Favorite perfume or cologne?

Perfume:

Us girls in the locker room during school always borrow each other's perfume. My friend had one that smelled *really* good. She would ask if I wanted a spray so I spun around while she spritzed it on me. She kept it in her gym bag. The perfume she had was Black Raspberry Vanilla from B&BW and I loved it but whenever I set out to find it I could never remember the name. My friend eventually gave it to me for Christmas. It's kind of a girly smell.... It smells like raspberries and a floral mix.

 

So a couple of weeks ago I went shopping with my grandma for my birthday. She wanted to get me something from B&BW while we were in the store because she had a coupon. I asked the sales lady where I could find the Black Raspberry Vanilla. She told me it was discontinued... I was SO mad! I'm not big on perfume but I seriously loved it! I should have known because Bath and Body Works seems to have a recurring pattern of breaking my heart.

My second favorite perfume that ISN'T discontinued is the Adidas Moves for Her. I'm not sporty and never will be, but I totally love this stuff. The lotion is good too. I found this in my grandma's cabinet one time. Apparently one of my other cousins had left it there. My cousin said I could have it... I've loved it ever since.



Cologne:

My favorite cologne is McGraw by Tim McGraw. A cute boy at school smelled REALLY good and I asked him what kind of cologne he was wearing... And that's what he told me it was. It's kind of a woodsy, outdoorsy smell. A hint of whiskey, a hint of lavender, etc., and very masculine. I want to buy a mini bottle just for myself so I can spray it in my room. And to top it all off it's by TIM MCGRAW! Mmm!



You can buy them at Amazon:

P.S. If you buy any of these through these links I earn a small commission. So "link" away! Thanks :-)

Luckily, you can still find some Black Raspberry Vanilla: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_41?url=search-alias%3Dbeauty&field-keywords=black+raspberry+vanilla+bath+and+body+works&sprefix=black+raspberry+vanilla+bath+and+body+wor%2Caps%2C178

Adidas Moves for Women: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_21?url=search-alias%3Dbeauty&field-keywords=adidas+moves+for+women&sprefix=adidas+moves+for+wome%2Caps%2C428

And Tim McGraw cologne... mmm! http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_21?url=search-alias%3Dbeauty&field-keywords=adidas+moves+for+women&sprefix=adidas+moves+for+wome%2Caps%2C428#/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dbeauty&field-keywords=McGraw+by+Tim+McGraw&rh=n%3A3760911%2Ck%3AMcGraw+by+Tim+McGraw

Annyeonghi Kyeseyo,
Maddie

I LOVE Dancing and Good Party Music

All I can say is I love to dance and I love good music! It makes me the happiest girl in the world! When I hear a good song I do NOT hold back any dance moves. I'll just be at my desk at work mouthing the words and dancing in my chair. I don't even care if anyone sees because it makes my day happier especially if I'm stuck at work. I just can't tell you how much I LOVE to dance!

So one of my BFFs Miranda showed me "The Boogie That Be" By The Black Eyed Peas. It was LOVE at first sight (Or listen). 

As I am typing this post I'm listening to it. I can't stop...listening...I suppose it's a good problem ;)

So some of you might be nervous about dancing. Let me tell you what! I couldn't dance, but I PRACTICED and PRACTICED. Went to parties and practiced. Got all my girlfriends together, turned on the strobe light, and just danced! Practiced with Zumba! It's all about practice :)

So what songs to practice to?

Boohahaha! Do I have some suggestions for you? Oh, yes darling. I sure do.


1.) Strange Clouds  - B.o.B (feat. Lil Wayne)------Chill Sexy Dancing
2.) Cinema  - (Skrillex Remix) [Ft. Gary Go]------Head Bangin', Fist Pumpin', Crazy Fast
3.) The Boogie That Be - The Black Eyes Peas------Chill Sexy Dancing/Drunk Party Dancing
4.) Cupid Shuffle - Cupid------Well, you do -The Cupid Chuffle- dance to this song.
5.) The Motto (Bonus Track) [feat. Lil Wayne] - Drake------Chill Sexy Dancing
6.) Lights - Ellie Goulding------Slower and Chill
7.) Fergalicious - Fergie------Fun, Sexy, Sassy Dancing
8.) We Run the Night (feat. Pitbull) [Edited] - Havana Brown------Drunk Party Dancing
9.) Boots & Boys - Ke$ha------Drunk Party Dancing
10.) Sleazy - Ke$ha------Drunk Party Dancing
11.) Cannibal - Ke$ha------Drunk Party Dancing
12.) Shots - LMFAO------Drunk Party Dancing
13.) Sorry For Party Rocking - LMFAO------Drunk Party Dancing
14.) Promises - Nero------Head Bangin', Fist Pumpin', Crazy Fast
15.) Super Bass  - Nicki Manaj------Fun Sassy Dancing
16.) Birthday Cake - Rihanna------Chill Sexy Dancin/Drunk Party Dancing
17.) Something Good Can Work - Two Door Cinema Door------ Fun Sassy Dancing
18.) Rack City - Tyga------Chill Sexy Dancin/Drunk Party Dancing
19.) Wobble - V.I.C (not to mention that boy be FINE!)------The actual Wobble Dance/Chill Sexy Dancin/Drunk Party Dancing
20.) Whip My Hair - Willow Smith------Head Bangin', Fist Pumpin', Crazy Fast
21.) Day 'n' Nite -  Kid Cudi------Drunk Party Dancing
22.) Make Me Proud (feat. Nicki Minaj) - Drake------Chill Sexy Dancin/Drunk Party Dancing
23.) In The Ayer (Feat. Will.I.Am) - Flo Rida------Fast Drunk Party Dancing
24.) How To Love - Lil Wayne------Slow Dance

Also these songs would be great for while you are working out! 

Other Tips:

Party Bus:

(I have a suburban so we can fit 8 people in the car so that's why we call it the party bus)
Get all your friends in your car one night. Then blast these song and dance! You don't have to go anywhere (If you are going somewhere it's great for getting you in the party mood), just drive around, dance, have fun, and get weird looks at stop lights. REMEMBER this is NOT and excuse to drive like a crazy person. Be careful and drive the speed limit! 

YouTube:

Look up other people's dance moves! Practice from them.

Rip Up Your Cool Card and Don't be Self Conscious:

Don't be too "cool" to dance and don't be self conscious at parties. If you aren't dancing you'll have a terrible time! No body is paying attention to your moves because it's so dark on the dance floor and everybody is paying attention to their own moves. So if you are not and expert yet it's fine! I know this sounds weird, but people will only look if you're good! So if you're bad no one cares! 

Shake Your Booty,

Tay

$$ Saving Tip

I haven't posted about saving money lately, so I knew I had to catch you guys up. Here is a tip:

Say no to cable.

Whhhaaat? Yes, you heard me right. When I was little I didn't know how anyone could survive without any cable. There was nothing on it to watch that was for kids during the day! Except for Saturday morning cartoons.

That, of course, was before Netflix.

It's simple, guys, and you see it advertised on television all the time. Netflix, only 8 bucks a month. Well, they aren't lying. If you don't upgrade to the $16 package (which that is only where you can get about any movie or show sent to your house), it is only 8 dollars. Simple as that.

Besides, who has time to watch all of the shows and movies cable has to offer anyway? DVR is great, and at one time I thought I couldn't live without it, but you'll learn to get over it.

Order Netflix today. http://www.netflix.com/

Nawatha hamu wemu,

Maddie

Homemade Olive Garden Breadsticks

 I don't cook often, but when I do, I make sure to find a good reliable recipe that sounds good. (Sorry, I had a Dos Equis moment!! LOL.) Anyhow... I found this other recipe that I really thought sounded good. I had printed it off and stuck it in the recipe box where it sat for a few months. Then I finally remembered I had all of the stuff for it and that I might as well as just make it.

The recipe is from Full Bellies, Happy Kids and my family really enjoyed this when I made it for them. So here is the recipe: http://fullbellies.blogspot.com/2011/05/homemade-olive-garden-bread-sticks.html

Happy cooking!

Bis Spater,

Maddie

Alto Frio Baptist Encampment Pros and Cons List

Just got back from camp! Talk about being tired! Getting 6 1/2 hours of sleep every night while being jet lagged and forced to do physical activity! (Good thing I actually like physical activity and that I packed a bunch of Monster Energy drinks...even though I didn't really drink any because I didn't have the time.)

Anyway, this is my second year going to Alto Frio Baptist Encampment (Master's Camp). It's 5 days long...leaving is truly bittersweet:

Pros:

1.) While you are there you are surrounded by your your bothers and sisters in Christ who lift you up and encourage you everyday: My church brought about 40 kids to camp (there are more than that, but a few couldn't make it.) Some of them at the beginning were more of acquaintances. I can speak for all of us by saying that all of us are now family. Our church really is a family and we are all very close. We all share a passion for Jesus. Not to mention we are all BFF.

2.) You are able to have total focus during worship while you are there: I'd like to add though that it's not that you are in the middle of nowhere with no electronics that makes you focus, there is plenty else to distract you (giggly friends, cute boys, etc.), but it's a decision to focus. Here you can realize that.

3.) Your relationship with Jesus grows stronger: You have time to clear your head of all the nonsense and just focus on the two of you.  The theme of this year is "Roots". Growing your roots strong in God's word and in your relationship. This was your theme verse:

"And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught and you will overflow with thankfulness."

Colossians 2:6-7

4.) Listening to God:  As I get older I have to think about "what I want to be when I grow up". Obviously, I love writing! And I've been pretty set on it. There has just been a part of me that felt like...that's not exactly what I should be doing. I had no idea why. Was it just typical doubt? 

While walking upstairs to my dorm I noticed a Bible verse on the wall:

"Everything has already been decided. It was known long ago what each person would be. So there's no use arguing with God about your destiny."

Ecclesiastes 6:10

Then, for the whole next day something just kept running through my mind...I was meant to go into ministry. However, I was reluctant. I mean I really didn't want to even consider that for a possible career choice! After worship every church group is supposed to meet in an assigned room and talk about the day. I knew I had to raise my hand and share what my feelings were. So with a beating heart and sweaty palms, I raised my hand and shared what I had to say.  I felt embarrassed about it at first, but then it sunk in. I was called by God to do this. I just can't brush off that feeling. 

After talking to one of my new friends (who also has been called to go into ministry) I felt better about the whole thing (thank you so much for talking to me and helping me!) and I figured out I want to pursue this. I have to. I'm going to do that through writing. It's my gift and I need to use it. 

The first step, we (My friend and I) are starting a Bible study at our church for just the girls. It's going to be student led by us two and we are going to talk about typical girl things. But instead we are going to do it on a more intimate level with Jesus. Lights dimmed, serious attitude (for part of it, there will be giggling too), and spilling our guts to one another. Man! If I had that when I was younger I think things would have gone a lot smoother than they did. Also, our youth pastor is a guy...you just can't let your guts spill as much in this case. 

Last, but not least we are planning regularly scheduled slumber parties where we will discuss the same issues, but have more time to unload and talk. (Hah, I sound like such a girl.)

5.) Break Downs: On the last night of camp we had worship and some people were crying because they really felt the lesson. I was a bit upset (not that much, just a slight feeling) because I hadn't felt it on the same level as they did (I had the other nights). If I only knew...

Instead of our usual "Church Group Time" the sponsors and pastor set up our room with tons of candles and rearranged the entire room! The boys were asked to tuck in there shirts (which about as hard to do as pulling teeth) and we were asked to walk in one by one with no talking. We did The Lord's Supper, prayed, and sang. Then we were asked to talk about things that were bothering us. Of course I'm not going into detail, but everyone was crying...Teenage boys, who have a usual mask of swagger, were breaking down and crying. Girls were throwing out all their burdens for everyone to see. And in our family (our church) we can do that kind of thing because there is absolutely no judgment from the others. Everyone will listen, understand, pray for you, lift you up, and watch you begin your healing through Jesus. 

6.) Sweet Little Examples: So there are the two adorable little middle schoolers that we all suspected liked each other (I will call them Girly and Sweet Boy)...Girly and Sweet Boy were walking around camp during free time when Girly suddenly got sick. While Girly was puking you would think that Sweet Boy would be disturbed and just stand off to the side...Instead, he held her hear back for her! When Girly was telling us (the girls in our dorm) this we all went "Awww!!!" in unison! So we had the plan of during "Church Group Time", when we share things that happened in the day, my friend (the same one who wants to go into ministry) was going to stand up and give this whole speech about what happened.

It went something like this: 

"OK, so usually the middle school boys are being taught a few things about how to 'get the ladies' from the high school boys." All the boys cheer jokingly. "Well, the high school boys are going to learn a thing or two from this little boy right here." She points over to Sweet Boy. "Earlier today Girly was puking her brains out and instead of him just standing there all disgusted he...held her hair back for her! Learn a thing or two from him! He's a keeper!" All the girls cheer! 

Cons:

1.) The shower head: I hate to complain, but this was just terrible...there were three showers in the bathroom and during free time us girls (four of us took our shower at this time) would take our showers and chit chat (and yes, sing) during it. I guess it was a popular time to take showers (we are just guessing that it does this when a lot of people are taking their showers) because the water was literally a cold dribble! It took like and hour to take a shower!  Occasionally it would be warm dribble or cold, but had pressure. 

2.) Cafeteria Food: Yeah, self explanatory.  

3.) Texas Heat: Yet again, self explanatory.

Over all, I love this camp and I would recommend it to everyone! I look forward to it every year! 

Much love, 

Tay

P.S. I really missed my mattress. 

Shellac Review

Shellac Nail Polish:

The biggest thing right now! Cost $20 more than a pedicure($40)...plus you get exposed to nasty UV rays when they bake it on your feet (or hands). On your feet it lasts a month. On your hands it lasts a week or so.

I think it's not worth it between the cost, the time, and the UV rays. :/

Oh Well,

Tay

Pinterest Recipe I Tried

Pinterest is the mother of all ideas and this is where I found this really good recipe. Lately I have been in a cooking type of mood and I have wanted to try new things and experiment. That's really odd for me because normally I do not like to take risks with food I haven't tried, etc. But I tried it anyhow.

It was Hibachi soup - the kind you get at the Japanese steakhouse for an appetizer. I've only had the privilige of eating at those fancy restaurants twice, unfortunately. But both times I have loved the soup they brought out before the meal. It's the kind of thing you want when your sick... Kind of like a comfort food. Plus, I love a good soup.

Well, here's my take on it. It was really good. It wasn't hard to make, either. One thing I wish I would have done differently was let it simmer for a while to soak up the vegetable juices. The lady on the website said she lets it simmer for a few hours sometimes. I should have done that, because I didn't think it was very flavorful. But despite all that... It was good! So that can be a note for people who want to make it: Let it cook for a few hours.
But I will definitely be making this again. My family really liked it, also.

Here is the link to the recipe: http://cookingwithcarrie.blogspot.com/2009/06/hibachi-soup.html

Te veo despues,

Maddie

Interesting Quote

The best time for planning a book is while you’re doing the dishes.

-Agatha Christie

I think this has much truth to it LOL

See ya,

Tay

DIY Real Life Pinterest Quote Board!

So... Tay told me about Pinterest in October of last year. So I got an account and immedietly loved it! I think my Words (or Quote) board was one of the first boards I created. I loved all of the quotes and things I was pinning on it.
In my room, I have a bulletin board and it didn't have anything good on it. So I started taking little notecards and writing down the quotes on the back of them (the side without the lines). I wrote them all pretty and fancy. And I started "pinning" those notecards to my bulletin board. It had a lot of my favorite quotes on it and some pictures and post cards, etc.
My mom saw it and liked the whole idea of it. Therefore, she wanted me to do the same in the living room. I was like "Okay..". She got an old 6-pane window out of the shed that wasn't in use and cleaned it up. Then she hung it in the mini-hallway that seperates the computer room and living room. Here is the final product:

Cool, huh?

It's filled with our family's favorite quotes or quotes we just like. There are some pictures added in there also to give it a homey feel.

I encourage you to make your own Real Life Pinterest Board! It is fun to do and a conversation starter! It's one of those things that when people walk into your home they will go... "Oh, what's this?" Then look at it and get inspired. It is so neat. You'll get a lot of compliments on it too!

Farvel,

Maddieeee :)

Back From Kauai

I'm back! Did you miss me? Of course you did, I'm fabulous to be around. Just kidding...for the most part. ;)

Rae and I went to Kauai, Hawaii for two weeks! It's a five hour time difference from Texas...I'm so tired even though I woke up at 12:30. To add onto that, Rae and I have church camp on Monday. We have to go to bed at 12 and wake up at 7 every day...with jet lag.

Before I get to how the trip went, I'd like to say THANK YOU to Mad! She's posted for us for two weeks! Thanks!!! You've done wonderfully!

Anyway, back to the trip. As you can guess...it was beautiful! Kauai is called to Garden Island for a reason. So lush, so green.

Things to know if you go:

1.) Wal-Mart and K-Mart are the best for touristy things like t-shirts, shells, post cards, w.e. Other stores have the exact same stuff, but twice as expensive!
2.) Milk cost $10 a gallon at Foodland...Go to Costco! For goodness sake, you'll save so much if you go there!
3.) They don't use plastic bags at stores anymore. I can't tell you how many times we forgot our reusable bags at the condo. Keep yours in the car ALWAYS! Or you'll have to spend any where from 50 cents to 4 dollars on a reusable bag you'll just forget again.
4.) Eat in! I know you're on vacation, but cook!  You'll save tons of money! Lunch for a family of four at a "cheep" restaurant cost at least $50! And dinner...take my advice and only go to dinner every once in a while.
5.) If you are going to eat out...We went to a ton of restaurants! Here's a list for yummy food:

BEST RESTAURANT: Fish Hut - They have the BEST coconut shrimp on the island, no joke. They butterfly their shrimp so it's easy to eat. Their batter stays on the shrimp so it's not messy. However, it's not a fancy sit down  restaurant. It's in the middle of Coconut Marketplace. So it's great if you are wanting lunch before shopping! Warning: You will get bombarded by obese pigeons.  

BEST ICE CREAM:  Pink's: First, I love the name and the fact that the store is painted pink! The employee there was really nice! She reminded me of Keke Palmer! Also the ice cream was sooo goooood. I got chocolate swirl! It's like vanilla ice cream with chocolate chunks with a hint of mint. When you get a medium you get two toppings. I got hot fudge and coconut! Yummy! Also try the Kauai Pie!

BEST ONION RING: Bubba Burger: On top of  great onion rings they have a decent burger. It's not fantastic, but it's not terrible. Also if you buy a shirt you get a free drink with your meal every time you wear it back. The shirt will pay for it's self! 

BEST BEER BATTERED SHRIMP: Shrimp Station: They have good shrimp in general! Not as good as Fish Hut, but it's great if you are spending a day in Kapa'a! 

WORST RESTAURANT: Bouchons: The first time we went there two years ago it was amazing! However, when we went back...The staff was unfriendly. Our wait to get a table was sooo long! The food was nasty. I found a hair rolled in my sushi! The waiter tried to "help" us because of the hair by giving us $5 of his own money...and his finger nails had black underneath them. I was disturbed.

BIG HYPE, BIG DISAPPOINTMENT: Bull Shed: People always talk about how good the food is there specifically the steak. I don't know if it's because I'm from Texas where the steaks flow like milk and honey and taste like food of the gods, but the food at Bull Shed was not top quality...the seasoning was off and the cooking technique was bad. The decor needed serious updating! 

6.) Go tubing! Rae and I went tubing through an old sugarcane plantation! So fun and relaxing! The employees are very nice! And everyone sings when you go through tunnels.

7.) If you go kayaking use a tandem kayak...I got tired fast! I have no idea why because when I usually go kayaking I can go for ours, but 1/4 of a mile in I was ready to turn back....but I didn't! 

8.) Go to the hot tub every night after activities and chill. You will meet a ton of new friends there! They can also suggest things for you to do and vice versa!

9.) Spend time at beaches! You're in Hawaii! GO to a beach everyday if you want!

10.) Stay out of your norm! Don't turn on the TV. Don't go see a movie. Don't do anything that is not outside. Enjoy the beauty of the island!

11.) Pick up the local slang. In stead of saying "You're Welcome" say "No worries". When you a agree with something someone said say "Sha Brah!" Say "yeah" a lot. Say yeah at the end of your sentence kind of like a Canadian sounding thing. Ask "So you can use it in a sentence like this, yeah?" Then the other person replies "Yeah." 

12.) Enjoy yourself and relax! 

Love Y'all,

Tay 

YAY!

Woohooo! Tay and Rae are flying back home today! :D It's been a long two weeks without them on here! I am SO glad they'll be home!

La revedere,

Mad

Something interesting...

This sentence has 7 different meanings depending on the stressed word.

"I never said she stole my money."

I never said she stole my money: Someone else said it.
I never said she stole my money: You are defending the person who supposedly did it when you're being accused of saying it.
I never said she stole my money: I never said she stole my money, but I implied it someway.
I never said she stole my money: Someone stole my money, but I didn't accuse her of it (But I really don't know who did it.
I never said she stole my money: She could have just "borrowed" it... either way, she has my money.
I never said she stole my money: She stole money, but not necessarily from me.
I never said she stole my money: She stole something of mine, but not necessarily money.

I love this stuff.

Hasta La Vista,

Maddie

Free Sheet Music for Piano :)

So since I play piano I am always on the lookout for free sheet music. Well, I have found a few just through googling things.

http://www.1001sheets.com/,

http://pianotte.szm.com/,

and....

http://www.take-a-piano-sheet-music-break.com/

You're welcome!

Namaste,

Maddie

Favorite Books List (with pictures!)

I love to read, obviously. I have created a list (surprise, surprise... I know) of all of my favorite books. Now, I know that this list is numbered, but the first one isn't my most favorite and the last one isn't my least favorite... They are all equal to me. I just numbered it for better organization.

1.  Firefly Lane, by Kristin Hannah. My cousin lended this to me and told me that I would love it. Well, she was right. It's a thick book and I read it fairly quickly. Then I bought myself a copy.
2.  Three Weeks with My Brother, by Nicholas Sparks. Nick and his brother Micah go on a trip together and reminisce about their life. It's probably the best memoir I've ever read. Autobiographies are the best :)
3.  Speak, by Laurie Halse Anderson. My seventh grade English teacher recommended this to me. I really enjoyed it. The movie was good also. It's kind of weird to see Kirsten Stewert before her Twilight days.
4.  The Help, by Kathryn Stockett. I absolutely adored this book. It is historical fiction and set it one of my favorite time periods (the 60's). The movie is one of my favorite films also. Emma Stone was the perfect person to play Skeeter. Jessica Chastain fit Miss Celia's part very well also.
5.  Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl, by Anne Frank. I read this in two days. I could relate to her feelings really well.
6.  The Choice, by Nicholas Sparks. This was definitely my favorite book I read by him, besides Three Weeks with My Brother, of course, but you can't compare those because they aren't really in the same category.
7.  Marley & Me, by John Grogan. I cried like a baby in this book! It really showed the connection between a family and their dog. Worth reading.
8.  Number the Stars, by Lois Lowry. I read this in my sixth grade language arts class. I loved it so much I bought myself a copy.
9.  The Complete Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook, by Piven and Borgenicht. No other book has made me laugh so hard! I don't know if the writers wanted it to be stupid on purpose or what, but the things in here are truly ridiculous. They can't help you at all! (Well, maybe a few.) But that's why I really like it.
10.  On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft, by Stephen King. I'm not one for scary novels, so I knew if I wanted to read something of his, this should be it. I loved the memoir part most, but the writing part was helpful also.
11.  How to Find Flower Fairies, by Cicely Barker. This is the most prettiest book I have ever seen. It is a pop up and has cursive handwriting in it. It is about this girl, Cicely, and her private fairy notebook that was published posthumously. It is so fun to read and look at.

What are your favorite books? Have you ever read any of these?

Adios,

Mad

My new writing journal :-)

Like I said yesterday, I went on a mini-vacation. It mostly consisted of shopping and just laying around. Well there was a Barnes & Noble store across the street from our hotel so that was one of our first stops once we all got settled in. This location is HUGE! It has two floors. It is so nice. I just loved it. My mom, sister, and I spent $70 when we added all of our sums together. It was ridiculously worth it.

Anyhow... I have mentioned my little writer's notebook in some of my posts recently. It's where I jot down the books I read and my Favorite Words list, both of which I have blogged on here. Well, while shopping at the Barnes & Noble store something caught my eye. It was a shelf of leather journals. They were all so pretty and soft! Vintage looking, too. :)

So I finally chose one that I really like. It has old-looking handwriting on the cover, but I can't understand it because it is Italian (that just adds to the coolness!). It comes with a cute little ribbon on the side and a ribbon bookmark attached to the binding. It is SO adorable and SO my style.

Here it is: My new writer's notebook on the left, and my old one on the right. See the difference?

My new one is so much fancier and prettier :) I was flipping through it in the hotel when a card came out of it that said:

"Caro Lorenzo Scrittore Leather Journal

The cover of this journal is graced by a reproduction from an actual letter written in 1896 Perugia, Italy. The Caro Lorenzo (Dear Lorenzo) salutation, gives an endearing feeling of friendship dating back more than a century as well as displaying the lost art of letter writing.

The journal utilizes a unique transfer printing technique with an antiquing process. The leather is genuine nubuck and the pages are ivory colored and lined.

Handcrafted in Florence, Italy."

Isn't that so cool? I'm so happy.

Here is the link to look at other B&N leather journals http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s?keyword=leather+journals&store=allproducts&page=%2Findex.asp&prod=univ&pos=&box

Here is the link to the journal I bought :) http://www.barnesandnoble.com/p/home-gift-scrittore-printed-italian-lined-leather-journal-6-x-85/23735127?ean=9780594170228

Sayonara,

Mad

Hotel Elevator Secret: Get to your floor without stopping!

I recently had the privilege to go on a mini-vacation with a family friend. I had seen a trick on http://www.pinterest.com/ that had though that it would be the PERFECT opportunity to test it out and see if it works!

The trick was that you hold the Door Close button and the floor you want to go to at the same time for 5 seconds when you step in. It allows you to go to the floor you want WITHOUT stopping!

It worked everytime I got in! I thought it would have been fun to do at one of those hotels where the elevators are glass and everyone can see you being "escorted" to your floor with no stops. You could laugh at everyone who you pass by!

It would also be nifty for lunchtime or rush hour at work. Or if you have to use the bathroom really bad... :)

Either way I hope I have enlightened you with this special trick!!



Shalom,

Mad

Favorite Words List :)

You know how I love lists! Well I read on http://www.pinterest.com/ to create this list to get your creative juices flowing. It's a work in progress, because you don't ever have to stop adding to it.

1. memoir
2. laissez faire
3. gait
4. perhaps
5. skeptical
6. tactic
7. guerrilla warfare
8. chuckle
9. reminisce
10. projectile vomitiing
11. Antoinette
12. crepe
13. recall
14. democracy
15. fiancee
16. forte
17. homogeneous
18. eloquence
19. abundant
20. oxymoron
21. onomatopoeia
22. l'esprit de escalalier

So there you go! I just started it, so it's not very long yet! In my notebook I actually made it really pretty looking. I used all of my prettiest handwriting to write the words and there is doodlings around it. I encourage you to make your own because it's very amusing and fun. But when you have a word you want to add to it but you don't have your writer's notebook close by, WRITE IT DOWN at least somewhere. You'll forget it. Write it on your hand or just a sticky note. The biggest lie I've ever told myself is that I'd remember something without writing it down. What a fool I'd been!

If you have made your own Favorite Words list, comment on this post and leave a link to it so I can look at yours. Let me know what you think of mine also. :)



Ciao,

Mad

What decade should have you been born in?

SO yesterday I posted that I was born in the wrong decade. That I should have been born in the 1940's or 1960's. Possibly the Roaring 20's when everything was good.

Here's why.... 

The 1940's: Well it was WWII... I am usually pretty facinated with that. Woman were classy and had self respect. All of the things happening in Germany at the time would be really creepy, including Hitler. Pearl Harbor would be sad, though. 8 out of 10 boys who graduated school went to war. Everything anybody do was centered around the war. Smoking was seen on television by women and it just became acceptable. Not that I'd want to smoke. Girls couldn't date till they were 16 and the girl's parents would actually get to meet the young man. There was lots of rations. I just think it would be an interesting time period.

The 1960's: I think it would be cool to be one of those crazy teen girls in love with The Beatles. Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash also :) Telephones didn't have dials and you had to talk to an operator to get through to someone. When dials did come out, everyone thought it was awesome because the operator couldn't listen to your conversation. The assasination of JFK and his alleged affair with Marilyn Monroe. I also like Marilyn Monroe's bathing suit, you know, the one piece halter thing. I loved the bouffants and the bob type hairdos. The fashion was awesome! - the dresses were probably my favorite part, though :)

Look at that sweet coat!!

What decade should you have lived in? :)

Au revoir,

Mad

Things about Me :)

On Tay's and my old blog we posted about our "quirks". It was really fun to write, and I had other people tell me they had fun reading them. I don't think it will be quirks though - this time, anything goes. Anything cool or interesting that other people might find intriguing.

- I use http://www.thesaurus.com/ for everything. It is so useful!
- I have been playing piano since I was 5.
- I read book after book after book! I recently learned how to speed read, also.
- I don't really have a favorite "subject", but my favorite class in school is choir.
- I love to travel.
- I love idioms. They are so facinating!
- I love to write.
- My biggest weaknesses are rings, purses, and most of all, dresses.
- I love learning about Marie Antoinette. I have read several books about her. Even though she wasn't that smart when it came to ruling etc. she was a very interesting gal!
- I think I was born in the wrong decade. I should have been born in the 40's or 60's. I can't decide which one I like better.
- I love vintage clothing. It's ironic because I used to hate antique stores when I was littler, but now it's different.
- I call people affectionate nicknames. Babe, Dear, Love, Sweetheart, Tutz, Hon, and Darling are all in my vocabulary. Sometimes I use Kitten because it's really cheesy lol
- I love lists. Well, I guess I have posted my reading list on here once. I have a favorite word list too. Maybe I should post that pretty soon?
- When I go out into the sun right after being in a dark room, I sneeze.
- I snort when I laugh sometimes. I know, I know, awkward!
- My nose is crooked, but I've never broke it. I have had several people ask if I have, though...

What are some things about you that others might find interesting? Comment below!

auf Wiedersehn,

Maddie

BEST way to naturally cure blackheads!

I found this idea through Pinterest... It's awesome, truly is! The more you do it the less blackheads you have. It's easy too. I bought the lavender oil from the health food store. The basil, however, I didn't have, so I did without it. It turned out fine, but I'm sure your results will be better if you do use it. Plus, the whole thing is natural! No harsh chemicals or anything! Woohoo!

Here's the link that will change your life! :)

http://www.pktaswegrow.com/2012/03/naturally-remove-those-pesky-blackheads.html

Aloha,

Maddie

P.S. Tay and Rae - I signed off with "Aloha" for you! :)

P.P.S. Happy 4th of July! Enjoy fireworks, be safe, and don't forget the true reason why we're celebrating!

Zinc supplements help acne?? WHAT?!

I was reading a book about a month and a half ago about a lady who said she loved zinc and said it helped her acne. I googled it and to see if it was true. It was!

My parents are health food store junkies, so it was not hard for me to get zinc. Once they got a bottle of it for me I started taking it every day after supper. You have to take it with food or you might get nauseous - and I don't mean just a slice of bacon. I mean a good helping.

Now I didn't have a face full of zits when I started taking the supplements. I just had a couple problem areas, namely my chin and hairline, but that was about it. It seriously helps! I was a little skeptical about it at first but after about a month I was amazed - still am! Like, all of my pimples are gone except for when one or two pop up occasionally. But that isn't very often!

Zinc works because it helps balance hormones in the body. When there is an imbalance you produce excessive oils and sebum.

Not convinced? It also:

• Regenerates new cells, making your face look cleaner and brighter
• Increases fertility
• Heals wounds (this goes along with eliminating pimples, like getting rid of acne scars)
• Decreases severity and duration of a cold (zinc also comes in lozenge form)
• Helps you lose weight faster
• Improves vision
• Ensures correct development and growth of the fetus during pregnancy
• Strengthens and boosts immune system

So it's like killing two birds with one stone! Awesome!

This is where you can get the same zinc that I got, but I also heard you can buy it at Wal-Mart. It's not too costly either.

http://www.naturessunshine.com/us/product/zinc-25-mg-150-tabs/sku-1657.aspx

Adieu,

Maddie

Create a reading list!

SO... Tay and Rae went on vacation on Friday and they are staying there for two weeks! Lucky ducks! So that leaves me to post! I haven't gotten to really sit down and post anything good yet. I'm so busy! But now I have two weeks, just me and you, together, one on one. This will give us plenty of time to get aquainted. I'm not near as entertaining as Tay and Rae, but stay with me. Okay?

Now that I've kind of told you a little about the situation at hand, I can begin what this post is about. I don't know why, but I consider accomplishments really important. I like to set goals for myself, long term and short term. And most of all, I like to achieve those goals.

Now this was one of my easiest goals. Basically, I want to read at least one book per month, even during summer. This isn't a problem because I love to read. Around March of this year I started thinking, "Wow. I've read a lot already this year." I started thinking back to what I had read in March, February and January. I started a list to remember:

2012 Books I Read

January
- The Hunger Games

February
- Catching Fire

March
- Mockingjay
- Across the Wide and Lonesome Prairie (Dear America series)
- The Help
- Water for Elephants

April
- The Notebook
- Three Weeks with my Brother
- At First Sight
- A Bend in the Road
- Versailles: A Biography of a Palace
- A Stolen Life: Jaycee Lee Dugard Memoir

May
- The Secret
- The Missing
- The Telling

June
- Eyes at the Window

(You can buy any of these books through http://www.amazon.com/.)

I started jotting all of these down in my notebook I use for writing purposes. I have several rules, though. I couldn't add a book to the list if I hadn't finished reading it yet. You don't know what will happen - you might not get to finish the whole thing. Also, when you actually do finish the book, and you've already written down that you read it (before you read the whole thing) it just sucks all of the fun of creating a list in the first place.

So I encourage you to go make your own list! Then while years pass and you keep writing down the books you've read you can flip through your little notebook and tell people, "Oh yes, I read that in May 2012." It'll come in handy. This is my first year making a reading list, so I'm excited to actually finish one whole year.

It doesn't even have to be about books. If you like to write, you can write down the titles of the new short stories you wrote in that month. If you like to draw, it could be of the titles of the paintings you made. It could be for anything, really! I love lists!

Have you ever made a list before? What for, and why? Do you find it useful, as time passes? Please comment your thoughts below.

Carpe diem,
Mad