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Slowing down and trading fair…

Sunday, August 9, 2015


To say that there is a lot going on in my life right now would be a vast understatement.  I'm trying to coordinate another trans-Atlantic move (yep, my expat days are drawing to a close), figure out how to afford knee surgery, and get my new life back in the states set up, all while continuing to work as much as possible, plan out our upcoming "Final European Shebang," and sell everything that I have that I can live without.  

I will say that if SB and I were married and I was on his orders to go back to the states, things would be much easier.  But that's not the reality. 

Anywho, I've found that I need to chill out.  Just slow down or shut off for a bit, which hasn't been easy, as I've been zooming between jobs for the last several weeks (in case you didn't know, international moves are rather expensive).  So imagine my surprise when on my way from babysitting off base to working on base, I stumbled upon this magical place.  I'd been driving right past these fields for several weeks, but they'd just cut the hay, and I discovered a giant sunflower field right smack in the middle of it!  I pulled over immediately and spent about 20 minutes appreciating the great outdoors. 

I also got something of a boost from this outfit.  Before I started blogging, about 90% of my clothing came from consignment stores, thrift shops, or were hand-me-downs, because I'm a total cheapskate and it's friendlier to the environment to keep using what is already in existence.  Once I got into the swing of things with blogging, I started picking up quite a few pieces from wholesalers and I didn't feel all that great about it.  I decided to make a change and started reaching out to companies with a more eco/fair trade vibe and I am happy to share with you this beautiful tunic from Ash & Rose, a company that is all about sustainable fashion, fair trade and empowering women.  I'm also over the moon to show you this stunning handmade bag from Better Life Bags, a company based in Detroit, that hires women who have faced various barriers in employment, to create these works of art and better their lives! 







9 comments on "Slowing down and trading fair… "
  1. Such a pretty Tunic! I really admire your style, and your blog is beautiful! Cool to meet you:)

    http://thediamonddays.com

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  2. soo cute

    Kisses
    Irena
    New post is on >>>> http://www.irenadworld.com <<<<
    ♥♥♥

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  3. Was juuuust having a conversation about the whole wholesaler / human rights issue. Good for you for trying sustainable (I feel like I want to call it *kind*?) fashion.

    faitboum.com

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    Replies
    1. It's a bit tricky trying to break the habit and also narrows options like crazy, but I think it's a good thing.

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  4. Sounds a bit hectic and stressful! I'm sure it'll all be worth it though. :) Lovely outfit and great backdrop. xxx
    www.justemma.co.uk - natural beauty, affordable fashion, everyday life

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  5. Great bag. :)
    I'm into sustainable fashion as well.
    I shop in thrift stores frequently, not only because is environment friendly (rather than buying a new dud from a fast fashion chain), but also because I love a good and thrilling hunt for a precious gem that I can uncover in a thrift shop.
    I also refashion -- I like to transform older clothes from wardrobe that I'm not so excited about anymore, or that I haven't worn in years, and I upstyle them and give them a completely new and refreshed look. Makes me feel awesome about it!

    Cheers!

    http://fashionstylebeautyandmore.blogspot.ca/

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