Lovin' Lately no. 9
Plus one of my fave trader joes finds
Hi! Danielle Wraith here! The Second Act is the weekly newsletter I always wanted in my inbox, packed with obsessively-curated recommendations, thoughtful reflections on books, feelings, life, and the art of making room for more. Whether you're seeking inspiration or connection. The Second Act offers a warm, inviting space for all.
Imagine we’re catching up over coffee and I’m gushing over what I’ve been Lovin’ Lately…
📚 Margot’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe: Reading this outrageous book (out today!) on a recent park date with a friend, I kept interrupting her flow to read aloud sentences, “He was a wind chime in human form, dangling dorkily from the glorious tree of higher education.” In it, Margo drops out of college to have a baby (the father is the dorky wind chime, her former professor), and is immediately hit by the weight of the challenge and financial impossibility. She creates an OnlyFans account, which—stick with me here—gains popularity when her dad, a former pro wrestler, gives her tips on the art of creating a branded personality. Original and empathetic to its core. Elle Fanning, who reads the audiobook, recently signed on to star in the AppleTV+ adaptation!
🍝 Trader Joe’s Chicken Meatballs: When you’re craving the comfort of a home-cooked meal, but don’t have the energy to make a home-cooked meal, I cannot recommend the following more highly: these meatballs, a handful of spinach, feta or shaved Parmesan, lots of salted butter, and sun-dried tomatoes tossed with some penne. Inexpensive, easy, and delicious. Chicken meatballs for the exhausted soul.
🎥 ‘Challengers’ Movie: Between her Vogue cover and finally seeing ‘Dune 2,’ I am firmly in my Zendaya fan girl era (aren’t we all??). In her latest movie, by ‘Call Me By Your Name’ director Luca Guadagnino, she stars as a tennis prodigy/coach at the center of a love triangle. Time jumps back and forth, as the tension grows between the trio with subtle manipulation and games that go beyond the court.
Sharing a few of my saves and other faves bc cool girls don’t gatekeep
This Super Soft Skort that gives sporty spice vibes. I paired it with this oversized tee. Perfect for runnning errands.
Cute glasswear with bows, say less
If you’ve seen me lately, I’ve probably been wearing these Contrast-Stitch Cropped Wide-Leg Pants
The swooniest Spotify playlist, BREAKFAST IN A NANCY MYERS KITCHEN.
I swear this oil has changed my life. a little behind both ears for the best sleep of your life.
My go to necklace is this freshwater Pearl Station Necklace
What have you been reading lately?Here are a handful of books that explore Sisterhood.
After months of hauling around so.much.stuff from one activity to the next activity, I upgraded to a large L.L.Bean tote (with monogramming) and I’m so excited to have a better way to haul everything. I got the mauve which I love.
More to read:
Alright, see ya next week! Leave me a comment on anything you’d like me to include in Lovin’ Lately in the future… Day in the life details? What’s on my TBR? Fave spots in Fresno? Got a question? Lemme know!
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I've been hearing great things about Margo's Got Money Troubles. I placed it on hold through Libby. I can't wait until it becomes available!
Loved Challengers, Zendaya is a star! I'd love to see what's new on your TBR!