RS - Jan/Feb 2022 by Lawrence Ambrocio

INDOOR PL ANTS T H AT THRIVE

LIFE MADE EASIER

Inside: Eat, Move, and Sleep Your Way to a Balanced New Year

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022

Refreshing + Healthy

% *

™

™ ™

REFRESHING + HE ALTHY

FO O D ST Y L I N G BY SU E L I FO R H E L LO A RT I STS

J A N UA R Y / F E B R UA R Y

“Eating well gives a spectacular joy to life.” E L S A S C H I A PA R E L L I , S H O C K I N G L I F E

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

JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022 R E A L S I M P L E

JA N UA RY/FEB RUA RY

REFRESHING + HE ALTHY

CONTENTS O N T H E C OV E R

35, 6 0 , 96 Eat, Move, and Sleep Your Way to a Balanced New Year 1 0 4 Indoor Plants That Thrive

104 90

104

THE TIME OF YO U R L I F E

A DELICIOUS REBAL ANCE

PA R E N T I N G A P L A N T B A BY

Make your days more meaningful by prioritizing what matters to you

Healthy eating strategies and recipes to boost your energy and mood

Cultivate a lush indoor landscape with our easy advice on nurturing greenery

Cover Photograph by Greg DuPree 2 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Food St yling by Ali Ramee

Prop St yling by Audrey Davis

Credit approval required. Terms apply. See capitalone.com for details.

JA N UA RY/FEB RUA RY

REFRESHING + HE ALTHY

CONTENTS delights

lives guides

1 5 We’re Loving Furnish a cozy reading corner

3 3 Simple Twist The right bra to wear under a white T-shirt

1 8 The Books List

Some favorite new releases for every literary taste

35 Healthy at Home An A-to-Z guide to protecting your heart

20 Clever Items Kitchen helpers to make your life easier

4 2 Money

Daily habits that can enhance well-being

7 2 Modern Manners Unstinting etiquette advice from Catherine Newman

74 One-and-

Handle fraught financial talks with your partner

Done Travel Palm Springs offers art, adventure, and relaxation

Fuss-free serums and more brilliant buys

4 6 Things Cooks Know

78 The Helpful Mind

All about whole grains

2 4 Sweet Stuff

4 8 Road Test: Food

Can being neat and diligent help you live longer?

Frozen strawberry trifle

Vegetarian meat that tastes like the real thing

2 2 Genius Beauty

2 7 We Found It! The ultimate classic and comfy jean jacket

50 Spotless

28 Space of the Month A rainbow color scheme brightens a home office

30 My Simple Realization

70 5 Perspectives

Surprising stuff you can clean in the dishwasher

52 Pets Tips for choosing, buying, and administering meds

5 4 Family

A father and daughter cherish their quiet bond

Plan a vacation that everyone will enjoy

58 10-Minute Organizer Streamline your trash area

6 0 Snoozefest 2022 Restorative techniques and tools for sounder sleep

82 We Did It How three women tackled health issues—and the medical bills

8 6 First Person Buoyed by her family, Nina LaCour finds joy in a new musical hobby

food 1 1 1 In Season Juicy grapefruit is a wintertime pick-me-up

1 1 2 Easy Dinners Fresh, family-friendly meals

1 1 8 Better for You Polenta in tomato sauce

6 6 Beauty Pro treatments that save time and effort

6 Editor’s Note

1 0 REAL SIMPLE Everywhere

1 2 Your Words

4 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

1 20 Who Knew?

REAL SIMPLE (ISSN 1528-1701) (JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2022) (VOLUME 23/ISSUE 1) IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY EXCEPT FOR A COMBINED ISSUE IN JANUARY/FEBRUARY BY TI GOTHAM INC. TI GOTHAM INC. IS A WHOLLY OWNED SUBSIDIARY OF MEREDITH OPERATIONS 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.

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EDITOR’S NOTE

I want less. Less food, less spending, fewer commitments on the calendar, a break from cocktails—while breaking out the Crockpot. I crave quieter exercise (solitary walks in the snow, anyone?) and slower books, the kind of novels with such lovely writing I linger over sentences and pause to appreciate allusions. I’ve also started doing something called cocooning. I ﬁrst learned about it at the Sensei wellness retreat in Hawaii (which I wrote about in our September 2021 issue). During biofeedback sessions at Sensei, I saw—right there on a little readout—what happened to me physically when I altered what I was doing mentally. So to make deep breathing, meditation, and self-compassion part of my rouFTER THE HOLIDAYS,

6 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

tine, I began pulling my sedan into the gravel parking lot of a nature preserve on the drive home from the strength-training sessions I do three mornings a week. I turn off the engine, kick the seat back, and listen to a meditation. A soft voice bounces off the padded walls of the car as it guides me toward gratitude, calm, my best self—whatever the pick of the day is. I feel safe, enveloped in the womb of my car, gazing at a small pond backed by a forest, usually with a fresh coffee in the cup holder beside me. The coziness is multisensory. I don’t know if it’s the leftover endorphins from my workout, the buzz in my muscles from lifting, or the incomprehensible beauty of watching a forest transition from adolescent August to vibrant autumn to the taupes and grays of winter. It’s probably all of it. But these 15-to-30-minute sessions are touchstones in my week. I drive away feeling calm, content, and grateful, which is a solid way to start any day, no matter what it holds. (For other ideas to feel good daily, see “Next-Level Habits That Will Improve Your Life,” page 70.) And with that, I welcome winter and wish you peace during this, the season of pause. Cue the calm.

LET’S CONNECT!

Follow me on Instagram at @LizVaccariello.

Photograph by Ari Michelson

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

The Single Change That Has Made My Life Better

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Call 877.287.7488 for information or for your free visitor’s guide

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EDITOR IN CHIEF

“Read many novels.”

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

E D I TO R I A L FE ATURES DIRECTOR Amy Maclin FE ATURES EDITOR Brandi Broxson SENIOR EDITOR Rachel Sylvester A SSO CIATE EDITOR Martha Upton EDITORIAL A SSISTANT Teddy Willson CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Kristyn Kusek Lewis (books), Catherine Newman

“Roller-skating, wine, friends. Sometimes all at the same time!”

FO OD FO OD DIRECTOR Jenna Helwig SENIOR FO OD EDITOR Lizzy Briskin

B E AU T Y BE AUT Y DIRECTOR Heather Muir Maffei DEPUT Y BE AUT Y DIRECTOR Lisa DeSantis A SSISTANT BE AUT Y EDITOR Anneke Knot

HOME HOME DIRECTOR Erica Finamore SENIOR HOME EDITOR Leslie Corona CONTRIBUTING HOME EDITOR Cat Dash

FA S H I O N A SSO CIATE FA SHION EDITOR Flavia Nunez

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

“Eat. The. Cake.”

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 COPY & RESE ARCH CHIEF Jenny Brown CONTRIBUTING SENIOR RESE ARCH EDITOR

Maya Kukes

R E A L S I M P L E .C O M DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR Mickey O’Connor DEPUT Y EDITOR Jennifer Davidson SENIOR EDITOR, HOME Katie Holdefehr SENIOR EDITOR, FO OD Samantha Leffler HE ALTH & WELLNESS EDITOR Maggie Seaver BE AUT Y & FA SHION EDITOR Hana Hong A SSO CIATE EDITOR Morgan Noll SO CIAL MEDIA EDITOR Hali Potters PHOTO MANAGER Olivia Barr EXECUTIVE VIDEO PRODUCER Allie Merriam SENIOR VIDEO PRODUCER Jennifer Lomeli NEWS VIDEO PRODUCER Amy Frank

“Indulgent, guilt-free, and (sometimes) speedy.”

Daren Mazzucca 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 E A STERN ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Lizzie Meier Utt INTEGR ATED ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Susan Schwartzman INTEGR ATED ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Haley Carter A SSO CIATE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Alexia Vicario ACCOUNT DIRECTOR, NEW ENGL AND Jennifer Palmer (WNP Media) ADVERTISING SALES A SSISTANT Hayley Solomon

MIDWEST

“Early-morning workouts.”

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 MARKETING DIRECTOR Allison Kelly ART DIRECTOR Sarah Massimo SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER Misty Chandler MARKETING CO ORDINATOR Lindsey Weiss SENIOR PUBLICIT Y MANAGER Kari Stephenson PR CO ORDINATOR Katie Holzman

C O N T E N T, S T R AT EGY & I N S I G H T S VICE PRESIDENT Andy Borinstein DIRECTORS Karen Bakos, Emily Fleishman SENIOR MANAGER Kseniya Ivnitskaya MANAGER Maura Ruane

“Nightly face masks.”

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 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

D I G I TA L SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, CONTENT STR ATEGY & OPER ATIONS

Melissa Inman SENIOR DIRECTOR, CONTENT STR ATEGY Heather Morgan Shott GENER AL MANAGER, HOME Allie Giordano CRE ATIVE DIRECTOR Julia Bohan E-COMMERCE EDITORIAL LE AD Chloe Reznikov SENIOR AUDIENCE RETENTION MANAGER Kelly Lage

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 Catherine Levene PRESIDENT, CONSUMER PRODUCTS Tom Witschi PRESIDENT, MEREDITH DIGITAL Alysia Borsa EVP, STR ATEGIC & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Daphne Kwon

E X EC U T I V E V I C E P R E S I D E N T S

“Everything in moderation.”

CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER Michael Brownstein DIGITAL SALES Marla Newman FINANCE Michael Riggs MARKETING & INTEGR ATED COMMUNIC ATIONS Nancy Weber

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENTS CONSUMER MARKETING Steve Crowe CONSUMER REVENUE Andy Wilson CORP OR ATE SALES Brian Kightlinger FOUNDRY 360 Matt Petersen PRODUCT & TECHNOLO GY Justin Law RESE ARCH SOLUTIONS Britta Cleveland STR ATEGIC PL ANNING Amy Thind STR ATEGIC SOURCING, NEWSSTAND, PRODUCTION Chuck Howell

VICE PRESIDENTS BR AND LICENSING Toye Cody, Sondra Newkirk BUSINESS PL ANNING & ANALYSIS Rob Silverstone CORP OR ATE BE AUT Y Ahu Terzi FINANCE Chris Susil STR ATEGIC DEVELOPMENT Kelsey Andersen STR ATEGIC PARTNERSHIP S Alicia Cervini VICE PRESIDENT, GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Liz Vaccariello CHIEF DIGITAL CONTENT OFFICER Amanda Dameron 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 CHAIRMAN & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Tom Harty CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Jason Frierott CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER John Zieser PRESIDENT, MEREDITH LO C AL MEDIA GROUP Patrick McCreery SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, HUMAN RESOURCES Dina Nathanson SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, CHIEF COMMUNIC ATIONS OFFICER Erica Jensen VICE CHAIRMAN Mell Meredith Frazier

8 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

I L L U S T R AT I O N S B Y C L A R E O W E N

Liz Vaccariello

Describe your self-care routine in three words.

REAL SIMPLE Everywhere Find Exclusive Ideas, Tips, and Ways to Make Life Easier—Every Day

BEHIND THE SCENES

Athena Valentine

IN YOUR WALLE T

FOUNDER OF THE BLO G MONEY S M A RT L AT I N A

@moneysmartlatina Daily uniform: Anything black (likely covered in fur from my cat, Harrison George). Personal motto: I love affirmations. My current one is “I’m doing the best I can, and that’s OK.” Favorite space in your home: A Stephen King– inspired reading nook. Get tips from Athena’s real-life money story on page 44.

ON THE WEB

So Many Great Valentine’s Day Presents On February 14, show your partner how much you appreciate them with one (or two, or three) of our editor-approved gifts under $50. Whether your honey covets a candle or a waffle iron, you’ll find something that hits the spot at realsimple.com/howsweet.

ON VIDEO

Our Spotless IGTV Series As you scroll through your Instagram feed, brush up on the best cleaning hacks with our new videos. If you have an oil or red wine stain, we have a solution. Follow along at @real_simple.

10 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

REAL SIMPLE readers score 20 percent off the Jambys pajamas on page 65. Get a sitewide discount at jambys.com by using the code REAL20 at checkout. Offer valid from 1/15/22 to 3/1/22.

IN STORES

Cleaners by REAL SIMPLE We partnered with the Container Store to bring you a line of multipurpose cleaners that cut through grease, grime, and soap scum. Shop the scented collection in stores or at realsimple.com/cleanup.

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 AT H E N A VA L E N T I N E ; A D D I E J U E L L ; C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U FA C T U R E R ( 2 )

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YOUR WORDS

What Have You Always Suspected You Could Do, but Are Too Nervous to Try?

Combine my love of coffee, community, and books to open a neighborhood sip-and-read shop.

Do a cartwheel. I am now 76 years old, so I am sure that my opportunity to do so has passed.

Play the drums. If my air-drumming skills are anything to go by, I’d be a natural.

JOANN FRIEDMAN, PHOENIX

KELSEY BABINEAU, WESTFORD, MASSACHUSETTS

K AT H Y M O RGA N , H E R S H E Y, P E N N SY LVA N I A

#RSLOVE

Grow my floral design business, but I did it. At first, entrusting my brand to a hired staff was hard, but their work has taken this business to the next level. I’m so grateful for my wonderful team.

Make fresh pasta. I bought a fancy pasta maker that has stayed in my cabinet for years, never once used! RENEÉ SADDLER, KNIGHTDALE, NORTH CAROLINA

@ W I L L I A M S _ F LO R I ST

Sculpt, because I’m great at carving pumpkins. @NVANDELDEN

Teach step aerobics. I fantasize about my playlist, make up moves in my head, and think about how fun it would be to motivate people to exercise with me. MICHELE PISTONE, WHEELING, ILLINOIS

Woodworking. I can paint anything, I can lay tile and even do mosaics, but I’ve always shied away from electric saws. KATE DELOACH, FRANKLIN, NORTH CAROLINA

Win a food-eating contest! @KATHERINESWAGGER

For sharing this photo with us, @williams_florist will receive our special edition, The Power of Less. If you want your picture to be considered, tag photos on Instagram with #rslove.

12 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Do a TED talk about what it’s like being the mom of a child in the LGBTQ community, and an educator who advocates for all students. MELISSA FIKE, ERIE, COLORADO

Be a burlesque dancer. Trying tomorrow! @LESLEYGAINES

Write a children’s book that would inspire just one child, or perhaps many more. KAREN REMIS, TOPSHAM, MAINE

Write a quippyenough answer to appear on the Your Words page. And host a talk show, because I love hearing people’s stories. Let’s start with number one, shall we?

Be a painter...without the numbers. @ABRASEVICTONEY

Go parasailing. But I’m petrified of being in the air, looking down, and seeing Jaws. AMY BRAGAGNINI, GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN

Do voice-overs for cartoons, movies, and commercials. I’ve thought about taking a class at our local college, but I just haven’t gone there—yet! GAIL MONTALTO, BUFFALO GROVE, ILLINOIS

HEIDI WHITLOW, SHELBYVILLE, KENTUCKY

I’ve always wanted to sell my artwork in a coffee shop. I end up giving my paintings as gifts instead. I’m still nervous about putting a price on my work. @DANACARLSON01

I have a feeling I could do stand-up comedy. I was voted Most Humorous Girl in eighth grade, and middle schoolers really know things.

I always dreamed of being a singer but thought I couldn’t pull it off. Then, for my 40th birthday, after battling breast cancer, I decided to take singing lessons and throw a concert. Not only did I throw that concert, but I’ve been singing with classic-rock cover bands for the past 10 years! PAULA NEWMAN, TENAFLY, NEW JERSEY

C O U RT ESY O F A M A N DA G O O DW I N

LORA THOMPSON CLARK, BAINBRIDGE ISLAND, WASHINGTON

READER OF THE MONTH

Amanda Goodwin, 35 DIETITIAN AND STAY-AT- H O M E M O M C H E R RY H I L L , N E W J E R S E Y

What have you always suspected you could do, but are too nervous to try? Be a singer, writer, actor, interior designer—some sort of creator. I have many interests! The most organized part of your life: The family calendar and planner. I can’t function if our activities aren’t in a designated place. What would you sing at karaoke night? It depends on the crowd and my mood. “How Do I Live” by LeAnn Rimes, or something else from the ’90s, like Britney Spears. What’s your favorite tradition? Apple picking every fall with my husband and two kids. The simplest part of your life: Our mobile dog groomer! It makes such a difference not to have to get the kids and the dog in and out of the car to drop her off—just to do it again a few hours later to pick her up. It isn’t even more expensive, so it’s a no-brainer.

NEXT QUESTION

What mantra did your mother repeat throughout your childhood? Send an email to yourwords@realsimple.com to answer. Your response could appear on these pages.

JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022 R E A L S I M P L E

FULL OF LOVELY 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

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DELIGHTS WE’RE LOVING

Reading Room Revamp C re a te a c o mf y n o o k th a t ’s p e r fe c t fo r d i s a p p e a r i n g i nto a p a g e - t u r n e r.

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

BY C AT DA S H

IN PRINT

Kick your feet up on this pretty pouf (available in 65 patterns!)—or top it with a tray to make it a side table for your spot of tea. TO BUY: Minted for West Elm Drum Ottoman, $249; westelm.com.

Photograph by Br yan Gardner

JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022 R E A L S I M P L E

DELIGHTS

1 3

1 ACCENT DECOR

2 B E A M YO U U P

The flexible neck of this sleek floor lamp lets you aim light exactly where you need it (just like the detective in your mystery!). TO BUY: Lissom Floor Lamp, $149; article.com.

16 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

5 R E A D E R ’ S C O M PA N I O N 3 L O U N G E AW H I L E

The deep seat and cushioning on this sustainably made chair will entice you to curl up. TO BUY: The Essential Chair, $645; sabai.design. 4 M O D E R N L I B R A RY

This color-block artwork is a fresh way to celebrate your favorite pastime. TO BUY: Color Books 4 Artwork by Jessica Poundstone, from $20; artfullywalls.com.

Featuring a sentiment any bibliophile can get behind, it’s also handy for hot cocoa while you read. TO BUY: Books Are Magic Mug, $17; booksaremagic.net.

Flag pages you want to revisit with these thin metal markers. TO BUY: Brass Page Markers, $18 for 8; poketo.com.

6 P LU S H PA I R

8 C A R D C ATA L O G

Next time you grab your paperback, snuggle your feet into these fluffy, machine-washable slippers. TO BUY: Cozy Bootie, $59; parachute.com.

7 TOP BR A SS

Show off your knowledge of the classics—from Sense and Sensibility to To Kill a Mockingbird— with this 80-card game. TO BUY: Ridley’s Games Classic Book Trivia, $6; chroniclebooks.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

Go ahead and judge this intricately embroidered pillow by its cover. TO BUY: Read Embroidered Pillow, $80; riflepaperco.com.

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DELIGHTS

The Books List Top Picks for Every Taste BY K R I ST Y N KU S E K L E W I S

Timely Fiction

Witty Romance

A Boston women’s clinic is at the center of Mercy Street, the perceptive new novel by Jennifer Haigh. The story zooms in on the lives of everyday people in today’s America—a counselor at the clinic, the pot dealer who helps remedy her anxiety, a loner whose only true community is online, an antiabortion activist—and, in Haigh’s expert hands, explores how we arrive at the beliefs we hold.

Ursula Byrne is a successful, sharp New Yorker who learns about an exclusive matchmaking service that promises to find clients their perfect partner. Intrigued by the guarantee, she succumbs to the company’s intricate “assessments.” Funny and modern, The Arc by Tory Henwood Hoen is like a rom-com’s cooler big sister. It’s as much a satire as it is a romance, roasting our (perhaps misguided) reliance on high-tech solutions for matters of the heart.

Historical Fiction ThoughtProvoking Suspense

Family Story Don’t Cry for Me by Daniel Black is a novelin-letters told from the point of view of a Black father at the end of his life, writing to his gay son about how his own upbringing shaped his actions, for better or worse. This moving read, guaranteed to make you think about the older adults in your life, is an insightful peek into how the elderly might regard their place in a changing world.

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

Danya Kukafka’s Notes on an Execution is an intense thriller that reads like a mash-up of Law & Order and a college psych class. The fictional story of Ansel Packer, a serial killer on death row, is given a brilliant twist—it focuses on the women he affected, ultimately asking why we’re drawn to crime stories about violent men. Cleverly constructed and smart, this is the kind of book you finish with a big exhale.

Violeta, the latest novel by Isabel Allende, is the sweeping tale of Violeta Del Valle, a 100-year-old woman whose life is bookended by two pandemics: the Spanish flu and Covid-19. Her saga, written so vividly that it feels like an autobiography, is a testament to resilience and courage.

18 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Photograph by Br yan Gardner

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DELIGHTS

2 TOWER OF P OWER

So many coffee cups have handles that take up prime cabinet real estate. These chic stacking versions save space with raised grips. TO BUY: Confetti Cups, $22 each; areaware.com.

A W H I S K T H AT WA S H E S N I C E LY

The beaded tips help this tool beat eggs, mix marinade, and blend batter in a flash. A built-in slider cleans the tines. TO BUY: Breakfast Cleanable Whisk, $30; williams-sonoma.com.

3 SINK SIDEKICK

Clever Items Kitchen Helpers to Make Your Life Easier

Fill the holder with dish soap, then press your sponge on it to dispense the sudsy stuff. After the dishes are done, rest the sponge on the vented ledge for quick drying. TO BUY: Soap Dispensing Sponge Holder, $21; oxo.com.

4 W O RT H T H E W E I G H T

For evenly grilled fish or a fast sear on a steak, just plop this press on top. It helps the food maintain better contact with the grill or pan. TO BUY: Chef’s Press, from $14; thechefspress.com.

20 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

6 5 CHEESE WHIZ

Use the knife to cut soft cheese, like Brie, and the planer to slice semifirm cheese, like Cheddar. The fork tip moves the piece right onto your cracker, no fingers required. TO BUY: Cheese Knife, $17; pamperedchef.com.

C H E AT S H E E T

Berries: fridge or counter? Just check this adorably illustrated towel that features storage advice for 18 fruits and veggies, plus eggs. TO BUY: Food Market Tea Towel, $26; lanasshop.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 B R A N D I B ROXS O N

Certain trademarks used under license from the Procter & Gamble Company or its affiliates.

DELIGHTS

GENIUS BE AUT Y

No-Brainer Face Care P l u s f i ve oth e r b e a u t y b u ys to s i m p l i f y yo u r ro u t i n e BY H E AT H E R M U I R M A F F E I

I’m a seasoned beauty editor, and the crowded skin-care shelves make even my head spin (what do all those labels mean again?). So when I found the easy-to-navigate line Facile, I had to share. Just pick your skin concern—acne, aging, pigmentation, or sensitivity—and rub in a few drops of the serum after cleansing and before moisturizing, morning and night. Cheers to fewer bells and whistles, and more getting the job done.

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

The key ingredients in each formula are printed smack-dab on the front of the bottle.

Super Skin Serums in Brighten, Clear, Reverse, and Destress, $38 each; facileskin.com.

TO BUY:

22 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Photograph by Br yan Gardner

1 THINNING-HAIR HELP

After I gave birth, my luscious hair turned almost see-through. This rich pressed powder filled in my patchy temples and boosted my confidence. Its sheen mimics the look of real strands, and it has ingredients that nourish wild baby hairs. TO BUY: Can’t Stop Me Now Ultimate Coverage Scalp Foundation, $60; mecosmetics.com.

2 PERFECTED PORE STRIP

Unclogging my blackhead-prone nose once involved squeezing and strips that ripped off like duct tape. With these clear, flexible stickers that draw out dirt overnight, it’s now a piece of cake. TO BUY: Hero Cosmetics Mighty Patch Nose, $18 for 10; target.com.

3 PERSONAL TR AINER FOR NAIL S

After almost two years of nonstop handwashing and sanitizing, my nails were literally at their breaking point. This conditioning treatment creates bonds to lock in moisture and increase flexibility. I swipe on two coats, then let my nails rejuvenate for a few days before I polish. TO BUY: Glow and Shine Hard to Resist Nail Strengthener, $10; essie.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

G O O D -T O -T H E L A S T- D RO P L O T I O N

This bottle stands upright on a counter, but the plastic is so soft, I can roll it to squeeze out every last bit of the soothing lotion. I no longer have to cut open my container (a trick my dad taught me!). TO BUY: Nivea Nourish by Nature Body Lotion, $6; walmart.com.

5 T H E K I T T H AT T O O K M Y B RO W S F RO M W I M P Y T O W O W

This left my skin baby-smooth, thanks to botanicals for daaays.

This pinkie-size palette packs two brow powders (so you can customize color), a mini mirror, an angled brush, and a spoolie. My favorite detail: The tools slide into the side instead of rolling around in my bag, so they stay sanitary and I always know where to find them. TO BUY: Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez Brow Harmony Shape & Fill Duo, $24; sephora.com.

JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022 R E A L S I M P L E

DELIGHTS

SWEET STUFF

F R O Z E N S T R AW B E R RY TRIFLE C o n s i d e r i n g h ow e a s i l y th i s s i x- i n g re d i e nt d e ss e r t c o m e s to g eth e r, i t l o o ks w a y m o re i m p re ss i ve th a n i t h a s a ny r i g ht to . BY A N N A T H EO K T I STO

ACTIVE TIME 25 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 4 HOURS, 45 MINUTES (INCLUDES 4 HOURS FREEZING) SERVES 8

8 oz. frozen strawberries, thawed, finely chopped (about 1 cup) 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, divided 1 1/4 cups heavy cream 12 ladyfingers (about half a 7-oz. pkg.) 1 pt. strawberry or vanilla ice cream, softened Fresh strawberries, halved lengthwise, for serving (optional) stir together chopped strawberries and 1/2 cup sugar in a medium bowl. Let stand until strawberries release their juices, about 10 minutes. GENTLY

heavy cream and remaining 1/2 cup sugar in a large bowl with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form, about 2 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer chopped strawberries to whipped cream, reserving any strawberry juice in bowl. BEAT

an 8 1/2-by-4 1/2-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, letting excess hang over sides. Spoon 1 1/4 cups whipped cream mixture into pan; smooth top. Dip 6 ladyfingers in strawberry juice and arrange in an even layer on top of whipped cream mixture, trimming cookies if necessary. Spread ice cream over ladyfingers. Repeat with remaining 6 ladyfingers. Top with remaining whipped cream mixture. Cover and freeze until firm, at least 4 hours and up to 2 weeks. stand at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving. Transfer trifle to a serving platter. Top with fresh strawberries, if using. LET

24 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Photograph by Caitlin Bensel

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

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DELIGHTS

WE FOUND IT!

A Jean Jacket to Live In BY E M I LY K E H E REAL SIMPLE Creative Director

For about 10 months of the year, I wear a jean jacket almost every day. It’s my go-to commuter coat, my office layer (the AC can be arctic!), the thing I shrug on for school drop-off, then again for evenings out. As such, I need to get it right—and the Bailey by Able ticks all my many boxes. It has a classic fit that hits right at my hips (cropped and “shacket” lengths are too trendy for something I’ll wear for ages), the cotton feels soft from the get-go, and the color is the perfect light indigo, which looks naturally, not chemically, broken in. The company that makes it is pretty cool too: Able uses eco-friendly fabrics and pays employees fair wages.

The Bailey Classic Jacket, $150; livefashionable.com.

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

TO BUY:

Deep interior pockets secure my phone and cards without adding bulk. Smaller, angled exterior pockets are flattering and hold my keys (and warm my hands, of course).

Photograph by Brian Henn

JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022 R E A L S I M P L E

S PA C E O F T H E M O N T H

Rainbow Room A home of fice with che er y hue s radiate s happine ss. BY L E S L I E CO RO N A

28 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

DELIGHTS

Get the Look B E C R E AT I V E W I T H A RT

A multicolor calendar that fills an entire wall can function as art, a Zoom background, or wallpaper (though much easier to hang). “I put sticky notes on it instead of writing on it, so I can reuse it year after year,” Brittany says.

Meet the Owner

C O U R T E S Y O F T H E H O U S E T H AT L A R S B U I LT ( 2 ) ; 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

B R I T TA N Y WAT S O N J E P S E N

A hint of warm yellow helps white paint feel less austere.

When Brittany was decorating her work space, she knew she wanted it to reflect the clean, colorful aesthetic of her lifestyle blog, The House That Lars Built. She also knew she didn’t want to spend a fortune; her family had just moved into their new home in Provo, Utah, and other rooms were hitting her budget hard. Sure enough, the inspiration for the entire office was a $48 Poketo calendar, which she rounded out with other rainbow accents.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Brittany went with white walls (we like the shade Pale Bloom by Valspar) because everything else in the room has so much color. P I C K P L AY F U L L I G H T S

A floral brass light fixture gives the room more character and offsets the rectangular design of the calendar and striped rug. S T R AT E G I Z E S E AT I N G

Even though it’s her home office, Brittany wanted comfortable seating for visitors. A striped armchair serves as the guest chair at her desk. She can reorient it toward the sofa to create a sitting area when she’s off the clock. TO B U Y: Spectrum Wall

This stylish sofa is really a futon —perfect for overnight guests or an afternoon nap.

Planner, $48; poketo.com. Mr. Kate Effie Upholstered Accent Chair, $230; amazon.com. Handwoven Maximus Rug, $698 (5 by 8 ft.); anthropologie .com. Small Pitcher, $95; pomelocasa.com. Lush Velvet Pillow Covers, from $33; westelm.com. Mr. Kate Stella Convertible Sofa Bed, $570; homedepot.com.

JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022 R E A L S I M P L E

DELIGHTS

MY SIMPLE RE ALIZ ATION

“It’s OK Not to Talk” Fa c e d w i th h e r fa th e r ’s fa i l i n g h e a l th , J E N N Y B R O W N l e a r n e d s i l e n c e i s a l ove l a n g u a g e a l l i t s ow n .

my homework and was lingering, bored, around the house, I’d ask my dad to take me to Barnes & Noble. He’d always say yes, and we’d get on our coats and head to the Volvo in the driveway. That eight-minute drive would embarrass both of us, because we never had anything to say to each other. Or rather, we both had a lot to say but never knew how to start talking. My dad’s gloves would brush against the steering wheel, and I’d hear him inhale, as if about to speak, and then fall silent. I’d flick on the radio, annoyed he didn’t know how to drag me out of myself like my mother did. In the store, we’d part instantly like two fish swimming toward different food sources, then meet up again at checkout to compare our finds—my A Night Without Armor by Jewel, his Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond. Back in the car, I’d turn on the radio right away. We wouldn’t say much, but we’d enjoy the music, separately, together.

30 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

That was me and my dad. If opposites attract, we were the tension you feel when you hold the same magnetic poles against each other. My mom and sister were charming performers, friends with everyone; my father and I forgot people’s names and wanted to be alone. In him I saw myself: shy, awkward, and above all, “quiet”— the word so often used to describe me, which to me meant “boring.” Twenty years and a degree in literature later, I was in my parents’ kitchen, unloading the dishwasher with shaky hands. My father had entered hospice and asked that I come visit. “What do I do?” I asked my mother. “Am I supposed to say something?” “I don’t know,” she said. My father didn’t seem to know either. When the nurse gave him his medicine, he’d hold my hand but close his eyes and stay silent. At night, after the pain and the morphine, he’d stumble to his room, reciting lines from “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” and shooing away any demonstration of pity.

One night, steeled by wine, I decided to talk to my dad. I knew it was one of the last conversations we’d have, but I was as nervous as a teenager talking to a crush for the first time. “Dad, I want you to know I’ve always really loved you, even if it sometimes seemed—” “You don’t have to say it, Jenny,” he said, holding my hand as he nestled into his pillow. “Sometimes it’s OK not to talk.” My father had sensed my awkwardness; I felt disappointed and guilty. Even now, we’d be defined by the Failed Conversation. But as he closed his eyes and his weak hand gripped mine a little harder, tingles shot up through my forearm. I was filled with an energy that flowed from my dad’s hand into me and back into him. Wordless, beautiful, and strange, it felt like love. JENNY BROWN IS THE COPY AND RESEARCH CHIEF AT REAL SIMPLE.

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

WHEN I FINISHED

GET AHEAD OF ECZEMA AND SHOW MORE SKIN DUPIXENT is a breakthrough eczema treatment that targets a key source of inflammation that can lead to uncontrolled moderate-to-severe eczema (atopic dermatitis). Approved for ages 6 years and up.

Fast itch relief* Clearer skin that lasts* Not an immunosuppressant Not a cream or steroid *In a clinical trial at week 16, 59% of adults taking DUPIXENT + topical corticosteroids (TCS) had significantly less itch vs 20% on TCS only; 39% saw clear or almost clear skin vs 12% on TCS only. 36% saw clear or almost clear skin at week 52 vs 13% on TCS only.

CELISA, REAL PATIENT Individual results may vary.

TALK TO YOUR ECZEMA SPECIALIST AND GO TO DUPIXENT.COM TO FIND OUT MORE INDICATION

Tell your healthcare provider about all the DUPIXENT is a prescription medicine used medicines you take, including prescription to treat people aged 6 years and older with and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) herbal supplements. that is not well controlled with prescription Especially tell your healthcare provider if you therapies used on the skin (topical), or who are taking oral, topical or inhaled corticosteroid cannot use topical therapies. DUPIXENT can medicines or if you have atopic dermatitis and be used with or without topical corticosteroids. asthma and use an asthma medicine. Do not It is not known if DUPIXENT is safe and change or stop your corticosteroid medicine or effective in children with atopic dermatitis under other asthma medicine without talking to your healthcare provider. This may cause other symptoms 6 years of age. that were controlled by the corticosteroid IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION medicine or other asthma medicine to come back. Do not use if you are allergic to dupilumab or DUPIXENT can cause serious to any of the ingredients in DUPIXENT®. side effects, including: Before using DUPIXENT, tell your healthcare Allergic reactions (hypersensitivity), including provider about all your medical conditions, a severe reaction known as anaphylaxis. Stop including if you: have eye problems; have a using DUPIXENT and tell your healthcare provider parasitic (helminth) infection; are scheduled to or get emergency help right away if you get any receive any vaccinations. You should not receive a of the following symptoms: breathing problems, “live vaccine” if you are treated with DUPIXENT; fever, general ill feeling, swollen lymph nodes, are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not swelling of the face, mouth and tongue, hives, known whether DUPIXENT will harm your unborn itching, fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded baby. There is a pregnancy exposure registry for (low blood pressure), joint pain, or skin rash. women who take DUPIXENT during pregnancy to collect information about the health of you and Eye problems. Tell your healthcare provider if your baby. Your healthcare provider can enroll you have any new or worsening eye problems, you or you may enroll yourself. To get more including eye pain or changes in vision. information about the registry call 1-877-311-8972 The most common side effects in patients or go to https://mothertobaby.org/ongoing- with atopic dermatitis include injection site study/dupixent/; are breastfeeding or plan to reactions, eye and eyelid inflammation, including breastfeed. It is not known whether DUPIXENT redness, swelling, and itching, and cold sores passes into your breast milk. in your mouth or on your lips.

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. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged 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. Your healthcare provider will tell you how much DUPIXENT to inject and how often to inject it. 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. In children younger than 12 years of age, DUPIXENT should be given by a caregiver. Please see Brief Summary on next page.

YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR AS LITTLE AS A $0 COPAY.* CALL 1-844-DUPIXENT (1-844-387-4936) *THIS IS NOT INSURANCE. Not valid for prescriptions paid, in whole or in part, by Medicaid, Medicare, VA, DOD, TRICARE, or other federal or state

programs, including any state pharmaceutical assistance programs. Program has an annual maximum of $13,000. Additional terms and conditions apply.

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 6 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 6 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 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 Exposure Registry. There is a pregnancy exposure registry for women who take DUPIXENT during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. Your healthcare provider can enroll you in this registry. You may also enroll yourself or get more information about the registry by calling 1 877 311-8972 or going to https://mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/dupixent/. • 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. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you: • are taking oral, topical, or inhaled corticosteroid medicines • have atopic dermatitis and asthma and use an asthma medicine Do not change or stop your corticosteroid medicine or other asthma medicine without talking to your healthcare provider. This may cause other symptoms that were controlled by the corticosteroid medicine or other asthma medicine to come back. 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 and pre-filled pens. • Use DUPIXENT exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. • Your healthcare provider will tell you how much DUPIXENT to inject and how often to inject it. • DUPIXENT comes as a single-dose pre-filled syringe with needle shield or as a pre-filled pen. • 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. In children younger than 12 years of age, DUPIXENT should be given by a caregiver.

• If your dose schedule is every other week and you miss a dose of DUPIXENT: Give the DUPIXENT injection within 7 days from the missed dose, then continue with your original schedule. If the missed dose is not given within 7 days, wait until the next scheduled dose to give your DUPIXENT injection. • If your dose schedule is every 4 weeks and you miss a dose of DUPIXENT: Give the DUPIXENT injection within 7 days from the missed dose, then continue with your original schedule. If the missed dose is not given within 7 days, start a new every 4 week dose schedule from the time you remember to take 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 in patients with atopic dermatitis include: injection site reactions, eye and eyelid inflammation, including redness, swelling and itching, and cold sores in your mouth or on your lips. The following additional side effects have been reported with DUPIXENT: facial rash or redness. 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 brief 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 / ©2021 Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. / sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC. All rights reserved. Issue Date: January 2021

DUP.21.03.0281

DISHWASHER HACKS

F U N FA M I LY T R I P S

SLEEP GEAR THAT WORKS

GUIDES

SIMPLE TWIST

A T-Shirt and Bra Matchup Now that you’ve found the perfect white T-shirt (after a million years of searching), you need the right bra to wear under it. While a nude shade might seem like the obvious choice, it could actually be—are you sitting down?—a red one that will look invisible. “Red’s warm hue blends with your skin’s natural undertones,” says Sarah Sullivan, creative director for Lively, a lingerie and athleisure brand. Those with fair skin should go for a true red, she says, while olive and darker tones work well with purple-reds and plums. Your bra drawer will finally look a little less blah. —Martha Upton

Photograph by Brian Henn

JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022 R E A L S I M P L E

l e i d c i g o n u i r s

B b r e a k fast t i m o e! t

fun

TRY TODAY!

Toppings added as serving suggestion

Fresh fruit added as a topping suggestion

scan to learn more

GUIDES

A ASPIRIN For more than 30 years, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended taking a daily low dose of aspirin, because it serves as a blood thinner and has been linked to lower rates of heart disease (long the number one killer of women). But recently, the panel walked back that advice, due to the risk of internal bleeding, which gets higher as you age. Whether you’re just considering an aspirin regimen or you’ve been popping a daily pill for a while, talk with your doctor. If you’re 60 or over, the perks may not be worth it.

B H E A LT H Y AT H O M E

An Alphabet of Ways to Protect Your Heart Fo r a m o re re s i l i e nt t i c ke r, k i c k yo u r c a rd i o h e a l th u p a n otc h a n d fo l l ow th i s u p d a te d a d v i c e to th e l et te r. BY A M Y M AC L I N

Illustrations by Asia Pietrzyk

BO OZE “Alcohol can weaken the heart muscle,” says Akil Taher, MD, an internal medicine physician in Cadsen, Alabama, and author of Open Heart. “But red wine has antioxidants and polyphenols, so a daily five-ounce glass may have benefits.” (Bear in mind: Five ounces barely fills a small yogurt container.) Alternatively, Taher adds, you could simply chomp on red grapes.

JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022 R E A L S I M P L E

GUIDES

C COMMON R I S K FA C T O R S “When you control high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, poor eating habits, and being overweight, heart disease is preventable 80 percent of the time,” says Rachel Bond, MD, a cardiologist at Dignity Health in Gilbert, Arizona.

D DIABETES PREVENTION People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop heart disease. Lower your risk with the healthy lifestyle choices described here, and if you’re over 45, get a baseline A1C test to measure your average blood sugar levels.

H HEREDITY

F F RU I T S & V E G E TA B L E S What you put on your plate can prevent, and even reverse, heart disease. According to a recent study, young adults who ate more plant-based foods (fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes, and whole grains) lowered their risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure in middle age. In another study, people with moderate to severe heart disease who adopted a plantbased diet experienced less chest pain and improved blood flow, and after a year, even severely blocked arteries had reopened.

G GENDER

E E XERCISE “Everyone should do 30 minutes of moderate exercise five times a week,” says Taher, a self-professed former couch potato who became a marathoner after a heart bypass at age 61.

36 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Women’s heart attacks don’t always look or feel like the “classic” heart attack (clutching your chest after overexertion, à la Big on And Just Like That…). “Women may present with back pain, neck pain, jaw pain, shortness of breath, indigestion, dizziness, palpitations, or fatigue,” Bond says. “If you have any of these symptoms, especially if they’re ongoing, get medical advice immediately.”

A family history of heart disease doesn’t spell doom. “Genetics is only 10 to 20 percent of your health outcome—and that can be negated or mitigated by eating right and exercising,” Taher says. “If you have a family history of heart disease but don’t have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes, after 40 you should still get a regular coronary calcium scan, which gives us a picture of your arteries. And ask your doctor to measure your abdominal girth. Visceral obesity can be directly related to heart disease.”

I INSOMNIA Sleep deprivation triggers chronic inflammation, which contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries. A study of more than 400,000 people found strong associations between sleep problems and heart failure.

SET YOURSELF UP FOR A SUCCESSFUL YEAR BY CREATING AN ORGANIZED SPACE TO FOCUS ON YOUR MIND, BODY, AND SPIRIT. WHETHER IT’S

A DEDICATED ROOM OR THE 3

CORNER OF YOUR DEN, YOUR HOME GYM CAN BECOME AN OASIS OF CALM WITH HELP FROM COMMAND™ BRAND .

2 TRY THESE DIY PROJECTS 1 CREATE A MOTIVATION STATION Mount the Command™ Dry Erase Message Center to jot down inspirational quotes or ﬁtness goals. Bonus: You can hang smaller items, like hair elastics and headbands, on the bottom hooks.

ADD CALMING TOUCHES Give your space a zen-like feel by ﬁlling the Command™ Clear Large Caddy with greenery or your favorite post-yoga essential oils and lotions.

3 ORGANIZE YOUR EQUIPMENT Keep larger ﬁtness accessories, such as jump ropes, towels, and water bottles, tidy by hanging them on Command™ Large Brushed Nickel Double Hooks.

Scan the code with your phone for step-by-step instructions and visit command.com for helpful products that can be applied easily and removed damage-free.

GUIDES

J AVA Your daily cup (or two) of coffee is fine— and may even be beneficial. However, large amounts of caffeine may cause disturbances in heart rhythm and increase your heart rate and blood pressure, according to the National Institutes of Health.

PA N I C AT TA C K S

M E N TA L H E A LT H

Panic attacks and heart attacks can feel a lot alike. “Heart attacks often develop during physical exertion, while panic attacks occur at rest and tend to subside on their own within about 20 minutes,” Bond says. “If you’re not sure, seek immediate medical attention.”

Women’s hearts can be affected by stress and depression more than men’s, which may make it harder to maintain a healthy lifestyle. If you’re suffering emotionally, talk to your doctor.

QUIET

N NUTS

K K I N G C H A R L E S S PA N I E L S

Just two to three ounces of walnuts a day may improve your gut health and lower your risk of heart disease.

(OR LABS, OR MUTTS) Dog owners are 31 percent less likely to die from a heart attack or stroke, possibly because of the extra physical exercise, the mental health benefits of social interaction, and stress relief.

R E L AT I O N S H I P S

L LDL CHOLESTEROL High levels of low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, cholesterol—the “bad” kind— raises your risk of heart disease. One way to lower your LDL naturally: Eat foods with soluble fiber, like oats, beans, apples, and strawberries.

38 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Too much noise can be bad for your heart, say researchers who studied nearly 500 adults over a five-year period, gathering traffic and aircraft noise data for each person’s home address. After adjusting for other factors that contribute to cardiovascular risk (including air pollution), they found that every five-decibel increase in the average 24-hour noise level was associated with a 34 percent increase in heart attacks, strokes, and other heart-related problems.

OLIVE OIL

Those who ate more than half a tablespoon of this Mediterranean staple a day had a 15 percent lower risk of heart disease, according to one study.

The more people we hold in our heart, the stronger it gets: Having few close friends increased the risk of heart attack by about 50 percent, a Swedish study of 17,400 people found.

HIGH PROTEIN, LESS SUGAR

& NUTRIENTS TO SUPPORT IMMUNE HEALTH

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GUIDES

Women under 55 suffering heart attacks were sent home from the ER seven times more often than men with the same symptoms.

X X-T R E M E G R AV Y F R I E S Save them for x-tra special occasions: Trans fats, which are in many pastries and fried food, raise LDL (bad) cholesterol and lower HDL (good) cholesterol.

S SODIUM Skip the extra salt, which can raise blood pressure, and use more garlic and ginger, which can lower blood pressure and reduce bad cholesterol.

Y Y O -Y O D I E T I N G Columbia University researchers determined that women with a history of “weight cycling,” a pattern of weight loss followed by weight gain, had more cardiovascular risk factors than those who maintained a consistent weight.

T TECH If you need a smart watch, consider the Vívosmart 4 ($130; garmin.com), which measures your heart rate and heart rate variability (the time between heartbeats), as well as oxygen saturation levels, which could be a sign of trouble brewing. That said, devices aren’t a substitute for medical care. Get regular physicals, and if you’re concerned, see your doc.

UNCONSCIOUS BIAS

Even doctors can fall for the stereotype of heart attack victims as middleaged men. Women under 55 suffering heart attacks were sent home from the ER seven times more often than men with the same symptoms, according to a study in the New England Journal of Medicine.

40 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

V VA C C I N AT I O N The Covid vaccine isn’t the only important shot—make sure to get your flu jab too. One 2018 study found that the risk of having a heart attack was six times higher within a week of a confirmed flu infection, especially among adults over 65.

W WONDER Whoa, dude! Experiencing a state of wonder can improve your circulation. That’s what University of Buffalo researchers found when they compared biomarkers of people who’d watched an awe-inspiring video with those of people who’d watched a more mundane documentary about sea creatures.

Z ZONE OUT We may not be able to eliminate stress, but we can better handle it through breathwork or meditation. “I meditate 10 minutes every morning and 10 minutes every evening,” Taher says. “I also do breathing exercises and yoga three or four times a week.”

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MONEY

3 Relationship Money Issues, Fixed We vow to l ove e a c h oth e r fo r r i c h e r o r p o o re r, b u t th a t d o e s n’t sto p u s fro m s q u a b b l i n g ove r f i n a n c e s . E x p e r t s we i g h i n w i th s o l u t i o n s fo r c o u p l e s ’ th o r n i e st c h a l l e n g e s . BY PA U L E T T E P E R H A C H

42 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Pa p e r C r a f t P h o t o g r a p h s b y A d r i a n & G i d i

GUIDES

Parenting differences. These are all sources of conflict in relationships, but according to research, financial arguments are the ones that most strongly predict divorce. Here’s how to keep the topic from being so fraught. S E X . I N - L AW P R O B L E M S .

T HE I S S U E

You feel judged by each other about how you spend. Rachel Miller (name has been changed for privacy) loves to buy art and handmade housewares. Her husband wants the newest iPhone and what looks to Rachel like a monster truck. He downshifted his career to take a job with less stress, so they needed to reduce costs. That’s when the fingerpointing began. “When we look at who spends more or where to cut, it gets tense,” she says. “We value different things. I’m a more frequent buyer of cheaper items, and he makes larger purchases, but less often.” With their finances fully merged, they both see— and judge—exactly how the other spends money.

want, with no nitpicking from their partner, says Erin Lowry, author of Broke Millennial Talks Money. First, Lowry suggests they go over their shared financial goals, like saving for retirement or a down payment on a home. If Rachel still finds herself grating every time she hears the engine of her husband’s dream truck, Lowry recommends they check in about whether those goals are being met. If the answer is yes, then it may be helpful for Rachel to release her anger about the truck. “Who is that resentment serving?” Lowry says. “But if their needs are not being met, then they have to have a frank conversation about prioritizing joint goals.”

REAL COUPLE EX AMPLE:

Give each partner a “no-judgment” fund. E X P E RT F I X :

They decide on an equal amount of cash to put in separate accounts every month, and they can spend that money however they HOW IT WORKS:

entrepreneur. Then the pandemic hit. By the end of the year, they wanted to get Julien’s mom out of senior housing and into an apartment that better suited her needs, but the business, though growing, was too young to be predictable. “We didn’t know where the money would come from to help her, and we had a hard time talking about it,” Kiersten says. E X P E RT F I X :

Call a money meeting.

When people are stressed, they see things in a more black-and-white way, which hinders compromise, says financial therapist Amanda Clayman. Julien and Kiersten argued about whether to help at all, rather than brainstorm ways to increase their income or decrease other expenses. Clayman recommends partners schedule time to talk when emotions aren’t running high, so they can find a solution that works for both of them. This conversation needs to be more intentional than impromptu chats about expenses like dining out, because it involves a major commitment, Clayman says. “With discretionary expenses, you have a lot of chances to try things, to experiment, to compromise,” she says. “But with these fundamental, long-term expenses, it takes work to come to a place of making that decision together.” HOW IT WORKS:

TH E IS S U E

You disagree on a major money decision, like supporting a family member. Julien and Kiersten Saunders, the couple behind the blog Rich & Regular and the book Cashing Out (available in July), struggled with what they call a “flammable” topic: how much financial support to give Julien’s mother. Kiersten’s parents are retired and self-supporting, but Julien’s mother is single, and they always knew there’d come a time when she’d need help with money. They just didn’t expect it to arrive so soon. In February 2020, Kiersten took a risky financial leap to be a full-time REAL COUPLE EX AMPLE:

JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

REAL SIMPLE

GUIDES

place. Living with someone requires trust that they’ll fulﬁll their end of the deal, and because of Athena’s history, she has trouble conjuring that trust. “I’ve never had the ﬁnancial stability I have now, and I’m scared that if I move in with him, I’m going to lose it,” she says. E X P E RT F I X :

Talk to a ﬁnancial

therapist. When we have money issues, we might think that consulting a financial adviser is the way to go. But financial therapists are trained to consider a person’s relationship and history with money, combining mental health treatment with financial planning (find one at financialtherapyassociation.org). “Financial therapy helps people understand how they relate to money, how they think and feel about money, and how that impacts their financial behaviors and relationships,” says financial therapist Lindsay BryanPodvin of the platform Mind Money Balance. If your financial therapist is also a licensed mental health provider, your insurance may cover the costs. Athena’s hesitation is understandable given her childhood experiences with money, Bryan-Podvin says. “Instead of being ashamed of that paralysis, honor it,” she says. “Your brain and your body are simply trying to protect you from a precarious money situation.” Athena says therapy has helped her communicate her needs to Josh and take baby steps toward creating a future together. HOW IT WORKS:

Before the meeting, you and your partner should take a few minutes to think about what’s important and jot down talking points. Then, during the meeting, discuss how you feel and how that affects the way you see the money decision. Julien, for example, might share all the sacrifices his mother made to raise him, and how that makes him want to support her as an adult. The goal of these money talks should not be to “win,” but to reach an agreement you’re both comfortable with. For Kiersten and Julien, it’s no longer “Should we offer support or not?” but rather “How much can we afford to help, and how often?”

44 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

T HE IS S U E

You find it difficult to financially trust your partner. Athena Valentine grew up watching her mother pawn valuables to afford groceries. Her mom died when she was still in high school, and Athena had to sleep on couches at friends’ houses. Over the next decade, she got her ﬁnancial act together using tactics she writes about on her blog, Money Smart Latina, like practicing zero-based budgeting. Because of that work, she’s been able to afford a one-bedroom rental for the past six years. Now Athena wants to move in with her partner, Josh, but also feels unable to let go of the security of her own RE AL COUPLE EX AMPLE:

GUIDES

THINGS COOKS KNOW

Grains of Wisdom W h eth e r yo u ’re a w h o l e - g ra i n n ew b i e o r a d ve nt u re r, th e s e fo u r o pt i o n s d e s e r ve a s p ot o n yo u r p l a te — p l u s , h ow to c o o k a n d sto re th e m i n a s n a p . BY J E N N A H E LW I G

Kitchen Basics S H O P from bulk bins for

OAT S

That’s right: Your morning bowl is filled with whole grains, whether you’re eating steelcut, traditional rolled, or quick-cooking.

BULGUR

FA R RO

This staple of Middle Eastern and Eastern European cooking comes from wheat kernels that have been boiled, dried, and chopped. Because it’s precooked, it’s speedy to prep.

Also known as emmer, this ancient strain of wheat is especially popular in Italy. It’s nutty and relatively quick-cooking when you buy the semipearled variety, which has some of the bran removed. “Farro has a great chew and adds texture to any dish,” McFadden says.

Use It: Bulgur may be best known as the base of tabbouleh, the refreshing tomato and herb salad. Joshua McFadden, author of Grains for Every Season, adds bulgur to lamb meatballs in lieu of bread crumbs. In a grain bowl, he tops it with toasted nuts, torn herbs, citrus segments, and seasonal veggies.

Use It: McFadden likes farro in a grain bowl with roast chicken, fresh parsley or cilantro, and pickled hot peppers or chili oil. Or add it to salads or chunky soups.

46 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Use It: Think of oats like any other whole grain. “I love topping oatmeal with Cheddar cheese and a little chili oil, the way I would eat grits,” says Abra Berens, author of Grist. Or blitz oats in a food processor and use them to bread fish or chicken before frying.

BARLEY

The hulled variety, which is firm and chewy, takes longer to cook. The pearled version (not a whole grain, but still very nutritious!) cooks faster and releases more starch, making it creamier. Use It: “I love it in a grain bowl with apples and cheese,” Berens says. You can also cook pearled barley like risotto, or add either variety to soups.

best value, but you might not get cooking instructions or know how long the grains have been sitting there. For packaged versions, Bob’s Red Mill is a high-quality and widely available brand. K E E P grains in tightly

sealed containers out of direct sunlight, in an area with a stable, moderate temperature. C O O K most grains in well-

salted boiling water. For speedier results, use an Instant Pot. If you have time before cooking, toast the grains for a few minutes in a dry frying pan over medium heat for deeper flavor. C O O L cooked grains quickly

by draining them and spreading them in an even layer on a parchment-lined large rimmed baking sheet. R E F R I G E R AT E cooled

cooked grains in an airtight container for up to five days. F R E E Z E cooled grains in

one- or two-cup portions. Defrost in the fridge overnight, or add straight from frozen to soups or stews or sauté with olive oil.

Illustration by Adam Cruft

EASY PREP. EASY COOK. EASY CLEAN. Tough and durable to prevent rips and tears. It’s dinner made easy.

GUIDES

ROAD TEST

Faux Meats We ta ste d d oze n s of p l a nt - b a s e d p ro d u c t s to f i n d th e o n e s th a t m a ke sw i tc h i n g a c i n c h , n ot a s a c r i f i c e . BY M A RT H A U P TO N

B E S T B U RG E R

Before the Butcher Uncut Burgers These have the beefy aroma and flavor you’d expect of a burger, with a juicy bite that makes them stand out above the rest. TO BUY: $7 for 2 patties; at grocery stores.

B E S T M E AT B A L L S

Trader Joe’s Meatless Meatballs Simmer these tender rounds in your favorite sauce for a robust flavor that’s close to Nonna’s recipe. (Just don’t tell her.) TO BUY: $4 for 16 oz.; at Trader Joe’s.

ROAD TE ST

B E S T S AU S A G E

B E S T D E L I M E AT

Plant Provisions Smokehouse Plant Based Deli Slices This sliced-pastrami doppelgänger is made from beets, but the dominant flavors are garlic, black pepper, and hickory smoke. As a bonus, each portion has seven grams of protein and is free of the top eight allergens, including soy. TO BUY: $8 for 6 oz.; at grocery stores.

48 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

BEST BACON

Lightlife Smart Bacon Real bacon is all about that crispiness and smoky flavor. This brand nails it. TO BUY: $5 for 5 oz.; at grocery stores.

BEST CHICKEN NUGGETS

Impossible Chicken Nuggets In both taste and texture, these meaty, juicy morsels are virtually identical to your kids’ fave, and they bake in only 11 minutes. Or air-fry them for extra crunch. TO BUY: $8 for 13.5 oz.; at grocery stores.

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

Beyond Sausage Sweet Italian The lightly spiced links feature a meaty texture and the same notes of fennel and oregano as the original…minus the pork. TO BUY: $9 for 14 oz.; at grocery stores.

From the publishers of

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Inspired gift ideas from female-owned brands. P G . 24

Going gas-free? All your questions, answered. P G . 3 0

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SPOTLESS

9 THINGS YOU C AN CLE AN IN THE DISHWA SHER Lo a d u p th e m a c h i n e w i th a nu m b e r of s u r p r i s i n g i te m s , fro m ve nt c ove rs to f l i p - f l o p s to b a s e b a l l c a p s .

P R O P ST Y L I N G BY J O S E P H WA N E K

BY L E S L I E CO RO N A

50 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

P h o t o g r a p h b y B r i e Pa s s a n o

GUIDES

B AT H RO O M A C C E S S O R I E S

Toothpaste drippings, soap residue, and—let’s be real—mold from moist surfaces can be gross to scrub by hand. The heat from the dishwasher will take care of toothbrush holders, soap dishes, plastic shower caddies, and drain stoppers without triggering your gag reflex.

Most items should go on the top rack. Some large items can go on the lower level if the top rack is removable.

R E F R I G E R AT O R C O M P O N E N T S

BASEBALL CAPS

These are fine on the top rack, as long as the brim isn’t made of cardboard, which most aren’t nowadays. (Your kid’s new Cavaliers cap? Sure. Your Delta Sigma Theta classic? Nope.) F L I P- F L O P S

If they’re grungy following an active summer, rinse off any sand or dried mud, then place them on the top rack. Loop the straps over a tine so they don’t flip-flop around.

You can use your ever yday dishwasher detergent, but rinse extra-muddy items before loading (in the sink or tub, or outside with the hose).

GARDENING TO OL S

You can typically clean these under the outside spigot between uses, but give them a thorough wash before storing them for the season. First hose them off to remove chunks of dirt, and check that they’re not aluminum (which can discolor in the dishwasher). Dry completely to prevent rust. P L A S T I C H A I R B RU S H E S

Dishwasher detergent is excellent at breaking down residue from styling products and built-up scalp oils. A monthly cleanse is ideal. Remove hair strands first, and avoid putting brushes with wooden parts or natural boar bristles through a cycle, as those can dry out and crack from excess moisture.

If you have removable crisper drawers, butter trays, or shelves, go for it (about every three months). Rubbercoated metal shelves are safe too— just thoroughly dry them with a microfiber cloth afterward to keep them from molding. M E TA L V E N T C OV E R S

Every six months, send these dust magnets through the wash. Dry completely before reinstalling. VA C U U M C L E A N E R AT TA C H M E N T S

Consult your owner’s manual first, but in some cases, vacuum attachments are dishwasher safe. As needed, run a load with all the plastic attachments and detail brushes.

KITCHEN TO OL S

The drain plug, scrub brushes, and drying rack can join the dishwashing club. In many cases, larger items made of sturdy plastic—like a drainage tray—are OK to put on the bottom rack. If your top rack is removable, take it out to make room for taller stuff. To keep little things from getting tossed around, put them in a small mesh laundry bag on the top rack.

O U R E X P E RT S COURTENAY HARTFORD, AUTHOR OF THE CLEANING NINJA DONNA SMALLIN KUPER, CERTIFIED HOUSECLEANING TECHNICIAN AND AUTHOR OF CLEANING PLAIN & SIMPLE JILL NYSTUL, CREATOR OF THE HOME-MAINTENANCE BLOG ONE GOOD THING BY JILLEE

JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022 R E A L S I M P L E

GUIDES

PETS

The Best Medicine A s p o o nfu l of t u n a j u i c e ( ! ) h e l p s th e m e d i c i n e g o d ow n — p l u s oth e r t i p s fo r a d m i n i ste r i n g , c h o o s i n g , a n d s a v i n g o n p et m e d s . BY J U N O DEM E LO

How do I get my pet to take them?

Beyond the core vaccines pets should get about every one to three years, dogs and cats—even indoor cats—need yearround protection against intestinal parasites, fleas, ticks, and heartworm (which is spread through mosquito bites). A variety of oral, topical, and wearable options target multiple critters; ask your vet which version is best for your pet. Some dogs may also require medication to help with noise phobias (fireworks, thunderstorms) or separation anxiety. A few drugs for canine mental health issues are available, but most psychiatric meds are prescribed to animals “off-label,” meaning the FDA hasn’t approved them for that use. (Don’t worry: Off-label use is legal when prescribed by a licensed vet— even with drugs intended for humans.)

And what about supplements?

Where should I buy prescriptions?

If your pet has creaky joints, your vet can help determine the cause and recommend a treatment plan; research suggests glucosamine may help. If your pet is about to start antibiotics or has a potentially stressful event on the horizon—like a move or long trip—consider probiotics, which may reduce the severity of diarrhea. Look for a product from a major manufacturer, such as Purina’s FortiFlora, Nutramax’s Proviable, or Visbiome Vet’s Visbiome.

You can save money by buying your pet’s medication online, versus at the vet’s office, but be careful: Only 5 percent of online pharmacies meet the standards set by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy. To find an acceptable seller, go to safe.pharmacy (no “.com”) and enter the URL of the pharmacy you’re considering. Approved online retailers include PetMeds, Chewy, and Walmart.

Two words for cat owners: cat burrito. It’s a wrapping technique to swaddle cats for safe handling. Cats— and their owners—often prefer liquid meds. If your cat was prescribed a pill and has trouble with it, ask your vet if you can get it made into a liquid, or if it’s OK to crush it up and mix it with tuna juice. Then squirt it into your cat’s mouth using a syringe. For dogs, you can hide tablets in pill pockets, in food like peanut butter or cheese (first ask your vet if dairy interacts with the medicine), or even in gel capsules, which help mask the smell of stinky meds. Capsules can fit multiple pills, making life easier if you have to give your pup more than one at a time. No matter your approach, shower your dog with treats and praise before and after.

O U R E X P E RT S GENE PAVLOVSKY, DVM, MEDICAL DIRECTOR OF THE VETERINARY MEDICINE SOUTH CLINIC AT THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE EMILY SORAH, PHARMD, DIRECTOR OF CLINICAL PHARMACY SERVICES AT NC STATE COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE JAN SUCHODOLSKI, DVM, PHD, PROFESSOR OF SMALL ANIMAL INTERNAL MEDICINE AT TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY AND ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR FOR RESEARCH AT THE GASTROINTESTINAL LABORATORY

52 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

G E T T Y I M AG ES

Which medications do pets actually need?

FA M I LY

Get Out of Town! Plan a family vacation that makes ever yone happy— from Gram to the b aby. BY A L E X P O ST M A N

we follow the bouncycastle rule. This had its origins in a trip to France, which included a day touring three châteaus (nonbouncy castles). My reasoning? I wanted to see all three. This was a splurge vacation, and I would pack the junior year abroad I never had into two weeks. More importantly, I figured our boys, 12 and 10 at the time, would love a place where knights once clanged through the halls. Our 5-year-old daughter, then in full-on princess mode, would feel as if she’d stepped into Sleeping Beauty. And my husband would endure it uncomplainingly because, well, he always does. I N OU R FA M I LY,

54 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Castle number one was stuffed with tapestries and tiny beds (my husband dad-joked, “That is not a king-size mattress”). Castle number two was a warren of empty rooms with zero suits of armor. As we walked to the car, one of the kids blurted, “This is so boring!” Another one: “We’re sick of old things!” Suddenly we were shouting at each other—me about their ingratitude, them about the stupidity of it all (“We didn’t even want to come to France!”). My husband bargained one more castle for a round of crepes. We sulked as we drove through cobblestoned villages. Then one of the kids yelled, “Dad! Stop!” There, in all its faux-medieval glory, loomed a

bouncy castle, set up for a fair. The kids spent the next hour bopping and shrieking. It reset their moods, and ours. Now, whenever I overreach in planning on trips, my husband whispers, “Bouncy castle,” and we change course. With family travel, the stakes are high—precious time off, great expense, a desire to return with happy memories—and even higher now that travel has been postponed so long. “There are new layers to the family trip,” says Jacqueline Gifford, editor in chief of Travel + Leisure. “Generations are reuniting, so there’s a lot of emotion attached.” Here’s how to plan a vacation that everyone enjoys—or at least finds less to complain about.

Illustrations by Lauren Semmer

GUIDES

Cut the Schlep

Don’t Overschedule “We know you want to tick off every activity, try every restaurant, and see and do as much as possible, but it’s important to leave room in your itinerary for downtime,” says Alex Erdman Ely, owner of Local Foreigner, a luxury travel consultancy. “Some of the best family memories are created in those in-between spaces, when you’ve got nothing to do but spend time with one another in a new destination.” Gifford suggests planning only one ambitious activity for the morning or afternoon, leaving the rest of the day free for family members to do their own thing, especially older relatives who may need extra rest. Sometimes the best plan is truly no plan at all. In Venice—during that same summer splurge trip—my kids amused themselves for hours slingshotting plastic whirlybirds into the air above Piazza San Marco.

Reducing the number of flight connections and hotel check-ins will help preserve everyone’s mood. However many countries, cities, or villages you want to visit, knock at least one off the list. “Shift your budget away from traveling to multiple places, and look at fewer locations that are of higher quality,” says Teresa Sullivan, cofounder of Mango African Safaris. Spend less time getting there, more time being there. A cruise is a great solve, especially for multiple generations: nonstop entertainment for all, and you only need to unpack once.

Splurge for Sanity “Give yourself license to splurge on one thing that makes life easier as a group,” Gifford says. “For my family, it’s getting a taxi or car service to and from a restaurant. We all love wine and great food, and no one wants to be that person stuck driving home, especially on dark and unfamiliar roads.”

Age Out “The key to great family travel is understanding everyone’s different interests, attention spans, and capabilities,” Sullivan says. If you want an educational component for kids, “think of activities that tie into their schooling or are more interactive than a boring old history lesson,” Gifford says. Once kids can read, they’re generally better able to handle museum visits, she notes. Cooking and art lessons can also unite generations. Or invoke the bouncycastle rule: one activity for you, one for them. Let each kid choose an activity they most want to do, and make it veto-proof. And where is it written that everyone needs to be together all the time? Peeling off into different family pods can keep everyone happy. Grandma and Mom can browse the museum’s Victorian-wallpaper exhibit to their hearts’ content while Dad and the kids hit the water park.

If You Can Pre- It, Do It School vacations are generally the busiest and most expensive times to travel. Whenever you can, book outings and day trips in advance. Timed entries are now the norm at many museums. Prebooking becomes even more essential with large groups, particularly when it comes to dining—there are few things worse than stumbling hangrily from restaurant to restaurant looking for a big-enough table.

JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022 R E A L S I M P L E

GUIDES

s a vo r t h e BAHAMAS Take a Date Night

Let your culinary adventures begin with celebrity chef cuisine and authentic Bahamian flavors designed for every palate.

Stay in an Actual Fun House “Parents have a good time when their kids have fun, and parents relax when their kids aren’t bothering other people,” Sullivan says. My kids loved rushing into a new hotel room and jumping on the beds (are you sensing a pattern?), and I hated constantly shushing them. So for many years, for my own sake, I didn’t even consider small hotels and B&Bs. And I always, always look for a hotel with a pool. “A swimming pool is a secret weapon,” Sullivan says. “My children can handle a long hike, a Mayan ruin, even a historical walking tour if they get a few hours at the pool in the afternoon. Cannonballs feel like vacation.”

Follow the Leader Some of our best outings were thanks to experts for hire—a rock-climbing guide at Zion National Park, a historian who took us behind the scenes at the U.S. Capitol. Guides may be pricey, but they can save you time, skipping you to the front of lines or securing timed entrances. Also, our kids always paid more attention when we weren’t the ones delivering the lesson. Later, you’ll crack each other up imitating the guide—their corny jokes, or the way they flirted shamelessly with Dad (true story).

Hiring a babysitter for a night or two while traveling can be a lifesaver. Ask your hotel or resort for sitter services, Gifford says. When our oldest was in middle school, my husband and I started leaving the kids in the hotel room and going out for a civilized dinner. They loved ordering room service on their own (teach them how to tip, and give them cash so they can actually do it!) and commandeering the TV remote.

Just Say Yes No one wants to spend vacation endlessly saying no. Yes to another gelato. Yes to letting them play on their iPads despite the breathtaking (though admittedly repetitive) landscape outside the car window. Yes to your mother-in-law, who wants to go into yet another Christmas ornament shop, even though it’s August. Don’t be surprised when your vibe of yes rubs off on them—and they return it in kind: Yes, we’ll see you when you’re back from the spa. Yes, read your book. Yes, go relax.

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a world of

WO N D E R awaits

the best journeys are measured in memories, not miles.

AtlantisBahamas.com/RS 8 0 0.7 94 .93 7 7

GUIDES

10-MINUTE ORGANIZER

T R A S H A N D R ECYC L I N G

Your garbage may not be the prettiest sight, but you can keep it streamlined and presentable. BY T E D DY W I L L S O N

T H E TO O L

Most garbage comes from the kitchen, so keep all your trash supplies there, ideally under the sink. Free up space by mounting a paper towel holder inside the cabinet door to hold a roll of trash bags (use short screws that won’t pierce the door). Also stock scissors, a box cutter for breaking down packages, and jute twine for bundling paper recyclables. To keep your trash can as ick-free as possible, stick two Command hooks upside down a few inches below the rim on the outside. When you put in a new bag, loop the drawstrings around the hooks to prevent slippage—and a big mess when you toss in something heavy.

THE HABIT

O U R E X P E RT S JESSICA DESIATO, FOUNDER OF THOUGHTFULLY ORGANIZED MARISSA HAGMEYER, COFOUNDER OF NEAT METHOD MANDY YANG, DECLUTTERING COACH AND FOUNDER OF AMONG ALL OF THIS

58 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Separating food waste from the rest of your garbage will help stave off bad odors and pests. Use a dual-compartment bin for dry trash and rinsed recyclables. Leave a small lidded container lined with a produce bag on the counter for food scraps; compost the waste or throw it out often.

A caddy or turntable with adjustable dividers will keep all your supplies tidy. Try the RollOut Under Sink Caddy or the SinkSuite Under Sink Turntable ($30 each; youcopia.com).

THE APP If you struggle to remember your trash days or are unsure what can be recycled, the Recycle Coach app (free; iOS and Android) will be your saving grace. View the pickup calendar, set reminders, and search the database to find out whether something should go into the trash or the recycling. Alternatively, simply tape a schedule of your pickup days to the inside of the cabinet door or the lid of your trash can.

THE MANTR A “Even trash can be clean and organized.” Having a system will make handling trash less of a chore and more of a routine.

P h o t o g r a p h b y B r i e Pa s s a n o

P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y J O S E P H W A N E 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

THE QUICK FIXES

60 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Photographs by Br yan Gardner

C r a f t S t y l i n g b y M i a k o Ka t o h

GUIDES

SLEEP AWA R D S

SNOOZEFEST 2022

T H E G R E AT R E S T R E S E T

Have these troubled times left you tossing and turning? Relax! We’ve got expert advice on drifting off to dreamland, along with this year’s star shut-eye products. BY B E T H W E I N H O U S E

did a number on our sleep habits. Those months of confinement and anxiety had such a profound effect on our nightly rest that experts coined a new term: “coronasomnia.” According to one study, at least 40 percent of us reported sleep challenges since the beginning of the pandemic. Even our dreams became less sweet: Those who spent a lot of time alone had nightmares about isolation, while those who spent long days a little too close to loved ones were entangled in nightly scenarios of mild claustrophobia, one study found. Not so conducive to a good night! If you still find it challenging to get that peaceful, easy feeling when your head hits the pillow, our experts will send you back to the basics so you can tap into what’s essential for restorative sleep. Read on for their advice, plus the latest and greatest pajamas, noiseblocking machine, and other products to put you on the night train to oblivion.

Use Tech Wisely

T H E G L O BA L PA N D E M I C

Let There Be Light Insomnia actually starts in broad daylight. The body uses light and other signals to regulate levels of the hormones melatonin and serotonin, which govern our circadian rhythms of sleep and rest. In one University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign study, people who worked near windows that let in natural light slept better than those who worked in windowless environments. That may explain why many former commuters began having sleep problems once they started rolling out of bed and going to work in their new basement offices. “I tell my patients that when they wake up, they should take 20 minutes or half an hour to go for a walk or sit outside,” says Fariha Abbasi-Feinberg, MD, a sleep physician at Millennium Physician Group in Fort Myers, Florida. Even on an overcast day, there’s enough light to help set your body’s internal clock properly. If you’d like an extra boost, especially in the dark days of winter, Abbasi-Feinberg adds, consider buying a light box.

During the pandemic, you may have gotten some new high scores with your screen time, which also probably compromised your sleep. You’ve doubtless heard that exposure to blue light suppresses the secretion of melatonin. But blue-light-blocking apps and devices may not be the answer. A 2019 British study found that this kind of tech produces small changes in brightness that end up resembling daylight—sending our brains mixed messages about what time it is. Rather than fretting about blue light, turn on brighter, warmer lights in the day and dim, cooler lights in the evening. Researchers argue that may be more beneficial to overall sleep. The devices themselves may be less of a problem than what you do with them, says Abbasi-Feinberg, who is a big fan of so-called sleep podcasts. “Some podcasts feature stories that aren’t really nonsense, but aren’t that interesting either, with voices so soothing that you doze off,” she says.

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GUIDES

Apps like Calm, Headspace, and Insight Timer offer sleep stories and music as well as guided meditations. Download the recordings ahead of time, Abbasi-Feinberg advises, so you won’t need to lie in bed scrolling through options.

A bedtime ritual is just as important for grown-ups as it is for babies. It creates separation between day and night, and helps us wind down.

Exercise, but Not Too Late in the Day Physical activity is important for not only cardiovascular wellness but also healthy sleep. People who work out regularly sleep better and have less insomnia than those who are sedentary, dozens of studies have repeatedly found. “Exercise can also be great at regulating stress and priming the brain to be less anxious,” says Ilene Rosen, MD, a sleep medicine physician and associate professor of medicine at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. But the timing is key. Vigorous exercise boosts endorphins, which can make it difficult to fall asleep quickly. The ideal time to exercise is, of course, whenever you’ll actually do it. It can be as baked into your day as a morning stroll with the dog or a brisk walk on your commute home. Just make sure it happens at least a few hours before bed. “Exercise raises core body temperature, even briefly, and that effect can last for a while,” Rosen says. “The brain falls asleep by dropping the core body temperature over the course of the night, so you don’t want to exercise too close to bedtime.”

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Create a Bedtime Routine Anyone who’s ever put a baby to bed knows that a controlled environment and predictable sequence of events are as good as gold: a warm bath, a bottle, a fresh diaper, a story, soothing music, and maybe a turtle-shaped night-light. And all this at the exact same time every night, so there’s no way the baby thinks to do anything other than sleep. As adults, however, most of us just hunch over our laptops or click between House Hunters International and Below Deck while scrolling through Instagram, right up until the moment we put on our pajamas and fall onto our pillow. But a bedtime ritual is just as important for grown-ups as it is for babies—and for the same reasons. “It creates separation between day and night and helps us wind down,” says Allison T. Siebern, PhD, adjunct clinical assistant professor at Stanford Sleep Medicine Center and a psychologist specializing in integrative treatments for sleep disorders. There’s no magic formula for a bedtime ritual, but in general, follow these guidelines: Don’t go to bed very full or very hungry. If you need a snack, have

a light one—something with complex carbs, which help keep blood sugar stable, and a little protein, which keeps you feeling full. Try a slice of whole-wheat toast with almond butter. And a hot bath may feel relaxing, but a lukewarm one is best for inducing sleepiness. Hot water can interfere with that drop in our core body temperature in the hours before sleep, Rosen says. Finally—friendly reminder— this is no time to tune in to your favorite true-crime podcast, click through the headlines, or scroll social media, with its accompanying operatic emotions of outrage, annoyance, and pettiness. This is the time for the media equivalent of oatmeal. “Choose something you find comforting and nourishing,” Siebern says. “Maybe read poetry or short stories, or look at art. You don’t want to get too excited.”

Set Up Your Bedroom for Sleep “When it comes to your bedroom, think cave: cool, dark, and quiet,” Rosen says. “It should be a place where you feel you could hibernate.” Make the room as dark as possible by investing in blackout shades, blackout paper for your windows, or a sleep mask. If you’re plagued by the sounds of traffic or neighbors, white noise is the way to go, Rosen says. “You can get an app for your phone, but you can also buy a white-noise machine for under $40. It should be set loud enough that you don’t hear what’s happening outside or in the rest of

JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022 R E A L S I M P L E

GUIDES

your house.” If white noise is too harsh for you (or if the allegedly soothing sounds of a spin cycle just make you fret about the laundry you forgot to put in the dryer), you may want to consider pink noise, which can be more calming for some people, since it’s often found in nature (rainfall and wind, for instance). As for your bed itself, “it should feel like your snuggle place,” AbbasiFeinberg says. “A lot of people who have trouble sleeping say weighted blankets cocoon them and give them a sense of safety.” If your bed has doubled as your cubicle during the pandemic, relocate to a chair. “The more the environment can be made to feel different for sleep versus work, the better,” Rosen says. “If you have to have your bedroom as your home office, set up a folding table that can be easily put away when not in use.”

Think About Relaxing Rather Than Sleeping Sometimes lying in bed and worrying that you can’t fall asleep just pushes Mr. Sandman farther away. Breathing exercises can relax the body and mind. The best one for troubled sleepers is diaphragmatic breathing, says Joshua Tal, PhD, a psychologist in New York City who specializes in sleep disorders. “When we’re stressed, we activate the sympathetic nervous system. That leads to a host of changes in the body. If people feel stressed at bedtime,

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their fight-or-flight system is fully activated, which can be really problematic.” The antidote, he says, is to activate the parasympathetic nervous system—the body’s rest-anddigest system. “After a dangerous situation, when you get to safety, all the changes your body went through to fight and run away are reversed,” he explains. “Our breathing changes to diaphragmatic breathing—deep, relaxing belly breaths—so you’re able to get oxygen again.” Some of the most well-known techniques for activating diaphragmatic breathing involve counting; for instance, 4-7-8 breathing, in which you breathe in for a count of four, hold your breath for a count of seven, then breathe out for a count of eight. Square breathing (also called box breathing) is four counts in, four counts hold, then four counts out. Your belly should expand with each inhale. “Practice in the evening, before bed, or when lying in bed trying to sleep,” Tal says. Remind yourself that you’re breathing simply to get to a relaxed state. Sleep will come when it’s time.

If you feel stressed at bedtime, your fight-or-flight system is fully activated. The antidote is diaphragmatic breathing.

Write Down Your Worries If switching off the light starts up a hamster wheel of fretful thoughts (Are my slides ready for the presentation? Will I ever retire? How do I get rid of drain flies?), try transferring them to paper. Keep a notebook beside the bed, and the next time anxious thoughts make you toss and turn, jot them down. “Write in shorthand,” Tal says. “Don’t dive in deeply and explore.” Scribble your notes quickly, with just enough detail that you’ll be able to think about them later. After you’ve finished one note, move on to the next, without reading what you’ve recorded. Finally, “schedule worry time during the day as an intervention,” Tal says. That’s when you can go over what you’ve written. “Just writing your worries won’t do anything on its own. We worry about things because we want the brain to pay attention to them. So take a few minutes during the day to look at your notebook and brainstorm solutions.” after trying these tips, it may be time to see a doctor or other health professional. First, ask yourself whether you’re dealing with a temporary stressor—one that has an end date, like a work project or house renovation. In that case, consider waiting until you get through it before assuming that your sleep problems are chronic. New cases of insomnia often go away on their own in a few months. If you continue to toss and turn, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (sleepeducation.org) can connect you with sleep specialists across the country. I F YO U ’ R E S T I L L S T R U G G L I N G

SLEEP AWA R D S

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BEST BED TOPPER

Oura Ring Generation 3

Jambys

Slip this lightweight health tracker onto your finger to gain insight into sleep metrics, including your resting heart rate and baseline body temperature. The sensors automatically log daily workouts and naps too, helping you better understand your rest and recovery patterns. TO BUY: $299; ouraring.com.

Dubbed “performance inactivewear,” this is sleepwear at its softest. Try the breathable boxers (equipped with pockets and a waistband that won’t bunch up) or the ultraplush JamTee—a stretchy short-sleeve shirt that looks like a tee yet wears like your most lived-in robe. TO BUY: From $35; jambys.com (see page 10 for a discount).

Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Topper Supreme Give your mattress a major upgrade with this cushy three-inch topper. Made from the brand’s signature memory foam, it’s a breathable bedding staple that adapts to your weight, shape, and temperature over time. TO BUY: From $299; tempurpedic.com.

B E S T N A P A C C E S S O RY

BEST MO OD SET TER

B E S T B E F O R E - B E D R I T UA L

Sleep Number Bolster Pillow

Loftie Alarm Clock

Unisom Simple Slumbers

This memory-foam pillow supports your neck during afternoon catnaps and serves as a lumbar pillow while you’re WFS (working from sofa). When you lie on your back, slide it under your knees to help reduce lower-back pain. TO BUY: $35; sleepnumber.com.

This all-in-one alarm clock, night-light, and white-noise machine will help you break the habit of falling asleep next to your smartphone. Customize its dimmable display and volume setting, then let the peaceful tones of morning rain or a crackling campfire gradually wake you (never again, blaring alarm clock!). On nights when you struggle to drift off, use the built-in breathing tips and guided meditations. TO BUY: $149; byloftie.com.

From calming elixirs to CBD chews, we tried them all, and Unisom’s raspberryflavored gummies hit the sweet spot. Take two as part of your nightly wind-down routine, and the melatonin will prepare you for a more blissful snooze. TO BUY: $11 for 30; target.com.

JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022 R E A L S I M P L E

B E AU T Y G OA L

Curled, defined lashes without mascara T R E AT M E N T

Lift and tint Unlike extensions, which are synthetic lashes glued strand by strand onto your own lashes, a lift is essentially a perm for your natural hairs. The aesthetician places a silicone rod on your lid, then curls your lashes over the rod and attaches them with an adhesive. A setting lotion helps hold the shape. This part takes about an hour. Now think of a tint like a root touch-up: Eye-safe dye is applied for about 15 minutes to darken lashes and add definition. W H AT I T E N TA I L S :

A lift costs $75 to $200 and lasts four to six weeks. A tint costs $25 to $40 and lasts a month. HOW MUCH IT COSTS:

You might feel slight discomfort when your lashes are molded to the rod. Also, you have to keep your eyes closed for the duration of the treatments. H O W M U C H I T H U RT S :

HOW IT MAKES LIFE EASIER:

BE AUT Y

Faster Mornings, Lasting Results T h e s e s i x t re a t m e nt s h e l p yo u p u t yo u r b e st fa c e ( a n d h a i r, a n d l a s h e s , a n d b rows ) fo r wa rd . BY H E AT H E R M U I R M A F F E I

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“My lashes are stubborn and won’t hold a curl. And with my hooded lids, I struggle to make my eyes look more awake. I’ve been getting my lashes lifted and tinted every other month for 15 years, which has been the perfect solution! I love that my eyes are defined and I can get up and go.” —Donna Fischer, 55 Make sure the aesthetician does a patch test first, and avoid water and makeup for 24 hours afterward. If you have sensitive eyes, skip these treatments. N E E D T O K N O W:

Illustrations by Babeth Lafon

GUIDES

B E AU T Y G OA L

A protective style with boho vibes T R E AT M E N T

Passion twists (rubber band method) A stylist secures wavy extensions (FreeTress Water Wave Braiding Hair is a popular version) to your natural hair at the roots using rubber bands, then twists the natural and faux sections together. The process takes four to eight hours. Passion twists can be less damaging than cornrows. W H AT I T E N TA I L S :

HOW MUCH IT COSTS:

About $150 to $200. The style lasts up to two months.

B E AU T Y G OA L

H O W M U C H I T H U RT S :

To shave less

You shouldn’t feel any pain. Wash and dry hair and apply an oil for proper prep. HOW IT MAKES LIFE EASIER:

“It’s an easy, low-maintenance style that gives my natural hair a break.” —Anita Delamater, 37 Apply oil to your scalp and twists every other day to help keep your hair healthy. Sleeping with a silk or satin bonnet or on a silk pillowcase can extend the life of the twists. N E E D T O K N O W:

T R E AT M E N T

Laser hair removal A tech or physician presses a small laser device against your skin. It emits a beam of light that’s absorbed by the pigment in the root of the hair, damaging or completely destroying the hair follicle. W H AT I T E N TA I L S :

Small areas (upper lip) will run you about $200 per session. Larger areas (thigh or bikini) start at about $500. Sessions are spaced out every four to six weeks, and you typically need three to eight. HOW MUCH IT COSTS:

It’s comparable to being snapped by rubber bands—imagine hot, sharp zaps. Your upper lip, armpits, lower legs, and bikini area are the most sensitive. Redness, stinging, and swelling for about 48 hours afterward is normal. Derms recommend hydrocortisone cream. H O W M U C H I T H U RT S :

HOW IT MAKES LIFE EASIER:

“So far, I’ve gotten laser hair removal on my underarms and bikini line, and it has been so worth it. I never have to worry about shaving either area—what a dream. If I go two months without shaving, there will be maybe a superfine hair or two, and that’s it. No ingrowns, no razor burn, nothing—just smooth skin.” —Lexi Novak, 32 Not every laser works on every skin tone, and the wrong treatment can result in pigment changes. Fairer tones need a different wavelength than deeper tones, so talk to your dermatologist about which one is best for you. N E E D T O K N O W:

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B E AU T Y G OA L

Shiny, even-looking, brushed-up eyebrows T R E AT M E N T

Lamination Microblading involves needles and coloring, while lamination works by manipulating your own brows. First the aesthetician applies a lifting cream, which breaks down chemical bonds in the hairs to make them malleable. Then they brush your brows into place with a spoolie and apply a chemical neutralizer to seal hairs in the new shape. W H AT I T E N TA I L S :

B E AU T Y G OA L

Frizz-free strands and less blow-dry time T R E AT M E N T

Smoothing A straightening solution (go for one that doesn’t contain formaldehyde) is left on for up to 45 minutes. Then the stylist blow-dries and flat-irons your hair for a looser, sleeker texture that lasts up to five months, depending on which treatment you get. Some brands we like: Goldwell Kerasilk, Trissola Solo, and Cezanne Classic Smoothing Treatment. W H AT I T E N TA I L S :

HOW MUCH IT COSTS:

$250 to

$500.

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It’s not painful, but it is a chemical service, which puts some stress on your hair. If you have superfine or damaged strands, talk to your stylist—you might want to pass. H O W M U C H I T H U RT S :

HOW IT MAKES LIFE EASIER:

“I have naturally unruly hair that takes forever to style. An annual smoothing treatment simplifies my routine. It also makes traveling internationally a breeze, as I don’t need to worry about voltage and outlet differences.” —Pia Velasco, 30 Smoothing treatments can lighten or fade your hair color. With some versions, you can’t wash your hair or wear a ponytail for a few days afterward. N E E D T O K N O W:

$80 to $250. Results last four to six weeks. HOW MUCH IT COSTS:

No pain, but you’ll notice a chemical smell. H O W M U C H I T H U RT S :

HOW IT MAKES LIFE EASIER:

“My brows are wider and lifted, giving me a more youthful look. I no longer pencil them in.” —Clementina Richardson, 49 Skip this one if you have sensitive skin, derms say. And space out appointments to avoid overprocessing the hairs, which can lead to damage. N E E D T O K N O W:

GUIDES

B E AU T Y G OA L

Smoother skin HOW IT MAKES LIFE EASIER:

T R E AT M E N T

Botox A doctor injects this neuromodulator to temporarily relax muscles under fine lines and wrinkles. It’s most commonly used to reduce crow’s-feet, horizontal forehead lines, and “11” lines between the brows. W H AT I T E N TA I L S :

Some doctors charge $20 to $35 per unit. It takes about 20 units to relax “11” lines. Some charge by area—say, $500 for your entire forehead. HOW MUCH IT COSTS:

The needle prick is slightly painful, but applying numbing cream and ice a few minutes beforehand takes the edge off. H O W M U C H I T H U RT S :

“I was hesitant to get it because I didn’t want to look frozen, so I didn’t start until I was 38. But once I noticed my smooth skin, I was sold. My makeup looks nicer, and I don’t need to use as much, since I appear more awake. I can throw on tinted moisturizer and blush and leave the house.” —Jennifer Ekstrom, 39 You could see results in as few as five days, but give it about two weeks to fully kick in. While you can apply makeup and go about your life immediately after the treatment, don’t work out for 24 hours, or the product might spread. N E E D T O K N O W:

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Next-Level Habits That Will Improve Your Life D e e p e n y o u r c o n n e c t i o n to y o u r c o m m u n i t y, yo u r fa m i l y, a n d yo u rs e l f w i th th e s e i d e a s .

TRUNK ARCHIVE

BY C H R I S C A N D E R

70 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Photograph by Emmanuelle Hauguel

Live intentionally, not accidentally.

Respect the power of rituals. When I help my clients get organized, the first thing I ask is “What’s not working?” We talk about how they’d like their days to look, and we move toward that. Say they want to get everyone out of the house on weekdays by 7 a.m. It’s doable as long as the whole family establishes a routine, like putting backpacks by the door before bed. Made together, decisions can become nonnegotiable rituals that underscore each person’s importance.

Rituals promote a sense of community and help us cope, celebrate, grieve, and commemorate. During the pandemic, we lost access to many of our rites of passage. When high schoolers mourned the cancellation of their graduation in 2020, there was some scolding about keeping things in perspective. But those critics missed the point. That walk across the stage represents an important change of status for the students. In your own life, think critically about the rituals you engage in. This gives you agency to strengthen the ones that are meaningful, eliminate those that aren’t, and discover new ones. CRISTINE LEGARE, PHD, IS A PSYCHOLOGY PROFESSOR AT THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN.

WENDY ELLIN IS THE AUTHOR OF WORKING FROM HOME…HOW’S THAT WORKING FOR YOU?

Opening our eyes to nature’s delights allows us to connect with life right where we are.

3 Slow down to engage deeply. As a child, I’d walk around looking for distractions: Maybe someone left their sprinkler on, or I’d find enough coins to buy some penny candy. As an adult, I lead walking tours around Houston, teaching people how to look not for pennies, but for peace. The more they seek, the more they find—a bird nesting in a tree, an elderly couple with stories to share. To me, a daily walk is a way of meditating without the pressure of doing it “right.” Opening our eyes to nature’s delights allows us to connect with life right where we are. LAURA CONELY IS THE FOUNDER OF URBAN PATHS.

4 Identify loving habits in your relationship. To establish meaningful relationship rituals, talk to your partner about what gestures matter the most to you both. Do you love it when your spouse prepares the coffee and leaves your favorite mug out for you? Let them know it makes you feel loved. Then find out what the other person interprets as an expression of love—it might not be what you expect. These acts encourage you to think about each other favorably, which creates a positive feedback loop.

5 Find art in a daily commitment. Within the first hour of my daughter’s life, she changed so much that it startled me. I decided to shoot a few minutes of video of her every day, using the same blanket as a background. Each birthday, I put together a compilation from the previous year to share with family, and that too became a ritual. When she was 20, I completed a five-minute time-lapse video of her life that is pure and powerful and raw. Now widely shared, displayed, and imitated as an art piece, that video (and the one I did of her younger brother) is a magnum opus for our family. FRANS HOFMEESTER IS A VISUAL ARTIST AND FILMMAKER WHOSE WORKS INCLUDE PORTRAIT OF LOTTE, 0 TO 20 YEARS.

JULIANA HAUSER, PHD, IS A RELATIONSHIP EXPERT AND THERAPIST.

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Modern Manners Advice for Your Social Quandaries BY C AT H E R I N E N E W M A N

J . M . A S K S…

When I have dinner guests, I offer decaf coffee and tea with dessert. I put out cream and sugar, and then my guests act like they’re at Starbucks: Do I have dairy-free creamer? What about a sugar substitute? Is the tea green or white? I end up searching my cupboards and can’t relax after the meal. Is it rude of them to make such requests?

A . P. A S K S…

Our neighbors have a huge golden retriever puppy, who they don’t leash. Our backyard is fenced, but not the front yard, and the dog has jumped on our guests and me. I’m glad it wasn’t my wife, who’s much smaller (we’re both seniors). All we get is “Sorry.” Our town has leash ordinances, but they’re not enforced. What can I do to put an end to this while keeping things peaceful?

H AV E A N E T I Q U E T T E Q U E S T I O N ?

Hover your phone’s camera here to submit your question for Catherine, or email her at modernmanners@realsimple.com.

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The good news about puppies is that they can grow out of many of their most annoying habits, like jumping on everybody and chewing up underpants. The bad news, of course, is that they get bigger. Given that you and your wife are seniors, this fact is of serious concern. I would lead with it: “Your puppy is so friendly, but my wife and I are getting older, and we’re afraid we’ll be knocked down. Can you please help us figure out a way to keep him out of our yard?” Your neighbors may seem unconcerned about their bounding bruiser of a baby, but alerting them to the danger of injury may well motivate them to socialize—or leash—him.

Their requests are rude if they make them rudely, but there’s nothing inherently wrong with graciously asking for what you want. It’s also fine if a host can’t fulfill every last desire. You don’t have to feel bad about it—or rummage around like a resentful barista. If you don’t have the exact hazelnut creamer they’re after? Just say so! Or cue them to their choices: “Would you like black tea or decaf coffee? There’s cream and sugar too.” In the event that somebody has a food sensitivity, you can try to remember to get the oat milk for next time.

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

LIVES

B . L . A S K S… L .V. A S K S…

Where should people put their masks when they sit down at a restaurant? Surely not on the table?

The public-health focus has been on getting people to wear their masks and wear them correctly, so we haven’t really had a chance to work out the finer points of etiquette. Luckily, the mask on the table is unlikely to get anybody sick. But that doesn’t mean you want to see it there, the same way you might not want to see a wadded-up tissue next to a person’s plate. Plus, if you’ve decided to share a meal unmasked, you may dislike the reminder of the pandemic we’re busy trying to survive. Fold the mask so the outside stays on the outside, then tuck it away inside a pocket or bag. And for good measure, the CDC recommends sanitizing your hands after removing your mask.

N . B . A S K S…

Each year, I care less about made-up holidays like Mother’s Day, but many people in my extended family are really into them. I have very close relationships with my parents and grandmothers, but I hate to waste a beautiful Sunday sitting inside and eating unhealthy party food when I’d much rather be out hiking or biking. To me, that’s what a real celebration would look like. Is it OK to slowly distance myself from the forced get-togethers?

Can you propose an outdoor picnic instead of an indoor brunch? Can you bring a fruit salad to offset the carbathon? Are there other compromises you could make without simply disappearing from these gatherings? Because as much as I hear you, if I were to quibble with a single word in your question, it would be “waste.” One reason you have these close relationships is likely that you take good care of what your older family members want and need. And if these gatherings mean a lot to them, then it’s not time wasted—even if the conventions don’t suit you. Enjoy their company, then ride your bike.

My parents are wonderful grandparents, and I tell them so often. But my three kids always reek of my mom’s perfume after seeing her. My husband is sensitive to fragrances, and I don’t like the smell. I gently asked her not to wear the perfume, and she freaked out and will barely talk to me. Was I being unreasonable?

“It’s not you, it’s us,” you can tell her when you next speak— though it’s not just you either, since roughly 30 percent of the U.S. population suffers adverse effects from scented products. (Perfume wearers, take note! One person’s signature scent is another person’s migraine.) Perhaps her anger is covering up embarrassment; she’s been wearing her scent all this time only to find out you’ve never liked it. Or maybe she felt you were judging not only her fragrant self-expression but also, somehow, who she is. The best way to find out what she’s feeling is to ask. Then apologize if you’ve hurt her, problem-solve as needed, and remind her (again) how much she matters to you.

A B O U T 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, Catherine Newman gets advice from her husband and two opinionated, largely grown children in Amherst, Massachusetts.

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O N E-A N D-D O N E T R AV E L

Blue Skies and Palm Trees Forever B eyo n d th e e n d l e ss s u n s h i n e , Pa l m Sp r i n g s , C a l i fo r n i a , of fe rs g re a t fo o d , c o o l h ote l s , a r t , cu l t u re , a n d o u td o o r fu n . BY M UZ A M AG H A

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Trip Details LENGTH

5 days

E S T I M AT E D B U D G E T

$500 a day per person H O W TO G E T T H E R E

F L I G H T O F FA N TA S Y When I travel, I want to try a little of everything while also having time to relax and do nothing. Usually, the struggle is real to find a spot that’s easy to fly to, has great weather year-round (for impromptu get-out-of-Dodge long weekends), and provides enough to do on the nonlazy days. Palm Springs, I discovered, gives me all of this. And the views! The photo ops! I’m pretty sure I audibly gasped when I landed at the airport and took in the beauty of the San Jacinto Mountains. I couldn’t believe how picturesque everything was—even the people. Everyone seemed to be wearing chic sandals and midcentury modern clothes (is that even a thing?). I felt like an outlier, with my dark denim and black leather jacket. I made a quick mental list: Check into hotel; change into something else, anything else; and start exploring. Here are some places I hit.

Fly direct from many major cities, or take a two-hour drive from Los Angeles.

TREES AND BREEZE Driving and hiking around Joshua Tree National Park, I felt like I’d stepped onto another planet as I scoped out the rock formations, vast overlooks, and quirky, spiky Joshua trees. If actually leaving earth is your thing—and you don’t need beta-blockers for your acrophobia—get fired up for a Fantasy Balloon Flight hot-air balloon ride (available October to April). You’ll enjoy views of Palm Springs, a mod “forest” of windmills, the Coachella Valley, and the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa mountain ranges.

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S TAY Some people refer to the Saguaro Palm Springs as “the rainbow hotel,” due to a colorful exterior paint job that’s so eye-catching, it demands a grid post on Instagram. But it’s not just about looks: The place has hip vibes and a great pool scene. If you want a smaller, more intimate, adults-only spot, there’s the Fleur Noire Hôtel, a collection of art-filled casitas and suites. Margaritaville Resort, as the name suggests, is the brain baby of singer Jimmy Buffett, but the place is a good hang even if you’re not a Parrot Head—and especially if you’re traveling with kids and grandparents.

Hotel Specs S A G UA RO PA L M S P R I N G S

It didn’t take long (a.k.a. the ride between the airport and hotel) for me to open Zillow and start dreaming about how I could move there.

Each of the 244 rooms has a balcony or patio. You choose whether you want a view of the mountains, skyline, pool, courtyard, or garden. From $181 a night; thesaguaro.com. F L E U R N O I R E H ÔT E L

E AT If you’re a taco aficionado like I am, go to El Jefe, the tequila and taco bar at the Saguaro. The nachos quickly became my favorite late-afternoon snack. I’m a bit of a sushi expert too (what are the chances?), and I dug into the inventive rolls—one is even called the Experiment—at Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey. When I craved comfort food, I hit 1501 Uptown Gastropub to sit outside. The menu is so good, it’s hard to decide on just one thing.

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The 21 bungalows, casitas, and suites at this all-adult property lean into the boho-desert aesthetic, with a common courtyard shaded by ironwood trees. From $250 a night; fleurnoirehotel.com. M A RGA R I TAV I L L E R E S O RT PA L M S P R I N G S

For a bit of the tropics in the desert, visit this 398-room island-themed resort. Pets— dogs, cats, and, of course, birds—are welcome. From about $200 a night; margaritavilleresorts.com.

LIVES

TO U R ( A N D D R E A M )

H O T- A I R B A L L O O N I M A G E C O U R T E S Y O F L A U R A H U N T L I T T L E O F V I S I T G R E AT E R PA L M S P R I N G S ; I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F M U Z A M A G H A ( 6 )

Palm Springs is a mecca for midcentury modern architecture; driving around, you feel like you’ve been air-dropped into the best episode of House Hunters. During Modernism Week, you can actually go inside homes and see seriously authentic furniture and interior design. After just one walk-through—or gawk-through—I was ready to move right in. More than 350 other events fill out the 11-day festival (this year it’s slated for February 17 to 27), including films, lectures, and bus tours.

A RT A N D C O M M E RC E I love a museum that gives me a sense of a place but doesn’t overwhelm me with its size. The Palm Springs Art Museum has a cool collection, including a sculpture garden popping with desert plants, and exhibits, like Gonzalo Lebrija’s History of Suspended Time (below). It’s just a few blocks from the main shopping drag, Palm Canyon Drive.

RO C K S A N D RO L L Nothing says “rugged desert adventurer” like zipping around the landscapes of Palm Springs in an open-air Jeep. Desert Adventures’ Red Jeep Tours offers a variety of trips, and you can mix in some hiking as well. Book the “Bones of the Earth” tour if you want to catch a gorgeous sunset while winding through the cuts of the San Andreas Fault Zone canyons.

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THE HELPFUL MIND

Type A Is A-OK C o n s c i e nt i o u s p e o p l e d o n’t j u st h a ve m o re o rg a n i ze d s p i c e ra c ks . T h ey c a n a c t u a l l y l i ve l o n g e r, s c i e n c e h a s fo u n d . H e re’s h ow th e re st of u s c a n l e a r n to e n j oy th e d e l i g ht s of d i l i g e n c e .

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STO C KSY

BY M A RTA Z A R A S K A

P h o t o g r a p h s b y Pe p i n o d e M a r S t u d i o

LIVES

over a stray sneaker, you know the health hazards of messiness. Yet research shows that keeping things tidy can affect our physical well-being far beyond preventing injuries. Conscientiousness—the personality trait that organized, responsible people typically possess—has been linked to lower levels of inflammation, less risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and greater longevity. The trait is so good for you, says Brent W. Roberts, PhD, a personality researcher at the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign, that “it would be wonderful to bottle the effect and deliver it as an elixir.” Though conscientiousness may not sound so exciting—organizing your desk, getting to appointments on time, double-checking your work, dusting even the hard-toreach places—the health effects are anything but dull. Studies reveal that being highly meticulous can lower your mortality risk by 35 percent—more than the famed Mediterranean diet. Conscientious people tend to be at a healthier weight, walk faster, and have stronger lung function and grip strength than the messier among us. They also have a lower risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and are 20 percent less likely to get headaches. What’s more, research shows that having these qualities as a child can lead to better health up to 40 years down the road. (Whip out that tidbit next time you’re urging your kids to follow the monthsuntouched chore wheel on the fridge door.) Here’s how conscientiousness can improve your health, and how even scatterbrains can ease onto the straight and narrow path. I F YO U ’ V E E V E R T R I P P E D

What if you’re constantly running late and your desk looks like a yard sale hit by a tornado? Research suggests you can train yourself to be more conscientious.

Why Level-Headed Types Live Longer Conscientious people tend to make smarter choices, like eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and following medical advice. They’re more likely to form stable friendships and wear seat belts—not to mention abstain from fistfights (studies exist to prove it!). However, Roberts says, “health behaviors don’t provide the entire answer.” Fastidious people also have a better relationship with stress. They often thrive when their lives feel controlled and stable—think structured days and a relatively predictable future. This can lead to “less conflict, so fewer stressors in general, which is healthier,” says Angelina Sutin, PhD, a behavioral sciences and social medicine professor at Florida State University College of Medicine. Science reveals that people who are good at meeting deadlines and maintaining tidy surroundings can have lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which has been linked to a litany

of afflictions, from diabetes to cancer to heart disease. When hardships do happen, neat freaks tend to cope better. Studies show they focus on problem-solving and “cognitive restructuring”—that is, changing negative thoughts into more balanced, positive ones. They’re also more likely to seek help. As Sutin explains, when stressors arise, instead of thinking, “What a disaster,” they tend to ask, “How can I get through it?” Inflammation may also play a role. “People who are more conscientious have healthier inflammatory profiles,” Sutin says. Regardless of their other health habits, like diet and exercise, they tend to have lower levels of interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein, common markers of inflammation. Just like stress, chronic inflammation can lead to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. (Interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein are also associated with severe Covid-19.)

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If you happen to be a cross between Marie Kondo and Parks and Recreation’s Leslie Knope, this is all great news. But what if you’re constantly running late, your socks never match, and your desk looks like a yard sale that was hit by a tornado? Some research suggests you can train yourself to be more conscientious.

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In one of Roberts’s experiments, published last year, more than 1,500 volunteers were placed in two groups. One group received a smartphone app designed to help boost conscientiousness, while the other group was simply waitlisted. The app featured diary-keeping resources, videos on personality change, and micro-interventions that nudged the participants to plan and organize better. Every Sunday, the app sent three new assignments for the week, and participants chose

STO C KSY

Worry Not, Slobs— There’s Hope!

one to complete: to tidy a part of their home every day, say, or to do things right away instead of procrastinating. Over the course of the three-month intervention, the participants experienced noticeable boosts of scrupulousness, as observed by both themselves and their friends and family. If this sounds appealing, Roberts suggests you start by breaking tasks down into bite-size chunks you can work on every day. “Think of it like training for a race or giving up smoking. It takes time and effort,” he says. One day, organize the icons on your phone’s home screen; on another day, try to pay a bill as soon as you receive it. The payoff is certainly worth it. Not only could you reap the benefits of lower inflammation and cortisol levels, you may also find it easier to lead a healthier lifestyle. Research suggests that once people focus more on neatness and organizing, they tend to pick up healthier behaviors, like eating better and exercising more. And, as a side effect, you may enjoy an Instagramready house with no stray sneakers to threaten your safety.

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Photograph by RoGina Montgomer y

LIVES

WE DID IT

C O N Q U E R E D A C O S T LY M E D I C A L M O U N TA I N

Meet three women who navigated challenging health situations— and the money and insurance stress that came with them. BY J E N N Y C O M I TA

“My Chronic Illness Is a Financial Burden” Maxcine Jones PEORIA, ILLINOIS

Americans, living with a chronic illness means balancing the demands of a disease with the realities of everyday existence. Maxcine Jones is well aware of the strength required to pull off that high-wire act. She’s never known life without sickle cell disease, an inherited form of anemia that causes the body to produce misshapen red blood cells. For years, Maxcine worked jobs—at a library and a bank—that weren’t strenuous, and her health remained relatively stable. But her finances suffered as she tried to raise her son and pay off medical bills. Enticed by an excellent benefits package, she took a higherpaying position at Caterpillar, the industrial-equipment manufacturer. The job was easier on her bank account, but tougher on her body. FOR MILLIONS OF

“My first job was the overnight shift,” she says. “And there was a lot of walking. Many nights I had to call my sister and say, ‘Come get me! I’m in so much pain.’ She’d take me right to the hospital.” Today, Maxcine is still at Caterpillar, doing a job she finds less physically taxing: assembling bulldozers. Though the work involves lifting the occasional power tool, she can use hoists and rely on her partner to step in when she needs a hand. Thanks to her new job, she was able to buy her own home. But, she says, “I can’t really remember a time when I didn’t have some medical debt.” She’s currently paying off two surgeries. “I have one bill that’s $60 a month, and another is $80,” she says. “I just finished paying off a third. I always call the billing department and ask them, ‘How can I keep the payments as low as possible?’ And they’re really good about it. Ignoring the bill is the last thing they want you to do.” M A K E I T W O R K F O R YO U

The question of how and when to disclose a health condition to an employer can be an added source of stress. There is no one-sizefits-all answer, says career coach Rosalind Joffe, who specializes in helping people with chronic illness

thrive at work. The Americans with Disabilities Act grants employees certain protections, but if you decide to be open about your illness, it’s important to talk about it as something you have experience living with. You want to make it clear that it won’t be a problem for others, that you will take care of what needs to be done, and that your employer can trust you to handle the situation. Basically, what they need to hear from you is “I’ve got this.”

I always call the billing department and ask them, “How can I keep the payments as low as possible?”

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LIVES

“I Negotiated a Sky-High Hospital Bill” Anna Kelly DENVER

Anna Kelly was shopping for short-term health insurance to tide her over between college graduation and the beginning of a teaching job in South Korea, she made a point of asking one make-or-break question. “I said, ‘Which plan would cover an airlift?’ ” she remembers. “And that’s the one I bought.” Helicopter coverage might sound like a strange criterion, but for Anna, a rock climber originally from rural Colorado, the possibility of needing to be flown to an emergency room didn’t seem so far-fetched. As it turns out, a few months later, she found herself being loaded into a chopper after falling off a 45-foot cliff. The real surprise: Because of a technicality, that hour-long flight was not, in fact, IN 2008, WHEN

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covered. (The fine print said only one form of transportation per accident could be claimed, and in Anna’s case, an ambulance moved her 200 feet to get her to the helicopter.) Add on a 10-day hospital stay to treat her broken back and shattered ankle, and the out-of-pocket grand total came to $250,000. For several years, Anna was unaware of that staggering number. “I knew there were bills,” says the mother of two, who works for an energy company in Denver. “But my parents were handling them while I was in South Korea.” Her folks made monthly payments and negotiated with the hospital to get other bills forgiven. In 2012, thanks to her parents’ diligence, the balance was a muchreduced $13,000—most of it the helicopter bill. But it was $13,000 Anna simply didn’t have. One day a collections agency called, “and I honestly felt like I’d have terrible credit forever,” she says. “The agent said if I gave them a credit card number right then, over the phone, they’d charge me eight grand and make it go away. So I did that. I didn’t know that I could ask for this in writing, or that I could defer. That was when I started learning the rules about insurance.”

Swallow down that rising pit of anxiety and ask for what you need.

In the years since, she’s put that knowledge to good use. After a follow-up ankle surgery, she received an unexpected $6,000 bill from an anesthesiologist she’d been told was in-network. Anna was incensed. “I called the billing department and told them, ‘I will pay you $400 today to discharge this $6,000 debt, or I will let you sell it for collections and you will never make a penny. You choose.’ They ran my card for $400, and I’ve done that ever since.” Anna acknowledges this was a big win, and how much you end up saving depends on your situation. But, she says, it doesn’t hurt to ask. M A K E I T W O R K F O R YO U

Many women are conditioned to be accommodating and polite, says Anna, who started a business that helps people negotiate medical bills. But when you’re fighting a bill, be firm. “Swallow down that rising pit of anxiety and ask for what you need.” Go through your explanation of benefits with a fine-tooth comb, she adds. “Sometimes insurance will say something is not covered because of a small exclusion in the policy, but when you actually check, you see they’ve made a mistake. One of the most common things is insurance misapplying a deductible because the bill isn’t up to date with what you’ve paid so far.” Send the bill back to insurance and ask them to reprocess it. You might be surprised how much that can impact your out-of-pocket costs, Anna says.

“We Dealt with Costly Fertility Treatments” Kara George AUSTIN, TEXAS

just shy of 30, Kara George never considered she might have a fertility issue when she and her husband, C.J., started trying to conceive in 2016. “We thought it would be very simple and quick and we’d have a baby,” says Kara, who works as an analyst for a parks system. When the couple conceived in just two months, life seemed to be headed in that direction. But she miscarried at about seven weeks—the first of four lost pregnancies. After undergoing a battery of tests, Kara and C.J. learned IVF was their best option. The problem: “Neither one of our insurance plans covered fertility treatment,” Kara says. At a clinic close to home, they were quoted more than $30,000 for one cycle of IVF.

H E A D S H O T S : C O U R T E S Y O F A N N A K E L LY; C O U R T E S Y O F K A R A G E O R G E

A S A H E A LT H Y W O M A N

“We absolutely did not have that money,” she says. “So I started researching other options.” She found CNY Fertility, a clinic with nine locations in the U.S. and Canada. It was launched with the express purpose of minimizing the often exorbitant cost of fertility treatments. The prices were, indeed, much lower—about $8,000 per cycle at the time—and Kara heard from several women who’d had successful outcomes with the practice. But there was a hitch: The closest center was in Syracuse, New York. Luckily, though the couple’s jobs didn’t provide coverage, they did offer flexibility. Kara’s position was entirely remote, so she could work anywhere, and C.J., who traveled constantly, was coincidentally assigned a project in New York. Even with the hassle and expense of travel, they saved thousands— especially considering that, in the end, they needed much more treatment than they’d bargained for. Over the next 21/2 years, they experienced unsuccessful IVF transfers and the heartbreak of miscarrying. They took six months to emotionally recover, then the pandemic hit and Kara lost her job. While the layoff was stressful, it allowed Kara to look for a position that offered fertility coverage. She found one—her current gig—in May 2020. The benefit was capped at $2,500 annually, but that was almost enough to cover an embryo transfer in Texas (they had their

A clinic quoted more than $30,000 for one cycle of IVF. “We absolutely did not have that money.”

frozen embryos shipped from New York). And then, finally, success. After a pregnancy that was unusual only in that it occurred during a global pandemic, Kara gave birth to their son, Nolan, last February. Today the Georges are grateful for every day with their baby. “My husband and I will just look at each other sometimes and say, ‘I can’t believe we have a kid!’ It almost feels too good to be true,” Kara says. “Obviously, the expense and heartbreak were worth it.” M A K E I T W O R K F O R YO U

“If your employer doesn’t provide fertility benefits, talk to them about adding it,” says Betsy Campbell, chief engagement officer of Resolve, a national nonprofit that advocates for those struggling with fertility. Often employers don’t even realize there’s this gap in their insurance coverage until an employee tells them. Explore financing programs and grants too (head to resolve.org for a list). Patients should also talk with their clinic about any discounts. Some have bundle programs and may offer their own financing.

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FIRST PERSON

SINGING A NEW TUNE

Growing up, Nina LaCour was convinced she had no musical talent and felt too self-conscious to belt out a song. Decades later, with her loving family as audience, she found her voice.

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Illustration by Anne Bentley

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

a story about a trip we took when I was about 4 years old. In the story, I sit in the middle of my grandpa’s living room in Florida with his acoustic guitar on my lap, strumming my heart out, singing at the top of my lungs, composing songs on the spot, as the adults attempt to have a conversation. “I was so embarrassed,” my mother says at the end of the story. “You were so loud.” There’s another one about how, whenever I sang along with the radio, I was so off-key that she devised a test to see if I was tone-deaf. It turns out I was not, a fact she found surprising. I’ve always loved to sing, but I’ve also always known that I’m terrible at it, and I care about being good at the things I do. So when I signed up for Zoom ukulele and singing classes during the height of the pandemic, I surprised even myself. Still, I knew I had to do something. My wife, our 7-yearold daughter, and I were crammed in our San Francisco apartment, escaping only for quick neighborhood walks. I’d just written three books in a row while we attempted to homeschool and cook every meal and work full-time. I was tired and burned out and I needed a change. I found myself doing vocal warm-ups in front of my computer screen, stepping in time with my ukulele held to my chest, strumming a C chord over and over. I sang along with the instructor as we learned simple children’s songs. I teared up when he told us, “If you’re struggling, slow down. Be gentle with yourselves.” I kept playing after the hour-long lessons ended, learning the chords and strumming patterns to songs I liked, singing until my voice sounded different: fuller, louder, more at ease. Sometimes I lost myself in it. Most of the time, though, I thought about my neighbor upstairs (was I bothering her?) and my wife on conference calls in the living room (did she resent me for spending time on this when there were so many chores to do?) and my daughter, who was alone in her room with Legos and an audiobook, who I should have been devoting my attention to. Playing music was selfish. Playing music was loud. How embarrassing, I thought. Yet I continued to practice. And I improved. I recorded myself from time to time to see if what I perceived might be true: that I was an OK ukulele player and singer. Not good by any means, but decent. Not embarrassing. Up until that point, I’d only practiced in my office with the door Y MOTHER LIKES TO TELL

My wife wasn’t listening, and my daughter was surely asleep, so I let myself play louder. Then I finished a song, and I heard something. Clapping.

closed, but one night, after tucking my daughter into bed, I ventured into the living room. My wife had earbuds in as she washed dishes. My daughter would be sleeping soon. So it was safe, I thought, to practice quietly on the sofa. I played softly, sang just above a whisper. Incredible, how with steady practice my fingers had learned to change chords. I didn’t even have to think about it. I could now sing a melody without losing the strumming pattern— something that had once felt impossible. I went through my repertoire of songs, then looked up some new ones and fumbled my way through them, learning new chord transitions, messing up and pausing, slowing down just as my teacher had told us to. My wife wasn’t listening, and my daughter was surely asleep, so I let myself play louder. Then I finished a song, and I heard something. Clapping. I looked up and saw my wife in the doorway, earbuds around her neck, beaming at me. From the other room came more applause and a whoop from our daughter. We laughed, and she joined us in the room. “I thought you were sleeping,” I said. “Why would I sleep when I can listen to you?” ABOUT THE AU T H O R she asked. Nina LaCour My wife said, “Hearing your music fill the writes books house is one of my very favorite things.” for children, Sometimes it takes a dramatic event to shift including Mama and Mommy and the way you see yourself. But sometimes it takes Me in the Middle, something small—the people you love most, a and adults. Her novel Yerba moment of surprise, the realization that you’re Buena comes out fully loved exactly the way you are. That even this spring. if you’re not a great ukulele player and your voice will only ever be mediocre at best, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t sing your heart out. We tucked our daughter back into bed. My wife sat down with a book on the couch. “Play a couple more songs, OK?” my daughter called from the other room. “OK,” I said, and I picked up my ukulele again.

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A N SPECIAL PARTNER SECTION

SNOW MUCH FUN

C RYS TA L M O U N TA I N

Embrace the Natural Wonders of Nor t hern Michigan

Welcome winter with a gloved high ﬁve—head to the northwest corner of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. It’s the season the way you remember it (or picture it), with people happily playing in the kind of pure, perfect snow that weighs on evergreens and turns golf courses into cross-country ski locales. It’s Pure Michigan. And when you’re worn out or just need a warm-up, there’s more to enjoy inside. Resorts, distilleries and wineries offer gateways to memorable adventures. Explore the top of the Mitten at your speed.

SPECIAL PARTNER SECTION

I R O N F I S H D I S T I L L E RY

fast forward

Slope-side lodging provides easy access to Crystal Mountain’s 58 runs and five terrain parks in Thompsonville. Afterward, ease those aching muscles with a full-body massage at Crystal Spa. In Bellaire, Shanty Creek Resort’s two mountains are known for skiing, snowboarding and tubing. Guests looking for a downhill break can go dog sledding, fat biking and snowshoeing. Double the fun at Boyne. This duo of resorts, Boyne Mountain in Boyne Falls and Boyne Highlands in Harbor Springs, delivers family fun inside (water park at Boyne Mountain) and out (skiing/boarding, fat biking, horseback riding, and more).

a little slower

Art, nature and history strike the perfect balance at Thompsonville’s Michigan Legacy Art Park. Four interconnected trails lead to 50 large-scale sculptures. (Rent snowshoes and cross-country skis at Crystal Mountain.)

SHANTY CREEK RESORT

On the Leelanau Peninsula, snowshoe alongside vines at wineries such as Black Star Farms and Mawby Sparkling. Cross-country ski, hike or snowshoe at Brys Estate Vineyard and Winery on the Old Mission Peninsula.

eas y doe s it

A shuttle whisks Shanty Creek Resort guests to downtown Bellaire, home of Short’s Brewing Company.

M AW BY S PA R K L I N G

MICHIG AN.ORG B OY N E H I G H L A N D S R E S O R T

The Time of Your Life A GUIDE TO MAKING YO UR HO UR S M AT T E R M O R E A my M a c l i n I L L U S T R A T I O N S B Y A n d re a M o n g i a BY

of our adult lives, we’re acutely aware of time—how we can maximize it, savor it, finagle more of it by multitasking. But during the pandemic, time got…weird. It stretched into eternity, as one Groundhog Day looped into another. It sped forward, as we forgot what life was like in the Great Before, when we could freely breathe on each other in elevators. It flattened, as our lives turned into one scheduleless, sometimes showerless limbo. And once time stopped meaning anything, we realized it meant everything. It’s dawning on many of us that there are certain parts of our prepandemic lives we want to give up forever: crazy commutes, PTA meetings held at the most inconvenient times, the endless checklists that once made us feel “productive.” F O R J U S T A B O U T E V E RY M O M E N T

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best intentions R E A DY T O S AY C A R P E D I E M ? L I F E C O A C H EL AINE KIZIAH SUGGESTS A JOURNAL

In a recent survey, we asked REAL SIMPLE readers what they wanted their postpandemic lives to look like. They shared thoughts like these: “I only want to spend time with a smaller group of people now.” “I’ll never go back to going to every event, every party, saying yes to every invitation.” “I just don’t have the patience to put up with the stuff I used to.” The fact that our time is limited can be both daunting and freeing. Oliver Burkeman, a former better-living columnist for the Guardian who’s tried every timemanagement technique in the book, decided to call his own book Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals. That 4,000 weeks translates to 76.9 years, close to the average human life span. “When I’d ask friends to guess how many weeks we get, one put it in the six figures. But 310,000 weeks is basically all of human history, from the ancient Sumerians in Mesopotamia.” Though the idea of a paltry 4,000 weeks made him “queasy” at first, he now says, “I like that number because it shows how short our time is.” Time no longer seems like a thing to be managed (as if we were ever really in charge) but a precious resource. Here, experts share wisdom on how to make your hours feel more like your own.

E X E R C I S E T O H E L P YO U PA U S E A N D R E F L E C T. PA RT 1: Make two lists in response to

these questions: A . Over the past year, which investments of your time, energy, and attention offered the biggest returns for you? B . Which investments last year didn’t serve you? Consider things like roles and relationships, projects and tasks, self-development, self-care, recreation, and even small recurring activities or distractions. Focus on returns that feel authentically meaningful to you, regardless of what other people might think. PA RT 2: Review the lists you just made. What are

you discovering as you look at them? Do you want to make any adjustments going forward? Imagine a future version of yourself who’s wise and compassionate, and invite them to write a short message to you in response to these questions. For more of Kiziah’s prompts, as well as a selection of her courses and seminars, go to joybook.life/challenge.

Eschew the Old To-Do List Lists can be powerful tools, but instead of reducing your priorities to a set of bullet-pointed actions—see friends more, find a hobby, limit YouTube—Elaine Kiziah, PhD, a life coach in Richmond, Virginia, who teaches workshops on soulful time management, recommends the opposite: Stop taking action. Instead, sit down with a journal and create what she calls a “mind map.” Ask yourself what’s no longer serving you and why. What brings you real joy? She says, “One of my favorite journaling exercises is to pause at the end of the day and ask, ‘What is today teaching me about how to live tomorrow?’ ” If you balk at adding another obligation to the daily roster, Kiziah gently notes that even a five-minute writing session can make a big difference, and that part of the power of journaling lies in the pause itself. “It’s so easy

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to get pulled in the direction of whatever is on fire at the moment. But when we look at the bigger picture, we can make wiser choices. There’s a quote attributed to the psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor Viktor E. Frankl: ‘Between stimulus and response, there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.’ Journaling can give us that space.” Though a bucket list may seem like a gather-yerosebuds distillation of life goals, Burkeman points out, it actually tends to generate dissatisfaction. “You run into what I call ‘existential overwhelm,’ ” he says. “It fuels this ridiculous modern affliction of the fear of missing out— that you’re not going to do all the things you want to, and that there’s probably something going on right now that could be better than what you’re doing.”

Plan to Fail

our finest hours W E A S K E D R E A D E R S A N D S TA F F E R S : H O W A R E YO U P R I O R I T I Z I N G YO U R T I M E D I F F E R E N T LY L AT E LY ? H AV E YO U L E T G O O F B O R I N G C O M M I T M E N T S , D R A I N I N G R E L AT I O N S H I P S , O R R O U T I N E S T H AT N O LO N G E R S E E M W O RT H W H I L E ?

“I’ve unfollowed people on my social feeds I don’t relate to anymore, and accounts that only promote shopping or complaining.” @NICKYB_911

“I regularly say no to logging on before 10 a.m. My days are long, I work late, and the morning is about getting myself in the right mental space for the day. I say yes to opportunities to connect. Even if I don’t feel like it or getting to the location feels like too much effort, I am always boosted and energized by spending time connecting with people I love.” @TINABR A Z

“I’ve recently started saying ‘hard pass’ to group texts of more than three people and checking social media on the weekends. Once 5 p.m. on Friday rolls around, I normally turn off my phone and boot it back up on Sunday evening.” R AC H E L SYLV E ST E R, S E N I O R E D I T O R

“No to keeping my house Monica Geller clean. Plain old clean is fine. Yes to flossing every single night, no excuses.” @SLEEPYDEXTER

“Yes: prayer, coffee, and cuddles with my kids. No: frugal spending, late meetings, and weekend work.” @ M E L I N DA._R

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The silver lining to our 4,000 weeks: In that limited time, it’s going to be impossible to do everything we need, want, and feel obliged to do—so there’s no need to try. “In Jon Acuff’s book Finish, he recommends deciding in advance what we’ll bomb,” Burkeman says. “That removes what he calls ‘the sting of shame’ surrounding it.” Obviously, there are some things you can’t completely bomb, Burkeman admits, like putting dinner on the table for your kids. However, he says, “I believe in strategic underachievement—nominating areas of our life in which we won’t expect excellence of ourselves, at least for a while. There is scope to fail on a cyclical basis.” Maybe while you’re working on your big nonprofit project, the kids can eat microwaved fish sticks several times a week.

Pay Yourself First Another way to resist the pull of that hypothetical, fantastical future in which every shelf is organized, every family event planned, every expired mascara thrown in the trash— leaving us finally free to do what we really want—is to block out time for ourselves on our own schedule. “The graphic

novelist and creativity coach Jessica Abel, borrowing from personal finance advice, came up with ‘pay yourself first’ when it comes to creative work,” Burkeman says. “If you put money in savings as soon as your check comes in, you’ll probably never feel its absence. But if you buy what you need and hope there will be money remaining at the end, you’ll usually find that there isn’t any. When she realized she wasn’t making time for her drawing, she started setting aside time for it daily and accepting the consequences of anything that didn’t get done.”

“I’m really trying to Marie Kondo my time by only saying yes to things that spark joy. One way I do that is by asking myself whether I’ll want to cancel when the time comes to actually do it. And if I say yes and then dread sets in after the fact, I give myself the grace to cancel after all.” L I S A D E S A N T I S, D E P U T Y B E AU T Y D I R E C T O R

Take a Small-Bites Approach The last thing you want to do is turn your quality time into another grim obligation. Say you want to create a definitive family genealogy, but one week into your newly scheduled Morning Research Hour, you realize the digging is hard, day in and day out, and you begin itching to unload the dishwasher or do anything else that will give you a little rush of accomplishment. To keep yourself engaged, try small bites: Just do 10 minutes a day, Kiziah suggests, and offer yourself little rewards. “It’s the Mary Poppins spoonful-of-sugar approach—motivate yourself with pleasure and joy,” she says. “How can you make this ritual as delightful as possible? A cup of tea, some lovely music?”

Be Disappointing The downside of saying yes to ourselves is that we wind up saying no to other people—a challenge for competent caretakers who pride themselves on meeting others’ needs (see also: microwaved fish sticks). “To say no, we need to be grounded in a sense of worthiness,” Kiziah says. Every moment spent on another person’s priorities, however noble, is a moment subtracted from your own goals. If it’s difficult to prioritize, consider this, she suggests: “How might it be a gift to the other person if you said no?” You might be tempted to reluctantly agree to yet another volunteer project—but will you be truly present? Doesn’t this commitment deserve a member whose heart is all in it? Make space for that person by saying no. This doesn’t mean cultivating selfishness. “I’m working on the habit proposed by meditation teacher Joseph Goldstein: Whenever a generous impulse arises—to donate money, check on a friend, send an email praising someone’s work—do it right away,” Burkeman says. “Don’t wait to research the ideal charity or compose a perfect note. If you put it off, you’ll likely never get around to it, and once you’ve invested that time you’ll reliably feel happier.”

“No to weekend day drinking, from which no good ever came. Yes to hour-long walks, or really any walk.” L I Z VACCA R I E L LO, EDITOR IN CHIEF

“I say no to evenings out with vague or no plans. It always ends up being a forgettable and expensive waste of time. I need to know that leaving my house and dogs is going to be worth it.” @ E M I LY K RO D G E R S

“I’m saying yes to more me time. I don’t miss my morning commute, but without it I’m in work mode or mom mode (and usually both at the same time) every second. And I’m saying no to wearing a bra every day.” @ AT R E E G RO W S I N C T

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a delicious

RE BAL ANCE At RE AL SIMPLE, we don’t believe in food guilt or “detox diets.” Sometimes it’s just gratifying to nourish ourselves with wholesome foods and add healthy habits to our routines. These seven dietitianendorsed strategies, plus easy recipes, will help you feel your best. BY

Jenna Helwig

PHOTOGR APHS BY

Greg DuPree

FOOD STYLING BY PROP STYLING BY

Ali Ramee

Audrey Davis komb uch a pomegranate tonic

war m roa s t chicke n salad

1 F E E D YO U R G U T It’s mind-blowing how critical gut health is to overall wellness. “Millions of good bacteria in your gut impact digestion, and about 70 percent of the immune system resides there,” says dietitian Maya Feller, RD, author of The Southern Comfort Food Diabetes Cookbook. “It’s also where some of the body’s mood-supporting neurotransmitters, like serotonin and dopamine, are produced.” One of the best ways to improve your gut health is to eat plenty of foods rich in probiotics, such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, miso, and refrigerated sauerkraut. Kombucha—essentially a fizzy, fermented tea—is another good source. Feller suggests looking for bottles with less than five grams of added sugar per serving. And keep in mind that kombucha contains a very small amount of alcohol, a byproduct of the fermentation process.

2 S TA RT S AVO RY

Ko m b u c h a Pomegranate To n i c ACTIVE TIME 5 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 5 MINUTES SERVES 1

1 lime 2 tsp. roughly chopped unpeeled fresh ginger 3 oz. (a generous 1/3 cup) raw kombucha 1 oz. (2 Tbsp.) pomegranate juice or cranberry juice 1 oz. (2 Tbsp.) club soda, or more if desired a 3-by-1-inch zest strip from lime and cut lime in half. Place 1 half in a large, sturdy mug or cocktail shaker; reserve remaining half for another use. Add ginger to mug. Using bottom of a wooden spoon, muddle lime and ginger, pounding on lime to extract juice.

REMOVE

mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a glass, pressing solids in strainer to extract as much juice as possible. Fill glass halfway with ice. POUR

kombucha and pomegranate juice to glass; stir to combine. Top with soda and garnish with lime zest strip.

ADD

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One easy switch is to ditch added sugars at breakfast. You can still eat fruit, but be aware that muffins, many boxed cereals, and even some yogurts and coffee drinks contain a lot of added sugar. “Those sweet foods don’t usually offer much in the way of fiber, protein, and healthy fats,” says Katie Sullivan Morford, RD, author of the cookbook Rise & Shine. “So you’re starting your day off on a sugar high, without the other nutrients to give you sustained energy.” Morford often gravitates toward savory toasts in the morning, such as smashed avocado on whole-grain bread with thinly sliced radishes and cucumbers. Eggs make regular appearances as well. “Eggs are a mini miracle food,” she says. “There’s so much good nutrition inside that shell, including protein, vitamin D, and important antioxidants.”

Sautéed Hard-Boiled Egg B r e a k fa s t ACTIVE TIME 10 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 10 MINUTES SERVES 1

1 hard-boiled egg, peeled and halved lengthwise 1/8 tsp. kosher salt 1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 2 tsp. olive oil 2 Tbsp. hummus Pita wedges, for serving Fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves and harissa, for serving (optional) both sides of egg halves evenly with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a small nonstick skillet over medium. Add egg halves, cut side down; cook until golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Serve with hummus, pita, and, if using, parsley and harissa. SPRINKLE

3 GO FISH Eating seafood once or (bonus!) twice a week is an easy nutrition boost, Feller says. “Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential nutrients, especially for brain and cardiovascular health.” Get more salmon on your plate by taking advantage of a high-quality canned version—it’s an affordable and versatile pantry staple with the health benefits of fresh fish. “Look for fish packed in BPA-free aluminum cans, with a third-party certification of sustainability,” Feller says. We like the Wild Planet brand, which follows Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch guidelines.

sp e e d y sal mon b urge rs

4 H Y D R AT E W I S E LY

Speedy Salmon B urgers ACTIVE TIME 25 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 25 MINUTES SERVES 4

1/4 cup mayonnaise 2 tsp. fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon) 1/2 tsp. prepared horseradish 3/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided Freshly ground black pepper 1 large egg 1 large egg white 12-14 oz. canned salmon, drained 1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 1/3 cup dried bread crumbs 2 Tbsp. olive oil 4 burger buns, split and toasted 2 cups loosely packed watercress or arugula mayonnaise, lemon juice, horseradish, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a medium bowl; add pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

WHISK

egg into a medium bowl and add egg white; whisk until lightly beaten. Add salmon, mustard, remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste. Stir with a fork until mostly smooth (it’s OK if small salmon chunks remain). Stir in parsley and bread crumbs. Shape mixture into 4 (about 1/2-inch-thick) patties. CRACK

oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium. Add patties; cook, flipping once, until firm and golden, about 3 minutes per side. HEAT

mayonnaise mixture evenly on cut sides of buns. Top bottom buns with watercress and salmon patties. Replace top buns and serve.

SPREAD

You know you should drink water throughout the day. “Even low levels of dehydration can make you fatigued, so drinking enough helps optimize your energy,” says Ellie Krieger, RDN, a television personality and cookbook author. But you can stop being so rigid about the ol’ eight-glasses-a-day advice, she says. The amount of water your body needs depends on your metabolism, activity level, and climate, she explains. “Most people need between 9 and 13 cups of total fluid a day, which includes the liquid you get from soups, smoothies, water-rich foods, and anything else you drink, even tea and coffee.” Aim to get at least half your fluid needs from water. If you aren’t a fan of plain H2O, pretend you’re at a spa and add cucumber slices, berries, grapes, or a twist of citrus.

5 S H R I N K YO U R E AT I N G W I N D O W Sometimes it’s less about what you eat than when you eat it. Enjoying your meals within a 12-hour time frame each day can help reduce inflammation, improve gut health, and boost energy. This is basically the gentlest form of intermittent fasting, says Carolyn Williams, PhD, RD, author of the upcoming OnePot Meals That Heal. “The 12-hour window is so doable. Perhaps you only eat between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Black coffee, plain tea, and water don’t count.” At the 12-hour mark, the body goes into “fasting mode” and begins to rely more heavily on body fat for energy. “This fat usage triggers hormonal adaptations that can lead to improvements in insulin sensitivity, fasting blood glucose, blood pressure, triglycerides, and other inflammatory blood markers,” Williams says. Contrary to what you might think, hunger and cravings tend to decrease. And not only do you get the benefits of fasting, but chances are you’ll sleep better when your tummy isn’t busy digesting that hearty late-night snack. (If you have diabetes or another health condition, check with your doctor before trying intermittent fasting.)

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6 P L A N YO U R S N A C K S Knowing what you’ll nosh on between meals means saying buh-bye to spontaneous trips to the vending machine or, um, ice cream in your freezer. “Having a snack plan is a way to take care of yourself so you don’t deny your hunger or end up with something that won’t really energize you,” Morford says. Whether you buy or DIY your snacks, make sure they are truly satisfying, in both the taste and satiety departments. Walnuts are a smart choice, Morford says: “They’re a triple threat, since they have healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Just a small handful will fill you up without destroying your appetite at mealtime.”

h one yp ap ri ka wal nu ts

oven to 400°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon oil, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper on baking sheet.

PREHEAT

Honey-Paprika Wa l n u t s ACTIVE TIME 10 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 1 HOUR, 5 MINUTES SERVES 8

1 egg white 3 Tbsp. honey 2 tsp. smoked paprika 2 tsp. kosher salt 1/2 tsp. cayenne 4 cups raw walnut halves (about 12 oz.) oven to 300°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Whisk egg white, honey, paprika, salt, and cayenne in a large bowl. Add walnuts and toss to coat. Spread walnuts on baking sheet. PREHEAT

until mostly dry but a little tacky, 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool completely, about 30 minutes. (Walnuts will crisp up as they cool.) BAKE

skin of chicken breasts with remaining 1 teaspoon oil. Sprinkle both sides of breasts evenly with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Arrange chicken on baking sheet with potatoes. Roast until potatoes are very tender and chicken is cooked through (165°F), 40 to 45 minutes. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 20 minutes. RUB

Wa r m R o a s t C h i c ke n S a l a d ACTIVE TIME 30 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 1 HOUR, 30 MINUTES SERVES 4

24 oz. baby potatoes, halved, or quartered if large 1 Tbsp. plus 1 tsp. olive oil, divided, plus more for serving 1 1/8 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1/2 tsp. plus 1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided 2 bone-in, skin-on chicken breast halves (about 14 oz. each) 1/2 cup plain whole-milk Greek yogurt 2 medium cloves garlic, grated on a Microplane or very finely chopped 1/2 tsp. fish sauce or soy sauce 2 Tbsp. whole buttermilk, plus more if needed 3 large citrus fruits (2 lb. total), such as navel oranges, grapefruit, mandarins, and/or tangerines

whisk yogurt, garlic, fish sauce, 2 tablespoons buttermilk, and remaining 1/8 teaspoon each kosher salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Add 1 tablespoon buttermilk if needed for dressing to reach a saucy consistency. Refrigerate until ready to serve. MEANWHILE,

off top and bottom of each citrus fruit. Using a sharp knife, slice off peel and white pith from each fruit; discard. Slice each fruit crosswise into wheels. Cut each wheel in half. S LICE

arugula and radicchio on a large platter. Remove and discard bones from chicken. Slice chicken crosswise into thick (about 1/2-inch) pieces. Arrange chicken, potatoes, and citrus wheels on arugula mixture. Drizzle generously with oil and top with flaky sea salt. Serve with buttermilk dressing to spoon over salad.

PILE

6 cups baby arugula 1/2 small head radicchio, leaves separated Flaky sea salt, for serving

7 E AT I N C O L O R Even in the dead of winter you can find beautiful, seasonal fruits and vegetables, so play up the produce! “When you eat a variety of colors, you get a fuller spectrum of nutrients and antioxidants,” Krieger says. “It’s amazing how powerful this one simple step can be for your long- and short-term well-being.” Plus, a colorful plate is both enticing and mood-boosting. To ensure you have plenty of produce at your fingertips, Krieger recommends stocking up on frozen fruits and veggies in addition to fresh. “And don’t be afraid to get precut or prewashed veggies if that makes produce prep seem more doable for you.”

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Majesty Palm

Parenting a Plant Baby While the current greenery craze has, well, roots in Covid lockdown, this is one trend with serious potential for growth. BY J E N N Y C O M I TA PHOTO GR APHS BY B RYA N G A R D N E R ST Y L I N G BY M I A K O K AT O H

Ficus Audrey

ZZ Plant THE 3 MOST COMMON PROBLEMS The best way to figure out whether your plants are thriving: Take a look at their foliage. “Leaves can tell us a lot,” says Paris Lalicata, community associate at the Sill, an e-commerce plant site. Yellowing leaves: A likely culprit is overwatering, but the problem could also be cold temps. “If the soil isn’t wet,” Weinstein says, “consider where the plant is placed. Is it near a drafty window?” T H E F I X : Move it to a warmer spot or seal gaps that let in cold air. Try 3M’s Transparent Weather Sealing Tape ($8; amazon.com).

A little snake plant on the bedside table. Basil on the windowsill. Plants have a special ability to turn a house into a home. And that’s not their only power: They can make us healthier and happier, research has found. “Houseplants can remove toxins from indoor air and, because of the innate connection between people and nature, also improve our mood,” says Mobee Weinstein, foreman of gardeners at the New York Botanical Garden and author of The Complete Book of Ferns. Plenty of research shows that when people go into a forest, their blood pressure can drop, inducing a sense of calm, she adds. Being a plant parent, however, is not without its worries. Chief among them: How do we keep these leafy life forms from ending up in the compost heap? “My journey with plants involved a lot of trial and error,” admits Hilton Carter, an Instagram star whose home is filled with more than 200 specimens. “But if you educate yourself a bit, you can avoid having to say, ‘Oh, I messed that one up. Let me go buy a new one.’ With a little knowledge, anyone can keep plants alive.” E R NS I N A S U N N Y S P OT I N T H E DE N.

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Browning leaves: This could be caused by underwatering, overfertilizing, sun scorch, or inadequate humidity. T H E F I X : Invest in a humidifier (like the Canopy Humidifier, $150; thesill.com) to add moisture to the air. Dropping leaves: Don’t worry too much about some shedding, especially with a recent arrival. “Plants will often drop leaves when they’re moved to a new environment,” says Carter, author of three plant books, including Wild Creations. If you’re suddenly losing a lot of leaves on an established plant, the cause could be cold temps, too much water, or lack of sun. T H E F I X : Shift your plant so it’s closer to sunlight or ease up on hydration. In general, succulent soil should be dry to the point of sandy, and fern soil should always be moist. Most other plants fall somewhere in between—check the care instructions.

Snake Sayuri

F L AU N T YO U R F O L I AG E The most satisfying part of owning plants is showing them off. Carter shares his tips for arranging them in your space. Place plants at different levels. “Put them above you, below you, and right at eyeline,” he says. Try perching smaller pots on shelves, hanging trailing plants from ceiling hooks, and putting treelike specimens in large pots on the floor. Layer plants many pots deep. “I believe in blurring the indoor-outdoor line, and the way to do that is by mimicking nature,” he says. “Create layers—some plants in the background, others in the foreground.” Accentuate a space with a plant. Carter’s styling mantra: “Every surface, be it a bar cart or a bookshelf, has the opportunity to be a plant stand.”

Rex Begonia

D O I R E A L LY H AV E T O D U ST M Y P L A N T S ?

O T H E R WAY S T O BA BY YO U R P L A N T Is your greenery’s poor health manifesting itself in other ways? Weinstein says plants are often killed with kindness. “Overwatering is probably the leading cause of indoor-plant death,” she says. “And there’s also a tendency to overfertilize.” If your plant is looking rough, try these suggestions.

Short answer: Yes. “Dust can block sunlight, interfering with photosynthesis,” Weinstein says. There’s no need to spring for plant-specific cleansers or leaf polish. If your plant is small, just pop it into the sink for a gentle shower about once a season. For larger plants, wipe the leaves with a damp rag when you notice dust.

DO THEY NEED F I LT E R E D WAT E R ? Monocots, like palms, dracaenas, philodendrons, and orchids, are sensitive to fluoride and chlorine— common additives in tap water—and their leaves can brown from buildup. But you don’t have to invest in a Brita. “Leave bottles uncapped for a day. Many of the chemicals will dissipate,” Weinstein says.

A little benign neglect is a good first course of action. Cut back on the watering—by how much depends on the plant type—and fertilize sparingly. Generally, feed your plants only once a month, and avoid fertilizing during a plant’s dormant season (October through March). Swap out the dirt if that cold shoulder isn’t working. “Plants get nutrients from the soil, and eventually soil gets depleted,” Lalicata says. If it’s not the right time for fertilizer, try a replacement batch of dirt. Repot it entirely. You can tell your plant has outgrown its container if roots poke out of the drainage hole or push the plant up and out of the pot. When it comes to pots, however, bigger isn’t always better. “The larger the container, the longer the soil will hold moisture, and you can end up with root rot,” Weinstein says. “If a plant is struggling, I often recommend sizing down the pot.” Bring plants outside. If it’s warm enough where you live, transfer indoor plants outside for an extended summer vacation. All that natural light can be a lifesaver. (Remember to check for bugs before bringing them back in.) “I just did that for the first time because I moved from an apartment to a house,” Carter says. “Once the plants went outside, it was as if they’d always wanted to be there—so much new growth and leaves looking all perfect. I thought to myself, ‘Man, I really have been keeping you guys down!’ ”

String of Hearts

I S H I R I N G A P L A N T S I T T E R OV E R T H E T O P ? That depends on your collection. “If you just have succulents and cacti, you can likely go on vacation for a couple of weeks,” Carter says. “If you have ferns, you probably need someone in your house every day.” If your plants’ needs fall somewhere in between, consider self-watering planters, like the ones from Lechuza.

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SPEEDY PIZZA

SHEET PAN SALMON

POLENTA CASSEROLE

FOOD

IN SEASON

Pretty in Pink FO O D ST Y L I N G BY A L I R A M E E ; P R O P ST Y L I N G BY C L A I R E S P O L L E N

Celebrate peak citrus season with juicy, tangy grapefruit. S H O P for smooth-skinned fruit that

feels heavy and gives slightly when squeezed. The Ruby Red variety packs the most sweetness. S TO R E in the fridge for up to three

weeks. Eat at room temperature for optimal juiciness. S E RV E fresh juice in a cocktail or

shaken into salad dressing. Slice segments to brighten up green salads or grain bowls. For breakfast or a light dessert, try the oldie-but-goodie half grapefruit sprinkled with sugar and broiled until caramelized. —Lizzy Briskin

Photograph by Caitlin Bensel

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1 1/2 Tbsp. olive oil 1 lb. fresh prepared pizza dough, at room temperature 1/2 cup jarred pizza or marinara sauce 4 oz. low-moisture part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 1 cup) 1/2 cup very thinly sliced fennel (from 1 small bulb), plus fronds for serving 1/3 cup hot sliced pickled cherry peppers, drained and coarsely chopped (optional) 12 thin slices uncured salami, such as soppressata (about 1½ oz.) 1/2 cup (4 1/2 oz.) whole-milk ricotta cheese 2 tsp. grated lemon zest (from 1 lemon) oven to 500°F with rack in lower third of oven. Grease a large rimmed baking sheet with oil. Using your hands, gently stretch dough into a large oval or rectangle. (If dough springs back, cover and let rest for a few minutes before continuing.) PREHEAT

sauce evenly over dough. Sprinkle with mozzarella and top evenly with fennel, pickled cherry peppers (if using), and salami. Bake until crust is crisp and brown around edges, about 12 minutes. SPOON

EASY DINNER 1

stir together ricotta and lemon zest. Dollop ricotta mixture over baked pizza. Top with fennel fronds.

MEANWHILE,

Salami and Fennel Pizza ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES

TOTAL TIME 35 MINUTES

✓ Freezable ✓ One Pot ✓ Family Friendly

SERVES 4

PER SERVING: 535 Calories, 20g Fat (8g Saturated), 41mg Cholesterol, 10g Fiber, 24g Protein, 61g Carbs, 1,029mg Sodium, 4g Sugar

Recipes by Julia Levy and Liz Mer vosh 1 12 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Photographs by Caitlin Bensel

FOOD

EASY DINNER 2

Nutty Tofu Bowls ACTIVE TIME 25 MINUTES

TOTAL TIME 35 MINUTES

✓ Vegan ✓ Gluten-Free ✓ Dairy-Free

SERVES 4

1 cup uncooked basmati rice 1 14-oz. pkg. extra-firm tofu 1 Tbsp. cornstarch 2 tsp. canola oil 1 Tbsp. lime zest plus 3 Tbsp. fresh juice (from 3 limes) 1/2 cup seasoned rice vinegar 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper 1 cup thinly sliced Persian cucumbers (from 2 cucumbers) 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter 2 Tbsp. soy sauce 1 Tbsp. grated fresh ginger (from a 1 1/2-in. piece) 1 1/2 tsp. honey or maple syrup Thinly sliced scallions and chopped peanuts, for serving (optional) oven to 400°F. Cook rice according to package directions. Add lime zest and fluff rice with a fork. PREHEAT

press tofu in a towel to remove excess moisture. Cut into 3/4-inch cubes and place in a medium bowl. Toss with cornstarch and oil. Arrange tofu in a single layer on a parchmentlined baking sheet. Bake until golden and edges are crispy, about 25 minutes.

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

MEANWHILE,

vinegar and crushed red pepper in a small bowl. Add cucumber and stir. WHISK

peanut butter, 5 tablespoons water, soy sauce, ginger, honey, and lime juice in a small bowl until smooth. WHISK

tofu cubes in 1/4 cup peanut butter mixture. Serve over rice with cucumbers and, if using, scallions and peanuts. Drizzle with desired amount of peanut sauce.

TOSS

PER SERVING: 557 Calories, 24g Fat (4g Saturated), 0mg Cholesterol, 5g Fiber, 21g Protein, 71g Carbs, 1,436mg Sodium, 15g Sugar

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FOOD

EASY DINNER 3

Smoky Sheet Pan Salmon and Potatoes 2 navel oranges 3 Tbsp. olive oil 1 Tbsp. smoked paprika 2 tsp. dried oregano 24 oz. baby Yukon Gold potatoes, halved 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided 4 6-oz. skin-on salmon fillets, patted dry 2 avocados, chopped 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from 4 limes) oven to 425°F. Zest 1 orange to yield 1 teaspoon and place zest in a small bowl. Remove rind from oranges and cut flesh into segments. Place segments in a medium bowl. Add oil, paprika, and oregano to orange zest; stir to combine. PREHEAT

potatoes with 2 tablespoons oil mixture and 3/4 teaspoon salt on a parchment-lined large rimmed baking sheet. Bake until golden and mostly tender, about 25 minutes. TOSS

salmon with 1/2 teaspoon salt and rub with remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons oil mixture. Place salmon, skin side down, on baking sheet with potatoes. Bake until salmon is cooked to desired degree of doneness, 12 to 15 minutes for medium.

SPRINKLE

add avocados, cilantro, lime juice, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt to orange segments; stir to combine. Serve over salmon and potatoes.

MEANWHILE,

PER SERVING: 660 Calories, 35g Fat (6g Saturated), 90mg Cholesterol, 12g Fiber, 42g Protein, 51g Carbs, 865mg Sodium, 9g Sugar

114 REAL SIMPLE

ACTIVE TIME 15 MINUTES

TOTAL TIME 40 MINUTES

✓ One Pan ✓ Gluten-Free ✓ Dairy-Free

SERVES 4

coriander, turmeric, and salt in a small bowl. Rub chicken thighs evenly with mixture. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high. Add chicken; cook, undisturbed, until deep golden on 1 side, about 4 minutes. Transfer to a plate. COMBINE

carrots to pot; cook, stirring often, until softened, about 2 minutes. Add garlic and ginger; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add chicken, chickpeas, broth, and lemon zest. ADD

2 tsp. ground coriander 1 tsp. ground turmeric 3/4 tsp. kosher salt 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs

EASY DINNER 4

Spiced Chicken and Chickpea Soup ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 35 MINUTES SERVES 4

✓ Freezable ✓ Make Ahead ✓ One Pot ✓ Dairy-Free ✓ Family Friendly

soup to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer, covered, until carrots are tender and chicken is cooked through, about 15 minutes. Remove chicken, shred into bite-size pieces, and return to pot.

BRING

2 Tbsp. olive oil 1 cup thinly sliced carrots (from 3 small carrots) 1 Tbsp. minced garlic (from 3 cloves) 1 Tbsp. grated fresh ginger (from a 1-in. piece) 1 15-oz. can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

lemon juice and spinach to pot; cook, stirring constantly, until spinach wilts, about 1 minute.

ADD

PER SERVING: 358 Calories, 13g Fat (2g Saturated), 80mg Cholesterol, 9g Fiber, 28g Protein, 32g Carbs, 1,292mg Sodium, 7g Sugar

4 cups lower-sodium chicken broth 1 tsp. lemon zest plus 1 Tbsp. fresh juice (from 1 lemon) 3 cups baby spinach

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FOOD

EASY DINNER 5

1 16-oz. pkg. spaghetti

Parm e Pepe Spaghetti

1∕4 cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

ACTIVE TIME 15 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 25 MINUTES SERVES 4

✓ Quick Cooking ✓ Vegetarian ✓ Family Friendly

1∕4 cup toasted walnuts, chopped 2 Tbsp. olive oil 2 1∕2 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter 4 oz. Parmesan cheese, finely grated (about 1 1∕2 cups) 3∕4 tsp. kosher salt, plus more for water 3 quarts generously salted water to a boil in a large saucepan. Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente. Do not drain.

BRING

stir together parsley and walnuts in a small bowl. Heat oil in a large pot over medium. Add pepper; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant and sizzling, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Turn off heat.

MEANWHILE,

tongs, transfer cooked pasta from saucepan to pot with pepper mixture. Ladle 1 1∕4 cups cooking water into pot with pasta. Add butter and stir constantly for 1 minute. Gradually add cheese, stirring constantly and vigorously, until cheese is melted and a creamy sauce coats pasta, about 2 minutes (add more cooking water as needed). Stir in salt. Serve sprinkled with walnut mixture. USING

PER SERVING: 700 Calories, 27g Fat (10g Saturated), 40mg Cholesterol, 5g Fiber, 24g Protein, 91g Carbs, 882mg Sodium, 3g Sugar

CO OK WITH COZI Get REAL SIMPLE’s easy weeknight-dinner recipes in Cozi, a free meal-planning and organizing app from Meredith Corporation. Hover your phone’s camera over the code to download.

116 REAL SIMPLE

by invitation | tipsntrends, inc | info@tipsntrends.com

FOOD

BET TER FOR YOU

Skillet Polenta in Tomato Sauce T h i s d e l i c i o u s o n e - p ot m e a l h a s c oz y l a s a g n a v i b e s b u t re q u i re s a fra c t i o n of th e ef fo r t ( a n d n o n e of th e c h e e s e ) . BY A N A N DA E I D E L ST E I N

1 18 R E A L S I M P L E JA N UA RY/ F E B RUA RY 2022

Photographs by Caitlin Bensel

ACTIVE TIME 15 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 35 MINUTES SERVES 4

1 28-oz. can whole peeled tomatoes 3 Tbsp. olive oil, divided 1 yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1 1∕2 cups) 1 tsp. dried oregano 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1 15.5-oz. can navy beans or great northern beans, drained and rinsed 1 18-oz. tube plain polenta, cut into 1∕2-in.-thick slices Finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley and flaky sea salt, for serving tomatoes with their juices in a large bowl and crush with your hands. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large broiler-safe skillet over mediumhigh. Add onion; cook, stirring often, until golden, 6 to 8 minutes. Add oregano and 1∕2 teaspoon kosher salt; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add crushed tomatoes; simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes. PLACE

beans, 1 cup water, and remaining 1∕2 teaspoon kosher salt to skillet. Simmer, stirring and mashing about half of beans, until sauce thickens slightly, 6 to 8 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat broiler with oven rack 6 inches from heat.

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

ADD

polenta slices in sauce in skillet, overlapping slightly. Brush polenta with 1 tablespoon oil. Transfer skillet to oven; broil until bubbling and browned in spots, 4 to 6 minutes. Top with finely chopped parsley and flaky sea salt. Drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon oil. NESTLE

CO OL BE ANS

Small, creamy navy beans boast a whopping 19 grams of fiber and 15 grams of protein per cup, not to mention a boatload of iron and magnesium. If you can’t find them, great northern beans are an easy swap, as are the slightly larger cannellini beans.

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WHO KNEW?

Sweet Little Morsels About Valentines IN THE MID-1800s,

Esther Howland popularized valentines in the United States. Known as “New England’s first career woman,” she raked in $100,000 a year selling the elaborate, lacy, 3D cards she and a posse of female friends—possibly the world’s first example of galentines?—made in a third-floor room of her house in Worcester, Massachusetts. Thanks to her pioneering hustle, valentines are now a big business in the U.S. An estimated 145 million are sold every year, with Americans dropping about $1 billion on the cards alone. (If you want roses or chocolate, that’s gonna be extra.) That 145 million doesn’t even include the boxed cards made for the classroom valentines swap. Today’s Paw Patrol and Peppa Pig sets owe a great deal to the Peanuts gang, who in

the 1960s became some of the earliest characters to be featured on the little cards—along with cats,

In 2021, though nearly half of Americans weren’t celebrating Valentine’s Day, about a quarter of them still planned to spend on themselves (we hear you!) or get together with friends. Consider pouring one out for Esther. —Martha Upton

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Photograph by Br yan Gardner

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