Just sharing a few of the things on my mind, on my reading list, in my shopping cart, and occupying space on my “to see/do/try” list. It’s never ending.
- This article about how long it REALLY takes to caramelize onions
was refreshing. And — I learned what should probably be my mantra for 2019: the best time to caramelize onions is yesterday; in addition to the correct instructions for how long it takes to actually caramelize them. We all know I’m always looking to improve my kitchen skills.
- Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser with Bluetooth
Whenever I step foot in a spa, my first impression is ALWAYS related to smell. At my favorite Boston, MA spa spot, Bella Sante Day Spa, whatever they spray on the luxe, textured navy blue towels — a mix of lavender and vanilla — is basically akin to heaven. I haven’t been able to figure out how to replicate it in order to scent my sheets and towels, but I have figured out how to diffuse essential oil into my bedroom — duh — with an oil diffuser. After keeping an eye out for one FOR AGES, I finally found one that doubles as a Bluetooth speaker. The reviews were excellent, I waited a long time before purchase, so I knew I really wanted it, and in the end, I’m really happy with my purchase.
- Jade Face Rollers. Since early 2018, I’ve been willfully ignoring all discussion of these, but I finally caved. I’m listening. I may have even sent a link to my husband for this one from the company Beedewy with the subject line: HINT – Valentine’s Day Gift. Anyone who has read a beauty magazine knows that something cool applied to your face will depuff it. But over time, apparently these rollers help to train your muscles to relax which is a good thing. Unless you are cool with Botox. (As of yeT, I’m undecided. But check back with me when I turn 40). Now, I’m a huge proponent of beauty rituals, but I’m also a beauty minimalist, meaning that I’m moving my routine to a “less is more” approach for everything from skin care to day to day makeup. That said, the feedback about the positive effects is very persuasive, so — for just $30, I’m going to give it a try. I should just note, if you’re going to buy, know that “real jade” is a fortune and finding a roller that isn’t dyed glass takes some legwork. I’m comfortable with this middle of the road model from Beedewy and like that it’s polished with beeswax.
- Netflix’s The Assassination of Gianni Versace, has been both a thrill and achingly painful to watch. The former, not because of the murder/crazed killer aspect, (No! I abhor the genre of murder mystery in both film and TV), but because I appreciate the genius of fashion design and admit, I knew very little about the famous atelier of Versace. And the latter, because the horror of the 80’s and 90’s for the gay community colored my world from a young age. Even today, it still feels raw to me and my heart breaks that there was such stigma and lack of acceptance for the gay community.
As for the series, I’ve learned that Giovanni Versace was an absolutely beloved and devoted brother and absolutely adored to dress women — real women. I need to pickup a book on him to separate fact from [TV] fiction here, but if my instincts are correct, this small town Italian boy who experienced the death of his eldest sister while still a boy, and spent his days in his mother’s dress shop sounds like the makings of a truly decent human being. This, in turn, makes me want to take a closer look at the house of Versace. Also, note: It’s pronounced: [ver-sach-eh] not [-eeee]. I didn’t know it either.
- Currently listening to about 5 audio books and 4 different “favorite” podcasts, but for now, I’ll share my two favorites. I’ve been a longtime fan of writer Jennifer Weiner, and am loving her Hungry Heart, almost as much as I’m loving hearing HER actually read it aloud. The other favorite I don’t want to end is David Sedaris’ Calypso. If you haven’t read him, please — get to a bookstore. Go to Amazon. A library. Whatever you have to do. I should note, I think that having siblings you’re close in age to really amps up the appreciation for his writing since he was also one of four. I tend to just pick-up copies of whatever he writes to gift to my siblings each year because I know, A.) they will TOTALLY GET IT and, B) They will laugh/cry as he describes the politics of siblings and families.
Married with Style 