The Ten List: May 2025

May-cember, Stay-n Peel Lip Liner, Comfy Loafers, 30-Minute Tacos and so much more.

It’s May—or, as we’ve come to call it around here, May-cember.

The calendar is packed, the emotions are high, and somehow, everything feels like it’s happening all at once. I’ve been both dreading and looking forward to this month for what feels like forever. Maddie is graduating. We just had senior prom. We’re wrapping up her high school rowing season. And college is waiting on the other side of it all.

There’s so much joy in this moment—watching her step into the world with this calm, quiet confidence that I definitely didn’t have at her age. But there’s also this ache that’s hard to put into words. Not sadness exactly, more like the deep awareness that something big is ending. And even though it’s supposed to, even though that’s the whole point of all these years of showing up and cheering and packing lunches and driving to practice, it still catches me off guard.

I keep thinking about the journey we’ve been on—the days I stupidly wished away because there was so much going on, the nights I couldn’t sleep because middle school girls can be so mean, the endless worry, and the slow but sudden transition to her becoming this unbelievably composed, wickedly smart, funny, and self-assured young woman. She’s chatty and charming and thoughtful in a way that makes people instantly feel comfortable. And somewhere along the way—quieter than I expected and faster than I was ready for—high school turned into a season we’re actually sad to leave behind.

I never thought we’d be wrapping it up saying, “These were the best four years.” But here we are.

This month is going to be a blur. There are banquets and award ceremonies, final races, family parties, and college prep lists to start checking off. But I’m trying to stay present—really present—for as much of it as I can. Because even though this chapter is closing, I don’t want to miss a second of the ending.

So here we are: deep in the chaos, full of feelings, and wildly grateful for it all.

2. Lip-it: Lip Liner STAY-N Peel Off Tattoo

Okay, I’m officially late to the party—but I finally tried the Sacheu Stay-n Peel Lip Liner Tattoo in “Left on Red,” and it’s such a fun little beauty find. It goes on like a gloss, peels off like a face mask, and leaves behind the prettiest long-lasting blush of color. (Note: I put this all over my lips) It’s not bold or fussy—just a soft stain that makes you look a little more pulled together without even trying.

3. Splurge: Tory Burch Ballet Sport Loafer

I have these in Sand Dune (featured), but they also come in Toasted Sesame and Aria Blue. At $298, they’re definitely a splurge—but wow are they worth it. WILDLY comfortable, polished without being fussy, and the kind of shoe you can wear all day without thinking twice. An elevated everyday flat that’s as chic as it is practical.

4. Drink: Hiyo Organic Social Tonic – Variety Pack, 12 Pack

I’m always on the lookout for a good non-alcoholic sparkling drink to mix things up, and I recently discovered Hiyo. They’re fresh, flavorful, and genuinely enjoyable—not too sweet, with a subtle botanical twist that feels a little elevated. A great option to have on hand for warm weather gatherings or just a weeknight wind-down.

5. IYKYK:

@zzzachariahI think about her almost every day 💗 #customerservice #serverlife #fyp

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This cracks me up and instantly took me back to my high school job as the cashier at the neighborhood deli and beer distributor—where I occasionally sold lottery tickets and worked alongside a cast of unforgettable middle-aged characters like our bookkeeper, Barb, who smoked a pack of Virginia Slim 120s a day, carried a key ring like she was the janitor of a high school, and called me bubbie. It was chaotic, hilarious, and weirdly formative.

6. Gift: Botanical Palet in Lavender from Carrière Frères.

I'm always on the hunt for unique gift ideas—little luxuries that feel thoughtful but don’t break the bank. One of my recent favorites is the Botanical Palet in Lavender from Carrière Frères. These beautifully boxed scented wax palets are $49 and make a gorgeous hostess gift or a treat for yourself. Use them to subtly scent a space by tying one to a doorknob in the guest room, placing it in a drawer, or hanging it in your closet. Elegant, practical, and effortlessly chic.

7. Make: Chicken and Avocado Tacos with Creamy Cilantro Sauce

These are DELICIOUS and come together in under 30 minutes. I use greek yogurt for the sauce and cook the chicken in a cast iron skillet - so yummy.

8. Outfit Ideas Made Easy
Each week, I share a series of outfit ideas built around your favorite best sellers—think easy, pulled-together looks using pieces you already love (or have had your eye on). Whether you're getting dressed for everyday errands, a casual night out, or anything in between, these looks are designed to help you get the most out of your wardrobe.

You can access them all here.

9. Read: I Was a Snob About Audiobooks. Not Anymore.

While I LOVE the feeling of a real book in my heads, it appears I will not reach my book goal for the year if I don’t start supplementing with audiobooks. This article made me feel better.

10. Quote of the Month: