Cute Outfit

Want to know what to wear today? Pull out a grey pencil skirt (if you don't have grey, then any color will do). They put on a white or cream tank, t-shirt or blouse. Top it off with a yellow marigold sweater/cardigan. Voila! Don't forget to wear some grey textured tights too. You can put on a pair of pumps or riding boots or cute flats. Accessorize with a gold chain necklace and a blingin' bracelet (preferably with rhinestones). You are ready for the day!

Gold Is IN! Or Are You Green with Envy?

Not only is the price of real gold soaring but gold is everywhere in fashion. 'Tis the season to sparkle with bold and brilliant accessories. You can find sparkly gold shoes or pumps or purses. Gold bracelets are exciting too. Emerald green is also making a splash in the fashion news. I just love the color of emerald green. Shoes, clutches, dresses, rings, anything that has that shade of green is a must have for the season.

Stripe It Rich

I just discovered a new combination--a striped t-shirt with a fancy skirt. You can top it with a jacket or a sweater. For some reason it looks very chic. Try any color of stripes. I think that textured tights add a finishing touch to it. Try it tomorrow and you might just like it.

How To Live Happy and Strong

Here are some of my tips on how to live happy and strong:

1. Go to bed early.

2. Get up early.

3. Get at least 8 hours of sleep per night.

4. Sleep on a silk or satin pillow case.

5. Smile every day.

6. Pray twice a day.

7. Drink lots of water.

8. Go to church weekly.

9. Play a musical instrument regularly.

10. Socialize.

11 . Moisturize with good lotion.

12. Exercise every day. (Minimum 30 minutes).

13. Read every day.

14. Laugh often.

15. Shower, brush, floss teeth daily.

16. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.

17. Deep condition hair weekly.

18. Get 10 minutes of sunlight a day (Vitamin D).

19. Celebrate the holidays.

20. Celebrate your victories.

21. Think positive thoughts.

22. Compliment someone every day.

23. Write in your journal daily.

24. Serve others.

25. Speak kind words.

26. Control your temper.

27. Don't smoke.

28. Don't drink alcohol.

29. Don't eat lots of red meat.

30. Don't drink any form of caffeine.

31. Incorporate whole grains and seeds into your diet.

32. Expect good things to happen.

33. Write thank you notes.

34. Eat homemade food.

35. Play a sport.

36. Have a clean home.

37. Take a multi vitamin.

38. Keep your mind clean .

39. Be grateful.

40. Stretch.

41. Give.

42. Write lists.

43. Grow a garden (even in pots).

44. Go on a family vacation.

45. Take lots of pictures.

46. Organize your life

47. Read the scriptures daily.

48. Take time to meditate.

49. Speak only the truth. Don't lie.

50. Admit that you are not perfect.

51. Accept others.

52. Don't participate in speaking ill of others.

53. Don't dig a pit for your neighbor. (Mean)

54. Worship Almighty God.

55. Don't swear or take the name of God in vain.

56. Try to live the Golden Rule.

57. Plant flowers. (Yes, even in pots if you don't have any land).

58. Tell your family and friends that you love them often.

59. Don't brag or boast.

60. Hang a wreathe on your front door.

61.Have lots of lamps turned on at night.

62. Set goals.

Ribbon Necklaces

A fun and easy way to add versatility to your old necklaces is to cut two pieces of satin ribbon and tie a knot at each end of your undone necklace. Then tie the necklace around your neck with the bow at the back of your neck or to the side. It extends the length of your necklace and makes your old necklace look new and modern. So simple!

Stylish Scarves

I adore scarves! They just polish off a look. If you wear a pea coat or a trench coat or any kind of jacket, a scarf adorns the outfit with completeness. You can wear a scarf with a T-shirt, too. There are several ways to wear a scarf. My favorite way is to fold it in half, wrap it around your neck, and slip the loose ends into the fold, adjust, and voila! Another way is just to droop it around loosely. There are many tutorials on how to wear a scarf. Just go for it! Start collecting today.

Sequins Are Everywhere!

Just got back from the mall. There is evidence of sequins everywhere. Good thing I just sold all of my sequin gowns, tops, and jackets at my garage sale this summer. I am feeling quite blue about it because Nordstrom is selling all sequin tops for a great deal of money. Even Down East has a fabulous sequin skirt for $44.00. I have seen sequins in shirts, tanks, gowns, dresses, hats, shoes, etc.. Now is the time to get at least one sequin piece for your wardrobe and then mustard up the courage to wear it. Everyone needs a little bling in their life!

Where Do You Shop?

It is so sad that the Nordstrom in our area is closing down. It was one classy store. It is where Rachel, my daughter, worked and was proposed to. Sales at top end stores are doing well while sales at the lower end of the spectrum are doing well. It's the middle class shopping havens that have struggled. As a result stores like Tiffany's, Ralph Lauren, Whole Foods, Coach, and Estee Lauder are doing well, while Target, Kohl's, and Gap are struggling. Discount stores like Costco, Dollar stores, and TJ Maxx are bustling with business. The unemployment rate for people with a bachelors degree or higher is 4.3%, less than half what it is for the whole nation.

The Lipstick Factor

The Lipstick Factor/Index is an interesting phenomena. Makeup is a cheap "thrill" for the penny pincher so when the economy is weak, most consumers cut back on most purchases except for the little luxuries like lipstick or nail polish. That's exactly what happened during the recession of 2001. Lipstick sales soared while the overall economy tanked. "The lipstick index" indicates more tough times ahead. Lipstick sales are up 14% and nail polish is up 54% which indicates bad economic conditions unless you manufacture makeup like Estee Lauder!

16 Updated Classics for Fall & Winter

Oprah magazine has listed 16 updated classics for fall/winter. Here they are:

1. The anorak with fur hood.

2. The knit poncho.

3. Bright pink saddlebag.

4. Denim shirt (fitted).

5. Metallic pencil skirt.

6. Gold tassel earrings.

7. Two tone pumps.

8. Color block sheath.

9. Full skirted dance dress.

10. Chain strapped purse.

11. Lace trimmed scarf.

12. Teal cable knit sweater.

13. Faux fur vest.

14. Matte gold bangles.

15. Python print trench coat.

16. Wedge booties.

My suggestion is to find these pieces for under $100 at TJMaxx or Ross or JC Penney.

Single Ladies--How To Be a Guy Magnet

Do you have single daughters or are you still single? It is so interesting to see why some girls can't even get a date while others have guys wanting to run down the aisle. So what is it that some women have that others don't? Some girls just know how to be a guy magnet. Listen up--Glamour has come out with a list on how to be a guy magnet. Here are some of the following suggestions: (along with my own ideas)

1.Go out looking for a fun time-not for your future husband. Some girls are so pickey that they won't even accept a date with someone that is not husband material. That is dumb because maybe if he doesn't have everything that you are looking for, he might have a room mate that does. Nothing is more appealing to guy than a girl who carries herself well and has confidence and acts like she is having a good time.

2. Never bash other women. Being catty will get you nowhere with guys. When you trash talk other females it makes you appear insecure. Someone else's strengths don't make you look bad--but being jealous and insecure does.

3. Be Easy Going. Guys are attracted to girls that they can imagine having fun with. It boils down to charm and ability to roll with the punches.

4. Don't dress for girls. Don't dress to impress the girls. Leave the rompers and maxi dresses at home. Put on a cute pair of jeans, a blouse or t shirt and some high heels and you are good to go.

5. Two Words--No Whining. It is so easy to complain and be Negative Nancy but don't do it. Guys hate drama queens. It is impossible to flirt if you're complaining all the time (turn off). Have a fun loving attitude towards life.

6. Be the person you would want to date. If you want all the bells and whistles in a man, than you had better have a lot to offer as well. If you don't want to date yourself, then how can you expect someone else to want to date you? Become someone you'd want to hang out with.

7. Let him see your ambitious side. Be busy. Guys like to know that you have interests and passions. Girls who are motivated to accomplish their dreams show drive and determination. Guys love those qualities. It shows that you are not just sitting at home waiting for Mr. Right to call. High quality men are driven to ambitious women.

8. Be scarce. Let him know who you are but make yourself unavailable. No hanging out!!! Just dates is all you'll accept. You are busy and in demand. Get busy! If a man has to choose between a clingy beauty and an unavailable average girl, he will choose the average girl every time!

Which Generation Are You?

Each generation has a name associated with it. If you are age 66-83, you are in the "Silent Generation". If you are currently age 47-65, you are in the "Baby Boomer Generation". If you are in the 31-46 age bracket, then you are considered to be in the "Generation X" category. If you are age 18-30, then you are in the "Millennial Generation". Researchers suggest that each generation has a different view on things...for instance the Silent Generation is much more traditional and most likely to vote for Mitt Romney as President. Even their shopping and spending habits differ according to each generation. Their views on social issues and even technology use differs greatly. This is important to know and be aware of. It is also important to dress appropriately to your age but YOU CAN ALWAYS LOOK YOUNGER than you really are!

Pretty Ponytails!

I just love ponytails! They are so versatile. You can wear them high, medium, or low. There is a way of achieving the perfect ponytail. First, completely brush out your hair. Secondly, get a comb and "rat" or back-comb your roots. Make yourself completely witchy with all of that backcombing. Third, brush gently through your hair. Fourth, gather your hair into your fist and secure with an elastic. Fifth, tighten your elastic and secure with a bobby pin underneath. There you have it!

10 Things To Do With a Bobby Pin

Glamor has come up with ten things to do with a bobby pin so here they are:

1. Make a side bun. Pin loose waves into a pretty chignon.

2. Add height. Back-comb just behind your hairline and pin to the crown of your head.

3. Zigzag pins. Place them in an "X".

4. Do a French twist. Twist a very low ponytail tightly upward and hide the ends.

5. Fake a no bang look. Twist your under longer hair and secure with a bobby pin.

6. Wear a halo. From a side braid, wrap the length around head and secure.

7. Pull up a topknot. Pin into a bun.

8. Hide flyaways. Work in some taming product and tuck loose ends.

9. Get a romantic "do". Part hair in the middle, twist each side back and pin the place.

10. (My Idea): Curl your hair with big, soft curls and put hair on one side, pin into place.

Want To Make More Money$?$?

Do you want to make more money (or your husband) so you can go and do more exciting things? Well, listen up....B.Y.U.'s economist, Arthur Brooks wrote: "In 1905 the famous industrialist John D. Rockefeller was quoted as saying, 'God gave me my money.' Now, that's sort of troubling to Christian people. God gave him his money? Some have used the quote as evidence that John D. Rockefeller was a bad man-that he believed he DESERVED to be rich when other people were poor. But that's actually not what he meant. A year later Rockefeller went on to tell a reporter from the New York American: 'I believe the power to make money is a gift from God...to be developed and used to the best of our ability for the good of mankind.' Rockefeller believed that he made money because he was charged with helping others. He honestly believed that if he stopped giving his money in the right way then God would take his money away. Entrepreneurs in this country are some of its most charitable citizens. For years I taught in a department of entrepreneurship and got to know modern John D. Rockefellers who believed they were rich partly because they gave. But, you know, I never believed it...."

Studies have strongly suggested that if you want to get rich you should start to give your money away. But, you are probably thinking, wait a minute, it is the other way around, Laurel, they got rich first and then were able to give! Actually the opposite is true. The more generous you are, the more wealthy you will become. When people GIVE more money away, they tend to prosper. They even found that people who donate blood or volunteer end up making more money than their counterparts! People who give to the poor or to charity are 43% more likely than people who don't give to say they're very happy people. Giving makes you rich, and happy, and more productive, and makes you a leader and produces healthier individuals. So, if you want to get richer and happier, start to GIVE!!!!!

The T's of Terrific Trends

There are some new terrific trends that all start with "T". They are the following:

1. Turtlenecks-they are making a comeback and can be seen as a sweater, a dress, a lace shirt all in turtleneck style.

2. Trench Coats-need I say more. Easy to throw over a t shirt and a pair of jeans. It completes a look.

3. Textured Skirts or Dresses-Tweeds, fabric with incredible texture and patterns or lace

4. Tiered Tops or Skirts-layers and layers of micro ruffles. It is so feminine and detailed

How To Get the Look of a Star

Have you ever wondered how the stars really achieve their looks? Believe me, they PAY for it! First of all get a spray on tan or go to Target and get some self tanner and apply but be sure to exfoliate first. Secondly, wear shape wear (like Spanx) to get rid of those unsightly bulges. Thirdly, take a fashion consultant (me) or a trusted friend to advise you on what looks good on you, clothing wise. Try on tons of outfits from home or from the store until you have found the perfect match. Fourth, grow your hair out or try clip on hair extensions. My daughter uses them all the time due to thin hair. They are miracle workers. Fifth, curl your eyelashes or wear fake eye lashes. They are easy to apply and cost practically nothing. Sixth, dress monochromatic like navy on navy; you can blend two shades together. This has an automatic slimming affect whereas wearing, let's say, a red blouse with black pants cuts you in half. Seventh, wear a higher heel. This makes you taller and leaner. Eighth, learn how to pose for pictures. Keep you feet close together with the left foot at 11:00 and the right foot is placed slightly in front in the arch of the left foot in a V position. Bend your knee slightly. Practice in front of the mirror especially with your head position. Now you look like a star! (Celine is posing the way I described but her dress is too low cut).

What to Wear on Thanksgiving

What to wear on Thanksgiving:

Let's Talk Turkey

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. I absolutely love the holiday. I love turkey, dressing, fresh cranberry sauce, gravy, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes, freshly baked rolls, butter (and lots of it), corn, jello salad, and pies in every shape, flavor, and form with miles high of fresh whipped cream (no cool whip)....oh....did I mention family around??? That is the best part. The guys love football and I am always worried about if I will gain any weight during the holidays. I like what Erma Bombeck said: "Thanksgiving dinners take eighteen hours to prepare. They are consumed in twelve minutes. Half times take twelve minutes. This is not coincidence." or "The only reason I would take up jogging is so that I could hear heavy breathing again." or "I've exercised with women so thin that buzzards have followed them to their cars."

True Blue!

I am a true blue (yes, I graduated from BYU-go blue) but I just love the shades of blue that are popping up everywhere--from pillows and blankets, wall/paint color, jewelry, dresses, dinnerware, purses, handbags, and shoes. Some call it peacock blue or teal blue. Teal blue looks great paired with grey. You can wear various shades together. Expand your wardrobe with some blue (think peacock blue).

Hudson Bay Wool Blanket

There is nothing more fabulous than a Hudson Bay wool point blanket. It is the hallmark of Canada. My dear sister sent me one for Christmas a few years ago. I had grown up with them in our home but never appreciated it until Flora sent me one, and when the weather falls, nothing is better than a nice wool blanket!!!! Neiman Marcus even decorated their front windows with the Hudson Bay wool blankets. I read that this particular blanket was found at the bottom of the ocean when a ship sank. The blanket was in complete tact.

Always Remember Who You Are!

Inner self confidence is so important! We need to always remember who we are--daughters of God! We should walk tall~we are daughters of Divinity. We can know within ourselves that we each have a purpose and a divine mission while living on this earth. We are NO mistake. God has a purpose for us and He knows each of us, and our struggles and our pains. I like what President Gordon B. Hinckley said: "We know not what lies ahead of us. We know not what the coming days will bring. We live in a world of uncertainty. For some, there will be great accomplishment. For others, disappointment. For some, much of rejoicing and gladness, good health, and gracious living. For others, perhaps sickness and a measure of sorrow. We do not know. But one thing we do know. Like the polar star in the heavens, regardless of what the future holds, there stands the Redeemer of the world, the Son of God, certain and sure as the anchor of our immortal lives. He is the rock of our salvation, our strength, our comfort, the very focus of our faith. In sunshine and in shadows we look to Him, and He is there to assure and smile upon us."

Four Easy Essential Pieces

There are four essential pieces that you can just throw on without even thinking. You know the times when you are in a big hurry and you have to look good but you just don't know what to wear. Keep these four essential pieces of clothing in the forefront of your mind so you can go to your closet, grab and go. The four essentials are the following: 1. The Jumpsuit-one piece and throw on a jacket. 2. The Trench Coat-in any color just throw it over a pair of jeans or pants. 3. The Wrap Dress-so simple and so slimming. 4. The Knit Dress-can be paired with a belt or boots and it always looks polished. (By the way, you just choose ONE of the four essential pieces to wear; not all four at once).

Happy Birthday Adalyn Hatch--You Are 1

Happy birthday little Adalyn. You are now one! I feel so blessed to be there when you came into this world. You are soooooooooo beautiful--I can't wait to see you again.

Turn Your Burdens Into Blessings!

Have you ever wondered why we have trials?? Why things don't always go our way? My daughter's teacher had her classmates write down (without their name) what trials they were going through. Then the teacher read them aloud without mentioning who went with that particular trial. It was a real eye opener to the class about how many difficult things the class members were experiencing. I believe that we need to be kinder to those around us because they could be going through a lot more than we realize. Now, how do we turn our own burdens/trials into our blessings??? Have you ever stopped to think that some of the hardest challenges make you grow more. You can always turn the ugliest situation around and think how it could be a blessing in disguise. I know of some poor college students who couldn't afford a phone so they had to write letters home every week. That developed their writing skills and helped them become authors and left them with a valuable history. What about a woman who finds herself alone after a painful divorce--she had to stretch and find herself and her own strength. Every challenge is a calling for becoming better NOT bitter. The inventor of Honda failed countless times and lost everything many times over. The inventor of Paul Mitchell products lived out of his car and gathered $600 with a friend to create shampoo and conditioner. He said he would never had gone anywhere without his poverty. Trials make us grow. Now think about your challenges and how they can be turned into your greatest blessings....The founder of Curves was in jail when he came up with the concept of an all-woman gym. Now what does this have to do with fashion? Think about your greatest flaw. Now concentrate on accentuating the positive things about yourself. Let's say you are just plain ugly--then you can work on having an incredible personality and talent. Let's say you have extra large hips--then you can play up your beautiful eyes. The list is endless...Oprah said: "Where there is no struggle, there is no strength."

Get Out of Your Comfort Zone!

Today I am going challenge you to get out of your comfort zone. This could mean driving a new way to school or to work. I just drove my youngest daughter to school and there were so many detours that we ended up on so many new streets and roads that I had never driven on. This is amazing considering that I have driven five other children to the same school over many, many years. I saw houses I had never seen before and neighborhoods that I didn't know even existed. Try a new hair color or a new shade of lipstick. How about trying a new form of exercise? How about doing your hair a completely different way. Let's say you always wear your hair down--try a fancy bun. Invite someone new out to lunch. Treat those in your life better. If you are used to wearing flat shoes, try on some high heels. Try a new recipe. Try to read a new book. Try eating breakfast for dinner. Try a new fragrance. Try on a new outfit. Layer your clothes a different way. Try a sequin tank under a casual jacket coupled with jeans. Try a new shampoo. Try wearing a scarf. Get a new hair cut or style. You never know what could happen.

Ten Years Younger

Sorry about that...just trying to prepare for Thanksgiving and Christmas especially for the married children and grandchildren that will only be here for Thanksgiving.... Back to looking younger. The wonderful book is by Charla Krupp and the name of her book is, "How Not to Look Old ". Here are some of her fabulous suggestions. I will discuss in detail more about each of her ideas...1. Cut some bangs. 2. Lighten your hair. 3. Tame those brows. 4. Chic up your eyewear. 5. Unmask your foundation. 6. Lose the heavy eyeliner. 7. Manage your wrinkles. 8. Put on pink lipstick. 9. Whiten your teeth. 10. Wear your own nails. 11. Unmatch your wardrobe. 12. Shorten your skirts (NOT mini). 13. Slip into the perfect pair of jeans. 14. Follow the three-bling rule when dressing for evening. 15. Learn to love shapewear. 16. Show some leg. 17. Step into "sexy" heels. 18. Putting it all together. We will have fun discussing her ideas...more to come....