Good morning you wonderful, twinkle-light tryers.
(I’m heading out early tomorrow morning, so I’m sending out this li’l baby a few days early)
I had a whole other idea about what I was going to write for this last newsletter of 2023, but then as I sat starting at the blinking cursor I caught a glimpse of myself as I reenacted that scene from Twilight: New Moon where Bella sits in that chair and stares out the window for several months as the world’s saddest song plays in the background.
And I don’t think I’m alone.
This year has - and continues to be - A LOT. And there’s something about the singular alchemy of December that seems to push every emotional button - from the sublime to the overwhelmed and everything in between. It’s honestly so mind-blowing how one month can have within it some of the most beautiful moments we’ll experience in our lifetimes, alongside these long stretches of pensive flatness as we can’t help but look back at the year that was.
I think what I wanted to reach through this newsletter and tell each and every one of you is that you’re not alone if you’re feeling the same way.
The ups alongside the downs… it’s okay.
The joy alongside the introspection… it’s okay.
The celebrations alongside the yearning for routine… it’s okay.
It’s okay.
You’re okay.
We’re okay.
Each month, I’ll gather:
🤩stuff to watch, read and listen to
🤝great follows on social media
🌈 music to soothe
🥑 good food and great places to eat and drink
🕯calming things
*****
🤩
I am OBSESSED with Lucy Worsley’s newest series about Agatha Christie. There are only three episodes, but they’re so good.
Shetland is BACK and I am LOVING the addition of Ashley Jensen as the lead detective. The season so far is so good.
You know I love a travel YouTube series, so when I found THIS one focusing on a young man who loves trains? Come on. I particularly loved his series taking trains through Canada, starting HERE.
There’s also a Christmas episode of Sister Boniface roaming around out there that was lovely AND Midsomer Murders is BACK with a new season.
There’s also a new Christmassy Vera episode, which feels like it shouldn’t really work but totally does
🤝
Follow Shohei Ohtani because oh look he’s a Dodger now - no, I’m not gloating, it’s just… okay, fine… maybe I’m gloating.
Follow Marco Zamora for brilliant design ideas and major interior design envy.
Follow River Cottage for cozy inn vibes with a dash of brilliant cooking and gardening tips.
🌈
🥑
I’m always trying to find good egg recipes, so when my niece told me about this steamed egg dish I couldn’t wait to try it. IT’S SO CUDDLY AND DELICIOUS. (also I utterly failed at making this the first time… dear lord it was CATASTROPHIC… so, just govern yourselves accordingly)
When I told my friend about my hunt for good egg recipes, she sent through THIS gem. She’s a much better cook than I am, so once again… govern yourselves accordingly.
🕯
I’m not going to be posting any links this month, because everything I bought was gifts for people who read this newsletter. I’ll do a big ole list in January with everything!
I enjoy this every month. Happy Holidays