It’s freezing here in Canada, we’re all wrapped up in down jackets, knit hats (aghh, bad hair days), longing for spring. And wouldn’t you like to start spring strutting your stuff in a pair wedges? I adore these Gap wedges – sexy and sturdy!

Stay warm and dream about springtime walks…

The Pocket Pema Chodron by Pema Chodron

One of the questions I ask during a Style Statement session is, “What does your critical voice say?”  This book of 108 short selections teaches us to soften our hearts towards ourselves. Pema Chodron, a Buddhist nun, writes about spirituality in everyday terms, in a way that’s practical and applicable.

The Artist Way by Julia Cameron

This book changed my life.  Twelve weeks of discovery and structure revealed my yearning for more creativity. Cameron recommends two activities to unblock creativity and build confidence. Morning pages is a daily ritual of writing three pages and the artist date is a weekly date spent alone in a artistic experience.

The Creative Habbit , Learn it and Use It for Life by Twyla Tharp

New York choreographer Tharp  finds a system for turning ideas into products. Forget “natural genius,” good work habits and preparation for creativity breeds success.  Her commitment to creativity is admirable.

Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John Gottman

My husband and I refer to this book often. For us, the treasure lies in, “Turn towards each other instead of away.” Small gestures of action that can be applied to all areas of your life. Turn towards your desires instead of away!

Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don’t by Jim Collins

Collins advocates the Hedgehog Concept – What you can be best at, what you are passionate about, and what drives your economic engine? Collins states that sustained disciplined action is achieved by commitment to the Hedgehog Concept and the willingness to shun opportunities that fall outside the three circles.

How’s everyone’s January? It’s a big month as we work on creating a year to enjoy and in which to feel fully present. It’ll help to keep your Style Statement close at hand for guidance, and to indulge from time to time in little treats. Here are a few of mine this month:

1. Lonny: A former Domino magazine editor created this online design magazine that draws on London & New York and features fashion, gardening, and home tours … and you can shop online! This issue (only their second) is all about “people living out their passions.”
2. Iconoclasts: Sundance Channel offers a series of intimate conversations captured on video between leading visionaries … one of the most fascinating I watched was between Mike Meyers and Deepak Chopra.
3. Inspirational Women: Found this little gem of a video on YouTube—the creator wanted to express how inspired she is by unforgettable movie stars like Meryl Streep, Susan Sarandon, Audrey Hepburn, etc. Talk about style …
4. Time for you: Before the end of the month, give yourself permission to let go of chores like laundry, dishes or making your bed. Instead relax into some quiet time. Meditate, write a note, go for a walk, or do absolutely nothing!
5. Perk up your taste buds: No need to sacrifice calories for flavor. On 101cookbooks.com, Heidi Swanson creates recipes primarily focused on natural whole foods. Cozy up with a fabulous book and dip into a bittersweet chocolate tart.

Photo credit: My favorite willow tree at Kits beach by The Canadian Frenchie

What I’m loving this week:

1. Cool crafts through the Hand in Hand program. Kate Spade has partnered up with Women for Women International to support women in Africa to create beautifully crafted products. Warms you from your head to your heart.
2. American Hasidic Jewish reggae. Matisyahu’s music shakes my soul. “All of my songs are influenced and inspired by the teachings that inspire me. I want my music to have meaning.” Listen to “One Day,” from his Light CD.
3. This phrase from Robin Wright’s interview in Redbook magazine: “Stepping into the fear to obtain joy.” Newly divorced from Sean Penn, Robin is a dedicated mamma embarking on the second phase of her acting career.
4. Mathew Hutson’s reference to Steve Jobs’ creativity in Psychology Today. Apparently, people “pick the artist over the operations guy,” preferring to work with creative thinkers and visionaries.
5. Walnuts — my great daily afternoon treat. Walnuts aid the brain because of their high concentration of omega-3 fats. Here’s to Brain Power!

Matisyahu photo from Idaho Statesman article