#BreakThings: What are you asking?

10.28.20

Yesterday, I was having a tele-health appointment with my doctor about some recent test results when he asked me a question that blew my mind.

“Is there any reason why you might be more stressed this year than last year?”

I stared at the screen for what felt like a long time. I wanted to ask if he lived in some alternate universe where the nation was not dealing with a global pandemic, an economic recession, a pivotal election, and a serious shakeup on the Bachelorette?

The only answer I could muster was, “Besides the obvious?”

I’ve spent the last month trying to get a better handle on my mental health. More quiet time. More me time. Less work. But it feels futile.

I keep telling myself that next week will be different. Next week will be less stressful. But isn’t that just adult life? Pushing through what’s immediately in front of you, living for the vain belief that the sea beyond the horizon will be calmer.

Here’s to next week, and the triumph of hope over experience.

Whitney Cummings narrates Bunga Bunga, a fun and informative podcast about the meteoric rise and fall of Italian leader Silvio Berlusconi. Honestly, it’s nice to be distracted from America’s issues with the (shockingly similar) problems of the Italian government. Cummings is an incredible narrator, and the episodes are the perfect blend of history lesson and lightness.

What does Chynna Clayton, the special assistant to the former First Lady, need in her bag? And what kind of bag does she carry? (Spoiler Alert: It’s this one.) Read up on the bag spill we all need.

Did you vote? Do you love MM. LaFleur? Send MM proof you voted by email or Instagram, and they’ll send you access to an incredible 50% off sale. (I’m sending a screenshot of my ballot tracking notice.)

Their Morandi sweater is the warmest thing I own, and at <$140, a steal. Check out the rest of their 50% off options, here. And don’t forget to vote!

This pumpkin soup is the best homemade recipe for autumnal soup that I’ve ever made. And the mushroom crostini that goes with it? Make double, because you’ll eat half while you’re waiting for the soup to finish.

What type of tidy person are you? Read this charming comic on Vox to find out.