Well, it has been awhile! I’ve missed you all. I needed some time to get use to my new reality. It hasn’t been easy. I have a full time job, I now home school my kids, and I’ve taken on a lot of other responsibilities I usually outsource (such as cleaning my house). The amount of laundry has somehow multiplied. I also spend way too much time in my own kitchen. Overall, I’ve been through a range of emotions and I still struggle but I have also made peace with my current situation. I know this is temporary and I am also doing my best to “self-care”. I do yoga, take walks, and force my kids to play soccer with me outside as much as possible. I color… at this point, maybe more than my kids.

I know that you have also had to find your own way around this new reality. We are all meeting new challenges in unique ways. But I think we can all agree that one of the things getting us through this is each other. My family and friends have remained close… through email, phone calls, texts and social media. Those connections have meant everything to me. I hope you have also found a similar outlet.

When we get back to our '“new normal”, what will it look like? I have so many questions. But one thing I’m certain of is that retail will be changed. We have already heard about retailers filing for bankruptcy. We have seen brands dropping prices. We have gotten a little more comfortable with “online” shopping. Even when retail re-opens we are likely to shop differently.

Our retail needs have changed. I will most likely not be heading back into my home office for quite some time. I suspect that there are others in a similar position. As such, “work clothes” are no longer on my radar. I’m much more interested in purchasing “lougewear” or “activewear” for my work from home situation. I wonder how may of you feel the same way and how that might impact the retail landscape.

It’s finally memorial day weekend and the weather here in New England is improving. Being outside is lifting my spirits and I hope it does the same for you! Let’s try to see the upside as much as we can. And let’s focus on things that will help us to feel better if not our best.

Now for those of you who have pressed pause on shopping but are thinking of adding some additional pieces to your wardrobe, there are still Memorial Day sales to be had. Here are a few of my favorites to inspire you this holiday weekend.

jcrew 2.jpg — J. Crew Eyelet Flutter-Sleeve Top

Vineyard Vines Island Eyelet Tiered Swing Dress