RS - July 2020

realsimple

THE HAPPIEST WAYS TO GATHER OUTSIDE

LIFE MADE EASIER

Pure Joys of Summer

Ideal Beach Reads Walking Workouts That Boost Mood Grill and Chill with Easy Meals JULY 2020

E d i t o r ’s N o t e

A Simple Story for the Times #simplestor y

the concept of the #simplestory here on my editor’s note back in January. You read, you commented, you wrote, you shared with me on Instagram. And now it’s time to start sharing with you.

As I write this, it’s been eight weeks of working from home and social distancing.

I mourn all the lives we’ve lost and grieve for those who’ve been away from loved ones, who’ve lost their jobs, who’ve had to shut down businesses. I’ve been holding up all too well (guilt!) in my suburban home with an office, and I’m grateful for every second with my nontoddler daughters who can distance learn without my help. I look forward to the time when we all come back stronger—when we connect with one another again in ways that are emotionally satisfying.

As I read Paris’s #simplestory (at right), I knew it would be among the first ones I published. It’s relatable to anyone who has ever been short-tempered and irritable. And it brings us around to the one thing that is certain: Kindness wins.

Enjoy Paris’s #simplestory. And enjoy the rest of this distantly produced issue, which I assure you was assembled with as much care and spirit as any other.

Whether you take your summer in the sun, around a firepit, or at a cookout, I hope we help you find the warmth and have a healthy, joyful summer.

I

INTRODUCED

You can be standing next to someone, sharing the same space, yet still not be paying attention to their needs.

I struggled with a bit of social anxiety yesterday, the complications of which can make seemingly mundane tasks—like going to the bank or choosing an envelope size—feel insurmountable. I was at the post office, torn between two mailers, increasingly anxious about negligible price differences, when, to my horror, a gentleman standing in line at the register shouted at me gruffly, “Hey!” I winced and nodded a “What’s up?” Then he turned to the woman behind the counter and said, “I’m going to pay for that girl’s stuff.

I’m going to pay for your stuff!”

I was so surprised, standing there with a mailer in each hand and still undecided about pricing, that I had nothing to say except a very heartfelt and taken-aback “Thank you.” As he walked out, the woman at the register smiled serenely and said what I had just been thinking: “Now is the time for you to do something nice for someone else.”

It’s really that simple.

—@ PA R I S _ L A N G L E

Tell me about it!

Let’s look for meaningful moments in our lives and share them here.

Tag your Instagram posts with #simplestory and @LizVaccariello to get them to me.

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P h o t o g r a p h b y Ta w n i B a n n i s t e r

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Contents July 2020

O N T H E C OV E R

which bloom from midsummer until the first frost, come in a dazzling array of colors, shapes, and sizes. They last about four days in a vase; to extend the life of cut flowers, snip the stems and change the water every two days.

DAHLIAS,

41, 59, 113, and throughout the issue

Pure Joys of Summer Ideal Beach Reads

20

Walking Workouts That Boost Mood

79

Grill and Chill with Easy Meals 29, 42, 86, 114 The Happiest Ways to Gather Outside 59, 79, 100

86 Fresh takes on pasta salad

100

94

10 6

Firepits for any home

Humidity-proof hairstyles

Pleasure read for your mental wellness

Cover Photograph by Br yan Gardner 4 R E A L S I M P L E J U LY 2 02 0

Floral St yling by Livia Cetti

22

20

29

Brilliant beauty products

Page-turners for a summertime escape

Top dogs (and chips and buns)

Editor’s Note

2

The Staple

Real Simple 24 /7

8

Marshmallows, all grown up

Your Words My Simple Realization

10 12

Wash Day Wonders

Clever Items Little helpers that make life easier

15

Blend a Better Milkshake

Good Read

Engrossing beach reads 20

Things Cooks Know

Pretty Smart 22

Is It Worth a Shot?

24

Road Test: Beauty Shave, wax, tweeze, and zap with our favorite hair removers 26

Road Test: Food The best BBQ fixings

Revamp breakfast, bedtime, and more to make every day special 59 Unstinting advice from Catherine Newman

The Short List

An FAQ on wrinkle reducers and fillers

34

9 Family Routines to Refresh for Summer

the realist Follow this formula

Beauty buys to simplify your routine

32

How to Manage a Chronic Condition at Work

Modern Manners

what we love Good-looking laundry supplies

relating

29

Unexpected foods you should be grilling

41

42

Trend to Try Breezy pleats to cool you down

44

How Smart Should Your Home Be? High-tech gadgets to consider investing in

64

Novelist Curtis Sittenfeld used to form friendships slowly. Not anymore 67

Pet Tricks Keep them hydrated on the hottest days 70

Save Big on 6 Pricey Purchases 47

Real Simple Home Preview We’re designing a duplex from scratch—here’s a peek at the living room 54

Score discounts on renovations, weddings, and other splurges

Take care of your health and get the job done 76

The Most Interesting Path to Lifelong Fitness Walking: the do-anywhere workout that delivers major benefits 79

Ahhh Beach meditation

85

Just for the Hull of It A quick way to prep strawberries

113

5 Easy Dinners Meals to eat outside

114

120

Big Batch 86

Hair That’s Happy with Humidity 72

106

food

Probiotic-packed broccoli slaw

Pasta Salad Days

Simple styling tweaks help you look polished in the heat

Can literature heal emotional wounds?

One writer tries bibliotherapy

Plant Powered

features Veggie-forward noodle bowls to brighten your summer table

balance

A Book for Every Ailment

Shortcut clambake for a crowd

122

who knew?

94

Fire Up Family Time Set up a firepit in your own backyard (it’s easier than you think) 100

6 Surprising Things Google Maps Can Do Tap into the full power of the app

124

REAL SIMPLE (ISSN 1528-1701) (JULY 2020) (VOLUME 21/ISSUE 7) IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY TI GOTHAM INC. TI GOTHAM INC. IS A WHOLLY OWNED SUBSIDIARY OF MEREDITH CORPORATION. PRINCIPAL OFFICE: 225 LIBERTY ST., NEW YORK, NY 10281-1008. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT NEW YORK, NY, AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. POSTMASTER: SEND ALL UAA TO CFS (SEE DMM 507.1.5.2); NONPOSTAL AND MILITARY FACILITIES: SEND ADDRESS CORRECTIONS TO REAL SIMPLE MAGAZINE, PO BOX 37508, BOONE, IA 50037-0508. CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT #40069223. BN# 13200211RT001. © ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. PRINTED IN THE U.S.A. CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SUBSCRIPTIONS: FOR 24/7 SERVICE, PLEASE USE OUR WEBSITE: REALSIMPLE.COM/MYACCOUNT. YOU CAN ALSO CALL 1-800-881-1172 OR WRITE REAL SIMPLE, PO BOX 37508, BOONE, IA 50037-0508. REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED. YOUR BANK MAY PROVIDE UPDATES TO THE CARD INFORMATION WE HAVE ON FILE. YOU MAY OPT OUT OF THIS SERVICE AT ANY TIME. FOR SYNDICATION OR INTERNATIONAL LICENSING REQUESTS OR REPRINT AND REUSE PERMISSION, EMAIL SYNDICATION@MEREDITH.COM.

J U LY 2 02 0 R E A L S I M P L E

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Liz Vaccariello EDITOR IN CHIEF

Emily Kehe CRE ATIVE DIRECTOR EXECUTIVE EDITOR Rory Evans

“Lavender.”

EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR Lavinel Savu PHOTO DIRECTOR Muzam Agha

E D I TO R I A L SENIOR EDITORS Brandi Broxson,

Rachel Sylvester A SSISTANT EDITOR Martha Upton CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

“That pale beige, almost with a tint of pink, is so pret ty and soothing.”

Catherine Newman, Courtenay Smith

FO OD FO OD DIRECTOR Jenna Helwig FO OD EDITOR Ananda Eidelstein

B E AU T Y BE AUT Y DIRECTOR Heather Muir Maffei DEPUT Y BE AUT Y DIRECTOR Lisa DeSantis A SSISTANT BE AUT Y EDITOR Anneke Knot

HOME HOME DIRECTOR Stephanie Sisco SENIOR A SSO CIATE HOME EDITOR Leslie Corona CONTRIBUTING HOME EDITOR

Cat Dash

“Dusty pink.

The color makes any type of bloom, from carnations to roses, look antique and special.”

FA S H I O N A SSO CIATE FA SHION EDITOR Flavia Nunez

A RT & P H O T O DESIGN DIRECTOR Deanna Lowe DEPUT Y PHOTO EDITOR Lawrence J. Whritenour Jr. DESIGNER Lina LeGare

P RO D U C T I O N EDITORIAL PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Filomena Guzzardi

C O P Y & R E S E A RC H COPY & RESE ARCH CHIEF Jenny Brown CONTRIBUTING SENIOR RESE ARCH EDITOR

Maya Kukes

R E A L S I M P L E .C O M EXECUTIVE EDITOR Mickey O’Connor DEPUT Y EDITOR Jennifer Davidson SENIOR EDITOR, HOME Katie Holdefehr SENIOR EDITOR, FO OD Betty Gold SEO EDITOR Lauren Phillips A SSO CIATE EDITORS Hana Hong, Maggie Seaver SO CIAL MEDIA EDITOR Lauren Zaser PHOTO MANAGER Olivia Barr A SSO CIATE PRODUCER Taylor Eisenhauer

“ The purplish black center of a white anemone.”

EXECUTIVE VIDEO PRODUCER Karen Berner SENIOR VIDEO PRODUCER Christopher Smith VIDEO PRODUCER Alex Frank NEWS VIDEO PRODUCER Amy Frank

Daren Mazzucca Kristin Guinan A SSO CIATE PUBLISHER, MARKETING

A DV E RT I S I N G S A L E S E A ST COA ST E A STERN ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Lizzie Meier Utt INTEGR ATED ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Haley Carter, Kerry Dunne A SSO CIATE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Alexia Vicario ADVERTISING SALES A SSISTANT Lindsey Weiss

MIDWEST VICE PRESIDENT, GROUP SALES DIRECTOR Mindy Provenzano INTEGR ATED ACCOUNT DIRECTORS Margaret Graff, Jennifer Latwis ADVERTISING SALES A SSISTANT Teri Dasbach

WEST COA ST INTEGR ATED ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Janet Yano

“Blue hydrangeas remind me of summertime and always make me happy.”

MARKETING A SSO CIATE MARKETING DIRECTOR Michael Texier SENIOR MARKETING MANAGERS Misty Chandler, Chanel Rivers MARKETING CO ORDINATOR Genevieve Herdegen ART DIRECTOR Sarah Massimo SENIOR PUBLICIT Y MANAGER Kari Stephenson PR CO ORDINATOR Katie Holzman

C O N T E N T, S T R AT EGY & I N S I G H T S VICE PRESIDENT Andy Borinstein DIRECTORS Karen Bakos, Emily Fleishman SENIOR MANAGER Kseniya Ivnitskaya MANAGER Maura Ruane

P RO D U C T I O N , C I RC U L AT I O N & F I N A N C E PRODUCTION DIRECTOR John Beard SENIOR PRODUCTION MANAGER Courtney Thompson

“The deep, dark, bluish purple of the delicate but striking delphinium.”

PRODUCTION TR AFFIC SUPERVISOR Matthew Fischels DIRECTOR OF QUALIT Y Joseph Kohler COLOR QUALIT Y ANALYST Pamela Powers A SSO CIATE CONSUMER MARKETING DIRECTOR Lynn Bolinger NEWSSTAND RETAIL Rose Cirrincione EXECUTIVE BUSINESS DIRECTOR Janice Croat A SSO CIATE BUSINESS DIRECTOR Bryce Rockers ADVERTISING BUSINESS MANAGER Zena Norbont

D I G I TA L VICE PRESIDENT, CONTENT STR ATEGY & OPER ATIONS Melissa Inman SENIOR DIRECTOR, CONTENT STR ATEGY Heather Morgan Shott GENER AL MANAGER, HOME Angelique Jurgill DIRECTOR, GROW TH MARKETING Beth Ifcher CRE ATIVE DIRECTOR Rebecca Hart E-COMMERCE EDITORIAL LE AD Chloe Reznikov SENIOR AUDIENCE RETENTION MANAGER Kelly Lage

M E R E D I T H N AT I O N A L M E D I A G RO U P PRESIDENT, MEREDITH MAGA ZINES Doug Olson PRESIDENT, CONSUMER PRODUCTS Tom Witschi PRESIDENT, CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER Catherine Levene CHIEF BUSINESS & DATA OFFICER Alysia Borsa CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER Michael Brownstein MARKETING & INTEGR ATED COMMUNIC ATIONS Nancy Weber

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENTS CONSUMER REVENUE Andy Wilson CORP OR ATE SALES Brian Kightlinger DIRECT MEDIA Patti Follo RESE ARCH SOLUTIONS Britta Cleveland STR ATEGIC SOURCING, NEWSSTAND, PRODUCTION Chuck Howell DIGITAL SALES Marla Newman THE FOUNDRY Matt Petersen PRODUCT & TECHNOLO GY Justin Law

VICE PRESIDENTS FINANCE Chris Susil BUSINESS PL ANNING & ANALYSIS Rob Silverstone CONSUMER MARKETING Steve Crowe BR AND LICENSING Toye Cody, Sondra Newkirk CORP OR ATE BE AUT Y Ahu Terzi CORP OR ATE COMMUNIC ATIONS Jill Davison VICE PRESIDENT, GROUP EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Liz Vaccariello DIRECTOR, EDITORIAL OPER ATIONS & FINANCE Alexandra Brez

M E R E D I T H C O R P O R AT I O N PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Tom Harty CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Jason Frierott CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER John Zieser CHIEF STR ATEGY OFFICER Daphne Kwon PRESIDENT, MEREDITH LO C AL MEDIA GROUP Patrick McCreery SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, HUMAN RESOURCES Dina Nathanson

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“I’m a natural redhead, so my favorite color in a flower is of course a deep fall orange!”

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, GROUP PUBLISHER

CHAIRMAN Stephen M. Lacy VICE CHAIRMAN Mell Meredith Frazier

“Orange and red.

My daughter ’s name is Poppy, and I’m certain that’s why.

Although I love purple poppies too!”

I L L U S T R AT I O N S B Y C L A R E O W E N

What’s your favorite color in a flower?

Because life doesn’t watch your money, Eno looks out for credit card charges that may surprise you and helps you fix them.

Your Capital One® assistant

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Actual experiences may differ from those depicted. Limitations apply. © 2020 Capital One

Real Simple 24/7 FOLLOW US ONLINE FOR E XCLUSIVE IDE A S, TIP S, A N D W AY S T O M A K E L I F E E A S I E R — E V E RY D AY.

MEET

RO RY E VA N S

T H E S AVO RY S I D E O F S U M M E R F RU I T

EXECUTIVE EDITOR AT R E A L S I M P L E

What’s the coziest thing in your apartment?

Hirsute life partner, but also Yooks, our 14-pound mutt who looks like a scale-model golden retriever.

Get recipes at realsimple .com/summerfruit.

Currently binge-watching: Law & Order is my life & oxygen.

Favorite seasonal dish: It’s always cheese-andcracker season! And wild blueberries from my cousins’ farm in Maine.

White Dresses for Summer These breezy cotton and linen picks are designed to keep you cool and comfortable when the temperature rises.

See our faves at realsimple.com/whitedresses.

NEED A GOOD BOOK? Every Wednesday on the ’gram, our editors suggest books for the week—from beach reads to page-turner biographies to classics they finally got around to.

Follow @real_simple on Instagram for book recs.

The Top Sites for Patio Furniture Let us help you find stylish options that will maximize your living space.

P I N T E R E ST @REALSIMPLE

Start building your best backyard at realsimple.com/ outdoorpatio.

Open

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and tap

to make your July 4 special.

TWITTER @REALSIMPLE

FAC E B O O K @REALSIMPLE

S N A P C H AT @ R E A L S I M P L E M AG

I N STAG R A M @ R E A L _S I M P L E

C L O C K W I S E F R O M T O P L E F T: C O U R T E S Y O F R O R Y E VA N S ; E R I C K A M c C O N N E L L ; G R E G D U P R E E , F O O D S T Y L I N G B Y C H E L S E A Z I M M E R , P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y C L A I R E S P O L L E N ; T E D + C H E L S E A C AVA N A U G H ; A D O B E S T O C K

While all that produce is fresh and abundant, we’ll show you how to incorporate it into delicious drinks, dinners, and, yes, desserts.

TRY TELLING OUR FARMERS IT ISN’T REAL MILK. All the goodness of real milk, just without the lactose.

©McNeil Nutritionals, LLC 2020

100% real milk, no lactose.

Yo u r W o r d s

Who is your dream dinnerparty guest, and why?

Ina Garten. I’d make her roasted chicken and vegetables and tell her she’s an inspiration. @ANELA.MARIANNE

Ellen DeGeneres.

She is hilarious but also positive, kind, and inspiring. Those are the people who help make the world a better place.

Agatha Christie.

I am constantly surprised by the endings of her books, and I want to know how she crafted them.

NANCY SPARAPANI, MILWAUKEE

Tom Petty, George Harrison, and Elvis.

The stories they could tell—not to mention the jam session!

MICHELLE CALLAHAN, SYRACUSE, NEW YORK

Zach Galifianakis, hands down. “ I ’ D H OST SA LVA D O R DA L Í . I LOV E H I S WO R K , A N D I T WO U L D B E A N I N C R E D I B L E E X P E R I E N C E TO AS K A B O U T H I S I D E AS.” @ FO O DS _ BY _ M A RTA

# R S L OV E

@KATIEHUMBER

Maya Angelou was the most fascinating and multitalented woman who ever lived. I would love to introduce her to my daughter, Maya!

ALISON EIDMAN, STRONG CITY, KANSAS

@DIVERKELLER

I would have Bill and Melinda Gates over to discuss their foundation and how they decide who to help. They change lives for the better.

STEPHANIE ZWIRN, INVER GROVE HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA

Ruth Bader Ginsburg. She’s always been an example of female empowerment. @MS.CAL_DEB

Coco Chanel.

Love her spirit. @GODDESSDOMESTIC

For sharing this photo with us, @foods_by_marta will receive our new special edition, The Power of Less. If you want your picture to be considered, tag photos on Instagram with #rslove.

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My grandparents, all of whom died before I was born.

I’d ask what my parents were like when they were young and how they became the people I love.

VERA DAUFFENBACH, WASHINGTON, D.C.

Barack and Michelle Obama— but if they’re busy, I would choose my sons. They love to prepare and eat good food, they can talk about politics, literature, theater, and sports, and they always, always make me laugh and brighten my day.

Eleanor Roosevelt.

Every few years, I discover yet another quote of hers that strikes a chord with me, and I would love to hear her thoughts in a modern context.

KAREN GORGONZOLA, HONEY BROOK, PENNSYLVANIA

SARAH MOORE, MONROE, NORTH CAROLINA

Martin Luther King.

His message is so powerful and selfless.

We all could learn so much from this man.

Paul McCartney.

My childhood idol has not lost his sense of self despite fame. It would be intriguing to have his best idea for a meatless dinner!

Tom Hanks.

My husband and I bumped into him at the Art Institute of Chicago one summer but were so starstruck we couldn’t speak!

Since then, our family has often jokingly thought of interesting things to ask this screen legend.

ROZ MORRIS, BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA

LISA PAULUS, NEW LENOX, ILLINOIS

@MARYKUSIEK

H E A D S H O T C O U R T E S Y O F S U S I E B U B O LT Z

Stevie Nicks.

Her voice is so unique. I would love to hear her stories about Fleetwood Mac, but more so about the inspiration behind her solo career. She has been my favorite singer for as long as I can remember.

CHRISTIE KOVARIK, SPOKANE, WASHINGTON

My mother. I could serve mac and cheese and she’d be thrilled. All that mattered to her was that it was something to eat, and that she was with me. @MARROY13

Reader of the Month

S U S I E B U B O LT Z , 32 O P T O M E T R I ST MINNEAPOLIS

Who is your dream dinnerparty guest, and why?

My dog—but with the ability to talk.

Home is where…

The tiny, fluffy dog is.

Favorite chore: Laundry (except for the part where you have to put all the clothes away).

Most organized part of your life: My inbox. No message left unread!

Least organized part of your life: The freezer. Is it even possible to keep it organized?

What’s your “me” time?

Monthly massages.

What’s your “meh” time?

Taking down the Christmas decorations.

What’s always in your bag?

I am currently pregnant and have major fruit cravings—so clementines and apples!

Next Question FILL IN THE BL ANK: HOME IS WHERE… Send an email to yourwords@realsimple.com and let us know your answer to this question. Your response could appear on these pages.

J U LY 2 02 0 R E A L S I M P L E

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My Simple Realization

“Good Things Are Ahead” O N T H E E V E O F A M I L E S T O N E B I R T H D AY, K R I S T E N M E I N Z E R L E A R N E D T H E B E S T I S Y E T T O C O M E , W I T H T H E H E L P O F A L O O K I N G - F O R W A R D L I S T.

I was for the most part incredibly happy. I felt good about the life I’d created for myself. But as I approached my 30th birthday, I wanted to be prepared for the worst. I had friends who, on their 30th birthdays, were overcome with an enormous sense of sadness, friends who said they realized they weren’t where they thought they’d be at that point in their lives. What if I woke up the morning of my 30th birthday and felt the same way?

And so I created a 30th-birthday first aid kit. The kit consisted of a long list of things I considered accomplishments—from paying my way through college to saving up a proper emergency fund. It included all the places I’d lived, all the places I’d traveled to, and all the jobs I’d held. It also included less tangible things, like the joy I felt about my wide and deep circle of friends, and the work I’d done for my own health.

1 2 R E A L S I M P L E J U LY 2 02 0

After compiling my list, I proudly told my friend Linda about it.

But rather than applaud my efforts, she looked at me quizzically.

“Kristen,” she said. “Your list is fine and good. But instead of looking backward, what would happen if you looked forward?

I imagine that a list of the amazing things you’ll do after you turn 30 will be a lot longer than the list you already made.”

I got to work listing places I would visit, financial milestones I would reach, and books I would read. I dreamed big, picturing myself walking around the markets of Thailand. I also dreamed of things I couldn’t quite picture, like having a job I was passionate about. The list served as an excuse to learn more about everything that piqued my interest—from classic movies to gardening.

My looking-forward list reminded me of the importance of novelty.

When we’re living our day-in, day-out lives, it’s easy to fall into a rut. That comfortable rut can keep us from growing and experiencing a genuine sense of surprise in the world. In writing out my list, I realized nearly all of it consisted of new experiences, which came with the potential for many surprises. What’s more, my list instilled in me a sense of anticipation, one of my very favorite emotional states.

By writing a list for the future, we say, “Yes, there will be a future.” We say, “There are good things ahead.” We proclaim, “There’s a lot to live for, and I’m excited about those things.”

FROM HOW TO BE FINE: WHAT WE LEARNED FROM LIVING BY THE RULES OF 50 SELF-HELP BOOKS BY JOLENTA GREENBERG AND KRISTEN MEINZER. COPYRIGHT © BY JOLENTA GREENBERG AND KRISTEN MEINZER. REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF WILLIAM MORROW, AN IMPRINT OF HARPERCOLLINS PUBLISHERS.

I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y S A N N Y VA N L O O N / S H O P A R O U N D

W H E N I WA S 2 9 ,

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E V E RY T H I N G O U R E D I T O R S A R E B U Z Z I N G A B O U T T H I S M O N T H

Wash Day Wonders E L E VAT E T H E E V E RY D AY W I T H T H E S E G O O D - L O O K I N G L A U N D RY S U P P L I E S .

THE Y’LL TURN A MUNDANE CHORE INTO A T A S K Y O U A C T U A L LY E N J O Y.

P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y C AT D A S H

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Photograph by Johnny Miller

J U LY 2 02 0 R E A L S I M P L E

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W H AT W E LO V E

The on-trend terrazzo pattern camouflages spots and stains.

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1 F L AT- O U T FAVO R I T E

2 S TAT U S U P DAT E

Keep track of whether a load is clean or dirty with this handy flippable sign.

TO BUY: Hearth & Hand with Magnolia Clean/Dirty Reversible Sign, $13; target.com.

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5 BINS FOR THE WIN 3 WRINKLE BUSTER S

Toss these wool dryer balls in with your next load to smooth out creases and cut drying time by up to 25 percent.

TO BUY: Five Two Wool Dryer Balls, $20 for 3; food52.com.

4 WA S H E R D E C O D E R

It’s a cute poster—that also translates all those label hieroglyphics. TO BUY: Laundry Room Symbols Instant Download Print, $6; pennyandhorse.etsy.com.

These sturdy, collapsible bags have snap-on labels you can write on with chalk to make sorting a cinch.

TO BUY: Uashmama Modular Laundry Bags, $79 each; food52.com.

6 STE AM IN ST YLE

Small enough for travel, mighty enough for every day, this steamer heats up in 30 seconds. TO BUY: Cirrus No. 2 Steamer, $130; steamery.us.

7 L O W P RO F I L E

This steel-frame ironing board is compact (less than 30 inches long) and has a hook for easy hanging.

TO BUY: Jäll Tabletop Ironing Board, $6; ikea-usa.com.

8 H AU T E H A M P E R

A streamlined take on the standard-issue laundry basket brings a little chicness to chore day.

TO BUY: Small Laundry Basket, $30; us.hay.com.

P R O D U C T I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U FA C T U R E R S

This pad is comfy underfoot, waterproof, antislip, and super quick to clean. TO BUY: Terrazzo Vinyl Mat, from $115; aleadesignstudio.etsy.com.

ECZEMA: UNDER CONTROL.

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•

Fast itch relief

• In clinical trials at 16 weeks, 37% of adults and 24% of teens (ages 12-17) saw clear or almost clear skin vs 9% and 2% not on DUPIXENT. • And 38% of adults and 37% of teens (ages 12-17) had significantly less itch vs 11% and 5% not on DUPIXENT.

TALK TO YOUR ECZEMA SPECIALIST AND VISIT DUPIXENT.COM OR CALL 1-844-DUPIXENT (1-844-387-4936) INDICATION DUPIXENT is a prescription medicine used to treat people 12 years of age and older with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) that is not well controlled with prescription therapies used on the skin (topical), or who cannot use topical therapies.

DUPIXENT can be used with or without topical corticosteroids. It is not known if DUPIXENT is safe and effective in children with atopic dermatitis under 12 years of age.

instructed by your healthcare provider.

This may cause other symptoms that were controlled by the corticosteroid medicine to come back; are scheduled to receive any vaccinations. You should not receive a “live vaccine” if you are treated with DUPIXENT; are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether DUPIXENT will harm your unborn baby; are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known whether DUPIXENT passes into your breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION all the medicines you take, including Do not use if you are allergic to prescription and over-the-counter dupilumab or to any of the ingredients medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements. If you are taking asthma in DUPIXENT. medicines, do not change or stop your Before using DUPIXENT, tell your asthma medicine without talking to healthcare provider about all your your healthcare provider. medical conditions, including if you: have eye problems; have a parasitic DUPIXENT can cause serious side (helminth) infection; are taking oral, effects, including: topical, or inhaled corticosteroid • Allergic reactions (hypersensitivity), medicines. Do not stop taking your including a severe reaction known corticosteroid medicines unless as anaphylaxis. Stop using DUPIXENT

and tell your healthcare provider or get emergency help right away if you get any of the following symptoms: breathing problems, fever, general ill feeling, swollen lymph nodes, swelling of the face, mouth and tongue, hives, itching, fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded (low blood pressure), joint pain, or skin rash.

• Eye problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new or worsening eye problems, including eye pain or changes in vision.

to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Use DUPIXENT exactly as prescribed.

DUPIXENT is an injection given under the skin (subcutaneous injection). If your healthcare provider decides that you or a caregiver can give DUPIXENT injections, you or your caregiver should receive training on the right way to prepare and inject DUPIXENT. Do not try to inject DUPIXENT until you have been shown the right way by your healthcare provider. In children 12 years of age and older, it is recommended that DUPIXENT be administered by or under supervision of an adult.

The most common side effects in patients with atopic dermatitis include injection site reactions, eye and eyelid inflammation, including redness, swelling and itching, and cold Please see Brief Summary on next sores in your mouth or on your lips. page.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of DUPIXENT. © 2019 Sanofi and Regeneron Call your doctor for medical advice Pharmaceuticals, Inc. about side effects. You are encouraged All Rights Reserved. DUP.19.09.0036

YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR AS LITTLE AS A $0 COPAY*

*Limitations apply. Visit DUPIXENT.com for full program terms.

Brief Summary of Important Patient Information about DUPIXENT® (dupilumab) Rx Only (DU-pix’-ent) injection, for subcutaneous use What is DUPIXENT? • DUPIXENT is a prescription medicine used: – to treat people aged 12 years and older with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) that is not well controlled with prescription therapies used on the skin (topical), or who cannot use topical therapies. DUPIXENT can be used with or without topical corticosteroids.

• DUPIXENT works by blocking two proteins that contribute to a type of inflammation that plays a major role in atopic dermatitis.

• It is not known if DUPIXENT is safe and effective in children with atopic dermatitis under 12 years of age.

Who should not use DUPIXENT? Do not use DUPIXENT if you are allergic to dupilumab or to any of the ingredients in DUPIXENT. See the end of this summary of information for a complete list of ingredients in DUPIXENT. What should I tell my healthcare provider before using DUPIXENT? Before using DUPIXENT, tell your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions, including if you: • have eye problems • have a parasitic (helminth) infection • are taking oral, topical, or inhaled corticosteroid medicines. Do not stop taking your corticosteroid medicines unless instructed by your healthcare provider. This may cause other symptoms that were controlled by the corticosteroid medicine to come back.

• are scheduled to receive any vaccinations. You should not receive a “live vaccine” if you are treated with DUPIXENT. • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known whether DUPIXENT will harm your unborn baby.

Pregnancy Registry. There is a pregnancy registry for women who take DUPIXENT during pregnancy. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about your health and your baby’s health. You can talk to your healthcare provider or contact 1-877-311-8972 or go to https://mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/ dupixent/ to enroll in this registry or get more information.

• are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known whether DUPIXENT passes into your breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

If you have asthma and are taking asthma medicines, do not change or stop your asthma medicine without talking to your healthcare provider.

How should I use DUPIXENT? • See the detailed “Instructions for Use” that comes with DUPIXENT for information on how to prepare and inject DUPIXENT and how to properly store and throw away (dispose of) used DUPIXENT pre-filled syringes.

• Use DUPIXENT exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

• DUPIXENT comes as a single-dose pre-filled syringe with needle shield.

• DUPIXENT is given as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous injection).

• If your healthcare provider decides that you or a caregiver can give the injections of DUPIXENT, you or your caregiver should receive training on the right way to prepare and inject DUPIXENT. Do not try to inject DUPIXENT until you have been shown the right way by your healthcare provider. In children 12 years of age and older, it is recommended that DUPIXENT be administered by or under supervision of an adult.

• If you miss a dose of DUPIXENT, give the injection within 7 days from the missed dose, then continue with the original schedule. If the missed dose is not given within 7 days, wait until the next scheduled dose to give your DUPIXENT injection.

• If you inject more DUPIXENT than prescribed, call your healthcare provider right away.

• Your healthcare provider may prescribe other medicines to use with DUPIXENT. Use the other prescribed medicines exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to.

What are the possible side effects of DUPIXENT? DUPIXENT can cause serious side effects, including: • Allergic reactions (hypersensitivity), including a severe reaction known as anaphylaxis. Stop using DUPIXENT and tell your healthcare provider or get emergency help right away if you get any of the following symptoms: breathing problems, fever, general ill feeling, swollen lymph nodes, swelling of the face, mouth and tongue, hives, itching, fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded (low blood pressure), joint pain, or skin rash.

• Eye problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new or worsening eye problems, including eye pain or changes in vision.

The most common side effects of DUPIXENT include: injection site reactions, eye and eyelid inflammation, including redness, swelling and itching, and cold sores in your mouth or on your lips. Eye and eyelid inflammation, including redness, swelling and itching have been seen in patients who have atopic dermatitis. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

These are not all of the possible side effects of DUPIXENT. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

General information about the safe and effective use of DUPIXENT. Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use DUPIXENT for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give DUPIXENT to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them.

This is a summary of the most important information about DUPIXENT for this use.

If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for more information about DUPIXENT that is written for healthcare professionals.

For more information about DUPIXENT, go to www.DUPIXENT.com or call 1-844-DUPIXENT (1-844-387-4936) What are the ingredients in DUPIXENT? Active ingredient: dupilumab Inactive ingredients: L-arginine hydrochloride, L-histidine, polysorbate 80, sodium acetate, sucrose, and water for injection Manufactured by: Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, NY 10591 U.S. License # 1760; Marketed by sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC, (Bridgewater, NJ 08807) and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Tarrytown, NY 10591) DUPIXENT is a registered trademark of Sanofi Biotechnology / ©2019 Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. / sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC. All rights reserved.

Issue Date: June 2019

DUP.19.08.0101

The Short List

7 Seriously Engrossing Beach Reads STA K E O U T YO U R S Q UA R E O F S A N D A N D I M M E R S E YO U R S E L F I N O N E O F T H E S E A L L - T I M E FA V O R I T E B O O K S O F R E A L S I M P L E E D I T O R S .

2 0 R E A L S I M P L E J U LY 2 02 0

W H AT W E LO V E

A Marriage Story

Historical Romance Chinese legend says an invisible red string binds each person to the one they’re destined to marry. Cecily Wong’s Diamond Head follows the journey of three generations of the Leong family, from China to Hawaii, as they discover how much of their story is left to fate.

O P P O S I T E PA G E : P R O P S B Y A S T R I D C H A S T K A F O R H E L L O A R T I S T S ; T H I S PA G E : I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F P U B L I S H E R S

STEPHANIE SISCO, HOME DIRECTOR

Striving and Intrigue In Imbolo Mbue’s Behold the Dreamers, immigrant couple Jende and Neni hustle to raise their young son in “the center of the world”—New York City— as their lives get tangled up in the unhappy marriage of a wealthy investment banker. The plot is packed and fast-paced, and the writing is funny (there’s an ode to shopping at T.J. Maxx, and I’ve never felt more seen) and heartbreaking, just the way I want it.

RORY EVANS, EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Fates and Furies will hook you immediately— Lauren Groff’s writing is so good. The novel gives you a front-row seat to a marriage in which the spouses have radically different interpretations of every interaction.

It’s one big voyeuristic, twisted tale of character development you won’t be able to put down.

BETTY GOLD, SENIOR DIGITAL FOOD EDITOR

The Power by Naomi Alderman creates a gripping alternate reality where women discover their ability to administer deadly electric shocks.

As knowledge of this power spreads, it upends the foundations of every society in the world.

COURTENAY SMITH, CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Zombie Hottie Warm Bodies is the most beautiful zombie apocalypse story you’ll ever read. Isaac Marion’s novel centers on a mentally astute zombie who can experience people’s memories when he eats their brains. R falls in love with a human, and in the process becomes more human himself.

HANA HONG, ASSOCIATE DIGITAL EDITOR

Puppy Love In Lily and the Octopus, Steven Rowley describes the companionship between struggling writer Ted and his 12-year-old dog, Lily. It’s a peculiar story—Lily fills Ted in on everything from her daily aches to her celebrity crushes—but their love is fierce and familiar.

RACHEL SYLVESTER, SENIOR EDITOR

P h o t o g r a p h b y Te d + C h e l s e a C a v a n a u g h

Electrifying Tale

Sweeping Epic Min Jin Lee’s Pachinko, about four generations of a Korean family that immigrated to Japan, is both the longest book I’ve read in years and the one I didn’t want to end.

Pachinko, a pinball-esque slot machine game that’s addictively popular in Japan, becomes a family business for one character.

But it’s really a metaphor for the book’s ricochet between despair and hope, and for Lee’s choice to tell the story from multiple perspectives, which she does deftly.

LIZ VACCARIELLO, EDITOR IN CHIEF

For more book recommendations, visit realsimple.com/ newbooks.

J U LY 2 02 0 R E A L S I M P L E

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Prett y Smar t

Dress Up Your Lips P LU S S E V E N OT H E R B E AU T Y B U YS TO S I M P L I F Y YO U R RO U T I N E

By Lisa D eSantis

2 2 R E A L S I M P L E J U LY 2 02 0

P R O PS BY AST R I D C H AST K A FO R H E L LO A RT I STS

1 Rouge Hermès What’s that saying? Give a woman the right lipstick and she can conquer the world?

Well, there’s no going wrong with these beauties. The French fashion label—known for its luxe leather goods—launched its first makeup collection, with 24 lip lacquers. Choose from satin and matte finishes or a sheer balm, all housed in chic, refillable tubes. TO BUY: $67 each; hermes.com.

P h o t o g r a p h b y Te d + C h e l s e a C a v a n a u g h

W H AT W E LO V E

5 LINER MADE E ASY

Guide Beauty Eyeliner Duo Created by a makeup artist with Parkinson’s, this tool offers a precision tip for more control. Apply with ease, without tugging or smudging. TO BUY: $50; guidebeauty.com.

2

7 2 POLISH PEN

6

Candy Coat Stix If you can write with a pencil, you can paint your own nails, thanks to this handy polish pen. Pop off the cap, click until pigment fills the bristles, then start swiping with the precision of a pro. Here’s to no more spills!

TO BUY: $8; lovecandycoat.com.

S M E A R S B Y B R I A N H E N N ; P R O D U C T I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U FA C T U R E R S

Drunk Elephant Sweet Pitti Deodorant Cream This formula taps arrowroot powder and mandelic acid instead of aluminum, so it’s gentle on underarms but will kill odor-causing bacteria. TO BUY: $16; sephora.com.

3

7 HAND HELPER

3 M U LT I TA S K I N G DUO

Wander Beauty Double Date Lip and Cheek Low-maintenance is the name of the game with this twofer: Dab the pigment (pink or coral) onto eyes, face, and lips. For a tint-free glow, use just the clear balm. TO BUY: $22; wanderbeauty.com.

Perricone MD Cold Plasma Plus+ Hand Therapy Much like your face, your hands can show signs of aging. This moisturizing cream smooths and treats crepey skin and discoloration.

TO BUY: $29; perriconemd.com.

4

This cream has a subtly sweet almond scent.

5

8 EYE BRIGHTENER

4 SMO OTHING S C RU B

Olay Exfoliating Face & Body Powder Add water to the granules to form a lather, then scrub from head to toe to soften your skin (especially dry patches on knees and elbows). TO BUY: $8; at drugstores.

6 CLEAN DEOD OR ANT

8

L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Radiant Concealer Here to save your mornings is this illuminating perfector that lightly hydrates and won’t settle into lines.

Because who gets a full eight hours of shuteye these days? In 16 shades. TO BUY: $10; walmart.com.

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W H AT W E LO V E

What are the differences between injectables?

There are two main types of shots: wrinkle reducers and dermal fillers.

“Wrinkle reducers, also known as neuromodulators and neurotoxins, relax the muscles and prevent folding of the skin,” says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeuveau are all FDA-approved brands, and they’re most often used around the eyes, on the forehead and jawline, and between the eyebrows.

Fillers—Restylane, Juvéderm, Belotero, Radiesse, and Sculptra— “volumize and plump the skin, similar to how air inflates a flat tire,” Zeichner says. They’re commonly used on lips, cheeks, undereye troughs, temples, and hands. Unlike wrinkle reducers, which have to wear off, certain fillers are reversible—an enzyme can be injected to undo the effect.

How long do results last?

Is It Worth a Shot?

C A N I N J E C T A B L E S R E A L LY M A K E Y O U L O O K Y O U N G E R ?

HERE ARE ANSWERS TO ALL OUR NEEDLING QUESTIONS ABOUT WRINKLE REDUCERS AND FILLERS.

By Heather Muir Maffei

24 R E A L S I M P L E J U LY 2 02 0

Wrinkle reducers last about three to five months, says Dendy Engelman, MD, a surgeon at Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in New York City.

Anecdotal evidence suggests they may wear off more quickly in summer because people sweat more and may be more active, which can put additional strain on muscles. Fillers can last from six months to several years.

Illustration by Babeth Lafon

How much does it cost?

At what age should I start?

“There are 22-year-olds who need stuff and 41-year-olds who don’t,” Engelman says, pointing out that genetics, ethnicity, and lifestyle all affect how we age. Think of taking care of your skin as you would a car, she advises—it’s about maintaining, not correcting. “If we start at the tiniest line and maintain it, that’s how one ages like J.Lo,” she says.

As Zeichner sees it, “the best time is when lines from facial expressions stick around when your face is at rest.

That could be a different age for everyone, but that’s when you can fully get rid of them and prevent new ones from forming.”

While it’s never too late, you do need to manage expectations: Deeply etched lines are harder to treat but can be improved, Zeichner says. Ask your doctor how to get the best bang for your buck: “Botox alone might not do the job when it comes to deep lines,” Zeichner notes. “Lasers or fillers may be a better choice.”

How much does it hurt?

“The physical pain is minimal—it’s just a quick pinch,” Engelman says. “The diameter of the needle is smaller than that of a hair. The issue is more a fear of needles.” Applying numbing cream or icing the area beforehand can help ease pain and minimize bruising, she says. “I talk to my patients to distract them and use a vibrating tool elsewhere to trick the nerves.”

For wrinkle reducers, you generally pay by the unit, and each unit costs about $15 to $30. Zeichner typically uses 20 to 25 units for most “11” lines— those two vertical creases between the eyebrows. “It’s not a more-is-better game,” Engelman stresses. She tends to use about 6 to 12 units in crow’s-feet, “a great place for someone to start, since it’s one of the first places to show signs of aging, and it really opens up your eyes.” Fillers are generally more expensive—around $600 to $1,200 per syringe—but they last longer, Zeichner says.

Think of taking care of your skin as you would a car—it’s about maintaining, not correcting.

How long does the procedure take—and how invasive is it?

You could knock this out at lunchtime.

From start to finish, it takes about 30 minutes (25 of which are spent prepping the skin with numbing cream or ice), Zeichner says. “Redness should go away in 10 minutes and you can return to work, but I tell patients to wait a few hours before lying down,” he says. If you get bruising (which is more common with fillers), Engelman recommends a pure-pigment concealer, like ones from Dermablend.

It takes about two weeks for results to be fully visible and for any bruising to go away, so keep that in mind if you’re doing the procedure for an event—like that eat-your-heart-out high school reunion.

Is there anything I should or shouldn’t do before getting injected?

To minimize bruising and bleeding, avoid vitamin E, fish oil, ginkgo supplements, aspirin, and other NSAIDs (acetaminophen is OK) for 10 days before your appointment, Zeichner says. Though research remains scant, Engelman recommends her patients take arnica montana tablets the day before the procedure to help reduce bruising.

Will I look frozen?

Nonverbal communication—whether it’s conveying love to your kid from the audience on talent night or shooting your husband a don’t-you-dare look—is important, and not something you want taken away by too much injectable. Get recommendations for a good derm or plastic surgeon. “Work with someone who has a light, minimal aesthetic,” Engelman says. Or as Zeichner puts it, “you wouldn’t go from brunette to blonde overnight— you’d get highlights.”

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W H AT W E LO V E

R o a d Te s t

Hair Removers W H E T H E R YO U S H AV E , P LU C K , O R WA X , T H E G O A L I S A S M O OT H F I N I S H . W E T E ST E D 21 P RO D U C T S T O F I N D T H E B E ST H E A D -T O -T O E F U Z Z F I G H T E R S.

By Anneke Knot

There is Nothing a

Child

ROAD TE ST

B E S T E P I L AT O R

BEST R A ZOR

B E S T D E P I L AT O RY

Braun Silk-épil 9 Flex Epilator This tool houses 40 little tweezers that move in a (pain-free!) blur to grip and remove hair.

Results can last up to four weeks. TO BUY: $180; amazon.com.

Venus Colorblocked Razor These color-coded razors give shaving a major upgrade. The three hues differentiate each type of shave: Coral contains a head infused with Olay body butter for a smooth swipe, teal offers extra lubrication for sensitive skin, and purple features a tiny comb that guides hair to the blade.

TO BUY: $13 each; walgreens.com.

Glee The Body Hair Removal Cream

BEST BL ADE

Flamingo Body Wax Kit Double-sided strips pull hair from the root; post-care cloths prevent ingrowns. Better yet, the kit requires no heat— just open and use.

TO BUY: $10; target.com.

Joey Healy Dermablade Grooming Trio This is a game changer for peach fuzz and a lady ’stache: Just hold skin taut and glide the blade. TO BUY: $18; joeyhealy.com.

26 R E A L S I M P L E J U LY 2 02 0

Tweezerman Rose Gold Point Tweezer When natural light hits and you spot a stray brow or chin barb, pull this baby from your purse. The tip is super precise. TO BUY: $24; tweezerman.com.

P R O D U C T I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U FA C T U R E R S

Wear for five minutes, then rinse for stubblefree skin. Bonus: It smells like honeydew.

TO BUY: $9; walmart.com.

B E S T AT- H O M E WA X BEST T WEEZER S

Who Stutters Cannot Do!

www.StutteringHelp.org 800-992-9392

THE

STUTTERING FOUNDATION

®

W H AT W E LO V E

R o a d Te s t

BBQ MVPs W E TA ST E -T E ST E D M O R E T H A N 3 0 C L A S S I C C O O KO U T F I X I N G S T O F I N D T H E M U S T - H A V E S F O R Y O U R S U M M E R PA R T I E S .

P R O PS BY AST R I D C H AST K A FO R H E L LO A RT I STS

By Phoebe Fr y

P h o t o g r a p h b y Te d + C h e l s e a C a v a n a u g h

REAL SIMPLE

29

W H AT W E LO V E

ROAD TE ST

BEST BUN

BEST HOT D O G

Applegate Organics Uncured Beef Hot Dog Made with 100 percent grassfed beef and nicely seasoned with paprika and cayenne, these robust dogs will stand up to all your favorite toppings.

TO BUY: $7 for 10 oz.; at grocery stores.

King’s Hawaiian Hot Dog Buns Buttery and downright irresistible, these slightly sweet rolls play well with savory fillings. (And they even stay soft when grilled!)

TO BUY: $4 for 12 oz.; at grocery stores.

BEST BAKED BE ANS

Amy’s Organic Vegetarian Baked Beans Some varieties are cloying sugar bombs. Not this one.

We inhaled these creamy white beans, simmered in a luscious tomato sauce.

TO BUY: $3.80 for 15 oz.; at grocery stores.

B E S T M U S TA R D

Gulden’s Spicy Brown Mustard Heat up your burgers and dogs with a squirt of this bold condiment. Its earthy depth and punchy flavor make cookout mainstays craveworthy. TO BUY: $1.50 for 12 oz.; at grocery stores.

3 0 R E A L S I M P L E J U LY 2 02 0

Kettle Brand Sea Salt Potato Chips These satisfyingly salty chips are sliced a bit thicker than others we tried and provide maximum crunch.

You might want to buy two bags—they’ll go fast.

TO BUY: $3.50 for 8.5 oz.; at grocery stores.

BEST VEGGIE D O G

Field Roast Frankfurters This juicy, well-spiced option impressed vegetarian and omnivore tasters alike.

We also appreciated its recognizable ingredient list.

TO BUY: $6 for 16 oz.; at grocery stores.

P R O D U C T I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U FA C T U R E R S

B E S T P O TAT O C H I P S

JUST AS MUCH I S SA I D O N T H E PL AT ES AS OVER THEM.

MADE WITH MILK FROM GRASS-FED COWS T H AT G R A Z E O N T H E LUS H PA ST U RES O F I RE L A N D.

W H AT W E LO V E

Quick Ideas 1 S U M M E R A M B RO S I A

The Staple

Marshmallows Sure, they’re little doses of nostalgia and essential on a s’more. But these puffs are also about as close to meringue in a bag as you can get.

And when you think of them as a shortcut to sophistication, it’s easy to upgrade old standbys.

Your nana’s ambrosia is suddenly chic when fresh fruit subs in for canned mandarins.

Petite chocolate pies are made luxe with a dollop of Nutella. Even crispy treats go sweet-andsavory if you add popcorn and pretzels.

Stir together 16 oz. halved strawberries and 1 cup each nectarine slices, blueberries, and blackberries in a large bowl. Stir in 1 cup pitted and halved cherries, 3 Tbsp. lime juice, and 2 Tbsp. honey. Fold in 1 1/2 cups marshmallows (quartered with scissors) and 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh mint. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes.

2 MINI NUTELL A PIES

Cut 12 circles from 1 refrigerated 10-inch piecrust, using a 3-inch round cutter.

Transfer circles to a lightly greased 12-cup mini muffin pan. Fill each circle with 1 Tbsp. Nutella. Bake at 450°F until crusts are light golden, 6 minutes. Top each with 1 Tbsp. mini marshmallows, pushing them gently into Nutella.

Bake until marshmallows are toasted, 4 minutes.

3 POPCORN BAR S

Melt 5 Tbsp. unsalted butter in a large saucepan. Add 1 (10 oz.) pkg. mini marshmallows, reserving 1 cup.

Cook until melted. Remove from heat and fold in 9 cups popped salted popcorn, 1 cup mini pretzel twists, 3/4 cup chopped peanuts, and reserved marshmallows. Press into a greased 13-by-9-inch baking dish.

Sprinkle with 1/4 cup chopped peanuts. Let set until firm.

Recipes by Anna Theoktisto

32 R E A L S I M P L E J U LY 2 02 0

Photograph by Caitlin Bensel

Clever Items L I T T L E H E L P E R S TO M A K E YO U R L I F E E A S I E R

By Brandi Broxson

1 SO G-FREE TOWEL

Crafted from recycled water bottles, this beach essential dries as much as four times faster than a cotton towel and rolls up smaller than your average burrito. TO BUY: HalfDay Towel, $40; takeahalfday.com.

3 4 R E A L S I M P L E J U LY 2 02 0

W H AT W E LO V E

When the soap is gone, there’s a toy inside.

3 G R I L L M U LT I TA S K E R

2 H I D D E N C H A RG E R

Eliminate tangled wires with this 36-inch cord that retracts when not in use (the prongs snap flat too). Works for phones and tablets.

TO BUY: Bibicharger, $20; bibicord.com.

Like a Swiss Army knife but for grilling, this tool has a spatula, fork, knife, meat tenderizer, and—most importantly—bottle opener.

TO BUY: Flipfork 5-in-1 Boss, $20; myflipfork.com.

4 S OA P W I T H A P R I Z E

Kids have a built-in incentive to thoroughly wash their hands with this soap: The parabenfree orb hides a toy in its center. TO BUY: Sohp Shop Surprise Suds, $12; sohpshop.com.

6 P R O D U C T I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U FA C T U R E R S

SHOPPING HELPER

5 I N S TA N T G A R D E N

This four-by-eight-foot sheet has embedded seeds so you can plant a speedy organic victory garden.

Unroll onto soil, water, and start growing. TO BUY: Backyard Seedsheet, $100; seedsheets.com.

Clip this onto your grocery cart to hold your drink and corral reusable totes.

At checkout, loop all the bag handles onto it for easier schlepping. TO BUY: Toolaloo, $25; toolaloo.com.

7 C U T E L I T T L E D O L LY

Assemble this mighty mover in minutes, no tools required.

It can hold 250 pounds, and it packs up compactly for storage in your trunk or garage. TO BUY: Dozop Collapsible Dolly, $45; thegrommet.com.

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U N C O M M O N S O L U T I O N S T O E V E RY D AY P R O B L E M S

B LE N D A B ET TE R M ILKS H A KE S O F T E N F I R S T, T H E N S C O O P

Before you bust out the blender, let the ice cream thaw on the counter for 15 minutes.

If you simply can’t wait, microwave the pint for no longer than 10 seconds to create a more scoopable consistency.

BLEND IT ALL TO GETHER

To make one milkshake, fill your blender with three to four scoops of softened ice cream and half a cup of whole milk, says Jackie Cuscuna, coauthor of the cookbook Ample Hills Creamery.

Blend for 15 to 30 seconds, drizzling in more milk if necessary to reach your preferred thickness. The total amount of milk will vary depending on the ice cream’s density, Cuscuna says, but a 1-to-4 milk-to-ice-cream ratio typically results in a thick yet sippable shake.

A M P U P T H E F L AVO R

Add texture with extras like frozen berries, breakfast cereal, chocolate chips, or crushed graham crackers. (Your straw may clog temporarily, but it will be worth it.) Dissolve four tablespoons of malt powder in the milk before blending to make a quintessential diner-style “malted”—if you want a nostalgia trip instead of a milkshake headache.

ST Y L I N G BY CA R R I E PU R C E L L

By Phoebe Fr y

Photograph by Andrew Purcell

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THE REALIST

Things Cooks Know

8 Foods You Should Be Grilling T H I N K B E YO N D B U RG E R S A N D D O G S. THERE’S SO MUCH MORE AN OPEN FL AME IS GOOD FOR.

By Jenna Helwig

PIZZA BREAD Drizzle slices with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and grill until golden on both sides.

For extra zing, rub with garlic after grilling. Serve as is, top with cooked veggies, or tear into croutons for salad.

TOFU Start with pressed firm or extra-firm tofu. Cut into 1/2-inch-thick slabs, brush with olive oil, and cook over high until grill marks appear.

Drizzle with oil and vinegar.

Add herbs, salt, and pepper.

B RO C C O L I Peel stalks and slice them lengthwise so they resemble Broccolini. Grill naked over direct heat, turning occasionally, until tender, 3 to 5 minutes.

Transfer to a platter and dress with olive oil, salt, lemon, and grated Parmesan.

F RU I T Halve and pit stone fruit.

Cut pineapple lengthwise (remove the woody core) and slice watermelon into wedges.

Coat with olive oil or melted butter and grill over medium until tender and charred.

Top with vanilla ice cream.

AVO C A D O Start with a ripe, not mushy, avocado. Halve and pit the fruit, leaving skin on. Cook, flesh side down, over high until grill marks appear, 1 to 2 minutes. To eat as is, spritz with lemon or lime and sprinkle with salt, then spoon out the flesh. Or use it in your favorite guacamole recipe for added smoky flavor.

42 R E A L S I M P L E J U LY 2 02 0

Set up zones on the grill: low heat and high heat.

Shape store-bought or homemade dough into an oval, coat both sides with olive oil, and place over high-heat zone. Grill until bubbles start to form; flip and grill for 30 seconds. Move dough to low-heat zone and quickly add toppings. Cover and cook until cheese is melted, about 10 minutes.

RO M A I N E Cut lettuce head in half vertically and barely trim stem end so leaves stay together.

Dress in a big-flavored vinaigrette, then grill, covered, until charred in places, 2 to 5 minutes. Chop or serve whole.

(This method also works well with napa cabbage.)

CHEESE Well-oiled feta and Halloumi (a semifirm, brined cheese from Cyprus) can go right on the grill over high heat just until charred. Drizzle with more oil and serve on a platter surrounded by crackers and olives for a starter or fruit for dessert. For a real showstopper, place an 8-oz. chunk of provolone in a small greased cast-iron pan on the grates. Close grill lid and cook until bubbly, 3 to 4 minutes. Serve with bread for slathering.

O U R E X P E RT S MARK BITTMAN, AUTHOR OF HOW TO GRILL EVERYTHING MATT MOORE, AUTHOR OF SERIAL GRILLER: GRILLMASTER SECRETS FOR FLAME-COOKED PERFECTION

Illustration by Adam Cruft

It starts here.

The perfect bun. From a Sloppy Joe to a French Dip, your bun is the one ingredient that will make or break your burger, dog, or sandwich.

That’s why our bakers have been working tirelessly — tweaking recipes and adjusting batches to find the perfect indulgent combination of soft texture, subtle sweetness, and pure goodness.

and ends here.

Introducing Brioche Style Buns

naturesownrecipes.com

THE REALIST

Tre n d Wo r t h Tr y i n g

Pleats That Please

1 LU LU S D R E S S

What makes a breezy chiffon sundress feel breezier on hot days? Accordion pleats all the way around the bottom.

TO BUY: Beat of the Music Pleated Midi Dress, $62; lulus.com.

CO M E I N TO T H E FO L D O F T H I S CO O L LO O K, F RO M A N ACCORDION DRESS TO TINY SHELL E ARRINGS.

By Flavia Nunez

1

2 STERLING FOREVER EARRINGS

2 4

A row of shells on delicate dangle earrings dresses up even the simplest blouse.

TO BUY: Scallop Shell Drop Earrings, $90; sterlingforever.com.

3 Z AR A BAG

Get your pleat on with a baby blue bucket bag.

It works with floral dresses in summer and chunky knits come fall. TO BUY: Pleated Bucket Bag, $30; zara.com.

3

4 C O T I D I É S H I RT

From the front, it’s a classic white shirt—but the back has mini pleats that billow to keep you cool. TO BUY: Ada Top, $100; cotidie.com.

5 LO E F F L E R R A N DA L L S H O E S

6 7

6 W H I S T L E S PA N T S

The high, nipped waist elongates any figure, and the box pleats make the legs super roomy. TO BUY: Amenia Culotte, $239; whistles.com.

IT D OESN’T COME O U T I N T H E WA S H

5

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Yes, you can put many pleated items in the machine (read the label first). For best results, wash in cold water on a gentle cycle, then hang to dry.

7 OA K + F O RT S K I RT

This color-block skirt has asymmetrical pleats, so it looks polished and fitted but lets you move comfortably.

TO BUY: Pleated Skirt, $78; oakandfort.com.

P R O D U C T I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U FA C T U R E R S

Wear pleats down to your toes with these gathered floral wedges that look chic with work dresses or white pants. TO BUY: Charley Pleated Knot Espadrille Wedge, $295; loefflerrandall.com.

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Amazon, Alexa, Echo, and all related logos and motion marks are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

VoiceIQ™ Technology is not created by, affiliated with, or supported by Amazon Technologies, Inc.

THE REALIST

How Smart Should Your Home Be? I T C A N B E T O U G H T O K N O W W H E N T O B U Y, W H E N T O H O L D O F F, A N D W H E N T O S AV E Y O U R M O N E Y A LT O G E T H E R . L E T ’ S G O R O O M B Y R O O M A N D TA L K A B O U T W H AT ’ S W O R T H T H E I N V E S T M E N T R I G H T N O W — A N D W H AT ’ S W O R T H W A I T I N G O N .

By Whitson Gordon

I l l u s t r a t i o n b y S a m Ka l d a

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Entryway The Jetsons-style homecoming starts before you even hit the welcome mat. Whether you’re coming in the front door or through the garage, a few smart gadgets can make your life easier—as long as your Wi-Fi signal is strong enough.

D E A D B O LT Pros: The right smart lock can be a

Pros: With a smart doorbell, your phone’s screen shows you who’s at the door—be it the UPS driver or a neighbor. Not only that, but you can talk to visitors when you aren’t home and, thanks to a fish-eye lens, check on your garden while you’re out of town.

Cons: Many smart doorbells require existing doorbell wiring. (If you don’t have wiring set up, you can use a battery-powered doorbell, like Eufy or Amazon’s Ring.) There’s also an ongoing debate about whether we really want cameras plastered everywhere.

Bottom Line: Go for it if you’re looking for added security, but otherwise it’s not a necessity. Call it a “maybe someday” purchase.

Our Pick: Eufy’s video doorbell offers a good balance of price, image quality, and features. TO BUY: Eufy Security Battery-Powered Wireless Video Doorbell, $200; amazon.com.

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GAR AGE D O OR OPENER Pros: Back in the 1970s and ’80s, the remote control garage door opener was the gateway to smart home tech.

Now you can open the garage from your phone, whether you’re in the kitchen or miles away. LiftMaster even has an agreement with Amazon allowing delivery drivers to put packages in your garage. Most importantly, these openers alert you when the door has been opened by someone else.

Cons: If you’ve never done work on your garage door opener before, it might be intimidating to pick a product and set it up. You may need to hire a pro if you’re replacing the opener entirely.

Bottom Line: If you are the forgetful type—or just get peace of mind knowing the garage door is closed— this is a great piece of tech to have.

Our Pick: LiftMaster’s MyQ series includes door openers as well as add-on kits for existing garage doors.

Pro installation is required. TO BUY: LiftMaster WLED Garage Door Opener with MyQ Smart Technology, from $449 with installation; liftmaster.com for dealers.

S P E C I A L T H A N K S T O M A R K S PAT E S , G O O G L E N E S T P R O D U C T M A N A G E R . P R O D U C T I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U FA C T U R E R S

DOORBELL

game changer, letting you open the door without fumbling for your keys.

Some unlock automatically as you arrive home; others unlock via a code or the touch of your finger. You can also create temporary codes to allow your dog walker or mother-in-law in when you aren’t there.

Cons: To enable certain features, you need to integrate most smart locks with a home hub, like Amazon’s Alexa.

While some smart locks connect to the internet via their own Wi-Fi hub, others, like Z-Wave locks, require a separate purchase, like Samsung’s SmartThings hub. Most also require replacing your existing deadbolt, which might not be ideal for renters.

Bottom Line: Once you start unlocking your door by touch, taking out your keys feels archaic and timeconsuming. If you access your front door often, this is well worth the money. Of course, the lock can also go on the back door, or the door from the garage—whatever you use most.

Our Pick: The Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro, a newcomer to the scene, lets you unlock your door in six ways, including via a fingerprint scanner. TO BUY: Ultraloq U-Bolt Pro + WiFi Bridge (shown above), $210; store.u-tec.com.

Alternative Suggestion: If your landlord won’t OK replacing the deadbolt, August’s smart lock is a retrofit option that will work on your existing hardware. TO BUY: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, $250; august.com.

NO TIME FOR WIMPY WI-FI

Living Room People tend to huddle around the television, so there’s a lot of opportunity for smart gadgets here. Smart TVs are now widely available, and you can augment their features with a few other gizmos to create the perfect movie night.

Gadgets are only as good as your Wi-Fi signal: The more smart devices you have, the more robust your Wi-Fi needs to be. “Keep your router out in the open, away from any obstructions,” says Joel Crane, a certified wireless network expert. “If you still experience connection issues, then a home mesh Wi-Fi solution, like Eero, Google Wifi, or Orbi, can fill in the dead spots fairly effortlessly.” In a power outage, some battery-operated devices may still function, though smart features won’t work if your Wi-Fi is down. When the power comes back on, most devices will reconnect automatically (if not, a quick reset should do it).

SOUNDBAR Pros: As TVs have gotten thinner

S T R E A M I N G S E T-T O P B OX Pros: Standalone streaming boxes are usually better than the smart software built into your TV. They’re often faster and easier to navigate, and they continually get software updates for increased efficiency.

Cons: It may be hard to justify the added cost of a box when your TV can already stream your favorite shows.

Plus, you have to figure out an attractive setup (plugging a box into a wallmounted TV can be especially tricky).

You also still have to pay the monthly subscription fee for HBO, Netflix, or other streaming services.

Bottom Line: It’s not an imperative, but a streaming box can enhance your TV-watching experience, especially if your TV’s smart system is slow and clunky—which is often the case with older or lower-cost sets.

Our Pick: If you’re an Apple household, consider the Apple TV for a familiar interface and easy integration with your other devices. Everyone else can try the Roku. TO BUY: Apple TV 4K (shown above), from $179; apple.com. Roku Premiere, $40; roku.com.

and lighter, their speakers have gotten smaller (hence those 70-inch monsters you have to strain to hear).

A soundbar is a compact speaker that raises volume, sharpens sound, and creates more immersive action scenes.

Cons: Soundbars introduce more complexity to your setup. While they’re much simpler to install than a receiver with individual speakers, you may still have to fiddle with cable configurations and settings to get everything working. Plus, unless you have a universal remote, you’re stuck with one more clicker.

Bottom Line: After you try a soundbar, you’ll never go back to relying solely on TV speakers. The clearer dialogue alone makes this a must-have.

Our Pick: Vizio has a huge selection of quality soundbars, ranging from 20-inch models to large, multispeaker surround-sound setups with big subwoofers. TO BUY: SB2020n-G6 20" 2.0 Channel Sound Bar, $70; vizio.com.

S M A RT S H A D E S Pros: If you’re constantly adjusting the blinds to keep the sun from shining in your eyes, motorized shades might be worthwhile. You can set them to open and close on a schedule, or control them with your voice using Alexa or Google Assistant. You can even create a single voice command to turn on the TV and lower the blinds at the same time.

Cons: Smart blinds can get very costly, especially if you need custom sizes and professional installation.

Bottom Line: If your blinds are a pain point in your day, smart shades could be worth the price.

Our Pick: Lutron’s Serena system offers a number of styles and colors, along with custom options. TO BUY: Serena Shades by Lutron (shown above), from $349; serenashades.com.

Alternative Suggestion: Ikea’s Fyrtur shades are more affordable, though they don’t come in as many styles and colors. TO BUY: Fyrtyr Blackout Roller Blind, from $129; ikea-usa.com.

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Kitchen With the exception of watersaving options, the cost of smart kitchen appliances makes them harder to recommend than gadgets in other areas of the home.

R E F R I G E R AT O R Pros: High-end models let you check

FAU C E T Pros: You can turn on a smart faucet with a wave of your hand (helping you wash up without spreading germs to the hardware). You can also use your voice to dispense a certain amount of water, so you can fill a pot without waiting at the sink.

Cons: Some of the highest-end smart faucets can cost about seven times as much as the basic pull-down faucets, and about three times as much as the least expensive hands-free models.

Bottom Line: In this age of germ and water-waste sensitivity, it might be one of the best smart home upgrades you can make.

Our Pick: Kohler’s Setra is the model to beat right now. TO BUY: Setra Touchless Kitchen Faucet with Kohler Konnect, $389; homedepot.com.

the refrigerator contents, even while you’re at the grocery store; glance at your calendar on the door’s touch screen; and control the temperature from your phone (not that you’d ever necessarily need to).

Cons: Smart fridges can be costly— starting at roughly 20 to 30 percent more than regular models. Considering most people don’t upgrade their refrigerators on a whim, that’s a hard sell.

Bottom Line: This should live in the “low priority” category. But if you’re renovating your kitchen and in the market for a fancy fridge, the one you choose may come with a few smart features anyway.

Our Pick: Samsung has a wide variety, from top-of-the-line models with a touch screen to midrange options with basic temperature controls.

TO BUY: 28 Cu. Ft. 4-Door French Door Refrigerator with Touch Screen Family Hub in Tuscan Stainless Steel, $3,899; samsung.com.

P L E A S E S AY A C O M M A N D When your hands are full or your phone is out of reach, voice control really brings smart homes to life. Voice assistants, like Amazon Echo and Google Home, are must-haves for any smart home—and with smaller units available for $50 or less, you can position a few throughout your space.

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R A N G E A N D OV E N Pros: Some models connect to Wi-Fi so you can control them with your phone or voice (imagine preheating the oven from your lounge chair on the back deck). You’ll even get a phone notification when your meal is ready.

Cons: Safety features can limit the convenience of these products. Having to press a button on the oven before you turn it on with your phone sort of defeats the purpose.

Bottom Line: If you do a lot of baking, the Wi-Fi connectivity is pretty useful for preheating—though certainly not necessary if you’re on a tighter budget.

Our Pick: Samsung offers a number of gas and electric ranges with Wi-Fi connectivity. TO BUY: 5.9 Cu. Ft. Freestanding Electric Range with Flex Duo & Dual Door in Stainless Steel, $1,799; samsung.com.

YO U R P H O N E , C O M M A N D C E N T R A L If a TV that requires two remotes can bring you to your knees, you don’t want that frustration multiplied in every room of the house. Apple’s HomeKit, Google Assistant, and Amazon’s Alexa will unify control of third-party products so you can manage dozens of smart devices with your phone, tablet, or voice. Look for your hub’s icon on the packaging (to date, Google Assistant is compatible with thousands of products, while HomeKit connects with over 100 vetted items).

Laundry Room This hardworking space may be small, but it’s ripe for smarter tech and Wi-Fi-enabled shortcuts.

Bedroom Good sleep is practically a status symbol—and a few little splurges can help you rest and restore.

RO B O T VA C U U M Pros: While plenty of robot vacuums

WA S H E R A N D D RY E R Pros: You can start and stop cycles remotely, get notified when the laundry is done, and receive reminders when your appliance needs maintenance (such as filter changes or tub cleaning).

Cons: Upgrading from your current washer and dryer is a $1,000-plus investment, which is rather costly.

Bottom Line: The notifications are convenient, and if you need a new washer and dryer anyhow, many of the newest options have standard smart features. But if your current laundry machines work fine, there’s no need to upgrade—just use Alexa or Google to set a timer instead.

Our Pick: LG is one of the best brands in the laundry sphere, and they have plenty of ThinQ models with Wi-Fi features. TO BUY: 5.2 Cu. Ft. Large Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Front Load Washer TurboWash and 9.0 Cu. Ft. Large Smart Wi-Fi Enabled Electric Dryer w/ TurboSteam, $1,800 each; lg.com.

clean floors, some advanced models come with Wi-Fi, so you can start a cleaning cycle with Alexa and get alerted when the vacuum is stuck or needs its bin emptied. Some can even map your house for more reliable cleaning.

Cons: Wi-Fi-connected models aren’t always as cheap as serviceable competitors, and only some models can do things like clean a specific room on demand.

Bottom Line: Robot vacuums are a godsend, especially if you have kids or pets—and the extra utility you get from the app and voice commands is quite useful when you’re running out the door.

Our Pick: iRobot has a number of Wi-Fi-connected Roomba models, the most high-end of which have automatic dirt disposal. TO BUY: Roomba 675, $300; store.irobot.com.

S M A RT L I G H T B U L B S Pros: Controlling the lights with an app or voice command is great if your switch is on the other side of the room. Color-changing bulbs let you adjust the color temperature too. That means you can have sun-mimicking light for waking up and warmer, sleepfriendly light for reading before bed.

Cons: If you have a lot of light fixtures, these bulbs can get expensive.

Smart switches might be more costeffective—though they require more involved setup.

Bottom Line: If you’re new to a smart home, start here. When coupled with a smart assistant, smart bulbs are incredibly convenient.

Our Pick: Philips’ White Ambiance bulbs have lots of features—including color-temperature adjustment—and great support from Philips. TO BUY: Philips Hue White 2-Bulb Starter Kit, $70; meethue.com.

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Bathroom T H E R M O S TAT Pros: Many thermostats are clunky to program, requiring confounding button-pressing sequences. With a smart thermostat, you can set a daily schedule with just a few taps. Some models even learn your habits over time and adjust themselves when you’re out of the house. Nest says it has saved its customers 10 to 15 percent on their heating and cooling bills.

Cons: Wiring a smart thermostat can be complicated, and depending on your home’s climate control system, some thermostats may not be compatible. You can usually check compatibility with different models online; contact a pro for best results.

Bottom Line: If you’re picky about your thermostat schedule, a smart model is absolutely worth it.

Our Pick: The Nest Thermostat E offers the best balance of cost and convenience, though you may need to step up to the higher-priced Nest Learning Thermostat if your wiring isn’t compatible. Visit store.google.com to find out if the unit will work in your space. TO BUY: Nest Thermostat E, $169; store.google.com.

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Your bathroom may not be the first place you’d think to bring Alexa, but the right tech can make your morning routine more streamlined— and luxurious.

TOILET Pros: Wi-Fi-connected toilets aren’t

S H O W E R C O N T RO L L E R Pros: Smart controllers connect to your plumbing to let you manage water temperature or even start the shower with your voice.

Cons: The controllers can be expensive and usually require professional installation.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a truly deluxe shower setup, a controller like this can be amazing—but the cost is high.

Our Pick: Moen’s 2-outlet controller is easy to use and offers multiple options for different setups. TO BUY: U by Moen Smart Shower Controller (shown above), $460, and Valve, $700; moen.com.

Alternative Suggestion: Kohler’s Alexa-based showerhead may not have temperature controls, but the built-in speaker will at least give you some tunes while you rinse off in your everyday, low-tech shower. TO BUY: Moxie Showerhead + Bluetooth Wireless Speaker (available in September), $179; kohler.com.

exactly ubiquitous yet, but Kohler has one on the way. Right now, “smart” toilets consist of seats with warming functions, automatic lids, and bidets.

Cons: High-tech toilet seats aren’t cheap. They can also be a bit complex to install, and you need an electrical outlet nearby.

Bottom Line: Once you’ve used a high-end bidet, you’ll likely never want to go without one (or worry about hoarding toilet paper).

Our Pick: Toto’s C100 Electronic Bidet Seat is feature-rich without completely breaking the bank.

TO BUY: Toto Washlet C100 (shown above), $610; homedepot.com.

Alternative Suggestion: If your wallet can’t handle the full-suite seat, try a retrofit model for your current toilet. It won’t heat the seat, warm the water, or do your taxes for you, but it’s under $100. TO BUY: Bio Bidet SlimEdge Bidet Attachment, $35; amazon.com.

THE REALIST

2020 Real Simple Home Preview

Design an Oblong, Open-Space Living Room W H E N Y O U D O Y O U R C O N N E C T I N G , R E L A X I N G , A N D D I N I N G I N O N E A R E A , T H E S PA C E N E E D S T O R E A L LY P E R F O R M . D E S I G N E R M A X H U M P H R E Y S H O W S H O W T O P U L L I T O F F.

By Stephanie Sisco

We paired an editor “client” with each Real Simple Home designer to help identif y the goals and challenges within the space. Here’s Max’s collaboration with Leslie Corona.

Go with multiple light sources. The nav y shade offers a sleek twist on an industrial silhouette.

G OA L Max aims to “turn this blank white box into a space with some architectural detail—without breaking the bank” and to make it livable all day long, 365 days a year.

Wallpaper can be pricey. Choose a pattern that works with your paint and use it in small doses, like on a column.

CHALLENGE We often want rooms to do double duty. With an open floor plan, though, it can be tough to define areas meant for different purposes.

5 4 R E A L S I M P L E J U LY 2 02 0

High-back chairs create a visual distinction between zones.

L I V I N G R O O M I M AG E C O U R T E SY O F T H E M A R B U R Y; B A N DA N A : A D O B E STO C K ; P R O D U C T I M AG E S C O U R T E SY O F M A N U FAC T U R E R S . P E M B R O O K C A M B R I C C H A R C OA L G R AY ST R A I G H T STA N DA R D S O FA W I T H T U F T I N G , $ 1 ,0 9 9, B L A I R 1 - L I G H T P O L I S H E D N I C K E L P E N DA N T W I T H N AV Y M E TA L S H A D E , $ 3 8 4 , B E N T L E Y C A P R I B LU E U P H O L ST E R E D A R M C H A I R , $ 5 2 7, A N D C L A I R E G R E Y G I N G H A M WA L L PA P E R , $ 1 . 2 5 P E R S Q. F T. ; H O M E D E P OT.C O M . W I N D O W PA N E P L A I D P I L LO W C OV E R I N N AV Y B L A Z E R P L A I D, $ 1 3 9 ; R E J U V E N AT I O N .C O M . PA I N T: PA I N T E R ’ S W H I T E P P U 1 8 - 8 A N D G R A P H I C C H A R C OA L N 5 0 0 - 6 ; B E H R .C O M FO R I N FO

O U R ME THO D

Nebia by Moen™ Spa Shower

SHOWERING REIMAGINED

™

Introducing Nebia by Moen. It’s the only showerhead that turns each drop into a spa-like experience.

It envelops you with twice the water coverage* and even more pressure than traditional showerheads.

It’s easy to install. And when you order it on homedepot.com/nebia, it’s just as easy to get it delivered.

How refreshing is that?

TM

*When compared to a standard Moen 2.5 gpm. © 2020 Home Depot Product Authority, LLC. All rights reserved.

THE REALIST

Max Humphrey INTERIOR DESIGNER

Leslie Corona S E N I O R A S S O C I AT E HOME EDITOR

For a previous project, Humphrey made a bonus room feel extra cozy by going all in with olive green paint on the walls and built-ins.

A native New Yorker, Leslie is passionate about throw pillows (“I constantly change mine up!”) and wants a space that balances her light and airy style with her husband’s preference for darker hues and chunky furniture.

The Zoned Approach WA N T T O SEE MORE? Visit realsimple.com/ rshome20 for bonus content from this year’s Real Simple Home.

U S E RU G S TO D E F I N E A R E A S The largest rug can anchor the living room setup; another rug, like a durable hide, can distinguish the dining space.

S E L EC T F U R N I T U R E T H AT’ S F L E X I B L E If you don’t use your dining room daily, select versatile pieces that make it functional in other ways (think: a homework station). Try a small sofa on one side of the table for comfortable, bench-style seating.

A D D W O W FA C TO R TO T H E WA L L S Humphrey likes to affordably fake the appearance of wainscoting by using paint. When picking his shades, he often looks to brands’ color-of-the-year winners: “There are so many paints to choose from, and it can get overwhelming. The color-of-the-year options help narrow down the field and make things feel modern.”

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C L O C K W I S E F R O M T O P R I G H T: C H R I S T O P H E R D I B B L E ; C O U R T E S Y O F L E S L I E C O R O N A ; C O U R T E S Y O F M AT T S A R TA I N

Max has designed everything from beach mansions to log cabins to an Airstream trailer.

For the Real Simple Home, he brings his “cowboy high style” to the long, sunny living space. Follow him on Instagram at @maxwhumphrey.

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MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS IN A MODERN WORLD

9 Family Routines to Refresh for Summer R E A DY T O H AV E F U N A N D E M B R A C E P R O P ST Y L I N G BY SA R A H S M A RT

A NEW BEGINNING? HERE ARE LIT TLE R I T U A L S T O H E L P E V E RYO N E F E E L H A P P I E R A N D M O R E C O N N E C T E D.

By Gigi Swanson

Photograph by Johnny Miller

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R E L AT I N G

T H E T H R E E FAVO R I T E WO R D S

in the English language (after “I love you”) might be “June,” “July,” and “August.” And this summer, we could probably all use a few easy, breezy ways to reset the fun of our routines.

Check out the ideas below for making it feel like a brand-new season. Come September, when friends ask how you spent the summer, instead of wondering where the time went you’ll wonder, “Where should I start?”

TO W E LC O M E S U M M E R

Invent a new ritual.

As kids transition from remote learning to summer recess, it can feel like we’re just rolling into a new season rather than celebrating it. Now, more than ever, we need to embrace rituals, says Christine Carter, PhD, a sociologist at the University of California, Berkeley, and the author of The New Adolescence. “Rituals help us feel connected to one another in something larger than ourselves.”

She suggests marking the start of summer by inventing new rites of passage. Did your kids miss out on moving-up ceremonies? Plan a mini grad fest, and ask family members to prepare a few words of wisdom. Got a house of restless teenagers? Toss them some crepe paper and suggest they throw an “un-prom,” complete with a playlist and fancy clothes. Or honor missed birthdays with a sweet “cake-over.” The important thing is to do something meaningful and memorable, Carter says.

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D I N N E RT I M E

Enjoy a weekly picnic.

Have you noticed that beaches, public pools, and state parks are pretty quiet around dinnertime? Off-hours can be the ideal window for an alfresco family hang. The trick to keeping it effortless, Carter says, is planning. “By making all your decisions at once—the day of the week, the time—and committing to making it a regular thing, you limit the energy and hassle that goes into trying to get agreement from everybody each week.” Streamline the food by packing your go-to sandwiches or usual takeout. Once you have the details of your pizza beach picnic squared away, it’s easier to be present with your family and enjoy letting your crew have the run of the place, Carter says.

B E DT I M E

Shift the boundaries.

The days are longer, the nights are shorter, and for many families, getting school-age kids to bed at a reasonable time feels like a longforgotten dream. But Carter says you can maintain your structured evening routine with one tweak: Shift bedtimes one hour later.

If your elementary schooler is usually in bed by 9:30, let summer bedtime be 10:30. The catch is that kids need to sleep 9 to 11 hours for healthy development, so they should sleep in an hour later as well. The extra time makes evening routines feel more relaxed and less rushed. As the first day of school approaches, work your way back to their regular sleep schedule, starting at least two weeks beforehand to give them time to adjust.

B R E A K FA S T

F R O M L E F T: R AY M O N D F O R B E S L L C / S T O C K S Y; M A R T Í S A N S / S T O C K S Y

Upgrade to “breakfiesta.”

Gaby Dalkin, author of What’s Gaby Cooking, offers an easy way to whip up a fresh, festive weekend breakfast taco. Grab any leftover veggies you have, like spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms, and sauté them in some olive oil. Set them aside, then whisk two eggs in the same pan with a bit of olive oil (“for more of a silky feel,” Dalkin says) until they’re cooked through. Fold in the veggies and turn off the heat.

On a separate burner, char a soft tortilla over an open flame for 10 to 20 seconds per side. (Or toast the tortilla in a cast-iron skillet to get it a little brown on both sides.)

Put the tortilla on a dish, lay your soft veggie scramble on top, and add a sprinkle of Parmesan or Cheddar cheese (the fastest way to Dalkin’s heart). Feel free to add avocado, a dollop of pesto, or a handful of arugula.

AF TER WORK

Craft a tangy mocktail.

While “rosé all day” may have been the last decade’s summer slogan, John deBary, creator of Proteau (a nonalcoholic beverage) and author of Drink What You Want, believes it’s time to reimagine the mocktail. “For many, the perception of mocktails is that they’re supersweet, kind of fruity, and not very interesting.” One of his secrets: peppercorns. “Alcohol has a bit of spice, and I use them to re-create that heat.” His go-to mocktail recipe calls for steeping one cup (five or six bags) of dried hibiscus tea in one gallon of filtered water. Add a tablespoon of whole black peppercorns and two sticks of cinnamon (Ceylon, if available). Let it sit in the fridge for at least 10 hours, then strain over ice for a crisp, refreshing drink that tastes so elegant you won’t miss the booze.

WEEKEND HAPPY HOUR

Take a dip.

To spruce up any drink, with or without alcohol, try festive rims.

“They make it very easy to do something special with little effort,” deBary says. He suggests a judicious dip of a flavor-infused kosher salt, shichimi togarashi (a Japanese seven-spice blend), or Tajín, a Mexican seasoning. “These flavors call for acidity, like classic lemonade, mojitos, and margaritas.”

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R E L AT I N G

J U LY 4

Become a fireworks aficionado.

Play kubb.

This summer, it’s all about kubb, a popular Nordic game with intergenerational appeal. Two teams attempt to knock down wooden blocks (kubbs) with wooden batons. It’s more physical than bocce, more strategic than cornhole, and as refined as croquet. But the real reason to play?

“It’s all-ages fun,” says Eric Anderson, director of the U.S. National Kubb Championship in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. “We’ve had teenagers and people in their 70s on the U.S. Championship podium.”

You can purchase a set at a variety of national online retailers.

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READING TIME

Create a family book club.

Families that have had a lot of together time can reset summer routines—and inspire better conversations—by starting a book club.

“Asking your kids what they liked about a book can be much easier and more rewarding than asking them about their day. It’s often easier for kids and adults to talk about characters than themselves.

And nothing beats the bond of sharing the same story,” says Paula Balzer, a celebrity ghostwriter. If you’ve grown used to staying in touch with faraway relatives via video calls, a virtual book club is a great way to add substance to your meetups.

I VA N G E N E R / W E S T E N D 6 1 /O F F S E T

GA M E N I G H T

Peony, waterfall...learn the names of popular fireworks and spot them at celebrations.

It’s a scavenger hunt in the sky.

Peony, dahlia, pistil, waterfall— could you spot these dazzlers?

Visit the fireworks glossary at celebratesafely.org/kinds-of -fireworks to learn the names of popular types, then try to spot them at summer celebrations. Think of it as a scavenger hunt in the sky. Die-hard fireworks fans can continue their studies by picking up a copy of George Plimpton’s Fireworks: A History and Celebration, his sparkling memoir about his role as the “unofficial official” fireworks commissioner for New York City.

In uncertain times, you can be certain of this: Your generosity will make a difference.

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Modern Manners R E A L S I M P L E ’ S E T I Q U E T T E E X P E R T, C AT H E R I N E N E W M A N , O F F E R S HER BEST ADVICE ON YO U R S O C I A L Q UA N DA R I E S.

M.S. ASKS…

I generally get along great with my extended family, but it’s become more of a struggle since I went vegetarian three years ago.

I used to love all their Mexican food, like pork tacos and tamales, but now I bring my own vegetarian versions to family dinners. I have a 2-month-old daughter, who has blessed my life. My family always talks about the meatbased Mexican dishes they’re going to give her. I don’t want to argue about the future, but I also don’t want them to think that’s OK. How do I help them respect my choices?

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I invited a couple to join me at an exclusive private club for a week. They paid for their airfare, and I paid for their lodging and meals and drinks. Should they have volunteered to pay for something? They made no offer to pay at all. I was raised to make some such gesture— not out of necessity but out of good manners.

ABOUT C AT H E R I N E The author of How to Be a Person: 65 Hugely Useful, Super-Important Skills to Learn Before You’re Grown Up, Catherine Newman has shared her wisdom on matters ranging from family and friends to happiness and pickling in numerous publications.

She gets advice from her husband and two opinionated, largely grown children in Amherst, Massachusetts.

One thing I hate about traditional uppercrust etiquette is the set of shadow rules lurking beneath whatever is directly communicated. Because honestly? I bet you said, “Be my guests.” And your friends took you at your word. Like you, I was raised to offer anyway. But if that’s your expectation, clarify it so you don’t end up hurting your own feelings. “This week is my treat, but I’d love it if you picked up a meal at some point,” you could have said, and then they would have known. (It could also be that the airfare alone stretched them financially.) For now, try not to be aggrieved for the sake of being aggrieved. Just enjoy your friends and your own generous impulses, and let the rest go.

I l l u s t r a t i o n s b y Yo c o N a g a m i y a

C AT H E R I N E N E W M A N I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y U L I K N Ö R Z E R

Food is an idiom of caretaking for so many people, and your family is no exception.

For you, deciding your daughter’s diet is an expression of your parenting; for your relatives, food is the way they want to love her up. Mostly, it all sounds totally warm and normal, but also—yes—potentially annoying.

If you can let it go for now, do. By the time your baby is eating solid food, perhaps everyone will have lost interest in using pork tacos as a means of teasing you. But if it’s really upsetting you, then say something: “I know you love the baby. But we’re raising her vegetarian, and I’m kind of stressed about making all these parenting decisions right now. I really need your support.” Then share a recipe for meatless tamales.

J.K. ASKS…

R E L AT I N G

W.G. A S K S …

We’re having my grandson christened soon. We want to invite people to join us for lunch at a restaurant afterward, but we don’t have the money to pay for everyone. How do we invite them while politely saying, “Pay for yourself”?

Just express your heartfelt gratitude and be transparent about the invitation: “We’re so thankful you’re coming to the christening, and we’d love to celebrate with you afterward. We can’t pick up the tab, though, and we will absolutely understand if you don’t join us.” Then choose a restaurant with an eye toward thrift, knowing that a loving crowd will mean so much more than a fancy menu.

S .C . A S K S …

My son has been dating a girl, whom I love, for six years. A few years ago, her mom got drunk at my holiday party, complained about the gift she got in the swap, and— because she fancies herself a naturopath— very loudly asked about my hormonal issues and sex life. My son and his girlfriend will most likely get married, and they’re worried her mom and I can’t be in the same room. What should I do? Just be cordial?

You’re feuding with your son’s future motherin-law, and your son is getting married. In the Venn diagram, these facts overlap primarily at the wedding, and (luckily!) the wedding is about neither you nor the mother of the bride.

Be on your best behavior, whether or not you feel that this crass wine swiller deserves it.

Remember the saying about holding a grudge— it’s like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die. Ask to be seated at a different table, if you must. And remember the hardest-hit person in all of this: your son’s girlfriend, who must be simultaneously stressed and mortified. For her sake, take a deep breath and raise a glass to everyone’s future happiness.

L .O. A S K S …

Am I expected to send a thank-you card to someone who attends a funeral visitation and signs the guest book?

Given that grief is a special occasion for valuing humanity over rigidity, no, the bereaved never need to send thank-you notes. Your mourners already know that you know they came: They signed the guest book. And they showed up to offer solace, not to trigger an antiquated chain of etiquette requirements.

That said, if it brings you comfort to take stock of your community, by all means do so. Sitting down to write thank-you notes can be therapeutic. You might experience both wonder at the impact your lost person made on the world and gratitude for the support offered to you.

You could also send out a blanket thank-you email, but if even that’s a chore, skip it.

H AV E A N E T I Q U E T T E Q U E S T I O N ?

Hover your phone’s camera here to submit your question for Catherine, or email her at modernmanners@realsimple.com.

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R E L AT I N G

Good Read

The Ones Who Got Away A F T E R Y E A R S O F S L O W LY E X PA N D I N G H E R S O C I A L L I F E , C U R T I S S I T T E N F E L D I N S T A N T LY

P R O PS BY AST R I D C H AST K A FO R H E L LO A RT I STS

CO N N EC T E D W I T H T WO WO M E N, M E R E M O N T H S B E FO R E M OV I N G. S H E B RO U G H T ALONG THE FRIENDSHIPS—AND THE CONFIDENCE TO PUT HERSELF OUT THERE. at a holiday party near my house in St. Louis.

I’m a novelist, and she’s a newspaper columnist, and we’d followed each other on Twitter for a few years. In person, we mutually and intensely fangirled, and I was delighted to discover she was just as smart, warm, and funny in real life as in her columns. Her husband took a picture of us, and when she texted it to me before posting it online, and readily agreed to crop out the bulge of my stomach in a silver sweater, I had a feeling it was true love.

I MET AISHA

P h o t o g r a p h b y Te d + C h e l s e a C a v a n a u g h

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The author (left) and Aisha on the night they turned their mutual Twitter following into an actual friendship.

This will be one of those secrets about a friend one feels burdened to keep until they pass.

One day I’ll be reading a story about you winning a National Book Award and I will whisper to myself, Gap Visa card.

I promise not to reveal until your obit. I’ll use a mugshot of you in your best Gap denim.

Also just once before you skip town, you have to let me take you shopping and promise to buy the outfit I pick out even if you never wear it in your new life.

But I think you will.

I am v excited about this plan. This can be like one of those sizzle reel makeover episodes.

Except with middle-aged Midwestern moms.

I was very amused, and even though I don’t love shopping, I agreed to her plan. But I was also sad, because that part about leaving town? Aisha was referring to what I’d told her at lunch—that my husband had just accepted a new job in Minneapolis, and we’d be gone by the end of summer.

The trajectory of my friendship with Jen was similarly intense, similarly timed, and similarly interrupted. Having met her at a lunch with mutual friends, I first truly connected with her one spring night when she gave me a ride to a reading. On the 10-minute drive, we started discussing our lives very openly, the way I usually would with an old friend rather than a new one. We talked about the messiness of parenthood and friendships and work, and it’s hard to know what made us trust each other so quickly, but by the time we pulled into the parking lot, we were gabbing so intensely that we discussed skipping the event. (We resisted.)

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By this point, I’d lived in St. Louis for more than 10 years, and I’d made other friends, including very close ones—the friends I went for long walks with on the weekends; the neighbor friends; the fellow mom friends; the professionallady-dinner friends; the couple-dinner friends, where our husbands would join us at the restaurant; the family-dinner friends, where someone would host pizza or taco night; and every possible combination thereof. The difference between my earlier friendships and my new ones with Aisha and Jen wasn’t in how much I liked them (because I really liked my other friends). The difference was in how quickly and enthusiastically I recognized them as kindred spirits.

When my husband and I moved to St. Louis in 2007, we were engaged but not married, we didn’t have kids, and it took us a long time to find our people. It’s my understanding that if you move to some Midwestern cities from elsewhere, people are very friendly in fleeting interactions but harder to form deep relationships with—in part because, if they grew up there, there’s a good chance they’re still hanging out with their high school classmates. In my early weeks in St. Louis, when my husband and I went to a movie, I’d spot another youngish couple sitting in the theater, and I’d imagine—even if just for a few seconds—approaching them and saying, “We don’t really know anyone. Want to hang out?” Which wouldn’t have reeked of desperation at all. Eventually, we did make friends we adored. But it took a while.

So 10 years later, I was both delighted and confused by the fact that friendship had finally become so much easier.

Had I hit it off effortlessly with Jen and Aisha because I knew I was leaving, and there was a now-or-never aspect to getting to know each other? Was it because my two kids were no longer little, so I had more time and energy to focus on socializing? Or because I wasn’t trying and sometimes, for better or worse, it does seem like good things come to those who don’t try?

C O U RT ESY O F C U RT I S S I T T E N F E L D

That hunch was confirmed when we got together for lunch a few months later. We talked up a storm, then split the check. I proceeded to leave the restaurant and drive away without my credit card, which Aisha realized after I’d departed. She called to tell me…and to mock me, because it was a Gap credit card, which she considered to have, as she put it, a rather “middle school Midwest aesthetic” for a 42-year-old woman. Or, as she subsequently texted:

R E L AT I N G

It’s hard to bond when you’re being too careful.

As I’ve said more than once after a personal conversation, “Feel free to blackmail me.”

Even before moving, I began to think of Aisha and Jen as the gals who got away, a symbol of my unlived life in St. Louis. And then one morning that summer, my children and I climbed into my loaded-up car and drove north to Minneapolis (my husband would come later, with the movers). Once we were there, my main preoccupations were meeting a major writing deadline and doing whatever I could to make my kids’ transition as smooth as possible. I didn’t prioritize making friends of my own, and at that moment, it felt like a relief.

But then something surprising happened: I made a bunch of friends very quickly. Like, within months. A close college friend, Carolyn, lived in Minneapolis, and although we’d barely been in touch for a decade and I wasn’t sure how much we’d still have in common, we picked up right where we’d left off, talking and talking and talking about everything we’d been up to for the past 10 years. In fact, we once went out for dinner on a Saturday, met up again for a walk the next day, and then—after the walk was finished—stood outside my house gabbing for a good half hour because we still hadn’t covered all the topics.

I honestly didn’t anticipate how readily I’d make connections beyond Carolyn—again, with neighbors, with the mothers of my kids’ friends, with other writers. Last July, my family returned to Minneapolis from a vacation, and I realized—with some combination of astonishment, pride, and logistical distress—that I had made plans for 12 out of the next 14 nights. A few included my husband and kids, but mostly they were my own plans, just with other women.

There was dinner with Sugi and Sally, where we drank the tastiest sangria I’ve ever had. There was dinner with Cecily, where it was raining so hard outside the Thai restaurant that we sat in our cars texting each other about when to make a break for it. There was a back-porch dinner with four women—two of whom I’d never met before that night— whose names I’ll omit because we started talking about sex so immediately and so graphically that we’ve since referred to ourselves as the Pubic Hair Club, gotten together almost monthly, and floated the idea of buying one of Gwyneth Paltrow’s so-called This Smells Like My Vagina candles to share à la the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. When I try

to recall why we cut to the chase so quickly that night, I think it started with a conversation about a just-published book that contained lots of sex, then soon segued into the new romantic interest of a club member.

Experts who study friendship would tell you that people become close by confiding in each other. Getting this far into adulthood has given me more to confide. I’ve had more life experiences, and so have my friends, and we’re ready to discuss subjects—whether the crazy things that happen to your body as you age or the challenges of marriage—that once might have felt taboo. I also suspect there’s an inperson backlash to the perfect images we often project on social media, because that perfection is so tedious and so false. And weirdly, when the way we now communicate and live—emailing, texting, carrying around phones that are also cameras—makes us all more vulnerable to others’ “receipts,” or proof of the perhaps questionable things we said and did, we have to make a choice: Are we going to be extremely careful, or say to hell with it?

The reality is that it’s hard to bond with another person when you’re being extremely careful. Or, as I’ve said more than once after a personal conversation with a new friend, “Feel free to blackmail me.”

ABOUT THE Aisha did end up taking me shopping AU T H O R before I moved from St. Louis. We were Curtis Sittenfeld is joined by my friend Adrienne, who’d also the author of seven works of fiction, once made fun of my Gap credit card. (I including Rodham, mean, that wasn’t the only reason I thought which was released in they would get along. But it was a start.) At May. She lives in Minneapolis with her a few different stores and with their input, husband, children, I bought a dress and a shirt and a sweater and many, many and a blazer and some leggings. Now, when friends.

I put on these clothes—which are more fashionable than the yoga pants and fleece jackets I usually wear—I miss and appreciate my St. Louis friends.

But I no longer think of Aisha and Jen as the gals who got away in the sense of missed opportunities. Instead, especially now, I’m grateful to them for ushering in a golden age of female friendship.

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R E L AT I N G

The Gear

F LO W E R P O W E R

This water fountain has three flow settings, a filter to catch grime, and an indicator so you know when it’s time for a refill.

TO BUY: Catit Flower Fountain, $30; petco.com.

Pe t Tr i c k s

Wet Their Whistle K E E P P E T S H Y D R A T E D E V E N O N T H E H O T T E S T D AY S .

By Juno DeMelo

Add a Little Extra

Dogs need about an ounce of water per pound of body weight a day (so a 50-pound dog should slurp up 50 ounces—slightly more than six cups). Cats who eat kibble need about one-half to one cup of water a day; cats who eat wet food can get away with less. Most healthy pets will drink as much as they need, provided they have access to fresh water. At least once a day, clean and refill their water dish (or, if they spend time indoors and out, dishes). Cats don’t like to feel cornered, so put their dish in a quiet spot that’s open on at least two sides.

Pets may drink less than they need when they’re stressed, physically impaired, nauseated, or experiencing mouth pain. To encourage your dog to drink more water, add a few ice cubes or a little low-sodium chicken broth (just don’t make the broth a habit).

Some animals prefer running water—let your dog drink from the hose or set your cat up with a drinking fountain.

You can also offer wet food; its moisture content is between 75 and 80 percent, while kibble’s is about 10 percent.

Watch for Warning Signs Vomiting, diarrhea, heat, and overexertion can all contribute to dehydration. To see if an animal is dehydrated (this goes for dogs, cats, bunnies, even humans), feel the gums. They should be wet, not tacky, and a healthy pink color, rather than white, blue, or bright red. You can also pinch their skin and pull it away from their body—it should bounce back instead of staying up. If you notice your pet drinking more than usual, visit the vet to check for a UTI, kidney disease, diabetes, or another condition.

O U R E X P E RT S JERRY KLEIN, DVM, VETERINARIAN IN CHICAGO AND CHIEF VETERINARY OFFICER AT THE AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB ANDY ROARK, DVM, VETERINARIAN AT CLEVELAND PARK ANIMAL HOSPITAL IN GREENVILLE, SOUTH CAROLINA KURT VENATOR, DVM, PHD, CHIEF VETERINARY OFFICER AT PURINA IN BUFFALO, NEW YORK

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H 2 O TO G O

Communal water bowls can contain parasites and bacteria. If you go to the dog park—or on a hike, run, or long walk—bring a water bottle and this collapsible bowl. TO BUY: Kurgo Zippy Bowl, $10; kurgo.com.

S M A RT B O W L

When a cat’s sensitive whiskers brush the sides of a bowl, it can make her less likely to drink. This one is shallow to help prevent “whisker fatigue.”

TO BUY: Dr. Catsby Water Bowl, $20; chewy.com.

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W O R K , M O N E Y, A N D H E A L T H ADVICE FOR BUSY PEOPLE

Save Big on 6 Pricey Purchases B EC AU S E S P LU RG I N G F E E L S E V E N B E T T E R W H E N I T D O E S N ’ T E M P T Y YO U R WA L L E T

By Kate Rockwood

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0 0 5 , $2

Book a Low-Cost Vacation A M O U N T YO U C A N S AV E : $2,500

(what vacationers who pay for lodging can spend in a year)

Opt for a Fancy Lunch Instead of Dinner financial robots, we could stick with the same wardrobe, sofa, stir-fry at home—day in and day out, without deviation. But we’re human. So we daydream about doing a kitchen reno with all the bells and whistles, or taking the whole family to see the ocean this summer. We want to treat ourselves, but we also don’t want to feel guilty about overspending. The trick is to be intentional about your bigticket buys. Here are insider tips for cutting costs all over.

STO C KSY

IF WE WERE

Photographs by Audrey Shtecinjo

A M O U N T YO U C A N S AV E : Up to 30

percent off a typical restaurant meal

That fine-dining restaurant will take a smaller bite out of your wallet if you go for lunch rather than dinner, says Lauren Greutman, a consumer savings expert and the author of The Recovering Spender. But if you must do dinner, don’t stick to the app-entrée-dessert template. Would you be happier sampling a handful of appetizers and skipping the entrées entirely? Or what about splitting a main dish and unleashing your sweet tooth on the dessert menu? Both strategies can lead to big savings. And if you can, put the meal on a credit card with heavy entertainment rewards, like Capital One’s Savor Rewards card, which gives 4 percent cash back on dining.

If you’re open to house swapping, the whole world is your oyster.

Check out the sites HomeExchange and HomeLink (annual fees are $150 and $99, respectively), where you can coordinate, for example, letting a family stay in your mountainside place while you sip wine on their oceanfront patio. The more flexible you are—about both when and where you’d like to travel—the more options you’ll have. (Don’t want to swap with a stranger? Put the word out among your friends and see if someone in your circle might be keen to try a trade.)

A home-rental site, like Airbnb or Vrbo, gives you myriad options— and more local flavor than defaulting to a hotel, says Pauline Frommer, editorial director of the Frommer’s guides. Just be sure to read the fine print on your dream listing, she says: “Sometimes the cleaning and miscellaneous fees can nearly eclipse the rental cost.” If you have your heart set on a hotel, use a site like Pruvo, which will monitor the reservation so you can rebook if a lower price pops up.

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BAL ANCE

Score on Secondhand Clothing Sites A M O U N T YO U C A N S AV E :

50 percent or more

Have a Micro Wedding or Vow Renewal A M O U N T YO U C A N S AV E :

$25,000 (if you skip the average $29,000 wedding and opt for a $4,000 micro package instead)

Social distancing has shown that people can still have very meaningful weddings even when just the couple attends. That’s a lesson you can use going forward: Gatherings don’t have to be as big as you think.

In fact, a micro wedding could save you a lot of money, and desirable venues offer packages (including a photographer, cake, and reception space) for a super scaled-down guest list—and price tag (often under $4,000). If your favorite venue doesn’t have a micro package, don’t be afraid to explain the concept, says Julia Pham, a certified financial planner at Halbert Hargrove in Long Beach, California. “Everything is negotiable.” Maybe the venue is a ghost town on Friday nights and booking then will slash the price by a third. Or maybe they can relax the in-house catering rule and let you invite family to bring food for an intimate potluck. Even if the price is set in stone, Pham says that gently asking if fees are at all flexible can often motivate vendors to tack on freebies: more time in the space, an extra session with the photographer, a bevy of cake pops to serve alongside the cake.

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When you have Gucci taste on a Gap budget, hit up secondhand sites, like eBay and Poshmark. If you want assurance the designer item isn’t a knockoff, check out The RealReal, says Andrea Woroch, a money-saving expert. The luxe consignment platform has an in-house team to help ensure the tags-on luxury-label

S AV

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$25

K

scarf going for $225 instead of the usual $415 is bona fide. Or try borrowing. Rent the Runway, known for evening and professional wear, has expanded into high-end accessories.

You can either do a onetime rental or—with a membership starting at $89 per month—keep the item as long as you like.

Renovate in the Late Fall or Winter A M O U N T YO U C A N S AV E : $750 to

$1,250 (3 to 5 percent of an average kitchen remodel of $25,000)

Contractors tend to be busiest between May and October, so if you can live with that peeling laminate countertop a bit longer, delaying your renovation until late fall or winter could lower the cost, says Dan DiClerico, an expert for the online marketplace HomeAdvisor.

“Contractors are more willing to negotiate when the phone isn’t ringing off the hook,” he says. (They might also knock off up to 10 percent for multiroom projects.) When prioritizing projects, focus on elements you interact with every day. “If you cheap out on, say, kitchen cabinets and end up with a drawer that sticks, you’ll have all kinds of remodeler’s remorse," DiClerico says.

Stretch your dollars by shopping floor samples or visiting restoration stores, where you’ll find everything from bathroom vanities to fireplaces secondhand. Even if an appliance needs to be restored or rebuilt, it will likely be cheaper than buying something new. Chat with your contractor before you plunk down your payment to make sure the piece fits your project’s specs.

SA

20 Time Your Furniture and Appliance Purchases A M O U N T YO U C A N S AV E :

At least 20 percent

Patience is a virtue—especially when it comes to major home purchases.

Smart timing can easily save you 20 percent or more, says Kara Gooding, divisional merchandise manager at the Home Depot. Memorial Day, July 4, and Veterans Day usually mean big sales on dishwashers, washing machines, and other appliances, while Black Friday brings discounts for every room in the house.

If opening a store credit card makes financial sense, you can earn money to put toward future purchases. (Crate & Barrel and West Elm, for instance, offer 10 percent back to cardholders.) At independent retailers, haggling could lower the price by 15 to 20 percent, says Jennifer Litwin, author of Best

VE

%

Furniture Buying Tips Ever. To kickstart negotiations, simply ask, “Is the price firm?” At any store, you’ll have more leverage when buying multiple items. If the price is fixed, ask about free shipping, white-glove delivery service, or waiving restocking fees, she says.

Of course, buying brand-new isn’t the only option. Try an online resale platform, from the curated (Chairish, Everything but the House) to the local (5miles, OfferUp, Letgo) to the vast (eBay, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace). To avoid being overwhelmed with options, set a search alert, if possible, so you’re notified when a specific item is listed, or post an ISO (in search of) ad yourself.

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can trigger many things to worry about— and for a lot of people, work is unfortunately on the list. In November 2017, Kate, 44, a gender and women’s studies professor at a public university, was diagnosed with stage 1 breast cancer. At first, she thought she was just going to need a relatively minor surgery and radiation, and she made tweaks to her schedule with her department chair. Then, in January 2018, she discovered she needed chemotherapy. “My health was my primary concern,” Kate says, “but with the semester about to start, I was also concerned that we had so little time to adjust the plan for this unexpected situation.”

Kate had accrued enough sick hours to take some time off. “But I didn’t want to just sit around and think about how I might die,” she says. She is an avid biker whose social media is full of posts of interesting streetscapes seen on her rides. “I wanted to keep going.”

Her boss went to the dean, and, with Kate’s input, they came up with a plan prioritizing teaching, minimizing administrative duties, and adding extra sets of hands to writing projects.

A contingency plan was put in place if Kate needed more time off. “I was hopeful I could take care of my health and also do a good job,” Kate says.

Like Kate, 6 in 10 Americans live with at least one chronic disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Read on for tips on tackling work if you’re managing an illness—and on being a supportive coworker if someone else is struggling.

A S C A RY H E A LT H D I AG N O S I S

How to Manage a Chronic Condition at Work E X P E RT S S H A R E T H E I R B E ST A DV I C E F O R HANDLING A JOB—AND AN ILLNESS.

By Sarah Miller

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Illustration by Gracia Lam

BAL ANCE

Understand your protections.

It’s important to distinguish between something like the flu, which goes away, and a chronic illness, which can be long-term, worsen and improve, and vary in intensity. “People with chronic conditions may go through multiple illness flares, being at work, then off work,” says Joy Beatty, PhD, associate professor of management at University of Michigan–Dearborn, whose research centers on employees with chronic illnesses. “And they may not come back at their normal work capacity.”

The two most important federal protections for workers with chronic conditions are the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The FMLA entitles you to up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year if you have a serious health condition. The ADA requires employers to make reasonable adjustments for disabled workers. These two protections can work in tandem—so after your FMLA leave, you can scale back a bit at work if you need to, thanks to the ADA.

Talk to your boss about accommodations.

First, you and your doctor should discuss your care plan and what you might need at work. Then go to your boss or human resources department, says Kristin Fischer, director of HR and leadership development at Multiplier, a nonprofit in Oakland, California. Even if your manager is helpful, it’s important to go over everything with HR (or the equivalent at your company) to make sure potential plans square with company policy and the law.

Elizabeth, a 29-year-old editor and migraine sufferer, white-knuckled her way through several jobs until about three years ago, when she finally asked her boss for specific, medically vetted accommodations to help her manage her flare-ups and seek treatments that might reduce their frequency.

“I needed to know I could call in if I wasn’t feeling well,” she says, “and also that I had the freedom to go to doctor’s appointments.” To Elizabeth’s relief, her boss was on board.

Keep in mind that you’re not obligated to disclose the specific nature of your diagnosis. Your doctors can simply provide documentation of your limitations, which your employer can then address. “My research showed that the best outcomes usually result from having a good relationship with your supervisor and letting them know what you need,” Beatty says.

“People with potentially stigmatizing conditions, such as psychiatric illness, should carefully weigh the benefits and possible drawbacks of disclosure in the workplace.”

Let coworkers be your allies.

While your company is generally not allowed to share information about your disability with your colleagues, you can if you choose. “I actually asked my boss to send an email to everyone so there wouldn’t be 25 separate conversations about it when I wanted to focus on my health,” Kate says. “My colleagues turned out to be amazing, giving me Lyft gift cards since I don’t have a car, crocheting me hats.” Elizabeth noticed that struggling with chronic health problems made her a better coworker and manager.

“If someone seems off or low-energy, I never phrase anything in terms of ‘How do we get you to do more work?’ ” Elizabeth says. “Instead it’s ‘Hey, you’re not feeling well. What can we do to make you feel better?’ ” Kate stresses that not everyone with a chronic condition should go back to work, and that she’s no hero.

She had a lot of help—her wife was able to use the FMLA to take some days off as well—and she found that being around students was energizing rather than debilitating. “You can be successful working with a chronic condition when you have trusting bosses and helpful coworkers,” Kate says. “I wish that for everyone.”

W H AT I S A C H RO N I C D I S E A S E ?

“Chronic illnesses may follow uncertain trajectories and come and go,” Beatty says. Multiple sclerosis, lupus, fatigue, memory issues, problems with walking or physical coordination, and mental illness are some common examples. Legally, the definition gets trickier. “Neither the ADA nor the FMLA uses the word ‘chronic’ in the statutory language,” says Allison Hartry, an attorney focusing on labor and employment at the Morales Firm in San Antonio. The word that’s used more often is “disability.” So if you think your condition is chronic but your employer says it doesn’t qualify as a disability, it might be time to get in touch with an organization like the Job Accommodation Network or to call a lawyer. “An attorney can help you apply the facts of your own medical situation to the legal definitions to determine what types of protections you may have at work,” Hartry says.

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T O P R O W, F R O M L E F T: E L I S A B O N O M I N I / E Y E E M /A D O B E S T O C K ; B R I A N A M O R R I S O N / S T O C K S Y; S O N YA K H E G AY/ S T O C K S Y. M I D D L E R O W, F R O M L E F T: C A R O LY N L A G ATT U TA / S T O C K S Y; R U T H B L A C K / S T O C K S Y; D A R R E N S E A M A R K / S T O C K S Y. B O T T O M R O W, F R O M L E F T: V E AV E A / S T O C K S Y; A N N A P E T R O W/O F F S E T; V E R A L A I R / S T O C K S Y

BAL ANCE

The Most Interesting Path to Lifelong Fitness

WA L K I N G I S T H E U N S U N G H E RO O F T H E E X E RC I S E W O R L D, T H E D O - I T-A N Y W H E R E

R O U T I N E T H A T K E E P S Y O U E N E R G I Z E D A N D H E A LT H Y. H E R E ’ S H O W T O F I N D Y O U R S T R I D E ,

A L O N G W I T H U N I Q U E W AY S R E A D E R S F E L L I N L O V E W I T H W A L K I N G .

By Michele Stanten

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BAL ANCE

WA L K I N G I S L I K E A B E S T F R I E N D — always

there for you when you need it.

At sunrise for an energy boost. Midday for a mental break. In the evening to help shake off the day’s stress. It can offer a quiet solo escape or a fun chance to gather with others. Your walking routine will change as you navigate life, maybe taking a backseat to higher-intensity workouts at times but becoming the mainstay if life gets hectic (or achy knees slow you down). Walking side by side with your kids or aging parents can facilitate tough conversations. Grabbing a coffee and strolling with a coworker could be the beginning of a lasting friendship. For busy couples or new empty nesters, walking together can be a way to reconnect. Even if you stop for a while, walking will be ready and waiting for your return, and you can pick up right where you left off. Any amount of time you spend on this exercise will help you live better, and maybe even longer.

S C I E N C E S AY S : I T ’ S A WELLNESS ELIXIR Walking provides a ton of mind and body benefits, from a nearly instantaneous mood boost to potentially 41/2 more years of life. “Walking heals the three major arenas of emotional, mental, and physical health,” says cardiologist David Sabgir, MD, who created the Walk with a Doctor program to get his patients moving.

“Unlike a medicine that is likely targeting one or maybe two diseases, walking aids in the treatment of over 40 illnesses, with basically only positive side effects.” Those side effects look a lot more appealing than most drug side effects:

Better Sleep When healthy, inactive adults with an average age of 44 started logging 10,000 steps a day, their sleep habits improved after just four weeks. They fell asleep more quickly, snoozed longer, and rated their overall slumber as better, according to a study in the journal BMJ Open.

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Sharper Mind Every time your foot hits the pavement, pressure waves send more blood to your brain. This may be one reason why walking has been shown to enhance connections between key areas of the brain, as well as improve verbal memory and learning.

Regular walkers are also less likely to experience cognitive decline.

Stronger Immunity In a 12-week study, people who walked for 20 minutes five days a week took 43 percent fewer sick days than those who exercised one day a week or less.

Reduced Joint Pain Arthritis can make it difficult to stay active. But walking briskly for a total of one hour or more a week staves off disability. In a four-year study, people with lower-body joint pain who walked for less than an hour a week were eight times as likely to have difficulty crossing a street before the light changed and twice as likely to be unable to perform everyday activities, like walking across a room.

“We walk with a purpose — together.”

PEGGY PAUL, 63, REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA

For years, Peggy ran every morning before work with her friend Maureen. But when Maureen’s sister developed breast cancer, they decided to slow down and train for the 3-Day Breast Cancer Walk fundraiser. “It was life changing to walk with no competition to finish and with the mantra ‘If we were not so busy trying to get ahead, perhaps no one would be left behind,’ ” Peggy says.

That was nearly 22 years ago.

Since then, Peggy and Maureen have done 33 more fundraisers, and they say their team has raised over a million dollars for breast cancer research. Along the way, the two gave up running due to sore knees.

“Walking has been tremendous for us,” Peggy says. “The slower pace allows us to take in more, to watch more of the dolphins in the ocean, and to discuss blessings and challenges in a way that can only be done with the time and sense of freedom and privacy that walking side by side brings.”

“The high school track became my meditative place.”

C L O C K W I S E F R O M T O P L E F T: C A R O LY N L A G AT T U TA / S T O C K S Y; N A B I TA N G / S T O C K S Y; K A AT Z O E T E K O U W/ S T O C K S Y; S O N YA K H E G AY/ S T O C K S Y

GENIE WEISZ, 57, FLORHAM PARK, NEW JERSEY

Healthier Heart

Fewer Cravings

As the name implies, cardio exercise is good for your cardiovascular health— and walking delivers. In the classic Nurses’ Health Study, which has tracked more than 100,000 women since 1976, researchers found that women who walked three or more hours a week (about 25 minutes a day) were 35 percent less likely to develop heart disease. Also, in a three-year study, adults ages 60 and over who started exercising one or two days a week lowered their heart disease risk by up to 11 percent.

All it takes is a 15-minute stroll to help curb emotional eating. As people performed a stressful assignment, researchers tempted them with a bowl of chocolates. Those who had walked before the task ate about half as much as those who had been inactive. Walking can also help if you’re trying to quit smoking.

More Creativity There’s a reason writers like Henry David Thoreau and Virginia Woolf were walkers. Walking stimulates innovative thinking. When people walked, they generated more ideas and increased communication, a Stanford University study found.

Conflict Resolution Taking a walk with your partner may help resolve an argument. Along with reducing stress and improving mood, strolling in step with another person can increase rapport and empathy, which smooths the path to reconciliation, a 2017 report found.

Much of Genie’s walking time, through 30-plus years of marriage and raising two kids, has been around the high school track near her home. In fact, she half jokes that it’s the perfect place to spread her ashes when she passes.

Despite having a large group of friends and being a good listener, Genie wasn’t comfortable opening up about her own needs.

“Walking provided me with a place to be alone and sort through some of my stuff,” she says. “I have spent many hours thinking through business, marriage, and family issues while going around that track. This quiet meditation time allowed me to work through problems and come up with solutions.”

When she was struggling to relate to her teenagers, Genie came up with the idea of immersing herself in their high school culture. So she hopped on her treadmill and walked while watching teen movies and TV shows like Freaks and Geeks.

“I’ve observed so much while walking,” she says. “I’ve reveled in the practices of football, baseball, and lacrosse teams while walking, I’ve laughed and cried, and I came out the other side as the tortoise: a winner of this crazy race we call life.”

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BAL ANCE

Tune in to little moves.

WA L K T H E S E WAY S Stay engaged and get the most benefits with these ideas.

Strive for a streak.

“It’s my favorite way to see the world.”

ROSIE YAKOB, 34

Walking is Rosie’s preferred mode of transportation. She got into the habit of walking to her office as an intern in New York City— 45 minutes each way. Today she travels all over the world with her husband for work, and whenever possible, they stroll to their destinations.

“In taxis, the world whizzes by,” she says. “The best way to see stuff is to go really, really slowly and look very, very closely.” Rosie and her husband meander down side streets, where they’ve encountered street artists practicing their craft and chatted with locals at cafés. Occasionally she schedules “walk and talks” (phone dates) with friends. “It’s a great way to get exercise while catching up with someone I love,” she says.

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How many days in a row can you walk? Use an app like Streaks ($5; iOS), your electronic calendar, or a paper journal to mark each day you walk. It’s a visual reminder to get moving, and trying to maintain your streak will help keep you motivated.

When you break it (don’t worry—it does happen), start again and see if you can go longer this time.

Walk to the beat.

Sync up a mellow tune, like Ed Sheeran’s “I Don’t Care” or Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama.”

A pace of 100 steps (or beats) per minute—the tempo of these songs— hits a moderate intensity and delivers walking’s benefits. Bouts as short as one minute count toward the recommended 150 minutes of moderateintensity exercise a week. Walk to Maroon 5’s “Moves Like Jagger” or Rick Springfield’s “Jessie’s Girl” to reach the vigorous-intensity zone (130 beats per minute), meaning you gain similar benefits in a shorter time.

Make it an outing.

“Many Sunday mornings from April to October, my girlfriends and I meet at a park on a walking trail that hosts a farmers’ market,” says Karen Blobe, 52, of Hellertown, Pennsylvania. “First we walk out and back on the trail and catch up. Then we get breakfast from one of the vendors and talk some more. Finally, we shop! The combo of exercise, fresh air, good friends, and healthy food makes it a not-to-bemissed weekly event.”

Researchers at Washington State University had 23 reluctant exercisers take a somewhat hard walk on a treadmill for 10 minutes. Then, during a similar 10-minute walk, the exercisers listened to a meditation directing them to do a body scan, noticing sensations in their arms, then legs, then feet. Participants felt energized and enjoyed their walks more when they were mindfully focusing on their bodies.

Join a virtual challenge.

Taking a virtual challenge to log the length of real-life routes, like the Appalachian Trail (2,180 miles), can ignite your competitive spirit. “I wasn’t above walking back and forth in my house,” says Victoria Price, 58, of Santa Fe, New Mexico, who completed an EverWalk challenge to hit 110.86 miles. Activity monitors like the Fitbit offer challenges through their apps. Or invite family and friends to walk 1,000 miles in a year (less than three miles a day) on the app Stridekick (free; iOS and Android), which links with a variety of devices.

Mix it up.

Instead of chugging along at the same pace, speed up for brief periods and then return to your usual pace. In one study, people rated intervals as more enjoyable, despite being higher intensity, because the workouts were shorter and more interesting. Do intervals based on time (30 seconds fast, 60 seconds slower), music (speed up on the chorus, slow down in between), or landmarks (speed up from one utility pole to another, then slow down for two). You can do this when you’re running errands—all you need are good shoes.

Pick up a pair of travel-friendly walking shoes that go with all your favorite styles at realsimple.com/footwear.

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Ahhh...

Beach Oasis Explore the colors and textures in this photo, letting your attention move freely, following the pattern of the sand.

Notice the uniqueness of every grain and appreciate how each one contributes to the image as a whole.

As you take in the colors, see if you can find the point where one shade changes to the next. Notice your breathing, and for a few moments allow it to be natural and relaxed while you enjoy the image.

Now imagine you’re walking on a path to a long, sandy beach. As you step onto the sand, feel your feet sink into its warm, soft texture. Feel the sun on your shoulders.

Look up at the beautifully clear sky.

Take in the sapphire blue ocean, glistening in the sunlight.

See the waves gently breaking on the shore, one after another. Listen to the sounds of the waves softly crashing on the beach and the birds flying overhead.

Breathe deeply as you smell the salty air.

Immerse yourself in a feeling of relaxation and ease, fully enjoying the peaceful sensations of the beautiful beach.

STO C KSY

—JAMIE PRICE, MyLife, a personalized mindfulness app

P h o t o g r a p h b y J a v i e r Pa r d i n a

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a t s a p salad s y da

Cook up a bowl of summer-style comfort with these vibrant, producepacked dishes. They’ll be the stars of your backyard spread.

By J e n n a Helwi g P h o to g r a p h s by J e n n i fe r Cause y

Grilled Mediterranean Salad

F O O D S T Y L I N G B Y C H E L S E A Z I M M E R ; P R O P S T Y L I N G B Y A U D R E Y D AV I S

Tortellini Basil Salad Yo u ’l l wa n t to u s e t h is e a sy basil oil o - p re p n ever y th ing this s ummer.

D r iz z le it o n g r il le d c h ic ke n , ve g g ie s , a nd crust y b re a d .

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grill cheese, uncovered, flipping once, until grill marks appear, about 1 minute per side. Transfer to a plate.

MEANWHILE,

oregano, remaining vinaigrette, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt to pasta; stir to combine. Chop zucchini, bell peppers, and cheese into rough 1 1/2-inch squares; add to pasta mixture.

Stir onion, any remaining dressing in vegetable bowl, and 3/4 cup almonds into pasta mixture. Transfer to a platter.

Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup almonds and top with oregano.

ADD

Grilled Mediterranean Salad ACTIVE TIME 45 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 45 MINUTES SERVES 8

1 lb. uncooked campanelle pasta 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 3/4 cup olive oil, divided, plus more for grill grates 2 tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more for water 2 medium zucchini, trimmed and cut into 1/4-in. planks 2 red bell peppers, halved lengthwise, cored, and seeded 1 red onion, cut into 1/2-in. wedges 8 oz. Halloumi cheese, cut into 1/2-in. slabs 2 Tbsp. fresh oregano, chopped, plus more for serving

When grilling the Halloumi, use tongs to slowly raise one corner of the cheese to check for sticking.

If it doesn’t lift off easily, lower it down for about 10 seconds, then try again.

1 cup chopped roasted almonds, divided a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook, stirring occasionally, until al dente, 6 to 7 minutes. Drain; rinse under cold water and drain again. Transfer to a large bowl.

BRING

pasta cooks, whisk vinegar, 1/2 cup oil, and 1 teaspoon salt in a small bowl.

WHILE

grill to medium-high (400°F to 450°F) and lightly oil grates (or heat an oiled grill pan over high). Toss zucchini, bell peppers, onion, and 3 tablespoons oil in a bowl. Brush cheese with remaining 1 tablespoon oil in a separate bowl.

Tor tellini Basil Salad ACTIVE TIME 1 HOUR TOTAL TIME 1 HOUR, 10 MINUTES SERVES 6

PREHEAT

vegetables, uncovered, flipping once, until tender and browned, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a bowl. Add 1/4 cup vinaigrette and 1/2 teaspoon salt; toss to coat. Let stand for 15 minutes.

GRILL

1 1/2 cups packed fresh basil leaves (1 1/2 oz.), divided 1/2 cup plus 2 Tbsp. olive oil, divided 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more for water 13 oz. fresh asparagus, woody ends removed 2 9-oz. pkg. refrigerated cheese tortellini 1 tsp. lemon zest plus 2 Tbsp. fresh juice, divided (from 1 lemon) 3/4 cup sliced shallots (from 2 shallots) 4 oz. watercress, roughly chopped (about 4 cups) 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

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a small pot of water to a boil. Fill a large bowl with ice water. Add 1 cup basil leaves to boiling water; cook for 30 seconds. Drain; plunge basil into ice water and let stand for 1 minute. Remove basil, squeeze out excess liquid, and transfer to a blender.

BRING

1/2 cup oil and 1/2 teaspoon salt to basil in blender; process until smooth, 15 to 30 seconds. Let stand for 15 minutes. Pour through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl. Discard solids.

ADD

a large pot of generously salted water to a boil over high. Add asparagus; cook until crisp-tender, 2 to 3 minutes.

Transfer to a cutting board using tongs.

Add tortellini to boiling water and cook according to package directions. Drain; transfer to a large bowl. Stir in lemon zest and half of basil oil (about 1/4 cup).

Let pasta mixture cool, tossing occasionally, until room temperature, about 30 minutes.

BRING

pasta cools, heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil in a medium skillet over medium-high. Add shallots and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until shallots are crisp and golden, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.

WHILE

watercress and 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a bowl; arrange on a platter. Chop asparagus into 1-inch pieces and add to pasta in bowl. Add pepper, remaining basil oil, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt; toss to coat. Spoon over watercress on platter. Drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice; top with shallots and remaining 1/2 cup basil leaves.

TOSS

Orzo Tomato Salad ACTIVE TIME 45 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 2 HOURS, 15 MINUTES SERVES 8

24 oz. cherry tomatoes, halved 1/2 cup olive oil, divided

Orzo Tomato Salad

1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more for water 1 lb. uncooked orzo 2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar 1 tsp. Dijon mustard 1/2 tsp. honey 3 oz. Parmesan cheese, finely grated (3/4 cup), divided 1 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, plus more for serving 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts oven to 300°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

Arrange tomatoes, cut sides up, in a single layer on baking sheet. Drizzle evenly with 1 tablespoon oil and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Roast for 1 hour. Let cool for 30 minutes.

PREHEAT

tomatoes cool, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil.

Add pasta; cook until al dente, about 9 minutes. Drain; transfer to a large bowl.

WHILE

pasta cooks, whisk vinegar, mustard, honey, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt in a small bowl. Slowly add 5 tablespoons oil, whisking constantly to combine.

WHILE

half of vinaigrette (about 1/4 cup) into hot pasta in bowl. Let pasta mixture cool, stirring occasionally, until room temperature, about 30 minutes.

STIR

remaining vinaigrette to pasta mixture. Stir in 1/2 cup cheese, roasted tomatoes, parsley, and pine nuts. Transfer to a platter. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheese, drizzle with remaining 2 tablespoons oil, and top with parsley.

ADD

ke s t h e a m r e cy leas owd-p fu l , j u i r r c o l s o i c h T o n’s d e seas h t low an f o m t e s h o t m ast v o r. o e s . Ro eir fla h t e to m a t t t ra concen o t w slo

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CoconutMiso Soba Salad or lmon, a s , n e ick ch illed ch ami-ri m u s i Add gr e th l. o mak t p s ta n t i a b m i u s shr e r ven mo salad e

5 Pasta Salad Secrets 1 For an unsoggy salad, cook the pasta just until al dente.

It will soften a bit as it soaks up the dressing.

2 Whether or not you rinse the pasta after draining affects the finished dish. Rinsing cools the pasta immediately, so it soaks up less dressing, making for a saucier salad.

Skipping the rinse—and letting the pasta cool in the dressing—means it absorbs more flavor but is less silky.

3

Blende d bean s a re t (health he sec y!) ing re t r e dient i c re a m n y, C a e s this a r- i s h d re s s i n g.

Tuna and White Bean Salad

The best, most vibrant vegetables lead to the tastiest pasta salads. Look for local produce at the grocery store (many chains feature veggies grown nearby during the summer) and keep your eyes peeled for showstoppers at the farmers’ market.

Or use what’s sprouting in your own garden.

4 You can prep and refrigerate a pasta salad up to a day ahead, but bring it to room temperature a half hour before serving, and add any tender leaves or garnishes at the last minute. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt will help it pop.

5 If you’re improvising a pasta salad, include plenty of ingredients that bring big flavor.

Zesty vinegars, salty cheeses, and briny olives or capers keep dishes bright and lively.

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Tuna and White Bean Salad

Coconut-Miso Soba Salad

ACTIVE TIME 30 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 1 HOUR SERVES 8

Save time by buying roasted, skinned hazelnuts, such as Rivulet Farm ($18 for 16 oz.; rivulet.farm).

1 lb. uncooked penne 1/2 cup olive oil, plus more for serving

ACTIVE TIME 25 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 25 MINUTES SERVES 6

1/4 cup well-shaken and stirred canned coconut milk 3 Tbsp. white miso 3 Tbsp. mirin 2 Tbsp. toasted sesame oil, plus more for serving 2 Tbsp. canola oil 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, plus more for water 1 10-oz. bunch fresh Broccolini, trimmed 9 oz. uncooked soba noodles 3 scallions, trimmed and thinly sliced (about 1/4 cup)

1/4 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup white wine vinegar 1/4 tsp. Worcestershire sauce 1 15-oz. can low-sodium cannellini beans, drained and rinsed, divided 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more for water 1 cup thinly sliced celery plus 1 cup chopped leaves, plus more leaves for serving

Crushed red pepper and flaky sea salt, for serving

ACTIVE TIME 30 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 1 HOUR SERVES 8

1 lb. uncooked fusilli pasta

1 cup roughly chopped pitted Castelvetrano olives

3/4 cup roasted, skinned hazelnuts

1 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh sage

1/2 cup olive oil, plus more for serving

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, plus more for serving 1 7-oz. jar tuna fillets in olive oil, drained

2 Tbsp. toasted sesame seeds, divided 2 Tbsp. toasted unsweetened coconut chips

Hazelnut Romesco Pasta Salad

a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain; transfer to a large bowl.

BRING

pasta cooks, place oil, mayonnaise, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, about half of beans, and 3/4 teaspoon salt in a blender. Process until smooth, about 10 seconds.

2 jarred roasted red bell peppers 2 Tbsp. tomato paste 1 Tbsp. sherry vinegar 1 clove garlic 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided, plus more for water 4 oz. finely chopped dry-cured Spanish chorizo 1/2 cup golden raisins Torn fresh mint leaves, for serving

WHILE

coconut milk, miso, mirin, sesame oil, canola oil, and salt in a large bowl; set aside.

WHISK

a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Submerge Broccolini in water and cook until just tender, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board using tongs.

BRING

soba noodles to boiling water; cook until just tender, about 4 minutes.

Drain; rinse well under cold water and drain again. Transfer to coconut milk mixture in bowl; toss to combine.

ADD

Broccolini stems into 1/4-inch pieces; chop florets into 1-inch pieces.

Add Broccolini, scallions, and 1 tablespoon sesame seeds to noodle mixture; toss to combine. Transfer to a platter.

Drizzle with sesame oil and sprinkle with coconut chips and remaining 1 tablespoon sesame seeds. Top with crushed red pepper and flaky salt.

CHOP

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three-fourths of mayonnaise dressing (about 1 cup) into hot pasta in bowl. Let pasta mixture cool, tossing occasionally, until room temperature, about 30 minutes.

STIR

remaining dressing to pasta mixture. Stir in sliced celery, olives, sage, pepper, remaining beans, and remaining 3/4 teaspoon salt. Fold in celery leaves and tuna, taking care not to break up tuna too much. Transfer to a platter.

Drizzle with oil and top with celery leaves and several grinds of pepper.

ADD

a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add pasta; cook, undisturbed, until al dente, 7 to 8 minutes.

Measure 1 cup pasta cooking water into a small heatproof bowl; set aside. Drain pasta; transfer to a large bowl.

BRING

pasta cooks, process hazelnuts in a food processor until finely ground.

Add bell peppers, oil, tomato paste, vinegar, garlic, and 1 teaspoon salt; process until smooth. With food processor running, gradually add reserved cooking water, processing until smooth, about 5 seconds.

WHILE

three-fourths of hazelnut sauce into hot pasta in bowl. Let pasta mixture cool, stirring occasionally, until room temperature, about 30 minutes.

STIR

remaining hazelnut sauce and 1/2 teaspoon salt to pasta mixture. Stir in chorizo and raisins. Transfer to a platter.

Drizzle with oil and top with mint.

ADD

d ins, an s i a r n e is o, gold Choriz s u re t h n e s e av i cy, mint le g ht s p i r e h t its all te s . salad h esh no r f d n a sweet,

Hazelnut Romesco Pasta Salad

Hair That’s Happy with Humidity

Trade in the hot tools and get handsy!

Using your mitts to style is gentler and quicker too.

Find the unfussiest ways to manage (not fight) frizz. This is not crazy talk—it’s truly the easiest way to pull off great summer hairstyles.

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Condition Your Curls Curly-haired girls know the drill: Moisture can make or break your look, and summer’s humidity poses a threat. The most important thing here is hydration, which will help keep the cuticle smooth and the frizz to a minimum. Look for ingredients that quench thirsty curls, like oils and butters. “It’s all about layering,” says New York City celebrity hairstylist Tommy Buckett. OGX has a Pracaxi Oil line, including shampoo, conditioner, moisture treatment, and combing cream ($9 each; ulta.com), that keeps curls conditioned yet weightless. And don’t be afraid to add more. “Products tend to evaporate more quickly when it’s hot,” Buckett points out. Another must: “Use a diffuser when you’re drying,” says Adir Abergel, a Hollywood hairstylist and the creative director of Virtue Labs; the attachment maintains your hair’s natural texture and speeds up drying time. On second- or third-day hair, mist coils generously with a dry conditioner, like Aussie Sleekend Warrior ($5; target.com).

P R E V I O U S S P R E A D , F R O M L E F T: A U G U S T I M A G E ; G R AY L O T T/ T H E L I C E N S I N G P R O J E C T. T H I S S P R E A D , F R O M L E F T: G U I L L A U M E L E C H AT/ G A L L E R Y S T O C K ; A U G U S T I M A G E ; C O R Y VA N D E R P L O E G /G A L L E R Y S T O C K ; P R O D U C T I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U FA C T U R E R S

Got bangs?

They may require a little extra TLC (a.k.a. hot tools).

MAKE COLOR L AST

Wake Up to Waves Give your hot tools the day (or week…or entire summer) off by braiding your hair. This trick adds body to straight hair and lends structure to natural curls. Before bed, on almost-dry hair, evenly distribute a pea-size amount of a smoothing cream or treatment, like Pantene Fortifying Damage Repair Overnight Restoring Serum with Castor Oil ($7; at drugstores), from

midlengths to ends. Then braid: Go for two pigtails if you have straight hair or want a tighter, more crimped look; do just one braid if you want loose, beachy waves.

In the morning, remove your plaits and finger-comb—don’t brush—your fresh waves.

Bonus: The straighter ends you get from braid-made waves are super trendy right now, says Joseph Maine, a celebrity hairstylist in New York City.

It doesn’t take much for your hair color to change (remember those lemon juice bleaching experiments?). That’s why it’s so important to protect it in the sun. “I love Color Wow Pop & Lock Gloss Treatment [$20; colorwowhair.com] because it has UV protection,” Maine says.

Plus, it doubles as a gloss, so it adds shine—a welcome benefit for dried-out, lackluster summer strands. To fully protect your hair (and shield your skin), wear a hat with a wide brim, Abergel says. “It’s one of the best ways to preserve color if you spend a lot of time outdoors.”

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SQUEEZE MORE DAYS FROM YOUR STYLE In the summer, you don’t want to subject yourself to any more heat blasts than you need to.

So if you’ve blow-dried your hair, follow these steps to make the style last, even if you sweat or work out. with a microfiber towel. Quickly and roughly blow-dry hair on the coolest setting, Lee says. “Pay close attention to your roots, since that’s usually the part that will show excess oil,” she adds.

B LOT AWAY M O I S T U R E

ADD AN ACCESSORY Hair accessories are hot right now—and become stylish tools to spruce up your ’do. Three or four stacked bobby pins or a knotted headband hold faceframing pieces back, while a metallic hair clip or fabric scrunchie can level up a blah bun or the same-old ponytail.

If you’re going swimming or exercising, celebrity hairstylist Nikki Lee, cofounder of the salon Nine Zero One in Los Angeles, suggests wearing a clip. “It won’t leave kinks in the hair the way an elastic might.” For a selection of on-trend accessories—all for less than $20—check out thehairedit.com.

like Redken Invisible Dry Shampoo ($24; ulta.com), which won’t leave any white residue.

S P R I T Z O N A D RY S H A M P O O,

Keep your bun sleek and pulled back, or leave a few pieces free for a boho vibe.

Get to the Root of the Problem “In warm weather, hair gets a little sweatier and dirtier,” Buckett says. So in summer, use a shampoo and conditioner that reduce scalp buildup and clarify the strands themselves. L’Oréal Paris EverPure Scalp Care + Detox Shampoo and Conditioner ($8 each; lorealparisusa.com) offer a deep yet nourishing cleanse. When you’re washing, Buckett says to really get in there and massage at the roots to loosen up sebum and dirt.

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try something that will help bring back your original style, such as Playa New Day Mist 3-in-1 Styler Refresh ($24; sephora.com). Like a wrinkle-release spray you’d use on a dress, this mist smooths any creases—but it also hydrates, helps reactivate your style, and defrizzes sans hot tools.

O N YO U R L E N GT H S ,

I F YO U N E E D A L I T T L E E X T R A F R E S H E N I N G U P — say, after an intense spin class—but still aren’t ready to suds up completely, Maine suggests washing your hairline (with a mild face cleanser or shampoo) while you’re washing your face at the sink. You’ll just have to dry the roots, which helps add volume anyway.

O P P O S I T E PA G E : M E I TA O . T H I S PA G E : A U G U S T I M A G E . P R O D U C T I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U FA C T U R E R S

Amp Up the Air-Dry

PEP UP YOUR PONY The ponytail doesn’t have to be a last-resort hairstyle (or desperate way to get those sticky strands off your neck). To make your pony look polished and intentional, Buckett suggests this effortless trick: Rather than flipping your head upside down and gathering your hair, simply look up at the ceiling, grasp, and secure: Your ponytail will tighten itself when you bring

your chin back down, and you avoid flyaways or gaping, especially at the neck. If you sport more of a pony tendril than a ponytail, try the Kitsch Ponyfull ($12; mykitsch.com). It’s a silicone plug that stays put inside the hair elastic, making your pony much fuller.

Part your pony in two, then anchor the pick under the elastic and let hair fall on top.

Air-drying is great in the summer.

It’s healthier for your hair, it saves time, and it keeps your bathroom from turning into a sauna.

Prepping for an air-dry starts in the shower, says Mara Roszak, a celebrity hairstylist in Los Angeles. After shampooing, use a moisturizing conditioner or mask, like Authentic Beauty Concept Hydrate Mask ($38; ulta.com). Run a comb through to detangle, then rinse.

When you’re done showering, reach for a microfiber hair towel to absorb moisture without roughing up the cuticle, which leads to frizz. We like Aquis Rapid Dry Lisse Hair Towel ($30; aquis.com). Then scrunch a dollop of Kenra Sugar Beach Sun Crème 12 ($17; ulta.com) into damp hair—it uses sugar, which is gentler than salt.

If you want more movement once hair is dry, touch up a few pieces with a curling iron, Lee says. Roszak suggests tucking short hair behind the ears or twirling it with your fingers for texture. If flyaways and frizz start to bum you out, Buckett recommends a cocktail (no, not a marg) of gel and leave-in conditioner: “Mix them and rake strands off your face, molding hairs into place with your hands.”

The leave-in reduces the stickiness of the gel yet retains a nice hold. Buckett also likes Harklinikken Hydrating Crème ($22; harklinikken.com), a treatment and styler in one.

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FIRE UP FA M I LY T I M E I t d o e s n’ t g e t c o z i e r t h a n g a t h e r i n g with your people around a firepit.

H e r e ’s h o w t o b r i n g t h a t warmth to your own backyard.

By PETR A GUGLIELMET TI Illustrations by ANDRE A MONGIA

t

about a firepit isn’t that it can transform an ordinary space into an instant vacation spot or offer infinite potential for s’mores. It’s that, unlike so many outdoor-lifestyle trends, a firepit is totally doable.

No matter how much space, time, or money you’re working with, if you have a yard (or a deck, or even a picnic table), you can have a firepit. And whether you DIY a classic campfire setup, purchase a ready-to-light model, or invest in a custom gas-fueled pit, this is one exterior update HE COOLEST THING

with an afterglow that beats the initial thrill. “Our love of a contained fire feels primal,” says landscape designer Neil Chambers of Chambers Design in South Orange, New Jersey. “It brings people together, lights the night with a comfortable glow, and warms us during cooler weather.

It hits some of the most essential human needs.” Read on for a rundown of all the options, plus pro tips for getting your perfect pit up and crackling—and being safe while you’re at it.

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Build Your Own

Don’t Go Too Deep or Big The ideal measurements are 12 to 18 inches deep and three to four feet wide. “That’s big enough for a goodsize fire with room for friends to gather around,” says Blythe Yost, cofounder of Tilly, an online landscape-design firm. Call 811 before you dig to confirm there aren’t underground utility lines to worry about.

Create a Firesafe Barrier Materials that won’t burn, like crushed stone or pea gravel, are best for the area around your firepit.

Burn Smarter

Consider Your Base A steel liner or ring, like the Sunnydaze Heavy Duty Fire Pit Ring (from $135; sunnydazedecor.com), will support your firepit’s shape while preventing flames from damaging surrounding stones or pavers.

Decide on a Wall Style “This can be as simple as lining the rim with rocks or as involved as building support walls with copestone,” Yost says. If you don’t use a liner, make sure any materials are firesafe, as some types of rocks and blocks (like sandstone and river rocks) could spark or explode if they get too close to the flame.

Prepare for Bad Weather Line the bottom with six inches of firesafe gravel to prevent water from pooling. Ideally, you should also cover your pit with a heavy-duty tarp when it’s not in use (just wait until the pit is fully cooled, of course).

GET STOKED Try these supplies to build a fire and keep it burning.

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Spring-loaded and boasting an extralong reach, this grabber lets you rearrange logs from the comfort of your Adirondack chair.

TO BUY: 52-Inch Log Grabber, $65; pyroclaw.com.

Made of twill, with a leather handle, this hauler offers as much style as it does splinter protection.

TO BUY: Filson Log Carrier, $95; bespokepost.com.

Only use dry, seasoned logs—hard woods, like oak, will burn longer and smoke less than soft ones, like pine.

Avoid fresh (or “green”) sticks, which create harsh smoke. Start by lighting kindling under two or three stacked logs. “Nurture it, give it air, and slowly and selectively add logs as the fire grows,” says Emily McGee, spokesperson for the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association in Arlington, Virginia. Pro tip: Save your dryer lint to use as easyto-light tinder beneath the kindling.

Protect Yourself You never know when flames will get feisty. Always have a garden hose, bucket of water, bucket of sand, or fire extinguisher designed for use with firepits within easy reach.

A spark guard is a great addition if you have kids or pets.

See No Red Before Going to Bed “As with a campfire, make sure your pit is completely extinguished; leave no ember burning before you call it a night,” McGee says. Once your fire burns down, spread out the ashes and let them cool. Then slowly pour water on top until no more smoke or steam comes out.

No more singed knuckles!

A flexible 15-inch neck makes it painless to ignite fires of any size.

TO BUY: Camco Olympian GM-3X Gas Match, $32; amazon.com.

P R O D U C T I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U FA C T U R E R S

There’s something special and nostalgic about a wood-burning firepit nestled right into the earth. “In-ground firepits are extremely versatile in terms of style and feel,” Chambers says. You can go as basic or fancy as you want with the design. Just keep these factors in mind as you decide.

SAFE T Y FIR ST

This convenient and chemical-free kindling comes from sustainable wood.

TO BUY: Fatwood Crate, $55; llbean.com

Use this brilliant gadget to both rearrange logs and stoke the fire from a safe distance (just blow air through the handle).

TO BUY: Walden Blow Through Fire Stoker-Poker, from $53; walden backyards.com.

It’s good practice to clean out your ashes after each fire, so keep a nice-size lidded bucket and shovel around.

TO BUY: Panacea Ash Bucket with Shovel, $40; acehardware.com.

Having actual flames in your backyard is about as close to “playing with fire” as it gets, so before you reach for the matchbox, consider some essential safety concerns.

First, check with your fire department, town hall, or homeowners association to see if local ordinances prohibit or limit firepits (especially likely in areas prone to drought or wildfires).

Once you have the go-ahead, think carefully about your firepit’s location. While you have more leeway with propane and natural-gas firepits—which produce minimal smoke and sparks—wood-burning pits need to be at least 10 (and sometimes many more) feet away from your house, structures like fences and sheds, and shrubs or trees, including overhanging branches. You also need to allow enough space for chairs to be two to three feet back from the fire, all on level ground.

Be a good neighbor too: If smoke will consistently blow toward a neighbor’s windows or deck, choose a different spot—that campfire smell loses its charm pretty quickly when you’re not the one sitting near it. What’s more, the fine particles in smoke can be problematic for people with asthma or heart or lung disease.

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CONSIDER T H E M AT E R I A L Here’s what to know before you buy a firepit made from one of these common components.

ST E E L can be inexpensive and lightweight, but it may rust

unless it’s powder-coated or stainless.

C A ST I RO N A N D C O N C R E T E are sturdy and conduct heat

well with no rust worries, but they’re heavy.

T E R R A- C O T TA is durable and heat tolerant, but it may

require special care (like sealing, curing, and indoor storage in winter).

C O P P E R is an investment-worthy option because

of its color, its heat distribution, and the patina it acquires over time.

Firepit Matchmaker If you don’t want to dig, don’t have much space, or just don’t love commitment, then keep your fire feature aboveground.

There’s a premade firepit suited to almost any style and location.

The elevated design makes it safe for wood decking.

If You Have a Small Backyard

If You Have a Lakeside Lawn

This wood-burning (yet smoke-free) stainlesssteel bonfire is portable, and it can be combined with a stand that makes it safe even when placed on grass. TO BUY: Solo Stove Round Stainless Steel Fire Pit, $350; homedepot.com.

Extra-light concrete blocks mean you can easily move it to your ideal spot, and the walls offer the perfect height for resting feet on.

TO BUY: Four Seasons Outdoor Wood-Burning Fire Pit, $399; lowes.com.

If You Want to Add Ambience to a Tabletop This one runs on convenient cans of gel fuel (subscription optional), so you can put it just about anywhere. TO BUY: Terra Flame Table Top Fire Bowl, $80; terraflame.com.

If You Want to Warm Up Outdoor Parties Gather ’round this two-foot fire table, which includes hidden storage for a standard 20-pound propane tank. TO BUY: Playa Stone Propane Fire Pit Table, from $510; allmodern.com.

P R O D U C T I M A G E S C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U FA C T U R E R S

IT’S A GA S

If You Want One That Has It All

If You Have a Tiny Patio

This sleek fire bowl with legs comes with a vinyl cover, spark screen, and poker. TO BUY: Real Flame Anson Wood Burning Steel Fire Bowl, $389; homedepot.com.

This little option requires just 10 inches of floor space and features a knob for adjusting flame and heat level. TO BUY: Project 62 Pipestone 17-Inch LP Fire Column, from $109; target.com.

If You Have a Modern Outdoor Living Room…and Money to Burn Landscape designers get hot and bothered over this sleek and angular wood-burning beauty.

TO BUY: Plodes Geometric Fire Pit, from $1,675; dwr.com.

A gas-fueled pit gives you fire at the flick of a switch. (And you can turn it off and sleep easy with another flick of the switch.) This kind of convenience doesn’t come cheap, however, since it will require hiring a plumber to run the gas line from either your kitchen appliances’ supply or a dedicated liquidpropane tank installed in your yard.

The initial outlay can be upwards of $1,000, but you might recoup some of that over time, since gas is generally more affordable than seasoned firewood.

Break in your new firepit with s’mores for the whole family. We share our secret to making a perfect batch every time at realsimple.com/smores.

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F L O W E R S : S W E E T F R A G R A N C E R O S E A N D H I G H V O LTA G E R O S E , E A S Y E L E G A N C E R O S E S . C O M

A BOOK for E VE RY A I L M E N T Maybe the world feels like it’s crumbling.

Or a relationship feels fraught.

Or you just need a little dose of perspective.

Find the fix—and solace, and inspiration, and unexpected belly laugh at the exact moment you need it—in a bookcase near you.

Catherine Hong shares how bibliotherapy offers the novel cure you’re after.

Photographs by Johnny Miller

I

’ M N O T I N T H E R A PY T H E S E DAYS ,

but like many people, I have issues that could use some working through.

Just ask my husband or my teenage daughter (but not my mother—please, not her!). In the past, I’ve seen compassionate, well-trained therapists who offered sound advice and plenty of tissues, but those weekly sessions never lasted for the long haul. They started getting expensive, and—for an introvert like me, who prefers to let other people do the talking—50 minutes of forced conversation began being something to dread.

The concept of bibliotherapy, therefore, struck me as not only practical but downright inviting. Bibliotherapy is the practice of reading books to help address

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conflicted emotions regarding my mother, my AWOL career ambitions. Topping it all off, of course, was the new, highpitched anxiety regarding face masks, distance learning, and my inability to purchase toilet paper.

Berthoud was warm and reassuring, and we bonded immediately over being isolated at home with teenagers. Having paged through The Novel Cure, I was inclined to like her anyway: The 751 books she and Elderkin recommend are heavy on literary fiction, light on the extremes of obscure highbrow or trashy commercial. They prescribe Bel Canto by Ann Patchett for unrequited love, The Rachel Papers by Martin Amis for cynicism, American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis for shopaholism—all inspired pairings, in my book. And Berthoud won me over on the topic of children’s literature, a lifelong passion of mine. “Children’s books can offer wonderful inspiration and solace to adults,” she told me. “I’ve recommended The Giver by Lois Lowry to clients who’ve felt a lack of wonder and joy in their lives. It’s a book that reminds you how amazing life is, even when it’s hard.”

She tossed out a few recommendations, among them Family Matters by Rohinton Mistry (“It’s all about aging

F LOW E RS : SU M M E R C RUS H H Y D RA N G E A , E N D L ESSSU M M E R B LO O M S.CO M

the everyday ailments of life, such as low-level anxiety, heartache, and midlife ennui. (Let’s be clear: It’s not intended to replace traditional therapy for severe conditions.) For any book lover, the appeal is especially obvious: Time spent pleasure reading can be guilt-free in the name of mental health and wellness. With little more than a stack of novels and a cozy chair, you could, in theory, heal thyself.

The belief in the salubrious effect of storytelling is nothing new. In ancient Greece, the entrance to the library of Thebes was inscribed with “healing place of the soul.” Around the end of the 19th century, Sigmund Freud was using literature in psychoanalysis sessions. Later, during World War I, hospitalized patients were encouraged to read books as a means of recovering from trauma.

The term “bibliotherapeutics” is believed to date back to 1916, when the Atlantic Monthly reported on the goings-on at a Bibliopathic Institute, run out of a church basement, where a self-anointed specialist dispensed the works of Tolstoy, Shaw, and Thackeray like tinctures and tonics. The craze for literary clinics never took off quite like the practice of psychotherapy, but the term “bibliotherapy” has gained currency in recent years, due to the efforts of Ella Berthoud and Susan Elderkin. The two University of Cambridge–educated book lovers, who operate a bibliotherapy service out of London’s School of Life, cowrote The Novel Cure: From Abandonment to Zestlessness: 751 Books to Cure What Ails You. “When we were students, we liked to joke that we could be book doctors,” Berthoud says.

“When one of us had a problem, the other would recommend a book to help the other through it.”

Clients seeking their bibliotherapy services start out by answering a detailed questionnaire. Then they have a phone or video conference with a bibliotherapist to further discuss their reading habits and personal dilemmas. Several days later, clients receive an individualized “prescription” of about six books, as well as the therapist’s explanation for why each one was chosen.

When Berthoud and I had our video chat, it was midMarch, in the early days of the Covid-19 crisis. I had dutifully completed her questionnaire, surprising myself by the passion with which I answered questions like “How would you describe your relationship to books?,” “Which books and authors have you loved most?,” and “What is missing from your life?” Perhaps because I was writing, not speaking, I laid everything out: my increasingly distant children, my

RE ADING Rx

Six writers recall the books that felt the most like therapy.

parents”) and a couple of titles to get me through the developing pandemic. A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles, she promised, would be fantastic for quarantine because “the main character himself is confined to his hotel for 30 years.” The Martian by Andy Weir would be another ideal lockdown read, on account of the protagonist’s “selfresourcefulness and will to survive.” Within a minute of hanging up, I had ordered a half dozen paperbacks online and was eagerly awaiting Berthoud’s full prescription.

In the meantime, I did a little more research on the effects of reading. A study in 2000 showed that when people read about an event, they display activity in the same brain regions they would if they had experienced it firsthand.

Other studies have found that people who read literary fiction tend to demonstrate increased empathy. Reading has also been shown to nurture a sharper mind and coax our bodies into a state of deep relaxation, not unlike meditation. Books, it seemed clear to me, could help people become happier and healthier, not to mention more emotionally attuned to others.

“I talk about books with my shrink all the time,” a friend told me. “She loves reading, so it’s something we connect on. You should talk to her!” A couple of days later, I was on the phone with Ruth Burtman, PhD, a psychologist in New York City. “For my patients who love to read, discussing novels or memoirs can be really helpful, maybe more so than self-help books,” she said. One of the benefits of reading fiction, she explained, is that the lessons and themes are rarely explicit. “Novels reach us on a deep, implicit level, which is how we learn most of our behavior.” And stories tend to stick with us. “You might easily forget a set of facts, but you don’t easily forget a place,” she said. “Reading a novel is like visiting a place.”

The tricky part, Burtman acknowledged, is that not everybody interprets a book the same way. “Different people naturally focus on different aspects of a novel, depending on their point of view,” she said. We stumbled on this in our own conversation, when she told me that one book she had recommended to patients who were lamenting a “loss of lightness and sense of humor” was Where’d You Go, Bernadette, Maria Semple’s comic novel about a misanthropic former architect who mysteriously disappears.

“In the summer of 2017, I had retreated to Turin, Italy, to work on my novel and was struggling to write about the darkest of subjects: domestic violence. I came across Look, Solmaz Sharif’s collection of poems, and read it in one sitting. ‘It matters what you call a thing,’ she writes.

She forces the reader to engage with how language is used for and against us. It’s a good book to read now, as we face unbearable loss.”

Angie Cruz AU T H O R O F D O M I N I C A N A

“At least once a year I engage in self-therapy by rereading Ellen Raskin’s The Westing Game. Yes, it’s a middle-grade novel, around 200 nearly perfect pages of puzzle mystery.

But its themes of compassion, forgiveness, and charity inspire me to be a better human being—plus, it’s pure, all-ages fun.”

“After working on my third novel and completing a 30-city book tour, I was mentally and creatively exhausted. I felt I had nothing left inside to sustain me through the writing of another book. In this depleted state, I read Becoming Jane Eyre by Sheila Kohler, a beautiful novel about Charlotte Brontë and the writing of her great opus.

I was transported to the Yorkshire moors where Charlotte persisted despite an ill father, an opiate-addicted brother, poverty, and failure.

The book inspired me to visit the Brontë home in England and tapped a small tsunami of passion inside of me. I was soon at work again. I often suggest this book to someone who feels beleaguered by life, burned-out at work, or simply in need of creative rekindling.”

Sue Monk Kidd AU T H O R O F T H E S EC R E T LIFE OF BEES AND THE BOOK O F LO N G I N G S

Juliet Grames AU T H O R O F T H E S E V E N O R E I G H T D E AT H S O F S T E L L A F O RT U N A

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“One of the first books I remember reading as a kind of therapy is The Age of Grief by Jane Smiley, which includes a story about a husband who suspects his wife is having an affair. He falls into deep sadness while they continue to go about their daily lives as a couple and as parents. I was single and living in New York when I first read it, and there was something so moving about the details of married life, the intimacy of it, how you could know someone so well and love them so much and still be crushed by that love.”

Laura Zigman AU T H O R O F S E PA R AT I O N A N X I E T Y

“As an author who also happens to be a therapist, I love to ‘prescribe’ my patients books that I think will hold up a mirror to them and help them through their struggles. I have favorites for everything from depression to addiction to narcissism, but one universally relatable book I recommend often is Joan Didion’s The Year of Magical Thinking. On the surface, it’s about the year

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of grief following her husband’s sudden death from a heart attack. But really it’s an achingly gorgeous, thought-provoking, and even quite funny memoir about an extraordinary marriage, a rocky mother-daughter relationship, and the terror and beauty of loving so deeply.”

Lori Gottlieb AU T H O R O F M AY B E YO U S H O U L D TA L K T O SO M EO N E

“The book I’ve relied on most to help navigate difficult times is The Art of Living: The Classical Manual on Virtue, Happiness, and Effectiveness, Sharon Lebell’s translation of the teachings of Epictetus. He claimed that human beings cannot control life, only their responses to it. When I was going through a very public divorce, at first I felt quite defensive, and I was angry— apoplectic, really—for months. But I got tired of being upset, because it was draining me of other things that made me feel good.

I took my power back.”

Terry McMillan AU T H O R O F I T ’ S N OT A L L D OW N H I L L F RO M H E R E

“Really?” I couldn’t help interjecting. “I don’t see that one for someone looking for lightness. I would have said it was perfect for someone struggling with creativity or their loss of ambition.”

She paused.

“Maybe this is something you’re grappling with,” she responded. (Damn—she got me!)

The consolations of bibliotherapy also reminded me of one of my former English professors, Edward Mendelson, the author of The Things That Matter, which explores how seven classic novels probe different stages of life. He discusses what Wuthering Heights has to say about childhood, what Middlemarch tells us about marriage, what Mrs. Dalloway illuminates about love, and so on. I reconnected with Mendelson over email, and he affirmed his belief that art can help with healing. “Art and literature tell you truths about the world and about yourself that no one else can tell you,” he replied. “W.H. Auden once wrote: ‘The primary function of poetry, as of all the arts, is to make us more aware of ourselves and the world around us.’ ” I pulled out Mendelson’s book to read his chapter on To the Lighthouse. He writes that Woolf’s 1927 novel is, among other things, “a study in the double nature of parenthood, its simultaneous impulses to hold back and push forward a child.” I unearthed my yellowed copy, and, over the course of a few nights, immersed myself in the Ramsay family’s home on the Isle of Skye. This time, I saw the way Mrs. Ramsay squelches her children’s and guests’ individuality in a quest to hold back time. “Life stand still here,” the character Lily Briscoe recalls the matriarch saying. In other words, the warm, maternal Mrs. Ramsay was also a smothering control freak.

Ding! Ding! Ding! That ringing in my head was what Aristotle called my moment of anagnorisis, or recognition.

Because I know I should stop mooning over those old family photos that Shutterfly keeps emailing me, in which my kids are still pliable and chubby-cheeked. And I know I shouldn’t be trying to wrestle my 13-year-old into a forced cuddle as if he were still 6. “Don’t be like Mrs. Ramsay,” I told myself. “I cannot hold life still. Remember Mrs. Ramsay.” Lo, this was bibliotherapy in action.

Through the rest of March and the first weeks of April, the days and nights of social distancing rolled into one another: The kitchen was an endless cycle of damp chopping boards and errant onion skins, pots and pans piled in

“Art and literature tell you truths about the world and about yourself that no one else can tell you.” daughter guilt churning: “As long-held secrets and private sorrows begin to reveal themselves, they are forced to wonder: how well did they actually know the woman they called Mom?” I did not derive pleasure, exactly, from Please Look After Mom, but I was sucked deep, deep inside. As I read it, all my concerns about the inanities of TikTok and my pantry’s lack of chickpeas fell away. The mother hobbling in the streets of Seoul in her broken blue plastic slippers! Her daughter, gabbing carelessly on a cellphone, eating gourmet street food, thinking only of herself! With these images in my mind, how could I ever show impatience to my own dear mother again?

When I finished the book, I knew I had to connect with my mother about it. I had to tell her how it shamed me into seeing my own selfishness. How I hadn’t shown appreciation for her. How sorry I was for not doing or saying more! But I also dreaded the conversation. So, chicken that I am, I sent her an email asking if she had read Please Look After Mom and what she thought. Here’s what she wrote back: the sink, the dishwasher churning and the dog begging for yet another walk. Whenever I could, I shut myself in my bedroom and plunged into my growing pile of novels recommended by Berthoud. (Bookstores, thank God, were still taking orders, and the post office was still delivering.)

I devoured The Summerhouse: A Trilogy by Alice Thomas Ellis, which includes a story about a young woman’s impending marriage to a man she does not love. “I thought of this for you because it is brilliant on mothers and daughters,” Berthoud had written me. Being a sucker for British domestic dramas set in grand houses where everyone is quietly seething or pining, I loved it. But it only offered the therapy of pure, diverting escapism, as the characters and relationships in the book felt far too removed from mine to be relatable.

I was looking for a book to wrestle with—a book with some thorns that might leave me, if not scratched and bruised, somehow altered. So I turned to Please Look After Mom by Kyung-Sook Shin, about an older woman from a rural Korean village who becomes separated from her family. The jacket copy alone turned my blood cold and got all my Korean-

I was comforted to find out that only a mother can be so devoted and sacrifice for her children.

Therefore I feel less sad about my mother’s misfortune and feel less guilty about my selfishness after reading this book.

I had to read it twice to understand that she wasn’t talking about me. As it turns out, when my mom read the book, she didn’t think about my shortcomings—she thought about how guilty she felt toward her own Korean mother. This came as such a relief to me that I could only laugh. Burtman was right again.

Writing this as my family continues social distancing, I’m still slowly making my way through the novels in Berthoud’s prescription, which include several meant to get inside a teenager’s head. As for the books about making it through the pandemic with sanity intact? I don’t think I need them. I’m feeling strangely calm and not a bit stircrazy—maybe it’s all the extra time I have for reading.

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5 EASY DINNERS P L A N T P O W E R E D : TA N GY B RO C C O L I S L AW B I G B AT C H : S M O K Y S H E E T PA N C L A M B A K E

ST Y L I N G BY CA R R I E PU R C E L L

J UST FO R TH E H U LL O F IT We’re not usually fans of singlefunction kitchen gadgets, but we make an exception for something this compact, efficient—and adorable.

The little claw of the Chef’n Strawberry Huller removes the leaves and core with just a quick press, twist, and pull.

Sure, a knife can do the job, but lopping off the top sacrifices precious fruit, and carefully cutting out the core can be time-consuming, especially if you’re prepping a big batch of shortcakes or jam. So make a tiny bit of room in a drawer for what’s destined to be your new summer sidekick.

TO BUY: $8; amazon.com.

Photograph by Andrew Purcell

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FOOD

Easy Dinner 1

Crispy Bacon and Egg Tacos ACTIVE TIME 25 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 25 MINUTES SERVES 4

✓ Quick Cooking ✓ Gluten-Free ✓ Family Friendly

8 slices bacon 1/2 cup white vinegar 1 tsp. sugar 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided 3 medium radishes, thinly sliced 8 large eggs, lightly beaten 8 6-in. corn tortillas, warmed 1 avocado, peeled and thinly sliced 1/4 cup packed fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems Hot sauce, for serving a large nonstick skillet over medium. Working in 2 batches, add bacon and cook, turning occasionally, until browned and crisp, about 8 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.

Discard all but 1 tablespoon drippings from skillet.

HEAT

stir vinegar, 1/2 cup water, sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt in a small saucepan over medium-high. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar and salt.

Remove from heat and stir in radishes. Let stand for 10 minutes.

MEANWHILE,

eggs and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt to skillet; increase heat to medium-high. Scramble eggs, stirring in a figure-8 pattern, until curds are just set and fluffy, 2 to 4 minutes.

1 bacon slice on each tortilla. Top with eggs, avocado, pickled radishes, and cilantro.

Serve with hot sauce.

PLACE

PER SERVING: 575 Calories, 41g Fat (12g Saturated), 409mg Cholesterol, 6g Fiber, 23g Protein, 30g Carbs, 1,250mg Sodium, 3g Sugar (2g Added)

Recipes by Ivy Odom 1 1 4 R E A L S I M P L E J U LY 2 02 0

Photographs by Andrew Purcell

ST Y L I N G BY CA R R I E PU R C E L L

ADD

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It’s the real ingredients that make Special K really tasty.

Easy Dinner 2

Grilled Pizza with Chicken and Peach ACTIVE TIME 15 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 25 MINUTES SERVES 4

✓ Quick Cooking ✓ Family Friendly

Olive oil, for grill grates and peach 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese 2 Tbsp. heavy whipping cream 2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 peach, pitted and halved 1 lb. fresh pizza dough, stretched and rolled into a 14-in. round 8 oz. mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 2 cups), divided 1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion Fresh basil, torn, for serving grill to high (450°F to 500°F) and lightly oil grates.

Combine ricotta, cream, and garlic in a small bowl.

PREHEAT

cut sides of peach with oil.

Grill, cut sides down, uncovered, until grill marks appear, about 1 minute. Transfer to a cutting board and thinly slice. Place dough on grates; grill, uncovered, until bottom is set and grill marks appear, about 2 minutes. Remove crust from grill; invert onto an unrimmed baking sheet, grill marks facing up. Reduce grill temperature to medium (350°F to 400°F).

BRUSH

ricotta mixture on grillmarked crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella. Top with chicken, onion, peach slices, and remaining 1 cup mozzarella.

SPREAD

pizza onto grates; grill, covered, until crust bottom is crisp and cheese is melted, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board. Let stand for 5 minutes.

Top with basil and slice.

S LIDE

PER SERVING: 683 Calories, 29g Fat (15g Saturated), 102mg Cholesterol, 9g Fiber, 44g Protein, 62g Carbs, 998mg Sodium, 4g Sugar

FOOD

grill to medium (350°F to 400°F) and lightly oil grates.

Brush eggplants and bread on both sides with 3 tablespoons oil; set bread aside. Season eggplants on both sides with 1 teaspoon salt. Grill eggplants, uncovered, flipping once, until soft and grill marks appear, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board; let cool completely, about 15 minutes.

Cut into 3/4-inch pieces.

PREHEAT

Easy Dinner 3

Eggplant Panzanella ACTIVE TIME 25 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 40 MINUTES SERVES 6

✓ Make Ahead ✓ Big Batch ✓ Vegetarian

2 small eggplants, cut lengthwise into 1-in.-thick planks 12 oz. day-old sourdough bread, cut into 1-in.thick slices 9 Tbsp. olive oil, divided, plus more for grill grates 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided 3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice (from 2 lemons) 1 tsp. Dijon mustard 4 oz. baby kale (about 4 cups) 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill 2/3 oz. Manchego cheese, shaved (about 1/2 cup)

eggplants cool, grill bread, uncovered, flipping once, until grill marks appear, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board; let cool for about 10 minutes. Cut into 1-inch chunks.

WHILE

lemon juice, mustard, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a small bowl.

Gradually whisk in remaining 6 tablespoons oil.

WHISK

eggplants, bread, kale, tomatoes, dill, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt in a large bowl; add dressing and toss to coat.

Top with cheese and serve.

PLACE

PER SERVING: 610 Calories, 36g Fat (6g Saturated), 5mg Cholesterol, 8g Fiber, 14g Protein, 60g Carbs, 1,327mg Sodium, 12g Sugar

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1 lb. hanger steak (1/2-to-3/4-in. thick)

Easy Dinner 4

1 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, divided 5 Tbsp. olive oil, divided 1 Tbsp. sherry vinegar 1 tsp. honey 1 1/2 cups fresh blackberries, roughly chopped 5 oz. baby arugula (about 5 cups) 1/2 cup chopped roasted salted pistachios 4 oz. goat cheese, crumbled (about 1 cup) a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Season steak with 1 teaspoon each salt and pepper, gently pressing on both sides of steak to adhere. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in skillet. Add steak and cook, undisturbed, for 4 minutes.

Flip and cook, undisturbed, until seared on other side, 4 to 5 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon oil to skillet and continue cooking steak, spooning oil drippings over steak often, until desired degree of doneness, 2 to 3 minutes for medium-rare (a thermometer inserted in thickest portion will register 122°F). Transfer to a plate; let rest for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain.

HEAT

whisk vinegar, honey, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper and 3 tablespoons oil in a large bowl.

Stir in blackberries. Add arugula and pistachios and toss to coat.

Top with steak and cheese.

MEANWHILE,

PER SERVING: 526 Calories, 38g Fat (10g Saturated), 52mg Cholesterol, 5g Fiber, 34g Protein, 13g Carbs, 866mg Sodium, 6g Sugar (1g Added)

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Speedy Steak and Blackberry Salad ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 30 MINUTES SERVES 4

✓ Quick Cooking ✓ Gluten-Free

FOOD

1 tablespoon oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium.

Season fish with pepper and 3/4 teaspoon salt. Cook in skillet, undisturbed, for 7 minutes. Flip and cook until golden on other side and a thermometer inserted in thickest portion registers 140°F, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate and let rest for about 5 minutes.

HEAT

1 lb. baby potatoes 12 oz. sugar snap peas, trimmed 3 Tbsp. olive oil, divided

Easy Dinner 5

Swordfish with Potatoes ACTIVE TIME 30 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 35 MINUTES SERVES 4

4 6-oz. skinless swordfish steaks 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 1 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1/2 tsp. lemon zest plus 1 Tbsp. fresh juice (from 1 lemon) 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 Tbsp. drained capers, coarsely chopped

✓ Gluten-Free a large pot of water to a boil. Add potatoes and boil until tender when pierced with a fork, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a medium bowl with a slotted spoon. Add snap peas to boiling water and cook until crisptender, about 5 minutes. Drain peas; add to potatoes in bowl.

BRING

lemon zest and juice and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 2 tablespoons oil in a small bowl. Pour over potatoes and peas and toss to coat. Add mayonnaise and capers to bowl lemon mixture was whisked in; stir until combined. Serve capermayo with fish and potato-pea mixture.

WHISK

PER SERVING: 640 Calories, 42g Fat (7g Saturated), 124mg Cholesterol, 5g Fiber, 37g Protein, 25g Carbs, 992mg Sodium, 5g Sugar

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FOOD

Plant Powered

Tangy Broccoli Slaw T O S S T H E W H O L E H E A D O F T H I S P O W E R H O U S E V E G G I E — STA L K A N D A L L ! — I N T O A F R E S H , C R U N C H Y, V E R S A T I L E S I D E .

By Ananda Eidelstein

ACTIVE TIME 20 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 20 MINUTES SERVES 4

1 cup plain unsweetened kefir 2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar 1 tsp. pure maple syrup 3/4 tsp. Dijon mustard 1 clove garlic, grated 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper 1 1/4 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1 head broccoli (about 1 lb., 3 oz.)

1 Tbsp. olive oil 1/2 cup toasted sliced almonds 1/3 cup dried sour cherries 3 Tbsp. finely chopped shallot (from 1 small shallot) kefir, vinegar, syrup, mustard, garlic, pepper, and 1 teaspoon salt in a large bowl. broiler with rack about 6 inches from heat. Cut stalk from broccoli head; peel stalk and finely chop. Finely chop one-third of broccoli crowns. Add chopped stalk and crowns to dressing.

PREHEAT

remaining broccoli crowns into florets; toss florets with oil and remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt on a rimmed baking sheet. Broil until charred in spots, 5 to 7 minutes.

Let cool for 5 minutes.

CUT

roasted broccoli, almonds, cherries, and shallot to raw broccoli in dressing and toss to coat. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

ADD

C O N S I D E R : G U T- F R I E N D LY K E F I R

Think of this creamy, fermented drink as a pourable version of yogurt. It’s packed with probiotics and low in lactose, making it easier to digest than traditional dairy. Look for unsweetened varieties to use in smoothies, overnight oats, or dressings.

Try more of our healthy vegetarian dishes at realsimple.com/plantpowered.

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Photograph by Andrew Purcell

S T Y L I N G B Y C A R R I E P U R C E L L ; P R O D U C T I M A G E C O U R T E S Y O F M A N U FA C T U R E R

WHISK

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We remain committed to the fight against hunger. Find out how you can play a part by visiting feedingamerica.org, and learn more about Kellogg’s heart and soul by visiting kelloggs.com/heartandsoul.

FOOD

Big Batch

Smoky Sheet Pan Clambake

ACTIVE TIME 10 MINUTES TOTAL TIME 40 MINUTES SERVES 8

2 lb. multicolored baby creamer potatoes 2 Tbsp. olive oil 1 tsp. kosher salt, divided 1 lb. hot Italian sausage, casings removed

T RY A N E A R LY H A N D S - O F F S H O R T C U T

6 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted

T O A S U M M E RT I M E C RO W D - P L E A S E R .

1 tsp. smoked paprika

By Ananda Eidelstein

1 tsp. celery seeds 1 lb. peeled and deveined tail-on extra-large shrimp 2 lb. mussels, scrubbed and debearded 3 lb. littleneck clams, scrubbed Chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving oven to 450°F with racks in upper and lower thirds. Toss potatoes with oil and 1/2 teaspoon salt on a large rimmed baking sheet; spread in an even layer. Tear sausage into chunks and place around potatoes. Roast on bottom rack until sausage is cooked through and potatoes are just tender, 20 to 25 minutes. Remove from oven.

PREHEAT

butter, paprika, celery seeds, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt in a bowl. Toss shrimp with half of butter mixture in a large bowl until coated. Stir shrimp into potatoes and sausage on baking sheet. Add mussels, nestling some into mixture and placing some on top.

STIR

clams in a single layer on a separate large rimmed baking sheet.

SPREAD

baking sheet with mussels and potatoes to bottom rack of oven; place clams on top rack.

Roast until all mussels and clams have opened and shrimp are pink, 12 to 15 minutes. (Discard any mussels or clams that remain shut.)

SHELL IT OUT

For a casual vibe, let folks spoon their portion, juices and all, right from the baking sheet onto their plates. Serve with steamed corn on the side (one ear per person), and pair with a crisp beer or easy-drinking wine, like sauvignon blanc or rosé.

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clams to baking sheet with mussels and potatoes. Gently toss with a large spoon. Drizzle with remaining butter mixture and top with parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

ADD

Photograph by Andrew Purcell

ST Y L I N G BY CA R R I E PU R C E L L

RETURN

Who Knew?

6 Surprising Things Google Maps Can Do T H I S H A N DY N AV I G AT I O N A P P D O E S A L O T M O R E T H A N P O I N T YO U I N T H E R I G H T D I R EC T I O N.

By Lauren Phillips

S H O W W H AT ’ S I N S T O C K R E S E A RC H G A S P R I C E S

Frequent drivers know how difficult it can be to find a gas station, especially when the car is running on empty. Google Maps lets you search for places to fuel up and displays gas prices so you can get the best deal.

S H A R E YO U R E TA

Instead of texting friends while in transit, you can send them your exact location so they know where you are every step of the way.

Yes, it becomes harder to pretend you’re en route when you’re actually still in bed, but at least everyone is in the loop while hopping around town.

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If you’re hunting for a specific item, you can make sure it’s available before heading to the store. Participating shops allow you to search their inventory directly within Google Maps.

B O O K T R E AT M E N T S , APPOINTMENTS, AND W O R KO U T C L A S S E S

You’ve been able to reserve a table at top-notch restaurants through Google Maps for a while, but you can also book haircuts, treatments, workout classes, and more at participating salons, spas, gyms, and studios. If you use Google Pay, you don’t even need to pull out your credit card.

D E L I V E R M E A L S T O YO U R D O O R

Order breakfast, lunch, or dinner anytime. The app can suggest food-delivery services in your area, along with restaurants that are open for pickup. The feature comes in handy at home, of course, but especially when you’re on the road and unfamiliar with a new city and its food offerings.

C R E AT E A N D S H A R E L I S T S

Keep track of your go-to restaurants, hotels, and other attractions by clicking on the business and selecting the Save icon. You can edit, share, and look through your lists at any time, so all your must-visits (in your home city or elsewhere) are easy to find.

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We’re a farmer-owned co-op. Have been since 1921.

We were founded on the belief of working together. Of looking out for one another.

That includes you. Today, it includes everyone.

So know that we’re doing everything we can to keep grocery shelves stocked and your family’s plates full.

Our dairy farmers are rising early, caring for their cows. Their work ethic won’t tire.

Our plant workers, truck drivers and retail partners are working together to keep food available to all.

From milking barns to your table, our farmers inspire us. Their dedication drives us.

But most of all, they remind us we’re responsible for each other. All of us.

Meet some of our farmers at landolakes.com/who-we-are © 2020 Land O’Lakes, Inc. LAND O’LAKES, the LAND O’LAKES logo, and ALL TOGETHER BETTER are trademarks of Land O’Lakes, Inc.