I always love this poem from Rupi Kaur, a wonderful reminder that we must work to continue the progress and advancement of one another. I’ve been very fortunate in my life to have a community of strong, intellectual, independent, and compassionate women. My Mom was a lawyer (while raising 3 children), my maternal grandmother a psychologist who worked until the day she died (at 86), my Great Aunt a teacher who tutored me even after retirement, my paternal grandmother a nurse who raised seven children, my Aunts, cousins, best friends, all smart, powerful women. In my corporate job I worked on a team of all women, each one mentored me in different ways and I’m eternally grateful for that. I am also very fortunate to have a partner that is a feminist and sees me as an equal. I believe this community is a group of powerful women too. One that often gives me a boost when I need it most, that sends an email or a note saying “thank you” or “I support you” or “I’m with you” just because. A community of women that understands and values the contribution of women and the need for gender equality. I try to find a balance here, of talking about the more frivolous things like skincare products and the best jeans with more substantive things like having control over your reproductive health, managing your finances, and how to be an informed constituent. I think we can do both, and more importantly I think we should do both. There is power in having these discussions and putting it all on the table. If not now, when? And if not us, who? We have to be our own champions, not just for ourselves but for each other and for those who come after us. If there is one thing I have learned it is that you have to believe in yourself first. When you do that, you allow space for others to do the same. I finally had the chance to see RBG, the documentary about Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, which I can’t recommend enough. She is a true example of selfless sacrifice, and has worked her entire life to pave the way for others. So I want to leave you with something only she could so eloquently say, “Fight for the things you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.”
Happy International Women’s Day.
xx
If you’re looking for something to buy, try, read, share or pin, we’ve got you covered. Here’s the best of the week…
Jess (J) & Caylin (C)
This is great news! (Not sarcasm) Millenials are the therapy generation.
Kudos to Trader Joe’s for listening to customer feedback—they’re making some big changes at their stores.
Cute new tee style from Everlane, stone is a nice neutral for spring.
Would you guys rent home decor?
So sad to hear about Luke Perry, but he seemed like a truly amazing guy based on the tributes that have been posted this week.
I made this pad thai recipe this week, but subbed in brown rice noodles instead of spaghetti squash. So I just used the sauce and it was better than takeout. To really make it shine squeeze the juice of a whole lime into the dish. (C)
These really pretty and affordable glass makeup organizers are back in stock from Target (I have them on my dresser). (J)
What food geniuses eat when they’re home alone. Sometimes it’s the simplest things that are the most comforting.
What it’s like to retire at thirty-eight.
Clearly need to book a trip to Seattle, yummmm.
Love her or hate her, Barbie is turning sixty.
Can you believe The Hills reboot? Will you guys be tuning in?
Love these limited edition prints from Pottery Barn in celebration of International Women’s Day.
There are so many cool women who have paved the way in their industry that we don’t hear about. These seven women surrealists deserve their due.
Loved this piece about work/life balance (or lack thereof) when you are a freelancer or own your own business.
