We kicked off this week with a gorgeous snowfall. The forecast called for rain but we got lucky with snow. I’m sure I’ll be sick of the snow once April rolls around (those late spring snow days are the worst), but there is something quite magical about the first of the season. And it was as beautiful as could be– huge, fluffy flakes. Mike and I had the best “adult” snow day we kept saying. The two of us were pretty glued to our laptops, but we set up shop in front of the fire.
“Cyber Week” is officially over too so I feel pretty relieved and ready to finish out the year on a high note. The online shopping game has definitely changed over the past couple of years, but this was my best season yet for the blog. In case you’re wondering what the top sold product was… the Yeti 20 ounce tumbler!!! I had a feeling it would be because they never go on sale, but it is kind of funny because it’s the gift that I’m getting literally everyone on my list! It’s definitely going to be a popular item under Christmas trees this year. This tartan skirt was the next best-seller and they just restocked sizes for the black watch!!
Okay, here’s what was on my radar this week:
ONE // Free Embroidery Patterns
Clearly I’m having more than a minor moment with all things needlework. It’s been SUCH a fun hobby to pick up this year and I simply can’t get enough. DMC (the best embroidery floss!!) has a whole section on their website with free patterns for embroidery. I love it. I especially love this one for the holidays!!
TWO // $35,000 Champagne Vending Machine
Thirty. Five. Thousand. For a champagne vending machine!!! Seems pretty reasonable right 😂I think it’s such a fun idea. As much fun as it would be to have this in our house (LOL), I can totally see this in a chic boutique hotel or something fun like that.
THREE // Farris Benko on The Today Show
My friend Gray and her daughter Farris were on The Today Show last week!! They’ve been doing a fun project called “Farris Does Faces” and it’s so inspiring. I was thrilled to see that she was asked to be on The Today Show– too cool!!! (Farris is actually the coolest kid.)
FOUR // Paravel Carry-On
I am not in need of a new suitcase, but if you are, check out Paravel’s new carry-on. It’s GORGEOUS and chic as can be. I love all the color combos. The green though is prob my favorite.
FIVE // Pastry Chef Attempts to Make Gourmet Warheads
Was anyone else obsessed with Warheads as kids? I loved and hated them at the same time. I remember one time my sister and I had so many that my tongue was basically burned from all the citric acid. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. My girl-crush Claire Saffitz recreated a gourmet version and it’s one of the most interesting ones she’s done yet! I loved watching everyone’s reactions to eating her gourmet version at the end!
See — Mark & Graham, Terminal 1 suitcase — like the one you recommend — only classier! I thought you were going to say you were getting as Porsche as a Christmas present! Maybe?
THANK you for bringing the embrodiery prints to my attention! I just started and I LOVE it!!!!
I love that carry on suitcase!
https://alexagmarsh.blogspot.com
I love your on my radar posts. They are so fun and inspiring! Thank you so much for sharing. Enjoy getting into holiday mode this weekend.
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
I don’t know why, but knowing which products sell best via your channels is such a kick! Loved when you discussed this on that one podcast as well. Haha.
Carly, I have picked up needlepoint again after decades of not doing it. I love it. And I’m itching to do some embroidery too! I’m anxiously awaiting the arrival of a new book that helps you design and stitch your own house. You’ve got to get it!!!
https://themonsterslounge.myshopify.com/products/hand-stitched-house-softcover
Thanks for sharing! I don’t need a new suitcase either, BUT now that you mention it, I really do love Paravel’s new carry-on! Might have to get myself a Christmas present.
HA! I actually added the paravel carry on on my Christmas list!
chevrons & éclairs
I knew DMC had free patterns but I hadn’t checked in a while and they have so many new ones! This was a great reminder, thank you! I get a week and a half off of work for the holidays this month and its the perfect time to relax and do some crafts
Ah! Champagne vending machine! I live in Baltimore, and the Sagamore Pendry Hotel in Downtown Fells Point has one in their little outdoor garden area. It’s SO fun!
The Ritz in New Orleans has one and I agree, so fun! I always get a kick out of it.
LOL A hotel I went to this year in Vail had a champagne vending machine in the lobby. So neat!
So glad that you posted the link to the free patterns on DMC. They also have free counted cross stitch patterns (my needlework of choice).
My grandma was tricked by a neighbor kid with a warhead when I was young… however bc she’s a badass she didn’t make any face/no reaction, and was like “this is delicious it’s so sweet” while neighbor kid’s mind was blown.
She didn’t know they were sour and obviously tasted how strong they were but little trickster didn’t get the reaction they wanted. Hahahah.
I also would eat one with friends and we would try to keep a straight face and basically cry.
There’s a champagne vending machine at the Ritz Carlton in Philly! 🙂 I keep hoping to see someone use it, but no luck yet!