something about the small things that read as care

The whitening gel was the kind of thing I almost talked myself out of. Eight dollars felt too small to take seriously. But I kept coming back to it, and after a few uses the difference was just quietly there.

Small. True.

Something about the floral-fruity ones that I usually avoid. This one was softer than I expected. Not trying too hard, which is really the only thing I ask of a perfume.

It settled into something warmer by the end of the day. I noticed that.

I started using acupuncture needles at home slowly, following along with a practitioner I trust. These came recommended for the quality of the tip. Sharp, clean, disposable.

It's been a few weeks now and the tension I carried in my jaw has changed. Which is either nothing or everything.

The sandalwood one. Neutral in the way that means anyone could wear it, but I kept picking it up anyway. There is something about a scent that doesn't announce itself, it just stays close.

Good for the kind of day that doesn't need explaining.