Way Back Whimsy

As I write this I am watching How To Marry a Millionaire (Marilyn! Swoon!) and I am reminded of my deep love for the 50's and 60's era. Watching these fabulous actresses sit atop their rooftop patio drinking champagne in their circle skirts makes me truly wish I was alive back then. So all of this got me to thinking as to how much time as changed in so many ways. One of those things is manners. Isn't it amazing how little thinking of others has become acceptable? I think we all need a little work on our day to day manners. I am always looking for ways to better myself as a person both inside and out. In the Kate Spade book so appropriately titled "Manners" I came across 10 Gentle Reminders that I thought was a nice refresher.

1. Making others feel at ease is the essence of etiquette, yesterday and today. 

2. There are few words more elementary or more welcomed than please and thank you. 

3. Good moods are contagious. Hopefully, yours will be pleasantly catching. 

4. Be aware and considerate of personal space- physical, visual, and aural. 

5. Showing respect is a gift, one that costs nothing and is endlessly appreciated. 

6. Think of your tone of voice as a telegraph. To the listener, it speaks volumes. 

7. A short fuse does nothing but burn. Should you find yourself with one, steer clear of others.

8. Never underestimate the message that's sent by your poise and posture.  

9. Clothes count. Appropriate attire is not only respectful, its refreshing. 

10. Let common sense be your guide and graciousness be your goal.  

Now run along and enjoy your Friday, smile, and open the door for someone. 

Quick Organization

Being organized can be tough especially when you are constantly on the go. So here are a few "Fast Tips" to stay organized and start your week with a clear head.

1. At the start of your day make a small list of things you want to accomplish. I do this regularly and it really does make a big difference. It gives you a chance to prioritize.
2. Know what you are going to have for dinner Monday-Thursday. Personally this gives me so much clarity knowing what is going to be on the table that evening. That way there is no last minute running around finding a recipe.
3. This one might sound silly but make the bed every morning! I once read in a magazine to do this to start the day out right and believe me it works! When I forget to do this it makes an impact.
4. This is one I am constantly trying to achieve. Finish a task before starting a new one. By far I struggle with this on a daily basis, but I'm getting better.
5. Keep a calendar. MK and I use "Cozi" (www.cozi.com). Pink is me, Blue is MK, Orange is our company, and Green is all. We've used this for years and we absolutely love it. Keeps us busy folks very organized on a daily basis.

Now, go out there and seize the week and make it a wonderful one!

Candle Box

I am all about empowering other women, entrepreneurialism, and high quality and when I see someone being fabulous and doing great things I can't help but to talk about it. So I give you your next personalized gift for literally any occasion that you can think of! Candle Box! Not only do these candles have the best presentation, they smell fantastic as well.

Just a little info on them, they are 100% soy with no added color. Soy candles are natural as they are made from vegetable oil (soybeans). By using soy wax, it supports farming in the United States. Other waxes such as paraffin wax, is made from petroleum oil which increase C02 levels in the atmosphere. Furthermore, soy candles do not require chemicals to scent them. Soy candles burn 50% longer than other waxes. This is a reason soy candles are sometimes more expensive to buy. Soy burns cleaner and longer. Soy candles are non-tonic which is not true for other types of waxes.

See? Fantastic for everyone; even those hard working farmers. And since they have custom labels they are the perfect present for a wedding, baby shower, house warming present, really the possibilities are endless! 

To learn more about Candle Box check out their website at http://www.candleboxcompany.com or for inquires regarding special orders contact owner Leah Show at candleboxcompany@gmail.com