Currently || Vol. 3

TRIGGER WARNING: Grief, loss, and some real talk

//

Hey friends! It’s been a while since I’ve written an update post. Let’s be honest, it’s been a while since I’ve posted anything here or on social media. I really appreciated the time stepping back from the unrealistic expectations I was putting on myself and this little blog. I also very much appreciated the kind words so many of you sent me via DM, text, and email regarding my IG Stories post about the passing of my Granny. While I try not to get too personal here, especially when it comes to daily struggles, I knew it was necessary to be honest about what turned into a nearly two month break. Grief is tough, y’all! I can 100% say that I haven’t been myself since I lost my Granny.

The positive changes have included a better focus on priorities, a lower tolerance for things and relationships that drain my energy, the opportunity to finally release myself from ties that have been in the gray for a while, and a moment to pause and really express gratitude for my life. On the flip side, I constantly find myself questioning things, anxious about my future, and feeling the heaviness of continuing my day-to-day routines while my Granny’s spirit exists in another form.

I know this will continue to be a struggle, but I also know that she would not want me missing out on opportunities, experiences, and genuine relationships, so I’m kicking myself in the butt to ease back into doing the things that I love. Hint: one of them is creating for this blog and getting to know all of you! So, let’s keep this thing rolling with some updates.

//

ICYMI//  I have a few posts that went live during my break! Check out the spring fling I had with this fabulous suit, my favorite San Francisco sweets and treats, and more highlights from my SF trip.

Weekend Plans// I’m planning to binge watch OITNB, brunch, and get to work on some Martha’s Vineyard posts. In the meantime, you can see what I was up to last week on the vineyard in my ‘MV’ highlight on Insta.

Favorite Finds// I received this bag in navy as a gift and I get stopped about it every.single.time. I wear it! You need this bag in your life. I’m also currently living for these enormous sunnies, this rose salve, and the jacket you guys loved in this post that has resurfaced at a surprising place.

Travel Plans// Next stop, PDX. Leave a comment with your recs— especially vegan/vegetarian restaurants, boba spots, and local shops. Shoot me a DM if you’re a Portland blogger!

Cool Post// The lovely folks at StyleBlueprint Memphis highlighted my professional work as part of their FACES of Memphis series. I loved the opportunity to chat about my work and a bit about the blog too. Read it here.

Memphis Life// Are you interested in seeing more Memphis-focused content here? I’m talking restaurants, events, shops, etc. Drop a comment and let me know!

//

As always, thanks so much for reading. Have a fabulous week!

About

Hi! I'm Denise, a native Memphian with a love of weekend getaways, matcha, brunch, and clean beauty. THE ELLE AESTHETIC was created to be a source of inspiration to add bits of luxury to the every day and covers travel, style, art, beauty and wellness. Thanks for reading!

Archives

Leave a Comment

15 Comments

  1. 8.22.18
    Emma said:

    Love this article gorgeous xx I can totally relate

  2. 8.22.18
    Lori said:

    “… while my Granny’s spirit exists in another form.”

    Child, that got me in the gut. 😩 it’s not easy or fast, but I love that you’re letting yourself feel your grief and taking time out to take care of you!

    • 8.22.18
      Denise said:

      Thanks Lori! 😊 I’m doing my best to tackle one day at a time and not get too stressed about forever.

  3. 8.23.18

    I’m so sorry. You sound like a very strong woman and I think you’re taking the right steps mentally to move forward and grow!

  4. 8.23.18
    Wilson said:

    Happy to have you back blogging! Sorry to learn about your Granny. I’d love to hear more about Memphis and what you get into there!

    • 8.23.18
      Denise said:

      Thanks Wilson! I’ll work on getting more Memphis content up. 💛

  5. 8.23.18
    Ruthie Ridley said:

    Wow, you are amazing. It is ok to take time out for yourself…. you look incredible love!

    • 8.23.18
      Denise said:

      Thanks Ruthie! I appreciate it. 💛

  6. 8.24.18
    Summer said:

    So sorry to hear about your Granny. <3 My Grampa passed this past winter and it was really tough. Thinking of you!

  7. 8.24.18

    I soooo need to find ways to take time to myself! 🙂 Thank you for this inspo!

    • 8.24.18
      Denise said:

      Yes, I know self care talk feels like a trend right now, but it’s so necessary!

  8. 8.24.18

    I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. But glad that you’re back with the blog and I hope you’re not too hard on yourself!

  9. 8.24.18
    Savannah said:

    Glad you’re allowing yourself time to process your grief, and glad you’re back! Yes to more Memphis content! That would be an easy day trip for us to take from Nashville.

    • 8.24.18
      Denise said:

      Thanks! Glad to see you’re in Nashville. Bookmarking your blog to check out too! 🙂

  10. 9.5.18
    Katya said:

    It is good to know that you are back after a while. This is an inspiring post to read. Your new plans are super exciting.

    StyleSprinter Blog by Katya Bychkova