In a week that brought the notorious Blue Monday, it pays to squint hard for any glimmer of cheer. From Hollywood wellness to humble spuds, here's a digested look at the fleeting bright spots and bewildering trends that defined the days.
Monday's Micro-Joys
Blue Monday, the alleged most depressing day of the year, arrived with its usual fanfare of collective gloom. Yet, amidst the forecast of bad haircuts and disappointing online purchases, a few sparks of optimism flickered. Scientists suggested microplastics might not be poisoning our organs as thoroughly as feared, offering a sliver of relief.
More notably, Gwyneth Paltrow revealed her love for a 6pm dinner and an early bedtime, endearingly termed "beddy-byes." This mundane revelation somehow bridges the gap between Hollywood royalty and the average person, perhaps hinting that a multi-million dollar wellness empire isn't so far removed from simple routines.
Further good news arrived with the announcement that HBO Max will launch in the UK in March, bringing shows like The Pitt starring Noah Wyle. It's a small but sure boost to the entertainment landscape.
Tuesday's Toilet Trauma
However, the week took a bizarre turn with reports that some hotels are saving money by abolishing toilet doors. This new trend sees establishments forgoing basic privacy features, with some opting for frosted glass enclosures or integrating sinks and showers into bedrooms instead.
It harkens back to less luxurious times, prompting one to wonder if we'll soon be trotting outside with newspaper in hand. As a certain wartime leader might have said, there are some indignities up with which we must not put.
Wednesday's Grammatical Grooves
Midweek brought a pop culture conundrum as Harry Styles released a new album titled Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally. The comma placement sparked debate among prescriptive grammarians. Is it a playful disregard for rules or a visual quirk for the album cover?
To the average fan, likely unfazed by punctuation, it's simply another release from the singer with slightly overcomplicated hair. Yet, it serves as a reminder of how small details can stir disproportionate discourse.
Thursday's Tuber Triumph
In unequivocally good news, the baked potato is making a hearty comeback. Supermarket sales of giant potatoes are up, numerous "spud"-themed businesses opened last year, and even Subway is joining the trend.
Street food vendors and online influencers are championing this humble dish, evoking nostalgic memories of stories like Milly Molly Mandy and the Baked Potato, where simple meals by the fire represented comfort and joy. It's a culinary return that warms the soul.
Friday's Familial Fare
The week closed with familial reflections, as a mother's query about a third anniversary prompted sibling banter and eventual agreement on a classic chippy tea with alcohol. Sometimes, the old ways truly are the best, offering solace in tradition and shared silence.
Overall, this weekly digest highlights that joy can be found in the mundane, from celebrity routines to grammatical quirks, even as we navigate odd hotel trends and personal milestones.
