Anyone who knows me knows I love to stay busy. I simply can’t sit still and honestly don’t want to. I just love to be out and about, traveling, working out, grabbing my morning coffee and simply just getting things done. So nobody loves staying in less than I do. That said, I have found a lot of amazing things to keep my lil spirit happy as I spend more time in the comfort of my own home and I thought I’d share them today for all the other busy bodies out there:
MY FAVORITE EFFORTLESS SWEATER
A couple weeks ago, I probably shared more than you care to know about my go to lounge pieces, but I didn’t include my favorite Everlane sweater. It’s so effortless and warm enough to keep a chill away but also breathes a bit too. I throw it over dresses, jeans and even pair it with my joggers. I love it so much I had to buy two. And just in case you prefer a bit thicker of a sweater, I’m including three of my all time favorites below as well.
1. Anine Bing Jolie Sweater | 2. Lock Roll Neck Sweater | 3. Seattle Turtleneck
REFINED LINENS
This is probably just a me thing, but I love to make my meals an experience. Because dining out isn’t an option right now, I’m personally making more of an effort to enjoy a beautifully styled meal a few times a week. Because of this, refined linens are a must for me. I have a LOT of tablecloths, but for those of you who are just starting your textile collection, I’d start with a super refined linen table cloth and napkins like the ones below. They pair beautifully with a variety of table looks.
MASTERCLASS
I love to learn but rarely have the time to pick up a new skill set. Masterclass is one of those platforms that are worth every penny and more. I’ve breezed through the sessions from Kelly Wearstler, Anna Wintour, Sarah Blakley and Malcolm Gladwell and I feel like I have so much more to learn. I just love this app and truly think there’s something for everyone to learn.
A COUPLE GO-TO TOPS FOR ALL MY ZOOM MEETINGS
Making an impression during this time is challenging. I’m one of those people that has an awkwardness about them that always lands a bit better in person. For this reason, I have found that looking polished during Zoom meetings is always a good idea. Here are a couple of my go-to tops for just that:
- Fitted Shirt in Stretch Silk | 2. Pink Jane Floral Print Voile Blouse | 3. Rib Trim Raglan Turtleneck
MEDITATION PRACTICE
Meditation is a regular habit for me, but I took it to another level this year by carving out time every day to mediate at least once. Prior to COVID, I attended live guided meditation classes which were worth their weight in gold, but when the gyms closed so did my classes. To compensate, I signed up for the Miracle Membership with Gabby Bernstein. To forewarn you, she is very spiritual, so if you prefer your meditation to be science driven rather than spirit based, I’d suggest another teacher. But, if you’re like me and use meditation as way to connect with yourself, I highly recommend this program. For $19.99 a month, you get access to a new topic each month as well as access to a variety of her previous released meditations. If you’re not ready to spend money on this just yet, she also has a lot of free meditations to test out by signing up for her newsletter.
HAND LOTION
While I always felt like I did a decent job of washing my hands, like everyone else, I’ve upped my hand washing game quite a bit. And because of that, my hands are ddrrryyyyy…I personally have been combatting this by using lots of hand cream and spending a little more on some luxe hand soaps. Here are a few of my favorites:
Resurrection Aromatique Hand Balm | 2. Barr-Co Original Scent Hand Cream | 3. Vitamin E Nourishing Hand Treatment from Jo Malone
COMFY JEANS
I’m always a denim girl, but I’ve been more grateful than ever for my jeans since working from home has made it possible to live in them. Here are my top three favorite pairs that I cycle through regularly.
The Tomcat-Confession from Mother Denim | 2. High Rise Ankle Crop Jean from Re/Done (these are Vintage White but I love them in any color) | 3. Levi’s Wedgie Icon
AN INTENTIONAL WORK FROM HOME SPACE
Like many people, I spent the first couple months working from home at a makeshift desk which was a “desk” that is more of a decorative prop than a functional workspace. I finally gave in, brought my desk, chair and other accessories home and it’s been a game changer. I’m more comfortable, productive and overall just feel more organized. I’m going to share some different design directions for your own work from home space in the upcoming days, but in the meantime, here are the basic pieces I have (and enjoy) in my home.
1. Anglepoise Mini Accent Lamp | 2. Go-Cart White Rolling Desk | 3. Soho Ribbed Management Office Chair
A GREAT POT OF TEA
I’m a tea over coffee person, myself, but even your not, there’s few things as relaxing and indulgent as an amazing cup of tea. I, of course, have to have it in a beautiful pot and make it easy on myself by using a super efficient tea kettle. I specifically love this one from Kitchenaid. And, I’m obsessed with this sweet little pot from Soho Home. It’s just perfect for a cup of tea in my backyard.
I typically start my day with Earl Grey but have more recently been loving the Saffron Sencha tea and Black Chai Teas from Tahmina. Not only because it’s delicious but it also makes a huge impact by support Afghan farmers and women as it works towards rebuilding the economy in Afghanistan. If you decide to try it for yourself, use the code BETH10 for a 10% discount on their teas.
Tea Kettle from KitchenAid | Burleigh Hibiscus Teapot
THE PERFECT BEDSIDE LIGHTING
I’ve never been much of a TV watcher, so reading is my go to activity for winding down. I realized pretty quickly that the lighting I use for an occasional 10 minutes of reading here and there wasn’t going to cut it for the amount of reading I’ve been indulging in. I personally bought the sweet Gantri table lamp below but also am truly loving these sconces as well. 
A VARIETY OF HATS FOR MY NEW OUTDOOR HOBBIES
I’m a hat girl, through and through. Over quarantine, I’ve been indulging in more outdoor activities like hiking, gardening and simple walks in my neighborhood with my pup. Because I’m based in Southern California, that means I’m getting a lot more sun than normal, which also means I needed to up my hat game. Here are three options I discovered that I don’t know how I ever lived without:
PELOTON
Okay, this is one is an investment but I have to say it’s worth every penny. Fitness is a huge part of who I am and when the gyms closed down I was beyond lost. It was a lengthy decision but I haven’t regretted investing in my Peloton for a moment. I love the classes and the bike. The instructors are true professionals and know how to get in my head in a good way. I love being able to work out whether it’s super late at night or early in the morning and overall love how hard it works me out.
BATH ACCOUTREMENTS
I love a bath and have been able to enjoy them even more during this time. To elevate the experience, I go all out with beautiful bath soaks, a tray to hold my perfectly styled cocktail or cup of tea, amazing candle and so on.
What’s your secret? How are you staying occupied, comfortable and relaxed? I’d love to hear all your tips!
