Sunday Scroll #88
Low-stress weeknight dinners, why high achievers get stuck, an American baker in Paris, + the perfect Mother's Day gift
Good morning, Happy Sunday—and Happy Maycember to all who celebrate!
I know this is a busy time of year. But I’m going to ask you something slightly corny right now: can we stop for a sec and think about how beautiful everything is outside? Blue skies. Blooming tulips and lilacs and roses. Green, green grass. Warm sun.
Tbh, I have a tendency to focus on everything that needs my attention to function (mom, business owner, wife, daughter—of course I do!). But sometimes I need to remind myself to shift my perspective. I don’t want to lose what’s good about the moment I’m in right now. And right now, I’m choosing to look at the blessings literally outside my window. It’s a small thing. But when I take a second to think about the beauty outside, I find the corners of my mouth turning up as my shoulders drop. I’ll take it.
Ready for some reads? Me, too!
How high-achievers find themselves stuck. Hi, hello, I’m a recovering perfectionist who needed to read this.
The secret to low-stress weeknight dinners. Some great advice from one of my Substack friends, Amelia Wilson! Loved my chat with her around the release of The Simplified Cookbook.
Six cheap (or free) ways to experience abundance. What are the things that make you feel like, I have everything I need right now, or help ground you in the moment? Talking to myself here—instead of clicking Add to Cart, I can experience abundance in the world around me. A good reminder.
Movement: the currency of freedom. The older I’ve gotten, the more I’ve realized that I don’t move my body to look good as much as I move it to feel good—and now the decision to exercise is way easier for me. I have another reason I move my body more now: because I want to keep moving as I age. If you have complicated thoughts around moving your body (and I know I do), you may find this essay helpful.
This American is taking us through her life as a baking student in Paris. Baking at this level is a skill I just don’t have, but I find it fascinating to read about someone who does! Worth a read alone for the photos of delicious croissants and breads and all kinds of beautiful things. But Maddie takes us into what it’s like to live in Paris too. So fun!
When a stray dog shows up in your yard. Brb, reaching for the Kleenex . . .
If you think you can hold a grudge, consider the crow. This is unhinged!! And also a weird fact you can share at parties. So, um, you’re welcome?
My selfie with Francis: the digital legacy of an approachable pope. A lovely remembrance of Pope Francis. May he rest well.
Some good news: this love story between a mailman and a dental practice made my heart grow three sizes. Most people are good, full stop.
Cannot stop watching these moments when people crossed the finish line at the Boston Marathon. My heart is so full!
Mackenzie-Childs Emerald Check Utensil Holder. Have you ever seen a cuter kitchen utensil holder? No, you have not.
This nap dress is the best nap dress. I said what I said. Plus it comes in all kinds of cute colors and patterns!
The Aura Frame. I was recently gifted a frame by Aura and it's been so fun sharing photos with my mom and dad! The twins' NYC birthday trip photos look amazing on it. If you're still hunting for a Mother's Day gift, this is perfect - and you can get $40 off the full price of a Carver Mat frame with code SUBSTACK. #AuraFramesPartner
‘Tis the season for gifting! Whether you’re shopping for moms, teachers, and or grads, let Simplified help you give her something she’ll adore.
And remember: everybody loves a gift card!
That’s all I’ve got for you today. Enjoy the spring sunshine, grab a bouquet of flowers, and have a wonderful week!
Such a good reminder to stop and see the beauty around you. Happy Sunday!
Everything IS beautiful right now! Thanks for the shout-out - isn't it lovely to have Substack friends?! ❤️