Weekend 2.22

If there’s one thing America should be proud of, it’s our National Parks. They’re…magic. Never have I felt so connected to [waves hands around] the generations before me, the universe itself – as I have while visiting a National Park. It’s centering and humbling and awe-inspiring at any age. Even when my boys were small, they seemed to innately understand that there’s magic in these parks.

It’s mind-boggling to think that we, as Americans, are lucky enough to live among towering mountains and ancient forests, that we could walk cold, misty coastlines or desert canyons carved over eons. These diverse, precious spaces are worth protecting.

And Gang, I’m worried about our National parks. Granted, I’m worried about a lot of things right now, but the massive cuts that just happened to the staff at our National parks are worth talking about. While it looks like Trump rolled some of the cuts back after massive public outcry (thank goodness), I fear the biggest risk to the parks is yet to come: privatization.

On Feb 3, an executive order called “Unleashing American Energy,” was issued that directed “the removal of impediments imposed on the development and use of our Nation’s abundant energy and natural resources by the Biden administration’s burdensome regulations.”

This new EO – in addition to revoking previous executive orders like, “Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad” – calls for actions “to offer more parcels of the public land for oil and gas leasing, including through quarterly lease sales, or additional lease sales.”

Growing up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, I know firsthand what happens to mining communities once resources have been exhausted. It’s not pretty, and something I wouldn’t wish on anyone.

So. If you are also worried about our parks, think about emailing – or, better yet, calling – your congressman. The NPCA has some handy online forms – here’s one to support park staff, here’s another to protect parks from drilling.

And while I hate to link to a reddit thread (gahhh I KNOW), this one does have some really good, specific ideas on how to support our parks right now, including advice from a federal worker. Take it with a grain of salt, as always, but I did find it really helpful.

Now, onto our usual fun stuff….

FINALLY. Social Threads quickly sold out of my favorite Risen Jeans, The Mila, last fall (see them on me, here), but they’re now they’re back and fully stocked. They’re perfectly executed straight-leg jeans: not too tight, not overly loose, with a medium-blue wash. And? They’re only $69.

I vacation in Italy vibes. This dress. 100% cotton and under $120, too.

On sale: Vintage-inspired raincoats. I have this chic, Jane Post raincoat and it is…epic. Not only does it work in an absolute downpour, but it’s so playful and unexpected – I highly recommend. Jane Post has been designing raincoats since the 60’s, which is why they all have a nostalgic feel + high-quality attention to detail. Another Jane Post option (also on sale), is this raincoat-trench with a wool-liner for extra warmth. These are really special pieces.

To wear with dark wash jeans: this top. Bonus points if the jeans are wide-legged and cropped.

So nonchalantly cool. This Staud dress.

Which reminds me...that super comfy, stretchy Staud dress (the one that looked good on every. single. one. of my friends) is finally on sale. The model pic is wildly misleading – see how it really looks here.

Apres Ski Boots, 40% off. I tried on these waterproof UGGs (with contrasting laces) as part of our big Winter Boot Guide, and loved them. If you’re still dialing in an apres ski look, these are seriously cute (as well as lightweight, waterproof, grippy sole). Size up a half size.

TUMI Replacement? I’ve carried TUMI backpacks for years – I’ve never found anything better for travel, or even just walking to/from the office with all of my tech stuff plus workout gear. I had a brief flirtation with this Aer backpack, but as soon as summer hit, the straps were too scratchy on my bare arms (my boys love it, tho). Now I’m seriously considering this Calpak backpack. Not only is it sooo pretty, but it has much more room in the duffle part, too. Anyone have a Calpak??

Although…this TUMI is, admittedly, very cool.

For some reason I never like swim cover-ups, but I’d wear this little dress (without the matching shorts, obvi).

A good floral print is hard to find, but this top has it.

And/or/also…that same pretty floral comes in a skirt (but the plus size styling is better).

What I’m reading now: Metal Slinger. It’s fast, fun, and unputdownable.

Enjoy your weekend….

xo,

S