October was quite a month. Here in the Netherlands, we saw a huge increase in COVID cases (higher than our first wave) and we were put into a partial lockdown. During the first quarantine in the spring, my husband & I had just moved to the Netherlands. With no friends yet and our family thousands of miles away, we felt isolated and struggled a bit with depression. So I spent a lot of time reflecting on how I could make this lockdown more positive than the last.
I’m trying to limit social media and screens before bed (finally following my own advice), and decided to share something personal on my blog. I’m also focusing on old hobbies that I haven’t been able to enjoy with working full-time. I used to be an avid reader as a teenager (I volunteered at the public library – ultimate nerd), and I finally have the headspace to want to read again.
The new lockdown also meant that Halloween (my favorite holiday!) was a lot more low-key that I expected. But having a few friends this time around has helped me focus on living in the moment. We were able to celebrate at home with two friends and some “redrum” sangria inspired by The Shining. I also tried out some pretty cool Dia de los Muertos makeup!
This lockdown will extend over Thanksgiving and also has travel restrictions, so we’re coming to terms with the fact that we won’t be able to see our families in the US this year. It’s heartbreaking, but I know that we’ll get through it. I plan to make the most of the holidays, so be on the lookout for some guides to celebrating Thanksgiving & Christmas at home coming soon!
xx,
Mercedes
What I’m reading: Rebecca
One of my best friends in the states recommended her favorite book, Rebecca (US link // EU link). I started reading it a couple of weeks ago and adore it. It’s beautifully written and has a Great Gatsby vibe because of the time period & setting, but is more of a mystery/thriller. It was also recently turned into a movie on Netflix – definitely planning to watch after I finish the book!
What I’m wearing: nail art
I’m not sure if this technically counts as wearing… but I’ve been loving nail art lately. It’s a good form of self care, especially since I’m not spending much money on new clothes lately. If you’re in Amsterdam, Maud at Lakwerk is so sweet and great at designs. Also be on the lookout next week for my first giveaway! I can’t announce it yet, but it’s one of my favorite accessories and I’m so excited to partner with the designer. 🙂
What I’m watching: a LOT of Netflix
Even though I’m trying to be more productive during this lockdown, I’m still watching a lot of Netflix. 🙂 I just started three new shows.
- The Vampire Diaries: my friend has been trying to get me to watch it for years, and I have to say… it’s total trash and I love it. It’s like the best combination of PLL and Charmed, and I can’t decide yet if I’m Team Damon or Team Stefan.
- Deadly Class: I’ve only watched a couple of episodes, but it’s a super dark YA show. It’s set in the 1980s and based on a comic book, so it has that Stranger Things nostalgia factor – and it has an epic soundtrack.
- The Queen’s Gambit: definitely more cerebral – the cinematography is gorgeous and the acting is outstanding so far.
What I’m using: Aurelia
I’ve been really into the skincare brand Aurelia recently. Their products are probiotic, cruelty free, vegetarian, and bio-organic. The miracle cream cleanser and overnight recovery mask (also available on Cult Beauty) have a relaxing lavender/rosemary scent that is perfect at bedtime, and are super moisturizing for the dry fall air. They’re safe for pregnancy, and they also have a children’s line (I love the bath oil).
What I’m doing: to-go tea dates
While restaurants & bars are closed until December, most are still offering takeout – and that goes for cafes too! (Heads up don’t call them “coffee shops” here in NL… those sell more than caffiene 🙂 ) Getting out of the house is important during lockdowns, so I’m grateful we can still meet up in groups of two for drinks and morning walks. It’s an opportunity to enjoy Amsterdam while the weather is still decent, and if you’re looking for a good spot my favorite is Pluk. They have really cute seasonal cups, hot chocolates, and fresh mint tea to-go.
What I’m eating: apple spice breakfast muffins
If you follow me on Instagram, you’ve probably seen me bake my favorite apple spice breakfast muffins. They’re inspired by a Sakara breakfast recipe (a plant-based food delivery service in the US).
Since Sakara doesn’t deliver in the EU, I ordered their cookbook (US link // EU link) during the first lockdown. They have tons of delicious healthy meals and products (click here for $50 off), but I’ve always been obsessed with their breakfasts. I’ve made some tweaks and come up with these delicious muffins. They have plant protein from lentils, are perfect for prepping and freezing, and are vegan-optional. If apples aren’t your thing, I also included a few changes you can do to make them pumpkin spice muffins. If you sign up for blog updates from me below, you’ll be taken to a page to download the recipe!
And that’s it for October! Hope you had a wonderful month, and let me know if you make these muffins by tagging me on Instagram!
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