Tonight will end a long stressful year for me. 2017 was a harsh lesson that I wasn't prepared for. The lessons I've learned have made me a stronger person. I hope that 2018 brings peace and relaxation to my life.

Things I Hope for in 2018:

Peace
Much of the year was spent catching up and fixing previous mistakes. I hope for peace and relaxation in my life. I want to enjoy my friends and family.

Love
I have always had the love, support of my family and friends. I am very thankful for that. I hope in 2018 to continue to receive the unconditional love they have given me.

Success
I hope to become financially and emotionally success. I do want to be successful at my job, I also want to be successful in my relationships.

When the clock strikes 12, I'll close my eyes and hope for new opportunities...

Art Fair

So it has been two weeks since I've posted. Sorry!

I refuse to make excuses. In my absence, I am preparing for the Fair.
The Fair allowed us to sell homemade goods to our local community.
I am selling small canvases with quirky sayings.

This is my first time selling my own work.  I tried to think about
what people would buy. What is something they would love to
gift to their family? I had a couple of stock painting ideas like
quotes, bright vibrate colors etc.


What I enjoyed most about the Fair was preparing my
merchandise. I never painted before and I really enjoyed
it. I would watch YouTube for a few minutes and then I
jump up and start painting. I was like "Someone would love this!"

The outcome of the Fair wasn't great. I sold 3 of the 6 paintings I made.
I'll post them on my Etsy, and get a little painting business
started. What do you guys think? If you have experience with
Etsy, give me some tips!

Describe Days of the Week as if They Were Teachers

Monday: I imagine Monday as
a Catholic School Teacher. She wears
thick-rimmed glasses and has a pinched face.
She comes behind me and smacks me on
my hand as a daze off.

Tuesday: Is the nice-ish Teacher. You like her
but she's still has a no nonsense attitude.
At the end of the year, she lets you watch
a G-rated movie.

Wednesday: Is the PE teacher some
people like him, some don't.

Thursday: Is the art teacher. My favorite
class. She's calm cool and collected because
there's only one day until Friday.

Friday: Is the Teacher that doesn't show up
or alert the school. The class is just there
without supervision. So the principal puts on a movie
until dismissal.

If there’s one recurring lesson in my life— it’s definitely...

Geralt

If there's one recurring lesson in my life, it's to take the time to do the work. My personality, my attitude, heck, my sign is to jump from project to project. I'm a Sagittarius by the way. I find it difficult to see things through. The projects I start are great. They just need a little time and care.  Time is one thing I feel like I don't have. My mission is to live life to the fullest and sometimes things get done half-heartedly.

It's difficult for me to hash out the details and nothing makes me feel more trapped then planning. I want to go, go, go when it's really time to plan. From 2014-2017 Saturn has been in Sagittarius and it has been hell. I don't know how many of my plans just didn't work out or totally self-destructed. I read my horoscope and it says, 'life may feel like you're driving with the handbrake on.' It SURE does.

There's nothing I hate more than planning. Over these last few years I have become so paranoid I'm afraid to do anything because I don't know if it'll work. But the lesson for me in my life is to take time and do the work. See it through to the end. Practice until you can't get it wrong. This year and next year I'll see it through to the end.

Rest Poem

Response | What It Means To Be A Black Female Introvert

I recently read an article by Valarie Stephens, self-proclaimed introvert. In her article, she described herself as an introvert that happened to be black, and that is how I would describe myself. I am an introvert that is black. Often times I feel like being a black female overshadows my actual personality. It's shallow that people cannot look past my skin, and get to know ME.

 Black women have the worst stereotypes out of any race. We are over-sexualized in music videos or dismissed as loud mouth baby mama. There is no in between. It saddens me that people find me strange or unique for acting the way I do. I know for a fact there are many black and minority women out there like me. We like coffee, Kawaii things, pop music and being alone.

I hope this doesn't get dusted under the rug. If it does I want to say, I here weird and never going to change.

My Unexpected Dream

I woke up from a good 8-hours of sleep and I recalled the strangest detail from my dream. I am a person that believes dreams can be interpreted and hold meaning, so this dream was strange. I hate it when you can't remember the entire dream. It would help put it into context but...what can you do.

In the dream, I was looking down and saw a green snake. It wasn't a huge snake. It was a small lime green color and was moving in a circle. I watched the snake move round and round until a bigger green snake came behind it and devoured it! I was shocked but I wasn't scared. I woke up not knowing what this meant. 

While on my way to work I Googled "Dream meaning snake, eating another snake." I found a couple threads here and there but nothing really made sense. A Reddit thread I found was kind of interesting;

"Actually, in my experience, the ouroboros is a good sign. It's a symbol of personal transformation. What it means is the old you is used to create a new you."--RadOwl

Ouroboros is from Egyptian Mythology. He represents an infinite cycle of recreation and destruction.
I didn't completely trust his explanation.  

My culture has taught me that snakes are bad. Snakes should be avoided at all costs no matter how harmless they look. As a child, I grew up next to the woods and my parents were cautious when we played outside.

So I searched again, with my FAVORITE source Dreammoods. Dreammoods said;

To dream that a snake is eating another snake represents your drive and determination to succeed at whatever cost.

To me, this is the same thing RadOwl said. There is something changing in my life. I am growing and changing as well. 

What's On My Playlist

Summer is over and now we are into the first week of Fall. Fall is my favorite season, the autumn leaves the hot cocoa, mittens and cinnamon candles.  This year has brought new and talented artist. Below I have listed artist I've added to my playlist.


BILLIE EILISH

Billie Ellish, 15-year-old Los Angles native released a killer album this year.The albums name is Don't Smile at Me. The title perfectly sums up her playful mischievous attitude.My favorite songs on the album are Bellyache and watch.


RUTH B.

Next is Ruth B. A former Viner, she posted short videos of her singing. I fell in love with Ruth's song of superficial love. The song's name is actually Superficial Love.

Baby if you want me, then you better need me
. 'Cause I'm so done, not being your number one



HALSEY

The final talented lady is Halsey. Halsey has a bad girl new york swag. I loved her release of Bad At Love. She goes through her relationships and why they didn't work out. It's not her fault she's bad at love and she's not going to pretend you're the one.

Personality Type: CREATOR

It wasn't long ago that I took an in depth personality test. It's nothing like the Myers Briggs
test but a career guidance test. The test was 50  questions long and painful! It took me longer because I kept choosing 'indifferent' response and it couldn't score it. I went back and weighted my opinions a bit. After that, I got my results.

Creator, interested in image and self-expression and artistic experience. Creators enjoy drama, fine arts, music and creative writing. They like to work with visual elements such as forms, colors and patterns.

I've  always been creative. My peers looked to me artistic ideas. I don't mind being a muse. As  I got older I saw how hard it was for some people to make a living. An artist is often depicted as a loner  in a studio painting in the dark and eating soup out of a can.

I did not want that life. I didn't want to struggle. So I decided to stop drawing, and pursue a career in management.  I look back on it and I'm saddened because it was then I decided money was more important then my happiness. I have picked up drawing again and still love it. My advice to anyone reading this at the thresh hold. Life is a struggle don't let money decide for you.

If you guys want to take the "TEST"

11:11

Every morning at 11:11 I close my eyes and make a wish...

I wish I was taller, skinnier like a VS model
I wish I could eat whatever I want and look like a VS model
I wish for a huge closet full of clothes I like (Madewell,Chelsea and Violet etc.)
I wish lots of great shoes
I'd wish for the best in electronics
I'd wish for luxurious vacations
I'd wish for a limitless gift cards to Target
I wish for celebrity boyfriends (Ryan Gosling, The Rock, and Bob Morley)
I'd wish for art/craft supplies
I wish for a million dollars

Then I open my eyes and it's 11:12

Why I'll Never Delete My Tumblr

When I look at my Tumblr I see beauty. I see pure artistic expression. Instagram is nice but lacks the artist niche. I'll give Instagram a break because it is a fairly new platform but the pictures of your breast and butt aren't "curves" girl. It's just you being thirsty.

I find myself scrolling aimlessly through my Tumblr looking at all the beautiful photos I have collected. It's like a never-ending gallery wall. I have pictures of Indian weddings, flowers, afros and fearless girl quotes.

I've had a Tumblr since I was in high school. I tried to keep up with it but like anything, life got in the way. I still update it from time to time but I cannot bring myself to delete it. Even if I'm not actively participating in the community I enjoy what it's putting out.

Well I think that ends my little rant about Tumblr.


What's on your Tumblr wall leave a comment below.

Easy Halloween Costume Ideas

There's a scene in Mean Girls when Grethen asks 'What are you supposed to be?' Karen responds 'I'm a mouse, duh." Which is not know until you see the mouse ears on her head. The tight bodycon dress and strappy stilettos gave no indication of a mouse. Cady, that weird girl from Africa, wore dark makeup, a long black wig, and a torn wedding dress.

Unfortunately, like many people, I do not have the time to DIY a Halloween costume. Instead, I'll buy one from the store. The choice in female costumes ranges from sexy to just plain weird. I know it's early to start planning for Halloween but I'm too excited!!!

Pink Lady-- Grease
This is an easy DIY costume. "Tell me about it stud!"
A pair of leather leggings, a black shirt, and a pink jacket and you're
a pink lady. There you go!

Catwoman -- DC Universe
The fiercest lady in the DC Universe. She sexy, nimble, and takes what she wants. She mostly steals diamonds.  A simple black jumpsuit, boots and cat ears and there you have it, Catwoman. I've personally done Catwoman too much.

Cher-- Clueless
If you can make up your best Valley girl accent you can go as Cher from Clueless. A quick trip to Goodwill I'm sure you can find a plaid coordinating set. A plaid top, skirt, knee high white socks with a fluffy pen. The Halloween party will be 'totally killer.'

Irony
If you're clever you can buy a shirt that says "This is my costume." That's cool too.



What do you guys think? What are you going as?

Everything You Need to Know About Cuffing Season

What is Cuffing?

Cuffing has nothing to do with sleeves, lol. Cuffing is when people end their summer promiscuity to couple up. September is usually when this happens because school has started and the weather gets colder. The fall brings oversized sweaters and hot cocoa. It makes you want to share a blanket with someone special.

What to Expect with the Upcoming Cuffing Current

Expect a lot of long gazes and accidental touches. Expect awkward jokes and hair touching.
Guys may experience the feeling of  'Hey she's cute.' Girls may experience 'Yeah, he's kind of funny.'
In that case, coupling may occur.

My Opinion

I love the idea of cuffing. No one wants to spend the holidays alone. I never liked the summer months. I think it's because of the heat and awful outfits. Cuffing with that guy you'd never date during the summer would be fun. Snuggling next to the fire, a Netflix marathon and wooly socks makes me feel all warm inside.

What do you guys think about Cuffing? Leave a comment below.

Am I a Pixie Maniac Dream Girl?

We all have seen the pixie maniac dream girl. She's the bubbly, shallow, girl that will never grow up. In films, she's seen as a companion for the protagonist. Who is equally shallow and immature.
So am I a 'Pixie Maniac Dream Girl?" Besides her shallow nature, she teaches the protagonist to let go and live.

I can admit to my shortcomings and I'm not the most mature. The similarities between the Pixie Maniac Dream girl and me is our free-spirit, quirky nature. The Pixie Maniac girl is not all bad. One of my favorite PMDG has to be Clementine from the Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. She loved Joel but never agreed to be his salvation. She never wanted to fix him and she did not want to be fixed. Clementine had her own life and lived fearlessly.

Another one of my favorite PMDG is Ramona from Scott Pilgrim Vs the World. A hot American girl with a difficult past, dates Scott an equally heart broken individual. Romana and Scott break up after he battles her ex's.Scott learns self-respect and the consequences of being a serial dater.

The PMDG is a powerful and lovable character. A quirky girl on a mission of self. And hey maybe dates a couple of cute guys along the way.

Why Scorpios Are My Only Friends

I have had many friends in my life. But none have stuck around like the Scorpio. My best friend in high school was 'Marq,' was a Scorpio and we did everything together, chorus, classes, everything. He was everything I wasn't outspoken, headstrong and a great dancer. I feel like I become friends with people that have something I lack. At that time it was confidence.

He is a Scorpio and I am a Sagittarius, technically we are zodiac neighbors but different. He always tried to get me to come out of my shell. But that was something I needed to do myself. Every time I go back home it's like we never stopped being friends. He always says "Girl you're still crazy." 

I tend to date Scorpios and befriend them. People may be put off by their intensity but being the fire sign, I don't shy away from a challenge. When you get to know a Scorpio and they trust you, you have an everlasting friend. As lovers, I haven't found anyone more interesting than the Scorpio. I know he's doing well and I'm proud of all my friends for their accomplishments.

What do you guys think? Do you believe in zodiac signs? Leave a comment below.

Ebb & Flow Quote

 "What's so fascinating and frustrating and great about life is that you're constantly starting over, all the time, and I love that." ---Billy Crystal

 In this life, we are always in the state of starting over. We start over in our careers, we start over in a new city, or relationships. It is important we become comfortable with change. Everything in our life changes, to think something will last forever is naive. You can take comfort in the fact that things change especially if you are in a bad situation.

I, unfortunately, learned this lesson later in life. I used to hold on to things so tightly it would blow up in my face. Now I TRY to go with the ebb and flow of life. I have gotten better but still, find myself looking back. I challenge myself to move forward, and I challenge you guys to do the same.

HAPPY LDW! What life lessons did you learn? Comment below.

 

Summer of Classic Films

This summer I wanted to watch classic films. The reason is, I have always been attracted to black and white films. I remember in school watching Twilight Zone when the teacher's wanted a break. It intrigued me when I was young. The black and white shows offered a lesson. A twist you'd didn't see coming or a slow build up to a passionate kiss.

Metropolis

This was the last film I watched before I started classes.
To explain it briefly Metropolis is about a creator, his son
and a girl. The boy, Fredor is the son of  Joh Fredersen,
the master of Metropolis. He grows up rich and naive. One day
when prancing about with loose girls, Maria comes with the worker's
children and points to Fredor and says 'he is your brother.' She
exclaims we are all brothers. Freder was taken by the beauty of Maria and
leaves his pampered life to search for her. Workers live underground and work
10-hour days. The wealthy live in Metropolis.

It was the first silent film I've watched and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
The movie had a slide that fills the viewer in on what was said. I found myself
filling in the words anyway. The expressions were so grand, almost cartoonish.
There's a scene when Maria was running away from the scientist, it was so dramatic,
I thought she was going to pass out from all the shaking she did. I laughed.
It's interesting to see how people think of the future and our relation with technology.
The idea is still the same, people fear technology.

Heaven Can Wait

If I choose to watch a classic film, I prefer to watch this genre.  This movie is about Henry, a bachelor.... you can say. He's a charming rich, young man with a history of mischievous behavior and nothing would make his parents happier than for him to marry. While strolling through downtown he spots a beautiful girl, Martha. Martha and Henry have a lifetime adventure together.

When watching the film I sympathized with Albert. Albert was originally engaged to Martha, a bit nerdy, he lost Martha to Henry. I have a problem with people taking things. Henry swoops Martha into his arms and they elope. Henry was hot, even in black and white, I see why Martha was taken by him.My favorite line in the movie is when Martha says she has Henry now that he has a tummy. She doesn't need to worry about losing him to other women. It's a cute, lighthearted film. I recommend it.

Nights of Cabiria

A prostitute searches for love in the streets of Rome. She hopes for a life away from the nightlife. Every man she falls for runs and takes her money. The movie opens up with Cabiria nearly drowning from her boyfriend pushing her into the river. Cabiria didn't know how to swim and the pedestrians didn't know how to do CPR. You see the man holding her upside down and shaking her. One day she hangs with her friends and they go to a service. The Virgin Mary is in front of Cabiria as she pleads for a different life. After the service, she freaks out and leaves her friends. She leaves sure that her prayer will be heard.

I am attracted to Cabiria and her story because you don't want to give up on love. You can't give up on wanting a better life. The only person that can make a change in your life is you. Cabiria was hurt so many times and by people that pretended to love her. The worst kind of feeling is to be hurt by someone you love. I teared up when she handed her boyfriend the money and told him to kill her. Essentially she had given up. 

I really enjoyed this project. I'll do more of these in the future.

What do you guys think? Leave a comment below.

End of Summer Check List

School has started, and now summer has ended. I made a list of things I wanted to do this summer and I've completed some and forgot others.

Travel

The BEST thing you can do with you time and money.
I'm proud of myself for taking the first step of solo travel. Although we
live in the most progressive time, solo women travels are discouraged.
It is the fear that women are too delicate or they could be abducted if they
travel alone. I'm not saying throw caution to the wind but don't let fear stop
you.

Vintage Movie Marathon

This was a weird goal of mine to watch old black and white movies
this summer. I'll write a post about what movies I watched and what I
thought of them.

Learn Something New

Growing up I never really had a break from
school. I was always learning something with
tutors or workbooks. So now that I'm older I love
learning. Over the summer I took a couple of online
SEO classes and writing classes. I learned a lot for free!

The things I didn't get to do were traveling to Spain. I really want to
go to Spain or South America. I have been practicing my conversational
Spanish and  the only way to master a language is to use it? Derecha?
But who knows what the future will hold?

Comment below what you guys did this summer?

If I Won A Million Dollars | Powerball

Money is an interesting thing. It's essentially a tool, it's neither good or evil. The latest Powerball drawing for 700 Million Dollars makes me think what would I do with that money?

If I Won 700 Million Dollars....

I Would Save and Invest a Large Portion
It's important to invest in your future. An opportunity
like this is once in a blue moon. I could save for major
future investments like a house, and my future family.

I Would Travel
I would travel and see the world. I go to Italy, Greece, Spain,France, and Amsterdam.

Exploring this great, wideworld, meeting people and experiencing different places is important to me. I would spend months away and move from place to place.


I Would Go on a Shopping Spree
I would go crazy in Nordstrom and Fashion Nova.
I would buy EVERYTHING my heart desired.
Designer tops, a cartful of shoes, I'll have arms of accessoriesand bags.  I would find the shyest sales women and have her
ring up my huge purchase.

I Would Give to Charity
I'm a firm believer in giving back.
Charity is like paying rent to the World.
Giving back to someone less well off than you
is the least we can do while we are here on Earth.
I would donate to the S.T.E.M education for young
women and Environmental organizations.

What would you guys do with a million dollars? 

The Hunger Games Guide to the Eclipse

Today a few lucky cities will witness the Eclipse. Redmond, Knoxville, and Charleston.
I have composed a Hunger Games guide to surviving the Eclipse.

Tip #1
Limit Driving and Commuting During the Eclipse

With visitors coming from all over to witness the
eclipse driving and normal everyday activities will
be difficult. Visibility will be somewhat limited,imagine
a cloudy day when it's overcast.
Everyone should be cautious of the sudden change and
hold off on any activities until it is clear


Tip #2
No Selfies Please

The great Neil deGrasse has said
"Don't film the Eclipse, experience it."
It has been verified by NASA that using
your camera or phone may damage the lens
unless you have a UV protectant to cover it.
Nor can you view the eclipse through your
phone.


Tip #3
Protect Your Eyes

The most important organ by far.  If you
decide to view the event make sure you
protect and cover your eyes. The solar
glasses are probably sold out everywhere,
but if you can snag a pair from a friend or
go to a viewing party that provides
them you'll be covered.

How will you view the Eclipse. Comment down below.

My Work Aug 2017

 

It has been a long time since I've posted some artwork. Here you go!

I have to say I enjoy sharing my work with you guys, it encourages me to

create more.

This piece is about the passion of a new relationship. The top left is a soup cup that says ' be strong and love much.' It's placed over her eyes to represent a thought. She's been hurt before and now she feels comfortable to love again. When I think of comfort I think of soup.

To the right is the solar eclipse that will take place on August 21. I'm super excited for that. I love major astronomical events.

In the mid-left you'll see a girl biting her lip as her lover caresses her cheek. Whew that's hot.

In the middle is a carnation. If you remember in middle school you could buy a carnation for your friends, or crush. Carnations to me have always symbolized an exciting, youthful love.

To the mid-right are mountains and GPS indicators. I love to travel. That will always be a major love in my life.

Toward the bottom is a cute little bird, just singing.

 

Have you posted any artwork lately? What do you think about the upcoming eclipse? Leave a comment below.



 

 

Do We Live In A Throw Away Society?

It's an interesting question, that I don't know the answer to. I only have my experiences to put forward a possible answer. I think we DO live in a throw away society. If something doesn't work or loses it appeal, it is normal to replace it with something shiny and new.  We do this with electronics and relationships.

Our society is moving forward so fast that things lose their value quickly. The latest electronics to the latest clothes and relationships. You can see this attitude in the way we fill our environment with landfills, and the way we treat our older population. We dispose, and throw away.

I'm here to tell you that you can give anything more than one life. Resist the urge to 'throw-it away.'

Those clothes in the back of your closet donate them to the Salvation Army.

Those old electronics sell them, have them refurbished and sold again.

Plastic! Forget it! Use glass, glass can be used over and over again.

And most importantly don't forget about Grandma. She maybe feisty but she has knowledge and stories to share.

I find value and magic in old things. When I see an old t-shirt my mind fires up a way to repurpose it. Even when I look at an old building my inner Property Brothers comes out and starts making floor plans and setting a budget. Repurposing can be fun, it your open to it.

If you have time look-up Depression Era tips to frugal living. Frugal living can help you save money and teach you to be more self-sufficient.

Do you guys think we live in a throw-away society? Leave a comment below.

5 BS Facts About Shoes Everyone Thinks is True

There are many misconceptions about shoes. Especially women's shoes. It seems that there are many false facts about women's wear in general. Good thing you stumbled upon this article because I'm here to debunk these myths.

1. Shoe's Have To Be Painful To Be Sexy

If shoes are painful for you to wear either you're wearing them wrong or have the wrong size.
Many Shoe Gurus have mastered the art of walking in heels. Shoe Gurus can make high heels likeyour walking on air.


13 Tips That Will Help Take The Pain Out of Wearing High Heels
18 Hacks, tips, and Tricks, To Make High Heels More Comfortable

2. Wear Shoes That Attract The Attention of Men

We all have different motivations for selecting the clothes and shoes we wear. We select clothes and shoes to express our unique identity. While men tend to be attracted to long legs, that usually is not the intention of buying heels. When you wear a pair of heels you feel above it all, like you're a goddess or queen.

What Are The Benefits of High Heel Shoes
One Crazy Advantage of  Wearing High Heels

3. Flat Shoes Are For Quitters 

While binge watching a 30 Rock, I remember the episode when Jack found out Avery was pregnant with his baby. Avery, like Jack, is a go-getter. Anything less than perfection isn't good enough for her and that's why Jack fell in love with her. During her pregnancy Jack said "And she always wears high heels, because, according to her,flats are for quitters."

I'm not recommending that you wear during your pregnancy. Flats are a great option. Many flats come in a great pattern while being stylish. I personally prefer flats over heels. Flats and sneakers are for those busy days when you need to get stuff DONE.

4. Comfort and Style are Mutually Exclusive

This is a major myth. Like Myth number #1 shoes can be comfortable and fun. Just like anything you purchase, you examine and try it out. I love buying shoes online but make sure that the website has a flexible return policy.

Zappos Return Policy
Nordstrom Return Policy

5. All Shoes Are The Same

It is easy to believe that all online shoes are the same. If your new to online shopping it's easy to believe but if you're a pro like me find unique shoes is a breeze. I can confidently say you can find any shoe, from any brand, from any time period, online. it just takes a little research.

Modern Day Dating | the most boring post about love you'll ever read

This is the most BORING article about love you'll ever read, or maybe not.
 Love is a unique experience for everyone.

What is love? 

Love to me is a connection unbreakable by any circumstance. It let's someone know that I'm here for you always regardless of what happens. I will be with you no matter what because I love you and we're in this together.

Why Love?

Why not...

How to Love? 

In order to love, you need to love yourself. Know your boundaries and know that the other person is not perfect and you aren't either. If you know this, then let the love flow freely. Love your neighbor, love your dog, love the grocer down the street, just let it all out.

Who Do I Love?

I won't tell...


Any advice about love? Leave a comment below

Lately On Instagram ( I'm on Instagram)

I posted a picture today of this adorable artist
Grace Vanderwaal. Grace Vanderwaal
was on America's Got Talent when she revealed to the world her majestic voice.  After America's Got Talent, Grace has sold out nearly every show.
Grace  has the voice of an old Blues singer. She is only 13 and still has a lot of maturing to do as an artist. She possesses the talent needed to make her a Billboard Top Artist but often with fame at a young age, addiction becomes a problem. I hope this doesn't happen to her.
Grace a talented young girl from Kansas thrown into the limelight by a talent show. That would be a movie I'd watch!

My second most recent post was about my FAVORITE pair of sunglasses. I got these sunglasses from LOFT not too long ago. There like a rose-mirrored tint. I was going to the grocery store for sweet potatoes and wanted to take a selfie. They just scream fabulous every time I put them on.






I love Instagram because you can say a million thing with a picture. My account is
fairly new and goes along with my blog and personal life.

Don't forget to follow me  crissy.b723

Vacation to New York City: Food

New York is the ideal place for a foodie. New York offers a fun experiment of food fusion, ethnic foods, and  food trucks! I grew up in the low country. I remember walking down to the fishing port and seeing the bleach white shells and docked boats. In terms of scenery, the low country  is beautiful but I have never been a fan of sea food. Growing up so close to a fishing dock you'd think I'd be a
sea food lover but, I am not.

I loved the accessibility of  fast food. Every corner offered a new culinary experience. There are food tours I would like to try the next time I go. Free Tours by Foot offers a variety of tours of the boroughs. If you want to go to Manhattan and try Molly's Cupcakes, you can reserve and pay a registration fee of $70. The tour price includes many restaurants and you decide what you eat.

While I was in New York I stuck to Taco Bell. An old but favorite restaurant. Next time I go, I'll try and review Free Tours by Foot for you guys. You'll work up and appetite walking up and down the islands so enjoy a nice big meal.

Response | Astrology Meets Cocktails | Sagittarius

I  love scrolling through my Facebook page and seeing fun articles like this.  Nylon magazine
wrote an article about which cocktail you are according to your zodiac sign. I am a Sagittarius, the fun loving fire sign of the zodiac! Nylon suggested a Lemon Verbena Whisky Sour, which sounds
amazing. The drink is beautiful with a light pink hue and can be decorated with a slice of lemon.
This drink a lot like the Sagittarius, beautiful with a punch of whisky. A drink like that takes time  to make. This drink like the Sagittarius needs patience and s lot of love. This isn't your twist off beer kind of drink!

I'll be sure to try this drink the next time I go out. I'll let you guys know if it lives up to the Sagittarius standards.

Check Out the Article Here 

Astrology Meet Cocktails... By Gala Mukomolova

Comment Below with Your Sign and Your Favorite Drink

How Are You? Let's Chat

Hey. How are you?
I hope all is well.Today's post is just going to be super casual. As
casual as I can be at least. Are you guys watching GOT?
Game of Thrones is back on so all is well in the world.

I don't know why I like that show so
much. Oh no I remember, freakin' Jon Snow! That smexy
man. I haven't caught up so it's on my list of final to-dos
before the summer ends.

What are you guys listening to right now? I'm listening to
Halsey, Banks, and Ruth B. I love soulful female artists.
They just transport you to the deepest part of your emotions.
That's just music in general.

What trends are you guys wearing? I am wearing
cropped legging and a t-shirt. It has been unbearably hot
here. I really want to buy a pair of culottes but I'm this weird
height between short and average. It's like a hit or miss with
pants. So I always need to try them on. The culottes I tried
were like ankle length and that's not how they're supposed to
be worn. :( I think I'm going to have to make my own.

Have you guys tried anything new? Have you tried grocery
delivery? I don't try new things unless I get a positive testimonial
from my friends or family.
I'm looking into Thrive, let me know if you've tried it. I would
love to hear about it.

Rihanna's Greatest Comeback

GETTY

I am a huge fan of Rihanna, for many reasons. I feel like Rihanna has the best celebrity come back IN THE HISTORY of celebrity comebacks. I'm not talking about popularity. I mean comeback from the tragic incident between her and her ex Chris Brown. 

I'm not a huge celebrity gossip fan or interested in gossip in general but Rihanna I adore. 

PAPER Magazine

When I heard she was in a violent relationship with Chris Brown it saddened me. She's so beautiful and talented, how could that happen to her? How could that happen to anyone. Domestic violence is a real issue, many women don't walk away from. It's tragic to say that Rihanna was lucky to walk away with just bruises. No one deserves that ever!

Rihanna went dark for a couple of years with Good Girl Gone Bad and Rated R. 

She needed to break down to repair herself. Who are you after something like that? Going dark was her way of coping. It took a couple a years for her to find herself again. She was no longer the

sexy island girl but a unstoppable pop icon that doesn't give a f**k. 

I admire her for that. You can follow her on Instagram and see her as an loving aunt to a fashion icon. I love how she can go from a punk-rocker with green hair to a pink princess on the red carpet. I admire her for her strength in her sexuality. Her ability to love again and her overall love for her fans. 

Two-Year Anniversary of thebarefootqueen

Two years ago this month I was inspired to start this blog. While it has a long way to go, I'm happy to say I'm very proud of it. This month Google renewed my blog name thebarefootqueen.com.
I don't know what it is about sentimental moments but I don't realize how how magical they were until it's over.  Let me start from the beginning...

Why thebarefootqueen Name?

I image thebarefootqueen as a loving, free spirited leader. She has a bohemian style and
flowers in her hair. She sleeps by the sun and lives by the moon. She fearless yet vulnerable, because vulnerability is strength. She is the embodiment of  who I want to be.

What Will Happen Over the Next  Two Years?

The next two years you guys are going to see a lot more of me. I plan on starting a YouTube channel and doing vlog, GRWM, OOTD, travel videos and much more. I find myself happiest when I am creating. I remember taking a drawing 101 class in college and everyday I was excited to go. I feel the same way when posting.

Where Do We Fit In?

You guys are important to me. While we are a small  group, we are a strong group. I can truly say I've gotten nothing but positivity and inspiration from you guys. I hope to grow our group and get a conversation going. I enjoy hearing feedback, comments, praise, so let's get started!

Why I Hate Fashion Trends

I hate trends. Every year something new, has everyone running to the nearest Forever 21. I feel like summer months bring out the most trends.  The boho festival girls, rave girls, the Kim K look-a-likes. I cannot lie, I have been a victim of trends. I remember in high school Good Charlotte, and Green Day was super popular. My parents were traditional and won't let me wear the ripped jeans and band tees my friends had. They did let me wear that little wrist sweatband with the band's logo on it. It's  all about the small wins.

I'm thankful to my parents for setting those boundaries.  When I look back in my yearbook I think
'gosh...how did we think that was cool?' Thanks to my parents I appreciate quality clothes and I am particular on what I choose to buy. I try to buy clothes that are well-made, ethically made, sustainability made, self-made or second hand.  We have a responsibility as fashionistas to buy products that support our environment. 
Fast fashion contributes to landfills and CO2 in our atmosphere. Synthetic fibers like nylon, polyester, and acrylic (looking at you Forever 21) take thousands of years to break down. Let me finish by saying Forever 21 is not the enemy. The fast-paced, consumer-driven economy we live in is. The next time you shop think about how often will you wear it, what is it made of, and who you can give it to after you're done.

Thanks guys.

 What was your favorite trend growing up?

Pros and Cons of Living With a Roommate

Pros

Cheaper Rent

Living with roommates has made it possible to live in the ever increasing rental market. A one bedroom in San Francisco is 4,000 dollars. The issue comes in with technology jobs and creative jobs moving to the cities. It seems like a hard compromise but roommates may be the answer. Splitting utilities and rent with 3 to 4 other people relieves the financial stress.

Sharing and Caring

I've had roommates that are prepared for the apocalypse. They had top of the line pots and pans, spices, a panini maker, a mattress frame and stockpile of food. These roommates are the best because they are so prepared. When you move around a lot, like me, you lose stuff. So these roommates help fill in the gap until you can reset yourself.

Friendship

The best thing about having roommates is you're likely to have a friend. Living in the same space brings people together. It's nice to come home to someone you can rant to about that bit-- at work or that cute guy at your regular coffee place.

Cons

Cleaning

Everyone has a different interpretation of cleanliness. Some people are less clean than others.
I have had many roommates fight over dirty dishes and clothes left in the washer. My advice to anyone with roommates is as soon as you use it, clean it. There will be no issue if you clean up imminently after yourself.

Lack of Privacy

The living room, kitchen, and bathrooms are shared in my apartment so there's not much privacy.
I try to a long take relaxing shower but that's not always possible. Nothing pulls you out of your Zen more than your roommate shaking the door knob. It's an unspoken rule that if you're going to use any shared area, to use it quickly.

Over All Bad Roommates

I have had more than my fair share of bad roommates. I had roommates that lacked common courtesy to disgusting human beings. One of my roommates shed all the time. I go into the bathroom and saw clumps of her hair on the shower walls and in the drain. It was gross, I always take a shower before her so I didn't have to see that.


What's the worst roommate experience you've had? What's the best? Let's talk below.

Home Base for Travelers

A home base is a place you stay for a few months between traveling. A few travelers on popular travel sites don't see the need for a home base.  They believe it's a waste to pay rent if you're not living there all the time.

There are travelers that disagree. A home base, especially in your country of origin, is important. A home is a place to spend time with your
friends and family, and celebrate holidays.

I was thinking about this recently since I'll be relocating soon. The idea of traveling from country to country is exciting yet terrifying. I like traveling but a home base is important to me. A familiar place that I can recharge when I get tried.

The pros of having a home base are; familiarity, a place for your belongings, you can rent it out on
Airbnb until you come back, and conveniences of a home.

The pros of not having a home base are: the world is your home, constant adventure, in-depth learning of culture and languages.

My family is important to me and the fatigue I get when traveling is unbearable. I cannot get a good night sleep unless I am in my own bed!   While it sounds appealing to constantly travel I think I need a home base for now. I like the flexibility of traveling while still being able to come home.  

I've Been Thinking About This For a While Now....

Hey guys,
I've been thinking about this for a while now. I've been thinking about where
I am and where I want to be. The things that caused me to change and mature.

I had a dream a couple nights ago of my wedding. I was dressed in white and we had
a giraffe in the church. The giraffe was trying to escape and I tried to catch it.
The giraffe broke free and ran out of the room. Then I woke up. Dreams are weird.

But when I interpret the dream this is what I found.
A giraffe represents welfare, happiness, the truth and possible dangers.
A wedding represents the merging of masculine and feminine.
A giraffe running away is avoidance of the truth.

There are many ways to interpret this dream but I see it as me needing to be more masculine. I needed to become more assertive in what I want.I've needed to become clearer on what I needed and expected.I've needed to 'marry,' these parts of my personality that I've avoided for so long.

No one is going to give you anything and for a long time I've avoided ruffling feathers for the sake of peace. The truth is asking for what you want and being assertive is not a bad thing. Asking for
what you want and expect helps avoids
problems down the road.

 I have always interpreted my dreams. Especially in times of stress I've noticed my dreams become more vivid to the point of me talking in my sleep.

My advice for you guys is to be open to your subconscious. It often reveals your true feelings and fears.

What's the weirest dream you guys had? 

2017 New Year's Resolution: Revisit

Hey everyone! This is a quick check-in on OUR New Year's resolutions.
We are passing the 6-month mark and now it's game time. If you haven't
kept up with your goals it's not too late!

1. Reevaluate Your Failures

I never look at failures as failures. To be successful you must look
at failures as lessons. In those lessons you can reevaluate you goals.

For example:
January apply for Study Abroad Scholarships--Completed but did not receive the scholarship instead I went to NYC

February: Update Portfolio--Somewhat, I post quick sketches on my Instagram
March: Write everyday-- Somewhat, I have kept up with my blog MW. Thank you for reading every week!

2. Set New Goals

It is important to forgive yourself. It's only failure when you quit completely. Setting new goals can make your New Year's Resolutions feel fresh. Posting your resolution somewhere where
you can see it everyday can also help. By looking at your goal everyday you subconciously 
set the path to your goal.

July: Get Certification
August: Post First YouTube Video
September: Interview for Out-of-State Jobs

3. Deadlines, Deadlines, Deadlines.

 There's no anchor to keeping your goal unless you have a
deadline. A deadline give you a finishline to visualize. I set a couple of goals each month and
the end of the month is the deadline. Some goals can take a week, or 3 months but set a date.

4. Remember Your Mission

Your mission is what you consider to be your life's purpose. Your goals should always be in
alignment with your mission. If you haven't already, sit down and write a sentence, no more than three about what your purpose is here. Below I have listed mine;

My mission is  to live and work creatively in art, fashion, film making, teaching, and philanthropy.

5.  Visualize the End Result

Lastly visualize you have already achieved your goal. It will help you when you
don't feel like working out that day, or make excuses for not completing your
goal. Imagine the end so you can increase your will power to do it.

5 Epic Failures Involving Art

1. Ecce Homo Cecilia Giménez

In an attempt to restore Cecilia Giménez made the painting
of Jesus look more like a monkey than the Lord and Savior.
She has reported since the epic failure she has been ridiculed by her collages.  

2. What is He Missing Paul Klee

Klee a Swiss-German artist makes a quick sketch on ingres paper and asks, 'What is he missing?' I can answer that, a neck and a torso. It is an interesting interpretation on expressionism and cubism, it draws the viewer in to participate in the artwork.  

3.  Women III Willem de Kooning

Women III is one painting in a series of six. The painting is the
fourth most expensive painting ever sold, at 137.5 million dollars. The painting was stored away due to strict government regulations. In 2006 it was sold to a billionaire. I guess there's someone for everyone. 

4.Untitled (1970) by Cy Twombly 

This painting resembles scratches on a
chalkboard, but this painting has been 
in a  prestigious European collection. The 
painting resembles children learning cursive.

5. Museum of Bad Art

The Museum of Bad Art or MOBA's motto is 'art that is too bad to be ignored.'
The gallery is based Massachusettes.  In its collection are bad works of art and epic art failures.