Well hello there, happy Saturday!

Today’s newsletter is a quick one because this week has been especially full with house issues, a choir concert I had forgotten to put on the calendar, union leadership meetings, parent teacher conferences at work, and professional development meetings. My physical exhaustion level has been off the charts this week, so I’m hoping for lots of rest this weekend.

Working on a new skill

Last fall, I decided that I need to learn embroidery so I can add embellishments to quilts and clothing that I sew. I decided to focus my learning with Sarah’s Hand Embroidery patterns and tutorials, which are just perfect. A mix of print and video is exactly how I learn best, and her videos are so calming and helpful!

This past Sunday I sat down and finally completed the January Stitch Book pattern ~ it was so much fun! I don’t see myself doing embroidery as art in and of itself (wall hangings, etc) but I love the added texture and richness that it will add to my other fiber creations!

Two perfect books

Okay, I know that “perfect” is a bold statement, but today’s recent reads are both so precious to me, and I want EVERYONE to read them!

I have officially declared After Hours at Dooryard Books by Cat Sebastian a new favorite romance. Fabulous setting (used bookstore in NYC in the late 1960s), mature characters, extremely compelling emotional backstories, richly written characters, whip smart and witty writing. Hopeful tone despite the time period. FABULOUS.

Here are a few of the parts I highlighted:

And then a nonfiction pick that I listened to and loved on audio ~ Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose by Jennifer Breheny Wallace. This is a book that can be appreciated on so many fronts: people looking to find a sense of purpose, those who are trying to help others find a sense of purpose, managers and administrators who want to create a culture of mattering and care. Chapter 7 is especially important for that last category.

I went into this book from a professional angle ~ how do we make every student feel like they matter? And how can I help my district leadership retain good people? I definitely got what I was looking for, and want to get my hands on a print copy so I can highlight and make notes!

That’s all for today, my friends ~ I have high hopes that the additional light in the coming week and rest this weekend will make me feel brand new in a few days. Here’s to resting when needed … the easiest but sometimes hardest-to-achieve cure.