Good Vibes

[d taylor]

I recall an article about a woman and her church attire during the lockdown. She appeared each week on Zoom wearing her best with hat in tow.

I remember seeing or hearing about her.

Washingto's 100 year old hat making lady

Mississippi's Red hat Society
red hat society mississippi - Google Search

 

[bèlla]

Afternoon Reading

Oftentimes I read in silence but sometimes I want a lighter mood and turn to playlists for inspiration. Light academia works well when you want to relax without napping. Romantic academia is great for early evenings or dinner.

 

[bèlla]

I remember seeing or hearing about her.

Washingto's 100 year old hat making lady

Mississippi's Red hat Society
red hat society mississippi - Google Search

​

That’s incredible. What a blessing! Thank you for sharing. ​

 

[JustSomeBloke]

I love a tranquil aesthetic. Lots of white, soft hues, and ambiance. I like an elegant environment that imparts a woman’s touch. Small courtesies you wouldn’t consider that transform the space.

Like the seating area in the elegant home tour. Few would do the same. But it’s a wonderful nook for reading or a cup of tea while the meal is cooking.

Yes. Shades of white make rooms feel larger, more airy, and more welcoming. White also makes best use of natural light for reading books. However, if you let a woman run riot in this area, you might end up with twice as many cushions as you need! Same applies to the bedroom, half the bed will end up covered in pillows! LOL!

That was a common technique long ago. Dance was another avenue for achieving it. Slouching was frowned upon and we were told to stand up straight. Corsets contributed to good posture too. They kept you erect and produced a lovely line.

Yes. A good dance instructor would correct poor posture, especially in ballet or ballroom classes, and if they knew you were intending to enter competitions.

This is hilarious. I’ve read them all save the first. He addresses the pros and cons honestly.

I Read a Self-Help Book Every Day for a Week
Helpful Humor

He makes some of those books seem like a total waste of money and reading time. Did he deliberately pick the worst bits? And it's interesting that he said trying to be perfect was tiring, but maybe that's because he tried so many things in one week.

By the way, did you ever read 'Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus'?

 

[bèlla]

Yes. Shades of white make rooms feel larger, more airy, and more welcoming. White also makes best use of natural light for reading books. However, if you let a woman run riot in this area, you might end up with twice as many cushions as you need! Same applies to the bedroom, half the bed will end up covered in pillows! LOL!

That's why I like it. I wasn't a fan in the past. But I wasn't home all day. Being in the space around the clock shifts your perspective. Creating in an environment that's airy and beautiful inspires me. Natural light, large windows, flowers, and candles. That's delightful.

I'm not a pillow girl. Decor is fine but I don't want it behind me.

Yes. A good dance instructor would correct poor posture, especially in ballet or ballroom classes, and if they knew you were intending to enter competitions.

We'd hear it at home and school. Charm schools were really popular. Many attended to learn etiquette. They covered walking, clothing, etc. Most were gone when I had my daughter, but I found a year long program and sent her there.

I'm a big proponent of social graces. They're easier to master when there's reinforcement.

He makes some of those books seem like a total waste of money and reading time. Did he deliberately pick the worst bits? And it's interesting that he said trying to be perfect was tiring, but maybe that's because he tried so many things in one week.

Some of his comments were spot on. I've read the lot including the extras. I didn't read the first but its on my list. Overall, I think self-help books are most beneficial for those who are disciplined. They'll apply what they've learned. He raises the issue of cost and I've seen the same in comments. Obviously, the author is targeting a demographic. But some feel alienated when suggestions are beyond their purse.

By the way, did you ever read 'Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus'?

Ages ago. I don't remember any of it.

 

[bèlla]

Light Academia Aesthetic Book DIY

The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance. —Proverbs 21:5

 

[bèlla]

The Making of an Old Hollywood Glam Doll

Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men. —Proverbs 22:29

 

[bèlla]

Marin Montagut Parisian Boutique
Handmade Art

 

[bèlla]

I Turned My Living Room Into an Art Studio

 

[bèlla]

Reading Woes

This is the worse reading year I’ve had since 2013. I’ve completed 12 titles. By now I’d have 60 or more under my belt. I can’t find my rhythm. I think the culprit is boredom. I’m not mentally stimulated.

I finished War and Peace in a week and plowed through 350 books in a year. Mostly classics. I planned to cover 100 and debated lowering the goal. But I’ve decided against it.

No wonder I’m drawn to academia! I was active in a few Goodreads groups in the past. The discussions were rich. I miss that. It’s an easy fix.

According to List Challenges, I’ve completed 14% of my Boxall classics goal. But the number may be wrong. I used an app to track my progress that’s no longer available. I’ll cross check it over the weekend.

For now, I need something good! I’m putting a few audiobooks in my rotation. Two classics and a mystery for good measure. That should do the trick.

 

[bèlla]

Cottagecore DIYs

 

[bèlla]

Top 5 Fountain Pens for Beginners

 

[bèlla]

Ways I Make My Home a Sanctuary

Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor. —Proverbs 21:21

 

[bèlla]

Mixing Face Powder: Retro Cosmetics

 

[bèlla]

How to Dress 18th Century: Robe a l'Anglaise

Lauren demonstrates getting dressed in an 18th century Robe a l'Anglaise (also known as an Italian Gown) from the 1780s, starting with the chemise, stockings, and shoes. She shows lacing the stays (corset), putting on accessories, skirt supports, and the final petticoat and gown.

 

[bèlla]

Getting Dressed in the 18th Century
Lady’s Attire Explained

 

[bèlla]

The Bridal Trousseau

So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom. —Psalm 90:12

One of the benefits of sewing is creating a bridal trousseau. They were typically established during youth and added to periodically. By the time she was ready to marry she had everything she needed. If you cultivate handwork in embroidery and knitting you'll have a collection of items to enjoy.

A modern trousseau might include the following:

• Linen napkins, placemats, and kitchen towels
• Potholders
• Throw blankets (light and heavy)
• Sofa, loveseat, and chair covers
• Table runners
  
• Decorative pillows
  
• Sheets, duvet and pillow covers, blankets, and quilts
  
• Bath towels/sheets, hand towels, wash cloths, and bath mats
• Throw rugs
• Linen or canvas shopping bags

Clothing wise, you may opt for boudoir pieces. A lovely gown and robe in a delicate fabric. Linen gown and pajama set. And lounge wear of course. The idea is to have a mixture of practicality and specialness in your selections. By doing so, you honor your spouse by demonstrating preparation and economy. The forethought is well received.

High ticket items deserve their own address. If you fancy china, silver or copper cookware, you may want to build your collection earlier. The same applies to dinnerware. Especially if you want a set with coordinating pieces or you're smitten with Le Creuset.

 

[bèlla]

10 Homemaking Secrets from Mrs. Beeton's Book of Household Management

She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. —Proverbs 31:27

 

[bèlla]

How to Make a Lemon Tart with a French Chef

 

[bèlla]

How to Get the Parisian Makeup Look in 10 Minutes
(in French)