Monday Musings-It’s a Puzzle
Happy Monday ladies. I hope you had a great weekend. With continuing lockdown in everyone’s future, I want to ask what you’d like to see more of here on AWSL. Are there topics you’d like me to cover? Things you’d like me to shop for and share? I’ll continue to discuss style and talk about fashion… but I wanted to know what else is on your mind.
Here are a few things on my mind this week-
T-Shirt Dresses
We were in the high 90’s all last week and it’s anticipated that we will be in the low 100’s all this week. That feels too hot for most things to me so I have simple t-shirts on the brain. I’ve worn this one from Target more than I ever expected so clearly, T-shirt dressing is an easy way to dress in the heat.
Unless I’m bending over cleaning something out or gardening threatening the lives of our veggie plants, a cotton dress is an easy peasy way for me to dress. Target is a great source for them in all colors, shapes, and lengths because the quality is great and the price can’t be beat.
Silk Masks 
Life looks so very different now. Everywhere I go, I wear a mask. I won’t get political about mask-wearing here and I ask that you please don’t. AWSL is a religion, sex, and political free zone. Some folks on FB don’t get that and turn nasty so I just block them and I will continue to do so. Now that I have that out of the way… I spotted a lady wearing this face shield and loved it. She gave me the info so I opened my phone and ordered it on the spot. It will be comfier for many situations but a mask will still be required.
I take special care of my complexion so I don’t want just any material next to it. I also realize that if I wear a pale mask with no pattern, the bottom of my face will look blank. I think this pandemic will change our world in ways we can’t begin to imagine and masks will be commonplace going forward. It’s probably too much to ask for a mask that will allow the focus to be on my eyes but I continue to look. I just ordered this one, and this one and this one.
The Guest List
I am thoroughly enjoying this book. Escaping into a great book is often the very best way to fill an afternoon. What are you reading? Please share in the comments.
Puzzles
My daughter picked up this vintage-looking puzzle of the National Parks and we are loving it! Even though it reminds me of all the places I can’t visit this summer. I feel like I’ve really accomplished something when I get a section put together! It’s a stressfree way to spend a few hours each day…I just don’t recommend doing them on a mirrored table:)
I’m loving this time waster so much I’ll need another one the minute this is finished.
Thanks for reading and remember to share what you’d like to see more of here.
Iām a puzzle freak! Start by āclosing the bordersā…..all the straight pieces around. Just sets it in.
I know I am late to the party on this one! I have been wearing a face shield that i bought on Amazon. It is so much more comfortable when I breath and there is nothing touching my face. It also covers my eyes which is a plus. I wear mine over my glasses an it fits fine. Every time I go out I get stopped by people asking me where I got it. Makeup is intact and I stay cool! Highly recommend.
I have several masks in different colours/patterns. I donāt mind wearing them but have to say, if Iām wearing one I am protecting you, not me. Please wear a mask to protect me, too. Yes, they are warm, they are a little uncomfortable but we need to stop COVID through care.
I’m loving the little t-shirt dress but unfortunately here in Canada we no longer have Target but shall definitely have a look-see if I can find something similar. (Thank you!)
Regarding masks; as I’ve been sewing them to donate have found that the ‘contour’ ones as in the Stealth Mask design you have shown (with the dips) and those that include a nose bridge wire, work well for those who wear eyeglasses plus they also give the best coverage. As to a comfortable and proper fit (again based on feedback), regardless of its style I recommend to shop for one that has both features and if possible gives the option of adjusting its ear loops and/or offers replacement with ties. In respect to purpose, you may wish to choose one that has a pocket for an optional filter insert of your choice.
To conclude; will be curious as to what you think of the silk fabric mask and visor plus wishing everyone one a happy summer!
Footnote: Other styles of masks are — 3D type that do not give as much coverage as generally ‘not’ as wide in width but again can offer the same features as above. I’m finding this style is ideal for these warm summer days and are particularly popular with women.
Whereas the pleated type (similar to that of disposable clinical masks having a straight horizontal design) are fine if sizing is questionable for both adults, teens and children alike however I feel it having a nose bridge wire and adjustable ear loops are still to ones benefit.
I agree about the nose wires! They improve the fit tremendously.
I would love to see a post on really comfortable, lightweight tennis shoe/sneaker recommendations. I have several pairs of athletic style tennis shoes for exercise but would like to get a lightweight, but padded and somewhat cushy, lace-up pair to wear with shorts and skirts in summer. I own a couple pair of Keds, and I love the look, but let’s face it, the foot bed in them is pretty hard and flat. Any suggestions? Thank you for your blog. You are a breath of fresh air.
I will find some for you because I need them too
I need to try a silk mask. Silk underwear is cool in the summer, so why not a mask? I would worry about weird glare with that face shield. That Natl Parks puzzle has my husband’s name all over it!
One of the things that I appreciate most about your blog is that it is political, religion and sex free! Woohoo!!!!
I would like to see more info about apple shape fashion (with flats, sneakers š).
Lastly, I love a cozy mystery!!
Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us! š
I have an idea. I am always intrigued by the cute clothes shown on your sidebar. They are the sorts of things I would buy If I could find them in my stores. The sites go by Roselinlin and other names like Noracora. Could you check these sites out and report back to us if they are legit?
Most of the sidebar clothes are ads but I will have a peek.
My idea/prediction is that weāll see scarves come with a matching mask attached at one end. Then when entering a building or meeting someone on the street, you can gracefully reach down to the the end of your artfully draped scarf and swing the mask up and on your face. I have visions of āArabian Nightsā gone modern.
Great idea!
Very nice, I would love that
I am making masks that go with most of my clothing – it’s me, got to have one to go with every outfit and can be cleaned – I’ve even got a blingey rhinestone one. I think it’s just a matter of getting used to wearing them.
One thing I use to de-fogg my glasses – clean them with shaving cream – leaves a little film on them that prevents the fogg. There’s lots of other things, but shaving cream seems to work for me and I wanna stay away from some of those unpronouncible ingredients.
Got to check out that book – I’ve been reading like a fiend during the SAH – got more time now.
Thanks for all the sweet tips today – may be I have to get one more mask…
Great post. I appreciate your links on the masks, would love to hear your reviews after wearing!
I enjoy your post regarding clean make up ,sunscreen. I seems we need to be aware of all the chemicals and additives in make up. Fast fashion, would be another interesting topic, how can we make better decisions with our fashion dollars. Books you are reading, and when you share your health issues, it is helpful to know we all have issues, and how to carry on. All the “perfect blogs, and Instagram posts” tend to gloss over real life . Blogs/instagram feeds depicting real life are infinitely more interesting to me.
Thank you for being real and inspiring!
Great ideas. Thanks for being here Elizabeth.
Jennifer, , I follow several sites on fashion and lifestyle and I like yours most by far, due to your down to earth, courteous, and friendly, warm approach.
I also find responders here interesting and often helpful. This site is very frequently my ā social circleā as I am mostly confined at home due to health issues other than Covid . Itās always a pleasure to āvisit ā here.
I must admit that, when I am able to be out, I really hate wearing a mask. I donāt care how fashionable it is or how necessary. I just hate feeling my breathing stifled and wearing something I so adamantly dislike.
That said, I have been thinking about your weekly reminder to always wear what makes us happy and confident, (masks do neither for me ) and I wanted to bring up the issue of receiving gifts of clothing from friends or family. In particular, clothing that you truly dislike and are uncomfortable in , but feel obligated to wear. I know how I handle the situation, but am curious as to how you and your other readers feel about this.
Glad you featured puzzles. They are excellent for brain and complex problem solving stimulation. And I love the quiet time, when all I hear is deep concentration .. then the fun shout, āHa! I found one!ā Itās like a treasure hunt.
Hope your hand is healing well.
I’d like to see more ideas on how to dress when your tummy is bigger. I have an apple shape. I’m also busty. I buy tunics to wear, but I’m not sure of how to add a third layer. Any help would be greatly appreciated. š
I used to feel obligated to wear gifts of clothing. No more. I simply donate it. I’ve actually never been asked why they have not seen me wearing it, but if I was, I would say that “it was a very sweet gift, but I have very persnickety taste and fit issues so need and prefer to choose my own clothes.”
I read Gothic romance and Agatha Christie growing up but during this lockdown, I stick to cozy mysteries. Some even have recipes. LOL I just want something light. I’ll improve ne mind later.
Tee shirt, sweatshirt and denim! What would we do without them. I would like to see what items you would pack if you had to pack in a hurry for a week. What’s your essentials?
I think the tee shirt dress is cute. I like it in orange, but at my local target is out of stock. sniff
Hi, Jennifer. Love the idea of tee shirt dresses, and I will have to look for some to order. Just wish there were more styles with a V neck.
One topic I am interested in is fast fashion. I love to buy clothes and am distressed to learn that most clothing brands are made overseas in sweatshops where women and children are treated horribly. I would love to know which brands regulate their factories so my purchases are not contributing to a worldwide problem.
Best wishes!
Bea
I sure wish there were more v-necks too!! I am always on the hunt and will share when I find them.
I am so looking forward to that book it’s on my Libby list. My daughter recommended the Libby app which is a free app where you can download digital books through your library and it is amazing as many best sellers are readily available, so during these crazy times you can read for free! Highly recommend. Also looking forward to Polly Samson A Theatre for Dreamers. And anything by Emma Straub. Thank you for your post Jennifer, I always look forward to reading them.
Lately I have been watching David Suchet in Poirot all twelve seasons!! And The Heart Guy and Delicious series with a glass of wine.
Clothes wise I am curious about Jackets for Fall. I am 5’2 and 56…when are you too old for a Moto leather jacket? What investment pieces are worth it long term? And how do you choose a jacket that will be timeless?
Francesca, thank you for the reminder about Libby! Just put The Guest List on hold. Seems like they are getting more new releases whereas our library is backlogged and not getting them very quickly. Happy reading!
I always enjoy your blog. Today’s variety of topics did not disappoint.
Thank you for keeping a kind, entertaining and relevant space in these strange times. I am increasingly interested in the hidden costs of fast fashion, costs per wear, etc. as a way to be more sustainable in my clothing choices. Any thoughts on that?
I too am finding puzzles a real comfort and entertainment. I especially enjoy round ones. I think it is not only meditative but a way to make sense and have a sense of mastery and control in times which feel anything but.
I bought a large cork bulletin board to put our puzzle on….you can then slide it under a bed when your not working on it! I donāt comment often but read your blog whenever it pops into my in-box! Love your make-up and skin care tips!
I am also an avid reader! You should try Louise Pennyās books set in Quebec…murder mysteryās. The first is called Still Life, at least thatās the title here in Canada! American publishers sometimes change the name!