The Season of Simplifying

Simplify.

When I think of this particular spring season, this is the word that has come to mind again and again for me. Both in my personal life and my business, I'm learning to trust that simplifying can only bring me more clarity, perspective, and peace. I know I'm not alone in thinking this way. Living through once-in-a-lifetime global pandemic has challenged all of us in ways we couldn't have anticipated just months ago. Amidst the chaos, one good thing that has come from this time is the opportunity to reflect on what really matters to us.

Becoming a shopkeeper has been a wonderful experience for me and I will always cherish the memories that the physical space on Hillsboro Circle has held. As bittersweet as it is to let the shop go, this decision is a prime example of how I’m choosing to simplify my business for the better.

I'm looking forward to focusing more efforts on my design business, future collaborations with brands, and of course, spreading the SB. joy with you online. I invite you to browse SB.'s new online shop here and explore our favorite finds from artisans around the world! 
 

WHAT I'M READING

Set in turn-of-the-century Paris, this story is about the three women Proust used to create his famed fictional character, the Duchesse de Guermantes.
From the author of Sweetbitter, a striking memoir that follows a family's shattered past, and the quest of a daughter to forge her own path. 
This novel, the first of the author's translated into English, takes place during the Mexican Revolution and the 1918 flu pandemic and centers around a child who has mysterious visions of the future. 

WHAT I'M WATCHING

"My Brilliant Friend" on HBO (Pictured above)
Based on Elena Ferrante's novel of the same name, this is one of the most incredible coming-of-age stories about female friendship. This show is beyond beautiful. The color palettes so inspiring, the lighting is gorgeous. I love the fashion style and scenery. And it's filmed on the beautiful coast of Italy, which transports the viewer on a virtual vacation (something we all need right now)!
"Little Fires Everywhere" on Hulu
A show-stopping series produced by Reese Witherspoon starring herself, Kerry Washington, Joshua Jackson and an incredible cast of teenage actors. Based off of the book of the same name, the series follows Mia Warren and her daughter Pearl, who arrive to Shaker Heights, Ohio 
"Step" 
I watched this documentary following a Baltimore high school girl's step dance team with my daughter recently. It won an award at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival and is inspiring, encouraging, and leaves you breathless. 

WHAT I'M LISTENING TO

 The "Unlocking Us" Podcast by  Brené Brown 
I’m the ultimate fangirl of Brené.  She reminds me again and again that there is strength in vulnerability and that what we all need now is more empathy and less perfectionism. Some of my favorite episodes of her podcast recently include Brené on FFTs and Harriet Lerner and Brené on How to Apologize and Why It Matters. 
Armchair Expert Podcast with Dax Shepard
Dubbed "the podcast that celebrates the messiness of being human," I've loved tuning into these episodes. There are over 200 to listen to! 
The Daily Calm via The Calm App
Download the free Calm app to access hundreds of meditations.