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Fashion and Fun after Fifty

Archive for May, 2015

The Drawer of Death

We all have one…yours may be in the shape of a box, a bag, an envelope or even a basket, but we all have a

Drawer of Death

Death Drawer Avi

Sunrise to Sunset

                           Gone too soon

Date of Birth

Date of Death

                           Suffered too long

obituaries

In memory of

Who they leave behind

Pictures and Poems

                           Never said “goodbye”

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Family and friends

We all have a drawer

                          Death drawer

RIP Renee’

                         Added to the drawer

Rest in Peace Renee

I’ll always love and miss you!

                         Added to the death drawer

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Where is your Drawer of Death?


How to Save Money and Have Fun Traveling

How to Save Money and Have Fun Traveling

It can sometimes seem impossible to take a vacation and stay within a budget at the same time. While this can be difficult, there are many ways to go about doing it. Some of these methods are common sense, while others are often overlooked by the general public.

If you like many others have your heart set on taking a vacation, but you do not have a lot of money to do it, you should take a look at the tips listed below to see if any of them apply to you and your situation.  For example, you can save money on hotels in Amsterdam by doing some searches online for discounts. Here is how to save money and have fun traveling.

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1. The time you book a vacation matters

This may surprise most people. If you decide to book your vacation on one of the many travel websites that are online, the time and day of the week that you choose to make your booking will often come into play. While this is not the case for all travel websites, this can drastically impact the price on some of them.

Therefore, you should test out different websites by attempting to make a booking at different times of the week. See if the price varies by a large amount. You will be able to save money by doing this.

2. Have some flexibility when making your travel schedule

In the travel business, the price you pay for a plane ticket will usually depend on the day you plan on departing. If you depart on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, this will be more expensive than the rest of the week. This also applies to when you are returning home.

Therefore, you should take special care to arrange your travel schedule so that all of your flights are on days that have lower prices. If you schedule your flights far enough in advance, this should not be a problem for you.

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3. Frequent flyer miles

If you fly, you will accumulate frequent flyer miles. However, in order to do this, you will need to be signed up to a frequent flyer program with a specific airline. After you have been flying for a while, you will be able to redeem your frequent flyer miles for discounts on future tickets. All of the airlines have different rules regarding their frequent flyer programs. You should check with each airline to see which one has the most favorable conditions.

4. Unlimited travel passes

There are rail, train and subway companies which offer unlimited travel passes over periods of two and three days. If you have a lot of traveling to do in a very limited amount of time, the price of one of these unlimited travel passes could be worth it. You should take some time and add up the price of buying separate tickets for each part of your journey. Then you will need to compare this price to the cost of the unlimited travel passes for you and all of the people you are traveling with.

Costa Rica

5. Travel to places with favorable exchange rates

If money is a concern for you, the exchange rate of the country you are visiting should factor into your decision about where to go. You can save a lot by going to a country where you get more for your money.  

Have you started planning a getaway summer vacation or will it be a staycation this year?

Disclosure: I received compensation to post this article which was contributed by Fiona Moriarty of Hipmunk, the most comprehensive travel search website allowing you to find the best deals on anything from flights and hotels to train rides and Homeaway rentals.

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You Choose the Shoes ~ Season 2 ~ Week 9

You Choose the Shoes ~ Season 2 ~ Week 9

Hello friends and welcome to the last #YCTS in May, where in the heck did the month go? Time is flying but I did get a change to go through the shoes in my bedroom closet. Maybe next weekend I’ll get to the ones in the guest bedroom.

I donated several pairs of winter shoes and boots that I hadn’t even looked at in years and am pretty sure I will do the same with the spring/summer styles.

This week it’s Black Patent Leather Sandals versus Red Studded sandals.

YCTS Week 9 Avi

Yesterday’s post was about wearing sleeveless after 50 and so you can see that I don’t have a problem doing so.

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I can’t remember where I purchased this top but the skirt is Boscov’s and the clutch is Rainbow Shops.

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The black patent leather sandals are one of my favorites by Jessica Simpson.

You Choose the Shoes 9

The red sandals I think were purchased at Rugged Wearhouse. I added another pop of red with the bracelet from Old Navy.  Check out the big butterfly ring from Jewelrymax.net

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Okay, so which pair of shoes would you have chosen for this outfit?

You Choose the Shoes 9 You Choose the Shoes 9

I will be skipping the next two Thursdays as I prepare for and then be on vacation!

You Choose the Shoes 9

There weren’t many votes from last week and it was almost a tie, but the winners were the pumps.

WINNER WEEK 8 Download DDD Google Play app

I hope your day is as beautiful as you are!

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Sleeveless after Fifty? Heck Yeah it’s Hot!

I can’t believe this topic is still under discussion, but it’s that time of year so here we go again…

Should a woman wear sleeveless clothing after the age of 50?  

Heck yeah it’s Hot!

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I am over the age of 50, as a matter of fact I will be 54 in September, am still menopausal and sweat like a pig most mornings just getting dressed…actually pigs don’t have sweat glands, but that’s besides the point.

I have and will continue to be sleeveless in the summer no matter my age because I want to and it’s comfortable. Hey, if you have flabby arms so what, I think Wendy Williams called them “bingo wings”, be proud of them or do something about them…lift weights using canned peaches or hit the bag like First Lady Michelle Obama.

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No matter your age or size, be comfortable with who you are because in the end, it’s not about what you looked like on the outside, it’s how you felt on the inside…stay cool and do you boo boo!  

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Dress and Sunnies – Goodwill Bracelet – Old Navy Sandals – Rainbow Shop – Purse – Avon

I hope your day is as beautiful as you are.

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The Perfect Gifts for a Quilter

The Perfect Gifts for a Quilter {Guest Post}

Author: Alyssa Craig

 

If you are lucky, there is someone in your life who loves to quilt and is always working on their latest quilting project. If you are even luckier, than you have been a recipient of the result of their hours of hard work. Now it is time to shower this loved one with presents. Whether it be their birthday, Mother’s Day, an anniversary, Christmas, or simply a way to show you care, there are many gifts you can give your favorite quilter. Here are some ideas to get you started, no matter what your budget allows.

 

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For a quick gift, an early jump start on your stocking stuffers, or a smaller gift to accompany another one, here are some suggestions that will be easier on your wallet:

Pin Cushion

Pin Cushion – These come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, beyond the classic tomato, that you can choose to fit your quilter’s personality.

 

Sewing Needle Case – These cases also come with many designs and fun quotes on them.

 

Wrist Pin Cushion – For easy convenience during projects when they need to stay close to the fabric.

 

Seam Ripper Necklace – Created from an actual seam ripper, these necklaces will be endearing to your quilter. You might even consider getting one made out of a seam ripper of theirs (just make sure it is not their favorite!).

 

Necklace or bracelet charm – Help start a new tradition of accumulating small charms for a necklace or charm bracelet.

 

Fun Signs – There are many adorable signs for their sewing room such as “She who dies with the most fabric wins” and “ Any day spent sewing is a good day”.

 

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If you have a little more available to spend on this quilter, you may consider some of these fun gifts to add to their already growing quilting collection.

 

Small Ironing Board – A small ironing board with short legs and minimal length will fit well next to their sewing machine, making the process more convenient.

 

Sewing Phone Case – So they can show off their passion for sewing and quilting everywhere they go.

 

Portable Cutting and Pressing Station – For those who may frequently help others with their quilting projects.

 

Rotating Cutting Mat – A must have for getting those different shapes cut just right.

 

Quilted Tote Bag – For an extra personal touch, this is a great gift you can even make yourself!

Two Quilts On A Wood Rack

Quilt Display Board – Not all quilts are made to be used, especially those made out of materials that have special significance. A display board for these special quilts is a great way to show your quilter you value their hard work.

 

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Should you be lucky enough to have an unlimited amount of funds to shower your quilter with all the gifts their heart could desire, take a look at these suggestions.

 

Perfect Stitch Machine – This add-on machine is designed to help give their next quilt a professional grade stitch. It is compatible with many popular sewing machine brands and is comfortable for your quilter. You can also set up preferences to be saved for different users.

 

Fabric – One of the recurring costs of quilting is of course the fabric. Your friend or loved one would love a new selection of fabric for their next quilt. You can even take them with you and have them select their own material.

Group Of Women Making Quilt Together

Quilting Class – You may also consider buying them a class or set of classes to learn new techniques or improve on the skills they already have. There are websites that provide online lessons or you might check with your local quilting store or community center.

 

LED Sewing Machine Light Kit – All of that sewing can be hard on your quilter’s eyes, so get them a light kit to help them better see the work they are doing.

 

Divided Basket – Either create or purchase a large basket with dividers and pockets on the outside, for your quilter to store all of their supplies in one handy location.

 

Regardless of the occasion or the flexibility of your budget, there are many options to show your favorite quilter that you care. They will love these personalized gifts most because they show you care about something that is important to them.

Guest Post Disclaimer

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When it’s Time to Travel ~ Don’t Be Overweight at the Gate

 

Don’t be overweight at the gate!

Hello friends, I hope all is well in your world.  Have you made summer vacation plans?  Will you be flying to your vacation destination?  Now that almost all majors airlines are charging a fee for checked baggage, you have to be extra careful with just how much you do pack. 

Checking a bag will cost you as little as $25.00 but if it’s overweight it can increase in costs for as much $50 or more which can really bite into your budget. 

Eat Smart Luggage Scale

Thanks to Eat Smart, I had an opportunity to try out the Precision Voyager Digital Luggage Scale to ensure that our bags are not overweight at the gate next month. The Precision Voyager Digital Luggage Scale has a secure buckle and strap that adjusts to fit all sized luggage handles.  It’s easy to set and use and the measurements are made in lbs or you can change to kgs.  A CR2032-3 volt battery is included and the display is easy to read and the scale is easy to use:

Luggage Scale Review 006

 

Secure clip buckle around luggage handle

Grab the scale with two hands to lift the luggage

Wait for the beep

Read the display

Check Amazon.com to order your own Eat Smart Precision Voyager Digital Luggage Scale today so when it’s time to travel you won’t be overweight at the gate.

Luggage Scale Review 002

 I hope your day is as beautiful as you are.

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Books to Read on Summer Vacation

MEMORIAL DAY HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY !

 

I am sure that by now you realize that I am getting over-the-top excited about our family vacation next month to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic… hey can you blame me, it has been almost 7 years!  

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Anywho, I have plans on doing absolutely nothing but eating, drinking, relaxing, reading and watching the sun rise and set.  But of course as a blogger I will be taking lots of pictures and drafting posts in between the naps on the beach and drinks on the balcony.  

Make sure to follow me on Instagram and YouTube so you can enjoy some of the views. www.instagram.com/ablake48 and www.youtube.com/amblake01 beach vacation

Reading eBooks on the Beach I have tons of magazines at home some dating back to 2014, but I plan on taking my HP Tablet Stream to read eBooks either on the beach or poolside.  I am not sure what to download so if you have a few suggestions, please leave me a comment and no…please don’t suggest “50 Shades of Grey”.  

I recently discovered Open Culture, a website with the best FREE cultural & educational media on the web. It features free courses, movies, audio books, eBooks & thought-provoking daily posts, so check it out and let me know if you find something good.


I hope your day is as beautiful as you are!

Disclosure:  Amazon Affiliate attached, if you make a purchase I get a few cents.

 

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May Offers and Deals

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Art.com Coupons: 25% Off

Unless you are an art expert, adding artwork to your home can be frustrating and expensive. How do you know what art is right for your décor style? Art.com takes the confusion out of decorating your home, by providing tools to help find the perfect fit for your home and style. Visit Art.com and save on a variety of art styles including: contemporary, abstract, vintage, photography and more! Enjoy their current promo by visiting Art.com to receive FREE SHIPPING on all orders (including art, prints, posters, fine art decorative and more). Shop now! This offer is valid 5/18 through 5/25!

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Cooking.com Coupons: 15% Off

Has Top Chef inspired you to get back into the kitchen? Cooking.com has your covered! Offering discounted rates on your favorite brands including: Kitchen Aid, Cuisinart, Calphalon, Le Creuset, Vitamix and more, you will save on all of the supplies you need at Cooking.com! Cooking.com carries bakeware, appliances, tools and bbq supplies all at promotional prices that cannot be beaten. Visit Cooking.com today to save 15% OFF all orders of $100+ AND FREE SHIPPING. This offer ends 8/1/15, so shop now!

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JCPenney Coupons: 15% Off

As one of the nation’s oldest and most trusted retailers, you are certain to find whatever you and your family are looking for this season and JC Penny. With over 1100 stores nationwide, and online shopping at JCP.com, access to their wide variety of styles and brands is at your fingertips! JCP.com offers savings on clothing for the family, homegoods and more! Shop at JCP.com now and SAVE 15% OFF your purchase! (This offer excludes Sephora, Gift Cards, Services, Service Plans, current orders/prior purchases and combination with any other discount.)

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Amazon Coupons: Only $61.49

Feeling nostalgic for the TV programs of your youth? Amazon.com is here to provide great prices on all of your favorite current and past television series. With a wide selection of media that you will not find anywhere else online, Amazon is your place to save big on DVD collections. Amazon.com is currently offering Full House: The Complete Series Collection for a discounted promotional price of $61.49. Hurry and purchase this incredible collection online at Amazon.com today! Offer ends on 5/31/15!

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Belk Coupons: Free Shipping

This summer stock up on all of your beauty needs online at Belk.com! Offering FREE SHIPPING on cosmetics through 8/24/15 with no minimum, Belk will save you time and money, so that you can have more fun in the sun! Purchase summer essentials like Kiehl’s s Super Fluid UV Defense, Lancome’s Flash Bronzer, Estee Lauder’s Bronze Goddess and more! Belk carries all of the top beauty and fragrance brands of the moment, and this promotional deal makes them even better. Shop now and get your beauty routine summer-ready today!

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Children’s Place Coupons: 5% Off

Summer is here, and that means it is time to stock up on new clothing for your kids. Keep them cool and sun-safe this summer with clothing from The Children’s Place. The Children’s Place is your one-stop-shop for summer clothing essentials! With great savings on swimwear, shorts and Americana-themed ensembles, you are certain to find everything that you need at The Children’s Place. Shop in store or online at ChildrensPlace.com for great discounts today. PLACE card members SAVE 5% OFF every purchase! Hurry and stock up on summer essentials, this offer ends on 6/19/15!

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Crabtree and Evelyn Coupons: Buy 2, Get 2 Free

Spring is here, and it is time to pamper yourself with body care products from Crabtree and Evelyn. Bring warm weather into your home with spring-inspired items and fragrances like the Fringe collection candles and the Verbena & Lavender gift sets. Save on luxurious home and body products today, with Crabtree and Evelyn’s current promotional deal. Purchase any two 500 mL products full price ($28 each) and choose TWO FREE 500 mL products! Hurry and stock up on warm weather scents and beauty items at Crabtree-evelyn.com! This discount ends on 6/19/15!

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Dermstore Coupons: $10 Off $50

Stock up on warm-weather supplies today at Dermstore.com. DermStore is your easy online shop for anything beauty and skin related. Offering promotions and discounted prices, you will save on whatever you are looking for. DermStore carries top brands in sunscreen and sunless tanner, like St. Tropez, Tan Towel, Avene and Tarte. Signup for the DermStore newsletter at Dermstore.com and get $10 OFF any $50+ purchase + FREE SAMPLES and FREE 1-3 DAY SHIPPING. This promotion is valid for new email address signup and new customers only. Some brand exclusions may apply.

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Disney Store Coupons: Free Shipping

If you are looking for perfect gift, the Disney Store is the place for you! The magic of Disney products, is certain to make whoever you are shopping for happy. With online retail at Disneystore.com, access to these products has never been easier. Carrying products from the most current Disney productions, like Frozen, to the timeless classics like Beauty and the Beast, Disneystore.com has it all. Shop online today and receive FREE SHIPPING on your entire order of $75+ with promo code. Some restrictions apply. Pomo ends 1/21/16.

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Expedia Coupons: $50 Off

School is almost out, and it is time to plan that family vacation! With Expedia you are guaranteed a hassle-free, easy booking experience with the best savings online! Visit Expedia.com to browse the best deals and discounts on flights, hotels and vacation packages at exotic destinations around the world. Save now when you book a Hawaii hotel ($250 minimum stay) and receive $50 off the booking! Hurry and get this amazing deal for you and your family. The offer ends 5/31/15.

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Footsmart Coupons: 10% Off

Are you sick and tired of aching, sore feet? Foot Smart is dedicated to providing comfortable shoes and solutions for all of your foot woes! Offering online retail, shop online at FootSmart.com to browse their variety of brands and styles for every foot problem you can imagine. Shop at FootSmart.com today and save with 10% OFF spring sandals and shoes on brands like Easy Spirit, Naturalizer, Hush Puppies and more! Save with $3.99 FLAT SHIPPING on orders of $75+. Visit FootSmart.com today to save on the comfort you deserve!

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Gander Mountain Coupons: $5 Off $50

Ready for an outdoor adventure, but unsure what supplies you will need? Gander Mountain, specializing in outdoor gear and apparel, is your place to save on outdoor supplies! You are in good hands shopping with Gander Mountain. Their wide selection with unbeatable prices on top brands in apparel, footwear and camping equipment, as well as archery, hunting and fishing supplies, guarantees you will find what you came for. Shop now at GanderMountain.com and get a discount of $5 OFF every $50 you spend! Save up to $40. This offer ends 12/31/17.

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Gift Tree Coupons: $10 Off $50

Graduation and wedding season are upon us! What better way to show you care, than with a specialty gift from Gift Tree! GiftTree.com specializes in helping you find the perfect gift for every occasion including birthdays, anniversaries, graduations and more. They offer savings on gift baskets, flower bouquets, balloons and other specialty items for every special event. Shop now and cash in on GiftTree.com’s current promotion of $10 OFF your purchase of $50 or more. Hurry! This offer expires on 5/31/15!

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Hammacher Schlemmer Coupons: Free Shipping

One of the oldest retailers in the nation, Hammacher Schlemmer is your source for savings on. . . . everything! Carrying anything your mind can imagine including: apparel, toys, sporting goods, auto accessories, electronics and more, you will find something you need and want at Hammacher.com! Save now by shopping at Hammacher.com and receive promotional FREE STANDART SHIPPING on U.S. orders of $99+. Hurry and shop Hammacher Schlemmer’s extensive selection of anything you can imagine! This offer expires on 6/30/15!

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Harry and David Coupons: 15% Off

Harry and David is your destination for quality gift baskets as well as gourmet and specialty food items! With gift baskets for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations and more, Harry and David has your gifting needs covered. Hosting a holiday event? Harry and David offers all of the gourmet food and drinks you will need! Shop in store or online at HarryandDavid.com to save 15% OFF your order of $75 or more with promo coupon code! Hurry and stock up on gifts and supplies for holidays and entertainment this season! Offer expires 6/22/15.

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eBags Coupons: 15% Off

No matter what kind of bag you are shopping for, Ebags.com has your covered! With savings on handbags, backpacks, luggage, business carriers and more, Ebags.com is your online destination whatever type of bag you may need! Ebags.com carries top styles and bag brands including: The Sak, Kate Spade, Fossil, Nike, Jansport and more! Save by visiting Ebags.com today and sign up for promotional emails to receive a 15% discount and free shipping on your order of $49+! Shop now! Savings are a your fingertips!

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MidAtlantic Wine and Food Festival – Gospel Brunch

Hello friends, I hope all is well in your world.  On Sunday, hubby and I had an opportunity to attend the Gospel Brunch at the World Café Live at the Queen. It was one of the premier food and wine events held this year by the MidAtlantic Wine and Food Festival

The MidAtlantic Wine and Food Festival (#MAWFF) presented by Bank of America celebrates excellence in food, wine, spirits and beer.  Sunday was the last day of the 4-day festival which included 35 events at 40+ venues in 4 states, with over 60 chefs, and 23 wineries from 6 continents. 

#mawff Gospel Brunch

If you read my previous post from the #MAWFF kick off event at The Atrium then you know that this was an awesome way to spend a beautiful Sunday in Delaware.  The walk around Gospel Brunch had several stations of savory and tasty treats as well as a wonderful array of wines, spirits and beers from around the world, my favorite was the Brooklyn Summer brew.

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This jam packed event was made even more lively with The Combined Choir of Calvary Baptist Church.  They turned up the heat with soulful Gospel music that had the audience enthusiastically clapping and singing along.  Check out my YouTube channel to see one of their soul stirring selections.

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No matter how many times I tried to wait in line for a Mimosa I was just never patient enough to get one.  I was however, able to taste foods from Big Fish Grill, Classic Cake, Domaine Hudson, Stone Balloon Ale House, Penn Bistro and a “Painkiller” shot from BVITourism.com.

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Special thank you and belated birthday wishes to Ajit Mathew George, Festival Founder

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Hubby and I are definitely looking forward to the next MidAtlantic Wine & Food Festival.

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I hope your day is as beautiful as you are!

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You Choose the Shoes ~ Season 2 ~ Week 8

Hello friends and welcome to week 8 of “You Choose the Shoes”

 

Last week I actually did try to rearrange my closet, pulling out the winter wear in exchange for the Spring and Summer shoes, but I didn’t get too far.  Hopefully, on Monday, Memorial Day I will get it all done.  

 

Before we begin, I would like to ask for your prayers as we say goodbye and prepare to bury yet another cousin on Saturday who lost her battle with breast cancer #ihatecancer   

Our cousin Renee’ was a beautiful, kind, loving and spiritual woman and I know she is looking over us all.  I am going to dedicate a separate post to her once all is said in done, because I want to honor her husband and children as well.

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This week’s contenders are Patent Leather wedges – versus- Patent Leather pumps

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I remember wearing, and as a matter of fact I still have a pair of my patent leather Easter shoes from childhood.  They were the squeakiest shoes ever made but when you shined them with Vaseline…watch out world…you were as sharp as a tack!

 

This is one of my favorite dresses, I purchased it for Tayair’s High School graduation in 2010.  The purse is a recent purchase from Walmart #WearWalmart  Speaking of Walmart, did you see my spread on their website…I’m in my “big girl panties” – click the picture in the sidebar to be taken to the advertisement and video.  I am still in amazement of it all!

YCTS Week 8

YCTS Week 8

Okay, back to the shoes, the patent leather wedges were thrifted from Goodwill and the pumps are Mossimo via Target.  As you can see, hubby was at it again…

hubby takes my pics

The bracelet was purchased from a Clair’s in the mall and the necklace was a gift from hubby.

YCTS Week 8

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So which pair works better with this outfit?

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Thank you all for voting last week…and the winners were….the granny booties!

WINNER WEEK 7

 

Don’t forget to check out my new blog – Blogging with Blake and Youtube channel…oh and I also have an app, so download it from Google Play for some great coupons, rewards and savings!  

I hope your day is as beautiful as you are!

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