Look Book

Not unlike most people, I find inspiration in the most mundane activities. A new song may be on the radio, and I have to add it to my next Spinning class playlist. I might smell cookies baking and have to eat one (or four). On a nice day, I must enjoy the weather and take my dogs on an extra long walk.

As far as fashion and home design go, I often find my inspiration in magazines. As I flip through my favorites, I pull out pages that inspire me. To organize these pages, I created my own "Look Book." I bought an accordion file organizer (see terrible photo above) and labeled the tabs---clothes/shoes, home, products (hair/face/body), accessories, and other/gifts. I file the pages and refer to them before I shop.

Some times, I hunt down the exact item. Other times, I find an item (like fashion trends or home decor) that is similar.

Most of the time, I just keep the images, because they make me feel good and inspired. These images are like a dream/other life or aspiration for the future.

My Look Book also doubles as a wish list. I keep pictures of items that I hope to have one day. These are "big ticket" items that I save up for or hope to acquire. (Kinda like a vision board a la The Secret? ha ha ha)

It is important to me to live an inspired life. Keep things (images, books, songs, loved ones, fragrances, textures, etc.) that inspire you close by and enjoy them. Be inspired.

Best,
Julie

Making Water More Interesting

We have all heard about how important it is to drink water, especially for weight loss. I try very hard not to "drink" my calories. With the exception of occasional coffee drinks, I try to drink zero-calorie drinks, such as water, iced tea, diet soda, Crystal Light, etc.

Other than water, most zero-calorie drinks are full of caffeine and/or chemicals. It is important to drink these drinks in moderation--no more than 1 or 2 a day.

I love drinking sparkling water. LaCroix makes a great sparkling water in an assortment of flavors. Lemon, lime, berry, grapefruit, orange and cran-raspberry sparkling water is a nice change from plain filtered water.

To take it up a notch, add a splash of fruit juice to your sparkling water. Pomegranate, cranberry and grape are my favorites. POM Wonderful makes a variety of pomegranate juices, such a pom-blueberry, etc. Just a little splash will add a few calories to your drink, but also offers antioxidants, vitamins and great flavor.

Enjoy creating your own flavors of water!

Another Use for Over-the-Door Shoe Organizers

I got this great idea from Today's Creative Blog . I love this site!

Over-the-door shoe organizers are great for keeping your closet floors clutter-free and allows all of your shoes to be seen. I never considered using the organizer for any thing other than shoes. I was missing out. You can store any thing you want in those compartments. Duh! Such a simple and useful idea!

For me, I keep my dog leashes (and other pet supplies), keys, note pad/pen, mail (one slot for bills, another for shredding), scissors, umbrella, etc. This is a great way to keep those drawers clutter-free.

My organizer is located over the door of my laundry closet. Where are you going to put yours?

Enjoy!
Julie