Weekend Reading #23
Life lately, what I watched, ate, and listened to, and an update on Buddy
I’m sitting by the tree with my sweet Buddy. We had a really nice Thanksgiving at home. He ate all of my turkey and deserved every bite.
I am trying to come to terms with the reality of knowing what’s coming soon and am learning that it won’t ever feel right, even when it’s time. I’ve been through hard things, but this hits so differently since he was my family when I didn’t have family here. When I didn’t have anyone to spend Christmas with. And there’s just something about your first dog as an adult, but believe me when I tell you that he’s an exceptionally sweet dog. One of my best friends (from high school) called me crying about Buddy. He’s a really special boy, and I’m so glad we have this time together right now.
Here’s my attempt at a subject change.
Our family room feels so cozy with our tree and stockings. These sconces really completed the mantel – it feels so good in here, and I’ve spent most work days on the couch with Buddy. And there it is. Right now, it’s all about Buddy snuggles and connecting with my people and my family since I know I need that.
I took the girls to my friend’s house for a playdate and we were able to chat for a few hours, although it was mostly about Christmas presents for the kids. It was still really nice to have that time together, and I loved seeing the girls together.
She also shared that she felt this pressure to buy something because everything’s on sale. I understand from the perspective of wanting to save on Christmas gifts for the kids, but beyond that, please don’t buy anything you don’t really want or need.
If you do need outfits, you can see my shopbop picks here, and everything else in this post. From my favorite candles and all the rugs in our home to outfits and my vacuum, it’s all here and here.
What I did for my mental health: I did not work out this week because of no school, holidays, and a hair appointment downtown (excuses, excuses) but I did have therapy, had girlfriends over on 2 separate nights, and was able to connect with a friend at her house, too.
What I watched: Shrinking and Christmas movies. I also saw Wicked and Moana 2. Wicked is fine for kids who don’t scare easily and can sit through an almost 3 hour movie. Margot loved it, but the lava monster in Moana never scared her and she would freak out if I tried to fast forward that scene (even at age 3) so she’s just different. Both girls loved Moana. I thought it was cute but it didn’t compare to the first one which I loved.
Podcast episode of the week: I loved and needed this one.
What we ate: I made my “fancy” baked mac and cheese this week and cinnamon roll casserole for breakfast on Thanksgiving.
Something good: Our family is going on Vacation over Christmas break which I think will be good for all of us.
A hard thing: The fact that we don’t have much time left with Buddy and coming up with a plan around that. It’s been even more emotional than I could have anticipated which says a lot because he might be my soul mate and I think I was just in denial about it ever happening. I won’t be ready and it won’t feel ok. Really trying not to torture myself with negative thoughts and just enjoy him right now. The thoughts come, but most of the time, I’m just so happy he’s feeling good enough and here with me.
What I bought: I shared that here. I also found our vintage needlepoint stockings on eBay and bought two so we’d have one for my sister when she comes to visit (hopefully she won’t see this and will be surprised) and one for our au pair since I couldn’t find one last year. I won’t monogram either one, so we’ll just have them for guests or future au pairs, and I can’t even get started on how this is our au pair’s last Christmas with us. Too many feelings today.
Here’s a little bit more about where we’re at with Buddy. This is deeply personal and just a lot. I think about it and cry every time I’m in the car so I’m doing great. I’m going to open this one up to my paid subscribers since, as I’ve shared before, you’re all a smaller, more tight-knit (and supportive) community. I really do love it here.