My Favorite Ways To Spend An Unexpectedly Free Day
Advice for maximizing those unicorn-type moments when you're without distractions and have nothing on your (immediate) to-do list.
Was anyone else particularly excited to see January finally give way to February? The news headlines were like a real life horror story and the cold was just brutal, at least here in Virginia. I’m excited to embrace February and get some fresh new projects underway. Staying busy is my favorite way to beat the wintertime blues.
On the completely opposite spectrum, though, I thought I’d dedicate today’s newsletter to all of my favorite things to do when I’m not busy! It doesn’t happen often, but I do occasionally get a random free day during the week or weekend. I almost always have something to do for work or on my personal home projects list, but every now and then I find myself without any nagging tasks hanging over my head.
Keep scrolling for a list of all the things I love to do when I have an unexpectedly free day in case you’d like some inspiration for what do with your own down time this winter season.
Oh, but before I get into my list, it did just occur to me that this may not actually happen for some of you, so I do apologize…Maybe these quiet, free days are just one of the perks of being a child-free adult? At any rate, all of my suggestions below would be made extra sweet if done with a loved one or child (well, maybe not the wine tasting…). I just wanted to address that!
My favorite ways to spend an unexpectedly free day…
If I’m being completely honest, my go-to NUMBER ONE solution for filling a free day is a couple of old 1960s movies, our couch, this faux fur blanket (totally worth the splurge!), and a really good pair of PJs, like this set that I got for Christmas. I don’t lay around often, but when the opportunity presents itself, I’m a pro at being lazy.
I love creating with my hands when I have free time, and vision boarding is one of my favorite ways to be unabashedly creative just for fun. Learn how to create your own here on my blog.
Visiting our local nursery is a favorite “free day” pastime. I don’t have space for new plants in our home, so I don’t buy anything, but I still love wandering through the garden center for inspiration and the simple act of breathing in that sweet earthy, naturally filtered air.
Piggy-backing off that last one, I also get so much out of popping into my favorite local antique stores. I’ve got next to no budget for new home décor right now, but I can still window shop.
I’ll also almost always sit down to read a good book (of course!).
I’m a big fan of testing my wine tasting skills at one of our favorite area vineyards on a true free day.
Last, but not least, one thing I always make sure that I don’t do on these types of days “off” is work. No getting on my computer. No posting to social media. No house projects unless I really, really want to (like reorganizing the bathroom linen closet, but I’m not allowed to film or photograph it for the blog or Instagram—it’s just for me).
What are your favorite ways to make the most of those elusive days to yourself? Or do they simply not exist in your realm? If that’s the case, then I hope you can make it happen. Being unattached to obligations is one of life’s greatest pleasures…
Things worth mentioning this week…
New On The Blog: I recently helped my parents update the plain leads-to-nowhere hallway on the top floor of their home using paint and wallpaper. Take the updated tour of the now-patterned functional space here.
What I’m Watching: I’ve been rewatching Frasier lately (for maybe the seventh time around!), and love all of those nostalgic laugh-out-loud moments.
What I’m Reading: Like so many of you, I’m currently glued to my copy of Onyx Storm. I’ll save my full review for another day, but I’ll be honest…I’m having trouble getting into this one! Comment and tell me why I need to keep reading (no spoilers, though, please). Next on my TBR list in case you want to chat about it with me in the comments later on, is The Idea Of You.
Noteworthy Podcast: I love listening to podcasts while I’m painting, and I’ve been doing a lot of that lately (more on those projects coming soon). I felt really empowered and energized after listening to this interview with Camille Styles all about creating the future of your dreams and good daily habits.
Favorite Recent Purchase: I’ve had the same bedroom clock for years and years, and have always struggled to read it during the day or, really, even just when the lights are on in the evening. So, I treated myself to this new black and white one. The high contrast colors make it so easy to read, no matter how bright our room is.
Looking Forward To: The Super Bowl! I’m a huge Eagles fan, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed for a win this Sunday. Somebody’s got to beat KC one of these days! P.S. I say this with love for Chiefs fans reading (my husband is among you).
A few favorite posts from the Dream Green DIY archives in case you’re new here:
Weekly editorial notes and requests…
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