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Book Reviews On Hold (Temporarily) . . .

Happy Sunday! I’m traveling from my friend’s home and it feels really good to have a few days in a warmer locale (not quite as warm as San Juan, but it’s still a good break from the ordinary).

However, as a heads up, I wasn’t able to finish October’s book selection. Between work, going out with friends, and planning for NaNoWriMo, I simply didn’t have the time. And, until NaNoWriMo is done, I won’t be picking up the Mae West again. I’m a little bummed that I couldn’t get it all done, but I’ve put life on hold long enough: I’m overdue for some adventures!

So, next month, I’ll do my Mae West review and read a “light” book so that I’m back on schedule. I will be excited to resume my normal schedule in December!

food

Review: For the Love of Chocolate

During my last Carytown excursion, I went to Xtras Cafe and tried the delicious crabcake entree. However, the trip wasn’t just for the sake of trying a new meal. I wanted to also get some candy from my favorite chocolate shop, For the Love of Chocolate.

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The shop is small but packed with delicious options. I’m always impressed with the variety of chocolates and high quality service. The only downside of the shop is that they don’t have online shopping capabilities.

This trip, I focused on truffles. And boy were they delicious!

When I get a little more time, I’ll do a more in-depth review of specific truffles and other chocolates available there. In the meantime, check out the mint chocolate truffle that I enjoyed.

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Have any of you been to this chocolate shop? If not, it’s worth a trip! It’s located at 3136 West Cary Street, in Richmond, VA. I’ll see you there!

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Review: The Ordinary’s Argireline Solution

Happy Friday, beloveds! We made it through another week!

As part of my ongoing review of the products I’ve purchased from The Ordinary, I will be sharing my experience with the company’s Argireline Solution. Much like the squalane oil, I’d never heard of argireline until I started shopping with The Ordinary.

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Argireline is a trademarked solution that works on facial lines, reducing the depth and improving the overall appearance of wrinkled skin. According to The Ordinary’s website,

[…] Argireline improves the appearance of facial areas prone to developing dynamic folds, including around the eyes and in the forehead area. “

With those kinds of promises, I was eager to give it a try. I don’t have any deep wrinkling but, as with any skin issues, it’s better to be proactive than reactive. That being said, I bought a bottle and tried it out.

The directions for use are as follows:

Apply a few drops on the forehead and around the eyes twice daily before heavier treatments.

I applied the solution under my eyes, on my forehead, and my nose-to-mouth lines. I made the mistake of applying the solution liberally: it was runny like water. It’s definitely a “solution”: it doesn’t have the consistency of a serum. The product is clear, odorless, non-greasy and lightweight. It absorbed into my skin easily and wasn’t sticky.

I used it for a few days and saw a difference within a week. My forehead – which I’m known for frowning up – was noticeably smoother. I didn’t see much difference in my eyes and nose-to-mouth lines,  other than just general softness and feeling more moisturized.

I used up the entire bottle, and I intend to purchase again! I wish I’d taken before-and-after photos, so that you all can see the difference. But you don’t have to take my word for it: try it for yourself! It’s only $7.90 per bottle. I think it is well worth the investment!

life curation

Creating a Staycation

After experiencing several intensely busy months at work, I had intentions of taking a vacation to the warm, sunny island of Puerto Rico. I saw myself walking the beaches, touring Old San Juan, and getting the tan of a lifetime.

Then Hurricane Maria happened.

So, needless to say, my dreams of soaking up the Caribbean sun were dashed to pieces. No beaches, touring or tanning for me. However, I count my blessings: my Puerto Rican friends are safe and healthy, the island is starting to recover and I’m positive that they will rebuild and be better than ever.

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(Photo courtesy of WeClipArt)

That being said, I still have a few scheduled days off and no concrete plans.

What’s a girl to do?

Time for Operation Staycation! I started getting everything I need to have a fantastic time at home. Here are some of the elements needed for a restful and restorative staycation:

  • An itinerary. Just because you’re staying at home doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t plan out how to spend your time. The reason why most staycations fail is because there is no clear plan in place. Trust me, a good staycation involves some sort of planning.
  • Tools of relaxation. Clean sheets with high thread count, a fluffy robe and comfortable slippers, plush towels, and luxurious bath products are the tip of the iceberg when it comes to tools of relaxation.
  • Limited distraction. Lesser amounts – or complete elimination – of social media, television, phone calls from annoying people, no checking into work email accounts should all be the goal. Whatever distracts you and makes you feel stressed or tired should be minimized or completely removed during the stay-cation.
  • A commitment to relaxation. Be clear on what it will take to make you feel rested and relaxed then DO THAT!

If you all can’t go somewhere fabulous during the holiday season, at least commit to enjoying a little bit of staycation time. You won’t regret it!

life curation

Preparing for 2018: A Resource for Developing Your Vision

Happy Hump Day! And YAY for making it to November 1st! You already know that I’m doing NaNowWriMo, so a lot of the posts for this month will be brief but (hopefully) useful.

You can check out the links at the bottom of this post to see the rest of the “Preparing for 2018” series. Today’s post is going to provide a resource that will help you get clear on what you envision for your life, both next year and for years to come.

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(photo courtesy of HappyBlackWoman.com)

Rosetta Thurman of HappyBlackWoman.com has created an amazing guide that will help you shine a light on multiple areas of your life, and will guide you in finding out what your ideal life looks like.

With your ideal life clearly envisioned, you can figure out what steps need to happen in the next year, in order to get you closer to your dream. You can download the guide here. By the way, this resource works for anyone, not just happy Black women. So no matter what your demographic is, check it out! I think you’ll find it very useful.

 

Other Preparing for 2018 Posts:

Preparing for 2018 (Introductory Post)

Preparing for 2018: Before Setting Your Goals

Preparing for 2018: Commit It In Writing

Preparing for 2018: Listening to Your Intuition

art

Artist to Know: Lina Iris Viktor

I regularly mention my love of art in my posts, and one of the highlights of my art experiences came this year, when I attended Neneh Ada Yang’s first U.S. Art Exhibition. Now, I’d like to discuss Lina Iris Viktor, an artist that I find fascinating and incredibly talented.

You can check her out at her website, but for the sake of getting a quick preview of her work, look at photos of one of her hauntingly beautiful paintings. This one is Syzygy (2015).

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Lina’s works are striking combinations of black, white, 24 kt gold leaf, and Majorelle blue (a shade closely resembling Yves Klein’s preferred shade of ultramarine blue). Obviously, I have a thing for Majorelle blue, too (check out the handbag on my Current Wish List to see what I mean).

Lina’s paintings have an indescribable, otherworldly quality. There’s something so luxe yet approachable about her creations. I’m inserting an interview with Lina below. I really enjoyed hearing her discuss her preferred color palette, thoughts on the importance of art, and her personal opinion about “starving artists”.

Lina currently has an exhibition in London (unfortunately, it ends today). I’ve signed up on her website so that I can get updates as she releases new exhibition information. In the meantime, I’ll browse through her online gallery (you can access the gallery here). You all should check her out! In fact, I’ll add another video for your viewing pleasure!

 

life curation

Words of Wisdom: Josephine Baker

Happy Monday! As we start a new week, I thought this would be a good time to tap into some words of wisdom. One woman that inspires me tremendously is Josephine Baker.

The effervescent Josephine was talented, stylish, graceful and perfectly poised. The trailblazing entertainer left behind an abusive, impoverished childhood and eventually went on to achieving global acclaim. She decided to live in Paris, France where she experienced the happiness and peace that eluded her during her formative years.

Josephine was not just an entertainer: she was also an activist and doting mother. I find her life and perspectives to be so inspirational. Here are a few Josephine Baker quotes that I thought you may enjoy. Vive La Baker!

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(Photos courtesy of Pinterest, APassion4Jazz, and Izquotes)

 

 

life curation · style

Current Wish List

Some of the things that I’m drooling over currently (in no particular order). . .

These Wonder Woman bracelets by Alex and Ani are so elegant but still lots of fun. These are a very grown-up way of injecting a little fun into your style. I love both shades – gold and silver – so I’ll probably end up getting both!

 

I can’t get enough of Ralph and Russo’s ornate heels. These are the Eden heels with black satin and rose gold leaf detailing – divine!

 

This beautiful vintage-style coat from Collectif really fits my classic aesthetic. And the cape is so cute and unique: you won’t find a lot of people wearing this design!

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The Jackie Dress by Black Halo is a classic, and this 3/4 length sleeved rendition is perfect for the cooler months. This mermaid pink shade is also so pretty and feminine: what’s not to love?

This incredible cobalt blue bag is made by Gregory Sylvia. I love the color and shape: it’s classic with a twist. Even the name of the style – the Devereaux – screams glamour and elegance.

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Those are the items I’m lusting over right now. Let’s see how many I get over this holiday season!

art · beauty

Time for Costumes . . .

Yay! It’s Saturday! I’ve been waiting for this day all week!

Halloween is upon us, so you can expect a lot of people to be out and about as they gather some last minute items.

In the spirit of the season, I’m posting links to incredible Halloween makeup tutorials. Even if you don’t celebrate, you’re bound to find something fun that you can incorporate into your everyday look. Enjoy!

 

 

 

food

Review: Xtra’s Cafe

While cruising around Carytown (a quaint neighborhood in Richmond, VA), I stumbled upon Xtra’s Cafe, a sleek, vintage-inspired restaurant quietly tucked away on Cary Street.

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The hostess was warm and charming, and getting a seat was a quick process. While I sat near the stairwell (that takes you from the ground level to the actual dining area), the seats facing the bar was full.

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Painting closest to the patio

I loved the vintage paintings on walls and the abundant light streaming from the patio. The paintings really enhanced the classic, speakeasy feel of the restaurant.

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But the real star of this restaurant is the food. Honey, the FOOD! I tried the crabcakes with asparagus and jalapeno macaroni and cheese. When I tell you that the food was delicious … My mouth waters at the thought of it! I can’t wait to go back and try some of pita pizzas as well as the other entrees.

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If you’re ever in the Richmond area, Carytown is a must-see, and you should definitely stop into Xtra’s Cafe (3322 West Cary Street). You won’t be disappointed!