I've been too busy playing opera to write.  I really should be heading to the shower so we can play an afternoon Carmen.  Instead, I'm making time to write just for fun.  All because of a darling bit of fluff.

I don't even know what category to choose for this post.  I bought it at the opera gift shop so it's a bit like music.  But it's also inspiring my muse so maybe it's even more like creativity.  It's a little bit like a makeover so it fits well in Courageous Communication.  P.S. to Inside Out Makeover.

No matter the category, I just have to share.  A colleague told me about these headpieces a couple of weeks ago.  I finally made it to the gift shop earlier this week to see for myself.  I tried one on and was instantly transformed!  So cute!  But where would I wear it?  Later in the pit, I excitedly shared my find.  A friend suggested I might have to create opportunities for wearing something that made me so happy.  That was all I needed to hear.  Last night I returned with money in hand. 

Fascinators!  Recently in the public eye due to a beautiful and stylish Duchess, these are ethereal confections for your head.  Set at a jaunty angle they add charm and whimsy.  All tulle and feathers and lace--try one on and you won't be able to stop smiling. 

An opera house employee had just arrived last night with fresh stock of hair accessories--the seventh of the season!  There were piles of fascinators.  So many that it was hard to choose.  But then, they are all so darling you really can't go wrong.  My husband was with me when I shopped.  I asked if he liked them.  He said he liked how much they make me smile.  

#3 Power Wear

Third in a series on giving yourself an Inside-Out Makeover, this step encourages you to find your special power garment and wear it to radiate confidence and authority.

I didn't notice my new attitude until this spring.  Just like the previous year, my husband gave me a shoe shopping trip for my birthday.   This time it was easy to choose.  I'd heard so much about the barefoot running shoes Vibrum Five Fingers, I couldn't wait to try them.  It was love at first step.  I felt powerful and I felt free.  In touch with nature I relished feeling the earth beneath my feet.  Athletic and strong I was ready for challenge.  Pliant and vulnerable I quickly adapted to the varied terrain.

Last year's gift was another story.  I had barely celebrated my birthday when Mom's health took a turn for the worse and she died 5 days later.  It was weeks before I was in the mood to shop for birthday shoes.  But when I finally did, I made an interesting choice.  I picked tough chick shoes.  Black patent, strappy, towering heels covered in studs.  Don't mess with me shoes.  Armor for my feet.  Although what I was really trying to protect was my heart.

Last year:  warrior.  This year:  road warrior.  Anyone who knows me is familiar with my love of shoes.  But I was still surprised to see my confidence (or lack of) so obviously demonstrated in my footwear.  And that got me thinking about power wear.

Wonder Woman has her unbreakable bracelets.  My kids had blankies.  There are days when we all could use an extra measure of self-confidence.  Your power garment makes you feel invincible and keeps you safe.  It's an item of clothing that makes you feel your best.  It can be a signature item or your own little secret.  It might be a special gift or a cherished heirloom.  It's significance is your symbol of bravura.   Whether it's your treasured earrings, those fabulous boots or even the most delicious perfume I'll bet you already know your power wear.  Put it on the next time you need a boost.  Better yet, wear it every day.  

(While researching this post I stumbled on the groovy theme from pop star show "Thank Your Lucky Stars" written by Peter Knight and the Nightriders.  It's too good not to share.  And I think I just found my new personal theme music.) 

#2 Accept Compliments and Give Thanks

Second in a series on giving yourself an Inside-Out Makeover,  this step asks for awareness and acknowledgement. 

It's easy as pie for me to be my own worst critic.  I've had years of practice.  In Accepting Myself I wondered how lovely I'd feel if I saw myself through my husband's eyes.  Your spouses, coworkers and friends are constantly sending positive feedback.  Listen carefully to your reaction.   Rather than disagreeing, stand a little taller and say, "thank you."  Believe them!  They love you.

And while you're at it, be grateful.   Because your gaze is directed outward you may find this simpler than accepting compliments.  Just take notice of the lovely things that happen each day.  I like to note the smallest details; it makes the big picture much rosier.  All that really matters is you will be sending more gratitude into the air.  And that's good for all of us.

Then add these moments to your memory banks.  Remember the good things about you.  Remember the good things that happen each day.  Allow them to become a part of you.  You have the power to change your wiring.  Rhonda Britten in Fearless Living asks us to spend time each night before bed making a list of compliments and gratitudes.  Imagine a special book filled with wonderful thoughts about you!  Putting the words  in writing makes them even more powerful.