Fresh Cut Flowers Add Cheer to Winter Months

 Creating Vignettes With Fresh Flowers

I'm always looking for ways to bring cheerfulness to the winter months and one way I have found to do that is to bring fresh cut flowers into my home. I picked out these gorgeous blooms during a trip to the grocery store and aren't they beautiful and vibrant colors?!

I knew that I wanted to find some unique containers to use for arranging these flowers. So, I went through my cabinets and found a clear, rectangular short vase and a pretty small ceramic teapot that is itself covered in flowers. Because these containers were small and short I had to cut the long stems of my flowers in order to make them fit well. 

I just love to get not one but two flower arrangements from one bouquet of flowers and that was exactly what I was able to do! I tried to divide the colors equally between the clear vase and the teapot for the best color effect. If anyone knows what those little salmon colored tomato-like flowers are in the teapot let me know. I haven't seen them in bouquets before and they are unique and pretty. 

I was able to display my flower arrangements in two different locations in my living room. This one is on the side table and adds a colorful touch to the snowmen, snowglobe and other decor on the table. 

And my little teapot arrangement fits right in with the eclectic items on our mantel. You can see we like to display items that are either from nature or reflect nature so flowers are just perfect with everything else. 

Studies have shown that flowers have a positive effect on both mood and emotional health. So, I am not surprised that bringing fresh flowers into my home is a true spirit lifter for me. Perhaps it can be for you, as well. Stopping to smell the roses (or carnations or....) can bring a bright spot to any day. Take a look at the fresh flowers the next time you are out at the grocery store or another place that sells fresh flowers and indulge yourself. Let me know if it lifts your spirits and if you like my arrangements today. 

Until Next Time,

Debbie

In Praise of Being Introverted in A Pandemic World

 In Praise Of Introversion

A great book to read about being an introvert

Is it possible that being introverted has helped me through this time of a world-wide pandemic? I believe it has. As an introvert, needing to stay at home more has not seemed as daunting to me as it has to friends and family who are more extroverted by nature. But, even being introverted, I am looking forward to the time when life will become more normal again. Still, staying home to stay safe has given me ample time to read more, reflect more and write more-all things that introverts tend to value. 

I didn't know until recently that there is a World Introvert Day and it is each year on January 2nd. So, I'm a week late in celebrating but that's ok. I've known for a long time that I'm an introvert and have many of the textbook traits of introverts such as getting tired-out from social interaction and needing time to recharge by being alone. I'm also not a fan of big parties and prefer smaller groups of friends when I socialize. If I am in a new situation I tend to stand back and observe before joining in or speaking out and that has caused many folks over the years to misunderstand me, thinking I was being snobby or overly quiet or just not much fun to be around. And I much prefer to work alone than in groups. Now that I'm retired this isn't such an issue anymore although groups can't be avoided entirely. The world tends to value extroverted traits such as being social, talking a lot and group problem solving rather than an individual working alone. 

I began to learn more about my introverted self when I was taking courses to add on the academically-intellectually-gifted certification that allowed me to become an AIG Specialist. More recently, I have enjoyed getting articles from introvertdear.com which offers a lot of info about what being an introvert means. Click on the link and you will find a plethora of articles including this one on the definition of being an introvert. Learning about introversion came to me later in my career and I found learning more about myself very helpful. I had always been described as "quiet" and always knew I liked time to myself. I found it life affirming to learn more about what introversion means. 

For any extroverts reading this post, please understand that being an introvert is not "better" than being an extrovert and vice-versa. Psychologists believe that we are born as either an introvert or an extrovert and we have our particular introvert/extrovert traits for life. Those traits do impact how each of us like to live our lives both personally and professionally. So, in my opinion, it's very helpful to understand our introverted or extroverted selves. And since many of the extroverted traits-such as being social and outgoing and enjoying working in groups-is valued in the school and workplace, it is important to celebrate and value introverts as well. 

Even as a child I can remember being introverted. Which makes sense as I was born with particular introverted traits. I fully remember coming home exhausted from all of the social interaction at school and needing to eat a snack, sit by myself and think over the events and interactions of the day in seclusion. Although I had friends and fully enjoyed being with them, I always needed alone time to recharge from these social times. As a small child I loved playing alone outside or in my bedroom and invented all sorts of imaginary friends and adventures. I loved reading at an early age and was always content to sit quietly and read. When I was a teenager I enjoyed participating in all of the usual teenage activities with friends but found that I needed time alone afterward to recharge from all the social interaction. 

Later, as an adult, I carried these same traits into first college life and then the professional settings of teaching. As you might imagine, the educational setting of public school greatly valued teachers working together in "teams" writing curriculum in groups, planning lessons together and encouraging our students to work together in the classroom in groups to problem solve. Early on in my career I noticed students who, like me, shied away from group work and preferred to learn on their own as individuals. While I learned many ways over my career to work and teach in extroverted settings, I also valued my own individualism as a teacher and also tried to respect the students who preferred working alone, as well. It was always a bit of a tightrope walk to get through my professional life as an introvert and most days I came home exhausted from all of the interaction that was required during the work day that went beyond simply teaching my students. Due to this, I tried to keep my evenings and weekends free from lots of social engagements because that time was needed for me to unwind and recharge for the coming week of work. I watched other friends teach all day and then go to meetings or social events in the evenings and feel energized by those events. But not me. Going to more things in the evenings that called on me to be social after a long day at work was very draining. Now, in retirement, I have more free time and am better able to cope and, before Covid, I even found myself looking for more opportunities for social interaction. But during my work life those down times were truly necessary and precious. 

Introverts tend to be given many labels such as being "quiet" or "shy." The thing is, as an introvert it takes me longer to feel comfortable letting my true self show when I first meet someone. That means I may stand back and just observe for awhile. I may not speak out as much for awhile. But, once I get to know someone I can be just as loud and talkative as an extroverted person. It just takes awhile. And, I have to feel very safe in a social situation before I share lots of information about myself. Introverts tend to prefer a close group of a few friends rather than a large group of lots of friends. And that pretty much describes me throughout my whole life. 

Introverts can be quieter, thoughtful people who seek meaning in their lives. They tend to be problem solvers who think long and hard before expressing themselves to others. They can have rich inner lives that are full of creative and meaningful ideas. Introverts have so much to offer the world. So do extroverts. But often times it is the extroverts who get noticed over the introverts because extroverts tend to talk more and be louder in what they voice. Because extroverts tend to be more assertive and frequently are first to offer ideas and opinions they are often more "heard" than introverts who take time to think and ponder before offering ideas and opinions. Both groups are important to our world. But I must say that as an introvert, I am happy to find that I am not alone since it is believed that 30-50% of the population are introverts. So, how can we not celebrate?!

Are you an introvert or an extrovert? What has been your experience as an introvert or an extrovert? If you are an introvert, can you relate to the definitions? Do leave a comment. I love hearing from my readers!

Living In A Snow Globe World

 Life Outside My Window

The view outside my window is very snowy today. In fact, it is like living inside a snow globe! We have at least four inches with more expected before midnight, so my world today is inside where it is warm and cozy. After experiencing a long and busy week, this kind of day is most welcome.

Living inside a snow globe basically gives you one view of the world. It is easy to think that this is the view everyone is experiencing. But, that is not the case. 

There are snow people of all shapes and sizes outside the snow globe. Some have brooms which makes sweeping their paths easier. But others do not. Hopefully, the snow people who own brooms will help out the others. 

“For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater" Isaiah 55:10

Until Next Time,

Debbie

Sunday Drive To Burnsville North Carolina

A Quiet And Quaint Little Town

Welcome to the quaint and lovely town of Burnsville, North Carolina. This is where we took our Sunday drive today and enjoyed snapping some photos on the village green. The Christmas decorations were still up and I'm so glad as it added to the photos and also our enjoyment. 

I'm always reminded of the fictional villages of Fairacre and Thrush Green whenever I visit little towns like this. Dora Saint (Miss Read) structured those villages around a green area in the middle of town and all of the houses and businesses fanned out in every direction just like they do here in Burnsville. You can see the Nu-Wray Inn in this picture which is an historic inn that I would love to go into some day. I have read that Thomas Wolfe, Christopher Reeves and Elvis Presley all stayed at this inn. 

Like many towns of similar size, this one is filled with beautiful old buildings which are no longer used for their original intent. This is the old Yancey County Public Library building. It reminds me of the old Carnegie Library in my hometown which now sits unused. These buildings are so historic and beautiful and I wish they could still be used as libraries. I guess that I am not of the opinion that newer is better!

I really like the wreaths and red ribbon on the lamp posts on the green. If it hadn't been so cold today, I wouldn't have minded just sitting on the green and taking it all in. But, it was bitter today and after snapping several photos I headed back to the warmth of the car while The Mr. continued his photography without me. Guess I'm a wimp!

This is a statue of Otway Burns for whom the town of Burnsville is named. He was a soldier in the War of 1812. 

A view of the main street of downtown. Several years ago I would travel here every week to play in a local orchestra. It was a long drive to make in all types of weather and I was still teaching school at the time, as well, so I eventually gave up the orchestra. It was always fun to come to this little town, though. 

I'll close this post with a final picture of the pretty lights on this tree on the green facing The Nu-Wray Inn. We didn't get to see the lights at night but I'm sure they are beautiful! It was a lovely Sunday drive and I enjoyed getting to see the sights of Burnsville once again. 

Until Next Time,

Debbie

How To Wear A Summer Dress In Winter and A New Year's Video

 Can You Wear Summer Dresses In Winter?

I totally believe you can wear summer dresses in the winter! In fact, there is no way I could have waited until Spring or Summer to style this pretty dress that The Mr. gave me for Christmas (with a little help picking it out by yours truly!).

When I saw the pretty blues, purples, greens and whites in this dress I thought this was one of the loveliest dresses I had seen in a long while. And yes, the colors lend themselves to Spring and Summer. But with a few additions the dress works well for Winter, as well.

Adding a layer underneath was the first step in turning this dress into a winter dress. I chose a hot pink turtleneck to add not only a layer of warmth but to also pull out the fuschia colors of the dress. 

And then, adding a long black cardigan was the next step. The colors just pop under the black, don't you think? 

Black leggings are a great addition for leg warmth. You know I have embraced the pants/leggings with dresses look as a way to style my dresses year round. I'm enjoying wearing my dresses more. Loving the look with my Mary Jane Skechers, also. 

They were a Poshmark find and I'm wearing them frequently. So glad I found them. The cloth weaving is very comfortable and the scalloped edges on the straps add such a stylish touch. 

I even felt like adding jewelry! I went for a vintage inspired look with the chunky blue and silver necklace and vintage blue post earrings that belonged originally to my Mom. You can just see a hint of the earrings but I assure you I am wearing them! This outfit makes me feel happy and I am still enjoying wearing it as I write this. It may see me through the New Year this evening! I've mentioned this before but I think it bears repeating. Fashion should be fun and should make us feel good. This outfit definitely does that. There may be parts of it that you like and parts that you don't. And that is OK. The great thing about style is that everyone can make their own style. I hope that you will go to your closet and look for an outfit that makes you feel happy when you wear it. Put it on and feel good! 

My wish for you is to have a wonderful end to 2020 and a beautiful 2021 with only good things happening in your life! With that in mind, take a moment to view this short video from me to you!

Happy New Year!

Debbie

Feel Like Shopping?

long sleeve dress by DB Moon (Amazon) Lots of pattern/color choices!

Skecher Mary Jane Shoes (DSW) I got mine from Poshmark. I like the tan ones, though!

2020 Blog Recap and My 2021 Word For The Year

Finishing Out The Year and Looking Forward 

Hello everyone!  Today's post is dedicated to recapping some of my favorite posts and images from the blog from this past year and also sharing my new "word for the year" for 2021. Hope you all had a great Christmas day and enjoy this post! 

This pic from my post on adding the color blue to outfits certainly was my most visited post of the year with 2,419 views. Blue with black is a great color combo and I love this outfit each time I see it. Definitely look in your closet and find some blue and black clothing items to wear together! I think you will like the result!

Finding joy during isolation was another very popular post. It's been a challenge to find joy this past year, in my honest opinion, but I have certainly given it a go each day! Looking for joy in simple things works best for me; things like pretty flowers such as the pansies in the above pic, enjoying beautiful scenery,

reading books and making music have given me great joy during this pandemic. And, as always, my faith gives me joy and spending time in prayer and scripture reading and times of devotion have been very important. When 2020 first began and we were just starting to hear about Covid-19 I don't think any of us realized what this year would bring. And what we are still dealing with even as 2021 is almost here. So, finding joy is still part of my daily quest and even after the pandemic has passed I will continue to look for joy in all the ways possible. 

Sadly, this was the year when my international collaboration with "Match Made In Seven" came to an end. I was a bit surprised when it ended and truly enjoyed the fun collaboration and monthly challenges that caused me to think outside of the box when it comes to fashion. I think I grew a bit with my sense of fashion during my time with this group and I am grateful for having had this opportunity. I now feel more confidant that I can be a little different and bolder with my fashion choices while retaining the classic styles that I love to wear. Sometimes, a little challenge to our fashion styling can be a good thing!

Of course, it goes without saying that anytime Cassie makes an appearance in my posts the pageviews go up!  Cassie and Garden appeared together in their first cat detectives installment and worked together to solve the great pencil mystery. Cassie has assured me that she and Garden would be interested in a second detective installment so look for that on the blog in the coming year. With two cats who are sleuths, you know my house rocks with excitement all year round!

This year has found me shopping my closet a lot more looking for go-togethers to create interesting outfits. My post on styling denim with white garnered lots of reader interest and posts on shopping my closet in general were also popular. I think readers enjoy seeing how I put outfits together and I have, out of necessity, done that frequently this year using what I already own. As a blogger, I am amazed at how other bloggers are able to style new clothing in every single post. I have neither the desire, nor the money, to do that kind of thing. For me, using what I own and having fun matching items together in new ways is a challenge that I enjoy. Of course, I enjoy shopping as much as the next person, I won't deny that, and I have used online shopping more this year than ever before. Adding a few new items along the way adds to the fun of styling fashion for my readers. I believe that playing dress-up is not just for little girls. "Big girls" can enjoy dressing up too!

Due not only to Covid isolation but also to The Mr.'s retirement, we found ourselves staying home a lot more this past year and used this time to accomplish some big house projects. One such project was the rebuilding of our stairway banisters. The Mr. removed the old railing and built in the new including finishing the wood and adding the gorgeous metal balustrades. I love the swirly filigree on the balustrades! So pretty. 

We also completed some major driveway work during the year which included replacing a culvert and adding on to our driveway. We hired experts for this, of course, and they did a great job. Every time it rains hard I am so thankful that we no longer need to worry about our driveway washing out due to our old cement culvert getting jammed up with debris. Such a huge blessing to have this taken care of! 

While in years past, I have written specific devotional posts, this year I found myself incorporating scripture and devotional thought into posts about other topics. I didn't really plan on doing this, but it seemed to just organically evolve that way during the year. I would be interested in hearing your thoughts on what you prefer as readers. Do you prefer separate devotional posts or do you prefer the incorporation of scripture and devotional thought into a post that contains other topics? While my blog is definitely about my personal styling of life it is also good to know what my readers are interested in reading. 

If you are a regular reader, you may have noticed that I have posted less frequently this year. In all honesty, there have been times this year when I have felt that, as a blogger, I just didn't have much to say. Part of that may be that this year has been full of so much negativity with not only the pandemic but also political issues that I didn't really want to bring into the blog, even though I have strong opinions on many issues. And staying in the house so much due to concerns about catching the virus meant I just didn't have lots of news. I haven't traveled and have eaten out very little. Shopping has been mostly online and I didn't think you would be interested in hearing about my trips to the grocery store! I shared a few outings with the Mr. to take drives or go on a hike and that garnered some reader interest. But, on the whole, I found my posts happening farther and farther apart because I simply didn't have much to share. This past year has been tough on everybody and I personally have had several times throughout the year when I felt like enough was enough! But, if this year has taught me anything, it is that I need to be grateful for all of the little things in life that I have taken for granted over the years. And, yeah, I've learned that they are not so little. Things like giving and receiving hugs from family and friends; being able to actually SEE family and friends whenever I want; worshiping inside a sanctuary with my church family; walking, without fear, into a store to shop; eating, without fear, inside a restaurant; seeing the smile on someone's face because you can actually see their face; and most of all, not feeling fearful every time I go somewhere. It's going to feel HUGE, in my opinion, when we reach the point where we can go places without a mask on. In fact, it may feel strange because we have become so used to it. But, I can tell you this, I won't take seeing people's faces for granted ever again. Sometimes, we don't know what we have until we no longer have it. And that is what 2020 has taught me. So, with that thought in mind, let's move on to my "perfect word" for the year 2021. 

In 2021, I want to aspire to live with intention. Because I'm imperfect I give myself permission to mess up, but I'm still going to really give it a try. Living with intention means living life "on purpose" and living with "an aim or a plan" in mind. This means I won't just let life happen around me but I will actively participate in that life. You may be thinking, "but isn't that what we always do with life? Well, I'm not sure. Staying at home so much this year has given me time to think. And, sometimes I think that it is very easy to let life just happen without really having a plan or purpose in mind. Living life with intention may take a little more work. It means really giving thought to how I want to approach styling my life. It means asking myself some thoughtful questions as I go about my daily activities. Questions like: What objectives do I want to complete during this flute lesson? How do I want to eat today to maintain good health? How do I want friends and family to feel after I visit with them? And, how do I want to feel after visiting with them? How does God want me to serve Him this day? These are just a few questions that will crop up as I seek to style life with intention. I have a feeling that living with intention will have much to teach me in the coming year. Living with intention will not be about my controlling life or life controlling me. It will be about being thoughtful about life with God leading me along the way. I hope that you will continue to be along for the ride as I seek to live with intention in 2021!

You know that I love comments so I ask that you leave one. Let me know what you have enjoyed this past year on the blog and what you would like to read more of in the future. Let me know if you chose a perfect word for your year and what your thoughts are about living with intention. I can't wait to read your thoughts!

Until Next Time,

Debbie

Wishing My Readers A Merry Christmas!

Christmas Wishes Coming Your Way

My little snowman friend and I would like to wish all of my wonderful readers a very Merry Christmas! How is it possible that we are only 4 days from this most wonderful holiday? Time seems to be passing by so quickly and I hope and pray that all of my readers are healthy and enjoying good times safely. 

My activities this Christmas season have been few. I mailed gifts to my family and The Mr. and I will celebrate quietly here at home on Christmas Day with a visit to his mother, who has been in our "bubble," at some point during the day. 

Tonight, I enjoyed an outdoor socially distanced gift exchange with my women's group and earlier today an outdoor socially distanced chat with my friend, Sharon. It's been a good day. I am happy that vaccines are getting out in our country and look forward to when it is "our turn" so The Mr. and I can get ours. 

Next week, I will be sharing a bit of a recap from the blog and will be looking towards 2021 which will include my new "word for the year." I hope you will join me then. 

Until then, have a wonderful week and a most blessed Christmas Day! I am so grateful to count my readers among my friends. 

Merry Christmas!

Debbie