Big Girl Back-to-School is in session.

My mom likes to say that in the summer, she’s a grasshopper. She’s here, there, and everywhere, taking full advantage of the season. Then, when fall rolls around, she turns back into an ant. She settles in, gets focused, and returns to her routines until grasshopper season comes around again.

My friends, I regret to inform you: grasshopper season is nearly over.

It’s time to get back into our routines, set some new goals, and generally get our lives together. It’s Big Girl Back-to-School, if you will.

As much as I love the freedom of summer, there’s something equally satisfying about returning to a little structure. I’ve learned that when I build routines I genuinely enjoy, I actually crave them.

So, as I slowly turn back into an ant, here are the eight things helping me get back into my routines for fall.

1. A New Work Bag
Nothing says back-to-school like a new bag. Here are all the ones I'm deciding between.

2. The Closing Shift
Taking a few minutes to close the house is all about small gestures that make tomorrow feel easier before it even begins. 

Read the blog post >

3. My Bedtime Routine
This is one of those rituals I look forward to because it makes me feel good.

Read the blog post >


| photography by andie furber |

4. Packing My Lunch
It's a small act of caring for myself, and I'm really excited to pack my lunch in this cute lunchbox.

5. Back to the Books
As I'm getting back into my routines, I'm also prioritizing reading (especially before bed). My Kindle is one of the best investments I've ever made.

6. A New Notebook
I swear new notebooks have a very nostalgic smell. Here's the one I bought for all my fall thoughts.

| photography by andie furber |

7. The September Uniform
As I ease into transitional dressing, I'm resorting to all the classics.

The Elusive Perfect White Tee >
Relaxed Denim >
Fashion-Forward Sneakers >

8. A Standing Date With Yourself
One recurring thing that makes the routine feel good rather than restrictive: Friday flowers, Saturday morning coffee and the farmers market, a weekly workout class, Wednesday night takeout, etc.

| photography by andie furber |

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Andie Furber