Can you believe we’re already saying goodbye to April? This month has flown by, and while New York is still shaking off its stubborn chill, I’m clinging to every hint of sunshine we get. Wherever you are, I hope you’re soaking in warmth on my behalf—please send a little our way!
As I close out the month, I’ve been reflecting on the small joys that carried me through the weeks. Some are beauty discoveries, others are comfort recipes, and a few are simply the everyday things that spark gratitude. I thought I’d gather them here—my April favorites—to share with you. And if you stick around to the end, I’ll let you in on a few “forever favorites” too.
A New Ritual: Jade Rolling for Tension & Glow
Stress leaves its fingerprints on everyone differently—some feel it in their shoulders, others in their lower back. For me, it’s my jaw. It locks up, puffs up, and sometimes even aches from holding tension there. A few months back, Colin gave me an impromptu (and admittedly intense) jaw massage that made such a difference overnight. The next morning, one side of my face looked visibly less swollen and tight.
That little discovery sent me down a rabbit hole, and now I’ve fully embraced the jade roller as part of my morning and evening routine. Mine is a highly rated one I found on Amazon, made with 100% natural jade. I glide it over my face, pressing extra on my jawline, and the results mirror that massage—less puffiness, more circulation, and a noticeably relaxed face.
Tip: Some people keep their jade rollers in the fridge, but I’ve found that running it under cold water for a few seconds works just as well. Using it chilled is like giving your face a mini cold compress: soothing, refreshing, and incredibly calming.
The Art of Ring Stacking
Jewelry, for me, is an extension of storytelling. Lately, I’ve been having so much fun with delicate ring stacks. It’s a creative way to style pieces you love and bring a bit of personality to your everyday look.
Here’s my quick guide if you’re curious about trying it:
- Start with a statement piece. Choose a ring with sculptural or standout details.
- Layer a companion. Add a slimmer band beside it, ideally one that complements the shapes of your main ring.
- Build dimension. Mix in thin bands—these act as “connectors” that balance out designs and make the whole stack flow naturally.
- Finish with a signet. I like using a petite one so it harmonizes with the rest of the rings instead of overpowering them.
The beauty of stacking is that there’s no rulebook. It’s about what feels right for you, and every combination is a reflection of your style in that moment.
Skincare Favorites: Sheet Masks for Sensitive Skin
My skin has been extra temperamental lately—reacting to new products in unpredictable ways. (Case in point: a seemingly harmless eyeshadow left me with painfully swollen eyelids. Not fun.) Because of that, I’ve been leaning on my tried-and-true sheet masks that never let me down.
- Erno Laszlo Sensitive Hydrogel Masks – They come in two pieces, top and bottom, for a contoured fit and calm irritation beautifully.
- SK-II Facial Treatment Mask – Saturated with hydrating essence, this one is a skin drink that leaves me glowy for days.
- Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mask – Coconut-derived and deeply hydrating, it plumps and soothes like nothing else.
I rotate between these three weekly, usually after exfoliating with my favorite gentle scrub. They’re also a travel staple—nothing feels better than a sheet mask after a long flight.
In the Kitchen: Colin’s Gluten-Free Pasta
For as long as I can remember, I’ve dealt with stomach issues. From ulcers in college to recurring digestive problems now, it’s been a long journey. Recently, I’ve started eliminating gluten to see if it might be part of the problem. Too early to tell, but the silver lining is that it’s nudged us into more home cooking.
By “us,” I really mean Colin. He’s been my rock through this process and, luckily for me, a fantastic cook. His gluten-free pasta dish has become a staple—comforting, flavorful, and honestly so good you’d never guess it’s gluten-free.
Here’s a taste of the recipe: thick-cut bacon crisped to perfection, caramelized onion petals, tomato paste cooked until rich and dark, and gluten-free elbow pasta folded into the sauce with butter. Finished with oregano, pecorino, and a drizzle of chili oil—it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Forever Favorites: Cats & Gratitude
No monthly favorites list would be complete without Sammie and Sherlock. They’re perched by me right now as I type, full of sass and sweetness in equal measure.
I’ve said it before, but Sammie truly changed my life. He came into it at a time when I felt heavy with “the blues,” and slowly, his presence nudged me into healthier choices and lighter days. Sherlock joined later, and together they bring so much laughter, chaos, and comfort.
I know I sound like the ultimate cat mom—I tell them daily how grateful I am for them. They’re not just pets; they’re family. And with family, you get it all: the fights, the cuddles, the hilarious quirks, and the irreplaceable love.
As April winds down, I’m holding onto these little joys—rituals that ground me, flavors that comfort me, and companions (furry and human) who make life feel richer. Thank you, as always, for reading along and letting me share pieces of my world with you. Here’s to May bringing us all warmth, renewal, and maybe a little extra sunshine.
