After the Election—A Short List.

After one of the most grueling and divisive elections I have seen in my 57 years, we now know the results. Some of us feel hopeless, bleak, and anxious, while others feel hope and elation.

This week, I’d like to share a quick list that I’m using to cope with some of these emotions. You may think these are shallow ideas in these times, but this is my list.

What’s next? The world is probably not going to end tomorrow or in January, and I am working on just getting through today. Here is my short list of diversions that I am using to keep my mind from ruminating. Perhaps some of these ideas will resonate with you.

1. Focus on Building My Fall Capsule Wardrobe:

Retail therapy is a true American pastime, and this seems like a great time to indulge. I’m not suggesting going overboard, maxing out credit cards, and spending like there’s no tomorrow; however, the search continues for the perfect fall wardrobe pieces.

I recently found a great blog called Sustainably Chic.

I appreciate their perspective on the origination of the capsule wardrobe, their list of clothing pieces, and their considerations for sustainable selections. I love finding a cashmere sweater at my favorite consignment store and not settling for clothes that do not fit (or have pockets!)

Philosophically, the capsule concept is easy: high-quality natural materials in silhouettes that you find flattering. My quest for an elevated wardrobe started with my 2022 trip to Japan.

2. Work out, Take a Bike Ride, or a Long Walk:

Wednesday, November 6th, was not a day that I wanted to work out. I was gloomy, tired, and unsure. But I went anyway to our local gym for an intense workout @customcore on IG. I pounded out the stress and felt so much better after—like a release valve. I also find long urban walks and bike rides with my husband to be fun adventures.

3. Visit a Local Bookstore or Library:

Last weekend, I went to Barnes and Nobles and chose some eerily appropriate titles for this month’s reading.

Reasons Not to Worry: How to be Stoic in Chaotic Times, by Brigid Delaney. I have been a fan of Stoic philosophy since the beginning of the pandemic. Understanding ways to accept things that I cannot change is exactly what I need. (link)

Another book that I got:

This book is feeding my wanderlust, especially right now, when a part of me wants to leave.  I am very excited to escape into this book. Although I am not expecting long term travel soon, I can dream about the prospect!

4. Attend a Local Community Event:

You may have figured that I was going to include this one in my list! Our annual open house is next Thursday, November 14th, from 7-9 pm. Consider this your official invitation! We would love to see you in our Candler Park studio (1653 McLendon Ave.) and celebrate the holiday season with you. We have transformed our space to include the work of Crysta Luke and Katie Vigilante. We love the winter maximalist look that we have created and cannot wait to share food, drink, and conversation with you!

5. Take Care of Myself:

I am allowing myself to grieve, but I am choosing not to go into a black hole. I choose to remain optimistic and hopeful because essentially that is who I am. It may be a difficult 2025, but I am choosing to give the country and its citizens the benefit of the doubt, for my own personal sanity. Take care of yourself, too.

Best,

Stephanie