The week passed me by without so much as a warning with regard to the degree of exhaustion it'd generate. Most evenings, I found myself attempting to stretch, but nearly falling asleep on the floor beside the bed instead. My mind and body were fatigued beyond comprehension, in spite of exercise/activity frequency well below my regular expenditure levels. Alas, I could not attain a well-rested state whatsoever. All signs pointed toward the mentally draining nature of my abode, ever persistent in its ability to pressure and diminish those that reside within it.
Home has never been my "happy place"; it was simply a space for sleeping, chores, exercising, and taking part in solo hobbies. I thrive not in the absence of appreciation and mutual trust. And maybe that is the reason for soft friends' perpetual presence: they are supportive in ways that those that deplete oxygen from my surroundings are not.
My afternoon pick-me-ups are often unconventional:
- Vita Guava Juice + Espresso to mimic my summer go-to of Third Wave's Espresso Lemonade
- Passionfruit Citron Yuzu Jam + a concentrated shot of Houjicha Obsidian for a zesty (and unfortunately slightly gritty) coffee-free concoction
- Lazy - and hardly authentic - Mexican Hot Chocolate crafted from Timmie's Hot Chocolate Mix, ginger-infused simple syrup, and a stick of cinnamon
In an attempt to nullify feelings of indignance, the gears within began to churn: How could I have my burger without extra labour? Detouring and waiting for a single burger takeout was dismissed immediately, for I was tired enough and wished for no more than to return home for a comprehensive cleanse. BOGO deals on UberEats were contemplated, though the final decision lay with last-minute construction of a faux patty.
Fillings included one vine tomato, cut into slices, a few tablespoons of homemade pickled radish, gai lan, and a tangy spread of Kewpie Mayo and Dijon mustard. Frankly, the combination fared better than expected.
Leftover spread was used as a dipping sauce for toasted tortillas from St. Jacobs Market and consumed alongside alcohol-free Sapporo.