MeadowTree Perspectives

Back To The Black T-Shirt

A couple of months ago I wrote about the importance of having a black T-Shirt. I would even go so far as to say it is on those top lists of things to have in your closet. In that earlier post I did two stylings using a black crew neck shirt the I thrifted from Goodwill.

This time around it’s all about the V-Neck which I like better. For me, the V looks better with jewelry and is more flattering and I think one can do more with a V-Neck.

Today I am working with a shirt bought from American Giant, an American company that manufactures all its products in Middlesex, North Carolina. I will write a bit more about them at the end.

In this style play, the two main characters stay the same but the supporting cast changes. This also brings up something else I really enjoy: accessories. You can’t have too many because they can change the mood just like that!

Let’s get started…

The two main players today are American Giant’s premium short sleeve shirt and an Apt. 9 geometrical stretch print pencil skirt with a front angle slit detail (clearance rack-Kohls).

Act 1

This is a simple look for work or lunch with a little pop of red. There are quite a few of support players in this look.

I picked a heavy silver chain and pearl Stella and Dot necklace which is discontinued but I found one on eBay and you will like the price.

My bag is a Rebecca Minkoff Love Bag in a red patent reptile finish. She had these on clearance last winter. Her Love bags are one of the best classic looks around and she always has a few on sale. Check them out on her site.

My black Marc Fisher Sunny4 d’Orsay flats keep showing up because they are the best flats I have ever gotten. By the way, they are on sale now!

For some extra added fun and color, I put some vintage Mahjong playing pieces that I got from Frilly Feet. They are attached with some pretty strong magnets but a couple of times I have hit them on something while walking and one has popped off. I’m not sure if this is a inherent problem with magnets (and these are super strong) or that I am just more clumsy than most.

I’ve never stopped loving chain belts and found this one on eBay. I’ve used belts with everything today. I know belts emphasize the middle and I do have a thicker middle…but I love belt…so I guess I really don’t worry too much about that. Finally, I chose some odd cuffs I thrifted here and there.

Act 2

I made just a few cast changes. I added a silk scarf that I painted, changed out the silver chain belt for a skinny black one (Salvation Army) and removed the shoe clips. The look looks pretty much the same but I just added more “me” with my scarf which has a lot of reds and oranges in it. Painting on silk is fun.

Act 3

This could be worn to a friends get together event and just stand out a little bit. I realize my shirt is covered up but this just shows this shirt works under jackets just fine.

I added an older Juliana Collezione jacket (eBay) and changed out the pearl chain for a red glass three strand necklace that I picked up at the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art’s gift shop. Always check out Art Museum gift shops. One of my favorite online shops is the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

I traded my red bag in for a smaller Coach bag (still reptile) and changed shoes. I’m wearing a pair of Tahari textured heeled booties (HauteLook) for a more modern twist. I like these booties but realize they aren’t everyone’s cup of tea; I’ve seen some negative comments about them at times. But I always believe in being and wearing what you want and these pointy-toed babies get to come out and play a good amount.

Act 4

With this look I took a different direction and went with something more casual and edgier. I turned the shirt into a tunic and added a cinch belt that I picked up a Target.

With cooler weather, I added one a grey Chi Chi layering shell. Chi Chi is a small New York company but they make their garments in China. However, I love these shirts and just can’t find a replacement for them anywhere. I am finally going to get a Serger so maybe I can experiment a little and make my own. Only time will tell.

This would be a good one for me to substitute teach in and went with some boots that I know are comfortable to walk longer stretches. These Rebecca Minkoff grey suede Bensons are the ones. You can’t find these anymore (well, maybe on the second hand market) but all of her boots are on SALE now.

I added a vintage Carlos Flachi clutch which I found on eBay. The necklace keeps up that edgier look but don’t ask me where I got it, I just can’t remember.

Act 4, Scene 2

I didn’t change anything out but added my big plaid Mud Pie Phoenix Reversible Ruana in Marshmallow & Charcoal that was gifted by Lillian’s KC during her wonderful blogger event this summer. Doesn’t it just take this look to a new level?

American Giant

As I mentioned earlier, my shirt is by American Giant which manufactures all of its clothes in Middlesex, North Carolina. Wikipedia sums American Giant story up better that I can.

“American Giant was founded in February 2011 by Bayard Winthrop. Winthrop started the company to address what he saw as a lack of affordably priced high-quality American Made products in the market. He believed that by changing the economics of distribution and marketing, a business could re-deploy those savings into product made in America sold at mainstream prices. The company was named one of the 50 Most Innovative Companies by Fast Company in 2015 and cited for “breathing new life into U.S. US Manufacturing”.

I paid $36.50 for my shirt. “What!?” you ask, “you paid that much for a T-Shirt? Don’t you know you can get one a lot cheaper.” I believe you get what you pay for. I have bought cheap T-shirts from Walmart and Target and have been disappointed. Some of these shirts are not even cut on the straight of the grain (which means they will eventually twist), have dyes that fade and I am now aware of the conditions they were made. I checked the price on a J Crew shirt which was $30 and all they could say about that one is that it is “imported”.

Here’s what American Giant tells me about my shirt:

This shirt will last. They also have a lighter cotton T-Shirt for 24.50 and maybe someday I will get that one and try it out.

I didn’t find out about American Giant on my own. I listen to Charles Beckwith’s American Fashion Podcast. If you want to know what is going on with American designers and the American fashion industry, I highly recommend this show.

American Podcast’s interview with Bayard Winthrop can be found below.

https://americanfashionpodcast.com/2017/02/american-giant-founder-bayard-winthrop/

When I grew up, American’s spent about 15% of their income on apparel (now we spend less than 5%). These were well made garments and they were kept and worn for a long time. You can still go to Goodwill and find these garments in perfect shape. When I go thrifting, the first thing I look for is “Union Made”. I know it is now impossible to have a wardrobe that is 100% American made but a piece here and there is a reasonable goal.

Added Note

Would you like to try and be more ethical in your fashion choices? One of my favorite YouTube channels is by Justine Laconte, a French born, American trained, German fashion designer. She just gave a Ted talk in Greece about how to get started in this exciting adventure. I’ve put in the link below.

That wraps it up for this week. Thanks for stopping by. I’ll have another blog bit early next week because this Friday is a 1st Friday and that means it will be time You are certainly welcome to leave a comment or two or three. I love to hear from you.

I link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

Husband Michael and I took photos used in the post today. Michael does a bit of editing from time to time.

Again, thanks for stopping by. Take care……..

Now it’s time for my 2nd Loved 1st Friday blurb!

The November 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup will stay open until November 30th.

Any post on a blog, Instagram, Facebook or the like can linkup to this style celebration. If you can copy and paste the URL in the Linky box, you are good to go!

One item is quite OK—a hat, skirt, pants, shoes, purse, or a piece of jewelry. That item (or items) can be from a thrift shop, eBay, consignment shop, vintage boutique, one of the online consignment shops such as RealReal–or even something a friend gave you because they didn’t want it anymore.

When you do post, I would appreciate a description about your 2nd Loved item (or items), what type of shop you found it and what drew you to it. Tell as much or as little as you want. To be featured in my collage, which I will put on Instagram along with your links, you have to say what item is second loved. That is a “have to”.

If you have never participated in a linkup before, no fear. Go to Linkup 101 guide that is found on my 2^nd Loved 1^st Friday linkup page (also found at the top in the tab section).

Just click the frog below to link up and join the fun!

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

To The Canyon We Went

Packing for our big adventure to the Grand Canyon was a challenge. In retrospect, both Michael and I took too much. For myself, I wanted things that would take me from the Grand Canyon’s cooler North Rim to the warmer South Rim. On Southwest Airlines, we have one checked bag each which meant that I had more room than usual when I travel with a carry-on.

The Plan

I tried to have a versatile capsule wardrobe, one that would take me from cold to warm days. I based my selections on two important items that I found for our trip; a Barbour (eBay) microfiber brown plaid jacket and a leather Peralina (Poshmark) backpack bag (also brown). Brown can be boring so I needed things to jazz it up. Three silk scarfs and a few things in burgundy did the trick.

Below is what I wore for the plane trip to and from Las Vegas. We didn’t stop in Vegas but immediately rented a car and headed toward the North Rim. Air-wear was my hand knitted vest, brown jeggings, cranberry turtleneck, Vans, and a vintage silk Eileen Gold square scarf.

I’ve had this faux fur collar denim vest forever and it came in handy on cooler days. Here I paired it with my burgundy Pendleton merino turtleneck, navy jeans, Vans, and a Bill Blass vintage silk scarf.

Below is the same outfit but once we got to the North Rim, I exchanged the denim vest for the Barbour jacket. This jacket is a dream. It has zippers, flaps, hidden pockets and event a hood nestled under the collar. I had hunted for a Barbour “anything” on the second hand market for a year and this one is just my cup of tea. Michael is very jealous and now I am hunting for similar Barbour for him.

A brief fashion break for a Big Horn sheep! This guy walked up right behind me while I was setting on a rock. We’d been to Colorado twice and I was always on the look out for one of these gentleman but with no luck. Throughout this trip, views of the Grand Canyon were spectacular and the magnificence hard to describe. But on this day, seeing that Big Horn made my day.

The hardest working piece I took was my CC Beanie, in Oatmeal Confetti, which I found at Lillians KC. This hat was on my head more often than not. These hats are light and handy. If you don’t have a boutique near you that carries them, Amazon has an amazing selection.

This was my one color change because I just couldn’t do brown every day. I took my Eileen Gold silk scarf and turned it into a necklace.

Now you can see why I needed to bring the black layering shell with me: the back feature is the reason I snapped this top up at Goodwill.

Another wildlife break! Elk are everywhere and aren’t afraid of humans. Just keep a healthy distance and everything will be fine.

This is another capsule combination and I really went head to toe brown on this day and added the third silk scarf that I took along, a vintage Vera Neuman. On my feet are my beloved Timberland boots. However, one of the soles started coming unhinged. Michael fixed it the minute we got home and they are ready to hit the road again.

We did walk down the Bright Angel Trail for a bit. Without proper hiking shoes, we didn’t venture too far. I started running about a month before our trip so I would be able to walk longer distances with ease. My desire to be at the bottom of that canyon is pretty strong… that is all I am going to say about that for now.

American Bison open range near the North Rim: we stopped the car to take a few snaps.

Michael was a lot more fearless than me. “You be careful!” was uttered a lot.

Oh, the Ravens! These gutsy birds were everywhere. I’m sure it has to do with the easy pickins’ and there were plenty of signs saying, “Let the Ravens feed themselves.”

Hello from the South Rim.

In the end, my final thoughts about what I took on the trip:

PANTS:

2 pairs of navy jeans,

1 pair of black jeans

1 pair of brown jeggings

This was perfect. I used them all.

TOPS:

3 merino turtlenecks (oat meal, burgundy and brown

1 Thick cotton turtleneck

2 lighter tops, 1 cranberry rayon turtleneck and 1 black tweed top

2 layering shells, black and taupe.

This was a total of six tops. I could have left the lighter cranberry turtleneck, oatmeal turtleneck and taupe-layering top home.

OUTERWEAR:

1 Barbour mid-weight jacket

1 heavy denim vest

1 hand wool hand knitted vest

1 viscose beige cardigan

1 light poncho/ruana

The poncho could have stayed home. I would trade it out for a hoodie with a zippered front which would have been much more practical.

SHOES

1 pair of gel insoles

1 pair of Vans

1 pair of black walking Puma’s

1 pair of very old brown Timberland boots (1995) which broke down the first day I wore them.

All could have all stayed home. Next time I will research and take one pair of good hiking shoes. After talking to a 62-year-old lady who had just finished her first rim-to-rim hike of the Grand Canyon, I am going to look into Vasque hiking shoes. Anyone out there who has a brand that they believe in, let me know.

EXTRAS:

3 Silk scarfs-a big yes! That is how I got my color.

1 small wool scarf

1 CC Beanie

1 cranberry beret

1 pair of gloves

1 watch

1 belt (reversible brown/black)

The small wool scarf should have been left out. I wished I had taken one of my ball caps. Yes, to keeping my head warm but I needed something extra to keep the sun off although I did wear 30 SPF on my face and hands every day. I didn’t take one piece of jewelry and didn’t miss wearing it.

Souvenirs

Can you tell anything about a person by their souvenirs they bring back? I’m not sure, but here’s what I decided to bring back (along with Michael’s over 2,000 photos). As noted above, I didn’t bring any jewelry with me but discovered two sets of Zuni crafted earrings that were just beautiful to me and Michael. The silver pair are handmade Navajo pearls and second inlaid coral. I picked these up at Jacob Lake Inn’s gift shop. The inn, where we stayed while at the North Rim, is a family owned and run establishment. I was lucky enough to visit with the daughter who buys for the shop and seemed quite knowledgeable about the artists she selects. As a side note, I would like to eventually stay at the Grand Canyon Lodge-North Rim. Unfortunately, it was already closed for the season. That dining room is something else!

I also bought a small handy sketch book with the elusive Cougar (didn’t see one of those) and a small handwoven mug mat by Lucilla Ortiz Baca. Then there are the Ravens. I had to have something to remind me of those incredible birds and I now have a new cap. Here in Missouri, we have crows. You can’t live among corn fields and not often hear Crows. But I had never seen a Raven and was, like other canyon visitors, quite fascinated by these artful and crafty birds. The cap is from Hermit’s Rest, the farthest western point we reached on the South Rim.

InsideHermitslodge — Inside the Mary E.J. Colter designed Hermit’s Rest. A rare and early female architect, Mary E.J. Colter designed many landmark buildings for the Fred Harvey Company and the Santa Fe Railroad, particularly in the Grand Canyon National Park.

This was such a memorable trip. I am only sorry that it took us so late in our lives to get there. My gut feeling is that we are not done with the Grand Canyon. I am closing with advice purportedly from Raven:

Be curious
Use your wits
Don’t be a picky eater
Make your voice heard
Don’t let life ruffle your feathers.

That wraps it up for this week. Thanks for stopping by. I’ll have another blog bit next week which will be a bit early because it will be time for the December 2nd Loved 1st Friday. You are certainly welcome to leave a comment or two or three. I love to hear from you.

I link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

Both Husband Michael and I took photos used in the post today. Michael does a bit of editing from time to time.

Again, thanks for stopping by. Take care……..

Now it’s time for my 2nd Loved 1st Friday blurb!

The November 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup will stay open until November 30th.

Any post on a blog, Instagram, Facebook or the like can linkup to this style celebration. If you can copy and paste the URL in the Linky box, you are good to go!

If you have never participated in a linkup before, no fear. Go to Linkup 101 guide that is found on my 2^nd Loved 1^st Friday linkup page (also found at the top in the tab section).

Just click the frog below to link up and join the fun!

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Red, Tan & Brown

In September, I when shopping at Savers (a for-profit thrift store), a red oversized wool blend sweater made a flying leap off its rack into my cart! OK, I know you don’t believe that. It was more like I made a flying leap towards it, grabbed and headed for the dressing rooms. And that is the truth.

This sweater just looked too comfy and perfect for those cold days. The trendsetters are pushing red this year but I didn’t have to be pushed that hard. I had a few red pieces already and just needed a little encouragement to wear them. My sweater is just the last red added to my closet.

After wearing my “new to me” sweater a couple of times around the house, I decided I needed to find a way to wear it out and about. Pairing it with black, gray, white or denim was out because for most of my life that has always been my usual solution.

Taking my clue for the trees with their colorful fall leaves outside, I decided to go with browns and tans. I Googled “red and brown” to get a few ideas and then hit my closet.

My closet shopping came up with this combination. Three of seven pieces are 2nd Loved. Others were previously bought new by me and one belongs to Michael, but I keep borrowing it (can you guess which one?).

The GAP sweater is a 55% Nylon/15% Merino Wool/15% Polyester combination. I was surprised that so little wool is actually in the sweater because it looks as if it could be 100% wool. For cleaning, I will still air it out outdoors and spot clean it like wool. If it needs washing, I will try my silk cycle but still dry it flat (no dryer).

In these photos, you can’t see the sweater’s V-neck but you can see the longer length in back which gives it a tad more character.

My velour stretch pants are by Dear John, picked up on clearance at Sophie’s, a locally owned boutique in Joplin. When in Joplin, I occasionally hit the clearance rack there. Hopefully, Michelle is with me because shopping with either of the girls is a lot more fun than going by myself.

The camel boyfriend jacket was a Salvation Army find with two tags. One says Augustus (which I found no relevant information about) and another that states,” Made in the USA by American Craftsman“. Along with my Nanette Lepore satchel (she doesn’t sell bags online anymore), it was what I wore in my very first style post HERE that was almost two years ago.

Another thrifty bargain is the brown and copper metallic large scarf. It added the balance of brown that I wanted.

My Nine West Oxfords are old and have been on here a few times.

If you guessed that my hat was Michael’s, you’re right. I picked this Ascot Ivy hat by Epoch for him at our favorite hat store in Kansas City. I really think it has been on my head more than his.

I still wear red with black and just wore it (below) to our first symphony concert. I feel it’s a very classy color combination but just wanted something different for day wear.

**This look is perfectly at home in this 2nd Loved post. Only the bag and necklace were bought new. Everything else came from either eBay, Poshmark or thrift shops.**

You can tell by this post that I shop a lot of neutrals. I know when it comes to a big purchase, I will more than likely stay with classics and keep them neutral. This is why I so appreciate charity and consignment shops. They let me experiment, play around and wear different colors and patterns. They liberate me.

Now to the 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup. For inspiration, I’m am again kicking it off with a collage of the wonderful slow fashion stylists that linked up last month. Our little community is growing. This month eleven bloggers linked up at least once, sometimes more than once. I now give you…

Last Months Slow Fashion Stylists from the 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup

Penny of Frugal Fashion Shopper -her IG is frugalfashionshopper
Trina of Tipey Heelz-her IG is tipseyheelzblogger
Jacqui of Mummabstylish-her IG is mummabstylish
Jess of Elegantly Dressed and Stylish-her IG is elegantlydressedandstylish
Maggie of Thriftshop Fashionistablog – her IG is thriftshopfashionista/
Mary of The Pouting Pensioner -her IG is thepountingpensioner
Nicole of High Lattitude Style – her IG is highlatitudestyle/
Patti of Not Dead Yet Style-her IG is notdeadyetstyle
Jodie of http://www.jtouchofstyle.com – her IG is jtouchofstyle/
Michelle and her IG is seechele_styles

I would like to thank everyone who participated in last month’s linkup. To be in the collage, the link title or in the blog, you have to mention what was pre-loved (second hand), even if it’s a friend’s hat. I hope to see you at the November Linkup!

The link up button is now on every post that I publish to make it easy for you to link up.

That wraps it up for this week. Thank you for stopping by. I’ll may or may not have a post next week. We are taking off Tuesday for the Grand Canyon and I think that might get in the way. You are certainly welcome to leave a comment or two or three. I love to hear from you.

I link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

Husband Michael gets credit for the photos of me and does a bit of editing from time to time.

Again, thanks for stopping by. Take care……..

It’s time for the November 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup which stays open until November 30th.

Any post on a blog, Instagram, Facebook or the like can linkup to this style celebration. If you can copy and paste the URL in the Linky box, you are good to go!

If you have never participated in a linkup before, no fear. Go to Linkup 101 guide that is found on my 2^nd Loved 1^st Friday linkup page (also found at the top in the tab section).

Just click the frog below to link up and join the fun!

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Happy MeadowTree Halloween!

By the middle of last week, I knew there was no way that I was going to have a style blog post ready for Sunday. We were having a Fall Festival ‘Ween party this weekend at the farm. There was so much to do. Family come on Saturday and they don’t leave until late Sunday. If you come to the farm, well, you just sit and stay awhile.

We had fun. That’s really what this post is about today–reminiscent of my old Blogger blog The MeadowTree Journal when I wrote about art, gardening, cooking, pets, and sewing…not about fashion.

After some last minute house cleaning Saturday morning, I’m in the kitchen sipping a nice beverage and dangerously prepping toppings for pizzas to be served that afternoon.

Millie, our kitty cat Poodle for the day, hoping something falls her way.

My daughters always ask if there is going to be the Taco Dip Cat. Well, of course! But poor guy, he only lasts minutes. Michael grew an amazing selection of peppers this year and I really had fun creating the face.

I also put out homemade Sour Dough Crackers. I’m back making sour dough bread and finding other things to do with the sour dough starter. These crackers are full of dried herbs and the boys loved them. That was a good surprise.

Sophia staying calm, of course, while I am running around getting things together.

Grandsons still request Bloody Hand Punch (one of my favorites, too). This year I finally got the hands out without breaking one finger. Kudos, Grandma! The recipe I used made enough punch for a small reception. We will be drinking Bloody Hand punch for the next couple of weeks. It’s mainly raspberry/cranberry/pineapple juice so that’s not a bad deal.

This year, the girls and I decided to have an extra ingredient for our punch. (Eitor’s note: Hey! I didn’t know about this!) Cupcake Sparkling Red wine will likely be at our Christmas dinner too.

Well, I needed some real style for this post and it is supplied by Michelle, our older. She made her velvet asymmetrical top which I think its gorgeous. She needs to wear it more!

Four big pizzas with eight different toppings and this is all that’s left! They even ate up my Veggie Kitchen Sink combo: sautéd butternut squash, artichoke hearts, mushrooms, spinach and black olives. Three teenage boys might have something to do with that: two grandsons and a friend from Joplin. Here’s Harrison and friend Lonnie just sitting around, texting of course, while waiting for pizza.

Niko just chillin’.

Can you have style when out and about on a four wheeler? Grandson Harrison can! We make him wear a helmet. At first, I don’t think he was too keen, but he does look pretty cool. Now it’s just like putting on the seat belt.

My very small August Moon Halloween collection.

The night called for a bonfire to toast marshmallows and make S’mores. Our country fire-pit is an old tractor rim.

Captain Rachelle enjoying the warmth of the fire in her pirate hat. I want a pirate hat now.

The ravens have taken over my twisted Halloween tree!

Is that a mad scientist lab behind that door?

Sunday’s lunch was pumpkin and black bean soup with homemade sour dough bread.

My tribute to Miss Havisham from Charles Dickens’ Great Expectations.

The pièce de résistance, Michelle’s test tube and eyeball cake with ice cream in the middle.

Sunday didn’t go by without sports. But rather than football, it was the Mexico City Formula One race. They were rooting for Hamilton, but it wasn’t his day.

In the end, Victor Hugo was musing: “What is all the fuss for? If it’s not about me, it can’t be that important.”

If you are interested in making either the Taco Cat dip or the Pumpkin Black Bean soup, I made a page just for them HERE.

Thanks for stopping by for our family Halloween fun. Our Halloween party has been a tradition for about ten years. The only new thing this year was the raven lights for my twisted Halloween tree. I was good this year!

Let me know if you did anything special around Halloween. You are certainly welcome to leave a comment or two or three. I love to hear from you. I’ll have another blog bit next week.

I link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

It will be time for a the November 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup this Friday. October’s closes out tomorrow and I will start working on my new collage on Wednesday.

Again, thanks for stopping by. Take care……..

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Covered Perfectly’s Fit & Flair

The Fit and Flair has been one of Covered Perfectly’s most popular designs. Its princess style is flattering for many figures and the ice skating dress vibe is just cute.

When Pauline, the creator and creative drive behind Covered Perfectly, asked if I would be interested in doing another review, I was immediately attracted to her new interpretation of the Fit and Flair.

What do I love about this new addition of Covered Perfectly’s lineup? First, the new Fit and Flair comes in a lovely shade of purple. Red may be trending, but purple is sophisticated, even regal. I think it does your closet good to have a tad of purple.

openingff — Feeling very lady like, so go with the pearls and metallic silver. The necklace is Stella and Dot, Tory Burch’s Reva flats and a vintage Koret leather bag.

Secondly, I really love the V-neck. This new neckline makes the design more fluid and is just a bit warmer to wear in the fall. The V-neck works well with the longer necklaces that I keep collecting. My shorter chains seem to go just great too, which led to a bit of experimenting with putting long and short chains together.

Byrds — Just happenin’ to be in my purple flirty top while in Bryd’s Pecans, our local most wonderful coffee, soup, sandwich, and goodie shop in Adrian, MO.

Finally, the details of the design are just sweet: the nice length, wonderful drape, and generous width at the bottom. Only princess seaming will make that kind of look. You may be able to tell that I’m a big fan of princess seaming. This is the only top I have that I want to twirl in!

I’m average height (5’6”) so on me the Fit and Flair can also be worn as a tunic. This means I have an excuse to wear leggings. Leggings allow more options for the transitional seasons. Honestly, I think this top is a year round wardrobe staple.

As with all of Pauline’s Covered Perfectly’s tops, the Fit and Flair is made in America from micro model. Model is a long and strong reconstituted cellulose fiber from the beech tree. It is incredibly luxurious and silky smooth, shrink resistant, moisture wicking, and lightweight. All of Pauline’s tops are so soft and feel quite lovely against your skin.

Can you tell that I love my choice of the Fit and Flair? In addition to the color purple, it comes in black and royal blue. With sizes ranging from small to 1x, Pauline has made sure that women of most body types can wear this top. Covered Perfectly’s byline is, “When only perfect will do,” and my purple, swirly and flirty Fit and Flair is certainly all that.

withsophia — Sophia was really bugging me during this shoot, so here is an obligatory Poodle picture. Talking about clutches, Rebecca Minkoff’s *Leo* is one of my favorites. The girls seem to borrow them a lot so I am not the only Gardner woman who thinks this.

I am an affiliate blogger for Covered Perfectly which means my readers can get discounts for any garments of their choice online. MeadowTree Style readers get a 20% OFF on up to two items! Use the discount code MTS20 when you check out at Covered Perfectly. There are several styles to choose from, and the discount will apply up to two items. Or you may take advantage of the “Buy 2 get your 3rd FREE” special. This special applies to any combination of items store wide. Just add 3 items to your cart and the discount will be applied automatically. Only one of the discounts will work.

My other Covered Perfectly reviews are found HERE and HERE. If you want to look closer at the new Fit and Flair, your link is HERE. There are many great designs on Covered Perfectly online shop; to see everything just click HERE.

I do want you to know that this top was sent to me by Covered Perfectly for my honest opinion.

Thanks for stopping by. You are certainly welcome to leave a comment or two or three. I love to hear from you. I’ll have another blog bit next week.

I link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

Time for my usual link-up blurb!

It’s time for the October 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup which stays open until October 31st.

Any post on a blog, Instagram, Facebook or the like can linkup to this style celebration. If you can copy and paste the URL in the Linky box, you are good to go!

If you have never participated in a linkup before, no fear. Go to Linkup 101 guide that is found on my 2^nd Loved 1^st Friday linkup page (also found at the top in the tab section).

Just click the frog below to link up and join the fun!

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Munelle de Vie

In the past year, I have had the privilege of getting to know Munisa Ky, a young talented designer currently working in Kansas City. Although born in Dushanbe, Tajikistan and receiving her early education in both Tajik and Russian schools, Munisa’s true dream was to travel to the United States and become a respected designer (one reason could be that she was actually born on the 4^th of July). She is living that dream and now studying and working in Kansas City as a fashion designer.

I first wore my Munelle de Vie Zora jacket last spring to the Kansas City Symphony with a long sheath dress. I zipped it up a bit, wore the sleeves long and deflated. The rhinestones on the jacket’s band were answered with a rhinestone encrusted clutch by Donald J. Pliner.

Munisa designs with a since of elegance and knows the woman she wants to dress. She designs classic clothes with just a hint of whimsy. Her designs have a strong attitude and if you wear a Munelle de Vie, you will get noticed. I know from experience.

I’ve owned my silver diaphanous Zora jacket since last spring and have styled it a few different ways. The unique design of the sleeves can evolve into about three different looks–an aspect of this design I love. The addition of the large rhinestones adds whimsy detail to make the jacket very individualistic and makes it the stand out it is, which makes the wearer stand out too.

My Zora jacket this summer at a wedding. This time I pushed up the sleeves and took advantage of that lovely puffiness. I went for more silver with Badgley Mischka heeled sandals, a silver grey vintage Koret bag, a thrifted silver mess belt and a silver tones Stella and Dot necklace.

I asked Munisa earlier this summer, what the inspiration was going to be for her Fall ’17 collection. She mused, “The inspiration is of love and the opening of her heart. It is the story of naive innocence turned into enlightenment.”

The fall collection plays the purity of white against the passion and power of red. She created classic shapes with just a bit of whimsy and I love those glorious sleeves treatments. I thought it was a cohesive collection with pieces that could easily be mixed and that Munisa’s initial inspiration was realized.

mandrack — Getting a closer look with Munisa at her fall line after a runway show in September. I took my Zora jacket towards casual (or as casual as this piece can get) with a wide patent belt, a hand painted clutch by Carlos Falchi and, although you can’t see them, metallic silver flats.

I am attracted to the white belted coat and would love to see it with long black gloves. . Yes, it’s a bit snug on me. I am not exactly runway model sized!

A photo showing the collection a bit better which is graciously borrowed from Munelle di Vie’s Facebook page.

Who knows where life’s road will take Munisa. Kansas City is lucky to be graced with her presence momentarily but I know she would love to be located on the west coast to continue her career.

I wasn’t at the runway show solo, but had a great bunch of ladies to hang with and here we are!

AtNaras — ***Me, Beth, Jeanette and Lynn at Nara Japanese Sushi Grill. Japanese cuisine was needed before we headed over to the Vintage KC Runway show at the West Bottoms.***

Munelle di Vie is unique for me. Usually I discover a designer after they have been at their craft for a few years. I feel that this time around I discovered someone who is just getting started. It will be a great interest to see where she goes as she matures as a designer. I expect her to make it to a major fashion venue such as LA or NYC. I just might sit there smugly and say to myself: “Ha! I bought the first Munelle Di Vie.

Munelle di Vie Facebook page is HERE and that is the best way to get in touch, at the moment, with Munisa. Her online site is almost ready, but not quite in working order yet. If you follow Instagram, please follow her Instagram Posts.

That wraps it up for this week. I’ll have another blog bit next week. It’s looking to be a pretty busy weekend ahead. By the time this post will be published, I will have hit two shows for Kansas City Fashion Week. On Saturday both daughters are going to be with me so you know I am going to have a great time!

Thanks for stopping by. You are certainly welcome to leave a comment or two or three. I love to hear from you.

I link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

Time for my usual link-up blurb!

It’s time for the October 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup which stays open until October 31st.

Any post on a blog, Instagram, Facebook or the like can linkup to this style celebration. If you can copy and paste the URL in the Linky box, you are good to go!

If you have never participated in a linkup before, no fear. Go to Linkup 101 guide that is found on my 2^nd Loved 1^st Friday linkup page (also found at the top in the tab section).

Just click the frog below to link up and join the fun!

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For the Love of Vintage &2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup

Those who follow me on Instagram saw this photo pop up on my feed about three weeks ago. My good friend, Diana and I were up shopping in Kansas City for the day and one of our stops was Donna’s Dress Shop in Kansas City’s Westport area. It was love at first sight for me and this hat. I have no idea what style to call it or any idea how old it is. But it balanced out that round face of mine and I just knew styling it would be a snap.

Ha! It turned out a lot harder than I thought. We didn’t even take a picture of my first attempt which prompted Michael to call me Clin-teresa. And yes, it looked like I was going to hang them high with a fist full of dollars! Back to the drawing board I went, as they say.

I ended up pulling one of my favorite pieces of vintage: a jacket from the ’40’s. I think the ’40’s because of those incredible Joan Crawford shoulders. I lucked into this baby back in the early ’80’s when a local women’s group had a thrift shop. This jacket came in on a donation, I snapped it up, and even made a skirt for it. (Alas, I can no longer fit into the skirt but it is in my “think about it” pile for alternations).

I have a big hat, big shoulders and even bigger lapels working for me. This jacket hasn’t seen the light of day for years but maybe it is time to start wearing it again. I think that you can get away with a lot more when you pair things with jeans, which in this case are my faithful and much seen on here Madewells.

Am I seeing all this through rose-colored glasses? Does anyone think I am crazy?? (Oh well, he doesn’t count: he still loves me). I love this jacket though it screams very vintage. Usually, I try to keep vintage items to just one per outfit. I see have four. Oh well…I just like how this whole thing works.

I wish I could put a date on the jacket, but it doesn’t even have a label to give a clue. Its silhouette just seems to say ’40’s to me.

There’s a few accessories I should probably mention. My scarf is by Elaine Gold. Elaine Gold worked for Vera Neuman before branching out on her own. I’m fascinated by these two early pioneering female accessory designers and have been collecting their scarfs for a while.

My bag is vintage Rodo (eBAy) and my first Rodo. When I got it in my hands, I had no idea of the obsession that hit me when it came to vintage bags. I’m pretty sure the beauty and uniqueness of this particular one caused it.

The brown suede booties, by Söfft have been on here a lot during the colder seasons and again, I am wearing one of my Chi Chi NYC layering shells. Later, I am going to try something dark brown under the jacket because I think that would work really well too.

That sums up what I put together for this edition of my 2nd Loved 1st Friday. I just let my vintage love fly–plus I just really love this hat. Maybe, maybe I can find other ways to wear it…

Last Months Slow Fashion Stylists from the 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup

Starting from the top left and moving clockwise, here are this month’s featured slow fashion stylists. Please go and check out these ladies. I’ve linked their blogs and Instagram accounts.

Athena of Minerva’s Garden
Gail of Is This Mutton? – her IG is Gail.Hanlon
Jess of Elegantly Dressed and Stylish-her IG is elegantlydressedandstylish
Jodie of http://www.jtouchofstyle.com – her IG is jtouchofstyle/
Kate of Time Travel With Kate Kitsch – her IG is kateskitsch
Laurie of Vanity and Me – her IG is vanity_and_me
Maggie of Thrift Shop Fashionista – her IG is thriftshopfashionista
Mary of The Pouting Pensioner -her IG is thepountingpensioner
Nicole of High Lattitude Style – her IG is highlatitudestyle/
Sally of Spicy Philosophy
Trina of Tipey Heelz-her IG is tipseyheelzblogger

I would like to thank everyone who participated in last month’s linkup. To be in the collage, the link title or in the blog, you have to mention what was pre-loved (second hand), even if it’s a daughter’s piece of ribbon that was transformed into a choker. I hope to see you at the October Linkup!

The link up button is now on every post that I publish to make it easy for you to link up.

That wraps it up for this week. Thank you for stopping by. I’ll have another blog bit next week. You are certainly welcome to leave a comment or two or three. I love to hear from you.

I link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

Husband Michael gets credit for the photos of me and does a bit of editing from time to time.

Again, thanks for stopping by. Take care……..

Time for my usual link-up blurb!

It’s time for the October 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup which stays open until September 31st.

Any post on a blog, Instagram, Facebook or the like can linkup to this style celebration. If you can copy and paste the URL in the Linky box, you are good to go!

If you have never participated in a linkup before, no fear. Go to Linkup 101 guide that is found on my 2^nd Loved 1^st Friday linkup page (also found at the top in the tab section).

Just click the frog below to link up and join the fun!

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

The Essential Black T-Shirt

Today, I am talking about another closet essential. A while back, I did a post about the simple black dress and how important it is to one’s closet. The simple black T-shirt is not far behind. There are hundreds of T-shirt colors and designs (we all have a few). But the black T-shirt is essential. Because of its versatility, I don’t mind spending a bit more on one.

Of course, we have all thrown a T-shirt on with jeans and headed out somewhere. Today, I want to show other options. I think the crew nick t-shirt is less formal than the V-neck (which gets it’s own post) and decided to go that way for today’s two looks.

This T-shirt is a very soft cotton crew neck by Kim Rogers that I picked up at Goodwill earlier this summer. I liked the heavier quality, which means that it could be a stand alone for summer, but could be a layering piece when the transitional season hit.

Lucky me, the day I found the black T-shirt, I also spotted this light tweed top or dress. Whatever it is, I thought I could use it as a tunic with leggings when the weather got cooler. The top has elastic around the waist which is helps when I want to change the length.

My bag is by Ilzak Zenou and just makes me happy. I love his whimsical fashion-based illustrations, which appear too on his water bottles and lunch bags. One of the happiest thing one can do in life is also so simple: a walk with your dog. (Of course, my dog would be a poodle–but then sometimes a Black Lab comes along).

Did you notice that my necklace changed colors between the two photos? Besides looking like vintage ’50’s linoleum, it’s also red on one side and grey on the other. I’ve had this for years and got it from World’s Window in Kansas City’s Brookside area. If you are ever visiting Kansas City, don’t miss Brookside. You will have fun.

I carried the bag’s patent leather theme out with my BCBGeneration (which filed for bankruptcy this Spring) flats. They are patent black on the front half but have a blue and black reptile print on the back and straps. These are another one of those “had forever items” and I believe I got them from TJ Maxx.

My next idea is layering so I can shed pieces as it gets warm. I paired one of my favorite white shirts (another essential) with a pair of Talbots (thrifted) black and white mini checked pants. I just put my T-shirt on top and added one of my big black belts (got it years ago from Blue Fly). If it gets too hot, I would just leave the T-shirt and belt in the car, tie my vintage Perry Ellis silk scarf around my neck for color and be on my merry way.

My bag is Tom Thomas’s Spiral designs. Tom Thomas and son make their bags right here in the USA in Texas. They came to the Kansas City Plaza Art Fair a few years ago and I was really impressed with his designs. Many agreed with me. Tom and his son had to send my choice to me once they got back home. They were sold out of the ones they brought.

Do you recognize the quilt pattern on my scarf? I know this pattern as Grandmother’s Fan. Does anyone else know it by another name?

The Mahjong pieces on my Marc Fisher Sunny4 d’Orsay flats are by HeartWare’s Frilly Feet. These are held on by very strong magnets. HeartWare’s president and creative force, Marlo Thornton Demark was a buyer for a very exclusive store in Kansas City before she patented her original idea. I have quite a few sets of her ingenious invention. My Mahjong’s are a limited edition which she doesn’t show online. I wish she would because some of them are so unique and you could get a one of a kind design. Any of her designs make a plain pair of shoes so much more fun. The magnets don’t tear up your leather like those old ones “back in the day”.

I have a new app for my iPhone called Stylebook. Not only can I catalogue everything I own but I can create style layouts. I believe I paid $3.99 for it, probably a reasonably priced diversion. I can also share between my phone and iPad which means I have backup. Also, any style sets I make, I can email to my Gmail account and get it on my computer–which is handy if I want to use them in my posts (like today). The frame was added with Photoshop after I sent it to my computer.

While I was writing this, I had another idea for the knitted tunic. I tried it over black jeans and a white long sleeve T-shirt. I made it a lot shorter but you can do that when there is elastic in the waist. Also I put a belt under there, which you can’t see, just to help keep it where I want it. What do you think? It’s off subject, but I would wear this out and wanted to share it with you.

And while we are on the subject of T-shirts, I need to share this amazing work of art from Whitney Manney, another Kansas City designer. She is a street wear designer and there is very few of her designs I can wear, but her T-shirts are a different thing. She also sells on Society6 where you find her designs on tote bags, smart phone cases, ceramics, and a lot more.

That wraps it up for this week. Thanks for stopping by. I’ll have another blog bit next week. You are certainly welcome to leave a comment or two or three. I love to hear from you.

I link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

I am also linking this post up with the Common Threads Challenge. My pieces that I am using are:

a black T-shirt
tweed jumper
black flats
white shirt
black jean

I will be posting my outfits on Instagram.

Photography credit goes to Michael this week and being my editor-in-chief, he reads over my posts.

Again, thanks for stopping by. Take care……..

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My Hardest Working Transitional Piece

I’ve found the perfect summer/fall transitional piece — a black loose fitting Mango jumpsuit. It’s an accident that I even have this jumpsuit. Originally, I found it on Poshmark for my youngest daughter. But when it got here, I knew it was way too big for her. Thinking that I might alter it, I tried it on to get a better idea of its size. Just one look in the mirror and I immediately knew, she was never going to see this one! Back to Poshmark I went back, found another jumpsuit, ordered it and that one fit her perfectly.

I started wearing my Mango during the hot weather of August and now I find myself grabbing it for the cooler days of September. My jumpsuit is perfect for showing off belts and I am finding numerous ways for tops and jackets to work with it, including this 2nd Loved piece that I am first showing today.

This knitted kimono-inspired cardigan was sourced from Plato’s Closet. I’ve been curious about Plato’s Closet because Michelle, my oldest, has been finding a few incredible pieces. Before I left Joplin last time, I made a quick detour to check out their current selections. I was determined to find one piece that I was in love with and find it I did!

It’s by Flying Tomato (couldn’t really find them on the web). I just feel very at home in this wrap because it is eye-catching, yet very classical. The large flat layers of this design allow for a striking visual pattern.

I finished the look with my wide White House Black Market reptile printed belt, a pair of Nine West patent leather nude heels, and a black multi-chain necklace that I picked up a Tuesday Morning some time ago.

My cream crocodile clutch is by Eileen Kramer. This bag has been in my collection about three years and it should have a removable strap, which I guess got removed permanently. I’ve always used it as a clutch and have never been inclined to get a chain for it (although purse chains of all styles and sizes are easily found these days).

I had quite a bit of fun with this second look. Originally, I had a much dressier version planned but decided to go in a very different direction. It hasn’t missed my notice that quite a few jean jackets have been paired with dresses in the fashion blog-sphere for quite a while. Instead of the traditional blue denim, I went with an INC International Concepts cream denim jacket that I picked up at a West Palm Beach Macy’s back around 2005. This jacket has been one of my favorites over the years.

I don’t know how you feel about pairing black and brown. I like to as long as I feel the total look is balanced. In this case, I’ve used cream, tan and plaid elements to tie everything together.

The ostrich printed bag is by Nanette Lapour. I pulled out my Epoch plaid Trilby hat and thought my newly Poshmarked Sam Edelman plaid flats blended perfectly. I didn’t want jewelry and instead went with a vintage multi fall printed Bill Blass vintage scarf and to be quite honest, I can’t remember where I got the belt. You can see a little bit below how wide it is. I think this is going to be my season for big belts.

I’ve been looking for plaid flats for a while and finally, last week, these Sam Edelman’s showed up on Poshmark.

You will never see the jumpsuit’s spaghetti straps because I am pretty sure that I will always wear some type of top with it. There is also an inset band detail that I wanted to show. But one of the most important features is the side zipper because that makes going to the bathroom a zip (yes, pun intended). I remember making a jumpsuit in the late 70’s with all these buttons going down the front and think I wore that thing once and you can probably can figure out why!

My Mango has already been on Instagram a couple of times this August. I wore it for a Women’s Equality Week event and you can click HERE to read about how I styled it (and to find out about the piano behind me).

I first wore it to a family wedding and you can click HERE to find out more, especially the lovely jacket and who designed it.

When I first tried on the jumpsuit about a month ago, I had no inkling how important of a piece it would become. I’ve found that I have to put on the brakes to stop myself from using it too much! Have anyone else ever been surprised about a garment this way; something that you thought was going to be insignificant, but turned out to be a big player?

Is anyone else warming up to the new jumpsuits?

That wraps it up for this week. I’ll have another blog bit in a couple of weeks. Once in a while, I just need a little break to get some things done and things are piling up. I love to hear from you, so you are certainly welcome to leave a comment or two or three!

I link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

Husband Michael gets credit for the most of the photos of me. Daughter Rachelle gets credit for the Women’s Equality Week photo taken at the Kansas City Jazz Museum. Michael also does some editing.

Thanks for stopping by. Take care!

Time for my usual link-up blurb!

It’s time for the September 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup, which stays open until September 30th.

Any post on a blog, Instagram, Facebook or the like can linkup to this style celebration. If you can copy and paste the URL in the Linky box, you are good to go!

If you have never participated in a linkup before, no fear. Go to Linkup 101 guide that is found on my 2^nd Loved 1^st Friday linkup page (also found at the top in the tab section).

Just click the frog below to link up and join the fun!

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Artful Creations

I’ve made a few pieces of jewelry. When I find some beads I like, I string them together. Of course, I know about jump rings, crimp beads and own a few tools. So I guess I’m a stringer, not a true jewelry designer–which is why I really respect the creative ladies behind Kansas City’s Artful Creations.

realopening — If interested in the outfit I picked for this event, go HERE.

Randi and Debby have been friends and business partners for ten years. They first collaborated when Randi owned a bead store in Kansas. Both designed jewelry pieces and shared in the teaching of jewelry construction classes. The bead store has since closed but they moved on to their new adventure: Artful Creations.

Randi and Debby creatively work with semiprecious stones, found vintage components, and unique beads from around the world. Their inspirations come from pieces they hand pick. The women who wear their designs appreciate unique handcrafted pieces–pieces that tell a story.

thegroup — Fashion Group International supporting fellow designers and members. From let to right: Barbara Fishman, Randi Richman Berger of Artful Creatives, Debby Schlotzman of Artful Creatives, me and Lynn Schultz-photo by FGI

Artful Creations also rescues family heirlooms. They will take an older beaded piece and redesign it to reflect the current owner, or divide it for members of the next generation. That is telling a story!

Having done some designing myself (fiber pieces), I am always interested in the creative process and asked both Randi and Debby about theirs. Randi, with and art education background, likes to draw her designs out first. Debby, a mechanical engineer, tends to lay all her elements out and visualize what she wants to create. The two process combinations work. Their jewelry is gorgeous.

DebiHelping — **Debby helping a younger fashionista to make a choice**

Beading Parties

A year ago, Debby and Randi had which has proven to be a great idea: “We bring the beading party to you!”

At an Artful Creations’ beading party, friends and neighbors may gather for a casual, fun evening of socializing while learning how to design and put together a necklace or bracelet. The host for the beading party may provide food and beverages for everyone to enjoy.

Randi and Debby provide a beautiful selection of semi-precious stones, pearls, crystal and glass beads to choose from. And Randi and Debby provide knowledgeable instruction in designing and executing the jewelry.

Artful Creations beading parties are a great idea for fundraising. Artful Creations will give a percentage of proceeds to a host’s designated charity. A fundraising idea might be an auction of jewelry once finished with the money raised going to the charity of choice. Another option is that the host may charge a little above cost per person and donate that toward their cause.

The minimum needed for a party are five guests for a fee of $150 and $30 for each additional guest. For parties exceeding 30 guests, a $50 fee is needed for an additional instructor. If you are interested, please contact Artful Creations at artfulcreationskc@gmail.com

Future Plans

At this point, the only way to purchase Artful Creations jewelry is to catch Randi and Debby at a show like I did earlier this summer. They would like to change this model and add a online website.

However, they do have a Facebook page to make it easier for customers to connect with them FOUND HERE.

19420623_10155474023997560_520917882042856790_n — **Photo by Fashion Group International-Kansas City**

Next on Artful Creations’ Calendar

Artful Creations will be at the Kansas City Jewish Culture Festival 2017 this Sunday, September 10th. This twenty-year old tradition is being held at 5801 W 115th Street, Overland Park, KS 66211. I’ve provided a link Kansas City Jewish Culture Festival 2017. I’ve been before and am going to try and make this one. Debby also creates Judaic items and I am looking forward to checking them out.

judaica — **Some of Debby’s polymer Mezzuzahs-photo by Debby Schlotzman**

Again, a few ways to reach Randi and Debby of Artful Creations:

Artful Creations Facebook page HERE.

Artful Creations Email: artfulcreationskc@gmail.com

Also, a friend of mine Debbie Dubinsky, is also showing her work at the Jewish Cultural Festival. If you are in the Kansas City area, don’t forget to stop by her booth. Knowing Debby, she will have some very yummy yarn that she has designed along with other fiber works.

DebbieCollagr — **Work of Debbie Dubinsky**

That wraps it up for this week. Thank you for stopping by. I’ll have another blog bit next week. You are certainly welcome to leave a comment or two or three. I love to hear from you.

I link up with some great blogs every week. To see who they are go HERE.

Except where noted, I took the photos for today’s post.

Again, thanks for stopping by. Take care……..

Time for my usual link-up blurb!

It’s time for the August 2nd Loved 1st Friday Linkup which stays open until September 30th.

Any post on a blog, Instagram, Facebook or the like can linkup to this style celebration. If you can copy and paste the URL in the Linky box, you are good to go!

If you have never participated in a linkup before, no fear. Go to Linkup 101 guide that is found on my 2^nd Loved 1^st Friday linkup page (also found at the top in the tab section).

Just click the frog below to link up and join the fun!

Follow my blog with Bloglovin