Making a Joy List
Turning the Page: The Monday Refresh
Happy Monday!
I feel particularly chipper on this Monday because it’s February Break and I have the whole week off from teaching. I don’t typically have this whole week free and it feels quite luxurious to have this week to reset after the endless days of January. The sun is out, it’s finally not in the negatives so I was able to take B for a long outdoor walk this morning, and I have no major plans this week. None!
Yesterday, I felt a little intimidated by that. Truthfully, I went into a bit of a spiral about not having anything to look forward or plans to see friends. But as the day unfolded, I slowly embraced a quiet week. This year has already felt so long and has had some hardship. So, a week all to myself to refresh? I couldn’t be luckier.
I decided to make a joy list. A few things I need to do (clean out my closet, list books on my Pango Books shop, tidy my office), a few things I want to do (read 4 books, try a workout class, finish a needlepoint project), and a few things I’d like to do (watch the Olympics as much as possible, write at a coffee shop, go see a show).
Nothing hard, nothing set in stone, nothing I HAVE to do. Just things I need, want, and would like to make time for.
It’s left me feeling less intimidated by the block of time and feeling more in control by the possibilities of the week. I’m feeling quite excited by it all.
Affirmation of the Week: Don’t forget that life happens outside your phone. Don’t compare yourself to others. Fill your time in a way that would make you envious to see.
Intention of the Week: Look at the tasks before me not as things I have to do, but things I get to do.
Goal of the Week: Make it a Mini Writing Retreat
I used to be a morning person. I’d hop out of bed early, make coffee and read, workout, write…all before 9am. Lately, I’ve been struggling with my mornings. I’d like to use this week to get them back and spend them writing without all the distractions of my regular life.
Items on My Get To Do List:
Fulfill my Joy List! That’s it!
I bought the French Blue suitcase. My current carry on is 12 years old and the wheels are busted. After our trip to New Orleans in October, I knew I needed to lay that beauty to rest. She went all over the UK and Europe with me on my semester abroad but I am SO excited about this one and the matching personal item bag I’ve had for two years. But I love the gingham that matches the lining too!
Blair Waldorf Standalone Sequel—In more iconic characters from my youth news, Cecily Von Ziegesar is writing a book about Blair! There’s not a lot of info about the content, but she will be in her 40’s and it’s set for publication summer 2027.
Spring Break PJ’s On Sale—I’ve raved about these pajamas before, but they really are so soft and cozy. This short set is perfect for an upcoming trip to warmer weather! I also love the Coffee Break print.
Speaking of Spring Break, my favorite packable straw hat is on sale for $39.
Have a great week and read something good!
Phoebe
A week off with no plans sounds heavenly! Enjoy!!!