Unpacking: February
A short but sweet month
February felt like a month where I was constantly adjusting. Adjusting my schedule, my energy, my expectations. It wasn’t exactly chaotic, but it wasn’t calm either. It was productive, social in some parts, intense in others, and very much a reminder that no matter how organized I try to be, life still moves in its own way. I went into it wanting structure and balance. What I actually got was a lesson in managing both.
I always go into February knowing it’s shorter, which means fewer days to get everything done. That automatically makes me feel like I need to move faster. Add to that the fact that the end of January felt overworked and slightly chaotic, and it wasn’t exactly the calm reset I’d hoped for.
I also knew Bobby was going to be away for a weekend. In my head, that was going to be my get ahead moment. I pictured myself being productive but balanced. Filming ahead, clearing admin, and then actually enjoying a quiet part of the weekend to myself. Maybe reading…but maybe doing absolutely nothing for once.
As much as I technically had a weekend to myself, I worked through the entire thing. I wouldn’t even call it a weekend. I cancelled a full body massage I’d booked for myself because I convinced myself I didn’t have time. That probably tells you everything.
But the upside was that I got ahead. Like really ahead! I managed to push my filming schedule forward and finally felt like I had breathing space. That one intense weekend made a real difference. Sometimes you do have to go all in for a short period to create calm for yourself later.
We also had a desert safari date night at Sonara. It’s one of those evenings that feels very Dubai in the best way. Sunset in the desert, canapés, then a beautiful three-course dinner under the stars with entertainment. It’s aesthetic, yes, but it’s also just a really nice way to disconnect from screens and work. They usually invite us every year and it’s become a bit of a tradition. It’s a good reminder that there’s more to Dubai than just work and routines…as a tourist you wouldn’t understand this, but as someone who’s settled here you will!
Valentine’s Day was simple this year and I loved it. Bobby took me for breakfast, then to the cinema to watch The Housemaid. He had no idea what it was about. He genuinely thought it was going to be something he’d fall asleep in. But he loved it. We’ve done the glam, over-the-top Valentine’s days for years. This one was toned down, easy, and finished with my favorite takeaway and another movie at home with Nico. That’s my kind of day.
As intense as that solo weekend was, I’m glad I worked through it. Being ahead of schedule has completely shifted how the rest of the month feels. I don’t feel like I’m constantly chasing deadlines, which for someone like me makes a huge difference to my mood.
I also always struggle just before my period. I want to eat more. I want to do less. I absolutely do not want to go to the gym. But I’ve learned to work with it instead of fighting it. I’ll eat an extra 200 calories around that time and I don’t punish myself for it. I don’t label it as bad. I just accept that my body needs a little more and move on. I still show up to my workouts, even if I lower expectations slightly. Listening to my body instead of battling it has changed everything.
Even though I worked through the weekend while Bobby was away, when he was back we took a self care day (my idea obviously) and I made him mask with me…so that was fun.
I’ve been really consistent this month and I’m finally seeing definition. There’s visible tone in my shoulders, which is something I’ve been working toward for a while. It’s exciting when the work starts to show.
I’m also feeling stronger in a way that feels different to before. My core is so much stronger, and it’s genuinely helping my back issues. Jasmine has been incredible. She’s structured everything so thoughtfully, focusing on mobility and form alongside strength.
My hip thrusts are currently at 45kg. I know I can go heavier, but I’m increasing slowly and deliberately. I’m not rushing it. The slow progression feels better long term. I’d rather build properly than ego-lift and regret it later.
People in the gym can be unbelievably inconsiderate. And it gets under my skin more than it probably should.
I’m not even talking about dumbbells left out…which is so annoying but also really common. I’m talking about something more specific…resistance bands tied tightly around the top of the smith machine bar…so tightly that you can’t even use it properly. I spent ten minutes untangling a band someone had knotted so aggressively it left me way more angry than it should have. Actually no…I think my level of anger was warranted.
So in my rage, I untied it, then tied it tightly around the back section of the machine in a place that’s completely unusable. So tightly that they would have to spend the same amount of time undoing it. I know it’s petty but sometimes petty works in situations like this.
Kind of loving what I bought this month. I’m in love with my new Align Felix Top, it’s the perfect fit and I’m obsessed with Lime Green now. Also this new bomber jacket is giving 90’s and I’m loving it…the Atorie oversized quilted bomber is stunning! This Navy sweater is something you guys are going to love! The Destree top is so comfy, the perfect fit and the bell sleeves are stunning! I’ve also bought my first OddMuse dress…it fits perfectly! Really good quality and I’d highly recommend it! I also finally found those brown sunglasses…love them!
I’m currently looking at a few glam evening dresses - will explain all in Unpacking March! But some super exciting stuff coming up! I’m also looking for some new jewelry which is not crazy expensive, but also really good quality.
The Miu Miu Miutine fragrance is beautiful. They sent me a Miu Miu walkman with it and I’m genuinely obsessed. There’s something nostalgic about it that I love.
The new Hourglass Illusion Luminous Glow Foundation is my current favorite. It feels like it was made for women in their 40s. It gives glow without greasiness, coverage without heaviness. It genuinely ticks every box. I did a full review and try on on my YouTube channel because I had a lot to say about it.
Still watching Traitors USA and I’m low key rooting for Rob. He somehow feels like the nicest traitor ever.
The Pitt is back and I love it. And yes, I’ve also been watching Love Island. The bullying on that show is wild. What’s more unsettling is knowing this is them toned down. It makes you wonder what people are like when cameras aren’t there.
February was intense but productive. A mix of overworking, showing up for myself in the gym, and choosing simple moments over big gestures.
It reminded me that sometimes the calm comes after the push. That listening to your body matters more than sticking to a perfect plan. And that even in a short month, you can make real progress…if you’re willing to be consistent.
Until next month…
It really does help when you share my newsletters! I’m on a mission to grow The Beauty Breakfast Club community and it would mean the world if you could share this with whoever you feel could do with joining us! 🫶🏽
If you want to read about anything specific, feel free to leave a comment - I’d love a bit of inspo from you!