With the new year frenzy at work, cooking at home, and staying active over the holidays, I haven’t had as much time for blogging. So I decided to switch my monthly trend post to a seasonal post! This still gives me an opportunity to reflect, but also allows me to share realtime trends and updates. Let me know what you think of this new format in the comments!
I didn’t travel this month, so I spent a lot of time enjoying Amsterdam and making memories with friends. My very first friend here is moving back to the US, which has been a hard adjustment. But I know it’s something I need to become accustomed to, given the impermanence of expat life. Aside from that, we have so much amazing travel in the works this year – from weddings we can’t wait to celebrate, to fantastic trips with friends & family – that I’m almost overwhelmed! It’s not usually in my nature to say no, but I know this year there are things we will have to miss – which is also a difficult realization.
But, one of my 2022 goals is to practice moderation vs. my usual “all or nothing” mentality. With that in mind, I feel more on top of work and more balanced overall with my lifestyle choices. Living in the moment is always hard, but so far it’s been a success. 🙂 And with restaurants open again and a rare day of sunshine today… this season feels more full of promise than usual. Read on to find out what I’ve been loving this season, and all of the winter 2022 trends!
xx,
Mercedes
What I’m reading: this bestseller
Two good friends recommended Where the Crawdads Sing, and it was my favorite book this season. It started slow but once I got into it, it was enthralling and I couldn’t put it down. If you were a fan of my other favorites this year (The 7 Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, and How to Stop Time), then you’ll love this book.
What I’m eating: Yotam Ottolenghi recipes
I was originally introduced to recipes from this chef by a few friends at dinner parties last year, and with the lockdown I had to find new cooking inspiration. Our training gym gifted my husband & I a copy of Ottolenghi Simple, which has a ton of easy recipes that are perfect for weeknights. We started off making a few side dishes, and they were delicious! Our favorites so far have been the black garlic rice and the almond caper asparagus.
What I’m wearing: graphic sweatshirts
It’s hard to stay comfortable AND look chic in cold weather. But the latest winter 2022 trend – vintage-inspired sweatshirts – accomplishes exactly that. To keep the look pulled together, try one with leather leggings and combat boots, or jeans and pointed flats.
What I’m using: this cult hairbrush
My Christmas gift to myself was this hairbrush (EU link), which has been a cult favorite for years. It’s pricey so I was reluctant to buy it at first, but it’s absolutely worth the hype. The boar bristles really help to get oils from your scalp to the ends of your hair, and I’ve already noticed an improvement in just a month. I recently updated my winter skincare and haircare posts, so check those out for the latest products I’m loving this season.
What I’m listening to: summer playlists
It’s my favorite time of year again – time to plan summer travel! I have a trip back to Mykonos planned with some of my best friends in June. So to keep me sane in the drab Dutch weather, I’ve been listening to playlists from my favorite beach club to stay motivated.
What I’m watching: Apple+
I recently got a subscription to Apple+ and have been impressed with the high quality of their shows. Here are some of my latest favorites:
- MythicQuest: hilarious if you like It’s Always Sunny
- The Servant: creepy riveting thriller by M. Night Shyamalan
- Ted Lasso: heartwarming (one of my all time favorite shows!)
I also just finished Loki on Disney+, which is a really interesting divergence from the typical Marvel movies. I couldn’t stop watching!
What I’m excited for: February travel
Although I enjoyed staying put in January, I can’t wait for the travel I have planned in February. I’ll be going on a last trip with my friend before she moves (and it’s also my first trip with my friend Josemar!) to Barcelona. Then later in February, I’ll be seeing my Texas family for the first time in 9 months! After that, I’m headed to Tulum to celebrate a bachelorette for one of my most supportive friends – who also happens to be one of the most fun, so I know it’s going to be a blast. I picked up this neon pink dress that I can’t wait to wear – and truth be told, I’m also just looking forward to seeing the sun! 😀
Stay tuned for my next seasonal update, and follow along with my February travels on Instagram!
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