What are your plans this weekend? Freddie and I are having pizza and gaming tonight, and I’m SO looking forward to seeing the boys when they come home on Sunday. I’ve missed them dearly and can’t wait to hug them tight. Wishing you a great weekend, and here are some interesting links from across the internet…
We’re providing a 20% discount on Big Salad subscriptions today! Just click here, we’d be thrilled to have you. 🙂
My top choice for jean style.
Geek alert: My dad and I found this Connections puzzle particularly enjoyable.
I Am a Midwest Girl from a Movie and/or TV Show Thrilled to Be Here in the Big City. It made me chuckle.
“I swam in the Seine.” The pictures are so amazing!
A Chipwich ice cream cake.
Liam Neeson and Pamela Anderson are the ‘it’ couple we didn’t realize we needed.
Difficult things are meant to be challenging. Really appreciated this.
With summer fruits, the big question is: galette or crisp?
I would adore wearing my hair like this throughout fall and winter.
Celine Song — known for Past Lives — is penning a sequel to My Best Friend’s Wedding. Will you be tuning in?
I laughed so much tuning into Amy Poehler’s podcast episode featuring Abbi Jacobson and Ilana Glazer.
Would you consider trying ‘Japanese walking’? (NYTimes gift link)
Additionally, three reader comments:
Jorie shares on what cute things do your kids love doing: “My kids are five, three, and one. Earlier this summer, we were visiting relatives in the Midwest, and everyone kept saying, ‘I can’t believe you’re starting kindergarten!’ to my five-year-old and ‘I can’t believe you’re walking!’ to my one-year-old. After the third family interaction, my middle child, my three-year-old daughter, started chiming in with, ‘And I can’t BELIEVE I’m THREE!’ Sometimes, you need to hype yourself up!”
Emily comments on what cute things do your kids love doing: “I realized I was changed forever when a really cool fire truck passed by, and I was alone in the car exclaiming, ‘Wow, look at that one go!’ My twenties self couldn’t comprehend noticing such things, let alone forming a strong liking for specific trucks. In the words of Elphaba and Glinda, ‘I have been changed for good.’”
J. mentions how do you mother yourself: “I mother myself by recalling the parenting advice I absorbed right here on Cup of Jo a decade ago: ‘just add water!’
– take a lengthy shower
– run your wrists under cold water for the length of a complete song (this is also a fantastic tip if a panic attack feels imminent and can be done in private!)
– sip a glass of water slowly
– break a sweat with an intense workout
– take a walk as near as possible to a body of water
– slide an ice cube over the back of your neck, collarbone, forearms, etc.
– allow yourself to cry
‘Just add water’ ranks alongside ‘babies be babies’ – the hymns and recitations and inside jokes of this beautiful, sparkling, warm, welcoming, loving community that supports one another so joyfully every day.”
(Photos by Freddie.)
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**Embrace a Relaxing Weekend Experience**
Weekends serve as a valuable time to decompress, rejuvenate, and ready yourself for the upcoming week. Yet, they can often become just as overwhelming as weekdays if not organized properly. To facilitate a peaceful weekend experience, consider these suggestions:
**1. Organize in Advance:**
Start by organizing your weekend beforehand. This doesn’t entail scheduling every second but rather designating time for relaxation and activities. Prioritize necessary tasks and set aside time for enjoyment. This equilibrium keeps the weekend from feeling hurried or unproductive.
**2. Unplug from Work:**
One of the most effective methods to relish a peaceful weekend is to disconnect from work. Establish boundaries by avoiding work emails or phone calls. Notify colleagues of your unavailability and resist the temptation to involve yourself in work-related tasks. This separation permits you to fully engage in personal time.
**3. Participate in Relaxing Activities:**
Incorporate activities that foster relaxation and happiness. Whether it’s delving into a book, enjoying a lengthy bath, or practicing yoga, opt for activities that help you unwind. Mindfulness techniques like meditation or deep-breathing exercises can also diminish stress and enhance overall wellness.
**4. Enjoy the Outdoors:**
Nature possesses a soothing influence on the mind and body. Spend time outside by taking a stroll, hiking, or merely soaking in a picnic at the park. Fresh air and natural settings can greatly reduce stress levels and boost your mood.
**5. Reconnect with Loved Ones:**
Weekends present the perfect opportunity to reconnect with family and friends. Organize a casual gathering, movie night, or shared meal. Social interactions can offer emotional support and reinforce relationships, leading to a greater sense of happiness and relaxation.
**6. Restrict Screen Usage:**
Excessive screen time can heighten stress and anxiety. Limit electronic device usage and indulge in activities that don’t involve screens. This can help you stay present and savor the moment.
**7. Engage in a Hobby:**
Participating in a hobby can effectively relieve stress. Whether it’s painting, gardening, or playing a musical instrument, hobbies offer a creative outlet and a sense of achievement.
**8. Prioritize Self-Care:**
Allocate time for self-care routines that nurture your body and spirit. This could involve exercising, a skincare regimen, or simply ensuring adequate sleep. Looking after yourself is crucial for maintaining a stress-free lifestyle.
**9. Reflect and Rejuvenate:**
Utilize the weekend to reflect on the past week and set goals for the one to come. Journaling can be a useful tool for processing your thoughts and feelings. This practice may offer clarity and a sense of control over your life.
**10. Embrace Flexibility:**
Lastly, be open to flexibility in your weekend plans. Occasionally, spontaneous activities can bring unexpected joy and relaxation. Be willing to modify plans if something more enticing comes up.
By implementing these strategies, you can turn your weekends into a period of relaxation and revitalization. A stress-free weekend not only enhances your quality of life but also equips you to approach the week ahead with renewed vigor and focus.
