Savoring simple daily pleasures 

I have a little confession- just between you and I....

I feel like having scraped through my No Buy Year, I have entered into 2025 full steam ahead in the retail vicinity! As if I'd stored it all up, and now I'm a runaway train. 

I know Im spending out of my budget, my family is commenting on the packages arriving constantly, I'm purchasing things on a whim or because I get in advertently snaggled by something that catches my eye on social media (Which I truly don't spend much time on!) and then its like an itch I have to scratch. The minute you give that rabbit hole breathing room, the algorithms and advertising trends pounce. Then you turn on a separate device, and that same product pops up. It's an absolute trap. One that many people, clearly, fall into, and it's a tough climb back out. 

I'm the woman who successfully curated a ten-item wardrobe for close to a decade. I have always loved shopping and clothes, and get huge satisfaction in putting together seasonal wardrobes -  much of what I write about is from a style perspective. 

But this is next level. And it's escalated SO fast!

So why do we do it? What are we buying into? 

Is it how we want something to make us feel? 

Will Lululemon garments magically make us slimmer and fitter? 

Its tricky- As I believe its a very fine line- In a way- yes they can- there is a little bit of magic involved in, say for example, purchasing a sleek and functional new workout wardrobe- that will help drive you, motivate you, and help you become that fitter, stronger version of your self. But spending $250 on a Lululemon lightweight top - which you can't afford, simply because you've seen it looking great on an influencer.... not so much. You have to already be working on those goals and already set on the right trajectory for that kind of motivation to spur you on. 

Not only does that influencer probably look great in anything, its highly likely that not only did they not purchase the items themselves, but that they are paid to wear them!  This is truly not a criticism of their job or approach- its just a warning of getting too close to the honey pot. 

Social media and having the world constantly at our fingertips have transformed "keeping up with the Joneses" within our neighbourhood, to keeping up with the international Joneses, where every shot is posed and every "effortless outfit" meticulously put together. 

The way we shop is dramatically different, with the pandemic no doubt influencing the massive surge in online shopping. Now we are conditioned to browse stores from our armchairs- and can purchase and arrange delivery without even entering our card details or delivery address.....it remembers it ALL! So gone are the days of "going shopping" with a set budget as your budget was whatever CASH was in our purse- when you ran out, it was gone til next pay day.  Shops closed at 5pm, many were closed one day or a half day in the week, and Nothing was open on Sundays. No credit cards, no Afterpay, no interest-free or lay-by! It's so disconnected these days. As we sip our coffee, our face instructs our phones to process a payment for a top we didn't know we needed or wanted! It's the stuff Sci Fi was made of when we were kids! 

A sad fact which is also becoming apparent, while I absolutely advocate for quality pieces, quality is not what it was. It used to be that if you paid a little more, you'd be rewarded in the quality- think woolens, cashmere, cotton, and workmanship, finishing details, seams, buttons, linings. These days it seems in so many disappointing cases, we shell out the extra in the faith it will be of a higher quality and last longer, and in reality, we are paying for the name and pretty packaging. To get a real quality difference, we have to pay a whole lot more. 

A dear friend just finally bought a stunning pair of boots she'd been longing for and saving for they are top-end, timeless but classic, and exquisitely crafted. She will have them and love them for decades, I have no doubt. They are not fast fashion; they are traditionally designed and fabricated. These are not an impulse buy. 

I spent out on a cashmere cardigan a few seasons ago. It was an investment, a classic style and colour. I have looked after it as I do all my clothing, but now it is so badly pilled and a little out of shape - yet I sunk several hundred dollars into it. 

I guess the question is, do you love clothes or what they do for you- and women in general? I love what they can do for me in terms of how I feel and project myself, how I present and show up to my days, how they can evoke a mood or occasion, I love dressing up! Always have. But I love what they can do for me more than material accumulation. 

Today, being Anzac day as I type, I wore a handcrafted Poppy brooch. I bring it out once a year, and tuck it away again that evening. It was made by a local lady many years ago, it has no monetary value, but it means a great deal to me. Who made it, the history and symbolism, and that when I pin it on, I am reminded throughout the day of the occasion, the sacrifice, and can feel the presence of my grandfather. 

Its now the following day, I wasn't feeling quite 100% so I had a quiet afternoon sorting out the gues room closet- from dozens of pairs of ballet shoes, a tangle of ballet stockings, dress ups, old school uniforms and a large (Growing ) pile of clothing items I have recently edited. Downstairs, I was still acutely aware of the giant leaning tower of Pisa-esqu stack of big glossy cookbooks I'd sorted to donate. So before my evening walk, I filled my car, drove to the local Goodwill/ Op shop/Charity shop, and donated the whole lot. 

It Felt SOOOO good. So freeing! Not only was it generally clutter on that they were items not serving us any more, but it was such a nice feeling to know that they were all quality pieces in good condition, that someone will be thrilled to stumble upon, give a new home to and hopefully treasre for as long as they need them. 

I now have a streamlined and organised guestroom closet, I know exactly what's in it, and I am even more certain I don't NEED anything else for a little while! (Other than cooler weather- all my winter coats are hanging in there too, waiting patiently.) 

Plus, I've ticked off all the tasks and jobs I was hoping to complete over the Easter break, leaving me feeling organised, in control, and energised. 

Perhaps tomorrow I need to do a bit of life admin and have a desk morning, so get my finances and appointments in order and plan the term ahead, ready for Monday. 

 Savoring Simple Daily Pleasures

As we approach the end of the school vacation, if I'm really honest, I wasn't looking forward to getting back into the "Daily grind" and all that comes with a busy family term-time schedule. 

However, Ive been reminded in a couple of instances this past week of not only how precious and fleting life is, but also it is what we make of it- how we choose to navigate though it.

So while I've thoroughly enjoyed the slower pace at home over the last fortnight, I have decided to choose to reframe some of the current givens and musts during this particular season of my life.

What can I learn and challenge myself with during my working day? How can I be as good as possible at my job? How can I show up daily for my colleagues as a happy, obliging, and professional person? How can I remain unaffected by stressful situations or any conflict in my place of work if it doesn't immediately involve me, steering clear of gossip?

When you change the way you look at things, things around you change.

I have just walked home from the local ANZAC service held annually outside the community hall. A moving ceremony in which we show gratitude, remembrance, honor, and support our communities and all the pillars and personalities that bond us all together. I have attended this service every year since we moved to the area, and know well, or am familiar with most of the faces surrounding the flagpole and wreaths to some degree, from babies to the very elderly.

 I reflected as we stood there in the warm watery sunshine, how fortunate I am to be part of such a special place. That we all have our family stories, memories, traumas, and challenges, yet here we are, in a show of solidarity to the fallen all those years ago. 

None of us know how long we have here- therefore we owe it to ourselves to live life to its fullest, be the best person we can be, love fiercely, and take care of our minds and bodies so that we give ourselves the best chance of remaining on earth with our loved ones for as long as we can. 

This is not intended to be gloomy- more to serve as a reminder, to cherish what we have, and strive for our dreams. But in doing so, endeavoring not to overlook today, what opportunities and gifts we already are so fortunate to have. 

I would dearly love to write full-time- as many of you know, my ultimate dream is to work from home on my books and take frequent walks with my dog. 

Where I am now in my life and my job is firmly on that pathway- if I choose to view it like that, its all helping to serve me and enable me.

 Without the work I do, I wouldn't know so many stood around the flagpole today. Most of my dearest friends I may not have had a chance to meet, and certainly being enveloped in this special community is something I truly treasure. 

Until our dreams and goals are realised, we mustn't overlook that it's likely where we are right now was only a dream to us 10, 15, maybe 20 years ago. To be a part of my community, to have raised a family here, to live in our beautiful home, and to feel the sense of belonging I do was a mere dream in my early 20's.  So while I eagerly anticipate the next chapter, I'm not skimming the current one. 

It's important we don't mistake success for happiness- the two are not the same at all. Happiness can only come from within. 

I am drawn to writing in a way that is hard to explain- I need to do it, I feel fulfilled when I do, and so thrilled and warm and glowy when I know something I have written has not only been read, but enjoyed or pondered upon. Perhaps even inspired or sparked a thought in a reader. 

If your passion doesn't serve people, it's not a purpose. Use your passion in the service of others, and it becomes a purpose. Jay Shetty

The quote above was such an incredible  Ah-ha moment for me. While I'm longing to have my books published and even to gain more readers here, the fact that I have touched some people means that it is a valid purpose; my readers want to read what I have to say as much as I want to write it for them. 

 Savoring Simple Daily Pleasures

While I admit, there is on the surface little to savor about Perimenopause, if we choose to arm ourselves with knowledge, keep ourselves informed, and talk openly to other women - of all stages of life but most especially those in the same life chapter as we are currently, there is plenty of positivity and comradeship to be found beyond the face value of a daunting topic. 

I am incredibly fortunate to have several amazing women in my life whom I am delighted to call close friends. As we are all mostly within a similar age range, we are supportive and understanding, sometimes without words needing to be spoken, and we know we get it. We have each other's backs. We also sound each other out regularly about different studies, new research, and our own personal struggles, as well as wins. 

I find that when one's mind is occupied with a particular topic, it seems to pop up everywhere and make its presence felt in the universe with constant nudging. These are the times we should not ignore but embrace and soak up the knowledge and experiences to better ourselves, help friends and family, and potentially enable us to guide others in the future. 

Over recent weeks, several podcasts and book publications have come into my sphere, most of which have been incredibly informative and insightful. So below I will link those resources for you and sum up at a surface level some of the key points and facts that have resonated with me too. We are all so very different, and our minds and bodies all cope in different ways- so this is a general overview and my opinion only. Something I find helpful may be of no value to you, and vice versa. But if we can be open and stay abreast of new findings and specialist advice, then boil it down to a basic level with our friends and supportive people, together, we can be more prepared. 

"An investment in Knowledge pays the best interest". Benjamin Franklin 

The podcasts below are SO incredibly informative and relatable. Not too much jargon or medical terminology and are genuinely put together to help women better understand the stages around perimenopause and how to strategize and cope, and importantly, UNDERSTAND why this is happening to their bodies. 

Oprah, Mel Robins, and Steven Bartlett (Aka Diary of a CEO)  are easy to listen to, and expertly ask the right questions about the hard topics. 

 https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/the-oprah-podcast/id1782960381?i=1000701667049

 https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/the-diary-of-a-ceo-with-steven-bartlett/id1291423644?i=1000682834405

 https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/the-mel-robbins-podcast/id1646101002?i=1000700967350

Published resources well worth a trip to your local book shop or library, or listening to on Audible while taking a walk are:

Next Level  Dr Stacy Sims

Dare I Say It: Everything I Wish I'd Known About Menopause: Watts, Naomi, Haver MD, Mary Claire: 9780593729038: Amazon.com: Books

Without getting into the specifics, as you can and should do your own research on the topic, below are the main takeaways for me that I have found surprising and enlightening. 

* Having fairly strictly followed an intermittent fasting- or to be more precise, time restricted eating- regimen over the last 5+ years, I was surprised and intrigued to learn that for my stage of life, IF (intermittent fasting) is not the best strategy for me. Now, to give it its dues- it did serve me well initially, and definitely helped reset and recondition my gut microbiome and assist in a weightloss and wellbeing journey. The advice now, is to fuel our bodies before a workout and within 30 minutes of waking. This is a huge change for me- especially as I have routinely observed fasted workouts....and my days start very early! I'm not hungry at 5am! 

But Dr Stacy Sims suggests a protein coffee, which is more doable at that hour. Prepare it the night before. I use a big ball jam jar- espresso shot, some milk of your choice, and a scoop of protein powder. Only add the protein to cool liquid, or it clumps. Leave in the fridge ready for the morning- I top up with a little filtered water and a handful of ice cubes- it's a decadent iced coffee essentially, but one that will help prepare and fuel your body to get the best out of your workout and all the effort you put in. It also helps to cap the rising cortisol we all have first thing in the morning, where my usual big glass of water followed by a strong black coffee was not doing me any favors.

* Creatine- I have been adding creatine supplements to my smoothies for a couple of years, but the science behind this for perimenopausal women is fascinating. And to get sufficient from our diets would involve a kilo of beef or several chicken breasts to get anywhere near the tiny scoop I use daily. 

* SIT training. Or Sprint Interval Training. My darling husband has been trying to convince me of the benefits of this for years, but now I've come across the science to back it up for women,  especially in my stage of life. So just recently, I have changed my running regimen to incorporate a slower run initially, then sprint training- running as fast as my legs will go for 30 seconds, then rest and recovery for 90 seconds, and doing this 5 times. It's so much more than just getting your heart rate up and has major health benefits. 

* Sleep. We all know it. But I do try to prioritise- I try for 8 hours a night. Mostly, I don't quite get there, but I have a good nighttime routine and at least shoot for 8.

*  L-Theanine - taken at night to help muscle recovery and relaxation. 

* Vitamin D- assists with bone health and mood regulation (!)

And two things I am working on continually-

* Learn that NO is a complete sentence- if you are over loaded, overwhelmed, or over tired. Say no. Prioritise that quiet evening and early night over a feeling of guilt about an (Over) commitment. 

*Communicate. All the amusing Memes in the world will not substitute for you taking the brave step to talk to your family, spouse, or nearest and dearest and let them in tell them what's going on, what you are going through, and how you feel. It's super hard, but you'll feel so much better, and so will they if they can get an understanding of the changes you are going through. Reach out. And if you feel it's right for you, talk to your doctor or healthcare professional. My GP is amazing and I'm so grateful. There's no shame in it. I am now on HRT in conjunction with one or two other medications, and I'm SOOOOOO much happier and better off for it. It's absolutely not right for everyone, but have the conversation. 

* And lastly, a la Mel Robins (Love her) LET THEM. And if you haven't read the book. Do. The Let Them Theory - Mel Robbins

I hope you found some helpful points in this week's Blog, and enjoy the resources linked. Let us know your stories on this journey. We are all here for each other. 

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

 I hung it on the line, with extra care and delicately positioned pegs due to its oh so fragile state, my thoughts wandered to the parallels of hanging onto items for sentimental reasons in your homes and closets. 

As the washing machine beeped, I was mid-way through a seasonal sort of my wardrobe, and at that moment I had in my hands an item I was truly only keeping due to the memories attached to it. 

Items that carry sentiments, memories or history are often the hardest to part with or declutter. 

I'm not suggesting for one minute you part with anything that has true sentimental value, family heirlooms or belongings that hold significant importance for you. I'm thinking of those cookbooks that haven't seen daylight in decades (Uh hemmm, I have a pile of twenty or so waiting to donate since my bookshelf tidy yesterday!)  or were a gift, or that sweater that had a hefty price tag but you don't wear as it itches, or those pants you bought as they'd be "perfect" for work and go with so much but you never reach for them, or the other pair that you've never got round to having hemmed so they are too long. 

At some point, its a good idea to take an objective look and be a little ruthless. If there are things you genuinely are not sure if you'll reach for, pop them in a storage bag out of sight- you could even date it, and if in 6 months, 12, at a (real) push if they are truly seasonal, if you don't miss them and retrieve them, its safe to say they can go. Likewise if there is an item you haven't worn in 12 months- you're probably not going to- add it to the "to go" pile. Try the hanger trick- turn all your hanger the wrong way, then as you wear items return them the right way- you'll soon see what you use and what's left untouched. 

I personally struggle with letting go of items in these 5 main areas-

1. Purchased on consignment but at such a big discount I know their original price tag is one I wouldn't usually have within my budget, therefore I feel I should hang onto it.

2. A gem I snaffled from a second hand shop which was priced ridiculously reasonably and worth considerably more.

3. Something that was a gift from someone I care about

4. An item passed down by a well meaning friend or family member that I don't have the heart to re home for fear of causing hurt or offence.

5. An item that hold precious memories, or reminds me of a special occasion or time in my life.

My logical wardrobe curator self can quantify these emotions and feelings as such-

1. That money is already spent, if the item is not serving you and you don't reach for it or its of no use- let it go.

2. As I've talked about in past blog posts, just because its a bargain doesn't mean you require it- I really struggle with this one, and have learned the hard way with lovely pieces purchased over the years for a steal that just hang there untouched until they finally make the edit to be re homed. 

3. This is a hard one, and I'm very sentimental naturally- I try to view this from a Marie Kondo perspective as I really struggle with the idea of causing someone I care about feeling rejected or hurt -

"The person buying the gift has brought it to you to show their love and appreciation for you- once you have received it with gratitude that purpose is complete. the very last thing they would have wanted would you to feel any burden from their gift" Marie Kondo

Truly, I am the Mummy who still has all the notes to fairies and my daughters baby teeth tucked away- not to mention items from my grandparents, and cards from my mother and father. I also still harbor a little hurt from years past knowing gifts I have given have not been cherished or particularly well received despite the good intentions and love behind them. But deep down, this quote makes absolute sense. 

4. This might be something a friend thoughtfully passed on as they no longer used or required it, or a hand me down for a child from a cousin or neighbor, or an item another person treasured and cared for yet it doesn't hold the same use or value to you other than their projection of that. Occasionally, in their need to declutter and organize, friends and family find a new home for their unwanted treasures in you- passing on their guilt in a way, and we feel obliged to hang on to it too- knowing it means something important to them- even afraid perhaps if WE decide to re home it, they may discover us and be doubly offended.  This is super hard when you know which ever way you play it we may cause hurt or offence, so we tend to just bundle them into the back of a closet or wardrobe. I have at least 2 such items I can think of as I sit here typing. On the flip side, I try not to project that on friends or family with items I pass on- once its left my possession, I feel lifted and am happy for it to find a new purpose elsewhere. 

5. And lastly, my biggest hurdle. And I certainly don't advocate for culling every last bit of sentiments you have stored away- even if it very rarely gets looked at. In our guest room closet hanging side by side are both my mothers and my wedding dresses. in that same closet is a teeny tiny tutu in black and yellow with buzzy bee wings- a first ballet show at 3 years old. These are not going anywhere. But I have learned for items with less sentimental weight and importance, that sometimes taking a photo is sufficient- like the boxes of Kindy art we sorted through when we moved a few years ago. Keep some by all means, but don't be weighed down by it or store for decades. 

When my mother emigrated she had a container of all my belongings shipped to me- all SORTS of bits and pieces, including some huge oil paintings form my degree, a dolls house, and even some of my school books. While I kept some important pieces- certainly the 2 family dolls houses and some of my childhood favorite books, and we hung one or two of mu works up on our walls- which it was fun to re discover as we unpacked and unwrapped the various crates- much of it I had no use for- some even no memory of- in my new life the other side of the world.  I felt awful getting rid of some of those items that my mother had packed up and paid to ship to me- but her thoughts on it were that they weren't her belongings to sort through-it wasn't her decision to decide what I should keep to let go. 

When she moved home again fairy recently, she involved me in much of the sorting process, as she was acutely aware that she's not getting any younger, and she didn't want to leave me with a huge burden of belongings I didn't know what to do with and that would add to my grief to make decisions over incase It was something she may have treasured. 

I reflect on that sentiment from time to time- who am I saving these things for? Does it serve me or add to my clutter or a burden later in life. 

That pajama top is here to say, that's for sure. 

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

It's too easy to feel a little guilty or selfish when you care about how you look. I assure you, you needn't feel either of those things—in fact, you shouldn't. 

If you are on a health and wellness journey or want to change your body shape or lose some weight, you'd most likely start by eating well, being conscious of what you're putting into your body, and moving it regularly. 

If you want to feel good about yourself BEFORE you lose the weight or hit a goal of some kind, it's time to step out of the drab, baggy oversized clothing and dress in a way that makes you feel good. The better you feel, the more motivated you'll become and the better you'll do.

Never mind waiting to go shopping or update you wardrobe until you are your goal size or weight, if you take the time and dress to feel good now, you’re more likely to put your self on the right trajectory to reach that goal- Clothes are a better catalyst to reaching a goal than they are a reward. If you feel good and confident and fit in your gym clothes or your smart, well-fitted professional pants, you are far more likely to want to reach that goal and put yourself in the right headspace to achieve it. Imagine rocking up to workout in an old band tee-shirt and baggy stained swet pants and feeling like you can give it 100%, like you are the fit person you want to be. It's far easier to visualise and far more motivating if you are in clothes that make you look and feel good already. Just like the tailored understated corporate pants, paired with a simple crisp shirt and a leather belt- understated professionalism- or the slightly too loud blouse you got on special that isn’t quite your colour and doesn’t fit quite right so you keep tugging at it though the interview for the dream job in a top company- which will make you feel confident and grow an inch taller just because you feel your best in it- regardless of your size or shape. 

Dress like the person you want to be and have the habits you want to have - project yourself into that personality and lifestyle using clothing as a tool.

Filling up your closet is not the same as building a wardrobe. We need to be intentional with what we choose to occupy space in our wardrobe, and only permit items you know look good on you, fit well, and let your personality and personal style shine through. 

Become a hunter, not a gatherer- seek out that particular item you know there is a gap for, which will pair with multiple items you already have. As opposed to buying something on a whim as its a good deal but actually when you get it home there really very little it can work with, so it just sits there, taking up valuable closet real estate and doing you no favour’s in the meantime and has served no other purpose than to empty your account a little more. 

That's not to say you need to spend a fortune or have an unlimited budget- far from it. We can get creative with how and where we spend on items and become practiced at spotting a quality bargain or consignment gem that we have a use for and a requirement for. Value is subjective- it's how important an item is to you and how it makes you feel, regardless of the price tag. 

I heard an idea for a great test to figure out if you are in a style rut or just successfully honing your true style…..

Imagine you were to phone a friend right now and suggest you meet for coffee in 15 minutes, and ask that friend to guess what they think you'd most likely be wearing. 

If they pretty much guess down to the type of hair tie you'll be wearing - you might want to reflect on that predictability and find strategies to lift your self out of the rut. If they guess the general ethos- as in, probably a blazer, maybe ballet flats and likely an accent of a colour- that's more of a style than a predictable rut. and you can pat yourself on your stylish back for that. 

But don't be complacent - regularly evaluate and check pieces in your wardrobe for style, fit, wear, and usage. 

I can't wait to get stuck into mine over the next week now that our seasons are really turning, and I'm looking forward to having a refresh and making some space- and also donating or even selling a few items I'm just not getting use out of. 

Such a satistying task, and then to walk back into your beautifully curated boutique-esqu wardrobe afterwards- dreamy. 

 Savoring Simple Daily Pleasures

I thought it was about time to introduce myself properly. It's been a while now, and I know many of you follow the corresponding Instagram account and regularly read the weekly blog. 

 I felt it was time to stop hiding behind the lens as such and connect with you, my lovely readers, on a more personal level. 

So, this is me. 

Wife to an amazing husband- the love of my life- and mother to 2 teenage girls. British born, living in New Zealand, and nudging my late forties. 

Our home is in Auckland but right out of the city and nestled in acres of native bush and coastline. 

I can honestly say I have never felt more grounded, contented, and truly grateful to live the life I am privileged to be living right now. And its certainly not without its bumps and challenges! People talk of glow-ups, but I think over the past few years, I have experienced a glow -within. I am fitter and stronger now than in my 20's, have the confidence that comes with experience to know who I am and what I value, and I am incredibly blessed to have a circle of amazing women I'm privileged to call friends. 

As our daughters have grown up, so too, I think, have I. I am more assured in my beliefs, knowledge, and capabilities. More confident in my true person and personal style and have a clear path I wish to follow in terms of making a living and following my passions. Of being the person I want to show up as in my daily life. 

I work full time, and while I enjoy what I do, my passion lies in writing. I am a total homebody, enjoying decorating, home making, cooking, entertaining, even cleaning, gardening, and having peace and quiet here in my sanctuary. I adore my two cats, and one day I dream of being a doggy mama too. 

I am a huge believer in longevity, and the route to that is a good diet and moving your body daily. I am mindful of what I eat but enjoy treats regularly, and I partake in at least one form of exercise every day without fail. Walking is my happy, mindful place, and most days I am fortunate enough to be able to walk to my work. 

My interests are Golf, reading, writing, ballet, walking, running, style, decor, food, and cooking. While I am (I think) an HSP and probably an extroverted introvert- loving my quiet time alone at home or on my walks- I love people and so enjoy the contact my job affords me with young children and adults. 

So, in the hope this doesn't sound like a CV or pen pall letter, I'll "sign off" here. 

I just felt it was time you knew a little about me as you see and enjoy so much of my daily life already. 

Everyday contentment is just that, its finding your own personal way to living a life of contentment each day- this isn't always about joy, or fun, style or excitement or the perfect day- its about appreciating everyitng you do have already, savouring those joyous and beautiful moments, and being grounded enough to step back when things are a little bumpy to reflect and take something from the situation. To hopefully learn from it. Its about making time every day to pause and notice the abundant beauty around and within you, and showing up as the best version of yourself each day. 

Gratitude is not about what you have; its about truly valuing what you have.

Its about designing an everyday life that you love, because that's where you will reside for most of your days.

Welcome. 

It has taken much thought and consideration to take the plunge and become more than a blog title or handle- to allow myself to be a little vulnerable and introduce myself fully. A real person with a family, friends, and feelings. 

I'd love to hear from you. 

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

A thought to ponder;

Finding something on sale, on clearance, or with a big discount is sorely tempting. A $10 rack is an undeniable thrill, but don't be fooled.

No price, high end or bargain basement, will allow anything to fit you better, flatter you more, or make you want to wear it or get more use out of it. 

Bargains can be false economy and lead to wardrobe clutter. 

Intentionality

Creating an intentional wardrobe isn't only about the clothes within it; it's about gathering a collection that speaks to you, supports your lifestyle, reflects your personality and values, and makes getting ready for each day, whatever it may bring, effortless. 

Regardless of if your aim is to curate a streamlined capsule wardrobe, seasonal wardrobes, or just to have your clothing arranged so beautifully that picking out your outfit is like stepping into your very own boutique each morning. Adding impulse items from sale racks simply because of their price is ultimarlytly going to lead you to feeling cluttered, and disconnected fromyour true personal style. 

Having a wardrobe that works for you and supports your style rather than one that adds stress of confusion.

We want our clothing to make us feel confident and positive and to serve us well and effortlessly in our daily lives. 

A key example if when you find something that works perfectly for you- its worth considering buying mutiples. I have recently purchased 2 new pairs of the Sam Edelman GiGi tee strap sandals that I've worn faithfully each summer for over 6 years now-  they are so versatile- for super hot summer through to early autumn and late spring - and in their natural almond patient can work with almost any colour. As they are so minimal in terms of foot coverage they also pair equally well with a floaty summer dress as a pair of tailored pants or shorts.   I branched out this year on two pairs as I needed to order from Nordstrom with a shipping cost incurred - so I purchase the old faithful almond patient and in addition a leopard skin pair. (love a bit of leopard!) 

It was around mid morning this past Tuesday it occurred to me: I had had a busy productive morning at home- chores/ lunches/ hanging laundry/ making beds, then walked the 2km to work, where I’m Mostly on my feet, that I was wearing brand new footwear that was so comfortable I’d forgotten! 

These were well worth investing in and even paying the shipping as I knew they’d fit and I’d get much use out of them.

 However, I have most certainly made the error in the (recent ) past of an impulse by driven by a great discount or price and almost always live to regret it. 

While it’s great to have a list of items you need to fill gaps or update in your wardrobe- so that when you come across that something you can try it on objectively and make and informed choice as to if it meets your requirements, an impulse buy of something not remotely on your radar, based solely on its price point, is usually a poor one. 

For example I was thrilled to pick up some black tapered leg crepe-ish pants in Melbourne recently as they were on my list of potential buys. I’m actually wearing them today- but I have a few pieces in my wardrobe which are niggling at me- I know I purchased them in haste with the little rush of the thrill finding a bargain -but in truth, I don’t think I’ll get much- if any- wear from them. Maybe they are ill fitting as they were purchased on line without trying on, perhaps they are a colour that Doreen’s suit me or work with my wardrobe palette, or simply just not me-they don’t make me feel good. And life’s too short to not enjoy wearing the clothes you choose for yourself! 

So while it is a thrill to find a treasure-be it from an opportunity shop/ second hand/ good will or on consignment or just a regular sale in store or on line: try to be mindful about what will actually serve you, comply with your current wardrobe and fit with other pieces- and your unique body. 

A bargain won’t necessarily make it fit better or flatter you- but it may weigh on you as clutter…. 

Next time you have a (hopefully regular) editing and organisational session- just down what gaps you need to fill and keep it handy- I keep mine in my phone so if I’m out and about I can refer to it. And if you’re too nervous to ruthlessly cull- pop any questionables into a bag and tuck it away. If you don’t reach for any of the items during the next month or appropriate season- it’s time to let them go and make space for what you can use, and enjoy!