Hello, everyone! As fall sets in, I've found myself busily moving into my home back east. It's been quite an exhausting project, but as I was surrounded by chaos these last weeks, I had an experience I'd like to share with you. In this house, the bedrooms and living areas are perfect. They are newly renovated and beautifully decorated. The kitchen and upstairs bathroom however, are not. In fact, it is not only not renovated, it is downright awful!

The kitchen is a very important room to me, as I do a lot of cooking and therefore spend much time there. Upon "moving in", I decided I was on a mission to get this cooking area in shape, and quick! Even with help, I soon found myself depressed and surrounded by an even bigger mess. In fact, I became so focused on what was "wrong", that I was unable to notice the other rooms that were perfect and the land that was just exquisite. I could hear myself complaining and realized how I sounded, but still, depressed I was!     

Within two days of being in this ill state, something happened. I woke up and felt hugely thankful and terribly sorry that my eyes had been so closed to the beauty that surrounded me. I went for a walk along the property and was just amazed at the beauty that lay before me. I took the time to really notice and feel my surroundings, and I felt so much better! I was truly thankful for what I had, and the mess of the kitchen and plumbing no longer seemed like a big deal.

I'd like you all to keep in mind, as fall continues, how lucky we all are. If you are feeling like things aren't as you'd like, take a moment to appreciate all you DO have. I think that if we do this regularly, our lives will be much richer! And now, on with the show...

NOVEMBER BEAUTY

Start The Day Off Right, With Breakfast!

The morning is the time that prepares us for the rest of the day. If we start the day off right, we feel good and look good. Here are some simple sunrise ideas to get you on your way:

* Try a high energy shake using some fruit juice, a banana, and some protein powder. For variety or extra nutrients, add spirulina, frozen strawberries, or wheat germ. I like to add microhydrin and other extra-energy herbs as well.

*Upon awakening, opt for tea instead of coffee. Green tea is a good choice, as it is chock full of anti-oxidants which fight plaque and may even prevent cancer.

*No time to eat? Grab a breakfast bar on your way out the door. Look for the variety that contains no refined sugar and is made with fruit juice.

With these "good for you" ideas in mind, you'll have plenty of energy throughout the day!

Nutrient Rich Face Treatment: Make It At Home!

Carrots are chock full of beta-carotene and provide the skin with much needed vitamin A. Instead of spending a fortune on treatments from a dermatologist, consider this nourishing mask:

1. Grate two or three carrots and mix with a teaspoon of almond or olive oil.

2. Apply mixture to clean, dry skin. Massage carrots in to skin gently, using circular motions.

3. Let sit for five or ten minutes. Rinse with cold water.

Be sure to include carrots in your diet as well. This way you'll be sure to get their benefits from the inside out. After all, what is on the inside is perhaps more important.

NOVEMBER FASHION

This fall, fashion is all about redefined classics in earth tones. Shades of grey and warm browns will keep you warm in style! Here are some of my fall favorites:

1. A long, camel colored wool trench coat. You can find these at expensive boutiques or at budget-friendly catalogs such as Chadwicks of Boston.

2. A wool blend or cashmere turtleneck in taupe or off white. Wool blends tend to be comfortable and warm. Before you assume you can't afford cashmere, think again! Prices have dropped drastically this season.

3. A stretch, inverted pleat skirt. I like a wool/lycra blend for it's warmth as well as comfort. Again, you can find these at pricey boutiques or in catalogs such as J.Crew.

4. Wool or Moleskin Jeans. A new look for the good old standby. Warm yet stylish. Choose rich browns or smoky greys.

With these tips ideas in mind, you'll look great no matter the temperature!

For this issue, I've decided to share with you my "bargain basement finds". I do realize that it's getting chilly and the sundress is not season appropriate; however it was such a great buy I thought I would share it with you!

Do keep in mind that no matter what time of year, you can find fabulous buy's by shopping off season. The trick is to stay clear of "trendy" items that will no longer be in style by the time you get around to wearing them. Check the website for photo's of my "season's favorites"- they will be posted shortly!

That's all for this month! I will keep you all abreast of the changes that are continuing over at Beauty&Soul. As always, please don't hesitate to write to me with any comments or questions. Take care!

Wendy