I felt it auspicious to have this sighting yesterday, just days after Thanksgiving, upon leaving the house. Devoid of timidity, this turkey actually allowed me to sidle close up; the grandeur of its feathers spread full, in almost a righteous manner. And what a colorful face. It’s neck sagged and wobbled, though not necessarily indicative of its age. We humans, however, sadly suffer from what’s referred to as “creping,” or the gradual appearance of vertical lines across our delicate necks-the inevitable effect of gravity. I am all about prevention and maintenance. I encourage trying Duchess Marden’s Neck & Décolleté Serum. It also does wonders in fading dark spots (using healthy, natural ingredients, of course)!
This is the time of year to renew and reset yourself; a time for deep introspection prompting positive action, perhaps by default for yourself, but ultimately for the benefit of others. It is not just about what is imbibed or inscribed, but rather our intention and the results. On the lighter side, it may be viewed akin to exfoliation - the shedding of layers no longer needed, and that no longer serve… and while you’re at it, treat yourself to the purest and cleanest 
She was an absolute character, obsessed with opera and the ballet; the type who would force you to sit beside her in front of the TV, watching the dancers leap across the stage. She had a dramatic, commanding presence, and could entertain like no one’s business. She would write me long-winded letters that began, “Dear Duchess,” recounting stories referencing her friends, as though I knew them. My siblings and I would sit and read these letters together and giggle. She certainly upheld the theme to which I also ascribe:
Harvest time is upon us. We must surround ourselves with a sensation of bounty by making something from what we have, and pausing with the greatest sense of gratitude for just that. Rather than accumulating things gratuitously, I have always had a preference for treating myself to a few select and special things that have meaning. This has been my approach in developing the Duchess Marden line - always with thoughtful consideration of core “cherry picked” ingredients of the finest quality that produce benefits, and a pleasurable experience. Try anything of ours, and linger on this thought - made slowly with love, and the pleasure of your experience in mind.
Now that summer has come to an end, you are faced with seeing everyone in their back-to-school mode… Are you ready to show yourself (with or without a tan and some good summer escapade story)? View this video from me for some great suggestions on having a fresh/clear look: 
I cried like a baby when I was told we’d have to take down this oak on our property. It had gotten Sudden Oak Death Syndrome, then in it’s weakened state, was attacked by bark beetles. You get attached to your trees, so a part of our landscape, our history; a vital, never fully realized creature of nature to behold. And our Mothers, the same. They are out there. They are with us. And then they are not. So viscerally a part of our fabric, our nature, and a being and force to behold. Their intentions, not always understood, their messages, oftentimes obscure. Then, we become parents, and recognize what a tremendous responsibility we hold (larger than life). For it is life we are forming, principles we are guiding and values we are presenting. Ponder your own such challenges and sincerity, and you will invariably appreciate your Mother.
You stop in time, and want time to stand still. The day goes dark, and you find yourself locking the door. Wasn’t I just going through this motion (or was that yesterday)? Linger on a moment, and you realize that time is slipping by without your express permission. Cherish time. Place fresh flowers and leaves around your space. Sip your favorite drink in the evening. caress your child’s cheeks. Smile at them even when you are angry. Remain calm and nurture your sentient self.
Face it, you are cute. As my Mother used to say, “After looking at the same face in the mirror for so many years, you sort of get used to it, and it begins to grow on you.” It’s true. You have your certain something - your own cuteness factor. Studies may claim that it is possible to deduce universal cuteness down to a science: the size of the eyes, the distance between the eyes, etc. But why (pray tell) do some women think that an artificially puffed up upper lip looks good? Believe it or not, Kelly Lebrock was actually born with those lips! I was reminded the other day when I did a store training that many women call our