#redeemcreativescollective

[serenity-and-style]

Serenity, Style, and a Dash of Chaos – Where Have I Been?

Well, well, well… look who’s back! I know, I know—I’ve been MIA, and you’ve probably been wondering, “Did she run off to an exotic island? Start a new career in international espionage? Or maybe just get swallowed by an avalanche of fabulous throw pillows?” All valid theories, by the way.But let me put those wild imaginations to rest. Life, in all its unpredictable glory, decided to serve up a…

[serenity-and-style]

The Great Church Adventures: From Childhood Boredom to Adult Salvation

Growing up, Sundays were for two things: cartoons and church. One of these was undeniably the pinnacle of the week, and the other involved sitting quietly in uncomfortable clothes while an adult talked for what felt like an eternity. Guess which one was church?Every Sunday morning, my Daddy would engage in a ritualistic battle, yelling for me to get myself and my little sister my sister into our…

[serenity-and-style]

The "Feels Like" Madness and Surviving Louisiana Heat

So, today was one of those days where you step outside and feel like you’ve walked straight into an oven. You know, the kind of heat where you question all life choices that led you to live in Louisiana. The temperature was a “comfortable” 93 degrees, but then there’s this little thing called the “feels like” temperature, which decided to hit a sizzling 112. Let’s talk about that for a second.…

[serenity-and-style]

A Dedication to Carl Thompson, 1961-2022

To my beloved husband, Carl Thompson,From the moment we met, we were inseparable. Our love story was not without its challenges; there were times when anger and pride kept us apart for weeks. Yet, love always found a way to bring us back together. Within a couple of years, we knew we were meant to be married. Because of our parents’ objections to us being together, we moved to Florida with just…

[serenity-and-style]

Jewels of Drool

Let me tell you a story about Miss Widener. She was such a funny lady—a little bitty thing with really short hair. She was kind and smart as a whip. She really told it like it was. We’d spend time with her kids in the summertime. She had three boys, and I especially loved the youngest, Paul.One summer afternoon, we were home with my dad. We lived in a tiny trailer. Daddy had just quit drinking…

[serenity-and-style]

Just Do It

Growing up, my little sister was the bold one. She’d say and do things I would never dare to. It was like her filter was missing, or her “don’t-do-it-ness” was just nonexistent. She’d ask over-the-top questions or make outrageous statements, leaving me cringing because I knew trouble was looming. It was pretty funny, in retrospect.My dad, who raised us two girls by himself, had no patience…

[serenity-and-style]

Attitude, Style, and God's Humor: Embracing Summer with a Smile

Hey there, friends! I’ll admit, I’ve been a bit AWOL from my daily writing routine lately—blame it on a pesky summer cold and a dance with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. But fear not, I’m back with a renewed sense of humor and a few style tips straight from the heart.Staying Cool in Every Sense of the WordAs the New Orleans heat cranks up, let’s talk about staying cool—both in fashion and attitude.…

[serenity-and-style]

This is for Charity and That's No Bull!

San Fermin in Nueva Orleans, commonly known as the “Running of the Bulls,” is a playful and unique twist on the traditional Spanish event held in Pamplona. This New Orleans version takes place from July 12-14, 2024, and involves participants dressed in white with red accessories being “chased” by roller derby players wielding plastic bats…

[serenity-and-style]

It's Free

“It’s free!” 💯“Free? What do you mean ‘free’?” 🥴“I mean totally free.” 💯“That sounds too good to be true. It must not be very good.” 😑“No, it’s the best thing you could ever have, and you could never pay for it!” 💯😯We see “free” everywhere: Buy 1, get 1 free. Buy 2, get 1 free. Free with coupon. Free with purchase. We either undervalue it and pass it up or overvalue it and take everything we can…

[serenity-and-style]

Hot minute, Hot Mess, Staying Cool in this Weather...

Hey there, fabulous readers,I know, I know. It’s been a hot minute since my last post. The truth is, I’ve been down for the count with my lovely, constant friend, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and a cold that decided to crash the party. So, yeah, I’ve been pretty much wiped out. It’s like my immune system threw a wild bash and forgot to send me an invite. Yesterday was the first time I managed to…

[serenity-and-style]

Happy Birthday, Momma...

My mother was truly amazing. Thoughtful and kind, she inspired everyone who had the privilege to know her. She never gave up on anything, embodying resilience and determination in every facet of her life. She had that unique blend of Louisiana class and Texas sass, a combination that made her both elegant and spirited. Her unwavering spirit and heartfelt kindness were a beacon of strength and…

[serenity-and-style]

The Timeless Charm of Southern Porch Sitting

There’s something magical about sitting on a porch in the South. It’s more than just a place to relax—it’s a tradition, a way of life, and a social hub where stories are shared, laughs are had, and the world’s problems are solved, at least in conversation. In the South, the porch is where life slows down, and people connect in ways that are both simple and profound.The Art of Porch SittingFor…

[serenity-and-style]

Blooming with Strength: A Childhood Lesson from Gerber Daisies

When I was a little girl, Gerber daisies were my absolute favorite flowers. Their bright, cheerful petals seemed to hold the promise of endless summer days and boundless joy. My Aunt Magdoline, who lived in San Antonio, had a garden filled with these beautiful blossoms, and it was my own personal paradise.One sunny afternoon, I remember sitting on the porch with my Aunt, sipping lemonade and…

[serenity-and-style]

Thrift Shop on a Mission and with a Heart ❤️

Hope Closet: A Thrift Store on a Mission and with a Heart ❤️Nestled beside Celebration Church in Metairie, Louisiana, Hope Closet stands as a beacon of hope and generosity, embodying the essence of community-driven service. More than just a thrift store, Hope Closet is a testament to what can be achieved when faith, compassion, and dedication unite under the leadership of Cherise Deeley. Her…

[serenity-and-style]

Embracing Style, Class, and Faith: The Southern Christian Woman's Guide

Being a southern Christian woman is a unique blend of grace, charm, and unshakeable faith. It’s about embracing a sense of style and class while reflecting the love of Christ in all we do. Whether you’re attending church, hosting a dinner, or simply running errands, there’s a way to carry yourself that speaks volumes about who you are and Whom you serve. Let’s explore how to intertwine our…