Hello friends!
It's August, can you believe it? I certainly cannot. This summer has been flying by, as summers do, and I've been busy doing a myriad of things...most of which have kept me far away from the computer. While I generally try to stick to the DIY updates, I've received so many kind emails wondering where I've been, I decided to share.
I wish I could tell you that I've been off traveling the world or that I've been toiling away, making progress on the book I've always wanted to write, but the truth of the matter is, I've just been home.
Saying yes.
Yes...to all the things summer in my neck of the woods has to offer and accepting every invitation to hang out, watch a movie, go for a walk, a swim, a boat ride, a lunch or a getaway that comes my way. It may seem like no big deal, but that's not something I usually do.
For the past several years, I have been the "sorry, I can't" girl.
Sorry, I can't...I have to write a post, clean the house, make dinner, do the laundry, drive the kids, visit my mom, balance the checkbook, go to the doctor. Or sleep.
However, this summer, I challenged myself to say yes instead. I figured I could fit everything else in around my new adventures and so far, it's been ok.
The dishes sit in the sink a little longer, the blog posts have been a little more sporadic and we eat out more frequently...not a bad thing in the summertime...I love dining al fresco, but overall, no one has gone without anything important.
And I have spent the summer filling my calendar with fun, mitigating the lingering effects of this past winter.
Most days, I've been in the garden, deadheading flowers, watering and clipping them, dipping my feet in the pool when they get too hot. It's a meditation of sorts and it feels good to be outside in the sun.
Visiting friends has been high on the list, too. For some reason midlife seems to be a time of great change. I've had a number of dear friends move away this summer and I was determined to spend time with them before they left. I also made the time to reconnect with friends in general.
It's easy to text, email or chat on the phone, but there's nothing like a some real face to face time and I've been terrible about making that time. Shopping, breakfast, lunch or a chat? Yes please. I don't mind hosting if they don't mind a little mess.
The water has been big another big draw. I live on an island, so it's obviously everywhere and making time to be in it or near it, before Mother Nature decides to cast her frozen spell on it, has become a priority.
Sunset is my favorite time to get salty. The crowds are gone, the rush of the day's to do list is behind me and you can't beat the view.
And while I adore the beach and all the quiet my sweet little summer town has to offer, I've even said yes to a few city jaunts over the past few months.
What's even more shocking is I've said yes, to driving there. It's certainly not a task for the faint of heart, but after several trips, I have to say, I've gotten pretty good at it.
The reward for my yes? Why food of course...that and a few evening walks in the sultry summer city air.
Oh, don't get me wrong, I'm still a world class homebody and my heart belongs to crafting and DIY. There's been a bunch of that going on, too, and the desire to share it all with you is there, it's just that those silly yeses keep me away from the keyboard.
But the desire to write is slowly flowing back. Today, I said yes to time in front of the screen. Tomorrow, I may say yes to answering all the lovely comments in my inbox or reading a few blogs.
Yesterday, I finally got around to setting up a SHOP tab on my site menu. It's another yes, I've been putting off.
Each week, I get a ton of emails and comments from people asking about items they've see here. Some inquire about craft supplies and decorative accessories, like the wreath in my living room, and some about the fabrics I have used on my patchwork chair or my kitchen sink skirt.
What is it exactly, where did you get it, how much was it, do you have a link?
After a lot of contemplation, I decided the easiest way to address these questions was to set up an Amazon shop, listing the items there so that people can get the details themselves. Keep in mind, that if you do purchase something from there, I will earn a few pennies, as I am a affiliate. I hope to keep it updated as a resource page of sorts. We'll see...
Lastly, I share with you this photo of me. I think it was my biggest yes of the summer.
My teeth have a mind of their own, moving back into their desired ~ awful ~ place or crumbling off at the most inopportune times. Either way, a few years ago, I gave up and just smiled a whole lot less.
Well, this summer, I got the nerve to go back and investigate my options. At over $1,000 a tooth, having to sit with that gloppy, gag inducing mold stuff in my mouth yet again and many trips to the dentist (of whom I am terrified) for a procedure that might not last, porcelain veneers were out of the question.
So I once again opted for bondings. I didn't expect much, but I have to say, I personally think the results are outstanding.
Number one they were cheap and they didn't hurt at all. Number two, if they move again, it's a quick fix and number three, by fixing my teeth, my whole face perked up.
Before this, I attributed the way my closed mouth always defaulted into a saggy frown to old age, but nope. It was the way my lip was resting on my messy teeth. Fixing them was like a having a mini facelift.
I keep getting the wow, you look great comments...did you get a tan, start exercising, change your hair, go on vacation, gain weight? When I tell them I had two teeth bonded, they are shocked. Like it should be so much more than that.
Now honestly, I'm not sharing this with you out of vanity. I'm sharing, because I put it off for years. Years! And for what? I don't know...I was too busy, the house was my focus, I had to take care of my mom or the kids or the real reason, I was just too darned scared to go the dentist so I made every excuse not to.
The morning I drove there, I was physically shaking. I kid you not.
But I'm so glad I finally said yes to this one. I'm kicking myself that I didn't do it earlier. It's such a silly thing, but I find that I smile more, I feel better about myself in general, and most importantly, it was the trigger that has made me start doing all the other things. It was the beginning of yes!
Since then, I signed up for yoga again, started exercising regularly and ventured outside my comfort zone in too many ways to count.
Three little letters.
Who knew they could start an avalanche.
And in the summer.
Now that's powerful stuff.
What have you been saying yes to this summer?
I'm happy for you and proud of you my beautiful friend! Yes to things other than the computer are important! Your teeth are important too because they make you feel pretty and that matters!
ReplyDeleteDoing a little soul searching here too. Our youngest son graduates from college tomorrow and will be leaving us with an empty nest. I'm sad and excited all at the same time. Looking at more yeses in my future too.
Thank you, Stacey! I was a little hesitant to share this one, but I decided to put it all out there in the hopes that it may inspire someone else to say yes...to whatever is keeping them on the sidelines.
DeleteAnd it sounds like you are at a crossroads...happens quicker than we expect, doesn't it? I think you've already said yes to a lot of new things recently, not to mention your recent move and fabulous new home. I have no doubt that you're on the path of yes!!
Yeah for summer. We have such a short season of summer so I agree sometimes it is good to back away from the computer and enjoy these days of summer. Happy Friday Kim. Have a great weekend. Love the cute pic of you. Adorable.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Kris
I agree...way to short to say no or later to things, Kris. I am finally realizing that. Happy weekend to you...xoxo
DeleteOh, how glad I am to see this post. I was concerned about your absence and had emailing you on my to do list. I’m glad you’re having a great summer. You look super!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, it’s good to be back. I really do enjoy being online, but the call of summer has been strong this year. ☺️
DeleteGood for you Kim! I had my front teeth crowned due damage and I don't regret the money spent. Thankfully my dentist is very nice, I had horrible experiences as a child with our family dentist. I was so scared of him, I would get sick before seeing him. Don't you feel so happy that you overcame your fear! I have been slowly facing some of my fears this summer. I have driven to the city on my own at night, and I am taking a solo day trip 3 hrs. away this fall. Thanks for your inspirational post!!!
ReplyDeleteOh Maryellen, I had childhood trauma at the dentist, too! It's a horrible experience isn't it? Thankfully, my new dentist is amazing and it was a totally painless process. I do feel happy that I overcame it...and yay for that city driving! Thanks so much for your lovely comment. You just made me smile. 😁
DeleteI love being the recipient of your "yes."
ReplyDeleteI've had a lot of fun reconnecting...thank you my friend.
DeleteWhat a great post...you are taking care of you! I love it, and am trying to do much more saying yes, too!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Linda. It's not an easy thing for me to do, but with each yes it gets a bit easier. I say go for it!
DeleteUm, creativity is something that ebbs and flows, just like the tides or the moon phases....you just have to let it run its course. And, writing I totally think is the worst ...for grinding to a halt and teaching one patience! Enjoy all your phases, great post!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! I really have had an ebb and flow of creativity this summer.
DeleteWhoops, checked out your shop button before hitting publish on my comment and lost it! But I think it's a marvelous idea for bloggers to have the Amazon Shop for their readers. I've happily explored another blog friend's the other day and spent far too much time seeing all her favorite products. What would we do without Amazon?
ReplyDeleteI think you've spent a lovely summer, Kim! One that made lots of good memories for cold winter days. I think we have to choose how to best spend our time and that really does vary throughout the year, doesn't it? I guess I tend to be more of an all or nothing person in that I go all out on one thing to the loss of another. Follow your passion, I say!
Thanks Dewena! I was hesitant on having a shop, but there have been so many questions about items in my house or on my craft list, that I have decided to put all the answers in one place. I'm glad you think you it's a good idea! And I am following my creative passions this summer... xo
DeleteYour sunset shot AND your shot are beautiful :) YES! :) Whatever is best for the moment or time you are in for yourself :)
ReplyDeleteThank you, Deb!! It feels good to say yes for a change!
DeleteI am glad you said yes. I have been having some work on my back teeth done. I have porcelain crowns on 2 front teeth. My hubby and one daughter have had veneers for years and have never had a bit of trouble with them. It is amazing what a difference it makes knowing you have a pretty smile!!
ReplyDeleteSounds like you have a had a wonderful, busy summer. Good for you!
I finally said YES to renting a place for a year while we figure out where we are going to land for the next few years. xo Diana
I can't wait to hear all about your new diggs, Diana. I bet you're going to love the freedom of renting. It will give you a chance to say yes to more than just tending house! Well, if your son ever lets you out of the office!! Haha! xo
DeleteHi Kim,
ReplyDeleteYes... and then I change my mind. So far this year I have agreed to go to Alaska twice, and backed out both times. Good thing the tickets weren't bought yet! (Well, if they had been, I would have gone...and counted every second before I could go home!)
You are brave indeed, driving into the city! I did that once, accidentally. "Google, take me south on 95, but around the city." "Welcome to the Bronx." But I survived! Glad to see you did, too. I would enjoy a real trip to the city. One day.
Dentists are people, too, I hear. I steel myself for the trip, refusing to think about it until I'm in the chair. So far, it's worked out well. And your smile is such a lovely one! Glad you got it back.
And welcome back.
Driving through parts of the Bronx can be way worse than being in midtown, Nancy. You are officially a city driver! And dentists are people, too...especially the one I've been seeing for a few years. The guy is a gem and I'm glad I said yes to that appointment.
DeleteKim, Kim, Kim, however many pics I've seen of you (maybe two) I always thought you were way pretty and what more, your personality always comes through in the way you write, so I didn't ever think there was room for improvement! But I do have to say, when I scrolled down to your picture, at first I thought, is that Kim or maybe her daughter.Seriously, I'm not brown nosing. I wouldn't know what the difference was but you do look lighter and happier? Anyway, you look great and I'm not just saying that because I think that is what you want to hear. I guess YES is a good word. It sure is working for you..xxxooJudy
ReplyDeleteJudy, Judy, Judy you are just the absolute sweetest! My teeth were truly terrible...notice the conspicuous lack of a before photo!! And I do feel lighter and happier. Saying yes seems to be getting a bit easier and I think that has lightened the load a little...I hope I can keep it up! xoxox
DeleteSummer is the perfect time to let go of all those little everyday things and have fun. I have been trying to leave my computer stuff till later in the evening when I am already on the couch! So glad to hear you are having fun and reconnecting with friends. You don't even have to travel for the summer beach atmosphere....lucky you! So happy you went to the dentist and feel better about how you look. That's a huge boost and helpful in having fun.
ReplyDeleteThanks AnnMarie! I really have been getting away from the computer and in the beginning of the summer I felt guilty about it. Now I am trying to find a happy medium between computer time and fun time, because I really do enjoy writing and reading...sometime I get stuck down that internet rabbit hole! Hope you're enjoying the summer, too!
DeleteI had no idea you're still just a baby! and I mean that!
ReplyDeleteyou've had some very heavy months. your mom was no easy loss to overcome.
even though she is finally free of suffering. I think you're wonderful and courageous!
and now I have to get off here and appreciate my own life too! LOL. xoxo
here's to the yes's in your life and a dynamite smile! KIM livin' in the NOW!
Thank you, Tammy...there have been some very heavy months lately. Years actually..and "yes" has felt good and maybe even a little courageous. I hadn't thought about that...but I will now. ❤️
DeleteLearning to say YES & NO at just the right moments is definitely a life lesson needing to be learned:) So glad you found happiness through saying yes for awhile. And I TOTALLY get fear of the dentist!!!!! I'd rather do most anything than have a dental procedure...they always have to drug me!!!! By the way, you look great:)
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Cheri! Yes to the dentist was one of the hardest things to do...I'm glad I did it, but even happier that it's behind me now!!
DeleteHappy for you . . .
ReplyDelete“Playing” this summer . . . saying YES to friends, places things . . .
You Go Girl . . .
Liking that bonding too . . .
Thanks so much, Lynne...it was about time for a few yeses. ♡
DeleteFirst, time away from the blog is good time---for you! I am going through some guilt as well, but I hope to get out there in a more regular way, even if I have to schedule it.
ReplyDeleteSecond---I had no idea your were so young! And if you are older than I'm guessing, I want your secrets!!! Seriously. And beside your pretty hair and eyes, I thought you had such a cute smile. I have no idea what your teeth were like before, but it sounds like you are happy now and thats a good reason to smile. I have a few little wonky bottom teeth from thumb sucking until I was ten years old. You don't see them much unless I'm laughing really hard, but most say its sort of cute because my top teeth are perfectly aligned.
Anyway---I feel so much closer to you now that I've seen you!! You go girl!!!!
Jane
It’s been good to take a break, Jane, you’re right! I started blogging as a creative distraction and it’s become my passion, but sometimes it’s nice to step away and explore other pastures. And thank you for your sweet words! I’m not sure how old you think I am, but I celebrated my 50th birthday last spring…way too old to be worrying about messy teeth! I should’ve dealt with years ago…again, but I was terrified and lazy. They aren’t perfect now by any means, but butter. Like you I prefer to think it’s cute!!
DeleteGreat post. I hate seeing myself in pictures too and always have. We are our own worst critic. Happy for you discovering the joy of saying yes. I pray you continue to say yes in the future to those things that bring you joy, peace and love.
ReplyDeleteWe are our own worst critics, aren't we? I am trying to commit to yes, not always easy, but trying...Thank you so much for the encouragement!! ❤️
DeleteThis is a wonderful post, Kim! It's exactly what I did when I decided to take a hiatus from blogging, and when I decided to start having my hair colored again. I'm so glad you have your smile back...you are a lovely young woman inside and out. Keep enjoying your "yeses!"
ReplyDeleteHugs, Carol
Thanks so much, Carol. Change is good sometimes...not always easy, but necessary in my case. Stuck in a rut is no way to live. Hugs to you!!
DeleteTalking about your teeth reminds me of how one of my friends refers to her teeth. She says she has summer teeth . . . some-er here, some-er there . . .
ReplyDeleteHaha! Yes!! I can totally relate!
DeleteYes ... you HAVE been busy! Yes, it sounds like you had fun. Yes, you look terrific in that photo (but you've always looked terrific, in ANY photo). Yes, we're all glad you're back to the blogging thing. Yes, I'm signing off now :D Enjoyed the post!
ReplyDeleteThanks Cheryl ~ you just make me smile even widerl! I've been trying to "stretch" a bit...
DeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteAs always I enjoyed.. I have some changes I am dealing with this summer as well. ;-) I will share on the blog during the Autumn months.
You are lovely! I am glad your dental work was a success. :-)
xx oo
Carla
Thanks so much, Carla. ❤️ I've been thinking about you...
DeleteYou beautiful lady!! Yes to the smile, all the time. I'm glad to hear that you are taking a breather. It is the perfect time for all of us to relax a bit, after all that is what summer is supposed to be about. Enjoy the beach and your back yard! And don't forget to come to the city one of these days. ;)
ReplyDeleteMary, I am blushing! It's been a good time to take a breather...and actually breathe.
DeleteGood for you! What a lovely uplifting post. Enjoy the rest of the summer!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Wendy! I was a little hesitant to share this one, I am glad you enjoyed it! ☺️
DeleteI've been saying yes to a lot more "doing" this summer, too! I'd much rather be out and about doing things and visiting with friends and family than sitting in front of a computer. I've noticed that most blogs I keep up with are sporadic in the summer, which is a good thing, I think. We have all winter to sit inside in front of our computers!
ReplyDeleteYou live on an island?! I didn't know that!
Good for you for getting your teeth fixed and now feeling so much more confident about your smile! Happy summer.
Thanks so much, Melanie, I do feel so much more confident...which is kind of silly, I know, but being able to smile big has made a full bodied difference in my summer! And yes...I am an island girl~ born and bred. Of course it's not a tropical island. That would be amazing!
DeleteHello Kim, I am just like you and try to make the most out of summer since it flys by so fast. We take vacations to the beach each year and it’s the best and I look forward to it each summer. Enjoy what is left and don’t forget that September is also a beautiful month to enjoy cool weather.
ReplyDeleteJulie
Beach vacations are the best, Julie, I agree and we try to get to the ocean as often as we can. I have never been on a September beach vacation, but this year it is on the list, because, yes, it is beautiful out there then. Enjoy the weekend!!
DeleteYes! We must say yes to life and all of the wonderment it holds. We must yes to healing and questions about life and where are we going from here. We are women and we are strong.
ReplyDeleteDarling photo of you by the way:)
Jemma
Jemma, your posts have inspired me to reexamine things a bit lately, how I wanted things to be and I am grateful for that. Thank you!
DeleteFirst of all, you're gorgeous!!! And I had to laugh because I'm a world class homebody too. :) I'm so happy that you said yes this summer! Sounds like you've had a glorious time and that's what's important. You'll look back on this summer as one of your best. And you KNOW I understand about the dentist. Lord, you're a brave one, my friend! Glad to know it wasn't nearly as scary as you thought. Love when that happens!
ReplyDeleteLisa, you are making me blush! I do believe that we would be besties if we lived closer…so many similarities. We could hold each other hands at the dentist and then head home for some homebody tea and whatever fabulous new dessert you've found! Haha!!
DeleteYou look beautiful Kim <3 and I get you with the dentist. They're the most scary people on the planet. Good on you for getting in the car and making your way over there. That smile of yours says it all and I'm real happy that you made the time to say YES this Summer. Life passes us by so quickly when we're stuck in a rut and we can never rewind. So here's wishing you many more Yeses
ReplyDeleteThe dentist has terrified me for so long, Michelle, but I'm glad I finally went. It has made a big difference in my attitude. And thank you...I am trying to keep those yeses coming!
DeleteOh my sweet precious Kim! How happy I am for you... to hear how saying yes has made a difference for you this summer! It is wonderful to step back away from things that you think are so necessary and realize that they can wait, and precious moments can't, and you don't get those back. Whenever memories and special times are involved, yes yes and yes! Dishes can wait, and all those other things... but these are the days to soak up life and beautiful summer and all it has to offer! So happy you got your teeth fixed, I have some dental work that needs done as well. Cost has been the off-put for us, but hoping perhaps in the next year or so to get it done. You look amazing sweet friend, and I think that has more to do with the "yes" mentality than your teeth :D I too have not been blogging much, it just takes so much time in front of the computer, which I am balk at in the summer, lol. Blessings and hugs to you :)
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Marilyn. You are always so genuine and so kind. I appreciate your heartfelt comments and read them all with anticipation. To be 100% honest it hasn't been so easy...it's not in my nature to say yes, but it's been worth the risk. And yes, the teeth were a great first step, it absolutely changed my mentality! Blessings to you my friend and believe me, if we lived closer, I would be saying yes to a cup of tea in your fabulous banner filled garden!! I'd bring pie. 😍
DeleteSuch a positive post - I really enjoyed it.
ReplyDeleteGreat pictures … and you look good too.
Enjoy these last few weeks of summer, Autumn (Fall) will soon be here again.
Take care
All the best Jan
Thanks so much, Jan! I'm trying to take advantage of all summer has to offer for as long as it lasts!
DeleteGood for you! The season of yes agrees with you :-)
ReplyDeleteThank you Christine! ☺️
Delete
ReplyDeleteI loved the water fountain.
Nice to meet your blog.
janicce.
Isn't it pretty? It was at a cute little restaurant we ate at this summer. So glad you popped by!!
DeleteThis was an encouraging post! You look great - can't imagine you frowning. I think it's wonderful how the whole thing has pushed you out of your comfort zone. There is definitely a time in life when one needs to do these things. I suppose my turn is coming!! I'm right behind you - age wise. The sunset is beautiful.....
ReplyDeleteThanks Ronda! It's not been an easy process. I've been in a no phase for so long, yes is hard...but satisfying. I wish you luck with your own yes quest...💙
Delete