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Two days from 2025, issuing one final (juicy!) set of icebreakers. Please share your responses in the comments! I truly enjoy reading your responses…
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
07. The best sound in the world.
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
****
I’ll go first:
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price? On a frivolous level: tailoring, good quality ingredients (like $8 eggs, $6 bags of bronze cut pasta, high quality olive oil, European butter), the Dyson AirWrap, professional blowouts, a housekeeper (not saying their labor is not worth the cost but that it is a hefty price tag each month that we weren’t willing to pay when we were younger, but have since learned is totally worth the squeeze). But on a more philosophical level: peace of mind. This applies to so many things, including making decisions that disappoint people but better reflect my own values/desires, paying extra for something to make sure it’s done safely/correctly, running the risk of waking my children in order to check on them in the middle of the night when they are sick, removing a line from an essay that is giving me pause.
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup? Hydration, both in the form of consumed water and moisturizers. Over the summer, I had an incredible facial and the aesthetician said I needed to moisturize my skin more heavily. I hadn’t even realized I was dry! Now I apply a ton of moisture in the form of creams and oils, and I think this is the single most important factor in reducing the appearance of lines / having happy skin.
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned? Card-carrying introvert. I’ve really studied my extroverted husband and his father, who seem to put everyone around them at ease, and picked up some tips on how they interact with other people. They are both great at maintaining an easy flow and cadence in the conversation. It’s magical to me! But after years of study, I think it’s a combination of asking good follow-up questions, not interrupting people, and being comfortable with occasional pauses.
04. Your favorite weird word to say. Extraordinary. I have never been able to say this word correctly (Mr. Magpie laughs every time I try — he says I pronounce the “straord” part like “strahwrrr”) but I use it a lot. The more I stop and notice, the more extraordinary my world looks.
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious? Kale based smoothies. I crave them in the morning!
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it. A rabbit’s foot that technically belongs to Mr. Magpie. There was a stressful time in our early marriage where he’d wound down a business with one of his classmates from his MBA program and was interviewing for several jobs around the country. I now realize that I was principally anxious about leaving the DC area – all the jobs were in SF, Boston, Chicago, NYC. I came home one afternoon and saw he’d placed the rabbit’s foot on top of his cell phone, an augur for a callback. I let out a little sob — it made me see him in an entirely new light, and I’d known him for years. Just, the optimism of it, the vulnerability of it. He has always seemed so unflappable but was clearly harboring some quiet nerves over the situation. It was like a weird little door into him. And, I don’t know – it moves me still, the things we cling to as we face the unknown. To fret is to be a human; to invoke God, or fate, or a rabbit’s foot is to be a hopeful one.
07. The best sound in the world. The laughter of my loved ones. My brother’s came to mind first!
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done. I honestly can’t think of anything specific but I have definitely made us late / put a fork in plans because it takes me a good hour to get fully ready for a night out. I’ve gotten better about time management on that front as I’ve gotten older, but I can remember Mr. Magpie watching me get ready in the early years of our marriage in a kind of shock.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024. Our trip to Italy and specifically the splurge of staying at Passalacqua on Lake Como. On a product level, the Dyson AirWrap.
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done. Honestly the first third of my career is a complete mystery to me. I was opportunistic, bold, swinging wildly from limb to limb, under qualified. Perhaps this is the way of all 20 year olds. But as a recovering rule follower and people pleaser, the first few bullets on my resume astound me. Of course these all laddered up to the right path but they seem so not “me” both in what they were and in how randomly I strung them together. A year in a government consulting offshoot? An internship at an academic press? Overseeing an editorial process that produced free online courseware? Come again?
How about you?!
P.S. This year’s previous icebreakers here, here, here.
Shopping Break.
+Have been going deep into a skincare hole lately. Ordered myself these exfoliating pads after discovering them on some BeautyTok accounts!
+Obsessing over this Anine Bing jacket. Look for less here.
+Inuikii-inspired boots for your mini me. Contemplating these for my girl!
+Brushed cashmere sweatshirt.
+I shared the most gorgeous Emilia Wickstead dress last week and then discovered they are running a crazy good sale right now. Still very $$ but if you are an MOB or about to have your child Baptized or have some other important event where you want to dress elegantly / conservatively, this is the ticket. Also drooling over these shoes!
+I do not even ski but if I were skiing, I’d want an outfit from Bogner Fire+Ice and goggles from Smith.
+Ordered Mr. Magpie some “nice” tees for Christmas, including this one he’s already worn twice from Rag and Bone.
+New snowboots for my kids!
+A seriously fun dress.
+Currently reading and loving.
+Intrigued by this new-to-me label Ruti, with petite inseam options!
+Bury me in pointelle. I love it.
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
A boutique fitness class I actually enjoy, and a private ski instructor as a beginner.
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
Zo skincare glycolic acid at night
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
As an introvert with some social anxiety, I think the best thing I’ve learned over the years is to accept my personality for what it is!
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
Buddy-boo, my term of endearment for my kids.
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
Green juice with lots of ginger
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
My grandmother’s thimble collection, passed down to me.
07. The best sound in the world.
My children’s giggles.
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
Refusing to fly overseas in anything less than business class.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
Hmmm…maybe a deposit for a 10th anniversary trip to Côte d’Azur next summer.
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
Probably learning to ski the past few days, as a self-proclaimed non-athlete!
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
Ha! I feel like I use this justification too often. A house cleaner, living in a more expensive neighborhood that we love, Pilates classes, good outerwear (no such thing as bad weather, etc).
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
Moisturizer, recently the Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream.
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
I can never settle on whether I’m an introvert or extrovert, but as an adult I’ve learned two things from watching others. It is worth it to say hi first, to be the friendly one. And, I’m constantly striving to be a better listener rather than waiting for my turn to talk.
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
Inasmuch.
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
Green smoothies.
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
Either my jewelry (most of it being gifts from my husbands, parents, and grandparents), or some precious-to-me childhood toys I’ve set aside for my kids.
07. The best sound in the world.
The sound of an orchestra warming up right before a performance.
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
On a recent trip to NYC, a friend wasn’t able to make the trip due to a health issue. Our hotel tried to give away our room, and I demanded to speak to a manager for the first time in my life.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
I’m stumped! I tried to drill down on basics this year and fill holes in my wardrobe. I have been loving these pima cotton t-shirts from LL Bean (of all places) and some Agolde jeans I found on Poshmark. I also bought an Apparis coat on the realreal that is just so luxurious feeling.
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
I’m serving as Treasurer for a group I’m involved with, and it is definitely forcing this English major to exercise muscles I didn’t know I have.
Just realized I wrote “husbands.” I just have the one but the image of a plethora of husbands giving me jewelry is making me smile ha!
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
An international trip- book the flight, stay in a great hotel, have at least a few amazing meals. It will completely recalibrate your perspective long after you return stateside.
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
Moisturizer- by the boatload. Honest Beauty’s hydrogel is my go to. I don’t believe it has to be expensive, just plentiful.
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
Full-blown Labrador Retriever extrovert- I am a magnet for conversation. What I’ve learned from more reserved friends is to not give the full show at once. You learn a lot by melting into the background.
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
Contemplative- reveals the type of year I’ve had
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
Huge veg girl- I order a side of green vegetables any chance I get, especially broccoli. I’m not a total health nut, but I’m close!
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
My house- a sweet, historic cottage built in the 1920s that I simply adore.
07. The best sound in the world.
“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to New York’s LaGuardia Airport where the local time is…”
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
Ooh, she’s a diva, so a lot hahaha. The world needs more Princesses! One funny thing is with a former flame, I held up my arm from bed and made him take off all my jewelry for me. Lolll.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
Vintage, mint condition Chanel granny pumps from Loops Generation in London!
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
I’ve been on a vulnerability tour after a really tough breakup earlier this year, so have been way more emotionally open with a select group of friends and family. It’s helped me to be less good girl and more of a real person.
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
High quality glasses. Take it from someone with a very strong prescription. The best lenses distort the look of your eyes less and have more longevity. I have a lot of cheaper ones from Eyebuydirect too since my kids destroy my glasses, but my pricey lenses are the best!
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
Caudalie vinoperfect serum plus whatever face oil of the moment (usually CosRx squalane)
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
My MIL is from a family of extroverts and my family are neuroatypical introverts and man they love loudly. I love that about her/them. It’s especially noticeable at funerals, the ways they show up I would’ve almost worried about being intrusive but it’s magical to experience. I can imitate an introvert convincingly for a few hours as long as I have a quiet dark room to lie down in after!
Something I’ve taught my MIL is the importance of prep for socializing…I keep a list of names for everyone we’ve met around town/the playground and my husband and I review that note on the walk to wherever we’re going. Our best friends here have a whole network of in laws and cousins in town and it’s important to use not to forget their names! The casual acquaintance list, really. It’s funny to see the couples who have moved from acquaintances to dear friends and what my initial description of them was.
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
I say “lovely” all the time.
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
My magnesium supplement tastes like those sour Swedish gummies. It’s really actually tasty, not just good for a vitamin.
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
I have some angel ornaments framed that my nana gave me, complete with the post it in her handwriting on the back. Love her so much! I always keep her notes.
07. The best sound in the world.
My kids learning to talk. Last night at dinner my one year old looked me in the eye and enunciated “chocolate.” Or any time my son tries to pronounce “stopwatch,” that’s currently giving him trouble, poor lamb. He gave me a medal for “bestest stopwatch” last night and told me he loves me forever and ever.
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
I was 24 and about to graduate from college, but I was a rising hotshot in a well known local startup in a small city and had a lot of cocky confidence when the mood suited. It was a friend’s 30th birthday, and a male founder was hitting on her in a persistent and unwelcome way (not over any lines but monopolizing her, and soothing his ego was not how she’d wanted to spend her night) and I basically eviscerated him? Every aspect of his work and personal life. My friends say I started aggressively eating off of his plate. I remember clearly manspreading and leaning at him like a shark that’s spotted a minnow, never mind all these people were a decade my senior and established. My friends still talk about that night, and he and I actually became friendly since he was so impressed! Not a bad dude.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
H&M drymove tennis skirts!! New mom uniform unlocked. For my daughter her fur crib sheet, she loves that. And my son’s gorgeous cabin bed. I agonized over that decision for months, moving to a big bed and a shared room felt so complicated. But it’s beautifully made and exactly the cozy retreat I had hoped, and I got it on great sale.
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
Walked across a crowded room to hit on a man? Not my thing. I was 18 and fairly sheltered and I’m demisexual so usually it takes a big emotional connection to rev my engine but I saw him and felt like taking a chance on him specifically. Anyway, that’s my husband!!
Really, really enjoyed this round and all my “friends” responses.
Happy New Year Magpies!
As our leader would say,….Onward!
Echoing everyone else – I always love reading your answers & the ensuing responses. I’m posted up on the big couch at my parent’s house (post-Christmas haze continues) and asked him all of these, minus the skincare one. Some of his answers surprised me, this many years in!
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
-agree re: tailoring (both the actual price and the schlepping of stuff to the tailor, trying it all on in person, then schlepping to pick up again to pick it up and make sure it’s right, etc.)
-good meat/seafood as a treat vs. the everyday grocery store cuts (shoutout Organic Butcher in the DMV)
-minor airline seat upgrades (premium economy, exit row, etc.) on flights over 5 hours. business class rarely, but a worthy splurge if possible. i’ve never regretted it.
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
-currently, prescription antifungal and antibacterial wash, thanks to a toddler-contracted staph infection. i’ll spare you the details. otherwise, an indulgence in general skincare experimentation and unnecessary product accumulation – i embark on many trials via recs from here, among other sources!
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
-generally introvert, unless i’m with close friends. my job demands extreme extroversion, so i’ve learned to flex this muscle a fair amount, especially in unfamiliar settings. i’ve learned to just open my mouth and force a chat – it doesn’t have to be the smartest, deepest, funniest, whatever thought – just breaking the ice and continuing a conversation flow is okay. interestingly, college sorority recruitment was the first time i had to truly learn this skill (pleasantly yapping at a complete stranger and attempting to find commonalities and build a bond in minutes) and i’m grateful for that repetitive uncomfortable exercise all these years later.
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
-my friends jokingly make fun of me for always using “big words” but thanks to a voracious reading habit, it’s second nature to throw around unusual, but fitting words – too many to list!
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
-i’m one of those weird people who craves salads and loves anything “healthy”/fresh/raw/exotic etc. maybe a wheatgrass shot – intimidating in the moment but still somehow delicious.
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
-my 7x great grandmother’s federal mirror that my grandmother handed down to me a few years back. it fits our house perfectly and i love the history behind it. she wrote out each of the previous owners, back to the 1700s (!). of course, i now live in complete fear that i’ll somehow be the one to lead to its demise.
07. The best sound in the world.
-the stillness of my neighborhood when i go on night walks – almost the absence of sound, except for my footfalls and far off ambient city noise that surrounds our little pocket. it’s calmingly meditative and my absolute favorite
-when the beat drops in a trap / rap song, especially when i’m running. THE HIGH.
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
-i asked my husband, in our discussion of these, and he noted that i do a lot of “mini diva” things constantly, e.g. a starbucks stop in the opposite direction from our destination, when we’re already running late, because it’s *the good one*
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
-new loewe flamenco pouch purchased in paris. love it as both the memory of this recent trip and the culmination of a fixation that began on a trip to madrid a few years back.
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
-…been arrested.
I love it when you do these!!
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
Rugs, especially antique ones! I have the most extraordinary antique Heriz rug that felt like the most insane purchase at the time, but it truly makes the room, plus I love it deeply.
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
These days (as in fall/winter) moisturizer. I have dry sensitive skin and have had some allergic reactions to new detergents etc. this year and had to go back to basics which makes me appreciate a nice moisturizer even more than usual.
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
I’m definitely an introvert who tries to be extroverted in company, especially as this is my second year in a new town where I’ve been trying hard to make friends. It feels so awkward, but I keep telling myself to push through it. It’s a mixed bag but on the whole has been worth it.
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
Anathema! So unexpected in a modern setting but I love it. Not one word but I love betwixt and between, how fantastic.
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
Brussels sprouts, charred with salt and lemon!
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
My great-great-grandparents set of dessert plates, cups, and saucers. My grandmother had them stored away since the 1980’s (as proven by the paper they were wrapped in) and I used them for the first time on Thanksgiving. I will never be parted from them despite how stressful it is to wash them.
07. The best sound in the world.
The ocean, any time of year.
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
A little embarrassing, I upgraded myself to first class on a short flight to hit my Delta status. I have also been known to change my outfit at the absolute last minute because I’ve decided I hate whatever I’m wearing.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
A new blender, it has made life so much better. No more half-mixed banana in smoothies!
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
I quit my non-profit job in DC to move to NYC without having a job lined up or knowing anyone in the city. To this day, I am not fully sure what I was thinking, I guess that’s being 23.
Happy New Years to you and yours!!
In the spirit of something’s better than nothing (new year intention!), here are the ones I feel strongest about:
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
Real estate
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
Sunscreen (either lightweight Korean, or Supergoop Unseen)
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
Chimera
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
I prefer plain yogurt, kefir, etc. over flavored. Also roasted cruciferous veggies.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
Kitchen cabinets, which took me forever to plan/design, and pilates instruction.
Jen, re: number 8, have you heard the Brad Paisley song Waitin’ on a Woman? 🙂
I love reading these so much!
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
For the dog parents: professional one on one dog training with a good dog trainer. It’s amazing how it has deepened our bond and allows me to go anywhere with my pup.
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
Battery powered facial brush. I have used the Olay one going on ten years.
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
I am very extroverted. My introverted friends seem so much more thoughtful with both their words and actions.
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
I don’t know that I have one but my business partner manages to use “twirl” quite frequently and it always makes me smile.
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
Kale
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
I am not sure on this one either. I really don’t feel overly attached to most things even if they are sentimental in nature.
07. The best sound in the world.
Pop of a champagne cork.
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
My best friend’s birthday is the day before mine and I have thrown us some pretty extravagant birthday parties over the years. Always worth it to celebrate with all of our friends.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
Also our trip to Italy
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
Learned to mountain bike in my late 30’s. I am NOT an adrenaline junkie. I don’t go often anymore but I am still pretty proud of myself when I think back on it.
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
Winter boots. Quality boots are hard to find and it is something I keep putting off but my safety and well-being of not falling is totally worth it. Ice and snow is dangerous and beautiful all at once.
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup
The serum I use daily after washing my face prior to applying my moisturizer. This helps lock in the moisture and when I dont have a lot going on i at least apply this because my face needs to be kept in tact. I’ve also been using different body oils on my arms and legs which are terrific right after a shower.
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
I’m an extrovert. I am learning not everyone gets their energy from being around others. People enjoy spending time with me and there’s never a dull moment. It’s hard to actually notice within myself I need time alone too and I’ve been doing a better job of this by not overbooking myself as best I can and only committing to people I truly wnjoy spending time with. I do the cost-benefit analysis of things which might seem harsh but my health and mental well-being come before anyone else and it’s something I’ve been learning the past 4 practically 5 years now.
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
Hmm not sure if it’s my favorite word but my partner says I like all the time and to not say it as often as I do. Kerfuffle is one that comes to mind and I enjoy silly words and too, especially those from Mary Poppins and Cinderella.
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
I love mushrooms now. I didn’t as a child but ones taste becomes refined I think and vegetables if cooked to my preference are delicious. Sautéed or fried and roasted veggies are delish.
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
I have these handmade cookbooks which contain all my favourite recipes. I love scrapbooking and took a lot of time and effort to make them fun and used lots of stickers and embellishments. These are one of my favourite things.
07. The best sound in the world.
The sound of crickets chirping. The music within nature which is never silent and is so sweet and simple.
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
Hmm too many things to think of. So not really sure what to say which probably comes across as me being overly dramatic.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
My LA Times subscription. Having lived there I finally caved and got this and enjoy reading this and keeping up with LA/CA as well as reading the NYT which was my best purchase of 2020.
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
Speaking up for myself and doing what I felt was best. I have never had to do this in a professional environment and while this may have contributed to me being laid off with everyone else, it was important for me to speak my truth, acknowledge my feelings and I am much happier not being in a toxic workplace. I’ve found religious institutions especially Catholic ones to be the most hypocritical places to work. I’m learning to soeal up, be more direct and be honest with myself. Which might come across as being out of character because I’ve always tried to be the good girl but never seem to fit within the lines.
I always love reading these!!! The rabbit foot anecdote — there’s something so vulnerable about seeing our loved ones want something so badly and openly and earnestly.
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
The rent on my apartment! Ha! Probably way too expensive and would shock my non-NY friends but it is so worth it to me!
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
Tie between the farmacy cleansing balm (it gets rid of EVERYTHING) and my tried and true CeraVe cream moisturizer.
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
I’m a shy-ish extrovert — one thing I love that my more introverted friends and family members do is take time to be quiet, by themselves.
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
Appalling. There’s something fun about the way it feels!
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
Recently diagnosed with celiac disease, out of nowhere. Constantly surprised by how good some gluten-free things taste!
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
Hmmm. I’m really struggling with this one! I’m not someone who gets too attached to things. Probably the cards my mom saved from my baptism/first birthday though — so lovely to see how long I’ve been loved by the people nearest and dearest to me.
07. The best sound in the world.
The sound of my mom getting ready in the morning or in the evening. It’s so specific to her even though there is nothing out of the ordinary in her routine. I don’t hear it often now but recently was at home before a family party and it was just so comforting!
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
Ask to switch tables at a restaurant! I usually would NEVER do that but it was clear the meal would not be enjoyable where we were initially sitting (too hot, loud, cramped) and there were open tables nearby.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
A pair of chunky black loafers!
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
See number 8 above! Ha!
I love these! So fun to get a peek into others hearts and minds!
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
Good quality food ingredients, good quality classic everyday clothes and bedding. I am on a bid to lower my consumption of ‘things’ so I am focusing on buying ‘fewer and better’ and using everything up!
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
Vitamin C Serum – I use Mad Hippie which is a perfect base for my skin. Also prescription retinol.
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
Say yes and put yourself out there sometimes.
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
Cellar Door – it’s considered the most beautiful word / phrase in the English language, every few months I again disclose this fact to my kids just because I like to say it! Very weird.
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
Brussels Sprouts in any form.
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
A pair of earrings that my sister sent me after the birth of my first child. I live far away from family so I received many gifts in the mail for my baby, but she included earrings in her baby package and it was so touching that she thought of me when the focus for everyone was understandably on the baby.
Also from my sister (I am very lucky with siblings), years ago she send me a birthday card with a chicken in a scarf and glasses on the front with the words “You’re still a Spring Chicken” The image is one she knew I would find so funny even though our sense of humor is very different, and I am much younger than her so it fits. I have it framed by my bathroom mirror.
07. The best sound in the world.
My kids laughing.
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
I honestly can’t think of anything, not that I’m perfect by a long shot. Living in NYC for a long time trained me to stand up for myself and I wouldn’t classify myself as a people pleaser but I can’t think of anything diva-ish!
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
Honestly a trip home to Ireland to see my dad while he was still in decent health before he passed away in August. We knew he didn’t have a lot of time and it was likely to be our last visit before he went. He was in good enough health to be himself, take walks, play with the kids and chat. I will always cherish that opportunity.
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
Started needlepointing – middle age in upon me I guess!
Deirdre, sending you love and condolences at the loss of your dad. I hope the time you had with him was really special. Loss and grief is incredibly hard and distance, especially over oceans, adds an extra layer of challenge. Big hugs xx
I love these questions!
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
A housecleaner. I always feel that tiny bit lazy when ours arrives, thinking to myself that I could and probably should do it myself to save the money. But it actually buys me peace of mind and relief from the chore I dread the most, and that is priceless.
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
Sunscreen! I have literally every single risk factor for skin cancer except one (I don’t live near the equator…ha!). But really, the vanity of attempting to age gracefully keeps me religious about its use. Hey, whatever it takes!
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
Very introverted, and most of my friends are extroverts. They’ve taught me that being vulnerable with others is the best and sometimes only way to form solid connections. Opening up is hard for me, but I’ve never regretted it when I’ve pushed myself outside of my comfort zone with a friend.
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
Appreciable – as in, that won’t make an appreciable difference. I don’t know why, but I’ve never found another word that conveys just the right meaning!
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
Goji berries. They just look weird and too healthy to taste good but I absolutely love them.
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
My wedding and engagement rings.
07. The best sound in the world.
The muffled sound of everything while it’s snowing. I love going for a walk when the snow is falling. The world is just a different – better? – version of itself.
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
I don’t know if I’d call it diva necessarily, but I certainly felt spoiled when I took a 3 week vacation to Australia years ago. We were going for a friend’s wedding and figured that given the 24 hour flight it was worth it to spend some extra time really exploring. That trip was more expensive than my honeymoon! But absolutely worth it.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
I literally can’t of a single thing, but you’ve inspired me to be more thoughtful about my purchases in 2025 so I have a better answer to this question next year this time!
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
This one stumped me too, but probably to go back to the introvert/extrovert question, any time I’ve really opened up and been vulnerable with someone. I find myself having a minor panic as the words come out of my mouth, like “who AM I right now?!”
Happy New Year, friends!
Melanie, raising my hand with you on the sunscreen. The combination of prevention and not wanting to go full hobbit as the years pass is what motivates me to keep applying every day. In the summer, we definitely need a Magpie list of the chic 101 to sun protection! I basically look like a beekeeper on the beach… xx
Some of these are difficult…
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
Anything you REALLY love and want! Life is short!
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
I’ve been using this milea removing product ( https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D9QYJ92J?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title)
for two months now and really think it’s helping. Happy about that!
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
Be quiet and listen. I grew up in a large family and we were always trying to be heard, so I learned to interject too much.
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
Please and thank you. They are NEVER said enough!
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
Protein balls (Nicole Jaques recipe)
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
Easy question: my mothers paper dolls she MADE as a child with its house book, where each page was a different room in the dolls
home. The rooms are gorgeous and your imagination runs wild!
07. The best sound in the world.
Your children (through adulthood) saying “Mom”. Music to my ears
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
Splurge on vacation in everyway…hotel, food, tips, travel (still want to fly privately sometime but haven’t done THAT yet!)
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
Shoes! I’m a shoe lover and have way too many already!
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
Go to a ” Dude Ranch” with my husband (his turn to pick vacation) that turned out to be one of our most beloved vacations ever!
Funny and true story: he came home one day and told me he picked our vacation trip and it was a Dude Ranch. What?!? I threw my
Gucci purse to the floor and said, “You married the wrong girl”.
These icebreakers are always such a treat, Jen! Echoing the other Magpies of how enjoyable it is hearing everyone’s answers!
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
Too many things to name haha. Good hiking gear — I’m not outdoorsy but with a quality kit, I’m here for it totally. Flying with a premium, full-service airline (Emirates!). Artisanal cheese and charcuterie. A premium mattress and bedding. Well-made shoes. Good toilet paper (3-ply or bust!).
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
The non-negotiable triumvirate: pure jojoba oil, La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50+ Gel Cream, Weleda Original Skin Food. And just drinking endless water all day long.
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
As I’ve gotten older, I’m more likely to be anti-social but I feel like extroverted people are more likely to seize the yay of spending time with others. As Taylor Swift says in ‘the 1’, the extroverts have shown me to say — more, “yes instead of no”.
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
So many because words are one of my favourite things. Recently though, I’ve been ribbing my husband with one of my dad’s Australianisms of saying, “correctomundo” instead of just “correct”. This Wikipedia is the best explainer I have on this ridiculousness: https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/correctomundo
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
I have annoying stomach problems that mean I actually constantly crave healthy food… So my thing that most people think tastes bad is eating arugula from the bag. So much pepper!
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
My jewellery collection. I don’t have much fine jewellery but every piece is completely sentimental — wedding and engagement rings, heirloom rings inherited from my mum on landmark birthdays, earrings from my parents and mother-in-law, the vintage-style Seiko I received from my parents on my 30th birthday. They’re all so precious they feel like talismans and wearing them, I feel close to loved ones every day.
07. The best sound in the world.
The Pacific Ocean at my parents’ beach house. Lately I’ve been listening to Ocean Wave loops on Spotify for this exact reason.
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
Hahahaha, oh my gosh…it’s probably that these days if there’s a problem with a drink or it wasn’t what I ordered, I will politely see if it’s possible to change it. I feel like life is too short to either have a drink that isn’t quite right or isn’t quite what was promised — especially if it’s alcohol and/or being matched with a meal.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
For household, our Apple TV. From the media administration side of things, life is so much more peaceful at our house.
For me, my top-ranking one is my Mons Royale merino zip through. Heaven.
From gifts, my husband surprised me with birthday tickets to the Eras tour in Warsaw was it. Still processing.
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
Getting my scuba diving ticket in 2022! It was something that frightened me so much and completely changed my life.
These questions are so fun. Can’t wait to see the Magpie answers. Especially to Ques #2! Happy New Year!!
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price? Candles!
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup? My beloved Eadem Cashmere Peel Exfoliating Toner. I’m astonished at the change it has made in my skin. So much so that I even sent the company an email thanking them. It delivers what it promises!
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned? The importance of listening.
04. Your favorite weird word to say. I tend to incorporate the term ‘level set’ in my vocabulary and it drives my husband bananas, ha!
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious? Brussel sprouts!
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it. A teddy bear that was my mother’s as a child that I’ve affectionately named Montgomery. It has missing fur and a mismatched button for an eye. I wouldn’t trade him for anything.
07. The best sound in the world. Baby giggles!
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done. Not sure if this qualifies as diva, but one time made an impromptu decision to take the afternoon off from work and sneak away for a Broadway matinee. I treated myself to champagne and a big pretzel there, and being solo I was able to snag one of the best seats in the house.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024. My new holiday decoration. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation movie is a guilty pleasure. I bought the tackiest light up replica of the house. It brought me pure joy!
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
I agreed to be filmed answering trivia questions sponsored by an airline at an NFL game for free round trip tickets that was later broadcast over the Jumbotron. The horror lol!
01. Something that seems too expensive but is actually worth the price?
Great local food ( local bread, milk, beef, cheese, & eggs)plus olive oil, Italian pasta, fancy tea small cottage food products that support small businesses.
Good skincare
Unique items for the home ( antiques & vintage finds) plus quality table linens
Good hair stylist
02. Most essential product in your skincare lineup?
My beef talo moisturizer & anything Westerman Atelier, good moisturizers and lotions for sensitive skin that are clean too
03. If you are an introvert with extroverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned from them? And vice versa — if you are an extrovert with introverted friends/loved ones, what have you learned?
100 percent certified extrovert and Leo. I’ve learned something’s I come in too hot and they hit a limit of socializing so I just need to respect that and listen and read the room.
04. Your favorite weird word to say.
Aww shucks
05. Something that you would expect to taste bad (because it’s healthy) but is actually delicious?
Kale, Brussel sprouts ( if made correctly) endive.
06. Something you would never sell, no matter how much someone else was willing to offer you for it.
My grandmothers jewelry. She has since passed but she was always well dressed, put together and never left the house without her jewelry especially her signet ring with her initial on it.
07. The best sound in the world.
Laughter
08. Most “diva” thing you’ve ever done.
I can be a bit of a diva sometimes especially when I don’t want to compromise of seeing something. I’m a big diva about hiking with my husband ( I’m not a fan) but I know he loves it.
09. Favorite purchase of 2024.
I purchased this great set of enamel portraits of women from the 1800’s ( still trying to figure out how to display them) they have velvet backs and the frames are just really unique and different
10. The most out of character thing you’ve done.
Became a PTA president never again