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Three new films that look to be quite fun, television series and shows to either make you laugh, grab your attention or explore a fascinating figure from the past. Books about life, living well and butter! Yes, you read that correctly. Yum! Also, clothing finds perfect for transitioning into spring, savoring spring and even looking ahead to early summer. Oh, and an exhibit to see when you visit Paris (pronounce that as you would in French, and see how it just sings off the tongue ;). Okay, enough with my attempt at being sing-songy, and still there is more finds to explore! Happy Friday!
Art
—Musée des impressionnismes Giverny
If you will be in France this spring or summer, an exhibit to visit is Avant les nymphéas: Monet découvre Giverny, 1883-1890 (Before the Water Lilies). Located in Giverny, right next to Claude Monet’s famous garden, the exhibit opens today and runs until July 5th.
This exhibit will mark the 100 years since Monet’s death (December 5, 1926), focusing exclusively on the artist’s early years in the village of Giverny when he arrived in 1883 to the end of 1890, during which year he bought the home he had been renting and is now forever associated with Claude Monet, and when the designing of his garden began.
Before the Water Lilies. Monet discovers Giverny, 1883-1890
Books
—Finding Your Walden: How to Strive Less, Simplify More, and Embrace What Matters Most by Jen Tota McGivney
Released last May, Finding Your Walden looks like a book right in line with living a life of contentment. Henry David Thoreau, of whom will be the focus of another find this week (shared further down on today’s list), has always captivated my curiosity. His focus and respect for nature, simplicity, and life itself have provided great reading, and author Jen Tota McGivney takes inspiration from his most well-known book, Walden, in hers.
“Finding Your Walden combines classic literature with happiness studies, exploring how experts—psychologists, career coaches, and doctors—support Thoreau’s ideas as guideposts for today’s Great Reassessment. It combines insights of the 1854 classic with people who embrace the pare-down-to-trade-up philosophy today, whether through major life changes (such as tiny homes or sabbaticals) or smaller life hacks (like digital sabbaths or meditation practices). Their stories inspire us to apply creativity, simplicity, and peace to the experiment of life.”
—The Meaning of Your Life: Finding Purpose in an Age of Emptiness by Arthur Brooks
Being released this coming Tuesday from Atlantic magazine contributor and Harvard professor Arthur Brooks comes his latest book, The Meaning of Life. In it, he “shows you how to push back against these changes and find the meaning you need to live a happy, fulfilling life. Relying on cutting-edge science, he offers practical, evidence-based strategies for breaking free of the powerful trends and personal habits that dull your focus on the why of your life. Drawing on the great philosophers and the world’s faith traditions, he shows how everyone can—and must—approach life’s most important and mysterious questions and provides a blueprint that will help even the most skeptical person find a life of spiritual transcendence, passionate love, and true calling.”
—Once Upon a Stranger: The Science of How “Small” Talk Can Add Up to a Big Life by Dr. Gillian Sandstrom
Also being released this coming Tuesday from researcher and professor of the psychology of kindness Dr. Gillian Sandstromis Once Upon a Stranger: The Science of How ‘Small’ Talk Can Add Up to a Big Life.
As someone who regularly talks to strangers, so much so my friends and family sometimes ask me if I know the people I am talking to because of my genuine friendliness and curiosity, I can attest, the community I feel with fellow Bendites who share similar walking routes, farmers’ market interests and other everyday activities around town is real, and it does boost my day.
“In this new book, Dr. Sandstrom “reveals that by talking to strangers, we can unlock more joy, curiosity, and goodwill every day. In an age when loneliness is a social health crisis and harmful behaviors like groupthink increase our perception of distance and polarization, this transformational guide explains the benefits of stretching our perceived limits and connecting with our fellow humans, including:
- Increased happiness and well-being
- Improved social skills and self-esteem
- Reduced anxiety and social biases
- Expanded connections and social circles
“Combining scientific findings with stories from her own life, Dr. Sandstrom offers us a new vision of a life well lived, when we have the courage to reach out and simply say, ‘hello.’”
—Spirituality Through a Highly Sensitive Lens: An Objective Look at Meditation Methods and Enlightenment by Elaine Aron
Elaine Aron is a name that HSPs know well and highly regard, so when I learned of her new book, I became curious, especially due to its focus. Spiriuality Through a Highly Sensitive Lens has been described as “her most personal book yet, Dr. Aron offers the first ever objective overview of meditation methods and paths to enlightenment. Sharing practical explanations of spiritual practices as well as her own experiences from fifty-five years of meditation practice, she helps readers better understand the form of spirituality that suits them best. She also delves into the recent brain research regarding this end state, this shift that can occur.
“Highly sensitive people, with their natural depth of thinking and feeling, as well as their greater need for inner peace, are instinctively drawn to such a spiritual journey, but this is a book for everyone.”
My copy has been preordered, and I will be eager to explore what she shares when it arrives this coming Tuesday.
—The Wisdom of Walking in Nature: 50 Mindful and Therapeutic Ways to Enjoy Any Walk by Alison Davies
Since Henry David Thoreau is a topic of focus this week with two items related to him, this new book, The Wisdom of Walking in Nature seems quite fitting. Being released this coming Tuesday, author Alison Davies shares how “walking isn’t just great for your heart and immune system—it’s also proven to reduce stress, ease anxiety, boost mood, and spark creativity.
“This guide helps you slow down, be present, and connect with the seasons and the natural world, from uplifting spring sunshine to autumnal strolls that clear your mind. Packed with mindful walking tips, it offers simple ways to engage with your surroundings, easy ideas for self-reflection, and practical prompts for bonding with walking companions (whether family, friends, loved ones, or even the four-legged kind!).”
to be released on March 31st
British Finds
—Barbour Dalbury Tartan Midi Dress
If you love tartan and are looking for a spring dress that is both timeless and modern, this new design from Barbour may be just it! With an asymmetric hem and a relaxed fit, I am liking the boat neckline as that complements all necklines and creates a subtle elegance as well, which is also comfortable to wear. And the price isn’t bad either.
—Daylesford’s Bailey Storage Jars, various sizes
When storage can be beautiful while being highly functional, I am all for it. Having similar storage jars and containers in my own épicerie, I found these Bailey storage jars that are available exclusively from Daylesford. Easy to stack if necessary (the smaller sizes more likely than the larger ones), and with easy-to-turn acacia wood tops, I am keeping my eye on them as something to add should I need more. And the glass, it’s mouth-blown glass. No chemicals or finishes are used. Three sizes are available.
—A Woman of Substance, Channel 4
When I saw that Brenda Blethyn (Vera) co-stars as the lead in this new adaptation of Barbara Taylor Bradford’s 1979 novel, I wanted to see what A Woman of Substance was all about. This story has it all when it comes to drama. A plot driven by ambition, betrayal and revenge, Jessica Reynolds stars as the young Emma Harte and Blethyn as Harte in her later years. The series premiered in the UK on March 11th and has eight episodes, all airing on Channel 4. Have a look at the trailer below.
Cookbooks
—The Butter Book by Anna Stockwell
I think I most definitely would have to agree with the author of The Butter Book Anna Stockwell when she writes that “Butter is a perfect ingredient.”
In her new book – part cookbook, part butter aficionado book – she asserts that “in both cooking and baking, [butter] can be foundational or a finishing touch. It’s a flavor powerhouse, a sauce emulsifier, a taste enhancer, and above all else, a bringer of joy. What you will discover in the book:
- Butter’s curious history
- Tips for buying butter, fun ways to serve it, and its ability to transform the most humble foods—a pot of rice, a day-old muffin—into something revelatory
- How to make butter at home, then whip, clarify, or compound it to elevate your everyday cooking
- Ten recipes that showcase butter’s multitudes, from Butter-Basted Scallops with Beurre Blanc to Butterscotch Pudding, each one teaching easy yet essential techniques, including browning and emulsifying
- Collectible butter accessories
Released earlier this month, it’s all about the butter folks. I’m in.
Films
This looks like a fun comedy with a touch of everyday drama. Fantasy Life stars Amanda Peet who plays an actress who falls for “the anxious law school dropout (Matthew Shear) babysitting her kids in this smart, New York-set romantic comedy.” Have a look at the trailer below and find it in select theaters today and nationwide April 3rd.
Steve Zahn writes and stars in this new film She Dances about a struggling single father who tries to reconnect with his distant teenage daughter while chaperoning her at a regional dance competition. Premiering in theaters today, have a look at the trailer below.
Now this romantic comedy actually looks quite funny. At first, due to the title, I wasn’t so sure. But then, they had me at Marisa Tomei. She’s fabulous, and from the looks of it, this film is capturing a zeitgeist moment as it pertains to podcast influencers, lifestyle gurus, and well, trying to understand an ever-changing world that doesn’t seem to want to let us catch up.
In You’re Dating a Narcissist! Tomei’s character is an outspoken psychologist who, upon hearing that her daughter has just accepted a marriage proposal after only six weeks, rushes to Los Angeles with her best friend to stop the wedding, fearing the groom is a narcissist. Sounds like a fun watch. Have a look at the trailer below and look for it in theaters beginning today.
Francophile Finds
I first shared this French clothing brand on TSLL a couple of weeks ago, as I appreciate their sustainable approach to production and the timeless quality of their designs. New to their upcoming collection (you reserve your items by a certain date so they know how many they will produce, and then the items are guaranteed to ship by a certain date) is an additional color in their Charles sweater.
Their new color and fabric option of the sweater would be a perfect transition piece to have as we move from winter to spring. Made of cotton and wool in ecru, it looks cozy, with a slightly (but not too much) loose fit and a touch of texture. And the price isn’t bad either.
Shopping
—Anonymous’s Banie sandal 75mm, chocolate
There is just something, yet again, timeless about this style of slingback heel. Made with leather, the company covers all tariffs and international duties as the shoes are made in Portugal. More colors are available, but this chocolate hue looks quite versatile for spring, summer and then even into autumn.
—Everlane’s Way-High Jean 2.0, two lengths, many washes
Available in a 27.5” and 29.5” inseam, The Way-High is Everlane’s best-selling jean, and now with a few “comfy” updates. What remains is the straight-leg style with just a touch of stretch.
—Lilysilk’s Silk Stripe Sleeveless dress, two colors
As we step into spring, this silk dress will be both elevated and super comfortable due to its breathability. The classic button-up shirt collar, but with a few asymmetrical touches to the skirt, choose from green or navy.
—Tuckernuck’s True navy Jessica Midi Dress
While a bit of an investment, the Jessica Dress features a classic halter neckline and comes with small detailed beaded embellishments. Made of poplin, the fit is comfortable yet structured. Easy to transition from a day event to a casual summer evening.
—Tuckernuck Tan Multi-Woven Nadia Flats
One more from Tuckernuck, and at quite a nice price. These Nadia flats, made of leather and with the multi-brown hues, make it available to be worn with a variety of outfits. Easy to slip on and perfect for spring and autumn.
Television
—The Comeback, season 3, HBO
This final season of The Comeback, starring Lisa Kudrow, will be my first time watching, so I have a lot to catch up on. And if you, like me, are wondering when did the first two seasons air, weren’t they a while ago? You would be right, which makes the name of this show all the more apropos. The first season aired in 2005, only to be cancelled, and then it returned again in 2014, only to be cancelled again. With dogged determination (Michael Patrick King of SATC and And Just Like That is a co-creator with Kudrow), the show is returning again! Premiering last week, enjoy eight episodes on HBO, and this season, Kudrow’s son stars in the show as well. (Fun fact, they film The Comeback on the same sound stage where FRIENDS was filmed.)
—Henry David Thoreau, a documentary by Ken Burns, PBS
Premiering this Sunday on PBS, Ken Burns along with Erik Ewers and Christopher Loren Ewers bring a modern exploration of Henry David Thoreau. “He has been called the patron saint of the environmental movement and the father of nonviolent resistance. His best-known work, Walden, is considered a masterpiece and figures on every list of essential American books. Yet our knowledge of Henry David Thoreau is incomplete, outdated, and often inaccurate.
“In this modern take on the historical documentary, the mythical Thoreau – the hermit of Walden Pond, the imitator of Ralph Waldo Emerson, the nag, the saint – will give way to the human Thoreau: social; genial; an exacting scientist and charismatic speaker; an individual with flaws, self-contradictions, and misjudgments that prove his humanity and hold a mirror to our own.”
Have a look at the trailer below.
—Ponies, peacock
Premiering back in January, Ponies stars Emilia Clarke and Haley Lu Richardson as the namesake of the show – PONIES (Persons of No Interest). Set in 1977 Moscow, these two PONIES become CIA operatives and uncover a Cold War conspiracy their husbands were killed for. Have a look at the trailer below.
The first week of spring, and that means sun, rain, wind – a little bit of everything. I am looking forward to spending time out in the garden this weekend – potting up more dahlias, adding the new roses and finishing aerating and thatching the lawn. And if it’s Saturday, watching Gardeners’ World. Oh yep.
Nelle patiently waits in her office bed while I type away, and this week was a busy week at the computer. (Thank you Nelle!) What a full week on the blog this week!
Each day, beginning on Sunday, a new post was shared, and what a variety of topics that were explored: inside – the full office reveal!; outside –the first garden post of the new season; a conversation about ‘what brings you alive’; the monthly Smile post (there is a great new French series shared exclusively that I am loving and think you might too – think Monk, with style and in France!); and of course we have today’s This & That!
I hope your week has gone well, and that you are winding down or winding up, whichever suits your temperament, with the weekend’s arrival. Whatever your plans, may it nourish and delight you beyond your hopes and intentions. Until Sunday, bonne journée.
~The many ways, beyond just the regular walking, a dog in our life makes us healthier [The Times]
~An uplifting quote about spring’s arrival that every garden will likely relate to [@thebesottedbookworm, IG]
~Anglophiles and gardeners, save this list – The beautiful British gardens to visit before you die (Clare Foster’s words, not mine) [House & Garden UK]
~A thoughtful post full of inspiration: A simple insight that began from within about setting boundaries [Tiny Buddha]
~Go beyond the famous cafés of Saint-Germain-des-Prés and explore all that is to see and discover [Hip Paris]
~An unexpected article I quite liked: A beautiful metaphor found in wedding dress shopping. [Tiny Buddha]
~For fellow HSPs, the research keeps revealing what we’ve known our entire lives [Sensitive Refuge]
~Monty Don shares where to begin when it comes to Classical music if you are just starting to listen to this genre, and I have to concur.
~Traveling and love cinema? Keep this list of the 24 most breath-taking cinemas in the world [Financial Times]
~When you like yourself . . . freedom is discovered [IG @riderofireland]
~HOME TOUR OF THE WEEK: This Chelsea townhouse, while designed and decorated for a young family, just looks tranquil with its neutral hues. But don’t be fooled, there are subtle hints of color that amp up the interest if it feels a bit too sophisticated. Is that possible with this sanctuary? Nah, I’m loving it (and notice the floors – hardwood and stonework). [House & Garden UK]
~SNL crosses the pond! Tina Fey introduces the first episode, live! in London. She gets schooled by Nicola Coughlan, is permitted to swear, and is ushered into British culture by Graham Norton. It’s a fun watch. Have a look below:
~Explore last week’s edition of This & That, March 20th:
The books are plentiful this week and in a wide array of genres – decorating, embracing your inner weirdness, making a new life in Provence, historical fiction by an author who has carved out her name in this genre, the life of a writer, and how to converse effectively even while having different perspectives. Also, a new British comedy that comes highly recommended, a return of a French mystery series, and a British mystery one too! And this is just the start of all the premieres on television that are taking place this coming week. Also, sales on style staples for spring, and whoa, there is still more!
~Please note: TSLL is supported by you, readers who take the time to stop by (merci!), peruse, and sometimes welcome into your life the mentioned and recommended finds. Affiliate links are present in this post and may earn commissions for TSLL when you make a purchase. View TSLL’s full Privacy Policy here.
