Newsletter #16

January 12, 2025

Hi there,

As a team that is made up mostly of Californians, these devastating wildfires have hit close to home. So, today’s editor’s note is a pause as we think about all those affected by these fires and share some resources if you’d like to donate or learn more.

Otherwise, read on for:

🍸️ Non-alc alternatives to Casamigos
🧘 Something for (at-home) pilates lovers
😌 The dry skin remedy

— Ioli Baltas, your 2025 editor

💫 The choice: PFA-free toilet paper or a bidet

🫘 The healthiest little (bean) snack

🍶 The first time I’m seeing non-alc Sake

💧 A do-it-all healing spray for klutzes

Stay-at-home everything 🧘 One of the toughest pills to swallow as you get older is that fitness is very dependent on free time. Gone are the days of my youth, filled with endless Cross Country meets and casual mid-day jogs. Now that my days are occupied by my 9-5 (an 8-7 really), exercising regularly requires a lot more creativity. How I get it done? Two words: Nicole & Bala. 

For all those “Pink Pilates Princesses” out there (thank you Spotify Wrapped), to master an at-home work out routine, the most essential tools to have include: a ring, some sliders, and aesthetic weights. For more casual days, where you only have 10-15 minutes to do something, a weighted jump rope becomes a pièce de resistance. 

So, whatever your fitness poison may be, just know 2025 is gonna be your year 💪

Free-Spirits – Save yourself that terrible hangover with this small-batch “tequila” that’s also infused with B Vitamins and Amino Acids to elevate your mood and energy – now that’s an upper. 

Pentire – What good is tequila if not for margaritas, and this non-alc mix is just the thing. Founded by a Cricketer, it’s tasty, plant-based, low calorie, and made in the UK. Sláinte! 

Drink Monday – For fans of mezcal (tequila’s sexier smokier cousin), this hand-crafted, Southern Californian brand is a must. 

De Soi – Founded by Katy Perry and Morgan McLachlan, this trendy botanical beverage uses natural adaptogens like reishi mushroom and ashwagandha to create a stress-soothing mix. Personal favorite: the St. Moritz Mule!