What’s your favorite style of mashed potato? When I make mashed potatoes at home, I’m a fan of skin-on (aka, “dirty” mashed potatoes) — partly because I like the texture, partly because I don’t like peeling. But as for my favorite style of mashed potato, there’s no question: fancy-restaurant mashed potatoes. You know what I...

OOver the weekend, I bought myself a pumpkin spice candle. And even though the temps are still pushing 90 here in Austin, when I’m sitting at my desk with those warm, spicy scents keeping me company, I’m fully in a fall state of mind. Which is why it felt like the perfect time to share...

They don’t know exactly what is wrong with you… And this not knowing takes forever and never ends. For one thing, you have a purple rash from neck to wrist to ankle that will not budge from beneath the military-grade ointments you are required to slather over it. For another, some of your organs are...

Last night, after playing the board game Outfoxed (not to brag, but we won against the fox three times), 12-year-old Anton and I decided to turn on a show… We chose America’s Got Talent, which just finished its 20th season. Have you watched it? They have the emotional rollercoaster down to a science — for example,...

When I first heard people talk about their 5-to-9 routine, I used to roll my eyes a little. In my 20s, those hours were mostly a blur. I’d rush from work to dinner plans, answer a few more emails, or collapse onto the couch with whatever takeout I could find. I thought “evening routine” meant...

You know that feeling when you step outside and look at your yard, and instead of feeling proud, you just feel… disappointed? Maybe you’ve tried adding a few plants here and there, perhaps installed some solar lights from the hardware store, but somehow it still doesn’t look like those gorgeous outdoor spaces you see on...

When my teenagers burst into tears and slam their bedroom doors, I don’t go soothe them… It feels a little harsh to write out, but my reasoning is this: they chose to be alone in that moment, and they’re learning to emotionally regulate, a key life skill. They’re building those muscles and getting stronger every...

With candy season in full swing, my sweet tooth is living its best life. From cookies to pastries to endless ice cream experiments, I’ve been embracing every indulgence. But lately, my new obsession is puffed quinoa chocolate bark—a treat that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. It’s a little more wholesome and nutrient-rich...

I wouldn’t be the editor of Primer if I didn’t try to find it. Fitting, since Fall Getup Week was built on British countryside layers, waxed canvas, and sturdy boots. Thanks to Thursday Boot Co. for supporting Primer’s mission and partnering on this piece. The road out of Glencoe doesn’t ask for much. You slow...

Your periods are suddenly unpredictable. Your energy feels like it’s on a rollercoaster. You’re waking up drenched in sweat at 2 a.m. Is this stress—or am I in perimenopause? For better or for worse, your hormones are running the show. And you can either let them call the shots or take better control. Either way,...