a february slow living r.e.p.o.r.t.
Due to popular demand (and by demand I mean, just a good few of ya’ll lol) we’re back with another monthly report! The general consensus seems to agree that monthly over weekly reports are the way to go. Weekly reports can get a little intense, and some of these categories, if not all of them, should be enjoyed slowly and intentionally. Let’s see what I’m reporting to you this month.
R (reading)
I’m shocked at my reading success thus far. I’m not sure why, because I know I’m actively working on reading more, but seeing the results is still a pleasant surprise. Anyway, I read TWO books this month: I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy and Slade House by David Mitchell. Both were great in their own ways! If you’re planning on reading McCurdy’s memoir, I recommend doing so on audiobook, because she narrates (and does so VERY well). If you’re wondering about Slade House, the TL;DR is it’s spooky, genre-bending, fun, and less than 250 pages.
E (eating)
This month’s kick goes to chia pudding. I wonder if I’ll start to see a monthly trend of food fixations… stay tuned. But my go-to chia pudding bowl was the chia pudding base, chopped strawberries, maple almond granola, and a spoonful of chocolate hazelnut spread. It tastes like a chocolate covered strawberry - YUM.
P (playing)
I finished a game this month, too?! I am on a hobby-roll! I got back into the steam deck, mostly because Ian finally let me use it after a while, and I played chapter one of Poppy Playtime. Such a good game, incredibly done. It’s scary as heck, moderately challenging, eerie, and has a fascinating backstory. Think abandoned toy warehouse vibes.
O (obsessing)
I’ve been non-stop shopping (or browsing, rather, not actually purchasing) for bags. Like, travel bags, multi-use bags, commuting bags. Why? Partly because I need one for upcoming travel plans. Otherwise… I simply don’t know! I have become fixated on the options. So much so that Ian bought me the Calpak Luka Duffel for Valentine’s Day (and yes, I LOVE it).
R (recommending)
I’ve talked a lot about this throughout February, and it shows in this monthly report, so I’ll reiterate it one last time (actually, no promises): hobbies! Get back into an old favorite, start something new, explore creative ideas… I promise you it’s worthwhile. I feel so much more fulfilled in areas of my life I’ve neglected for so long because I prioritized work and responsibilities over FUN.
T (treating)
We’ve noticed in our monthly budget tracking meetings that takeout is our biggest expense month over month… and somehow we don’t break budget. I’m beginning to realize that groceries and takeout are close in costs nowadays. Which is frustrating. But! That also means it’s not necessarily going to make a massive difference if you decide to treat yourself to a takeout meal or fancy coffee. We’ve done a share of that in February. And the experience associated with those treat days are worth it.
I feel like these reports are almost therapeutic, don’t you? Give it a try if you have not already. It’s fun. It’s reflective. And we need to make sure we’re doing that on our slow living journeys to ensure we’re paying attention to the little things. Happy new month, ya’ll.