January continues to be a million days long, and in an effort to better cope with the long winter, I’m trying to be more purposeful in noting the little moments of enjoyment that I experience along the way. I suppose it’s a form of gratitude, but I’m reluctant to call it that because I feel like the word has gotten muddled in recent years. Whatever it’s called, for me it’s a way of shifting my thinking about day-to-day life, which can sometimes feel muddled, too.
I thought it might be fun to share some of these things with you. The reason is two-fold. One, maybe you’ll find some enjoyment or goodness in these things, as well. And two, I hope it’s a source of connection between us. It allows you to learn a little more about who I am beyond what I take photos of, and, if you are inclined to comment, I can learn a little about you, too. (Respectful comments only, please. Let’s keep it kind.)
“Somebody Somewhere” (HBO)
One of the film and television critics that I follow on Twitter recently shared that they loved the new HBO show “Somebody Somewhere,” and we thought we’d give the pilot episode a shot. It was wonderful. It’s endearing and funny and sweet and little bit cynical, which is a recipe for greatness in my book. New episodes are released on Sundays, if you’re interested.
Rooms In The First House (Spotify)
Admittedly, I started following Anna Marie Tendler on Instagram after the news of her divorce from comedian John Mulaney hit the news—it was a shamefully gossipy/curiosity follow. And then I discovered what an interesting artist she is and have been impressed by her approach to creating imagery ever since. (I also really enjoy the little peeks we get into her Connecticut home.) She recently shared a Spotify playlist called Rooms in the First House, and when it took me from Phoebe Bridgers to The Smashing Pumpkins to Sam Cooke in the span of 15 minutes, I was hooked. It has been on repeat all week.
Acushnet River Antiques
My personal quest for more vintage layers in our home decor has resulted in a very healthy relationship with antique shops. I’m always looking for a new store in our area, and the brilliant Kim from Green Lion Designs recently told me about Acushnet River Antiques in New Bedford, Mass. I knew to trust her taste and made a bee-line for the shop. I’m so glad I did. It’s an endless maze of objects and curiosities, with a treasure or two to be found for a pretty great deal. Plus, it’s fun to photograph. Be sure to stop in if you’re ever in the area.
Rules of Civility (Amor Towles)
In the early days of the pandemic, I decided to read A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles and proceeded to absolutely devour it. Towles’ ability to immerse his readers in that small world of a Moscow hotel made larger than life by the rich characters that inhabit it was captivating. I have been meaning to pick up his earlier novel, Rules of Civility, ever since. I finally did last weekend and was once again swept up in Towles’ spellbinding storytelling. His books are the perfect dose of escapism, which we can all use these days, right?
London Fog Latte
I’ve been on a london fog latte kick ever since we visited Portsmouth over the holidays and La Maison Navarre served up the best version that I have ever had. If you aren’t familiar, the latte is brewed earl grey tea with steamed milk, flavored with vanilla syrup and, sometimes, lavender. I recently found the Harney & Sons Victorian London Fog tea blend at Foodlove Market and it’s now what I turn to when I need a warm drink on a cold January afternoon. 10/10, highly recommend.
What was it about this week that you enjoyed? -SH