Weekend Reading #60

What happens when I slow down, what I did (and didn't do) this week, recent purchases, discount codes, and a sneak peek at my podcast.

Hi! We’re somehow a week into September, and it’s been a beautiful week. I wouldn’t say I’m thriving, but I am working hard to stay focused on the good.

Let’s Start With the Wins

I made dinner almost every night, went on one walk (better than zero walks), and started re-recording my podcast. I’m glad I did a first round, sat on it, got some feedback, and gave it another go. I also scheduled my first real podcast guest! We’re recording next week.

I also stayed on top of my supplements and multivitamins.

Another positive? My favorite jeans now come in a darker wash (I ordered the cultivate). Size down a full size! I also broke out my green leather bag that now comes in suede.

I got my fall planters started, too. I went with white and pink mums last year, but decided to embrace white this year.

Here’s What Didn’t Go So Well

I won’t call thees fails, but I went to bed closer to 11/11:30 and have learned that 10:30 is definitely optimal for me. I also only got one substack post up and lost a bunch of subscribers for “slowing down,” which felt pretty discouraging. I also only went on one walk and felt really tired all week.

Jack is wearing these pants with this shirt.

And Weekend Plans

My kids have been struggling a little with back to school, so I’m planning special solo dates with the girls this weekend. Each got to choose what we’re doing, so I’m taking Kate to Chipotle for a car picnic and then to get a treat, and Margot and I are getting a pedicure together. Jack and I are going to meet my friend and her son for a walk, too.

Wore this top and these pants at the sign of the first cool day.

PTSD and Surgery

I think Jack’s upcoming surgery is taking a bigger toll than I thought it would. I’m feeling really anxious and worrying about every aspect. Risk of bleeding, how to watch him while he sleeps, will he take his meds at night, will it be miserable, will he be in pain? I was talking to my friend Jackie about this on our walk yesterday and she said she wasn’t at all worried about me taking care of him because i’m one of the most intuitive people she knows. I was like “yeah, that’s because I’m highly neurotic.” And we can’t forget about all the PTSD.

I am determined to get walks in Monday and Tuesday since surgery is Wednesday. And I’m going to commit to taking these. Work will probably slow down, so I’d like to try to show up here.

Slowing Down

Sometimes, we have to slow down or shift our focus. And we just have to open our eyes and realize we can only do so much. I’m one person attempting to run my IG, blog, substack, multiple affiliates (ShopMy, LTK and Amazon), and partnerships. I do have a manager who handles all brand communication, but still have what feels like a lot on my plate.

Sure, I don’t have a commute, and I get to be the ones to get my kids after school. I know the gifts that come with what I do, and in some ways, it’s a curse. I am not the best at turning it off, and I feel so discouraged when things dip. It’s a lot of pressure to try to keep up. I lost 50 paid subscribers just by slowing down, or maybe I didn’t resonate? Who knows? I have to learn to get that go.

It was a short week, so Monday looked like the pool, bracelet and bag charm making, and I wouldn’t trade that for anything.

Links and Recent Purchases

Mark your calendars! On 9/8/25 Origins Checks & Balances Frothy Face Wash will be 50% off (Only $14.50. Regularly $29).

Use MOSS15 for 15% off my wrinkle reduction device.

Use DANIELLE for 20% off your first 2 Blue Apron orders. These meals were life-changing this week! Do yourself a favor and get the enchiladas.

If you’ve been wanting to try daily greens but are worried about flavor, this pineapple lime is a great option.

I bought these suede flats, but they’re almost sold out. These are almost identical and more affordable, too.

The Pod

And here’s my trailer episode (no background music, no editing, but we’re all friends here). Eek! It’s not much but open to any and all feedback. I’d love to know what you think.