The April Edit

A simple nettle soup recipe, film noir, flying solo, and a Mother's Day link list.

The Monthly Edits are a casual curation of my consumptions from the past few weeks: eats, reads, finds, sights, and experiences. Buon appetito!

I’ve been home alone for the last week—it’s actually the first time in 4.5 years that I’ve had the house all to myself for any extended period of time. As much as I would love to be with the rest of the gang right now, I am relishing in this personal retreat. The backyard is starting to bloom and I’ve been sneaking little moments throughout my day to sit and enjoy it. Our landlords live next door and do all the landscaping in our yard (such a dream). One day I would love to learn how to maintain a garden like this myself. Until then, I will enjoy the beautiful abundance without the efforts.

Back in January I wrote about selecting the word ‘ease’ to guide my days this year. I will admit, I haven’t been as successful as hoped (yet). The recent stillness in the house reminded me of this intention and helped to point out a few places where I’m missing the mark. They say “it’s about the journey, not the destination” so with that in mind, I will continue trying. Having this outdoor space might just be my secret weapon for approaching ‘ease’. I’ll let you know. Alright, here’s how the month went…

Loving this pink tree in the backyard.

• The title of head chef in our household belongs to Scott (which I am grateful for). Having him away this past week sparked an old flame for me though. It’s been really nourishing to reconnect with cooking and get creative in the kitchen again. I took myself to the farmers market to kick off the season last Saturday—made some delicious salads, tacos, and a stinging nettle soup (full recipe below).

• The fact that The Tortured Poets Department dropped the same week I had some solo time feels absolutely kismet. I’ve got a few favourites already (2, 5, 6, 8, 26) but need to give it another couple listens before I decide. This round-up of reactions was hilarious. The lavender pirouette skort she wears in her fortnight reel is strongly calling my name. Also, I love that she had Ethan Hawke & Josh Charles (the dead poets) star in the music video. Thoughts on the album?

Neumann and I watching Ripley together + my mood board made it onto the wall!

• As you may know, I made myself a mood board this month. It has officially been installed onto my office wall and I am very happy with the outcome. I’ve already switched up a few things—it’s definitely going to be a revolving art piece that morphs with the seasons and inspirations within my orbit. I love the large size (5ft x 3ft) and could honestly go even bigger. Full instructions here if you want to make one yourself.

• It was my turn to host our writing group’s co-work session this month! Even though everyone is super friendly and accepting, I psyched myself out and got anxious about it (story of my life). I love this group and if you’re interested in joining, send me a message. We meet digitally on the last Thursday of each month.

Buildings covered in flowers.
Why butter sculptures are everywhere right now.
Seven stories of dramatic career pivots.
A fantastic reminder.
The truth behind the slouching epidemic.
Made me laugh!
Bacopa might be the next trending herb.