We’re always delighted to share discoveries and updates with this community (books! interior design! strategies for dealing with panic!). As the year winds down, I queried our group about their top picks of 2025. We are without Jannelle — who’s taking some time off after a dramatic childbirth — but she’ll return in March, and until then, we hope you enjoy these suggestions from the rest of us. As always, we’d love to hear yours!
JOANNA, founder and editor
What I watched: Freddie and I were fortunate to see multiple Broadway shows this year, and the highlight for me was Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York). The musical tells the story of two characters — a jaded, witty New Yorker and a charming, anxious Englishman — on their journey to a wedding, with lyrics that are both humorous and touching. It’s reminiscent of Fleabag with musical numbers.
What I read: The Correspondent by Virginia Evans, James by Percival Everett, and The Ten Year Affair by Erin Somers. All unique, all amazing.
What I wore: Striped turtlenecks under sweaters, inspired by my friend Liz. And my feet have been FROZEN this winter (perimenopause?) so I just picked up three pairs of transformative wool socks.
Recipes we enjoyed: Our household loves these chicken bites, which the boys eagerly consume. (I use peppers and onions in place of asparagus.) Additionally, shortbread, which is ridiculously easy and delicious with a coffee.
Things that made life easier: A collection of Sabre cutlery, I ADORE THEM SO MUCH!!! Plus, an egg boiler, which creates flawless jammy eggs for breakfast, lunches, salads, and snacks. (FYI: Whenever I eat a boiled egg, I recall this scene.)
Random things I learned: Freddie believes bananas keep longer when they’re not touching, so now I line them up on our counter. And I adore the idea of sealing a letter with a lipstick kiss, from Christina Grasso’s substack. SWAK!
KELSEY, contributing editor
What I watched: One day, I took my five-year-old to see the animated movie Hola Frida, mostly out of necessity, and surprisingly, it became one of my top films of the year! For an adult! The story follows Frida Kahlo as a child, recovering from polio and discovering art. It also addresses identity and ableism with nuance — plus, since it’s a kids’ film, it has a lively pace.
Bonus: Margot was thrilled to visit a real, live painting by Frida Kahlo afterward.
What I wore: The Ori backpack is my favorite adult backpack. It includes everything I need (such as a secure laptop compartment), and nothing I don’t (like a built-in charger I’ll never use).
Beauty stuff: I wasn’t spending lavishly this year, but I did indulge in Goe Oil, and it was worth every penny. It soothes my mild rosacea and serves as an excellent hydrating winter moisturizer. Plus, I’m still using the same tube from almost a year ago!
Recipe we enjoyed: My absolute favorite five-minute dinner. I continue to make it weekly, and we still love it.
Something that made life easier: An electric, heated floor mat. Like many, my job involves long hours at a desk, and eventually, the floor feels icy. I’ve tried space heaters, layered rugs, thick boots — but nothing compares to the unattractive rectangle I purchased last winter. It’s a simple thing, but not having icy feet all day has genuinely lifted my spirits.
New-to-me activity: I joined a grief group! It feels odd to be excited about that, but one thing my grief group has shown me is that grief is quite strange. I lost my dad in February, and at times it feels incredibly fresh and painful, so it’s comforting to be surrounded by others who understand. My group is part of The Dinner Party, a peer-support network, with “tables” across the U.S. We meet monthly to eat, chat, and sometimes share a good cry.
Random thing I learned: When my dad passed, an online stranger advised me to talk about him all the time, with anyone, not even worrying about making others uneasy. It gave me the permission I desperately needed, and helped immensely.
KAITLYN, newsletter editor
What I watched: My husband and I rapidly consumed The Pitt, a gripping medical thriller. We’re eagerly anticipating the second season next month. We’ve also been enjoying Diane Keaton’s filmography, which helps cushion the Pacific Northwest’s Big Dark’s arrival.
What I read: I devoured Jen Hatmaker’s divorce memoir Awake. I, too, was raised in an evangelical setting and value stories navigating the complexities of leaving a faith community. Most of my reading revolved around books set on islands or in forests…lol…I embrace who I am: God of the Woods, Wild Dark Shore, The Serviceberry, Whale Fall.
Beauty stuff: I use VIOLETTE_FR’s Bisou Balm daily. Nicki Sebastian’s description of it as blurred and matte intrigued me, and I was pleased to find the vibrant color is easily applied without a mirror. Low risk, high payoff.
Recipe we enjoyed: This apple snacking cake was the best recipe I tried all year. Along with fresh apples, it requires zest and juice from oranges and lemons, so our kitchen fills with a warm, spicy aroma.
Something that made life easier: We began using an Etsy tablecloth, and I adore the ruffles with the gingham. The rich brown complements everything well, too.
MAUREEN, partnerships and growth director
What I watched: Severance was phenomenal. I was captivated throughout.
What I read: The only book I completed this year (credit my toddlers) was Heart the Lover but omg I laughed and cried nonstop and adored every page.
What my kids wore: Tuffo Muddy Buddy all the way!
Beauty stuff: I purchased this perfume for myself, with a woody, fresh scent.
Recipe we enjoyed: I make a batch of granola weekly. Our family also began a casual tradition of dim-sum Sundays.
What I learned: You must seek out joy, or you’ll overlook it! We had a tough year on minimal sleep, and some days it felt impossible to see a brighter future. My New Year’s aim is to focus intently on finding “joyful moments” each day. Three examples:
1. A beach trip, where it poured but we built sandcastles regardless. 2. “I just closed the door a little.” 3. Awake for the day at 4 a.m.! But we’re smiling!
What are your highlights from 2025, helpful items, or new activities? Feel free to share. We love you and are eager to hear. xoxoxo
P.S. The easiest dessert, and what’s the most valuable advice a therapist has given you?
**Top Movies, Books, and Foods of 2025**
As we navigate 2025, the cultural scene is alive with novel cinematic gems, literary creations, and culinary innovations. Here’s a rundown of the top films, books, and cuisines captivating audiences and consumers this year.
**Top Movies of 2025**
1. **”Quantum Echoes”** – Directed by visionary filmmaker Ava Chen, this sci-fi thriller delves into the implications of time travel and parallel universes. With revolutionary visual effects and a compelling narrative, it has become a box-office sensation.
2. **”The Last Symphony”** – A heartwarming drama about a young prodigy and an aging composer, this film has struck a chord with audiences globally. Its powerful performances and moving score have made it an awards season favorite.
3. **”Guardians of the Wild”** – This animated feature, created by a renowned studio, tells the tale of endangered animals uniting to save their home. Its environmental message and impressive animation resonate with both children and adults.
**Top Books of 2025**
1. **”The Infinite Canvas” by Elara Monroe** – This speculative fiction novel imagines a future where art and technology merge, creating immersive experiences. Monroe’s imaginative storytelling and rich world-building have earned it critical acclaim.
2. **”Echoes of the Ancients” by Jaden Cross** – A historical epic spanning centuries, this book intertwines the stories of various civilizations. Its intricate plot and deep character development have captivated readers worldwide.
3. **”The Silent Revolution” by Mia Torres** – This non-fiction work examines the effects of digital activism in the 21st century. Torres’ insightful analysis and engaging writing style make it essential for those interested in social change.
**Top Foods of 2025**
1. **Plant-Based Seafood** – With sustainability at the forefront, plant-based seafood alternatives are trending. These products replicate the taste and texture of fish and shellfish, offering an eco-friendly choice for seafood lovers.
2. **Fermented Superfoods** – Fermentation is now central in the culinary world, with foods like kimchi, kefir, and tempeh lauded for their health advantages. These probiotic-rich offerings are credited for enhancing gut health and boosting immunity.
3. **Lab-Grown Meat** – With technological advancements, lab-grown meat has become more accessible and affordable. This innovation offers a sustainable substitute to traditional meat, appealing to environmentally-conscious consumers.
In 2025, the fusion of creativity, technology, and sustainability is reshaping how we consume media, literature, and food. These top films, books, and foods reflect society’s evolving tastes and values, offering a glimpse into the future of entertainment and dining.
