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Brow Lamination

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Good Morning Friends,

Still warm where you are? It is here, goodness! I am so ready for cooler temps. This past weekend Lauren came home for fall break. She only gets two extra days. She wanted to go to Jungle Jim’s in Cincinnati, so we took her. There were a lot of people and a lot of things to look at! Oh my goodness! I really wanted to get some seasonings, and we picked up a few. Overall, it was a great experience. Lauren loved it and it was a great way for me to hit the outlet mall. I must say, I am not sure if outlet malls are for me anymore. I can’t find much there anymore. I look for specific things now and my taste must be too old fashion. Oh well…. 

I am still having my self-care appointments despite the shutdown. I shared on my blog a while back how I try to live during these times. It is always hard, but I try to wait and trust in the Lord. The good thing about my upcoming appointments is that most were birthday presents so they are already paid for! A few weeks ago, I did go and have my very first brow lamination appointment. 

 

 

These are photos of my eyebrows before. They have been thinning out for years now because I used to shape them with a brow razor. I have been trying to slow down to allow growth, but I think I may need a little assistance. Plus, I am tired of filling in my eyebrows every morning. As you can see in the photos, they are very light, and I don’t have very long eyelashes either. 

I started my hunt a few months ago and found Meraki Artistry.  She has so many brow services. I was thinking about getting the nano brows but was not ready to make a commitment so soon. I reached out to her, and she was so nice and so knowledgeable. She is also a nurse! She explained the process and payment options. 

 

 

But then I spotted the brow lamination service, and she explained how this will give you the nano brow look without it being permanent and a little more affordable. It gives you the opportunity to see how they would look if you wanted to go permanent. Above are my eyebrows after the treatment! WOW!

 

 

Honestly, they don’t even look the same. I have had them for about 3 weeks, and I still love them. Now Char puts a perm-like coating on your eyebrows. This trains them to lay down and brush in the direction that you want. I could not wash my eyebrows for 2 days but that is okay. For upkeep, I have a few small eyebrow brushes, and I lightly brush them with organic castor oil. Castor oil has been known for helping with eyebrow and eyelash growth. 

I will be going back in November for a second treatment and will continue until I see the results that I am seeking. I am enjoying being in this pocket of life. I love trying new things (that are in my arena) and having time to explore. I will update you all in the future regarding my eyebrow and eyelash journey. 

Take care! 

 

*Affiliate links attached; this post is not sponsored. 

 

 

 

Perimenopause the Journey Continues…

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Hello Friends,

How is everyone doing? This past weekend was nice. I took it easy and went to a friend’s daughter’s wedding. I had a great time with my Guild Girls and my hubby. We ate, drank, and laughed. On Sunday, I went and did something. So I have been working on “building my life team” and I started looking for someone to help me with my eyebrows. I went on a search for someone and found Meraki Artistry. I will be sharing my eyebrow lamination experience soon!  

I wanted to give you all an update on my perimenopause journey. I wrote my first blog post about it last year in July and the journey is continuing. Here I am a year later, a little smarter, and a little more patient. So what has been going on this last year?

Well, I stopped the hormone pills, and I did go to the dietitian for almost a year.  For a year I was working with my dietitian, and I recently decided to take a break. I learned a lot about what foods would work for me in this time of my life and protein. I took lots of blood tests this year and learned that my protein was too high! Oh great another worry. Also, I loved my dietitian, but a lot of these weight loss companies are really pushing these weight loss medicines. I think they are great, but I just keep thinking, “I can’t stay on these all my life and the weight will come back eventually”. So far now I am working on keeping my carbs low and trying to focus more on eating protein whenever I do eat. My dietitian was wonderful and hope to go back to her soon. She is still a part of my life team. I am not on any diet medicines at this time. 

I have added strength training to my workouts, and I am still walking. I love my morning walks and cannot live without them. I am taking more strength training classes at my Pilates studio, and I am really enjoying them. What I am also working on is eating less at dinner. I must admit, I can eat more at dinner and it’s not good. So that has been my focus lately. 

 

Me in Washington, D.C. a few years ago. 

 

Have any of you heard of Midi? My dietitian mentioned them to me earlier this year and I do remember Jennifer L. Scott discussing them in one of her videos. At first, they did not take my insurance, so I decided to wait. But then I got an email that they did so I called and made an appointment with one of their perimenopause doctors. I took some blood tests and discussed my hormones, weight gain, hot flashes, headaches, sleep, and mood swings with the doctor. Of course, she said that I am in full blown perimenopause! I knew that! We decided that I would try birth control pills again and those made me feel worse! So I got off of those quick! I then decided to try HRT. I am now using an estradiol patch and taking progesterone at night. I feel a whole lot better I tell you and I am sleeping! I will be meeting with my doctor from Midi in a few weeks (this will be my third appointment) to discuss some more things from my blood test, but my protein has dropped! So that was happy news. 

 

 

Photo credit: Mrs. Shockley 

 

Life has become a journey for sure. Other items that I am focusing on are my thoughts. I heard a comment recently from Joyce Meyer’s Podcast called Talk it Out. She recently had a doctor on her show called Dr. Axe and he said some things in the first 5 minutes of this podcast that I just have to share!

“When I look at medical conditions for today, I think about half of it is diet or food related. That’s a big piece but I actually think that stress, spiritual, and mental health is equally if not slightly more impactful to our physical health and that’s very true of specific conditions. I’ll give you an example of how this cascade works with hormones. Like the hormone that most affects other hormones in the body is cortisol. And so, if you are stressed and living in a state of fear and worry and you don’t believe that God is a good father and that he’s going to be there for you and protect you; then you’re living in a constant state of insecurity, and your cortisol is higher. When cortisol is high that causes insulin to go high. Now your blood sugar when it is high that imbalances estrogen. And then the other thing that imbalances is then your thyroid hormones, T3 & T4. So having stress can be very disturbing to women’s health.”

WOW! You all should watch that podcast. It was very impactful, and I learned a LOT. I am one of those women who struggles with believing that God will take care of me. I will be honest. I am. So, this is something that I am working on and started with my Christian therapist last year. 

Another comment that Dr. Axe made was when your doctor tells you to stop stressing but they NEVER tell you how to stop stressing. He mentioned building things in your life that make you happy. That is how you combat stress, and he is right. That is another reason why I started going on and creating “elegant adventures” and started building my life team. If you need more life inspiration my blog post Tips for a Balanced Life may help and my How I Romanticize my Life Daily is other. 

Let me know in the comments below how you are doing on your perimenopause or menopause journey. I feel a little better this year than last and just hope that it keeps getting better. 

 

  • Affiliate links attached; this post was not sponsored. 

 

 

A New Toile Collection

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Hello Friends,

I had a really nice weekend this past Saturday. I received a message on TikTok (@Mrs..Shockley) regarding an antique store in Noblesville called The Annex by Thistle & Thyme and I went to visit this weekend. It was so lovely. I am in a point in my life where I only want to visit antique stores that are carefully curated. I don’t want to go to flea markets or antique stores full of junk. I have visited a few recently where I walked half of the store and just walked out. They were just full of junk and I have no interest nor time. 

I had a thought recently. I was repeating my morning affirmations while heading into work and I began to think about the word curate. I will explain it in another post. I promise. Last week I went to my first Indy Chamber meeting. The Indy Chamber is a non-profit organization that helps small business owners. They also have a Women’s Business Center and last week I attended my first event called Women and Wealth. It was a great opportunity to network and learn more about the organization. 

I also have lots of fun things going on this week. On Tuesday, I will be attending our Guild Luncheon to start off our next designer showhouse. I was recently added to our Supervisory Working Group for the Department of Justice which is a huge honor because it is so competitive. So that means my first meeting is this week. I have a Guild Director meeting, and my first Mahjong class is on Thursday. I am so excited! 

On Friday, our neighborhood is having its yearly fall HOA yard sale and then after that I am attending an interior designer workshop for Judy Bates Designs! It’s a fun and busy week. Speaking of interior design have any of you seen the new toile collection by Brandon Maxwell at Pottery Barn?

 

photos via Pottery Barn 

 

 

Can we say gorgeous? This showed up in my feed on Facebook and I just had to take a look at it. There are a lot of toile prints out there some are good and some (I think are really bad). I love toile with animals and nature. I believe that could go with your decor more.  This upholstered dining room set is stunning! 

 

photos via Pottery Barn 

 

I love this table skirt and reversible throw. The table skirt is not available on the website yet. I don’t know if it ever will be. If someone finds out, please let me know! Of course, the collection would not be complete with dinnerware and utensils. 

 

 

Ceramic pumpkins and vases are included in this beautiful collection as well. I love the combination of the toile and stripes. I think they flow together so well. I must admit the pumpkins were very tempting. I even love the doggie bed! Oh my goodness, so cute and chic. 

Let me know in the comments below are you a toile lover or not. Have a great weekend! 

 

 

  • Affiliate links attached; this post is not sponsored. 

 

What is “Hostingcore”?

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Well hello September!

My favorite month of the year! Not because it is my birthday month but because of all of the wonderful things that come with it. September always whispers autumn to me. I am trying my best not to rush this season but to actually pay attention to the days ahead. It is so hard with busy schedules, and work but I really want to make an effort. When our daughter was home for the summer, I was talking about something, and I can’t remember what it was. She then said, “be present”. Which of course is my phrase of the year. Being in this new season of life is requiring a lot of that. 

I hope everyone had a wonderful 3- day weekend. Goodness those go by so fast. I always want to get a lot done but I actually ended up watching the first Downtown Abbey movie from 2019. I really enjoyed it. Now I have not watched the series, but I intend on watching the movies. Looking at all of the decor and clothes always puts a smile on my face. Which made me think of a recent trend that I stumbled on months ago. Have any of you heard of “hostingcore”? 

 

 

My sitting room 

 

 

 

An article by Kate Lickert from Veranda Magazine described it as follows:

“With looming financial uncertainties and a growing desire to foster deeper connections, we’re entering a new era of entertaining at home. One of TikTok’s latest trends, hostingcore, embodies this design and lifestyle movement by encouraging you to transform every corner of your home into an open invitation. It’s not about hosting flawless soirées (who has the time or patience for that?). Instead, it’s about curating a space so warm and considered that guests feel at ease the moment they step inside.” 

Okay, now I like the sound of that and honestly try to embody that every time we have guests. I think the older I get the less fuss that I want in my life. 

 

My Thanksgiving tablescape from 2024

 

 

The article goes on to say:

“The hostingcore trend is casual in nature, but still inspires you to romanticize your gatherings (think: the kitchens and parties in Nancy Meyers movies). For example, the “good dishes” are meant for everyday use, the playlist is always queued up, and there’s always a chilled bottle of wine in the fridge. Hostingcore isn’t about being the perfect host; it’s about creating a thoughtful atmosphere and turning everyday moments into special occasions.” 

I would add that hostingcore is not only about preparing for these events but about everyday life. If you live this way with these items, then it’s no longer hostingcore but you will be living beautifully at your core. I think most of us who are in this space try to live this way every day. I love that this trend is happening and of course hope that it continues. If you want read the rest of the list click here. I also have a few elegant items on my Amazon list. You can shop it here. 

Have a great week!

 

  • Affiliate links attached 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

August Favorites ~ 2025

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Oh come on cooler weather! I really want cooler temperatures. This past weekend I was doing a few chores and felt myself sweat a little. I am trying not to rush the season, but it is so hard when you are burning up! I hope everyone is doing well. My husband and I went to another new restaurant for us. It was called Traders Point Creamery. The scenery was beautiful, and it was a very quiet and delicious dinner. I will share it on Instagram soon. Okay, now time for the most popular post on my blog, my monthly favorites!

 

 

I went antiquing recently in Franklin, Indiana and found a few beautiful items. I shared this on Instagram recently. The first is this large but outstanding bust that I found! I went down on a Saturday to shop then that evening I began to stew about this large bust that I saw. I could not resist. I had to go back and get her. Do you blame me? I found her at Fren Chic. 

 

photo credits: Mrs. Shockley

 

I also purchased these vintage replica pearl clip earrings from 1992 from Fren Chic. Then I popped on over to the Salvage Sisters which was down the street. As soon as I walked in, I saw this beautiful vintage chinoiserie table. They only wanted about $30 for it. I have placed it in my office and will use it around the house for whatever task I need. Then I walked around and saw this stunning red toile teapot. Pictured below. 

 

 

This cost me around $70. I was not happy about the price, but the size and color were marvelous, and I simply could not leave it there. I just couldn’t. Next up are my splendid Ralph Lauren Adrienne Wingtip pumps. These are practically sold out everywhere! I tried these on while in Orlando in June, but they were the higher heels, and I wanted a kitten heel. I found a pair at Macy’s, but I think Dillard’s is the last store to have the kitten heel version. I saw Lydia Millen trying on a pair in a recent video and I thought, oh well I am on trend! 

 

 

 

Next up is my new Estate Planner from Nikki Boyd. I also shared a reel of this on my Instagram. I cannot express how beautifully done this book is. I have always wanted a binder of some sort that explains in detail my wishes and provides my daughter everything she may need to plan my affairs. Get this as a gift for a loved one to begin that difficult conversation because trust me you should. After going through and dealing with my father’s affairs…. I just can’t express enough how important it is. 

Then my monthly dinners with my girlfriends is everything! Earlier this month we went to a Turkish restaurant here in my city and it was so delicious. I think I am in love with the appetizer tray. It had Hummus, Tabouli, Babaganush, Eggplant Salsa, Dolma and Ezme. It was a dream and so good! 

 

 

 

Flowers are still a monthly favorite of mine. Although I have not had a good selection in my stores lately this gorgeous bouquet of white garden roses came from Trader Joes. It was so needed and enjoyed in my bedroom! 

Then my team and I decided to have lunch at the small Cake Bake Shop in Broad Ripple. We all enjoyed it and had a wonderful time. I have not been to this location in years. Love the Eiffel Tower Ferris wheel in the window. 

 

 

 

Then lastly, I found a chinoiserie scarf from Amazon. I had to share it. It’s very elegant and the colors are perfect for the upcoming autumn season. Well farewell to August and happy September to everyone! I love September! The weather is perfect; it’s my birthday month and well it’s just a great time of the year. Have a great week!

 

*Affiliate links attached 

 

Senses & Sensibility ~ At Home

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Hello Friends,

Is anyone tired of the heat? I know I am! There have been several days recently where I wanted to sit out on my porch with a book and dessert but could not because it was way too humid! I have been so sad this summer season. I have not had one flower in my greenhouse. It has just been so unbearable in it. But I am hoping to have some help soon. I just finished the summer session on my Land Gardeners Create Academy lesson. I love it!

Well, we are about to close on August, and I am gathering my August favorites for next week’s post. But in the meantime, I hope you all enjoy this little snippet from Gracious Home- Cultivating a Spirit of Welcome from Victoria Magazine. 

This list comes from the lovely author Melissa Lester from Victoria Magazine.

Heighten feelings of serenity by looking beyond the aesthetics of your interiors to consider the entire sensory experience of being in your home.

  • Take a few minutes at the end of each day to tidy your surroundings so that you will awake to a welcoming environment. When time does not allow for following through on this suggestion fully, consider the one area that is most important to your sense of well-being and focus your efforts there.
  • Whatever your favorite genre, set a tranquil mood with soft strains of music. Slow and simple melodies with gentle harmonies promote relaxation.

 

 

Screenshot- via Pinterest (Aerin Lauder Dressing Room) 

  • Open your windows during a spring shower not only to reduce humidity and ventilate your home but also to savor the gentle pitter-patter of raindrops, along with the delightfully earthy odor know as petrichor. 
  • To infuse your home with a fragrance known for calming properties, turn to lavender, chamomile, or vanilla.
  • Stash a variety of soft blankets in different weights near conversation areas. 
  • Lend a sweet floral essence to clothing by tucking sachets brimming with potpourri into drawers and closets. 
  • Fill a pretty bowl with fresh seasonal produce. A bushel of apples adds autumnal color to the kitchen while encouraging a wholesome snack. 

 

Photo via Pinterest 

 

 

  • As it circulates the air, let an oscillating fan lull you to sleep with the relaxing sounds of summers past. 
  • In a glass atomizer, craft a signature fragrance by diluting a few drops of essential oil and a pinch of Epsom salts in distilled water. Spritzing pillows and bedding with the aromatic spray may inspire dreams of the garden. 
  • If you have a fireplace, set a table before the hearth for the coziest wintertime dinners. 
  • Add moisture to the air by simmering redolent ingredients in water or apple juice and refreshing the liquid, as needed, throughout the day. Consider citrus slices, fresh herbs, and spices for the medley. 
  • Savor the sensory of experience of making a pot of coffee- listening to the percolate, inhaling the brew’s slightly nutty aroma, taking that first bracing sip, and tasting its fresh roasted flavor. 

 

 

Photo credit via: L. Shockley 

 

 

A few of these I already do. I hope these provide some inspiration to add a little beauty to your everyday lives. Don’t be afraid to add a few things. Sometimes I think we get in our own way. Step aside and try at least one of these and let me know in the comments section below. I also have some new elegant Amazon finds on my favorites page.  Have a great week! 

 

  • This post is not sponsored. Affiliate link attached. 

 

 

Antiquing in Florida

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Hello Friends,

I am back from my work trip to South Carolina, and I really enjoyed myself. I went to a presentation skills class, and it was a great experience. I love being around people who are better than me. I find it to be so inspiring! There is so much that you can glean from someone who is better than you in something. You should not consider them to be an enemy but a teacher. Especially if that person is kind. If they are not, then that’s a different story. There were some great presenters as this training, and I am already looking forward to the next. This course helped us to focus on presenting in front of an audience, instruct classes, lead our teams, and put together PowerPoint presentations. I have already asked to be included as a facilitator in the next courses. I love being in this part of my life. I feel like I can finally participate in things and take risks.

Well let’s finish up my Florida adventures. I did find some boutiques to visit and antique stores. I have to have at least one antique store to visit while I am out of town. It is a must! 

 

photo credit: Mrs. Shockley

 

The first antique store that I visited was called the Antique Center on Alden Road. They don’t have a website so I could not link it, but it was the most beautifully curated store that I have ever seen in Florida! 

 

 

I had to stop and look at every corner and every detail. It was lovely and the owner was so kind. I wanted everything in the store. It was so good, and the items were such good quality. The prices were a bit high, but you can tell that this store carried quality items. 

 

 

I circled the store three times. I wanted to make sure that I did not miss anything. The owner did come from around the counter to talk with me. He took me to a space in the back where they had new inventory to price and place inside the store. He showed me this china set. I fell in LOVE with it! It was not priced yet and he had just purchased it from an estate sale from a widow who had recently passed way. Her home was worth $12 million dollars! This was one of her china teacup sets. It was from Tiffany & Company and was called the Audubon Limoges. I quickly looked it up and found this! So beautiful but so expensive! 

 

 

 

I purchased a vintage brooch from this store. When I left noticed that this little area had a few shops around it to visit. The next store that I went to was called Bamboo & Foo. It was a really pretty store. Lots of color and beautiful antiques as well. There was a nice couple there assisting and helping out. I purchased some vintage tassels for my ginger jars in my room.

 

 

Once I left that area, I found a clothing boutique store called The Primrose. It was a cute little boutique that sold clothing, baby items and home decor. I purchased this blue and white clutch from there. 

I had a nice “mom day” shopping around and looking at antiques. I needed a day away from the park. It was just too much for me. It’s amazing. We went to Florida in June, and it is August already. Goodness time is just flying by. Have a great week!