MY podcast 'XOXOJK'

We posted our sixth episode of XOXOJK this morning! 

We started this podcast, mostly, because we met, liked each other, and had a great volleying conversation.

With more than 1000 downloads, and tons of positive feedback, we're having the time of our lives and hope you continue to listen and join the conversation. (We'd probably still do it with 5 listens and no feedback!)

Next week's episode will focus on the expectations and pressure of the holidays, something we all deal with in one way or another this time of year. Again, thanks for listening! You're the best.

Freelancer Uniform on POLYVORE

I'm back to freelancing full time, and therefore, needed to adjust my daily clothing. Some days, I never change out of my pajamas, but I find it's better for my mental health and productivity I bought a few new soft staples, but mostly just pulled out a bunch of pieces I already had.

I quickly discovered that I have a general "uniform": a soft graphic t, a pair of black or gray leggings, a wrap sweater in the cooler months, plus a scarf in the even cooler ones, and my slippers.

At least three days a week, I have to run out to get my boys from school or stop at my co-op for some groceries. I want to look pulled together enough to do that without having to interrupt my day to change. You can spend more on certain things and less on others. I blow through expensive or cheap leggings at the same rate, so I buy the cheap ones. 

I love a good, soft sweater or wrap, and have three that I rotate through. I will do a more colorful version of this soon. Today: neutrals with mixed prints and two footwear options. 

Not shown: Coffee!

 

The Art of the 20-Minute Nap

No one ever believes this when I tell them, but I take a 20-minute nap almost daily that makes me feel completely rested and ready for the remains of the day. I learned it on accident when I was traveling a lot producing ARTCRANK and HAD to rest and only had 20 minutes between setting up the show and throwing the party. 

Things you'll need:

  • A bed or couch (or floor and pillow)
  • A heavy blanket (heavier the better, but any may work for you)
  • Relative silence (or earplugs)
  • Your phone

This is how I do it: I drink an extra large glass of water (nature calling will wake you even if your alarm doesn't) to get the benefits of hydration as well as the nap. I lay down and cover up, and elevate my feet if possible. I tuck my hands under my butt. (I'm a tucker.) If it helps you to cover your eyes, do that. Set your timer for 20 minutes and go in. If you're wearing earplugs, hold your phone or lay it on your chest. Breathe deeply and drift off. 

You won't fall all of the way to sleep, that's not the point. I was doing it wrong napping for an hour or more because I felt so sluggish afterwards and then for the rest of the day. When I nap like this, I always wake up with a clear mind and smaller bags under my eyes. Once you do it a few times, you'll start waking up after 19 or so minutes or so (but please still set your alarm). Try it a couple of times to see if it will work for you. 

Happy napping! Let me know how it goes.