“The secret to staying young is to live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age.” (Lucille Ball, Actress & Comedienne, 1911-1989)

What is it about birthdays that cause one to reflect in such an intense manner? Is it the days that have passed and the experiences that they’ve brought with them…the good and the not-so-good…the anticipated as well as the unexpected…the celebrated and the “wish it would’ve gone better”? Or is it the thoughts of what was desired but never quite came to fruition?

Regardless…more about that later…

In addition to birthday celebrations, the last few months have been filled with just good ol’ fashion busy, as evidenced by the time which has passed since the last post. But busy is good. While it keeps a girl away from the keyboard, it also keeps her out of trouble…for the most part anyway.  

More specifically, the month of May brought with it a multitude of activities from one end of the spectrum to the next. Again, so many that there was hardly a minute to spare…or to rest…or even to breathe.  

Highlights included numerous corporate events. There were those that were on the more casual side. Think blue jeans and boot scootin’. And there were a few that were a bit more formal. Imagine, if you will, stilettos and sequins.

There was also a nonprofit fundraiser or two. One successfully celebrated “champions of hope” and their dedication to children within the community.  Another allowed guests to “sip, shop, and savor” in order to contribute to various organizations within the local area. And as a volunteer, what better way to work for a good cause than to help pour (and, of course, taste) wine?

There were a few sporting events. This meant fourth row floor seats to an NBA playoff game. Thanks again, Ms. Katie! Sometimes it really is just about being in the right place at the right time, huh? Also included were VIP passes to the Valero Texas Open. Who knew being such a “very important person” meant traipsing through the mud and ruining a brand new pair of fabulous flip flops?

In addition, there was a celebration to mark the last day of school as well as the Memorial Day holiday. These included river trips, sunscreen, barbecue, and more than a few adult beverages. 

And sprinkled in between all of this…there were weddings, committee meetings, site visits, business dinners and cocktail receptions. There were also a few GNOs or “girls’ night outs”. What better way to celebrate friends and enjoy just being…well, a girl? 

Now…back to the musings about birthdays.

In addition to everything else that May has going for it, it also includes numerous birthdays. Perhaps not the very most important, but still extremely signficant, is the birthday of Bleuprint itself. 

And with that, comes reflections of all that has passed throughout these last few years. There have been celebrations and victories…some great and some small. There have also been a few setbacks, but none that have been tragic enough to shake the core of what the business is built upon. And as for the contemplations of what is still to come? They bring with them hope and optimism and a great deal of determination. Also a gift is the newly acquired, and much desired, ability to just be still and be present. You know…in the moment?

So, all in all and above everything else…the future sure looks bright!

“If you want your life to be more rewarding, you have to change the way you think.” (Oprah Winfrey, Television Host, Producer, and Philanthropist, 1954 - )

So, once again, Bleu is a few days behind the curve. With a vow in January to do better about regular blog entries and keeping up with other such “day-to-day” tasks, we’ve found ourselves at March 1 wondering what the heck happened to the month of February. Shorter in days in comparison to the other 11 months of the year, it still tends to be quite a busy one.

There were multiple events and a plethora of meetings. There were also travels from one end of the state to the next. Additionally, there were chores…just the every day, nothing too exciting, is this what life is really all about chores that sometimes plague us all. 

So, with all of the hectic happenings and the lack of time to get done any of the things on our new year’s “to do” list, it would be easy to feel a little down or at least a bit ineffective. Still, given our resolution to be more “in the moment”, we’ve decided it of greater benefit to look differently at the month past and find the minor victories…the successes…the rewards amongst all of the chaos.

The aforementioned events and meetings? All involved some truly amazing individuals. Friends and strangers alike were brought together in a multitude of settings to accomplish both the seemingly insignificant (i.e., should we serve red or white wine with the given dinner menu) and the profound (i.e., how can we create the most memorable experience for attendees so that they will help us reach a fundraising goal that exceeds half a million dollars).  

The aforementioned travels? They were most definitely memorable! So much so, in fact, that our main mode of transportation has now been lovingly labeled the “crazy train”…and only with the best of intentions in mind. Amongst the long hours and many miles logged were moments of humor and, quite honestly, pure magic amongst “just us girls”. These included discussing matters from one end of the “seriousness spectrum” to the next…searching for rest stops along the way when the laughter and the tears got the best of us. There were also moments spent anxiously awaiting food in late night drive thrus, as well as looking for “mascara time” in front of mirrors when sharing an “oh, too small”, hotel room bathroom. (Some of the best, weren’t they, my female travel companions?)

And, in celebration of us making an effort to recognize our small rewards, why don’t YOU also take time in the month that lies ahead to…

FEEL well, by…buying wine with a screw-top cap so you don’t have to drink the whole bottle in one sitting…unless, of course, you’re sharing it with friends and making some magical memories of your own. In that case, buy the best bottle you can find and savor every last drop. Be sure to use your finest crystal goblets, too. Every moment that includes good wine and good friends should be considered a “special occassion”.

THINK well, by…taking a few moments to get a jump on the upcoming season. Start thinking about what specific items you will need to put in storage, or perhaps just a little more “out of the way”, to make room for the things that are more conducive to the warmer months. After all, spring break is just around the corner; so, sunscreen and flip flops will be much more important that that heavy wool sweater and winter scarf.

LIVE well, by…selecting an afternoon to declare a pajama day. Stay in them as long as possible and just putter around the house. Make a vow on this one day to NOT do anything that might be considered work or even close to “chore like”. Rent the sappy, romantic movies that you’ve been dying to see so you can join in the “meaningful conversation” the next time you’re with your girlfriends. Or, at least buy every gossip magazine that the store has to offer so as to catch up on “current events”. Also stock up on your very favorite foods and the most delicious drinks. After all, taking the day off is an event all unto itself.

“Time is limited.  So, I better wake up every morning fresh and know that I have just one chance to live this particular day right and to string my days together into a life of action and purpose.” (Lance Armstrong; American Cylclist, Seven Time Winner of the Tour de France, and Cancer Survivor; 1971 - )

Today is January 21…which, theoretically, is at least twenty days too late to be stating new year’s resolutions.  Nonetheless, Bleu is determined to put them “out there” in the universe so as to be held to a higher standard…more accountable…and less likely to slack off as the year continues to move forward.  Additionally, we’re making a committment to continue to share our thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for embracing the simple yet glorious nature of  “life”…even as the tediousness of the day-to-day taunts and tries to impede progress.

All that being said, we’re going to begin with three basic catergories…FEEL well, THINK well, LIVE well.  And, please keep in mind that not all of these, or perhaps even none of them, will be original or inspiring.  They will hopefully, however, still serve to spark a smile and perhaps even a glimmer of motivation to act…to move forward…to tranform…to learn…to grow. 

So, this month, why don’t you…  

FEEL well, by…baking something from scratch.  For once, try not to worry so much about calories and fat content.  Instead, think about making something with love…something that will fill the air with the the smells of childhood and stir a memory of special times.  Share the treat with your family and friends.  They’re certain to love it!

THINK well, by…purging your closet.  If you haven’t worn it in a year, you’re not going to.  Donate all of the discarded items to a worthy cause.  You’ll feel free…and more purposeful…guaranteed!

LIVE well, by…starting a journal.  Record your thoughts, your wishes, your dreams.  Then take a few moments to reflect.  You’re sure to discover things about yourself you may have neglected…or even forgotten completely.

“Happiness will come to you when it comes from you.”  (Ralph Marston,  Author & Speaker)

While life is full of celebrations and “big ticket” events, there are also those times (especially during the craziness of day-to-day life) when we have to pause and remind ourselves that it is the little moments that are often the most worth commemorating.  They are sometimes the “take your breath away” moments and they are other times really much simpler.  And, no big surprise here…they are more often than not the moments that we have to create for ourselves.

In light of this, Bleu suggests the following 10 ways to feel happier THIS instant:

Have a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie before noon or a cocktail before 5:00PM.

Make your next pedicure appointment during your lunch break and choose a funky yet fabulous color, like OPI’s “Ate Berries in the Canaries”, to brighten your day.

Close your eyes and relive your most magical kiss EVER.

Do an unpleasant thing that you wish to put off forever but can actually finish in a minute.

Overtip.

Facebook “stalk” the unattainable guys you had crushes on at the age of 15.  Half are overweight and balding…guaranteed!

Resist buying the $250 designer shoes, eating the third doughnut, or picking the same old fight.  Sometimes happiness is about what you DON’T do.

Try the tree pose.  Tough to worry about anything but keeling over…right, Jennie?

Think back one more time to heroic Captain Sully landing that plane gently and flawlessly on the Hudson River and, as a result, saving 155 lives.

SMILE!  Fake happiness always ends up feeling at least a little like the real thing.

“There shall be eternal summer in the grateful heart.” (Celia Thaxter, Writer & Poet, 1835 - 1894)

With Labor Day fast approaching, we are reminded that the “unofficial” end of summer is also upon us.  Instead of weekend picnics and celebratory parades, family barbecues and sinfully delicious beach reads, we will be bombarded with reminders of the changing seasons.  And, even though temperatures here in Texas will remain well into the 90’s (or even the 100’s) for a few more weeks, we’ll be exposed to article after article regarding:  recipes for feel-good, “cold-weather” comfort foods; activities such as Friday night football and tailgating parties; the best method for extending that summer glow; the proper way to pack away the cotton shorts and linen shirts and/or to air out the knitted sweaters and wool coats; and, of course, crafts and decorating ideas for the impending holiday season.

Before we move on and say “farewell” to yet another joyous summer, however, Bleu would like to take a few moments to appreciate all of the glory and greatness of the traditions that have littered these last few months, as well as the summers past and those still yet to come.

For us, summer is simply…

Flip Flops…Acceptable Almost Anywhere and Anytime

Fireflies

Family Get Togethers

Fresh Fruit…Especially with a Bowl of Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream

Margaritas…On the Patio and with Live Music Filling the Air

Bikinis

Playing in the Sprinkler

Popsicles

Pedicures…Topped Off with Only the Brightest, Boldest, and Most Outrageous of Colors

“Kiss My Face” SPF 30 Sunscreen

Bonnie Bell Lip Smackers

Dining Outdoors

Sleeping Late

Sunglasses…the Expensive, Classic Styles or the Cheap, Trendy Ones…Just so They’re Cool and Hip

Greatest Hit Albums…The Eagles, James Taylor, Jimmy Buffet, and Elton John to be Exact

Wherever we go, and whatever we do, this perfect storm of summer essentials instantly puts our minds and bodies at ease.  So, here’s to you, summer…thanks for the memories…until we meet again!

“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”  (Leonardo da Vinci, Italian Scientist and Sculptor, 1452 - 1519)

According to the most recent edition of Special Events “Eventline” publication, caterers are trying new tactics in order to keep cooking during the recession.  With corporate business showing the sharpest decline, some caterers are not only revamping the menus they offer for special events but also venturing into entirely new segments, particularly those which are simpler and more budget friendly.

Regardless of the state of the economy, one caterer who has always been mindful of the joy which can be found from those things which are less complicated is Jan Green, Executive Chef and Owner of Jan Unlimited Catering. 

Jan is a phenomenal chef and just an overall fun person.  She started her company in May of 1999 after a celebration that her mother organized for her father.  The trays of cold cuts and various cheeses ordered from a local smokehouse inspired Jan to put her passion and talents to work to prove that she could “do it better”.  With that, she called everyone she knew to tell them of her decision; and, within two weeks, she had fourteen orders.  A business was born!

Jan says that her favorite thing about catering is the people that she gets to meet and be with on some of the most special occassions of their lives…weddings, birthdays, baptisms, anniversaries, graduations, and even funerals. 

Again, Jan is not only an amazing chef but also one who can appreciate those things in life which are good and true and simple. 

And, as an example, she posted the following article to her “Party Lines” publication just a few weeks ago…

“It used to be that shopping for spaghetti was easy.  Now that pasta aisles of grocery stores are filled with so many choices it can give you a reason to pause.  ‘Made with whole grains’ is the new mantra on pasta packaging, so we decided to get reaquainted with the whole-grain pasta lineup.  After tasting a couple dozen, we were inspired by the variety of flavors, shapes, textures, and prices.  Where most refined-grained pastas (your basic ‘white’ variety) are similar in taste, today’s whole-grain pastas provide a range of flavor profiles.  We identified everything from nutty, buttery, and sweet notes to substantial, wheaty, and earthy components.  In short, whole-grain pastas have come a long way.  The ones you’ll see most often include:

Whole-Wheat Pasta:  Most are made from whole durum or enriched semolina flour, which is considered best for pasta making because of its higher protein and gluten content.  Pastas that are ‘100% whole wheat’ are hearty and offer the most health benefit.

Multi-Grain Pasta:  This is no necessarily an indicator of whole grains unless ome of the multiple grains used are labeled as ‘whole’.  Many multi-grain pastas are made from a mix of whole and refined grains.  Even in small doses, whole grains can reduce the risk of heart disease, some cancers, and diabetes.

Brown-Rice Pasta:  These whole-grain pastas are wheat- and gluten-free.  Most are mild in flavor and cook very quickly. 

Enriched with Omega-3:  Pastas with this claim usually include flaxseed for extra heart health. 

Oh, how I long for the days of my youth when I thought the only pastas were macaroni and spaghetti.  I didn’t even know the word ‘pasta’ existed.  The simple life…wasn’t it grand?!?!”

Yes, Jan…it was grand…and still is.  Thanks for helping us to remember.

“The person we believe ourselves to be will always act in a manner consistent with our self image.”  (Brian Tracy, Author, 1944 - )

As previously promised, we’re using the next few posts to revisit some of our favorite contributed articles from some of our favorite professional partners.  The following may indeed be our very favorite of them all.

Contributed by Chasity Furse, our friend at Studio 423 Photography (http://studio423photo.com/), the article features tips and tricks for taking a self portrait.  Chasity brands them the “necessary evil”, and herself admits to shying away from the idea in general, but challenges that we should all be “documenting not only our lives but our selves”. 

And, if anyone would know how best to do so, it’s Chasity.  She’s an amazing photographer AND just an overall spectacular person.  If you haven’t had a chance to check out her portfolio…you must…it really is special.  If you haven’t had the opportunity to work with her…you need to…she is the ultimate talent.  And, if you haven’t yet had a moment to enjoy her fabulous sense of humor…you really should… just read on…

“In a recent converstion with a friend, I was told that I should “post more photos on Facebook”.  I thought it odd because, if you’re my “friend” on Facebook, you are bombarded with endless photos…of my clients, my children, my husband, my extended family, my friends, my travels, and more often than not, endless shots of randomness like a recent one of “Bubble Gum Alley” in Seattle.  As the conversation progressed, it was established that yes, although I have many photos that portray my life, I don’t have many photos of my self.  Sure there’s an occasional shot of me with any of the aforementioned subjects, but rarely is there one single photo of just me. 

So, why is that we really don’t take the time to indulge ourselves and, in this case, other people of interest, with an occasional self portrait?  (This is a rhetorical question.  I don’t care to hear any valid reason or excuse any of you actually have to offer here.)  The truth of the matter is, we are all too wrapped up in our self loathing and obsessive mindsets that dictate to us all of the reasons we should not be photographing ourselves.  Even those rare few who don’t mind having their photo taken alone, without a security object beside them hoping to divert the attention of curious onlookers, still question whether we should share those photos with others.  Too often, they are wondering what “others” might think if they are, in fact, shared with the world.

Regardless what group you fall into, the fact remains that we all should be documenting not only our lives but our selves.  And we should embrace the fact that people actually do and will care what we actually looked like when we occupied the earth!  Really?  Yea, really!  I know it’s a hard concept to wrap your minds around, but I promise I’m not misleading you.

Taking a self portrait is actually quite painless once you’ve let go of all the insane ideas you have about it.  You know, like how much weight you should lose, how much you hate your hair since you cut it all off last summer in an effort to “sass it up a bit”, how your profile is terrible and you should’ve had that nose job in college instead of springing for the tickets to the Stones concert, or how you have nothing to wear…never mind the empty shopping bags neatly tucked away in your closet hoping to be concealed forever from your husband.  Okay, so those are just my excuses but you all know you have your own.

If you own a camera, get it out, along with your owner’s manual, because let’s face it, you obviously will not know how to use the self timer and you’re going to need to figure that out first.  Make sure you have some decent natural light by sitting in a room with a window or two.  Situate yourself somewhere you are comfortable, and mount your camera on a tripod (or a stack of Vogue…or Maxim if you’re a guy), and press the shutter button.  It’s really that easy.  Don’t spend hours perfecting it.  I mean, make sure you don’t have anything in your teeth and don’t flaunt your “Something About Mary” hair; but, don’t take all day to get yourself ready.  Now, upload that puppy to your photo lab of choice and print out at least one (we’re starting small here).  Take it, mat it, and stick it in a frame.  Then, put it by your bed.  Look at it every night before you go to sleep, and remind yourself that you are an interesting, worthwhile being that deserves to be seen and not only heard.  After you’ve convinced yourself, you can reprint it or post it online for the world to see.  Again, they really do care.  They like you, and they think you rock!  Plus, they’ll be totally jealous that you actually had the nerve to do it.

Lastly, for those of you who are really digging the self portrait idea and want to step it up a bit, contact your favorite professional photographer (I happen to know a great one!), and schedule a session.  They really can be fun.  You will never regret it; and, most importantly, the people in your life will be forever grateful.  And yes, they will think you rock!”

See, told you’d enjoy Chasity’s insight and sense of humor!  And, regarding that special portfolio of hers…check out just a few samples below…

“America is a willingness of the heart.”  (F. Scott Fitzgerald, Author, 1896 - 1940)

As we approach the Fourth of July, it’s impossible not to pause and ponder what our great nation is all about.  Quite obviously, it means something different to all… to those who are fortunate enough to be born as citizens of the country, as well as to those who must observe it from afar…to those who have sacrificed tremendously for the freedoms that are inherent to its make up, as well as to those who are still searching for the definition of true patriotism.

Regardless, there are certain things that have historically represented America and that speak to most anyone who has appreciation for the red, white, and “bleu”.  So, with a light-hearted spirit and recognition that America means much more than just hot dogs (150 million…the number that were eaten during last year’s celebration!) and fireworks (14,000…the estimated number of displays that will take place to celebrate this year’s holiday!), we’ve compiled a brief list.   

Nothing says America like…

The Statue of Liberty

Freedom of Speech

Family

The Games of “Life” and “Monopoly”

Pizza

Popsicles

The Pledge of Allegiance

Loyalty

Barbie

Bon Jovi

Cowboy Boots

MTV

Plymouth Rock

Elvis Presley

Backyard Picnics

Blue Jeans and a Plain White T

Las Vegas

The Liberty Bell

Oprah

Parades

Drive Ins

Road Trips

Bar-B-Que (from Texas, of course!)

“America”, by Neil Diamond

“The young are in a condition like permanent intoxication, because youth is sweet and they are growing.”  (Aristotle, Philosopher, 384BC - 322BC)

Our “little miss sunshine” is turning four.  And, what better way to celebrate this brilliant ray of light than with a bright and glorious gathering of family and friends.

The festivities, while splendid, were simple and sweet.   Nothing fussy or overdone…just a perfect illustration of what it means to focus on the things that matter most.

There were butterflies dressed in purple polka dots and patten leather mary janes, lady bugs adorned with hair bows and charming smiles, and great big sunflowers in bright hues of yellow and orange.  Overall, it was a day filled with sunshine, laughter, and an abundance of love.

To help set the tone for the event, the amazing team at Moon Mippy (http://www.moonmippyonline.com/) assisted in designing delightful custom invitations.  With patience and fabulous insight, they helped select, plan, and print the cards….and all within less than 48 hours!  Thanks, Linda, et al.  Your services are invaluable…as well as perfect for the planner who swears she isn’t going to do formal invitations…and then, at the very last minute, changes her mind. 

Also remarkable in the way of resources is the team at Cupcake Couture (http://www.cupcakecouturesa.com/).  With just a hint of direction regarding color and theme, they designed the most delectable treats…gorgeous in form and fabulous in flavor.  In addition to the white and strawberry selected for our celebration, they also offer 14 other scrumptious options…lemon and orange, chocolate and coconut, buttercream and carrot…YUMMY!   Bought over the counter at one of their two locations, or custom ordered with a specific occasion in mind, the result will be a magnificently delicious experience.  Thanks, Nichole.  You’re right…cupcakes really do = smiles!

Instead of the trendy custom candy bar, there was a much more traditional (although slightly cliche!) pinata.   In the form of a butterfly and filled with way too much candy, it was enjoyed by both the young and the “young at heart”.

In addition to the sugary treats, the children left with bags full of blinged out butterfly favors and the adults with custom CDs created with a playlist of happy, “sunshine-y” selections.  (Think Beach Boys and Sheryl Crow!)

And, even in spite of the sweltering 100+ degree weather, it was a backyard bash filled with joy…all in all, an amazing day…”intoxicating” and, again, reflective of the things that matter most. 

Oh, how sweet it is!

“Women are afraid of mice and murder…and of very little in between.”  (Mignon McLaughlin, American Journalist & Author, 1913 - 1983)

Bleu has had the honor of working with many amazing women throughout the past few years.  There are times, however, when one stands apart from all of the others.  

Most recently, that “one” has actually been the leader of a group of women.  For the past year, she has served as the president of the local chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO).  Having the opportunity to be a member of this amazing organization has been both enlightening and insightful…and, having the chance to work with Cheryl Cook (http://promoneyinc.com/) has been even more so.  What a woman!

Upon first meeting Cheryl, you know that she is  a WOMAN amongst women.  She welcomes you with her warm smile and graceful ways; and, it takes only a short time to learn that her sense of style goes way beyond her fabulous “red stilettos”.  She is both strong and sensible…brave and beautiful…intelligent and amusing.  What a woman!

And, her stories…oh, what tales she has to tell!  Each and every one is about adventure and exploration…and, of course, the festive characters encountered along the way.  There are accounts of scuba diving and bike riding, cross country travels with barely a destination in mind, and a life that has been lived just for the sake of living it.  And, with it all, Cheryl has grown tremendously and gained incredible wisdom…and, she’s even managed to find her true love, too.  What a woman!

Last week, NAWBO recognized Cheryl at their Annual Leadership and Partner Gala.  Bleu was honored to have a seat at her table and thrilled to help celebrate the ocassion.  And, while Cheryl’s term as president is now complete, her legacy of leadership will live on and continue to be an inspiration.  All together now…WHAT A WOMAN!