RS - May 2018 by Lawrence Ambrocio

realsimple LIFE MADE EASIER

25+ EASY RECIPES

THE MAKEOVER ISSUE

Spring into Action Renovate on a Budget Feel Prettier in 5 Minutes Grow Your Income

The Daily Habit That Keeps You Organized

MAY 2018

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Thoughts

“You grow up the day you have your first real laugh at yourself.”

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Photograph by Rob Howard

F A S H I O N S T Y L I N G B Y A LY S S A D I N E E N ; H A I R B Y M AT T H E W M O N Z O N ; M A K E U P B Y K AT I E J A N E H U G H E S

H I S I S OU R M A K E OV E R I S S U E — even though the word “makeover” makes me cringe a little. I worry that it suggests I’m judging other people’s furniture, or clothes, or makeup. There’s no uniform for grown-up life, no perfect way to decorate a dining room. That said, of course your appearance and surroundings matter to you—and there’s a real benefit to getting pro advice (that’s what we do at Real Simple!). After my husband and I bought a house in Washington, D.C., years ago, we arranged furniture, hung prints, added ceiling fans, and voilà—we were done. Or were we? The rooms didn’t feel pulled together. So we found an interior designer through a friend, who swept through the house with a giant wheel of paint colors and bright ideas. We learned a lot about our own taste (we like paint colors that have more gray undertones so the colors don’t look too lollipop) and what to do with awkwardly shaped rooms (a cowhide rug helps). Soon I found myself inviting people over more often. This month, Real Simple celebrates the makeover with five moms (page 122), an entire house in Nashville (page 108), and your outdoor space—whether a balcony or a big yard (page 43). But a makeover doesn’t have to be huge. Recently I swapped the messy stack of books on my windowsill for a small, beautiful plant. It’s the last thing I notice at night and the first thing I see in the morning (not counting my husband). And it brings me a little dash of added joy. Don’t underestimate the power of the five-minute makeover!

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Contents May 2018

O N T H E C OV E R

Renovate on a budget

108

Feel prettier in five minutes

122

Grow your income

The daily habit that keeps you organized

25-plus easy recipes (Throughout the issue)

108 A whole house transformed

116

122

Satisfying spring dinners

Beauty before-and-afters

Fun, comfortable summer shoes

C OV E R C R E D I T S Cover Photograph by Johnny Miller Prop St yling by Sarah Smar t

M AY 2 0 1 8 R E A L S I M P L E

Contents

The surprising benefits of journaling

Simple tips for bolder brows

A chaos-free craft area

Thoughts Editor’s Note

Real Simple 24 /7

Your Words

The Short List

what we love Best of the Month

Little Helpers Clever items that make every day better 30 The Staple Rolled oats

Pretty Smart Beauty buys to save your sanity 34 New Uses for Old Things Coffee filters

the realist How to Clean a Grill Fast

Take It Outside Little luxuries that make your outdoor space more inviting 43 Now What?!? Solutions for life’s mini disasters

Summer Shoe Guide Easy-to-wear styles for warmer weather 63

relating 51

Organize This Turn your craft room into a work of art 52 Things Cooks Know The best ways to use fresh herbs 54 Food for Thought Readers share ideas for getting the whole family eating together 56 Beauty Coach Fuller brows in only three steps

Road Test Our editors select the best skin boosters 60

Make Your Road Trip the Best Vacation Ever Keep spirits high despite bumps in the road 73 Good Read Meg Wolitzer on becoming a mentor 80 Modern Manners Catherine Newman offers advice The Vets Will See You Now Pet problems, solved

balance The Many Joys of Journaling Getting organized is only the beginning

Like Peas in a Pod The perfect pairings for spring produce 116

Are You Well Paid? Know and negotiate the salary you deserve 95 Making It Work How do you get the most out of your commute? Why Do So Many People Have High Blood Pressure? Nearly half of us have hypertension. Tips to stay healthy Ahhh Take a breather

98 107

features Money-Saving Makeover How Elsie Larson transformed a Nashville home

A Fresh Start Five hardworking moms get the makeovers they craved 122 Suit Yourself Cute swimwear for every summer activity 128

food 5 Easy Dinners

139

Make it Yourself Hummus

144

Road Test Mac and cheese

148

Big Batch Grain medley

150

The Struggle Is Real

154

108

REAL SIMPLE® (ISSN 1528-1701) IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY (VOLUME 19, ISSUE 5) BY TIME INC., A WHOLLY OWNED SUBSIDIARY OF MEREDITH CORPORATION. PRINCIPAL OFFICE: 225 LIBERTY STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10281. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT NEW YORK, NY, AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. POSTMASTER: SEND ALL UAA TO CFS (SEE DMM 507.1.5.2); NONPOSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: SEND ADDRESS CORRECTIONS TO REAL SIMPLE MAGAZINE, P.O. BOX 62120, TAMPA, FL 33662-2120. CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40110178. GST#888381621RT0001. SUBSCRIBERS: IF THE POSTAL SERVICE ALERTS US THAT YOUR MAGAZINE IS UNDELIVERABLE, WE HAVE NO FURTHER OBLIGATION UNLESS WE RECEIVE A CORRECTED ADDRESS WITHIN TWO YEARS. YOUR BANK MAY PROVIDE UPDATES TO THE CARD INFORMATION WE HAVE ON FILE. YOU MAY OPT OUT OF THIS SERVICE AT ANY TIME. MAILING LIST: WE MAKE A PORTION OF OUR MAILING LIST AVAILABLE TO REPUTABLE FIRMS. CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SUBSCRIPTIONS: FOR 24/7 SERVICE, PLEASE USE OUR WEBSITE, REALSIMPLE .COM/CUSTOMERSERVICE. YOU CAN ALSO CALL 1-800-881-1172 OR WRITE TO REAL SIMPLE AT P.O. BOX 62120, TAMPA, FL 33662-2120. © 2018 TIME INC. FOR INTERNATIONAL LICENSING AND SYNDICATION REQUESTS, PLEASE EMAIL SYNDICATION@MEREDITH.COM OR CALL 1-212-522-5868. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED. REAL SIMPLE® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF TIME INC. PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.

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MEET

H E AT H E R M O RG A N S H O T T SHOPPING GUIDE

C L O C K W I S E F R O M T O P L E F T : C O U R T E S Y O F H E AT H E R M O R G A N S H O T T ; P H O T O G R A P H B Y A L I S O N M I K S C H , F O O D S T Y L I N G B Y C H E L S E A Z I M M E R , P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y H E AT H E R C H A D D U C K H I L L E G A S ; C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U F A C T U E R ; G R A N T C O R N E T T ; C O U R T E S Y O F R E A L S I M P L E . C O M

D I G I TA L D I R ECTO R AT R E A L S I M P L E . C O M

It’s easier than ever to buy your favorite items from the issue. We’ve compiled all the featured products in one place. Snag those earrings or that organizing find that caught your eye with one click.

All I want for Mother’s Day: A shower without an audience (hey, a girl can dream). Dream design update: The bedroom my kids share! My daughter is ready to transition out of her toddler bed, so we’re looking at cute bunk beds, plus colorful new shelving and wall decor. Favorite way to unwind: Pure Barre. I’m totally obsessed. @HEATHERMORGANSHOT T ON INSTAGRAM

Head to realsimple.com/ shoptheissue.

One-dish dinner This is healthy eating made simple— delicious salmon and cabbage roasted together on a sheet pan. Good news: The dishes are done. Go to realsimple.com/sheetpansalmon.

#RSHOME We want to see what inspires you! Show us how you design your home, from the front door to the living room. Tag your photos with #rshome for a chance to be featured on our Instagram feed.

Sweet DIY cards PINTEREST @REALSIMPLE

Make your mom smile with a homemade Mother’s Day card. Bonus points if you toss in a spa gift certificate. Get how-tos at realsimple .com/mothersdaycards.

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and tap

for Mother’s Day ideas.

TWITTER @REALSIMPLE

FAC E B O O K @REALSIMPLE

S N A P C H AT @REALSIMPLEMAG

I N S TA G R A M @ R E A L _S I M P L E

M AY 2 0 1 8 R E A L S I M P L E

Yo u r W o r d s

What’s the best beauty advice your mother gave you? Prunes are plums that didn’t use moisturizer.

Wear comfortable shoes; it will show on your face. C A RO L I N E W U, B O STO N

@SHENNINGERNC

Back away from the mirror. No one gets that close to your face, and if they do, they aren’t likely to be thinking about the size of your pores. Healthy skin is important, but flawless skin isn’t real or required. STEPH WIL SON, MADISON, WISCONSIN

# R S L OV E

“ FA D I N G B E AU T I E S ” @ L I V I N G BY W

Take care of your teeth. My mom worked for a dentist while I was growing up, so attention to our teeth was a priority. Whenever I’m tired or not feeling well, I try to remember to smile—I instantly look and feel better.

My mother always impressed upon me the importance of good posture. Beauty isn’t how thin you are or how you wear your hair and makeup. It’s all in how you carry yourself. I’ve passed that advice down to my daughter. ALISON JOHNSON, FEEDING HILL S, MAS SACHUSE T TS

You look your best with great foundations. Wear well-fitting bras and undies. SUE WILLIAMS, PHOENIX

LISA BAILEY, ASHL AND, OREGON

Use sunscreen all year long. L I N D S AY H A L L , C H I C AG O

2 4 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

At 9 years old, I was in tears because my 20-year-old sister cut my bangs so short that they stuck straight out. Mom said, “There is nothing more easily cured than a bad haircut.” That advice has long helped me evaluate the seriousness of not only beauty problems but also other things in life. GARI ABER, WORTHINGTON, OHIO

Exercise. She got us skiing, playing in the snow, Hula-Hooping, playing tennis, and riding horses. I knew this was why she was so beautiful. My beauty secret now and for the last 43 years is my daily run. A . HAK AN, K ANSAS CIT Y, MIS SOURI

Take care of your skin. If your canvas isn’t well maintained, nothing you put on it will look good. LYNN MARIE, GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN

My mom and I had the same very thin hair, and she told me to rinse with beer after shampooing. It gave my hair body and a very nice shine. My dad would say, “What a waste of good beer,” with a smile on his face. JUDY CICIA , TOLL AND, CONNECTICUT

Dinner Made Simple 35 Everyday Ingredients, 350 Easy Recipes by the Editors of

The women who shared the photos in this column will receive our book Dinner Made Simple. Want to be considered for this column? Tag photos on Instagram with #RSLOVE.

The summer I turned 10, I came home after swimming at the local pool clearly upset that someone had shamed me over the two large moles on my legs. I confided in my mom about how ugly I felt they were. She lovingly replied, “I’ve always thought of them as beauty marks.” JENNIFER ANDERSON, FAYE T TEVILLE, GEORGIA

My mother never said one bad thing about her body or mine. I grew up feeling beautiful no matter what size I was. Now that I have two daughters of my own, I pass on that same body positivity. SARAH PE TERS, RO CHESTER, NE W YORK

When I was complaining about the price of haircuts, my mom said, “You wear your hair every day.” This has always been a reminder to invest in the things that will pay off daily as opposed to once in a blue moon.

# R S L OV E “ C E L E B R AT I N G A W E D N E S DAY W I T H T H I S ST R AW B E R RY S ’ M O R E S TA RT ” @ A P L E A S A N T L I T T L E K I TC H E N

TORY WAT TS D ONOHUE, HOBOKEN, NE W JERSEY

NEXT QUESTION... What line or lesson from a book has stuck with you?

Make Sunday evening “selfimprovement night.” Take the time to do little things that make you feel better about yourself. Draw a bath, give yourself a manipedi or facial. It starts the week off right.

Send an email to yourwords@ realsimple.com and let us know your answer to this question. Your response could appear on these pages.

MEGAN PALMER GL AS S, CAMILLUS, NE W YORK

Real beauty comes from within, and red lipstick doesn’t hurt. @ RO S A N N A A P P

M AY 2 0 1 8 R E A L S I M P L E

The Short List F I V E B O O K S T H AT W O N ’ T D I S A P P O I N T By Elizabeth Sile

Beach read

Aja Gabel’s The Ensemble follows Brit, Daniel, Henry, and Jana—four string players who form the Van Ness Quartet— as they navigate breakups, marriages, deaths, failures, and successes over two decades. Gabel’s rich characters and melodic prose (fitting for a story about professional chamber musicians) make the novel a satisfying read. Comparisons to Meg Wolitzer’s The Interestings are apt.

Essay collection Historical fiction Paula McLain’s beloved The Paris Wife focused on Ernest Hemingway’s dramatic marriage with his first wife, Hadley. In Love and Ruin, McLain returns to the author’s love life—this time turning to Martha Gellhorn, his third wife. McLain’s engrossing novel dives into their relationship but also spotlights a woman ahead of her time— a fearless reporter who covered the major conflicts of the 20th century.

In his collection of new and previously published essays, Calypso, David Sedaris (Theft by Finding, Let’s Explore Diabetes with Owls) discusses middle age, sibling bonding, and buying a beach house he later nicknames Sea Section. Sedaris is as funny as ever but also delves into serious topics— including his sister’s suicide and his relationship with his 95-year-old father—with sensitivity.

Gripping thriller There are plenty of unreliable female narrators in the pages of psychological thrillers. But Araminta Hall’s Our Kind of Cruelty is the rare one to feature a broken man. Mike Hayes has a high-paying job, a beautiful new house, and a soulmate, Verity— only she’s about to marry another man. To Mike, the fact that she’s dodging his calls is just an elaborate tease. Hall’s novel is a page-turner with a timely message.

Every summer, Ruthie Beamish rents out her seaside home, uprooting her daughter and ex-husband (he and Ruthie are separated but living together). When her new renter, the wealthy widow Adeline, moves in, Ruthie’s life is suddenly in chaos. The High Season, National Book Award winner Judy Blundell’s first novel for adults, is a wry, often hilarious story of a woman trying to keep it together when everything is going so, so wrong.

For more book recommendations, visit realsimple.com/ newbooks.

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Photograph by Eric Helgas

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INDULGE

Upgrade your home sundae bar with this sorbetinspired collection from Le Creuset. The ice cream bowls and spoons (pictured here), mugs, and ramekins are available in six sweet pastel shades. The signature Le Creuset stoneware is easy to clean, microwave and oven safe, and scratch and stain resistant, making this dishware perfect for daily use. TO BUY: $60 for 4 bowls, $30 for 6 spoons; lecreuset.com.

P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y J E N N Y W I C H M A N AT A R T D E PA R T M E N T ; F O O D S T Y L I N G B Y M I C H E L L E G AT T O N

GET SCREENED

May is Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention Month, and the Skin Cancer Foundation is kicking off its Destination: Healthy Skin program. An RV, equipped with two exam rooms, will travel around the country providing free skin cancer information and screenings. Find out when the RV will be in your neighborhood at destinationhealthyskin.org. KEEP IN TOUCH

Pixinote transforms your cell phone photos into high-quality snail-mail cards in just minutes. Simply download the app, pick an image from your phone, and write up to three lines of accompanying text. Your personalized card, sent in an airmail-themed envelope, will show up in your loved one’s mailbox in just three to five days. TO BUY: From $3; pixinote.com.

Photograph by Eric Helgas

M AY 2 0 1 8 R E A L S I M P L E

W H AT W E LO V E

W I N E F I LT E R

Get headaches or flushed skin when you drink wine? Swirl this wand in a glass of red or white to absorb histamines and sulfites that cause side effects. Works with beer too. TO BUY: The Wand by PureWine, $10 for 3; drinkpurewine.com.

S TAY- P U T N O T E S

Little Helpers S I X S M A RT P RO D U C T S TO M A K E YO U R L I F E E A S I E R By Brandi Broxson

FO OD SLICER

Neatly cut pizza, quiche, or quesadillas with these dishwasher-safe scissors. A heat-resistant base means you won’t scratch your cutting surface. TO BUY: Fiskars NonScratch Kitchen Shears, $25; fiskars.com.

POCKET HAMMOCK

Relax while camping or reading in the park with this 4-by-8-foot nylon lounger. It holds up to 400 pounds and folds neatly into a 10-ounce pack. TO BUY: Roo Single, $69, and Python 10 Tree-Friendly 10-ft. straps, $29; kammok.com.

3 0 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

S TA I N Z A P P E R

This magical formula removes tough splotches from clothing, carpets, and upholstery. TO BUY: Little Red Wipe of Emergency Stain Rescue, $5 for 5, and Little Red Bottle of Emergency Stain Rescue, $9 for 4 oz.; hatestains.com.

P R O D U CT I M AG E S C O U RT E SY O F M A N U FACT U R E R S

TODDLER TOTE

This canvas kids’ bag has ample space for snacks and games and can be carried as a tote or a backpack. It even expands into a back-seat organizer. Comes in a variety of prints. TO BUY: The Tot Tote, $45; therolliepollie.com.

These colorful, 100 percent recyclable memos use static electricity instead of glue to stay in place. Plus, they’re double-sided: One surface is for dry-erase markers, and the other is for pen. TO BUY: SlickyNotes, $10 for a 5-pack of 4-by-4-in. pads; thegrommet.com.

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Inspired design meets one-of-a-kind innovation in Delta ® ShieldSpray ™ Technology. A concentrated spray powers away mess while a unique shield of water helps contain splatter. To see what ShieldSpray Technology can do, visit deltafaucet.com/shieldspray.

W H AT W E LO V E

Quick Ideas

The Staple Humble rolled oats can be the foundation for more than just muesli and hot cereal. Cooked pilafstyle, like rice, they become a hearty base for savory breakfast bowls. We take ours with spinach and eggs but won’t tell if you add a couple of slices of crispy bacon. Use oats in place of bread crumbs for a gluten-free veggie burger—just be sure to look for oats labeled “gluten-free,” as some are processed in facilities that handle wheat. Craving something with a little get-up-and-go? Whip up our cafeine-injected smoothie, a healthy warmweather breakfast we can deinitely get behind.

1 S AVO RY OAT M E A L WITH SPINACH AND P OA C H E D EG G S

Cook chopped onion in 2 Tbsp. olive oil until soft, about 5 minutes. Add 1 cup rolled oats; cook 1 minute. Stir in 2 cups water and simmer until tender, 8 minutes. Stir in cup grated Parmesan, tsp. kosher salt, and tsp. black pepper. Serve topped with spinach, poached eggs, more Parmesan, and chives. 2 BL ACK BEAN– OAT B U RG E R

3 C O F F E E , OAT, A N D M A P L E S M O OT H I E

Stir together cup warm milk and cup rolled oats; let stand 10 minutes. Transfer to a blender and add cup cold-brew coffee, 3 Tbsp. maple syrup, 1 sliced banana, and 1 cup ice; blend until smooth and frothy.

By D awn Perr y Recipes by Anna Theoktisto

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Photograph by Corey Olsen

P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y C E C I L I A E L G U E R O F O R K AT E R YA N I N C .

Pulse 2 15-oz. cans black beans (drained and rinsed), cup rolled oats, 2 chopped garlic cloves, 1 Tbsp. soy sauce, and 2 tsp. chili powder in a food processor until just combined. Transfer to a bowl; stir in 3 sliced scallions. Shape into 4 patties and let stand 5 minutes. Cook patties in 2 Tbsp. oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high, 5 minutes per side. Serve on gluten-free buns with salsa, lettuce, sliced red onion, and tomato.

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W H AT W E LO V E

Pretty Smart A B RU S H T H AT ’ S G E N T L E O N B O T H H A I R A N D T H E E N V I RO N M E N T AND SE VEN OTHER BE AUT Y BUYS TO S AV E YO U R S A N I T Y By Heather Muir Maffei

W E T B RU S H G O G R E E N D E TA N G L E R

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Its flexible bristles bend around and over knots so you can detangle wet hair without pulling. Bonus: It’s made from a biodegradable plant starch. TO BUY: $15; thewetbrush.com.

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Photograph by Eric Helgas

,1&5(',%/( '(67,1$7,216 817$0(' %($87< $1' (1'85,1* ,&216 ² 7+(6( $5( :+$7 0$.( $ 6287+ '$.27$ 9$&$7,21 62 *5($7

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W H AT W E LO V E Dip into liner, then align with the edge of your eye and quickly press on.

B U RT ’ S B E E S MOISTURIZING LIP MASK

A sheet mask…for your lips! Smooth it on while watching television, then peel it off after five minutes. Meadowfoam-seed and almond oils turn even the driest lips baby smooth. TO BUY: $3; burtsbees.com.

A creamy cover-up that hides dark circles but doesn’t settle into fine lines? Ding ding ding! The formula comes in 17 shades and is sweatresistant, so it won’t run on a hot day. TO BUY: $19.50 each; sephora.com. RO D I A L V I T C BRIGHTENING C L E A N S I N G PA D S

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If you love winged liner but don’t have the time or patience to fuss, ace the look with this clever tool. Dip the tip (there’s one for each eye) into liquid liner, then stamp it at the corner of your eye. Done! TO BUY: $25; thevampstamp.com. D R . D O R I S DAY RETINOL B O DY S E RU M

Laced with vitamin C and salicylic, glycolic, lactic, and fruit acids, the pads gently exfoliate to brighten skin, and they help clear breakouts. Sweep over skin after cleansing. TO BUY: $56 for 50 pads; rodial.co.uk.

Retinol is the gold standard anti-ager for the face—now give your body some love. Apply this jumbo gel to arms and chest to help smooth lines. TO BUY: $105; myclearskin.com.

L E B O N O RGA N I C T O OT H PA S T E I N T RO P I C A L C RU S H

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Elevate your brushing with this paste, which comes in six flavors. Each has aloe and green tea to protect gums and stevia for a naturally sweet taste. TO BUY: $21; beautyhabit.com.

Created for natural and relaxed Black hair, this argan oil shampoo gently cleanses to remove buildup without stripping strands. TO BUY: $8; at drugstores.

3 6 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

R E T I N O L A N D S TA M P : D YA D P H O T O G R A P H Y ; S M E A R : G R E G M A R I N O ; PA D S : B R I A N H E N N ; P R O D U C T I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U F A C T U R E R S

C L I N I Q U E B E YO N D P E R F EC T I N G S U P E R CONCEALER

W H AT W E LO V E

New Uses for Old Things

Coffee Filters YO U K N O W T H E M A S T H E K E Y TO A W E L L- C A F F E I N AT E D M O R N I N G. B U T H E R E , PA P E R F I LT E R S M O O N L I G H T A S U S E F U L H O U S E H O L D H A C K S . By Brandi Broxson

CHINA CUSHION

Layer a filter between mugs, bowls, and plates to prevent chips and nicks.

M I R RO R C L E A N E R

More durable than a paper towel and not lint-shedding like a cloth, a filter works well with glass spray on mirrors and windows.

Fill filters with baking soda, tie with ribbon or floss, and stash in smelly spots, like sneakers or a trash can.

SNACK BOWL

Because of its bowllike shape, a filter is a great serving vessel for popcorn or other kiddie snacks. No dish to wash!

Learn how to make barista-quality cold brew coffee at realsimple.com/ coldbrew.

3 8 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

Photographs by Corey Olsen

P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y C E C I L I A E L G U E R O F O R K AT E R YA N I N C .

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Auto • Home • Rent • Cycle • Boat geico.com | 1-800-947-AUTO (2886) | local office Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states or all GEICO companies. Homeowners and renters coverages are written through non-affiliated insurance companies and are secured through the GEICO Insurance Agency, Inc. Boat and PWC coverages are underwritten by GEICO Marine Insurance Company. Motorcycle and ATV coverages are underwritten by GEICO Indemnity Company. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, D.C. 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2017 GEICO

U N C O M M O N S O L U T I O N S T O E V E RY D AY P RO B L E M S

H OW TO CLE A N A G R ILL FA ST The secret to banishing stubborn grate grease? A roll of aluminum foil, says Meathead Goldwyn, a grill expert at AmazingRibs.com and the author of Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling. First, lay a sheet of heavy-duty foil on the grates of your gas or charcoal grill, then layer bricks (a cast-iron skillet or heat-safe heavy pan also works) on top so the foil doesn’t float up with the hot air. Heat the grill with the lid closed for five minutes. Then, while wearing heat-safe gloves, remove the foil with tongs and crumple it into a wad. Grasp the foil in the tongs and use it to scrub both sides of the grates. Repeat with new wads of foil until the grates are clean. As for the outside? Once the grill has cooled, dampen a sponge with unsweetened club soda, which will buff away water spots and fingerprints.

S H E A E VA N S / O F F S E T

By Brandi Broxson

For the easiest (and tastiest) method for grilling summer corn, visit realsimple.com/ grillcorn.

M AY 2 0 1 8 R E A L S I M P L E

We’re all about comfort

thecompanystore.com

HELLO, LINEN SEASON!

15% off + free shipping* *Enter code TRSMAY18 in your shopping cart. Shop with us online at thecompanystore.com or call 1-800-799-1399. Expires 6/30/18. Exclusions may apply, please see website for details. Shown: Connection Linen Bedding, Solid Linen Pillowcase, and Organic Blanket.

THE REALIST

Take It Outside T H E S E S T Y L I S H A D D I T I O N S H E L P A N Y O U T D O O R S PA C E F E E L L I K E A L I V I N G RO O M—O N E YO U ’L L H A N G O U T I N A L L S E A S O N LO N G. By Stephanie Sisco 1 W OV E N S E AT

The vibrant pattern gives patio furniture a fresh feel. TO BUY: Two-Tone Peaks dining chair, $199; westelm.com.

2 HANGING CHAIR

FOR YOUR BALCONY O R PAT I O

Set it up when you need a seat; tuck it away when you don’t. TO BUY: Lanta hanging chair, $179; yellowleaf hammocks.com. 3 C A F É TA B L E

The perfect perch for a.m. coffee. TO BUY: Watermark brass bistro table, $249; cb2.com. 4 STRING LIGHTS

Give your terrace an inviting glow. TO BUY: Edison-Style string lights, from $20; worldmarket.com.

2 4

5 DIY DECKING

7 6

Easy-to-install wooden tiles instantly cover not-so-pretty flooring. TO BUY: Runnen decking, $30 (9 sq. ft.); ikea.com. 6 PL ANT L ADDER

A vertical garden keeps fresh herbs within reach. TO BUY: Satsumas plant stand, $40; ikea.com. 7 D U R A B L E RU N N E R

P R O D U CT I M AG E S C O U RT E SY O F M A N U FACT U R E R S

Add warmth to a bland balcony with a colorful jute rug. TO BUY: Jute runner, $56; blueribbongeneralstore.com. 8 PA L M P L AT T E R

Serve your guests familystyle on a melamine tray. TO BUY: Palm Leaf melamine platter, $38; shopterrain.com. 9 FLO OR PILLOW

Learn how to light up your outdoor space like a pro at realsimple.com/light.

Illustrations by Anna Higgie

An oversize raffia cushion provides a spare seat. TO BUY: Harbour Island floor pillow, $208; serenaandlily.com.

M AY 2 0 1 8 R E A L S I M P L E

THE REALIST

1 W H I M S I C A L D O O R M AT

Set the tone for your outdoor decor with a painterly entry mat. TO BUY: Wildflower doormat, $20; potterybarn.com.

2 PA S T E L C U S H I O N S

Woven throw pillows bring a touch of texture to your porch seating. TO BUY: Outdoor ribbon stripe pillows, $19 each; westelm.com. 5 3 CEMENT PL ANTERS

Liven up a bare corner with a trio of planters in staggered heights. TO BUY: Gesso planters, $125 for 3; zgallerie.com. 4 R AT TA N S E T T E E 6

A modern take on traditional wicker. TO BUY: Mastholmen love seat, $140; ikea.com. 5 R AIN CHAIN

These pretty copper links act as a gutter, guiding rainwater from the roof. TO BUY: Link rain chain, $76; wayfair.com. 6 L I G H T W E I G H T T H RO W

It gets softer with every wash. TO BUY: Tasseled linen throw, $98; shopterrain.com.

FRONT P ORCH 8

Add a gentle glow to your porch with candlelight from these bent-bamboo lanterns. TO BUY: Bamboo and veganleather lanterns, $45 each; worldmarket.com. 8 WAT E R I N G C A N

A sleek tool you’ll want to store out in the open. TO BUY: Haws solid-copper watering can, $98; shopterrain.com.

9 GARDEN STO OL 9

4 4 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

Use it as a side table, spare seat, or plant stand. TO BUY: White garden stool, $90; pier1.com.

P R O D U CT I M AG E S C O U RT E SY O F M A N U FACT U R E R S

7 C U RV Y L A N T E R N S

FOR YOUR

4 THE REALIST

3 1

1 GINGHAM UMBRELL A

Make a statement in your green space. TO BUY: Poleng gingham umbrella shade with pole, $240; cb2.com. 2 L AW N B O W L I N G

Entertain kids of all ages with this set of wooden pins. TO BUY: Toy bowling set, $49; momastore.org.

FOR YOUR B A C K YA R D

3 MODERN SWING

Choose from four rope shades for this beautiful and sturdy swing. TO BUY: Lillagunga swing, $159; finnish designshop.com. 4 S Q UA R E P O U F

Situate a few of these waterproof ottomans near the pool. TO BUY: Preppy stripe indoor/outdoor pouf, $206; shadesoflight.com. 5 FIRE PIT

S’mores not included. TO BUY: Cast-iron wood-burning fire pit, $207; allmodern.com.

6 MOBILE COOLER

Retro-cool, and there’s a built-in bottle opener. TO BUY: Hearth & Hand with Magnolia green-footed cooler, $140; target.com. 7 HANGING LIGHT

7 9 8

8 P I C N I C TA B L E

With a steel base and a wooden top, this sturdy table is built to last. TO BUY: Antique white Avignon outdoor dining collection, from $140; world market.com. 9 H E AT L A M P

Fend off the evening chill in style. TO BUY: Lamar propane patio heater, $235; wayfair.com.

4 6 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

P R O D U CT I M AG E S C O U RT E SY O F M A N U FACT U R E R S

Loop this cordless lamp over a tree branch—a full charge lasts up to 24 hours. TO BUY: Bolleke lamp, $80; finnish designshop.com.

VorMax® Plus Toilet

The cleanest, freshest flush ever engineered. Introducing the VorMax® Plus self-cleaning toilet In Porcelain Valley, our dedicated men & women strive to improve your everyday life. (And that includes eliminating your least favorite chore.) The VorMax® Plus self-cleaning toilet is engineered with a flushing system that cleans 2x better* with just water. Plus, the VorMax® Plus FreshInfuser™ releases LYSOL® toilet bowl cleaner into the bowl with every flush. See how it works at americanstandard.com

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10 pc. non-stick cookware set: 9.5" fry pan, 1.25 qt. saucepan, 5 qt. Dutch oven, 2 qt. saucepan, 8" fry pan, 2 nylon spoons

THE REALIST

Now What?!? S M A RT F I X E S F O R L I F E ’ S L I T T L E D I S A ST E R S By Liz Steelman

Something stung me while I was gardening! I’m having a party and don’t know how many ribs to buy.

J.Y., VIA EMAIL

Move inside after you’re stung in case you’ve come upon a nest. Then inspect your skin to see whether there’s a stinger. If there is, a honeybee was likely the culprit. Gently squeeze the area around the sting to loosen the stinger, then remove it with clean tweezers, says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. No stinger? You were probably stung by a wasp. Either way, wash the area with a gentle cleanser (Zeichner likes Dove’s Sensitive Skin Beauty Bar, $1.30; target.com) and apply an ice pack for 10 minutes to reduce inflammation. If your skin is raw or open, put on a bandage; otherwise, let the area breathe. Pop an anti-inflammatory, like ibuprofen, to help relieve pain and swelling. If your voice becomes hoarse or you have difficulty breathing, take an antihistamine and go to a doctor.

J O H A N N A H O O D / O F F S E T. S P E C I A L T H A N K S T O M I A F I N K E L S T O N , M D , O F L I V E H E A LT H O N L I N E

THE FIX:

L .C., VIA EMAIL

If you’re serving other meat options as well, each full slab of pork spare ribs should feed about five guests, says Katie Brogan, a catering manager at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-BQue. Plan for each guest to eat the meat off two bones. However, if the meal’s focus is on ribs, plan on prepping a full slab (up to 13 bones) for every three guests. Keep the ribs wrapped in foil in an oven on low heat for up to two hours before serving, says Stacy Franklin, chief operating officer of Franklin Barbecue in Austin, Texas. Just before serving, cut each bone (or two) from the slab for easy individual servings. THE FIX:

The trampoline is dir ty. K .M., VIA EMAIL THE FIX: Remove leaves and debris with a broom or a leaf blower, says Becky Rapinchuk, creator of the blog Clean Mama and author of Simply Clean. Then use a garden hose to wet the entire trampoline. Fill a bucket with water and add about a tablespoon of dish or Castile soap. (Both cleansers are gentle enough to remove dirt without harming the grass below.) Finally, climb onto the trampoline with clean, large sponges that you’d use for washing a car and start scrubbing—a step Rapinchuk recommends outsourcing to the kids. When the mat is scrubbed down, rinse again with the hose and let air-dry.

M AY 2 0 1 8 R E A L S I M P L E

THE REALIST

1 S E PA R AT E S U P P L I E S

Designate a cubby, storage bin, or drawer for each type of project to keep necessary supplies together. If you have the space, a worktable with built-in storage keeps everything within reach. TO BUY: South Shore Crea craft table, $260; houzz.com.

2 L E T I T RO L L

3 A R R A N G E V E RT I C A L LY

Hang a pegboard above your desk to hold tools and supplies. As you add to your inventory or your interests change, rearrange the shelves and pegs to suit your needs. TO BUY: Caramba Pegboard in natural, $85, and accessories, from $17; gautierstudio.com. 4 P ROV I D E E A S Y A C C E S S

A spinning organizer corrals pens, pencils, and other small supplies in a reachingdistance spot right on your work surface. TO BUY: Recollections storage desktop carousel, $50; michaels.com. 5 L E AV E E M P T Y S PA C E

Organize This T U R N YO U R C R A F T RO O M I N T O A W O R K O F A RT U S I N G PROFE SSIONAL ORGANIZER LISA Z A SLOW ’S CLE VER TIP S.

5 2 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

Half-finished projects stashed out of sight may get forgotten and begin to pile up. Instead, reserve visible zones for in-process projects to inspire you to continue working on them. Learn how to outfit your work space with some homemade storage solutions at realsimple.com/craftydesk.

Photograph by Br yan Gardner

P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y K ATJ A G R E E F F. A N G L E P O I S E O R I G I N A L 1 2 2 7 M I N I TA B L E L A M P I N D U S K Y P I N K , $ 1 6 0 ; U S - S H O P. A N G L E P O I S E . C O M

Any room can transform into a craft room when your supplies are arranged on a go-anywhere cart. Wheel it into a corner or a closet when not in use. TO BUY: Sauder Craft Pro Series craft cart, $305; sauder.com.

Shop this room from paint to the table at homedepot.com/homedecor.

Wall (Top): PPG TIMELESS® Shadowbox Beige HDPPGWN24U (Bottom): PPG TIMELESS Grand Canyon Gold HDPPGY11

CONFIDENCE. SHIPPED FREE. With free shipping on paint samples every day from The Home Depot,® it’s never been easier to find exactly the right color. You can choose from more colors and sheens than any other store. And be absolutely, without a doubt, 100% certain you’ve found the color you love. Visit homedepot.com/paint to learn more.

THE REALIST

Things Cooks Know ST R AT E G I E S, T E C H N I Q U E S, A N D T I P S O N C O M B I N I N G F R E S H H E R B S — F RO M T H E R E A L S I M P L E T E ST K I TC H E N TO YO U R S By Ananda Eidelstein

BASIL

mixing and matching herbs you’re probably already familiar with. Clockwise from top left: MINT

C I L A N T RO

Twenty-five species exist, but spearmint is one of the most common. Besides using mint for pea recipes and tea, try adding fresh torn leaves to a pasta or grain salad. This herb loves zucchini and cucumbers, two summertime stars; pair lots of mint with parsley for a fresh Middle Eastern flavor.

Combine this versatile herb with cumin and oregano for Latin American dishes, curry powder for Indian meals, and coconut milk for aromatic Thai dinners.

CHIVES

With a mild oniony taste, this slender herb adds depth in a delicate way. Look for a bunch with lavender-colored flowers attached (you can eat those too!). Toss chives with parsley, tarragon, and chervil to make classic French fines herbes.

SAGE

Good in more than just stuffing, sage shines when pan-fried in butter or olive oil and takes any plate of pasta, pork tenderloin, or chicken to new heights. Its earthy flavor is a delicious complement to roasted peaches or apples, especially when combined with woody thyme.

RO S E M A RY

This sturdy herb is lamb’s best friend and traditional on a roast, but it stuns in a lemon pound cake. For a tasty herbal iced tea, steep rosemary in hot water with lemon verbena, then chill.

5 4 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

Learn how to keep herbs fresh longer at realsimple.com/herbs.

Photograph by Greg DuPree

F O O D ST Y L I N G BY A N N A H A M PTO N ; P R O P ST Y L I N G BY C L A I R E S P O L L E N

Want to re-create global flavors at home? The key is

You know it works in Italian dishes, but basil is also welcome in desserts alongside strawberries and stone fruit. Toss it with cilantro and mint to give a meal Southeast Asian flair. Try Thai basil for authentic flavor and opal basil for a surprise pop of purple.

THE REALIST

Fo o d fo r T h o u g ht

How do you make dinner together happen when everyone has a different schedule? A I M F O R H E A LT H Y

RHONDA M C CRE ARYRUTLED GE, FORT WORTH, TE XAS

S E RV E A B I G B ATC H

Make the healthiest casserole you know. Arrange whole fresh fruit on the table and call it a day. (My secret chili has a big bunch of pureed kale in the soup, and no one has yet to discover it!)

HE ATHER SUSTMAN GOLDEN, HOUSTON

TA C O S A LWAY S W I N

I make a batch of taco meat and all the fixings and have tortillas ready to be warmed up when people are ready to eat. KRISTIN LUP O, STRATFORD, CONNECTICUT

D O N ’ T OV E RT H I N K I T

Order. Pizza. Done. RACHEL ROS S FARIS, ERL ANGER, KENTUCKY

MAKE IT A MUST

Family dinner is a priority in our house. Even if it’s for cereal or sandwiches, we sit together. We eat when everyone is home— 6 p.m. some nights, 9 p.m. other nights. JENN M C AVOY FAHY, L A GRANGE, NE W YORK

CA M E R O N W H I T M A N / STO C K SY

F I N D A N OT H E R T I M E

Don’t focus on the meal; focus on the time to come together. It can be breakfast, after-school snacks, dinner—find what works for your family. I did 10 p.m. snacks when my girls were in high school because that was when they’d be getting home from sports or work or hanging out with friends. We had 15 to 30 minutes to just catch up on the day and the dramas that make up teenage life.

I have two kids in two different schools and on multiple sports teams, so there are days when we’re not all home to eat together. I’ve learned to make soup and/or salad with leftover chicken on those nights. That way we get veggies and protein, and we aren’t spending too much money or compromising nutrition by eating fast food.

PAT SAT TERFIELD, CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP, PENNSYLVANIA

Family Time Is Served HUNGRY FOR HAPPY MOMENTS? MAKE MEMORIES WITH PEOPLE YOU LOVE, AROUND FOOD YOU LOVE.

tip

Serve delicious, family-favorite STOUFFER’S ® lasagna over a white paper tablecloth the kids can draw on. BONUS: It makes for easier clean up!

® TM

THE REALIST

Beauty Coach

Fuller Brows IN THREE SIMPLE STEP S, YO U C A N B U I L D F U L L E R, MODERN-LO OKING B RO W S T H AT F R A M E YO U R W H O L E FA C E . B y C h e l s e a Tr a b e r B u r n s

1 STEP ONE

STEP THREE

Get a spoolie—a brush that looks like a mascara wand without the mascara. A good cheapie: E.L.F. Eyelash and Brow Wand ($1; elf cosmetics.com). Brush hairs up, then in the opposite direction of hair growth. This will add texture and expose any spots that need to be filled.

Add a healthy sheen and a light hold (to prevent wonky hairs from drooping during the day) with a gel, such as Essence Lash and Brow Gel Mascara ($3; ulta .com). Gently swipe it from root to tip in an upward motion, which will open up your eyes.

5 8 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

2 STEP T WO

Grab a pencil, like Benefit Cosmetics Precisely, My Brow Pencil ($24; benefit cosmetics.com), in a shade that matches your brow hair. Starting at the tail, fill in any gaps with short, dashlike strokes in the direction of hair growth, working your way to the front. Blend with the spoolie.

To watch a video on how to get the look, go to realsimple.com/ fullerbrows.

P h o t o g r a p h b y M e i Ta o

H A I R A N D M A K E U P B Y A M Y C H I N ; S T Y L I N G B Y A L E X I S PA R E N T E . O P P O S I T E PA G E : I M A G E S B Y J E R R Y L E U

THE REALIST

R o a d Te s t

Glow Getters S O YOU DIDN’ T CLO CK EIGHT HOUR S OF S L E E P ? FA K E I T. W E T R I E D D O Z E N S O F S K I N B O O ST E R S TO F I N D T H E O N E S T H AT G I V E

B E S T F O U N DAT I O N

Clinique Even Better Glow Light Reflecting Makeup SPF 15 In 30 shades, this sheer liquid foundation contains luminizers for instant radiance plus vitamin C to brighten skin over time. TO BUY: $28; clinique.com.

Y O U A W E L L- R E S T E D, L I T- F R O M - W I T H I N G L O W. By Lisa D eSantis

BEST MOISTURIZER

BEST OIL

Kevyn Aucoin The Neo-Elixir Weightless Beauty Oil Wear this lightweight, antioxidant-packed oil alone or under makeup for a healthy dose of hydration and a dewy sheen. For evening, add a drop to your foundation. TO BUY: $52; sephora.com.

CoverGirl Vitalist Go Glow Luminizing Lotion For the no-makeup woman: This vitaminlaced moisturizer has light-reflecting pigments, so skin looks fresh and natural—only better. TO BUY: $11; at drugstores.

realsimple ROAD TE ST BEST STICK BEST POWDER

Chantecaille Les Paillettes Dusting on these rose-gold and pink micro-pearl pigments will make you feel fancy even on days when you aren’t going anywhere. Run a brush over both shades and sweep it along your cheekbones and down the bridge of your nose to perk up dull skin. TO BUY: $79; chantecaille.com.

6 0 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

Hourglass Vanish Flash Highlighting Stick This creamy stick— available in five shades— makes highlighting foolproof, thanks to its triangular tip, which deposits light right where you want it. TO BUY: $42; hourglasscosmetics.com.

Sol de Janeiro Copacabana Bronze Glow Oil Extend your glow to your arms and legs by massaging this fastabsorbing, sweet nut-scented oil into skin. Gold mica flecks offer a subtle shimmer that won’t transfer. TO BUY: $35; sephora.com.

Check out four at-home gadgets that will enhance your glow at realsimple .com/treatments.

P R O D U CT I M AG E S C O U RT E SY O F M A N U FACT U R E R S

B E S T M U LT I TA S K E R

THE REALIST

Summer Shoe Guide THEY’RE FUN, T H E Y ’ R E O N T R E N D, AND THERE’S NOT A S T I L E T T O I N S I G H T. By Rebecca D aly

EMBELLISHED SLIDES S T Y L I N G B Y A L E X S I LVA F O R B E R N S T E I N & A N D R I U L L I

Like a cheeky hula skirt for your feet, these eye-catching flats add the perfect pop of summery style. TO BUY (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP):

BC Footwear Big Ferris Wheel slide, $65; nordstrom.com. Dolce Vita Cadiz sandal, $120; dolcevita.com. Louise et Cie Arthya Pompom slide, $119; louiseetcie.com.

Photographs by Brian Henn

M AY 2 0 1 8 R E A L S I M P L E

THE REALIST

TUBE STR AP S A N DA L S Strappy sandals are notorious for bringing on blisters, but this latest iteration comes with built-in protection, thanks to the au courant padded straps. TO BUY (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP):

Steven Katina sandal, $90; stevemadden.com. Sole Society Saxten Multi Strap slide, $85; solesociety.com. Topshop Diana Strappy mule, $45; us.topshop.com. Vagabond Shoemakers Sadie sandal, $130; urbanoutfitters.com.

7 + ( 2 5 , * , 1 $ / 6 2 8 7 + ( 5 1 2 8 7 ) , 7 7 ( 5 70

shop online at 6 2 8 7 + ( 5 1 0 $ 5 6 + & 2 0

THE REALIST

SLINGBACK F L AT S This sleek style manages to feel ladylike and laid-back at the same time. Slip them on to dress up a pair of jeans or add casual appeal to a skirt-andblouse combo.

TO BUY (CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEF T):

CC Corso Como Jackey slingback, $119; lordandtaylor.com. Kate Spade New York Barnie slingback, $298; katespade.com. Louise et Cie Astrya slingback, $110; nordstrom.com. Nine West Werein flats, $79; ninewest.com.

6 6 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

Graduation announcements, photo gifts, and limited edition art from our marketplace of independent artists. minted.com

Dusk Sky by Lauren Packard, Brooklyn, NY. Scripted by Jennifer Postorino, Dayton, OH. Statement Year by Jessica Wiliams, Nashville, TN.

MILESTONES MADE UNIQUE.

1 5% O FF graduation stationery and gifts — CO D E R S G R A D 1 8 E X P I R E S 6 / 3 0/ 1 8

THE REALIST

F L AT F O R M S A N DA L S Looking for a little lift, sans teetering heels? Fashion-forward “flatforms”—which range from sporty to snazzy—are the answer.

TO BUY (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEF T):

Soludos Tilda Leather sandal, $129; soludos.com. Marc Fisher LTD Genna Platform sandal, $160; marcfisherfootwear.com. Forever 21 Faux Leather Crochet & Metallic Slingback sandal, $28; forever21.com. Vince Camuto Kathalia Platform Espadrille sandal, $110; vincecamuto.com.

6 8 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

THE REALIST

S L I P- O N SNEAKERS Details like laser-cut designs, perforation, and open basket weave make for more stylish sneaks (and provide ventilation that will keep feet happy all season long). TO BUY (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP):

Seychelles Footwear Even Better sneaker, $120; nordstrom.com. Kate Spade New York Lennon sneaker, $158; katespade.com. Rachel Zoe Burke Clouds sneaker, $228; shoprachelzoe.com. Sofft Somers II slide, $80; sofftshoes.com.

Check out realsimple.com/summershoes for foolproof tips on finding comfortable footwear.

7 0 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

Swedish design with a green soul

l l a s ’ t I about

HAPPINEZ”

SHOP ONLINE!

www.gudrunsjoden.com

Stockholm | Est. 1976

Nature is woven into our clothing! “Öland” tunic $99 with skirt $84 and cardigan in linen/ eco-cotton $124

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MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS IN A MODERN WORLD

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Make Your Road Trip the Best Vacation Ever B E F O R E Y O U H I T T H E H I G H W AY W I T H Y O U R FA M I LY T H I S S U M M E R , R E A D T H E S E M A K E - I T - E A S Y T I P S F RO M V E T E R A N ROA D WA R R I O R S. By Liz Krieger

M AY 2 0 1 8 R E A L S I M P L E

R E L AT I N G

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Planning the drive L E AV E RO O M F O R D E T O U R S

As you map out your route, be sure to factor in some time to explore those indie bookshops, quirky museums, and natural wonders you’ll run into. Jodi Nooyen-Lester, a mom of two in New Jersey, always consults roadsideamerica.com for truly kitschy attractions (think giant potatoes, ice caves, and wax museums) before getting in the car. The Roadtrippers app (free; iOS and Android) can also help you plot the most interesting course. SCHEDULE REST STOPS

When you’re trying to calculate how to cover 800 miles in two days with kids in the car, remember to also account for much-needed breaks. “My rule of thumb is to add 15 minutes of travel time to every 2½ hours of road time for potty breaks and wiggle breaks,” says mom of four Jessica Bowers, who writes the travel blog Suitcases & Sippy Cups. TA K E A B R E A K F O R A R A C E

One great way to let your kids burn of some energy and explore a new area is to register for a 5K or a fun run in a town you’ll be passing

through. “One of our favorites, with locations across the country, is the Great Inﬂatable Race, where you run or walk for up to five kilometers and climb up and over many giant inﬂatables along the way,” says Nooyen-Lester. Find upcoming races at active.com. D R I V E D U L L S T R E T C H E S AT N I G H T

If you need to cover some long distances that don’t include any interesting sights, consider saving those for after 8 p.m., when the kids can snooze in the back seat, says Julie Meyers Pron, a mom of three in West Chester, Pennsylvania. GIVE KIDS THEIR OWN BUD GET

To avoid arguments over buying ice cream and stufed animals at stops during the trip, allot your kids a small amount of cash per day to spend however they wish. Or, suggests Catherine Pearlman, a licensed clinical social worker in Orange County, California, and author of Ignore It!, hand out homemade “tickets” to be traded in for snacks, soda, and one big souvenir, so kids can learn to save up for what they truly want.

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so many American childhoods—driving down the open highway with the family, everyone singing at the top of their lungs, and playing the license-plate game, and going miles out of the way to check out something wild and unexpected (World’s Largest Ball of Twine, anyone?). And even though the age of GPS means fewer serendipitous of-route meanderings, and though iPads and cell phones may mean your kids’ eyes are focused more often on the screen than the scenery, there’s still no better way to bond with your family than to take a road trip together. Whether you ramble down Route 66 in a hybrid or pack the kids and dog into a minivan for a cross-country trek to visit Grandma, you’ll be in good company. Sixty-four percent of American families planning to travel this summer are taking a road trip, according to a recent survey by AAA. It makes sense: In a time when family members are often scurrying in five diferent directions (or tethered to five diferent devices), simply being in a car together, headed to the same place, has definite appeal. Of course, road trips come with their challenges—like how to eat healthy when there’s nothing but gas stations and fast food for miles, how to deal with carsickness, how to pass long hours in the back seat without the dreaded “Are we there yet?” So we asked parents who’ve crisscrossed the country on four wheels to share their best tricks. Now all that’s left to do is put the car in drive and get ready for a smooth ride. I T ’ S PA R T O F

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R E L AT I N G

A N O L D - FA S H I O N E D PA P E R M A P

A REPURP OSED NUR SING PILLOW

Between your GPS and cell phone, you might think there’s no need for a paper map. But if you’re driving through a remote area and lose service, you’ll wish you had one, says Pron. And, hey, challenging the kids to refold it properly can entertain them for at least a half hour.

If you still have your old C-shaped breast-feeding pillow, throw it into the car, says Kimberly Tate, who shares family travel tips at stufedsuitcase.com and makes a yearly trek from her Seattle home to Alberta, Canada. “It’s perfect for the passenger napping in the front seat—it fits right up against the door.”

A S L E E P M A S K For kids who need the dark of night to snooze, bring a sleep mask, suggests Denver mom Kat Atwell, whose 10-year-old nods of much easier when she’s not distracted by all the scenery whizzing by the car window. And don’t forget to feather that back-seat nest with a lovey (if your kid still uses one), a soft blanket, and a small pillow. L AU N D RY B A S K E T S Pron leaves the suitcases at home and stacks all clothing in plastic laundry baskets in the back of the car. “They’re lightweight and easy to carry, and you can pack and unpack them quickly,” she says. They also make it much easier to grab that extra pair of shorts you need at a rest stop. “Once you get to your destination, simply move the clothes into drawers and you’re set to start your visit,” says Pron. F O L DA B L E S C O O T E R S Yes, those ubiquitous scooters are heavy and clunky, says Alethea Shapiro, a mom of four in Roslyn, New York, who writes about her family’s travels at

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A H A N D H E L D VA C U U M After your kids spend a few days snacking and fidgeting in the car, there’s going to be a lovely layer of crumbs, candy wrappers, and unidentifiable goo on the ﬂoor. “Stop listening to the sound of food crunching beneath their feet—it ruins the road trip music,” says Bryce Gruber, a mother of four in New York City. She brings a handheld vacuum with a car charger on her family’s frequent drives and has her kids take turns cleaning up the back.

M O R E C H A RG E R S T H A N YO U T H I N K YO U ’ L L N E E D Your phone—or, worse, your kid’s iPad—runs out of battery life when you’re halfway to Pittsburgh and you left your charger plugged in at the motel in Cincinnati. Good thing you thought ahead: It’s smart to bring at least one extra charger for every device you have. Keep them bundled together in an easy-to-reach plastic baggie. (Or two, in case the original goes missing.)

A C A R S I C K N E S S K I T There’s a good chance that, during your great road trip adventure, one of your kids will get carsick. It’s part of the whole experience. And while taking Dramamine or wearing Sea-Bands may help, nothing is guaranteed to work all the time. So pack a roll of paper towels, a few plastic bags, and air freshener. Caren Toder, a mother of two in Brooklyn, New York, is a big fan of Medline emesis bags (you can buy a pack of 24 on Amazon for less than $10). They have a plastic ring that goes around the mouth, so there’s no struggling to keep the bag open, and they secure with a twist to keep back-seat messes to a minimum.

K O N S TA N T I N T R U B AV I N / C AVA N I M A G E S

Don’t forget to pack...

sprintingwiththeshaps.com. “But they’ve been a huge lifesaver for letting my kids burn of steam during rest stops, and they’re also great for getting around quickly while sightseeing in cities.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIRBY STENGER/GROVE COLLABORATIVE

R E L AT I N G

Eating on the road S E E K O U T I N T E R E S T I N G E AT S

I N V E S T I N A T O P- O F-T H E L I N E C O O L E R To keep healthy snacks from spoiling in the back of the car, consider buying a cooler, such as Yeti’s Roadie 20 ($200; yeti.com), which gets rave reviews from road warriors for its ability to keep food cold for more than 24 hours. H AV E K I D S S H O P AT M O M ’ S CONVENIENCE STORE

“Before we leave, I divide treats into small bags and pack them in a clear container so the kids can serve themselves without whining about wanting junk food,” says Bowers. Some of her favorites: granola bars, mandarin oranges, applesauce cups, fruit snacks, and popcorn. If your kids have been in the car for hours, skip the sit-down restaurant, suggests Pron: “Stop at a sandwich shop, get your food to go, and find a local college or park.” The kids can gobble down their meal and then run around on the lawn and tire themselves out for the next leg of the trip. GR AB AND GO

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Keeping the kids entertained in the back seat FOLLOW A (LO OSE) SCHEDULE

“We divide road time into chunks, including movie time, quiet time, and Kidz Bop time,” says Ariane Machin, a mom of three in Holly Springs, North Carolina, who has driven her gang (solo) on road trips from New York City to Florida. “I try to tune in to their signals for what ‘time’ it should be, but they do a good job of gauging it themselves.” S U R P R I S E T H E M A long stretch of road can be broken up with welltimed surprises. Brooke Jennings Roe, a mother of two in Pearl River, New York, wraps a bunch of small presents (like card games, comic books, and snacks) and lets her kids open one every hour. L OA D U P O N M E D I A If any time is the right time for relaxing your screen-time rules, this is it. “We download tons of new shows and new game apps a few days before

Learn peacekeeping strategies for your next family vacation at realsimple.com/happytrip.

we leave. The kids love picking them out,” says Shapiro, whose family covered 33 states over three epic road trips last summer and fall. You can also rent DVDs along the way from Redbox machines, says Tate, and return them at the next stop, miles away. This is also an ideal time to download some great podcasts for kids, such as Wow in the World, Brains On!, and This Podcast Has Fleas. (Most parents find them charming too.) E N C O U R A G E C R E AT I V I T Y Give kids blank journals for drawing or doodling what they’ve seen. Ask older kids to file “newspaper reports” on what happened each day. “I give my kid a plush-backed lap desk to use as a work surface in the car,” says Minday Haskins Rogers, a mom of one in Massachusetts. C O R R A L I T A L L “I pack a zip-up binder for each child, filled with colored pencils, markers, paper, maps, and crosswords,” says Dina Freeman, a mother of three in Canton, Michigan. It keeps them busy, keeps things neat, and keeps you from finding random markers on the ﬂoor months after your trip.

A L E JA N D R O M O R E N O D E CA R LO S / STO C K SY

If you’re tired of eating reststop fast food, check out roadfood.com to learn about local restaurants. Having a meal that’s unique to the area will be so much more memorable (for you and the kids) than sticking to the chains you know.

ROUGHLY SIX RESIDENTS PER SQUARE MILE. Su r rou n d y ou r s e l f w it h t h e r u s h i n g of a s t re a m , t h e bi s on i n t h e d i s t a n c e , t h e s u bt l e t i e of t h e f l y. A n d a b s o lut e l y n ot h i n g e l s e . E x c e pt m ay b e a Ye l l ow s t on e c ut t h ro at . In Wy om i n g , t h e m i d d l e of n ow h e re b e c om e s t h e c e nt e r of e v e r y t h i n g .

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Good Read

Under Her Wing F O R M E G W O L I T Z E R , B E I N G M E N T O R E D F E LT C O M P L E T E LY N AT U R A L .

T H E F I R S T O N E WA S A T E AC H E R , and later on there was another teacher, and then a camp counselor, and an employer, and finally a writer. Each one was accomplished and confident and admirable; that was clear to everyone who knew them. But to me, there was something else: Each one was also kind enough to give me her attention and ofer her advice and time and take me under her so-called wing. The words “mentor” and “protégé” can sound kind of stif and formal, when often the relationship between two such people is warm and spontaneous. In fact, sometimes the two people involved don’t even think of themselves as

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R E L AT I N G

The author with one of her early mentors— her mother.

I wasn’t ready to assume the position of greater understanding. I feared that once I did, I would give up the possibility of ever being someone’s protégé again. occupying these roles at all. It’s only much later, when they look back, that a hindsight clarity might set in, and both people can see exactly what once took place between them, and how it mattered. When I was young, I was taken under the wing of a few diferent older, wiser women, and I was comfortable there. (After all, in addition to their attentions, I’d grown up with a very encouraging mother.) But later on, when I was called upon to be a winged one myself, I’m not proud of the fact that I didn’t feel up to the task. I was in my mid-20s then, a few years out of college. One of my jobs was as an instructor in a nighttime creative-writing workshop, where my students ranged in age from early 20s to late 70s. In that class was a young woman, only a couple of years my junior, a terrific writer and someone who always brought a lot to class discussions. One night she seemed upset and distracted, and after class she lingered awhile. When I gently inquired about what was going on, she blurted out that her sister was gravely ill. I felt great sympathy for her, of course, and expressed it. Then, the following week, she lingered after class again. I sensed that she wanted something more from me, a particular sort of solace and attention that she imagined would spring fairly naturally from my older-and-wiserperson self. I think she hoped that I would give her what those older, wiser women had given me. And why wouldn’t I? I liked her and admired her, and I knew what a hard time she was having. I thought of those older women

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with their cardigans, their dignified bearing, their calm, middle-aged-person airs. I possessed none of that, as far as I could tell, nor did I want to possess it. At the time, I still wore Keds and a bomber jacket. I traveled around New York City in a pack of friends. Not only that, but I didn’t know much about grief. I felt that I had no wisdom to dispense. I had no wing to ofer. I ached for her, but I realized that I wasn’t ready to assume the position of greater knowledge and understanding. And I suppose I feared that once I did assume that position, it would stick, and I would have to give up the possibility of ever being someone’s protégé again. I can’t remember what I said to my student that night. In fact, the memory comes to a halt right there, at the moment when she looked to me for deeper consolation and guidance. I banished that conversation from my mind, but I continued to think about the encounter once in a while, feeling uneasy about it, knowing that I had disappointed her. A N D T H E N , A S I S A LWAY S T H E C A S E , time passed. It passed and it passed, and very naturally I began to ease out of my protégé status on my own. A few diferent young people seemed to see me as a mentor, and I liked it. None of them were in a moment of crisis, as my student had been, but all of them wanted something from me, and I was willing to give it. We didn’t think of it this way, of course. The words, the titles, would have made it sound too official, too transactional, rather than emotional and voluntary. But it was real. I became increasingly comfortable in my new role; I didn’t even miss that other role at all. Then, a few summers ago, I found myself teaching another workshop, this time at a summer writing conference. Once again, the students ranged widely in age. On the very first day, in the lobby, a middle-aged woman tentatively approached me. She was carrying her belongings in a big dufel bag, and she also had a rolled-up poster with her. From a great distance of three decades I thought I recognized her, and I felt a stir of feelings, but I wasn’t sure I had the right person. I asked her whether she had been my student a few decades ago. Yes, she said, she had been. We talked a little bit about the class, and how, while she hadn’t become a professional writer, she still loved to write, which was why she was here at this summer program. Then, rather indelicately, I asked her whether her sister

COURTESY OF NINA SUBIN

had become very ill back then. She nodded. So I told her that I felt I’d disappointed her. She put down her dufel bag and rolled-up poster and listened as I spun my confession of inadequate mentoring. “I think you needed something from me that I wasn’t ready to give,” I said. “And I’m sorry about that.” But then she told me she remembered it diferently. “You took me out for soup after class at some weird little place where you said you and your friends always went,” she said. “And then you gave me a book you loved. You wrote something really nice in it. It meant a lot to me.” I didn’t remember any of that, but apparently it was true. Somehow, without my knowing it, I had been a kind of mentor to her anyway. I didn’t have to demonstrate gravitas or appear to be from another generation. I was myself—quirky, young, not too much more experienced than she was—and apparently I still had something to give, and she gladly took it, and it mattered. In fact, when she found out I would be teaching at this conference this summer, she decided to bring me a gift.

The rolled-up poster was her artwork, which she had signed to me, warmly and kindly. We were both so much older now: two women deep in middle age. Her sister had died, and my student had gone on to live her life, one that would be forever punctured by her early loss, and framed by it too. She worked in a helping profession, and attended to people in crisis, and was writing her own book about it. I T S E E M S T O M E N OW, as even more time has passed since our brief reunion, that my early ideas about what a mentor is and what a protégé is have become outdated. The world is often in crisis. We need older people for their experience, and younger ones for their openness, and sometimes vice versa. These days I have no fears of losing that young-upstartprotégé thing. I lost it long ago. And I also have no fears of how I will be seen if I ofer advice to someone younger. I’ve come to accept the existence of my very own proverbial wing. It’s been there much longer than I knew.

ABOUT T H E AU T H O R Meg Wolitzer’s most recent novel, The Female Persuasion, was published in April. She is the author of The Interestings and The Uncoupling, among other novels. She lives in New York City.

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R E L AT I N G

Modern Manners R E A L S I M P L E ’ S E T I Q U E T T E E X P E R T, C AT H E R I N E N E W M A N , O F F E R S HER BEST ADVICE ON YO U R S O C I A L Q UA N DA R I E S.

P. M . A S K S . . .

My husband and I have our favorite places to sit in our family room. Frequently, my husband’s son and his wife come to visit, as they have for years. They always choose to sit where “my place” is on the couch, fully knowing that it’s where I like to sit. I can even have a hot cup of coffee next to me and get up for a minute, and they will move over to sit there. When I come back, they just stare at me. Neither of them would dare sit in my husband’s chair. What should I do? My husband is not coming to my rescue.

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ABOUT C AT H E R I N E The author of One Mixed-Up Night, Catastrophic Happiness, and Waiting for Birdy, Catherine Newman has shared her wisdom on matters ranging from family and friends to happiness and pickling in numerous publications. She gets advice from her husband and two opinionated children in Amherst, Massachusetts.

It’s fine to put up a sign. I would try to go for witty rather than scolding. Google signs for a shoeless home and you’ll see some appealing ones that say things like “Leave your worries and your shoes at the door!” or “Lose the shoes and rock your socks!” Our house is a shoeless one too, but we make lots of exceptions: for older people for whom bending over is a hardship (“Please,” we say, “feel free to leave your shoes on—we really don’t care”), as well as for people with foot issues or, really, any issues at all. For everyone else, I imagine clarity is a blessing; they’d rather accommodate our wishes than traipse around unknowingly with their sneakers on. A tasteful sign would be even clearer than the cue we ofer at our house: a gigantic, unruly pile of footwear directly inside our front door.

I l l u s t r a t i o n s b y Yo c o N a g a m i y a

C AT H E R I N E N E W M A N I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y U L I K N Ö R Z E R

Your letter reminds me of that classic definition of resentment: swallowing poison and waiting for the other person to die. Your stepson and his wife may or may not be intentionally trying to annoy you, but either way, the issue of your usurped spot on the couch is an arrow pointing to a bigger problem. I’m not sure what that problem is, and maybe you’re not either. Perhaps you and your husband should find a calm, quiet time to discuss the issue—do you feel like your husband doesn’t stand by you? Do you feel like his son doesn’t treat you with respect?— and then brainstorm solutions. Good hosting, of course, means making your guests comfortable and allowing them to sit where they like. But your question seems only superficially about etiquette and more about a deeper conﬂict.

M.S. A SKS...

We’re moving soon, and I don’t want visitors to wear shoes inside our new house (mostly because I’m a germophobe). How do you suggest I enforce this rule? Is putting a sign at the front door tacky?

D. B . A S K S . . .

We live in a popular tourist destination and often have friends flying in to visit, which means a lot of driving people around for sightseeing. If they’re close friends, I don’t mind, but recently a long-lost friend got back in touch and told me that she and a friend were coming for a vacation. I’m happy to recommend things to do, and I told her I could meet up with them for lunch or dinner one day. But it seems she’s hoping I will offer to chauffeur them around. How can I make it clear that I’m not able to be their tour guide? It sounds like you’re sufering from a bit of last-straw-itis and might be kind of over shepherding visitors around (in other words, maybe try to do less of it). Since your friend hasn’t explicitly requested your driving services, I would leave it alone. You probably have enough to feel stressed about without adding the imagined desires of an out-of-touch friend. But if you really want to stamp out any lingering assumptions, you can say, “I wish I weren’t too busy to chauffeur you around! But there’s a great public transportation system here.” Or Uber. Or car rental. Whatever it is, you can direct them to it and feel relieved of obligation— and lucky to live in such a desirable spot.

K.B. A SKS...

My 14-year-old daughter started her period this year. We had several discussions about it over the past few years so she would feel prepared, and one of the things I explained was that she should take feminine products with her when she spends the night at a friend’s house during her period. I also stocked her bathroom. I recently discovered that her friends use her products when they stay over, which happens almost every weekend. I continue to buy multiple boxes of pads a month, but I’m questioning whether it should be my responsibility to provide these products for my daughter’s friends. I’m starting to feel like our hospitality is being taken advantage of.

Teenagers need all the compassion we can shovel their way, given that they’re Frankensteining around with their new bodies and their hulking self-consciousness. If we can ease their burden—say, by ofering sanitary supplies instead of forcing them to smuggle their backpacks into the bathroom— well, let’s. Think of it as a kind of service work: You’re making these kids’ lives a little easier, especially since they may not all enjoy the advantage of a parent who strategizes with them about periods and products. Or think of it as a natural extension of hosting—you wouldn’t expect guests to bring their own toilet paper or snacks. Buy the supplies in bulk online or at a warehouse store and know that it’s money well spent. (And consider the potentially messy alternative! As my own teenagers pointed out, it’s always cheaper to buy more pads than a new couch.)

HAVE AN E TIQUE T TE QUE STION? Submit your social conundrums to modernmanners@realsimple.com. Selected letters will be featured on these pages every month.

M AY 2 0 1 8 R E A L S I M P L E

R E L AT I N G

The Vets Will See You Now A N SW E R S TO YO U R H A I R I E ST P E T Q U E ST I O N S

RU F F L E D F E AT H E R S

KENNEL PREP

FAT K I T T Y

We just got a pet cockatoo and have been told that some owners clip their wings. Is this recommended?

I’m thinking of boarding my dog while we’re on vacation but am concerned about kennel cough. How can I ensure my pup is protected?

My indoor cat is pretty pudgy. What can I do to help slim her down?

The choice to clip your bird’s wings is a personal one. The painless procedure involves a vet clipping off typically six or seven feathers per wing. Wing clipping limits flying by preventing birds from getting upward lift, explains veterinarian Evan Mavromatis, so when your bird leaps, “he has a gradual descent and a controlled landing.” It can protect pets from flying into hazards such as a hot stove or a ceiling fan and from escaping through an open window. Detractors, however, label the procedure inhumane because it takes away birds’ most defining characteristic and a primary form of exercise. For those considering the cut, know that it’s temporary. Due to molting, new feathers will grow back in roughly six months, says Mavromatis: “It’s really akin to a haircut.”

You have a couple of options for safeguarding your pup. The most common forms of kennel cough—an umbrella term for any canine upper respiratory infection caused by a virus or bacteria—are Bordetella and parainfluenza, and there’s a vaccine for each that can be administered annually. In some parts of the country, a separate vaccine for canine influenza is recommended; check with your vet. Still, points out veterinarian Gayle O’Konski, “the parainfluenza vaccine only covers certain strains.” The good news: While the cough is contagious, it’s not as serious as it sounds, notes O’Konski. You should take your pup to the vet to determine whether he needs antibiotics, but, she says, “it’s rare that adult dogs can’t clear the cough on their own.”

Vetted by realsimple

KO N G S WAY ’ N P L AY

This toy will ignite your kitty’s hunting instinct. Infused with catnip and adorned with a bell, the mouse makes unpredictable movements that will keep her hooked. TO BUY: From $16; kongcompany.com for info.

To help your cat lose weight, put an end to the all-she-caneat buffet. Because cats tend to graze, you should serve up a set number of calories per day. Work with your vet to figure out the ideal number, and find quality, lean food that lets you reduce calories without sacrificing volume. (O’Konski favors Iams ProActive Health Indoor Weight & Hairball Care, $14 for 7 lb.; petco.com.) And while walking your cat is probably not going to happen, says veterinarian Ann Hohenhaus, you can get her to exercise 10 to 30 minutes a day through play, using laser pointers, fishing-pole toys, or food puzzles. (Try the Kong toy at left or the Trixie Activity Fun Board, $24; chewy.com.) Since cats are natural hunters, explains veterinarian Evan Antin, the key is to “find toys that engage those instincts.”

O U R E X P E RT S EVAN ANTIN, DVM, PURINA VETERINARIAN REPRESENTATIVE, CONEJO VALLEY VETERINARY HOSPITAL , THOUSAND OAKS, CALIFORNIA ANN HOHENHAUS, DVM, ANIMAL MEDICAL CENTER, NEW YORK CITY EVAN MAVROMATIS, DVM, THE LINKS ROAD ANIMAL & BIRD CLINIC, TORONTO GAYLE O’KONSKI, DVM, MORRIS ANIMAL HOSPITAL , GRANGER, INDIANA

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W O R K , M O N E Y, A N D H E A L T H ADVICE FOR BUSY PEOPLE

TH E M A NY J OYS O F J O U R N A LI N G Whether you want to improve your mood, feel more organized, or sleep better, we’ll help you write it out and make it happen.

P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y J E N N Y W I C H M A N AT A R T D E PA R T M E N T

By Marjorie Ingall

Photograph by Eric Helgas

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fulness trend. Witness the blossoming of Pinterest boards devoted to bullet journaling (more on that later), the fetishization of Moleskine notebooks, and the sway of journaling advocates like Gretchen Rubin. It also turns out that there’s an ever-growing body of research on journaling’s many benefits. Studies suggest that the habit can boost your immune system, lower your heart rate, and lessen some symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Keeping a journal can also improve your body image, even if you don’t write about your weight (really). So whether you’re looking for peace, perspective, or a creative outlet, there’s a journaling method that might help.

If you want to work through emotions Evidence shows that labeling your emotions calms your experience of them. Writing about your sorrow or outrage—owning it, in words, in the journal of your choice—may help you better cope, according to Beth Jacobs, PhD, a clinical psychologist in Chicago and the author of Writing for Emotional Balance and the forthcoming A Buddhist Journal. “There’s an incredible release when emotions become tangible and visible, out of your head and into the world in a contained, self-controlled way,” she says. But beware the tendency to simply spew. Instead, Jacobs recommends allowing yourself around 30 minutes (or three pages, whichever limit you prefer) to vent about whatever is on your mind. Then spend a little time

D YA D P H O T O G R A P H Y ; L E T T E R I N G B Y S A M A N T H A Z A B E L L , @ S A M Z AW R I T E S

S E V E R A L Y E A R S AG O, I got a call from a local historical society. They’d found my middle school diary! At Goodwill! Might I consider donating it to the historical society? Since much of my middle school life consisted of dull bus rides, crushes on unattainable boys, and a fear of math equations involving decimals, I couldn’t believe anyone would be interested in my youthful musings. But, I learned, diaries are an important resource. They’re not just for important figures like Virginia Woolf and Anne Frank. They show historians how people lived and tell social scientists what concerns regular folks wrestled with. So I gave the society permission to hang on to the diary, as long as it remained sealed until my death. (I had some very snarky things to say about my fellow seventh graders I’d prefer to keep hush-hush.) Of course, when I wrote in that diary, I wasn’t thinking about history. I was thinking about channeling my rage, sorrow, and yearnings in a safe way. I recall the relief I felt after unleashing my most unbecoming, potent feelings and knowing they were private. No one could judge me. And I felt better. So why did I stop? Well, some of us let our diary writing go when the manic pace of life takes over; we begin associating writing with work. Or we develop enough selfconsciousness that the thought of putting thoughts to paper (or pixels) makes us uncomfortable. But in recent years, journaling has felt less like a childish hobby and more like a zeitgeisty mind-

(about 10 minutes) writing a positive affirmation or questions to ponder post-journaling. You might also look at yourself from an outside perspective. Reread whatever you’ve last vented about in your journal, pretending that someone else wrote it, and spend some time reframing it. What would you ask the person who’d written those words? What would you suggest that person do to move forward? Another helpful exercise for working through sadness and pain is to write about your best possible self—the person you’d be if everything went right. What job would you have? Where would you live? What steps will you take to get to this version of you? One study found that writing about the ideal self was at least as beneficial as writing about trauma. “You’re turning yourself into the author of your own story in a literal way,” says Jacobs.

If you want to get organized A bullet journal is a monthslong log with an index, task lists, events, notes, and reﬂections. You can buy one premade or create your own using a dotted-grid notebook from a company like Leuchtturm1917 or Moleskine. A bullet journal (or “bujo,” as the cognoscenti say) is almost endlessly ﬂexible: It can be used for moment-to-moment scheduling, setting and tracking long-term plans and goals, and creative writing and drawing.

For more about bullet journals, visit realsimple.com/ bulletjournal.

In re c e nt ye a rs , jo u r n a l i n g h a s fe l t le ss l i ke a c h i l d i s h h o b by a n d m o re l i ke a ze i tge i st y m i n d fu l n e ss t re n d — w i th p rove n b e n ef i t s .

For some people (me), that level of freedom can be terrifying. For others, it’s helpful. “My work is unstructured, so the bullet journal provides a focus for my attention,” says Jolenta Greenberg, a comedian in New York City and cohost of the podcast By the Book, who uses her bullet journal to record events, affirmations, and personal thoughts. “I love my bullet journal because of my anxiety.” A bullet journal is also good for detail-oriented people who crave a sense of control, as it keeps daily and monthly tasks and creative pursuits in one place. Greenberg finds this soothing. “I love playing with calligraphy and hand-lettering,” she says. “I have rulers and diferent ink colors. It taps into the person in me who loves buying school supplies.”

If you want to tune in to your creativity A journal doesn’t have to be textbased. It can be a multimedia sketchbook or scrapbook with photos and art. Jim Henson and Kurt Cobain both kept journals filled with drawings as well as words. As Kendra Levin, a life coach for writers and the author of The Hero Is You, puts it, “A journal can be the external hard drive for your whole life’s memories.” You can incorporate stickers and ticket stubs from meaningful concerts and plays. You can add

family photos and old postcards. Or try journaling with key words: Levin suggests pondering your experiences of the day and writing down the words, phrases, and images that pop into your head without making any efort to connect them. (Why be linear at all? Write them all over the page, in bubble letters and in script, big and small!) You might gain surprising insight into your psyche.

If you want to be kinder Feeling excessively snarky? Overwhelmed and upset about the state of the world? Grumpy about a coworker? Research has found that keeping a gratitude journal— a place to write down what you’re thankful for—can help you feel better about your life and more charitable toward other people. In one study, people were asked to list five things for which they

USE AN APP While there’s evidence that writing by hand boosts creativity and memory, phone apps are awfully convenient. Highly regarded journaling apps include Journey (2appstudio.com/journey), stored in Google Drive; Penzu (penzu .com), which offers guides for gratitude, prayer, pregnancy, and other journals; and Day One (dayoneapp .com), which earns raves for its design and use of metadata—such as what music you were listening to and what the weather was like when you wrote.

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help my best friend find an afordable but cute leather backpack on eBay, and for the fact that writing this story made me remember the time my 3-year-old confused the words “diary” and “diarrhea.”

If you want to sleep better Nighttime journaling can be a great sleep aid. “When you put your thoughts in a book you can literally close, you can take everything running around in your head from the whole day and just plop it in,” says Levin. Alternatively, you may prefer “morning pages,” a practice first discussed by Julia Cameron in her seminal book The Artist’s Way. First thing in the morning, when

W H AT T O B U Y Eight new diaries to help you get in the habit of regular writing, whether it’s in a dotted-grid journal or a blank notebook.

Molly Hatch journal, $17; abramsbooks .com for info.

One List a Day: A Three-Year Journal by Lisa Nola, $17; chroniclebooks.com.

Unwind Every Day: A Journal, $15; chroniclebooks.com.

Paris in Bloom: Roses and Thorns Gratitude Journal by Georgianna Lane, $17; abrams books.com for info.

Graphic Arts Books dotted-grid journal, $25; barnesand noble.com.

Sara Miller journal, $28; amazon.com.

Watercolor Workshop journal, $17; abramsbooks.com for info.

Leuchtturm1917 medium A5 hardcover dotted journal in emerald, $20; leuchtturm1917.us.

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you’re still half-asleep, or “before our ego is awake,” as she says in the book, write three pages in a journal—then stop. Just ramble; don’t try to craft anything. When you look back, you may be astonished by what you were working through. Knowing that you’ll unleash everything in the morning may help you rest better at night.

If you’re not sure you’re into journaling If beginning a journal is daunting because you find yourself fretting about what to write about and whether you’re doing it “right,” consider a structured format, such as a one-sentence journal that’s such a low commitment you can’t possibly mess it up. A popular one, Q&A a Day ($17; amazon.com), poses 365 questions on everything from what you hope for to what you wore—one for each day of the year. Over five years, you answer the same question every, say, January 1. Chava Pinchuck, a librarian in Beit Shemesh, Israel, loves her Q&A a Day journal for the long view it provides of her life. “I like it because some things stay the same over the years and some things change, and it’s nice to see the progression,” she says. “Although I seem to wear the same earrings a lot!” No matter what form you choose, journaling can be an escape, a treat, a snapshot of who you are in time, and a type of therapy. “When you can write yourself as the hero of your own story, you know you can write your way through the most difficult times,” says Levin.

M O L LY H AT C H J O U R N A L , O N E L I S T A D AY J O U R N A L : C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U F A C T U R E R S ; D YA D P H O T O G R A P H Y ( 6 )

were grateful once a week for 10 weeks. Afterward, they felt more optimistic and satisfied with their lives than participants in control groups. They also felt better physically, with fewer headaches, coughs, bouts of nausea—and even pimples. Other studies have found that expressions of gratitude are associated with improved sleep and feelings of connection with others. To practice gratitude journaling, jot down three to five things you’re thankful for in a notebook; do this every few days or every week. You can be as lofty or as mundane as you wish. Today, for instance, I’d write that I’m grateful for the gorgeous purple pansy I saw in a seed catalog, for my shy cat choosing to sit on my lap, for Trader Joe’s zucchini fries, for being able to

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Are You Well Paid? Y O U R PAY C H E C K D O E S N ’ T H O L D THE ANSWER—BUT F R A N K C O N V E R S AT I O N S A N D O N L I N E T O O L S M I G H T. By Kate Ro ckwo o d

GET T Y IMAGES

Be a Digital Detective

A F E W Y E A R S AG O, Charreah Jackson was working at a communications company when a colleague she was close with asked for advice negotiating a raise. The colleague shared her current salary—which was $20,000 higher than Jackson’s. “I tried to pretend like that number didn’t completely rock my world,” says Jackson, author of the forthcoming book Boss Bride: The Powerful Woman’s Playbook for Love and Success. Even if you haven’t had a similar wake-up call, chances are good you could be underpaid and not know it. “We’ve been socialized, as women, not to talk about money,” says Sallie Krawcheck, cofounder and CEO of Ellevest, a digital investing platform for women. “But that means we don’t know how much we should be making, and we don’t negotiate pay raises as often as we should.” Here’s how to sleuth out whether your salary is fair—and what you can do about it.

For more salary negotiation tips, go to realsimple.com/salary.

Search your title and company name on the job site Glassdoor, which has a salary database. Check both the range and the average of what others have said they’re getting paid. If there’s not much data about your employer or you want to see how your company stacks up against the local market, search only your job title and location. PayScale, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor also ofer personalized salary analysis tools, which factor in things like years of experience and level of education, to tell you how your pay compares with that of similarly qualified peers.

Break the Taboo Speak to six people in your company or field—including three men, says Lauren McGoodwin, CEO at Career Contessa, a career site for women. Say, “I’m doing research about my salary range and think you could help me. Would you be willing to share your ballpark salary?” Jackson found that asking for a range made the question feel less intrusive. Talk to colleagues who have moved on from the role too, she suggests; they’re “much more likely to share exact numbers.”

Speak Up Does your research show you’re underpaid? Krawcheck recommends setting up a meeting with your boss, reminding her of your recent wins, and then saying, “I’ve done some research, and it appears I’m underpaid by x percent.” Then stop talking. “We always want to fill the awkward moment, but just wait,” she says. This will make it clear that the next step is your boss’s to take. If she says she’ll get back to you, suggest a meeting next week. If she says only a small bump is possible, ask whether the company can cover that coding course you’ve wanted to take or send you to a conference you’ve had your eye on. Jackson brought up the pay discrepancy with her boss after being praised over lunch for a work collaboration. “Nothing was promised then and there, but within a few months I had a raise, and within a year my salary was on par with my coworker’s,” she says. Now she makes a point of talking salary with newer hires. “This code-ofsilence culture is on its way out.”

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M a k i n g I t Wo r k

How do you get the most out of your commute? By Jane Por ter

CHRIS CHAPMAN, 52, DIRECTOR AT DEUTSCHE BANK

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I manage four nail salons in New York City and take the subway a lot. On the train, you never know what will happen. Things like delays can come up and leave you stuck underground. I used to spend that time refreshing my internet for 15 or 20 minutes in hopes of sending an email. But now I find that I’m a lot calmer if I’m prepared with something to read instead. I keep a stack of magazines by the door at home and grab one on my way out. And I always carry almonds or clementines in my bag for a quick snack. When I’m prepared, I am always better off.

CHI KRNETA , 33, FREEL ANCE PHOTO GRAPHER AND DESIGNER

NADINE ABRAMCYK, 39, COFOUNDER OF TENOVERTEN NAIL SALON

JACQUI BURGE, 49, WELLNES S CONSULTANT AND FOUNDER OF DESK YO GI

I don’t work out of an office, so sometimes the distinction between work and home gets blurred. I started to go out and get coffee before beginning to work and realized that getting in my truck and leaving the house simulated commuting for me. Now every morning, I go for a 15- to 20minute drive and think about what I have going on that day. The stimulus of driving not only helps me transition, by giving me that barrier between the two parts of my day, but also helps keep me from being lethargic.

STEVEN VAZQUE Z, 32, WELLNES S CONSULTANT FOR PEERFIT, A CORP ORATE WELLNES S CONSULTANCY

Illustration by Andrea Mongia

P H OTO G R A P H S C O U RT E SY O F S U B J ECTS

I’ve been biking 27 miles to work each day for about 14 years. I live in Ridgewood, New Jersey, and work in Manhattan, which is 27 miles each way. I’m getting a three-hour workout instead of sitting on a bus or a train. I was riding by myself for a few years; then one day eight or nine years ago, I saw somebody on a bike with a pack. He told me he meets with a group of people every morning and they commute together. We’ve since become a pretty close group, and I feel a sense of camaraderie and motivation from them.

For eight years, I worked as an architect and commuted to downtown Seattle by bus, on average 30 minutes each way. That’s an hour every day when I can’t do anything else, so I might as well do something useful with it. I get motion sickness when I try to read on the bus, so most of the time, I would crochet; the tools are portable and don’t take up much space. I’ve been crocheting since I was a little kid and learned from my grandmother. I actually crocheted my wedding dress while riding the bus every day, which took me about five months.

A commute is a chance to do something that’s going to give you energy and creative inspiration. I don’t listen to the news first thing anymore. I know that will not put me in the best head space. Instead, I like to download a few podcasts or Audible books. For example, I’m listening to Tim Ferriss’s podcast Tribe of Mentors. My regular commute is 10 minutes in the car, but I often go to L.A. to see clients, and that’s a two-hour drive. On those days, I make a list of friends to call and chat with them on speaker. We tend to be happier when we are connected to others in our community.

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Why Do So Many People Have High Blood Pressure? A M E R I C A N S’ N U M B E R S A R E R I S I N G. CO N T RO L YO U R S S O YO U D O N’ T ST R E S S A B O U T I T ( T H AT W O U L D B E C O U N T E R P RO D U C T I V E ) . By Christine Richmond

BAC K I N N OV E M B E R , a funny thing may have happened to you: One day you were fine, and then— bam!—whether you knew it or not, you had high blood pressure. No, it wasn’t because you realized there were only six weeks left until Christmas; it was because the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association changed the medical definition of “high blood pressure.” The condition now starts at 130/80 mm Hg rather than 140/90, and close to half of all U.S. adults have it (before the new definition, a third did). Why the change? We’ve learned that people with a blood pressure of 130/80 “are already at about double the risk of heart attack or stroke,” says Paul K. Whelton, MD, the lead author of new guidelines for health care providers that were written to accompany the updated blood pressure numbers.

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Basically, this is a wake-up call for people who may not have given much thought to their blood pressure but are edging toward health problems. As the report points out, high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is second only to cigarette smoking as the leading preventable cause of death in the U.S. You might think of hypertension as something older men deal with, but it affects women and men just about equally. Black women are at especially high risk, and they tend to get it at an earlier age. Family history is another big factor: If you have even one close relative with high blood pressure, you’re twice as likely to have it too. So now might be a good time to schedule a checkup to find out your numbers and discuss with your doctor what they mean.

If you learn you’re one of the more than 100 million Americans with high blood pressure, you won’t necessarily end up on meds. You will most likely get prescribed one or more drugs if you’re considered to be at high risk for cardiovascular disease—if, for example, you have diabetes or kidney disease or have already had a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor will also discuss how to manage other risk factors and any lifestyle changes you should incorporate. Which brings us to the good news: Lifestyle factors—like what you eat, how often you work out, and how you manage stress— make a big diference, whether you have hypertension or are just trying to reduce your risk. Ahead, eight things to try today, along with helpful tips for actually working them into your life.

Illustrations by Amrita Marino

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Get checked for sleep apnea. About 25 million Americans have this condition, which makes you brieﬂy stop breathing multiple times during the night, and it’s a major contributor to high blood pressure and heart disease, says Brown. Severe snoring, extreme fatigue during the day, irritability, and difficulty concentrating or remembering are all symptoms of sleep apnea. But the only way to know for sure if you have it is to go in for a sleep study, in which your breathing is monitored overnight.

Make exercise a priority. The guidelines call for 90 to 150 minutes of exercise per week. Any moderate-intensity activity will do—like swimming, strength training, or dancing, says Whelton. The simplest (and most afordable) move may be walking, as long as you’re going fast enough that you can’t easily maintain a conversation, says Angela L. Brown, MD, associate professor of medicine and director of the Hypertension Clinic at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. If you never exercise and don’t know how to begin, Tammara Davis of California, Maryland, has some tips. Davis was a selfdescribed couch potato for decades, and her attempts at exercise were of-putting. “It felt like my lungs were on fire. I hated it,” she says. But then her blood

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pressure crept up, and she decided to make a change. That was about 10 years ago; the 44-year-old now runs half marathons. To get there, she started slowly, doing a couchto-5K program using the C25K app. Next, she took a hard look at the things that were keeping her from exercising. “My hair, for example. I’m a black woman. I’d get my hair done and wouldn’t want to work out for a week after,” she says. “I started wearing my hair natural, and that was key.” She also likes having a goal to work toward, so signing up for races has been motivating. Not only are races fun (she’s looking forward to the Reggae Half Marathon in December, held in Jamaica), they also cost money, so she’s more likely to follow through. Finally, Davis found a community of local women to work out with through a running club called Black Girls Run. “They’re my sisterhood. Without them, I’d feel pretty isolated as a runner,” she says. “We travel. We celebrate birthdays. We’re all cheerleaders for each other, and we’ve seen each other through so much.”

Clean out your medicine cabinet. A number of drugstore standbys, such as decongestants, ibuprofen, and aspirin, can raise blood pressure. So can prescription meds, like certain antidepressants and birth control pills, as well as steroids such as prednisone. Tell your doctor everything you’re taking, including supplements. If needed, she can suggest blood pressure– friendly swaps, like acetaminophen for pain and a progestin-only form of contraception.

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Eat more veggies and less salt. The healthiest way to eat if you’re worried about blood pressure, according to the new guidelines, is to pile your plate with produce, whole grains, dairy, and lean meats. And though some experts have challenged the role of salt in causing hypertension, reducing sodium intake is still standard advice—as is getting more potassium. If you want a more formal eating plan, check out the DASH (dietary approaches to stop hypertension) diet, which is based on the above principles and which studies suggest can start lowering blood pressure in as little as two weeks. Maggie Ratanapratum, 45, from Huntington Beach, California, has successfully followed the DASH diet for almost a year and a half, lowering her blood pressure from 140/90 to 110/60 and losing

more than 60 pounds. She tried other eating plans in the past, such as Atkins, South Beach Diet, and Weight Watchers, but “they didn’t work, because I was following a prescriptive diet of foods I didn’t really like: frozen meals, ricotta with cocoa powder and artificial sweetener, big pieces of meat,” she says. Plus, she adds, “I was having to cook two meals— one for the family and one for myself.” She found that the basic rules of the DASH diet gave her plenty of flexibility, and she focused on learning to meal plan and cook healthy food for her whole family. Being organized is essential, she says, because “it’s a lot of work to plan meals, shop, cook things so they don’t spoil, and come up with food that doesn’t get boring.” But because she put in the work, Ratanapratum says she now has “really strong habits” that have kept her on track through life’s inevitable ups and downs.

Watch what you drink too. You’ve probably heard that a glass of red wine per day is good for your heart. There’s research to back that up, but it’s also true that too much booze can raise your blood pressure. For that reason, Whelton recommends that if you don’t drink, don’t start, and if you do, have no more than one standard drink per day if you’re a woman and two if you’re a man. “A standard drink is less than most people would think,” he adds—it’s 12 ounces of beer, five ounces of wine, or 1½ ounces of spirits (such as gin, vodka, or whiskey). Luckily, Whelton’s report notes that cafeine intake doesn’t cause high blood pressure (though it can cause a temporary spike; see “Test Prep,” right).

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TEST PREP Drinking coffee beforehand, having to pee, and feeling stressed about being at the doctor’s office can all cause a falsely high blood pressure reading. Readings can also be higher midafternoon. Ask your doctor to check again at a different appointment before she draws any conclusions.

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Find ways to de-stress.

Check your weight. Your weight isn’t the only indicator of your well-being, and lots of different body types can be healthy. That said, if you have high blood pressure and you’re also considered overweight, your doctor will probably tell you to lose some pounds. “You get the biggest bang for your buck with weight loss. In some people it can really make the diference between needing to take a drug and not,” says Brown. How can you tell if you’d benefit

from losing weight? Although it’s a controversial and imperfect tool, most doctors still use the BMI as a guideline to determine whether patients are at a healthy weight. But as Brown notes, “Telling someone that her BMI is 35 while a normal BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9 doesn’t always resonate, because what does that mean?” Instead, she gives patients the goal of losing 7 to 10 percent of their body weight. The numbers make sense to people, and the target feels doable. “For someone at 200 pounds, that’s only 14 pounds,” she says.

Unsurprisingly, stress can afect your blood pressure—work is a common culprit. “I have a couple of patients whose blood pressure is lower on the weekends, when they’re out of the office,” says Brown. Chronic stress can also trigger behaviors that are known to cause high blood pressure, such as drinking too much and overeating. Taking care of yourself and reducing stress is absolutely beneficial, says Brown. One super-easy tactic is to squeeze a stress ball. This has been shown to help lower blood pressure by increasing blood vessel function. Beyond that, there are plenty of proven stress-reducing activities out there, including massage, yoga, meditation, deep breathing, knitting, gardening, hanging out with pets, and listening to music.

Make time for friends and family. Need an excuse to put of doing your laundry and go out to dinner with friends instead? This is a good one. Having strong social ties has been linked to a longer life, better brain health, and, yes, lower blood pressure. All the more reason to prioritize time with the people you love. And if you’re the hugging type (and your loved ones are too), you might as well go in for a squeeze: One small but sweet study of 59 women found that frequent hugs were associated with lower blood pressure. To learn more about foods that could help regulate your blood pressure, visit realsimple.com/hearthealthy.

1 0 4 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

Ahhh... For those who live with chronic pain caused by conditions like ibromyalgia or arthritis, repeating aspirations can serve as a reminder that you are more than your pain. Take a few slow, full breaths in and out. Let this breathing pattern create a sense of calmness and positivity. Then, on an exhale, say to yourself, “May I be happy.” After a few more breaths, continue whispering or thinking to yourself, “May I be healthy, may I be safe, and may I live with ease.” Take your time saying each line, letting yourself really imagine what it would be like to feel happier, healthier, safer, and more at ease.

STO C K SY

—CYNDI LEE, cyndilee.com

Photograph by Alicia Bock

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money-saving makeover

H O W O N E M O M -T O - B E T R A N S F O R M E D

A 1,5 0 0 - S Q U A R E - F O O T H O M E W I T H $ 1 5,0 0 0

A N D A C A N - D O AT T I T U D E .

stephanie sisco

P H OTO G R A P H S

alyssa rosenheck

fter moving from her hometown of Springfield, Missouri, to Nashville, Elsie Larson and her husband, Jeremy, embarked on a new journey: adoption. The 18-month process produced “an overwhelming mix of excitement, anxiety, and anticipation,” says Elsie. To give herself an outlet during the waiting period, Elsie, cofounder of the lifestyle site A Beautiful Mess, purchased a 1930s bungalow as an investment and began a top-to-bottom renovation. With $15,000 and some creative techniques, the mom-to-be completed the project just in time for daughter Nova’s arrival.

FIREPL ACE FLIP The hearth called for more repairs than the budget allowed, so Elsie opted to close off the fireplace and make it a nonfunctional focal point.

LIVING AND DINING RO OMS

before

Before, a worn-out stone fireplace and dated red curtains made the open-concept living area feel dingy. “A lighter coat of paint instantly makes small spaces appear larger,” says Elsie, who went with a warm shade of white (Marshmallow by SherwinWilliams) on the walls and untinted white on the trim and fireplace. She swapped out the ceiling fan above the dining table for a statement light fixture, which defines the eating area and makes it a focal point of the open space. Elsie added hits of green throughout the house to give it the personality she craved. “Pick your palette first,” she says. “If the whole house is decorated in one color scheme, you can move decor from room to room when you want to change things up.” M AY 2 0 1 8 R E A L S I M P L E

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There is no formal foyer in the house, so Elsie situated a bench near the front door for guests to use when removing and putting on their shoes. A Mongolian fur pillow and a quirky framed photo give the traditional perch a modern vibe.

Story on Wheels art print, $36; alisonholcombphoto.etsy.com. Geomento ceramic tile, $7.20 per square foot, and Delta Trinsic kitchen faucet with Touch20 technology, $473; homedepot.com. Jill rug, $600; appleandoaknash.com for similar. (Opposite page) Ida removable wallpaper, from $48 per panel, wallsneed love.com. (Previous spread) Chester olive green sofa, $1,399, and Mara walnut coffee table, $299; article.com. Natural hide hand-tufted cowhide ivory/natural area rug, $820, Sienna extendable dining table, $1,650, Methuen armchairs, $124 each, and Cristobal Semi Flush Mount, $500; wayfair.com. Moroccan wallpaper mural by Sarah Sherman Samuel, $175 per roll; luluandgeorgia.com. Phoebe rug, $1,500; appleandoaknash.com for similar.

T O B U Y:

1 1 0 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

KITCHEN

before

While this room posed some major challenges along the way (like a rotten subﬂoor), the end result is lively and livable. To save money, Elsie chose to paint the existing cabinetry—white for the uppers and Thunderbolt by Valspar for the lowers—and finish them of with matte black hardware (easy to find at hardware stores) and a durable quartz countertop. At just over $7 a square foot, the patterned ceramic tile brightens up the space and ofers a nice contrast with the dark cabinets. The adjacent dining nook was an awkward size for most store-bought furniture, so Elsie had a colleague build the table and benches, which allow more guests to enjoy the space at once.

P R E V I O U S S P R E A D : N G C O L L E C T I V E S T U D I O A R T W O R K ; N G C S T U D I O A R T. C O M . B A C K D E C K S U N B AT H E R S P H O T O G R A P H , F R O M $ 4 5 ; T H E L O T N A S H V I L L E . C O M

E N T RY WAY

OP TIC AL ILLUSION Wallpapering a small space (including the ceiling) can make it feel cozier. This botanical pattern appears bold up close but subtle from afar.

“ I t a ke i n s p i r a t i o n f r o m d i f fe r e n t d e st i n a t i o n s fo r e a c h h o m e I d e s i g n . I WA N T E D T O M A K E T H I S O N E F E E L

WO OL P OM P OM PILLOW COVER, $1 29; XINHAND CO.COM

D I S T I N C T LY ‘ N A S H V I L L E . ’ ”

STATEMENT TUB The original bathtub had been painted many times previously, so Elsie didn’t feel bad giving it another coat. before

M A S T E R B AT H RO O M The character in this room is what ultimately sold Elsie on the house. She gave the original pedestal tub and existing vanity a fresh coat of green paint and refinished the interior of the tub with an epoxy paint (Rust-Oleum white tub and tile refinishing kit, $26; homedepot.com). A round mirror mimics the curves of the bath, while jute accents and a live plant make the space feel more spa-like.

L A U N D RY R O O M This room gets a lot of natural light, thanks to a wall of windows along the back of the house. That keeps the ﬂoorto-ceiling green paint from feeling overwhelming and gives the utilitarian space some visual appeal. Elsie didn’t want to obstruct the ﬂow between the laundry room and adjoining kitchen with a door, so she opted for a beaded curtain to divide the rooms but keep them easily accessible.

(Above left) Jamie wall mirror, $226; wayfair.com. Delta contemporary singlehandle bar faucet in matte black, $242; homedepot.com. (Left) Big Dot bamboo beaded curtain, $49; urbanoutfitters.com. (Opposite page) Cavaillon panel bed, $290 (full), Thayer Pumice coverlet, $190, and Oldtown handwoven gray area rug, from $159 (5 by 8 ft.); wayfair.com. I Like You Very Much photo, $15; jennysprintshop.com. T O B U Y:

INVISIBLE COMFORT A sleek white fan keeps the second-stor y space cool without drawing attention to itself.

before

To see how we helped Elsie upgrade her bungalow’s curb appeal, visit realsimple.com/porch.

MA STER BEDRO OM Originally painted purple and outfitted with wall-to-wall carpeting, this sloped-ceiling space felt more like a cave than an oasis. Elsie brightened it up with cream-colored walls, neutral textured bedding, and sheer curtains. To make the angles feel intentional, she built a shelving unit around the window for displaying books, photos, and mementos. An iron bed frame adds character to the room without overwhelming it the way a solid wood or upholstered piece might. Since there is no closet upstairs, a wardrobe rack provides a cheap alternative to constructing one from scratch.

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TREE-HOUSE BED Nova can’t wait until she’s big enough to tr y out this cozy fort.

Tree House twin low loft bed, $900; wayfair.com. Abate slatted mirror, $298; anthropologie.com. (Opposite page) Round Vernazza outdoor chairs, $400 for 2, Black and Ivory Stripe indoor/outdoor rug, $150 (5 by 8 ft.), and Jasper outdoor accent stool, $80; worldmarket.com. Urban Barn bronze indoor/outdoor wall lights, $50 each; lampsplus.com. Gesso planter, $125 for 3; zgallerie.com. Front door paint: Isle of Pines SW 6461 in SnapDry; sherwin-williams.com for info. Plants and mulch courtesy of The Home Depot.

T O B U Y:

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KID’S RO OM A fun kid’s space doesn’t require a ton of color. The vibrant blue walls were refreshed with SherwinWilliams Marshmallow paint, and the whimsical lofted bed was filled with plenty of stufed animals. Open storage ofers easy access to toys, while a mirror on the wall opposite the window helps create the illusion of a larger room.

before

more ways to save on a makeover

P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y TAY L O R C O L S O N H O R T O N F O R A D R C R E AT I V E . S P E C I A L T H A N K S T O C O L L I N D U P R E E

y father-in-law once warned me, ‘Count on renovations costing twice as much and taking twice as long as you anticipate,’ ” says Elsie. “If you budget for the unexpected, it won’t be as tough to swallow.” This three-bedroom bungalow provided its fair share of hurdles, but Elsie found creative ways to overcome them and keep her finances in control. When she learned about the rotten kitchen subﬂoor, for example, she decided to forgo hiring a professional to tile the guest bath and went the DIY route instead. She and her team watched online tutorials and spent less than $1,000 on materials. Their revised plan saved nearly $5,000. For those interested in renovating their current home or embarking on a project house to earn passive income, Elsie has three main money-saving tips: 1. Find a house whose walls can stay intact. Ripping them out will likely lead to hidden expenses. 2. Save 75 percent on wallpaper by using it for an accent wall instead of an entire room. 3. Hire a pro to refinish existing wood ﬂoors—it’s much more cost-efective than replacing them. Elsie, husband Jeremy, and their daughter, Nova, enjoy some quality time on the front porch.

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D LE

Y PIC

PEA

PUREE

A PE

L AD

FIVE-SP

ICE

L i ke Pe a s i n a Po d

We combined the freshest springtime produce with hearty ingredients and preparations. These showstopping dishes prove that seasonal meals can still be satisfying. By ANANDA EIDEL STEIN and GR ACE ELKUS

Photographs by GREG DUPREE

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•••

Broiled Shrimp with Spicy PEA PUREE

Five-Spice Lamb Chops with

S k i l l e t S p a n a ko“ P E A”t a

SNOW PEA SALAD ACTIVE TIME 30 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 1 HOUR, 30 MINUTES SERVES 4

1 jalapeño 8 oz. sugar snap peas, trimmed tsp. kosher salt, plus more for boiling peas 10 oz. shelled fresh or frozen English peas cup packed fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves and tender stems 4 Tbsp. olive oil, divided, plus more for serving 3 tsp. lemon zest plus 3 Tbsp. fresh juice (from 2 lemons), divided 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped, divided Freshly ground black pepper 1

lb. peeled and deveined tail-on jumbo shrimp 1 tsp. chopped fresh thyme

1 Tbsp. soy sauce or tamari 1

tsp. toasted sesame oil

tsp. Chinese five-spice powder 1 tsp. honey 12 small (1-in.-thick) lamb rib chops (about 1 lb.) 1 cup shelled frozen edamame

tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more for boiling edamame and snow peas

COOK snap peas in a pot of boiling salted water until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon. Add English peas to pot and cook until tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Reserve cup cooking water; drain.

English peas in a food processor. Add jalapeño, parsley, reserved cooking water, 2 tablespoons oil, 2 teaspoons lemon zest, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, half the garlic, and several grinds of pepper. Process until smooth, scraping sides of bowl as needed. PL ACE

shrimp with thyme, several grinds of pepper, and remaining garlic, 2 tablespoons oil, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and teaspoon salt. Transfer to prepared baking sheet and broil, flipping once, until opaque, 1 to 2 minutes per side. TOS S

shrimp over pea puree. Top with snap peas, pea shoots, and a drizzle of oil. SERVE

2 cloves garlic, chopped tsp. freshly ground black pepper 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided 2 10-oz. pkg. frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed very dry 10 oz. shelled fresh or frozen English peas 8 oz. feta, crumbled (about 2 cups) cup packed fresh dill, chopped

3 cups fresh snow peas (about 8 oz.) 6 medium radishes, thinly sliced

1 Tbsp. packed fresh oregano leaves, chopped

2 Tbsp. unseasoned rice vinegar 2 tsp. grated fresh ginger (from a 1-in. piece) tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided 2 Tbsp. canola oil, divided

jalapeño on a foil-lined baking sheet, turning, until charred, 7 to 9 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and let steam for 5 minutes; peel, stem, and seed jalapeño.

1 leek, white and light green parts only, halved and thinly sliced

1 Tbsp. lemon zest plus 1 Tbsp. fresh juice (from 1 lemon)

2 cups pea shoots (about 4 oz.) BROIL

2 Tbsp. olive oil

2 large eggs, beaten cup plus 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted, divided 8 14-by-9-in. sheets frozen phyllo dough (from a 16-oz. pkg.), thawed

2 scallions, thinly sliced Fresh cilantro leaves, for serving soy sauce, sesame oil, five-spice powder, and honey in a shallow baking dish. Add chops and turn to coat. Cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate for 1 hour. WHISK

a large bowl with ice water. Cook edamame in a pot of boiling salted water until tender, about 3 minutes. Add snow peas and cook until bright green and crisp-tender, 1 to 2 minutes; drain and transfer to ice water to cool. Drain and pat dry. Transfer mixture to a large bowl and stir in radishes, vinegar, ginger, teaspoon salt, and teaspoon pepper. FILL

SEASON chops with remaining teaspoon salt and teaspoon pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon canola oil in a large skillet over high. In batches, cook chops, turning once, until brown, 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil. Repeat with remaining 1 tablespoon canola oil and chops.

chops with snow pea salad, topped with scallions and cilantro. SERVE

oven to 375°F. Heat oil in a 10-inch ovenproof skillet over mediumhigh. Add leek and garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Season with pepper and teaspoon salt. Transfer to a large bowl and add spinach, peas, feta, dill, lemon zest and juice, oregano, eggs, and remaining teaspoon salt. PREHEAT

skillet clean and brush with 1 tablespoon butter. Unroll phyllo (keep covered with a dry kitchen towel). Transfer 1 sheet to a clean surface. Brush with 1 tablespoon butter and place, buttered side up, in skillet, pressing into bottom; fold any overhang toward center. Repeat with 3 more sheets and 3 tablespoons butter. WIPE

another phyllo sheet with 1 tablespoon butter. Place half of sheet, buttered side up, in skillet so half is hanging over rim. Repeat with 3 tablespoons butter and remaining 3 sheets, placing so dough hangs all around rim of skillet. BRUSH

spinach mixture in skillet. Fold overhang toward center and brush with remaining 1 tablespoon butter. SPREAD

until top is golden brown and crispy, 40 to 45 minutes. Let rest for 20 minutes before serving.

BAKE

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P R O P ST Y L I N G BY C L A I R E S P O L L E N ; F O O D ST Y L I N G BY A N N A H A M PTO N

ACTIVE TIME 40 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 40 MINUTES SERVES 4

ACTIVE TIME 55 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 2 HOURS SERVES 6

SKIL

A N A K O “ P E A” T A LET SP

O TT

IS R

A ENGLISH PE

A D P AN

Y LE

••• ENGLISH PEA

and Parmesan Barley Risotto ACTIVE TIME 1 HOUR TOTAL TIME 1 HOUR SERVES 4

cups (8 oz.) shelled fresh English peas (from 1 lb. peas in the pod)

tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more for boiling peas

H WIT D BEANS LL A E A S N N A A E NZ P P PA S N A IO ED CH RR C I A D H A C

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth 1 1-oz. Parmesan cheese rind 1 dried bay leaf 4 Tbsp. olive oil, divided 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 1

cups pearl barley cup dry white wine tsp. freshly ground black pepper 6 oz. Parmesan cheese, grated (about 1 cups), divided 1 cup pea shoots (about 2 oz.)

a large bowl with ice water. Cook peas in a pot of boiling salted water until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Transfer to ice water to cool; drain. FILL

broth, 2 cups water, Parmesan rind, and bay leaf to a simmer in a large pot. Keep warm over low heat. BRING

2 tablespoons oil in a large saucepan over medium. Add onion and garlic and cook, stirring, until softened, about 4 minutes. Add barley and teaspoon salt and cook, stirring, until lightly toasted, about 5 minutes. Add wine and cook, stirring, until absorbed, about 30 seconds. HEAT

••• Radicchio Panzanella with Charred SNAP PEAS AND BEANS ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 40 MINUTES SERVES 4

1 8-oz. loaf crusty bread, torn into bite-size pieces (about 8 cups) 8 Tbsp. olive oil, divided 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more for boiling snap peas and beans

1 cup warm broth into barley and cook, stirring, until liquid is nearly absorbed, about 5 minutes. Continue cooking, adding cup warm broth at a time, stirring until liquid is nearly absorbed after each addition, until barley is tender, about 40 minutes. (You should have cup broth remaining.) Remove Parmesan rind and bay leaf. Stir in peas, pepper, 1 cup grated Parmesan, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt. STIR

stirring, until peas are tender, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in remaining cup broth. Top with pea shoots and remaining cup Parmesan. Drizzle with remaining 2 tablespoons oil.

tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided 3 Tbsp. red wine vinegar 1 tsp. honey 1 red onion, thinly sliced 6 oz. sugar snap peas, trimmed (2 cups) 6 oz. green beans, trimmed (2 cups)

COOK,

1 head radicchio, leaves torn 2

cups loosely packed tender herbs, such as basil, mint, or chopped chives

PREHEAT oven to 400°F. Toss bread with 2 tablespoons oil and teaspoon each salt and pepper on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake, shaking sheet halfway through, until bread is golden and toasted, 10 to 12 minutes. Let cool. MEANWHILE, whisk vinegar, honey, 5 tablespoons oil, and teaspoon salt in a large bowl. Add toasted bread and onion and toss to combine.

a large bowl with ice water. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add snap peas and beans and cook until bright green and crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer snap peas and beans to ice water. Let cool, then drain. Transfer to a large bowl and pat dry. Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil and teaspoon each salt and pepper and toss to coat.

FILL

a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over high. Add snap pea mixture and cook, stirring once or twice, until charred in spots but still crisp, 4 to 5 minutes. Transfer to bowl with bread.

HEAT

radicchio and herbs and toss to combine.

ADD

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We asked hundreds of moms why they wanted a makeover. These five stunners— representing various stages of parenthood— stood out. With customized hair and makeup routines (some five minutes long, some 15), they have the confidence to conquer their next chapter.

A F R E S H S TA RT By HEATHER MUIR MAFFEI Photographs by REMI PYRDOL

1 2 2 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

before

THE NEW MOM CATHERINE 36, software engineer HER FRE SH START

After struggling with infertility, Catherine got pregnant with a baby girl who couldn’t wait to come into the world, making her debut five weeks early. Catherine and her husband schlepped to and from the NICU for weeks, then buckled into the roller coaster ride of first-time parenthood. With her maternity leave nearing an end, Catherine wanted a get-ready routine that didn’t suck up too much time but made her feel pulled together: “I know my old routine won’t scale well to life with a baby and work.” BE AUT Y BRE AKD OWN

A lob with textured ends lightened her look. Mom magic: It’ll dry faster than a longer length, and she can still pull it into a ponytail. “I like that some days I can wash and go, and others I can blow-dry and curl it,” says Catherine. To get her waves, wrap small sections around Harry Josh Pro Tools 2-in-1 Ceramic Marcel Curling Iron 1 Inch ($175; derm store.com). An ammonia-free auburn gloss gave her hair noticeable shine (and washes out in six weeks). For her fiveminute face, we used Estée Lauder Double Wear Light Stayin-Place Makeup ($42; estee lauder.com); Glossier Lidstar in Fawn ($18; glossier.com), which she can apply to lids with her fingers; and Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Dolce Vita ($27; sephora.com).

“It truly feels like my internal light switch was turned back on! I feel so beautiful!”

THE EMPTY NESTER DENISE 54, nurse

before

HER FRE SH START

BE AUT Y BRE AKD OWN

With her fourth child off to college, Denise told us, “I’ve spent more time being a mother and a military wife than Denise. My identity has been so wrapped up in taking care of others that I’ve let who I am slip through my fingers. I’m ready to reclaim my identity through selfcare.” Denise asked for soft makeup and a style that would get her out the door in 30 minutes. “I want to see change!”

We dyed Denise’s hair a warm blonde and added face-framing highlights, then took an inch off the length and cut long layers to make blow-drying easy. We highlighted her gorgeous skin with Glossier Stretch Concealer in Deep ($18; glossier .com), went for a sophisticated monochromatic look for her eyes and lips, and filled in her brows with MAC Cosmetics Brow Sculpt in Lingering ($21; maccosmetics.com).

before

THE JOB HUNTER JOAN 62, par t-time small business consultant HER FRE SH START

Joan spent a whirlwind decade adopting and raising two daughters, a now 10-year-old from Vietnam and a now 7-year-old from Kyrgyzstan. At the same time, she was caring for her elderly parents—her mother passed away three years ago; her father died last fall. “I am trying to build my business back up after being a part-time stay-athome mom,” she told us. “I still do my makeup and hair the same way I did 30 years ago!” BE AUT Y BRE AKD OWN

We cut Joan’s flippy pieces and left her hair longer on top to give her a shape, then evened out her skin tone with By Terry TouchExpert Advanced concealer ($47; nordstrom.com). She wanted a strong lip color that stayed put, which we achieved with MAC Cosmetics Prep + Prime Lip ($18.50; maccosmetics .com) and Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Dragon Girl ($27; sephora.com).

M AY 2 0 1 8 R E A L S I M P L E For a full guide to each woman’s makeup look, go to realsimple.com/makeover.

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before

READY TO DATE CHANTÉ 43, high school assistant principal HER FRE SH START

A single mom to her son, 13, and daughter, 8, for the past seven years, Chanté spent her energy on her kids and her career, going to school to get her administration degree. With her career in a good place, she’s excited to meet someone and wanted her outside to match her larger-than-life personality. BE AUT Y BRE AKD OWN

To create more dimension, we lightened Chanté’s color and added soft brown highlights throughout, then gave her long layers she could wear both natural and smooth. To play up her eyes, we used Charlotte Tilbury Colour Chameleon in Bronzed Garnet ($27; charlottetilbury.com)— one swipe for day, multiple for night—and Maybelline Colossal Big Shot Waterproof Mascara ($8; ulta.com).

MAKEOVER GLAM SQUAD HAIR: Stylists Eugene Smith and Liana Zingarino and colorists Jacob Schmidt and Nikki Ferrara, of Serge Normant at John Frieda salon in New York City MAKEUP: New York City–based makeup artist Moani Lee STYLING: Alpha for See Management MANICURES: Jini Lim using Chanel Le Vernis at See Management

S P E C I A L T H A N K S T O S E R G E N O R M A N T AT J O H N F R I E D A S A L O N A N D L I N D S AY B O O S O F T R A C T E N B E R G & C O .

“My husband had a giant grin on his face when he saw me, and we spent the train ride going home from the shoot holding hands.”

before

THE EXPLORER KRISTINE 40, middle school English teacher HER FRE SH START

BE AUT Y BRE AKD OWN

Kristine got married right out of high school, with her son in attendance. “My identity has been ‘mom’ for so long; I put my other identities on the back burner,” she told us. “With our kids out of the house, I would like to reconnect with my husband, travel, and regain my confidence.”

We dyed her hair a sunny blonde, trimmed her length, and gave her beachy waves. To zap redness—one of her main concerns—we prepped her skin with Witchey Handmade Organic Evening Primrose Youth Serum ($36; witcheyhandmade.com) and swiped on IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+ in Fair ($38; itcosmetics.com).

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SUIT YO U R S E L F There’s a swim st yle for ever y warm-weather your summer plans involve long walks on the beach or cannonballs with the kids. LU C K Y

Fashion Editor R E B EC C A DA LY Photographs by DYAD PHOTOGRAPHY Illustrations by AYUMI TAK AHA SHI

With ruffled straps and a peekaboo keyhole, this dreamy suit is proof that a one-piece can be alluring. TO BUY: $112; everythingbutwater.com.

ST YLING BY SABRINA GRANDE

activit y, whether

FOR A

RO M A N T I C G E TAWAY Pretty prints and feminine frills set the mood for a little R & R with your SO. M I L LY

B E C C A BY R E B E C C A V I RT U E

Looking for an option that’s flirty sans florals and flounce? A lace-up detail does the trick (and is fully adjustable, so the suit will fit you to a T). TO BUY: Wave Jacquard Lace Front halter, $195; milly.com.

With adjustable straps and a draped silhouette, this loose-fit tankini is a fresh twist on a classic shape. Similar styles available in plus sizes. TO BUY: Femme Flora Wrap Tie tankini, $84, and Loop Tie Side bottom, $58; macys.com.

R A C H E L R A C H E L ROY

This pick shows off some skin but offers a little more coverage and security than a bikini. TO BUY: White Floral one-piece, $120; rachelroy.com. EBERJEY

T O R I P R AV E R

A sweetheart halter neckline has a retro vibe, while braided details add a special touch. TO BUY: So Solid Lulu top, $92, and Perry bottom, $72; eberjey.com.

The triangle top features fun ruffles, and the side ties make the bottom adjustable, so it doesn’t pinch or dig. TO BUY: Adriana top, $99, and Roslin bottom, $75; toripraverswimwear.com.

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LISA MARIE FERNANDEZ

Contoured seaming and neoprenelike material hug your curves. TO BUY: Jasmine Tomato Bonded maillot, $370; lisamariefernandez.com.

FOR

SEASIDE S P O RT S Surfing? Volleyball? These athletic styles work for whatever you have planned. L* S PA C E

MIR ACLESUIT

Serve up style worthy of Kerri Walsh Jennings in this game-ready two-piece. TO BUY: Rylie Blocked top, $88, and Mia bottom, $79; lspace.com.

A built-in soft-cup bra, a high neckline, and a keyhole back come together in one super-supportive suit. Also available in plus sizes. TO BUY: Line Up one-piece, $146; nordstrom.com.

M O RG A N L A N E

It may be gym-inspired, but this sporty belted suit looks just as good when you’re lounging in the sand. TO BUY: Tate one-piece, $258; morgan-lane.com. S U M M E R S A LT

C Y N T H I A RO W L E Y

Made from recycled materials, this UPF 50+ suit offers slight compression with a unique shape. TO BUY: The Intercoastal one-piece, $95; gosummersalt.com.

Designed with catching waves in mind, this neoprene style will never sag or stretch out— and it contains SPF 50+. TO BUY: Chelsea Hi-Neck top, $105, and bottom, $105; cynthiarowley.com.

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GOT TEX

Kid-friendly doesn’t have to mean childish. A one-shoulder shape and a cool diagonal pattern make this a sophisticated pick. TO BUY: Asymmetrical one-piece, $188; everythingbutwater.com.

FOR A

POOL PA RT Y Stay-put straps and fuller-cut bottoms make these festive finds perfect for playtime with the kids. AERIE

MAR A HOFFMAN

Extra coverage on the bottom (thanks to a high-rise cut) is modest without being matronly. TO BUY: Scoop top, $35, and High Waisted bottom, $30; aerie.com.

Fun in the sun: You can play all day in a suit with SPF 50+ fabric and a double-wrap band that keeps the top securely in place. TO BUY: Mila top, $160, and Kay bottom, $125; shopbop.com.

SEEA

A R A K S X TA N YA L I N G

Extra-wide straps offer comfortable support, and the high-cut leg lines feel on trend. TO BUY: Jireh one-piece, $310; araks.com.

Designed for surfing (read: ready for activity), this suit is also full of great details, like a vintage-cut bottom and a built-in belt. TO BUY: Karina one-piece, $149; bikini.com.

H I G H D I V E BY M O D C L O T H

The paneled, high-rise bottom smooths without squeezing for a comfy fit. Also available in plus sizes. TO BUY: Sunrise top, $49, and highwaisted bottom, $45; modcloth.com.

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O L D N AV Y

Head to realsimple.com/ swimshopping for more tips on picking your perfect bathing suit.

With adjustable straps (that are also removable) and optional padded cups, this style is practically custom-fit. TO BUY: Knotted-Tie top, $25, and High Waisted bottom, $25; oldnavy.com.

FOR A

SAILING TRIP Whether you’re boarding the next yacht or just want to look like you are, there’s a seaworthy suit for you. SOLID AND STRIPED

M E L I S S A O DA B A S H

Cutout sides and a trendy belt detail lend a little sex appeal to this classic style. TO BUY: The Joan one-piece, $159; bikini.com.

A welcome feature for fuller busts, the boned bodice offers support and shaping. TO BUY: Cyprus one-piece, $240; odabash.com.

CHAPS

Vintage charm (and a little extra coverage) comes courtesy of this skirted silhouette. Also available in plus sizes. TO BUY: Tummy Slimmer Ruched swimdress, $99; kohls.com. HEIDI KLEIN

VA N I L L A B E A C H

The bandeau top enhances curves; the feminine, scalloped bottom is fully elasticized and lined for comfort. TO BUY: Bequia Scallop Soft Ring Bandeau top and Tie Side bottom, $265; heidiklein.com.

Look good coming and going. The cute neckline scallops are repeated— surprise!—around the rear. TO BUY: Scallop Cheeky one-piece, $40; target.com.

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M AY F O O D ST Y L I N G BY A N N A H A M PTO N ; PROP ST YLING BY CL AIRE SPOLLEN

There is perhaps no finer month than May: Spring ﬂowers put on a colorful show, and temperatures mellow enough to eat alfresco. Now we lean toward lighter fare, like a pot of Swiss chard soup with green pesto (page 141). Homemade hummus (page 144) is perfect dolloped on our Grain Medley (page 150)—try the combination as part of a healthy lunch or as a simple side. If pure satisfaction is what you need, we rounded up the best boxed macaroni and cheese (page 148). Though summer is nearly here, comfort is always in season.

Photograph by Greg DuPree

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IT’S MORE THAN A PIE. IT’S A LOVE LETTER.

FOOD

F O O D ST Y L I N G BY M A RY C L A I R E B R I T TO N ; P R O P ST Y L I N G BY C L A I R E S P O L L E N

Easy Dinner 1

Fettuccine with asparagus, leeks, and mint ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 20 MINUTES

SERVES 4

Family Friendly Vegetarian Quick Cooking 1 tsp. lemon zest plus 2 Tbsp. fresh juice (from 1 large lemon) 1 tsp. kosher salt cup olive oil, divided tsp. freshly ground black pepper cup torn fresh mint, divided 10 oz. fettuccine 1 lb. thin asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1 -in. pieces

1 large leek, white and light green parts only 1

oz. Parmesan, shaved (about cup) tsp. crushed red pepper

lemon zest and juice, salt, cup oil, and black pepper in a large bowl. Stir in cup mint.

WHISK

pasta according to package directions. Add asparagus COOK

during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain and cover to keep warm. halve leek lengthwise and thinly slice crosswise into half-moons (about 2 cups). Place in a medium bowl filled with water and let stand for 1 minute, stirring occasionally. Lift leek slices from water (leaving any grit behind) and drain on paper towels.

MEANWHILE,

2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Cook leeks, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 4 minutes. Add lemon mixture, pasta, and asparagus to skillet with leeks and toss to combine. Serve topped with cheese, crushed red pepper, and remaining cup mint. Drizzle with remaining 2 tablespoons oil. HEAT

P E R S E RV I N G : 576 CALORIES, 31G FAT (5G SAT.), 9MG CHOL., 2G FIBER, 14G PRO., 61G CARB., 679MG SOD., 5G SUGAR

Recipes by Adam Hickman Photographs by Victor Protasio

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139

FOOD

1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard 2 tsp. lemon zest plus 1 Tbsp. fresh juice (from 1 large lemon) 4 8-oz. bone-in pork loin chops

Easy Dinner 2

Skillet pork chops with shaved carrot and fennel salad ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 20 MINUTES SERVES 4

1 tsp. kosher salt, divided tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided 3 Tbsp. olive oil, divided 2 small rainbow carrots 1 medium fennel bulb, very thinly sliced (about 2 cups) cup loosely packed fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves

mustard and lemon zest evenly over both sides of chops. Season with teaspoon each salt and pepper. RUB

1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add chops to skillet and cook until deeply browned, 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium-well.

HEAT

PEEL carrots and, using a vegetable peeler, shave into thin ribbons. Place carrots, fennel, parsley, and remaining teaspoon salt and teaspoon pepper in a medium bowl; toss to combine. Drizzle with lemon juice and remaining 2 tablespoons oil. Serve pork chops with carrot and fennel salad.

One Pot Gluten-Free Quick Cooking

1 4 0 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

P E R S E RV I N G : 371 CALORIES, 20G FAT (5G SAT.), 99MG CHOL., 3G FIBER, 38G PRO., 8G CARB., 713MG SOD., 4G SUGAR

FOOD

cups packed fresh basil leaves cup toasted almonds

Easy Dinner 3

Spring beanand-chard soup with toasted almond pesto ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 20 MINUTES SERVES 4

Freezable Make Ahead One Pot Gluten-Free Vegetarian Quick Cooking

1 large clove garlic, peeled and smashed cup olive oil, divided 2 carrots, chopped (about 1 cup) 2 stalks celery, chopped (about cup) 3 cups vegetable broth 1 tsp. kosher salt 2 15.5-oz. cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed, divided 1 bunch Swiss chard, leaves chopped (about 3 cups), plus 1 cup finely chopped stems

basil, almonds, and garlic in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped, about 5 times. With processor running, drizzle in cup oil; process until smooth.

COMBINE

remaining 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high. Cook carrots and celery, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes. Add broth and salt and bring to a simmer. Using a fork, mash 1 can of beans in a bowl. Add mashed beans, whole beans, and chard leaves and stems to Dutch oven. Cook, stirring often, until chard is slightly wilted, about 2 minutes. HEAT

SERVE

soup topped with pesto.

P E R S E RV I N G : 573 CALORIES, 42G FAT (5G SAT.), 0MG CHOL., 11G FIBER, 14G PRO., 39G CARB., 1,011MG SOD., 6G SUGAR

M AY 2 0 1 8 R E A L S I M P L E

141

FOOD

Easy Dinner 4

Peanut chicken with charred scallions and rice ACTIVE TIME 30 MINUTES

TOTAL TIME 30 MINUTES

SERVES 4

Family Friendly Gluten-Free Quick Cooking

1 cup basmati rice 4 8-oz. bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1 Tbsp. canola oil 2 scallions, cut into -in. pieces 1

lb. fresh broccoli, cut into long florets cup creamy peanut butter cup canned coconut milk, well-shaken tsp. grated fresh ginger tsp. grated fresh garlic cup chopped dry-roasted, salted peanuts Lime wedges, for serving

rice according to package directions. COOK

chicken dry with paper towels and season with teaspoon salt. Heat oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Cook chicken, skin side down, until browned and crispy, 5 to 7 minutes. Flip, cover, and cook until cooked through, about 8 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Add scallions to skillet and cook until charred, 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside. PAT

broccoli and cup water to skillet. Cover and cook until tender, 3 to 4 minutes. Uncover and stir in cooked rice and remaining teaspoon salt. Remove from heat.

ADD

WHISK peanut butter, coconut milk, ginger, garlic, and 2 tablespoons water in a small bowl. Serve chicken with rice and broccoli. Drizzle with peanut sauce and top with peanuts. Serve with lime wedges. P E R S E RV I N G : 605 CALORIES, 27G FAT (7G SAT.), 124MG CHOL., 6G FIBER, 37G PRO., 54G CARB., 718MG SOD., 4G SUGAR

1 4 2 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

FOOD

1 16-oz. skin-on salmon fillet (about 1 in. thick)

Easy Dinner 5

tsp. kosher salt, divided

Salmon, radish, and Bibb salad with herby buttermilk dressing ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 20 MINUTES

SERVES 4

Healthy Pick One Pot Gluten-Free Quick Cooking

tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided 1 tsp. olive oil cup buttermilk 3 Tbsp. mayonnaise 3 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil, plus leaves for serving 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh mint, plus leaves for serving 1 small clove garlic, grated 1 4-oz. head Bibb lettuce, leaves torn in half 3 radishes, thinly sliced (about cup)

SEASON salmon with teaspoon each salt and pepper.

oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high. Cook salmon, skin side down, until opaque and cooked most of the way through, about 7 minutes. Flip and cook to desired doneness, about 3 minutes for medium-well. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes. Break into large pieces and discard the skin.

HEAT

buttermilk, mayonnaise, chopped basil, chopped mint, garlic, and remaining teaspoon salt in a small bowl. Toss together lettuce, radishes, basil leaves, mint leaves, and remaining teaspoon pepper in a large salad bowl. Top with salmon and drizzle with dressing. WHISK

P E R S E RV I N G : 205 CALORIES, 9G FAT (2G SAT.), 73MG CHOL., 1G FIBER, 27G PRO., 3G CARB., 437MG SOD., 1G SUGAR

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FOOD

Make It Yourself A D E L I C I O U S E SS E N T I A L T H AT’ S B E T T E R H O M E M A D E T H A N S T O R E - B O U G H T. W E ’ L L P RO V E I T. T H I S M O N T H : HUMMUS By Ananda Eidelstein

F O O D ST Y L I N G BY A N N A H A M PTO N ; P R O P ST Y L I N G BY C L A I R E S P O L L E N

It doesn’t take much time or effort to make a batch of fresh hummus. This thick and luscious dip doubles as a spread and comes together with just a few simple ingredients. Find tahini, a classic addition, in cans or jars at the supermarket. Once you nail down the basic recipe, experiment with toppings like herby falafel, chopped hard-boiled eggs, or spiced and crispy browned ground lamb. A platter of refreshing crudités mingling with pickled vegetables is a welcome touch on the side.

144 REAL SIMPLE

Photographs by Greg DuPree

FOOD

ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 20 MINUTES MAKES 3 CUPS

2 15.5-oz. cans chickpeas (3 cups), drained and rinsed cup tahini 1

tsp. lemon zest plus 3 Tbsp. fresh juice (from 2 lemons) 2 tsp. kosher salt tsp. freshly ground black pepper, plus more for serving tsp. ground coriander 1 small clove garlic, grated 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving Paprika, chopped parsley, and flaky sea salt, for serving (optional)

chickpeas, tahini, lemon zest and juice, kosher salt, pepper, coriander, and garlic in the bowl of a food processor or blender. Pulse until chickpeas are roughly chopped, about 20 times. COMBINE

cup water and process, scraping down sides of bowl as needed, until smooth, about 2 minutes. With motor running, slowly add oil and process until very smooth.

ADD

in a shallow bowl and drizzle with oil. Top with paprika, parsley, and flaky sea salt, if desired. SERVE

1 4 6 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

Walnut, Vegetable and Chicken Quesadillas

California Walnuts F O R T H E B E S T K I D F R I E N D LY M E A L S E V E R For flavor, crunch and heart-healthy* goodness, remember the California walnuts. For these and other recipes your kids will love, visit Walnuts.org So Simple. So Good.™

Per one ounce serving.

*Heart-Check food certification does not apply to recipes unless expressly stated. See heartcheckmark.org/guidelines. Supportive but not conclusive research shows that eating 1.5 ounces of walnuts per day, as part of a low saturated fat and low cholesterol diet and not resulting in increased caloric intake, may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. (FDA) One ounce of walnuts provides 18g of total fat, 2.5g of monounsaturated fat, 13g of polyunsaturated fat including 2.5g of alpha-linolenic acid – the plant-based omega-3.

Chicken and Walnut Dumpling Soup

Waldorf Salad

Walnut Chili Mac

FOOD

R o a d Te s t B E S T G LU T E N - F R E E LiveGfree Gluten Free Deluxe Macaroni & Cheese White and brown rice noodles are smothered in a rich Cheddar sauce for a gluten-free option—we spooned up seconds. TO BUY: $2 for 12 oz.; at Aldi.

Macaroni and Cheese W E T R I E D E V E RY B O X O U T T H E R E T O F I N D T H E O N E S T H AT R I VA L H O M E M A D E . By Grace Elkus BEST CL ASSIC

Back to Nature Organic USDA Macaroni & Cheese This no-frills pick surprised us with its silky-smooth sauce and extra-long elbows. The short, organic ingredient list also gets a thumbs-up. TO BUY: $2.50 for 6 oz.; at grocery stores.

B E S T V EGA N

Annie’s Organic Vegan Mac and Cheese, Cheddar Flavor Many vegan varieties have a distinct aftertaste. This one boasts the same comforting flavor as classic—sans dairy. TO BUY: $2.80 for 6 oz.; at grocery stores.

BEST SHELL S

365 Everyday Value Organic Deluxe Shells and Creamy Cheddar Sauce Thanks to a squeezable pouch of cheese sauce that gets stirred into the warm noodles, every single shell is coated in a decadently thick and creamy sauce—no clumps in sight. TO BUY: $4 for 12 oz.; at Whole Foods.

B E S T W H I T E C H E D DA R

Kraft White Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese The mild white Cheddar flavor and the nostalgic elbow shape make this a winner for family dinners and dorm meals alike. Opt for whole milk and the suggested half stick of butter for an irresistibly gooey sauce. TO BUY: $1.25 for 7.3 oz.; at grocery stores.

B E S T F ROZ E N

Trader Joe’s Hatch Chile Mac & Cheese Roasted Hatch chiles and aged Cheddar make for a smoky, grown-up take. Unlike many frozen varieties, the noodles stayed al dente when heated. TO BUY: $3 for 12 oz.; at Trader Joe’s. For our best mac and cheese recipes, go to realsimple.com/macaroni.

1 4 8 R E A L S I M P L E M AY 2 0 1 8

Photographs by Dyad Photography

K R A F T P R O D U CT I M AG E C O U RT E SY O F M A N U FACT U R E R

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F R E S H I S A LWAYS I N S T Y L E Buitoni freshly made pasta and sauce available in your grocer’s refrigerated aisle. BUITONI.COM

FOOD

Big Batch

Grain medley ACTIVE TIME 10 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 1 HOUR MAKES 11 CUPS

2 medium yellow onions, peeled and halved 6 cloves garlic, crushed 6 sprigs fresh thyme 3 dried bay leaves 1 Tbsp. plus 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1

cups long-grain brown rice

cups semipearled farro

cups white or red quinoa, rinsed and drained tsp. freshly ground black pepper

onions, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves in a large saucepan. Add 12 cups water and 1 tablespoon salt. Cover and bring to a boil. COMBINE

onion mixture is boiling, remove lid and stir in rice. Return to a boil and cook, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Add farro and cook for 10 minutes. Add quinoa and cook for 8 minutes.

WHEN

through a fine wire-mesh strainer, shaking well to remove any excess water. Transfer grains to a rimmed baking sheet, spreading out to cool, and season with pepper and remaining 1 teaspoon salt. When cool, discard any large pieces of onions, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves.

TO FREEZE: Portion grain medley into resealable bags and stack flat in freezer. TO THAW: Place frozen grain medley in a microwavable bowl; discard freezer bag. Microwave on high in 1-minute intervals until warm. Or reheat in a pan on stovetop. P E R S E RV I N G ( 1 C U P ) : 265 CALORIES, 2G FAT (0.3G SAT.), 0MG CHOL., 5G FIBER, 9G PRO., 53G CARB., 349MG SOD., 1G SUGAR

150 RE AL SIMPLE

Recipe by Grace Elkus Photograph by Greg DuPree

F O O D ST Y L I N G BY A N N A H A M PTO N , P R O P ST Y L I N G BY C L A I R E S P O L L E N

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Pacific Tidepool: This is the shade you want to see in your entryway the moment you turn your key in the lock, step onto the doormat, and immediately trip over the 14 back issues of the New Yorker you can’t recycle because you are totally going to read them as soon as you have time. I’m sorry, what are we talking about? Pacific Tidepool! Yes! This is a blue that draws the eye away from the fact that you clean your house by shoving clutter into tote bags and then hanging the tote bags on closet doorknobs. It complements the can of orange soda that has tipped over onto the boot tray, saturating a pair of socks, a Spider-Man backpack, and a permission slip you never signed because no one ever gave it to you.

Antiguan Daybreak: An inviting yellow tone for the living room that picks up on the warm hues of the rug. A strong choice for a color that will make you feel like you’re falling into a hammock at a resort or (at the very least)

154 REAL SIMPLE

one that’ll distract you from the dust bunnies and halfeaten fruit leather welded to a toy Batmobile. Where is Antigua again? Totally hypothetical, but how much would a ﬂight be to get there for a weekend?

Shaded Cedar: The subtle darkness of this green is ideal in the bathroom, as it keeps people from noticing the tub full of plastic bath toys you’re too exhausted to put back into that mesh bag. When combined with slate ﬂoor tile, it makes you feel like you’re unwrapping your sanitary pad in an enchanted forest, and by “an enchanted forest” I mean a forest that keeps making your bobby pins disappear. Also, cedar is highly favored in canoe building, on the of chance you were considering, oh, I don’t know, paddling to Antigua in lieu of going to another PTA meeting. Or whatever. Whatever, right?

Mercurial Arctic: As an accent wall color in your dining room, this is a calm gray that will dissipate any tension that accumulates when your kids repeatedly ask whether they can have iPhones. Not that we’re implying mealtimes are tense—they’re totally not, because obviously no one is ever tired or closed of and there’s definitely never a baby hysterically crying even though you’re giving him mozzarella sticks and that always works. Also, this paint is named for the planet Mercury, not liquid mercury, the element that drove people to madness after repeated exposure. Also, can someone

please help me clear the table instead of just walking away to watch TV or I swear on my life I am buying these Antigua tickets and probably not round-trip.

Equestrian Hazel: This is a rich, gorgeous tan hue that, in a bedroom, brings to mind an upscale horse barn, like maybe someplace a young Jacqueline Kennedy would have found solace. Not like a “barn” barn, but a place where you could sip a Bordeaux and read and tend to your Thoroughbred horses while your housekeeper made dinner while simultaneously entertaining the children.

Heritage Cream: A hallway color that makes you feel like you could totally aford a horse farm in Virginia or a $493,000 two-bedroom cabin in Antigua. (Not that you were sitting in your bathroom looking at real estate on your phone again.) Heritage Cream has an old-fashioned sort of stoicism. You may be tired, but you’re far from beaten. The days may be long, but they’re nothing you can’t handle. It allows you to walk your hallway with confidence and hold your head higher—if only to avoid seeing that someone has drawn a stegosaurus defecating a rainbow in markers near the baseboard.

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