Schoolin’ Life

Hello friends! We have entered VIRGO SEASON, and as a Taurus sun, Virgo rising, (Leo moon, if you want to know), I’m happy to be in a grounded, earthy place and in my zone as someone who loves organization and learning. I am back in a routine, I recently bought a handheld steam cleaner so my home is sparkling, my calendars are color-coded, and quite frankly, you can’t tell me a gosh darn thing right now. I’ve got new pens, some blank notebooks and the vibes of a new school year to urge me to get my life in order. 

To be honest, I’m in a challenging season. I’m on a hot streak of disappointing writing rejections, some people I love are facing health challenges I cannot fix, and the beginning of the school year is exhausting. I love a routine any time, but I lean on them extra hard when things feel tough. I can’t make people accept the writing I’ve worked so hard on; however, I can show up to the page every morning. I can’t change the big scary things, but I can keep my space tidy and make dinners that include a vegetable. I can go to sleep at a reasonable hour and stay off the internet when my brain needs a break. I can do the things that I know make life feel normal, and sometimes, that’s enough. 

I hope you’re finding ways to settle in to new routines and joys this month, friends. Go buy yourself a new notebook and some InkJoy Gel Pens, maybe some gold star stickers. It helps. 

On to the links!

• I taught myself to be likable. I really enjoyed this read (as well as the part two and part three, both for paid subscribers) because it goes beyond the typical “join a meet-up” advice and gives specific conversation tips and mindset shifts. If you’re looking to improve a friendship, consider this five-day friendship challenge — I’m taking it on, too! If you’re looking for advice for your romantic relationships, there’s also a round-up of the best relationship advice from experts. (Substack, NYT gift links)

• One of my favorite writers, Chelsea Bieker, wrote about short kings and rodent men having a moment (What say you, JTB readers? As a queer lady, I don’t have many opinions on what kind of men are having a moment) in advance of her brilliant book, Madwoman, that comes out on September 3rd. Pre-order it, request it at the library, get on it. You won’t want to miss it! (People, Bookshop)

• How to channel back-to-school energy, even as an adult. (The Everygirl)

• I own zero designer items, but I am mildly obsessed with this Clare V necklace that gives me art teacher vibes (so FUN!) and their Grande Fanny. This is why I simply cannot look at nice things. (Clare V)

• On the opposite end: the best drugstore beauty picks! Also, a history of beauty trends and products from the 1940s until today. (NYT gift links)

• I love reading people’s manifestos, and this list of design manifestos is great for a random hit of inspiration when you need it. (designmanifestos.org)  

• If you, like me, are forever trying to figure out how to have a better relationship with your phone, this list has some good ideas. If only I could force myself to actually implement these ideas. (Self)

• It’s almost September, which means it’s time for Lemon Curd and Plum Cake. My favorite cake of the year. (Joy The Baker)

• If I can’t be reincarnated as one of Oprah’s dogs, I would absolutely settle for being an art dog. (Vogue)

• Who doesn’t love a great compliment? Here’s how to give a good one. (The Atlantic, gift link)

• Book smarts are great, but you’re only as smart as your emotions. (NYT gift link)

• Important during this election season: how to read political news the right way according to misinformation experts. (Glamour)

• I’ve become a huge fan of Trader Joe’s Pancake Bread but I’ve been having a hard time finding it lately. Thankfully, these Maple Syrup Pancake Muffins are even better. (Joy The Baker)

• What you need to host, according to hostesses. (The Cut)

• How to build your confidence and turn down the negative voice in your head. (Self)

• As a Taurus, I simply reject spontaneity as a concept (I know that Editor Abby will hear me on this one), but if you want to be spontaneous instead of making plans weeks in advance so I can Google the menu and figure out my outfit, here’s some tips. They’re none of my business, of course. (Time) (Editors note: Amy is incredibly correct, spontaneity makes me dangerously gassy)

• I enjoyed this list of ways to get things done, especially when you don’t feel like it. I can attest to the power of a timer — especially a visual one. I have this little cutie and it makes me happy. (Substack, Amazon)

• I loved the piece Joy shared last week about friend breakups and how painful they are, and this piece talks about navigating those friendship breakups online when the person inevitably disappears from your grid. Honestly, as both a certified Nosy Lady and expert internet sleuth, if I ever endure some sort of friendship breakup ever again, I will just put the whole mess in the comments and save everyone the work. (Bustle)