An Unforgettable Gift
Oct 29, 2025
I know it's Halloween week, but I'm living in a Thanksgiving mindset already. While we are hosting my mom's entire family this year (23 people and counting) and that takes some serious prep work, the real reason I'm jumping the gun is that I have no shortage of gratitude right now, and for that I am even more grateful!
Last week I received the sweetest gift. I have a neighbor who subscribes to my email newsletter, and last week's email made her feel seen. She came to my door offering three beautiful red maple leaves as a thank you. It was a simple, quiet gesture that I'm still thinking about days later. There is no greater compliment than to know someone was thinking of you, saw something beautiful in nature, and brought it to your doorstep. I deeply value this gift, and will remember it always.
I just finished reading a lovely book called The Correspondent, a novel about an aging woman who communicates with the world through letter writing. I couldn't help but think that the fictional heroine Sybil Van Antwerp would have been positively delighted with this gift of vibrant red leaves, and tucked them away wrapped in paper for safekeeping. So that's what I did.
I share this to say that if you are putting off writing that thank you letter, write it. If you are fretting over a perfect gift for someone special, the gift of time or simple gestures of kindness are always the answer. And if someone is on your mind, let them know. It matters.
With that said, here's what's going on this week in the menopause world, and what I am loving this week (so much):
MENOPAUSE STUFF
- The FDA approved a new non hormonal drug called Elinzanetant to relieve hot flashes. Read more in this very informative Substack by Dr. Lauren Streicher here.
- The Queen of Menopause herself, Dr. Mary Claire Haver, released a new podcast last week that debuted at #1 in Health and Wellness on Apple Podcasts. Way to make an entrance and prove that people WANT TO KNOW more. Listen here.
- I love this article on how Gen X broke open the conversation on menopause. Represent!
WHAT I'M LOVING RIGHT NOW
*Some links below are commissionable, which means I make a very small kickback if you choose to buy. I never EVER share anything I don't use and genuinely recommend.
- These beautiful and hydrating hand soaps by Tsoji have converted me from mindless handwashing to veritable hand soap ritual. Cold processed with restorative herbs, if you try them you'll know why I'm never going back (Shou Wu and Ginger is my favorite).
- Brandi Carlisle has a new album out. In this conversation with her wife, she shared about how this album is about "the middle," and that really spoke to me.
- For midlife ladies who just want some good decaf coffee so they can sleep: I recently learned of this decaf coffee roaster and I'm very excited. They ship to you within 24 hours of roasting (what!?)- it's truly small batch and I'm delighted to finally find a brand that gives decaf the attention it deserves! The Midnight Mirage Signature Blend is calling my name.
- I have a working fireplace. It's glorious.
- I'm still shopping for my house, and have discovered Pittsburgh Antiques, where I got deliberately lost last weekend for a few hours. I bought a narrow side table for my fireplace room and a hall table for my second floor hallway. I'm embracing my Lady of a Certain Age tendencies and loving every minute of it.
I am grateful to YOU for being part of my world, and I always love hearing from you when you feel inclined to drop a hello. Be well, and see you soon.
Erika
Stay connected with news and updates!
Join my mailing list to receive the latest news and updates.
Don't worry, your information will not be shared.
I will never sell your information, for any reason.
