Any plans for this weekend? Freddie and I are off to a cottage on the North Fork. The forecast looks windy, so we’ll be playing cards, reading, and he might whip up a meal. Anticipating some lazy afternoons. Wishing you a great weekend too, and here are a few interesting links I found online…
Sporting this simple ensemble to the Whitney Museum this weekend: shirt + trousers.
Have you caught The Studio with Seth Rogen? I binge-watched the first two episodes last night and found them hilarious.
New York Magazine’s lookbook is a blast — like a double dutch contest and dogs dressed for a Mets game.
This lady is raffling her cottage in Northern Ireland, and tickets are just $7! (NYTimes gift link)
How amazing is this restaurant that resembles a black-and-white illustration?
An Ethiopian-Eritrean bride speaks about the quiet strength of wedding-day braids. “‘I told my bridesmaids, everyone’s getting braided,’ she said, half-joking but completely serious. ‘No excuses. No ‘my scalp is tender.’ We’re doing this together. We’re honoring something.’” (Vogue)
Trendy sneakers available at a discount.
The weight and significance of Mother’s Day. “My therapist suggested one other piece of advice: Hold other people’s babies. I’m uncertain if she intended it as a measure of my yearning or a remedy for it, but I’ve chosen to see it as an invitation to experience life through others. To heal by absorbing the happiness of others. To exist in a collective where we share each other’s joy, pain, and longing. Why can’t I find joy in holding your baby, just for a moment?”
Toby has a blast sending out Paperless Post invites for his birthday party and watching the responses come in. While assisting him in selecting a style, I discovered these Joana Avillez designs—aren’t they fantastic?
Life-sized stitched portraits.
Oh my goodness, is this collage not stunning? Should we all gather and create collages?
Most importantly, the news:
Gaza is facing the “harshest phase” of Israel’s assaults, says UN Secretary-General António Guterres. More heartbreaking statements from UN representatives: “For nearly 80 days, Israel has impeded the entry of life-saving international aid.” “The aid currently entering is a needle in a haystack.” “The entire population of Gaza is at risk of famine.” “Visiting maternity facilities and seeing women giving birth while starving.”
The genocide in Gaza is tragic, and we must urge our government to cease the delivery of funds and weapons. But, of course, Jewish individuals ought not to be targets! No one should be harmed due to their identity — be it Jewish, Palestinian, Muslim, Israeli, LGBTQ+, etc. It’s difficult to articulate; sending love to friends and readers who encounter and fear escalating antisemitism.
Additionally, four reader reflections:
Laura J. comments on what toys your kids have played with endlessly: “One of my most clever parenting decisions: I framed a U.S. map and a world map, then hung them in our kitchen. My husband travels for work, so I cut out a picture of his head, and we would move it around. As the kids matured, we’d also highlight where family members lived or visited. We learned the state capitals as well.”
Kari speaks on houseplant crime scenes: “My friend meticulously misted her hanging terrarium and felt so proud of how it was flourishing, only to discover a full year later that it was artificial.”
Rebecca shares her favorite nonfiction books: “Solito by Javier Zamora. I am a middle-aged white woman who cares for immigrant teenagers at a community health center. This true narrative of a young unaccompanied minor, penned by a poet, is the nonfiction book I recommend most to my friends and family. During this time of unparalleled violence and hostility toward immigrants, grasping the complexities and resilience in stories of migration from Central and South America couldn’t be more vital.”
Caitlin expresses her favorites in nonfiction literature: “What an enchanting post full of remarks on why you will be CHARMED by a book regarding eels/a very particular shipwreck/quantum physics. I adore a gentle organizing endeavor, so I placed as many of these suggestions as I could into a spreadsheet for safeguarding/future library reservations, in case anyone else finds it helpful.” [Thank you so much, Caitlin!]
(Photo by Jessica Gledhill/Stocksy.)
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**Suggestions for a Relaxing and Stress-Free Weekend**
In today’s rapid-paced environment, weekends present a valuable chance to unwind, recuperate, and get ready for the upcoming week. However, without the right planning, weekends can swiftly turn just as busy as weekdays. To assist you in maximizing your leisure time, here are some practical tips for experiencing a restorative and stress-free weekend.
### 1. **Plan Ahead—but Stay Flexible**
While spontaneity has its allure, having a rough plan can help prevent wasting time or feeling overwhelmed. Think about sketching out a few core activities you’d like to tackle, such as visiting a friend, hiking, or catching up on some reading. Yet, avoid over-scheduling. Allow space for rest and unexpected opportunities.
### 2. **Disconnect from Work**
One of the most crucial steps to achieving a stress-free weekend is setting boundaries between work and personal life. Disable email notifications, refrain from checking work messages, and resist the temptation to “just complete one more task.” Grant yourself the freedom to disconnect entirely and immerse yourself in the moment.
### 3. **Emphasize Sleep and Rest**
Use the weekend to refresh, yet strive to stick to a regular sleep schedule. Oversleeping can leave you feeling lethargic, while too little sleep can raise stress levels. Aim for 7–9 hours of good quality sleep each night and consider short naps if you’re feeling worn out.
### 4. **Go Outdoors and Get Active**
Physical activity acts as a natural stress reliever. Whether it’s a casual stroll in the park, a bike ride, or a yoga session, engaging with nature and moving your body can elevate your mood and energy. Being in nature, in particular, has been proved to lessen stress and enhance mental health.
### 5. **Participate in Enjoyable Activities**
The weekend is an ideal time to indulge in hobbies and passions that bring you joy. Be it painting, gardening, cooking, or playing music, engaging in activities you cherish can be remarkably therapeutic and gratifying.
### 6. **Practice Mindfulness or Meditation**
Spending a few moments each day on mindfulness or meditation can help you stay centered and alleviate anxiety. Simple breathing exercises, guided meditations, or even mindful walking can enhance your feeling of calm and clarity.
### 7. **Connect with Friends and Family**
Spending quality time with loved ones can be a fantastic way to emotionally recharge. Whether it’s a phone call, a shared meal, or a fun outing, nurturing your relationships can offer comfort, laughter, and companionship.
### 8. **Limit Digital Time**
Excess screen time—especially on social media—can increase stress and adversely affect your mood. Aim to curtail your digital device usage and focus on experiences in the real world. Pick up a book, enjoy a board game, or simply relish a quiet moment without distractions.
### 9. **Tidy Your Space**
A cluttered space can contribute to a cluttered mind. Dedicate some time during the weekend to tidy up your environment. Even minor tasks like organizing your desk or cleaning out the refrigerator can create a sense of accomplishment and tranquility.
### 10. **Reflect and Set Goals**
Before the weekend concludes, take a moment to think about what you enjoyed and what made you feel relaxed. Establishing optimistic intentions for the forthcoming week can assist in carrying that tranquility into your daily routine.
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**Final Reflections**
A calming and stress-free weekend doesn’t necessitate an extravagant vacation or intricate plans. With a bit of intention and mindfulness, you can cultivate a weekend that nourishes your body, mind, and spirit. By prioritizing rest, joy, and connection, you’ll return to your weekly obligations feeling rejuvenated and ready to go.
