Friday Finds #222

What a week.

Four months later…. HELLO! After the longest week in history, it felt as right of a time as any to pop back in for a pulse check.

I was in Kansas City last weekend for a baby shower and it was the loveliest weekend catching up with girlfriends, but man — it’s hard to believe that was just last weekend. It’s hard to wrap my mind around how fast time goes, while some days and weeks feel like they won’t end.

I went out to lunch with two of my girlfriends today and while I almost skipped because I had some work to finish up, I’m so glad I went. I didn’t realize just how much I needed some girl time, even though I was essentially on a girls’ trip last weekend. So please take this as a sign to prioritize time with your besties this weekend if you can, it really does wonders for the soul.

Here are this week’s finds…

Things to Read, Watch, & Listen to

I’ve watched the new Martha documentary on Netflix twice now. Couldn’t recommend it more!! I watched it in KC and then watched it again with Dave at home this week. I found her story and career journey incredibly motivating and had forgotten how much she’s pioneered the lifestyle ‘influencer’ space. This is so embarrassing to admit, but when I started my blog and my @bowsandsequins Twitter handle (as this was 2010 before Instagram), my bio was something along the lines of “a little bit Martha Stewart, a little bit Rachel Zoe.” 😂 Needless to say, I guess she’s always been a bit of an inspiration to me, but I thoroughly enjoyed seeing how she’s reinvented herself over the years, and also learning more details about her ‘insider trading’ scandal. She’s truly such a badass and the show made me respect her even more!

If you need a light book to read, I just finished Husbands & Lovers and WOW — I never wanted it to end. Such a great book! Even my girlfriends who usually prefer thrillers loved it. I’m looking forward to our book club next week to discuss it even more! (Speaking of reading… I recently got this $10 book light and it’s been such a game changer for my reading time, as it doesn’t keep Dave up at night.)

I’ve been curating ‘mini mixes’ that are around 30 minutes long on Spotify… They’re meant to shift your mood in the best way, so if you, too, need a little pep in your step, here’s the link to this week’s mix.

I saw We Live in Time in theatres a few weeks back and couldn’t recommend it more! It’s a major tear-jerker, but such a great story with even better characters and acting.

Things to Shop

Adidas just re-stocked some great Samba colors!! I have this pair from last year that I wear all the time in the fall/winter, but I’m oh so tempted to buy this neutral pair.

I’m also obsessed with this burgundy pair!!

These party pumps could pass for Gucci, but you’ll never guess where they’re from! (Hint: they’re only $30 and have 5-star reviews!)

Similarly, these heels look just like Loeffler Randall, but for a fraction of the price.

I’ve been saving some of the holiday party dresses (and tops and bottoms!) I’ve been loving in this list! Soooo many budget-friendly finds.

Speaking of budget-friendly, I’ve been trying to find a fun burgundy bag that doesn’t break the bank and I believe I just found the winner at a mere $80!

Sometimes I like to shop by color or print, so if you’re a weirdo like I am, I made some fun curated shops…. Burgundy, Green, Navy Blue, Leopard Print, Brown, Studs, Cobalt, Plaid, Bows, Sequins. Somehow it’s cathartic for my brain to sort lots of different retailer favorites into groups like this!

I’ve searched for a cheaper alternative to the Ralph Lauren western belt for eons… Unfortunately, to no avail thus far. HOWEVER, this belt is going in the right direction for $138!! It has the medallions all the way around and I actually kind of like how they’re shiny gold instead of a brushed silver.

I love this stitched winter beanie!

If you’re into the moon,s I just bought The Modern Astrologer’s 2025 Moon Ritual Workbook.

Things to Cook

If you turn into a baker when you’re stressed (like I do), might I recommend this apple cider donut bread recipe?! I made both muffins and a loaf and both were phenom. You could even add pecans or walnuts for a little crunch.

I haven’t made this one yet, but saved this recipe recently: Orzo al Limone with Crispy Parmesan Chicken

Hang in there this weekend, friends! xx jess