Group chats with my girlfriends are some of my most sacred spaces. From swapping book recommendations and dreaming up future vacations to talking career goals, skincare routines, and what we're wearing to _____ —it’s where we share it all, free of judgement. Since The Life Edit was born to help this community level up our travels, wardrobes, and daily routines together, consider this an extension of the group chat. And here's the April roundup of the things we've been buzzing about:
1️⃣ VIRAL TIK TOK SWEET POTATO PROTEIN BOWLS
This is the sweet potato protein bowl that’s been dominating TikTok feeds—and for good reason. After seeing it on my FYP literally 500 times, I finally caved... and OKKKKK. It lives up to the hype! It’s a quick, easy-to-make meal that’s absolutely loaded with protein, but what really sets it apart is the flavor. The mix of roasted sweet potatoes, savory seasonings, and surprising add-ins creates the kind of bite that keeps you coming back. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and endlessly customizable— viral for good reason.
THE RECIPE: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTje7YQWM/
2️⃣ FIRST TIME CALLER
I read 4 books in the month of April + an audiobook and there was a clear favorite - First Time Caller by B.K. Borison. A Sleepless in Seattle–esque story that brings together a jaded radio host and an unsuspecting single mom in a story brimming with charm and second chances. Aiden Valentine, once a true believer in love, now just goes through the motions on his popular Baltimore romance hotline—until a young caller asking for advice for her mom turns everything upside down. When the clip goes viral, Lucie Stone finds herself unexpectedly thrust into the spotlight—and into Aiden’s orbit. Tender, funny, and full of cozy, small-town magic, this is a love story for anyone who’s ever needed a little help finding their way back to hope.
ADD TO CART 🛒: https://amzn.to/3Ywmjl4
3️⃣ CROWN AFFAIR DRY SHAMPOO
I switch dry shampoos about as often as John changes the furnace filter—which is to say, constantly. I’ve convinced myself that my hair has some kind of expiration date when it comes to these products: they work perfectly for a while, helping me stretch the time between washes, and then suddenly decide they’re over it. So I’ve tried a lot of them. That’s why, when one actually sticks around month after month, it’s worth talking about. This brand is stellar across the board, but what really sets this dry shampoo apart is the clever brush applicator and its undeniably sexy scent. It’s officially earned a spot on my favorites list.
ADD TO CART 🛒 : https://go.shopmy.us/p-17320912
4️⃣ ILIA FACE MILK
Believe it or not, I'm way more low-maintenance with my beauty routine than you'd expect. As I inch closer to 40, I'm all about simplifying—so the idea of adding another step before makeup felt like a hard pass. That is, until I saw what Ilia's Base Milk did to my skin. I won’t call it magic... but somehow, it makes my skin look plump, dewy, and hydrated as hell—like I actually drink enough water and sleep 10+ hours. It's that good.
ADD TO CART 🛒: https://go.shopmy.us/p-17361012
5️⃣ SHOW REC: RANSOM CANYON
I don’t watch a ton of TV, but when I do, I binge the whole season—and Ransom Canyon on Netflix was worth every minute. Starring Josh Duhamel 🔥 and Minka Kelly, this series feels like the perfect blend of Virgin River and Yellowstone. Expect rekindled high school crushes, second chances at love, and a gripping battle to save a family ranch from outside threats.
6️⃣ AN EXPERIENCE WORTH SHARING: THE TASTING MENU AT CHICAGO’S GALIT
I hosted a friend from out of town last week—and by "hosted," I mean we fully embraced our inner ladies who lunch, gallivanting around Chicago and eating our way through the city. Naturally, I had to show off the best of the local culinary scene, which led us to Galit in Lincoln Park for a “choose your own adventure” tasting menu. Helmed by James Beard Award winner Chef Zachary Engel, Galit offers a fresh, inspired take on Mediterranean cuisine, rooted in Engel’s Jewish American heritage. Since opening in 2019, the restaurant has racked up an impressive list of accolades, including a Michelin star and the 2024 Jean Banchet Award for Restaurant of the Year.
The fluffiest pita, the silkiest hummus, and service that exceeded our expectations. Of all the Chicago restaurants that have made my list, this experience most definitely ranks near the top.
BONUS #7️⃣: WEEKEND WEAR
Last weekend, I found myself bright and early at a five-year-old’s flag football game—definitely not my usual Sunday scene. It didn’t take long to realize I had a glaring hole in my wardrobe: weekend wear. You know, those effortless, comfy outfits that still look put-together without looking like I just rolled out of bed (even though I did). Naturally, I went down a Pinterest rabbit hole and, lucky for me, I found some seriously cute athleisure inspiration.