Being a working Mom of three, finding “me time” is near to impossible. Between the responsibilities of work, caring for the house and looking after the kids, finding a free moment for myself is usually brief and far between. As my kids get older, I am finding that they require Mommy’s attention less and less. If I’m not acting as their personal chauffeur to ball games, friends houses and after school activities, I find I can actually catch a minute here and there for some much deserved me time. Me time is about self care. Its about taking a breath away from the busyness of life and doing something you enjoy doing for once!
After so many years of working non stop, deciding what to do in my me time became a challenge. Instead of embracing it, I would dread it. I would become bored and spend glorious free moments searching for something to do. By the time, I had come up with a solution, I had another request for a ride or another chore that required my attention and my me time became obsolete.
What if I could tell you Me Time could be delivered to your door? There is a subscription box company who’s mission is just that! When I first learned about Sweet Reads Box, I knew I had to get my hands on one. Books, themes and time devoted to myself, it sounded absolutely perfect for me.
Sweet Reads Box is a Canadian book subscription company that delivers ME TIME to you door each month on the 5th of each month via Canada Post. . Each monthly box includes a bestselling fiction novel, an item connected to the novel’s story-line or theme, a delicious drink to set the mood, a sweet treat to enjoy while reading, and a card explaining the novel choice and how all the items connect. All the novels are hand selected by the owners and are chosen off the best sellers list. One of the reasons I love Sweet Reads Box is they are priced in Canadian dollars and feature Canadian products! With most subscriptions boxes being American, this is a HUGE deal for us Canadians! There are many different ways you can subscribe to Sweet Reads Box: 1) Month-to-month for $54.99 plus shipping, 2) 3 month subscription $49.99/month plus shipping or 3) 6 month subscription $47.99/month plus shipping.
Here’s an example of one of their amazing boxes:
Pachinko by Min Jin Lee – This is an epic historical novel following the struggles, heartache and discovery of one Korean family as they migrate to Japan when their country was at war. It follows four generations of a poor immigrant family as they navigate the struggles of life with empathy, integrity and family loyalty no matter what the cost. It is the first novel written for an adult English speaking audience about Japanese Korean culture and it gives a glimpse at the Korean- Japanese culture during the 20th century.
Candy Sushi from Sweet C Bakery -Sushi is a special treat in the novel and is eaten when the rich father, Koh Hansu, bonds with his illegitimate son, Noa. It is a delicious treat made from candy, rice krispie treats and a lot of creativity to create authentic looking sushi rolls. Don’t worry! No fish was harmed in this creation (well maybe a Swedish Fish!)
Tea Fisherman by Kirikkerland Green tea is an important part of the novel as it is one factor that plays a huge cultural role in both Korean and Japanese cultures. These fisherman are a symbol of Sunja’s father. Made from rubber, these adorable fisherman hug onto the side of your mug, fishing for your tea bag to give you the perfect brew.
Sencha Green Tea by The London Tea Company Green Tea is one of the healthiest beverages on the planet. It is loaded with antioxidants and nutrients and is a huge part of the Korean and Japanese culture. There is nothing better then reading about a cup of tea and enjoying one at the same time! Remember, don’t put your green tea bag in boiling water as it will taste bitter. Rather boil the water and let it cool awhile before adding the tea bag.
Face Masks by SuGu Beauty – Beauty is one of the central theme in this novel. It begins with Sunja’s father who was born disfigured (clef lip) and continues to be a struggle throughout Sunja’s life. These mask are from Korea and provide the perfect excuse to brighten and suffer your skin during your ME TIME.
From the moment the box arrived, I was thrilled beyond belief. I had drooled over Instagram photos and friend’s stories of past boxes and couldn’t wait to get one of my own. My box arrived just in time for the July long weekend. With the sun burning bright, my hammock set up in the backyard and an extra day of free time, I couldn’t wait to dive in. When I first saw the book choice I was unsure if it would be a book I’d like. I usually stem towards romance or murder mystery, but this novel was neither. From the first page to the first chapter I was enthralled. I fell in love with characters and desired to know their outcome. It was very difficult to put down! I loved the tea and candy sushi, as it provided a tiny taste of the culture being described in the book allowing me to fully immerse myself in the story. The Tea Fisherman and face masks were fun additions that ensure this Mommy took a little time out of her long weekend for ME TIME. Highly recommend this subscription box and believe it would make the perfect gift for anyone who needs a little ME TIME on your shopping list. Its the perfect way to carve a little time out of the day for yourself!
