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2020 By Grace Lanier I got glasses for the first time today. Or rather, Glasses gotme. Unfortunately, the year 2020 brought the end of my 20/20 vision and now my eyes need a little boost to do their best.  Super ironic, with the year being 2020, and this is the year my 20/20 vision chooses to abandon me. I can’t help but wonder what my younger self would have felt about glasses. Would I have been ashamed to not see properly?  Would I have panicked about the cost?  I am certain there was a time where I would have found glasses to be nerdy (thankfully I have left junior high in my rear-view mirror). Not so long ago I would have claimed they make me look older.  Now, how exactly does my current self feel about this news?  Am I stressing over picking “THE PERFECT” pair?  Possibly. Possibly???   Probably. Definitely.   Yes, and what was the subject of Bible Study this week (as in 2 short days ago)?  Perfection?  Perfection, and women’s desire/duty, to achieve it (self, husband or mother) imposed. Aren’t I supposed to show my eyes (read me) some grace? Am I not worthy of the medical need of glasses?  And why does this news feel so icky and the absolute wrong way to start the new year much less decade?   Fortunately, I get myself together and see these glasses as a new pair of shoes; they need to function and look good. Period. Suddenly, I feel the need to give my eyes a quick pep talk, Hey there, Eyes. Let these glasses put a little twinkle in your day. The first few pairs, I don’t even really “see” on my face. I am absorbed in seeing myself with glasses and consumed with my own vanity. I watch as all the people, women predominantly, peruse the various choices of glasses on the never-ending wall. Then I meet Dyonna, the optician assigned to me.  She wears a cranberry crepe dress that flatters her figure, and her glasses and jewelry complete the package.  Turns out she got into this business because as a child, her family couldn’t afford proper glasses for her.  She turned her struggle into a career, and I feel this as she is helping me.  She suggests and comments, all totally honest per her words.  Silent cheer spreads across my face in the form of a smile, because glasses matter! I matter! Suddenly, I amexcited. Together, Dyonna and I are going to find a pair that matches my skin color and face shape and personality and all the little pieces that make me, me. And these glasses are going to make me look gooood. Suddenly my diagnosis isn’t so bad, and it will not only enhance my vision, but me.  After all, I am not marrying the glasses, simply wearing them as an accessory.   Decision made. I choose smaller frames in a light brown color with hot pink on the inside which “reflects a little blush” on your cheeks. Well, my Momma always says everyone needs a little pink on their cheeks and I need a little blonde in my hair, so I instantly know she would approve (and she was right on both accounts). My husband is so proud of me for going to the doctor (not loving all things medical if I am honest) and accepting the news, and actually choosing glasses. I honestly think the glasses could be purple leopard, and he would love them. And now, I wait. Something wonderful is happening. I can’t wait for them to come in…the glasses...my glasses...which I am to only wear when looking at the computer. I hope my glasses will help me use this year, 2020, to see myself clearly.  Now I want to share my gift with all, to give you a new set of eyes and clear vision. Eyes that see your wonderful attributes – those you show and those you hide.I want you to join me and take the time to listen to your soul and your body. See what you have never slowed down long enough to see. The other day amidst work and life I just stopped. I walked out onto my front porch. I looked at the trees and the leaves and listened to the sound of my neighbor’s flag flapping. I smelled our fire, one of my favorite smells ever. And I was thankful eventhoughtful. I wondered why don’t I do this more often?  Why do I have to be ready to explode before I stop?  Why don’t I see what is going on inside of me?  Or do I see it, and not allocate the time to address it? Today I will begin to “see” with new eyes and glasses.  I got glasses and glasses “get” me! Won’t you join me and take a fresh look at yourself and “see” you?  I got glasses and glasses “get” me!

January marks the month of new beginnings and resolutions.  Often times our best laid plans may last a month or two before we start gravitating back to our old ways.  So why not resolve this January to initiate a new year of permanent and positive change, and self-love.  Change that is not subject to renewal every January but real change to transcend the years.  Little reminders along the way can help us to maintain self-awareness and keep us on track emotionally, mentally, physically and spiritually.  By staying the course and maintaining good habits we build mental strength and fortitude; we empower ourselves to endure from month to month, year to year, over the course of a lifetime no matter how many years we might have.    We live in a world where there is so much judgment and pressure to be a certain way, have certain views and even dress a certain way, just to fit in.  As women, we should not be afraid to have a voice and live the life that we desire. No judgements.  Because you have learned and lived the truth, permission and approval come from YOU alone. Our mission is to empower women to love and accept themselves just as they are.   Join our journey and reconnect with yourself this year by creating positive, permanent change this month.  Building good habits starts with setting small goals.  Little achievements along the way that we correlate with happiness.  We have a saying in our house “If you can dream it, you can achieve it.”  Don’t be afraid of failure just simply set the milestones and then knock them down one by one. Make sure you treat yourself along the way. Go get that latte, pedicure or even a new shirt. Don’t forget about you and the success from achieving your goals. Make 2020 your year to start a chain reaction of goal conquering and happiness that will generate reliable dividends month after month, year after year.  We sent around an email on the first of the year suggesting that you come up with a “Word of the Year”.  We highlighted several important reasons for choosing a Word of the Year but in a nutshell, it really boils down to a simple daily reminder to help keep you on track throughout the year.  We offered to imprint your Word on our pure silver tag so you could hang it on your key chain as a solid, constant reminder or feel it in your fingers to set daily intentions.  Imagine those sweet words – your words – stacking up on little polished coins year after year, enduring reminders of your timeless beauty and commitment to permanent change.Just like when you collect those medals after running a race, be proud of them and remember that you are amazing.      Evolve every year to the person you are truly meant to be.   Resolve this January to initiate a new year of permanent and positive change, and self-love.  “Liv and B” YOU, the instrument of change for a lifetime.  I found this lovely quote on Pinterest and I wanted to share this:  

Pop the champagne!  It’s time to say goodbye to 2019 and say hello to Liv & B your best Self in 2020!  There’s something refreshing and exciting about turning the page, closing a chapter and seeing all the possibilities for the New Year.  A fresh start, a clean slate, a new beginning, and a new chance at being the best YOU possible.  For the past three years we at Liv & B have started the year off by choosing a Word of the Year to align with our brand and vision of supporting, celebrating, and serving the evolved woman.     CULTIVATE is my word for 2020.     Merriam-Webster defines Cultivate as: To foster the growth of something; to improve by labor, care, or study; to further encourage.    To sincerely cultivate relationships takes time, energy and commitment.  This includes relationships of all kinds: family, friends and other small business owners.  As a small business owner, I want to cultivate a positive and encouraging work environment for my contributors and collaborators; to foster personal growth in a dynamic team setting.  I also want to invest in myself (my mind, body and spirit) and have quality time to self-care. (Last year my word was balance, and it really helped me focus on not spending too much time on one thing.) I want to cultivate a community in my small business bringing all women alike to realize the imperfect is really perfect and that we love you just as you are in this moment. I want to help simplify your day, through weekly blog posts, redefined classic jewelry and handmade leather goods. I want to make a difference in the lives of the people in my community, like a sisterhood. What better way to do that than to make intentional investments in the things that matter most!   WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO CHOOSE A WORD OF THE YEAR?   1. It helps with goal planning and achievement. 2. Helps with connection to your inner badass self, and a subtle reminder that you can achieve anything you put your mind too. 3. Keeps mindset in the right place to have success with even the littlest of goals. 4. Provides a sweet daily reminder to continue on your path, even when it gets tough, and to remind you of why you are doing it in the first place. Pay it forward with your word. 5. INVEST in yourself. By doing this you will be able to give back to the community and prioritize your own life more sincerely. It will reduce stress, anxiety and negativity. Your inward focus will make you more outwardly positive and optimistic.   What word defines the year ahead for you and why?  Let me know, I would love to hear from you!   We’ll stamp your word onto a pure silver tag so you can hang it on your key chain as a constant reminder.  Hold it in your fingers for just a few seconds to set your daily intentions in your personal and professional life.  Invest in yourself and don’t give up!     Here is the link: https://livandb.com/collections/rings/products/word-of-the-year Here is a great list to get ideas and what word resonates with your state of mind and the intentions for 2020. Let's do this together!

All of October there are campaigns running for Breast Cancer awareness month, here at Liv & B we are recognizing something dear to my heart. Teen Suicide. Earlier this year my son, Brennan lost a dear friend to teen suicide. It racked our home and left an empty spot in our hearts for Jake VanVechten and his family. This month we are donating 10% of all sales to "The Happy Crew". My hope is to help those in need and I want you all to hear the story from The VanVechten family: In March of this year we lost our 15 year old son Jake to suicide. Jake was a sophomore at Valor Christian High School.  He loved graphic design, was a cross country and track runner, had good grades, and very opposed to drugs and alcohol. Jake started showing depression in early January and was immediately in counseling and group therapy. Everyone thought he was showing positive effects from treatment, however in late March he died by suicide. Since the loss of our beloved Jake, we have been working with a local organization called “The Happy Crew”. The mission of The Happy Crew is to destigmatize mental health issues and increase positive options available to teens in our community. Depression, anxiety, and suicide are major concerns facing many teens in communities throughout Colorado. The statistics are staggering! Suicide is the number one cause of death in Colorado for people aged 10-24. The suicide rate for this age group has doubled since 2006. (Colorado Health Institute). In Douglas County, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Youth Risk Behavior Survey 2015, 17% have considered suicide and we rank fifth in the nation for completed teen suicides. Our goal at Happy Crew is to build a coffee house named “Kakou” in Douglas County that would be a place for teens to feel safe (Kakou – Hawaiian for “all of us” and “we are in this together.”). Kakou (rhymes with taco) would be a space for youth to collaborate with mentors trained to listen to their concerns and a comfortable place for teens to identify their passions, talents and abilities, share their voice with their peers and build a diverse and inclusive community. A community to share a message: YOU MATTER YOU BELONG. After this devastating loss in our family, we are committed to helping solve this disastrous situation effecting families and communities across our country. Sincerely, Liz and Brian Van Vechten   "Happy Crew and our mission is to destigmatize mental health issues by creating community and sharing the message, “YOU MATTER, YOU BELONG”, especially among our peers.  We must remain diligent in our campaign: depression, anxiety, and suicide are major issues for our friends – Colorado ranks sixth in the nation for most teen deaths by suicide.  Too many of our peers face a daily struggle to talk about their mental health – we crusade to end the stigma and increase positive options for those facing mental health issues." www.thehappycrew.org If you would like to make a donation for this cause, please go directly to the Happy Crew Website.

Seriously, it really is my favorite party! You get to dress up, have copious amounts of champagne, hang with your favorite friends, meet new ones and get fabulous jewelry for every event or outfit! I totally plan ahead and get really awesome goodies as giveaways, made some special leather bags for purchases over $250, and did I mention lots of giveaways? This event is perfect for getting your holiday checklist complete. We will have bundle offers and special pricing on our Align collection. This year a super special customer, the talented Mrs Sarah Rollins will be hosting this exclusive event in her beautiful home in Fulshear, Texas. So PLEASE RSVP to her or me to ensure your spot at our event. Also a very special guest is traveling with me, the talented Cindy Peyton. She is an artist that makes one of a kind paintings and custom work too! So MARK your calendars for the event of the season, and don't delay on your RSVP's please. Bring a friend or too for extra raffle prizes!   See you there my friends! Angela XO

My mission at Liv & B is to empower women to love and Be loved completely, selflessly, and with conviction.  As mothers, we dedicate ourselves to our children, and to the happiness of our families.  We are passionate in our careers and intensely focused on crafting powerful life stories filled with courage, bravery, adventure..., unbridled love.  My own mother was creative, devoted,  encouraging; unabashedly herself.  Even without make-up or fancy clothes, she was beautifully feminine, strong, independent, selfless, wise.  She leaned on her intuition and unconditionally used her heart, traits I have always aspired to emulate. Who do you look up to? What do you want to Liv and B? Liv inspired and B unapologetically original. Liv and B you.     Take a look at our Manifesto, print it off and put it somewhere in your house and read it daily. Empower yourself, love yourself, and love yourself some more!   Shop our evolved line and feel the power when you put it on. Our Manifesto

I know that this is a bit overdue...In April we got the chance to shine in the Denver Life Magazine. April Issue! This was our write up! Classic, Redefined The jewelry and leather goods made by Liv & B are comfortable enough to wear everyday and stylish enough to transition into a night on the town. BY DENVER LIFE MAGAZINE - APRIL 1, 2019 Photo by Sharon Lewis There are great bags and jewelry, and then there are great bags and jewelry. The items made by Liv & B, an accessories company based in Highlands Ranch, fall squarely into the second category. Each bracelet, ring, necklace, bag, and pair of earrings is handmade by founder Angela Martin using ethically sourced, soft-as-butter leather (which Martin handpicks for its uniqueness), gemstones (including aquamarine, agate, moonstones, and labradorite), and mixed metals, including pure silver, sterling silver, and gold fill. Best of all, the pieces, which she often names after favorite customers, are easy to wear. “Classic redefined” is how Martin describes her pieces. “They are similar to classic pieces, but we try to have a different edge,” and they look great when layered. Photo by Sharon Lewis Martin (top left with a friend) started the company 15years ago while living in Alaska and has been working at it on and off while raising her two kids, Alivia and Brennan, for whom the company is named. Working in her home studio, she encourages customers to come experience her process and do a little shopping. “I love to get to know a person and design one-of-a-kind pieces for them.” Martin, who in February showed off her wares at the pre-Oscars celebrity gifting lounge at the W hotel in Beverly Hills, has just introduced a hand-dyed tote bag and will soon come out with a crossbody bag. “To me, jewelry and leather goods are not just accessories; they put a smile on your face and help you get through the day.” Liv & BHandcrafted leather accessories made in Highlands RanchInterested in ordering jewelry or other accessories from Liv & B? Use coupon code “DENVERLIFE19“ for 15 percent off your first order. https://denverlifemagazine.com/classic-redefined/

The thing about motherhood, there aren’t always any “right” answers.  Sometimes, that is a positive, encouraging women to find their own “right” for themselves and their families.  For those math and analytical minded folks who dream of an equation yielding an exact perfect answer, this can be particularly challenging. The old saying that which does not kill us makes us stronger is true. Motherhood makes us so strong.    Mothers are the first to have the opportunity to remind us that we can do anything we set our minds to. The quote “babies don’t come with instruction manuals, they come with moms”, was stitched on a zippered pouch. When my boys came into the world, my knowledge of raising tiny humans could not fill that zippered pouch.  Now, 16 years deep, my experiences could fill the store.  Potty training was SO HARD. Finally realizing the child had to want it for himself was the key to success.  Pretty sure that same theory reigns today.  Step one encouragement and empowerment, step two solo flight, step two in collaboration with step three being there when success isn’t instant or at all.   Years ago, one of my boys had a horrible cough that we couldn't kick with any allergy or asthma doctor or medication.  GI doctor turned to us, the parents, and said, "Its completely up to you.  You will need to find the balance."  Well, no pressure there.  He empowered and encouraged us to use our best judgement and do what was best for our child.  Aren't we always happier, more peaceful, when we figure out what works for us as women, and us as a family?  Finding our path, our way to do this thing called life.  When we are confident ourselves in our abilities, when navigating a new playground and arena, our children feel our confidence, and we embody security.  Grab that new mom next to you and offer to listen.    Remind her that she has got this!   Because Mom is a title, an unpaid job which is constantly evolving.  There is no finish line.  The goal is to raise emotionally stable and functioning members of society, but we are always someone's child. It’s hard to articulate what the feeling of belonging - of being a daughter feels like. My mother, with her southern isms, meticulous manners - “if you can’t say thank you, then you do not need to have it” and genteel ways make you want to sit and listen, unless you have the regrettable decision of crossing one of her children.  Then my sweet little Momma turns into a lion, a force ready for battle.  She was a caretaker in the beginning when my survival was literally thrust into her arms. A warrior in the teenage years trying to reign in this princess know it all.  A friend in college.  A mentor and friend in adult and motherhood.  She is quite simply the air, always there, always in for a kind word, looking out for me.  No matter how messy life gets, she is there, ending every conversation with, “anything I can do for you?”  Thing is, she is this way to all those around her, never wanting a thing in return.  My air and my angel; I am thankful for her!   Ever since my brother and I were grown and flown, Mom’s greatest wish is for us all to be back together on her birthday.  "I don't care when it happens, I just want us all to be together."  Momma calls, and we listen.  We recently celebrated her 73rdbirthday all together, and we celebrated Mom finding a new path after losing my Dad.   Suddenly, the roles are reversed, and it is ourturn to empower herto feel confident to tackle the many things he always handled.  To avoid looking at his empty seat at the dining room table, we set up card tables with tablecloths  on the deck with candles and timed dinner with the sunset.  As the birthday dinner conversation wanders, I hear myself saying to my oldest, "don't you feel empowered now that you know how to do that?"  pointing out a challenge he has overcome.   His response was very 16, "I never doubted that I could.  What do you mean empowered?"     My sister in law's take on the comment, "Wow, maybe because he is a guy he never has needed reminding,".  Me, I like to think we have instilled an inner confidence.  But, goodness all gracious, her comment did give me pause.  Ladies, we are amazing, creative folks who were perfectly created in His image!  We were made to climb mountains and discover the cure for cancer and be whoever we aim to be!  Caring and loving and being vulnerable does not equal weakness.  Run that race, even if it’s a bit slower making sure your friend is there by your side.  That reward will be twice as sweet. Be strong, protect the ones you love, and spread those wings!   You got this.  Fly!   By Grace Lanier

I was introduced to this great brand of clothing called Peach. Its the perfect combination of comfort and style. Its a beautiful quality product that will last the test of time. Amy Reed is the best consultant and I want to introduce you to her new company in a letter she wrote. Introducing Peach! https://www.discoverpeach.com/s/amyr2   I’m excited to be the first to bring Peach to Colorado!  What is Peach, you ask? Peach is a clothing startup of elevated athleisurewear designed by women and for women. I first became aware of the brand when my long-time best friend introduced me to the clothing line.  I’d known Connie since 8thgrade, when I showed up to my English class to find a note written in the upper right corner of my desk, “who sits here 7thperiod?”  I decided to answer, and it led to a friendship that has spanned decades. Naturally, when she told me about this new athleisurewear clothing startup she was representing, I bought a few things to support her in her new venture. Soon, no one had to convince me, because I discovered that I love the clothes, and I found myself purchasing more and more Peach items! What made me fall in love with Peach is the comfortable, versatile, on-trend nature of the line, and the fun new things they introduce seasonally. I naturally gravitate to soft knit fabrics, which is pretty much exclusively what Peach offers.  Then I started noticing the attention to detail, as well.  The labels are printed on the inside, so there’s never a label to poke you in the neck. Several of my tops have a slimming flat vertical seam down the back that adds a nice detail, but that I don’t feel at all when I lean back in my chair. I have tops that can be worn long and straight, or ruched on the sides.  I have jackets that can be work straight or they can be gathered in at the waist to whatever degree I desire.  The thoughtful details built into the clothes serve to add versatility of use, and also adjustability to achieve a good look for women of various shapes and sizes. The Peach leggings I own look good enough to carry me from my workout right through my afternoon errands, possibly with the addition of a little jacket or sweatshirt. Then, if I’m lucky enough to have somewhere to go in the evening, I only need to change my shoes and jewelry (like one of my favorite Liv & B pieces!), and maybe add a flyaway cardigan to top it off! I have several cute Peach joggers that are my go-to’s for looking good and being comfortable throughout my daily activities, whether that be watching my daughter play volleyball, chasing our new puppy, or for comfort when I travel. Add to that, comfortable athletic bras with cute straps in back, and a variety of soft, comfortable undergarments. After a couple years of finding myself constantly grabbing for my Peach items in the closet, I started seriously considering joining Peach as one of their stylists.  After all, who better to represent a product than someone who already loves and uses it nearly every day! If what I’ve described sounds like something you might be interested in, then please check out the  link below and let me know if I can help you with anything!  Peach always does free and easy returns and exchanges, so you really have nothing to lose! Maybe you’ll even find that you love Peach as much as I do!  I’m also available to book a gathering at your house, if you’d like to host a girls’ night, etc. I’ll bring samples of many current items to show, and you will have a chance to earn yourself some free and discounted products! Contact me if you’d like to learn more about it!  303-807-6001 Thanks! Amy fallinlovewithpeach@outlook.com https://www.discoverpeach.com/s/amyr2