https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Sun, 19 Apr 2026 12:32:22 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2173538 Sat, 20 Feb 2021 12:31:41 +0000 Stagiaire Fash 2173538@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I see these in your every post, love hearing the thought and care that go into your looks. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2173208 Thu, 18 Feb 2021 23:55:34 +0000 Mainelady 2173208@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Debbie, you are so kind. Thank you. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2173198 Thu, 18 Feb 2021 22:38:01 +0000 Debbie 2173198@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thank-you so much for allowing us to read this. It is liberating to grow older and realize that we need don’t care as much about what people think of our clothing choices.</p> <p>Your description of yourself is how I pictured you. People that have the privilege of knowing in person are extremely lucky. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2173050 Thu, 18 Feb 2021 16:55:40 +0000 Mainelady 2173050@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Angie and Suz, thank you both for your very kind words and generous sentiments. I find that when I am ready to pour things straight from my heart I often uncover more of the real me. The unedited is the most authentic.&nbsp;</p> <div>&nbsp; Dear Fabbers, thank you for allowing my words to flow and land safely. This is a spectacular, supportive community. Hugs.</div></p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172935 Thu, 18 Feb 2021 04:25:49 +0000 Suz 2172935@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><b>Mainelady,</b> you are such a lovely presence here on this forum. Your family, friends, and students are so lucky to have you in their lives. Your thoughtful, reflective, kind, loving/ connected and sometimes sassy nature comes across strong and sure in your clothing choices. I think of your trips with your twin, the joy you have always taken in making your pupils feel secure, and the delight you take in your accessories. Also the courage/ strength you have shown in going natural with your hair when some around you may have questioned that.&nbsp;</p> <p>This has been such a tough year. I'm sure many of us are undergoing changes that are still hard to articulate. But you are eloquent!&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172892 Wed, 17 Feb 2021 23:51:12 +0000 Angie 2172892@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>WOW :)</p> <p><b>Mainelady</b>, his was an emotional read, and I am moved by your story and revelations.&nbsp;I can feel your heartfelt liberation, and am thrilled that you are moving to an even better authentic self. SOOO empowering for you, and inspiring to others! Thanks for sharing your wisdom.&nbsp;</p> <p>YES, these revelations are well reflected in your style, and the way you describe yourself is just how I perceive you to be. YOU ARE GOING LIKE A BOEING. Enjoy these meaningful changes :)</p> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172636 Wed, 17 Feb 2021 10:30:46 +0000 Mainelady 2172636@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thank you Lisa P and Sal.<br />&nbsp; Definitely in a season of change, Jenn. Some of these changes are of my own choosing, so even though they mean adapting, it is on my own terms and overdue.<br />&nbsp; So true, Kaelyn. Exciting times are ahead for our family!<br />&nbsp; Joy, setting boundaries has always been easy when I have been advocating for others, but uncomfortable when doing it for myself. I am growing much stronger n that regard! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172599 Wed, 17 Feb 2021 05:33:39 +0000 Anonymous 2172599@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Wonderful test, Mainelady. You are a treasure, as a teacher and to those who know you. Age has made me more aware and more outspoken about politics and religion., or any other topic that I have strong opinions about. I have kept my mouth shut about how grandchildren are being raised. Set your boundaries so that they work for you. Pet training has a lot to teach parents. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172555 Wed, 17 Feb 2021 01:11:32 +0000 Kaelyn 2172555@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This was a wonderful read, especially your thoughts on self-approval. Our values are influenced by the values of those around us, but in the end, we're in charge of where we settle!</p> <p>Wishing you and DH a very happy retirement, and the best of luck to your son as he takes on more responsibility with the business. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172542 Wed, 17 Feb 2021 00:39:35 +0000 Jenn 2172542@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>It sounds like you're in a season of change, and your style is reflecting that! Everything you've said tracks with what you've shown of yourself here in the forum...even the changes over the past year! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172533 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 23:45:38 +0000 Sal 2172533@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thanks for sharing this Mainelady - a lovely introspective read.&nbsp; I can see these elements of your personality in your style. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172399 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 15:53:58 +0000 Mainelady 2172399@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Thank you, suntiger. I am so lucky to have my students, They are bright rays of sunshine and help me to focus on what is important.<br />&nbsp; Thank you Bijou. Teaching definitely has challenges this year. I am grateful that our district is committed to being in-person as much as possible. We have only had to quarantine small groups or go full remote one time. In person allows for better instructional time and the ability to be responsive in the moment. It is incredibly tiring though.<br />&nbsp; Helena, I have also thought us kindred spirits in ways.&nbsp;<div>&nbsp; Well, said,Rachylou. I felt the struggle long before I was ready to work my way through it.<br />&nbsp; RobinF. I’m glad my words have you thinking about “getting there”. It is a true joy to finally be finding myself.<br />&nbsp; Thank you LaPed. I am hoping to rediscover my boundless energy. I think it is ready to emerge as new adventures unfold.<br />&nbsp; Shevia, so true. It’s age comes wisdom, or clearer vision. Either way, I am grateful to be heading in new directions,<br />&nbsp; Thank you, Nikki. Trusting myself when creating our homes made the processes fun and invigorating, even though it was work. Now I am trusting my instincts for other aspects of my life, too. I like this growing confidence.<br />&nbsp;Runcarla, I think you are right. Despite the many challenges and changes, I am discovering this phase of growth to be empowering.&nbsp;</div> </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172393 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 15:37:34 +0000 Anonymous 2172393@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Lovely to read, and as shevia said, it reflects what I think I know of you just from here on the forum. &nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172392 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 15:33:01 +0000 Carla 2172392@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p><u></u><u></u><u></u>I noticed some loosening of externally imposed norms with your hair journey, including experimenting with your hair’s natural texture. &nbsp;No matter how well you prepare, retirement is a big bounce! &nbsp;You will come out of it wanting to be even more true to who you are! </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172390 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 15:25:00 +0000 Anonymous 2172390@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Showcasing your personality in your homes and now your clothing is awesome! Love the evolution </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172368 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 14:42:57 +0000 Jaime 2172368@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Again I am impressed with how well this self description corresponds with the impression I have of you - yes from your posts and comments, but also from your style. And I always appreciate reading how age brings the wisdom to seek out the approval of oneself over others. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172363 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 14:39:40 +0000 unfrumped 2172363@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Such a good reflection! Thank you for sharing. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172354 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 14:05:45 +0000 LaPed 2172354@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Lovely to read about your ongoing evolution. Jeans and hoodies with diamonds and pearls sounds like a good place to be! Congratulations on retirement, and I hope you're able to celebrate it safely with your students and colleagues. Looking forward to hearing where your boundless energy and compassion will lead you next.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172339 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 13:30:31 +0000 RobinF 2172339@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>This was a great read - I found myself nodding along with a lot and saying "I need to get there" to others. Great news about the impending retirement!&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172336 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 13:26:43 +0000 rachylou 2172336@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Yes. I see that. It’s an interesting tension in life - warm but guarded, appropriate yet authentic. All qualities with value. Qualities that seem somewhat in opposition, but they don’t have to be in as much opposition as, well, my young self had it(!) </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172333 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 13:20:56 +0000 Helena 2172333@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Love this Mainelady, and I feel we are somewhat kindred spirits as I relate to a lot of what you said. Your style has always spoken to me of gentle refinement with a good dose of practicality, accented with fun, meaning and beauty.&nbsp; </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172320 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 12:50:35 +0000 Bijou 2172320@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Mainlady - What a joy to read!</p> <p>You are one very beautiful, elegant lady and your personality is just as gorgeous. I have missed you and it is good to hear that you are having a break - teaching during Covid must be incredibly difficult. Best wishes for your transition to retirement. </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172319 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 12:43:36 +0000 Anonymous 2172319@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>Love this! It definitely shows through in your style! I think your students are very lucky to have you </p> https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/dare-i-delve-into-my-beliefs-values-and-personality#post-2172316 Tue, 16 Feb 2021 12:38:49 +0000 Mainelady 2172316@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ <p>I have so enjoyed reading the reflections shared on Angie’s blog and in the forum. I am on vacation this week and today is a stormy day. This is a perfect opportunity fo pause and do some thinking.<br />&nbsp; For a while I have been feeling like my life is full of contradictions, a little hectic and disorganized, demanding and exhausting. On some fronts, that is true. Covid has dramatically altered how we live, how we stay healthy, how we enjoy life. It has made me question many things, but I can’t say I have found comfortable answers for everything just yet.<br />&nbsp; I’m going to do what I do: pour it out and then reread and reflect. WARNING this is likely to be long.<br />The world has changed and so have I. So much has shifted. &nbsp;I know that with change comes growth. We are not stagnant. We are influenced by our surroundings and we evolve.&nbsp;<div>&nbsp; My beliefs: Style speaks. It is nonverbal communication and it can be powerful. I believe that style is also about respect. Respect for self and respect for others. I do believe that dressing appropriately for events is important. I also believe (more strongly so in recent years) that my style needs to reflect <i>me. </i>I need to be my best, most authentic self.<br />&nbsp; For much of my life I was groomed to fit in, do what was expected, consider what others would think of me. Awareness can be helpful, but conformity can be stifling. I was very proper, appropriate, careful, mindful and kind as I wove my way through the world, dressing to meet the expectations of others. I learned to present myself well and I made good first impressions. My style was structured, classic, detail oriented, precise and on the dressy side. I am still appropriate, mindful and kind, mostly proper and careful, but I have found the place in time where I am comfortable being authentic. Over time, I have relaxed into who I really am. My style has relaxed, too. I still like structure, but I also like softness, a bit of sass and a lot of fun. When I look in the mirror I see warmth, kindness, confidence and happiness. I no longer need to have those attributes bestowed upon me by the approval of others. My own approval is what matters. Late life lessons.<br />&nbsp; My values: my heart beats for my family, for humanity. Compassion, kindness, empathy, love and joy are lifestyle choices. Some days it takes an intense amount of energy to practice this lifestyle. Covid has generated a great deal of fear in me. &nbsp;I have always taken on more responsibility than was mine (another grooming from childhood) and for the most part, I can’t complain. I am a problem solver. I am productive. I &nbsp; am dependable and I get things done. However, feeling the responsibility to keep others safe is massive. It is exhausting. It is important, so I carry on and try to balance it with self care.&nbsp;<br /></div><div>&nbsp; As I think about this, maybe what I have been thinking has been contradictory has actually been about working to find the balance necessary to function optimally in this changing world.<br />&nbsp; My personality? That might be evolving, too. I have always been warm, personable, somewhat outgoing, but also guarded. &nbsp;I was incredibly mindful of how things I said or did might be perceived. It finally dawned on me that no one is watching me that closely! I have great instincts and instead of second guessing them, I trust them. This new habit has served me very well. I think it has actually had some healing and freeing &nbsp;benefits. Another late life lesson.<br />&nbsp;For decades, our homes showed my personality. Warm, welcoming, casually elegant, never fussy, open and bright, yet cozy too. It has taken me longer to allow my personality to shine through my clothing. Out in the world I still had an extra layer of protection from the judgement of others. Gosh, a lot of energy went into those outfit decisions.<br />&nbsp; 2020 forced a lot of changes, but through those I have learned to love more deeply, let go of people and things that were weighing me down and to focus on what really matters. DH and I are working to stay healthy and focus on our future. I will be retiring in June. DH will gradually transition towards his retirement, giving more responsibility and leadership of the company to our son.<br />&nbsp; My current style is relaxed, yet refined. I crave and appreciate comfort, but in my heart I love a little glam, luxe and polish. My clothing is softer, a bit more fluid and less fitted. Ooh accessories? Of course! Let me pull on a double hoodie, a pair of jeans, tall boots and diamonds and pearls. Contradictory or balance? I’m not sure. I just know that it feels right. I’m going to trust my instincts.</p> <p>And give myself permission to change my mind.</p> <p>if you read this far, you are a super hero and I appreciate your commitment.&nbsp;</div><div>Warmest wishes, dear Fabbers. I’ve been missing you.</div> </p>