Fangirl Report: MAN OF THE WOODS Concert Review & Fashion Update

Back during #BLOGTOBER I did a post titled Fall Fashion: Concert Style where I showed my outfit inspiration for Justin Timberlake’s MAN OF THE WOODS tour.

album artwork

I was supposed to see him, back in October but he had to reschedule due to bruised vocal chords. So I just went recently on January 31st. Which just so happened to be Justin’s 38th Birthday so that was a fun treat! Not only did we get an amazing show, but we got to spend his birthday with him. This time we got to sing to him for a change. 😉

20190131_102210 (2)

My concert morning prep…

My best friend and I got there a little before the opening act ended so we got to hear him a bit. His name is Franceso Yates, and he was definitely good vibes. Not to mention his curls are cool and he was rocking this cool silver sparkly bomber jacket. 3 years ago he lent his vocals to SUGAR (2015), yes ya’ll probably know Suga Suga by Baby Bash and Frankie J (2003) but Yates makes it work too! His voice is damn good!

 

Set List

Filthy

Midnight Summer Jam

Lovestoned/I think she knows interlude

Sexyback

Man of the woods

Higher Higher

Senorita

Suit & Tie

My Love

Cry Me a River

Mirrors

*Happy Birthday Sing Along*

Drink You Away

Until The End Of Time

Morning Light

What Goes Around…Comes Around

Say Something

Montana

Summer Love

Rock Your Body

Supplies

Can’t Stop The Feeling

I felt like this concert has been quite a long time coming. In fact we just passed the year mark on of when MAN OF THE WOODS was released and when Justin performed the Superbowl Half time show. I had wanted to see JT a while back when he was first in the U.S., but I just couldn’t swing the date, and so when he came back I was on a mission to get tickets. So my best friend and I got t-shirts, I had my outfit all ready, and my nails strategically painted to match his album cover colors (as you can see in the Concert Style Blogtober post). But then it was rescheduled for January, so it was another 3 months added to the waiting game. Needless to say, because of all the holiday craziness, it went by quick. Of course the date landed on the COLDEST day of the year, my winter coat’s zipper broke just before I left the house, (so I had to wear a less warm coat but the one I actually bought for the concert to match my outfit lol) and my best friend was battling the start of a cold and her purse strap broke coming out of the Uber on the way into MSG. So we fought some stupid little inconveniences along the way, but it was COMPLETELY worth it! #CHEERSTOINSANLEYEXPENSIVEUBERSANDCABS It felt so good to be there in that arena with him. It’s been a while. It felt like it was all meant to be. I love you JT, you were worth the wait! 

JUSTIN WAS INCREDIBLE! His talent never ceases to amaze me. He came back from that vocal rest like a boss. He can still sing, dance, and own any stage! And he is extremely good at making it so that he can work the entire stage and say hi to all sides. Our seats were pretty good, probably the closest, I’ve seen him so far. Although for his stadium tour with Jay Z, we had really good seats too! One of these days I hope to meet him, maybe even swing some VIP tickets, but I just can’t fathom those prices. Besides I like the option of sitting occasionally! Lol. #GRANNY #BIGPURSEDONTCARE

Justin did all his usual hits, but played a good amount of his new stuff too. It’s cool how his songs are so different live, like you feel every instrument. I love how he did his work on the NI Maschine for “Say Something,” and he just kind of like created this whole unique sound. It was really cool to see. 

IMG_20190201_124852_825

The whole show was visually stunning. The fog rolling in, the grass coming up during certain scenes to add that woodsy feel. The lights, the screens that projected Justin for all to see, but at  times told a story through it’s stunning rain visuals during “Cry Me A River,” and trees and the sun shining during his Man Of The Woods songs. It was all so right. 

20190131_220756

There were so many highlights, so many moments where he joked with the crowd, so many great live versions of songs that never get old. That clap and sing along in Mirrors, never gets old. And Can’t Stop The Feeling was so amazing live and such a great, feel good song to end on. However, I think if I HAD to pick, my highlight had to be when he sang “Until the End of Time.” There was a campfire set up. A real fire pit, with wooden seats around it, as his dancers re-enacted a campfire scene as he played the soft sweet song. This song is one of my favorites live, because this is the cell phone song. The lights sway back and forth, and you try to hit his notes in the sing along part of the song. Such a moment. 

20190131_230003

The only downside was that I know I had seen an earlier version of a setlist that included “Let The Groove Get In” and “Flannel.” Two of which are my favorites. So I was a little bummed when he didn’t play them. “Soulmate” would have been cool, that song has become a favorite of mine too! But we did have a whole Birthday sing a long, so they probably had to take out a few songs to allow the time for that. I thought his Birthday show would have been like crazy! Like maybe a special guest, or something. I also thought he would do the whole fake out end and then come back out, but he didn’t. I’m so used to that! Lol. But when the lights come on you know it’s over. I guess I just wasn’t ready to leave.

You know what else I noticed, he didn’t have many breaks. He didn’t worry about changing outfits constantly either. He made a few changes, but they were super quick and kept in theme with his laid back woodsy vibe. He is the man of the woods, is he not? He didn’t talk too much with the crowd like I’ve seen him do in the past, didn’t really chat about the songs or give some heart felt speech about what the slow jams were about or why he wrote them. He used to do this a while back. Instead he let the music talk. Which I understood. He has 5 studio albums under his belt and only about a 2 hour slot to perform! He can’t do EVERYTHING! Even so, he is a true talent. A class act. He is so good. When I got home I mentioned how it’s a pain to go to a concert on a week day, and my mom said to me, “well this is it, right? I mean you can’t keep going to his concerts.”  And I said, “Um, what? Yes I can! And I will.”  I may be getting older, he may be getting older, but as he said before he took his shot before he performed “Drink You Away,” he “Ain’t done yet!” And as long as he’s singing, I’ll keep listening! Concerts can be transcendent. They can be such amazing experiences, especially when you are that much of a fan of the artist. Especially when you get to go with your best friend. I’ve grown up listening to Justin. So no, I’m not quitting  now. Looking out at that audience it was an incredible mix of men, women, of all ages, and even some little kids. I was proud to see how far he’s come and how many generations his music has touched. He may not have chatted constantly but he was very adorable when he thanked us for spending his birthday with him, “best birthday ever,” he said just before leaving the stage. So what it all comes down to, is that the concert was cool, classic, and absolutely amazing and we got to spend his Birthday with him, and that’s the coolest thing ever. Happy Birthday JT! 

What I Wore: 

20190131_191417 (2)

My Target JT T-shirt- Black tank underneath

^ tried to link, but I don’t see it available anymore 😦 

A Flannel because well the song and the woods! lol

Jeans

Tan Boots

I had on pretty simple jewelry- a brown snakeskin cuff, two gold thin rings, big gold hoops, a black tattoo choker, and two gold necklaces for a layered effect. I also painted my nails a natural brown from Essie called- “Clothing Optional.”

20190205_20181320190205_20191520190205_201918

I basically went for a chill, laid back, woodsy/90’s vibe. LOL. My makeup was subtle warm tans and blush tones, and my hair I kept simple in a low bun and some curls to frame my face.

20190131_212208 Flannel by JT

Right behind my left pocket
That is where you’ll feel my soul
It’s been with me many winters
It will keep you warm
Ooh, here’s my flannel
The character’s in the way you wear it (the way you wear it)
It takes your shape while you keep it on (all you gotta do is keep it on)
May we live for many winters
Keepin’ each other warm
And may we live for many winters
Keepin’ each other warm

Read the full lyrics HERE

Listen to the full song HERE

And yes I did treat myself to some concert souvenirs- a tee and a concert program. They were selling the t-shirt I couldn’t find anymore on his merch store website, so I was excited. At first I wasn’t going to buy anything because between the ticket and the cabs,  I was already spending so much $$$! But then I realized I have a concert tee from every show I’ve seen of his. And I’m a major graphic tee wearing girl, so I had to. So I picked this one (it has another image of him and man of the woods written on the back, with all the tour locations.) And I splurged on a program too, because I have never bought one of his programs before. So I figured I should own at least one. I mean I am a self- proclaimed JT fan girl, right? Hey I don’t do this often, you got to live a little, right? 😉 The t-shirt was $40. The program was $25, in case any other fangirls or boys are wondering about prices! 

Well there you have it, another JT Fangirl report from yours truly. 

Until next time.

*All images are my own except JT’s album art picture at the beginning of the post.*

-<3-

 

 

Gentleman

Turning to the prompts again…because sometimes you need a little inspiration…

Describe what the term “gentleman” means to you. 

screen-4[1]

I think a Gentleman is a man who does more than just holds open your door for you, or who gives you his jacket when your cold. It’s more than flowers and jewelry. It’s remembering your anniversary. It’s planning date nights. A gentleman is someone who listens to you, consoles you, supports you, lifts you up when your down. He also understands that you are your own person, a person who can take care of herself, but who still wants to take care of you from time to time because he loves you.

Women are strong and independent. But that doesn’t mean men can’t help them. I know I do that a lot. I’m like no I got it. I have a difficult time asking for help. I like to know that I can do things on my own. I like to know that I can take care of myself. So I guess in my opinion, a Gentleman is someone who understands that but never gives up on being there for his significant other, treating her with respect, and treasuring her. Wanting to spend his time with her, doing things she likes to do with her even if he’s not a super fan of it. And I think in return, a woman can do the same for a man.

In a world where millennials seem to have been given this horrid name, I do still believe there are some men out there who are true gentleman. And it extends beyond just his romantic relationship. He is loyal, honorable, he is kind, caring, he is respectful of human kind as a whole. 

No one is perfect. But trying your best to be the best version of yourself, never goes out of style. 

This “prompt”-ed…this… 😉 

 

-<3-

*I do not take credit for the image/music/video used.*

2018 Highlights- Year in Review

This past year, I actually didn’t end up using a memory jar. It kind of became more of a flower vase and I forgot about it. But as usual, instagram and this blog were definitely helpful in my yearly reflection.

Here are my 2018 Highlights

(in no particular order)

Justin Timberlake released his new Album Man of the Woods and I bought tickets to see him in October. (However as you may know from my fangirl report the show was postponed due to bruised vocal chords. It was rescheduled for January 31st (his birthday) so let’s hope it sticks and I get to start my 2019 off with my fav babe!) He also released a summer single too- Soulmate. It’s fire!

IMG_20181023_090958_503 (1)

MLW turned 5 years old! This blog has been with me through so many ups and downs. I have taken month(s) long hiatus’ and have gone MIA many times, and I’m sure it will happen this year too. But I always come back! And it means a lot to me to have this outlet. To have “a safe place for the written word.” We also got our own domain this year-michelleleighwrites.com
happy 5th

I took up Jewelry Making in order to teach a class at work and I realized I do really enjoy it. For some one who loves accessories and loves jewelry, it’s cool to have pieces that I created myself. When people say that’s so pretty, I can say “Thanks, I made it!” I’m hoping this year to get my own Jewelry supplies and make a hobby out of it!

 

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

We started many new family traditions, now that we have a 6th person at our  usual table of five. My baby niece turned one and she’s learning so many new things, it’s so amazing and so exciting to watch her grow. Holidays are sweeter now that she’s here and we were able to celebrate many of her first holidays this year too. And as usual so many other special family moments with our extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, etc. I also got to take my mom to see Summer (the donna summer’s musical) and help out with a mother’s day photoshoot for my sister in law, my brother is a photographer and he wanted me to shoot some behind the scenes footage for him, so that he could make a montage video.) 

Jack & Elizabeth’s Wedding on When Calls The Heart. This show is so magical. (Except SPOILER ALERT the actor playing Jack decided to leave and so they had to kill off his character just shortly after the characters got married. So Elizabeth was left a pregnant window. It still breaks my heart so much. But I’ve been watching reruns on Netflix of earlier seasons of their courtship and I can’t help but love this show. It is so full of strength and hope and grace. And these women are fierce as they come.) Despite the heartache, the wedding was absolutely beautiful and when it comes to TV viewing parties and themes, I can be pretty “extra.” I learned to sew in order to make my own custom WCTH tee and had a cup of tea and some pie in honor of the special occasion. I still don’t have the Hallmark channel so I totally bugged my brother and watched at his house.  The show did the wedding right, they even had a invitation that you can rsvp to, pick your meal choice and request a song. Hallmark still has a full wedding album up too. Such beautiful pictures, Elizabeth looked gorgeous and their vows were breathtaking. 

90[1]

 

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

^In other tv related news (because you know me, I’m a TV fan girl) I fell in love with the show The Resident on FOX and the Netflix film- To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (it’s getting a sequel!) 
To all the boys

Dk17DB7U0AA4nrI.jpg-large [www.imagesplitter.net][1]

I had a lot good times with friends (fell in love with a new tea spot, tried hot pot for the first time, had a few brunch meals, tried frose, and braved karaoke, etc)-work friends, high school friends, old friends, new friends! Caught up with some middle school friends I haven’t seen in a while. We actually were able to get in two visits this year, so we are doing really well, considering we are all always so busy- one is a mom and one is always traveling, so I’m so happy we made it work! My best friend got married and I was one of her maid of honors, so we got to do all the things-the shower, the bachelorette party (which was epic thanks to me and my co maid of honor), the rehearsal, and the wedding. It was all magical! And they are a beautiful couple.

 

*NSYNC got their star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, on “It’s Gonna Be May” Day (April 30th) and it was broadcasted live for all to watch. I totally did, and I may or may not have bought a few *NSYNC merch tees, they are being sold in stores like target, and spencer’s/hot topic, but also on *NSYNC’s official site! The guys were also on Ellen!

So I was kind of in fangirl heaven!

I hosted a 90’s theme Girls Night In for my best friend, as our own little bestie send off before her wedding. It was A BLAST. I love nostalgia and I LOVE the 90’s. Butterfly clips, chokers, and blue eyeshadow, OH MY! 😉 

90's party

My family participated in our first Alzheimer’s walk in honor of my Grandma who passed away in February of 2017. We all had t-shirts and it was a beautiful day, honoring someone we all really miss and love. We raised well over what our goal was! Thanks to my Aunt and Uncle who organized it all, and to all who donated. Our hearts are full! 

I did BLOGTOBER– blogged the entire month of October! My fall was so full of all the Halloween, Pumpkin things!

sneak peek day 2

I participated in my first ever #NaNoWriMo– National Novel Writing Month (November) October and November were very busy for me, it made me really proud to be able to write so consistently and meet my goals. 

crest-05e1a637392425b4d5225780797e5a76[1]

I continued writing my short story series- Move that I started at the end of 2017, but still have to continue and finish it this year. I also started another short story series that has yet to be finished and posted- tentatively called Crazy Stalker Love. (STAY TUNED! for all of the stories to come!)
MOVE poster

Crazy Stalker Love Sneak Peek-

I had a list of over 60 great memories for this past year, so I guess it was a really good one. So I can’t complain. But in the interest of time, I chose a few. Thanks for the memories 2018, I am very blessed. I look forward to all the magic ahead in 2019.

Happy New Year friends!

May all your hopes and dreams come true!

Stay Tuned for much more content this year.

So many stories to tell!

-<3-

#BLOGTOBER Day 28- Purple/Green/Black Rocker Chic Witch Costume Idea

This year is my niece’s first time Trick -or- Treating so I am going to be going with her. So naturally, me always down for a reason to dress up- after many laps around Spirit Halloween I walked out with a witch hat and a spider ring. 

I figured I just needed a few accent pieces, because I knew I had enough black clothing at home, and I knew I could make something creative with fun makeup and nail art.

So the creative wheels started and I decided on a Purple/Green/Black color theme. When I think of witches I think of those three colors. Their tights are usually purple and green stripped, their faces green. So I figured why not make it a funky witch theme.

Let’s start with the basics…

The Black Base- I wanted this to be more of a Rocker Chic Witch Look

So we have to have the leather jacket, the black pants, and the combat boots. These two clothing pieces have been so well worn! I feel like I go for them ALL THE TIME. Every girl has those one pair of black pants that she feels like she can conquer the world in. #BootyLookGoodPants  😉 

20181028_170125

I will probably just wear a black long sleeve or black t-shirt. Depending on the weather. If I had more time I would have searched for a purple & green stripped tee. But all black with color accents is always super cool, if you ask me. So that’s the way I’m choosing to rock this glam rocker witch look. 

20181024_003204

The trusty old combat boots, I’ve had for years.

The Witch Hat & Spider Ring [Sprit Halloween] 

Hat- $14.99 

Ring- $7.99 

^ I tried to link these items for you guys, in case you wanted to pick them up for your own witch look for next year, but I couldn’t find them on the site. But they had a bunch others, click and browse the site!

20181028_170038

They had a huge witch section- makeup, jewelry, brooms, costumes. I’m not a fan of costume Halloween makeup. I have sensitive skin, so I know it’ll probably mess with my face. Besides, everything was so expensive. As it is I walked out spending about $25 just for a hat and a ring!

But I really do like this hat, its got these really cool black feathers that glisten a green/purple hue, and it has a veil that hangs over the face with a bunch of spiders all over it. The spider ring was an impulse buy near the register. I was looking for an extravagant spider ring but I didn’t see any in the witch section, then I found this one on the way out and loved it. 

So with these two pieces in mind, I set out to researching the fun stuff Makeup & Nail Ideas. I wanted a really fun glam witch look. No full green face for me! 😉 

Makeup Inspirations- [via YouTube Tutorials] 

Links Below: 

GREEN & PURPLE LOOK FULL FACE

PURPLE LOOK 

^I really like the ombre lip look

LIME GREEN & PURPLE LOOK

GREEN SPIDER WEB EYE LOOK

Nail Art Inspirations– [via Google & YouTube] 

 

Screenshot_20181026-094949_Google

Makeup & Nail polish I bought to complete this look-

20181028_165949

20181028_165943

NICKAK NEW YORK lipsticks in Violet & Lime BRUCCI Nail polish in Sylvia’s Pretty In Purple & Stephanie Go Lime 

Accessories I had, that I plan to use to spruce up this witch look-

 

 

20181028_165931

I have some lace gloves, some various bracelet and choker necklace options. Some Silver hoops, some black sunglasses. I also have a silver bracelet/ring piece with a moon on it which I thought was kinda witchy so we’ll see if I want to rock that. And not sure yet if I want to throw on this spider web scarf too.  

20181028_170003

This ring has the colors in it, but I may not want to wear any other rings, because that spider ring can be a stand alone piece! LOL. We shall see how it all gets pulled together. I usually end up making something work! 😀 

Hair-

I was also going to curl my hair and add in some purple and green hair extensions, but I couldn’t find the right color shades, and I didn’t really want to buy any sprays. So I decided that I’m going to just use the eyeshadow I have and just dust some on like hair chalk. Or if that doesn’t work, I can just use real sidewalk chalk. Its basically the same crap. HAHA. I’ll throw some hairspray to hold the color and boom!

COSTUME NOTES:

So what I usually end up doing is gathering inspiration and then I put my own spin on things and make up my own look. 

I’m sure if you didn’t want to rock a full witch hat you can also find a cute little hat clip, hat headband, or create a paper hat on your own. YouTube is full of tons of tutorials.

I chose pants, because I wanted to be comfortable, but you could totally do a black skirt or dress and find the striped tights, or a pair of fishnets. It’s totally customizable. Do your thang!

Honestly you can be really creative with a witch costume, you can even do all black, or red and black, or orange and black. Basically as long as you have a witch “hat” on, everyone will know what you are! 

Follow michelleleighwrites_blog on instagram for a full look costume reveal on Halloween! 

Happy Trick-or-Treating!

 

*All images are my own except the screenshots from the makeup and nail inspirations.* 

*I do not take credit for any videos used.* 

-<3-

 

 

#BLOGTOBER Day 26- “Head Over Heels” Commentary

This was a short horror script I wrote back in 2015. Unfortunately like many of my scripts, it was never filmed. However, being that it is Halloween and I am a writer, I thought it’d be fun to at least share the script with you. You can read it in full form in yesterday’s BLOGTOBER post HERE

Which brings us to today’s post…

giphy[1] (2)CLICK FOR SOUND EFFECT. 

MY WRITER’S COMMENTARY

Head over heels commentary 1head over heels commentary 2

*FYI Check this Rom Com out, it’s so damn good!
MV5BMTEzMDJjMGYtZGMwMC00N2I5LWIwYzItYjlmMGI3NjZkNzZmXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyNjU0NTI0Nw@@._V1_UY268_CR9,0,182,268_AL_[1]

 

*I do not take credit for any images/gifs/movie posters/movie trailers used.*

-<3-

 

ALSO FAN GIRL REPORT SIDENOTE: Due to bruised vocal chords Justin Timberlake has had to postpone a few of his tour dates. My Wednesday night show, sadly was one of them. I was all set, rushed home from work, was going to eat, change and head out, when I got an email and voicemail from Ticketmaster. And then I saw J.T.’s instagram post. I missed it earlier, because I was working. But what can you do, at least I saw it before I got ready to leave my house. I have to admit, I was bummed. I was so pumped to see him live. It’s been a while!

I had a show rescheduled, back when he first toured for the Justified album. My first time ever seeing him live, solo. There was a crazy stage accident and people were injured and equipment was damaged and they had to cancel it. I was so upset. I was probably about 12 and I was hysterical crying when I saw it on the news.

My older cousin was supposed to take me, so she was like I will take you wherever you want to go, we can do whatever you want that day and you can bring whoever you want. She’s the best! So I wanted to go to Build-a-bear (Is 12 too old for that? Probably but whatever, til this day that is the only Build-a-bear I have. This coming from a girl who played with Barbies til she was like 14, Lol #DONTJUDGE!) I brought my best friend and we all went to the mall, and it was a great day! 

Needless to say, we made it to the concert…and it was freakin’ AMAZING!

And this one will be too. Being that ya know I am having to #ADULT these days, I totally understood the need for JT to have to postpone. He needs to take care of himself first. Health and Safety first always. The new date is going to be on his 38th Birthday- January 31st, so I am super stoked for that! Rest Up JT, see you in January! I just can’t wait! Ah #FANGIRLIFE!

So Stay Tuned my fellow fangirls, full concert outfit and concert review COMING IN THE NEXT YEAR, haha. Book Review too! 😀

#BLOGTOBER Day 24- Fall Fashion: Concert Style

Justin Timberlake’s style for his MAN OF THE WOODS show is very laid back. So for my concert look tonight, I wanted to mirror that same vibe. Comfortable, yet stylish. 

As you can see he wears a lot of , flannel, leather, denim, black. There are some earthy tones and outdoorsy pieces, so camouflage is a pattern that pops up a lot too. And I’ve seen he mostly rocks sneakers or boots. He also mixes patterns at times too. But the usual basis for the outfit is a graphic tee. 

jt wardrobe
JT tees 2
JT tees

In fact he has a clothing collection with the brand Levi, called Fresh Leaves

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=3&v=AmRVbdsyBbY

And a sneaker deal with Air Jordan…these are sold in limited locations. 

*JT concert merch is available HERE!

Because I wasn’t a fan of any of the few t-shirts left on his website, I opted to find my own shirt and to put together my own outfit using simple pieces I already had in my closet. #GOTTASAVEMONEY #ADULTING I am hoping they are selling some concert tees there though. I really wanted one online, but it’s no longer up. 😦

I found a JT shirt with the album graphic on it in Target for cheap and ordered one each for me and my best friend. 

So the concert tee is the main focus of the outfit.

GUEST_778a6246-f8a0-47e1-a3bb-b70d9cbbbe57[1]

I painted my nails- black, white and orange- the colors of the album cover, which is the graphic featured on the t-shirt. 

IGNORE MY MESSY NAILS IN THE FOLLOWING SHOTS…I took all of this before I cleaned them up. 😉

20181024_004906
20181024_004924
20181024_004938
20181024_005006
20181024_003239
20181024_003259

Currently I am torn between two outfit ideas. Either some black pants or jeans, a red/yellow/white flannel, and a leather jacket or oversized denim jacket over top the tee and the flannel. I opted to rock either my combat boots or my white & black Michael Jackson boots. Depending which outfit I end up choosing.

I’m also keeping my jewelry pretty simple- some gold hoops (not sure which size I’m rocking just yet), two gold chains for a layered affect, 4 plain gold rings, and a cuff like bracelet. With a yellow purse too, to tie in the colors of the flannel. 

For my makeup I’m planning to do a mix of fall colors, a lot of golds/oranges/reds.

Similar to this makeup/hair look…

20181006_180415_1538863484810

Except I’m planning to swap out the red lip color for something in the more brown/bronze/peach family. Either I will pick one of the lip colors below, or do some type of mix of colors.

20181024_004526

20181024_004203

20181024_004342
20181024_004324
20181024_004300
20181024_004215

And as for my hair, I’m going to be adding  some random loose waves with a curling wand, using products like mousse, dry shampoo, and hairspray. 


20181024_004725

There you have it, my JT MAN OF THE WOODS outfit inspo. I am ready to dance and sing my ass off! I will reveal the full look I chose tomorrow! 

Tonight. Fangirl mode. ON.

Stay Tuned for a full Concert Review! COMING SOON!

 

*I do not take credit for any Justin Timberlake images or videos used.*

*All other images are my own.*

-<3-

 

 

 

 

#BLOGTOBER Day 18- Fall Mix [Middle School/High School Edition]

Back in the early-mid 2000s, to say that my music taste was very different, would be an understatement. Enter Punk Pop. It was a HUGE deal and me and my friends were all in on it! I was into that emo, rock band, head nodding stuff. And our girl Avril Lavigne, she came just when we needed her most. She made ties and stud bracelets a thing! She showed us it was cool to dress different and not always be “super girly” just because we are girls.  

Avril

Avril Lavigne

For some reason, recently this Fall, those old songs are resurfacing and they just give off some Fall vibes. They have that weird emo/ almost eerie feeling to them, so hey I thought why not dive into my old CD collection and share some middle school/ high school favorites with you. [Some were in 2005 which kind of leaked into my high school years, same with some from 2001 that leaked into my middle school years. For instance  bands like Jimmy Eat World, and Foo Fighters were around a while before I started to really love them. I have older cousins and an older brother so I would hear their music, but then I actually began to listen to it myself. Big thanks to #OTH, #TheOC #ACinderellaStory] 😉

 

 

 

Middle/High School Emo Fall Mix [62 Songs]

Let Go-Avril Lavigne [Full Album, I can’t choose!] [2002]

The Middle-Jimmy Eat World [2001]

Sweetness- Jimmy Eat World [2001]

Hear You Me -Jimmy Eat World [2001]

If You Don’t, Don’t -Jimmy Eat World [2001]

Sugar, We’re Goin Down- Fall Out Boy [2005]

Dance, Dance- Fall Out Boy [2005]

A Little Less Sixteen Candles, A Little More “Touch Me”-Fall out Boy [2005]

This Ain’t A Scene, It’s An Arms Race- Fall Out Boy [2007]

Thnks Fr Th Mmrs- Fall Out Boy [2007]

Helena- My Chemical Romance [2004]

I’m Not Okay (I Promise)- My Chemical Romance [2004]

To The End- My Chemical Romance [2004]

The Ghost of You- My Chemical Romance [2004]

I Write Sins Not Tragedies- Panic! At The Disco [2005]

Nails For Breakfast, Tacks For Snacks- Panic! At The Disco [2005]

Lying Is The Most Fun A Girl Can Have Without Taking Her Clothes Off – Panic! At The Disco [2005]

But It’s Better If You Do- Panic! At The Disco [2005]

How To Save A Life- The Fray [Full Album, I can’t choose!] [2005] *These guys are my fav, I’ve seen them in concert a few times, and actually met them at The Today Show Concert Series. Super chill guys! 😀 

Niki FM- Hawthorne Heights [2004]

^ there is a really cool tribute by The String Quartet

Hotel Paper-Michelle Branch [Full Album, I can’t choose!] [2002]

Can’t Hold Us Down-Christina Aguilera [2002]

Fighter-Christina Aguilera [2002]

Underappreciated -Christina Aguilera [2002]

Impossible-Christina Aguilera [2002]

Beautiful-Christina Aguilera [2002]

The Voice Within-Christina Aguilera [2002]

Wake Me Up When September Ends- Green Day [2005]

Ocean Avenue- Yellowcard [2003]

Only One- Yellowcard [2003]

Mr. Brightside- The Killers [2004] *Shout out to my best friend, this band was her fav!

Move Along- All American Rejects [2005]

Dirty Little Secret- All American Rejects [2005]

It Ends Tonight- All American Rejects [2005]

Bring Me To Life- Evanescence [2003]

My Immortal- Evanescence [2003]

Numb- Linkin Park [2003]

In The End- Linkin Park [2003]

Seven Nation Army- The White Stripes [2003]

Anthem-Good Charlotte [2002]

Speed Of Sound- Coldplay [2005]

Fix You- Coldplay [2005]

The Scientist- Coldplay [2002]

Clocks- Coldplay [2002]

Viva La Vida- Coldplay [2008]

Perfect- Simple Plan [2002]

Addicted- Simple Plan [2002]

Welcome To My Life- Simple Plan [2004]

I’d Do Anything- Simple Plan [2002]

In Too Deep- Sum 41 [2001]

Fat Lip- Sum 41 [2001]

Best Of You- Foo Fighters [2005] *Oh man my brother and I were obsessed with this song, #REPLAYBUTTON

The Sound Of Settling- Death Cab For Cutie [2003] *Shout out to the best friend again! She introduced me to this band. 

A Lack Of Color- Death Cab For Cutie [2003]

I Will Follow You Into The Dark- Death Cab For Cutie [2005]

Lightness- Death Cab For Cutie [2003]

Boston- Augustana [2005]

Hide And Seek- Imogen Heap [2005]

Snow Patrol- Eyes Open [Full Album, I can’t choose!] [2006] 

Misery Business-Paramore [2007]

CrushCrushCrush- Paramore [2007]

That’s What You Get- Paramore [2007]

 

So I was going to link each song, but I just don’t have the patience for that! Haha, hey at least now I put all these artists/emo bands back on your radar. Go crazy! Feel that nostalgia. You’re Welcome. 😉

All songs available on Spotify, YouTube, etc, and I’m sure hidden in your old CD collection. 

Side Note:

In 2014 I found a post similar to this, where I chat about old I-pod jams– below is a funny excerpt from it…

That awkward moment when you realize you used to be a really big My Chemical Romance fan and wore a lot of black eyeliner, and bought every shirt with a skull on it…wait was I goth that one point in my life? haha #letyourfreakflagflyyy

To be clear I wouldn’t wear the eyeliner to school, and that phase came more when I was in high school…Little Michelle…my 15th birthday party, channeling my…dare I say it…Peyton Sawyer (you know Haley is my girl!) vibes with them curls, black jacket & boots, denim skirt, and skull shirt. Oh and hey OC mix tape! 😉

full[1]

 

 

It’s so crazy to see how my taste in music varies. If you notice the vibes of The Fray, Coldplay, and Snow Patrol are a little less emo than say Fall Out Boy, and Panic! At The Disco. I would say my taste gravitates more toward the softer rock now. But emo basically stands for emotional, so really if any song inflicts a feeling, who’s to say that one song or artist can’t fit more than one genre. I love music, sure maybe I lost touch with a lot of these bands, you grow up, your life changes, your taste changes. But anytime I hear any of these songs, the vibes are still so good. My music taste is all over the place, and I don’t mind. 

*All images are my own, except the Avril Lavigne Image.*

Were you into Emo as a pre-teen/teen?

Did I miss any of your favorites?

-<3-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

#BLOGTOBER Day 15- Jewelry Making Tutorial- Memory Wire Bracelet

I love jewelry. I love accessorizing. I think it’s such a creative form of expression. With just a few key pieces of jewelry you can transform any outfit. I have draws full of jewelry and then because of the nature of my job, I was able to take on a new hobby of jewelry making. In order to educate others, I had to do a bit of research. Shout out to YouTube!

FINISHED WIRE BRACELET

(Due to the wire type, and the style of the bracelet, you can have different looks, just two rows, or many rows- creating a multi bangle bracelet look with, essentially just the one bracelet that wraps around your wrist several times. The wire also allows for it to be adjusted to your wrist, basically a one size fits all bracelet.)

I made this bracelet back in March or April I think. I made it with earthy colors- a mix of glass and clay beads- some with tribal designs on them. I made it like so, because it fits my personal style. However, I just feel like it has such fall vibes to it, and I wear it now, so I thought I’d share it. (You can customize this bracelet to your style and use any style beads, or colors/patterns/designs.)

20180313_173613

I followed this Jewellers Academy tutorial on YouTube.

^Memory Wire Bracelet Tutorial starts @ the 9:48 mark. However, I suggest watching Parts 1 & 2 of this Beginner’s series because it will teach you all about the tools and how to use them for specific techniques- such as cutting memory wire and looping- both used in this project.

jewelry making mem wire

All supplies were purchased from blick.com

^Just look under jewelry making.

CLOSE UP SHOTS

20180313_17404420180313_174046
20180313_17404920180313_174058

20180313_174052

20180313_174024

I didn’t really have any specific pattern. I just knew I wanted an earthy color scheme, and a junky multi bracelet look. So I just added beads randomly, trying to create a unique, bohemian look.

I’ve made various jewelry pieces by following these tutorials (and various others). I’ve made earrings, bracelets, necklaces, chokers, pins, etc. I still have yet to conquer any rings, but hopefully soon. It’s super fun, and it’s even cooler to be wearing something and be able to say, I made this. And they can be great gift ideas too. If you package it nicely and add a little “made with love” sticker…and Voila!

 

^ Here is a pair of earrings I made and packaged for my Mom as part of her

Mother’s Day gift. 

 

 

If you make any jewelry pieces of your own, let me know in the comments below!

*I do not take credit for the videos used as tutorials.*

*All photos are my own.*

-<3-

Happy Birthday Joy! (April 2, 2018)

Bethany Joy Lenz is one of my biggest inspirations. Not because she’s perfect, we all know that no one is perfect. But because she is real and she owns it. Her talent in acting, painting, fashion and above all else singing knows no bounds. She is a fierce female. 

The Fashion

Image result for bethany joy lenz

Image result for bethany joy lenz

Image result for bethany joy lenz fashion

Related image

Related image

Image result for bethany joy lenz fashion

Image result for bethany joy lenz fashion

Related image

Image result for bethany joy lenz fashion

Related image

Image result for bethany joy lenz hallmark

Image result for bethany joy lenz hallmark

Related image

Image result for bethany joy lenz photoshoot

Image result for bethany joy lenz photoshoot

Image result for bethany joy lenz photoshoot

Related image

Image result for bethany joy lenz photoshoot tulle

Image result for bethany joy lenz photoshoot tulle

Image result for bethany joy lenz entertainment

Image result for bethany joy lenz silk dress

Image result for bethany joy lenz black silk dress

 

Acting

 

Singing

 

Painting (follow her art instagram @thelenzgallery)

Image result for joy lenz painting

Image result for joy lenz painting

Image result for bethany joy lenz painting

Happy Birthday Joy!

* I do not take credit for any images used.*

-<3-

 

 

When Calls the Heart Chat & Style Files

Hallmark series When Calls the Heart is such a wholesome gem. I fell in love with it last year when I binge watched it and got caught up before the return of it’s 4th Season. 

Now it’s in it’s 5th season, and I unfortunately no longer get the Hallmark channel. And I miss it so much! Not only do I miss the fun seasonal movie themes but I miss this Sunday night series terribly! I try to keep up with it through social media, but it’s just not the same.  

I haven’t found a free, reliable way to watch online either. 😦

All I know is there was a Christmas Special which I missed, and then the first 3 episodes have aired. Last season we left off with Jack proposing to Elizabeth who obviously said yes! But then he had to leave to go fight in a war. Leaving us #Hearties heartbroken. 

So Erin Krakow’s Elizabeth Thatcher was left waiting for quite a long time. Waiting in worry. 

Daniel Lissing who plays the role of Constable Jack Thornton, was absent from many of the ending episodes of the 4th season. And from what I’ve learned online, he wasn’t in the first few episodes of the 5th season either. [However it did appear he was home for Christmas briefly]. I hated not having our favorite smouldering Mountie at Elizabeth’s side. 

Needless to say he returned in this past Sunday’s episode and their reunion was so sweet and charming, as usual. Thank you to the sweet soul on instagram who uploaded clips!

 

“I’m home.”

 

Jack and Elizabeth have FINALLY set a date for their wedding, maid of honors and best men have been picked and Rosemary is clearly already in planning mode. 

It’s so sweet to see how happy Jack is to start his life with Elizabeth. He even created a rough blueprint for their future home, and took her to the land he bought for them. 5 bedrooms! He’s planning on growing their family that’s for sure! #LoveScene? 😉 They even had a sweet candle lit dance with a music box he bought while on his travels through the Northern Territories.

“There are so many rooms!”- Elizabeth

“Family is going to grow, right?”- Jack

“Apparently by a lot.”- Elizabeth *Of course Elizabeth has her shy eyes on.*

“I want to put a big dining room right here.”- Jack

“How big?”- Elizabeth 

“Well big enough to fit all of the Thornton Clan.”- Jack

So cute! I can’t take it. He’s so excited!

However, in sneak peeks for future episodes. It appears that the wedding planning doesn’t exactly go so smoothly. With a fire in the church, I imagine that will set things back. And a few moments of pain inflicted in Jack’s eyes, hints that we may get a bit into what he suffered through during the war. There seems to be a potential post traumatic stress disorder story on the horizon. If you ask me that is so realistic and makes total sense. Jack is very quiet in his emotions, very laid back. Never likes to make a fuss. Even when he and Elizabeth had their breaks in their relationship he was never overly dramatic about their confrontations. Sure he’s well skilled in the grand gestures, but he’s worked on them for 5 years, at the beginning of their courtship boy did he stumble over his feet.

Jack is so grateful to come home to the love of his life, but he’s throwing himself into planning their wedding and their future life together without taking a break. It’s all going to come crashing down on him. And I sense from what I’ve seen  so far, that Elizabeth knows that. She’s asked him several times to “Take a breath,” to “rest and relax because he must be exhausted.” She also has been asking him about the war and what it was like, to which he often deflects saying it “was what is was, and it’s over now.”  

“I’ve waited so long for this.”-Elizabeth

“It’s good to be home.”-Jack

“Now we can go back to where we were.”

“No.”- Jack

“No?”-Elizabeth

“I don’t wanna be engaged.”-Jack

“What?”-Elizabeth

“”I wanna get married. Build a house. Start a family.”

“Okay. Catch your breath.”-Elizabeth

“I don’t need to. The thought of coming home to you, and having you there everyday, it energizes me. It got me through some rough times.” 

I just love them. They are so sweet together and he really loves and respects her so much. I get all giddy just thinking about all the sweet little moments they’ve had together over the seasons- playful banter, disagreements, kisses, all the small looks and smiles. Even when they talk about each other with other people they’ve said such sweet things. In fact this past Sunday in a chat with a younger man- Jesse who is courting Clara (Abigail’s daughter in law whom came to live in Hope Valley after her husband was killed in the mine accident along with Abigail’s husband) asked for some advice. Jack responded that he knows he’s smart enough to know how lucky he is. When Jesse inquires if he and Elizabeth ever broke up, Jack answers that there were times when they put things on hold. He and Elizabeth took some time getting back to each other but they did in the end. Jack further explains that if Jesse and Clara are meant to be they will find their way. It was so sweet to see how he is now in this position to give a younger man advice. Many times he would seek his own advice about Elizabeth from sources like Lee, Bill Avery, and Abigail. He and Elizabeth have come a long way and have really grown together. The list is endless, I could go on all day. In fact I’ve been re-watching seasons on Netflix just to get my WCTH fix. I miss it so much! Lol. 

It’s so crazy that they are at this point in their relationship, I mean from their early scenes together, it’s beautiful to see them now so in love. It seems like time flew by. I mean granted I binged on Netflix, I’m sure those who watched live feel like it’s been an eternity. But in many ways I too feel like it’s taken them quite long to get engaged and now married. I mean Jack was courting Elizabeth for quite a while, and Rosemary and Lee even got married in season 3, before our favorite Hope Valley couple Elizabeth and Jack. Lee and Rosemary are super cute though too! I love how he is so patient with her and all her craziness! Lol. 

Although Rosemary came into Hope Valley at the end of Season 1 hoping to win Jack back (Plot Twist she and Jack used to be engaged!) It’s so crazy to see how much has changed, Rosemary and Elizabeth used to be each other’s competition, and now they are the best of friends. And so are Lee and Jack! Lee didn’t come in until the beginning of Season 2 and the two wed in Season 3! So it’s been a bit of a fast track for the Coulters.

So mind you, you can imagine how anxious we #Hearties have been to see Elizabeth and Jack finally on their way to tying the knot. IN TWO WEEKS! Gosh it’s going to kill me not to watch it! It’s such a big season for them! And I am very passionate when it comes to television and my ships! After all he’s had the damn ring since like what Season 1 or 2, I think! It’s been a long, beautiful journey and I really miss watching it live! 

I guess I’ll have to stick it out and wait until Season 5 is on Netflix. 😦 

In the meantime I wanted to chat about the things that make this show so charming. And a lot of that has to do with the fact that it’s set in a small town. I love small towns, and quaint little cafes, church and shops. I love the simplicity of their life, (not to mention that they have such a comradery in hope and faith throughout the town). 

And last but not least I LOVE the FASHION.

Fashion in the 1910’s were all about the long skirts, and the corsets. The lace, pastel colors, and dainty earrings. The hair was also in a league of it’s own with simple updo’s with a twist or long soft curls. In the first season, Elizabeth dressed a bit more showy, with large hats and flashy dresses, after all she hailed from Hamilton where she lived a wealthy city life. But soon she embraced the more simplistic nature of Hope Valley and toned things down a bit. She found herself, she found her home.

But for a character like Abigail Stanton played by the lovely Lori Loughlin, she had a bit of  the reverse happen. When we first meet her she is all about simple undo’s and no makeup. Beautiful no matter what, but soon Abigail starts to find herself again, she starts to find hope too and realizes she still has so much living to still do despite suffering so much loss when the coal mine tragedy struck taking her husband and son from her. She starts to let her hair down again, and begins entertaining some gentleman callers who obviously couldn’t help but fall for her. All while being a café owner and town mayor. Total Girl Boss. 

Simplicity at it’s best…

Abigail Stanton…

I just love it all. Rosemary spices things up with her red crimson wardrobe as only she could! #Theatrics 

*Get the 1910’s inspired look HERE

One of these days I plan to host a 1910’s inspired party. I need to dress up! I’m dying to play pretend and live in Hope Valley for a day. 

When Calls the Heart airs on Sundays @ 9 pm on the Hallmark Channel. 

 

*I do not take credit for any images/videos used.*

-<3-