have any doors, but I'm brave and could feel nothing but excitement.

It wasn't until I came face to face with the helicopter that doubt/fear started to creep up. And boy did it creep in.

I knew that the Daiichi Takeuchi, our helicopter pilot was a professional with hours of experience.
I knew that I really wanted to do this.
And great experiences don't come around like this every day.

But when I started to walk towards the helicopter and could feel the vibration of the propeller in my chest I heard that little voice in my head scream "Are you crazy?" and I just shook it off and kept walking.

No regrets. The experience went by in a flash, but it was amazing. Seattle is beautiful. The boats were out, the buildings were majestic and the Space Needle even under construction was a sight to behold.

Would I do it again? In a heartbeat.

My FLOAT Experience

2018-04-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

I have to be honest, I wasn't sure I would like Floating. But, the old saying is true that you should never knock it till you try it. Why was I so hesitant? It wasn't the floating part, it was being in a dark space with no music, no light, no phone for an hour. I really didn't know if I could do it.

photo by @nicksouthcote

As a social media manager and a blogger, I spend a lot of time on my phone or on the computer - constantly stimulated, distracted. In fact, as I write this I have my phone next to me and the television on. The only time I'm not ON is when I'm asleep. That was a big motivator for me to give Floating a chance. I needed to give myself an hour to disconnect and reconnect with myself.

What went down.
I arrived there a few minutes before my appointment. The Float Seattle Greenlake location has a warm, quiet feel that you're greeted with as soon as you walk in. I was led to a small room that had the float tank, a bench, and a shower. I followed the instructions given to me closely. The most important being that you have to take a shower and place earplugs in before you float.
This is when I felt myself rushing. I knew I only had an hour and that sense of urgency that I seem to live with was making me rush through this process. Once I realized this, I took a deep breath and slowed myself down.
Before I got into the tank I double checked my earplugs and scratched my nose. You see - you can't let the salt water get into your ears or eyes, so this part is super important.

Then I got in the tank.

It was pitch black. And I didn't know what to do with myself. I started to reexamine my need to do this, did I really? Then I started to hum to myself, then I went from humming to thinking about work, and then about what I needed to do after floating. I quickly realized that my thoughts were just bouncing around distracting me from this experience. So I decided to focus on my breathing. This is where I started to really give myself over to the Float. I moved my arms around and when my mind started going back to overdrive, I refocused on my breathing. Then my time was up. It came up faster than I expected.

photo by @crystalsouthcote

I didn't have any epiphanies, I didn't walk away a brand new woman, but I think I finally understood what it meant to be in the moment. Also, the urgency I walked in with was not with me when I walked out. I took that slow pace feeling home with me. I didn't look at my phone, I didn't pull out my computer, I didn't turn on the television. I did put on piano music and made my dinner. I loved it. I loved just being quiet, not worrying about tomorrow, but actually enjoying a Sunday night.

Will I do this again? Definitely. I want that peace, no rush, just be feeling back in my life.
I loved doing it on a Sunday night, but I'm thinking next time I will try a Monday night.

Thank you, Float Seattle for a great experience.
Photos from @collectivesway event.

3 Places I Go When It Rains

2018-04-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

It rains a lot in Seattle and as a PNW girl, I love it.
There are three places I find myself at when the rain comes down, besides my couch.

1. Coffee is even better when it rains.

photo @aikafozphotography

You could stay home and drink your coffee on a rainy day, but I always seem to find myself packing up my backpack and heading to my neighborhood coffee shop. There's something nice about drinking coffee and watching it rain through big windows.

A few go to coffee shops:
Broadcast Roosevelt, Storyville Pike Place Market, Roy Street Cafe, Elm Coffee Roasters

2. All the books.

I always seem to find myself at a bookstore when it's raining out. I guess everyone else had the same idea.
A post shared by Alix (@alixrose) on Aug 30, 2014 at 4:05pm PDT

One day I realized that when it rains I find myself wandering the aisles at Elliot Bay Bookstore. I don't always buy a book, I'm really indecisive. But I don't feel in a rush when I am there, I can read the back of books, check it on Goodreads, stand in the same place for an unknown about of time - all while it rains outside. I think a lot of Seattle does this, Little Oddfellows is always packed and there's a buzz of people talking - about books.

3. Touristy, kinda.

I'm ashamed to admit this, but I went to Chihuly Museum for the first time a few months ago. It was a work event and it was raining. I loved it. When you go into the atrium and look up and see the Space Needle looking at you through a rain-soaked window decorated with Chihuly flowers you feel so PNW. I plan to go back there asap - when it's raining of course.

Where do you go when it rains?

I should also add that I don't own an umbrella because I lose them so often. That's why I gravitate to places that are covered. But as long as I have a hood I will go anywhere.

Camera Shy: Stepping Out of the Box

2018-02-28T08:00:00.000-08:00

I think I live outside the box, but then certain situations come along where I run back into the box as fast as I can. I tend to look for the box when I find myself in front of the camera. I know I know as a "fashion blogger" I should be comfortable in front of the camera, but it takes a little warming up. And it's different when you have a few cameras pointed at you. But I DO know that once I decide to walk out of the box I never regret it.

photo by @crysouthcote

A few weeks ago we hosted a Collective SWAY event at Float Seattle. We had some amazing models from #TeamSWAY and even though I said I would model - I wanted to stay in my box. I haven't been to yoga in months and I just wasn't ready to be in a bathing suit. Thanks to my PIC, Crys Southcote for the push she gave me to find my way out of the box I was hiding in. I shook off my nervousness, got in the pod and just had fun creating.

These are the photos that came from it.

photo by @crysouthcote

Collective SWAY has given me so many opportunities to break out of my cozy box. It pushes the way I see myself.

photo by @nicksouthcote

I am always amazed by the cool ways photographers take an image and make it come to life.

photo by @crysouthcote

photo by @antmayphoto

photo by @nicksouthcote

And if you're wondering about floating - I haven't done it yet. I'm excited to try it and I will tell you all about it soon.

Airbnb Photo Tour: Del Sol

2018-02-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

I waited to post about this place because it means that my Joshua Tree Trip content is coming to an end. This guts me. I had such an amazing time and I've had so much fun reliving it through my posts.

This is the very last place we stayed at and it was the perfect place to close out our amazing trip. Del Sol Airbnb was close to the park, it was down a dirt road, there were neighbors, but we didn't feel closed in. The place had character, style, and coziness.

This living room, this table - so many laughs so many photos.

Coffee and Tea and the perfect place to be.

It did not have a television which turned out not being a problem for this television addict. It had a very long table, a record player, and a chair hammock.

It also had an amazing master bedroom. Charli and I flipped a coin to see who would get it, I won. I can't tell you how happy that made me.

I could have moved in here.

Charli's bedroom was just as adorable. I wish we would have had one more night at this cute place, but I'm still glad we were able to spend some time taking photos, working at the table and just being.

The outside lights gave just the right ambience for some friend time.

The road right in front of the house.

I am so glad we were able to stay here and I recommend it to anyone looking for a cute, comfy place that's close to the park.

All photos by Tophats and Tea

Make Time For Things That Make You Happy

2018-02-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

We are now officially into the second month of the new year. I can't believe it. We're getting closer to spring - YAY!
I'm also starting to get the feel for 2018 and that really makes me happy.

I know my Instagram looks as if I am still in Joshua Tree and even though I wish I was, I am definitely in hustle / conquer the world mode.

I have a full-time awesome job, I go to blogger events, I have photoshoots planned and Collective SWAY is about to go into full swing.

It seems like a lot, but I have also made a promise to myself - I am making time for things that make me happy, but I'm also not sacrificing my time or my work because in the end that will not level up to happiness.

This photoshoot was fun - it definitely made me happy.

It's something I definitely learned in 2017. I stretched myself pretty thin and didn't finish or even start half the things I wanted to. I'm not going to stop saying yes to new opportunities or risks, but I am going to take a breath before I jump all in. I could write about work, life, family, friends, side projects balance - but that's a whole other blog series. LOL!

I just know that my happiness lies in being able to make time for my structured and creative life. I can't do it all and I've always known that, but I haven't always lived it.

This year is already so different and challenging from the years that came before it, that could be a daunting fact, but for me, that's just exciting.

And why did I decide to share my HAPPY epiphany with these photos - yes the board, but also because this photoshoot made me happy. This whole trip made me happy. I never did anything like it, I had to take time off of work and there were a lot of reasons to not go. But I knew this experience was worth saying Yes to. It would not be a regret and I was right.

It was the perfect way to start off 2018.

This dress made me happy.

It may seem silly to say - make time for things that make you happy - but our daily lives can become a routine or maybe you are doing to many things and that can take the happiness out of it. I've fallen into that, so this is reminder for me that I'm sharing with you.

Dress currently on sale: Floral Mesh Skater Dress

All photos by @tophatsandtea

Rent the Runway Update : A Monthly Subscription

2018-01-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

I am on my second order of Rent the Runway Update. And I am loving it. Who doesn't love coming home to new clothes? I signed up a few months ago and got approved just in time for my trip to Joshua Tree. Here's why I decided to join, how it works and why I think you should try it.

I guess the big question is - Why did I decide to join?
I am back in the corporate world and the clothes I shop for has changed. I ask myself - Can I wear this to work? - every time I try on clothes. Don't get me wrong, I haven't completely changed the way I dress, I just modified it for the workplace. But that's also stopped me from buying fun items that I used to jump at. So, last month I ordered a sequin jacket and a perforated LBD - not exactly work ready, but I loved them and wanted to wear them.
RTRU lets me have a little fun without the full commitment.
Also, the clothes that I rent are not in my budget. I wouldn't be able to buy 4 pieces like this a month, there are some brands that I would never wear because I can't justify their price. So, its fun to wear something that I might never have tried on.

It's super easy.
I downloaded the app. It notifies you when its time to choose a new shipment. Once you choose 4 pieces it ships out to you in a clothing bag. You wear them as much as you want for the month. It notifies you when its time to send them back, which is super easy because you put them back in the bag they came in and use the return label that was included in the shipment. And then you drop it off at a nearby UPS store.I have a serious problem returning items and this was super easy for me.

Why should you do it?
If you're an outfit rut or want to start the new year trying out new cuts, fits, patterns without fear or commitment - RTR update can help you achieve that goal.

Will it save you money?
Maybe. I don't know. I'm only two months in. So my shopping habits haven't completely shifted. They might. It's 89 a month - that's less than what I pay for coffee a month. So you know.

Here's a few items I ordered - each shipment consists of 4 pieces.

1st Shipment
1. Free People: Amelia Knit Mini Dress
2. Sanctuary: Rose Seduction Bomber

2nd Shipment
3. Trina Turk: Red Ruffle Hem Dress
4. Endless Rose: Rose Print Bomber Jacket

I didn't realize I was on this style kick until I made this collage. LOL!

Sequins and Cactus

2018-01-22T08:00:00.000-08:00

Funny story, but I was the only person wearing sequins at the Cholla Cactus garden. LOL! Ok, it wasn't really a surprise, but I felt like wearing sequins and you should always wear what you want.

There are so many amazing things to see at Joshua National Park, but we didn't have a lot of time and the Cactus Garden was at the top of our list.

I read somewhere that the garden was like seeing coral reef above water. It's the perfect description.

And we had to be careful because the garden wasn't made to be touched. It's spikey, it will attach to your clothes and prick you through jeans, boots, sequins - this is no joke. And I'm not repeating this through second-hand stories. I was careful and I still got pricked. Okay I could have been a little more careful and Charli could not have laid down to get the shot or worn sandals, but we made it out a live with some cool photos. Win all around.

So if you ever make it to Joshua Tree National Park I highly recommend going here. But wear boots.

Top by Vici Dolls

Photos by @TophatsandTeaSewui

Don't Wait for A Vacation, Unplug Everyday

2018-01-15T08:00:00.000-08:00

I am sick. I tried to outrun it, but it still got me and it got me good. To be honest, I saw this cold rolling in two days ago, but I shook it off. Which means I still got up early, I worked hard and I went to bed late. I lived my life as if I didn't have a cold. I should have known how this story was going to end. So as I sit here typing, instead of lying down I ask myself why do we do this to ourselves?

Two years ago I made a resolution to not eat my dinner in front of my computer. I also made yoga a big part of my life because it helped me - it made me focus on my body rather than the emails, papers, work - a nice break from everything that was running through my mind. When I was freelancing I realized I was attached to my computer, so I started taking a 30-minute break every day at 3 pm. If I couldn't lay down, I would go for a walk - no computer and my phone was only to keep time. I can't tell you how much of a struggle it was not to reach for my phone or not worry about what I should be doing. But eventually, I was able to get in a zone where I could unplug with no struggle.

Last year Crystal and I started Collective Sway, a few months ago I started a full-time job and I am starting to blog a lot more. This means I am spending more time in front of my computer and it's getting harder to switch off my hustle mode. I haven't been to yoga in awhile and I don't take my 30-minute break anymore.

When I decided to go to Joshua Tree for vacation, I just kept thinking I will rest when I get there. Of course, I didn't, but it made me think why do we all just wait to unplug when we go away on vacation?

So as part of new resolutions, I started to write go for a run, read a book and then I realized I need to start small. I needed to go back to my 30 minute time out. Why this instead of yoga or running?
I don't know if I can make it to yoga every day and when I run I need my phone to stay motivated.

I know 30 minutes may not seem like a long time, but its the quality of the unplug. I know it's going to be a struggle at first, but within no time I will be able to get into that zone every day.

I wrote about it in May, read the blog post: Why I Unplug Everyday & How It's Changed Me

Main photo by @tophatsandtea

Joshua Tree: An Unexpected Life Lesson

2018-01-11T07:30:00.000-08:00

Behind the wheel- LOL!

I didn't realize I would walk away with a life lesson from my Joshua Tree trip. So let me tell you a little story, but first, you should know I don't drive. I lived in downtown Seattle for many years - no reason to have a car. Once I moved out of downtown I was living that freelance life - so I really didn't need a car. But in Joshua Tree, you need a car.

I don't know why I didn't think about it before I landed in Palm Springs, but my friend Charli is from England, so she probably wasn't going to want to drive. You know the whole she usually drives on the other side of the road thing. It wasn't till she asked me to drive out of the airport that I realized - CRAP, I may need to drive. It wasn't funny at the time, but I think I hid my panic pretty well.

The little Toyota Yaris in Joshua Tree National Park

So, I drove - not only did I drive into Palm Springs and into Joshua Tree, but I drove every single day we were there up to three hours or more a day.

This is huge for me HUGE! I think if I would have told Charli that I was too scared to drive she would have driven. But I didn't. I challenged myself. Because I knew deep inside that I could do it. Now you may think its just driving, but it's more than that for me. It was 70 mph on a highway in a city I've never been to.
I also tend to worry and over analyze - I somehow bypassed all those usual blocks and just did it.
I did it. I conquered a fear and I rocked it. I even fell in love with it.

I wore these jewelry pieces everyday

It was a challenge I didn't expect. And I realized that this unexpected challenge really uncovered a piece of myself that I hoped was there - and now I know it is.
The life lesson - is that sometimes you just have to do it. Don't second guess yourself, trust in your capabilities and let yourself be present.

Now what to conquer next.

Joshua Tree: Echo Ranch House

2018-01-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

As soon as I opened the front door I knew I wanted to move in. But the fun started way before we even saw the front door. There's something about dirt roads, iron gates, and a beautiful horizon that makes you slow down and be present.
When I first found the Airbnb listing I was quickly enamored by the vibe, the white walls, the decor and all the light. Once again, the pictures didn't do the place justice.

It had all the things.

1. Record Player 2. Fireplace 3. Hammock 4. Outside seating - lights and what a view. 5. Closets with mirrored doors 6. Heated bathroom 7. Ironing board 8. Cozy seating 9. And More..

We adventured out most of the day and then headed back to the house to edit photos, make dinner and listen to music. My favorite part was getting up early with my coffee and watching the sunrise. It was chilly, but I'm from Seattle so it wasn't nearly as cold as where I came from. But I still completely appreciated that there was a heater in all of the rooms - living room, Charli had one in her room and I had one as well - remote controlled.

This was the perfect cozy place to chill with out computers as we edited and wrote blog posts.
And acted a little extra.

I love this photo because it really shows you just how thought out the space is - the table, the decor and really the serenity feel it exudes.

I had the best time here with my amazing talented friend, who took all these photos. We were inspired and felt peace as we drank our coffee and watched the sunrise.

And had so many laughs.

We could go back in a heart beat.

Echo Ranch House is currently doing a giveaway for a 2 night stay. Find out how to enter: Here

All photos by @tophatsandtea

Joshua Tree: The Outdoor Art Museum

2018-01-04T07:43:00.003-08:00

I can't explain this place to you. The Noah Purifoy Museum is random, it makes you feel like you're in the past but also in the future and you can't help but want to see everything. Charli and I were definitely the only ones out there dressed like this, but it was worth it.

This Outdoor Desert Art Museum of Assemblage Sculpture in Joshua Tree is constructed entirely from junked materials, this otherworldly environment is one of California’s great art historical wonders.

We walked the whole thing, but I feel like we still didn't see all of it.
When I said random above - it's actually not. It seems that way, but the artist had a vision - you can learn more about it here.

Photo magic by @charlimillions aka @tophatsandtea

Joshua Tree: Polka Dots and Records

2018-01-02T10:07:00.000-08:00

It was sad to say goodbye to the Home Sweet Homesteader yesterday. It’s always a gamble when you book something because of the pictures. But Charli and I were inspired the minute we saw it. My last blog post was all about the outside, today’s blogpost is all about the stylish cozy inside.

On my list for this year is to definitely get a record player. My mom has a million records and I need to steal them all from her. LOL!

If you want to see an actual video of the place - check out my instagram on your mobile. It's on my profile set as a highlight video.

There's no television and if you know me, that's a scary thought, but I didn't miss it at all.

Charli aka Tophats and Tea - we've been friends over 10 years!!

It was down a long road that went from pavement to dirt. There were people nearby, but it felt like you were in the middle of nowhere without having to be in the middle of nowhere.

It was an amazing place to close out the year and start out the year.

Photo magic by Tophats and Tea

Joshua Tree: Photoshoot in the Desert

2017-12-31T08:43:00.000-08:00

If you follow me on Instagram you may have noticed I'm not in Seattle anymore. A few months ago my dear friend Charli asked me what my plans were for New Years. Well, I don't plan that far ahead so my holiday was wide open. Thank goodness because she wanted to go on a desert creative adventure to Joshua Tree. Once again my birthday twin read my mind, this place has been on my bucket list forever. But what did she mean by adventure?

@charlimillons aka @tophatsandtea

Well 7 days, 3 Airbnbs, a few cameras, and suitcases of clothes and props we are on a creative/photoshoot adventure. These are a few photos from the first few hours of our first day at our first Airbnb.

We're just getting started.

Be sure to follow along on Instagram for behind the scenes and daily Instagrams. @alixrose

All photo magic by @tophatsandtea

POP THAT COLOR: FALL STYLE

2017-11-13T07:00:00.000-08:00

When I go color I don't play. LOL! I have to say it's a lot harder to find neon or bright colors now that the stores have flooded with Fall clothes. As much as I love black, gray, green and maroon- I need to rock the most obnoxious colors just to keep me sane.

I even wore this to work - and I totally asked myself if this color would be blinding to my co-workers. I try to be respectful. But I've also found myself not wearing a lot of my clothes because I'm new to the job and I am trying to be professional. But I found myself a little cheerier, a little brighter and a little sassier all day long. It may not have been the sweater, but I think it was. WINK!

Anyways, I won't be wearing neon all Fall long, but a few vibrant sweaters to pop in here and there is definitely a good idea.

Here's a few on my wish list.

1. Express 2. Topshop 3. Asos

All photos by @chelsea macor

Fashion that Says Something: Not that Kind of Girl

2017-10-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

I'm "Not that kind of girl" to wait around for things to happen.
I used to be very shy, sheltered and dependent. That's how I defined myself for many years, even though my actions were anything but.

I packed a suitcase and a backpack and left the United States to go to school in London for two years. I didn't know a soul. That was the hardest and best time of my life.
I got stranded in Paris and ended up traveling ( Paris, Ireland) by myself for a week. I had no one to depend on, I had to make all decisions myself. And more than a few times I had to depend on strangers.
I quit my job and decided to take the leap into social media, I gave myself 6 months and by month 3 I had the first job that started me down my career path.

So how could I be scared to go to a workshop, event, conference or an interview? When I had gone through all of these experiences and survived.

It's all about perspective. So when I saw this hat, I knew it was all about being the kind of girl who didn't let excuses, fears or self doubt stand in the way.

It's true that your style can say a lot about you, especially when it actually says something. LOL!

One Thing I Do Every Morning: Time Out

2017-10-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

My mornings are very different these days, I have to get up.... at a very specific time. If I don't, I miss my bus and then I'm late to work. Fortunately, I haven't missed my bus, yet. It's this whole new back to an office life every day, it's taking some getting used to. There's one thing that I do every morning that makes it easier for me to get up. It's not really a trick it's a timeout. After I take my shower, I go back to bed. I turn the lights off, I set a timer on my phone and I just close my eyes. I don't go to sleep, I get close, but if I keep it at 10 minutes it's just enough time to take me out of rush speed back to normal.Before I put this timeout into my routine I would stay in bed to the very last moment possible, which would put me into this rush mode that's really no fun.

It may seem silly to go back to bed, but again I'm not sleeping, I'm resetting. I don't have to jump out of bed, I don't have to feel rushed and there's nothing better than getting into work mode without feeling you're already behind.

When this doesn't happen and sometimes it doesn't, I feel the difference. So, it's become an important part of my morning.