Monthly Favourites - January 2020

In contrast to pretty much every other month, January did NOT fly by. I don’t know what it is about coming back to school after Christmas that makes everything feel like it’s going by in slow motion. Everyone’s starting to feel the drain of never seeing daylight, and after spending Christmas break grazing on cookies and chocolate, your eating pattern is way off.

Nevertheless, it has had some nice moments. I’ve been to see a lot of movies (what else is there to do in the middle of a wet British winter?), and I’ve really been focusing on myself as I start my new goals. Here are my highlights:

1.      Being with my Family.

As usual, seeing my family was incredible but I was also very sad when I had to say goodbye. The one thought getting me through is that it is the last time I’m going to be leaving them.

However, seeing them over the break, ringing in the New Year with them, and skiing with my dad and sister (until she broke her thumb, of course) was the best refresher I could have asked for. It almost reminded me of why I’m going home. Before Christmas, I was feeling like leaving was a terrible idea, but I now feel strong in my decision.

2.      Starting the New Year off on the slopes. 

I’ve been skiing since I was two but every year, I forget how much I love it. It’s one of the only activities I do that truly and fully relaxes me. I’ve also had many meaningful conversations with my dad on the ski lift that can never be taken away. It’s something he taught me and Brianne to do and it will continue to be the father-daughter activity. It means so much to me to have that time with him now.

3.      Self-Care Day

I mentioned this in my last post, but I really struggled with my mental health a couple weeks ago. I’m still thinking back to that day because I’m proud for pulling myself out of that. I think the biggest thing that helped me out was seeing Frozen 2 by myself. A movie forces you to sit down in the dark, disconnect, and focus on something else.

When I came out of the movie, I felt so much better. I actually felt like my mind had straightened itself out. I bought vitamins that I’ve been taking more consistently, I got back into doing yoga, and I took the time I needed to be okay again. Self-care doesn’t always mean baths and face masks; sometimes, it’s forcing yourself to get out and do things differently to get a change of scenery.

4.      Films

This was the month of films! Mini reviews: Frozen 2 was definitely not as good as the first. I liked the messages for kids (for example, the song about things making more sense when you’re older really got me). 1917 was poignant and not too war-y for a war film. It was about the journey rather than the blood and gore of typical war movies. I saw in 4DX and it was a great experience. The leader of the pack is Jojo Rabbit for sure. I went into it knowing nothing, but it’s probably one of the best movies I’ve ever seen. It’s one of the ones where when you watch it again, you’ll notice more and more. I highly suggest it.

5.      Sex Education – Netflix

If you have not seen this show yet, you are fully missing out. It is a show set in a British college (16-18 years) and it tackles the sexual issues teenagers go through. It is hilarious, thoughtful, and relatable. Matt and I have spent many a late night catching up because we just wanted to see what happened next. I personally think it’s one of the best shows on Netflix.

That’s it for January! I mean, we still have a week left, and the end cannot come soon enough. What is it about this time? Does anyone else feel this way?

To try and dispel some of the negativity around this time of year, comment below and tell me the best part of your month. Share the positivity!

-        Daniella