Friday, January 29, 2010

Thought of the Day...

I was busy reading all about my new adventure...Independent Stylist for Stella & Dot....and while reading about the founder, Jessica Herrin, I was truly inspired. She shared her Personal Motto with the world and I could not agree with her more:

"Be daring, be different, be impractical; be anything that will assert integrity of purpose and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers, the creatures of the commonplace, the slaves of the ordinary." –Cecil Beaton

Although there are the everyday tasks that are unavoidable, it's how you accomplish those task's. Who say's we have to follow the normal steps of life. Take a leap of faith. Do something scary. You never know what the results may be. Failure is a possibility, however, what you learn leading to failure is a huge reward. By taking the risk you are now able to answer the question "What if..." and you never know where those step's of risk will take you.

I challenge anyone who reads this post to follow through with your inside voice "What if I could be..." or "What if I tried..." you never know what the result may be. Spread your wings and persue the passion inside.

Cheers,

Cara

Monday, January 25, 2010

Great Advice...

A close friend of mine is 2 months away from getting married and she shared a piece of advice with me that I find to be some of the best advice in terms of marriage, as well as, life.

"No expectations..."

This doesn't mean you can have a plan or set goals. This just means that life changes, situations come up and by not having any set expectations than you won't be disappointed.
Think back to the times where you were most frustrated with a friend, husband, family member or even yourself....if you had avoided an expectation would things have been different?
Just a thought....hope everyone is enjoying 2010!
Cheers,
Cara

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

What did you Plant?

I was sent this incredible link of inspiration and positive reinforcement....I invite you all to check it out. It’s a 3 minute clip titled The Strangest Secret Movie.

http://www.thestrangestsecretmovie.com/


Enjoy!
Cara

P.S. What did you plant?

Friday, January 8, 2010

"A New Begining..."


Photo found on Flickr.com

As we say good bye to 2009 and look forward to 2010 {not only a new year, but a new decade), what thoughts run through your mind? Some people are believers that the New Year brings new beginnings. Other's look at the countdown and dropping of the ball as a reason to celebrate. I believe in both. At the same time, I also believe January 1st is no different than July 2nd or any other day of the year.




Why is it that our society puts so much pressure on the idea that the New Year Brings New Beginnings? Every day is a new day. Look to your past as a road map to your future. We all make mistakes; bad decisions or we often times do nothing at all. The beauty about each day is the opportunity for change.



I challenge everyone to set goals whether it is today, was on January 1st or will be on February 9th. I encourage everyone to set at least 3 goals and follow through with them. Below are a few tips to remember when setting and implementing your goals:



1. Set short and long term goals. Short term goals can be checked off frequently or are stepping stones to achieving your long term goal. A long term goal is more of a challenge and will take time and personal investment.

2. Goals must be specific and measurable.

3. Remember to be Realistic so that you remain committed.

4. Write them down.

5. Store them in a place where you will be reminded each day of what you plan to accomplish. My goals are posted at my desk in a place where I view them every day. I have heard of others who have taped their goals to the bathroom mirror or on the back of their bedroom door. It's a form of daily inspiration.

6. Share your goals with someone who will hold you accountable. Often times, we start off spirited and then we allow our ideas to fall by the waste side. Having an accountability partner will remind you and encourage you to follow through.

7. And finally celebrate, each time you accomplish a goal.

*Side note, although goals are intended to be accomplished, they can also change. As human beings our needs, wants, desires, capabilities, can all change based on experiences we have. Sometimes these experiences are controlled and other times they are out of our control. Remember to allow yourself some room for change.



I am going to finish this thought with a quote,

"A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step."

- Lao Tzu 600 BC - 531 BC, thinkexist.com



Good Luck & Happy New Year!



Cara



Thursday, December 17, 2009

FREE SHIPPING - Today!!!


For all of you still scurrying to complete your Christmas Shopping, I have a solution for you. If you are anything like me the thought of entering a mall's parking lot or standing in a tangled line is undesirable. With only "8" days to go before exchanging Christmas gifts you better think fast. I have a solution that requires your coziest clothes, a cup of something to drink and your feet propped up to rest. Spend an hour shopping online and instantly check each person off your list.




Today has been declared "FREE SHIPPING". I found a website that notes all stores participating. Visit http://www.freeshippingday.com/ where you'll find links to all your favorite stores ranging from Saks Fifth Avenue, Tilly's, Toys R Us, West Elm, and so many more.



To save additional money don't forget to check out the coupon codes posted online. There are several websites to choose from. Three that I have used this year include: http://www.retailmenot.com/ , http://www.couponcabin.com/ and http://www.couponcode.com/ .



Merry Christmas to all!



Cara

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Food for Thought


I was surprisingly inspired while reading the Editors Note in GLAMOUR magazine. For one, I rarely read the editors note non-the-less read it and find inspiration. I am typically ready to jump into the content of the magazine I tend to over look. This month’s issue was different. I was drawn in because of the photographs surrounding the note; the title struck my interest and then the notes ending was the clincher - a moment of inspiration. Cindi Leive, Editor-In Chief, shared with her readers lines that were spoken at the recent Glamour's Women of the Year Awards. Those words were:



"...Some of my favorite lines were spoken by comedian Amy Poehler, who said that while the adult version of herself was slightly startled to be honored, "the 10 year-old-version of me believed that I would be here. So...close your eyes and think about what you were like when you were 10...whether you were singing into the mirror or sitting in a tree...That little person believed that you could be here. And that's why you are."

Close your eyes, revisit your 10-year-old self, believe in her dreams and then open your eyes and go..."



As I get older I get distracted from the importance of balancing responsibilities and reaching for what I once believed to be a dream. Everyday people are fulfilling dreams, goals, and aspirations. Although my dreams have changed I need to remember to still dream, set goals and accomplish them. The only person who can fulfill those goals would be myself. It’s fun to do and feels great once completed.

I hope you all enjoy Cindi's words and remember to reach for the stars....you never know, you might be a part of GLAMOUR'S Women of the Year Awards in the future.



Cheers,

Cara



Wednesday, November 25, 2009

stella & dot





My boyfriends sister introduced me to a fashion forward amazing new business. The company is called "stella & dot". Stella & Dot was established by Jessica Herrin who also co-founded WeddingChannel.com. Her new business model is geared towards women looking for a home based business opportunity. This new business is similar to selling Tupperware, make-up, Monavie, yet 100% better. Selling "stella & dot" is fun and easy. The product is something we all enjoy purchasing, receiving and giving...Jewelry!


Who doesn't enjoy jewelry? "Stella & Dot" is a company for men & women. You can run your own "stella & dot" business or "stella & dot" can become your new favorite jewelry provider.

Check out a few of my favorite pieces:














































If you are interested in purchasing any of the items pictured above or would like to view additional selections I invite you to visit www.stelladot.com/sites/tanyaeco . Be sure to purchase through Tanyaeco {the one who introduced me}. If you are interested in starting your own "stella & dot" business you can visit her website as well to find out the details.

Enjoy,

Cara