thesolcompass

Free Fall-ing

An autumn afternoon spent apple picking is always at the top of everyone’s To-Do list when October rolls around. With the unseasonably warm climate, all I needed for a fun day of hiking and apple picking was my ever-versatile quilted vest thrown over a reliable flannel (nothing says fall in New England quite like a plaid flannel!) These Aerosoles boots are hands down the most comfortable pair of boots I own. They come equipped with standard Aerosoles technology; including cushioned insoles, breathable lining, and an expandable calf fit! They are an absolute necessity for me on any fall adventure that requires a bit of extra walking or uneven terrain. Later this week expect to see some recipes I made from the abundance of apples I gathered today!

xo, Caitlin

Fall Layers

“Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall” F. Scott Fitzgerald

In traditional “back to school” mindset, everything starts over in the fall. Now that it feels like autumn is finally here, I can finally start to break out all of the layers I have been waiting to wear for months now.

A quilted vest is definitely one of my staples for New England autumns. I love how it can add an extra layer of warmth while simultaneously showing off the layer underneath in a way a jacket cannot. For my fun and playful weekend look, I kept the colors simple and consistent throughout by staying with my sweater’s theme of navy and green throughout. I added these bold green earrings and simple navy wrap bracelet along with the navy vest to tie everything together in the cool color scheme. The thick heel on these booties is perfect because it adds a heel without sacrificing comfort or walkability. I love how this bag connects with both the brown watch and shoes as well as the navy in the top layers, I feel it ties up the outfit together nicely but still keeps it casual for a day of fun fall activities! Anyone have any fun plans for the weekend? Would love to hear about them!

Until next time!

xo, Caitlin

Tuesday Shoesday

Today was a gross and rainy day in New England, but nothing a new pair of shoes couldn’t fix!

One of the main items my fall wardrobe had been missing was a crucial pair of leopard print flats that would serve as both fashionable and functional footwear for running around the city in. After conducting a thorough internet search I found (and lusted after!) these Steve Madden ones. But much to my dismay I had a difficult time justifying spending $80 on a pair of flats that I would likely beat up with frequent walks around the city, so I continued my search.

With a brilliant stroke of luck, I happened upon this almost identical pair at American Eagle. They have the same pointed toe, the same strategic arch opening, and, of course, the leopard print. The best part was, they were only $30! The perfect price for an everyday flat. I was tempted to buy two pairs so that I could have another when I inevitably wear down the first pair, because I don’t think I can beat that deal anywhere else!

Summertime Returns

Today in New England felt like anything but autumn, and it looks like this weekend will be in the low 80s as well. I’m the first one to rejoice when the temperatures soar, and celebrated today by breaking out one of my beloved bright dresses and frolicking in the park. Since it is technically fall, I paired it with a dark navy blazer, black purse, and some leopard flats to deter passerby’s from my obvious denial from traditional fashion rules.

Dress: Old Navy

Blazer: Gap

Necklace: J.Crew

Belt: J.Crew

Bracelets: Chan Luu, Lemon & Line

Ring: Lucky Brand

Flats: American Eagle Outfitters

Summer Terminus

One of the endless things I love about summer is the food options it brings. As this week brought chilly mornings and evenings with only a few warm hours a day, I decided today was the perfect opportunity to say ‘farewell’ to summer with some peach treats, and cooking with the windows open for perhaps the last time. My resilient inner New Englander will drink smoothies year round, but these delicious peach muffins won’t settle for anything but freshly picked peaches delivered straight from the farm. Together, the two helped me savor one last warm weather day before the boots and scarves come out again indefinitely.

Peach Raspberry Smoothie

1 cup frozen peaches

1/4 cup frozen raspberries

1 banana

1 cup apple juice

1 cup raspberry yogurt

1 serving vanilla protein powder

Blend in your favorite blender/food processor of choice (I chose my reliable Vitamix) and enjoy!

Peach Muffins

1 cup of sliced peaches

1 1/2 cups flour

1/2 cup yellow cornmeal

1/2 cup vanilla yogurt

1 lemon

1/3 cup sugar

3 tablespoons maple syrup

1 teaspoon almond extract

2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

pinch salt

3 tablespoons egg whites

4 tablespoons butter

4 tablespoons olive oil

Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit

1. In a small bowl whisk together the lemon juice, yogurt, egg whites, maple syrup, and almond extract. After the mixture is smooth, whisk in the butter and olive oil.

2. In a larger bowl, whisk together the sugar, flour, baking powder, baking soda, cornmeal, and salt.

3. Using a wooden spoon, add the liquid mixture to the dry mixture until combined. Slowly fold in the peaches until they are spread evenly throughout the batter.

4. Pour batter into muffin tins (preferably in muffin liners) and bake approximately 25 minutes. Let the muffins cool for five minutes in tin before transferring to a wire rack. I hope you enjoy this last savor of summer as much as I did!