Before I talk about Birkenstocks, let’s talk about what’s going on here in the ol’ Jaana brain. Just when I think I’m getting used to quarantine life, it hits me that summer is only beginning. The days are so long, and with Stevie being high risk, we are in no hurry to get out and do stuff. It doesn’t feel worth the risk when you have to rely on others around you so heavily, just to be safe. But even with the seemingly endless waking hours, and even if we don’t do a single fun god-dang thing this summer, it will still be over before we know it.

I think the bothersome part of it is this idea that time has been lost, or taken from us. It’s that sense of grief in knowing that life is short and we’re wasting it somehow. And not knowing when it will end is tough on us, even more than it is on Stevie. I’d venture to say that the Stay at Home orders have probably been really great for some families, and an opportunity to slow down and spend quality time together. I wish I could say the same for us. Too much togetherness and Stevie’s behavioral challenges with no distractions have been too much to bear some days. I feel guilty that this hasn’t been some magical time in Stevie’s childhood — but then again, maybe it has. He gets to boss us around and eat snacks all day long, and that’s gotta count for something!

outfit notes

Birkenstocks have been a staple in my wardrobe for I don’t even know how long. You just can’t beat the comfort and extra casual vibe. The only downfall of loving them is they last forever — and when they release new styles, I don’t NEED any… but I want them all!! And I do have regrets about getting rid of a red platform pair from several years ago. They were a little ahead of their time, now platforms are everywhere and want them back.

These big buckle birkenstocks are kind of a classic with a twist, so I think they’ll be around a good long while. And even with a LOT of wears over the last 2 years, they still look almost new. The rest of this outfit didn’t last past the afternoon once it warmed up. I had to change and set my legs and tummy free. A quick pants-swap into cutoffs did the trick.

• 

• 

• 

• 

allyship notes

This simple and straight forward video about systemic racism is so useful. It can even be shared with children, if you’re looking for a good starting point in discussions. I also thought this explanation about the difference between systemic and systematic was good (because I often read it wrong, and then end up saying it wrong too).

loves,
jaana