Monthly Favorites, vol. 1
April was so kind to me - in terms of discovering new things that bring me joy & feeling all that comes with the first full month of spring. I spent the first part of this year feeling a bit uninspired and starting new projects only to pause them. April brought the first big home project I’ve worked on this year (so excited to share it with you this month!!), a lot of friend time, and the start of a new wellness plan (bye bye gluten and dairy, mostly, at least for the short-term). Let’s talk about my favorites this month, from the best book I read, my new favorite snack food, and the latest hobby I can’t get enough of, we’re covering it all!
Books & Journaling:
Fiction: Wow, I felt like I was truly in the world of competitive ice dancing with this one, and I’m glad I could journey there through a fiction book and not a real life experience. The Favorites is fast-paced, addictive and honestly, pretty toxic. You follow the journey of Katarina and Heath from childhood to adulthood, and their obsession with each other and ice dancing. A love story that’s great for readers who don’t love traditional romance books.
Nonfiction: I’m halfway done with this book and can already tell it’s going to fall into the category of “books that can change your life”. It is slightly “woo woo” as a disclaimer. In Personal Power Through Awareness, you will learn how to sense energy in yourself and others so you can clear any unwanted energy and stay more balanced and centered. You’ll learn about listening to and following your intuition, connecting with your higher self, and changing your inner dialogue. There are exercises and affirmations sprinkled throughout the book so I’m reading it slowly so I can take it all in and spend time doing all of the practices.
Journaling: It was time for a repurchase of my favorite Five Minute Journal in April. It’s been a staple in my morning routine the last two years. It makes such a difference when you start your day with gratitude and affirmations.
Eats and Drinks:
Lime plantain chips: The perfect crunchy, salty snack with clean ingredients! I love the original Barnana flavor too.
Loaded water: Was this all over your social media too? I perfected my recipe in April! It’s 2 raspberry lime Spindrifts, 1 bottle of coconut water, 1 teaspoon of Celtic salt, and a splash of sweet cream. I use these pretty glass 40 oz tumblers for mine!
Crafts and Hobbies:
DIY Seashell Hair Clips: The perfect summer accessory! This craft takes less than two hours and it’s great to do with your friends for a summer friend date. You can use my tutorial here if you’re interested in how I made them and what I used!
Coloring: I reignited my love of coloring this month and found the cutest new coloring books. I’m really excited about the one that teaches you how to draw patterns. These markers are my go to! I always feel reconnected to my inner child & like having an activity that keeps me off of my phone in the evenings. Find all of my coloring books & markers here!
Beauty:
Glow Recipe Blush Drops: My go-to for “no makeup” makeup days when I’m heading to pilates or running errands. These blush drops so easy to apply, lightweight and are actually a tinted skincare product!
Colorescience Face Shield Flex SPF 50: This is magic!! It’s an SPF that comes out of the bottle white, then adapts to match your skin tone. It has great coverage, and I’m currently using it in place of foundation.
Wellness:
Organic, cold-pressed roll-on castor oil: The roller makes this less messy than traditional bottles and it’s perfect for travel! I like to use mine on my brows and lashes and on my stomach with a castor oil pack. I also love that the roller is rose quartz!
Watching:
I’m Tim: The documentary about the life of Avicci was such a beautiful tribute. I’m in awe of his creativity. It was a really emotional watch as it dealt with mental health and the struggle of fame. It really sparked ideas for me about the challenge of creating art and what happens when your art starts is also a business that’s monetized.
Listening to:
I’m so excited for Addison’s new album to release in June! Headphones On was definitely my most listened to song in April.
I’m also on a big Olivia Dean and Clairo kick. Here’s two of my favorites.
Home:
Hotel Lobby Candle: This London scent is so relaxing with notes of earl grey tea, lavender, wisteria, vanilla milk, and honey. I love burning it in the evenings while reading a book to feel extra cozy.
Libra Lighter: It has sparkles and astrology, need I say more? I got this astrology lighter as an affordable gift for a friend and had to grab one for myself to keep by my candles.
Wearing:
Julia Szendrei Necklaces: Colorful necklaces are going to be a summer staple for me. I love these smaller crystal ones because they’re so easy to layer and each crystal has its own meaning. I got lavender and white opal for bringing peace, calmness and balance. I found my necklaces at one of my favorite Laguna Beach shops “Experience Divine Vibes”, but you can also shop them online!
Free People Ruched Top: I’m still in my pilates princess era and these tops are a staple! They’re lightweight and so comfortable.
And that’s all for April! I’m excited to start sharing more personal ramblings and my current interests and finds on Substack. I would love if you followed along with me!