Thanks to a house-swap opportunity that came about organically with an old friend, we were able to sneak away for a little family vacation to Kelowna. We packed up the car, boarded the ferry, and headed inland. It had been six years since I’d been back, which is actually surprising when you consider that once you’re on the mainland, Kelowna isn’t much more of a trek from Victoria than Tofino is. Still, the ferries have a special way of making any trip feel slightly prohibitive.

We did all our old favourite things, visited our favourite places, and even drove by the pool where I used to work at. It was funny and nostalgic to see these places again, now with a baby in tow and a very different life than the one I had while living there. I kept challenging myself to drive places without looking at a map and relying purely on muscle memory.

One morning, I went for a run with a friend and her running group, and somewhere between her telling me about her recent training and future goals, I got the itch. As if I needed another nudge, the friend staying at our house at the time was in town for an Ironman. I am very susceptible to other people’s energy, and apparently being around people casually training for these epics events was exactly the motivation I needed to really commit to my own. I guess now that I’m saying it out loud, there’s no going back. Fall marathon, here I come!

One thing I’m especially excited about in Victoria is the new floating sauna boat, Slacktide Swim Sauna. Have you heard of it?! You can rent the entire sauna boat for your group and spend a couple hours floating around the ocean, sauna-ing and jumping into the water in between. It fits up to 12 people, and at under $100/pp for a full boat, it actually feels like a pretty reasonable group activity.

Ok but first, let’s reflect on July, shall we?

PSA — Saltyface is having a limited time sale: spend $40 and receive a free Daily Moisturizer! Incredible deal, IMO. Code KAROLINA10 gets your 10% off. I’ve really been enjoying the coconut scented tanning water (the scent is subtle) this summer.

15 things about July

1. WATCH — I’ve got 2 great (Canadian!) films for you, and no unfortunately neither are The Invite or The Odyssey (those are still on my to-watch list).

Blue Heron was the first film in a long time that made my heart ache, like really, profoundly ache. Set and filmed on Vancouver Island, it follows a Hungarian family with four children who have recently immigrated to Canada, settling in what appears to be Nanaimo, BC. As their eldest son begins to exhibit increasingly dangerous behaviour, his parents struggle to navigate a system that offers little meaningful support. It flips between present day and the 90s, which gives an extremely nostalgic feel. This was Sophy Romvari's directorial debut, and is based on her own family story. This movie leaves you wanted to know more of the intimate details of her childhood.

Nirvana the Band, the Show, the Movie - stay with me here - was a perfect movie for my partner and I to watch one evening. Set in Toronto, it follows two lifelong friends in a band whose singular mission in life is to land a gig at the Rivoli. Somehow, time travel enters the picture, sending them back to 2008, and things only get more absurd from there. It's completely over-the-top, delightfully unhinged, and had us laughing out loud. Highly recommend if you're in the mood for something silly.

2. READ —

Peggy by Rebecca Godfrey is a historical novel that reimagines the life of Peggy Guggenheim, the creator of the Guggenheim museum in NYC. Peggy is a bohemian with a massive trust fund left by her father. We follow her life as she moves to Paris from NYC, befriending and financially supporting groundbreaking artists, navigating complicated romantic relationships, and gradually becoming one of the most important patrons of modern art. The book was Godfrey’s final work. She spent nearly a decade writing it but died in 2022 before she could finish. Her close friend, Leslie Jamison (author of Splinters), completed the manuscript using Godfrey’s notes. If you enjoy novels that blend history, art, design, and compelling female protagonists, this could be a good one for you.

The Things We Never Say by Elizabeth Strout. I’ll start by saying I’m a Strout fan, and aspire to be a Strout completionist. I love the way her books are usually quiet, character driven and melancholic. This one certainly fits that mould. At its heart, it’s about how it’s possible to know someone for decades and still never really know them at all. When Artie discovers a major secret that has bee n kept from him, it completely changes the way he sees his marriage, his family and, ultimately, his own life. There’s also a bit of a Trump-era political backdrop woven throughout the book (one completely opposite from the book I mention in point #5.)

3. WEAR — Last summer was all about the long, flowy white skirt and this summer I’m realizing is the exact opposite of that. I’ve somehow acquired many short skirts this season and my legs have been loving their airtime. I’m particularly liking the short skirt + oversized casual tee combo.

   

4. EAT — next time you’re in the yogurt aisle at the grocery store, keep your eyes peeled for Liberté Méditerranée Moka Flavour. It’s hard to find, but if you’re in Victoria, The Root Cellar carries it. This yogurt is exceptionally creamy (9 % fat) and decadent enough to pass as dessert, yet equally acceptable as breakfast (no judgement here).

   

5. LISTEN — I’m not a Stoolie, nor did I know much about Dave Portnoy prior to listening to his book Cancel Me If You Can, which randomly came up on my Spotify as I was looking for a new audiobook to run to. I pressed play, and was hooked immediately. I found the whole thing extremely entertaining. In Chapter 17, he tells the behind-the-scenes story of Alex Cooper and the early days of Call Her Daddy. When she signed with Barstool in 2017, she reportedly agreed to a three-year contract with a $75k annual salary. Three months later, she asked for a raise and it was bumped to $150k. Just a few months after that, she and Sofia Franklin were negotiating for $1 milli. Whether or not you like the people involved, it’s a fascinating look at how quickly things can change when you create something people can’t stop consuming. I don’t endorse Portnoy’s politics, but I did find the business stories genuinely interesting, and he’s hilariously candid through and through.

6. I was influenced by Chloe Fineman’s ‘$100ish and under summer essentials’ with these Tevas. I bought them pretty much immediately after watching her video, which is very rare for me. For the first couple of weeks, they were definitely tight and made my feet look like encased sausages by the end of the day (esp with the summer heat), but they’ve gradually loosened up and are now perfect. I love that I don’t have to be precious about them. I can wear them while crossing rivers, wandering through trails, or dipping my feet into the ocean without giving them a second thought. Basically, the perfect summer shoe.

   

7. My bedroom refresh continues, and last month I turned my attention to lighting. I picked up both a table lamp and a ceiling light from Zara Home. The metal table lamp is absolutely perfect. The ceiling light isn’t quite right. It’s fine—and knowing me, I’ll probably keep it for a while since we went through the trouble of installing it—but it’s a little too structured, and the linen shade is darker than I’d hoped. I was trying to find something a bit more unique than the classic rice paper lantern, but this has made me realize that sometimes the simple things are best.

   

8. My two non-negotiable Kelowna food stops are Mad Mango for the Laksa soup and the Mediterranean Market for the subs. When I lived in Kelowna during university, Mad Mango was basically a Sunday institution. We ate an absurd amount of laksa soup there, usually quite hungover. The place was always packed with UBCO students, because the food was cheap, delicious, and the soup had enough spice to bring you back to life.

   

9. We took a little day trip down to Penticton while we were in the Okanagan and... wow, what a charming town. When I was in school in Kelowna, we’d drive down to float the river, but Penticton was never somewhere we intentionally spent time. Seeing it through fresh eyes, I think I’d actually choose to live there over Kelowna. We grabbed coffee/matcha at Soe Café and played a game of chess there. I checked out Ad Hoc and got a treat from Wayne & Freda. On the drive back, we stopped at a few roadside fruit stands, where Wes devoured his very first peach from Granny’s Fruit Stand.

   

10. As I mentioned, I’m training for a fall marathon. I enlisted ChatGPT to build me a training plan exactly 12 weeks out from race day, and it’s been so nice to have a structured program to follow. In the past, I’d just head out for random runs with no real strategy, but having a purpose behind each workout has made the process soo much more enjoyable. I love knowing exactly what I’m working on and what’s coming down the pipeline. My week usually consists of one interval workout, one marathon-tempo run, a couple of easier shorter runs, and one long run that gradually builds in mileage. My algorithm has now slowly morphed from mom content to running content, which explains the wishlist below. Apparently, this is who I am now.

11. Asri Beauty was last months sponsor for our monthly Mamas & Minis class, and the lovely woman behind the business offered to give me and Josie complimentary Classic Facials each. I had just recently gotten a laser facial that felt quick and transactional, and this was anything but that. It was so relaxing, and my skin was glowing all day afterwards. I made a mental note that this is something I’d want to gift myself for my birthday.

    

12. Speaking of birthdays, my friend requested a Purge Party for hers. She’s moving to London next month and has an ungodly amount of clothes she’s been holding onto for years. So a group of us gathered at her place and worked our way through bag after bag, voting on what to keep and what to let go. There wasn’t time to try everything on ~there was simply too much~ but if your wardrobe is a little more manageable, I’d highly recommend doing this with friends. It’s surprisingly helpful to talk through the story behind each piece and have people who know your style weigh in. Equal parts closet clean-out, therapy session, and girls’ night.

    

13. Every Sunday that I’m home, you’ll find me at our little neighbourhood farmers’ market. I’ve made a concerted effort to try and buy something from most vendors. My favourite purchases have been a bouquet of delicate white Champion blooms (incredible vase life), salmon teriyaki rice balls, and butter chicken samosas. There is a tiramisu lady that I’m dying to buy a slice from next weekend.

    

14. When a free Ikea patio table and 6 chairs came up on FBMP, I knew I had to act fast. It definitely needed some TLC but it’s more than salvageable. As someone who feels very incompetent and useless when it comes to DIY and restoring things, this felt like an approachable first project to sink my teeth into. I even had my friend from The Found Studio come over an help me out with sanding and staining it. Having been to Ikea recently, I’ve definitely noticed a big difference in their patio furniture quality and much prefer their older stuff, so if you can find a used set, I’d highly recommend to restore rather than purchase new.

15. I finally binged Love Story, and am now obsessed with Sarah Pidgeon. I’ve also been listening to the playlist on repeat.

10 things on my wish list

1. Last bit of summer clothing I want to squeeze into my wardrobe.

2. New running shorts I’ve got my eyes on.

3. I stopped a girl to ask what jeans she was wearing the other day and she told me they were these.

4. Very Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. I think they would be perfect for the fall.

5. I’m afraid I’ve fallen for these trendy running sunnies. They have a BOGO sale going on.

6. The roll neck sweater of my dreams. This will definitely be an early fall purchase for me.

7. In the mood for a new ceramic mug.

8. Sweaters on my mind, and this one is perfect.

9. I’ve posted about these pants before but this colour is new and amazing.

10. The Sambas of 2026, mark my words.
    
    … oops I always seem to make this 11:

11. Socks to match with #2.

5 links

• I enjoyed Amrit’s essay on Spread The Jelly about TTC for her second

• Loved this post from the Founder of Loeffler Randall: ‘A Summer Wardrobe Exit Interview - My most worn, biggest lesson learned, and the thing that was a compliment magnet.”

• I’ve always loved following @bleubird and this post on Summertime Favourites + Things Aquired was a goodie

• Spray Tans, Erewhon, and IVs: Kaia Gerber and Hayes Warner on Making The Shards

• J.Crew’s New Arrivals Are Full of Transitional Wardrobe Staples

❤️ Thank you for being here. If you liked this article, clicking “like” helps more people discover my Substack. (Or leave a comment — it truly makes my day.)

Lauren is one of the few people I know IRL who has been writing on Substack for about as long as I have. It’s been so fun to watch her cultivate such a thoughtful, engaged community, and I’ve really admired what she’s built on this platform.

I’ve met Lauren at least a couple of times in person, and she’s just as lovely as you’d expect. I first discovered her back in her A Summer in Italy days (read here ICYMI), which I remember thinking was such a gorgeous brand. That same thoughtful eye for aesthetics has carried over to You’ve Got Lauren. Her newsletters are beautifully designed, and I always appreciate the extra care she puts into making every email feel cohesive, intentional, and unmistakably her.

If you’re a lover of books, art, and thoughtful design, you’ll love You’ve Got Lauren. If you’re new, I’d recommend starting with:

• Weird Girl Films for Fall

• Boring Girl Summer

• Après Tennis Club

Now, please enjoy 39 (mostly) rapid-fire questions with Lauren Neufeld :)

About Routine

1. What time do you wake up? Is it different on the weekends?

The alarm goes off around 6:40, but I always press snooze a couple times. On weekends, there are no alarms, so I usually wake up at 7:30.

2. Describe the first 30 minutes of your day.

A snuggle in bed with my husband and cat. Then brush my teeth, wash my face, and make matcha lattes (if Scott hasn’t already made them for us).

3. What’s something you’re currently trying to improve about your routine?

Introducing a simple movement routine or morning stretch before work. Clocking in at 7:30 makes it a little tricky for me, but I always have a better day when I start with some movement.

4. What are your holy grail wellness products and practices that you use/do routinely?

Keeping our home calm and tidy is essential for my wellbeing. I light candles a lot, even just to sit behind my computer and work. My supplements have been simplified down to magnesium and vitamins B, C, & D. I love herbal infusions — my current faves are nettle, oat straw, lemon balm, and peppermint. Oral health is a big one too — daily flossing, tongue scraping, and an electric toothbrush are all part of the routine.

5. How do you change your day around if you’re not feeling like your best self?

Taking a shower always helps me reset. A long walk outside or sex does the trick too.

About Home

6. What is the story behind your home and how long have you lived there?

Last year my husband and I moved back to the lake town where I grew up. We’re renting a house surrounded by trees, about a five-minute walk from the water. The layout is super quirky, with four different levels. We’ve come to love it, though people are always surprised when they visit. It’s quiet and peaceful, with lots of windows and natural light. As tenants, we’ve done our best to work around the millennial greys and builder-grade finishes. There’s more we’d like to do, but for now it gives us space to focus on our goals.

7. What are a few favourite things that you cherish in your home and why?

“I am a museum of everything I have loved” is a quote I always think of when I’m asked about my home. I’m such a minimalist, so everything in our home has a story or a reason to be there. I love the art I’ve collected over the years. My books, textiles, and ceramics — all the things that remind me of the people, places, and ideas that have shaped me.

8. What’s been your most impressive secondhand find?

Without a doubt, my couch. Custom built, upholstered in Italian linen, and filled with down. A large four-seater with an ottoman in perfect condition. A very wealthy family needed to make room for their new custom sofa, so they posted it for a fraction of its value. I didn’t waste a single moment when I saw it on Marketplace. I took off early from work to grab a U-Haul and roped my husband into meeting me at the stranger’s massive mansion. I hope to live with this piece forever, maybe even have it reupholstered decades down the road. It reminds me of something from an English country manor — one of those pieces that gets passed down through generations. I just love it!

9. What’s the next thing you’re planning on updating / upgrading in your home?

We need rugs. Lots of large rugs. Also, the black chairs around our kitchen table need work. I want to paint them a cheerful colour like butter yellow or Wedgwood blue.

10. Do you have a favourite spot to sit in your home?

As far as comfort goes, the couch. But my favourite place to sit and be creative is my office. The barrelled-ceiling attic is my private little oasis where I get to work, do yoga, and chat on the phone. One wall is covered with a large mood board that I update with the seasons. It’s the first time I’ve had a room all to my own since I was a child. So much fun!

About Food

11. 3 things that are always in your fridge and 3 things that are always in your pantry.

Fridge: Yogurt, mixed greens, and chicken.

Pantry: Toasted buckwheat, sourdough, and protein powder.

12. 3 things that you wish were always in your fridge and 3 things that you wish were always in your pantry?

Fridge: Fresh berries, buffalo mozzarella, and San Pellegrino.

Pantry: Spanish anchovies, tamari-roasted almonds, and dark chocolate.

13. Favourite kitchen utensil / gadget?

Until recently, I would’ve said our Berkey water filter. But we recently got the Nespresso milk frother, and it’s been a total game changer. I pour in almond milk, matcha, and even a little protein powder, and it makes the creamiest, most perfect lattes every time.

14. Favourite meal growing up?

Roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, and veg. Basically Christmas dinner, lol.

15. A meal on heavy rotation these days?

Open-faced tomato sandwiches. You know the local yellow tomatoes I’m talking about! I’ve also been making big fresh salads topped with steak strips, and cucumber soba noodle bowls.

16. And a quick, healthy snack you always have on hand?

Apples or pears and homemade popcorn with nutritional yeast, paprika, and rosemary.

17. How do you stay hydrated throughout the day?

Mostly just water, sometimes I’ll add electrolytes. I also eat lots of naturally hydrating foods like cucumbers, berries, carrots, snap peas, tomatoes, and lettuce.

About Style

18. How often do you purge your wardrobe? Any advice on that?

All the time. I’m cutthroat when it comes to getting rid of stuff. When I’m done with something, I want it gone instantly. Because of this trait, I don’t have a very large wardrobe. Somewhat of a capsule by default. I’m slowly replacing it with versatile, well-made pieces that reflect my style. Good clothes are an investment though, so this will take me some time.

19. What’s one item in your wardrobe you’ll likely never get rid of?

A few really good knits, a couple vintage blazers, and a handful of leather pieces. Truthfully though, nothing is safe.

20. Who’s your style muse?

Dakota Johnson, Lucy Williams, Renate Reinsve, and Elizabeth Olsen.

21. 3 words to describe your style, go…

Relaxed, refined, and effortless (that last one is just an aspiration at this point). My style isn’t quite where I’d like it to be yet. I’ve spent years putting my energy into other parts of my life and only recently started giving the same attention to how I dress.

& Everything Else

22. What’s one trend you’re currently loving and hoping to stay for the long haul?

I’m here for the drawstring pant trend. Relaxed, wide-leg trousers in crisp cotton poplin or lightweight linen — polished, comfortable, and so easy to style.

23. You decide to treat yourself. How do you indulge?

Probably shopping — a new garment or housewares item from my wishlist.

24. How do you typically spend a day off?

This varies a lot depending on the season, my cycle, and what’s going on. Usually it involves putting together a nice breakfast with my husband, or baking something fun. Right now I’m really into this rhubarb almond-flour cake! The afternoon usually involves a walk by the lake. Lately, I’ve been trying to get in the water more, but I’m kind of a baby unless it’s really hot outside. And I always leave time for reading (lots of reading) or a creative project.

25. What’s the last hobby you picked up just for fun?

Sewing! I finished my first quilt earlier this year, and now I’m making a fabric panel for our bedroom window.

26. What’s a smell that takes you back to your childhood?

Fresh cut grass. So good.

27. When’s the last time a stranger made you smile?

Kids make me smile all the time. I love how free and wild they are.

28. What’s something you still find magical, no matter how old you get?

Flowers. A lady down the road has a big garden and a lovely flower stand. Sometimes she’ll send me home with an entire bucket of stems for $20. Then I’ll spend part of the afternoon filling vases for each room in the house.

29. One place in the world you’re dying to visit?

Copenhagen was top of my list for many years. I was very fortunate to visit last month, and honestly, I already want to go back.

30. What’s a movie you’ve seen recently that left a big impact on you?

The Invite (2026).

31. Guilty pleasure?

Fuzzy peaches (or most chewy candy). And using paper towels.

32. What’s the last thing you bought that you’re really excited about?

A big piece of Marimekko linen fabric. The iconic oversized poppy design is printed in Helsinki and reminds me of our recent holiday. I turned it into a window covering for our bedroom, and the morning light shining through it makes it even more beautiful.

33. What do you miss?

Living somewhere walkable. I love our little lake town, but I miss wandering into cafés and shops, and bringing home groceries on foot.

34. What no longer impresses you?

Having the whole five-year plan figured out. These days, I really admire people who are comfortable enough to change direction when something no longer fits.

35. Song currently on repeat?

“Come On” by Yana.

36. Favourite form of movement / exercise?

Walking, yoga, pilates, and dance.

37. If you could rename yourself, what name would you choose?

I wouldn’t by choice. But if I had to, I’d go with something like Florence or Summer. Something bold to bring out my Leo qualities a little more.

38. How do you handle stress on busy days?

Lists. I’m a huge list maker. And making sure I have food to eat. When I get focused on something, meal planning is usually the first ball I drop.

39. Tell me a bit about what you do for work.

My main gig is working for the BC Government. I’m the Reimbursement Coordinator for the seven Natural Resource Ministries. I have a great four-day work week, Monday through Thursday. They’re long days in front of the computer, but I work from home full-time, so there are many perks.

Fridays are my favourite though. I get to spend the day with the inspiring team at Pocket Art — a monthly art subscription service that offers an approachable way to collect limited edition prints from artists around the globe. A day at the studio always sends me into the weekend with a smile.

❤️ Thank you for being here. If you liked this article, clicking “like” helps more people discover my Substack. (Or leave a comment — it truly makes my day.)

The first half of the year — I don’t really have words. It’s been busy and exhausting and so fulfilling.

I hope my friends don't mind me sharing some of the wonderful names they've chosen for their little ones. Here are a few of my favourite baby names I've heard being used lately:

Girls — Harley, Westyn, Scottie, Josephine, Alma, Alba, Austa, Pfeiffer, Waverley, Lola, Sloane, Romy, Cleo, Goldie, Pascal, Palmer, Posy, Phillipa, Winona, Wren.

Boys — Monty, August, Holden, Hank, Hugo, Calder, Rhodes, Quincy, Lawrence, Cohen, Caspian, Whittaker.

The weather was on its best behaviour last month. We had very hot days, and days that offered a reprieve from the oppressive sun. I’ve been in my own little world, existing somewhere between the dreamlike haze of middle-of-the-night feeds (going on 8 months), adrenaline-fuelled days spent moving from one thing to the next, and moments of genuine contentment.

When my son smiles and laughs, I can feel the joy as though by osmosis; I absorb his delight. It is simple and powerful and it fuels me. So do affogatos.

It’s a short intro this time around. Putting these together has become increasingly more challenging as Wesley starts to become more mobile. The older he gets, the more attention I seem to need to give, and the more distracted I get.

We're off to Kelowna for a few days on Friday. I'm sure I'll have plenty to tell you about next month. Ciao for now.

15 things about June

1. READ — Carrying on with my goal of always having at least one physical book and one audiobook on the go, last month I finished Lost Lambs. Delightfully funny, wildly imaginative, and surprisingly intelligent, I’ve already recommended it to a few friends who appreciate Wes Anderson-esque whimsy or loved French Exit by Patrick deWitt. It has that same dry, absurd sense of humour.

   On audio, I listened to influencer Lee Tilghman’s memoir, If You Don’t Like This, I Will Die, narrated by the author herself. I have so many thoughts, but the biggest one is that I’ll never quite understand why some people are so deeply wired for all-or-nothing thinking. Swinging from one extreme to the other is very red flaggy to me. If you have no idea who I’m talking about, I’d probably skip this one. But if you followed @leefromamerica back in the day, you might find it fascinating.

   

2. WATCH — have you seen Mother’s Instinct? Fair warning, it’s completely vile and deranged. Super duper dark. I immediately needed a palate cleanser afterwards, so I’ve been making my way through The O.C. Season 1 (it’s comically awful but so nostalgic!). We also watched a few more bad movies: The Fall Guy (bad), Heretic (quite bad), and Bone Lake (very bad). I'm desperate for something that is not bad, which is why I'm sooo excited for The Invite to hit theatres this week. I absolutely loved listening to Olivia Wilde talk about the film on both CHD and AE. I had no idea she was such a gangster.

3. WEAR — Mr. Larkin came through with another fantastic wedding guest dress. This time, a black maxi with off the shoulder ivory rose buds. I bought it during a sample sale, and split the shipping/duties with my SIL (she bought this one). I felt good in this dress and enjoyed its simplistic elegance. I’ll likely wear it one more time, then sell.

   

4. EAT — My latest hyper-fixation meal has been this: a refreshing chilled salad of baby potatoes, butter beans, chopped bell pepper, and generous chunks of crumbled feta, all tossed in a punchy chimichurri dressing. Give it a go.

5. BUY — I seemed to have acquired quite a few new things last month (some bought, some gifted). Here’s a list of everything that’s novel in my closet and home, with very varying price tags:

These espadrilles from Sezane were gifted to me and they are beautiful. Can be worn more casually or even as wedding guest shoes.

This rug that I’ve talked about ad nauseum.

This anklet that I bought with a credit I had and it’s been my entire summer personality.

This skirt that was on last months wish list. I love to wear it with a very casual oversized Tee. On sale, only a few smalls left!

This sweater was also gifted to by from Sezane and this might be crazy to say but out of everything I have from Sezane, this might be my absolute favourite item. The cost per wear is excellent. You actually cannot go wrong with this one, it’s a sweater for every body.

These jean shorts from Sezane, that I’ve barely taken off. They are perfect.

These striped linen pants that really do it all: workout pants, casual comfies for home, or dress them up to go out. I want them in red (see #4 in wish list)

6. After two ferries and a roughly nine-hour travel day, we arrived in Egmont, a tiny town on the Sunshine Coast, to celebrate a childhood friend’s wedding. The venue—West Coast Wilderness Lodge—might just take the cake for the most beautiful wedding venue I’ve ever been to. Because it’s so remote, the wedding naturally became an entire weekend affair: a welcome BBQ on Friday, the wedding on Saturday, and a farewell brunch the next morning. If any of my friends decide to get married there in the future, I'd happily make the trek all over again.

   

7. On the very last day of June, I managed to blow my monthly budget ~home category~ just a little more with a spontaneous Found Studio purchase. Our living room has a lot of wall space, and a couple of months ago, in a pinch, I picked up an inexpensive piece from Marketplace, telling myself it was only a placeholder until I found something I liked better. That something ended up being this piece. To make myself feel slightly more responsible, I funded the purchase by selling a few things that had been collecting dust: a pair of single-strap Madrid Birkenstocks I never wore, a mirror that had been sitting in my closet, and, of course, the placeholder artwork itself.

   

8. Ok how cute is this outfit? I saw my friends son in their corduroy tomato pants, and couldn’t help get Wes a pair of the banana corduroys. I also love this set.

   

   

9. I've been locked in with my strength training program lately, and as a result, I've also been consistent about taking both whey protein and creatine. I’ve never taken creatine before, but I have to believe it’s been having quite positive effects on me. I’m increasing lean muscle mass, and feeling stronger than I ever have? I would have NEVER guessed this is what postpartum could feel like. This is the brand I use.

   

10. A Minolta wasn’t the film camera I had in mind when I set out to buy one. I wanted a Pentax K1000, but the camera shop had a pretty limited selection, and the Minolta was the best-priced option, so I picked it up just before we headed to the Sunshine Coast for the wedding weekend. One of the reasons I’ve ended up loving it is that it has an automatic shutter speed. All I have to do is set the aperture, focus, and press the shutter. It’s simple enough that I can carry it around without overthinking every shot. So far, I’ve only had one roll developed, but the plan is to keep a roll of film in it all summer long.

    

11. While in Toronto, I went to the Paul McCartney Eyes of the Storm exhibition at the AGO, featuring the recently discovered film photos he took between 1963 and 1964. I took the GO train into the city with Wesley, and met my brother at the art gallery, who helped me carry the tiny prince around when he needed it. Afterwards, we strolled up through the university campus to Yorkville for lunch, before taking the train back to my parents house.

    

12. After visiting a designer lightning store in town, I can’t stop thinking about my light switches and outlets and how they should get an upgrade. A few days later, I stopped by a friend's house to pick up something up. She had recently moved into a beautifully restored heritage home, and while she was giving me the grand tour, I noticed the stainless steel outlet covers in her bedroom. Such a tiny detail, but they looked super cool. They're officially on the list for my bedroom makeover.

    

13. My latest Costco obsession is this Herdez Avo Tomatillo salsa. It's made with nothing but real, whole-food ingredients, which honestly leaves me wondering how it has such a long shelf life… but I'm not asking too many questions because it's unbelievably good. Bright, tangy, and fresh, I'd even argue it's better than guacamole.

14. I found this vintage double picture frame on Facebook Marketplace and immediately knew what I wanted to put in it. On Mother’s Day in 2025, my friend Sarah Reynolds took a few photos of me when I was 15 weeks pregnant. This Mother’s Day, I asked her to recreate them, this time with my baby, now earthside, in my arms. Seeing those two versions of motherhood side by side—the quiet anticipation and the sweet reality—cracks my heart wide open.

    

15. As per my One and Only New Mom Summer post, we’ve been going for quick beach trips to cool off in the shallow water. Wes loves this.

10 things on my wish list

1. These comfy Teva gladiator sandals that were made cool by Mary Kate Olsen ($60)

2. This metal table lamp for the bedroom credenza ($100)

3. Sporty shorts are in this summer, Zoey Kravitz says so ($50)

4. I repeat, sporty stripes are in! I have these in blue and would love a red pair ($60)

5. These adorable glass tile fridge magnets ($20)

6. Dr. Stolberg raves about the Slub Tee; I’d take one in white and camo ($60)

7. I saw this bucket hat on Chloe Fineman and though it was just perfect ($120)

8. An affordable light fixture for the finishing touches of my bedroom upgrade ($150)

9. Because our room just barely fits a King, our bedside table need to be narrow and tall — these have been growing on me ($200)

10. The next pair of denim I’m buying, mark my words! ($130)

5 fun links

• 30 things I learned at European cooking school that changed the way I cook forever

• A guide to fiber

• How to make 5pm feel like the start of your day

• What I want every woman in her 30s to know about her hormones

• The sunglasses we wear the most (I keep seeing the Millie sunglasses everywhere)

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• I once overheard her say that she rereads F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Tender is the Night every summer: chic.

• She writes Goodreads reviews that are often better than the book itself: chic.

• She has such a distinct aesthetic that things simply look "Flavia" to me: chic.

• She can style a bookshelf like no ones business: chic.

• And despite being chic as hell, she's also incredibly warm and approachable: chic.

I met Flavia through our mutual friend Morgan. The two of them started a bookclub that I enthusiastically joined last year, and have loved being a part of. Right away, I took note of how skillfully she mediated and guided our group discussions and how poised and articulate her perspectives were. You’ll understand what I mean when you read her answers below.

Flavia often looks French to me, which is to say, she has great, understated taste. I'm fairly certain she's actually Italian (bella). She's always put together and strikes me as the kind of person you'd trust with the hotel key because, unlike me, she definitely won't lose it.

A few months ago, Flavia told me she and her partner bought their first home. Morgan, an interior design aficionado, told me it was criminally good. I knew the rumours were true, and still, I gasped when I first saw images of her immaculate mid-century modern home. She has an incredible eye for filling a space with rare, thoughtful pieces that feel collected rather than decorated. Beyond chic, you guys. If anything, let this be a story of hope for all first time home owners.

Please enjoy 39 (mostly) rapid-fire questions with Flavia Sposato.

P.S. If this email appears truncated, click "View entire message" to see the full post, or read it in its entirety on the Substack app.

Photos by Berkley Vopnfjord & Lucas Sposato

About Routine

1. What time do you wake up? Is it different on the weekends?

I wake up between 6:00 – 7:00 am daily, although I will occasionally “sleep in” until 8:00 am on weekends if I’ve had a “late night” (i.e., bed after 9:45 11:00 pm).

2. Describe the first 30 minutes of your day.

Always a cup of warm water and a decaf coffee curled up on the couch with a book (currently, Writers & Lovers by Lily King).

Occasionally, I will write lingering thoughts or review a completed book on Goodreads (though I’ve admittedly fallen off recently). I am also working on one of my travel journals - re-visiting a trip I took to Italy for a friend’s wedding in 2023.

Ideally, I squeeze in a few minutes of morning sun in the yard, followed by a short shower and dry brushing before breakfast.

3. What’s something you’re currently trying to improve about your routine?

Practicing more flexibility and non-attachment. I am grateful for the rituals I have cultivated over the years, but I would like to be less reliant/conditional in my attitude towards them. In theory it’s: if I can, great, if I can’t, also great!

Rigidity in approach and frustration when I can’t fit it all in... kind of defeats the purpose?

4. What are your holy grail wellness products and practices that you use/do routinely?

Morning sun, daily walks, spearmint tea (I stock Traditional Medicinals like it’s going out of business), switching to decaf coffee, dry brushing, mat pilates, budgeting (financial wellness, boring but true), tongue scraping (once you start you can’t stop), legs up the wall nightly... beyond that, I am devoted to monthly massages, acupuncture, and infra-red sauna when I can.

In terms of products, the True Botanicals Pure Radiance Oil really is all that, and I am obsessed with Egyptian Magic – I use it on my cuticles, eyelashes, as a highlighter, under my eyes... I’ve turned many friends on to it.

5. How do you change your day around if you’re not feeling like your best self?

Truthfully, sometimes I don’t! I am actively working on this. I can get really stuck emotionally if I am feeling off.

The best remedy I have found is to focus on regulating my nervous system through all the usual suspects: time spent outdoors, sunshine, a long walk, coffee with a friend. In sum, by engaging in an activity that is not “self” focused.

Bringing it all back to the (dare I say iconic) quote by Jemima Kirke “I think you guys might be thinking about yourselves too much”... sometimes the best remedy is a dose of perspective.

About Home

6. What is the story behind your home and how long have you lived there?

We purchased our home at the end of 2025, after a brief whirlwind search. My partner originally sent me the listing with a note, “I think you’re really going to like this place”. We almost cancelled our showing last minute, and I am so glad he talked me into going!

Six split-level floors, hugged by a rocky Japanese garden – this property surprised us (and our realtor, after weeks of saying we were looking for a single-story home with a large lawn...) in so many ways.

The house is an architectural 1977 build. Well-maintained and effectively unrenovated, which means an abundance of character and features we fell in love with instantly: skylights in nearly every room (even over the bath), large wood beams, a stained-glass window, original oak floors, light fixtures, wood panelling, and floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. The many levels give the home this impression of unfolding on and on... making it feel quite spacious (this led to a symphony of “where are you’s???” between my partner and me, resonating throughout the house when we first moved in).

The location and yard are extremely tranquil and private, which was important to us. Our neighbourhood reminds us in some ways of the small towns we grew up in.

Beyond the aesthetic features, the house has great energy. There have been some synchronicities with the previous owners that we have come to learn, which have confirmed a belief we harbour – that it was simply meant to be.

7. What are a few favourite things that you cherish in your home and why?

As much as my taste leans minimal, I love sourcing objects – mostly thrifted. I have a collection of ceramics and candle stick holders, found and gifted, that bring me so much joy. I’ve also inherited art from my grandparents and great-grandparents.

However, by and large, my most cherished possessions are the dozens of postcards and letters my mom has sent me over the years. Some posted while she was travelling, many simply sent from home (she lives only a 2-hour drive away), to let me know that she is thinking of me.

8. What’s been your most impressive secondhand find?

On the homeware front, we have been fortunate to inherit some wonderful pieces from family: a buttery leather couch from my grandma (shipped from Quebec City), a set of mid-century armchairs from my parents (rescued from a doctor’s waiting room 30 years ago), vintage IKEA stools that we are currently using as bedside tables...

In terms of finds, a set of Danish teak nesting tables, found on the side of the road while on a walk last year, comes to mind. It’s a running joke amongst my friends and family that I seem to possess an uncanny ability to wish for something and have it suddenly appear, often on one of my walks.

9. What’s the next thing you’re planning on updating / upgrading in your home?

So many things! We moved in just over 6 months ago, so naturally the list is long. Although there is a discrepancy between the to-do list (platonic ideal) and to-do list (reality) that I have yet to reconcile...

When we purchased our home, a few of the original skylights were thick, corrugated plastic. Our first week, we experienced the wildest torrential downpours, which meant, at times, we couldn’t hear the tv (or ourselves think) over the thunderous sound of rain on plastic. I sent so many videos to family and friends... it was hysterical. We have since replaced all but one skylight with glass, and will be updating the final, largest skylight over our stairwell, in August.

We also plan on installing a new wood stove in our dining area and updating the surrounding tiles, which should help mitigate the cost of our main heating source: electric ba$eboard (if you know, you know), and infuse a touch of modernity in that space.

There’s so much to work with in our home, if anything – it’s asking for less, not more. The updates we make are focused on paring back to better showcase the existing features. The slant of a vaulted ceiling, the gleam of a mid-century pendant light, the textures and colours of nature, outside and around, but equally such a presence in our home.

10. Do you have a favourite spot to sit in your home?

Without a doubt on the couch in our living room facing the wood-panelled fireplace, flanked by two large windows, with views onto the garden and an impressive, sinewy corkscrew willow tree.

In the colder months, when the foliage thins, we get a peekaboo ocean view and incredible sunsets. Often, racoons visit (the other current tenants of this property) or birds of prey perch in the branches...

This room took our breath away on our first visit, and I will never tire of it!

About Food

11. 3 things that are always in your fridge and 3 things that are always in your pantry.

In my fridge at all times, otherwise someone is in trouble:

• Enough parmesan cheese to feed a small city, yet inexplicably only lasts two people one month,

• Avalon cream for coffee, and

• Salted butter.

Non-negotiable pantry items:

• Extra virgin olive oil,

• Dark chocolate, and

• Decaf Salt Spring Island coffee.

12. 3 things that you wish were always in your fridge and 3 things that you wish were always in your pantry?

My dream fridge situation:

• Homemade pesto,

• A crisp Gerolsteiner sparkling water, and

• Champagne, just in case.

My dream pantry situation:

• Honey from my dad’s bees,

• Maldon salt, and

• Six backup jars of Castelvetrano olives.

13. Favourite kitchen utensil / gadget?

My mocha pot and Aarke kettle are by far my most beloved and utilized kitchen tools. Otherwise, I would say I am fairly minimalistic when it comes to cookware/gadgets, with the exception of my ever-growing collection of Scandinavian stainless-steel bowls and serving trays.

14. Favourite meal growing up?

Pasta and, specifically, pasta pesto/pesto pasta (a good Italian would know whether “pesto” comes before or after). My dad has the most prolific greenhouse, generating more basil than you’d think possible.

15. A meal on heavy rotation these days?

Always a focus on nourishing but simple. Lately I have been making a Mediterranean white bean dish, with baby tomatoes, fresh parsley, lemon, coriander, and parmesan. So easy and so good!

16. And a quick, healthy snack you always have on hand?

We always have apples and cheese on hand, which is a go-to for me. Admittedly, I am not a big snacker during the day. I am, however, a fan of the “chef’s snack”– a few bites to tide me over when I am on cooking duty. Usually an assortment of carrot sticks, olives, and parmesan. Anyone else?

17. How do you stay hydrated throughout the day?

The thing about my household is – the kettle has never known one moment of peace. It’s a constant rotation of herbal teas and warm water (something I swore I would never do when my mom first introduced the concept in my youth – a health nut before her time).

That said, I have long harboured a suspicion that I have never been properly hydrated a day of my life, so I am not sure I am an authority on this subject!

About Style

18. How often do you purge your wardrobe? Any advice on that?

There is no set schedule or process, but as a rule of thumb – I see buying something new as an opportunity to let something go. Ideally, I am going through this mental checklist as I make a purchase – asking myself if the item fills a gap or replaces/elevates an item I own. More of a gradual process than grand overhauls.

That said, my best advice has less to do with purging, than an approach to building a wardrobe that favours authenticity and intentionality. I like to keep a running wishlist on my phone that acts as a guideline and litmus test. I’ve noticed that, at times, I may add an item to the list, only to remove it the next day! I am also a big fan of the “walk away, and if you are still thinking about it...” method, which has its risks alongside its rewards.

My philosophy and approach can best be summarized by a quote from Vivienne Westwood: “buy less, choose well, make it last”.

19. What’s one item in your wardrobe you’ll likely never get rid of?

A few pieces that I’ve inherited from family come to mind - a chunky stone and silver ring from my grandmother, a gold watch and a silk Chanel scarf from my great grandmother...

Besides that, I thrifted a gorgeous wool Emporio Armani blazer that I will never part with.

20. Who’s your style muse?

I am drawn to individuals with a uniform, a distinct point-of-view, and a simple, (seemingly) effortless approach to dressing. Audrey and Katharine Hepburn come to mind. The specifics might not totally align with my personal taste, but there is a considered approach and consistency that I strive to emulate.

That said, I think the pieces I have acquired that define my style the most come from a gut feeling – an immediate yes that isn’t overly referenced or intellectualized.

21. 3 words to describe your style, go…

I would say that my style is modern, understated, and refined.

& Everything else

22. What’s one trend you’re currently loving and hoping to stay for the long haul?

I hear more people talking about natural fibers – which I am partial to! Additionally, while I am not sure I would call it a trend, I am loving an emphasis on vintage and pre-loved for the wardrobe and home.

Shopping second-hand has singlehandedly transformed my spaces and personal style. It is a practice in patience (there is no immediacy in thrifting a specific item, the antithesis to the convenience culture of consumerism today), intentionality, restraint, and care.

Perusing through racks of clothing or stacks of homeware, you learn to sharpen your eye - noting material composition, shape, and potential. Further, the nature of pre-loved is that you can’t easily replace it, which has taught me the value of preserving my things, to make them last. There’s nothing like the thrill of sourcing quality, unique pieces, with the intention of keeping them forever!

My friend Liv and I always say – if the community isn’t fighting over our estate sale, we didn’t do it right. That’s the north star!

23. You decide to treat yourself. How do you indulge?

One of my favourite (infrequent) treats is a facial. I recently went to Bernstein and Gold and left levitating.

Otherwise, a glass of wine and a good read in a scalding hot bath.

24. How do you typically spend a day off?

An ideal day off involves the following:

• A coffee out and treat with a friend and/or a good book,

• A “new walk”, which my partner is tasked with researching/routing for us,

• A peruse through local vintage stores,

• A happy hour with friends (Humboldt Bar and Stage are favourites), and

• A special dinner at-home (the current go-to is steak frites and our version of a lazy caesar salad. We really enjoy trying new cuts from our local butcher!)

A typical/realistic day off is maybe two of those things, a long walk in the neighborhood, and house projects or chores.

25. What’s the last hobby you picked up just for fun?

I started a bookclub with my friend Morgan in January of 2025. As a lifelong reader, it has been a joy to come together with a group of individuals that bring their perspectives, opinions, and literary tastes to the table. I often find myself reflecting on the thoughtful comments that were shared during our discussions.

Otherwise, I am keen to learn more about gardening now that we have a yard of our own. I have a distinct vision of what I would like to create, and have been slowly soliciting advice from more knowledgeable friends and family.

26. What’s a smell that takes you back to your childhood?

The first time I watered our garden on a warm, spring evening, I was instantly transported to summertime, picking vegetables for dinner in my parent’s potager.

Also, is anything more nostalgic than the scent of a freshly cut lawn or sun-bleached linens drying on a clothesline?

27. When’s the last time a stranger made you smile?

I smile a lot at strangers for fear of offending someone I might know, while out and about, because I am terribly near-sighted and never wear my glasses!

28. What’s something you still find magical, no matter how old you get?

The thrill of finishing, and starting, a novel; the unfamiliar and promising sounds emanating from an open window, the first morning of a holiday; exiting the theatre into broad daylight after a solo movie matinee.

29. One place in the world you’re dying to visit?

My partner and I plan to visit Mexico next year, which has been very high on my list. We don’t have an itinerary finalized, but I am Mexico City and Oaxaca curious. As a water child, coastal towns will be on our radar.

30. What’s a movie you’ve seen recently that left a big impact on you?

Past Lives, which was pensive and profound. I cried at the end watching the characters make silent amends for all the words left unsaid, for everything that could have been.

31. Guilty pleasure?

Putting one million items in my thredup or the realreal carts that I cannot, in any good conscience or sanity, possibly check-out on.

32. What’s the last thing you bought that you’re really excited about?

A cream Jcrew rollneck sweater.... from thredup.... and a vintage wool rug for our living room.

33. What do you miss?

The simplicity and endlessness of youth. A day could stretch to feel like forever. At this age, I find that a month passes in the blink of an eye.

34. What no longer impresses you?

This question gave me pause! In part because I think that, as I get older, interpersonally I look to be inspired, engaged, humoured, seen, considered. Increasingly, I am seeking levity and ease, and less to be impressed.

All to say, what no longer impresses me might be the opposite of those things: taking oneself too seriously and overcomplicating.

35. Song currently on repeat?

To be perfectly transparent, I go through long stretches of time where I am not listening to music (is that a red flag?). I get a “podcasts wrapped” at the end of the year.

That said, I am loving Olivia Dean. Her voice personifies this time of year to me – the sweetness, excitement, and nostalgia that accompany the transition from spring to summer.

36. Favourite form of movement / exercise?

I have been devoted to at-home mat Pilates for nearly a decade now - and have yet to find a more effortless way to incorporate consistent movement into my life.

My partner likes to joke that it is the perfect modality for me because there are few other workouts that you can stop and put a wash in midway.... very my speed.

Otherwise, anyone that knows me knows that I walk everywhere.

37. If you could rename yourself, what name would you choose?

There might have been a time I would have had a different answer, but now I can’t imagine being named anything other than Flavia!

My great grand aunt, Maud Waddell, was the author Daphne Du Maurier’s lifelong friend and governess (my mother is an archivist, and we have letters from Daphne preserved at my childhood home). While pregnant with me, my mom was reading a Du Maurier biography where she learned of the name Flavia (after one of Daphne’s daughters).

It feels fitting, given my lifelong passion for reading, that my name should have been discovered in a book.

38. How do you handle stress on busy days?

A long walk, fresh florals, a cry, a cozy meal, a bath, and an early bedtime so I can start fresh the next day.

39. Tell me a bit about what you do for work.

I work in project management and coordination within the Ministry of Education and Child Care. As a self-professed type-A person – I am not surprised that we ended up here.

Candidly, in my career, I have at times regretted not pursuing a more creative path, but with age, I’ve come to appreciate the foundation my job has built for me; allowing me to work alongside wonderful people, and travel and grow outside of the parameters of my workday. I am also blessed to be surrounded by (and vicariously live through) many creative, passionate, and inspiring friends.

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☀️ You only get 1 summer with your baby
🌿 3 with your toddler
✨ 9 with your child
💛 5 with your teenager

But only ONE with your baby.

Realizing how incredibly fleeting this season is, I want to make this summer special, but I also don’t want to fall into the trap of overcommitting myself, or worse, feeling guilty about NOT having enough plans.

This season feels less about checking things off a summer bucket list and more about building simple, enjoyable rhythms into our days. Figuring out our pace as parents has felt intuitive and natural so far, and we’re just going to build on that.

Instead of chasing a picture-perfect summer, I'm focusing on creating one that feels authentic to our season of life right now. Putting on my bikini in the morning just to hang outside in the backyard all day. Picking the juiciest looking fruit I can find at the market and eating it over the sink (in said bikini top). Inviting friends over for a game of cards and libations once Wes is asleep. Low stakes commitments.

That’s the kind of summer I’m after.

One of the greatest gifts of maternity leave is the freedom to move through the day without constantly rushing from one thing to the next. This summer will be slow and steady. This summer will be a Jane Birkin mom summer.

Here’s to:

• music, toys, and open windows

• never brushing your hair

• woven baskets filled with books and produce

• crisp cotton shirts

• naps under trees

• flowers in every room

• baby dressed in just diapers

• winkled linen dresses

• babies tagging along to cafes and markets

• bonnets and smocked rompers

  you know the drill! if you like what you see, please subscribe, like, share, or comment below :)

The solstice is just around the corner, so here are 8 things to do as a new mom this summer

1. Get an annual pass somewhere close by

For me, that’s the Butchart Gardens: a 122-year-old world famous 55-acre display garden. It’s about a 15 minute drive from my home, and an absolutely lovely place to wander and stroll, baby in tow. A couple of my close mom friends also have passes, and we try to go weekly. After doing the routine walk through the sunken garden, the ponds, and rose bushes, we take a seat and order our affagatos from the cafeteria. We’re currently waiting with bated breath for the immaculate lawns to open up for picnicking.

For you, this could be anything from the local zoo, an aquarium, a rec center, museum, art gallery, or park. Knowing you have the option to go somewhere familiar on any given day is so nice when you need to get out of the house with the baby. This summer, become a regular somewhere!

2. Weekly farmers markets

Pop baby in the stroller or in the carrier, grab a market bag and go! I have really struggled to keep a stocked fridge through out my mat leave — I’m usually so disappointed whenever I open the fridge doors these days. That’s why I’m vowing to go to the weekly farmers market. Wes will love to look at all the colourful fruits and vegetables at all the vendors, and I’ll hopefully be inspired to cook something. He’s eating solids now, so it feels like the perfect time for both of us to get excited about food. I can’t wait to fill my woven market bag with whatever looks good that week.

3. Short and sweet beach and park hangs

The key here is frequency over length of time. We’re now at the age where nap times actually matter, which means, gone are the days of heading out in the morning and casually staying out until dinner. Now, we try our best to follow wake windows for Wes, which means we try not to plan anything overly ambitious, just enough time to get outside, soak up some sunshine, and let Wesley experience a change of scenery before heading home for naps and a reset. These outings don't need to be long to be worthwhile. We’re lucky to have so many beautiful beaches and parks nearby. The car will be full of sand all summer long, and that’s fine by me.

4. Invest in your backyard

If your home is your safe spot, and being out and about for too long causes you stress, let’s make that home the most enjoyable space it can be! Our backyard could use some professional intervention (lol), but my husband and I have spent countless hours over the past few months cleaning it up and making it as enjoyable as we can for right now. It’s definitely still a huge work in progress, but even those small improvements have made a difference. Being able to have a space outside where I can work out, sit in the sun, or read a book while Wesley sleeps and I drink iced coffees feels like a little luxury these days. I currently have my eyes on this jute rug or this even more affordable option to make it cozier. I also love this lovely patio set (from Walmart!).

5. Buy a film camera or a video camera

Something that has been sitting on my to-do list all year is buying a film camera. The photos don’t have to be perfect, in fact, it’s better if they’re not. As the months go by, I find myself regretting not getting one sooner. Or even a little handheld video camera. I remember my parents using a video camera while we were growing up —I’d love to get my hands on that footage!

The first six months of my baby’s life has flashed before my eyes, and I really want to start capturing the milestones analog style. The messy high chair meals, the sweet outfits, bath time; the little moments that feel so ordinary.

I also love the idea of putting together a photo album from his first year. So many of our photos live on our phones and rarely get looked at again, I want something tangible. So I’m making it official: I will capture this summer on film.

6. Find your mom style

I’m been having a lot of fun with this one. Getting dressed for the day is always a sure fire way to turn my day around if I feel like I’ve woke up on the wrong side of the bed (or just didn’t get enough sleep). My algorithm has been slowly morphing into mom-fluencers, and while it’s a bit repetitive and annoying, I have been getting a lot of outfit ideas and specific links. Summer is my favourite season to dress for, because its arguably the least expensive and least complicated.

Some pieces I recently got and love:

• Le Summer Short

• Zara dress

• Jenny Bird anklet

• Light weight striped sweater

• Striped jeans

• Jelly shoes

• Light weight denim jacket

• Everyday perfect summer dress

7. Friday night ice cream

I used to live very close to a very good ice cream shop, and one summer, I decided that I’d get ice cream every single Friday night. I’d hop on my vespa, rip across the bridge and get a split single of whatever I was feeling that day — usually a pistachio or something tart. I’d like to bring that tradition back. Even though the ice cream is entirely for me, and not for Wesley (we may give him a few licks) it’s still a sweet thing to do as a family. Since Wes is going to be 7-9 months old for summer, his added-sugar free ice cream alternative will be:

• Mashed banana and yogurt frozen into popsicle molds

• Pureed mango or peach frozen into a baby-safe feeder

8. Take time for just YOU

One hill I will die one is that you NEED to make time to do things for just you. It’s healthy and necessary to take some time away from your baby. Maybe it’s a cheeky mani-pedi, a workout class, a facial, lunch with a friend, or simply sitting in a coffee shop with your book for an hour. Maybe you can't manage a full weekend away (I certainly can't right now), or even an entire day to yourself. But chances are, you can carve out an hour here and there to do something that fills your own cup.

The other day, my friend sent a text that said, “wow mom I understand why you smoked because it’s just selfish and just for you and you really need that and those moments as a mom”.

Maybe you don’t need to take up smoking, but go on, indulge in your vice a little. You’re still you, after all.

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I’m ready for summer. The heat is slowly creeping in, and I can’t downplay my lifelong tendency to pine for this season. It’s always been this way. As a child, I would make long summer bucket lists every year. The activities ranged from “Try every DQ Blizzard flavour” (I did) to “Sleep outside on the trampoline” (it’s not very fun). I’ve always romanticized summer and expected the most from it. I love the version of myself that suddenly comes alive the moment it’s 25 degrees outside. I am a fire sign, after all.

But this summer will undoubtedly look different than the ones before it. I have a wonderfully low-key few months ahead. One wedding on the Sunshine Coast in June, a trip to Kelowna in July, a weekend at a friends cabin on the lake in August, and that’s about it.

Perhaps the biggest plan has already happened: a trip to Ontario to visit the family, just me and baby. I was nervous about the flight, but it went better than I expected. I’ve heard this from others but the window before your baby becomes truly mobile is prime travel time. If trips to far-flung, exotic destinations were in the budget right now (instead of the equally exciting destination of Ontario), I would say anywhere from 2-6 months is really the time to go for it.

As I reflect on the first half of my maternity leave, two things stand out. First, how absurdly fast time is passing. And second, how deeply I adore this season of my life, and how much I don’t want it to end.

And so, for perhaps the first time ever, I’m genuinely excited for the quietest summer I’ve had in years. No grand bucket list. No ambitious travel plans. But if there’s one thing I’m good at, it’s romanticizing my life. So while the schedule may be sparse, I’ll be doing my best to make it feel like the most special summer yet.

I’m also feeling the summer shoppies, so either sorry or you’re welcome for all the links and outfit ideas below (these jeans are my latest fixation, thanks to Ro). I too can’t help myself and have done some damage, despite telling myself I am cut off. You know how it goes.

May was great, here’s what I have to say about it:

1. READ — Unfortunately, the only book I finished in May was Yesteryear, and it really wasn’t for me. I’m not saying that to be contrarian; I genuinely didn’t think it was very good. Trendy books are always a bit hit-or-miss for me, and this one was firmly in the miss category.

   One book that has piqued my interest, though, is Lost Lambs. I started listening to the audiobook on Spotify one day, and was immediately drawn in by how strange it was. It’s another buzzy recent release, but this one leans much more bizarre and abstract. It’s reminding me a bit of The Virgin Suicides in its tone and mood. I’m going to wait for a copy to come through the library before continuing, because I have a feeling it’s the kind of book I’d enjoy much more in physical form rather than listening to it on my runs.

   
   Other books on my summer reading list include:

   

2. EAT — I must be the last girl on the internet to discover Farm Girl cereal, but consider me converted. A 0 grams of sugar, high protein and fiber cereal option that tastes like cinnamon toast crunch, and is actually so good. I get excited for my daily bowl. Sometimes I'll have it first thing in the morning before a proper breakfast, otherwise, it's usually the last thing I eat at night when I need something to satisfy a snacky evening craving. Highly recommend for your next Costco haul.

3. BUY — I had a credit expiring at Jenny Bird, so I used it as the perfect excuse to buy this anklet, which I can confidently say is absolute perfection. Doesn’t an anklet just scream summer to you? Only a toe ring would even come close to rivaling it, but I don’t want to draw that much attention to my feet. I also bought this Zara dress that made an appearance on last month’s wish list. It’s short, sweet, and exactly the kind of thing I’ll spend all summer throwing over a bathing suit before heading to the beach. These two items alone make me feel summer ready. Sometimes it really doesn’t take much.

   

4. WATCH — I finished season 5 of Couples Therapy (mixed feelings about it TBH) and I’m still watching Euphoria (mixed feelings about it TBH). What I really want is a show to pull me all the way in, strong from the start. I know I’ll love Beef 2 (because I loved Beef 1), and I’m curious about Steve Carrels Rooster as well as Richard Gadd’s (creator of Baby Reindeer) Half man. Hoping for better reporting in this category in next months dispatch!

5. WEAR — For my friend Sophia’s wedding, I wore this cheeky dress. But after two weddings, I’m ready to pass it along to someone else. Which got me thinking: should I start an Instagram account dedicated to selling wedding guest dresses? Mine, but also other people’s. A carefully curated collection of beautiful dresses that have only been worn once or twice, all at way more approachable prices than buying new. After all, how many wedding guest dresses do we buy only to have them spend the next five years sitting in a closet?

6. For mothers day, all I wanted was a picnic in the park with some wood fired pizza and a beer or two. I don’t know what’s gotten into me postpartum, but I have been loving drinking. Nothing crazy, of course, but a cold beer on a sunny afternoon or a crisp glass of white wine at the end of the day has never tasted quite so good. The sun was shining, and the park was buzzing with other families who seemed to have the exact same idea (maybe sans the drinking). After our picnic, we wandered through the rose garden and around the ponds before finishing the afternoon with an ice cream sandwich (pictured above).

7. I’m a dairy girlie, and while I'd love to have farm-fresh jersey cow milk on tap, that's not exactly an option. Instead, I buy Avalon milk from the grocery store and save all of the glass bottles. Once I've accumulated about a dozen, I take them to my favourite specialty grocery store in town and cash them in for the bottle deposit credit. It’s usually enough to justify a little treat I wouldn’t normally buy for myself—a wedge of fancy cheese, a really good butter, or a jar of jam that costs more than jam probably should. It’s one of my favourite small-life hacks. Technically, it’s money I’ve already spent, but it always feels like I’ve been handed a little gift card for something delicious.

   

8. One sunny Saturday was spent at Sombrio Beach, about a 90-minute drive from Victoria, with a group of friends. I hadn’t been down there in a long time, and I don’t know why we don’t make day trips out there more often — Chris goes all the time to surf, I should join him more. The ocean sparkled in the sun, dotted with eager surfers, while families stretched out on picnic blankets across the wide sandy beach. Our friends made loaded bagels, everyone got a little sun-kissed, and for a few hours there was nowhere else we'd rather be.

   

9. For Wes’ six-month birthday, I made a last-minute decision to hop on the ferry and take him to Salt Spring Island. Some friends were camping there for the weekend, and I’d been wanting to wander through the Saturday farmers’ market. The real stars of the day, though, were these pastel poppies, which completely stole the show. I picked up a jar of Salt Spring Island chili oil (a favourite), a couple of thank-you cards, and a balloon to celebrate my boy turning six months old.

10. I’ve had this 24x24 print by Lauren Mycroft sitting on my dresser since November, waiting to be framed. I kept meaning to get around to it, but you know how these things go. I also knew that framing something this size wouldn’t be cheap, so I’d been putting off even looking into my options. I was pleasantly surprised, then, when I checked out Opus Art Supplies. I ended up getting a simple custom white frame for $150. One of those satisfying little life tasks that took almost no time at all and made me wonder why I hadn’t done it months ago.

11. I finally pulled the trigger on lime washing the walls in my bedroom and, honestly, just try and stop me from doing every wall in my house now. It’s that good. I went with the colour Bone from Pure & Original. It wasn’t cheap, and there are definitely more affordable brands out there, but it came highly recommended by a designer friend and I’m so happy with how it turned out.

    When I look back at before photos, I’m genuinely shocked by how sterile and stark the room felt with white walls. The lime wash brought in so much warmth and movement—it feels softer, cozier, and infinitely more interesting.

    

12. Next up in the bedroom refresh: new bedding. I've been completely enamoured with the dusty blue and chocolate brown colour combination lately, so I set out to find linen bedding in exactly those shades, and the best option hands down that I found was from Resthouse. I'd previously slept on a linen-cotton blend, and I really went back and forth on whether to try cotton this time, but I can’t deny how comfy and soft linen bedding is. I am beyond happy with my choice. I went with the pillowcases in Cloud Grey, which is more like a muted, dusty baby blue than their Sky Blue option, which felt a touch too vibrant for the look I was after. I paired it with a chocolate brown fitted sheet and a neutral duvet cover, and I’m obsessssssed with how serene the cooler tones feel.
    Resthouse is offering a 10% discount on all sheets and pillows with code LOVESLEEP10.

    

13. One thing I’ve known since the beginning of my postpartum journey is that I wanted to host fitness classes for new moms. Finding time to move your body after having a baby can be really hard, and I wanted to offer an option for moms to bring their babies, get a workout in, and connect with other women in the same season of life. So me and my friend Jojo—a movement enthusiast with an incredible gift for making fitness feel fun, accessible, and empowering—got together hosted our first Mama’s & Mini’s class on her family’s farm. It was exactly the kind of afternoon I’d hoped for: babies along for the ride, moms moving their bodies, and plenty of chatting and community-building in between. The response was positive so we’re planning to make it a monthly thing throughout the summer. Next one will be held on Thursday June 25!

14. I have these loafers in black leather, but Poppy Barley recently gifted me a pair in hazelnut suede, and again, I absolutely love them. I wore them on a day trip into Toronto and clocked over 25,000 steps without a single complaint from my feet. They’re incredibly comfortable.
    KAROLINA25 gets you $25 off applicable Poppy Barley orders $200+

    

15. As someone who has had melasma for more than a decade at this point, the sunscreen I use on myself needs to be high quality, strong, and reliable. I opt for SPF 50 or higher, and have been using a La Roche Posay chemical sunscreen. But for my baby, I personally wanted a gentler option; a mineral based sunscreen with as minimal ingredients as possible. I’ve been super happy with this one from Primally Pure — ingredients are impressive and simple and it blends in pretty well.
    Code: KAROLINACOOK for 10% off anything PP :)

    

    ---

    10 things on my wish list:

1. Everyone wants the Ona bag, but what about the Dumpling bag?

2. This one came home with me when I decided I’m going to be showing off more leg this summer.

3. I tried this jacket (isn’t she giving Jung Maven?) on in person and it’s an exceptionally good for the price point.

4. The perfect thing to throw on when it starts to cool off in the evening.

5. To match with the dumpling bag, of course.

6. My friend Jojo rocks these pants like no ones business. They feel exactly like silk but without the drama.

7. This adorable phone bag.

8. Anything to help the postpartum melasma.

9. This frilly Cecile Bahsen x Uniqlo t shirt is a nice casual option on any given day.

10. Or, opt for this shirring sleeveless tank, and get the matching skirt while you’re at it.

11. I thought I’d buy these in red, but I got the opportunity to try them on in person, and the white are better (spoiler: I bought them)

5 fun links

• Really enjoyed this: No One in Europe is Dressed like Emily in Paris

• Sauna Enthusiasts on their Sweating Routine

• This website pairs your location to a Rothko painting

  

• What Parisians are wearing when its hot

• This is hilariously on point: How to Dress like a Substack Mom

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We spent Easter weekend in Squamish with family, which seemed to kick off the stretch of sunny weather that followed for nearly the entire month… aside from the two days we took Wes to Tofino in the camper van, where it poured 45 mm of rain in a single day. Suffice it to say, we packed up and left a night early. Other than that, it’s genuinely felt like summer already.

I’ve been spending quite of bit of time outside in our backyard and I really wish we had some more cohesive patio furniture. Right now it feels a little sparse and mismatched. That project will likely have to wait until next summer though, as my focus and funds are going towards my bedroom upgrade (more on that in next months dispatch) — though, I did see Giuliana post about this shockingly good and affordable patio set from Walmart (!!!!?)

Chris and I have birthdays exactly 2 weeks apart in April. Some years are gift years, and some years are not. In lieu of gifts, we try to really make the day special through actions. With this being our first year with a baby, both birthdays were low-key and relaxed, each of us trying to take on as much parenting duty as possible so the other could have time to themselves.

No grand plans, no extravagant purchases — and honestly, I’m kind of excited about that being the theme of our summer too. We’re intentionally leaning into a slower, simpler season right now. We already live in such a beautiful part of the world, and I want to fully appreciate it: farmers markets, daily beach trips, island hopping, evenings outside. It’s going to be a first-time-mom-summer, and I’m planning on taking everything in through Wes’ eyes.

Mat leave continues to be so delightful, especially as 3 more of my close friends either just had, or are about to have babies. Chris and I were talking the other night about how parenting hasn’t necessarily been “easier” or even “better” than we expected, but it has been far more positive than we imagined. Especially as my village, and my little mom community, continues to grow.

1. READ —
   Perfume & Pain by Anna Dorn is a darkly funny, messy, and satirical novel about a struggling writer whose life is kind of spiraling in an entertaining and chaotic way. The storyline touches on modern messy relationships, queer dynamics, cancel culture, reputation in the internet age and the chaos of trying to “get your life together”. Very sharp, funny and quite a bit outrageous. 3.5/5 ⭐⭐⭐.5
   

   Show Don’t Tell by Curtis Sittenfeld is a collection of short stories that pull you in so quickly and efficiently, you’ll forget that it’s not the entire plot of the book. Most of the stories are about the characters reflecting on their lives; sometimes looking back, sometimes facing uncomfortable truths in the present. Lots of awkward social situations, modern dilemmas and relationship dynamics. I really liked it. 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

2. WATCH — I finally wrapped up The Pitt (so good), and I’m still obviously keeping up with Survivor (only two episodes left), but we’ve also been getting pulled into Top Chef: World All-Stars, which airs right after Survivor, and it’s surprisingly entertaining. Outside of that, I carved out some solo time to see Project Hail Mary, which was a very endearing and feel good movie. It also led to me re-watching the seminal Harry Styles music video for Sign of the Times. I think that was my favourite scene in the movie.

3. WEAR — I can’t stop wearing this lacey blouse with this fun big beaded necklace on repeat. The top is very Jane Birkin. ‘What Would Jane Birkin Wear’ might be my guiding principle this summer. The answer? White dresses (a little wrinkled), oversized button down shirts, anything with lace accents, a woven basket instead of a handbag or anything that feels like it could’ve been picked up at a market in the South of France.

   

4. 5. EAT — 2 good things from Costco right now: the Starbucks knock off spinach & feta egg white wraps, & the Heavenly Hunks Carrot Cake Drizzle bites. It’s also almost time for the Frozen Yogurt bars to become a staple too.

5. LISTEN — I listened to Lena Dunham’s ‘Famesick’ on Spotify and never wanted it to end. The writing is phenomenal, so funny, and there is quite a bit of tea too. As a big Girls fan, I was especially drawn to the glimpses into what was unfolding off-camera during its peak. Lena talks extensively about her relationship to Jack Antonoff, which was why I was so intrigued to see him recently on Armchair Expert. I equally enjoyed listening to him, and found it both beautiful and heartbreaking to hear him speak with such reverence about this wife Margaret Qualley, while notably, not mentioning Lena at all. I also had no idea that this was Jack Antonoff’s song. His band — Bleachers —new album comes out on May 22, and I am looking forward to listening to the song that Dax dances to in the interview.

6. I took it upon myself to make my husband a birthday cake (before I knew that it would be a fussy day for my child). I used my friend Britt’s tried and true recipe, and it was a big hit! I subbed regular milk for oat milk (she told me coconut milk would also work in case you’re DF) and added about 1/2 tbsp of cardamom powder. It’s actually pretty simple to make but looks very impressive. Use this recipe next time you’re on cake duty for a celebration.

7. The annual TC10km race in downtown Victoria was held on the last Sunday of April and I decided to participate for the first time since 2022. Back then, I was running consistently, and finished the race in 43 minutes. I knew this year wasn’t going to be a year for a PB but I did set a goal of trying to finish somewhere between 46-49 minutes minutes, which I somehow mustered up the strength to do. It was a beautiful 20 degree day with lots of sunshine, friends, and good energy pulsing through the air. It’s so easy to get the running itch after doing a race. I’ve got big plans to run the RVM in October, and have some work to do.

   

8. We were blessed with some seriously sunny days in April, especially near the end of the month. We took full advantage of them, heading to the beach, even if it was just for an hour. I remember when we lived in Mexico, there was a 6 month old baby named Zavi that would be at the beach for sunset every night, sitting and playing in the sand, truly living his best life. I was obsessed with him and his carefree life. I loved how beautifully simple their family dynamic seemed, and took note of how relaxed his parents looked.

   

9. For my birthday this year we had a flower potluck. I asked my nearest and dearest to bring one type of flower, enough stems for everyone in attendance, so that we could all create our own unique fresh flower bouquets to bring home. We had spray mums, gerbera daisies, thistle berries, hyacinths, tulips of course, et cetera. It was a really sweet spring activity, one I’d like to do annually every April. With it being my birthday month, the house was full of flowers all month long.

   

10. A few months before Wes was born I bought some cute oversized graphic T’s for him from Gap that I thought were adorable. At the time, 6 months seems so far away. Now, it’s basically here. I just started dressing him in these oversized shirts and the fit is so good. Always look for a boxy shape if you like this look. These ones are now sold out, but this one is cute.

    

11. There’s a Salvation Army near my neighbourhood that I’ve dropped donations off at countless times, but had never actually taken the time to browse. I finally asked my husband to watch the baby so I could do a proper, uninterrupted thrift… and it was such a dopamine hit. First find: a pair of corduroy pants for $2.99, marked down because of a small stain that completely disappeared in the wash. Then, a perfectly oversized, vintage-feeling graphic tee featuring the twins from The Shining. I’ve been wearing it a lot. A pair of purple Havaianas for $5. A blue babydoll dress that somehow fits like it was made for me. And my favourite of all: a handmade ceramic mug that says “Matriarch of the Blenkiron Clan.” Naturally, we looked up “Blenkiron Victoria,” which led us to one of the best obituaries I’ve ever read, for a man named Ron Blenkiron. He sounded like quite the dude.

“During his life, he managed to burn down his church, partied one New Year’s with JFK and family, and smuggle diamonds out of revolutionary Cuba.”

12. Somehow, someway, I’ve been in good routine of doing at home workouts. This is no small feat as I, much like many people I know, find working out at home incredibly difficult to a. be motivated to do, b. push myself enough and c. be consistent with it. We have a spacey enough backyard that gets quite a bit of direct sun, and I’ve been spending some time out there. I find that just having my mat and weights out visible is a good catalyst for me to just go for it. I aim for 30 minutes, sometimes I do more, sometimes less, but I always feel accomplished if I manage to squeeze one in.

13. After an almost year and a half hiatus, I treated myself to a day at HAVN saunas for my birthday. The last time I was supposed to go, I found out I was pregnant and had to cancel. My favourite way to HAVN is alone, with a book, on a sunny day, either late morning or early afternoon. I go back to Ontario at the end of this month and I’m booking myself a day at Thermea. Anyone from Ontario read this newsletter and can let me know what you think of it?

    

14. One of my close friends is getting married in a couple of weeks, so we spent the weekend in Jordan River for her bachelorette. We rented a big house with a sauna, and the whole thing felt very cozy and wonderfully low-key. Babies came. Dogs came too. It was less wild getaway, more soft little communal retreat, exactly the kind of weekend I love these days. The babies both slept like angels, which meant the mamas were equally proud and relieved. Wes hasn’t slept that well since, naturally. One notable hack from the weekend: cut up orange slices, fold them into a rose shape inside an ice cube tray, then pour water and freeze. Use these next time you make an Aperol Spritz.

15. If you know someone who’s a bit witchy, these Reading To Go cards are such a good gift idea. They come with 3 beautifully designed tarot cards, randomly drawn from the full deck. This was included in the birthday card my SIL sent me and I thought it was just genius.

10 things on my wish list

1. New bed linens in this sky blue (pillow cases), chocolate (fitted sheet), and natural (duvet cover) colour combo.

2. These funky striped pants that seem too good to be Zara. My SIL bought and can confirm that they are amazing (and true to size).

3. Another TGTBT Zara piece that I thought for sure was Hunza G.

4. Ok, last (but certainly not least) one from Zara. I’ll be in this all summer long baby!

5. I want need this rug SO bad it hurts.

6. The Donni dupes that broke the internet are back in select sizes.

7. Zebra print is the new cheetah print, there I said it!

8. Anklet season is upon us.

9. One thing that’s missing from my wardrobe is a pair of strappy sandals.

10. An effortless beauty that would be so easy to throw on any given summer day.

5 fun links

• Emma Chamberlains Met Gala dress fitting

• Daisy Edgar Jones is sweet as pie

• Getting Glam to hike the Pacific Crest Trail

BROWN: Totally. You’re a different breed. I love that through and through you stay looking so cute. You’re doing your nails, you have your cute hiking outfits.

RENAE: Oh, girl. I don’t think I could make it through the hike if my nails weren’t pink and I wasn’t wearing my outfits because I’d be depressed. I literally would be depressed. There’s no longevity in that. And if I’m happier, I hike so much better. For me, it’s more just about enjoying my days. I want to finish and that’s my goal, but at the same time I also really like to emphasize the journey.

• I liked this interview with Lena Góra, whom I did not know of, but now really want to see Erupcja

What do you do that’s bad for you?

Oh gosh, I hope nothing. I fully believe that your thoughts are absolutely responsible for your reality. Your reality is serving you with everything you are ready to allow. Which is why a cig, if smoked with coffee over a great discussion, or drinking a glass of wine while writing or reading, just can’t be bad for you. If it’s ceremonial it’s okay, but if it becomes something you do when stressed, it turns bad.

• Which ties nicely into this funny article, Should we all start smoking again?
  

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I’ve bumped shoulders with Grace around town a few times, and she’s always come across as genuinely kind and effortlessly elegant. Her content stands out to me, which is not easy in this day and age—I’m always super impressed by the quality and originality of it, and her artistic eye. Simply put, she’s just a cool gal. Let’s all learn a bit more about her below!

About Routine

1. What time do you wake up? Is it different on the weekends?

I typically wake up around 7:00am (weekends included), we sleep with our curtains open so when the sun comes up so do I!

2. Describe the first 30 minutes of your day.

I’m lucky enough to have a fiancé who brings me coffee in bed every morning. Then, I normally get straight to work on my laptop. I have a client on the East Coast so I spend the first part of my morning getting caught up on emails!

3. What’s something you’re currently trying to improve about your routine?

I’ve been getting in the habit of getting more steps and limiting my coffee intake. I was previously a four coffees a day type of person, but the last couple months I have limited this to one coffee and one matcha. I honestly feel way better with less of an afternoon crash, plus, the more low impact movement of walking rather than my previous HIIT training has made such a difference.

What are your holy grail wellness products and practices that you use/do routinely?

I feel like anyone that knows me, knows I’m addicted to The Peach Club. I just adore Hayden and her type of workouts are something that I love in my daily routine. A couple more product focused items would be my Bink water bottle (specifically with the straw) and my vibration plate. Definitely a bit gimmicky but I’ve noticed a difference in my body since introducing it to my routine!

More recently I’ve been trying to improve my dental health game (so random, I know). I worked with SURI on a project back in January and have been using their brush since. I’ve never found an electric toothbrush as gentle and effective as theirs.

5. How do you change your day around if you’re not feeling like your best self?

Something that always makes me feel better is a bath. I also ditch unnecessary tasks I had on my agenda for that day. Dialling it back and keeping it simple always turns my day around.

About Home

6. What is the story behind your home and how long have you lived there?

We moved into our place just over two years ago! It’s a 1910’s Heritage House full of quirk and charm. There’s so many aspects to this place that make me fall more and more in love with it every day. I never realized how much an old home would change my life until we moved in.

What are a few favourite things that you cherish in your home and why?

The original stained glass features throughout the house and built-in vanity are a couple things that make me pinch myself daily. It’s always been a dream of mine to have my own little makeup corner and this place has made it come true.

In the main living space there’s a fireplace made completely out of river rocks. I sadly don’t know the original story behind it, but there’s a bit of a Medieval feel to it. The house also has a few hidden features like a safe hidden behind the fireplace as well as the hidden storage behind the living room walls.

8. What’s been your most impressive secondhand find?

I found an antique room divider that was stained a bright red with all the panels detached. I was able to re-stain and refurbish it so now it’s the same dark tone as the walls in the house. The added texture and ability to separate some spaces off has definitely made this latest find a new favourite!

9. What’s the next thing you’re planning on updating / upgrading in your home?

Since moving in, I’ve played around with adding more modern pieces into a space that already has so much character. Sometimes I find this quite challenging since the space already has so much going on, even with nothing in it. We’re wanting to update our couch covers from our tufted white to something a bit warmer and a different fabric. So that’s top of our list right now!

10. Do you have a favourite spot to sit in your home?

Our breakfast nook has always been a favourite. The skylight above makes the space so bright even on grey days.

About Food

11. 3 things that are always in your fridge and 3 things that are always in your pantry.

Fridge - Chili oil, cottage cheese and cosmic crisp apples

Pantry - Rice cakes, Adams peanut butter (the brand and my fiance’s) and canned salmon from my dad

12. 3 things that you wish were always in your fridge and 3 things that you wish were always in your pantry?

Fridge - Unlimited kombucha, greens and fresh mango salsa

Pantry - Dark chocolate, Balsamic vinegar and bengal spiced tea

13. Favourite kitchen utensil / gadget?

Milk Frother for sure! I’ve been obsessed with a probiotic matcha powder and this gadget has made them 10x better.

14. Favourite meal growing up?

My grandpa used to make Lipton’s chicken noodle soup with a “spin”. He would add handmade egg noodles and for some reason this meal is something I always think about and become overwhelmed with nostalgia.

15. A meal on heavy rotation these days?

Something not so fun, sadly! I had a bit of a health scare in February so we had to fully dial back our meals and go super bland. These meals looked like: Chicken with no spice (salt & pepper included), boiled veggies and white rice. I’ve been slowly adding more things into my diet since!

16. And a quick, healthy snack you always have on hand?

RX bars are definitely my go-to grab and go! Or apples and peanut butter.

17. How do you stay hydrated throughout the day?

Circling back to my favourite water bottle - Bink! Having a straw has made the world of difference for me to want to reach for my water. Also adding in electrolytes for that little bit of flavour has really helped me increase my water intake!

About Style

18. How often do you purge your wardrobe? Any advice on that?

As soon as I realize I’m no longer reaching for an item I ask myself a few questions; Will I miss it? Am I just not reaching for it because it’s been pushed to the back of my closest? Is it something I would want my future kids to have? (this is a hard one for me because I wish my mom kept some of her older clothes for me). Based on my answers I will create a pile to donate / consign!

19. What’s one item in your wardrobe you’ll likely never get rid of?

My 2009 Victoria Secret Pink off the shoulder grey & pink crew neck sweater. Iconic, I know.

20. Who’s your style muse?

My grandma was always dressed to the 9’s no matter the occasion. We called her “Glam-Gram” because she was so chic. I have a couple of her pieces that I wear regularly! Otherwise, I feel like I get inspired from the specific article of clothing, and how to build an outfit around it!

21. 3 words to describe your style, go…

Timeless, refined, intentional

& Everything else…

22. What’s one trend you’re currently loving and hoping to stay for the long haul?

There’s definitely a huge shift into vintage fashion, specifically Edwardian. A lot of my favourite fashion brands are pulling these silhouettes forward and it’s been so inspiring to see. Vintage fashion has always been a true love of mine.

23. You decide to treat yourself. How do you indulge?

Visiting my favourite secondhand and vintage stores! I can never have enough white vintage looks (especially with our wedding coming up later this year). It’s hard to not accumulate too many pieces!

24. How do you typically spend a day off?

With my fiance, Adam! We will usually go for a long walk with a coffee in the morning and end the day at Ritual in Victoria (for a sauna and cold plunge session). It’s always my favourite kind of day!

25. What’s the last hobby you picked up just for fun?

One of my best friends and I have recently been taking tennis lessons! It’s been a learning curve because I’ve never felt SO bad at something before. It’s been so fun to have our scheduled lessons every week and it’s been a great excuse to spend even more time together!

26. What’s a smell that takes you back to your childhood?

Less of a smell but more of a sound! When spring rolls around and I can hear the robins chirping in the morning and the crisp air it reminds me of camping with my family.

27. When’s the last time a stranger made you smile?

Our eighty two year old neighbour (now friend), Jill. I love our daily chats in the garden.

28. What’s something you still find magical, no matter how old you get?

The earth, human energy, kindness, uniqueness. How things (or people) still grow/ persevere after disasters or tragedies. It’s all pure magic.

29. One place in the world you’re dying to visit?

Copenhagen or Egypt!

30. What’s a movie you’ve seen recently that left a big impact on you?

About Time - we watch it every Christmas season and it really puts everyday moments in perspective and reminds you to live in the present.

31. Guilty pleasure?

A Cranberry Lemon Scone from Union Pacific. Reminds me of when I first moved to Victoria.

32. What’s the last thing you bought that you’re really excited about?

The thrifted vintage room divider that I refurbished myself :)

33. What do you miss?

I would consider myself very sentimental which makes me romanticize so many life moments. I dearly miss my grandparents, I miss how naive I was, freshly 20, and I miss seeing my hometown friends everyday!

34. What no longer impresses you?

I’m less impressed by what’s visible on the surface these days, and more by consistency and how people show up over time.

35. Song currently on repeat?

I’m heavy on my 2000’s music train right now! The song “What Are You Waiting For” by Gwen Stefani is number one.

36. Favourite form of movement / exercise?

I absolutely love pilates and heated flow yoga! I always feel revived after and it’s a time where my brain is turned off!

37. If you could rename yourself, what name would you choose?

I’ve always loved my name. Even as a little girl, I just felt like my name was part of my identity. My mom told me she had a dream while pregnant with me where I told her what to name me…

38. How do you handle stress on busy days?

I love writing lists of the tasks from most important to least important for the day. I find this helps me stay organized plus prioritizes things that actually need to be done. I also find visualizing it written down helps me realize it’s actually less than what’s going on in my brain!

My stress builds when I feel “behind” on something, so as long as I continue to push through my check-list I always feel better.

39. Tell me a bit about what you do for work.

I have the privilege of working in the creative world - in a few ways!

I have a marketing company with one of my best friends and we work with a variety of clients. From real estate, jewelry, activewear, swimwear, photography studios, it’s truly a wide range of different brands. In the last year, I’ve also been working on an almost full time basis with my own creative work - posting on Instagram and TikTok. I never thought posting on TikTok in 2020 would lead me to landing some of my dream jobs and brand partners! One I’m recently excited about is a job with Puma X Jil Sander for a shoe collab. Literally a pinch me moment.

When I met my fiance Adam, he had a brand called “Saturday Project”. Since the start of our relationship I’ve been supporting him through this, building the brand up together! The last year or so we’ve been travelling to Paris for trade shows and are now producing a season ahead (which was a huge hurdle). We do everything between the two of us (besides ads - shout out Becca!) From sourcing fabric from Japan, designing, to visiting our factory in Vancouver, it’s definitely a labour of love. I’m so excited for him and it’s been amazing to see the growth of something that he’s poured his heart into!

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The cherry blossoms are popping up all over the city, albeit, I swear they’re later than normal? I remember last year being warmer in general. I remember this because we moved into our house on March 10th, and we didn’t touch the heat at all. It’s too chilly in the mornings and evenings right now to go sans heat.

Thinking back to last March, I’m amazed at all the things that have changed. That was the month I found out I was pregnant, and also moved into our first home. It was a confusing time for me, because these two things are inherently joyous, exciting and overwhelmingly positive, yet I felt completely subdue. I first heard the term antenatal depression in this video, and watching it made me feel validated and normal. I felt very guilty for feeling this way for weeks on end. I knew I had so much to be grateful for and excited about, yet I couldn’t quite get there. Like I said, it was a confusing time.

Fast forward to this past March, and I couldn’t feel more different. Now, I’m happy in a way that I can’t quite grasp, or keep a lid on. One of my favourite things about being on maternity leave is that I feel no pressure to rush about. I’m even slowly letting go of my reputation of being chronically on time (aka early) for everything. In the past, I’d start to feel anxious about timing and being late for something. I don’t feel that way at all anymore. I love texting people: “will be late!”

So far my motherhood experience has been this: complete euphoria and rapture in the first couple newborn months, but living in a low grade flight or fight state, where my body transformed once again, so rapidly before my eyes. My pants, that I couldn’t will to fit just a few weeks prior were now hanging off my body. Then, at 3 months, we entered an early sleep regression, and the adrenaline completely wore off. It was a bit of a reality check for me. There were some hard nights, but we’re now in a good place that doesn’t feel like either of the two above extremes. We’re now in a place that feels sustainable.

I hope you too are entering this new season at a pace that feels sustainable to you. If you’re not, is there a way you can get yourself there?

PS — Happy birthday to my mom! I hope she sees this and smiles.

1. READ —

On The Calculation of Volume 1 - in this novel we follow our narrator Tara, who is strangely caught living and repeating the same November day over and over again. I felt trapped in the monotony of this book. Beautiful prose, but I was expecting more. It read very similarly to I Who Have Never Known Men, so maybe I read these books too closely together to appreciate it but I could not handle another mopey purposeless woman and wandering plot. Sorry, is that mean?

Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage — this book kept me up past my bedtime two days in a row, which is exactly how long it took me to finish it. Have you heard it’s been made into a Netflix film, and Burden is being played by none other than Gwyneth Paltrow? My friend Flavia, who co-hosts the book club I’m in, wrote the following beautiful review:

Captivating, honest, and inspiring - Strangers is a book I truly could not put down.

Burden recounts the sudden rupture of her marriage, and ricochet of consequences, in a language sharp, pointed, and nuanced.

The moments of self-reflection and accountability are honest and unexpected, given what Burden had to live through. The small kindnesses to those that intentionally and inadvertently harmed her, powerful. Time and again, Burden demonstrates how turning towards is the braver choice. Teaching the reader, as she learns herself, how to stay present, loud, and alive.

Strangers did not feel like a lesson or a cautionary tale so much as a voice that lives within us all - that says go on, you can, it might even be wonderful.

-Flavia Sposato

Perfume & Pain — admittedly, I’m still reading this book but I suspect I will get through it pretty quickly. It’s a very fun and silly read so far, and I find myself excited to pick it up. So far, it follows Astrid, a lesbian writer who runs a Zoom writers’ group and has a crush on one of her grad student participants. She’s recently been forced into a new bungalow, where she’s just met her eccentric neighbour, Penelope, who I get the sense is about to become very involved in her life. Astrid is also deeply obsessed with perfume, which is oddly specific, but a fun element to the storyline.

2. WATCH —

I honestly don’t think I watched anything but The Smashing Machine (I liked it) and Survivor 50 all month. Sick.

I started a Survivor 50 Pool with some friends, to make watching each Wednesday more exciting and fun. Here’s how ours work, in case you want to be a copy cat:

WEEKLY PICKS:

• Each week, pick ONE castaway to survive

• If they survive → +2 points

• If they are voted out → -3 points

• You cannot pick the same player twice

FINAL PICKS:

• Pick a Final 3. Each correct Final 3 pick → +10 points

• Pick a Winner. Correct Winner → +20 points

WINNER & BUY IN:

• Highest total points at the end wins

• $20 each, winner takes all

3. WEAR —

I saw that Levi’s was having a sale and immediately got excited because I love my Baggy Dad Barrel jeans, but the pair I bought right after postpartum no longer fits. My plan was to repurchase the same wash in my current size, but I quickly realized the sale was only happening on the US site.

On the Canadian site, the only pair discounted were these off-white, slightly grey-toned ones… not exactly a colour I was drawn to at first. But they were so cheap ($60), I figured it was worth a shot. I went for it.

I’ll admit, I was a bit unsure when I first tried them on, but now I’m fully converted. I’ve been wearing them nonstop, and actually think the colour is really great. My only note is that they seem to run short; I usually order a 30L but wish I got a 32L.

4. LISTEN —

I have the baby with me through the night, and my husband sleeps in our guest room. Wes starts in his bassinet and usually ends up in a King bed with just me. He still wakes multiple times a night. I find it manageable enough, as long as he goes back to sleep relatively easily. He’s been waking up anytime between 6-7 am, and that’s when I’ll call Chris in to come get him. From there, I’m able to sleep for at least a couple more hours. That’s our routine, and it works for us. When I awake, I stumble out of my room in a daze, and I’m always met with my husband and our son listening and grooving to some music. They are currently on an Elvis Presley kick, but I often come out to this song playing, and I really love it.

5. EAT —

I’ve been making banana bread weekly. It’s really nice to have something easy on hand to nibble on. As someone who runs an “ingredients household,” I’ve spent months in a kind of low-level fight-or-flight when it comes to feeding myself, so having a reliable, ready-to-eat option has been a nice change. The recipe I use most often is incredibly straightforward—I’ve shared it below— but I also made this Maple Tahini Swirl Banana Bread everyone now and then and really love it too.

My go-to BB recipe:
3 ripe bananas
1 egg
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 tsp vanilla
+
1 cup APF
1/2 cup almond flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp cinnamon
-
Blend together and bake for 50-55 minutes at 350 F.

6. I’ve been curious about Lime Wash paint for a while, and have decided I’m going to commit and paint my room. I spend a lot of time in my bedroom, and want it to feel more serene, so I’m doing a bit of a bedroom makeover once Wes starts sleeping in his crib (ok so never?). Here’s the plan: I’ll paint the walls myself, get new bedding (my current linens are 5 years old and have major holes), buy this rug, and finally get my Lauren Mycroft print framed. The last missing piece is the light fixture, which I am still thinking on.

7. Have you ever blended soft tofu with melted chocolate and a bit of maple syrup? The result is a shockingly delicious dessert mouse that tastes nothing like tofu. I have been making it often, especially when I have friends over. “Recipe” below

1 package soft tofu (MUST be soft)
2 tbsp maple syrup
100g dark chocolate (I find chocolate chips work best)

In a food processor, blend the tofu and maple syrup. Melt the chocolate in the microwave, and allow to cool slightly below pouring it into the food processor. Blend until fully combined. Eat right away as a pudding, or put in the fridge and have it as a mousse.

8. While the shift away from alcohol feels like an overwhelmingly positive cultural move, I’ve never been a big drinker to begin with, so I’ve never really felt the need to cut out the occasional glass I enjoy each month. If anything — and maybe this is slightly controversial — I’ve been really loving and looking forward to a well-timed drink lately. A single glass of white wine, a crisp beer, or a negroni at happy hour? I’m fucking down.

   I went to a little bistro in a charming neighbourhood with a couple friends from my book club earlier in the month, and loved the nibbles and libation so much I ended up taking a friend out for her birthday and ordering the exact same thing the very next weekend. Sitting outside on the patio and ordering a bunch of small plates and a large glass of wine makes me feel like the main character of my own movie.

   

9. I found my new favourite ceramic mug, one that resembles a vintage mug shape you’d find at your family cottage. Milk Ware ceramics is based out of Tofino, and seems to be operating on a drop by drop basis. I snagged a red 8 oz mug last time, and hope to get an 8 oz crayon mug in the next drop, early April. Mark your calendars!

   

10. My son is now front-facing in his carrier, and it’s made hiking with him so much more fun. I can watch his little head turn as he takes everything in: soft coos, wide eyes, quietly processing the world around him. At just over 17 lbs, carrying him is basically like hiking with a weighted vest for me. He usually falls asleep on the way down.

    

11. This ikea lounger was a recent Marketplace purchase that I’m really jazzed about. Earlier this year, we cut some of our unruly Leyland Cypress trees in half, as they were fully blocking precious sunlight from 2pm onwards. With them now the height of an actual hedge, the backyard gets consistent direct sunlight from about 10 am until sunset. I’ve been laying on the lounger and reading my book any chance mother nature gives me, and I plan to do that all spring and summer. These loungers give a bit of a 70s vibe, which I love, and are pretty inexpensive. I’m just missing a pool.

12. I switched my winter wardrobe out for my spring/summer one, and in doing so, I rediscovered these fun pants that were handed down from my SIL. She initially gave them to me for my bachelorette back in 2022. I consider this dopamine dressing at it’s finest.

    

13. Last month I spent next to nothing on clothing, so this month I felt like I had some wiggle room for a couple cheeky purchases. My friend owns a Mens Fine Clothing store in town, and they were having a big sale. I was originally on the hunt for something for my husband, but instead left with a couple fun faux snakeskin belts for myself. Classic. This month, I also bought the Levis jeans I mentioned above, a lululemon headband, and this chocolate brown t shirt during the Gap sale. Total spend on clothing in March was exactly $200.69. Not bad for five new items!

    

    

14. One of the best things I’ve done for my wellness recently is get a membership at the rec center near my house. Not only do we love to take our son to the pool in the middle of the workday, where we basically have the entire pool to ourselves, but I also love the option of being able to hit the sauna multiple times a week. The facility is less than a 5 minute drive from our house, so it’s super quick and convenient. I also like the fact that it’s highly unlikely that I am going to bump into anyone I know, so I can be totally incognito.

15. My mom came for a quick visit during Spring Break. She made dinners, played with my baby and helped with some much needed yard work. We also went to the pool, wandered around town, and hit up some happy hours. It was short but so very sweet. Next time we’ll see each other is at the end of May, and Wesley will be 6 months old already.

10 things on my wish list

Ok it’s 11 again…

1. These jelly shoes that are almost half off, just in time to air the feetsies out for spring.

2. I need new running shorts to get me excited about the 10k race I just signed up for next month.

3. I can’t quite explain to you why I neeeeed this necklace, but I just do.

4. Most precious matching embroidery PJ set. I have the shirt and would 100% wear it out.

5. I’m a frilly white blouse girlie, through and through.

6. Very Carolyn Bessette Kennedy shades. As seen on, and highly recommended by, Natazia zu Stolberg.

7. A runner friend recommended these budget friendly shoes — I just pulled the trigger and am so excited about it!

8. And these, non runners… which could very well be the shoe of the summer.

9. I’m a huge fan of anything Melanie Masarin does, and want to preorder her cookbook that comes out this next month.

10. A pair of chunky mini hoops I’d wear everyday. I also loooove these ones.

11. This one piece that I’ve had my eye on for months. I’m between this colour and the navy blue.

    ---

5 fun links

• If you read any of the links below, I urge you to take 15 minutes and read this one in it’s entirety

• Getting Sticky with Lake Bell and Getting Sticky with Jessica Lehrman. I love this series, and I love this platform dedicated to motherhood

• Allison Bornstein taking us through How To Approach a New Season like a Stylist

• One of my new favourite Substacks — Wealthkind, about personal finance — does these monthly edits, or monthly receipts as they call them, and I always find at least a few nuggets of wisdom

• Every way that Emma Chamberlain has changed her home since her last AD tour

I find the “1 item in, 1 item out” rule too simplistic, and not really how life works; sometimes it’s “5 items out, 1 item in”, other times it’s “0 items out, 3 items in”, and so on. I’m not a stickler about any specific numbers. I like to think that as long as I’m routinely going through my stuff and purging, in conjunction with shopping for new pieces, things will balance themselves out.

Routine purges are essential, because in order to feel good about your wardrobe, you need to actually know what you own. When your closet is bursting at the seams, it’s almost impossible to see everything clearly, which means pieces get forgotten or go unworn. I like to keep a very intentional, almost hyper-awareness of what’s in my closet at any given time. Honestly, I could probably list it all from memory.

Like most people, I tend to wear the same handful of pieces on repeat until I either tire of them or wear them out completely. I don’t necessarily think this is a bad thing. It allows me to evaluate the pieces that I am not reaching for and wearing. Am I ready to part with them? Usually the answer is yes, and I will sell/consign, then spend the $$ on a new piece that I will inevitably overdose on eventually too. That’s my cycle.

I really believe that the key to success when purging is to be as ruthless as possible. Let go of pieces that no longer feel like you. Unless it holds legitimate sentimental value (i.e. I’ll never get rid of vintage pieces my mom passed down to me), move on. Be free. Get something new, that you’ll enjoy more. There have been very few pieces that I’ve come across that I feel strongly enough about that I wouldn’t even consider letting go of. That said, mistakes do happen — so make sure you’re ready to part with something before you do.

At the end of the day, being a thoughtful consumer shows in both your wardrobe and your personal style. Below are some tips on how to edit your closet and shop smarter so that you can have a continuously revolving wardrobe that feels exciting and fresh.

1. On Purging: Pull out each article of clothing to evaluate it.

Don’t just swipe through your closet. Actually take the piece of clothing out and off the hanger, look at it, feel it, and even try it on. If it’s not an immediate “Yes”, put it to the side. Anything that doesn’t feel or fit right is a “No” for now.

I like to make 3 piles: consign, donate, and ‘sit on it’. Anything that you think someone might buy goes into the consign pile, anything that’s beyond selling is donated (or unfortunately thrown out), and anything you’re not yet sure of goes into the ‘sit on it’ pile.

Once you’ve gone through every item in your closet using this method, go through the clothes you put in the ‘sit on it’ pile one final time and either put the pieces back into your closet for close monitoring or into one of the other two piles.

2. On Purging: Identify your gaps.

Once you’ve properly combed through and edited your closet, you can start to clearly identify your wardrobe gaps. What are you actually missing? What do you have too much of? Take note of what you like on other people that you don’t currently own, and make an effort to look for these pieces the next time you’re shopping.

I’ve realized I own far too many oversized collared shirts (slash shirts like this), dressier blouses, and statement pieces — but not nearly enough casual, easy, everyday basics. Which is ironic, because that’s what I want to wear most days. Those pieces never feel exciting for me to buy though. Instead, I have to constantly talk myself out of buying some niche, expensive dress that I will realistically only wear once (I did recently cave and buy this in the hopes of reselling it after the wedding I plan to wear it to).

3. On Buying: Prioritize clothes that have good resell value.

This might be the most important tip of all: you have to spend money to make money, baby! If you’re buying cheap pieces that lose their shape and quality over time, you won’t have much luck reselling them. But when you invest in slow fashion and well-made items, people are far more willing to buy them secondhand.

Most shoppers aren’t looking for used fast-fashion pieces. These items often lose their shape after just a few washes—they simply aren’t made to last. High-quality pieces, made with natural materials from recognizable brands, on the other hand, hold their value, wear well over time, and are much easier to resell.

When I’m thrifting clothing, I look at two things: the brand name & the material content. If it’s a brand I recognize and respect, and the materials are natural, I am far more likely to pull the trigger and feel good about the purchase. I am also far more likely to be able to resell these pieces, keeping the sustainability cycle alive.

Some of my best consignment store finds:

• Jesse Kamm Sailor pant

• Beatrice Valenzuela sandals

• The perfect Calvin Klein 90s jean jacket

• Louis Vuitton thong sandals

• Babaa wool sweater

4. On Buying: Do your research.

I like to do my due diligence before buying anything at a higher price point. If I see a piece I like, I’ll research the hell out of it. I’ll read reviews, and even better, I’ll watch someone try on the exact item on Instagram or TikTok.

If I can’t quite stomach the full price, I’ll start hunting for it secondhand—usually on Facebook Marketplace, but sometimes on Poshmark or even eBay. And if I know the brand tends to run annual or semi-annual sales, I’ll wait it out and see if it eventually goes on discount.

If I’m in a rut and need to draw inspiration, I’ve been turning more and more to people’s ShopMy accounts. Whenever I come across someone whose style I admire—Melanie Masarin, Allison Bornstein, Olivia Muniak, Natazia Stolberg—I’ll scroll through their ShopMy to see what they’re linking. It’s such an easy way to get a sense of what they’re actually wearing and recommending in real life. I trust their style, and therefore trust what they are recommending. For anyone unfamiliar, ShopMy lets creators link pieces directly from their posts, so you can trace an outfit back to its source without any guesswork. I find myself gathering so many ideas this way, and honestly, Substack has become a similar source of inspiration too.

5. On Selling: Sell, then re-buy.

I’ve mentioned that I get bored of my clothes fairly quickly, and this is one of my favourite ways to refresh my wardrobe without buying something brand new. It lets me enjoy the novelty of something without technically spending any money (or buying something full price).

Again, this typically only works with something that has a high resell value. Let’s use Babaa wool sweaters as an example. I owned a No.19 that I bought secondhand and wore for a few years. I got great use out of it, but eventually I noticed I wasn’t reaching for it as often. When I saw a No.17 listed on Facebook Marketplace one day, I decided to sell my No.19 and upgrade.

It felt great to get something new without feeling like I just broke the bank. I’ve worn the new Babaa a lot, but I’m already feeling ready to do it again. I’ve had my eye on the No.15, No.23, or No. 29 so if either of those comes up secondhand, I’ll likely repeat the same process. This is exactly why tip #2 is so important.

I hope these tips helped or at least have struck some inspiration and motivation to clean out your closet! Happy spring, and happy shopping xx

This month was stacked with lots of TV and nonstop group chats. I understand that some people hate to be on their phones, and I wish I could say the same, but in all honesty, I live for texting my friends. A girls girl through and through, my phone is firing on all cylinders all day with friends sending podcast length voice notes, sharing hilarious Reels/memes and unpacking every thought that comes to their head. It’s work to keep up with it all, but I’m happy to put in the hours.

I have two separate Traitors chats going (ok, they’re both actually Rob Rausch fan chats), and each Thursday I’d get together with one of them to watch the treachery in the castle unfold. We started out with 4 girls and 1 baby, and by the season finale another baby had joined us *August has entered the chat*

As far as the weather goes, I hesitate to say too much as I know friends and family in Ontario and on the east coast have had a helluva winter. For that, I am sorry. I personally have felt like this winter has gone by in the blink of an eye. As it continues to get nicer (I’m currently sitting on a patio chair in my backyard writing this) I’m really looking forward to experiencing mat-leave in the summer. Beach days, lake trips, and patio hangs are all in the not so distance future.

Starting early next month, we have some weekend trips planned — to Squamish for Easter, a bachelorette weekend in Jordan River, a potential trip to Tofino, a couple weeks visiting my family in Ontario in May, and then a wedding on the Sunshine Coast later in June. I’ve never been before, and I’m so excited!

Lastly, the mat-leave budget is rough, so if you’re a paying subscriber to this newsletter, I genuinely can’t thank you enough. If you’ve ever used any of my affiliate codes, you’re the best. You help me feel less guilty about going for a coffee or getting a myself a little treat when I’m out and about. These posts take me days to pull together (I really try to stuff them full for you), often in pockets of nap time or late at night. I know inboxes are endlessly flooded with content, which makes it all the more meaningful that you choose to open, read, and spend your time here. Truly it does not go unnoticed :)

PS - In last months dispatch, I talked about Kits Eyewear, and forgot to link this helpful Reel that shows you some of their bestsellers.

1. READ —

I probably should have finished more than two books this month — they were both quick reads — but nothing at the library was really grabbing me. I’d rate both books similarly, somewhere around a 3.5 out of 5 stars.

My sister-in-law sent me a voice note the other day describing her literary turnoff: when a chapter ends with a single, overly polished line that tries to neatly summarize some grand epiphany. That kind of sweeping, cliché platitude gives her the ick, because people don’t actually think or speak in that kind of simplistic way. We don’t always have words to neatly describe what we’re feeling, or even know what we are feeling in the first place. I felt Heart the Lover leaned into this a bit too often, which is why I docked it a point, even though, overall, I did enjoy it.

Best Offer Wins, on the other hand, takes itself far less seriously. I appreciated it for exactly what it was: a fast paced, dark comedy thriller, entertaining from beginning to end. Margo and her husband are looking for the perfect house to settle down and start their family. After losing out on 11 offers, Margo finally finds the one, and will stop at nothing to make it hers (“If we can’t have this house, I will literally lie on the floor and fucking die. - Margo”).

Darkly humorous, absurd, and yet still relatable if you’ve ever tried buying a house in the cut throat post-COVID era, I think this book is hard not to enjoy.

2. WATCH —

Between Traitors S4 finale, the Survivor S50 premiere, The Pitt, and even Canada Shore (guys… it’s genuinely hilarious. Where do they find these people??) a truly impressive amount of television was consumed this month. None of it particularly highbrow, but all of it perfect for an indulgent little couch-rot. Our Commiserating King, Rob Rausch, had the performance of a lifetime on Traitors, has been doing a lot of press around it (I am ~livin~ for it all I’ve linked my favourite articles in the last section of this newsletter.)

I also saw Wuthering Heights in theatres with my girlfriends for Galentine’s. As expected, it didn’t quite live up to the hype (an almost impossible task), but I did love the cinematography, the costumes, and Jacob Elordi reminding us how tall he is. Next on my watchlist: Love Story.

3. WEAR —

Because I’m addicted to purging my closet, I noticed that I’m now lacking in knitwear. I also realized there was no red in my wardrobe, and if you haven’t noticed, red is so hot right now. After heavily debating between the Emile and the Bastille cardigan from Sézane, I decided on the Emile (the higher neckline won me over), and I have to say… it’s better than I expected! The fit is spot on: slightly boxy and oversized, and the colour is absolutely gorgeous. There’s a reason it’s a bestseller.

4. LISTEN —

I subbed a couple strength classes this month and this was my favourite playlist I put together. Try it for your next gym session, or run. Also if you haven’t seen this viral video yet of Ian Hotko dancing to Feisty in Vancouver, you HAVE TO WATCH IT.

5. EAT —

I love following Dr Natazia Stolberg on IG for TCM and general wellness advice and I got this idea from her. Since we almost always have cooked rice in our fridge, I’ve been frying it up with 2 eggs, then grating in some cheddar cheese in for a perfectly balanced macro breakfast. It’s really good, quick and easy — what I’m all about these days!

6. I went over to my friend’s house on her due date and we made the simplest little Valentine’s craft to distract her from the impending, forever life-changing event that could happen at any moment. We cut strips of pink and red construction paper, stapled them into heart shapes, and linked them together into a long chain. It was the kind of craft you’d make in elementary school, but that was part of the charm. I draped it across the fireplace mantle when I got home, and it instantly brought a smile on my face. I actually left it hanging all month for this reason. The following day, a lady stopped me on my walk with Wes and asked if I celebrated Valentines day. When I nodded, she reached into her bag and handed me a small crocheted piece that simply says “Love.” So sweet. It felt like the universe was really leaning into the theme.

   

7. When I logged onto FBMP I wasn’t planning on buying four new wishbone chairs from Rove Concepts, but it just happened. My dining room chair situation is one that I’ve wanted to change for a while but wasn’t in any immediate rush. I had two vintage Cesca chairs that I loved but didn’t like the mismatch situation with the other 4 chairs around the table. I knew that eventually I needed to sell everything and get a new set. The chairs were in Duncan, which was fine by me, as I’m always looking for an excuse to hit up Promise Valley Farm and get some fresh A2 milk. I’m really impressed with the quality of the chairs!

8. I have been rotating between a handful of outfits lately and this is one of them. The butter yellow jacket is thrifted from my friends at The Found Studio, who I love dearly and who always have the coolest things in town. A couple of my fav available things right now are: this vintage textured glass vase, this swedish orb pendant, and these leather woven wedges.

   

9. Last month I borrowed a friend’s film camera to snap a few photos of Wesley as a newborn. I’ve gone through three film cameras in the past few years (they keep breaking on me) and there is truly nothing more devastating than getting a roll developed only to find out it didn’t work. So at the moment I’m without a reliable one and keeping my eyes peeled on FBMP. Film photos are so special, I really treasure the soft, imperfect and unpredictable nature of them. I’d like to get in the habit of just always having a roll on the go.

   

10. One of my favourite ways to spend a day is hunting for cool consignment store pieces. I would do this professionally if I could… I find it genuinely relaxing. The other week, I popped into a consignment store I don’t frequent often and found 3 very good things: a white Emile cardigan (see #3) from Sézane, a pair of sea-foam green Sambas, and an oversized striped Babaton half-zip. I’m trying to be more strategic with my spending, so I passed on all three (a small personal victory), but I shared them on IG and a friend swooped in and snagged them. New side hustle unlocked?

    

11. We had a stretch of rainy days and I needed activities that would get me and baby out of the house, so we went to the Photographer of the Year Exhibit at the museum. I strapped Wesley into the carrier, and the gentle rhythm of walking from photograph to photograph lulled him into a deep sleep. One of my best friends who also just had a baby and suggested we get an annual pass to Butchart Gardens, which I thought was an incredible idea. Anytime we’re itching to get out of the house, we can stroll the gardens with our babies.

    

12. I did my first cold dip of the year on the last day of February (ok I went in halfway) and I felt so good afterwards. I haven’t been able to do any sauna or cold dipping for almost all of 2025 due to being pregnant, and then newly postpartum, so I’m really looking forward to exploring those wellness activities again. I recently got a membership to my neighbourhood rec center (I’m a big rec center girl), and I’m planning on frequenting often.

    

13. The Mr Larkin’s Online Stock Sale is still going strong for a couple more days. I’ve been on the hunt for a Lola at the right price point for years now, and sadly the quest continues, but my SIL lucked out and snagged this lovely polka dot dress thats perfect for any spring/summer event or wedding. I do really love this dress but it’s too fancy for the weddings I’m attending this year, and this one is a little too casual, but also caught my eye.

14. I’m really craving some new jewellery. It’s been so long since I bought a new piece, I don’t even know what I’m into anymore. Is silver still in? What about mixed metals? Lately I’ve been noticing chunky beads and pops of colour everywhere. I’m having some trust issues with a longtime brand that I’ve loved but who’s pieces are not holding up as well as they used to. Do you have any recommendations? I’m specifically on the hunt for either a monogram necklace for Wesley. My girlfriends and I recently went in on a ‘J’ from Lizzie Fortunato for a friend who had a daughter named Josephine, and now I’m tempted to get the “W” for Wes.

15. Ending on a sappy note, but I just want to say that the mom community goes hard. My sons wardrobe has been almost entirely donated by my sister in law, and a couple friends. I am blown away at everyone’s generosity and willingness to share and pass down. Last week, I met up with a friend at a coffee shop and she handed me an entire bag full of her sons hand me downs. There were some real treasures in there, like these camo sweatpants.

10 Things On My Wish List

Or rather 11, cus a couple of these are now out of stock, plus… I can do this all day.

1. This incredible beaded bag for beach days that still feel chic.

2. This cat eye » Or this $20 pair from Amazon.

3. I think I’m finally ready to lean into the low rise trend, and this inexpensive pair seems like a safe place to start (Edit: link has been removed from Zara!? I will be checking back regularly because they look GOOD.)

4. The most perfect spring jacket ever!!!

5. Known for their frilly white blouses, this one is soooo darling.

6. Speaking of chunky and colourful beads, this necklace is perfect.

7. I can see myself wearing this simple halter a lot this summer.

8. Harry Styles made me want these loud runners, cus remember, I’m getting into running again?

9. Dream wedding guest dress. Currently out of stock, but I set an alert.

10. The prettiest To Do List. Luna Collective in Victoria carries them if you want to avoid shipping costs!

11. The comfiest 90’s half zip for gym days and beyond.

5 fun links

• 139 thoughts we all had while watching Wuthering Heights

  

• This link has the paywall removed for The Cut’s article on RR called, “Don’t Hate the Player”

• GQ also did an article, ‘A Day on The Farm with Rob Rausch’

• Might as well add this one too — Rob Rasuch on Interview Magazine

• Recreate Carolyn Bessete-Kennedy’s Wardrobe

I loved reading Rileys answers. They are genuine and sweet, and didn’t feel overly edited. I get the sense that she values ritual and craft, and that she prioritizes things that age well over anything loud, spectacle-driven, or trend-based. The entire interview carries a sense of calm, and it almost makes me want to pack up and move to small town Ontario.

If you’re a slow-morning, bread-and-butter-on-the-counter, heavy-knit-sweaters and sturdy-boots-by-the-door kind of person, you’re going to love this one. Enjoy.

PS — this interview is likely too long for your inbox, so be sure to read it in it’s entirety on the Substack platform!

39 (mostly) rapid-fire questions with Riley Smith

About Routine

1. What time do you wake up? Is it different on the weekends?
   My body clock is around 7:30 these days, but if I have the option to stay cozy in bed for an extra half hour, I will!

2. Describe the first 30 minutes of your day.
   I’m a straight-to-my-morning-coffee type of person! I like to wake up quite a bit before starting work so that I can have a relaxing, slow morning. I love waking up to my cozy kitchen and putting the kettle on for my pour-over coffee. I’ve never been great at journaling but I try to do around 20 minutes of a mindful activity like knitting (or lately a bit of Sudoku) while I sip my coffee, before getting dressed for the day. I have a dog, so I also take him for a walk up my (very long) driveway while soaking up the first of the morning sun!

3. What’s something you’re currently trying to improve about your routine?
   Drinking a big glass of warm water! I’ll admit, I have terrible hydrating habits and tend to just keep refilling my coffee mug. I’m trying to be more conscious about having a warm glass of water and a nourishing breakfast, even when I’m not hungry right away. Having access to organic farm fresh eggs and the best breakfast sausages at the farm store I was working at, really helped with this!

4. What are your holy grail wellness products and practices that you use/do routinely?
   I keep it simple! I don’t have an extensive beauty routine by any means. I wash my face with warm water and hydrate with my favourite tallow cream made by my friends at Kinfolk Cabin. Winter in Ontario is hard, so I’m currently taking a vitamin-D supplement, getting out for daily walks and sunshine, as well as sprinkling mineral salt in anything I can. I really only wear make-up for special occasions and just do the basics.

5. How do you change your day around if you’re not feeling like your best self?
   Getting out in nature and moving my body is super helpful for me! A long walk with my dog, or solo, always gets me out of my head and grounds me. Paying a visit to my horse always shifts my mood too. I like to keep moving and inspired so making sure I get out of the house to grab a coffee at a cute cafe or cooking a new fun meal, give me a little boost of creative energy and feeling more like my self.

About Home

6. What is the story behind your home and how long have you lived there?
   I luckily landed renting my house about 2 years ago now, through a friends’ connection. It’s a little white farm house on a hill, on the most wonderful property. I love anything with character and charm and used to drive past this house and say “one day I want to live there,” and as luck would have it, here I am! Some days I still pinch myself that I get to sit out on the front porch looking out at the ponds or go on walks through the trails in the back woods.

7. What are a few favourite things that you cherish in your home and why?
   My kitchen hutch is probably my favourite piece. I found it on market place, and I love playing around and styling it with thrift finds and my favourite cookbooks. I also love the black and white checkered floors and my wood-burning stove with my little yellow kettle sitting on it!

   

8. What’s been your most impressive secondhand find?
   Might not be my most “impressive,” but it’s my most cherished…I call it my “Louie Table.” It’s a little harvest table that someone carved writing into. After I got my dog and named him Louie, I realized that that’s what the carvings read! I can’t even remember where I got it from, I’ve had it for about 9 years now. I have carted it with me to every pop-up and market stall I’ve done. It also sat in the little corner nook when I had my cafe, for customers to sit around. It’s now in the landing area upstairs in my house to use as my little home desk.

9. What’s the next thing you’re planning on updating / upgrading in your home?
   I hate to say it, but I’m dying to paint my upstairs hard wood floors! I love them, but there are huge black spots from years ago, that are either from water damage or oil stains and floor rugs just don’t do the trick in covering them up. I would also love to take down my upper kitchen cabinets! They definitely match the bones of the house, but I personally love a mix of new with the old, and more clean lines - They’re just a bit too detailed for me.

10. Do you have a favourite spot to sit in your home?
    Definitely my living room. I love the way the light floods in and casts shadows and I have a wonderful view of cedar trees out the windows, as well as into my little kitchen. I’m lucky to have a big enough couch to fit my cats and dog too!

About Food

11. 3 things that are always in your fridge and 3 things that are always in your pantry.
    - Fridge: Cream for my coffee, jam for on toast and farm fresh eggs
    - Pantry: Fresh sourdough, dates and almond butter

12. 3 things that you wish were always in your fridge and 3 things that you wish were always in your pantry?
    - Fridge: Good cheese, crisp watermelon and freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
    - Pantry: Ms. Vicky’s S+V chips, Canyon Coffee and my aunt and uncle’s home-made tomato sauce

13. Favourite kitchen utensil / gadget?
    My Kinto goose-neck kettle and pour over coffee maker are my most used, as well as a wooden spatula that was hand-made by a friend!

14. Favourite meal growing up?
    I think everyone in our family will answer the same - my mums lemon pasta. It was a summer staple at our cottage growing up. She tops it with roasted cherry tomatoes, grilled asparagus, heaps of fresh parm and pine nuts. Also my papa’s homemade pop-corn!

15. A meal on heavy rotation these days?
    I’m heavily inspired by ancestral eating right now after working at my friends’ grass-fed Beef + pasture-raised Pork farm. I was vegetarian for over 15 years, but more recently have started eating red meat. I’ve been playing around with cooking steaks and integrating more ground beef into my meals. I’m also always sourcing vegetables that are local and in season. I’m lucky to have so many wonderful farms in my area!

16. And a quick, healthy snack you always have on hand?
    Medjool dates with almond butter and flaky salt! I’m big on snack plates and usually do a combination of those, cheese, seed crackers, and sliced fresh fruit (currently pear or apples).

17. How do you stay hydrated throughout the day?
    Like I said, this is a tough one for me! I recently was gifted a water bottle with a handled lid and have been carrying that around, which has helped. I always try to add my favourite mineral salt to it and a splash of fresh juice or lemon to make it more enjoyable to drink.

About Style

18. How often do you purge your wardrobe? Any advice on that?
    I’m absolutely terrible at this! I am incredibly sentimental and have a hard time parting with things, even when I don’t wear or use them anymore. Eventually I crack and do a big purge every couple years.

    

19. What’s one item in your wardrobe you’ll likely never get rid of?
    My Rudy Jude Utility jeans! I love the quality and durability of them. They are perfect for farm work and gardening and paired with a t-shirt or chunky knit sweater, they are a staple in my closet.

    

20. Who’s your style muse?
    Sofie Zilstorff - for adding pattern and colour, Rudy Jude - for utility and classics and absolutely anything Studio Ren - London!!

21. 3 words to describe your style, go…
    Comfort, classic, practical (some might also say, “grandma”? Ha!)

& Everything else…

22. What’s one trend you’re currently loving and hoping to stay for the long haul?
    Ballet flats, the Sophie Scarf, Instagram Carousels - instead of Reels.

23. You decide to treat yourself. How do you indulge?
    Dinner at Hearts Tavern with a Paper-Plane and their sticky toffee pudding for dessert!

24. How do you typically spend a day off?
    I’ll enjoy a slow morning at home with coffee and an indulgent breakfast - maybe hosting a friend! Then I take my dog for a big hike, followed by a visit over to the barn to visit my horse. I also like to spend time in the kitchen cooking a big nourishing meal that will set me up for the week. Then I usually wind down with some sort of crafty-project or a sauna!

25. What’s the last hobby you picked up just for fun?
    I’ve always loved trail running, but this past fall a friend started a running challenge and my main intention for the month was to enjoy the activity just for fun and to not be so serious about it! I love being outside and moving my body and trying out new trails in the area. I bought a horse last year, so anything to do with bonding with him and being around the barn, as well as an on-going Monopoly Deal tournament!

26. What’s a smell that takes you back to your childhood?
    My cousin has been rocking my Papa’s old, classic leather jacket, and it still smells like him! (Pop-corn and Campfires?)

27. When’s the last time a stranger made you smile?
    Today - when a farmer around the corner from my house was driving by on his tractor and noticed I was stuck in my (very long) driveway. He helped tow me out of the snow!

28. What’s something you still find magical, no matter how old you get?
    Oh gosh, a million things…Sunsets, picking flowers off the side of the road, snow sparkling on a crisp sunny morning - to name a few.

29. One place in the world you’re dying to visit?
    Copenhagen!! Or anywhere in Denmark really. I love their fashion style, architecture and cafe culture! I’m dying to visit a few cafes & restaurants I follow, that were huge inspirations to me when I had my own shop. I need to see Atelier Septembers’ whipped butter irl!!

30. What’s a movie you’ve seen recently that left a big impact on you?
    I’m really terrible with movies and shows! I rarely watch t.v and when I do, it’s probably a movie I’ve seen a million times. My latest was Sweet Home Alabama. I was laughing because I recently bought a vintage truck and realized that it looks exactly like the one she drives around in. Maybe it sub-consciously left an impression on me, as did her wardrobe and hound-dog!

    

31. Guilty pleasure?
    Thrifting, vintage frilly white dresses and coffee.. And buying mini bags of sour candy from the old general store when I go to buy my milk…oops!

32. What’s the last thing you bought that you’re really excited about?
    A mini tri-pod! I’m looking forward to practicing making cooking videos and playing around with filming more content.

33. What do you miss?
    I’m a terribly sentimental person so I miss a million and one things at all times … our family cottage, my grandparents, my old dog Millie. Going to concerts all the time. Living in Australia with my best friend, and having the most fun in our early 20’s. Living in the A-frame cottage in the Valley where I was walking distance to my favourite river swimming hole.

34. What no longer impresses you?
    Skater boys.

35. Song currently on repeat?
    Anything Sam Fender!

36. Favourite form of movement / exercise?
    Trail running! I also recently got a personal trainer to help me with weight training, and have been having a lot of fun exploring that and joining their group classes for a faster pace and socializing!

37. If you could rename yourself, what name would you choose?
    I don’t necessarily suit it, but I’ve always loved the name Molly.

38. How do you handle stress on busy days?
    Getting outside for a long walk always helps me clear my mind and time around my horse really regulates my nervous system. When in doubt, call my best friend or go on a drive and blast some tunes!

39. Tell me a bit about what you do for work.
    A bit of a loaded question right now, as this past year I’ve changed jobs about 4 times. After owning a coffee + retail store for 5 years, I was working teaching students 1:1 at a small school. Then I moved on to help a new farm market store open. And most recently, I was working at a friends’ Organic farm store, selling their grass-fed meats and produce. All have been great learning experiences but I’m currently working on more creative pursuits again - trying to hone-in on my own services, involving catering, interior styling, content creation and event planning! Anything in this realm is when I feel most in my element!

    

    
    
    
    

One month into 2026 and I already want time to slow down. This is my mat-leave year with my son. He’s two and a half months old, and I can’t quite keep a lid on how obsessed I am with him.

I have so many favourite parts of being a mother. Taking him out of his sleep swaddle every morning, and greeting a slowly waking, smiling baby is at the top of the list. They are the most delicious and adorable at this time of day.

At the same time each morning, I’m faced with watching development happen right before my eyes. He’s heavier, fuller, chunkier than the morning previous.

I like watching these developments unfold, but they are truly bewildering at the same time. From the simplest things, like smiling and laughing, reacting to loud noises, to slowing losing their newborn startle reflexes… watching a human develop in real time feels incredibly special. It’s emotional. It’s an honour. There’s really nothing that compares to it.

Having a baby and a mortgage to pay can feel really scary. This year will have to be a balance of being financially responsible and getting creative with how to stretch a dollar (slash make some extra dough), while still being able to say “yes” to fun opportunities that present themselves. It’s also quite an anxious and vulnerable time for women in regards to their careers in general, and I’m no exception. I wonder and worry what will happen when I return to the workforce. Will I advance? Will I be as ambitious as before? Will I even get my child into daycare?

All these questions and more have circled my mind in those hours I’m up in the middle of the night with him. They are especially cruel when they don’t allow me to just fall right back asleep, as soon as my son does.

“A lot of the time men are just donkeys who imagine themselves as horses” — this line made me chuckle a lot when I came across it in my book the other night. I had to text it to a friend, who responded so perfectly. Women are such forces of nature.

I hope you’ve all had a great start to your year. Here’s what I’ve been up to this past month.

15 things about January

1. READ —

Last year I set a goal of reading 24 books, which I did not achieve. Clearly, I have not learned from my mistakes, because I’m setting the exact same goal again this year. Two books a month feels very doable, especially now that I’ve learned the art of reading one physical book while listening to an audiobook at the same time. That’s exactly how I got through Julia Fox’s memoir Down the Drain alongside the philosophical I Who Have Never Known Men.

Here’s are my thoughts on the 3 (starting off strong!) books I finished this month.

📚 Hotline, Dimitri Narsrallah

I really adored this book. It’s about a single mother immigrant who arrives to Montreal with her son after fleeing the civil war in Lebanon. She hopes to find work as a French teacher, but faces systemic barriers that prevent her from using her training. With few options, she takes a job as a hotline operator at a weight-loss centre, where she spends her days listening to strangers share their personal struggles. This book had a lot of emotional depth and I don’t remember the last time I was rooting for a character so much.

📚 Down the Drain, Julia Fox

When this was initially recommended to me by a friend, I was not very interested. The only things I knew of Julia Fox was that she was in Uncut Gems and briefly dated Kanye West. I even mistakenly thought she was the chick that showed up nearly naked to the Grammy’s with Ye — she was not. That was Bianca Censori. Anyways, this book completely blew me away. I was engrossed in Fox’s harrowing stories and tales of growing up in New York City and going down a “bad path” starting at a very early age. This book had me on the edge of my seat the entire read. Hot Tip: it’s free to listen to if you have Spotify Premium.

📚 I Who Have Never Known Men, Jaqueline Harpman

I feel like I know exactly what kind of person will love this book, and what kind of person will not. If you are into stream of consciousness reading and can get lost in a book that doesn’t have a strong plot but does have a strong philosophical elements, you will love this. If you need something zippier to hold your attention, maybe this is not for you. I personally really enjoyed this read, but will say that it was quite repetitive and ultimately unsatisfying at the end.

2. WATCH —

With the Oscars coming up, I’m on a mission to watch as many nominated Best Picture movies as possible. So far I’ve seen 6/10: Sinners, Marty Supreme, Hamnet, Bugonia, and most recently One Battle After Another & Sentimental Value. I thought One Battle was delightfully hilarious and seriously cool. Like, the movie had swagger. Paul Thomas Anderson is just so good at what he does. I liked Sentimental Value, but I wasn’t fully invested. If you have yet to see Worst Person in the World (same director), I promise you it’s way better. Still on my watch list: Train Dreams, The Secret Agent, and Frankenstien (I’m skipping F1, it looks boring, sorry Brad!!!).

3. WEAR —

I’m still thrilled with my very affordable and very comfy pants from Uniqlo. The barrel shape gives them a relaxed but stylish look. Even though they are baggy, I still feel put together and chic when I wear them. I got them in dark brown, and would definitely get a second pair in white for the upcoming warmer months ahead. They’re just a great, easy pair of pants to have in my repertoire.

4. EAT —

One of my “New Year’s resolutions” is to give more time and honestly, more heart, back to cooking. I’m not quite where I want to be yet in terms of effort or ambition, but I’ve shifted my focus to meals that are simple and realistic to make with a baby on my hip. Lately, I’ve been obsessed with super buttery scrambled eggs, piled onto a baguette with more unapologetic amounts of salted butter and a sharply aged cheddar. It instantly takes me back to the morning I landed in Paris years ago, when my brother made this exact breakfast for me while he was living there. The baguette came straight from a boulangerie and the grocery store cheese outshone anything we have in our grocery stores, but it’s easy enough to recreate on any given morning and it’s deeply satisfying.

5. LISTEN —

I’m into the new Harry Styles song, Aperature. It feels a lot more experimental than his previous pop-forward music. I’m seeing it described as “lightly psychedelic” and I think that’s spot on. I like it a lot. The music video is also delightfully odd and feels like a The Matrix x Dirty Dancing mash up.

6. One day, I finally had enough and the urge to purge every old, hard and occasionally questionable-smelling towel in my house completely took over. After going down a deep towel-brand rabbit hole, I mostly learned one thing: good towels are really fkn expensive. Brooklinen ended up being the most “affordable” option among the luxury brands I looked at (Tekla, Baine, Parachute, etc.). They were having a sale on their towel bundles, so I pulled the trigger and I’m very glad I did. They’re extremely plush and fluffy, which is a bit of an adjustment, as per Robby Hoffman’s standup bit!

I also upgraded my shower curtain to one that has way more charm, and I really think it makes a big difference in my ensuite.

7. After a record-breaking amount of rainfall in December, January surprised us with a stretch of crisp, clear, sunny days… the kind that produce the most lovely sunsets. We took full advantage, heading to the beach each evening we were gifted that weather. We’d bring the propane fire, grill hot dogs, and watch the January sun sink into the horizon around 4:45 pm, bundled up, grateful to live where we do, and completely content.

8. I saw the sweetest baby craft idea on Instagram and decided to try recreating it. I lucked out and found the exact linen paper at a little art shop downtown. They didn’t have any for sale, but the man working there cut me a piece from a frame backing they had. I had high hopes that my “art piece” would turn out just like the inspo… which was naïve of me, because it turns out getting a two-month-old to keep their feet still is actually really hard. Wes’ foot slid around a bit as we made a pitiful attempt at getting his footprint on the paper. That said, I still absolutely love the idea and plan to try again. If anyone has tips for how to do this more successfully, please share 🙃

9. This is my first month back to working out since giving birth. Seeing my body change throughout my pregnancy and now in my postpartum has been really profound to me. I am in awe of how much it can stretch and grow and then slowly find its way back. Since giving birth, I’ve become more curious about the true potential of my physical self, and I want to explore that more this year.

So far, strength training has felt the best for me, while cardio has taken the biggest hit. I mentioned this in last months dispatch but I plan on getting back into running this year. I’m starting very slowly — run/walking for 30 minutes total — and once I can comfortably hold a ~5:45 min/km pace for at least 30 minutes, I’ll build from there, or enlist ChatGPT to build out a program for me. I’m aiming to sign up for the Royal Victoria Marathon in October, which gives me plenty of time to prepare.

I’m also on the hunt for a new running shoe, so if you have strong opinions, I’d love to hear them in the comments.

10. Poppy Barley has been a longtime brand partner that I’ve loved working with. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to try many of their shoe styles. Not everything they make is totally my style, but the ones that are absolutely hit, and I REALLY like them. Here are my top 3 picks of all time:

• Laid Back Loafers: the newest pair I’ve added to my collection. Extremely comfortable.

• BLVD Mary Jane: so easy to wear with just about any outfit.

• Toujours Boot: I love them in the black and the snake print. They look best with a wide leg pant, or long ankle length skirt.

11. I’ve been getting out of the house for long stretches most days, mostly because I genuinely find it easier than staying in. My son loves his car seat and seems to magically fall asleep the moment he’s strapped in. When he’s napping, everything feels more manageable, and I happily take advantage of that quiet window by heading to a coffee shop with my book. One afternoon I lucked out with a window seat at Tourist Café (right next door to the restaurant) and had the most peaceful time, matcha in hand, flying through a few chapters. I’m fully leaning into this phase while it lasts.

    

12. One of my favourite weekend activities is to drive up island, getting some farm fresh milk from Promise Valley and hitting up the Thrift stores up island. There is one shop in Duncan that is particularly good. I’m talking $1-$10 a pop good. This time around, I scored a royal blue windbreaker for one dollar that looks super similar to a K-Way jacket. My friend walked away with a basically brand-new jean jacket, complete with a cool Hard Rock Café Kona, Hawaii logo on the back, for four dollars. For context, we popped into another store on the same street right after where denim jackets were priced at $140. The contrast was… hilarious.

    

13. Ok I’m here to tell you that the viral yogurt and biscoff trend is so good. It’s not exactly cheese cake, but a great high protein treat that’s extremely simple. I also tried the tiramisu spin on it and it was EVEN BETTER.

14. Since I’m spending so much time in my bedroom these days, I’ve been feeling a strong urge to upgrade it and make it feel more considered. I had an Article Tessu bedframe from a few years ago that my cats absolutely destroyed. As much as I love the look of a fabric bed frame and think it makes a room feel cozier, I’ve accepted that it’s just not realistic for me while I have cats. The fabric gets dirty quickly, shows wear, and starts looking tired fast.

    I ended up finding this exact bed frame on Facebook Marketplace for $400 and snagged it immediately. Now I need a great 8×10 rug to anchor the bed. This rug is my gold-standard designer inspo, and this one is a really solid, more affordable alternative.

    

15. Public Service Announcement - LMNT electrolytes are now at Costco. And apparently so is Maserati, lol.

10 things on my wish list:

1. As seen on Brianna ChickenFry AND Kirsty Godso aka I NEED IT.

2. I’m really into camo right now.

3. I think I’m the last person on the internet to hear about this trendy eyewear brand and I can’t decided which frame I like best for a blue light blocking pair — this IG Reel is helpful!

4. 2026: the year I start wearing a belt.

5. I just threw my old one out because the paint was chipping off, and like the look of this sleek stainless steel one.

6. Essential piece for the capsule wardrobe, imo.

7. The skirt of my absolute dreams.

8. Best deodorant I’ve tried, trust me. I’m on my third order.

9. Down for anything with an exaggerated turlteneck these days.

10. I love the defined square neckline and gorgeous halter straps on this sports bra.

5 Grab Links

Don’t dress up to go for a run; an arguments for wearing old and weird workout gear to train.

Tips to help delete digital and mental clutter.

Celebrity stylist Allison Bornstein takes us through how pregnancy and postpartum reshaped more than her body.

50 great pieces of advice.

I’m a sucker for these silly but charming little quizzes.

The All Eyes On series is back and here to stay (consistently). Each month, I’ll be spotlighting someone who embodies that elusive je ne sais quoi quality, the kind of presence that makes people instantly intriguing and impossible to ignore.

This month, I’m showing off our local bombshell, Giulianna (or Gia). I’ve followed Gia on social media for a while and think she has incredible style and impeccable taste. I’ve seen snippets of her well designed home, that have left me curious and interested in seeing more. She’s clearly a multifaceted creative at heart, and has a knack for making life look beautiful. I’m so excited to see what she does for her upcoming wedding, and to watch her floral business blossom.

Follow along on her IG, as she continues to inspire beauty everywhere she goes ✨

39 (mostly) rapid-fire questions with Guiliana

About Routine

1. What time do you wake up? Is it different on the weekends?

My internal clock wakes me up at 7 am on the dot every day… I have never been able to sleep past 8 or 9, even if I stay up past my very sacred “bedtime”.

2. Describe the first 30 minutes of your day.

I always wake up and cuddle my dog (he is very needy & adorable first thing in the morning), then I get up and make a coffee. I usually check my phone (I know, bad habit), so I am trying to pick up my book first thing instead!

3. What’s something you’re currently trying to improve about your routine?

Definitely not being on my phone. I always check my emails & end up scrolling on Pinterest (especially with wedding planning on my mind), but it can wait until later and be limited either way.

4. What are your holy grail wellness products and practices that you use/do routinely?

My holy grail wellness products would be my Owala reusable waterbottle; it literally comes everywhere with me. Incense, my friends and family know, if I am home for longer than 5 minutes, I will ALWAYS have incense burning. Magnesium… if you haven’t tried it will change your life. I love the Moon Juice Magnesi-om if I am drinking it, but I also love a magnesium spray on my feet before bed. Just trust me…

5. How do you change your day around if you’re not feeling like your best self?

This is a great question. As someone who has struggled a lot with anxiety, I always recommend getting yourself up, doing an “everything shower,” and getting yourself out of the house. Go to your favourite coffee shop, head to your favourite antique shop, or to a workout class, literally anything to get your mind off things. Some days it can be so hard to get out of your own head, but I swear it makes a world of difference.

About Home

6. What is the story behind your home, and how long have you lived there?

Well, I really lucked out and can definitely say I have the best landlords ever! A few years back, my mom decided she wanted to start a cut flower farm, so she looked into a few properties that had a little bit of acreage, and she eventually found one! There was a small old house on the property that had been built in the 60’s and my dad, partner and I decided we were going to do a reno! I actually ended up designing the whole house myself, with help when needed, and my now fiancée and I rent it from my parents! I seriously feel like the luckiest girl in the world to wake up here every day, and maybe one day we will buy it from them!

7. What are a few favourite things that you cherish in your home, and why?

As a whole, I cherish the character the home has. There is something about an older house that holds so many memories. I often think about the family that was here before us, and love that we are continuing to create our own memories here. My kitchen as I love to cook, and we spend the majority of our time in there. As well as our yard, there is not a day that goes by that I take for granted the fact that our dog can run free outside; it is such a blessing.

8. What’s been your most impressive secondhand find?

This is a hard one! I have so many vintage and well-loved pieces in my home, but as a mid-century modern lover, the flag-halyard chair I got secondhand on Facebook Marketplace! Or the vanity in our guest bathroom, which was a vintage console we converted into a vanity.

9. What’s the next thing you’re planning on updating/upgrading in your home?

We are currently starting a little reno on one of the shops outside and are turning it into a gym! We can’t wait to have a designated spot for our workout space.

10. Do you have a favourite spot to sit in your home?

100% our living room. It was so cold & stark when we bought the house, and we turned it into the cozy, cabin-esque nest of our dreams. We are so lucky to have a real wood-burning fireplace, and there is truly nothing like sitting in front of the fire with a good book.

About Food

11. 3 things that are always in your fridge and 3 things that are always in your pantry.

I am fortunate to live in a town with numerous amazing local businesses in the food industry. One being a farm called Promise Valley, where they actually have a milk vending machine (yes… real milk), so I have made it a habit to always go there with my refillable jar and get my farm-fresh milk! In addition to milk, I always have something pickled, hot sauce, and a fun, alcohol-free beverage in my fridge! In my pantry, I always have a salty treat, fresh local bread, and sweet potatoes (I could eat them for every meal).

12. 3 things that you wish were always in your fridge and 3 things that you wish were always in your pantry?

Three things I wish I always had in the fridge: Prosciutto, buratta cheese, and Diet Coke (I know, it’s a cheeky treat).

Three things I wish I always had in the pantry: Swedish Candy, homemade chocolate chip cookies, and salted pita chips.

13. Favourite kitchen utensil/gadget?

My immersion blender! I use it for everything. Or my espresso machine, if that counts as a gadget…

14. Favourite meal growing up?

My mom is such an amazing cook, so this is a very hard question… I would say homemade pasta!

15. A meal on heavy rotation these days?

We have some sort of rice bowl every weeknight! Sometimes we swap out rice for quinoa, and try to switch up the protein, but always pair it with a vegetable and a homemade dressing!

16. And a quick, healthy snack you always have on hand?

Hummus and either crackers or veggies!

17. How do you stay hydrated throughout the day?

This has always been hard for me. I have ADHD, so remembering to hydrate is usually the last thing I think about. Recently, I have been a lot better! Finding a water bottle you really vibe with is a big help, and I will reward myself with electrolytes or a probiotic soda at dinner if I hit my water goal!

About Style

18. How often do you purge your wardrobe? Any advice on that?

I am such a big fan of the wardrobe purge! My rule is usually one thing in, one thing out but there are obviously staple pieces that aren’t included that. I like to be able to see all of my clothes or I know I won’t get enough wear out of them.I also love donating any clothes I don’t want to womens shelters or local thrift shops so they can live a second life!

19. What’s one item in your wardrobe you’ll likely never get rid of?

I have this 100% wool, knit sweater. It is so worn and loved and even though it might not look fancy anymore, it will forever be my coziest sweater. It will always be good enough for reading by the fire.

20. Who’s your style muse?

Despite all of the dresses I have posted on my instagram lately, I love 90’s sporty-chic fashion. I have always leaned a bit more “tom-boy” so I love masculine cuts and oversized fits. The Olsen Twins are huge inspiration for me, as well as Jennifer Anniston in her younger years! Some current ladies I love are @laurendito, @gaciavtn and all of my friends! There is truly no one I find cooler than my friends, they are my true influencers.

21. 3 words to describe your style, go…

Versatile, polished & effortless.

& Everything else…

22. What’s one trend you’re currently loving and hoping to stay for the long haul?

Salomon sneakers. To be honest, even if they go “out of style” I will wear them forever.

23. You decide to treat yourself. How do you indulge?

A comfort show & ice cream always.

24. How do you typically spend a day off?

My ideal day off is doing a quick reset of my house and then spending quality time with my friends and family. Recently we have been loving playing cards by the fire!

25. What’s the last hobby you picked up just for fun?

I randomly ordered a harmonica and taught myself how to play piano man…

26. What’s a smell that takes you back to your childhood?

Campfires/bonfires. We used to go camping with my whole extended family for a month every summer when I was little.

27. When’s the last time a stranger made you smile?

I love interacting with strangers, I try to compliment a stranger every time I go anywhere so that always makes me smile.

28. What’s something you still find magical, no matter how old you get?

Getting wrapped up in a movie or a TV show or a book! I love that feeling of being sucked into a whole other world and shutting reality off for a short time. It also gets your imagination going which I think is so important as an adult.

29. One place in the world you’re dying to visit?

Croatia!! For many reasons but if you have seen Game of Thrones you get it. The beaches look like they are too good to be true.

30. What’s a movie you’ve seen recently that left a big impact on you?

I recently watched Pride & Prejudice for the fist time and it left me speechless. I absolutely love a period piece but I also feel like there is a warmth to older movies that we really lack these days. I also love the message in the film. I still dream about the scenery!

31. Guilty pleasure?

Binge watching Survivor.

32. What’s the last thing you bought that you’re really excited about?

I don’t know if this counts because I bought it about 6 months ago, but my Fujifilm X100VI. I am OBSESSED. It is basically a digital camera that is compact and can do it all. It has a feature where you can set “recipes” that make the photos look like film photos.

33. What do you miss?

Dancing! I was a competitive dancer until I was 18 but injured my back and was told I couldn’t dance anymore…

34. What no longer impresses you?

Social media followers! Some of the most inspiring and talented people I know/follow are small creators. And that’s not saying that people with lots of followers don’t deserve it, it’s just something I have learned not to focus so much on!

35. Song currently on repeat?

I have crazy music taste and am always listening to a little bit of everything… hard to pick so my top three would be “My Way” by Frank Sinatra, “Delete Ya” by Djo, and “Ain’t got nothing on you” by Leon Bridges!

36. Favourite form of movement / exercise?

I am so passionate about movement & exercise and there is so many things I love! I am a big fan of strength training & right now I have a membership at Oxygen which is a mix of heated classes. I have been trying to go to mostly the heated strength classes and I have been loving it!!

37. If you could rename yourself, what name would you choose?

I have wished for a new name my whole life haha. No one could spell or say my name right when I was growing up because of the unique spelling (Giuliana). My mom always tells me she almost named me Francesca and would have called me Frankie which I think is so cute… so probably that!

38. How do you handle stress on busy days?

This can be so tough, but I truly think making a small list and trying to do things one at a time is the only thing that helps me. Also trying to not put too much pressure on little things. It’s important to give yourself grace when you are feeling stressed. I also think taking 10 mins for yourself to eat, or do skincare or even read can really help de-stress!

39. Tell me a bit about what you do for work.

I have never been the person who knew exactly what I wanted to do with my life so I feel like I have dabbled in so many jobs. I recently finished school for Graphic Design so I do that on the side but my main job is running a flower farm with my mom! We started about 2 years ago and are still finding our footing but it has been such an amazing, creative job. I am so excited to see where we take it!

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season. Ours was the sweetest one I’ve ever experienced, made magical by having a newborn at home, and by our family coming to visit and spend time with him. Sharing our very first Christmas with Wesley et al. felt incredibly special.

I’m now almost 8 weeks postpartum and feeling really good. The first couple of weeks after birth are already a blur. I spent most of that time in bed; my body sore, my stamina shockingly low, even a short walk around the block feeling like a big feat. But day by day, my body slowly began to feel recognizable again.

Around weeks 5 and 6, I started easing back into movement (barre mat, longer walks, short hikes). More recently, I’ve returned to lifting weights and even taken a few spin classes. I’m in awe of what this body has carried me through, how adaptable it is, and what it’s capable of. Watching it morph into so many different shapes and sizes over the last year has been incredible to witness. One of my goals in 2026 is to return to running (in a smart and sustainable way) and PB a marathon.

Motherhood, so far, has been more joyful than I expected. If I’m being honest, I was nervous about having a newborn during winter. I had a bit of antenatal depression during pregnancy, and I usually feel the effects of seasonal depression each year, so I thought for sure I’d experience some PPD. In my worst moments, I imagined myself stuck inside with a screaming newborn, a dark house, endless rain, and my old life feeling impossibly far away.

But that hasn’t been my reality at all. If anything, it’s been the opposite. Don’t let anyone scare you that your life is “over” when you have a baby.

I often come back to this quote: “How we spend our days is how we spend our lives.” My days look different than they did two months ago, but I don’t feel like I’ve “lost myself” at all. I’m still doing things for myself, seeing friends, and being social. I’m still romanticizing the in-between, ordinary, boring moments and days. I’m still challenging myself in small but meaningful ways (like breastfeeding in public for the first time) and learning to roll with the punches when things inevitably don’t go exactly as planned. I love leaving the house and taking my baby with me where-ever I go. He’s my ball and chain, my bud, my bestie!

And no, it hasn’t all been easy and I refuse to chalk everything up to saying he’s just an “easy baby”.

That being said, I’ve also spent a lot of time at home, binging some great shows and reading some great books. Below is a mini version, an amuse bouche if you will, of the monthly round up emails I usually send out. I’m testing out some things with my Substack right now, so thanks for your patience.

I hope you enjoy the read, and I hope your year is off to a great start!

1. WATCH —

📺 The Beast in Me

I’m not sure why more people aren’t talking about this show. It was SO good. I love a stand alone mini series. One season, that’s it, that’s all. This show is about a once-celebrated author who hasn’t published anything since the tragic death of her young son and the collapse of her marriage. She’s isolated, grief-stricken, and creatively blocked. Everything changes when her new neighbour —a charismatic, wealthy real-estate executive who was once the prime suspect in his wife’s mysterious disappearance — moves in. She sees in him both a fascinating subject for her next book and a puzzle she must solve.

If you liked The Undoing, you’ll like this.

📺 I Love LA

This show follows Rachel Sennott’s character, Maia, a twenty-something LA-girlie, who works at a social media talent agency and is feeling a bit stuck professionally. Her life gets shaken up when her ex–best friend from college, a wildly successful social-media influencer, shows up after years apart. Maia begins to manage Tallulah’s career, hoping that this will finally launch her own success — even though that choice brings chaos, competition, and plenty of awkward moments.

If you liked Girls, you’ll like this.

🎬 Marty Supreme

This movie needs no introduction. I’m sure you’ve all heard about it through Chalamet’s intense marketing and promotion of it. Thanks to a pal who had a hook up, I got to see an early screening of this movie and was thoroughly entertained. Marty Mauser is relentless in his pursuit of greatness. Dream Big! Timmy is going to lose his mind if he doesn’t get the Oscar for this one.

Other shows I recently watched and liked: The Chair Company, Emily in Paris S5, & Disclaimer.

2. READ —

📚 Slanting Towards the Sea

I was completely taken by this story. Our protagonist Ivona, a woman in her late 30s, is unraveling after her life has taken a series of disappointing turns. 10 years later, she is still confronting the emotional aftermath of her divorce from her ex husband, Vlaho. Vlaho, now remarried with children, has built a new life, but Ivona remains intertwined with his world. When a new man enters Ivona’s life, the delicate dynamic among them is shaken and Ivona is forced to confront the real reason why she left him almost a decade prior. Set in Croatia, this book is gorgeously written, with strong lyrical and emotional prose. It was a 5/5 star for me!

📚 Vera, or Faith

A completely original and unique story that follows Vera, a precocious and anxious 10-year-old girl, as she tries to make sense of the adult world around her, while grappling with family turmoil, society in flux and even her own identity. She desperately wants three things:

1. to make a friend,

2. to keep her parents together, and

3. to meet her birth mother (“Mom Mom”)

This book is deeply moving and funny in unexpected ways. It was another 5/5 star for me!

3. WEAR —

I got these clogs for my mom for Christmas, and she got a pair for me, and it’s all I’ve been wearing. They are ridiculously comfortable, and somehow still very chic. I want to get the Cozy Clogs next, and noticed they are on sale right now. How very tempting.

I also bought these Levi Barrel jeans after seeing them on my friend, and I can’t stop reaching for them. Super comfy, baggy, and cool. I got them in wash ‘Most Wanted’, but I really like the ‘Rebel Edge Black’.

Lastly, my SIL got me this phone necklace that I’ve been OBSESSED with. Open House in Victoria has a bunch of them, good luck selecting a colour!

4. LISTEN —

I’m pretty hit or miss with listening to Armchair Anonymous, but this Best Of Fridays episode was perfect for me. The third story of the Mormon couple losing their virginity had me in absolute stitches. Give it a whirl next time you’re in the car.

Speaking of Rachel Sennott, her episode on Good Hang with Amy Poehler was a gift! You’ll get a real taste of her personality and comedy, I promise, you can’t help but become obsessed with her.

5. EAT —

What I’ve been eating a lot of recently:

One Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Bake

Favourite Fall Salad

Garlicky Chicken With Lemon-Anchovy Sauce

10 things on my wish list:

1. This cuffed beanie with faux fur trim is making me want to book a chalet getaway. I tried it on in person, and it is certified cute af. On sale.

2. It’s giving off-duty ballerina. Made with merino wool and cashmere for super softness. On sale in select colours.

3. I bought these for my SIL for her birthday because the pop of red was just too jolly to pass up. A cashmere cocoon for your hands. On sale.

4. I bought a couple of these car scents as Christmas gifts and they smell divine and look unexplainably cool? I have an alert for when this scent becomes available again.

5. Told you I’m denim barrel obsessed! I’ve seen these overalls on a few influencers, and I am totally influenced.

6. I’ll be on my second order of this tinted brown lip oil, it’s a new favourite. Tastes like my favourite latté.

7. Most darling bonnet, so that I can match my son, of course.

8. 2026 is the year I get back into running, and maybe these fast glasses will have a placebo affect?

9. A new favourite swim style by a tried and true favourite brand.

10. A pipe dream for this maternity-leave mama right now, but I’m really into this style and cherry red colour.

TW: For anyone who’s currently pregnant; this story is not meant to scare you. My birth was intense, but it was also incredibly positive, empowering, and beautiful. I know birth stories can affect people differently, so please read with care :)

My pregnancy itself was uncomplicated and fairly easy. I had very little nausea in the first trimester, barely any discomfort until much later on, and even as I approached 42 weeks, I didn’t feel desperate to “get the baby out.” The main recurring issue I had was cramping.

At 38 weeks, I had nonstop cramping for five days straight and became convinced I was on the verge of labour. The sensation was sharp, persistent, and often enough to fold me over, unable to stand fully upright. Heat and Tylenol helped, but only temporarily.

Because so many women I knew had their baby’s early this year (9 out of 12 friends had babies earlier than their due date in just September - November alone) I was sure I’d be the same, and that my body was gearing up, that this was it. But after the fifth day, the cramps faded, and didn’t return. I felt more or less normal again.

At my 39-week midwife appointment, I opted for a cervical sweep. I was on the fence about getting one. I didn’t want to meddle with divine timing, but every pregnant friend around me had gotten one, and I was curious if it would actually work. I’ll never forget that first sweep. I was shocked at how unpleasant and painful it was. As the midwife circled her fingers in my cervix, breaking the mucosal seal, I broke into a cold sweat on the table and my confidence immediately plummeted. If this is how bad a cervical sweep hurts, I am doomed for childbirth, I thought. She told me I was about 1 cm dilated and that she could feel the baby’s head. I took that as gospel: surely I’d have this baby any day now.

Read more

As I’ve been in the newborn trenches, I’m going to combine my monthly Everything about November and December post together, and instead focus on writing out my birth story, which will be accessible for paid subscribers.

For now, I present you with the annual zodiac gift guide.