1. People are baffled when they find out I (willingly) stay at my parents’ whenever I’m back in Jersey—especially since I have my own place just minutes away. (As if that isn’t telling, I should add). But if you’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing my mother and father, or are picked up from the airport with a hot meal for the ride home (perfectly portioned stir-fried vegetables, tofu, rice, steamed buns, tortilla chips, dark chocolate, and homemade soy milk to account for any craving that might’ve surfaced in the past seven hours), you’ll understand just how lucky I am to be their daughter.
2. The older I get, the more I appreciate who they are, my parents. I can’t help but giggle or kick my feet when I get to witness moments of tenderness between them—even when they’re across the world from one another and just talking over Line. (My dad was recently in Taiwan by himself, only because he wanted to spare my mom of the in-law dramatics; else he would’ve had her come with him.) I love their love. I love that they’ve allowed me to see such incredible breadth and depth of love as partners and parents, both.
3. I’m spoiled for choice in L.A. when I have an entire fragrance wardrobe to rifle through. Traveling, especially for extended trips, forces me to edit. Extensive planning is in order: every outfit, mood, and date must be accounted for of course. Here’s what I ended up with this time:
Quite pleased, so far.
4. There was a brief moment where I nearly regretted getting the small Bottega Veneta Jodie instead of the teen—it felt too big—but after a year with the bag, it’s the ideal size for long days out (or if you feel compelled to carry a book or journal at all times). If you’re ready to take the leap, here’s one in excellent condition. Mine has been the perfect companion for trekking into the city, and flattens easily to fit into any carry-on.
5. Is anyone as enthralled with Louise Carmen notebooks on TikTok as I am? I’m ready to center a trip to Paris to create my own.
. . .
xx
Your turn. Thoughts?