Tuesday, July 31, 2018

Blue Galaxy Print Top

I spent most of the day paiting my living room.  This has been a long time coming!  I am so looking forward to the end result!

 I need to do a second coat, and then paint the floors.  I won't be taking everything out, so I will need to move everything to one side, let it dry for a few days, then paint the other.  FYI, if you buy a fixer-upper, wait and paint the rooms before you move in all your things!  It will save a ton of work and frustration!

Blue Galaxy Print Top

Blue Galaxy Print Top

Monday, July 30, 2018

6 Books to Read for Summer Vacation 2018

Today's post is a special summer vacation book review!  See my review for all six books, below. Happy reading!

6 Books to Read for Summer Vacation 2018


https://www.amazon.com/CHASING-MERRY-GO-ROUND-Holding-World-Moves-ebook/dp/B07916RDN6/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1520960053&sr=1-1-fkmr0&keywords=chasing+the+merry+go+around

Chasing the Merry-Go-Round:  Holding on to Hope and Home When the World Moves Too Fast, non-fiction by by Kelly Bargabos .

This autobiographical, non-fiction story begins when a family adopts a boy named Bobby, and is told by his older sister.

The boy grows up, but always finds it hard to keep a job, or even a place to stay.

To quote the GEICO commercials, "Life comes at you fast."  Too fast for Bobby!  The successful life he wanted was like a merry-go-round moving too fast for him to hop on it, and his wretched existence is like a merry-go-round moving too fast for him to safely get off of it.

Eventually, Bobby is diagnosed with a mental disability, which explains why his life has been so difficult, but this diagnosis is only the beginning of a war his big sister wages to get him the care he needs.

This tale of a woman's unconditional love for her literally made me cry.  If you're looking for a tear-jerker, this book is the one!   I would have to say this one of my favorite of the six books I am reviewing today.  We could all use a little more empathy, and learn to withold our judgement of people.  You may not know what eveyone else is dealing with in this life.

https://www.amazon.com/Sanity-Lost-Found-Brainwashing-Recovery/dp/0999295500/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1528823018&sr=1-1&keywords=sanity+lost+and+found

Sanity Lost and Found:  A true Story of Brainwashing and Recovery, non-fiction by Tarra Judson Stariell

This is the true story of a young woman named Sandy, who, inspite of being intelligent and attractive, finds herself in an abusive, cult-like relationship that lasts for years and years, when she becomes involved with a man who psychologically enslaves her without the need of physical restraint.

This book gives amazing insight into mental illness, domestic abuse, and cults. 

I found the book draining to read because of all the intense situations which seemed to keep repeating themselves as the protagonist finds her way out of "the darkness."  This is not a "fun," "light" summer read, but a worthwhile read, nonetheless.

https://www.amazon.com/Leaving-You-Alex-Nicollet-Delon/dp/0999520806/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1528142843&sr=8-1&keywords=leaving+you+for+me

I'm Leaving you, For Me, non-fiction by Alex Nicollet Delon

This autobiographical book is a deeply personal, no-holds-barred look into the life of a woman in her sixties, who leaves her husband after decades of marriage.  I think this book is a great read for anyone that has ever been in a relationship.  It gives insight into what an unhappy, unhealthy marriage is like.  Topics covered in this book include dating after divorce, sexual assault, and living on one's own for the first time, later in life, after living with the same spouse since being a teenager, building a successful family business, and having grandchildren.

A victim of sexual assault myself, I find that, of all of the six books I'm reviewing here, this is the one I can most relate to, and the one I most highly recommend.  

 https://www.amazon.com/All-Cannot-Give-Michael-Carlon/dp/0997983957/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1520959927&sr=8-1&keywords=all+the+fucks+i+cannot+give

All the F*cks I Cannot Give, fiction by Michael Carlon

This book is the perfect length for reading during a weekend get-a-way (320 pages).
 
I can somewhat identify the the main character, a man named Kelly Carson, who is a doormat:  His wife doesn't love him, and neither his boss nor his father-in-law respect him. 

Three weeks before Christmas, while waiting to catch a flight home, he receives a phone call to inform him that he will no longer have a job when he gets there.  Coincidentally, Terri Flynn, an actress en route to New York to start a new life after walking off the set of her last film, overhears this phone conversation, and sympathizes with him.  Then their flight to New York is cancelled, so they decide to fly to Maui, Hawaii instead.

During the events which follow, Kelly learns what is important to him, and to not worry about the small things that just don't matter. He deals with the loss of his job and marriage, and has the adventure of a lifetime, where he learns to stand up for himself.

I am not really a fan of the crude, vulgar humour and language in the book, so, if that also bothers you, you may want to pass on this one.

https://www.amazon.com/Winning-Streak-Michael-Carlon/dp/0997983914/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1520959994&sr=1-1&keywords=winning+streak+carlon

Winning Streak, fiction by Michael Carlon

If All The F*cks I Cannot Give was crude, Winning Streak is the exact opposite, even though it is by also by Michael Carlon.

It tells the story, primarily, of a young, professional golfer named Patrick "Trick" Evans. On what should be one of the greatest days of his life, the day he finishes winning all four of the world's major golf tournaments in one year, Trick suffers one of his life's greatest tragedies; he learns that his father has unexpectedly passed away.  Trick pulls away from the spotlight, and returns to his home town of Chatham, Massachusetts, where he meets an unlikely partner who eventually leads him back to the life he loved.

This story is also about two other people:  A woman named Casper Quinlan, and a man named Robert McMullen.

Casper is still recovering emotionally from an automobile accident when she is tasked to obtain an interview with Patrick.

Robert McMullen hasn't been to Chatham for decades, but returns, on a quest he is sent on by his dying wife.

The tragic lives of all three of these people (Patrick, Casper, and Robert) instersect, and the result is uplifting for them and readers of this novel alike!

https://www.amazon.com/Uncorking-Murder-Farrah-Graham-Novel/dp/069276075X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1520960089&sr=1-1&keywords=uncorking+a+murder

Uncorking a Murder, fiction by Michael Carlon

I read Uncorking a Murder in one day, so I would say this mystery really keeps your interest.  (It usually takes me at least two days to read a novel, and, at 348 pages, this is the longest.)

It is a great, light summer read, and it's perfect for those who like murder mysteries! 

There's sex, murder, and money - all the ingrediants to make a thriller a thriller! 

This book is about a retired detective who wants to right a wrong, and see a convicted felon whom he believes is innocent and wrongfully imprisoned set free. He asks a successful podcaster named Farrah Graham to investigate the case. Curious as to why a retired detective would want to overturn the case of a convicted felon, she travels to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where she discovers a narcissistic Chief Executive Officer and a corrupt U.S. Senator.

Will the wrongfully imprisioned be freed?  I won't spoil it for you, but I will say that there is one, very large twist in the book that really sends you for a loop!
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Sunday, July 29, 2018

Pink Print Maxi Dress

I got up early this morning and edited another vlog for my Youtube channel, so it's alrady been a productive day for me.

I will probably take the rest of the day easy, though.  What are your Sunday plans?

This maxi dress is another one that I bought from Fallas while living in California.  The earrings are from Walmart, and I love how well they match my dress!

The sandals are from Roses.  I love shopping at Roses for my sandals.  They have great option there for basics like flip-flops, and the prices are great!
 
Pink Print Maxi Dress

Pink Print Maxi Dress

Saturday, July 28, 2018

Sailboat Print Skirt

We have been spending the past few days making a few home improvements.  It's nice to get some things done.

I alsoo fimed a few videos for Youtube today, so please be sure to check out my channel

I don't remember where I found this top, but I have had it for a long time.
The skirt is one I bought while still living in California a few years ago.

My wedge sandals are "new", from Goodwill just last month, I think.

Sailboat Print Skirt

Sailboat Print Skirt

Wednesday, July 25, 2018

Multicolor Print Blouse

I like the interesting "flame" print of this blouse.  I decided to pair it with a plain, long black skirt.  This skirt is another great wardrobe staple, though lately I am not wearing skirts and dresses as long as I used to.  I love that the fabric of this skirt also does not tend to wrinkle.  I like not having to spend so much time steaming things.  Sometimes it seems like I have to steam every item before I wear it.

The top is another thing that doesn't really wrinkle.  

The gold belt is something I found at Goodwill a few months ago.  It fits me very well, and I think I will be wearing it a lot.

Multicolor Print Blouse

Multicolor Print Blouse

Tuesday, July 24, 2018

Yellow Print Mini Dress

This dress is yet another thrifted item.  It's funny, because it looks more like a top when it's off, but once it's on it's actually long enough to be a dress.

I am also wearing one of my many wigs.  This is one that I got from Amazon last year or so.  I have a huge collection of wigs, though I rarely wear them because I just don't find them to be that comfortable.  I also have a larger head size, so I think it's harder to even find those that fit very well, in the first place.  

Have you ever worn a wig?

Yellow Print Mini Dress

Monday, July 23, 2018

Mauve Palazzo Pants

I love how comfortable these pants are!

I was looking for something like these online, and then I found these in person at Ross for even less.  I think they go with so many things, and I also think they are going to be perfect for fall.  The white top goes very well this them, and it was brand new from Shein, but I found it at Goodwill.  I love it when I find things that are new, with tags at the thrift store!

I think this top is also something that goes with so many things.   My earrings almost match the pants in color, but they were new, from Goodwill.  I changed them into clips, because as you have already probably found out, I don't have pierced ears. 

Mauve Palazzo Pants

Mauve Palazzo Pants

Sunday, July 22, 2018

Tribal Print Outfit

I bought this top and skirt at different times, but they almost look like they would made for each other.  Don't you love when that happens?

The outer top and skirt were thrifted a few years ago, and the yellow top I am wearing underneath was a purchase from either Fallas, or a store in the L.A. fashion district, I can't remember for sure.  I like the neutral tones and colors in this outfit, and even though it's summer, I think it would also look great in the earlier days of fall.
 
Tribal Print Outfit

Tribal Print Outfit

Tribal Print Outfit

Saturday, July 21, 2018

Cream Blouse and Skirt

I love this outfit, and I had fun putting it together.  Every item I am wearing was thrifted.   I have worn the skirt several times, since it goes with so many things.  The fabric is a little thicker, so I think it's best for spring, and cooler days.
I love how elegant this floral design tee was, and I thought it would also go with a lot of different things in my wardrobe, and look dressy while being very comfortable, since it's basically a tee shirt.

The bag is another item I am getting a lot of use out of, since the color goes with so many things.  I am really loving the lights, neutrals, and whites this year.  I want to make an effort to wear lighter colors in my wardrobe from now on, especially in the warm seasons.
 
Cream Blouse and Skirt

Cream Blouse and Skirt


Friday, July 20, 2018

Green Floral Print Blouse

I bought this lace skirt from Goodwill a few months ago, and I have already worn it more times than I can remember.  It has become a wardrobe staple for me, since it goes with so many things in my wardrobe.  

The blouse is one I bought in California from Fallas.  It goes very well with the skirt, and also the necklace that I bought from Roses.  Roses has such fun costume jewelry, by the way! 

Green Floral Print Blouse

Green Floral Print Blouse


Thursday, July 19, 2018

Gold Rosette Skirt

I really love how this OOTD turned out.  I love the tones, and colors of the pieces.  I especially love the gold skirt with the rosettes.  I found it at Goodwill, along with the blouse, and jacket.

The rose gold watch set came from Walmart, and the shoes and bag are also from Goodwill.

The skirt is just too pretty!  I know this is an item that will be in my wardrobe for a long time because I consider it special.  I love things that are different, and not seen everyday.

Gold Rosette Skirt

Gold Rosette Skirt

Gold Rosette Skirt


Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Red Striped Short Sleeve Blouse

This striped blouse I am wearing is something I bought in the L.A. fashion district.  I only recently wore it for the first time.  I liked the unique way the buttons down the front, and the ruffles. 
The red skirt is something I bought just a few months ago, and I have already worn is a lot of times.  It feels like cotton, but it does not wrinkle very badly, which I love.  This was something I found from Goodwill for just a few dollars, and I think it is probably from the 1970's.

The rose gold bag was new, from Ross.  I love the rose embroidery on the side!

Red Striped Short Sleeve Blouse

Red Striped Short Sleeve Blouse

Tuesday, July 17, 2018

White Blouse with Belt

I tried to link a similar top below to the one I am wearing, here.  I love how this top resists wrinkles, and goes with so many things.  I also like the tie belt.  These pants are some I found from Goodwill.  I was happy to find a pair of basic, conservative beige pants for times when I want to dress more business-like.   The earrings are a pair I picked up from Lowemart for $1.  I like them because they are so thin, they don't fall off my ears when I wear them.  I have don't have pierced ears and wear only clips, so this is sometimes an issue.

My heels are some I bought at Ross while still living in California.  It's always great to have a pair of basic, nude heels!
 
White Blouse with Belt

White Blouse with Belt


Monday, July 16, 2018

Blue Silk Dress

Friday, I will be getting my dental implant.  I am starting to get a little nervous!  I know one thing...I am going to be so happy to start the new year with the whole implant process behind me, and with the new tooth in place!

My mother is the one that found this BCBG dress for me.  I love the light shade of blue.  I wore a huge statement necklace with it that I think matches very well.   The necklace is one of many I bought from Walmart on sale last year.  I have not worn them as much this year, but I still love them.  They just really add a whole element of drama to any to pretty much any outfit.

Blue Silk Dress

Blue Silk Dress


Saturday, July 14, 2018

Light Grey Dress

We spent the day grocery shopping, and also picking up a rack I will be using for all of my handbags.  Now I just need ti figure out where in the house I will be putting it, because it's rather large!

I have a lot of my bags stored in plastic tubs at this time, so I would be really happy to see them all out in the open.  It would make picking out the right bag for the right outfit a lot easier!

How do you store your handbags?

Light Grey Dress

Light Grey Dress


Thursday, July 12, 2018

Shein Fall Coat Review

Today, I am sharing this coat from Shein that is perfect for the fall season.

I love the style and shape of this navy blue coat.  I think the way it flairs around the hips is so pretty, and reminds me of something from the 1800's.  I am wearing a size large, and the fit is very good.  There's enough space to allow me to wear a few layers underneath, which is great, because this coat is made of a thinner fabric.  It's best for milder days in fall and winter.  The coat also has pockets.  Pockets are something I like to have on most of my jackets and coats, if possible.
I am looking forward to wearing this in the fall!  I think it will look great with so many things...from dresses, to skirts, to leggings.

This coat also comes in three other colors!

Coat Shein

Shein Fall Coat Review

Shein Fall Coat Review

Shein Fall Coat Review

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Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Shein Green Floral Print Robe

I just adored the print and color of this kimono/robe when I saw it.  I bought it with the intention of wearing it as a summer season robe, though it is meant to be worn as a jacket/kimono type piece of clothing.  I bought in a size large,and the fit is pretty much perfect.  I was happy to find that the sleeves were not too long, which is often the case for me when I buy jackets and robes.  I do wish it had been a little wider, so it would not pull apart as much in the front.  Please check my measurments in my About Me section.  If you are much larger than me, you may find this item to be too small.  

I love how this jacket has pockets!  The fabric is lighter weight, making this perfect for spring and summer.

Jacket Shein

Shein Green Floral Print Robe

Shein Green Floral Print Robe

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Tuesday, July 10, 2018

Paiyiku Bikini Review


How is was your week so far?  Mine started off a little unpleasant, since I grabbed the wrong end of a razor, and not I have two cuts on the outside of my thumb, so it's making it a little hard to type this!

On a happy note, though, I love the color of this new bikini from Paiyiku!  It is that blush pink that is all the rage right now.  If pink is not your thing, it also comes in army green, and it's only $17.99!  The pink is my favorite, though.  This is such a pretty shade, and since it's a solid, I can see wearing with with lots of different accessories and cover-ups at the beach!

In spite of the price tag, this bikini feels very well made.  The only thing is to be sure you size up, and pay attention to the measurements!
 
I am wearing the set in size extra large.  The bottom fits me very comfortably, but I think a size large would have been the perfect fit for me.  Check out my About Me section to see my measurements.

Paiyiku Bikini Review

Paiyiku Bikini Review

Paiyiku Bikini Review

Monday, July 9, 2018

Royal Blue Ruched Vintage Dress

I wore this vintage dress on our trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina this year.

I love how soft and silky feeling the fabric is!  Would you believe I also have this in pink?!  I found them both at different times at Goodwill, years apart.  I love ruching, and the elegant flow and design of this dress.

I paired it with this collar necklace I got on sale from Walmart for about $3.  The jacket is also from Goodwill, as are the heels.  The earrings are another sale item from Walmart.

The backdrop for these photos is the hotel at South of the Border.  That was a fun place to stay.  My only disappointment was that the big hat was closed!  The hat is a big tower that you can go up in, and see for miles around.

I remember going up in it when I was a child.  I think just my dad and I went because my mom and sister were scared of the height!

Royal Blue Ruched Vintage Dress

Royal Blue Ruched Vintage Dress

Royal Blue Ruched Vintage Dress


Sunday, July 8, 2018

How to Wash Virgin Malaysian Hair Weave?

If you are a hair freak like we are, you would admit that at least once, you have looked at Virgin Malaysian hair weaves and thought “Wow! These are so shiny they could replace the sun!”
Well, that can’t exactly happen but yes Malaysian hair weaves are incredibly glistening! Not to mention that they are usually bouncy and retain their curl patterns even in adverse conditions.
Sadly, a lot of ladies still do not know that the rather open secret to keeping their virgin hair weaves as shiny as new is simply by washing them. That’s it! If you want to use your weaves for as long as possible, just wash it! Think about it!
When your hair extensions cost a fortune, it is only right that you devote quality time taking care of it. So why do people choose not to do it? Because they fear they would do it wrong and ruin their expensive weaves.Contrary to popular misconception, washing virgin hair weave is as simple as reciting the letters of the alphabet.

In this blog post, we will walk you through the DIY process, and by the end of the following paragraphs, you will know just what to do with your Malaysian hair.Ready? Let’s get started!How to

1.Part your hair into two sections at the middle from the front to the back and let the sections rest on your chest. Detangle your Malaysian hair gently with a paddle brush or wide toothed comb.

2.Starting close to the top of the weft where the tracks are, wet your hair in a downward motion with warm water. You can do this in the shower, sink or bathtub with a bowl of water depending on what ever location is comfortable for you. Here, you need to be careful as you would not want to soak the tracks under your weave.

3.Once you are satisfied with the wetness of your weave, apply a small amount of moisturizing shampoo and wash gently working your way down. This is to remove initial dirt and excess oil. Trying to wash your hair at the stage, you will discover that your virgin hair weave would be difficult to lather. This does not have to get you in panic mode. This is totally normal. Rinse and repeat the process until the water runs clear.

4.Apply your conditioner: We would recommend pure conditioners (Conditioners with natural ingredients) Leave your conditioner in to saturate for at least 15 minutes and rinse your hair. If you do not feel comfortable about your rinsing your conditioner off, it is totally fine if you want to wash it in for a bit. Whatever you do, be certain to rinse thoroughly after each step of washing to prevent product build up.

5.Finally, between air drying your hair and sitting under a dryer, the choice is yours. It makes no difference. Before drying, apply your leave in conditioner or any natural hair oil of your preference for better moisturizing and an ultimate shine. It is very important to let the tracks of your hair get dried before you step out or before you retire to bed. Reason being, it could give you that not-so-cool awful smell of a septic.

Conclusion:
Take note, the use of ‘downward’ motion when it had to do with wetting and applying and washing was incessant. It is imperative that you do all these in a downward motion because if you get your tracks too damp, your mode of installation especially if it is glued in, would start giving way and this could pose a problem.
To ensure that your Malaysian hair never loses its characteristic shine, it is recommended that you wash them every ten days. Washing them daily or once in two months is the best way to say good bye to them!
Did you like this article? Then you would like the other articles on our website as well. And since we are already here, you wouldn’t mind sharing our website would you? Thank you!


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Floral Print Halter Top

The day I wore this, I wore my "new" lizard sandals, and while I was out shopping, I found a tiny, lizard pin at a thrift store!  I could not resist getting it to match my shoes, even though it's so small, you can't even see it in these photos!

I also found this beautiful, colorful necklace for just $1!

I thought it went very well with the colorful, ruffle top I am wearing.  I found this top a few years ago at Fallas while I was still living in California.  The skirt is also from Fallas.  

Floral Print Halter Top

Floral Print Halter Top