An escapist TV thriller, colorful sneakers, and a charming amaryllis
plus garlic salt that makes everything taste better
The sunlight today is bright in that distinctive January way - bright to the point of blinding but still somehow cold. I’m on the train, headed to NYC for the day, wearing my winter uniform, swaddled up in an enormous down puffer, and cocooned in the delicious dislocation that traveling by train always gives me - I love that pulled-out-of-time feeling of being in motion. There are no dishes to do, no friends to call, no ‘shoulds’ weighing on me. I find the end of January to be the nadir of winter, a true psychological slog. I know, though, from long practice, that by Valentine’s Day, the light will have shifted inexorably towards spring, warmth, and growth. So, I’m taking it one day at a time, focusing on the little joys like being bundled up on the train.
What I Read (and Watched!)
The Day of the Jackal was just the show we needed this month - gripping, escapist, full of twists. It’s hard to find shows that all of us, including our teenager, can agree on, but we binged on this one in a few days. This article, The Rats in the Toilets, by Jackie Delamatre, made me laugh and shriek in horror, and both made me miss city living and appreciate my rural life. I also caught up on all the episodes of The Hard Fork that I’d missed - truly one of my favorite podcasts. If you don’t already listen - it’s about technology, but these days, technology touches every facet of our lives. The hosts are thoughtful, insightful, and funny. 10/10 recommend.
Design Notes
A. Amaryllis bulbs are a winter survial tool for me. My mom grew them every winter, and I can’t think of a season where I haven’t had at least one. Something about the crazy pace of their growth and the truly magnificent blooms in the doldrums of winter has always been a delight. I went crazy this fall and bought seven varieties. I knew I was in the right place when the copy on the blub wholesaler announced that the amaryllis flower is The Art & Soul of Winter. Well put, anonymous copywriter, well put! So far, my favorite has been this variety called “Doublet.”
B. It’s always fucking something! This post-it note says it all (and made me laugh and laugh).
C. These sneakers from Flower Mountain have been winking at me. That neon, those happy colors. Winter needs to end, and soon!
Kitchen Notes & Found Objects
D. This salt, which Tim originally found at Muji, is in constant use in our house. It enlivens everything from roast broccoli, to a bland stew, and even shakes up avocado toast and scrambled eggs. I order it in bulk—four at a time—from Kuze Fuku and Sons.
E. This salad bowl, found on Sezane, is a perfect size (many salad bowls are too big) and is currently full of lemons on my counter.
F. I have an absolute love of lasagna that transcends space and time. Whenever I make my mom’s lasagna, I am taken back to being a kid and feeling safe and loved. I’m planning a trip to see my parents next month and am going out on a special request. This lasagna pan means everyone gets an edge piece. I try to resist single-use kitchen things but I bought this in a moment of weakness, and I have absolutely no regrets. Lasagna = life.
Speaking of lasagna, I’ve been eyeing this recipe to try with the new pan. I’ve been cooking this meatloaf but as mini loaves from this recipe.
Sunday Daily Dose of Green
