I definitely had to look up the date for the title of this post. I knew it was early April, but had kind of forgotten the specifics. (But I knew it was Friday, so…WIN!)
Here’s to the end of another week of weirdness, right? I hope you’re hanging in there, and not just hanging in, but also finding lots of moments of joy and gratitude amidst all this. I ALSO hope you’re cutting yourself a TON of slack. (I’m writing this for myself, too, because I can always use that reminder.)
You’re doing great. (Really! You are!)
I also loved this New York Times piece about how right now is NOT the time to worry about not being “productive” enough. Not motivated to do all the home or self improvement projects you thought you’d be all over during this time? That’s normal!
Again: you’re doing great. 🙂
Okay, ready to talk favorites? Let’s do this! (I’m going to type fast in the hopes I can squeeze in a quick Pure Barre workout after this while Maggie is napping! Wouldn’t that be a Friday win??)
- I’ve shared a bit about my brand new gua sha journey on Instagram recently, and I have to say I think I’m hooked. I didn’t know too much about this (and still am very much a novice), but the idea of using gua sha on the face is to help drain lymphatic fluid, thereby addressing puffiness and fine lines. This is the tutorial video I used — a fun session coordinated by my friend and fellow Beautycounter consultant, Lauren — to learn about how to use the stone properly if you want to check it out! I definitely notice a difference WHILE I’m using the stone. It’s crazy! I got my stone from Primally Pure, and if you get one from there, too, be sure to use the code CURIOUSER to save 10% on your order. (PSA: I also love their dry shampoo.) Also, you’ll need a facial oil if you decide to try gua sha (to keep it from pulling your skin as you glide it across your face and neck). Beautycounter offers three great options on that front — including one for oily or acne-prone skin. (Trust me: you’ll love it!) My favorite is the Brightening Facial Oil. Oh, and if you’re a brand new Beautycounter customer, this month you can save 20% on your order. Yay!
- Maggie and I baked Oh She Glow’s almond butter chocolate chip cookies yesterday, and they were incredible! I highly recommend this recipe. (Next up on the baking agenda for us: this banana bread recipe. I can’t wait!) Along those lines…turns out stress baking is a thing, although I could have told you that years ago! It’s always been a go-to for me in times when everything else feels out of my control or overwhelming.
- One last thing today (well, two really): We’ve been enjoying Storyline Online, which features children’s books read by actors. (A particular favorite of mine: Carla’s Sandwich, read by the amazing Allison Janney.) Also book and celebrity related: Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is doing a multi-week series on YouTube with videos airing each Thursday at 7 p.m. EST featuring Dolly reading a book! Last night was the first episode (The Little Engine That Could), and Maggie loved it!