Happy Friday. It was a snowy week in Vermont (no complaints here). It’s feeling very festive and cozy. I’m headed to NH to climb a mountain for my friend’s 40th (wish me luck). No Sunday Style column this week, but loads of winter/holiday outfit ideas coming the following. Can’t believe it’s December already! Lots of great links this week. Enjoy.
A quick note: if you enjoy my Substack, will you consider sharing with a friend? It’s a great (and free) way to support my work. Thank you!
Read. Watch. Listen.
On why deinfluencing isn’t real. “An internet where everything is built on scale, where each pixel of digital real estate is up for grabs by the highest bidder, is an internet where only influencers, billionaires, and scammers win out. It’s an internet that will continue to suck until it’s not worth using at all.” (Vox)
People left big cities in droves during the pandemic. Now many people are regretting the move. (Business Insider)
A short conversation with Alice Oswald. (McSweeney’s)
Five questions to ask your partner before you get married. (NPR)
“When my brother died, I assumed he’d find me from the other side. He found my son instead.” (The Cut)
I have to plug this book! I’m currently a member of Joy Sullivan’s writing community—not only is her Substack Necessary Salt great, she’s a most generous teacher and human. Her book of poems, Instructions for Traveling West, is available for preorder. Fans of Mary Oliver, Ellen Bass, Kate Baer will absolutely love her work if they haven’t read it already. -Caylin
Apparently getting matched with Burlington, Vermont is a trend in people’s Spotify wrap up results? (Business Insider)
Bleak news on the housing market if you’re not living in your forever home. (The Atlantic)
“In the 40 years since her death, the pioneering newscaster has become an Icarus-like parable, a woman who was punished for her outsize ambition. She was one of the most powerful names in news, until one disastrous broadcast tarnished her golden image. In an exclusive report, those closest to her speak out about what everyone got wrong about her life.” (Marie Claire)
Apparently, scheduling sex is a good idea. (Glamour)
How to make good decisions. (The Hyphen)
On “raising good humans” and performing “family” on social media. (The Cut)
Seven rules to being a good dinner guest. Because who doesn’t want to get invited back? (Cup of Jo)
Have you watched the Disney Pixar movie Elemental? I can’t watch it without crying. It’s one of my new favorites. -Jess
I’ve been in such a salad rut and this recipe with brussels sprouts, arugula, pomegranate and avocado looks delicious. -Jess (Gimme Some Oven)
How to protect your memory as you age (link used is a gift link). (The New York Times)
What happened when a journalist got rid of the internet in his house. (The Atlantic)
I’m excited because some of these are new to me. The best podcasts of 2023 according to the New Yorker. -Jess (The New Yorker)
Merriam Webster’s word of the year is, not surprising. (NPR)
Shop
If you’re looking for gift ideas, ABLE has gorgeous personalized handmade jewelry, ethically made at very reasonable prices. I love the letter necklace and the Mamuye tote which you can personalize (deadline for Christmas is 12/4). Use my code JAKGIFT30 for 30% off your order including my collection (ends 12/10)!
These organic cotton leggings are awesome and under $30 right now.
This Olio e Osso clear balm is saving my chapped lips.
I just got my holiday cards from Artifact Uprising and I love them. You don’t need a professional photo shoot to do holiday cards! I used a few phone pics and they came out great. Use code JESSANNKIRBY15 for 15% off.