Today was officially my day 1 of my quarantine (and not because I actually have the virus, but just because we are all quasi-quarantined). With the decision to close the shop at the end of the day yesterday, and this past weekend being dedicated to prepping for quarantine, this is the first day for me that wasn't my normal routine. I know I'm a little late to all of this, but I have been being super careful along the way, washed my hands 50 million times, and really only have a small bubble I operate in anyways. This whole situation is super sucky, to say the least. There isn't a word that adequately sums it up. But I think that's the obvious thing we can all agree on is that the news is rehashing that enough, so I'm trying to focus on the positive, and make the best of it. In all honesty, this "forced downtime" to get things done is kind of exactly what I need right now, mentally, emotionally and physically. I know not everyone is in the same boat, and a lot of people are struggling to heart breaking lengths, and yes I'm worried about a paycheck, having a job to come back to, all of that - but as a good friend likes to say (the one that is cool enough to get me into ankle spraining spin classes), 'the only way out is through'. We've got this - because there is no other option. We're going to make it thru, and in the meantime, handle it with grace, strength, and of course style. It's okay to break down, feel defeated and want to give up, but we're all stronger than that. Especially when we support each other. Isn't that sooooo cool to think about? With the help of modern technology, a friend, college, family member, anyone is literally just at your finger tips. Feel free to email Lauren and I and rant about whatever you have to get off your chest. A good portion of our day is spent going back and forth with each other about what annoying thing our husbands did, or what snarky comment someone made to us, or why we can't stand our mother in laws. It helps to get it out!
So, here is DAY 1 of my quarantine. (also, I'm fully prepared to eat my words in a few days when my mindset is WAY less positive. Should we give it 3 days?)
I've read so much about warm lemon water first thing in the morning, as I'm sure we all have. At this point, I

think I'm the only one not doing it. When I was at Trader Joe's over the weekend for the stock up, they had bags of lemons and limes in abundance. I grabbed several (determined not to get scurvy on top of everything else going around!), figured it was time to start the lemon water thing. Grabbed one of my favorite mugs, and drank 1.8

liters of warm lemon water (this did take me all the way thru lunch, but I actually really liked it). I'm sure I'll have amazing results by tomorrow. ;) I also wore the PJ Salvage striped lounge pants, and oh my goodness, they're amazing!! The fabric is thicker than the modals they've done in the past, and so. much. more. flattering! It doesn't cling, and I don't feel like I'm jiggling all around when I walk. Plus, new lounge pants make you feel a little extra glam while around the house. Old school Velvet sweater in the perfect green for St Patricks Day (these things are dang expensive...every time we get new Velvet sweats I gasp at the price, but they hold up amazing, and are my favorite things to throw on, making it totally worth it).

Next I finished sewing these oh so cheerful coasters - aren't they adorable? If you want a set, they'll be on the site soon. ;) I think they're fun pops to make you smile around the

house, and great hostess gifts. I've been giving them out to all my friends and family when we go visit. The color combos are fun to come up with, too. Can't decide what to do next...maybe just a 2 tone? White and grey for something more simple? Or a monochromatic pink? So excited!!
After I did those, and was halfway thru my lemon water, I decided to hang this hook/hanger thing in our living room that I've needed to do since right after Christmas. Yeah. Its been sitting on my floor a long time. Gather my tools, and even found a level so that I wasn't hating it being slightly off level for the next however many years because I'd be

too lazy to move it and have to fill in a hole. I know, pathetic I don't have my act together more, but isn't there value in honestly realizing my limits? Maybe? Hopefully? I forgot to snap a pic of it while the light was still good, so I'll do that tomorrow...I know you're on the edge of your seat in suspense. haha
My little sister Cindy started texting me and I knew it was a cry for help, so I invited her over. I had some errands to run (going to the shop to fill web orders, and the barn to see my handsome horse - don't panic!), so it was the perfect way to give her something to do, and give her a chance to practice driving. She's wanting to take the drivers test in April, and honestly, 3 months ago I thought she meant April 2022 with the way she

drove. But, she has come SUCH a long way, and it was actually pleasant driving around with her today. I took her thru the web order process to kill some time, and we shopped in the store, picking out our favorite things. Of course had to take selfies to document this part of the day, and because our outfits matched, like really well, without even trying. Must be a sister thing. Todd says we're sooooooo related, but I don't see it. ;) Every time I complain about something she does, he reminds me that I am the EXACT same way. I'm sure that I'm not. Luckily we'll have a lot of time in the coming weeks to hash that debate out. LOL.
Next we went out to the barn (and Cindy had to merge on and off of the big interstate to get there - big deal for her!), and played with the horses. It was defiantly therapeutic, and even Cindy, who isn't a fan of the large equine animals, started to warm up and even willingly pet them, and picked out a favorite (it wasn't Zinc, so she is dead to me, but oh well, we had a good run). She even got on him for a little ride.

Well, I told her to just sit on him so I could get a pic really quick, but walked her around the arena a few times, and she actually seemed to enjoy it! How fun!!
Then we came home, and I made vegetable and dumpling soup. Not my best soup, but not my worst. Luckily there's always tomorrow to try something better. ;) I have never eaten at home so many meals in a row like this! I know I've said it before, but I really do enjoy cooking, just not when I have to. ;) I usually always grab lunch at work (the market has so many amazing places to eat, its next to impossible NOT to eat there everyday), and Todd and I eat out more nights a week than we eat in. Either at friends houses, or going to restaurants or getting take out. I'm not going for domestic goddess of the year or anything, but should be up for some award here eventually.
That's my Day 1. I actually had a lot of fun, and got a lot done. And also spent some time watching mindless TV, which I'm not sorry for. Overall, I feel good about today, and am looking forward to tomorrow. :)
Signed with much love, ME {AT}