The March Edit

This weekend at the gallery opening of Michael Perry’s “Joyology,” at the Wilson Arts Center through April 24

Now that March is here, I can say it- January and February get a bad rap for good reason. The short days, cold weather, and lack of vibrancy we miss in the flowers, trees, grass… those two months aren’t for the faint of heart. It feels like spring is solidly underway, and I couldn’t be happier for it. The month also marks International Women’s Day, which I think is worth celebrating until April (and beyond.) It’s been really nice to see so many women I admire celebrating the women that inspire them. Who runs the world? Girls.

Now, a few things taking up space in my mind and on my calendar this month.

Reading: Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

My Mom left this book for me over Christmas, citing it as one of her absolute favorites. I saved it for my trip to Mexico, and boy did it deliver. Our conversations, televisions, and inboxes are filled with negative news right now. Most days, the world feels downright scary. Remarkably Bright Creatures is a gorgeous story that proved a perfect intermittent escape. Told in part from the perspective of Marcellus, a Giant Pacific Octopus, this novel is filled with meaningful connection.

And if you haven’t seen the documentary My Octopus Teacher yet, consider these complementary assignments.

Art in Bloom, 2019

Attending: Art in Bloom at the NC Museum of Art, March 19 - 23

For all of my North Carolina friends, if you don’t already have tickets to Art in Bloom, I highly suggest you get on it. You don’t have to be an art or floral aficionado to have an incredible time at this annual event. It’s an absolute celebration of spring, and a great reason to get out and support our local art museum. More than 30 unique floral interpretations of favorite works in the West Gallery. Six large scale installations outdoors in the museum’s park. A can’t-miss delight for the senses.

Watching: Anora

I didn’t see as many of the Academy Award-nominated films this year by the time the Oscars aired as I had hoped. But we did finally get around to watching Anora, Best Picture winner (along with four other Oscars, including Best Actress) and wow. Mikey Madison’s performance as Annie, a sex worker from Brooklyn who meets and impulsively marries the son of a Russian oligarch, is worthy of the hype. A raw look into the juxtaposition of sex workers and the sometimes extremely wealthy men that seek their services. I’m still processing that final scene. What were your favorite movies of the past year?

Following: @reathdesign

I’m completely obsessed with the work of Frances Merrill of Reath Design. I admire her fearless use of color, pattern, texture and art. Her style is pure fun with a heavy dose of sophistication. 1st Dibs profiled Merrill recently for their Designer Spotlight column. A great read and reminder for us all to ditch the neutrals in favor of something more mood-evoking from time to time. That butter yellow kitchen actually has me craving a baguette.

Listening: Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso

Choosing a favorite podcast is, for me, like I imagine picking a favorite child might be. But Sam Fragoso’s Talk Easy, with new episodes released every Sunday, is up there with the very best. His interview style is both highly sensitive and intuitive; his level of research often shocks his guests. Fragoso has interviewed brilliant writers, directors, actors, and politicians. And I know I’m not the only listener enamored with his voice.

I loved his recent interview with Anora star Mikey Madison. Other favorites include culture writer Jia Tolentino, cookbook author Alison Roman, novelist Zadie Smith, and a special episode where Sam finds himself on the other side of the mic. Treat yourself to an hour of one of Sam’s captivating conversations.

Wander-lusting: Hotel Esencia

Some people respond best to physical touch, for others it’s acts of service. Maybe you’re a gifts guy or gal. A little while back, my husband and I decided my love language is almost certainly high end hotels. I’m not proud of the hours of my life spent scrolling away through gallery photos of hotels I can’t afford, but hey. We all have our kinks. There’s something aspirational in doing a deep dive on, say one of the World’s 50 Best Hotels. Really, permission to try it.

This month, I’m dreaming of a long weekend at Hotel Esencia, a 50-acre estate between Tulum and Playa Del Carmen. The Sunday Times has called it, “the most heavenly hotel on earth.” Once the private home of an Italian Duchess, Hotel Esencia is “ideally situated far from huge resorts and the roar of pleasure boats, the immaculate bay of Xpu-Ha is a natural haven where each year sea turtles make their nests.” Their website is super fun, too. I’m putting this one out there in the Universe. Also to my husband. (Please?)

What’s been your favorite hotel experience? I would love to hear in the comments.

Anemone Babies. We had triplets.

Thanks for reading. Wishing everyone a very happy March!

xx, Jess