🫘 What's wrong with my teeth?

Plus: VISAs being revoked; Ronald McDonald disappeared

Good morning, Cool Beans!

Self-acceptance can sneak up on us in the most unexpected ways — sometimes, even in the dentist’s chair. Moving to a new country, we often find ourselves navigating unfamiliar habits and social standards, from the way we dress to the way we smile. Along the way, we learn that the gap between “normal” and “perfect” is usually filled with a whole lot of personal growth and we love that!

“We are all wonderful, beautiful wrecks. That's what connects us--that we're all broken, all beautifully imperfect.” - Emilio Estevez

The Culture Shock Of Flossing

We recently stumbled across an article about the French and flossing (yes, flossing), and it got us thinking—hard—about our own experience as European expats in the US. Apparently, in France, flossing was such an unknown concept that people would literally be baffled if they saw someone sliding string between their teeth. And it definitely rang a bell. For us too, dental care was never quite that obsessive. We did take care of our teeth—don’t get us wrong—but a once-a-year cleaning was usually the norm. None of this two or three times a year business, and definitely not the intense flossing interrogations we’ve come to know (and fear) here.

As a community of expats in Chicago, we’ve all had that first American dental visit where the hygienist asks, “How often do you floss?” and we try not to burst out laughing. Because back home, dental care tends to be more reactive—go when it hurts, not every six months with military precision. And with social security covering most of it, there wasn’t the same urgency. In the US though, where dental bills can hit like a second rent, the culture leans hard into prevention. And honestly, we get it. Flossing is important. We’ve seen the light (and the plaque). But it’s also a little funny how something so tiny carries so much cultural weight.

All of this reminded us of the recent reaction to White Lotus star Aimee Lou Wood, who showed up on screen with—gasp—normal teeth. No veneers, no ultra-white smile, just a refreshingly real grin. People were weirdly shocked… and kind of moved (we actually found it sad that there was even a reaction). Because in a place where everything from teeth to life is expected to look “perfect,” seeing someone embrace their quirks was oddly radical. It reminded us that while prevention is great (yes, we floss now—most days), perfection isn’t the point. Sometimes, it’s those little imperfections that make us feel seen, human, and actually kind of fabulous.

• ❌ Student visas revoked, Trump shakes up dozens of colleges — what now?

• 🐵 Bonobos are apparently more like us than we thought, combining vocalizations in ways once believed to be uniquely human.

• 🖼️ A picture may be worth a thousand words — but one of these paintings is worth more like $100 million.

• 🤬 What Gen Z hates about Millennials.

• 💇‍♀️ The big dilemma: how often should you wash your hair?

• 🌅 The 10 most underrated UNESCO World Heritage sites in Europe.

• 🎤 Yoko Ono's new biography includes some new revelations about her life with John Lennon.

• ☯️ Lao Tzu only wrote a single sentence about Yin and Yang, but sparked a philosophical revolution.

• 🤡 Where did Ronald McDonald go?

• 🎥 An investigative journalist finally cracked the mystery of that creepy photo at the end of The Shining — and yes, it's just as weird as you hoped.

• 🤤 If you are craving something new: Last weekend we tried Good Funk, a laid-back neighborhood wine bar in West Town (they also have a location in the loop), pouring natural wines that lean bright, fresh, and just the right amount of funky. The list is always changing, the vibe is unpretentious, and the space is easy to settle into — whether you’re stopping by for a glass or hanging out for the night. They serve simple, solid bites like jamón serrano and pan con tomate, and there’s always a good record spinning to set the tone.

• 🕺🏻 If your feet can’t stop (won’t stop) moving like Michael Jackson: This Friday, April 18th, Humboldt Arboreal Society is throwing a party at Reed’s Local from 9pm to 2am. No cover, just good tunes, good vibes, and a guaranteed good time.

• 🎤 If live music is your vibe: This Friday, April 18th, Elderbrook is hitting The Salt Shed for an epic night of smooth vocals and deep house beats. Expect a mix of laid-back vibes and high-energy moments, all set against the industrial backdrop of the venue. With his signature live-looping and electric stage presence, it’s shaping up to be a night you won’t forget. Click here to grab your ticket!

• 🛋️ If the couch is calling your name: This week, we started The Life List, a romantic drama starring Sofia Carson as Alex Rose. After her mother's death, Alex is given the challenge of completing a bucket list her mother created when she was a teenager. The twist? She has one year to finish it in order to inherit her mother's estate. As Alex tackles each item on the list, she uncovers family secrets, reconnects with old friends, and even finds unexpected romance. The show beautifully combines humor, emotional depth, and personal growth, making it a feel-good journey with a touch of drama. It's the perfect choice for anyone who loves a mix of self-discovery and heartfelt moments.

• 🤔 Still not feeling it? Check these others out:

  • Zhou Brothers and Bridgeport Art Center Open House this Friday from 7pm to 10pm

• Our April Calendar is out!! Check it out here.

• Last Sunday we co-hosted a Collage event with Lauren dedicated to Earth Day at Solemn Oath brewery. We created visual boards and coasters and we had a ton of fun!! To be done again soon for sure!

• On April 17th we are hosting an Happy Hour at Lizzano. Grab your tickets here!

• On April 26th we are hosting a strength class at SALT Fitness with some drinks and coffee after and network with other expats! Sign up here.

Laia Alen is a Barcelona-based fashion brand founded by Laia Alentorn in 2018. Known for its signature "bolsitos" — elegant pouches that combine opulence with everyday wearability — the brand quickly gained popularity among fashion influencers. Expanding into a full collection of women's clothing, including dresses and knitwear, Laia Alen is celebrated for its rich color palettes and timeless designs, all rooted in Spanish textile traditions. Check their website to see all their products!

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