There She Goes: Fall Has Arrived
Hello & Happy Wednesday!
Everyone have their spiced apple cider or PSL* at the ready? Fall has officially arrived. I’m not sure how many of you might be excited about this and how many are wishing for summer to continue forever, but I’m certainly on the side of welcoming cooler weather! I’m looking forward to days that are less than 80 degrees, for pulling sweaters out of the closet, and for delicious evenings with spicy curry and hot tea (or red wine).
As for Brooke in the PNW, it’s cloudy, rainy and cool so all the cozy sweaters are already settled in.
I hope you all enjoyed National Voter Registration Day! If you missed the boat and are just now realizing you forgot to get registered, stop what you’re doing and take action now to change that! Your voice matters 💕 This is a good resource to check out deadlines in your state.
*Pumpkin Spice Latte 😉
What’s New
Our Common Thread
Have you checked out the full gallery for Our Common Thread? See it here! This was the 3rd designer challenge and included 18 designers from the United States, Canada & Europe.
Brooke’s design (pictured) was inspired by Mary, Queen of Scots, a famous needlepointer whose projects can still be enjoyed 450 years later. Talk about sustainability! This as well as other wildflower patterns will be available this winter.
We honor RBG
“It was Friday afternoon when my phone started pinging like mad. I was finishing up painting a canvas when the noise was so intense, I knew something had happened. More often than not, I keep my phones in another part of the apartment while I work to stay focused. Even if it was to turn them on silent, I padded across the room to investigate.
My heart sank so deeply, I didn't know if I could at that moment pick it back up. In a group chat with my girlfriends, "RBG... 2020 officially sucks." WHAT! Suddenly, other texts from loved ones who knew I admired her greatly confirmed the news. I dropped to my knees and couldn't help but let out a sob that I had been holding in for ages. I grieved not only for her loss, but in gratitude for all that she has given me, given you, given everyone with her grit, resilience and dissent. I also felt pure fear for so many Americans who would be affected if a replacement had been elected during this administration. Their goals are crystal clear.
Justice Ginsburg’s legacy is unparalleled in the pathways she left behind that allow us all to move forward. Her loss will be felt for generations to come as her impact was so incredibly profound. While we are utterly heartbroken by her loss, we understand the gravity her void will play in the months and years ahead. May we honor her legacy, her dedication to justice and mindfulness of how she used her position to empower others. Let’s fight the good fight for what is right and show that “We The People” have a voice. You have a voice and I encourage you to raise the volume.”
-Brooke
Collab with Unwind Studio
Check out the Thorn Alexander collaboration with Unwind Studio called Glacial Pools. Inspired by hiking in Glacier National Park & Mt. Kilimanjaro. 10% of profits from this product go to intersectional environmentalism! Curious about intersectionality? When we use the term intersectionality, it’s important to note that the term was coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw. Check out a TED talk she did here.
Also… have you downloaded A Beginner Guide to Needlepointing yet? Make sure you grab yours and tell your friends, cause this guide is free!
Songs To Stitch To, Sing To, Get You Through The Week
Set Aside Some Time This Week For Some Self-Care
I. I did an exercise recently where I had to imagine an archetype that embodied what I’d like to feel. Try it for yourself - perhaps you imagine a superhero of light & love, a fairy that gives you strength, or a visionary that helps you see things a new way. Vividly imagine how the archetype may look, sound, feel to be around, etc. and just see what happens!
II. Chose one statement you’ve been saying to yourself lately that is totally not serving you. Examples like “I can’t…,” or “I’ll never…,” and make the intentional decision to keep that thought at bay for the next week. If it helps, you can switch it out for another, more positive statement.
III. Take a deep breath. No really — do it now! INHALE…EXHALE
Soulful Salutations
I. “Reading shaped my dreams, and more reading helped me make my dreams come true.” — Ruth Bader Ginsburg
II. “It's the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting.” — Paulo Coelho
III. “Uncertainty will not hinder me from making bold, courageous choices.” — Morgan Harper Nichols
Uplifting Things Happening Around The World
I. Have you heard about the senior dog sanctuary? It’s a heart-warmer. See it here!
II. Check out the farmer in Wisconsin who plans to plant 2 million sunflowers to make people smile!
III. Sister Stephanie Baliga, a nun from Chicago, ran a treadmill marathon to raise money for her mission’s community outreach.
Brooke’s Bookshelf
New! — To feed your curious, well-read soul. By Brooke, Founder of Thorn Alexander.
Photo by Brooke.
I. I have been really loving getting back in the cooking groove during quarantine. Living in Chinatown is such a privilege and Kristina of Eat Cho Food is so inspiring. Her Asian influenced recipes look deeeeeelicious!
II. This Groupchat Realness Episode, Growing in Resilience, by Sophie Gold and Venita Aspen is much needed in the wake of the passing of RBG and John Lewis. They are such a joy to listen to and learn from and I sincerely look forward to their weekly episodes.
III. This How I Built This Podcast with Vicky Tsai of Tatcha is beyond inspiring. I also simply love hearing founder stories of brands that I love to use or aspire to use.