This Isn’t a Political Post (But You’ll Probably Think It Is)

I have a confession—an embarrassing one at that. But I’m not going to lead with it. Because it just might be my Get Out of Jail free card the next time I go to the States. And after this post, I just might need it.

I’m not a political person. This is not a political post. Although I’m well aware that saying it’s not political is often the international signal for here comes something political. It’s like prefacing a conversation with, “No offense, but…”

I loathe talking politics. There’s nothing worse at a dinner party—except maybe karaoke.

Dinner Parties, Traffic Jams, and Unsolicited Opinions

Opinions get louder, veins pop, and suddenly you’re defending free trade over dry chicken to a man wearing his baseball cap backwards. It’s exhausting.

Welcome to the great international dating paradox. Who does it better?

As a single Canadian woman living in London, I’ve had my fair share of dates on both sides of the pond. And while I’d love to claim expert status—I mean I did kinda write an award-winning book, In Search of Mr Darcy: Lessons Learnt in the Pursuit of Happily Ever After—on the subject of men, I don’t know everything about this subject (phew). But you better believe I can talk about it.

I enlisted my girl gang—a highly qualified team of romantic research analysts to make this discussion even juicier. We’re focusing on city men and speaking in generalities, so if you’re easily offended, I suggest you swipe left.

If you’ve ever wondered how British and North American men compare when it comes to romance, charm, and commitment, buckle up. This is a head-to-head showdown of British Men vs. North American Men, complete with all their quirks, charms, and questionable texting habits.

The Mean Season: How Music Can Boost Your Happiness—ScIENTIFIcally

If you’re anything like me, this time of year can feel overwhelming. I’ve officially nicknamed it the Mean Season — that period from Thanksgiving to Valentine’s Day when life seems to pile on the pressure. Our credit card bills are due from overspending at Christmas, our clothes don’t fit from overeating and over-drinking, and the sun has not been seen since October. To make matters suckier, we are guilted into making (and then breaking) New Year’s resolutions before the ice even melts. Yup, this season has its challenges. And if you’re single, you get to cap it all off with a front-row seat to all the lovebirds, armed only with a box of chocolates and a stack of rom-coms. No wonder Bridget Jones ended up cry-singing "All By Myself" into a hairbrush.

It’s hard, plain and simple. But don’t worry, I’ve found a little something to help us all out. To make the lack of sunlight and the relentless bone chill of winter just a little bit nicer. And don’t thank me, thank science.