a familiar face.

Seeing someone you once knew can ignite so many different emotions. Depending on who they were to you, your stomach might drop or your mind might start to race. Today I saw a person I was close to for many years, whom I remember fondly. I still felt sick to my stomach. It's never easy exchanging pleasantries and faking small talk with someone you used to know like the back of your hand. Eventually, though, all of the familiar feelings I associated with them and had for them came flooding back. I felt comforted, safe, and still, nervous. Do I like feeling this way? Do I miss this person? Should I reconnect with them? Many thoughts raced around my head as I tried to remain present in our conversation.

It is important to remember why you have grown out of a person's life. I'm still guilty of dwelling on the good memories and wondering why we ever went our separate ways. I am laughing with them right now in this moment, so why was it ever incompatible?

I have to acknowledge that it is okay to have feelings toward someone and simultaneously understand that you both are better growing independently from one another.

That's all I have to say right now, as my brain is still scattered from earlier, but I felt I should publish this loose (and rather difficult to follow) train of thought incase anyone else needed to hear it. I'll get back to this one when I can think clearly.

That's all for now, folks!

an easy read

a mini playlist

serenade of water - men i trust

can't take my eyes off of you - Ms. Lauryn Hill

second nature - clairo

everybody here wants you - jeff buckley

lithonia - childish gambino

uncle ACE - blood orange

no one notices - the marías

sweet carolina - lana del rey

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5FTeuMBJeux2vrCxhiYx5D?si=3622678d480642f4&pt=4e1d1036624c12268449c182b7b4823a

a short poem

"Canary" by Rita Dove

Billie Holiday’s burned voice

had as many shadows as lights,

a mournful candelabra against a sleek piano,

the gardenia her signature under that ruined face.

(Now you’re cooking, drummer to bass,

magic spoon, magic needle.

Take all day if you have to

with your mirror and your bracelet of song.)

Fact is, the invention of women under siege

has been to sharpen love in the service of myth.

If you can’t be free, be a mystery.

if you're feeling philanthropic

The Trevor Project - LGBTQ+ suicide prevention:

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

MSF - Medical and psychological support for victims in Gaza and West Bank:

https://www.msf.org/palestine

Clean Air Task Force - Non-governmental U.S. based, working to reduce air pollution and advocates for the utilization of alternative energy:

https://www.catf.us/

National Network to End Domestic Violence - housing and economic justice for survivors of domestic abuse:

https://nnedv.org/content/nnedv-staff/

a journaling/writing prompt

music can often trigger powerful memories. recall a memorable experience associated with a particular song or piece of music.

snack time!

cucumber salad*

• thinly sliced cucumber

• grated fresh garlic

• chili crisp

• soy sauce

• rice wine vinegar

• honey

• toasted sesame oil

• fish sauce

• lemon juice (optional) - finish with green onion and sesame seeds

*all spices and sauces should be measured with your heart <3

yogurt dip

• 1 1/2 cups greek yogurt (I like coconut but plain is also great)

• 1 heaping spoonful peanut butter

• 1/4 cup crushed granola -mix well. - serve with cold, thinly sliced apples

august

Coffee Order: iced oatmilk latte with vanilla and pistachio.

Song of the Week: "Espresso" by Sabrina Carpenter (what else would it have been... like-)

My blog was created in honor of the month of August. August holds a special place in my heart. The forgotten month, full of nostalgia and long, lazy days. I find myself reminiscing on past relationships and "the good old days," while simultaneously anticipating the start of fall and the cold 9-5 work weeks, waiting for my car to defrost in the driveway. In an effort to stay present and take each moment as it comes, I created "iced oatmilk latte" to document my 20s and the beginning of adulthood, as I know so many people (I'm speaking directly to the girls and gays) who are feeling a similar way. I hope to capture even an ounce of this collective experience in a way that feels satisfying and empowering.

With that being said, it's time to introduce myself! My name is Amanda and I'm 20, studying political science in my junior year of college. My favorite movie is Little Miss Sunshine, and I have brat (it's currently brat summer) by charli xcx, Ultraviolence by miss Lana Del Rey, ARTPOP by Lady Gaga, and The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill by none other than Lauryn Hill on repeat right now! I want to write about lifestyle and opinion pieces, fashion, travel, and recipes when I throw down in the kitchen. Occasionally I will drop some knowledge as well. Some other things I find quite pleasing are mugs and teacups, ladybugs, farmer's markets, patchwork, trinkets, and antique stores.

While I cannot promise to publish on a regular basis, I can vow to create a page that is aesthetically captivating as well as intellectually stimulating, whether that be relaxing with a piece about my lazy sunday routine, accompanied by a mini recipe for a sweet treat, or a more serious note about my thoughts on relationships and personal growth.

I hope "iced oatmilk latte" inspires even one person to do something that scratches their itch. I would love to be an outlet for many, and provide comfort as well. Also, my friends think I'm really funny! I'm not sure how well it will translate on paper, but I will try my best to throw in a witty remark here and there.

Much love,

Amanda