I'll be honest: the last week of August always makes me restless, antsy, a little distracted, and edgy. Late August marks the death anniversaries of two childhood friends. This is the week I said goodbye to Finn, my cherished furry companion of 16 years. It's also the week when, now 19 years ago, my beloved New Orleans was destroyed by a hurricane. Two years ago, yet another terrible hurricane, Ida, struck on the exact same day that Katrina had.
Preparing for this week, I originally composed a flurry of heavy, emotional posts and then decided that maybe we needed more balance. Both/and. On Thursday and Friday, I'll be sharing a long essay I wrote on the tenth anniversary of Katrina. I hope you'll come back to reflect with me. Today, let's enjoy something lighter and practical.
Here's a roundup of items I've been using (and enjoying) constantly as August draws to a close.
French press: This stylish, super high-quality French press makes excellent coffee, keeps it hot for hours, and is impeccably constructed. We have two: one at home and one at our New Orleans apartment. We use it all. the. time.
Eyelet dress: While other parts of the country are ready for "transitional" outfits to bridge into fall, Louisiana August still feels like warm pudding. I've been wearing this dress on repeat—it's flowy and ventilated, has pockets, and feels feminine and special.
Saucony sneakers: After I needed a major ankle surgery a few years ago, I decided to permanently give up uncomfortable shoes that I can't actually walk miles in. These offer a wider than average toe box, which is crucial for happy feet. I like this pair's low-profile, minimalist vibe. I've been wearing these almost daily with dresses, skirts, and wide leg pants.
Wide mouth jars: We started using Le Parfait glass jars after medical advice to eliminate plastic; now we use these jars for leftovers, homemade granola, and work lunches, including my favorite jar salads. They are a great upgrade from plastic and make everything look prettier.
White swimsuit: I got this swimsuit during Prime Day and packed it for our annual Dauphin Island family trip. It's amazing! So flattering, secure, well-made, modest without being frumpy, and a rare white swimsuit that is properly opaque. I felt great wearing it all week on the beach, climbing rocks, biking, fishing, and hanging around the pool. (I even went back and ordered a black one, too!)
Paper planner: Paper planners or bust. I like that this one is very minimalist with blank dates and versatile planning blocks. It's surprisingly difficult to find a planner without a gazillion frills and features. I have bought and rebought this one about ten times.
Kur nail veil: This is a holy grail nail product. I prefer a natural manicure, and one quick coat of this liquid magic makes your nails look so bright, pretty, and somehow more "finished." I usually do one coat on my fingers and two or three on toes. Bonus: it dries super quickly.
Portable charger: I have lived in coffeehouses this August, working on a host of projects from my trusty laptop. I love that this portable charger has integrated cables and an integrated plug. Filed under "why didn't they think of that sooner?"
Pajamas: I love a good pajama set. My last set ripped, so I got this affordable pair. They're just wonderful—soft, stretchy, but substantial. I appreciate the details like piping, cuffs, and adjustable tie waist. Save this as a great gift idea for almost anyone on your list!
Fleur di lis baseball cap: I used a good coupon code to purchase this splurgy cap, and I can attest that it's very well made. I wear it all the time, including nearly every day this month. It's stylish enough to pair with real outfits—I actually love how it looks with a dress or midi skirt. Sun protection, instant hairstyle, and Who Dat vibes all in one.
Gluten-free crackers: I can't count how many boxes of these we've gone through. I've been medically advised to to minimize gluten, but gluten-free crackers usually taste and feel weird, and often leave a sour aftertaste. These crackers have the satisfying texture of any regular cracker, plus they taste amazing. I store a box of these in my work desk for quick lunches (just add a can of tuna in oil, smoked salmon, peanut butter, or another topping).
Travel Aeropress: I have used this coffee press on a moving bus, in airports, and in more hotel rooms than I can count. I also keep one at work. It makes incredible coffee every time—and it's been the MVP of an incredibly busy August. Aeropress also comes in a bigger version, but I like this self-contained one that packs into its own cup. All you need is a hot water source (and coffee, of course). Here's how to use it.
Le Pass app: I used the streetcar a lot this month and cannot overstate how much I love the Le Pass app. It offers real-time streetcar routes and arrival times, but most importantly, you can buy and use tickets through the app. So much more convenient than trying to remember exact change every time you want to ride the streetcar.
Pur gum: August means back to school, which means homework, which means inevitable stress. Look: chewing gum is better than smoking or drinking your way through fifth grade math, and I like this gum because it does not contain aspartame. Tons of flavors!
Canva Pro: Canva Pro is worth every penny if you're creating things with regularity. This month I've used Canva to make my own posters when I couldn't find what I wanted on the market; fine art prints of one of my paintings; keynote presentations; interactive travel companions; retreat formation materials; videos; social media reels; and more.
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