Hey Everyone!
How are you? How was your February?
Mine was alright.
I think–for the first time ever–I had the “winter blues”. Like, since January. No amount of eating, talking, praying and watching Downton Abbey seemed to bring me out of it. I didn’t even bother with cognitive therapy. But, you know what did help some? Working out at the gym, surprisingly (more on that later), long showers with Ooey Gooey Cookie body wash, sex, playing in the snow, cooking, getting a regular doctor’s checkup after being a year overdue and passing with flying colors (iron deficiency is in check, WAHOOO!), scented candles, dates with people I love, reclusiveness, and tuning in to some good old 90’s music.
Have you heard that song “Intuition” by Natalie Imbruglia? I love the ending where she repeatedly goes “I feel alright”. It really makes me feel alright, when I feel less than alright. Ya know? Do you have a song that does that for you?
There was not a day that went by in February that I did not think about blogging. I always miss the process when taking time off. It’s so involving and ongoing. Sometimes it can feel like too much, but more often than not it’s really enjoyable for me. More and more it feels like…not just something I do, but what I do.
Anyway, my mood has been generally good lately. I’m happy & excited to start posting again. I’ve been making little design changes here & there to the site, over the past several months actually. Have you noticed? I’ll probably continue with the tweaking until it feels “right”.
As far as new/upcoming posts…
I tried out that brown eyebrow pencil and took photos, so I will be reviewing that soon (as well as, sharing my thoughts on the Aveda haircare products I bought some months back). I also have some new recipes/food ideas, an interesting post on personality and a few giveaways coming up for you. And, and I was in the market for a few things, so I went shopping at the mall – it’s been awhile since I’ve done any shopping there – and, of course, the thrift store. You know I had to go there. Lol I’ll post my finds.
Sweater, Jeggings & Jacket: thrift store finds • Hat & Scarf: X-mas gift • Sunglasses: Ray-bans • Boots: Nicole
Are you ready for Spring? I am, even though it’s my least favorite season. As much as I enjoy & appreciate them, I’m looking forward to the day when I can put the riding, duck, and cold weather boots in the back of the closet. Soon, hopefully.
P.S.
Thanks for all your thoughts and kind words about missing me while on sabbatical. It’s really nice to know that. I’ve missed you too and it feels good to be back! 









Nadia says
Welcome back,
Christina Marie says
Thanks Nadia!
tia says
So happy you are back. I always look forward to seeing your blog every week.
Christina Marie says
Yay, thanks Tia!
LaNeshe says
Welcome back!
Christina Marie says
Thanks LaNeshe!
PCook says
Welcome back Merely. You were missed.
Christina Marie says
Aww…thank you PCook!
Faith says
Hey welcome back! So glad you decided to come back
Christina Marie says
Hey, thanks Faith!
Ronnie says
Yayyyy! I got super excited when I saw your name in my email!!!!! Happy that you are “alright” within. You look fantastic! I’m eagerly anticipating the upcoming posts! Stay well & best regards Mz. Marie
Christina Marie says
I’m excited you’re excited, thanks Ronnie!
Aliya says
Looking good! Glad to see that you are posting again!! Can’t wait for the all the newness you have to share with us. God bless
P.S. I like the new font
Christina Marie says
Thanks Aliya! Glad you like the font too, as do I. The last one felt too thin and small.
Saniel says
I was wondering why I had not gotten any emails
Christina Marie says
Thanks for wondering.
Tonia says
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!
Welcome back, lady!
We’ve missed you!
Christina Marie says
Lol Thanks Tonia!
Jhan says
Glad you’re back!! Just last week I was thinking that it’s nearly the end of March and Marie hasn’t returned yet. Glad to see you’re back in blogosphere, Marie. Looking forward to your posts.
Christina Marie says
Thanks Jhan!
Tobi-Velicia says
Yay! So happy that you’re back!
Christina Marie says
Thanks Tobi-Velicia!
Erica says
I have always enjoyed your blog but it became even more apparent when there were no new posts. I was pleasantly surprised to have an update only email. I am also ready for the longest winter ever to go away. But I saw next week Thursday it may be 68. So there’s hope that spring and summer will arrived somewhat soon.
Christina Marie says
Aww…that really means a lot to me Erica. I’m glad you still enjoy the blog. Thanks!
Lisha says
Happy you’re back lady. Looking forward reading more!
Christina Marie says
Yay, thanks Lisha!
Crisa says
Welcome back! Missed ya for a while. I’m no longer blogging but I love your blog so I’m still following you. Have a good one!
Crisa
(formerly Chickpool)
Christina Marie says
Hey, thanks Crisa! I appreciate that you’re still following. Sorry to hear that Chickpool is no more. Can I ask why? I enjoyed your candidness.
Crisa (formerly Chickpool) says
Thanks! That actually means alot. I took a month or so off when I got promoted at work. It was so stressful at first. I literally got thrown into my new position. I didn’t have time to blog. I’d go home at night, cook, shower and go to bed. There was literally no time. My brain was fried! PLUS, it’s tax season. I had a crap load of tax returns to do for friends, family and a few here at work. As time passed, I realized I didn’t miss blogging. So I shut it down. Hubby and daughter have been trying to convince me to go on Instagram. I think I will. I’ll send you my info once I’m on. We’ll keep in touch!
Christina Marie says
Cool, I’d like that. Is your Chickpool email address still good? I have an Instagram but, I’m not currently on or using it.
Crisa says
Yes, it’s still the same. I’m on IG now. Have no idea how to use it. Lol! If you ever decide to use your Instagram again, my IG name is 1chickpool.
Christina Marie says
Ok. I was the same way initially and had a more than one person giving me pointers. Lol You’ll get the hang, I’m sure. Have fun!
Dannielle says
Welcome back! You were missed.
Christina Marie says
Thank you Dannielle! That means a lot.