Archive of ‘Uncategorized’ category

May 16, 2016

Human Angels

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“Reputation is what men and women think of us; character is what God and angels know of us.” -Thomas Paine.

I came into his Emergency Department unresponsive on a gurney. This man had never seen me before and We had never spoken. Yet, even so He took it upon himself, bound and determined to save my life. The life of a person that had never included him until it nearly slipped away. I’m not sure why I was so blessed to have been chosen as a special case for him, but I was and I’m sure that I’m alive to write this today because of that. Not too long ago this very man passed away from this world into the next. It was a loss not only for his family, but for everyone. Because, that day the world lost a unique and special soul. For me, I lost a guardian angel. Who knows why certain people come in and out of our lives? However, in special cases not all of them are merely human. Without even knowing it, your life’s path may very well come across an angels. It’s difficult to convey in words how much of an impact a man I didn’t really know had in my life. The fact that a near perfect stranger rushed to my hospital bedside at all hours of the night to rescue me was surely an act of love. No ordinary(and naturally selfish) person would do that. Upon learning of his passing it was incredible to take into account the impact that this individual had, had on my life and so many others. It would be a crime to waste the incredible gift that He had given me. This triple board certified physician specialist(in ICU and stroke) possessed a brilliant mind, big heart, and a pair of talented hands. The first(and only) time I met him after the stroke, my Mother observed him quietly staring at me for several minutes while I talked to other hospital employees. We both wonder what He must’ve been thinking. Surely, still working out solutions for his “ special case,” even then. Even though our second trip to see him again did not come to pass, his prediction did. “ The next time I see you, you’ll be walking.” Indeed I am not only now walking but the next time I see him I’ll be running! In this journey through life none of us complete it entirely on our own. As if it were an iditarod(see here) there is always someone special that appears and helps you on the way to the finish line. For me, during the long and difficult race, I had a very capable and giant helping hand in Doctor Devasenapathy, or better known as “ Dr. D.” He not only helped me to complete the race, but to stay in the race at all. Therefore, show kindness and love to your fellow man, because you never know when you might be entertaining an angel.

walk in love!

bleu

May 14, 2016

Damsel

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“Victory at all costs, victory in spite of all terror, victory however long and hard the road may be; for without victory, there is no survival.” -Winston Churchill

Perhaps you’re afraid of commitment, a strong independent Woman, or claustrophobic. Therefore, you likely dislike and understand feeling tied down. Everyone wants to feel free to do what they want to do. However, there are things in life that can restrict us, and understandably so, we really hate that. Anything that serves to hold you back, hold you up, or hold you down must go! We forget that these things aren’t always physical, but many are emotional too. If you cannot at least rid yourself of the physical circumstances, the good news is that the emotional ones you can. After all, give anything time and work on it with determination, perseverance, with grit, and it will change. For a time in my case it was the ball and chain of medications. I left the hospital with a tray full of nearly ten(10!) different daily medications, a feeding tube, a daily shot, and confined to a home hospital bed. That was three years ago(2013)and what do I have now? Well, only two(2!) daily medications, no feeding tube, and a supremely comfortable new queen bed. You see? Give it time. Granted, my family and I worked very hard to get here. Even in those times of feeling defeated or utterly disdainful, I can proudly say I always got my butt out of bed to face the day. Why? Because like certain foods, you eat it anyway because it’s good for you.This is telling of the fact that you just need to face life no matter how scary it becomes. Because, like a taunting grade school bully, if you stand up to it, it will back down into a more manageable situation. At one time I needed medication to keep me sane, yet more recently said medication is no longer needed. It’s been kicked to the curb. You can do this too, no little pill can “fix,” your problems as well as you can by changing your way of thinking. Perhaps, you’ll surprise yourself in finding that life gets ever better when you jump at it, rather then shrink away. If you need any reassurance of that, just ask the girl who was at once downtrodden but now finds victory in everyday living. Because, simply having the privilege to live out each day is a victory.

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true grit!

bleu

May 12, 2016

Through the Looking Glass

“ ‘Closed timelike curve’ is the jargon for time travel. It means you go out, come back and meet yourself in the past.”-Kip Thorne.

As I stood at the gates next to my Father I could nearly grasp those lost childhood years. The now abandoned park that I gazed into was once teeming with activity. However, now it stands a silent and still monument to an era of magic. Originally built in 1963 and closed down in 1999, The Prehistoric Forest (or “Dinosaur Land”)encapsulated a few years of my life within it.While I gazed into the park with a myriad number of mixed emotions welling up inside me; I imagined as I shrunk back into a child the park grew up full life again. There exists throughout time and space pieces of us and our hearts wherever we’ve passed. In this case a road side attraction had pieces of my beloved childhood memories within it. Beyond the fence meant to keep me out, lay 8 acres of overgrown trails, random dinosaur(some broken)sculptures, and a precious piece of me. It nearly felt as if there was an invisible wall and I could walk through into my memory. So badly did I desire to relive that period, but alas time marches on with or without us. What it does leave behind for us are the memories. Even though I couldn’t physically be back inside of that memory, I was surrounded by the ghosts of it. I found it funny that present day I was standing in front of this park with the very people who lived in that memory with me, my Mom and Dad. Nothing will make you cherish your life more then standing in front of the ruins of it, from a marvelous period gone by. I could see a little me excitedly grabbing my Dad’s hand and crunching across the gravel to the now empty souvenir shop. “I want the neon triceritops stuffed animal Dad!” Although this place was fading away as each page of time was turned, it remained as vivid as ever within my memories. My Parents are getting older and showing signs of wear, but here, in my memory they are always young. Never had inanimate objects made me consider my mortality more. I thought of all those moments that seem to go by unnoticed while they’re happening, but later become wholly significant. Because even as your living it that time will hold great value in the future. Therefore, take lots of pictures, slow down, and tell the people whom deserve it that you love them every chance you get. To learn and see more about my memory, click here!

Cheers!

bleu

May 9, 2016

Whoa oh, ho, it's Monday!

*blogged after a lazy Saturday and a grilled hamburger*
Yet again it’s Monday you know. Perhaps it’s not exactly magic to you but it certainly can be! Therefore, to help ease you into this week here’s a list of seven things that should be on your radar, one for each day!
1)Broadway Plays!

My oh my, are good plays overly expensive. However, sometimes it’s totally worth it. I was having a major hankering for some artistic fulfillment so I made the splurge this time. It’s even better when you can share it with someone you love. Therefore, I’m also taking a lovely little cousin to Her first play. You can never start em’ too young. Not to mention it’s the best way to spend two hours of your life, rather then on Facebook people.

2) The Henry Norman Hotel Greenpoint, Brooklyn.

This place puts the H in hip, with it’s amazing location and loft style living rooms. They have a curated mini bar full of locally produced goods, and some stellar doormen that make you feel fancy. Not to mention the sleek cars they will freely chauffeur you in around Brooklyn. I can’t say enough lovely things about how great this place is. So, if your holiday destination is in New York City, stay here and live like a local not a tourist!

3) Hard Root Beer

Pictured: Not your Father’s hard root beer, and Coney Island hard root beer. I have not been into anything with the label hard on it since sneaking ” beverages,” into my underage slumber parties. I also, didn’t realize that root beer, which is already good could be greatly improved upon with the addition of alcohol and a nifty label.
4) Pleasant Ebay Transactions – the money and the people who part with it-
It’s not often you have sweet interactions with complete strangers on the internet(unless you’re being a creeper) usually never making face to face contact with someone is impersonal, but sometimes you get surprised. I’ve been a highly rated seller(bragging rights) on Ebay for quite sometime and I still get surprised. To give you an idea, here are some of my favorites. Recently a Husband purchased an anniversary gift for his Wife from me, and We discussed when to ship it so it could be a surprise for Her. Another, was with a kind young Lady that was enthusiastic and interested in my item, and as a follow up happily let me know how much She liked it upon receipt. You just don’t get those kinds of interactions everyday as a seller, and I love when I do!
5) Coffee Wars!?
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For a time I boycotted the billionaire beans peddler Starbucks in favor of local small coffee shops. Many of us already know it’s over rated but even so, I still get surprised when I find good coffee for under $3.00. One such case recently was our Canadian friends Tim Horton’s. Even though I’ve consumed enough Starbucks to be a card carrying gold member(oh how I’ve turned from my ways!) I still try to support smaller businesses as much as possible. Besides, I’m only a gold member for the benefits!
6) Childhood Memories
Many of you have positive memories of your youth(I hope) but nothing tears at your emotions quite like visiting places from your younger self. Recently I had the pleasure(and displeasure) of standing mere feet away from my favorite childhood destination, the prehistoric forest. As I imagined myself getting smaller I could see the now abandoned(tears) park coming back to life. This was the place that held so many childhood memories for me, and all I wanted to do was go back!
7) Mother’s Day everyday
If you’re in the U.S, I presume that since yesterday you have hugged, kissed, and even given your Mommy a present. It’s probably good for your bank account this doesn’t happen everyday. However, your Mother is still your Mom everyday! Therefore, if you can’t afford to buy Her things all the time, at least show some appreciation kids.
Last but not least, the drink! A chocolate margarita, find the recipe here.
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Cheers!
bleu

May 2, 2016

Oh, hey it's margarita Monday!

*blogged after a Dunkin’ Donuts chocolate glazed donut, Oh Yeeaah..*

So, are you getting sick of Mondays,margaritas,and me yet? Has my drink pushing caused you to join Alcoholics Anonymous? If so I deeply apologize, and please don’t blame it on Monday. He didn’t do anything I swear. In fact, He has only been trying to offer you a new start and some extra time(120 hours actually) this whole year so far! Going forward with that new information I hope you’re able to forgive him. Therefore, here it is, 7 things for each day of the week, I hope you like it!

Upscale Resale Howell, Michigan.

Dear God this resale shop is so nice it made me feel slightly under dressed. Instead of buying from the conventional mall or a department store, upscale resale shops are so much better. Not only can you consign your discarded clothing for some extra cash but this avoids further contributing to all the stuff already in land fills! By supporting these types of shops you help decrease on the clothing industries wastefulness. It’s like a recycling center for clothes. Instead of trashing your stuff why not sell it? Also, purchasing previously owned designer things at a discounted price not only saves you money but cuts down on the amount of stuff occupying space in the Earth and in numerous stores. Our Mother Earth will thank you for helping Her get healthier. If you enjoy shopping then you probably know what the best part of cleaning out your closet is, …getting new stuff! It’s much more economical and eco- friendly to go the resale shop route.

2) Starbucks Gold Membership

This is a great option if you find yourself at Starbucks a lot, it actually saves you money, and if you’re paying five dollars for a coffee then you could probably use it. All you do is download the Starbucks app and register a card(gift cards are good for this) and through the app you can start earning rewards. Earn enough “stars,” and you’ll become a gold member – cue the oohs and ahs- This means you’ll qualify for free stuff! While the whole rewards program is really a gimmick to get you to spend more money, if you are a frequent customer it really can benefit you. Because, after all we all know more money is the last thing Starbucks needs! However, you can use the program to your advantage(take that big business! Not to mention, you get a fancy pants membership card that will impress your friends and strangers alike. That is, if you’re into that sorta thing. Otherwise just enjoy your free drink rewards and order the largest one possible, because you can.

3) The Kids Section?

Why is it, that at nearly every store(I’m lookin’ at you Target) the kids section is so much better!? Just because I “grew up,” doesn’t mean that suddenly I’m boring. I’d like some bright, whimsical, and cheery designs for me too thank you very much. If your in ned of a pick up to the doldrums of the “Adult,” decor I suggest checking out the kids section. It’s there you’ll find a bright pink flowered hand towel, and that’s sure to bring some more fun into your visual life! Personally I prefer some cute kid touches floating around my space because it’s not so boring and can actually help your blaise moods sometimes! So, don’t be afraid, just take a stroll through the kids section every once in awhile. I promise it won’t hurt.

4) Dylan’s Candy Bar

While I know this place doesn’t need any reps from me, I’m going to do it anyway. Why? As above, the whole place is a kids section! The daughter of illustrious 1990’s designer Ralph Lauren, Dylan Lauren owns it, hence the name. It may just be a candy store but it’s actually pretty fun place. It’s even better if you have a sweet tooth(like me) that requires appeasement once in awhile. While this particular candy shop doesn’t come cheap, you’ll be sure to find at least one special item to enjoy. If you can control yourself and not fill up your basket Dylan’s is very affordable.

5) 7 Star Replica Handbags

Up until today I thought knock off or “inspired,” handbags were just fake designer purses. You could buy them in China Town NYC, in a creepy secretive way and they break super easy and that’s that. However, woe as me was I wrong! As it turns out they(whomever they are) have a rating system for replica handbags. A seven star rated bag means that it’s the closest thing to real you can get and they’re made much better then the ones from China Town. As it turns out, you can get them online(bad idea) but they can also be found in select upsale resale shops like #1! In fact, I put a very nice Chanel number on layaway today.

6) TonyMoly Face Masks

If you want flawless skin, follow the lead of those who have it. This is where Korean Beauty comes in. Many of the “Asian persuasion,” have beautiful skin. Therefore, not too long ago Korean beauty products became popular. Not only are they exotic but also fun, bubble masks anyone? This particular line has a slew of very nice and effective face sheet masks. You might feel a little bit like Hannibal Lecter wearing it for 30 minutes but you’ll feel fabulous(and look it) after it’s off! You can find them on Amazon here.

7) The Jungle Book in 3D

This popular Children’s tale by Rudyard Kipling comes to life and in your face in this Disney directed film. It not only features the voices of Christopher Walken, Bill Murray, and Scarlett Johansson, but the CGI and 3Danimation is stellar! All the animals are so well done you’ll just want to reach out and pet them pretty badly, especially if you love animals. Overall the storyline flows well, the visuals are great, and it will leave you smiling. Therefore go see it before it’s out of theaters!

And finally, the drink! A cool as a cucumber cilantro margarita that will refresh you and make others green with envy. Find the recipe here.

Cheers!

April 25, 2016

Margarita Monday vol. VI

*blogged while drinking mango juice and listening to David Bowie 45’s*

Oh Monday, what can we say about you? For most of us you mean another too long work week. But for some you’re like the sunrise of a new day(or in this case week. With a myriad of new possibilities;a day to embark on missions to complete new goals and reach new heights. Whether you love it or hate it, it’s here. So, to make it a little better here’s a list of seven things to have on your “radar,” one for each day!

#1) perpetualkid.com

Wait a minute, there’s a website full of kitschy gifts and fun things I remember and loved as a kid!? Yup. If you’ve never quite grown up and want to still have some fun in this “grown up,” world consider checking out this website. Best of all it’s not too expensive! So, you can save up your pennies for the weekend or Disney World, whichever comes first.
#2) Anonymous book sending

Do you love books? Is there one in particular that really helped you? Well, send it to some unsuspecting friend! Yup, if it’s something that could benefit someone you know, why not drop it in the mail and surprise someone? It’s even more fun when it is anonymous, because it becomes a gift for both of you. Not only will it potentially drive them nutty because of the anonymity, but the sudden appearance of a mysterious book will very likely prompt them to read it. Therefore, if your intention was for them to read it, mission accomplished! See, Monday is shaping up already.

#3) Pay it backward?

The next time you’re in a line, whether it’s in a car or on foot, buy the persons order behind you! It’s easier to do this anonymously in a drive thru. However, it’s not like you can’t whisper to the barista(or cashier) to pay for the person standing behind you either. This may cost you, but frankly it’s a lot of fun and you could start a chain reaction of kindness! Good deed done for the day? check.

#4) Dr. Caroline Leaf
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Since my brain has become a large point of interest for doctors and me too, finding this knowledgeable Woman has been incredible. Forget the self help books, the gurus, and psychologists, listen to this lady! She has a show on television and can be found online as well. So, give Her a look here.

#5) Five Leaves Cafe, Greenpoint Brooklyn.

What can I say? Good food, Heath Ledger, and Brooklyn. Those words alone should sell you! This place is not only co-owned by the late actor Heath Ledger(before his death) but also pretty cute. The food is also good too. I had the pleasure of having brunch here on a sunny day next to a hoard of hungry hipsters. The service was sweet, the burger was delish, and I loved the location! So, give it a try cool guy(or gal) if you have the chance!\

#6) Siggis Yogurt
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Yogurt, I think I’ve found your perfect form. Not only is this free of all the junk(no high fructose,colors,or extra sugar) but is also a very healthy and tasty treat. Not to mention, it’s Icelandic(Bjork fans rejoice! It also happens to use simple ingredients and not a lot of sugar. Dive in for a thick, creamy, tasty, and protein packed experience. People, just buy it.

#7) Conscious Beauty Products!
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As I gazed into my drawer of old and new makeup products I thought “You only have one face.” I repeat, one face. Therefore you don’t really need 20 different overpriced eyeshadows, 6 high dollar lipsticks, and about 3 different kinds of mixing bases. I may be exaggerating but not really, and you get the idea… Just like fast fashion helps destroy the environment, so does the cosmetics industry. The production and consumption of beauty products has some not so pretty side effects on our world. To name a few, the chemicals in many products get into the environment and break down ecosystems, the waste from the packaging takes hundreds of years to decompose in landfills, and all that stuff going down your drain makes its way into our water systems. Not to mention the sheer amount of money these products cost. Walk into any beauty store and you can easily drop $100.00 in less than 30 minutes. It’s very likely your skin doesn’t want to be assaulted by three different kinds of skincare products in less than a month too. Just like any billionaire company, they make money off of making you think you need more. Some beauty companies may tout ‘natural’ on the label, but guess what? A higher demand for natural ingredients means more mining the Earth to get them fast and cheap. Therefore, certainly not sustainably. If you really want to help the Earth and your pocketbook, just stop buying so much of these pricey products.

And finally, cheers! with this agave margarita. Get the recipe here.

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Drink up!
bleu

April 24, 2016

The Feels

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Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive. -Dalai Lama

How much better could we understand each other, if we were able to actually inhabit each other’s bodies? Like some version of the movie Freaky Friday. I certainly know that I wished someone could inhabit my body(other than me) so they could better understand my point of view. However, there is the ability of empathy , but even that wasn’t enough for me or others that are in a crazy situation. Mere words were not enough, I wanted an absolute understanding and connection with someone. The support group I had gone to before, I left because it was too negative and seemingly a group of people sitting around griping and being sad. More recently I actually revisited the group and found it to be better. Although, there was an overwhelming sentiment of people just wanting a relationship. Some had even never really had a romantic relationship. Whether romantic or not, it seems that well and “sick,” people are looking for a real connection. Why is that? Even in an age that is so well connected.What makes it so difficult to connect with another human? Have we built up our walls of protection to be too resilient? Is it a lack of empathy? Perhaps it’s a mix of both. Whatever the reason, it’s clear that we need to be connecting to more than just the internet. Except for anyone in an isolated circumstance, the internet becomes the connection. When you can’t really leave your house and your social life is hanging on by a thread, the internet offers some much needed socialization. Personally, I’m very social and I like talking to people so this was crucial for me. However, what about those who only see a caregiver and don’t really use the computer!? I have often asked the Woman that comes over to help me, how much She knows about the other people She works for. Of course, this is not done only to be nosy on my part. Knowing that some of those people likely desperately need a social life, why not help provide them with that? Sadly, not everyone realizes how important that is until it happens to them. Again, where is that body switching machine!? We really do need more understanding among us. Since this occurred to me I have become so much more aware of the spirits inside of some people. The World may see a smelly, street person, but I see the person inside who really just needs some compassion and acknowledgement. You don’t have to be religious, a guru, or “new age,” to see someones true spirit. You just need to pay attention in those places that the rest of the world(or those around you) ignore.

pay attention,

bleu

April 18, 2016

Staring Contest

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Never be bullied into silence. Never allow yourself to be made a victim. Accept no one’s definition of your life, but define yourself.”
– Harvey Fierstein.

How often do you feel the unexpected gaze or stare of a stranger? Well, I do quite a bit. So much in fact that my usually non-violent cute little cousin spouted off frustrated comments about one such incident. I believe the statement, “ I would kick Her in Her big dumb face,” was actually used. As mean as that sounds it was very sweet because She was upset about the gawking of one particular Woman. I, on the other hand didn’t even notice it. I’m sure people wonder what in the heck happened to me, which is fine. It took a good while to feel okay about going out into public after the hospital due to the potential(and actual) gawking. However, I was told to hold my head high no matter what, and haven’t looked back since. Whether you feel particularly good or awfully different that makes no difference. Because, either way you should carry yourself with esteem. Your story is unknown to a stranger and certainly not their story.This is where unknowingly the Ray Bans tagline of “Never Hide,” is actually brilliant. At some point I decided people were staring because I’m so damn pretty, so there. This allowed any rude gawkers or gawking to quickly fade to black in my grand play of life. Understandably, my cousin is thirteen years old and has yet to learn this. Yet, people of every age could benefit from such an attitude! You don’t have to resemble a piece of beef jerky and wear stretch band waisted pants, and “special shoes,” before you stop caring what other people think. You can start doing that right now and it is freedom! Just imagine it like when kids pick their noses in public, “ We just don’t care people.” To have that feeling of freedom is pretty awesome. It means you can focus more on the important things and less on other people. Because, it is extremely likely the rest of the population is far too self absorbed to pay so much attention to you anyway. In those odd moments when they do, whether it’s for something spectacular(I do have Prada on, thanks!) Or something a bit embarrassing, it’s totally okay just breathe and move on. Granted, we’d rather be thought of as mostly spectacular the latter happens sometimes too. It is in those moments, whether occasionally or perpetual, we learn to just get back up. Besides, what somebody else eats does not give you a stomach ache unless you let it. Therefore, focus on what’s on your own plate. This isn’t to say you should be self absorbed, certainly not. Except, that sometimes what’s on your plate is more important than what they have on theirs. After all, they’re not living your life for you that’s in your hands.

go pick your nose!

bleu

April 18, 2016

Margarita Monday hooray!

Instead of sliding through the week feeling stuck why not pepper it with some fun new things!? Because, a new week does mean a fresh 5 days and 120 hours of new possibilities. Therefore, take advantage and use them well! Here’s a list of seven things that should be on your radar, one for each day!

#1) My Fitness Pal

As if you need another useless app cluttering up your phone,well if you actually use this one, it’s nearly indispensable! My great Grandmother stayed slim Her entire life(all 97 years of it) by keeping track of calories on paper in a little book. This app does the same thing but makes it incredibly easy and useful. Since I found myself less mobile and active since the stroke, this has been keeping me slim too, even losing weight! Therefore, I highly recommend it. If you aim to live a healthy lifestyle this makes it a whole lot easier. Especially if you live in the fat laden American culture, this will help you opt out of it. So get downloading and make life healthier and your body happy!

#2) Starbucks Roastery NYC

Starbucks Roastery photographed on March 10, 2016. (Joshua Trujillo, Starbucks)

As if Starbucks hasn’t nearly taken over Manhattan and the World enough already. They’re planning a 20,000 square foot roastery in the meat packing district much like the one they have in Seattle. Now instead of waiting in long lines, you can spend the whole afternoon there! Or you could just pick up a latte from one of their over 200 locations found in the city.

#3) This video
Perhaps I should be glad I didn’t have siblings?
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#4) Crown and Glory

Co-founded by alternative wedding blogger babe Kat Williams this whimsical and beautiful hair accessory line fills a much needed niche! Flower crowns may not be considered essential but they so should be! Not only does it draw attention to you for all the right reasons, but it seriously brightens up the day for everyone.

#5) lulu organics

Let’s be honest not only is washing your hair everyday a pain, but it’s also not good for it! Those oils on your scalp are there for a reason. However, you can find a happy balance by not washing it all the time. Enter, dry shampoo sprays and powders. This little product is a savior to all low maintenance ladies and hung over rock stars everywhere. Just spray your roots on those in between days, and wallah , back to a head of happy hair! It’s even better when it doesn’t harm your skin or the environment. Not to mention, its creator has a tree house how cool is that!?

#6) Strawberry Basil Popsicles
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This list is not complete without a tasty treat and this one happens to be awesome!
I came across these at a local food and flea market, which spurred me to buy some rocket pop molds and get to freezing strawberries! That and it was Summer after all.Find the recipe right here Ladies and Gents.

#7) Career Girl Daily App

I know, I know another app. The difference is, where one works on the internal this one works on the external! This one is especially useful if you’re a career minded female. Not to mention, it has loads of helpful reading material and may actually offer you some inspiration.

Lastly, Cheers! Sip on this smoky Summer watermelon number.
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Find the recipe here.

enjoy!
bleu

April 11, 2016

Margarita Monday

It’s that time again… no, not Christmas thank God. Whether you wanted it to happen or not, it’s here Monday funday! So, cheer up and make the next five days and 120 hours count. The question isn’t will you, but how are you going to do that? Well, for starters take stock, make some lists, and decide which goal you’re going to focus on. Therefore,( for now) sit back relax and enjoy this list of seven things that should be on your radar. One for each glorious day of the week.

#1) Jonathan Adler vice collection.

Oh, Jonathan you pricey and chic designer you.

As much as I wanted these when they first came out, I couldn’t justify spending a small fortune to hide my imaginary(or not) stash of uppers. However, these are not only funny but quite cute and functional. If you’ve ever read Valley of the Dolls(you so should) you’ll probably want one. Just try not to clutter up your vanity top with too many cute boxes, although I’m guilty of doing that too!

#2) Marimekko Target collection.

The sixties may have been over forty years ago, but this company has kept its style alive. However, not at 1960’s prices. Fortunately though, you’re in luck because Target has swooped in(yet again) with an affordable designer collaboration. You can bet when it drops in stores and online April 17th I’ll be there, ready to warm up my credit card by sliding it through check out. The odds are decent that this collection will go fast, so give it a looksie(made up word) for yourself.

#3) Vfish Chicago.

Not only is this a super comfy and cute brand but the origin of its name is spectacular.

The name was inspired by the founder’s beautiful and bad ass Grandmother Vera Fishbough, hence the name. It’s worth giving them a visit, and you can do that online here.

I have a few very soft and comfy pieces from them that I really like, so here’s a hint get the leggings!

#4) Lola Star.

There are quite a few shops and eateries lining the infamous Coney Island boardwalk, but nothing caught my eye quite like this awesome little shop. Not only is it super cute and kitschy, but the adorable owner designs all the cool shirts herself! Not to mention She attended a good art school located in my “home town!” So of course I was drawn to this shop even more, and not just because of the pink unicorns. It’s simply just a unique and cool shopping destination on the boardwalk. Can’t seem to get to the East Coast of the U.S? Well, you’re in luck because you can shop online! Just go here, and while your at it look up Her new shop in Rockaway too. Overall this girl created a good brand, and is full of fun things(ie hula classes, roller rinks, and LOTS of pink!

#5) Conscious Closets.

This may sound like a lot of work, but it’s not just for hippies and tree huggers. The fact is, our culture is incredibly wasteful. A large part of this waste has been what they call “fast fashion,” so try to avoid those bargain stores like Forever 21 and H&M. The video below will help explain this a bit more, so watch it! Pretty please?

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bI1vlX7OdLM&w=560&h=315%5D

#6) Get a smashbook!?

To summarize what a smashbook is, it’s like a scrapbooking speed round. You don’t have to make it pretty, just stick and glue(with notes if you wish) the things you like in a handy book you can keep them all in. The reason this is helpful is because it can really help declutter your space. Instead of scraps of paper and pictures randomly pasted on your walls or cork board, why not put them all in a book? Putting all your favorite images or quotes in one place gets them off the wall and really opens up your space. Not only that but you’ll still have them all! Just in a cute book.. If you don’t know where to start, check THIS out. Having a more minimal space allows for increased productivity and a clearer mind. Therefore, I really recommend doing this, especially in your office space!

#7) The Rustbelt Market in Ferndale, Michigan.

I can’t rep this place enough because it’s so unique and cool. Not only does it support local artisans and independent business but it is SO FUN! One building that houses a collection of cool vendors that you won’t find anywhere else. If you’d like to get more details about this place check out my blog post about it here.

Lastly, Cheers! with a blackberry thyme margarita. Find the recipe here.

Drink up!

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