Lately I’ve found myself clinging to the small pleasures — the things that make the news feel a little less chaotic and the mornings a little more civilized. Sometimes that’s a really good book, sometimes it’s a delicious homemade snack, and sometimes it’s… leather pants that make me feel slightly cooler than I actually am. We contain multitudes!
Between baking granola like I’m running a bed-and-breakfast and diving into a truly moving novel, I’ve also met some extraordinary women — including a marathoner/podcast host who’s tackling stage 4 cancer with a grace that humbled me. Add in a few comfort items (hello, cashmere throw and winter-proof moisturizer), and you’ve basically got a snapshot of my week.
So pull up a chair, grab a snack (preferably granola), and let me walk you through the things I can’t stop talking about, making, wearing, or recommending right now.
What I’m reading
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
If you’re looking for a book that slips under your skin and stays there, then The Correspondent by Virginia Evans is a great pick. Told entirely through letters, it tracks 73-year-old Sybil Van Antwerp — a retired lawyer and occasional contrarian — as she navigates vision loss, a past she barely grappled with, and a life of constant writing that masks as much as it reveals. Evans weaves themes of regret, aging, memory, and connection (even the ones we didn’t intend) into a narrative that feels gentle and fierce. It’s not just a novel, it’s a letter to the reader that asks the question, “What have your unsent letters been holding?”
What I’m making
I’m obsessed with making my own granola — it’s fun, delicious, and I love adding it to my Greek yogurt in the morning with a touch of maple syrup, blueberries, and sliced banana. My friend Ruth gave me this recipe (adapted from one by America’s Test Kitchen) and I went all out and splurged by adding macadamia nuts.
The only thing I did differently was heat the brown sugar, oil, and maple syrup first before mixing them with the other ingredients. I also bought this handy nut chopper from Amazon, because it saves time and is way less messy than DIY-ing the chopping. I also added some mini chocolate chips and dried cherries for a extra zip. One tip: My oven may be on the hot side, but check the granola after 35 minutes, so it doesn’t get too brown. It smells amazing while it’s baking, and I’m thinking about making a big batch for holiday gifts!
What I’m listening to
Ali Feller is a remarkable person who I connected with via a mutual friend. Luckily, the scheduling gods were on our side, because I got to meet her in person recently while she was in NYC for the marathon. She’s a six-time marathon runner, podcast host, and is currently battling stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. We recorded an episode of her podcast, which you can listen to right here.
I’d encourage you to check out more of Ali on the Run if you’re a runner — or just appreciate stories on resilience. Many of her guests are professional athletes, but she dives deep past the sport to explore what makes them tick. I loved meeting Ali and felt so inspired by her — everyone, please join me in sending her strength and positive vibes! She’s truly a force.
What I’m wearing
I love my J.Crew leather pants: They’re sleek and comfy and look a lot pricier than they are. As my producer Adriana would say, they definitely give off “rich mom vibes.” They’re one of my best fall purchases, and they look nice with a silk blouse and heels, or a casual sweater and loafers or boots. (And through November 23rd, you can get 15% off, by using the code EXCLUSIVE15)
What I’m using
Mongolian Cashmere Plaid Throw (Quince)
As the weather gets colder and the holiday season approaches, I love to cozy up on the couch with this Quince blanket — which is such a steal! Not only is it ultra-soft, it looks effortlessly chic draped over my couch while I’m not using it. This is one of those small luxuries that instantly makes a room feel cozier.
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Daily Skin Therapy Solid Lotion with Vitamin E
I don’t know about you, but my skin gets so dry during the winter, and I’m always on the hunt for quality lotion that doesn’t irritate it. And I finally found one! Palmer’s Cocoa Butter is a rich-feeling moisturizer and it’s super affordable. I slather it on before bed — it’s like tucking my skin in for the night with a warm, soothing hug.
