RS - March 2020 by Lawrence Ambrocio

From the moment you wake up in a charming small town, to the afternoon you ride incredible terrain, Montana is full of amazing adventures. Discover your #MontanaMoment at VISITMT.COM.

Thoughts

“Each of us is born with a box of matches inside us but we can’t strike them all by ourselves.”

STO C KSY

—L AUR A E S QUIVEL, Like Water for Chocolate

2 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

Photograph by Adam Nixon

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E d i t o r ’s N o t e

How I Finally Got Over My Dining Room #simplestor y

but I have hosted exactly one sit-down dinner party in the past 15 years (funny how that matches the age of our kids). This year, though, I agreed to host one of the school’s “Night of 100 Dinners” fundraisers. When the email came, I mentally rattled off my usual excuses (my table’s too small, not everyone likes lasagna). But then “Party with a Purpose,” on page 108, took care of my decor and menu problems. Still, my biggie remained: What would people think of my dining room? Five years ago, when we were on vacation, my daughter Sophia saw how much fun I had playing Ms. Pac-Man at an arcade, and she whispered to her father that it would be a swell birthday gift for me. Most parents would praise the sweet thought and then explain that Mommy and Daddy don’t need their own arcade games because that’s what makes arcades so fun. But my husband—a man who built a tree house and installed a zip line in the backyard—never met a family activ-

L OV E T O C O O K ,

4 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

ity he didn’t want to own. Not only could he imagine the fun we’d have, but he also knew how proud Sophia would be that the idea had been hers. A search on Craigslist began. What thought! What effort! What a birthday surprise! Did I suggest that maybe the basement might be a more appropriate home for the gift? I did not. Did I say out loud that the blue-and-yellow console clashed with the dining room rug? I did not. Did I tell Steve later that OMG it’s the coolest gift ever but remember we planned to finally redo the dining room? I most certainly did not. As the years passed, I did spruce up the room. Down to the basement went the stuffed animals that had been sitting on the cabinet so long I’d stopped noticing them, and I removed the arts and crafts bins. But Ms. Pac-Man—now bedecked in fairy lights—has remained. My brother-in-law claims the high score from last Christmas. My daughter Olivia has almost cracked the path that lets you breeze through the first level. And every few months, I’ll round up some neighbors for Pac-Man Night. It’s BYOB, we order pizza, and everyone RSVPs yes. For the high school fundraiser, you can name your own theme. We’re going with Pac-Man and Pizza, and I’m not embarrassed one bit.

Last winter, I started planning a photo shoot with Herbal Essences. I was newly pregnant, and they asked, “When is the latest you’ll be photographed?” I was like, “I’m pregnant, but I’m not ashamed of it.” Well, the shoot ended up being on a freakishly hot, 90-degree day in October, when I was in my eighth month. That was one of my last days at work before maternity leave. I’m now at home—and I feel like I have been forever. When I saw the page in the February issue, it honestly made me emotional. I remember being so pregnant, and now my son is here, in my kitchen! That shoot feels like yesterday, and it also feels like a different lifetime. Of course, I had to hold the page up to my son and show him—and I’m so happy he smiled. —@ H M U I R Heather Muir, Real Simple beauty director

Let’s look for meaningful moments in our lives and share them here. Tag your Instagram posts with #simplestory and @LizVaccariello to get them to me.

Photograph by Grace Huang

M A K E U P BY C L E L I A B E R G O N ZO L I ; H A I R BY A M Y K L E W I T Z FO R P R O - ST Y L E- C R E W M A N AG E M E N T; WA R D R O B E ST Y L I N G BY G I N A D O N N E L LY. C O U R T E SY O F H E AT H E R M U I R

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Contents March 2020

O N T H E C OV E R

The Smartest Beauty Products of All Time

Foods That Power Up Health

Throw a Party for a Good Cause

108

Easy Ways to Refresh Your Curb Appeal

And the beauty winners are… 50 game changers and time-tested favorites

Great Neighbor Awards 102

102

108

Whip up restaurant-style Mexican at home

We spotlight five great neighbors

Host a fun party to raise money for charity

Cover Photograph by Anna Williams P r o p S t y l i n g b y Pa m e l a D u n c a n S i l v e r Product St yling by Alison Attenborough

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

Contents

1 18

A few neat tricks can enhance curb appeal

Easy weeknight dinners in the bag!

The joys of a multigenerational trip

Thoughts

Editor’s Note

relating

the realist

5 Ways to Boost Your Luck

Real Simple 24 /7

A Better-Tasting Cup of Tea

Your Words

Cooking School

Good Read

The easy way to bake bread (no need to knead!) 34

The fancy objects Laura Lippman lusts after don’t jibe with her comfy style

My Simple Realization

Curb Enthusiasm

what we love

Affordable upgrades for your home’s exterior 36

Vanity Revamp

Organize This

Dress up your dressing table

Pretty Smart Beauty buys to simplify your routine 22

What Should I Read Next? Books for every taste

The Staple Chia seeds

Little Helpers Clever items that make every day better 28

Modern Manners

4 Charity Challenges Even the Most Generous People Encounter Giving, simplified

Ahhh Take a breather

Tips for a truly relaxing trip with grandparents and kids

balance 16 Easy Hacks to Make Your Life at Work More Comfortable

118

Better for You Eggplant-mushroom “meatballs”

126

Road Test Dips

128

Big Batch Make-ahead oatmeal peanut butter bars

130

for fun

features Bright, spicy flavors on your table—no takeout required

5 Easy Dinners

Denim Cuts for the Rest Of Us

Modern Mexican

All Together Now! 42

Incorporate these tasty, nutrient-packed bites into your daily diet 78

Petiquette Avoid animal-related faux pas

Spring Mix Create new outfits all season long with just 10 key pieces

Catherine Newman offers unstinting advice 62

The 50 Best Beauty Products Innovations, standbys, and problem-solvers our editors rely on

Up the good vibes—and your productivity 73

Room Rx Design around sloped ceilings

Keep the car clutter-free

food

A Fresh Crop of Superfoods

132

What Makes a Great Neighbor With the help of Nextdoor, we celebrate five amazing people committed to their communities 102

Party with a Purpose Three no-fuss gatherings that put the fun in fundraising 108

REAL SIMPLE (ISSN 1528-1701) (MARCH 2020) (VOLUME 21/ISSUE 3) IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY TI GOTHAM INC. TI GOTHAM INC. IS A WHOLLY OWNED SUBSIDIARY OF MEREDITH CORPORATION. PRINCIPAL OFFICE: 225 LIBERTY ST., NEW YORK, NY 10281-1008. 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, PO BOX 37508, BOONE, IA 50037-0508. CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT #40069223. BN# 13200211RT001. © ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SUBSCRIPTIONS: FOR 24/7 SERVICE, PLEASE USE OUR WEBSITE: REALSIMPLE.COM/MYACCOUNT. YOU CAN ALSO CALL 1-800-881-1172 OR WRITE REAL SIMPLE, PO BOX 37508, BOONE, IA 50037-0508. REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. YOUR BANK MAY PROVIDE UPDATES TO THE CARD INFORMATION WE HAVE ON FILE. YOU MAY OPT OUT OF THIS SERVICE AT ANY TIME. FOR SYNDICATION OR INTERNATIONAL LICENSING REQUESTS OR REPRINT AND REUSE PERMISSION, EMAIL SYNDICATION@MEREDITH.COM.

8 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

Nunzio Saviano’s The Cream is the miracle product that finally gave my hair the glossy sheen I covet.

Liz Vaccariello EDITOR IN CHIEF

Emily Kehe CRE ATIVE DIRECTOR EXECUTIVE EDITOR Rory Evans EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR Lavinel Savu

I’m ride-or-die for Drunk Elephant’s marula oil. So much so that I’ve turned all my friends on to it too.

PHOTO DIRECTOR Muzam Agha DEPUT Y EDITOR Anna Maltby

E D I TO R I A L FE ATURES EDITOR Elizabeth Sile SENIOR EDITOR Brandi Broxson A SSISTANT EDITOR Martha Upton

Sometimes less really is more. When my skin starts to freak out, I strip my routine down to the basics. After a few days of using just a gentle cleanser and oil-free moisturizer, I’m back at square one and can start experimenting again!

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Melanie Mannarino, Catherine Newman

FO OD FO OD DIRECTOR Jenna Helwig FO OD EDITOR Ananda Eidelstein

B E AU T Y

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, GROUP PUBLISHER

Kristin Guinan A SSO CIATE PUBLISHER, MARKETING

A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S E A ST COA ST

MIDWEST VICE PRESIDENT, GROUP SALES DIRECTOR Mindy Provenzano INTEGR ATED ACCOUNT DIRECTORS Margaret Graff, Jennifer Latwis ADVERTISING SALES A SSISTANT Teri Dasbach

WEST COA ST INTEGR ATED ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Janet Yano

MARKETING A SSO CIATE MARKETING DIRECTOR Michael Texier SENIOR MARKETING MANAGERS Misty Chandler, Chanel Rivers MARKETING CO ORDINATOR Genevieve Herdegen ART DIRECTOR Sarah Massimo

C O N T E N T, S T R AT EGY & I N S I G H T S

BE AUT Y EDITOR Lisa DeSantis

VICE PRESIDENT Andy Borinstein DIRECTORS Karen Bakos, Emily Fleishman SENIOR MANAGER Kseniya Ivnitskaya MANAGER Maura Ruane

HOME HOME DIRECTOR Stephanie Sisco SENIOR A SSO CIATE HOME EDITOR Leslie Corona CONTRIBUTING HOME EDITORS

Cat Dash, Julie Vadnal

FA S H I O N A SSO CIATE FA SHION EDITOR Flavia Nunez CONTRIBUTING FA SHION A SSISTANT Belle Bakst

A RT & P H O T O DESIGN DIRECTOR Deanna Lowe DEPUT Y PHOTO EDITOR Lawrence J. Whritenour Jr. DESIGNER Lina LeGare

P RO D U C T I O N EDITORIAL PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Filomena Guzzardi

C O P Y & R E S E A RC H

In a pinch, a frozen spoon on tired, puffy eyes for five minutes works wonders.

E A STERN ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Lizzie Meier Utt INTEGR ATED ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Donna Lindskog INTEGR ATED ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Haley Carter, Kerry Dunne ADVERTISING SALES A SSISTANT Lindsey Weiss

BE AUT Y DIRECTOR Heather Muir Maffei A SSISTANT BE AUT Y EDITOR Anneke Knot

Wearing a very high, tight ponytail during exercise is the best way to extend the life of my blowouts.

Daren Mazzucca

What’s your personal beauty hack or product?

P RO D U C T I O N , C I RC U L AT I O N & F I N A N C E PRODUCTION DIRECTOR John Beard SENIOR PRODUCTION MANAGER Courtney Thompson PRODUCTION TR AFFIC SUPERVISOR Matthew Fischels DIRECTOR OF QUALIT Y Joseph Kohler COLOR QUALIT Y ANALYST Pamela Powers A SSO CIATE CONSUMER MARKETING DIRECTOR Lynn Bolinger NEWSSTAND RETAIL Rose Cirrincione EXECUTIVE BUSINESS DIRECTOR Janice Croat A SSO CIATE BUSINESS DIRECTOR Bryce Rockers ADVERTISING BUSINESS MANAGER Zena Norbont

After my facialist told me apple cider vinegar is an exfoliant, I started making a face toner by mixing ACV with water, witch hazel, and a drop of essential oil.

D I G I TA L VICE PRESIDENT, CONTENT STR ATEGY & OPER ATIONS Melissa Inman SENIOR DIRECTOR, CONTENT STR ATEGY Heather Morgan Shott GENER AL MANAGER, HOME Angelique Jurgill DIRECTOR, GROW TH MARKETING Beth Ifcher CRE ATIVE DIRECTOR Rebecca Hart E-COMMERCE EDITORIAL LE AD Chloe Reznikov SENIOR AUDIENCE RETENTION MANAGER Kelly Lage

COPY & RESE ARCH CHIEF Jenny Brown

I stopped washing my face with hot water—even in the shower—and it’s made a difference for my sensitive skin. From now on, cool water only!

CONTRIBUTING SENIOR RESE ARCH EDITOR

Maya Kukes

R E A L S I M P L E .C O M EXECUTIVE EDITOR Mickey O’Connor DEPUT Y EDITOR Jennifer Davidson SENIOR EDITOR, HOME Katie Holdefehr SENIOR EDITOR, FO OD Betty Gold LIFEST YLE EDITOR Rachel Sylvester SEO EDITOR Lauren Phillips A SSO CIATE EDITOR Maggie Seaver PHOTO MANAGER Olivia Barr A SSISTANT PRODUCER Taylor Eisenhauer EXECUTIVE VIDEO PRODUCER Karen Berner SENIOR VIDEO PRODUCER Christopher Smith VIDEO PRODUCER Alex Frank NEWS VIDEO PRODUCER Amy Frank

My grandmother stressed the importance of removing makeup and moisturizing. Pond’s Cold Cream Cleanser is a favorite product of mine because it’s still her go-to.

M E R E D I T H N AT I O N A L M E D I A G RO U P PRESIDENT, MEREDITH MAGA ZINES Doug Olson PRESIDENT, CONSUMER PRODUCTS Tom Witschi PRESIDENT, CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER Catherine Levene CHIEF BUSINESS & DATA OFFICER Alysia Borsa CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER Michael Brownstein MARKETING & INTEGR ATED COMMUNIC ATIONS Nancy Weber

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENTS CONSUMER REVENUE Andy Wilson CORP OR ATE SALES Brian Kightlinger DIRECT MEDIA Patti Follo RESE ARCH SOLUTIONS Britta Cleveland STR ATEGIC SOURCING, NEWSSTAND, PRODUCTION Chuck Howell DIGITAL SALES Marla Newman THE FOUNDRY Matt Petersen PRODUCT & TECHNOLO GY Justin Law

VICE PRESIDENTS FINANCE Chris Susil BUSINESS PL ANNING & ANALYSIS Rob Silverstone CONSUMER MARKETING Steve Crowe BR AND LICENSING Steve Grune CORP OR ATE BE AUT Y Ahu Terzi CORP OR ATE COMMUNIC ATIONS Jill Davison VICE PRESIDENT, GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Liz Vaccariello DIRECTOR, EDITORIAL OPER ATIONS & FINANCE Alexandra Brez

M E R E D I T H C O R P O R AT I O N PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Tom Harty CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER John Zieser CHIEF STR ATEGY OFFICER Daphne Kwon PRESIDENT, MEREDITH LO C AL MEDIA GROUP Patrick McCreery SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, HUMAN RESOURCES Dina Nathanson CHAIRMAN Stephen M. Lacy VICE CHAIRMAN Mell Meredith Frazier

10 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

My kindergartner wakes up with insane bedhead. Brushing her long, thick hair used to be an epic bat tle— until I discovered the palm-size Tangle Teezer hairbrush. It gets the tangles out without pulling, catching, or tears.

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Real Simple 24/7 FOLLOW US ONLINE FOR E XCLUSIVE IDE A S, TIP S, A N D W AY S T O M A K E L I F E E A S I E R — E V E RY D AY.

MEET

J E N N A H E LW I G

1 0 F O O D S T H AT A R E S A B O TA G I N G YO U R S L E E P

FO OD DIRECTOR AT R E A L S I M P L E

Reconsider that last slice of pizza before bedtime and you’ll feel more energized when the alarm goes off.

Kitchen essential: A very sharp chef’s knife makes cooking a pleasure. Go-to recipe: I actually have a problem with this—my family complains that I never cook the same thing twice! Everyday uniform: Nice jeans, boots, and a blazer. @JENNAHELWIG ON INSTAGRAM

How to Have a Healthier Relationship with Your Phone Never mind the kids—do you need to cut down on screen time? These quick strategies will help you break the habit. Find them at realsimple.com/digitaldeclutter.

LISTEN UP! To activate our new audio skill that gives you a recipe, cleaning trick, or beauty idea every day, say, “Hey, Google. What’s the latest from Real Simple Tips?” For more info, go to realsimple.com/tips.

5 Household Items to Throw Out ASAP Plastic loofahs, of course, but how long have you been sleeping on your pillows? Only the dust mites know for sure.

P I N T E R E ST @REALSIMPLE

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Read more at realsimple.com/ cleanup.

Open

12 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

and tap

over this Pincode for helpful hacks.

FAC E B O O K @REALSIMPLE

I N STAG R A M @ R E A L _S I M P L E

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 W E S T O N W E L L S ; G R A C I A L A M ; G E T T Y I M A G E S ; A A R O N DY E R ; G E T T Y I M A G E S

Get the list at realsimple .com/sleep.

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Yo u r W o r d s

What’s a little thing you do to show your loved ones you care?

If I borrow my husband’s car and notice he’s low on gas, I’ll surprise him and fill the tank. J E A N N E S M Y T H , M I L L B U RY, M A SS AC H U S E T T S

I moved to California from Indiana on a whim when I was 18. I have called my parents every Sunday since to check in with them, and I’m almost 60 years old. I look forward to these calls as much as they do. KAREN WEAVER, MARTINEZ, CALIFORNIA

I end my text messages with a handwritten heart. LILI SONG, MARIETTA, GEORGIA

“ SU R P R I S E T H E M W I T H CO F F E E TO S H OW YO U CA R E ! ” @ C _ CATC H

# R S L OV E

I wake up thinking, “What can I do to make their day special?” And then I try to do it! JUDY JONES, FREDERICKSBURG, TEXAS

I organize my husband’s sock drawer. One morning, I was awakened by my husband looking through his sock drawer with a flashlight. I asked him why he didn’t just turn on the overhead light, and he said he didn’t want to wake me up. So that week, when I did the laundry, I organized his sock drawer (brown on the left, a few colors in the middle, and black on the right). I showed it to him when he got home so he would know where each color was. The next morning, no flashlight, and I could hear him say under his breath, “Wow, that really did work!” He left for the day a happier man. KIMBERLY HON, WICHITA, KANSAS

14 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

Two of our daughters commute to college from home. I know money is tight, so sometimes I clean their windshields. A clean windshield makes the whole car feel clean. @GLLJOURNALPAGES

My husband is stationed in the Middle East for the next year. Each month, I buy a card and write him a mini love letter. He keeps them on his nightstand and opens one after a rough day. CELINA KLINE, PORTLAND, OREGON

The Instagrammer who shared the photo on this page will receive our new special edition, The Power of Less. Want to be considered for this column? Tag photos on Instagram with #rslove.

It’s not really a little thing, but a simple one. I just treat my loved ones the way I’d like to be treated, with respect, kindness, and dignity. The people in my life know I care by my actions and words and consistency. ELLEN EGEL, ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI

When I have time and the kitchen counter isn’t too covered, I bake bread for family and friends. It took most of one summer after work hours to figure out, but I adapted a familyfavorite oatmeal bread for my bread machine. M.A. SAUNDERS

Reader of the Month

A R I E L T U R N E R , 35

A homemade meal for anyone needing a little love. It’s one way I hug. @TRACILMA

Everyone thinks I’m a pretty good gift buyer, but the truth is I listen all year to what each person tells me is wonderful, and I go back and buy it. The upside for me is that by September, all my holiday gift buying is finished— and I know everyone will like their gift because they already told me it was something they really wanted.

When my son and daughter-in-law visit from New York, I put fresh flowers in the guest room to welcome them. JUDI TRUESDALE, LESTER, PENNSYLVANIA

Get up early to let the dogs out so my husband can sleep. PATRICIA SMITH

I show up. Whenever. Wherever. You can count on me to show up. @NANSI1

GREENVILLE, S O U T H C A RO L I N A P U B L I C I ST

What’s a little thing you do to show you care? I play soup fairy and drop off mason jars full of love to my people who need a boost. What’s your favorite room? Wherever the most sunlight is—so my sitting room. Most organized part of your life: My mixing bowls. Least organized part of your life: Everything else. What’s your “me” time? Cooking after a long day while enjoying a glass of wine. What’s your “meh” time? Packing school lunches. What’s always in your home? Laughter and the lingering scent of bacon.

C O U RT ESY O F C H ES L E Y AS H FO R D P H OTO G R A P H Y

SANDRE MOORE, PLEASANTON, TEXAS

When my adult children visit, I have their favorite foods waiting for them: lemon chicken, biscotti, and spaghetti and meatballs. LYNN FORSTER, KINGWO OD, TEX A S

Next Question W H AT’ S A W O R D O R P H R A S E YO U A LWAY S A SS O C I AT E W I T H YO U R DA D ? Send an email to yourwords@ realsimple.com and let us know your answer to this question. Your response could appear on these pages.

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

My Simple Realization

“I Have You Now” H E R L I T T L E D A C H S H U N D M AY B E S I C K , B U T H E ’ S S T I L L F U L L O F S P I R I T, Q U I R K S , A N D L O V E . By Karen Sandstrom

we had a sweet basset hound named Ramona. One day I found a lump on her back and freaked out, assuming the worst. A trip to the vet revealed it to be nothing more than a common blob of fat. Ugly, but not deadly. So I wasn’t worried when Roscoe, our rescue dachshund, developed a bump on his right thigh. This time, though, the vet visit led to a CAT scan and a grim cancer diagnosis. Surgery might buy some time but would be unable to save him. Feel free to insert a string of profanity. I know I did. Yet here we are, five months later. Roscoe remains mostly as he was—a neurotic little alien, full of quirks (he’s scared of hands) and love (he’s very attached to me) and appetites (for walks, car rides, acorn squash). He is still Roscoe. I am the one living in a different world. It’s familiar territory for anyone who has loved a being with an incurable illness. One day we’re all occupying a shared

16 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

fantasy of endless sunny tomorrows, and the next day we’ve been booted into a dimming landscape. I think of this world as the In Between. It’s darker, but there’s still sunlight left. One morning soon after we got Roscoe’s diagnosis, my heart felt especially sick. My wise and kind friend Kate Matthews had just survived a year of far too many hard losses. I texted her, “How do I avoid wasting all our time together pre-grieving?” Kate responded that when her yorkie, Fletcher, was fading, she would sit with him and say to him and herself, “But I have you now.” I joke darkly with pet-loving friends that every time you adopt an animal, you tell yourself, “This creature is going to live to age 18 and die peacefully in its sleep.” That hasn’t happened to me yet. In my experience, dogs in particular tend to leave us long before we’re ready and under circumstances that sorely test our faith in the benevolence of the universe.

When a beloved takes sick, the door to the place of endless sunshine slams shut. When that happens, though, “I have you now” is exactly the right way to frame the time left together. One morning, Roscoe wakens me as usual at 5 with his familiar impatient face licks, and I have him now. The next day, he is listless, flat-eared, and uninterested in breakfast, but I have him now. He leaps for his meal or sneaks through my legs out the door to the garage to demand a ride, and I have him now. And I watch the terrible tumor grow from a tangerine to an apple, but I give him a pain pill and I have him now. Eventually, of course, “I have you now” will run out. My hope is that the joy we manage to steal in the face of mortality will serve us well. Today I have Roscoe. And today he gets anything he wants. KAREN SANDSTROM IS A WRITER AND ILLUSTRATOR IN CLEVELAND.

I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y S A N N Y VA N L O O N / S H O P A R O U N D

Y E A R S AG O,

Pawleys Island

Face time that isn’t phoned in. Take in 360-degree views from the top of a historic lighthouse, fish on the edge of a sun-drenched pier or wander through a Moorishstyle castle just steps from the beach. Recharge your batteries on a seaside family vacation, and come to find that unplugging is the fastest way to reconnect.

DiscoverSouthCarolina.com

E V E RY T H I N G O U R E D I T O R S A R E B U Z Z I N G A B O U T T H I S M O N T H

Vanity Revamp G L A M U P YO U R M O R N I N G RO U T I N E WITH THESE PRET T Y AND PR ACTIC AL D R E S S I N G T A B L E A C C E S S O R I E S.

P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y H E AT H E R G R E E N E F O R H E L L O A R T I S T S

By Cat Dash

P h o t o g r a p h b y Te d + C h e l s e a C a v a n a u g h

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

W H AT W E LO V E

2 1

3 We’re obsessed with this funky cheetah pattern, which comes in two other color schemes.

4 7

1 C O M B C RU S H

2 SIT TING PRET TY

Scalloped metallic detailing elevates this ceramic stool. It’s great for small spaces because it easily tucks under the table. TO BUY: Cathy Terepocki Ceramic Stool, $148; anthropologie.com.

20 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

3 O U T S I D E T H E B OX

Nix the cardboard carton and use this acrylic-andwood design instead. TO BUY: Tissue Dispenser, $54; humancraftd.com. 4 RO S E - G O L D S TA N DA R D

Corral makeup brushes and beauty tools in this luxe four-compartment container. TO BUY: Mirrored Divided Beauty Organizer Cup, $39; pbteen.com.

Store your go-to jewelry on a sculptural, geometric holder. TO BUY: Umbra Prisma Jewelry Stand, $25; amazon.com. 6 S E C R E T S TA S H

This 25-inch mirror’s base has a drawer to hide those not-so-eyecatching essentials. TO BUY: Vennesla Table Mirror, $60; ikea-usa.com.

7 KEEP IT GL ASSY

Utility goes high-style with pastel glass jars. TO BUY: Containers, from $15; us.hay.com. 8 SEEING SP OTS

Keep this mirror handy for when you need to check the front and back of your ’do. TO BUY: Cheetah Hand Mirror, $38; wolfum.com.

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 FA C T U R E R S

You’ll use it to detangle, sure—but it’s stylish enough to leave on display. TO BUY: Wave Comb, $18; poketo.com.

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Prett y Smar t

Sweeten Your Skin Care PLUS SE VEN OTHER BE AUT Y BU YS TO S I M P L I F Y YO U R RO U T I N E By Lisa D eSantis

Kiwi Botanicals Honey Melt Facial Cleansers in Brightening, Purifying, and Nourishing The buzzworthy stuff has antibacterial properties, making it a natural cleansing ingredient. Add a little water to the gel to create a light lather that washes without stripping. TO BUY: $10 each; walmart.com.

P h o t o g r a p h b y Te d + Chelsea Cavanaugh

W H AT W E LO V E

The pick slides to where you want your part. P E R F E C T PA RT

Tokyo Tort Leandro Limited Parting Tool For a straight, neat part on the very first try, glide the pick to the desired spot on the band, push the band back to your crown, and lift. TO BUY: $14; ulta.com.

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

QUICK COLOR CHECK

LBK Nail Lacquers You’ll love all the shades and the vegan formula, but the true genius is the trybefore-you-buy swatch. Simply pop up the little oval on the cap and place your finger beneath it. TO BUY: $7 each; at Walmart.

L I P E X F O L I AT O R

Daily Concepts Lip Scrubber Slide this silicone baby onto your finger and gently brush your lips. The flexible bristles slough off dead skin, creating a smooth surface for lipstick. TO BUY: $6; ulta.com.

H E A LT H Y F LU S H

Maybelline New York Cheek Heat Gel-Cream Blush in Nude Burn This oil-free blush is petite and portable— just slip it into your bag or pocket. Dab a few dots on the apples of your cheeks for a natural-looking flush. TO BUY: $8; at drugstores.

CURL ENHANCER Use on clean lips, then rinse lips with warm water.

Emerge My Everything Butter Cream It’s loaded with pequi oil, the new gold standard for nourishing and softening thirsty coils—at a bargain price. TO BUY: $7; target.com.

SHAMPOO TO SHARE

PRECISE CORRECTER

Odele Smoothing Shampoo and Conditioner Finally, a fix for all that clutter on the shower shelf: hair products everyone can use, with a unisex fragrance and chic packaging. TO BUY: $12 each; target.com.

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Eraser Stick If you went overboard on liquid liner or your lipstick is bleeding, this little wonder will make even the smallest smudges disappear, with no residue. TO BUY: $10; at drugstores.

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

W H AT W E LO V E

The Short List

What Should I Read Next? T O P P I C K S F O R E V E RY T A S T E By Elizabeth Sile

Coming of (middle) age Immersive read Fans of Emily St. John Mandel’s 2014 hit, Station Eleven, will devour her next novel. The Glass Hotel follows the rise and fall of a Ponzi scheme, showing how two siblings’ lives entangle with that of the fraudster. With this highly readable narrative that switches perspectives, Mandel has written what might be the novel about the 2008 financial crisis—and the mentalities and greed that caused it.

Erica Bauermeister and her husband had set out to buy a turnkey house in remote Port Townsend, Washington. They ended up falling in love with a dilapidated four-bedroom and its “Darwinian” yard. House Lessons, Bauermeister’s memoir-in-essays, details her years of renovation and the ways she changed in the process.

Page-turner Sweeping history In The Mountains Sing, Nguyen Phan Que Mai traces a half century of Vietnam’s history through the stories of Tran Dieu Lan, who loses her livelihood during the 1950s land reform, and her granddaughter Huong, who comes of age in the 1970s during the Vietnam War. This poetic novel illustrates how their sacrifices ripple through the family.

The glamorous founder of a women’s coworking space vanishes on the eve of a huge news conference in Andrea Bartz’s The Herd. Police initially figure Eleanor has run off to Mexico, but those closest to her suspect otherwise. This thriller offers a nonstop plot and layers of mystery— not to mention smart commentary on female friendships and social media.

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

P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y H E AT H E R G R E E N E F O R H E L L O A R T I S T S

At 50, Judy reaches an all-time low. Cleaning out her basement, she finds her son’s old baby sling, takes one look at the dog, and pops her in for immediate comfort. Over the course of Laura Zigman’s Separation Anxiety, Judy navigates unsteadiness and grief—for her career, her marriage, her friend’s cancer, her son’s growing up and away from her— toward a deeply affecting conclusion.

Cozy memoir

24 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

P h o t o g r a p h b y Te d + C h e l s e a C a v a n a u g h

Hip &

HISTORIC Stroll along charming streets where vintage buildings house contemporary uses. You’ll want to stay awhile in Frederick, Maryland. Embrace the lively and diverse art scene, buy local at dozens of specialty shops, then indulge in restaurants that will surprise and satisfy. Escape to picturesque national and state parks in our countryside, experience our storied past at Civil War battleﬁelds, and unwind at our wineries, breweries, and distilleries.

visitfrederick.org • 800-999-3613

W H AT W E LO V E

Quick Ideas The Staple

Cook with Chia Seeds Tiny but mighty, these black seeds are rich in protein, fiber, and omega-3s (which are healthy for the heart, brain, and seemingly everything else). Though popular in smoothies and oatmeal, chia seeds aren’t just for breakfast. Add them to rice pilaf for extra fiber. Or use them in a smoky veggie burger as a binder, since they plump up when mixed with wet ingredients. They even take on a nice gel-like texture, making them the perfect thickener for a zesty vinaigrette.

1 CHIA PIL AF WITH PE STO

Cook 1/2 cup finely chopped onion in 1 Tbsp. butter in a saucepan over mediumhigh until softened, 4 minutes. Add 1 1/2 cups rinsed jasmine rice. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Stir in 1 1/2 cups chicken broth and 1 Tbsp. chia seeds. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Add 2 tsp. store-bought pesto and fluff with a fork. 2 S M O K Y- S W E E T P OTATO B U RG E R S

Pulse 2 1/2 cups shredded sweet potato, 1 (15 oz.) can drained and rinsed cannellini beans, 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/4 cup chia seeds, 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, 1 tsp. kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp. black pepper in a food processor until combined. Form into 6 patties. Cook in 2 Tbsp. olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high until browned, 5 minutes per side.

Whisk 2 Tbsp. each lime juice, olive oil, and water, 1 Tbsp. chia seeds, 2 tsp. each Dijon mustard and honey, 1 tsp. kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp. black pepper in a medium bowl. Let stand for 15 minutes.

By Ananda Eidelstein Recipes by Anna Theoktisto

26 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

Photograph by Corey Olsen

P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y M I A K O K AT O H

3 LIME AND CHIA VINAIGRET TE

These Aren’t Your Mother’s Cookies. They Just Taste Like it. PEPPERIDGE FARM FARMHOUSE

THERE’S NO TASTE LIKE HOME ™

W H AT W E LO V E

2 MINI NOISE MACHINE

1 BET TER D O G B O OTS

These water-resistant leggings go on more easily than traditional booties. The rubber treads help prevent slipping and protect paws from mud, snow, and salt. TO BUY: Dog Leggings, from $29; walkeepaws.com.

Great for travel, this tiny wonder has 11 sounds (including whirring fans and ocean surf) to help you drift off. It doubles as a Bluetooth speaker. TO BUY: LectroFan Micro2, $35; soundofsleep.com.

S T O WA B L E B O T T L E

Little Helpers

You’ll break the habit of leaving behind your water bottle when you can crush it down to a mere three inches and toss it into your bag. TO BUY: 20 Oz. Bottle, $25; stojo.co.

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

Z I P PA B L E F O O D B A G

ME A SURING CUP

A ham-and-cheese sandwich never looked as virtuous—or stylish—as it does in this chic, machinewashable pouch. TO BUY: Medium Storage Bag, $9 for 2; rezip.com.

28 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

5 B A C K- S AV I N G S E AT

You’ll always have a comfy place to sit, whether you’re hiking or watching a game from the bleachers, thanks to this lightweight, adjustable nylon chair. TO BUY: REI Co-op Trail Chair, $35; rei.com.

Shake, mix, and store your wet ingredients in this lidded four-cup essential. Dishwasher and microwave safe. TO BUY: Cravings by Chrissy Teigen Liquid Measuring Cup, $15; target.com.

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 FA C T U R E R S

By Brandi Broxson

W H AT W E LO V E

Room Rx

Design Around Sloped Ceilings T R A N S F O R M I N G A T I G H T S PA C E I N T O L I V A B L E Q U A R T E R S C A N B E A C H A L L E N G E . I N T E R I O R D E S I G N E R N AT E B E R KU S O F F E R S H I S A DV I C E . By Leslie Corona

Q: We often host guests who travel to see us, so we need more room for sleeping. We have a finished attic, but the sloped ceilings are tricky. How can we decorate to maximize the extra space? —Sabine, homeowner in New Windsor, New York

LIE LOW

I N C O R P O R AT E T E X T U R E

SP OTLIGHT SCONCES

DRESS UP THE WIND OWS

Go with a platform bed that won’t crowd the room or compete with the architecture. If possible, position the bed beneath the tallest part of the ceiling so visitors can avoid bumping their heads. TO BUY: Tessu Queen Bed in Clay Taupe, $699; article.com.

A single wall color will make the room feel bigger. Add interest and a luxe vibe by using a topcoat that creates a plaster effect. TO BUY: Aura Paint in Olympic Mountains 971, $70 per gallon, and Studio Finishes Glaze, $32 per gallon; benjamin moore.com for info.

Don’t overwhelm the mostly triangular space with a lot of boxy furniture. Skip traditional side tables and lamps. Instead, flank the bed with adjustable sconces hung at the corners of the headboard. TO BUY: West Elm & Rejuvenation Cylinder Sconce, $199; westelm.com.

Choose roller shades that are wider than the frame and mount them at the ceiling to fake a larger opening. Opt for blackout lining so guests get more restful sleep. TO BUY: Designer Roller Shades by Nate Berkus, from $345; theshadestore.com. Submit your own design dilemmas to room.rx@realsimple.com.

30 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

Illustration by Babeth Lafon

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 FA C T U R E R S

ECZEMA: UNDER CONTROL.

SO ROLL UP THOSE SLEEVES. DUPIXENT is a breakthrough in the treatment of uncontrolled moderate-to-severe eczema (atopic dermatitis) for ages 12 and up.

RHONDA, REAL PATIENT. Individual results may vary.

DUPIXENT helps restore the look and feel of skin. And it’s not a cream or steroid. It’s a biologic that continuously treats eczema over time–even between flare-ups. See and feel a significant difference with:

Clearer skin

Fast itch relief

• In clinical trials at 16 weeks, 37% of adults and 24% of teens (ages 12-17) saw clear or almost clear skin vs 9% and 2% not on DUPIXENT. • And 38% of adults and 37% of teens (ages 12-17) had significantly less itch vs 11% and 5% not on DUPIXENT.

TALK TO YOUR ECZEMA SPECIALIST AND VISIT DUPIXENT.COM OR CALL 1-844-DUPIXENT (1-844-387-4936) INDICATION DUPIXENT is a prescription medicine used to treat people 12 years of age and older with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) that is not well controlled with prescription therapies used on the skin (topical), or who cannot use topical therapies. DUPIXENT can be used with or without topical corticosteroids. It is not known if DUPIXENT is safe and effective in children with atopic dermatitis under 12 years of age.

instructed by your healthcare provider. This may cause other symptoms that were controlled by the corticosteroid medicine to come back; are scheduled to receive any vaccinations. You should not receive a “live vaccine” if you are treated with DUPIXENT; are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether DUPIXENT will harm your unborn baby; are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known whether DUPIXENT passes into your breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION all the medicines you take, including Do not use if you are allergic to prescription and over-the-counter dupilumab or to any of the ingredients medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. If you are taking asthma in DUPIXENT. medicines, do not change or stop your Before using DUPIXENT, tell your asthma medicine without talking to healthcare provider about all your your healthcare provider. medical conditions, including if you: have eye problems; have a parasitic DUPIXENT can cause serious side (helminth) infection; are taking oral, effects, including: topical, or inhaled corticosteroid • Allergic reactions (hypersensitivity), medicines. Do not stop taking your including a severe reaction known corticosteroid medicines unless as anaphylaxis. Stop using DUPIXENT

and tell your healthcare provider or get emergency help right away if you get any of the following symptoms: breathing problems, fever, general ill feeling, swollen lymph nodes, swelling of the face, mouth and tongue, hives, itching, fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded (low blood pressure), joint pain, or skin rash. • Eye problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new or worsening eye problems, including eye pain or changes in vision.

to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Use DUPIXENT exactly as prescribed. DUPIXENT is an injection given under the skin (subcutaneous injection). If your healthcare provider decides that you or a caregiver can give DUPIXENT injections, you or your caregiver should receive training on the right way to prepare and inject DUPIXENT. Do not try to inject DUPIXENT until you have been shown the right way by your healthcare provider. In children 12 years of age and older, it is recommended that DUPIXENT be administered by or under supervision of an adult.

The most common side effects in patients with atopic dermatitis include injection site reactions, eye and eyelid inflammation, including redness, swelling and itching, and cold Please see Brief Summary on next sores in your mouth or on your lips. page. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of DUPIXENT. © 2019 Sanofi and Regeneron Call your doctor for medical advice Pharmaceuticals, Inc. about side effects. You are encouraged All Rights Reserved. DUP.19.09.0036

YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR AS LITTLE AS A $0 COPAY*

*Limitations apply. Visit DUPIXENT.com for full program terms.

Brief Summary of Important Patient Information about DUPIXENT® (dupilumab) Rx Only (DU-pix’-ent) injection, for subcutaneous use What is DUPIXENT? • DUPIXENT is a prescription medicine used: – to treat people aged 12 years and older with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) that is not well controlled with prescription therapies used on the skin (topical), or who cannot use topical therapies. DUPIXENT can be used with or without topical corticosteroids. • DUPIXENT works by blocking two proteins that contribute to a type of inflammation that plays a major role in atopic dermatitis. • It is not known if DUPIXENT is safe and effective in children with atopic dermatitis under 12 years of age. Who should not use DUPIXENT? Do not use DUPIXENT if you are allergic to dupilumab or to any of the ingredients in DUPIXENT. See the end of this summary of information for a complete list of ingredients in DUPIXENT. What should I tell my healthcare provider before using DUPIXENT? Before using DUPIXENT, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you: • have eye problems • have a parasitic (helminth) infection • are taking oral, topical, or inhaled corticosteroid medicines. Do not stop taking your corticosteroid medicines unless instructed by your healthcare provider. This may cause other symptoms that were controlled by the corticosteroid medicine to come back. • are scheduled to receive any vaccinations. You should not receive a “live vaccine” if you are treated with DUPIXENT. • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether DUPIXENT will harm your unborn baby. Pregnancy Registry. There is a pregnancy registry for women who take DUPIXENT during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about your health and your baby’s health. You can talk to your healthcare provider or contact 1-877-311-8972 or go to https://mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/ dupixent/ to enroll in this registry or get more information. • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known whether DUPIXENT passes into your breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. If you have asthma and are taking asthma medicines, do not change or stop your asthma medicine without talking to your healthcare provider. How should I use DUPIXENT? • See the detailed “Instructions for Use” that comes with DUPIXENT for information on how to prepare and inject DUPIXENT and how to properly store and throw away (dispose of) used DUPIXENT pre-filled syringes. • Use DUPIXENT exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. • DUPIXENT comes as a single-dose pre-filled syringe with needle shield. • DUPIXENT is given as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous injection). • If your healthcare provider decides that you or a caregiver can give the injections of DUPIXENT, you or your caregiver should receive training on the right way to prepare and inject DUPIXENT. Do not try to inject DUPIXENT until you have been shown the right way by your healthcare provider. In children 12 years of age and older, it is recommended that DUPIXENT be administered by or under supervision of an adult. • If you miss a dose of DUPIXENT, give the injection within 7 days from the missed dose, then continue with the original schedule. If the missed dose is not given within 7 days, wait until the next scheduled dose to give your DUPIXENT injection. • If you inject more DUPIXENT than prescribed, call your healthcare provider right away. • Your healthcare provider may prescribe other medicines to use with DUPIXENT. Use the other prescribed medicines exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to.

What are the possible side effects of DUPIXENT? DUPIXENT can cause serious side effects, including: • Allergic reactions (hypersensitivity), including a severe reaction known as anaphylaxis. Stop using DUPIXENT and tell your healthcare provider or get emergency help right away if you get any of the following symptoms: breathing problems, fever, general ill feeling, swollen lymph nodes, swelling of the face, mouth and tongue, hives, itching, fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded (low blood pressure), joint pain, or skin rash. • Eye problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new or worsening eye problems, including eye pain or changes in vision. The most common side effects of DUPIXENT include: injection site reactions, eye and eyelid inflammation, including redness, swelling and itching, and cold sores in your mouth or on your lips. Eye and eyelid inflammation, including redness, swelling and itching have been seen in patients who have atopic dermatitis. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all of the possible side effects of DUPIXENT. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088. General information about the safe and effective use of DUPIXENT. Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use DUPIXENT for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give DUPIXENT to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. This is a summary of the most important information about DUPIXENT for this use. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for more information about DUPIXENT that is written for healthcare professionals. For more information about DUPIXENT, go to www.DUPIXENT.com or call 1-844-DUPIXENT (1-844-387-4936) What are the ingredients in DUPIXENT? Active ingredient: dupilumab Inactive ingredients: L-arginine hydrochloride, L-histidine, polysorbate 80, sodium acetate, sucrose, and water for injection Manufactured by: Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591 U.S. License # 1760; Marketed by sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC, (Bridgewater, NJ 08807) and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Tarrytown, NY 10591) DUPIXENT is a registered trademark of Sanofi Biotechnology / ©2019 Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. / sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC. All rights reserved. Issue Date: June 2019

DUP.19.08.0101

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 R O B L E M S

P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y H E AT H E R G R E E N E F O R H E L L O A R T I S T S

S E C R E T S TO A B E T TE R-TA S TI N G CU P O F TE A Brewing the best cup of tea boils down to... not using boiling water, which can affect the flavor, says Piotr Miga of Tea Forté in Maynard, Massachusetts. If you’re making black or herbal tea, heat water to just below boiling, about 208 degrees Fahrenheit. (Look for a few big, round bubbles, or use a kettle with a temperature gauge.) Let the bag steep for about five minutes. For green or white tea, heat water to 175 degrees—you’ll see steam and little beadlike bubbles—and steep for about three minutes. Filtered water is key too, Miga says, since tap water may have chlorine and minerals that throw off the taste. Another tip from the “who knew?” file: Don’t wring tea bags into your cup. It can release tannins that may make your cuppa bitter, says Melanie Mock of the tea-subscription service Sips By. If the flavor is too strong, just plunk in a few ice cubes to dilute it. Then sit, sip, and relax. By Maggie Puniew ska

P h o t o g r a p h b y Te d + C h e l s e a C a v a n a u g h

Looking for something new to brew? Discover the benefits of yerba maté tea at realsimple.com/yerbamate.

REAL SIMPLE

THE REALIST

Cooking School

The Easiest Way to Bake Bread F O R A P E R F E C T N O - K N E A D L O A F F R O M Y O U R O W N O V E N , S I M P LY S T I R T O G E T H E R A FEW INGREDIENTS AND LET TIME D O ITS THING. KEEP THESE TIP S CLOSE. By Lindsay Maitland Hunt

Yeast 101 W H AT I T I S

M I X YO U R D O U G H

LET IT RISE

BAKE IT RIGHT

First measure the flour—ideally bread flour, since its high gluten content will give the loaf structure, though all-purpose works in a pinch. Maintaining a precise ratio of flour to salt to yeast is important. A digital scale is most accurate; if you don’t have one, use a dry, not liquid, measuring cup. Stir in yeast, salt, and water until a shaggy dough forms. “Hold back a little water in the beginning, and don’t be afraid to add more if the dough feels too stiff,” says David Norman of the Easy Tiger Bake Shop and Beer Garden in Austin, Texas. “Better a little wet than too dry.”

To develop deep flavor without kneading, the dough needs a good, long rest in a warm spot. Place the shaggy mixture in a bowl about three times its volume, then let the dough rise until doubled in size, 12 to 18 hours. Try this hack to gauge the dough’s growth: At the start of the rise, tightly cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Looking straight down at the dough, trace its outline with a Sharpie. When the dough is about twice that size, take it out, shape it into a ball, and place it on parchment paper. Now it’s ready for a second, shorter rise—this time only 1 to 2 hours.

A heavy, lidded pot, like a Dutch oven, is the secret to a pro-style burnished crust. “The pot acts as an oven within the oven, trapping the steam created by the dough,” says Jim Lahey, the founder of Sullivan Street Bakery in New York City, who helped popularize the no-knead method. Heat the pot in the oven for 20 minutes, then use the parchment as handles to lower the dough in. Cover and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove the lid and continue baking until the crust is golden brown, about 15 minutes. Tap the top of the loaf to test for doneness. According to Apollonia Poilâne, CEO and owner of the famed Poilâne bakery in Paris, it “should sound like knocking on a wooden door.”

T RY O U R N O - K N E A D BRE AD RECIPE

Yeast is a microorganism. It works its magic by eating the sugars in flour and then producing alcohol and carbon dioxide as it digests. Carbon dioxide gets trapped in the dough, causing it to puff, or rise. H O W I T’ S U S E D

The amount of yeast in a recipe is indirectly proportional to rise time: The no-knead method requires a long rise to compensate for the lack of kneading, so you use a small amount of yeast. P RO O F O F L I F E

If a recipe calls for proofing the yeast, first measure the water and heat it in the microwave until just warm (about 105ºF). Sprinkle the yeast over the water— it may fizz slightly and start to look fuzzy at the edges. Eventually it will bloom into a bigger, mushier shape. If the yeast is dead, the grains will sink to the bottom of the bowl.

Hover your phone’s camera here to get our delicious recipe.

34 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

Ilustrations by Adam Cruft

M A K E YO U R H O M E F E E L W E LCO M I N G E V E N B E FO R E G U E ST S R E AC H T H E F RO N T D O O R. By Petra Guglielmetti

36 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

C O U RT ESY O F D E B C O H E N @T H E F R O N T D O O R P R OJ ECT

Curb Enthusiasm

Use that space between the street and your threshold to show off your personal style.

THE REALIST

when you see it, and you definitely notice when it’s lacking. Yet sometimes it’s hard to pinpoint what exactly makes a particular house on the block so much more welcoming than the next. “You don’t need a big budget to create outstanding curb appeal,” says Deb Cohen, who runs the popular Instagram account @thefrontdoorproject. What you do need: color and contrast, balance, and good old-fashioned TLC. “Contrast dictates what our eye sees first, like a pot of yellow flowers against red brick,” explains Paula Monthofer, a real estate agent in Flagstaff, Arizona. Balance—a thoughtfully composed garden bed, symmetrical window boxes—affects our first impressions more subtly. “Balance and symmetry convey stability,” Monthofer says. Now put your best house forward with these expert tricks.

A D O B E S T O C K ; P R O D U C T I M A G E C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U FA C T U R E R

YO U K N OW C U R B A P P E A L

Upgraded garage doors can add character.

Give Garage Doors a Lift garage doors dominate what you see from the street, but they often lack the detail or depth of the rest of the home. One fix that requires zero commitment (and almost as little effort): temporary or magnetic decorative hardware— like handles, hasps, and faux window panels. These accessories add interest and remain secure, says DIY expert Jenna Shaughnessy, creator of the blog Jenna Kate at Home. Garage doors are also paintable, and shifting away from basic white (or worse, dingy whitish) can have a huge impact. Paint the garage to match your siding so it blends in, or opt for the same contrasting shade as your front door. This can be a weekend project if you use a fast-drying exterior semigloss paint, like Sherwin-Williams SnapDry Door & Trim Paint ($80 per gallon; sherwin-williams.com for info). Some door finishes may require a coat of primer first; ask at the store if you’re not sure. Save this project for mild, dry weather—not humid or rainy—so the paint can dry properly. IN MANY NEIGHBORHOODS,

Household Essentials Hinge It Decorative Magnetic Garage Door Accents, $20 for 6; bedbathand beyond.com.

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

A variety of greenery creates texture and interest.

TIP FOR BAL ANCED BEDS

Spruce Up Your Shrubs

38 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

are two of the best ways to boost curb appeal, according to a recent study. Mulch doesn’t just give beds color and contrast—it also helps prevent the spread of weeds and keeps the soil moist. Avoid dyed mulches, which can contain contaminants, and go for simple materials native to your region, like tree bark or wood chips in the Northeast or crushed shells in Florida. “Layer about two inches of fresh mulch onto your beds each spring; it’ll break down throughout the year and provide vital organic fertilizer for your plants,” says Blythe Yost, cofounder and head designer at Tilly, an online landscape-design company. MULCHING AND PRUNING

As for pruning, if your shrubs look “leggy,” or show more branches than greenery, they likely need some extra snipping. “You want to bring light and air to the plant so it grows on the inside as well as the outside,” Yost says. “This will make it denser and fuller.” It’s best to prune manually, using very sharp tools; motorized pruners simply skim the surface, which can lead to blocked light and poor air circulation. Granted, not every shrub in your yard has to be pruned. Popular hedge plants, like boxwood, holly, taxus, privet, and cherry laurel, do become lush and neat with regular pruning, but other favorites—like junipers, spruces, and cedars—generally don’t respond well to it. Talk to an expert at your nursery or do a quick internet search to find out how much maintenance your plants require.

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

The prettiest gardens are full of layers. Ideally, find a mix of evergreen and deciduous plants of different heights and textures. Put the tallest in back and the lowest in front. “Consider plants with a vibrant impact, long-lasting blooms, or interesting foliage,” says Missy Henriksen of the National Association of Landscape Professionals.

THE REALIST

Light the Way as jewelry for your house—a chance to accessorize and showcase personality. The newer solar and LED models make it easier than ever to play around. A few ways to enhance your home with outdoor lighting: T H I N K OF L IG H T F I X T U R E S

I L LU M I N AT E T H E E N T I R E F RO N T

Don’t rely on a single post lamp or garage-mounted floodlight. “A clear path to your front door adds warmth and provides security,” says Gena Kirk, vice president of design for the development company KB Home. Rather than flanking the path runway-style, tuck solar-powered spotlights into garden beds and aim them along the walkway. PAT H .

Hampton Bay Solar Black Outdoor Integrated LED Landscape Spotlight, $50; homedepot.com.

U P DAT E YO U R P O RC H F I X T U R E S .

Carson Gooseneck Wall Sconce in Polished Copper, $579; rejuvenation.com.

This can instantly improve the look of your home, both day and night. “Exterior lights are worth a little extra investment, since they get quite a bit of abuse from the elements,” Cohen notes. “Inexpensive fixtures and hardware may show wear more quickly and need to be replaced much sooner.” Choose brass or copper fixtures, which are typically more resistant to corrosion than aluminum ones; the brands Hubbardton Forge and Rejuvenation offer sturdy picks trusted by architects and designers. AT N I G H T, U P L I G H T P R E T T Y PA RT S O F YO U R YA R D O R H O U S E ,

Kichler 6-Inch Wide Landscape Accent Light, $64; build.com.

like a specimen tree, the front porch, or a neat row of shrubs. Angle a spotlight or “bullet” light toward the canopy of a tree to add depth to your lighting scheme. “This is the opposite of uplighting,” Yost says. “Place fixtures in trees so they shine down on the pathway and lawn for a soft, natural glow.” T RY M O O N L I G H T I N G.

Sconces light the front steps and make a bench more inviting.

Kichler MR16 Brass Downlight, $95; houzz.com.

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

THE REALIST

Organize This

Declutter Your Car P RO T I P S A N D L I F E - C H A N G I N G P RO D U C T S T H AT W I L L K E E P T H E I N T E R I O R T I D Y By Stephanie Sisco

I N YO U R G LOV E C O M PA RT M E N T

Attach your registration and insurance card to a mini clipboard and store it beside the manual. If you’re always forgetting coupons or gift cards, stash them in a mini accordion folder. TO BUY: Blush Office Set, $23; papersource.com. C-Line 13-Pocket Poly Expanding File, $4.50; amazon.com.

I N YO U R C E N T E R C O N S O L E

This spot can quickly become a black hole of tissues, loose change, and fast-food sporks. Instead, make it a home for just the essentials, like phone chargers, a flashlight, and hand sanitizer. Corral them in a narrow organizer to maximize the long, deep space. TO BUY: Like-it Bricks Narrow Bins, from $4; containerstore.com.

O U R E X P E RT S

Divvy the cargo space into three areas: one for necessities that always live there (jumper cables), one for in-and-out items (groceries or sports gear), and one for a cooler, so you can chill food and drinks on the go. TO BUY: Arctic Zone Trunk Organizer and Insulated Cooler Set, $43; amazon.com.

TOS S THE TR A SH Place a tiny receptacle in the cup holder to catch wrappers or receipts. Clean it out ever y time you stop for gas.

CHERYL ARZEWSKI AND JORDAN MARKS, CO-OWNERS OF IT’S ORGANIZED NONNAHS DRISKILL, FOUNDER OF GET ORGANIZED ALREADY JAMIE HORD, FOUNDER OF HORDERLY PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZING KENDALL WILSON, FOUNDER OF PUT TOGETHER PLACE

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Photographs by Brian Henn

P R O P ST Y L I N G BY M A I T R A N

I N YO U R T RU N K

Make Birthday Wishes Come True E XC LU S I V E LY AT 1 8 0 0 F LO W E R S.C O M / R E A L S I M P L E

20% OFF WITH CODE RSJ20 ENDS 4/30/20 While supplies last.

Sentimental

by Real Simple¨

THE REALIST

The 50 Best Beauty Products O U T O F T H O U S A N D S O F I T E M S T E ST E D, T H E S E B R A N D - N E W F I N D S A N D T R I E D -A N D -T RU E C L A S S I C S A R E W H AT O U R E D I T O R E X P E RT S T U R N T O F O R T H E I R O W N M A K E U P, H A I R , A N D S K I N . By Lisa D eSantis

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Photographs by Anna Williams

T R AV E L

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

Ingenious, portable formulas mean you can travel light without sacrificing a single step of your beauty routine.

WRINKLE ER ASER

S M O O T H M OV E S

COME CLE AN

Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Capsules Bring one of these single-dose tabs for each night you’re away. You’ll reap the anti-aging benefits of retinol without irritation. TO BUY: $48 for 30; elizabetharden.com.

Nexxus Frizz Defy Anti-Frizz Sheets These oil-infused wipes are humidity’s kryptonite. Swipe one over strands and watch that frizz halo disappear. TO BUY: $8 for 8; at drugstores.

Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes These wipes have been getting the job done since 2004. They also come individually wrapped for on-the-road nights. TO BUY: $5 for 25; target.com.

E AU S O F R E S H

Secret Freshies Invisible Solid Antiperspirant This baby is cute and discreet—small enough to stash in your gym bag, purse, and even desk drawer (for those stressy meetings). TO BUY: $6; at drugstores.

R AISE THE BAR

Love Beauty and Planet Shampoo and Conditioner Bars No bottle equals less waste. Plus, you don’t have to haul these out for the airport X-ray. Win-win! TO BUY: $5 each; at drugstores.

C A R RY- O N C L E A N S E R

Simple Skincare Micellar Cleansing Water Pouch Micellar water doesn’t require rinsing, making this the perfect goanywhere formula (in a TSA-friendly package!). TO BUY: $3; at drugstores.

P I C K YO U R P E R F U M E H A I R R E PA I R

S H AV E S M A RT

Venus Mini This little razor punches way above its weight: It fits in your palm but boasts full-size blades. TO BUY: $9; at drugstores.

Pantene Rescue Shots Swap conditioner for this miracle treatment. In just 60 seconds, it undoes all kinds of vacationinduced damage, like dryness, brittleness, and dullness. TO BUY: $5 for 3; at drugstores.

SUN-SAFE

Skinbetter Science Sheer SPF 56 Sunscreen Stick When sunscreen is this handy and this strongbut-sheer (zinc never felt so chic), you’ll look forward to reapplying. TO BUY: $45; skinbetter.com.

Pinrose Petal Sampling Kit With 14 scents to choose from, you can layer and play. Just swipe a “petal” wherever you’d usually spritz. TO BUY: $24 for 28; pinrose.com.

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

THE REALIST

M U LT I TA S K E R S You’re expected to juggle a million things at once, so of course you want your beauty products to do the same. These workhorses will shave minutes off your routine.

FA C E C R AYO N

Nudestix Nudies Bloom All Over Dewy Color Formulated for eyes, cheeks, and lips, this stick is the key to a five-minute face. Swipe, then buff with the brush. TO BUY: $32; nudestix.com.

ONE-CLICK WONDER

SKIN SOFTENER

Clarins 4 Colour All in One Pen Stop rummaging through a sea of pencils only to extract the wrong one. Simply click which of the three eyeliner shades you want and finish with the red lip hue. TO BUY: $32; neimanmarcus.com.

Mary Kay Naturally Moisturizing Stick This soothing balm can be used from knuckles to knees or on any dry spots that need some TLC. TO BUY: $28; marykay.com.

DA M A G E D E F E N D E R

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Heat Styling Spray This genius mist can be spritzed on damp hair prestyling, as well as on dry hair for touch-ups. Bonus: Its mane-taming powers last 48 hours. TO BUY: $28; livingproof.com.

N E X T- G E N T O N E R

SUDS UP

Rituals Foaming Shower Gel The dreamy spalike scents take us from stressed to Zen in an instant, while the mousse texture doubles as a shaving cream. TO BUY: $9.50; rituals.com.

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It Cosmetics Miracle Water 3-in-1 Tonic There’s not much this product doesn’t offer your skin. It cleanses, tones, and enhances radiance. The one thing it can’t do: protect itself when your friends try to steal it. TO BUY: $38; itcosmetics.com.

H E A D -T O -T O E H Y D R AT O R P OUT PERFECTER

Benefit They’re Real Double the Lip A lipliner-lipstick hybrid— so brilliant, so overdue. The pointed tip is a bit darker than the rest of the bullet to define your shape without harsh lines. TO BUY: $20; macys.com.

Caudalie Body and Hair Nourishing Oil Grapeseed oil quenches scaly skin but isn’t greasy to the touch. You can also massage it into dry hair to promote silkier strands overnight. TO BUY: $32; us.caudalie.com.

I N N OVAT I O N We love a game-changing ingredient, a clever packaging twist, and a deceptively simple, “Why did no one think of this before?” mindblower. Drumroll for our favorite recent upgrades and launches…

PA P E R T R A I L

MASK MAGIC

Flesh Flipbook Each sheet is coated with bronzer, blush, or highlighter. Run one over cheeks and—voilà!—get a healthy glow sans brush. TO BUY: $22 for 100; fleshbeauty.com.

P RO DUCT I M AG ES A N D S M E A RS : B R I A N H E N N

Olay Clay Stick Mask The draw-it-on stick takes away the mess of a mask, and there’s a variety of formulas (pore-detox charcoal, glow-boosting pink mineral) to choose from. TO BUY: $10; at drugstores.

PA I N T A N D S N I F F

Amkiri Visual Fragrance If you’ve had enough of fragrances that dissipate too quickly, try a stencil of scented ink you can see—and smell—until you shower. TO BUY: $50; amkiri.com.

SPEED R ACER

BLEMISH BUSTER

Glossier Zit Stick Like an eraser (or magic wand?) for pimples, this chic tube is packed with benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid to nix germs and inflammation. TO BUY: $14; glossier.com.

Garnier Fructis Sleek Shot In-Shower Styler A few drops of this liquid mixed into your shampoo can cut styling time in half and leave strands silky and shiny. TO BUY: $7; at drugstores.

BRIGHTEN UP

L ASH OFF

Clinique Fresh Pressed Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10% Liquid vitamin C is strong but unstable (it goes bad easily). This powder formula stays fresh and powerful down to the last particles. TO BUY: $76.50 for 34 ml; clinique.com.

Maybelline Snapscara If you hate removing stubborn mascara, you’re going to love this wax-free formula. It makes lashes big and bold but washes away with just water and a cloth. TO BUY: $6; at drugstores.

PIT STOP

Dove Even Tone Vitamin B3 Antiperspirant Underarm discoloration is a common problem. This niacinamide formula fights hyperpigmentation as it reduces odor. TO BUY: $6; target.com.

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

THE REALIST

B L O W O U T B RU S H

Revlon Salon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer Get salon results at home with this tool. Hot air dries hair as the oval brush pulls and smooths. TO BUY: $60; amazon.com.

M O I S T U R E S U RG E

Aquaphor Ointment Body Spray Scooping ointment out of a tub is sloppy—and so passé, thanks to this sheer mist that locks in hydration. TO BUY: $10; at drugstores.

P RO B L E M-

B RO W R A I S E R

L’Oréal Paris Brow Stylist Micro Ink Brow Pen Modeled after semipermanent microblading treatments, the threepronged tip makes hairlike strokes to fill in sparse arches. TO BUY: $11; ulta.com.

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S O LV E R S G RO W N - U P HIGHLIGHTER

Chanel Baume Essentiel in Transparent For those who want to glow without glitter or camera filters, this sheer balm blurs fine lines, leaves a dewy finish, and catches the light. TO BUY: $45; chanel.com.

We’ve all struggled with a beauty challenge, inconvenience, or hassle. But when these products are by your side, there’s nothing you can’t handle.

DA N D RU F F F I G H T E R GREASE ABSORBER

Fenty Beauty Invisimatte Blotting Paper Nothing ruins a selfie like shiny skin. Dab your face with one of these oilabsorbing sheets and you’ll be Instagram-ready. TO BUY: $16; fentybeauty.com.

GLOW GET TER

Head & Shoulders Scalp Detoxifying Pre-Wash Mask This eucalyptus-andmint combo refreshes your scalp as it eradicates buildup. TO BUY: $2; at drugstores.

Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Sunshine Drops Mix a few of these coppery drops into your everyday SPF for a sunkissed (but sunless) glow and a dose of antioxidants. TO BUY: $36; sephora.com.

G R AY C A M O U F L A G E R

CURL QUENCHER

Briogeo Farewell Frizz Rosarco Milk Leave-In Conditioning Spray Curly girls, rejoice! This blend of lightweight oils boosts bounce and defeats frizz. TO BUY: $20; briogeohair.com.

Rita Hazan Root Concealer Touch Up Stick If you can wield a crayon, you can cover your roots—because running to the salon whenever a gray rears its wiry head isn’t always an option. TO BUY: $25; ritahazan.com.

BY E - BY E , B R E A KO U T S SENSITIVE S K I N S P R AY

La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring The cooling mist is a good midday pick-me-up (especially in skin-parching office microclimates), plus it soothes and hydrates. TO BUY: $13; laroche-posay.us.

S W E AT S T O P P E R

Megababe Rosy Pits Deodorant Wipes When there’s no time to shower after spin class, these generously sized, biodegradable wipes are the next best thing. TO BUY: $14; megababe beauty.com.

Renée Rouleau Rapid Response Detox Masque Celeb facialist Renée Rouleau is considered the skin whisperer. This pot of gold clarifies and calms touchy skin. TO BUY: $65.50; reneerouleau.com.

EYE ENHANCER

ONE-STEP NAIL COLOR

Color Street Nail Strips They feel like a magic mani: These stick-on polish strips are easy to apply (no risk of smudging!) and last for up to 10 days. TO BUY: From $11 for 16; colorstreet.com.

OleHenriksen Banana Bright Eye Crème The secret to faking eight hours of sleep lurks in this jar. Its yellow hue counteracts blue-tinged undereye darkness. TO BUY: $39; olehenriksen.com.

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

THE REALIST

STA P L E S If we could bring only one thing to a desert island, it would be a cosmetics bag...stocked with all these trusty go-tos.

P E A R LY W H I T E N E R L I P S AV E R

HAIR FO OD

Smith’s Rosebud Salve Whether you apply every few minutes or just in dire circumstances, you’ll love keeping this tin in your purse. TO BUY: $7; sephora.com.

Aveeno Blackberry Quinoa Protein Blend Shampoo and Conditioner From farm to hair, these nourishing ingredients strengthen and preserve color. TO BUY: $7 each; walmart.com.

SUN SHIELD

EltaMD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 Sing it with us (and all the derms): Wear sunscreen every single day. It feels like a treat—not a chore—with this sheer mineral formula. TO BUY: $35; dermstore.com.

A RC H S U P P O RT

Saie Brow Butter It’s easy to be skeptical of brow gels—until you swipe this mini spoolie and tame hairs without getting crunchy. TO BUY: $18; saiehello.com.

HIT REFRESH

Herbal Essences Cucumber and Green Tea Dry Shampoo Antioxidants, aloe, and sea kelp team up to stave off grease for days. TO BUY: $6; target.com.

Marvis Toothpaste Fancy dental care is totally worth it, and not just because the tube looks nice by the sink. This brand has yummy flavors and delivers a deep-clean feeling. TO BUY: $10.50 for 75 ml; bigelowchemists.com.

F U L L- O N F LU T T E R FA C E RO L L E R

C OV E R- U P

Clé de Peau Beauté Concealer It’s a splurge, for sure. But the way that wand glides over skin to hide imperfections makes it worth every penny. TO BUY: $73; cledepeau beaute.com.

Sephora Collection Rose Quartz Facial Massager Believe the hype: This little tool really does depuff and feel amazing. TO BUY: $20; sephora.com.

CLEAN SWEEP

Alleyoop Tip Off They might look like regular cotton swabs, but they’re filled with makeup-erasing liquid to help fix smudges. TO BUY: $8; meet alleyoop.com.

L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara One tube is sold every five seconds, and with good reason: A few strokes transform straight, sparse lashes into fluttery fringe. TO BUY: $11; ulta.com.

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

GREAT SKIN STARTS WITH

SUNSCREEN. EltaMD ® mineral-based formulas for dry, oily, normal and acne-prone skin

Br o ad -spect r um s u n pr o tect io n fo r yo ur skin t ype a nd l if esty l e. All EltaMD ® sunscreens are innovatively for mulated with sheer zinc oxide to help prevent early skin aging and skin cancer caused by the sun.1 Ask your der matologist or visit eltamd.com/buy.

#1 D E R M A T O L O G I S T - R E C O M M E N D E D P R O F E S S I O N A L S U N S C R E E N B R A N D .2 1

If used as directed with other sun protection measures.

U.S. Sunscreen-dispensing dermatologists study, Decision Analyst 2018

THE REALIST

Stylewise

Spring Mix F I N A L LY, I T ’ S W A R M I N G U P ! T H E S E V E R S AT I L E WA R D RO B E A L L- STA R S W I L L B R I G H T E N YO U R LO O K A L L S E A S O N.

S O F T ST Y L I N G BY M A I T R A N

By Flavia Nunez

Photographs by Brian Henn

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

THE REALIST

These 10 Items Make... 1 FLOR AL DRESS

Morena Dress, $460; shoshanna.com.

2 R AGL AN SLEEVE BLOUSE

Shirred Neck Blouse, $79.50; anntaylor.com. 3 BUCKET BAG 2 5

Gingham Weave Drawstring Bag, $149; talbots.com. 4 S AT I N H E E L S

Mary Jane Heels, $178; jcrew.com. 6 5 DENIM PENCIL S K I RT

Denim Button Front Skirt, $98; banana republic.com. 3

6 C A M O PA N T S

Hi-Re Camo Joggers, $60; ae.com. 7 SLEEVELESS S W E AT E R

Mock Neck Tank, $45; gap.com.

8 B E R M U DA S H O RT S

Striped Short with Gold Lurex Stitching, $99; dkny.com.

9 BL A ZER VEST

Daylin Double-Breasted Vest, $68; lulus.com. 10 8

1 0 P L AT F O R M SNEAKERS

Cotropew Sneakers, $89; superga-usa.com.

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...These 6 Great Outfits* Yes, you can wear shorts to work. Just pair them with a tailored vest and heels.

The bodyskimming pencil cut adds a little formality to a jean skirt.

A swirly tie-dye camo print freshens up a pair of comfy joggers.

* And that’s ju st a star t—ke e p p la yi ng !

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

American Bison // Custer State Park

Like a plot twist, South Dakota’s deﬁned by surprises. We could ﬁll books with the gems you’ll discover here — like Custer State Park, Jewel Cave National Monument, and Lewis & Clark Lake — but that part of the narrative is written by you. Up for an unexpected adventure? Map your quest at TravelSouthDakota.com

TravelSouthDakota.com // 1-800-732-5682

MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS IN A MODERN WORLD

5 Ways to Boost Your Luck P U T T H E O D D S I N YO U R FA V O R B Y C R E A T I N G Y O U R

A F R I C A S T U D I O/A D O B E S T O C K

O W N S E R E N D I P I T Y. By Hannah Chenoweth

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

R E L AT I N G

Surround yourself with optimistic, mentally tough people.

Prepare, prepare, prepare. I tell my clients to pretend luck doesn’t exist. Lucky people are just people who don’t stop until they succeed. Overemphasizing external factors outside your control is the quickest way to lose motivation. The most successful people I know are mentally tough enough to maintain optimism over the long term, despite the setbacks that occur (and they will—trust me!). They also tend to be friends with each other, so one of the best hacks for boosting your luck is to spend time with positive, resilient people. KARLA STARR IS A PROFESSIONAL COACH BASED IN NEW YORK CITY AND THE AUTHOR OF CAN YOU LEARN TO BE LUCKY?

Recognize that you are lucky already. Luck is the lens through which you see the world. The simple act of noticing the blessings in your life can make you feel like the luckiest person alive. Take the Bewitched episode where Darrin receives a “lucky” charm. There’s actually no spell on the charm, but because Darrin believes he’s lucky, he feels more confident and notices one good thing happening after another. Use Darrin’s sitcom situation to inform your own reality: If you wake up and tell yourself you’re going to have an amazing day, you’ll likely ride a wave of serendipity too. KEN CARTER, PHD, IS A CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST, AUTHOR, AND PROFESSOR AT EMORY UNIVERSITY.

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Luck has this otherworldly, mythical air, but it boils down to preparation. When an opportunity comes along and you’re ready to receive it, that’s when luck happens. In Irish folklore, a young warrior’s first task was to catch a hare, and then he’d walk into battle wearing the rabbit’s foot around his neck. It wasn’t a magical lucky charm; it was a reminder that he could get home safely because of his hard work and preparation. MARK O’GÉARÁIN IS THE EXPERIENCE MANAGER AT THE NATIONAL LEPRECHAUN MUSEUM IN DUBLIN, IRELAND.

Refocus your attention. Where your attention goes, energy flows. So if you ask yourself, “Why do I have such crappy luck?,” rest assured that your subconscious will deliver all sorts of reasons. When you complain about the challenges life throws at you, all that energy is wasted. Instead, pose a more beneficial question, such as “What steps can I take to improve this situation?” You’ll increase your luck by no longer engaging in past behaviors or unhealthy patterns and by focusing on what is working. When you allow less-than-ideal situations to get under your skin, you push yourself farther from your own rainbow. SHAMA DHANANI IS A HYPNOTHERAPIST AND MEDITATION TEACHER BASED IN NEW YORK CITY.

Have faith in the cyclical nature of life. There are times when we feel lucky and everything falls into place. When luck is nowhere to be found, we can feel stuck in the mud. Most people think luck is random, but there is energy in our environment that flows in predictable cycles, influencing the situations we draw into our lives. Through classical feng shui, we gain awareness of when and how these cycles affect us and use elemental strategies to improve our “luck.” You can take advantage of unfavorable cycles to learn, grow, deepen your faith, and strengthen who you are. That way, when good cycles roll around, you’ll be in a better position to bring opportunities to a higher level of fruition. CYNTHIA LEE CHAN IS A CLASSICAL FENG SHUI INSTRUCTOR AND CONSULTANT BASED IN BOULDER, COLORADO.

P R O P ST Y L I N G BY C L A I R E S P O L L E N

R E L AT I N G

Good Read

Objects of a Desired Life A F T E R T H R E E Y E A R S O F L O O K I N G A T, B U T R A R E LY T O U C H I N G , A F L AT WA R E S E T S H E H A D T O H AV E , L AU R A L I P P M A N C O N S I D E R S T H E C O N T R A D I C T I O N S A N D M E A N I N G I N T H E I T E M S W E C O V E T.

Photograph by Victor Protasio

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

R E L AT I N G

I H AV E T O H AV E T H I S .

It was 2016, not even two weeks after what I think everyone can agree was a rather dramatic election. I was in a department store in Denmark, staring covetously at a set of Georg Jensen flatware. Hygge was just starting to have its moment, and I was in Illums Bolighus in Copenhagen, hygge central. This flatware would change my life, make me the person I had not yet managed to become—put together, polished, but not to a sheen. I have to have this. How many times has that sentence ricocheted around my brain, a magical pinball promising that a material possession would change my life, materially? That I would be a better, smarter, more admirable person if I could just have this one thing. When I was 15, the transformative object was a maroon cardigan. When I was in my 20s, it was vintage Fiestaware collected at Texas flea markets. The year I turned 31, the object of desire was a house, a modest blue duplex in North Baltimore. My circumstances changed, improved, but there was always another talisman that held out the promise of a better version of myself. Now it was flatware. Definitely, flatware was going to do it. about my desires. Rather than buying the flatware in Copenhagen, which would have weighed down my already loaded luggage and necessitated paying duty tax, I returned to the U.S. and commenced sleuthing. I found the set I wanted, six five-piece settings of “Manhattan,” on multiple websites. I then tracked them, waiting for a price drop. On Cyber Monday, the official Georg Jensen website had a 20 percent off sale, and I clicked Buy. But after more than three years, I still hardly ever use them. I default to the random Dansk pieces the Georg Jensen set was supposed to replace. Every day, I open my silverware drawer, glance at the beautiful Georg Jensen forks, knives, and spoons nestled in the cutlery tray, and grab the Dansk rattling around on the side. Every day, I wonder at my reluctance to use these things I had to have. I C A N B E S T R AT E G I C

Every day, I glance at the Georg Jensen flatware and grab the Dansk. Every day, I wonder at my reluctance to use these things I had to have.

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I confessed my problem to a friend, a woman who lives life with more gusto than anyone I know. “Laura,” she said with cheerful sternness, “I am ordering you to go home and use that flatware.” Sometimes I do. But rarely. I seldom entertain—that’s another misconception I have about myself, that one day I will transform into a person who entertains, fabulously and effortlessly. I’ve had guests in my house once in the past six months. For a postmatch potluck with my tennis partner’s family, I put the good forks out. I counted the pieces covertly as they went into the dishwasher, and again when I returned them to the cutlery drawer. Good stuff has a way of disappearing in my house. My family has never met a set of Laguiole steak knives it hasn’t immediately made incomplete. Me, I specialize in breakage. I can’t even have the “cheap” Riedel glasses. You know the old saying “If you have to ask, you can’t afford it”? My motto: If you can’t afford to break it, you shouldn’t own it. other beautiful, not inexpensive items in my home that I use all the time. In Italy, I’ve shopped at a small housewares store in Siena that sells Bertozzi linens. After three separate visits, I have napkins, tablecloths, and dish towels that see almost daily use. These linens become more beautiful over time. They survive the worst stains (my 9-year-old has been wiping her mouth on the napkins for almost five years now) and are easy to care for. Given my unfashionable aesthetic—best described as “Fiestaware meets outsider art, gets drunk, and searches for milk glass on Etsy”—the vivid oranges, blues, greens, and yellows are perfect for my table. My table itself suggests a certain bravery. Well, not the table so much as the chairs. The table is a sturdy piece of crap, “distressed” white-painted wood that has now known 17 years of actual distress. It is covered with water rings, scratches, and marks from various art projects. Luckily, a Bertozzi tablecloth covers this multitude of sins. The chairs are white leather, an indefensible purchase made in a flush moment a year ago. Yes, I, a woman who’s reluctant to use her too-good-for-the-likes-of-her flatware, dropped serious cash for white leather dining room chairs. I was paranoid about them for a month or two, then stopped worrying. They are shockingly resistant to stains. I wish I could say the same about the Georg Jensen flatware, which tends to develop spots. The material is “dishwashable,” as the website notes charmingly. I know stainless-steel flatware does better if you remove it promptly from the dishwasher, as a salesman once told me, but what kind of person lives a life in which they’re present when the dishwasher stops running? The beautiful matte handles are a little scratched too, though I like that effect. YET THERE ARE

They look as if they might have been passed down to me from a very hip aunt or uncle, someone who lived in Marin County circa 1975. Last year, my husband’s job required him to be away from home almost every weeknight for an eight-month stretch. I tried to cook for myself and my daughter four out of the five nights. My daughter requested we have themed meals: Pasta Monday, Tenderloin Tuesday, Breakfast-for-Dinner Wednesday, Around-the-World Thursday, Freaky Friday. One Monday, I made pesto with pistachios and served it with fusilli and grape tomatoes, took a deep breath, and set the table with the good flatware. The next day, a fork was missing. As of this writing, it is still missing. Maybe I’ll find it among the long-gone Laguiole steak knives. (Three disappeared, one broke.) Or perhaps I will never find it, which means that if I set the table for more than five people, one of the Dansk forks will be forced into service. My tables have always been mismatched affairs, jumbles of Fiestaware, Bakelite napkin rings, Russel Wright Melmac, and the aforementioned linens. This disorder complements my serving style, which is pretty slapdash. with the Georg Jensen flatware is that it’s not me. It’s someone I aspired to be in a moment of confusion, when I found the world unfathomable and the future terrifying. (I still find the world unfathomable and the future terrifying. I’ve just accepted that this is the status quo.) The flatware is sleek, cool, and minimalist, whereas I am muscular, hot, and maximalist. My transformative objects were acquired during times of change. That maroon sweater would be my ticket to popularity in a new school. (Spoiler: It didn’t work.) The Fiestaware was my way of telling Waco, Texas, that this newly arrived Yankee was a free spirit. Turns out Texas didn’t care, but the bright, mismatched dishes reflected my personality, which is why I still use them daily almost 40 years later in my house in Baltimore. Recently, I found myself prowling Etsy for vintage quilts, but before hitting Buy, I stopped, pressed firmly on my slippery little id, and asked what I was really chasing. Yes, the seasons had changed, and I could use some new bedding, but I was pursuing a memory, a dream of a family heirloom that was given to my sister when we were young. Suddenly, the need for a quilt seemed much less urgent. Instead of buying something, I went to the basement and began making piles of objects to give away, noting as I worked how many identities I’ve tried on in my lifetime—and wondering how many more there are to come.

WHEN YOU HAVE SENSITIVE SKIN YOUR CLOTHES CAN TURN ON YOU

AU T H O R P H OTO G R A P H C O U RT ESY O F L ES L I E U N RU H

M AY B E T H E P R O B L E M

ABOUT THE AU T H O R Crime writer Laura Lippman is the author of the Tess Monaghan series, a short-story collection, and 11 novels, including her most recent, Lady in the Lake. She lives in Baltimore.

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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.

J.L. A SKS...

For now, offer your kids strategies for handling taboo temptations, invite your friends’ children to your house, or establish a pattern of adultsonly socializing. If folks inquire after your kids, you can always tell the truth: “There’s still an innocent Curious George phase going on at our house. We’re sheltering them as long as we can.” As your children grow up, you can talk about these differences between you and your friends, modeling what it looks like to love people whose values you don’t always share and clarifying your own family’s values in the process. Expect some awkward years, but know that these long-haul friendships can usually handle a lapse or two.

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L . D. A S K S . . .

My sister-in-law visits occasionally. As soon as she sees my couch or armchair, she takes off her shoes and curls up on the seat. I find it disgusting. I’m used to sitting properly— I try to have good manners, and I teach my child to do the same. My husband says I should accept people as they are. Am I overreacting? ABOUT C AT H E R I N E The author of How to Be a Person: 65 Hugely Useful, Super-Important Skills to Learn Before You’re Grown Up (out in May), 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, largely grown children in Amherst, Massachusetts.

Think of manners as a seesaw: At some point your insistence on properness can, ironically, tip over into impoliteness. The spirit of good hosting is comfort. You want your guests to feel at ease in your home. Happily, your sister-inlaw does. (Plus, she’s considerate enough to keep her shoes off your couch.) If you like, tell your kid privately, “Your aunt puts her feet on other people’s furniture, but I wouldn’t want you to do that.” Or consider the bigger picture— that you’d like your child to be comfortable with and accepting of others—and don’t. After your shoeless guest leaves, just spritz your couch with Febreze and let it go.

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

My family is moving to an area we lived in before we had children. We have many wonderful friends there who have also started families. Unfortunately, we don’t share the same ideals when it comes to parenting. Some of our friends are more relaxed about violent TV programs, graphic video games, and the like. We love our friends dearly but don’t want to expose our kids to these things, especially since we consider some of their children to be bad influences as a result. How do we politely navigate the tricky situation of saying, “We want to see you, but we don’t want our kids to be around yours”?

J.B. A SKS...

T. K . A S K S . . .

Is there a polite way to respond to businesses that send letters to my husband thanking him for his military service? My husband never served in the military—I did. I find the letters sexist and insulting. Write a note to the offending businesses. “We appreciate your letter of appreciation, but it was I, not my husband, who served our country,” you can say. “Your letter presumed otherwise. This may have been a simple error, but if it’s a sexist default practice, please change it. There are, as you must be aware, hundreds of thousands of women who serve.” You’ll be performing a different kind of service for military women everywhere.

My friend is bad about responding to my texts and emails. I used to write it off, knowing she works odd hours and sometimes has poor cell reception. But the last few times I hung out with her, she barely put her phone down, replying to other friends or checking social media and news. It makes me wonder why I try so hard. How do I tell her this without seeming petty? What parts of this friendship do you value? Are they significant enough to make pursuing the relationship worth it, even given this person’s extreme inattentiveness? If not, then you might want to adjust your expectations and stop seeking her out so actively. But if she’s still an important friend, then try alerting her to her behavior. My 20-year-old son and his friends slap the phones out of each other’s hands when they’re together; my 16-year-old daughter likes to lean in and say, excitedly, “Ooh! Who are we texting?” On the off chance neither of these methods suits you, you could plan an activity, such as hiking, that precludes scrolling. Or you could say, “I’ve really been craving this time with you. Let’s put our phones away for now.”

A.L. A SKS...

What is the etiquette after sleeping in someone’s guest bed? My rule is to leave it as nice as I found it, which means making the bed. However, assuming (and hoping!) everyone washes bedding after each guest, I often wonder if I should pile the sheets nicely on the bed. Would that be helpful or presumptuous? I think it’s best to simply ask. Not “What should I do with the bed?,” because most hosts will respond, “Oh, nothing—just leave it,” but the more direct “My bed: strip it or make it?” You’d think stripping it would always be helpful, but we leave the gently used sheets until just before the next guests arrive because (a) our cats like to drool and shed all over the bed and (b) piles of teenagers end up hanging out on it or sleeping over, and I love them but— don’t judge me—am too lazy to wash the bedding for them. Less slovenly housekeepers than I will likely pick the sheets-off option.

H AV E A N E T I Q U E T T E QUESTION? Hover your phone’s camera here to submit your question for Catherine, or email her at modernmanners@realsimple.com.

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Fa m i l y

Petiquette E N SU R E H A R M O N Y B E T W E E N YO U R P E T A N D T H E P E O P L E I N Y O U R L I F E W I T H T H I S E X P E RT A D V I C E .

My mother-in-law is allergic to cats, and I have two. I want her to be comfortable when she visits, but I don’t want to board my cats. Is there a compromise? Explain to your mother-inlaw that her comfort is a priority but you’d prefer your cats stay home during her visit. Dust and vacuum before she arrives and consider setting up an air purifier. Also, remind her to take any allergy meds beforehand. Keep your cats in a separate room, stocked with food, water, litter boxes, toys, and pet beds, says Marilyn Krieger, a certified cat behavior consultant and the author of Naughty No More! Get your cats used to their separate space before your mother-in-law visits.

Do I need to ask permission before I take a photo of a stranger’s pet?

Welp, this is awkward: How do I stop my dog from humping people?

It’s the respectful thing to do. And if you’re snapping a close-up, you want the owner on board to keep the pet happy. “The line I use most is ‘Excuse me, may I take a quick photo of your dog?’ ” says Elias Weiss Friedman, the photographer behind The Dogist, a popular website and Instagram feed. “If you know the breed, use that to get respect points from the owner right off the bat. Making eye contact and allowing them the space to say no and walk away are important too.”

First of all, your dog should be fixed, which reduces the risk of disease and infection. Even if he is neutered, he might hump because he’s excited, stressed, or seeking attention. Calmly pull your pup off the person’s leg, put her in a sit, and give her a treat. (Yes, girl dogs hump!) “Too many people just say ‘No!’ and yank the dog off,” says Mary Gardner, DVM, a veterinarian in Boynton Beach, Florida. “But you have to tell the dog what you do want.” Gardner suggests putting the PetSafe Gentle Leader Headcollar ($20; petsafe.net) on your dog before guests arrive. Use it to redirect her head and body.

64 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

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I l l u s t r a t i o n s b y R u b y Ta y l o r

trip was months away, but the worried emails from my folks were already rolling in. They had many, many questions about the condo I’d rented on Sanibel Island, Florida, for our midwinter break. Is there a microwave for popcorn? You didn’t get a convertible car, did you? You know your father doesn’t like direct sun. Does it get CNN? Is there a handheld vac? Maybe we should bring one. When our daughter, Sylvie, was born 10 years ago, my husband, Tom, and I decided we’d take bond-building, multigenerational yearly trips. We live an hour from my parents, and while we see them often, it’s only for short bursts. Now that we’ve been doing these vacations for nearly a decade, I know I can rely on a few constants. One is that our group email chain will stretch to the size of the Magna Carta. That’s because it is my parents’ nightmare not to be prepared. “Think we’re set,” Tom wrote back about the handheld vac. Clearly the idea of toast crumbs overtaking the place was too much for my mother. “Bringing it anyway, just in case!” she responded. My father, meanwhile, told us he’d be packing large quantities of Chex Mix. Yes, I know Chex Mix is sold in Florida, but Dad makes his own “famous” custom blend, which contains both cheese-filled crackers

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and cheese-filled pretzels as well as honey-roasted cashews. Ever since he retired from his job as a JCPenney manager, each night at 5 (“quittin’ time!”), Dad has a bowl of Chex Mix, washed down by a large tumbler of scotch, as he watches CNN at full volume. Seeing no reason to deviate from his routine just because he’s on vacation, he always totes along a bag of Chex Mix the size of a throw pillow. It’s also never too early for him to get tense about when we should meet at the airport. For Dad, arriving four hours ahead of a domestic flight is cutting it close. “There’s the traffic on Route 80, for starters,” Dad says (he calls me when I don’t respond within five minutes to his latest email). “Then we have to print out our boarding passes, and Earl of Sandwich is on the other side of the terminal.” When it’s just Tom and me, this is the exact opposite of how we travel. We recoil from an agenda, preferring to meander through a city and allow the day to spontaneously unfold. Maybe we’ll stop at a café or a bookstore, or take the tram to the end of the line—as we did once in Lisbon— just to see where we end up. The day is a luxurious blank page waiting to be filled. Luxurious blank pages fill kids and seniors with anxiety. The first morning on Sanibel, as I came downstairs for breakfast at 7:30, I was greeted by the sight of my parents and Sylvie dressed and ready for the day. “What’s the plan?” my mother asked, putting on a swipe of pink lipstick. I fumbled for a mug. “ ‘What’s the plan?’ Mom, remember we talked about this? The plan is no plan.” Sylvie and Mom exchanged glances. “I don’t understand,” my mother persisted. “How can you have no plan?”

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F R E S H P L A C E S FO R FA M I L I E S TO S TAY

“We go to the beach, get something to eat. You know, hang out.” She hesitated. “Yes, but the best time to hit She Sells Sea Shells is late morning because everyone will be at the beach. And we’d like to eat lunch early to beat the crowds.” Sylvie nodded and reached for her hand. Over the years, my parents have instilled in her an aversion to mealtime hordes, as well as a love of eating early. “And we can’t go to the beach between 1 and 3, because the sun is too bright, so we were thinking we’d hit the library, and…” She trailed off. We all stared at one another for a long minute. “OK, here’s the schedule,” I said finally, as everyone visibly relaxed. There was a time when my only job on vacation was reapplying sunscreen every two hours. Now I’m the UN secretary-general. I sketched out the day and, because I knew they liked to talk about dinner at breakfast, proposed a restaurant option. After some searching, I found a place that fulfilled everyone’s requirements: chicken nuggets for Sylvie, beef dishes for Dad (he doesn’t like seafood, which was a bit tricky on an island known for its catches of the day), and no TV sets for Tom (he also won’t set foot in a restaurant with a word like “grille” or “factory” in the name, or a fussy phrase like “a food lab”). Our potential plans for the day brought out another round of family feedback. My mother “doesn’t care for” amusement parks. My father can’t tolerate shopping. Tom and I love wildlife and shun establishments with loud music or fluorescent lighting.

If your extended family has already done the beach house or cruise, consider one of these alternatives. They’re great for everyone, from grandpas to teenagers to babies to, most importantly, you.

Book a boat. Chart your own course with a houseboat. Le Boat has options in Europe and Canada; you could, say, port-hop between Ottawa and Kingston along Ontario’s Rideau Canal on a 2to 12-passenger vessel (from $1,100 per week; leboat.com). Or skipper a six-person boat on Lake Powell (from about $2,000 per week; lakepowell .com), enjoying beach days and visits to southern Utah’s sandstone canyons.

Hop into a camper. Get the bonding benefits of camping without the confidence-sapping hassle of pitching tents. The booking site Outdoorsy lets you rent RVs and camper vans directly from owners. It features more than 30,000 listings worldwide—from a vintage Volkswagen bus to a tow-along Airstream to a touring-rock-band-style Fleetwood (from $122 per day; outdoorsy.com).

Go for a tricked-out apartment. You could try an all-suite hotel or an extended-stay apartment, like AKA (stayaka.com). Homes & Villas by Marriott International offers managed properties with hotel-style amenities. Or consider the Bode hotels, in Nashville and Chattanooga, Tennessee (with more locations on the way). They combine the best parts of residential stays—living rooms, kitchens, multiple bedrooms— with the social perks of hotels (PingPong, fire pits, lobby bar). —Elaine Glusac

T R I P I D E A S , R A N K E D BY DESIRED TO GETHERNESS LOT S O F TO G E T H E R N E S S

Group Tour You’re on the bus, hitting the walking tour, and eating meals with one another almost all day, every day. And you won’t simply be immersed in your own family on that 56-seater— you’ll witness every other family’s dynamic too.

Apartment Rental When you squeeze everybody into a two-bedroom with a pullout couch (and a decorative bench for your toddler nephew to sleep on), prepare to feel very cozy…and wonder whether you should have sprung the extra $50 for a larger space.

River Cruise These nimble boats My daughter likes action (zip lining). My parents enjoy flowers and candle dipping by living historians. At least we all agree on gift shops and ice cream. It was challenging to land on a mix that pleased everyone, but not impossible. My favorite day on Sanibel began with a trip to a botanic garden (the folks smelled the flowers, Sylvie ran around), followed by burgers and malted milkshakes for lunch, capped by a sunset dolphin cruise and stargazing on the beach. Nothing we did was particularly extravagant, but we all returned to the condo content. Over the years, I’ve learned that the trick is to keep things moving along quickly while employing NAFTA-level negotiating skills: “Sylvie, if you don’t fidget during the musket-stuffing demonstration, we’ll buy some of those scratch-off lottery tickets you and Gran like.” “Tom, I know mini golf is your nightmare, but I’ll get the folks to take Sylvie to the beach all morning first, and you can read the paper in silence.”

Tom, with no emotional baggage to hoist, manages to find the humor in everyone’s travel quirks (just as I’m much more patient with his parents). He was a solitary latchkey child and loves the boisterousness of our group vacations. When I grumbled about having to call a restaurant so we could get a table facing the ocean—but still near the air-conditioning—he just laughed. “Well, what did you expect when you invited your 76-year-old parents along?” he said. “I think you’ll be much happier if you just abandon all hope that these vacations will be relaxing.” As the years have gone on and travel with my folks has gotten more challenging, it’s grown easier with Sylvie. This was not always the case. When she was a toddler, we all journeyed to Cape Cod. I had visions of

are minuscule compared with their floating-skyscraper ocean cousins. You’ll be bumping into the family at every turn of the Danube.

House or Villa Rental The secret to joyful multigenerational cohabiting, it turns out, is a house with nine bedrooms, 14 bathrooms, a pool, a soccer pitch, and expansive views of vineyards.

All-Inclusive Resort Everyone has their own room and on-site activity schedule, but you can still agree to meet at the pool. (You can also go to another pool—or another—when you want some peace.)

Ocean Cruise The world’s reportedly largest cruise ship is almost a quarter mile long and holds 6,000-plus passengers. So it’s a little like staying in the same county and happily chancing upon one another when the stars align. LOTS OF “D O OUR OWN THING” TIME

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an alfresco family dinner, my father helping little Sylvie eat her first clam as gulls wheeled overhead. Instead she spent the week unleashing epic tantrums, which mortified me and Tom but were met by smirking amusement from my mother and father. She had a meltdown when she couldn’t take home a wagonload of teddy bears because it was the display at a toy store. Once she became enraged because “Daddy is looking at me.” It was a long week. Now that she’s an even-keeled fifth grader, she is my parents’ mobile IT department. When my mom complained that the lighting was dark in a restaurant and she couldn’t read her menu, Sylvie showed her how to use the flashlight on her phone. When my father was frustrated that he couldn’t remember the directions to the hardware store, Sylvie fired up Google Maps. My parents are becoming more forgetful, and it upsets them. She has become a help to them, and even with their 67-year age difference, they have a lot in common: The three of them share a deep love of Goldfish crackers, Poldark, and big-box stores. The family dynamic has changed with me too. I am learning to grow into my role as trip planner, organizer, and general leader. My parents have their idiosyncrasies, but they are game and enthusiastic and love experiencing new things. They have the patience to watch Sylvie make her umpteenth dive into the pool or exclaim over the 9,000th identical shell she finds on the beach. One of the festive rules we’ve established is that on vacation, my parents have ultimate authority over Sylvie. So if she wants a double scoop of ice cream encrusted with

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gummy bears, she must ask them and not me; invariably, they say yes. I love watching my parents and Sylvie delight in one another. One afternoon I caught Sylvie and my mother methodically squirting an entire can of whipped cream into each other’s mouths. “Gran’s crazy!” Sylvie will say admiringly. The ease they feel around one another has been strengthened by these trips. When Sylvie becomes a teenager, no doubt she’ll find every member of the family lame, but right now the three of them are in the sweet spot of travel. It can be hard to remember this sometimes, like when our family beach walk takes forever because my parents have to do a stop-and-chat with every person they meet (“I see a Steelers shirt. Are you from Pittsburgh?”) or when they propose we eat dinner at 4:30 p.m. But there’s something comforting about the predictability of the quirks and negotiations. Relaxing? No. Replenishing, yes. Just as our vacations always start with an all-hands-on-deck dialogue, they always end the same way: with us sharing photos a week later, the frustrating parts forgotten, as we’re thinking about the next trip. This year we’ve decided on Bermuda. The vacation is months away, but the emails have already started rolling in. “No car options on Bermuda,” my father wrote. “Researching transportation alternatives.” “Glad you’re on the case, Dad,” I wrote back. Check out our tips for planning vacations—big or small—in less time at realsimple.com/quicktrip.

W H AT T O L O O K F O R I N A R E N TA L Joanne Palmisano, interior designer and coauthor of Rock Your Rental, spruces up vacation rentals for maximum comfort and style. Here’s what she says your family should search for in a listing.

Stay close to attractions. Try to get a house walkable to the main draw—the beach, for example—so you don’t have to pile everyone into the car (or rent a second vehicle).

Find space to lounge. You’ll want a big family room where everyone can watch movies and play games, plus another area (inside or out) for people to recharge. If you can avoid it, these spaces shouldn’t double as sleeping areas. “There’s always someone reading or watching TV when someone else wants to go to bed,” Palmisano says.

Ensure some privacy. Family units will be most comfortable if they have a private bedroom or two for napping and turning in at night. On a multifamily trip, each parents-and-kids group should share a bathroom. Give the grandparents and older guests their own spaces, preferably on lower levels.

Seek out a one-size-fits-all dining area. No matter how you spend your days, you’ll probably come together for meals. Make sure everyone has a seat at the table—literally.

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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

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Photographs by Brian Henn

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BAL ANCE

If your open floor plan is noisy and distracting... INVEST IN GO OD HE ADPHONES.

most of your day at work, you want to be as happy and focused as possible— which can be seriously difficult in a loud bullpen or ice-cold office. Here’s how to make your space homey and healthy so you can be your best self on the job. W H E N YO U S P E N D

If you have back or neck pain after work... Adjust your chair height to keep your thighs parallel to the floor, and try to sit with your weight balanced, says Jonathan Puleio, an ergonomist in New York City. Holding the same seated position all day can lead to lower-back discomfort; if possible, unlock your chair’s backrest and loosen the tension so you can shift your posture frequently, he says. Center your computer monitor in front of you—the top line of text should be at or slightly below eye level. And use wireless headphones rather than corded ones to allow your neck to move freely. S I T FO R C O M FO RT.

Over-the-ear noise-canceling headphones are a comfortable option, and they’ve become the universal signal for “Please do not interrupt me,” says Jonathan Wasserstrum, founder of SquareFoot, a commercial real estate company in New York City. (Wasserstrum, who sits in the middle of a 60person space, swears by Sony H900N Hi-Res Noise Cancelling Headphones, $300; sony.com.) If you don’t like that soundproof feeling, try the smaller, in-ear Apple AirPods Pro ($250; apple.com), which let you control how much noise to block out, says Thomas Bradbury, technical director at GetSongkey, a database for musicians. USE DE SI G N TO M UFFLE THE S O U ND.

Add a small rug to your cube or hang felt art on your walls to absorb noise, says Nicole Gaynor of Room & Board Business Interiors. Privacy dividers that clamp to your desk, like the VaRoom Acoustic Desktop Privacy Divider (from $79; amazon.com), can dampen the din and shield you from visual distractions. Ask your manager if you can come in an hour earlier, before the bustle starts, or work from home one day a week. You could also try to build your schedule around noisy times: Have meetings away from your desk when your neighbors tend to be the most chatty, and aim to be in your seat during quieter periods, when everyone’s hunkering down. C H A N G E YO U R H O U R S .

To help boost energy and reduce pain, have an electric heating pad or water bottle on hand, says Kerry Boyle, an acupuncturist in Montpelier, Vermont. Fill the bottle with hot water from the coffee station throughout the day. WA R M YO U R B A C K .

Just one discreet move can help calm your nervous system and release muscle tension. Press your thumb, nail pointed down, to the space between your eyebrows and rotate it in small circles. T RY A C U P R E S S U R E .

74 R E A L S I M P L E M A R C H 2 0 2 0

If you’re constantly interrupted... C R E AT E A V I S UA L B A R R I E R .

Sometimes you need more than those headphones and dividers. Place some lush greenery to barricade and freshen up your workspace. Pothos plants, snake plants, spider plants, and dragon trees can thrive indoors without sunlight, says Noel Gatts, owner of Beam & Bloom, a design firm in Bloomfield, New Jersey. Unexpected drop-ins and Slack pings happen...a lot. When a task is interrupted, it takes about 23 minutes to get back on track, found a study at the University of California, Irvine. To help train yourself to bounce back quickly, try meditating with an app like Stop, Breathe & Think (free; iOS and Android). “Your mind naturally wanders,” says Vish Chatterji, coauthor of The Business Casual Yogi. “You’ll help reduce the amount of time it takes to refocus.” M E D I TAT E .

Silence your notifications, put a Do Not Disturb sign on your desk or door, and leave an away message on your Slack and IM channels (“My brain needs full power right now. Be back soon”). When that doesn’t work—and it won’t always—be proactive and reschedule the conversation. Tell your officemate you’d love to catch up at a specific time later that day. H E A D O F F D I S RU P T I O N .

If your stuffy office makes you sneeze...

When a task is interrupted, it takes about 23 minutes to get back on track.

R E D U C E P OT E N T I A L A L L E RG E N S .

A few times a week (or every day if you’re super sneezy), clean your phone, desk, lamp, and any tchotchkes with organic wipes. Tackle dust-collecting fibers, like the upholstery on your chair, with a handheld vacuum. The Shark Wandvac ($100; bedbathandbeyond .com) is small enough to stash in your desk drawer. If you have dander allergies, talk to your employer about designating a coat closet for pet owners, says Tom Polucci, director of interiors at the architecture firm HOK. Consider investing in a gadget like the LG Puricare Mini Air Purifier ($199; lg.com), which also checks surrounding air quality through a Bluetooth companion app. Essential oils can mask the everchanging smells that often fill a busy office (microwaved salmon, anyone?). If you don’t have desk space for a diffuser, a few drops of moodboosting peppermint essential oil in a bowl of hot water will work, says Tori Perlstein, a decorator at Spoak, an online home-decorating service. Just run your idea by deskmates first, in case someone is sensitive to fragrance. CLE AR THE AIR.

There may be no better fix than grabbing 15 minutes of fresh air several times a day. Daylight can also enhance wellbeing, according to a Cornell University study. Squeeze in outdoor time however you can; one-onone brainstorms can be turned into walking meetings, Chatterji suggests. GO OUTSIDE.

If you work under terrible fluorescent lighting... “Fluorescent lighting is bright and emits a lot of blue light, which can make you squint and cause your eyes to ache,” says Dora Adamopoulos, an optometrist in Alexandria, Virginia. Follow the 20/20/20 rule, she says: Every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Put a reminder note on your monitor. TA K E A N E Y E B R E A K .

If you’re always too hot or too cold... Workers concentrate better when they’re at a comfortable temperature, another study from Cornell University found. Keep a sweater on your desk chair as your go-to “office layer.” If you become hot easily, embrace the sleeveless shell; wear it under shirts or sweaters that you can remove when you get toasty. L AY E R U P.

People whose body temperature fluctuates drastically might consider a desktop heater-fan combo, like the Dyson Hot + Cool ($450; dyson.com). Folks with cold hands could try a heated mouse pad ($20; urbanoutfitters.com). It’s less hindering than wearing gloves— and feels like getting a spa treatment while you write your quarterly report. A C C E S S O R I Z E YO U R D E S K .

Assuming you can’t change the overhead fluorescents, try an adjustable lamp to illuminate your paper-based work, says Puleio. Look for one that’s dimmable so you can control the brightness, and use an LED bulb, which helps minimize glare. G E T A TA S K L I G H T.

Shop the best desk organizers to keep your workspace—and your headspace— tidy at realsimple.com/neatdesk.

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N U T R I T I O N I ST S H AV E G O O D R E A S O N T O R AV E A B O U T T H E S E FO O D S: T H E Y E N H A N C E YO U R H E A LT H , T A S T E G O O D , A N D C A N B E M I X E D I N T O Y O U R D I E T I N E A S Y, D E L I C I O U S W AY S . By Leslie Goldman

A P E R S O N C A N E AT

only so much in a day. So we asked experts for the new fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious bites most worthy of a try. Their recommendations—from modern takes on mushrooms to unexpected protein sources (watermelon seeds?!)—are a tasty new way to infuse your meals with diseasebattling phytonutrients and other plant chemicals, stacking the odds of better health in your favor.

Photographs by Caitlin Bensel 78 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

Illustrations by Joel Holland

FO O D ST Y L I N G BY A L I R A M E E

A Fresh Crop of Superfoods

M OV E OV E R , C H I P S

Snacking beans

FA M I L I A R B U T C U T E

Caulilini The name conjures images of a bouncing newborn cauliflower, but caulilini is a different variety of the cruciferous veggie. And it has taken the plant-based world by storm. With an edible green stem that explodes into sprays of tiny blond florets, it tastes milder and a bit sweeter than cauliflower but offers the same nutritional benefits, says Wendy Bazilian, DrPH, RD, coauthor of The SuperFoodsRx Diet and Eat Clean, Stay Lean. “It has fiber, vitamin B6 for energy, and vitamin K for bone health and blood clotting. And one cup has nearly 75 percent of your daily vitamin C, for immune functioning and skin health.” WHY IT’S A SUPERFO OD

Like other members of the Brassica family, caulilini contains phytochemicals called glucosinolates, “anti-inflammatory power nutrients that may help reduce certain types of cancers and improve heart health,” Bazilian says. Cruciferous veggies are also high in sulforaphanes, phytochemicals that have been shown to help interrupt the progression of cancer cells. And unlike the giant head of cauliflower currently occupying your produce drawer, this tender veggie requires no chopping, meaning less prep work. How to eat it: Caulilini, which originated in Asia, was recently introduced in the U.S. by the same company that sells cutie Broccolini. The delicate florets brown and crisp up quickly, adding appealing texture and color to stir-fries and side dishes. Thanks to its neutral flavor, it pairs well with spicy sauces.

Beans have been infiltrating snack foods for a while (see: Beanitos chips, Hippeas chickpea puffs). Now a new generation of healthy snacks features beans in their original form—think roasted fava beans and marinated lupin beans. That’s good news for people looking to inject energy into their day or to quiet their grumbling stomachs. “We tend to eat beans in the evening, with dinner, but snacking beans are a great way to spread protein throughout the day, which allows our body to use it more efficiently while helping with satiety between meals,” says Leslie Bonci, RD, MPH, owner of Active Eating Advice in Pittsburgh. WHY THEY’RE A SUPERFO OD

Beans have been tied to a reduced risk of everything from heart disease to diabetes in multiple studies, and they’re a dietary staple in regions of the world where people live the longest. That makes sense: Across the board, beans and legumes are generous sources of protein, fiber, complex carbs, and phytonutrients, compounds that may help protect against the effects of aging. Snacking beans are great to enjoy on the go, but they add texture to salads and cheese plates too.

Unlike that giant head of cauliflower in your produce drawer, tender caulilini requires no chopping.

Lupin beans Roman Empire soldiers reportedly relied on these big, hearty yellow beans for sustained energy during battle. With a buttery, savory taste and a meaty texture, lupins have twice as much fiber as edamame, almost 50 percent more protein than chickpeas, and 80 percent fewer calories than almonds. How to eat them: For a tasty snack with seriously satisfying hand-tomouth action, try Brami’s lightly pickled varieties, which come in flavors like Garlic and Rosemary and Chili and Lime ($20 for 8 [2.3 oz.] pouches; bramisnacks.com).

Fava beans (broad beans) These lima bean doppelgängers are excellent sources of folate. Pregnant women need this vitamin to reduce the risk of certain birth defects, and everyone needs it for optimal blood circulation. How to eat them: The brand Bada Bean roasts the beans until crunchy—Bonci likes the Zesty Ranch flavor ($3 for 3 oz.; amazon .com). They’re also a snappy alternative to croutons.

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T H E N AT U R A L M E AT S U B S T I T U T E

Mushrooms Plant-based “meat” is trendy, but it’s generally ultra-processed— the ingredients have gone through so many changes that they may have lost some of their nutrients. Mushrooms, on the other hand, “have a naturally meaty texture and savory umami flavor, but they contain very few calories and none of the saturated fat or cholesterol of beef,” says Lara Field, RDN, founder of Feed Nutrition Consulting in Chicago. WHY THEY’RE A SUPERFO OD

Mushrooms boast antioxidants plus impressive amounts of immuneboosting vitamin D and selenium, says Megan Meyer, PhD, director of science communication for the International Food Information Council. Selenium, she says, “can help detoxify some cancer-causing compounds in the body.” And a 2019 study in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that seniors who eat more than two servings of mushrooms a week may have a 50 percent reduced risk of mild cognitive impairment. How to eat them: Everyone’s favorite fungi is now showing up as better-for-you jerky. Try Pan’s Mushroom Jerky ($7.50 for 2.2 oz.; thrivemarket.com), which comes in tasty flavors like Zesty Thai and Applewood Barbecue. Or go for a bag of Shrooms Snacks Splits Jerky ($8 for 2.5 oz.; itsamushroom.com), which mixes portabella jerky with meat or fruit jerky.

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For a quick side dish, throw mushrooms onto the grill—according to a Spanish study, grilling increases mushrooms’ antioxidant activity. And in ground beef recipes, Field recommends replacing a quarter to a half of the meat with chopped mushrooms. Blended burgers are better for the planet as well as your health: A World Resources Institute report found that if Americans swapped 30 percent of the beef in our burgers for mushrooms, we’d slash agricultural-related greenhouse gas emissions by so much, it would be like taking 2.3 million cars off the road.

THE SURPRISE

Seeds As more Americans experiment with plant-based eating, the demand for meatless protein sources is rising. (Sixty percent of U.S. adults are trying to squeeze in more protein, according to the market research firm NPD.) Seeds are a smart swap, Field says. WHY THEY’RE A SUPERFO OD

“Seeds carry the ingredients needed to create a new plant, so they tend to be incredibly nutrient-dense,” Field explains. “They offer a nice dose of protein—about eight grams per ounce, on par with one egg— plus fiber and antioxidants.” Thanks to the appetite-satiating protein and fiber (and the portable size), seeds are ideal for snacking. They also pack a lot of key minerals into their tiny package, most containing brain-protective omega-3 fatty acids.

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And they can be a safe alternative for folks with nut allergies, Field says. (They’re also gluten-free, vegan, and Paleo, if any of those diets are your jam.)

Watermelon seeds Mom warned you not to swallow them as a kid, but watermelon seeds are a stellar source of magnesium (good for blood pressure), have more protein per serving than peanuts or almonds, and are loaded with fiber (14 grams per ounce—that’s about the amount in 25 prunes, so go easy!). How to eat them: They taste and chew a bit like pumpkin seeds. Mix shelled, roasted seeds into trail mix or sprinkle them over salads or yogurt. Or buy a spread like Roasted Watermelon Seed Butter ($15 for 14 oz.; 88acres.com) to give your kid the honor of having the only WSB&J at school.

Sacha inchi seeds With a roasted soybean flavor, sacha inchis (hailing from South America) are loaded with brainsupporting alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 similar to the type found in salmon. How to eat them: Enjoy these almond-shaped seeds right out of the bag. Starseed offers a few flavor varieties, including caramelized ($8.50 for 4.9 oz.; amazon.com). You can also smear them on toast in butter form (try Brass Roots Organic Sacha Inchi Seed Butter, $15 for 16 oz.; amazon.com).

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O L D S TA N D BY, N E W S C I E N C E

Prunes Dried plums have a reputation for speeding things along your gastrointestinal tract—and with 12 grams of fiber per cup, they certainly can do just that. But prunes are currently in vogue for a totally different reason: bone health. WHY THEY’RE A SUPERFO OD

“Prunes contain micronutrients, including potassium, boron, and vitamin K, that work together to protect bones,” Bonci says. Combined with compounds called polyphenols, “these nutrients help inhibit the bone breakdown that

occurs with age.” Eating six prunes a day was enough to slow bonecell turnover in postmenopausal women, according to a small but promising study in the Journal of Medicinal Food. Researchers are currently looking at whether the bone-strengthening benefits extend to younger women. Prunes are even being studied as a way to prevent bone-mass loss among astronauts in space. How to eat them: Try prunes in salads or oatmeal, stuff them with walnuts, or just pop them plain. Their natural sweetness lets you cut back on refined sugar when baking—you can substitute prune puree for half the sugar called for in a recipe. (To make a cup of puree, blend eight ounces of prunes with six tablespoons of hot water.)

K I M C H I 2020 This fermented cabbage dish is a go-to for probiotic health, but nutritionist Bazilian says the traditional Korean side isn’t technically a superfood—it’s a “superfood concoction.” Cabbage brings the same anti-inflammatory, anticancer game to the table as broccoli and Brussels sprouts. H O W T O E AT I T: Once-fringe kimchi has gone mainstream,

living its best life as a burrito filling, scrambled egg garnish, and more. “Anywhere tangy fits, kimchi can fit,” Bazilian says. Try it on pizza or grilled cheese, or in soup or grain bowls.

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4 Charity Challenges Even the Most Generous People Encounter M A K E YO U R M O N E Y T R A N S FO R M I N TO G O O D D E E D S W I T H T H E S E T O P T I P S F RO M E X P E RT S. By Kristine Gill

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Just like housing, car insurance, and groceries, donations should be factored into your budget, says Kristine Stevenson Seale, a financial coach in Temple, Texas. “Base the amount you give on your monthly income,” she advises. If you can afford it, make charitable giving about 10 percent of your budget. And get in the habit of donating once a month rather than at the end of the year. To maximize your donation, opt out of the incentive gift, like the tote bag or coffee mug, says Phil Buchanan, author of Giving Done Right. If a cash donation is a stretch one month, ask the organization if you can donate time or skills instead; you might do IT work for the website or organize a food drive. Remember, too, that you can give goods instead of money— bring tools to Habitat for Humanity, say, or personal-care products to a shelter.

M I L L E S S T U D I O/ S T O C K S Y

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How do I know I’m giving to a reputable organization, and is a big or small charity better? 2

Should I donate less money to more charities or more money to fewer? Your money will generally go further if you donate the bulk of it to just a few places, says Ashley Post, spokesperson for Charity Navigator, an independent charity evaluator. (No matter how much you give, write a check whenever possible, since up to 5 percent of a credit card or online donation is often lost to processing fees.) It may help to divide the total sum into percentages of 50, 30, and 20, says Jason Franklin, PhD, founder and principal at Ktisis Capital in Grand Rapids, Michigan. You could dedicate 50 percent to one cause that you care deeply about, 30 percent to ones that you feel connected to but that aren’t top priority, and 20 percent to unplanned donations, like those random requests to sponsor your friend’s trivia team at a fundraiser.

Search for national charities on give.org, run by the Better Business Bureau, to get a look at their financials, including administrative costs (is there a fat cat CEO?) and program expenses. “For insight into the effectiveness of smaller, local charities, check with your community foundation,” Buchanan says. (Find yours at cof.org.) You could also try volunteering first. Sometimes just working the water station at a road race can give you a sense of an organization’s ethos—think of it as a fact-finding mission. As for choosing between a big or small organization, go with what you think will have the most impact, Post says. Some people might give to their local food pantry to directly benefit the people in their area; for other folks, it might make more sense to donate to a national charity working to improve public policies surrounding hunger.

T I P S TO R E M E M B E R F O R TA X T I M E

Get It in Writing Ask for an itemized receipt for any donation of money or goods, even if it amounts to less than the IRS’s $250 threshold. If your noncash donation is worth more than $500, you have to complete IRS Form 8283. A noncash donation worth more than $5,000 requires an appraisal.

Take a Picture Before you donate goods, snap a photo of the pile, Thomas says. If you’re not sure how much that business suit or dining room set is worth, check the online valuation guides from Goodwill and the Salvation Army.

Stay Organized

There are so many fundraising campaigns on GoFundMe and Facebook. What’s legit? We’ve all heard the scam stories—the phony appeals for homeless vets, the woman who faked cancer. The best way to avoid being had is to know (a) the person who started the campaign and (b) exactly what the donation will pay for, Post says. (GoFundMe deducts a 2.9 percent processing fee from donations, so if you know someone who’s rebuilding after a wildfire, for example, you can just give the person cash directly.) As a rule, never give money via phone or email, even if the cause sounds legit. And keep in mind: Contributions aren’t tax-deductible unless a qualified nonprofit has organized the fundraising, says Katie Thomas, a certified public accountant and co-owner of Diamond J Accounting in Phoenix.

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Save receipts and documents in a designated folder, says Julie Colucci, associate adviser at New England Investment & Retirement Group in North Andover, Massachusetts. Or use an app like Evernote Scannable (free; iOS) to store receipts in a digital folder that’s easy to share with your accountant.

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Ahhh... When you notice you’re being hard on yourself, try this to replace negative self-talk with kindness. Gently place your hand on your heart and pause for a few breaths. Let your inhales and exhales be natural and relaxed as you feel the rise and fall of your chest. Notice the sensations there: your heartbeat, warmth. Then make a wish for yourself, something like “May I be strong and healthy” or “May I feel peaceful, safe, and content.” Take a moment to consider what you need to hear, and repeat that silently a few times.

OFFSET

—JAMIE PRICE, Stop, Breathe & Think

For more meditations like this one, download the Stop, Breathe & Think app (free; iOS and Android).

Photograph by Alice Gao

BL ACK BEAN & S AU S A G E MEXICAN PIZZAS

Prep the cabb age topping and let it sit while you finish the re cip e—it will b e come extra tender and vibrant.

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

Comfort fo o d at its b est, and re ady in 15 minutes!

REFRIED BEAN & CHEESE M E LT S

Mo d e r n M ex i c a n W E L OV E TAC O S T O O, B U T T H E R E ’ S S O M U C H M O R E DELICIOUSNESS TO DISCOVER IN THESE RIFFS ON TR ADITIONAL DISHES.

by A N A N D A E I D E L S T E I N

photo graphs by J E N N I F E R C A U S E Y

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

Stir this one-p ot p asta often for even co oking and less sticking.

SKILLET MEXICAN PA S TA

S k i l l e t M ex i c a n Pa sta Black Bean and Sausage M ex i c a n P i z za s ACTIVE TIME 25 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 35 MINUTES SERVES 4

1 1/2 cups packed shredded red cabbage (from 1 small head) 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional) 2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice (from 1 lime) 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided 12 oz. fully cooked Mexican-style chorizo

ACTIVE TIME 30 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 35 MINUTES SERVES 4

rotating sheets from top to bottom halfway through. Remove from oven. half of cheese evenly over tortillas and spoon bean mixture on top. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Return to oven and bake until cheese melts, 4 to 5 minutes. SPRINKLE

pizzas with cabbage mixture and cut into wedges. Serve immediately with guacamole, if using. TOP

3 Tbsp. olive oil, divided

1 clove garlic, finely chopped

8 oz. Colby Jack cheese, shredded (about 2 cups) Guacamole, for serving (optional) PREHEAT oven to 450°F with racks in upper and lower thirds. Toss cabbage, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a large bowl. Set aside. If chorizo has casing, remove and discard. Crumble chorizo with your fingers and set aside.

2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion, oregano, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is softened and golden, 4 to 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring often, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add crumbled chorizo, beans, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring often, until mixture is heated through and combined, about 5 minutes. HEAT

BRUSH remaining 1 tablespoon oil evenly over both sides of tortillas. Divide tortillas between 2 baking sheets. Bake until golden and toasted, 8 to 10 minutes,

1 tsp. kosher salt, divided 12 oz. fine egg noodles 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 28-oz. can crushed tomatoes 2 Tbsp. canned adobo sauce (or to taste) 1 dried bay leaf 1 1/4 cups chicken or vegetable stock, divided 3 oz. queso fresco, crumbled (about 3/4 cup)

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

4 10-in. flour tortillas

1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup sour cream

1 yellow onion, finely chopped

1 15.5-oz. can black beans, drained and rinsed

3 Tbsp. olive oil

Sliced avocado, for serving

Re f r i e d B e a n a n d Cheese Melts ACTIVE TIME 15 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 15 MINUTES SERVES 4

2 demi-baguettes or large hoagie rolls, split 1 clove garlic, halved 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, softened 1 15.4-oz. can refried beans, warmed 6 oz. Manchego cheese, grated (about 1 3/4 cups)

Fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems, for serving oil in a large skillet over medium. Add onion and 1/4 teaspoon salt; cook, stirring often, until softened, about 4 minutes. Add noodles and cook, tossing with tongs and shaking skillet occasionally to redistribute into an even layer, until noodles are toasted and golden in spots, 4 to 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook, tossing with tongs, until fragrant, about 1 minute. HEAT

PREHEAT

broiler with rack 6 inches from heat. Arrange bread halves, cut sides up, on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Broil until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. (Watch carefully so bread doesn’t burn.) Remove from oven.

STIR in tomatoes, adobo sauce, bay leaf, 1 cup stock, and remaining 3/4 teaspoon salt; bring to a simmer over medium. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring often and redistributing into an even layer, until noodles are tender, about 12 minutes. Stir in remaining 1/4 cup stock, scraping up browned bits from bottom of skillet with a wooden spoon. Remove from heat. Cover and let stand for about 5 minutes. Remove and discard bay leaf.

cut sides of bread with cut sides of garlic halves; discard garlic. Spread bread with butter, then with beans. Top with cheese. Return to oven.

sour cream and 2 tablespoons water in a bowl. Stir noodle mixture in skillet. Top with sour cream, cheese, avocado, and cilantro.

Pico de gallo, for serving Dressed salad greens, for serving

RUB

MIX

until cheese is bubbly and golden, about 3 minutes. Cut bread pieces in half on an angle. Serve with pico de gallo and greens. BROIL

MARCH 2020 RE AL SIMPLE

SPICY CR AB T O S TA D A S

After tasting the celer y le aves in this e asy me al, you’ll never throw them away again.

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Traditionally, mole has a ver y long ingre dient list. This one is stre amline d enough for we eknight co oking.

RO A S T E D M U S H RO O M MOLE E N C H I L A DA S

ZE ST Y CORN SOUP WITH CHICKEN

This comforting soup has all the irresistible flavors of Mexican stre et corn.

Ro a ste d M u s h ro o m Mole Enchiladas ACTIVE TIME 40 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 40 MINUTES SERVES 4

1 large yellow onion, halved lengthwise

S p i c y C ra b To sta d a s ACTIVE TIME 25 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 30 MINUTES SERVES 4

1 1/2 lb. mixed fresh mushrooms, quartered (about 6 cups) 1/4 cup plus 2 Tbsp. olive oil, divided 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 1 1/4 tsp. chili powder

1 large jalapeño

1 tsp. ground coriander

1/3 cup mayonnaise

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1/4 cup canola oil 4 6-in. corn tortillas

3 Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder 2 cups vegetable stock 1/4 cup unsweetened almond butter

2 stalks celery, finely chopped (1/2 cup), plus leaves for serving

1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 Tbsp. fresh lime juice (from 1 lime) 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper Thinly sliced radishes, for serving Green pepper hot sauce, for serving (optional) broiler with rack 6 inches from heat. Place jalapeño on a baking sheet and broil until charred in spots, 5 to 8 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes. Finely chop and transfer to a small bowl; stir in mayonnaise and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Set aside. PREHEAT

oil in a medium skillet over mediumhigh. Add 1 tortilla; cook, flipping once and pressing down with a spatula for even coloring, until golden, about 1 minute per side. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Repeat with remaining 3 tortillas. (Reduce heat as needed if tortillas get too dark around edges.) Season fried tortillas with 1/4 teaspoon salt. HEAT

crabmeat, celery, shallot, lime juice, pepper, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt in a bowl until combined. Spread jalapeño mayonnaise over tortillas and top with crabmeat mixture. Top with radishes, celery leaves, and hot sauce (if using). STIR

ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 20 MINUTES SERVES 4

3 Tbsp. tomato paste

8 oz. cooked jumbo lump crabmeat, drained and picked over

1 small shallot, finely chopped (2 Tbsp.)

Z e st y C o r n S o u p w i th C h i c ke n

1 Tbsp. sugar 8 6-in. corn tortillas, warmed Chopped roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas), for serving oven to 450°F with racks in upper and lower thirds. Finely chop 1 onion half; set aside. Thinly slice remaining half; reserve a few slices for serving. Toss sliced onion, mushrooms, 1/4 cup oil, and 3/4 teaspoon salt in a large bowl. Divide mixture between 2 baking sheets and spread in an even layer. Roast for 20 minutes. Stir; continue roasting until mixture is golden brown, 5 to 10 minutes. PREHEAT

make mole: Heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium. Add chopped onion, garlic, and 1/4 teaspoon salt; cook until softened, 3 to 4 minutes. Add chili powder, coriander, and cinnamon; cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute. Stir in cocoa, then tomato paste; cook, stirring constantly, until mixture becomes a darkened paste, about 1 minute. Add stock, scraping up browned bits from bottom of skillet. Whisk in almond butter and sugar and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook, whisking occasionally, until mixture is thickened, about 12 minutes. Stir in pepper and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. MEANWHILE,

2 Tbsp. unsalted butter 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro stems, plus chopped leaves for serving 1 clove garlic, grated (preferably on a Microplane) 1 10-oz. bag frozen corn 1 1/4 tsp. kosher salt 3 cups chicken stock 1/3 cup mayonnaise 1 tsp. lime zest plus 2 Tbsp. fresh juice (from 1 lime), divided 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken (from 1 chicken) Grated cotija cheese, for serving Cayenne, for serving butter in a saucepan over medium. Add cilantro stems and garlic; cook, stirring often, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add corn and salt; stir to coat. Add stock and bring to a boil over high. Reduce heat to low and simmer, undisturbed, until flavors meld, 8 to 10 minutes. MELT

stir together mayonnaise and lime zest in a small bowl. MEANWHILE,

saucepan from heat. Stir in lime juice and 1 tablespoon lime mayonnaise. Top soup with chicken, cheese, chopped cilantro leaves, cayenne, and remaining lime mayonnaise. REMOVE

tongs, dip 1 tortilla into mole to coat; transfer to a 3-quart serving dish. Top tortilla with 1/3 cup roasted mushroom mixture; roll up and place seam side down. Repeat with remaining tortillas and mushroom mixture. Top with remaining mole, reserved sliced onion, and pepitas. USING

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W HAT M AKE S A G RE AT NE IG HB O R A garden. A sewing machine. A cup of coffee. A willingness to actually meet, talk, and connect face-to-face. These five people are the winners of Real Simple’s third annual Great Neighbor Awards—and inspirations to us all. BY JENNIFER CHEN I N PA RT N E R S H I P W I T H T H E S O C I A L N E T W O R K N E X T D O O R

PHOTO GR APHS BY JEFF MINTON

THE GARDENER WHO NOURISHED A NEIGHBORHOOD Jamiah Hargins

moved to the West Adams neighborhood of Los Angeles in 2015, he planted a backyard garden so he and his family (wife Ginnia and daughter Triana) could enjoy fruits and vegetables. But that small plot produced more than they could eat. Not wanting all the herbs, lemons, and beans to go to waste, Jamiah posted on Nextdoor, the hyperlocal social network, to gauge his neighbors’ interest in a crop swap. The turnout was substantial. Fifteen people showed up, bearing armfuls of artichokes, kale, onions, and pumpkins from their small backyards and container gardens. “I was delighted by how many people were willing to meet strangers on a Sunday morning,” Jamiah says. And they ended up exchanging thoughts as well as crops: Kristin Kloc figured she’d offload some oranges and be on her way. “But then we started talking about growing food and the importance of social equality,” she recalls. HEN JAMIAH HARGINS

When he grew too many lemons and herbs, Jamiah created an informal crop swap that has turned into an official farmers market in his Los Angeles community. He’s shown here in the garden of neighbor Jelani Thomas.

The group steadily expanded to include about 100 people, and Jamiah created an official organization, Crop Swap LA. This past December, the group transformed an empty parking lot into a farmers market, complete with 10 stalls, food trucks, live music, and free yoga. Members also help neighbors start their own urban gardens, and they’re investigating ways to use nearly every arable square inch of West Adams—business rooftops, parking lots, front yards—to grow more food. The goals are to transform an area thought of (by some) as a food desert and encourage resident involvement. Jamiah loves being recognized as the Crop Swap Guy, but he finds his connection with his community much more rewarding. “Individualism can only get you so far. When you work together, you’re undefeatable,” he says.

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THE VOLUNTEER WHO STITCHED T O G E T H E R T W O C U LT U R E S

“She showed us there are still good neighbors,” SAWAC founder Fartun Ismail (far right) says of Leslie (center), pictured with (left to right) Suleyka Kediye and Hodan Osman.

more than 52,000 people of Somali heritage, a community that grew and thrived after an influx to the area in the early 1990s during Somalia’s civil war. As established as the population is, Minnesotan Leslie Mallery says, “I realized I was surrounded by Somali people, but I knew nothing about them.” When she saw a volunteer opportunity on Nextdoor to teach sewing at the Somali American Women Action Center (SAWAC) in Minneapolis, the sewing enthusiast raised her hand (and pincushion). Fartun Ismail, the founder of SAWAC, was thrilled to have her. “Leslie is so talented,” she says, “but also our community felt unwelcome in this political climate, and having Leslie teach showed there are still good neighbors who embrace us.” Leslie faced some challenges at first: Beyond the limited facilities—15 students shared five machines— the language barrier was steep. Most of her students aren’t fluent in English, and Leslie doesn’t speak Somali. “But I was determined to stick with it,” she says. She relies on finding a student to interpret for her, and when the women’s school-age daughters come to class, they help translate. I N N E S O TA I S H O M E T O

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Today Leslie holds weekly sessions and works with Fartun to oversee eight instructors, who teach about 50 women five days a week. When the group outgrew their space, Leslie got the Mount Olivet Lutheran Church to provide a classroom, and she has put out a call on Nextdoor for sewing machines, supplies, and fabric store gift cards. Leslie and Fartun hope the classes help recent immigrants find ways to make money for their families. A few of Leslie’s students have gotten jobs at the nearby MyPillow factory, while others simply benefit from the chance to practice English. Suleyka Kediye started class with zero sewing skills and now designs tote bags. “Leslie’s open heart helps us learn,” she says. “She’s an awesome teacher.” For her part, Leslie is forever changed: “The most rewarding thing is seeing women who’ve lived through such hardship be proud of something they didn’t think they could do,” she says.

P R O P ST Y L I N G BY W H I T H A Z E N

Leslie Mallery

T H E G UA R D I A N A N G E L WHO R ALLIED A COMMUNIT Y Emmàlee Abel

Jayson Amos since she was 11. He was her older brother Adam’s good friend—and the last person to see Adam alive before he died by suicide. Jayson would sometimes help Abel (she goes by her last name) around her house in Indianapolis. One day, in her living room, Abel found Jayson flat on the floor, disoriented, with one side of his face drooping. He had suffered a brain hemorrhage. Emergency surgery involved removing a portion of Jayson’s skull, and he lost use of his left arm, hand, and leg. After leaving the hospital—and unable to pay for a group home—Jayson found himself with nowhere to live. Abel swooped in and offered him a vacant rental she owned. She then posted on Nextdoor, asking neighbors for help furnishing his new place. “It was the right thing to do,” she says. Some 80 people donated goods: cookware, a TV, clothes, bedsheets, a one-handed can opener, a wheelchair, Papa John’s gift cards. Neighbors stuck cards and Post-it notes on the items, cheering on Jayson’s recovery with messages like “Hang in there,” “Glad you’re here,” and “Welcome to the neighborhood.” Jayson hung the notes up in his bedroom. When Abel wrote on Nextdoor that Jayson didn’t qualify for public assistance, someone volunteered to take him to a local food pantry. “It was amazing because I pretty much had nothing,” Jayson says. Jayson has since qualified for a home health care aide, but Abel continues to help. She keeps in touch with the agency overseeing his care, has found a doctor to make house calls, and schedules his medical appointments. “I don’t do as much as I could, but I do hope my brother would be proud of me,” she says. Jayson, who calls Abel “terrific” and “amazing,” sees her as more than a friend. “She’s like my little sister,” he says. And a guardian angel. MMà LEE ABEL HAS KNOWN

“She’s like my little sister,” Jayson says of his caretaker and friend.

ABOUT NEXTD O OR Nextdoor is a social network for neighborhoods across the country. Members use the site to buy and sell items, share recommendations (from plumbers to babysitters), organize events, and stay in the know about community happenings, among other things. Hover your phone’s camera over the code to sign up, or visit nextdoor.com.

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“The first meeting was an eye-opener,” recalls Willie (right), shown with neighbor Pat Ginn. “One person said, ‘I never thought about race.’”

THE RETIREE WHO C R E AT E D A S A F E S PA C E T O TA L K A B O U T R A C E Willie Poinsette

bitter pile-on in social media comments results in anything good—especially when the topic is race. But that’s how events transpired for Willie Poinsette and Liberty Miller in Lake Oswego, Oregon, a predominantly white suburb of Portland. When someone shared a piece on Nextdoor about a black man being called a racial epithet by a white driver, the commentary devolved into arguments and misunderstandings. As the negativity spiraled, Liberty asked if everyone could sit down and discuss the issue—in person. The request got exactly one volunteer: retired school principal Willie. The two met for coffee and decided to repost the request along with a photo of themselves. They hoped that seeing a picture of two people of different races talking (Liberty is white; Willie is black) would inspire neighbors to show up. That was three years ago. The first meeting of Respond to Racism drew 66 people for a discussion led by Liberty and Willie. Lake Oswego residents of color candidly described T ’ S R A R E T H AT A H E AT E D ,

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their frustrations and the ways they’d experienced overt racism. When the meeting ended, the group decided to keep the discourse going. Since then, up to 200 people—including elected representatives, reporters, and police officers—have joined the monthly meetings. “For some, it was an eye-opener,” Willie says. “I can remember one person said, ‘I never thought about race or racism at all.’ ” Meetings usually begin with potluck appetizers and chitchat, leading into a talk by a guest speaker and then breakout discussions. Sometimes there are formal exercises; at a recent meeting, members paired off to open up about the first time they noticed race. Willie has occasionally closed with a Civil Rights–era song (“Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around” has been a particular favorite). “Some nights, these meetings are the most diverse gatherings in Lake Oswego,” participant Jan Standlea says. “This is a place where people can tell the truth about their experiences.” Slowly but steadily, the group has inspired changes: Participants have helped create diversity committees in the community, encouraged local minorities to run for office, formed relationships with Lake Oswego political leaders and police officers, and cosponsored a diversity and inclusion summit. During Respond to Racism’s first year, Liberty relocated for family reasons, but Willie has made the organization her second act. She finds fulfillment in bringing her community together to help heal longstanding wounds. “I’ve learned that saying ‘Let’s sit down and talk and collaborate’ builds meaningful relationships,” she says.

To read about the previous years’ winners, visit realsimple.com/ neighborawards.

THE MAN WHO TURNED A G RO U P O F G U Y S I N T O F R I E N D S Abraham Walker

make a dozen new friends between their homes and the corner mailbox. Men? Not so much. That’s why Abraham Walker got proactive about his social life after he, his wife, and two sons relocated to Alexandria, Virginia. A real estate agent and an extrovert, he noticed his neighbors seemed to just go to work, come home, and repeat. In 2018, he started asking men in his neighborhood if they wanted to chat over coffee. After keeping this up for a few months, he cast a wider net. His approach was radically simple: He posted an open invitation on Nextdoor for local men to meet for coffee. In less than a week, he had about 36 responses. “Although, only half of those responses were valid, because a good portion were wives who wanted their husbands to join,” Abraham says, laughing. Eight guys arrived to the first meet-up, in February 2019, and immediately hit it off. “This guy Compton and I, we live three blocks away from each other,” Abraham says. “Our kids go to the same school, but we didn’t know each other. Now we’re friends.” Over the past year, Abraham’s group has maintained bimonthly get-togethers—and they pull this off and O M E N C A N S E E M I N G LY

manage the schedule without the help of their wives. Randolph Duverna, another Virginia transplant and father, likes inviting the men over for poker nights. “This group has been great to have that camaraderie, especially for activities my wife would never do, like axe-throwing or going to the shooting range.” But the connections extend much deeper than Texas Hold’em and flying hatchets: In the days after Logan Morris’s daughter was born, his new friends reached out with congratulations and offers to help. “I can’t thank them enough,” he says. “We share ideas, successes, and failures openly and without judgment.” Abraham has registered his club with City Dads Group, a national organization, and hopes to expand. “This group gives me an opportunity to be a role model to my sons and show them how to build a community,” he says. And it all started over a cup of coffee.

Abraham (center) with pals he met via a casual call-out on Nextdoor.

When you’re passionate about a cause, of course you want to get your friends in on it. And it doesn’t have to be all benefits and fancy events. You can put the “fun” in “charity fundraiser” by inviting your crew over for one of these easy, low-key gatherings. BY

S T E P H A N I E

P H O T O G R A P H S

PROP ST YLING BY CL AIRE SP OLLEN

S I S C O

V I C T O R

P R O TA S I O

FO OD ST YLING BY CHEL SE A ZIMMER

L E T T E R I N G A N D I L LU ST R AT I O N S BY B A B E T H L A FO N

HOST A invite over a small group (up to eight people) to enjoy a new spin on the classic wine tasting. In order to “play,” each guest must contribute a minimum amount (say, at least $20) to your selected charity—and bring two bottles of their favorite wine. Then the fun begins: When guests arrive, put one bottle in a numbered paper bag to hide the label, and set the other one aside in a prize box. Throughout the night, pour from the bagged bottles and have guests rank each wine. Tally the results— the guest who brought the winner gets to take home all those bottles you set aside. You can use an app like Vivino to share stats about each wine, such as price, tasting notes, and pairing suggestions. Cue oohs and aahs if the group fave ends up being a $13 bottle that outranked much pricier vintages. O R T H I S A D U LT S - O N LY E V E N T,

W I T H S O M E F R I E N D LY COMPETITION

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HOW TO INTRODUCE YO U R C H A R I T Y Before the activity starts, deliver a short speech or show a five-minute video about the organization your event is raising funds for. Hearing from you or someone directly benefiting from the charity will help make guests feel connected to the cause and more motivated to give. “Practice the ask ahead of time,” says Marc Pitman, author of Ask Without Fear! This can help you get familiar with your message and ensure guests hear it loud and clear. If you’re nervous, Pitman says, admit it. Try, “You know, I don’t normally do this sort of thing, but this cause is so important that it’s worth my discomfort.”

THE MENU Don’t let all that vino go to their heads. Our food team came up with three dishes that complement a variety of wines. Visit realsimple .com/purposerecipes for complete recipes. R E D P E P P E R , WA L N U T, A N D TA H I N I D I P MINI CRAB CAKES WITH LEMON-CHIVE M AY O N N A I S E CHEESE B OARD

W H AT C A N I BRING?

O P E N I N G S P R E A D : S H A P ES RU N N E R I N B LU E , $78 ; M I N N A- G O O DS.CO M . RUG ; 1 8 T H ST R E E TO R I E N TA LS.CO M FO R I N FO. CO R KSC R EW A N D W I N E C H A R M S : T Y M EC H A M / FOOD52. PRODUCT IMAGES COURTESY OF MANUFACTURERS

THE VIBE Give your event a moody feel with candlelight, dramatic hues like burgundy and indigo, and rich wood elements. One Bordeaux glass per person can work for all wine styles. No need to rinse between wines if you’re moving from light to more intense. Have a dump bucket handy for people who don’t want to finish each glass.

If a guest asks how they can help, that’s your chance to request a donation, says Lauren Bush Lauren, founder of Feed Projects. Say, “Whatever you’d spend on an extra bottle of wine or dessert, consider contributing to the charity instead.”

Treat this like a flight, arranging cheeses from mildest (like Manchego) to most intense (like a stinky blue). Find an assortment of textures (hard, semisoft, soft) and milk sources (cow, sheep, goat) so there’s something for everyone.

INSPIRED PRODUCTS

Riedel Vinum Cabernet Wine Glasses, $88 for 4; bedbathandbeyond.com.

MT Products Quart Size Kraft Paper To Go Bag, $12 for 50; amazon.com.

Rabbit Two-Step Corkscrew & Wine Charms Stopper, $32; food52.com.

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HOST AN

T O G E T E V E RY O N E I N V O L V E D

THE MENU

have to be monetary. The ask could be “Bring books” instead of “Bring your checkbook.” A children’s book drive is a fun and meaningful way to engage the whole family and inspire kids to give back. No matter what, make sure your request is clear. Pitman shares tips for communicating your message before and during the event: O N AT I O N S D O N ’ T A LWAY S

THE VIBE Draw inspiration from a classic pizzeria and opt for a graphic tablecloth and disposable plates made from recycled materials (try the ones from Chinet). Potted herbs serve as both a centerpiece and additional garnish.

S M A L L G R I D B L A C K TA B L E C L O T H , $ 5 5 ; U N I S O N H O M E . C O M . 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 FA C T U R E R S

• On your invitation, call it a “benefit to raise funds and awareness” so guests know a request for donations is coming. There’s nothing worse than being caught off guard—without cash or a checkbook. • At the event, ask for a specific dollar amount. What’s the cost to run the program for a day or an hour? This will give guests a reference point as they determine what they’re able to offer.

Make your own pies along with a few crowdpleasing sides, like salad and breadsticks. Visit realsimple.com/ purposerecipes (or scan the smart code below) for our recipes. RED S AU CE WHITE S AU CE B E T T E R - F O R -Y O U CAESAR SALAD WITH L E M O N - PA R M E S A N CROUTONS GARLIC BRE AD Hover your phone’s camera here to find all the recipes from this story.

• Encourage giving by sharing what you’ll be contributing yourself. Alternatively, consider matching the total donation up to whatever amount you feel comfortable with.

INSPIRED PRODUCTS PLAN AHEAD

Cream Simply Eco Large Plates, $13 for 8; merimeri.com.

Bicycle Pizza Cutter, $21; tenthousand villages.com.

Choice Swirl Metal Display Stand, $5.50; webstaurantstore.com.

If you don’t have the time (or kitchen space) to make pizzas, order in. On your invite, ask guests to RSVP and share any dietar y restrictions. That way you can keep ever yone’s needs in mind when you order.

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HOST A

get-together, ask guests to provide at least one shareable dessert. Sell to-go boxes—$15 for a big box and $8 for a small one—so guests can pack up their sweet selections. This type of fundraiser is great for people with limited extra dough, like college students, says Stephanie Roth, coauthor of The Accidental Fundraiser. The participation cost is low (a batch of cookies!) and there’s the perk of taking treats home—all while benefiting a good cause. Visit your neighborhood bakery and ask if they’d be willing to donate a cake or pie. Use that donation for a silent auction and give the bakery a shout-out on the signage. Put the winning bid toward the total donation. O R T H I S C A S UA L

THE VIBE Arrange the treats buffet-style, using cake stands and trifle bowls to keep everything visible and easily accessible. Identify each item with a place card (add a descriptor like “contains nuts” or “gluten-free”) and provide tongs and napkins.

THE MENU If you need some inspiration for your baked goods, try one of our favorites. Find the recipes at realsimple.com/ purposerecipes. COCONUT POUND CAKE C ARROT C AKE SANDWICH COOKIES BREAK AND BAKE KITCHEN SINK CO OKIES B RÛ L É E D L E M O N BAR S WITH BROWNB U T T E R C RU S T COOKIES AND CRE AM CHEESECAKE BROWNIE S

O UR EXPERTS INSPIRED PRODUCTS

Wendy Frattolin, director of communications and membership at Dining for Women Lauren Bush Lauren, founder of Feed Projects Marc Pitman, CEO of Concord Leadership Group and author of Ask Without Fear!

Window Boxes with Handles, from $0.90; containerstore.com.

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Brushed Gold Tongs, $15; cb2.com.

Hexagon Place Card Holder, $9; bhldn.com.

Stephanie Roth, principal at Klein & Roth Consulting and coauthor of The Accidental Fundraiser Adrian Smith, Vivino’s global brand ambassador and TV presenter for Amazon Prime’s The Three Drinkers

B U F F E T; S C A N D E S I G N G A L L E R Y. C O M F O R I N F O . L S A I N T E R N AT I O N A L I VA L O A S H S TA N D & D O M E , $ 1 5 0 ; A M A R A . C O M . 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 FA C T U R E R S

T O T R E AT P E O P L E F O R T H E I R G I F T

“Everyone hosts in their own way— have fun with it! Your party should be a reflection of you.” L AUREN BUSH L AUREN

WRAP IT UP Send an email to your entire invite list to fill them in on the final donation amount. Include a link to the organization’s site to make giving easy for those who couldn’t attend.

Earn 4% cash back on dining & entertainment So check out a new ramen shop or get tickets to a new show. With the Capital One® Savor ® card, when you go out, you cash in.

F O O D S T Y L I N G B Y M A R G A R E T D I C K E Y; P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y A U D R E Y D AV I S

IN G O O D TA STE It may not feel like it on a busy weeknight, but cooking is an act of generosity. Whether you’re serving your kids a bowl of creamy, lemony pasta (page 124) or surprising a neighbor with a batch of oatmeal peanut butter bars (page 130), sharing food is both primal and profound. And remember that feeding yourself well is an act of kindness— especially when you enjoy something as sustaining as healthy vegetarian meatballs (page 126). Everyone deserves the care and attention offered by delicious food, including you.

Photograph by Caitlin Bensel

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HEAT 1 1/2 tablespoons oil in a large, high-sided skillet with a lid over medium-high. Season chicken with curry powder and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt. Cook half the chicken, flipping once, until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with remaining 11/2 tablespoons oil and chicken.

Easy Dinner 1

ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 30 MINUTES SERVES 6

✓ Quick Cooking ✓ One Pot ✓ Gluten-Free ✓ Family Friendly ✓ Big Batch

3 Tbsp. canola oil, divided 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed and patted dry 2 Tbsp. curry powder 2 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1 small bunch fresh cilantro 1 large shallot, sliced 1 13.66-oz. can coconut milk, well shaken and stirred, divided 1 cup jasmine rice, rinsed 3 Tbsp. creamy peanut butter 4 tsp. fresh lime juice (from 1 lime) 1 Tbsp. tamari or soy sauce 1 tsp. light brown sugar Sliced cucumber, for serving

stir peanut butter, lime juice, tamari, sugar, and remaining 1/4 cup coconut milk in a bowl. Drizzle sauce over rice and chicken; top with cilantro leaves. Serve with cucumber. MEANWHILE,

PER SERVING: 547 Calories, 34g Fat (16g Saturated), 139mg Cholesterol, 2g Fiber, 32g Protein, 30g Carbs, 952mg Sodium, 2g Sugar

Recipes by Julia Levy Photographs by Caitlin Bensel

F O O D S T Y L I N G B Y M A R G A R E T D I C K E Y; P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y A U D R E Y D AV I S

One-Pot Asian Chicken and Rice

cilantro stems to equal 1/4 cup; set leaves aside. Return skillet to medium-high. Add cilantro stems and shallot; cook, stirring often, for 30 seconds. Stir in 1 1/2 cups coconut milk, 1/4 cup water, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, scraping up any browned bits. Add rice and chicken; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 12 minutes. Remove from heat and let steam, covered, for 5 minutes. CHOP

FOOD

Easy Dinner 2

2 tsp. smoked paprika 6 Tbsp. olive oil, divided

Crispy Chickpeas and Veggies with Carrot Hummus ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 35 MINUTES SERVES 4

✓ Vegetarian ✓ Gluten-Free

1 1/2 lb. rainbow carrots, peeled 1 15-oz. can chickpeas, drained, rinsed, and patted very dry 12 oz. mixed fresh mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), trimmed and quartered 2 1/2 oz. baby kale 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided 2 Tbsp. tahini 3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice (from 2 lemons), divided oven to 450°F. Stir paprika and 4 tablespoons olive oil in a bowl. Cut 1/2 pound carrots lengthwise and 1 pound into 1-inch-thick rounds; set rounds aside. PREHEAT

long carrots, chickpeas, mushrooms, and 2 tablespoons paprika oil on a rimmed baking sheet; spread in a single layer. Bake until browned, tender, and crisp, about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through. Toss chickpea mixture with kale and 1/2 teaspoon salt. TOSS

bring 1 inch of water to a boil in a medium saucepan fitted with a steamer basket over medium-high. Add carrot rounds, cover, and steam until tender, about 20 minutes. Place steamed carrots in a food processor with 2 tablespoons water, tahini, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 teaspoon salt. Process until smooth. MEANWHILE,

carrot puree onto plates; top with chickpea-kale mixture. Combine remaining paprika oil and 1 tablespoon lemon juice; drizzle on top. SPREAD

PER SERVING: 406 Calories, 27g Fat

(4g Saturated), 0mg Cholesterol, 11g Fiber, 10g Protein, 37g Carbs, 978mg Sodium, 12g Sugar

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4 6-oz. skin-on halibut fillets

Easy Dinner 3

Fast Italian Fish Stew ACTIVE TIME 25 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 30 MINUTES SERVES 4

✓ Quick Cooking ✓ One Pot ✓ Gluten-Free

1 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided 6 Tbsp. olive oil, divided 2 Tbsp. drained capers 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced 2 pt. cherry tomatoes, halved 2 15-oz. cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken stock 1/2 tsp. lemon zest plus 2 tsp. fresh juice (from 1 lemon) 1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, divided 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves, divided SEASON fish with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Cook fish, skin side down, until crisp and golden, about 6 minutes. Transfer to a plate and wipe skillet clean. Cook capers in 1 tablespoon oil over high, stirring often, until crispy, about 2 minutes. Drain on a paper towel. ADD garlic and 1 tablespoon oil to skillet over medium-high. Cook, stirring constantly, until garlic is golden, about 1 minute. Add tomatoes and cook until they start to burst, about 3 minutes. Stir in beans, stock, lemon zest and juice, half the parsley and basil, and remaining 2 tablespoons oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Nestle fish in sauce; simmer until fish flakes easily with a fork, about 3 minutes. Top with remaining parsley and basil. PER SERVING: 528 Calories, 20g Fat (3g Saturated), 83mg Cholesterol, 12g Fiber, 47g Protein, 40g Carbs, 1,279mg Sodium, 7g Sugar

P R E M I U M S AU C E C O L L E C T I O N

PA S S I O N M A K E S I T P E R F E C T. BARILLA M A K E S I T P E R F E T TO.

ST I R YO U R PA S S I O N

Reimagined premium flavors and textures as di ti

f It l th t i

i d th M A S T E R S O F PA S TA

FOOD

combine butter, cheese, garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper in a small bowl. Set aside. MEANWHILE,

2 lb. sweet potatoes, cut into 3/4-in. wedges 3 Tbsp. olive oil, divided

Easy Dinner 4

Parm-Butter Steak and Sweet Potato Fries ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 35 MINUTES SERVES 4

✓ Gluten-Free ✓ Family Friendly

122 REAL SIMPLE

1 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1 1/4 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper, divided 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (preferably grated on a Microplane) 1 clove garlic, grated 1 1/2 lb. hanger steak, trimmed 10 oz. fresh baby spinach oven to 450°F. Toss sweet potatoes, 2 tablespoons oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper on a rimmed baking sheet; spread in a single layer. Bake until browned and tender, about 30 minutes. PREHEAT

remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over mediumhigh. Season steak with remaining 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Cook, flipping once, until well browned and a thermometer inserted in thickest portion registers 135°F, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes. HEAT

spinach to skillet and cook, tossing constantly, until wilted, about 1 minute. Thinly slice steak against the grain and top with Parmesan butter. Serve with sweet potato fries and spinach. ADD

PER SERVING: 670 Calories, 39g Fat

(15g Saturated), 151mg Cholesterol, 7g Fiber, 44g Protein, 37g Carbs, 914mg Sodium, 7g Sugar

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FOOD

1 lb. dried pappardelle pasta 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter 2 medium leeks, thinly sliced (about 2 cups) 1 cup half-and-half 1 4-oz. log goat cheese, crumbled 1 1/2 cups frozen English peas 1/2 tsp. kosher salt 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided 2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh chives 1 tsp. lemon zest (from 1 lemon) COOK pasta in a large pot of generously salted water according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1 cup pasta water. Set aside.

butter in a large skillet over medium. Add leeks and cook, stirring often, until very soft, about 4 minutes. Add half-andhalf and cheese; cook, stirring constantly, until melted and thickened, 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in peas, salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cook, stirring often, until peas are bright green and tender, about 1 minute. MELT

Easy Dinner 5

Creamy Pappardelle Primavera ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 20 MINUTES SERVES 4

✓ Quick Cooking ✓ Vegetarian ✓ Family Friendly

124 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

pasta and 1/2 cup pasta water to skillet, stirring gently, until sauce thickens, about 1 minute. Add remaining 1/2 cup pasta water, if needed, to loosen sauce. Top with chives, lemon zest, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper. ADD

PER SERVING: 741 Calories, 24g Fat (14g Saturated), 119mg Cholesterol, 7g Fiber, 28g Protein, 99g Carbs, 523mg Sodium, 9g Sugar

FOOD

B e t t e r f o r Yo u

Eggplant-Mushroom “Meatballs” FA S T, H E A LT H Y, A N D F U L L O F F L AV O R By Ananda Eidelstein

ACTIVE TIME 25 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 50 MINUTES SERVES 4

1 small eggplant, chopped (4 1/2 cups) 8 oz. cremini mushrooms, trimmed and chopped (3 cups) 1 shallot, quartered 1 clove garlic, smashed 3 Tbsp. olive oil, divided 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided Freshly ground black pepper 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats 3/4 cup cooked brown rice, at room temperature

oven to 450°F. Toss eggplant, mushrooms, shallot, garlic, 2 tablespoons oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper on a large baking sheet; spread in an even layer. Roast until softened and golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes, stirring mixture and rotating baking sheet halfway through. Let cool for 10 minutes. PREHEAT

oats in a food processor until consistency of sand, about 20 seconds. Add cooled eggplant mixture, rice, parsley, PULSE

and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Pulse until well incorporated, about 15 pulses (mixture will be sticky). Roll into 16 pieces about the size of golf balls. remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add balls; cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, 8 to 10 minutes. Serve on salads, bowls, or subs, or with marinara, tahini, or seasoned Greek yogurt. HEAT

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

3 Tbsp. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves

Freeze these for up to 2 months.

Find more of our healthy vegetarian dishes at realsimple .com/betterforyou.

126 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

Photograph by Jennifer Causey

FOOD

R o a d Te s t

Dip It Good BEST SPINACH

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128 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

BEST ONION

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FOOD

Big Batch

Make-Ahead Oatmeal Peanut Butter Bars T H E S E F I L L I N G D E L I G H T S C O M E T O G E T H E R E A S I LY A N D K E E P F O R D AY S . E N J OY T H E M F O R B R E A K FA S T O R A N A F T E R N O O N S N A C K . By D awn Perr y

ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 3 HOURS, 20 MINUTES MAKES 32 BARS

2 cups peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter, preferably natural 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter 1 cup honey or pure maple syrup 1 tsp. kosher salt 4 cups uncooked oldfashioned rolled oats

1 cup dried cherries, raisins, or chopped dates (optional) a 13-by-9-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Cook peanut butter, butter, honey, and salt in a large pot over medium, whisking occasionally, until butter melts and mixture is smooth, 5 to 6 minutes. LINE

from heat and fold in oats. Fold in peanuts and cherries, if using. Press mixture evenly into prepared dish. Chill until firm, about 3 hours. Remove from dish and cut into 32 bars. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week. REMOVE

130 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

Photograph by Jennifer Causey

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

1 cup cocktail peanuts or chopped toasted almonds (optional)

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132 RE AL SIMPLE MARCH 2020

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Find your Away

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