tranquility du jour

week in review

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Fri, 17 May 2013 05:41:00 PDT

beauty spotted during stroll

sculpture garden

peony prettiness

week in review

15 30-minute teacher auditions

taught 3 yoga classes

took 2 yoga classes

heaps of biking

farewell management lunch

delighted in hemingway ballet

learned lots at fashion truck webinar

updated tranquil space foundation team on board retreat takeaways

enjoyed a train ride to west virginia

submitted paperwork to sit for social work licensing exam

artist date with friend in sculpture garden

savored color, line, light: french drawings exhibit

lunch meeting with teacher director

saw the great gatsby

purchased the great gatsby soundtrack

penned wednesday well-being

shared things i love: gatsby style

released podcast on relationships + tiny living

penned mindful monday

brunch with le beau

heaps of chez moi organization

dentist jaunt {no cavities}

my dentist confession = "i eat too much sugar + don't floss enough"

released TranquiliT promo {above} noting survey {please share feedback}, vintage + sale

paris retreat prep

survived an afternoon without internet + working email on phone = oddly good for the soul

shipped daybooks

penned thank you notes

brow wax

released textbooks back to amazon for credit

2.5 hour conference call with studio boutique mavens

weekend wish list

bask in "graduation" by savoring weekend silent meditation retreat

et toi? what's on your weekend wish list?

bisous. x

wednesday well-being

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Wed, 15 May 2013 06:31:00 PDT

bonjour beloved you. i hope your hump day is off to a delightful start.

after 3 hours of teacher auditions yesterday and 5 hours coming up today, i feel parts of my body i didn't know were there. well hello random upper left arm muscle! so lovely to see teacher trainees come into their own.

while we all know the importance of daily exercise and smart eating to enhance well-being, i wanted to share something i've been dabbling in. to get through the random grumpiness of the previous week, i've made a conscious effort to ensure sufficient movement each day since and it's made a lovely difference {although today's 5 hours may be a few hours more than i bargained for}.

taking the precious time to move out of our heads and into our bodies is critical for our overall well-being. we know this. but do we practice this religiously? biking to appointments {or ballets at the kennedy center}, hitting the gym for 15 minutes on your own schedule, dropping into a yoga class to coddle your spirit, taking an afternoon stroll around your office building--all of these have the potential to awaken and nurture.

i chose the above photo as a reminder to consciously start your day. it's an image of a recent start with my pink thermos {always in tow}, daybook {also always in tow}, journal {often in tow}, and a book to inspire {often in tow}. by sitting down with these tranquility tools and offering yourself moments of reflection and organization, your day can get off to a more savory start. while i'm still working on the perfect morning routine, i appreciate the benefits that come from surrounding myself with these few items.

also, it's never too late to restart your day. maybe you received upsetting news {big things}, are out of your favorite tea {small things}, or feel an overall sense of malaise. pull out your tranquility tools of choice and restart mid-day. then go for a walk. i promise, it will make a difference.

wishing you a beautiful wednesday filled with well-being. and in the interim, whip up a green juice {or pick one up, even starbucks has them now} to nurture your insides! you are beautiful. bisous x

things i love: gatsby style

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Tue, 14 May 2013 03:00:00 PDT

image courtesy of style girl jess james

image courtesy of super kawaii mama

image courtesy of snag the look

image courtesy of fashion finder

image courtesy of vogue

tranquility du jour #270: relationships + tiny living

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Mon, 13 May 2013 09:53:00 PDT

Welcome to the 270th edition of Tranquility du Jour. Today's show features moi and le beau musing on your questions re: our relationship and tiny living. (sorry for the crackle in the first few seconds! - le beau)

Workshops + Retreats: Join moi for a tranquilologie experience. Immerse yourself in the study of tranquility with scents of lavender, lots of love, and dollops of sparkles thrown in. Below are a few options.

Ongoing

* 1:1 Mentoring
* Mindfulness E-course
* Creative + Conscious Business E-course
* Tranquilologie: A DIY Sprinkling of Everyday Tranquility E-course

* Tranquil Space Lifestyle E-course

2013
* Art, Yoga + Shopping in Paris May 22-26 (2 spots left)
* Art, Yoga + Shopping in Paris June 5-9 (sold out)
* Tranquility Summer Camp in West Virginia August 15-18 (4 spots left)
* Yoga Lifestyle Retreat in Costa Rica August 31-September 7
* Tranquility Tour September 14-November 16

2014
* Art + Yoga in West Virgina April 25-27
* Art, Yoga + Shopping in Paris June TBA

tranquilitytour.com

We’re packing up our four-legged furry sons and criss-crossing the continent September 14-November 16, 2013 while sprinkling tranquility along the way. Join us on this adventure in person, online, or in spirit. More at tranquilitytour.com.

interior lillie shots

Haute off the Press:
Tranquility du Jour Daybook: It's a pink planner, lifestyle organizer, and wellness guide all in one. This perfect complement to Tranquilologie is filled with checklists, inspiration, eye candy, and 52 dateless week spreads so you can start at anytime. Watch our how-to video with Carol Meyers.

Spring Seasonal Podcast: Released March 25 and filled with gems for making this spring mindful and tranquil

Spring Love Note (includes a Tranquility Mixtape)

most of the family (sans felines) pre-inaugural ball circa 2009

Dear Tranquility du Jour:

1. How did you and le beau meet? With both of you being so busy, how do you make things work? What are your secrets? :-)

2. I'd love to hear any tips you might have on living in a small space. I recently moved from my 3-bedroom house to a 1-bedroom apartment. I've decluttered like crazy, but still need to do more! How do you organize your pink palace to have space for your creativity, your businesses, meditation, and not to mention yourself, le beau, le pug, and le meow?

S'il vous plaî, submit your question for consideration on a future podcast.

Savvy Sources:

Fun feature about our podcast on Libsyn
Tranquility du Jour iPhone and Android app

Tranquility du Jour FAQs: Start here
Latest Tranquility du Jour Museletter
Follow @timmooney or check out Tim's blog, an uncommonly silly blog

Signature Style: TranquiliT is a line of layers in rayon made from organic bamboo and designed by moi. We sew locally and plant 150 trees monthly while also donating a portion of proceeds to Tranquil Space Foundation, Farm Sanctuary, and Nest. In addition, we offer vintage and reclaimed goodies because it doesn't get more eco than reusing!

Stay Au Courant:
Connect on Facebook.
Follow moi on Twitter for daily sprinkles of tranquility.
Watch Tranquility du JourTV.
Browse Hip Tranquil Chick and Tranquilista.

Join the Tranquility du Jour museletter.
Pin along with moi on Pinterest.
Peruse my Etsy shoppe.
Read about my passion for pigs.
Follow moi on Instagram @tranquilitydujour.
Write a review on iTunes - it helps others find our show.
Submit questions for our bimonthly "Ask Tranquility du Jour" podcasts.
Read along with this season's online book club choice.

Techy stuff:

- You don't need an iPod to listen to the podcast! Click on the player at the top of the post or click here to listen to older episodes.

- New to podcasting? Get more info at Podcast 411.

- Do you have iTunes? Click here and subscribe to the podcast. You'll automatically get the latest edition as soon as it's available!

mindful monday

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Mon, 13 May 2013 08:03:00 PDT

image from page 16 of mindful

welcome to a new week. i got up at 6:45, meditated for 20 minutes, and have been on a roll ever since. this early bird is catching a worm i tell you. ommmm.

delighted in a weekend filled with yoga, chez moi organization, and a deep falling in love with the great gatsby. the movie. the fashion. the soundtrack. look for inspiration flowing into TranquiliT's fall collection. i'm a big fan of 20s style. so feminine, flowy, and flair-filled.

i also began doing a bit of packing for paris as i leave next monday evening {eek!}. above is a shot of the artist toolkit i'll be hauling for the art and yoga retreats plus my own artist dates while living in the city of light.

after teaching and taking yoga last night, i biked to the kennedy center for a solo artist date with the hemingway ballet. i was absolutely blown away. truly mesmerizing. well done, washington ballet.

as i prepare for my final seven days in town, i'm using my yoga and meditation practice to stay grounded. it's a true savior. so is mindful breathing and it's a tool we always have with us.

when i came across the above piece in mindful magazine, i knew it would be perfect to share in this column. if you read the article, you'll find that there are actually a top five list of regrets shared by those dying:

- had the courage to live a life true to myself

- hadn't worked so hard

- been brave enough to express my feelings

- stayed in touch with my friends

- let myself be happier

do any of these resonate with you right now?

the palliative nurse who collected this data states, "my biggest lesson was learning to be gentle with myself and not get caught up in judgments, as we're all conditioned to do." hmmmm.

doesn't that feel like a good reminder? be gentle with yourself. mindfulness at its core is paying attention sans judgment. let's make that a mantra this week, shall we? bisous. x

week in review

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Fri, 10 May 2013 06:10:00 PDT

week in review

taught 4 yoga classes

took 3 yoga classes

1 gym jaunt

got tickets to hemingway: the sun also rises

dinner date with girlfriend

evening meditation with tara brach

TranquiliT strategy meeting at teaism with girlfriend

purchased black chevron + stripe fabric samples

hair cut + color

TranquiliT inventory count

put select TranquiliT items on sale

sent tranquility tour e-blast

finalized giverny and impressionists seine cruise tickets for paris retreats

secured afternoon tea ladurée reservations for paris retreats

hosted doga to raise funds for washington humane society

co-hosted tranquil space foundation board meeting

cookout at le beau's cabin with sweet alli + family

shipped TranquiliT + daybook orders

tea + writing date at coffee shop

tranquility tour next steps with le beau

chat with farm sanctuary re: awareness/fundraising on tour

picked up pink flowers to brighten chez moi
updated neighborhood guidebook on air bnb

explored ways to get to plum village to celebrate turning 40

crafted "must do before paris" list

penned mindful monday

shared things i love

announced the giveaway winner

fun feature on libsyn re: podcast

hosted a mentoring session

conducted three podcast interviews for upcoming shows

sent new vintage items to webmaster for upload

cuddle time with beloved pets

purchased glamping and handmade glamping

prepped "to handle before france" list

signed up for wisdom 2.0 business conference

purchased wisdom 2.0 and *highly* recommend

weekend wish list

savor solo hemingway ballet date

sub + take yoga

savor the great gatsby in 3D with le beau

brunch with le beau

learn heaps on fashion truck webinar

et toi? what's on your weekend wish list?

bisous. x

things i love

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Tue, 07 May 2013 03:00:00 PDT

image + how to courtesy of parcel post

1. letters in bloom

image + how to courtesy of kelli murray

2. flower crown

image + how to courtesy of rock and roll bride

3. handmade tutu

image + how to courtesy of fleur de lis design

4. earrings from lace

image + how to courtesy of etsy

5. design + sew your leggings

mindful monday

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Mon, 06 May 2013 08:23:00 PDT

gearing up for doga at washington humane society fundraiser

welcome to mindful monday. it's a treat to be back with you today. announcing the giveaway winner on saturday was très fun. i can't thank you enough for all of your thoughtful shares in the giveaway comments section. truly warmed my heart. especially since i found myself to be grumpy pants last week.

it began monday and continued through friday night with spurts of sunshine--literally and figuratively. i tried to practice STOP as i found it creeping in {although one evening i practiced eating smart white cheddar popcorn and cherry gummies instead = #mindfulnessfail}. after a bit of journal writing about said grumpiness, i chocked it up to not feeling grounded--procuring lillie {my first vehicle since donating my 1992 jeep to charity in 2007}, final classes at school and saying goodbye to colleagues from the past 4 years, no internship {miss my clients and colleagues}, camping in a new setting, pet wrangling, and realizing i leave for 6 weeks super duper soon. although none of these things are bad and, frankly, most are exciting, having heaps of change at once apparently leaves me a bit, well, grumpy pants.

the weekend offered a chance to get grounded. hosting the annual doga event to raise funds and awareness for washington humane society always leaves me feeling good. signed up for the september wisdom 2.0 conference which focuses on mindfulness, wisdom, and business. i'd read wonderful things about it in an huffington post article and it felt like the perfect launching pad for tranquility tour. yesterday we hosted a tranquil space foundation board retreat at le beau's cabin where we explored next steps for expansion of our signature program and a revision of our mission statement. many hours later, we emerged happy and content with our efforts--always a good thing. clearly feeling like i'm taking steps to make a difference seems to help ease grumpiness. as alice walker reminds us, "activism is the rent i pay for living on this planet."

yet each day is an opportunity to make a difference. not just hosting an event or non-profit board retreat. treating others with kindness. saying "thank you." stepping back and practicing STOP as you find yourself off kilter. penning thoughts in your journal to process what is transpiring. we're complex creatures and taking a moment to emotionally regulate can have a profound effect on the way we interact with others. especially when we're grumpy. bisous. x

and the winner is . . .

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Sat, 04 May 2013 15:19:00 PDT

image courtesy of hustle your bustle

i'm over the moon to announce the winner of our latest giveaway: alicia laurin. she was number 53 out of 97. a BIG congrats to alicia and a BIG merci beaucoup to each of you for your kind love notes and thoughtful tranquility tips. also, my apologies for the delay in announcing the winner. while camping i was sans wifi and am delighted to be back online to share this exciting news. may your weekend be filled with tranquility. bisous. x

week in review

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Fri, 03 May 2013 09:00:00 PDT

Can't see the video? Check it out on YouTube or at tranquilitytour.com!

week in review

taught 2 yoga classes

took 2 yoga classes

turned in final grad school paper

1 gym jaunt

soaks in the tub

purchased sweet lillie {camper}

penned muse for tranquil space newsletter

2 final MSW classes

signed up for gotham writers' workshop online memoir class

signed up for daring adventures in paint + life e-course

purchased daring adventures in paint + memoir writing for dummies

refinanced chez moi

procured license plate + insurance for camper

outfitted new camper

camped in greenbelt state park

gave a brief presentation on internship macro projects

hosted fun giveaway

created tranquil space foundation board retreat agenda

released podcast with denise nieman

penned tranquilosophy: glamping dreams

shared things i love

shared mindful monday

penned may dreams

hosted mentoring session

call with women's leadership program mentee

weekend wish list

host successful doga to raise funds for washington humane society

host inspiring tranquil space foundation board retreat

tranquilologie edits

read, rest, dream

et toi? what's on your weekend wish list?

bisous. x

tranquilosophy: glamping dreams

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Thu, 02 May 2013 11:58:00 PDT

meet our new miss lillie

le pug checking it out + heads straight to sit on the table {sigh}

also le chat noir's fave spot

first selfie in the camper

LED lights, handmade bunting + shabby chic bedding hung with care

le pug {unhappily} secured with shabby chic ribbon

today's walk to work from greenbelt national park

morning work from the camper

pink petunias adorn the outside

proudly showcasing my new breast cancer awareness plate

bonjour from starbucks in dupont circle where i'm housed for a dose of green tea and splash of wifi. this week has been one of excitement, new experiences, and an ongoing return to the present moment. inhale, exhale.

from sitting at the west virginia DMV for two hours {and debating much-too-heavily between the wildlife or breast cancer awareness plate}; to containing three pets who want to run into the woods as the camper door opens; to outfitting our new vintage camper with "essentials" such as yummy linens, peppermint candles, LED lighting, handmade bunting, and a tea kettle; to walking to the metro through the woods today. oh, and let us not forget the demands for food {just today claustrophobic le beau was pinned in at 5am by hungry kitties}. the cherry on top, the kitties have to be watched when consuming food lest a "starving" pug swoop in and consume it all with one gulp.

despite the drama that has me filled with giggles out of the sheer hilarity of each moment {easier than crying}, i'm over the moon that we've found the perfect tiny {20 feet} home for our upcoming tranquility tour. it was found on craig's list and purchased from the sweetest 75-year-old named merryl.

we will be doing some updates to the 1988 interior which definitely has a 70s vibe. to start, we plan to paint the wood-paneled interior white to brighten it up. i'll get mama wilson going on toile, damask, or chevron curtains and coordinating slip covers for the cushions. sadly, not sure that a chandelier is going to be possible but i'll keep pushing. these simple edits will brighten it up and add a dollop of charm. stay tuned for the ongoing evolution. the outside needs some pink beyond the petunias and we're still mulling that transformation over.

as you may know, i've been on a camper kick for years. both sets of grandparents had airstream trailers and i played clubhouse in them as often as possible. in 2011 i began looking for my own airstream clubhouse on craig's list and have dabbled with the idea heavily over the past two years. why? i needed a girly place to play and create at le beau's masculine cabin in the woods {and i'm secretly in love with dottie angel}. when we came up with the tranquility tour concept, we knew it was time to get serious about finding the perfect fit. although my initial dream was for a trailer, we would have had to purchase two new-to-us used vehicles versus one. thus, the stand alone camper decision. oh, and it will serve as the perfect fashion truck for TranquiliT, too.

there are many darling books and articles about glamour camping {coined glamping--including handmade glamping}, do-gooding along the way, and living a nomadic lifestyle. i thought about the notion of glamping as i walked off the deck carrying my suitcase to the camper in clogs. a not-so-glamorous moment. i'm sure there will be many more.

i share this post under "tranquilosophy" because this vintage camper has been a dream for many years. it's an honor to have it come true within our tiny budget. by pinpointing dreams, creating a budget, searching and waiting for the perfect fit, plus having a plan {bonjour tranquility tour}, dreams come to life in due time.

what dreams do you have lying within? well, it's a new month and time to pen may dreams {if you haven't already}. why not plant a bold seed into your tranquility du jour daybook? begin watering it with attention and intention this month and beyond. you may surprise yourself. bisous. x

tranquility-filled giveaway o' love

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 09:01:00 PDT

image courtesy of i love that glove

ooh la la, in celebration of YOU . . . it's giveaway time.

1. handmade tranquiliTea bags

2. daybook {sans banana}

3. flouncy parisian skirt

as a token of gratitude for our sparkly online community, i'm offering a fun-filled giveaway of a few favorite tranquility tools:

1. handmade tranquiliTea bags {perfect blend of rose, lavender, chamomile, peppermint + spearmint}

2. a tranquility du jour daybook

3. a TranquiliT parisian skirt

enter to win this care package: leave a love note or tranquility takeaway in the comment section below. the lucky winner will be chosen using a random number generator THIS friday, may 3 after 6pm. and for the lucky winner, this box of love will be en route to you via snail mail (the best kind) next week. merci for reading and resonating. bisous. x

things i love

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 03:00:00 PDT

image courtesy of mod cloth

1. spring dress sweetness

image courtesy of vintage cottage camper

2. cozy shabby chic camper bed

image courtesy of wanderlust

3. more love for this camper fashion truck, wanderlust

image courtesy of sustainable blog

4. j'adore this one

image courtesy of blush shop

5. bonjour cutest camper fashion truck appropriately named blush

mindful monday

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 10:39:00 PDT

welcome to a new week. another chance to start anew. it's rainy today in the woods. despite waking up on the wrong side of the bed {thanks to interrupted slumber by my 4-legged furry friends}, i'm hopeful there is sunshine heading my way today. {insert grumble}

while on hold with multiple insurance and financial providers this morning--again not the recommended way to start a week especially with a grumpy face--i began searching for mindfulness images to inspire today's post. i came across the above image and fell in love. why did this watercolor come up under "mindfulness," i wondered?

well it turns out that the watercolor illustrations are attached to the sweetest bed and breakfast i've ever seen. complete with a meditation room, pilates and yoga classes, massage, and slowing down--all with a mindfulness spin. truly heavenly.

i love this from their concept page:

After years of yoga and meditation practice, we have embraced the idea of Mindfulness, first coming to us by the writings of Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn P.H.D. "Mindfulness is a moment-to-moment nonjudgmental awareness, cultivated by paying attention." Mindfulness arises naturally from living. It can be strengthened through practice. This practice is sometimes called meditation. But meditation is not what you might think. Meditation is really about paying attention, and the only way in which we can pay attention is through our senses, all of them, including the mind. "Mindfulness is a way of befriending ourselves and our experience. Of course, our experience is vast, and includes our own body, our mind, our heart, and the entire world," Dr. Kabat-Zinn says. In our point of view, a 'Mindful way' of looking at the world - and guidance in how to relate to others - 'paying attention' is key. This does not mean you have to be Mindful to be a guest at our Bed and Breakfast in Valencia, nor does it imply you should share this belief (or even know what it means !) to enjoy the carefully chosen surroundings during your city-trip or holidays to Valencia. It just means we care; we care for you to have a memorable experience in a relaxing setting, where eye for detail and aesthetic quality in your Valencia Bed and Breakfast are an important factor in making your stay as relaxing and welcoming as possible.

when you wake up feeling less than sparkly, finding a gem such as this can be refreshing. while their spin on mindfulness isn't necessarily new, the incorporation into a homey hospitality business is unique and inspiring. i feel better simply knowing they exist--and see a train trip to valencia in my not-so-distant future.

now i'm going to take a deep breath and engage in a dose of meditation. mama needs it. and then maybe even a nap--despite my plan to write all day.

finished my final scholarly paper of my social work program last night {insert delight} and have clinically diagnosed myself sleepy, grumpy, and present with what is. bisous. x

images courtesy of valencia mindfulness retreat

tranquility du jour #269: living a glitter-filled life

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 19:49:00 PDT

Welcome to the 269th edition of Tranquility du Jour. Today's show features Denise Nieman on living a glitter-filled life.

tranquilitytour.com

Tranquility Tour: We’re packing up our four-legged furry sons and criss-crossing the continent September 14-November 16, 2013 while sprinkling tranquility along the way. Join us on this adventure in person, online, or in spirit. More at tranquilitytour.com.

Workshops + Retreats: Join moi for a tranquility-filled experience. Immerse yourself in the study of tranquility with scents of lavender, lots of love, and dollops of sparkles thrown in. Below are a few options to savor:

Ongoing

* 1:1 Mentoring
* Mindfulness: Tranquility Within E-course
* Creative + Conscious Business E-course
* Tranquilologie: A DIY Sprinkling of Everyday Tranquility E-course

* Tranquil Space Lifestyle E-course

2013
* Art, Yoga + Shopping in Paris May 22-26 (2 spots left)
* Art, Yoga + Shopping in Paris June 5-9 (sold out)
* Tranquility Summer Camp in West Virginia August 15-18 (5 spots left)
* Yoga Lifestyle Retreat in Costa Rica August 31-September 7
* Tranquility Tour September 14-November 16

2014
* Art + Yoga in West Virgina April 25-27
* Art, Yoga + Shopping in Paris June TBA

Haute off the Press:
Tranquility du Jour Daybook: It's a pink planner, lifestyle organizer, and wellness guide all in one. This perfect complement to Tranquilologie is filled with checklists, inspiration, eye candy, and 52 dateless week spreads so you can start at anytime. Released mid-December. Watch our how-to video with Carol Meyers.

Spring Seasonal Podcast: Released March 25 and filled with gems for making this spring mindful and tranquil

Spring Love Note (includes a Tranquility Mixtape)

Featured Tranquilista:

Denise Marie Nieman is a writer, globetrotter, big-time government lawyer, yogini, Francophile, entrepreneur, creative old soul, natural health Ph.D’er, and an ex-ballerina who still wears a tiara and tutu. She’s also the Chick-in-Charge of Concert Chick Productions, LLC, a biz she created to inspire the girls of this world to live a sparkly life filled with discovery, fun, well-being, and adventure. Denise lives by the beach in Jupiter, Florida, with her amazing husband, Joe, and their two hairy, precious kids, Roxi and Oliver.

Savvy Sources:
www.facebook.com/rocktheworldrehab
www.concertchick.com
tweet: @theconcertchick
http://pinterest.com/dnieman/

Online book club choice: The Now Effect

Tranquility du Jour iPhone and Android app
Tranquility du Jour FAQs: Start here
Latest Tranquility du Jour Museletter

Stay Au Courant:
Connect on Facebook.
Follow moi on Twitter for daily sprinkles of tranquility.
Watch Tranquility du JourTV.
Browse Hip Tranquil Chick and Tranquilista.

- New to podcasting? Get more info at Podcast 411.

- Do you have iTunes? Click here and subscribe to the podcast. You'll automatically get the latest edition as soon as it's available!

week in review

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 05:04:00 PDT

new blog look

le chat noir overseeing le beau's driving

my parisian apartment for 20 days

week in review

took two yoga classes

taught two yoga classes

hosted art + yoga retreat (= taught three more yoga classes)

said au revoir to beloved clients + colleagues at internship

finalized new blog design
art journal play time
25 hours internship
2 MSW classes
savored sunshine on my skin
biked 12 miles

sent semi-sabbatical update to tranquil space team

recorded mindful communication mp3
signed up for crafting an effective writer
signed up for inspiring leadership through emotional intelligence

social media and ethics daylong workshop
scheduled podcast interviews with eric maisel and amanda hirsch

penned tranquilosophy: evolution

secured paris apartment for portion of my stay

shared tasty treats for on-the-go
shared things i love: refashion
penned mindful monday: communication
met with seamstress
savored many soaks in the tub

weekend wish list
prep chez moi for guest
savor healing yoga workshop
savor train travel to le beau's cabin
finalize and turn in final scholarly paper
tranquilologie edits
check out potential vintage RV for tranquility tour
host inspiring mentoring session
release inspiring podcast with denise nieman
read
rest

et toi? what's on your weekend wish list?
bisous. x

tranquilosophy: evolution

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 05:20:00 PDT

beautiful blossoms

festive tights + garden blooms

treats from my colleagues

garden stroll at franciscan monastery

more monastery beauty

today is my final day of internship in amtrak's employee assistance program. i am tying a bow around this amazing learning experience by saying goodbye to many clients {sigh} and putting my stamp on oodles of macro projects.

yesterday my two supervisors and fellow intern treated me to tasty korean bbq (tofu, of course) at union market, a vanilla bean cupcake, thoughtful gifts, and a stroll through the franciscan monastery where i snapped some of the above pics. my experience at this internship has been truly heavenly and yesterday was the most perfect au revoir possible.

while i have worked with mentoring clients for years, having the opportunity to serve diverse clients with assorted struggles has been a true gift. since junior high i'd planned on being a therapist. in my early days of teaching yoga i saw the classes as a modified form of group therapy. then in may 2009, i decided it was time to pursue the practice further.

although there were many late night scholarly papers {including one due tomorrow}, last minute research done while leading retreats abroad, and over 1000 hours of internship at amtrak and n street village, i have grown in so many ways. for example, having a supervisor and not being in charge after many years of self-employment took some getting used to. working on a PC was an embarrassing struggle at times. creating my very first powerpoint presentation and hosting my first webinar left me a bit anxious. thank god for yoga. sitting down with my first client as their counselor was unnerving. learning organizational culture took some adjustment {you sure i can't wear peep toe wedges?} yep, only closed toe shoes in amtrak's safety sensitive environment.

one thing i've observed during this process is that ongoing evolution is therapeutic. incorporating tools and learning new skills feels good. the continual pushing of edges that we teach at tranquil space on the mat translates beautifully into everyday life.

the next six months will be filled with more evolution. learning additional skills while living and writing in france for six weeks {parlez-vous anglais?}, turning 40, traveling across north america in a vintage RV, taking online classes {just signed up for two through coursera}, playing host through air bnb, and more. although evolution is scary, it helps me feel alive. when done in baby steps, that is.

where do you feel a longing for evolution? are you interested in learning a new skill? exploring a new part of the city? doing a juice cleanse? learning a new language? try pushing your edges on a daily basis ever so slightly. nonjugdmentally observe what unfolds. sometimes we push too far, sometimes we explore too little. find the sweet spot in your evolution process. after all, you are perfect as you are. sometimes we simply need--and crave--a little creative enhancement. speaking of which, hope you like this blog's creative updo. all things are works in progress. bisous. x

wednesday well-being: 10 tasty treats

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 03:00:00 PDT

image courtesy of preston bailey

I can't hide that I'm no chef. Barely allowed in the kitchen, truth be told. I burn things that shouldn't burn. Like tops of toaster ovens. However, I can do some serious assembling and try to keep snacks on hand to nurture my fluctuating blood sugar. Here are a few nibble-worthy suggestions to grab on the go.

Grocery list:

Individual-sized containers of Greek yogurt

Mixed nuts

Nutrition bars

Eggs

Individual-sized cheese such as string cheese and Babybel

Apples

Bananas

Carrots

Celery

Whole wheat tortillas

Hummus

Granola

Dried fruit

Raw almonds

Brown rice cakes

All-natural nut butter

Snack list:

1. Greek yogurt: top with granola and slices of banana.

2. Nuts: keep some in your bag to pack a tasty punch of fiber and protein.

3. Nutrition bars: look for bars with 5 to 10 g of protein, little sugar, and less than 200 calories.

4. Hard-boiled eggs: protein-rich, low-calorie bite.

5. Individual sized cheese and fruit: pair your string cheese with a batch of grapes for a protein and sweet-filled snack.

6. Whole wheat tortilla and hummus: slather hummus or nut butter onto a whole wheat tortilla for a yummy protein-rich treat.

7. Granola mixed with dried fruit: mix up a small portion of granola and dried fruit with no sugar added. Sprinkle in almonds for more protein and crunch.

8. Brown rice cake topped with nut butter: this fluffy treat offers a nice blend of sweet and savory.

9. Carrots, celery, and hummus: dip your veggies into protein-rich hummus for a crunchy treat.

10. Apple: pack whole fruits such as apples or bananas. Tote an apple slicer to cut into bit-sized pieces. Top slices with nut butter for an additional protein.

What's your fave treat to tote? Bisous. x

things i love: refashion

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 03:00:00 PDT

image + how to courtesy of grey luster girl

1. sweet bow tee

image + how to courtesy of melissa esplin

2. ruched sweetheart neckline

image + how to courtesy of cotton and curls

3. maxi skirt

image + how to courtesy of sew much ado

4. tulle skirt

image + how to courtesy of merricks art

5. peplum top

mindful monday

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:40:00 PDT

image courtesy of utmb

happiest of mondays to you.

with a weekend full of hosting, i find myself moving a bit slowly today. as an introvert, it's always interesting to observe my recovery time. definitely more needed than seems reasonable. i slept many, many hours and am gearing up for a big week at internship and school. it's my final week of internship which means saying goodbye to many beloved clients and colleagues {sigh} and tying a bow around oodles of projects. it's my second to last week of graduate school which means penning a scholarly paper and gearing up for the end of my master's in social work studies. {squeal of glee}

as one door closes, another opens. a month from today i'll be welcoming retreaters for a dreamy five days of yoga, art, and vintage shopping in the city of light. there i'll stay to prepare for my second group in june, write for weeks on end {fun project brewing}, and turn forty before heading back to dc, then portland, then nyc, then costa rica, then tour. i'm ready for the adventures that lie ahead.

this week's mindful monday post is on mindful communication. after penning responses to journal prompts this weekend, participants broke into pairs to practice mindful listening and mindful speaking. the task had simple instructions coupled with a challenge: listen to your fellow participant for five whole minutes without thinking of what you're going to say, interrupting, or adding to her sharing. in addition, the speaker shared for five minutes about what came up for her during the journal writing process--noting themes, observances, and feelings. again, not easy.

i learned this technique in my 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction training and found it to be profound. since then i've tried--emphasis on tried-- to avoid interrupting speakers or creating my responses while they are still talking. instead, i've worked to listen to their full statement, waiting for the pause, and then shared. a work in progress.

with so many means of communication these days, it can be hard to give anything our full attention--phones ring, IM pops up, text messages come through. oh, and people verbally ask questions. like in the flesh. yet, it is more important than ever to be present.

as maya angelou states, "i've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” with our many modes of communication, why not make them more mindful?

watch for a mindful communication mini e-course filled with basic tools forthcoming. let's make people feel special. because they are. and you are. bisous. x

art + yoga spring retreat pics

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 17:33:00 PDT

screened porch flair

campfire s'more time

the ladies {note le pug photo bomb}

our collection of art journals

a page in progress

playing with lettering

doilies, handmade flower straws + mason jars labeled with japanese masking tape

week in review

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 07:23:00 PDT

spring beauty

tea treat with school presentation

pink blooms

church at sunset in west virginia

week in review

taught 3 yoga classes

took 2 yoga classes

20 hours at social work internship

1 MSW class

announced the tranquility tour

unveiled the tranquility tour website

spent evening at emergency vet

co-taught business of yoga workshop

biked to JBM and cloud cult concert

got a pink mani
hours of deep cleaning chez moi

commuted back and forth from west virginia

assisted with + supported annual lunafest event

shared things i love

rocked a donut bun (messy bun how to)

penned mindful monday

read great inc. article on 8 things you should not do every day

read more of stephen king's memoir on writing and the now effect

hosted a webinar on mindful communication at amtrak

finalized new blog design for tranquility du jour

attached chamomile tea bags to my ethics + spirituality presentation

signed up for alt summit for everyone

studio director meeting

hired new studio director

finalized veg pledge challenge at tranquil space for veg week

lots of snuggles with le chat noir

weekend wish list

host inspiring art + yoga retreat

connect with and serve retreaters

art journal

et toi? what's on your weekend wish list?

bisous. x

be inspired + do good TONIGHT

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 07:24:00 PDT

We would be SO honored for you to join us tonight from 6:30-9:00pm in Dupont Circle at Steptoe + Johnson (1330 Conn Ave) for Lunafest: films by, for and about women. Can't come? Consider supporting in spirit. Enjoy a wine and cheese reception, popcorn, fab films, and mingling off the mat. Tickets are $20 and support Tranquil Space Foundation and the Breast Cancer Fund. We're honored to be the DC co-host for this film festival for a 5th consecutive year. It's a natural fit for the work we do through yoga, creativity and leadership with women and girls and the support we foster through our Generosity Program's microgrants. Enjoy the trailer and we hope to see you tonight. Bisous x

things i love

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 06:05:00 PDT

image courtesy of anyone can decorate

1. remodeled RV

image + how to courtesy of making it lovely

2. DIY terrariums

image courtesy of i want to do this

3. sweet decor in trailer

image courtesy of modern hepburn

4. napping

image courtesy of reasons to breathe

5. tulle, noir, top knot

mindful monday

noreply@blogger.com (kimberly wilson) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 09:17:00 PDT

image courtesy of apartment therapy

dearest readers,

i hope you had a juicy weekend filled with your favorite things. or at least a smattering of them.

friday night we spent at the emergency vet with our beloved bonnard. diagnosed with cancer in january, i've felt blessed each day we've had together since. he's my first born (circa 1998), incredibly ornery, and black as night. the irony, he has a mass growing in front of his heart. despite his feisty (to put it nicely) exterior, we've been deeply connected since i scooped him up as a kitten. at a meditation class years ago, a fellow student announced that the alley cat had delivered kittens and they were free to a good home. recently out of a tumultuous relationship, i determined the only thing i'd miss about it was touch. well, a kitten would cure that! and boy did he. i've been an overprotective mum ever since. if he had a limp or was acting odd (nice), off to the emergency vet we'd go. although the late night vet wasn't positive about his prognosis friday night, she gave him some opiates, subcutaneous fluids, and pepcid. she also declared him on kitty hospice. he's been sunning outdoors, eating heaps, and begging for more treats ever since. whew, we got over that hump. although i know the end is near (as we will not tolerate any suffering) and my heart is heavy, i have been blessed with an amazing kitty (with a 3-inch thick medical file including cat scan images from his blind/partially paralyzed stint from which he miraculously recovered) for nearly 15 years. and for that i'm incredibly grateful.

saturday evening was our first night out in a long time. besides the ballet as le beau likes to remind me. we met up with friends and headed to the black cat to see JBM and cloud cult. if you don't know the song in a different time, you're missing out. i don't get super attached to songs, but this one gets me every time and it's a popular one during classes at tranquil space. truly touching. we stayed through the entire show and crawled home at 1:30am. as we headed to our bikes to ride home, i squealed, "bunnie, we're out super duper late!" oddly proud of myself. and, truthfully, still tired.

sunday was the release of our exciting news of the upcoming tranquility tour. we're most grateful for the support so far and can't wait to meet many of you during our adventure. consider hosting a tranquility pop-up, sponsoring the tour via one of your indie products/services, or attending a tranquility pop up. a portion of proceeds will benefit farm sanctuary and tranquil space foundation. the mission of the tour is to meet blog readers and podcast listeners, connect with nature, create memories, live simply, hand deliver copies of my upcoming hardback artsy book Tranquilologie: A DIY Guide to Everyday Tranquility, and sprinkle a dose of tranquility wherever we go. listen to our announcement here.

finally, the reason you're reading today is to get a sprinkle of mindfulness. i've been reading from the now effect and loving it. have you had a chance to peruse it? truly juicy and filled with good tips for everyday mindfulness. also, one of our lovely mindfulness e-course participants shared this article on 10 little things to do with mindful awareness. as you may know, there are both formal and informal mindfulness practices. this article shares heaps of daily informal practices to help bring you back to the present moment. that's where the magic happens. enjoy. bisous. x