Hello, Thursday. I usually share these posts on Friday, but I figured you might need a little something to get you through to the weekend.It seems like everyone I’ve talked to was hit by the mid-week slump…hard, and I can’t say I was a stranger to that feeling. I woke up Monday morning still riding out the high of setting a new PR in the half marathon (!!) and then got some family news that left me really heartbroken. I think we’re making great strides when it comes to talking about mental health, but there’s still so much more work to be done in terms of destigmatizing. I eased back into my workouts at solidcore on Tuesday night (I use the term eased very lightly as it remains one of the most challenging classes I’ve ever taken!) and my abs are still sore! And my inner thighs? Holy shit. It’s funny, because I don’t leave the class dripping in sweat like some of the others I take, and sometimes I think my brain tricks me into thinking more sweat = better workout, but that’s not always the case!

I’ve also been working on this thing where I listen to my body and don’t beat myself when I take a rest day or choose an extra hour of sleep over a sweat session. Groundbreaking, right? But I’m reallyyyyy itching to get back to it! I told myself I had no excuse not to sign up for a Flywheel class right after work today as the event I’m heading to with Diptyque doesn’t start until 7 and that leaves me with plenty of time!

Last night I met Cody at Pacific Standard Time (a super cute spot in River North – planning to go back for brunch soon!) to toast to Meiomi’s new sparkling wine (which is delicious, by the way) and it was just the thing I needed.

Anywho, onto this week’s links. Here’s a look at everything I loved – enjoy!

Song of the week: She Needed Me – T-Pain (…I know. Just trust me on this one, k?). Turn it up and listen as you browse this week’s links 🙂

AROUND THE WEB/WORLD:

• My baby sister Harper is so insanely talented. You know those cookies that are super cute, but just don’t taste that great/are more for looks? She’s not about that. Honestly, one of the best cookies I’ve ever had. If you’re in Topeka (and the surrounding area!) she takes orders and hosts classes! I have all the FOMO and really wish I could take one with her!
• *Hits the pre-order button* I can’t wait to get my hands on this. I’ve read Jen Sincero’s You Are A Badass and You Are a Badass at Making Money and both are great.
• …while we’re at it, I’m also ordering this 2019 calendar! Looks like it would be such a positive start to each day, no?
• Growing up, we always had chocolate advent calendars and I looked forward to popping open the little cardboard door to reveal a new treat each day. I’m dying over this calendar from Diptyque! So expensive though lol. Santa, if you’re reading this, I’ve been really, really good this year 😉 .  If you’re curious what’s inside, Harper’s Bazaar has the key to the treasures.
• Someone reached out on Instagram and asked if I have any recs for a good strapless bra and as someone who has small boob privilege, I hated to report back that I don’t actually own one! I’ve really learned to embrace this part of my body over the past few years and subscribe to the less is more mantra in terms of undergarments. I always feel comfortable ordering from Shopbop because they do free shipping and returns. So if something doesn’t work out, it’s not the end of the world! Also, I’ve seen several people recommend these nippies!
• Holiday event season is fast approaching and that led to me fantasizing about formal wear and I fell in love with this floor-length dress. Clavicle is my cleavage 😉 .
• And how gorgeous are these crystal earrings from Rebecca Minkoff?
• I’m really excited about Motto, a new micro boutique hotel chain by Hilton. They’re focusing on fostering a community vibe and prioritizing affordability, efficiency, and flexibility (check, check, and CHECK!). As someone who really only uses a hotel for sleeping purposes while traveling, I couldn’t love this concept more. Where to first, Maya? We’ve both had our hearts set on a certain European city and are hoping to make it happen this spring.
• Meghan’s list of things she’s looking forward to sparked me to create one of my own while journaling this week. It’s a good practice all the time, but especially when things in your world get turned upside down!
• If you’re wondering where that incredible pastry spread up above is from, allow me to introduce you to Lost Larson, a quaint little bakery up in Andersonville!

SHOP THE POST:

Tomorrow night I’m taking a Total Body class at Shred and then indulging in an infrared sauna session at Cryobar before a lazy night in. Hoping to squeeze in a class Saturday morning depending how I feel and then we’re celebrating my friend Amanda’s birthday (and Halloween!)  with a party bus/brewery tour! So excited.

What are you up to the rest of the week/this weekend? I hope it’s the best! I’ll be sharing in real-time over on Instagram stories and Twitter, so be sure to follow along there!