my rituals: kristin miller of dressed and fed

If Pinterest has taught us anything, it’s that beautiful images of food and fashion never grow old. And that’s exactly also how I feel when I read Kristin Miller’s blog, Dressed and Fed. The San Diego blogger chronicles all that’s sweet, classic and pretty with gorgeous photos — her lighting is always the best! — sale alerts and restaurant recs. Today, she tells us about playing with Playdough and clocking time with Gillian Flynn.

Name: Kristin Miller
Age: 33
Hometown: Bloomington, IL
Current City: San Diego, CA
Professional Title: Operations Priority Specialist (Finance)

We all have a million errands to run on Saturdays but one of my favorite rituals is visiting the neighborhood farmer’s market. I love the atmosphere with all the fresh food, flowers, music…and FOOD! My goal is to not consume everything I bought within 20 minutes after buying it, even though I ate half a box of pastries I bought last weekend shortly after returning home. I also use the farmer’s market to practice my photography skills since it’s always full of color and sunlight.

I’ve always been an avid reader, but when I began blogging in 2011, I put books on the ‘back shelf’ since I was always working late nights. So this year I promised myself to read every night even if it’s only one chapter….not because I miss it so much but because it’s such a de-stresser and helps me sleep better. My friends consider it strange that I prefer murder mysteries for a late night read, but if it’s an engrossing story line then it distracts me from all the chaos going on in my life. I’m currently reading Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn.

Since I don’t have children, my morning routine typically revolves around my pets which involves taking my dog, Perla, for a quick “workout” walk around the block and making sure both have a generous supply of eats and treats. Weekdays bring serious ‘mom guilt’ which I try to make up for by giving both my dog and cat, Nala, as much of my undivided attention as possible. If I meet a friend for lunch or dinner I often take my dog if we’re sitting outside. It allows me to spend more time with her and socialize at the same time.

In my opinion, workout routines are a constant challenge to keep on a schedule and stay motivated for after a long day at work. I’m making a serious effort to keep that routine on target because I know it gives me some much needed energy and it’s the one thing that keeps me computer free, even if it’s for only an hour. Then it’s back to working on my posts, researching, and catching up on social media.

Regardless of how busy I may be on a weekend, playtime with my nephew, Calvin, is much more important and a hundred times more fun. His infectious little giggle and running hugs are so heartwarming and sweet that I can’t think of anything else I’d rather be doing than spending time with him. His current obsessions include Playdough and sitting in my car pushing buttons and pretending to drive. What might seem like a mundane activity to most people brings him the greatest joy. I love watching his excitement, and it’s only going to get better because my sister is expecting my niece in July and I can’t wait to be an aunt all over again.

Thanks, Kristin! You can also find her on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

Have a good weekend, friends!