June Monthly Blog Recap..#11

The Big Eleven

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Can you believe it's the end of June already?!  And, for me, that means my 11 month anniversary (blogiversary?) of blogging. One more month, folks, and it's a year!!  I'll save the big nostalgia moments for next month's big blowout.....but, for now, let's look at how Debbiethisandthat has fared in her eleventh month.

Most Viewed Post

This fashion post in which I style a striped dress, bag and shoes got great response! Mr.thisandthat did the photography which means great shots....he's such a good guy and a great photographer!! I also truly love this outfit so this post was a win, win all the way around!

Most Viewed Home Decor Post

My little foyer table posts continue to generate a lot of interest. And that's a good thing since I love to decorate!! This table will be changing again, soon, so stay tuned for upcoming posts. In this post, I created a table of Butterflies. 

Most Viewed Devotional Post

I always enjoy sharing my faith and this month I focused on "Faith, Hope and Love" sharing scripture from I Corinthians 13. In this post I recapped some ideas that came out of a study I did with some great ladies at my church. Hope you'll revisit the post to hear their thoughts (and mine). 

Most Viewed Book Post

I did a second post on introversion this month by sharing a great book called, "Quiet, The Power of Introversion in a World That Can't Stop Talking" written by Susan Cain.  As an introvert myself, I found the research that Susan did on introversion and extroversion to be fascinating and the book truly helps me to understand myself and my reactions to the world around me much more than I did before reading the book. I highly recommend this book for any introverts or extroverts out there! (And that pretty much takes care of all of us!!) (Not a paid post by the way. I just like the book!!)

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So, this is a wrap for June!  Hope your June has been terrific and the rest of the summer brings warmth, rest and happiness! Thanks so much for stopping by today. And, please, leave a comment so I'll know you've been here. I love to hear from you!!

Until Next Time,

Debbie

Linking with: Running In A Skirt,  Grammietime2, Katherines Corner

A Book Called Quiet...Being A Powerful Introvert!

(This is not a paid post. No free book or remuneration was received. All writing/opinions are my own.)

Sharing A Favorite Book

Well, here I am doing what I love to do most....reading a book. Want to know what it's about? 

The title kind of gives you a hint. It's about being quiet. Wait a minute....what????  Why would someone need to read a book about being quiet?!  Well...there's more to the title than just quiet. The full title is, "Quiet, The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking."  This book, by Susan Cain, gives information about what it means and doesn't mean to be introverted, gives a history of how extroversion became the "ideal" in our society and talks about how to exist more healthfully in this world if you are an introvert. It's an interesting read (I'm actually re-reading as I've had the book for awhile) and because of my interest in introversion (since I am one) I wanted to share the book with you...my very awesome readers! I've done a previous post on introversion before. If you missed that first one, you can catch up here. 

Susan divides the book into four sections with three or four chapters complimenting each section. The four sections are:

Part One: The Extrovert Ideal
Part Two: Your Biology, Your Self?
Part Three: Do All Cultures Have An Extrovert Ideal?
Part Four: How To Love, How To Work

I really enjoyed this book the first time I read it and am enjoying the re-read even more as I am gleaning information that I missed the first time. It's that kind of book...the more you read it, the more you learn. 

For instance, did you know that we wouldn't have many ideas, books, musical pieces and technological advances if it weren't for introverts? Things like Chopin's nocturnes, Newton's theory of gravity, Einstein's theory of relativity, Larry Page's Google or the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling. These folks were (are) introverts! Kind of puts a new perspective on those of us who like to have lots of quiet time for....let's say.....thinking??

Cain is quick to point out (and rightly so in my opinion) that whether someone is extroverted or introverted, they can achieve and be successful. It's not a judgement on someone's personality. But, the book helps to explain why, in our society, so much emphasis is placed on being outgoing, working at high speed, multi-tasking, being a fantastic public speaker, working in groups rather than alone...all traits that speak more to being an extrovert rather than an introvert. And yet, she points out, both personalities have strengths and can be leaders in their own right. 

I find myself often in the pages of this book. And, yes, it is affirming to my introverted personality. The author even talks about how introverted personalities are viewed not only in workplace situations but in other group type situations, such as church. I was amazed at how the book resonates with me. 

I began thinking about re-reading the book yesterday as I went through a hectic day that took a toll on my introverted personality. After directing the choir for two services at church the day continued with a reception after church in the fellowship hall. It was an emotional morning as we were saying good-bye to our assistant pastor who is leaving, after six years, to be senior pastor at another church. There were lots of people, many speeches and lots of tears. Overdrive for an introvert! 

As often happens on these hectic days, we were also invited to a graduation party for the son of a friend. The morning had started extremely early and all I really wanted to do was to take a nap after getting home from the church reception. All of the people and emotion had drained me and I desperately needed time to myself. But, this was not possible as we had to get ready and be off to the party. Now, I am not anti-social and I like a good party as much as the next person. And the people at the party were kind and friendly folks! But, I really didn't know most of the people at this party and making "small talk" is definitely not my forte. To put it mildly, I was way out of my comfort zone....and spent the afternoon feeling awkward and out of place. Yes, my feelings were most likely exacerbated because of the high emotional toll from earlier in the day, but, even so, the party exhausted me. It was with a sigh of relief that I arrived home late in the day, finally took my nap and then...you guessed it....curled up with a good book! As with most introverts, having times of quiet and/or engaging in quiet pursuits is how an introvert recharges their batteries. And, boy oh boy,  did my batteries ever need recharging!!

So think about this for a moment....I felt uncomfortable sharing discussion yesterday at the party with a group of 15-20 people who were right there with me in a room....and yet, here I am today, the self proclaimed introvert, sharing my feelings and thoughts with....oh...people all around the world on the Internet? What??!!

Susan Cain speaks to this when she discusses that introverts are more likely than extroverts to express intimate facts about themselves online because they feel that they can express their real selves online more easily than in group situations and welcome the chance to communicate digitally. Now....I don't intend to give out all of the intimate details of my life online....but I do understand the comfort level of sharing with others via a blog. It is definitely easier to express myself through writing. And reading this book about introversion helps me to understand myself, including my blogging self, more and more!

Can you identify? Hope you'll take a moment to share. And, if the book interests you......here is the Amazon link, although I am sure it is also available through many other vendors. (This is not a paid post, I'm just sharing the book because I find it interesting!)

Until Next Time,
Debbie


*Be sure to check out the final installment in the "Between the Lines" series over at Katherines Corner tomorrow (Tuesday).
 http://katherinescorner.com/2016/06/28/lines-katherines-corner

Linking with:
Katherines Corner Thursday Favorites Grammietime2

White Capri Pants and Goodwill Shopping Tips

Does Style Have To Be Expensive?

Do you think great style has to be expensive?  Some people do and wouldn't think of wearing clothes that aren't the very latest style and the most expensive item or brand name. I hold a different opinion.

I believe that it's possible to have a neat, polished and stylish look without spending a mint. Today's post is a case in point. I'm styling white capri pants that I purchased recently at Goodwill.  These capris cost me a whopping $3.75!  They fit beautifully, are the color I was looking for and are a great comfortable find that I will be wearing for many summers. I love to shop at Goodwill and feel that shopping there is a cost effective way of adding to my wardrobe without breaking the bank. 

To add to the polished look, I'm pairing the capris with a melon colored top that I purchased a few years ago at Hamrick's as a sale item. Coordinating bracelets add a touch of class, as well. 

I honestly don't recall when and where I purchased these sandals. The brand is "Strictly Comfort" featuring memory foam on the foot bed. The memory foam certainly makes the shoes more comfortable to wear. The block heel adds support and is not too high. 

Now, in all honesty, had I not told you that these capris were purchased at Goodwill....would you have known?  I've been looking for quite awhile for a summery looking pair of white pants since they are so in vogue right now. I've tried on many pairs in regular stores at much higher prices and found that they just didn't look that great on me. I went to Goodwill specifically looking for a white pair of pants thinking that if I chose a pair that didn't end up being something I would like, at least I wouldn't be out a lot of money. I tried on MANY pairs of white pants before settling on these capris. I think I found a winner! The capris brand is Erika Co. 

So, as a fan of Goodwill shopping, I thought I would share some tips that I follow when shopping there. (If you follow my blog, you know I mention items purchased at Goodwill fairly often).

1. Not all Goodwill stores carry the same quality merchandise as others, so be willing to try looking at several different Goodwill stores in different areas of your town. We are fortunate to have several different stores in my area to choose from. 

2. Be willing to look several times before deciding on a purchase. For instance, I tried on white pants at one particular Goodwill and found nothing that fit correctly or looked good on me. So....I left without making a purchase. A few days later, I tried a different Goodwill and found the capris I purchased. But, as with all shopping, it took time and effort. 

3. If you are looking for a specific item, be careful not to get "distracted" by other items. This is hard for me, because with prices so low, it's easy to see several items that interest me and I "think" I need.  When shopping for the white pants, when I got distracted by other items, I would remind myself that I had come specifically for a particular item and needed to stick to my plan. That kept me from making frivolous purchases just because items are cheaper than in other stores. 

4. Carefully inspect the garment before making the purchase to make sure there are no stains or tears that went unnoticed when trying on the clothing. 

5. Don't just be a Goodwill shopper.....also contribute to Goodwill. Mr.thisandthat and I regularly go through our clothing and household goods each year to see if there are unused items that we can donate to Goodwill. I've actually seen clothing that I donated being worn around town! It's nice to know other folks like my style!

So, do you love a bargain like I do?  Are you a Goodwill shopper? Hope you'll take a moment to share.....I love hearing from my readers.  And whatever your style and wherever you shop...I hope you have a happy and wonderful weekend!

Until Next Time,

Debbie

Links:

• Today I am linking up with Tania on Wednesday’s Wardrobe.

SydneyFashionHunter

Elegantly Dressed and Stylish
Not Dead Yet Style

Not Dressed As Lamb

Nautical Tablescape...Bringing the Ocean Home!

Are you missing the beach but a trip is not in sight?  No problem...bring the beach to you with a fun nautical tablescape.

I found these fun nautical placemats at A.C. Moore for a buck each. 

And how serendipitous that the napkins I have on hand just happen to have seashells on them to match the theme!

I added a sailboat some lighthouses and various rocks and shells we picked up on previous beach trips to the middle of the table. 

After clearing the dinner dishes, I simply stacked the placemats and moved the tablescape to the center of the table to further enjoy my ocean scene! I really enjoy the sailboat I bought awhile ago at Cracker Barrel. They carry a lot of beach decor in their gift shop.

Now granted, this tablescape doesn't take the place of a beach trip, but it does bring happy memories of previous trips to the dinner table and I can almost feel those fresh ocean breezes.....

How about you?  Do you have fun ways to bring the ocean to your home?  Do you have some great ideas for beach (or other) tablescapes?  Hope you'll share!

Until Next Time,
Debbie

Hope you'll follow me on Pinterest. I have boards for tablescapes which you might find interesting!

Linking:
A Dish of Daily Life 

And the greatest of these....I Corinthians 13

Faith, Hope and Love

Debbiethisandthat.com

We're squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us! But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation. Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love. 

(I Corinthians 13:12-13   The Message)

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A few weeks ago a group of ladies and I completed a three week Sunday School class on the topic of faith, hope and love using 

I Corinthians 13 as our guide. One of the many things we talked about over the course of those weeks, is how often people use these three words in everyday language in ways that are so different from the way the words are used in scripture. I know I often say I "love" things ranging from pretty dresses to chocolate to pizza. I "hope" the weekend comes quickly or that I get around to doing some chores I need to do. I don't hear faith used quite as much as hope and love...but it is a word that gets bandied about as well. Of course, one of the ladies brought up the point that other languages have many words that can be used for "love" that fit the individual usage of the word. In English we don't have other words. So sometimes, the scriptural definition of faith, hope and love can get muddied in our everyday usage. 

As I read and meditate on this scripture, I realize that the scripture points to faith, hope and love as verbs....action words...rather than nouns. In other words, I have to put love, faith and hope into the actions of my life as I seek to live closer to the Lord. In verses earlier in the chapter, Paul talks about how love never gives up, cares more for others than for self, doesn't strut, have a swelled head and isn't always "me first." It's not always easy to put love into action is it? 

One of the women in our group wisely reminded us that this scripture doesn't mean we are supposed to be "doormats" and let other people walk over us. That's where we need to seek the Lord's guidance about how to love others. Sometimes, love must be tough. Sometimes, love may mean setting healthy boundaries for ourselves or others. Sometimes, love may mean opening our hearts to those who are hard to love. Sometimes, love may mean offering forgiveness to those who have hurt us. And that includes being able to love ourselves as well.....

For me, the key to understanding how the Lord is guiding me to put faith, hope and love into action in my life is accomplished through praying often, studying the scripture and seeking to listen for Christ's voice in my life. It is in this intimate relationship with Christ that I am able to move forward each day to "trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly and love extravagantly." 

And how wonderful that "loving extravagantly" has no price tag....although it sounds expensive....it is free for the giving and for the receiving!

May you have a day filled with the extravagant love of God!!

Until Next Time,

Debbie

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Striped dress, bag and shoes!

All About Stripes

Today is all about stripes as I model a striped dress, tote bag and even shoes with stripes! 

Sometimes I think stripes can be hard to wear. I always heard that horizontal stripes can make one appear heavier, but the style of this dress seems to flatter the figure rather than add heaviness. I like the way the stripes change on the pocket and sleeve with a wider dark band at the end of the sleeve to add interest. 

I changed up the look a bit by adding my Gloria Vanderbilt jean jacket. The blue striped tote bag was a gift from my Secret Pal at work. I like how the blue and white striped bag compliments the black and white of the dress and jacket. 

And notice the striped bands on my Skechers wedge sandals. I've styled these before but really like the look of these shoes with this dress. I'm experimenting with blue nail polish which is a different look for me and also matches the tote bag. What do you think? Do you try nail polish colors that aren't the "traditional" colors such as pink or red? 

I chose several of my favorite pieces of jewelry to wear with this outfit. I love the look of black and silver together as you can see on the necklace, two bracelets and hook earrings. 

A final hint of blue is added with one of my favorite rings. This band style was purchased at Dakota Jewelers in Estes Park, Colorado. 

I have to say that I believe this is my most favorite outfit that I have styled on the blog so far. The look works well for me and I know I'll be wearing it frequently this summer. It's a keeper for sure!

How about you? Do you enjoy wearing stripes? Do you have a "look" that works well for you? Hope you'll leave me a message and share!

Until Next Time,

Debbie

Interested in a similar look?

Dress by Perceptions New York- Similar multi-color here. 

Shoes by Skechers-Similar here.

Jacket by Gloria Vanderbilt-Similar here.

Tote bag-Somewhat similar in gray here.

No compensation was received from any brand names mentioned in this post. All writing and opinions are my own. 

Linking With:

Living On Cloud Nine

Today I am linking up with Tania on Wednesday’s Wardrobe.

Butterflies on the Foyer Table!

Wings of Color

I decided to change things up on the foyer table today by doing a butterfly vignette.

As I've written before, I have a love for butterflies and each object on the table is either a butterfly or has a butterfly on it. The striped mat helps to pull out the variety of colors on each object.

I've used this garden rock in other vignettes before. I love the message on the rock and, of course, the gold butterfly that adorns the lower left. 

This lovely angel holding a butterfly was a gift from my "Secret Pal" at school.   It is so precious. 

These are the items I had on display previously on the foyer table. I like the look of the bunnies and "Spring Thyme" board and decided to move this vignette to the wooden steps that sit beside the foyer table. These wooden steps are actually meant to be used as a shoe rack or as a step up to a bed, but we currently use it as part of our foyer display. Do you notice the hummingbird hanger on the sign? That was another "Secret Pal" gift and I decided to add it to the display.  ( My Secret Pal has been very good to me this year!!)

I just love this thrifted pitcher and wanted to keep it on display, as well, so I moved it to the bottom shelf of the foyer table. 

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It's always refreshing to give a new look to the foyer table.  I'm a little late with my Spring Cleaning, and although this is technically not "cleaning" it is a good beginning to the process! How about you? Do you have any special Spring decorating (or cleaning) that you do? Hope you'll leave me a message and share!

Until Next Time,

Debbie

a public domain JPG image from wpclipart.com

Linking with:

Katherinescorner.com

Styling For Cleanup...After The Bears' Day Out!

Cleanup Duty

What do you wear for cleaning up after the Bear Family has had a heyday with your garbage?  Why, a sweatshirt, jeans and some great rain boots, of course!

These rain boots are so cute and colorful. I bought them at Stein Mart a couple years ago thinking I would wear them for snow. I quickly discovered that rain boots can be COLD in the wintertime unless properly lined. But, they are wonderful for mucking about in the yard when it is wet and muddy....or for rainy days, of course....and for cleaning up after the bears come to visit!

The "Culprits".....

I was trying to help out my husband by cleaning up the strewn garbage since much of it was in poison ivy and he is terribly allergic. Usually, I'm not....fingers crossed!!  As I was cleaning, I began to wax poetic about how our garbage reallys says a lot about how we live our lives. The food we eat, the products we use. Garbage is a sort of mirror into our lives. Perhaps that is what the Bear Family is thinking when they dive into the garbage can? Sort of how we look at visiting zoos to stare in at the animals and learn about them in their zoo habitats. Does Mama Bear tells her cubs, "Children, wash your paws we're going to visit a backyard today."  And do the cubs reply, "Hooray, can we stop for garbage after we're done?" Obviously, I'm using my imagination here, but, hey, when you're picking up garbage.....it helps!  How do they know the exact day we have garbage pickup?

Until Next Time,

Debbie 

Linking With:
http://marilynstreats.com/over-the-moon-26/



http://sydneyfashionhunter.com/2016/06/little-bit-sunshine-fff-linkup-36.html

Today I am linking up with Tania on Wednesday’s Wardrobe.

Things I'm Delighted to Share...Flowers and a New Book!

Roses

What could be more beautiful than these lovely roses that I'm delighted to share with you? I give roses out as "Thank You's" to folks at school who have worked on my committees or supported my program in special ways throughout the year. These are some of the leftovers that I arranged and displayed on my kitchen counter.

The deep red, salmon and yellow just blend together so beautifully, don't you think? Roses are one of my favorite flowers!

Outdoor Flowers

And I'm delighted to share some of my outdoor flowers with you, as well. These marigolds are really brightening the path up to the front of my house. 

I planted two more pots of marigolds today, so now there are four. I'm loving the yellow and orange colors!

And I have ferns, again, on the front porch this summer.  But, only two pots of ferns this time. Last year, I had four pots of ferns and it overwhelmed the porch a bit. They grew so big that I cut them in half midway through summer and ended up with eight pots of ferns! Have you ever tried to cut ferns in half? What a job! The root systems are VERY tough. I was sweating by the time I got the job done! They are very resilient plants, though. 

I also have two pots of Impatiens on the front porch. They are not labeled as "deer resistant" like the marigolds, so I hope they make it through the summer without getting eaten! We do have deer coming around. 

A "New" Book

This book is not newly published, but it is new to me. I am currently reading, "The Autobiography of Foudini M. Cat," by Susan Fromberg Schaeffer. It was published in 1997. I picked it up recently in a local used bookstore and am really enjoying reading it.

The story is told from the point of view of a cat named, "Foudini" who lives with his "humans" that he calls "Warm" and "Pest." In the book, he is trying to impart wisdom, told through the story of his life, to a little cat sharing his home named Grace. I'm not super far into the book yet, but already this cat lover has fallen in love with the story. The book is still available through Amazon in both hardback and paperback. 

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So, these are the things I'm delighted to share with you today. I hope your weekend is going well. Is anything delighting you right now? Any good books you have read? Any beautiful flowers you are planting or enjoying? Hope you'll leave a comment and share. I enjoy hearing from you and appreciate your comments so much!

Until Next Time,
Debbie