I realize that there was more than a little ambiguity in yesterday’s post…
THE STORY
…That was not at all intentional; I myself can’t stand ambiguity, in my opinion it’s often nothing more than an attention-getting device. I was vague in regard to what exactly was going on not to seek attention but because a) I wrote the post several days ago and wasn’t feeling like sharing the story and b) I wasn’t sure if I was going to share the entire story or not. What I share here in the story portion of my posts has to meet one of two criteria. It either has to be amusing and/or outrageous or it has to be a story that others can learn something from and relate to their own lives. I’ve learned a great deal in the last week, so I decided that perhaps maybe someone else could benefit from what I’ve learned.
A little over a month ago I wrote a post entitled “Wednesday’s With Sis” that you may or may not have read. If you didn’t, you might want to take a quick look just so you understand what I’m talking about now. Last Wednesday night Sis lost her long and painful battle with ALS. That in itself was painful enough, but oddly enough her passing and all of the events following it coincided almost to the day, with the loss of my mother 34 years ago. Hence, the emotional steamroller I referred to in yesterday’s post. It was like losing them both simultaneously if that makes sense. Not surprisingly, much introspection and soul-searching took place and I learned the following things:
- While the pain is still very real and very raw, with determination I can function and get on with my life unlike when I was 17. Back then I didn’t have the wisdom nor the coping skills and was lost in a very dark place in my head for awhile.
- Old wounds can be reopened and I can get knocked back to that dark place, BUT I no longer have to stay there.
- Time to wallow in one’s grief is necessary, but you cannot allow it to be permanent. If necessary, mentally give yourself a cut-off day and that’s the day you get your act together.
- The love and support of people who really know you is as necessary to life as oxygen.
- The kind words, support and love from people that you have never actually met in person mean more than you would think. Those of us who blog know that we are all hugely supportive of one another in our blogging endeavors, but the kindness and love I received from women I have had the privilege of becoming friends with through blogging meant the world to me.
- Sometimes the smallest gestures make all the difference.
- Take nothing for granted.
- People will disappoint you, but then others whom you would least expect it from, come through for you.
- If you are observant, death teaches you much about the living.
THE OUTFIT
This red peplum cami is the print version of this fabulous blue peplum cami that I got from Old Navy earlier in the summer and absolutely fell in love with. This time I picked up this color, the same print in navy blue and a plain black one. At under $10 apiece you can’t go wrong. It’s comfortable, lightweight and washes up really well. To me, this top qualifies as a basic. It can be worn on it’s own or layered under or over things once it cools down in the fall. The pants are also a lightweight rayon, but I gotta tell ya, when it hits about 90 shorts are a better idea. Because of the heat, this outfit much like yesterday’s, is simple and to the point. Very little adornment, super lightweight and no layers.
THE TIP
Stock up on basics in multiple colors….especially when they are on sale.
THE LINKUPS
Check out the weekly link ups I participate in for even more fashion and style ideas…
Top: Old Navy; Pants: JCPenney (Similar); Sandals: Payless (Similar)
