I’ve decided to start writing you little notes in these posts! It’s been an interesting couple of weeks, hasn’t it?
Last week, I marched alongside 100’s of thousands of people who are as concerned right now as I am. Some of you let me know on Instagram that you think it’s inappropriate for a jewelry blogger to hold political opinions. I disagree! I’m going to keep sharing my opinions when I feel like sharing my opinions. You’re welcome to ignore those bits, or stop following my content together, but I hope you’ll stay.
It’s so hard to strike the balance between staying informed about current events and feeling overwhelmed by everything that’s going on that I find upsetting. I’m not really sure what the answer is, but I’m trying my best.
I’m heading off to Tucson tomorrow to bring you a taste of all the colored gemstone glories the AGTA has to offer!! Be sure to follow me, the AGTA, and my fellow Gembassador, Hannah Becker, on Instagram so you don’t miss anything. If you’re going too, you should join is in playing AGTAiSpy!
I’ll be back soon! I hope you’re all taking care of yourselves.
xoxo,
Becky
What I’m reading:
Suddenly You by Lisa Kleypas. This book is delightful. Slightly older heroine (for a historical) who has given up on love and so decides to hire a male prostitute for her birthday. Things do not go as planned.
Somewhere I’ll find you by Lisa Kleypas. I’m on a Lisa Kleypas kick! I don’t think this one is going to end up being, one of my very favorite ones of hers, but “not one of my very favorites” from Lisa Kleypas is still thoroughly enjoyable.
Mine Till Midnight by Lisa Kleypas. I like this one a bit better, although I wish the hero was a smidgen less domineering. It looks good on him, though.
Internets:
I love this post from my friend Beth Bernstein on the multi-talented woman jewelry pioneers of the 20th century.
The NYT ran an article lamenting the fate of the poor men who had to take on the monumental task of looking after their own children while their wives protested in the Women’s March. Here’s an article from Slate about why that article was idiotic.
Apparently 2017 will be the year of the infantalizing “oops, did I put my finger in my mouth?” selfie.
U.S. Mint Unveils 2017 American Liberty Gold Coin, Featuring A Black Woman As Lady Liberty.
The Girl Who Drank the Moon just won the Newbery Medal! I loved this book.
Trump signed an Executive Order reinstating something called the Global Gag rule, which forbids giving US funding to non-Federal organizations that offer information about abortion (the “offer information about” is key – it’s not organizations that offer abortions, it’s any organization that would even discuss the fact that abortion is an option.)
Here’s information about how the last time such the Global Gag rule was in place, abortion rates in 20 countries rose 40%, and it contributed to the deaths of 3,000 women per year in Nigeria alone. Trump has been President for less than a week and he’s already killing women.
The Olsen twins are adding vintage jewelry to The Row’s offerings.
This designer has started a fascinating trend: what do you think of a bracelet that is soldered permanently onto your wrist, too closely-fitted to remove?
For more reads, check out my Amazon recommended books store. This post contains affiliate links.
Nicole says
Your critiques, opinions, and ‘voice’ are the very reasons why I follow you! (and I think I can say I’m not alone here)
Keep speaking your truth. I hope those who don’t agree will at least be willing to engage in respectful debate. That’s the point of democracy, right?
Oh, and if you could keep distracting me with beautiful sparkly things that would be great, too…. 💍
Becky says
Thanks so much, lovely Nicole!! And don’t worry: the sparkly distractions will never stop.
xoxo,
Becky
Janet says
I agree as well! Keep it up! I don’t know how folks can think it’s ‘inappropriate’ for you to express your own opinions in your own posts.
Just because they might disagree with you, doesn’t mean they have the right to command you to be quiet. Discussion and debate is vital to our democracy. Thank you for marching!
Becky says
Thanks so much for your support, Janet! It means a lot to me.
xoxo,
Becky
Megan says
I agree with everything you say in your opener. You’re an American citizen and as such, not only do you have the right to a political opinion, but you have an obligation to have one, and to speak out when you see your country’s leaders heading down a path that goes against everything the country stands for. So what I’m saying is, keep on keepin’ on!
Becky says
Thanks Megan!! I appreciate your support.