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Goodbye 2014

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goodbye 2014 hello 2015

It`s new year`s eve, and it`s so quiet. It feels just like any other week night but still for people all around the globe this is the night of happy endings and new beginnings. Goodbye 2014 and hello 2015. It`s been quite a year. With happy and sad moments and any other year in any life I guess, but you were`nt that bad and depressing so, thanks for that. All that has happened or didn`t happen is on me, not you, you were here just... doing your job and being what time is... a mixture of moments and events, ever changing with occasional feelings of repetition. Panta rei as a famous greek would say and I couldn`t agree more. The moment is gone, but ever present in our hearts, memories, photographs and on internet. God bless internet. Goodbye 2014, you can scream and bit but I will be OK. 


Today I found so many inspiring words and quotes on social networks that people posted while they parted with 2014, and I would like to share some of them with you and write them here as a reminder for some future times.

" I keep turning over new leaves, and spoiling them, as I used to spoil my copybooks; and I make so many beginnings there never will be an end." - Louisa May Alcott

Turning over new leaves can happen in any given moment, when you are ready to do it. Mostly people have strong feelings about year ends and new beginnings so, turning a new leaf will be natural for most of us, staring a new journal, new habits and checking resolutions we listed to do when the clock turns 12. New years resolutions. Sometimes I find them silly, because I mostly don`t make them happen, and if you are trying to become a better self, you should do that any day and every day, and because you feel it not because a list told you so. But I do love to make lists.

goodbye 2014What resolutions made the list will be something I plan to share with you tomorrow when my hangover subsides and I regain basic functions as a human being. Just kidding, I`m too old for that shit. Here I go again, I`m on a roll. I really do sound like someones grandma. Sad. So sad.

Now seriously, I would love to hear about your resolutions, these always inspire me so please share them with me. Don`t be shy.
This is it, the final page of a book that was called 2014. I hope you had an amazing year, and if you didn`t that is OK too. The point is not to dwell in the past but look at the future and have just one important plan on your mind - enjoy the ride. And keep in mind this saying from Buddha:

What you think,
you become.

What you feel,
you attract.

What you imagine,
you create.

Have a lovely celebration of 2014 going away and 2015 arriving with nothing else but endless possibilities. Take a step and follow your heart.

Happy new year!

Xmas wishlist - what would I like to find under the tree?

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It is night before Christmas and I was thinking what if I could play a little game of wishing for some lovely little things and they would be right there packed and ready, waiting for me on (of course snowy) Christmas morning. What would I like to find under the Xmas tree? Here is my Xmas wishlist. I hope you are all having a lovely time with your loved ones and I wish you happy and merry holidays and the rest of the year.


xmas wishlist

These may seem unrelated altogether as an outfit but, most of them would find their way to one unique ensemble. I am sure of it. The dress will probably find its way to my closet sometime right after Christmas day (Boxing day hellooo), and the rest is a maybe baby but I would sure loved to see them wrapped up nicely under the tree.
Dress/Shoes/Earrings/Clutch/Glasses/Watch

 

 

Link Love

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link love december

Its almost end of the week and here are some interesting finds from the web. I always get amazed how infinite internet really is and how much information and knowledge one can gather from it. Sometimes I daydream that I am the investigator of internet and my job is to see and read (almost) everything there is to find on www. Something like Indiana Jones, but in cyber space. With or without the fedora. But since it is cold outside I`ll take the fedora.


I bet there is no one person in the world that hasn`t heard that positive attracts positive and like attracts like. What you wish and think is what you live. Here are some interesting words on the subject from the Braid creative.

Talking about reading and soaking it all up like a sponge, you can never learn enough as a blogger right? So here is one very important list for all the bloggers out there. A bunch of skill share classes for every type and person, and we all love to learn new skills and widen our repertoires, right?

Reading, researching, learning. But I bet there are times when even the best of us get railroaded by resistance. Jenny Purr has some great advice how to stop and be a successful creative. Stop wasting your time. It is your biggest treasure.

We all have our little daily rituals but what were ones from famous writers and creatives? Brain pickings picked my brain again. And she picked it good.

For some lovely inspiration and to feast your eyes and soul go see ALO. A little opulent "is an online lifestyle magazine for embracing creativity and our many passions and creative interests". Such pretty pictures and even more pretty words. I fell in love in a second.

If you need some free photos that are licensed and free to be altered and used without express permission of the owner, and you have`nt got your own, visit this site. It has an amazing selection of truly astonishing photography. But don`t forget to credit the artist. Thank you for providing me with a photo for this post.

Its that time of the year, when the days are getting numbered and we think about days passed and how we lived them more than any other time of the year. `tis the season for making resolutions for the year to come, to make plans and make the most of it out of the month left. Jenny offers some great tips what to do for your blog before 2015 shows up.

I wish you all a great weekend, maybe snowflakes and a lot of fun.

December to-do list

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december to do list

Hello December, here you are. The year is slowly coming to an end and here you are, cold and jolly making us remember that. You are the last month of the year and everyone is suggesting we should make it count. Do all the things possible to make it count. That only makes me wanna do endless to-do lists but never really do anything (because I am too busy making to-do lists of what should I do this December). So little time. But I will try to do my best. First of all to greet you properly I will do a December to-do list and see what I could do this month that will make it the month of 2014 to remember. and its been quite a year.


First of all for December I decided to have a project that is related to writing and making it a habit. I will discuss that in a separate post in a few days, but I just wanted to mention it as it is pretty much my priority this month, that will probably include lots of things that could be on a December to-do list too.

For investigative purposes I pinterested (I guess that is a word now, right?) some lists of things to do in December or that people do around and related to Holidays, and I can say, there is so much stuff and the Grinch in me is not particularly interested in them. I will try to make the list interesting tho.

So, lets begin!

1. Make paper snowflakes
I haven`t done this one in years. Decades to be precise. Like from middle school or kindergarten. There is no time like the present for some paper snowflakes. Need to google some patterns.

2. Do Christmas pancakes
I am not really sure what are those (but Google is my friend), but I do love pancakes so, this will be done for sure.

3. Find Christmas music
I LOVE Christmas songs. Maybe someone is thinking church related, no not those - sorry, but still, I am gonna blast my speakers like crazy with Wham, Mariah and all other cheezy sounds that I can find. Can`t wait for this one. I will repeat this on a regular basis.

4. Christmas photo shoot
This one won`t be easy but it sure will be lots of fun. Cats or no cats?

5. Decide on a new years resolution that is very important to me
I think this one will be the hardest one to keep. I suck on resolutions of any kind, but that is why posts like this one exist, right? And maybe I will make it this time. I just need to think this one through.

6. Learn how to knit
Or refresh your memory and knit something already.

7. Build a snowman
This one, I think is an forever will be my favorite. And I make it (almost) every year. I just hope snow will bless us with its presence

8. Take photos (try a photo a day)
And post weekly update. And I already have one for today. Some tree branches and gray, gloomy skies. Not so December jolly. Write a post with themes for each day. YAY.

9. Decorate our house ASAP!
What in the world am I waiting for? Holiday cheer and Xmas spirit are waiting to take over the house. I always think of HIMYM and their Xmas land :) I want that!

10. Write a letter to Santa
I don`t remember if I ever have done this, I think I did but I am not sure. I would need to check with Mom. My memories can be tricky at times. But I have a feeling I did this one. And doing it again as a grown up could be fun.

I think these 10 sound good. Baking gingerbread or making any kinds of biscuits and cookies is just not my thing and I don`t really like chocolate or sweets (pancake exception!) so... Watching Christmas movies makes me sad and teary but I am sure I will watch some of them.

Having nice family Christmas traditions sounds and seems nice in this crazy times when people are so estranged from each other. And I do miss all those little traditions and rituals we had with Mom and Dad when we were little. Kind of makes me want to have kids. ???? No. Rather to be a kid again. But, seriously, it would be nice to make some new traditions in our (new) house/family.

How do you spend your December? What are your Holiday traditions and what would you put on your December to-do list?
And are there some nice, easy non baking Xmas cookies for super lazy people? Send the recipes my way. I would be forever grateful :)

Have a lovely month darlings.

Love,

I.

DIY inspiration board

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DIY INSPIRATION BOARD

 Wednesday is here and my Pinterest feed is full of DIY inspirations. Although most of them is holiday related (I will leave this one for another post), I managed to find few interesting ones to share with you. Crafting, Sewing, Decorating... who does not love a good DIY project? Sometimes I just daydream of times where I could just quit my job and DIY all day long. And read. This DIY inspiration board contains ideas and objects that are not DIY per se but seem like something that could be done.

DYI inspiration fleece bag

DYI inspiration - black and white planter

DYI inspiration black leather (no)glove

DYI inspiration wall art

I think most of these are doable, I just need to decide which one to start first.


What is your oppinion on DYI? Are you passionate about doing something yourself, diving into craft and making it your own little project and piece of art?

1 2 3 4

Mary Katrantzou x Adidas Originals

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mary katrantzou x adidas originals

Mary Katrantzou has teamed up with adidas to present adidas Originals by Mary Katrantzou and they made a color vivid capsule collection that channels both Mary`s hyper-color and kaleidoscopic patterns, and both the spirit of well known adidas Originals. Famous adidas models  ZX 5000, Marathon TR, and Equipment Racer became a blank canvas for Mary, tabula rasa which she filled with string colors and patterns, floral prints and studs, both metal and gummy, added some glitter soles and made this collection interesting for a wide audience.


mary katrantzou x adidas originals mary katrantzou x adidas originals mary katrantzou x adidas originals mary katrantzou x adidas originals mary katrantzou x adidas originals

I could have them all. These are not something I would usually pick, but I like how she let herself play with design like a little girl. And I like what she did, how she transferred her vision and essence to the product. But one must remember, these shoes are made for walking on the runway, not for the gym. Although, I`d wear them there to. And to the office, if only I could.

Alongside with "running" shoes, Mary Katrantzou x Adidas Originals collaboration also offers us a range of interesting apparel pieces. Dresses and sweatshirts, tights and skirts.

mary katrantzou x adidas originals mary katrantzou x adidas originals

I have always been a huge adidas fan and each time they have new collaborations I get all excited, like a kid in a candy store. My all time favorite was with Stella McCartney, and I would have bought everything. Collaboration or no collaboration my love for adidas is eternal. They can never go wrong. My only "advice", more of a request, would be, please make that green Originals zipper sweatshirt jacket that you do in men`s size  - make it in women`s size xs too. Pretty please. I tried the men`s xs, with all the maybe-s on my mind, but it was too big for me. Please!

I feel like a pokemon fan - gotta have them all!

You like? Which collaboration with adidas would you like to see next?

On page SEO guide

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on page seo


How to make your posts more interesting to search engines? These are simple SEO rules that can help you rank your posts better. Although SEO science can seem a bit intimidating at times, I promise these 11 tips are easy to understand and implement quickly and efficiently. On page SEO is not quantum physics anymore. It used to drive me mad but as time goes by, as I do my research and learn a lot about SEO I can say that this has totally been demystified.

Although sometimes the world seems to be living by that famous idea from Heraclitus - Panta rhei, some things still remain the same. Yes, SEO is changing with each passing year and Google really keeps up with making our job of ranking good in search more difficult with each new SEO tip. But worry not, for now the most important elements of good SEO have remained the same. Being a good writer is still very important because no amount of SEO craftsmanship can`t substitute bad writing.

  1. Friendly permalink URLs


Avoid ugly un-customised URLs. Use your URL to say to search engine what are you talking about. First 3.5 words in a URL are the most important. Says the Google.

  1. Title with kyword


Title tag is THE most important element when it comes to on page SEO. Pages with their key word in the title ranked better than those that had the key word somewhere in the middle.

  1. Multimedia


It is important to have great, compelling content that tells the reader who you are and engages him in your story. But, it is important to have pictures, videos and other available multimedia in your posts because that attracts users more than just text, thus reduces your bounce rate and increases time on site.

  1. Outbound links


They help Google to focus on your page`s topic, thus this helps you boost your page`s rank in Google.

  1. Keyword in first 100 words


Putting the relevant keyword early in your content emphasizes that your article is about that particular keyword.

  1. H1 Title tag


That is your headline tag. Most platforms automatically add this tag but some themes are built to override it, so check your settings and see if it needs to be adjusted. H1 tag for your title tag is the most important thing for your on page SEO and the best thing you can do for your blog.

  1. Loading speed


This is an important signal to search engines. Users don`t like to wait for pages to load and if it takes more than 4 seconds they usually leave. That is a bad sign, search engines do recognise it and your bounce rate increases. Use CDN, compress images and have a good and fast host for your site.

  1. Social sharing buttons


Search engines do recognise the importance of social sharing and to take it into consideration when ranking your site.

  1. Long content


Longer content ranks significantly higher in Google. At least 1500 words per post.

  1. Bounce rate


Why do people stay on some sites and leave others? First impression is the most important one, but a second too. Take loading time into consideration but more importantly your design - make it simple, clean and user friendly. Write compelling stories and add internal links to your posts.

  1. LSI keywords


Google uses them to determine page`s relevancy and quality. LSI can be found at the bottom of Google search (searches related to..) or in Google Adwords Keyword tool.

Don`t be afraid to do your research. I know these three little letters, S - E - O, can be a little bit intimidating at times but, if you just give yourself enough time to do your homework on what it takes for good SEO and to really understand it, you will be OK. Awesome, as a matter of a fact. As scary as it may seem it is really very simple and can be summarized in one or two sentences. Like Jason DeMers did for Forbes magazine:

Ensuring that your topic and keywords are clearly identifiable in your content, URLs, and header and image tags isn’t difficult (though it does take time), and will go a long way toward ensuring the best possible organic search rankings for your content. But most important of all, ensure that you’re publishing awesome content on a regular basis. That’s the foundation of on-page SEO in today’s modern era of SEO.


From my experience, SEO sounded really, really scary and when a friend of mine told me how this is basically cheating and that Google can and will punish me and ban me, I was terrified. What to do? Just play by the rules and you will be ok.

It took me some time to find a source from which I can understand and really learn about this topic, and I did baby steps. Connecting the dotts can seem slowl at times but in the end it will all fall into place. Lucky for us, Wordpress has amazing plug-ins that can really help. All you have to do in the end is just write. And write good.

How do you SEO your blog? Do you believe in SEO commandments or do you just play it by the ear?


photo source

 

designer love: ABO and Ana Ljubinkovic

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There are no words to describe this perfection. Shoe perfection. I am in total awe with these shoes. Some might find them too colorful or not to feminine, but I don`t care, I just love, LOVE, LOVE them. These are made by serbian based designer collaboration between ABO and Ana Ljubinkovic (she is by far my favorite designer from exYu).


These beauties can be bought in Belgrade where Ana has her studio/boutique. And a pair (at least!) needs to be mine. I don`t even know which to pick first! I need help. Should I put it to a vote? Anyhoo, I was mesmerised by the design of the whole collection and can`t wait to get my hands on one of them. And you know how much I love man inspired shoes. You remember "the ugly shoe", right? And my recent purchase was no different - pure beauty.

This is her fourth collection and it contains 12 different designs. I really can`t decide which are more perfect. I know I sound like a child in a candy store, and to be honest I feel so too!



ABO + Ana Ljubinkovic

ABO + Ana Ljubinkovic

DIY notebook

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notebook DIY

Sometimes you just want to make something on your own, and you don`t want it to be made of a plain white paper. Since I am a total notebook psycho and could own a gazillion of them I decided that I needed one more. This one will be for a special project, of which you will read soon (so stay tuned!), made by my two little hands out of recycled paper. Ok, it has strange, unnecessary holes in it, but, I think it adds to its special character. Here is one easy diy notebook tutorial for you to try this November.

The making of is very easy. Find a bunch of papers you like and would use to make your own notebook, fold it in half, punch some holes and bind it all together. Easy peasy!

20141102_09530320141102_121341 20141102_09543320141102_12590720141102_12580620141102_124552 

Can`t wait to share this special project with you.

I love reusing stuff, reinventing, recycling and I really enjoyed making this notebook. I hope you liked my little tutorial.

 

How to write a successful to-do list?

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how to write a to do list


And how to write a successful one? Usually to-do lists are being made so we could become more productive, so our actions become more targeted and our plans more successful. We use to-do lists for planning as well as reminders. To-do lists are useful tools to save time, to reach a goal, to avoid procrastination and to increase productivity. But do they always work? Not so much. Even the best of the list makers (Ben Franklin) have failed at this task. So, how to write a successful to-do list?


Each and every one of us is a special person, an individual with its own set of characteristics and rituals, sets of behaviours and routines. So, it is natural that different things work for different people but in the end there are few good tips that can summarize this subject to useful 4.

  1. Divide big projects into smaller tasks to make the list do-able. Tasks need to be as much as specific as possible, as well as actionable and attainable.

  2. Priorities Prioritize. PRIORITIZE! or you will end up with a (huge) list too long for us to keep, because our mind can`t keep track and can easily get lost in the process.

  3. Plan ahead ..for the following day, week, month... or a project milestone. If you set a clear and specific view of the tasks in question and get a visual understanding of a set time-frame, having a to-do list planned ahead for each phase of the project keeps us prepared and aware, focused and intentional.

  4. Be realistic in your planning If you fail at this point (maybe this one should be the first one to have in mind when planning to make a to-do list) your to-do list is doomed and becomes pretty much a moot point.


Asses your life and daily routine objectively. We all have ideas about how we would love to live our lives, execute our to-do lists and whatnot, but in the end we need to be honest and realistic about ourselves and our own abilities. And more important, our time. After initial routine assessment, if you don`t have a routine - make one (it’s one of the most powerful ways to become a great list maker) and if you do, see how you can incorporate lists and executing tasks in hand for more productivity.

BONUS - we all are different and each individual has its own way. Find out which one works best for you.

Double bonus  - How I did it, or am trying to do it?:

+ work - write important tasks in your notebook, planner, list and do ONE task at the time.

+ blogging - try to write at work when procrastination kicks in (lets be honest, it happens) - that is a great way to cultivate the routine of writing and to avoid procrastination, which in most cases leads to nowhere. Even when disguised as "research" or "inspiration browsing".

+ have a break in between - aprox. 5 to 10 minutes so your brain can reset, reboot and recharge and start fresh on a new task without feeling overwhelmed or preoccupied.

I feel that is important that you don`t lose focus of what is important, and that is that you need to listen to yourself and see how you live and work and what are the best options for you in your line of work so you would make the most of any list. No need to lose focus and energy on comparing yourself with others and their methods.

 What are your methods for staying productive and when making to-do lists? Do you make lists? Paper or app? I would love to hear from you.

Good bye my little friend

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benI still can`t believe he is gone. I can`t believe I am actually writing this post, about his death. Do you remember this post? It was not long ago when I wrote it and I never imagined that I would be saying my goodbye so soon.

Ben passed away on Tuesday, 28 Oct only 30 minutes after my arrival home. As if he was holding on so I could say my goodbye. Which I didn`t really, because he looked better after few hours of IV and I thought he was gonna get better. Only he did not.

Ben was 12 years old, maybe even more, and was and rescue dog. He was with us for almost 2 years, it would be 2 around Christmas. I miss him so much. Even the cats miss him. He got sick so suddenly and was gone in 3 days. I know he was old but I have to be honest, I did not think his time would be so soon. Everyone says, at least he died with us, not alone, at home and not out on the cold. Yes, that brings me some comfort, but he is still gone. Last few days went by in a bit of a blur for all of us. I have been crying my eyes out, and I can only imagine how my husband is doing. Although I "picked" him, he was his dog. Or should I say, he was Ben`s human. He picked him in the end. Listened to him and cried when hubby was on business trips, and I was the only one at home. He loved him so much.

It is so strange without him in the house. Although he was a quiet dog who loved to sleep and just chill all day long, I can feel the emptiness all around me. I don`t need to pay attention in the kitchen when I walk, there is no one to be stepped on. I can open the fridge just like that, he is not sleeping in front of it. The floors are clean and no one is waking me up at crack of dawn to let him out to pee or bark at a hedgehog. I would do anything to wander the front yard at 4 am, looking for an intruder that keeps my dog up. They would make friends and then Ben would tried to eat it. Not good. But I would trade the world for it. I miss him so much. Even the cat is depressed.

Ben, my dear little friend you gave us 2 wonderful years and you were family to us. Not a pet. Family. You taught me that old dogs, and gosh you were old, can be taught new tricks. YAY! We didn`t get to do the "roll over"s but... when we meet again, I am sure we will. By the end you were blind and deaf but you still new when to greet us at the door. You went away quickly and quiet as if you knew we couldn`t handle making the decision of putting you to sleep. I don`t think I could do it. You died in our arms, at home, loved more than I will ever be able to describe. But you knew.

And we will always love you.

Be happy my friend beyond the rainbow in dog heaven. And you will never be hungry again. Ever.

And when the time comes, I know you will give us a sign whom to rescue next.

Love you,

I.

 

Tricks of the trade

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tricks of the trade

"Tricks of the trade" is a new series of posts here on NCS that will feature interesting tricks and/or tools when it comes to blogging. Precisely, how to be a savvy bloger internet or technical wise. For my first post I decided to share with you my latest discovery - Fotofuse. Fotofuse is an internet tool for making your photos better. Better how? Let me tell you a secret...

Fotofuse is a tool that can help you with your layout photos that have bad backgrounds due to bad lighting etc. Of course, it would be great to have all the means and conditions to take the perfect photo on your own but when this fails this is where Fotofuse steps in. Removing too dark backgrounds from your photos in few seconds is both very practical and time saving. No more photoshoping although, don`t get me wrong, taking crappy photos (like I often do, shame on me) is not going to change with this tool, it helps a bit but does not change the fact that you need to do your best when taking photos.

Here it is how it works. You visit the site, upload the photo, select the items on your photo which you would like to leave original and click away! Wait a few seconds and your photo is done.

Lets see how I did.

Reserved skirts

Reserved skirts_after

 

What do you think? Would you use it? Tell me some of your great tricks of the trade, I would like to learn something new.

Fall closet cleaning

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fall closet cleaning


Seasons change and now is the perfect time for fall closet cleaning. Just before it gets really cold, and you put away all your summer and transitional clothes, it is time to revise, clean and get rid of everything and anything you don`t need.


How to do a successful fall closet cleaning? What should you leave and what needs to go? Do not worry my friend, here are some easy steps to help you make that hard decision (trust me, we have all been there) and part with that shirt or pair of pants you kept in the back of your closet for past few seasons and never even showed them to the world.


Although we are used to the term "spring cleaning", any season really is good to dive into your always full closet, because, let’s face it, how many of us are blessed with THAT big closets?

First thing is really to make a decision and stick to it. No matter how hard it may seem, if any item checks a box from this list it needs to go. Being sentimental is understandable but really do you need a 10 years old sweater that collects dust at the back of your closet just because you had it at some event that is a great memory. Yes, I am all for great memories and cherishing them, but not in the back of the closet. It only means it’s not that important.

  1. Will I wear it in next month/season?


The everlasting question to which, of course we always say - YES! although we know it deep down we never will. By hoarding stuff you are just working against yourself, getting more and more drowned in things you don`t really need or wear so no wonder you have nothing to wear. Maybe you do, but can you find it?

  1. Stains that aren`t coming out


If you gave it all your shots, dry-cleaners and/or even tried with alien substances and the stain is still there - it needs to go. Only if you plan to wash your windows or floors with it, and we have equipment for that nowadays you know - throw it away.

  1. Would you buy it right this second?


If the answer is NO, the course of your actions should be only one - get rid of it. Thinking about whether you will wear it in the next few months is tricky, because if it’s something summer-y and now is winter time I can relate to your dilemma, but ask yourself this - if I were now in the store buying super duper clothes for that particular season would I buy that particular item? No? Garbage or sell or give it to someone, just don`t put it back in the closet.

  1. Does it fit?


Yes, no... maybe? Will it fit in a week? Too big or too small? Do you plan on that big of a change? Are you on a diet? It doesn’t fit. Throw it away.

N.B. There is one exception to this rule. If you have a favourite pair of jeans, that makes your ass look like better than the most beautiful but photo-shopped ass ever, and plan to wear them in the near future and are in fact on a path to make that happen - then leave it for 12 weeks. If at the end of those 12 weeks you are (or) never near the goal or worse quitted your path/plan in first 4 weeks - get rid of them. They don`t mean that much to you :) and more important, they don`t fit. Been there, done that. It is disappointing at times but in the end we need to be honest with ourselves. If we won`t work for it... we won`t have it.

  1. Does it express your style?


If you bought it on a whim, or because it was trendy at the time but it doesn’t really speak you or your personal style - it needs to go. Trust me; you will never wear it no matter how much you try. If you just don`t feel it - you don`t feel it. Trends come and go but your style is your style and it is something you feel from inside out, no matter if it changes with time, but it expresses you.

For example I have a strange love/hate (I am not sure if that is even a proper name for it) relationship with floral print. I LOVE it on other people but can even imagine it on myself. And when I see an item in the store, it can totally ooze with wonderful pattern and call me softly "buy me, I`m so pretty" in the end when I try it on... it’s just... blah. And I have never ever bought anything floral. On the other hand I made that mistake and bought a peplum blouse. It’s still hanging in the closet (which reminds me, I need to put it up for sale), I`ve worn it maybe 2-3 times and felt totally strange. I don` even know why. Needs to go!

  1. a) this one relates to number 5. Buying trends... well, it is kind of self-explanatory, if it`s a trend, it won`t be at one time for sure but then ask yourself one important question - no matter the current trend situations would you like to wear it in a year or two great, but if not - don`t even buy it let alone leave it in your closet.


Bonus points - if its torn, stretched beyond recognition or if it, god, smells odd (and you keep that in your closet?!) you should really clean your closet more often and definitely throw that one right away.

I hope these points helped you with your decisions for fall closet cleaning challenge. It can be hard and I too prolong the inevitable more than I would like to even admit to. But in the end we live such crazy lives and get cluttered with immense amount of things every day, so to keep our lives de-cluttered and more flow-y as much as we can, at least we can get rid of what we really don`t need. The clothes you don`t need and is still wearable donate to goodwill and those less fortunate.

And tell me, how often do you clean your closets? What method are you using to stay on track with your de-cluttering? I would like to know. I clean my closet 2-3 times a year but I feel I could do even more.

Share your great tips with me <3
 
photo credit /photo was edited by me and is submitted to same CC license as the original

Currently craving - Green and gemstones

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Need I say more? These are pure perfection and no wonder I am a "shoe" person. Green and gems? Yes please. Although I should be looking for boots I am still not ready to let summer go.

New in - silver shoes

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 silver shoes


I have a big love to manlike shoes. I just adore them. Also, I have a big love for shinny objects so it was only natural for me to buy this pair at F21 the second I saw them. I could wear them all the time. And the most fun part are the reactions of people around me asking why did I buy them. Because I liked them, of course. But they just don`t understand. I even got a new nick name - Spaceman.

Can`t wait to show you my all pink girl outfit paired with these! Wore it few days a go on a beer date with my hubby.
What can I say, I`m a sucker for the ugly shoe. Remember these?  I still can`t get over them.

Soft paws - my furry babies

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While my initial plan was to post something form "Blogging 101" series (that is still not a real series edition but I am so working on that) I decided to introduce you all with my/our furry family members. Since we don`t have children and I absolutely adore animals it is only natural to have a pet or two. Or four. We are talking about three cats and one dog. They are all rescue animals and have been with us some for 3 years and one little baby barely a week.


They are my babies. I love them more than anything in the world and each day they amaze me how different they all are and how much character they actually have. To me they are not just animals, pets, cats and a dog. They have their personae, characters and people who treat cats and dogs just as animals that populate Earth with us just as trees and stones, they won`t understand what I am talking about. These guys are my family. Our Family.


The first one that came to our little family is Mirko. The big drama queen that was rescued on our vacation at sea side and brought home at approximate age of 1.5/2 yrs. He is a silky silver/gray tabbby cat who would loved to be the only cat, dramatically ruling his kingdom as he pleases. He is what you call, a real cat. Hard headed vain diva who will allow you to pet him when and only when he wants it to. Usually its at the least convenient time for us. But when he comes to you for his pet-time he is the most gentle and attentive cat ever. He snuggles so hard as if he is a baby kitten trying to hide from the world in his moms arms. He is always on the lookout, worrying there is some one to get him. Drama queen.


The Stoner and the most chilled cat ever is the second addition to our family and is named Slavko. Orange with lush soft fur, relaxed as if he is stoned beyond limits, he will allow you to do anything to him as long as you pet and feed him. He is also a notorious food kleptomaniac. People, watch your plates! He was abandoned in the city, all skinny and hungry advertised on social networks and while my husband intended him as a present to our friend that "lost" her cats at the time, Slavko stayed with us. And yes he looks just like Garfield. So the food issue was not a surprise. Plates people, plates!



After these two got along (about a year or so after the first cat came to us) and Mirko accepted the fact that some "commoners" are being brought to his kingdom but hoped that that one was the only one, something imaginable happened. Some big, strange creature came along, sniffing and drooling and it was really big! Guys spent three days camping up high on a refrigerator until they got used to our new addition - dog. He was a 10/12 years old rescue dog (we named him Ben) that had numerous health problems, behavior problems and was attacking both people and other dogs. Now he is one of the most calm, gentle and caring creatures I have ever met. But watch out for your plates. He was probably hungry a lot so will eat almost anything.



The last but not the least is a five months, completely blind kitty called Ozren. But we call him Ozy. He came to us 5 days ago and I can`t imagine my life without him. He is not at all disabled by his lack of sight. It is amazing how he manages through our house, we even found him on top of a AC unit, just chillin`, you know.  And the way all of them just clicked together is beyond words. He is completely black, his eyes were infected with virus thus taken out and he has one white mustache. He is the coolest cat ever. He plays with toys, climbs anything and everything, catches flies and butterflies just like any "normal" cat would do. He plans to join a circus, be a champion snuggle-ball and never grow up. Kitties are the best!



Now I just need one group photo. A family portrait.

Trip to Vienna

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viennacollagevienna4



Vienna. Charming and warm city of kings where the old meets the new in perfect harmony. I had the pleasure to spent few days wondering the streets. Unfortunately it was a really short trip, only two days, but still I had the time to browse a city a little bit, do some shopping and enjoy the crowded streets of Austrian capital city.


I was amazed how clean the city is. Amazing. Since it was a city of kings it is only natural to keep up the appearances, and look more than presentable. Its architecture is magnificent, what I loved the most is the combination of old and the new. Stone and glass. How hundreds of years  meet something made almost yesterday. The combination is amazing. The old structure has not been compromised by the new adaptation or addition. The city lives on but respects and cherishes the heritage. And have I mentioned how incredibly clean Vienna is. Amazing. As I said.


Museums and churches, fashion and culture, Starbucks and the most amazing ribs in my favorite Viennese brewery 15-16 are the staples of my journey. It was not the first time I was there but I am sure not the last either. Next time hopefully I will stay for a longer period.

What can I say about shopping? I raided F21 and Primark, since you know, we don`t have them in Croatia and I can only look the windows of Prada & Co. I went to few second hand stores, found really nice things but also that they are quite a bit pricy. QUITE! So, SHS did not go well, but at least I got the chance to feast my eyes on some really nice vintage pieces. French. Vintage. Be still my heart.

All in all I loved Vienna really much, but Prague somehow left a bigger impact. Maybe because I was there longer and had more time to really soak the city in. There is no need to say London is another story all together. Anyhoo, its been a long time since I`ve been on the move, so I won`t complain. Who knows where I will go next?! Kitchen probably.
What is your favorite city you`ve been to?

Link Love

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link love

What I have found, read and been inspired with in the past week.


 

  • We all love Instagram, don`t we? But how real out IG life really is? Olivia tells the truth.

  • Become and stay more productive, Clementine knows how.

  • Bullet journaling? Find out. Try out. watch the video. For all the writers out there.

  • Are you in pursuit of tomorrows lunch recipe? Something new and tasty? Mozzarela stuffed turkey meatballs are to die for. I have tried it and loved it. Forgot to photograph it.

  • 5 Timeless Books of Insight on Fear and the Creative Process - "“Creativity is like chasing chickens,” Christoph Niemann once said. But sometimes it can feel like being chased by chickens — giant, angry, menacing chickens." I know the feeling. All creatives do. I guess.ΕΎ

  • Freebies for planners and planner makers, organizers, list makers and such. Enjoy.


photo

In & Out

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dosnaddontsvogue

Seasons change by their natural pace, but when it comes to fashion seasons and trends the pace is a bit faster and it can at times be, well, let me quote Vogue UK on that - overwhelming. Thank god we live in these digital times where (and when too) the latest info and trend in fashion are available just in few clicks. Right there on your fingertips. So what has Vogue declared to drop this season and what to shop?


And what do I think about their ideas. Because, my opinion is more important than Vogue`s. Right.

1. Out with the pool-side slip-ons, in with the wedge heels.

Hmh, I haven`t been to the pool side this summer so, no problem there. I have in total "0" pairs of slip-ons. No worry there. Wedge heels. This season I am so not into these. In general I love them, but... its like with trendy colours, I want to wear the particular one few seasons to early. Wedges are out for me but you my friend, should try them on.

2. Skinny jeans are out!? Say what!?

A-a, not for me, they are not. Dear Vogue, I would love to be IN with flared pants but, where could I buy them? Besides at Celine, Marc Jacobs and Stella McCartney’s? Feeling a bit money challenged here. But, as it goes for the trend in general, I could do flared pants. `70s baby! Peace out!

3. Colours.

Out with blinding colours that stop the traffic and substitute as danger signs on highways, and in with more eye friendly "cold weather" shades like "camel, sludge greens, mauves, off-browns and bruised purples". LOVE this suggestion. I am so on board. But, this is kind of expected, usually people do wear more darker and not so bright colours during fall and winter and so do I. I know, so predictable. The thing is, red in winter, with all the gray gives me head-aches and soft pastel shades, well are not for me, cleanliness wise.

4. out: hip-hop styled sportswear. In: humble craftwork, embroidery, distressed textures.

I don`t really remember going crazy over anything hip-hop, and I can`t say I have seen this trend suffocating the streets. So, we`re OK here. For Chanel crafted items I can always say - gimmeeeee! More feminine aproach is something I can see myself in, but, let’s try to stay on the minimal side of things. We can go overboard with furry fake fur coats in emerald colours. Or purple and white. Find the animal in you. /not on this list?, OK, don`t mind me then./

5. More skin vs. less skin.

OK, what a shocker. With temperatures falling rapidly with each passing day I can say that this is spot on since going out while snowing wearing just crop top and shorts with slip-ons is... something you don`t need Vogue to tell you not to do. But, I will give them a high five on making a point on seasonal dressing since I find it so annoying seeing fashionistas in, Milan lets say, in February, with snow up to your knees wearing strappy sandals. There is no BIP BIP way that you/they are not cold. No way. And I hate that. But that is another story to tell. In another time and post. So, LAYER UP!

6. Fur vs Fur.

Let me explain. So, you are OUT with your bright colour, printed exotic real fur coats and IN with "cuddly sheepskin". The bonus is if you give it that before mentioned `70s flare. If you find flare pants in any store besides Celine, Marc Jacobs and Stella McCartney’s. Or some other designer I can`t afford. I can`t decide on this one. Style/design wise. Real fur is always a big NO. So I will buy a blue fake fur cookie Monster type coat and have it my way. Or the really hairy one at Primark. Check it out.

7. Hair.

Say bye bye to bleached and dip dyed hair and just be yourself. Vogue has decided that this year, you are allowed to. Just kidding. It’s my natural red pigment talking, that envious little voice inside that wants to have silver white hair but can`t. Because you`re a ginger. And your hair falls out when you go blond. Every time. Remember this?

Just to clarify, I love Vogue and respect them and would give some organs to work there. I hope no one got offended by my post, just goofing and not trying to offend anyone. The thing is, fashion can sometimes go a bit crazy for no reason so, the best way to deal with it is to laugh it off.
What do you think about trends in general? Do you follow them or have your own style you live by? What would you most rather wear from this list and what is the worst trend you`ve seen in general that has conquered the masses?

Photo used for collage is from Vogue UK.