Heading into fall is bitter sweet. It’s such a great time of year, however, leaving the summer behind can definitely be a bit depressing. No more beach time, no more backyard bbq’s, no more summer tan…

But since I am trying to be a glass half full kind of person these days, rather than focus on what we are leaving behind, I am trying to focus on what we are gaining…booties, sweaters, pumpkin spice…

Ok, so everyone knows fall is synonymous with Pumpkin Spice Lattes right? It’s the most basic drink in all the land but for some reason, I never could handle them. I loved the way they tasted but they always made my tummy bloat. I just chalked up to too much sugar, until I RECENTLY found out some earth shattering news (insert dramatic dun dun daaaaaan) the syrup contains DAIRY!!!

Wait, WHAT?!!?

Yeah, my reaction exactly.

Well that explains the belly bloat – I’ve been lactose intolerant for years and just sitting there dairy bombing myself with PSL – thanks so much Starbucks!

Anyway…I stopped drinking that crap long ago, but I did invent MY OWN at home VERSION that helps me get into the fall mood.

I also wanted to share a few other things that can definitely lift the farewell summertime sadness and get you into a hello fall festive mood.

HOME MADE (DAIRY FREE!!) PSL’S

Ok, here’s what you do: If you use a traditional coffee pot like I do, put your coffee into the filter like normal. I do 5 teaspoons per 12 cups. Then, I take the Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Pie Spice and sprinkle it into the grinds (If you use a French Press, do the same thing, sprinkle into the grinds.) You can do this to taste, if you like a strong pumpkin flavor do more, if you like it subtle, do less. And voila! That’s it. Let the pot brew, pour in your cup and garnish with whatever milk  and sweeter you prefer (almond, or cashew and Stevia is probably best for you.) If you are feeling particularly sassy you could even garnish with coconut whip cream.

IF YOU’VE BEEN THINKING ABOUT IT…ADOPT

Ok, I know you maybe didn’t see that one coming, but here me out. Last year I finally took the plunge after thinking about it for a few years and I adopted my Chihuahua mix, Ranger. Many of you have probably seen him on IG and in some of my videos. For a long time I was hesitant because I was afraid of the commitment, because let’s face it, having a dog is a big responsibility, but you guys…he is THE BEST thing I’ve done for myself in a LONG TIME.

It’s tough to convey the level of joy this guy brings to me every single day. From the morning snuggle sessions (his fave) to his cute little personality quirks – he follows me everywhere because has severe FOMO  and he wags his tail even when he gets yelled at because he’s literally the happiest puppy in the world…it’s tough to have bad days when he’s around.

I adopted Ranger in LA and if you’re thinking about adopting, but aren’t sure where to go I have a cool pet adoption website that will link you with breeds that are available in different areas. There’s so many sweet babies on there that need a home so I really recommend clicking the link and taking a look.

FALL POLISH

I think this is a super simple way to jump right in to fall and usually the first thing I do. Right now I’m rocking this forest green color with my natural nails, which is definitely different for me, since I’m so used to longer nails and going to the salon… but there’s something about this undone vibe that’s giving me the fall feels. For some reason these deeper nail colors get me right in the mood. When it comes to affordable polish my favorite is the Sally Hansen Color Therapy and some colors I love are: Chai on Life, Haute Stone, Mud Mask, Steely Serene and Bamboost.

UPDATE YOUR WARDROBE

This might be my favorite part of fall – the clothing! I always look forward to the fall sale at Shopbop, you guys know they are my go to when I’m adding chicness to my closet. I started hunting for my new go to pieces a few weeks ago and pinned them in my wishlist so I could order when the sale went live. I wanted to grab a new pair of casual booties, but something that had a little visual interest. I love shoes that are easy to throw on, super comfy but have a wow factor. I stumbled upon these which are unlike any pair I currently have and I had to have them. I also wanted to add a plaid blazer to my wardrobe, because even though I have many blazers (they are a staple piece for me in the fall) I don’t have a plaid version. I found this one which was exactly what I was envisioning. Of course I had to add a new fall it bag, and personally love a good backpack. I’ve been carrying a black Henry Bendel backpack for years (seen here) and it was time to rotate it out for a bit. That one is a structured, so I opted for this one which is smaller and more slouchy.

What are some new pieces you have your eye on this fall? Are you going to get anything from the sale?

Here are the details:

PULL OUT THE CANDLES

Last but not least, I O.D. on the scented candles. Now don’t get me wrong, I like to burn candles anytime of the year, but for some reason I burn them a lot more during the fall. I love getting fall scents and putting them in every room. Scent is something that can really encourage a positive mood and it just puts me in a zen state of mind. Scents like ‘fall harvest’ and ‘Thanksgiving Pie’ just make me so happy. I still love my Lavender Candles but in the fall, switching to those staples scents just make me feel some type of way. Here are a few I’m into right now.

XO,

*A portion of this post is in partnership with Nakturnal, however all opinions are always my own. Thank you for supporting brands that make Glam Latte possible!