Is It Too Late (to say I'm sorry?) - [SWANK]: Purple Moon and {AnaMarkova}

It's that LOVE holiday. Expectation seems to loom large. Urgent rush to the Hallmark card section, the florist, even the jewelry store. (He went to Jared's) We're inundated with a message that love comes in a box and when packaged prettily, anything can happen. 

Justin Bieber has not one but two songs at the top of the US pop chart. In both songs, he's talking to women, or a girl in particular. He muses in his music, "Is it too late..." and he wants the girl, whoever she is, to give him a second chance.

I'm not a strong supporter of marketing ploy based holidays. I just don't think a calendar needs to tell me when to share my love or celebrate my sense of patriotism. I don't even care for religious holidays that mean to remind me of my faith. So stating that, I'm still aware of the overwhelming need to experience life with all the bells and whistles, to feel loved, not alone, and to be special to someone.

I hope that whoever enters my life and yours finds a human soul willing, even eager, to allow for love and all its beauty and all its wonder. I also hope that you and I have the ability to forgive, to give second chances, and to know that it's really never too late to say I'm sorry. A feeling evokes powerful energy. My heart's desire leans ever towards positive powerful energy to be shared effusively with everyone. If a holiday like Valentine's day helps to encourage that powerful exchange of positive energy, so be it. Embrace it. Give yourself and others a second chance, or a hundredth. It doesn't need to be too late.

50 Shades Of Red at [SWANK] might inspire you to look and feel your most positive self as you enjoy your Valentine. The Jade Leather Dress, in Pure tone, by {AnaMarkova} and the Cameron Hat by Purple Moon are just two examples of items you can find at this monthly event. Amazingly, over 80 designers created hundreds of things, and with those numbers, you know you can find something to inspire a beautiful holiday.

Featuring NEW February Items From [SWANK]
Theme: 50 Shades of Red
http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Manatoba/188/11/2001
Purple Moon Cameron Hat
{AnaMarkova}Jade Leather Dress Pure

Truth Hair Paige
Chop Zuey The Razor's Edge Bracelet
Chop Zuey Glorianna Earrings
October's 4Seasons Guiselle Lily Skin Package from the Makeover Room February
Image Essentials Studios and Pose Stores Background Studios

All About the Contestants -- Sabra Style and Analog Dog

This afternoon was all about the contestants for the first Miss SL competition so I chose something deliberately casual, something I could imagine me wearing as I took photographs of famous people at a gathering in reality.

I thought I'd run into Kylie Sabra this afternoon during the auditions because of her closeness to those involved in the Miss SL Organization so I chose some of her items deliberately to whisper thanks in my own quiet way... (and she was there!)... Two photos show the completed look I wore to the event.

* Sabra Style Collette Sweater Gold
* Sabra Style Slacks Mocha Plaid
* Sabra Style Tawney in Red & Black Blouse
* Analog Dog Tootsie

- Hawker's House OhmEga Ladies Mesh Caterpillar Boots Nugget
- Purple Moon Delight Wood Bangles
- Gaeline Mesh Lashes Divina
- October's 4Seasons Soulful Yellow Eyeshadow
- October's 4Seasons Destiny Sunset Lips

Standard Items:
-- October's 4Seasons Chocolate Cosmos
-- SLink Hands and Feet
-- KMADD Mesh Eyes

With Silent Confidence I Prowl -- Featuring Artizana from Designer Showcase and October's 4Seasons

I always know when a design comes from Artizana. The designer has a specific point of view and remains consistent, from piece to piece, since I began to blog her items. I've seen a few in various special events around the grid and often find items at Designer Showcase from there as well.

This is another of those instances. The choices Artizana added to this cycle offer a range that even includes an outfit for the guys, which is awesome because I know that menswear might be much more difficult to find.

This outfit Koutiala (Savannah) has a tribal vibe with earth tones that I thought melded well with the new release of the skin tone Mocha for the Angelina face that's just about to come out at October's 4Seasons. This sneak peeks shows how beautiful this darker skin tone really is, and I chose the natural skin, no makeup added, because I knew I'd use the face wrap, and because I believe this Angelina face continues to be the absolute best yet 'face' line at 4Seasons.

With no makeup, the eyes have a passion that speaks confidence silently and if you choose to wear the skin options that do have makeup, that passion remains, with a flair. (I thought the set of poses called 'Confidence' from Image Essentials Props and Poses were apropos for this pair of photos!)

Featuring Artizana Koutiala (Savanna) Sari from Designer Showcase

Featuring October's 4Seasons Mocha Skin Tone (Angelina)

1. Image Essentials Props and Poses Confidence Set

2. ~White Noise~ Shades of Night Face Mask

3. ::: Bangles Liberty Natural Love

4. Chop Zuey Crux Invictus

-- Hana-Shobu Belly Ring

5. .:JUMO:. Persepolis Sequin Sandals

6. Purple Moon Animal Print Nails Gold

7. EMO-tions Love

8. KMADD/Moda Mesh Eyes

9. Gaeline Mysteria Lashes

Stay Classy and Visit -- Featuring Purple Moon at Rock Your Rack, .:JUMO:. at 24 Squared, [LG] Boutique at Designer Showcase, Truth and !Lyrical B!zarre Templates

*One of my longer blogs, but so much to share, so many places to go...

One of those Mondays comes along now and then where you really do wake up and look outside and wish it were raining so you could easily slip back under the covers and sleep a little longer, listening to the sound of soulful droplets on the roof. It wasn't raining today but I still took my Monday really slowly, not actually 'getting up' til it was mid-afternoon. I don't have a very reliable schedule, which is why blogging really works well for me!! and never know when I'll sleep or wake. I'm at peace with the world of modeling that I've chosen and love the chance to wake up at 3 p.m. or 4 a.m. and always have something new to share.

I styled this pants suit from PurpleMoon Creations and had to message the designer. It had been ages since I'd gotten anything from her store, as I work with what's shared, and events, and each event has a different compilation of designers. I remembered why she was one of the top designers on the grid when I put her pant suit on... it's impeccable. You can find the Adele suit in black at the Rock Your Rack charity event. I styled this then went to find a location for photos and decided to go to Purple Moon's main store. While I was working, there was a gifty machine sharing items, one of which you see in my hands. What a treat. The Raspberry Clutch was one of those unexpected extras!

.:JUMO:. has an unfathomable amount of content out at different events right now, and for 24 Squared, the necklace seen in this set of photos shows one of those many pieces. It's called Believer Necklace, something that rings warmly of hope and good things. It's a little chunkier than many of the pieces I choose, but I thought it complimented the suit so well.

I love [Liv-Glam]. I'm still bamboozled to figure out how so much could possibly be created every week, week after week, for now over two years, I think. You can find pieces shared across the grid at different events, sometimes places that feature limited numbers, sometimes at charity events, sometimes at the discount shopping rooms. I found these color-change HUD heels in the goodies from Designer Showcase and fell in love. The heel has two options, that make it so versatile. On one setting, it's basically a great close toed heel for fall. The other setting adds a platform of shiny diamonds under the main shoe. It's a clever idea, offering both color change and accessory on/off. There's so much more for the money, and I love great deals!

My Substance hat from Lyrical B!zarre Templates adds a bit of flair and pulled the purple color from the heels and the soft colors around my eyes so well. The exploding flower into tiny little snippets of flower petals creates a sense of motion and adds depth to the overall look.

And last but never least, a new release from Truth, Freya, has a long french braid down the back. The hair is pulled gently away from the face. I think it softens the hard edges of an all black suit. I have been a fan of Truth since its first days as a business in SL. (Yes, I'm THAT old) It's a brand that morphs with time and all that comes with evolution of the program itself.

If you would like to donate directly to Rock Your Rack, you can visit any of the donation kiosks on the property or go to this website - https://www.stayclassy.org/fundraise?fcid=283425

Featuring Purple Moon at Rock Your Rack Adele Suit In Black Mesh

Featuring Purple Moon (main store insta-gift) Rasberry Clutch

Featuring .:JUMO:. from 24 Squared Believer Necklace

Featuring [LG]Boutique from Designer Showcase Deborah Diamond Heels

Featuring Truth Freya

Featuring !Lyrical B!zarre Templates Substance Hat

1. -{ZOZ}- Shimmer Basics Nails

2. Wicca's Wardrobe - Cool Bag Poses

3. Gaeline: Felicia

4. Face Paint: Blush Pink

5. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

6. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Alabaster Skin Tone

-- Kyxe Fierce Brown Brow

7. Moondance Boutique: Oscar Diamonds Earrings

8. SLink: Female Feet High

-- Elegant 1 Hands

9. Morphine: Juliana Eyeshadows

-- Kazumi Lips Blush Native

Take a Bite -- Featuring Purple Moon from The Month of Games; Also Featuring *Rag Dollz*

Purple Moon created this pretty little pink dress with a peplum waist for one of the three exclusives at The Month of Games. Today is the last day and I wanted to show you a little bit more, while there's still time to shop!

I've also got on a new release from *Rag Dollz*, the cape that somehow made the essence of this photo feel more like a fantasy world. I really adored the cute little hat, so in a moment of playfulness, I resized it to a full body piece, and made it so that my head was the cherry on top of the cupcake. Just bite gently, please. I like teeth!

Featuring from Purple Moon at The Month of Games Lolli Outfit In Pink - Candyland Inspired

Featuring *Rag Dollz* Noble Cloak Of the Summer

1. Truth: Harriet

2. Gaeline: Starlia

3. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

4. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Lily Skin Tone (Hannah)

-- Glamour Ombre Apple Lips

5. SLink: High Feet

-- Elegant 1 Hands

6. Bliensen+MaiTai: Bolero Heels

7. Paper Couture: Felin Earrings

8. Body Talk Poses

Running Too Fast To Catch Up -- Featuring Purple Moon, Hawker's House, KMADD/Moda and AIDORU

I'm running too fast to catch up... Yes, I know that doesn't make sense, but sometimes, the things that don't make sense are the things that explain life the best way possible. I did go and get my Pink Shirt Day top prior to the 26th. I wholeheartedly celebrate anything that promotes positive action and positive thought and any cause. If there were 365 special days set aside to help promote awareness that there is a problem and violence is at the core, I'd support. The pink shirt day promotes Anti-Bullying. I remember being teased at school as a young teen, and never quite feeling like I fit in, but when I reflect back on it and then read things that are happening to young people today, I realize I had a very mild dose of what happens out there today.

Some of you may not know this, but for 11 years, I was a Youth Pastor, and worked with young girls primarily ages 11-18. I miss that more than words can say, and it's interesting to me that some of the girls I first worked with are now young mothers, college graduates, people making a difference in their own world, and when I met them, they seemed fragile, so young, so vulnerable. I have a personal faith background but I took an unusual approach to Youth Ministry, and probably to ministry itself. I don't need to indoctrinate anyone. At first this was a point of contention at the first church that hired me. They were steeped in tradition and old ways. I simply felt like the only message the teens I worked with needed to hear was that they were loved. The very core of my faith comes from love and hopefully pours that love out to others. To complicate it, which I think many religions do, there are doctrines and denominations and cultures and traditions and so much more. I put that aside and focused on the child, because despite them feeling so grown up, they were children, and the child's basic need to feel loved.

Children AND adults need love, need that love affirmed, and need it affirmed often. The rest is just details. To me... anyway. And children who are bullied are often the ones who feel unworthy of love. That's a travesty to me, and something we can overcome, one person at a time. Bullying occurs at many ages and stages, can accompany cultural bias, hate crimes, and other violent acts, where one group thinks they have all the answers and have the right to tell those who are not like them that they are bad, stupid, and words I would not retype/resay but words that hurt deeply and leave scars.

I find little things like the Pink Shirt campaign works, one step at a time, one person at a time, and as more and more people join together, more good will come of it and change will occur. Each one love one.

Great new SLink nails from Kyxe Skins & Shapes!

Purple Moon

KMADD/Moda

Kyxe Skins & Shapes

AIDORU

Hawker's House

What Does the Fox Say?! -- Featuring Dot-Be Fashion, MADesigns, and from J&A Expo Goth1c0 and Wild Oats

This week, we watch the finale for Dancing With the Stars and they did a live version of a dance they'd created earlier in the season. (I watch it on demand so the actual finale happened a couple of weeks ago.) Ylvis came to sing in person, and we saw how close to the original song and video the dancers here got.

I still did not know how wildly crazy the world was for this song. "What Does the Fox Say?" It has a catchy tune that repeats the question over and over like a children's story might. Internet sensation creates a whole array of Andy Warhol-like 15 minutes of fame. This song fits that exponentially.

After over 275 million views, the duo was approached by a children's publishing label to print a book. I guess they saw a children's book in the tune too. It was released just recently on December 10. I'm sure sales for that will go crazy and with the holidays and popularity of the song, there's no way the book can fail.

I guess the duo who made up this little diddy had no idea what they had created until they were in the midst of it. They had been relatively small time comics who hosted a regular small town type radio show. The song released prior to their fall season ended up taking two small town boys from Norway into the massive sphere of international fame. You never know, huh?

And I still don't know what a fox says... Live! Laugh! Love!

Featuring Dot-Be Fashion Blazer Shirt

Featuring MADesigns

- Stevie Jeans - Autumn

- Hair - Lance

- Eyes - Attention - Black and White

- Eyelashes - Perfection

- Tattoo - Nightlife

Also from J&A Expo

Featuring Goth1c0 Noah Armbands

Featuring Wild Oats Zoomer Galaxy Dreams Platform

1. Face Paint: Gem Eyes

2. Sexy Mama Valentine Nails

3. Kyxe Skins & Shapes - Blossom

4. Purple Moon: With Love Earrings in Cherry

5. [Mirror's Enigma]: Azuka Butterfly

6. Wicca's Wardrobe Poses

Sometimes Things Just Fall Into Place -- Featuring Hairoin, {{BSD Design Studio}} and A.F.I Designs

Life has this pace that's a little like a heart beat. It pauses, it beats, it pauses, it beats. No matter how fast it's going, it still pauses and then it still beats. Once upon a time, I was active duty Navy. Some of my health issues are a direct result of service during Desert Storm and injury that medically retired me. During my experiences in the Navy, I learned all sorts of cadences. They kept us all in step, so that as we moved, we moved as one unit, one machine, one heart beating.

In the midst of chaos in the world around me, I lose track. I lose focus. A pause, however, often is all it takes to remind me of the basic beat, and most of the time, even if I'm in the wildest tempest, things will just fall into place if I remember life's cadence; it pauses, it beats, it pauses, it beats.

As much as I love dance in Second Life, you'd be amused to know that 90% of the time I'm 'dancing' in Second Life, I have no sound on, so I have no music. It's not so much the dancing then that attracts me to this activity. It must be something else. I'm not particularly sexually charged when I traverse Second Life. Too many other things interest me. Those times I really do want to feel that close to someone, I dance. It's another cadence, another way we measure life's beat.

I have to chuckle though, that I really don't need the music to enjoy the dance. It's more about the person, the intimacy of a special IM, and the gathering of people. Lately, I've been extra blessed to be invited to several new clubs, new places people hang together, and I've noticed that each of these places also have their own pulse. No two clubs are the same any more than two agencies or colleges or kings are the same. Each defines their world, and creates the pace it will be lived.

I fell in love with the designs by A.F.I Designs because of the colors. They're bright and busy but they make sense too. The insane yet wonderful hair from Hairoin seemed like it was made to accompany this dress. They are both unique. It's often said that a true artist marches to his or her own beat. These designers do. And then there are heels that come from {{BSD Design Studios}} that add pizzazz. When someone can make their own mesh, they have the sky as their limit and creativity abounds.

I really appreciate the designers for whom I blog. I have randomly blogged for strangers. I join events like 24 Event or the Bunny Hunt and end up exposed to all sorts of things. Ultimately, sometimes things just fall into place. A little dash of this and a pinch of that, stirred together, the right lighting, the positive spirit and a special cadence that's all your own, and you have looks like no one else. We create our own beat with the elements around us at any given time, and then we march.

Featuring A.F.I Designs Mezzanine Outfit
Features Hairoin Leviathan
Features {{BSD Design Studio}} Modern Muse Raw Metallic
Features [I][I][M] Studs Bracelet
1. IKON: Sunrise Eyes Steel Blue Pale
2. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Starlia
3. Face Paint: Square Prim Nails
4. Face Paint: Leonore
5. [Mirror's Enigma]: Vanity Tan Skintone
8. Purple Moon: Concentric Earrings in Silver & Onyx
9. Chop Zuey: Hana Shobu Bellyring

Did You Ever See a Lassie... -- Featuring Evolve, Finesmith, and Face Paint

Every day, or at least most days, I work hard to put together at least one new look styled, and take a series of photos. I learn something new about photography, or a new designer, or something comes along and helps me with what I do.

It's a little like being a star. You never know what you're going to be wearing and sometimes, it doesn't even look quite like you. I have enjoyed trying out new skins this week from several new designers as well as clothing from a designer whom I've blogged before, but not their clothing!

In this set of photos, I've got a gown on from Finesmith as well as Finesmith jewelry. I've also got on Kyxe's Laura Shape and Laura Skin by Kyxe Angel. I got the chance to show you this skin as a result of good friendships and word of mouth, what a privilege. Playing a role, being something lovely in hopes of helping introduce new designers like Kyxe Angel or support designers like yula Finesmith who've been around Second Life a long time.

Besides working for some of the designers I've met, I also hear advice from them on many topics, almost always on the subject of fashion. This week, Ms. Reign who owns Evolve, suggested I try Deeses Skins to wear when I work in her store. I went to Deeses and tried on every skin they have as she had asked me to to. I joined the group and then found there was a free skin as a part of that group membership. I put it on, and really liked it.

When I change shapes and skins for different designers, I don't mind. My brand is Caryn, yes. I'm marketing myself as well as helping support an array of creative people. Ultimately, my brand is what's inside my head and heart. To me, my greatest responsibility to my name is to keep my commitments, to tell you and everyone else I speak to at any time (not just when I'm at work) the truth.

If I'm true to me, regardless what the avi looks like, I hope I've earned enough trust and respect that encourages those who know me to enjoy what I present. If I don't care for something or someone, I take care of conflicts privately. If I don't have something kind or thoughtful to say, I just won't say it. I care about what I do. I want to make Face Paint, and all the other companies who've let me represent them in some way, shine as brightly as possible. When I do so, the woman behind the pretty pixels gets to shine too.

Featuring Evolve Garden Affair
Featuring Deeses Skins Loreen
Featuring IKON Sunrise eyes: Steel Blue Pale
1. Wasabi Pills: Lory
2. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Fantasia
3. Purple Moon: Tears Me Not Set
4. Face Paint: Desire
5. Miamai Poses

Featuring Kyxe Laura Copper Skin and Shape
Featuring Face Paint Cara Warm
Featuring Finesmith White and Black Gown
Featuring Finesmith Cen Necklace and Earrings
1. EMO-tions: Forever
2. Poetic Color: Rain Tree
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Divina
4. Poses in pose studio at The Creative Loft

Featuring Face Paint
1. IKON: Sunrise Steel Blue Pale
2. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Divina
3. Luziefee: Hat, Dress and Jewelry

Glad To Know Glam Dreams Remains! Featuring Glam Dreams

In March, one of the most exciting things I've done as a model occurred. I was permitted to walk in the Model's Workshop Spring Show.

   

 I got to wear designers that I had never known, House of Elliot and Glam Dreams, and a familiar Snowpaws. Being introduced to Glam Dreams was a dream. Everything shown in that show was elegant and sexy. I oohed and ahhhed at the various looks friends got to wear and thrilled at the gown I was given.

    

 Now I find myself embracing the privilege of working with Glam Dreams once more, this time as a blogger. I saw notes go out early in the week two weeks ago that suggested Glam Dreams was closing its doors. I was disappointed!

    

Thankfully, I spoke to one of the store managers who is also a good friend and I learned that only the main location has closed and satellite stores still offer this same beautiful quality that I'd discovered in March. This Butterflies Gown reminds me of why I enjoyed Glam Dreams so much and how much I look forward to new looks as they are revealed.

Featuring Glam Dreams Butterflies Gown
1. Poetic Color: Oriental Pearl
2. Truth: Kami
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Starlia
4. Mirror's Enigma: Vanity
5. D.D.M. Designs: The Bold Collection
6. Felicity: Gianna Stilettos Slate Blue
7. Purple Moon: Spanish Lady Gown Belt
8. Face Paint: Perfect Lip & Liner
9. Manifeste Poses

Another One, Paying It Forward -- Featuring [[Masoom]] and Face Paint

I'm sure the movie with Helen Hunt and Kevin Spacey that introduced the idea of Pay It Forward to a Hollywood audience  was not the first time this idea had been explained or its origination. However, it was the first time I ever knew of the concept. Ever since I saw that movie, and if you haven't seen it, you might put it on your popcorn and rent it list, I have firmly believed in the basic concept. People all along my journey through life have given me something special of themselves at a moment I needed it most. Some happened so long ago, it would be nearly impossible to track them down.

I think the concept them of paying someone back could be faulty even with the best intentions, but paying it forward works every time. Whether it is something special someone did at a time when I could not do for myself or someone letting me live with them for a while when I needed to figure out my life's direction, I was not wise or mature or able to keep track of these things. Now as an adult who's spent more than forty years on our great planet, I see those things in my past and I really do wish I could contact some of those people. I have to hold on to the truth of paying it forward and know that if I touch someone's life now, maybe one day, they will pass it on...

I'd like to think most of my motives were balanced, so that I take care of self but I also take care of others now. When I know someone is in need, I do try to reach out and do whatever my strength and my body can handle. In our Second Life, we're presented many different opportunities to help strangers and SL-friends alike. The recent news of Squinternet Larnia sparked a wave of attention aimed in her direction, in hopes to encourage her, and the business she runs. [[Masoom]] created this elegant dress Lilith as a way to pay it forward, to encourage Squinternet and to help with the Love Donna Flora Event. I also reminisce every time I wear Face Paint and new releases from Eve Express because she poured her life into mine so that I could learn. Many people banding together to help one makes a world of difference, and for me, I'm glad to be a part of that world.

Featuring Face Paint Perfect Lip & Liner 1
Featuring [[Masoom]] Lilith (part of the contribution to the Love Donna Flora event)
1. Poetic Color: Autum Colors Storm
2. MADesigns HAIR: Demi
3. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Divinia
4. Noya: Golden Scuplted Nails
5. Noya: Chrystal (skin)
6. ::Purple Moon:: Cubics II Set dans la Chocolaterie
7. Taken on location at Image Essentials

Daydreamin... Featuring New Face Paint, Wasabi Pills, Zanze and New Designer Kyxe Skins

This week I had the great pleasure of meeting a friend of a friend, someone who's new to creating skins and obviously has mad skills! I hope to bring you examples of this new store's variety as time passes, but this peek at the store's Group Gift might make you want to drop by and visit.

I adore some of the most darling, tender-hearted and clever designers and have the privilege of wearing their art, and feeling like a walking showstopper.  What a treat it is to add to that group of special people too! 

Whether it's new hair curled around my shoulders just right or a baby doll print on a dress hanging just low enough to be decent on a Summer walk in the park or a perch on a perfect swing, lolling around half dreaming of all things warm and wonderful.

Featured Face Paint Moonlight
Featured Wasabi Pills Lory Mesh Hair Chocolate
Featured Kyxe Skin - Group Gift - Lucy Summer Skin
Featured Zanze Bethany Babydoll Mango
1. Poetic Colors: Hot Mocca
2. Candy Nail: Resort Sunset
3. Uzuri: Bibi Cuff
4. ::Purple Moon:: Swan Jeweled Brows Goth
5. N-Core: Caprice Champagne

6. Poses built into swing prop

My Final Final from Miss Virtual World Modeling Academy

What an insane and amazing experience this past year has been, beginning at Face Paint as a new face, eager and so unprepared for this modeling world til now, finally certified officially as a model. I began working in Face Paint approximately 1 year and 1 month ago. I landed in what can only be described as the perfect petri dish for someone who really wanted to become a Second Life model.

I registered for Miss Virtual World's Academy shortly after joining Face Paint but was quite unsure of myself. Seasoned models offered advice that I wasn't ready yet for MVW, and reluctantly I took their advice - something I'm so so glad I did now in retrospect - and enrolled in the classes for the matriculation in August. If you scroll through my history on this blog, you can see comments regarding this big step.

I went through 105 graduation at the end of August and really didn't think I'd graduate. I knew from peers that they really only allowed polished models to graduate and I was just beginning. As I expected, I did not graduate. I went back in November and again in February of 2013. Each time, I learned new things, observed, tried, failed, felt a thousand emotions and at one point after try #3, I was sure I should give up my modeling dream.

The instructors have been here all along, willing to meet between exam weekends, willing to review and help and encourage, and invested in my success. As long as I was driven to succeed, they were willing to help. For this, I am so grateful. I came to see an array of models who'd passed through MVA in the past as assistants and through the nine months, new people joined the group of educators.

Somewhere in the past month, I realized the difference between elegant and pretty, sweet and lovely, and the edgy difference of a model. There was never anything wrong with being that girl next door, or the PTA mom, or other things I'd heard to describe that new model. I never felt insulted; I never felt successful. This fourth 105 exam weekend brought to fruition these many months of work, trial and error, and hopefully sparked something wonderful yet to come.


MVW Academy 105 Day 1
Featured Mea Culpa Shoes Player
Featured Chop Zuey Tightrope Mens Bracelet
Featured Face Paint: Jane Glamour
Featured Mirror's Enigma Superbia Mini Dress
1. Custom Shape
2. Poetic Eyes: Quicksilver
3. [ChicZafari]: Rose Hair
4. Quintessencia: 17 Nails
5. Shear Tights by Caryn
6. Zanze: Joslyn Jacket
7. Avante Poses
8. Taken on site at Image Essentials


MVW Academy 105 Day 2
Featured *booN* CCV788 Chocolate
Featured Poetic Eyes Autumn Colors - Storm
1. Custom Shape
2. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Fantasia
3. Finesmith Nails: French Sky
4. Glam Affair: Amberly
5. Dot-Be: Shadra Lotus Skirt
6. VicE: Dangerous Liasons Top
7. Schadenfreude Noir Something Wicked
8. DADAbeiz: Black Half Ankle Boots
9. Chop Zuey: Black Ice Earrings
10. Chop Zuey: Nose Diamonds White Gold
11. Chop Zuey: The Hand of God Men's Necklace
12. :: Purple Moon :: Marlene Gown Gloves
13. Face Paint: Helios Smoke 
14. Lace Leggings by Caryn
15. Adorkable Poses
16. Taken on site at Image Essentials


MVW Academy Graduation 105 Outfit
Featured .:NV:. Birth of Diamond Mesh Corsett
Featured Amour Signature Ciara Zebra Mesh Boots
Featured J'adore Tu Tu
Featured MADesigns Hair Demi Black
1. Custom Shape
2. Poetic Eyes: Autumn Colors - Storm
3. Face Paint: Gem Eyes - Red
4. Candy Nail: Rosy Black
5. Glam Affair: Amberly
6. Lace Tattoo by Caryn
7. Jewelry by Jake: Valencia White Diamond/Pearl Collection
8. Manifeste Poses
9. Taken on site at Image Essentials

A Sinister Kid

Today, I got to see a new array of clothing by Dot-Be Fashion put on display by the wonderful team of models at Canary Models. Between MaryCarmen Hyandi and Euridice Qork, this show went off without a hitch and everyone and everything looked fantastic.

Instead of finding a location to shoot my next blog set of photos, I thought - why not wear Dot-Be Fashion to Boniefacio's show, and take a few photos while there. The room was filled with people from all over Second Life and many fashion houses.

Things couldn't have been better as each new look came across the runway and Dot-Be Fashion continues its growth and presence in the fashion community. I have a great deal of respect for the men and women who are a part of Canary Models, and though I have to get out my translator to communicate with them, every conversation I've joined has always left me feel warm and accepted, something that is priceless.


Featured Dot-Be Fashion Paola Black
1. Custom Shape
2. Mirror's Enigma Iona Tan Skintone
3. Poetic Eyes: Quicksilver
4. [ChicZafari]: Rose Hair
5. Face Paint: Sinister 1
6. [S H O C K]: Starshine Glitter Nails
7. ::Purple Moon:: Cubics II Set dans la Chocolaterie
8. R2: Azuli in Silver
9. Poses in Chair at Canary Model's Presents Dot-Be Fashion

Faith, Courage, Service True With Honor Over, Honor Over All.

Believe it or not, one of the first adult decisions I ever made was to join the Navy. The story has complicated twists and turns including an ultimatum that blew up in my face (I didn't say I was totally grown up then and I'm not sure I am yet!), my equivalent of running away to join the circus, and the whimsy of someone who doesn't yet know what she wanted or where she was headed.

I had one of those childhoods that maybe many of us could relate to, and one that still causes pain in reflection on that time. With that said, the concept of running away to join the circus appealed to me. Amusingly enough, sometimes the Navy seemed like a circus, but in retrospect, it was also one of the best things I've ever done, despite myself.

Strong willed people do not like ultimatums. I learned that during this particular point in my life. I decided that my first choice related to running away from home to a better life included a man I'd been dating almost a year, and a man who of course should have realized he should marry me. He had not broached the subject, and I grew impatient. I went to the recruiter and signed on the dotted line. I then called this wonderful man and talked all night with him, about how I would join the Navy if he didn't marry me, so he said, "Join the Navy." Gasp!

Despite my immature way of dealing with my situation at that juncture in my life, the man and I celebrate our 23 anniversary in May. He had patience and gave me time to grow up... and the Navy wasn't all that bad. When I saw this pose set at Image Essentials, 'Anchors Aweigh' began playing in my head, and memories of that strange and rash decision played along with it. It ended up being a good thing, as I said, despite myself. I find myself fortunate beyond words to this day.


Featured [[Masoom]] Nisse Dress from theevent
1. Custom Shape
2. Mirror's Enigma: Megumi Frost Pale Skintone
3. Poetic Eyes: Quicksilver
4. [ChicZafari]: Rose Hair
5. Face Paint: Sinister Style 3
6. Quintessencia: Nail WF Gift Model Square I
7. Shadow Moon: Party Diva Leather Black Boots
8. ::Purple Moon:: Tears Me Not Set
9. Morea Style: Jess Sweater Grey Tights
10. Props and Poses at Image Essentials

My Wild Irish Rose (Fashion for Life Day 6)

This has been the most incredible day and in the middle of all things wild and wonderful, my heart had one of those sadness moments. I use songs and lyrics for my blog titles and photo names now and when I researched Irish music, I noticed that many had a similar theme as my day has had.

Sometimes the little lows we have make us appreciate the highs even more. I was scared to death and excited at the same time during the highlight of my day. It was my very first fashion show rehearsal and I was like a doe caught in the headlights. Once I got over the fear... wait... haven't quite yet!

Maybe it gets a little easier over time or maybe it's like acting and every opening night brings on a massive round of nerves. I heard when I was part of the Thespians at school that nerves make us focus and attention to detail makes a difference between good and great. I have enough nerves to fill the Grand Canyon. I'm not quite sure if it makes me great yet, but I know I'm stepping closer to my dreams.

This week presents one of the best opportunities I know of online to support an amazing cause. I was watching Celebrity Apprentice, noting that the supposed aim of this show is to raise money and perhaps it does, but it also raises a lot of anxieties and ugliness. I think raising money for any just cause is also a cause for celebration, and certainly not for all that stress on TV.

I've wandered around the sims set up for the Fashion for Life event and run into so many different people from many lifestyles. In this moment, while we're shopping and supporting this charity, we're part of the same lifestyle for a few moments. I don't know why a good cause doesn't unify the competitive people on Apprentice. I'm glad it doesn't happen in our Second Life.


Featured Zanze Lacie Dress Buff at Fashion for Life
Featured Mirror's Enigma SuperbiaV2 Peach Skintone
Featured Mirror's Enigma Superbia Prim Lashes
Featured Mirror's Enigma Naturelle Gray Eyes
1. Custom Shape
2. Osmose: Argentina Platinum
3. Trendy Dolls: St. Patrick's Day
4. Purple Moon: Rosali Necklace
5. Baubles by Phe: Square Diamond Bangles
6. R2: Azuli Blue
7. Poses by Manifeste

Featured Baboom! Clover Gown Patrick's Day
Featured Face Paint Gidget Cotton Candy
1. Custom Shape
2. EMO-tions: Anna
3. Poetic Eyes: Autumn Moon
4. Gaeline: Mesh Lashes Starlia
5. Trendy Dolls: St. Patricks Day
6. Moonshadow: Gipsy Earrings
7. Poses by InPose

Delicious Decadence from Indyra Originals - Furs

This week, I had the privilege of playing with furs in many colors. First I tried creating a field of furs with hope of showcasing the diverse colors, but that didn't quite work as well as I wanted, and my overall goal any time I work with a designer's art is to make their creations look as amazing as possible and the star of the photograph.

When I went to a more traditional way of showing you the fur, I knew it was the better way to show you how amazing these furs really are. If you're more bold than I am, you might choose to wear the different furs without a slinky bit of lace under it. It does cover properly, even for a PG sim without the lace. The straps look like a shiny leather, and add just the right touch of color and pizzazz to make the furs 'pop.' As you can tell by the extensive list of colors below, there is a little something there for everyone. I loved the Noir/Red with the bright red skinny jeans but the combinations are endless and gorgeous. It feels positively decadent to be wrapped in such soft beauty.

Other colors: 
Blanc/Gold
Blanc/Noir
Blanc/Pink
Blanc/Silver
Bright Blue
Bright Pink
Bright Red
Bright Violet
Noir/Gold
Noir/Noir 
Noir/Red
Noir/Silver
Wild/Champagne
Wild/Cheetah
Wild/Leopard
Wild/Lynx


Featured Indyra Originals Republica Furs 
1. Custom Shape 
2. Glam Affair Skin: Jadis 
3. Poetic Eyes: Quicksilver 
4. EMO-tions: Yvonne 
5. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Fantasia 
6. Face Paint: Restless 5 + OMG 17 
7. Starshine Glitter Nails Red 
8. Artistry by ~E~: The Charlotte Set Collectors Edition 
9. Purple Moon: Skinny Jeans in Red 
10. h.m.a.e.m.: La regina del ghiacci 
11. Stella: Macy Stiletto Ankle Boots 
12. Miamai Abstract 10

*RnB* Designs and Demise in flight pose...

This amazing exclusive item,from *RnB* hit close to home. I think artistry runs in every vein I'm related to off line, and I've learn to really stop and appreciate modern art, even the pieces I don't quite understand.

Me in my self-portrait shows the purple from the cute little set of minis available from Demise in Flight in several colors. I found some great boots and leggins, a black undershirt and black poncho and I was ready to look like a painter even if my picture ended up looking like finger paints in first grade!

To find these and other great items, visit: Flawless Sim and 12 Days Event.


12 Days Featured *RnB* Designs Furniture Exclusive Painter's Set
12 Days Featured Demise of Flight - Leopard Mini 
1. Custom Shape 
2. Glam Affair Skin: Jadis 
3. Poetic Eyes: Quicksilverr 
4. Emotions: Cora 
5. Natural Beauty Lashes 
6. Face Paint: Tru 1 
7. Purple Moon: Animal Print Nails in Purple 
8. Faded Ink: Black Leggings 
9. Sugar & Cyanide: Lace Body Suit with Poncho Black 
10. Mind Games Fashion: Valentina Boots Purple 
11. Pure Poison Snowman Mesh Earrings 
12. AP Belle 2