A super full This & That to enjoy perusing with books about honoring yourself, as well as stepping over the 50-year marker well and into mid-life with ample knowledge about to make it an awesome second half; also, wisely modeling Mother Nature; along with a mystery to solve in Westminster Abbey, and still more titles. A trove of treasures will go on sale this weekend from a favorite American expat living in Provence, a luxury travel duffel at a great price, a new comedy series, a holiday film that is a bit different than the rest, and a British series I have been most eager to finally arrive for viewing in the states. And there are clothes as well as décor finds too! These and so much more to explore, so let’s get started!

Art

—Julia Child: A Recipe for Life at the Ella Sharp Museum

An exhibit to visit as it travels around the country. Now on view in Michigan in Jackson, if you live nearby or are passing through the area, be sure to stop in before January 12th. Julia Child: A Recipe for Life “explores the key ingredients in Julia’s personal journey, which became part of America’s culinary revolution, through a series of immersive experiences. Julia’s insatiable curiosity and tenacious spirit drove her to endlessly try, test, and teach how to make delicious food. Learning empowered Julia and she in turn empowered others, profoundly transforming American cuisine and food culture”.

I wish I could visit. 🙂

Books

—Cher: The Memoir: Part One of a Two-Part Memoir from the Iconic Artist and Actor by Cher

Cher’s much anticipated memoir is set to be released this coming Tuesday, and this is just the first of two parts! Part two is schedule for a Spring ’25 release, but until then, in Part One readers will learn how “as a dyslexic child who dreamed of becoming famous, Cher was raised in often-chaotic circumstances, surrounded by singers, actors, and a mother who inspired her in spite of their difficult relationship.

“Following her [unique] beginnings through childhood to meeting and marrying Sonny Bono—Part One reveals the highly complicated relationship that made them world-famous, but eventually drove them apart”.

—I Decided to Live as Me: An Illustrated Checklist for How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others So You Can Learn to Love Yourself by Kim Suhyun

I happened upon this book a couple of weeks ago and immediately saved it to share upon its release date which is this upcoming Tuesday. Translated into English, Kim Suhyun’s I Decided to Live as Me has already sold a million-copies internationally. The book provides guidance about how to stop comparing yourself to others—especially on social media—and how to find the strength to be yourself.

Paired with the author’s “charming illustrations and words of comfort, Suhyun offers a checklist to guide you on your own journey, with advice including:

• Don’t be kind to those who aren’t kind to you.
• Remember that no one lives a perfect life.
• Don’t be swayed by others’ opinions.
• Crack corny jokes sometimes.
• Don’t try too hard to get along with everyone.

“Through these tips and more, I Decided to Live as Me teaches you that by freeing yourself from the pressure of other people’s expectations, you can focus on what truly matters: living not for anyone else, but for yourself.”

Have a look at the Table of Contents below.

—The Second Fifty: Answers to the 7 Big Questions of Midlife and Beyond by Debra Whitman PhD

After reading this article in the WSJ this weekend about changing how we think about getting old and how that mindset holds the key to living a long and fulfilling life, I knew I wanted to read a globally recognized expert on aging, Dr. Debra Whitman’s new book, The Second Fifty. Released this past September, Whitman “draws on compelling stories from her own family and people across the country, interviews with experts, and cutting-edge research, she shares insights on brain health, the contributions and concerns of an older workforce, caregiving, financing retirement, and more.

“Her findings are often surprising: Americans over fifty are a boon to―not a drain on―the economy. Dementia rates have actually been declining as more people achieve higher levels of education and adopt healthier lifestyles. And while we’ve long known that staying connected to others is critical to mental health, it turns out it is also linked to a stronger immune system, lower blood pressure, and a longer life. Whitman presents practical steps we can take to help create a better second fifty for ourselves . . . Whitman also calls for urgently needed changes that would make it easier for every American to enjoy a vital and meaningful second half of life”.

—The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World by Robin Wall Kimmerer 

Yet again, we can learn so much from Mother Nature. Author of the NYTimes bestselling author of Braiding Sweetgrass, Robin Wall Kimmerer’s new book to be released this coming Tuesday is already receiving praise and after reading the synopsis, I am looking forward to reading it.

Looking at the modern world of human activity with subsists on an “economy [that] is rooted in scarcity, competition, and the hoarding of resources, we have surrendered our values to a system that actively harms what we love. Meanwhile, the serviceberry’s relationship with the natural world is an embodiment of reciprocity, interconnectedness, and gratitude. The tree distributes its wealth—its abundance of sweet, juicy berries—to meet the needs of its natural community. And this distribution insures its own survival”.

As Kimmerer explains, “‘Serviceberries show us another model, one based upon reciprocity, where wealth comes from the quality of your relationships, not from the illusion of self-sufficiency.'”

Have a look at an excerpt from the book:

British Finds

—The Bells of Westminster by Leonora Nattrass

Recommended by The Financial Times last weekend, The Bells of Westminster is a caper that I think will hold your attention and be read quite quickly. Set in London 1774, “Susan Bell who spends her days within the confines of Westminster Abbey, one of many who live in the grounds of the ancient building resides there because her father, the kindly but foolish Dean of Westminster, is always busy keeping the many canons and vergers in check, when not being romantically pursued by forceful widows.”

“Life at the abbey is uneventful, even after the unwelcome arrival of Susan’s cousin Lindley and his unusual scientific demonstrations. That is until the Society of Antiquaries come armed with a letter from King George III. They wish to open the tomb of Edward I, each to investigate their own academic interests – whether it be rumours of the royal body’s embalmment, an obsession with Arthurian legends or even a supposed Roman temple to Apollo beneath the abbey’s undercroft.

“However, as the Society prepares to open the tomb, a ghostly figure is seen walking the abbey cloisters, wearing the crown and shroud of the dead king. There is further uproar when one of the Antiquaries is found viciously murdered, and the corpse of Edward I is stolen”.

Released last month, step back into English history and solve a cozy mystery while you are at it. 🙂

—Maternal, AcornTV

I have been waiting for over a year to watch this British series, and finally it will be available to US viewers. The series Maternal centers around three friends, each who are “returning to work after maternity leave, three friends–Maryam (Parminder Nagra, DI Ray), Catherine (Lara Pulver, Sherlock), and Helen (Lisa McGrillis, George Gently)–face the challenges of balancing motherhood and their jobs in a post-COVID hospital”. Have a look at the trailer below and find it on AcornTV beginning on Tuesday, November 19th.

—Nigel Slater’s Simple Cooking (2011), BBC One

While more than ten years old, Nigel Slater’s one season cooking show (he has had other as well, but not under this title), Simple Cooking is worth watching to not only learn how to eat and cook seasonally, but to enjoy his ease and enjoyment of everyday life. You can find all of the recipes organized by each of the eight episodes here on Nigel Slater’s website. And you can watch the episodes on Pluto TV for free!

In Simple Cooking Nigel Slater “explores classic food marriages and the principles behind them, discovering valuable ground rules that will encourage viewers to create their own mouth-watering combinations at home”. I happened upon watching a couple of episodes last week when it popped up on my television for free viewing and of course, loving Nigel Slater, I find myself watching with mesmerization as he cooked with ingredients find after wandering through his garden. I think you will like this series quite a lot.

Cookbooks

—Half Baked Harvest Quick & Cozy: A Cookbook by Tieghan Gerard

Being released this coming Tuesday, is another cookbook from Tieghan Gerard and this time it is all about quick and cozy — Half Baked Harvest Quick & Cozy. “This collection leans into the comfort food she’s known for, but with an eye toward getting it ready in a hurry and simple ingredients. With many recipes doable in one pot or pan, most in under forty-five minutes, and a more-is-more focus on flavor (but not ingredients), you’ll be feasting fast. Start your day with Maple Bacon Pancakes with Bourbon Maple Syrup, snack on Cheesy Roasted Shallot Bread, and make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Bang Bang Sauceyour family’s new favorite. Enjoy delicious twists like Sheet Pan Mac & Cheese with All the Crispy Edges, and, of course, finish it all off with something sweet, like a Dark Chocolate Pistachio Cake with Cream Cheese Icing”.
 

—Martha: The Cookbook — 100 Favorite Recipes, with Lessons and Stories from the Kitchen by Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart is popping up everyday as of late (learn about her recently released documentary shared in a previous This & That) and it has everything to do with celebrating her 100th cookbook – this cookbook – Martha Stewart: The Cookbook.

In many ways this latest book is a scrapbook containing 100 of her favorite recipes, but also photos and memories from her journey and career that parallels very few if any other person.

“Learn how to cook her mother’s humble Potato Pierogi, her decadent Gougères, a comforting Apple Brioche Bread Pudding, and the famous Paella she makes for the luckiest friends who visit her in summer. You’ll find something to satisfy everyone’s taste, whether it’s a simple meal you make for yourself, a weeknight family dinner, or a special celebration, recipes range from breakfast & brunch to soups & salads, hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, dinner, and of course dessert”.

Décor

—Serena & Lily, Sale of the Year

If there is something you have had your eye on at Serena & Lily, this current sale really is knocking prices down lower than they typically would be. In fact, the wallpaper you will see in my Primary Bedroom Closet reveal tomorrow is from S & L, and if I had waited for this sale (which I couldn’t have known about, but just to compare prices) I would have saved even more than the 20% off I purchased it with. (But I couldn’t wait! :))

Below I have shopped a few items, but be sure to peruse the entire site. No promo code necessary.

Fresh Magnolia Wreath, two sizes (27% off)

~SHOP THE SALE:

—Zara Large Monochrome Table Lamp (two finishes)

There is something simple, yet modern, yet retro all at the same time in this one lamp, and I am loving it. Maybe it has caught your eye as well – available in silver too.

Priced at under $90

Francophile Finds

—At Home with Patricia Wells — Volume II

This past spring, American cookbook author Patricia Wells who has made her life for more than 40 years in Paris and Provence with her husband Walter is selling their Provençal mas and now selling all of the vintage treasures they have amassed over the many decades. This next sale (online and open to the public), Volume II is full of still more special finds, many of which I feel fortunate to have used, enjoyed and dined with during my time cooking with Patricia during one of her many week-long cooking courses. Set the timer for 8:30 AM (pacific time) on Saturday November 16th. And peruse the catalog now here.

—Louise Damas Art Deco Bookmark

Not only does Louise Damas, a French brand introduced by Sharon Santoni in one of her many French Country Home boxes, make jewelry, they also sell beautiful, unique bookmarks. Nestle into your book and easily and quickly open up again when you are ready to dive back in. If the Art Deco design doesn’t speak to you, they have others and in silver as well.

Holiday

—The Common Place Books, a fantastic holiday stocking stuffer

Last year at this time I was tickled to learn about the CommonPlace book as TSLL member Nicola gifted one to me and I continue to use it for random thoughts, quotes that speak to me, ideas and anything else that pops into my mind. This particular company sells beautifully jacketed books (blank, lined notebooks) that are just the right size and full of oodles of pages. I have shopped a few styles below, but be sure to check out all 10 pages worth of books to find the one that speaks to you.

—The Merry Gentlemen, Netflix

Okay, okay, okay, I know this may look a bit cheesy, but once you look at the trailer, I think you might find it a bit of fun and a bit different from other light-hearted holiday movies. Look for it to be released today on Netflix. I had to share, just in case you might be interested 😉.

—Vintage Hanging Bells on Jute from French Mercantile

If you are looking for holiday bells for the door or anywhere to add a special festive touch, these bells from French Mercantile will be sure to add the jingle!

Shopping

—Boden’s Imogen Collared Jersey Midi-Dress

A classic cut of a mid-dress and available at a great low price. Navy or navy & white stripe.

—Co’s Fitted Shirt in Cotton Poplin with mother of pearl buttons

While a bit of an investment, this high quality cotton poplin shirt that is designed to be tucked into pants or a skirt (so, no long tails or front fabric), will create the classic silhouette without all of the extra fabric that is often in excess when tucked in.

—Hartmann Tweed Legend Travel Duffel, 25% off

If you are looking for a stylish (and luxurious) travel tote to carry your on-plane/train toiletries, electronics and emergency clothing, and other must-have near travel supplies (books, tea bags, etc.), Hartman’s Tweed Legend collection’s duffel is now on sale. And on top of the 25% savings, you can save 20% off the total with promo code EXTRA20.

Designed to slide onto the handle of your carry-on luggage as you roll through the terminals, it will sit securely and with ease on top, or throw over your shoulder with the shoulder strap.

—Zara’s Planning Collection

A new year is nearly here, and it is time to purchase our planning supplies! Zara just released a new collection of planning products, and below are two pieces – the A5 Day-to-Page Planner (three colors) and the weekly (second below). But there are many more items, so be sure to explore them all here.

A5 Week-to-Page Planner (three colors)

Television

—Leonardo da Vinci by Ken Burns on PBS

Ken Burns is back with a new documentary, and his first exploring a person or event not associated with the United States. Working this time alongside his daughter and son-in-law, the trio explore the life of Leonardo da Vinci. Have a look at the trailer below and watch it beginning this Sunday on PBS.

~A Man on the Inside, Netflix

While described as a comedy series, and indeed it is, this new show starring Ted Danson is actually based on a true story that took place in Venezuela. Premiering next Thursday (the 19th) on Netflix, enjoy eight episodes of Danson starring as a retired professor who gets a new lease on life when a private investigator hires him to go undercover inside a San Francisco retirement home.

With laughs aplenty no doubt, it is the deeper message underling all that the investigator discovers that Danson explains is why he was drawn to this role. Listen to his interview with CBS Sunday Morning here.

The leaves still carpet some parks floors, so we went on a leaf-hunting walk the other day and found these beauties; however, snow is aplenty right now in the mountains near Bend, and we just might have to go hunt for that this weekend which means cue the winter photos! (I stocked up on the pups winter booties last week, and now all I have to do is get my skis waxed, which I am quite tardy about this year. ☺️)

The week was full of all sorts of twists and turns of unexpected events and news, but thankfully everything turned out to be good news to celebrate initially or in the end. And because of this past week, I am just savoring Friday’s arrival and grateful for my neighbors who are the most amazing people to live life around, and to be able to blog and share regularly all that you stop by to enjoy.

Speaking of blog content! Be sure to stop by this weekend for the full primary closet tour, and as I shared on IG this week, decisions are being made regarding the details of the guest bedroom which means we’re one step closer to bringing it all together! (still a long ways off, but each decision draws us closer!) In fact, the Japanese maple tree planted right outside the guest bedroom window began to turn its brilliant iridescent orange hue this past week which prompted me to become all the more excited about the colors I have chosen for the room as this outdoor space is a detail indeed to consider in the interior decor when pulling together the room as it is the view that will greet folks when they step inside.

The rain arrived in full storm mode this week here in town (enough snow up on Bachelor for an early opening tomorrow which is great news for this resort town), and so oodles of snuggly moments have occurred at Le Papillon. Loving this time of year for exactly this reason – cozy nibbles, time to read galore and of course, cups of tea abound. 🙂

I hope your week has gone well, and you’ve both found time to feel productive but also rested and nourished, taking time to care for yourself as you rest up for the holidays that will soon be beginning. I think this weekend will involve a bit of planning ahead – choosing my holiday cards, finishing up the gift list and generally just reminding myself to follow the road that involves gratitude as well as celebration as it aligns with living well on terms that suit my temperament. I encourage you to do the same as whatever makes the holidays special to you is just as important as how others define it for themselves.

Wishing you a wonderful weekend, and below in the links and a video I have some exciting news about a new film being released next year that you might enjoy, along with many other articles to read and explore. Thank you for stopping by today and until tomorrow, bonne journée.

~Dorie Greenspan shares 28 places to eat, and drink in Paris [Further]

~And while we’re in Paris, a newly remodeled Saint-Germain-des-Prés apartment full of unique furniture and details all while also being somewhat quintessentially Parisian as well [Vogue Living]

~Ines de la Fressange’s Paris: French style and culinary joys [Michelin]

~Find out when France will open their Christmas markets. [The Local]

~15 charming French Christmas traditions [PureWow]

~A workaholic’s guide to reclaiming your life [Harvard’s Business Review]

~David Lebovitz shared his recipe for a French Apple Cake. Yum!

~Oprah’s Favorite Things’ List for 2024 is here!

~Everything you need to know about French butter [Frenchly]

~How to make your bedroom feel more luxurious [House & Garden UK]

~Mid-November is the time of year when the Beaujolais Nouveau celebrations take place. An annual tradition since 1984. Learn all about the tradition here.

~And now I cannot wait until February 13th because a new Bridget Jones film will be released – Mad About the Boy. Yep! I will let the trailer do the talking. 🙂 Enjoy!

~Explore last week’s This & That: November 8, 2024

Cookbooks for sweet treats and, their antithesis, vegetables too! A new series to take you around the world touring gorgeous, inspirational homes with a playful Scottish host, a new comedy series that is sure to leave you in stitches (the best kind 😉). And we cannot forget the books! Titles focused on art sharing how it elevates our life, as well as how it has depicted food through the centuries, novels to prompt pondering about living, love and home searching, and clothing finds – bien sûr – classic items to ensure you are stylish and comfortable. 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.