Catching My Eye – A Spoonful of Honi

Catching My Eye | 07.09.21

Kimberly — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 13:00:22 +0000

Happy Friday! I don’t know about you, but short weeks always feel extra long to me. I have a fun weekend planned celebrating a friend’s birthday, seeing a play at a farm, and packing up a storm for my upcoming move. Life has been anything by slow lately. It feels like a complete 180 from last year, and I’d be lying if I said I was handling it well. I’ve had one too many crying sessions lately, but I’m really hoping the fall can be a time of relaxation and joy as the holidays approach and my brother gets married. Anyone else feeling constantly overwhelmed with life going back to normal? this week’s good things: Family time over the weekend was much needed, Maggie cuddles have been extra sweet, I’m deep in a good book and all I want to do is read. Let’s get started! one | a book list It’s a big month for publishing! Check out this list of the 43 most anticipated book releases of July. I’ve already added 10 books to my ever-growing TBR list. two | work tips Need to send that pesky reminder email regarding the item you’re waiting on? Here’s some tips on how to perfectly craft that email bump. three | fashion find I got some linen shorts from Target last week, and I knew I needed to pair it with a bodysuit. I have never liked bodysuits on me, but this one from Amazon fits like a glove. I got it in the green, but I’m waiting for the black to come back in stock. four | friendship tips Love your friends but don’t know how to show them? I love these tips on how to show you care based on someone’s Enneagram type. Speaking as an Enneagram 1, they nailed it. five | currently reading Reese, Ames, and Katrina are about to enter into a very complicated relationship. Reese and Ames were together when Ames was Amy. He decided to detransition to a live as a man to make life easier, but that decision cost him his relationship with Reese, his only family. When Katrina, Ames’s boss and lover finds out she’s pregnant with Ames’s child, he wonders if this is the chance he’s been waiting for to have it all with Reese. Could they be a family together? Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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Catching My Eye | 07.02.21

Kimberly — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 13:00:41 +0000

Happy Friday! I hope everyone is able to enjoy a long weekend to celebrate America’s birthday whether you have today or Monday off. I’ll be heading up to Kentucky to spend time with my boyfriend’s sister and brother-in-law, and I can’t wait to relax! This week, as most weeks, has been really hectic — I think life is going to be a little bit in disarray until I can get settled in my new place — but its also been a blast to celebrate birthdays and accomplishments and begin the packing process for my new place. this week’s good things: birthday celebrations for three important people in my life, knocked HUGE to-dos off my list, found the perfect bridesmaid dress. Let’s get started! one | ethical options As mentioned below, I’m not the greatest at ethical shopping, but I really want to cultivate a lifestyle that does support ethical choices and options. I’m attempting to get into thrifting, and I love this curated list of ethical fashion options from The Good Trade. If you’ve got other recommendations on how I can make better choices for the environment, please let me know! two | the four-day workweek I’ve been reading books and articles about shorter work weeks since I can remember, so why are we still slogging through 40 hours minimums in America? I would estimate I work over 40 hours most weeks, but what would happen if we implemented some of the tips from smaller companies that have minimized work time to maximize productivity and happiness? three | fashion find I hate to admit this, but I’ve been loving Amazon fashion! I got this top this week, and I went to a birthday dinner for a friend where everyone was complimenting me on it. The perfect top to dress up or dress down. four | books interesting people read Looking to find your next read? Base it off of what interesting people are submitting to this website. It was founded by a company based in Singapore and its goal is to make reading fun, collaborative, and easy. five | currently reading I am devouring the second book in the From Blood and Ash series. A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire picks up right where the first book left off, and I am truly loving it. I really enjoy the way Jennifer L. Armentrout writes, and there’s nothing better than being sucked into a book just for the fun of it. I can’t really explain anything without giving anything away, so just know I love it. Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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Catching My Eye | 06.25.21

Kimberly — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 13:00:54 +0000

Happy Friday! This week was an emotional rollercoaster. My boyfriend and I spent quite a bit of time on Tuesday solving a problem that’s been on our plates since December, my health issue from earlier in the year cropped up again, and I got amazing news at work. Some ups, some downs, but mostly I’m just excited for the weekend. I’ve got some quality friend time planned, and I can’t wait to catch up with my gals. this week’s good things: Amazon Prime Day (consumerism at its finest), crossed a big to-do item off the list, got great news at work. Let’s get started! one | making new friends I love love love these tips from Grace on how to make new friends as an adult. The biggest takeaway for me was to not be afraid to make the first move — I made one of my best friends by sliding into her Instagram DMs to ask if she wanted to go to CMA Fest with me, and we laugh every time we tell the story. two | work tips I’m back in the office full-time, and boy does 3 p.m. hit differently. I’ll give anything a try that promises to wake me up in the afternoon these days. I’m interested to try these habits recommended by Self that promise to energize my afternoon. A few ideas stood out to me, that are plausible, like playing some more upbeat music, taking the time to make a snack, and scheduling in breaks. I’ll be trying these out next week. three | skincare find I have been experiencing the driest skin in my entire life the last month or so, and I feel like I’m running out things to try. My future sister in law is big into skincare, and she recommended this Tony Moly mask to me. I immediately ordered it, and I can’t wait to try it out. four | snack thoughts I’m thinking about investing in Thrive Market. Does anyone use it and love it? I’m such a big snacker, and I’m just trying to decide if it’s worth it. Let me know in the comments or in my DMs. five | currently reading Set Boundaries, Find Peace came recommended to me in a Girl’s Night In newsletter, and it came at the perfect time for me. I’m a self-proclaimed people-pleaser, so nothing is harder for me than boundaries. I do my darnedest, but it’s something I’ve always struggled with. In Nedra Glover Tawwab’s debut-book, she delves into how to set healthy boundaries in your personal life with friends and family as well as with your work life with toxic coworkers or unrealistic expectations. I’m loving it so far and can’t wait to permanently add it to my shelf (it’s currently on loan from the library). Happy reading, Kimberly

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Catching My Eye | 06.18.21

Kimberly — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 13:00:31 +0000

Happy Friday! Boy am I glad it’s the weekend. It was a long week. I worked late almost every night, and I completely messed up my sleep schedule, so I definitely need rest this weekend. After a year of no plans, everything came back in full force, and I am feeling the side effects of that. How are you fairing in this post-pandemic world or is it just Nashville that feels like it’s completely back to normal? this week’s good things: I bought a couch for my new apartment, and it should only take a couple weeks once I’m moved in to arrive (if you don’t know, couches are delayed for MONTHS right now), I finished No Exit and it was so good I’m still thinking about it, and I’m celebrating a great friend’s birthday this weekend. Let’s get started! one | juneteenth explained Juneteenth is tomorrow, and if you’re like me, you, unfortunately, didn’t know about this holiday until last year (we are all learning). I thought this article did a great job of explaining what the holiday is, how to honor the day, and why it matters. two | a book list Summer books are here! There are so many amazing books coming out in the next few months, and I love this compiled list from The Everygirl to kick off my TBR. three | fashion find I went to the mall with my brother and future sister-in-law last weekend, and I saw so much white eyelet I couldn’t stop looking at all the pieces. This is definitely one of my favorite rompers that caught my eye. This with a flannel or black denim jacket over it? Say no more. four | mental health This piece from Liz of Hello Adams Family is exactly what I needed to read this week (and every week if I am being honest). I am a person consumed by how I could always be doing “more,” and I’d be lying to you if I told you I knew how to stop thinking that way, but this article was a nice little reminder that I’m not the only that. What we watch on TV, TikTok, and our daily in-person activities tells us that “more is more,” but sometimes, we need rest, and that’s okay. More is not always more. five | currently reading She was known as Emily Doe by millions during the Brock Turner trial. Now, she’s taking back her name and identity. Chanel Miller was sexually assaulted by Turner on Stanford’s campus, and when he only received six months in jail for his crime, the world didn’t bat an eye. Miller’s story highlights a world that works to protect the perpetrator rather than the victim in most cases, a world where even when you do everything right something can go wrong, and a world where the most courageous thing to do sometimes is get out of bed. I’m listening to the audiobook, and while it’s a difficult story to read, Miller’s talent with words in undeniable. Happy reading, Kimberly

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Catching My Eye | 06.11.21

Kimberly — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 13:00:08 +0000

Happy Friday! I had a good week. Anyone else? It’s been awhile since I’ve felt this good, and I’m terrified it’s going to go away (that’s anxiety for you), but I’m soaking it up while I can. This week was jam-packed with meetings, networking events, and late nights of work, but it’s all worth it. this week’s good things: I joined a Nashville bookstagram book club, I’m not as tired this week, I worked our four times this week. one | the power of thought I loved this article about how some people are scared to be happy because the world is such a dark place. But actually, acting happy and working to bring about change is shown to be more effective. Fascinating! two | a book list It’s Pride month! I posted my list of books I recommend to read this month (and all year long), but here’s another one if you’re still wanting to add to your list! three | recent purchase I’m moving into my own place in July, and while I’m trying not to buy too many new things just to pack and move them, I couldn’t resist these reusable glass straws. I love straws, and I thought these would spice up any drink. four | father’s day gift guide Father’s Day is around the corner! If you’re anything like me, you could use some help when it comes to finding a gift for your dad. They are wonderful people, but they can be so hard to shop for! I love this list from Carly, and she always gives a good price range to choose from! five | currently reading I’m picking up No Exit this weekend. Darby is heading home from college to visit with her dying mother when she gets stuck at a truck stop in a blizzard. There’s four strangers inside the convenience store, and one girl locked in an animal crate in the car next to Darby’s outside. What is Darby supposed to do? Darby must find a way to save this child, but she has no idea who to trust. I bet I finish this in one sitting. Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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Catching My Eye | 06.04.21

Kimberly — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 13:00:02 +0000

Happy Friday! It was my first week back in the office since last March, and boy did it exhaust me! I went to a networking event last night, I got home, and I just cried from how bone-tired I was. It’s okay. All of this is going to be an adjustment, but we are in it together right? I shared some behind the scenes on my Instagram about how I’ve been feeling the last few weeks, but I’m trying to focus on the good things. this week’s good things: We’re back in the office for work and it’s nice to collaborate in person, I got back in the gym twice this week, hard work feels like it’s finally paying off. Let’s get started! one | a book list The amount of books coming out this month is insane! I’m already drowning in library books, but I may or may not have put some of these on my TBR. two | work tips I love the podcast Bad on Paper, and they have a famous episode where they talk about asking for a raise. Highly recommend giving it a listen if you’re coming up on an anniversary, taking on more responsibilities, or switching jobs. three | furniture find I’m moving into my own place at the end of July, and I’m on the hunt for the perfect couch. My boyfriend and I went and tested out the LoveSac this weekend, and I fell in love but it’s so much money! If you know of any great, affordable couch options, please let me know! four | happy pride Looking to celebrate? Here’s a calendar of international events. five | currently reading I’m diving into the second book in the Shadow and Bone trilogy, Siege and Storm, this weekend. This book follows Alina as she fights against the Darkling’s desire to control her power. She finds herself enlisting the help of a famous privateer to lead the Grisha army. Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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Catching My Eye | 05.21.21

Kimberly — Fri, 21 May 2021 13:00:47 +0000

Happy Friday! This week feels like it flew by. I was sick at the beginning of the week — we can thank everyone leaving their houses for the first time in over a year for that — so, I was really just focused on getting better the first three days of the week. I’m really looking forward to this weekend — it’s going to be a busy one, but I think it will be really rewarding. this week’s good things: I don’t have COVID, I get to talk to kids today about taking their future in their hands, I attended an author event last night that was amazing. Let’s get started! one | book list Trying to find a book to read this summer? Look no further. two | self-care If you’re anything like me, the pandemic was a basically a forced reset. As someone who has a hard time saying no, but loves spending time with herself, the lockdown was a nice reminder of what actually brings me joy in life. I love this piece about how we can use the pandemic to start fresh now that things are returning back to “normal.” three | fashion find It’s Inkwell Threads birthday! So you know I had to treat myself to a few bookish-themed clothing items. I picked up this shirt, and I’m so excited to rock it this summer. four | upcoming movies Who else loves musical adaptations into movies? I freaked when I saw the Dear Evan Hansen trailer this week. I’ve been living under a rock and didn’t even know it was being turned into a movie, so it was a pleasant surprise. I honestly don’t know if I’ll be able to see if in theatres because I have a strong feeling I will be in a puddle on the floor, but I’m so excited for Ben Platt and the rest of the cast to see this come alive on the big screen. five | currently reading After six months on the library’s waitlist, I finally got my hands on The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett. The Vignes sisters are identical in almost every way — until they run away from home at 16. One sister marries that Blackest man she can find and the other marries a white man and passes as white herself. Despite leading very different lives, the twins fates are intertwined, and when their daughters meet, everything changes. Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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Catching My Eye | 05.14.21

Kimberly — Fri, 14 May 2021 13:00:00 +0000

I have six — count them: SIX — library books due before the end of the month, and I am determined to read them ALL before they are due. Can I do it? Who knows? Am I going to try my darndest? Oh yes! If anyone has any tips for powering through reading (and enjoying it), my DMs on Instagram are open! This week was insane, just as last week was, but I think I’m getting the hang of this new client and new role I’m taking on it. It’s a challenge, but who doesn’t love a challenge? this week’s good things: I’m still dog-sitting so cuddles have been in abundance, I was able to get gas after all of Nashville freaked out and mass bought the fuel around me, I have so many good books to read this weekend! one | a book list I can’t believe it’s almost beach weather again. I feel like the first half of 2021 flew by. I love this wrap up of the 20 best beach reads for 2021. My picks are Such a Quiet Place by Megan Miranda, The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo, and Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid. two | strengthen your friendships As we begin to start entering into more normal social situations, it can be hard to have a conversation any deeper than “Wow, I can’t believe we’re actually here.” It may sound silly, but I love this breakdown from The Everygirl on how to have deeper conversations. My favorite tip? Start with curiousity. three | fashion find I’ve always been a bow girl. I never grew out of the phase, and I especially love it on dainty jewelry. I stumbled upon this necklace on Carly’s blog, and I may just have to snag it for myself. four | have a laugh Did you put all of your happiness on the coveted afternoon walk this time last year? Then, this one is for you. five | currently reading I did it. I started Booktok and Bookstagram’s most hyped book of the year, From Blood and Ash. Poppy is the Maiden. No one can see her face, no can interact with her, and nothing can happen to her until her Ascension to the gods. Everything is in Poppy’s hands, but she refuses to be a damsel in distress. She wants to fight back against what was taken from her, and nothing will stop her from becoming her own person, even if it means the god’s may find her unworthy. I’m planning to power-read the rest of this on Saturday, and I am stoked. Happy reading, Kimberly

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Catching My Eye | 05.07.21

Kimberly — Fri, 07 May 2021 13:00:38 +0000

Happy Friday! I don’t know about you, but this week felt like it both took forever and went by way too fast. I’m getting my second dose of the vaccine this afternoon, and then, I’m ready to be cuddled on the couch all Saturday with side effects. I know I definitely need the break, so while I’m not looking forward to being “sick,” I am looking forward to some down time. this week’s good things: I’m celebrating the marriage of some great friends tonight, I got puppy snuggles all week, and I am working really hard to achieve my dreams. Let’s get started! one | book list It’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Month! Here’s a full list of amazing books by Asian authors you should add to your TBR list. two | self-improvement Do you ever let fear keep you from playing the game despite what A Cinderella Story taught you? Same. I loved how this article from The Good Trade broke down the concept of fear and explained how to break down your goals and focus on what really matters when fear is holding you back. three | fashion find After my Converse caused me serious foot pain after two trips, my boyfriend finally convinced me that it was time to level-up my white sneaker game. We popped in to Nordstrom Rack one day, and I found the shoe of my dreams. Never did I think they would be Puma’s (sorry, Puma), but I am obsessed with these sneakers. First of all, they are all white, which I love. Second, they have the softest, cushiest soles ever. And third, they slip on. I don’t have to untie and retie them every time I want to wear them. Dare I say, they are perfect? four | work tips I spent a lot of time this week and last looking into project management systems. They all do basically the same thing from my perspective, but I decided to look further into Monday for my personal use to keep long-term goals/projects in one place. So far, I’m really liking how easy it is to add notes and keep things organized. Anyone else have a project management system for their own life? It’s almost like replicating my planner. five | currently reading I cohost a book club with a non-profit for young professionals I serve on the board of. We try to read books that would aid in one’s professional development, and this month, we are reading a book from a local entrepreneur, Lunch with Lucy. This book was written by Sherry Stewart Deutchsmann, and it chronicles her experience starting a successful business centered around empathy. I’m about half-way through, and I am loving the lessons I am learning. Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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Catching My Eye | 04.30.21

Kimberly — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 13:00:29 +0000

Happy Friday! We made it through the week! This was actually a surprisingly good week? It was insanely busy, but I feel like that’s when I do my best work. I don’t do well with down time. Anyone else? Last week I went on a road trip with my boyfriend through Atlanta to a small town in Georgia for a friend’s wedding. The wedding was absolutely beautiful, but I’d be lying if I didn’t say my favorite part of the trip was watching Whale Sharks at the Georgia Aquarium. While I actually loved pressing “pause” on life (for the most part) during the pandemic, I’m relieved things are returning to some semblance of normal in Nashville. I’m incredibly lucky that the pandemic didn’t claim the lives of people I love and my job was not disrupted. I know so many other people were not that fortunate. My thoughts and prayers are still with those heavily impacted by COVID and may brighter days be ahead for all. this week’s good things: I made a new friend, I crocheted, I’m working on a fun, new client, and I’m dog-sitting one of my favorite puppers. Let’s get started! one | book list Cupcakes and Cashmere pulled together a list of “unputdownable” books by Black authors, and I had to share it with you all. If you’re trying to diversify your reading choices, there are so many good books on this list! two | reaching your dreams I’m a big proponent of going after your dreams. Nothing comes easy, including happiness. So, if you want to be happy, work for it! I love how this article encourages people to make a plan to improve your well-being. three | fashion find It’s not in my budget right now, but I’m absolutely obsessed with this button-down. It’s the perfect overly slouchy but still put together fit, and I am highly tempted. four | mental health I’ve been having a hard time sticking to a bedtime routine lately, and I love these tips from The Good Trade about the timing of how to wind down. It starts with being intentional about screen time and trickles down to how to make going to bed a treat. five | currently reading When I was “interviewing” for a new board position recently, I was told I should read Crucial Conversations. It’s a book about how to handle conflict and difficult conversations, and there truly is no book I needed to read more. I’m horrible at conflict, and it’s already taught me so much. I highly recommend picking it up if you’re in any type of leadership role. Happy adventuring, Kimberly

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