Welcome to the first Journal post of 2019! I didn’t intend to skip last week, but Michael and I were just having too much fun over the holidays and exploring Asheville, North Carolina.
How is the new year treating you so far? Do you feel different, or does it just feel like a continuation of your current trajectory?
Things definitely feel different over here with our move on the horizon. We’ve shed a lot of things in the past, and it’s forcing us to look even more closely at what we still have.
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This week I’ve been going through some clothing and our Christmas decorations to see what hasn’t been used lately. Some garments that have been stained beyond use will be heading off to be recycled, and excess holiday wrapping supplies have been brought to work to use in next year’s charity projects.
It was nice to have the first three days off this week to allow for time to get things done, but I definitely spent a little more time online than I intended (it’s just that there’s so much good stuff to share!). Here’s what I’ve been reading this week:
TRAVEL
The first plastic-free flight departed last weekend. Though travel is almost inherently wasteful (hello, jet fuel), I do believe these small steps will add up (I also shared a few tips for a more eco-friendly trip last year, if you’re curious).
Tipping hotel housekeeping is on the decline (and I’m the first to admit that I usually decline service and don’t always leave a tip); here’s a look at the industry, and what I feel is a really great solution.
This comic about celebrating the new year around the world made me chuckle.
The NYT 52 Places Traveler recaps her year on the move. Could you do it?
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FOOD
I noticed that my skin had cleared drastically toward the end of our trip to Europe, and though we were eating and drinking tons of “bad” things, I truly think my skin looked better because of the quality of the food. Here’s a scary look at what food additives are banned in Europe but still regularly used in the US.
I’m cookied-out for a little bit, but this Speculoos recipe may find its way into my oven at some point…
Here’s a round-up of predictions for the biggest food trends of 2019. I’m good with the “naturally occurring sugars” and “healthful kids meals” (but it’s okay, you can keep your insects). What tops your list, and what is a solid no?
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LIFE & HOME
I always find that reading articles about the things I want to do (such as save money, create less waste, buy clothing thoughtfully, etc.) helps me stay on course. Here are a few easy tips for reducing plastic usage in your home.
I love Chloe’s intentional 19 goals for 2019.
We may be in the midst of Dryanuary, but I stumbled on this Finnish concept this week and I can totally relate.
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STYLE
We are moving and I hope to close my Poshmark closet before then! Feel free to make an offer or a bundle – otherwise I plan on hauling what’s left to our campus’ thrift shop, where students can purchase anything in the store for $1. (And as a side note, lots of college campuses offer thrift shops or lending closets – they’re a great place to donate professional wear).
Sale alert! Dermstore is offering an additional 20% off of select brands with promo code “SILVER” (including some items that rarely go on sale, like the only micellar water I’ll ever buy and my favorite hair-drying towel) and Need Supply (now closed) is offering a 20% discount on already marked down items with promo code “GETALITTLE” (such as the ever-popular S’well bottles).
I’m curious about Cuyana’s new Body line coming out later this month; base layers are perhaps one thing I wouldn’t want to buy secondhand.
Things I bought this week
My wallet has stayed pretty firmly in my purse lately, and I would really like to approach my wardrobe additions this year very thoughtfully. I don’t want to commit to any sort of shopping ban (because I know I’ll balk and eventually binge), but I do want to really think clearly and carefully about items I add to my wardrobe. I also want to focus on adding second-hand pieces rather than new ones to my closet, which should help both the environment and my wallet. A few wardrobe wants this year are white denim, silk and merino base layers to wear under other tops and pants (to replace my Airism ones, which work and feel great on my skin but are starting to retain odor, eww), an oxblood top, a well-tailored white or blue button-down, and a classic trench to replace the one I own and love that does not fit anymore (and probably can’t really be tailored).
What type of garments will you only buy new? And where are your favorite places to shop secondhand?
Have a great weekend!
