It’s a full week into the Pink Collar Savvy & Chic on Purpose Project and blessed is the best way to describe how I feel on Day 8. Yesterday I was finally able to figure out the photography piece and it’s opened up a whole new world for me – or rather, it’s helped me to view my home not only as my sanctuary but as my studio as well. All of the artwork, area rugs, books, china, flowers, fabrics, furniture, heirlooms, knickknacks, lamps, picture frames and vintage finds I’ve gathered to feather my nest now serve as an endless source of inspiration and props for blogging. And as a diehard Maxxinista and self-proclaimed Shabby Chic-Ophile, all of my TJMaxx, Marshall’s, and Home Goods finds, along with Simply Shabby Chic treasures purchased from Target and Ebay make the mix Pink Collar Savvy & Chic picture-perfection.

Rachel Ashwell Simply Shabby Chic Wood Painting. Ebay for $10!  

In addition to being more mindful about all of the above, I’m also more cognizant of not needing to go out and purchase more decor (or at least not much more!). I’ve filled my home with things that I either find beautiful or know to be useful. William Morris of wallpaper fame declared you should have nothing but, then Rachel Ashwell, the founder of the Shabby Chic movement, added comfort to the criteria. Adhering to these maxims while remaining true to my innate Shabby Chic sense of style (I painted old furniture, made slipcovers, and flea marketed out of necessity long before it was chic) makes it easy to resist acquiring things that don’t fit my aesthetic, into my home or my budget!

Another area where my awareness is heightened is in how natural light spills into rooms and makes for gorgeous photos whereas artificial light casts a glare. That sounds elementary, but I am a novice. Using only an iPhone and no other equipment,  taking pictures in the right light makes  a world of difference. This knowledge makes more intentional about not squandering my day away. I need to be planful in order to maximize sunlight, which includes neatening things up – an additional blessing. Being more aware of the creation (the sun) makes me more appreciative of the Creator (God).

So while I spent a good deal of my Sunday tidying up and taking pictures that I hope to use this week (my work schedule causes me to miss most of the best light), I also made sure to do below:

Favorite Yardlong (a horizontal picture) with a Favorite Scripture. Family Christian Bookstore – Recently liquidated. : (

Hopefully, my photography skills will catch up with my enthusiasm. What a blessing it’s been to blog and be Pink Collar Savvy & Chic on Purpose this week! Blessings!!!