Blog posts that inspire

Principles of a Gracious Life ~ Ease

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Photo by Karolina Bobek ✌ on Unsplash
Whenever we experience freedom from constraint, pain, agitation or worry, we sense the pleasant satisfactions of naturalness. When we’re not making an effort, when we have relief from labor and are able to be carefree, we can feel rested, be quiet and tranquil, secure in the ease and comfort of our mind and heart. We need relaxation and a moment’s peace in order to live graciously, and when we do find this sense of calm, we experience greater dexterity in our performance. By backing away we move forward with grace.


~The Principles of a Gracious Life
by Alexandra Stoddard

Principles of A Gracious Life ~ Appreciation

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photo credit Melnychuk Nataliya
When we have a quick recognition of excellence, when we’re able to value someone or something, fully aware of the magnitude of their qualities, our illumination leads to being thankful, increasing the value of esteem. Being aware of the worth of appreciation is key to a gracious life. Whenever we esteem highly, we are validating life, its merit and worth.

When we are thankful, we ourselves increase in value, transcending time and place, becoming one with eternity. Of all the qualities of a gracious life, appreciation is the most essential. When we’re conscious of all the good and beautiful things and people in our lives, not judging, but living in continuous gratitude, we’re free to connect with the great, timeless truths. When we show appreciation, we’re recognizing the divinity within us, our true identity. 



~The Principles of a Gracious Life
by Alexandra Stoddard

Principles of a Gracious Life ~ Elegance

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My photo of the greenhouse at the Biltmore.
If you would like to read about my visit to the Biltmore Gardens see here.
“When we are sensitive to beauty in simplicity and mildness in manners, and choose to conduct ourselves in this consciousness, elegance results. Being refined in appearance, form, and style indicates that we not only respect and care for ourselves, but that we take others seriously as well. Showing interest and concern for and being receptive and responsive to those we come into contact with makes us examples of grace.”





~The Principles of a Gracious Life
by Alexandra Stoddard













Principles of Gracious Living ~ Authenticity

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photo credit Aerin Lauder Instagram account

“When we are true to ourselves and to others when our character is one of integrity, we have the quality of being authentic. Our personality is genuine, absolute, and reliable, and therefore worthy of trust and credibility. When we believe in ourselves, we are free to grow in our own soil, in the direction of our pure nature, which is grace-filled.”

~The Principles of a Gracious Life

by Alexandra Stoddard











(photo via Facebook)

Merry Christmas 2015

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Merry Christmas to everyone!
Thank you so much for stopping by and reading my blog this year. I really appreciate the traffic and time from everyone!!


I have been writing my blog for almost 2 years and so far I have had almost 18,000 viewers!
That may not be a lot but to me I think it is awesome. So thank you again and I wish everyone a blessed year!




Mrs. Shockley

Be Thankful…

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I am learning that being grateful for what you have and loving your own life brings so much peace. Love your own life. Happy Thanksgiving!!!
photo via Pinterest

Being the Perfect House Guest

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The time is drawing near for the holidays and being someone’s house guest may be on your list for this holiday season. Real Simple magazine has a great list called 10 Ways to be the Ideal Houseguest.

This is a great list that one can use to master the art of house guest etiquette. You don’t want to ruin your chances of being uninvited to your friend’s beautiful colonial in New York (my friend’s home in New York see here).

1) Be clear about how long you will stay ~ 
Make sure you lock down your visiting dates far in advance with your hosts…..







Photo by Trend on Unsplash





2) No surprises please~ 
Never show up unannounced


3) Choose the perfect gift~
Proper guest etiquette requires a gift.  Try a delicious delicacy from your hometown or a flowering plant….


4) House Rules Rule
When you arrive gently inquire about how things are done to avoid any misunderstandings…..





Photo by Андрей Постовой on Unsplash


5) Be Appropriate
Everybody has different comfort levels when it comes to baring. Before you walk down the hall in your shower towel – take cues from your host, when in doubt err on the side of modesty. 


6) Help Out
You should offer to help cook; set the table and do dishes; drive everyone in your car. Even if you are turned down your hosts will appreciate the gesture. 




7) Entertain Yourself
Your hosts still has a life and may have to work during the day. If so do some exploring on your own and let your hosts know what your plans are. 


8) BYO (Bring Your Own)
Don’t expect to use your hosts’ toiletries or other items. If you have forgotten to pack toothpaste inquire about where you can buy one. 


9) Leave No Trace
If there is one thing to take from these tips, it should be this: leave the place as clean as possible when you go.    






Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash





If you want to read more about this list then visit the link above. Also, if you missed my entry about Preparing for Guest see here.