Late last year a new Ralph Lauren store and a mobile Ralph's coffee truck opened here in Charlotte. I personally love visiting them both! There's something sweet about sipping a cup of coffee and something even sweeter doing it with someone else.
Life is full! But one of my favorite things to do is slow down, sit down and share life across from a friend.
First, you greet each other with a great big smile and a squeeze!
Second, it's always nice if one gal makes it her treat.
Third, fill your chit chat with questions, an attentive ear and words that are truthful, good and useful.
If we were having coffee here's what I'd share ...
Image The Southern Gail
she's a fav follow
I've got some beautiful house projects on the horizon. I'm adding molding and wallpaper to our formal living room and up the stairs then through the hallway. Stay tuned!
And FINALLY I've selected a wallpaper for our powder room! It's been years of searching, ordering samples and debating. I still have to choose a classic molding for the lower walls but the upper is going to be a fun statement!
And on the topic of home projects, we are hoping to create two new outdoor living areas before Spring that include a permeant fire pit and a large outdoor dining area with a pergola!
Work has been at it's fullest this month but sweet puppy Trixie keeps me good company!
Speaking of hard work, I've cooked so many new meals this month and to be honest I'm both proud and exhausted with it.
Wednesday is Ryan's birthday and I've been counting down to a night out, just us two all gussied up, to cheers and celebrate the gift of him for another year.
We have our Spring and Summer trips on our calendar and they have me so excited and already thinking about what I'll wear! There's something special about the outfits you pack and wear on vacation.
On the topic of trips it's been a dream of mine to visit Europe but I've minimized it over the years. Last year at my 40th birthday my dear friend encouraged me not to dismiss or put off what may be possible. That we don't know the future and often we can make those dreams come true.
Ryan and I are discussing a trip to Europe next year as a celebration for our 15th wedding anniversary!
More exciting news: I hit a lifting PR last week at the gym!! I'm continuing to challenge myself to be my strongest, fastest and overall healthiest.
I'm hopefully in the last few months of Invisalign for my teeth and I can't wait to wear creamy lipsticks and lipglosses again! They smear all over the plastic so I'm limited to matte stains which is hard in the winter. I have been wearing lanolin on my lips at night to help with dryness.
I really really miss my Mama! I got the flu at the start of the new year and then she did and so many things have gotten in the way of visiting her.
I decided to fast from spending for myself from December until at least March 1st. I've done this several times before and each time find it impactful. It increases my contentment with what I have and it even sparks creativity for styling my pieces in new ways.
Vivian is wanting a pair of high heels shoes so much so that she can look like me on Sundays for church! It's the most precious thing. I'm going to try to find an appropriate pair to give her on Valentine's day.
I received several puzzles for Christmas and have loved the quiet time working on them.
They're a great alternative to screen time, something I'm trying hard to minimize.
I have recently enjoyed watching the HBO show The Gilded Age! I also loved the book & show Lessons in Chemistry (my first job out of college was as a Chemist).
The ladies bible study I participate in has started back and I am absolutely thrilled with how much I'm learning, growing and loving the ladies in my small group.
Ryan gifted me a new Bible for Christmas and I smile at the sentiment each time I open it up :)
Last week I was privileged to celebrate one of my dearest friend's 40th birthday at a local tea house.
While it was her day, I found myself full of gratitude for the gift of her!
Whether you're out at a chic shop or in the comforts of home
I encourage you to sit for a spell with someone sweet!
Dress Beautifully for Coffee & Conversation
XOXO Sarah Louise
