The Saturday List - January Version

The January blues are here - cold weather, a raging pandemic, not enough vaccines, many people out of work and suffering.  But we have a new administration so there's hope that the vaccines will be rolled out eventually, people will see some relief soon from Washington and spring will arrive eventually.....

1) Current Read   Paris 1919  by Margaret MacMillan

Woodrow Wilson's birthplace is a mere 30 minutes from the farm so this book is timely and interesting and has won many accolades.  And this era in our history is almost forgotten and never studied.

“The history of the 1919 Paris peace talks following World War I is a blueprint of the political and social upheavals bedeviling the planet now. . . . A wealth of colorful detail and a concentration on the strange characters many of these statesmen were keep [MacMillan’s] narrative lively.”
—The New York Times Book Review

“MacMillan’s book reminds us of the main lesson learned at such a high cost in Paris in 1919: Peace is not something that can be imposed at the conference table. It can grow only from the hearts of people.”
—Los Angeles Times

“Beautifully written, full of judgment and wisdom, Paris 1919 is a pleasure to read and vibrates with the passions of the early twentieth century and of ours.”
—San Francisco Chronicle

2) Currently Stitching 

Almost finished with this lovely canvas from Lycette.  A pillow for my bedroom.

 

3) Neflix Recommendation   Mank

One of the best movies I have seen in a long time and what a shame you can't see this one in a movie theater environment. Incredibly done, Oscar buzz for sure. The story of the writer Herman Mankiewicz's time in LA writing Citizen Kane.   I now have to watch Citizen Kane again.  Treat yourself!

4) Equine Product Recommendation  Snacks Fifth Avenchew

Alfie and Madison have sugar issues so they can't get full sugar treats now.  Snacks Fifth Avenchew makes low sugar horse treats that they can enjoy. Perfect for shows (for Madison anyway) but they also make a full sugar version. Cutest horse treats ever!

 

5) Recipe Recommendation  One-Pot Gingery Chicken and Rice With Peanut Sauce

Here is a recipe for one from Bon Appetite that we'll enjoy next week. Easy, perfect for cold weather nights.

 

6) Whatever Else I am in love with Jill Biden's coat, worn to her inaugural party this week but we could hardly see it in the dark. Who knew our new first lady had so much style?  Here's what designer Gabriela Hearst has to say about it.....

The message of Unity is the main inspiration for the creation of the Ensemble. Unity makes strength and it is needed for the road ahead. The blooming symbol to represent this message are the federal flowers from every state and territory of the United States of America. The flowers are embroidered into the cashmere coat on the hem line in an organic pattern that rises organically on the side’s seams. On the dress, the embroidery is placed on the silk organza neckline and arms. The body of the dress is constructed in silk wool cady. The Delaware flower is positioned at the heart level of The First Lady, from there, all the other flowers branch out. The pieces were made entirely in New York City. The Embroidery and Coat were crafted in the garment district and the dress was assembled at the in-house studio. Each flower took approximately two - four hours to embroider. Careful placements and color selections were carefully studied for weeks. Inside of the coat, representing the lifelong calling and service of Dr. Biden as an educator is a hand embroidery of the lining with a quote from Founding Father Benjamin Franklin.

“Tell me and I forget. Team me and I remember. Involve me and I learn”

The materials used were existing available fabrics to minimize the impact on the environment. It was extremely important to showcase the ability of the knowledgeable and masterful handcraft available in our Nation.