Lucky Duck Living

What Gives Your Spirit The Greatest Lift?

Thais Zoe — Wed, 16 May 2012 05:07:13 +0000

Italy? France? Spain? Nope. These beauties are made right here in the USA!

In developing the mission for Lucky Duck Living, there were several tenets that I’ve followed in developing the brand:

Premium Fit and Feel
Made in America
100% Organic Cotton
A portion to benefit domestic non-profit organizations
Complete customer satisfaction
Clever illustrations that make you feel happy when you wear a Lucky Duck Living tee.

Naturally, I am attracted to other entrepreneurs, designers and businesses that have a similar philosophy…

However, last month, when I wrote about buying American, I raided my closet and was SHOCKED to find that I did not have one pair of shoes made in the United States.

On the spot I googled and discovered Okabashi, which makes fun flip flops and sandals. Most, if not all, of their footwear is eco-friendly, lightweight, anti-microbial cast rubber. They come in loads of styles and colors…AND…their price point is very reasonable.

Okay, so that’s a great tip for casual wear, but what about leather goods?…dressy sandals?…shoes and boots? Classic, last a lifetime pieces?

Enter, Cydwoq (side+walk)

Their amazing shoes are literally engineered like a car’s ergonomics and a home’s architecture. In fact the founder, Rafi Baluzian, obtained his degree in architecture; with both he and his son Ari consistently designing outstanding shoe styles.

All handcrafted in Burbank, California, Cydwoq produces exquisite shoes, boots and sandals for men and women. I understand they have also recently added belts and handbags to their brand.

I have never met, nor even spoken with Cydwoq’s founder and designers. However, as I ready to launch my first Lucky Duck Living collection, I feel privileged to be inspired and encouraged by the good work they do.

And, while the tenets I set were independent of knowing these forerunners. It is in a sense a relief to know that I am not original in my aspirations.

American made quality comfy apparel with an excellent fit, eco-friendly processes and materials and supporting non-profits along the way are fast becoming the norm.

I am so very pleased that these ideas are more and more the basic platform, as opposed to the premium standard. If ever there was ever a trend worth following this would be it!

Might these thoughts affect the way you Shop? Work? Design? Sell? Contribute?

Have you started making adjustments in your lifestyle or business in support of your community, a better lifestyle or any particular devotion?

What works for you? What gives your spirit the greatest lift?

I look forward to hearing from and supporting you.

And, as always, I’m in your corner…

Love,
Thais

P.S. Five words: CLICK BELOW. SHARE THE JOY!

Crying Is Sometimes All That Makes Sense

Thais Zoe — Thu, 10 May 2012 04:10:33 +0000

Beginnings and Endings…

The Joy Blog is here to encourage you to discover the joy in your everyday life.

I write every post myself. And, while I have an editorial calendar, I’m never 100% sure what the week will bring. I defer to new awareness and new experiences to fuel and inspire my words.

However, today I feel utterly uninspired…

I filed for divorce last week. Where is the inspiration in that? Where is the joy in such an utterly sad and disappointing act?

While I stood in line waiting for my turn with the clerk, I noticed the sign for marriage licenses…the same place my husband and I were licensed to marry. Ugh!

Despite the grief that rose in my throat, I had an instinct to take a photo. A small voice in my spirit, said “don’t miss any of this.” Even when it hurts, it’s important to show up for it.

I took the photo, and a tear streamed down my cheek.

The clerk called me forward. I wiped my face and took my place at her window. She told me I had all the paperwork I needed, date stamped everything and gave me directions for the next steps to take.

She was kind, and I was grateful.

On the way to my car, I burst into tears and cried most the rest of the day. When dreams are dashed, and hearts are broken, crying is sometimes all that makes sense.

It’s now almost a week later. And, even though the reality is still working its way through my system, I honestly feel perfectly safe and protected. Not by husband, marriage or any one person, but by the grace all around me that has carried me through a very uncertain time in my life…and, all it asks is that I tell the truth about my experiences.

So here I am week after week sharing myself — including both challenges and victories. What a gift!

It is my deepest desire to be inspiring and hopefully helpful to you…and, you’ve given me the opportunity to be kind, authentic…and in turn, free.

I am very grateful we are walking this path together. Life can be unkind, people can be selfish and even cruel at times. But, how lucky are we that we get to tell the truth about where we’re at, no matter how messy it gets!

So, remember… whatever challenges you are facing; after the tears come hugs, then smiles, eventually laughter and ultimately joy.

Best of all…we get to do it togetha!

And as always, I’m in your corner…

Love,
Thais

p.s. CLICK here to subscribe to The Joy Blog Weekly and we’ll deliver a fresh post to your inbox every Thursday morning AND you’ll automatically be enrolled in our monthly drawing for a super fantastic Lucky Duck Living Tee!

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Is Your Ex Living Rent-Free In Your Head? Here’s How To Evict Them Once And For All!

Thais Zoe — Thu, 03 May 2012 04:01:42 +0000

Is it time to give your resentments an eviction notice?

Yesterday I was talking with a girlfriend of mine who has recently gone through a divorce. It’s been over a year since it was finalized. Her ex has re-married and she, too has “moved on.”

But, then a legal issue arose that required his signature, and she lamented…”I just want this to be over!”

I relate!

There are few things worse than lingering stress, heartache and resentments from a past relationship. I think we all would agree that bitterness and regret do nothing to move us forward to a happier, freer life.

But, what if you KNOW this, yet still can’t shake the feeling?

These are three key tools that are sure to help.

1st Own your part FULLY.

I was introduced to the magic of self-responsibility years ago….but, what if the other person is a liar, or a cheat…or humiliated you? What if you lashed out at them only because they started it by being mean to you?

Honestly, it was difficult for me to disconnect my behavior from theirs. But, I was lucky enough to have a friend who loved me enough to not just take my side out of loyalty, but to help me see the truth about myself.

My experience has taught me that justifying my bad behavior – no matter how small it may seem in comparison to another’s shortcomings KEEPS ME STUCK!

It took me a long time to acknowledge that I had been abusive towards my husband. From my perspective, he was the bully that made me unhappy and in turn I thought it was impossible for me to be kind.

The reality is; a person who is truly happy and kind to start with, would have responded much differently than I did to my husband.

2nd Identify how you’re still attached.

Once you’ve gone beyond your resentment to how you participated ask yourself these three questions:

a. Have I done to another what I am resenting my spouse for?

For example, let’s say your spouse was unfaithful and you are trying to put the marriage back together….you’re making progress, and then all of a sudden you find out they are still in touch with the “other woman.” Ouch!

Of course, you say, I would never do that! Perhaps not exactly, but, in your life have you ever kept something from someone, because you were afraid they would be mad at you? Have you had an “innocent” phone call with a work buddy or ex-boyfriend, that you withheld from your spouse. IF so your answer would be; “Yes, I have done to him (or another) what I am resenting him for.” Don’t try to quantify it. Your freedom lies in the balance.

b. How am I keeping this heartache or resentment alive?

Maybe you’re talking about it with everyone who will listen. Maybe you’ve become physically sick as a way of proving how much he’s hurt you. Maybe you simply refuse to/or cannot forgive him. You self-protect and get your strength from punishing.

Any of these fit for you? At one time or another, they have all applied to me.

c. Who is this pain and resentment harming?

Your answer could be any or all of these; myself, my (ex)spouse, my relationship with my (ex) spouse), my family, my kids, my relationship with my kids, my kid’s relationship with their dad, my employer.

I’m sure there are many more…but, you get the idea.

No matter how justified your anger, hurt and resentment may be, at a certain point you may want to ask yourself; is it helpful? “ Sure I’m entitled to it…and sure I can build a case for it, but is it helpful?”

Personally, my answer is usually a resounding NO!

3rd Let go of your resentment and pain.

Before your eyes roll back in your head in frustration, and you scream, if I could let go, I WOULD! I want to let you know, I understand!

There is probably nothing more painful than knowing that letting go, or surrendering is the answer, and then NOT being able to do so.

There are also few things less satisfying — nor more draining on our happiness — than intellectualizing forgiveness and living with the slow-burn of disrespect and one-upmanship.

If either of those are you, here’s the solution:

a. Pray for the NEED to be resentful be removed. Or, that the NEED to be unkind or punishing be removed.

How many times had I simply prayed for the resentment to be removed, only to find that another one popped right up? Praying for the “need” to be removed, is like pulling a weed out by its roots rather than just cutting it off at ground level.

b. Make amends for your part.

No…don’t tell your spouse, “I’m sorry for my part.” Own your wrongs (in person) for; harmful behavior, unkind attitudes, destructive actions, etc… without any context or justification for how you behaved. Own it, and acknowledge it to the other person. Let them know you see the error of your ways, and that you are committed to not being that person anymore. Get counsel, however, on making amends for things that they aren’t aware of, because this could be harming them all over again.

c. Be different.

Support yourself by whatever resources you have. Friends, family, God, exercise, etc… Strengthen yourself in being the person who has grown beyond past behaviors, attitudes and actions.

You may notice that one of the by-products of this process, is that your old defenses of anger, victim and ambivalence no longer control you. Instead, there may be a periodic and profound sadness that appropriately comes when a love relationship has ended. Feel it. Avoiding it can feed the need to get angry and resentful all over again.

Having personally been freed of a lifetime of hurt and resentment that came to a head in my marriage I encourage you — with my whole heart — to give yourself a chance at a new life. Better than beginning again… we can encompass a compassion for our mates and ourselves that wouldn’t otherwise be possible. And, in turn discover true joy and freedom.

And, by the way…this process is not limited to spouses. I encourage you to root out ALL resentment in your life!

Be sure to share this post with the links below…then let me know how much you want to be free…and what you’re going to do first!

As always, I’m in your corner…

Love,
Thais

And…if you want more…YES!…there’s more…check out our For Fun page!

How Do You Know Where Your Lessons Are?

Thais Zoe — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 01:28:53 +0000

Does your greatest teacher have four legs like mine?

My shweet pitbull, Vito, just turned one year old…

When he was about 4 months old his trainer asked me — regarding my pooch’s daily walk — “would you be going on the daily walks if it weren’t for your dog?”

My answer was no.

He then added; “…so, since you are taking the walks for your dog…make sure he has a great time!”

Hmmm….I hadn’t thought of it like that before.

I could see that the walks were indeed becoming “all business.” And, I could also envision that continuing on this track could easily build a heavy sense of obligation, stress, or even frustration when I felt rushed. And, no doubt, my pup would in turn feel cheated.

So, I tried it. It was tricky at first, because I can be all about time management, efficiency, and truth be told — at times — “what’s in it for me?”

But, I quickly found that even if he wanted to investigate the smells of the same bush for 5 minutes (which I don’t get at ALL)…there was still plenty of time for him to do his business and get a bit of exercise.

The second thing, I noticed that when I stopped pulling him away from everything he was interested and deferred to what made him happy…I was happier too.

I enjoyed myself more, I was more relaxed, and of course since our pups take their cues from us, he became more relaxed, too.

Of course, there is a time for discipline, especially when they are young and imprinting; but I really needed to make a decision to enjoy the process!

This got me thinking about my time with my 10 year old…what if I practiced being “all in” with him, too? Meaning, if I decided to do an activity with him – the trampoline park, for example – what if I let him call the shots? I did this, and, needless to say, it involved me jumping ‘til my calves cramped! But you know what?…I had the best time EVER! So much better than had I been sitting on the sidelines watching, or worse…texting!

This got me thinking about other areas of my life; family, friend and work commitments. What if I went “all in” for these, too? What if, I set aside any essence I had of obligation, and decided that if I decided to make a plan…the time would be about them?

I’m not talking about making ourselves a people-pleasing doormat, I’m suggesting that you will likely find more joy in the things you give yourself over to completely.

Whether it’s for another, or, for yourself;

Get involved. Get silly. Stay open…and, see what happens. You might surprise yourself!

I want to hear from you on this one!!! Yes, that means you!

And, of course, if you like this post…please share with the links below:)

As always, I’m in your corner…

Love,
Thais

And…if you want more…YES!…there’s more…check out our For Fun page!

Here’s How You Can Decide Where, When And Why To “Buy American!”

Thais Zoe — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 03:22:29 +0000

Can I afford to buy American?

Made in America! I’m all for it!

Why?

The remarkable Amelia Earhart once said; “Better do a good deed near at home than go far away to burn incense.” An interesting perspective from a great adventurer. Perhaps her travels deepened her appreciation for and commitment to what she had at home. Certainly, that has been my experience.

This is compounded by having an immigrant mother who loves America, and I in turn have developed a deep sense of responsibility to my home turf. Not to the exclusion of others, I love the richness of our world. But, my love of country is great.

Now, let me take an honest inventory of my fridge and closet. I’ll be right back…

I’m back. In my kitchen I found mostly products from the USA; basil, kale, strawberries, yogurt drink, milk, bread. Go team!

However, butter and chocolate; are from Belgium. Blackberries from Mexico.

Not a bad ratio.

I’m a big fan of this particular butter, so I’ll stick with it. The chocolate, no matter…I’ll look for USA brand next time. And blackberries…I bought them because they were cheaper than the organic USA farmed ones…room for improvement.

My closet is an entirely different story…I have very little made in the USA clothing…and NO American made shoes. Not one pair in a closet of …let’s just say…many!

Shoes and sandals from Italy, Spain and loads of China.…what?!? How can that be? How can I turn this around?

Via Spiga and Donald Pliner shoes are both made in Italy…and are hands down my favorite dress shoe designers…so, I know I’m not giving them up. China made Adidas and Rykä are the athletic shoes with the best foot comfort for me, so I’m going to stick with them. Realistic decisions for where I am today.

But, what about the “one in every color” ballet flats and flip-flops I fill my closet with? China, China, China! My resolve is to search for a made in America brand, spend a little more and get one classic color that will go with everything…a medium gray, or metallic for summer is always a good bet.

Hang on a moment, while I Google “made in the USA flip-flops”…

WOW! I just came across a company called, Okabashi. One word…AMAZING!

From what I see, great designs, great colors, 5 star reviews, excellent pricing (actually less expensive than my favorite imported Reefs), 100% recycled…and…wait for it…made in the USA!

This is not to say that I’ll never again impulse buy a cute little pair of $20 ballet flats from Old Navy, nor buy my super comfy Reef flip flops…I love ‘em. But, I’m committing to you that for every import item I buy, I’ll now buy a comparable American made item.

Meaning, if a random pair of ballet flats are $20…I’ll want to think twice…do I want to buy an import for $20 and $60 on a USA brand, or do I want to wait and go USA? My answer may be different depending on the day…and, how much expendable income I have….but, I will make a conscious choice.

Your choices may be different from mine, or your friend’s. For me, cost is a consideration. And, just as — if not more — importantly, I feel good when I buy American! And in turn, buying American contributes to my overall well being! Hmmm…

I’m beginning to see, what has been missing for me has been a clear shopping ethic. It’s been easy for me to abstractly pronounce “buy American!”

However, the reality is my “get one in every color ‘cause they’re cheap” head is only just beginning to come out of the entitlement sand. Or, conversely, the “I can’t afford it” treadmill….

No shame, just sayin’…how can I expect things to change for me and truly live within my values, if I don’t take stock?

Thanks to you, my faithful readers, that’s what I’ve begun to do here today…and, I hope you’ll join me!

It may not be flip-flops that set you on the path, perhaps it’s jeans, or a “launching soon Lucky Duck Living made in America t-shirt” (shameless plug, I know!)

Whatever it is, whether in your kitchen, closet, or the services you use; the benefit you gain in your spirit from buying American just may be greater than saving a few bucks, or getting twice as many!

The question isn’t “can I afford to buy American”…the question is can I afford not to? My experience is that going with my gut is always a positive building block for even greater things to come!

Amelia Earhart also said, “I want to do it because I want to do it!”

Whatever you do, please do not buy American because I say so, or because you feel guilty if you don’t. If your true mission is abroad, I applaud you. However…if buying American and supporting domestic non-profits feels like the right thing to do, go for it! Or…do both!

If you don’t know where to start, be sure to check out the feel good USA LOVE LIST! Their website is an amazing resource for made in America apparel, household goods and gift ideas.

But, first….

Is there one thing you want to change in your shopping patterns? What is it? An item you buy? An attitude? Don’t leave me hang in’! PLEASE share with us all!

As always, I’m in your corner….

Love,
Thais

And…if you want more…YES!…there’s more…check out our For Fun page!

Is “Letting Go” Mission Impossible?

Thais Zoe — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 22:57:42 +0000

Let go or get dragged, bay-bee!

The past eighteen months have been perhaps the most challenging of my life. Early on, I believed the difficulties I was having had everything to do with outside circumstance, which — until then I hadn’t realized — dictated my happiness…or, lack there of.

My situation; personally, professionally and financially appeared so incredibly bleak, I had the sensation that I simply wasn’t going to make it.

My intellect and common sense had always allowed me to pull myself up by my bootstraps. But, in late 2010 and early 2011, I reached a time when these tools and old ideas could no longer override the grief I felt in my spirit.

I’ve read that God meets us right where we are at. And, in that moment my emotional and mental exhaustion caused me to collapse in a way that surrender was my only option. Even so…”letting go” seemed impossible…which made me feel even crazier!

“But, I can’t let go! I don’t know how to surrender…” I kept saying. Mercifully, a thought came to me, that perhaps I could simply walk in the direction of surrender.

And, that’s what I did…

1. I’m a prayerful person, so that was my default. But, this time, I also listened for a reply = God.

2. All around me were moments that were longing to help me make it to the next precious moment: a kind word, a smile, a seemingly random text or phone call that gradually reminded me of the beautiful truth of who I am = Self.

3. I sought help from a few whom had similar experiences: a friend, a professional and a mentor = Others.

Listen. To. God. Self. Others. The golden ticket!

You already know this, you say?!

I would agree – yes — most of us understand the importance of these things. However, to actually have flourishing relationships with each, requires receiving… and that was not something I had a lot of experience with. Demanding, yes. Receiving, no.

Do you find yourself always giving, doing and figuring things out?

Do you feel lonely or forgotten in relationships, or perhaps often dissatisfied?

Do you think true – day in and day out — joy is for “other people?”

Is your happiness contingent upon things going your way?

My answer to all of these had been yes…and, it ultimately burned me to the ground.

It was a desolate place…to believe in God and pray to God…yet, not receive. And, the same rang true for self and others.

It needn’t go that far for you…the solution is simple. And, my experience tells me that unassailable joy can be just around the corner for you!

Listen. To. God. Self. Others.

I look forward to hearing your experience with this. Please comment below, share with a friend and mostly…begin.

As always, I’m in your corner…

Love,
Thais

And…if you want more…YES!…there’s more…check out our For Fun page!

Are You Planning The Great Escape?

Thais Zoe — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 06:10:33 +0000

Do you think Amelia Earhart had the right idea?

There was a book written recently by an actor whom had struggled with and ultimately achieved sobriety from drugs and alcohol. When interviewed she was asked if it was fun when she was using?

It was for about a month, she reflected. But, then it quickly stopped being about the thrill of getting high and started being about not detoxing. And most of her using, she went on to say, took on the shape of trying to avoid the detox.

Sounds exhausting to me!

But then it got me thinking. It doesn’t need to be as extreme as an opiate to keep us from living a full and joyful life.

I have found that I can medicate on just about anything from sugar to sex to spirituality. I don’t believe any of these things are intrinsically unhealthy, on the contrary. However, when used to separate me from reality, rather than enhance reality, I’m missing the gift in the moment…even if that gift appears in the form of pain or sadness.

Who among us hasn’t stuffed hurt feelings with a big slice of something sweet? Or consoled ourselves with a new pair of shoes? Or, worked late to avoid an uncomfortable conversation or situation at home?

The keyword there is “avoid.” Avoidance is one of the most cleverly hidden forms of dysfunction in today’s world. We are all so busy that it is very easy to simply “not have time.” And, with technology use at an all time peak, it is easier than ever to skip out on ourselves via text and email.

So what’s the solution? Amelia Earhart famously said, “the most effective way to do it, is to do it.”

What are you avoiding? A phone call? Pick up the phone. A visit? Set a date. Saying no? Sometimes the kindest thing we can do is tell the truth about where we are at.

Why is this critical to having joy in our lives? Because ladies (and, gents, too) the more we run for cover, the easier it becomes to run for cover. Then, pretty soon, we have no authenticity left, and are doing nothing more than trying to manage our lives…instead of living them!

So, I say go for it! Take the bull by the horns, the tiger by the tail…whatever the case may be. And remember, avoidance doesn’t resolve difficulty, it only delays it…and perhaps, even intensifies it. So, wherever you find yourself, take courage, and begin. And, once you take that first step, the weight lifted will be immense, and you can take another step, and another…

I look forward to hearing about all the clever ways you avoid the things in your life that you perceive are challenging…as well as, what you do differently this week!

As always, I’m in your corner…

Love,
Thais

And…if you want more…YES!…there’s more…check out our For Fun page!

Whom Would I Be With $540 Million In The Bank?

Thais Zoe — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 08:12:55 +0000

Is winning the lottery the only way to be a BIG winner?

I fully expected to turn on the news this past Wednesday, and hear of the millions-to-one winner of the Mega Lottery. Instead the jackpot has grown to a whopping $540 million! That’s A LOT!

Based on current ticket sales that makes the odds against each individual ticket holder 176-million– to-1.

Bruce Newman at The Mercury News put this number into perspective; “…you are 176 times less likely to win the jackpot than you are to be struck by lightning.” Ouch!

But, don’t let this get you down my lovelies…I imagine we’ve all had at least a moment of lottery fantasy. Whether you’ve bought a ticket or not, whether you are Friday’s big winner or not…my post below from last summer is guaranteed to give a fresh perspective…

Who(m) Would I Be With $10 Million In The Bank? — Originally posted August 2011:

So, who hasn’t thought about it? “What would I do if I won the lottery?”

Now, consider. “Whom would I be if I won?”

The other day a business man I know made an interesting illustration. He decided that he would address any concerns that his customers had as if he had $10 million in the bank. If someone was unhappy with their purchase in anyway, he committed to refunding their money. No questions asked. Almost immediately he was called to put his money where his mouth was, and returned over $50,000 in one month. However, shortly afterwards, he found that his gross revenues more than doubled the following few months.

While there are perhaps many factors that could contribute to this windfall, there is certainly no doubt, holding the idea that he had plenty of money gave him the freedom to simply do the right thing. In turn, more people were interested in doing business with him, and he reported that his fear of losing money, or of not having enough, dissipated…and ultimately evaporated. Doing right by his clients became the obvious way of doing business. Not just the ideal, but the real action he now stands by.

This got me thinking about the work of Greg Baer and his Real Love series. Dr. Baer asks the question, if I had twenty million dollars in my (emotional bank), would I worry about the two dollars I perceived someone had stolen from me? i.e.; perhaps they are regularly late, are often distracted, or not helpful when you need them most. How much would these little things annoy, or continue to bother me? If I carried with me $20 million dollars worth of love, security and appreciation, independent of what “they” say or don’t say, do or don’t do, would my experience walking through life be different?

Having practiced this simple principle, I can tell you first hand, it almost immediately transformed my perspective of the world. What a gift to truly discover all the love already around me…and, finally be relieved of the anxiety and unhappiness I had carried a lifetime. At first, it was a bit of work to simply remember… But, as happens with universal truths, it opened the door to once-and-for-all surrendering my old self, and in turn becoming the woman I’d always wanted to be. Free.

No doubt this will be an ongoing journey, and, I hope you’ll join me. Ask yourself…who(m) would I be if I had millions in the bank…emotional, or otherwise…? (Then be that person!)

I can’t wait to hear from you!

And, as alway, I’m in your corner…

Love,
Thais

And…if you want more…YES!…there’s more…check out our For Fun page!

A Simple 3-Step Exorcism of the Dimpled Demon!

Thais Zoe — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 01:30:59 +0000

Dimples are fine on an orange, but are you tired of them on your bum?

Last week I shared some tips about revamping your style, and integrating simple and stylish ideas into your wardrobe like using a vase to display earrings that you love, but forget to wear.

How did it go? Have you set a time to do this Spring cleaning? I’d love to hear!

Speaking of Spring; I sense that my boots and jeans will soon be replaced by flip flops and dresses…which means MORE SKIN showin’!

Yet, between last Summer and this Spring, I‘ve gained nearly 10 pounds! Fortunately, I’m still healthy, but my clothes definitely don’t fit like they did, and I don’t imagine I would be comfortable sitting poolside in anything other than a caftan!

It’s no wonder…the way I downed Starbuck’s pumpkin loaf and lattes last fall!

Truthfully, it’s not the bit of extra weight that bothers me. I love my bod! It’s the “C” word….you guessed it, “cellulite that is annoying!” At this point in my life I thought I was immune. I was WRONG!

There is, however, one thing that makes it even worse…I’m PALE! I’m not just pale, I get so faded that I’m practically translucent!

There’s nothing wrong with pale skin, it’s just that I prefer a little color.

So what’s my solution? 1–2-3

1. First I went by Starbuck’s. This time, however, all I walked away with was a bag of used coffee grounds from the espresso bin. Shweet! Of course, you can use the grounds from your coffee maker, too…just make sure it’s caffeinated coffee.

Then, I went home and mixed one cup of the coffee grounds (helps redistribute fat cells and decrease formation of cellulite) with ¼ cup honey (very healing and great for retaining moisture) and ¼ cup olive oil (excellent moisturizer) in a 2 cup Tupperware container. A plastic container is key, since I recommend keeping this scrub handy in the shower…and. you don’t want to risk breaking a glass container when in bare feet.

As you’ve probably heard, consuming caffeine can contribute to cellulite, but, applying it topically can help reduce its appearance. And, guess what? It works!

So here’s the deal. Make the scrub and use it!

When I shower, I massage each thigh about a minute each, clean other areas and then come back and massage the scrub in for another minute on each upper leg…and yes, bum area!

It’s important that you rinse off very well…that means all cracks and crevices! Then be sure to completely rinse down your shower. It WILL stain over time, if not cleaned off.

Once towel dried you’ll notice that your legs are oh, so soft! Do this everyday for a couple weeks, and you should see definite improvement. When drying off, residual grounds may remain…so, be sure to change your towel frequently.

2. If you like to have some color as I do, after drying off put a large quarter size of dollop of tanning lotion in your palm and apply to your lower legs…then more tanning lotion and your thigh area. Make sure to apply evenly, buffing out the areas around your ankles and knees. I make it a point not to rub it in too much. It’s not necessary with the brand I use, at least. Whichever brand you use…WASH your hands after application!

I use and love L’Oreal Sublime Bronze Tinted Self Tanning Lotion in Medium Natural Tan. It works great, especially when applied to skin that is moisturized. Self tanner also helps camouflage some of our problem areas until we can resolve them. Again, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly as soon as you’re done applying.

3. Watch what you drink and eat

Lots of water daily which aids in giving a more supple appearance to your skin. If you avoid drinking water, because you pee a lot, stick with it. I’ve found that once my body gets retrained to actually absorb the water I intake, my need to use the restroom lessens. Perhaps you’ll find this true for you, too?

And, of course, sugary, salty, saturated fatty, junk or alcohol rich diets all contribute to what your skin looks like. So, easy does it!

Questions? Please let me know. If you found this helpful or encouraging, please comment below and let me know what works, or doesn’t work for you.

Above all…we’re in this together…et’s love our bods no matter where we’re at!

As always, I’m in your corner…

Love, Thais

And…if you want more…YES!…there’s more…check out our For Fun page!

Spring Is In The Air! Time To Go Shopping? I Have A Better (Less-Expensive) Idea!

Thais Zoe — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 04:40:25 +0000

What is greater than clever ideas, that are simple, add style, and enhance our everyday life?

Try selecting a simple vase to display your forgotten earrings!

A few years back when on holiday visiting a girlfriend of mine, I noticed that she had created a beautiful display of earrings on the edge of a simple vase. Stunning, really! Not only was it decorative, but, it also helped her remember her accessory options.

But, of course…it seems so obvious!

One of the top rules of personal styling is; you can’t wear it, if you don’t see it! How many of us have loads of wonderful jewelry; earrings, necklaces, bangles and the like, but end up wearing the same three pieces over and over?

What about shoes? Handbags? Jeans?

When cleaning out our closet, we’ve all heard the rule if we haven’t worn it for a year, get rid of it! That’s a good premise, but if it’s been outta sight, it may be that it’s actually a super fantastic addition to your wardrobe that you simply don’t remember to wear.

It happens to me all the time! How about you? Does the way you have your wardrobe set up make it easier to slip on the same old belt with your jeans instead of using one of those lovely scarves that’s jammed in the back of a drawer?

Do you have baskets of look good hair clips and sparkly pins collecting dust while you pull your hair up in the same old ponytail?

We don’t need to go shopping ladies…it’s time to make use of what we already have!

If you agree, perhaps it’s time to revamp your wardrobe and refresh your style. A good place to start is by pulling everything out of your closet and sorting into three piles: Keep it, Donate it and Not sure.

Then, take the “not sure” pile, and see what else it works with. Does it really express the image that is your own? Not sure? Ask an honest friend to give you their opinion about what works and what doesn’t. Even better, get a style buddy and be each other’s 2nd opinion!

Whatever system you prefer, I encourage you to come from a place of “plenty.” Even if you are left with half of what you started with, you’ll now get to appreciate and actually wear even more of it than before!

If you need inspiration, I’d like to introduce you to two amazing women…

On the West coast in San Francisco is Kristina Moore who is editor and chief stylist of Corporate Fashionista. You can find her on her extremely resourceful blog, as well as on Twitter and Facebook.

On the East coast in New York is Alexandra Greenawalt who is founder and chief stylist of AlexandraStyle. You can find her on her amazing style website, as well as Twitter and Facebook .

Both are lovely women devoted to helping you claim your style and update your wardrobe. I hope you will check them out!

In the meantime, find your favorite vase, place it on your dresser and let it be the starting point for remembering the earrings you have. I even like adding flowers weekly for a fresh touch.

But, don’t stop there…go through and remember how many great pieces your wardrobe already has!

And, if you have some styling or wardrobe tips or tricks, please share them here with me, and your fellow readers.

I can’t wait to hear what you are up to!

And, as always, I’m in your corner…

Love,
Thais

And…if you want more…YES!…there’s more…check out our For Fun page!