August Recap & Musings

I'm riding out the Sunday blues and stress baking nostalgic cakes... how about you?

Aug 28, 2025

August is the Sunday evening of the year. For me, at least. As a teacher, the moment the month begins, a countdown starts. The first day of school ticks closer and closer until it’s time to buy fresh pencils, uncover the old dress pants, and dust off the old classroom materials. Every free afternoon feels like the largest luxury, and boy, have I been indulging in all the slow hours! I’ve quickly become a master of an hour nap.

And so, August sips away (like a bottle of wine… thank you, Taylor, for that incredible metaphor). Each day is like a slow taste of the last dregs of sweet, sweet summer. I’m able to really reflect and be grateful for all the amazing adventures we’ve had this summer. But for now, as the month closes, it’s like looking at a slow sunset. I’m grateful, tired, but also ready to start the next chapter.

August Recap

Here are some of my comings and goings this month!

I enjoyed a lovely week in Cape Cod with my in-laws. It’s been almost ten years since we traveled there, and I am so, so glad that we did! It was the quintessential East Coast vacation. Seafood, pebbly beaches, gingham, lake views, and, of course, the best time with my family-in-law, who are more like my friends!
I reunited with my adorable cat, Vincent. My parents graciously pet sit our sweet baby while we travel the world, and we’ve lovingly started calling it his “summer camp.” I even made cute “camp counselor” t-shirts this year! There’s no one I would trust our sweetie pie with, and I am so happy he is so nurtured and loved with them. Having him back in our house really does make life feel more complete here.
I’ve been struggling with my creative productivity. Yeah. It hasn’t been all sunshine and roses. In the aftermath of a whirlwind month of nonstop travels, long-distance trips, and the encroaching school year… I’ve given myself permission to not fill every day with a productivity to-do list or task to complete. I preach about gentle creativity, and yet it’s even hard for me to take my own advice. It’s been hard, because creating is always my fuel, my spark… but I’m learning to be okay with the fact that my body needs this time to rest and recharge.
I began my twelfth year of teaching music. On the other hand, I’ve been spending lots of time getting everything swingin’ for the new year. I’m so lucky. I truly love my job so much.

August Musings

Binge-ing: The Pitt

In the midst of my luxurious afternoon naps, I’ve steamrolled through The Pitt on HBO Max. Holy moly, it’s been a LONG time since I’ve binged a show so quickly. Granted, I only grasped about 65% of the dialogue in between the healthcare / ER vernacular. I kept saying to Luke that this show is “what Grey’s Anatomy wishes it were.” The storytelling is riveting, but real. Each character’s story is natural, but raw and real. Man, I absolutely ate this show up. I have such immense gratitude for healthcare workers, especially after this show.

Packing: Adult Lunchables

In the beginning days of the school year, it’s almost as if I forget how to function. How do I put a professional outfit together again? What time do I need to set my alarm? What do you mean, I have to pack my lunch? I’ve determined this month that I’d throw things back to my childhood and make an adult version of Lunchables. Snack-sized bites that give me a little smorgasbord of flavors and textures. Think carrots and cucumbers dipped in hummus or ranch, blueberries, bananas, Laughing Cow cheese with crackers, chicken salad, and yogurt with granola. I like the options, especially because my lunch is so late this year! (P.S. I need a Bento Box! Any recommendations?!)

Counting Down: The Life Of A Showgirl by Taylor Swift

Our girl is ENGAGED and she’s going to drop an album in a few weeks!? It’s heaven for all Swifties these days. I’m absolutely loving the (almost) daily dopamine hits that new Taylor content is giving me. The aesthetics of this new album are just delightful, and I’m loving that our girl is leaning into a pop dreamscape with storytelling and lyricism. RIGHT up my alley! My bestie Sara and I are definitely going to do a listening party on launch night. Anyone else here excited to plan orange/green/showgirl-themed snacks and drinks?

Stress Baking: Funfetti Cake

I don’t know what the heck it is about boxed funfetti cake, but it is a comfort I cannot compare. The first week of school, I found myself feeling overwhelmed (no doubts why!), and I turned to one of my standbys… stress baking. This was one of my coping mechanisms from back in the day, when tests and homework would pile up. I’d love to make a treat and enjoy the process of measuring, folding, tasting… just be present for a little bit. This time around, I picked up a classic funfetti situation and loved every minute. It’s not high-class, but it worked perfectly for me. And who doesn’t love funfetti?

Listening To: Good Hang with Amy Poehler

I stumbled upon a TikTok video of Amy Poehler interviewing Aubrey Plaza, and I was immediately charmed. I downloaded a bunch of her recent episodes with her Parks and Rec friends… and boy does it make me want to rewatch. Amy is an incredible host. She never fails to make me giggle. If you’re looking for a lighthearted listen, give it a whirl!

Well, friends, I think that sums up my month of August. I’d love to know all you’ve gotten in this month.

- Laura

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