HATS OFF

By Vernalee

Elegance never goes out of style. It dresses up a person with class. Hats contribute to elegance by adding a look of distinction. They are in a class all by themselves. I remember the days that you would rarely see a woman in the southern churches without a hat. The attire of my Mother, aunts, and women of her generation was not complete without their hats, and matching shoes/purses.. Sometimes, they added gloves to round out their look. How chic! For some women, hats became a part of their signature look.

Though not obsolete, hats over the years lost some of their once dominant popularity. They did not go out of style, but their appeal was diminished to the new generation. Hats are not embraced as they once were, but they have held their own fashion ranking particularly during worship service.

Sunday church service wouldn't be complete without the ladies wearing those decorative classy hats.

It is an undisputed fact that hats make a woman look distinguished, sophisticated, and all dressed up. Although I am not a hat wearer, I love the look! I love the elegance! I love seeing women wearing their hats as they make a definite fashion statement. It completes their look with a touch of class. In closing, I know that we all know a lady who personifies elegance - whether she wears a hat or not! Hats off to them! Photo reprint: www.washingtonpost.com – Mrs. Elaine Saunders, District of Columbia

WHAT TYPE OF SHOPPER ARE YOU

By Vernalee

Want to go shopping anyone? When you go to the stores, be prepared. Have a plan. Smart shopping requires research, skills, and time. For the most part, I have resorted to on line shopping. It’s reliable and time saving. My nieces, however are shopping divas with a skill set that can rival the best. They are the “shop till you drop” ladies. They can dig up a pricey Saks Fifth Avenue designer suit at a bargain warehouse for such a ridiculous price that it is laudable. I kid you not! I marvel at their skills! Their finds leave you speechless! I don’t know if they have telescopic vision, but they know where all the sales are (near and far; on line and off) including the moment of their occurrence. Finding the “blue light” specials is their specialty as they emerge into one or several of the smart shoppers categories below: 1. The Bargain Hunter – Gets the best price. 2. The Impulse Buyer – Acts quickly to snag a deal. 3. The Loyalist – Uses rewards to save big. 4. The Researcher – Compares every offer. 5. The Negotiator – Always haggles. 6. The Shopper on a mission – Plans strategically. To my nieces, I am recommending that you set up a personal shopping business. With your skill set, you will make a mint! Sometimes, I wonder which niece is the best shopper! It’s too close to call. They are all … just that good! Here’s my advice girls – To get you started, I’ll prepare your business plan and create the necessary documents. Use your skills and talents to shop for others and make big money doing something that you love – shopping! Cha Ching! Photo credit: www.essence.com; Illustration by Aimee Camilien; Source: Essence Magazine

FATHER DAUGHTER DANCE

By Vernalee

My mind reflected to a memory sketched in my heart. I can remember my daughter's Father Daughter Dance from decades ago as if it was yesterday. I'm not sure who was the most excited - she or her Dad! Preparing for the Dance was like getting her prepared for prom, years ahead of time. She had to have a long gown ( purple and gold, in fact), socks with lace around the edges, patented leather black shoes, and a shiny gold necklace and earrings. Her long black hair was glammed up with curls. The look was sheer elegance! She definitely looked like a little princess! This seven year old little girl‘s appearance was matched in appearance as her tall Daddy wore a tailored made stunning black suit. His handsome look was exquisitely debonair. The two of them were a sight to see! They practiced their dance over and over beforehand to get ready for the big night. Her little feet were parked on top of his size 10 shoes as they danced the night away!

The night was fun. It was full of memories that my daughter will cherish and never forget. She was her Dad's heart. He was hers! Their love for each other was radiant with every step that they took. It was more than a dance, it was an exemplification of love as Fathers at the dance showed their little girls how a man should treat them - with love, dignity, and respect.

It‘s now a memory that will never grow old!