There's SO much good stuff right now. I know. It certainly isn't what you are hearing and seeing when you let the world in, but it's out there. Here are some of my favs. Thanks for being here and go team!

My Favorite Things Right Now

1. Create before you consume (as in media).

Marie Forleo taught me this one and it's been a game changer.

2. Swimsuits at Aerie.

Yup. Aerie (American Eagle’s sister store). If you need a swimsuit pronto and are feeling overwhelmed (or underwhelmed) by the choices out there, have some fun with the website and in store pick up. This is a stellar last minute option and the suits are super affordable and they hold up shockingly well for the pricepoint. Aerie is also your go-to for transparency in swimsuit shopping including a small but mighty selection of suits that cover your bum enough to swim with the kids. While you are there, dive into the super cozy loungewear options.

3. Kara Swisher with the Sway and Pivot Podcasts

I wouldn’t say that Kara Swisher is my favorite person, but man, do I dig her podcasts. Pivot is more focused on technology and is a solid way to get out of our local bubble on the subject. Prior to the Trump years, I was a major news junkie. I now work hard to balance my consumption and maintain my activism. Sway is a nice way to engage with interviews that are both substantial and not totally depressing.

4. Aritzia and Ballard Ave. for in person shopping

Between the supply chain issues and the residual effects of COVID on retail, shopping in person can be a real disappointment. If you are jonesing for an outing that ideally ends with some purchases, I vote for a trip to Aritzia at U Village (especially the modern suiting choices) or a journey down Ballard Ave. My beloved re-souL continues to impress. I’m also loving Standard Goods and if you are in Capitol Hill, Glasswing for ideal gift giving.

5. Big Little News

I have yet to hit Big Little News in person and yet I’ve become totally obsessed with this small shop bursting with a curated collection of magazines from around the world, champagne, beer, wine and stationary. The good people at Glasswing describe it as, “one part Bodega one part publication stand.” It’s an ideal way to spend an hour solo or with someone you adore. I’m loving the subscription service. Magazines and plants are two of my favorite gifts. You know that we get New York, The Atlantic and a rotation of fashion magazines to the house. An even better option is having the Big Little News team put together a collection of magazines for you each month.

6. Online shopping

I spend an extraordinary amount of time surfing the interwebs for the ideal pieces for clients. Here are some of my favorite online resources right now. Caio Lucia, Quince, Garmentory , The Reset, The Frankie Shop, Rouje Paris, Bona Drag, Trashy Diva, Reve En Vert- The Platform for Sustainable Living.

7. The Gifts of Imperfect Parenting and What Happened To You?

I know I’ve mentioned both of these books in the past, but I’ve been revisiting them. Brenee Brown never disappoints and her book on Imperfect Parenting is a quick read (especially when listening to it) with lots of wisdom. The section on guilt, “I did something bad” versus shame, “I am bad,” has been a guiding pillar in our parenting.

If you are interested in childhood trauma, whether yours or understanding the experiences of others, Oprah and Dr. Perry’s book, What Happened to You is extraordinarily enlightening. Fun Fact: Research shows that connectedness has the power to counterbalance childhood adversity.

8. Solar

You may remember that during COVID, we spent months working on our house. Part of the transformation was converting from oil to electric, adding solar panels and an electric car. Our house is 100% electric now and we never could have anticipated how quickly we would see the benefits of that investment. If you are interested in Solar, keep in mind that Congress passed an extension of the ITC, which provides a 26% tax credit for systems installed in 2020-2022, and 22% for systems installed in 2023. Right now, Solar installation is also sales tax exempt in Washington State. I’m no expert, so do your own research before you commit. We got ours through local female owned Solterra. Wherever you go, now is a good time to make the investment.

9. It’s time to wear White.

From dresses to shorts, pants, suits and sneakers, white is everything. It’s an instant upgrade to any outfit. Over the years I’ve had so many clients confess their fears of wearing white, especially when it comes to functionality. “I’ll ruin it.” Not to worry, my friend, that’s what bleach is for.

10. Mascara samplers

This one is from my long time client, Rebecca. She is as glamorous and polished as they come and has next level skin. I love to pick her brain about makeup and skincare when I see her. Last week, as we were creating a zillion new outfits for her from her existing pieces, I asked about her favorite mascara. She shared her mascara hack. Just purchase samples from Sephora or Ulta. Mascara tends to go bad so quickly that purchasing samples saves money and frustration. Love it.

11. Facial Oil

While we’re on the subject of skincare and cosmetics, I’m obsessed with facial oil. Remember, moisturizer hydrates your skin while oil traps the hydration. So, if you put on oil after your bath or shower, it’s much more successful than putting oil on randomly throughout the day. I’m getting lots of warm fuzzies from folks about my skin lately, which is delightful. I’m going to credit my favorite skincare line and the addition of facial oil. I just use those plus some concealer under my eyes, mascara primer, mascara and lipstick. Done and done.