post christmas reflections and today's news
Hello. How was your Christmas?
What did you have to eat on Christmas morning? And for dinner?
One of my favorite Christmas morning traditions is eating cinnamon rolls. Every year I bake them from scratch- a tedious project, but worth the effort. A warm cinnamon roll fresh out of the oven, hot coffee, vince guaraldi trio’s Charlie Brown Christmas album playing in the background, a magazine or newspaper for light reading, and good company. What more could you ask for?Â
Christmas in New York City is magical, however, the days leading up to it are juxtaposed by the inundation of tourists. There’s an uncanny chaos compared to the typical hustle and bustle before the start of holiday season. This year, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day felt calmer in the city. It felt special and intimate and magical. I’m someone who thoroughly enjoys the clouds, rain, and cold weather, so naturally, I was thrilled to wake up to gray skies on both occasions. The sky felt cozy and it matched our holiday atmosphere at home- hot coffee, warm cinnamon rolls, and all.Â
I braved the Bryant Park Christmas market (regrettably) in search of a hat I saw earlier this month, but the vendor was closed. At least there were donuts. I came home and watched one of my favorite films, Metropolitan, and then walked to Bemelmans to spend the early evening listening to the live Christmas piano music. And then came home to eat a delicious and festive dinner.
Here’s what was on our dinner menu: wild mushroom and vegetable souffle, garlic mashed potatoes, roasted yams with a balsamic glaze, honey glazed roasted carrots with thyme, green beans almondine, and parker house rolls with salted butter and jam.Â
Let me tell you about the assortment of desserts: bread pudding with vanilla bean anglaise, panetonne, an array of sugar cookies, gingerbread cookies, linzer cookies, and russian tea cookies, and pie- apple, sweet potato, maple pecan, chocolate black bottom, and wild blueberry. I did not consume all of this, but if my stomach would allow me to, I would have. My favorite desserts was the bread pudding. The gingerbread cookies were delightful, and I ate pie (my weakness). Pecan is a bit too sweet for me, but the blueberry (though not in season) was delicious. The sweet potato was also divine.Â
Did you get everything you wanted this year?Â
I’m the type of person who would rather receive an experience instead of a physical thing as a gift. So I can tell you with confidence that this ended up being one of the loveliest Christmases I’ve had in a long time.Â
I did gift myself a couple of things selfishly and I hope you did, too. One of them being two candles from Diptyque. I’ve wanted this one for a long time and I burned this one on Chirstmas Eve and it was so delicious smelling- perfect for Christmas. I also got this fragrance I mentioned in a previous newsletter. Fragrance is a powerful memory trigger for me so there is nothing I love more than to match a scent with a sweet moment.Â
Lastly, I would like you all to know that it is perfectly acceptable, in fact, encouraged, to eat christmas cookies (or pie) for breakfast on December 26… and 27th, 28th, and dare I say, the 29th. You can dip them in coffee, too <3
I’m going to share some of my favorite moments then we’ll get into today’s news.Â
News:
-An American Girlhood in the Ozempic Era
The article tells the story of Maggie Ervie, a 15-year-old from Marceline, Missouri, who has faced lifelong struggles with obesity and societal judgment about her body. It explores the complexities of obesity treatment in children, including medication, bariatric surgery, and the psychological impact of these treatments. The piece also delves into societal attitudes towards obesity, the fat-acceptance movement, and the challenges of navigating self-identity and peer relationships as a teenager dealing with weight issues.
-The Unbearable Allure Of Cringe
The article explores the phenomenon of cringe in TV shows, movies, and viral videos. It delves into how cringe-inducing content, often seen negatively, can actually help viewers understand themselves and others better. The study cited in the article uses collaborative autoethnography to analyze reactions to "Indian Matchmaking" on Netflix. It finds that cringe can be therapeutic, making viewers recognize parts of themselves they see as undesirable, and can also reveal biases and judgments, highlighting cultural differences. The article suggests that cringe can be more than just uncomfortable entertainment; it can foster self-reflection and understanding.
-The Best Way To Comfort Someone When They’re Sad
Research suggests that one of the most effective ways to comfort someone is through conversation, as human brains are highly responsive to social feedback, using it to adjust behaviors and emotions. While validation of feelings is often most comforting, other strategies like offering perspective or problem-solving can also be beneficial, highlighting that different approaches cater to different emotional needs and situations.
-Dancing Through The Snack Aisle
A New York City Ballet dancer and CEO of her wellness snack company, Get Golden. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at her dual career, highlighting the challenges and rewards of balancing professional ballet with entrepreneurship, and underscores her commitment to holistic health and community-building through her brand. This story illustrates the dynamic blend of artistry and business acumen, reflecting a modern approach to pursuing multiple passions.
-In An 18th-Century Tavern, A Different Kind Of Holiday Market
The article describes the Stissing House's inaugural craft feast, a holiday market in early December, co-hosted by Deborah Needleman and Clare de Boer. It featured a community of artisans showcasing their crafts in the 1782 Dutch Colonial building. The event highlighted traditional and modern crafts, including basket-weaving, ceramics, fashion, and textile arts, emphasizing the artisans' connection to nature and traditional practices. The day ended with a communal dinner, celebrating the new connections and the spirit of community among the participants.Â
I’ve never been upstate, but when I do (hopefully soon), This is the first place I’m going.Â
-Leighton Meester And Adam Brody Are Ready For Exmas
The Interview Magazine article features a candid conversation between Leighton Meester and Adam Brody as they discuss their new film "EXmas" and their personal and professional lives. The discussion reveals their chemistry and mutual respect, offering insights into their approach to acting, their family life, and how they balance their careers with their personal relationship. The article provides a unique, intimate glimpse into the lives of the celebrity couple, highlighting their down-to-earth nature and shared experiences in the industry.
The introduction of The Satanic Temple's After School Satan Club in a Memphis elementary school has ignited controversy, highlighting tensions around religious rights, secularism, and educational programming in the US.
-On Substack, A Vibrant Fashion Community Is Burgeoning — In 2024, It’s Likely To Explode
Substack's fashion community is experiencing a significant upswing, with a thriving group of active members discussing everything from styling tips to shopping regrets. Megan Strachan, the founder of Dorsey jewelry, has gained popularity with her Substack, "What I Put On Today," attracting over 8,000 subscribers who engage in vibrant discussions. These communities are becoming a supportive space for sharing and advice, often surpassing platforms like Instagram in personal engagement. The trend reflects a broader movement in the digital world, where niche communities find value in shared interests and direct communication, fostering a unique sense of belonging and interaction among members.
Phoebe Cheong and Jude Andam have started a tradition of meeting for tea instead of coffee or lunch, preferring the formal and special experience offered at places like Lady Mendl’s Tea Salon in Manhattan. This growing interest in elaborate afternoon tea services, a tradition with roots in the 1840s English gentry, is seen as a way for people to slow down, unplug, and engage in meaningful conversation in today's fast-paced and often uncivil world. Amidst the popularity of these tea ceremonies, venues like Brooklyn High Low, Rose Tree Cottage, and Floating Mountain Tea House are offering unique and serene environments, allowing patrons to connect, reflect, and enjoy the ritual and presence of afternoon tea.
That’s all for today.
Bye <3
Don’t be shy- Drop the cinnamon roll recipe!