Weekend Notes: April 20th.

Basket Bag

NYC schools are officially on spring break, so my kids are out of school for twelve days.

We don’t have any significant spring break plans except heading up to our Pennsylvania lake house for a couple of days with a few of our friends. Instead (and I know I’ve mentioned this before), we’re pulling them out of school in May and taking them to Disney and Universal for the week. They have no idea, and I know they’re going to lose their sh*t! Especially Nate, who is now completely engulfed in the world of Harry Potter and keeps asking to go. It’s supposed to be an off-week, so hopefully, we avoid the typical crazy crowds. 

Kids trip aside, a couple of my girlfriends and I are trying to make a Euro trip happen in June. It’s last minute, so who knows how it will all play out. The original plan was to do a girls’ trip to Paris, but with the Olympics happening, we decided to scratch that plan and change directions. Right now, it’s a toss-up between Spain and Portugal. I’ve only been to Barcelona, and the other ladies haven’t been to either. 

Is the Balenciaga City bag back? For me, the bag has always been more than just a handbag, and I shared a more personal post on my substack that goes deep down memory lane. 

In general, I’ve been sharing a lot more personal posts on my substack. This one talks about the shifts in the industry and aging through it all. 

Weekend Notes April 20th

When it comes to reading, I admittedly like my share of smut. I’m not proud of it, but I like what I like. Years ago, when I read ‘The Idea of You’ (one of my all-time favorites), I joined the book Facebook group. To this day, I’m still part of the group for the book recommendations that I get. Someone recommended ‘Older,’ and it’s not a book for everyone, but I cannot put it down. 

A New Yorker’s Guide to People Watching. I concur with the article that it’s my all-time favorite hobby. 

Spring decor ideas to brighten your home.

The 100 Best Hotels of the New Year.

I ordered these denim shorts in white after getting (and loving) the blue. I took my usual size, but I’d size up for a slightly looser fit.

The shows & movies to watch this April.

These SŌM Microneedle eye patches are pricey, but so good. My code Helena20 gets you 20% off.

‘Why I’m going on a silent retreat after realizing how much I talked at the hang last night.” Goodness, I know I’ve been there. Waking up after a night out with friends, especially newer friends I’m a tad less comfortable with, and thinking to myself: “Holy shit! Did I say too much? Dominate the conversation too much?” 

Lessons from a 70-year-old former NYC Influencer.

Not your typical Brooklyn townhouse. 

I’m planning to make this Thai Chicken & Pineapple Stir fry from Skinny Taste this week. 

A handbag is essential to ensure I always have fresh breath, even on the go.

Sunday (4/21) is the last day for the Early Bird sale. Use code HELENA20 for 20% off. They’re an adult household favorite of ours. They’re a mix of CBD and very low THC; Half takes the edge off, but a full one gives you a nice buzzy feeling without any hangover or heavy feeling the next day. 

I just got this basket bag. It’s even more gorgeous and well-made in person. 

Another spring/summer purchase was these sandals from AEYDE, one of my favorite shoe brands. I’ll keep you guys posted! 

The 8 best green teas to buy & try.

Have the best week!

Helena