Back from Louisiana and back for another mid-week round-up. What has everyone been up to? While our trip to Lafayette was book-ended with sadness (we found out Chet’s grandfather passed away while we were en route and attended his funeral on Monday); visiting with family, eating amazing Cajun food, and sitting in the sun for a couple afternoons at a music festival were just what we needed. Now we’re strapping in for a quick week with plenty to do. But before productivity takes over, here are a dozen links to enjoy…

Add this Apple Cider Sangria to your autumnal drink rotation.

A DIY centerpiece for maximum Halloween ambiance.

The racist and sexist history of keeping birth control side effects secret.

Breaking down an effective Sunday meal prep.

A fast-food journey from Hamburger University to celebrity-filled Hollywood parties.

Remembering when Melrose Place became a conceptual art project.

This book looks fascinating.

Arguing is easy; persuasion is hard.

How to walk around the world without leaving New York.

Actually, many inner cities are doing great.

A fascinating experiment in gender mainstreaming.

The opposite of a muse.