It’s unfair how much faster the 31 days in July go than the 31 days in January. I spent my July feeling like I was in my 20s again. One of my best friends was in town for the entire month. Even though we both have kids now, it felt like we were right back to living together in 2010. Speaking of throwing it back to my 20s, we also had a long weekend in NYC to celebrate a college friend’s1 bachelorette weekend.

Let’s see - what else was I up to? I narrowly avoided getting a parasite from the lettuce at Taco Bell because multiple locations in Central Ohio were affected. BUT I STILL LOVE YOU, GIRL. Spent a lot of time at our local water park, Zoombeezi Bay, floating in the adults-only lazy river and riding water slides. Went on a lot of date nights with James while Rebecca was at various camps or with her grandparents.

A month that left me feeling young, wild, and free.

TEN FAVORITES

Z Biotics Pre-Alcohol Drink - I do not drink frequently. Part of it is that I have always been a social drinker and never thought it was worth the hangover to drink at home. If I am on a trip with friends, I will partake in a cocktail or two - or if celebrating a bachelorette party, maybe five. These Z-Biotics are expensive, but worth it when it comes to travel for me - being hungover when you are on a trip is the WORST. One little shot before you start drinking for the day to help you feel better the next day (you do still have to drink responsibly - lots of water throughout the night, no empty stomach, etc)

• Britt and Missy drink more frequently than I do, and both swear by the ultimate hangover insurance - Z Biotics before drinking and Cheers Restore capsules before bed.

• I love sparkling wine and champagne in the summer, so I will also use these drops to help prevent wine headaches - just one drop! I can’t tell a difference in taste, but I am not a wine expert.

Maggie girl, my niece. She is four months old and an absolute doll. My brother and sister-in-law make the cutest kids.

Our trip to NYC was so fun. Even better? I finally realized how much cheaper and faster the Subway is. We saved HUNDREDS. It probably helped that it was summertime and the city wasn't as crowded on a weekend.

4 AM Makeup wipes - These may have been a favorite last month, but with a summer full of travel, they remain a favorite. I picked them up at Target while on a trip and loved how they removed all my makeup while leaving my face feeling both clean and hydrated - not sticky or tight. Perfect for nights when you do not feel like washing your face (usually after a few drinks…).

Corn on the cob boiled in a butter and milk mixture. I had never tried it before and — WOW. It makes the juiciest corn. I am going to have to get some tomorrow. I filled up my pot half way with water, added a cup of milk and a little butter. My brother said you are supposed to add a whole stick of butter, but I did not have a whole stick.

The Roxanne Assoulin store in NYC. It was SO fun picking out charms for our necklaces. I think we spent an hour trying out all the different combinations. What I love about her charms is that you can move them to other necklaces, too. The employees were so helpful, too! Plus, they have extenders for most of their necklaces. A+ shopping experience and worth the trip uptown. Here is an example of what I did with my charms.

I can’t believe this Sephora Favorites set of mini moisturizers (and a full-size lip mask) is still in stock. I do not change up my skincare, but do regularly change up my moisturizers based on what I need and the time of day. This kit is a great way to try out new moisturizers or even just have them available for travel. Three of the regular moisturizers I use are included - Tatcha Dewy Milk (this gives the best glow), Sofie Pavitt (acne safe), and Dieux Instant Air Angel (gel moisturizer that is good for oily skin, but I like to use it in the summertime). I ended up buying two because I love having them stocked in my travel toiletries bag.

Other favorites:

• No pic, but if you swim a lot or have a kid that does, these little packets help remove all of the chlorine and take your hair from feeling like straw to feeling like your hair again. Use them after you shampoo, but before conditioner, once a week.

• Storing cut-up watermelon in a pitcher. WOW. If you love watermelon, this is a great hack. It can store an entire watermelon and drain it before you get any out. The hacks I saw on Instagram all used a round pitcher, but I love this pitcher because it is leak-proof and easier to fit in the fridge.

• These no-show sock liners. They are thin, but do not budget. Great for low-profile sneakers, loafers, and some flats. I have the more expensive version, and these are just as good.

• Cooler Shock. An ice pack or dry ice substitute that we use ALL summer. We have the cooler pack, and it will keep everything COLD for days. We also have the lunch box packs, and they work so well sometimes the Uncrustables do not thaw. Just follow the directions for how much water to add when you first get them.

Somehow we’re talking about July favorites at the end of August, which feels rude considering July was apparently the last time it wasn’t raining here in Ohio.

Back then, we were young. We had hope. We knew we still had one more partial month of swimming days and warm nights downtown. Anyway, here are ten things I loved during our last known period of pleasant outdoor conditions.

TEN FAVORITES

New York and a show - I will never, ever turn down a trip to New York. Forever favorite. The walking, the subway, the people, the food, the shows. I arrive and immediately feel, I don’t know, like I just fit there?

We were there for Stef’s bachelorette and a few work meetings when Sarah and I decided to see Oh, Mary! We bought tickets 45 minutes before curtain, which turned last-minute Broadway tickets into a sprint through Grand Central Station, a mistaken train, a blister and a sister fight. But we made it.

Maybe choosing New York AND Oh, Mary! as favorites is cheating because New York has a permanent spot on my list and you are probably reading this like, okay Missy we get it. You love New York.

Meg Stalter as Mary was legitimately hilarious. I cannot imagine anyone playing her better. The whole thing is unhinged, so funny and so well acted, and the cabaret at the end was an absolute joy.

Sarah chose Oh, Mary! because it was the shortest show, which feels important to mention. My mom never went to movies because she said she’d spend the entire time thinking about how she could be home in her nightgown watching a movie instead. Sarah has inherited this spirit.

It was also Sarah’s first Broadway show on Broadway, which made me unexpectedly sentimental. What a cool life we get to live that we can be in New York together, buy Broadway tickets 45 minutes before curtain, sprint through Grand Central Station and Times Square like idiots, and grab a late-night bite at Union Square Cafe on a whim.

Perfect night, really.

The primo blister bandages - Speaking of, I got a NASTY blister after getting my foot caught in a subway door during our aforementioned sprint to Broadway.

The next day, before Don Angie (shoutout summer restaurant availability and Chase Sapphire Reserve tables), I stopped at the West Village CVS - you know the one inexplicably housed in a beautiful building - and found these Dr. Scholl’s blister bandages.

Guys. Blister technology has been advancing since I last had a blister. They’re clear, they actually stay on, AND they come with a little lidocaine insert you can add if you’re in pain. I was.

I recently used one for a paper cut, too, so I’ve now decided they’re part of my travel and first-aid kit.

10/10. Huge year for people who get blisters.

These soft pants - While we were in New York, we went to the New York Nordstrom flagship, which is technically another favorite, but we’ll call it a bonus favorite since I’ve only mentioned it approximately 15 other times.

Sarah was shopping around and found these green striped pants from a brand I’d never heard of, Nobody’s Child (they have cute stuff.) Unfortunately, they are perfect and I have to give her the credit for them. I have received a frankly astonishing number of compliments on them. The color, the fit, the way they hang. Just an extremely good pant.

This dress - was a find and a very good one - so good it made my favorites list. Around $150, surprisingly flattering for a mini dress, and I got so many compliments on it (again, important measure of value.) I did Microstitch the slit a little more closed.

I wore it with the earrings I grabbed at Roxanne Assoulin - these little green cluster earrings - and my favorite x Reformation clutch.

It does have a low back so I used the reusable Cakes boob tape, which held up through Brooklyn summer rooftop cocktails and five hours at Ms. Kim’s karaoke room. Thoroughly tested. Also, our 21% off Cakes code still works - CAKESQ3SISTER.

A matching cozy set - Closing out the clothing favorites - these Faherty sweater shorts are a favorite. I love a sweater short, and there is something about waltzing around my house in a matching set that makes me feel fancy. There is a matching cardigan that is so fall cozy plus can be paired with anything from jeans to dress pants. They are a little on the pricier side, but I have been so impressed by the quality of just about everything Faherty makes. James and Anders have both really loved what they have found at Faherty too, so if you need to shop for a man in your life - a very solid option.

Headache caps - There is something about summer that leaves me with a couple headaches a week. That’s probably dehydration, but at least this headache cap helps. It is one of my favorite purchases of the year so far. It stays cool, but you can put it in the freezer or even warm it up before you put it on. It truly has saved me - I have it on right now as a nurse, a post-pool day hangover this morning. Plus, it gives Johannes Vermeer an added bonus.

Johnny Marzetti is apparently an Ohio name and specific recipe for a more common goulash, but all I know is that every time I make it, it makes me feel nostalgia for my childhood and family dinners. My mom used to make it, and her recipe is different than others I have seen. I documented it and added the things I love (like green peppers.) Super easy, and I swear the leftovers are even better than the fresh servings.

Other favorites:

• I have talked about this Eby sheer bralette a lot before. Since I am in my bridal era, I grabbed one of the newer flocked sheer styles. IT IS HOT. If you want to feel sexy and supported but also want to feel comfortable and like you are wearing loungewear, you cannot go wrong. I paired the new seafoam green bra with the matching brief. I love that they offer size inclusivity up to 4X too. And not to be crass, but these sets are definitely among Anders’ favorite things from 2026. Our code MYSISTERMADEMEBUYIT15 still works for 15% off too.

• We received some extra sets of the best-selling (for a reason) bamboo sheets from Quince, and we have been sharing the loot with our friends and family because Sarah and I both have a lot of sheet sets. I gave a set to one of Anders’ and my friends, and they really love them. Th ey are really soft, and this color is very good. Not too feminine, not too masculine, and not white. Also works with deeper mattresses.

That wraps it up. We will have some juicy giveaways coming up, too, because our office is stacked with PR, and Sarah and I are both very overstimulated by it.

Since I already did half of the work on compiling the sales and tracking everything we have linked so far, and everyone is still sleeping (except for Ben and Kelly - they do have a toddler and a 4-month-old) - I am updating from the same rocking chairs my parents sat in. They would have loved being here with us and their grandkids.

Before we get to our curation of sales and all of the links you may have missed, I WOULD LOVE IT IF YOU READ BELOW.

Two giveaways and a fundraiser

We are currently crowdsourcing micro donations on our stories for Black Fairy Godmother’s (BFGM) Save a Home campaign. Black Fairy Godmother is a 501 (c ) (3) charity that uses social media and mutual aid to raise funds for Black and Brown marginalized families. We have raised over $30k for the organization over the years. Over the past few years, we have participated in the “Save A Home” campaign, where BFGM reviews the need applications and compiles all those that need financial assistance or risk eviction.

After reading the Pulitzer Prize-winning book Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City, I couldn’t stop thinking about the stories of the people who face eviction and how long it affected their lives. That is why we usually focus on helping prevent evictions or preventing utility shut-offs through the charity. A few of the people asking for assistance this year:

We took on a few ShopMy Opportunities (brands pay you to link to or mention them) last month that we probably wouldn't have otherwise, and we raised $2,000.

This year we are doing the same and asking you for any type of donation you may have - even $1 helps! So far we have raised $3,500 in micro-donations. But I would LOVE to get to $5,000.

You can donate directly to Black Fairy Godmother’s Paypal if you want a receipt, our Venmo, or send a Zelle or Paypal to mysistermademebuyit@gmail.com

If you are not on Instagram, we are currently giving away TWO travel Sleep Crowns (as donated by Sleep Crown). I will also be posting about giving away a box filled with gifts (including a $400 leather bag) today. You can enter both here. While we are not doing a “donate for entry” because that makes it a lottery, I am doing a “enter and hopefully feel compelled to donate.”

A round up of our favorite sales:

• Hotel Lobby Candle - 20% off - Their only annual sale of the year. Plus, you did not hear it from me, but if you add three candles to your cart and go to check out (this is what happened when I checked out yesterday), they will ask you if you want to add another candle, and if you do, you get a free perfume! I love the London perfume.

• Flamingo Estate - Another luxury home goods brand — the Green Goddess is one of my favorite candles, ever. I received as a gift (they make great gifts) and burned it at the office. I would have people drop in to ask what the scent is because they loved it so much.

  

• Bare Necessities Top Drawer Sale (sponsored mention) - Bare Necessities carries a lot of brands that rarely go on sale - the expensive, but worth it brands. Her picks:

  • This bra is good for tees and has side coverage, so it helps keep your sides looking smoother.

  • Also have this minimizer bra, and I like it a lot for sweaters - especially crew neck and turtlenecks that make me look like I have one big uniboob. Comfortable straps that don’t dig too.

  • This sports bra is probably my only high-impact one, and it works well (I just hate high-impact workouts). It also supports your back.

  • This is a pretty good strapless bra. It is not quite as supportive as the red carpet (the BEST strapless bra that rarely goes on sale) for very large chests, but it lifts like it and stays up. If you’re smaller than a DD, I think this is a great sale option.

• Soma - $30 bra event - every bra is $30, including the follower favorite wireless Enbliss bra.

• Anthropologie - 30% off selected items

• Tevas are never discounted, but they are 30% off every color. I LOVE these. Have been wearing the past two summers and they are the best if you have any sort of foot pain - they provide arch support while also anchoring your heel to the sandal so your toes don’t have to work overtime.

  • My pink mirrored dress. I am between sizes, so I am unsure on sizing here. I am wearing a 2X in the pic above, but it was a little baggy, but fit in shoulders. I would look at the reviews for more details. It really is a cute party/event dress, though.

• J. Crew - Extra 75% off some sale items

  

  • I loved how I felt and looked in this dress - very Doen-esque. And it is less than $30?! It is final sale, but I just sized up one from their size chart and it fit perfectly on me. It is great if you are apple shapes. Also available in this color.

Amazon has 30% off some of my favorite lip products.

That’s it for now! Gotta go hang out with my family!

XX Sarah

Viva Las Vegas

We started the week in Las Vegas with Sarah, James, Brittany, Anders, and me doing wedding recon. Anders unfortunately had to work a lot, which feels unfair when the rest of us were doing the very important work of eating, shopping, drinking, and then remembering there is a wedding happening that I need to be focused on.

Despite this, I was pretty booked and busy. I met with our photographer and a content creator, had my hair and makeup trial, taste-tested the reception menu (we all did and let me tell you - delicious!), went to Mayfair Supper Club, ate Din Tai Fung x 2, wandered around the Cosmo, found the secret ski bar and pizza shop, shopped, and somehow came home with actual plans for my bachelorette. Sarah even bought her first luxury bag while drunk on a few glasses of complementary champagne.

Since we’re doing the bachelorette, bachelor party, wedding, and general Vegas debauchery in one weekend, this trip was basically a corporate offsite except the deliverables were planning karaoke and deciding where everyone should drink and eat in a few months.

Sarah and Britt also gambled quite a bit. Weirdly, despite being an impulsive person who loves an immediate dopamine hit, gambling does almost nothing for me. Apparently there is ONE area of my life where my brain is like, “This seems financially irresponsible.” This is the sole area, though.

Still living our best 90’s summer

Then, last night I went to the Ohio State Fair to see Spin Doctors, Gin Blossoms, and Blues Traveler. This era of music is what I call “songs that were playing at the pool when we were kids,” and hearing them live made me like a kid at the Skate n’ Swim again. I also got cheese on a stick AND steak on a stick, which are two of my favorite foods and, frankly, the best combo you can get. I wish you could combine them on a single stick, like a steak-and-cheese stick, but instead I have them separately and eat one bite of each in a row.

Afterward, I went to a birthday party, drank considerably more than I have in months, and today I am paying for that choice.

So naturally, while lying in bed and reflecting on my bad decisions, I found some good sales.

Here’s a recap of what we shared on stories this week + some sales that are totally worth it.

Subscribe now

What we (well, Sarah) cooked and what we ate

Sarah and I were at the office again this week and she could not stop talking about what she was making for dinner. Apparently this was suggested by a lot of you and Sarah said it was GOOD. Here is the Pinch of Yum recipe. Sarah uses the frozen Alexa sweet potato fries and air fries them. She also hates chopping herbs, so she uses Garden Gourmet partially dried cilantro (find in produce aisle with other herbs.)

We ate our way through my wedding menu at Beauty & Essex Las Vegas and it was all really good. The standout though? These Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup Dumplings. A little ball of bread and cheese in a rich and hearty tomato soup spoon push. I honestly am still thinking about them.

Sarah also shared this really good Taco Bell Quesadilla order.

What we linked

Sarah told us all that she “totally didn’t pack anything cute” and then emerged in, obviously, a very cute outfit. Her pants are sheer, as you can see, but much less sheer in person than they look online. She wore them with shoes she bought for my wedding, which really made the whole thing, plus her new favorite necklace and one of the Reformation x bags I brought. We LOVE these bags. Her tank is also from Courtney’s Reformation line, because she just co-designed some really cute stuff.

I was going for my best Mr. & Mrs. Smith vibe in this Peixoto set I grabbed from Shopbop. I wore it again to the fair last night and got so many compliments, which I’m not sure carry the same weight at a state fair, but I accepted them nonetheless.

Breezy, gauzy and boho. Skirt runs a little large and a little long.

And finally, Sarah is obsessed with these sour cherries, so obviously I bought them too. Unfortunately, she was right. 10/10. The only issue is stopping before you eat enough sour coating to remove the roof of your mouth.

What we read

I just finished The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett and LOVED it. A bunch of you told me to do the audiobook specifically, and you were correct. It’s one of those books where the narration adds so much that I’m not sure I would have loved it quite as much reading it on the page.

It’s funny and weird and full of women making questionable decisions, which is obviously a genre I enjoy. The characters feel so specific that by the end I was less interested in finding out what happened and more interested in just continuing to hang out with them.

A lot of you also warned me that you were genuinely sad when it ended because you wanted more, and SAME. Not because it felt unfinished, but because I wasn’t ready to be done with these people yet.

Basically: if you like complicated women, dark humor, chaos, and books that feel like someone is telling you an extremely good story, you need this one. And get the audiobook.

Speaking of complicated women in literature, this month is my month to host my friend’s book club, and I picked Margo’s Got Money Troubles. I have read it once before, but I am enjoying the reread, and I can’t wait to talk about it. Trying to figure out how to host a themed night based on the book but…yeah, interesting to say the least.

Nordstrom Sale last call

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale ends today. We have already written an entire Substack about our favorite things, what we bought, and what was actually worth it, so please refer to our previous Substack if you want the in-depth recap - for today, I’m going to share some of our best sellers that are still in stock.

• The best towels ever. Truly.

• These Adidas shoes that make every outfit more fun. Plus they are light, supportive, and easy to walk in. Size down 1/2 size.

• Stock up on these Touchland Glow Mists for back to school. Rebecca and her friends are obsessed with collecting these.

• These Steve Madden boots look significantly more expensive than they are. Fit my 15.75-inch calves with lots of room to spare.

• This candle that both Sarah and I have already repurchased. The three-wick is still in stock. Has really great throw. Perfectly herby and fresh.

• These drawstring Free People jeans. They run a little big.

• Not a best seller, but an honorable mention for these COS pants in the Anniversary Sale because they are the perfect work pant. 100% cotton, thick enough to flow nicely over the body but also still breathable. The adjustable waist back detail is also very cute.

Bluemercury sale

Bluemercury is having a really good summer sale and a couple of things are really, really good buys. This pill case is 50% off and seems random, but it is one of the only ones I have found that has AM/PM and stays shut. Plus, it is cute. I used to have one but left it at a hotel, so I am grabbing this while it is on sale. There is a decent amount of room in these as well for larger pills, like supplements.

Also, getting a Beautyblender for under $10 is a pretty amazing deal - this is the smaller version, which I love for under eyes and cream bronzers and blushes. I think that might even be cheaper than some of the dupes out there.

I also really like this fragrance from Heretic. If you like a fresh masculine scent with a little edge, this is a good one and the small size is 50% off.

Clarins Cryo-Flash Mask 30% off

Also on sale: the Clarins Cryo-Flash Mask, aka Step Two of my very sophisticated hangover regimen.

It is cooling, smells good, feels incredible if I have a headache or sinus situation and, most importantly, makes my face look and feel much more hydrated and supple.

The best K-Beauty balm to use with your Theraface

Part 1 of hangover and/or headache recovery is my Theraface wand on the cool setting. And the best product to use under it? This K-beauty PDRN Essence Balm that is 25% off. It’s basically a giant skincare ChapStick that I swipe directly onto any part of my face that has started looking tired, dry, or 39. Sarah got me hooked on it.

Freda Salvador sandals 15% off

Freda Salvador’s very popular Fisherman Sandal is 15% off right now. Our friend Molly just got back from a trip to Portugal and Spain, and she tested these sandals to their limit. She said they not only navigated the rocky and winding streets of Portugal, but she wore them for many 10k+ steps days with no blisters or pain. Plus they are very cute.

Anthropologie extra 50% off sale

I know Anthropologie does this extra 50% off sale a lot, but they recently just added a lot of new items to sale, including some great shoes and higher-cost brands. My secret to getting the best deals on higher-end brands is to go to the clothing category and sort from high to low. I have found a lot of Simon Miller, Retrofete, Reformation, Sau Lee, Paige, and Mother picks for just about the lowest prices you will find through this sale. I really like this dress.

This table runner is very cute. I love finding fun dinnerware while it is on sale. It adds a little whimsy to cooking, too. This one has such a nostalgic feeling to me, and I love it.

I think that just about covers it. Let us know what you want to see more of here or on the feed. We have opinions on most things and I do best when given an assignment.

If you’re worried this is about to become a wedding account, you can relax. I’m not organized enough as a bride nor consistent enough as a content creator to ever make that happen.

Earlier this week on Stories, I asked if anyone even wanted to see wedding dress content because I’ve tried on a lot of dresses. Also, and I say this with complete sincerity, I look really good in bridalwear. I’m just being honest.

It was genuinely so fun to see how many of you wanted more wedding stuff. I probably should’ve known. I’m incredibly nosey when it comes to other people’s weddings, and I will always have a deep respect for anyone else who is, too.

What surprised me most wasn’t the dress messages. It was how many of you said, “I’m planning a wedding at 39,” or 41, or 47. There are, apparently, tens of us!

And then there were all the messages from people who aren’t engaged, aren’t dating, or have absolutely no intention of getting married. You just wanted to see what a wedding can look like when life doesn’t follow the timeline you thought it would.

That, more than wedding dresses, is the story I can tell.

The wedding I wasn’t planning

The internet has approximately 14 million opinions about wedding dresses, florals, and whether you should do photos before or after the ceremony. There is considerably less content about planning a wedding when half the people you always assumed would be sitting in the front row aren’t here anymore.

I’m getting married at almost 40. Both of my parents are dead. A surprising amount of my family is dead, actually. I’ve lost close friends. Anders has, too.

I kept thinking I couldn’t decide what kind of wedding I wanted.

That wasn’t really the problem.

I was trying to plan an event for people who were never going to RSVP.

Eventually I stopped trying to recreate the wedding I’d imagined at 28 and started planning the one that makes sense now.

So we’re going to Vegas!

A Very Tasteful Affair

We’re bringing the people who can come. And because it’s a destination wedding, we’re also letting go of the expectation that everyone can or will. Flights are expensive. People have kids, jobs, budgets, and lives. We genuinely don’t want anyone to feel guilty if they can’t make it.

That is unless I came to your destination wedding; then I do think this is a beautiful opportunity to apply some good ol’ fashioned reciprocity. (Kidding, mostly.)

Las Vegas turns out to be the perfect place to let go of the story you thought your life would follow. Nothing there is pretending to be understated. It’s camp. It’s excessive. It’s loud. It’s completely uninterested in being tasteful, and I find that particularly comforting.

By the time you get married at almost 40, you’ve usually learned that life isn’t particularly interested in your original plans either.

So you might as well just have Elvis officiate?

Our wedding plan is retro Vegas. A little Sinatra. A little Elvis. A little Donna Summer. Were they all from the same era? Absolutely not. But neither are we.

We’ll wander through every tourist trap we can find, fully embracing our Midwestern enthusiasm for shiny things. We’ll drink more dirty martinis than water. We’ll probably end up at a buffet (hopefully the Wynn one; can’t take any risks and we need those mashed potatoes.) We’ll absolutely ride the gondolas at the Venetian, catch a Medieval Times battle, eat at at least one Lisa Vanderpump Restaurant, and go to the top of the fake Eiffel Tower.

None of it is particularly cool.

Which is convenient, because neither are we anymore.

Life happened. Sales happened. We shared a lot. Here's the abridged version: a few highlights, a few good deals, and things we’re loving.

Living our best 90’s summer

Sarah had friends in town and, as the saying absolutely goes, su amigas es mi amigas. (Don’t fact-check me on that one.)

We are Zoombezi Bay’s (our local water park) biggest fans. As previously established, we are a household that values nostalgia, lazy rivers, and a good funnel cake. Zoombezi Bay checks every box. It used to be called Wyandot Lake, and we spent a few magical summers there as kids, even though it was 45 minutes away from where we lived. Maybe you remember this story about Sarah trying to sneak in a bagel (?!) so she could use her money for a puka shell necklace instead of food?

We rode slides, drank cocktails in the adults-only lazy river (aptly named Croctail Island), and generally just lived like we were 12. Rebecca graciously volunteered (and was rewarded with $$) to hang with some of Sarah’s friends’ kids while their parents went on slides. I took on the equally important responsibility of helping those same kids find the coolest rocks in central Ohio.

We rode Cyclone, where we discovered one of the best perks of adulthood: being just under the weight limit on a raft slide. We caught actual airtime, which felt both exhilarating and truly terrifying. Ten out of ten.

It was the kind of summer day our '90s kid selves lived for. Apparently, not much has changed.

What we cooked

Not a lot, but Sarah did post a few recipes:

What we linked

Home/ Health / Kids

• Collapsible soaking tub, with drain - like a portable sink that folds flat! I use it for soaking/handwashing clothes and shoes, and have another one for soaking veggies!

• Headache cap - since the air quality has been absolute garbage, I have had sinus issues and a lot of headaches. This cap has saved me. This is my favorite one because it is tight but not unbearable. It stays cool but is even better straight from the fridge.

• Jon’s Garbage Truck Toy - Truly, even I am entertained by this toy. The trash can and dumpster can be attached to the lifting parts of the toy and actually lift and dump into the back of the truck. Sarah’s friends’ kids also loved it - a toy for all ages and genders

Beauty

• My dermatologist recommended this strong exfoliating cream for my dark elbows a few years ago. My heels were looking rough, so I repurchased it because I remembered it worked fast. You only need to apply a little bit, and it changed my elbows in just a few days. I don’t wash it off as instructed. If you do not want to spend as much and have more time, I like to use this exfoliating toner (it’s like 1/4 of the strength) and top with this cream (apparently popular among hairstylists for hands, too!) and moisturizing gel socks.

• (Sarah’s) hair wash routine - James would not stop touching my hair last week because he said it was shiny and soft - so unlike him. I did not even have any product in it - I just have my washday routine, down!

• Sephora favorites set - $145 value!! We love the Sephora Favorites kit, and this moisturizer one is a GREAT value if you are looking to try out a new moisturizer or just want some travel-sized products. In addition to a full-size lip mask, you also get mini sizes of moisturizers that we love - all of which are great in the summer. My favorites are the Tatcha Dewy Milk (incredible finish), Sophie Pavitt (better for night), and Dieux Air Angel (great under makeup), but they are all great.

• 4 AM Cleansing Facial Wipes - Sarah doesn’t remember, but I actually bought these from TikTok Shop about 8 months ago and even brought them for her to try in Cabo. Now she is obsessed with them, but I want the record to state I found them first. They actually clean your skin and leave behind a hydrated feel. Perfect for keeping by your bed when you are too tired to do a whole skincare routine.

• Bespoke Laneige Lip Masks - Rebecca was very excited about this - pick out two flavors and then Laneige will make a custom swirl lip mask for you!

Clothing/Shoes/Accessories

• Cakes Boob Solutions - Cakes is one of those TikTok trending brands I actually really like, so sharing because they’re 31% off (better discount than their sitewide sale) right now with code CAKES-SISTER.

  • I use both the Grippy Cakes and the reusable Boob Tape. The tape is silicone, so if you need to adjust it, you can just peel it off and reapply it. It holds really well and stays put, even during summer. The Grippy Cakes are what I wear with workout tops and swimsuits, as long as I am not doing heavy diving or water sports (but like when do I ever do water sports?)

• My (Sarah’s) friend was visiting from San Francisco this month and was talking about how much she loved her Hokas, but wanted some sandals with arch support. I told her about my favorite Tevas (true to size), and she texted me this week that she was obsessed with them. They are the GOAT of arch support for sandals because even if flip-flops have supportive footbeds, they can still trigger plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis because your toes are doing so much work - your heel needs to be anchored to your footbed.

  • There is a time and place for flip-flops, and I have been wearing this arch support brand for a few years - flip-flops (true to size) for the pool and the slides as house shoes. If you want a cute color, you need to buy directly from the brand.

• My Crocs - My cousin brought these to Gatlinburg, and I thought they looked so sleek and minimal for Crocs. Comfort of Crocs, look like a regular sandal. DSW still has the nude colors in stock.

• Anthropologie Deal - Anthro has a $50/$150 credit back on a $150/$300 order, and I shared the new (replacement) Reformation jeans I grabbed that are in stock there. They are perfectly high-waisted and have a perfect loose-not-sloppy fit. I sized down. Also shared Sarah’s super cute pink mirror-embellished dress she wore in New York.

  

• If you have a big noggin, made a beautiful hat - The Best Hat XL. XL fits my head, but she also has The Best Hat for smaller/regular sized heads. Did you know you can support NPR and buy cute graphic tees? They have so many to choose from, and they are all so cute!

• Hulken Bags - $15 off on QVC - These rolling and collapsible bags one of those rare products that are almost never on sale, but they're absolutely worth it. They were one of the best recommendations Sarah ever introduced me to. If you regularly find yourself hauling groceries, laundry, work supplies, or just too much stuff, they're an absolute game changer. I also use it in my house to organize and move things in and out of the garage and basement. Both the medium size and large size are on sale and we have both but I probably use the medium slightly more often. Goes until end-of-day Monday, July 27 but might sell out.

• Cakes Body - 31% off everything with code CAKES-SISTER and that is actually a better deal that Black Friday last year! Shared my favorites above but the Grippy Cakes and Boob Tape are my top picks.

• Anthropologie has an extra 50% off sale, and there are some very cute items included. Like these sneakers for $40, this cute quilt that is 75% off, and these Pistola jeans for $60. A good time to buy.

• DSW - Save $10/$20/$60 off your order of $49/$99/$149. A really great deal, and DSW sneakily has a lot of harder-to-find styles in stock - like those Crocs.

• Gap - 50% off your purchase, including sale. They have new colors in the Easy Pants Sarah loves, and 50% is about the best deal I have seen on them! Plus you can save an extra 15% if you order from the app. That is a really good savings. I just ordered this tank in a size down because it looks really cute.

• Abercrombie - Buy one get one half off everything. Includes my finally restocked red polka dot bra-free dress and lots of good new arrivals.

• Shopbop - lots of new sale items including some good bags like this Staud beaded bag over 60% off, these cool statement earrings for under $50, and these perfect blue suede Adidas Tokyo sneakers.

• Target has kids’ Back-to-School 20-60% off. Toddler and kids’ backpacks, lunchbags, clothes, school supplies, and shoes are all included.

We’re heading to Vegas next week for wedding administration.

We have reached the point in planning where I need to see everything in person. Hotels and restaurants. Hair and makeup trials. Pool party cabanas. General feelings. Budget hotel reviews.

Sarah and Britt are coming to help with the bachelorette planning. Anders and James are coming too to do some bachelor party research.

If you’ve been to Vegas and have any recommendations that are a little kitsch, genuinely fun, or surprisingly good, send them here.

Hopefully I come home with fewer decisions to make. Hopefully Sarah comes home with a new love for planning wedding-related events. Hopefully we unpack our suitcases when we get home before we leave for the wedding.

July has flown by. I swear it was just July 4th, and now all of a sudden it is July 18th? This is why travel is so hard for me! We got back from a five-day trip to NYC to celebrate a friend’s bachelorette party (who also helps us out for MSMMBI) and had so much fun. I think my issue with trips is that, while they are always fun and worthwhile, I can never fully grasp how long they will actually take.

It is never just a long weekend. It is a long weekend plus a day of beauty prep appointments (spray tan, eyebrow wax, mani/pedi, etc), picking out outfits, making a mess while picking out outfits, packing, and not being able to sleep the night before you fly. The messed-up sleep schedule sticks with you throughout your entire trip. Repeat the packing. The delays. When you finally get home, you can’t even look at your suitcase again (well, I can’t - I know a lot of people are better at this than I am!) Then you have to unpack, do laundry, and clean up the mess you made from trying on all your outfits. Spend three to four days getting back into a sleep routine again.

It is a privilege to take short trips and long vacations, and I am grateful to be afforded such opportunities. I just wish I could give myself a little more grace to ease back into a routine. Maybe not load up my schedule the day before or the day after getting back? I am almost grateful I was up sick all night last night, as it gave me some time to catch up.

Speaking of being sick. I found out last week on Threads that Taco Bell was probably the source of the parasite making everyone in Michigan and Ohio sick, due to contaminated lettuce. We had so many followers reaching out and sending me FYIs about it, which is actually so sweet when I think about it. “Hey, I know you love Taco Bell, heads up.” I joked about how it was funny that people were thinking of me when they were hearing about poop parasites, but it really did touch me. Like, people are thinking about me in their real life? I don’t think I will ever get over that. Even if it is about parasites.

• Parallelle bags 20% off - these are great skincare/makeup bags because you can store and organize in one bag, and just fold the sides down and keep it on the counter. I like the medium size because it comes with brush holders, which makes it great for makeup.

• My favorite gold necklace is 20% off. designed the best gold chain necklace. I wear mine all the time (it is 20”, so good for plus size, too). I love how shiny it is, but especially love the unique heart valve clasp - it looks good even when it is turned around.

  

• 25% off my travel essential packable bag in black with code HEATWAVE.

  I love this bag because it can be used as a personal item on a flight or zipped up into its own pouch to be used as an “oops we shopped too much on a trip” bag. I think it has been checked a total of five times and looks to be in better shape than my hard-shelled luggage.

• Aerie - extra 20% off with code REALMAKERS20. This is one of Rebecca’s favorite stores, so it is one of the few mall stores I regularly visit. I LOVE this nightgown as a nightgown, but it can also be used as a coverup or dress. It does run big, though. I bought the XXL as a 18/20 and need an XL. It is soft and cooling - truly comfortable to wear to bed. I love these super-thin, lightweight sweats (I size down). And I had to pick up this butter tote.

• Ulta - BOGO Free Minis - ends 7.25

  A great sale to stock up on travel sizes or try something new since you can mix and match brands. One of my favorite everyday perfumes is this Noyz Only Human (vanilla and clean cotton, almost?), which is included, and it's a great deal. If you have ever wanted to try out my favorite conditioner, it is also included.

• Innbeauty - Build your own bundle and get up to 25% off PLUS an extra 20% off when you stack with our 20MSMMBI code (one-time use only, if mine does not work, try GLOWING20). The beauty of this specific sale is you can get more than one of each item. So if you like Extreme Cream, you can get 2 full-sizes and 2 refills to get to four items. My top recs: The eye cream (my all-time favorite eye cream), Extreme Cream, Elastic Skin (Missy’s favorite - like a hydrating serum with growth factors), the mineral sunscreen (so moisturizing and glow - I use light), and the lip sunscreen (NO aftertaste)

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

And can’t forget (how could you - it is everywhere) the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. The sale is now live for everyone. This means that a lot of things have sold out, but if you had your eyes on something, we give our tips on how to keep an eye out for restocks in our Substack below:

I did not go too hard into beauty because there are great deals on a lot of these beauty brands year-round (like Necessaire only doing 20% off? You can see that 5 times a year!) I did find a few special callouts that have not yet sold out:

• I love this hand sanitizer. It is the only one that does not dry out my skin and leaves it feeling moisturized. I try to stock up during Sephora sales, but this price is the lowest I have seen.

• My favorite aerosol sunscreen. The mist is what makes it so good. It is a fine mist, so it never feels too cold when you are applying it to your back. It is also one of the few aerosol sunscreens that does not bother Rebecca’s eczema.

• I smelled this candle from a brand I had never heard of in-store, purchased it, and have been burning it nonstop. I love it. Do not let the mint scare you off. more like an herbaceous mint-and-basil. The perfect kitchen scent. I also like that it is a double-wick candle.

The best travel pouch and tote organizer is back in stock! They sell out almost every restock and just restocked last week, and include a new colorway. I have one and love the magnet and a few other colors that are no longer made. What makes this pouch so good is the interior pouches (I think there are 10) and all the room! So easy to move from tote to tote. I have also used it for my makeup and toiletries on a trip, which is a feat since I am high maintenance.

We are almost at the end of July, and I am talking about things that mainly happened in the beginning of June, but that’s us! We went on two trips (almost back-to-back) at the end of May/beginning of June - cashed in some Amex points for Esperanza in Cabo (loved it), then spent the week after in Gatlinburg, TN, with my extended family at Margaritaville. Which brings me to one of my first favorite things: Gatlinburg and Margaritaville.

1. Gatlinburg and Margaritaville - It was such a good family trip. Gatlinburg is like a tourist trap in the Smokey Mountains, but that also means there is so much to do to entertain a family. I actually want to do a full Margaritaville review because we loved it and the location was perfect. Good ol’ family fun, and I just felt whole when I got home because of it.

2. Games! It rained all day while we were there, and it might have been one of my favorite days because we all just played games together. Put together a list of good travel-sized games (like the mini-size Rummikub, which is great if you love Mahjong!), but we especially loved this one as a family because it was so easy to pick up.

   

Squishy hunting

Our entire 7-hour drive down and up, plus every stop in a toy store, we looked for squishies - especially NeeDohs. It ended up becoming something we all got excited about, and now I am weirdly into looking for squishies everywhere we go - even when Rebecca is not with us. I decided these squishies are my favorite type

4. Travel tissues with a lid!!! posted these and as an allergy sufferer who hates how hard it is to access travel pack tissues, I knew I needed. FINALLY.

   

5. Go anywhere chair umbrella {XL Version here}. This umbrella attaches to any chair (or even a fence) and is great for sporting events or taking your daughter to the pool. I love that I do not have to worry about getting a shaded spot - I just bring my own! It has several adjustment points, so you can adjust it throughout the day based on where the sun is. It is lightweight and easy to carry, too.

6. This Old Navy tank. I think I have like 8 white ones. It is the perfect tank top because it is fitted and cropped, but cropped at the top of your pants. It is perfect, and it is only $8. I love this new chartreuse they launched this year. Also, love this one, which is more of a square neck. Also, more fitted but goes great with everything - and it is a little smoothing!

   

7. This posture corrector. I purchased it because I noticed my headaches corresponded with heavy workdays when I was on my phone or at my desk for longer periods. Plus, I have terrible posture. This is the first posture corrector I have tried that actually is comfortable on - you will even forget you are wearing it. It helps the most with proper shoulder posture, but it has helped with my tension headaches so much. I wear mine on the outside of my shirt since I keep it at the office, but you can wear it under your shirt, too. True to size chart.

   

8. The New Savant Matcha Matinal candle - Gifted to use by the brand and I LOVED it. I do not usually like sweet candles, but this one is so well balanced - sweet, milky, matcha-y. Incredible throw and burn time, too. Although I have now burned through 2 already. It is that good. Currently 30% off at Blue Mercury (and free shipping when you sign in). I just purchased two more (I already bought three last month) before publishing.

   

9. This Versed Blonzer. I LOVE this for no-makeup looks, but want to add a little color. I am wearing shade Aura above - nothing else - no concealer or foundation, either. I just wanted to look a little cute for breakfast at the resort, but did not want to do a full makeup look and then go swimming. I think any colors will look good, but Aura is a terracotta-y shade and warmed up my skin the most. I also liked Canyon!

10 and 11 I bought this lip contour dual-sided liner during the Sephora sale and have been using it non-stop. One side is for contour (outer line and fill in corners ), and the other side is to help fill in right above the contour. It looks a little more pronounced in the photo above (which is why I picked it), but it makes lining your lips so easy and really does add volume. I bought fair, and it really does well with cool tones!

I also received this Mother lip balm in gifting and brought it with me on the trip - and WOW. I was like “okay, I don’t need another expensive lip balm,” but then I ended up forgetting a lip mask on our trip and was able to use this at night and as a lip tint/gloss. It is incredibly hydrating and moisturizing, and it plumps, but without tingling? And it is thin enough to also be a gloss? I loved all of the colors, but I think I used the pink one the most (above), and it smells like vanilla.

1. Pasta alla Nerano - One of my favorite recipes, and summer is the best time to eat it. Anders and I went to Capri in 2023, and I have to admit, during the day I was briefly wondering if I’d been lied to. It is packed with ferry day-trippers. Shoulder-to-shoulder. We stayed in a tiny family-owned hotel on the island (Hotel Mamela), so instead of fighting the crowds, we’d spend the afternoons at the pool or a beach club. Then the last ferry would leave, and the entire island transformed. Suddenly it was quiet. The streets were filled with Italians actually vacationing there; live music spilled out of little cafés; everyone was strolling with gelato; dinner lasted three hours; then the restaurant turned into an outdoor late-night bar with music and dancing. It was exactly the version of Capri I’d pictured in my head. is the one who told me how much she loved it, and she was spot-on.

   One of my favorite meals I ate in Italy (we also went to Rome and Tuscany) was Pasta alla Nerano. I had actually watched Stanley Tucci’s Searching for Italy on the flight over, where he talked about it, so naturally I spent the entire trip hunting it down. It was every bit as good as he promised.

   My version is definitely not the official Capri recipe. I use 1/2 pecorino and 1/2 provolone instead of the traditional Provolone Dal Monaco, add a splash of cream, and I’m sure someone in Italy would politely shake their head at me. But it’s one of those meals that’s deceptively simple, tastes like summer, and whenever I make it, I get to pretend I’m back in Capri instead of standing in my Ohio, where the air currently is making my asthma flare up.

2. Completely opposite of Capri, how about Crocs sandals? Haha. Discovered these Crocs sandals on our family trip to Margaritaville because my cousin had them and immediately purchased them in my size (this is one size down). They were out of stock in a ton of places in the brown tone, but I found them at DSW, and I haven’t looked back. They have arch support, are Crocs-comfy, don’t require a break-in period, and, honestly, look like my leather TKEES from a distance. They also have a toe ring style that looks very cute.

   

3. I truly love these shorts. I love the color, the fabric, the length, and the style. I’ve been wearing them all summer, constantly, and I don’t plan on stopping now. I am in the XL, but they go up to 4X. I also love the pants version (where the tank top is also linked).

   

4. In June and early July, I was lucky enough to get two sleepovers at hotels with some of my girlfriends, and I highly recommend it. After Buckeye Country Superfest - a show where I hate every portion of the name of the show but enjoyed every performer - Tyler Childers, Sierra Farrell, Red Clay Strays, Lord Huron, etc., we stayed at a hotel walkable from the venue and we laughed and got late-night Mexican food (not Taco Bell and also nothing that causes parasitic diarrhea, thankfully.) It was wonderful, it was very warm, and it was very healing for everyone. We all needed it. Feeling low? You may need a sleepover with your best girls.

5. Speaking of outdoor live shows, Sarah does really know her stuff when it comes to portable fans. We brought this fan with us, and we had no regrets. Also brought to an outdoor 4th of July event where the lowest temp was like 94; my friends were so thankful.

   

6. The MAC lip combo. I love Creme Cup, and it is one of my go-to pinky nude lip colors, but especially during the summer. I wore it constantly on a destination wedding trip in 2023, and as soon as June hit, I felt the need to wear it again. I ended up buying this combo at Nordstrom last week because I have been using darker lip liners to contour, and Sarah said she loved the liner after seeing Paige DeSorbo use it. The combo is A+.

7. Sarah stole my favorite thing - the posture corrector. I guess I probably stole it from her since she originally bought it. I also have bad posture (who doesn’t when you have a big chest?) and have been wanting to work on it before my wedding in October. She is not lying - it really does help with back, shoulder, and neck pain!

8. I love getting a Nefertiti lift because it’s been the perfect complement to the jaw Botox I get for my TMJ. Jaw Botox has helped my pain tremendously, but relaxing those muscles can sometimes contribute to a little bit of jowling. The Nefertiti lift has been the antidote to the negative effects of master/tmj wrinkle relaxers. It subtly lifts and defines my jawline without looking like I’ve had anything done. If your injector has a light hand, it’s one of those treatments where the results aren’t dramatic to anyone else, but you catch yourself in the mirror and think, oh yeah that’s niiiiice. A very subtle pick-me-up that, for me, makes a surprisingly big difference even if I do have to manage all the beauty math around timing them close together but not exactly the same time.

   

   9. I put this in one of our newsletters in June, but one of my very favorite things about having a more flexible schedule and less corporate work in my life is getting to spend more time with my family, more specifically my nieces, nephew, and cousins. It may be the luteal phase talking, but while driving to pick up my nephew yesterday, I was bawling. I was crying because I genuinely feel so happy that I get to pick up my nephew for the day on a Friday and hold my new baby niece for 15 minutes when I get there. (She is CUTE.) How is this my life? How am I so lucky?

If you made it through this far, you deserve to add this newsletter to your Goodreads as a book you completed. Thanks for reading!

XX Sarah and Missy

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is an influencer cliché at this point, but they are one of the few companies that truly strive for excellent customer service: a generous return policy, free shipping, plus a generally happy workforce. The sale also supports Nordstrom employees who rely on this event.

I (Missy) used to be a Nordstrom employee, and I have been working and shopping this sale for over 20 years now. So, if you’re near a Nordstrom store, consider stopping in to say hi… and maybe leave with a bag or two.

Sale Details

This year, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale starts on July 14th, 2026 and ends August 9th, 2026. The day you can access the sale to shop depends on whether you are a Nordstrom cardholder or a rewards member (Nordy Club), as well as your spending level at Nordstrom. This year, there are fewer days between when each level can shop, which I hope helps with inventory levels and gives more people a chance to snag coveted items.

• Tuesday, July 14th - The sale opens to Icons

• Wednesday, July 15th - The sale opens to Ambassadors

• Thursday, July 16th - The sale opens to Influencers (automatic level for all cardholders)

• Saturday, July 18th - The sale opens to everyone!

Items sell out fast, especially the popular ones. If something you love is out of stock, download the Nordstrom app and heart your faves so you get notified as soon as they’re back in stock (this happens frequently!) The app will also give you notifications as soon as you can shop within your reward category.

Also, remember that no sale is ever worth it if it doesn’t fit into your plan or budget - don’t go into debt to score a deal.

What We Added to our Favorites

We’re focusing on what we actually bought from the Nordstrom Sale, but we also went through the entire sale and pulled together our favorite finds by category.

If you’d rather skip the reading and browse, we’ve rounded up all of our curated picks here:

• Coats & Jackets

• Home and Luggage Picks

• Coats & Jackets (a personal favorite category)

• Jewelry, Handbag, and Accessory Picks from Anniversary Sale

• Shoe Picks for the Whole Family

• Women’s Work Picks (comfy shoes, what to wear to conferences)

• Women’s Clothing Picks

• An Edit for the Men in our Lives

What We Bought This Year

• Hydrocotton Towels – Sarah stocked up on her favorite towels again this year. I have been using these towels for 8+ years and I have had the same set for at least three. Sarah loves how soft these towels are, while still remaining fluffy and absorbent. We all hate when towels are too soft and heavy and these are perfect. Also available in a double pack (more colors available) and a four pack (most colors available). We both highly recommend recommend the Bath Sheet size.

  • This year they added stripes to the mix, which is what I grabbed for my guest bathrooms.

• Adidas Japan Sneakers - The featured women’s style this year is the Japan Low style and it is lightweight, comfortable for walking, and yet still makes every outfit look cool (I have them in bright pink.) They have over 500 reviews and nearly 5 stars for a reason.

  • We were pretty “meh” on this year’s color options until we saw them in person. I made Rebecca try on the boldest pair, and within minutes she was saying, “These would be sooo cute with shorts, a dress, or jeans” while strutting around. She gets it honestly.

  • I also fell for the rich maroon color- it’s so much better in person, trust me on this one.

• Brooklyn Candle Co Candle in Thai Basil - We had never heard of this candle brand before, but it was on the same table as the Flamingo Estate, so we smelled it and OMG. LOVE. This is the perfect kitchen candle. Herbaceous and a great cold throw. Sarah loves the Flamingo Estate Green Goddess candle that we received as a gift last year, and this reminds me of that.

  • This is also Flamingo Estate’s first year in the sale, and I bought the Green Goddess set. These would make excellent hosting gifts, and the throw is GOOD. I do not use the block of soap as soap; instead, I use it as an air freshener in our linen closet. They also have a tomato set with a candle and hand wash.

• The coolest travel jewelry organizer — Sarah and I travel a lot, and we’re constantly trying to avoid ending up with one giant knot of necklaces. This case has individual mesh pouches that organize like a tiny binder.

  Basically, it’s a Trapper Keeper for your jewelry. Sarah, who gets excited about school supplies, has found her sale favorite.

• Parachute Cotton Quilt - I have been looking to replace my bedding for a while. As much as you all love it (it is feature in a lot of our mattress photos,) it’s impossible to dry and sleeps a little too warm in the summer. I havd been eyeing the Quince version (but it is always out of stock,) and then I felt this one in person. This “quilt” is actually more like a light comforter.

  • I immediately came home, washed it (Nordstrom return policy,) and took a nap instead of finishing this Substack. Honestly, that’s the review. It’s the perfect light neutral tan, a great all-in-one, easier to wash and dry, 100% cotton, and 33%, or $100, off - the best Parachute discounts get outside of Black Friday.

  • The matching striped sheets and throw included in the sale this year are also CUTE.

• L’avant Ambre Santal Hand Soap - We had never smelled this brand before, and it was sitting on the same table as the other candles. Definitely Le Labo Santal 33 vibes, but a little different with the musk of the amber mixed in. We both ended up buying because having expensive hand soap that smells good (but not too strong) is one of my favorite ways to feel fancy.

• Moonlight Eco Pajamas – An every year repurchase. The short set (PLUS) was one of the first things Sarah ever purchased from the Nordstrom sale. And just in case you bought them in the bad years (2021-2023) they are back to being great. The sale is 100% the best time to buy them! Sarah prefers the short sets and the night shirt (PLUS.) They also come in long-sleeved shirt/pants and lace tank and cropped pants. I think they run a little big, but not big enough to size down. Plus sizes are listed separately. They have so many new cute colorways this year, but this polka dot shorts set (or nightshirt) is the one both Rebecca and I grabbed.

  • There are also ribbed Moonlight pajamas. And, maybe controversial, I think these might be my favorite. I bought the black last year - and OMG. SO SOFT. I think they could be used as a set that you wear outside the house. I have the shorts pair in both black and gray and grabbed the pants set this year. Short set | Short set plus | New soft jersey set | New soft jersey set plus

  • Not the Moonlight material we love, but this nightgown is really cute and Doen-esque and if we weren’t overstimulated by the DJ in-store, we would have snagged a photo.

• Stocking up on basics - I love grabbing basics during the sale and this year was no difference.

  • This Free People tee is one I have in white and black. It is the perfect length (hits right at the top of pants) and this gray one included in the sale is the perfect medium heather gray.

  • Sarah also grabbed this darker heather gray tee by Nordstrom for me to try on and I loved it. Immediate buy.

  • Free People Soft Pants - I tried on and purchased these perfectly cropped soft pants. This style comes in both cream and a really lightweight denim. I grabbed both because I recently did a closet edit on soft pants and have room for some more. A note, I do not wear these as low-rise and they still look very cute.

• Margaux shoes - I have been wearing their sandals for four years. While those are not on sale, my love of the sandals is what introduced Sarah to the brand. As someone with a size 12 shoe, it is HARD for her to find stylish, well-made shoes that fit her feet. Margaux has sizes 4 to 14 available in this sale - and they rarely have sales! She bought these cap-toe pointed shoes because they have been on her wishlist for at least two years. She does not know if she will keep them, but she also bought these kitten heel boots after buying a pair of their booties last year and loving how comfortable they were.

• Steve Madden Tall Boots - Yeah, you heard (read?) me right. These boots are GOOD. Truly, they are a mix of my favorite Staud Wally and the Marc Jacobs boots I wanted (but did not need) last year. They have a wide calf circumference, which I love. I grabbed the black leather because I will get the most use out of them, but people are really digging the more fabric-y zebra print and brown suede too. I was originally planning on ordering the Margaux tall boots (because I love Margaux too) but I honestly fell in love with these. The fact that they don’t have a photo of them on a model on the website is a big miss.

• Beis Checked Luggage - I’ve had my Béis checked luggage since late 2022 and it’s still in great shape. But since Anders needs a checked bag for our wedding and honeymoon, it only makes sense that he gets my old black one and I get the new cobalt blue color I’m obsessed with. Beis luggage still has some of my favorite features: a padded trolley handle, great wheels that roll easily even overweight and over carpet, and a built-in luggage scale that flashes red if your bag is overweight. This is about the lowest price you’ll see all year. Also available in carry-on size.

  • I am considering buying the matching Beis Travel Duffel after hearing they finally made one that fits comfortably under the seat.

  • Also worth noting: the Away luggage in the sale this year is good. Plus, it is the brand our audience recommends more than any other, and Sarah’s entire family uses it. She loves the compressive compartment, easy rolling wheels, and built-in laundry bag.

    They have a great customer service policy and so does Nordstrom – so a win/win. They have a carry-on (euro-friendly,) the bigger carry-on (a lot of you recommended this one,) and both 26-inch and 29-inch checked bag options. I know these will sell out – the colors are very cute.

• I ordered this waterproof bright, perfect blue rainjacket I always buy a coat or jacket from the sale and I could not pass this one up. The color is perfection. I was not familiar with this brand but they make some CUTE jackets that are included in the sale. I don’t think I will ever lose this one and it adds a little fun to my very neutral rainjacket collection.

  • I have this great budget-friendly option that looks significantly more expensive than it is.

• The diamond-level sparkly studs – but they are under $30. I repurchased the 4-ct (my favorite size) this year. Also, a cute and dainty solitaire necklace is available this year and under $25.

• This Monica Vinader Aquamarine ring is so cute and surprisingly comfortable. I love the stone, I love how it sits on the finger, and I love that it just adds something fun. It does run a little big. I normally am a size 7 and grabbed the 6.5.

• These Cult Gaia-esque turquoise earrings that are under $30. I can’t wait to wear them with a white tee and jeans.

• Jeans and Tees for Anders. Also, a new pair of Boat Shoes because, while they are “back” Anders never stopped wearing his.

I think that’s everything we’ve purchased... so far. We’ll keep checking back throughout the sale since items often come back in stock due to returns and inventory shifts. If we find anything else that’s genuinely worth your money, we’ll let you know.

Did we miss anything? What do you usually stock up on every year?

Anthropologie 20% off

Last Anthropologie code until Black Friday starts today — 20% off $100 or more w/ SISTER20. This shrunken linen shirt1 is my (Sarah’s) top recommendation. I love the color, I wear it constantly, and so much softer than other linen I have tried. That is why I am going to buy this other linen button-up - I never believed Missy when she said linen is the best for the summertime. They also brought back the sheer button-up2 I always get SO many questions about anytime I wear it, just under a different name. Any time I am going somewhere and don’t know what to wear, I just wear it unbuttoned with a skirt or jeans!

Ulta Prime Sale - 20% off everything

Even prestige brands with code: PRIMETIME3. I have been so heads down on Amazon, I did not know Ulta was also running a sale until followers messaged me. A lot of their prices end up being better than Amazon's because the code works on already-discounted items. Top three favorites that are better than Amazon’s deals:

• Chanel beauty - I do not know if it is a glitch, but the code is working on the brand. Shoutout @beautydeallsbff for the heads up. An aside - the only thing I regularly use from Chanel is this liquid eyeshadow, but it is not even at Ulta. However, it is worth the full price. I use 26.

• Theraface depuffing wand - The lowest I have seen it go was $119 on Black Friday and the first day of Prime Day. $129 →$104

• BioIonic long barrel curling iron- ends up being 44% off! Between Missy and me, we own all four sizes. I use the 1” the most for my fine hair, but if I want curlier hair, I use the 0.75.” Missy loves the 1.25” and the 1.5” for big blowout, bouncy curls.

• Pureology Strengthcure conditioner jumbo size - The conditioner is THE BEST conditioner you will ever use. It detangles your hair and makes it feel like silk. That is why it is always one of my top Amazon Prime recs. It still is this year, but the jumbo size is a better deal at Ulta. Personally, I do not like jumbo-size shampoos and conditioners in my shower, so I stick with the regular size, which is 30% off on Amazon.

Target Circle Days

Our favorite affordable sheets are 40% off! The printed version is better than the solid version; I do not understand why. Originally purchased a set in 2010 and still have them. They only get softer with each wash and do not get too hot as the microfiber ones do.

A few things I have sent to the group chat (homecoming broadcast channel) or plan to send that have not made it to stories yet if you want a head start.

1. Nordstrom has some great CZ earrings. I bought another similar pair to these in January, but they sold out. Now they are back and in a different format, and I like them even better! They are so sparkly and comfortable to wear.

2. This Quince quilt is back in stock in most of the colors. It is not the softest, but it is pretty! Gets softer with each wash.

3. Madewell Bandana tote and pouches are so cute. I am not letting myself buy any other bandana-related bags, but I love how they are not quilted…

4. My favorite wallet of all time came out with a new limited edition version, and they are SO cute. Several different colorways, but what I love most about this wallet, besides being well-made, is that it is not too thick yet still has room for cards, bills, and change, all while being the size of a card holder.

The Prime Day 25

These are not in any particular order.

• The Brick. We have written about it several times, but this is a great way to set healthy phone boundaries. You can set a schedule or turn on your screen time (you program the different apps to restrict), and then the only way to unbrick it is to scan the magnet. It has helped both Missy and I kick our TikTok and shopping in bed habits.

• Every time I do the dishes, I think about how much I appreciate this little dishwasher pod-and-sponge storage solution. We have like no cabinet space, so it is nice to be able to store these up and off the cabinet floor.

• I have never seen my side-sleeper pillow at this low a price! I cannot sleep without it. I had to buy a travel one a few years ago because it needs to come with me everywhere; otherwise, I get a tension headache.

  

• This oversized waterproof pool/beach tote is a favorite. I have had mine for 2 summers - it holds up well, holds a lot, and has a few draining holes at the bottom so it can get wet. Such a good price for what you get.

• Fans! I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE my travel stand-up, oscillating fan. It packs down into a zippered case and has an extendable pole, so it actually provides airflow off the ground. The battery life lasts a while, AND it can double as a charger. If you are someone who needs to sleep with a fan or sleeps hot, I cannot recommend it enough, and it is rarely on sale.

  • I bring this with me to the pool, along with a clip-on umbrella (also on sale) that attaches to the back of any chair. See it in action here.

• I also love this mini-fan. It can fold over and be worn around the neck, it cools your face, or you can set it on a table. I have several different types from this brand, and they are all great, with long-lasting battery life.

• Speaking of fans, this cooling comforter is the best. I have been using it for a few years because we have a second-story bedroom, and I was SO hot at night. I bought the comforter and the sheets, and I almost got too cold!! It works so well. I just got a twin-size for myself and then made the bed with it under the duvet. I also like the sheets - they are soft and almost like golf shirt material, but they can be a little slippery.

• You know I am an ergonomic baddie. I have had a Branch ergonomic office chair since 2020, when I worked for corporate. Then I bought a cheaper “dupe” on Amazon, and I was always coming home with back pain. So I bought another one for the office, and it went away. It really does make a difference what you sit on when you sit for a good portion of your job. It’s the best.

  • I have been recommending these Cushion Lab cushions since the start of my account. I love the seat cushion for my college injury4, but I also have a lumbar support that I use on all of the furniture in my house.

• Speaking of ergonomics, I love my ergonomic mouse. It has helped my hand pain, but it is also much more natural and easier to use.

• These fire extinguishers. They are easy-to-use spray bottles that can extinguish several types of fire. Now that Rebecca occasionally stays home by herself, I feel even better about having these around. But mainly, I got them for myself because they are easy to store and open. Whenever I am having a bad day, I read the DMs from followers about how these extinguishers helped prevent a bigger house fire.

  

• I love sheets and duvets. I have so many of them. I bought these organizers a few years ago and LOVE how easy they make it to store sheets, pillow cases, duvets, etc. You can fit a lot into one of the boxes, too!

• I have been on a GLP for three years now, and now that I am 41, I am noticing how much my body has changed. I recently read Weightless, by one of my favorite board-certified obesity doctors who has been a GLP advocate for years. It was so informative and made me motivated to work on building muscle via weight training again. I bought this scale because both James and I are working with trainers, and it makes tracking our muscle mass throughout our entire bodies so much easier!

• To build muscle mass, I am back to watching my protein (and fiber!), and these protein shots are great if you do not have an appetite but need more protein. They do not taste the best, but I just down them like a shot and get 15 grams of protein in!

• This toothbrush. I have discussed it ad nauseam in this newsletter since I bought it last summer. And won’t stop because it has made my teeth whiter, gums less sensitive, and teeth cleaner. My dental hygienist actually asked me what I was doing differently a few years ago because she noticed a difference!

• Pureology Strengthcure conditioner. It is not often 30% off. If you also prefer smaller bottles in the shower or want to try them out, it's best to use the Amazon discount first.

• I love this IPL at-home hair removal device. A few years ago, I asked my followers one thing they did that improved their lives, and laser hair removal was the most common answer. While this is not laser therapy but intense pulsed light therapy, I still had SO many followers sing its praises. I ended up purchasing one last summer, and I mainly used it on my underarms. I only had to use it for three weeks before noticing a difference! Use once a week for twelve weeks, then touch up every month. It takes me one minute and does not hurt. The last thing I want is another appointment to have to schedule, so I love being able to do hair removal at home!

• My favorite spray sunscreen. I never thought I would regularly pay more than $10 for sunscreen, but I have been doing that for the past three years because the Supergoop Play is SO refreshing. Light mist that never feels too cold. Does not bother Rebecca’s eczema. And their new scents, like the vanilla orchid, are GOOD. We tested it out last week with these UV indicator stickers, which were actually more helpful than I thought they would be to remind Re

  1. My cousin brought this sunscreen on vacation that smells like cologne, and James loves it! Also on sale.

  

• The best overnight lip mask. Sticky, stays on your lips all night. I am never without it. I do not like it for the daytime, though - too sticky. This is one of my favorite daytime balms that exfoliates and moisturizes - also on sale!

• Lightly exfoliating hand cream. I started to use this in March, and it has been so hard to find in stock to replace! The gentle exfoliation makes my hands so soft and has helped with some of my sun damage.

• BK Beauty concealer brush is one of my favorites. Fluffy enough to blend, perfectly shaped to fit under your eye.

• I have been using this Shiseido stick FOR YEARS. I have never seen it 40% off. It does have a fragrance, but it is great for reapplying over makeup. Sunscreen sticks aren't as effective as reapplying with lotion, but sometimes I don't want to mess up my makeup and don’t have a sponge for reapplication. I love that this one is 60 SPF, so I know I am probably getting more coverage than other sticks on my face.

Shopbop also has many items 25% off for Prime Day.

We have been BUSY on the feed this week. Missy joked that we need to sage the feed because there are so many sales roundups there. However, it makes it so easy to reference things, so we had to try it out! You can shop our feed here, and check out anything you may have missed here.

Thank you for your support during all of these big sales weeks! It means so much to us to hear from you - whether its via DM, likes, comments, etc. It makes the long days feel extra worth it!

XX Sarah & Missy

One thing about us: if Shopbop is having a sale, we’re probably not using it to buy the most exciting thing on the site.

More often than not, we’re replacing lost sunglasses, replacing a favorite white tee, buying the jeans we already know we’ll wear to death, or adding yet another reusable grocery bag to our collection.

As much as I love a fun dress, what I actually wear all summer is pretty predictable: jeans or soft pants, a white tee or tank, fun earrings, and either a bag or a pair of shoes to add a bit of cool to an otherwise simple outfit.

Every now and then, a statement dress is something we both end up finding and wearing on the one night a year Sarah goes out or on a trip to Cabo, or something.

This sale edit is a mix of both. Our tried-and-true favorites, the practical things we repurchase over and over, and a handful of fun finds that make getting dressed fun.

Use code PRIME25 to save 25% on everything below.

Shopbop Forever Favorites

$75 and under and 25% off

• Missy loves her Ossa phone chains and the cases and chains are 25% off. While the Ossa site now has Magsafe options, shopbop does not yet - so maybe grab the chains on shopbop and the case on Ossa.

• The Sunnylife bag is the best pool bag because it can fit all of your other bags. Keep your sunscreen separate, your towels clean, and your other necessities available - and they all fit in this bag. If for some reason the code isn’t working (this one has been iffy,) it is

  for the same price.

• The Calpak cosmetic case is cotinually one of our annual best sellers. This case has been through so much with us. Sarah and I both use it for packing our liquids, the mini size has never given us any issues at TSA.

• These Aire Sunglasses are a pair Sarah rebuys (when she inevitably loses them) because they look good on everyone and with everything.

• Sarah loves how small the Baggu market bags fold up and how much they can hold. She uses them at the farmer’s market but also packs them for NYC trips when we go shopping, much more comfortable to carry on your shoulders than a shopping bag.

• The perfect pink lightly plumping lip gloss — 25% off is about as good as it gets. This is lightly plumping but not at all painful. Sarah loves Velvet Daisy; I love Daisy Girl over a nude lip liner (pictured below.)

• Sarah has worn approximately two things all summer: her Old Navy t-shirt dress and this long sleeve tee. It runs very oversized (I'd say 1–2 sizes large), is incredibly soft, and somehow manages to be lightweight and breathable even in summer. It comes in navy, blue, gray, and green, plus a short-sleeve version and a jacket. There are matching shorts too, but we'd recommend sizing up in those.

• Missy owns roughly 55 white tees and tanks, so this is a highly competitive category. Besides the Amazon favorite (which is also on sale), she loves this Reformation tee for a cropped-but-not-actually-cropped length. If you're after a more oversized (but just barely) white tee, this Courtney Grow recommendation is a great one to grab while it's discounted.

• This cleanser came to Missy in gifting and she fell in love with it. There is something so soothing about it while it really does a good job of cleaning the skin. Less remaining dirt and makeup wipes off with this cleanser vs. others. For the record, her favorite cleansing order (as someone with acne-prone skin) is Tatcha Cleansing Oil (on sale on Amazon) followed by this Dr. Loretta cleanser.

$150 and under and 25% off

• The good colors of Birkenstock sandals are rarely on sale, but this sale includes the popular Big Buckle Arizona in tan and black. I (Missy) also have the Gold Arizona sandals and they are a soft footbed - no break in period and no squeaky sounds! I am actually going to rebuy a pair since I left mine in Mexico.

• The Jenny Bird Mini Florence and Florence earrings are included and are the perfect everyday earring. Sarah and I both have them in two-tone. They also come in gold.

• I (Missy) wore this midi skirt in Cabo and got all the compliments but I have recently been wearing it more with sneakers and a tee. It is very breathable, soft, and easy to throw on. Plus it has pockets. Comes in a lot of different colorways and patterns like this brown polka dot one. I am in size large.

Let’s call it an investment (but 25% off)

Sarah wore the Janessa Leone Tinsley hat in Cabo and I think everyone in our group wanted it. Missy recently fell in love with this style from Abby Arad, but Sarah’s head is XXL and this Janessa Leone fits just perfect. It is an investment, so grab one of the hats while it is on sale, if you are interested. There are many great, well-made styles included in the sale.

The White Tee + Jeans + Something Silly Formula

But this time it is all on sale

If there is one thing I love, outside of a pair of jeans and a white tee, it is a fun pair of earrings or shoes. It is one of the easiest outfit formulas of all.

Either way, the formula is still the same. A pop of color in the earring, a fun shoe (add a flip-flop heel to dress it up,) and a contrasting or coordinating color bag. Voila. An approachable take on the New York cool girl that you could wear anywhere from a concert, to a date night, to a county fair.

My favorite style of jeans are usually a wider leg with a more tight-fitted butt. My favorite white tee is one that just hits the top of my pants like this one (see above.) These Madewell jeans are perfect and are under $60. For a great deal on high-end brands the Sasha is my favorite Paige style - half off here and Citizens of Humanity jeans are included in the sale and are the perfect width. If you are more apple-shaped - try a looser tee with a french tuck with a straight leg or boyfriend style jean - like this pair on sale for nearly half-off.

Shopbop has the best curation of statement earrings. I sorted through all the sale picks to find the ones I love and would buy (or already own, like the rectangle Edikted turquoise pair.) I am 100% grabbing the chandelier turquoise pair (under $50!) and the fuchsia pair.

This green Damson Madder bag is under $50 and so easy to throw on. I love the unexpected square toe of these blue peep-toe kitten heels, which are also in my cart.

The Fun Dress Formula

And they’re on sale

I fully believe in buying a fun dress for a fun occasion. If you feel good in what you’re wearing, you’ll have more fun. That’s science.

I also love having clothes tied to memories. A dress that reminds me of a vacation, a wedding, a concert, a whatever. Every time I pull it out of the closet, I get a little reminder of that moment.

And, of course, there are the photos. It sounds silly and vain, but going through our family’s photos, wow, I wish we had more where I know my mom felt good and was happy.

Wow, I really can’t even get through a fashion post without bringing up my dead parents. Well, here are some fun dresses, at least!

50% off right now and only a few left

Today’s edition is going out on Father’s Day. A day that never makes me as sad as Mother’s Day does. Maybe because my dad never cared that much about it - it was just another Sunday Dinner for us. I know these holidays can be hard, so I wanted to acknowledge that pain if you are feeling it. We are not talking about anything Father’s Day related in this newsletter (although my dad did LOVE Amazon Prime Day). Thinking of all of my internet friends who have a complicated relationship with this day for various reasons.

Sarah, here.

My first full week as Rebecca’s personal camp director/personal chauffeur under my belt. It was a beautiful week in Columbus - low 70s, sunny, blue skies. I don’t think we have had consistently beautiful weather in June in years. With the excitement of being home from our trips and the first “real week” of summer, I overcommitted.

I can always hear the eye rolls when I talk about how much work this job takes. I get it. You only see what you see, and it does not look that challenging. It is not, for the most part - just takes a lot of time. Building an audience that trusts you? That is the hardest part. And that means you are spending hours analyzing data to understand patterns and improve future performance, battling self-doubt, networking!! (this is so so important in this job), and trying to juggle all of the mini tasks that add up into one impossible-to-focus-on mountain of to-dos.

While I can do any part of this job from anywhere (catch me working from the pool in the summertime with my mobile office), I still NEED routine. And I need to not be driving so much. It is so difficult to get anything done when all I can think about is where I have to be next.

All that said, I have a love/hate relationship with summer. I LOVE it. But I kind of hate it, too? I have so many ideas and things I want to get done floating around in my head, but I cannot sit down to finish anything because the slog of running around always takes longer than I realize. Then I start to feel like a bad mom and bad at my job. But I can’t complain because I still have it easier than almost every other parent. It becomes this endless cycle of imposter syndrome to bad mom to “I am going to fail1 and have to go back to corporate.” Like an ant under a magnifying glass on a summer day, I feel like I'm quickly burning out.

We spent a lot of last week prepping for Amazon Prime Day (Tuesday, June 23rd through Thursday, June 26th) - two weeks earlier than it usually is. Which means more tension and stress between me and my family, me and myself, and me and Missy2. It is hard to explain the mental stress of a sales day. We have little control over how many story views we see, which can make me spiral. But last year we had the highest views we had ever had, and that made me spiral. Getting overwhelmed by what to cover, with so much noise about what is on sale, made me spiral. Thinking that if I don’t do as well as I did the year prior, then I would be a failure - and - you guessed it - that made me spiral.

I am actually the happiest I have ever been in this job because I have not been paying attention to views, have been taking fewer ShopMy opportunities, and am feeling free to be myself. I am worried that during the upcoming sales week, all of that progress will be lost. Time will tell! I know it all looks so easy, but the mental gymnastics of this job, in the absence of clear-cut expectations and controllable metrics, has always been the most challenging part.

Subscribe now

Which leads me to - the sales are GOOD. Maybe it is always this way, but it seems like stores are already starting to mark down summer to make room for fall (ugh…).

• Mother Science - 25% off sitewide w/code SUMMER25 - a rare discount!

  • I have been using the Hero Discoloration serum for almost 3 years, which is why I will post a before and after - I know it works! I love the Hero Pigmentation Serum, which is an antioxidant serum that is 10x more effective at brightening discoloration than regular Vitamin C, yet gentle enough to use continuously without breaks. I use it once a day now, but when my melasma and sun spots were really bad, I was using it twice a day!

• Old Navy - 50% off everything, including sale prices, which is a great sale

  

  • I love their basics, especially their tees and athletic shorts. High Priority: This tee-shirt dress I have been obsessed with. Already a great price at $10, but now it is $5. I originally purchased it to wear as a sleep tee, but I wear it for everything. Size up, if you can, because it can shrink. I have also been living in this striped ringer tee this summer, and I can always be found in these shorts. Don’t sleep on their tanks, either. It says they are cropped, but they are just cropped enough to reach the waistband of your shorts, and the white is not too see-through.

• J.Crew - up to 50% off some dresses, plus 15% off entire order - even new arrivals

  • A true rare sale for J.Crew, as new arrivals usually take a month or so to be discounted. I have been posting this dress (photo included) ad nauseam all week because I felt so pretty in it. Looks like a Doen dress from last year, and it is great for apple shapes - size up.

  • Other things that caught my eye: This bag (both the red and brown), these sandals (in the white, too), and this dress (I love paracord - check out the back!)

• Amazon Prime Day starts on Tuesday for a lot of the deals, but some have already started! Prepared to see a lot of clickbait stories on Monday night because everyone is trying to capture your cookies! You can read more about cookies and cookie strategy here. If you want to support us before purchasing anything, you can click on any of our Amazon links, and we will get credit (and appreciate you!)

  • One of the biggest complaints I have seen about Prime Day is that the things really are not that discounted or a good deal. Which is fair. We never cover things unless they are a good deal and we love them. But this year, the app makes it easier than ever not only to see price history but also to set a price alert.

• You can check out this collection to see all of the Prime Day deals from last year to get an idea of what could be on sale. Or you can read our Substack from last year, which details our favorite deals.

• Some early Prime Day deals that have already started:

  • I love this IPL at-home hair removal device. A few years ago, I asked my followers one thing they did that improved their lives, and laser hair removal was the most common answer. While this is not laser, but intense pulse light therapy, I still had SO many followers sing its praises. I ended up purchasing one last summer, and I mainly used it on my underarms. I only had to use it for three weeks before noticing a difference! Use once a week for twelve weeks, then touch up every month. It takes me one minute and does not hurt. The last thing I want is another appointment to have to schedule, so I love being able to do hair removal at home!

    • Missy here, I just started using this. I have to be honest, a lot of my physical appearance is enhanced. Hair, fake. Filler, sure. Botox (well, Dysport) Duh. But a few things I have never done - laser hair removal, surgical enhancement, and composite dentistry. I want to do all of those things, don’t get me wrong. I just have a wedding to pay for.

      Now I have significantly less hair on my legs that I feel like I do on my chin (shoutout PMOS) but even in the two weeks I have been testing on my legs and upper thighs - it is working! Sarah says three weeks, but I just think she is not monitoring it as closely as someone who gets a spray tan a week. It works, trust me.

  • If you have pets, this is the best carpet stain remover. You will see SO many people post about the little green machine, but I promise you - this is the best one. I love that it has a “mess” attachment so that the wastewater never touches the tubes and goes straight to another compartment.

    • Missy: If you are foolish like me (Missy, back again) and you purchased cream or white upholstered furniture, this will be a game changer. It has made such a difference. I posted about it here. Look at the before and after.

    • I bought this fan last year, and while I like the fan, the mister SUCKS. It will soak you. I also don’t think the Chill Pill is worth it, either.

  • Amazon Fire TV Stick is a good deal at $17, although it is usually under $20. However, it is perfect timing to buy a spare one because we use ours SO much when we travel. We always bring it with us, and it especially comes in handy at the cheaper hotels we would stay in for travel volleyball.

I have been talking a lot already, but some quick favorites from the week:

• 

  Loving the toasted country club from Jimmy Johns. I add lettuce, tomato, onion, peppers, and light mayo, plus a side of kickin’ ranch. Plus, add some jalapeno chips on it for some crunch.

  

I have this hat in multiple colors. It is meant to be a hat for hiking and fishing, but I love it for the pool because it is breathable, lightweight and can get wet. It is also great for gardening. It has amazing coverage and makes my mobile office more tolerable.

Famesick. I was always apathetic about Lena Dunham - excited to see someone with my body type in the spotlight, but also annoyed by her Twitter presence. I had not planned to read her book, but Sarah texted our group chat to say we should listen to it. It has taken me a while to get through it since I only listen in the car, but it has been an interesting listen. Lena is a great writer and storyteller. There is a lot of medical trauma in it, but I liked it because my mom had endometriosis. It was so severe that she was scheduled for a hysterectomy when she found out she was pregnant with me. I always wish I had gotten to talk to her more about it, and in a way, I feel like I get to know a little bit more about my mom through her story with endometriosis. Plus, the memoir is juicy and a little salacious, yet stuffed with people-pleasing relatability. I enjoyed it!

Speaking of surprises, these Built Sour Puffs are actually really good. My favorite flavor is green apple (tastes like a green apple Now and Later). They have a soft, marshmallow-like center with a coating of sour crystals on the outside. You get sweet, sour, and a fun texture in one bite with little aftertaste. Follower DMs said that the peach and watermelon were also good and to refrigerate them for an even better candy-like texture.

Second summer of getting a Zoombeezi Bay (our local waterpark) membership for me, Rebecca, and a friend. Brought Missy with me on Tuesday, and it reminded me of our childhood. Rebecca takes her phone with her (these cases are REALLY good - we used them in Gatlinburg to take underwater photos and videos), and checks in with me every hour. I usually set up my mobile pool office (post coming soon on everything I use) and work or read while wearing noise-canceling headphones to listen to this ocean playlist. If it is really hot, I will be floating in the adult lazy river, reading my Kindle or Kindle app with the waterproof phone pouch.

I numbered mine because I need to have structure to thrive.

1. One of my very favorite things about having a more flexible schedule and less corporate work in my life is getting to spend more time with my family, more specifically my nieces, nephew, and cousins.

   It may be the luteal phase talking, but while driving to pick up my nephew yesterday, I was bawling. (And not just because every major road is under construction and the detour was basically like, “F@*& YOU!”)

   I was crying because I genuinely feel so happy that I get to pick up my nephew for the day on a Friday and hold my new baby niece for 15 minutes when I get there. (She is CUTE.) How is this my life? How am I so lucky?

   I mentioned this on stories too, but I bribed Rebecca with free beauty products and a golf cart driving lesson (thanks, Anders) to help me with Jon at the pool. Jon is obsessed with Rebecca, and I am obsessed with both of them swimming together.

   I love the person Rebecca is becoming, and I love that I get to be part of their childhoods. I don’t take that for granted.

   

2. On a more capitalistic note, I wish I didn’t love these pants as much as I do. The color, the fit, the side ties: they’re just really good. There’s a reason they’ve been one of our best sellers this month.

   Based on feedback from all of you, I’ve been trying to find more budget-friendly options in more inclusive sizes. And look, I know a lot of people have beef with Target. So do I, genuinely I had been slowing down shopping. But the reality is that affordable, size-inclusive clothing can be genuinely hard to find.

   The same goes for thrifting. I love thrifting. I also spent many years thrifting as a plus-size person, which means I am very familiar with how often you leave empty-handed.

   All of this to say: for me, it’s about balance. Finding products you genuinely love while also making room to support the smaller brands and companies you want to see succeed.

   

3. Speaking of companies I love, I cannot state enough that one of my favorite small businesses is Experiment. First of all, I love their products. This serum was one I actually, accidentally, discovered before Sarah did. This serum saves my skin in the dry winter and it soothes my skin in the sunscreen-heavy summer. Use it on damp skin before moisturizer. I also love this lip treatment because it is not at all sticky but is still so comfortable and so soothing, I keep one in my beauty pouch in my handbag and one in my nightstand.

   I almost forgot my second of all, and it is also really important - they are such an amazing and supportive small business. When we were gathering both product and donations for our Karaoke Night that benefitted CHiPS in Park Slope, Brooklyn, they were one of the first companies to respond and participate. They are good people who make great products.

   

4. I love live music. I love spending time with my friends. So a girls’ night plus a sleepover after an all-day concert with two of my closest friends? Sign me up.

   We went to a concert that I still hate saying the name of because every part of it feels so not me: Buckeye Country Superfest. There, I said it. Cringe. Just kidding. Kind of.

   But truly, the lineup was amazing - so good that even our brother and sister-in-law had to go.

   One of my favorite female artists, Sierra Ferrell, was one of the early acts, followed by Lord Huron, Red Clay Strays, and Tyler Childers. We got there a little later because it was hot, so we missed some of the other openers, including Kaitlin Butts and Flatland Cavalry.

   It was truly country and folk music for the people. We were moved, we cried (literally), and we got to enjoy some of the best June weather I can remember in a very long time.

   Then we grabbed late-night Mexican food near the OSU campus and had a little sleepover at a nearby hotel. What a night.

   

5. Sarah shared these Adidas Toyko shoes and I ordered them. And I really like them, as much as I hate to admit it. I got both the red and the pink. Am I a sneakers girl now? Very light, very comfortable. If you need a lot of arch support or are looking for more tread, try the Japan style, which has a little of both.

Have yourself a ‘green RV summer’

Missy, here. We just got back from a five-night stay in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, with my uncle’s (dad’s brother) family. The trip brought up so many memories for me - and I never visited the city with my family (they went without me because I had to work the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale).

But spending so much time with my family reminded me of one of my favorite summer memories - the Summer of Hope. I truly choke up thinking about it, and the deeper I dive into why, the more I understand why it meant so much.

Maybe the last summer I remember my dad being fully mobile, fully able to live his life. Before my mom, Sarah, and I, or my brother, had to take on more of the physical tasks (she always had a big percentage of the mental ones). A summer before every plan came with an asterisk. Maybe it was my age or rose-colored glasses, but, nah, I think it was the green RV.

One day, my dad came home with an RV after talking about buying one and touring all the brand-new ones on the lot. I knew our lives were about to get infinitely better.

I felt like we were RICH. We were not.

The RV was green. Not cute vintage green. Not retro camp green. Government-building green. A yellowed, faded green that looked old even then. I still don’t think I’ve seen that exact shade come back into style. Get the idea of a cute vintage Winnebago out of your head - it was not that.

It was probably from the late ‘70s or early ‘80s and came with all the amenities of a 70’s RV: mysterious smells, brown-toned beds seemingly designed by someone who weighed about 100 lbs, and suspension that converted every curve and bump into giggles.

But none of that mattered.

To me, that RV meant adventure. It meant weekends at campgrounds, card games at picnic tables under the faded RV awning, the smell of grilled hamburgers by the river (and mildew), my brother trying to dive into said river at every chance, us sharing over-chlorinated pools with mostly geriatric full-time campers, and my dad driving like 15 mph, tops. Well, and my mom stress-packing for our trip.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to appreciate both parts of our RV summer: my dad’s impulsivity and my mom’s planning. One dreamed it up. The other made sure we actually had hamburger buns. That we brought our bathing suits and a deck of cards.

I wish I could tell them that.

But mostly that ugly green RV meant possibility. It taught me that making memories doesn’t always require a Euro trip or a beach vacation (though I also love those.) Sometimes it just means doing something a little different with people you love.

I don’t remember everywhere we went that summer. Honestly, I know a lot of it was Granville, about twenty minutes from our house, The Lazy R Campground. Oh, and King’s Island, and I remember exactly what the Hanna Barbara campground looked like, still to this day. I could paint it from memory.

I don’t remember every swim in every pool or every meal.

What I remember is the feeling.

The feeling that things were really good.

The feeling of being really lucky.

The feeling that my family was everything.

The Summer of Hope rode on six ugly wheels and got about eight miles to the gallon.

If you are overwhelmed trying to create the perfect summer for your family or yourself - I do this every year - just don’t. Have yourself a green RV summer. Mix impulsivity with the simple things in life and voila!

A Mattress Giveaway !!!!

We are giving away a Helix Mattress! We love our Helix mattresses so much (read our review here), and had enough people buy them during the Memorial Day sale that someone from Helix reached out to thank us for the sales we drove. Since I am 41 and don't seem to be as afraid of hearing “no,” I asked, “Could we give one away?”

They said, yes! Someone will win their choice of mattress this week! There are three ways to enter, and you can do all three to increase your chance of winning:

1. Enter via this Instagram post.

2. Enter by commenting, liking, and commenting on this Sunday Dinner you are reading via Substack - must be a subscriber! We will stop collecting names on Monday, June 15 th at 12 pm EST.

3. Join our broadcast channel! We will be doing a “secret” word-type giveaway tomorrow, where the only way to get the extra entry is to be a part of our channel.

That’s it! We were gifted our mattress and want to return the favor by giving one to one of our followers, in hopes they love it as much as we do.

Back-in-stock!

A few favorites are back in stock after back-to-back sellouts:

“Paris filter in a bottle” setting spray from Danessa Myricks. and posted about this setting spray in December. I bought it after seeing how softly blurred their makeup looked. I guess Danessa spent two years trying to perfect the blurring technology - and to that I say - time well spent! Even if you are not wearing makeup, it will blur your skin. While it does not mattify as much as an oil-control setting spray would, it still blurs and plumps while leaving skin hydrated. I will opt to wear this instead of setting powder if my skin feels too dry and my skin still looks blurred.

This MZ Wallace Zoey Cosmetics bag sells out every time it is restocked. One of the best things I purchased last year (no longer made in this color) because it ended up being the best bag organizer - especially for totes. It is a bigger bag with 8 interior pockets on the side. You can see a longer form of “What’s in My Bag” here, but she goes with me everywhere, especially when traveling. Here is the list of everything that I keep in the bag from the video. I think I probably use the mini sewing kit, scissors, and the portable lens cleaner the most.

FASHION

• Athleta - 50% off + extra 10% off w/code “MEGHAN10”

  A lot of summer staples are 40% off (this dress I love is already sold out in most colors), but the really good deals are the items at 50% off, since they stack with the extra 10% off. The work appropriate, but still perfect for errands and traveling pants with a yoga waistband are half off. Great if you are fluctuating between sizes or pregnant, because you can wear them through different sizes. Also, I always come back to these leggings as my favorite. Nothing is as supportive, while still being comfortable and soft.

BEAUTY

• Blue Mercury - 20% off $200+, 25% off $500+, or 30% off $1,ooo+.

  Blue Mercury has a LOT of luxury brands, so it is the best time to stock up - or split up your order with some friends to get the maximum discount. My top rec is the Skinceuticals A.G.E. Interrupter Serum.1 My injector said it was clinically studied in GLP-1 patients to help tighten and lift loose skin on the face and neck, and now I am on my 4th bottle since November. I use it as directed. I noticed enough difference in my marionette lines and an increase in “you have the best skin” compliments to keep purchasing.

  • If you need something else to reach $200 for the discount, I think the New Savant candles are worth a try! I was sent this Matcha one from the brand, and I have never smelled another candle that captures matcha's creaminess and freshness so perfectly. I ended up buying five other candles to try, including two for James for Father’s Day (he loves candles).

• Maya Chia - 20% off sitewide w/code 12YEARS

  We love this brush, small enough to fit in your purse or travel, but powerful enough to get out the tangles without ripping out hair. We also love this multi-benefit tanning serum. It provides a light, streak-free wash while also offering antioxidant and hydration benefits.

• Tower 28 - 28% off sitewide

  I love how eczema-friendly Tower28 is with their barrier repair line. We recently started Rebecca on their hypochlorous acid body wash, and it has helped the burning and itchiness she gets from showering SO much. Bonus - it also helps kill odor-causing bacteria. The MakeWaves mascara in Driftwood is a holy grail for me - I have been using it for 3.5 years! I did not like the new plumping gloss - it felt so weird and numbing on my lips!

• Experiment - 25% off sitewide (rare sale!)

  Another brand that I have 20+ empties of. The Super Saturated Serum is the holy grail, but I am loving their new exfoliating serum that is gentle enough for everyday use, too. All of my favorites with details are here.

While it was only the last few days of May, spending time with my family was my favorite. From Rebecca’s dance recitals, to Mother’s Day at my in-laws, to celebrating Rebecca’s birthday (several times…), and then James 40th in Cabo. Feeling loved…and like I need an at-home vacation without any commitments. However, it is summer time, which means I am now Rebecca’s personal camp director and chauffeur. Okay, lets get to my product favorites, though.

Pizza rolls

A lot of my favorites from May are food-focused. You have to understand - one of my favorite snacks growing up was pizza rolls. The spicy little pockets of lava - perfect. But at some point, they became a ghost of their past selves - unedible, even. I saw these while grocery shopping and decided to try them in case they tasted like the pizza rolls from the 90s - a flavor I have never stopped chasing. AND THEY DO. THEY’RE SO GOOD. Now I cannot find them in stock around me, so I don’t know if they are going viral.

Prepped Veggie Tray

I forgot how nice it is to have a veggie (or fruit!) tray prepped. I really am just lazy when it comes to eating, so when past Sarah preps snacks, like veggies, I will eat them all week. I like this tray the best because it fits so much. I just buy the pre-packaged vegetables and use my favorite ranch dressing with them.

Arnold Palmers

We visited Los Angeles in April to support our friend's launch, and I did not realize LA was the land of Arnold Palmers (APs) and tuna melts. Once I was home, I was hyperfixated on ice-cold APs. I am really loving this flavored iced tea from Gold Peak - peach and raspberry are sweetened with added fruit juice, and they also have a pre-made Arnold Palmer mix. I LOVE the peach iced tea mixed with Simply Raspberry Lemonade and a splash of unsweetened iced tea. I find it at Kroger or Meijer.

I bought this $10 Old Navy dress during their Memorial Day sale because I love a sleep tee, and they are so hard to find in 100% cotton anymore. I sized up one and brought it with me to Cabo and Gatlinburg. I wore it to bed, for getting ready, for walking to get a coffee, as a pool cover-up, and more. Rebecca asked if I had any other dresses because I was wearing it so much. I just love how soft it gets it every wash, and that it can be dressed up (like above) or worn as is.

Really love these personal fans because they can fold back so the air can be directed towards your face as it hangs from your neck, or can be set on a table. The battery lasts a while, too! This version is much more powerful but lacks the neck lanyard benefit; however, it can be worn on a lanyard and comes with a wristlet. I bought the Shark Chill Pill in April, and it is NOT worth the money. The mister is the big differentiator, but it only ends up lasting about 5 minutes per fill and does not make it worth 7x more - plus it is bulky!

Noyz Fragrance Milk. It’s funny, I have gone from someone who never wore fragrance to someone who does not feel complete without it. I love smelling good. I do not usually like vanilla-forward fragrances, but Only Human is different. It is vanilla, but also crisp and clean - almost reminds me of the clean cotton scent from Bath and Body Works. I have never smelled anything like it. When they sent me the fragrance mylk I was skeptical of their 12 hours of wear claims, but IT LASTS. I will receive compliments on my perfume all day. You just shake the mylk (like a hydrating essence) onto your skin and rub it in! Currently on sale at Ulta, depending on your Rewards level.

James turned 40, and he and Sarah were going to go on a couples trip to Cabo (more on that later). Then Sarah felt bad leaving Rebecca behind because she is so fun now, that they got an extra room, and I came along as her nanny. It was so fun. We listened to so much Olivia Rodrigo. And just did our makeup, and I taught her to do her brows. Good bonding time. Also, phase 10 is really fun.

Being gone like 10 of the last 14 days made me realize how much I miss my bed. My helix is forever a favorite.

These Abercrombie Pants. They are so versatile. You can wear them uncinched or cinched. I have them in cream and brown. Super breezy and not sheer. Comfy, don’t wrinkle much.

A local creator @hungryincbus shared her “last meal” picks in Columbus, and one sandwich immediately took over my brain. Anders and I drove to East Market (arguably Columbus’s best food hall) and ordered The Carmella plus some Southern comfort food from Fran’s next door. The perfect meal. The Carmella, you unforgettable little sandwich, you.

This tee and these pants. Love the stripe and the tee is perfectly vintage and washed, and easy colors to coordinate with soft pants

My cousin’s husband brought these portable beer salts on our trip, and they are SO good with a Mango white claw (and beer, too). The chili lime and lime were delicious.

These target bandanna sandals. I linked the entire outfit, but the sandals are actually really comfortable!

Hope you enjoyed our little catch-up! Be prepared to hear from us a little more in the coming weeks because Amazon Prime Day is June 23-26th and Nordstrom Anniversary Sale starts July 14th - some of our biggest revenue drivers for the entire year! We so appreciate it when you buy from our links! As a reminder, this is how we make money from cookies/paid opportunities.

Some of the links in this newsletter are commissionable links, which means we can make a commission at no extra cost to you. None of the links were paid opportunities (more below!).

Hope you all have a great week!

XX Sarah & Missy

Sarah, here. I struggled to put together my good list, not because I do not have things I loved the past week, but because it just feels so busy and chaotic. All of Rebecca’s extracurriculars are behind us for a few weeks, but we still have end-of-school-year craziness paired with probably one of our top five busiest seasons with work. Add in Rebecca’s birthday and James 40th four days later — it is feeling chaotic.

A Substack Chat Event

First order of business - Summer House Reunion.

I have consistently watched Summer House more than any other reality show and was invested in the scandal. The trailer looks so good. I know I will want to chat with friends as it is happening, but we all agreed we do not want to watch with other people because we need silent chatting, not actual talking - you know? So my friends and I will be in our Substack chat on Tuesday, May 26th, starting around 7:50 pm EST. Join us!

SARAH’S LIST

1. A continuation of last week

   Stephen Colbert’s last show, and then he showed up on public access TV in Monroe, Michigan, a day later.

2. Microneedling

   I decided to try microneedling with PRP in February and commit to a series of 3 as a 41st birthday present/Mother’s Day gift. Microneedling promotes collagen production and can address pigmentation issues. The first time was the most uncomfortable, but the second and last session were much easier. If you can, I recommend getting it as late in the day as possible so your face is still numb for bedtime. It ends up feeling like a sunburn for the next few days, but I do think it is helping.

3. Lab results

   I had to get labs done this week, and I always get nervous about them. Both of my parents died at 66, and there are a lot of autoimmune diseases, including diabetes, in our family. I have PCOS (now PMOS) and knew I had insulin resistance, so I had been on Metformin prior to 2022 to help regulate blood sugars. Then I started on a GLP-1 in November 2022 and switched to Mounjaro in May 2023. Look at these A1C numbers!

   

4. A cute necklace stack

   I don’t like accessorizing because it overwhelms me. However, I KNOW it makes an outfit. So I love throwing on fun necklaces when I have an otherwise boring outfit (which is all the time because I am a basics kind of girl). Both of these necklaces are perfect for summer and can be worn separately or together (they are named after Cher and Tai from Clueless). Perfect for white tanks and jeans! The pearl trio necklace is 20% off right now, and if you have not shopped there before, you can get the paracord necklace 20% off with SISTER20, too.

   

5. 1:1. time with James

   We only have one child (see PCOS and parents dying young above), so you would think it would be easier to find 1:1 time with James as she has gotten older. But I think we may have less? She spent the night at her friend’s last night, and we decided to go to East Market at 3:30 pm to get the sandwich Missy had been hyperfixated on all week (see below). I love an early evening date night. We were home by 6 to watch TV and in bed by 9, where we both read before going to sleep. My perfect date night.

MISSY’S LIST

1. A sandwich so good it took over my week - Buck City Sammies
A local creator @hungryincbus shared her “last meal” picks in Columbus, and one sandwich immediately took over my brain. Anders and I drove to East Market (arguably Columbus’s best food hall) and ordered The Carmella plus some Southern comfort food from Fran’s next door. The perfect meal. The Carmella, you unforgettable little sandwich - I may make a trip right now.

2. Banana Republic summer, yet again
Banana Republic summer collections do not miss for me. Every year I think about my summer picks and every year I forget Banana Republic until I place an order to try, and every year I end up obsessed with their linen pants, breezy dresses, and some vaguely Nancy Meyers meets Cult Gaia vacation version of myself. I come alive in the summertime.

They have 30% off this weekend, too. Some things I ended up loving:

• This linen mini skort is similar to the DISSH one I have and wore all summer 2024, but somehow it is more luxe and it is a more appropriate mini length. It does run a 1/2 size large in waist, but workable. Comes in black too.

• This linen tie front top is chic and sexy, but not trying too hard. Plus the linen is crisp and thick. I truly bought this whole outfit (well, not the Bottega shoes.) If between sizes, size down. Also comes in a yellow print and white.

• These striped linen pants are so perfect for our Cabo family trip.

• These wrap pants have sold out three times for a reason. Some sizing is limited, but I recommend sizing down 1-2 sizes. I ordered an L & XL (my true size), and the large is honestly still a little big. I will be honest, plan at least 20 minutes for steaming these.

• This tank looks like the perfect ribbed tank.

3. Going to the mall
I forgot I love being people-adjacent. Out in society, seeing outfits, overhearing conversations, but with very little required interaction. Also, thanks to a more flexible work schedule with Sarah and consulting, I can now experience the joy of a weekday mall trip. And let me just say: Abercrombie in person? CUTE.

4. Etsy rabbit holes are very fun
I have been deep in Etsy curation mode lately for wedding gems, and I forgot how fun it is to hunt for statement vintage earrings and fun home goods. Finding a truly weird-but-perfect pair gives me a disproportionate amount of joy. My current obsession and hunt is for vintage tees that aren’t too cliche. Unfortunately, my most-listened-to Spotify artists (besides the 12-hour Brown Noise Machine) are Fleetwood Mac and The Eagles, so I'm not sure it is possible to find a unique tee from either of them.

5. Our nephew, Jon, saying “sweetheart” to animals
Our nephew recently learned the word “sweetheart” and now says hello and goodbye to everything in sight. “Hi cows!” “Bye water!” “Bye, sweethearts!” (to the cows again.) He is so cute that the indoor sandbox I improvised, which effectively destroyed my living room and my cat’s peace, felt like it was worth it. Bonus entertainment included riding his bike into a fort made of cardboard boxes, which I desperately need to break down. It rained all day. Survival mode. Also grateful to Sarah for coming over and helping me get him down for a nap. When she said she rocks him to sleep, I greatly underestimated how much she rocks him. I would call it more of a bucking bull vs. a nap-time rock.

It has been the gloomiest/rainiest Memorial Day weekend we have had in a while. Usually, I like to spend time working or reading outside, but it has been an indoor weekend for me, which means we have had more time to curate some sales picks.

• Paige 25% off everything + free shipping -

  One of the best sales for the brand. Truly some of my favorite jeans and, importantly, every pair I own is a sit-down jean (IYKYK): looks good standing, comfortable sitting. Do they look good sitting down? What I look like sitting down is none of my business (but yes).

  This new Stevie bootcut pair makes my waist look good and the amount of flare is just right. Not too country. Also worth the investment: The Sasha. The perfect wide leg that isn’t too wide, somehow makes your butt look good, and makes a great work jean. Also includes men’s jeans- James and Anders are big fans of their jeans.

• EBY - 5 for $60 underwear

  The bras are BOGO free, but I have not been able to make the bras work for me (size 44C). However, I love the underwear. The high-waisted briefs have the FUPA support I want, but no VPL. I also love the sheer version. This is the lowest I have seen them go when you buy 5 pairs.

• Old Navy - 50% off plus an extra $10 off $75 or $25 off $100 w/ EXTRA

  Old Navy always has a sale, but this is half off everything, plus the extra $ off? This is a good sale. One of my (Sarah’s) favorite places for basics.

  • I lived in these shorts the past two summers. They are a little short, but I love the mid-rise and find them so flattering! I love this tee, but especially in the stripes. This tank sold out last summer - I have it in four colors. But also like this ribbed high-neck one. I also bought this t-shirt dress because I love sleep tees, but they are hard to find in 100% cotton.

• Banana Republic 30% off sitewide

  See Missy’s good things above for some of her picks. Of course, my picks are basics. I love this long-sleeve tee. It feels like a perfectly broken-in vintage jersey and has belled sleeves. Then I had to buy this wrap dress because I love the look of the skirt.

• Abercrombie 20-40% off PLUS extra 15% off with AFSUMMER

  Sarah loves the braless tanks. Abercrombie recently expanded their top sizing in their basics, and do not sleep on these braless tanks. They also have spaghetti-strap versions in so many colors. This red dress definitely came home with me. As did this Doen-inspired top, these brown drapey pants that could be wide leg or jogger-style, and then again in white. Use code AFSUMMER to save an additional 15% off sale prices.

• J.Crew - 40% off/50% off swim

• J.Crew makes great swimsuits. If you are plus-size, I love this one because it has shirring at the stomach and adequate FUPA coverage. Plus this color?! They also have a Hunza G material, and I think I need the cobalt blue. Another style, but a mid-cut leg in the blue here.

  • Other notable callouts: Gingham pants have been re-stocked but probably will sell out, the earrings above, these drawstring cotton poplin shorts, this ringer tee Sarah loves, this white cover-up I am wearing to a festival soon.

• H&M has a sale on everything right now. Their clothing can be pretty hit or miss for me but I love their H&M Premium pieces (higher-end and well-made,) and their shoes. These espadrilles caught my eye.

• Rothy’s - 25% off (exclusions apply)

  I was so excited for the Rothy’s sale because I LOVE my drivers - Comfortable, secret arch support, but has a back. However, they are not included. However, I bought these cute Espadrilles because you can lace up or wear them as a slingback. And of course, the clogs. I think I have five pairs. The footbed is better than a Birkenstock, but they are washable. Size down in the clogs.

• Naturium - 20% off ( My Top Pick since it is my most used)

  A great, affordable skincare brand. I LOVE their retinol body lotion. My most emptied product. When I switched to this lotion, I noticed my knees looked less crepey and tighter within a month. Also helps my Keratosis pilaris (the red bumps) on my arms. Check out my favorites here.

• Necessaire - 20% off sitewide (sponsored mention)

  The Sex Gel is still my top recommended product from them (see the reviews for yourself). I fell in love with the Olibanum scent last summer via the body wash (trial size) and lotion. Even just using the lotion, people will compliment my perfume. It is like a soft vanilla/fig combo. They made it in a fragrance, and it is finally included in the sale. I also love the body oil - it smells good, and it contains capsicum to help with cellulite.

• Sephora - Sephora has some brands marked down + get 500 extra points when you spend $75 with code STACKPOINTS. My top recommendation is this Sephora Favorites set that has a $179 value and is 30% off!

• Mother Science - 20% off w/code SISTER (sponsored mention)

  

  An antioxidant serum that can replace your Vitamin C serum or be used in addition to one that is 10x more effective in diminishing hyperpigmentation than Vitamin C. I have been using it for almost 3 years after posting about it. And unlike hydroquinone or alpha arbutase, no breaks needed! 20% off with our code SISTER20 (usually 15%). If you know you love it, the best deal is this set, which is 25% off. Also, Missy just started it as part of her wedding prep. Stay tuned

• Ulta - $10 off $50 or $20 off $100 with code MDW

  

  Linking to our Ulta favorites and sales strategy, but a current favorite callout that is rarely on sale- This “Only Human” fragrance milk from Noyz. While I do not normally like vanilla-scented fragrances, this one has the softness of vanilla, but the crispness of clean linen, too. I have the balm, EDP, and the skin mylk. The mylk is incredible because it lasts ALL day. Just shake some out and apply to your skin like an essence - hydrating and makes you smell good.

• Hanni - 20% off sitewide (sponsored mention)

  Hanni makes my favorite exfoliating shower scarf. It gets everything off - even a week-old spray tan, and it is washable. But, they also have some great eczema-safe products. Rebecca has terrible eczema. One of the eczema protocols is to apply a thick ointment as soon as you are done showering to lock in moisture. She is terrible at remembering to do this because she hates the feeling of ointment on her body. So I bought her the fragrance-free in-shower balm to use while she is in the shower, which she can rinse off quickly. She loves using it because it locks everything in, but doesn’t feel too greasy. They also have a fragrance-free balm stick, which is a travel essential for us because it will not count against your liquid limits, and you can apply it without getting anything on your hands.

• Hotel Lobby Candle - Free Shipping all weekend w/ MDW26

  I love the new Racquet Club candle - clean and refreshing. London became one of my favorites last year. I still love Hamptons for summer time. They also make perfume; London is my favorite, while Signature is Missy’s - a great time to try when there is free shipping!

• Dermstore - up to 25% off

  • Bioeffect is a holy grail brand for me, and 25% off is a good discount. I have been using the eye serum (value size) for four plus years to help lift and tighten in the morning before eye cream and the Power Serum (value size here), a growth factor serum to help with collagen production. It helps so much with firming and fine lines. I got all of my friends hooked on it (they have 50% off sales on those morning show deal sites from time to time), and they all agree - it even helps prolong the need for a Botox/Dysport re-up.

  • Alpha-H - This was a new-to-me brand that was recommended to me when I asked for a cleansing balm. Their cleansing balm is a full sensorial experience while also removing all your makeup. I have tried other products from the brand and LOVE this exfoliating hand cream, too.

• Ultra Violette - 30% off

  Speaking of sun damage, one of my new favorite sunscreen brands is 30% off sitewide. I bought the Future Screen during the last Sephora sale because I liked that it was such a small, thin bottle to carry in a bag. I ended up LOVING it as a mineral sunscreen and buying the full-size. Reminds me of the EltaMD, but not as glowy and with a more velvety finish? Plus, it is SPF50. Oh, and the travel-sized products are refillable! If you do not want mineral, they also have this one that is like a moisturizer and primer in one, and it is also available in a smaller size. I also liked this setting mist last year for extra sun protection because it is such a fine mist, but I would not rely on it solely for reapplication unless you are spraying a lot!

Sleep Favorites On Sale

We have never had a shopping post go viral on our Instagram until this one. You can shop for everything here, but it is not all on sale. Just an “in case you missed it PSA.”

• Helix Mattresses - 27% off w/SISTER- I know we have talked about it a lot, but it is truly one of the best things we did for our sleep. Full review here, including FAQs and some downsides.

• BedJet - 27% off w/code SISTER - Helix also has the Bedjet, which was my Mother’s Day gift last year. It is a fan you place at the foot of your bed that can either heat or cool it. It was just half off on the half-off morning show deal sites last week, but it ended.

  • If you sleep hot, it is a Godsend! I bought it after having several followers DM me that it was great for hot flashes, but it is actually great for people who are cold, too! I have the coldest feet, so I like to turn on turbo mode while doing my skincare routine, so it is nice and toasty for bedtime reading, then turn it on a lowest setting at 10% to continuously cool all night. You can make different schedules to completely customize your sleep experience. But we just use the cool all night. James might like it more than I do.

Bedding

• Follower-Favorite Target Sheets - 30% off.

  While I prefer bamboo sheets, these Target sheets are hard to beat. I bought my first set in 2009 and STILL HAVE IT. They only get softer with each wash, too. For some reason, the printed ones are better than the solid ones.

• Brooklinen- 25% off sitewide

  The first set of expensive sheets I bought was Brooklinen - I love their cotton sateen. I mainly buy their Duvets now because I love how well our sateen duvet has held up (7 years!) and how soft it is now. Also, they have really cute towels.

• The Company Store - up to 40% off

  My friend Sara loves to sleep, so I consider her an expert on sleep things. If you want that “sink into the bed cozy” feeling, she loves this mattress topper. We were gifted a down pillow from the brand, and I gave it to her since Missy and I can’t sleep on down, and she also loves it. She said the feathers don’t poke out, either.

Furniture, Decor, Lighting

• Visual Comfort - 20% off - a rare sale on lighting

  I used Memorial Day last year to purchase all the new lighting for my cloffice, and LOVE it. James was even able to install it!

• Ruggable - up to 25% off. I wasn’t the biggest fan of Ruggable until they introduced the all-in-one version. But they really are the rugs to get, especially if you have kids or an older dog that has a lot of accidents (or is spiteful on purpose). We just bought their new jute-like rugs (25% off) for our porch outside because, even though it is screened in, the rug gets SO dirty from all the pollen. They have a good selection of outdoor rugs, though.

Revolve’s beauty sale is great because it carries many of the same brands Sephora does and always offers free shipping. These are my top ten picks based on sales frequency and how much I love the product!

Things I love and use almost every day

Caudalie Self-Tan Drops

I have a hard time finding face tanner because most of them are too warm. I was wondering why I was feeling so pretty this week, and it is because I have been back to adding in my tanning drops to my moisturizer! This one is very subtle and very forgiving. You just add 2-6 drops to your moisturizer, and you're done! You will have some sun-kissed color the next day. Included this pic because you can see a slight difference in my décolletage and chest.

Mutha Body Butta, $100 (yes, I know)

I am obsessed with moisturizing my body. It started a few years ago as I was losing weight and wanted to tighten my skin. Then, just like my skincare routine, it became a habit I looked forward to because I could immediately notice a difference. I was gifted this body butter by the brand and have purchased it myself four times using my own discount code. I LOVE the experience of using it. It is a thick balm that melts into your hand and applies like a heavier body oil. It locks in moisture and makes my skin so soft, along with the prettiest glow. I love the new Detox Greens scent even more than the original scent. I travel with the body butter melt, more like a heavier body oil that is essential when traveling to dry climates.

Sol de Janeiro Bom Dia Bright body wash, $26

I have been using this for three years. I always come back to it because I love the juicy scent that brightens my shower and mildly exfoliates my skin.I notice a lot more ingrowns and boils when I do not use this. I also use the deodorant because I love how it smells.

Hanni Splash Salve - Fragrance Free

Rebecca has terrible eczema. One of the eczema protocols is to apply a thick ointment as soon as you are done showering to lock in moisture. She is terrible at remembering to do this. So I bought her the in-shower balm to use while she is in the shower, which she can rinse off quickly. She loves using it because it locks everything in, but doesn’t feel too greasy. They also have a fragrance-free balm stick, which is a travel essential for us because it will not count against your liquid limits, and you can apply it without getting anything on your hands. Another eczema staple for us is this hypochloric acid body wash.

Oribe Gold Lust Dry Heat Protectant

Oribe sales are rare, minus their annual sale and a Revolve sale. This is my favorite heat protectant that you use after your hair is dry and before using heat tools. I use it before a straightener and a curling iron, and not only does it protect my hair (and smell amazing), but it also makes it shiny and smooth without weighing my fine hair down.

Makeup holy grails

Kosas Undereye Color Corrector

I have been using this for about a year now, and it is still my favorite undereye color corrector. It is hydrating yet thin enough that it does not build up, since it is meant to be layered under concealer. It does SO much for my dark, sunken-in eyes, though. I use shade Magic. Watch the video above to see how to use! My favorite concealer, is also included! I use shade RN3. I also love the foundation.

Huda Beauty Matte Obsessions eyeshadow palette

This might be the only eyeshadow palette I have panned a few of the colors. And I was panicking when I saw it was no longer at Sephora, which makes me wonder if it is being discontinued? The bottom-left and middle are the perfect balancing colors for my eyelids to brighten and even out. Then I can add a little smoky eye to the corners and lash line.

Fragrance Favorites

I can’t believe I never used to wear fragrance regularly. It was not until losing my mom that I realized I needed a signature scent. My mom wore perfume every day, and one of the things that will take me RIGHT BACK to her voice is the scent of her old perfumes. Scent is so personal, I know.

I love clean, crisp, bergamot, and tea-based scents. The kind you usually smell in a hotel lobby. I have just started to like warmer vanilla-based scents, too.

I smelled Dear Polly (a tea-based scent) on a work trip and LOVE it. It is expensive, but it lasts all day on me. It is NEVER 20% off except for this sale. I also love DS & Durga I Don’t Know What, which is a single-note fragrance enhancer that can be worn alone. If something is too sweet, I will just add it for some balance. Also, rare discounts except for this sale.

If you are looking to treat yourself, I love this fragrance sampler trio from Oribe. Good-sized samples, and I love them all.

Le Prunier candles, $70 (yes, I know)

I love a fancy candle, I guess. I was originally sent the Spring Bloom candle to our office and did not expect to fall for it as hard as I did. It smells so soft, slightly sweet, and happy. The Fall Harvest version is not your typical fall smell, but more of the softness of the spring with a little smokiness.

Salt & Stone candles, $49

Salt & Stone is rarely on sale + free shipping, and I love their fragrances. They do remind me a lot of Le Labo fragrances, which is probably why I like them. But their Santal and Vetiver candle? It is GOOD. I think I have burned through four of them. If you like sandalwood or Le Labo Santal 26 candle, you will love it.

Dedcool Xtra Milk Home and Linen spray

I have been wearing Dedcool for almost 4 years. My favorite scent is Xtra Milk, which reminds me of a soft, musky, yet clean scent. The perfume is sold out, but I tried out this home and linen spray when I was at home and love it. Going to buy while it is on sale.

This week: 10 things making us happy and sales worth your time. 

I have been SLOWLY reintegrating Sunday Dinner back into our workflow. I always forget how much I actually like writing, but it is a lot like working out for me - dread it until I am doing it.

We get brands reaching out to us asking if they can be featured in our cooking newsletter, and it is hard to explain that a Substack called Sunday Dinner isn’t really about dinner. Just an homage to the weekly practice of having dinner at my parents’ house. A weekly catch-up.

That dinner table raised us. So many arguments - and they would get heated. But even more laughter and bonding. We don’t have them as often as we used to, but we still try to have them once or twice a month - always casual.

The Good List - 10 things making us happy

Sarah’s List

1. I took a real day off!

   I tried to take Mother’s Day off to just do nothing, but couldn’t relax. I decided to take Monday off by bricking my phone and reading. I ended up reading all day because I couldn’t put Into the Blue down. A romance book that spans more than a decade between two friends. The yearning is SO. GOOD. The character development. The worlds within worlds. Five stars for me.

2. The Late Night Farewell guests

   I used to love watching Late Night when I was younger, so I have always been interested in Late Night. I love Stephen Colbert, and while I am sad it came to him losing his show, I have loved all of his recent guests and dialogue. I especially love his “fuck it all” attitude. Maybe it is because of the Leno/Letterman rivalry I grew up with, but there is something healing about seeing all of the hosts together, like when Strike Force Five reunited. Seeing him make out with Sally Fields. Julia Louis-Dreyfus reprising her role as Selina Meyer. (Also, Pedro Pascal in this reel? Damn!) A sit-down with Obama. It has brought me so many laughs and smiles lately. It is worth looking through their Instagram to see which episodes to watch.

3. Running Point on Netflix

   I love Mindy Kaling and forgot I wanted to watch this show last year. So when the new season launched, I finally started it with James. It is hard to find a good 30-minute comedy/lightweight show to watch together and we both love it.

Missy’s List

A long one this week because it’s been a while since we’ve done a true Sunday Dinner and because my favorite season is finally here, which immediately makes me feel more like myself.

1. When I finally force myself to do the things I’ve been avoiding for months, and they all work out and I ride on that wave of productivity

   I have ADHD and OCD, specifically the avoidant kind. Which means I avoid things that make me anxious, even when they are objectively simple tasks. This is a really fun combination when you need to do things like ship packages, return things, renew your passport, or update your driver’s license.

   Not only do I put these things off forever, but while I’m doing them I also have intrusive OCD thoughts the entire time. Recently I had to renew my passport and expedited it because we have a trip coming up. Then I spent the next week and a half fully convinced it would somehow be denied. That the State Department would uncover some secret criminal past I didn’t know I had. Or discover hundreds of thousands of dollars in unpaid taxes that also do not exist. Or that I accidentally violated some international travel rule without realizing it. I know it sounds irrational. That’s the OCD part.

   But today my new passport arrived and I felt SO relieved that I immediately rode the wave of momentum and requested copies of my Social Security card and birth certificate too. Honestly, I haven’t known where either of them were since my mom passed away. She was the keeper of all the important documents and random sentimental things like our class rings, which sounds ridiculous considering I’m almost 40.

   Anyway, now I’m finally getting my compliant ID too. I also finally sent out of Vegas Save the Dates and planned our wedding events. I’m on a roll.

2. My upgraded bed life. My bed has always been a happy place to me but recent upgrades have made me truly happy. If you read our Helix blog, you would know that I was born tired. Maybe it is mental health or maybe it is inflammation or maybe my bed is just my safe space.

   Anders and I had a queen bed for over 10 years together, but now we finally have a king. And honestly? We feel like kings. The cats are thrilled too because they can either cuddle with us or sleep three feet away in their own section of the bed. Add in new Brooklinen sheets, my Goosebumps adult swaddle blanket (SISTER15 to save 15%,) and my Sleep Crown collection and suddenly my bed feels less like furniture and more like a lifestyle.

   By the way, there is a drop Tuesday, May 17 for Sleep Crown - set your alarms if you want them they go fast.

3. Sundresses and breezy buttonups and sets Linen is one thing Sarah and I disagree on. I love a 100% linen breezy dress or set. I love linen pants. I love being able to throw something easy on while still looking put together. Linen and 100% cotton tops and sets are my favorites - but I also realize linen blends might run on the warmer side (not as breathable) there are some benefits with blend - like less maintenance and less wrinkling.

   At the mall this week, I picked up this perfect linen-blend dress I shared in our last substack. When I say it is CUTE I would be understating the cuteness. Seriously, look at it! I also picked up this button up that I immediately wore out last night. I like the soft 97% cotton ( +3% spandex so the sleeves don’t feel claustrophobic.) and I love the bold stripe. Plus, they are both on sale + a stackable code1.

   Also, I shared this linen set, from With Nothing Underneath, that was sent to me and so many of you loved it. It is not inexpensive, but it is my new everyday outfit that you all will get sick of seeing - if you remember the brown sweatsuit Sarah nicknamed brown town - this is officially my summer version.

4. My Brick has helped me manage my peace by managing my screen time. To give credit where credit is due, Sarah tried to convince me to get this for months. Finally, she just mailed one to me. I didn’t get it at first but now I do.

   
   If you don’t understand what it is (I did not even though Sarah has shared it 25 times.) The Brick is basically a little device+app that helps block distracting apps on your phone. You tap your phone to the little device to de-activate it, or you can have it set up on schedules based on what apps you want to block. I have mine set on a schedule every evening through the next morning so it blocks social media and news apps during the times I spiral the most. It has honestly made my mornings so much less anxious because I’m not immediately waking up and absorbing bad news or endlessly scrolling.

   It also helps me ease into a bedtime routine and a morning routine which, to be clear, I am still actively working on and my morning is less of a routine and more of series of loosely connected activities.

   I also have a routine called “Absolutely no distractions,” and it is basically blocking everything but navigation and calls. Sarah hates this one.

5. A comforting scent all over my house. There is truly nothing I love more than a good home fragrance. I will always love my Hotel Lobby candles, but I also live for a good scented detergent or scent booster. Recently I shared how much I love the Downy Unstoppables Unlimited Collection. No. 26 because the scents feels luxe and one container lasts forever.

   I still love my Snif and DedCool laundry products, but it’s nice finding something I genuinely love that is less expensive and easy to smell in person at a store before buying. Downy just released a new scent that is completely my home scent vibe. Downy Folia Botanicals Beads Scent Boosters is a new scent that is clean and fresh - withbase notes of eucalyptus and hints of basil and bergamot + a light floral undertone that is not too floral-y. I washed all my couch pillow covers, bedding, and pajamas in it and now my entire house smells comforting and chic in the best way. It honestly makes me immediately happier and more relaxed. My bed and couch somehow feel even cozier now, something I did not think was possible.

6. This magnesium drink. SISTER15 to get 15% off, and one container lasts forever.

   I’ve also been sleeping so much better since starting it. It has three different types of magnesium, and while pills are technically easier (Sarah likes these), being on a GLP and dealing with slower digestion makes timing capsule supplements kind of unpredictable, for me at least. This one is a powdered drink mix, which has been much easier because it is absorbed much faster. I just make it about 30 minutes before bed, and that’s it. My sleep scores have been over 85 almost every day lately, even when I only get 6-7 hours of sleep.

A bonus moment of happiness and appreciation:

My family has always made me really happy, but with Ben and Kelly adding a new member to our little immediate family, I feel even more grateful for all of it lately. My nephew is the cutest, my new niece is adorable, and even though newborns still kind of terrify me, I love her so much already. And Rebecca is turning into this little almost-adult with such a good sense of humor. She also loves shopping and girly things, which unfortunately for everyone, are also my favorite things.

Sarah’s husband’s birthday is coming up, so Sarah, James, and Rebecca are taking a little trip to Cabo and I’m coming along as Rebecca’s nanny. She and I are sharing a room and honestly I think it’s going to be one of those memories we both have forever.

I still remember little trips with my own aunts and cousins so clearly. One summer I spent almost the entire season with my cousin Karen helping babysit her daughter, my cousin Alyssa, and I still think about how fun and special that summer felt. I don’t know, maybe summer just makes me sentimental, but it feels nice realizing those little family memories end up meaning so much later on.

Subscribe now

Sale Alert

Memorial Day sales start earlier and earlier - I cannot believe how much is on sale already! Beauty and furniture/home sales are usually the best during this time of year.

1. Oribe Hair Sale - 20% off all individual items + Free Shipping. A great sale because you always get two deluxe samples with every order. My top recommendation if you want to treat yourself for under $20? This fragrance sampler trio. While it is not included in the sale, it includes free shipping and two deluxe samples worth $20 - great if you have never tried the brand! My list of favorites with explanations here.

2. Ann Taylor sale + stacking code. The top and dress I mentioned above are GOOD, and there is a 40% off a single item promo going on that stacks with 10% email signup discount. Or if you want more than one item, you can stack the 25% off everything sitewide with an extra 20% off code. The code for an extra 20% off is HC38FBH39RR5, which makes everything 40% off!

3. Supergoop Sunscreen Sale - 20% off sitewide + extra 10% off with SISTER10 if you are a new customer. The only sitewide sale before the summer season (they also do one in the fall). The Super Steals are the best value if you are stocking up. The SPF50 and Vitamin C spray is my family’s favorite sunscreen. It does not bother Rebecca’s eczema, and we all love the fine mist. I also love the lotion and the portable stick for touch-ups on the go.

4. Helix Mattresses are 27% off with code SISTER. The one thing we have probably influenced more friends than followers to buy. We get it. We know these are a BIG purchase. So Missy does what she does best - went down a research spiral on mattresses and wrote an in-depth post on why we love ours, what to expect, returns, potential downsides, FAQs - she covered it all.

5. J.Crew 40% off almost everything and a lot of our favorites are included. We both placed an order this week so we will be sure to share what we love. My bikini is an extra 40% off the sale price. I grabbed these brown linen pants because I love the fit and color. Sarah grabbed some of her favorite tees. I grabbed this perfect green suit in long torso. I love this floral skirt that looks like a sarong but is actually sewn down. Don’t forget they also have good jewelry, like this turquoise necklace for under $30.

6. Violet Grey 20% Sale. If you’re not familiar, Violet Grey sells luxury skincare and beauty products and only has a sale a couple times a year - so it’s a good time to stock up. Sarah loves this body butter because it makes your skin insanely soft, helps with elasticity, and somehow still doesn’t feel greasy. One container lasts so long. Another favorite from both of us: this instant peel. I use it before spray tans or anytime I’m dealing with texture or KP. It’s a gentle gommage exfoliator so no harsh scrubbing required.

7. Soma bras are all on sale for $30, and I think I found a new favorite low-impact bra. The Yoga bra is so soft, it doesn’t have those removable cups- it has a sewn-in lining layer that doesn’t add volume but does add coverage. I took a nap in it. Also, don’t just take my word for it - two followers sent in that this was a favorite of theirs. Sarah loves the Enbliss bra and it is very popular for a reason.

   

Long time, no talk. Whenever life gets chaotic and stressful, I become a turtle and retreat into my shell for solitude and protection. It can sound crass when I say this, but one of the benefits of going through as much as I did in my early 30s (losing my mom, caring for a 4-year-old and a 64-year-old, pandemic, remote work, remote teaching…) was that I learned how to prioritize. And not just in the way everyone thinks about prioritization — I learned how to drop multiple balls I was juggling and be okay with it. One of those balls is this Substack. I miss writing more long-form content, so I am going to prioritize it again, soon.

Before we get to some shopping coverage and a homeowner PSA, a few things:

• If Mother’s Day is hard for you because you lost your mom, check out these reels Missy and I recently posted. If you resonate with these, we have a grief page where we have collected all our grief posts, highlights, and Substack posts in one place.

  • When you faint and forget your mom died

  • When it’s been 7.5 years, a memory can still bring you to your knees

• I saw this on my Substack feed and couldn’t stop thinking about it and sharing it with people in my life who are at a crossroads in their careers after being laid off. I still cannot believe I get to do this as a career and never would have guessed I would end up here. But I wouldn’t be here if I hadn't taken the risk to just try it. The only thing I will add is to get comfortable being uncomfortable. I think they all go hand in hand.

  

THIS IS AN IMPORTANT PSA IF YOU ARE A HOMEOWNER

In February, we had another leak in our basement. I say again, because three years ago our finished basement flooded. We had to do the mold remediation, pull everything up, and rebuild. This year, it affected only a small part of the refinished-and-refinished-again basement, but the implications were broader - we had to replace our main water line that brings the water into our house.

I found out that this is not covered under home insurance. If you have city water, you either need to get the water main line insurance you keep getting mailers about, or ask your insurance agent if you have a separate rider for this coverage. They had to dig up our entire front yard to try and find and repair the line, but couldn’t find it because it was under our driveway, so they had to place a new one ($7k). We had to tear up our flooring and drywall for mold remediation ($1700), remodel that ($3.5k), and then repair our front lawn ($3k). All in all, it ended up being a $15k expense, and insurance had a max coverage of $10k. So yeah, get that coverage.

Shopping Notes

Anthropologie - 20% off $100+ regular priced items

Anthropologie gave every influencer and creator a code this weekend (ours is SISTER20 for 20% off $100+ regular priced items), but I am not complaining. My favorite season to shop for is summer - give me all the easy, breezy button-downs and swim cover-ups! It also includes home, furniture, shoes, clothing, accessories, you name it. There are some brand exclusions, but a lot less than you’d think.

• These sandals were one of our top sellers of last month. I love that they are only transparent on top and flat. True to size.

• Damson Madder - rare brand sale! These Damson Madder pants are a new addition to my wardrobe, and I truly could not love them more. I feel like they are going to be a pretty popular staple for me this summer. They run large, I think. This dress is also very cute. This rain jacket is perfect, and if I did not already own too many, it would be a buy for me.

  

• Sarah grabbed this linen button-up. She does not usually like linen, but this is 100% linen that actually feels soft and not itchy. True to size, but size up for an oversized look. She has been loving corded jewelry lately for an easy statement piece. They are not included in the sale because they are already on sale, but how cute is the corded crystal charm necklace? Or the necklace she is wearing below? Under $30!

  

• Sarah grabbed this Pucci-esque swim cover-up; however, it was way too big. Exchanging for a smaller size because it is so chic! The collar detail?! The pink is also so cute.

• Reformation is another brand that rarely goes on sale, and a few of my favorites are available at Anthro and are included in the sale. This off-shoulder top is such a good staple. It is not cropped, it is easy to wear, and it is just screaming for a pair of statement earrings. I sized down.

  

Doen Mother’s Day Sale

Doen rarely does sales, and there are some pieces Sarah and I genuinely think are worth the splurge. (Still a splurge on sale, to be clear.) It is final sale, but Doen resells incredibly well and they even have their own resale platform, Hand Me Doen, which makes it super easy. We’re sharing favorites plus the best sizing advice we can, since it is a final sale. I think just about everything we are sharing runs a full-size large. Not everything from Doen does, beware. But their XXL often fits up to size 20, especially anything with smocking.

• This dress is truly stunning. The sleeves are adjustable, the fabric feels like a soft sheet set, and it’s super breathable since it’s 100% cotton. It is 50% off and in stock in all sizes (very rare). I think it runs a size large. I like to call this my Spain dress. I had this vision for my solo Spain trip: a red dress, dramatic photos, and commemorating my “year of yes” aka the first year I could kind of function again after grief. It is also available in a cream floral if that is more your style.

  

• Another favorite dress is the Ischia - it is probably one of my most-worn styles. I have it in light blue, gingham, and a black floral. Just ask Sarah, I wore it nonstop on our trip to LA. As a nightgown, while getting ready, even to Erewhon. It’s such a multi-tasker. I also brought it on all my trips to Europe. It’s light, breezy, and made from 100% cotton. One thing to note: it definitely runs 1–2 sizes large

  

Sarah and I both have this top style and love it. It is 100% cotton and also very breezy (sense a pattern?) Runs a size large. Sarah also loves this style as well, because it is so lightweight, soft, and breezy. It is the perfect summer top because it will feel like you are wearing nothing. Runs large, too.

Ann Taylor (sponsored mention)

40% off plus you can stack a 10% off code if you sign up for emails and texts. Every time I mention Ann Taylor, people question me, but they are killing it.

• I truly cannot believe how cute this belted gingham dress is. I bought it, but I have not received it yet. Also, these gingham pants.

• I also bought these pointed slingbacks, because I cannot pass up a good pair. They are very similar to a Veronica Beard style I have been coveting.

• Also, it is conference season, and I think Ann Taylor makes some great options for conference attire. I love this suit, and if I had any reason to wear a suit right now, it would be mine.

  

• These triple-pleated wide-leg pants are really giving the look of a very rich person heading from the office straight to their home in the Hamptons. Also, it could be cute for work too. My experience with Ann Taylor is that the pants and dresses tend to run a little small - if between sizes, size up.

Gap - 40% off + Extra 10% off (Sarah’s picks)

Everything is 40% off, plus an extra 10% off with code GREAT. Top picks include: These cropped flare stretchy pants (TTS), Easy Pants - they really are so easy and look so chic because of their drape (and are never included in sale!), the softest cooling pajamas that are dupes for Negative Underwear (top runs small, though) - I have the pants, tank, tee, and shorts. Oh, and their deep Vs are so flattering. I have the long-sleeve and the short-sleeve. If you ever wore an American Apparel deep V back in the day, these are close ( I MISS THOSE).

Madewell - 25% off shoes and accessories (Sarah’s picks)

25% off all accessories, shoes included. I LOVE a Madewell bag. I remember when Morgan Stewart made a video in front of all of Hermes, and I thought about how funny it would be if I made one in front of all of my Madewell bags. Let’s see what my Madewell SA offered up today:

I bought this bag last year in a different print, and it holds SO much. I love their leather caning - this looks like the perfect summer bag. These leather strappy sandals.I love these aviators. The black have the perfect brown lenses.

Hodge Podge

I have been getting targeted by Nordstrom Rack IG ads, and I am not mad about it because it is overwhelming to shop on their website. They suggested this cute bag and this cool statement shell necklace - both under $40?! I also did not realize they carried Clare V and the Lune is one of my favorite shoulder bags because it is so comfortable.

Speaking of Clare V, I have been loving my Grande Fanny Bag. To think, I almost returned it! But I put it in my work bag, then took it out so I wouldn’t have to carry my heavy work tote, and I fell in love. It is flat, but still holds so much. The color I have is no longer available, but I did find a 15% off promo code (BISOUS15) on the website if you are interested in other colors.

Aurate has 25% off for Mother’s Day. They have really good fine and demi-fine jewelry at great prices (because they run sales pretty frequently). I love these white sapphire hoops - they are so unique! And Missy loves this baby diamond necklace for a barely-there, never-have-to-take-off sparkle.

Nordstrom has a lot of beauty marked down. 30% off the cleansing balm that got me hooked, because not only is it a sensorial experience to use it (smells so good and is SO creamy), but it also gets off all your makeup and sunscreen on the first try. Elemis could NEVER. They also have 15% off many luxury fragrances that rarely go on sale, like Byredo, Vilhelm Parfumerie, and DS & Durga.

The Therabody portable cold- and heat-therapy wand is marked down everywhere it is sold, but I recommend getting it at Nordstrom so you can buy one of my favorite moisturizing sticks, which is also on sale, to use with it. If you have any kind of facial pain or suffer from migraines, this is for you. To help it glide across my skin, I use it after my skincare, apply this balm beforehand, or spray a hydrating spray on my face.

One of my favorite skincare brands is 50% off on View Your Deal. I LOVE the Power Serum and have been using it consistently for almost 2 years. It is a growth factor that helps address collagen production. I do a lot to support collagen production, but my skin cells are trying to retire early, and I am trying to incentivize them to keep working!

Well, that is all for now! I am wiped out after a long day of dance recital prep, dance recitals, and working. I hope you have a beautiful Sunday and spend it doing the things you love!

XX, Sarah & Missy

I never consumed THC regularly. The few times I did it in college, I ended up with bronchitis. It was fun, but not worth the cough that would vibrate windows for weeks on end after smoking it. Sure, I could have tried edibles, but all those movies about accidentally getting too high on the brownies someone brought to a party gave me trust issues.

So when I first heard about microdosing, I was INTRIGUED. I talk a little about how I came to use THC vs drinking alcohol below. If you are not interested in the yapping, you can scroll down to the bottom where I discuss my favorites and why!

The girls trip

My first exposure to THC derived from hemp was on a girls’ trip in July 2022 with friends I met on Instagram that I had never met in real life. What a great time to try them! brought Earlybird CBD (promo code below) gummies and offered them to everyone at the pool. I had never tried microdosing before, but she said having an edible helped take the edge off - kind of like having a glass of wine.

SIGN ME UP. Of course, as someone who has always been more of a binge drinker and eater, I broke the cardinal rule of edibles - wait a few hours until you try another one. I waited like an hour and was like “ I don’t feel anything! I will take another!” Famous. last. words. I ended up feeling so relaxed and high (that is 5 mg of THC - a lot for someone who wasn’t used to it) that I mistook a roll of silverware for a burrito. Which then made me crave a burrito.

But man. I SLEPT WELL. Sarah sent each of us home with our own mini stash.

Disclaimer - you are about to experience some whiplash from a fun story to a sad one… that’s life though, isn’t it?

Unfortunately, a few weeks after that trip, my best friend of 25 years passed away. I was not sleeping at all, remembered I had them, and they helped me get back into a regular sleep routine. I ordered my own bottle after that. As someone who has always struggled with anxiety, I loved how these felt -like taking away the anxiety butterflies that always fly around in your stomach - vs drinking alcohol — and no hangover.

My foray into drinkable THC

I started on a GLP-1 in November 2022 - about four months after trying Earlybird for the first time. I tried Ozempic first. I did not see much traction with it in terms of either weight loss or lowering my A1C, but I did notice that drinking alcohol felt much different than it used to. Six months later, I started Mounjaro and have been on it since! A life-changing drug for me - my A1C went from 6.2 (diabetes is 6.5) to 5.2, and I have gradually lost 80 lbs over 3 years. Amazing! But I had to learn the hard way how these drugs could interact with alcohol and other medicines.

I am not a medical provider and am still confused about how GLP-1s really work, but I know that they cause delayed gastric emptying. It took me a while to realize that the delayed gastric emptying was contributing to a delayed buzz, which in turn contributed to WHOATs (worst hangovers of all time - coined by me, not the medical community).

When I was at our local wine and brew store, I picked up some Cann seltzers. I was comfortable trying them since it was a lower dose of THC, and I had experience with Earlybird. I ended up loving the buzz I got from them, that they tasted like a cocktail, and that I did not have to worry about a hangover. Unlike edibles or liquor, they took effect much faster when consumed via a drink.

I never consumed alcohol that frequently, but did miss it when the weather was nice1 or out to dinner with friends. I loved that I now had something that still acted as a little social lubricant, but did not give me hangxiety. 2

The CBD to THC ratios

I cannot emphasize enough that I am not a medical provider, nor have I done any research on this whatsoever. Consume at your own risk; I am just basing these observations on my own testing and chats with friends. In my personal experience, different ratios of CBD to THC can help with different things.

A too-long, didn’t read (TLDR) of my favorites:

• For anxiety/sleep

  • Earlybird -currently 25% off sitewide with code 420

• A nightcap to unwind but also help with sleep

  • Cann Seltzers or their Hi-Boys seltzers (30% off today only!)

• For social outings

  • WIMS (20% off today or use code SISTER15APRIL FOR 15% OFF). They have a 1:1 CBD to THC ratio and give me that slight buzz without making me sleepy. I probably use these the most because I love how portable they are!

The 5:1 ratio (CBD to THC) - for anxiety/sleep

If something has just CBD in it, I notice I do not feel as much of a relaxation effect. If there is a small amount of THC with a higher amount of CBD, I am feeling relaxed and SLEEPY.

That’s why I still love Earlybird CBD (currently 25% off with code 420). If you are not on a GLP-1, I would start with the edibles. Can take up to 2 hours to take effect. They also have a sampler trial pack you can try. While I no longer partake in edibles because I take a GLP-1, I started using their tincture and LOVE it.

Every dose of tincture has 2.5 mg of THC paired with at least 12.5 mg of CBD. The tinctures with higher mg just have more CBD, but the THC is the same across their offerings. I like the 750 mg ratio (the amount for the entire bottle, so 12.5 mg of CBD per serving) the best. I shake it really well, add a dropperful under my tongue, hold it there at least a minute, and swallow. Helps me come down from anxiety in five minutes. Again, I am not recommending this as a replacement for acute anxiety disorders - just what I like to do!

My favorite THC drinks

As someone who has been microdosing THC on occasion for the past 3 years, these are my favorites. I have learned that the THC-to-CBD ratio matters for the effect you want. I have also learned that even though THC is now legal in Ohio, I still prefer not to have to leave my house to procure it.

WIMS - 1:1 CBD to THC ratio - giggly and relaxed

These are most used because they are small and discreet, and do not require a signature upon delivery. However, if you are not used to THC, they could be a little too much for starting out (see Cann below). My favorite flavor is ginger lime because I love adding it to cranberry and soda with a squeeze of lime. I will feel giggly, relaxed, and still in control. Unflavored is good if you have a lot of flavor you are adding it to (like sodas or a mocktail), but it can have a weed aftertaste.

Cann

Cann has some of the best flavors. Their seltzers are my favorite replacement for an ice-cold beer on a sunny day since they are so fizzy. Ratios vary based on the product. Currently 30% off on 4/20, otherwise 20% off with SISTER20. You do have to be home to get the package because they check ID.

2:1 CBD to THC ratio - good for starting out

They have multiple products with this ratio, which will leave you with a little buzz and a little sleepy

• Cann Seltzers - pre-made seltzers with 2 mg of THC to 4 mg of CBD. My favorite flavor is the orange, and I also love Yuzu!

• Cann Roadies - pouches you can take on the go with 2 mg of THC to 4 mg of CBD! They are flavored, so you can add them to sparkling water or just take them like a shot. They contain more liquid than a WIMs, so it can overpower a mocktail. Orange is my favorite in those, but I think they are out of stock. I also like Yuzu and the lemon lavender (must like lavender).

• Cann Hi Boys - still the same 2:1 ratio, but with higher strength of THC and CBD (5mg THC/10 mg of CBD). For me to feel a buzz, I have to use this strength, but it will make me sleepy. They are great for a nightcap!

Just THC, No CBD - for when you want to feel the giggles

• Cann Spritz - 3.5 mg of THC/serving.

  • If you love an Aperol Spritz, you will LOVE this one. I like it even better than Aperol because it is not as bitter. I just add to flavored or plain sparkling water! Or if I am feeling crazy, Sprite or Fresca. You can easily adjust the serving based on what you are comfortable with.

• Cann Naked Hi Boy - 5 mg of THC

  • Portable packets to add to your drink! These are best for mocktails. They do have a slight weed aftertaste, but if you mix them with something high in flavor, you can’t taste it! This is what I brought with me to Mexico. You will get the munchies with these.

    

Cann Hi-er Boys - 10 mg of THC per serving

• This one IS FUN. Quinessential silly high with so many giggles. I would recommend sharing with someone if you are not used to THC. And if you are - well, make sure you are in a safe place with no plans to drive and lots of munchies around.

Missy also likes OHHO, which is 40% off right now with code APRIL40. I usually stick to what I know and like, so I haven’t ventured into other ones as she has. OHHO has CBG in it, which can help counteract the sleepiness. Each flavor contains different dosings. Although her favorite thing is this CBD cream, which helps with her joint pain.

Happy gardening!

Sephora is one of my favorite stores to shop at because I always feel… welcome. When you’re a size 20+ most of your adult life, and a size 12 in shoes, the opportunities to shop in person were, and still are, nonexistent. I always felt at home in a Sephora. No shelf or section is off limits. No dressing room mirror of shame. Freedom to shop.

That’s why I love this sale. Yes, it’s a good time to save a little money, but it’s also a chance to stock up on the brands that rarely go on sale or are exclusive to Sephora. We narrowed down our top favorites (we still have plenty more) based on what we’d actually repurchase at full price, what you can only get at Sephora, and what almost never gets discounted.

If you are reading this in your email, you will want to pop it out of your email app or read it in the Substack app as it is a longer one!

Top priority? Value kits & Sephora Collection items

There are two things I always recommend shopping for or browsing during this sale - Sephora Collection items (30% off for everyone) and value kits.

Sephora Collection Favorites 30% off

• I LOVE this daily brush cleaner [ full-size | travel-size] It is good for cleaning your brushes on the go or when you want to use a brush for multiple products.

• This 10-hour lip stain. I would not say it lasts 10 hours, but it does have good staying power. A matte liquid lipstick that feels like velvet on your lips. I bought it in multiple colors after my makeup artist used it on me last year, with 69-Hippy Pink being my favorite.

• On-the-go blotting papers. Great for oily or sweaty girls! Stay matte on the go with these! They remind me of the Clean and Clear ones I used to use, but they have a nice carrying case and a little sticky puff that makes it easy to pick up the paper and apply it to your face.

• This bronzing brush blends like a dream while picking up just the right amount of product.

Sephora Favorites Value Kits

• $145 value! This was my top value kit recommendation this year. I love trying new hair products, but even more so, love having travel-size hair products to keep packed in my travel bag. I bought this because I love the ColorWow Dream Coat and Chris McMillan Gloss Spray (both do similar things - make your hair frizz-free and shiny for days), and the Oribe Dry Texture spray (dry shampoo meets volumizer and hairspray).

• The fragrance samplers are the best deal. Rebecca loves fragrance now, and I bought this one for her for Easter. She gets to try out all the minis and then redeem the voucher for a full-size version of the one she likes the best.

• Travel-size skincare favorites - I love minis of skincare favorites because I hate decanting them for travel. Innbeauty offers exclusive kits at Sephora, perfect for trying out the brand or for travel sizes. This kit contains our three favorites from the brand. I also love the Sophie Pavitt acne system, and this kit is perfect for travel or to try out the brand.

Makeup Favorites

Sarah’s Faves

I posted two reels yesterday of a get-ready-with-me, and they are pretty close to what I have been regularly using lately. One of my top recommendations for the sale has already sold out, but it is worth adding to the wait list to be notified when it is back in stock. It is the best setting spray for blurring (like Paris filter in a bottle!) that I have ever used. You can even use it on bare skin!

This one is a little more formal ( I ended up doing an easy smoky eye), but I still use a tinted moisturizer. I cover some of my most frequently asked questions in the video- how I apply color corrector and concealer to help cover dark circles, so it does not crease, my favorite concealer brush (not at Sephora, but on sale at Nordstrom), my eyeliner trick, and my pink lip! Shop everything used in the video here.

This one features one of my favorite everyday sunscreen combos, which I started testing while in Cabo for a girls’ trip. I wanted to look pretty on the beach without using too much makeup. I had the Ciele SPF Primer from last year and used that under their SPF skin tint and LOVED the finish. Plus, no sunburn. I ended up using it every day when we went to Universal last month, no burn. And then used it when we went to an outdoor event in LA last week - again, no burn. Shop everything in the video here.

I ended up loving the SPF tint so much, I bought the cream blush to try, too. Why not use something to give more sun protection? I also love the brand’s brushes — this blush brush is the best one I have tried for powder blushes!

Last but not least, this Sephora exclusive brand, REFY, makes my favorite brow product. You will see it in both reels above, but I love how well it shapes my brows while still letting them be either fluffy or laminated. I love that the cap comes off to reveal a brow comb and brush. They also make a mini if you want to try it out!

Missy’s Faves

Missy doesn’t love shopping for makeup as much as I do, so she usually sticks to the same things. However, she has really been liking this eyeshadow palette for eyeshadow looks (as seen above).

This sheer, moisturizing lipstick is often out of stock, but it is back and one of Missy’s favorites for everyday use. The shade tickled pink leaves behind a sheer wash of pink and moisture.

An annual pick she can’t quit for the best glow – alone or under or on top of foundation- very versatile. I use shade 4N. Sarah uses shade 3, which is a shade darker than her current shade. Same with my shade.

I came back to this blush palette because I love it. It’s vibrant, and the cream + powder combo makes it last all day. Lately, I have been using She’s That Girl the most. It lasts all day for me, too!

A new favorite is this eyeliner from Sarah Creal. When you first apply it, it can smudge (if you want that look), but after about 30 seconds, it dries down and won’t budge. I love the color variety, too —for a more dramatic look—Rich Cocoa. For an everyday look - Taupe.

Makeup brushes/applicators

Speaking of makeup favorites, these are some of our favorite makeup brushes/applicators that are only available at Sephora:

• This Makeup by Mario brush. I love to use it for all things cream - cream blush, bronzer, and foundation. I think it is my most-used brush. I tried the dupes, and this one still reigns supreme for me.

• I love this makeup sponge. Nothing applies foundation as well as a sponge for me. I love this one because the surface area gets so much bigger when damp, but it can also be used dry.

• This brush shampoo - if my brushes need a deep clean, I always come back to this solid soap brush cleaner. It is the best one for me!

Hair Favorites

• K18 AirWash - See above reel. Expensive, but it lasts a LONG time. It is not like other dry shampoos, where the more you apply, the better. You really need to start with just 1 pump per section (after shaking REALLY well), then add more as needed. And you HAVE TO SHAKE. You can buy a small size to start out.

  • I restocked their oil. My first bottle was gifted from the Amazon conference we went to. I didn’t think much of it, but I really noticed a difference when I used it on my extensions. It is concentrated, so you only need a little bit. I have almost had my tape in extensions 2 years and my stylists can’t believe it. I credit it to using this oil on them for a year, and, of course, I still use the K18 restorative mask consistently.

• Chris McMillan Hair Minis - I saw Nicole Hughes post about the Chris McMillan Glassy Smooth Blowdry spray (brazilian blowout-like) being better than the ColorWow Dreamcoat via a side-by-side comparison, and I was impressed! Travel hair products are the most annoying to buy, so I bought the hair minis in August and love them all! The hairspray is fantastic! And it comes with a texture spray that doubles as a volumizer. And they all smell great.

• Pureology Strengthcure Repairing Conditioner – I bought this conditioner last year, for some reason, when it was on sale. I did not expect much, BUT OH MY GOSH. This is the best conditioner I have used. It is pricey, but it conditions like a mask without weighing down hair. You can tell as soon as you wash it out that your hair will be silky soft.

• Missy’s pick: My investment pick (SHE IS EXPENSIVE), but I am having the best hair of my life since purchasing this 2x Coanda Dyson AirWrap. Let me preface by saying, I don’t think everyone needs this. But if you have a lot of thick hair (mine is like all fake hair at this point)1, it is a great all-in-one system. I was sick of packing five tools whenever I traveled, so when it was released, I paid full price to buy it for “research purposes.” The dryer alone is closer in power to the Supersonic hairdryer, and it comes with an Air Straight attachment (which works similarly to the standalone tool), a round brush, and two curl sizes—and the curl stays all day! I told Sarah that my hair was almost too big (not really, though, I have never had volume like this)

Skincare Favorites

I use a mix of skincare brands, and until recently, most of them weren’t at Sephora. Below is a mix of mine and Missy’s favorites:

Acne

• Underground pimple favorite. This is also cheaper on Amazon right now, so I would buy it there. It is a powder that turns into a cream once it is rubbed in. Also, heads up. If you like The Ordinary, it appears to be 23% off on Amazon?

• My favorite acne spot treatment after it has broken ground. It helps reduce redness and inflammation, while also addressing reducing the severity of the pimple.

  • Same brand- I am floored by these exfoliating pads. I received them in PR and used them on an ingrown hair, and they worked SO fast to reduce it.

• I love these pimple patches. I just saw they are 26% off on Amazon, though, so buy there. They do not budge and draw everything out.

• Acne-safe moisturizer. I love Experiment and am so glad they carry it at Sephora now. I have been an avid user of the brand for years, first the Super Saturated Serum and now the Molecular Mesh, a lightweight but powerful moisturizer! And their lip balm is amazing for daytime!

• I started using these last month after a post-acne mark would not fade. I just apply at night before the rest of my skincare, and they have helped reduce the hyperpigmentation. I started using it at the tail end of all the pimples because it prevents scars from forming.

Sunscreen

A lot of my favorite everyday sunscreens (like Supergoop Play) end up going on steeper discount in May. However, I love some of the portable sunscreen options that are exclusive to Sephora:

• I restocked this fine mist SPF that I originally received in a PR mailer last summer. I loved it for reapplication because it’s easy and it feels so refreshing. I will say it should not be your only source of reapplication unless you are really spraying it on.

  • I usually use this Shiseido stick for reapplication because you can reapply without bothering your makeup. Now I use them both!

• I love having portable sunscreen options, and this one is great to carry around for face - it is flat and small, so it fits in any-sized bag!

• My favorite everyday face sunscreen. Gives a little glow, and even though it is sheer coverage, it helps even skin tone!

Skin and Body Care

• I love this hand cream, specifically in the “Hold” fragrance. This brand rarely goes on sale, minus a 10% discount around Memorial Day, so it is a great time to buy. It comes in a cute, aesthetically pleasing container you can keep on your nightstand, and it also doubles as a ring holder. It is moisturizing while also providing the anti-aging benefits of retinol. While I love the smell of the hand cream, you can refill it with any hand cream afterward or buy the refill.

• Dr. Idriss Lip Peel – A chemical exfoliator for your lips that is easy to apply. I have been using it since February, and my lips are the softest they have ever been, and I think some of the sun damage on my lips is lighter. I roll it on every night before bed and then top it with a lip mask.

  • My favorite overnight lip masks are: Eadem Le Chouchou Exfoliating + Softening Peptide Lip Balm, Fenty Plush Puddin’ in Cherry (smells so good and lasts most of the night), and Revision Lip Replenisher ($$$, but very thick).

Happy shopping! Let me know if I missed anything and you need a recommendation in the comments!

I don’t know who these people are, but they are very generous and extremely persistent. So in the spirit of honoring my retail family, here are the actually good sales worth your time.

Fashion

• Madewell Insider Sale - 25% off through March 22.

  Sizes 00-24 in many styles, short and tall available

  • If we both had to pick what we love grabbing at Madewell when it is on sale - we would both say leather bags and leather goods, Sarah would add shoes (they have her size!) and I would add jeans. They have great options for curvy fit - it works well pear-shapes, hourglass, and a lot of apple shapes.

  • This new(er) style of braided tote is so cute and easy to wear. I love it paired with a scarf. Sarah loves this new green colorway - she has a few of these braided bags and keeps adding more to her collection.

  • This pair of jeans, I lived in all fall. Sarah picked out these for me to try on and I am LOVE. They didn’t have my size in blue denim but I ordered it. The green and cream are so cute though. I sized up because I wanted them a little baggier on the waist.

  • They also make great tees and button ups - I grabbed this ringer tee and this button up while on sale.

• Good American Friends & Family - 25% off

  Sizes 000-32, short and tall available

  • Sarah convinced me to try these Soft Tech jeans - made of the softest material and sooo stretchy and she was, unfortunately, very right. I have this exact color but it is limited in sizes so sharing another similar colorway. We both like different cuts - I think this Skate wide leg style looks great on curvier hips (size down, if between) and Sarah looks so cute in the bootcut and flares as she says they balance out an apple shape.

• J.Crew 30% off - swimsuits, cashmere wraps, and more.

  00-3X, short and tall available

  • This dress is not on sale, but the blue version sold out in most sizes within two days in the fall.

  • This dress is also not on sale but is a great price for an “inspired by” version of my favorite Doen mini dress, coverup, nightgown in one. The only packing light tip I have.

• Gap Friends & Family 40% Off (+ stacking code BEST)

  • Use code BEST to save extra 10% off the 40% off Friends & Family sale. Sarah and I are shocked they actually do include this viral Easy Pant in the sale this time. Similar to the more expensive La Ligne, The Row, or Reformation option. The best time to buy! Sarah has the navy and swears it is the best travel pant. They can be dressed up or down for work too. I think I am going to grab the brown or olive because it would be so cute with a SLT (slutty little top) for summer.

  • Maybe I should grab the white too for my bridal era (that I have not started, yet.) I have this poplin shirt too, and it is such a great deal right now.

• Spanx LTK Sale - 20% off Everything with code LTKSPANX

  • Always stocking up on Air Essentials when it is on sale, but they have some great new arrivals too. If you have been here for a while, you probably saw me wear the Spanx Air Essentials jumpsuit most of 2024, well it is back but in an even cuter style. I, of course, already ordered it.

• Abercrombie LTK Sale - 25% off everything with code AFLTK

  • And it currently stacks with existing 25% off dresses code, 50% off! And they restocked some colors of the set you all helped sell out! It is back in XXS-XXL. It does run large. Sarah also loves these pants. Their jeans are always a good pick for me, I love the Curve Love 90’s Loose (pictured in collection.)

• Banana Republic Friends & Family - 40% OFF

  00-18/20 in many styles

  • Only one of the handful of times a year that everything (almost) is 40% off. Sarah loves these jeans, she truly can’t stop talking about them. This sweater is also a top seller of ours because it is so soft but not too hot and not itchy and it just fits so well. A lot of our favorites sell quickly, so picking out a few new things we are browsing.

  • This linen mini dress is screaming vacation and Staud, but under $100. Also comes in a caftan version. This is such a great wedding guest dress option and the back is stunning. I have tried to avoid the CBK hype train but they have some of their staple, chic minimalist options that are great capsule pieces.

• Ann Taylor is 40% off everything + an extra 10% off

  00-18, petite available

  • These SANDALS!! Like SO cute. Sarah unfortunately paid full price for them (of course there would be a sale right afterwards) and they aren’t even in her size - she just has to try.

    • I love these trouser jeans I have the dark color and they are great for work. They make everyone’s butt look so good. They run true to size (a smidge big maybe,) but long - so if you are on the shorter side, grab the petite.

    • This wrap blouse is flattering on so many different body types. Another good work option The buckle is giving Gucci.

    • I also love a work dress that is figure-flattering but not too tight and actually long enough for the office/conferences. This one is a great option because you can wear a regular bra with it and it is in a great neutral blue.

    • Another cute option for work and one for work, or Easter.

• Nordstrom Rack - new markdowns on markdowns

  • Nike Air Max for under $50

  • Adidas Samba (we both love the men’s version because the tongue is more comfortable) extra markdowns

  • New Balance 327 is another favorite of Missy’s - under $80

Cupcakes & Cashmere - 20% off with code ICONS

Cupcakes & Cashmere is 20% off a lot of their already well-priced jewelry. Sarah almost always has a Cupcakes & Cashmere earring in her ear stack. Her favorites: The Blythe and The Elyse (both pictured above.)

Home

Brooklinen Friends & Family Sale - At least 20% off everything

Recently, all of the siblings in our family updated our beds and with that came updating our sheets. I ended up ordering the entire bedset (King was a new size to me,) from Brooklinen because truly there is no other sheet that feels as soft and lasts as long for me as the Luxe Sateen. Plus, you can save the 20% on top of the bundle discount price. I have washed them at least 25 times and they are still so sturdy. I love the Target sheets but I can’t get that many washes out of them without elastic failing a little. Truly worth the investment - no rips (they will replace if they do,) no elastic issues.

Also to note, Sarah says their towels are great too.

Goosebumps - Free Shipping with code SISTERFREESHIP

Sarah has been singing the praises of this brand for months - they make adult size blankets in the same style of their viral baby swaddle blankets (plus they still make baby PJs & blankets and adult PJs.) They are truly so smooth and soft and cooling.

I just got my first one last week and I already can’t sleep without it. It has a handy travel case too and it makes the best travel blanket. Next long flight I have - this will be coming with me.

Also, since we love the brand and they love you all - we have a free shipping code that goes through Monday, March 16. Use code SISTERFREESHIP for free shipping.

Beauty

ALERT! Milk Skin Tint is 50% off at Sephora

The skin tint Sarah and I are both obsessed with is 50% off for Ulta Beauty Days but Sephora is also matching the price and has free shipping (and even same day free delivery!) I keep coming back to this tint for a reason. I even prefer it over foundation in the summer.

I love how hydrating it is and it works for my combo/oily skin and Sarah’s dry skin. Medium coverage that feels like nothing on the skin. This is easily the best price of the year.

Nordstrom Beauty Sale - 15% off Ends March 15

Nordstrom has 15% off luxury beauty and that includes the favorite Dior Starglow, Sarah’s favorite cleansing balm (a rec,) and much more. We included all of our favorites here with detailed explanations on how we use them and why we love them.

That is all for now! Enjoy the rest of your weekend. As always, shop responsibly!

Every year, by January, I start planning my winter escape, knowing it is a privilege. But truthfully, I will do almost anything for a getaway. Ask Anders, who has rarely seen me shovel the sidewalk, clear the driveway, or even touch the snowblower, yet somehow watched me energetically dig my car out at 10 p.m. just to make it to the airport the next morning for our Cabo trip. I love to travel, I love the sun, and I love the version of myself that only seems to exist in warm weather.

Winter me is me, just in grayscale. But give me sunshine, 72°, and a light breeze, and suddenly I’m energetic, smiling ear-to-ear, thriving, and dressed in colors besides brown… My personality? Resortwear. My best outfits? Resortwear. My happy color palette? Resortwear. I do not “dress for the occasion,” the occasion dresses for me. Cabo, Spain, Las Vegas, or Margaritaville, Ft. Myers Beach are the same place if I’m in a matching set and an anklet. I have seasonal depression, but I also have seasonal activation. If there’s sun, I’m in. If there’s linen, I’m definitely in.

The group on the group trip

This is the sixth trip with our favorite group of “colleagues,” which is what we call the other content creators we met online who have become close friends1. What started as mutual Instagram DMing has turned into shared airport delays, business brainstorms, and hours-long yap sessions about everything from work to anxieties in very beautiful settings.

Every time we do this, we leave re-energized, mildly sunburned, hoarse from laughing, full of new ideas, and reminded of how much we love this strange little corner of the internet and the communities that make it feel real. Even when the world around us feels a little dark, this part feels bright.

Let’s get down to what we wore…

Night-out outfits, but for staying on the property

(because car rides make a lot of the group nauseous)

Cabo is actually a great city to explore, especially around the marina or over in San José del Cabo, which has a cool, artsy vibe. There are so many amazing restaurants, and we recommend getting out if you’re up for it.2 Our group wasn’t this time around. Between weather delays, kid logistics, and work obligations, this trip ended up being a little more resort-centric, which saved us some Dramamine and allowed us earlier bedtimes. 3

Day Outfits

Give us a matching set, a can’t-believe-you-all-sold-this-out coverup, a green smoothie, a beachside quesadilla, and a Cann Roadie4 (code:SISTER20 for 20% off), and we’re happy as clams.5

One of Sarah’s MVPs of the trip was these Reformation Satin Shorts. She really wanted them last year when everyone was wearing them, but they did not make them in extended sizes. AND NOW THEY DO. She has tried many of the dupes, but the drape of these really sets them apart. Still light enough to feel comfortable, but heavy enough not to constantly fall victim to the friction between my thighs. Pair with a button-down, longer button-down, sweater, or cardigan - an easy outfit.

My MVPs? I really wanted to embrace trying new brands and more color this trip. Andrea Iyamah is a really cool Black-owned, female led brand and I love how unique and colorful her pieces are. You can save 15% on your first order, too.

Things I wish I could have worn? I also really wish I would have had an occasion to wear this red dancing emoji dress which is giving Spain, but Sarah and I were too tired on our last night to really dress up. I am sad I didn’t have these Dolce Vita sandals (gifted, paid mention but I seriously love them!) because I love the subtle pop of color and they are the perfect height heel.

Accessories we packed and loved

ASOS is really a surprise standout in the accessories department.

Sarah and I both firmly believe in a colorful necklace to bring an outfit together, and she embraced that this trip.

Swim and Stuff

Sarah treats pool entry like a final-day only, almost ceremonial event. Meanwhile, as the only legitimate water sign in my family (Sarah is an imposter), I like to stay near or in the water at all times: reading, staring into the distance, watching for whales so I can notify everyone, or boat-jumping (denied this trip, much to Courtney and my disappointment). Anyway, I know a lot about swim and Sarah knows a lot about wearing swimwear to lounge - here are both of our picks.

Suit Brands we LOVE

• La Blanca up to size 22.
  Supportive. Flattering. They are relatively affordable, easy to grab on Amazon, and hold everything where you would like it.

  Sarah and I both have the tank style. She also has the off-shoulder one, and it is aggressively cute. Classic but not boring. Secure but not orthopedic.

• Stylest sizes 0-20
  Probably one of my (Missy) favorite swim discoveries in recent memory. These suits have built-in sculpting that makes you stand up straighter and reconsider your posture, while still being comfortable. They also double as bodysuits. I have the wide tank and thin tank suits in white, navy, and brown. I wear an XL and will say they can run a little small, so check the size chart. They also offer long torso options. Their matching sarongs and belts top off the cute fit. Investment, but worth it for a big trip. Our code SISTER15 will save you 15%.

• TA3 sizes 00-26, also cup-sized sizing

  The internet-famous corset swimwear brand, and honestly, the hype is not wrong. Built in corset back with real structure, adjustable lacing, and serious shaping power. It defines the waist and lifts the chest. They have long torso options. This is a great option if you want to really be able to snatch your waist. Lots of styles, but I love the Pammy in Long Torso. The skirts are great too, but size up in those. Otherwise, suits are true to size. Save 15% by signing up for texts.

• Left on Friday sizes 00-18, long torso available

  Swimwear that can double as activewear in compressive, not restrictive fabrics? Yes please. Their linen pants are truly perfect. They also have great rash guard options and colorways that complement eachother. They recently launched Big Boob Suits options, which is a big help. Their tops can run a bit small. Long torso designs available. Save $15 off your first order by signing up for emails or texts.

• J.Crew sizes 0-24, long torso available

  A classic. J.Crew makes great swimwear. Only problem, I find a suit I love, and they stop making it. So if you see something, buy it! I think their suits run true to size. They also have a lot of great long torso options. This bikini is a favorite, and I get so many compliments, and they finally brought it back. With a matching skirt(!!)

• Spanx up to 3x

  Spanx swimwear is for when you want structure. I do think they feel a bit compressive, so maybe not a lounge-around suit. The fabric has real hold, so it smooths and supports in a way that feels intentional rather than flimsy.

Other MVPs of the Trip

Cann Roadies. We all found the perfect ratio. For a day relaxing: 1 Naked roadie with a mocktail. If you have to go out that night: 1/2 Naked roadie with a cocktail for silly time with no chance of a hangover. We like the Naked Roadies best because they contain 5 mg of THC with no CBD. The other roadies are good, but often need more than one to feel effects, and then the CBD makes me tired. They are great for a nightcap, though. Code: SISTER20

Zbiotics. Love these pre-alcohol supplements. ZBiotics “breaks down an unwanted alcohol byproduct called acetaldehyde – the primary culprit behind rough mornings after drinking.” I don’t know about the science, but they take away my risk of a wine headache for me. Just take one before you start drinking.

Cheers - an OG favorite post-alcohol capsule that we rarely travel without. Take these before you go to bed for the night and you will much better in the morning. These are cheaper than Z Biotics, but it can be hard to remember to take them. I like to take both just in case.

Bonus story: how we secured a free beach cabana at an expensive resort without signing up for a timeshare pitch.

We were fully relaxed. Lying flat, aromatherapy towels over our eyes, listening to the ocean breeze, and enjoying the beachfront shoulder and foot massages (which we highly recommend, btw, if you find yourself at Las Ventanas.) It was quiet. Almost too quiet, I should have known.

Subscribe now

Then the wind picked up, and one of the umbrellas loudly toppled over. The masseuses tried to stop the umbrella from hitting us, but it was too late. We had no idea what was even happening; our eyes were covered with eucalyptus-scented towels. Courtney took the ribs of the umbrella to the face. Thankfully, she was completely fine, with no lasting damage to her stunning face.

I (Missy,) got the inches thick, solid wood umbrella post to my right boob and arm, which I can confirm is not an ideal landing spot, but also was a better spot than my left side or head, I guess. I immediately felt some pain, and I almost passed out (I have vasovagal syncope, which is another funny story for a different day). Vanessa was grazed just enough to be included in our collective trauma.

We all just lay there for a second, trying to process how quickly relaxation had turned into impact. The beach attendant then rushed over and asked if we were okay.

Courtney said yes, politely, after confirming everyone was okay.

Then she slowly added (with a grin,) “But we’d be more okay in a cabana.”

I immediately had a deep green bruise forming across my chest and arm. Traumatic, yes. Painful, kind of. But it resulted in a complimentary cabana day, and I would say we handled it bravely.

Ulta Pro Tips

1. When it is a general coupon, you can use it more than once - just have to check out multiple times.

2. Always, Always, Always ensure to check the Beauty Rewards tab to ensure you activate all of the bonus points offers - their points add up!

   

3. Always check out the “Today’s Deal” section, where they highlight some of the free gifts with purchase. You have to add these to the cart - they will not add automatically.

   

Ulta Top Ten Roundup

Let’s get down to business - these are the items that are not normally on sale and a 20% off discount is a good one! Use code 914833.

1. If you haven’t bought a Theraface Depuffing Wand yet, 20% off makes it the best price I have seen, except for Black Friday! What is great about this tool is that it is a portable heat-and-cold therapy wand. Yeah, it also depuffs, but it feels SO good for facial, head, neck, and shoulder pain. Truly, it seems so dumb until you try it!

2. Dior Forever Glow Star Filter - a multi-use complexion product. Not quite the coverage of a skin tint or foundation, but enough coverage and luminosity to look glowy. Use it alone, as a primer, add it to your foundation, or use it as a highlighter. It gives you that glowy “she is a natural supermodel” look. Because it has skincare ingredients in it, I find it never feels too heavy on the face, either. I will use shade 2 in the winter and then go a shade darker in the summer to shade 3.

3. I still love the Dior Multi-Use Foundation stick. It is so easy to use and great for travel because I can use it where I need it, use it as a concealer or use it for a full face of makeup. It is more matte than what I usually like to wear, but it never feels dry or uncomfortable. Glides on like BUTTER and delivers a blurred/airbrushed finish.

4. The best conditioner. Period. I tried this conditioner almost two years ago when it was on sale during an Ulta 21 Days of Beauty event, and have been hooked ever since. I still haven't found another conditioner (and I try A LOT of them) that delivers the silkiest feel as soon as you wash it out. It feels like you used a deep-conditioning mask, but without the weight that would weigh your hair down.

5. Nodpod Weighted Eye Mask

   This weighted eye mask was a top item on this year's Christmas wish list, and for good reason. It is a weighted eye mask. You can lay it over your eyes while sleeping, and it provides just enough pressure, or you can tie it in the back. Rebecca is obsessed with hers. I mainly use my Sleep Crown, but will sometimes use this eye mask if I want more pressure.

6. Nodpod Weighted Sleep Pod - I LOVE the feeling of a weighted blanket. However, I would always wake up with back pain (I am a side sleeper) and sweat-soaked pajamas from overheating. I bought one of these last year and love it. It is a weighted pod that is easy to place on top of the blanket you sleep with or for casual couch hangs. It gives just the right amount of weight for me without overheating or causing pain.

7. Natasha Denona Hy Glam Concealer is my go-to concealer. It can be used anywhere on your face, it’s matte without being too drying under the eyes, and applies evenly to resist creasing. I like to swipe it onto the backs of my hands, then rub my concealer brush into it, and then apply it to my undereyes. This helps prevent me from going overboard with my concealer and makes for the perfect airbrushed look. I also love using it when I don’t feel like wearing much makeup, but just want to cover up some redness or pimples. I use shade RN3.

8. I also love the Natasha Denona Hy Glam Foundation that came out last year. Medium coverage that is buildable. I find it to be a little more radiant (glowy) than the Dior foundation stick. It is radiant, yet blurring, and self-sets! It truly stays all day for me without caking or creasing.

   

9. These stress relief gummies also help with focus. We were sent these in PR, and I was feeling stressed and overwhelmed with work (this is not the hardest job, but it takes so much time) Missy opened these up and was like, “Wow, these are delicious.” I had to try, and I was surprised that they were indeed delicious, with no artificial sweet aftertaste. Even more surprising? In an hour, I had felt like I had taken some CBD or had a glass of wine. You know that feeling where your chest just feels lighter? That’s how I felt with these. AND then I was able to focus. No THC/CBD. Uses a rare plant ingredient, Zembrin, and is non-habit-forming. The results only get better the more you take them.

10. Ulta Beauty sets - I love a beauty set. It is a great way to try new products or just to have travel-sized minis to throw in your purse, gym bag, or travel bag. Ulta has so many different sets that are a great value, but even better value, 20% off! I am picking up a few for Rebecca’s Easter Basket.

Missy and I never just get a cold. Missy has lifelong chronic rhinosinusitis, and after a 2019 whooping cough case, her asthma decided to stick around permanently. I keep things balanced with a quarterly rotation of bronchitis and sinus infections, depending on the pollen count.

We are not a “drink water and push through” family. We are a pass-the-inhaler-and-double-check-the-pollen-count family. Our immune systems are fragile, but, at least our sick day logistics are extremely organized. We have a system.

Our Sick Day System

Four items everyone needs

First and foremost, we will start with the three items I would recommend always keeping on hand. Then we will get into the nitty-gritty details on how I use everything together when I have a cold.

Vicks Sinus Inhaler

You know that five-minute mark in a hot shower when you can suddenly breathe and feel like a new person? That feeling. But portable. Easy. Add water1. Let it heat up. Press the soft mask to your face. Instant steam for your nose, chest, and dramatic sick-girl feels (e.g. when you can’t remember what it is like to breathe out your nose and think about how you took it for granted.) You can use the Vicks pads to add the signature Vicks vapors to the steam, however, you do not need them for it to be effective.

If you are taking a shower, we LOVE these shower tabs that dissolve while you are showering and release vapors. They are stronger than Vicks VapoSteamers (and cheaper), but Vicks recently released a max-strength version of their shower tabs.

Nasal Irrigation

I started with canned saline.2 Then upgraded to a Squeeze Sinus Rinse. Thought I had peaked. Posted about how I loved it. Then everyone in my DMs bullied me into trying the Navage Nasal Irrigator.

They were right.

It’s battery-powered, mildly suctions, and deeply satisfying. Add a salt pod (they even make calming or invigorating saline pods,) to warm distilled water, turn it on, and it flushes everything through into a little waste container. Less mess. More payoff. Weird at first. Then addictive. I use it way more than sprays, and it actually clears things out.

Missy jumping in to add a note here, because apparently this was not common knowledge: you can flip the nasal piece around and reverse it. Game changer if you’re prone to one-sided congestion.

Heat and Cold Therapy

Nothing will ever top the CVS heating pad I bought in 2009, which was later recalled as a fire hazard. Now I rotate between a weighted neck-and-shoulder one, and a large back pad. They get properly hot, cover everything from shoulders to tailbone, and have an auto-shutoff so we can remain house-fire-safe.

TheraIce Headache cap (pictured) - I keep it in the fridge, and the compression, cold, and light-blocking are perfect for headaches. You can also warm it up in the microwave for 20 seconds, and then increase it by 10-second intervals for heat.

Theraface Depuffing Wand - We use this REGULARLY for sinus pain. It also has a cold setting for de-puffing, but this little wand gets hot! Like a portable heating pad for your face. From now until 2/28, you can get it for 20% off at Ulta using code 914833. It does require some glide to use, but I usually use after applying my moisturizer or you can use moisturizer in a stick.

Humidifiers

Rebecca has eczema, Missy has eczema and psoriasis, and I have dry skin so we are always checking our hygrometer to see the humidity in our rooms. We currently use Carepod humidifiers (ultrasonic) because they are the easiest to clean (full review +15% off here). I also bought this evaporative humidifier that was reviewed for Rebecca’s room, since she can just fill it with tap water, since it uses a filter. They both gave us the same results for how much they increased the room's humidity, so it just depends on what you are looking for!

OTC medicine favorites

Friendly reminder from two women who often try to self-diagnose via Google: we are not medical professionals. Please talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider before adding anything new, especially if you have existing conditions or take prescriptions.

1. Sudafed or Pseudoephedrine for stuffy noses

   Don’t buy the one you can get out on the regular shelf, it does nothing. You want the one behind the counter, the one where you have to show your ID. You do not need a prescription, but it is behind the pharmacy counter because people use it to make meth. Yeah, that version. It really does work. I like to stick to the 30 mg (red tablet) because it can make you feel wired and cause blood pressure spikes, the extended release version is a little less easy to predict.

   1. If you have to fly when you are congested, which for us is often, we will take two of these an hour before take off. Then, spray Afrin3 in your nostrils right before take off, and top it off by using these Ear Planes ear plugs to help with the ear pressure. Remember, it is all connected.

   2. Missy swears by breathing strips (nasal dilators) every night, but especially with congestion. She stumbled upon these magnetic nasal strips a few months ago and has not looked back. They dilate her nostrils better than anything else she has tried (Breathe-Right Strips are good in a pinch, though.) It comes with a bunch of different sizes for all nose shapes. If you have a deviated septum or you share a bed with a snorer - get these.

2. Mucinex or Guafinesin for productive coughs and congestion

   I HATED taking Robitussin when I was younger. I still cannot stand the smell of it without gagging. If you have heavy congestion, this helps thin it out as long as you are drinking plenty of fluids! Yes, you can get Mucinex D with Sudafed already in it, but I tend to avoid combination drugs because sometimes you only need one ingredient and not the other! Remember when taking this, increase your water intake - it helps the medication work more effectively.

3. Alka Seltzer Cold for general cold symptoms

   Missy swears by the one with aspirin (orange flavored) if you have a cold or sore throat. Something about the fizziness just works immediately. If you are taking this, avoid taking with any other NSAID (like Advil, Aleve, etc.) or decongestant to make sure you are not doubling up and using only a safe dosage.

4. Advil II for pain relief

   My favorite pain reliever because it mixes both Advil (swelling and inflammation) and Tylenol (blocks pain signal). While I know the generic has the same main ingredient, I can’t help that I prefer name-brand Advil. The enteric coating is better!

5. Biofreeze for topical pain relief

   I love the Biofreeze roll-on. It is especially effective for body aches and pains. I will even roll on to my temples when I have a migraine. They also have a mini stick version that is more portable and travel-friendly.

   1. If you suffer from migraines, I also love this portable mini roll-on. Smaller than a lip balm and great for rubbing on your temples!

Sick Day Side Effects

Chapped noses

Blowing your nose 400 times a day? Enter the new bane of your existence - the raw, chapped strip under your nose that somehow lasts longer than the cold.

If I’m makeup-free at home, I use saline wipes instead of tissues to help prevent irritation and soothe if it is already chapped. The Vick’s Lotion Tissues can also help.

I then layer on Avène Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream as the last step in my routine and reapply under my nose throughout the day. It works as a moisturizer and skin barrier, and it calms that burned, wind-chapped feeling. Also, elite on sunburns.

I have also been loving this moisturizer in a stick to apply to my face throughout the day for extra moisture without the greasiness.

Note: it can separate when it’s cold. Massage the tube first, or squeeze out any excess water.

Chapped Lips

Exfoliating my lips regularly has made the biggest difference for me. I use a roll-on lip peel, then layer a thick, occlusive lip mask on top. If your lips are already cracked, wait until they calm down before exfoliating. Since starting this routine, I almost never get dry, cracked lips.

For overnight, I use a super thick, sticky balm that actually stays put. It is pricey, but I only use it at night, and one tube lasts me a few months.

Dry Nasal Passages

When my nasal passages feel dry, I use a saline nasal gel to moisturize and prevent irritation. Dryness can also lead to bloody noses, so if your kid gets them often, these expanding nasal plugs with a clotting agent are worth having on hand.

Nausea

Rebecca has a fear of vomiting4, so we have these little bags stashed everywhere. After getting Norovirus three excruciating times last year, we try our best to reduce the risk of contamination. Also, did you know that Norovirus is not killed with hand sanitizer? You have to wash your hands to kill it. And you have to use diluted bleach sprays (or other sprays with Norovirus indications).

The ultimate order to knock out congestion

Whenever someone I know is too congested to sleep, I send them this order of things to help them feel enough relief for sleep as it helps me!

1. Vicks Vapo Sinus Inhaler (or shower) - lots of steam to loosen things up

2. Nasal Irrigation - clean out those nasal passages!

3. Afrin (do not use for more than 3 days in a row)

4. Nasal dilation

5. Humidifier

6. Sleep elevated

   1. I like to put one pillow behind a Euro pillow, then another pillow sitting up on top of the Euro pillow for a makeshift wedge that is comfortable enough for me to sleep upright all night.

I can’t not say this: with any infection, viral, fungal, or bacterial, there is always a risk of sepsis. It’s rare, but serious. Know the symptoms, trust your gut if something feels off, and tell someone if you’re sick, especially if you live alone.

And for the love of God, stay hydrated.

(and Missy, kind of.)