BEFORE WE RUSH BACK TO NORMAL…
Now that summer's here and things are opening up again, how are you feeling?
I'm excited about both the arrival of warm weather (I haven't gone a whole winter without seeing a beach in years!) and that things are opening up again. It feels like we're finally able to enjoy some semblance of normalcy again. Although everyone is rushing to buy new going-out tops, I'm not in full party mode just yet. But as I've started taking more trips into the city, it's brought me a lot of joy to wander around my old neighborhood again. Seeing friends who have returned to the city, the excitement of randomly bumping into familiar faces on the subway and in the streets, being able to hug people again—plus the fact that every restaurant still has outdoor dining is really *chef's kiss.* Who doesn't love a side of people watching with their pasta and rosé?
I’m feeling hopeful about the month of June and what’s to come, but there’s also a little sumthin’ sumthin’ in the air—Mercury is currently retrograde and will be until June 21.
Mercury retrograde, of course, isn’t something to be scared of, but more of a reminder for us to slow things down for these next few weeks—it asks us to relinquish a little control, and be more mindful of our words and how we communicate. Things inevitably get a little bumpy. I can always count on at least one guy from my past to pop up—seriously, it’s like clockwork. Work deals might fall through, but I do my best to stay in an abundance mindset. Whatever doesn’t work out, it’s okay because there will always be more good things that come my way.
So right now, even with a pretty full plate, I am trying to prioritize rest. I don’t want to feel stressed or bogged down by work and unnecessary obligations as we start summer. This month is about really listening to my body, not doing things just because I think I *should* do them. I’m always guided by my gut. When I make decisions that go against those feelings, trust me, I’ll later find myself frustrated as a result. So if I have to think too long about an opportunity, I know it’s best to pass.
I think this last year inspired so many of us to re-examine our relationship with work as well as the people around us. Who is draining our energy? Why are we running ourselves ragged? How can we work smarter and not harder? What or who are we doing this all for? I know we’ve all heard this a million times before, but I’m going to repeat it because maybe you need a reminder on this Monday morning: there is so much more to life than the work we do and our Monday to Friday output does not dictate our value.Instead, let's focus on how we are showing up for ourselves. How do we show up for the people we love? Are we prioritizing those who show us love and consideration? How often are we making time to do the things that make us feel good? Are we taking steps towards creating the life we want for ourselves? Let's not lose sight of our goals and priorities even as companies call people back to their desks and our inboxes begin to fill up with social obligations.
Is it just me or does the summer make you want to spend lots of money?
Over the last year I exercised a lot of restraint with shopping since there was no where to go. Of course there was a lot of home improvement happening over here—so that’s where most of my money went. But now that friends are planning summer getaways and more dinner invites are popping up I’m giving myself permission to shop for clothes once again. Here’s a peek into my summer wardrobe wishlist.
Khaite Lyon Sandals: I just bought these on sale last week, I’m having a major obsession with ankle wrap sandals right now.
Frame Le Baggy Jeans: Yes I’m more of a straight-leg jean girl, but this wide-leg palazzo style with a little baby tee is screaming my name.
Faithfull The Brand Nikoletta Dress: Does summer even really begin before you have that little floral dress that you’re going to wear every week? This brand is one of my go-to’s.
Victor Glemaud Crochet top: I might not be an island gyal this summer but I can still look the part.
Agolde ‘90s Pinch Waist Shorts: I’m loving the look of long, boyish shorts—I like to pair them with a slim-fit bodysuit and thin strappy sandals so it still feels a little sexy.
Tove Devon Dress: The perfect flirty LBD that I’ll keep forever—and it’s on sale!
Christopher Esber Cut Out Top: This Australian brand has been an exciting one to watch the last few years. Is it any surprise that I’d fall for a crystal quartz embellished top? I’ve never seen anything like it.
Brother Vellie’s Huaraches: To stay on theme with my ankle-wrap obsession I also just ordered these flats—they’re handmade in Michoacán, México and can’t wait to pair them with all my summer dresses.
Jade Swim Apex Bikini Top & Expose Bikini Bottom: A white-bikini is always my favorite swim look—so I’m trying the one-shoulder for a little update.
Mark Cross Woven Bag: Been waiting months to take this baby out! It’s my chicest beach bag yet.