I am eating by myself.
the cost of getting what you want, my current jewelry crush, party shoes, and where to get a free drink in NYC (Noticing Vol. 72)
On Wednesdays, I share a list of things I’m seeing, liking, thinking about, etc. This is my weekly bulletin board!
YOU GOT THIS (FARE REQUIRED): New York City can throw you into an existential feeling – how are there this many people in the world? They all have text chains, closets of things, concerns, lovers, friends, things to plan …. It’s endless. How does God keep track of it all? It’s beyond me.
I stood on the corner of Broadway and Houston last night. The exhaust of a halal cart and the buzzing of commuters circled around me. I was running a post-work errand, and it was beginning to rain. I paused at the edge of the sidewalk, reminding myself to look around.
I’ve learned that all things – inspiration, connection, creativity – begin with noticing, so I try to consciously remind myself to pay good attention. As Mary Oliver says, “this is our endless and proper work.”
Snapping myself into the moment, I looked up and saw “You Got This” printed on the side of the Adidas building. “That’s nice,” I thought – albeit a bit basic. I snapped a photo, and when I looked back at my camera roll, I noticed the bus perfectly positioned in front, nearly screaming “FARE REQUIRED.” I laughed as I crossed the street, “That’s perfect,” I said out loud.
Each morning I try to recite a list of affirmations – like little prayers of agreement – that have formed from my work with The Artist’s Way. The second from the top reads, “Do not lament the cost of what you want.”
You Got This. Fare Required.
But what is required?
The arduous work of trying again and again and again. The quiet needed to hear your inner, most authentic voice. The courage to follow its lead. The heat of being unsure of yourself. The discouragement that comes from making things repeatedly until you close the gap between your vision and your skill. The bravery needed to be seen. Likely feeling weird in meetings. The endurance to push through embarrassment. The stress of putting yourself out there. Years of being misunderstood by your distant family members, friends from high school, or strangers watching you try. Saying scary nos so you can say unseen yeses. Confrontation with yourself for your lack of consistency. Frustration with the process. Digging until you get to the heart of what you really want. The difficulty in granting yourself space to do what you are called to do.
“Pray to catch the bus, then run as fast as you can.” - Julia Cameron
The cost is in the running, which requires real training. Sore legs, the out-of-breath feeling, spending days out on the pavement. But with enough practice, you can catch any bus you want. You got this — but there is a fare required.
DREAM DRESS: This Tory Burch disco ball-inspired number stopped me in my tracks. And this matching bag!!!!
FREE CHAMPAGNE PSA: I walked into Balthazar last night in SoHo after a casual trip to Target. It took a surprising amount of courage to approach the host stand and request a table for one. What was I afraid of? That they might think I’m stupid for trying to get into a famous restaurant alone without a reservation, of course. But truly, who cares. (This was my internal monologue.)
A man with thick black glasses and an intimidating facade that could be felt from miles away took one look at me and said, “Right now?” I said back, “Yes,” like it was a test. I was quickly led to a tiny table in the corner – my wet umbrella and tote bags in tow. When the server came, he glanced at me and said, “We offer a free glass of sparkling wine to those who dine alone. Would you like one?”
Like a reward for bravery.
This is a two-part PSA – first, dine alone at Balthazar for a free drink. Second, say yes to yourself. You are the person who holds your own permission.
JEWELRY CRUSH: I came across this brand at Printemps a few weeks ago and instantly fell for the acrylic eye-candy jeweled look. They offered 10% off just for us! Use code “CAROLINE”
Even better, I just learned the background story –
“Luc Kieffer is a second-generation designer known for sculptural, color-forward pieces handcrafted in his atelier just outside Paris, using his signature natural resin material and Swarovski crystal details. The collections center on stackable bangles and rings, alongside unique refillable lipstick cases that have been especially well received.
Luc began his career designing jewelry for CHANEL, Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent, and Jean Paul Gaultier before launching his namesake brand in the early 00s. Now in the 2026 relaunch phase, the brand is gaining traction in the US with partners including Printemps NY, C.O. Bigelow, Auberge Resorts and specialty boutiques, as well as collaborations with Cara Cara and Iris Apfel.”
How cool!!! I love people making art.
PODCAST ADDICTION: I have become completely addicted to this podcast. In a mere two days, I have listened to the David Sedaris, Anne Lamott, Suleika Jaouad, and Ocean Vuong episodes. The language they use!!! The interviews are so high quality. I can’t get enough. So much inspiration.
RECENTLY WEARING:
Gingham dress that is the perfect fit (I’m wearing a small)
Tory Burch trusty sandals. I brought these a few years ago and won’t quit them. So comfortable and hold up very well.
Zara satin halter. Ideal “going out” top.
Loeffler yellow studded flats I have been wearing everywhere
WOMEN KEEPING ME COMPANY: Some of my best summer company has come in the form of my audiobooks. Listening to memoirs of women who have moved to NYC way before me has been a daily habit that has made this summer even more special. So much comfort and inspiration are accessible right on my phone through my headphones. When you sign up for Audible, the first three months are only $0.99. This subscription has been so worth it to me. These are my favorite audiobooks currently and their backstory:
PARTY SHOE EDIT: A fun shoe makes an outfit. A lot of these are on sale!
On sale white floral shoe (brides, grads, anyone else!!!)
Beaded heel mule that could be worn any season
CARD CASE HUNT: I have been on the hunt for a special card case. Like all of us, I always need my credit cards, but sometimes my wallet is too big for the bag at hand, so I just throw them loosely everywhere. It’s a miracle that I haven’t lost them yet. I have my eye on a Chanel card case to commemorate the summer and have been stalking The Real Real. I visited the Chanel store a few weeks ago, but the color choices just weren’t quite right.
During my search, I’ve also found these more unique ones. I love when a daily use item gets a sentimental, special upgrade.
This bandana-style card case from Longchamp
Poppy painted Oscar de la Renta. Or in a bit bigger traditional wallet size – love the pop of red.
Sending love!
🛋️ In Case You Missed It
🪟 Thanks for being here! If this post brought joy to your inbox, I would be honored if you left a like or a comment. It helps us reach more wonderful people like you!
🦋 For more content, follow along on Instagram or TikTok. All my favorite things gathered here!
💙💙 so glad you were introduced to Luc Kieffer jewels!
Keith McNally’s (owner of Balthazar) memoir is a great read! I remember him mentioning the free glass of champagne for solo diners 😀