Someone play “End of August” by Noah Kahan…I can’t believe we are here already! I know it’s so cliche to say it feels like the summer flew by, but it feels like the summer flew by. Although fall is my favorite season, I am not quite ready to say goodbye to the long days and warm weather.

With that in mind, here were some of my absolute favorite things that I want to remember about this last full month of summer:

miscellaneous favorites:

• meeting other Substackers in person (in case you missed it, read our recap)!!

• thai iced tea

• swimming in lakes

• taking my time and not rushing

• spa days

• donating clothes I haven’t worn recently

• midnight pizza runs with friends

• attending surprise birthday parties

• missing Taylor Swift

• paying Etsy witches

• hearing the Jonas Brothers perform live again

• taking taxis instead of Ubers

products I am loving:

• some rings I bought from Thriftcon — it was my first year going to Thriftcon and I had the best time! If you enjoy thrift shopping, I highly recommend checking this event out next year.

music I am listening to on repeat:

• Lost Weekend - Phoebe Bridgers: Oh, how lovely it is to have new Phoebe Bridgers music to listen to and digest. I’ve seen some mixed reviews about the album online, but I personally love it. Some standout tracks for me include: “The Governor’s Waltz,” “Bobby,” and “As Above.” I have tickets to see her live next month, and I couldn’t be more excited!

• Chuck Timely & The Hourglass - Role Model: Another highly anticipated release that did not disappoint! Personally, I was stoked to see Role Model lean into this genre of music. The album sounds cohesive, fresh, and fun and it is the perfect album to have on repeat as we transition into fall.

• “Richard Siken” - Jensen McRae: I will always rave about Jensen and her voice and her songwriting style. She genuinely keeps getting better and better. I have been listening to this song on repeat ever since it was released!

• “August” - Jaïr Faria: I recently stumbled across this song and I am obsessed with everything about it!!! This has been the song I have been sharing with friends lately to encourage them to check out.

• “Listen When Sad” - Jonas Brothers: I love this song, actually! It sounds like the original Jonas Brothers music, and I hope they lean back into this style for their new album.

• “serena joy” - Olivia Rodrigo: No notes here — I’m obsessed with everything Miss Rodrigo does.

TV & movie favorites:

• The Odyssey: I was late to the game on watching this one in theaters, but it was just as well done as I expected it to be. The pacing was great and the movie flew by. It also made me want to go back and reread “Circe” immediately. Beautifully done all around.

• Spider-Man: Brand New Day: Marvel movies are so back! This movie also flew by, which is a compliment (I hate when movies feel like they are dragging). Tom Holland was made for this role, and Sadie Sink gave an incredible performance. It is so fun to be excited about Marvel releases again.

• The Prestige: Felt motivated to watch another Nolan film after loving The Odyssey, and this one had been on my list for awhile. This was SO compelling and I was so invested. I had no idea what to expect and the ending did not disappoint!! I would recommend this movie to anyone who enjoys magic or magicians (lol).

• Married At First Sight: This show takes the cake for my obsession of the month. I absolutely devoured the entire season and genuinely thought about the couples while waiting for new episodes to release each week. I don’t watch a ton of reality television, but this type of show is right up my alley.

• Sterling Point: This show filled the summer teen drama show-sized hole in my heart. Great writing and acting, and completely deserves all the hype it is getting.

• Camp Rock: I watched Camp Rock 3 (and was disappointed), but it inspired me to go back and watch the original. This might sound dramatic, but the original film just has some heart and emotion that the new one could not replicate.

books of the month:

• “Long Island Girls” - Gabrielle Korn: I might be biased since I grew up on Long Island in the early 2000s, but I really enjoyed this one. I’ll always love to read coming-of-age stories about friendship, too.

• My next read: The lovely inspired me to bump up “Love By The Book” by Jessica George (you can check out her review here) to the top of my TBR list! I truly adore George’s first novel, “Maame,” so I am hoping I will love her sophomore release just as much.

favorite eats/drinks:

• honestly…the endless Olive Garden breadsticks.

things I’m looking forward to in September:

YAY — a new section! Since time moves so quickly and I am sad summer is coming to an end, I wanted to include a list of some things to look forward to in the upcoming month:

• seeing Harry Styles live at MSG!

• some of my best friends’ birthdays!

• the official start of fall (my favorite season)!

pictures of the month:

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

This past Saturday, we did exactly that.

For our first (and certainly not our last!) NYC Substack Meet-Up, we gathered in Central Park under a shady oak tree near Wollman Rink.

Wait a minute.

Central Park? On a sunny, non-humid Saturday afternoon?

A day people could’ve been anywhere, doing anything, in all of Manhattan?

Bold! We know.

Successful? Yes.

You’d be surprised to hear that 25+ writers showed up, all of them now an official part of our real-life writers’ circle.

For 3 hours, we sat on grassy blankets, reading each other’s work and using our writing as a launch point to get to know one another. We brought snacks, merch, a mascot (Honey Bee Ween, pictured above), and 20 printed copies of a favorite article each of us had written.

And that was it! We didn’t create an elaborate agenda beyond reading, talking, and spending an afternoon together. As it turns out, we didn’t need one.

People came to connect, read in peace, and talk under the hot afternoon sun, with oak leaves falling around us, pens in hand, and Stevie Nicks’ voice emanating softly from a nearby speaker.

Afterward, Delaney and I debriefed and noticed something that made the afternoon feel especially special: everyone came from a different corner of the city, ranged in age from 24 to 54, and had very disparate careers and visions for what their lives as creatives in NYC could look like. We had people working in film production, studio painting, public relations, editorial writing, and more. And still, there was an immediate sense of familiarity. It was palpable.

At one point, someone began asking the other guests, “How does NYC make you feel?”

The answers varied more than expected: “Excited.” “Overwhelmed.” “Inspired.” “Lonely.” “Energized.” “Exhausted.” “Motivated.” “Connected.”

It was a pretty perfect snapshot of the New York experience. How you can feel lonely and connected, exhausted and motivated, somehow all at once.

The question, too, captured something about why the afternoon worked so well. NYC can make you feel like you’re constantly becoming someone new. It was nice to sit in a circle of people who are doing the same thing, to be reminded that everyone is figuring it out, even when their “figuring it out” looks completely different from yours.

More than anything, the meet-up reminded us that community doesn’t have to be tiring or complicated. Quite the contrary: it can be refreshing, energizing, and incredibly simple.

A few people sitting around on lawn blankets, talking about their work, their lives, what they’re reading, what they’re writing, and what they’re trying to figure out next.

Who knew this was the key to happiness?

A Spotlight on Our Writers’ Circle

We spent hours lounging in the sun, drinking Trader Joe’s seltzers, trading printed articles, and highlighting standout sections with multi-colored pens.

We wanted to share a few of our favorite quotes from the pieces writers brought:

“There is an expectation for women to grow old and quiet. To become invisible. To sink entirely into motherhood. To become totally unselfish. To wear frumpy, age appropriate clothes. I never want to be this type of woman. I want to be loud and bold. I want to wear chic clothes, and I never want the words “age appropriate” to cross my mind. I want to make people laugh and cry and feel things. I never want to be accused of being lazy. I never want to stop learning.”

• Logan, “The Woman I Want To Be”

“The future makes me forget the present. Gives me an anxiety that I can keep in check if I try. I just need to try. I need to get out of bed. I need to do things, meet people, have fun. I live in New York City, the greatest city in the world, a place of possibility and chance. I want to explore. I want to find the new and exciting in my life again. Climb the highest mountains, yell out to the sea. I just want to scream. Scream as loud as I can, telling the world that I am here and I am ready.”

• Rachello Films, “52 Days Post Graduation”

“On a chilly Tuesday night at Night Club 101 in the East Village, Avery Cochrane performed a set worthy of Madison Square Garden. As the redheaded rising star strutted across the stage, belting out hits like “Shapeshifting on a Saturday Night,” every element of a pop supernova was on display: songwriting prowess and vocal range, a dazzling cutout bodysuit, an endearing backstory, an insatiable hunger to “make it,” and gays crying in the front row.”

• Ilana, “Avery Cochrane Is Shapeshifting Into a Superstar”

“My boss thinks that my New Year’s Resolution should be to “expand my palette.” At least that is what he jokingly told me as he cut me off a piece of his medium rare steak when I ordered my filet mignon well-done. After chewing at his raw steak bit for 10 minutes with the taste of the scallop I ate for an appetizer still lingering in my mouth, I think my palette is about at the end of its rope.”

• Callie, “Eating raw meat at The Occidental”

The support and excitement after the weekend has been so encouraging to see. Sharing some of our favorite comments here:

Couldn’t make this first meet-up or wondering if there will be another one?

Don’t worry – there are definitely more to come!

We will share details for our next meet-up once finalized, but sign up here to add your contact information to our invitation list – that way we can send you the invitation directly via email or Substack next time!

As always,

Thanks for reading <3 we LOVE this special community we’re building!

<3

Daelyn & Delaney

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Sometimes I wake up in the morning in a panic, anxious that I have already wasted the day. Worried that I am running out of time. In reality, the clock reads 7:02 A.M. There is so much to do and so many texts to answer and a midtown office to commute to. The amount of items on my imaginary plate is overflowing so much that I feel behind before I have even given myself a fair chance to start. I force myself to avoid hitting snooze on my alarm, and I make my bed, trying to take pride in the fact that making my bed is one solid habit I have formed. I try to convince myself that as long as I make my bed, things are under control.

Doctors of varying specialties all tell me they can physically feel the tension I am holding in my body. I don’t know what I am supposed to do with that information. I already have completely transformed the way I breathe and I take reformer pilates classes each week and I have a paid subscription to the Calm app. I have deleted mostly all social media off my phone and work hard to keep my screen time low. I stretch my body every morning and evening and I drink water and I cut out caffeine. What else am I supposed to do? I am not sure who I am really asking at this point; I would take advice from anyone who is willing to offer it.

I am recently coming to terms with the fact that the changes I need to make may be well beyond making my bed each morning. I look in my slightly dusty mirror I have been promising myself I would clean each night, and force myself to face the facts. I am deeply unsatisfied with my job — and I have been for years. I really can’t tell if I am tired of Manhattan or just tired of my version of it. Either truth seems exhausting. Two potential huge changes I need to make, two changes that seem impossible to completely transform overnight. Where do I start?

I know I need to bring myself to do something about it, and soon, but I truly don’t know where to start. I am realizing I am itching to make changes that are so incomprehensible that I don’t know where I would even begin. All I can focus on is the fact that I have to finish cleaning my dishes in the sink and I have 18 unread text messages. There are more immediate matters to attend to first, or at least it always seems that way. After I do the dishes, my life will change, I convince myself. Tomorrow, I say. After this busy weekend, I tell myself. I tell myself whatever I need to hear to convince myself it will all be different tomorrow.

I am not sure if anyone else remotely feels this way or if I am experiencing what people would call a “quarter-life crisis.” That phrase is used so often and so jokingly that it trivializes how I have been feeling. I try to force myself to believe I don’t have to put a label on the fact that I am trying to change my life, but it’s hard because we are conditioned to put labels on everything. Things can just be how they are. I will just do what I have to do. I will answer my text messages and I will do my dishes. Something is better than nothing — I force myself to get up. Each night I somehow force myself to get up and make my way towards the pile of dishes I have been ignoring. I have to start somewhere. I will start with the dishes. I will be proud of myself for that. The rest will come.

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

And just like that, July is over?! I can’t dwell too much on the passage of time or I will spiral into an existential crisis, but somehow, here we are, closer to fall than spring and I am closer to 30 than 29. Thankfully, July was filled with a lot of quality time with my loved ones, and there were a lot of special moments to celebrate. With that in mind…

Here we go! My July favorites:

miscellaneous favorites:

• wearing no makeup + red lipstick

• going to bed early + waking up early

• McDonald’s pancakes

• seeing Noah Kahan live with my sister!

• ordering lemonade at any and every restaurant

• painting

• taking sick days from work as a form of self-care

• outfit repeating

• writing handwritten birthday cards

• baby tees

• taking reformer pilates classes before work (still)

• yuzu lemonade

products I am loving:

• greeting cards from Greenwich Letterpress: This place is truly one of my favorite stores on the planet, and they have the best selection of greeting cards, stickers, and stationary. I would add this shop to your must-see list in New York City, but you can get most of their products online, too.

music I am listening to on repeat:

• Music, Fashion, Film - Charli xcx: Ugh, this album is so fun and exactly what I was hoping to hear from Charli. Some standouts to me include “2007” and “No One Lasts Forever featuring David Cronenberg,” but I thought this was a fun, just-the-right-amount-of-cohesive album from Charli.

• “Baby Now That I Found You” - Ella Bright + Niall Horan: An Off Campus and Niall collaboration?! I couldn’t ask for more. I love how their voices blend together. This song is so sweet.

• “Afflictions” - Gracie Abrams: My honest opinion of the new Gracie album is that I (sadly) do not love it. Personally, I would love to see Gracie explore different production techniques a bit more and I would also love to see her get hyper-specific with her songwriting. This song in particular was a standout for me — the lyrics felt genuine and visceral.

• “GODSPEED” - Camila Cabello

• “oh well” - Ariana Grande

TV & movie favorites:

• Elle: This show was so cute! I adore Legally Blonde and I love that the universe was expanded. I enjoyed this overall, and I also think they perfectly casted Elle!

• The Invite: This movie pleasantly surprised me in so many ways. I walked into the theater with no expectations, and I left with a full heart. I laughed a ton, and the ending really struck a chord with me. One of my favorites of the year!

• Hadestown: The Musical: I love this musical so very much, and it was such a cool opportunity to see the original cast perform it onscreen. Eva and Reeve have chemistry that is unmatched and tangible. I highly recommend this musical (both on stage and on screen!).

• Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender: The animated version of Avatar: The Last Airbender will always have a special place in my heart — it is truly one of the best television shows I have ever watched. When my friends and I found out that the new movie was only being released in 2 movie theaters for 5 days only, we bought tickets to an early morning screening to sit in the third row. It was absolutely worth it.

• Girls: I am only one season into this show for the first time, but I’m enjoying it so far. I’m embracing the chaos and reminiscing about life in 2012.

• By the way…my thoughts on The Odyssey are coming next month instead ;)

books of the month:

• “Into the Blue” - Emma Brodie: Ohhhhhh MAN, I devoured this one! It has been quite some time since a book brought tears to my eyes, but the ending of this one had me welling up. This story is so emotionally charged, and I think this book is the perfect depiction of what showing up for another person looks like.

• “Famesick” - Lena Dunham: I have to admit I am just now watching Girls for the first time, but I really enjoyed this nonetheless. It’s no secret Lena is a super talented writer, and I think she wrote a memoir that is so raw and honest and real.

favorite eats/drinks:

• Nando’s: I had the opportunity to have lunch at Nando’s in Virginia a few weeks ago — and I was stoked beyond belief. I make a Nando’s stop each and every time I am in London, but there are only a few locations in the U.S., so I was delighted to discover one of those locations was only 20 minutes away from my friend’s wedding venue.

• Ellen’s Stardust Diner: No explanation needed for this one, right? Yes, it’s a tourist trap, but yes, I have the time of my life there each time I go.

pictures of the month:

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Also, in case you missed it — and I are hosting a NYC Substack Meetup in a few weeks! Check out the details and RSVP link…hope to see you there!

Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

New York City is gorgeous and overwhelming and magical and exhausting all at the same time. It is fun and inspiring at times, and intimidating at others. People who live here are well aware of these facts and embrace them every single day.

When and I discovered that we had been living in New York for such different amounts of time — her having just moved here a year ago from the south, and me going on my 5th official year here but growing up in the area — we had the fun idea to compare our thoughts to see just how different (or similar) they may be.

We wanted to take some time to think about what living in New York is really like and talk about our feelings on New Yorkers, the cost of living, and our overall thoughts about calling this city home.

Let’s get into it!

What do you think of New Yorkers?

Dae: I was born and raised in New York, so my answer might be slightly biased. I think New Yorkers are conditioned to mind their business, but in my opinion, people here are much friendlier than stereotypes give them credit for. New Yorkers may not outwardly start a conversation with you, but any time I have started a conversation with a stranger, asked for directions or even needed help in an emergency health situation, I have been met with nothing but helpfulness and kindness. There is a sense of community here that may be understated, but it shines through when it matters most.

Taylor: In my experience, New Yorkers have been unexpectedly kind. As long as you aren’t holding up the flow of foot traffic or standing in the middle of a bike lane, New Yorkers aren’t going to go out of their way to tell you to “get outta here!” I was on the subway last month feeling a bit insecure about my outfit (I have been trying to go out of my comfort zone and wear more sleeveless shirts), then out of nowhere a woman pointed at me up and down and said, “I love your outfit. You look adorable.” A similar thing happened at a restaurant: my husband and I were discussing appetizers when a man leaned over from the table next to us and enthusiastically gave his recommendations. Overall, New Yorkers mind their own business but will show up when it matters.

Do you find yourself lost in concrete and/or disgusted by the lack of cleanliness?

Dae: Maybe neither, to be honest. I have lived in the city long enough to simply accept the following facts: some streets will smell like garbage in the summertime, I will likely see a rat on the subway platform past 10:00PM, and you will be pressed up against the bodies of sweaty strangers on the 1 train during your morning commute. Once you accept them, it just becomes part of life. You also make some lifestyle adjustments to account for the dirtiness of the city, too, like changing clothes the second you get home or wearing shorts under your dress so you don’t have to sit directly on the subway seat. It’s something I no longer think much about.

I also don’t get lost in the concrete too much anymore, either. One of my favorite things to do when I am in Times Square is stop and look around at the faces of tourists who may be taking in the view for the first time. It’s wild to think that I am no longer the person taking in the view for the first time. There’s something really cool in recognizing that fact – that this city truly has become my home to the point where I am not phased by much. It’s just another day in the life, which I feel super grateful for.

Taylor: This may be because I am a brand new, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed resident, but the “concrete jungle” aspect of the city is not overwhelming for me. I grew up in a small, southern town, so I don’t think I feel the oversaturation of grey and glass that someone who has always lived here may experience. On the other hand, I knew NYC was going to be dirty, but I don’t think I understood just how dirty until I moved here. The amount of dog waste I dodge on a daily basis is impressive. And it is always trash day in one neighborhood or another, so circumventing piles of garbage is practically a sport for city dwellers. It isn’t a deal-breaker, though. You just make sure you leave your shoes at the door. Good vibes and clean feet only!

How do you manage the high costs of living?

Dae: In my opinion, when you decide to live in New York City, you very quickly learn what your priorities are and what matters to you. Are you someone who values going to live shows or trying different restaurants? How much do certain experiences mean to you? What subscriptions are absolutely necessary/how often do you use them/which ones can you cancel? You simply cannot do it all, so you learn to be intentional and mindful pretty quickly. There’s a balance to everything – there have been plenty of times I have gone to an event but ate dinner at home beforehand and only drank water once I arrived. Focusing on your priorities while staying within your budget helps you find what I deem to be a healthy balance. Also, setting rules and boundaries (and again, a strict budget!) has been very beneficial for me. For example, I have a rule that I can only take an Uber under certain conditions, and there are some things I just refuse to spend money on.

Taylor: There was a huge increase in the costs of living moving from North Carolina to NYC. Though I was prepared for the change in overall prices of rent and goods, what I didn’t expect to hit so hard were the federal income taxes in addition to the local income taxes. Seeing a chunk of my paycheck disappear into the government ether was like a smack in the face. But everything good is worth working for, so to afford the conveniences and opportunities of city life, my husband and I keep a strict budget (e.g., meal prepping, DIY manicures, a set threshold for non-mandatory expenses), so that we can explore and indulge on the weekends. I think living in NYC epitomizes the saying “You can’t have your cake and eat it, too,” but the cake is gorgeous so it’s all good!

Do you see yourself here long-term?

Dae: I wish I knew! I love New York more than anything, and I know it is someplace I will always come back to. But lately, I have been craving a slower and calmer lifestyle. You can definitely find slowness and calmness here, but you have to work very hard to curate it. I don’t see myself leaving anytime soon, but we’ll see what happens in the future – anything could happen! All I know is I will forever feel grateful that I spent my twenties here. Life has felt like a coming-of-age film in the best way.

Taylor: I really do! New York City was always the dream. Speaking on behalf of the little girl inside me who remembers when her tiny town got its first grocery store, it is crazy to think of living anywhere other than smack in the middle of what is one of the most important cultural hubs in the world. That being said, people change over time. I am certainly not the same person now as I was five years ago, so who is to say that I may tire of the hustle and bustle. Every day is different. A single block doesn’t have the same patrons for too long. For now, though, I am honored to experience the seasons of my life as the city experiences its own in parallel.

What is one thing you wish you knew about living in NYC?

Dae: This is possibly going to sound silly and/or obvious, but before I lived here, I wish I knew how tempting it would be to say yes to everything. You will have to balance and be intentional here just as much as you would anywhere else. It is just as important to stay in some nights and enjoy your rent as it is to have the type of spontaneous nights where you sing karaoke until 2:00 A.M. I also wish I knew that it will take some time to accept this fact – it’s called “the city that never sleeps” for a reason; there is quite literally always something to do and you have to make your peace with not being able to do it all.

Taylor: It is easy to get caught up in the magic of new experiences and lose sight of your spending habits. Drinks here and there add up, especially when the average cocktail costs $16. (I’m surprised there isn’t a separate charge for a garnish, yet.) You have to be thoughtful about what you invest your money in and choose the experiences that matter the most to you. But, hey, you live here now! If you can’t experience something one month, there is always the next!

Rapid Fire Round:

Subway or bus?

• Dae: Bus – I love to take the bus whenever I can!

• Taylor: Subway

Sit down or take out?

• Dae: sit-down, but take out if you’re going to eat in the park

• Taylor: Sit-down

Favorite neighborhood?

• Dae: Upper West Side

• Taylor: UES (I’m biased)

Favorite bar?

• Dae: Tiki Chick!!!! (themed cocktails + $5 chicken sandwiches)

• Taylor: Somebody’s Darling

Favorite cafe?

• Dae: Chaotic Good

• Taylor: Michaeli Bakery

Go-to meal or drink?

• Dae: pad see ew / iced matcha with almond milk

• Taylor: Dumplings and something sparkling

Favorite subway line?

• Dae: 1

• Taylor: Q (again, biased)

Favorite season?

• Dae: early fall

• Taylor: Winter; I love my layers

Favorite park or section of the park?

• Dae: Central Park (I love anywhere in Sheep Meadow or above, tbh)

• Taylor: Onassis Reservoir (for running) or The Great Lawn (for picnicking)

Favorite New York-based show or movie?

• Dae: Friends (I grew up loving it) or How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days

• Taylor: You’ve Got Mail

  ---

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This one’s a joint post, because myself and are hosting an outdoor Substack hangout, and you need to be there <3

NYC SUBSTACK MEETUP — Saturday, August 15th, Central Park

If you’re a writer here, this is your sign to actually meet the people you’ve been writing next to.

Sometimes Substack starts to feel like you’re only reading your own world. You publish, you check your own Notes page, you refresh, you do it again tomorrow. It can get tricky to find time to read allll the lovely pieces everybody is writing. We want to fix that — for one afternoon, in the park, in person.

Here are the deets: Saturday, August 15th, 2:00 PM, Central Park. Bring 20 printed copies of a piece you’re proud of and trade it with other writers. Bring a blanket. We’ve got snacks. It’s all free. That’s it!

Spots are going. 50 spots as of right now. The exact location drops via text the morning of, rain date is 8/16 if the weather doesn’t cooperate — but the availability is what’s limited, not the date :)

So don’t sit on this one. Print your pages, grab a blanket, and come find out who else is writing in this city.

RSVP HERE

See you there — Delaney + Daelyn 💗🫶☀️

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When I’m feeling this way, though, it never takes long to re-ground myself and remind myself how much I love everything about this city and how it inspires and revitalizes me. It usually only takes a quick trip outside of the walls of my apartment to remember why I fell in love with the city so long ago.

I’ve compiled a list of the most random things that at the end of the day, never fail to remind me how special New York City really is. The list is constantly growing, but some things in particular include:

AMC Lincoln Square

This movie theater is one of my favorite places in the city. Whether you are an avid movie-goer or not, this theater feels like magic (like Nicole Kidman says). The interior of the theater is so unique and classic, and I love the way I feel leaving the theater.

when MTA subway conductors showcase their personalities

The subway can be an equally mundane and interesting place. More often than not, my time on the subway is mindless — simply a routine morning commute or an easy way to get from point A to B. However, every once in awhile, the subway conductor will make jokes or add a little flair of personality into the banal announcements of each station. Every time this happens, it brings such a smile to my face and makes my subway ride better and memorable.

all the random events in the parks

The look-alike contests. The concerts. The parades. The endless picnics and miscellaneous meetups. Last week, my roommate showed me pictures of a medieval sword fighting event she stumbled across in the park, and it really reminded me that this city is full of millions of people with specific, niche interests. You truly never know what you’re going to come across.

the fact that no matter what time of night it is, something is open and somewhere is crowded

Mostly any other place I’ve been to, the bar closes at 11:00 P.M and there’s pretty much nothing else to do. In New York City, you can rent a private karaoke room until 3:30 A.M on a Tuesday night. This fact is truly something I take for granted most times until it is 2:00 AM and I am craving pizza and have a dozen options to choose from. It can almost make the city feel magical, in some ways. The possibilities are endless.

how united the city felt this summer during the NBA Championship

The feeling of pride and unity this past June was unlike any feeling I’ve experienced while living in the city. Everyone you walked past on the street was wearing some sort of Knicks merch and would smile to each other as they passed by. The subway conductors would make comments about how we’re the home of the New York Knicks. How it is New York or nowhere. There definitely was a silent buzzing wherever you went the last few weeks, and it made it easy to remember why this city is so phenomenal.

all the times I have randomly stumbled upon my favorite celebrity

Somehow, there have been a few times I have had good enough luck where I have looked over my shoulder and one of my favorite celebrities was walking next to me. So casual and unbothered, wearing headphones or enjoying a beer. It was just as cool every single time, and I had to remind myself that this doesn’t happen everywhere.

the amount of live music venues

As an avid live music fan, I am always shocked at the amount of cool venues there are hidden throughout the city. Ranging from the tiniest spot in the back of a bar in Queens to Madison Square Garden, there is no better feeling than experiencing a concert in New York City.

the first sunny Saturday of spring

There is truly nothing like the first sunny Saturday in the springtime after a cold and freezing winter. Everyone is out on the streets wearing a combination of coats and sunglasses. The energy is electric and hopeful, and it feels like anything could happen. Because anything could happen. My favorite thing to do on the first sunny Saturday of the year is go to a park without headphones, journal and people watch as the whole city defrosts and comes alive again.

overhearing people’s conversations on the subways

I have already written and confessed how I wish it was more normalized to talk to strangers on the subway. Because of this, I always end up naturally eavesdropping a bit when I have a long commute on the train. I love to overhear strangers connecting over their shared love of a book, a meet-cute happening in real-time, or just 2 people chatting who never would have otherwise crossed paths if they were not on the same D train at the same time. It brings me immense joy to hear strangers connecting.

the contagious energy of people chasing their dreams

Pretty often, I will stumble across a man studying on the train, a girl in a pantsuit running through presentation notes, or a boy passionately sketching in his notebook. Whenever I see these people, it reminds me that New York is full of people working hard to reach their goals and make their dreams a reality. It inspires me every single time, and it makes me want to work hard to reach my goals, too.

As mentioned above, my list of things that remind me how much I love this city is always growing. I’m sure I am missing a ton of things from this list as well, but the bottom line is this — there really is no place like New York.

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

Summer is here!!!! The sun is setting past 8:00 P.M.!!! I’m not even upset about the 100 degree heat wave in New York since I am just so happy it’s summer and warm and sunny!!!!

For the most part, June was a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle, and I’m grateful for that, too. Let’s get into it — here are some of my favorite things of the month:

miscellaneous favorites:

• wearing headbands

• blue & yellow color combinations

• celebrating 500 subscribers with an ice cream cake

• the Knicks winning the NBA Championship!

• watching the World Cup

• listening to my body (this may seem obvious, but it deserves to be included)

• trying reformer pilates!!!

• the sun setting at 8:30 PM

• the Hannah Montana Colourpop collab

• wearing my glasses everywhere instead of contacts

• relying on consistency instead of motivation

• calling instead of texting

products I am loving:

• JVN Air Dry Cream: As a girl who is learning to navigate and style her naturally frizzy, wavy hair, this product is absolutely unmatched. My friend who has the most gorgeous curly hair recommended it to me and I’ve been hooked ever since. I scrunch a small amount into my damp hair, and I’m always pleasantly surprised with the curls my hair dries with.

• this polka dot skirt set from Mango: I love polka dots, two-piece skirt sets, and a red and pink color combo. I was elated to stumble across this set in Mango a few weeks back. It is truly so comfortable and I feel so good wearing it!

music I am listening to on repeat:

• you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love - Olivia Rodrigo: Well, she’s done it again, folks! Y’all already know I believe Olivia is one of the best pop artists of her generation. Her third album did not disappoint (and I feel validated because my musically-inclined boyfriend was telling me all the production choices she made that he liked and all the songs he had stuck in his head). Some personal standouts for me include: “stupid song,” “maggots for brains” and “purple.”

• “Lost Boys” - Phoebe Bridgers

• “Hide and Seek” - Imogen Heap

• “June Gloom” - Camila Cabello (this song is so underrated)

• “FIRE!” - Dijon

• Nervous System Regulating Music (just search for any playlist — trust me, it’s worth it)

TV & movie favorites:

• Toy Story 5: I audibly sobbed so much during Toy Story 4 that my mom still jokes with me about it, so naturally, I was nervous about how I would react to watching the latest installment. I personally thought this was super well done, and I loved how they brought in technology as the villain. And yes, I did slightly sob again.

• Girls Like Girls: I’m obsessed with the fact that this film originally started out as a music video for the Hayley Kiyoko song. It felt like a slice of life film, and those are always my favorite.

• Not Suitable For Work: Sitcoms are back, baby! And more specifically, Mindy Kaling sitcoms are back! This show was such a fun watch, and it gave me a good chuckle when I discovered their apartments were in Murray Hill. Hopefully this gets renewed for a second season — I absolutely adored it!

• Every Year After: I’ll be honest — I included this here since I binged the show while I was feeling sick, but I wouldn’t exactly say I loved it. They made some pretty significant changes from what I remembered in the book. I know I shouldn’t compare, but I just love Off Campus and The Summer I Turned Pretty so much more. This show didn’t have the same rewatch value, in my opinion! I also am confused why they didn’t name the show the same title as the book. Regardless, this was a fun enough watch for the summertime.

books of the month:

• “Phoebe Berman’s Gonna Lose It” - Brooke Averick: I am Brooke’s #1 fan (my best friend bought me a cameo from her for Christmas in 2020). I thought this was the perfect debut from Brooke. Phoebe and her friends were characters you root for and also want to hang out with. This was the best book to read to officially kick off summer. I am so excited for the movie adaptation, too!

• “Yesteryear” - Caro Claire Burke: I know people have mixed reviews on this book, but man, almost a month later and I cannot stop thinking about it. I truly had a hard time predicting what the twist would be, so I was completely caught off-guard when the truth was revealed. In my opinion, a good book makes you think afterwards and makes you run to tell people about it. By those standards, this was an amazing book. However, the more time that passes, the more I notice and think about some major plot holes. I think I would overall still recommend this — people seem to either love it or hate it.

• “Lost Lambs” - Madeline Cash: I went into this book knowing next-to-no information, and I would recommend everyone does the same. This book was unpredictable, quirky, and had you rooting for the Flynn family. Highly recommend!

favorite eats/drinks:

• Lenwich: I’m convinced Lenwich has the best chicken caesar wrap out there. I have tried quite a few at this point, but nothing has come close to this one.

pictures of the month:

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

In my mind, it’s an early autumn night but it’s surprisingly chillier than I expected. I already know my hoodie will do little to keep me warm, but I can’t bring myself to care in the slightest. He’ll pick me up in his parents’ minivan, which he will joke is lame but I will secretly think is the coolest thing ever. I don’t have my license yet.

I get in the car and I am awkward in a cute way and not in the way I usually feel I am. I feel empowered by the endless possibilities of where this night could be headed.

We drive down roads I say I could navigate in my sleep, but the reality is that I will never pay as much attention to this small suburban town as I will one day wish I did.

I convince him to listen to the latest song I have been obsessed with.

We let the song speak for itself. He goes to comment on it while the music is playing, and I make him restart the song each time he says a word. I want to soak in the stillness of this moment, of sharing something so special to me with someone I haven’t been able to stop thinking about.

I don’t know if he thinks about me and I pretend I’m okay with not knowing.

“Story of My Life” blasts through the speakers, and his attempt to sing along will make my heart swell. I am either young enough or still hopeful enough to be impressed by anything he does. Maybe the perfect mix of both.

We grab cherry-flavored Slurpees from the nearest 7-11, and we sit in the nearly-empty parking lot. His face glows the lightest shade of red, illuminated by the flashing neon sign. I point it out, and he laughs, and my heart hums with a feeling I can’t quite name. We talk and laugh and talk and laugh and talk and laugh until my ribs ache and I feel like I am floating.

The time faintly glows through the small clock on his dashboard —it’s way past midnight by the time we both realize it. I’m laughing at how unserious it all really is. This night, this boy, being seventeen on a random Wednesday in a suburban town.

I know I could fall in love with him if he’d let me. If he’d show me his favorite song too, if he’d let me in even just a little bit more. He never does, but I’m seventeen, so that is okay, and he is still enough. I don’t know to expect more.

He will drive me home because we have school in the morning, a homeroom full of people we will never think about again once graduation comes in June. He’ll take the backroads, and the streets are so quiet I can hear the sound of my hitched breathing as we get closer to my house.

The silence is deafening and it fills my stomach with a feeling I am too naive to diagnose as anxiety. Or maybe it’s anticipation. I can’t be sure. He won’t kiss me but his eyes will trail down to my lips for the slightest of seconds as I go to open the car door, a moment so quick that I would have missed it if I had blinked. I thank him for something I can’t recall — for driving, for hanging out, the Slurpee. It’s all a blur and my heart is beating out of my chest. I’ll spend the next week wondering if I made up the look on his face, if I was hallucinating the way he smiled at me. I will replay it over and over in my mind until it’s all I can see.

I walk inside and accidentally slam the front door way too loudly. There’s no way I haven’t woken my family up. I’ll crawl into bed and scribble all the details I can remember into the same journal I have been attempting to keep for years. I write as much as I can down as quickly as I can — maybe I am equally terrified of both remembering and forgetting these details. These feelings.

The adrenaline coursing through me should be bottled and studied and sold on every street corner. I’m seventeen and electric. I’m exhilarated and terrified.

I have no choice but to write it all down. What if I never feel this way again?

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

When I am listening to a song for the first time, I am usually most excited to hear the bridge. In my opinion, a strong, powerful bridge can completely transform a song from good to great in under a minute. Sometimes the bridge of a song is special because of the lyrics, but mostly, for me, a bridge really strikes a chord when it’s powerful. When it makes you turn up the volume in your car or makes you subconsciously start nodding your head. When you really feel it in your bones. In some cases, a bridge with repetitive lyrics will hit the absolute hardest, with the emotions building up throughout. So many songs get the bridge just right every single time.

Here are some of, in my humble opinion, the most powerful bridges of all time, whether it was due to their emotion, lyricism, or repetition. I won’t include their actual lyrics here (partially because this article would be horribly long), but also because if you don’t know the bridges of these songs, I strongly encourage you to listen to them and see how they make you feel. In fact, I made a playlist of all the songs I mention here so you can listen to them in one swoop:

• “Sun Bleached Flies” -Ethel Cain

• Happier Than Ever - Billie Eilish (although I technically don’t think there is a “bridge” in this song, it is so powerful that it needed to make the list)

• “drivers license” - Olivia Rodrigo

• “Ribs” - Lorde

• “Not Strong Enough” - boygenius

• “stupid song” - Olivia Rodrigo (my newest addition and the song that inspired this post!)

• “We Hug Now” - Sydney Rose

• “Somebody Else” - The 1975

• “Teenage Dream” - Katy Perry

• “Sk8er Boi” - Avril Lavigne

• “Praying” - Kesha

• “All These Things That I’ve Done” - The Killers

• “Sign of the Times” - Harry Styles

And of course, miss Taylor Swift herself is known for her particularly strong and powerful bridges. She effortlessly paints a picture with her lyrics, and usually evokes a specific emotion (sometimes even a different feeling than the rest of the song). Taylor and her bridges deserve their own highlight section. In no particular order, here are some of my favorites:

• “my tears ricochet”

• “Enchanted”

• “right where you left me”

• “Last Kiss”

• “The Archer”

• “Out Of The Woods”

• “The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived”

• “Cruel Summer”

• “Long Live”

• “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)”

• “Holy Ground”

I’m adding the playlist here as well — hope you enjoy what I consider to be some of the best bridges of all time!

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

It’s no secret that I love to watch movies — I am constantly talking about how obsessed I am with my AMC A-List pass to anyone who will listen (you can see up to 4 movies a week!).

A few months ago, shared a list of her six-star movies on Letterboxd, and ever since then, I have been trying to nail down what my own list of top movies would include. The actual Letterboxd app does not let you rate a movie more than five stars, but I wanted to take some time to think about movies that are near-perfect to me and ones I would rate much higher than the highest five stars.

In terms of my criteria, I am really rating these movies on how much they made me feel. If the movie made me cry, if I thought about it for days after I watched it, or if I instantly had the urge to watch it again, it will usually earn a solid six stars from me. Also, sometimes, if a movie really just made me feel good, I will give it six stars as well.

In no particular order (except maybe for The Princess Diaries 2 being number 1), here is the list of my all-time favorite films:

The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)

I have no shame in saying this is my favorite movie of all time. I feel so extremely passionate about this movie that I have a note in my phone with a running list of why it is so iconic (there are currently 14 reasons). I also made a PowerPoint about it for a themed party a few years ago. The star-studded cast, the soundtrack, the enemies-to-lovers trope, the message that a young woman can lead a country without a man by her side…I could clearly go on about this one for awhile. The first movie is a classic, but the second one has always just struck a chord for me.

The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)

The entire Hunger Games franchise will always be close to my heart, but something about this film in particular really gets me. This is my favorite book of the series as well, and I think this movie is a close-to-perfect adaptation. Josh Hutcherson and Jennifer Lawrence embody Peeta and Katniss in the absolute best way. Peeta Mellark is also my favorite fictional character of all time.

Knives Out (2019)

I have seen this movie a handful of times, and it is just as addicting every single time. I love an ensemble cast and an intense murder mystery where every person is a potential suspect. All of the movies in this franchise are fun, but the original is genuinely so clever and entertaining. Also, Chris Evans’ sweater went viral for a reason.

Challengers (2024)

I left the movie theater absolutely BUZZING after watching this for the first time! I would like to think this is how we should always feel when leaving the movie theater — energized and exhilarated and wanting to scream about what we just watched to anyone who will listen. I talked about this movie for days after I watched it for the first time and I saw it again a few days later. It’s just a really well-done and well-scored film. I thought Zendaya, Mike Faist, and Josh O’Connor really nailed their performances as well. An instant classic for me.

Project Hail Mary (2026)

Watching this movie in theaters was genuinely one of the best experiences I have had at the theater. It’s a story of humanity and friendship that touched me more than I expected it to since I went into watching it with no knowledge about the plot. I loved the movie so much I went back and read the book after, which I rarely do. Yes, it’s a long movie, but it’s worth every second. I also believe there are only very few actors who could have carried the movie as well as Ryan Gosling did.

Past Lives (2023)

Sometimes I can’t even think about this movie too much without spiraling into some sort of existential crisis about our choices and all the lives we never get to live. This is a movie I have only watched once, but it so deeply stuck with me and I instantly deemed it one of my favorites. This movie is very raw and real and human, and in a lot of ways, romantic. I recommend this movie to absolutely everyone.

The Big Sick (2017)

I believe this may be one of the most underrated romance movies of all time. It is also based on the real-life relationship between Kumail Nanjiani and his wife, and I adore everything about it. This movie is charming and sweet and just the right amount of funny.

Wicked (2024)

I apologize for the version of myself I was when this movie was first released. I watched it six times in theaters and I would have watched it six more if I could have. This film brought such a cherished musical to life in the most perfect way. The songs and performances were perfectly executed, and I will cry every single time Cynthia Erivo hits her high note in “The Wizard and I.” The second part was good enough, but the first part is perfect to me.

My Old Ass (2024)

This is a gem of a movie that made me laugh as much as I cried (and I cried a lot). The plot was original and fresh, and there are still a handful of scenes that frequently pop in my head years after watching it in theaters. If you have to watch only five minutes of this movie, I highly recommend looking up the “One Less Lonely Girl” scene.

Sing 2 (2021)

People think I am joking when I talk about how much I love this movie, but I am being completely serious. This movie is completely entertaining with an an all-star ensemble cast and great music. It is a complete 10/10 for me, and also my sister, who I watched it in theaters with. We both cried.

Honorable Mentions:

• Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)

• Just Go With It (2011)

• Gifted (2017)

• She’s The Man (2006)

• Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith (2005)

• How To Lose A Guy in 10 Days (2003)

My list of near-perfect movies is ever-growing, and I’m sure this time next year I will have even more movies to add to this list. In the meantime, I’m going to go watch Sing 2 again.

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

It is the first weekend in May — it is still annoyingly cold back home in New York, but “cold” is rarely a word that exists anywhere down here. The doors to Toucan’s are propped open in a weak attempt to let in a breeze drift in. The breeze is virtually nonexistent, but my thoughts wander to the frigid temperatures in New York City right now, and I immediately make my peace with the humidity here.

My hair is naturally curly in a way it never is at home. It is also frizzy beyond belief — I catch a glimpse of my reflection in a dark TV screen hanging on the wall, and I decide I do not care. What a freeing feeling, deciding I don’t care. I feel good with my hair like this, frizzy and curly and natural.

I am sitting around a sticky wooden table with lifelong friends who feel more like sisters at this point in our lifetimes. We are 29, but not for long — one of us is turning 30 when the clock strikes midnight. That fact is as terrifying as it is electrifying. A new decade lingers in the air — it is unavoidable and just plain intimidating, and also a little exciting if we don’t think about it too hard. My friend and I make eye contact across the table and smile at each other over the sound of the loud bass, embracing and accepting all that is to come.

Apparently it is karaoke night at Toucan’s — every Friday night is karaoke night, of course — and it soon becomes obvious that most of the people here come every Friday night. I feel a pang of something I cannot name as I make this discovery. How beautiful that every single person on this Earth has places where they are regulars. How lovely that I am getting a glimpse into a stranger’s weekend routine. The man currently holding the microphone is belting out King of Leon’s “Use Somebody,” and I cannot help but sing along. There are some songs that will bring you out of your shell every time. “Use Somebody” has always been one of those songs for me. My friends and I get into it, and I mean really get into it, to the point where we are strumming along to the instrumental break with an air guitar, and the man singing walks over to our table, holding the mic in our direction and thanking us for being such passionate audience members.

The song ends, and sensing our enthusiasm, the host of karaoke night asks if we want to sign up to sing. I am way too sober to blame my bout of courage on alcohol, but I mindlessly add my name on the list as a duet. I take a moment to silently recognize this boldness, this growth. Maybe at 29 you confidently do things like sign up for karaoke at Toucan’s, or maybe you just no longer care what people think about you. It is refreshing, either way.

We are 19th on the list, and as the night trickles on, hours pass and somehow there are still 10 singers listed ahead of me.

We feel bad about leaving, but we decide to go back to our hotel before our chance to sing comes up. We have early plans the next morning and we want to make sure we are well-rested. Something about this fact makes me laugh — maybe 29 is feeling bold enough to finally sign up for karaoke but feeling tired and prioritizing your wellness enough to go home to sleep before your name is called.

It is about a 15-minute walk back to where we are staying, and the night is too gorgeous to call a cab and not enjoy the fresh air. As we walk the empty Floridian streets, we decide to blast the song we would have sung at karaoke and sing along in the darkness as if we had an audience, harmonizing and all.

The song blares from my phone, and in that moment, I feel so grateful to be singing “Lips Of An Angel” in a town I do not know with friends I know better than anything.

And in that moment, I realize we will turn 30 soon, but we will always sing along to a song we loved when we were 12. We will watch Justin Bieber music videos for 2 hours like we did when we were 16. We will laugh and take pictures. We will grow up and also stay 17 forever. It is as special and sacred as it is scary, and I am excited for all of it.

By the time we get home, the clock has struck midnight, because time has the annoying habit of passing even when we pray it won’t, and my best friend is now 30. We sing happy birthday and take deep breaths. I fall asleep smiling, thinking about all that is to come. I am excited for all of it.

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

Somehow another month has already passed us by? May traditionally always feels like a long month, but this particular May felt extra long for some odd reason. Since it felt so long, it was extra-filled with things to adore this May.

Let’s get right into it — see below for all of the things I was loving this month <3

miscellaneous favorites:

• hibiscus iced tea

• styling my new bangs!

• Italian charm bracelets (still)

• capri yoga pants

• orange wine

• ballet flats

• polka dots

• my I <3 NY umbrella

• edamame

• girls trips

• going to a Bruce Springsteen show!

• Trader Joe’s tote bags

products I am loving:

• Steve Madden Slinky30 sandals: These are my tried and true sandals. I bought my first pair years ago, and just replaced them since they finally got a hole in them. These shoes are ridiculously comfortable and durable, and are all I wear in the summertime. If I was a cartoon character, the summer version of me would wear these sandals.

• Pixi Endless Silky Eye Pen: I borrowed the brown color from my roommate recently, and I was immediately hooked. The quality of this eyeliner is great and it is super affordable, too!

music I am listening to on repeat:

It was another fabulous month for new music, if I do say so myself!! MUNA, Maisie Peters, and Bleachers all released new albums, and there were new singles from so many other iconic artists. Also, I both discovered + rediscovered some older music that I played on repeat…

• Dancing On The Wall - MUNA: I love this band so much. Their music never disappoints, and this entire album has been on loop since it came out. It’s hard to pick some favorites, but “Buzzkiller,” “Eastside Girls” and “Girl’s Girl” are high on the list.

• “Rock Music” - Charli xcx: This song had me marching down the street as I blasted it in my headphones (so did her other release, “SS26,” to be fair). I hope this song is everywhere this summer — for some reason, it really embodies a carefree, fun, late summer night to me.

• “Mary’s Place” - Bruce Springsteen: As I mentioned above, I saw Bruce Springsteen live this month, which was iconic! This song has always been one of my favorites from his discography, and I played it quite a few times this May.

• “Edge of the Earth” - The Beaches: I am so glad this song was featured on the Off Campus soundtrack. I am absolutely obsessed with it!!! I have now listened to most of their music, and I definitely now consider myself a fan. They also have a new album coming out next week, so I am stoked to check it out!

• “the cure” - Olivia Rodrigo: I’m not really shy about the fact that I think Olivia is one of the most talented songwriters of her generation, and I can’t even put into words how excited I am for her new album. With each new song, Olivia continues to prove how talented she is. I love this song, probably even more than “drop dead!”

• “Hit the Wall” - Gracie Abrams: I ended up listening to this song on repeat the day it came out. I will be honest and say there are only a few Gracie songs that make me feel this way, and this quickly became one of them. I’m excited for her new album, too!

• “Old Fashioned” - Maisie Peters: I love quite a few new songs featured on Maisie’s album, Florescence (“Vampire Time, “Houses,” “Say My Name In Your Sleep” to name a few). This one specifically has been stuck in my head on repeat!

• “we should talk” - Bleachers: Ugh. I love Bleachers so much. I have seen them live so many times, and the show is always amazing. Their latest album, everyone for ten minutes, is going to be on repeat all summer. This song was definitely an initial stand-out for me!

TV & movie favorites:

• Off Campus: I am SO happy this book series is having a well-deserved moment in the sun! I read the whole series years ago and have truly adored the entire universe Elle Kennedy has created. In my opinion, the show adaptation really did the books justice. It was well-cast, well-written, and had a fabulous soundtrack. I couldn’t ask for more, and I have already rewatched the show a few times.

• The Devil Wears Prada 2: This was a cute sequel! I am genuinely so happy this got a theatrical release instead of going straight to streaming.

• Pop Culture Jeopardy: I have been a sucker for this show, if I’m honest! I love Jeopardy, all things pop culture, and Colin Jost, so this show feels like it was made for me. Highly recommend this if you are a fan of these things too! I love to watch it when I work from home and play along.

• Company Retreat: This show is such a treat to television. It is the second season to the extremely well-received Jury Duty. It is hilarious and wholesome. I genuinely think about Anthony and how lovely he is on a daily basis. I hope there are dozens of seasons of this show — I can’t recommend it enough!

• Power Ballad: Paul Rudd + Nick Jonas + a film about music and songwriting = I knew I was destined to love this one. It was fun and had a great message about what is really important in life.

books of the month:

• “Love Song” - Elle Kennedy: As mentioned above, I have been a long-time fan of Elle and this book universe. I look forward to every new release! This book wasn’t my favorite of the spin-off series (“The Dixon Rule” is my favorite by far!), but this book was a fun, easy read that is perfect for the summer months.

• “Girls Our Age” - : Oh, how I love literary fiction about girlhood and friendship! This was Phoebe’s debut novel, and I couldn’t put it down. She has officially been added to my list of authors I will automatically read.

• “Strangers” - Belle Burden: I had to see what all the hype was about with this one! I enjoyed the way this was written and I am glad Belle spoke up and told her story. I especially loved reading about her writing process and how she initially got her NYT essay published.

• “We Could Be Rats” - Emily Austin: My wonderful roommate gifted me this book for Christmas after she was intrigued by the cover in a bookshop in upstate New York. I finally got around to reading it — I couldn’t put it down! I loved the writing style and the format it was written in. I will say there are quite a few trigger warnings in this story that I did not know about going into, so definitely do some research prior to diving into this. It was a 5-star read for me!

• My next read: “Phoebe Berman’s Gonna Lose It” by the one and only Brooke Averick! I have adored Brooke since her early TikTok days as Lady Efron, and I couldn’t be more excited to read her debut novel. I feel proud of her as if she is a personal friend of mine. I can’t wait to read and review this one!

favorite eats/drinks:

• Fortunato Brothers: I’ve heard amazing things about this Brooklyn bakery for years, and I finally got to try it. It 10000% lived up to the hype. I’m a huge fan of Italian rainbow cookies, and the ones here were incredible.

• PopUp Bagels: Highly recommend grabbing some hot bagels and scallion cream cheese and eating them in the nearest park.

pictures of the month:

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

This summer, I am trying to go back to my roots. By that, I mean I am trying to simplify life as much as I can. And when I think of simplifying my life, I think of summertime years ago, back when I was in middle school. Quite literally everything was so much simpler back then — I spent every day hanging out with friends, focusing on my hobbies and doing things that genuinely made me feel good inside and out.

Somewhere throughout the years, without realizing, I lost sight of what these types of summers look like. I am determined to make this summer feel more like it did back then, full of wholesome and whimsical activities.

To make that happen, here are my rules for a middle school summer:

• sign up for a summer reading club at my local library

  • Growing up, I was obsessed with the summer reading program at my local library. I loved the idea of reading books and collecting stamps and prizes when I read a certain number of books. I love Goodreads, but nothing compares to the feeling of my librarian giving me a stamp back in the day.

• have a sleepover with a friend and pull an all-nighter (just one)

  • I miss the feeling of laying on your couch with your best friend, watching movies and sharing secrets until the sun came up.

• drink a slushy at the movie theater (instead of soda)

  • Something about sipping on a cherry slushy and snacking on popcorn while watching the newest movie in a cold movie theater makes me nostalgic in the best way.

• go to a midnight premiere of a movie

  • I used to do this all the time for all the major franchises — the Twilights, Hunger Games, and Divergents of it all — and I felt on top of the world, and there was such a strong sense of community that I yearn for today. So many blockbuster films are releasing this summer, so I want to do this again!

• have as many picnics in the park as possible (and bring an ice pop or watermelon each time)

  • At least once a week, you can find me perched in the park with some snacks and a good book. This summer, I want to make sure I keep my picnics up, but with the refreshing summer snacks I used to love, like ice pops and watermelon.

• buy some print magazines and circle everything I want to buy

  • I used to love browsing magazines, making vision boards, and circling clothes I wanted to buy but never actually would.

• call my friends on the phone (or mail them letters)

  • I have been trying to mail more letters and talk on the phone more — they both feel so much more personal and intentional than texting.

• drink more lemonade

  • Last summer, I stopped mid-run to pay a visit to a homemade lemonade stand. More of those, please!

• carry card games to play instead of scrolling on my phone

  • I own so many conversation card games (ex: we’re not really strangers and The Hygge Game) and I have started to carry the cards in my purse when I know I will have a long train ride! It has been so much fun to play with whoever I am traveling with, and it keeps me off my phone.

• always carry a journal and glitter gel pen with me

  • I love love love carrying around my Muji pen and Moleskine journal everywhere I go. Not only does it keep me off my phone, but I love having a designated place to write my thoughts at any time of the day.

• wear my hair natural

  • I have naturally wavy hair that I barely know how to style. This summer, I want to embrace my natural curls the way I used to.

• do more crafts (especially watercolor paint)

  • Enough said — I used to have so much fun painting and coloring back in the day.

• browse the mall instead of online shopping

  • In middle school, there was nothing more fun than meeting up with your friends and wandering aimlessly around the mall. I’m determined to do this again any time I can. It will always be much more fun than online shopping.

• find a show to watch every week

  • I miss when shows would premiere new episodes weekly! I know that some streaming platforms and some shows still do release once per week, so I am on a mission to find one to look forward to each week this summer.

• ride my bike around my hometown

  • Back in the day, I used to ride my bike as much as I could. This summer, whether it is on a Citi Bike or on the bike I keep in my hometown, I want to ride when I can.

• wear sparkly eyeshadow

  • This is another thing I used to do all the time but have slowly stopped unless it is for a special occasion. I want to bring sparkly eyeshadow back in a casual way again!

• wear clothes that feel like me (including my Italian charm bracelet)

  • This past winter, I donated a bunch of clothes I no longer wore. I want to donate even more this summer, and only keep and wear the items that I am excited to put on my body.

• bake cookies more than buy them

  • Self-explanatory, but I miss baking fresh cookies. Cozy summer nights are the perfect time to start again.

• move my body in a way that feels authentic

  • I want to dance and stretch and go for walks on the beach.

• write substack posts like I would write in my diary

  • I want to write Substack posts the same way I used to confess to my diary — vulnerable and honest.

• make a “summer anthems” playlist

  • I used to make a playlist every single summer that I would listen to on repeat. It was full of upbeat and fun summer songs and made me so happy.

• keep social media off my phone and only use the internet when I am home

  • I have had all social media (besides Substack) off my phone for a very long time now. Recently, I have also been reminiscing on the days of a designated “home computer,” and this summer, I want to pretend that my laptop is my home computer and really limit my time online.

When I stop and think about it, all of my rules really have the same key themes:

• slowing down

• being present

• living authentically

• acting intentionally

• ditching my phone

I am excited for this summer in a way I truly haven’t been in years — I hope I make the middle school version of me proud.

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

Into the phone, I hear her say, “and I told her — I don’t live in New York to stay home. I make sure I am busy every night.” She seems exasperated, insistent, and almost frustrated as she talks into her phone. She speaks as if her words are the most obvious ones in the world.

I don’t hear much else of her conversation, but this stranger’s words make me stop and think.

A few years ago, when I was 25, I would have been obsessed with her energy. I would think to myself that she gets it; I would use that overheard sliver of conversation to fuel and justify my overly ambitious calendar and goals. Back then, I, too, wanted to be booked and busy every night. I wanted to be doing something at all times.

Now, as I am only months away from 30, listening to this woman speak immediately exhausts me. Of course, I only heard a few seconds of her conversation, so I am basing my opinions off a small clip of a much larger narrative. However, something tells me I heard everything I needed to in order to get the gist, and I am left to pause and reflect on how I operate in my daily life. Although I have grown in so many ways the last few years, I still have a ways to go when it comes to slowing down.

Today, I fear I am still always trying to do a million things at once. I think this fact is only obvious to me until my sister points it out to me one evening. We are watching an episode of Million Dollar Secret together on the couch when she calls me out for scrolling on my laptop at the same time. I don’t even know what I am doing on my laptop; I just know I feel like I need to be doing something. Completing some sort of task. Making some sort of progress. There are so many things I want to do and no time to waste, is what I have been telling myself.

My list of to-dos and goals is endless, it seems. I want to run a marathon. I want to publish a book. I want to read all 226 books on my list and watch every single movie that is currently playing in theaters. I want to stay up late and I want to wake up early.

I want to do so many things, but lately, when I really think about it, what I want most of all is to slow down. To not feel like I am rushing through life, like I am just going through the motions and checking off boxes. I want to slow down and be intentional.

Since I have admitted this to myself, I have been really trying to focus on that last fact — how badly I want to slow down — and I try to let that be my driving factor. I remind myself I have time. Maybe I will run a marathon when I’m 32 and maybe I will publish a book when I am 35. The books on my shelf quite literally are not going anywhere, and the movies in theaters today will be streaming next month. I have enough time to do all the things I want to do. I am the only one telling myself I am running out of time, the only one imposing these fake deadlines onto myself. I will get there. I have time. I repeat this to myself five times a day and I can’t tell if I am actually starting to believe myself. I will keep it up until I do.

As for the woman I heard on the phone, on some level, I will always understand her. I will always respect her. The allure of New York City goes without saying, I think. The city that never sleeps, as they say. There is always so much to do at any hour of the day. I allow myself to remember two things can be true at once — the fact that there is always so much happening is allowed to exhaust me just as much as it excites me. It is okay that I am exhausted and excited at the same time. It is okay that there are so many things I want to do. It is okay that I want to slow down and be intentional. Like I said, I have enough time to do it all. I keep taking deep breaths and reminding myself: I have time. I have time. I have time.

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

I love to analyze song lyrics, and I love to ask people if they listen to the lyrics or the instrumentals of a song the first time they hear it. For me, it’s been lyrics — it always has been. A song can easily go from good to great in my mind if I find myself floored by and obsessed with the lyrics the artist has written.

Without further ado, here are some of my all-time favorite lyrics that truly made me gasp the first time I heard them. No explanation needed:

“I’m sure we’re taller in another dimension” - “White Ferrari,” Frank Ocean

“When you’ve outgrown a lover, the whole world knows but you; it’s time to let go of this endless summer afternoon” - “Hard Feelings/Loveless,” Lorde

“So I will wait for the next time you want me, like a dog with a bird at your door” - “Moon Song,” Phoebe Bridgers

“I’ve gotta get it in my head, I’ll never be sixteen again” - “When,” dodie

“If I got what I wanted, would I want the thing I got?” - “Cinder Block,” Samia

“Cause if I never see you again, you could be anything I want” - “23,” Noah Kahan

“Everything you see out here will die, it’s a matter of time” - “End Of August,” Noah Kahan

“When my time comes around, lay me gently in the cold, dark Earth, no grave can hold my body down, I’ll crawl home to her” - “Work Song,” Hozier

“I need him like water, he thinks that I’m alright” - “complex,” Katie Gregson-MacLeod (I really should have included this whole song, to be honest)

“Every time a guy writes a song, he's a sailor, a cowboy,
Holding out the world in his palm like he made it himself,
Every time I open my mouth, I think, "Wow, what a loud noise,"
Still on the soapbox, just hoping I seem underwhelmed” - “The Hand,” Annabelle Dinda

“I’m afraid I might forget; what if the good memories start to fade out?” - “Nico’s Red Truck, Dijon

“I miss my dog and I miss falling in love, I miss the feeling that you get when someone fits just like a glove”- “Sunshine Baby,” The Japanese House

“My skin's not what it used to be
It's scabbed and it's raw from scrubbing you off of me, and
I hope the place you're hiding is safe and warm
I hope you're finding shelter from the storm” - “My Skin,” Delaney Bailey

Of course, this list would be incomplete without some of my absolute favorites from Miss Taylor Swift. I don’t think I am biased, as she was just named one of the 30 greatest living American songwriters by The New York Times. I also watched her interview describing her writing process and it was so cool to hear. Here are some of her best, if you ask me:

“And I can go anywhere I want,
Anywhere I want, just not home,
And you can aim for my heart, go for blood,
But you would still miss me in your bones,
And I still talk to you (when I'm screaming at the sky),
And when you can't sleep at night (you hear my stolen lullabies)” - “my tears ricochet” (I had to include the entire bridge of this song)

“But you’ll find the real thing instead; she’ll patch up your tapestry that I shred” - “champagne problems”

“All we are is skin and bone, trained to get along” - “Treacherous”

“And you call me up again just to break me like a promise, so casually cruel in the name of being honest” - “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)”

“So I'll watch your life in pictures like I used to watch you sleep,
And I feel you forget me like I used to feel you breathe” - “Last Kiss”

I’m sure I am missing a ton of lyrics here, but these are ones that most definitely gave me a visceral reaction the first time I heard them, and still do, even after hearing them a million times. Maybe it’s the writer in me or maybe I am someone who just really appreciates music. Maybe both. Either way, I hold these lyrics close to my heart.

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

Spring is finally here, and it finally feels that way, too! It has been so nice to quite literally stop and smell the roses this month. Overall, I am really trying to slow down and be present, and April always feels like one of the best months to truly try to do that.

See below for some of the things I adored this April <3

miscellaneous favorites:

• randomly meeting Lorde (yes, Lorde) on a Thursday night in the West Village

• Italian charm bracelets

• stretching when I wake up

• daffodils

• celebrating everything with an ice cream cake

• wearing scarves in the spring

• browsing stationary stores

• Muji pens (still)

• potato chips

products I am loving:

• BAGGU Bowler Bag: I unfortunately bought a new BAGGU this month. It quite literally caught my eye in the windowsill, and I gasped when I saw it. Yellow is my absolute favorite color and the size was perfect for an everyday bag. I have been using it every day this month and it truly brings me so much joy to wear it on my arm.

• Nespresso Iced Tumbler: I have to admit I am not much of a coffee drinker, but my best friend found out about the Nespresso + Milk Bar pop up, so we headed to SoHo at 6am before work to get a coffee in one of these new tumblers. It was genuinely a great purchase (it’s spill-proof!) and I would definitely recommend this cup for anyone who takes their drinks on the go.

music I am listening to on repeat:

April must be when all the greatest songwriters decide to release music because the last few weeks have been excellent in terms of new releases and song lyrics that have stopped me in my tracks when I heard them for the first time (example 1: everything you see out here will die, it’s only a matter of time)…

• The Great Divide: The Last Of The Bugs by Noah Kahan. I knew I would love this album — I would have been shocked if I didn’t. This album exceeded my already high expectations, somehow. Noah is such an amazing lyricist, and his words just strike a chord. This album is a special one. Some of my favorites include: “End Of August,” “23,” and “All Them Horses.”

• Cruel World - Holly Humberstone: I have been a huge Holly fan for years, and this album is everything I could have hoped for. Holly feels like girlhood to me. A few of the songs on repeat for me have been: “Red Chevy,” “Make It All Better,” and “Blue Dream.” Definitely give this one a listen if you are an Olivia Rodrigo fan — for some reason, they have similar vibes to me!

• “drop dead” - Olivia Rodrigo: She’s back! I couldn’t be more stoked — April truly has been an excellent month for music. Regardless of what people may think about this song, I adore it; I think it perfectly encapsulates what it feels like to be developing a crush. It’s a scary feeling you want to bottle. I love this song and I love Olivia and this album release is going to be just as iconic as we think it is.

• “Often, Lately” - Dermot Kennedy: Dermot may have one of the prettiest voices I have ever heard, and he is another amazing lyricist. His whole album, The Weight of the Woods, is worth checking out, but this song in particular has been stuck in my head.

• “Your Friend” - : This song stopped me in my tracks the first time I heard Jensen sing it on TikTok. I immediately saved it, and was over the moon to discover it was finally being released. The emotion is palpable and I feel giddy and 17 in the best way every time Jensen releases music. I feel like she always just gets it.

• “I Would Hate You If I Could” - Turnover: This song was recommended to me by one of my best friends and it just scratches an itch in my brain.

TV & movie favorites:

• The Drama: This was one of my most anticipated releases of the year, and it did not disappoint! It kept me on the edge of my seat and at no point in time was I able to correctly guess what was about to happen next. Also, I’m glad the entirety of the internet agrees that Rachel was a horrible friend.

• You, Me & Tuscany: More romcoms in theaters, please! Oh man, I had a great time watching this on the big screen. I giggled and kicked my feet and it was just so refreshing to watch.

• Forbidden Fruits: I don’t typically do well with horror movies, but this one was more of a campy horror dramedy? I loved the cast so I knew I had no choice but to see it. I did have to turn my face away during a few very gory scenes, but I had a great time watching this one as well.

• Mile End Kicks: A coming of age film set in the early 2010s, this movie genuinely made me nostalgic for Tumblr quite a few times. It was messy in all the accurate ways, and the main character was unlikeable and immature in a way that felt authentic, too.

• Down with Love: An early 2000s romcom that I had somehow never seen? This was so fun — I especially loved the outfits! Definitely put this one on your list if you haven’t seen it, either.

• Million Dollar Secret: I have been watching this show on Netflix with my family, and it is filling the Traitors-sized hole in my heart. I just love a game show where people have to be strategic.

books of the month:

• “Project Hail Mary” - Andy Weir: This was one of the only times ever where I watched the movie first before reading the book. I truly enjoyed the movie so much that I just had to see what all the book fuss was about. I don’t usually read science fiction, so this was a nice change of pace. I honestly think I appreciated the movie just because it was easier to follow all the space-related things, but like the random man who I spoke to on the subway about the book said, “Andy Weir writes books that are meant to be movies.”

• “Grape Juice” - Eliza Dumais: I feel like I include a novella in my favorites every month, and that’s truly because I love them all so much! This one had me envisioning myself in France from the very first page, and I couldn’t get enough. I devour all their books in one sitting and I think about them for days to come.

favorite eats/drinks:

I have to be honest — I ate a lot of ice cream this month. I think there was one week where I tried a different ice cream shop 4/7 days of the week. There is something about the weather finally warming up that makes the urge to eat ice cream while standing outside on the curb irresistible.

• Mimi’s Frozen Yogurt: I once went on a date with a guy who said “lines don’t lie,” and unfortunately he was very correct. The line for Mimi’s took around 40 minutes, but it was worth the hype — definitely some of the best frozen yogurt I have had in the city.

• Caffe Panna: Another shop that famously has a line, but I will wait every time. Caffe Panna has different flavors weekly, and they are always amazing. I recommend going early since they will sell out of flavors — I sadly am speaking from personal experience. One of my favorites in New York!

• Mixue: It will cost you $2 for one of the best soft serve cones you have had in your life. I won’t say anything else — just that you should try it for yourself.

• Skirt Steak: Located in Chelsea, this place has steak frites and unlimited fries for a really affordable price. I have been a few times and just genuinely love the food and experience!

• Blank Street Iced Daydream matcha: This has been one of my favorites for a long time, so I am finally including it in one of my monthly lists! I have tried so many matchas in the city, and this one is consistently one of my favorites. You can tell it’s good because the matcha is always the perfect shade of green.

pictures of the month:

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Until next time! <3

XO, Daelyn

At that moment, I realize I am wearing the sweater I bought from H&M to wear on a first date back in October 2023. I haven’t worn this very sweater in years, I think to myself. I blink and I am suddenly mentally transported back to that era of my life, to the period of my twenties where I dated more than I ever had.

Before that night in October, I hadn’t been on a proper first date in five, maybe six, years, so naturally this date was treated like a huge deal and a momentous occasion. My mom went shopping with me to find the perfect outfit to wear to meet this special, chosen man from Hinge. We made a whole day out of browsing and shopping at the mall, aiming to find the perfectly curated, effortlessly chic look. After hours of scrutiny under the harsh dressing room lights, the cream sweater was deemed the winner, something I would feel bold but also like myself while wearing.

I was more nervous for the date than I should have been — every man is just some guy, after all. The weather was abnormally warm for late October, so I paired the sweater with my favorite black mini skirt, black rose-patterned tights, and black Mary Janes. I deemed myself unstoppable in this outfit. I convinced myself I was ready for whatever was coming.

I showed up to the bar casually early to ensure I would arrive first. I wanted him to have to approach me instead of the other way around; I dreaded the mere thought of having to find him in a crowded, dimly lit bar, only having his grainy profile photos to go off of. Minutes passed and he showed up right on time, not a minute early or late. I decided I liked that.

Once the initial introductions and awkwardness wore off, the date was better than anticipated. We were able to breeze past the small talk for the most part, which I mentally noted as a green flag. I didn’t want to spend a first date talking about our favorite colors. I wanted to skip to the good stuff immediately.

The night continued on and he didn’t laugh at any of my jokes. But he was tall and kind — so kind — and put effort into planning dates, and I thought maybe that could be enough for me. I had been single for so long that I thought maybe I didn’t mind I was the only one laughing. I wasn’t sure how I was supposed to feel. I sat in the backseat of my Uber during my drive home, anxiously pulling at the sleeves of my cream sweater, questioning how I was supposed to feel.

I had a bad habit of not giving first dates a fair chance, always finding something small very early on that would deem us irrevocably incompatible. He blinked weirdly or wore socks that were too low, I would say. It would never work out, I would tell my friends. My therapist challenged me to not make excuses here, to see this one through until it was an absolute no. I promised her I would. So I did. We went on two more dates, and both nights were also nice enough. He bought me a milkshake in Chelsea Market and we bowled two games in Long Island City and I still wasn’t sure how I was supposed to feel. Everything felt good enough.

Unfortunately, my absolute no did eventually come in the form of the worst first kiss I have ever had (so sorry). He just wasn’t meant for me, but I knew he would be the man of some other girl’s dreams. I wished him well back then and I still do.

My experiences with this man had been pleasant enough, so for the first time in my adult life, I felt semi-inspired to give dating a real, genuine try. I went out with a friend of a friend and I successfully slid into a stranger’s Instagram DMs. Both flings ended up fizzling out, with the stranger telling me he couldn’t wait to see me again after a few dates and then never answering another one of my text messages. It was truly one of the most bizarre cases of ghosting I had ever personally seen. His last words in his last text to me, “I really love hanging out with you,” haunted my phone and my mind for months.

I wore that cream-colored cable knit sweater for mostly every first date I went on during that period of my life. Sometimes I wore it with that black mini skirt, others, I swapped the skirt for my favorite pair of jeans. The sweater became a symbol of comfort and confidence to me. I knew what to expect when I wore it and I knew how I felt with it on my body. I felt 25 and flirty and carefree in the most genuine way.

All those dates were fine, and most were even fun. All of those men were nice enough. If anything, I was proud of putting myself out there, for being “open,” as they say. I think back to that version of myself, a woman in her mid-twenties waiting outside various restaurants across Manhattan in her cream sweater from H&M. Anxious and insecure, unknowing and trying her best. I am proud of her for putting that sweater on each time.

Almost two years later, I am so in love and my period of active dating is over. It happened quickly and naturally in all the cliche ways everyone always tells you about. He laughs at all my jokes and I never have to question how I’m feeling and if it is how I am supposed to feel. I inherently know it is.

Our first date was in September. I didn’t wear my cream sweater; it wasn’t even an outfit option I considered. I’m not sure what that says about me and who I am now. Maybe nothing, maybe something. If I had to guess, I would say maybe I trust myself now a little more than I did back then. Maybe I am more confident in what I want, what I deserve, and who I am. Maybe I don’t look to the comfort or familiarity of a sweater to keep me grounded in the way I did a few years ago. There was never anything wrong with relying on my sweater as a constant; I just know myself a bit better now in a way that can only come with age.

For all the things I don’t know, there are a few things I do — firstly, I will always cherish that version of me who leaned on that cream sweater every time, who wore her heart on her sleeve. I will love her forever and think of her fondly. Secondly, I am so happy it didn’t work out with any of the first date cream cable-knit sweater men. I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be.

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

A little while back, I stumbled across a piece from one of my favorite writers on Substack, , that focused on aspects of her current life that the younger version of herself would be ecstatic to discover is her reality.

I felt so inspired by the piece that I ended up reflecting and making a list of my own, thinking back to 13-year-old Daelyn who freshly got her braces off and spent her afternoons passionately flipping through the latest issue of J-14 magazine. An awkward teenager who loved the Jonas Brothers and dreamed of living in New York City.

There are so many things about my 29-year-old life that would have the teenage version of me kicking her feet and screaming, so I wanted to stop and take a second to acknowledge and be grateful for them. Some things in particular to note:

a NYC apartment with her best friend (disco ball and all)

I have lived with one of my childhood best friends for the last 5 years, throughout the duration of our mid-to-late twenties. Our time together has been nothing short of fun and magical, and our apartment is not without pink chairs, Barbie dolls and disco balls.

a regular hairdresser

I have been going to the same hairdresser for almost 6 years now — she has been with me through my blonde and redhead eras, through my bobs and bangs. It has been really cool to have the same stylist with me throughout all my physical transformations. Little me would agree.

a favorite cocktail bar in NYC

The thought of having a “go-to” bar in the city, especially one that has themed drinks, feels inherently very Sex & The City. I love the feeling of having a friend in town and knowing exactly where I want to take them out for a night on the town.

a small Jellycat collection

Some things never change — younger me would be absolutely delighted to know we simply traded in our Webkinz collection for a Jellycat collection. My Jellycats proudly sit on my adult full-size bed the same way my display of Webkinz were spread out across my twin bed.

Harry Styles tickets for September

Once a fangirl, always a fangirl. Knowing that almost 30-year old me still will buy the concert tickets every single time brings such a smile to my face.

a favorite bookstore in London

Teenage me always dreamed of going to London, and I got the chance to study there for five months when I was 19. I fell in love with Daunt Books the first time I stepped foot inside the quaint bookstore, and I make it a point to visit every single time I am in London. It also brings me so much joy to recommend this store to people who ask me for London recommendations.

a boyfriend with similar goals and hobbies

This one makes me a bit emotional, if I’m honest! If I were to tell my younger self that I currently have a cute, silly, supportive boyfriend who also feels passionately about music and movies, she would be over the moon. Current me is over the moon, too.

regular manicures

I wrote all about my nostalgic connection to my gel manicures in my piece last week (you can check it out here), but there is something so quintessentially girly about having a nail appointment on the books that younger me would think was so chic.

a local cafe where the baristas know my name

The thought of being considered a “regular” anywhere in Manhattan would make younger me feel like she belonged. The main character in every movie I loved growing up usually lived in a big city where the barista at her favorite coffee shop knew her name and her order, saying it was nice to see her again. It’s cool to think that maybe I have now reached this level, too.

the same childhood friends

This one wouldn’t come as a surprise to her, but she would obsess over it just the same. I will forever feel fortunate that my best friends from my awkward braces phase are my same best friends now. I will never take it for granted.

Making this list really forced me to pause and take a second to acknowledge that although there will always be goals and things I am working towards for the future, if I stop and look around, current me has a lot of the things younger me was yearning for, too.

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3

Since then, for the past 6 years, I have found genuine joy in getting a gel manicure about once a month. It is an act of self-care I cherish. Occasionally I will go months without one, giving my natural nails a chance to breathe, and as silly as it sounds, I feel like a part of me is missing. Wearing nail polish has become a simple way to express myself and make a style statement. I own a wide range of colors in my wardrobe, and that pattern follows through to the colors I paint my nails.

I never get the same color twice — at least, not intentionally. I like to get a color that is currently inspiring me. A color that is speaking to me at the time, and that color is constantly changing.

When nostalgia is at its peak and I sit and reminisce about a certain moment of my twenties, I now can’t help but think about the color nail polish I had at the time. I am not sure how I am able to remember the color, but I usually can (feel free to quiz me). I think back and smile about how the color I chose coincidentally felt perfect at the time I chose to wear it.

I think of the neon green nails I had during my friend’s bachelorette trip to San Juan — how fun that weekend was and how hard I laughed walking through a drive-thru on foot. Lorde released Solar Power while we were there, and I listened to it for the first time drunk after a night out in the city. My hair was blonde back then and I wore my natural curls the whole time. I remember feeling beautiful.

I think of the bright yellow (with a sparkly silver French tip) nails I got hours before my 24th birthday party. How the man doing my nails asked me if I was sure that was the color I wanted (I guess bright yellow is not a very popular color choice). How that birthday party was probably the best I have had to date — all my friends from all walks of life together in a karaoke room in K-Town, singing until our throats were sore and we almost missed the very last train home from Penn Station.

I think of the rose red I chose for my first-ever solo trip to Copenhagen. How the color felt as bold and as confident as the journey I was about to embark on. How much I enjoyed eating a dozen different pastries alone in the middle of Denmark.

I think of the magenta nails I had this past fall. The shade I got a few days before my very first date with my now-boyfriend. The very nails I ran my first-ever half marathon with and got a random promotion at work with. I jokingly called those my good luck nails. Maybe I wasn’t joking.

All different colors for different eras of my life. How lucky I am to have lived them all.

I look down at the dark pink nails I got done last weekend. The older woman next to me at the salon liked the shade I chose so much that she asked to use it once I was done. I felt oddly flattered, like I made the right choice out of the hundreds of color options available. I wonder how I will look back and remember my pink nails and this era of my life. I’m excited to find out.

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Until next time!

XO, Daelyn <3