Friday, December 28, 2012

Grace Notes No. 7

"How many cares one loses when one decides not to
be something but to be someone."
Coco Chanel
 
 
 
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TODAY'S GRACE NOTES
 
"Everything falls into place as soon as we find our personal style. Being comfortable with ourselves is an accomplishment."

"Who do you know who is pure and true to their unique spirit? As we think about the new year, let's plan lots of space for reflection and time for the work we love. It's worth whatever sacrifices are necessary."
 
Excerpts from Alexandra Stoddard's Grace Notes.
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What's your personal style? Mine is all about color (surprise! surprise!). As I anticipate the New Year - wow, 2013 has such a nice ring - I look forward to continuing to grow personally and to fully embracing and appreciating my life, loves and work. What are you hoping to accomplish in the new year?
 

Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Grace Notes No. 6

"Never hating, never resisting, never contesting,
she is simply always learning and being."
Lao-Tzu

 
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TODAY'S GRACE NOTES
 
"Open yourself up to learning and being. Is your house decorated? We used ribbons as our theme this year, putting bows on our wreath and tree. What is the theme of your decorations?"

"What have you learned from your friends and neighbors about their traditions and religious observations? Embrace all influences and rituals and celebrate love and joy together."
 
Excerpts from Alexandra Stoddard's Grace Notes.
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This is what life is all about - learning, being, accepting and embracing. Our trip to the Middle East earlier this year opened my heart and mind to people, cultures and religions I knew very little about before. I grew so much during this experience. What are you doing to learn about other traditions and cultures? Please share... I seek to always continue to learn and grow. 


Friday, December 7, 2012

Grace Notes No. 5

"A man's style is as much a part of him as his face,
his figure, or the rhythm of his pulse."
Francois Fenelon
 
 
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TODAY'S GRACE NOTES
 
"Our style becomes more flamboyant this season when we festoon everything with garlands, ornaments and ribbons. Our home will reflect our exuberance for life and the holiday spirit."
 

"We develop a personal style that really does mirror our soul. If we pick up a style that is not our own, we will pay dearly by being a stranger in our own house. Carry on in your own way with your own loving traditions and your style will be refreshing."
 
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I completely agree with this. Whenever I am tempted to dress or decorate in a way that is not my own style it just doesn't feel right. My style is pretty classic but I always like to have some kind of twist, both in my personal style and my decorating style. I am excited to get our tree this weekend. I usually keep our holiday decor pretty much the same every year but maybe this year I'll look for something new to add that is just the right dose of classic yet current. Maybe some sparkle? How about you? What is your style?


Related posts: Grace Notes No. 1, Grace Notes No. 2, Grace Notes No. 3, Grace Notes No. 4

Excerpts from Alexandra Stoddard's Grace Notes.

Monday, December 3, 2012

Grace Notes No. 4

"Contentment consisteth not in adding more fuel,
but in taking away some fire."
Thomas Fuller


 

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TODAY'S GRACE NOTES

"In the past, this time of year, we've had a tendency to overdo. Too many obligations, too many parties, too many deadlines that dull our senses. Enjoy a steady flame but not a continual fire."

"Every invitation doesn't require your presence. Consider spending some quiet evenings at home with your feet up, relaxing by the fire -- not socializing and not working, just living."

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Admittedly, this is hard for me. I love going to parties and I love hosting them! But the idea of relaxing by the fire with my feet up sounds pretty dreamy too. I think I will try it! How about you?


Related posts: Grace Notes No. 1, Grace Notes No. 2, Grace Notes No. 3

Excerpts from Alexandra Stoddard's Grace Notes.

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