Continuing through the 1953 archives of Chatelaine, this chapter dives into two very different stories—The Story of Two Fat Men and From Merrie England to Massy by Judith Robinson. What starts as a simple reading quickly turns into something deeper, touching on health, identity, culture, and the way people thought and wrote back then. It’s fascinating to see how some things—like conversations around weight and lifestyle—haven’t changed much at all, while others feel completely of another time. Along the way, there’s also a look at the language, the personality in the writing, and even a vintage ad that adds a little humour to it all. It’s reflective, a little raw, and very much a continuation of the journey into the past—seen through a modern lens.

In this first episode of Chatelaine: The 1953 Archives, I open the March 1953 issue of Chatelaine and begin at the very beginning — including a section where readers take over and share their opinions, reactions, and perspectives. These letters give a fascinating glimpse into what people were thinking, discussing, and debating at the time. Some thoughts feel surprisingly familiar, while others clearly reflect a different era, making this a unique window into everyday life and conversation in 1953.

I didn’t post a farewell story. I didn’t announce a break. I just deleted Instagram. In this episode, I share why I made the clean cut, what it’s like stepping away from a platform that drains more than it gives, and how simplifying my digital life has helped me reclaim energy, focus, and real connection.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by scrolling, fake connections, or the constant highlight reels, this one’s for you. A quiet exit might just be the freedom you didn’t know you needed.