Saturday Inspiration: A Problem Worth Having

Yesterday was a much-needed time for solitude and introspection. After many consecutive days of appointments and obligations, I cleared my schedule as a day-long retreat from the world. A day that included many cups of tea, many pages written in my journal, and a leisurely solo grocery trip taken at a relaxed pace that allowed me to savor the process of choosing nourishing and wholesome foods for the weekend. Aside from my interactions with the grocery store clerk, I did not speak to another human soul (the dog doesn't count) until greeting my husband upon his return from work. The space and time I created to turn my focus toward my own heart - to hear my own voice amidst the chaos of the outside world - was so restorative. As with yin yang yoga (a stye that tempers active, warming yang poses with passive, cooling yin poses), I felt so beautifully balanced by the yin-paced day at the end of a decidedly yang week.

Today. Waking early, but staying in bed for some doggie and husband cuddling time. Freshly made coffee with coconut milk, scrambled eggs with arugula and herbs. Smiling at the memory of last night's phone call with a best friend across the country, a conversation filled with laughter and plans for the future, spoken in that special shared language of a friendship that has withstood many years and miles. Feeling my energy revived and creativity renewed by yesterday's inner journey. Pulling up my new MacBook Air to engage in some delicious new projects, chief among them a business plan that speaks to a newly discovered career goal.

Perhaps it's the second cup of coffee (a weekend indulgence) or the crispness in the air, but I am feeling so alive and alert. Every fiber of my being is so eager to soak in new possibilities for doing and being.

I have been meditating a lot on something I heard said recently. I'm sure I'm not quoting verbatim, but it was along the lines of this:

"For most of us, the problem is not that we have problems. It's that our problems aren't big enough or worthy enough of our time and energy. If your problems in life are things like an ornery boss or a forgotten utility bill that's now doubled in size or the number of emails in your inbox, look carefully at what you're devoting your life to fixing. Are these the problems worth your life? No. Get a problem that's worth your life. Get a bigger problem."

The idea of getting a bigger problem - one devoting your life to - is sort of an interesting proposition, isn't it? What would be worth devoting your life to? This is the question I'm inspired by as I create new possibilities and new directions for myself this morning. The resistance is there of course. The voice that questions where I would find the time, the money, the resources, and the knowledge, to accomplish such lofty goals. Those, however, are small problems compared to, say, the problem of making the world a healthier, happier place to live. Or teaching people the power of goal-setting to change their lives. Or enabling a more sustainable and innovative private sector.

Take a second and ask yourself. What would be a problem worth having? Worth devoting your life to? What's the bigger purpose you're unable to see or hear through the noise and dust of the smaller problems in your life?

xox


Image via Valorie

"The way you move is the way you live."

This morning:

Waking slowly to a misty, overcast sky.  
A warming bowl of organic rolled oats with a drizzle of agave and maple almond butter stirred in.
A mug of green tea (my current favorite, genmaicha, sweet with the flavor of roasted brown rice).
Planning the week's menu, highlighted by a wholesome, soul-comforting autumn-themed meal of herbed quinoa, red cabbage slaw, and apple-ginger crisp.
Nearly two hours of heart-opening vinyasa flow.
The way you move is the way you live, the instructor says.  Do you fling your limbs wildly through your practice, hurdling ahead to whatever's next?  Or do you move your limbs with intention, taking time to enjoy the sensation of movement itself?
Post-savasana, stepping outside to find the fog has dissipated, replaced by a bright and clear sky.
Taking the dog for a long walk, and noticing how she pauses to savor the breeze against her face and how she takes in the sights and smells that we humans bypass without a thought.
Settling into a hot bath, the steaming water scented with clary sage and lavender.  Skipping the usual reading during the bath routine, and instead, taking time to just breathe the fragrant air.

The way you move is the way you live.  My intention for today is to move mindfully, to live on purpose.

Thank you and a question

Thank you, all, for your incredible response to the news I shared earlier this week.  I was overwhelmed with gratitude for all of your support and well wishes!  It is especially encouraging to hear from those of you who have made changes of a similar magnitude in your own lives, and are now happily living your bliss.

While I'm excited to be following my passion, I must admit I'm a little bit nervous about diving headfirst into the unknown.  However, when I think back on times in my past that I've stepped outside of my comfort zone, I see that it is these periods of transition and uncertainty that catalyzed real growth, and with that in mind, I'm eager to engage fully in what will surely be an interesting, probably challenging, yet also exhilarating year.

This weekend's plans are focused on getting a few logistical things in order, including cleaning up our office and equipping it for my school and business needs, and shopping for a new car (though Jason and I have been happily sharing a car since we moved in together, it looks like our newly divergent schedules will necessitate a second vehicle).  I'm hoping to squeeze in a run, a hot vinyasa flow class, and an outing to the dog park.

You readers are always such a great source of information, so I'm wondering if I can pick your brain for a minute.  I hinted that I foresee some changes in store for Tulips & Tea.  Have you ever re-launched/re-branded your blog?  If so, what difficulties did you face, if any?  Any tips, tricks, and resources would be much appreciated!

Have a wonderful weekend! xo

Making space

Empty your hands and your heart. Regularly.

Take deep breaths. Often.

And move stuff over and out.

Make space (what a creative act! space-making!)

The space is full of what you really need.

-Via the ever wise Danielle LaPorte of White Hot Truth.


Image via Houzz.

On being alone

It is only when we silent the blaring sounds of our daily existence that we can finally hear the whispers of truth that life reveals to us, as it stands knocking on the doorsteps of our hearts. -K.T. Jong

Lately, I've been haunting a particular coffee shop in the morning before heading to work.  I like to sit at one of the small wooden tables and order a soy latte or an organic chamomile tea.  The latter arrives in a fancy silver teapot with a ceramic teacup the color of ivory.  Some days, I'll sip my tea and use the time to write in my journal, or read a book.  Other days, I jot down goals, to-dos, or a grocery list.  Occasionally, I will simply allow the teacup to warm my hands while I visualize my intentions for the coming day, week, or year.

I've come to treasure these moments of solitude between the commute and the beginning of my workday.  I don't stay for long - usually 25 minutes or so - and yet, it feels like a luxury amidst the hustle and bustle of the morning routine.  These little ellipses between commitments leave me refreshed and re-connected to my self, inspired to embrace the day with purpose and creativity.

Life can feel so crowded sometimes, can't it?  The "blaring sounds of our daily existence" seem to follow wherever we go.  Emails to write, phone calls to return, blogs, tweets, and TV to catch up on.  Traffic reports, weather forecasts, and a never-ending influx of mostly unhappy news to digest.  As much as I love these modern technologies, I find it critical to unplug.  To be alone, with only my thoughts for company.

I've been recognizing the importance of solitude more and more lately, and I think that's one of the reasons I love this video so much.  I've watched it several times now, and each time, my soul seems to nod in agreement with Tanya's words.  I know the video's been floating all over the interwebs the past couple of days, but it seemed worth re-posting here, in case anyone hadn't yet seen it.

How do you carve out moments of solitude during your day?  What do you do when you're alone? 

Style Statement: Organic Creative

Do you all remember when I blogged about Style Statement by Carrie McCarthy and Danielle LaPorte?  Back in January, I started the book with tons of enthusiasm, racing through the self-discovery exercises with the eagerness of a golden retriever puppy.  Then what happened?  Well, I got a little bit stuck on my second word, and promptly forgot about the whole thing.  That is, until last week when Project Clean and Serene Home kicked into high gear (more on that later) and I came across Style Statement while sorting through the stacks of books threatening to overtake the office Jason and I share.

For anyone who's a bit lost right now (and don't worry - I might've even lost myself there), a style statement is a two-word compass that defines who you are and how you express your authentic self to the world.  The first word represents your foundation, your 80%. The second word, your 20%, is your growth edge and motivator. As Carrie notes on her website, some people have likened a style statement to a "personal brand" or a "creative thumbprint."  Once you have defined your style statement, it can help you to make more authentic choices about almost every element of your life. This concept extends far beyond what we might typically think of as style (fashion and other aesthetic expressions) to encompass decisions about career choices, relationships, how we spend our time, and how we express our unique selves to the world.

So, after a six-month hiatus, I've been revisiting my style statement quest with renewed energy throughout this past week.  I figured out during the first go-round that my foundation word is "Organic."

(via the Style Statement book)

Organic: 
Organics are a divine dichotomy: practical but spontaneous, structured but flowing. The disposition of an Organic is like that of bamboo—light, incredibly strong, growing freely and prolifically. Organics are mindful of the connections between parts, whether in relationships, systems, or physical things. They keenly sense what’s going on (never miss a thing!) They are commonsensical, practical, and organized and adore systems and solutions that simplify or create ease and efficiency. Look & Feel: Organic’s aesthetic is based on sensuality, quality, and construction—whether structured or flowing, shape is important. Timeless or simplistic styles and handcrafted, socially responsible, or eco-friendly materials. Layered aromas, rich textures, enduring and natural fabrics and substances; hearty and sturdy; never static, always changing; free from manufacturing, overprocessing, and chemicals.

The second word - as I mentioned - was more of a challenge.  The second word should not only describe you, but inspire you to grow and possibly even push beyond your comfort zone.  I considered the following:

Grace
Harmony
Cultivation
Balance
Serenity

Yet, I didn't feel that any of these gave me the push, or, as I call it, the "oomph" that the second word should.  But then, this past week, it hit me.  Of course.  It was right there all along, just daring me to claim it (which makes total and perfect sense because I am constantly challenged to honor this aspect of myself to its fullest extent).

(via the Style Statement book)
Creative: Aesthetic, artistic, clever, crafty, cultivated, cultured, elegant, exquisite, fertile, formative, gifted, graceful, harmonious, hip, ideal, imaginative, ingenious, innovative, inspired, inventive, musical, original, ornamental, pictorial, picturesque, pleasing, poetic, productive, sensitive, skillful, stimulating, stylish, talented, tasteful, visionary.

So, there you have it!  I'm Organic Creative.  Nice to meet you!  Have any of you discovered your style statement?  If so, I'd love to hear it!

Tomorrow, I'll share some of the exercises that helped me to uncover my style statement and some of the ways that Organic Creative shows up in my life.

xo,

Things that are making me happy these days

Good afternoon lovelies!  How was your weekend?  It's been a little while since my last happy list, and I thought it was high time for another.  Here are some things - large and small - that have been making me happy in recent days.

• Recommitting to yoga.  Throughout this past year, my yoga practice has, unfortunately, taken a backseat to other activities and obligations.  With good intentions, I began a home practice but found it difficult to stay as disciplined and motivated as I was when I was taking classes at a studio.  So, this past weekend I joined a wonderful little studio near our home and renewed my commitment to yoga with a beautifully flowing vinyasa class.  It felt so amazing to return to the mat, stretching myself (physically and mentally) in ways that I haven't for a long time.  I felt a wave of openness and possibility wash over my heart...
• Getting married less in less than three weeks!  (Thank you all so much for your sweet comments on last week's wedding-themed posts.)
• Blooming periwinkle hydrangea plants.  Basil growing on our porch.  Tossing a Frisbee at the park.  Glowing pink and purple sunsets over the South River.  Long sunny days.  Juice from Wonji Juice Bar (current favorite is a blend of carrot + cucumber + apple +olive oil + basil + rose oil).  The gorgeously photographed Edible: A Celebration of Local Foods.  Exploring new and exciting opportunities.  Happy endorphins after an amazing workout.  Delicious dairy-free coconut milk ice cream (so decadent!).  Girls' nights.  Planning an action-packed whitewater rafting camping foray with good friends for later this summer.  Iced chai with almond milk.  My new Manduka Equa yoga towel.  Rereading The Red Book by the super inspiring Sera Beak.  Learning Italian phrases for our honeymoon.  Discovering my Style Statement (will share soon!).  Scheduling deep tissue massages with my favorite masseuse (have decided to invest in my well-being by making this a semi-regular indulgence).  Greening my work surroundings with plants.  Making my own salad dressing (currently obsessed with a mixture of tamari + toasted sesame oil + brown rice vinegar + minced shallot + fresh ginger which I drizzle over salads, veggies, tofu, etc.).  Good friends, old and new.  Champagne mangoes (.  Hand-crafted terrariums (how cool are these?!).  Dreaming of adopting a shelter dog (hopefully turning this into a reality in the not-too-distant future).  Taking the scenic route.  Good conversation.  Perusing local art exhibitions (can't wait to see the Yves Klein retrospective at the Hirshhorn).  Getting back into the groove with Artist Dates.  Mellow tunes (Bon Iver, The National, and Okkervil River are getting lots of playtime on my iPod these days).  Chunky turquoise jewelry.  Reading this blog.  And of course, all of you!

Your turn!  What are you loving right now?

xo,


Image via Planet Green.

Blogger with Heart: Robyn Michelle-Lee

Hello lovelies,

Remember the Bloggers with Heart series I began some months ago?  I must confess - I've been feeling terribly guilty about allowing it to lapse into oblivion.  I suppose I could make some excuse about being too busy, planning the wedding, blah, blah, blah.  But I kind of hate excuses like that, and you wanna know why?  It's because I believe that, consciously or subconsciously, we make time for the things that are important to us. 

And so the truth is this:  These past four or five months have been a time of intense growth for me.  I haven't really shared very much of this here (aside from the changes I've been making on a physical level), but I've had some really significant realizations about what I want in life and, as a result, my journey toward personal fulfillment is taking some unexpected and exciting turns.

What does this have to do with Bloggers with Heart?  While I've kept up a fairly regular schedule of posting here, my thoughts have often been elsewhere, musing about things on which I'm not quite ready to elaborate.  Blogging has, quite frankly, moved down a rung or two in my life's priorities.  I've taken some much-needed time and space to retreat a bit - to move into my own head and heart and to build up my internal reserve.  As the incomparable Julie Cameron writes in The Artist's Way, it's difficult - almost impossible - to simultaneously honor our own creative energy while entwined in the creative lives of others, as inspiring as they may be.  I've taken a purposeful step back from my interactions with others, both online and off, and I've found that my own voice - my authentic wants and needs - is more clear to me when it's not competing with so much "background noise."

Yesterday I was delighted to hear from one of the bloggers I'd originally wanted to feature as a Blogger with Heart.  I felt that her words were coming to me afresh, reaching me at a different place than they would've just a few months ago when I was feeling overwhelmed by the enormous variety of creative possibility in this world.  Having had a bit of distance from it all, I'm feeling inspired in a new way, and I'm suddenly recognizing kindred creative spirits everywhere.

The aforementioned blogger is most definitely one such spirit.  Since first reading her guest posts on Tranquility du Jour and subsequently finding her beautiful blog, I have continually been enamored with her lush descriptions of life's simple pleasures.  In fact, I believe her beautiful lifestyle - good food, an appreciation of beauty in the natural world, and a focus on friends and family - is partially what prompted my own introspection as to what I want my life to look like and how I'll make it happen.

Without further ado, I am excited to present this week's Blogger with Heart: Robyn Michelle-Lee of This is Life.  

Friday inspirations

This novel approach to a wedding registry. Such a fresh and beautiful alternative to the typical registry.

Pretty, food-inspired artwork like these works by Eva Juliet.

This bride's soft and casual, yet elegant look. I'm hoping to emulate her hair and jewelry for my own upcoming wedding...

The colorful abundance of fresh flowers showing up at our local Whole Foods.  Tulips, hydrangeas, and peonies, oh my!  I want them all.

A yoga manifesto (via this very interesting NY Times article)

Anthropologie's destination-inspired prints

Brightly-colored salads, perfect for warm weather weekend lunches: cabbage and lime salad, carrot almond salad, potato salad with watercress, cucumber, and radish

This beautifully written post, which moved me to tears but left me with a feeling of intense, life-affirming joy.  

Tell me lovelies...what's inspiring you today?  What beautiful plans do you have for the weekend?

Images via Cheri et David/Eva Juliet/Love and Lavender/Concrete & Honey/Yoga to the People/Anthropologie/La Tartine Gourmande/Gluten-Free Girl

xo,

The NEO-traditionalist Manifesto

I recently stumbled upon the loveliest blog. The NEO-traditionalist is penned by Kate, whose interests include "reading biographies, scouring rummage sales, listening to NPR's This American Life, eating banana cupcakes, quoting Diana Vreeland, and dreaming up whimsical names for her future children." Clearly, we were meant to be best friends, don't you think?

I totally swooned over her Neo-traditionalist Manifesto, which Kate kindly gave me permission to share with you all.

We believe...

We believe in being glass-half-full sorts of girls.

We believe that often times, granny is chic.

We believe in peddling vintage Schwinns with flower baskets.

We believe in poetry, picnics, and piñatas.

We believe one is never too old to keep a diary, the secrets only grow more scandalous.

We believe in arranging fresh flowers unruly like an English garden.

We believe in adventure and traveling the globe, be it to Marrakech or Malibu.

We believe in mixing lucite with oriental rugs. Thrift store finds with heirlooms.

We believe in handwritten thank you notes, better late than never.

We believe in needlepoint, letterpress, decoupage and forgiving Martha Stewart.

We believe in piggy banks and cookie jars.

We believe in book clubs full of Fitzgerald, Hemingway, Austen and Woolf.

We believe station wagons are hopelessly chic.

We believe in recycling our Grandmothers’ names. Eloise, Jackie, Faye…

We believe in collecting: stamps, shells, books, big glittering diamonds…

We believe in marrying the boy that writes us the best love letters.

We believe in highly competitive board games—Chess, Scrabble, Chutes & Ladders.

We believe in spontaneous road trips and charming, chintzy bed & breakfasts.

We believe there’s something to fortune cookies, wishbones and 4 leaf clovers.

We believe in classics, shaken and stirred.

Love, love, love. Definitely hop on over and check out Kate's blog and her adorable vintage Etsy shop!

Image via Kate's Etsy shop.

CHANEL N°5 film

With the not-so-lovely weather that has set it sights on the DC area today, I'm taking refuge in my warmest sweater, lots of hot tea, and little bits of beauty. I know this was released awhile ago, but I just recently saw it for the first time and it so completely affirmed my love for Audrey Tautou that I just had to share it with you all. It was shot by French Director Jean-Pierre Jeunet who actually directed Audrey in the 'Amelie' (one of my all-time favorite films). So beautiful and romantic, n'est-ce pas?

And, one of my favorite photos of the lovely Audrey...just because.

Image via Vi.sualize.us (original source unknown).

Blogger with Heart: Stephanie of Heart-Piercing Life

For any new readers,Bloggers with Heart is a series of interviews with bloggers whose voices resonate with authenticity, sparkle, and soul. You can read past interviews here.

I am so excited to share this Blogger with Heart interview with y'all. It was only in the past few months that I "met" Stephanie, who blogs over at Heart-Piercing Life. Yet through her blog and twitter, I have quickly come to feel that I've known her for years. Her musings on creativity, personal growth, and wellness constantly inspire me to push myself in these areas. And, if you know Stephanie, you'll know what I mean when I say this girl simply radiates warmth. Her big heart and generous spirit just leap right off the screen. Plus, she's got talent in spades - check out her lovely Etsy shop, Heart-Piercing Cards. Sunny personality, serious crafting skills, killer hair...and did I mention killer hair? I know you'll agree that Stephanie is a total gem and a true Blogger with Heart. (I'm especially loving her answer to question 13...yup, pretty sure that's my new life mantra!)

1. Why do you blog?

The combination of personal pleasure and shared expression keeps me writing. Though I must say, I started off blogging for one reason (myself) and it has gently evolved into something more. While I may be a blogger with heart, thankyouverymuchanaliese, I am really just your everyday person. My hair is just probably a bit bigger than yours.

2. How do you come up with ideas for posts?

Bus rides. Long days. Sunshine. Bicycles. Everything I do and touch and see and smell inspires me. (I seriously have animal senses!) I try to keep my blog deep, inspiring, and relevant. Most of my blog posts are written as a way to archive my days. Whether it be an event, a remarkable meal, or an art project, I want to use my blog to capture the true essence of the experience. Ultimately, I aim to communicate my experiences authentically, but I do try and share what I share with a smile and whispers of love. We all need more love.

3. What does "Heart-Piercing Life" mean to you?

This is such a good question, because honestly, I have no record of what I was thinking when I conceived that name for my blog. However, after years of writing from the heart and making art from that central place, it just makes sense.

I sold my handmade paper goods, Heart Piercing Cards, at a craft fair over 4th of July weekend, and this young girl, maybe a 10 year old, was shopping with her grandmother. She was really hip. Her grandmother purchased a card and the girl looked me straight in the eyes and said: “I like your stuff. The Heart Piercing Cards. I get it.”

That really took me aback. If this ten year old girl could “get” living from your heart, from that sacred space deep within your chest, even when that means it isn’t all mountaintop experiences, and expressing that life with authenticity, than I could, too.

The mountains, the valleys, and celebrating every step; that’s what Heart Piercing Life is all about.

4. What is the best thing about blogging?

It’s a serious toss up between the outlet and the community. Recently, I have had the pleasure of meeting many inspiring women through blogging (and twitter)… That sense of an online community is new for me, AND I LOVE IT! However, I’ve just been blogging to blog for 2+ years (thankgodforarchives!), so that outlet piece is really important to me, too. I need somewhere to write about what is holding me and some way to send my thoughts out into the Universe.

5. What is the hardest part about blogging?

Finding the balance. Sometimes I really want to TELL ALL, or say what I really need to say. However, I also want to be perceived as a force for love & positivity…so telling all can be done in a way that builds you up or in a way that breaks you down. I choose UP.

I have always been a purveyor of this principal: what you do in the dark you should be able to speak about in the light. When shame builds force, it can be extremely dangerous. So I try to display my courage right alongside my questions. But that balance isn’t always easy to find.

6. What does the blogging community mean to you?

Shared wisdom. Hope notes. Support. Encouragement. Sisterhood. Borderless friendship. Serious inspiration. Gentle Reminders. Challenge. Artistic insight.

7. Your creative spirit and big heart are so apparent in your posts. How do you cultivate such a positive outlook on life?

In the recent past, I’ve been practicing positivity, but when I was a little girl, I was a firecracker for sure. My grandmother’s maiden name is Lala and I’d like to think I was spunky from the start. The creativity has been cultivated over many years. Confidence hasn’t been my strong suite as an adult, but I’m gaining some momentum these days…declaring my strengths and counting myself blessed to know my vulnerabilities. I lean towards sunshine, positivity & grace, because, um, what’s the alternative? Didn’t think so!

8. Which bloggers inspire you and why?

When I set out for inspiration, I end up at these fountains… I’m always reading:

* Brook at Inchmark: she pairs up creative ideas with real heart, and a solid love for her family & good design.

* kaileenelise: she is consistently posting some of the best content I read.

* sarah Ahearn’s blog: mixed media artist with a sweet, soft way.

* sophie blackall’s missed connections blog her illustrations are TO die for

* tea&tulips a lovely blog that assists in the discovery of small delights!

* elsa more’s style blog: the hidden seed her outfits make me want to be cuter & more daring fashion-wise.

* melita at gussying up the tuttle keeps me zen & in a peaceful place. i love that about her writing.

* Kristen gardner’s photography blog: her photography captures the essence of love & togetherness & wonder.

9. What else is inspiring you right now?

Holistic, responsible wellness; my boyfriend’s handsome, classic style; Austin, Texas; my gratitude journal; all things spring!

10. What advice would you give to someone just getting started as a blogger?

Don’t ever hesitate to express what you’re authentically experiencing. If you love food, write about it. If you love trees, tell us all you know. Hang on to your stories, tell them as honestly as you know how to, and applaud the people who, by sharing theirs, inspired you to do the same. That goes for new bloggers and the rest of us, too!

11. Five by five. Tell us your five favorite: books, movies, albums, foods, and simple pleasures in life.

Books: Fortunes (Jen Lee), I Thought It was Just Me (Bréne Brown, PhD), Pilgrim at Tinker Creek (Annie Dillard), Gilead (Marilynne Robinson) and Dream Work (Mary Oliver).

Movies: Tristan & Isolde; WALL-E; Persepolis; The Visitor; Elizabeth.

Albums: The Tallest Man on Earth; Regina Spektor; Vampire Weekend; The Be Good Tanyas; Iron & Wine (those are artists, not albums! sorry!)

Foods: Miche (a French country loaf); Kale; Coconut; Organic Apples; Salmon

Simple Pleasures: back-scratching, dark chocolate, fresh air, good jeans, bike riding.

12. If you had the opportunity to create "the perfect space" space for blogging and other creative pursuits, what would yours look like? (How would it be decorated, what objects would surround you, how would it sound, feel, smell, etc.?)

O-la-la, I am so craving a change of living space and have had PLENTY of time to dream about its details! I would have the perfect combination of art space and work space. I would upgrade to a MacBook Pro and my work space would be clutter free! My art space, while organized, would be granted the permission to be as cluttered as (temporarily) need be! Paul (my beau) always says: “You have to make a great mess to make greatness.”

The space would be naturally lit, with inspiring prints and soft turquoise painted walls. Antiqued wooden furniture with white and resin desk accessories. I would always have a Lucia soy candle burning, music playing, and a huge bottle of water nearby. Hot tea & dark chocolate, too!

13. In five words or less: what is the meaning of life?

Don’t hold back your gold.

Stephanie lives in Louisville, KY and works at the University. She is pursuing a career in wellness coaching, and makes fanciful handmade paper goods on the side. She is currently on a quest to live out her golden year.

Thanks, Stephanie, for sharing your thoughts with us! You rock!

Photo of Stephanie by Brooklyn-based photographer Victoria Wall.