This post is brought to you by a Healthy Slice sponsor.

One of the first caveats I disclose about myself when talking about clothes or home is that I have zero sense of style. I think I say this as almost a “beat them to the punch” tactic of self defense. I cringe at the thought of posting an outfit or decorative home piece, imagining someone may be scoffing at me, believing that I think I know what’s best in fashion and trends. And goodness knows I don’t. I think I just heard bell-bottom jeans are making a come back? I knew I should have saved those Limited Too jeans from 7th grade! Anyway, I have a point to this.

I’m 32 years old and no longer try to fit the bill of trendsetter (thank goodness). I don’t know what is trendy, in vogue or what I am “supposed” to like. And that it’s OK. I may not be able to design a model home or a runway-worthy outfit, but it’s about time I stop self-deprecating enough to give myself credit for what I do know how to do.

Pillows

I do know how to wear clothes that make me feel good. I know how to turn my family’s house into a home. I know we value cleanliness and comfort, and that we have a penchant for dark wood and light blues. I know nature makes us happy and bringing in flowers from the yard just feels right.

Apothecary Jar 

I am learning that surrounding ourselves with colors, patterns and objects that mean something to us not only creates joy but also makes our surroundings reflect our personalities. It took me 6 years of living in this house to replace a painting I hated because I didn’t know what to put in its place. I didn’t want to choose the “wrong” thing. When I saw this framed photograph of sailboats, I suddenly didn’t feel the need to text my gurus and ask if it was “OK” to hang up. I just knew I liked it.

Photography Art / Pillows

And you know what? I smile every time I walk by it.

Globe Print

I think I might finally be understanding what everyone is talking about with fashion and design. It’s not about what you’d find in the latest magazine, at least not for me. It is about what makes you feel like you are expressing yourself and makes you feel happy.

In our house that means a couch we all want to flop down on together. It’s cozy pillows to snuggle up on. It’s touches of the outdoors. It’s figurines that celebrate big moments in our lives and pictures of our family.

Pillows

I’ve longed understood the value of eating first with your eyes and making food look fresh and delicious. It has always brought me joy. Why shouldn’t my wardrobe and home do the same?

Place mats

I’m partnering up with Minted today to share some of the wonderful items I found in their Minted Home section. Yes, the same makers of the most gorgeous Christmas cards, birthday invitations and other stationery also offer a plethora of art, home decor, holiday and party accessories (so cute!).

For you to fully take advantage of all the incredible array of offerings, Minted is giving away a $250 gift card good towards anything they offer to a Healthy Slice reader. That would easily cover your Christmas cards, refurnish your couch with adorable (and soft!) new pillows, cover all the decor for that party you are planning or secure new art work to be hung on your wall. The possibilities are endless!

To enter the drawing for $250 credit, CLICK HERE. It’s only open to Healthy Slice readers and the giveaway will run through Wednesday, June 29.

This giveaway is only open to legal residents of the 50 United States and District of Columbia who are at least 18 years old as of the date of entry, except officers, directors, members, and employees of the Sponsor, the judging organization (if applicable), or any other party associated with the development or administration of this Promotion, and the immediate family (i.e., parents, children, siblings, spouse), and persons residing in the same household, as such individuals. This Promotion is void outside the 50 United States and the District of Columbia, and where prohibited.

Now chat with me…

Does your home decor bring you joy and make you feel comfortable?

What is your favorite home furnishing or piece of decor that you own?

What would you change?

I still want to swap our curtains and replace our living room rug. Anyone have a great tip on where to by an area rug that won’t cost an arm and a leg? I wish Minted sold them!