Clear and Concise: Writing Tips for Simple, Powerful Prose

Happy weekend!

Hi friends — AnnMarie here with this week’s roundup.

The weather in North Carolina has been unpredictable. Last week felt like winter, and this week feels like summer: sunny and in the 80s. We’re loving it, though spring pollen has coated everything in a fine yellow dust.

How’s the weather where you are? Is it feeling like spring yet?

Next week we’ll be in Madison, Indiana for the Social Gathering Retreat. We’ll serve as mentors and take headshots for the attendees. Anne will be behind the camera while I handle setups and styling to make sure everyone looks their best.

Here are a few thoughts from our week:

  1. I was glad the college basketball season wrapped up with Baylor beating Gonzaga — partly because it means we won’t have that game on every night at our house anymore. My husband reminded me that baseball season follows right away, so it’s Mets time again!
  2. Do you pack ahead of time when you travel? I usually wait until the day before, but I’m leaving this weekend with Emma for a dance convention and won’t be back until late Sunday night. With our Indiana trip starting Monday morning, I have to plan ahead this time. Send tips!
  3. Women’s retreats are great for both business and soul. Getting away with like-minded, hardworking, self-employed women recharges and motivates. If you have questions about the Social Gathering Retreat, ask us — we’re happy to share our experience.

We’ve been busy preparing to be away next week. Here’s what we shared on the blog this week to inspire you:

Looking for meal ideas? Check out Anne’s healthy summer family meal suggestions for balanced, flavor-forward dinners the whole family will enjoy.

Low carb healthy dinner plate with grilled pork chop, grilled asparagus, and grilled mushrooms and red onions

AnnMarie updated a traditional foyer with a casual Wayfair makeover you have to see. The transformation from formal to relaxed is fun — stay tuned for the full reveal coming soon.

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Mother’s Day is approaching. We put together an ultimate gift guide with thoughtful ideas for many tastes and budgets — an easy place to find something for every mom you’re shopping for.

simply2moms AnnMarie and Anne Spring 2021

If you’re preparing for personal brand headshots, Anne has a helpful guide on what to wear and how to plan. As a professional photographer, she shares practical tips to help you look and feel your best during the session.

Woman wearing a sweater set and statement necklace for personal brand photography photo session

Enjoy the rest of your week — we’ll “talk” to you next week!

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