https://www.justinasparling.com/blog-and-newslitter daily 0.75 2021-10-18 https://www.justinasparling.com/blog-and-newslitter/blog-post-title-one-f9fxa monthly 0.5 2021-10-18 https://www.justinasparling.com/blog-and-newslitter/blog-post-title-two-jm548 monthly 0.5 2020-05-19 https://www.justinasparling.com/blog-and-newslitter/blog-post-title-three-7bn6z monthly 0.5 2020-05-19 https://www.justinasparling.com/blog-and-newslitter/blog-post-title-four-fbcl9 monthly 0.5 2020-05-19 https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh daily 0.75 2026-03-04 https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/january92026 monthly 0.5 2026-01-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/381d0e9c-6c4c-41b5-a5cd-451db9700487/Screenshot+2026-01-08+at+8.30.20%E2%80%AFPM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 9, 2026 COVID boredom affected us all differently. It manifested for me in the production of this video I made in 2020 to poke fun at the absurdity of our surrender/adoption pound epic with Hazel that I recounted above. Yes, I made my family be in it. Yes, I played a starring role. No, I did not hear from the Oscars that year. Click on the image or here to see the masterpiece. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1767996000709-UFFVAI2VEYXSD8J2BEY4/IMG_1412.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 9, 2026 - Our little lamb. See how she was squishy like a puppy when we first got her? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1767996000359-ZIVQC9F4HENFQNJI7CYQ/IMAG0033.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 9, 2026 - Doing her hair because we were girls and she was our doll. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1767996004703-YWBFXLO7X8J8QL286IX9/IMG_2112.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 9, 2026 - When she got her double knee surgery. They took her pants off to complete the surgery. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1767996004540-DEPP99K4NNPJ4HEP2INY/IMG_7358+2.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 9, 2026 - Curled up on a pillow because she was a cozy girl. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1767996009182-MILV2NE6PCNW1AQWM035/Screenshot+2026-01-08+at+9.30.28%E2%80%AFPM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 9, 2026 - Hazel doing one of her favorite things (sunbathing) with one of her favorite people (Seann). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1767996009501-4R0ZDVV1WB96B1NOV8M5/IMG_6701.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 9, 2026 - One of my all time favorite photos of Hazel (taken by the aforementioned Seann!!). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1767996023870-5WFNUXIW67A4UIY9684R/IMG_8675.PNG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 9, 2026 - Eyes FULL of personality here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1767996010838-YRB6P8HYS2VR1QBBEVJP/IMG_8783.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 9, 2026 - Hazel at Jason’s and my wedding brunch looking better than the bride (rude!!). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1767996021183-RJHLLB96I1R8WTBXF6RK/IMG_6114.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 9, 2026 - Saying my final goodbye to The Best Friend. Thank you, Jason, for this picture. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/b6737a7d-5f8a-49e6-b229-405d8ed9454f/IMG_8784.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 9, 2026 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/november122025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/d12eccaf-e801-4b6c-900b-0717060eaeee/Screenshot+2025-11-11+at+7.08.31%E2%80%AFPM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 12, 2025 Hi BLUGHies! I am great and I hope you are doing great too. I have to be honest: it has been a really nice fall and I am feeling very grateful (perfect timing ?!?! ). Grateful though I am for my so many things, New York is in dire straits and I don’t know what to do. For weeks (months??) Jason and I have been searching for our favorite popcorn brand, Pop Secret Jumbo Popping Corn, and it is nowhere to be found. It’s perfect for a number of reasons including: The lid is a 1/2 cup measurement, so you don’t have to guess how much to put in. It’s stove top (we don’t mess with microwave popcorn). As advertised, the popcorn pops BIG. It’s so good. It’s widely available in bodegas and big box stores OH WAIT NO IT ISN’T WE LITERALLY CAN’T FIND IT ANYWHERE. We’re going to be ok, but it still makes me SAD to not be able to find this popcorn anywhere. Movies don’t watch as good without it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/78a74d58-1a9a-4107-ad29-a505f83a3d03/smokeybearcoverimage.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 12, 2025 - PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION I know. Damn. This image of Smokey always gets me too. I just want you know know how seriously I am NOT promoting smoking when I tell you my product recommendation of the week is: ASHTRAYS. Ashtrays are a remnant of smoking accoutrements that I think are great. Use them for jewelry, keys, coins, general decor. I am working on my collection and let me tell you, you can and will ALWAYS find a cool/weird/interesting ashtray at a flea market or an antique store. So fun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/09254cb8-00b0-4b1e-9860-cbdd631da2f3/m.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 12, 2025 - BOOK RECOMMENDATION BOOK RECOMMENDATION This is NOT me bragging about reading East of Eden by John Steinbeck. This IS me bragging about reading East of Eden by John Steinbeck twice. BUT FOR REAL, I love this book a lot. I can’t wait to read it again. I’m kind of hesitant to offer even a synopsis!! I don’t want to spoil anything! I’ll give you some keywords though: family, epic, America, industry, sharp pointy teeth, evil, love, timshel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/821b4b38-63bb-4589-9563-df99278161d7/ab67616d0000b27308256748d3e6c3ed016cab16.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 12, 2025 - Make it stand out LISTENING RECOMMENDATION Sorry to be like everyone else but this new Rosalía album is amazing. I can’t stop listening!! AND we get a new Orville Peck EP on Friday?! What a time. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/b0f66573-3322-4ad6-ab4b-fcc972028aef/IMG_7652.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 12, 2025 - October 2025 I love this picture. On our AMAZING trip to Ireland last month, I had the interesting experience of getting VERY sick one day. It was a day that was meant to be filled with hiking, pubs, and generally the Northern Coast of Northern Ireland. BUT MY STOMACH SAID MAYBE NOT. I got violently ill and we had to turn back home where I was nursed to health by Jason and our dear friend, Charlie. Before we turned back though, I was in the state of mind that I could will myself to be well and power through. This picture was taken during that period of denial, but vomiting out the car in front of dozens of Irish sheep grazing in a verdant pasture soon made me face the truth: my tummy was rumbly. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/october82025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/9304d352-3316-424e-bb31-3f9b716ba013/Screenshot+2025-10-08+at+8.10.20%E2%80%AFAM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 8, 2025 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Not a DAMN thing wrong with a print or a poster! If, however, you are looking to get some original work and would prefer to spend less than $24 millie at the Sotheby’s auction, Tacit Collective, could be a great option! They curate female artists’ works and have great finds of original work that you might want to own in your home. Some stuff is $$$$ but not all! ALTERNATIVELY, go straight to the source and get AMAZING art from my talented friend, Court McCracken. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/8083257d-101d-4329-8ab3-a32ebe6bf885/shark-heart-9781668006504_lg.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 8, 2025 - BOOK RECOMMENDATION BOOK RECOMMENDATION This is NOT me bragging about reading East of Eden by John Steinbeck. This IS me bragging about reading East of Eden by John Steinbeck twice. BUT FOR REAL, I love this book a lot. I can’t wait to read it again. I’m kind of hesitant to offer even a synopsis!! I don’t want to spoil anything! I’ll give you some keywords though: family, epic, America, industry, sharp pointy teeth, evil, love, timshel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/3679cae3-3505-4ba7-8c33-b2db51695af6/Screenshot+2025-10-08+at+8.20.30%E2%80%AFAM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 8, 2025 - Make it stand out TO WATCH Please tell me what to watch. Nothing interests me right now!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/823e49a0-8f3a-4e45-85fb-9862ded34510/IMG_7419+2.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 8, 2025 - September 2025 Guinness World Record Photo Can you guys believe I can be this artsy? https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/august272025 monthly 0.5 2026-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/b5ba01b0-0122-43ff-8035-8c91d56a7508/Screenshot+2025-08-26+at+5.39.41%E2%80%AFPM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 27, 2025 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION As an AVID phone talker, I was naturally intrigued when I heard about Tin Can. In their own words, “Tin Can is a phone for kids. That’s it. No screens. No distractions. Just real, human connection.” It’s simple, straightforward, and fosters connection in a word where technology has a tendency to distance us. Though not a customer, I am a big fan of this!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/2ac7f4df-1cca-409d-b9ed-f11306636a75/81uvm-JeNtL._SL1500_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 27, 2025 - Book RECOmMendation BOOK RECOMMENDATION Not a book I would typically recommend, but in light of my harsh reality check this week, I am choosing to share a book that skews more light-hearted. At Home in Mitford is probably the most innocent book I have ever read (and is the beginning of a series if you get hooked!). Worry and woe were far from my mind when I was reading this book between junior and senior year of college, which was much needed because I was feeling pretty emo that summer . It’s about a small, fictional town in North Carolina and requires little to no brain power and takes no emotional toll. Not an intellectually stimulating read, but sometimes that is a good thing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/174fda2d-0670-414b-8aa6-d4dee802d4df/MV5BZjY5NWNlY2UtN2NjMC00NDFhLTllZjgtZTZhOTliMmFmMGVhXkEyXkFqcGc%40._V1_FMjpg_UX1000_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 27, 2025 - Make it stand out TO WATCH Continuing to keep it (pretty) light-hearted with this binge watch of mine from a few years ago. A limited series is my FAVORITE thing to watch. PLEASE recommend whatever limited series you’ve watched and loved! Because I am who I am, most that I have seen and loved are pretty dark in genre, but La cocinera de Castamar is actually not that traumatic lol (jajaja)!! I wouldn’t say it’s feel-good, but it has the perfect amount of drama that you don’t feel broken after an episode, which is always a huge plus. It’s on Netflix!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/a608add4-149e-4b7a-9faa-4ff1e0f3db76/IMG_6897.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 27, 2025 - 1995 Clueless? More like Who dis? Went to Ft. Greene park a couple of weeks ago for a movie in the park. The movie in question? Clueless. I had made it to this age without ever having seen it and it was EXCELLENT!!! Highly recommend! The most impactful part of the experience was seeing my male doppleganger on screen when the character, Christian, entered. Like…it’s uncanny. That is my face on a dude. We kept calling him “Justin” anytime he was on screen and then I looked up the actor when we got home and HIS NAME IS ACTUALLY JUSTIN. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/august132025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/9f0fbc48-e8c5-4dcb-8fb4-142706e5a9ca/955caa02-24d9-4236-9a84-3e2e51d26e4f.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 13, 2025 - July 2025 Organic Encounter Ran into my friend, Raquel, on the subway. These fortuitous encounters are the stuff of dreams. We were sweating A LOT but we were sweating ❤️together❤️. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/july302025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/79cea3d1-551b-42ba-84e4-b6658628245c/71nubgdLMcL._UF1000%2C1000_QL80_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: July 30, 2025 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Was influenced by my friend, Kat, to buy the Wonderskin lip stain. The verdict? I love it. My lip skin is the same color of my face skin (sorry!!!!) so anything that can help with that is welcome. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/0c4f88bf-6a98-49d7-a63b-af9814617c53/91HGhul0RXL.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: July 30, 2025 - Book RECOmMendation BOOK RECOMMENDATION This is NOT me bragging about reading East of Eden by John Steinbeck. This IS me bragging about reading East of Eden by John Steinbeck twice. BUT FOR REAL, I love this book a lot. I can’t wait to read it again. I’m kind of hesitant to offer even a synopsis!! I don’t want to spoil anything! I’ll give you some keywords though: family, epic, America, industry, sharp pointy teeth, evil, love, timshel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/162c2623-50b6-4c9d-ac87-611359e60432/MV5BYjZkYzYwNmQtNjk3ZC00Y2M2LThhY2EtODIzOThiNDJmMTk2XkEyXkFqcGdeQW1yb3NzZXI%40._V1_QL75_UY281_CR86%2C0%2C500%2C281_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: July 30, 2025 - Make it stand out TO WATCH I don’t care about Wes Anderson that much. I hope that’s ok!! But I LOVED Isle of the Dogs. Watched it two weeks ago. Then watched it AGAIN a week ago. Might watch it yet again after I send this BLUGH out. It’s beautiful, it’s based in ❤️Japan❤️, it’s sweet. Have you watched it?? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/bc46003e-a0f8-4e3a-b001-499c43c9965d/IMG_6733.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: July 30, 2025 - The 90s The dentist Couldn’t tell you why the adults around me though we should take photos of this but wow. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/march262025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/fceb191d-c34a-42b2-a9ea-6acac0a13fd3/Screenshot+2025-03-25+at+9.04.38%E2%80%AFPM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 26, 2025 - Then. Now. Always? Consumption Monster Me. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/march122025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/68c3844e-fbb6-426b-9cd0-69ee4bfa0021/IMG_0480379D1ABA-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 12, 2025 - September 2019 A+++ student Here I am at a chocolate making class in Cartagena in 2019. If you have spoken to me for any amount of time, you know I love a class. Seriously!!! You meet interesting people, you learn something, you probably see a new place. Jack of all trades, master of none Sparling and I like it that way! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/march52025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/8abded6b-7fad-47c3-9b74-8e83f2e2a6b8/unnamed.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 5, 2025 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Not so much a recommendation as a look into the life and choices of Justina✨. When I was in 5th grade, I NEEDED big chunky shoes. Do you know what I mean?!!? I think they were called Dockers or they were made by Dockers…? My Google investigations came up pretty empty. They looked something like Figure E in this nostalgic image. Unfortunately, an adult bought these for me and I looked really silly. I had really skinny legs and the leg circumference to shoe size ratio was not it!! My love for big chunky shoes is still strong though! My legs are thicker and I like wide legged jeans, so the lewk has improved. These are the current chunks of choice but always looking to unlock the next level of thiccccness in a shoe. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/a446675b-522e-4804-9747-02976bac5e96/81s2fz-v7NL.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 5, 2025 - Book RECOmMendation BOOK RECOMMENDATION To be honest, this book is the opposite of peace. I really enjoyed it, though, and I think Julia Fox is inspiring, exciting, interesting, tough, cool, funny, weird, smart, creative, and so and and so forth. As most books I recommend on the BLUGH, I thought Down the Drain was a riveting read. I also thinks it has some lessons and messages and really enjoyed her point of view and her writing style. In the 5 or so days it took me to read it, I had a very special ritual. I would pour myself a tiny glass of sake and sip on it as I furiously powered through the book. Why sake? LITERALLY NO IDEA. I read this pre-Japan trip. There is also no mention of sake in the book. And then when I was done with the book I was also done with sake. I have no idea. This is also a repeat rec (whoops!!). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/999f049d-701e-47dd-9793-13adb620e35b/Count-of-Monte-Cristo.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 5, 2025 - Make it stand out TO WATCH You guys!!! This movie is the best movie I’ve seen in years. Conclave who? It is so so so so so good and I need to you to set aside 4 hours to watch it and then GET BACK TO ME. Yes, I am interested in the book, but I saw it and at a bookstore recently and it weighed 14 pounds. Just not good for the subway commute. Any readers of this tome out there? Did you enjoy it? Lemme know!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/e0a7061b-1881-40b2-8233-bc5bd7ed621f/IMG_0142.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 5, 2025 - March 2017 Happy NY anniversary to us Look at these children! They’ve just arrived in NY in their rental minivan. They are willing to give NY “1 or 2 years” to see how they like it. They are VERY excited for their Improv Level 1 class starting at the Magnet the following week. They have no idea how amazing their lives will be for moving here. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/february262025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/5750443d-18b8-437c-a3b3-11e6323593eb/IMG_C43131C54A2A-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 26, 2025 - February 2025 We bought the forest I’m sorry but to me this photo looks like we are posing in front of our first home as a married couple lol. Honestly would move in though! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/february122025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/d22267d7-ea12-4b76-b333-db2aee272cce/IMG_4800.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 12, 2025 - February 2025 Me Monday night We out here!! Can you see the lifelessness in my smile? My body craving sleep, my eyes and skin BEGGING me to drink a glass of water, and me REFUSING because we were headed to a Lakers game and I didn’t want to have to use the public restroom when we were there. (Truly having an great time though for real). https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/february52025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/d3bcafb2-c5ac-47b4-b5a8-ebf1f272926c/TitanicHeartoftheOcean.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 5, 2025 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Ok I have two new (to me) jewelry stores that I think are really nice and cute and want you to know about them if you don’t already. NO ONE NEEDS MORE THINGS, I KNOW. And also: IN THIS ECONOMY? But maybe you can save these for when you want to treat yourself or your loved ones with some cute stuff. Lizzie Fortunato: CUTE, interesting stuff!! Kind of weird looking and I like it. I got to go to the showroom in NYC and it was a very cute experience. Also it was started by twin sisters. Let me reemphasize: CUTE. Local Eclectic: Affordable jewelry including solid gold! If solid gold is important to you, you won’t find better priced options than Local Eclectic. Plus they are opening a flagship store in Chicago that looks like it will be amazing. One more thing for me to do in Chicago when I FINALLY get myself there. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/a4ed1b4c-5893-470e-b583-2bb8da514168/main-image.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 5, 2025 - Book RECOmMendation BOOK RECOMMENDATION Speaking of stones!! Ok so, I COULD NOT PUT THIS BOOK DOWN when I was reading it last year. If you know anything about Stoner, know that what it is about is seemingly very boring. Like it’s just about a man who grew up on a farm and ended up being a professor. Obviously it is so much more, but generally, that is about it! This book is FANTASTIC. Since reading Stoner, I have also since read another John Williams book, Butcher’s Crossing, a western that was very interesting and good, but it was no Stoner. I have Augustus on my shelf waiting to be read too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/34a2c500-de73-4c30-b0d4-c4e2cf1b3047/1_7UzxWBBBOHCSu0CWV6g1sg.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 5, 2025 - Make it stand out TO WATCH Are you dutifully watching your Oscar movies? Every year, I like to catch the animated shorts so if you are in NY and want to go see those somewhere, please let me know, I’m serious. In the meantime, I pray that you to watch Conclave. I confess it is the greatest movie I have witnessed in forever. It has the ⛪holy trinity⛪: amazing acting, fascinating plot, and captivating cinematography. I’m not saying my word is gospel but I am saying that your ‍♀️eternal soul‍♀️ is at stake and watching this movie is the only way to save yourself from damnation!!! FOR REAL THO, this movie is incredible. I thought it would be so boring because, much like Stoner, the topic of the plot seems lame to me. I was so wrong. Also, I am so relieved by a religious movie that is not grossly sacrilegious. I’m not even religious but these religion-based films that are just blatantly disrespectful/gross about religion just kind of turn me off. Am I….old? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/752840f7-4e07-4645-a8d3-00679f8d58c9/Screenshot+2025-02-04+at+6.46.54%E2%80%AFPM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 5, 2025 - February 2025 Back again Remember that speakeasy I teased last week? Well, I went back again this past week and apparently recited the pledge of allegiance while I was there? I don’t know. What I do know is that I am going back again on Thursday FOR REAL. The place in question is The Sunken Harbor Club. It’s nautically themed (feels like you’re in a ship), has incredible cocktails (and mocktails!!!!), and is an EXPERIENCE. I don’t want to say too much, but I will share some tips. Get there early (talking 4:30 for a 5:30 entry) Pursue membership (just get a passport when you visit) If you have to wait, enjoy a DELICIOUS meal at Gage and Tollner right below the SHC. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/january292025 monthly 0.5 2025-11-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/773629a7-b093-4fab-9334-31b732fc9faf/IMG_E00CE2DAC81B-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 29, 2025 - January 2025 Do you know where I am? This past weekend, I went to the COOLEST speakeasy I’ve every been to PERIOD with my bff, Meg!!! I am not gatekeeping this place, but before I give it away, do any BLUGH readers recognize it!?!? Let me know!! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/january222025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/b1a26487-fa7a-4f28-9f25-4a7d0eb13693/unnamed.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 22, 2025 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION No purchase necessary! I came across Stephanie Harrison on Instagram a few years ago and was a big fan straight away because she is a visual queen and creates simple but effective artwork to convey her philosophy on happiness. She has tons of great resources including a newsletter, a book, and tools like her values wheel. Worth a look if you ask me! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/d2296e1e-5031-40e1-abf6-2ddac29d8981/Screenshot+2025-01-21+at+8.02.56%E2%80%AFPM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 22, 2025 - Book RECOmMendation COMBINED FEATURE: BOOK RECOMMENDATION + TO WATCH If you’ve been here, you’ve already know that the book, A New Earth is very dear to me. It’s very dear to Oprah too! She values this book so much that she has picked it for her book club AGAIN and is syndicating new episodes. First episode here! The book club is SPONSORED BY STARBUCKS AND DON’T YOU FORGET IT. It’s funny how they work the coffee cameos in but hey, if it helps spread the Eckhart of it Tolle, then I am fine with it. WARNING: if you watch if you are likely to feel an immediate sense of peace! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/c1b1e08c-8b8f-4c6e-a29b-5526d50c1524/IMG_4570.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 22, 2025 - October 2024 Dahlias! NAME A MORE BEAUTIFUL FLOWER! Last fall, I had a stereotypically perfect upstate weekend with our friends, Lisa and Matt, which included apple picking. At the orchard there were some people selling dahlias which are the perfect flower imho. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/january152025 monthly 0.5 2025-08-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/104b1464-2d63-4fe0-a0f1-5ae99d6ba88d/IMG_4657.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 15, 2025 - January 2025 The looks on their faces You DO get one of my learnings this week: polaroid film expires?!?!?! Who knew?! Makes for a very artistic (spooky!!!) result. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/january82025 monthly 0.5 2026-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/fb05c053-7130-477b-9df2-b37133bd3c76/Screenshot+2025-01-07+at+7.58.09%E2%80%AFAM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 8, 2025 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION I was looking for stock images to use for alcohol/sober/dry January content and all I could find was this image of a mom trying to comfort her traumatized daughter because daddy has that “ponytail” and that “beard”. This will have to do. I am not doing dry January. I actually have a very serious condition that prevents me from doing it. Doctors don’t have a name for it yet, but basically what happens is that if someone, even if that person is me, tells me I can’t do or have something, I want to do or have that thing more than anything in the world and will stop at nothing to do or have that thing. Not a lethal condition, but there is no cure, That said, I am def cutting back so I can have something to talk about with people at work and because the Surgeon General is apparently tired of our shenanigans and is starting out 2025 with a serious and (scary!) message for us.Cutting back feels nice!!! Makes alcohol more of a treat and I sleep better and I also [insert list of many benefits]. I’ve discussed some of my fav N/A beverages on the BLUGH before, but I have recently discovered a couple new really good ones!! First, the Mezcal Phony Negroni by St. Agrestis. BIG TIME FLAVOR. If you don’t like mezcal or Negronis, stay far away. Second, my beloved Sierra Nevada has a new N/A IPA that is the best N/A beer I’ve had yet?!?! Loving it. There’s also a revolutionary new beverage on the streets called “water”. You can drink it literally any time of day. The taste is impossible to describe. The closest I can get is, “wet”. I think you guys should def check it out if you see it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/a1609519-e0e8-4daf-8999-af11f6dd878c/Screenshot+2025-01-07+at+8.54.31%E2%80%AFPM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 8, 2025 - Book RECOmMendation BOOK RECOMMENDATION 2024 was the year I decided audiobooks were ok, and my couch hasn’t been the same since. I always thought listening to a book was “cheating” and also I thought the narrators’ voices would mess with the imaginary visions of the content/story of the book in my head. Not so!!! Listening to audiobooks is very enjoyable!! It all started with Project Hail Mary, which will probably get its own dedicated BLUGH. That book was my personality for a few months. Then, on the way down to SC for the holidays, Jason and I listened to James and really enjoyed it. What a twist!!! Currently I am listening to I Who have Never Known Men and am enthralled. Post Apocalyptic society with hopeless prospects where existence is rampant with futility? It’s like I dreamed this book. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/44e387ad-f607-4ca9-9fb2-eacb3fbae157/Screenshot+2025-01-07+at+9.01.12%E2%80%AFPM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 8, 2025 - Make it stand out TO WATCH istockphoto is pulling ZERO punches this week and isn’t afraid to show some provoking content! Honestly, nothing comes to mind in terms of recommendations. My brain is too busy thinking of what I WANT to watch. My list is long and I don’t like it. But check out here for some recs. You know I’ll have them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/c1b1e08c-8b8f-4c6e-a29b-5526d50c1524/IMG_4570.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 8, 2025 - December 2024 Very nice The Farr family beach trip was in Ocean Isle this year. One night the clouds and the sun and the sky decided to just do this? Honored to have borne witness to such a sight. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/january12025 monthly 0.5 2025-08-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/58a4aaaa-7378-4dd2-b8cf-25fdfc1773b8/IMG_4424.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 1, 2025 - 2024 Waldorf Astoria (Not Queens!!) For Christmas last year, aka like 10 days ago , Jason and I stayed at the Waldorf Astoria in D.C. using some credit card points and it was PRETTY DARN NICE LET ME TELL YOU. Took this pic for design inspo. Thinking a light fixture the size of our living room would go well in our living room. Thoughts?! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/march62024 monthly 0.5 2025-01-08 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/65c65b49-eb96-4620-8345-b5f1116f7667/IMG_2530.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 6, 2024 - 2020 Emotions These are photos I submitted to Conan O’Brien’s show during the pandemic. Conan’s show was printing cardboard cutouts to serve as audience members and they asked for viewers to submit their images for this purpose. I never saw myself in the audience on the show but I like to think that Conan has a cutout cardboard figure of me in his house somewhere. Incidentally, this sequence of fear, anguish, and ultimately, elation is what takes place anytime someone asks me how wedding planning is going. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/february282024 monthly 0.5 2026-01-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/d96c2b9e-54a3-4059-a023-63eaf534b66b/IMG_0041.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 28, 2024 - Circa 2006 Real. Me as a teenager. Maybe not on the inside but def on the inside! Angsty!!! Tormented!!!! MISUNDERSTOOD https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/february212024 monthly 0.5 2024-07-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/59d44b74-8078-474b-9843-9e8477cee769/IMG_8280.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 21, 2024 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Want to stay warm in Iceland or in other frosty places? Allow me to recommend this coat from tentree (currently on sale!!). It’s keeps you warm but not hot, has SO many pockets, and doesn’t get soaked in rain or snow. I first heard of this brand from my friend, Kat, who was wearing the perfect rain jacket (I bought that too) and I love their products!! Disclaimer: the jacket I wore in Iceland was actually this one (also excellent). Disclaimer 2.0: part of the reason I used this photo was to brag about meeting Betül Tunç at a meet and greet at Anthropologie in Manhattan the day after I got back in Iceland. I was very awkward and shy but she was very ✨‍!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/f695b906-171a-4a85-9fdd-2d6e1b19eaa5/3f7429b9-7798-46e3-a626-a9bdabbbbeac.__CR335%2C0%2C300%2C300_PT0_SX300_V1___.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 21, 2024 - Book RECOmMendation BOOK RECOMMENDATION So I REALLY enjoyed reading How Iceland Changed the World. It is now very dear to me because it was one of the things that built up to our Iceland trip. Do I recommend that EVERYONE read this book? Not necessarily. But it is very interesting to see the roles Iceland has played in world events! The writing is also funny and engaging, a great book. What I DO strongly recommend is reading a book or watching a show or listening to music or fill in the blank with consuming art or knowledge of a place you are going to visit. Knowing about the Icelandic parliament’s 1000 year anniversary in 1930 wasn’t necessary for me to enjoy Iceland, but it did make it fun to see and recognize things that I had learned about . https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/38b6043c-e69d-48df-adea-ec77d6837c8d/Screen+Shot+2024-02-20+at+9.16.55+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 21, 2024 - Make it stand out TO WATCH Last summer I filmed a musical comedy and it was just released and set loose into the wild last week. It’s even better and funnier than I had imagined which is saying a lot because I knew that Seann Cantatore and her brother, Alex, were going to make something hilarious. It’s ABSURD and SURPRISING and SWEET and I am so proud I got to play the role of Razor. Check out the video here! And check out Seann! And Alex!! They’re the most talented siblings ever! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/e180fb2d-16e1-4125-b51d-1faaed0c5ac8/IMG_7813.JPEG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 21, 2024 - February 2024 NOT Ponies, Horses This is my favorite picture of the horses from our Iceland trip. They look so goofy and cute!! Like truly posing for the picture! Our guide, Miro, took this picture. I have many Iceland recommendations that I will share with anyone who asks, but I have to proactively pitch Miro and his company, Icelandic Roamers. Traveling around and hunting the aurora borealis with him was magical. He knew secret spots to visit and took pics while we explored, allowing us to be more present in the moment and deepen our bond with the Icelandic horses. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/january242024 monthly 0.5 2024-07-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/f9d59dfc-a12c-4542-9d63-2ca76a12543b/IMG_0232.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 24, 2024 - September 2019 RIP: Revel mopeds Did you hear that Revel, the dockless electric moped company, has retired the mopeds (but not its ride share service)? It’s the end of an era. I don’t feel too strongly about it but let me tell you when it first came to Brooklyn, I would hop on a Revel moped at any opportunity and play cowboy by attempting to herd the other vehicles on these incredibly narrow city roads. Yee haw! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/january172024 monthly 0.5 2024-01-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/dc33b555-8702-45a3-a143-839c9ca4383b/smokeybearcoverimage.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 17, 2024 - Make it stand out Step 1: Increase temperature I can’t sleep well in the cold and so need to heat up the room to a cozy 90 degrees ahead of shut-eye. I used to use a heating pad and just lay on that until my skin was singeing off my body and as relaxing as that was, I shifted to a space heater a while ago and love it. This space heater is the BEST: quiet, heats the space up well, and has cute little remote! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/d6a9d5f7-8d77-4ca3-82b1-12df62136ad6/would_you_like_a_bottle_of_magic_potion__by_allalisy_dekscd6-pre.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 17, 2024 - Make it stand out Step 2: Spray magic potion This was the result of falling prey to TikTok influencing but thus is (my) life. Dr. Teal’s sleep spray is a mix of melatonin and essential oils meant to promote the best sleep ever. Is it scientifically proven to help you fall asleep or sleep better? I cannot say. But I will tell you that spraying this on my pillow every night before bed has resulted in a Pavlovian effect that means if I smell this, I am SLEEPING. Also, it smells great! I’d also like to take this opportunity to promote my soon-to-be-released Dr. Feel’s spray, a blend of tinctures that is meant to promote the best cry ever. Combine with Dr. Teal’s sleep spray for the perfect cry-nap combo. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/6ee31fe5-f80f-4f8a-9e08-beb29110b3c7/MV5BMTg2MzkyOTcwOV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwMDIzMzg5MTE%40._V1_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 17, 2024 - Make it stand out Step 3: Assemble the fabrics Everything I touch while sleeping should be soft. YET AGAIN I fell prey to advertising and caved and brought the Brooklinen sheets and let me tell you, they are just ok. Just buy the Mellanni sheets! Way softer and WAY cheaper!! For PJs, I go with these Summersalt satiny/silky ones (on sale as of the sending of this email!!!). Finally, for the pièce de résistance, I lay my weary head on the best pillowcase ever (STRONG RECOMMEND!) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/5f5951bf-42de-4ceb-9396-71ebaf6e73c6/John_Singer_Sargent_-_Nonchaloir_%281911%29.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 17, 2024 - 1911-Present Nonchaloir One time my sisters were in Washington D.C. without me and they brought this home for me because they saw it and apparently immediately thought of me so that was very sweet and hilarious of them. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/january102024 monthly 0.5 2024-01-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/9c15a06e-4d7e-4338-a878-95c76bdf310a/Screen+Shot+2024-01-09+at+9.55.27+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 10, 2024 - January 2024 Engagement Photos! TODAY IS JASON’S BIRTHDAY!!! Here he is pictured with possibly the greatest gift of all: a well-fitting gray blazer. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/december222023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/5ae3d0a6-bcf5-48dc-937d-2bd386d53796/IMG_CF18EAF34880-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 22, 2023 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/december132023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/5d00faf5-3382-4049-90fe-4e4a4793785a/IMG_9275.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 13, 2023 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/0ed2ddca-b57c-45dd-846e-9b0d864df076/IMG_9279.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 13, 2023 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/58ea6f7e-d2f4-46de-860a-1e3ef06a8c80/IMG_9284.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 13, 2023 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/december62023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/b252ee2f-ef18-44f2-b1a0-3101f4f485d2/IMG_9D11F091E5A0-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 6, 2023 - October 2023 VERMONT!!!!! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/november292023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/2dab42d6-f726-4d77-8ebb-4a4dfdbf3697/Spies+everywhere.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 29, 2023 - Fall 2023 VERMONT!!!!! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/november152023 monthly 0.5 2024-07-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/2fac714a-2df2-4eb8-ba44-ff457e38788c/Jo-Malone-Nectarine-Blossom-Honey-100ml-3.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 15, 2023 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Perfumes. There would need to be a 100-part series of BLUGHs for me to really unpack how I feel about different brands and scents and to divulge my favorite ones (there are many!!!). Long gone are the days where I had a single signature scent. I will spray many different perfumes throughout the day and night! That said, I do feel the need to share my latest obsession. I am ADDICTED to how this smells and I can’t get enough. It’s from the reliable brand, Jo Malone London, and is their Nectarine Blossom & Honey Cologne. It’s fruity but good. It’s seriously the first perfume that is fruity that I have smelled that isn’t Bath & Bodyworks-y. Disclaimer: NOTHING wrong with Bath & Bodyworks (they gave us Cucumber Melon!! (RIP)). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/e4d48197-6043-4875-9d8e-b160fda0ccb1/down-the-drain-9781668011508_lg.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 15, 2023 - Book RECOmMendation BOOK RECOMMENDATION Is this the most well-written book I have ever read? No. Does it contain stories and messages that I can relate to? No. Does it teach me something? Do I grow as a result of reading this book? Not exactly?? That said, I have been absolutely glued to this book for the past couple of days and gobbled (Thanksgiving’s next week, y’all!!) it up. Julia Fox has done SO many things in her life and career-maybe a you from Uncut Gems? Anyway, she wrote a memoir, Down the Drain, and it is thrilling, engaging, surprising, captivating, and terrifying. I LOVED IT. My favorite quote from the book is, “I’m an artist in the role of a lifetime, playing Me.” I’m obsessed. I want to talk about it with you. Did you read it? And I can’t emphasize this enough: Uncut Gems. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/0caa080a-8666-49d3-8189-6277bac2dda1/download+%281%29.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 15, 2023 - Make it stand out YOUTUBE (TO WATCH WHILE YOU EAT YOUR CUTE LITTLE BREAKFAST) Thank you to AD for filling the void left by MTV Cribs. I just watched Orville Peck’s house tour and it was everything I hoped Orville Peck’s house tour would be. Do you have a favorite AD house tour video? Tell me so I can watch it!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1aab6fa3-7abf-4652-b158-06ec883aa3b2/IMG_6561.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 15, 2023 - Summer 2023 Candid Here is a picture that a goose took of me as I was flying into NYC over the summer. That view always gets me and I appreciate the goose capturing this moment. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/november82023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/0a2d71f6-6a7a-4f4b-b35d-2afc956b396b/8838F06B-A955-4750-9ABD-2DC0DAE0A0F4.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 8, 2023 - November 8, 2022 One year ago today VERMONT!!!!! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/november12023 monthly 0.5 2025-11-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/695f34ef-2247-4f97-893f-9776d1a12222/Screen+Shot+2023-10-31+at+6.31.03+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 1, 2023 State capitol!!! And yes, I looked up the spelling just to be sure. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1d828657-9298-4a91-b9a0-91e13b5d33fb/Screen+Shot+2023-10-31+at+6.30.39+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 1, 2023 - Make it stand out Went to market? More like went to bed!!! These piggies were at the AirBnB farm where we stayed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/3f3ff4cd-d121-4cfa-87e9-fc5cf6438464/Screen+Shot+2023-10-31+at+6.32.31+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 1, 2023 - Make it stand out Cocktails for Halloween at Caledonia! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/205540c9-6f12-4fd5-8c09-e528913fb4c8/Screen+Shot+2023-10-31+at+6.30.51+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 1, 2023 - Make it stand out Hello to this beautiful barn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/019fec67-623b-4fa6-a2f6-9fbb4cbc3165/IMG_7056.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 1, 2023 - Make it stand out Weeping with joy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/d513e927-fc09-4197-8935-d9f0e69016a9/IMG_7053.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 1, 2023 - Make it stand out I rented this sweater specifically for Vermont, I’m serious. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/2af89f1a-5edf-496e-b45e-fa19f28983d4/IMG_7049.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 1, 2023 - Make it stand out Sweet angel. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/195f0e8a-b6d9-4b48-b933-5c42802c4801/IMG_927773854590-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 1, 2023 - Make it stand out VERMONT!!!!! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/october252023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/october182023 monthly 0.5 2023-11-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/795596bb-0d65-4014-a891-e4b7f7d7240e/IMG_6D6CC7789798-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 18, 2023 - DECEMBER 2020 Birthday shenanigans Speaking of birthdays, here’s a fun memory. In this pic, I am seen with my sisters while we celebrate the birthday of our brother (no relation). Ryan does not subscribe to the BLUGH, but if he did he would have absolutely nothing to say about it and that is why I love him and why he’s my fake brother. Fun fact: on this same night, I told Ryan’s friend (far left) that I was obsessed with twins because he’s a twin and I thought that was cool. He then proceeded to look me dead in the eye and say, “I have no f*#in idea what you’re talking about” and then turn away and ignore me. Being a big sister is hard sometimes. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/october112023 monthly 0.5 2026-01-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/d0955efb-da0a-47c3-8328-8aedb5e63469/pngtree-the-young-handsome-businessman-looking-into-future-with-binoculars-young-handsome-picture-image_2171697.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 11, 2023 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION The human eye. It can only see 40% of visible sight and 0% of invisible sight. While this statistic is fake, binoculars are very real. If you are going to experience the west or any variation of the great outdoors, it would behoove (cattalo!!) you to bring some excellent binoculars in tow. These are a great variety buy a great brand. Be careful though!! If you look too long/too hard, you might see too much, like this poor soul, pictured. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/825bb284-876c-41a2-bdc7-848077075067/91cCh7np%2BSL._AC_UF1000%2C1000_QL80_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 11, 2023 - Book RECOmMendation BOOK RECOMMENDATION Want to read about the Wild West comfortably from you chaise lounge while you drink a martini and pet your long haired Persian cat? You have but to reach for Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry. In my opinion, this is gold standard for western literature (no offense to Cormac!!). I was ENGROSSED reading this book. It contains so many rich characters and is truly an epic. Also, it was the first book published, but technically it’s the 3rd in a tetralogy, so if you love it, there is more to have. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/412dd7d8-a285-4258-a306-1cb48c1cd848/download.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 11, 2023 - Make it stand out PODCAST! If you want to get excited for your now inevitable trip to Jackson, here is a podcast episode with interesting facts about Grand Teton. It fails to mention that famed BLUGH author, Justina Sparling used to hike there but is still very informative. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/d7edcad6-43e3-4435-aa71-6eb4fe249eb4/P8070026.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 11, 2023 - Summer 2011 Jackson Peak Windswept hair, broken arm, on top of the world, South Carolina-shaped rock: THIS is living. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/october42023 monthly 0.5 2023-10-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/94dac29e-e6ea-41c8-b1d8-388443e68a22/IMG_8663B31A075A-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 4, 2023 - September 2023 Born this way Here I am mid-altering my appearance. My hair is now a slightly different color. Is it: blonder bolder brighter BLUGHier Correct! It’s D! ✨ https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/september272023 monthly 0.5 2023-10-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/4a96c15f-eff1-4950-abd7-ffc3961f7014/IMG_64042085CA03-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: September 27, 2023 - 2074 A glimpse into my future Jason and I went to the AKC Museum of the Dog a couple of weekends ago and I was a little creeped out because they actually had a portrait of me on display. Even weirder was it was a portrait of future me, with my 2 feisty Schipperkes, Bartok and Batso, in my lap. Spooky that some curator from the museum travelled to the future to snag this art piece of me for display in 2023 but I admit, it’s a nice image. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/september202023 monthly 0.5 2023-10-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/a3973de0-7533-47f0-a83e-0d7d53e7f1a5/View+recent+photos.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: September 20, 2023 - September 2022 One year at this job One year working at my current job which has an office in Hoboken with this VIEW! For those who don’t know, I work at a very big company that rhymes with Doll Cart. We basically sell everything, including…Doll Carts. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/september132023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/32aaa18b-43c9-4f28-98c9-2965448d74a7/Screen+Shot+2023-09-12+at+5.45.24+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: September 13, 2023 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION I was a Quip queen for years but then I saw the light and bought an Oral B electric toothbrush. I think my teeth were never truly clean until I used it. I had rejected electric toothbrushes because I had it in my brain that they were $12,000,000 but they’re not so expensive. P.S. What do you guys think the B in Oral B stands for? I think Bright because you have bright teeth after using. Or maybe is B for Boca which means mouth in some languages. Probably though it’s B for Brave because that is what I have to be when I go to the dentist. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/c2414110-dcac-4b23-bd5a-8fbb91976f78/9780593081112.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: September 13, 2023 - Book RECOmMendation BOOK RECOMMENDATION If you need proof that magic is real, look no further than the Derek DelGaudio’s show, In and Of Itself. It was his live show that ran 2016-2018. It’s a magic show, yes, but it’s more of a poem and an immersive art form. I felt immersed and I just watched the filmed version which can be streamed on Hulu. But I have a point to this being in the Book Recommendation section! He also has written an engrossing book called Amoralman: A True Story and Other Lies about his experience as card dealer and magician. Basically, the Dos Equis guy has nothing on Derek who is in reality the most interesting man on earth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: September 13, 2023 - Make it stand out ❌ NO TIKTOKS❌ None to share. I just need to do away with this feature!!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/75fd2f67-72cd-4654-9392-f8abbaf24531/628FED3A-ABBA-4C46-BB63-0A57230D63DE.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: September 13, 2023 - ETERNITY IN MY HEART The computer is warm À la theme of technology, if you have an iPhone you can search a word in your photos and results of that thing will come up. Search, “baby”, “forest”, “city”, and it finds those things in your camera roll which is obviously magic (and creepy). So for this technology-themed BLUGH, I searched “computer”. I have a lot of pics of computers as it turns out, but then I found this and knew I had to share! Big Mister was good at many things including sleeping. Anyone who knows anything about sleeping knows that nothing makes a cozier pillow than a warm laptop. When our dogs die, Jason gets me a stuft (correct spelling) animal of that dog and so we recreated the moment with stuft Big Mister and then I sent it to my family and we all cried. I know this is a lot to unpack and you didn’t expect this in the “Technology is Magic BLUGH” but here we are. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/september72023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/e2f5a9bf-c31a-4fe7-832d-9f93cfba427b/funny-meme-about-trader-joes-running-out-of-coconut-oil-or-raising-the-price.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: September 7, 2023 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Trader Joes. We know it, we love it. Or we don’t. Personally, it’s always so crowded when I try to go that I try to avoid it. That said, there is a product of theirs to which I am steadfastly-loyal. Their pepper grinders. And I mean just plain table pepper grinders. Here’s what I’m talking about (not sure if link legit, just go to TJ’s) for reference. Like they GRIND so well!!! Most peppers do not and so we will sometimes buy pepper from another store and just reuse the TJ’s grinder. And if you’re feeling WILD, their lemon pepper, which also comes in a grinder, is great too. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/a244fb46-9403-42ce-8875-ff0d93534be3/51mnbIJdkxL._SX366_BO1%2C204%2C203%2C200_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: September 7, 2023 - Book RECOmMendation BOOK RECOMMENDATION Hear me out: graphic novels. SO GOOD. I haven’t read as many as I would have liked but the first one I ever read was Blankets by Craig Thompson and wow, emotions. As with any book I share on the BLUGH, I don’t want to give too much away but just know it is a story of first love and you will likely feel things you haven’t felt in YEARS when reading it. At least that was my experience. A beautiful book and I loved getting to read it. IF YOU CAN: read when you are cozy and curled up with a blanket while it is snowing outside. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: September 7, 2023 - Make it stand out ❌ NO TIKTOKS❌ I can’t. This week, I can’t. Tune in next week for a collection (maybe). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/6d18e79d-d34e-481b-8f46-2add15003360/IMG_291BE1A11E8A-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: September 7, 2023 - FEBRUARY 2022 Is this love? A year and a half ago I met this bowling pin that was so much taller than me (swoon) and I’ve been thinking of him ever since. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/august302023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1f44fdbf-31ec-42eb-b510-47f075c0de63/0a2.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 30, 2023 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Product this week is optical because eye am looking out for my BLUGH readers ALWAYS. Eye drops! Do you use? I never used to. If my eyes ever needed moisture, I would create terrible imaginary scenarios in my own head and make my own tears LIKE AN ADULT. Times have changed and I now use eye drops and have 2 very good ones to share. There are 2 because they serve different purposes: iVIZIA: this is your standard, daily-use eye drop for dry eyes. Found out about this from my eye doctor and it is the BEST for dry eyes!! So good! Immediate and long-lasting relief. And it is free of some of the weird chemicals that some eye drops have. Lumify: this stuff is MAGIC. It relieves redness like nothing else I have seen. I sometimes wake up with red eyes when I don’t get my required 15 hours of beauty rest and this stuff makes me look awake/refreshed/bright-eyed. Coupla things: not meant to be used daily and don’t put in when you are wearing contacts (and no sooner than 10 min before putting in your contacts). IT’S GOOD THO DON’T WORRY JUST LIKE ANYTHING DON’T OVERUSE IT. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/0cca42f9-78c0-4dd5-aef6-c52913f0ad1a/9780349143590-us.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 30, 2023 - Book RECOmMendation BOOK RECOMMENDATION This book had a subway moment last summer. I saw SO many people reading it on the train so I had to check it out. Pulitzer Prize-winning Less by Andrew Sean Greer is so sweet and hilarious. I LOVED reading it because I laughed out loud more than once (fun fact: first ever book to make me laugh out loud was Catch-22 (fun fact within the fun fact: I never finished Catch-22 but have started it 3 times)). This book is so endearing and had a twist that really got me in the end. It’s not too cerebral but at the same time SO beautiful and sweet and like I said, funny! Strong recommend! BONUS FOR ME: I did not realize until writing this that Less was the first book in a series and so now I get to read the next book YAY!!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 30, 2023 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS Your weekly selection can be found here✨ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/e061b684-27b0-4f9e-83fc-10ff63f76932/IMG_6374.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 30, 2023 - AUGUST 2023 Swan I know I said I’d only show you the video in person but I’ll go ahead and share an action shot from this weekend’s ballet class with the BLUGH. I imagine you are struck by the grace, poise, and absolute surrender pictured here. Don’t be intimidated, I’m a human just like you. The only things that makes me different? I dance. Or whatever word you want to describe the movement occurring in this image. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/august232023 monthly 0.5 2023-08-24 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/451a2c91-28eb-4bc1-8e6c-a407d27a64b2/IMG_1A0F97FA3010-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 23, 2023 - August 2023 I voiced “aye” to the smock Champagne was sipped, decisions were made, and a dress was chosen! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/august162023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/august92023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/150edda0-6cff-423b-892b-073464c313fd/Justina%2C+Bryton%2C+Caprice+Disney+Pic+%281%29.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 9, 2023 - 2004 (See license plate) Disney The screams that were scrumpt! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/august22023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/dba02b5f-be64-4f9c-9dd6-8e070ce1be6e/1_Nordstrom+NYC+Flagship+Exterior_Credit+Connie+Zhou.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 2, 2023 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Not so much a product as a service. Is there a Nordstrom near you? If so, then RUN there and take advantage of their FREE styling services. I did this first with my mom for her and then I went for me and I was blown away. It was so helpful to have someone pick things out for me based on my size and a questionnaire I filled out ahead of time. And yes, you do have to pay for the clothing, but if you tell them your budget up front, they will stick with it. Also also, you don’t HAVE to buy anything! I wish I had known about this sooner. This is how I found out about my wonderful jeans!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/d6fe3884-2407-4f17-a937-f0b72444abe2/9781943735990-us.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 2, 2023 - Book RECOmMendation BOOK RECOMMENDATION Talking about and thinking about clothing so much can lead a person to lose sight of what is important, like really important in life. Reading is one of those things that helps bring me back to what really matters to me. Right now I am reading an amazing poetry book, You Better Be Lightning, by Andrea Gibson. I never read poetry and this has me feeling all kinds of emotions and really makes me look up from the page and stare into space in a good way. Mostly I just feel very alive and grateful to be alive when I read their work. I first heard of Andrea Gibson on this podcast episode which I highly recommend. They have a pretty big body of work so lucky me for just now discovering them. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 2, 2023 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS Alright alright, I have a few. You can find them here ✨ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/70093b91-c5ac-4ff4-a318-623fc573e466/justina%2Bcollege%2B2.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: August 2, 2023 - AUGUST 2017 Pre-Nordstrom years I wore this outfit PROUDLY when I moved into my college dorm. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/july262023 monthly 0.5 2025-11-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/afcaf6d6-7b5a-41ac-b418-743a88dd2ccc/IMG_7C578E712C31-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: July 26, 2023 - July 2023 Hazel Honestly wasn’t going to post a pic but this needs to be recognized. These are the puppiest dog eyes I’ve ever seen! Sorry to say I don’t have a single quote from Hazel because she doesn’t speak. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/july192023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/d9f2c7bc-c778-4103-a7bf-5ca8620749e3/IMG_6062+2.PNG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: July 19, 2023 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Remember this pic from last week? If you look very closely you can see that it has been altered with the incredibly user-friendly, AI-powered app, Bazaart. Friend of the BLUGH, Miley, told me about this app and I can see myself VERY easily going down a rabbit hole of hilarity. But it does more than make newsletter subscribers laugh out loud (or jump scare). It’s particularly great for very easy to produce promotional artwork and the “photoshop” capabilities are fun and intuitive to use. The “Magic Edit” feature is the pièce de résistance that brought you this gem you see before you. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/4b27ba0a-42f6-4434-ae08-5937baf4a89b/51EgoPDE9wL._SY445_SX342_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: July 19, 2023 - Book RECOmMendation BOOK RECOMMENDATION Blind recommend: I have only just started this book but in the interest of keeping on theme, I am going to go ahead and recommend! Humans, by Matt Haig, is about human people as viewed through the eyes of an extraterrestrial visiting earth. I know AI does not equal extraterrestrial but WORK WITH ME. I am familiar with Matt Haig because of another book of his I read, The Midnight Library, which is SO GOOD. His material is light, nothing too cerebral, but sometimes that’s exactly what you need. Also, he tends to leave the reader feeling hopeful, which is lovely and frankly, needed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: July 19, 2023 - Make it stand out ❌ NO TIKTOKS❌ Just lose this feature of the BLUGH already, you grumble with frustration at the screen. I know, I know. It’s just so hard to let go. When not abused to the point of addiction, TikTok is so fun/educational/informative!! But I remain on a TikTok cleanse and so have nothing to offer you this week. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/f3cf1840-7388-48de-8967-7fe8efc0d606/IMG_6441.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: July 19, 2023 - July 202o Be still, my Eck-Heart! 3 years ago, friend of the BLUGH, Lisa, introduced me to Eckhart Tolle and I’ve been making it everybody’s business since then! I’ve already recommended his work in the BLUGH, and have gifted A New Earth multiple times. Oh and I was (fake) blonde 3 years ago WHAT. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/july122023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/6f03bf28-04f2-4594-bc52-a30b9bb73af4/IMG_DD574E8E3F5A-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: July 12, 2023 - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/july52023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/31cfbebe-7384-4a36-bea0-ad5190ebf8cd/Screen+Shot+2023-07-04+at+10.26.14+AM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: July 5, 2023 - PRODUCT RECOmMendation PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION NOT JUST FOR COWBOYS. My boot collection grew in size when I moved out west to New York City. Limber though I am, getting boots off is difficult, especially for someone like me who doesn’t want to touch shoes that were just outside walking on NYC sidewalks. Enter: Boot Jack, a simple device that makes life a tad easier. Also, please explain to me why I can’t find a list of “most emotionally taxing Garth Brooks’ interviews” but can find a list of best boot jacks? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/027ce39d-5631-4b10-900b-0b2754b2b8f1/0062069047.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_SX500_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: July 5, 2023 - Book RECOmMendation BOOK RECOMMENDATION Have you heard of the Louvin Brothers? Neither had I until I encountered this masterpiece of an album with covers of their music by artists including Alison Kraus, Merle Haggard, and Emmylou Harris. IT’S AMAZING. But for reading purposes, check out Satan is Real: The Ballad of the Louvin Brothers. It’s a memoir of their lives, written by Charlie (Ira died young) and it is wild. I mean, look at the cover of the book, that was a cover of one of their albums. They did that. I also learned the term “nudie suit” from reading this book. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: July 5, 2023 - Make it stand out ❌ NO TIKTOKS❌ Again, no TikToks to offer. Should I sunset this feature of the BLUGH? While I ponder that decision, please watch my best friend, 2 Chainz embrace country music here, here, and here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/74ad2bbc-1a04-46a8-885a-7b569738645a/Screen+Shot+2023-07-04+at+10.46.47+AM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: July 5, 2023 - JUNE 20, 2023 Orville Peck I got to see the wonderful Orville Peck at the Theater at MSG last month. He was AMAZING. I only recently discovered him and his music and am so glad I did!! Country music is missing out by not playing him on the radio. He’s the best. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/june282023 monthly 0.5 2023-07-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/de9b5ce2-9865-41d1-93f1-3065ce0589a6/IMG_3285.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: June 28, 2023 - Sometime in 2020 Prison Cried laughing at this photo my sister found on her phone recently. Am I scared? Surprised? Repentant? Maybe a mixture of all of the above but likely just nervous that my sister discovered I stole her shirt to wear or something like that. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/june212023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/9f258cab-9db3-4b17-b18d-fa1abd9b3e9f/Untitled.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: June 21, 2023 - PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION NOT JUST FOR TEACHERS. I feel like maybe I am very late to the party here but do you guys know about Erin Condren notebooks and planners? They’re legit and she always has some new, interesting designs. I love a notebook to write ideas in and also to keep track of what is happening in my life! She used to have the “Perpetual” collection which was just this very slim, one line a day planner to keep track quickly of events. Great for people like me who want to remember lyfe events but struggle with full on journaling. Alas, currently not on the website but there are alternatives elsewhere. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/aa88a9fd-75a6-4144-8929-325ef7bc2bf7/9780812533552-us.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: June 21, 2023 BOOK RECOMMENDATION Being a grown up is overrated, so read a book meant for young adults. Ender’s Game is SO GOOD I COULD NOT BEAR IT. It’s a sci-fi classic and if you don’t think sci-fi is for you, I still urge (urge!!!) you to give this a shot. PICTURE IT: it’s the weekend, it’s raining but you are cozy inside and want to make the most of this rare block of free time. You look around your apartment and make a mental to do list of the things you need to clean, the papers you need to organize, the people you need to call. But then you spy it: Ender’s Game, a book you purchased at the recommendation of the BLUGH. You think, “this is silly, it was written in the 1980s for children. How puerile!”. You walk away to call your uncle (it’s his birthday). But then you turn back. “Oh a couple of pages couldn’t hurt!” you mumble to yourself as you begrudgingly pick up the small paperback. Next thing you know, you put the fully read book down, exhilarated by the experience of reading such a brilliant, hopeful, and meaningful volume. But wait! It’s dark outside! The day is over! You forgot to call your uncle on his birthday! You frantically dial knowing that he might pick up since he’s a night owl. And of course he does. “Hello dear!” he exclaims coyly as if it’s not his birthday. Silly, wonderful man. “Happy birthday, Uncle Orson! I’m so sorry for calling so late. I was reading this amazing book. It’s called Ender’s Game, have you heard of it?” Silence on the other end of the line and then, “why, **insert your name**, indeed I have. Did you like it?”. You then wax lyrical for 30+ minutes about the virtues of the book. After some time, you end your pleasant catch up with your uncle and say goodnight. You go to bed, knowing you spent the day in the best way you possibly could by reading that amazing—wait. WAIT. Uncle…Orson…you reach for the book you read all day. Ender’s Game, by ORSON SCOTT CARD….Your uncle…is…Orson Scott Card. You call your brother and ask him if he knew your uncle was Orson Scott Card. Sure enough, he did. Everyone knows that. He’s kind of famous. How could you not know that, sis? You tell your brother that he doesn’t have to be so high and mighty about this. He apologizes because he’s been working on it. You tell him it’s ok and say your goodbyes. You put the phone down, get up, and walk to the window where you stare out your window into the vast expanse of stars, the setting for Ender’s Game. It’s been an impactful day. You vow to learn all your family member’s full names, write them down in an Erin Condren notebook so you know if any of them are famous authors before you give them a birthday call. It’s what Ender would want. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: June 21, 2023 - Make it stand out ❌NO TIKTOKS❌ GO READ A BOOK! Jkjkjkjkjk. 4 real tho, I have to detox a bit from the ol’ scroll scroll scroll scroll. As previously established, too many books to read. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/5ab08b9e-78c7-435f-b55f-c2910ef91cad/IMG_88D043298B75-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: June 21, 2023 - JUNE 2023 A Meal Fit For a BLUGH Here’s that adult meal I mentioned earlier. Want to be an adult like me? Recipe here (originally of Milk Street but they make you pay so thank you to this man in Houston). https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/june142023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/ab2bbda6-8621-4740-87e7-5239ca70c4d3/Screen+Shot+2023-06-13+at+8.04.13+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: June 14, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Ready to magically turn strangers into friends? Then let’s get busy. I met one of the kindest people I know in a class (more on this later)! I love a little class. “Adult For Fun and For Learning and For Growing Classes” I have taken include but are not limited to: French: retained little to nothing. Lamp making: I can now make a very specific type of lamp. Dance: also served as a class on memory because damn you have to remember the steps. Perfume making: Made a very weird perfume. Bob Ross Painting workshop: many happy accidents filled my canvas. It’s cute and people are happy to be there because we are choosing to learn about something that interests us. Imagine! Now of COURSE I have gone to a class or two and left quickly thereafter with no one knowing my name. I’m mysterious like that. But it’s lovely to try something new! Here are a few websites for finding classes/activities in your area: Course Horse (my fav, they have SO many things) Vimbly (only in major big cities) CocuSocial (cooking!!) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/72733704-2d2a-40ba-9de0-b2e25c50afac/download+%281%29.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: June 14, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION YOUR TURN! Ladies and gentlemen, strangers and friends, what are YOU reading? The end goal is for me to have the library from Beauty and the Beast, so the more books the better. Have a book you think I should check out? I beg, reply to this email and tell me what’s up!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: June 14, 2023 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS A collection of TikToks to please both strangers and friends https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/ae0030ef-e1f1-4e16-99a3-d13839a0e486/308391367_1910867032452240_1618754895143448457_n.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: June 14, 2023 - SEPTEMBER 2022 We met in a perfume class Kat (red head, center, questioning the validity of whatever I’m saying) and I met in a perfume class early 2022 and are now friends!! This is mostly due to Kat who is the master of approaching new people, making them feel at ease, and charming them with her conversation and wit. This pic is from another class we took where we learned about French fashion. It was great because we tried clothes on, and I spilled wine all over a very expensive dress and then we fled. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/june72023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/bf67937e-7f73-47d2-ace6-b4291d6b457d/Screenshot+2023-06-06+143632.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: June 7, 2023 - OK, not his eyes for they are closed. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/17d3f66a-f56c-4b6a-a355-1e25c3666cb5/Screenshot+2023-06-06+143645.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: June 7, 2023 - STOP!!!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/909eaec1-c749-44a0-b0d3-2ae5723d0374/Screenshot+2023-06-06+143701.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: June 7, 2023 - CLEARLY POSING FOR THE CAMERA! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/f85da661-dde0-4910-80b9-165a7403d8d7/Screenshot+2023-06-06+143726.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: June 7, 2023 - Oh snap, this one is a lil scary but STILL CUTE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/3285f29c-0bf4-48ad-9563-aa15c3735e9d/Screenshot+2023-06-06+143743.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: June 7, 2023 - Sweet Silky Anteater!!!! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/may312023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/5b8f6705-0dc7-4cb0-aece-123cb0b9964b/912X4vgX86L._AC_UF350%2C350_QL80_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: May 31, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION SUMMER IS ALMOST UPON US. Generally, I’m happy about this. One thing I need to adjust every summer is my hydration habit. I usually don’t drink any water when I leave the house because I don’t like to use public bathrooms. It’s dangerous, but it works. No can do in the summer though, especially the unforgiving and brutal NYC summer. So rest assured, I will drink tons of water, but I will also have these on hand to boost hydration even more. They are delicious and Raspberry Salt is my favorite. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/7899a5f7-b0fe-4f61-9886-bf08f9555875/31210536093.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: May 31, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION Westboro Baptist Church? Yikes doesn’t begin to cover it. That said, I strongly recommend anyone and everyone read: Unfollow: A Memoir of Loving and Leaving the Westboro Baptist Church. It’s rough. It’s also VERY well written and Megan Phelps-Roper is very talented. It’s an excellent telling of life on the inside and is both heartbreaking and hopeful! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: May 31, 2023 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS Weekly collection right here. Enjoy!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/7b837a56-c009-4b93-81c1-5807a3a90fb1/IMG_9BFE40CE78F5-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: May 31, 2023 - May 6, 2023 Dreams do come true Before May comes to an official close, let me share with you this AMAZING experience I got to have. Friend of the BLUGH, Miley, came up to New York to support her sister in the Westminster Dog Agility competition and I got to go and watch and support. It was amazing and I am so grateful that Leslie and her pup, Mach Molly (please include Mach in her title at all times) made it to Westminster so I could live my dream of being surrounded by dogs for a full day. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/may242023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/28994c22-2d12-457d-bfcf-245cad0b1b1e/istockphoto-144350363-612x612.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: May 24, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Do you, like me, lack a green thumb? I have fantastic news. The yucca plant is incredibly sturdy, requires minimal care, and is cheap! The trifecta! That said, let’s say you’re more serious than I am about house plant care, Planta is a legitimately awesome app and their tagline is “Keep your plants alive”. I don’t think they could be more straightforward about their goal if they tried. FINAL PLANT RELATED THING: always keep in mind what plants are toxic to your beloved pets. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/02428737-caba-4a87-94b2-6a1d51c8ca7b/prodigal-summer.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: May 24, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION When I tried to think of books that were green, the first thing that came to mind was Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver, a novel I read like 12 years ago and LOVED. Reading it made me feel wild (like a coyote wild) and want to be outside. In fact, I think I read this book mostly while outdoors because that felt appropriate. Also, she has no shortage of books from which to choose so go wild! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: May 24, 2023 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS You know who is ostentatiously green? Grogu. I started curating Grogu/Mandolorian Tiktoks and the collection is here. It is nowhere near exhaustive of all the amazing Grogu content, but is a good start. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1e0a59ee-f318-4542-a576-3d37eb8d401b/DK9A9059.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: May 24, 2023 - May 20, 2023 Parks are green FULLY GOT ENGAGED IN CENTRAL PARK OVER THE WEEKEND. It was pretty awesome. Feels good and has been fun telling people and now it is BLUGH official!! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/may172023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/70d5fc27-6725-4763-bf01-3b7e8b6fcbb5/IMG_5600.PNG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: May 17, 2023 - May 14, 2023 Naturally photogenic It’s obvious that the camera loves me and the latest example is this blessing of a photo taken by the courier who delivered my delayed checked luggage the day after my flight. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/may32023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/a79f2146-4a4b-4f05-8339-5a1c05b16280/Screen+Shot+2023-05-02+at+8.27.41+AM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: May 3, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Obviously, I have a hair potion recommendation. I love my potions. This one is good!! It’s the Blossom & Bloom Ginseng + Biotin Hair Volumizing Spray from Briogeo. Long name, smells amazing, makes hair soft and smooth, lasts a long time. Need I say more? YES. Be sure to check out TJ Maxx for this product because this can be found there at a bargain sometimes!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/f0b76a72-4651-45ef-b39d-be80ece30a16/the-gift-of-the-magi-9781501115929_hr.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: May 3, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION Worried about hair? Try giving it all away and then get back to me. Who among you has read the Christmas short story, Gift of the Magi? Seriously, if you’ve read it, PLEASE let me know. If you haven’t, read right now and then let me know your thoughts!! I want to talk about this story! Are we pleased with the young couple’s decisions? Are we frustrated? Have they heard of credit cards?! It’s very sweet, I concede. I hope you enjoy and it gets you in the gift giving spirit in time for my birthday (5/21, mark it on the cal). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/f7d7e0af-80b2-4600-bf8e-dbfd2a2016cd/youtube-logo-hd-8.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: May 3, 2023 - Make it stand out YOUTUBE Guess who else has bangs? The little kid from this Pixar short that I was obsessed with. It still kills me. Which Pixar short is your fav?! P.S. Sorry for the low quality vid! All these shorts now live on Disney+ and so the YouTube videos are giving “pirated”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/c6122426-1760-4aad-a7bf-530d78f111e7/IMG_839ADDCBDBD0-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: May 3, 2023 - 2021 The year I went gray You know I’m always up to some shenanigans. Here I am in character for a sketch I did way back in 2021. Got 4 minutes? Here you go. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/april262023 monthly 0.5 2023-05-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/fce99b9a-6616-456a-b838-6d96a22debbb/Screen+Shot+2023-04-24+at+9.43.25+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: April 26, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION In an attempt to be present, let me tell you what is happening right this now as I write the BLUGH. I am sipping on a non-alcoholic beverage meant to stave my craving for an ACTUAL glass of wine. It’s nice! FYI found this gem of a stock photo when I typed “drunk on life” into the iStock search. The alcohol alternative beverage market has grown a lot and I am delighted by the variety of options and appalled by the fact that most of these non-alcoholic drinks are JUST AS EXPENSIVE AS ALCOHOLIC DRINKS WHAT IS THAT ABOUT?! Anyway, here are my favorite alcohol alternatives if you’d like to give them a try: Wine alternative. NOT wine-like, just nice to sip as one would sip wine. Beer. Very beer like, I think this is very tasty and absolutely hits the spot for a post work cold one. Ready to go cocktail. Tastes…incredible!!! Rum alternative. Random and I wouldn’t have purchased this but got it as a gift (ty, Jason ❤️) and love it with some lime La Croix. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/a746df9f-2e77-4787-bfb6-8dafd57695a9/9781472263667-us.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: April 26, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION Speaking of worrying about the future…dystopian societies, anybody? I seriously love anything that is set in a dystopian reality. I have read many books and seen many movies and TV shows about this topic (all fictional, no real scaries), and one of my favorite dystopian novels is Parable of the Sower. This book is so good (not feel-good though!) and Octavia E. Butler was one of the most creative storytellers. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: April 26, 2023 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS Sometimes I have to escape the present and the future! That’s where TikTok comes in. Here’s this week’s collection of TikToks that delighted and entertained me. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/9d3625b6-087b-4c79-befd-1bf5a7b67bb6/PB070126.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: April 26, 2023 - November 2011 Me and Stacey My friend, Stacey, and I in front of a convent she lived in (fr) in New Orleans the fall after college. Would like to time travel to tell those girls their futures are bright. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/april192023 monthly 0.5 2023-05-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/0a4a994c-b4fb-497c-b7c5-9cb4e7c4399d/Screen+Shot+2023-04-17+at+1.02.25+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: April 19, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Should I really be promoting consumerism in a BLUGH meant to encourage creativity? In this case, YES, because I am promoting a fellow creative. We discovered her on Instagram (social media can be used for good) and she is such a cool lady. I mean, look at this and this and this. If watercolor is your thing, I definitely recommend checking out her shops (she has two): Blule and Colour Up Your Day. She is in Australia so please be patient with shipping. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/962d1a87-94e4-4d6e-9344-3335ecee6f26/9781410491169-us.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: April 19, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION I have already discussed the Creativity Bible, The Artist’s Way, in a previous BLUGH, so I want to take this opportunity to promote a book that really got me feeling/thinking/being more creative. My Brilliant Friend and the subsequent books that are of the Neapolitan Novels, are engrossing, yes, but also made me feel smarter and more creative? I’ve never encoutnered a writing style like Elena Ferrante’s (nom de plume) and I know I am not alone when I say it’s very special. It is not happy stuff hahaha but it inspired me to write and listen and live!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/43b246c0-d1dc-4a05-bc5f-4bd7c516faff/png-transparent-app-logo-media-popular-social-tumblr-web-2018-social-media-app-logos-icon.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: April 19, 2023 - Make it stand out TUMBLR Do you guys remember tumblr!?!?!? tumblr consumed me from the years 2010-2013. I was INTO IT. And now, today, April 19, 2023, I share with you, my tumblr. There is no original content, mind you!! I just used it to reblog content I thought was funny, clever, cute, or aesthetically pleasing. It’s a little time capsule into some of my creativity (is curating digital pictures a creative activity?)!! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/77707b61-c248-46bf-bf7b-03734ea8f5aa/IMG_61E2DD41CA5D-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: April 19, 2023 - 199? Self Portrait Lips. Eyes. Shorts. Hair. I dabbled in the visual arts in my youth and here I am pictured with myself in a drawing buy me. I signed this artwork because I knew it was special. I really appreciate the little leg tilt of the one in the background? Subtle, but powerful. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/april122023 monthly 0.5 2023-04-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/03232a8c-6d88-45f6-b76a-c4108f9f4a6a/IMG_5197+2+%282%29.gif The BLUGH - The BLUGH: April 12, 2023 - April 2023 A glimpse into the quotidiane existence Here’s Bryton (middle sis) suffering through this NONSENSE. #loveisblind4 https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/april52023 monthly 0.5 2023-04-25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/be434c08-6e9e-4a47-aae6-b9b53cf93763/download.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: April 5, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION I GOTTA DO IT. The product rec of the week is improv classes. In NYC, I am partial to the aforementioned Magnet Theater. Their classes expand beyond improv and the teachers are amazing. I literally met my core NYC friend group through these classes and learned so much about how to be a supportive improviser and have the most fun on stage. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/74262910-d52f-42b3-bc2c-218ec14a60dd/Screen+Shot+2023-04-05+at+7.44.45+AM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: April 5, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION Want to laugh but aren’t up for an improv show? No problem, you can read Hits & Misses by Simon Rich. This is a collection of humor stories he wrote and they are a delight and very funny. He’s written a few books but this one is near and dear because it contains probably my favorite ever humorous short story, Riding Solo: The Oatsy Story, which you can read here without purchasing the book! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: April 5, 2023 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS GUYS, nothing to share here! The Tiks didn’t Tok for me this week. I AM SORRY. This is probably for the best because who really NEEDS more short form videos to scroll through so you are WELCOME. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/40456c26-3ad3-42b8-98c2-7ea0e871e93e/IMG_5162.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: April 5, 2023 - APRIL 2023 The Show Last Night Jason and I got to do some comedy (not improv tho!!) in Hi, Nice People at Caveat last night and it was so much fun! Here’s a pic of a ridiculous presentation I did. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/march292023 monthly 0.5 2023-04-19 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/14882a79-1133-4faa-9b2b-706a3d9d357e/Screenshot+2023-03-28+160826.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 29, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Much like lip balms, I have tried all the skincare. All. The. Skincare. A big waste of money BUT I have found some absolute gems, one of which is this wonderful skin saving serum from Krave. I could compose many verses about the merits of this product but the 3 main things you need to know are: It smells amazing but has no added fragrance. It HEALS your skin, I don’t know how but it does. And it makes your skin stronger? I SWEAR. The bottle is designed in such a way so that all the product is used. Do you understand? Every last drop. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/530af173-06a9-423f-87d5-16b98a82cbba/81V5-aC%2BHZL._AC_UF1000%2C1000_QL80_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 29, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION Readers of the BLUGH will know that I LOVE Stoicism (capital S). I discovered it through reading. Meditations? Letters From a Stoic? Discourses? No, No, and No. It was Former MTV VJ, Karen Duffy’s book, Wise Up. I LOVE THIS BOOK. It’s not even a book I would typically read. It’s formatted as letters to her son and is so funny and endearing and empowering! Imagine not taking things personally! A dream. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 29, 2023 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS I am always looking to enhance the user experience of my BLUGH readers. As such, I have created a new, less clicky, less back and forthy way to share TikToks with you: a collection. Here is this week’s collection! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/067e7bb1-db23-47a4-97ef-fc5e0d8cb821/IMAG0012.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 29, 2023 - February 2014 Hazel Classic I didn’t know what photo to share for this week so I scrolled to the oldest photo on my phone and it was this. It’s not great but it does have sweet Hazel, my best friend. When we first adopted her, she was not dog aggressive but then a switch flipped and she became dog aggressive. In this photo, though, she sits peacefully with Mister (RIP), the brown blob, to her left. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/march222023 monthly 0.5 2023-04-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/b81a84a5-a34f-4314-a1d8-dbb10fd0f94a/Screen+Shot+2023-03-21+at+7.18.00+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 22, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION If you know me, you know I LOVE perfume!!! I have not tried these perfumes but I wanted to include these in the BLUGH because I feel like people should KNOW that such a perfume line exists. Zoologist Perfumes is a Canadian perfume company wherein all the perfumes are named after and inspired by animals. In a good way, not a weird way!! They have lots of great sample options if you see something that appeals to you. You can even sample the whole zoo! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/4cc33d61-be1e-4f33-83ee-78f4fee056fd/9781407135595-us.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 22, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION Hard to find a book with animals where one doesn’t DIE (Looking at you, Where the Red Fern Grows ). Fortunately, the His Dark Materials series exists and it has anthropomorphic polar bears and daemons. What are daemons? A person’s external manifestation in animal form WOWOWOW. This is a young adult fantasy novel series but it is lit and I have read all the books through twice because they are amazing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 22, 2023 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS I delete TikTok once a week but one of the things that pulls me back are the animals!!! I hope you love them as much as I do. PSA No cats harmed! Pigeon lyfe Cat is thrilled Cat is CONFUSED Horse snow angel https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/155486e1-f70e-49a8-aade-a84af4aad313/P9190947.JPG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 22, 2023 - September 2019 Not my parrot A parrot I met in Colombia. Much like my local laundromat’s parrots, he spoke only Spanish and much like my local laundromat’s parrots, I felt an immediate connection. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/march152023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/4e606fa2-a698-4835-a66c-a7b61fa0463b/Screen+Shot+2023-03-19+at+9.39.39+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 15, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Haven’t tried it BUT it fits the theme. The first hand review that my friend, Lisa (goddess), gave this hand cream was staggering. The fact that I haven’t ordered it yet is honestly concerning because when people tell me about amazing new products, my motto is “no think, only buy”. Also, I love donkeys so much, they are sweet angels. Manifesting this lotion and a donkey of my very own in the near future. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/4230ab8c-8fea-4d6a-9c8b-3e5d4de6930b/9780316438537_p0_v4_s600x595.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 15, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION There are many great books on Greek Mythology. The most recent one I read is one that I got for my 33rd birthday (dreams do come true). The 75th anniversary edition of Edith Hamilton’s Mythology is a beautiful book. It’s definitely more reference-y than story-y, but is wonderful nonetheless if you are interested in Greek mythology. Edith Hamilton was a badass by the way and became an honorary citizen of Athens and it was the proudest moment of her life (DREAMS DO COME TRUE). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/29473f0d-c36c-49bc-9b7d-06108b8b5701/Screen+Shot+2023-03-14+at+10.08.32+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 15, 2023 - Make it stand out YOUTUBE Sorry, no TikToks this week BUT I have something very special for you. In my sophomore Western Civ class at College of Charleston, we were tasked with filming a Greek tragedy. My group chose Medea by Euripides and I played the role of, yes, Medea. I really committed and it’s some of my best work. There are 16 minutes of footage, I do not expect you to watch it all. Look out for this absolute fox pictured to the left (on desktop) or above (on mobile) if you want to see a powerful performance. Part 1 Part 2 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/27e722e8-475e-4d9b-bd23-7f53abd0baa0/IMG_5065.GIF The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 15, 2023 - September 2022 Medusa Gotcha. You are now stone. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/march82023 monthly 0.5 2023-04-19 https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/march12023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/f57989a4-c931-4106-a155-b11f2088e239/220613153916-growling-bear-stock-super-tease.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 1, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Omg that bear is so scary and headed right towards you! It was hard for me to figure out what product to feature in a hero-themed BLUGH. Bear Spray is a must for hiking in certain areas of the USA and could save your life. It can also save a bear’s life! They get warned that humans are not friends and steer clear. More info here. Also, I did not know bear spray was a thing until I moved to Wyoming after college! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/192eb1ca-008f-4099-95c6-5abb32a6c05a/0817993924.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_SX500_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 1, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION Very happy to share this author with you this week. James Bond Stockdale used stoicism (I love stoicism) as as tool to survive POW camp in Vietnam. You can start slow by reading Courage Under Fire, a speech he gave at King’s College in 1993 or dive right into Thoughts of a Philosophical Fighter Pilot. Life can be very hard, but as James said, “I think character is permanent, and issues are transient” (the quote of today’s BLUGH ). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/f7d7e0af-80b2-4600-bf8e-dbfd2a2016cd/youtube-logo-hd-8.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 1, 2023 - Make it stand out YOUTUBE Had to forego TikTok because reflecting on my Whose Line Heroes sent me down a delightful rabbit hole. Does anyone else remember how great it was? Embarrassing but now this woman is canonized Some Greatest Hits Best of Laughter https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1678847816459-4DYUGRIX1UNTQKOKFJLE/dr%2Bpaul%2B006.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: March 1, 2023 - October 2007 Real Life Hero I had the opportunity to meet a real life hero once. It is difficult to conceptualize how much good Dr. Paul Farmer did until he died last year and his legacy lives on in the organization Partners In Health. If you want to know the tip of the iceberg of what he did, I highly recommend reading Tracy Kidder’s Mountains Beyond Mountains. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/february222023 monthly 0.5 2023-03-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/45446ec3-0c89-4f11-b668-86570a655fe7/2_2.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 22, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION This is the first ✨READER SUBMITTED✨ product recommendation. While I cannot vouch for this myself, the endorsement that Kat gave this hair dryer would lead anyone to believe she were deeply in love with it. It is light, it is effective, it is kind, it is hard working, it treats your parents well….oh, oh my…I am in love with the SMART-X™ High Efficiency Dryer too. Yes, it is expensive, but this is the luxury BLUGH so go crazy (or ask your stylist to get you one at a discount from a salon wholesaler (or just do eBay)). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/0d21e5b3-b1de-4ca0-b7cc-7332798a2847/51meTQ%2BnUJL._SY344_BO1%2C204%2C203%2C200_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 22, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION Luxury + reading = beach read. In case you didn’t know, Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine is HILARIOUS and sweet and touching and SO SO SO good! It’s also one of those books where you read it and you can hear the accent of the characters! Many people know of this book because of Reese Witherspoon’s Book Club which, by the way, is a very good book club and the books she curates are really genuinely good. This book can be read at the beach and also different geographies such as mountains, cityscapes, lakes, and beyond. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 22, 2023 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS The greatest luxury of them all: scrolling mindlessly through Tik Tok. Here are this week’s picks: How To Be Kidnapped Siblings Texting Fast Friends LUXURY https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/abf1e3b1-e83d-421b-8741-daafa210f148/IMG_542AD57DF0E6-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 22, 2023 - February 21, 2023 Eataly This BLUGH is brought to you by Eataly where I sat, drank wine, and made this week’s BLUGH happen! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/february152023 monthly 0.5 2023-03-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/7181d206-6c3e-483d-b616-06519a9a5804/Screen+Shot+2023-03-28+at+8.42.54+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 15, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION I found the best smelling hand sanitizer known to mankind! I found it the old fashioned way just walking through Brooklyn. When I walked in (almost a year ago), the owner asked me to do a video review and so I did. The orange is my favorite but they are all amazing! Bonus feature: people are ALWAYS grateful to you when you have hand sanitizer at the ready. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/a3b09cbf-2bd4-4b01-8d1e-2b24f856d674/525fde63-9deb-4990-bf1f-0323b7ef779c_1.c61bb10571a9f41514bdabfd65da2de5.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 15, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION If you are in search for gratitude for your circumstances in life and you find that you need perspective, I recommend reading Nothing to Envy. This beautiful book tells the stories of survivors of Kim Il-sung’s and Kim Jon-il’s North Korea. It shook me up but I am glad I read it. It’s a hard and emotional read and it left me feeling amazed at the things I take for granted and the bravery and perseverance of people. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 15, 2023 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS I am always grateful for dumb and educational Tik Toks. Here are some of my favs from this past week: PPT Genius (this is more of a plug for the account as a whole - ppt lessons abound) Cunk (watch the show on Netflix!!!) Gossip Alternatives I love this so much https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/ce3a3a05-1755-4c66-b4be-e41326678a27/SNAP_20230214-203648.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 15, 2023 - February 14, 2023 No filter!!!!!! Moi. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/february82023 monthly 0.5 2023-02-22 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/97d84e0c-2400-4c4c-9210-291e50e6610b/Screen+Shot+2023-02-07+at+7.53.05+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 8, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION I am recommending a whole entire store this week. Kitsch is an online shop selling very cheap CUTE accessories. It is great for gifts for others or for yourself! I especially love their selection of hair clips and satin pillowcases. ENJOY! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/ba338134-8076-4f89-8dfd-ab71defae039/Screen+Shot+2023-02-07+at+7.54.30+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 8, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION Valentine’s Day is KIND of on the mind since it’s next week so I wanted to share my favorite love story ever. A lot of people are familiar with Their Eyes Were Watching God and they should be familiar with it because wow. I’ve read it 3 times and hope to read it 30 more. I LOVE this book. This book is my valentine. No spoilers but it is sad so prepare thyself! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 8, 2023 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS This week’s crop! I hope you enjoy! My Tok Cello Suite No. 1 in G major Chat GPT hack for Google Sheets NYC Lyfe https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/7c5584f3-0fab-4ca2-a36d-d9bbb2211087/Screen+Shot+2023-02-07+at+7.56.01+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: February 8, 2023 - 2019, but also the present Reductress. Almost 4 years ago I did a stock photo shoot for Reductress and the photos taken that day show up from time to time to delight and confuse my friends and family. If you are not already familiar, Reductress is a satirical online magazine and they are hilarious. This headline pictured here is the most ✨Justina✨ of any of the ones I’ve been featured in, so I was honored to see this. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/january252023 monthly 0.5 2023-02-15 https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/january182023 monthly 0.5 2023-02-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/6686910d-4117-4a64-a0c3-0671d1a0110c/5102vrrk%2BgL.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 18, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Old reliable. My sweet stick. Moisture USB. These are but a few of the affectionate (and uncomfortable) names I have for the best lip balm of all time. I cannot begin to explain how much money I have spent on lip balms. This affordable option with several colors to choose from is the best one of them all and I have literally tried them all. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/ff0357ff-0686-4d94-af52-5c746b5740a9/retina-atomic-habits-dots.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 18, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION YES I KNOW THIS BOOK IS EVERYWHERE. But this is an endorsement not only for Atomic Habits, but also for the concept of not reading the whole book. TO BE CLEAR: I RECOMMEND THIS BOOK. But at the 80% mark or so, I was kind of done. And there are many good books to read. So maybe just put the book down that you can’t finish or skim it and move on to the next great read. Also, maybe just borrow Atomic Habits because Jim has already sold more than 10 mil copies. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 18, 2023 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS Here’s my top 3 from this past week, enjoy! Chompilation Young Celine Dion <3 Insecurity https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/d9aef434-99ba-47b0-9ae1-6a151629f018/woman-fainting_orig.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 18, 2023 - Anytime GELASTIC SYNCOPE. Here I am pictured gelastic syncopeing (syncopeeing!?!?! lol) at my own joke, a weekly occurrence. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/january112023 monthly 0.5 2023-02-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/e3b5c7ed-91fd-4a35-a25a-2631335fbe92/stovetop-popcorn-popper-ss-6qt.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 11, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION This product was originally a Christmas gift to me from Jason but I think he would agree that it is a very Jason product. The amount of popcorn we consume on a weekly basis is incalculable. And if you’re going to eat that much popcorn, please do it right and use the Whirley-Pop. It makes the BEST popcorn. Microwave popcorn is OUT, Whirley-Pop Popcorn is IN. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/47fd0a21-261a-4545-991d-32522c5ba2b7/9781565115248.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 11, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION I wouldn’t say this is Jason’s favorite book, I don’t know if he has a favorite book (BAD GF!!). But Live from New York represents more than just an interesting read. It is a collection of interviews and anecdotes related to one of the most important institutions in Jason’s life, SNL. I have read it and found it to be fascinating and hope they make a newer edition with interviews with cast members and hosts involved since the books’s most recent publication in 2015. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 11, 2023 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS One of my ALL TIME FAVORITE things to do with Jason is send him TikToks, let them collect in his TikTok inbox and then force him watch what I sent him while I stare at his face so I can see his reactions to what I sent him. This past week was some of my best work so here are a few highlights of great TikToks I sent Jason recently. Cult Subway Magic Perfection Peace On Earth https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/8012ea64-3661-4a0d-a60e-d87ea67a1049/IMG_2733.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 11, 2023 - FEbruary 2023 (the future!!) SHOW ALERT. Jason’s not having a birthday party. He’s having a birthday SHOW. And the lineup is INCREDIBLE. Anyone can go. Everyone SHOULD go. It will be at Young Ethel’s on Saturday, February 11 at 3 and you BETTER be there! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/january042023 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/914b48b6-2f45-46f4-ac4e-a2fa71b96f3c/Screen+Shot+2023-01-03+at+3.09.28+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 4, 2023 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Caprice LOVES a lipstick and she thinks you would too. She has had many excellent brands and colors but the latest craze are these Clinique Pop options. They are so crème fraîche that she bought them as gifts for people and decided to keep them for herself. If that’s not an endorsement, I don’t know what is. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/f16b349f-ce32-4e1b-b9f8-d3c1de1c20e3/Screen+Shot+2023-01-03+at+3.22.03+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 4, 2023 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION As established, Caprice reads so many books! She probably has a recommendation for every genre, but for now, let’s go with anything by Taylor Jenkins Reid. You know her! She’s written gems such as Daisy Jones and The Six, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, as well as One True Loves. I haven’t yet read any TJR yet but I’m like, “Seven Husbands? Pop off, Evelyn!!”. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/049fe20e-abe6-4a83-b3b9-28f2f9ad770e/reddit-logo.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 4, 2023 - Make it stand out REDDIT!!? A week in which I skip TikToks - can you believe? While Caprice is definitely a TikTok consumer, her preferred social media platform of choice is Reddit. It took me 9 years to figure out how to use Reddit but I can confirm it is a cool place to be. Some of Caprice’s favorite subreddits include: r/awweducational r/JusticeServed r/AmITheAsshole https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/4078949e-8bf4-4171-9763-e71bde7c2df8/Screen+Shot+2023-01-03+at+3.50.01+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: January 4, 2023 - January 2023 POLAROID. Here Caprice is seen holding a cookbook she wrote when she was 18 or 19. The introduction is HILARIOUS. If and WHEN this gets published for the masses, believe me, the BLUGH will let you know. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/december282022 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/2c5a3562-e148-48d1-a125-47cfca03d807/download.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 28, 2022 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION There are many apps out there and I think most or all are excellent. I am recommending this one because it is what I have the most personal experience using. You’ve probably already heard of Headspace, an app known primarily for its guided meditations. If everyone would take a minute (even just one literal minute) to slow down and focus just on their breath on a daily basis, the daily drama would decrease significantly (I love drama but it’s over the top right now). The app is easy to use and low pressure. You just get right to meditating and don’t worry if you’re doing it “right”. ALSO, NO APP OR PURCHASE NECESSARY TO MEDITATE. JUST BREATHE. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/c02ca21f-14e4-454f-9571-3795e932da0b/41yVhPi4%2B6L._AC_SY780_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 28, 2022 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION The Self Help books that a person could list! There is an endless supply, I have so many on my bookshelf yet to consume. I have chosen The Artist’s Way because I think it is so important to CREATE and this is an excellent guide and tool for just that. It is both a book and a program that you complete and is challenging and eye-opening! Rumor has it that God himself was inspired to create Earth and its habitants as a result of completing The Artist’s Way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 28, 2022 - Make it stand out SELFHELPTOK All of these are self help-y in some capacity so if you’re looking for dogs, you will not find them this week (self help tip: get a dog or 5). Gratitude: Dolly Parton Edition There Are No Hard Things Helping others: keep giving CPR! You were doing all these things before you watched this Self Discipline (also watch all this guy’s videos stat) What NOT To Do https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1672250234463-ATJ8JG11YY861UP2629K/mad+child.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 28, 2022 - Sometime in 1992 anger. Me before I decided to embark on my journey of self discovery, improvement, and development. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/december212022 monthly 0.5 2023-02-09 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/47471227-95a9-4f82-963a-c8d26b09ba6e/IMG_7490.JPEG The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 21, 2022 - January 2022 Baby Yoda For unto us a child is born. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/december142022 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/ec5fbb32-c5b5-4baa-a52a-e576938880ba/Screen+Shot+2022-12-13+at+7.56.51+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 14, 2022 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT, NAY, SHOPPING RECOMMENDATION As stated above, we went to Hudson Yards and it was so BEAUTIFUL. Shopping in person can be fun! And more thoughtful! And less clicky! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/6901703d-6db2-40d5-b494-8bf4bc7fc310/HYNY_20221212T180446000-0500_S0z91XACTVO92DO1SND_aw_1670965218057.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 14, 2022 - Book Rec. BOOK, NAY, EXPERIENCE RECOMMENDATION I CANNOT SAY ENOUGH ABOUT IT. City Climb was epic and challenging and rewarding and AMAZING. It’s a recommend for anyone who lives in or visits NYC ever. So awesome and the guides were amazing and reassuring. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/5ea256cf-1963-4054-afd0-fbd3d7eb2d5b/Screen+Shot+2022-12-13+at+8.04.34+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 14, 2022 - Make it stand out TIKTOK, NAY, THE THEATER I can’t believe we got to go see the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall. Live theater is really special!! I am inspired and in awe. Plus live theaters often have bathroom lounges, a huge perk. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/75bff670-8709-4c58-8f26-82d202067d70/Untitled+design.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 14, 2022 - December 2022 A Reminder (Photo of Mommy shared with permission) People, including me, can cherry pick what they share online. This trip with Mommy was SO FUN, no denying it! Life has ups and life has downs. Pictured here is Mommy’s mouth down as she naps. A perfectly upside down U. God bless, and until next week. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/december072022 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/9957e481-aee0-4fb7-a0cb-51222ff5fa30/Screen+Shot+2022-12-06+at+8.49.20+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 7, 2022 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Bryton is not a big “product” person. She mostly just buys what she needs and avoids spending money on unnecessary things, so her life is boring and lacks meaning. That said, this hair dryer she purchased fixed her broken, brittle hair. Like for real, no special technique, just a kinder, more effective hair dryer that literally changed the texture of her hair and in turn, the texture of her heart. Shout out to friend of the BLUGH, Evan Harris, who brought this hair dryer into Bryton’s life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/bd55fa8f-01a1-4e87-81d7-e59106a287ba/9780140319293-us.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 7, 2022 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION Drama, Deception, Danger, a Double Spy. You can find all of this and more in one of Bryton’s favorite books, Mara, Daughter of the Nile. Written in 1953, this young adult treasure tells the story of Mara, a proud and beautiful slave girl in Egypt who yearns for freedom. There is no age limit to reading one of the best books ever written so order (or rent) immediately and enjoy. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/f7d7e0af-80b2-4600-bf8e-dbfd2a2016cd/youtube-logo-hd-8.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 7, 2022 - Make it stand out YOUTUBE?!?! I CAN’T BELIEVE I AM DOING THIS. I am foregoing TikToks this week to share instead some 2Chainz clips from his show, Most Expensivist on Vice TV. Bryton is more a YouTube consumer so I feel this is more appropriate. ALSO 2CHAINZ IS AMAZING AND HILARIOUS AND A GREAT DAD CHECK HIM OUT. LINE DANCING DOGS TEQUILA https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/86ee26de-8678-4d8c-85a9-f14b71716d22/Screen+Shot+2022-12-06+at+9.05.17+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: December 7, 2022 - September 2022 Bryton, In a Vineyard in Portugal I can’t even begin to tell you how many photos I have of Bryton that I wanted to share for her Birthday BLUGH. I landed on this though because this is a signature pose of hers and it’s a freaking awesome pic. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/november302022 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/2a3414ac-b500-458f-9dbc-a95c6201f097/Screen+Shot+2022-11-29+at+6.55.53+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 30, 2022 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION I was JUST talking to George Clooney about my BLUGH and he asked (begged) me to feature the Nespresso machine as my product recommendation. I was like, “George, no, it’s too big and expensive” and he was like, “mamma mia!! prego put it in there, amore!!!”. I rolled my eyes at his silliness (he can be so silly!!) and ultimately, caved. I LOVE my Nespresso and this machine is one of the better ones in my and George’s opinions. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/6b0e80c9-46a9-4b01-ba0f-709342c7f9bc/1pZDwEH4_400x400.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 30, 2022 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION So this recommendation is for a line of books! The Milk Street cookbooks have changed my life and have made me love cooking. I think all are great but I own and and can personally vouch for: Fast and Slow: for the Instant Pot user Tuesday Nights: my fav Cookish: easy! 6 ingredients or less Tuesday Nights Mediterranean: for Italy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 30, 2022 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS No particular Italian theme here. Just some great cani. SANTA PAWS ICE IS NICE PICTURE DAY https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/0a2ca84e-13d2-44dd-9268-f67e44a10c67/20140704_111600.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 30, 2022 - June 2014 Me, in Florence, modeling Bottled water sold out across Florence and all of Italy when this photo was taken. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/november232022 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1669583276466-WSJ8L3ZSS5PV9PMBU7IX/unsplash-image-u0F1bva4Qh0.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 23, 2022 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION NOTHING. I know you are being bombarded by Black Friday deals left and right and so I will spare you this week. That said, if you do see a deal for a sexy empty shopping cart like the one pictured, I say go for it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1669583313980-AODPYQSVF3XPBSEUBYPS/unsplash-image-fVUl6kzIvLg.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 23, 2022 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION Again, kind of sparing you this week! In lieu of a book recommendation, I recommend a) doing whatever you want with your Thanksgiving holiday and b) if you feel like it, write down what you are grateful for in digital or real ink. Immediate mood booster. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 23, 2022 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS I can’t imagine what circumstances would compel me to leave TikToks out of the BLUGH. You will NOT be spared those. HE’S BACK A GLIMPSE INTO MY FUTURE LAWYER KNOWLEDGE QUEEN. I DID THIS AND IT WORKED! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/85672d7a-40b2-40e5-98a3-a85e86cfb35b/IMG_604A72019A00-1.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 23, 2022 - November 2018 Me, a turkey This is me committing to Thanksgiving as no one has since 1621. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/november162022 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/aaf80525-a4e6-4c1e-b323-9abd6ada10c3/Screen+Shot+2022-11-22+at+8.58.33+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 16, 2022 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION In these dark times, it is important to shed light where we can. I use this RING LIGHT for Zoom calls because my typical complexion is spooky ghost girl. This also serves as a lamp, is lightweight, and not too expensive as far as desk accessories go. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/545566a1-1dfe-45ee-b7e2-847c0f8ae510/0452289963.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_SX500_.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 16, 2022 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION When I need comfort, I pick up this book and open to any page. I have read it fully through once and am in the process of rereading it now. I use it as a guide and reference source for when I need to get some perspective on life. A New Earth is super famous and well known, and I think for good reason. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 16, 2022 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS I enjoyed these and I actually think Epictetus would too. ROOFTOP DJ STOMP STOMP STOMP NATURE IS BEAUTIFUL SPEAKING OF BEAUTIFUL (I KNOW HER!!!) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/a6625b99-b2b3-4f3d-976e-d923264519a6/Screen+Shot+2022-11-14+at+11.09.36+AM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 16, 2022 - November 2022 Epictetus and Me. This picture is me and Epi right after I experience something difficult and show my true form as a Blobfish. He’s like, “that’s not what I meant!” and I’m like, “BLUGH!”. https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/november092022 monthly 0.5 2023-02-19 https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/november022022 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/20bfc5df-9fe6-49d5-9451-e09bb432f6fa/nail-envy-original-ntt80-treatments-strengtheners-22001013000_4.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 2, 2022 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION This STUFF is miraculous if you have damaged or just less than ideally healthy nails. It CURES your nails. Fun fact: Googling “before and after sick fingernails“ looking for a pic for your newsletter is is very dangerous. Don’t do it. Also important to note that dogs love it when their owners have healthy nails. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/35c25acb-8f4f-41c4-ae07-542090972a8a/9780345809322-us.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 2, 2022 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION The Remains of the Day is lovely and I found it comforting though it isn’t what I would call a happy book. My friend, Naomi, described this book best when she said it was an onion with layer after layer to peel back to reveal more. I’d say this is a very cozy (but EMOTIONAL!) book for the end of fall/beginning of winter. The book’s only fault is there are no dogs. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/91c87803-b612-4f70-a907-e393396e2a6c/tiktok-icon2.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 2, 2022 - Make it stand out TIKTOKS All TikToks this week are dog-centric. DOG ADOPTS PUMPKIN DOG HAS ATTITUDE SOPHIE HUMAN DISGUISE https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/4eab9392-7de5-411e-ba88-10925cca04bc/Screen+Shot+2022-11-01+at+9.03.32+PM.png The BLUGH - The BLUGH: November 2, 2022 - May 2017 Mister in the Shower. He used to love to nap in the shower to stay cool. Until he died and went to live in ✨Dog Heaven✨ https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/october262022 monthly 0.5 2024-01-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/9d18708c-ec60-4f6d-9212-18d6f8f711e5/626d90474f00ecc61922463ae400e909.jpeg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 26, 2022 - PRODUCT REC. PRODUCT RECOMMENDATION Who among us hasn’t blown out a candle and watched the smoke rise to form a vaporous candle smoke demon that haunts you for no less than three hours? Avert the demon entirely by using a WICK DIPPER. You use this dainty metal tool by dipping the wick into the hot wax and no smoke demon will appear! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1fee37bd-b935-4e6f-9fcb-42a7e2f29331/Screen+Shot+2022-10-23+at+11.31.43+AM.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 26, 2022 - Book Rec. BOOK RECOMMENDATION Pretty much anything can be negotiated and as I learned from reading this book, saying, “I deserve to get what I want for the barmaid of life hath poured me a bitter brew!” does not work*. An easy-to-apply manual on negotiation, Never Split the Difference is interesting not just because of the real life applications, but because Chris Voss has some WILD stories about high stakes negotiations he performed during his time as an FBI Hostage Negotiator. *I’ll never stop saying this https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/c3dff416-66a3-4cc5-8e57-85fe2815387c/unnamed.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 26, 2022 - Make it stand out TIKTOK(s!!!) Remember when way back last week I established that I would share no more than one TikTok per newsletter? I was younger and more foolish back then and now am wise and understand that more than one TikTok must be shared per week. Below please find your weekly BLUGH tokkies: DOG FUNNY EDUCATIONAL DUMB BUT I LOVE https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/57e97e3c-78e9-48ac-93da-c087732426aa/Screen+Shot+2022-10-23+at+2.13.24+PM.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 26, 2022 - September 2022 Murder Mystery Party! https://www.justinasparling.com/theblugh/october192022 monthly 0.5 2022-10-30 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/b891fb7d-9cee-4a09-ad2c-8b276987158a/DSC06708.jpg The BLUGH - The BLUGH: October 19, 2022 - February 2021 Me loling at the idea of starting a blog, Photo cred: Lisabmedia https://www.justinasparling.com/home daily 1.0 2026-03-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1634514128352-6VS1AD2K6R85JLAGCS9S/Justina+Sparling-137-Edit.jpg Home “Yeah, you can call me Justin! No problem!” “More salt, please.” “I’d like to go home now.” All the above attributed to Justina. anyway, Welcome! This is my website! I’m always messing with it so come back later for something new/different! https://www.justinasparling.com/about daily 0.75 2026-03-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1618440939333-C4F4T52CKREL10ARTOO9/Justina+Sparling-144-Edit.jpg About https://www.justinasparling.com/contact daily 0.75 2022-10-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1619379691350-V3ST9MQRESBYF9UNS156/Justina+Sparling-14.jpg Contact https://www.justinasparling.com/faqs daily 0.75 2025-09-13 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1621904747391-BSJYEHBFM3OIO8QV3J65/Justina+Sparling-19.jpg FAQs - Make it stand out FAQing in real time. https://www.justinasparling.com/she-does-things daily 0.75 2026-03-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/5d8e2376-7d75-43ef-aa68-0067cf6d9bf6/IMG_0154.JPG She Does Things https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1634395241277-JDNDPDUQ3GUVD5RC56K1/Justina+Sparling-114-Edit.jpg She Does Things https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/6069dcdb9d38ba04fb6c3aaf/1634394705488-PND21JNNSK8A913P9YFZ/DSC06745.jpg She Does Things