Wishing you a weekend filled with beauty and joy! But here’s where it gets interesting—while some of us are cozying up with friends, crunching through fall leaves, and savoring New Haven pizza, others might be wondering how to make the most of these fleeting days. Let’s dive into a few gems from around the web that might just spark inspiration or a smile.
First up, a heartwarming gesture: We invited our restaurant waiter to Thanksgiving dinner—a story that’s as unexpected as it is touching. Check it out here (https://joannagoddard.substack.com/p/thanksgiving-extra-guest). And speaking of gratitude, I’m curating tomorrow’s edition of one of my favorite newsletters (https://www.thegoodtrade.com/the-daily-good-x-joanna-goddard/). Subscribe for free and join the fun!
Food for thought—or just for your plate: Honeynut squash potato fritters (https://www.dinneralovestory.com/honeynut-squash-potato-fritters/?utmsource=substack&utmmedium=email) are calling my name this season. And while we’re on the topic of cozy comforts, this sweater (https://gap.igs4ds.net/094LWP) is practically begging to be my winter uniform. What’s your go-to winter staple?
And this is the part most people miss: British mushy peas (https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/05/magazine/mushy-peas-recipe.html?unlockedarticlecode=1.y08.9sY7.dVgX2HDn8gTP&smid=url-share) might sound unassuming, but they’re a game-changer. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. (NYT gift link included!)
Controversial question alert: Should houses wear jewelry (https://alilabelle.substack.com/p/your-house-needs-jewelry)? It’s a bold statement, but one that’s sparking conversations about personalizing our spaces. What’s your take?
Shifting gears, Marlon Brando’s impact on acting (https://kottke.org/25/11/how-marlon-brando-changed-acting) is undeniable. His ability to convey emotion through subtle contradictions—like eyes pleading for care while words dismiss it—is pure genius. Have you ever been moved by an actor’s unspoken moments?
Book lovers, unite: My friends can’t stop raving about Buckeye (https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=92005&awinaffid=109390&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fbookshop.org%2Fp%2Fbooks%2Fbuckeye-a-read-with-jenna-pick-a-novel-patrick-ryan%2F2f797dff8597226f%3Fean%3D9780593595039%26next%3Dt). Have you read it? What’s your verdict?
A sobering observation: Why are city benches becoming more hostile (https://kottke.org/25/11/why-city-benches-are-becoming-more-hostile)? It’s a question that challenges us to think about urban design and inclusivity. What’s your experience with public spaces?
On a lighter note, Pamela Anderson’s timeless beauty (https://intothegloss.com/2025/10/pamela-anderson-sonsie-garden-pop-up-nyc) continues to inspire. Her joyful era is a reminder to embrace life’s moments. And for a quick laugh, this article (https://reductress.com/post/report-mom-thinks-that-waiter-really-liked-her/) is pure comedy gold.
Exciting news: Our CoJ holiday gift guides kick off this Monday! Stay tuned for thoughtful picks that’ll make your season merry and bright.
Lastly, reader insights that hit home:
- Melina shares how she helps her kids embrace imperfection by retelling stories of their early struggles, like learning to walk. It’s a beautiful reminder of resilience. (https://cupofjo.com/2025/11/03/bat-miztvah-mother/)
- Melanie is putting herself out there by attending a reading in Napa and hopes to connect with like-minded folks. If you’re there, say hi! (https://cupofjo.com/2025/11/04/a-giggly-evening-with-kate-baer)
- Samantha, expecting her first baby, sums up her winter checklist perfectly: “Snuggle baby. End of list.” (https://cupofjo.com/2025/11/06/a-very-low-key-winter-checklist/)
(Photo by Kateryna Hliznitsova/Unsplash.)
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Thought-provoking question to end on: What’s one small thing you’re doing this weekend to make it beautiful? Share your plans in the comments (https://cupofjo.com/2025/11/07/have-a-beautiful-weekend-24/#comments)—let’s inspire each other!
