“Have you ever thought about implementing a Monday update?” a reader named Molly mentioned last week. “It could serve as a mini extension to the ‘Have a Great Weekend’ posts. I’m always eager to hear how the party turned out, which outfit you opted for, how the play/movie was, etc. It would be a fun way to kick off the week.”
What a kind note! I enjoy hearing about others’ weekends as well. So, let’s catch up a bit, if that suits you. How was your weekend? Did you have a Thanksgiving celebration? Catch any good shows or read any interesting books? I’ll share first…
My dad came to see us (the boys were visiting Alex’s family), and it felt truly special to have some one-on-one time, which has been rare since the boys arrived. For the Thanksgiving meal, we drove to spend time with Freddie’s relatives.
We tackled the New Yorker crossword puzzle along the way…
…and I brought a bag filled with goodies — a fun puzzle for Freddie’s sister, fancy hand soap for his mom, Italian wine for his dad, and the best book I read this year for Freddie. Additionally, I wrapped the gifts in John Derian wrapping paper, which comes with beautiful gift tags!
The evening was delightful — here, Freddie and I were taking a short walk before we all gathered for dinner — and we also played foosball, had fun with the kids, and enjoyed the most delicious creamy green beans. I always find it fascinating to join another family for Thanksgiving, as everyone has such unique recipes and traditions. Side note: Why don’t we eat pumpkin pie all year long??
My aunts — Janey and Lulu — sent pictures of their celebration in England, too. Aren’t they adorable? Would you like to see a beauty uniform from Janey? (Lulu’s was really enjoyable to create:)
Once back home, my dad and I watched some Frasier reruns, as is customary. My mom often says Daphne reminds her of her own mother, and since her mother passed away when I was two, I love watching the show and imagining what she might have been like.
My dad also balanced my car tires (had no idea that was a thing) and helped me refresh our living room photo wall. Every couple of years, I try to replace photos of the boys at their current ages, so it doesn’t end up serving as a shrine to their toddler years!
One night, we invited friends over for a casual snacking gathering, and my friend’s son showcased his magic tricks. How adorable are the grandparents?
Whenever we host a crowd, I think of Catherine Newman’s home tour. “Our entryway is chaotic,” she remarks. “When I spotted this poster at a friend’s place, it made me realize, Oh, this mess is an asset, not a liability.”
Speaking of Catherine Newman, she gifted her daughter an L.L. Bean bag with those monogrammed initials “just to make her chuckle.” It made me laugh, too!
Finally, after my dad returned to Michigan, I had a few hours to myself, so I stopped by the John Derian shop and admired the pastries at From Lucie. Life has had some ups and downs lately, so this weekend felt rejuvenating. Now I cannot WAIT for the boys to come back — it always feels wonderful to have the little ones back in the nest!!!
Now, please share, if you wish, about your weekend — the highs, the lows, anything you’d like to tell me. Much love, as always. xoxo
P.S. 10 readers share joyful moments, and the best movie I’ve seen in a long time.
Reflecting on Your Weekend Activities: A Path to Personal Growth and Fulfillment
Weekends are often regarded as a time to relax, unwind, and step away from the pressures of the workweek. Nonetheless, they also offer a valuable chance for reflection and personal advancement. By dedicating time to think about your weekend activities, you can uncover insights into your habits, preferences, and overall wellness, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.
Understanding the Significance of Reflection
Reflection serves as a potent instrument for self-betterment. It allows you to pause and contemplate your actions, thoughts, and feelings, providing clarity and comprehension. By reflecting on your weekend activities, you can discern what brings you joy, what depletes your energy, and what aligns with your values and aspirations.
Steps to Contemplate Your Weekend Activities
1. **Dedicate Time for Reflection**: Allocate a specific time each weekend for reflection. This might be Sunday evening or Monday morning. The key is to remain consistent, ensuring you engage in this practice regularly.
2. **Examine Your Activities**: Think about what you did over the weekend. Did you spend time with family and friends, engage in hobbies, or just relax? Create a list of your activities to gain a clearer view of how you spent your time.
3. **Evaluate Your Emotions**: Reflect on how each activity affected your feelings. Did it invigorate you or leave you feeling drained? Understanding your emotional responses can help pinpoint what truly matters to you.
4. **Consider Your Goals**: Think about how your weekend activities correspond with your long-term goals. Are you devoting time to things that foster your personal or professional development? If not, consider how you might adjust your activities to better align with your objectives.
5. **Spot Trends**: Look for trends in your weekend activities. Do you habitually participate in activities that bring you joy, or do you find yourself engaged in behaviors that don’t serve you well? Recognizing trends can help you make more deliberate choices in the future.
6. **Plan for Enhancement**: Use your reflections to strategize for weekends to come. Pinpoint activities you wish to continue, those you want to minimize, and new experiences you’re eager to explore. Setting intentions for your weekends can pave the way for more enjoyable and meaningful experiences.
Benefits of Reflecting on Weekend Activities
1. **Greater Self-Awareness**: Reflection boosts self-awareness, helping you understand your preferences, strengths, and areas needing growth.
2. **Enhanced Time Management**: By evaluating how you spend your weekends, you can make more mindful decisions regarding time allocation, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling existence.
3. **Higher Satisfaction**: Reflecting on your activities can help you concentrate on what genuinely brings you joy, leading to increased satisfaction and happiness.
4. **Personal Development**: Regular reflection fosters continuous learning and growth, as you become more attuned to your needs and goals.
5. **Improved Work-Life Balance**: By recognizing activities that replenish your energy, you can establish a better equilibrium between work and leisure, reducing stress and enhancing overall wellness.
In summary, reflecting on your weekend activities is a straightforward yet impactful habit that can lead to considerable personal growth and fulfillment. By taking time to assess your actions and feelings, you can make more intentional decisions that resonate with your values and objectives, ultimately resulting in a more satisfying and balanced life.
