I am having a lot of fun (for the first time in my life).
two memoirs that changed how I think, tuckernuck on sale, and the power in pleasure (Noticing Vol. 70)
On Wednesdays, I share a list of things I’m seeing, liking, thinking about, etc. This is my weekly bulletin board!
YOU’RE SUPPOSED TO LIKE YOUR LIFE: I landed in NYC last night with an empty stomach. I called an Uber from the airport and watched out the window, surprised that I already recognized my neighborhood and could measure with memory how close I was to “home.” Around 9:30 pm, I dropped off my luggage and pushed myself out of the apartment to check whether the line that usually stretches a few blocks at the pizza place around the corner (L’Industrie) was reasonable. There were only a few people ahead of me, and I was able to order two slices of their very popular pizza almost immediately. I stood waiting, catching up on voice memos and answering text messages, a buzz of people moving around me. They called “Caroline,” sliding slices of greasy perfect pizza across the bar. I sent a photo with a text that read “I’m so back.” I carried the paper plates down the sidewalk, the street black and inky, a light rain making everything slick, while shoving a piece of folded margarita into my face. I tossed my head back, letting the rain fall into my eyes, feeling as if I were being baptized in the spirit of New York City.
There is an uncomfortable ping that often comes with pleasure – “Am I allowed to do this?” Growing up, I always thought I was about to get in trouble and have carefully monitored myself for years. From a Midwestern perspective, I understood being reasonable as honorable. As a Catholic, joy can be way more confusing than ever intended. My biggest fears can be encapsulated in the following phrases: “Who do you think you are?” or “Must be nice to have such an easy life!”
While there is a time and place for order, discipline, and sacrifice, I have learned that the better indicator of being on the right track is your own enjoyment. They say “no pain, no gain,” and I agree: you can have anything you work for, but that work can also be fun and feel like you. This is the lesson I’ve been trying to learn.
Yesterday, I came across this quote that puts this sentiment perfectly into words:
“Even if it’s nothing but an alluring tickle, push the objections aside and move into the feeling of ‘Yes!’ Believe it or not, this sensation — not pain, not self-sacrifice, not stoic numbness — is the surest indicator that you’re on the path that will lead you to the best possible effect you can have on the world.”
– Martha Beck, Finding Your Own North Star
Easier said than done! Why can it be most uncomfortable to sit with the good feelings!? But pain does not always mean progress. Being the victim is not a victory. You can trust what you find fun. Joy is a powerful indicator! You are allowed to – even supposed to – like your life while you live it. Maybe go buy a slice of pizza tonight?
ADD TO CART: I just found these under-$20 lace shorts. More for indoor – these boxer pajama shorts are also cute. Or try the track pant trend for less.
POWER IN PLEASURE: In the same vein, I recently shared this poem on my Instagram Stories. I find that true delight always springs from very small things – rarely requiring a grand change. An ice cream cone. A walk through the park. Time to sketch on the sidewalk. Wearing the clothing that you already own.
TUCKERNUCK SALE (!!!): I combed through pages of this sale – it’s so good and ends tonight! Here’s how I’d style some of the pieces:
01. Broadway show: I ordered this dress to wear to one next week! Pairing with this burgundy purse and these little yellow heels.
02. Summer concert: This Sea dress paired with these tulip cowboy boots. The puffy heart necklace I wear all the time is also on sale! And it’s smaller sister.
03. Wedding: Thinking ahead to fall weddings, I especially love this dress. I’d pair it with this cranberry clutch and these gold heart earrings.
Other favorites:
Pink-and-brown bow blouse in my cart. Cute for fall!
Impressed by the shoes – these fringe heels, perfect white sandals, or these very hip heels.
Cashmere cable knit or crew neck. Or this chic shell – very cute with skirts!
Some more designer on sale – Clare V bag and Barbour jacket.
Charmed party jeans (I like the baggy fit!)
Perfect fall floral mini dress
NORTHERN MICHIGAN RECS: My family has been spending summers in Glen Arbor, Michigan, since I was born. Just got back from a trip up north. Sharing my recs here in case you’re planning a trip!
FASHION FORWARD WALKING SHOES: Upping my step game in the city, I have been asked what shoes I like to wear for walking days. These sandals are my new favorite. I wore these flats right out of the box and clocked 20K steps with no sign of blisters. I bought these dad sandals a few years ago and have gotten endless wear out of them! Do you wear a size 8? I found this gold pair on Poshmark! These wrap sandals are new to me, and I’m already reaching for them daily. I have been wearing a low-profile tennis shoe like this one with white crew socks – a sporty edge for other outfits!
LISTENING TO: This memoir!!!! Isabel Klee is inspiring me. Listening to it right now! If you haven’t listened to Ina Garten’s memoir, I highly recommend it as well. Also tuning in to the Crown Affair podcast centered around creativity and, of course, Taylor Swift.
Sending love!
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So needed, Caroline! 💫 I feel like I’ve felt the same way for the longest time, only just learning what it means to follow my excitement and anything that feels a little compelling or a little bit fun.
So inspired by your New York series and seeing you set out to do the things you used to save for “someday.”
Loving this poem! What broadway show are you seeing?! I was just in the city and everything I saw was incredible!