So many books to read, so little time; so many accounts to follow, so overwhelming; so many holiday activities, so exhausted. This Round Up has my top book picks, my fave useful accounts to follow, and what I’m doing to stay in tune with this season of rest, giving and thanks.
READ
Once Upon a Time: The Captivating Life of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy
I honestly did not know much about Carolyn, but always found her intriguing. The tragic ending of her life, marring a Kennedy and her style icon status is what’s known best, but this book describes her kind character, her beloved friendships, the upset of dealing with unwanted attention and scrutiny, her talent in the fashion world, and the potential bright future she could have had. Author, Elizabeth Beller, delivered a well-rounded description of who Carolyn was to her family, husband, friends and even strangers. She was someone unforgettable.
This was so eye opening, tragic and hopeful. Gathered real life stories from female nurses, the unsung heroes, of the Vietnam War, turned into a book I could not put down. Author, Kristin Hannah, focused on a young nurse who heads to Vietnam against her parent’s wishes and details her tumultuous years serving, the relationships that change her life and the harsh realizations she faces in the aftermath of this life altering war. I never thought I’d read a book with this story line, but I am so glad I did. A MUST read!
FOLLOW
@sammicohentalks gets into detail on tech, culture, the brands you know, love or haven’t heard from in a while. I ALWAYS learn in-depth and not widely known information, marketing insights, and what companies and brands are doing right and wrong. If you love how things work, the behind the scenes drama (good or bad), and want to be in the know and current, I highly encourage you to give her a follow.
On my journey to sustained wellness, I’ve been digging around to proactively learn about hormones and menopause. @drmaryclaire will have you thinking differently about perimenopause and menopause, and how you can “be prepared” for and educated on whats to come. It doesn’t have to be as awful as it was for our grandmothers and mothers. What I found so astounding is how easily doctors today still dismiss concerns and symptoms related to this huge year’s long hormonal shift in women. I’ve shared this podcast episode (The Mel Robbins Podcast with Dr. Mary Claire) on menopause, with all my friends because its so empowering. Knowledge is power!
DO
Tis the season to spend time with family, make plans with friends, create new traditions and do ALL merry and feel good activities. Buuuuut, why not take a load off, push the to-do lists to the side, say no to the holiday stuff that doesn’t feel right, and know that it’s ok to be home, to lay low, and still have all of the holiday cheer you are wanting. Here is what I am dreaming up.
- Determined to make homemade cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning … a new tradition in the works.
- Volunteer at a community toy drive (or donate your pre-loved books through school or local library), helping others during this season of giving is what its all about.
- Take a roadtrip (or a day trip to a yummy spot you’ve been wanting to try) during the long Winter break. No plans at the moment, but I’d love to make this a tradition of sorts … getting out of the house is a nice way to break up the at-home routine.
- Check in with your nearest and dearest, even if schedules don’t align before the year ends, pick up the phone and catch up (something I need to improve upon), let them know how much you love them.
