issue #71 - the fired up one

September 27, 2020

Well. That was a week.

It was a week of mourning. For some, it was a week of outrage. For others, it was a week of celebration.

Me? I mourned. I got pissed. I got talked off a ledge by some smart friends who view the world differently than I do. I shared everything I know about politics in a wide-ranging Ask Me Anything.

I will do everything in my power to get the candidates that best represent my values elected - in this election, and in every one from here on out.

I will take care of myself - meditate and move and continue taking my vitamins every day, and go to bed early more nights than I stay up late to work.

I will continue to talk to my kids about the news and politics and making voting a sacred, treasured tradition for our family.

I will continue to read fiction set in space because it makes me really happy. I might re-watch Away again, for that matter (catch my IG Live with my fellow space nerd Sonia van Meter).

And no matter what happens in this election, I will continue to do all of these things from here on out.

Politics is a practice, just like flossing. Those that engage and participate in it regularly are the ones who make the most impact. And it’s not about running for office or raising a ton of money, but about investing the time and energy to know what’s happening in your community, and fighting for the changes you believe in.

(And that also means getting off Twitter).

What we read and loved

Hitha

  • Hell And Other Destinations - Madeline Albright has been one of my role models for a while, and now I want to be her friend after listening to her funny, endearing memoir. Hell And Other Destinations focuses on Secretary Albright’s life after her time at State. While most of us have never served the nation as the top diplomat, almost all of us have been through major career transitions and the emotions that follow. Albright is no different and she speaks about the ups and downs of entrepreneurshi and getting back into shape after ‘eating for her country’. She also speaks candidly about the politics of the past 20 years and doesn’t hold her opinion back, which is refreshing. This was a joy to listen to during my many walks through the park this week (had to take advantage of the stunning weather), and I highly recommend it. Use code HITHA to get 2 free audiobook when you create a monthly membership on Libro.fm, and support your favorite independent bookstore in the process!

  • I also re-read the first two books in Mary Robinette Kowal’s Lady Astronaut series, and will pick up The Relentless Moon when I finish up some NetGalley ARCs that are being published this week. The fourth book’s publication date has yet to be announced, but I can’t wait to reunite with Elma and Nathaniel.

Erin

  • The Girl With The Louding Voice -I've read 30 books so far this year, and The Girl with the Louding Voice is definitely a stand-out favorite for me. I was surprised by so much while reading it - including the fact that it takes place in modern times. I highly recommend getting your hands on it.

LaToya

  • The Voting Booth is fun, unexpectedly deep, and an easy afternoon read. It took me 4 hours to finish during a hair appointment and when it was over I wanted to read a part 2 about Marva conquering the world.

HPN - I loved this book as well! Highly recommend the audiobook.

The top 5

All the smart reads

Monday

Tuesday (curated by Erin Robertson)

Wednesday

Thursday (curated by LaToya Lewis)

Friday

Things I Love This Week

  • This is the nighttime routine that is so damn relaxing, and I regret skipping it when I do. I take a full dropper of Equilibria extra strength oil, do a 10 or 20 minute restorative yoga flow on the Peloton app, get fully ready for bed, and listen to Headspace’s sleep music for as long as I read. I slip on the silk eye mask that came in my last Equilibria order (free with every order for the rest of September!), and fall asleep in a second. This routine helps me fall into a deep sleep, which has been touch and go lately.

  • If you’re new to CBD, I highly recommend starting with the Equilibria’s mint Brilliance Box and the bath bombs. You can get 15% off with code hitha, and you can schedule your dosage consultation once the order has been placed. CBD has been a game changer for me, and I’ve found Equilibria’s products the most effective out of any I’ve tried. I’m noticeably more even-tempered, sleep better, and the relief cream is a godsend for sore muscles.

  • While I’m going to wait to see Wonder Woman 1984 until it’s released on PVOD, I couldn’t resist the WW84 gold Reebok sneakers that are basically perfect. Do I need another pair of sneakers? Absolutely not. Did I get these anyway? Absolutely.

  • I made it to Glowbar last week for an overdue facial. They have incredible policies to keep everyone safe (temperature checks, sanitizer, masks/shields/gloves for the aestheticians, single-use towels). Moreover, my facialist did the impossible and got all the blackheads out of my nose and chin. She used a pore extractor to loosen the blackheads and pores before going in for manual extractions, and I quickly ordered myself this one to keep up the routine at home. I also got this Tatcha eye cream in softlight (a recommendation from Kristina Rudolfo), a new eyeliner, and restocked my favorite lip balm.

  • Since outdoor dining is now permanent in New York, I’m getting my outerwear game ready to continue supporting my favorite restaurants. These Sorels are heaven (warm, comfortable, easy to slip on and off), and I’m stalking Perfect Moment ski jackets to add to my winter wardrobe.

  • Erin - I'm currently obsessed with Jenny Rosenstrach's galette recipe that was on Cup Of Jo a few weeks ago, and have been making one almost every weekend. We're blessed with an abundance of extraordinary summer fruit in Napa Valley, and are often even gifted extra from friends and colleagues who have trees and bushes. This has been my go-to for when we've got more than we can eat in our kitchen.

  • LaToya - These handcrafted caramels are perfect. They taste like they were made in French Confectionery, are completely affordable (under $20), are huge so one is enough and they make a delightful present for various occasions. I have given them as a "just thinking of you" gift, a "that breakup is a sweet new beginning gift" and even a "I made it through this week" gift to myself. You will not regret them.

Looking for my favorite things? You can find them here.

If you like what I’m sending, please forward it with someone you love (or someone you don’t). Or both. Everyone could use some smart reads in their life.

xo, HPN

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