On a Super Side Note…
What I’m reading, wearing, eating, watching and (of course) stitching as of late.
“I absolutely love your passion for needlepoint, Emily, but there’s more to you than just needlepoint and I really encourage you to share that with others.”
During a recent conversation with one of my most valued and supportive mentors, she shared the above piece of insight with me. And it made me really think. It made me think about the things that inspire me and the things that make me want to think and act just inches outside of my comfort zone. So here I am doing just that.
“Super Side Note” is something my sister and I always say to one another, as we are both notoriously guilty for bringing up something in conversation that is completely unrelated to whatever it is we are talking about.
I hope this offers a soft landing place for you to let your thoughts wander and maybe find a thing or two that inspire you in a thought-filled and purposeful way as you embark on the week ahead.
Needlepoint will (of course) continue to be the sole focus of this publication, but think of this little slice of “The Finishing School Blog” as finishing touches for your day-to-day life. ❤️
Have I Been Living Under a Rock?? Dogwood Hill Printables
A long-time fan of Dogwood Hill, I recently discovered the activity printables section on their website. These printable binder sheets stopped me in my scroll and would be perfect for back to school, home/office organization, etc. I keep most of my needlepoint canvases yet to be stitched in a binder with acid-free, archival page protectors and am printing these out ASAP to use for just that (with a “needlepoint” label of course).
*We chatted a lot this week on this Instagram post about how best to organize needlepoint threads. The feedback was amazing - check out my highlight reel “Organization” and be on the lookout for a blog post coming soon.”
What I’m Reading: “The Rumor”
A self-proclaimed beach read junkie, I love Elin Hilderbrand’s novels and have really been enjoying “The Rumor”. Recommended by Elin herself (see here), to read before the much anticipated “Swan Song” as a way to offer a more “layered” reading experience. Set on Nantucket (naturally) it closely follows the interwoven lives of two families over the course of the summer and how the truthful secrets we keep are sometimes far worse than the rumors themselves…..
I listen to almost all my audiobooks through Libby, which is a free app linked through your local library. Highly recommend!
Can’t Stop Won’t Stop: 7 Layer “Magic” Bars
Speaking of layered….I recently revisited a childhood favorite and have been making these 7 Layer “Magic” Bars (recipe linked here) on repeat as of late for #allthethings. Incredibly easy to make, modify and keep chilling in the fridge or freezer ahead of time (hello timesaver). Bonus points: these are a total crowd pleaser and will curb any sweet tooth. Let me know if you try them!
P.S. You can print the recipe from the link above or save it to your phone.
What I’m Wearing Repeat Offending: JCrew Factory Midi Dress
As of late I’ve been steady rocking a groutfit (n.; a grungy outfit). Between the summer weather, running around after our toddlers at home, the pool and everywhere in between, it’s just been the way of it.
However, I found and have been repeat offending this dress from JCrew Factory. Great price point (60% off now with code “BIG60”), fab fit (even with a growing bump) and and lots of ways to dress up or down. Done and done!
Binge-Worthy: “Your Honor” on Netflix
“A respected judge's life descends into a thorny web of lies and cover-ups after his son flees a fatal car accident.”
My husband and I recently discovered “Your Honor” featuring one of our favorites, Bryan Cranston. We loved Bryan in Breaking Bad and he is spectacular in this - we were HOOKED after one episode.
What I’m Stitching: The Plum Stitchery & GN x MJD
I am proudly part of the Stitch Philly Annual Ornament Exchange for the second year in a row and am so excited to start on this sweet Plum Stitchery “Woodland Hare” canvas for my secret exchange partner. This year’s theme is “Winter” and I always adore a seasonal bunny. Who knows, I may even get crazy and try my hand at ribbon work…..
I have loved stitching this GN x MJD 13 mesh hot dog canvas as part of Greystone’s annual stitch along. Tracing and stitching the outline freehand was more difficult than I thought it would be but I am excited to have this turned into an ornament and will be taking you along with me as the finishing commences!
Final Thoughts: Memo to Moi
As we forge ahead this week, something for us to all keep in mind. Remembering always that YOU are your own secret sauce.
Have a fabulous week,
Emily 🎀
❤️ Thank you for being here and for supporting my publication. I would love to hear what you want to see in “The Super Side Note” - let me know here or send me a message on Instagram.
You are wonderful🤗
Loveeeeee this!!