April has long been known as the cruelest month, but according to anyone that has regularly experienced actual winter, February stinks. It may be short, but it sure is a doozie. In honor of February’s harsh realities, we are turning this traditional month of love on end by renaming it “Self Care month”. Rather than focus on romantic love, let’s focus on loving ourselves and those that support us most. So go ahead and treat yourself to some of my current faves.

Greeting Cards That Lift You Up

If you’re not familiar with Emily McDowell’s line of cards and gifts, get thee to her internet card store, pronto! Emily manages to have the absolute right card for any occasion – even for times when there is nothing good to say about said occasion. Her empathy cards are my most favorite. For self care, I suggest that you tuck one in your car’s visor or tape it to the bathroom mirror. With the voice of a friend, these cards and gift items hit all the right notes of giving and receiving. In my book, there’s no better way to take care of yourself than connecting with a friend, even if you have to be that friend to yourself.

One of a Kind Painted Ceramics

Rebekah Miles is a painter I’ve followed for years. From the moment I saw her painted book jackets, I was smitten. I love an artist who has her own inventive perspective and fully embraces it. Rebekah’s works are one of a kind and unconventional, and her painterly style features images of a faded, bygone time. Gift yourself a platter or mug, or go for broke with a large vase to host a bedside bouquet. Want to order something custom? Click here.

Deeply Hued Bedding

Since we’re focusing on the bedroom this month, and if, like me, you require some serious QT time in bed, be sure to check out Flaneur. What initially turned me on to them was the feel of their cotton – phenomenally soft, cool to the touch and not satiny. (Not for me, thanks.) But, what sends me over the edge into a full blown romance with Flaneur, are their colors. The quality of pigmentation, the depth and variety of their color palette prove to be worth leaving my basic whites far, far behind. Think saturated Farrow and Ball hues but for your bed. What’s more, Flaneur can CUSTOM dye to match any Pantone color, if you think the 60+ colors they currently offer aren’t quite right. Note, their website is still a little challenging to navigate, and they do not sell pillow cases sans sheet set, but the handy chat feature will swiftly connect you with someone fully equipped to address all of your bedding questions. If I had to choose a new set for myself, I’d be hard pressed to not go with Gondour.

Decadent Sweet Treats

Finally, for the ultimate self care gift, I present to you Lord Jones gumdrops. Laden with 20mg of CBD, these decadent candies plus an afternoon under a blankie (or cleaning, or staring off into space) are just what the doctor ordered. Don’t be shy. Using natural fruit flavors such as passion fruit and raspberry, these decadent sweets are made in small batches and are lab tested for purity and potency. These treats will not get you high but may induce relaxation and pain relief. If nothing else, you will feel well cared for. And that is something I can definitely get behind. Happy Self Care Month, Lovers!