Welcome to Sending Smiles, a publication devoted to spreading joy. At the end of each month, I share a newsletter containing moments that made me smile. I am delighted you are taking time out of your day to be here.
If I had to sum up November in one word, it would be "uncertainty." Initially, I did not know who would win the U.S. election. Now, I do not know how the results will affect my fellow Americans. When I feel anxious, I try to redirect my energy to what is in my power. I cannot control how corporations use their money, but I can control which corporations I give my money to. I recently discovered the website Boycott for Peace, which helps me make more informed choices. While I can't control global warming, I can volunteer with climate-forward nonprofits. Most importantly, I can always connect with the people I love. Community is more important now than ever.
Steph’s Shuffles
Songs and podcast episodes that I just can’t quite get enough of.
Lights! Camera! Action!
TV shows and movies that I rated 4 to 5 stars.
Wicked (2024)
Genre: Musical
You can have all you ever wanted (I know)
But I don’t want it
No, I can’t want it anymore
Wicked reimagines the origin story of the witches of Oz, focusing on the complex relationship between Elphaba, the misunderstood "Wicked Witch of the West," and Galinda, the "Good Witch."
From the vocals to the visuals—and every tiny detail in between—I loved everything about Wicked. My mom and I entered the theater nervous about public speaking and left feeling inspired to audition for a play. But don’t be fooled by the bright colors and upbeat songs; this production doesn’t shy away from serious themes like racism, religious extremism, and prejudice. The film cleverly captures the nuances of racism. The same characters who discriminate against Elphaba for having green skin also wear and worship green in the context of the Emerald City. The scenes where animals are forced out of society are difficult to watch but are crucial, especially in light of Trump’s mass deportation threats. Needless to say, this movie couldn't have come at a better time. Wicked has something for everyone.
Nose in a Book
Books and essays that I rated 4 to 5 stars.
Pretty Little Liars Series by Sara Shepard
Genre: Young Adult, Mystery
Sometimes, a family is like an ear of summer corn: It might look perfect on the outside, but when you peel the husk away, every kernel is rotten.
The Pretty Little Liars series by Sara Shepard follows Aria, Spencer, Hanna, and Emily, who are haunted by the mysterious disappearance of their friend Alison and tormented by anonymous messages from someone—or “someones”—known only as "A."
In 2020, overwhelmed by election stress and feeling lost, I started rereading the Percy Jackson series. It was a comforting return to one of my favorite childhood books. This year, I continued this newfound tradition by picking up Shepard's works. In middle school, I used to hide under my covers with a flashlight, determined to uncover A's identity. Fourteen years later, I am still spending sleepless nights playing detective. The story is so fast-paced that even after reading sixteen books, I found myself craving more. Aria, Spencer, Hanna, and Emily continue to evolve throughout the series. After putting the book down, I found myself missing them. Alison DiLaurentis is the perfect villain. There were many moments when I thought I had solved all of her mysteries, only to realize there was always more to uncover.
Flowers on the Moon by Billy Chapata
Genre: Poetry
I hope you find someone who is inspired
by the light within you
and is encouraged to find light of their own
Flowers on the Moon by Billy Chapata is a poetic exploration of love, loss, self-discovery, and the complexities of human emotions, weaving together threads of introspection, personal growth, and healing.
I feel empowered after reading Chapata's poetry. The book is divided into five sections: Enceladus, Deimos, Amalthea, Lantana, and Transitions. The first three sections are named after different moons, which can be seen as representing various phases of Chapata's growth. It's a quick, uplifting read.
Joy Journal
My run ended exactly as the last song I queued played.
Dressing up for Election Day in my "Childless Cat Lady" shirt and crown necklace.
Writing about my first week studying abroad.
Watching The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City with Erin.
Enjoying quesadillas and conversation with Mary and Austin.
Standing in the corner of the pool bar with Tara and Olivia.
Reading the satisfying conclusion to the 16-book Pretty Little Liars series.
The moment the Wicked movie started.
Taking a hike with Mom and Susanna.
Receiving the invitation to Mary's wedding.
Voting!
Exploring a new trail with Erin, Kyle, and Bruce.
Outfit of the Month
November in Photos
Written with love.
Sending Smiles,
Steph
P.S.