Coastal Collective Co.

Can We Slow Down Time? #vlog

Personal Development, FamilyAnneke McConnell

Many of us are undoubtedly feeling the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season with activities, crafts, Christmas Tree lightings, parades, work parties, and so on.  All of these are WONDERFUL!! 

There was something stirring inside me the past week, as sensed in my last post, that I needed to be more selective and intentional about what we would be committing to this season.  It's ok to say no. In fact, there's no way you can do it all, right?

I've kept the Christmas decor to a minimum and we have a couple things a week we're doing as a family, whether inside at home or out and about together.  My motto this year is do less to enjoy more.....to be fully there, to look my husband and kiddos in the eyes, let their laughter sink into my heart and settle there for awhile before "moving on" to the next thing.

So a confession for you.  I am seriously the WORST scrap booking crafty type person in the history of ever.  But I've felt compelled to just look back over the memories (thank you Facebook), and put together a collage video of sorts for us to remember moments spent together over the years, all to my new FAVE song by Us The Duo called Slow Down Time.  You can find it HERE.

I hope this short video inspires you to slow down, look your loved ones in the eyes this season, and enjoy every  moment we are blessed to have.

xo,

Anneke

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Make It Happen: The Value of the Past

Personal DevelopmentAnneke McConnell

It's that time of year when people are already thinking about New Year's Resolutions and goals and this is clearly something I'm passionate about helping people with.

But today I was struggling with a particular area of my life (gosh I hate admitting that!), and thankfully I have an amazing husband of 13 years to talk these things through.

I could easily identify why I was feeling disappointed, but knew that the answer was one that would take focus, time, and consistency.

One thing that surprised me about our conversation, admittedly a bit emotional on my end, was when he said, "You know.....there's value in NOT looking to the future".

Woah.

I think God knew I needed to hear that one today and I'm thankful for to my husband for that tidbit of wisdom.

It actually hit me like a mini wave.  Like many people, I'm goal driven, purpose driven, looking to the future, planning, preparing, dreaming and constantly goal setting.

But I haven't taken much time to pursue the past in a way that would allow healing in some areas.  I haven't taken nearly enough time to celebrate the accomplishments, the journey, the relationships and moment that brought me to this moment in time.

There's value in not always looking to the future.  There is value in remembering, in reaching out to those who have influenced your life and saying, "Thank you" and "How are you?".

There's value in taking the time to heal, so that you can move forward in a more whole and healthy way.  There is value in visiting the past and remembering how far you've come.

I hope you'll take a moment today or soon to remember and find value in the past.

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xo, 

Anneke

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β€œRemember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
— Hebrews 13:7-8

Coastal Interiors: Blue and Gold Living Room

Home Blog Posts, Interiors, Living RoomAnneke McConnell

Today's blue and gold living room design came from browsing all of the fantastic Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales going on right now.  With high end quality home furnishings and decor up to 40% off or more, it's an amazing time to be decorating your home!

Place you'll definitely want to check out:

HORCHOW: Up to 40% off - I'm a huge fan of their lighting, mirrors, and bedroom furniture.

SERENA AND LILY: Up to 25% with code CELEBRATE. Their designs are clean, fresh, and airy. I'm pretty sure there isn't a single item of theirs I don't love!

ONE KINGS LANE: This is a free membership site with flash sales on all things amazing for home decor.  No joke.....you don't want to miss out on these holiday sales with blowout prices up to 85% off on some items. And it's a GREAT selection!!!  I particularly love their prices on chairs, sofas, artwork, and tables and the occasional lighting. They even have some beautiful jewelry!

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SHOP THE POST

COMPLETE THE LOOK

I hope you enjoy today's design! It was a fun one to customize the furniture and put together!  That's another reason I love some of these sites - you get to pick your fabrics!! Also, be sure to check out the Gift Guide HERE and Winter Boots post HERE.  

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xo,

Anneke

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Winter Boots 2015

Boots, Fashion, Fashion Blog PostsAnneke McConnell

We just got back from our Christmas tree farm adventure and, well........we never quite made it to the location! Sad right?! I'm so bummed that somehow our maps failed us.

We spent the morning getting bundled in sweaters, scarves, winter jackets, and of course our warm winter boots, and seemingly all for nothing! At least we were together. ;-)

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With Black Friday and Cyber Monday Sales in full swing (see the Gift Guide HERE), I've rounded up some great winter boot options. Unfortunately, I've searched and searched, but can't find my Ralph Lauren boots shown above (a few years old). 

I'm finding that when most sites get low on sizes, Amazon always seems to have more in stock. We live in Washington state, so that's my personal reference for the choices I picked, just so you know.

I love the Sorel and Tory Burch brand boots  for high quality and style, but there are some GREAT alternatives that are just as stylish and affordable. Hope this helps you find that perfect warm boot for this winter!

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xo,

Anneke

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