Weekend Reading is Back For The New Year
What happened when I finally unplugged
Bonjour from Mexico! I am writing this first newsletter of the year on my balcony. Before we jump into things, Weekend Reading Week #1 is up on the blog. This always happens to be my most-read Sunday newsletter of the year.
The story behind Links I Love came from my grandma, who used to cut out newspaper articles and mail them to me with post-it notes explaining why I might enjoy them. There was a lot of fashion and some travel. This is a weekly nod to my grandma and a way to continue her legacy.
New Year’s Break Goals
My big goal over the Christmas/New Year’s break was to unplug, be a little bored, and see what happened.
It is always a struggle for me to shut my brain down. Every morning, I have been doing yoga and taking walks on the beach. One of the best things about these few days in Mexico is not having to think or prepare dinner, or really any meal.
After one yoga class, I came back to my husband with an idea for making life easier in 2026 with a bit of planning. I'll talk about that later this month.
Wearing my Ritz Frame hat, Rue Saint Honore J.Crew (super old t-shirt), and Splendid shorts.
We arrived on NYE, and I didn’t end up having time to write my goals and my tout est possible card like I thought I would.
On New Year’s Day, I pulled out my green notebook and began writing my goals for 2026. This usually happens later in January, but I felt ready. I already shared that my word of the year is rest—another challenge I will have to work on throughout 2026. I have enjoyed numerous naps over the last couple of days, including a few in our balcony hammock.
What happened when I unplugged for a little while?
Before I left for Mexico, I was tying up last-minute details at home and planning for early 2026. I will be in Paris at the end of January for a Sézane/Book event. Paris is on my mind as I research hotels.
While walking on the beach, the idea for my third book came to me. My second book idea is already slowly coming together. Paris in January, if planned well, could help get the ball rolling to start pulling books two and three together. I am itching to pitch them!
I am really excited about books two and three and hope to share more details soon.
Back to Chicago and My Routine
One of the best parts about returning home is getting back into my routine and seeing Henri.
The last few weeks have been a welcome break, and I am keeping with tradition by starting very slowly in January. The end of the month kicks off five events in quick succession.
January is all about wellness and routines. My Ritual vitamins are how I start the day. I also take a probiotic and magnesium at night, and I am trying this skin vitamin.
My sister-in-law is trying to convince me to try creatine.
I downloaded the new Harlan Coben series, Run Away, for the flight home. These headphones and this adapter are two new favorite things I need to add to my long-haul travel essentials.
To Be Continued:
I am off to soak up the last evening in Mexico and get ready to return home. Have you tried to unplug over the break? What happened when you let your brain rest?
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2026 Question.
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How about Paris Door of the Day