Between the Seams

February Edition

Hello friends and welcome to Between the Seams,
where creativity, routine, and self-care intersect. This newsletter is where I share the inspiration, musings, and insights that keep me inspired. Here, you’ll find a blend of book recommendations, rituals, vision boards, playlists, and even some sustainable fashion inspo.

35mm Film photo from my birthday last year, 2/22/23

Routines and Rituals:

Last month, I shared my morning routine and the step-by-step process of how I wake up and come into my body. While I stuck to this routine, January was a whirlwind. I had big plans, and I threw the idea of easing into the year out the window. I was so inspired and excited, that I might’ve overdone it. I made two new patterns—the Chore Coat and the House Block. I restocked my website three times and recorded a podcast (coming soon!). I paid off my truck and credit card debt, which feels amazing. However, my body hurts and is more inflamed than usual. By the time I go to bed, my legs and joints ache, and I find myself turning on the heating pad before crawling into bed every night and eating a CBD gummy.

To help with inflammation, I’ve been trying "grounding," where I stand barefoot on the cold ground while I let the dogs out in the morning. I’ve read it helps reduce inflammation, lower stress, and boost circulation, which I’m hoping will help, especially since I have Raynaud’s. Everything’s connected.

I downloaded the "Stardust" app to track my cycle, and it's actually been pretty validating. Whenever I wonder, “Why am I so irritated right now?” I can check the app, and it usually matches my mood :)

I also started taking fish oil and evening primrose oil to see if that makes a difference. I’ve been drinking turmeric tea, I’ve bought compression socks and even treated myself to a Reiki massage. I joined the gym with Cory, which has a saltwater pool and sauna. I love swimming and not having my phone on me for over an hour. I went 6 times last month and want to make it twice a week. I also love the stair stepper and cycling.

I know it’ll take time to see the benefits of the gym and the new supplements, but right now, I don’t feel much different. It’s frustrating to do everything I think is “right” and still be in pain. This is what I am trying, so take what you want and do what’s right for you!

In the past I’ve tried acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage therapy, and I don’t smoke or drink anymore. I do yoga daily and eat well. I’ve read The Body Keeps the Score, and at this point, I think the pain comes from stress. Mentally, I don’t always feel tense, but my body definitely does. I just want to feel okay. I know the world is scary and stressful, it’s hard not to be consumed with bad news and trying to make a living. I want to associate it all to the physical pain I’m experiencing, but I really can’t say.

Two days ago, I had what I like to call a “shut down” day. I knocked a few things off my to-do list, but then emotionally, I just hit a wall and shut the fuck down. I wrapped myself in a cozy quilt, threw on my sweats, and watched ten episodes of Schitt’s Creek back-to-back. I put my phone on do not disturb and completely checked out.

I felt a wave of guilt, like I should be doing more—especially with a restock coming up. But honestly, we all need a shut down day, and it's okay to do nothing. Sometimes, it’s necessary.

Since February is my birthday month, I’m planning to take a full week off from work—no emails, no writing, no sewing, and definitely no planning.

I’ve also been trying to stay off Instagram. I post updates and then delete the app, only using it to promote what I’ve been working on.

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I got my nails done last week and texted Cory that I’d be leaving my phone in the car. I brought my book to keep me company, but towards the end, I had intrusive thoughts about the dogs—what if something happened, and Cory couldn’t get ahold of me? It’s such a terrible feeling trying to be in the moment, but also distracted by the "what ifs."

While getting my toes painted baby pink (which, in hindsight, might have been a bad choice… since it blends into my skin tone), I noticed something special. I was sitting between two women, both reading, not looking at their phones. The woman on my right was reading The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah, one of my favorite books. The woman on my left was holding her book tightly that I couldn’t see the title, but we were all so engrossed. Even though we didn’t speak, I felt a sense of community. It was such a refreshing feeling, to be in a space where people weren’t glued to their phones <3

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Vision Board :

I’ve noticed something about my energy after scrolling aimlessly on Instagram: I often feel depleted, comparing myself, or like I’m not doing enough. But after spending time on Pinterest? I feel inspired. I feel excited. Suddenly, I want to braid my hair, knit a scarf, or thrift material for a new quilt idea.

Whenever I take breaks from social media, I find myself spending more time on Pinterest, and I’m not mad about it. If you don’t already have a Pinterest account, I highly recommend it. Yes they have ads, but if you know an app that doesn't, comment below please.

What I’ve been listening to :

Ora Cogan Radio

What’s on my nightstand :

Currently Reading:

• Black Swans by Eve Babitz

Suggested Reads (via Instagram):
After finishing All Fours by Miranda July, I asked for book recommendations in my stories, and here are the most suggested titles:

• All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker

• The God of the Woods by Liz Moore

• You Too Can Have a Body Like Mine by Alexandra Kleeman

• I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman

• Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver

I plan on getting a library card this month and checking some of these out.

Feeling cute:

not trying to INFLUENCE but… I will share my favorite things lately.

• Compression socks made from recycled material

• $5.99 tulips from Trader Joes

• M.A.C. Stack Mascara it’s the only one I use

• Imogene + Willie Catherine jeans with a custom inseam of 29” because I am 5’3”, I have worn them everyday since purchasing

• My jumbo safety pin from my friend Dani, of Sage Silver

What I’m working on :

I recorded a podcast that is in the process of being edited. I am hoping to launch it later this month!

With the House Block Pattern I made, I plan to teach a small three day class where I show folks how to construct a wall hanging with said blocks and pattern. It will be hosted on zoom, where you can ask questions live. You will have access to the recording forever. Once recorded, I will debating selling the recorded classes! TBA. Once you take this class, you will be able to make a full quilt if you so choose! <3

Donation station:

I adopted Gravy through Underdog Rescue, so this is one of my favorite rescues to donate to.

Do what you can with what you have <3

I hope this newsletter brings you inspiration and joy in what can be a dark, and scary time. Not just in winter, but in the world. Take care of each other and remember it’s okay to SHUT DOWN. Okay bye.