Category: Monthly Muses

Seasonal writing series, themed prompts, and blog challenges like Spooktober, Blogmas, and Bloganuary.

Posted in Monthly Muses

Welcome to September

Posted on by Eryn 🐰
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September 1st has always been important to me.

Not in the normal “new month, new goals” kind of way. I have always treated September 1st like it was an event.

If you know me, you probably know where this comes from.

I used to be a huge Harry Potter fan, and September 1st was obviously the day. In the books, this was the day the kids packed their trunks, said goodbye to their parents, and boarded the Hogwarts Express from Platform 9¾. So naturally, every September 1st felt a little magical.

At one point, I even wrote about September 1st through the lens of Heathers, because the opening of “Beautiful” starts with Veronica saying, “Dear Diary, September 1st,” and apparently that was enough for my brain to decide that September 1st needed its own little annual ceremony.

So for years, September 1st has been one of those dates that just means something to me.

It used to be the beginning of a new school year, but now kids go to school in August. It’s the unofficial beginning of fall in my brain. It’s Hogwarts Express day. It’s Heathers day. It’s the point where summer starts feeling like it’s officially on its way out and the rest of the year suddenly feels very real.

And usually, September 1st means I get to sit down and write some sort of dramatic little reflection about the month ahead.

Except this year, I have a slightly bigger problem.

It’s a new month, a new day, and somehow we are officially in the month where this baby could decide to show up at literally any point.

And honestly, I really thought that by the time September got here, I would be completely done talking about pregnancy.

I thought between June and September I would have discussed everything baby-related. I figured three months would be plenty of time to get it all out of my system. The pregnancy, the fears, the excitement, the things I didn’t expect, the things that stressed me out, the things that made me laugh, the things I was looking forward to, and all of the random thoughts that have been taking up space in my brain.

I thought by September I would have nothing left to say.

Apparently, I was very wrong.

Because somehow it is September 1st and I still have things I haven’t talked about.

So I guess this is officially the countdown now. Unfortunately for me, it’s a very literal countdown because baby girl could come any day. I don’t know if I have a few weeks left or if she could decide tomorrow is the day, which makes planning anything slightly difficult.

I do want to address some of the things I haven’t talked about yet, and hopefully I can get some of them out before baby girl gets here. But for now, I’m trying to keep things loose.

I don’t want to make some elaborate content calendar where I have to write about a specific topic on a specific day when I don’t even know what the next few weeks are going to look like.

At this point, I have approximately 4 things planned:

  • Get to California.
  • Get settled enough to function.
  • Have a baby.
  • Don’t die in labor.

That’s it. That’s the plan.

And honestly, the closer we get to the end of this year, the more I keep thinking about my word of the year: alignment.

Because do I even understand what alignment means for me anymore?

At the beginning of the year, I thought I did. I had an idea of where I wanted my life to go and what I thought getting into alignment with that life would look like.

And then this year happened.

Plans changed. Timelines changed. Things I thought would happen didn’t happen, and things I stopped planning for happened anyway.

So now I’m sitting here in September, pregnant, still figuring out where I’m going to be, waiting for a baby who could completely change the timeline again, and wondering if I actually understand the word I chose for this year.

Maybe alignment doesn’t mean everything goes according to plan.

Maybe it’s learning how to move forward when the plan changes.

Maybe it’s accepting that sometimes you can do everything you thought you were supposed to do and still end up somewhere completely different.

Or maybe I will finally figure out what I meant by alignment sometime between now and December.

For now, I’m just welcoming September, trying to enjoy whatever time I have left before baby girl gets here, and giving myself permission to keep things loose.

I still have things to say.

I just don’t know how much time I have left to say them before this baby decides she’s ready to make her entrance.

Posted in Monthly Muses

August Favorites

Posted on by Eryn 🐰
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I started this going, “I honestly don’t know if I have any August favorites,” and then proceeded to give you an entire list of things.

So apparently I was wrong.

August has been… a month. There are definitely a lot of things from August that I hate — especially losing Dolly Parton and Tim Curry. But before all of that happened, when I was mostly just getting ready for my baby shower and trying to survive the end of pregnancy, I apparently managed to find quite a few things I loved.

So here we are: my August favorites.

Hair

Aussie Ultra Smooth Defining Jelly

This has been working amazingly in my hair.

I’ve been using the Aussie Ultra Smooth Defining Jelly and I’m genuinely impressed with how well it’s been working for me. My hair has been behaving so much better with it, and anything that makes doing my hair easier right now automatically gets bonus points.

Beauty

L’Oréal Blurfection Setting Powder

I bought the L’Oréal Blurfection Setting Powder specifically because I wanted to use it for my baby shower.

I did not use it.

Not because I didn’t like it. I literally just never got around to doing my makeup. We were running a little late the morning of the shower, and the humidity was absolutely killing me. At that point, I decided that trying to put on a full face of makeup while sweating to death was simply not worth it.

So technically, this is an August favorite that I didn’t even wear.

I still have it, though, so I’m hoping to actually test it out soon and see if it lives up to the hype.

Clione Prime Lash Lift Kit

I bought the Clione Prime Lash Lift Kit from Amazon and used it on my mom again.

Originally, I was supposed to do her lashes for the baby shower, and then somehow the baby shower got so chaotic that I completely forgot.

But I have used the kit before, and I really like it. It’s one of those things that I keep remembering exists and then immediately thinking, why don’t I do this more often?

Vaseline Mini Lip Balm — Rosy Lips

I feel like my lips have been chapped all the time lately.

I don’t know if it’s the pregnancy, the weather, dehydration, or some combination of all three, but my lips have been absolutely miserable.

The one thing that actually fixes them is the Vaseline Mini Lip Balm in Rosy Lips. It’s tiny, which makes it perfect to throw in my purse, and it has basically become my emergency lip product.

Books

The Other Bennet Sister by Janice Hadlow

I’m currently reading The Other Bennet Sister by Janice Hadlow because apparently I have decided that if I can’t watch the series, I will simply read the book instead.

I don’t have BritBox, so I can’t watch the adaptation, and honestly, I’m not paying for another streaming service just for one show. So naturally, I went with the next best thing: the book.

It’s giving me my period-drama fix without requiring me to add yet another subscription to my life.

Shutter by Ramona Emerson

The other book I’m reading is Shutter by Ramona Emerson.

I’ve been really enjoying it so far, and it’s definitely a completely different vibe from The Other Bennet Sister, which I actually like. I feel like I need a little variety in what I’m reading instead of spending all my time in one genre. Also on Amazon this book is like $10 but I found it for cheaper so I’d say if you know any used book stores check there.

Food

The Giant Pupusa

Okay, this might actually be my favorite thing from August.

I went to La Pupusa Urban Eatery and got a pupusa the size of a freaking pizza.

I’m not exaggerating.

It was HUGE.

And honestly? As a pregnant woman, this was exactly what I needed.

I don’t even know if I can properly explain how happy that pupusa made me, but it deserves a spot on this list simply because of its sheer size and deliciousness.

Beverages

Any Ice-Cold Beverage

This one is technically more of a pregnancy favorite, but I don’t care.

Any. Ice. Cold. Beverage.

And I mean ICE COLD.

I need as much ice as physically possible in that glass. If you hand me a drink and there are only three little ice cubes floating around in it, I’m going to be disappointed.

Fill that glass with ice until there is barely room for the actual beverage.

There is something about an absolutely freezing drink right now that is just perfect. I could have the exact same drink with no ice and somehow it tastes completely wrong.

So that’s pretty much my August favorites.

Despite August being a bit of a dumpster fire emotionally, there were at least a few little things that made the month better. And considering I’m currently very pregnant, very tired, and increasingly convinced that ice is one of life’s greatest inventions, I’ll take the wins where I can get them.

Posted in Monthly Muses

June & July Favorites (So Far)

Posted on by Eryn 🐰
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We’re already halfway through July, which feels impossible, so I figured it was the perfect time to share everything I’ve been loving lately. Pregnancy has definitely influenced some of these favorites (looking at you, ice water), but there are also a few TV shows, beauty products, and random little things that have made my life better over the last couple of months.

📺 What I’ve Been Watching

Pluribus (Apple TV+)
This has been my favorite new show lately. It’s one of those series that has me thinking about it long after I finish an episode. I won’t spoil anything, but if you’re looking for something a little different, I’d definitely recommend giving it a shot.

Rick and Morty (New Season)
This season has gotten surprisingly dark at times, but somehow it still manages to make me laugh out loud. That’s kind of the magic of Rick and Morty—it’ll make you question existence one minute and then hit you with the dumbest joke you’ve ever heard the next.

The Righteous Gemstones
As always, this show is absolute chaos in the best way. Every character is somehow the worst person imaginable, yet I love all of them.

My Adventures with Superman
I continue to adore this version of Superman. It’s optimistic, fun, and just a genuinely enjoyable watch. Sometimes you need a superhero who actually likes being a hero.

Psych (Rewatch)
This has become one of my comfort shows. I’ve been rewatching it lately, and it still holds up. Shawn and Gus remain one of my favorite TV duos of all time.

🤰 Pregnancy Favorites

My Boppy Pregnancy Support Wedge Pillow
I don’t know why I waited so long to get one. As my pregnancy has progressed, getting comfortable has become a full-time job, and this little pillow has made sleeping so much easier.

Ice Water… But Specifically Pebble Ice
Regular ice is fine. Pebble ice? Life-changing. I don’t know what pregnancy has done to my brain, but if my water doesn’t have pebble ice in it, it just doesn’t hit the same.

Open-Face Sandwiches
For whatever reason, these have become one of my favorite lunches. They’re easy, filling, and somehow taste better than a normal sandwich. Pregnancy logic.

Coconut Water
I’ve been trying to stay hydrated, especially with this summer heat, and coconut water has become one of my go-to drinks. It’s refreshing and helps break up the endless cycle of plain water.

💄 Beauty Favorites

Noxzema Classic Clean Original Deep Cleansing Cream
I think I’ve mentioned this before, but it’s worth bringing up again. It’s one of those products I never would have thought to buy myself. My dad has always had a jar in the bathroom, so I started using it while I’ve been staying with my parents. Now I totally understand why people have been using it for decades. It leaves my face feeling so clean and refreshed.

Revlon One-Step Volumizer 1.0 Blow-Dryer Brush
I’ve been borrowing my mom’s, and now I completely understand the hype. It makes doing my hair so much faster, and somehow I actually look like I put effort into it.

👗 Fashion Favorites

Old Navy Summer Dresses
If I’m not wearing pajamas, I’m probably wearing one of these. They’re comfortable enough for pregnancy, lightweight in the Vegas heat, and still make me feel put together even when I don’t have the energy to actually get ready.

Bag Charms
I don’t know what happened, but suddenly I’m obsessed. They’re such a fun way to make a bag feel a little more personal, and I’m fully embracing the trend.

🥤 Food Favorites

Little House Jalapeño Ranch Dressing
This has been finding its way onto everything lately. Salads, sandwiches, veggies… honestly, if I can justify putting it on something, I probably will.

💧 My Everyday Essential

My Marshall’s Water Bottle
It’s basically a Hydro Flask dupe that I found at Marshall’s, and I use it constantly. It keeps my drinks cold forever, and considering how much water I’ve been trying to drink lately, it’s been one of my most-used purchases.

I’d love to know what you’ve been loving lately. Have you watched any of these shows or found any random products you suddenly can’t live without?

Posted in Monthly Muses

the people currently living rent-free in my brain

Posted on by Eryn 🐰
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With the TIME 100 Most Influential People of 2026 just dropping, I couldn’t help but spiral into thinking about the people who’ve influenced me—not just globally, but personally, emotionally, spiritually, main-character-wise.

First of all, Alysa Liu. I’ve watched her career for a while now and her retirement. and by 20 she’s out here redefining success, choosing peace, and just casually being like, “yeah, I’m gonna do life my way.” That’s not just inspiring, that’s main character with boundaries energy. We love to see it.

Noah Kahan??? Emotionally devastating in the best way. Like why are you in my headphones making me confront my feelings??? His openness about mental health is so comforting though. It’s giving “you’re not alone but also let’s cry about it together.”

And then Noah Lyles—completely different vibe—pure confidence. Like the kind where you walk into a room and the room adjusts to YOU. He’s not shrinking, he’s expanding. I’m taking notes. But beyond the aura, he’s genuinely crucial to modern athletics right now. He’s not just fast, he’s defining what this era of sprinting looks like—bringing personality, visibility, and swagger back to the sport in a way that feels fresh but also necessary. And let’s not forget, just three years ago he won two gold medals at the World Championships in both the 100m and 200m. That’s not just impressive—that’s legacy-building. It’s giving dominance, discipline, and “I know exactly who I am.”

Historically??? Bobbi Gibb literally said “rules? never heard of them” and ran the Boston Marathon anyway when women weren’t even allowed. And here’s the part that gets me: if you Google “first woman to run the Boston Marathon,” you’ll usually see Kathrine Switzer—and yes, she was the first woman to officially run it in 1967, and that absolutely deserves recognition. But Bobbi Gibb? She hid in the bushes, jumped into the race, and finished it without a bib in 3:21:40. Like??? That’s not just inspiring, that’s rebellious queen behavior. And let’s really sit with this—both of these women were out there doing this before running shoes were even designed specifically for women (which didn’t really happen until the late ’70s). No support, no infrastructure, no permission—just grit. Paved the way without asking for it.

And Hildegard of Bingen??? Oh she was BOOKED and BUSY in the 1100s. Composing, writing, leading, having visions… like okay renaissance woman before it was even a thing. Obsessed.

And then there’s Janine Teagues from Abbott Elementary, my comfort character forever. Watching her slowly gain confidence while still being awkward and caring too much??? That’s REAL growth. Not a glow-up, a grow-up.

Honestly the common theme here is just… being unapologetically yourself, even if that self is still figuring things out. Bold, messy, evolving energy.

Posted in Monthly Muses

Happy December 26th

Posted on by Eryn 🐰
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Happy first day of Chanukkah and first day of Kwanzaa to all who celebrate, and a cheerful Boxing Day to my British friends! As an American, I find myself utterly fascinated—what is Boxing Day all about? When I hear the term, my mind immediately jumps to boxing matches!

On a less festive note, I caught a nasty bug over the Christmas holiday. I’m battling a fever, chills, a sore throat, and a relentless cough. Ugh! We had a surprise outing planned for Saturday with Hector, but I’m seriously considering canceling since I’m feeling so crummy. But part of me is also itching to go out and make some cute post-holiday memories! After all, we’ve committed to a few no-spend months in 2025 to cut back on unnecessary expenses and save up to move out. Here’s hoping I feel better and can still enjoy some fun times! 

Posted in Monthly Muses

Merry Christmas

Posted on by Eryn 🐰
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Happy Christmas Day! I’m so excited because I’m going to see Nosferatu this morning! I’ve never been to a movie theater on Christmas before, and I can already feel the joy of starting a fun new tradition with Hector. Usually, my holiday routine is all about cozying up and binge-watching the Harry Potter movies, but I can’t help but wonder: why do they celebrate Christmas in Harry Potter? I’m like 90% sure I mentioned this already this blogmas, but I’m a bit obsessed with this question! It’s really puzzling me since they should really be celebrating Yule instead since it has pagan roots.

Speaking of traditions, one of my favorite things about the holidays is that my family opens presents at midnight while wearing matching pajamas. It’s so much fun! Plus, I absolutely love it when my mom makes champurrado or hot chocolate and arroz con leche. There’s nothing better than having those rich, creamy, and warm treats—they’re the perfect Christmas dessert!

We’re heading over to Hector’s family later today, and I can’t wait to see if they remembered to get me a gift! I spent all day yesterday and the day before racing around, hunting for last-minute surprises for Hector’s family because he wanted to make sure they had something special. It’s going to be an adventure! But I already told him next year will be with my family in Las Vegas.

Posted in Monthly Muses

A Few of My favorite Things

Posted on by Eryn 🐰
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Merry Christmas Eve!

This year has been an incredible whirlwind, and I’m excited to share some of my absolute favorite moments! At first, I thought I’d only have a handful to highlight, but as I dove into my favorites album, I was amazed by the sheer number of unforgettable experiences I captured. This year was packed with adventures—so much happened that, at times, I felt overwhelmed by the juggling act of work and school.

It’s easy to forget what a fantastic year it’s been when you’re buried under homework and deadlines. I admit, I caught myself feeling a bit sorry for all the things I missed out on. But when I take a step back, I realize just how much I truly accomplished and all the wonderful moments I experienced!

Is it true that life gets hectic? Absolutely! We often find ourselves stressed and exhausted, easily overlooking the joy we’ve had along the way. Yet, it’s precisely these vibrant memories that remind me to be grateful. Let’s celebrate those moments that fill us up with joy and remind us of the incredible journey we’re on!

I can’t believe I totally forgot that I was asked to be a bridesmaid! This year has been a whirlwind of amazing experiences—I’ve caught some incredible AEW matches and rocked out at concerts! I even got a tattoo and got myself a new to me car! Visiting both UCR and Fullerton has shown me that higher education is more within my reach than I ever imagined. It’s been an exhilarating journey of growth, learning, and truly enjoying life to the fullest!

Posted in Monthly Muses

Merry Christmas Eve Eve

Posted on by Eryn 🐰
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I can hardly contain my excitement (and a touch of nerves) about spending the holidays with my boyfriend’s family! It’s not that they don’t like me—I just feel a bit anxious since my Spanish isn’t the best, and his parents aren’t fluent in English either. That could lead to some hilarious and memorable conversations! Plus, I feel a little out of the loop since I missed so many holidays and parties this year, but the thrill of creating amazing new memories with them is just around the corner!

This year, I’m diving in headfirst with homemade treats instead of buying gifts for everyone, and I can’t wait to share them! But true to form, Hector has left his gift shopping to the last minute. Starting Friday the 20th, we’ve been on a whirlwind adventure at Marshalls, Target, Ross, and Best Buy, hunting for the perfect presents! The lines have been absolutely wild! Thankfully, we dodged the long wait at Best Buy by ordering a tech gift online—fingers crossed it arrives tomorrow! If not, my mother-in-law might end up gift-less! I’m so ready for all the fun to kick off! 

And while I’m not necessarily expecting a gift, it would be lovely to receive one. But honestly, with how I missed everything else, I can’t help but think they might not even remember I’m coming over. Still, I’m holding onto hope that this Christmas will be different and filled with joy! 

Posted in Bun Appétit, Monthly Muses

Yule Log

Posted on by Eryn 🐰
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INGREDIENTS 

CAKE 

– 6 eggs 

– 13.25 oz. box chocolate cake mix 

– ⅓ cup water 

– ¼ cup vegetable oil or canola oil 

FILLING 

– 12 oz can frosting or make your own 

FROSTING 

– Chocolate ganache

EXTRAS 

– Powdered sugar 

– kitchen towel

– 12×18 baking sheet 

Instructions for Making a Chocolate Log Cake

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Beat the Eggs: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the eggs for 5 minutes until they are frothy and a pale yellow color.

3. Create the Batter: Add the cake mix, water, and oil to the beaten eggs. Beat the mixture at low speed for 2 minutes until well combined.

4. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a 12×18-inch baking pan with parchment paper or a silicone liner. Coat the liner with baking spray, and be sure to grease the sides of the pan as well.

5. Add Batter to Baking Sheet: Pour the batter into the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly.

6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7. Let Cool: Once the toothpick comes out clean, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for at least 5 minutes, but no longer than 10 minutes.

8. Release the Cake from the Pan: While the cake is still warm, grab a clean linen dish towel. Sprinkle powdered sugar on both sides of the towel to prevent sticking, then lay it over the top of the cake. Holding the towel and the pan together, gently flip the pan upside down so the cake drops onto the towel. Tap the pan if needed to release the cake.

9. Roll the Cake: Carefully peel the parchment paper or silicone liner from the cake. Then, tightly but gently roll the cake up using the towel to help separate the layers. Place the rolled cake, seam-side down, on a cooling rack and let it cool for at least 15 minutes.

10. Unroll and Add Filling: Once cooled, gently unroll the cake and spread a layer of frosting to the edges. Then, gently but tightly roll the cake back up to form a log. Place the log onto a serving dish, seam-side down.

12. Frost the Cake: Frost the entire outside of the log with chocolate ganache

13. Add Bark Texture: Use a fork to create a bark-like pattern in the frosting for texture.

14. Garnish: Decorate your log cake with fresh cranberries and rosemary, or use your creativity to create a wintery scene with any decorative items you like. Adding mushrooms or woodland creatures can make it even more fun!

Enjoy your beautiful chocolate log cake!

Posted in Bun Appétit, Monthly Muses

Making Tamales

Posted on by Eryn 🐰
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I’m so excited to share that I finally decided to make tamales by myself for the first time in two years! I’ve been helping my friend’s family, but I’ve usually just taken part in the assembly. They already prepare the meat, sauce, and masa, and I just add the meat to the masa, throw in some green olives, potatoes, and jalapeños, and then fold them up. If you’ve never tried tamales made this way, you’re really missing out! My friend’s mom is from an area in Mexico near Ensenada, and that’s how she learned to make them.

This time, though, I really wanted to recreate the way my mom makes them. I wanted to prepare the meat, sauce, and masa all on my own. I didn’t end up making my masa from scratch, but I came pretty close! I used some prepared masa from Superior, added lard, salt, and juice from the meat, and mixed it until it reached a nice peanut butter-like consistency.

Oh, and I finally got my mom to write down her recipe! You wouldn’t believe how challenging that was—she’s one of those cooks who just adds spices until it “feels right.” It’s a little tricky getting her to stick to measurements!