The Collective: Curated by Collin Duwe
I spend way too much time and money on the internet so you don't have to.
Articles Worth Your Time
Where was the president in the eight hours after the Sept. 11 attacks? The strange, harrowing journey of Air Force One, as told by the people who were onboard. It's a LONG read but worth it.
"Nearly 13 years after my sister's death, a reluctant Sunday visit to the 9/11 Memorial Museum, where public spectacle and private grief have a permanent home together."

It only makes sense that a genre dealing in emotions as old as time would take cues from writing that’s practically just as dated.
In an election season harried by mail delays and COVID-19, getting updated information is key. Here's the ultimate guide to voting in the 2020 election.

Nightstand Pile: What I'm Reading
I know I'm behind on this one but I have been hesitant to start it since I bought it a few months ago. I find myself pulling away from heavier subject matter because *gestures vaguely*. Based on the real story of a reform school that operated for 111 years and warped the lives of thousands of children, it's a Pulitzer Prize winner and on every best book list imaginable.
The title comes from a conversation the author had with a Marine Corps general. "Officers eat last," he said. Sinek watched as the most junior Marines ate first while the most senior Marines took their place at the back of the line. What's symbolic in the chow hall is deadly serious on the battlefield: Great leaders sacrifice their own comfort--even their own survival--for the good of those in their care. Dramatic? Slightly but I loved this book.
This one of my all-time favorite books. This modern love story is told entirely through dictionary entries which are brief and concise - but punch you right in the gut and tend to linger.
Looking for more book recommendations? Here's my Amazon List - some I've read and some are waiting in the wings. Let me know if something should be on my radar!
Add to Cart: Shopping Finds, Steals & Sales
  • Today is the final day of the Away sale that came out of nowhere and dropped some DEALS. While there isn't a ton left, it's a great chance to grab a discount on this never-before-discounted line. Make sure you note what is Final Sale and what is discounted - only difference is the return policy as you'll be covered by their warranty regardless. I love my Bigger Carry-On and can't imagine traveling without it.
  • I have a bag problem and it's bad. I have bags full of bags but I am ready to declare this bag as my absolute all-time favorite. I wish I was cool enough to be an ambassador for this company but, alas, this is just me telling you to buy this bag. I use it as an everyday office bag and it sits perfectly atop my carry-on luggage for weekend trips. Trust me, it's a game changer.
  • In addition to a bag problem, I have a candle problem. To clarify, I have a candle closet. Anyway, I could be doing drugs so whatever. I haven't picked this one up yet but it's getting rave reviews, it's affordable, and it's chic as all hell.
  • The reviews on this dress are off the charts, it's affordable, and there are about a bazillion color combos. I think we need this, ladies.
  • This console is going in and out of stock - for good reason! I just snagged it and plan to use it for our record player/collection. As always, Target for the win.
  • Just ordered these unisex sunglasses from ze Amazon. 100% confident that they will look awful on my round face but that case though.
  • Okay, last one. Might be a placebo effect but this sh*t has me SNOOZIN' - ideally all the way through the rest of 2020.
Fifty more things I found on the Internet - including some great fall jackets, dresses for events (RIP), and some great plus-size finds.
Still need to fill a retail-shaped hole in your heart? Here's my Amazon Storefront. Buckle up and grab that credit card.
Links I Loved
For anyone in the Dallas area, check this out! It's a delivery service that offers three kits, as well as several al la carte items like half gallons of frosé, meatballs, garlic bread, and more. The Standard Kit ($65) includes a half gallon of frosé or vino tinto or bottle of Chianti, an antipasto spread, and garlic bread. For the whole family, go for the Baked Ziti Kit ($105) or 200-Layer Lasagna Kit ($120). They're also the masterminds behind Ritas and Queso.
"I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait to get my hands on some f*cking gourds and arrange them in a horn-shaped basket on my dining room table. That sh*t is going to look so seasonal. I’m about to head up to the attic right now to find that wicker f*cker, dust it off, and jam it with an insanely ornate assortment of shellacked vegetables. When my guests come over it’s gonna be like, BLAMMO! Check out my shellacked decorative vegetables, *ssholes. Guess what season it is — f*cking fall. There’s a nip in the air and my house is full of mutant f*cking squash." If you read one thing this issue, make sure it's this. Probably my favorite thing that has EVER hit the Internet and I look forward to it every fall.  
Ever wondered what an antidepressant would look like as a home? Yeah, me either but I think this is it.

Shameless Self Promotion
It me. I'm Collin. Shockingly, I hate talking about myself but here are the CliffsNotes. 31, Texan turned cruise ship character turned Texan turned Chicagoan turned Texan. Event designer and planner. Interior designer and stylist. Corporate badass. Partner and double dog dad. Cursed with an aggressive gluten intolerance but also a passion for bread and no fucks to give. Why a newsletter? It gives me a creative outlet with a deadline and my therapist says these things are important. Plus, I love to read, shop, share, and most importantly spend time on the internet. I don't sleep.

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