I can't believe that August is already half done. It's been one hot summer in NYC. We've been enjoying museum and gallery visits. It's a good thing we bought a new air conditioner at the start of the season. It's been keeping us cool and best of all, it's actually quiet. After fully recovering from my oral surgery, I'm scheduled to get the other side done next week. I ended up moving it back and I'm not looking forward to it so wish me luck. What I am looking forward to is a jaunt to Baltimore next month. I'm still updating our home emergency kit and stockpiling our pantry and home essentials in anticipation of what's to come. If you haven't been paying attention to public health news, now might be a good time to start because the outlook is not good.
Reading...
This debut novel by Hwang Bo-Reum was a bestseller in South Korea for it's refreshing positivity and message of rejection of hypercapitalism. It tells the story of a woman who quits her job after suffering burnout and leaves her husband to open a small bookstore. Through her bookshop, she meets a menagerie of fellow book lovers and lost souls, who are the heart of this thoughtful and uplifting slice of life book that is ultimately about the comfort of community and connection. This feel good story is one I really needed in the wake of the ugliness of humanity nowadays.
Watching...
Miss Night and Day is a murder mystery and romance drama in one that centers around a body swapping premise. The female lead Lee Mi Jin (played alternately by Lee Jung Eun and Jung Eun Ji) is a jobseeker in her 20's who, through a series of unfortunate events, gains the ability to transform into a middle-aged woman during the day. Just started it so I can't really weigh in with much of an opinion yet though I will say there is a disconnect between the 2 actresses playing Mi Jin. Lee Jung Eun is a far superior performer. The thing I love about Asian dramas is their ability to seamlessly blend genres.
Want to watch....
We saw a thrilling action packed trailer for this movie and looked incredible. Turns out it's has been a cult favorite on the festival circuit including Cannes and Hong Kong's second-biggest domestic hit ever, earning $13.7 million in a city of just 7.2 million residents.Not surprising since it features an all star cast and has totally reinvigorated the martial arts film genre. This movie has hit theaters in North America but since we don't go to the movies anymore, we're hoping it will be available to stream soon. We really need to get back into HK movies.
Eating...
I'm always on the lookout for new recipes that are as healthy as they are easy to prep and these bowls which incorporate nutrient dense whole foods we already enjoy totally fit the bill. It's super quick and I like how the salad component can be easily customized. I like to add chickpeas and baby spinach for a protein and fiber boost and if we're extra hungry I bake some pita and add a side of baba ganoush or roast eggplant. This dish is currently on heavy rotation because it doesn't heat up the kitchen much to prep but I foresee it as a all season fave going forward.
Drinking...
I've been drinking this tea in the mornings on my intermittent fasting days and love it. The blend of fruity strawberry and fragrant vanilla is so smooth and lovely. I enjoy it with a shot of ChocZero Sugar Free White Chocolate Syrup, Collagen Peptides, and Nutpods Dairy Free Creamer.
Working out with...
Changed up my fitness routine to the 4-2-1 because I wanted to add more strength training in the mix. This incorporates 4 days of strength training, 2 days of cardio, and 1 day of mobility. I'm not trying to lose weight but to build strength and increase muscle mass. I think this will help with that. I've also been prioritizing protein in all my meals to further my goal. Of course I alternate the focus on different muscle groups to make sure I recover properly.
Loving..
This cult-favorite detox mask should definitely be added to my summer beauty favorites. Formulated with stabilized vitamin C, soy protein, and oxygenating cleansing agents it works to purify pores while lifting out dirt and toxins and locking in moisture. I use this mask twice a week as directed and it always leaves my face brighter, refreshed and revitalized. The aromatic sweet almond scent is heavenly as well and this is coming from someone who usually doesn't like fragrance in my skincare products.
Wearing..
I was relegated to sneakers for most of last summer since I was rehabbing my ankle so I'm living it up this year and wearing sandals again. I had always wanted to try this brand which is endorsed by the American Podiatric Medical Association to promote good foot health and this style appealed to me because it looks chic and comfortable. These have been in heavy rotation because they work with a range of outfits. They're as comfortable as sneakers and provide such stable support and cushioning. I purchased a dressier looking pair on sale that are just as good.
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6 comments
Wonderful Summer items
Keep shining dear one
The blessing
That keeps
Giving me hope
Abounding in love
The trust
Of a friend
I call
Rowena.
www.rsrue.blogspot.com
What perfect things for Summer! I've always wanted to try hummus.
Good luck with your surgery!
The novel about a girl experience burn out and quitting her job to open a bookstore sounds like something like something I would enjoy.
Lovely recommendations. The movie sounds cool.
Thank you for the heads up on the book by Hwang Bo-Reum, chingu! I read a lot of Japanese (translated) books but not Korean ones so I'm adding this to my TBR:) And keep us updated on whether you like Miss Night And Day!
PS Good luck on the surgery.
PPS Thanks for reminding me about Godzilla Minus One! I didn't know it's streaming on Netflix now so I'm watching it this week! :D
All the best with your surgery.
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