What are your plans for the weekend? We’re heading to England to see our relatives. I’m looking forward to chilly sea waves and endless cups of tea. Hope yours is wonderful, and here are some interesting links from around the internet…
Such a stunning London house. That cloud wallpaper is amazing!
Initially, The Invite’s trailer didn’t catch my eye, but glowing reviews keep coming in. Have you watched it?
The simplest dress for warm nights. Also fond of this option.
Summer pasta with zucchini and corn. (NYTimes gift link)
Brown sneakers are trending this fall. I’d enjoy wearing these and these for long strolls. (Plus, take advantage of their big sale.)
How stunning are Vogue’s Old-Masters-style photos of Daisy Edgar-Jones?
An impactful essay about one woman’s adoption experience.
This fall, Bowen Yang will appear in Oh, Mary! According to director Sam Pinkleton: “I think Bowen’s Mary will be particularly intense. Bowen’s Mary might be a real viper. She will be very strong.” (NYMag)
The only moisturizer lately that prevents my skin from feeling dry.
Contemporary stained glass.
Three stay-at-home moms share stories about returning to work. “There are countless ways to create a rewarding life.” (Big Salad)
Hahahahaha.
Plus, three reader comments:
Sasha from Montana on my top packing tip says: “My ultimate packing approach? Embracing that I am indeed the SAME SASHA, everywhere I travel. I won’t suddenly become glamorous with makeup, jewelry, chic shoes, and a stylish sightseeing outfit. Nor will I dress up for a fancy dinner date we won’t attend. Like at home, we’ll go hiking. We’ll grab tacos from a food truck. We’ll retire early. Indeed, I can just wear what I wear at home.”
C.K. on what’s the best (non-physical) compliment you’ve ever gotten? “Two delightful kids visited for dinner and eagerly commented on the candle scent in the bathroom. They loved it so much that we gifted them the candle. Then they said, sincerely, ‘If your personality were a candle, it would be this candle.’ I have never forgotten that.”
Emma on four fun things remarks: “During my first year at college, there was a girl in my dance group I was gradually knowing, yet it felt like we hadn’t solidified our friendship. Amid a hectic show weekend, I turned to her in the dressing room and asked, ‘Do you want to be best friends?’ And she replied ‘Yes!’ The older girls were amazed, saying, ‘That’s the cutest thing ever! Why don’t we do that anymore?’ She remains my best friend.”
(Photo by Filip Mishevski/Unsplash.)
**Strategies for a Calm Weekend**
Weekends offer a valuable chance to relax, rejuvenate, and savor life away from work obligations. Yet, without effective planning, they can swiftly turn as busy as the weekdays. Here are some strategies to help you enjoy a peaceful weekend:
1. **Advance Planning**: While spontaneity holds its charm, having a general plan can ensure your weekend is productive. Consider listing activities you’d like to do, whether it’s discovering a new park, experimenting with a new recipe, or merely unwinding at home.
2. **Detachment from Work**: Consciously decide to step away from work emails and calls. Establish boundaries by informing colleagues of your weekend inaccessibility and resist the temptation to check work-related messages.
3. **Relaxation Priority**: Allocate time for activities that bring relaxation. This might involve book reading, meditating, enjoying a warm bath, or yoga practice. Focusing on relaxation can ease stress and enhance well-being.
4. **Physical Activity Engagement**: Exercise is an excellent stress reducer. Whether it’s a brisk walk, cycling, or a workout session, physical movement can uplift mood and energy.
5. **Quality Time with Loved Ones**: Utilize the weekend to bond with family and friends. Organize a picnic, a game night, or savor a meal together. Quality time with dear ones can heighten happiness and the sense of belonging.
6. **Pursuing New Hobbies**: Weekends are perfect for delving into new interests or hobbies. Be it painting, gardening, or learning a musical instrument, engaging in creative pursuits can be gratifying and stress-relieving.
7. **Sufficient Rest**: Ensure enough sleep during the weekend. While the lure of late nights is present, maintaining a regular sleep schedule can make you feel more refreshed.
8. **Mindfulness Practice**: Integrate mindfulness techniques into your weekend routine. This could be meditating, deep breathing exercises, or simply appreciating the present. Mindfulness can soothe anxiety and boost mental clarity.
9. **Screen Time Limitation**: Aim to cut down screen exposure, whether it’s TV, social media, or video gaming. Instead, focus on activities promoting relaxation and self-improvement.
10. **Reflection and Intent Setting**: Allocate moments to reflect on the past week and set plans for the coming one. This practice aids in feeling grounded and prepared for the week ahead.
By adopting these strategies, you can craft a weekend that is not only enjoyable but also refreshing, laying a positive foundation for the upcoming week.
