Sunday Edition | May 4, 2025
- Olga Nesterova
- May 4
- 6 min read
Because life is more than politics — and kindness still matters.
Welcome to the Sunday Edition!
Every week, I’ll bring you stories that inspire — from arts and culture to health, nature, and the little joys that make life worth savoring. Because real life is more than politics — and there’s still beauty all around us.
Thanks for being here. Let’s dive in.
🎭 CULTURE SNAPSHOT
• George Clooney, Mia Farrow, Sadie Sink & Sarah Snook all nab Tony nominations in one of Broadway’s most star-studded seasons.
• Labubu dolls — tiny, fuzzy, elf-like creatures with mischievous grins — are the latest collector craze. Rihanna and Dua Lipa are fans.
• Pedro Almodóvar received the Chaplin Award, Film at Lincoln Center’s highest honor.
• The National Museum of Women celebrates 40 years of Guerrilla Girls — the feminist art collective behind the iconic “Do Women Have to Be Naked…” poster.
• Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour launched in L.A. this week — complete with performances by her daughters, Blue Ivy and Rumi.
Hint: Seven year old Rumi absolutely stole the show :)
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🥂 MOCKTAIL OF THE WEEK: CLASSIC MOJITO
We’re kicking off a new series: The Mocktail of the Season Showdown.
Each Sunday, we’ll feature one delicious contender — and let you vote for the ultimate winner at summer’s end.
🍃 Classic Mojito Mocktail
These refreshing minty mojito mocktails are perfect for just about any occasion—whether it’s a brunch, baby shower, luncheon, or pool party—anytime a crisp, cooling drink is in order. For best results, add the ice and sparkling water right before serving to keep the flavor bold and undiluted. Bonus: the recipe can be easily doubled to serve a larger group.
Ingredients
¾ cup fresh lime juice (from 6 limes)
¾ cup simple syrup (see Tip)
½ cup packed fresh mint leaves
2 (2-inch) strips lime zest
4 cups ice cubes
2 cups sparkling water
Lime slices and mint sprigs, for garnish
Directions
Combine lime juice, simple syrup, mint leaves and lime zest in a pitcher; using the handle of a long wooden spoon, lightly crush the mint and zest. Add ice cubes and sparkling water; stir to mix well. Divide among 4 glasses; garnish with lime slices and mint sprigs, if desired.
Equipment
Pitcher, long wooden spoon
Tip
To make your own simple syrup, bring 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water to a boil in a medium saucepan, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar. Let cool for 30 minutes and then refrigerate until cold, at least 1 hour. Simple syrup can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 6 months.
Originally appeared: EatingWell.com, 4/2019
🧊 DID YOU KNOW?
How Ice Became a Daily Necessity: A 4,000-Year Journey
Few things are more satisfying than an ice-cold drink on a hot day — but the path to making chilled beverages an everyday staple is a fascinating story of ancient innovation, imperial luxury, and modern industry.
From Mesopotamian kings and Chinese dynasties building royal icehouses to Persian yakchals that stored ice in the desert, civilizations have long valued the cooling power of ice. In Rome, emperors imported blocks from the Alps; in Heian-era Japan, aristocrats savored shaved ice sweetened with syrups.
The real game-changer came in the 1800s, when Boston entrepreneur Frederic Tudor launched the global ice trade, shipping New England pond ice to the Caribbean. As refrigeration advanced, ice became affordable, accessible, and eventually — a fixture in American homes and drinks.
What was once a rare luxury of emperors and elites is now a $5 billion global industry — and an everyday pleasure we rarely stop to appreciate.
💙 HEALTH & LONGEVITY
🌍 Secrets of the World’s Longest-Living People: Inside the Blue Zones
Around the globe, the average life expectancy hovers around 71.4 years—but in a few exceptional places, people routinely live far longer. These regions, known as Blue Zones, are home to some of the oldest and healthiest individuals on the planet. First identified by researchers who circled them in blue on a map, these five longevity hotspots offer not just longer life, but a better one. Here’s a look at what sets them apart.
Sardinia, Italy
In this mountainous region, the world’s highest concentration of male centenarians thrive on a largely plant-based diet, daily physical activity, and strong family bonds. Local sheep herders walk five or more miles each day, and men with daughters tend to live longer—perhaps thanks to attentive care in old age. A genetic variant, the M26 marker, may also contribute to their extreme longevity.
Okinawa, Japan
Community is everything in Okinawa, where the concept of moai—a lifelong social group—provides vital emotional and practical support. This culture of connection reduces stress and reinforces healthy habits. The result? Okinawan women hold the record for the longest life expectancy in the world, with many living well past 100.
Nicoya, Costa Rica
This rural region in Costa Rica is marked by a nutrient-rich, plant-based diet rooted in beans, squash, corn, and tropical fruits. Combined with regular outdoor activity and a plan de vida—a clear sense of purpose—Nicoyans enjoy physical vitality and spiritual resilience well into their 90s.
Loma Linda, California, U.S.A.
America’s only Blue Zone is anchored by the Seventh-day Adventist community. Shared faith, weekly Sabbath rest, and a mostly vegetarian diet rich in whole grains, nuts, and plants help residents live about 10 years longer than the national average. A strong sense of community and spiritual purpose also play key roles.
Ikaria, Greece
On this Aegean island, daily naps, Mediterranean meals, and a close-knit, prideful community culture allow 1 in 3 residents to reach their 90s. Dementia and chronic illness are rare, thanks to healthy diets, meaningful social connections, and a relaxed lifestyle that includes plenty of walking, laughter, and late-night conversation.
Whether it’s through diet, movement, connection, or purpose, the Blue Zones offer real-life roadmaps to a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
🔊 The Science of Sound: Why Certain Noises Make Us Smile
Have you ever heard a sound that instantly lifts your spirits or brings back a comforting memory? From the gentle crackle of a log fire to the rhythmic patter of rain, certain sounds have a uniquely powerful effect on our emotions—and science is beginning to explain why.
Nature’s Soundtrack
Among the most universally loved sounds are the natural ones: waves crashing on rocks, birds singing, wind rustling through trees, or leaves crunching underfoot. Psychologists suggest that these sounds tap into deep-seated associations with peace and safety. Water sounds, for instance—whether from a babbling brook, a rainfall, or the ocean—are thought to echo “primal rhythms” that regulate breathing, calm the mind, and evoke nostalgic memories of tranquil moments in nature.
The Hypnotic Fire
The crackling of a fireplace is another favorite, and researchers believe this stems from humanity’s ancient connection to fire. As one of our earliest tools, fire brought warmth, protection, and companionship. Its crackling sound continues to have a near-hypnotic effect, drawing us into a relaxed, meditative state.
Sounds That Energize
Not all beloved sounds are soothing. Crunching through autumn leaves or walking on snow creates a satisfying staccato rhythm that invigorates the brain. These repetitive, crisp noises stimulate rather than sedate, giving us a mental pick-me-up.
Joy in Laughter
Few things are more infectious than the sound of a giggling baby or a cat’s purr. These spontaneous, joyful sounds are often among the most comforting and uplifting because they embody pure, unfiltered happiness. Psychologists note that they also provide reassurance—an audible cue that all is well in the world.
The Odd Allure of White Noise
Interestingly, many people find comfort in white noise—think of the steady hum of a fan or the gentle static of radio fuzz. This background buzz helps mask distractions, promoting sleep and improving focus. It’s even used in tinnitus therapy to soothe ringing ears.
Ultimately, the sounds we love most do more than just please our ears—they connect us to memories, regulate our emotions, and shape our sense of well-being. Whether it’s the soft splash of water or the crackle of a campfire, sometimes the most powerful medicine is something we can simply listen to.
🌸 MOMENT OF ZEN
Spring Blooms at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Step into 52 acres of peak bloom — from cherry blossoms to Japanese hill gardens.
A living classroom. A pollinator’s paradise. A breath of fresh air.
Hint: Yellow Magnolia Café is a local favorite — and worth the visit.
❤️ KINDNESS
🎥 A woman sings a Juanes song in her car — only to realize he’s in the car next to her.
Joy. Surprise. Connection. You’ll smile.
🎨 ART & INNOVATION
🎥 AI x Art: A stunning AI-generated tour through the MET’s most iconic masterpieces.
Blending history, tech, and timeless beauty.
📺 WHAT’S STREAMING
Netflix | Air Force Elite: Thunderbirds
A behind-the-scenes look at America’s premier F-16 demo squad. Premieres May 23.
📣 COMING UP ON ONEST
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• New York Times Well Festival
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…and more!
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Happy Sunday —And remember, life is more than politics.
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