August Reflections -

“The first week of August hangs at the very top of the summer, the top of the live-long year, like the highest seat of a Ferris wheel when it pauses in its turning.” – Natalie Babbitt

I love the idea of “August” as the top of the ferris wheel that is the year. The month feels suspended in mid air, it’s hot, it’s full on in the sun before we plunge into cooler months. For me, this month felt challenging – like I was suspended in mid air, not moving forward. But, it was also a month of getting honest with myself, listening to my body and learning to show up for myself in ways I haven’t before.

Something I’m trying to get more intentional about is setting time aside to think about the last month, while preparing for the new one. My hope is that taking some time to regularly check in with myself and set intentions for the coming days will help me to feel grounded and on track.

Checking In

My only two goals for August were to:

Maintain a strong fitness base for my December marathon
PUBLISH MY BLOG

One of those two things definitely got done (you’re reading it)! To finally get my little corner of the internet up and running again feels surreal. After years of procrastination and self-doubt, I just decided to start living with heart and leaning in to what I really want to be doing. THIS.

August was a bit of a wash for me in terms of marathon training. (boo injury) However, I got to explore other methods of training – namely swimming. I don’t love it, it’s not running, but I love that it’s just me and my thoughts while I’m in the water. I’d like to think this little setback is building up my mental toughness, something I’ll definitely need for 26.2 miles.

Things I Loved

Perhaps my most controversial purchase to date, the horseshoe jeans from Citizens of Humanity are my new favorites. They make me feel cool and edgy. I sized down!
This is a weird one. We’ve battled all kinds of flying creatures in our house this summer and this fly trap is the only thing that has worked!
I’ve been hunting for the best mascara to keep lashes curled and the MakeWaves lengthening and volumizing mascara from Tower 28 is something I wear every single day.

Things I Read

Brianna Weist is my queen and all of her work pushes me to think differently about my situation. Her newest, “The Pivot Year,” is an absolute must read.
I’m currently on book two of this three book series: “A Black and Dod Mystery.” Two unlikely amateur sleuths solve murders in 1920 England. The prose isn’t brilliant, but it’s fun! Start with The Magic Chair Murder.