Throughout this month, I’ve noticed cool braids popping up across Brooklyn. Here’s my friend Alison sporting a double-braid ponytail at our local café. “It took a moment, cost zero, and drew a lot of compliments,” she shared with me. So stylish and effortless!
Do (or would) you ventilate your home? Essentially, it’s a German method known as lüften where you open all the windows daily to freshen up your rooms, whatever the weather. My English father does this too, and Angelina talked about raising kids in Sweden: “Even in the dead of winter, many Swedish parents place their children, bundled in their strollers, outside for naps…. If you’re unwell, your doctor might advise opening the window.”
Last evening, I attended the new Guggenheim exhibit, and with 12-year-old Anton as my fashion guide, I opted for a black lace blouse with red lipstick. Here’s the top I’m wearing, along with three other lovely pieces: gathered, collared, and short-sleeved. (Hi to adorable Anton drumming in the backdrop of these snaps!)
As the new head chef (haha) for our little group, I’m on the hunt for easy recipes that still pack a punch of flavor. I stumbled upon French Cooking for Two by Michèle Roberts at a local bookstore, and we’ve been trying her wonderfully simple meals — like, chickpeas with spinach; lentil soup; and baked pears. She also includes cultural insights — for instance, in a recipe for scrambled eggs with mushrooms, she points out, “In France, you wouldn’t be served this for breakfast but for dinner.”
What have you been exploring lately? Which sparks are catching your eye? I’d love to know. xoxo
P.S. More entertaining ideas, and what amusing books have you read lately?
(Photo of Linsey Laidlaw’s apartment tour by Alpha Smoot, styled by Kate Jordan, for Cup of Jo.)
**Four Enjoyable Activities to Enrich Your Life**
In today’s fast-paced society, it’s vital to make time for activities that offer joy and relaxation. Participating in enjoyable pursuits not only lifts your mood but also boosts overall well-being. Here are four activities that can enhance happiness in your daily life:
1. **Gardening: Cultivating Joy and Patience**
Gardening serves as a therapeutic activity that connects you with nature while nurturing life. Whether you have a spacious backyard or a compact balcony, gardening can be adjusted to fit any area. The act of planting seeds, caring for plants, and observing their growth is highly rewarding. Gardening fosters patience and mindfulness, encouraging you to slow down and enjoy the gradual development of your plants. Plus, it brings a sense of achievement when you witness the fruits of your labor, be it a blooming flower or a mature vegetable.
2. **Cooking: A Creative Culinary Adventure**
Cooking goes beyond meal preparation; it’s a chance to embrace creativity and explore flavors. Experimenting with new recipes or creating your own dishes can be a joy. Cooking engages all your senses, from the scent of spices to the vibrant hues of fresh ingredients. It can also be a social event, gathering family and friends to share a meal. Moreover, cooking at home fosters healthier eating habits and lets you control what you eat, leading to better physical health.
3. **Reading: Escaping into New Worlds**
Reading is a timeless activity that offers escape from reality and a journey into different worlds, cultures, and viewpoints. Whether you enjoy fiction, non-fiction, or poetry, there’s a book for everyone. Reading stimulates the brain, enriches vocabulary, and boosts empathy by letting you experience life through different characters’ eyes. It can be a solitary pursuit providing peace and relaxation or a shared one through book clubs and discussions.
4. **Hiking: Embracing the Great Outdoors**
Hiking combines physical exercise with the beauty of nature. It offers a break from technology and a chance to explore the natural world. Hiking trails vary in challenge, making them accessible for both novice and experienced hikers. The physical benefits of hiking include better cardiovascular health, increased strength, and improved endurance. Mentally, it alleviates stress and elevates mood, thanks to endorphin release and nature’s calming effect. Whether you’re exploring a local park or a national forest, hiking brings a sense of adventure and discovery.
Adding these activities to your schedule can lead to a more balanced and satisfying life. Whether you decide to grow a garden, craft a delicious meal, immerse yourself in a good book, or venture into the outdoors, each activity provides unique advantages that enhance your joy and well-being.
