February doldrums & mini book reviews
I was just feeling ready to get in the spring spirit when a foot-and-a-half of snow blanketed our neighborhood over the weekend. February is rough, right? Sure, it’s staying light out a bit later in the evening, but it’s still cold and damp and decidedly winter. Here are a few things keeping out of the doldrums lately:
Harney & Sons Green Tea with Coconut - It has just the right amount of caffeine to wake me up in the morning without making me feel hyper and anxious, and the smooth flavor is lovely (it doesn’t actually taste like coconut to me, just less grassy).
Shopping thrift stores and antique malls - I’m on the lookout for a side table and a small bookshelf. Once a week, I browse my local shops in between writing or grading. Instant mood boost, even though I typically walk out empty-handed.
This new lotion- Dry winter skin is a THING.
Working at the library - At least twice a week, I pack my laptop and a snack and head to the library. I work for about three or four hours (focused, productive hours) and then head back home to walk Penny. This has made all the difference in my work-from-home routine.
Barre class every Friday morning - Movement has a huge impact on my mental health. I’m hoping to add a Tuesday or Thursday class to my routine soon, to hold me over until I can start hiking the nearby trails again.
This ASMR room:
Audiobook & Ebook Reviews:
Let It Shine by Alyssa Cole - No one packs plot and character into a novella like Alyssa Cole. I still think about Sofie and Ivan long after reading their story.
Slay by Brittney Morris- Fantastic on audio. A teen game-developer faces an online troll and learns about community and identity in the process.
Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid- So glad I listened to this much-buzzed about book. The narrator revealed subtle nuances with her performance, and I felt like I got to know the characters so well.
Currently Reading:
Chasing Cassandra by Lisa Kleypas - Super smart heroes are my catnip.
Don’t Overthink It by Anne Bogel - Practical advice shared with Anne’s token warmth and wit.
Emma by Jane Austen - Have you connected the dots yet? Sara and I are working on something special…
I hope you’re staying cozy, calm, and collected, wherever you are and whatever is going on for you this month!