Top Designers Share Fun and Stylish Tricks for Every Room OUR 5TH ANNUAL IDEAS HOUSE TheIssueHome Easy Weeknight AndAndPantryPantryWeeknightDinnersDinners20-Minute20-MinuteReorgReorgWhyaMessyWhyaMessyHouseIsn’ttheHouseIsn’ttheEndoftheWorldEndoftheWorld Your Embarrassing Health Questions, Answered LIFE MADE EASIER OCTOBER 2022
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“Home is a symbol of the self. Caring for a home is caring for one’s self.”
OCTOBER THE HOME ISSUE
Photograph by Christopher Testani
LOWES.COMGALLON;PER$25FROM2006-4C,CHAMPAGNEPEACHINPAINTVALSPAR OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 3
GLORIA STEINEM, MY LIFE ON THE ROAD
TO BUY: (Laundry Room) Valspar Paint in Rising Tide 4008-3A, from $25 per gallon; lowes.com. Larkspur Sconces; serenaandlily.com. Floating Shelf; semihand made.com. Threshold Studio McGee Ceramic Table Lamp; target.com. County Road River Bank by Rebecca King; minted.com. Bud Vases; connectedgoods.com. Glass Canisters; jennikayne.com. Jug Laundry Bottle; churchstdesigns.etsy.com. Albany Cane Rattan Bins; containerstore.com. GE Smart Front Load Energy Star Steam Washer and GE Smart Front Load Electric Dryer; geappliances.com. (Porch) Lucara Lounge Chair; article .com. Santa Cruz Teak Sofa; williams-sonoma.com. Bolé Road Floor Cushion; westelm.com. Ceylon Teak Coffee Table; ballarddesigns.com. White and Blue Ceramic Stool; kirklands.com. Kimbie Rug; luluandgeorgia.com. Warwick Sconce; serenaandlily.com.
ON THE COVER 100 Top Designers Share Fun and Stylish Tricks for Every Room 50 Your Embarrassing Health Questions, Answered 126 Easy Weeknight Dinners 65 20-Minute Pantry Reorg 35 Why a Messy Home Isn’t the End of the World 100 SWEETHOME,HOME Our ideas house is cozy, colorful, and full of doable decor tips for you to steal 116 READ IT & EAT What could be more delicious than a cookbook club? We have six picks to get you startedOCTOBER / THE HOME ISSUE CONTENTS Cover Photograph by Christopher Testani4 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
TO BUY: Valspar Paint in Du Jour 7002-6, from $25 per gallon; lowes.com. Melrose 2 Piece Sectional in Green Apple, $3,698; apt2b.com. Riviera Pedestal Table, $1,200; jonathanadler.com. When the Morning Comes (left), from $99, and Fore, from $49; shop.oldbrandnew.com.
GRAB LIFE BY THE BRUSH.
When you’re ready to do more, we’re ready with all the products to help you make more a reality.
MADE FOR MORE DesignMansardGableandLOWE’SCompany.Sherwin-WilliamsThe©2022permission.withusedareAllLLC.LF,oftrademarksregisteredare
70 Money Say no to surprise moving costs
125 In Season
17 We’re Loving Spooky and stylish Halloween decor
88 Modern Manners
41 Simple Twist Ripen your bananas in 15 minutes
The final word on a hot debate: Do you need a top sheet?
24 Space of the Month
Etiquette advice from author Catherine Newman
10 REAL SIMPLE Everywhere 12 Your Words
Meet your go-to fall dessert
65 The 20-Minute Reorg
126 5 Easy Dinners Fresh, family-friendly meals
A breakfastveggie-packedstrata
21 The Books List New releases for every literary taste
35 Learning Curve
134 Better for You
85 REAL SIMPLE
50 Healthy at Home Doctors explain readers’ awkward health issues
Give your kitchen a kick in the pantry
A messy home can be an invitation to relax guides
97 The Helpful Mind Turn your nagging regrets into powerful life changes
30 Genius Beauty Smart products to simplify your routine
OCTOBER / THE HOME ISSUE
47 Pets How to adopt a retired service dog
56 Travel Packing strategies from travel pros
Settles It
food
Easy DIY design touches personalize an entryway
90 Family Multigenerational living is on the rise. Here’s how to make it work for you
14 Editor’s Note 136 Who Knew?
42 CooksThingsKnow
76 The Essential Style a cozy cashmere sweater for the office
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delights
Make the most of the mighty air fryer
What to do with delicata squash
30
60 Clean This Tackle overlooked areas like the top of the fridge and the ceiling fan
lives
CONTENTS
45 Sweet Thing
42 50 6 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
74 Beauty Road Test The best at-home hair color
REAL SIMPLE (ISSN 1528-1701) (OCTOBER 2022) (VOLUME 23/ISSUE 10) IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY EXCEPT FOR COMBINED ISSUES IN JANUARY/FEBRUARY AND JULY/AUGUST BYTI GOTHAM INC.TI GOTHAM INC. IS AWHOLLY 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. STANDARD MAIL ENCLOSED IN EDITION RA. 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.
28 Clever Items Little helpers to make your life a lot easier
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EXECUTIVE BUSINESS DIRECTOR Janice Croat BUSINESS MANAGER Trish Schroder ADVERTISING BUSINESS MANAGER Zena Norbont
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“I wait the entire year for this season. Cooler days and nights, cozy aroundandTechnicolorsweaters,leaves,thepromiseoftheholidaysjustthecorner.”
ASSOCIATE EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Katie Holdefehr
SENIOR VIDEO PRODUCER Jennifer Lomeli
“I love fall because it’s football season. Roll Tide!”
WEST COAST
INTEGRATED ACCOUNT DIRECTORS Margaret Graff, Jennifer Latwis ADVERTISING SALES ASSISTANT Teri Dasbach
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PRODUCTION, CIRCULATION & FINANCE
BEAUTY
VICE PRESIDENT, GENERAL MANAGER Amanda Wolfe
CONTRIBUTING HOME EDITOR Cat Dash
“When you step into the crisp air, with none of the humidity and all the possibility, it’s like you ate a Power Pellet and got a new life.”
VICE PRESIDENT Andy Borinstein DIRECTORSDIRECTORS Karen Bakos, Emily Fleishman SENIOR MANAGER Kseniya Ivnitskaya MANAGERMANAGER Maura Ruane
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BRAND LEADERSHIP
Alysia Borsa
“Pumpkin and apple picking! Layers! Cute russet colors! Halloween! (That alone.)”
EDITORIAL PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Filomena Guzzardi
BLUE GROUP MEDIA Eric Davis, Jill Stone ADVERTISING SALES ASSISTANT Hayley Solomon
INTEGRATED ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Susan Schwartzman
NEWSSTAND RETAIL Rose Cirrincione
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VISUALS EDITOR Olivia Barr
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VICE PRESIDENT, GROUP SALES DIRECTOR Mindy Provenzano
COLOR QUALITY ANALYST Sarah Schroeder
ADVERTISING SALES
FASHION EDITOR Flavia Nunez
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, GROUP GENERAL MANAGER, HOME & DESIGN Mélanie Berliet
PRODUCTION
What’s the best season, and why is it fall?
“Fall is absolutely the best season. Sweater weather, fall foliage, and butternut squash.”
HOME DIRECTOR Erica Finamore
PHOTO DIRECTOR Muzam Agha
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Morgan Noll
MARKETING MARKETING DIRECTOR Allison Kelly ART DIRECTOR Sarah Massimo HOME DIRECTOR Misty Chandler MARKETING COORDINATOR Mia Drake ASSOCIATE COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Katie Holzman
PRESIDENT, LIFESTYLE
DEPUTY BEAUTY DIRECTOR Lisa DeSantis
BEAUTY & FASHION EDITOR Hana Hong
EXECUTIVE VIDEO PRODUCER Allie Merriam
ASSOCIATE CONSUMER MARKETING DIRECTOR Lynn Bolinger
HOME
SENIOR EDITOR, FOOD Samantha Leffler
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF QUALITY Joseph Kohler
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER Karen Barnhart
CONTENT, STRATEGY & INSIGHTS
TRAVEL NATIONAL MANAGER Katy Hildman
Lauren Iannotti EDITOR IN CHIEF
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, GENERAL MANAGER Melissa Inman
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DETROIT
BEAUTY DIRECTOR Heather Muir Maffei
ASSISTANT EDITORS HannahTeddyDorough,Willson
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR John Beard SENIOR PRODUCTION MANAGER Courtney Thompson
DEPUTY PHOTO EDITOR Lawrence J. Whritenour Jr.
Tiffany Ehasz
Whether you’re boiling, poaching, or baking, we’ve got tips for perfect eggs, every time.
107 REAL
135
FORBETTERYOU
DINNERSEASY
Smart, creative home solutions come to life at the REAL2022SIMPLE HOME.
129
COOKSTHINGSKNOW
Our healthier take on a eggs-cellent.stapledecadentdeliciouslybrunchissimply
Bring home the flavors of fall with five hearty meals that are scrumptious.simply HOMESIMPLE
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In our new video series Simple Beauty, REAL SIMPLE editors Hana Hong (above) and Lisa DeSantis try the latest multitasking makeup,demo new hairstyles,get skin-care picks from dermatologists,and put readers’ product recs to the test. Watch at realsimple.com/simplebeauty.
ON THE WEB Keep It Simple
REAL SIMPLE readers score 15 percent off jewelry-care essentials from Shinery, like the Radiance Wash featured on page 30. Use the checkout code RS15 at shinery.com. Offer valid sitewide through 10/11/22.
The latte is a classic, but our drinks and desserts branch out from the basic. Find your daily dose of fall flavor at realsimple.com/pumpkinspice.
REAL SIMPLE Everywhere Find Exclusive Ideas, Tips, and Ways to Make Life Easier—Every Day DUPREEGREGCAVANAUGH;CHELSEA+TEDREALSIMPLE.COM;OFCOURTESYFINAMORE;ERICAOFCOURTESYLEFT:TOPFROMCLOCKWISE 10 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
IN YOUR KITCHEN
Coziest home item: My hot pink velvet couch! I bought it during a difficult time in my life, and it was literallya bright spot.
Most-used gadget: My machine.NespressoIuseiteveryday,andI’vehaditforalmost10years!
Check out Erica’s decor favorites in the REAL SIMPLE Home on page 100.
IN YOUR CLOSET
It’s toSpicePumpkinSeason!12RecipesGetYourFix
BEHINDSCENESTHE
Erica Finamore HOME DIRECTOR @ericafinamore
What you’re looking forward to: October is my favorite month. I’m so excited to go overboard picking apples and then panic trying to eat them all.
HalloweenLast-MinuteCostumes
IN YOUR WALLET Shine On
Haven’t figured out what you’re going to be? Instead of making an emergency run to Spirit Halloween, try our quick and easy DIY ideas. From an update on the white-sheet ghost to conversation-starting puns, our clever costumes are a trick and a treat. See them at realsimple.com/halloween.
READER OF THE MONTH Dalila Hable, 37 EXECUTIVECHICAGOASSISTANT
Snakes! My daughter loves them and helped me get used to them. I’ll never have one in my house, but I can touch them now without hyperventilating.
My fear of heights! A year ago, I did an open-door helicopter ride and let my legs hang out over Central Park. Now I can’t stop seeking that same adrenaline rush!
What’s the weirdest gift you’ve ever received?
Speaking up. I have a hard time with confrontation— I never know what to say in the heat of the moment. I’m still a work in progress, but I’m learning to stand up for myself. Or at the very least, I walk away without saying words I can’t take back.
Send an email to yourwords@realsimple.com and let us know your answer to this question. Your response could appear in the magazine!
I never do karaoke, but I will always backup dance to help!
Being imperfect. While in recovery for an eating disor der, I realized I was terrified of people finding something about me to criticize. Therapy, a safe and loving relation ship, and practicing letting myself fail have helped me accept my strengths, flaws, and everything in between!
My cousins when we’re at family gatherings.
@ERICAMREILLY
VALERIE LORD, MALTA, NEW YORK
What’s always in your car? Water!
@KIANASTORM
ILSA BENDER, PENNSYLVANIALANCASTER,
What’s your go-to karaoke tune?
GERI MORAN, WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK
Most organized part of your life: My cookbook and recipe collection.
Quitting. I used to think I could power through anything by working hard enough. I usually could. But at what cost? Sometimes quitting is the strongest thing you can do.
MAGGIE PITTELKO, ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA
What Fear Have Conquered?You
H.M. PORTLAND,YOUNG,OREGON
The book you could read again and again: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens.
GAIL CUSTADIO, MASSACHUSETTSDARTMOUTH,
Least organized part of your life: Time. I don’t know where it goes sometimes!
Bees. I’ve been scared of them since second grade, when a wasp landed on me and immediately stung me. Now that I’m an avid gar dener, I realize they prefer flowers, and we work happily side by side. But not yellow jackets. They’re just assholes!
Who makes you laugh the most?
YOUR WORDS
What’s always in your bag? Measuring tape. It comes in handy more than you’d think.
HABLEDALILAOFCOURTESY 12 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
My fear of flying. I knew that if I wanted to travel with my grandkids, I had to get over it. I pop a motion sickness pill, hold their hands, and tell them not to be afraid!
I never learned how to swim. After I became a mom, I took an adult swim class so I could feel confi dent when my babies were in the water.
JENNY HAGADORN, GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA
The fear of saying no. I am the oldest of four siblings and always feel obligated to help, even if it affects my mental health. I’ve learned to gracefully say no when I’ll be stretched too thin or I just don’t want to. I’ve even learned not to feel guilty about it!
The fear of looking dumb! So many of us hesitate to ask questions when we’re confused. I finally realized that my job as a technical writer was to ask all the questions. It makes me better at my job, even if people are surprised by my basic questions.
Home is where… My husband, daughter, and dog are.
@BRINA711
NEXT QUESTION
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blood pressure minor joint pain*? *TYLENOL® is indicated for the temporary relief of minor pain of arthritis. Do not use for more than 10 days unless directed by a doctor. Pain relievers may affect blood pressure. TYLENOLTYLENOL® is the #1 doctor recommended pain relief brand for those with high blood pressure. USE ONLY AS DIRECTED. If you have questions on whether TYLENOL® is right for you, talk to your doctor.
High
ALTIZIODEBORAHBYMAKEUPGREYL;LEONORUSINGNIELSENCLAYBYHAIRROSENBERG;LIZZYBYSTYLING ZABAWAALYSSABYASSISTEDMAKEUPGLOSSIER;USINGMANAGEMENTCREATIVEFOR Photograph by Felix Wong14 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
Rising4008-3ATideGreen5006-3CTrellis 5004-2CFlora EDITOR’S NOTE
Getting Better All the Time
REAL SIMPLE teamed up with Valspar to showcase the paint brand’s Colors of the Year in our ideas home. “One way to find joy, motivation, and focus is to look to nature and embrace its beauty,” says Valspar color expert Sue Kim. “Our 2023 colors represent a moment to find comfort, accept flexibility, and rediscover joy.” Love that! Look for them in this issue, and go to realsimple.com for even more color ideas.
It’s not about perfection! When you scroll through spaces that influencers spent hours staging, it can be easy to think your place has to be impeccable. But it doesn’t. (Believe me, the same detritus of real life in your home— overstuffed laundry hamper, piles of work papers—is just out of frame in theirs.) Any space, fancy or simple, can be beautiful. It comes down to the care put into it, and the love among the people who live in it.
LET’S CONNECT! Follow me on Instagram at @laureniannotti.
Whatever you’re looking to improve, our fifth annual REAL SIMPLE ideas home (page 100) has you covered. This isn’t some highfalutin “show home,” full of “inspiration.” We offer actionable ways to create a place that’s beautiful, comfortable, and uniquely yours. So sit on your couch, pour a cuppa, and flip through this issue for hundreds of tips. Then look around, love what you see, and start planning your next project.
COLORS OF THE YEAR
M
Lauren Iannotti EDITOR IN CHIEF
Y HUSBAND AND I BOUGHT OUR home in a suburb of New York City seven years ago, just before our second daughter was born. After bouncing around apartments—10 in 15 years!—I owned a place for the first time, and I felt... proud! Overwhelmed! And mostly like it wasn’t that different from renting. Yes, I was “building equity,” and I could write off renovations. But I had no intention of overhauling our century-old townhouse. I’d fix what was broken, put some color on the walls, and add a few key pieces of art and furniture. Kinda like howI’d made each of those apartments, through elbow grease, paint, and a trip or two to Ikea and HomeGoods, feel custom and personal and, every time, like home.
I’m constantly editing my home—currently for errant Legos, and we’re going through a Scotch tape phase? But I also reshelve books, swap out what’s on the mantel, rotate in a new pillow that makes all the difference. If you love where you live, you do this. You show your love with big projects and small ones, tweaks and updates, care and attention. (And, in my case, Pendleton throws.)
MINTED.COM/CUSTOM-BAGS
Holcomb,JennabyShowersModerninToteSnapTheElder,AnnabyRustinTaosinDuffleFillmoreTheleft):upperfrom(clockwiseCreditsArtist TaylorMichellebyWavyinWeekenderTheCaporale,LucreciabyStyleCasualinToteSlouchCarry-AllThe
Of-the-moment patterns created by independent artists are perfect for getting or gifting this holiday season. Our new bags collection is trimmed with luxurious Italian Vachetta leather handles and optional copper foil-pressed Vachetta leather tags. Choose from quality crafted totes, duffles and pouches.
Starting at $79 for a personalized snaptote. Limited availability.
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BEVILACQUAMARINABYSTYLINGPROP OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 17 DELIGHTS
Photograph by Ted Chelsea Cavanaugh
Subtly Spooky Stuff
+
WHAT TO READ NEXT / DECORATE WITH PAINT / THE PERKS OF A MESSY HOME
BY
GHOST TOWN Candlelit metal houses cast an eerie glow. TO BUY: Haunted Houses, from $20; crateandbarrel.com.
For Halloween decor that’s more a nod to the macabre than full-on haunted house, work in some elevated— if freaky—pieces. Bonus: You can keep most of it out long past October 31. CAT DASH
WE’RE LOVING
WATCHINGSOMEONE’S
CHOP-CHOP!
Use them yearround as catchalls for jewelry, keys, or change.
TO BUY: Dried Black Glitter Pampas Wreath, $50; kirklands.com.
CAUGHT IN A WEB Serve nibbles on a durable lightweight plate adorned with creepycrawlies. TO BUY: Spider Web Melamine Plate, $9; johnderian.com.
Serve allergen-free candy in these watchful dishes—teal is the color of food allergy awareness—to avoid unwanted scares. TO BUY: Eye Trinket Tray Set, $115; jonathanadler.com.
An autumnal wreath gets the Addams Family treatment with black pampas grass and a bit of sparkle.
TO BUY: Eyes Pouf, $195 each; aelfie.com.
DARK DESIGN
Guests will love to grab a mini butcher knife and sever small bites of cheese off a coffin-shaped charcuterie platter. TO BUY: Brass Cheese Cleaver, $45; jaysonhome.com. Threshold Wood Cheese Board, $25; target.com.
On-trend tapers feel almost sinister in jet black. TO BUY: Marais Taper Candles, $24 for 2; anthropologie.com.
EYE SPY
WAX FIGURE
PLAY DEAD
Whether you use it as extra seating, a footrest, or a side table (just put a tray on top!), this 100 percent wool pouf is always staring.
It’s a skeletal spin on the classic tumbling towers game, complete with bonelike wooden pieces. TO BUY: Stack the Bones Game, $35; kikkerland.com.
MANUFACTURERSOFCOURTESYIMAGESPRODUCT DELIGHTS 18 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
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” right before and during treatment with DUPIXENT; are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether DUPIXENT will harm your unborn baby. A pregnancy registry for women who take DUPIXENT during pregnancy collects information about the health of you and your baby. To enroll or get more information call 1-877-311-8972 or go to herbalandmedicinesTellDUPIXENTororg/ongoing-study/dupixent/;https://mothertobaby.arebreastfeedingplantobreastfeed.Itisnotknownwhetherpassesintoyourbreastmilk.yourhealthcareprovideraboutalltheyoutake,includingprescriptionover-the-countermedicines,vitaminsandsupplements.
DUPIXENT can cause serious side effects, reactionsAllergicincluding:reactions.DUPIXENTcancauseallergicthatcansometimesbesevere.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
The most common side effects in patients with atopic dermatitis include injection site reactions, eye and eyelid inflammation, including redness, swelling, and itching, sometimes with blurred vision, cold sores in your mouth or on your lips, and high count of a certain white blood cell (eosinophilia). 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 by your healthcare provider. It’s an injection given under the skin (subcutaneous injection). Your healthcare provider will decide if you or your caregiver can inject DUPIXENT. Do not try to prepare and inject DUPIXENT until you or your caregiver have been trained by your healthcare provider. In children 12 years of age and older, it’s recommended DUPIXENT be administered by or under supervision of an adult. In children under 12 years of age, DUPIXENT should be given by a caregiver.
INDICATION
Please see Brief Summary on next page.
Joint aches and pain. Some people who use DUPIXENT have had trouble walking or moving due to their joint symptoms, and in some cases needed to be hospitalized. Tell your healthcare provider about any new or worsening joint symptoms. Your healthcare provider may stop DUPIXENT if you develop joint symptoms.
© 2022 Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.All Rights Reserved. DUP.22.03.0111 TALK TO YOUR ECZEMA SPECIALIST AND GO TO DUPIXENT.COM TO FIND OUT MORE GET AHEAD OF ECZEMA AND SHOW MORE SKIN DUPIXENT is a breakthrough eczema treatment that targets a key source of inflammation that can contribute to uncontrolled moderate-to-severe eczema (atopic dermatitis). Available for children 6 months of age and older. 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. REALCELISA,PATIENT Individual results may vary. *In a clinical trial at week 16, 59% of adults taking DUPIXENT + topical corticosteroids (TCS) had significantly less itch vs 20% on TCS only; at 2 weeks, 18% vs 8% had less itch, respectively. At week 16, 39% of adults saw clear or almost clear skin vs 12% on TCS only. 22% saw clear or almost clear skin at 16 and 52 weeks vs 7%, respectively. Fast itch relief* Clearer skin that lasts* Not an immunosuppressant Not a cream or steroid
Especially tell your healthcare provider if you are taking oral, topical or inhaled corticosteroid medicines or if you 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 medicinethathealthcareprovider.Thismaycauseothersymptomswerecontrolledbythecorticosteroidorotherasthmamedicinetocomeback.
Stop using DUPIXENT and tell your healthcare provider or get emergency help right away if you get any of the following signs or symptoms: breathing problems or wheezing, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat, fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded, fast pulse, fever, hives, joint pain, general ill feeling, itching, skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, nausea or vomiting, or cramps in your stomach-area. Eye problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new or worsening eye problems, including eye pain or changes in vision, such as blurred vision. Your healthcare provider may send you to an ophthalmologist for an eye exam if needed.
DUPIXENT is a prescription medicine used to treat adults and children 6 months of age and older with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) that is not well controlled with prescription therapies used on the skin (topical), or who cannot use topical therapies. DUPIXENT can be used with or without topical corticosteroids. It is not known if DUPIXENT is safe and effective in children with atopic dermatitis under 6 months of age.
Do not use if you are allergic to dupilumab or to any of the ingredients in DUPIXENT® .
BY KRISTYN KUSEK LEWIS
When New Yorker staff writer Hua Hsu, a child of Taiwanese immigrants, was going to college in the Bay Area in the ’90s, he viewed Ken, a Japanese American, as someone whose tastes (Dave Matthews Band, Abercrombie & Fitch) ran a bit too main stream. But the two found comfort in each other, until Ken was killed in a beautifullyGut-wrenchingcarjacking.andwritten,Stay True is an unforgettable story about grief, iden tity, and the indelible mark a friendship can leave on our lives.
MemoirComing-of-Age
The alluring descriptions of postwar Paris (the food, the scenery) will make you want to hop on a plane, and the compelling storyline, set amid the rise of the Communist movement in France, is made even more thrilling by the fact that we know where this particular woman is headed.
The new novel by Home Fire author Kamila Shamsie opens at a school in Pakistan, where Zahra and Maryam are adolescent girls who have a warm and easy friendship despite the gap in their families’ means. The story gets unputdown able when they grow up to become successful women in London and are forced to reckon with an event from their past. With lots to say about loyalty and how relationships change over time, Best of Friends is great fodder for book club conversations.
Soul-SearcherPoignant
BEVILACQUAMARINABYSTYLINGPROP Photograph by Ted + Chelsea Cavanaugh DELIGHTS OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 21
Andrew Sean Greer’s novel Less won a Pulitzer Prize in 2018.
The clever story that unfolds is a hilarious and touching take on modern life in America, making Less Is Lost a cathartic book for anyone who’s ever questioned their path— in other words, all of us.
Historical Fiction
withPage-TurnerDepth
In The Frederick Sisters Are Living the Dream by Jeannie Zusy, a funny and insightful story about caregiving, Maggie is an illustrator who’s separated from her hus band and raising two teenage sons. After Ginny, her older sister with intellectual disabili ties, has an accident, Maggie must move Ginny from Maryland to her small town in New York and juggle her sister’s needs as well, which range from the serious (diabetes) to the less so (her online shopping addiction).
The Books List Top Picks for Every Taste
In Jacqueline in Paris, Ann Mah brilliantly imagines what life was like in 1949 for a college student named Jacqueline Bouvier as she embarked on her junior year abroad.
In this follow-up, Arthur Less is traveling across the U.S., pursuing writing work to recover from a financial crisis.
Fun Family Story
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HOSTING JUST GOT A STYLE UPGRADE
SPACE OF THE MONTH
BY ERICA FINAMORE
Black and White and Cool All Over
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A little paint goes a long way in this most excellent foyer.
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When Tamara saw her soon-to-be home in Burlington, Canada, five years ago, two things in the entryway immediately stuck out: the muddy beige walls and a boob light (that type of glass flush mount that looks like, well, a boob). She got to work making the entry a place you’d actually want to enter. She and her husband DIYed most of it, installing a board-and-batten hall tree and painting it a glossy white, then covering the walls in the same shade with an eggshell finish. This project set the tone for the rest of the house. “It made me more passionate about DIY. I realized it was something I really liked to do!” Tamara says.
MANUFACTURERSOFCOURTESYIMAGESPRODUCT(2);SMITHTAMARAOFCOURTESY DELIGHTS 26 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
Tamara used leftover paint from her closet doors for the dash design on her walls.
Thrifting is one of Tamara’s hobbies, so she included antique pieces, like a vintage rug with pink tones. She knew it would stand up to wear and tear (it already had!) and provide unexpected pattern and color.
Tamara added the hall tree because she wanted an accessible place for her kids to hang their jackets. She sketched out the design, got wood panels cut to size at the Home Depot, and nailed them up. Then she installed matte black hardware and set out a bench where people can put on their shoes.
MURAL EFFECT
Meet the Homeowner TAMARA @mygrandparentschairSMITH
ALL ABOARD
Get the Look
THESE OLD THINGS
The room looks like it’s been meticulously wallpapered, but Tamara painted the design herself. She created a brushstroke pattern on a piece of paper as a test, then copied the motif on the walls.
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This silicone lid will be a go-to during the holidays. It comes in most standard bakeware sizes, offers a great seal, and is dishwasher safe.
These bandages are available in five shades, so everyone can cover cuts and discreetly.scrapes
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Label pantry staples with this pocket-size thermal printer that works without ink or toner (just heat!). Download the app to create your own half-inch designs. TO BUY: D30 Inkless Label Maker, phomemo.com.$50;
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A body wash that works like magic: Just mix with water to get scrubbing!
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The powder cuts back on heavy-liquid shipping, and refills mean fewer landfill-bound empties.
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A compostable paper sachet holds the powder formula.
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HAIR AND HIDE
Clever Items Little Things to Make Your Life a Lot Easier
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No more shoving a spare key into your sports bra before a run. These velvet scrunchies have hidden pouches to keep your necessities tucked around your ponytail.
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When it’s time for introductions, these pins will show others how you identify yourself— and that you’re an ally.
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BEVILACQUAMARINABYSTYLINGPROP 30 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022 DELIGHTS
The New Simplifiers
1
TO BUY: Radiance Wash, $28; shinery.com.
Our beauty director tries allll the products to find six picks that make looking great easy.
BY HEATHER MUIR MAFFEI
Photograph by Ted + Chelsea Cavanaugh
A REAL GEM
With this gel, cleaning my engagement ring is as easy as washing my hands. Rub three drops into damp skin and rinse. Glycerin softens hands while fatty acids nix buildup on jewelry, leaving a sparkle that rivals a professional cleaning.
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2
TIME-SAVING TOOL
TO BUY: Utopia Microflora Toner, $44; holifrog.com.
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5
I used to be Team Powder Blush until I got fine lines and the pigment settled right into them. (Rude!) This talc-free gel goes on smooth, thanks to buriti and jojoba oils, and doesn’t get caught in my crevices. Plus, it lasts all day.
SUNSCREEN MADE SEXY
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Nothing beats a spa exfoliation, but this recycled-nylon cloth gives you a similar effect at home. In the shower, saturate it with warm water, add body wash, and scrub to slough off dead skin.
Old me slathered on tons of skin-care products. Two kids later, I love a oneand-done. Meet my sunscreen, antioxidant, primer, and tinted base, all in a single tube. Rub it in with fingers and you’re golden.
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Bad news: You can’t change your pore size. Good news: This serum—with salicylic acid, clarifying enzymes, and oil-reducing red clover—unclogs pores so they appear smaller. I’ll take it.
Anyone else feel like they need extra arms while blow-drying? No longer! Glide this heated brush through dry hair to add volume and shine for a just-left-the-salon style—no curling iron needed.
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Traditional toners turn my reactive cheeks tomato red. This liquid serum keeps them serene with good bacteria from honey and probiotics. Pump into hands and press into skin before serum and moisturizer.
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IT’S AN ENTERTAINING RITUAL. “Sorry about the mess!” the host coos as they open the door to their home, even if the floors are spotless and every surface is shiny and lemon-scented. Then the guest replies, as if on cue, “WhatOnlymess?!”myguests don’t say that. They can’t, when confronted with Encanto figurines on the coffee table, drops of Wite-Out on the hardwood floor, and an apple core in a bowl my son left on the side table where they’d hoped to rest their wineglasses. To save us the embarrassment, I just skip the whole charade. Sorry, not sorry.
AROUNDLOON/SHOPVANSANNYBYILLUSTRATION DELIGHTS OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 35
LEARNING CURVE
a permission slip—proof that no matter how hard I tried, my home would never be spotless, and I should stop feeling bad about it.
ELENI N.GAGE embraces a home aesthetic that’s anything but tidy.
My aunt often repeats her favorite proverb, “You can tell a good housewife by her rug’s fringe”—the implication being that she combs out the tassels so they all face the same way. As a kid, I considered that a benchmark. As an adult, I have no desire to hang out with the kind of person who would inspect a generous host’s fringe and be judgy about what they found.
I do envy my friends whose places look like show homes. But I’ve decided that one of my roles as a host is, instead of impressing guests with an immaculate home, making them feel better about the way they live. When I open the door, I don’t say, “Sorry about the chaos,” and wait for them to reply, “It’s OK.” I let them take it all in, and I think, “The place is a mess. You’re welcome.”
“A Little Mess Is Good for Guests”
Maybe you’re a better person than I am. Maybe, when you hear a 2-yearold having a tantrum in the candy aisle of a drugstore, you think, “Poor kid. Poor mom. They’re having a tough afternoon,” and there’s not a teensy part of your soul that whispers, “Thank goodness that’s not me, not today.”
ELENI N. GAGE IS THE AUTHOR OF FOUR BOOKS, INCLUDING LUCKY IN LOVE.
But I’m not so pure of heart, so I choose to believe that when people see the stuffed animals crammed under my son’s bed, they think, “At least my house isn’t as bad as Eleni’s.” And maybe they’re more likely to invite me over, and less prone to feel expected to start sterilizing once I accept.
I don’t expect people to overlook our mess. I expect them to see it and love me anyway. I’ve even come to view sharing my mess as a kindness. A former roommate always cleared away glasses to signal it was time for everyone to leave; by the reverse logic, my stacks of papers say, “Get comfortable. Add your mess to mine!” I like to think my nonpristine apartment makes visitors feel relaxed. They can just leave their plates on the table when I say, “I’ll clean up tomorrow! Let’s take our wine to the already wine-stained couch.”
It’s not that I don’t see the mess. I’ve just learned my limits. I spent an entire weekend 15 years ago wiping surfaces and removing clutter to host a friend’s baby shower. Then someone brought a 5-year-old in white tights, who slithered around the living room floor and left wearing gray tights, crusted in the dirt everyone tracked in because I hadn’t asked visitors to remove their shoes. I saw those filthy tights as a mark of shame until I realized they were, in fact,
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With a little help from Alexia, finding harmony between sweet and savory has never been more effortless. Just twenty minutes and a hint of sea salt are all these sweet potatoes need to bring a fresh, distinctive variation of flavor to the classic French fry. All without any GMOs or superfluous additives.
SIMPLE TWIST
Ripe for the Baking
ABOUT AIR FRYERS / THE BEST WAY TO PACK / AT-HOME HAIR COLOR
Craving banana bread but don’t have any super-ripe bananas lying around? Make some! Grab whatever ones you’ve got—even if they’re still green—and place them (unpeeled) a few inches apart on a foil-lined baking sheet, says Kimberlee Ho, founder of the cooking blog Kickass Baker. Bake for about 15 minutes at 3500F. They’re ready when they’ve turned dark brown or black all over, just as they would on your counter (only way more slowly). Let them cool before peeling them and scooping out the flesh, which will be a bit moist—a bonus for muffins and breads. —Teddy Willson
SPOLLENCLAIREBYSTYLINGPROPGRAY;MELISSABYSTYLINGFOOD OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 41 GUIDES
ALL
Photograph by Antonis Achilleos
Healthy(ish) Breakfast
Photograph by Antonis Achilleos
Your air fryer will be your best friend when you’re entertaining. Prepare frozen appetizers—puff pastry tarts, pot stickers, pigs in blankets—while you socialize. Or shape prosciutto slices into little piles and roast at 350°F for five minutes to make crispy roses—great for a cheese board or salad.
Reheating Right
Roasted Veggies
THINGS COOKS KNOW
Use your air fryer to revive leftovers, even last night’s soggy takeout fries. Cook them or other once-crunchy foods, like onion rings, tater tots, or chicken fingers, in the basket at 350°F for about five minutes, tossing halfway through. You can also restore leftover pizza to its crispy, gooey glory.
Tanya Harris, blogger at My Forking Life, loves to make simple vegetarian dishes, like sweet potato wedges and roasted broccoli, in her air fryer. “It heats up incredibly fast, so I add vegetables plus a splash of oil to the basket and enjoy a healthy and crunchy side dish in 10 to 20 minutes,” she says. Just be sure not to overfill the basket. “Keeping food in a single layer allows for airflow on all sides, which is key for crispiness,” Harris says.
An App for That
SPOLLENCLAIREBYSTYLINGPROPGRAY;MELISSABYSTYLINGFOOD GUIDES 42 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
When the craving for a sugary treat strikes, these ovens are just the right size to bake goodies for one or two people. Weinstein loves whipping up s’mores or frying a Snickers bar coated in graham cracker crumbs. For a super-simple, refined dessert, bake delicate puff pastry shells at 400°F for 12 minutes, turning halfway through. Let cool slightly, then top with jam or pie filling.
Your First Fry
Crispy, Crunchy, and Quick
Air fryer holdouts, prepare to be converted by these expert ideas for maximizing the countertop miracle.
BY LIZZY BRISKIN
eggs, no water needed. Harris tosses chopped potatoes and sausage into her basket for a filling meal without grease splatters.
Easy Desserts
In the morning, let your air fryer do the heavy lifting of getting breakfast on the table. It can hard- or soft-boil whole
If you’re new to air frying, start with a deep-fried classic that will make you a believer: chicken wings. Season wings and roast them at 400°F for about 25 minutes, tossing every five minutes, suggests Bruce Weinstein, coauthor of The Essential Air Fryer Cookbook. “Your chicken will be browned and crispy beyond belief,” he says. Remember that the word “air” is a bit misleading, because whatever you cook still requires a light coating of oil. You can use a nonstick spray or a pumpand-spray canister of olive oil (spray the food with oil before adding it to the basket). Still, it beats the vat of hot grease you’d otherwise need for that fresh-from-the-fryer crunch.
The first thing to know about an air fryer is that it isn’t a fryer at all, but a mini convection oven. It cooks more quickly and uses less energy than a conventional oven, and it has officially outgrown its “newfangled gadget” status. Avid users love that you can set it and forget it, that food requires less fat, and that the machine is easier to clean than regular ovens and deep fryers (just hand-wash the basket to help maintain its nonstick coating). Here’s how to create tasty snacks, meals, and treats.
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Sure, you know the basics. But with these tricks and hacks, you’ll really get cracking!
Stay Centered: To get the yolks more centered in the white (if you’re making deviled eggs, say), store eggs with the narrow, point-side down before you cook them, says Lisa Steele, author of The Fresh Eggs Daily Cookbook
SCRAMBLE SMARTS
BROUGHT TO YOU BY EGGLAND'S BEST
Good Eggs
BY JENNA HELWIG
THINGS COOKS KNOW
For Easier Peeling: Eggs that have been sitting uncooked in the fridge for a week are easiest to peel, since tiny amounts of air permeate the shell and create a separation between it and the membrane. In a pinch, doing the job under running water can also help.
The Method: Many recipes call for placing eggs in water and then bringing it to a boil, but that can easily lead to overcooking unless you’re watching that pot like a hawk. For perfect results every time, start by bringing half a pot of water to boil—and then using a slotted spoon to gently lower in the eggs. (If any of the eggs reveal small cracks, eat them the same day they’re cooked.) Reduce heat to a medium-simmer and cook for 11-12 minutes for cooked-through yolks. Remove the eggs with the slotted spoon and place in a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking. Refrigerate in the shells for up to five days.
BAKE IT EASY
The Method: For classic creamy scrambled eggs, go low and slow: melt butter in a nonstick pan over mediumlow heat. Add whisked eggs, and using a silicone spatula or spoon, move the cooked egg to the center of the pan, allowing the uncooked egg to flow to the outer edges, and repeat. For bigger curds, stir less. For dryer eggs, cook longer. But whatever you do, don’t keep the eggs on the heat too long. “The quickest way to toughen eggs is to overcook them, since they’ll continue to cook off the heat,” says Ali Slagle, author of I Dream of Dinner (So You Don’t Have To). “Pull them just before they’re cooked to your liking.”
Jazz ’Em Up: Eggs are ripe for seasoning before they even hit the pan. “For more personality, whisk in a flavor-booster like tomato paste, soy sauce, pesto, hot sauce, Parmesan, or finely chopped herbs,” Slagle says.
Temp Tip: If you forgot to take eggs out of the fridge before baking, plop them in a bowl of very warm water for about 10 minutes.
Cold When It Counts: Need yolks or whites only? Straight-from-the-fridge eggs are easiest to separate, since the yolks are less likely to break.
For a Fluffy Scramble: Shake the eggs in a jar with a lid instead of whisking them in a bowl. The more air you can introduce into the eggs before you scramble them, the lighter and fluffier the cooked eggs will be, Steele says.
recipetoReadybake?Trythishere.
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The Method: Many baking recipes, especially those that involve creaming together butter and eggs, call for room temperature eggs. And while you may be tempted to ignore that direction if you’re in a hurry to get your cake in the oven, it’s important not to skip this step. A cold egg will chill the butter in the recipe into clumps, and you’ll be stuck beating a rough, chunky batter instead of a smooth one. Room temp egg whites are also better if you’re making a meringue for cookies, a pavlova, or a pie topping, since you’ll be able to whip more air into them than if they were cold. To bring an egg to room temperature, set it on the counter a half-hour before you start the recipe.
A BETTER BOIL
ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES
11/2 tsp. ground cinnamon, divided, plus more for topping
2 cups packed light brown sugar, divided
If autumn were a dessert, it would be this easy, delicious caramel-apple creation.
BY ANNA THEOKTISTO
TOTAL TIME 45 MINUTES
11/4 cups (21/2 sticks) unsalted butter, divided
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
MELT remaining 1 cup butter in microwave or on stove. Whisk in vanilla and remaining 11/2 cups sugar and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon until well combined. Whisk in eggs until smooth. Whisk in flour, baking pow der, and salt until just combined.
1 tsp. baking powder
SERVES 12
PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Melt 1/4 cup butter in a 10-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Stir in apples, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook over medium-high, stirring often, until apples are tender and syrup begins to thicken, about 15 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl. (Do not wipe skillet clean.)
SPOLLENCLAIREBYSTYLINGPROPGRAY;MELISSABYSTYLINGFOOD
SWEET THING
APPLE PIE SKILLET CAKE
Fold in 11/2 cups cooked apples, reserving remaining apples and syrup in bowl. Pour batter into skillet. BAKE until a wooden pick inserted in center of cake comes out clean, 25 to 30 minutes. Top with remaining cooked apples and syrup. Dust with more cinnamon and serve with ice cream.
2 large eggs
1 tsp. kosher salt
Photograph by Antonis Achilleos
OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 45 GUIDES
2 cups all-purpose flour
Vanilla ice cream, for serving
4 Honeycrisp or Gala apples (about 2 lb.), thinly sliced
Adopt a WorkingRetiredDog trained, socialized pups can be wonderful companions. Here’s to them a fur ever home.
Guide Dogs
ORGANIZATIONS: The Seeing Eye, Guiding Eyes for the Blind, and Guide Dogs of America, among others. If you’re interested in adopting, get in touch with one of these organizations ASAP, as some have years-long waiting lists.
THE LOWDOWN: Nearly half of dogs trained to assist people with vision loss—along with other auditory, physical, and cognitive disabilities— never graduate. “They may have health issues, lack confidence, or be easily distracted,” says Peggy Gibbon, director of canine development at the Seeing Eye in Morristown, New Jersey. But just because they’re not up to guide dog standards doesn’t mean these friendly, intelligent pups won’t be the perfect addition to your family (as long as no one is allergic, of course). You can apply to adopt one, or volunteer to raise a puppy before they enter official training (at roughly 11/2 years old). If the pup ends up being unfit for guide dog life, you may be able to adopt them permanently.
BY JUNO D E MELO
BREEDS: Labs, golden retrievers, and German shepherds take to the training well, so they’re the most common breeds trained to be guide dogs.
AVERAGE RETIREMENT AGE: 2 to 4 years old.
These
PETS
how
give
ROSS/STOCKSYJAMES GUIDES OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 47
ORGANIZATIONS: Mission K9 Rescue and the Warrior Dog Foundation, among others.
THE LOWDOWN: These gentle dogs are accustomed to spending a lot of time with people and other greyhounds, and they tend to do well in crates when needed. “Though they can get to 40 miles per hour in just a few strides, greyhounds are mostly couch potatoes,” says Moira Corrigan, president of Greyhound Pets Inc. in Woodinville, Washington. They do need exercise, she adds, and stresses the importance of keeping them on a leash or in a securely fenced area to prevent them from bolting after dogs, squirrels, and neighborhood critters. Few racetracks remain in the U.S., but many states still have multiple adoption groups, to find homes for retired greyhounds from other countries, as well as for greyhound mixes called lurchers that are occasionally used for hunting or racing.
48 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
AVERAGE RETIREMENT AGE: 9 to 10 years old.
Protection & Detection Dogs
BREEDS: Belgian Malinois and German shepherds. The Transportation Security Administration sometimes uses Labrador retrievers, vizslas, and German shorthaired pointers as well.
BREED: Greyhounds.
It’s a good time to bring home a four-legged friend; since 1981, American Humane has OctoberdesignatedAdopt-a-DogMonth.
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Racing Dogs
AVERAGE RETIREMENT AGE: 2 to 5 years old.
ORGANIZATIONS: Greyhound Pets Inc., the Greyhound Project Inc., Greyhound Pets of America, National Greyhound Association, and the American Lurcher Project, among others.
THE LOWDOWN: The armed forces, law enforcement, and military contractors work with dogs to sniff out drugs and explosives. Some dogs even attack, if needed. “In 95 percent of cases, handlers will adopt their dogs once the animals retire,” says Bob Bryant, cofounder and chief technology officer of Mission K9 Rescue in Needville, Texas. But sometimes the handler has an incompatible situation at home—small children or other pets. Other times a foreign handler is prohibited from adopting the dog, so the dog returns to the U.S. with nowhere to go. You may need to live in a kid-free household, and certain health issues might arise from the dog’s years of service that can be costly. But if you’re an experienced pet parent, protection and detection dogs can make loyal and obedient companions.
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I practice good oral hygiene and see my dentist regularly. So why does my breath smell so beastly?
You should feel empowered to ask your doctor anything. But since that can be hard, we collected a few key answers from the experts to help you along.
Your Most Embarrassing Health Questions, Answered
“One of the more likely culprits is dehydration,” says Mirissa Price, DMD, assistant professor of pediatric dentistry at Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry and spokesperson for the American Dental Association. “This can come from not drinking enough water or from taking certain medications, like antidepressants or antihistamines, which can give you ‘sticky saliva’—a more viscous saliva that holds food particles in the mouth longer. That supports a shift in bacteria, which can leave a strong odor.”
HEALTHY AT HOME
BY NAOMI BARR
IT HAPPENS TO THE BEST OF US. Your doctor asks, “Is there anything else you’d like to discuss?” And yes, there is, but as you sit there wearing a giant paper napkin, you just can’t muster the gumption to broach your occasional incontinence. Though bringing up embarrassing issues with your doctor can make you feel vulnerable, judged, or just silly, your health may depend on it. So don’t be shy—there’s nothing your doctor hasn’t heard before. In the meantime, to give you some preliminary answers, REAL SIMPLE asked readers to send us their most embarrassing health questions. We took them straight to the experts.
Illustrations by Asia Pietrzyk50 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022 GUIDES
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If these little surprises are occurring regularly, you may have a weakened inner sphincter or a disorder of the rectum (the last part of the colon), says
It can be caused by an excess of male hormones called androgens, due to genetics or a number of conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (a hormonal disorder common in women of reproductive age); disorders of the thyroid, pituitary, or adrenal glands; or insulin resistance. It can also result from menopause or certain medications. “Your doctor may order lab work to check on your estrogen, testosterone, or thyroid levels to find possible underlying causes,” Sims says.
Lately after my workouts, I’m Couldespecially…fragrant.itbemenopauserelated?
To get rid of that not-so-fresh feeling, drink plenty of water, of course, and “try chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on xylitol lozenges, which stimulate saliva production,” Price says. (Try Act or TheraBreath dry mouth lozenges, available at drugstores.) If that doesn’t help, make an appointment to see your dentist and primary care physician. The former can check for gum disease and discuss diet, while the latter can talk to you about your medications or any ongoing stomach problems, as well as rule out more serious conditions.
Other possible causes, Price says: medical conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease or acid reflux, which can cause stomach gases to rise into your mouth (a.k.a. burping), or the postnasal drip that comes with respiratory illnesses or seasonal allergies.
Aline Charabaty, MD, assistant clinical director of the gastroenterology division at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and a spokesperson for the American Gastroenterological Association. Our anal sphincter has an outer portion we can control (the one we relax or tighten when we do or don’t want to let out whatever is behind it), and an inner one we can’t. “When the inner one weakens, it may not be able to prevent some stool from leaking out when you pass gas,” Charabaty says. She adds that there are many reasons our sphincter might lose some of its muscle tone, including the strain of pregnancy and childbirth, menopause (once again, blame lower estrogen), and simply age.
Also, “sometimes the rectum loses the ability to tell whether there’s only gas in there or also stool,” she says. This signaling misfire may be due to inflammation in the lining of the rectum (called proctitis), which can result from inflammatory bowel disease, like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, or other causes, including pregnancy, polyps, or something more serious, like rectal cancer. If this issue persists, see a Yougastroenterologist.canalsotrydoing Kegel exercises to help strengthen the pelvic floor and anal muscles; building those up may prevent some leakage. Just squeeze the muscles you’d squeeze if you were stopping urine midstream, hold for several seconds, and release. Repeat throughout the day (say, during tedious Zoom calls). As with any exercise, you’ll probably need to keep at it for a few months before you experience results.
You might suddenly become more aromatic for nonmenopausal reasons. Hyperthyroidism—when your thyroid gland produces more hormones than
First of all, know that you’re not alone. Excess hair growth, or hirsutism, typically appears on the upper lip, chin, chest, or back and affects between 5 and 15 percent of women, Sims says.
“Menopause is a time of many hormonal changes,” says Kourtney Sims, MD, an ob-gyn in Houston and chief medical adviser to the menopause personal-care company Phenology. The drop in estrogen affects the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that controls body temperature. As a result, you may end up sweating more—and the sweatier you are, the stinkier you are.
When I pass gas, it isn’t always just gas. What’s going on?
Possibly. Have you noticed you’re sweating more during menopause?
52 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022 GUIDES
I’m a woman, and hair is growing on my back and chest. Fur real! What can I do?
your body can handle—can cause excessive sweating, along with a rapid heartbeat, unexplained weight loss, and other symptoms. And sweat that smells fruity or sweet could be a sign of undiagnosed diabetes, Sims says. More specifically, it could indicate diabetic ketoacidosis, which occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin and begins to break down fat instead of sugar for fuel. If you suspect either of these conditions, give your doctor a call as soon as possible.
STOP SMOKING According to the Susan G. Komen organization, women who currently smoke and have done so for more than 10 years could have a 10 percent higher risk of breast cancer.
EXERCISE The National Cancer Institute reports that in a 2016 metaanalysis of 38 studies, the most physically active women had a 12 to 21 percent lower risk of breast cancer than those who were the least physically active. Aim for a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, plus strength training at least twice a week.
include an injury to the nipple, such as scarring from breastfeeding, or complications from breast surgery. Or you may have a condition called duct ectasia, in which the milk ducts thicken and fill with fluid (even if you’ve never breastfed), causing the nipple to become inflamed and pull inward.
One of my nipples is suddenly inverted and itchy. Should I be doing anything about this?
There’s never a bad time to make lifestyle changes that can help protect you against the disease that accounts for about 30 percent of all female can cers in the United States each year. But Breast Cancer Awareness Month could be a good time to start. A few sound strategies:
“Actually, in most cases, they don’t,” says Sunir Garg, MD, professor of ophthalmology at Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia and clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. A specialist like an eye doctor would need to know your weight only in very specific situations—for example, if you’re taking a drug with a dosage that depends on body weight, like hydroxychloroquine (often prescribed for lupus or rheumatoid arthritis). If your weight drops but the dosage doesn’t change, the drug could rise to toxic levels, damaging your retina and other parts of the eye, Garg says. Ask whether there’s a medically necessary reason to be weighed. If they can’t give you one, you can respectfully decline.
OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 55 GUIDES
5 HABITS TO REDUCE YOUR BREAST CANCER RISK
“When a tumor is near the skin or nipple, it can cause the shortening of what we call Cooper’s ligaments, which are bands of fibrous tissue that help support the breast,” Tanna says. “These ligaments can get shortened when the tissue scars and flattens, pulling the nipple inward.” Anytime you notice a physical change in the breast (thickening or swelling, irritated or dimpled skin, redness or flakiness), see your primary care physician or ob-gyn.
Have that checked out as soon as possible, recommends Neil Tanna, MD, a breast reconstructive surgeon in Great Neck, New York, and professor of surgery at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. There are several possible explanations. “An inverted nipple could signal an infection of the milk duct, which lies under the nipple,” Tanna says. (This usually occurs in women who are breastfeeding.)
Most specialists need to know your weight only in specific situations, so feel free to say no to the scale.
For postmenopausal women especially, being overweight or obese may increase risk. Fat cells produce estrogen, which fuels 67 to 80 percent of breast cancers in women.
And speaking of breast practices, check out the sidebar on the right for lifestyle tips that can reduce your cancer risk.
CUT BACK ON BOOZE Even one daily drink can raise your risk by at least 5 percent, according to the American Institute for Cancer Research. Consider kicking back with a mocktail instead.
—Amy Maclin
Why does my eye doctor need to weigh me when I go in for an appointment?
Also, not to scare you, but an inverted nipple can be a sign of breast cancer.
EAT WELL According to a 2019 review published in the journal Nutrients, the good old Mediterranean diet—full of fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and healthy fats, like olive oil— may reduce the risk of breast cancer. This is possibly because it provides vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that can neutralize damaging free radicals.
It could also be due to bacteria, a clogged mammary duct, or an abscess— inflammation from the infection can pull the nipple backward and cause itchiness. Other possible causes
MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT
How to Pack Like a Pro
BY ERICA FINAMORE
Be Prepared
There’s nothing like lost luggage to get your trip off to a rocky start. Travel expert and blogger Jeff Jenkins, creator of ChubbyDiaries.com, always keeps one outfit (including underwear and toiletries) in his carry-on. “If my luggage is lost, I’ll have something to wear for that day or the next,” he says.
Pack with a Palette
IF YOU’VE EVER sat on your suitcase to force it shut, you know how tough packing light can be. Or maybe you’re the type who’s constantly looking for drugstores in new cities to grab what you forgot. The what-to-bring struggle is real. Since the more you travel, the more you figure it out, we turned to travel writers, photographers, and editors for panic-free packing wisdom.
GUIDES 56 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
When you’re trying to cram your every need into one bag, is there a method to the madness? Frequent fliers say yep, there sure is! Here are their favorite suitcase-stuffing secrets.
“I like to keep my wardrobe color range simple when I travel for flexibility and versatility,” says Cuan Hanly, chief design officer for the luggage brand Away. He’s a big fan of navy blue, so most of his pieces are in that shade. And he always packs a pair of white sneakers, which go with almost anything.
TRAVEL
Roll with It
It’s the age-old question: To roll or to fold? According to REAL SIMPLE fashion editor Flavia Nunez, do both! She folds easy-to-wrinkle fabrics and rolls lightweight basics. “This lets me play with space and fit everything like a puzzle,” she says.
When Siegel packs, she uses these quality shoe bags to keep her dirty kicks from touching her clean clothes. TO BUY: Compressible Shoe Bag, from $25; knackbags.com.
“For packing dress shirts, I use the magazine method,” says travel photographer Becca Siegel. Fold the sleeves and body of your shirt around a magazine, then slide it out. It gives you Mom-would-be-proud creases, and saves space in your bag.
3 SUIT UP
Use Every Inch
These comfy slip-on sneakers make getting through security a breeze (or at least a little faster), Nunez says. TO BUY: Low Shoe, $125; oofos.com.
6 FOOTLOOSE
TO BUY: Travel Pouch Set, $95; statebags.com.
Compression Bags Give You Breathing Room
Nunez packs her toiletries, makeup, and skin-care items in these color-coded pouches so she always knows which one to grab.
That half-eaten cereal bar you brought on the plane and the $5 umbrella you picked up at your destination? Leave ’em. “If I finish a book, I’ll ‘donate’ it to the location or give it to someone I met on the trip,” Gifford says. “It saves space and weight.” Not to mention it’s a cool way to pay it forward!
Hold Some, Fold Some
Nunez uses the wrap as a blanket to keep warm during the flight, then wears it as a shawl while out and about at her destination. TO BUY: CozyChic Travel Set, barefootdreams.com.$188;
“Jumpsuits are a traveler’s best friend,” Gifford says. This ultra-wearable one can be dressed up with a tailored denim jacket and heels.
1 SOFT SHOE
TO BUY: Jumpsuit,StretchTechSleevelessWrap-Effect$50;oldnavy.com.
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4 GRAB BAG
Plan Around Your Shoes
1 5 2 6 3 4 MANUFACTURERSOFCOURTESYIMAGESPRODUCTBONNINSTUDIO/STOCKSY; OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 57
“Shoes are typically the least malleable thing in my suitcase, so I pack them first, along with hard toiletries and other hard items, on the zippered side of my suitcase,” Hanly says. This helps him see how much space is left for other things, and maximize it.
5 BAG OF TRICKS
WHAT TO BRING
Pointdujour packs an empty duffel for souvenirs. This one folds up easily.
Great packers let no suitcase corner go unused. Travel + Leisure editor in chief Jacqui Gifford makes sure even her shoe cavities are working hard. “I stash my socks inside sneakers,” she says. “And I fill dead space with undergarments and bathing suits.”
Leave It Behind
If you’re looking for a packing game changer, travel writer Danielle Pointdujour has it: compression bags. You know, the ones you suck the air out of to make your clothes super flat. “You can squeeze a week’s worth of clothing into one bag without taking up much space,” she says.
2 RED-EYE HERO
TO BUY: Accelerator Duffel Bag, $45; us.puma.com.
Makeclub.afashion statement with bright colors, bold patterns, and tropical prints. Bring a swimsuit and lightweight cover-up for the beach and beat the heat with breezy dresses and matching two-piece sets. Wear espadrilles or stylish sneakers during the day, then slip into a pair of chic block heel sandals for dinner, drinks, and dancing.
RACK UP REWARDS
Kickstart your Miami adventure by taking advantage of the gorgeous coastline. The city is home to more than a dozen beaches where you can stroll down bustling boardwalks, try your hand at water activities like snorkeling and kayaking, or simply lounge with a tropical drink in hand.
BROUGHT TO YOU BY CAPITAL ONE. WHAT’S IN YOUR WALLET?
Beyond the beach, explore The Magic City’s countless art galleries and museums and take an airboat tour through the Everglades. Enjoy an authentic Cuban sandwich in Little Havana and visit the Design District for luxury shopping, fine dining, and a world-class collection of public art. Get a taste of the lively nightlife at a rooftop bar, local brewery, or dance
TRAVEL WITH EASE
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MAXIMIZEEXPERIENCETRAVELYOUR
Every three months, remove any items you store up there, and try to find a new home for them. Break out the stepladder and wipe the surface with a damp microfiber cloth or extendable duster. If your fridge is near the range, you’ll have grease buildup too, so scrub the top with a mixture of warm water (one quart) and dish soap (two teaspoons) twice a month.
CLEAN THIS
HARD-TO-REACH SPACES
60 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022 GUIDES
TOP OF THE FRIDGE
If dust falls onto the top of your fridge and no one’s tall enough to see it, is it really dirty? Um, yes. Here’s what to do about those tricky spots that are easy to overlook—and could probably use a good scrub.
Illustration by Andrea Mongia
Up High
CEILING FANS
BY TEDDY WILLSON
You’d think all that spinning would keep crud from accumulating, but alas. Tackle fans before you clean the rest of the room so you can get rid of any fallen dust afterward. Use an extendable duster, ideally one that reaches six feet and pivots to hit awkward angles. Start from the top and work your way down: rod, motor, tops of blades, bottoms of blades, light fixture. Clean your fans at least every three months (preferably more often). Make sure the light is off and cool before starting, or the duster’s fibers could stick to the bulb or shade. Pro Tip: If you don’t have an extendable duster, cover a paint roller with a microfiber cloth to get some extra height. Wipe the blades gently, because they aren’t meant to hold weight.
Better ControlTemperature
One benefit of hybrid heating is the ability to keep your home at a consistent, comfortable temperature in every season. Pairing this dual approach with a smart thermostat, like the American Standard AccuLink™ Platinum 1050 Control, enables you to optimize the comfort and efficiency of your home from virtually anywhere. REAL
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Better Air Quality
Want greater control over energy costs and a lower environmental impact? With a hybrid system, your gas furnace only runs on the coldest days, and your heat pump does its part on those days when it’s just cool outside. Each works at the stage when it is most efficient, which is good for your utility bill and the planet.
Today’s efficient, airtight homes are excellent at conserving energy—but that makes them better at trapping irritants in your home. Heat pumps with a whole home air purifier can filter allergens and pollutants from the air before they enter your home for better air quality throughout your house.
Conditioning.Heatingattheheatingbenefitoyoureffiit’scomfortable—andmoreamoreenergycientwaytoheathome.ReadonlearnaboutthetsofahybridsystemfromcomfortspecialistsAmericanStandardandAir
We
SIMPLE HOME
Check out the REAL SIMPLE HOME on page 106 of this issue!
A
Learn more at americanstandardair.com spend about 90% of our time indoors, and 65% of that time is spent at home. hybrid heating system that pairs a gas furnace with a heat pump can help make the time you spend inside
SCAN TO SEE THE SIMPLE WAYS YOU CAN HELP OR VISIT DOGCHOW.COM/VETS OUR MISSION: PTSD Service Dogs for every veteran in need PTSD service dogs save lives. That’s why in its fifth year, the Dog Chow Service Dog Salute program is celebrating $1 million in donations to help support the lives and training of more PTSD service dogs for America’s veterans. Purina trademarks are owned by Société des Produits Nestlé S.A.
AROUND THE TOILET
At least once a week, spritz the floor, wall, and bottom of the porcelain throne with a nontoxic disinfecting spray or rubbing
SLIDING GLASS DOOR TRACKS
Down Low
AIR VENTS
While scrubbing the bowl and seat is a normal part of your cleaning routine, it’s easy to skip over that cavern around the toilet—but it needs attention!
Don’t look down, or you might see dirt and crumbs clinging to the grease on your tracks! Every two weeks, use the crevice vacuum attachment (the skinny one with an angled head) to grab all the loose stuff (dust, bugs, hair, pollen). If your tracks are near noncarpeted floors, spray them with a disinfectant after vacuuming. Let it sit according to the label, then scrub with a softbristle angled brush.
Maybe you remember to change your AC filter every few months (huzzah!), but chances are, your air vents have been gathering debris since Harry and Meghan left England. If so, remove the vent covers and either run them through the dishwasher or soak them in soap and water to release the dust. Clean between the slats with a soft-bristle vacuum attachment. Get into the habit of conquering your vents every few months.
Deep Clean Brush Set, $9; oxo.com.
Pro Tip: Tackle two projects at once by swapping in your seasonal clothes or doing a donation purge while everything is removed.
HARDWORKINGNATURALCLEANER
ANGELA BROWN, FOUNDER OF THE HOUSE CLEANER TRAINING COMPANY SAVVY CLEANER JILL KOCH, FOUNDER OF THE BLOG JILL COMES CLEAN KELLSIE R. ZAPATA, CO-OWNER OF ZAPATA’S CLEANING SERVICES IN THOMASVILLE, GEORGIA
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The Spruce Stain and Odor Remover, $12; amazon.com.
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Bathroom Cleaner, $9; athosliving.com.
Tools for the Job
SMELL-LIFTINGSPRAY
ANGLED BRUSH
Heavy Duty 6 ft Super Extender, $15; swiffer.com.
Pro Tip: If you can’t stomach cleaning the toilet by hand, consider investing in a steam cleaner, which can disinfect with a few passes. The handle helps you sanitize from afar, though you’ll have to dry the toilet once you’re done.
If you’re battling odors, look for a cleaner moleculesenzymes.containingTheycanbreakdownsmellyratherthanmaskthem.
Swiffer Dusters
alcohol, then wipe with a microfiber cloth. Remember to open the windows, crank the fan, and never mix cleaning products (combining rubbing alcohol with bleach, for example, can create toxic fumes). And always check your products’ safety instructions.
OUR EXPERTS
CLOSET FLOOR
Vacuum what you can reach during your weekly pass. Every three months, clear away anything on the floor, as well as any long hanging clothes, and do a deeper clean. Use a vacuum hose to suck up cobwebs and dander in the back corners and along the baseboards. Wipe noncarpeted floors with a damp cloth and mild cleaner.
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THE 20-MINUTE REORG
Fill with glasses and liquor and—cheers!—you have a rolling bar cart. TO CART Christopher
Photograph by
Testani MANUFACTURERSOFCOURTESYIMAGESPRODUCT OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 65 GUIDES
There’s nothing fun about digging through dry goods to find what you need right now . SHAINA BURRELL OF THE HOME EDIT shares her tips for reclaiming that precious real estate (and your sanity).
Take everything out and put like with like, grouping items based on their use—think baking, snacks, and even breakfast.
Food packaging isn’t super attractive (or mothproof), and it takes up space. Pour grains, cereal, and nuts into clear foodgrade containers to make them neater and easier to locate.
TO BUY: 3-Tier Rolling Cart, $40; containerstore.com.
Pantry Do-Over!
Deep closets can turn into black holes. We used the empty wall space behind the cart to hang hooks for aprons and tea towels. TO BUY: Squared Away Hook Rack, $30; binsstoreAvoidbedbathandbeyond.com.amidrecipetriptothebykeepingfoodinclearsoyoucanseehowmuchisleft.
1
Now that thepaperextraproductstheheftybottlesplacement.goods,streamlinedyou’veyourthinkaboutPutsodaandotheritemstowardbottomandyouhavestockof(liketowels)towardtop.
2 DECANT
Createcontainerstore.com.amovablefeastwithawheeledcart!Wemadeasundaebar,butyoucanalsodoalunch-packingorcookie-decoratingstation.
Distinctive Collection by Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate® offers the service and market experience you would expect from a brand whose legacy was built upon a passion for the home. Let us help you find or sell yours. Sign up for the Distinctive Collection Newsletter and receive a FREE Luxury Staging Guide bhgrecollection.com/blog/subscribe
©2022 Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC (“BHGRE”). All Rights Reserved. Better Homes and Gardens®, Distinctive Collection by Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate®, and the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate logo are registered service marks owned by Meredith Operations Corporation and licensed to BHGRE. BHGRE fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated.
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Relocation can get pricey—here’s how to avoid spending more than you need to.
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Photograph by Ted Chelsea
+
Cavanaugh GUIDES 70 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
Install the Avado 2-in-1 Faucet with Filtration and you’ll have cleaner, healthier water straight from the tap.
MONEY
New place? How about some fresh water?
BY KRISTIN WONG
The Hidden Costs of Moving
Hacks like that make a difference. The average cost of a long-distance move in the United States is $4,890, according to data from Moving.com, but even just switching neighborhoods can hit your budget in ways you didn’t expect. The next time you prep for a move, arm yourself with the knowhow to avoid surprise expenses.
WHEN MANISHA THAKOR moved from Santa Fe, New Mexico, to Portland, Oregon, in 2015 after her divorce, she was looking for a fresh start. Since she was going solo, she planned to fly to her new home, send her belongings via freight, and ship her silver Mini Cooper through a transport company. Shipping the car would cost $800 whether it was chock-full or empty, so Manisha had a genius idea: She’d pack it with as many bulky, low-value belongings as possible to save on freight costs. “I stuffed it with office supplies, my printer, and bedding,” she says, estimating she saved about $500.
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Decluttering can make your move easier—and cheaper. It can actually cost less to buy replacements for your new home than to take certain items with you. This is especially true for bulky or heavy stuff, like old furniture and appliances that might need replacing soon anyway. Remember, charitable donations can be tax deductible—another way to save a few bucks. “Create a list of items you want to get rid of that you can donate to charity,” says Dmytro Serheeiv, a tax expert based in Odessa, Ukraine. “Keep your itemized receipt to claim the deduction after you move.”
If you’re moving out of a rental, your lease should include clear guidelines for recouping your security deposit. “Review the language to make sure you’ve covered all you need to at the time of moving out,” says Lea Satterfield, a financial coach in Kansas City, Missouri. Depending on the condition of the rental, you might need to pay for cleaning or other maintenance. If you painted the walls a bold shade, for example, the lease might specify that you repaint them in their original color. And keep your receipts! If the landlord refuses to return your deposit, in most states you can file a complaint through your state’s attorney general or consumer protection office. Finally, take photos—ideally ones that include a date and time stamp—before you leave. “Your landlord can request a walk-through to ensure there are no issues, but photographic evidence will be key if you need to prove how the space was left,” Satterfield says.
Don’t Waste Money on Furniture That Doesn’t Fit
Before you get any quotes from movers, pad your budget for two costs that people often forget to factor in: the tip for the people hauling your stuff (5 to 20 percent of the total cost of your move) and insurance. Most moving companies offer extra insurance, which can be tempting to skip. But it’s not uncommon for items to be damaged or even lost in transit, so the insurance may be a wise buy. Expect to spend 1 to 2 percent of your property’s value. Getting multiple bids for moving costs is standard practice, as it is with other home-related projects. Just know that many moving companies have additional charges that might not appear in the quote, like fees for stairs, bulky items, and after-hours moving. Read the fine print on what’s included and what would be an add-on so you know you’re comparing apples to
Many of the hidden costs of moving are convenience costs, like ordering takeout because you don’t remember where you put your kitchen supplies. Moving experts recommend packing (and clearly labeling!) a “first night” box with your high-priority items— toothbrush, towels, cosmetics, electronics, and cooking tools. Having these things on hand will save you from making a last-minute purchase for, say, a new laptop charger because you’re not sure which box it’s in. And order groceries to be delivered to your new place for the first night you’re there. This way you will have a fridge full of food and won’t need to order out.
Pare Down Before You Pack
While it may be fun to imagine having that adorable couch in your new living room right away, wait to buy it until you’re officially occupying the space. If furniture doesn’t fit, color- or size-wise, the return costs and restocking fees can be expensive. As for moving your existing furniture, take measurements of your new home—particularly the doors and stairwells—before you move in. This way, you won’t pay to transport a table that can’t fit through the front door, or a bookcase that can’t make the tight turn up the stairs.
“I think most people spend more than they need to during their first few weeks or months in a new place just because they don’t know their way around,” says Jan Kalina, a relocation consultant in Prague. You might opt for the closest gas station when a much cheaper one is just a few blocks farther. Or maybe you sign up for a pricey gym membership before you discover the free yoga classes in the park. Whatever the scenario, it pays to research your neighborhood beforehand. Read online reviews, search for local businesses, and talk to neighbors. “You can save yourself a lot of stress and money if you do your homework and come prepared,” Kalina says.
If you have a friend who can help get your couch down the stairs, it’s cheaper to buy them a pizza than to pay a mover’s stair fee.
Prioritize Your Unpacking
GUIDES 72 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
apples on bids. You may be able to cut out some of these fees. Disassembling furniture yourself could help you avoid the bulky-item fee, for example. Or if you have a friend who can help get your couch down the stairs, it’s cheaper to buy them a pizza than to pay a mover’s stair fee.
Avoid Moving Company Fees
Get Your Deposit Back
Learn About Your New Neighborhood
Fill pitchers, pots, pet bowls, reusable water bottles, and more with cleaner, healthier water straight from your kitchen tap!
IN THE KITCHEN
IN YOUR HOME
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Apply this mask (in seven shades) to clean, damp hair. In five minutes, the rich pigments turn color from dull to brilliant.
BEST SEMIPERMANENT COLOR
BEST HIGHLIGHTS
TO BUY: $18; gooddyeyoung.com.
MANUFACTURERSOFCOURTESYIMAGESPRODUCTYOUNG;DYEGOODOFCOURTESY 74 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022 GUIDES
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This rainbow array of 38 shades makes going bold less stressful, since the salon-grade color fades after 24 washes. Plus, the formula is spiked with bergamot essential oil, a potential mood booster. Do a patch test to make sure you like the color, then fully coat dry hair for 30 minutes before rinsing with cool water (skip shampoo). And if you’re looking for a subtle tint rather than a saturated color, dilute the dye by mixing it into a hair mask before applying.
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If your color tends to go brassy, these leave-in mists neutralize yellow and orange tones. Spritz as needed. TOBUY: $24 each; ulta.com.
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BY LISA D E SANTIS
Good Dye Young Semi-Permanent Hair Color
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There’s a reason highlights are pricey: They’re hard work! This brand’s detailed how-tos, the wishbone applicator, and a little patience gave us salonlike color without the hefty cost. TO BUY: madison-reed.com.$45;
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Developed by colorists, this ammonia-free dye covers stubborn grays and adds dimension.
Want to try a vivid shade, or just fix those roots? These winners (out of dozens tested) will help you get the results you want from the comfort of your own bathroom.
ToningAll-in-OneSpray
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TOBUY: $8; walmart.com.
CASHMERE TURTLENECK
For casual Friday, let a colorful shirt pop out from under your sweater. A belt bag adds shape—sling it across your body or wear it like a fanny pack.
Not sure what to wear to the office? Grab a fall-friendly basic, then add some layers to look professional and cozy, whatever the workday brings.
…ADD A SKIRT AND BOOTS
START WITH THE SWEATER…
Photographs by Jeffrey Westbrook
THE ESSENTIAL
…SLIP IT OVER A BUTTON-UP AND JEANS
Keep it classic with pointy high-heeled boots that extend the legs and, when worn with a midi skirt, are pretty much the lewk of the season. TO BUY: Women’s Mermaid Skirt, $50; uniqlo.com. Ridley Chain-Link Boxy Bag, $83; charleskeith .com. Twisted Dash Cuff Bracelet, $138; shopsoko.com. Ambrose Plaid Boots, $170; stevemadden.com.
TO BUY: The Oversized Stroopwafel Turtleneck in ReCashmere,everlane.com.$195;
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If you’ve got plans after work, we love a wildly bright pair of cords to fun up a neutral sweater. Add an ’80s-style boxy blazer, a chunky necklace, and gilt shoes for a bit of glam. TO BUY: Wilfred Memories Blazer, $228; aritzia.com. Classic Fitted Flare, $130; bodenusa.com. Sol Chain Necklace, $150; mignonnegavigan.com. Ivory Pumps, $125; aerosoles.com.
BY FLAVIA NUNEZ
TO BUY: Oversized Poplin Shirt, $90; bananarepublic.com. Balloon Jean, $40; oldnavy.com. Potpourri Rings, $75; roxanneassoulin.com. The Waverley 2 Bag, $210; loandsons.com. Harlow Leather Sneaker, $128; thereformation.com.
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REAL SIMPLE SETTLES IT Are Top Necessary?Sheets
ETIQUETTE ISSUES / ROOMING WITH GRANDMA / MAKE THE MOST OF REGRET LUMINA/STOCKSY OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 85 LIVES
Low-stakes controversy alert! Everyone’s got an opinion, so we asked you—and some experts—for the final word.
BY LESLIE CORONA
She adds that if you opt out of the top sheet, you should launder your duvet cover or comforter as often as you would a sheet, meaning every seven days. (The insert can be washed seasonally.) But depending on when you wash yourself, you may be able to stretch that out, Johnson says. Night bathers can wash linens less frequently than morning showerers—or anyone who sweats a lot.
Bottom line: If laundry day is at least weekly, go with whatever helps you sleep at night.
ALLISON, GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN
“No top sheet! The day I said goodbye was the day I felt freedom.”
“Only because my husband insists we use one. ”
“I don’t understand what the point is. I have to wash my duvet cover weekly anyway, so why add something extra to the mix? It does nothing for me in terms of adding warmth, and it tends to just slip down and get lost. ”
@BETSY_STAHLMAN
@GUADO2
We asked on Instagram, and a whopping 74 percent werecommentersofonTeamTopSheet.
Still anti–top sheet? Well, so are a lot of Europeans.
“Top sheet. I’m not an animal.” JAKE, BOSTON
@SIMPLYBEAUTIFULEATING
Yes to the Top Sheet!
KATIE, SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA
LIVES 86 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
The Verdict
Uh-Uh, No Way!
JENNIE, SCOTTSDALE, ARIZONA
“I’m a toss-and-turn sleeper. I get too tangled up!”
If, on the cleanliness scale, you fall somewhere between neat freak and germophobe (and let’s face it, if you’re reading this magazine, you do), you should probably have a top sheet. According to Ingrid Johnson, a textile professor at Fashion Institute of Technology, you need to launder your sheets weekly to help remove body oils and dead skin cells. Without frequent cleaning, you’re upping your chances of skin irritation and even infection (though that’s rarer), says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in the dermatology department at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Oof. Dust mites thrive off skin cells in bedding. They also eat mold that can grow from sweat, saliva, midnight snacks, or wet spots left by damp hair. Those dust mites are invisible to the naked eye, but they can wreak havoc on people with allergies or asthma, says Purvi Parikh, MD, an allergist with the Allergy & Asthma Network. “Asthma attacks, sinus congestion, and itchy, watery, swollen eyes can worsen,” she says. Sounds like a literal nightmare.
@ESPHANIE3
KRISTEN, PLANO, TEXAS
“I have a collection of top sheets I use as drop sheets if we paint a room in the house. #notopsheetrequired”
“Yes, top sheet. Ain’t nobody trying to wash that damn duvet cover every week!! ”
“Top sheets aren’t a thing in Scandinavia!” says Norway native Anna Cappelen, founder of Curious Yellow Design in New York City. “I always use duvets, even in the summer. I keep the windows open or use fans if it gets too hot.” Many Scandinavians prefer simplicity, she says. “The aesthetic is all about minimalism, and this applies to everything, even unnecessary layers like top sheets.”
SAIGE, BOERNE, TEXAS
“Total top sheet fan! We don’t wash our quilt and coverlet all the time, and I like the lightness of a sheet.”
“My husband will move it all over the place, and I get tired of making the bed with it. So no top sheet. Less work! ”
“What else do you cover yourself with if it’s too warm for the quilt? Or do the monsters just chew directly into your flesh?”
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Zeize the Day
BY CATHERINE NEWMAN
Asking how you can be supportive is an excellent gesture to offer any friend who talks about a goal, as is reminding them that they’re beautiful and perfect as is. “Are there things you wish you could do that you can’t?” might also help clarify what the problem is—or whether there is one at all. This is much better than the common knee-jerk response “You’re not fat!,” which only reinforces the wrong idea that it’s bad to be big. The fatphobic culture we live in makes it common to say things like “large yet very beautiful,” as if those two descriptions were mutually exclusive. Luckily, they aren’t. We can be fat and beautiful; we can be fat and healthy. Affirm how much you enjoy your friend’s company and help her love herself as much as you love her.
LIVES 88 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
L.H. ASKS…
Illustration by Yoco Nagamiya
ABOUT CATHERINE
HAVE AN ETIQUETTE QUESTION?
The author of the novel We All Want Impossible Things (out in November), Catherine Newman gets advice from her husband and two opinionated, largely grown children in Amherst, Massachusetts.
L.A. ASKS…
I’ve asked neighbors to have their dogs relieve themselves somewhere else, but they respond negatively and seem to think picking up the solid waste is enough. How do I keep dogs and their deposits off my property yet continue to be friends with their owners?
I’m glad they pick up the poop, at least—but yes, you’re right that other people’s dogs should not be peeing in your yard. Here’s the thing, though: You’ve already tried talking to them, and you’ve gotten pushback. So you still get to fight for your pristine lawn, but you may sacrifice neighborly relations in the process. Decide if that’s worth it to you. If so, consider a cheerful sign (“We love your dogs but not their pee!”), or try talking to the neighbors when you see them walking by with their pups. “I know it’s a pain to keep your dog on a tighter leash,” you can say, “but I take a lot of pride in my grass, and the nitrogen in dog urine can damage it.” Be transparent, scientific, and friendly and see what happens.
Modern Manners Advice for Your Social Quandaries
I work hard to maintain a nice yard, and the yellow marks made by dog urine are a constant annoyance.
My best friend of 30 years is a large yet very beautiful, fun, and smart woman. Every time I see her, she makes self-deprecating comments about her weight. I become uncomfortable because I don’t know how to respond. I want to say something loving and supportive, but I can’t find the right words. She often mentions wanting to eat healthier and exercise more, but she doesn’t seem to do either of these things. Do I simply say, “Tell me how I can help and support you”?
Hover your phone’s camera here to submit your question, or send an email to modernmanners@realsimple.com.
“When I moved back in, I’d just gotten my master’s degree, and my husband and I, who had been in Atlanta, needed a place to stay,” Theresa says. “There was a separate apartment on the third floor of my parents’ house, and we asked whether we could live there while we looked for a place of our own. Then we started having babies, and it was so great to have childcare help.” Gary cheerfully admits, “We’re constantly childproofing the house! And with three little kids, there comes a point where you say, ‘The heck with it, I’m not cleaning this up.’ But it’s been so great to be around for all the kids’ milestones—the first words and first Multigenerationalsteps.” housing may sound old-fashioned—a throwback to those Waltons-esque days when the whole family would sit down for a hearty stew followed by a harmonica singalong—but it’s becoming a lifestyle trend. According
FAMILY
Illustration by Abbey Lossing
90 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022 LIVES
THERESA DERSE-NOSACEK did not expect that, at age 30, she’d be having nightly dinners with her mom and dad at the same table where she used to eat with her four siblings. And her parents, Gary and Elaine Nosacek, did not expect to spend their retirement surrounded by the toy tornadoes of three grandkids under the age of 4. But for the past four years, they’ve been living under one roof in the Nosaceks’ Victorian house in Milwaukee—happily, by all accounts.
All Together Now
With purse strings and housing markets growing ever tighter, families in multigenerational households are finding strength in numbers.
BY AMY MACLIN
crispy chicken. More family faves.
CHICKEN FOR ALL. All for
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friends wonder how they manage, “we wouldn’t have it any other way,” says Vicky, who explains it’s been a learning experience for both the older and younger generations. “My mother- and father-in-law have taught our kids, who are 9 and 12 now, so much about our culture, sharing all our family stories. And the kids can be their in-house tech support. I find them showing their grandparents how to do things on the iPad.”
“The trend was underway before the pandemic, but it only grew more popular,” Butts says, as seniors left assisted living facilities and parents needed help with younger kids home from school or day care. According to a recent Generations United survey, 7 out of 10 families currently seeking refuge together plan to continue the arrangement indefinitely. Though the Nosaceks’ situation was supposed to be temporary, they have no plans to change it. “It’s not the right time yet,” Gary says. “The housing market is even crazier now, and this works for us. It keeps me young.”
“It’s the way of the future,” says Donna Butts, executive director of Generations United, who cites a number of reasons why an estimated 66.7 million U.S. adults are now embracing this living situation— for example, it’s a response to the tight housing market, it offers the chance to pool financial resources, and it can ease the burden of eldercare and childcare.
Unsurprisingly, multigenerational householders report that space is key: 46 percent say the number of bedrooms is paramount; for 43 percent, it’s the number of bathrooms. “The ideal living space provides everyone with adequate alone time while still taking advantage of the togetherness,” says Michael Galperin, marketing director for Schumacher Homes, one of the growing number of housing companies designing specifically for multigenerational needs.
Consider Your Space
92 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022 LIVES
Human beings are meant to live in extended family groups, where we can share resources, labor, and emotional support.
Elsewhere in the world, extendedfamily households are more common. A recent Pew Research study reports that 38 percent of the global population lives in one. “My international colleagues just shake their heads when I talk about the rate in our country compared with theirs,” Butts says. “In America we’ve perpetuated this myth of independence— that you’re not an adult unless you’re out on your own. But now many families are finding they’re stronger together.”
That’s not surprising to John L. Graham, PhD, professor emeritus at the Paul Merage School of Business at the University of California, Irvine, and coauthor of All in the Family: A Practical Guide to Successful Multigenerational Living (out in an updated edition in early 2023). He says human beings are meant to live in extended family groups, where we can share resources, labor, and emotional support. “It’s what we’ve been doing for most of human history, except for the past 50 years,” he says, after the post–World War II economic boom led upwardly mobile young families to strike out for the newly developing suburbs. “What’s surprising is that we lasted so long with this nuclear family setup.”
When Mickey and Vicky Popat, co-owners of PlantOGram, a fruit-tree gift company based in Orlando, Florida, got married 17 years ago, it was a given that they’d adopt the tradition of their families’ native India: Right after their honeymoon, Mickey’s parents moved in with them. Though some of their
Of course, as anyone with a family can imagine, multigenerational living is not nonstop cohabitational bliss: In the Generations United survey, 98 percent of families reported that the arrangement was going well, but 75 percent said that yes, it’s sometimes stressful. For anyone considering the move, experts on the subject have some advice on how to make it work.
to the nonprofit Generations United, the number of Americans living in multigenerational households (usually defined as including three or more generations— i.e., kids, parents, and grandparents) has nearly quadrupled over the past decade, increasing from 7 percent in 2011 to 26 percent in 2021.
If you’re skeptical about the one-bighappy-family arrangement, so are a lot of people who haven’t tried it, Butts says. “I did a radio interview once about multigenerational households, and the host was pushing me to say, ‘It’s horrible.’ But when he opened up the phone lines, everybody who called in talked about how great their situation was.”
According to the National Association of Realtors, in 2020, 15 percent of buyers went for homes with features like separate entrances, separate kitchens, and entire in-law apartments. “They were on the rise before the pandemic, but now they’re in even more demand and are becoming a big trend in residential design,” Galperin says. Another option for those who have the property and the budget, he adds, is a casita: “It’s a small secondary house that’s usually connected to the main house with a path or covered porch. Often it has a great room and bedroom in the middle, with a kitchen, bathroom, and even laundry room around the edges. It’s space-efficient and gives the family members who live there a sense of independence.”
“Work out ahead of time who will pay for what—rent, utilities, taxes, even groceries,” Graham says. Are you splitting everything down the middle? If the adult children are footing the bulk of the expenses, grandparents may want to make a nominal financial contribution or take on responsibilities like childcare. If adult kids and parents are blending income, any other siblings need to be looped in to make sure everyone agrees that resources are being divided fairly, Graham adds. And especially if you’re purchasing property together, it’s prudent to draw up a legal family partnership contract outlining your agreement.
94 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
Establish House Rules
Are you having meals together? Who will take out the trash? How often does the cat really need to be fed? Where can Grandpa smoke his cigars? Do grandkids need to ask before they visit the grandparents’ space, or is there an open-door policy? Graham recommends regular family meetings—once a week, for instance—to make decisions, assign responsibilities, and reevaluate as needed, especially
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writer whose parents moved in to her Philadelphia home and discovered that living with two teenagers plus an 8-year-old was a bit more than they bargained for. “My parents and I love each other, but people have different child-raising styles.” Ultimately, her parents decided to move to Florida, which brings Tharps to another important point: “This way of life is not for everyone, and that’s OK. I don’t regret a minute of it. I am so glad our family had that time together.”
“The adults have to treat one another as equals,” Graham says. “That can be hard to do when you’re talking to your mom or your son, but it’s just as important as the physical stuff like separate spaces.” Mom might need to be gently reminded that her 40-year-old daughter no longer needs an 11 p.m. curfew—or unsolicited parenting advice. “It’s great to have another set of hands with your kids, but you also realize you’re being watched as a parent yourself,” says Lori Tharps, a
LIVES
at first: “When you move in together, there’s an adjustment period, and no matter how smart you are, some things may not work out and will need to be changed.” And while kindness and mutual respect should rule, you want a forum where everyone can air little frustrations before they turn into big resentments. “Every family has their share of problems,” Vicky Popat says. “But in this lifestyle, you can’t let issues fester—you have to get them out in the open. When you understand the other person’s intention, you can work through it.”
LEGO.com/adults-welcome FEEL THE WEIGHT OF THE DAY SLOWLY FADE AWAY, ONE BRICK AT A TIME. CLICK. FLOW. REPEAT. ©2022 The LEGO Group. ©SEGA. All rights reserved. SEGA is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. SEGA and SONIC THE HEDGEHOG are either registered trademarks or trademarks of SEGA CORPORATION. ©2022 Hasbro. Licensed by Hasbro. VESPA® Official Product. VESPA® is a registered trademark owned by Piaggio & C. S.p.A. and used under license by LEGO Systems A/S. ©2022, The Museum of Modern Art. The Museum of Modern Art, MoMA, and related logos are Trademarks of The Museum of Modern Art.
BY GAIL CORNWALL
GOT REGRETS? Maybe that’s OK! Learn how to turn bad feelings about your past into powerful change for your future.
THE HELPFUL MIND
Just about everyone has some regrets, says Daniel H. Pink, author of The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward. He found that only 1 percent of Americans are never beset by should-haves and could-haves. In fact, he says, we’re “far more likely to experience regret than we are to floss our teeth.” Pink surveyed people about their regrets, and they sent back confessions about romance, friendships, finances, and health. The most significant regrets fall into four categories, he determined. My wedding day wistfulness is a connection regret, a failure to reach out to someone you love—Pink says that’s the most common kind. The others are boldness regrets (“If only I’d taken that chance”), foundation regrets (“If only I’d done the work”), and moral regrets (“If only I’d done the right thing”). That last one, Pink says, is the least common type but the most complex and painful, because we violated our values.
Illustration by Shout OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 97 LIVES
I JUST WANTED a calm wedding day. I’d craved peaceful family relations since I was 12, when one minute my dad’s friend was my dad’s friend, and the next he was married to my mom and we were moving away from St. Louis with him. Over the years, I called my two fathers “Missouri Dad” and “California Dad,” so as not to demote either with “biological” or “step.” But there was still parental tension when I got married at 28. When Missouri Dad said that, instead of coming to the ceremony, maybe he should host a separate reception later, I took the easy out. I had a mellow wedding day, but I didn’t have both dads at my side, and it weighed on my mind for years.
Nail Down the “Why”
Chen suggests offering yourself the kindness you’d give a friend. Embrace the mantra “Everyone makes mistakes,” and remind yourself that botching one thing doesn’t define you. Each time a regret pops up, show yourself compassion, and over time, you’ll learn to take the sting out of those memories.
Ask Yourself: Is It Really Regret?
I began asking friends and acquaintances what they wish they’d done differently. Sophia, 34, has boldness and foundation regrets that she sums up as “wrong school, wrong major.” She made college applications an afterthought, turned down a gap year, and wound up at a small Methodist school where her politics stood out and class options were limited. Majoring in Spanish because she couldn’t decide on anything else, she was later hounded by thoughts of her peers who had majored in environmental science and were making a difference in the world. When we ruminate about our perceived lost opportunities, those pangs of regret are often based on an “imagined version of ourselves,” says Shai Davidai, PhD, an assistant professor at Columbia Business School. We’re most likely to compare ourselves only with those who are flourishing. For example, shortly after my wedding, I left the legal profession. When I wonder what might have been, I don’t think about my law school classmates who hate their jobs. I look at Mehrsa, a law professor who appears on CNBC, or Dom, who went in-house for a highprofile company and now lives the beachside life I coveted as a tween obsessed with Beverly Hills, 90210 We may also indulge in sky’s-the-limit thinking: “I could have made equity partner!” “I could have worked for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund!” Comparing our one life with the aggregate of all other opportunities is bound to leave us feeling inadequate.
Admit It
Mona Lisa smile, in our backyard. And I like who I am now, the person born from that experience—someone who is sensitive to my family’s feelings and doesn’t sweat ticket prices or multiple connections to get to Missouri, forsaking calm to have my dad at my side. Regrets can cause anxiety and depression—but you can also make them a source for good. Here’s how.
Each time a regret pops up, show yourself compassion, and over time, you’ll learn to take the sting out of those memories. Practice Self-Compassion
Why do you regret canceling that trip to Japan? Do you wish you were more adventurous? It’s key to figure out what you believe is the lost opportunity, Davidai says.
Reframe It
I’m not sorry I left law, and seeing my classmates’ success on Instagram doesn’t have me running to reactivate my bar membership. That’s because what I feel isn’t regret but envy— common in this age of social media, a hotbed of opportunities for comparison, Davidai says. If Instagram leaves a sour taste in your mouth, ditch it (or unfollow that one person with the hot spouse and Sugar Rush birthday cakes). You won’t regret it.
Look Forward
These days, I’ve cultivated some perspective on my wedding day. I wish Missouri Dad had been there, but I’ve found compassion for the harried young woman I was then, juggling court briefs and seating charts. Without the St. Louis reception, I wouldn’t have the photo of my sister, with her
You can’t alter the past, but you can take steps to bring your life closer to your “if only,” Davidai says. If you regret cheating on an old flame, commit to honesty going forward. Sophia wished she’d been braver and more proactive—so she moved to a coliving community in Costa Rica, where she’s helped develop a composting system. You don’t have to make a big leap. If you haven’t experienced enough of the world, start with that Burmese restaurant that just opened.
An “at least” statement can help you find the positive. Sophia thought about the people she met along the way—at least she has them! Another perspective shifter is self-distancing: Consult with the you of 10 years from now, Pink says. You may realize you’ve been blaming yourself as a way to feel in control of the uncontrollable. That can be as benign as thinking the team lost because you forgot your lucky underwear or as corrosive as believing a loved one would still be alive if you’d done something differently.
Try to simply “accept your action or inaction,” says Serena Chen, PhD, chair of the psychology department at the University of California, Berkeley. Put your feelings into words, unloading to a friend or in a journal. Language turns emotions into thoughts, Pink says, which are easier to analyze.
98 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022 LIVES
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100 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
TO BUY: Valspar Paint in Du Jour 7002-6, from $25 per gallon; lowes.com. Memphis Chairs, $3,895 each, and Asa Pillow (on right-hand chair), $195; jaysonhome.com. Chandler Olive Pillow Cover, $85; xasmininteriors.com. Nilo Hook Pillow, $69; jungalow.com. Woven Border Throw with Tassels, $89; mondialelife.com. Woven Wood Shades in Chestnut, from $350; everhem.com. Beckett 5-High Storage Bookshelf Sable, $1,199; crateandbarrel.com. Deco Screen in Yellow Martinique Encore by CW Stockwell, $575; theinside.com. Carved Eye Stool (left), $895, and Senofo Carved Stool, $695; jaysonhome.com. Hikari 6 Light Chandelier, $702, and Liwa Table Lamp (on left-hand stool), $324; mitzi.com. Botanical Storm by Carrie Moradi, $209; minted.com. Harwich Natural Woven Jute Rug, $1,844 (8 by 10 ft.); annieselke.com. Parkday wood flooring, from $7.50 per sq. ft.; stugastudio.com. On bookshelf: Liaodong Sea Blue Pot, $225, Hongwu Sea Blue Pot, $110, and Small Zabiya Blue Decorative Vase, $50; oka.com/us. Roshani Table Lamp, $324; mitzi.com. Deconstructed Snake, $350, Ovis Bowl, $235, and Coffered Inlay Tray, from $250; jaysonhome.com.
OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 101
PHOTOGRAPHS BY CHRISTOPHER TESTANI
Each year, some of our favorite designers bring their signature styles to the REAL SIMPLE Home. For 2022, we turned a house in the Rosemary Beach community in Inlet Beach, Florida, into the epitome of coastal cool.
Home, Sweet Home
BY LESLIE CORONA AND ERICA FINAMORE
Harwich Natural Woven Jute Rug, $1,844 (8 by 10 ft.); annieselke.com. Parkday wood flooring, from $7.50 per sq. ft.; stugastudio.com.
Melrose 2 Piece Sectional in Green Apple, $3,698; apt2b.com. Pillows, from left: Misha Pillow, $195, and Piece Blue Pillow, $475; jaysonhome.com. Maisey Pillow Cover, $81; xasmininteriors.com. Chi Chi Pom Pom Hook Pillow, $55; jungalow.com. Lola Pillow, $225; jaysonhome.com. Phyllis Pillow Cover, $60; xasmininteriors.com. Roan Pillow, $250; jaysonhome.com.
TO BUY: Valspar Paint in Du Jour 7002-6, from $25 per gallon; lowes.com.
Hikari 6 Light Chandelier, $702, and Sang Floor Lamp, $422; mitzi.com.
Mustard Boucle Mushroom Ottoman, $375; 1stdibs.com. Tom Natural Three-Legged Coffee Table by Leanne Ford, $1,699; crateandbarrel.com. Coffered Inlay Tray, from $250; jaysonhome.com. Woven Wood Shades in Chestnut, from $350; everhem.com. The Circle Married the Line (left), from $99, and When the Morning Comes, from $99; shop.oldbrandnew.com.
In the living room, the story is about mixing color, pattern, scale, and texture. Dabito paired chunky pieces of furniture (the sofa, the fat-leg coffee table) with delicate sculptural lamps and simple sisal shades. All the different textures—the sofa’s weave, the jute rug, that nubby mushroom ottoman—look cozy and cool.
Here,
land
“I’m all about mixing it up, especially with color. You don’t want too much of the same wood tone or too many of the same blues. You want a variety of materials and elements, but there has to be balance.”
(Above) Circula White Dining Table, $2,095; bludot.com. Corsica Outdoor Dining Chairs, $299 each; crateandbarrel.com. Koda 16 Pizza Oven, $599; ooni.com. Warwick Outdoor Sconce, $398; serenaandlily.com. (Right) Edgewater Sofa, $3,998, Perennials Gingham Pillow Covers, $148 each, and Warwick Outdoor Sconce, $398; serenaandlily.com. Yamina Indoor/Outdoor Rug, $298 (5 ft., 3 in. by 7 ft.); luluandgeorgia.com. Concrete Fluted Sage Planter; potterybarn.com for similar.
TOSS IT INTO THE BLENDER
Dabito knows that the best way to make a traditional print feel fresh is to knock it into another. gingham pillows on a striped seat cushion for a funky mashup.
Interior designer Dabito, power clasher and color savant, wanted his spaces to encourage relaxing and socializing.
TO BUY:
30AFLORABELLAFORROGERSMARJABYFLORALSDABITO;OFCOURTESYHEADSHOT OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 103
PATTERN PLAY
Dabito @dabito
Living Room & Back Porch
Kitchen
Oak Floating Shelves, from $208; semihandmade.com. Vario
Tray,
104 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
Dinner Plates in Blue, $8 each, and Mercer Dinner Plates
Crane Dance by Nina Leth, $122; minted.com. Food52 Marble
Gina Gutierrez @ginarachelledesign $188; mitzi.com. Storage Jars; storiahome.com for and penguinrandomhouse.com. Wren Matte in White, $6 each; crateandbarrel.com. Mortar Pestle, $60, and CrushGrind Williams Sonoma Stainless Steel Leather $149; schoolhouse.com.
info. Books (this page and opposite); chroniclebooks.com
Glass
“I like to think of the big picture with design. Will you enjoy washing those dishes? Will everything have its place? There’s a sense of ease in the space. When it’s beautiful and you have the function down, it’ll make you smile as you gather with friends and family.” TO BUY: San Gabriel Backsplash, from $16 per sq. ft.; fireclaytile.com. Café Smart Dual-Fuel Commercial-Style 6-Burner Range, $8,399, Commercial Hood, $1,599, and (opposite page) Energy Star Smart Counter-Depth French-Door Refrigerator, $3,799, Smart Stainless Steel Interior Dishwasher, $1,899, and Built-In Microwave/Convection Oven, $2,199 (all in matte white with brushed bronze hardware); cafeappliances.com for info. Lupe 1 Light Wall Sconce in Aged Brass,
Stockholm Salt & Pepper Grinders, from $45; food52.com.
TO BUY: Valspar Paint in Bistro White 7006-4 (cabinets), Du Jour 7002-6 (walls), and Pitch Cobalt 5010-2 (windows and island), from $25 per gallon; lowes.com. Lambert Pendant in Aged Brass, $878; hvlgroup.com. Crosstown 18 Gauge Workstation Undermount Sink in Stainless Steel with Explore Single Hole Kitchen Faucet and Pull-Down Spray with Forward Only Lever Handle in Lustrous Steel, $1,473, and Soap Dispenser (LK330LS) in Lustrous Steel, $122; elkay.com. Cipullo Round Cabinet Knobs, from $17; signaturehardware.com. Cobb Counter Stools with Back, $409 each; rejuvenation.com. Bodum Pour Over Coffee Maker, $22; target .com. Pedra Artisan Mugs, $15 each, Tour Stemless Red Wine Glasses, $12 each, Billie Double Old-Fashioned Glasses in Grey, $11 each, Leanne Ford Stevey Black Pitcher, $50, Black Servers, $30, and Leanne Ford Yuma Fringed Natural Jute Rug, $229; crateandbarrel.com. Parkday wood flooring, from $7.50 per sq. ft.; stugastudio.com.
Serve Utensils, $80; williams-sonoma.com. Danish Oak +
&
Designer Gina Gutierrez leaned into beachy blues and whites but brought in soft sage tile and surprising fixtures, keeping the room miles from nautical-cliché land.
There are plenty of lower cabinets, so Gina removed some of the upper ones to lighten up the space. On floating shelves, you can display the things you love.
HIGH NOTE
OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 105
A marble table can lean bougie, but mix-andmatch seating makes the room less uptight. Here, black Windsor chairs look great with beechwood armchairs. Who knew?
PICK A CHAIR
Dining Room
Pulling from her kitchen design, Gina used the same blue Valspar paint and light wood accents for a breezy flow. But she added sculpted black details for a slightly more formal feel.
TO BUY: Valspar Paint in Du Jour 7002-6 (walls) and Pitch Cobalt 5010-2 (door and railing), from $25 per gallon; lowes.com. Faroe Dining Table, $2,595, and JH Lume Taper Candles, $16; jaysonhome .com. Hammond Candlelight Taper Holders, from $24; westelm.com. Amelia Vase Wide, $395; sohohome.com. Windsor Black Stain Chairs, $185 each; unisonhome.com. Lyell Upholstered Dining Chairs, $549 each; potterybarn.com. Harlem Chandelier in Old Bronze, $832; hvlgroup.com. Float by Alicia Abla (left), $316, and Yucatan III by Lindsay Ferraris, $320; minted.com. Wall Mount Champagne Bottle Holders; etsy.com for similar. Elkay ezH2O Liv Filtered Water Dispenser, $2,661; elkay.com. Aster Sky Wool Micro Hooked Rug, $1,748 (8 by 10 ft.); annieselke.com. Parkday wood flooring, from $7.50 per sq. ft.; stugastudio.com. (Below) American Standard AccuLink Platinum 1050 Control Smart Thermostat; americanstandardair.com for info. EDITHOMETHEOFCOURTESYHEADSHOTSPAGE:OPPOSITEGUTIERREZ.GINAOFCOURTESYHEADSHOTSPREAD:PREVIOUS 106 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
BridgersEmily ShreveShaina Burrell OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 107
The Home Edit @thehomeedit
space; you don’t get both. Live by the 80/20 rule: Keep your home no more than 80 percent full and leave at least 20 percent for breathing room.”
The Home Edit team may be known for color-coding, but their real tricks are creating zones and keeping everything visible and accessible.
Alli
TO BUY: (Above) Elfa Classic White 2" Basic Shelving Unit, from $367.50, The Home Edit by iDesign All-Purpose Deep Bins with Divider, $25 each, Bin Organizers, from $8, Bin Clips, $10 for 3, and Large Whitewash Rattan Storage Cubes, $43 each; containerstore.com. Glad ForceFlexPlus Cherry Blossom 13-Gallon Trash Bag, and Glad ForceFlex Plus Drawstring Lemon Fresh Bleach Odor Shield with Clorox 13-Gallon Trash Bag; glad.com for info. (Right) The Home Edit by iDesign Produce Bins, $22 each, Large Divided Fridge Bins, $158.50 for 8, Large Berry Bins, $23 each, Narrow Fridge Bins, $122.50 for 8, Narrow Drawers, $22 each, Bin Organizers, from $8, Narrow Pantry Bins, $15 each, and Stacking Pantry Bins, $72 for 4; containerstore.com. Eggland’s Best Classic White Eggs; at grocery stores.
Labeling tip: Fridge items have a high turnover rate, so use broad categories. Try “veggies” andnot“condiments,”“cucumbers”and“mayo.”
item
FOOD THOUGHTFOR
Storage
“You get the or the
TONE ON TONE
Hello, retro! Thanks to the 1960s color scheme, the plush textures, and a light that resembles a disco ball, visitors to designer
Erin painted the doors two shades of pink to play up theirdetailsarchitecturalandaddextracolor.
Drawstring Trash Bags in Cherry Blossom; glad.com for info. Parkday wood flooring, from $7.50 per sq. ft.; stugastudio.com.
108 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
Lotta Bed in Royale Apple, $2,651 (queen); joybird.com. Sky Velvet Pillow Cases, from $76; pepper-home.com. Amber Stripe Lumbar Pillow, $265; thevintagerugshop .com. Linen Duvet Cover Set in Terra, $409 (queen), and Linen Sheet Set in Bone, $209 (queen); parachutehome.com. Tropical Toucan I and Tropical Toucan II by Stefanie Lane, $209 each, and Birthday Bouquet II by Cyrille Gulassa (near door), $95; minted.com. Everhem Woven Wood Shades in Seashell, from $350; everhem.com. Irregular Checkerboard Rug in Ochre, $1,298 (9 by 6 ft.); luluandgeorgia.com. Glad Small Kitchen
Too much pink and peach can be cloying, so Erin threw in an avocado-green bed— a little acid to break up all the pastels.
Erin Wheeler’s guest bedroom will wake up feeling funky and fresh.
Guest Suite
“I wanted this to be a soothing retreat with softer shades. It’s coastal with a bohemian influence.”
TO BUY: Valspar Paint in Peach Champagne 2006-4C (walls) and Coral Reef 2004-4A and Sweet Marmalade 2003-6B (closet doors), from $25 per gallon; lowes.com. Capiz Honeycomb Pendant, $898, and Blake Raffia 1-Drawer Nightstand, $1,298; serenaandlily.com.
SWEETSAVORYAND
Erin Wheeler @sunnycirclestudio
CONNECTIONCOLOR
“Take advantage of color and pattern in the small pockets of your house to make them more delightful. And of course, add storage and function when possible. The guest room has no extra seating, so I created a reading nook in this little area.”
This awkwardly shaped spot connecting three floors and bridging two rooms gets some TLC from REAL SIMPLE senior home editor Leslie Corona, with leafy wallpaper, a splash of paint, and thoughtful details.
Leslie Corona @leslie_corona_
Second-Floor Landing
TO BUY: (Above) Lush Palms Custom Color Wallpaper, $4.50 per sq. ft.; lovevsdesign .com. Threshold Warwick 2 Door Cabinet, $230; target.com. Tylor Vintage Moroccan Rug; revivalrugs.com for similar. Monuments 1 by Jennifer Daily, $246; minted.com. Berkeley Ivory Table Lamp, $129; crateandbarrel.com. (Right) Valspar Paint in Green Trellis 5006-3C, from $25 per gallon; lowes.com. The 25 Bubble Chandelier, from $950; thelightfactory.net. Monuments 2 by Jennifer Daily, $300; minted.com. Gunnison Stone Chair, $1,625; unisonhome.com. Uthingo Lagoon Pillow Cover, $246, and Inyanga Blush Pillow Cover, $240; charliesprout.com. Savafieh Laverne Floor Lamp, from $182; overstock.com. Clemente Wall Sconce, $699; lumens.com. Parkday wood flooring, from $7.50 per sq. ft.; stugastudio.com.
Vibrant green paint ties into the leafy wallpaper across the landing shadesharmonizingwhilewithintherestofthehome.
YAGUALKENNETHOFCOURTESYWHEELER;ERINOFCOURTESYHEADSHOTS: OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 109
The 1980s-style palm-leaf peel-andstick wallpaper (inspired by TheGolden Girls, obvi) jazzes up this nook under the stairs.
GOOD ON PAPER
Primary Suite
Clara Jung @bannerdayinteriors
SCOTTSUZANNAOFCOURTESYHEADSHOTGOWEN.ZOËBYSTYLINGGLENN;LAUREYBYPHOTOGRAPHLEFT:TOP 110
A showstopping landscape mural inspires a palette of sky blue, earthy greens, and wood tones in Clara Jung’s design, a calming ode to the natural world.
“The aesthetic of the Rosemary Beach community is more European, so I designed a bedroom that nods to the formal (the mural) but made sure there was still warmth.”
A MADEMISMATCHINHEAVEN
S|H Ochre Antique Linen Lumbar Pillow, from $287; stofferhome.com. Carter Nightstand, $2,400; crofthouse.com. Brooks Table Lamp, $669; circalighting.com. Safavieh Sylva Oval Bench in Slate Blue, from $364; overstock.com. Network Black Woven Wool Rug, $1,814 (8 by 10 ft.); annieselke.com. Parkday wood flooring, from $7.50 per sq. ft.; stugastudio.com. (Opposite page, console area) Mercury Row Crepeau Console Table; wayfair.com for similar. Arlo Light, $880; katyskelton.com. Quiet Now by Kimberly Young, $552; minted.com. Books; chroniclebooks.com. (Closet) Valspar Paint in Flora 5004-2C, from $25 per gallon; lowes.com. Linen Premium Non-Slip Velvet Suit Hangers, $35 for 40, White Montauk Rectangular Storage Bins, $30 each, Cambridge Linen Storage Boxes, $35 each, and Cambridge Linen DropFront Shoe Boxes, $18 each; containerstore .com. (Bathroom) Valspar Paint in Crème Fraîche CI 200, from $25 per gallon; lowes.com. Hastings Small Pendant, $1,269; circalighting .com. Uttermost Andi Gold Rounded Edge Mirror, $300; lampsplus.com. Simple Waffle Hand Towel, $35; hawkinsnewyork.com. Trinsic Towel Ring, $69, and Trinsic Two Handle Widespread Bathroom Faucet, $546; deltafaucet.com for stores. 30" Elmdale Vanity, from $1,279; signaturehardware.com. Bio-Oil Skincare Oil; findbio-oil.com. Ultra Healing Lotion; curel.com.
Proof that design doesn’t have to be symmetrical: Clara used a desk here in place of a nightstand to maximize space and add function.
TO BUY: (This page) Valspar Paint in Crème Fraîche CI 200, from $25 per gallon; lowes.com. Imaginarium–Mystic Wall Mural, $1,148 (12 by 9 ft.); fineanddandycompany.com. Amalfi Woven Bed, $2,395 (king); williams-sonoma .com. Lucca Velvet Stitched Quilted Bedding, $349 (king); ballarddesigns.com. 300 Thread Count Organic Percale Duvet Cover, $298 (king), Organic Crinkled Percale Sheet Set, $258, Organic Crinkled Percale Pillow Covers, $38 for 2, Organic Shredded Latex Pillow, $168 each, and Three Seasons Down Duvet Insert, $698; coyuchi.com. Swashes in Copper, $109 per yard (custom pillows); philomelasweb.com.
BRIGHT AND BLUE Kelly chose swivel chairs instead of a sofa for this tight spot. Because the chairs face each other, the area feels communal.
Loft & Bunk Room
A patterned ottoman is a surface for board games and offers storage for throws or pillows.
Designer Kelly Finley splashed happy-hued furniture and decor throughout, taking cues from bold statement art from Minted. The result: a fun and fabulous kids’ hangout area.
Cat’s Paw Pastel Micro Hooked Wool Rug, $848 (5 by 8 ft.); annieselke.com. Parkday wood flooring, from $7.50 per sq. ft.; stugastudio.com. Elkay ezH2O Liv Filtered Water Dispenser, $2,661; elkay.com.
TO BUY: (Left) Valspar Paint in Du Jour 7002-6, from $25 per gallon; lowes.com. Morpho Navy Swivel Armchairs, $350 each; target.com. Skyline Ottoman in Ibiza Multi Fabric, $625; wayfair.com. Kenitra Indigo Hand Knotted Wool Rug, $2,678 (8 by 10 ft.); annieselke.com. Silicus Pink Side Table, $149; article.com. (Below) Spiced Auburn Wood and Brass Inlay Dustin Storage Cabinet, $600; worldmarket.com. Oro Gold Outdoor Dining Chair, $329; cb2.com. Outlook by Jen Florentine, $596; minted.com. Coyote Table Lamp, $1,138; lumens.com.
112 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
PHOTOGRAPHYJEANNEHILLARYOFCOURTESYHEADSHOT OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 113
Carpet tiles are ideal for areas that can’t fit standard-size rugs or runners. Plus, if there’s a stain, you can remove one square to clean or replace it.
GROUND SHIFTING
Kelly Finley @joystreetdesign
NO WASTED SPACE
TO BUY: (Above) Valspar Paint in Fresh Basin 5003-7C (beds), Du Jour 7002-6 (walls), and Cool Sheets CI190 (ceiling), from $25 per gallon; lowes.com. Emtek Freestone Bar Cabinet Pulls, $14 each; build.com. Bubble Tangerine Matelassé Coverlet, $158 each (twin), and Bubble White Matesse Shams, $74 each; annieselke.com. Skyline 22" x 22" Pillows in Medallion Multi Fabric, $160 each; wayfair.com. Rib Velvet Area Rug, $16 per tile; flor.com. Parkday flooring, from $7.50 per sq. ft.; stugastudio.com. (Left) Morgan Cognac Pleated Ottomans, $149 each; tovfurniture.com. Bamboo Navy Lacquer Serving Tray, $99; markandgraham.com.
Low-sloped ceilings mean bunk beds are out. To create ample sleepover spots, Kelly laid beds end to end. The custom structure includes storage and a desk, making use of every available inch.
“Because this area was essentially a storage closet, the square footage and head height were limited. The fun colors of the beds and accessories brighten everything up to combat the lack of natural light. It’s a small but mighty room.”
Key Contributors & Partners
SignatureSerenaSemihandmadeSchoolhouseSafaviehRoyalRoomRevivalRejuvenationPotteryPepperParachuteOldOKAMondialeMPLMitziMecoxMarkLumens&GrahamHomeRenovationsLifestyleBrandNewHomeBarn&BoardDesigns&LilyHardware
The Vintage Rug Shop
Rosemary Beach Foundation
Habitat for Humanity’s mission is to put God’s love into action by bringing people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Walton County Habitat celebrates more than 25 years of serving the local community with the support of local donors. waltoncountyhabitat.org
FineEverhem&Dandy Co.
Hawkins New York
Rosemary Beach Foundation was established in 2006 to bring the community together in the spirit of giving. Throughout the year, the Foundation hosts charitable events, tournaments, festivals and exhibitions. More than 4,000 students (Kindergarten-12th grade) and teachers in 20 Walton County schools participate in the Foundation’s educational arts initiative. The Foundation continues its strong commitment to provide support to those in need. In its 16-year history, over $1 million has been donated to local organizations, schools, hurricane recovery and COVID relief efforts.
Seashore Tile is a family-owned and operated kitchen and bathroom remodeling company with more than a decade of experience. We take great pride in providing high-quality service. Home is where the heart is, and that is why we take great care in our work. At Seashore Tile our work is timely, professional, and guaranteed. seashoretile.com
The Light Factory
EtsyEmtekDometicDeltaCroftCrateCoyuchiConnectedCircaChurchChronicleCharlieCB2CaféBluBallardArticleApt2BAnnie1stDibsSelkeDesignsDotSproutBooksStreetDesignsLightingGoods&BarrelHouseFaucet
KEY CONTRIBUTORS
The Inside by Havenly
XasminWorldWilliamsWestWayfairUrbanUnisonTOVOutfittersElmSonomaMarketInteriors
Habitatrosemarybeachfoundation.orgforHumanityofWalton County, FL, Inc.
CHARITY
FrenchFood52FLORDry Goods
Soho TheTargetStugaStoffSparkHomeModernerHomeStudioContainer Store
JaysonIkea Home Jenni LuluLoveLightologyLampsKirkland’sKatyJungalowJoybirdJonathanKayneAdlerSkeltonPlusvsDesignandGeorgia
Seashore Tile LLC
PROMOTION
Skyline Furniture
Hudson Valley Lighting
PROJECT TEAM
Fireclay Tile
CONTRACTOR
REAL SIMPLE HOME
American Standard® Heating and Air Conditioning is a brand of best-in-class residential HVAC solutions that set a higher standard for quality and efficient, indoor comfort.
ELKAY ®
Ovens · Tools · Ingredients · Know-How
PROMOTION
CURÉL ® ULTRA HEALING ® LOTION
EGGLAND’S BEST
Discover the power of Bio-Oil for scars, stretch marks, dry skin, and so much more. findbio-oil.com
For over 100 years, Elkay® has been making innovative plumbing products and providing exceptional customer care. We take pride in offering products that make life easier, inspire change, and leave the world a better place. elkay.com
Curél® lotion, with Advanced Ceramide Complex, helps repair extra-dry skin and restore skin’s ceramide levels without leaving a greasy residue. Packaging may vary. curel.com
THE GLAD PRODUCTS COMPANY
Sponsors
REAL SIMPLE HOME
Eggland’s Best eggs have more of the delicious, farm-fresh taste with superior nutrition that you and your family love – any way you eat them! egglandsbest.com
Glad® ForceFlexPlus Cherry Blossom bags have a long-lasting Cherry Blossom scent with superior strength* and a bold pop of pink that brightens up any kitchen or space.
*Compared to a standard 13-gallon Glad kitchen bag. glad.com
Design marketplace Minted is committed to bringing you the very best premium goods freshly sourced by a talented community of independent artists around the globe.
Ooni’s multi-fuel Karu 16 pizza oven brings the most versatile Ooni outdoor cooking experience and advanced technology to your pizza party. ooni.com
VALSPAR ®
AMERICAN STANDARD ® HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING
Every project matters. Valspar’s here to help every step of the way to make your paint or stain project a success. valspar.com
minted.com
americanstandardair.com
BIO-OIL ® SKINCARE
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Photographs
LemonadeFriedChicken
Styling
Who’s up for a cookbook club? Rally your food-loving friends, pick a book, and divvy up courses. Then get cooking and gather for a party that’s part potluck, part klatch, and all delicious fun. READ IT & EAT
Prop
By JENNA HELWIG by HEAMI LEE
Food by CHELSEA ZIMMER Styling by CLAIRE SPOLLEN
OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 117
Sesame-Crusted Tofu with Spicy Dipping Sauce
HEAT ghee in a shallow sauté pan over high. Gently drop in mustard seeds; the spices should make a popping and sizzling sound. Immedi ately add onion and finely chopped cauliflower greens. Reduce heat to medium-high and cook, stirring often, until onion is translucent or just lightly browned, 8 to 10 minutes.
PUNJABI CAULIFLOWER ACTIVE TIME 25 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 40 MINUTES SERVES 4
1 cup minced white onion
An acclaimed chef in Houston, Anita Jaisinghani dives deep into the world of Indian cooking in her book,gorgeous MASALA. She harnesses the power of spices to create familycauliflowerrecipeflavor,mind-blowingasinthisforsucculentthatyourwillgobbleup.
1 medium cauliflower, with leaves
11/2 tsp. sea salt
2 Tbsp. grated fresh ginger (unpeeled)
1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
Chopped fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
CUT entire cauliflower, including stem, into 2-inch florets and pieces. Very finely chop green leaves and stems and set aside. (The only inedi ble part of the cauliflower is the core; discard that.)
1/3 cup ghee or olive oil
1 tsp. garam masala
BOOKTHEFROM SPICESOFLANDTHEINDIA,FROMRECIPESMASALA: PHOTOGRAPHYJAISINGHANI.ANITABY2022©COPYRIGHTTEXTJAISINGHANI.ANITABY LLCHOUSERANDOMPENGUINOFDIVISIONAHOUSE,RANDOMOFIMPRINTANPRESS,SPEEDTENBYPUBLISHEDAUTRY.JOHNNYBY2022©COPYRIGHT 118 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
1 tsp. minced garlic
1 tsp. black mustard seeds
Punjabi Cauliflower
STIR in garlic, cauliflower florets, turmeric, and salt. Increase heat to high and cook, stirring occasionally, until cauliflower sweats and then begins to take on some color, 7 to 8 minutes.
1/2 tsp. ground turmeric
SPRINKLE garam masala on top, turn off heat, and let rest, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Gently mix cauliflower, garnish with cilantro, and serve.
STIR in chili powder, tomatoes, and ginger and bring to a simmer over medium-high. Reduce heat to low; cover and cook until cauliflower is fork-tender and cooked through, 5 to 7 minutes.
1 tsp. red chili powder
SavoryBaked Feta
HAM & PIZZAPOTATO
Ranch dressing, crushed red pepper, freshly grated Parmesan, and chopped flat-leaf parsley, for topping
120 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
TOP with a drizzle of dressing, crushed red pepper, loads of Parm, and parsley, then cut into big squares.
ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES
12 oz. Yukon Gold potatoes (about 4 potatoes), cut into 1/8-in. slices
BAKE until crust is golden and cheese is brown in parts, 25 to 30 minutes. (If you’d like a little more color on the potatoes, stick the pizza under the broiler for a few minutes, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.)
Freshly ground black pepper
TOTAL TIME 55 MINUTES SERVES 4
3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided, plus more for brushing 2 lb. refrigerated pizza dough, at room temperature
PREHEAT oven to 450°F. Coat a rimmed half-sheet pan with 2 table spoons oil. Add dough and press it all the way to edges of pan. (If the dough starts to fight you as you press it, leave it to sit for 10 to 15 minutes so the gluten can relax, then go at it again.) Brush top with a thin, even layer of oil. Scatter on garlic, shallot, mozzarella, ham, and spinach. (Scat ter the cheese all the way to the edges so you get some crispy bits!)
Kosher salt
TOSS potatoes with remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a large bowl. Arrange in an even layer on pizza, doing your best to avoid overlapping them. Sprinkle with a good pinch of salt and lots of pepper.
In HOME IS WHERE THE EGGS ARE, Food Network star Molly Yeh gives us a window into her life as a mom on a Minnesota farm. She draws on flavors from her Chinese and Jewish heritage and from Midwestern classics, like this ode to meat and potatoes…in pizza form.
Ham & Potato Pizza
2 large cloves garlic, thinly sliced 1 medium shallot, thinly sliced 12 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, roughly torn 6 oz. thick-cut ham, chopped 2 handfuls baby spinach
TOTAL TIME 14 HOURS, 55 MINUTES MAKES 12 PIECES
For the brine:
REMOVE chicken from oil and set on paper towels to dry. Serve hot.
1/2 green bell pepper, cored, seeded, and sliced into 1/4-in. rounds
3 or 4 fresh thyme sprigs, divided (optional)
PLACE skillet in oven. If using a baking dish, set it on a large baking sheet (this makes it easier to handle) and place in oven. Bake until cheese soft ens and gets a bit of color, 25 to 30 minutes. (If you’d like a little more color, run it under the broiler for 1 or 2 minutes, watching very carefully to make sure cheese doesn’t burn.) Garnish with mint, if using. Serve with crostini or pita chips.
BAKEDSAVORYFETA
ARRANGE onion, bell pepper, tomatoes, and olives in a 6-to-8-inch ovenproof, broiler-safe skillet or baking dish. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon oregano and, if using, a big pinch of crushed red pepper and 2 thyme sprigs. Drizzle with about 2 table spoons oil.
Fry chicken until cooked through and crispy, or until a meat thermometer inserted in thickest part registers 165°F, 10 to 12 minutes. If oil tem perature drops below 325°F, increase heat or fry fewer pieces at a time.
ACTIVE TIME 55 MINUTES
FILL a deep fryer or sauté pan with oil and heat to 350°F. Layer paper towels on a rack or baking sheet.
CAREFULLY add chicken to oil, cooking in batches if needed to avoid crowding the fryer. (You should be able to fit about 4 pieces at a time without dropping the temperature.)
LEMONADE FRIED CHICKEN
For the breading: 4 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup fine yellow cornmeal 2 Tbsp. baking powder 4 to 6 cups vegetable or corn oil
5 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided, plus more for brushing 1 8-oz. block feta cheese (preferably packed in brine)
11/2 cups Louisiana-style hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or Crystal), divided 1/2 cup garlic powder 1/2 cup onion powder 1/2 cup kosher salt 1/4 cup ground cumin 1/4 cup granulated sugar 6 chicken drumsticks 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs 1 cup whole buttermilk
Chef bookScott’sChriscookHOMAGE is just that— a tasty tribute to his ancestors, including his ina“AmishgrewDutchmother,great-great-greatenslavedgrand-andthePennsylvaniaregionnearwhereheup.Heblendsthemintosoulfood”andaddschef-ytouchfromhisyearsrestaurantkitchens.
Fresh mint leaves, for garnish Crostini(optional)or pita chips, for serving
MAKE THE BREADING: Combine flour, cornmeal, and baking powder in a baking dish. Remove chicken from buttermilk and set on a wire rack to let excess drip off. Dredge chicken in dry mix.
6 kalamata olives, pitted and halved
ACTIVE TIME 15 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 40 MINUTES SERVES 6
2 tsp. dried oregano, divided 21/2 tsp. crushed red pepper, divided (optional)
PLACE feta on top; season with remaining 1 teaspoon oregano and, if using, remaining crushed red pepper and thyme. Drizzle 2 or 3 tablespoons oil on top and brush sides of feta with more oil.
Suzycookbook,herblogKaradsheh’sanddebut MEDITERRANEANTHEDISH , celebrate the andcolorfulhealthy,foodsofhernativeEgyptitsneighbors.Thiseasy-prepappetizercapturesallthesunnyflavorsherfansdevour.
1 cup fresh lemon juice (from 6 lemons)
FROMPIZZAPOTATOANDHAM AREEGGSTHEWHEREISHOME BOOKTHEFROMFETABAKEDSAVORYPUBLISHERS.HARPERCOLLINSOFIMPRINTANMORROW,WILLIAMOFPERMISSIONBYREPRINTEDYEH.REBECCAMOLLYBY2022©COPYRIGHTYEH.MOLLYBY REPEATONMAKEYOU’LLRECIPESHEALTHYANDBOLD120DISH:MEDITERRANEANTHE POTTER/PUBLISHERS,CLARKSONBYPUBLISHEDBENSEL.CAITLINBY2022©COPYRIGHTPHOTOGRAPHYKARADSHEH.SUZYBY2022©COPYRIGHTTEXTKARADSHEH.SUZYBY FROMREPRINTEDCHICKENFRIEDLEMONADELLC.HOUSERANDOMPENGUINOFDIVISIONAHOUSE,RANDOMOFIMPRINTAN HOMAGE CONERLYBRITTANY©PHOTOGRAPHS2022.BOOKS,CHRONICLEFROMPERMISSIONWITHZORN,SARAHWITHSCOTTCHRISBY OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 121
PLACE a rack in center of oven. Preheat oven to 400°F.
1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
MAKE THE BRINE: Combine 8 cups cold water with lemon juice, 1/2 cup hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, cumin, and sugar in a large bowl. Stir until salt and sugar are dissolved. Put chicken in a large plastic storage bag or a glass con tainer and cover with brine. Refrigerate for 12 hours.
REMOVE chicken from brine and put it in another clean plastic storage bag or container. Cover with butter milk and remaining 1 cup hot sauce. Refrigerate for 2 to 6 hours.
1/2 red onion, sliced 1/4-in. thick
CUT tofu in half lengthwise and then into 1/2-inch slices. Combine sesame seeds, cornstarch, salt, five-spice powder, and white pepper powder in a shallow bowl. Carefully coat tofu slices in mixture on both sides, pressing mixture into tofu evenly and thoroughly.
1/4 tsp. five-spice powder
ACTIVE TIME 40 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 40 MINUTES SERVES 4
THE WOKS OF LIFE, and now in their cookbook of the same name, the Leung family (mom Judy, dad Bill, and daughters Sarah and Kaitlin) crack the code on both bestwillrestaurantChinesetraditionaldishesandChineseAmericanclassics.Thiseasyrecipeprobablybethetofuyou’veeverhad.You’llwanttomakeadoublebatchofthesaucefordippingdumplings,drizzlingonrice,ortoppingroastedveggies
Plum Cake
1/4 cup cornstarch
BOOKTHEFROMSAUCEDIPPINGSPICYWITHTOFUSESAME-CRUSTED LIFEOFWOKSTHE LEUNG,SARAHLEUNG,JUDYLEUNG,WILLIAMBY2022©COPYRIGHTLEUNG.KAITLIN&SARAHJUDY,BILL,BY WITHREPRINTEDCAKEPLUMLLC.HOUSERANDOMPENGUINOFDIVISIONAHOUSE,RANDOMOFIMPRINTANPOTTER/PUBLISHERS,CLARKSONBYPUBLISHEDBETOLEUNG.KAITLINAND FROMPERMISSION LATKES,&CAKEHONEY MEDIAMELCHER&FOUNDATIONMEMORIALAUSCHWITZ-BIRKENAUBYPUBLISHEDHEYMANN.CLAIRESURVIVORBYRECIPE2022.©COPYRIGHT 122 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
ADD cilantro, scallions, garlic, and chili flakes, in that order, to a small heatproof bowl. (You will pour hot oil over it, and you want the oil to mostly hit the garlic and chili flakes on top.) Heat a large nonstick pan or cast-iron skillet over medium. Add 3 tablespoons oil and spread it around pan. When oil is shim mering, add tofu slices. Fry, cooking in batches if needed, until golden brown and crispy, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer tofu to a serving platter.
1 tsp. granulated sugar
1/4 tsp. white pepper powder or freshly ground black pepper
2 tsp. Sichuan chili flakes or crushed red pepper
1/2 tsp. rice vinegar
3/4 tsp. fine sea salt
2 Tbsp. soy sauce
2 scallions, chopped
1/3 cup sesame seeds
SESAME-CRUSTED TOFU WITH SPICY DIPPING SAUCE
On their popularmega-site
4 Tbsp. neutral oil (such as canola), divided
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
ADD remaining 1 tablespoon oil to same pan and heat until shimmering. Pour hot oil over garlic-chili mixture, using a rubber spatula to scrape every last drop! Stir in soy sauce, 2 tablespoons water, sugar, and rice vinegar to make a dipping sauce. Serve with crispy tofu.
1 14-to-16-oz. pkg. firm tofu, drained
2 tsp. minced garlic (from about 2 cloves)
PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Grease bottom of a 9-inch springform or 9-by-9-inch pan with cooking spray.
POUR batter into pan, spreading to coat bottom. Arrange plums on top, cut side up. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons sugar. Bake until top has browned and plums have softened, 45 to 50 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 tablespoon sugar. Let cool in pan completely before serving, about 1 hour.
Cooking spray
A collection of heirloom recipes from survivors of the AuschwitzBirkenau concentration camp during World War II, HONEY CAKE & LATKES honors resilience, hope, and the power of food traditions. This simple, beautiful cake comes from Claire Heymann; cut a slice to enjoy with your afternoon coffee or tea, and celebrate life’s sweet moments.
13/4 cups all-purpose flour
OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 123
PLUM CAKE
2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
Join the Club
TOTAL TIME 2 HOURS, 10 MINUTES SERVES 12
BEAT butter with 6 tablespoons sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Stir in eggs 1 at a time. Mix flour with baking powder. Gradually stir it into butter mixture until just combined.
A cookbook club operates similarly to a regular book club: Gather like-minded friends and set a meeting cadence that works for the group, whether it’s every month, every two months, or even seasonally. Choose a book to read and cook from. At the get-together, everyone brings a different homemade dish from it. Let the chatting and chewing commence!
9 Tbsp. salted butter, softened 81/2 Tbsp. granulated sugar, divided
You can also cook along with a group on Instagram. Bebe Black Carminito (@champagneandcookies) and Stephanie Whitten (@awhiskandaspoon) cohost a club featuring women authors, using the hashtag #getcookingcookbookclub. Claudia Prieto Piastro (@piastromexicankitchen) launched #forgottenrecipes cookbookclub in 2020. Her group revolves around monthly themes, often connected to current events and sustainable cooking. Participants can cook from books they already own, so there’s no pressure to spend money. Deborah Balint (@rainydaybites) started #rainydaybitescookbookclub. She invites followers to cook recipes from the two books she chooses each month, and in her recipe challenges, she encourages everyone to post photos of the same dish on a specific date.
Anyone on Instagram can join these clubs. Follow the hosts and hashtags to learn what books or theme the group is cooking from. Cook or bake, snap a photo, post it with the club’s hashtag, and join the conversa tion in the comments. “It’s amazing to see the loving and supportive communities that have sprung up thanks to these cookbook clubs,” Carminito says. —J.H
ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES
2 large eggs
1 tsp. baking powder 11/2 lb. plums (preferably red-fleshed), pitted and sliced
With IF YOU CARE Sustainable Parchment Baking Paper. Roast Veggies. Not the Planet.
IN SEASON Delicata Squash
A daintier alternative to burly butternut and acorn squash, delicata has one big thing going for it: The striped skin is edible (and tasty), so there’s no need to peel.
EASY RAMEN / SHRIMP AND GRITS / MAKE-AHEAD BRUNCH KEELYCHRISTINEBYSTYLINGPROPRAMEE;ALIBYSTYLINGFOOD Photograph by Greg DuPree OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 125 FOOD
SHOP for firm, smooth squash with dark green or orange ridges.
—Lizzy Briskin
PREP by slicing in half and scraping out the seeds with a spoon. Bake the seeds for a crunchy snack!
ROAST half-moons glazed with soy sauce, hot honey, and oil. Bake halves stuffed with a grainand-sausage mixture, or make a seasonal egg-in-a-hole by sautéing rings until soft, then cooking eggs in the center.
STORE in a cool, dry, dark place (not the fridge) for about three weeks.
PAT steak dry. Coat both sides with 1 tablespoon oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Oil grates and preheat grill to medium-high (400°F to 450°F).
11/2 lb. flank steak
1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
SERVING:
2 small pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
2 heads radicchio (1 lb. total)
126 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
Calories,
1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided
Recipes by Melissa Knific
1/4 cup chopped chives
11/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided
9 Tbsp. olive oil, divided, plus more for grill
SERVE radicchio, pears, and steak topped with cheese, chives, and dressing.
PER 700 57g Fat (12g
3 oz. blue cheese, crumbled (about 3/4 cup)
Saturated), 120mg Cholesterol, 5g Fiber, 44g Protein, 34g Carbs, 1,220mg Sodium, 12g Sugar #1 / Balsamic Steak with Radicchio and Pears ACTIVE TIME 45 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 45 MINUTES SERVES 4 ✓ Gluten-Free 5EasyDinners SPOLLENCLAIREBYSTYLINGPROPRAMEE;ALIBYSTYLINGFOOD
GRILL steak, uncovered, until desired doneness, about 5 minutes per side for medium-rare (125°F in thickest part). Let rest for 5 minutes. Grill radicchio and pears, uncovered, until softened and lightly charred on all sides, 8 to 10 minutes. Slice steak against the grain.
1 shallot, finely chopped (3 Tbsp.)
Photographs by Antonis Achilleos
WHISK vinegar, shallot, mustard, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon each salt and pepper in a bowl. Whisk in remaining 6 tablespoons oil.
QUARTER radicchio lengthwise, leaving core intact. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; drizzle with 1 tablespoon oil. Halve pears lengthwise, stem, and core. Add to baking sheet; coat with 1 tablespoon oil.
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
4 medium sweet potatoes
1 14.5-oz. can diced tomatoes and green chiles, drained
1 Tbsp. adobo sauce
1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1 lime, halved
(from 1 can chipotle chiles in adobo sauce)
Saturated),
Protein,
Carbs, 1,095mg Sodium,
1 Tbsp. mild chili powder
PER SERVING: 380 Calories, 6g Fat (1g 0mg Cholesterol, 15g 11g 82g 12g
Sour cream, fresh cilantro leaves, and/or crumbled cotija cheese, for topping (optional)
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped (1 Tbsp.)
Sugar FOOD OCTOBER 2022 REAL SIMPLE 127
PREHEAT oven to 425°F. Prick potatoes all over with a fork. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast until fork-tender, 45 to 55 minutes. Let cool for about 10 minutes.
HALVE sweet potatoes lengthwise. Fluff with a fork and sprinkle with remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Fill with chili. Add desired toppings. Cut remaining lime half into wedges and serve on the side.
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 15-oz. can black beans, undrained
1/2 cup chopped red onion (from 1 onion)
Fiber,
#2 / Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Black Bean Chili ACTIVE TIME 25 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 1 HOUR, 15 MINUTES SERVES 4 ✓ Vegetarian ✓ Gluten-Free ✓ Family Friendly
MEANWHILE, heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high. Add onion; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and chili powder; cook, stirring occasionally, until slightly darkened, about 1 minute. Add beans with liquid, tomatoes, adobo sauce, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium; simmer until thickened, about 15 minutes. Add juice from 1 lime half.
4 large eggs
6 to 7 oz. instant ramen noodles (from 2 [3-to-31/2-oz.] pkg., seasoning packets discarded)
3 8-oz. pkg. sliced cremini mushrooms
6 cups mushroom broth or lower-sodium vegetable broth
1 2-in. piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
1 Tbsp. toasted sesame oil Chili crisp and/or toasted sesame seeds, for topping (optional)
1/4 cup white miso
4 cloves garlic, grated (2 tsp.)
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
MEANWHILE, heat 3 tablespoons canola oil in a large pan over medium-high. Add mushrooms and salt; cook, stirring often, until liquid is evaporated and mushrooms are browned, about 12 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
#3 /
4 tablespoons canola oil, divided
ADD 11/2 teaspoons canola oil to pan. Add spinach; cook, stirring, until slightly wilted, about 1 minute. Transfer to a plate. Add ginger, garlic, and remaining 11/2 teaspoons canola oil to pan; cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Whisk in broth and miso. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium; simmer, undis turbed, for 5 minutes.
PER SERVING: 490 Calories, 24g Fat (3g Saturated), 186mg Cholesterol, 4g Fiber, 19g Protein, 54g Carbs, 1,264mg Sodium, 9g Sugar
PEEL eggs and cut in half lengthwise. Divide broth among bowls. Top with mushrooms, spinach, and egg halves. Drizzle each bowl with 3/4 teaspoon sesame oil. Top with chili crisp and/or toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
MEANWHILE, return pot of water to a boil. Add noodles; cook until tender, about 2 minutes. Drain. Divide noodles among 4 bowls.
5 oz. fresh baby spinach
BRING a medium pot of water to a boil. Fill a large bowl with ice water. Lower eggs into boiling water; boil for 7 minutes. Transfer eggs to ice water for 5 minutes. Reserve water in pot.
RamenSesameBowls
ACTIVE TIME 35 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 35 MINUTES SERVES 4 ✓ Vegetarian ✓ Family Friendly FOOD 128 REAL SIMPLE
Eggland’s Best provides extraordinary nutrition—which is important for today’s healthy and active lifestyles.
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ACTIVE TIME 30 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 30 MINUTES SERVES 4 ✓ Quick Cooking ✓ One Pot ✓ Family Friendly
4 oz. extra-wide egg noodles (2 cups)
1 small sweet onion, chopped (1 cup)
FOOD 130 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
#4 /
1 medium red bell pepper, chopped (11/4 cups)
ADD tomatoes and broth to pot; stir. Bring to a boil over high. Stir in noodles and reduce heat to medium. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender, about 8 minutes. Stir in shredded chicken; simmer, undisturbed, until heated through, about 2 minutes.
1 14.5-oz. can diced fireroasted tomatoes 6 cups lower-sodium chicken broth
TRANSFER 2 to 3 ladles of soup to a large heatproof bowl. Slowly whisk in sour cream until fully combined. Return mixture to pot; stir until combined. Add parsley and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt. Serve topped with more parsley.
PaprikashChickenSoup
3 Tbsp. sweet paprika
2/3 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley, plus more for topping
PER SERVING: 528 Calories, 23g Fat (10g Saturated), 184mg Cholesterol, 4g Fiber, 46g Protein, 37g Carbs, 1,115mg Sodium, 10g Sugar
MELT butter in a large pot over medium. Stir in bell pepper, onion, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables start to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in paprika; cook for 30 seconds.
2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
3/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided
4 cups shredded cooked chicken (such as rotisserie)
BILTMORE.COM/STAY ®
1 lb. peeled, deveined large raw shrimp, patted dry 2 tsp. smoked paprika
2 Tbsp. canola oil, divided 1 bunch scallions, trimmed
BRING 4 cups broth and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a boil in a medium pot. Slowly whisk in grits. Reduce heat to medium-low; cook, whisking often, until creamy, about 5 minutes. Cover to keep warm.
INCREASE heat under skillet to medium-high. Add shrimp; cook, stirring occasionally, until pink and firm, 2 to 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a plate. REDUCE heat under skillet to medium. Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Stir in tomatoes, white and light green scallions, 1/2 cup dark green scallions, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes start to soften, about 5 minutes. Pour in remaining 1 cup broth. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes are softened and sauce is reduced slightly, about 5 minutes. Stir in shrimp, lemon zest, and remaining 1 tablespoon butter.
PER SERVING: 464 Calories, 22g Fat (9g Saturated), 173mg Cholesterol, 4g Fiber, 26g Protein, 45g Carbs, 1,240mg Sodium, 2g Sugar
SERVES
ACTIVE TIME 40 MINUTES
1 pt. grape tomatoes
FOOD 132 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
TOSS together shrimp, paprika, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon oil in a bowl. Slice scallions, separating white and light green parts from dark green parts (you should have about 3/4 cup each).
SERVE grits topped with shrimp, tomato sauce, browned butter, and remaining 1/4 cup dark green scallions. Top with more lemon zest, if desired.
Shrimp and Brown Butter Grits
1 tsp. granulated garlic
#5 /
5 cups lower-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, divided 2 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1 cup quick-cooking grits (not instant)
1 tsp. lemon zest plus 1 Tbsp. juice (from 1 large lemon), plus more zest for topping (optional)
✓ Gluten-Free
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, divided
MELT 3 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium. Swirl until golden brown and nutty, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a heatproof bowl; whisk in lemon juice and 3/4 teaspoon salt.
TOTAL TIME 40 MINUTES 4
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HEAT oil in a large skillet over medium. Add mushrooms, leek, and 1 teaspoon salt; cook until starting to brown, about 6 minutes. Add asparagus; cook until bright green, about 3 minutes. Add spinach and garlic; cook, tossing constantly, until spinach is wilted, 2 to 3 minutes.
WHISK eggs, milk, chives, mustard, pepper, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt in a large bowl.
2 Tbsp. olive oil
Cooking spray
BETTER FOR YOU
8 cups 1∕2-in. cubes whole-grain bread (from 1 loaf)
TAKE STALK
1 1-lb. bunch fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 3∕4-in. pieces (about 2 cups)
BY LIZZY BRISKIN
ACTIVE TIME 30 MINUTES
Photographs by Antonis Achilleos
1 8-oz. pkg. sliced cremini mushrooms
This herby, cheesy casserole will have everyone craving produce in the morning.
LET stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F.
1∕4 cup minced fresh chives, plus more for topping
COAT a 13-by-9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Add bread cubes.
6 oz. Asiago cheese, shredded (about 11∕2 cups)
2 cups whole milk
2 tsp. kosher salt, divided
TOTAL TIME 3 HOURS SERVES 8
COVER dish and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake until center is set and edges are crisp, 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool for 5 minutes. Top with more chives and serve.
ADD vegetables to baking dish and stir. Add egg mixture, pressing down to moisten bread. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour and up to 12 hours.
SPOLLENCLAIREBYSTYLINGPROPGRAY;MELISSABYSTYLINGFOOD 134 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022 FOOD
3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbsp.)
5 oz. fresh baby spinach
1 large leek (white and light green parts only), sliced into 1∕4-in. half-moons (2 cups)
1∕2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
Veggie-Packed Strata
Related to onions but milder and taller, leeks have a delicate flavor and a pretty, ombré color. The tender white and light green parts are better for eating; the dark, woody tops add flavor to stock. Leeks pack immune-strengthening vitamin C, antioxidants, and gut-friendly dietary fiber.
8 large eggs
1 Tbsp. Dijon mustard
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“Karaoke” means “empty orchestra” in Japanese. The Japanese musician and entrepreneur Daisuke Inoue is widely credited with inventing the machine in the 1970s, though he never patented it. In 2004, he won the satirical Ig Nobel Peace Prize for his creation, “thereby providing an entirely new way for people to learn to tolerate each other,” per the committee. In Japan, you’re more likely to sing in a karaoke “box,” or private room, than the public bars we’re used to in America (though alcohol is a major supporting player in both countries). Karaoke arrived stateside in the ’80s but didn’t really take off until the early 2000s; some people partly credit the 2003 film Lost in Translation for the boom “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen is one of the most popular karaoke songs. In 2011, the Italian singer Leonardo Polverelli sang karaoke for over four days straight, earning a Guinness World Record. This past August, Keke Adiba from Indonesia won the 20th annual Karaoke World Championships.
Photograph by Ted + Chelsea Cavanaugh
WHO KNEW?
BEVILACQUAMARINABYSTYLINGPROP 136 REAL SIMPLE OCTOBER 2022
FOR SOME, it’s an adrenaline rush and stress reliever. For others? A surefire way to humiliate yourself. Either way, most karaoke experts agree that a good singing voice is beside the point. To have a blast and put on a good show, you just need to pick a song you love (one you know the words to, so you’re not staring at the monitor!) and belt it out loud and proud. If there’s simply no way you’re getting up on stage, regale your friends with some fun facts about the pastime while they wait for their turn at the mic.
Karaoke
Her opening song choice: “Never Enough” from The Greatest Showman —Jenny Brown
1. Preheat oven to 325º 2. Cream butter and add other ingredients 3. Roll into balls 4. Poke indentations into each 5. Bake for 10 minutes and remove 6. Add caramel to each and bake another 5 minutes SCAN FOR FULL RECIPE www.werthers-original.us/en/recipes Easy Caramel Thumbprint Cookies ©2022 Storck USA, L.P.
*
Fight wrinkles full strength.
