Weekend Reading & Life Update 3.13.22

Someone commented on my Instagram recently about how they missed my weekend link round-ups, and I agree! It’s been a sporadic couple of years when it comes to me showing up on here, because it’s been a sporadic couple of years in general (as I’m sure you can more than relate). It’s hard to believe that this weekend marks the two-year anniversary of the pandemic shutdowns. On a personal level, it also marks the two-year anniversary of Chris and I getting laid-off. I’ve been looking back at the photos and videos on my phone from that time and it’s wild to me how much has changed. Hindsight is 20/20, of course, and I wish I could time travel and tell 2020 Julie (and 2020 Chris) that everything is going to be OK - amazing even. But since I can’t do that, I’m just trying to reflect and be thankful that we landed where we did.

Anyway, I miss blogging regularly and it’s something I want to make the time for again. Life lately has felt like a lot (again, I’m sure you can relate). It’s weird, there’s the hopefulness of spring arriving soon – the sun is getting warmer! The days are longer! - but it’s coupled with so much uncertainty and despair with everything happening in the world, Ukraine especially. I’m oversimplifying it, I know, but what a scary time we’re in.

How are you feeling? Holding up? We got some snow last night and yall, I think I’m over it! Spring has been peeking out here and there, and I have a warm weather trip planned for the end of the month and mentally, I’m just checked TF out of winter. I’m ready for some leaves on the trees and greenery. Anyway… here’s what I’ve been loving, reading, shopping, and making lately…

Reading… If you follow me on Instagram, you likely read that I just finished Station Eleven. I LOVED this book and yes, it was really different from the show, but both are so good. They’re like two different versions of the same story. Highly recommend! Last night I started The Nickel Boys. I’ve heard nothing but good things about this one.

Working out with… My Peloton! We got a Peloton in late January and not to be dramatic or anything… but I think it changed my life? I try to be as active as I can, but as you might imagine, winter in Maine can make working out outdoors difficult (and snowshoeing, snowboarding, winter running just isn’t enough to offet the impact of sitting so much for my job). I love this thing! The workouts are so fun and challenging and have been so good for my mental health.

Shopping for… My upcoming trip. I’m trying not to purchase a bunch of new things but could use a new pair of sandals (I like this scrunched pair, they seem like they’d work with both dresses and jeans - also J.Crew is having a pretty good sale so I think I’m going to snag them). I love this smiley bag for a carry-on tote but just purchased this one in November - maybe I’ll just add a fun vintage patch to it? Also loving this clear crossbody bag - so cute!

Cooking… Back in February, the days were really starting to bleed into one another – so I started cooking more! Chris is the literal chef in our house, so I don’t cook a lot. But I started using Half Baked Harvest’s recipes and they’ve been a hit - I love her search function and how many of the recipes are customizable. We both loved this golden rice recipe.

A few more good sales…

More links…

If you’ve been hearing about Florida’s deeply f-cked up “Don’t Say Gay” bill and want to know more - this is a good explainer.

17 interview red flags to be on the lookout for.

10 essential authors to read during Women’s History month

Wray’s pre-spring collection is so gorgeous - I have my eye on this top and this dress.

I’ve been pinning so many cute short haircuts lately - should I try bangs?!

In my Sephora bag: this new skincare-first clean deodorant (Love that there’s an unscented option!).

Etc., EtcJulie O'Boyleweekend reading, weekend links