While You Weren't Sleeping…

Goldilocking, crying while laughing, budget-friendly kitchens, and an architect’s creative playground.

Catching up…

I haven’t been sleeping this week. My daughter had her tonsils and adenoids removed on Monday, and it’s been like slipping back in time to the infant and toddler years. I’ve been waking up in the middle of the night, coaxing her from deep sleep to take her 10ml of Tylenol and ibuprofen.

The reason for the removal was sleep apnea. Birdie has never been a good sleeper, and we found out why. Her adenoids were blocking 90% of her nasal passages! No wonder she could wake the whole house with her snores. The first thing she said after surgery was, “I can breathe better.” Which says something, considering the swelling and inflammation is still pretty bad. 

So, now she’s sleeping, and the snoring has improved (already!), and I cannot wait for her to be back to 100%. She says she can “smell things now—pickles, mommy’s weird lunches, metal and money (wtf?)” which breaks my heart and makes me laugh at the same time.

Speaking of laughing while crying…

The Barbie movie. I assume everyone has seen it, and I loved it. It takes a special kind of genius (looking at you, Greta Gerwig) to get us from belly laughing to gut-punched within seconds of one another. I had visceral reactions to many moments, from the confidence in each Barbie as she accepted accolades, awards, and compliments, to the hatred and violence against women Barbie inherently *feels* in the real world. The movie reminded us why the art of visual storytelling cuts through whatever cognitive dissonance we find ourselves in. At times I didn’t know why I was on the brink of tears, but there they were. They say we often feel the truth and validation of experiences we’ve brushed aside for years in our bodies, not in our heads, and I think that’s why so many of us have been moved by this film. I am excited to see it again.

Last week’s House Call…

In Substack Chat (and on Instagram), House Call subscribers discussed the benefits of creative practices and how we get in the way of what makes us feel better. Readers resonated with the concept of “Goldilocking” in last week’s paid newsletter. Here's an excerpt:

I began looking for ALL the ways I would “Goldilocks” in my daily life. Where was my time going? Where was my energy going? I was spending hours thinking about the work I was going to do and by the time I was done getting everything “just right,” I had no energy to make the very thing that had passed all my requirements in the first place.

When I see myself “Goldilocking,” I know it’s time to just make a decision. To go with my intuition and start. I’ve learned I figure things out by being IN them. By making the leap, starting the essay, putting the concept together. The flow comes and the thing gets done. 

If you like topics like this one, please consider upgrading to a House Call paid membership! It’s how I’m able to do more of this (writing and creating) and less sponsored content. Thank you to everyone who has become a paid supporter of my work.

Reading: But What If We’re Wrong? by Chuck Klosterman. Klosterman explores various topics and challenges our current beliefs present by imagining how they might be perceived in the future. I loved the podcast I wouldn’t be so sure About and find the process of unpacking biases incredibly freeing (and healing as a recovering people-pleaser). His book covers everything from cultural norms to scientific theories, inviting us to question our assumptions and consider alternative perspectives—something I think everyone should be doing! 

Watching: The BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice because Greta Gerwig nailed it: I told my friends over drinks that it was my favorite thing to watch late at night when I was sad a couple of weeks ago. We all get Depression Barbie.

Eating: I’ve been rolling things between deli meat—things like Havarti cheese, cornichons and whole grain mustard and salami. It’s not a recipe at all but immensely satisfying and easy when you’re in a transitional season of life and cooking just feels like one too many things to add to your plate. I’ve been dipping these little meat rolls in an Italian dipping oil made by whisking together Graza olive oil, oregano, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. 

Wearing: I have been living in these workout tops I found on Amazon. I bought them in a couple of colors and find myself reaching for them daily. 

Looking forward to: Sleeping uninterrupted again…

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Reader Question:

How do I figure out the best kitchen layout that is super functional but won't break the bank?

My Answer:

Designing a functional and budget-friendly kitchen layout is achievable. It just takes a bit of planning and knowing what matters most to you! Here are some things to consider: 

1. Plan and prioritize: Before diving into any renovations, take the time to plan out your layout and identify your priorities. Consider how you'll use the space and what elements are most important to you. Do you want to use a special marble for your countertop? Maybe look at prefab cabinets. Do you want to customize your storage? Consider a budget-friendly flooring option. This will help you allocate your budget wisely.

2. Keep the existing footprint: If possible, stick with the current layout and avoid moving plumbing and electrical elements. This can save you significant costs, as reconfiguring these elements can be expensive.

3. DIY where possible: Take on some tasks yourself, like painting cabinets or installing backsplash tiles. There are plenty of DIY tutorials available online that can guide you through these projects, saving you money on labor costs.

4. Shop smart: Look for budget-friendly options when it comes to appliances, fixtures, and materials. Consider shopping at discount stores, checking out online marketplaces, or exploring secondhand options. Don't forget to compare prices and take advantage of sales and promotions.

5. Focus on functionality: Invest in quality items that will enhance the functionality of your kitchen, such as a sturdy countertop, durable flooring, and efficient lighting. These elements are worth allocating a larger portion of your budget to ensure long-term satisfaction.

6. Consider open shelving: Instead of installing upper cabinets, opt for open shelving. It's a trendy and cost-effective way to display your dishware while also making the kitchen feel more spacious.

7. Get creative with backsplash: Instead of using expensive tiles for the entire backsplash, consider using affordable alternatives like peel-and-stick tiles, beadboard, or even a fresh coat of paint. These options can save you money while still adding visual interest.

8. Don't overlook small details: Sometimes, it's the small changes that can make a big difference. Update cabinet hardware, replace outdated faucets, and add new lighting fixtures to give your kitchen a refreshed look without a hefty price tag.

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Space of the Week

Here's a little peek at the endlessly inspiring Los Angeles home of architect Ray Kappe. I highly suggest you read the entire feature over on Dwell Magazine.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend.