Shannon Ables's Blog, page 331

Outfit of the Week: DVF Sale

~New Jeanne Two Wrap Dress in navy (black available)~

~Geena brown leather boot, similar here~

~Kenneth Jay Lane Hammered Gold Chain necklace or Gorjana Greer V neck necklace~

~Michael Kors Slim Runway double strap watch~

~Halston North-South leather tote bag, white, or Banana Republic white satchel~

It is without hesitation that I profess I am a Diane von Furstenberg fan. The wrap dress is my friend. And while not everyone prefers the wrap dress, her beautiful prints appearing on blouses, skirts and other styles of dresses are worth checking out, especially since today you can receive 25% off through Monday March 30th with promo code FRIENDS25.

I must admit, I pounced at this opportunity and scooped up a classic capsule wardrobe item. I have styled it for you above, but below are a few separate items you might like. Either way, do be sure to stop by the website to peruse it all.

~SHOP DVF’s FRIENDS & FAMILY SALE:

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Style Inspiration: The Bag

One of my favorite weekend readings is the Life & Style section in The Wall Street Journal‘s Saturday/Sunday issue. On the cover this past week was this article which discussed the move away from the “It” bag and toward more individualized tastes and void of exterior labels. It’s an interesting proposition, but from my own opinion, an investment bag isn’t anything that is purchased thoughtlessly, each season or to follow a trend. It is something that works with one’s lifestyle, preferences and budget, and if the fashion press has happened to label it an “it” bag, so be it, no?

Wherever you fall on the issue, it reminded me of how long I have had my own day tote, and still love it. And while I continue to receive compliments on it, I purchased it and love it because it works for my lifestyle (I need a lot of interior space), is a color that is a statement (cerulean) but also works with just about any outfit I choose, and was the right price for an investment item.   At the bottom of today’s post are a few options for handbag’s in a variety of colors, styles and prices just to give you some ideas. Enjoy perusing!

~A FEW IDEAS:

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Life & Tech: Become the Master of Your Cell Phone

“The only bad manners are those which are unkind or which contribute to another person’s discomfort.” Better Than Beauty: A Guide to Charm
~The Simple Sophisticate, episode #30

Upon reflection recently, I began to consider those relationships in my life in which I felt a strong, sincere bond. And I began to recall how our time is spent together. In each instance, whether it was a family member, a friend or a colleague, the person had chosen to give their full, undivided attention. Very rarely, if ever, had a cell phone been visible, let alone been used during our time together.

On the flip side, those individuals with whom a connection, while attempted, just didn’t seem to occur, often held in their descriptor as the presence and frequent use of a cell phone. Granted there were other factors as well, but this was a common detail. So I began to wonder, since cell phones are only becoming more ubiquitous in our modern tech world, how can we become the master of them?

After all, cell phones, smart phones, tablets and any type of technology that has become integral to our everyday lives is an impressive tool, but we must choose to use it effectively, otherwise it can do more harm than good. Just as scissors in the hands of a skilled hair stylist can craft magic with any type of tresses; in the hands of a novice, the results can be devastating and take months to rectify.

As someone who is quite reliant on her smart phone, I will readily admit that I need to become more self-disciplined when it comes to how I use it. Unlike many life skills (driving, cooking, compassion, just to name a few) which are learned and observed from the generation before us, how to use a cell phone in public respectfully and appropriately is something we are all learning as we go. And while it may seem the rules change, they really aren’t.

Referencing the quote at the top of the post, even if you don’t know the people in the room of which you are standing in, if your talking may make them uncomfortable or be distracting, common sense would nudge you to allow the call to go to voicemail or step outside to take it. But before we dive into mobile manners, I’d like to take a look at the many benefits and drawbacks of having cell phones in our lives.

Benefits:

Stay connected regardless of distance or situation
Alerted to emergencies in a timely manner
Swiss Army Knife at your disposal: GPS, camera, music, planner, contacts, wallet, endless apps, encyclopedia for any question you might need answered

Drawbacks:

Encourages unhealthy relationships and lack of growth

David Brooks wrote a thought-provoking op-ed earlier this month which speaks to the detriment of cleaving to newly college students by their parents, and how this separation is vital for the child to mature into a healthy adult. Sadly, if our instant communication abilities are used ad nauseum, a parent may be doing more harm than good by staying in constant contact.


Hinder intimacy
Cause accidents
Likelihood of security breach

With so much of our lives stored on our smart phones, if lost, a once absent-minded moment can flip our lives upside down and cause unnecessary stress, angst and potential loss of money.

When it comes to respectful use of our cell phones in public or around people, an ironic finding was discovered by a recent Intel study. Eighty percent of Americans surveyed said they were annoyed when they saw in appropriate use of our tech gadgets; however, 77% of people admitted to doing it. So why do we persist?

The same study found that 92% wished people would practice better cell phone etiquette, so why don’t we? Perhaps it comes back to the foundation of what we know is proper. Sometimes it really is easier to recognize it in others than it is in ourselves. After all, if our spouse calls or our child, we rationalize taking the call because they hold an important place in our lives, but here’s the catch. The people around us are affected by our decision, and we must take into consideration that we aren’t making a decision that only affects us. Granted, if it is an emergency, that is different, but if your child, parent or friend simply needs to hear your voice, there is voicemail or texting.

While simply adhering to the simple advice of being aware of how our use of technology impacts those around us, sometimes we need more. Sometimes we need to be reminded, and sometimes, we honestly were never taught and simply didn’t know. After all, we weren’t born with a cell phone attached to our ear. Knowing how to effectively and respectfully use it to foster healthy, thoughtful relationships is a learned behavior, so here we go.

1. No driving while using a phone or any tech gadget. 

2. Avoid bringing phones where you shouldn’t use them or to do so would be uncouth:

restaurants, places of worship, library, theater, museums, school, lectures, waiting rooms, funerals, weddings, live performances, trains, planes, meetings

3. If you must have your phone on you, switch it to silent or vibrate and leave the room should you need to take a call.

4. Give the person in your physical company your full attention.

Refrain from texting someone else while talking to someone in person. The behavior, whether intended or not, signifies who is more important to you at that time.

5. Be mindful of volume and voice projection.

6. Refrain from placing your cell phone on the table.

7. Allow voicemail to do what it was designed to do. Trust it; it works.

8. When leaving a voicemail, keep it short, but express why you are calling.

A simple “call me” is ambitious and leaves the responder uncertain of how dire or necessary their attention is to the situation.

9. Don’t make people wait while you finish a phone call.

End the phone call away from others before engaging or when you might be expected to engage (check out counter, bank teller, etc).

10. Use speaker phone respectfully.

Ask the person if you can put them on speaker phone and/or let them know when you are on speaker phone.

11. Do not share personal details in public.

12. Respect the Ten Feet Rule.

If you can’t leave the room to take the call, and must take it, step away from others, at least 10 feet or more if possible.

In 2012 a study conducted by the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships reported “the mere presence [of our cell phone] paradoxically holds the potential to facilitate as well as to disrupt human bonding and intimacy.” We can master these amazing devices if we choose to. Often, as I observe my teenage students, I am quickly reminded how cell phones are an escape, a safe place to go when we feel uncomfortable or are seeking validation. It takes a strong, secure person to put the phone away and walk with their head up into a room of people they don’t know. It takes a strong, secure person to look someone in the eye and have a conversation with them and perhaps be vulnerable.

To allow our modern advancements to cause us to regress rather than progress toward a better life is something we must own because the device doesn’t have such a significant power unless we give allow it to be taken from us.

Here are some simple ways you can become the master of your cell phone:

1. Practice self-restraint and self-control

Time magazine shared a study by the Journal of Personalities which revealed that self-control is as much about avoiding temptation as it is about finding ways to not be tempted in the first place. Put into practice habits that release you from making the decision of reaching for your phone. When you’re driving, leave it in your purse; when you go to the meeting, leave it in your locked office; when you are having dinner with your significant other, turn it off completely.

2. Have clear priorities

If your relationships are a priority to you, refuse to allow the minor alerts, pings, rings or tweets that naturally will draw your attention away, interrupt an intimate conversation. There is a silence option on your phone for a reason. Use it.

3. Set and respect boundaries

Boundaries not only for yourself, when you and where you can use your phone, but also boundaries for others to learn to respect as well. Often we have to teach our boundaries to others as they will proceed based on what they allow in their own lives, but until we make it clear what we need, they will continue to cross the line. We teach people how to treat us and respond to us.

4. Use the full capabilities of your phone

Use the Do Not Disturb option on your phone, pre-set for a certain amount of hours each night. Allowing only your “favorites” to ring through, you are assured that you won’t miss something you should and you’ll be sure to get a restful night’s sleep. Turn off the unnecessary notifications. Select apps that monitor your phone usage: Moment, Breakfree, and Calm.  Again, the key is you. What will you allow?

As of January 2014, the Pew Research Center shared that 90% of American adults have a cell phone and 58% adults have a smartphone. These numbers only reflect adults, and we know many children and young adults have them as well. Even if we feel our behavior is unobtrusive to others, what we model speaks volumes to how and when a cell phone can be properly and respectfully used.

I am by no means perfect, and often find myself breaking one or two of these rules from time to time. But just as the first study I shared at the beginning of the post revealed, I will admit to getting slightly agitated when people around me aren’t aware of their disturbance to others when they use their phone in a public place that is asking for calm, quiet or our full attention. We may each be a small ripple in a grand ocean of our technology-loving society, but it has to start somewhere. Why not with us?

~Stay tuned as this is the beginning of a three-part Life & Tech series. We will be diving into Texting Etiquette and Email Etiquette soon. If you have any other areas of interest involving technology, please do share in the comments as I am always open to feedback. 

~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

~19 Ways to Master the Art of Communication

~Why Not . .  Practice Courteous Cell Phone Etiquette?

~Why Not . . . Edit Your Life?

 Petit Plaisir:
 ~Madam Secretary

This past fall, on the weekly This & That, I suggested CBS new Sunday drama starring Tèa Leoni for viewing. At the time, I was optimistic it would be a worthwhile series, but wasn’t sure. Now, I am sure. And as such, it was brought to my attention by a reader in January when she emailed me to mention she was shocked I hadn’t recommended it yet. She is absolutely correct, Madam Secretary is worth recommending, and here is why.

Before jumping to conclusions, Tèa Leoni’s character, Elizabeth McCord, is not patterned after any former female Secretary of State, but rather is a combination of attributes which are undoubtedly required by any person chosen to be five steps away from the Presidency be they man or woman. A former CIA operative and college professor, McCord is tapped to step into her new position after her predecessor was killed in a plane crash.

There are many aspects to the show that draw me in each Sunday evening at 8pm – the behind-the-scenes look at D.C. politicking (while yes, fictitious understandably), Elizabeth’s choice of professional attire on her lanky physique, and the quick wit and humor included to balance the seriousness of such a position with diplomatic relations – but what has struck me as highly laudable for a drama on primetime television is their restraint when it comes to Elizabeth and her husband, Henry’s relationship.

As a professor in theology, Henry and his wife Elizabeth, now regularly working with POTUS, present an egalitarian camaraderie rather than a man who is threatened and a woman who tries doggedly to shed her femininity. Not the case in Madam Secretary. With high level conversations with their children, the show attempts to reveal that communication, clear, honest, often uncomfortable conversation is crucial, but the benefits are profound. Perhaps stealing a page from the Huxtables, but nonetheless, it raises the bar, and allows the international turmoils to become the drivers of the plot, not the trivial relationship spats that often are spun from insecurity and poor communique. Bravo to the writers for crafting a family show that all ages can watch, enjoy and learn from.

 

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This & That: No. 150

~Cookbook
~The Bergdorf Goodman Cookbook

Dine as the artists and designers do in New York City with The Bergdorf Goodman Cookbook which will be released this coming Tuesday (March 24). Located on the seventh floor on 5th & 58th and decorated by Kelly Wearstler (see below), the iconic is a luxurious place to dine. And while I’ve only perused the retail floors, I have been told by many in the blogging world that the restaurant, if only I can afford their a glass of champagne in celebration, is well worth the experience. But for those many times when I can’t jaunt to the east coast, this cookbook may keep the nostalgic fires alive. And yes, if you’re curious, the recipe for their famous Gotham Salad is included.

~Cooking Show
~Dinner at Tiffani’s

A play on words of the beloved Holly Golightly story, Tiffani Amber-Theissen takes viewers into her home to share her passion of cooking. With each episode focused on building a menu for a small, intimate dinner party in which her celebrity friends stop by, help her cook and indulge in table-talk conversation (helped along by a little wine or a cocktail or two), it is a delightful new show to watch. I recently sat down and thoroughly enjoyed her bunch menu that was shared with Lance Bass and his husband as well as Grimm star Bree Turner. Simple, fresh and a touch of decadence, needless to say, it was right up my alley.

~Film
~It’s Me Hilary: The Man Who Drew Eloise

If while growing up you were a fan of the children’s books starring Eloise who lived in the Plaza Hotel in New York City, you too have something in common with actress, writer and director Lena Dunham. In HBO’s new documentary to be aired March 23rd, Lena Dunham introduces viewers to the man behind the illustrations of the unique, quirky, strong and authentically herself protagonist Eloise. Have a look at the trailer below, and click here to check out the beloved books – ideal for young readers.

~Woman in Gold

I first learned of the painting, Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I, that was stolen from the Austrian family during WWII by the Nazis when I watched the documentary The Rape of Europa, Also known by the name of the Lady in Gold (see below the painting by Gustav Klimt), Maria Altman is the niece of the woman in the painting, and in the upcoming film, to be released April 1st, Helen Mirren utilizes her talents to convey the resolute journey to reclaim what is rightfully her family’s. Have a look at the trailer below. Learn more about the story behind the painting here.

~Shopping
~Emerson Fry Portia Top

In light-weight textured cotton, this flattering cut will show off your sun-kissed arms this upcoming summer. Pair with a skirt, jeans or shorts, it can easily be dressed up or down.

~Joie Balina Boucle jacket (25% off)

Through March 23rd, everything on Joie’s website is 25% off, and as I was perusing their clothing, I came across this boucle jacket. Many readers have emailed me in the past about where to find Chanel-like tweed jackets, and well, this isn’t a bad imitation, especially when you save 25% with the JOIEFRIENDS promo code.  Below are a few more items that caught my eye.

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 ~recipe for Caprese Egg Benedict~

Ahhhh, the long spring holiday has finally arrived, and not a moment too soon. It feels as though a long breath has finally been exhaled after being held for far too long. Believe it or not, I am keeping it simple during my week of leisure and spending most of the days at my home. Being able to solely work on the blog during the work week is a treat I always eagerly look forward too, and as I will be preparing for my first book signing on the 28th, I can’t wait to savor the days leading up to the getaway to my home town.

I have been enjoying getting into the kitchen lately as evident by the recipe shared in this week’s Petit Plaisir, and this upcoming week off will be I have a feeling filled with other recipes attempted for the first time. There is something about tinkering in the kitchen knowing I don’t have to rush and can sip a little wine while I work in the evenings that really is inviting.

And I cannot thank enough two lovely bloggers for their review of Choosing The Simply Luxurious Life. Have a look at Diva & the Divine and Sarah DIY Lifestyle‘s very humbling words.

But in any event, the weekend off must including reading, and I have some wonderful reads for you . . .

~The Parisian Women Are (almost) Effortlessly Chic

~8 Things Emotionally Stable People Don’t Do

~You’re not alone! A Changing Trend when it comes to women and choosing to have children

~David Leibovitz shares a scrumptious recipe for a French Apple Pie

~15 Things Happy People Do Differently

~6 Habits of People in Happy Marriages

~Real style from real Parisian women

~And if you haven’t taken a moment to check out author Vicki Archer’s new website, you will want to do so soon – so many Francophile posts, you will be inundated in a very good way.

May you have a lovely weekend, and whether or not you have a week off, may you thoroughly enjoy doing what tickles your curiosities. Until Monday, bonjour.

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Letter from the Editor: Cafe Time

As spring rains began falling this week, I must admit I wish such moments would last far longer than they ever do. There is something so soothing, so invigorating and so comforting about rain, temperate rains, rains that signal a new season’s arrival, and of course the sounds and sight of rain whether we are inside or out is part of the package that has me so enamored.

To pull on my wellies, to slip on my trench, these are my beloved spring clothing favorites. Why? To be honest, I probably can’t put my finger on it entirely, but it has to do with life, an opportunity for growth and the reminder that yesterday can be washed away whether we want it to be or not and to live in the moment, soak it up, revel in it and drink in the beautiful scent that it brings.

The talk of spring rain brings me to Paris as it is the season I am so eager to experience in the City of Light and as of yet have not have the privilege. And one of my favorite pastimes whether I’m in Paris or not, especially after a very busy day or week is to slip away to a favorite cafe, commandeer a table for one that offers an ideal vantage point and sip and dream.  Ideally, my dogs would be with me, and I lose all track of time. If the sun is shining, to feel it on my back as the day either begins or ends is surreally magnificent.

But what if we can’t escape to a favorite cafe? What can we do? Why not create a petite reading and dining space in our own home? Here’s how:

Save up and purchase a few bistro chairs from TK Collections, (the iconic brand that supplies most of the Parisian cafes with their furniture)
Select a beautiful table cloth (love these beautiful cotton options)
Make a hot cup of something warm for morning or pour yourself a glass of rose for the afternoon evening
Add delightful reading material (perhaps this, this or this?).
And voilà!

I don’t know about you, but cultivating our own “Parisian respite” in our everyday lives would be a lovely treat to look forward to, no matter where or how we partake and enjoy. So here is to the next time such a moment is offered, may we revel in, delight in and savor it, no?

 

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Style Inspiration: Outerwear & Paris

The last week of Fashion Month wraps up in Paris, and this season the street style was delicious. One of the reasons I thoroughly enjoy street style gazing is to see how fashion insiders dress for the elements while simultaneously appearing nonchalantly chic and sophisticated. And as you will see, the outerwear was stunning. While I did include one image that was taken in NYC (Nina Garcia) and the last image, every other photo was captured in the City of Light. Enjoy the gawking, I’m doing it right along with you.

~STYLE INSPIRATION POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES:

~Paris Street Style

~Parisian Spring Style

~Paris FW & Layers of Fall

Images: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11)  (12)  (13) (14) (15)

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Why Not . . . Spring Forward?

“Don’t fear change. You may lose something good, but you may also gain something great.” -Anonymous
~The Simple Sophisticate, episode #29

A couple years ago I shared a list of 12 simple ways to prep for the season of spring, and while these are each activities and seasonal habits I thoroughly look forward to and highly recommend, I wanted to go a bit deeper today. After all, if we desire to spring forward, we must first be willing to let go, otherwise forward momentum will be if not impossible, very difficult as we are weighed down with unnecessary burdens.

Think about a deciduous tree for example. When fall arrives, the leaves turn their glorious autumnal shades as moisture seeps from them, and then they eventually fall to the grown to offer the exhilarating crunch we walk through as we admire the changing of the seasons. In order to be free in the spring to burst forth with as much potential as possible, the leaves from the past must no longer linger on the branches. So too must we unburden ourselves from excess that is no longer serving us. Whether it simply be clothes we no longer wear, items in our home that simply take up space and need to be donated or sold, or something more empowering as to let go of limited thinking – fearful thoughts that may be holding us back keeping us in the current place in our life that is actually no longer serving us.

Today the discussion is going to focus on four ways to be clear about where we want to go, eliminate what prevents us from getting there and maintaining the progress we wish to see occur.

1. Craft Your Personal Mission Statement

“Fundamentally, your mission statement becomes your constitution . . . like the United States Constitution, it is [at its core] fundamentally changeless . . . , the solid expression of your vision and values. It becomes the criterion by which you measure everything else in your life.” -Stephen R. Covey, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

Originally written in 1989, Stephen Covey’s success how-to guide has been poured over by thousands, probably millions. And one of his suggestions that he is adamant about when it comes to cultivating a road to a successful life whether it be personal or business is drafting a mission statement. In other words, our very own constitution. A map by how we live, make decisions and go about setting goals and pursing them.

As he reminds his readers, everyone’s will be unique. You may want to create one for business, for your family or only for your own personal direction. I have two: one for the blog and one for my personal guidance. What a mission statement provides is something to constantly be checking in with; however, as Covey reminds,

“A mission statement is not something you write overnight. It takes deep introspection, careful analysis, thoughtful expression and often many rewrites to produce it in final form . . . you will want to review it regularly and make minor changes as the years bring additional insight or changing circumstances.” -Stephen Covey 

The three main components of any mission statement are as follows:

What do you want to be? (character)
What do you want to do? (contributions and achievements)
What are your values and principles upon what being and doing are based?

I can remember writing my first personal mission statements more than 10 years ago, and upon looking at it recently, while some items have been tweaked due to my circumstances, at the core, my values are the same which was very reassuring.

I encourage you to carve out an afternoon, don’t put a time limit on when it must be completed, and just let your pen flow for awhile. Then craft it into a document that is styled in your own unique voice. Perhaps you prefer poem form instead of prose, but add your own touch. I think you will find great comfort and guidance as you move forward toward the simply luxurious life you are curating for yourself. Oh, and if you want, once you are finished, make it formal – frame it, print it and place it somewhere where you can see it on a regular basis. Or perhaps, you wish to remain more private, in that case, keep a neatly printed copy in your planner or wallet to better suit you. Either way, put it somewhere so that you can refer to it as needed.

~Click here to view a long list of examples of personal mission statements.

2. Discover the Power of Meditation

More creativity, less stress, more compassion, better memory, more positive emotions, long-lasting emotional stability and improved focus. In other words, overall improved health and quality life. Such amazing benefits, and they truly all materialize with a simply daily habit of mindful meditation.

I know, I know – sitting, breathing, not thinking – how is that going to prompt these amazing, much-desired outcomes to occur? After being a half-hearted skeptic for quite some time, a couple of years ago, I came to the realization that this simple practice was something that required much conscious effort. In other words, I realized I couldn’t just sit down and voila!

So I began reading more about it, and coupled with the knowledge that we truly do have the ability to master our minds, I began to realize while I knew I needed to master my mind, that wasn’t happening all of the time, especially not during times of high stress. And I wanted to change.

As I mentioned in last week’s newsletter, having read Dan Harris’ book 10% Happier more than just a few aha moments occurred. In fact it was his initial skepticism that encouraged me to not only read and finish the book, but reread and take ample notes, keeping the book next to me on my first couple attempts at meditating. Simply put Harris reminds readers that “Mindfulness provides space between impulse and action, so you’re not a slave to whatever neurotic obsession pops into your head.”

But in basic terms how does this actually work? I wanted to know, so I found out. Here is the science of the brain as explained in this article: meditation weakens the Me Center (responsible for trigger strong emotional reaction when we feel we might be under attack) and strengthens the Assessment Center of our brains which serves as the rational part of our brain.

In other words, we are better equipped to act based on rational thought rather than our impulse which is motivated by emotion that may be regrettable later.

3. Spruce Up Your Spring Wardrobe

Okay, let’s lighten it up a little bit. If you are a subscriber to either the weekly TSLL newsletter or the bi-annual Seasonal Shopping Guide newsletter, over the past weekend you received TSLL Spring Shopping Guide. And while I admit in the newsletter that clothes are not the answer to the endless questions in life when it comes to discovering our purpose and finding tranquility in our day to day lives, they are a means to the end. In other words, how we present ourselves to the world intrinsically affects our mood, our confidence and the confidence of others in us to complete the job.

So whether you are looking to completely revamp your closet or simply need to add a few items, why not have a look at the guide. Better yet, begin by doing a closet assessment, and then begin building your capsule wardrobe.

4. Reinvigorate Your Eating Regimen

Often times when we sit down to write our new year’s resolutions in January, if they have anything to do with eating well, it can be difficult to become motivated about the selection. After all, at least in my experience, farmer’s markets are closed, fresh produced has been shipped from great distances and food bursting with flavor can be hard to find. However, now that spring is upon us, the opposite is true, good food is becoming more and more available and at great, cost-saving options.

Over the weekend, I shared the above photo of my grocery run for the week as I had discussed a few weeks ago on my Thoughts from the Editor post. And in all honestly, this image very rarely deviates from week to week in order to simplify my life and keep my eating habits in line.

But here is where it will change, when new seasons begin to offer their prime vegetables and fruit. Right now I’m eager to bring into my kitchen asparagus and rhubarb and come summer, I will be piling the tomatoes into my basket or pulling them off the vines from my yard.

Have fun picking and choosing food. The cooking does not have to be complicated if the food is of high quality and the use of herbs, olive oil and real butter are used appropriately. Click here to view a list of how to feed your body well without depriving your taste buds of luxurious flavor and satiation.

At the core of springing forward is priming the well that is you. Once you know what you value, no matter what changes around you, you will be better equipped to flow with the changes because as Covey reminds us, our core principle values shouldn’t fluctuate much, if at all, much like the U.S. Constitution.

May you have a wonderful start to the new season.

~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY:

~Why Not . . . Buy Local Produce?

~Why Not . . . Create a Mini Garden?

~What is Worth the Risk?

Petit Plaisir

Sole Meunière 

~scene starring Meryl Streep and Stanley Tucci in Julie & Julia~

Time: 10-20 minutes

Servings: 2

Ingredients:

1/4 cup all-purpose flour
kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper
2 fresh sole fillets (3-4 ounces each)
3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
1 teaspoons of grated lemon zest
2 small lemons or 1 large lemon (3-4 tablespoons of juice)

Directions:

Combine flour with salt and pepper on a large shallow plate.
Pat the sole dry with a paper towel and then sprinkle with salt on one side.
Heat up 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a sauce pan over medium heat until it begins to brown.
Dredge both fillets in the flour mixture.
Place the fillets in the saucepan with the hot butter.
Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until lightly brown.
Flip onto the second side and sprinkle fillets with zest and lemon juice. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
Remove from the pan and place on serving dish. Pour the sauce from the pan over the fish for additional flavor.
Serve immediately or cover with tin foil until remaining dishes for your menu are complete.
Garnish with chopped Italian parsley and/or slices of lemon.

~Wine as seen in the photos from Liner & Elsen, Chateau d’Aix-en-Provence Rose, 2013

~recipe for Roasted Vegetables (as seen in the picture)

 

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This & That: No. 149

~Book
~Amherst: A Novel by William Nicholson

Oscar winning screenwriter, William Nicholson, takes two love stories (one from the past and one from the present), the American poet Emily Dickinson to preside over both, and parallels their adulterous and destined affairs. Arriving from London in present day, Alice Dickinson arrives in Amherst, Massachusetts, to complete research for a potential screenplay about Emily Dickinson’s brother Austin who had a scandalous affair with a married woman 20 years his junior.

While on location, Alice herself becomes entangled in a similar affair with an English professor very much her senior. With love at the core of the novel, its temptations, wonders and amazements are shared with pieces of history as the author’s guide.

~Less Medicine, More Health: 7 Assumptions That Drive Too Much Medical Care

As a doctor at Dartmouth’s Medical Center, H. Gilbert Welch offers the argument that more medical care doesn’t not equate to better health. After his best-selling book diagnosis, Welch debunks seven myths that prompt many of us to undergo too many tests, expose ourselves unnecessarily to too many procedures and offers suggestions on how to remain healthy (a healthy balance must be struck) without stressing our minds and our bodies out.

Read a recent interview he gave on Science Friday here.

~Film
~ While We Were Young

On March 27th, Ben Stiller and Naomi Watts star in a thoughtful film as they star as a middle-aged couple who has recently become captivated by a young couple who explore and enjoy life with abandon. Stepping into their world, Stiller & Watts contemplate their age and what they really want. I must say, I’m quite curious to watch this Noah Baumbach film.

~Francophile Find
~News in Slow French

If you are someone like me, who must stay abreast of the daily news, but also would love (in all of my spare time) to improve my French, this just might be the app for you. Offering weekly newscasts that discuss the top stories of the week in French, yes, slow French, you will be amazed at how much you pick up. With a free app available (in other languages as well), this a simple tool to improve your listening and comprehension in the language you are eager to learn.

~Music
~Rebel Heart, Madonna

Okay, I may date myself here, but in the eighties, Madonna’s album True Blue was the first cassette I ever purchased. So, for that reason, and now many others, I will forever be a fan. With a double disc album having been just released this past Tuesday, the debut song “Living for Love” is one that is certainly growing on me. (This video and song will forever be one of my favorites.) Have a look and listen below:

~Television
~Jo starring Jean Reno on Acorn

I continue to be reminded why I love subscribing to the British television streaming service Acorn. Just this past week, I was perusing the selections on this $4.99/month service and stumbled upon two of my favorite items combined into one – anything French and mysteries. Set in Paris, Jean Reno stars as a Joachim (Jo) Saint-Clair who is a veteran detective in Paris Criminal Brigade. With eight episodes in its first season which was just recently released, if you were a fan of the original Law & Order (the executive producer is behind Jo) and you love seeing the famed sights of Paris, you will be in for a treat.

 

~recipe for Pear Almond Cake~

A warm, and perhaps rainy at times weekend can only be described in my dictionary of living well as absolutely ideal. With plans for a combination of work (but fun work as I am finishing up the Spring Shopping Guide), play (working in the yard and setting it up for spring) and leisure (reading, napping, whatever else sounds relaxing, nibbling on something sweet and scrumptious perhaps?), I have been waiting for such a weekend for some time.

How about you? What would be your ideal leisurely weekend at home? Hopefully, whatever it is, it is one its way for the next few days. And you know what? You’ve earned it. Savor, revel, indulge, relax. Take the time to rejuvenate yourself so that you can be your best self.

Whether you spend the weekend relaxing, traveling, bee-bopping or anything in between, here are a few articles you might enjoy reading . . .

~11 Important Things You Should Know About Yourself

~What We Appreciate, Appreciates

~10 Courageous Ways to Live Without Regret

~Kate Middleton visits Downton Abbey

~Why We Worry, and What to Do About It

~The Daily Beast tries to understand and then smooths out the fuss about Sheryl Sandburg

And in case you missed Chanel’s Fall 2015 collection in the Grand Palais, have a look below at the impressive and to the “T” construction of a stereotypical Parisian brasserie. Named Brasserie Gabrielle after its beloved founder, the first pic is quite the who’s who, and to view all of my favorites from Paris Fashion Week, click here.

~ from left to right: Anna Wintour, Mario Testino, Hamish Bowles and Brad Kroenig with son Hudson (Karl Lagerfeld’s godson)~

 

Images: (2) (4), Brasserie images via Vogue Paris, Chanel and Harper’s Bazaar

The post This & That: No. 149 appeared first on The Simply Luxurious Life®.

Letter from the Editor: Reading & Curiosity

One of the priceless gifts that being a teacher gives you are moments that cannot be planned for, but are oh so treasured when they happen. A former student who is currently in college asked if she could stop by recently and have lunch with me during the school day. Tickled, and eager to hear how her experience in higher academia were going, we set the date.

As she was talking about her classes and all that she was learning, I lost track of time. I’m not sure if she enjoyed it as much as I, but I gobbled up her new found knowledge, conversing about topics such as philosophy, politics and religion. Needless to say, in that moment, she was the teacher as I walked away having learned more than a few things from the discussion.

For me, such conversations and sharing of information are intoxicating as they pique my curiosity as I wish to learn more and more if only I had the time to take the classes she was talking about with such intrigue. To observe someone else light up when they talk about newfound knowledge and an excitement for life is a joy that inspires hope and serves as a reminder that there really is something more to learn no matter what our age.

I suppose the reason I surround myself with endless books begging to be read or finally finished, as well as a long laundry list of publications arriving each month is because I love the euphoria that knowledge cultivates within me. To find answers, to unearth the “why” for life’s infinite questions, is soothing in its own way.

And speaking of books, here are a few that were recently released or will be released soon that you may enjoy as well:

~How to Be a Heroine: Or, What I’ve Learned from Reading too Much by Samantha Ellis

~Selfish, Shallow & Self-Absorbed: Sixten Writers on the Decision Not to Have Kids by Meghan Daum

~Better Than Before: Mastering the Habits of Our Everyday Lives by Gretchen Rubin

~The Art of Work: A Proven Path to Discovering What You Were Meant to Do by Jeff Goins

~The Philosopher’s Toolkit: A Compendium of Philosophical Concepts and Methods

So lately, and always it seems, my thoughts have been thinking of home libraries and how lovely ti would be to have the space and the shelves to have such a room in my home.  As sort of a makeshift Decor Inspiration post. at the end of the post there are few images of beautiful interior images offering a variety of ways to decorate with books and inspire a room of reading and curiosity for life’s answers. But before we get to those, what would your ideal home library include? A sofa or an Eames lounge chair? Dark or light walls? Side tables or tufted ottomans? A television or tech free? If we’re dreaming, below is my list of must-haves. Feel free to dream with me in the comments.

Shelves of books organized by subjects for easy acquisition dependent on my need and mood
Oodles of windows or at least one large French window as to let in the sunshine and feel the breeze on warm summer days or gaze through and hear the pitter patter of the rain when spring showers fall.
A sofa with a chaise or an ottoman for cozy comfort
To clearly designate the purpose of the room, I would prefer it sans television, so as to allow the books and reading material to have  my full attention.
A vase or two for fresh flowers
A tray or table large enough for a tea setting
Art that has been gradually but carefully collected from travels

Now, please do share . . .

 

Images: (1) House Beautiful

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Style Inspiration: A Little of Everything

From white to black, warmth to breezy, flared jeans to boyfriend length, the options for establishing a signature style are endless. And while that can be overwhelming at times as we begin the journey of solidifying what exudes our best and most authentic self, it can also be a tremendous amount of fun. After all, it takes time and doesn’t happen after one shopping excursion. So do have patience with yourself and enjoy the journey. Much like life, no?

 

 

Images: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11)

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