Friday, March 1, 2013

Music, Books, Miles, and Looks of February

Oh man, this has been another kind of tough week.  I had to return to Charlotte for a 24 hour trip, which I was not exactly thrilled about because I was just there Thur-Sun of last week and I will be there Mon-Wed of next week. I already feel spread thin, so adding in all of these work trips is NOT helping.  After this trip next week, I sincerely hope I don't have to travel again until after my move.

Music:

 
















The Call by Regina Spektor - I was introduced to this song through Pandora, which is how I find most new songs these days.  I love Regina Spektor's voice.  I would love to see her live some day!

Books:

This was a slow reading month for me.  I increased my study hours to 18 hours/week and studied a total of 69 hours, so that cut out some reading.  And in general I just don't have as much down time with all the things I am doing to prepare for my move.  But I still managed to read 3 books.


Beautiful Ruins by Jess Walters - I really enjoyed this book.  The setting seamlessly changes from post-WWII to modern day, and from the Cinque Terra region of Italy to LA. It is hard to explain the plot without getting too wordy but it is about a young American and a young Italian that meet in their 20s, and it follows them through the twists and turns of their lives.

The Secret of the Nightingale Palace by Dana Sachs  - You can read my review here.

Paper Towns by John Green - I have now read all of John Green's books.  I think TFiOS and Looking Alaska kind of set an unrealistically high bar.  I enjoyed Paper Towns, just not as much as his other books.  It's about a teenage boy who tries to find his next door neighbor who has gone missing, leaving a trail of clues for him.

Miles:

Yah, this wasn't my month for running either.  I put in some miles, but nothing substantial (61).  I'm juggling a lot these days and right now, logging substantial miles is not a priority.  I am mostly doing short 4 mile runs and most have been on the dreadmill. 

Looks:

** crickets **  Between my commitment to not clothes shop until after my move and the fact that the weather has been really cold (aka sweater weather), I have no cute outfits to share this month.  I have a gift card to Banana Republic that I plan to use to buy something springy for my going away party this month (I'm thinking yellow pants!), so maybe I will have something to share next month!

As you can probably tell from this post, February was not my best month.  I feel like all I do is work, study, run a little, and deal with moving stuff.  Add in multiple trips to Charlotte and I am just overwhelmed by life in general.  As a result, I cancelled plans for the weekend and plan to lay low.  Hopefully I'll feel a bit more like my normal self after a couple of quiet nights in with Phil. 

22 comments:

Becky said...

I'm glad you cancelled plans this weekend - you need to rest! And with everything you have going on you ran 61 miles, studied 69 hours, and read three books? You're amazing!

Happy Friday my friend!

missris said...

Blech, February is the worst. Hang in there, lady. Things will get better, it will be spring soon, and you're moving to an exciting new place! Think of how many fun new experiences and things life has in store for you in the next few months :)

Nora said...

I love having gift cards to spend. I always feel like a rich woman when that happens!

Canceling plans can be the most freeing thing sometimes. Hope you get some R&R this weekend. xo

Marlys said...

Yup, I agree! Cancelling plans for the weekend is a great idea! You have had a full month! I think 4 mile runs are just about perfect! Soon spring will be here and the snow & ice will be gone so you can run outdoors!
Yellow pants sound bright & cheery!

Leigh said...

I used to like Regina Spektor, but now she reminds me of someone I can't stand so I can't listen to her music. Is that weird? I've only read one of John Green's books, but might have to check out his others.

Have a great weekend!

Stephany said...

February is always a tough month for me, for some reason. It's just a "blah" month! You got a TON of stuff done this month, though! Way to go on the studying and the running and the packing and the reading. :) You're a busy, busy lady.

I hope you have a great, relaxing weekend! Good on you for cancelling plans in light of your crazy week. :)

Nilsa @ SoMi Speaks said...

One bright spot about your move is you'll be able to move those runs back outside immediately!

Lauren @ Sassy Molassy said...

So impressed you still fit in reading 3 books in a completely busy and hectic month! But it's also a great stress relief and way to unwind. Can't wait to see your new BR purchase as your outfits are always super cute.

Carolina John said...

Wow that is the kind of month that makes me want to go into hiding. crawl into a corner curled up in the fetal position and hide like nobody will find me.

Get some rest! the sun is shining bright today, it's in the mid-50's here, and spring is on the way!

Amber said...

I think you still got in a lot of running considering how busy you've been! Enjoy the restful and plan-free weekend!!

Abby said...

60 miles is a lot considering how busy you are Lisa! Don't stress on the number - you're amazing and have a ton on your plate!

I love Regina Specktor! I listen to her Pandora station all the time! Her and Kate Nash both! I've even got Ryan hooked on their music, which I think is hilarious! (He'd be embarrassed if he knew I was making this public.)

Enjoy your quiet weekend -- those are the best!

Kelly (She Wears a Red Sox Cap) said...

I do find it funny that you and Amber's "slow" running months still triple my regular running months. It's all relative, right?

I'm sorry you are feeling so stressed. I am feeling similarly just because of work alone so I can't even imagine how you are feeling! :) I hope this weekend makes you feel better!

The Many Thoughts of a Reader said...

I've kind of got the vibe from reviews that I may just not read any of John Green's other stuff until he comes out with a new book since everyone else seems disappointed in the others!

Kyria @ Travel Spot said...

I know it sucks to have to cancel plans, but I am sure it will be for the best! Enjoy your relaxing weekend and don't worry too much about the future! PS You read 3 books?! I only read 2 and I am not even moving or traveling for work! You underestimate yourself!

Lisa-Marie said...

I think February does this to everyone. And I think you deserve those nights in. Lots of chilling for you!!

R's Rue said...

Get some rest!
www.rsrue.blogspot.com

Unknown said...

Remember to breathe. Take care of yourself.
Miss you!

Jeanie said...

Quiet nights in with someone you care about is a great restorative. Yes, you've got a lot on your plate and lots pulling at you and picking and choosing on your downtime is critical. I still don't see how you pull off all that you do and you have so much of my admiration, I can't even express it.

Lisa @ Lisa the Vegetarian said...

I sort of decided not to do any shopping until spring, so I haven't had many interesting looks these past few months. Hard to want to dress cute when it's below freezing outside all the time!

San said...

3 books in February? That's amazing, girl, with everything you have going on... I didn't finish one.

I hope things will slow down for you very soon... I mean, that is just ridiculous to make you travel so much on top of the upcoming move.

Jolene - EverydayFoodie said...

I am always amazed by how much you read. Also, I hope March is a much better month for you!

Emily Jane said...

You read like a machine and deserve an award :)

Regina's voice is lovely... Samson is one of my favourite songs.

I hope March looks up for you! And hi!