Show Yourself Some Love
Valentine’s Day can be difficult regardless if you’re single or in a relationship. When I was in eighth grade I received my first Valentine’s Day gift and while I was so happy to receive the chocolate rose left in my locker, I was overwhelmed and nervous because it was the first time a boy gave me a present. As more and more Valentine’s Days came around I had been broken up with or disappointed because my boyfriend never made the dinner reservation on time. I didn’t understand why I always let myself set such high expectations only to be disappointed when the day didn’t turn out like it did in the movies. (I blame my addiction to romcoms….)
As I grew up from being a selfish teenager to a slightly wiser adult, I realized that self care can give me more than a Hollywood-esque evening ever could. Since these past couple of years have been quite the struggle, this Valentine’s Day I wanted to focus on giving myself some love. After all… how can I show others love if I can’t show it to myself?
Let her eat cake!
Forget the candies and chocolate covered strawberries… give me cake! The keyword for this year is balance. I have been working hard on finding balance in my life, including eating foods that nourish my body and my mind while not obsessing over intense diets. Valentine’s Day is about allowing ourselves to indulge in everything that we love and yummy cakes make me very happy :)
This cake was lovingly made by Marguerite, the owner of MiddleSisterBakes located in Atkinson, New Hampshire.
If you also love delicious baked goods, check her out at www.middlesisterbakes.com and her Instagram!
Oh is this for moi?
“Treat Yo Self!” - Tom and Donna, Parks and Rec
Why wait for someone to buy you a present when you can give yourself one? On a beautiful day you deserve to get yourself some beautiful things! I picked up this embroidery kit and a new print for my home office from my favorite shop, Nahcotta, in downtown Portsmouth, NH.
Smile at the sunshine :)
Luckily this weekend was a warm and sunny day… perfect to sit at the beach and watch surfing and doggies running around. I find that February and March are the worst months for me. By now I am craving some outdoor time with my face towards the sun and my bare feet dug in the ground. Because of the salty air in my lungs I feel recharged and energized. Even if it’s a little chilly, I hope you take some time for a walk outside to admire the world around us.
A little bubbly
For those who know me well know that I am not much of a drinker. So my version of a little bubbly on Valentine’s Day is… a relaxing bubble bath. This past year my husband and I became homeowners and with that came the best soaking tub in the universe! Baths are a time for me to light some candles and calm my mind. I like to enjoy my baths while listening to music, watching a show, or reading a good book.
I love you!
I am so grateful for the people in my life; my beautiful husband, loving family, and amazing friends. These are people who allow me to be myself and love me through my all of my highs and lows. A huge part of my self care is to take the time to recognize and show gratitude to those who mean everything to me. To all of you, I hope you have a wonderful Valentine’s Day where you feel special and loved. Thank you for being everything you are, for you have made me who I am!