The Little List | March 31, 2023
I’m in the thick of the newborn phase with our sweet Frances and soaking in every single snuggle. She’s already proven to be so different from her big sister - she is definitely a cuddler and isn’t afraid to speak her mind if I try to set her down. I’m trying my best to make the most of it, remembering that this slow season won’t last forever and soon enough I’ll probably be chasing her around the house wishing I could just sit down with her safely tucked in my arms. That’s what I’ve loved about having my second child: I have so much more perspective this time around. Have there been difficult moments? Absolutely. But I know that it’s only a matter of time before these precious days will be distant memories.
Although I’m in a slower season, I’ve been seizing the opportunity to find inspiration in the most unsuspecting of places. Curtis gifted me a pair of AirPods last Christmas and I’ve gotten a lot of use from them. Whether I take Franny out for a walk or strap her into the car to encourage a nap, I’ve been popping one in my right ear to listen to a podcast or audiobook. I’ve also started reading fiction novels as a simple way to decompress (even if I still have a baby in my arms). But most importantly, I’ve been taking a lot of time to just sit in my thoughts and ponder. Pray. Get lost. It has been refreshing.
Although I’m not technically as productive as I’m used to during this season, I’m thankful for the opportunity to slow down and absorb what’s going on around me. Here are a few of the things that have been bringing me joy, making me think, or helping me grow over the past couple of weeks:
I custom ordered a Frances ring to add to my stack and it arrived the other week. Curtis gifted me a white gold ring with Mabel’s name on it shortly after we had her and I’ve always worn it stacked with my wedding band and engagement ring. It was only a matter of time before I added Franny and now every time I catch a glance at my hand, a huge smile sweeps across my face.
A few of the fiction reads I’ve read over the past few weeks include this one and this one. They’re so light and digestible, making them perfect for this season of my life. I also read this highly polarizing bestseller. When I asked for opinions on Instagram, I was surprised to learn that some people loved it and some people hated it. It was a winner for me!
The world is a harsh and polarized place these days and it always feels like everyone has such strong opinions about everything, but I was so inspired by this podcast episode about finding your own inner voice amidst it all. It’s easy to get swept up in how other people feel, but I think it’s so important to learn how to listen to your own instincts and trust your own gut sometimes.
A friend gave me a gift card for Old Navy and I’ve been saving it to use on some new clothes once my body settles into its new normal after having our second baby. I’m not sure if I’m quite there yet, but the warmer weather definitely has me itching to freshen up my closet after many months of wearing maternity pants and oversized sweaters. I love this relaxed look and feel inspired to try something like this too. I’ll share a few items I have my eye on down below.
My postpartum fingernails have been brutal. I just grabbed this at the drugstore today and am hoping a few applications will help strengthen them. Why are there so many strange and unexpected changes that come with the fourth trimester?
The newborn phase doesn’t allow much me time, but I’ve been enjoying cooking dinner for my family every night as my daily creative outlet. I’ve tried a few new weeknight recipes, like this one for Egg Roll Bowls, and managed to prepare this more involved recipe for Beef & Barley Soup one Saturday afternoon. Both were delicious and will definitely be added to our rotation.
Iced coffee has been sustaining my tired mom brain lately. I’ve been enjoying making it at home using Starbucks cold brew and whipping up my own cold foam with a hand frother. I also made a batch of this Maple Vanilla Coffee Syrup to add a touch of sweetness to my daily cup. I have to say that I really have managed to almost make it as good as the coffee shop. Watch my process in my latest IG reel here.
Basic T-Shirts in Sage, Grey, and Stripes // Bone Faux Leather Mules // Double Strap Sandals // Wide Leg Cargo Pants // White T-Shirt // High-Waisted Chino Pants // Quilted Jacket // Black Shirt Dress // Grey Knit Sweater // Vintage Long Sleeve Sweater // Straight Leg Jeans
That’s it for this week. Where have you been finding inspiration, joy, and contentment lately?
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