Things I learned in 2011

We’ve talked about things accomplished in 2011. Let’s take a moment to reflect on lessons learned.

1. Control top pantyhose/tights/Spanx/shapewear are a 30-something gal’s best friend.
2. There is such a thing as “too much of a good thing.”
3. Stress can still make your skin break out, even this far post-adolescence.
4. Good books are actually pretty hard to come by. When you find a great one, treasure it.
5. It is totally worth it to hand write notes.
6. Some things are worth the extra cash: the good tights, the real leather shoes, the better sheets. It all comes down to fabric and craftsmanship.
7. Reaching a goal and refusing to reward oneself defeats the point.
8.  Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.
9. Laughter really is the best medicine.
10.  Call your mom/best friend/doctor. It always makes things better.
11. Dentistry should be used as a preventative measure.
12. It is worth it to take ten more minutes in the morning to look your best.
13. Small extravagances, like driving to work, can make all the difference.
14. Don’t buy a piece of clothing unless it fits perfectly.
15.  Use the good stuff on a daily basis. You never know when you’ll break it. Once you do, you’ll wish you’d enjoyed it more.
16. If something really doesn’t feel like the right thing, speak up.
17. “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” Spoken by William Morris, these words are very helpful in creating a home that you love.
18.  If you’re at the good restaurant, order the thing you really want. Even if the other person orders it, too. You’ll regret it later if you don’t, and you probably won’t have the cash to go back any time soon.
19. Plane tickets make good presents.
20.  Pay attention to what’s happening around you. It will increase your enjoyment of life, help you avoid mishaps, and probably give you a few great stories to tell.