Monday Musings: On Relevancy and Honesty
I have a lot to percolate about my trip to Miraval in Austin and will share an update as soon as things have gelled. I did want to express my surprise to hear from readers who felt offended that I would be interested in and attend sessions on everything from yoga to Lunar phases, to meditation, Reiki, and learning about crystal energy, etc. I don’t see them as in conflict with my spirituality, but some people do.
I choose to explore the world and be open to new experiences. Having an open mind and curiosity about life helps keep us relevant. I’ll continue to share my discoveries and thoughts with you here because, although not an open book, I am willing to expose parts of myself to my audience. Many bloggers expose tiny snippets of their lives, and some share it all. Some also show a whitewashed, “perfect” version of their lives, which makes me feel lacking, so I won’t do that. I believe we grow and form healthy bonds by sharing our truths. I don’t expect to be everyone’s cup of tea, and if I’m not yours, I get it.
I began my blog in 2012 as a lifestyle blog. It morphed into sharing a lot of fashion as more women expressed interest. What we wear is a powerful tool that helps us express our individuality, strength, and can build our confidence. I will continue to focus on fashion, because frankly, I love it and know the potential it holds to improve our lives! FYI, I did put thought into my outfits for this trip, and didn’t capture one photo of them so that tells you where my attention was focused. I’ll recreate them at home and share soon.
I didn’t take a poll, but I think I’m the oldest woman in our group of 10 who attended this Miraval retreat which has also felt interesting.
Save or Splurge Puffer Vest Outfit
Here’s another save or splurge outfit for inspiration this week. For many of us, who don’t live in frigid climates, it’s puffer vest season so I thought this would be fun.
Some classic straight leg jeans, tan booties and bag with a winter white vest and a bright pop of pink to lift your spirits.
The logos are a giveaway here, but without them, could you tell the save vs the splurge outfit?
Thanks for reading and be sure to wear what makes you feel confident.
Ignore the critics, Jennifer. No one has the right to judge you. If they don’t like what you’re doing, they can unsubscribe.
Jennifer,
I love your blog because you do talk about things other than clothes and beauty. Getting to do an experience like Mirval can feel life changing. A chance to get a new perspective and rethink what we’ve always done. Plus a great opportunity to get realigned in one’s thinking about health, body and spirit. Go you!
It was a very important step for me to help make my health a priority.
Jennifer I have been following you since 2012, I’ve loved every post and have enjoyed seeing you grow.
You are amazing, and authentic don’t let anyone get you down or pass judgement on you!
Thanks so much Elizabeth. That means the world to me.
Sorry, off today’s subject. I wondered how are liking your new humidifier? I’m in the market for one. Is easy to keep clean? Thanks.
It’s very easy. The parts go in the dishwasher and the filter is replaceable. I use it every night
Next time you go to Miraval come to Tucson! Growing and changing with an open mind is what keeps me healthy and happy – thanks for contributing to that!
Keep opening yourself to new experiences and sharing them with us! Also, I honestly like the save outfit more than the splurge this time!
That’s awesome
Just because I don’t do what you do doesn’t mean I don’t like to hear about it. If I had spare time in Austin, I’d probably go to the capitol, see if the Legislature was in session and find a knit store and book store. I also don’t use much stuff on my skin or take supplements. To each his or her own, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t a lot of commonalities.
I was saddened to read several folks have criticized you for going to this retreat. What could possibly be the harm exploring new sides of oneself? I say everyone is entitled to seek joy, comfort, peace and wellbeing in ways of their own choosing. Why would anyone feel threatened by that?
I love your splurge/save outfits today. Thats one thing I love about your blog. It gives me style inspiration. I can pull something very similar out of my closet for tomorrow!
I think todays outfit is fun!
You do you. Anyone who doesn’t like that can just move on to another blogger.
I’m sure they will too 🤣 Thanks Kay
Hi Jennifer
Curiosity and openness are needed more than ever today. What’s on my mind is this: how can I look my best and still be kind to Mother Earth. Consumerism is killing the planet. I’d love to explore this idea with you.
I agree with you. More sustainable brands and buying better but less of it is so important.
How inappropriate for those readers to judge YOUR CHOICES for yourself. Anyone who feels that their spirituality is threatened by exposure to ideas and practices that are different must believe that they’re very weak in their own spiritual development I am truly sorry that happened to you. I would imagine that it’s very disappointing to have some of your audience respond in such a negative way. Just know there are many of us who say, “Bravo!” to your openess to new experiences.
Interestingly, it was a growth experience for me. I sat with the comments for quite awhile and then let them go. I have to learn to let things roll off my back and not stress me out.
Jennifer, the retreat sounds interesting, exploring all our choices for beliefs and practices is what keeps us going, interesting and inquisitive. The worse practice a person can do, is be rigid, no chance to grow as a person…. I do like both outfits. I don’t need a YSL purse, but the Vineyards puffer jacket I would splurge on , enjoy all your trips.
I love that puffer too.
Wow, I’m stunned that anyone would feel compelled to make negative comments about what you choose to experience! I agree with the previous posters about you doing you- and with your wise comments in return. Please know that most of us clearly appreciate your insights into much more than mere fashion (although I love that aspect of your blog too). To thyself be true!
Thanks. I share many opinions but I don’t pretend that they are “truths”. Just my opinions.
I love Miraval! Been there many times. They such great variety of classes to take. I always feel relaxed after Miraval. Not sure if it’s the scenery, the peacefulness of resort, or the classes I take. But Miraval has gone up in price so much that I haven’t been back. I hope you enjoy your stay!
Emily, you are so right! This is ancient wisdom. I did take up yoga later in life and did it until my balance issues stopped me. I love crystals and reiki which healed a severe swollen arm after having IV dye. A spiritual life is all encompassing. Religion is indoctrination of a specific faith. This is just my belief at 79. I’m open to new thought and experiences that expand my spiritual life.
I have a similar outfit, the low cost version in my closet but with light grey Swede booties. The purse gave it away for me. Can’t imagine spending that kind of money for a purse!
Hi Jennifer, I love the fact you are experimenting and trying new things and exploring in regards to health and wellness; kudos to you, and thank you so much for telling your story and sharing with your readers. It is very interesting to me, a 60 year old woman, navigating the next step. I am a huge fan and have subscribed for years. You are the very best! Ignore the fearmongering and the “haters”. Sending love xox
You’re so kind. Thanks for being here and a great part of our community!
What I love about you and what attracted me to your blog is your openness, your willingness to put yourself “out there”. You’re honest and don’t whitewash, as you put it. Love Your sense of humor, too!
(And I do love dressing room diaries! 😁)
I want to read and learn about other experiences, hear other points of view. I can then critique that information and decide what’s right for me. Isn’t that how we learn? Through our critical thinking skills?
Keep doing you, Jennifer!!
Thanks Linda
I really get annoyed when people cannot survive without posting something negative!! What is wrong with opening your mind and heart to new experiences? I believe that expands your spirituality! So please take what they have to say with a very big grain of salt. Like the other ladies have said, it says more about them than it does about you!
Huge fan of yoga, sound bath meditation, etc. I don’t see why anyone should criticize it. I’m guessing they haven’t tried it. 🙂 Can’t wait to hear more about your retreat. It sounds fabulous.
The sound bath was amazing!! I loved it all.
When my daughter was working thru the credentials needed to teach yoga, breath work and Reiki…etc. her children and I would be her class! When she explained Reiki I kept most of my skepticism to myself. But oh my goodness when we were done I was a believer……. For me it worked.
That’s wonderful!!!
You do you! In the end, we are all accountable for ourselves and no one else. Love your blog and outfits!!
Hi Jennifer, I think it is great that you are exploring and learning new things and having new experiences. We live in such a fascinating world, and I think that the more we learn, the more it makes our lives all the richer.
I agree!
It seems to me that only those insecure about their own beliefs feel the need to demand that others make the same choices. A friend put it this way: “universe big, me small.” Kudos to you for continuing to seek out new experiences.
I just found you and am so happy about it! Your post today is exactly why too – I was looking for inspiration on how I want to shape this next phase of my life and your thoughts on growth, being open to new ideas and adventures, totally resonates with me. Thank you for sharing your outlook and for your honesty! It’s truly refreshing.
Welcome Sandra!
I appreciate all you have to share. It is also a place where negativity has no place. How refreshing! Keep doing you.
I’m no fashion expert but I did guess correctly what the pricey one is. Details, I think. I like these posts!
Hi Jennifer,
I thoroughly enjoy your fashion blog and look forward to your emails. I am 68 years old and in a Christian deliverance ministry where we occasionally pray for people who have opened themselves to the “unholy” spirits through new age spirituality.
I wish you much success and look forward to your next email!
Amy
Hi Amy,
I’m puzzled by your comment.
I am so happy to be back on your mailing list….I, like others with a gmail address, was left off for a week or so. I love your blog and appreciate different points of view on subjects. Thank you for all the effort you put into the blog.
Whew!! I hope everyone with gmail got back on the list. It’s been a hair-raising process.
Hi Jennifer,
It’s wonderful to hear that you treated yourself to mind, body and a soul experience. We only grow if we keep an open mind to new experiences and to new adventures. Life is about the experience.
I liked the sign “unplug : be present,” it really makes you stop dead in your tracks to stop connecting to your phones.
I embrace, “judging people takes away time from loving them.”
You “go girl.” I’m so looking forward to hearing about your retreat.
Wonderful comment! I hope we can all judge less. It’s not easy but a worthy goal.
I happen to not agree with all the classes you attended, but why would I not want you to attend if you so choose? We don’t have to agree with everything. I’m glad if you enjoyed it and got something out of it.
Thank you Linda.
Jennifer, you do you— without apologies or explanations required. I’m always amazed by people urging others to carbon copy their lives and views. That’s very judgmental on their part. So, enjoy your time learning something new and enjoying the experience. Each of us is a unique individual, forging our own paths.
Kudos to you Jennifer for having an open mind wanting to learn. Thank You for sharing! I am anxiously waiting for more details of your weekend.
So glad you enjoyed your trip. I would love to hear more about it. I think you are right about the outfits. I don’t think I would be able to tell which was the splurge without the logos. Cute outfits.
Cannot wait to read about your Miraval experience! I love delving into the woo woo, it opens me up to different ways to enjoy the world around me.
I loved your post, as always, but was intrigued by your visit to Austin. I was raised there and have seen it change and grow over the years. I enjoy retreats where I am not only able to, but encouraged to explore more areas of my faith. I don’t see the separation, but maybe that is because I take my faith with me no matter where I am.
Really laughed at the comparison in price! The cost of that YSL bag gave me belly laughs because the Am on bag was just as much, if not more attractive, because I shy away from obvious logos.
Funny what they charge for a logo 🤣
I too am shocked that any of your readers would question your exploration of healing methods, crystals, etc. Miraval is a wonderful place and I hope it gave you a reset and energy boost. I look forward to hearing more about your experience. I have been there and to other spas. I particularly like Ranch La Puerta in Tecate, Mexico. I always come home in better mental, physical and spiritual shape and hope you did too.
Thank you for that referral!! This has whetted my appetite to explore more. My health really needs it.
In addition to all the lovely comments about your retreat, I just wanted to add that your hair looks great in that first photo!
Thank you!! I’m getting lots of new grow all of a sudden which acts as layers to lift it. Fingers crossed it continues.
I, too, like to approach life with curiosity and an open mind, including listening to and respecting others’ faith. But when people become judgmental and holier-than-thou my heart and mind drift away.
I’m always glad to read about new ideas and can’t understand why anyone would challenge your choices. Perhaps the Miraval resort is more expensive than readers could afford and that was partly the reason for the comments. For me, it’s interesting to hear of these options for wellness and well-being.
It is more expensive than some retreats but there are many specials to lower the cost.
Dear Jennifer, you are graced with an open mind and generous heart. You never stop learning and trying new things—you inspire me. Thanks for being you!
Thank you so much!!♥️
Love your curiosity!
I hope you never stop looking to recharge, connect and learn. When we stop…our lives have stopped.
Best,
Karen (another work in progress)
I agree, Karen and I will always be a work in progress!
I’m really surprised that anyone would take issue with you going on this retreat, doing different things, and getting in touch with your mind and body. I look forward to hearing your take on it.
The purse was an immediate giveaway. I do like the pop of bright pink with the downplayed outfit.
I love that pop of pink too! I may need to think about adding one to my neutral wardrobe 💕 It’s happy looking.
Your retreat sounds great. I have always been interested in unusual things like that but never venturing too far down the path. Sounds like a wonderful way to recharge. As for the spiritual aspect, I have been told that since I believe in evolution that I can’t possibly have my faith. So, just chalk it up to not an open mind and continue to explore what you like. A mother daughter get away sounds like fun too.
On another note, I am still excited to hear about your session with John Kitchener, and see if that would be another one for me as well. Some times I think I have too many choices with the palettes I have but still curious about his methods.
Continue to be your amazing self
I’m still percolating that analysis too! In fact, I’ve been focused in in the shapes and colors more this last month. I’ll keep working in that post.
I too agree with the ladies that appreciate you filling us in on “all things life.”
I love hearing about new things and approaches to better health. I have done Reiki, continue meditation, continue massage/acupuncture, and now functional medicine for the past year. Our bodies are our temples and we need to treat them better.
Even though my husband passed away from colon cancer five years ago, along with his chemo treatments, he also had Reiki treatments. I do believe Reiki extended his prognosis.
So keep doing what you are doing. I appreciate it. Thank you.
I’m so very sorry to hear about your husband, Marlene. Reiki can be very helpful for so many things. Sending hugs.
Some people can be so mean spirited and negative. The direct opposite of what you are supposed to be. How can any exploration of your own spiritual curiosity be wrong? And whose business is it anyway but yours? Yes, you might put a bit of it out there and so bravely open yourself up to narrow minded people who think there is only one path in this life. The world is flat crazy in its polarization, and the ability to hide behind a keyboard and be bullying and hostile is all too prevalent.
I agree.
If you are not learning, growing, and exploring – then what is the point!! Kudos to you for being open-minded. I love Reiki, and have you tried sound bath meditation? It’s divine!
I did two sound bath meditations and loved them!! Amazing!
My word for 2024 is “Curiosity,” so I applaud this trip that you took. I recently did a Sound Bath and just loved it! I also did a Forest Immersion walk and loved that too. We are never too old to learn and grow!
I want to try a forest immersion walk! That sounds amazing.
I will always enjoy your fashion ideas, trips, diet, hair, etc. What color is in for spring 2024? Any new fashion styles? How can over 60 not look frumpy or invisible?
Thank you for all the ideas for a well styled life.
Blessings
The new color for spring looks peach!
I spend the winter in Scottsdale and Miraval also has a location in Tucson which I have been considering. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on your retreat. Hope you enjoy it.
Your retreat sounded wonderful. Good for you to take that time for yourself. Experiencing new things is one of the most important parts of life and well being, in my opinion. I’m 77 years old and I’d go to a retreat like that in a heartbeat. Always stay true to you.
Thanks Leslie
We are all entitled to our opinion and entitled to keep to ourselves. Why anyone thinks their judgement is of general interest is beyond me. I encourage everyone to seek and find what works for them.
You’re right! I need to remind myself that someone else’s opinion is none of my business. Have a great Monday
Hi Jennifer I just joined your blog so I haven’t had a chance to make an opinion about it. I think negative people if they don’t like it need to move on and keep negative vibes to themselves. I just turned 63 and was starting to feel a bit frumpy in my clothes, so far I love your outfits and look forward to reading more.
Welcome!!
Thankyou for sharing your experiences. I have been following you since 2012 and love the fact that you like to experiment and try many things. You never judge and that is just one of many things you share in your column.
Always a fan, I like forward to your next discovery.
Wow, thanks for hanging with me so long Susan.
As Raul Paul says….IF they aren’t paying g your rent, pay them no mind!
lol, I love that
Amen to that
I love that you explore other areas of spirituality. Being open to other experiences, opens our minds. Crystals, lunar phases and meditation are areas I would, personally, find fascinating. Save or splurge today, even without logos, a snap💗 The vest and quilted crossbody were my clues. I always enjoy your blog! Thank you.
I am interested in your retreat Jennifer. As an 83 year old, yoga has kept me flexible and strong and meditation, which I started in my twenties, is now a mainstream of wholistic health programs. As science reveals more of the quantum universe to us, I believe we will keep growing in our awareness that all is one. Your blog consistently works to uplift and support others. Thank you for that!
Yoga is so good for the body and mind. My dr just recommended I do more of it because of changes in my spine.
I totally agree with you. It’s good to have an open mind, expand your knowledge, and explore new things. I would have loved to be on that retreat. Can’t wait to hear all about it!
You go girl! Experiencing these traditions will give you a long happy life, and I agree does not interfere with spirituality. Enjoy your trip!
Great post. Thank you for sharing. I can’t imagine anyone who claims to be spiritual being offended by yoga or meditation. Reiki is accepted by organizations like Hospice and many major hospital use it. Being open to life is a beautiful thing.
@Jan H. It is a bit concerning that hospitals are using Reiki which falls under the umbrella of pseudoscience.
I had Reiki during my breast reduction surgery. Recovery was quick with only aspirin for pain relief. I don’t understand how this or other modalities has a spiritual conflict. I found that the naysayers have never explored these things so who are they to tell anyone else what to do. Enjoy yourself, find yourself in the way that works for you.
Jennifer, I love how you are open to new experiences and learning, and am looking forward to an update on your spa retreat.
I read your blog because it has many things of interest and although not everything you suggest is appealing, I appreciate the intention and effort you put into it. Thank you.
I love the combination in these outfits.
Hi, I was absolutely SHOCKED there is a sign behind you in the first first photo- a Designated Smoking Area. ———annd it is Indoors. In a supposed wellness retreat. No. Just absolutely no. Second hand smoke is just as deadly as smoking itself.
This was taken at the airport. Sorry for the confusion. Although I did see a woman smoking a E cigarette.
Love your posts, Jennifer. Always good to broaden our thoughts and find tranquility and balance in whatever form one wishes. Keep up the good work!
Jennifer, I enjoy your column very much and admire your openness and spirit of adventure. It is shocking to hear that some disapprove of your exploration. Don’t listen to the naysayers…you do you! ❤️❤️❤️
Happy Monday, Jennifer. Nobody has a right to question or attack someone else’s spirituality. This is far worse than the political discussions we all want to avoid. We have only one life to live and to spend it with a closed mind attacking someone else’s core essence is just plain wrong.
I agree and it speaks more of them than it does me.
Jennifer, I liked reading about your retreat. I found encouragement that you, someone my age, were trying something new. I enjoy your work. Thank you for sharing!💖
I love the outfit inspiration……such a great simple fashionable idea and if someone needed to switch a color out for something that better suits them they could.
I also hope you’re relaxing and allowing your mind and body to enjoy your well earned down time.
It’s been an amazing experience.
As far as I’m concerned we all need to get out of our crusty comfort zones from time to time and make ourselves open to other people, other perspectives, and other customs. Kudos to you Jennifer for stretching yourself in that manner! I look forward to reading what you took away from the conference/retreat.
Crusty is such a great descriptive word! It’s so easy to get stuck in the comfort of what’s familiar.
Good morning, questioning your spiritually is strange and judging. You do you!!
Both outfits are great but the logos on the high end bag and belt are off putting to me. I don’t do free advertising. Happy Monday!
Happy Monday!
I enjoy learning about new things and have been to my share of yoga, singing bowl, Reiki, etc. Not everything strikes a chord with me but I like to keep an open mind because there is so much out there to learn about and the universe has many mysteries. Good luck on your journey.
I totally agree.
Your trip sounds great, being able to experience new things is enlightening. I do appreciate your information and ideas and being able to pick and choose what works for me but knowing lots of options that I would not have know about.
Thank you.
I am so delighted to find that you had an opportunity to experience Miraval! Years ago, as I was immersed in what was to become many years of caregiving, I attended a workshop on self-care at Miraval -Arizona. It was enlightening, refreshing and life giving. I met wise women of all ages and from all over the world. A few years later I treated myself (out of character for me) to a similar conference because I needed to recharge and it would be the final opportunity to experience one of the exceptional workshop leaders who was at an advanced age.
Lately I have been considering exploring whether I could find another workshop to attend with my daughter.
What a wonderful gift – I look forward to hearing about your experience.
Caregiving is such hard work. You were wise to look after yourself. I’m thinking I would like to do one of these with my daughter too. I’ve seen quite a few mother/daughter duos here.
Jennifer, I applaud and am inspired by your open-hearted willingness to explore any avenues previously unexplored and I’m glad you’re not allowing those motivated by fear (often unconsciously) to negatively influence your desire to do so.
I believe one key in thriving as we age is FLEXIBILITY- in our bodies, beings, and mind. It’s the core of a fitBEYONDform mentality that I embrace as my life’s work, and I feel this “flexible” energy from you in your posts, which keeps me coming back. Fashion I can take or leave, but an adventurous spirit who is continuously willing to put themselves out there- trying new things, embracing the challenge of being a “beginner” in areas previously unexplored, sharing transparently without a need for perfection, and never letting a number- age or any other, dictate their steps, THAT person is, in a word you used above and I LOVE, a PERCOLATOR. Keep perking Jennifer. Your messages resonate with all who are meant to receive them.
That’s a great way to look at it Lisa. Thank you for sharing.
Oh! ….. My! …. Goodness! ….. Be who you are! ….. And, enjoy it!
Have a great Monday!
I am sorry to hear that readers actually wrote to you, giving you grief about what sessions you attended at a retreat. You are wise to ignore them
That’s part of what I’m learning. Letting go.
Nice outfits! Glad your trip was a success. I guess questioning spirituality was the last thing I would have thought. I remember growing up we were taught to not ask what religion someone was, who they voted for or how much money they made….lol.
I was too!!
Never be afraid to try new things – how will you know you don’t like something if all you do is listen to others opinions? How many others would enjoy the ballet, operas or live theatre if they would attend a performance? Thank you for your blog. I look forward to it daily and really enjoy the Dressing Room days!
Your spa adventure sounds truly fun. The older that I get, I see spirituality in far more aspects than the religion that I was brought up in. I look forward to reading about it. But for the handbag logo, I could not tell the outfits apart. In fact, I prefer the vest in the save collection!
I am 91 years old and I’d go with you in a minute!!! Years ago, I went to my first yoga class and, for some church friends, it wasn’t acceptable. I loved the classes……and feel that it has contributed to my health. Thank you for your willingness to let us know what you are doing!!!
I’m taking a trip to Sedona next month with 3 friends who are very interested in crystals/Reiki etc. I’m going b/c my feet are so firmly planted on the ground that I think it will be good for me! I don’t see it as a conflict with my Christian faith. I applaud you to staying open to new experiences and look forward to hearing about your trip.
Good for you Carole! Enjoy!
Thanks for the save – spurge outfits. I have the outfit in my closet w/o the boots. Always enjoy your musings.
Yay. It’s a fun look.
I think it’s shows a lot of emotional and intellectual strength to be open to new experiences. I applaud that. I have often found that exploring new things has strengthened my current beliefs. Please continue with your great clothing advice. At 66, I still feel relevant and attractive. Thank you!
am so glad you did a women’s wellness retreat and if some narrow-minded people cannot be open to Ancient Wisdom that has been integrated into eons of women’s lives, then that is simply sad…
I love how you describe this as ancient wisdom. That’s exactly what it is.
On the splurge vs save, I actually have pridyced a tie! I like them equally – the first time ever for me!
Yay
Hi Jennifer! Well I applaud you for seeking out this respite and joyful experience after a hectic ( yet happy) holiday season. No matter how much happiness our Holiday season renders, it’s a lot of work for women or men (being honest here), the ones who cook and clean and shop and wrap. A respite like this sounds wonderful to me! Looking forward to learning how you packed.
Thanks Paulette
I’m looking forward to hearing about your experience in Austin; sounds very interesting to me!! I’m glad you’re sharing ideas other than just fashion. I enjoy that too though! Thanks, what you do is a lot of work!
It sure it. I’m trying to find more work life balance this year.
The YSL logo on the bag did it for me. I don’t think I could bring myself to spend several hundred dollars on a puffy vest, even though I saw a lovely Moncler at the Rome airport duty free shops. You look very refreshed after your sojourn in Austin.
I’m shocked and disappointed that people would criticize your decision to attend any self improvement activities. I’m very interested in hearing about your Miraval experience.
As my young niece says “Don’t let the haters get you down”.
Your niece is wise!
I appreciate your perspective on blogging, thank you for sharing and for being open and curious! My husband and I went to Miraval in the Berkshires last summer and loved it, looking forward to hearing about your experience.
I understand that one is beautiful!