Come Away With Me

 

It's been such a long time since I have been able to make a post.  Trying to keep up with real life work and Second Life 'work' has really limited my time for blogging.  I am hoping to be a bit more consistent than I have been the past couple of months, however.

In early July I opened a small pose shop.  I was really apprehensive about it, but as you know, I have adored poses in world for many years.  With the closing of my two favorite pose shops, I decided that I would take a stab at creating my own.  I don't get to work on poses nearly as much as I want to because of my obligations in my real life, but I am learning and will hopefully soon have a wide variety of poses available.  I have a few single packs available and my first couple pose is available exclusively at Designer Showcase for the duration of the September round.

Aren't these shoes adorable?  I think riding boots are such a cute look for this fall, and I am very excited that LaRoo has created such a pretty pair.  Both the mesh and the texture are full of detail which is always essential for a good product.  The boots are also versatile because they can be worn casually or with a more professional or 'dressed-up' look.  They are available in five colors exclusively at FaMESHed.


Credits
Clothing: [Dress] Summer Dress in Red by DRIFT @ The Dressing Room Fusion New and [Leggings] Sheer Tights in Khaki by Izzie's
Shoes: Riding Boots in Brown by LaRoo Shoes @ FaMESHed New
Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant 1 by Slink
Nail Applier: Glossy French Slink Add-On by je suis
Hair: Malia in Sable by [elikatira] New
Skin: Lulu 07 BR by Glam Affair No Longer Available
Skin Applier: Slink Hands Skin Applier America by Glam Affair
Makeup: Black Eyeliner in Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
Eyes: Ardent Eyes in Skyfall by IKON
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Poses: [1] Come With Me by Flash Friendly Poses @ Designer Showcase New and [2] Stand 011 Mirror by Flash Friendly Poses
Location: The Pixel Bean Coffeehouse

Sweet Nothing

Things I enjoy about summer... being able to sleep until noon and managing to actually make two blog posts in one week!  If only the summer could last forever.

My photos today were completely inspired by the new release by LaRoo Shoes at FaMESHed.  I always think schoolgirl whenever I see socks worn with shoes that are typically worn without socks... like heels.  The Ellie Sock Pumps are extremely adorable and very well made.  They are available in ten solid colors and four floral patterns.  A HUD containing twelve colors is also included for the socks.  FaMESHed closes at the end of the month, but I'm sure these will also be offered at LaRoo's main store afterwards.

Credits
Clothing: Montgomery in Sea by coldLogic
Shoes: Ellie Sock Pumps in Peach Floral by LaRoo Shoes @ FaMESHed New
Hands: Mesh Hands Relaxed R and Elegant L by Slink
Nail Applier: French Nails by Izzie's
Hair: Daffodil in Brown 08 by [elikatira]
Skin: Lulu 07 BR by Glam Affair @ The Arcade
Skin Applier: Slink Hands Skin Applier America by Glam Affair
Makeup: Black Eyeliner in Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
Eyes: Ardent Eyes in Skyfall by IKON
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Poses: [1] Shy 3 and [2] Pencil II 6 by aDORKable Poses
Location: Pretty Island

Weird Questions Meme

Last week's meme challenge by Strawberry Singh was so much fun and wasn't as difficult as I thought it would be; this week's is a little more mellow.  Before I get into answering Berry's "weird" questions for us, I have to say that I was really inspired last week.  With the closing of my two favorite pose stores (aDORKable Poses and Glitterati) within such a short time span, I have been quite saddened.  The discovery of photography was something that happen very early in my slife, and as any Second Life photographer knows, you need poses!  Berry's challenge last week prompted me to attempt to create my own.  I didn't expect to be very successful (I do well to "build" a box in world), but it was a lot funner than I imagined.  I had so much fun that I made a few more poses and got this crazy idea to open my own pose shop!  I'm sure mine aren't the best on the grid at the moment, but I'm having so much fun practicing and hope to have a small store up and running by July 1st!  In the meantime, SeraphimSL.com is celebrating its second birthday, and I have made a small pack of three poses plus mirror as a gift.  They are free at Seraphim's headquarters through July 19th.  You do have to be a member of the in-world -Seraphim- group with an active group tag to receive the gift.

Now, on to Berry's questions...

1. Which was the last sim you visited?  (Other than your home) The Slums

2. Does your avatar look like the real you?  I do have brown hair, blue eyes and very pale skin, but that's about where the similarities end.

3. Do you wear underwear/panties underneath your clothing when out and about on the grid?  Since I wear mesh clothing the majority of the time, I really don't see the need of wearing underwear since I'm wearing an alpha layer to cover those bits and pieces anyway.

4. If you won a million linden dollars, what would be the first thing you buy in world?  I would probably cash out and pay a few real life bills.  Lol  I do think I would eventually like to own a few sims and have rental units.

5. Have you ever bought something in SL and then realized afterwards that you had already owned it from before?  I've done this more often than I would like to admit.  It's usually happened with poses during sales.

6. Have you ever done anything in Second Life that would be considered illegal in real life?  When I was a newbie, I didn't realize you could double click clothing layers to remove one and add another.  I thought it was like real life and you had to get completely undressed first.  I would try to find trees or other objects to hide behind in public so I could change my clothes.  I was actually banned from a sim once (I was less than a week old) for public nudity.  LOL

7. If you could go on a date with any other avatar, who would it be?  My husband, Dryden Macbain.

8. Who, in your opinion, was the greatest avatar to ever slive?  I don't think I've known enough avatars to make a valid decision.

9. What is the most embarrassing thing you've ever done in world?  I went to a shop when I was a newbie to pick up a Christmas present.  You had to sit on Santa's lap to get the gift.  Let's just say that Santa would have been put on the naughty list.

10. If your avatar had a mind of its own, what do you think it would say to you?  Please clean my closet!!

Credits

• Clothing: [Top] Cary Double Tank in Stripes-Mint and [Shorts] Briony Shorts in White by erratic New
• Shoes: Ilena Sandals in White by Slink
• Feet: Women's Natural Barefeet by Slink
• Hands: Mesh Hands Relaxed R and Elegant L by Slink
• Nail Applier: French Nails by Izzie's
• Hair: Enjoy in Brown 08 by [elikatira]
• Skin: Lulu 07 BR by Glam Affair @ The Arcade
• Skin Applier: Slink Hands and Feet Skin Applier America by Glam Affair
• Makeup: Black Eyeliner in Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
• Eyes: Ardent Eyes in Skyfall by IKON
• Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
• Pose: Seraphim Turns Two 2 by Flash Friendly Poses @ Seraphim HQ Free
• Location: Seraphim HQ

Lashae or Someone Like Her

This past Monday Strawberry Singh posted her latest "Monday Meme Challenge" which was a bit more challenging than her normal.  Berry challenged her readers to recreate a movie poster inspired by the original.  I had to do a small Google search for movies beginning with the letter "L" and came across Life or Something Like It staring Angelina Jolie and Ed Burns.  I've never actually watching the movie, but I will definitely be adding it to my Netflix queue.

This blog post was honestly the most fun I've had blogging in a long time.  I didn't really want to search through thousands of poses to try and find one to match the pose in the original movie photo; that would have taken a lot of precious time that I don't have to give up at the moment.  So I instead did something that I have been wanting to do for a long time... I made my own pose!  I always thought that it would be extremely stressful and agitating, but I ended up having such a good time that I plan on doing it more often.  Who knows, perhaps some day I will gain the courage to open my own pose store.


Credits (Lashae)

• Hands: Mesh Hands Relaxed Right by Slink
• Nail Applier: French Nails by Izzie's
• Hair: Teddy in LightBlondes01 by TRUTH
• Skin: Lulu 07 BL by Glam Affair @ The Arcade
• Skin Applier: Slink Hands Skin Applier America by Glam Affair
• Makeup: Black Eyeliner in Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
• Eyes: Ardent Eyes in Skyfall by IKON
• Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
• Pose made by Lashae Karsin

Credits (Dryden)

• Clothing: Shaw in Void by FATEwear
• Hair: Aiden in Sable by Exile
• Skin: April Group Gift M in Tan by Filthy Skins (No longer available)
• Eyes: Eternal Eyes in Olive by IKON
• Pose: Pencil 1 by aDORKable Poses

Relax

Sometimes you just need a day to relax, lay on the beach and have a little fun with your friends.  I have to be honest... I've never been really close to many females (outside of my family) in my life.  Too much pettiness and drama always got in the way.  That all changed after deciding to blog with SeraphimSL two years ago (I can't believe it's already been that long!).  Of course various bloggers have come and gone over time, but it has truly given me the opportunity to meet some amazing people and develop friendships that I never imagined having.  I love the no drama attitude of the ladies (and one guy) I work with.

If you would like to see the credits for any of the ladies I'm posing with, please check out their personal blogs.  From left to right: Liane Boomhauer, Danica Saerwen, Vixen Thibedeau, me and Eshe Nakim.


My Credits

• Clothing: Ruffly Kini in Petal by Paper.Doll @ The Arcade New
• Shoes: Ilena Sandals in White by Slink
• Feet: Women's Natural Barefeet by Slink
• Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant 1M Left and Right by Slink
• Nail Applier: Classic Nails in Pastels by Izzie's
• Hair: Enjoy in Brown 08 by [elikatira] @ The Boutique
• Skin: Irene Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
• Skin Applier: Slink Hands Applier and Slink Feet Applier by Izzie's
• Makeup: [Eyeshadow] Irene Eyeshadow Smokey by Izzie's (Included with purchase of skin) and [Lips] Glossy Lip Highlights 3D by Izzie's
• Eyes: Ardent Eyes in Pewter by IKON
• Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
• Pose: Girlband by Glitterati Closing Sale

Behind the SL Me Meme

I was browsing around looking at blogposts when I came across a meme to introduce the real person behind the SL avatar.  I liked the idea and threw together a collage of my own.

Favorite Color: Deep Pink (especially with black)

Favorite Flower: Peace Rose

Favorite Animal: Giraffe (I also really love African elephants!)

Favorite Music: It honestly depends on my mood.  I really love hard rock and good metal; I emphasized good because I don't like music that is loud simply for the sake of being loud.  Good metal is like symphony played with different instruments.  Megadeth and Metallica are excellent examples.  If I need to concentrate on something, I listen to soft classical music.  Ten years ago I would never have seen myself wanting to listen to classical, but it is a technique I picked up in college when I had trouble studying for chemistry exams.  

Favorite Book: I love the entire Harry Potter series, but I think The Prisoner of Azkaban is my favorite because Harry finally has a family.

Favorite Movie: The Notebook

Favorite Television Show:  I couldn't choose just one!  My favorites are The Vampire Diaries, Dexter, Pretty Little Liars and Revenge.

Favorite Hot Drink: Hot Chocolate

Favorite Cold Drink: Water (I actually prefer for it to be at room temperature.)

Favorite Food: Chocolate!

Favorite Clothing: Loungewear

Favorite Number: If I have to choose one, it would be thirteen.  It has a reputation of being an unlucky number, but it is uncanny how many numbers I have been assigned with the number 13 in it... and nothing bad ever happened!

Favorite Letter: A for my real life first name.

Favorite Place: There is nowhere I would rather be than with my husband, and where he is is always home.  ♥

Favorite Season: Spring

Astrological Sign: Libra

Favorite Sports Team: Pittsburgh Steelers ♥

Favorite Fantasy Creature: Unicorn

Favorite Hobby: Blogging

Favorite Song: "When You Say Nothing At All" by Allison Krauss

If I Close My Eyes Forever

I don't typically take pictures with my husband's avatar.  I'm not sure why other than because (1) he never logs on, (2) he never goes shopping and (3) duo pictures take a lot of time.  Since I have a lot more time of my hands now that summer has arrived, I may spend a bit more time working with both avatars.  That of course means I will have to take Dryden shopping at some point since the world may end before he takes himself.  My husband is very much the same even when it comes to the virtual man.

The beautiful pose I'm using in this photo is a new release by !bang poses.  If you, unlike me, love taking group shots, you should really check out this designer.  Luna Jubilee has a wide variety of couple, friend and group poses.  If you are a VIP member (350L join fee) you can snag Moment at a discounted price for only 88L; this discount won't last much longer, though!  All group poses are modfiable and demos are available.

I spotted the skirt I'm wearing by C'est la vie! while browsing through flickr photos a few days ago.  To all designers who don't use flickr as a marketing tool... you are missing out on many potential buyers!  I have discovered and rediscovered quite a few shops by simply looking through photo pools.  I really love the shape of the Ribbon Belt Skirt.  I do, however, sort of miss the movement of the flexi prims when it comes to wearing skirts in Second Life.  If only we could have the wonderfulness of both types of "material" in one.  The skirt is available in six designs and a free demo is available.

Credits (Lashae)

• Clothing: [Bra] Jolie in White by Izzie's and [Skirt] Ribbon Belt Skirt in Budding Pink by C'est la vie! New
• Jewelry: Dewdrop Jewelry Set in Silver/Rose by lassitude & ennui @ The Boutique New
• Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant 1M Left and Right by Slink
• Feet: Women's Natural Barefeet by Slink
• Nail Applier: Springy Fingernails and Springy Toenails by HopScotch @ The Boutique New
• Hair: Enjoy in Brown 08 by [elikatira] @ The Boutique New
• Skin: Irene Skin Pale DB by Izzie's New
• Skin Applier: Slink Hands Applier and Slink Feet Applier by Izzie's
• Makeup: [Eyes] Irene Eyeshadow in Pink and Smokey by Izzie's (Included with purchase of skin) and [Lips] Glossy Lip Highlights 3D by Izzie's
• Eyes: Ardent Eyes in Skyfall by IKON
• Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka

Credits (Dryden)

• Clothing: [Shorts] Carter in Wasteland by FATEwear Subscriber Gift
• Hair: Aiden in Sable by Exile
• Skin: April Group Gift M in Tan by Filthy Skins (No longer available)
• Eyes: Eternal Eyes in Olive by IKON

Credits (Common)

• Furniture: [Sofa] Rue Able Loveseat by Cheeky Pea and [Table] Spring Words Coffee Table by LISP
• Decor: Rugs From the Attic by [croire] and Save a Cow, Grab the Rug by Gabrielle Swindlehurst (No longer available)
• Build: Light Box by Scarlet Creative
• Skydome: Spring by Turnip
• Pose: Moment by !bang New

Until It Sleeps

It's truly amazing how relaxing I find Second Life photography.  In days past, it was source of frustration even though I did enjoy the adventure.  I hate that I am rarely able to find the time to sit down, put an outfit together, find the perfect location and then spend a few hours playing with the pictures.  If only we didn't have to have real life jobs!  Summer is almost here for me, however; I only have one more work day before my two month vacation.

The outfit I'm wearing today if from mon tissu.  Enough cannot be said about the quality of clothing from this designing team.  I really love the Bloomsbury Trousers; the textures are vivid and the mesh is shaped very well.  These pants remind me of capris I wear in my real life... Not so much because of the vividness but because of the length.  My legs are rather short; so, capris tend to strike me pretty low.  With the ultra-short everything in Second Life lately, these are refreshing!  The trousers are available in eight patterns, and a free demo is available.

The Oversized Shirt is also from mon tissu.  This shirt seriously looks so comfortable; I wish I really did own one!  It is the perfect addition to a wardrobe because it is casual enough to be worn with clothing you would lounge in but dressy enough to fit with... well, a nicely made pair of trousers!  The shirt is available in nine patterns, and a free demo is available.

I'm really not sure why I have put off the purchase of mesh feet for so long.  A reflection of being frugal in my real life, perhaps?  With the introduction of the Avatar Enhancement system from Slink, the mesh feet were well worth the price.  Why?  No longer having to spend very precious time trying to perfectly match skin tones is, honestly, priceless.  With Slink's new mesh feet, you simply have to purchase a Slink skin applier from the skin designer of your choice (provided availability of course) and click a button to get a perfect match every time.  It couldn't get any easier.  Also, if you want a new shoe, you do not have to purchase a whole foot with the shoe anymore; Slink has shoe add-ons and is also allowing other creators to design shoes to fit Slink mesh feet.

Slink has also created an add-on for nails.  Many designers are taking advantage of this; a simple search on the Second Life Marketplace will produce hundreds of nail appliers for your hands and feet at rather reasonable prices.  Although the initial price of purchase of the hands and feet is a bit up there, it is more than worth it especially if you are a Second Life photographer, blogger or model.

Irene is the latest skin from Izzie's, and just like all her others, it is a beauty!  The skin is offered in ten skin tones and includes a modifiable shape, freckles, moles, four brow colors (with the exception of the mocha and cocoa tones), cleavage, a nail base, twelve lipsticks, eleven eyeshadows, eyeliner and a brow shape.  A free demo is available.  Also, if you would like to try the skin at a cheaper price, three special edition skins are being offered at The Dressing Room Fusion through June 6th.

It is with very deep sadness that I have to tell you about the closing of aDORKable Poses.  If you have followed by blog very long at all, you will have noticed that I use a lot of poses from this designer and with good reason.  They are extremely well made!  Adorkable Peapod's real life is very hectic, and I understand the pressure of trying to keep up with both lives all too well.  I wish her nothing buy extreme happiness and success in everything she pursues.  Of course I do hold hope that one day she will design again in-world.  Through June 9th, you can grab everything at the main store location for up to 50% off per product.  There are a few events that Adorkable has already committed to that are coming up; so, you can also expect to see her posing products for a little while longer at special venues.

Credits

• Clothing: [Top] Oversized Shirt in Black by mon tissu and [Pants] Bloomsbury Trousers in Emerald O's by mon tissu
• Shoes: Ilena Sandals in Black by Slink
• Feet: Women's Natural Barefeet by Slink
• Hair: Teddy in Browns05Fade by TRUTH
• Skin: Irene Skin Pale DB by Izzie's New
• Skin Applier: Slink Hands Applier and Slink Feet Applier by Izzie's
• Makeup: [Eyes] Irene Eyeshadow Green and Smokey by Izzie's (Included with purchase of skin) and [Lips] Glossy Lip Highlights 3D by Izzie's
• Eyes: Ardent Eyes in Skyfall by IKON
• Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
• Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant1 M Left and Right by Slink
• Nail Applier: Slink Hands and Feet Classic Nails in Pastels by Izzie's
• Poses: [1] Ella 3m by aDORKable Poses Closing Sale
• Location: Missing Mile Dark Rural Community

Every Storm Runs Out of Rain

As the days draw closer to summer break, I can't help to almost feel a sense of relief.  I am so busy in real life; I need a break... badly!  I don't like feeling stressed and overwhelmed all the time.  Another sense of relief came Friday with the news that my husband was finally hired after fourteen months of being laid off.  It isn't the job he permanently wants to be in, but it is definitely a means to an end.  God has been so good to us, and I feel so extremely blessed.

The dress I'm wearing today is an exclusive design from (Elate!) available at Bees Through the Seasons.  If you have never visited this small event, just going to see the decor will be reward enough.  It is truly one of the cutest designs I have seen... and not to mention that the participating designers are extremely talented!  The Ivy Dress is available in four colors and includes five mesh sizes and the necklace in three sizes.  I love the simplicity of the design.  It's very classy and chic; the mesh is well made and the textures are well colored and shaded.  A free demo is available for your convenience.

Izzie's released her latest skin a little over a week ago, and as with all of her other skins... the value is astounding.  Holly is available in nine skin tones and includes a modifiable body shape, freckles, moles, four brow colors (excluding the mocha skin tone), cleavage options, a nail base, twelve lipstick colors, eleven eyeshadow colors, eyeliner and a brow shape.  And... just in case you haven't been on Second Life in the past few weeks... Izzie's also now offers a skin applier for Slink hands and feet.  Matching up the skin tones is literally as easy as clicking a button.  Nail appliers are also available.


Credits
Clothing: Ivy Dress in Charcoal by (Elate!) @ Bees Through the Seasons
Shoes: Millside Flats in Winter by [elikatira] 70% Off
Jewelry: Lola Leaves Earrings in Death by {cherry} @ The Attic
Hair: Conclusion in Brown 08 by [elikatira] 70% Off
Skin: Holly Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
Makeup: [Eyeshadow] Smokey by Izzie's (Included with purchase of Holly Skin) and [Lips] Glossy Lip Highlights 3D by Izzie's
Eyes: Ardent Eyes in Skyfall by IKON
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant by Slink
Skin Applier: Slink Avatar Enhancement Hands Applier by Izzie's
Nail Applier: Slink Avatar Enhancement Classic Nails Applier by Izzie's
Poses: [1] Lean II 5v2 and [2] My Hair 8 by aDORKable Poses
Location: PLAAKA

My SL Pet Peeves Meme

This past week I came across the Meme Challenge blog posts by Strawberry Singh and thought that it would be a fun way to get back into blogging on a regular basis.  Her latest theme is SL Pet Peeves; I try not to complain too much on my blog, but I suppose that we all do need a release every now and then.

1. Designers who do not offer demos or who charge for demos.  Nothing annoys me more as a shopper than designers who do not offer demos for mesh clothing, shoes, skin, hair or poses.  Since each of these items works very differently with the many different body shapes of the second life avatar, it is really important for me to be able to "try before I buy."  I hate wasting money even if it is only a few Lindens.  More annoying than no demo is a demo that I have to pay for.  To me, asking a customer to pay for a demo suggests that the designer doesn't have much confidence in his or her product and must make Lindens wherever they are able.  In each case, you are most likely not going to get my business.

2. Designers who do not put their store name in/on their vendor or in their profiles.  As many of you know, I have been blogging for the Second Life event and sales coverage blog SeraphimSL since it began in the summer of 2011.  It has been very surprising for me to see how many designers do not include the name of their store somewhere in or on their vendor or even in their profile.  Do you not want customers to be able to locate your store?  When it takes me five plus minutes to simply try and figure out what the name of your store is, I'm more than annoyed and would never search that long as a customer.  You're losing business!

3. The ever expanding unorganized mess that is my inventory.  No matter how good my intentions are, I can never seem to be able to completely organize my inventory.  It has expanded to the point that I have almost lost hope in it ever being under control again.  I seem to accumulate items much quicker than I sort them and put them in their place.  I did purchase the Visual Inventory Organizer Wardrobe a few months back and was doing really well with photoing and sorting, but like with all other plans... it kind of fell to the wayside.  The biggest thing that annoys me about not having an organized inventory is that I really have no idea what I have.  Over the past three and a half years I have easily spent hundreds of real life dollars on items in-world... perhaps even into the thousands.  It really bothers me that I cannot find items or even remember what is there.  I suppose I should start blogging weekly installments of my Pieces of My Closet series once again to motivate myself to sort through this mess.

4. Designers who add me to their subscribers without my permission.  The first time I got a notecard from a designer I didn't recognize, I thought that perhaps I had just forgotten about the store or they had rechristened themselves.  However, the more often that it happens, the more convinced I become that some designers actually are adding residents to their subscribers.  I completely understand that designers want to advertise themselves and get information out about new designs and sales, but I feel this method is a bit tacky and unprofessional.  Flickr is a great way to connect with people in Second Life and gain potential new customers; send me a contact request... I'll be more than happy to add you!

5. Grid lines and disappearing shadows in my photographs.  I thought all my photography woes had been solved when my husband and I were finally able to purchase a high functioning gaming computer.  I was finally able to see shadows, but I came to realize that there are so many glitches with the actual software that it is almost impossible to take a photo without some type of flaw... be it the ever dreaded grid lines or complete blocks of shadows missing from the picture.  I use the Firestorm viewer and have heard that grid lines are a thing of the past with the latest official Second Life viewer, but I have yet to try it for myself.  Perhaps I should put that on my list of things to do in the near future!

Credits

Clothing: Morning Tank in Solids (Texture Change) by DRIFT

Hair: Tymber w/Roots in Toast by TRUTH @ FaMESHed

Skin: Asia Skin Light DB by Izzie's

Eyes: Ardent Eyes in Pewter by IKON Group Gift

Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka

Pose: sweet.sour pose 2 by fri.day @ Pose Fair 2013

Uninspired

I've been feeling so uninspired lately.  I have been wearing this same outfit for at least two to three weeks.  I remember when I used to feel the need to have a different outfit every day in-world.  It's not that I don't like the items that designers are putting out... I just haven't felt that into it.  I'm sure that it probably is due to a combination of more hours at real life work and never feeling like I'm really getting anywhere in life.  It's taxing on the spirit.  Hopefully with warmer weather (if it ever shows up) and more day light hours, my spirit will start picking back up and inspiration will once again be free flowing!

I really do love the shirt I'm wearing.  I picked it up at erratic during the store's 50% off moving sale.  Unfortunately, the sale is over, but based on the inventory available in the shop, you will probably see more of this designer featured on my blog in the future.  The styles are classy and very well made, and free demos are available for all mesh items.  The designer does have an in-world group that is completely free to join; members receive 30% off all new releases (when the group tag is activated) for a limited time after each release.

The skin I'm wearing was Izzie's contribution at Skin Fair 2013, which is also now over; the skin is, however, now available at the main store location.  This skin is a bit different from the designer's other skins since it is an Asian inspired skin.  New skin tones are available with this design; so, please try one of the free demos before you make a purchase.  The skin is available in six tones and includes a modifiable shape, four eyebrow colors (excluding dark tan and ginger tones), cleavage options, six lipstick tattoos, six eyeshadow tattoos and a brow shape.  Lola's Tango appliers are available as separate purchases for this skin.

I fell in love with the eyes by IKON when I first discovered them a few months ago.  The designer is participating in the current round of The Boutique by The Liaison Collaborative.  Twenty-seven colors of the newest Ardent design is available; each purchase includes five sizes.  I'm wearing the color titled Skyfall, but they are honestly all so gorgeous that this will probably not be my only purchase.  A special color of the Ardent Eyes has been placed out at the designer's main store for the in-world IKON VIP group members; the group is completely free to join, and a free pair of eyes is set out for group members only during the first week of each month.

One of my favorite events of the entire year is underway now through April 14th.  All the poses featured in this post are by the very talented aDORKable Poses, and they are only available at Pose Fair 2013.  I love this designer's poses because they are all extremely well made and mirrors of each pose are included in every pack.  aDORKable released six new pose packs as Pose Fair exclusives, and I am sure that these poses will be available in store upon the conclusion of the event.  If you are interested in seeing more poses that are available, check out my coverage of the fair at Seraphim!


Credits
Clothing: [Top] Amy Silk Blouse in Salmon by erratic and [Pants] Flare Jeans for Flats in #8 by Maitreya
Shoes: Millside Flats in Onyx by [elikatira] 70% Off
Jewelry: Amazon Necklace in Black by Bens Beauty
Hair: Sound in Brown 08 by [elikatira] 70% Off
Skin: Asia Skin Light DB by Izzie's
Makeup: [Eyeshadow] Asia Eyeshadow Smokey and Asia Eyeshadow Pink by Izzie's (Included with purchase of Asia Skin), [Eyeliner] Black Eyeliner in Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala and [Lips] Glossy Lip Highlights 3D by Izzie's
Eyes: Ardent Eyes in Skyfall MLby IKON @ The Boutique
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant R [1 and 2], Bag R [3] and Casual L by Slink
Poses: [1] Bam 1, [2] Simple 4 and [3] Simple 2m by aDORKable Poses @ Pose Fair 2013
Location: Pretty Island

Alone

I hope you have all had an amazing weekend.  This is the first time I have had a chance to make any photos for my blog in two weeks, and I must say that I have really missed it.  I have a lot of fun putting outfits together and finding the perfect spot to take a snapshot.  My husband and I spent the weekend at my mother's house last week, and unfortunately I cannot pack up my desktop and take it with me for photos.  Spending some time away from the computer is definitely nice, but I always end up missing Second Life no matter how long I've been away.  It's kind of like home... You enjoy going on vacation every now and then, but you always want to go home eventually!

I'm honestly not sure how new the top I'm wearing from Ducknipple is.  I spotted it while checking out the designer's new releases and really liked it.  If you have never visited this store, you may want to pencil it into your schedule sometime in the near future.  Almost all mesh items include a color change HUD; it's like purchasing a fatpack for the price of one regular item.  The Leather Jacket w/Top that I'm wearing includes twelve color options for the jacket and twelve color options for the top; this gives you a total of one hundred and forty-four possible color combinations.  A free demo is available.

I picked the jeans that I'm wearing up from Cracked Mirror at FaMESHed.  I really love the shape of these pants and the fact that there isn't a huge gap in the crotch which seems to be a fashion epidemic lately.  I've never had that problem with this designer, however.  The Disclaimer Skinny Jeans are available in five colors and include five mesh sizes and a modifiable alpha layer.  It's rare for me to find jeans that I really like in Second Life; so, when I do... I stock up.  The texture on these jeans is fabulous; it contains enough realism to be credible with enough artistry to properly fit in world.  Although my tush isn't photoed, the butt of jeans really makes it or breaks it for me.  The pockets have to look good and the shape (with mesh) has to be nice and round.  These jeans score on all points!  If you want to try them out for yourself, a free demo is available.

I have to admit that I haven't always been the biggest fan of hair by Exile.  His styles have always been pretty, but I thought the tips of the hair were way too pointy.  That problem, however, seems to be a thing of the past.  I spotted his new releases this weekend and instantly fell in love with Crazy in Love.  This hairstyle is so dramatic!  The volume is fantastic, the textures are beautiful and best of all... there are no pointy tips!  The hair is available in thirteen color packs, and a free demo is available.

A new skin was recently released by Izzie's titled Harlow.  I love the soft but classy and chic look of this skin.  Harlow is available in eight skin tones and includes a modifiable body shape, freckles options, moles options, four brow colors (excluding the mocha skin tone), cleavage options, a nail base, twelve lipstick colors, twelve eyeshadow colors and a brow shape.  I particularly like the eyeshadows included with this skin; they are very shiny and shimmery.  A free demo is available.


Credits
Clothing: [Top] Leather Jacket w/Top by Ducknipple and [Pants] Disclaimer Skinny Jeans in Faded Light by Cracked Mirror @ FaMESHed
Shoes: Millside Flats in Taupe by [elikatira]
Jewelry: Lena Earrings by Donna Flora No longer available.
Hair: Crazy in Love in Drift by Exile
Skin: Harlow Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
Makeup: [Eyeshadow] Harlow Eyeshadow Silver Teal by Izzie's (Included with purchase of Harlow Skin), [Lips] Glossy Lip Highlights 3D by Izzie's and [Eyeliner] Black Eyeliner in Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
Eyes: Lucid Eyes in Optimism by IKON
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant R And Relax L by Slink
Poses: [1] Honey 2 and [2] Legs 7m by aDORKable Poses
Location: Hazardous

Enjoy the Silence

A new round of FaMESHed started this past week which is where I found almost all of the items in the outfit I'm wearing.  I really like this "sales" event because there are a lot of good quality designers who participate.  It's not really a sales event, however, since all the items are priced as they normally would be.  That of course is completely fine since designers do deserve to be compensated for the amount of time and effort they put into their products.

The top I'm wearing is from Tee*fy, and you really do get a lot of value for your Lindens with this item.  There are twelve total color options available with nine out of the twelve including three different designs in the purchase: a striped version, a polka dot version and a solid version.  It will be difficult for me to not add a few more colors to my inventory... especially the pastels.  Five sizes of each shirt and a modifiable alpha layer are included in your purchase.  A free demo is available.

I picked the pants I'm wearing up from FANATIK, and I had a really difficult time deciding between black and pink.  The girl in me always wants to buy pink, but I went with my husband's suggestion and snagged the black.  They do, after all, go with more things.  The leather texture on these pants is very pretty.  Eight total colors are available and each contains five modifiable sizes with a modifiable alpha layer.  A free demo is available.

The skin I'm wearing is one of the three skin available by Glam Affair at the current round of Collabor88 which only has a few days left.  I was really disappointed when the designer decided to leave The Dressing Room; I probably own almost every skin that was included in the TDR collections.  When Aida popped up at Collabor88 I was, needless to say, ecstatic.  Glam Affair truly does produce some of the highest quality skins in all of Second Life.  If you have ever purchased a high quality skin, you know what an amazing deal 188L for a single skin is.  Three brow colors are included in your purchase, and a free demo is available.

I am deeply in love with the eyes I'm wearing from IKON, and the best thing about them is that they are completely free.  Each month IKON sets out a pair of never before released eyes for one week free to the stores VIP group members (free to join).  Theses Lucid eyes are the first pair in a new line coming from IKON.  The eyes are only available through February 7th; so, don't put off visiting too long!

The shoes by LaRoo at FaMESHed may just be my favorite design by the team yet.  The Lizzy T-Strap Pumps are very feminine and girly.  Ten colors are available; each color features a solid black sole and heel with the body of the shoe featuring the various colors.  A skin and nail color HUD are included with your purchase; instructions for the HUD and the RGB values for popular skins are available on LaRoo's website.  A free demo is available.

If any of you have every wondered where I find the locations I use in my photos, it isn't from me endlessly searching the entire grid before I find the perfect location.  I actually browse the Beautiful Landscapes of Second Life flick group for interesting looking SIMs.  Most people who post their pictures there include slurls to the location.  The blogger that led me to the beautiful Kalki SIM is the very talented Danni Ravinelli.  I always appreciate fellow bloggers who don't mind posting their secrets for others to find and use.


Credits
Clothing: [Top] Olga Sweatshirt in Stripe Grey by Tee*fy @ FaMESHed and [Pants] Leather Leggings in Black by FANATIK @ FaMESHed
Shoes: Lizzy T-Strap Pumps in Pink by LaRoo Shoes @ FaMESHed
Jewelry: Uva Earrings by miel Group Gift
Hair: Josie w/Roots in Mocha by TRUTH
Skin: Renee - Trending 02 D by Glam Affair @ Collabor88
Makeup: Black Eyeliner in Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
Eyes: Lucid Eyes in Optimism by IKON Group Gift
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Hands: Mesh Hands Gesture L and Mouse R by Slink
Poses: [1] Model 252, [2] Model 228 and [3] Model 285 by Glitterati
Location: Kalki

A Lesson in Patience

Today has definitely been a lesson in patience.  I typically take my pictures in Second Life on my desktop and edit them on my laptop; I do it this way since my desktop, which is a gaming computer, is a lot faster and can take better pictures while my laptop is the only computer I have that has PhotoShop.  I have known that my laptop was having issues for a while, but today it finally just gave out.  Well, not completely out, but I tried to turn it on for three hours very unsuccessfully.  After a bit of research, I think the CMOS battery has went out on my laptop; it is a pretty common problem with the version I have and is a really cheap fix.  The problem... you basically have to dismantle the entire computer just to replace the battery.  I cannot see myself doing that.

I was left trying to figure out how to use GIMP to edit my photos.  There are some aspects of it that I do like better than PhotoShop; for example, I think the healing tool has clearer results and is easier to use in GIMP.  The IWarp tool is not quite as smooth at the liquify feature in PhotoShop, however.  I'm sure that with practice I will be able to use this program as well as I am able to use PhotoShop (which isn't really saying much).  The extra time to look up tutorials really pushed my nerves.  You would have to have the patience of Job to not be irritated by having to take it all in at once.

Now... on to what I'm wearing!  The top I have on is a new item from Auxiliary available at The Dressing Room Fusion.  The design is extremely adorable, and the three colors it comes is are very pretty.  A free demo is available for you to try; it really annoys me when designers don't have demos out for mesh items.  Each piece fits differently... some not well at all depending on your shape; I really hate wasting money and really appreciate the designers who offer free demos (1L demos are a whole different rant lol).  The straps don't really fit my avatar well (they stand up a bit higher than my shoulders), but I knew that I wanted to wear a long hairstyle; so, that really wasn't much of an issue.  Overall, it's a very fabulous piece for only 70L!

The leggings I "matched" up with the top are actually a modifiable pair of textured white leggings a designer friend of mine passed me long ago.  They are a staple of my inventory when I cannot find pants that match well enough with a top.  Perhaps Auxiliary will release some colored pants in the future to match for the people who don't like tinting!

The newest release from LaRoo Shoes are absolutely amazing!  The Sparta Pumps are the first release by the design team to include a foot base.  I know that some people are a little intimidated when it comes to tinting.  I typically don't aim for a "perfect" match because if I did I would be here for days. Close is normally good enough for me since colors can change with windlights and shadows; I think I did pretty well with my first try.  Tinting the skin with the included HUD is a little different than with others; you first choose the skin closest to your skin color and then adjust the RGB values instead of simply inputting the value of your skin.  I really love the window that pops up for you to enter the codes instead of having thirty seconds to type them into local chat.  LaRoo does offer detailed information on how to operate the color change HUD and the RGB values of well know skin designers on their website.  The values for the skin I'm wearing were not listed, but I'm sure the list will grow with time!  The shoes are available in twelve colors, and a free demo is available for your convenience.

Speaking of skins, I'm sporting the newest skin release from Izzie's titled Ginerva.  The skin is available in eight tones and includes a modifiable shape, freckles option, moles option, four brow colors (with the exception of the mocha tone which only contains one), cleavage options, a nail base, twelve lipsticks, eleven eyeshadows, eyeliner, blush and a brow shape.  As with all Izzie's skins, a free demo is available.


Credits
Clothing: [Top] Mullet Top in Cocoa and Turquoise by Auxiliary at The Dressing Room Fusion and [Leggings] White Cotton Leggings by Siss Boom (Not available)
Shoes: Sparta Pumps in Tan by LaRoo Shoes
Jewelry: Uva Necklace by miel Group Gift
Hair: Rebel in Mocha w/Roots by TRUTH
Skin: Ginvera Skin Pale DB by Izzie's
Makeup: Black Eyeliner in Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
Eyes: Eternal Eyes in Glass by IKON
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant 1 by Slink
Poses: [1] Elegant 3 and [2] Elegant 1 by aDORKable Poses
Location: Innsmouth

Helix

The idea for this outfit was completely inspired by the new shoes from LaRoo that are currently being offered at FaMESHed.  They reminded me of the combat boots my sister used to wear when we were teenagers.  Of course she never wore them with anything resembling what someone in the military would wear; she definitely dressed them up.

I found the undershit I'm wearing while shopping at House of Fox for the shorts that I am also wearing.  I love the illusion of modest sexiness that it gives with the high neckline and semi-see through texture.  Everything is technically covered, but you can see just enough to want to see more.

The jacket that I paired up with the outfit is a newish piece by DIRAM.  The dramatic shape really caught my attention as well as the nine flamboyant textures it is offered in.  The only thing that I don't really like about the this particular texture for the jacket is that the stripes do not line up down the sides under the armpit.  It's a pet peeve I've had for years even with real life clothing.  Perhaps that is why I no longer wear stripes in my real life.  A free demo is available, and your purchase includes five mesh sizes and an alpha layer.

As mentioned previously, the Liberty Boots are part of the current collection available at FaMESHed.  I continue to be increasingly impressed with each new release from LaRoo.  The detail that is obtainable with mesh designs make a three-dimensional world presented on a two-dimensional screen appear so much more real.  LaRoo also had a new release this past week with their first skin and foot shoe; I hope to get a post up with those in the coming week!  The Liberty Boots are offered in ten colors, include three mesh sizes and an alpha layer; a free demo is available.


Credits
Clothing: [Jacket] Blake Blazer in Rayure by DIRAM, [Undershirt] Vintage Sheer Top by House of Fox, [Shorts] Tailored Shorts in Black by House of Fox and [Tights] Sheer Tights in Black Less Sheer by Izzie's
Shoes: Liberty Boots in Black by LaRoo Shoes @ FaMESHed
Jewelry: Ebru Earrings by Bens Beauty
Hair: Escape in Brown 08 by [elikatira]
Skin: Jadis Natural A TRD #24 by Glam Affair (This makeup is no longer available)
Makeup: Black Eyeliner in Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
Eyes: Eternal Eyes in Glass by IKON
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant 1 by Slink
Poses: [1] Odyssey 5 and [2] SidePony 3 by aDORKable Poses
Location: DangerInEvolution LEA27

Sparkle

I had planned to publish these pictures as a special New Year's post, but as it often happens, real life simply got in the way!  Going back to work after a week and a half off was overly tiring.  I absolutely love my job, but it can really take a lot of me sometimes.

The dress I'm wearing is from a store that has been around for about a year, titled One Store by Ju Sands, but the store is completely new to me which is always a fun experience.  The dress does show a little more skin than what I am used to; let's just say that I was feeling a bit festive when I was getting dressed.  I really love the texture of the dress; the sequins are more elongated than typical which gives the dress a reptilian feel.  One Store currently exists solely on the SL Marketplace.  Six colors of the 2013 Dress are available and each includes four sizes and an alpha layer.  There is no demo specifically for the 2013 Dress, but there is a demo for the Rock Dress which is the same style.

I picked up the jewelry I paired with this dress at Donna Flora.  I have always loved how dramatic her pieces are.  They really add a little bit of flair to any outfit.  Both the necklace and the earrings are included in the purchase, and the flower is color change with eight preset colors.  The only thing that I have never liked about Donna Flora jewelry is that the permissions are no copy/transfer.  I would much rather prefer it to be the other way around since I do have a tendency to lose things.  Nonetheless, her designs are amazing!


Credits
Clothing: 2013 Dress in Green by One Store
Jewelry: Fabiola Set by Donna Flora
Hair: Escape in Brown 08 by [elikatira]
Skin: Jadis Natural A TDR #24 by Glam Affair (This makeup is no longer available)
Makeup: Black Eyeliner Gentle Fume by Acid & Mala
Eyes: Eternal Eyes in Glass by IKON
Lashes: 2011 Lashes Curl by LeLutka
Hands: Mesh Hands Elegant 1 by Slink
Poses: [1] Model 21 and [2] Model 90 by Glitterati
Background texture by JoesSistah