Holly Golightly is just a character in a movie, but Audrey Hepburn was a real woman. If she inspires you, channel her. Be inspired by her style. But whatever you do, never give yourself away to anyone cheaply. Love is sweet when you learn to play the game with style and class - and a touch of humour.

 

Too many of us have reams of reasons as to why we cannot find time to take care of ourselves. Stop it, because my darlings you are the only ones who can. You can choose to eat food will make you feel and look fabulous. You can find time to walk a bit, to do some yoga or Pilates, and to create a vision of yourself. But you need to do it; no one can do it for you! Darlings, life should be sweet, take the time to make it that way.

 

Darlings, never feel you have to entertain, if party-giving isn’t your style. I know lovely people who just don’t have it in them. Don’t get me wrong; they reciprocate hospitality, often grandly. Some of them bring fabulous hostess gifts. I still remember fondly all the bachelors in Moscow. They never neglected me and brought gifts of caviar, wine, and vodka! Some of those boys were delightfully lavish! And then there are wonderful friends who run errands, help out, and make themselves welcome at every fete in so many ways. Any hostess who plays tit-for-tat or only wants marquee names at her table will never be a true ‘great dame’. A real grande dame knows it is the mix that makes the magic.

 

Darlings I don’t know about you, but I have had enough of craziness when I am trying to get things done. I am sick of non-existent customer service, and I know where to place to the blame. The culpable are not the tired, overworked employees who are often not allowed to solve your problem, but the companies that want to take my money for bad or indifferent service. I am not interested in automated robo-calls from anyone. We need to resist the entire system that has gradually replaced good service.

 

I have always been inspired by Helen Gurley Brown. Even though I disagree with many things she says, I adore her. She is full of wit and wisdom. Her accomplishments are formidable. I admire her work ethic, and her books are full of good advice on how to get ahead. Her last two books deal with her hatred of getting older and how she deals with it. Again, she is full of practical advice, tips, and tricks. I don’t agree with all of her advice, but I love her spirit, honesty and practicality.

When it comes to cities, I have more than one true love, but my love runs deep. I am a city person at heart. I live for good restaurants, interesting architecture, and fascinating streets to roam. I find that there are certain cities - and New Orleans is one of them - that reach out and embrace visitors. They welcome you in, and with every visit they give up a few more of their secrets. It is special and intoxicating. It makes life sweet. If you have a special city you love to visit, share it with us and we will publish it.

I enjoy stories like Princess’s. They are fun to write because they are inspiring. People do accomplish their dreams, and anyone can make something wonderful happen for herself and others. It’s a matter of being open to the opportunity. 

Few women don’t enjoy feeling beautiful, yet so many feel unworthy. How foolish! Beauty has never been more attainable or affordable. So much of looking and feeling fabulous is rooted in good, healthful habits, and making time for yourself. Trust me darlings, when you love yourself enough to take time to care for yourself, you will be a better wife, lover, mother, and friend. Life is short, make it sweet.

 

Fabulous supportive friends are a source of wealth, but true friendship is a two-way street. Darlings, I am not recommending that you fight everyone’s battles or involve yourself in all the dramas that come your way - far from it. The world thrives on drama and much of it is small, tiresome and distracting. But gossip and bullying is soul-destroying, so help shut it down. It’s initiated by the jealous and small-minded. Often disinterest alone can squelch nasty natterers. Life is too short to spend time down in the mud with rumour, petty gossip, and pointless manipulation. Be smart and strategic, but draw the line at pointless negative behaviour. Elevate yourself with those who seek to make life sweet.

 

Life can be challenging. All hardships that befall our friends are not necessarily of their making - stuff does just happen. Encourage, but be wary of offering too much counsel. Wait to be asked. Support is great, but people do what works for them. Listen, support, and celebrate! When asked, offer help and advice, if you have it to give. Life, my darlings, is a dance. Find the rhythm, enjoy the music, but don’t always feel you need to lead!