Morning Journal Glory

About six months ago, I began a practice that's changed the tone of my mornings--for the better.  I began setting aside 25-30 minutes to write in my journal (I used to write in the evenings only.).

Some mornings, I'm running a bit late... Played with the cat a bit too long or slept in later than normal... On those days, I still write--even if it's only a few lines for a couple of minutes.

I can't tell you how many dilemmas I've ended up solving, the number of "aha" moments I've enjoyed or the precise amount of clarity I've gained as a result of my morning journaling practice.  I can simply say that there's been more than I'd have ever imagined possible.

Morning journal writing has become a luxury I crave.  And, I make every effort possible to do a bit of  it each workday before heading out.

 Washable Silk Skirt: Thrifted

Belt: Banana Republic

Shirt: L.L. Bean

Shoes: Nine West

Sunnies: Vera Bradley

Watch: Hubby's Cast Off

Handbag: The Leather Satchel Co. via Asos

Necklace: Purchased from Talented Artist Friend

What's your favorite morning ritual?  Writing in my journal has fast become mine.

Joy, hugs & peace, T.

What I Wore to an Evening, Outdoor Gathering...

The Saturday before last, Mark and I journeyed to Michigan, late in the afternoon.  You see, we had been invited to a surprise birthday party for a dear family friend.  The celebratory dinner gathering was scheduled to begin early in the evening and was to be held (primarily) outdoors.

The weather was somewhat nippy (high in the 50's) and there was a threat of rain (which ultimately could have forced our party indoors).  I wanted to be warm, yet feel relaxed and casual (chic, too--if possible!).

White jeans are always a great solution for summertime gatherings such as this.  I think they have "classic elegance" written all over their casual selves!  A scarf is always a nice touch too--especially when it's still chilly out.

A statement handbag, gold tone jewelry and matching flats complete this look.  What do you think? I can happily report that I kept relatively warm, was comfy and felt quite pulled together--all at the same time. Even better, the guest of honor ended up being totally surprised about the party (always priceless), I enjoyed savoring time with friends and loved ones, and the rain held off (the sun even came out for a while!). Now, that's what I call a fab evening!

Sweater: Ralph Lauren (gifted and older)

Jeans: J Crew

Scarf: Gifted (Thank you, Andrew + Amanda!)

Shoes: Zara

Handbag: Michael Kors

Sunnies: Vera Bradley

Earrings: Vintage Monet

Men's Watch: Pulsar (gifted)

Please share your "summertime gathering" wardrobe tips with me!  I would adore hearing them!

Joy and peace, T.

Themed Style: Nautical...

One of my favorite summertime looks is nautical style. Stripes, cuffed jeans (generally, white or blue) and canvas shoes are mainstays for how I'll wear this look, but I will often throw on an accessory or jewelry item with anchors on it, too.

Even though I cite "jeans" and "canvas shoes" as hallmarks of this look, it can easily be pulled off with the right dress or skirt + top combo.  I found a fab Pinterest page dedicated to the various looks of nautical style.  Check it out by clicking here.

Although any color works, red, white and blue are defined nautical style hues.  Black paired with white--or even red + black + white work swimmingly, too.  Gold (in both jewelry and clothing) lends itself to that "right off the docks" feel as well.

An assessment of my closet indicates there will be scads of nautical-themed style (for me) this spring and summer.  That, I like! Nautical style is not only classical; it has "summertime" written all over it.

Sunnies: Vera Bradley

Chambray Shirt: Fossil

Sweater: Liz Claiborne (older)

Jeans: Chico's

Sneakers: Converse

Handbag: Sole Society

Men's Watch: Pulsar (gifted)

Love Knot Earrings: Gifted

Now... I know I've only scratched the surface on nautical style (as I define it).  But...I would adore hearing your tips for this fun summertime look; so, please share!

Joy & peace, T.

An Exercise in Appreciation...

I'm gonna brag a bit... You see, I live in a beautiful community...

These pics were taken at our local courthouse.  Strangely, it's only been in the last few years that I've truly appreciated the beauty of this building and its surrounding grounds.  Better late than never, right?

These days, I'm giving appreciation for things I may have taken for granted--in years gone by: a good laugh, a quiet evening at home, the glory of gathering with loved ones to celebrate, a beautiful evening sky...

Sometimes, I note what I'm thankful for in my journal.  Other times, I build lists of gratitude in my mind as I drive to and from work each day.  Being thankful enhances the quality of my life--forces me to see what I may not otherwise...

 Blazer: Peace of Cloth

Top: L.L. Bean

Jeans: Calvin Klein

Belt: J Crew

Shoes: Target

Handbag: Michael Kors

Gold Earrings: Gifted

Bracelet: Fossil

Men's Watch: Pulsar (gifted)

Sunnies: Vera Bradley

Tell me what you're thankful for today!  I'd love to hear about it!!!

Joy, hugs and peace!  T.

Clothing Review: eShakti.com

The word of the day (for me) is "shakti." According to Google, "shakti" is defined as "the female principle of divine energy, especially when personified as the supreme deity." Isn't that luscious (the female principle of divine energy)?

Recently, the folks at eShakti.com asked if I'd like to review one of their clothing items.  After checking out their website, I simply couldn't resist the opportunity to do so.  You see, their style is classically fresh; which is how I define the look I've claimed for myself.

eShakti.com is the only online women's fashion apparel company offering size 0-36W and custom-made clothing. When ordering, I plugged in both my size and height for this lovely frock.  At 5' 4" tall, I often find that getting the correct garment length is my greatest wardrobe challenge; so, I am absolutely adoring this option!

I cannot rave highly enough about my experience with eShakti.com.  This dress is not only gorgeous; it's well made, and arrived to me within a few short days of my ordering it.

eShakti.com is offering a 10% discount to readers of this blog (Coupon code: tpwes) through June 8, 2014.  Please note these coupon terms:

• Code has to be entered in the ‘promotional code’ box.   It is not case-sensitive.  
• Code can be used any number of times until the validity period. 
• It can be clubbed with any other promotional offer, gift coupon or gift card in the same order unless explicitly specified otherwise in the offer conditions.
• This discount code is not applicable on clearance / sale, gift cards & overstock categories.
• Not applicable on previous purchases.

 Dress: eShakti.com

Sunnies:  Nine West

Heels: Nine West

Clutch: Vintage Avon

Bracelet: Vintage Monet

Gold Love Knot Earrings: Gifted

Cardigan: Ralph Lauren (gifted)

A lovely dress like this makes it easy for me to stand in my own divine female energy! It is a classic piece I'll (no doubt) have for many years to come. Plus, she has "summertime" written all over her (Don't you think?).  My experience with eShakti.com exceeded my expectations; making me one happy woman!

Joy and peace, T.

Creative Style: A Jacket as a Shirt...

Creativity takes form in more ways than one.  Creativity is problem solving on the job.  It's selecting ways to make a rainy day a bit more special.  Creativity also means finding ways to wear treasured clothing pieces differently--more expressively.

Like my jean shirt?  It's a jacket, actually.  This piece is one I've had in my closet for a number of years, now.  I've always loved its rich look. Plus, it fits me perfectly; so, I've held on to it, and enjoyed wearing it over the years.

These pics were taken last week--on my 52nd birthday.  I'm standing outside the restaurant where Mark and I enjoyed dinner that evening.  Yes, I had a fabulous time savoring a celebratory dinner with my one and only.  But, I gotta admit... Another thing that totally rocked my night was the pride I took in creatively donning a fave item of clothing to dinner.

 Jean Jacket (fashioned as a shirt): Duck Head (older)

White Jeans: Calvin Klein

Belt: Tommy Hilfiger

Shoes: Nine West

Sunnies: Betsey Johnson

Handbag: Vintage (Mosaic Consignment Shop)

Necklace: Purchased from Talented Artist Friend

Watch: Mark's Cast Off

Silver Link ID Bracelet: Mark's

Slip-on Bracelet: Tiffany (Vintage via Etsy)

Select a few fave pieces in your wardrobe to sport creatively this week. You'll find it's a totally empowering way to get your creative on...

Joy and peace, T.

Why I Try Not to Multitask...

In response to a question I got from a reader regarding a post I wrote last week, this post answers the question of why I try not to multitask. ..

My vision of a life well-lived is one where serenity reigns and living mindfully enables me to experience each moment in life as fully as possible.  With each passing year, I am more than glad to trade in frenetic  for slow, smooth and simple. It's one of the reasons I try not to multitask (if possible).

For past posts related to my quest to live more mindfully, click:

• Here; 
• Here; and
• Here.

There's another reason I try not to multitask, though... Studies show it has a negative impact upon our mental capabilities.  Yikes!

Dress: I.N. Studio via Dillards

Cardigan: Ralph Lauren (gifted)

Scarf: Local Boutique Purchase (For Keeps)

Tights: Simply Vera Wang

Heels: Nine West

Handbag: Milly

Belt: Chaps via Kohl's

Sunnies: Firmoo

Do I multitask?  Sure, who doesn't?  Am I seeking to do less and less of it each day?  You betcha! 

Joy & peace, T.

Life with Sprinkles on Top...

Isn't it amazing how a few sprinkles can make a cupcake more special? "Sprinkles," when added to life, can bring about the same magical transformation.

You may ask, "What are "sprinkles?"" Sprinkles are the cup of tea savored at the hair salon. They are the moments taken to stop and smell the blooming roses showcased atop the table in the foyer. The morning journal writing, the walk after dinner, the cuddles with the adopted shelter pet--all of these are what I call, "sprinkles."

Sprinkles are what make you smile, relax, and giggle out loud.  They are the things that help you to feel joyous, serene, loved and beautiful. Sprinkles are whatever you say they are!

Silk Blouse: Chico's (older)

Linen Maxi Dress: Flax

Sunnies: DKNY

Handbag: Fossil

Art Deco Pendant: Vintage via Etsy

Shoes: Zara

Ceramic Watch: Anne Klein

Rose Gold Link Bracelet: Vintage via Etsy

The photo, below, was taken at the salon last Thursday evening. It features a yummy cup of orange-chocolate green tea I enjoyed while reading a book as my highlights "set."

Share with me your visions of life's sprinkles. Pretty please! Joy & peace, T.

P.S. I'm linking to the Two Birds' blog on Monday. Check it out!