The clothing, and well, just about everything sales keep popping up, and I have done some shopping for you – from luxury brands, to workout wear, to the upcoming Amazon Prime Day to even sweaters that you will thanking yourself for purchasing when the cooler months arrive. Also, three films, a new-to-me British series, a beautiful cookbook full of ideas for vegetables, books about wealth, enlightenment in the everyday, and a radically hopeful book about history and the future, and yep, still much, much more.

Books

—History for Tomorrow: Inspiration from the Past for the Future of Humanity by Roman Krznaric

Released earlier this month in Britain (hardback), and available in the states in Kindle and Audio versions, “leading social philosopher Roman Krznaric unearths fascinating insights and inspiration from the last 1000 years of world history that could help us confront the most urgent challenges facing humanity in the twenty-first century in his new book History for Tomorrow. From bridging the inequality gap and reducing the risks of genetic engineering, to reviving our faith in democracy and avoiding ecological collapse, History for Tomorrow shows that history is not simply a means of understanding the past but a way of reimagining our relationship with the future. Krznaric reveals how, time and again, societies have risen up, often against the odds, to tackle challenges and overcome crises. History offers a vision of radical hope that could turn out to be our most vital tool for surviving and thriving in the turbulent decades ahead.” As someone who taught history and continues to stay apprised of world news and politics, this book caught my eye to both provide perspective, but also confidence of the good outcomes that are possible.

—Real World Enlightenment: Discovering Ordinary Magic in Everyday Life by Susan Kaiser Greenland

Being released on July 16th, mindfulness teacher, best-selling author, and longtime Buddhist practitioner Susan Kaiser Greenland “explores time-honored themes that tap into the enduring sense of love, connection, and well-being that is with us regardless of our circumstances in her new book Real World Enlightenment. These universal themes—including Change, Humility, Interdependence, Concentration, Joy, Kindness, and Discernment, among many others—help us find emotional and psychological freedom by lessening our reactivity, broadening our perspectives, and deepening our relationships. Drawing from science, psychology, Buddhism, wisdom traditions, and personal stories, Kaiser Greenland gives us strategies to shift from a narrow survival-driven frame of mind to one that is grounded and expansive.”
 

—The Stoic Path to Wealth: Ancient Wisdom for Enduring Prosperity by Darius Foroux

I know many TSLL readers have found great wisdom in Stoicism, so when I learned of The Stoic Path to Wealth being released next Tuesday by Darius Foroux, I wanted to share. Let’s take a look at what you will find:

“The Stoics understood that if you can control your reactions and manage your emotions, you can achieve success. The same principles apply to our financial lives today. The greatest investors approach the markets with discipline, emotional distance, and self-mastery—lessons that the Stoics have been teaching us for thousands of years.

“Combining ancient wisdom with practical investment strategies drawn from analysis of the greatest investors of all time, The Stoic Path to Wealth will teach you how to: 

• “cultivate an investing edge by managing your emotions and developing your unique skills and talents
• develop the discipline to ignore short-term market fluctuations and avoid living in the future
• foster a mindset that allows you to enjoy what you have and avoid greed
• create a sustainable approach to trading”

British Finds

—D. I. Ray, PBS Masterpiece

I stumbled upon this British drama series set in Birmingham this past week and whizzed through the first season (four episodes) that premiered back in 2022. Immediately fascinated and hooked by the complex mystery that spans the entire breadth of the premiere season, I have begun to watch season two which is equally complex. D.I. Ray, played by Parminder Nagra, a Detective Inspector, dealing with overt and passive prejudice and racism in both her work and personal life, is guided by strong writing and thus an engaging plot. Nagra’s character is likable and brings a quiet confidence in herself to solve a crime errantly assumed to be a ‘culturally specific homicide’ as labeled in the script.

Have a look at the trailer to season one below, and look for season two as well now on PBS Masterpiece (six episodes).

—Love at First Sight, Netflix

Yet another show I tumbled upon last weekend and quite liked it and wanted to share. A romantic-comedy set in London, a fun, slightly different approach to telling this trope we know all too well, the two strangers in their early twenties connect on a flight to London in business class (I share this latter detail because it plays a role in both their conversations and serendipity as the story begins), only to be separated by a twist of fate. A reunion seems improbable — but love has a way of defying the odds. It is a happy film that will leave your heart lifted and perhaps dreaming of your next long distance flight.

—Sweaty Betty Harper Racer Tank Top, navy and white stripe

Later this month I will be sharing my wardrobe for this summer and taking walks with the pups as I have four criteria and it has taken time to find the items, but they are pinned down, oh, what relief and appreciation: cool, comfortable, stylish and protection from the sun. Having found all the pieces finally, this is one top I delighted in finding as it can transition well from taking a walk to heading to the market or stepping into a café with the pups. Be sure to sign up for Sweaty Betty’s newsletter and receive 20% off your first order which takes this top down to fewer than $30.

—The Windsor Conspiracy: A Novel by Georgie Blalock

Being released next Tuesday, The Windsor Conspiracy follows the protagonist American Amelia Montague who becomes her cousin Wallis Simpson’s private secretary in France . . . When the Germans invade France, and the Windsors leave Amelia to escape the Gestapo on her own, Amelia finds herself in position to work for the most unlikely of employers: MI5 and the FBI. Convinced to work undercover, Amelia joins the Windsors in Nassau and soon realizes that Wallis’s treachery extends far deeper than the US and British government even knows… “

—The Books of P.G. Wodehouse

Known for his Jeeves and Wooster novels, P. G. Wodehouse (1881-1975) is “widely regarded as the greatest comic writer of the twentieth century. Wodehouse wrote more than seventy novels and 200 short stories, creating numerous much-loved characters – the inimitable Jeeves and Wooster, Lord Emsworth and his beloved Empress of Blandings, Mr Mulliner, Ukridge, and Psmith”. Much Obliged, Jeeves looks to be quite fun, and so do many more titles. Here is a look at the synopsis of this story:

“Just as Bertie Wooster is a member of the Drones Club, Jeeves has a club of his own, the Junior Ganymede, exclusively for butlers and gentlemen’s gentlemen. In its inner sanctum is kept the Book of Revelations, where the less than perfect habits of their employers are lovingly recorded. The book is, of course, pure dynamite. So what happens when it disappears into potentially hostile hands?

“Tossed about in the resulting whirlwind you’ll find lots of Wodehouse’s favourite characters – and a welcome return to Market Snodsbury, in the middle of one of the most chaotic elections of modern times.”

These books look like ideal summer reading for a good laugh and an engaging storyline.

Cookbooks

—Veg: Fresh, Vibrant, Delicious by Laura Sorkin

Laura Sorkin, an organic farmer, classically trained cook and food writer who lives in northwest Vermont and before she co-found Runamok Maple with her husband, she spent 15 years running her own organic vegetable farm after receiving a culinary degree from the French Culinary Institute in New York City (now the International Culinary Center). In Veg: Fresh, Vibrant, Delicious, 150 recipes are featured showcasing the unique flavors and textures of everything from artichokes to zucchini. Ideal for both experienced cooks seeking to broaden their culinary horizons and novices eager to explore nature’s bounty. Inside you’ll find:

• 150 recipes for salads, soups, stews, sides, and entrees
• Stunning photography capturing the vibrancy of each dish
• A to Z of vegetables compromised of the author’s expertise as both a chef and farmer
• Gorgeous cloth packaging with debossing”

A beautiful cookbook that will help you create your own vegetable masterpieces. 🙂

Film

—Fly Me to the Moon

Tasked with directing a fake moon landing as back-up should the scheduled NASA’s historic Apollo 11 moon landing marketing maven Kelly Jones (Scarlett Johansson) wreaks havoc on launch director Cole Davis’s (Channing Tatum) already difficult task. The two begin to become romantically involved, and thus, a rom-com to enjoy. Have a look at the trailer below for Fly Me to the Moon and find it only in theaters beginning today.

—The Good Half

Also being released today is The Good Half, starring Nick Jonas as Renn Wheeland who “returns home to Cleveland for his mother’s funeral. Once there, he forges new relationships while healing old ones, before confronting his problems and trying to face his grief”. Have a look at the trailer below.

Francophile Finds

—Cherry Bombe, The Paris Issue

Francophiles, this is the issue to pick up! Released at the end of June, three-Michelin-starred chef and owner of Atelier Crenn in San Francisco, Dominique Crenn is the cover star. Also an author, cancer survivor, environmentalist, and humanitarian, the Versailles-born chef shares more about her story, what attracted her to the culinary world alongside much more French-inspired content in Cherry Bombe’s ultimate guide to female-run Paris: Dorie Greenspan’s do’s and don’ts for visiting the City of Light, twists on classic French recipes, TikTok star Condiment Claire’s “butter dictionary,” a conversation on Parisian lifestyle with Joie author Ajiri Aki, et beaucoup plus! And, don’t miss our features on les Américaines in Paris like authors Lindsey Tramuta, Rebekah Peppler, and Chef Mashama Bailey of The Grey (who is opening a restaurant in Paris!).

Shopping

—L.K. Bennett’s Anni Blue Geometric Print Handkerchief Dress

While one of the few items not on sale, I wanted to share this loose, yet tie-waist dress with you as it looks to be a wonderful piece to wear as we step back into September or in even next spring.

L. K. Bennett currently does have their summer sale going on, so be sure to stop by and peruse through what is discounted.

—Banana Republic Summer Sale

Quite a few finds worth picking up in Banana Republic’s summer sale, and many are linen. I have shopped a few below.

The Straight Leg Jean

Line Straight Linen Pants, many more colors

—SHOP THE SALE:

—Barbour Maeva Snap-Up Cotton Utility Jacket

I have had a jacket, similar in style and color to this one from Barbour, and I have had it for I think 10+ years. The brand that made it, Luii, no longer exists, but that jacket gets worn frequently, still. For walks or a light layer, it is versatile, a neutral and easy to pack as well. I especially love the pinched waist for a bit of structure. Definitely a jacket for light-weight versatility.

—Net-a-Porter, Joseph Cashmere Turtleneck sweater, 60% off (all sizes!)

I do hope somebody or many somebodies will scoop up this amazing sweater. I will be doing so at the end of the month if it is still available because Joseph cashmere is deliciously soft and well-made, so structurally will last for years. And at this price, a steal.

—Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale: TSLL’s 40+ Picks

Just a reminder that if you haven’t begun to shop (or are waiting for your day to begin), I have shopped the entire sale and hand-picked 40+ items that are worth purchasing no matter what the price. I already went through and picked up what I had on my wishlist, and if you don’t have a Nordstrom’s card, on Monday July 15th, you too will be able to shop the entire sale. Here is my post.

—Piglet in Bed’s Wave Blue Linen Pajamas (on sale, many colors)

Linen, linen, linen! British company, Piglet in Bed, founded in 2017 offers quality linen products for the home and the wardrobe and it is their pajamas (available in oodles of colors and prints) that are on sale at the moment. Shop the Trousers here, the top here or a Short Pjs set (top and shorts)

—Prime Day, Amazon

Taking place this year on the 16th and 17th, if you need anything that is included in their yearly steep savings event, it is a great opportunity not to miss. I can share a few things about what to expect regarding what will be included:

• 40% off select styles from Rothy’s (shop ahead here to set up your wishlist)
• 40% off select styles from Allbirds (shop ahead here).
• Save 20% off selected products from Dr. Sturm (their anti-aging serum is my serum of choice each morning before I put on my moisturizer).
• 20% off selected items from Clé de Peau (I have been using their concealer and am very happy with it)
• 20% off select items from Altuzarra: they have the best belts – classic, yet statement making at the same time.

I am hoping Altuzarra’s Basket Tote goes on sale

—St. John’s Collage Dot Belted Wrap Dress, 60% off

Luxury knit designer St. John is also having a sale, and it was this dress (not knit) that caught my eye. Made of 100% polyester, the collage dot belted wrap dress is a vintage-inspired 3/4 sleeve collared wrap dress that features a fresh colorblocked collage dot print and a self-tie belt.

Staying cool here in Bend has been the priority of late like much of the country, and likely this coming weekend or perhaps on Monday, we will find time to go paddle boarding again. The photo captured above shares our first outing this season that took place when July began.

Whatever your weather has been, I hope you are able to embrace it and take advantage of what it can uniquely offer.

July unfolds into being a leisurely month, and I am happily welcoming it. Everyday Conversational French class began on Tuesday and to see fellow students I had been in class with in prior courses was a treat. As we meet only once a week, the schedule is light, but we dove right into conversations that placed us in la poste et la boulangerie et la patisserie. Seemingly simple, now that I have more confidence to put sentences together with confidence, begin able to do this gave me reason to celebrate.

Speaking of enrolling in courses, I do hope the Contentment Masterclass for those who have already enrolled is going well. As everyone will go at their own pace, summer provides for many of us a wonderful time to have the mental space to explore new courses and content we have been wanting to learn, and it is my hope that TSLL’s course is speaking to what you wish to welcome into your life with concrete approaches that as you continually apply them will bring you the elevated everyday experience that I know is possible and feel fortunate to experience in my own life. Just another reminder that Monday July 22nd is the final day to take advantage of the 20% savings when you enroll for TOP Tier Members (learn more about the course here).

I want send a BIG thank you to Laura M. for sharing this photo she captured when her tote arrived in Italy this week, as well as for the emailed words about how the course is going so far for her. Thank you very much Laura ??

Now with the weekend beginning, whatever your plans may be, hopefully they stir up great enthusiasm and anticipation (and yep, resting can be included in what you might be eager to do ☺️). Stepping back into the kitchen today, I will be filming episode two of The Simply Luxurious Kitchen cooking show, and then this weekend enjoying brunch with a friend I haven’t seen in far too long. Of course, Wimbledon has been figured into my relaxation time and watching Le Tour de France as well.

And speaking of France, Sunday, as I know many of you are more than aware, is La Fête Nationale (or Bastille Day), and as this date holds great significance in my own life journey (something I share in my book The Road to Le Papillon), I will be celebrating in my own way most definitely. Perhaps you will be as well. Wishing you a wonderful weekend, and thank you for choosing to stop by. Until Monday, bonne journée.

~Let’s begin with a slipping away to this beautifully decorated beach cottage at the Hamptons. Loving everything about it – petite, yet spaciously and thoughtfully decorated and an outdoor shower to boot! [House & Garden UK]

~If you have been enjoying Richard Osman’s British mystery series, the Thursday Murder Club, then I have some news that I think will delight you: The books will be adapted are being adapted for a television series! And the cast looks absolutely stellar. Look for it on Netflix likely next year as filming is now underway.

~A big thank you to TSLL reader Abigail for sharing this article with me – Time Traveling through London with an Impressionist Painter [NYTimes, gift link]

~10 chic hairstyles Parisians often ask their stylist [Léonce Chenal]

~Now to London to take a tour of a Clerkenwell’s Georgian townhouse and that masters in tranquility. [House & Garden UK]

~10 Fun facts about the Paris Olympics 2024 [My French Country Home]

~Well, this is just common sense to readers of TSLL, but just in case we need a reminder, and they never hurt – The Health Benefits of Relaxation [The Atlantic]

~So happy this AcornTV original series, Signora Volpe, is returning starring British favorite actor from Silent Witness, Emilia Fox, and while set in Italy (not Britain or France), it is a series I know TSLL readers will love for all sorts of reasons – a strong female lead, beautiful natural setting in northern Italy, creative capers and inspiring sartorial style. Signora Volpe returns later this month, and I will be sure to let you know in an upcoming T & T when it is ready to watch. Catch up now by watching season 1 here.

~Explore last week’s This & That post: July 5, 2024

The British series you will want to watch if you enjoy The Bear, books about love, life journeys and history that takes us back to how quickly and drastically life changed during and following WWII, as well as a new French memoir to take to you the south of France, the other south of France. A new French modern romance film that looks absolutely delightful and full of conversation starters about class. Clothing on sale that is worth adding to your capsule wardrobe at wonderful prices, a cookbook for prioritizing healthy eating via prioritization of plants in all sorts of creative recipes, a new international film inspired by the book of the same name that looks heart-warming, nostalgic and sure to tug at your emotions, and still, there is so much more. 

~~Please note: TSLL is supported by you, readers who take the time to stop by (merci!), peruse and sometimes welcome into your life mentioned and recommended finds. Affiliate links are present in today’s post and may earn commissions for TSLL when you purchase. View TSLL’s full Privacy Policy here.