10-4-25
What I Can’t Let Go Of:
The importance and absolute joy of a tight girl squad —
your team of women who “get” you!
A team who nurtures each other
are each other’s teachers and cheerleaders
who give support and graciously receive support.
Two weeks ago I loved being away on a getaway with my HS besties
(yes, many decades later we are still supporting each other and reveling in silly shenanigans)
And now this week, I’m in the Pasadena area with my small blogging mastermind group.
A group of six bloggers, who all have different specialties and different styles,
but are navigating the same path together.
How did we come to be?
Four years ago, I attended my first large bloggers conference.
At a breakout session of about 120 were gathered in a ballroom, we went around the room
introducing ourselves, why we were there and our goal for the conference.
My why:
I had heard repeatedly that as we age, we should learn a foreign language or to play a musical instrument.
I was choosing a foreign language — blogging!
My goal:
To find my people, my squad.
And that’s how this group began.
By going out on a limb, by pushing my fears and anxiety to the side (for just a bit),
my life has been enriched beyond all expectations.
I hope you do the same, and find the same. Even if you don’t think you need it!
Overhead Comfort & Lighting
This time of year I love sleeping with the widows open, but it can still get stuffy. Old school ceiling fans can be rather . . . . well, old school and not in a good way.
I had seen fandeliers and was intrigued by their style, but skeptical of their functionality.
Oh my!!!
After sleeping under that cool white and brass one this week, I am sold!!!
I have the lower right one in my cart for our primary bedroom.
(Click on collage to shop all the fan lights)
More Lighting
The right lighting makes all difference.
I’ve seen the little rechargeable accent lights, but was again skeptical.
Wendy has several and these are the favorites of all of us girls.
They look solid. They are a great height. They charge quickly and last.
We used them outdoors, then on our work table and then in a tall bookcase as nightlights.
Heaven For Your Feet
This may be the craziest thing I have ever recommended.
But trust me they are a little slice of heaven for your feet — especially if you wear a 9 1/2 or larger shoe.
I have tried four different pairs of low no-show sox for cute sneakers and even booties. (three from Amazon and one from Marshall’s — worthless) They either didn’t stay on my heel, or my toes were painfully restricted, or bulky seams.
But I found these at Walmart, in extended sizes, that are truly long enough, truly no show, and surprisingly refreshing for my feet!
Custom Artwork
I custom ordered this large canvas “tapestry” for a philanthropy I’ve been working with to reimagine their Admin offices.
I cannot speak highly enough about this canvas!!!
Loads of vintage artwork to choose from, many sizes, and a delightful family to work with.
You can order with your own quote, saying, song lyrics, Bible verse, or as I did, a Mission Statement.
I am absolutely thrilled with how it turned out.
Now Let’s See What the Other Gals Found For Us
Cindy – Reinvented Delaware
Sidenote for context: Sweet Cindy lost her dear husband very suddenly four months ago. It’s been an understandably hard journey. I am so very happy to have her back today (and she took a big leap and flew to CA to be with us this week).
- These last months have been hard. Journaling has been a huge help to me as I walk through this difficult journey of grief. Journaling my thoughts and prayers each morning has become a lifeline. Having a quality journal and a smooth writing pen helps me to get my hearts thoughts and prayers onto paper. I currently have the gorgeous sage green journal but it also comes in several otherbeautiful colors.
- My pastor gave me a book called Finding God in the Gray. He wrote the book several years ago as he walked through several difficult seasons in his own life. I’ve poured over that book at least twice and each time I read it, I gain new understanding. I’ve also written in the book as I have read it. The blue ink of my favorite pen is always with this book. If you or someone you know is in a hard season, I recommend you grab this book.
- My son wanted me to have a Ring Alarm Security System for my home. He found the one that he thought would be best. It arrived a couple of days ago so I will be installing it soon. It will send out an alarm if the doors or windows are opened during set times. I’ll definetely have it set for the night hours so that I can sleep soundly. I also purchased a couple of rechargeable brass lamps that help the dark evenings feel a bit more cozy.
- The house has been oddly quiet without my sweet hubby there. I’ve decided it would be nice to have music that I could turn on when I am feeling the quiet a little too much. So I bought an Alexa Echo Show. It sits on my kitchen island and I can tell Alexa to play a particular genre of music or a podcast. There are several other commands Alexa will do for me, I’m still learning about it!
Lora – Lora Bloomquist
- It’s the season of yard clean up! I just got Mr. Fix it THIS mini chainsaw. It’s going to be great for trimming trees and other small jobs. Think I may even enjoy using it. I’m also stocking up on THESE to wash windows and spraying THIS around the foundation of our house.
- Maybe it’s because I’m grinding my own flour and baking a lot lately, but I’m attracted to vintage mixing bowls. Especially green ceramic ones with lines. There are so many beautiful vintage versions available; they’re beautiful and functional! Find vintage mixing bowls HERE.
- In the pursuit of better health, I’ve added a couple items into my daily routine. I add THIS and THIS to my glasses of water. And shake THIS on anything and everything. Simple, great way to add health to your everyday!
- I’m still decorating for Fall. Love bringing out my collection of Amber glass bottles. I try to set them where the sunbeams can shine through, to add that Fall glow. Find vintage amber glass bottles HERE.
Lynn – Living Large in a Small House
I just love to wrap myself up in a throw this time of year. I have more throws around my house than should be allowed by law. That being said, it doesn’t detour me from acquiring more.
- I’ve had my eye on this throw from JSH Essentials in Kansas City. I’ve held it in my hands in person and it’s incredibly soft. I can be used as a home decor throw or as a wrap around your shoulders on a chilly evening.
- I have it on good authority that this Luxe Chenille Throw from West Elm is to die for!
- I have only bought clothing from Quince, but their quality is amazing, and so I’m sure this Mongolian Cashmere Throw is fabulous. It comes in two colors and two sizes. I’m thinking about getting the smaller size to use as a pashmina. It could also double as a light blanket when you’re traveling.
- This one is an Oprah #1 pick, so I’m guessing it’s good. This Barefoot Dreams Throw looks so soft and dreamy for snuggling up in front of the fire, watching a good movie.
Anna – Sky Lark House
- I fell in love with this round pheasant pillow I found on Amazon for $36. It even has a zipper so you can remove the cover for cleaning.
- Have you seen the recent trend of adding brass rails in your kitchen? I am thinking of adding a brass rail to my coffee station to hang my mugs. These rails range from affordable to super expensive. Here are three affordable options. I like this one the best at almost 40 inches for $55. This one is also a good option at 15 inches for $16. Finally, this version by IKEA is also reasonable at 23 inches for $31.
- Now that it is getting darker earlier, I am looking for some cordless lamps. I found a variety to choose from ranging in price between $30-$40 each.
- This set of 6 brown transferware dinner plates are lovely for fall and Thanksgiving. They are a great price point at $45.
- Finally, I could not believe the sale price of this chair from the Jenny and Dave Mars collection. These will be sold out soon.
I hope you’ve been enjoying the weekend!!! Thanks for hanging out with me a bit,
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