Hey hi hello.
The first post, and hopefully not the last!
Welcome to The Simple Things, a newsletter inspired by one of my favorite Oscar Wilde quotes (“I’m a man of simple tastes. I’m always satisfied with the best.”).
Yes, there will be links to things I’ve bought (because capitalism), but I also hope to share posts and articles that have made me think. I’m always on the hunt to live better, whether that’s indulging in things that make me happy or learning more about other people’s experiences and stories. Everyone deserves to call their own shots and live a meaningful life, whatever that might mean for them or you.
Speaking of calling your own shots…
Did you watch the Oprah interview with Meghan and Harry? Wow. There were a lot of explosive revelations that came up, but one of the things that really broke my heart was the isolation and the lack of freedom Meghan felt. No matter who you are, whether you’re naturally cynical of any press or you think the royal family is absolutely ridiculous, you have to have to have some sympathy with someone who was silenced. Gilded cages are still cages. Haven’t we learned that firsthand from COVID lockdowns and quarantines?
Whether it was intentional or not, it was meaningful that the interview was released the day before International Women’s Day. So instead of being inundated by brands trying to remind me of how inclusive they are with *cute* headlines like “Girl power” and “Who run the world? Girls.”, I’ve got Meghan’s interview living rent-free in my mind. I’m thinking about how you can be perceived as sitting in a seat of power and still feel powerless. I’m thinking about how for every woman who fights for her right to live peaceably as herself, there are at least 10 women who don’t have that privilege or voice. Hearing Meghan tell her side of things in measured, thoughtful tones reminded me of how crippling it is to live in fear and how much work women have to do to make sure they’re believed. If that doesn’t light a fire under your ass, I don’t know what will.
Embrace your anger and your joy.
Heavy thoughts for a light Monday morning (and an inaugural post!). Sorry about that. If your anxiety operates like mine, it helps to divert stressful thoughts into some distractions, like interesting articles, movies, or window shopping online. It’s a great way to let that anger simmer on the stove like gumbo while you plot the demise of systemic racism and injustice.
Moxie, Netflix
I’ve been in a real comfort-viewing kick lately, rewatching GBBO, Ted Lasso, and Trying to get that sweet, sweet hit of dopamine. Real talk: Ted Lasso came out last year and I’ve already watched it 6 times. Some call it an obsession, I call it love. I digress. This Amy Poehler-directed film gives me Mean Girl vibes, but in a more earnest, Riot Grrrl way. It was hilarious and I now officially have a crush on Nico Hiraga, who is 8 years my junior. I got my dopamine fix. I wanted to be friends with all the characters. I got fired up to tear down the patriarchy.
Meyer Lemon Trees
There’s nothing more beautiful than a large bowl of fresh lemons on the kitchen counter. I’ve been wanting my own lemon tree for years, but have always been scared of killing it. I’ll let you know how it goes, but wish me luck.
Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff Squeak Ball
Scotty is a power chewer and this is the only ball I’ve found that can stand up to his chompers. Unlike previous balls we’ve tried, it’s a solid rubber ball that bounces and floats, plus the implanted squeaker has tolerable sound so Scotty can chew to his heart’s content.
Gloves in a Bottle
When I’m not writing, I work in the family wholesale home decor business which can wreak havoc on my hands. This is the most effective hand lotion I’ve ever come across. Doesn’t feel greasy and I don’t have to reapply as much as other lotions I’ve tried.
Jacobson Padded Sleeve and Chest Ironing Board
I love ironing. This totally unnecessary but extremely helpful accoutrement is perfect for getting shirt sleeves, shoulders, and chest areas perfectly wrinkle-free. It’s also handy for doing regular ironing when you don’t want to lug the regular board around (exhibit A: me, last night, watching the Meghan and Harry interview in my living room, with my wrinkly and freshly laundered dress shirts).
Hill House Home Nap Dresses
I have a few cardinal rules when it comes to buying new clothes and one of them is “Item should have pockets like poetry — deep enough to be meaningful.” These nap dresses are beloved by the internet and have no pockets! And yet, I own about 5 of them and have no regrets.
Ladyfingers Letterpress
One of my favorite stationery shops that’s also female and queer-owned. When I heard they were one of the 250 vendors with outstanding invoices unpaid by bankruptcy-filer Paper Source, I felt it was a sign from the universe to buy some adorable shit. If you need some stationery or want to support local business, there’s more vendors to support here.
Hexagonal Beeswax Taper Candles
I’m currently obsessed with these candles by Buyadalia but also cannot bring myself to light them. They’re a bit of a tight fit for my holders, but that’s what this candle sharpener is for.
Purposefully angrily yours,
G