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All images by Courthead Does Photography, Courtney Christian

SHOP THIS LOOK:

All items available at Village Collection boutique, they ship anywhere! Give code DD10 for 10% off. Call 304-525-2204.

Charlie Jade floral maxi skirt @ VC Boutique (couldn’t find online), same skirt except solid wine here   l   Sam Edelman V-Neck tank   l   Seychelles black “Gypsy” sandal   l   Big Buddha purse, similar   l   L. George bracelet

Recently, I have been in an unexplainable rut, I just haven’t been myself. There are times I let my thoughts get the best of me. Sometimes I let my mind think about the “what ifs” too much, which I’m sure all of us are guilty of, but there comes a point in life where you just have to let go and believe, trust and have faith that God has you on the right plan in life.

Good friends, family and faith (FFF) = a good support system. Last night I had dinner with a very special friend of mine who shares many of the same passions as me. About a month ago I had given her a copy of my Grandfather’s 10 Commandments to Success, and she verbalized one specific commandment to me during our conversation, which was “Never let a rut become a grave.” Those words were all I needed to hear, it was almost like my Grandfather was speaking to me directly. I immediately felt better and uplifted, almost a little emotional. I was dwelling on too many “what ifs” that I didn’t have answers for and creating a grave.

My Grandfather was a very successful business man and very wise. I cherish these commandments left by him beyond words. Needless to say, all of us can get in ruts, but the most important thing is to not let it consume you. If you work hard, be kind and stay positive, good things will happen. There are times when you can dig yourself a grave so far you believe that you will never get to see the light at the end of the tunnel, this is when- above anything else- you must have FAITH and just trust that everything will be okay. 

This floral maxi by Charles Jade reminded me of new life, it’s simply beautiful. The floral pattern and the colors couldn’t have been chosen better. Wearing the skirt rejuvenated my spirit, and it still does every time I look at these pictures.

Remember that Faith, Love and Kindness go far, so smile at strangers and they will smile back. Show kindness even when it isn’t fair. Give to others and help make this world a better place. Do not judge, because we are here for each other.

I’m sorry if this post seems a little heavy and isn’t all about the fashion and style. I love all of you who take the time to read my blog, and wish everyone health and happiness. Please reach out to me and let me know your thoughts! Until next time.

Always be kind,

Erica   

 10 Commandments To Success by William C. Turnbull

1. WORK HARD-  take the hardest job first every day.
2. STUDY HARD- the more you know, the easier and more effective is your work.
3. HAVE INITIATIVE- ruts can deepen into graves.
4. LOVE YOUR WORK- there’s a sense of satisfaction in doing work well.
5. BE EXACT- haste can never substitute for accuracy.
6. HAVE COURAGE- a stout heart will help carry you.
7. BE FRIENDLY- only friendly people become successful leaders.
8. CULTIVATE A PERSONALITY- personality is to man what perfume is to the flower.
9. WEAR A SMILE- your smile will reflect back to you from the faces of others.
10. DO YOUR BEST- for if you give to the world the best you have, the best will be returned to you.