Thinking About Integrity

Dear Diary:

I have been following Strawberry Singh's blog for years and have always enjoyed her diverse topics.  It's not just about fashion or the latest mesh head.  I tend not to gravitate towards exclusively fashion blogs and like to have a variety of topics to read.  So when she posted on February 3, 2017 a piece that has been getting a lot of attention, I read it with care.  I have now followed along the responses since then and couldn't just sit on my hands without typing my brain out.

Where are the "freedoms" set down by the First Amendment - of speech? of religion? I am appalled at the people who railed against her post, especially since many of them didn't really know what they were talking about and obviously just wanted to prove THEY could have the right to say anything but Berry couldn't.  When hatred and stupidity come together, it causes people to become obnoxious.  

The outpouring of negativity towards Berry's post was not about her picture or about her defining Muslims, it was aimed at her because she had the fortitude to make a stand against the establishment.  I believe her dissenters are probably those that have no friends that are of a different race or religion, than they are. They can only accept what they've been told is right for an appropriate world.

I am not an American but feel I have every right to comment on the political climate in the States as eventually it will effect my country as well as other countries.  Right now, it feels that this administration is not a cohesive group working together to better the country.  Each person seems to have their own ideas about a topic and very rarely does this information put forth, come out as truth. [Attention Mr. Press Secretary: It's a good idea to know the name of the head of a country] 

Congratulations Berry on being a strong advocate for ethicality.  Never sit back and not voice your opinion. Never give up on your principles for the sake of the objectors.  Never resort to being only a fashion blog.

These are only my opinions.

Good Night for now.

I'm wearing:
Body: Maitreya Lara
Skin: Izzie's Romy
Eyes: Ikon Sunrise (deep hazel)
Lashes: MC Falsies
Hair: Mina Odyle

Dress: Rebel Hope Gina Sweater Dress (coal black)
Boots: Maitreya Moccasin boots (black)
Pin: Mood L'amore vola (graphite) (no longer available)

My Thinking Chair: Myrrine Noir Collection (flowers)

Happy Valentine's Day!

Dear Diary:

Valentine's Day is not my most favourite day of the year.  It's often so commercialized and one feels pressure to buy candy, flowers or anything for your significant other. But I do like to utilize some of the great available items in my second world.

Nantra always has interesting Valentine props or poses.  This year, they've put out a variety of e-cards that may be purchased from The Gacha Garden.  I would have been happy with any of the cards there but I particularly liked this one so I'm glad I got it first try.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Good Night for now.

I'm wearing:
Body: Maitreya Lara
Skin: Izzie's Romy
Lipstick: Madrid Solo-U-Color-It Grace (no longer available)
Eyes: Ikon Sunrise (deep hazel)
Eye shadow: alaskametro Matte mist (charcoal)
Lashes: MC Falsies
Manicure: Zoz Spring silver unique
Hair: elua iola2

Dress: Entice move your body (heart)
Shoes: N-core Kate lace (garnet)
Earrings: Finesmith heart to heart (no longer available)
Necklaces: Maxi Gossamer Twin hearts (short and medium)
Bracelet: Cae Lovestruck (at The Gacha Garden til Feb 28)

Valentine card: Nantra Poses V-card (with cat) #1 (at The Gacha Garden til Feb 28)

I Found The Clock Museum

Dear Diary:

I was watching a program on TV the other night about Ferdinand VI and his love of clocks.  Apparently he collected over 700 clocks in his palace.  The last one was made by a Swiss clock maker and a brief mention of it can be viewed here on YouTube.

That got me thinking since I like clocks too and have several in my second world house.  I was searching for a new place to purchase one and found the mention of a clock museum.  I just had to go.

I found the clock museum to be an extremely interesting place with over a hundred clocks on display.  There were many clocks that were very traditional - Grandfather clocks with ornate wooden cases; clocks for the fireplace mantel; digital wall clocks - but there were also unusual pieces.  I particularly liked this one shown in the picture. It's a large representative of the earth, with a circulating moon and showing the time in different zones. Beneath the world, is the digital time.  As each second, minute or hour changes, the numbers drop to the first floor below.  It is a spectacular and it's hard to stop watching the time fall away.

There are also some outdoor clocks that can be viewed in the garden.

If you get a chance, visit this wonderful exhibit of timepieces.  It's well worth the trip.

Good Night for now.

I'm wearing:
Body: Maitreya Lara
Skin: Izzie's Romy
Hair: LaViere Amanda

Coat: Charme Emma (beige)
Hat: Shi cloche hat
Boots: Mutresse Nikki

Pose: !bang (now on SL Marketplace)

Location: Second floor of The Clock Museum

There's Something About A Baby

Dear Diary:

Yes, there really is something about a baby!  I never had the desire to "have" a baby in my second world but when a friend presented me with this little one, my heart just melted.  It's something about that mothering instinct.

This cutie comes with a wardrobe too, so pink and girly.  

I enjoyed cuddling this tiny girl...for a bit.  I have trouble enough looking after myself and all my inventory in my second life.  I wouldn't want to have the baby disappear into my closet forever.  

Good Night for now.

I'm wearing:
Body: Maitreya Lara
Skin: Izzie's Romy
Lipstick: (from) Izzie's Romy (rust)
Hair: Argrace Yae (with ribbed knit scarves HUD)

Dress: Shine by ZD Aneska Mix 3 (at Tres Chic til February 5)
Earrings: YS&YS roundie 
Rings: Izzie's Celestial Midi Rings (gold)

Baby: NOeditiON our little babies (pose baby) (at Ultra til February 15)

Pose: with baby

A Winter Walk In The Cold

Dear Diary:

I found a beautiful spot for a cold winter walk.  My winter is so long, I like to get outside as much as I can.  It does make the cold weather more tolerable.

I visited The Retreat the other day and it is a winter wonderland for sure.  At the landing point, you go through gates and follow the path along, passing many interesting buildings.  There is signage along the way to let you know where you are going.  I came to a fork in the path and chose to go right, walking into a bower of trees, shielding the snow from the gravel path.  Following it along, I came to a beautiful little chapel, very welcoming and peaceful.  It was truly an amazing discovery.

If I had chosen to go left, I would have come upon the Galicia Cultural Centre. Inside there is a display of many photographs that are beautifully done.  They are for sale at a reasonable price.  Adjacent to that building, is a night club that displays a super dance floor.  I haven't been back at night to check it out but I'm positive it's a busy place.

This is a area for all to visit and have a remarkable "snowy" experience.

It's strange when blowing on your fingers to warm them up doesn't help.

Good Night for now.

I'm wearing:
Body: Maitreya Lara
Skin: Izzie's Romy
Blush: Izzie's winter blush
Hair (with hat): Truth Snow Kitty

Parka: Aphorism winter parka (blue) (at The Season's Story til January 31)
Leggings: Maitreya leggings (black)
Mittens: Pixel Mode mittens (blue)
Scarf: Mr Poet wide scarf
Boots: fame femme knitted uggs (camo) (at The Crossroads til January 28)

Pose: WetCat 

Location: The Retreat

A New Store To Me #16

Dear Diary:

I can't remember where I saw this store mentioned but when I read about it I was intrigued so I just had to visit.  I fell in love with the clothes immediately.  The store is Agata!!

There is a great variety of clothes, mostly casual, but very stylish.  I tried on dresses, with scarves and without; a cute long tee that would be a nice sleep shirt; and a dress with jacket.  I picked out the suit right away as one of my favourites.  It came in 4 colours - white, black, gold and the plum I'm wearing.  You can wear it as an outfit or jacket and skirt separately.  The fit was quite good.  I needed to tweak a bit but that often happens.  I also tried on a cocktail dress and then put on a fur wrap over.  The combination was stunning so I think I'll pop back for that.

Coincidentally, after I bought my suit, Kustom 9 opened up and Agata offered a cute two piece outfit in 6 colours - black, brown, tan, red, pink and my choice, blue.  I had to buy this too!!  If you purchase the fatpack, you are able to change skirt and sweater colours

The store is nicely laid out with no crowding of merchandise.  It seems new things are being added frequently.  There is a group to join that will provide news of things to come.

Fly out and have a look!

Good Night for now.

I'm wearing from Agata:
(left): Agata Olive outfit (plum)
(right): Agata Terry knit two piece (blue) (at Kustom 9 til Feb 10)

Other:
Body: Maitreya Lara
Skin: Izzie's Romy
Eyes: Ikon Sunrise (deep hazel)
Lashes: MC Falsies
Eye shadow: alaskametro Matte Mist
Hair: nomatch NO ESCAPE

Boots: HH Lilou Fringe Booties with HUD
Rings: Izzie's celestial midi rings
Watch: RealEvil Industries Revox Cora watch

Pose: an lar

Skating In The Tropics

Dear Diary:

I live on a tropical sim with lots of sand, sun and palm trees...in my second world that is.  In my first world, it's lots of snow, snow and snow!!  So when my SL neighbour built an ice skating rink in between the sand dunes, it made me want to don my skates and go for a few turns around the rink.

I enjoy skating on an outdoor rink.  There's something about the atmosphere that makes it more exciting than skating indoor.  There's also the excitement of skating on an outdoor rink on a tropical sim!!  How much fun is that!!  

Good Night for now.

I'm wearing:
Body: Maitreya Lara
Skin: Izzie's Romy
Hair: D!va Erika

Skating dress: Dead Dollz (9) Avatars on ice (Lutz Eggshell)
Skates: Abranimations Super Ice Skates

Pose: in skates

Christmas Clean-up Is Always Sad

Dear Diary:

I start decorating my house for Christmas in early December.  I put up lights; I get out the Christmas place mats; I decorate the trees (one in every room); and I chill the egg nog.  I do this in both my worlds and I love doing it.  Unfortunately, I have to take it all down at least sometime and put it away for another year to come around.  To me, it's always sad to see how bare my house looks when everything is put away but I knew it had to be done.  So yesterday afternoon, I started.

It seems that getting the decorations out and up goes much faster than getting them down and in! Hopefully they will all go into the storage area until next December.

Good Night for now.

I'm wearing:
Body: Maitreya Lara
Skin: Izzie's Romy
Hair: EMO-tions Faith

Sweater: Myst Fashion Mesh Snowflake Nightshirt (blue) (SL Marketplace)
Leggings: Izzie's nordic leggings
Slippers: Meli Imako cozy boot slippers (blue) (SL Marketplace)

Ornaments in box:
what next new year's 2017
La Galleria mesh ornament wreath
Jian festive potted tree
La Galleria nutcracker
La Galleria Christmas mat 

Box: Meli Imako carboard box (SL Marketplace)

Pose: Niqotine (no longer available)

Happy New Year 2017

Dear Diary:

Good Night for now.

New Year's Resolutions From 2016

Dear Diary:

I'm not really good at keeping New Year's Resolutions so when Strawberry Singh posted her "challenge" list last January, I decided I would try to follow as many of her suggested resolutions as I could.  So yesterday, I had a relaxing day and it was a perfect time to look back at what I had covered.

Here's my tally:

1. TED talks: I visited the site and found so many topics that I would like to explore but I settled on two that I enjoyed listening to. Here is my post.

2. Try a mesh head and wear for 24 hours: This was the first resolution that I did.  It was fun and I was glad I tried a mesh head out.  It was a group gift so I didn't spend any money.  I still haven't bought one but...maybe one of these days.  Here is my trial.

3. Vote:  I live in Canada so our election was in October 2015.  I voted (always do) a bit before the challenge.  The Canadian political results can  be viewed here.

4. Donate or volunteer:  In my first life I always donate to local charities as I feel this is most beneficial to my community, especially food banks and things for children.  In my second life, I donate to various sims so they can keep running and to special events such as Relay for Life.

5. Start a meme:  No.  I didn't do this.

6. Comment:  Over the year, I have left comments on a few blogs that I admire and appreciate.  I haven't done this previous to the challenge so I'm glad I told these people how much I enjoy reading their writing or how I admire their creativity.  

7. Reconnect:  I thought this was an excellent resolution.  So many of our friends slip away without us realizing.  I have a long friends list but I only see and talk to a few close people.  My results are here.

8. Explore Second Life:  I try to explore various sims that can be different or those that might be recommended.  One of the prettiest was Patron, mentioned here and one of the friendliest, Crestwick Island, visited here.

9. Give thanks:  No.  I didn't do this directly.  One time, a few years back, I was having trouble with getting rid of a griefer and his "grief"!!!  I finally contacted Guy Linden who managed to get rid of the noise-grating, light-flashing item that had invaded my house.  I thanked him profusely.  He is in charge of land, abandoned or otherwise. And...he does have a fan club you can join.

10. Start a daily mantra:  Meditating has been a part of my life for many years so this was an easy one for me to do.  Here it is.

This past year has gone quickly for me and I'm glad I tried to finish as many of the resolutions as I could.  I wonder if Berry will do another challenge for 2017 (??) Hmmm...better start getting ready now.

Good Night for now.

I'm wearing:
Body: Maitreya Lara
Skin: Izzie's Romy
Eyes: Ikon Sunrise (deep hazel)
Hair: enVOGUE Paige

Sweater: Pixicat Fall Sweater (green)
Leggings: Pixicat Fall tights (flower)
Slippers: JustDesign Slipper fur (black) (SL Marketplace)
Glasses: je suis charmante (red)

Bed, Christmas pillows: La Galleria

Pose (with cup): Lisp Tea Pose

Merry Christmas 2016

Dear Diary:

May the miracle of

CHRISTMAS

fill your heart with joy

Sam, Chloe and I want to wish you a very happy holiday season.
Spend happy times with family and friends.

Good Night for now.

The Annual Ugly Christmas Sweater Picture 2016

Dear Diary:

I love buying an "ugly" Christmas sweater but I'm not sure why everyone calls it "ugly".  I guess it's because it's usually loud and colourful, very Christmas branded but I really like wearing one in both my worlds.  It makes me smile. 

Most years, I can convince my friend Sam to buy a sweater with me and then we take a picture for the album.  This year Sam was very busy and said he couldn't commit to wearing a sweater, let alone shopping for one.  So I coerced Chloe into checking out the stores and then posing with me for the traditional Christmas picture.  Fortunately she was right into it and agreed immediately.

She found a great sweater with various Christmas designs and she certainly picked out a seasonally appropriate one.  I invited her over so we could "do" the pose.

This is definitely going into the album for 2016.

Good Night for now.

Chloe is wearing:
Hair: Milana Mel
Sweater: Hilly Haalan Mimi sweater Xmas edition
Leggings: Tee*fy Soft wool jersey leggings (scarlett)

I'm wearing:
Hair: Cheveux F063
Sweater: Pink Cream Pie Ugly Christmas sweater (wine) (SL Marketplace)
Leggings: Maitreya Leggings (black)

Christmas sign: Balaclava Noel decor

Pose: RIDIC (SL Marketplace)

A Visit To The SL Christmas Expo

Dear Diary:

I'm continuing my search for Christmas decorations and clothing.  I flew out to the SL Christmas Expo yesterday and had a wonderful day searching the 4 different sims that offered such a diverse array of goods.

There are many items being offered at the Christmas Expo.  You can shop for a whole outfit - from dresses to jewelry - to new furnishings or Christmas decor and get a pet for your house all at the same time.   

Of course, after a few hours of walking, I ended up at the bakery where I definitely had my eye on those delicious cupcakes.

When you purchase any items at the Expo, or bid on items for auction, the sponsors make sure that money goes to the support of Relay for Life and the Cancer Society. You not only have great entertainment, lovely scenery, great shopping, but you're contributing to a worthwhile cause.

The SL Christmas Expo is open for one more day so you have time to take in all the sights.

Good Night for now.

I'm wearing:
Body: Maitreya Lara
Skin: Izzie's Romy
Eyes: Ikon Sunrise (deep hazel)
Lashes: MC Falsies
Lipstick: Izzie's Raspberry
Hair with hat: Tableau Vivant Baum (at Tannenbaum til Dec 25)

Coat and sweater: (amiable) Winter checked knit coat (blue)
Leggings: Maitreya leggings (black)

Location: SL Christmas Expo

Decorating The Christmas Tree

Dear Diary:

Once the calendar turns to December, I start thinking about decorating my house.  Of course one of the first Christmas items I think about is the tree.  

In my first world, I put up a tree in every room.  Of course most are small and artificial but in the living room, I have a real tree.  I don't have a "theme" although I admire the ones my friends create.  My tree is an eclectic variety of ornaments collected from grandparents, parents and family.  Each means a lot to me and I add them every year with love and good memories.

Last night, in my second world, I invited my friends over to help decorate my main tree.  

The men put on the lights and then stood back admiring their work while Chloe and I started to add the decorations.  It takes a long time just to get everything right but the time goes fast when you have friends to help.

Good Night for now.

Chloe is wearing:
Hair: Analog Dog Charlotte
Dress: Baiastice Shirt dress (Jacquard) (at Uber til Dec 23)
Ornament: A+S holiday ornament #3 (silver) (at Tannenbaum til Dec 25)

I'm wearing:
Hair: no match No Break
Dress: alaskametro Heather sweaterdress (beige)
Leggings: Maitreya leggings suede (olive)
Boots: aDiva Lisbeth boots (SL Marketplace)

Tree: Trompe Loeil Holiday tree (older version)

Pose: Frozen bauble pose (at Tres Chic til Dec 10)

My Daily Mantra

Dear Diary:

I meditate often.  I used to do it every day but now I find I can do it whenever I feel I want to, whether I'm at home, on the bus or sitting on the deck.  I have a mantra. A mantra is described as "a word or sound repeated to aid concentration in meditation". This word I use to slow my breathing and get me relaxed but it's private so I can't share that with you.  I also go to a yoga class twice a week that can put me in the "zone".

I also tell myself everyday:
     1. I am strong
     2. I am smart
     3. I am loyal
     4. I believe in me
     5. I never give up
     6. I am confident
     7. I am positive
     8. I am healthy
     9. I learn something new everyday
   10. I am loved

This is part of Strawberry Singh's last years new year's challenge.  

Good Night for now.

I'm wearing:
Body: Maitreya Lara
Skin: Izzie's Romy
Eyes: Ikon Sunrise (deep hazel)
Lashes: MC falsies
Hair: EM0-tions Hannah

Top: Blueberry Lola top (hola angel)
Pants: R3volt Clara yoga pants (with HUD)

Yoga mat: Super Reality yoga mat set

Pose: Nantra namaste

The Beginning Of The Search

Dear Diary:

After posting my last entry, I decided to take some of my own thoughts and venture out for a look at what's coming into the stores for the coming season.  There are a few items I buy every year so I wanted to make sure these were available to add to my Christmas presents.  I need to get certain things early since they have to be mailed away.

Every year I buy an ugly Christmas sweater in my second world.  I think they're innovative and they always seem to get a comment or two from my friends.  I went into one store that I frequent but it seemed to be too early for the sweaters to be out. I stopped and asked the sales representative if she had any idea of when the sweaters would be put on the shelf.  Her reply was, "It shouldn't be too long now.  Keep checking back."  I told her I would since the sign encouraged me to continue on in my search.

Next stop - the decoration area!

Good Night for now.

I'm wearing:
Body: Maitreya Lara
Skin: Izzie's Romy
Eyes: Ikon Sunrise (deep hazel)
Lipstick: mock Cosmetics Venom
Hair: barberyumyum #81

Jacket (with sweater): Entice It's Raining Men (grey plaid) (at Sad November til Nov 26)
Leggings: Maitreya (black)
Boots: fame femme Liana boots (grey) (at The Liasion Collaborative til Nov 30)
Earrings: Maxi Gossamer Amalfi summer nights
Purse: C'est la vie Dulcie bag

Thinking That Time Really Does Fly

Dear Diary:

Here it is...the second week in November...next week the middle of the month...and I need to start thinking of the holiday season that's just around the corner.

I usually start thinking about Christmas around this time.  I have quite a few gifts to buy for family and a scant number for some close friends.  I really don't care for the crowds, the pushing and shoving when there's a bargain, or the dents my car often gets in the jam-packed parking lot.  That's all the reason to start early.  

Whew!!  Feel so good after venting.  I think I'll start checking off the list tomorrow.

Good Night for now

I'm wearing:
Body: Maitreya Lara
Skin: Izzie's Romy (also Raspberry lipstick)
Eyes: Ikon Sunrise (deep hazel)
Eye shadow: elymode (silver) (gift) (SL Marketplace)
Lashes: MC Falsies
Nail polish: Shakeup! Maitreya basic darks
Hair: Analog Dog Proud Mary

Dress: Dead Dollz Go (black) (for older FLF)
Shoes: Essenz Perth (black)
Earrings: Lybra (silver)
Bracelet: Finesmith knot bracelet (silver) (no longer available)

My Thinking Chair: Myrrine noir collection (floral) (SL Marketplace)

TED Talks About DNA

Dear Diary:

I've been trying to check off Strawberry Singh's New Year's Resolution list gradually. Well, time IS running out before a new New Year's Resolution comes around so in the next few weeks I'll be trying to whittle the contents down.

One of the challenges was to watch TED talks on any topic of your choice.  What are TED talks?  It has been described as "a nonprofit devoted to spreading ideas, usually in the form of short powerful talks (18 minutes or less).  TED began in 1984 as a conference where Technology, Entertainment and Design converged, and today covers all topics - from science to business to global issues - in more than 100 languages." (ted.com)  So I checked out the list of subjects and chose the science group.

The first talk I picked was on DNA.

I find this aspect of genetics very interesting.  I've had my DNA tested by a reliable lab and had no surprises when they told me the results.  This talk was informative, as the speaker, Sebastian Kraves, claimed that in the future, most homes will support a DNA testing station.  Fascinating!

I also watched a second program, "You Have No Idea Where Camels Came From" that was also extremely interesting.  Who would have though to look for camels in the Arctic?

It was not only an entertaining evening but I learned a lot too.

Good Night for now.
I'm wearing:
Body: Maitreya Lara
Hair: Tiny Bird Sodom South Georgia (no longer available)
Pyjamas: digital girl design Sarah pj set (SL Marketplace)

Chair: Pop Art Kari chair (no longer available)
Rug: Cream Swirls
Television: Shared Media Preloaded TV (no longer available)