Hello Friend. I’m very happy to meet you! Isn’t it strange how the rush of the holiday season ends so quickly? yeah yeah. We know that New Year’s Eve is fast approaching, but for now we’re holding off on any more festivities until next year.
I call it a “cocoon” in my heart.
Maybe it’s because I’ve been quieter than usual for the past few weeks. I know that my new job will quickly change my life for the better within a few weeks.
I also knew that Christmas would be a little different this year with just me, El Hub, and Connor (long story). Anyway, I was expecting a more introspective and quiet holiday, just the three of us and of course Rosie, staying at home and not traveling. But it was one of the best vacations ever because we received the ultimate gift from our friends and neighbors in life: the gift of time, attention, and compassion.
We gave and received impromptu invitations to lunch and play sessions. We ate snacks, chatted, and spent time with our human and animal friends, many dogs and cats.
It’s funny how food brings people together, but eating with friends can also teach you new things about yourself. I don’t dislike the arugula pesto and I found that Connor loves the pomelo fruit.
Connor and I found ourselves obsessed with neighborhood porridge, aka babul ayam, aka Indonesian chicken porridge.
Our neighbor, Linda from Indonesia, is the cutest woman I’ve ever known and one of the best home cooks. Yesterday morning she sent her husband a big bowl of this porridge with all the seasonings. And seriously, Connor and I inhaled it in record time.
It’s a bit of an interesting story for me. Because when I was a kid, we had to eat the Filipino version of porridge on holidays, and it was never my favorite. For years, I thought porridge dishes were bland and sticky, but my neighbor’s version has been life-changing. Last night I had a dream about Linda’s porridge, no kidding!
Anyway, the past few days have been very quiet and nice.
Today I’m even more looking forward to cozying up on the couch with a book, a blanket, coffee, and the people I love.
Oh, and this post isn’t about beauty, but notice how my hair is in a weird bun in the top photo. Have you been wearing your hair in a strange bun for the past few days? I might end up ripping mine off, hahaha.
I may or may not end up wearing makeup. I’ve been thinking about finally getting rid of the last remnants of Essie’s nail polish that has been holding on for dear life for the past few weeks, but maybe not. You might just let nature take its course.
Sending virtual hugs, good thoughts and good vibes. I hope that everything is going well for you and that you are having a peaceful and happy holiday season so far.
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
