Change your thoughts

It's true, ya know.  Your world is not reality.  I'm not talking Matrix-y stuff here, I just mean that how you see the world is based on your thoughts of how things are, as opposed to how things ACTUALLY are.  Your thoughts play such a huge role in your life; so much so that they produce a world.  So if you're in a rut, things aren't going well, etc., yeah it stinks, but change something.  Change something you're thinking about negatively into a positive, and all of a sudden you've taken a huge step toward changing you world!

And it doesn't mean that something upsetting hasn't happened to you, or that you should deny a major life change or setback.  It just means that you can acknowledge it, think a little differently than you would normally think in this situation, and everything around you changes.  You can make that happen.  I've always wanted to change the world someday, just like everyone else wants to change it.  I'm taking baby steps, though...I'm just trying to change my world for now. :)

Ciao,
A

Change your thoughts by asebourn on Polyvore

Think happy...Be happy!  (great sign from Altar'd State)

A sneak peek into my next post.  If you're guessing it's about an obsession with blazers, then you're right!

Give Thanks by Looking Good (Pt. 1)

My favorite fashions that give back this season (Pt. 1)

It's the season of giving, but let's be honest: this is the time of year when we spend the most money on the people we know and love and ourselves (c'mon, you want to look good in all the family photos during the holidays!).  Not that any of this spending is wrong, of course.  You sister is going to love her earrings you're getting her for Christmas, your dad is in total need of a new wallet, and your own Christmas list is probably full of gorgeous fashion that you can't afford to get for yourself.

So, let's make this shopping time a win-win-win situation.  Yes, that's three wins.  Let's see:
1) the person loves the gift you give them = WIN
2) the feeling you get after the person opens the gift and loves it = WIN
3) the charitable cause that received money after you bought the gift = WIN
You can have all three!  Buying something that has that charitable label on it no longer means having a colored bracelet with a phrase or symbol on it.  Here are some of my favorite brands and fashions that are included in this triple-win scenario:

www.altardstate.com

Altar'd State is a store with a boutique feel, but carrying mostly 'giveback' brands.  It carries charitable brands like Toms, FEED, FashionABLE, Krochet Kids, Rockwell Tharp, Jedidiah, and now it's own charitable namesake brand, Altar'd State! 

 Here are some of my current favorite pieces from the Altar'd State Brand, available in stores or online-

Peak-A-Boo Pleat Dress $69

Trinity Teardrop Necklace in Green

$22

Loose Pocket Sweater $49

(A portion of the proceeds from every Altar'd State brand purchase will be donated to feed, shelter, clothe and educate children around the world.)

Market Bag, $68

If you're a shopaholic, consider purchasing a reusable bag from Apolis x Steven Alan.  The company uses a co-op in India to create these handcrafted totes that are functional and fashionable!  This handy bag will also help you avoid that pesky bag tax (if your state has one).  Can't you just picture tall loaves of french bread sticking out, or a gorgeous scarf tied to the handle?





Next post: more triple-win charitable gifts including jewelry, scarves and more!

Ciao!