Wishing Well

One of my favorite artists of all time painted a portrait of my perfect world. If I could dance into the fantasy world of Thomas Kincade and the painting Make a Wish Cottage I would go today. It's been that special place in my mind where I could go if the world seemed to roar or spin out of control, and I wouldn't need to pack a thing.

Today I found a special place in Second Life that inspired the same energy, hope and fun. As I lay back thinking about the wish that I would wish the most, my mind traveled. I watched how the sun filtered brilliantly through the trees and I was mesmerized. The comfortable pant suit I wore made it easy to look chic and appreciate the setting. Violet Crush Bravin does a little bit of everything in Second Life's fashion community, from managing a modeling agency to designing her own line. I saw this Belladonna sweater and pants in her new releases information and knew I wanted to wear and share it on my next blog.

It's an oasis for the mind, this essence of hope and physical representation of that hope, but when Blink 182 sang about a Wishing Well, their lyrics went in another direction.

I went to a wishing well, I sank to the ocean floor Cut up by sharper rocks and washed up along the shore I reached for a shooting star, it burned a hole through my hand Made its way through my heart; Have fun in the promised land

Maybe there's a warning here, even on the edge of perfect hope, to be careful what you wish for, and be sure you really want it. I have had the time of my life in Second Life. It's a venue that allows for fantasy and reality to meld together. It's a place I can wish for something, then work hard to make sure that wish come true. I haven't quite arrived there... yet. I've met models and designers and many others invested in the fashion world who feel like they wished something and ended up cut up by sharper rocks and washed up on the shore. Be encouraged. It takes patience and time, and sometimes a few bumps and bruises, but the secret is  your steadfast determination. Not every wish will come true, however, no one every told me how often I could visit that serene and safe place and I've never heard there's a limited number of wishes.

(Included in this photo - Glam Affair Skin: Jadis, Poetic Eyes: Autumn Moon, EMO-tions: Anushka, Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Fantasia, Face Paint: Valentine Silver, Sexy Mama Valentine Sculpted Nails, Chop Zuey Exaltation Earrings, N-Core: Coquette Red and Image Essentials: Poses from Virtual Props to create the wishing well scene.)

Just a Moment in Time

Sometimes I do something completely random with my Second Life. I have the joy of belonging to a very diverse number of groups and the notices shared from those groups will pique my interest. Today, I visited briefly the Runway Cafe which is hosting Carnival in all it's historic beauty over the next three days. A veritable who's who in fashion were milling around, waiting for the first fashion show to celebrate this event.

Frolic leaned casually on a park bench while many others stood. I don't know if I've ever seen him without shades! To the right of his photo was Persia Bravin, the wonder genius who helps create the BOSL magazine every month. Below him, Serene Faith, one of the Miss Virtual World winners, waited patiently with passion for fashion. And to her right, Eowynn represented BOSL radio, looking stunning with a fetching lip piercing that caught my attention. The two women on either side in half frames caught my eye for different reasons. On the far left, a red headed beauty, Nayomi Gartner, one of this year's Miss Virtual World finalists, looked dressed to the nines. On the right, Viviane Drasilova had a simple gown on but still fit into the Carnival theme because she accessorized so imaginatively.

It's always been something I enjoyed, people watching, and in Second Life, no matter where you go or what function you attend, there are a vast number of people to watch, before an event ever gets underway. I was called away, off line, before the show began, but in that half hour I was there waiting, I enjoyed my time immensely.

Snowpaws Weekend News and a New Release

An elegant, sexy and sweet release arrives in time for Valentine's. Yet, because of the beautiful style being formal and lovely but not decked out in hearts and kisses, this gown will be enjoyed for many outings, long past the holiday.

There are three colors of this design, Adagio... Black, Regal (shown in photo above) and Ruby.

Events are always a significant part of Snowpaws and Second Life. Currently you'll find Snowpaws invested in a special Petites' at Petite's Kingdom. Coming soon, you'll be excited to know, Snowpaws has committed to Fashion for Life, this year's annual program to raise money for the American Cancer Society. And later in March, you will love a brand new event simply being called .theevent. It's sure to be a bright and bold celebration of all things Hollywood.

Sales are always a special part of Snowpaws and your Second Life and this week, there are an array of items marked to great prices for you.

Steals & Deals offers this chocolate-y delicious top and leggins, Eilee Mesh Blouse and Leggins.

The Undaunted Heather Gown is on sale 2.8.2013 for 100L so if you get over to Snowpaws today, you'll find this treat such a temptation.

A sexy Maselan Rouge Gown is on sale at Designer Showcase this month.

Fiore Cherry Blossom Bodysuit and Flowers is on sale at the Kastle Enchanted Petite Village from the Snowpaws Petites' collection.

Before the weekend is over, there is more to be discovered on sale, so watch this space and join in all the fun that is Snowpaws!

Liv-Glam, the K-Collection, Curiosity, Stella and ~Shadow Moon~

There are so many new things just pouring from the Liv-Glam collaborative efforts. Not only are there new releases from Liv-Glam, you find jewelry from Curiosity (FuLo) and a quirky fun casual array of new items from the K-Collection.

The Roulier Barbie all over print dress  put me in the mood to purr like this classic car's engine. Skin and more skin teases the eye with the sexy cut of this dress.

Basia earrings from Curiosity (FuLo) and dangled from my ears, artistically repeating the silver circle of the hubcaps.With the muted pinks and purples snugly hugging around my hips and echoed in my boots and jewelry, I felt ready to paint the town pink. I wonder if they'd notice!

Some of the most interesting heels came out this week from the Stella line at Liv-Glam They are color-change heels with a studded anklet that's almost two inches wide with fringe like one might find on a cowboy's suede jacket. Since the fringe is long enough to cover most of the foot, it offers the illusion of a boot. The K-Collection Gio Outfit blazes bold colors on the top and pairs with a simple classic cut trouser.

~Shadow Moon~ offered me a blogger package this week that contained elements meant for Valentine's Day. What amused me the most was the dark humor included. The table and chair with traditional hearts accentuate what I would normally associate with this holiday. However, the grey tree in the background, the Dead Tree, delivers the anti-Valentine. Several poses are built into the tree. I chose the gardening pose you see here and avoided the noose option. I have so many goals I have yet to accomplished. I'm not quite ready to cross the river Styx.

A sweet thanks to Kay Weston who owns Image Essentials. She helped adjust the props for the first set of photos so that my tall avi fit. It's a great sim with many prop and pose possibilities and great people to help.


Featured K-Collection Gio Outfit
Featured Stella XiuLan Heels
Featured ~Shadow Moon~ Valentine Chair and Table
Featured ~Shadow Moon~ Dead Heart, Valentine Tree
1. Custom Shape
2. Glam Affair Skin: Jadis
3. Poetic Eyes: Quicksilver
4. EMO-tions: Celie
5. Liv-Glam: Sculpted Lashes
6. Face Paint: The Raven
7. Quintessencia: Winter Fair Square I
8. Curiosity: Heirloom Necklace
9. Poses Built Into Items by ~Shadow Moon~

Featured Liv-Glam Roulier Barbie Allover Print Dress
Featured Liv-Glam's Curiosity Basia Earrings
1. Custom Shape
2. Glam Affair Skin: Jadis
3. Poetic Eyes: Quicksilver
4. EMO-tions: Gloria
5. Miamai: Catwalk Lashes Pink Explosion
6. Face Paint: Love and Care Sneak Peek
7. [SHOCK] Starshine Glitters Nails
8. Victoria Endsleigh: Powder Pink Silver and Pink Bangle
9. Lassitude & Ennui: Nostalgia
10. Image Essentials Props and Poses

Baboom! Chicka Chicka Boom Boom

The name Baboom! always sounds like a giant sound going off in my head when I read it, as if something amazing is happening. It's a super name for a business owned by the designer Kyra Camel because she lives up to that name and something amazing always IS happening at her store.

This week, Baboom! officially moved to a brand new location: http://slurl.com/secondlife/New/81/128/21/ If you haven't been there since the move, you'll want to drop by for a visit.

Among the many changes related to the move, there are several new releases as well. I loved how she designed this mesh skirt with a super high waist. When I paired it with the corset and bra from one of Carrie's Lingerie's new releases, it resoundingly echoed SEXY...Sexy...sexy...sexy... with that same thunderous Baboom! Several versions of the skirt include color blocking and the stylish black and white that's already appearing to be a major theme for 2013 fashion. And while I'm thinking about fashion trends for 2013, the Oriental/Far East look appears to be in many fashion houses this spring. At Baboom! you'll find Asia Moon and Blue Moon among the new releases, and they definitely fit with the popular Oriental theme.

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom actually comes from a children's book, written to teach the ABC's, and when I used to read it aloud to my boys, the Boom Boom was their favorite part. Now they're 23 and almostttttt 21 (yes he reminds me of this regularly) and I think the idea of Chicka Chicka Boom Boom may have changed in their minds a bit. Now cheerleaders, Victoria Secret Models, or trip to the beach may inspire Chicka Chicka Boom Boom... or Baboom! in their minds. And rightly so. Baboom! offers attractive, unique, beautiful and sexy items. If you haven't been lately, check out the new digs, and the new releases.

(Also seen in the photos above: Glam Affair Skin: Jadis, Poetic Eyes: Quicksilver, Face Paint: -new release- The Raven + #9 OMG Gloss, Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Divina, Finesmith: French Sky Nails, EMO-tions: Winternight, and N-Core: Triumph)

 

New Face Paint Naomi Smoke, Carrie's VIP and Chop Zuey

Both of these outfits have a great deal in common. Both showcase the VIP items from Carrie's Lingerie January and February. Both display Chop Zuey Black Ice. And both boldly show the skill of Face Paint's creator in this week's new make-up on sale for 55L.

The January VIP outfit from Carrie's has the look of winter, with snowflakes and the cool ivory base color. The intensity of the new Naomi Smoke Face Paint stands out when paired with this lingerie.

Not only does Carrie's offer VIP free gifts, 25% discount on new releases and other special treats, you also have an array of places to take beautiful photographs and these spaces are updated regularly. The background here looks like it was designed to go with my outfit.

This photograph accentuates the beauty of the newest make-up I've gotten from Face Paint and one of the new Chop Zuey sets I have not blogged yet. I still have a few more pieces, and she keeps releasing more must haves!

I love the way the rose has poses that are all over the place. This reminded me of a Maxim add, or something you might find in Sports Illustrated. Both magazines take luscious photos of girls in sexy poses, but they keep their clothes while they do the photo shoot.

If you look closely at this photo, you may notice a different shape. This shape I've named Kim Brook after the stunning UK model who's well endowed naturally. I know that all shapes and sizes look hot in lingerie when it's made well, and I know the new Lola Tango Appliers are important. Hopefully, this shape offers the curvier option for a model shape and a shape that would work well with those appliers. It will be out at Face Paint this week as well for 55L.


Featured Carrie's Lingerie January VIP
Featured Chop Zuey Black Ice
Featured Face Paint 55L Sneak Peek Naomi Smoke
1. Custom Shape
2. Glam Affair Skin: Jadis
3. Poetic Eyes: Autumn Moon
4. Gaeline Mesh Lashes: Divina
5. Finesmith: French Sky Nails
6. Bax Boots: Prestige Boots Black Suede
7. Poses Built into Props at Carrie's VIP Shop
8. EMO-tions Fabienne

Featured Carrie's Lingerie February VIP
Featured Face Paint 55L Curve Appeal (shape)
1. Glam Affair Skin: Jadis
2. Poetic Eyes: Autumn Moon
3. EMO-tions: Taylor
4. Stella: Shanti Knee Boot
5. Poses Built into Props at Carrie's VIP Shop
6. Chop Zuey: Black Ice
7. Face Paint: Naomi Smoke

Reposted from thebestofSL.com - I've Seen Fire and I've Seen Rain

This year may be the best yet in my Second Life. I began in 2005 as another version of Caryn and have seen it grow and evolve in so many ways. I love the history - Once upon a time bling jewelry was THE it thing to wear and if you could blind your neighbor, that was better still. Now? No way. I think the speed we live life online makes experiences curious. It's hard to perceive how much or little time has passed since... If you're on vacation and away for a few days, literally off line for 3 days, and you return, it feels like you've missed an eon. If you stay up all night typing or talking in voice, the newer faster and finger friendly way to connect, the night seems to pass as quick as lightning, and then ... gone.

 

 I'm so blessed to be working with an array of stellar designers. Mirja Mills creates new hair week after week, and does so in such a way that regardless how you live your life in Second Life, a new release will suit your needs often, from the calm and sweet to the vivacious and wild. This hair called Sunburst reminded me of flames all around my face and as a massive James Taylor fan, the song Fire and Rain came to mind. How apt is that song to this world in our shared Second Life. Some days are so incredible, and I feel like I'm on top of the world. Other days are challenging or sad.

 

 I had not yet unpacked this beautiful gown from Azul that a generous friend gave me at Christmas. It also reminded me of flames blazing, a world brilliant and crazy and wonderful. However, my January has been on of those months that JT sang about when he considered the rain. He was only 20 and he'd just lost a friend to suicide when he wrote Fire and Rain. I spent the month in fear of that big C word - Cancer. Biopsies. Medicine. Doctors. I would have preferred to be across the world playing hooky from my life, but I think the universe keeps us in balance with the fire an the rain, the light and the dark, and the ups and downs... If we did not have one, we would not understand the other. The biopsies came back - BENIGN. It was the light I needed after a long storm.

 

 I put this outfit together, celebrating the warmth of the sun and the warmth of friendships that burn brighter than any fire deep in our souls. I've seen fire and I've seen rain. I've seen lonely days, but I've been blessed and found friends to carry me in the weak moments, and keep me warm. The jewelry fit in well to this theme today. Chop Zuey has several locations where there are exclusive items sold. Ms. Belle told me of October Bettencourt's Fashion Chamber and I visited today, happy to find the "Love Struck" set, hearts and white gold, reminding me in another way of how love works. It can be bold and blunt or quiet and calm, and from those who know us best, they often know what we need without ever speaking a word. I'm glad for those people in my world who remind me of all the brilliance in my world, both on and off line. It's priceless. 

Also seen in photo: Oceane's Rose Natural Honey Tan, Poetic Eyes - Autumn Moon, Gaeline Mesh Lashes - Divina, Noya - Red Ribbon Heels, Face Paint: Lip Pop and Sparkle Shadows, Poses by Focus Poses and Wet Cat, all photos taken on second floor of October Bettencourts Fashion Chamber