Depending on the weather outside your door and your frame of mind, grab something warm or cool to drink and let’s chat a while. On the final day of each month I like to step aside from my normal fashion and beauty posts just a bit so we can catch up on a more personal basis. You have no idea how much I’d love to sit down with each of you for a personal conversation, but this will suffice for now. And I definitely invite you to join the conversation by sharing a little about your goings on in the comments section below. Welcome to Coffee with Kay!
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Just to stretch myself and give me a little bit of structure here – because I thrive on structure – I attempt to share ten little tidbits with you each month. Those ten things may be new projects I’ve started, lessons I’ve learned, purchases I’ve made, places I’ve been, mistakes I’ve made…you name it. But these are in no particular order. Ask my husband, I tend to jump all over the place in conversation. And that’s sort of how these lists go, too!
#1 – We’ve made huge headway on Abigail and Andrew’s upcoming wedding.
If you’re new here, my daughter Abigail, who lives in Atlanta and works parttime for me and parttime elsewhere, is engaged to be married to the wonderful Andrew on May 15, 2022. Yep. That’s less than two months away!
They just got engaged right after Thanksgiving in Cannon Beach, Oregon. So of course we’ve had to work fast and efficiently to plan for this wedding. I tell you what, having a somewhat older bride and groom has been a blessing. They’re in their late 20s, so Abigail and Andrew have really done most of the leg work.
But I flew down to Georgia a couple of weeks ago to attend Abigail’s two bridal showers and to do other wedding things with them. We did the final walk-through of the venue, along with the florist, and that was so helpful. Abigail and I picked up her wedding gown one afternoon and then took it to a seamstress for alterations on another day. And Abigail’s wedding day makeup artist did her trial makeup session while I was there, too. I feel like we accomplished so much. And really, it was all a blast.
By the way, the wedding preparations continue! Today Abby and I are choosing a pretty bracelet from Kendra Scott to give to each of her bridesmaids. They’re having a great Buy More Save More Spring event.
#2 – Abigail’s Bridal showers were such a blessing.
I was absolutely amazed at how much I enjoyed Abby’s showers. They were both hosted in the homes of dear friends of mine, and I just loved that. At the first shower we had friends of Abby’s, mine, my mother’s and Andrew’s mother, Debbie. The shower just oozed friendship!
Both sets of hostesses made everything so nice for us. They had decorated with photos of Abigail and Andrew. And the food was all scrumptious, of course. They had the most delicious, delicate petite fours at the second shower and these darling cookies at the first one.
Abigail and Andrew received so many lovely gifts. They’ve registered at Bed Bath and Beyond, Pottery Barn, Amazon, Macy’s and Target.
But I chose to give Abigail something a little more personal. I knew she needed some things for her honeymoon. So I gave her a large Bagsmart Toiletry Bag at the first shower and this travel tote at the second. I tucked a pretty negligée and robe into the bottom portion of the tote!
At the end of each of the showers Andrew showed up with flowers for his lady and the hostess. Then they packed up the gifts and took them to his house, where they will live after the wedding.
Abigail and I, as well as my mother and Andrew’s mom Debbie, were so delighted with the turn out and the graciousness of these showers. It was such a blessing to have others join in our celebration through these lovely events. It made everything seem that much more real. I would show more photos, but of course I don’t have those people’s permission. But suffice it to say we have the loveliest friends!
#3 – At the shower, I did get to meet “in real life” a fellow blogger, Rhoda.
It just so happens that Rhoda of Southern Hospitality is a good friend of Debbie, Andrew’s mom. She’s known the family for years. Rhoda and I have corresponded by email and Instagram a good bit in the past, so it was lovely to meet her at the first shower.
I think we even did a blog post link up with some other bloggers a couple of years ago. Rhoda does have some fashion posts on her blog and Instagram, but she primarily shares home decor. She has a lovely home and decorates with a fresh, traditional Southern style. If you’re not following her already, I definitely suggest you check out her blog and her Instagram account. I love following her on her Instagram stories. Oh, and as you can tell from the photo above, Rhoda is absolutely gorgeous!
#4 – Don’t hate me, but…
I’m thinking about adding some color to my hair again. Or at least I’m talking to my hairdresser about it tomorrow at my haircut appointment. I think maybe my hair just isn’t really ready to go grey yet. It’s at this weird in between stage where it’s half blond and half grey, so it just looks very dull to me.
So yeah, I think I may at least add some highlights again. That may be enough to brighten it up some. I’m not really asking for opinions on this, by the way. But just letting you know my thoughts. Ha!
#5 – We’re officially old.
That’s what James and I have been saying among ourselves lately as we’ve really taken to bird watching. Ha! I told my son about our hobby the other day and he heartily agreed that we are indeed old.
Anyhow, I wanted to share some of the developments in our bird watching. I came home from Georgia to discover that James had added this bluebird house to our little bird sanctuary.
And sure enough we’ve been having bluebirds checking it out. We’re not sure that any have chosen to nest in it yet, but they’ve been scouting it out. You can see just a little bit of one of the bluebirds in the rough photo below that I took from our window one day this past week.
I love bluebirds. They’re my favorite. But we’re also seeing lots of cardinals, robins, woodpeckers, and other beautiful birds in our backyard these days.
#6 – In fact, we’re seeing them better these days.
James had also purchased some binoculars for us while I was away. Because you need to set the binoculars for each person individually and we want to be able to grab them at any moment to see what’s going on out there…we each have a different pair. I’m using the Carson Compact Waterproof High Definition Binoculars below.
And James is using the Vortex Optics Crossfire HD Binoculars. We really like both pair equally, but we just wanted our individual binoculars to look different so we could easily identify them. They really have all the same important features – such as a wide field of vision, 8x power (for less shakiness) and a lens size that allows more light for early morning and evening viewing – but the more compact Carsons feel really nice to me. In the end, you want binoculars that feel good in your hands.
Right now we’ve just been using our binoculars at our kitchen window. But they both came with travel cases so we will get out and about with them soon.
#7 – Speaking of vision…
My sweet friend Michelle gifted me the sweetest book a few months ago, and I have been enjoying it every morning during my quiet time. I read one or two of the Puritan prayers from The Valley of Vision each morning.
The book contains the elegant prayers of such Puritans as John Bunyan, Isaac Watts, David Brainerd, Augustus Toplady, and Charles Spurgeon. They are so thought provoking and really prompt me to deeper, more contemplative prayer. I don’t think anything has enriched my prayer life quite like this little book. I have the bonded leather version of The Valley of Vision, but I can’t find that to link to. You may find it is a Christian bookstore, however. I treasure this sweet gift.
#8 – I’m ready to start cooking…and eating!
Another sweet friend recently sent me a new cookbook, Georgia Church Suppers. Oh my word! It is full of the yummiest sounding recipes. I cannot wait to get started cooking some of them. But it will have to wait at least a couple of months because…
#9 – James and I are really losing weight!
Now I intentionally got off the wagon a little when I went home to Georgia, because I wanted to enjoy the showers and some fun outings with Abby.
But otherwise we have really been working hard to get in our best shape for the wedding. I’m so glad James is fully on board now. He didn’t really determine to buckle down until after our vacation to Florida. But ever since we’ve been home he has been amazingly, super committed to healthy eating and exercise. And he is doing so well. Of course he’s dropped about 10 pounds in just a few weeks, being a man and all. Ha! But I don’t mind that mine is coming off more slowly. I’m just so proud of him and for him. And having him do this with me makes it so much easier.
Someone asked recently what exactly we’re doing to lose weight. We’re doing intermittent fasting (as we have for several years now), eating few to no processed foods, eating a very protein-rich, fiber-rich balanced diet and exercising regularly. He’s started running again and I’ve really buckled down in my cardio and weight training workouts with FASTer Way to Fat Loss.
#10 – And that leads me to my upcoming videos…
This weekend we’re shooting the next batch of YouTube videos. That is an all day, exhausting affair! But we love it. Anyhow I thought I’d share with you briefly a little about what’s coming on my YouTube channel.
I’m taping a collaboration video for next week with the beautiful, lovely Angela Mashelle. I am beyond excited about this video. We’ll both be sharing 7 Easy Spring Outfits. So fun! But I will be posting the video next Thursday instead of my usual Wednesday. That’s when Angela usually posts, so I’m joining her at that time slot for next week. Go ahead and check her out. And if you do, be sure to leave her a comment and tell her I sent you.
I’m also taping a video about intermittent fasting, spring accessories to update your looks and a bodycare refresh with Walmart. Fun!
#bonus – Oh! And one more thing…
Dressed for My Day is getting a major makeover. Whoo hoo! I had a training meeting yesterday with the company that is doing the website redesign and we’re all GO! They’ll be switching us over in the next couple of weeks. When you first notice that the website looks different – and you will notice – give it a couple of days. I’ll certainly need to make a few tweaks at first. But you’re going to love it!
Thank you for joining me.
Thank you so much for joining me for coffee today. I do hate that so far this conversation has been one-sided. But I’d love to hear from you, too. You don’t have to share ten things. But if you’d like to respond to something I shared or even tell me some thing or two that you’ve been doing this month, I’d truly love to read your comments. And unless you ask me a question I probably won’t reply today. I’ve talked enough! You are a blessing to me. I hope you enjoyed this little visit and that it will be something we all look forward to each month.
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Blessed for My Day
Easter is fast approaching. This year it falls on April 17, so it’s less than a month away. I think this is a good time to begin preparing our hearts and minds for the somber reflection of Good Friday (April 15) and the joyful celebration of Christ’s resurrection the following Sunday. Of course, if you observe Lent you may have already begun to do that. But if not I hope you’ll join me in meditating on scriptures that remind us of the price paid and the victories won by Christ’s death, burial and resurrection.
But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. ~ Isaiah 53:5-6
Hi Kay, well a hot cup of coffee is right on target here in Madison WI where it has been snowing all morning. Abigail is a delight… must follow in her mother’s footsteps. Yes, my son said the same thing several years ago when I got interested in bird watching. Now he gives me bird-related gifts at Christmas and birthdays! Ha! The musical he wrote that is still playing in London might go to the West End. Still keeping our fingers crossed. Have a great day and thank you always for your fun and informative posts.
Rhoda and Kay – two of my favorite bloggers! Humble sweet ladies, GOD Bless each of you!
I enjoy your posts and especially you Blessed for my day portion.
Looking forward to your collaboration with Angela. I have watched many of her You Tube videos. She and her husband have a delightful banter during the videos sometimes.
Kay,
I laughed at the ‘We’re old” comment! I just recently and to my surprise figured out that I turn 65 in November! How did that happen? Guess I am old too!
I enjoy the bird watching myself especially when I sit on the deck in the summer.
Have so much fun that the wedding!
They are an adorable couple. Thank you for sharing! I really enjoy your posts. You are such a delight and encourager!
Hi Kaye, I think I’m in a similar place with my hair. I’m anxious to see what you do. My last visit I got highlights and lowlights to match my natural color and blend with some gray. I think I’ll be ready for a little more blonde next time. I do space out coloring as far as I can to save money.😂
Oh my goodness, Kay!! I have the exact same cuckoo clock that is hanging on the wall in the picture behind Abigail and Andrew under tidbit #2. My dad served in the Korean War. While there, he traveled to Germany and brought that clock home with him. It no longer works, but I still have it hanging on my wall!
Hmm. That is in the home of my friend Michelle. I know her sister lived in Germany for a while. I wonder if they got it there.
I bet they did! Those are made in Germany.
Yep. That’s Black Forest cuckoo clock! Beautiful!
I’m enjoying my coffee now as it is still a little chilly in the mornings. I’m up and dressed to help a neighbor and felow sister in Christ to the doctor. she is struggling with severe depression, anxiety, and even suicidal thoughts. ai[ve been thru many scriptures with her and she certainly has acknowledged they help. but the second somthing goes haywire, she back to the old seld. I’m not sure I’m qualified for this level of counseling anfd really need to talk with our pastors to get her the help she needs; would you please prray foe my friend, Lisa. Pray for me as well that God will give me the right worlds to say!
Praying right now, Jan. Just being there for her is tremendous I’m sure. Bless you.
Good morning Kay! I am still sipping on my mug of coffee. Oh how I enjoyed hearing more about the bridal showers. That is a great picture of Abigail and Andrew! He sounds like a really great guy and one that you are thrilled to have become part of your family. What line of work is he in? We have numerous bird feeders in our front and back yard, and have a lot of birds all year long. We don’t have an bird houses out, but I know that they would have to be checked regularly for snakes, so that’s just as well. We have lots of safe places where they have built nests in the past, including a molded pocket on our golf cart. We also enjoy watching the fox squirrels, which I had never seen until we moved to south GA. Good luck with your hair! I know that you want it to look it’s best in May, and I don’t blame you one bit. Have a beautiful day!
Hi Ginger. Andrew works for Home Depot at their corporate office. Not sure I could explain his position accurately though.
Love the BFMD. Yes, Easter is just around the corner and we need to reflect on what this Holiday is all about. Amen
Enjoyed the coffee with you this morning. Abigail is a beautiful young woman and I am so happy for her and Andrew.
Bless them. Really nice pictures of them and the showers.
Anxious to see your new makeover on the blog. Enjoy your post and look forward to reading every day but Sunday when you take the day off. Bless you.
I too am on a weight loss path. I have been trying so hard to stick to a regime and not be tempted by treats and especially ice cream. My downfall. lol
Going to check out the Southern Hospitality blog. Intrigues me.
When our two oldest daughters got married they handled everything for the wedding. I’ve helped with planning, decorating, and cooking for events in our church for years; and though I loved it, they wanted me to come to their weddings with nothing to do but enjoy them. Weddings are so exciting, aren’t they? I’m eager to see the pictures!
Our news? I’ve been without a fully functional kitchen for a year, as my husband has been renovating it in the pockets of time he can find in his packed days. It looks like next weekend I will finally be able to move back into my kitchen! This past year has been a lesson in thankfulness, contentment, patience, and compassion (for my husband); but I will be glad to be able to use my kitchen again.
Oh my goodness! Well good for him…and for you! Enjoy!
Hi! I just wanted to say not only do I enjoy your current blogs, I also love to read your WordPress blogs from the past on kayharms.com! I think I am about 10 years behind you (I’m 46 with 2 daughters, 19 and 16), and so many things you talk about there are so relevant to my life now. My husband and I met in high school and, while we have always lived in NC, we have moved around the state a few times. I guess that’s why I love reading about your different moves with your family and the gradual adjusting that always takes some time. Anyway, just wanted to let you know even those blog posts from 10 or so years ago are being enjoyed. Thank you!
I’m so glad you’re enjoying those Erin. Every once in a while I think I’ll start writing there again, but I’m not sure I can handle the load. But I may pop one in again occasionally soon.
Hi–following along with hot coffee in the Windy City where we are having a “wintry mix” this morning–not exactly ready for Spring fashions yet! I love to hear about the wedding preparations because my daughter is getting married on April 30–just a couple of weeks before your darling Abigail. Getting old is a state of mind–the bird watching sounds like a great activity. I took up bridge about ten years ago, which made me sound like an old lady, but I really like it and I will definitely continue to add more activities as I transition into retirement in the next few years. I really enjoy the community you’ve created here, Kay, and I appreciate all your hard work.
Kay, so happy for Abigail and Andrew! They look like they are made for each other!
I always look forward to your email each day and it’s so fun to learn more about you and your lovely family. Such exciting times as you look forward to your daughter’s wedding! I love that you’re reading “The Valley of Vision.” It is such a great book of prayers! My pastor (Alistair Begg) has often read some of those prayers in our worship services and they are such an encouragement! Blessings to you, sweet friend😊.
I have also recently developed an interest in birds. I love sitting on the porch and identifying the bird by its call, using my bird app. I used to be afraid of birds (thank you Alfred Hitchcock), but now I think they’re fascinating.
What a delight reading about the upcoming wedding. Your daughter is stunning! Takes after her mom! I laughed about the bird watching. My husband and I have begun doing that also! It is so peaceful sitting on our front porch watching them in their beauty. Our God is certainly the BEST artist!
Hello Kay, greetings from Maxville, Ontario, Canada!
All your family news is terrific and I agree with so many of the other respondents.
But on another subject, keep your hair blonde- you look absolutely fantastic. I know there seems to be a trend to “go grey”, but some of us “blondies” are sImply not suited to grey. And, I find blonde more youthful on many women. I’m sure you and your stylist will come to something fabulous- style, cut and colour-for you.
Have you chosen a MOTB dress, yet? Nordstrom has some gorgeous creations!
Warmest regards,
Jani
Hi Jani. Thank you. Yes, I got my dress at Teri Jon In fact I’m taking it for alterations (just a hem) today.
Looking forward to your new website. I hope it has a Search Feature!!!!
Also, I am looking forward to see what you do with your hair! I know you’ll want it to look perfect for all of those Mother of the Bride wedding photos!
Speaking of wedding, I’d love for you to share WHICH Kendra Scott bracelets you end up picking out for bridesmaid gifts. I’m always terrified to buy jewelry gifts for others.
Hi Mary Beth. We’re getting these https://shopstyle.it/l/bFGdF
We live in the country and have bluebird houses. I have sat for hours just watching the male and female take turns flying off to get food for the babies. One would guard the nest while the other was away. And they would take turns.
I have always enjoyed watching the birds. (Except maybe the mockingbirds who can be mean to other birds!)
(and yes I’m old) 🙂
We have had a mountain bluebird visiting our area. They live at higher elevations in the western US and Canada. He is a gorgeous bird! I haven’t actually seen him, but his picture has been in the newspaper. I live in Wilmington, NC.
Hello Kay, I do enjoy your monthly chats and getting to know you better .on YouTube I’ve learned so much about how to dress and recently purchased 2blazers at Talbots outlets( because I had none) and thought of you the whole time.
Love reading about wedding /shower plans and your dear daughter Abigail and her handsome prince Andrew. So happy for all of you.
When our oldest (and only married son )and fiancé were planning their wedding in 2013, I secured a personal trainer to get ready … I remember going to my first session on Earth day and he asked when the wedding was I said it is two months away. He was quite surprised and laughed saying well that doesn’t give us very long but will do what we can LOL
Thanks for all you do!
Kay,
Your Coffee with Kay is my favorite of yours each month. I have the same travel tote, only in a pale pink/cream color. It holds so much more than most do. Weddings are so fun, especially when the bride and groom are in their late 20’s or early 30’s and more sure of who they are and what they want. Enjoy all the moments!
Isn’t the 16/8 eating window fantastic? and one seldom gets hungry. I often can only eat two meals. and love going to sleep on an empty stomach.
Many blessings,
Phyliss
Kay,
I so enjoyed your Coffee With Kay! It was coffee for me today…still a bit chilly here in Estes Park, Colorado. I did get out to pick up broken branches and twigs from high winds over the past few months.
Your daughter, Abigail, is beautiful…just like her momma!
I have purchased a few items recommended by you…shoes, body cream, jeans, etc. I love that you give a variety of price ranges for items.
Good for you and James on your journey for losing weight. Exercise ALWAYS gives you MORE energy!
Thank you for all you do for us gals. God bless you and keep you,
Vickie
Kay, I’m so happy for you during the wedding festivities! We have two daughters. I so enjoyed the planning, the partying and especially their actual wedding days. It was so much fun! ENJOY every minute ♥️♥️♥️
Kay,
Yes, enjoy this truly joyous time in your family’s life!
I am so grateful that I found your blog. I have coffee with you often during the week and have taken quite a few of your recommendations for how I’m dressing these days. And your Christian sensibilities are just frosting on the cake.
I know you’re not looking for opinions on your hair so I’ll leave an “observation” – add a little color for the wedding photos and keep transitioning after. I love grey hair but those photos just need a little oomph in hair and makeup. Either way, you’re going to look beautiful!
Hi Kay!
I look so forward to all of your posts and videos!! You are truly inspiring and uplifting! Congratulations on your You Tube award of “Women on the Rise”. You are so very deserving of this! Also, congratulations on all of your upcoming celebrations!
Congratulations on the upcoming marriage of your daughter. I am thrilled for you.This is such a precious time for a mother and daughter. You will treasure all of the memories made while planning, preparing for and celebrating the day. I know I did/do. God bless.
Hello Kay, I enjoy so much these coffee posts. And all your videos. I’m so happy for Abigaïl. Would you pray for my children. Two are singles and I would be so happy they meet someone. The third one has been married for 3 years. I wish they have a baby. Sorry for my poor English. I write from France. Many thanks, Kay.
Another hair observation … I have about 10 years on you, and very dark hair. I tried transitioning to a lighter, warmer brown five or so years ago, but I am very fair and it didn’t work. I accidently discovered a box hair dye (I know, I know!) called “Cool Amethyst” and I.love.it. My gray is purple, and the rest of my hair remains its natural dark color.
I’m not commenting on your hair color as you asked, but for me, I know it’s time to add some life to my hair when I keep adding more blush when I do my makeup. It may sound odd, but when I have the right hair color, I need less makeup. Does anyone else feel this way?
Hi, Kay!
Thank you for sharing all of the excitement around Abigail’s wedding! I’m sure you all are so excited for the actual day!!
And speaking of birdwatching, have you and James gone eagle watching yet? Eagles have made a wonderful comeback in Ohio and Kentucky. We live on the Ohio River and enjoy finding the nests then finding a good viewing spot and watching. Have seen 4 eagles at one time…so majestic! I’m going to splurge on new binoculars now, too! 😉
Thanks for all of your clothing tips and styling. I always feel special when I wear something you have recommended. Have a wonderful weekend.
Kay–I love your fashion blog posts and videos, but I think these posts might be my very favorite! The bridal showers look lovely! I say, do whatever you want with the color of your hair! It’s so personal and everyone is different with their coloring and what looks best! I’d love to know where you got the flower pot on your porch beside you in the rocking chair? It is beautiful!
I live in the country near KC, MO and can relate to loving nature and birds. I love my Purple Martins. They migrate from the Amazon every year to mate and raise their young. A portion of them come back to the same place/nests they were raised in. Mine have come back the same day the past 3 years (March 28). They love people and have such a unique trill. On another note, I am going to order a copy of the Valley of Vision. I enjoy CH Spurgeon. Thank you for sharing.
I love my salt and pepper hair but if it didn’t make me feel good, I would change it immediately for something that made me feel beautiful and confident. We choose our own colour palettes, we have individual style uniforms and we unapologetically rock our own hair and make up, Those wedding photos will be treasured for generations and you deserve to feel like a million bucks on the day, Kay.
Hi Kay, It took me a couple days to be able to sit down and enjoy this post. First of all I love birds too! Since we’ve retired we’ve loved feeding and watching them. And during the pandemic we were truly addicted. But on to other things like hair color. No shame for your thoughts of dying your hair again and here’s especially why. I’ve had gray hair for seven years now. I thought it was the green thing to do and the “natural” way I should go. But here I am at 69 questioning that choice because I suddenly feel old and really feel like this gray hair is making me act older than I need or want to. It also isn’t a pretty gray. It’s just drab and makes me feel drab too. So I also am going to have a conversation with my hairdresser Monday when I go. I may be going back to brown hair and if I do it will be the right choice at the right time. Good luck with your decision too!