Hey everyone,
Thank you so much for being here! I wanted to share what I’ve been up to lately…
Recent Writing
“Back to Normal” is a reflection on receiving a mask in the mail for my pandemic baby, who’s now a pandemic toddler. I’m a bit scared to share it. It's not positive or inspiring. It offers no solutions or great ideas. But it’s real, and it’s how I feel, so I’m putting it out there. I hope it makes someone else feel less alone. You can read it here.
Books I’m Abuzz For
Sorry, Bro - Taleen Voskuni - my dear friend Taleen’s debut novel comes out in January from Berkley Romance and you can pre-order it now! I adore the gorgeous cover by Chicago-based artist Liza Rusalskaya and the book is a pure delight, full of heart, hope, and wickedly funny lines. Please pre-order, suggest to your local library, or request a digital copy on NetGalley.
ACE: What Asexuality Reveals about Desire, Society, and the Meaning of Sex - Angela Chen - I read this for my work book club and it is really fascinating, with lots to think about and unpack when it comes to sex, intimacy, desire, consent, and societal norms. A must-read on the road to dismantle the patriarchy.
Funny You Should Ask - Elissa Sussman - Celebrity commentary, nostalgia, an idyllic mountain setting, adorable puppies, a struggling writer, and a Hollywood heartthrob? SIGN. ME. UP. Loved this one!
What I’m Streaming Right Now
Rutherford Falls, Season 2 - Available on Peacock
It’s Not You (web series) - I love this stylish, sweet, and funny series by my friend, multi-hyphenate creator Alison Guessou
thirtysomething*
*Not available on streaming, I’ve been borrowing DVDs from the local library and OMG I need to talk to someone about this show
Creative Tip of the Week
Try something new! It could be something small, like taking a different way home or watching a movie outside your preferred genre. Or it could be bigger, like taking a salsa lesson or visiting a city you’ve never been to before. Expand your perspective by spending a little time outside your comfort zone. If you try something new this week, I’d love to hear from you! Drop me a line: elyse.moretti@gmail.com
What is this Substack thing, anyway?
To be honest, I’m still figuring it out. I wanted a way to send periodic updates to friends, family, and fellow readers/pop culture aficionados in a streamlined way, and Substack makes it simple.
I’ll only write when I have updates to share, and no more than once a quarter (max. of 4 emails per year). I’ll probably forget about this Substack for long swaths of time and you won’t hear from me for a year or two.
Despite my inconsistent tendencies, I’d love for you to sign up, and if it turns out not to be your jam, you can always unsubscribe. I also welcome your feedback if there’s more content you want to see - i.e., more cocktail recipes, more binge-watch recs, etc. Looking forward to hearing what you think!
And finally, my drink of the summer… A Blended Campari (inspired by Natalie Moretti and Stanley Tucci)
1 oz gin
1 oz Campari
1 oz red vermouth
Blend with ice & serve immediately.
That’s all! If you liked what you read, I hope you’ll subscribe or share with a pal.