2024 Resolution: Shopping my own Bag and SLG Collection

[Sparkletastic]

December Activities and Challenges - pick and choose as you please.

I. 2024 Year In Review Reflection
(Thanks @Vintage Leather)

Utilize these thought starters to evaluate your collection, your usage patterns and your lessons learned in 2024.
• What is your most useful purse?
• What is your best purchase of the year?
• We’ve all had a lot of lifestyle changes this year - how has it affected your style?
• What is the one thing we’ve learned this year that you want to take into the next?

II. Setting 2025 Goals
Take this month to consider what you want to do with your handbag collection, wardrobe or even your beautiful life in 2025. Share these thoughts in January when we start the 2026 Shopping Your Closet thread.

III. End of year optional challenges

• Holiday colors: December has many holidays celebrated across the world - red & green, brown & gold, blue & white and more! Pick the holiday that you want to honor and wear / show off your bags in those traditional colors.

• End with a bang: As we come to the last part of the year, wear the last bag you’ve purchased at least 3 times this month.

@Vlad please pin this to the top of our thread.

 

[Sparkletastic]

BTW - these are the two wallets that I’ve purchased over the last couple of months. I absolutely did not need either one. I have one wallet (along with 2 card cases) that has worked well for me since 2017, which is a black Dior Envolee calf leather wallet with hot pink interior. It’s so well made and literally still looks new. Plus I don’t like to change wallets.

Yet, here I am having purchased a second Dior Envolee in rose beige with a taupe interior and Dior black lambskin cannage wallet. When I next see DD, I’ll give her one because these will just sit in my accessories drawer. Dumb bunny buys. Oh well. They’re here. She and I may as well enjoy them. LOL!

 

[cecchetti]

It’s amazing how quickly we can lose fitness. I have always been very active: weight training, dance classes, cardiovascular activity… it was all part of my daily life.

Then in 2020 I had the brain tumor. Ugh! Since then, I’ve battled health issues both related and unrelated. In fact, I have two more surgeries coming up - one on Monday and one in December. (Being brutally honest, this is why I’ve been on such a purse buying binge It’s been self soothing.) In ANY case I’ve really struggled to keep my fitness level up and have gained weight. So, I’ve had to make health & vitality my number one priority and it will stay that the rest of my life. Age plus health conditions plus lack of vigorous exercise equals disease, decay & signs of aging. I just refuse to go down the path of not feeling good. What I can fight is getting kicked in its head.

So know that I 100% support you and am sending you all kinds of good vibes and cheerleading. You can do this!

We’re here to help if you need ideas.

I feel for you typing this with your left hand.

I’ll be thinking of you on Monday-we ALL will -be strong, you ARE strong, keep going, everyone is here for you and sending love and strength to get through the surgery and feel better to face the one in December.

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

 

[Sparkletastic]

I’ll be thinking of you on Monday-we ALL will -be strong, you ARE strong, keep going, everyone is here for you and sending love and strength to get through the surgery and feel better to face the one in December.

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Thank you! Your note means a lot.

 

[lill_canele]

We lost our dog two weeks ago. While I haven't done too much shopping, I have been numbing myself with social media. I don't have the energy to even envision my future right now. I relate to you both - I hope things are better now. I miss him so much it hurts.

I'm so sorry about the loss of your dog. 🙏 May he/she rest in peace across the rainbow bridge watching over you.

Thanks! Turns out I broke it. It will be a learning experience to become a lefty for six weeks.

Oh no! That sucks. Wishing you a speedy recovery. And if you need PT, go get your PT!

Questions of the day:

In your collection, which brand is most represented and which brand is least represented? Is this what you expected or is this a surprise to you? Do you know why you tend to buy your most represented brand? And/or now that you have this info do you need to make a change in how you purchase going forward?

If it's bags only, then Moynat is the most represented and Chanel is the least represented. Not too much of a surprise. I used to be a YSL bag girl but I've sold a few of them in the past and I think I got tired of them a bit. The Chanel CF was kind of an "I made it" purchase. One of those things I felt like I had to have or like a dream bag. But honestly, if I sold it now, I don't think I'd cry about it. I've realized the Chanel aesthetic isn't mine haha. While Moynat is currently most represented, I don't think I'll be buying any more in the near future. I love their more reserved designs (and gold or palladium plated hdw) but I also feel satisfied.
Now if we're talking about all luxury things, then first would be YSL. My love of their RTW and shoes is quite well know I believe haha. Dead last is still Chanel. Just have the bag and classic CC earrings that I never wear but just can't let go lol.

It’s amazing how quickly we can lose fitness. I have always been very active: weight training, dance classes, cardiovascular activity… it was all part of my daily life.

Then in 2020 I had the brain tumor. Ugh! Since then, I’ve battled health issues both related and unrelated. In fact, I have two more surgeries coming up - one on Monday and one in December. (Being brutally honest, this is why I’ve been on such a purse buying binge It’s been self soothing.) In ANY case I’ve really struggled to keep my fitness level up and have gained weight. So, I’ve had to make health & vitality my number one priority and it will stay that the rest of my life. Age plus health conditions plus lack of vigorous exercise equals disease, decay & signs of aging. I just refuse to go down the path of not feeling good. What I can fight is getting kicked in its head.

Tumors and cancers definitely flips one's world up-side-down and life gets topsy-turvey. You've shown tremendous strength and resilience! Best wishes to your upcoming procedures! May you have a speedy recovery.


As usual, work is busy. I'm just tired most of the time lol.

 

[cecchetti]

Thank you! Your note means a lot.

Long May you Sparkle!❤️

 

[lill_canele]

October 2024 stats

Where did the time go?! Nothing much to report for October though.

• 0 bags in; 0 bags out
• 5 / 14 bags used
• For most used bag: a tie between my Celine Boston bag and Gucci Jackie bag. No surprise here haha.
• SLGs: 0 in / 0 out
• Accessories: 0 in / 0 out
• Shoes: 0 in / 1 out
• Jewelry: 0 in / 0 out
• Clothes: 2 in/ 2 out

I finally threw away 2 Dior eyeshadow palettes that I barely used. I was just holding onto them because I spent the money on them. But I just almost never reached for them and I’m pretty sure they’re expired by now anyway lol.

Speaking about makeup and skincare. The Sephora Rouge sale started today and I ordered quite a haul! I usually restock my favorites but this time there were some things I was eager to try. So I’m looking forward to that beauty package. Also decided to dip my toes in Chanel nail polish. Got 2 bottles. Hope they work well, never had Chanel nail polish before.

 

[cecchetti]

October 2024 stats

Where did the time go?! Nothing much to report for October though.

• 0 bags in; 0 bags out
• 5 / 14 bags used
• For most used bag: a tie between my Celine Boston bag and Gucci Jackie bag. No surprise here haha.
• SLGs: 0 in / 0 out
• Accessories: 0 in / 0 out
• Shoes: 0 in / 1 out
• Jewelry: 0 in / 0 out
• Clothes: 2 in/ 2 out

I finally threw away 2 Dior eyeshadow palettes that I barely used. I was just holding onto them because I spent the money on them. But I just almost never reached for them and I’m pretty sure they’re expired by now anyway lol.

Speaking about makeup and skincare. The Sephora Rouge sale started today and I ordered quite a haul! I usually restock my favorites but this time there were some things I was eager to try. So I’m looking forward to that beauty package. Also decided to dip my toes in Chanel nail polish. Got 2 bottles. Hope they work well, never had Chanel nail polish before.

I use Chanel nail polish, much better than OPI, which lasts about 2 days!

 

[Sparkletastic]

I use Chanel nail polish, much better than OPI, which lasts about 2 days!

Polish on my toes never chips regardless of brand. But, I use dip powder manis on my fingernails because nothing else lasts more than a day-ish. So strange the difference.

********
One of the bags I bought just arrived and I’m in LOVE!! Jimmy Choo Bon Bon Bucket in brown calfskin. I have two of the mini Bon Bons (pink satin and black) but this is my first full sized one. I absolutely love JC’s leathers and don’t understand why more people don’t love his bags. (I pray the Michael Kors team doesn’t change this.) But I guess it’s good for me because I can buy new JC’s on deep sale or buy like new JC’s resale for next to nothing. 🤫

Anyway, believe it or not, this is the very first brown bag I’ve ever owned!!! I’m adjusting the color palette of my wardrobe to include more warm colors so my bags have had to follow. Hence me purchasing the raffia and tan Loewe Gate, the Gucci python 1970 with greens and golds, the beige Fendi and now this brown JC this year. This is a perfect errand running bag. Yay!

Buuut, it also needs a spot in my “no room at the inn” tower. I think I’m going to have to move my sunnies to my foldable sweater section and fold the sweaters more efficiently.

 

[Sparkletastic]

I sent photos of 4 bags to Fashionphile and they offered me about 40% of what I can get selling them myself. I would have accepted 65% just to not have the hassle. But 40%??????

 

[dcooney4]

It’s amazing how quickly we can lose fitness. I have always been very active: weight training, dance classes, cardiovascular activity… it was all part of my daily life.

Then in 2020 I had the brain tumor. Ugh! Since then, I’ve battled health issues both related and unrelated. In fact, I have two more surgeries coming up - one on Monday and one in December. (Being brutally honest, this is why I’ve been on such a purse buying binge It’s been self soothing.) In ANY case I’ve really struggled to keep my fitness level up and have gained weight. So, I’ve had to make health & vitality my number one priority and it will stay that the rest of my life. Age plus health conditions plus lack of vigorous exercise equals disease, decay & signs of aging. I just refuse to go down the path of not feeling good. What I can fight is getting kicked in its head.

So know that I 100% support you and am sending you all kinds of good vibes and cheerleading. You can do this!

We’re here to help if you need ideas.

I feel for you typing this with your left hand.

Good luck with the surgeries. Keep fighting! You are inspiring!

 

[cecchetti]

Some good news after all the doom and gloom recently..

Every year for the last 5 years I’ve entered my feline babies into the official Siamese and Oriental cat calendar.

Tammy featured twice, Baryshnikov has featured twice.

Miss Bianca has got in every year, and will be in the 2025 calendar, for the 5th year running-I’m SO proud of her!

I entered an old picture of her with my Hermes Tsako which I gifted a year and a half ago, which will feature in August.

She deserves a new catnip banana -although she will still probably play with the old one!My Mum loves the calendars as well, so I’m especially happy.

 

[More bags]

@Sparkletastic sending you positive thoughts on your upcoming surgeries.

@cecchetti I’m sorry to hear about your loss. Sending my deep condolences.

@dcooney4 wishing you a speedy recovery.

@SakuraSakura I’m sorry to hear about your dog passing.

@Cookiefiend I hope your knee is on the mend.

@papertiger sending you and your DH positive energy.

 

[More bags]

October Update: Intentions, Challenges, and Stats

• Bag Rotation: carried 17
• Most frequently carried: Ateliers Auguste Mini Monceau Gold Edition Burgundy Box Leather, my Birthday bag acquired this month
• Books Read: 2 - Crossroads: My Story of Tragedy and Resilience as a Humboldt Bronco by Kaleb Dahlgren, and My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry by Fredrik Backman
• Exited items: 18 - household items

October 2024 Stats
Bags - 1 in, 0 out
SLGs - 0 in, 0 out

YTD 2024 Stats
Bags - 3 in, 0 out
SLGs - 0 in, 0 out

 

[Bag peace]

Doing a quick skim because I've missed out on too many pages to catch up properly.

@papertiger Hope there's more good news for DH and his appetite continues to improve.

@cecchetti I adore your cats! Thanks for the pic and congrats on the calendar.

@dcooney4 So sorry about your broken wrist! I hope you're not in too much pain and that it recovers nicely!

@Sparkletastic lovely new bon bon! I don't usually gravitate to browns but this one is great!
Oh I've just seen you'll be having surgery. Wishing you a speedy recovery!

@Vintage Leather I hope the changes you mention are all positive ones! The Knight will be off to college now, right? I hope he's loving every second of it! You must be so proud!

Sorry to anyone I've missed out. I hope everyone is keeping well. The year is whizzing by and I'm just trying to fumble my way through. I think I have another 3 bags going out! I've put them aside to wear this month and make my final call. I've done some serious culling this year and I'm worried I might regret it if I don't slow down.
I've still got the stinky bag in my possession and not much has happened in terms of progress. It hangs outside my window, getting lots of sun and air, and is stuffed with paper, but remains smelly. Giving it more time because it's so gorgeous.

Spoiler: Personal updates

My mum's recovery is coming along nicely. There have been unexpected complications since her discharge, but we're putting out each fire as it starts. Thankfully, she's doing well overall and nothing unmanageable has occurred, but I would be lying if I said everything's normal now. We're both dealing with the trauma of what has passed and adjusting to this new way of life.
I'm incredibly thankful that we're together and we're able to navigate this as a team because it's so very hard. I also feel lucky that I'm getting to act as her carer and show her just how much she means to me.

As for myself, I'm on a trial medication that seems to really be working. I haven't felt this alive in a long time! I'm hoping I can stay on it without any complications and that I continue to feel better.
Tbh, with every round of treatment I always think I'm improving, only to find that nothing has changed much and a lot of it was a placebo effect. However, this time feels significantly different and even my doctor is impressed with how I'm responding. I'm so very fortunate and grateful to be here. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this is an actual step towards good health and not another placebo period.

Edit: @More bags That Ateliers Auguste bag is lovely! Is it new? It's very much your style! Very refined and elegant!

Also, mildly infuriating that I cannot seem to 'like' any posts.

 

[Bag peace]

I've been seeing these things that show various things you should be able to do if you want to live long, like get up off the floor without using your hands. I'm terrible at all these things so it got me worried.

My goals are to develop more flexibility, build muscle to combat osteoporosis, and work on better balance (being able to stand on one leg for over a minute.)

I wonder if those specific goals (bolded above) are something you should be working towards at all.
I recall you were quite worried after your fall that you might break your hip again, and that keeping your balance was important to you to feel steady and safe.
I wouldn't be stressed if these specific movements don't come easily or aren't comfortable for you, given your previous injury. I guess I'm just reminding you not to push yourself too hard and don't feel forced to push that hip past what is comfortable for you.

I'd imagine that swimming regularly has been great for your cardiovascular fitness and mental health! No doubt you'll accomplish all your other fitness goals now that you've set your mind to it.