Happy Saturday! I have thoughts, so let’s get right to it. First up, I’m nine books into the year and just picked up my 10th: Wellness by Nathan Hill. I’m liking it so far, but for the final star rating, you’ll have to check my Goodreads. One thing I do know? My next read is our book club pick, The Three Lives of Catie Kay by Kate Fagan. Our track record with book choices is… let’s just say inconsistent, but here’s to starting 2025 on a good note. Fingers crossed!
Although I’m an avid reader, I actually took a step back this week—and for a good reason. On Wednesday, Lulu had her annual doctor’s appointment. If you didn’t know, when she was just six months old, she was hospitalized while I was on a trip to India. We later found out she was born with severe kidney reflux. When she was two, she had major surgery to correct it, and ever since, we’ve been doing urology check-ups every six months.
But this Wednesday? We got the best news—Lulu is officially cleared and no longer needs follow-ups! In full transparency, this feels like a massive weight lifted off our shoulders. Knowing we can finally close this chapter has truly made my whole week. 💛
In the spirit of good news, I was at dinner Thursday night when the phrase “addition by subtraction” came up. Basically the idea that sometimes, taking something away can actually lead to a better outcome. The second I heard it, it was like a lightbulb went off—because wow, yes. Even something as small as removing one bad apple from a basket can help an entire orchard thrive.I hope this idea sticks with you the way it did for me—it’s definitely something to keep in mind when it comes to friendships, broken processes, sports, work environments, and so much more.
I am ending the week on a high note, and next week is looking even better! Here’s a little clue about what’s ahead, starting with this Magic Cloth Makeup Bag. If you caught my stories, you know Poppy and I were shook. Just place your products in the center, fold it up, and boom—instant travel bag. Still not over it!
Shop it here
Another clue? Poppy & Lulu’s latest obsession—becoming mini tour guides before we even step out the door. They’ve been stockpiling fun facts and eagerly sharing their learnings. At this rate, I might just let them lead the way! Watching their curiosity take off makes my heart so happy—especially since it means I get to learn a thing or two along the way.
Can’t wait to share more—stay tuned on Instagram for real-time updates!
Before I wrap up, there’s something I need to address, especially right now. What’s happened in the past week is horrifying—seeing hostages who look like Holocaust survivors being released is heartbreaking. It’s terrifying to see someone with such a big platform selling a swastika shirt, and no one taking action. It’s disappointing. The only ones speaking out are Jews. Never again is now, and we need you to stand up and fight against anti-Semitism. We stand loud and proud for everyone else, and it’s time you do the same.
If you made it to the end of this post, thank you for your support and love. Until next week.
xx Dana