Is It Just Pillow Talk - A Paradise Or a War Zone - [SWANK]: LIZIAAH and Luminesse

We don't have to go far to find our paradise or our war zone. And sometimes we find both in the same place with the same person. Do you ever notice how much more you argue, fuss and fight with the ones you love most? I do.

This month, [SWANK] brings the theme 50 Shades of Red. To me, that's like the fifty shades of passion I feel when I'm with my very best... friend, lover, bestie... passion comes in so many shades.

The metallic mesh corset from LIZIAAH made me think 'armor', the fantasy armor that does no more to protect us than the armor we try to wrap round our heart when we're in the middle of those passionate moments. Is it a paradise or a war zone? Either way, it's always going to be intense. Because it matters. We don't fight with strangers so much because we just don't care. Teardrop like earrings in a rose hue dangle from my ears, Luminesse Linza set comes with earrings and matching necklace, like those drops of moisture that seethe from my eyes when it matters.

Featuring NEW February Items From [SWANK]

Theme: 50 Shades Of Red

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Manatoba/188/11/2001

LIZIAAH Mesh Corset Gold

Luminesse Linza Rosa White Gold Earrings (Necklace and Earrings included in the Linza set)

Image Essentials Poses

no. 7 Circles Mask

Gaeline Mesh Lashes Fantasia

KMADD Hair Fadima

KMADD Mesh Eyes

October's 4Seasons Guiselle Lily from the Makeover Room Event February

h.m.a.e.m. Take Me Back Collar

Wicca's Wardrobe Lavina Leggings

Zayn Malik - Pillow Talk:

Upon My Return -- Featuring !Lybra, h.m.a.e.m., Morphine; American Outfitters at The Promenade; and [[Modern Couture]] at The Instruments

It's always a little odd to have to be away a while, then return to this shared virtual world and virtual life that criss crosses so many peoples' worlds it astounds me. My world gets very very small indeed when I get to a point where I turtle into my shell and invest more energy into making it through a day than anything else. When I finally peek out of that shell, it's unusual because I often feel like sooo much time has passed, and it's only been a few days, and because in some cases, even those few days make and break people, and some names I will never see again.

I have the true blessing to know so many of you via different forms of art and artistic discussion, the same passions, the same energy and drive. Lybra recently went from being a well known high end designer to an off the charts oh my goodness WOW designer. I think there are several reasons for this, but ultimately, it's a good team, people at each level working together to accomplish a really great result. The gown I have on called Isamu, recently released, shows exactly my point. It's hot, yet elegant, culturally relevant yet unique. I love it.

When I saw the [[Modern Couture]] jewelry set from The Instruments this month, I was thinking, "What an awesome look for that gown I want to blog." So you have it to accessorize. American Beagle Outfitters created the wire cuff on one wrist for the Promenade, Morphine made the heels, and h.m.a.e.m. created the necklace. All of it adorns the perfectly tinted selection of skin tones found at October's 4Seasons like this Blossom Skin Tone with dark brows.

Featuring [[Modern Couture]] Jewelry Silver from The Instruments

Featuring American Beagle Outfitters Wire Cuff Bracelet The Promenade

Featuring !Lybra Isamu 

Featuring h.m.a.e.m. Irie Necklace Silver

Featuring Morphine Color Change Heels

1. Morphine: Juliana Eye Shadow

-- Juliana Lips Color

2. SLink: Female Feet High

-- Elegant 1 Hands

3. October's 4Seasons: Black Brows Blossom Skin Tone (Laila)

4. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

5. Gaeline: Mysteria

6. EMO-tions: Maresol

7. Manifest Poses

8. KaTink Backgrounds

Things That Go Bump In the Night -- Featuring -{ZOZ}-, Kastle Rock from Designer Showcase, AJ Designs from The Promenade, Syrenz, h.m.a.e.m. and ~ghee

My first pair of photos today show an array of all new items, some from special events, and others from events recently over but items I still haven't shown, and more.

-{ZOZ}- happily (to me) appears everywhere I turn and for this month's Instruments, they have a suitably scary set of nails - Ghost Girl. Boooooo.... Kastle Rock's Fabiana Dress comes from Designer Showcase, and though it's a spaghetti strap style, the colors are all autumnal and perfect for this time of year. The Kathleen heels from AJ Designs may be purchased at The Promenade.

Other items new to my blog include Syrenze red bracelets, h.m.a.e.m. unique hat and a new color of tights from ~ghee. When I put them all together like a puzzle, I had a great time. I hope you do also, and find a way to shop til you get every last detail that appeals to you.

Featuring -{ZOZ}- Ghost Girl Nails from The Instruments

Featuring Kastle Rock Fabiana Dress from Designer Showcase

Featuring AJ Designs Kathleen Heels from the Promenade

Featuring Syrenz Red Bracelets

Featuring h.m.a.e.m. The Nini Hat Zerozeroone

Featuring ~ghee Saffron Tights

1. Calico: Phoebe

2. Gaeline: Fantasia

3. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

4. October's 4Seasons: Walnut Skin Tone

-- Exotic Onyx Liner

5. SLink: Female Feet Mid

-- Elegant 1 Hands

6. .:JUMO:. Armorial Coffee Lips

7. Dulce Secrets Boudoir Tainted Eyeshadow

8. ::MS:: Poses

A Viking Valkyrie - Featuring h.m.a.e.m., >Asset<, .: LIKE DESIGN :., and M. Mayako; Also Featuring Xen's Hat from Rock Your Rack

This morning, I'm glad to show a few more items from the 24 Squared event that begins tomorrow (September 5), and more from Rock Your Rack, which has another week to go. Please remember that items from Rock Your Rack purchased will go to support an awesome cause, funding Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Please visit to enjoy the terrific designs created for this event and to participate in the charity fundraiser. If you prefer to donate directly, visit this website: https://www.stayclassy.org/fundraise?fcid=283425

Xen's Hat - the Green Beret - made me think saucy and sweet. It's easy to imagine being mischievous.  h.m.a.e.m. continues to create brilliant new shapes with a sense of joie de vivre. The mini dress Tasha has a sleek figure form, but then it plays with geometrical lines and shapes. Each of them are a solid color, yet because of the overall design, the dress itself stands out within an endless stream of basic minis. You can find this dress at 24 Squared.

Also from 24 Squared, a Viking styled Valkyrie hair from >Asset< will catch your eye. I styled it in the true Viking Rus (red) style to go with Kyxe Skins & Shapes Marigold version of Laila. Additionally, .: LIKE DESIGN :. created a new ankle boot that sports a metallic shine on the primary color, then accents with bold gold; you can find these boots at 24 Squared. M.Mayako also has a few items to tempt you, and from the outfit called Marinahh, I pulled earrings and bangles to complete the look.

Featuring Xen's Hats from Rock Your Rack Green Beret

Featuring h.m.a.e.m. from 24 Squared Tasha

Featuring >Asset< from 24 Squared Valkyrie Hair

Featuring .: LIKE DESIGN :. FROM 24 Squared Exclusive Boots

Featuring M.Mayako Exclusive from 24 Squared Marinahh (Gold Bangles & Ring)

Featuring Kyxe Skins & Shapes Marigold Skin Tone Laila

1. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

2. [Eve n Better]: Cintia

3. Morphine: Freya Cat Eyeshadow Melon

-- Azuka Eyeshadow 10

4. SLink: Female Feet High

-- Elegant 1

5. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Glamour Lips Sunset

6. MG: Inverted Crown

7. Manifeste Poses

On Changing Your Mind - Featuring Poet's Heart from Rock Your Rack, .:JUMO:. and Baubles! by Phe at 24 Squared; Also >Asset< New

The gown from Poet's Heart comes in several styles has a beautiful tropical option that I've seen blogged in several wonderful ways, and it's the 100% donation for Rock Your Rack, a fundraiser where designers like Poet's Heart contribute items and the funds go to Breast Cancer Research Foundation. I chose a different color, and when I saw one called Frozen, I had to pick it.

I read an article today about the movie, the animated full length picture from Disney animators that became an international success, grossing higher than any other Disney film yet. Some of the success, I thought, was related to the sound track and particularly the one track, "Let It Go." When the musicians for this film submitted the song, it was like a bulb turning on in the midst of a frustrating course of weeks and attempts at early writing to go with the tag boards and screen writer's concept.

After everyone heard the song, the entire movie was rewritten. The whole thing! The character Elsa was redrawn. The screen play was rewritten. The artists tag boards were rearranged, and on and on... everything changed. I often think as humans, there's some pressure on our shoulders to stick with an idea once it's spoken, and changing of minds is a 'bad idea'. Go with your gut, they say. I don't think that we're necessarily waffling or unable to commit if we feel that urgent need to change our minds. Sometimes, sure... you should stick with exactly what you've said, you've committed, you've promised, but sometimes, I think we should 'let it go' and give up everything to change. If we do, we might find ourselves living box office lives.

Shoes from .:JUMO:. fit the gown's coloring exactly. There are two colors of the Mannequin Stilettos, and both are done with the speckles and gold. These shoes can be found at 24 Squared. Also seen in this styling is the set of jewelry from Baubles! by Phe called Garden State. The green polished stone and coppery metal worked well for me, but there are other color options and metals to add to the diverse use of the set.

>Asset< created another slicked back unisex style, Leppard. As I've watched some of my favorite reality shows like So You Think You Can Dance, I've noted that hair products are coming back in a big way. It's not quite the big hair of the 80's yet, but hair stays exactly as you put it with the right goop! At least in our second lives, the goop doesn't get all over everything or make such a mess! 

Please make time to visit the Rock Your Rack charity. If you choose not to buy items, you could donate directly to any of the kiosks at the event or you might visit this website to do so: https://www.stayclassy.org/fundraise?fcid=283425

Featuring Poet's Heart from Rock Your Rack Leaf Lady (Frozen) 1 of 7 colors, 100% donations from Tropic

-- PLUS - 6 Poses!

Featuring .:JUMO:. from 24 Squared Manhattan Heels Sequins

Featuring Baubles! by Phe from 24 Squared Garden State Set

Featuring >Asset< Leppard Hair

1. Silken Moon: Elmslight

2. Gaeline: Magnificia

3. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

4. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Orchid Skin Tone

-- Copper Metallic Lips

5. SLink: Elegant 1 Hands

-- Female Feet High

6. Morphine: Heather Indecisive Eyeshadow (Cyan)

7. h.m.a.e.m.: Salmace Bracelet Gold

Preparing, One Day At A Time - Featuring !Lyrical B!zarre Templates!, h.m.a.e.m., -{ZOZ}- and KMADD

It's still 11 days away but it seems that everything I see in Second Life now beckons the question, "Will I use this item in my MVW audition? If I do, how will I use it." I love the challenge this event presents to me and I know that I will give 100% of my very best Caryn. If it's meant to be her time, then I will rejoice. If it's meant to wait, I will wait and try again next time.

I'm finding a few designers this year who have truly created items that have spoken to me. Things from Lyrical B!zarre Templates can be classified in this category. I'd never have guessed how much I love SLink products, but nail appliers as well as super sex heels have grabbed my attention in 2014. My first jewelry I ever owned in Second Life looked bright enough that it would have blinded you. When I first discovered h.m.a.e.m., I wasn't quite sure what to do with the items the designer created. I knew, however, that if I could figure that out, I could improve as a model and stylist. I'm so grateful to riri for that chance. The lemon collar and cuffs in this ensemble come from h.m.a.e.m. and with the special Chen Gold Face makeup from blackLiquid, the colors seemed to meld together to create something awesome.

I have no idea what direction I'm taking with my style and presentation for MVW 2015 auditions. I just know that I have been exposed to the most fantastic designers for some time now, gotten to wear some of my favorite ever items, and blessed to showcase them here in Facebook, on my blog and on my Flickr. Now the trick is to take everything I've practiced her and reach for the stars.

Featuring from !Lyrical B!zarre Templates! at The Hunger Games Hierarchical Tribute

Featuring from h.m.a.e.m. Take Me Back Jewelry Set

Featuring from !Lyrical B!zarre Templates! Thorpe Headpiece

Featuring from -{ZOZ}- Hand Accessories Black Queen Hand Wrap

Featurnig from KMADD - Hairbase Empowered

1. -{ZOZ}- Heels from Hell

2. SLink: Elegant 1 Hands

- High Female Feet

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

4. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

5. blackLiquid: Chen Face

6. MG: Party Swallowtail Red/Black Lashes

7. Corpus Poses

8. KaTink Backgrounds

I Need a Hero -- Featuring Wicca's Wardrobe at Gypset; Moondance Boutique, Lindy Shoes and -{ZOZ}- at Designer Showcase, and h.m.a.e.m. at Trempe

I have the jacket from her Nancy Tux on, along with the handbag for the same outfit. These items have been available at Gypset, until the end of July, so hurry! You'll also note new items from h.m.a.e.m. - the Sultana Pants in pink, new items from August's Designer Showcase - Lindy Madlin Black Heels, -{ZOZ}- (omgossshhhh I love ZOZ!!) Basic Polish nails and Moondance Boutique beautiful necklace that has a gorgeous chain in front and also drapes elegantly in back. Since you can't see the back in these photos, I'll use the necklace another time this month to share.

--- Longer Note Follows -- Featuring Heroes and Wicca Merlin Specifically

 I celebrate heroes who have impacted my life in a variety of ways. I do this in an internet/virtual world sort of way and also in the world away from the net. These heroes have come along at times in my world where I really needed them, where they really exemplified quality and character, love and compassion, intelligence and direction. These heroes helped create the me that I am today and I know that because life is ever evolving, I haven't met the last hero who will influence my life yet, and I hope I don't for a very long time.

I know she doesn't have a FB name, but she probably has numerous friends and followers and supporters who do know her via this medium. I know she has more on her blog (I'll share her links below) and more in the world we share in Second Life because she's a dynamic model, educator, blogger and above all, friend. Today, I have on some of her items and every time I wear something from Wicca's Wardrobe, I try to think like a Wicca.

Wicca Merlin offers a perspective in modeling that changed the face of pretty in Second Life. She took her sense of self, sense of aesthetic, sense of style and then embodied it. I don't know if she's ever won awards for her amazing work. I do know that I've heard her speak several times and have taken classes where she was the educator. Every time I've been in her company, I've learned something new.

When I say I try to think like Wicca, there's a catch. The thing is, I think that Wicca asserts her will and desire to be different, to break the mold, to do what feels most like self, and though she respects the middle ground, the norm, the whatever many people might call modeling, she acknowledges, and then does what works for her. Thinking like Wicca then means to me... thinking like a me. I see influences all around me. I love a few bloggers and acknowledge their influence. I've had some amazing educators and friends who've helped. Ultimately though, I had to figure out Caryn. I think maybe Wicca might have been the most instrumental in my world related to that topic.

Even if you're new to Miss Virtual World Modeling Academy and you're taking your first class, 101 and you happen to get Ms. Wicca, who will apologize profusely for not speaking English well and then speak it brilliantly for the next hour or so, you will likely see and hear what I mean. Who is this off beat, wonderfully unusual person teaching this class? Am I in the right place? Just because she doesn't look like your canned version of model doesn't mean she's not a great model. I hope many people have a chance to know her, and in that, I hope they have also a chance to know self. If you see that she's speaking somewhere, you should go and listen. And now, because she wasn't already busy enough in SL fashion, she owns her own store and it's awesome too!

Featuring from Wicca's Wardrobe Gypset July Nancy Tux Jacket and Handbag

Featuring from Moondance Boutique at Designer Showcase Oscare Drape Necklace

Featuring from Lindy Shoes at Designer Showcase Madlin Black Heels

Featuring from -{ZOZ}- Shimmer Basics Polish (Hands and Feet)

Featuring from h.m.a.e.m. at Trempe Sultana Pants Pink

1. Poetic Color: Quicksilver

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

-- Pink Berries Matte Lips

-- Electra Barbie Eyeshadow

3. MG: Groomed Lashes

4. SLink: Mid-Feet Female

-- Hands Elegant 1

5. Hairoin: 10 Hour Hair

6. PoSeSiOn Poses

Down By the Sea -- Featuring .:W&W:. from The Month of Games and h.m.a.e.m. from L'accessories

I'm not sure what W&W stands for but it made me think of a sequence of events in the Breaking Bad series where one of the characters asks the lead character if he knows what the initials W.W. stand for there, and the guy says, "Walt Whitman maybe?" Knowing full well the whole time he's answering that it stands for someone else much closer to home.

I didn't know what W&W stood for either but I loved the quality of the outfit created for the Month of Games. Vanilla Latte offers you a complete outfit from head to toe and the pieces are so richly and well made, you could easily pull the pieces apart later and use them for other outfits. I've seen a whole array of corsets in our Second Life. This one has a few added details that make all the difference.

The Month of Games will last through the end of the month and I know that if you haven't visited yet, you're missing out on a treat. Lexie Jansma and her team at Siren Productions put together terrific events! They're TMoG sponsors and have fashion shows, games and other things happening that coincide with the event to make it that much more enjoyable.

Featuring .:W&W:. Vanilla Latte - Full Outfit from The Month of Games

Featuring h.m.a.e.m. The Sea Clutch from l'accessories

1. EMO-tions Windblown 6

2. Gaeline: Mesh Lashes Illusia

3. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

4. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Chocolat Skin Tone

-- Candy Eyeshadow Coffee

5. SLink: Elegant 1 Hands

6. Morphine: Kazumi Lips Blus

7. .Olive.: Rose Gold Earrings Set

8. Corpus Poses

Changes On the Wind -- Featuring h.m.a.e.m., KMADD/Moda, [AMARELO MANGA], GAALL, Summer Fashion Festival, Kandinsky, and Moondance Boutique

A new day, a big decision and I'm off like a rocket or a rabbit or something! I know it seems like a rash decision sometimes when someone tells me this thing or that they want to change, but then again I don't know how much time they invested in their decision TO change. My decision to refocus my blog has been a long time coming. When Eve Express closed Face Paint late in 2013, I thought it would be a good time to evoke other changes. Little did I know that life had bigger changes in store for me and what had always been an annoying kidney problem was something far bigger, and more fear inducing and life changing.

I've known my kidney issue for my whole life. We're not best friends or anything, but I get it. It's as much a part of me as my ears or my toes. Cancer was not part of the plan. When it pranced into my world late last year, I went through something else, something completely different. Good news cometh! The surgery was successful, and with hopeful optimism doctors have given me little increments of time to return and see them to be sure nothing new arises, but meanwhile, I have felt better than myself than a long long time. The energy I have had the past couple of weeks felt like jolts of Dr. Frankenstein's energy pumping through my veins.
With that new found zing, I knew I was ready to finally make those changes to my blog. I'm amazingly grateful for all the designers who contributed to my blog, clothing in exchange for me doing my very best as a marketing device. I believe sincerely a designer gets a great deal of exposure through use of blogs, bloggers and social media. I have decided to respond to the ever growing popularity of events, and submitting applications to blog those events. It gives me a chance to network in the fashion industry, meet new people every month or two, and wear and style clothing from every corner of the grid. And with the new found time, I'm going to get better with the artistic style and point of view of my photograph. I want my work to leave a big 'wow.'

One of the designers I have treasured working one on one with is riri, designer for h.m.a.e.m. I learned what the initials stood for after I'd blogged her a couple of times and I just had to grin. I like it when people take life not so seriously yet make fabulous things to wear. Jeanette comes from this month's Couturier's Docks, one of h.m.a.e.m. choices of color shown in the photo with other colors to choose from when you drop by the Docks. From Summer Fashion Festival, GAALL has an outfit, Terra, from which I pulled a bracelet and earrings. Kandinsky has quality items and is relatively new to me. I've enjoyed the pieces I've been able to use, in this case, the sunglasses and matching heels, plus a red lipstick. Passionate Hearts applier from Moondance Boutique decorated my hands and I pulled a golden belt from an [AMARELO MANGA] dress (Nicole). I had some poses from KMADD that I'd not yet shared and wanted you to see that they're not just great at a few things, KMADD/Moda is superb at many many things including poses!

Wow, I'm so grateful to each of these designers:

Featuring from KMADD/Moda Runway Poses

Featuring from Summer Fashion Festival Gaall Terra Bracelet and Earrings

Featuring from The Couturier's Dock h.m.a.e.m. Jeanette Top and Skirt

Featuring from Kandinsky Willow Straps Mary Janes and Sansa Red Lips and Sunglasses

Featuring from [AMARELO MANGA] Nicole Dress (belt only)

Featuring from Moondance Boutique Passionate Hearts Nail Appliers

1. SLink: Elegant 1 Hands

-- High Feet Female

2. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Marigold Skin Tone

3. *~Damesfly*~ Kippar Rigged

Aging Gracefully -- Featuring from Fashion For Life: EMO-tions, *+Crie Style+*, ASC, **Feel** and New From h.m.a.e.m.

I find myself using silver and snow hair lately a lot more than when I first began blogging. The longer I invest in this, the more of me I seem to pour into it. This series of photos shows a really apt version of Karyn c. 2000. Granted, it's 14 years ago. And I no longer coach soccer, ref soccer matches and in general stay fit. That world was another time and place.

I don't mind so much that life evolves, all round us and within us at the same time. I don't mind that I age, or change size, shape, skin tone and everything else that comes with age. My voice still sounds like I'm about 15, but the rest of me looks my age and then some. Some ladies are delicate about age. "You never ask a woman how old she is." Sage advice from bygone days.

But why? I've never quite understood the logic behind anyone not wanting to reveal age. With age comes experience, wisdom, or at least the ability to say, "Oh, yeah that stupid thing you just did... been there, done that. You'll be alright." Men are allowed to age, but women? Society has too many double standards for gender based opinion for me to mention them all. This is but one.

I sit here, and I think about me, and my wisdom (and stupidity) and the things I've done and seen and loved. I think about the people that I didn't know 14 years ago when I looked like this, and the years since where new friends surfaced and life evolved. I am glad I'm here, doing this thing, in my now. I don't wish for yesteryear or long for a future I'm not sure will come.

A whole plethora of items from Fashion For Life are shown in my photos. EMO-tions (beautiful silver and black fade!), ASC, **Feel**, *+Crie Style+*. Besides the items from Fashion For Life, I've used the dress res gestae from h.m.a.e.m. If you want to donate directly to Fashion For Life: Relay for Life -- http://www.relayforlife.org/getinvolved/donate/

Thank you to each designer who helped make this blog possible:

Featuring from Fashion For Life ASC La Fringe Boots in Jett

Featuring from Fashion For Life **Feel** Cross Triple Ring Silver/Blue

Featuring from Fashion For Life **Feel** Pearl and Wire Jewelry Set

Featuring from Fashion For Life *+Crie Style+* Cantabile 6th Anniversary

Featuring from Fashion For Life EMO-tions Josie

Featuring from h.m.a.e.m. Res Gestae White and Black

1. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Lily Skin Tone Hannah Natural Face

2. Candy Nail: Twist Chiyogami Gold

3. Maxi Gossamer: Wild Full Thick Lashes

4. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

New News! Featuring from FASHIONART Faire AIDORU and Moda, Also [Liv-Glam], h.m.a.e.m., and KMADD

A wide array of new items were put together to create this look. MODA Designs, the Ethnic Dress, and AIDORU, the Elite Pumps, both have items seen here at the FASHIONART Faire.

Additionally, there's a new pair of earrings from AIDORU, aptly named Pirates Earrings.

KMADD continues to amaze me with the fantastic array of colors and options for their Mesh eyes and the hair shared here and hairbase as well also came from Maddox DuPont's KMADD.

h.m.a.e.m. shared circles circles circles, the shape represented on the necklace and then repeated by me. [Liv-Glam] has this great Delilah bag that's on a HUD with color change options.

Featuring Moda Ethnic Dress Orange from FASHIONART Faire by Glamourist

Featuring AIDORU Elite Pumps from FASHIONART Faire by Glamourist

Featuring AIDORU Pirates Earrings

Featuring h.m.a.e.m. Irie Necklace

Featuring [Liv-Glam] Delilah Bag

Featuring KMADD Hairbase Equal

Featuring KMADD Hair Mia

1. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

2. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Mocha Skin Tone

3. SLink: Hands Elegant 1

4. Poses in AO from Liv-Glam's Delilah Bag

Work It -- Featuring Dot-Be Fashion from Dance Island, h.m.a.e.m., E C R U from Designer Showcase, cae b from FASHIONART Faire, >Asset< and Moondance Boutique

Pulling items together from special sales, events and finding a few new releases led to this latest style. From head to toe, there are new items just waiting for you to discover them.

Hair from >Asset< called Vikings will appeal to both genders. The sunglasses that are exclusively found at Dot-be fashion's Dance Island location are also unisex by design.

cae b. has an array of items available for sale at FASHIONART Faire including the bangles I used here while the boots from E C R U are available at the Designer Showcase.

h.m.a.e.m. created the dressy simple yet chic mini and though the neckpiece looks like a brooch, it's a necklace with earrings set you can find at Moondance Boutique.

With gratitude expressed to each designer who made this blog possible:

Featuring Dot-Be Dance Island Exclusive Sunglasses

Featuring h.m.a.e.m. Polette Black and Fuschia

Featuring E C R U Blush Boots from Designer Showcase May

Featuring cae b. Stockhold Bangles

Featuring >Asset< Viking (Tinted a color not in the HUD)

Featuring Moondance Boutique Jewish Love Bird Desir Edition

1. MG: Groomed Lashes

2. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

3. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Blossom Skin Tone

4. Candy Nail: Marble Strawberry

5. PosESioN: Piero Set

A Little Faith -- Featuring Kyxe Skins & Shapes, Image Essentials, Hawker's House, !Lyrical B!zarre, Silken Moon, Moondance Boutique and h.m.a.e.m.

I've been thinking a lot about religion, and the religions of our wide world, and faith and how the two are often used interchangeably yet to me, they're completely different things. Religion connotes organized, institutionalized agreement based on history, theology, a story or past, and clear and concise doctrine. Faith on the other hand makes me think of far more personal choices, an intimate understanding or attempt at understanding the world around us, and once we arrive at that personal understanding, we know what we believe and what we do not believe. Religions of all sorts all through the age of man have fought wars, created and destroyed empires, and empowered some of the most unusual characters. While I enjoy the history of religion, and exploring the many pasts and reasons for each and their existence, I find faith a far more important tool, and something that makes it easier for me to interact with anyone and everyone, regardless of their religious background. Faith frees me to be me, buffers me in a world that can be ruthless and reckless, a world that can be harsh and hindering, and supports me in the most difficult of times.

Because I find faith so personal and also so important and freedom enhancing, I can understand family, friends and strangers all on a level that remains open minded. I believe that religion in some cases, teaches a separatist attitude, a sense of knowing THE answer, and is likely one of many reasons why religion may be at the center of conflict. If I recognize that faith operates at a personal level, that means I can see another and appreciate their personal and intimate beliefs. I hear their hearts in their voice and action and find it a thread of community that binds us together instead of tearing us apart.

Dealing with stressful situations might either make someone more aware of their faith and beliefs and how it might help enhance an individual's ability to cope with stress and pain, or create a wall that blocks out the belief system one may have had all their 'easier' life prior to the stressful moment, and cripple the ability to cope. I encourage people to find their own personal belief system, based on internal analysis, personal exploration and determined assertive awareness that faith enriches life and may be one attribute in a human that separates us from the world of animals around us. I cling to faith as I live this crazy life. I also find peace, love and joy in others' as they share warmth, life and health, and realize that their personal religion doesn't impact my world nearly as much as their personal expression of faith, and through their faith, they make living my crazy life just a little easier.

I jested earlier today that you'd all have to deal with a lady who's just a little more ditzy than usual, a little out of sorts, a little anxious, but even in my jesting, I was also expressing truth, and so many of you responded in personal contact, public contact, offering the very best from your heart and soul to help. And I just wanted you to know, it does help. I put together my outfit tonight, deliberately using as many items from different designers to make it a collaborative style. It was one small way I could acknowledge how many different people have invested in my world as I've tried to do the same and invest in theirs. You'll find new items from Kyxe Skins & Shapes, Image Essentials Props and Poses, Lyrical B!zarre Templates, Hawker's House Clothing, Malicia Python - Silken Moon, Moondance Boutique, h.m.a.e.m., as well as favored items from Maddox DuPont and KMADD/Moda, EMO-tions, and Maxine Gossamer. They're all a part of me, and so many others are too. I have faith in my world, my friends, and find comfort in believing.

My blog relies on  the special designs used to create the styles shared with my thanks to each designer:

Featuring Kyxe Skins & Shapes Lyric Walnut Skin Tone

Featuring !Lyrical B!zarre Dahlia Top

Featuring Hawker's House OhmEga Women's Mesh Metallic Jeans Coppernicus

Featuring Silken Moon Autumn Brocade Nail Appliers

Featuring Image Essentials Body Shots (3) Poses

Featuring h.m.a.e.m. Davina Shirt Red

Featuring Moondance Jewels Charlotte - Desir Edition

Featuring Hawker's House JamBerry Mesh Stiletto Boots Lime

1. EMO-tions: May

2. MG: Party - Inverted Crown Lashes

3. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

Sugar Daddy -- Featuring h.m.a.e.m. and Truth

I enjoy a variety of ways to set up a photo. The easiest sometimes isn't always the direction I go, and it's not always the same. Sometimes it's easier to stay on my platform and rig a studio type photo with little bits of script and color. Other times it's easier to go to a fascinating sim and play with poses til I find the right one.

I'd really never collected backgrounds though, and it's been a real treat to work with a different medium as a result of all that KaTink does with backgrounds. I set my little home studio then flipped through a number of just breathtaking photos and found one that seemed to fit the gown. I try to make it make sense. I could not see wearing this long black opera gown to a meadow somewhere, no matter the meadow's beauty.

h.m.a.e.m. never disappoints, finding Enrietta a completely different shape on the body from anything I've put on in Second Life. And that shape is one of the things that really matters. A few things we wear in life are skin tight. Nylons, for example, would not have wrinkles or many shadows. But everything else rolls round the body, curves or not, and settles with the help of gravity. It's always really beautiful when an artist can pull or push or whatever they do to the mesh, to make something new and fresh.

I'm still madly in love with my 'Sugar Daddy' for sending me a Truth Gift. I've hopped over there more in the past two weeks than I have in two years. I used Truth often when I worked for Carrie's Lingerie because she wanted hair off the body allowing the luxurious beauty of the lingerie to shine. It's amazing how much Truth and hair in general has evolved since I began working for Carrie in 2011. The style here, that frames the face and falls to the shoulders, that's a very Karyn style, maybe a tiny bit shorter for summer, and when my energy allows it, I'm ready for a trim!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart to each designer who made this blog possible:

Featuring h.m.a.e.m. Enrietta Shirt and Skirt

Featuring Truth Lunara

1. MG: Swallow Wings Lashes

2. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Alabaster Skin Tone

3. **Feel** StarDustClassical Nails

4. Chop Zuey: MVW Einn Set

5. [GoS] Boutique: Isabella Sandals

6. Manifeste Poses

Merry-Go-Round -- Featuring h.m.a.e.m. and Asset

Life reminds me of a Merry-Go-Round. It spins us in circles and it brings us to the same points over and over again. Just like the ride, it's repetitive, yet it's also fun. I'm not quite sure how that works in a moment of logical analysis, but it does work and I feel it. Today, I ran into a friend whom I met right at the beginning of my blogging my world. It was wonderful to see where she'd been, what she'd done and where she was going. It was also special to share my own jots and tittles (and no that really isn't a naughty word!!)

I thought of it as a challenge, 2 years ago. And today? Yep, still a challenge. It makes me happy. To wear clothing like this 'Afreak' jacket from h.m.a.e.m. and the lingerie 'Malorie' below it. To find a new hair designer trying to establish their brand >Asset< and know the title of the hair 'Wanderer' probably suits all of us some of the time. I'm glad I get to live and relive moments that are special with special people and get from point A to point B even if they're the same point a year later, or two or ten years. It's just another way to take a journey.

All that I do happens because of wonderful sponsors like the designers represented here:

Featuring h.m.a.e.m. Afreak 

Featuring >Asset< Wanderer Hair

1. Carrie's Lingerie: Malorie Green

2. {me.} Atria Necklace

3. Infinity Insanity Moments: Betty Heels

4. Candy Nail: Rainbow

5. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Candice Papaver Skin Tone

-- Juicy Bubblegum Lips

-- Innocence Pinks and Teals Eyes

6. MG: Groomed Lashes

7. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

8. KaTink: Mindy Set 1 and 2

A Fierce Something -- Featuring h.m.a.e.m., Zanze, and blackLiquid from the Cosmetics Fair

I think there's a genuine treat involved in working with the most creative minds in Second Life. I happen to focus on fashion, but I'm always in awe of settings and builds and other content creators too.

blackLiquid has items at the Cosmetics fair including the Tribadelica makeup and piercings shown in my photos.

I haven't blogged something from Zanze in a while, and this Cassidy dress suited me perfectly. The hem of the original dress matches the length of an elegant little mini, but then she cut out two layers, with peep holes that took the elegant dress close to the edge of in your face sexy. Oh la la!

I realized after I put the pieces together that this outfit also celebrates the quirky and wonderful that defines h.m.a.e.m. I imagine any business that calls themself Hate Me And Eat Me has a point of view that would make me and many others smile, and it's true. You can visit h.m.a.e.m. and find all sorts of interesting. The most recent item I have to share from there, the Infinite Vortex, is the yellow ribbon with black polka dots on it.I decided not to use it as a head piece, though that's how it was originally displayed. It's not really a bow tie, but in keeping with the diverse spectrum of interesting that makes this store interesting, it COULD be Salvadore Dali's idea of a bow. The piece I did use as a headpiece comes from the recent SAVIAD Fair. You'll also notice cuffs and earrings. They all came from h.m.a.e.m.

The designers who provided all the elements to create this style all make my world more fun!

Featuring h.m.a.e.m.

-- Infinite Vortex - Sun

-- Teteoinnan Headpiece 001a1

-- Aztec Cuffs

-- Transom Earrings (modified for color)

Featuring Zanze Cassidy Dress in Leather

Featuring blackLiquid Tribadelica from Cosmetics Fair

1. PosESioN Fiero Poses

2. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

3. Kyxe Skins & Shapes:

-- Orchid Skin Tone

-- Pink Berries Gloss

4. blackLiquid: Chen Face Golden

5. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Magnifica

6. SLink: Elegant 1

7. .::Shellac Nails Spill

8. Space Boots

Loads of New - Nailed It at SAVIAD, h.m.a.e.m. at Couturier's Docks, Belle Amie, Chop Zuey, {mv}, Ch, KMADD/Moda

Wow, I'm having fun with styling lately. Tonight I put together a whole smorgasboard of items that I haven't shared previously. The SAVIAD Fair is represented by the crafty nails from Nailed It.

This month's Couturier's Docks host an array of talented designers that include this dress from h.m.a.e.m. Chop Zuey gives away far more than one could ever imagine and I know there's a world of customers out there who are so grateful for Belle's goodness, and that includes me! The bracelet comes from one of her recent gift releases.

I had leggings from {MV} still in my inbox to blog folder from Sexxx Sells event last month. I also had items from the Jewelry Expo event still unopened, both the Dragons from Belle Amie and Ch's ankle boots seen here.

And I could not thank KMADD/MODA Designs enough for the selection of hair styles. Truly a pleasure...

My thanks to each designer who made this blog possible:

Featuring Nailed It Wedding Nail Appliers from SAVIAD

Featuring h.m.a.e.m. from Couturier's Dock Giulia Dress

Featuring Chop Zuey Heart and Soul Bracelet

Featuring Belle Amie ~Anguinam~ Dragons Earrings and Ring

Featuring Ch Laura Ankle Boots

Featuring {MV} Wild Side Leggins

Featuring KMADD/Moda Ava Hair

1. WoW: Diva Lashes

2. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

3. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Captivate Lips

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

5. SLink: Elegant 1

6. Poses built into props at KaTink

Breathtakingly Fun -- Featuring *LpD* Les Petits Details, h.m.a.e.m., and Eclectica

You know when you find JUST that special dress, or pair of shoes, and you want to wear them, even if it means you wear your prom dress to bed, or your brand new heels to a basketball game? 

That's the sensation I got when I got to put on this amazing gown Aprile from LpD. It's a special design for the SAVIAD Spring Fashion Fair and only one of many reasons you should visit!

h.m.a.e.m. designed the scarf-like head piece Ophelia and it looked like it was created to accessorize the new gown.

Thank you to the many designers who support me and my passion to blog:

Featuring Les Petits Details *LpD* Aprile Dress from SAVIAD

Featuring h.m.a.e.m. Ophelia Headpiece from SAVIAD

Featuring Eclectica Bowed Court Shoes

1. SLink: Elegant 1 Hands

2. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Spring Nail Appliers

3. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Chocolate Cosmos

4. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Glamour Ombre Apple

5. KMADD/Moda: Mesh Eyes

6. EMO-tions: Anna

7. Poses built into Studio at Carrie's Lingerie

It's More Than Just the Clothes... Featuring Wicca's Wardrobe, h.m.a.e.m., FINESMITH, [[Masoom]] and KMADD/Moda

If this were just about the clothes to me, I would have lost my way a long time ago. It has to be about the people to me. There are people who've been visiting and playing and living in Second Life for years, and there are some who just arrived last month.

Those with an entrepreneurial spirit will bustle forward with brilliant energy and it doesn't really matter how new they are. It's more about the attitude and the will to make it happen, and that old saying, "Where there's a will, there's a way." really makes sense.

I love listening to those who have big dreams. I didn't really even know the fashion world existed for the first years I participated in Second Life. There are many out there with huge dreams, reaching towards something special. Fashion ends up being one segment of dreamers, and they like to dream big.

Besides designers, there are a number of other businesses associated with the clothing creators. It takes a world of people who are equally passionate to market the clothes, showcase the clothes, wear the clothes, talk about the clothes and so much more. I enjoy participating in that whole process. I enjoy the process, and most of all, the people.

Featuring FINESMITH Roxaane Earrings

Featuring Wicca's Wardrobe Space Age Boots from Couturier's Docks

Featuring h.m.a.e.m. Alida Dress

Featuring [[Masoom]] Merlene Coat Red

Featuring KMADD/Moda Darius

1. SLink: Elegant 1

2. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Hannah Lily Skintone

3. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Glamour Ombre Apple

4. Kyxe Skins & Shapes: Splendor Brown Diamonds

5. KMADD/Moda: Eyes Confidence Subtle Moss

6. Face Paint: NIC Perfect Liner and Long Prim Lashes

7. Poses built in prop at Image Essentials