Emily: For Nancy...the banner lady and unofficial 3rd

This little package is on its way to you....

Emily: Thanks Lady!

Thank you so much for sending me sweet cards on a pretty regular basis when we email, blog, and text each other so often. It is nice to have something tactile to remind me of you and the days when I would bring in handfuls of vintage rhinestone jewelry to your room when you were getting ready for dates.

Emily: Happy Birthday Lady and I miss you btw

Emily: Friends over

Last night my dear friend came over to sup with his new fiance. She is a wonderful addition to both his and my life, and I am so happy that they have found one another.

So happy, in fact, that I got all excited and set the table with my very best linens, which were gifts from Mackenzie of Site Design and Alberto and Mercedes from Etos way back when we were all studying at NYSID and napkin rings made for me by my little sister, who is now an art student at Tyler.

Using the beautiful things we own not only connects us to the time and place when we acquired them, but creates a sense of meaningfulness for the present moment. Setting the table for much anticipated guests is not about displaying what you own but instead creating a space worth lingering in. These beautiful things tell them "you are special, enjoy yourself."

Emily: Big Love

The cabin where I live belonged to my Great Grandmother. When I was little, I called my Great Grandma "Big Grandma", apparently confusing the two words "great" and "big". She hated the name, but I didn't and not only called her that my whole life, but taught my two younger brothers to do the same.

I also made her this little sign, which she proudly displayed in her home, and which I display today. You can see how the sun faded the center portion that was not covered by the frame. I am grateful that she accepted such a crudely rendered gift, and also that the sentiment was true.

Emily: Pillow tags

Le Owner is so industrious that often when I start something new I start by asking her how she did it. Such is true about the labels I wanted for the pillows I am planning for my Etsy shop. I thought, "why go to all the trouble of designing pillows with carefully planned details if once they are in the world it is not evident where they came from?" aka "where my props at?" I looked online and got a few bids that were way too high in both quantity and price. Then I remembered the darling pillows sold exclusively at SITE, with labels saying as much. So I emailed Le Owner and she shared this website with me. Thanks, lady!