Life lately | Apple picking, Incubus and cousins

For all that I like to share on the Internet, whether it's through my blog or social media, I don't think it's a surprise to say that I'm a very private person. The things closest to my heart I typically keep to myself or loved ones. But it also feels a little weird to go on like nothing's changed either. So here's what I'll say: I experienced a devastating loss recently and just like anyone who's ever experienced grief, I have my good days and my I-want-to-cry-in-bed days. But I've always tried my best to grasp onto the good in my life and lately (well always), my family and especially my cousins are at the top of that list. They show up when I need them and even when I don't think that I do and our recent outings have been a huge source of comfort.

Apple picking

Our third year in a row of apple picking! This is one of my favorite traditions and something I'd been looking forward to for weeks. We decided to try a new spot and checked out Alstede Farms. And wow, I really liked this place! There were so many pick-your-own fruit and vegetable options, sunflower mazes, corn mazes, petting zoo, tractor rides and homemade ice cream. (Also real bathrooms instead of porta potties, which sounds like a silly thing to get excited over but that was seriously a plus.) It was obviously a popular spot though so in the future, I think it would be better to take a day off during the week instead of going on a Saturday. But even with the crowd, I didn't feel overwhelmed at all! There were just lines to wait in and for food, going elsewhere felt like the best option (Cracker Barrel is fairly close by!). If not for the number of people and our late start, I could've easily spent an entire day there.

Incubus concert

When I found out that Incubus was going on tour to celebrate the 20th (!) anniversary of Make Yourself and there was a stop at Radio City Music Hall, I knew I had to go. I originally was supposed to go with my best friend and we actually got the tickets together. But, in short, there was a mix-up on her end with the dates and my youngest cousin ended up coming with me instead. And you know, things work out for a reason. I loved getting to share this with him. I first saw Incubus 12 years ago and they've been one of my favorite bands for years before that. They're incredible live and all this time later, they still got it! Their presence onstage is exactly the same and they know how to put on a show. They played Make Yourself in its entirety and then played hits from other albums. My cousin had liked their stuff but I'm pretty sure that night totally made him a fan. At least I like to think it did!

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What have you been up to lately?