A few years ago, my friend Elle gave this advice to my other friend Rassa at a moment when she needed it most. A moment when Rassa needed someone to give her the most basic, yet most necessary piece of wisdom that exists in this human life: TAKE A FUCKING BREATH.
It's stuck with me ever since that day.
The past few months have taken a toll on just about every person I know. The election (UGH), the holidays and the coming new year always seem to drudge up heated emotions + old insecurities we wish we could obscure from the world. And that collective sense of unease doesn't account for the personal struggles we endure daily that seem magnified by all we can't control.
It's a lot. (I'm pretty sure I became slightly depressed just reading that last paragraph)
So perhaps, it's time I take my own fucking breath.
One gigantic inhale — pause — and an equally gigantic exhale.
This will be my last blog post for awhile. Taking a break (and a fucking breath) are non-negotiables when it comes to leading a happy, sane life. We (read: I) can't do it all, and we (read: I) really need to stop trying. There's been a lot of life jammed into this year, both good and sad — break-ups, big work projects, travel, a website + portfolio update, BABIES, health things — and I'm encroaching into serious burn-out territory. I need auntie time, couch time, nacho time, wine time, friend time and most important, cheesy Hallmark Christmas movie time.
To add to it all, I'm heading to Europe in January for an extended stay! While I planned this trip pre-election, I'm even more excited to travel my way through a handful of countries while working remotely (with a lighter workload!). So, maybe there won't be too much relaxing as I get ready to leave, but when I'm on that plane cruising high over the Atlantic Ocean, be prepared for this.
Until then, here's a list of cute things, worthwhile reads, and some holiday fun, for good measure. If you've got any uplifting additions to this list, please oh please leave links in the comments.
Happy, happy holidays! Be well, friends and see you back in 2017.
The perfect striped tee.
Sweater of my dreams.
On the hunt for a nice dress for the winter / holidays: velvet, metallic polka dots or texture?
H+M nailed their holiday campaign (Wes Anderson #FTW).
I made this easy Coconut Curry Ramen a few weeks ago to rave reviews.
Currently reading these two books (here and here).
Solving the problem of fake news. So good.
The science of happily ever after. EVERYONE NEEDS TO READ THIS NOW.
How to coach your brain to stop being mad at someone.
How to overcome worry and be a friendlier person.
How each Myers-Briggs personality type reacts to stress. I'm an ENFP, and this could not be more accurate. (via Teri)
Holiday shopping guides! It seems every blogger I read has put one together, and here are a few of my favorites thus far:
- For the guys
- For the gals
- For the kiddos
- Giving the gift of charity (how to do it right)
- How to holiday shop ethically + smartly
Simple reminders for the holiday season. <3
Also, the print I designed for Oh, Ladycakes is back in stock! 25% off right now.
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