God made the country, and man made the town. 
~William Cowper, The Task

Happy weekend, kittens.

This week at work balance was semi-restored with the return of a boss from a week and a half of (well-deserved) holiday and the hiring of a permanent full-time PA. Never underestimate the power of good management and good help.

Meanwhile on the homefront, the weather has lurched decidedly into spring and though we didn’t achieve the heat of last weekend’s glamping adventure, the trees are now fully green and the sky is blue. Except for when it’s hailing, which actually happened only a week ago. The reason for the British stereotype of talking about the weather, my dears, is that there’s actually quite a bit to talk about. If you don’t like the current state of the thermometer, wait an hour.

We’re off to hunt for  a new barbecue joint and do some weekend market exploring before returning to the grind. Here are your links, and tell me what you’ve been up to in the comments!

What a great art series!

Clickbait for SDS minions.

An inspiring story of a deep, deep friendship.

Fantastic piece by Barrie Hardyman on the power of revealing the plot twist.

The history of Kinfolk magazine I never knew I wanted to read.

Many, many Brits have asked me my opinion on the American election, to which my go-to response has become, “I live here now.” It’s important to find humor in this kind of political climate.

Alle Connell (formerly of xoVain, now at Revelist) is one of my favourite young beauty writers out there–go check her out wherever her work appears. When she left xoVain, I was genuinely saddened. However this new piece on eye shadow blending  and how to actually do it by Kim Carpluk might result in the crowning of a C.’s-Fave-Vainer award.

Not. Cool.

Profile of the man who manages to do exactly what it says on the tin. Or at least the title.

NOPE.