Fashion Friday – Spring 2022 Trends

Posted on

It’s always so much fun to see what the new trends are each season. I admit, some trends are pretty way out there and I wouldn’t touch some of them. I always get excited when a trend is something that I love, or better yet, something that has come back into style that I’ve hung on to in my closet simply because I loved it so much. As they say, fashion comes and goes and things will always come back into style eventually.

Some people don’t pay any attention to trends and what is popular at the moment, they just wear what they love even if it isn’t in style. Which is fine, but, if you are like me, you may choose one or two things that are on trend for the season. I probably wouldn’t design my entire wardrobe on just trends. Number one it would be expensive to change your closet out each season with only new items. Number two, I think it’s important to have classic pieces in your closet that never go out of style. What fun to combine classic with a new fashion trend every once in a while.

We all have to get dressed each day, so we might as well make it fun!

Have you settled on your fashion style yet? If you are still struggling a bit, click here for an article I wrote on your fashion style. That is always a good beginning in deciding what trend you will decide on to add in for the season.

The second step would be your best color for your skin tone and hair color. Certain colors will look beautiful on you and some colors will look so so. We might as well wear a color that makes us look and feel beautiful, right?

Do you not know your color code yet? Click here and take a short quiz to find out.

The idea is to have your closet designed just for you. The correct style, the correct colors and of course the things that you love. Life is busy and we have things to do and accomplish each day, so when you step into your closet to get ready for the day, you don’t have to stand there trying to figure it out. It’s a good thing to just walk in with outfits put together and just get dressed and begin your day with confidence.

Well, let’s take a look at some of the Spring 2022 Fashion Trends:

Top 10 Style Trends:

Maxi Dresses, Crafty Denim, Y2K Nostalgia, Denim Skirts, Dark Wash Denim, Distressed Hemlines, Maxi Pleated Skirts, Statement Suits, Smart Shorts, Catsuits/Jumpsuits.

Top 10 Pattern Trends:

Gingham, Tie Dye, Animal Obsession, Checkered/Plaid, Polka Dots, Kitchen 80’s Floral, Screen Prints, Fruit Stripes, Water Color, Abstract Design.

Top 10 Jewelry Trends:

Pearls, Headbands, Chandelier Earrings, Chain Belts, Chain Link Everything, Chunky Chokers, Candy Colored Baubles, Bicep Bracelets, Silver/Chrome Jewelry, “Go Big or Go Home!”

Top 5 Bag and Shoe Trends:

Bucket Bag, Embellished Bags, Loafers, Platform Heels, Mary Jane’s

The Color of the year is called: Veri Peri, so you might want to add some purple in your wardrobe.

Did you see anything you are interested in trying for Spring? I might try a couple. I like the dark denim trend in jeans. I’ve always loved Mary Jane type shoes and embellished bags. Oh, and polka dots, always polka dots on anything for me. I went out shopping a few days ago and where I live, I’m lucky to see anything that is on trend in the stores so it’s probably a good thing that being on trend in everything I wear isn’t that important to me. If it’s something I really love, I will search for it online or if I see it in a local store, I get very excited and go for it if it isn’t over the top expensive.

Hope you enjoyed being updated on a few of the trends for this coming season. I can only imagine my friends who don’t care about fashion at all, you are yawning big time about right now….and that is okay. I do know that deep down we all want to feel good in how we present ourselves to our family, friends and the world when we go out. Our goal is to be a light to the world. We all have something to say and we want to be heard. Our presentation of ourselves is the first thing people hear and we have only a few seconds to be sized up for some to decide if they want to hear what we have to say. We know that God looks on our hearts and man looks on the outward appearance. You have much to offer the world, we need your voice.. so speak loudly or softly to offer hope to this world we are in.

I’ll share one little story about trends. Many years ago, denim skirts were the rage. I found the perfect denim skirt at a store called Stein Mart. I loved the style, the length, the color and if that isn’t it enough, it had a bling button at the waist. I was also at a good weight and it fit really well. I have hung on to that skirt always thinking it may come back in style and most importantly I was determined to fit it in again! About two months ago while cleaning out my closet, I came across the skirt. I thought, “Okay, Beverly, it’s time to get real with yourself, you aren’t going to fit into this skirt anytime soon and it’s been out of style forever!” I gave it away. Guess what’s in style? Yes, denim skirts! I also think just a few more pounds gone, I could have worn it for the Spring. Oh well, it’s gone and time to move on. To be honest, I’m glad I let it go, but, it’s just a reminder about fashion styles and trends. They come and go. So, don’t take it so serious…..learn what style is best for you, have fun and be confident in who you are!

Have a fun fashionable day!

Until next time,

A Great Tool For Organizing Your Fashions

Posted on

I have purchased the Closet Outfit Planner from Fashion Meets Faith since it was first designed as a new tool for women to have help in choosing their clothing for each new season. If you are familiar with the 27 Hangers program, this works perfectly with it. Imagine going into your closet each morning and you have 27 items that all coordinate together and you are able to make 30 plus outfits from those 27 pieces. Even more amazing is having all these pieces in your color code. My favorite part of the Closet Outfit Planner are the links with each item of clothing in order to purchase that item if needed. Otherwise, you can add your own pieces that are very similar to the recommended pieces.

An exciting announcement was made that for the first time we can now purchase a subscription to the Closet Outfit Planner. Which will be a bit of a discount if you purchased it separately. I’m excited to try it for the year and see how it goes. There are some extras that will be included with the subscription as well as receiving it 5 days earlier than those that purchase separately.

Here is the important part about this. The subscription offer ends on Friday. Yes, this Friday. Yes, Beverly is late posting this info! So, if you are interested, hurry over to the link I will provide at the end of this post.

Don’t worry if you can’t or don’t want to make that decision so fast. The Spring Closet Outfit Planner will be ready to purchase very soon.

Do you know your color code? I know I’ve talked about it many times, but, just in case you missed it. Here is a link to go to that you just answer a few easy questions and it will let you know what your color code is. Your color code is very important in the way of the colors that you wear that enhance your beautiful coloring.

Okay, here are some links for you to get going on choosing the perfect Closet Outfit Planner just for you. This is for the subscription plan. I will write a post when the single Spring Planner is ready very soon.

  1. Click here to determine what your Color Code is. If you already know your Color Code, YAY!
  2. Click here to purchase your subscription to the Closet Outfit Planner! I’m so excited for you! You will find more info on this page if you want to read more about it. Lot’s of fun info.
  3. Do you want to learn more about the 27 Hanger Program? Click here.

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to email me at beverly@beverlydillow.com or leave a comment at the end of this post.

Fashion should be fun regardless of style, color, body shape or budget! Let’s have some fun, shall we?

Until next time,

Go Into All The World and Share the Gospel! (and next door) – Part 1

Posted on

If you’ve been in a strong Bible believing and preaching church, then you have for sure heard a sermon on going out into the world to preach the gospel. We immediately think of missionaries. We may even think of a mission trip to a foreign land. I have heard of some churches who actually do mission trips right in their own country. We can probably take a look at our own city or town and I have a feeling we can find an area of town that we could easily say is a mission field. I find it interesting that we always leave that for someone else, possibly even the government to take care of that area of town and the people in it. It’s possible we know of a mission that permanently serves that area and we may sign up to go serve once in a while or donate money to the mission so they can continue their much needed work.

What do you think of when you read that verse?

I learned an important lesson many years ago when my Jim and I were serving in full time ministry. Jim had just graduated from seminary and we had been serving in a church for several years while he went to school and worked as associate pastor and youth pastor. We had a three year old little girl and expecting a little boy just any day when Jim got a call from a church that wanted him to be their new pastor in a small west Texas town about 8 hours away. We were a bit scared and excited at the same time. We had been ready to go set the world on fire for a couple of years. Not literally, we were just ready for something fresh and new and to do all we could to reach as many people as we could for Christ. After all, that is what God had called him to do and why we left everything we had in the first place so he could get his education at a seminary. Jim was ready to preach and lead a church and I was ready to follow wherever the Lord would lead us.

We moved into the church parsonage which was across town from the church. After we got moved in, we began meeting our neighbors. I can still remember each one of them. I often wonder where they all are now. The house across from us to the left was an elderly couple. Very nice, quiet and stayed to themselves. I remember sitting in their living room a few times visiting with them. The house across the street to the right was a single guy who worked all day, had a hot rod car that he worked on in the afternoon and evening and it was so loud it would wake my kids up from their naps and since I had a 3 year old and a 6 day old when we moved in, he wasn’t my favorite person, but I tried. The house right next door to us on the left was a couple with a little boy a bit older than our 3 year old. They were nice and cordial. A vacant lot was on our left. The house right across the street is the one I want to focus on. They were a young family with two cute little boys. The husband worked all day and she was home during the day and so very busy with those boys. They partied most weekends. They were also Mexican. A fun memory is she always yelled at her boys and called them Mijo. I can still hear her say it in my mind and it makes me smile. Oh, I also learned the art of burying a goat and cooking it underground. They did this on a regular basis along with a big game of volleyball with a million people in their front yard each weekend.


We got to know these neighbors and they were very kind and friendly and especially my new friend right across the street. We would walk together early in the mornings. I invited her to church several times and they declined each time. One time she shared with me that the pastor and wife that lived in the parsonage before us were not friendly at all and had done some things that weren’t very kind. I was embarrassed about that and I apologized for them. Long story short, I had the honor of leading her to Christ. She started coming to church and became our nursery leader and I felt so safe leaving my newborn and 3 year old with her in the nursery. I forgot to mention; this was a very small church and I had the pleasure of being nursery worker, sunday school teacher, children’s choir director, secretary and women’s ministry director. I’m smiling as I write all of this as so many memories. Some happy memories and some really crazy I would have never dreamed memories. I could write a book on that time we served there.

Okay, back to my whole reason of sharing this.

Remember how the pastor before us had treated this family so bad? Well, the ironic thing on it all is that the reason this little church needed a pastor was that previous pastor left to go serve as a missionary in……are you ready? Mexico! I know! That’s what I thought! He had a family directly across the street that more than likely were just like the people he said he was called to go serve in another country. He didn’t give this family the time of day and when he did it wasn’t in a good way. I have always remembered this story since then in the way of our mission field is right out our front door. If I can’t be a witness and care about someone that lives next to me and then I go to another land to share the gospel, I’m not worth a plug nickel….as my mom used to say. If I teach my kids to not care about their neighbor but, yet I send them off to another country for a “mission trip,” what is that all about? I meet young people like that all the time. They could care less about their testimony to others right here and treat others as if they don’t matter, but yet, they get all sorts of accolades because they went on a trip to Mexico or another country. Which, I think it is awesome to go serve at a mission, etc….but, I would think a test would be in the way you care about those right outside your door and in the school building or workplace. Witnessing to family, friends and neighbors has been listed as one of the hardest things to do. I think it’s because they know us better than strangers do. Something to think about. If you are like me…..we have some work to do.

Part 2 will be about reaching our neighbors. Yes, I’m still a work in progress. Please don’t think I’m Miss Neighbor aware of the world….I am still learning and growing in that area. I have failed many times as we have lived in a lot of places. New neighbors move in and out and I have missed many opportunities. It’s work, isn’t it? But, won’t it be fun to try to encourage one another to reach out in our neighborhood?

Until next time,

2022 Thoughts….

Posted on

I won’t say, “Wow, how did we get to 2022, wasn’t it just 2020!” No, I’m not going to say that! But, really, HOW? Okay….moving on…

I wanted to write on one of my favorite subjects today about being thankful and not only speaking of our thankfulness but, putting it in writing. I knew I had written on this subject a few times before and the latest was in January of 2020. When I was writing on my goals and dreams for 2020, I had no idea what was in store. What a wild and crazy year it was. It carried over into 2021 and thankfully things settled down mid 2021. I could say, I never want to think about that year and a half again, but, I can’t. I learned way too much. I love sharing the things that I learn in order to hopefully encourage or help someone else. One of the things that helped me navigate my way out of such craziness during that time was reading after others who had been in the same shoes. It gave me much hope. I’ll admit, sometimes I would read things and it made it worse. Oh, I hope I don’t do that for anyone.

Back to the main topic….thankfulness!

I’m going to share this post that I did when I was preparing for 2020:

https://beverlydillow.com/the-art-of-saying-thank-you/

This year I will continue on in being intentional in being thankful in my note writing and verbally.

While on the subject of writing thank you’s, here is an article I wrote on sending notes of encouragement:

https://beverlydillow.com/do-you-send-notes-of-encouragement/

Did you know we could change someones day with just a note of encouragement or a spoken word. We could even change a life!

Here is one more article while we are on the subject of encouraging others:

https://beverlydillow.com/do-you-bounce-the-ball-back/

Oh, to be someone that always bounces the ball back to others. Could be life changing!

I hope those articles will inspire you to go out and make a difference in someones life. I have a feeling it will make a difference in your life as well.

Happy New Year and I know that 2022 is going to be a good year! I’m counting on it.

Until next time,

Mistaken Text….or was it?

Posted on

This morning I checked my phone to see if I had any calls or texts. One of my texts was from a number that didn’t look familiar. It basically said, “Hey, how are you? I’m blah blah and we traded numbers at blah blah’s cocktail party, you want to get together?” (They really used a name, I’m just saying blah blah because I can’t remember the name they used.) Anyway, I started to delete it and block the number, but, I thought, well, she probably needs to know she has the wrong number. So, I simply wrote, “wrong number.” She quickly wrote back something like, “I can’t believe he gave me the wrong number, I’ve never had that happen before, I feel like a ****.” Then I thought, “hmmm….maybe this person needs to hear something about Christ.” This is the time my husband will say, “Why, you know you should always just delete a wrong number.” Anyway….She then sent a picture of her face. She looked like she was about 20 if that. I proceeded to tell her that she needed to trust Jesus as He will never let her down or deceive her. What have I got to lose, I’m 62. I’m a mom and a mimi! I sent her a scripture. Then she wrote back as if she didn’t read anything and said, “can you talk, etc.” The way “she” wrote this, I could tell, this wasn’t an accident. So, I then gave this person the plan of salvation and another scripture and blocked the number and deleted it.

A couple of lessons learned.

#1. There are people out there randomly sending what looks to be innocent texts to whomever, hoping they get a vulnerable person that will be pulled in to only the Lord knows what!

#2. When you read about a child or teen who is caught up in horrible positions, it could have begun with something like this text. Or even a grown adult who has no scruples as to know what is going on. That is what they hope for; that someone on the other end will take the bait. Many are hooked and caught in a horrible net of sin and deception.

#3. When you get a text or call like that, block it immediately. Don’t think you are going to win them….you are dealing with satan himself! He is out to destroy you and will stop at nothing!

I felt strongly that I needed to share this with you as January happens to be “Human Trafficking Awareness Month.”

The angle that I feel strongly about is in protecting your children. Just about every child/teen has a phone these days. If we only knew the snares that our kids can get into just with a simple phone that we think is there to keep them safe. Which it will, but, what discernment they must have in how to control the phone. Many parents just hand the phone to their children without any warnings or rules. Remember most kids can’t even make their own beds or brush their teeth without being told to, yet we give them a phone and expect them to have wisdom.

Many years ago, I led a group in our city that worked on fighting the por*nography problem in our area. It was bad and I will share soon what all we accomplished and what I learned. But, the reason I tell you that is one of the first things that I learned was when it came to allowing your children to go online, we have no idea what all is available at the touch of a keyboard. What I would tell parents is to imagine dropping your child off alone at Central Park in New York City at the entrance and tell them you will pick them up in a couple of hours. Really, any park these days. Would you? I didn’t think so! That is how it is when you let your child sit down at the computer. Anything and everything is lurking to wait to lure your child to them. Now days, it’s the phone. We hand a phone to our child/teen and anything and everything is waiting for just the right moment.

The text that I got this morning, wasn’t my first. For about two years I was on someones list that sent group texts with links to only the Lord would know. I have a feeling the way they got my number was from a valet service I used at a hotel in Fort Worth because, the texts began the day I left the hotel. (a very nice hotel, by the way.) Each time I would get one, I would block every number. Then more would come a few days later. I did call the police and they said that nothing could really be done as it was probably coming from over seas. So, I kept blocking the numbers for almost two years. They finally stopped. Maybe they ran out of numbers.

I can’t even imagine what someone would get into if they clicked on the links or answered a call. We really do need to take it very seriously what is going on in our world and how the enemy is out to steal, kill and destroy us and our children!

It’s so easy to get caught up in our happy, fulfilled lives that we think that nothing bad will happen or come near our home. I honestly feel that we shouldn’t be scared, but we should be aware. Don’t bury your head in the sand and think, “aww, that won’t happen here.” As a parent, we are the one that is responsible for our children’s safety. Not the schools, not the government, not the neighbor, etc. It’s you! So, what have you done to make sure your child is protected with the device that is in their hands that can go around the world and back? What about you? Are you on your toes and aware of how you can be affected as well?

One time I got a wrong number on my phone. He asked for so and so, I said “You have the wrong number.” I hung up immediately. He called back and I thought, “my goodness, did he dial the wrong number again?” He didn’t have nice things to say and I hung up as fast as I could! We can be caught off guard so easily. We need to always be asking the Lord for wisdom and discernment in this area!

I so hope this helps someone and prevents something really awful happening to an innocent child, teen or adult! May we always be aware and remember the world is not as safe as we wish it were. We are to be a light in a dark world; use much wisdom in every way possible!

Since it is “Human Trafficking Awareness Month,” I hope you will become aware of the problem, pray about it and always be alert. The area that I live in has been labeled as being rampant with this issue. I do my best to always be alert and aware of what is going on in my community and I keep my eyes open for anything that looks suspicious. I’m also making it more of a habit to not answer numbers that I don’t know and delete text the second they come in that are obviously not right.

I am sharing an article that I wrote describing a couple of instances I went through as a child and a teen. This was in the 70’s, so I can only imagine how much worse it would be today. I will always remember those times and I thank the Lord constantly for protecting me and giving me wisdom even as a young girl. I’m also including an article I wrote on what to do when hear an Amber Alert.

Too Close for Comfort!

Amber Alert…what can I do?

Mistaken Text….or was it?

Remember, don’t be fearful…be strong, discerning and wise!

Until next time,

Happy 2022!

Posted on

I’m excited about the new year, aren’t you? The last couple of years have been pretty crazy for sure. I bet we could share some very interesting stories over a glass of iced vanilla tea! Well, since it’s winter, maybe a cup of hot cocoa! If you live in west Texas, it can be 23 degrees one day and 78 degrees the next, so I have both on hand at all times.

I’m excited about getting back to my blogging on a regular basis. I have some fun things up my sleeve to write about. Well, it’s fun for me, anyway. My specialty is procrastination, so you can imagine with all the strange things going on, it was easy for me to say, “tomorrow, I’ll write!” Speaking of, that is one of my things I’m going to work hard on this year…..my procrastination. It’s really not that bad, but….it’s bad enough where I think, “wasn’t it just Thanksgiving yesterday, I haven’t even made the fall cookies I had the recipe for pulled out of my recipe book!”

I’ve been blogging for a long time and I did a little refresher on my site. I’m having to learn a new system and I’m not tech savvy at all, but, I’m learning….again! I’m having to go back and make my categories and I’m trying to put them where it will be easy to find a certain topic. Oh me…..I love to write about EVERYTHING…so my topics are through the roof. I’m still working on it all…so be patient with me.

My dream for my blog has always been that it would be like sitting down with a good magazine that is filled with all types of things to inspire, encourage and maybe think about something that you haven’t thought of before. I love beautiful pictures and I’m learning on that one, too. When I compare my pictures from when I began my blog many years ago, I get tickled. Hopefully, they will still get better as time goes on.

I’m not in the money making business, so you won’t find pop up ads all over the place. I read some very good blogs and it’s difficult sometimes with all the pop ups…so, that is a no no for me. I am trying to build my subscriber list, but, I don’t want a pop up saying “SUBSCRIBE!!!” I’ve just left that up to whatever happens, happens. I’m taking my annual social media break from FB so I’m not able to share my writing through that. For now, I’m still on IG….you never know, I may take a break from that one soon as well.

In our crazy world it is easy to say, “Lord, come quickly, this place is a mess!” I then remember, that we are to continue to live life to the fullest and be a light in any way we can….. not hibernate and shut down and wait for His return. We want to be busy when we hear that trumpet, don’t you think? Always, looking for His return all the while living a beautiful life!

I hope this year you will find much inspiration and food for thought as we make it in this world as a light and living life to the fullest just as He wants us to. We have much to do, much to share and much to dream about. Are you ready?

I am, we can do this!

I have one question before I close…

Do you like to leave comments on blogs or would you rather email your comment if you have one?

I lied….I have one more question….

Do you subscribe to blogs or do you just go to them when you see a link somewhere….or maybe you just remember where to go to read the latest on your favorite blogs?

*you can email or leave a public comment for your answers if you wish….it will help me make a couple of decisions on that area of my blog updates.

That’s all I have for today. May you have the best year ever and that great and wonderful things are in store for you and your family.

Blessings!

Lamps, Lamps and More Lamps…

Posted on

My name is Beverly and I am a lampaholic! There I feel better! The word is out; show me a pretty lamp and I will do whatever it takes to find a place for it. Just this week, I got a lamp in that I saw on an ad that screamed, “BUY ME!!!” I was a good girl though, I got rid of two lamps that didn’t make me smile too much. The lamps that I said goodbye to were a plain little buffet lamp and the other was cute, but the shade never stayed on straight. I was patient with him though, I corrected his shade for years, but, he had his chance….he is now gone!

As a young girl, I remember my mom driving us through a beautiful neighborhood on our way home from church during the Christmas season. We would drive through the neighborhood because of all the lights in the trees. Each house had twinkling lights in every tree. I began noticing that most of the houses had their windows open and I enjoyed seeing the beautiful lights shining through the windows. I would always see a lamp on a table that would softly light up the room and oh, how cozy it would look. I so wanted to go in each home and see the beauty. I think that may be when my love for decorating began; while seeing the beauty from the streets into beautiful windows and the lamp lighting up the room. I always would tell my mom that I was going to have a beautiful house someday and decorate it perfectly. Even to this day, I get a cozy feeling when passing a house in the evening and see a lamp on as it reflects the beauty of the room.

Jim and I get tickled when we are shutting down the house for the night. We get a workout turning all the lamps off. I always like to leave one on in another room to give a little light if one of us gets up in the night. If you have guests, it would be a welcome feeling to see a little light far away from their room.

I would count my lamps for you to give you an idea, but, you may think I’m crazier than you already do, so I will just keep it to myself. I did have a guest one time and she mentioned my lamps and wondered how many I had. I simply said, “I don’t know.”

Lampshades are just as important. Those are hard for me to find as I don’t like just a plain lampshade. I’ve dressed plain lampshades up with large glittery pins, flowers, ribbon, trims, whatever it takes to make it pop. I have even tried putting fabric on the shades and am in the process of putting Christmas fabric on a shade this week. I had a lamp that was a bronze color and painted it a Christmas red. Now it is asking for a cute Christmas fabric shade. I hope it turns out like I think it should.

I hope you will take a look around your home and see if there is a spot for a lamp. Get in the habit of using lamps instead of an overhead light. It makes such a cozier difference.

My challenge for you is:

*Drive in your favorite neighborhood and see if you see any lamps shining through the windows. See if it gives you that feeling that you would like in your own home.

* Find at least one spot in your home for a lamp and decorate around it. I would love to see what you did.

*Do a lamp inventory. Do your lamps make you smile? If it does, yay! If not, do something to it to make you smile. Paint it, change the shade, embellish the shade or say goodbye to it and get a fresh one.

Lamps? Who knew they could be such a life changer.

Think about this verse….I love this verse!

“Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105

I told you lamps were important!

If you missed the last post on the subject of Lights, click on the link:

Welcome Lights

Until next time,

Welcome Lights

Posted on

On our first trip to Hawaii, we had a reservation for a hotel close to the airport as we would get in very late. When we arrived, the hotel was nothing like we had hoped and saw online. I’m a hotel snob….I’m extremely picky so you know what happened. I refused to stay there. So, we got our bags and headed back down to the desk and a miracle happened; they refunded our money. We got in our car and began driving to look for a new place. Little did we know that we would not find anything for another 4 hours as we drove around the island. We had never been there before so we really didn’t know where we were or how long it would take to find something. All we knew is the road was driving along side the ocean. The moon was reflecting off of the water and we stopped at a couple of places that looked like a bed and breakfast. They were closed of course and we kept driving. Around 4 a.m., I could see a cluster of lights down in a valley area. We decided to head toward the lights. As we pulled up, it was the most beautiful hotel. The girl at the open air desk was so kind and friendly. Such a welcome for two weary travelers. She told us we were getting one of their best rooms. At the time we could have cared less, we were just thankful to be somewhere safe and to get some rest. We got to our room and crashed. The next morning we opened the window and I can’t describe how beautiful it was. We had a corner room on a high floor with surrounding windows. We overlooked the ocean and it was breathtaking! When I think back on that adventure, all I can remember is those lights that we saw in the distance. How thankful I am for the lights and that we had sense enough to follow them. Of course, I know who was guiding us the entire time. All that to say, lights are important. I love lights of all kinds. I love them so much, that I will be writing about lights for a few posts on my blog. I hope you will follow along and we can be enlightened on a few things. How did you like my word that popped in my head just now…..enlighten? I love that word!

The way we light up our home on the outside is very important to us. I’m loving this time change where it gets dark early in the evening because not only things slow down and we can enjoy peaceful evenings more, but, I can enjoy all the lights longer. Yes, I’m one of the crazy ones that like the getting dark early time change.

Porch lights are important. We turn ours on as soon as they are needed. I do not want a dark house. I want it to look welcoming and having lights on outside to me, look welcoming and safe. I want our house to be like those lights that brought me comfort in Hawaii while looking for a place to stay. We like to walk in the evenings and it’s interesting to pass by houses that are completely dark. Such beautiful homes but, if they only knew how more beautiful their homes would look if they had some lights shining. Maybe it’s just me, but, you can’t beat beautiful porch lights reflecting the beauty of your home. It speaks coziness, welcoming, safety and a beautiful life is happening in that home.

Landscape lighting add even more to our homes. We had lights put on our trees. I love that look! We are now working on getting some soft lights that shine up from the flower beds onto the house. If that isn’t enough, we added “party lights” in our back yard. We have large windows across the back and looking out in the back yard with the lights on the trees and then the party lights glimmering, well…I just love it!

Have you ever been invited to someones home in the evening and you pull up and its all dark. You see some lights peeking through the windows and that lets you know someone may be home, but, you make your way to the door and you feel around for the door bell. Then someone turns a bright light on and after your eyes adjust you make your way into their home. What a difference it would make if when you pulled up and saw lighting around the house and you could clearly see your way up the walkway and as you ring the door bell you would have such a different welcome feeling, don’t you think?

Lights…..they are so important! I hope this encourages you to take a look at your home tonight and see what you can do to make it look welcoming and cozy to those that pass by or who are coming to your home for a visit.

*Drive around your neighborhood or other neighborhoods and notice how people light or don’t light up their homes at night. What are some things that you like and don’t like?

*Make adjustments if needed to your home to get the look you want.

*Take a drive around your block and take a look at your home. Does it make you smile? Go for a walk and as you walk up to your home, do you get that feeling that you hope others have when they see your home?

*Don’t save the lighting of your home for special occasions, keep your lights on each evening.

*Bonus! Invite someone over in the evening for dinner or dessert and have your lights set just right and see what a difference it makes. Of course, you probably won’t have anyone say, “Oh, your lights are beautiful, I feel so welcome here!” But, I have a feeling they will feel welcome the second they pull up to your home.

I hope you will follow along the next few posts as we talk about lighting. You are probably wondering, “What more can Beverly have to say about lights?” Well, I have lot’s to share on this subject that I only hope it helps you think about things differently than before or affirms your thoughts that you already have and not to mention, my brain is always thinking and it helps me to write about it.

If you haven’t subscribed to my blog, I would love for you to so you won’t miss a thing! Click here to subscribe. You can also go to the sidebar and find the subscribe form.

I can’t wait to hear what you are doing about the lighting outside of your home. Your home is a reflection of all that you are; let others see it.

Remember the song when you were little from Sunday School, “This Little Light of Mine, I’m gonna let it shine, this little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine! Hide it under a bushel, NO! I’m gonna let it shine…..”

I love that song!

Don’t hide your home, let it shine!


“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Matthew 5:14

Until next time…

Fall 2021 Beauty Series – Self Care

Posted on

If you love beauty products and trying new things, you have probably had fun in finding your perfect nail color, hair products, skin care and of course the even more fun part….make up! I understand some people would rather not think about any of that….you just do your best and get by with what you have to. That’s what makes our world go around….we are all different, we have our own likes and dislikes. I’m on the boat that loves it all! If I’m going to do something, I might as well enjoy it and have some fun with it.

I felt I couldn’t talk about beauty tips if I didn’t hit on the body image area…..Okay…this is where I don’t have so much fun. So, as you read this, keep in mind that I’m probably talking to myself. So here we go….I do pray that something I share is what you are needing to hear for encouragement or affirmation.

On the subject of basic health. If you have followed my writings for long, you know that I had a deep fear of doctors most of my life. I will say this, when I had my two babies, which everyone is always shocked that I actually went through that….I had the best OBGYN ever! I still remember him and his nurse. I had the best nurses at the hospital. Matter of fact, the same nurses were there when I had my second baby. Yes…they remembered me! Not sure if thats a good thing or not. They were the best. My main nurse had a name tag that is implanted in my mind. Ann Fear! Yes….I’m not kidding. The only time I went to the doctor before that was when I had to as a child. We just didn’t go to the doctor for much. When I was about 6 years old and very sick with I guess a flu bug and a dr. came to the house and gave me a shot. My brother had a cowboy suit on with his toy cowboy gun and told the doctor to leave his sister alone as I was basically running from him. I bet that was a wild visit for that doctor.

A dentist…oh my! I won’t share much…but, huge fear! As a child I had a really bad experience with a really mean dentist. Let’s just say my tooth he pulled flew across the room. That’s all I’ll share on that one. But, we had a neighbor who was a dentist when the kids were young. I went to him and he was the most gentle and kind dentist ever.

After my last baby was born, I went for a check up. Let’s just say I was horrified at the questions this doctor asked me. I was embarrassed, I never wanted to go for another check up again. I didn’t.

Last year opened up a new world for me. I went through several months of anxiety issues. I went to a doctor who is the husband of a dear friend of mine. He was so kind, so gentle and very understanding. Yes, he was shocked I actually went to a doctor. This began a few months of going to a gynecologist, dentist and even a natural health doctor. Yes, I even had a short stay in the hospital to have a test done. I have to say this…..I never felt so cared for and treated so kindly than I have at all of these various doctors and hospital. I know without a doubt the Lord blessed me in a great and mighty way. You just have no idea, the fear that had built up in me for doctors. You also have no idea, the amazing way that I felt total peace with every doctor and nurse I had to see last year. I’ve even been back for check ups. Yes, I break out in a sweat before I go, but, I almost skip out of their offices due to the peace and assurance I have felt. I know who goes before me. I can’t imagine not having that peace.

So here I am, encouraging you to take care of what needs to be taken care of. Even if it’s just a check up. You can do it. If you need encouragement, I’m here. If I could go with you, I would. Who would ever believe that Beverly would encourage someone to go to the doctor. I do have a long way to go in the fear area, but, I’m so much better, trust me. Deep down, I pray I never have to go back, but, I know check ups are important. Let’s don’t talk needles just yet, though.

Since this is October, we are seeing all the prompts to go have a mammogram, right? Lot’s of talk about breast cancer which will put the fear in to you for a month or so. I was encouraged by my natural doctor and friend to do Thermography instead of a mammogram. Yes, it was way out of my box and I just had to back my ears (as my mom always says) and do it. Yes, it’s embarrassing…..but, the peace of mind is worth it. Click here for more info on the office I went to for this. I can’t say enough good things about them! I follow their social media as well for much information and encouragement in the area of health.

That’s my crazy world on the doctor issue. Let’s move on as I’m now sweating just thinking about it all!

Now we come to diet and exercise. Yep, my other area of struggle. Okay, okay! I hate to exercise! I don’t like veggies or anything that looks strange. Yes…..I just got off the elliptical a few minutes ago and did some floor exercises, I try to walk each night a couple of miles and I try to eat healthy. But, put a croissant in front of me or a piece of chocolate cake and it’s all over! I am an emotional eater. I eat when I’m sad….I eat when I’m happy…..I eat when I’m bored. Breads, chips and mexican food are my favorite. I know! It’s a struggle. So in order to lose some weight, I have to say no to all of that and how hard it is. The I read after someone who says, “I just cut back a little and lost 50 pounds!” That hasn’t worked for me either. or….the weight loss groups…..I’ll lose, but the second I go back to eating normal….it comes back as fast as it left. The real story is, I have to make a lifestyle change. This is where it gets tricky…..I love my life….I’m happy…..so….making a “lifestyle change” is doubly hard. Again….I’m working on it. If it works, you will be the first to know. I’ll keep you posted. I’m not sharing my plan as I may change it a hundred times before something works for me. I never really had a weight issue until after my last baby was born! It’s all his fault. I’m laughing, it’s a joke. To have that little cute red headed boy, I’d gladly gain it all back again. Oh, wait…..maybe that’s already happened before….let’s move on.

Here is what I think it all boils down to. We can look great on the outside, but if we don’t feel good on the inside it will eventually show. We want to feel good on the inside so we can live long happy full filled lives. Don’t you think? How do we do that?

We make sure we are in good health. If not, we get it fixed. (yes, I’m a black or white person)

We exercise and take care of our bodies. We stay in good shape so as we age we can keep living that long happy fulfilled life.

We eat right. Our bodies need various things, so we make sure we eat properly.

We take vitamins and various supplements that make us stronger.

We think positive good thoughts. We fill our mind with good things so we have a good outlook on life.

Remember how I said to make yourself a research project. Do that today and figure out what you need to do to take care of the body God gave you. Study to learn some new things about health, be open to think outside of the box a little bit in the area of natural health. There is so much information; stay on track for what you need to do to live that happy healthy fulfilled life! Even with various ailments, you can still be positive and still be happy, healthy and fulfilled! Let’s do it!

Disclaimer*I’m not a doctor. Nor, could I never be one…I’d faint first! Take care of your body, it’s all you have. Pray, do serious research and talk to a doctor that you trust if you need to.

Did you miss previous posts in this series? Here are the links:

Nail Care

Hair Care

Skin Care

Don’t miss the next post….be sure to subscribe. The box to subscribe is on the right side of this post. If you have any issues feel free to contact me. Hope to see you soon!

Fall 2021 Beauty Series – Skin Care

Posted on

When I was a young teen I washed my face with Camay soap. I don’t even remember putting a moisturizer on. I probably used hand lotion, I just don’t know. I do know that I loved Camay soap mostly because it had a cameo on it. I’ve loved cameos since I was a young girl. Show me a cameo and I want it! (I even wore White Shoulders Perfume simply because of the cameo on the bottle.) When I was about 15, my forehead broke out in little bumps. I was horrified. My mom took me to a Merle Norman boutique. We couldn’t afford much in those days and my mom splurged greatly and bought me the complete kit of face wash, toner and a moisturizer plus a bottle of pink stuff that was a mask to use once or twice a week. When I used the mask, I would hide in my room as it dried my face up like a hard shell. I always thought it looked like I had a severe burn accident on my face. When I would wash it off, my face would be red for hours. She also got me the make up. I used Merle Norman for many years. When it became too expensive while my husband was in seminary and those crazy years of zero money, I would use my favorite…Camay soap, Noxema (loved that smell) and Sea Breeze which would sting horribly. Then I would use Cover Girl make up. Aww…those were the days.

Many years later, someone invited me to a Mary Kay presentation. I loved the products and bought it all! I even signed up to sell it. I really did love the products. I was a Mary Kay consultant for 4 years and one day I just decided it wasn’t for me to selll. I’m still a consultant, but I just buy it for myself, family and friends.

I’m thinking about 5 years or so ago, I became bored with with the Mary Kay products. I love trying new things and I was always attracted to the pretty bottles and colors of other products when I was out shopping. I played around with Estee Lauder and Clinique. I always struggled with finding people that worked the counter that knew what they were talking about. It seemed they could care less what you bought and what was right for my skin. I kept trying other products though. I also tried Bobby Brown, IT and Elemis. I also have tried Rodan and Fields, which I love. Right now I am using Rodan and Fields lash booster. It really works, by the way. I am now back to using Mary Kay and I have my eye on another brand when I go through this last set.

I have another skin care set that I want to share with you. As you might have read that I love Southern Lady magazine and I have been to several of the conferences. There is a company that advertises in this magazine and at the conference this company always has a booth. I’ve been attracted to it for the way it looks and the story behind it and of course….it’s a southern company. Last year they sent me a sample set to try. I loved it. The only thing is while I was trying it out, was about the same time I went through a hard time with my health. So after I used it a few times, I set it all to the side and I just recently tried the rest of it. Click here to go to the Sapelo Skin Care site. I just love the packaging…that’s what always attracts me first to anything. The ingredients are natural and if your skin will look like the two ladies who created it….well…..it’s hard to not want to buy it all! Be sure to visit their blog as well.

I would love to hear what skin care is your favorite and if you are satisfied or looking for something new.

Now that we are in a new season and the weather is changing, this is a perfect time to make some adjustments in your skin care. If you are like me and you get bored easily, it’s a great time to try something new. I have dry skin and it gets even drier in the cooler months. I’m always looking for a moisturizer that is very moisturizing but not greasy feeling. If you use products from the department store, this is a fun time as most are offering special gifts with purchase. That is always fun. I have to be careful as I’m attracted to the beautiful colors and the special cases they offer. I’m a perfect candidate for marketing. Oh…..put a cameo on it and I’m SOLD! Or a PEARL….double SOLD.

A few years ago, a make up brand actually did their compacts of eye color and blush in sparkly cases with cameos on them. YES….I still have them…I bought several….I couldn’t stop myself!

This isn’t my actual case, I found this on Pinterest so you could get an idea of how mine looks. I have a black and a white one of two different sizes/products.

Okay, back to our topic of skin care.

Now is a good time to set your sites on the skin care you want to use through out this season. Keep everything you use in one place. Some like to set it out, especially if it’s in pretty bottles on a pretty tray. I tried that for a while, but, I like a clear counter by my sink so I now keep it all in it’s own drawer in trays.

Go through all of your products you don’t and won’t use….time to say goodbye. I know…it’s hard!

Remember how we talked about doing research? Do a study on your skin type and the products that work best for you.

There are so many books and videos on make-up applications to try. If you know someone who does their make- up really well, ask them for advice. Be sure to keep your make up brushes clean. I clean mine once a week. Let’s don’t talk about all the cute make up brushes…yes…I just bought one that has glitter in the handle….yes I did!

If you have a young daughter, be sure to teach her early the importance of taking care of her skin. Make sure she is using products designed for her skin type. Teach her proper make up application. Never ever go to bed without washing face first. That’s a bad habit to get into. Yes…I did that as a teen sometimes when I was too lazy to wash my face at night…I remember mascara on my pillow….bad girl!!!

Once you find your skin care line and make up choices, be satisfied and content. I don’t think we should worry and always think we aren’t good enough. Just have fun with it.

I really feel sorry for young girls, okay, even us older ones in how we see models in ads, social media and on t.v. who are not really real. They are airbrushed…use filters and other things to look flawless. We can easily begin comparing ourselves when our skin doesn’t look smooth as silk with a beautiful glow and our lashes aren’t reaching up to our eyebrows while our lips are puffed up with the perfect shade of shiny color. The sooner we can learn to be content in who we really are, the better and easier life will be. Of course, isn’t it fun to try new things….who doesn’t want long lashes, smooth skin and puffy lips? We just have to keep our head on straight and protect our young girls from the comparison issue. How can we teach them that when we are comparing ourselves with filtered models? I know it’s a struggle!

Last but not least………You be you, everyone else is taken! Don’t take it all so serious, enjoy the process of taking care of you and finding just the right products that you love!

Previous Posts in this Fall Beauty Series:

#1 – Nail Care

#2 – Hair Care

Until next time…