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5 on a Friday

written by Parita Leave a Comment

Happy Friday from our new place in Atlanta! We’re here and settling in. It’s been a little under two weeks since we’ve moved in, and I’m happy to report that things are slowly coming together

I thought I’d share 5 random but relevant things today as they pertain to our life right now.

  1. Transitions are very very hard for kids. I obviously knew this going in to our move, but man, the way Kaiden has been adjusting took me by surprise. He’s the sweetest, gentlest boy ever, but his emotions have been all over the place lately. Again, totally 100% understandable, but you never know what will set him off. I’m hoping our new home, routine, etc. start to feel more natural to him in a couple of weeks (because that’s when daddy goes to work and mama will have to do a lot of the routine on her own!).
  2. I’m not going to lie and pretend that K was the only one experiencing heightened emotions. I was right there with him, especially when we just moved in and everything was everywhere. I had to stop, take a deep breath, and talk to Vishnu about how I was feeling because it was causing me to feel super overwhelmed. Thinking about the baby and all that we need to do to prepare for her arrival is already a lot, but add on 40+ boxes and crap everywhere, and I thought I was going to lose my mind. Thankfully, my husband knows me well and said all the right things to calm me down.
  3. Speaking of my husband, he’s truly a rock star. He’s been working day and night to make this place livable and homey. I LOVE HIM!
  4. In non-moving related news, we LOVE our Peloton bike. Both Vishnu and I have been using it over the past couple of weeks, and while it’s definitely an investment, we’re so glad we made it. Definitely makes working out super fun…our legs hate us immediately afterwards, but they’ll thank us later!
  5. I’m going to be reunited with my sister (and BIL) after a whole month! This is huge for me/us because I used to see them at least once a week. They’re also moving to Atlanta but are currently in a transition state because the home they purchased is still being built. They’ve also been traveling a little this month, so they’re not quite back yet, but they’re here until Monday. And I’m so glad we’ll get to see them a bit this weekend! Kaiden is also super excited to see his masi and masa!

Ok, that’s all I have for now. I hope y’all have an awesome Friday and weekend!

Written on July 16, 2021 Related:Friday Stuff, Life

Friday Stuff [#11]

written by Parita Leave a Comment

Happy Friday! For us it’s a bittersweet one because today’s Kaiden’s last day at his school. The school he’s been at since he was six months old. To say I’m feeling all the feels today is a big fat understatement. But deep breaths and looking ahead to creating new memories in Atlanta is getting me through.

The next time I check in on here, we’ll be in Atlanta. Craziness! So. Many. Emotions.

Enough of that, let’s get to this week’s Friday stuff…

Butter Chicken

I’ve shared this recipe on here before, but I need to share again because my husband raves when I make it. Thank you, My Heart Beets, for this amazing recipe!

Ever Chicago

Vishnu, my sister, my BIL, and I dined at Ever this week! You guys, it’s not a cheap meal (to say the least) but it’s definitely one that make any celebration worth remembering. If you’re in Chicago, have some extra $$$, and are celebrating something big, I highly recommend making a reservation. I’ll be sharing more about our experience in a post next week.

Fellowship graduation

Yesterday was Vishnu’s Fellowship graduation dinner. As much as I can’t believe in our time in Chicago is up, I can’t believe Vishnu’s training journey is coming to an end in about 15 days. At various points in the past 10 years, I felt like it would never end…ha! More than anything, I’m just SO proud of Vishnu and his perseverance. It hasn’t been easy at all, but the bumpy road to this point was well worth it. On to that attending life!

People We Meet on Vacation

People We Meet on Vacation is a book I highly recommend reading this summer! It filled my heart with so much happiness. I shared a review on my IG page as well. Get this book! You won’t regret it.

Well, that’s all from me this week! I hope you have a wonderful Friday and weekend. Enjoy!

No portion of this post is sponsored.  However, affiliate links are included. There is no extra cost to you, but I do receive a small commission on anything you buy through my links.  Thank you for reading and supporting My Inner Shakti!

Written on June 18, 2021 Related:Friday Stuff

Friday Stuff [#10]

written by Parita Leave a Comment

Hellooooo Friday! I’ve said this before, but I don’t like being the kind of person who only looks forward to weekends (as easy as that can be!). That being said, I am looking forward to this weekend because we’re celebrating Father’s Day early since we fly out next Sunday (can you believe it?!). There will be brunch, gifts, and family time! I can’t wait.

Other than that, I plan to continue my decluttering efforts. My goal is to donate/giveaway/throw away stuff in Chicago, so we don’t have to sort through it all and go through the same process in Atlanta. Wish me luck!

With that, let’s talk about some Friday stuff…

Reflection time

I attended a leadership session with an HBS professor this week who talked about the importance of including ample reflection time in our days – to ask questions, to think through what went well, what could have gone better, etc. He was talking about this from a work perspective, but this is beneficial to everyone. It’s about giving our brains some time to catch up with our bodies. Otherwise, it’s all about running from here to there, putting out fires, etc.

After hearing him speak, I definitely want to build in more time for intentional reflection. I’m thinking journaling would work well for me, but like he said, you need to make this a habit that works for you. Whatever it looks like, just get it done!

Ilia

Ilia isn’t a new brand, but it’s new to me! I just bought the Skin Serum foundation (shade Catalina SF7) after consulting with a few beauty bloggers and reading reviews. I’ve used it 5-6 times now, and I LOVE it! It doesn’t have that heavy foundation feel despite giving medium coverage, and it’s so easy to apply with your fingertips. The most impressive thing is that I wore it out on HOT days (for 3-4 hours each), and it didn’t budge or leave streaks on my face. I’m a fan!

I want to try the Super Serum Skin Tint (I did the color match via the website and was told to get shade Morgan ST11.5) as well, but I’m going to wait until later in the year. I don’t need it right now, so it feels like an unnecessary purchase, but once baby is here, I’m going to need a simplified morning routine, and I can definitely see this product being part of that. Have you tried this? If yes, let me know you’re thoughts!

Professional Troublemaker

I’m currently reading Professional Troublemaker by Luvie Ajayi Jones, and I freaking love it so far (a little under half way through). It’s the kick in the pants we will need to go out there, speak our truths, and be awesome. I think her writing style is perfectly matched to the message she’s trying to deliver. Love love love!

Good reads

Chrissy Teigen’s fall from grace – I knew there was some controversy around CT in May of this yea but honestly hadn’t looked into it too much. I used to love how direct, unabashed, honest she is, but some of the stuff she’s directed at people in the past definitely crosses a line. I don’t care what your intentions are. When you say things like that, you have to know the impact is going to be pretty bad. Would love to hear your thoughts!

12 Products to Use for Glowing, Summer Skin Without Foundation – More product recs for glowy summer skin! And the Ilia Skin Tint is on this list!

With that, I hope you have an awesome Friday and weekend ahead!

Written on June 11, 2021 Related:Friday Stuff, Uncategorized

Friday Stuff [#9]

written by Parita Leave a Comment

The weeks are really flying by around here. I can’t believe we only have two full weekends left in Chicago…and just as the weather is getting better too!

I had a master list of places I wanted to visit, people I wanted to see, restaurants I wanted to eat at, etc. all before we move, and I’m pretty sure I lost that list a while a go. Instead of fretting about all of that, I’m just going to try and enjoy the moments as they come. We’ll be back here in no time to visit is what I keep telling myself.

We do have a couple of fun dinners/events over the next two weeks – Gaijin with my sister, Ever with Vishnu, my sister, and my BIL, and Vishnu’s fellowship graduation dinner. Looking forward to each and every one!

Anyways, enough about the move. Let’s talk about some super random Friday stuff…

Morning routines

We used to have a pretty solid morning routine and were able to to get out the door in under an hour from the time K woke up to the time he walked into school. But now? Now it’s kind of messy. We get through most of what we need to – changing clothes, breakfast…and then everything breaks apart. He wants to stay and play, he doesn’t want to brush his teeth, he wants to draw his teacher a picture, etc. I’m not sure what happened but I’m sure my stress of meetings, calls, and work doesn’t help.

I’m telling myself it’s a phase because most things seem to be with kids, so hopefully he stops with the full on tears at some point.

I swear…it’s the minute he hears ‘no’ and his world falls apart. It’s all age appropriate, I get that, but man…it’s hard to communicate with an emotional child, especially once the tears start.

I do think that by working on my emotions during his emotional moments will help. Vishnu and I talked about a few things earlier this week that I need to just put in place and try. Wish me luck!

Meditation

I’ve written about meditation a few times before, and to be honest, my ‘practice,’ if we can call it that, has never stuck. I think I put too much pressure on myself, and I put it off until the end of the day when I’m super tired and just want to go to bed.

This time around, there’s no pressure, but a real desire to give it a try. I’m trying to get 10 minutes in for the next 30 days in a row. Just me, my timer, and my deep breaths (and a lot of unwanted thoughts as of right now!). We’ll see, I’ll share more later because I do seem to be more motivated this time around…let’s see if that sticks!

Pregnancy wardrobe

When I was pregnant with K, I was going into the office quite a bit. So I decided to buy a few neutral pieces (pregnancy jeans, black pants, and a few tops) and rent everything else from Le Tote. Great choice for that time!

This time around, I’m working from home 100% of the time, so I don’t feel justified in renting clothes. BUT, at the same time, I’m going to be super pregnant while living through the Georgia heat, so my current winter wardrobe won’t suffice the way it has in Chicago (so far!).

I’m trying not to go overboard because…two and through if you know what I mean! Essentially I’ve invested in a couple of more tops, 4-5 dresses and a pair of jean shorts. I figure if I need more, it’s all within a fingers tap…hopefully it’s enough to get me to the finish line.

What are your pregnancy wardrobe must haves? Any favorite places to shop?

Good reads

The Best Beach Reads for Summer – So many are headed to the beach this summer, and you can’t go without a book in hand. This is a great list for anyone who’s looking for a good book or two!

3 Lies They Tell You in School That Hurt You in Business – LOVED this!

Naomi Osaka Shows That Prioritizing Yourself Over A Job Is Still A Radical Act – Didn’t think about Naomi Osaka’s decision in this way, but it’s so true. Nothing is worth our health and sanity! Great read.

Happy Friday! I’m solo parenting most of the weekend since Vishnu’s on call Friday-Monday (last shifts!). We have a few playdates/meet ups and a birthday party on the agenda. Wish me luck!

Written on June 4, 2021 Related:Friday Stuff, Uncategorized

Friday Stuff [#8]

written by Parita Leave a Comment

What a week! I thought all the snow we were/are getting in Chicago was/is bad, but then Texas got hit with some crazy (to say the least) weather. I’m so thankful we live in a city that’s prepped for what it faces. I can’t imagine what people in Texas are going through right now. As if Covid wasn’t enough…

Other than that, I’m really looking forward to the weekend because Vishnu and I are going on a little staycation at a local hotel in the city, and my sister and BIL are going to stay with K at our place. Vishnu’s had some crazy days lately, so at my sister’s insistence, we decided to take some time for us. It’ll be my first time leaving K in well over a year, and our first solo vacation in longer than that. Although, 2 nights away barely counts as a vacation, but it’ll be a nice short getaway nonetheless.

We’re not planning on doing much. Prob just order room service in, and if the weather cooperates, maybe go grab some coffee and go for a couple of short walks. Vishnu wants to sleep. I want to do that + read + cuddle and watch TV. Can’t wait!

Oh and we want to use the Peloton bikes at this hotel. Apparently I called to ask a few questions today, and the person I spoke with said they would bring us bikes to our room! WHAT?! I’ve never heard of that! I’ll report back on what that’s like!

Oh in other non-important news. Vishnu and I watched To All the Boys: Always and Forever last weekend. To be honest, I liked it but didn’t love it! The first one was definitely my favorite.

Also, does anyone else watch HS rom-coms and feel like their HS experience was nothing like that? I mean, I know it’s a movie, but still… They’re so mature with their feelings/language/etc. Funny!

Oh, I also finished The Nightingale this weekend. Such a beautiful, heartbreaking story…definitely keep the tissues handy. I ugly cried my way through this one!

And I’m not sure if I shared this yet, but Vishnu and I finished Schitt’s Creek a few weeks ago. HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend this show if you’re looking for a series to start. It took us like 8 episodes to really get into it, but once you start, you can’t stop! Definitely cried my way through the end of the last season.

That’s all I have for now! Just wanted to check-in and say hi. Hope y’all have a safe weekend. Sending all the warm vibes and prayers I can.

Written on February 19, 2021 Related:Friday Stuff

Friday Stuff [#7]

written by Parita Leave a Comment

It’s been a while since I’ve come on here and just shared…stuff. Like all the stuff – thoughts, plans, things, etc. That’s what this post is all about. Get excited!

So first and foremost, we’re doing well. Chicago and the state of Illinois are a bit of a Covid mess, but we’re doing ok. We don’t go anywhere, except the grocery store and to school (and Vishnu goes to the hospital), and we have no plans other than staying home for Thanksgiving. We’re ok. Not great, not completely down…just ok.

I say this because I feel like a lot of people are probably where we are right now. Usually around this time of year, we’d be going home to Atlanta or having family fly up to see us. None of that. But we’re still blessed with all that we have so trying to keep the focus on that this year.

I do have this heightened anxiety that K’s school and/or classroom is going to shut down because of Covid. Every time I get an email from his school, I go into panic mode. I’m not nervous about having him home with me (ok, maybe a little) but more so about him not being in the school environment. He loves it and thrives in it. Being at home with your working mom isn’t quite the same thing. But we’ll deal with that if/when we get there. Deep breaths!

And while I don’t have super high hopes for 2021, we do have some exciting things happening that I’ll share about soon. I also can’t wait to sit down with my new planner and fill in some key dates – birthdays, anniversaries, coaching stuff. I’m taking M-W off next week, and I plan to use some of that time to do some planning and strategizing for next year. Can’t wait!

Other than that, things are pretty much the same old.

OH! If you’re a working mom (however you define working), check out the workshop my friend Amy and I are hosting on December 4 from 12-1:30 pm CST. It’s going to be amazing. AND…we’re throwing in a FREE 1:1 coaching session with either Amy or myself for each participant.

A few books to share…

For toddlers:

Be Kind – a super cute story about the importance and impact of kindness.

Twas The Night Before Diwali – a super cute Diwali story about a little monster who visits your home to eat your mithai. We’ll definitely be reading this all year as K really loves this one!

The Celebration of Diwali – another Diwali favorite. This one is centered more around the story of Diwali and why we celebrate it. Kaiden LOVES this one!

Mama’s reads:

The Henna Artist – I’m not quite done with this one but can’t wait to sit down with it over the next few days! It’s a really captivating story!

Majesty – This is the sequel to American Royals, and I can’t wait to read this! AR had a real cliffhanger of an ending, and I can’t wait to see where this book takes us!

Well, that’s all for this Friday, folks! Have a wonderful weekend. Be safe and WEAR A MASK! 🙂

No portion of this post is sponsored.  However, affiliate links are included. There is no extra cost to you, but I do receive a small commission on anything you buy through my links.  Thank you for reading and supporting My Inner Shakti!

Written on November 20, 2020 Related:Friday Stuff

Friday Stuff [#6]

written by Parita Leave a Comment

Leave it to me to share a post about not blogging frequently only to blog again a couple of days later! I just can’t stay away. 🙂

With that, I thought I would share a few things that have either been on my mind or are good finds that we’re loving.

Here we go…

Parks and Recreation

I finished all seven seasons of Parks and Rec, and I LOVED every minute of it! If you’re looking for an awesome comedy series to watch (binge!), this one should be on your list. Leslie Knope for President!!

Kids Knives

I got K these Tovla knives a while ago, and the first time we tried to used them, he kept waving one of the knives in the air. A no go for a while! Then, last weekend, I let him use one to cut up some strawberries, and I think he actually enjoyed it. The look of pride on his face was priceless!

Toddler Masks

We’ve tried quite a few masks for Kaiden, and the ones that fit him the best came from…Old Navy! They aren’t super thick (but none of them are really!), but they don’t slide down his face, which is key.

Little Passports Subscription

My sister and BIL got K a Little Passports subscription for his 3rd birthday, and I must say, it’s pretty awesome. Every month, we get a new activity, along with stickers, a ‘toy,’ and an activity booklet. All catered to his age group. Kaiden loves opening his box every month, and I love how his creativity sparks every time. A great gift option!

Toddler Sunglasses

Kaiden hates anything that touches his face/head – sunglasses, hats, helmets, etc. BUT, when I realized it was ‘sunglasses day’ at school a few weeks ago, I bought these sunnies on Amazon because I didn’t want K to be the only one without a pair. 🙂 He’s worn them a few times afterwards but not quite a sunglasses lover yet.

Friends Reruns

Nothing better, am I right?! I wonder when I’ll be done with this show. Likely never! What’s a show that you never tire of?

Energy Leadership

I have to read the book, Energy Leadership, for my coaching program, and to be completely honest…I LOVE IT! It’s a really interesting read, and I think it’d be helpful for anyone responsible for leading teams, coaching people, leading a team (personally or professionally). Such powerful takeaways on every single page! Highly recommend this one!

Weekend Plans

We don’t have too much going on, except a play date with a good friend and her son, an ice cream party, and a visit to my sister’s place.

Hoping Vishnu doesn’t have to stay too late at the hospital. I want to have a wine and cheese night with him again!

Ok peeps, that’s all I have for today! Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

No portion of this post is sponsored.  However, affiliate links are included. There is no extra cost to you, but I do receive a small commission on anything you buy through my links.  Thank you for reading and supporting My Inner Shakti!

Written on September 11, 2020 Related:Friday Stuff, Uncategorized

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