GOOP

People either love her or the opposite. I'm most definitely among the former. She has proven herself as an actress, though chosen to undertake more minor roles since becoming a mom to two little muffins (kudos), has demonstrated her prowess as both a singer and dancer of late, can cook (hence the cookbook), and looks entirely smashing all the while.

Yes, even a regular gal like me has learned a ton from my good friend Gwyn over the years. Years ago I was one of the firstest followers of her online blog at www.goop.com I LOVE it! Not everything on it is for mere mortals (her clothing budget is NOT the same as mine, etc), but she does offer a variety of informative posts, including travel finds and thought provoking philosophical pieces from gurus in those fields, and I have honestly learned something from the vast majority of them. You can sign up to get the newsletters sent to your inbox every time there is a new one.

Now moving on to the cookbook, called My Father's Daughter. I love the reason she cooks, and I love the ethos of this cookbook, which is geared to all the moms out there who want simple delicious food for their beloved families. I get that, and I would recommend you get her book. Genuinely good stuff. 

Finally, the personal tidbit:

I was once 1 degree of separation away from Gwyneth. This past fall I was walking to yoga in my neighbourhood, and her hubby, none other than Chris Martin of Coldplay, walked past me on the sidewalk. I saw him, recognized him, he saw me and I chickened out of saying anything to him.

So hard to find pictures of them together (they try hard not to be photographed together in public).

I have been kicking myself ever since! Shoulda, woulda, coulda....
Next time - there better be a next time :)