This week threw me a bit off balance. I’ve just come out the other side of my son’s bout with a certain childhood virus (one I won’t name here, because honestly, it sounds as unpleasant as it is). The past few days have been a blur of playing nurse, negotiating meals where ice cream and popsicles qualify as both appetizer and main course, and loosening the reins on screen time—all while trying to keep work and meetings on track. Motherhood, in all its chaos and tenderness. :)
And with Mother’s Day approaching (and my birthday alongside it), I’ve found myself toggling between two thoughts: what to send the grandmothers before time slips away, and what my own family might have in store for this double-celebration weekend. I did tell my husband that all I want is anything my kids make for me, a spa day, (and some much-needed time alone), and maaaybe this ring.
In case you missed it, it’s officially Taurus season—and as a Taurus myself, my algorithm has been very eager to remind me. The stereotypes aren’t entirely wrong: we have a deep appreciation for beautiful things (often the kind that come with a higher price tag), but we’re just as drawn to practicality. The sweet spot, of course, is when something manages to be both—thoughtful, well-made, and actually useful in everyday life.
And because this season always sneaks up on me, I’ll be sharing a few of my favorite things—ideas that might help if you’re looking for a thoughtful gift. Whether it’s for yourself, your mom, or a friend navigating motherhood, consider it a small, curated list for this moment in the year. These are all things I personally love or are on my wish list…
Lacquer Box for jewelry and keepsakes from Madison Snider Podpirka ‘s gorgeous fine jewelry line Fewer Finer
Personalized toggle necklace — it’s simple, elegant and light enough to wear everyday (use JOYCE15)
The most exquisite hand soap — this scent is light and relaxing and makes the simple act of hand-washing feel a little more special (use JOYCE15)
Scalp brush for those much-needed decompressing moments
A cosmetic bag that opens completely flat — keeping it all organized but still cute
Blush AND contour in one compact palette
Mirror bag charm — looks good on a bag, and has a hidden stainless steel mirror tucked inside
Corrective eye patches that look as good as they feel
Melanie Masarin’s new Riviera cookbook and a bottle of Ghia for non-alcoholic moments (use JOYCE25)
Other things I’m loving that other moms may enjoy:
A very comfy bra (use JOYCELEE10)
Face-wipes to-go (I keep them in my bag, and in my travel toiletry kit)
This 3-in-1 skin essence for hydrating, toning, and redness
Sunscreen serum (melts into your skin and feels like more like skincare than sunscreen)
I also wanted to share a few simple ideas and gentle plans for the days ahead.
First up: a little crafting moment. I found some blank wooden picture frames that are just waiting for tiny hands and a bit of creativity. We have an abundance of the kids’ artwork, so I’ll let them choose what feels special to send to their grandmothers, as well as convince them to make something special for each of them. I’m also planning to enlist my husband to print a few favorite photos to tuck inside. Perfect gifts for grandparents or for your home.
Beyond that, I’m craving slow, intentional time together. Think classic games like Tic-Tac-Toe, (on a ceramic board made by my daughter), and finally arranging some spring flowers in a piece I love—a ceramic floral puck gifted to me. It’s wonderfully simple: fill the bowl with water, then place fresh stems into each opening. The result feels both effortless and beautiful.
Happy May and weekend ahead!
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