It. Has. Been. A MONTH. The past 31 days have been a challenge, in more ways than one.
This middle of this month marked a year since COVID was declared a pandemic. And it hit really hard for me. It had been a full year since I was in the office with my co-workers, and 15 months since I had seen my family. On top of that, lockdown was extended in the Netherlands. And although we were lucky enough to travel last summer, seeing restrictions being lifted in other countries has been tough. March marked almost 6 months of closed restaurants, and 4+ months of closed stores. All those feelings of anxiety I’ve been keeping at bay came flooding through, and I found it hard to motivate to do the things I love. The gloomy weather in NL also didn’t help (I completely understand why seasonal depression is a real thing).
But March also marked the reopening of hair salons; my first trip outside of Amsterdam in 6 months; the possibility of visiting the United States in May; and over half a billion vaccines administered globally. Although we aren’t through it yet, the sun is slowing starting to shine through (literally & figuratively). And so at the end of this month, reflecting on what I loved in March was somewhat difficult. But also somewhat therapeutic. Each day is a rollercoaster – and some days are lower than others – but I can feel that gradual upward climb towards something better. And I hope you can too. 🙂
xx,
Mercedes
What I’m reading: this bestseller
I recently finished The Midnight Library. I usually avoid emotional stuff like the plague (I refused to watch The Notebook and I fast-forward through any commerical that might make me cry). But one of my best friends in the states recommended it, and the magical realism element drew me in. At it’s heart, it’s a book about regret and living life to it’s fullest. It’s an easy read with short chapters, and knowing what happens in each of the protagonist’s lives (especially the rockstar life) keeps you engaged. It’s really stuck with me, and I highly recommend reading it.
What I’m using: this natural deodorant
Okay, hear me out. I’ve always been a fan of the classic Secret stick antiperspirant, but I’ve been trying to use more natural beauty products lately. I tried a ton of different natural brands a few years ago, but nothing seemed to work. Unfortunately one of the things we don’t have in Europe is stick deodorant! So, I recently gave one last brand a chance – Agent Nateur. And I swear it actually works. I use the unisex (more of a woodsy scent – US link / EU link), and my friend tried the rose (US link / EU link). Both are lovely scents, it’s easy to apply, and the packaging is super chic.
US LINKS
EU LINKS
What I’m doing: simplifying
I focused a lot this quarter on additive things. Forming better habits; adding elements to my morning routine; more vitamins / water / vegetables / exercise. But upon reflecting, I do think that has contributed to the feelings of exhaustion I’ve had recently. A friend of mine from my first job shared something that resonated with me on Instagram – encouraging people to remove one thing from their life that prevents them from accomplishing their goals. It could be the habit of snoozing your alarm clock, the pressure of having to workout every day, getting to bed too late, or the daily monotony of cooking meals. So instead of trying to add more complexities to my life, I’m going to try to simplify by removing things from my routine.
What I’m wearing: wide leg jeans & baseball caps
The weather is FINALLY starting to change, and spring 2021 trends are actually wearable and comfortable. It took me a minute, but I finally found a good pair of wide leg jeans! And after ages of borrowing my husband’s baseball caps, I finally invested in a few of my own. I tried on almost a dozen pairs of denim to find the right fit – below are are a few of my favorites.
US LINKS
EU LINKS
What I’m listening to: this Spotify playlist
Being cooped up in the house has made me really nostalgic for travel – especially Greece. I recently found the best chill vibes playlist on Spotify, named (appropriately) Golden Hour. If you want to feel like you’re in a chic beach club sipping wine and watching the sunset in Mykonos, I definitely recommend having a listen.
Outfit details
Black baseball cap: US link / EU link
Wide leg jeans: US link / EU link
Quilted YSL clutch: US link / EU link
Similar blazer: US link // EU link
Similar D’Orsay block heels here & here
I feel you! March was a rough month. Here’s hoping for more sunshine (and maybe some travel) in the future.
Xx, Kelsey