Sometimes, I run across things that make me laugh, smile, or otherwise divert me from the stresses of real life. Things that are beautiful for beauty’s sake – or that make me giggle in a time of incredible stress and uncertainty.
We need more laughter and joy right now – so I hope you enjoy these things as much as I have.
Andrea Kollar’s artwork makes me so happy to look at it – the clean lines, the curves – the bodies – I love all of it (so much so, that I may request permission to have some of her drawings tattooed on me when social distancing is not a part of everyday life).
Something that has brought me considerable joy during these stressful days is watching penguins explore an aquarium. Thanks, Shedd Aquarium – you’ve done us all a huge service by sharing this.
I’m not ashamed to admit that I’ve been using quarantine as an excuse to do all sorts of ridiculous things in the kitchen – including making bread. This one, from Bon Appetit, is stupid-easy, and so delicious. Also (incase you’ve also gone off the baking deep-end) it freezes really well.
In other bread-related news: do you sourdough? I’m starting a starter (from scratch, thanks to King Arthur Flour) – and I need a name for it once it’s fully started. Here’s some top contenders so far: Bread Keselowski, Shannon Dough-erty, Sebastian Bread-ais, *yeah, I know there’s a car theme going on here….but help me! The starter needs a name!
Boudoir photography holds a special place in my heart – and I’m really feeling for all the photographers who are currently unable to make their magic with clients out of respect for social distancing (mandated or otherwise). Here’s a nifty solution that really made me giggle: Barbie Boudoir.
And last, but certainly not least: THIS from The Atlantic. What high heels can teach us about gendered truths. Trust me, its a good read.
What things are keeping you sane, nowadays?
Hello, Megan! Derriere de soie is one of many things I miss. The Downtown Mall is not the Downtown Mall without crowds of people, including those with lovely shops for us to pop our heads in.
As far as what’s keeping me sane, I’m one of the lucky ones; there’s lots of good stuff. A loving husband. Work that both of us can do from home. Two adorable, silly cats. Getting to talk to my son Gabriel nearly every day, and the fact that Gabriel is happily ensconced in a great apartment with his fiancee, a dear friend, and 2 cats of their own. Then of course, my connections to loved ones near and far via phone and social media. My writing and reading. The garden, and the glory of spring. Online services from my synagogue. Having a light semester, allowing me time to do lots of volunteer work. Sense of humor.
Even with all that, I still experience moments, sometimes hours, of anxiety, sadness, and fear, like everyone else.
Wishing you, your family, and all at Derriere de soie safe and healthy,
Cora S.
Sending love to you and yours, Cora. I’m glad to hear that you and family are safe and sound – and I hope you’re navigating the online teaching situation well! I’m pretty glad I’m not a student anymore – as I really struggled in my limited number of online classes. <3
Currently keeping me somewhat grounded and calm-ish:
Getting outside daily. Sometimes for a walk, sometimes for a bike ride, and sometimes both in one day.
Yoga. Small practices several times a day for a few minutes at a time. Mostly to stretch out my body from working at home, but also to take that small mental break.
A gratitude journal. I started this last fall when I had surgery and was home for several weeks, but continued it throughout my recovery over the winter. Now the practice is ingrained and it’s the last thing I do before I go to sleep at night.
Your gratitude journal is an awesome idea – I try to list things out loud when I feel grateful, but I can see that writing them down would be very helpful. Thank you for sharing this with us!