Wow—it’s been 4 months since I posted a photo—and 4 months since I went shopping in a B&M store. Last year I wanted to add a lot of color—my wardrobe seemed drab. This year I’m drawn to neutrals—maybe I overdid it on strong colors. I’ve been caught in the dragnet of sales as well—how can I resist a hunted item half off?

So Friday I dressed up, put on make-up, and headed out into the sunshine to the mall. DH caught me as I left and took some photos—I thought I looked pale, but he insisted I looked good.

One weird thing: in the first photo I am struck by how much I look like my mother—more the expression than actual features. Never noticed it before.

I had my hair trimmed the day before. I’m growing it longer for summer. My dermatologist says I’m getting too much sun on the back of my neck even though I use sunscreen there. She suggested I wear a scarf or bandana when I’m out puttering or walking—not my favorite thing in August! My hair is still mixed light and darker gray, sometimes it looks blonde, sometimes light brown. All natural, all grown out.

I’ve lost some of the weight I gained in the last 2 years--all on the belly. I’ve notice in photos lately that my legs look skinnier and skinnier by comparison. This is not so obvious in these photos.

##1-2 Bought this BR blazer 2 years ago. Lightweight wool, “camo floral.” I didn’t wear it much last year for some reason. Generally BR blazers fit me well. I tried on 3 different tops before I settled on the Boden poppy Tilda sweater. Nic and Zoe pull on pants, and last year’s Munro Lulu slip on sneakers.

#3 Last year’s denim jacket and NYDJ. I think that’s a J Crew tee. Two years ago I wanted a white denim jacket, everything was too heavy or boxy on me. So this year I got this same jacket in white, on sale, Charter Club Macy’s. I look better in slightly fitted jackets. Lulu sneakers in a different color.

#4 Knit Boden Blazer—I bought this in a 10 instead of an 8 because last year’s 8 now seems too snug. Despite being a knit, this is a solid, structured jacket. It’s also longer than I usually wear, so I’m figuring out the right bottoms. It will be worn a lot at night--especially for night classes. It's a bit big, but I can wear a sweater under it.

##5-6 Boden corduroy jacket, size 8, less fitted. I love this color, & it was on a big sale and discount. More like a lightweight “shorty” coat. In background next to the fence you can see is our resident turkey. She was kicked out of the flock last year, and I hope she’s been mated this year. I worry a coyote or mountain lion got her when she doesn't show up for a few days.

#7 Betsy the turkey.

#8 I wake up to this view out my bedroom window. Too much rain this year to do much pruning on the wisteria trailing along the back fence.

But, #9, it turned out well anyway. Except that I am more allergic to it this year.