Savoring Simple Everyday Pleasures

Hard to believe we are already halfway thought the year almost- this coming week will be our shortest day here in New Zealand- hurrah! The down hill to Spring! As regular readers will know I actually enjoy and savor all the seasons for their unique qualities, but I do struggle with the lack of day light hours in the depths of winter- When it feels as though you are racing the clock to get everything you want achieved in natural light, before the draw to be cosy and snuggled in for the night becomes irresistible. 

So I am halfway through my no buy year- which is quite extraordinary really. And probably high time for a few home truths...

A year was probably a little ambitious- it's rather a long time to see round corners- and hard to predict what twists and turns life may take which inadvertently then "require" new/different/specific garments to be purchased or acquired. 

My willpower is also just not that strong! While I haven't directly bought new clothes, I have bought some sportswear, running shoes, and suggested to my lovely family they might like to gift me a woolen wrap coat I spied on sale for my Mothers Day gift! Which happily they did!

Oh, and a much-needed rain jacket for walking in the downpours as I frequently do- but that was purchased with Airpoints....

Then, just this past week, a huge development in working life and a job offer that just a month ago was inconceivable let alone in my sights. Pair this timing with the news one of my favorite Highstreet but quality timeless classic brands, SPORTSCRAFT is yet another casualty in this recession, and is ceasing trade. 

Consequently, this meant that several of their classic and rather lovely pieces were heavily discounted; timely with my recent requirement for some slightly more formal office attire! 

So, I made 2 purchases;

A classic wool blazer in camel, and a burgundy silk shirt. Classic, elegant, timeless and elevated. 

I am being gentle with myself, and not allowing myself to feel too much guilt or shame for not quite meeting my end of the promise. I will continue to be very mindful and intentional for the remainder of the year, but I have learned to be focused, appreciative and creative with what I am so fortunate to own already. Items I have introduced are genuinely required and will work for me, and with existing pieces for years to come. They were not frivolous items, or spur of the moment impulse buys. 

It is still quite possible I will need to add one or two more pieces to my working wardrobe, as the job and environment has changed considerably. But I will keep you updated, and I promise not to be silly, thoughtless or extravagant. Here's to the next 6 months and to an ongoing appreciation of what I already have, and a mindfulness of adding quality pieces as needed.