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Hi Reader, and happy Friday!

I wanted to take a moment to say hi and re-introduce myself; whether you’re new here or have been sticking with me on my little corner of the internet for the past 13 years, I’m happy you’re here.

Midway through 2025, I rededicated myself to this online space, and part of that rededication is firing up this email list again! I’m hoping these weekend messages are a way for us to connect with each other in a more informal, fun way.

I wanted to start this week's newsletter off by sending love from the Queen City to the Twin Cities and to all the neighbors, families and organizers working toward protecting their communities and peace. While I do have some updates and new posts to share, skipping over what’s happening right now was something I couldn’t do, especially because we have people very near and dear to us living in the Twin Cities.

I don’t believe our hearts or nervous systems were designed to absorb an endless stream of images and videos, tragedy after tragedy, in rapid succession. At the same time, I don’t believe the answer is to look away or deny what we’re seeing with our own eyes. It feels wrong to pretend life can continue as normal when the world is moving from crisis to crisis, grief stacked upon grief. There’s no quick recovery from that, no clean compartmentalizing, no real way to escape the toll it takes on our bodies and spirits.

If you’re looking for direct ways to support communities in Minneapolis, please consider donating meals to anyone in need in the Twin Cities, including people who are supporting efforts on the ground to keep their communities safe and stable, as well as people who are struggling to access basic supplies because they are too afraid to leave their homes.

I hope you are taking care of yourselves right now as these are not things we were meant to carry alone. These days, my joy has been quieter and closer to home: I just finished reading Strangers, a beautiful memoir by Belle Burden that has lingered with me long after the last page’ building botanical LEGO creations with my four-year-old; gathering around the table for board games with my kids and husband (right now our favorites are Candyland, Chutes and Ladders and Murdle), and curling up in some cozy socks for a Heated Rivalry rewatch.

I’m loving getting off my small scrolling screen when I can, shared laughter, and small rituals that make everything feel a little steadier.

If you're planning to get out of the house this weekend (fingers crossed we aren't snowed in again), check out some of my favorite Queen City brunch spots or (for those with littles) local toddler activities. Of course, this chili is always a favorite if you're staying inside to keep warm!

Until next week — stay warm and safe, friends.

-Chrissie