August 18, 2011

Kicking Off My Heels

The Coveteur

Last week was exhausting. The good kind of exhausting. A long awaited professional goal was finally realized and lots of new opportunities are on the horizon. Hopefully, I'll be able to talk about it all soon. In the midst of such a busy week I couldn't help but look forward to the weekend. Early Saturday morning I packed up a little canvas tote and headed up the Hudson on Metro-North to volunteer with one of my favorite organizations. 

It was all about kicking off my heels and putting on my favorite oxford shirt and ballet flats. A Breton sweater and sunscreen were tucked into my bag. A day at summer camp calls for pared down elegance. Who wants to be restricted by attire when you could be boating or helping a child decorate a T-shirt? There's nothing more inelegant than being inappropriately dressed for the occasion. The children I tutor and mentor during the school year were amazed by my relaxed attire. 

It's always rewarding to visit camp. I feel very fortunate to be able to be involved  with an organization that provides children with such an amazing experience. It's easy to take the little things that define summer for granted, but these kids never cease to amaze me. They are open to exploring and trying new things in the way children naturally are. In times when it feels like the world is falling apart, it's important to remember that you can make a difference in someones' life. To me giving back is truly one of the chicest things you can do.

16 comments:

  1. Such a lovely post. Congratulations on the new opportunities coming your way - sounds like you have earned some good karma :)

    Would love to read more about your experiences at the camp. Reminds me that consideration is one of the most elegant traits a person can possess.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I agree with Ammu, lovely post indeed. :-)

    ReplyDelete
  3. Ammu- Thank you!

    I agree consideration for others is one of the most elegant traits a person can possess. It truly sets you a part from the rest.

    I will definitely blog about the program. It's such an important part of who I am. The program is the perfect blend of academics during the year and fun. As much as I love being on the Junior Council and attending events it's important to roll your sleeves up and get dirty too.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Tricia- Thank you! It's very hard to sum up:)

    ReplyDelete
  5. Cannot agree more. The most important thing you can do is invest in your own community and those around you. Perhaps that's what the rioters in England need to be taught? Hmmmmm... too hard perhaps?
    Looking forward to hearing about your new venture.
    PS forgot to comment on the last post but my mother's mikimoto pearl earrings are my absolute favourite too, plain and simple and oh so stylish :)

    ReplyDelete
  6. La Fille mal Gardée- That's exactly it- you're investing in your society. I think everyone has something, whether it's time, funds, a talent that they can give back. When I think about all of the disturbing events in the world it's clear that we just don't value this enough.

    There's something nice about something so plain and simple finishing up an outfit. You are so right, pearls are very stylish.

    ReplyDelete
  7. This is such a nice post to read and it makes me want to find time be more involved :)
    xx

    ReplyDelete
  8. Michelle Goldie- Thank you. It's so nice to hear that this inspired you:)

    ReplyDelete
  9. Such a great post! It sounds like you managed to stay chic on the job. :) I interned at a children's non-profit right out of college, and I ended my internship by attending the kids' end-of-the-year assembly -- it made me wish I had volunteered on the program side to work with the students directly (I worked in the office in the communications/development side).

    ReplyDelete
  10. Rachel- Thank you! I'm all about trying to stay chic on the job:) Volunteering with children is a nice departure from working all day with adults. It's definitely a nice departure from routine. Your internship sounds really interesting.

    ReplyDelete
  11. I love this post. You are such an inspiration in so many ways. I mean we already knew you were sartorially inspirational, but this is truly heartwarming. Keep doing what you do and doing it with style.

    ReplyDelete
  12. Great photo! I recognise the off-heels-day!

    ReplyDelete
  13. Emmi- That is so sweet, thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Sonja- I love this photo too and yes every woman deserves to have an off heels day;)

    ReplyDelete
  15. I just came across your bog love it! Beautiful post, i love the first photo! new follower:)

    www.lcdjs.net

    ReplyDelete
  16. Secret garden by S'- It's always good to hear from a new reader. I'm glad you're enjoying the blog.

    ReplyDelete