Yet Another Look Back on Summer...

Yesterday's "summertime past" post was well received.  Given that, and the fact that sub-zero and single-digit temps have kept me from photographing as of late, thought I'd share one final glance back at pics from fave blog posts published last summer...

What's in store for you this weekend?  I hope to enjoy time with Mark--and (possibly) get outdoors to photograph (smile).

Joy and peace, T.

A Warm Look Back on Last Summer...

This week, amidst single digit and sub-zero temps, I thought it would be fun to share a few blog pics from last summer.  Makes me feel a bit warmer, already (smile)!

What thoughts are keeping you warm right now? Pass them forward, please?

Joy and peace, T.

Blissfully Adrift...

Wow! What a winter it has been in northwest Ohio!  This past week, sub-zero temps--coupled with extremely high winds and scads of snow--have kept me from photographing much outdoors (These pics were taken on a particularly "good" day last week.  I think it may have been six degrees outdoors at the time!).

Straying from my routines gives me a sense of being adrift.  Interestingly enough, I somewhat like it...

Sure, I've got a few dreams I (someday) aspire to achieve.  Nevertheless, as I've moved away from this whole "five-year plan" stuff, I find I'm going it day-by-day (moment-by-moment, actually).  I'm letting my wise inner knowledge lead me as it deems fit.

Yes, it feels a bit foreign to someone who has always adhered to strict action plans to get her where she wants to go.  Adrift, however, carries with it a feeling of freedom, though.  Plus, there's the knowledge that my inner wisdom isn't going to cast me astray--which is remarkably reassuring...

Turtleneck: L.L. Bean

Lambswool Cardigan: No Brand

Slacks: Evan Picone

Booties: Mountain Lake

Gloves: Aris (vintage + consigned)

Bracelet: Tiffany (vintage via Etsy)

Handbag: Vera Bradley

Sunnies: Target

Pendant: Unknown brand--bought from a co-worker having a jewelry party

Ever feel somewhat adrift?  How's that working for you? Would relish hearing about it!

Joy and peace, T.

Being Inspired Invites Creative Opportunity

May I never stop being inspired--by nature, art, experiences and others' creative expressions!  You see... When I'm inspired, I'm open to life's possibilities. Being inspired means I'm inviting opportunity to embrace me--full on...

The outfit I'm wearing today was inspired by a photo posted on the Two Birds' blog for this week's Inspirational Monday link-up (where I'll be linking this post).  It's what I wore Saturday evening to dinner out at a local campus pub with Mark.

Saturday, where I live, was snowy, incredibly cold and laden with gusts of strong wind that seemed to come out of no where.  Initially, I had no idea what to wear--given the environment.  Then, I decided to let inspiration guide me a bit...

Being inspired has never failed me.  It's always allowed creativity the opportunity to join me in whatever endeavor I have undertaken.

 Beret: Vintage via Etsy

Chambray Shirt: Fossil

Sweater: J Crew

Gloves: Coach (vintage)

Jeans: Aeropostale

Suede Boots: Payless

Handbag: Coach (vintage)

Where do you find inspiration?  How do you use inspiration to create opportunities in your life?  Please share your insights!

Joy & peace, T.

A Grown-up Girl's Creed...

Sometimes, I remember being a little girl as if it was only yesterday.  Although, I still value having a childlike sense of curiosity, surprise and imagination, I know there's distinct advantages to being all grown up.  Namely, the fact that... 

I choose my own thoughts in order to manifest the feelings I desire.  I mold the environment I inhabit in order to make it a lovely place. I build meaningful moments of communion with others.

I use my creative gifts. I give gratitude for all that I have. I mindfully seek beauty everywhere I go.

I chart my own course. I own my inner wisdom. Whatever life throws, I know, "I got this."

Sunnies: Betsey Johnson via T.J. Maxx

Jacket: Vintage

Sweater: Banana Republic (thrifted)

Statement Necklace: Jennifer Lopez via Kohl's

Belt: Banana Republic

Jeans: DKNY

Boots: Nine West

Gloves: Moschino

Handbag: Milly

Scarf: Gifted (from a fellow Zontian)

Leather Cuff Bracelet: Vintage via Cactus Flower (Bloomington, IN)

What do you cherish most about being all grown up? Would love to hear about it!

Joy and peace, T.

Styling Sensibly

When it comes to style, I'd say mine is somewhat eclectic.  You see, I adore classics, but enjoy infusing edgy trends into my look from time-to-time, too. And, vintage...well, I absolutely LOVE donning it!

When it comes to building my wardrobe, quality is essential.  That doesn't necessarily equate to spending much money, however... Sure, I'll invest in an item of clothing or an accessory along the way.  Even so, I'm just as quick to buy a fab wardrobe piece from a thrift or consignment shop, a local boutique featuring handmade goods, or a retailer known for offering great prices on quality clothing pieces.

Recently, the folks at Rosegal contacted me to see if I'd like to review an item of their clothing.  Rosegal is known for vintage-inspired as well as contemporary style fashions for a modern age.  They offer free worldwide shipping and 30 days unconditional return.  Courtesy of Rosegal, I selected the lovely striped blouse featured in this post (I simply heart it! Don't you?).  Click here to see another one I really like.

The blouse I chose was so reasonably priced, I initially had qualms whether I'd be pleased with it or not.  Turns out, it was a great value for the price!  This blouse is not only in keeping with my personal style; it fits me well, laundered to my satisfaction (dried nearly wrinkle free), and appears to be well made.  I'm quite pleased with my Rosegal experience!  And...I've already envisioned various ways I can style my sweet blouse for future blog posts (smile).

Blouse: Rosegal

Skirt: Banana Republic (thrifted)

Tights: Simply Vera Wang via Kohl's

Sunnies: Nine West

Booties: Nine West

Belt: No brand (and thrifted)

Leather Gloves: Target

Handbag: Sole Society

Statement Necklace: Bought at a local charity auction

How would you classify your personal style?  What's your definition of quality?  Would relish hearing your thoughts!

Joy and peace, T.