Guest writer

Dear Readers,

As we enter into the new year, Love+Medicine would like to give you a special surprise - a guest appearance from Dr. Annie K’s daughter, Lia. While I am not as old and wise as the good doctor, I hope to bring some fun insights to this week’s newsletter.

I’d like to share some of my best purchases of 2022. I know what you might be thinking - another 20-something wannabe influencer writing a shallow blog post about what she spent her money on. In classic Love+Medicine fashion, I’m here to make a bold statement: materialism is not necessarily shallow, superficial or selfish. In fact, materialism can serve as a form of self care and compassion. Material items can bring us immense joy, comfort or ease. There is no shame in appreciating tangible possessions. Life is hard enough, and we don’t need to make it more difficult by criticizing ourselves for spending money on things that might make life a bit easier.

Overconsumption is detrimental to the environment and society, and it is dangerous to focus on items of monetary value rather than family, friends and health. Nonetheless, we should treat materialism like we do many other things in life - from alcohol and screen-time to confidence and sugar - many dangerous things can be beneficial if we do not overdo it. We can approach consumerism with a minimalist mindset - treat yourself by investing in a few high-quality items with intention rather than excessively consuming meaningless products.

So, I enter this year with two guiding principles: balance is key, and we need to stop giving each other and ourselves shit for treating ourselves. On that note, here is a short list of my favorite “investments” of the year.

Note: this is not an advertisement for any of these brands, but if Trader Joe’s wants to sponsor me, hit me up!

These Dr. Scholl’s gel heel liners have the ability to transform even the most uncomfortable shoes. They have been a lifesaver when it comes to breaking in my new Doc Martens, which have been another great purchase of 2022.

Since I'm kind of a wimp when it comes to spicy food (thank you Mom and Dad for those Ashkenazi genes), Trader Joe's Organic Spicy Honey Sauce has been my gateway drug into spicier hot sauces. I love using it in salad dressing, in sandwiches, and even on yogurt or oatmeal. When I run out, I mix a bit of honey with chili oil for a similar effect.

After wasting money on various skincare products in 2021, I experimented with a new method: less is more. All you need is a high quality facial cleanser and moisturizer, a retinol and an SPF product. Don’t let the beauty industry trick you into thinking you need a 15-step skin care routine to get rid of acne or reduce wrinkles. Minimalism applies to skin care, too.

Speaking of simple skin care, I couldn't go into 2023 without telling the world about my obsession with this tinted sunscreen. I have had a hard time finding sunscreen that doesn’t leave me with a ghostly white cast and burning eyes, but this is the one. The brand, Supergoop, was founded by Holly Thaggard after her best friend was diagnosed with skin cancer at age 29. 

I own leggings from a few luxurious brands like Alo Yoga and Lululemon and still nothing compares to these $23 leggings from Aerie. They are super flattering and breathable, and they’re perfect for just hanging out around the house or any type of workout.

There you have it: a brief list of my 2022 favorites. What are some of your best purchases of 2022? Let us know.

Happy New Year everyone - and don’t forget to treat yourself.

Love, Lia