Hello, hello and happy Tues… Wednesday! Short work weeks: the best and the worst. I mean, we’re half way back to the weekend already, but I NEED MORE DAYS TO DO ALL THE THINGS. When we got home from Lake Tahoe on Monday evening, I had no energy to get a post together for Tuesday, hence why we’re a little late this week. Yesterday, my brain was all over the place thinking about lots of random things — you know how it goes, when you’ve got a lot on your mind and it’s messing with your productivity. I had this idea to think out loud here, and thought you might enjoy doing it with me. It’s kind of a fun way to check in with you, my lovely readers. Ready for this? (Also: welcome to the things I think about as I brush my teeth.)
Habit I’m trying to break
Saying I’m going to get ready for bed at 10pm, then “accidentally” watching another episode of something off the DVR, then not getting into bed until 11 or 11:30, at which point I want to read but don’t feel like I have time to enjoy it. Welcome to my nightly struggle!
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Habit I’m trying to continue
Earlier this summer, you might remember when I mentioned having a minor health breakdown and getting a rash/eczema on my face. I never went into a ton of details about what cured it (and me), but in a nutshell: supplements. Lots of them. I’ve always been a big believer in diet changing how you look and feel, but the supplements this integrative specialist prescribed me? Turbo charge. I felt a little nuts taking like 6 different supplements multiple times per day, so recently, I’d scaled back. While none of the severe symptoms (like major fatigue, rash, eczema) came back, what I did realize is that the supplements have given me the absolute best skin of my life, and did boost my energy immensely. So I’m working on remembering to integrate these back into my daily life, twice per day, instead of on random nights when I remember. I got carded more this summer than I have in years. Coincidence? Maybe. But coupled with lots of compliments on my skin, I like to think it’s the pills.
Sidebar: is anyone interested in me going into what the doc prescribed me? The short version is lots of omega-3s, but I can get wayyy more specific if you want me to do a health related post! I can also discuss the source of my fatigue over the summer: adrenal fatigue, which apparently is something a lot of women suffer from. Let me know if of interest, or if you want me to shut up about it already. That’s cool too. (Joe always says diet, health, workouts and politics are the topics you should not discuss in polite company. I have generally found this to be true.)
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Best experience of the summer
It was a weird summer. Good times, and bad. But I did have one experience in July that I never really talked about except to some friends. I had the opportunity to meet with a psychic medium here in SF. Ok, now you think I’ve officially gone crazy. I had, too! I had never done anything like that before, and really had no expectations or belief systems going in. But I can say it was one of the most profound, emotionally positive experiences of my life. Easily the best experience of my entire summer, if not the last 20 years, and I seriously mean that. Have you ever had a reading done? Maybe you don’t even believe in that kind of shit (I don’t know if I even did before), but it was really incredible.
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Getting me excited for fall
This is reeeally shallow, but boots. I saved for MONTHS to splurge on a pair of Stuart Weitzman Midland suede boots (this is a new heel height — higher than the flat Lowlands; not high heeled like the Highlands). I brought them with me to Tahoe since the evening weather was so much colder there, and it got me that much more excited to break them out over the fall and winter here in SF. Too bad our summer weather is making its appearance this month…
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Current thing I’m learning to love about myself
I would venture to say that the vast majority of us engage in some sort of negative, internal body talk at some point during the day or week. For me, I beat myself up about not making time to exercise or my metabolism slowing down and gaining pounds. Ok, it’s really about my pants fitting tighter, especially after vacation weekends. I’m trying to work on reminding myself that I’m doing the best I can, and that my shape now doesn’t have to equal my shape when I was 18 (in fact, it’s probably not gonna happen!).
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Current thing I do love about myself
Good skin everyday. See: supplements.
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Book I really can’t wait to read
I’ve been on book buying and researching kick, since I have a bunch of getaways coming up and wanted reading material. For fiction, I recently downloaded Everything We Keep. It’s one of those books you come across, has thousands of positive reviews, and you’re like, “How have I not heard of this?” I’m saving this one for our trip to Hawaii — a perfect beach read. For non-fiction, I can’t wait to read Present Over Perfect: Leaving Behind Frantic for a Simpler, More Soulful Way of Living (kind of self explanatory, no?) and Work for Money, Design for Love (gotta get a work-related book in there somehow!). For coffee table, I can’t wait to dive into Becca’s book Living With Pattern, and for Mark D. Sikes’ debut of Beautiful: All American Decorating and Timeless Style.
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Task I haven’t done yet that’s driving me crazy
Putting the office together! I nearly have all the pieces — the extra pinboards, framed and ready pictures for a personal gallery wall, a new console on its way. Now I just gotta put all the pieces together. It’s been sort of a mess in the studio while I’ve been waiting to get everything in, hence why I haven’t shared any other updates. But soon! Hopefully by early October this puppy will be done!
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On the docket for this weekend (because it’s Wednesday so we can get excited again)
We’re hosting a game day get together for USC friends on Saturday. I think I’m making skirt steak with arugula (fingers crossed it turns out well so I can post about it next week!). Sunday, Jillian and I are headed down south to visit our friend Natalie and her new baby. Fall’s busy social season starts now.
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Ok, your turn. If you want to participate in this little Thinking Out Loud exercise, copy and paste the prompts into the comments below and have at it! I’d love to hear what you’ve been thinking about (and feel free to add your own if you need to get something off your chest!).
Habit I’m trying to break:
Habit I’m trying to continue:
Best experience of the summer:
Getting me excited for fall:
Current thing I’m learning to love about myself:
Current thing I do love about myself:
Book(s) I really can’t wait to read:
Task I haven’t done yet that’s driving me crazy:
On the docket for this weekend:
Great post. And yes, I’d love to hear more about your supplements! I have been struggling with acne and some sort of sebhoric dermatitis on my face. I’m pretty sure it’s all caused by internal causes, because no amount of proper skincare is helping. Any thoughts you have to achieve the glowing skin you’re rocking, I’d love to know!
Ohhh yes. I got you covered. Those types of skin ailments, when not treatable with standard OTC acne washes (specifically containing either salicylic acid or peroxide) usually point to internal inflammation. I think the supplements will help! As you can see below, LOTS of people requested more info, so I’m going to share soon, along with many other skincare tips I’ve learned to avoid your exact symptoms!
Ooohh this is fun! I’m going to play.
Habit I’m trying to break: Spending too much money.
Habit(s) I’m trying to continue: Practicing and studying my French, stretching 6 nights a week and reading a little every day. Smiling at strangers. That last one may sound really strange but I am shy and it is a way for me to come out of my shell.
Best experience of the summer: I am am amateur aerialist and I did a two week intensive class in early August – 8 classes in two weeks with some of the best friends I’ve ever made because we all cheer each other on and push each other. It was INTENSE. But I am so much stronger and confident because of it.
Getting me excited for fall: I have a Central/Eastern Europe trip coming up next month and a friend from LA is joining me. We are really excited to travel abroad together and to have an adventure. She’s excited to wear fall clothes and to be honest, so am I (I live in Chicago).
Current thing I’m learning to love about myself: My lack of patience for things (ahem, the traditional milestones in life) to happen to me. I don’t necessarily think a lack of patience is a good thing, but I have learned to fill my life spending time with family and friends who love me and with activities and travel that I love.
Current thing I do love about myself: I just chopped off about 6 inches of hair to a bob and I’ve never had more compliments. I think shorter hair really works on me. Also, I’m training for a marathon and I’m happy that I felt GOOD after my 20 mile run last weekend. It is amazing what the body can do if the mind is positive.
Book(s) I really can’t wait to read: I just finished a good one (Coming Clean: A Memoir) and I think I am going to read Fates and Furies before getting back on a WWII non-fiction kick.
Task I haven’t done yet that’s driving me crazy: Hung all of my photos and art on the walls in my new apartment. It has only been a week so I should cut myself some slack but it is still driving me crazy.
On the docket for this weekend: Indoor rock climbing with a friend, hanging artwork, relaxing.
I love all your answers! And just so you know, from the outside looking in, it sounds like your life is so full, diverse, and joyful. I think that just makes the traditional milestones — if/when they happen — the cherry on top of an otherwise beautiful existence!
Thank you very much for saying that Victoria, I do feel like I have a joyful and full life. I am enjoying reading everyone else’s responses. I always say this when I comment on your blog but you consistently are a happy place for me to come and read. You come across as smart and authentic yet your writing and projects are inspiring. Your readers are smart, diverse, and inspiring as well.
Thanks, Sonya! :D Made my morning.
Yes please on supplements! Would LOVE to hear!
Here are my responses below : )
Habit I’m trying to break: Snacking in that weird time before dinner at work. I’m not really hungry just bored and need to instead drink more tea or water. Much easier said than done in that 4-6pm range….
Habit I’m trying to continue: Not watching as much Netflex and actually getting work done. I’m taking a coding class (working on changing careers one day – inspired by the changes you’ve made and share so thank you!) but working a full time job in NYC and taking a coding class feels like I’m constantly working. Not turning on the TV to veg out has been extremely helpful but I find moments where that’s all I want to do. Trying to stay strong!
Best experience of the summer: We just got a dog and absolutely love her! Since we have her, she’s a corgi mix and loves to play fetch, we’ve spent the last two weekends at Central Park since the weather has been gorgeous and it has given me so much life! Seeing her and my husband play fetch and how happy people get when they see her running around has just given me so much joy. Definitely the cheapest form of entertainment and I wouldn’t trade it for the world!
Getting me excited for fall: The plaid button up I just got at Uniqlo got me so excited for fall! I can’t wait to wear jeans again, without burning up, walking around the city when the leaves are changing colors and not feeling like a crazy person when I always drink hot coffee. For some reason I have issues with iced coffee.
Current thing I’m learning to love about myself: My weight. I’ve always been fit but sometimes, like you mentioned, after a vacation or a day or night of to much drinking/eating I get frustrated with myself but I try to remember that it’s okay. Today is a new day and I can eat better. I’m already drinking more water than I used to and I’m cutting down on portion sizes. A slip up every once in awhile isn’t bad.
Current thing I do love about myself: My endless dreaming. My husband supports me but finds it funny when I say I want this and this and this and this etc in a job. He’s like you know those are hard to find and I know that but I do believe they are out there. I also am trying to learn more about index investing and net worth to put us in a better place than we have been before. Just dreaming about retiring early or being able to be in a job I love opposed to one I take just for the money and healthcare.
Book(s) I really can’t wait to read: Sad to say but I wander into Book Culture in Morningside Heights always hoping I’ll buy a book but I don’t have any on my mind so I often leave empty handed. I hate doing that since I do love to read but between work, class, and – I’m really into podcasts now – I don’t feel like I have time to read. I’m hoping to check out the one you recommended and hop back on that reading train!
Task I haven’t done yet that’s driving me crazy: Really deep cleaned our apartment. With the dog, who sheds, it feels like it’s a constant uphill battle. Hoping we can take care of that soon
On the docket for this weekend: Throwing a bridal shower for my best friend! I’ve been nervous, anxious, and excited about this. I’m not a party planner at all and I’m the only bridesmaid in the city so it’s been extremely stressful for the past 2-3 weeks. I’m hopeful that things go smoothly and she loves it : )
Thanks for posting this Victoria! I love your blog and this post with the questions was wondering in hearing where you are and also making me really think about what I’ve actually been feeling. Easy to forget about in New York.
I could tell from reading this that you were thinking out loud too and I kinda loved it! I have a few thoughts:
Habit to continue: I feel you on this. When I was trying to build something so I could leave my traditional day job, I worked multiple nights, weekends, was always on my computer, the works. It was really hard for a year or two, but keep the end goal in mind — it’s worth it.
Best experience: Yes! I love this and can relate. When we first got Lucy, the immense joy it brought to our lives was so eye opening!
Learning to love: Me too. I’m trying to work on portion sizes too. But can I toot my own horn and just sometimes I make really damn good food? It’s hard not to go back for more (or mindlessly eat while we watch the DVR).
Task to do: We had this issue recently. Can I make a suggestion? We bit the bullet and hired a cleaning service for a one-time super deep clean. It was worth EVERY penny. I mean, these gals removed and cleaned the knobs on the stove, along with the mechanisms behind them! It made me realize it was worth it to throw money at the situation versus stress about it every weekend, which I’d been doing for 6 weeks (ok, maybe longer…). My husband liked it so much too that now we have the service come once a month for light cleaning (bathrooms, kitchen, floors).
Weekend: I’m sure it’s going to be beautiful! Have a great time!
Habit I’m trying to break: Procrastinating. I may or may not be doing that right now but I’d like to be more intentional about my time, which means focusing at work. Also going to bed on time!
Habit I’m trying to continue: Leaving work and blogging out of my evenings. With two small kids I want to focus on them, then have some chill out time either to myself or with my husband after they go to bed.
Best experience of the summer: Spending 12 days on Cape Cod with my husband’s family, which was the first with two kids.
Getting me excited for fall: The weather! The pumpkin everything! The festivities! The fashion! Everything about fall makes me happy.
Current thing I’m learning to love about myself: My body. Ugh. I had my second child 8 months ago & my tummy has always been my problem area, so this has been a struggle. I also love food and hate exercise, so part of learning to love my body is also loving the ability to take care of it. I’m on Weight Watchers and attempting to work out, so trying to embrace the fact that I am being healthy about it.
Current thing I do love about myself: I am loving my focus, which may sound weird but I am normally a very unfocused person. I think something has clicked now in my life where I have a clearer vision of work/life balance and what ideally I want from my career. Which has been a long struggle for me!
Book(s) I really can’t wait to read: Alexander Hamilton. It’s a work in progress but since I’m a history teacher I’m excited that a historical figure is trendy!
Task I haven’t done yet that’s driving me crazy: Creating yearly photo albums. I’ve been saying I’ll do it since my daughter was born and she’s now 3.
On the docket for this weekend: A girl’s night out (much needed!) and some family snuggle time.
I’m with you on fall. I love autumn — it’s just the BEST. I’ve been wanting to read Alexander Hamilton too. I’ll cop to having not been familiar with it at all until the musical blew up, but hey, any book that can inspire a Tony-award winning piece of work has to be pretty interesting!
Are you looking to create physical photo album books of your babies? Or something digital?
On your comment about about seeing a medium. A year ago while on vacation, my sister and I decided to get our tarot cards read for fun. We had never done anything like it before and I was extremely skeptical but thought it could be a fun experience even if it was totally fake. I was so blown away. Immediately when I sat down at the table with the psychic who was going to read my cards (my sister went into a different room with another psychic) she said there was someone there with me. I was a little confused so I just shook my head in disbelief and we proceeded on with my cards.
I had not told her anything about myself not even my name but she knew so much about me. She knew what field I worked in. She knew I was unhappy with my job and that I had been job searching outside of the field I was working in. She told me to stop worrying about it that in December I would change jobs but still be in the same field. A job in my field did fall into my lap in December and it has been wonderful.
She also knew very personal things about me that I had never told anyone.
But one of the things that has really stayed with me the most though is that she stopped my tarot card reading and said that the person who was with me was being insistent. She proceeded to describe my grandfather and said it was important that I know that he is with me.
The experience was amazing and I am looking forward to doing something similar again.
Yeah, my limited research into it tells me that some people are the real deal and anyone who says they have bad news or can fix a problem for you for money is a scam and you should run from them. The real deal folks, though, can be absolutely incredible.
I have lost a fair number of people in my life, so talking with them (if you can call it that; if you “talked” to your grandpa I’m sure you know what I mean) was very healing. The medium I saw knew things about me and my relationships I’d never told anyone. Though, really it was just those spirits telling the medium, it’s not like he really knew, per se. What was crazy was he mentioned all these people I didn’t know. Then I went home and mentioned some of the names to my mom, and they were all relatives or past relationships of the departed people I’d been talking to. That was nuts — someone knowing things that YOU didn’t even know about your family members!
I’m thinking about going again next year too! (The person I saw only lets you come once per year, which I think is interesting). Thank you so much for sharing your experience :) I’m really glad to hear it was so positive for you too.
I love when you do a post like this!! It is so much more real than a lot of other blogs I follow. I would also really love to hear about the supplements you have been taking. I am a skin care junkie and really enjoy hearing about others routines!
Done and done!
Yes to the supplements!
Habit I’m trying to break: Procrastinating things that bring me fear and anxiety. For example, I have been putting off reaching out to a good friend (we met in daycare at the age of 4) about not being able to make it to her wedding because a trip we have planned is happening the same weekend. I was so worried she would be upset or I would come off as selfish, but I finally did it today and she couldn’t have been more lax about it. A huge weight could have been lifted off my shoulders a long time ago if I just bit the bullet and got it over with.
Habit I’m trying to continue: Flossing. Admittedly, I go in spurts.
Best experience of the summer: Moving to Chicago!
Getting me excited for fall: This amazing little navy dress I got last week from Ted Baker! There is nothing better than feeling good in your clothes.
Current thing I’m learning to love about myself: Certain areas of my body I can’t change due to genetics :)
Current thing I do love about myself: My ability to say “no” to things/people/events/etc. because I have my best interest and wellbeing in mind.
Book(s) I really can’t wait to read: I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Truly Madly Guilty, but I’ve been struggling to get into it! (not the case with Big Little Lies and The Husband’s Secret)
Task I haven’t done yet that’s driving me crazy: Switched our bank accounts over to a new provider. I know what a daunting task it’s going to be considering our numbers and cards are linked to soooo many things.
On the docket for this weekend: Hopefully a few workouts and a trip to the market after having company in town for the long weekend.
Yay! I have follow up thoughts:
Habit to break: You are familiar with Brene Brown, yes? Some of what you wrote about, specifically about leaning into fear and anxiety ties in well with her work around vulnerability. You might really enjoy reading Daring Greatly, if you haven’t already. I can relate though — worrying about disappointing people has been something I’ve spent years trying to grow out of!
Habit to continue: Wait. You read the news about how there is no clinical research around flossing benefits, right? http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/03/health/flossing-teeth-cavities.html?_r=0
Loving about yourself: PREACH. Saying no and becoming “selfish” have been the best behaviors I’ve learned over the last two years. My first thought when you mentioned the wedding you can’t attend is “you must have a really good reason as to why you can’t, or you don’t really want to go…and either is totally fine.”
I have not! Looking into Daring Greatly now. As for the flossing…WHAT. So crazy.
Hope you’re enjoying the weekend!
I love reading your posts, and would be keen to hear about the supplements in particular. I started drinking a green juice daily and saw a nice improvement in my nails and skin, so I’d love to add to that and keep it going!
Habit I’m trying to break:
Being a slow starter in the morning. While I recognise I’m not a morning person, I’m trying to be more productive with life tasks if I’m not going to start work stuff.
Habit I’m trying to continue:
Drinking green juice and bone broth daily!
Best experience of the summer:
(Our winter here in New Zealand) Cheesy, but planning our wedding.
Getting me excited for fall (spring!):
Travelling to Ireland for our friend’s wedding!
Current thing I’m learning to love about myself:
That I’m a free spirit and it’s okay to be who I am in all areas of my life.
Current thing I do love about myself:
How strong I’ve become this past year (I was recovering from a broken femur and diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis about a year and half ago. So seeing how far I’ve come and how much strength I’ve developed makes me so dang happy!).
Book(s) I really can’t wait to read:
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown… and need to find a vacation book to read for Ireland, I love memoirs.
Task I haven’t done yet that’s driving me crazy:
Organised my office (same as you!).
On the docket for this weekend:
Organisation (bathroom, office, paper basket with all our household items!) and brunching with friends
Supplements info coming up!
Habit to break: Confession: I nearly wrote this exact habit instead of my one about going to bed late (wait, maybe they’re connected). Recently, I just can’t get the creative part of my brain going until the afternoon! It’s just not happening. I’m trying not to beat myself up about it too much…like maybe that’s when I do my best work, so why fight it? In the morning I’ve been doing administrative stuff, reading, cruising around online. I feel a little guilty about it sometimes, but other days, I’m reminding myself to let it ride.
For Fall/Spring: Wow! NZ to Ireland will be such a journey! That sounds like a ton of fun.
Learning to love about yourself: YES!!!
Do love about yourself: That’s amazing! Congratulations. There is nothing so incredible as seeing your body heal itself and grow strong!
Books: Ha, funny, I mentioned Brene to Jess above! All her works are great. I really liked Gifts and Daring Greatly!
Thanks for participating! :)
I’m curious to hear about your supplements! I also have adrenal fatigue and went on an adrenal/thyroid supplement regime earlier this year. After taking a week or so off in June (solely out of laziness and forgetting to take them) I noticed myself feeling run down again and realized it’s because I wasn’t taking my supplements! I’m now hooked and swear by them.
I’ve also battled eczema my entire life and would love to hear what worked for you!
Curious about YOUR supplements and if they differed from mine. A big one for me (specifically related to adrenal fatigue) was Phyto-ADR. That one has less impact on skin, which I know is what everyone REALLY wants to hear about, but it’s specifically formulated to help regenerate adrenaline levels (and therefore, energy). I think with the other supplements I’m on, you might see a change in the eczema too. Stay tuned! :)
Yes, would love to read more health specific posts!
I’m a USC fan & am heading up to LA (from SD) for the game on Saturday. Earliest start time ever!
Yeah, 11am?! I realized that this week too…I’ll be up early preparing snacks! Fight on. :)
i would love to get the contact info for your medium. can you let me know?
Hi Catherine, absolutely. I visited Felix Lee Lerma here in SF. Here’s his Yelp page: https://www.yelp.com/biz/felix-lee-lerma-san-francisco?sort_by=date_desc A heads up that he books quite far in advance, so if you are a local or in the area and want to meet with him, expect to wait about 6-8 weeks. It was worth the wait though! Let me know if you have any other questions.
Loved this post! Definitely interested in hearing more about the supplements and the psychic visit (?!?!!)
xo Jules
More to come on supplements for sure! I had no idea everyone would be so interested in my pills, haha!
Shoot me an email at [email protected] if you want more details on the visit or have specific questions. Happy to share, it’s just a lot of the things discussed deal with some personal family matters, so I don’t want to share vivid details so publicly!
Habit I’m trying to break: Staying up too late
Habit I’m trying to continue: Seeing friends. I’ve been really busy lately but making time to see people anyway and I think it has done me some good!
Best experience of the summer: We did a road trip through Central Europe and it was amazing. Good to see some friends who have moved, and also good to spend all that time in a car together talking about life
Current thing I do love about myself: My patience! I was told that I would receive a job offer when I finish my MSc thesis from the company where I have been working for 1.5 years, and I was just told that they have decided that they don’t have enough “headcount” (pfft) and they’d like me to continue working as an intern. But I am being patient, updating my LinkedIn and playing it cool. And I am proud of myself for not losing it even though I have been counting on this for a long time.
Book(s) I really can’t wait to read: Distinction: A Social Critique of the Judgement of Taste by Pierre Bourdieu. It looks so interesting! My fiancé and I both work in places where everyone is in a much higher social class than we are, so I’m interested to read this book as I think it might shed some light on… something. I don’t know what, but being surrounded by intergenerational wealth has made me curious about class.
Task I haven’t done yet that’s driving me crazy: Cleaning the oven. Our parents have even bought us oven cleaner as a gift and no progress yet.
On the docket for this weekend: Thesis writing, dinner with friends and swimming
I think you’re well within your right to feel suuuuper disappointed in your company. That’s lame. Good for you for updating your LinkedIn and keeping options open!
I am really interested in that book you mentioned too. It just went on my Amazon wish list!
YES PLEASE – I’m very interested in supplements to help skin look better. :)
Habit I’m trying to break: poor time management. I need to really prioritize my business more if I want to go at it 110% – also a new revelation this past summer.
Habit I’m trying to continue: waking up at 5am to get work done before work.
Best experience of the summer: Belize in July for a wedding + my birthday
Getting me excited for fall: leggings and tights with dresses! I miss it so much.
Current thing I’m learning to love about myself: I’m far more disciplined that I think I am. I just have to make a schedule, set alarms, and get myself excited about it.
On the docket for this weekend: learning how to use and operate my new website! :) I’m excited, but so so nervous. AND there’s a taco festival in town too.
Yeah girl, you are SO freaking disciplined, it’s incredible! And don’t be nervous…pretty sure you will figure out the new WP backend in like a weekend, then be a pro at it!
Hi Victoria, I’d love to hear more about the supplements you’ve been taking and the fatigue you were experiencing. As someone who also experiences daily fatigue I’m very curious.
Coming right up! I wonder if my fatigue symptoms will match yours. Adrenal fatigue has a very specific set of symptoms that start off looking one way, then quickly transition to another (it’s fight then flight at its finest). More info soon.
I love the quick update posts! Here’s my update:
Habit I’m trying to break: Snoozing in the morning and then taking an Uber…to expensive!
Habit I’m trying to continue: Getting more sleep and eating better.
Best experience of the summer: Polo match in Newport with friends :)
Getting me excited for fall: Pulling out sweaters and boots and closer to my fiance’s birthday and our wedding planning trip to Charleston
Current thing I’m learning to love about myself: Hmmm…maybe trying to learn to love how passionate (to a fault) that I can be. Sometimes I care too much and/or take things too seriously or too much to heart. Often that manifests itself as stress, anxiety or conversations I replay over and over because I’m concerned I did or said something wrong. But I’m trying to embrace it, manage the stress better, and recognize that the passion isn’t always a bad thing. Rather it might be telling me what I find most important.
Current thing I do love about myself: My better eating and more exercise!
Book(s) I really can’t wait to read: Everybody Rise…it’s overdue at the library and I just haven’t really picked it up yet. I also can’t wait for the third installment in Crazy Rich Asians next summer.
Task I haven’t done yet that’s driving me crazy: This one is wedding related, but I shouldn’t air it here…eek!
On the docket for this weekend: Nothing. Sleep, gym, brunch, cooking, tea, and book. Repeat. :)
Congrats on your engagement! How did you pick Charleston as your wedding destination? I am working on planning a trip there with two friends next spring! We’re going to focus on antiquing and doing historical home tours. We are all old ladies at heart. ;)
Great post! I’d like to hear more about the supplements. I worked with a nutritionist for 9 months to help clear my psoriasis ( over 80% of my body was covered) and part of my healing included supplements.
Ooh! I will be SO curious to know if some of the supplements overlapped. Borage oil pills, anyone?
Loved this! I’m in the middle of busy season (taking a brain break right this second), but I might have to do a similar post on my blog! Supplements are doing wonders for my skin, too. I also started putting collagen peptides in my morning smoothies and wow… Anyway, I just finished Everything We Keep. So good!
Would love to see a health post and post on your supplement regime!
Great post, Victoria! I’m all about supplements lately. Happy to hear it’s working for you! I had to start taking iron supplements back in June as I found out my iron was extremely low (I was getting terrible headaches and feeling dizzy). Everything is back on track now yay!
Everything We Keep has been on my reading list, but I’m trying to stick to my summer reading list. I’ve read 46 books so far this year (I’m
aiming for 100). Recent favourites: Food and
the City by Ina Yalof (Highly, highly
recommend since you love food!), I Let You Go
by Clare Mackintosh, Big Little Lies by Liane
Moriarty, The End of Your Life Book Club by
Will Schwalbe, The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh, The Good Father by
Noah Hawley, Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi (Currently reading).
Habit I’m trying to break: Consuming too much
sugar!
Habit I’m trying to continue: Drinking at least 7
glasses of water every day
Best experience of the summer: This is a tough
one, but I’ll go with landing my dream job at a
health and wellness centre! Also, going to my first baseball game in eight years. Had such a blast!????
Books I really can’t wait to read: Before the Fall by Noah Hawley (up next on my summer reading list), All is Not Forgotten by Wendy
Walker, and Bright, Precious Days by Jay
McInerney.
On the docket for this weekend: Rollerblading
along the trails by the waterfront! I haven’t been rollerblading since last summer.
Enjoy the weekend!
Love this post (and I’m posting my answers to my blog Friday and linking back to you–I hope you don’t mind!)
Here are my answers:
Habit I’m trying to break:
I have been so, so bad about getting up when my alarm goes off to work out before work. If I don’t work out first thing in the morning it doesn’t happen and hitting snooze has been a major part of my life for the last year and a half. My metabolism just isn’t what it used to be and I feel so much better when I exercise, so I’m really going to try to work on this (and having a running buddy definitely gets me out the door so I’m going to try to do more group runs).
Habit I’m trying to continue:
Ever since I bought Garnier’s Micellar Cleansing Water, I’ve become a pro at taking off my makeup/”washing” my face each night. I like this so much more than cleansing wipes–it makes my skin so soft and my face doesn’t feel dry afterwards–and it does a good job of getting rid of mascara. I’m a total convert.
Best experience of the summer:
This one is kind of bittersweet, but I would say spending time with my family when my grandmother was sick. I went out to Western Massachusetts almost every weekend with my sister, and I loved the time I got to spend with her, my grandparents and my aunt and my mom…and I also loved the time I got to spend one on one with my dad–we had dinner together almost every night while my mom was away and it was great to have that time with him.
Getting me excited for fall:
Oh my God, I’m so excited for the cooler sleeping temps. My bedroom gets pretty hot from the sun during the day and coupled with my abnormally high body temp I get hot when I sleep. I love this time of year when I can have the windows open with a cool breeze and I’m not sweltering under the covers.
Current thing I’m learning to love about myself:
Ahhhhhh, this is a tough one. Raincheck?
Current thing I do love about myself:
I love that I’m happy and content being alone. For a really long time, I felt like total crap for being in my 30’s (now mid-thirties) and not being married with kids, when 99% percent of my friends from college and high school are in that place. It took some time, but I can honestly say I’m happy. I think I’ve learned a lot about myself over the past 10 years and while there have been some serious bumps in the road, I think my experiences have shaped who I am and I’m feeling rather pleased with my current situation.
Book(s) I really can’t wait to read:
This is a tough one, because I’m book obsessed and usually read the “hot” books as soon as they’re released (nerd alert). Most nights I prefer going to bed at around 8 and reading for a couple of hours in lieu of watching T.V. (which makes me question why I’m paying so much for cable)…so, I’m going to check out Everything We Keep.
Task I haven’t done yet that’s driving me crazy:
I have a closet in my dining room that’s filled with various things and I really need to clean it out and organize it but I’ve been putting it off for too long. Every weekend I tell myself I’m going to tackle it (and it would seriously take a half hour) but I’m the laziest.
On the docket for this weekend:
Perhaps some closet cleaning and a run? Other than that, maybe picking up some mums for my front steps…no plan is sometimes the best plan.
Love your response to “current thing I love about myself. ” marriage and children don’t equal everything!
Agreed 1000%!
Oh and for us local SF people, would LOVE to know the name of the psychic!!
Hi Bridget — sorry, I missed this somehow! Email me at [email protected] for more info.
This post is amazing!!! I’m so intrigued by everything you wrote, ESPECIALLY THE SUPPLEMENTS. Please please please do a post on what has transformed your skin because I need some supps in my life. Glad you are feeling and looking your best!
I for one would be very interested in reading about the supplements you are using. I’d love to up my skin game via nutrition and supplements.
Thanks!
The psychic medium thing probably was mind blowing! I believe in it, but due to my religious beliefs, it’s not encouraged for multiple reasons. I’m sure it was very emotional!
Habit I’m trying to break:
The EXACT habit as you! I feel stressed starting to read after 11pm. 9pm is ideal but after 11, I feel like I’ll be too tired the next day.
Habit I’m trying to continue:
Taking ALL of my makeup off before bed!
Best experience of the summer:
Going to NYC and scouring a new job, and also, seeing Beyonce in concert!!
Getting me excited for fall:
My birthday!
Current thing I’m learning to love about myself:
My weight. I’m just a Size 8, but in high school, (which was 7 years old) I was a Size 3. 8 is a great size, but it’s just weird to think of all the weight I’ve gained.
Current thing I do love about myself:
My hair! I have an afro, which I love to style and is interestingly a convo starter.
Book(s) I really can’t wait to read:
Empire of Storms. It’s the 6th book in a high fantasy series that I love, and Life in Motion: Misty Copeland’s autobiography.
Task I haven’t done yet that’s driving me crazy:
Unpacking from last week’s trip!
On the docket for this weekend:
Reading, laundry, junk food and relaxation.
This was fun!
Would love to hear more about the supplements you’re on! Ever since having a thyroid ablation three years ago, it has taken me that long to lose the 40 lbs I gained then. My weight is almost back to normal (for me), but my skin has been really freaking out a lot lately. I could also use more energy (don’t we all LOL). So I’d really love to know what you have been taking to give you such awesome skin and crazy energy! Please do share!! :)
Habit I’m trying to break: Also the going to bed earlier thing. Randy and I do the exact same thing about making a plan to go read before going to sleep or getting ready for bed in time, but we always end up watching one more episode on Netflix when we shouldn’t. LOL.
Habit I’m trying to continue: My skincare and diet regimes. I’ve made a real focus to always be drinking 8-10 oz of water daily, eat healthy with lots of vegetables and maintain a strict calorie intake as well as use as many organic skin care products as I can.
Best experience of the summer: Getting back into the workforce by working as a design assistant for one of my interior design idols :)
Getting me excited for fall: Football season always puts me in the mood (as nerdy and tomboyish as that sounds), but also stocking up on chic sweaters and new jeans for the cooler weather. Plus buying woodsy smelling candles always puts me in the mood for fall weather. It is my absolute favorite time of year! I never have a bad day in the fall and always wake up with a smile on my face. LOL.
Current thing I’m learning to love about myself: My confidence in my own skin. I don’t get embarrassed anymore when I have a pimple or trip in front of someone LOL. I also love that I have finally mastered small talk after all my awkward social years and never feeling like I know how to act around strangers.
Current thing I do love about myself: My hair, as superficial as that sounds. I’ve had a pixie cut for like 10 years and I finally have grown it out over the last year (which I was never able to stick it out and do before) and I’ve managed to keep it incredibly healthy. I know that sounds so lame to love that about myself, but I do! Can’t help it! :)
Book(s) I really can’t wait to read: Too many to name. I was such a bookworm as a kid and read hundreds of books and the hardest ones I could find for my age. Now I’ve kind of lost that because of time (we’re always so busy), but I’ve got a list of ones I need to get to and it is LONG.
Task I haven’t done yet that’s driving me crazy: Cleaning the house. Now that I’ve gone back to working full time after three years of being at home, it has gotten much harder to stay on track of cleaning. I am always so exhausted at the end of the day and during the weekend I just want to relax so it’s hard to find the motivation or time to want to clean up and do laundry, etc.
On the docket for this weekend: Watching football! Also trying to clean the house. I know that is SO lame, but something I really appreciate doing now after really long and exhausting work weeks. This is what you look forward to when you get to your mid-30s LOL.
Hi Victoria! I’d love to hear about what specific supplements you are taking for your skin!
Would LOVE a complete supplement rundown. I can never get enough of what’s working for rashy skin or just maintenance in general.
Much thanks!!!
Okay, I have to share my medium experience with you. I thought it would be like a fun carnival game where she’d read my palm and tell me I’m going to get rich and live a great life. I ended up sitting down with the nicest lady and before she started the reading she told me there was a spirit who wouldn’t leave her alone until she relayed their message. She then told me a TON of super personal stuff from the nanny who raised me, who had died a few months before. It caught me completely off guard and was one of the most wonderful, painful and healing conversations I’ve ever had with anyone and I now try to meet up with her twice a year.