It’s almost the end of April, but I kind of feel like it never stopped being March. I’m not sure what day it is anymore (apparently it’s Monday?) and I’m over it…

This is more of a monthly recap, but I am sure I’m not alone in not knowing what day or month it is, and completely having lost track of time. In addition to a disorienting sense of time, I’ve been feeling the strangest mix of emotions. Simultaneously, I am experiencing contradicting feelings: helplessness and competence, concern and blissful ignorance, solidarity and discord, anxiety, yet extreme relaxation. In short, I have no idea what I’m feeling anymore. All I know is that I’m very strict about #stayathome because I’m really sick of this virus and wanna kick its ass, and I have zero tolerance for those that are less inclined to feel this way.

In addition to the awful news globally, I’ve found out some unfortunate news work-wise (massive layoffs,), and my downstairs neighbor died. Of what, we don’t know, but he was definitely in the higher risk demographic for COVID-19. Needless to say, it’s been a heavy few weeks for me, especially seeing what I see in Spain, and seeing people back in the US call this a hoax. I hope everyone is getting through this without it impacting their loved ones or getting hurt economically, but I realize the sad truth is that almost all of us will be severely impacted by the pandemic.

In the meantime, here are some light and positive things that have made my time at home in Quaratine, much more enjoyable…

Although I’ve found some stupid zombie game on my phone to absolutely get addicted to and take up 80% of my free time, I’ve also been trying to read more books and hopefully achieve my goal of 20 books in 2020. I’ve recently finished the Crazy Rich Asians trilogy which has been SO much fun. It reminds me of Gossip Girl, but set in Singapore. I also watched the movie and may have a crush on the main character’s boyfriend. Needless to say, if you want a book that is an easy, entertaining read, this is it.

If you’re into fantasy, you should check out A Court of Thorns and Roses. It is the first book in a series and is essentially a fairy version of Beauty and the Beast for grownups. I couldn’t put it down, and it’s been ages since I’ve got that drawn into a fantasy novel. The characters are dynamic and Maas does a good job of painting a picture of the setting. There are times where it is a little slow, but the book was overall enjoyable.

Although I’m not in a place right now where I should be spending money on new clothes (or anything), I can’t help but browse & Other Stories. Their loungewear section is especially resonating with me right now. If I could go nuts, and spend all the money, I would be adding nearly everything from that edit and their dresses.

My 4th-grade teacher taught me how to cross-stitch and I remember how much I enjoyed passing time during my lunch breaks making pretty designs. The other day, I found a youtube video of someone teaching some basics of embroidering, and then I started searching for more content since then. Also, I’ve noticed a massive resurgence of people embroidering, due to the coronavirus, on social media. People have said that they just picked it up again during the quarantine! That has inspired me so much that I’ve bought myself a beginner’s embroidery kit with all the necessary material, including a pretty pattern. Now, I’m impatiently waiting for this package to come in the mail any day, and I will be walking you through my progress on my Instagram!

I have discovered the most amazing chicken recipe on the planet and it has changed the dinner routine. Go to Natasha’s Kitchen if you want to see a more photogenic version, and a bunch of other recipes, including Slavic ones. My version is not the most attractive version, but it did not need to look great to be mind-blowing. This glaze is out of this world and tastes great on everything, including broccoli and potatoes.

Have you found any amazing recipes or activities that I need to try? Let me know in the comments section!