Weekly Whimsy | No. 2

I joined a gym for the first time since becoming a mom. A new one opened up close to our house at the end of last year and we toured it when I was pregnant. I had a feeling then that this was it, if I was ever going to make it back to the gym. The next step was to have the baby and then find the motivation. So here we are. A few weeks ago we sat down and I figured out that if I could get myself there even just twice a week it would be worth it. So I looked at schedules and committed to two particular days after preschool drop off, during Henry’s nap when I felt like I could make it work. I’m surprised to find that the hardest part so far hasn’t been the motivation to go or the working out while I’m there, but rather the mental piece of letting go of all the lists and worrying about how the baby is doing at home. Once I can push past that, I’ve been really enjoying it and the aftereffects of the workout that last all day—I did something just for me, good for my body and I can feel it. Hoping to make some big changes to my routines, energy and strength and, of course, hoping my confidence and fit in clothes also improves. Baby steps. 

We celebrated Levi’s birthday on Saturday and it was just perfect. This year I decided to separate the family birthday celebration (on his actual birthday) from the kids party and I couldn’t be happier with the decision. Less people all at once (since both celebrations are happening at our house) and a chance for Levi to spend quality time with both family and friends without having to choose. We ordered sandwiches, got a delicious cake, opened presents—every one was in a good mood and ended the evening snuggled up watching a movie. The big exciting thing was Levi’s big gift, a big boy bike! Which he took too surprisingly well for a more physically cautious kid, I was so proud!

5 Things on My Mind

The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion — I just started this cozy historical fiction series and it’s really been just what I needed. Funny and filled with interesting characters, I’ve been flying through it. I highly recommend the audiobooks. It’s been a delightful listen and I already know I’ll be sad to be through with them.

Personalized Gift Tags — A while back I bought these adorable personalized gift tags with “a gift from Levi & Henry” on them to add to birthday presents as it seems we’ve entered our kid’s birthday party era. The quality is even better than expected and they add such a sweet touch to any gift. I will be buying more.

My Quince Cart — My shopping cart on Quince’s website has been growing. A mix of transitional fall pieces as well as some classics. Somehow I think I need both the cardigan version and the pull over version of this classic white cablekit sweater. This gingham blouse (and this one) feel like the perfect addition to my closet. They’ll pair well with jeans and work for the warmer days of fall and next spring and summer. I love the stripe on this button up. And unfortunately my feet have grown a half size since having two babies and so I’m going through my shoe closet and replacing as needed, these espadrille wedges will replace a pair I have and love that sadly I can no longer fit and these booties look so chic.

Swapping Paintings Around — Last week I found myself swapping out paintings on my walls for others I’ve collected and moving things around. It feels like the interior design version of “shopping your own closet”, the pieces felt fresh in their new locations and I feel some of the spaces are much better suited for the change. It was a nice reminder that we don’t necessarily always need “more”, you can simply change up the things you already have and still get that sense of something new.

Nancy Meyers Movie List — I came across and Instagram post a few weeks ago with a Nancy Meyers movie calendar and the order you should start watching them, one a week, so that they line up a little thematically for the seasons (i.e. You’ve Got Mail hits as fall starts, The Holiday in December). I thought it was so fun and we’ve gotten through the first handful. This is the order in case you’re interested in doing the same! The Parent Trap, Something’s Gotta Give, It’s Complicated, Father of the Bride 1 & 2, The Intern, Baby Boom, Private Benjamin, You’ve Got Mail, When Harry Met Sally, and The Holiday.