book
The Song Of Achilles by Madeline Miller - Madeline Miller has a gift for bringing myth to life. Her story of Achilles through the eyes of Patroclus was heartbreaking and lovely.
The Blue Jay’s Dance by Louise Erdrich - A rich, lyrical memoir of early motherhood. Erdrich gives language to the experiences that are beyond words.
podcast
Armchair Expert: Lori Gottlieb - Lori Gottlieb is a therapist and writer who wrote “Maybe You Should Talk To Someone”. It’s one of my favorite books. I read it this time last year, sitting next to Lucy in the back seat of Jeff’s truck on our way to New Hampshire. It made the 16 hours fly by. This interview with Dax Shepard offers some great behind the scenes insight.
audiobook
Bittersweet by Shauna Niequist - First of all, I could listen to Shauna Niequist read her own stories over and over and over and never get tired of them. This book in particular speaks to me right now, the balance of bitter and sweet, joy and sorrow.
movie
Man On Fire - Jeff and I watched this the other night after having watched Extraction on Netflix. I hadn’t seen it in a long time, well before I had Lucy and it was like watching it for the first time. There were so many things I picked up on that I’d never noticed before and yeah, I UGLY CRIED.
TV Series
Outlander - This has been a kind of on and off again relationship. Someone had recommended the books to me and there’s just not enough time to read everything so I’ve been watching the show little by little. I’ve definitely skipped through a few particularly graphic scenes but I love historical fiction so I’ve really enjoyed it for the most part.
lucyism
Awkward slobbery toddler kisses. Playing with Jello on the front porch. Shared bubble baths. Scrunched up smiling toddler faces. The way she claps for herself after everything she does.
everyday luxury
Fresh flowers. I have really loved arranging fresh flowers and placing them around the house. They work wonders in making home feel brighter and more springy.
moments
Calling Jeff to find out where he was and how soon he’d be home and hearing him say he had just dropped off the signed contract for the lot where our new house is going to be built! It’s officially official! We’re moving!
Holding both joy and grief in the same moment with my book club, shedding a few happy and sad tears all at the same time.
Making a mess on the front porch with Lucy and a pan of raspberry jello.
Sitting in our neighbor’s living room, listening to her tell me how she prays in the morning.
Visiting family in Chicago.
song
Beyond (feat. Luke Combs) - Live - Leon Bridges, Luke Combs
Rattle (Live) - Elevation Worship
Don’t Stop Me Now - Queen
quote
“Writing is reflective and living is active— the two collide in the tumultuouse business of caring for babies” - Louise Erdrich, The Blue Jay’s Dance
trader joe’s product
Watermelon Facial Mist - I keep it in the fridge and spray it on my face after a long walk or workout.
Purchase
Fresh cut peonies!
recipe
Whole Roasted Chicken from vol. 2 of Magnolia Table