Shannon Ables's Blog, page 316
September 16, 2015
Word of the Week: No. 17
~Click below for pronunciation:
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~WORDS OF THE WEEK from the Archives:
Image vis Town & Country UK
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September 15, 2015
Outfit of the Week: Grey & Beautiful
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~Theory silk georgette layered top~
~J. Brand high rise skinny jeans~
~Dune London ‘Ottie’ Ankle Bootie~
~Coach ‘Crosby’ Colorblock tote~
~OUTFITS OF THE WEEK from the Archives:
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Style Inspiration: NYFW & Chic Style
The tail-end of NYFW is upon us before the fashion elite move to London, but before they do, a few glimpses at the style captured on the street in the Big Apple. From Lauren Santo Domingo (founder of Moda Operandi) as seen above to Jenna Lyons of J.Crew below, the style is simple and chic with a touch a personality. I have also included a few other images that simply piqued my interest as inspiration moving into the fall season. Enjoy and be inspired!
~STYLE INSPIRATION POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES:
~NYFW Street Style Spring 2014
Images: (0) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (All images from NYFW Spring 2016 from Phil Oh for Vogue)
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September 14, 2015
The Benefits of a Broad Perspective
“In all affairs it’s a healthy thing now and then to hang a question mark on the things you have long taken for granted.”
― Bertrand Russell
~The Simple Sophisticate, episode #61
How we view the world, our perception of the world we live in, has an immense influence on our attitude, our mood and ultimately the energy we put out into the world.
Think about how our eyes function for a moment. When the environment we are in is not full of enough light, our pupils dilate to bring in more light enabling us to see more clearly, and when we become overwhelmed with light, our pupils contract to protect themselves.
Believe it or not, the broader our perspective, which is defined as “A mental view, a cognitive orientation, a way of seeing a situation or a scene”, the more truth we bring into our lives, reduces our ignorance and enriches our lives overall. However, much like being overwhelmed with excess light, when we are exposed to a tremendous amount of new ideas that are foreign to us, it is natural to want to shun diving into the new ways of thinking because it is unknown. In such a moment, many people return to their comfort zone, their safe place and shut out the light, or in this case new ideas and perspectives.
However, there are many benefits to opening our eyes to varying perspectives which will then broaden our own perspective. While there is no guarantee it will change our minds, at the very least, it will keep us informed and aware, so we can better navigate and interact civilly and respectfully with others.
Let’s take a look at the benefits of having a broad perspective.
1.Strengthen business relations
If you are involved in business in any way, you already know what I’m about to share. In order to have a successful business, you need to know your customer, you need to know what they are looking for, why they are looking for it and how to best meet their needs. The only way to figure this out, is to step into their shoes, see life from their perspective, in their culture. If you can see the world through their eyes, even if you’ve never experienced their way of life first-hand, you will be far more successful bringing them the product or service they might seek on a regular basis which ultimately strengthens your business.
2.Greater innovation
When we open our minds to new ways of thinking, whether by working with others who have different experiences or come from different cultures or backgrounds or by simply reading and gaining new knowledge that opens up a new world of ideas to us, the creativity is sparked and can ignite into some of the most unexpected innovations.
3. Increased understanding
One of the greatest gifts of travel is the broadening of our perspectives. Spending time in another culture, we discover that there are many alternate ways to live life well. When we recognize this life truth, we can begin to increase our understanding when it comes to why people choose the life paths they choose. Not everyone will choose a path that is similar to ours or believe that the best life is how we see it.
4. Increased tolerance
Continuing on from #3, when we come to understand how and why others live their lives, even if it is not the path we have chosen, our tolerance increases because we refrain from making ignorant assumptions that can be destructive. It is when we refrain from judging others’ decisions about how to live their live and instead celebrate our differences that civility in society improves. There is no one way to live a fulfilling life, and such a realization can be quite liberating.
5. Obliterate stereotypes
When we base our understanding of cultures or ethnicities other than our own on what is portrayed on television or uttered by ignorant others in our lives, we establish in our mind stereotypes that can stand in the way of seeing the world as it actually exists. By definition, a stereotype is incorrect, oversimplified and fixed, and as we know, each of us as individuals is always evolving, growing and changing. Once we begin to introduce ourselves to new people and difference experiences and ways of living, we begin to see the error in hanging on to stereotypes.
6. Less violence
Hurt people hurt people is a common refrain, but if one of the person’s involved in a potential altercation is aware of this truth, what may have turned into a violent situation can actually be mitigated. The handful of times in my life when someone has been aggressive toward me with their words or deeds, I have come to realize after stepping away from the situation, that their anger had nothing to do with me. So by not engaging, I eliminated anymore hurt and realized they need to choose to help themselves, but I couldn’t do that for them. The key though is each of us. If we broaden our perspective to see beyond ourselves, we can at the very least, prevent something negative from happening, and at the very best, provide comfort to someone most likely needs it more than they realize.
7. Strengthen relationships
Whether it is a disagreement with our partners, someone at work or a customer, the moment we put ourselves into their shoes and try to see the situation from their perspective, we give a successful interaction a chance. Some may describe this as kindness or thoughtfulness; however you define it is up to you, but when you refrain from entering into a potentially contentious situation with the objective to win and instead to understand and find a middle ground, that relationship will have the potential to improve and become stronger.
8. Become the best candidate to hire
Increasingly in our global economy, being aware of the many different cultures and ways of thinking in our world is an asset with employers. Not only is understanding different cultures imperative, but understanding the perspectives of different generations of people as well. After all, the youth have had many experiences more advanced generations have never had due to the access to technology, but the Gen Xers and Baby Boomers have many rich experiences that are of great value and must not be ignored. Keeping ourselves open to meeting new people and having conversations with others that are not the same age, can greatly increase our employability.
9. Become a better problem-solver
The more you know, the more you understand, the more tools you have in your toolbox to solve the myriad of life problems or conundrums that present themselves each and everyday. Simply because something doesn’t go as you had planned doesn’t mean there isn’t another path toward your desired goal. Creative thinking and a broad perspective of how things can work and varied life experiences can ensure that no problem goes unsolved.
10. Eliminate Unnecessary Stress
A few years ago I heard someone say, “Ignorance really is bliss”, and at the time I looked at them quizzically because while yes, not knowing may allow us to go through life without a worry, eventually we will get smacked with the truth, and often it is something we could have prevented if we would have been informed. No, I don’t want to know the day I will die, so in that case, yes, ignorance is bliss, but for example, being prepared should an earthquake hit (because as seismologists have been reminding us recently, it’s not a matter of “if” in western Oregon, but “when”) is the best approach. We may become a bit stressed knowing we don’t have control over when it will happen, we can ease this angst by being properly prepared. In this case, perspective comes by way of gathering as much knowledge about the situation or circumstances that we are living within.
As you can see, there are many benefits to choosing to broaden our perspective. The opportunities to do so will never cease as the world will forever be changing. Therefore, as long as you remain curious, you will always be growing, and thus, your perspective will always be stretching itself. It truly is a gift you give yourself.
Similar to Plato’s “Allegory of the Cave“, when we choose to step out of the cave and into the sunlight, initially, all of the direct light will be daunting and we may instinctively want to go back in where it is safe. However, we do ourselves no favors by hiding away from the truth the world has to offer. We must seek the sun, knowledge and a broaden education of the world and all the people that live in it. And when we do, we not only improve the quality of our own lives, but the world’s as well.
~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:
~A Thinking Life = A Happy Life
~The Benefits of Being Flexible with Life
~Why Not . . . Gather the Essentials for Life?
Petit Plaisir
~The perfect classic Tee
~Rag & Bone The Classic V-neck Tee (black or white), order one size smaller than usual as they run big. (crew neck available)
~Monrow oversized V-neck tee (gray) (crew neck available)
~Find each of these items in TSLL Shop
~A Fall Staple: The Blazer (episode #58)
~Decor Inspiration: Cindy’s Crawford’s Canadian Lake House
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September 12, 2015
Au Courant Weekly: On Hiatus
My sincerest of apologies, as the Au Courant Weekly as been put on hiatus for the time being until I get my two new schedules to coordinate.
I feel spoiled for the riches that life has bestowed on me, and I want to make sure that what I do complete and share is top quality both here on TSLL and in my classroom. After the first week back teaching at my new school, I am busy front-loading and putting into place a foundation that will hopefully allow more free time, but until then, the Au Courant Weekly is the only post that is being put on pause.
This was not an easy decision for me as this particular weekly post has quickly become one of my favorites (and listeners’ as well), so be sure I will be doing my best to bring it back as soon as I can.
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September 11, 2015
This & That: No. 175
Beauty
~Harry Josh Pro Dryer 2000
As someone who immediately noticed a difference in my hair when I began using an ionic blow-dryer (smoother hair, quicker and less drying to the hair), when I heard about Harry Josh’s blow-dryer as recommended in a handful of fashion magazines, I wanted to take a look. This tool is excessively expensive, however, Josh’s editorial style expertise is respected throughout the fashion industry and so I wanted to share with you this product as it will last for years and be a quality product to use. You may be wondering, what dryer do I use? I couldn’t live without my T3 Tourmaline Infused blow-dryer. I have had mine for eight years and it is still going strong. Highly recommend.
Book
~Everybody Rise by Stephanie Clifford
Still needing one more comfort novel to wrap up the final weeks of summer? Stephanie Clifford’s tale of navigating the social elite cliques on the Upper East Side in NYC finds 26-year-old protagonist Evelyn Beegan, who while wanting to carve her own path, finds the temptations well . . . far too tempting. People magazine has been raving about this title and it looks like a quick, enjoyable read.
~My Last Supper: 50 Great Chefs and Their Final Meals; Portraits, Interviews and Recipes by Melanie Dunea
After listening to a recent interview with award-winning photographer Melanie Dunea, I wanted to take a look at her coffee table book My Last Supper. After all, there are some amazing coffee table books available, but few involve food. Part of the reason I love cookbooks is for the images they contain, so why not share the last meal preferences of famous chefs, paired with creative imagery to cultivate interesting conversation with your guests? Dunea is currently working on a second edition of this book to spotlight a new group of beloved chefs, so do stay tuned.
~The Mystery of the Lost Cezanne: A Verlaque and Bonnet Mystery by M.L. Longworth
Ah, yes, a cozy mystery series continues. The fourth book in M.L. Longworth’s Verlaque and Bonnet capers, set in Provence, the captivating couple attempt to unravel a mystery that involves a painting found at an apartment once occupied by the artist himself, Cezanne. Set to be released on Tuesday (September 15th), this book is on pre-order as I always enjoy having an enjoyable read on hand after a long day at work.
~Sisters in Law: How Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg Went to the Supreme Court and Changed the World by Linda Hirshman
My students will not be surprised by this admission, and perhaps you won’t be either, but I am intrigued infinitely by the workings and rulings of the United States Supreme Court. And therefore, it should come as less of a surprise that the women, beginning with the first woman on the court, Sandra Day O’Connor, and the second Ruth Bader Ginsburg (who is still serving), intrigue me to no end. Thus, this book is on my wish list. Just released on September 1st, the book is already a best-seller. Do be sure to have a look.
~Why Not Me? by Mindy Kaling
Sharing her ongoing journey in pursuit of “contentment and excitement” in her adult life, best-selling author, Mindy Kaling’s new book (set to be released on Tuesday – September 15), presents the idea and her tenacity to pursue the path of her dreams even if she doesn’t “look the part”. Always inspiring with her über intelligence and crafty wit, I look forward to reading this book, and I think you might too.
~recipe for ~
Halston Heritage’s Spring 2016 collection has me captivated to say the least (view one image from their upcoming line above), even though it won’t be for six months that I will want to wear such clothes, but still. New York Fashion Week officially kicked off this week, and I am eager to see what designers have in store for the spring season. However, I am throughly enjoying the time to finally enjoy the few new items in my fall wardrobe.
With school beginning, as you can see from today’s This & That, reading and books are on my mind. And while academically, I am having to stay on top of non-fiction, analytical articles, I always make sure to have an easy read next to my bed to enjoy before I turn in. Hopefully today’s list will provide a good balance to choose from.
I do hope you had a wonderful week. I thoroughly enjoyed the many comments and life experiences readers shared on yesterday’s post about settling in to a new home town. Thank you for sharing, and if you stop by, feel free to share your experience. It is amazing how we can inspiring others with our stories and life experience without evening knowing it.
Whatever your weekend holds, I hope it is lovely. My weekend will be simple: watching the US Tennis Open finals, taking a good long walk and relaxing. Bon Vendredi!
~A few intriguing thoughts on which type of work cultivates the most satisfaction
~A beautiful reminder of more quality time with those we love and the benefits of making it a priority.
~Are you an introverted? Trying to stay balanced in an extroverted world? Read this.
~Forbes shares a handful of ways to become a more irresistible you.
~Wanting to step off the social media train? A few ideas on hot to have a social media detox.
~7 Ways to Protect Yourself from Other People’s Negative Energy . . . having a plan will reduce your stress. Be sure to take a look.
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September 10, 2015
Thoughts from the Editor: Settling In
As Saturday began this past weekend, I found myself waking up early, craving a bit of fresh air before the neighborhood woke up and deciding to take my boys on a walk down the street to the local bakery. Upon returning with a tarte aux pommes au caramel, I made myself a pot of tea from Palais des Thé and took note of a few weekend happenings as I perused the paper that I might check out.
With a pilates class later that morning, I quickly jaunted down the street for a morning class of stretching and toning and then returned to enjoy the weekend in such a way that I would follow whatever tickled my curiosity. Perhaps a used book sale, picking up a fresh vegetables for the coming week at the farmer’s market, watching a few matches of the US Open, who knows?
And then I reminded myself, fewer than two months ago, Bend was not my home.
Could it possibly be true that I have only lived in central Oregon for little over six weeks? Yes, it could be and it is, and it already feels like home.
For some readers it may be frustrating to hear someone settling into a new place so quickly, and for others who know the fear and then the exhilaration when it all eventually works out, your support has meant the world. I share my experience these past few weeks to offer evidence that taking a risk is worth the leap.
I can honestly say, I had no idea how events, living arrangements, relationships with new colleagues and so many other variables would work out, but the universe has a way of providing for what we need once we show we truly desire something.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I did my homework. I visited more than a handful of times and on two occasions stayed for more than a few days to get a feel for the environment, the people and the culture I might have the opportunity to move to should I be so lucky. It got to a point where I ached to move here, but knew nothing was certain. As I mentioned in a post years ago, often the fear we feel at this point, after we’ve done extensive investigating, is the fear of not being able to attain what we so dearly desire. If nothing else, your fear at this stage should be a welcomed sign. A sign that you are moving in the correct direction.
As I took my dogs for a second walk on Saturday in the afternoon blue sky and stunning sunshine, I found myself smiling incessantly for what may have appeared to been no reason at all. If someone were to see me, they may assume I had lost my mind, but the funny thing is, so many people here look just as I describe — genuinely happy. I don’t know most of them from Adam, but I have no doubt many of them have a similar story to tell. They are tickled to be somewhere they have chosen to be.
While my two life’s passions converge in a few short days, my workload feels like the image of Nigella in her library, overwhelming, but offering so much of what I love to do. Therefore, I feel fortunate to have such a dilemma.
My nudging to you today is to choose your path. Gather up your gumption and find a way to land where you want to live. I have no doubt you will be just as elated and content as I already am feeling, and I wish that each of you reading this post finds such a simple, yet extraordinary bliss. Bon jour née.
~a glimpse at my Saturday morning after taking a walk to pick up a tarte aux pommes au caramel at The Village Baker~
image: source
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September 9, 2015
Decor Inspiration: A Notting Hill Grand Sanctuary
While most of us don’t have a Lucien Freud painting hanging above our breakfast table (as seen above), what we do have is the ability to be inspired by the signature touches that interior designer Peter Mikic and Sebastian Scott have included in their London townhouse situated in Notting Hill. Captured by Elle Decor in 2012, Kate Martin’s photographer reveals a passion for art, inclusion of antique market finds (check out the master bathtub), and talent for blending original ideas with classic touches. Enjoy the tour.
~DECOR INSPIRATION POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES:
~A Victorian School Turned London Flat
Images via Elle Decor
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Word of the Week: No. 16
Click below for pronunciation:
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WORDS OF THE WEEK from the Archives:
Image: Harper’s Bazaar UK October 2015
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September 8, 2015
Outfit of the Week: The Ankle Boot
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~MM6 Maison Margiela hidden wedge ankle boot or ECCO sculptured 45 ankle boot or Franco Sarto Lucita booties (tan, black & gray available) or Vince Camuto Franell wild mushroom ankle boots (other colors available)~
~Equipment Margaux cotton shirt~
~J.Brand The Maria high-rise skinny jean~
~Halogen navy Lapis blazer (50% off)~
SHOP MORE ANKLE BOOTS:
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~OUTFITS OF THE WEEK from the Archives:
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