It Is Never Too Early, Right?

New Year's.

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..life is waking up an hour early to live an hour more...

Resolutions.

You gotta start thinking about them at some point, right?

In all honesty, I can't tell you the last time I stayed true to a resolution.  The whole, losing weight, eating healthier, staying in touch, blah blah blah, goes out the window come February (every lady wants to look good for Valentine's Day, duh).

This past year has been one for the books.  I've been my happiest & my saddest.  I've met fabulous new friends & I've had to give up on some.  I started a blog!  I've gotten my heart broken & I've bounced back.  I've learned who I am and who I want to be; where I want to go in life.  I moved into a fabulous new house.  I'm wrapping up year 5 working with my company.  I've realized that I have some pretty amazing people in my life. And my dogs rock.

All the above really do make me want to have more time in my life.  So, I'm starting my resolution early & waking up an hour early to live an hour more.

Wake up and be awesome.

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Resolution #2

$1000, yes please!

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An extra $1000, hell yeah!  Tax free too.   This will be another mission for me in 2016.  Each Monday (because my Mother always says don't do business or pay bills on Sunday) I will throw the dedicated amount into the stash.  If you make it part of your routine, it should be a breeze!  

Resolution #3

My plus one?  

Still waiting on prince charming.

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I'm at that age where there always seems to be something happening where I get a "plus one" & who wants to go to these things alone? Exactly.  Not me.  However, this year I found that searching for my plus one is NOT the way to go.  In 2016 I will have trust.  I trust that God will introduce me to my plus one that is suppose to be there.  & when I have my doubts, I will go back to "place your heart in the hands of God and he will place it in the hands of a man who he believes deserves it".

I know, I get it.  It is tough when your friends say, "he is out there somewhere", and all you want to say is "where the hell is he?"  Keep your heads up ladies, stop comparing other's "fairy tales" to your nonexistent one.   Stop reading the sappy love quotes, & have faith.  

And while you're waiting, be selfish.

Lastly.

* * *

Thank you Dalai Lama!

Where to?!  Ahhh, the possibilities!  

I mean, there was Christmas music at Halloween, so one month isn't too early to think about these resolutions for 2016!

Cheers my friends!

xo

-W

Facebook: porch & palette

Toast to the Host!

- Gobble Gobble - 

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(free printable here)

I love Thanksgiving.  Everything about it.  Family, food, Fall weather, laughter, a reason to celebrate everything that you are thankful for in life, without having to buy presents.

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...there really is something magical about taking the back roads home... 

Turkey Day is upon us and let's admit it, it is the hostess with the mostest that pulls the day together for the fam and friends.

Although I did set my table for the holiday (you just never know when someone might stop in!) I will not be entertaining on Thursday.  However, while the hamster was turning with ideas, I came across some that I did incorporate.

Simple, Elegant, & Cheap.

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Thankful, Grateful & Blessed

Free printables.  Stumbled across these fun placecards, menus, and food labels (they also have cupcake toppers, but I don't bake... at least you wouldn't want me to).  Just print on white card stock, cut, and done.  How simple right?  Your guests now know what is on the menu, what that casserole is, and where they need to sit.

Next:

Bring the outdoors in.

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The next project involves tree branches, leaves, & gold spray paint ($4).  Gather these items, spray a coat on each, let them dry, and there ya have it.  Accent pieces for anything that needs to be decorated.  I added these to my buffet, dinning table, & bar area.

Side note: don't let the dogs help... they run off with the decorations... 

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Another super simple trick for an easy Thanksgiving.  All you need is two things: ribbon & utensils.  You can tie 'em in a knot, you can tie 'em in a bow... just don't throw them over your shoulder, there is a knife there.

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Being a host can be stressful.  You often spend so much time worrying about the house, food, invitations, etc. that you forget about yourself.  Don't.  You want to make sure you look just as fabulous as your house! 

Again, just like everything else, keep it simple.  Don't over think it, that is when time is wasted (and we all know being a host you have no time to waste!).  You want to be cute & comfy.

My go to is a poncho, suede leggings (aka "my fat pants"), & boots.

* * * 

Forever 21

$33

Each item you can find $35 or under, and you will be wearing them more than once I know! On Thanksgiving it is key to be comfy with all the running around and consumption of food.  These items will help you stay cute & comfy!

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H&M

$35

Boots.  Gotta love some good boots at a good price.  These can be found at 6pm.com, the kicker, these prices fluctuate daily so if you like it, buy it.

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6PM.com

$30  

From my porch to yours, I hope that everyone has a safe and fabulous Thanksgiving surrounded by the people, porches & food you love!

...gobble til you wobble... 

cheers!

-W
Like porch & palette on Facebook! 

My Real Job: Material Handing & Supply Chains

... that dreaded question...

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"So, what do you do?"

For some, that is easy.  For me, ehh.... 

Whether you are on a first date, at a wedding, hometown visit, or any social event you are bound to get asked, at least once, "what do you do?". 

This past weekend it was a wedding (& a fabulous one for sure, congrats Molly & Chris!). You are standing around with friends, family, new friends and strangers and the question is getting asked to the person next to you... Crap, you're next., it's time to get another vino. 

Those of us who are in the material handling and supply chain industry understand that feeling.  It is difficult to explain unless that other person speaks our language.  Conveyor belts, cranes, AGVS, hoist, casters, order fulfillment systems, reverse logistics services... huh?

* * * 

ProMat & MODEX

Sponsors of two industry-leading tradeshows

To this day, my sweet friends and family don't understand what it is I do.  Tradeshows, members, she travels some...? Something like that.  

Sure, MHI (my company) has our elevator speech, we are a leader in the industry:

"MHI is a trade association for the supply chain industry.  We offer education, networking and solution sourcing for our members, their customers and the industry as a whole through our programming and events."

... again, unless you speak the language... don't feel bad, you aren't the only one!  The definition of MHI starts with our members.  Who are they you ask?

You're in luck.  

* * * 

#iWorkInTheSupplyChain

Today we launched our #iWorkInTheSupplyChain campaign.  This campaign's goal is to bring awareness to the material handling and supply chain industry as a whole.

Manufacturers, systems integrators, consultants, publishers, 3PLs, software developers

These are my people.  Our industry is a family that is committed to helping others day in and day out.  One of our members in the campaign's video, #Iworkinthesupplychain, describes us as "secret agents of the industry".

I like it!  (makes our industry sound intriguing).

* * * 

MHI Young Professionals Network Emerging Leaders Conference

Chicago

Think of it this way.  

Online shopping.  Your cart is ready to go, just one click and your purchase is on its way home.  We have it from here.  Everything that touches your product from the time you checkout to when it arrives at your door step is part of our industry.  In a nutshell, anything within the four walls of a warehouse or distribution center, to the manufacturing facility is in our family tree.

Our members are a bit like the tooth fairy for our industry. Magical things happen, but you don't see it.   Whether you are in the pharmaceutical  or truck transportation, even finance and automotive industries, our presence is there.

* * * 

#iWorkInTheSupplyChain

The material handling and supply chain industry is not necessarily the sexist industry, but it sure is an interesting one!  I could spend days trying to explain, but with MHI's #iWorkInTheSupplyChain campaign, stories are coming in daily!  Just one click away.

February marks my 5 years with MHI.  How fortunate I am to have landed a job in one of the most fascinating industries that most are not aware of, but need on a day to day basis.

So mom & dad, friends and family, hope this helped with the understanding of what I've been spending the past 5 years doing! 

xo - 

Weldon Morris

Membership Coordinator 

MHI

Check out more MHI videos here! 

Favorite Day of the Week

after Friday. 

* * * 

... half way there... 

Happy wine Wednesday my friends, be the reason someone smiles today!

xo

-W

Call Me Old Fashion...

... but I think it is amazing when someone writes you a handwritten letter or note.


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"Just like fashion, stationary expresses oneself and everyone should have some."
 - Alexa Pulitzer

For me, it's the personal touch. Or how about just plain good manners.  Have texting and email wiped away our manners?  

Thank you letters.

* * * 

Who wants to email their appreciation? It's lazy. (although the spell check is clutch).  Writing thank you notes is not a Southern thing, it's a sign of good breeding.    Here is a little bit of  Notequette from Alexa Pulitzer:

1. First and foremost, when sending a thank you note for any gift or service, be prompt.

2. Every thank you note must directly reference what you are giving thanks for.

3. If sending thanks as a couple, the note should be written from one person, with reference to your partner.

4. Good news, any paper is fine. 

Special notes.

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Not all notes have to be lengthy.  Surprise your guest with a personalized welcome note or one on the dinner table (saw this idea & kept it in my pocket!).   Personalize it.  Make one feel warm inside.  It is like a hug on paper! 

 

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Just Because.


* * *

My friends and I are all at different stages in life.  Which means, we also are not all in the same city anymore.  The perfect excuse to send a little something & an excellent opportunity to keep a friendship strong.  Who doesn't like a pen pal?! 

The best ones are from family.  They are a keepsake for future generations.  These letters tell a story, they are history, and will keep our family values alive.

* * *

Priceless.  Handwritten letters from my grandmothers.  How lucky I am, at 29, to still have both my grandmothers... who still, to this day, even in their 90's, send me notes.  These notes that I can keep a lifetime.

Love Letters.


* * * 
...fellas, always remember...

OK, so it can be tough, but we love it.  It doesn't have to be everyday (they would lose meaning).  The best ones?  When we least expect it.... 

* * * 

Everyone, not just ladies, need note cards hanging around.  People in my life know me too well... you KNOW there was excitement when I received these as gifts. 

Some of my favorites can be found on:

Papyrus

Etsy

Let's not let the handwritten note go into extinction.  Bring your A game, elegance matters! 

Life is short.  Go write more handwritten letters.

xo
-W

Facebook: porch & palette

On the Hunt

... but not this kind of hunt... 

* * * 

Let me introduce you to my newest project... wait for it... 

$30. 

My Monday just got better! 

* * * 

This past weekend I realized that I'm not 100% excited with how my guest bedroom and office have turned out.  They both still need a little something something... 

Golden antlers.

* * *

This is when I need a man in my life.  And one that hunts.  This would be such a simple and easy decoration.  Throw some gold paint on those suckers & bam!  Instant beauty, that would look very nice on my new dresser.

Copper dimpled dishes.  

* * *

Copper is not a hot commodity in my house, but I'm starting to think it should be.  Normally you think of "copper dishes" and your mind goes straight to pots or vases.  While procrastinating (my house needed cleaning) I stumbled across these and had an instant connection. That's a sign, right?

Turkish inspiration.  

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* * * 

Never would have thought.  But I love. 

Ever since purchasing my Native necklace (if you haven't checked it out, you must!!) something has drawn me to the Turkish/native feel.  A look both my guest bedroom & office could use! 

Vintage trays.

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(& the stool)


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Oh the possibilities!  Bathrooms, wall decor, kitchens, center pieces, pretty much any room in any way.  Mixing a little old in with the new is always a nice touch.  I'm not really a flowery girl, but you just get lost in the colors!

Ginger jars.

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* * * 

Chinese inspired, American loved.  Loving the blue and white. Such an elegant clean feel that can pair well with rustic/vintage piece in a room.   Mix matching the different sizes and styles instantly adds character.  Now that was easy.

Bam.

* * *

Luckily, my "hunt" is just in time for the Metrolina Fall Extravaganza .  

Nov. 4th - 8th - this is one you don't want to miss! Charlotte, NC

* * *

Monday, why.

...happy hunting my friends... 

xo

-W

Facebook: porch & palette

Fall Dating

... Set the Date...

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Whether it is with your girlfriends, your boo thang, or just yourself, anyone - at anytime can enjoy a Fall date.  Single or taken, there is always something to do!

Need help?

You're in luck.  I came across another blog post that made some superb suggestions.

Couples/Girls nights are always a hit.

& these can be accomplished on a budget!

* * * 

• Have a board game night
• Visit a local arcade and play all the video games
• Go bowling with some family or friends
• Make lots of tailgating snacks and watch 'the big game'
• Have a bonfire party with with flannel blankets - & spiked cider, can't forget the cider.

Feeling festive?

* * * 

• Get lost in a corn maze with thermoses of your favorite hot drinks
• Visit a haunted house
• Make Haunted Gingerbread houses with Halloween colored candy and icing
• Pick out Halloween Costumes together
• Have a scary movie marathon - grab the wine!
• Go to a pumpkin patch 
• Pumpkin carving/decorating
• Go to a local harvest festival

Sometimes things are just better with company. 

* * * 

• Surprise him/her with a romantic hot air balloon ride (this is on my bucket list!!)
• Pizza in the park 
• Take popcorn and hot cider to a local community outdoor concert
• Write out a Fall Bucket List together - why not cross some off?!
• Cuddle by a fire with hot drinks
• Visit a new restaurant neither of you have ever tried
• Go to a zoo together, & don't leave out the little restaurant

Fresh air.  Everyone needs some crisp.fall.air.

* * * 

• Explore a local farmers market & buy a few new homemade treats
• Go for a bike ride along a scenic trail
• Visit your local visitors center and go on a historic tour of your own town
• Go to the County fair, and don't leave out the Ferris wheel
• Give little care packages or blankets to some homeless people 
• Rent a canoe or kayak and go enjoy all the Fall colors out on the water
• Go for a walk and or picnic out in the country where you can really see the changing season, Get lost in the season... 
• Go Geo-caching (a local treasure hunt where you use a GPS www.geocaching.com)

* * * 

Now that you have the date, it is time to...

... get dressed... 

* * * 

Let's start from the bottom up.

Cinderella's fancy slipper may be glass, but mine is a boot.

* * * 

$99 on Shoes Pie

Nothing says Fall like a good boot.  Knee high, bootie, or cowboy - one must have!  The tone of the boots above complement most any outfit (besides church, and maybe a funeral?).  One click and they are added to the cart.

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1969 modern stretch true skinny cords

My favorite go to cords for any Fall occasion are Gap's 1969 Modern Stretch Skinny Cords.  Let's just say I have them in several colors and could not wait for the weather to cool down.  I wear mine no matter what kind of "date" I have.

- 9 different colors (my favorite is the deep winter forest, Gap.com exclusive color!)

- Go now, they are on Sale for $41.96! 

Keep it basic. 

you can add sha-zam with accessories

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Forever 21 & on sale for $16

I love a neutral look.  It is a staple in my closet.  There are endless possibilities on how one can wear this style.  I'm all about having basic tops in every color.  The fun is in the accessories! 

Accessorize, one of my favorite pastimes.

* * * 

The Blanket Scarf 

found on Etsy, $20

The scarf. That scarf.  I'm sure the majority of women have at least one in their Fall wardrobe. Throw is around your shoulders and bam, instant spruce up!  & there are countless ways one can wear a scarf.

* * * 

Only $36 at Forever21

Keep it sweet & simple.  This chic and elegant find is the perfect pairing to any outfit.  & a good luck charm if you're going on a first date!

Top it off.

The Fall Fedora.

For $26, it is yours! Found at Nordstrom in several different colors. I recommend grabbing one for those chilly Fall date nights! 

Now that you have some ideas & I've dressed you, get out there and enjoy!  

Who knows, this could be your lucky season!   

Cheers & happy dating! 

xo - 

-W

Facebook: porch & palette