This week, I had the sensation of time and summer accelerating; the peonies are already past, the foxgloves are blooming, and the wildflowers are bursting out of the garden beds that were bare soil two years ago. Summer can sometimes feel like it evaporates; I’m trying to slow down when I can, make the BLT, go for the swim, and do the mini crossword with Ben in the morning.
My parents were here for a short visit; they are particularly good at relaxing: making peanut butter toast as a snack just because, reading the paper cover to cover, taking a walk up the road to stretch their legs. On this particular visit, we nailed the balance between doing things and doing nothing, together.
I’m sitting on the couch as I finish the newsletter. Ben is next to me, playing Zelda on his Switch. It’s a companionable situation, we’re working and talking, easy.
He just asked me, “Can hearts really break? Why do humans even call our hearts ‘hearts’?” What could I say but “There are a lot of questions, honey, but not so many answers.” He nodded and said, “It’s still important to ask the questions, though; someday maybe we’ll get an answer.” Out of the mouths of babes!
May your week be full of slow small joys whatever they are + time together and some good food, too.
This week’s Just Trust Me. Shout out to my hometown of Brattleboro, VT
A. The wildflower mix in action…
B. What a blissful idea - to bop around the Hudson Valley via independent bookstores: Hudson Valley Book Trail. P.S. I bought the tote and have really been using it - it’s a good (deep) size with comfortable straps.
C. My mom brought this amazing nail clipper with her - after using it, I smashed the add to cart button so fast.
D. Spotted: a fun book with amazing illustrations: Lots and lots of animals!
E. A pretty woodprint tablecloth! Found via Kim France, whose Substack Girls of A Certain Age, is fast becoming an autoread for me.
F. I finally gave in after years of seeing ads for these Rag and Bone “jean” shorts. Turns out they are ridiculously comfortable and make me laugh every time I see them in my closet (the ‘jeans’ are printed on a very soft, almost terrycloth-like fabric). Your mileage may vary, as always, but I say: worth a try.
G. A new to me flavor - delicious!
H. My parents reintroduced me to the joy of toast with peanut butter … and blueberry jam. I’d built a whole identity around being a raspberry jam person, and, lo and behold, that’s done now.
I. Cadbury Fruit & Nut is one of my all-time favorite pick-me-ups - it’s been out of stock at my local grocery store until this week. Blisssssssss.
J. Spotted this tissue paper at my local bookstore. A little different!
I include a few bonus finds here each week for paid subscribers as a small token of appreciation for making this newsletter possible.
I don’t need another plate of any kind (🫠 ask the racks in my basement why 🫠), but it doesn’t stop me from wanting these.
A Need Cake! card.
This 3D printed starfish was an impulse purchase, but has been a big hit in our house. It would be a cute addition to a camp care package
I always love to see everyday objects reimagined or slightly improved. This might be a good Father’s Day gift …
You are the vibe! card.
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