July, you were a beast.

I’ve driven 3000 miles from Orange County, South Bay, Irvine, Los Angeles and back.

I’ve stayed overnight at friend’s places, helped on film shoots until 5am, went from work to the beach to a concert or a bar, only to leave home at 9am and return at 3am.

I hung out with some people too much, saw some too little, met new faces and some who excite. I’ve had people fall head over heels for me as I tried to adjust and sort my own heart out.

I came across posts that reignited my passion and desire — for writing, for the game, for life and love. I wrote and wrote and found opportunities through work. I played guitar. I didn’t play enough guitar. I lost sleep. I hibernated through weekends. I lived in my car throughout the week. I bummed the beach, reconnected with old friends, lit new flames and maybe burned others.

I even went on impromptu dates, meeting generous concertgoers who were able to not only become a friend, but also give me the opportunity to see four shows in one week that didn’t cost me a dime.

It’s all been one exciting, sleepless journey towards my independence and young adulthood.

I admit, I haven’t had much time to devote to sitting, writing and creating, but as I try to “slow down” in the coming weeks and months, I hope I can create something a little more personal, from me to you. A part of my desire for self-expression has felt a little suffocated, and now that I’ve had my fill of being busy, moving and constantly engaging, I cannot wait to revisit myself.

As I’ve often believed: all you need is a little life to inspire new music and writing. And I’ve been doing just that.

Balance is everything. Keeping your sanity in check is everything. Slow down once in a while. Treat yourself well. Love yourself right and that love will come right back to you.

I chose “Breathe” by Michelle Branch because, not only could it be more fitting, but meeting her just a few weeks ago really was a highlight and testament to my first month.

I’ve been driving for an hour
Just talking to the rain
You say I’ve been driving you crazy
And it’s keeping you away
So just give me one good reason
Tell me why I should stay
‘Cause I don’t want to waste another moment
In saying things we never meant to say

With love and honesty,

Rachel

As we are all humans with rich, beautiful and oftentimes complicated lives, how do you keep balance in your life? How do you prevent the burn out when new changes bring new hurdles? I’d love to know your thoughts and struggles to adjust when first moving out!