Coffee & Chit Chat

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.

Read my post about this pursuit! 

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.

If I was shopping I'd scoop up this dress - these jeans and this top!

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

Lady Who Lunches

 Lately I've been working to be more intentional in spending one on one time with others. 

One way has been by adding more lunch dates to my calendar. I find sitting down mid day is a lovely way to catch up and share quality time.

Note: this does take effort and everyone has full plates ... but I believe that time with one another is an act worth pursing.

Here's why I believe in being a Lady who lunches ...

PERSONAL

A table for 2 creates an atmosphere of sharing that's personal and specific to those two ladies. You can catch up on the mundane, the overview, the secrets and have private space to share the hard.

Tip: Have the treat! My Mamma inspires me to let down my crazy nutritional guards and enjoy the sweet things in life. I love her so much! 

LIGHT

one of my favorite lunch spots is 

on the Ocean Course at Kiawah Island with Ryan each Summer

Lunch is often a much lighter fare and can often be best served at home! 

It's also literally lighter and weather permitting you can often dine outside. 

I believe whole heartedly that sunshine is the best medicine!

I dare you to try not to laugh your entire lunch under the sun!

TIMELY

Practicality is important and there never seems to be enough easy or convince. Whether you're working, wrangling littles or pulled in various directions - we all have to eat. Lunch can be incorporated during work & school hours, it's typically a faster meal and if need be welcomes littles with some crayons/toys.

CASUAL

You can come as you are straight from activities, errands and even the chit chat can even be on a smaller level. You can even make it a working lunch and tackle tasks together.

Note:  since this is a treat for me I do enjoy dressing up a bit :)

BLESSING

My Mamma & Me on a Lunch Date

Quality time is blessing! It's a gift to be cherished. When I think on times that I was invited to lunch, I felt special and valued. It opened a door to encourage, support & love one another.

Time with my sister is always a hoot!

Dress Beautifully as a Lady Who Lunches

XOXO Sarah Louise

Secret Valentine

Happy Monday! Valentine's Day is nearly a week away and I have to share that it's one of my favorites to celebrate. My Mamma always made it such a lovely day for us growing up with candy, flowers, outfits, jewelry etc... and I want to do the same for Vivian.

But she's not the only love in my life, in fact Ryan was first (but he doesn't give a rip about Valentine's Day) and I have my sisters, gal pals and my Mamma that now I can take a turn to gift. 

I'm going to share with you the BEST gift for Valentine's Day BUT it's a secret .....

Sidenote: Vivian loves to keep lots of secrets! She says she only wants her & I to know about where we go and what we do. It's pretty sweet but also a bit challenging when Daddy or her bff want to know about her day. I on the other hand am practically bursting to share with my gal pals the happenings of my days!

I saw this last week and it really really excited me!

Credit: @thelightblonde

THIS gals, is better than chocolates, flowers, jewelry or a card! 

I prayed over who this specific person should be and I've been intentionally lifting her up throughout my days. I've  even found myself grinning when I talk to her because I know of my secret prayers! I'm still praying for other loved ones but I'm finding this act of love very special.

I really want to do this every month of the year! How sweet would that be?!!

Dress Beautifully in Secret Prayer

XOXO Sarah Louise

Lift Me Up

Sometimes I need a little help? You? I can forget that easily as I'm always lifting, holding, and caring for my darling, husband and others. We all need a little boost to see things better, encourage us to keep going and steer us back on the path. 

Here are some ways we can lift each other up ...

1. Scriptural Encouragement - there's enough worldly opinions out there to drown you but the truth of the word will always be right. Giving each other biblical truths is better than any motivational quote or insight we could ever come up with.

2. A Listening Ear - gracious I have lots to work on with this one (I'm a talker!) Listening is such an impactful way of being there for someone. Giving another the space to share without interruptions, judgements and directions shows that you value them and what they are experiencing. 

3. Laughter - Enjoying the blessings around us sheds light on darker times. The good with a side of humor can soften the severity and our perception on the whole thing. Adjusting our feelings helps us see the facts for what they are. Laughter is extremely contagious and best spread to all! 

Let's praise each other without jealousy, love without judgement and be generous without keeping score. 

Dress Beautifully Lifting One Another Up

XOXO Sarah Louise

Sidekicks For Life

My literal sidekick! 

I spend most of my time with my darling Vivian Louise, and gracious is she fun, precious and loves me unconditionally; I also have Ryan, my soul mate and husband forever, my Mamma & sisters …. Family is just a category of its own when it comes to people in your life.

But they’re not my only loves. 

I don’t know about you but I get by with a little help from my friends. 

Being a friend and having friends is important.  They bear your burdens, make you laugh and encourage you along the journey of life.

I find that there’s a unique bond between women. We feel seen with each other. 

I want to be a friend  …

That Gives Grace

We all want the benefit of the doubt and forgiveness so let’s give it. We all say and do things that aren’t ‘just so’ but remembering another’s heart and intentions smooths over the misstep.

That Prays

Advise and opinions can be helpful but there’s nothing like the power of prayer for your pals.

That’s Trustworthy 

As women, our tongues can get us in real deep trouble. Confiding in one another without judgement or gossip is extremely important. 

That Asks

Invest in the happenings of other’s lives out of genuine care and celebration. Leave out the curiosity and comparison. 

That Laughs

Enjoy one another in our uniqueness with fun and laughter. Life can be heavy making the amusing times that much more important.

Dress Beautifully in Your Friendships

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Mamma Monday: Cheer Squad

They say it takes a village to raise a child, I say it takes one to raise a mother. 

Friends are important. Call them a tribe, gang, village, posse, homies, or what I use, cheer squad! We aren't made to journey alone but rather God gave us one another to bear each others burdens, celebrate the blessings and to love as He loved us!

When Vivian started preschool at just 21 months old I heard about a group called 'MOPS', Mothers of Preschoolers. It's national so if you're a mother of young children, I encourage you to look to see if there's one that meets near you. I was hesitant but knew deep down I had to try. I was LONELY! I was LOST! I had decided to take a break from my career to be with Vivian and had no clue how to navigate this new season.

I remember picking out my outfit to meet these new gals for our first meeting, being nervous about what I'd say and what they'd think of me. Turns out they're all Mammas doing their best just like me.  We are all so unique that it makes for well rounded perspectives and lots of laughs! 

It's been 2 years now with this group of Mammas and despite the circumstances we've stuck together meeting virtually, in backyards and even in a parking lot. 

I want to share with you just a few pieces of encouragement I've received from my MOPS cheer squad ...

1. Have Fun 

Life is to be enjoyed. Make sure despite the responsibilities and to-do's you have fun. Children are a lot of work but they're also a lot of fun. Do the things that make you smile and laugh. 

2. You're Doing God's Work

Raising children is challenging. Give it ALL to Him for strength, patience, endurance and guidance through it!

3. Chose Joy Over Perfection

Let's be real, I'm a type A person that thrives in control and within my perfectly defined schedule. I'm literally giggling because life just doesn't go they way I plan it to. It's not picture perfect, but it is perfectly & purposefully designed for me. A happy Mamma who chooses to do things that bring joy over an expectation of how & what things should be shares that joy with her family. 

4. Give Grace

Give grace to yourself, your children and to others! 

5. Do it ALL in Love

Whether it is the chores, errands, playtime, or fellowship, fill your words and actions with love and gratitude. Think about it with the perspective that you 'get to' rather than 'have to'. Be a blessing to those around you. Share God's love!

Dress Beautifully with Your Cheer Squad

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Virtual Coffee Date

Good Morning Gals! 

While we may not know each other in real life and even if we do, Lord knows face to face time hasn't been an option for a year now #tear I thought I'd do my best and pretend we were having a coffee date. It's a little one sided with me just chit chatting at you but I'm hoping you'll write me back and share what you're up to lately ... dressbeautifully@gmail.com 

So come, sit down for a spell and let's virtually clink, cheers and catch up with a cup ...

Currently I'm ...

Sipping - A large cup of dark roasted black coffee.  I grind 1/4 cup of beans in Ryan's Grandpa's old grinder and sip it piping hot, that's essential! Adore our simple, classic large mugs. 

FYI: French press is the best.

Coffee is one of the only things I enjoy consuming.  (I don't give a rip about food) 

Rising - at 5am for a couple hours of solitude & productivity before my darling wakes.

Reading - His Word each day, often throughout the day.  Its promises haven't failed and I've been filled with His grace & mercy each hour.  When I get into the Word it gets into me and changes everything about my heart and the life I'm living. 

I'm also putting my to-do list aside and reading books I've been meaning to crack open for months in our backyard hammock several days a week now that the weather is warmer. #noregrets

Relating - to Cameron Wimberly's book 'One day you'll thank me' and laughing along.  I too was hesitant to have a child and struggled with the decision  to leave my career to choose to be home with my daughter.

I also am content with only having one child. 

Working - hard at my workouts to get stronger and faster!

Listening - to 90's & 2000's jams while I sweat ... it's the good stuff from my glory days and while it may not be edifying it pumps me up.

Striving - to make this space a place of encouragement. 

Ministering - to middle & high school young ladies as a Sunday school teacher. I've been teaching every Sunday for 5 years now and boy do they bless my life! Of all the 'jobs' I've ever had this one is the most rewarding! 

Loving - the Spring time weather and longer days!!!!! ALL the things outside.

Looking - for patio furniture that doesn't cost a fortune.  We want a sectional sofa that is high quality and will last us years.  And it must be comfortable. 

Waiting - for vacation! Beyond excited to be toes in the sand with my gal pals in 6 weeks.

Deciding - on my next decor project! We recently finished a renovation that included 6 rooms (sharing detailed posts soon) so I'm resting now but I know I'm going to get a wild hair to change something up.

Organizing - my closet. It's time to store my winter clothing and bring out Summer!

Wishing - for this clutch for my birthday present.  I'm 38 next month (I totally feel 28!) 

Avoiding - my huge picture project! I have an embarrassing amount of pictures over the past 3+ years that I need to sort through, digitally organize, upload into books and print. Sigh it's so overwhelming I don't even know where to start ... so I haven't UGH 

Craving - Watermelon out on our back patio under the warm sun!

Enjoying - running outside in the sun and seeing all the trees and flowers blooming

January 2020 - far too long ago

Wanting - a date night where I'm can wear something sassy (not church appropriate) and cheers my husband in a dim room with good food and zero distractions, sooooo bad! 

Trying - to drink more water #thestruggleisreal

Giving - as many kisses to my darling girl as I possibly can! 

Struggling - with Ryan's work schedule. He practices medicine in the Emergency Room.  He's working long shifts and a great deal of overnights at the hospital with only 3-4 days off each month.  This does not allow for a lot of time together and is taxing on him (and us).  

Practicing - gratitude, everyday. Despite the circumstances! I am blessed beyond measure and thank God for all that He's given and allows to happen. I know He will provide, protect and is always present.

Watching - eh this is a tough one. I rarely watch tv and frustrated with Netflix b/c everything is so overly inappropriate. I really enjoyed the shows 'The Crown', 'Steel Magnolias' and 'Firefly Lane'.

Indulging - on Halo ice-cream.  I buy one pint a week and have a few spoonfuls a few times a week. Chocolate, strawberry and sherbet are my favorites.

Missing - fellowship with my gal pals. It's heartbreaking not spending time in each other's presence. I love to hug on them and connect on the happenings of our lives.  I'm beyond grateful for texting, calling, zoom gatherings and FaceTime calls (my preference) but none of them are the same as gathering in person.

I use time driving to chit chat

Sharing - laughs and stories with my gal pals via text or calls throughout the day/week when I can. I have so many long distance and I appreciate that we don't let that get in the way of staying in touch.

Eager - to dye Easter eggs with Vivian for the first time in a couple of weeks with her cousins. Outside of course!

Grateful - for my many many undeserved blessings! God is so good, God is so good, God is so good, He's so good to me! such a sweet sweet and true song

Crashing - no later than 9 (see rising above) most of the time by 8:30

I order up a second cup after lunch & enjoy it with the company of the birds and sunshine as often as I can

I encourage you to try and have a coffee date with those you hold dear, whether it has to be virtual or over the phone or better yet try and meet outside somewhere.  Even if you're distanced the relationship will grow closer!

Dress Beautifully on a Coffee Date

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Together

It's so great to be together this Tuesday, virtually that is but still truly it is great! I missed my 'Mamma Monday' post yesterday and you know what? It worked out perfectly because the more I thought about it the topic it really is for everyone and after yesterday I have new thoughts to share that I wouldn't have before.

I want to share with you the importance of fellowship. Having friends isn't about having the coolest 'squad' or 'tribe' ugh social media can add pressures and expectations and just lies about life! It's about having sisters in Christ to bear each others burdens and to 'show up'. God did not create us to live in solitude but to commune together.

As hard as it was in high school, it's just as hard as adults to develop friendships. And with the seasons of our lives relationships look different and often some end.  Let me say this, the world shows us an ugly picture of what friendship looks like (real housewives of ...) but IRL they are full of encouragement and love.

In my 20's and first half of my 30's fellowship happened so freely whether it was shopping, dinners, workouts or even weekends away. As a Mamma I have found that fellowship is planned (nap times and babysitters rule) and take place on playgrounds, in our homes and occasionally out on the town and gracious those nights are exciting!

God uses people in your life for his purpose. And liking each other's posts on FB and Instagram is NOT fellowship. There is great reward in face to face time.
It's challenging at any age. Everyone has responsibilities.
FYI: I HATE the phrase 'I'm busy'!!!

Here are some ways to incorporate fellowship in your life:

Join a Nonprofit / Volunteer
     I joined the Junior League of Charlotte back in 2009 and love it more and more each year.  It's rewarding giving back to my community in so many ways, I've developed leadership skills and met so many wonderful ladies along the way.  I also contribute to 3 other nonprofits in my area.

Find an organization that matches with your interests.

Participate in Gym Classes / Exercise Groups
     I love taking classes at the gym.  They're challenging and keep workouts exciting.  You can also make friends!

Sunday School Class & Bible Study
    Participating in Ladies ministry has been the most impactful and encouraging aspect of my life. We gain so much from each other as we study.  And the food these Southern ladies make is always a treat! That's saying a lot because I'm the farthest thing from a foodie. When it's my turn to bring a dish I definitely purchase from a local store. BSF is a wonderful bible study that's national.

MOPS
   I just recently joined MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) and LOVE it! The gals all live close and most have children at Vivian's school.  We're all in the same boat and it's nice to support one another in this season. It's a national group too!

I've also met other Mammas at story time/library, at the pool and through preschool. Don't hesitate to exchange phone numbers when you meet someone you connect with. It's not creepy it's friendly.

Whether its a bunco group, book club or trivia team, just fellowship!

You can't love on others or be blessed by others hiding in your room with Netflix.
You won't be lifted up and encouraged through the joys and hardships of life by yourself.

Before you were a mother, a wife or professional you were a woman created by God to glorify Him in great ways.  Make fellowship one of those!

Dress Beautifully in Fellowship

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Mamma Monday: The Art of Love

To my dear Mamma gal pals,

I shared with you on Friday that I have wept over the loss of a dear friend.  She was a sister in Christ. She loved the Lord and I was able to share in worship with her as we are members of the same church.  She also has a son 6 weeks younger than baby Vivian Louise so we spent all of last year caring for our babies in the 'Mother Room' during the church service together.

I am sharing this heart break with you because I want to encourage you to love one another. It is important that though our days are full of to-do's and responsibilities (I refuse to use the word 'busy' because I despise it - like who isn't 'busy'??!!! everyone's time is valuable regardless of what may appear) that we take care of one another. Check on each other and offer uplifting words.  You could even take a moment to gift someone a meal, a cup of coffee, flowers, a sweet candle or tea. If you're really feeling generous and going for the 'friend of the year' award you could offer to watch someone's kids for a bit.

My friend and I used to enjoy going to estate sales together and vintage shopping.  We both loved fashion but her creativity lived in actually designing and sewing her clothes. We also both shared in our love of eggs and breakfast.  In my home are scattered memories of her in my closet from the pieces I bought with her, in the vintage birdcage on the shelf in our bedroom and in the grand gold mirror hanging in our entryway both of which I found with her.  I'm so happy I see these things everyday and can remember her beauty!

We are to "with all humility and gentleness with patience bearing with one another in love" Ephesians 4:2

We can not be the fix for others hardships, but God can. God can use you to help heal, love and bless others.

Maybe you're the friend that needs the support - lean on your sisters!

We are all broken living in a broken world so lets link up arm in arm because together we are stronger and no match for the negative.

I miss my friend and I hurt for her family.

A student in my Sunday school class had seen me cry and hurt over this loss and painted this watercolor of her and I.  I wept again when he gave it to me. The sorrow was a little less though as it brought joy to my heart.  He helped me heal and smile. I will frame and display this in my home and she will forever fill my world with beauty.

I hope and pray this little blog of mine finds and blesses someone!

Dress Your Heart Beautifully in the Love for Others

XOXO Sarah Louise