A gorgeous cutting board that would make a great gift, Tiny Tetris, and three great picture frames
Plus, espadrilles that won't be ruined by rain
It’s been miserably raw and damp this week; a classic New England spring where the name of the game is layers, layers, layers, and ideally one layer is waterproof, another is wool, and the base layer is a tank top because you never know when you’ll suddenly be sweltering. A friend and I staffed a local road race this morning, and just as the announcer commented on how we were lucky it wasn’t snowing (it may have been sleeting …. there certainly was precipitation), my friend slipped me two hand warmers, and they were a tiny slice of bliss the entire blustery morning. I’ve written before about my competitor’s heart; how even in freezing weather, I love the energy of an early-morning race: the starting line, the finish line, the camaraderie, shared purpose, and togetherness. ✨
This week’s just trust me (gift link)
A. I have crystal clear memories of being enchanted by bleeding hearts in my mother’s garden, and a bleeding heart was the first plant I bought for my own garden. So I was totally enamored when I saw the sculptural work of artist Anamaria Morris, who makes these mobiles. Sadly, currently sold out! But I’m happy to know they exist.
B. I went down a frame rabbit hole and found this striped frame and these marbled mats.
C. This monochromatic frame would make a nice gift, too.
D. I’ve never seen this sort of walnut frame - it almost looks like a tray to me - but love the idea of highlighting a favorite Polaroid this way.
E. And, speaking of wood, my father gave me this cherry cutting board for Christmas, and it’s become one of my favorite things.
F. Soleil is a great independent store in Portland Maine, and one of my favorite places to click around and see what’s new.
G. My love of mesh pouches is unabated. This one, from Zara Home, lets you add custom text for $4. I’ve linked to a few Zara Home finds this week -it’s another of my favorite sites to click around and relax while I take in all the sights.
H. This leather “emergency bag” zippered pouch made me laugh.
I. More zippered goodness.
J. I ordered these washable espadrilles because I somehow always manage to wear espadrilles on a day when it rains (and have ruined a few pairs this way). Still, I had very low expectations given my prior experiences with the brand - but they look and feel really good! Which just goes to show you that it’s always worth trying. They fit true to size. The best part is that the wrap laces are removable (I never have patience for the wrap style!).
K. Some of my best memories are of my dad and me playing Tetris. An evergreen reminder that the best way to connect with your kids or the kids in your life is to simply ask to play with them whatever video game they are into. This Tiny Tetris! is irresistible.
L. You had me at “fluorescent constellations stickers”…
M. I have no need for a doorstop, but if I did, this one feels like fun.
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I occasionally include affiliate links - typically to products from Etsy, Ebay, 1st Dibs, Bookshop, and yes, sometimes, Amazon. Affiliate links are bolded so you know when I’ve used one. Our most consistent political power comes from exercising our values via our wallets. I’m always thinking about cost, accessibility, and the planet. It’s a work in progress.
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I played this Shut the box Game in Ben’s classroom on Grandparents and Special Friends day this week - a great math game for the 7 and 8 year old set!
I love to plan a party, and these Charcuterie Cups caught my eye as a tidy (and hygienic) solution.
I have freakishly wide hands - most bracelets without a hinge don’t fit over mine - but these bangles do fit and feel nicely substantial and chic. I tried one on as soon as I opened the package tonight and wandered around the house doing various bedtime routines.
The MIB article was riveting! Thanks for the share. I'm so intrigued by Shut the Box.
I loved the washable espadrilles!