Tag: autumn

2017 Wrap Up | 2018 Reading Challenge

2 Comments

With twelve minutes to spare in 2017, I completed my Goodreads goal of reading 50 books. Thanks to the diversity of those books, I also completed the Modern Mrs. Darcy Reading Challenge. Let’s recap the categories accompanied by detailed & extensive lists:

📚 A Book you Chose for the Cover – Before we dive into the list, I want to clarify that I define a cover buy as a book I picked up because the cover caught my eye, which doesn’t  mean I didn’t look at the synopsis:

📖 My True Love Gave To Me: Twelve Holiday Stories by Ally Carter, David Levithan, Gayle Forman, Holly Black, Jenny Han, Kelly Link, Kiersten White, Laini Taylor, Matt De La Peña, Myra McEntire, Rainbow Rowell, & Stephanie Perkins | I almost didn’t buy this book, but I couldn’t get the cover out of my head.

📖 The Messenger of Athens by Anne Zouroudis

📖 Wicked Autumn by G.M. Malliet

📖 Murder on the Cliffs by Joanna Challis

📚 A Book With a Reputation for Being Un-Put-Down-Able

And Then There Were None & Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie | Some people might also include Death on the Nile, myself included.

📖 Illuminae by Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff

📖 The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

📖 Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, …Chamber of Secrets, …Prisoner of Azkaban, & …Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling

📖 Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

📖 Cinder & Heartless by Marissa Meyer

📖 The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

📖 The Rook, The Knight, The Bishop, & The Queen by Steven James ( bestselling author & series )

📚 A Book Set Somewhere You’ve Never Been but Would Like to Visit

🇪🇬 Egypt – Death on the Nile by Agatha Christie, Crocodile on the Sandbank & The Curse of Pharaohs by Elizabeth Peters

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 England – A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens,  And Then There Were None, Crooked House, & The Adventure of the Christmas Pudding by Agatha Christie, Murder on the Cliffs by Joanna Challis, Mystery in White by J. Jefferson Farjeon,  & Wicked Autumn by G.M. Malliet

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 Scotland – The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan

📚 A Book You’ve Already Read – I did a lot of rereading last year:

📖 Miss Marple: The Complete Short Stories & Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie

📖 Kristy’s Great Idea, Claudia and the Phantom Phone Calls, & The Truth About Stacey by Ann M. Martin

📖 Crocodile on the Sandbank by Elizabeth Peters

📖 Mind Over Monsters, To Catch a Vampire, & Death Takes a Holiday by Jennifer Harlow

📖 Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder

📖 Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

📖 Tutu Deadly & Tapped Out by Natalie M. Roberts

📖 The Rook, The Knight, & The Bishop by Steven James

📖 White Christmas Pie by Wanda E. Brunstetter

📚 A Juicy Memoir – In Such Good Company: Eleven Years of Laughter, Mayhem, and Fun in the Sandbox by Carol Burnett. The ending made me cry. No lie!

📚 A Book About Books or Reading – The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan & The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

📚 A Book in a Genre You Usually Avoid – These aren’t all genres I avoid on purpose; I just don’t reach for them often:

📖 My True Love Gave To Me: Twelve Holiday Stories by Ally Carter, David Levithan, Gayle Forman, Holly Black, Jenny Han, Kelly Link, Kiersten White, Laini Taylor, Matt De La Peña, Myra McEntire, Rainbow Rowell, & Stephanie Perkins ( contemporary )

📖 Illuminae by Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff ( science fiction )

📖 In Such Good Company: Eleven Years of Laughter, Mayhem, and Fun in the Sandbox by Carol Burnett ( memoir)

📖 The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern ( fantasy )

📖 Mind Over Monsters, To Catch a Vampire, & Death Takes a Holiday by Jennifer Harlow ( supernatural )

📖 The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan ( contemporary )

📖 Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, …Chamber of Secrets, …Prisoner of Azkaban, & …Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling ( fantasy )

📖 Cinder & Glitches by Marissa Meyer ( science fiction )

📚 A Book You Don’t Want to Admit You’re Dying to Read – Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling. I’m not embarrassed by this series but rather ashamed that I didn’t pick it up sooner. I also read …Chamber of Secrets, …Prisoner of Azkaban, & …Goblet of Fire.

📚 A Book in the Backlist of a New Favorite Author – Pearl in the Sand by Tessa Afshar

📚 A Book Recommended by Someone With Great Taste – These are recommendations by bookstagrammers, booktubers & friends:

📖 Illuminae by Amie Kaufman & Jay Kristoff

📖 The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

📖 Night by Elie Wiesel

📖 Mystery in White by J. Jefferson Farjeon

📖 Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, …Chamber of Secrets, …Prisoner of Azkaban, & …Goblet of Fire by J.K. Rowling

📖 Cinder & Heartless by Marissa Meyer

📖 The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

📚 A Book You Were Excited to Borrow or Buy but Haven’t Read Yet – Though I’m excited about every book I purchase, this list includes the titles I’d been dying to read but had yet to do so:

📖 And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie

📖 The Curse of the Pharaohs by Elizabeth Peters

📖 The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

📖 Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire

📖 Heartless by Marissa Meyer

📖 The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

📖 The Queen by Steven James

📚 A Book About a Subject or Topic You Already Love – Another thorough list:

📖 And Then There Were None, Crooked House, Death on the Nile, Miss Marple: The Complete Short Stories, & Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie ( mystery )

📖 The Adventure of the Christmas Pudding by Agatha Christie ( Christmas & mystery )

📖 The Unexpected Guest by Agatha Christie & Charles Osborne ( mystery )

📖 My True Love Gave To Me: Twelve Holiday Stories by Ally Carter, David Levithan, Gayle Forman, Holly Black, Jenny Han, Kelly Link, Kiersten White, Laini Taylor, Matt De La Peña, Myra McEntire, Rainbow Rowell, & Stephanie Perkins ( the holidays )

📖 The Messenger of Athens by Anne Zouroudis ( crime )

📖 In Such Good Company: Eleven Years of Laughter, Mayhem, and Fun in the Sandbox by Carol Burnett ( The Carol Burnett Show )

📖 The Mystery of the Stone Tiger by Carolyn Keene ( mystery )

📖 A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens ( Christmas )

📖 Crocodile on the Sandbank & The Curse of the Pharaohs by Elizabeth Peters ( Egyptology & mystery )

📖 Wicked Autumn by G.M. Malliet ( mystery )

📖 Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire ( I already love the musical! )

📖 The Postcard Killers by James Patterson ( crime )

📖 Kingdom Come by Jane Jensen ( Amish life & crime )

📖 The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan ( books & reading )

📖 Mystery in White by J. Jefferson Farjeon ( mystery )

📖 Murder on the Cliffs by Joanna Challis ( mystery )

📖 Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder ( pioneer life )

📖 Cinder & Glitches by Marissa Meyer ( fairytales )

📖 Heartless by Marissa Meyer ( Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland )

📖 The Book Thief by Markus Zusak ( books & reading )

📖 Tutu Deadly & Tapped Out by Natalie M. Roberts ( dance & mystery )

📖 The Rook, The Knight, The Bishop, & The Queen by Steven James ( crime )

📖 Land of Silence & Pearl in the Sand by Tessa Afshar ( Bible times )

📖 Rest Ye Murdered Gentlemen by Vicki Delaney ( Christmas & mystery )

📖 White Christmas Pie by Wanda E. Brunstetter ( Amish life & Christmas )

• Total: 12 Categories & 50 Books

• Here are links to my reading updates & 2017 Goodreads Challenge:

2016 Wrap Up & 2017 Reading Challenges ( V I D E O )

January Reading Wrap Up | 2017 Reading Challenge Update

BookTube-A-Thon

October 2017 Wrap Up | November 2017 TBR

Murder on the Orient Express Vlog

November Wrap + December TBR

📚 2017 Goodreads Reading Challenge 📚 

Due to reading fatigue, I am not officially committing to the 2018 Modern Mrs. Darcy Reading Challenge. However, I’m not giving up completely. I may join at any point during the year so I’m leaving the categories here for reference.

📚 A Classic You’ve Been Meaning to Read – A Study in Scarlet by Arthur Conan Doyle

📚 A Book Recommended by Someone With Great Taste – TBD

📚 A Book in Translation – The Time in Between by Maria Duenas

📚 A Book Nominated for an Award in 2018 – TBD

📚 A Book Of Poetry, a Play, or an Essay Collection – Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare

📚 A Book You Can Read in a Day – Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder

📚 A Book That’s More Than 500 Pages – Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J.K. Rowling

📚 A Book by a Favorite Author – Murder at the Vicarage by Agatha Christie

📚 A Book Recommended by a Librarian or Indie Bookseller – The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman

📚 A Banned Book – To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

📚 A Memoir, Biography, or Book of Creative Nonfiction – Talking as Fast as I Can: From Gilmore Girls to Gilmore Girls, and Everything in Between by Lauren Graham

📚 A Book by an Author of a Different Race, Ethnicity, or Religion Than Your Own – Harvest of Gold by Tessa Afshar

Last but not least, I pledged to read 55 books on Goodreads. I’m not going to push myself because reading should be fun, not a competition. Regardless of whether or not I read a certain number of books, I’m doing something I love. Happy reading!

Subscribe to my blog to receive email notifications, and check out my other links listed below.

– Lauren Michele ❤︎

⬇ Important Links ⬇

• Previous Post: Mad Dash

• Previous Video: Family Christmas Gifts | Vlogmas 2017

• Support My Blog

• Art Blog

• Goodreads

• Instagram

• Lauren Michele’s MyWebRoom

• Sign up for MyWebRoom

• Pinterest

• Snapchat

• Tumblr

• Twitter

• Youtube

Advertisement

Fall Is Actually In The Air

1 Comment

The Autumnal Equinox is here, and I have already felt and seen the change of seasons: cooler temperatures, storm clouds, & wind. The past few years have been extremely disappointing due to uncommon humidity and a drought so I am more than ready for a genuine fall. I’m a November baby so this season runs through my veins; I need all things Autumn like I need oxygen to breathe. I have a cozy pile of books ready to go for October; there are some exciting movies premiering soon; and my family is finally taking a vacation. Things are looking golden for my favorite time of year!

Subscribe to my blog to receive email notifications, and check out my other links listed below.

– Lauren Michele ❤︎

⬇️ Important Links ⬇️

• Previous Post: Night of the Living Moths

• Previous Video: Most Embarrassing Moments Part 2

• Support My Blog

• Art Blog

• Goodreads

• Instagram

• Lauren Michele’s MyWebRoom

• Sign up for MyWebRoom

• Pinterest

• Snapchat: LMichele93

• Tumblr

• Twitter

• Youtube

Life Update | August 2017

2 Comments

– C O F F E E –

This is a very important update so listen up: I rarely go to Starbucks anymore. G A S P ! ! The reason comes in individual serving size packets and pairs nicely with almond milk & ice. Have you guessed? I still drink Starbucks coffee but in the comfort of my own home thanks to Via Instant. I know that most people know about this product, but it has been unbelievably easy to enjoy frappuccinos on days when I can’t make it to my neighborhood Starbucks. In fact, I have become so obsessed that even when I’m presented with the option to go to an actual Starbucks, I choose my “homemade” frappuccino. How crazy is that??! My favorite flavor at the moment is Sweetened Iced Coffee.

– B E D R O O M –

My room is small so the arrangement requires a lot of creativity. I recently had an epiphany at work regarding how I could make it feel more spacious and homey. I am happy to report that my idea worked, and I vlogged the whole process. The three-day project was exhausting but worth the effort because I feel like I have officially settled in.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PbC6KS9yYNc

– B L O G G I N G –

I’ve been trying really hard to post consistently on both my blogs. The balance was off earlier this year because I got a paying job helping a photographer maintain her blog. I have since settled in, and I think everything is back to normal. Here are my recent blog posts:

• Misadventures in Babysitting

• Dance of the Paints | Thomas Blanchard

– F I N A N C I A L  S U P P O R T –

I love blogging & vlogging, but it does require money which I don’t have a lot of at the moment due to my status as a sales associate. I’m not exactly breaking the bank with my checks! I recently discovered a brand new website that makes it fun & easy for subscribers to support their favorite bloggers, business, vloggers, etc. Here is my Ko-fi ( pronounced like “coffee” ) link ➡️ https://ko-fi.com/A3023728

– R E A D I N G –

Good news: I took part in BookTube-A-Thon 2017, my very first time doing so. Even though my camera broke on day 6 and I couldn’t continue vlogging, I did continue to participate by reading & interacting on social media. I had so much fun and can’t wait for next year! Bad news: I am in a terrible reading slump A G A I N ! ! I was in one before BTAT, and here I am right back at square one. I have the desire, but every time I attempt to read, I have to force myself to keep going. Reading is the ultimate getaway for me, and I hate being in this mood. I need to pull up my big girl pants and just do it. I’m in the middle of 6 books ( yes, SIX ), and I need to finish all of them because I have exciting books to read in October & November. I also need to make serious progress on my Goodreads reading challenge because I have only completed 26 of my 50-book challenge. Not bad but still not great. Cheer me on!!

– R E T A I L –

I still hate retail. That’s pretty much it. 😂

– V A C A T I O N –

I am counting down the seconds, minutes, hours, days, & months until my autumn vacation. I know I echo the rest of my family when I say we desperately NEED this trip.

⏰ Current Countdown: 1 month, 12 days ⏰

– W E A T H E R –

If you’re a loyal follower of my blog, you know my visceral hatred for the summer months. I love cold foods & swimming, but this season is the absolute worst. I do nothing but sweat and feel gross and uncomfortable. I would much rather be cold & snuggle up in blankets while wearing a sweater. Whether you like it or not, autumn is upon us. Even though it’s my favorite season, I am hesitant to get excited. California disappointed me last year by remaining unbearably hot until the end of the year. Please please please don’t let me down this year!! 🍂 😭 🎃

– Y O U T U B E –

Lots of exciting news! Since my Charmed Aroma review video, I’ve been contacted by two more companies for reviews. I also have a major project in the works, something I’ve been planning for several months. I am slowly compiling products for a Bookish Gift Guide, a list of gift ideas for the bibliophiles in your life. I’ve already purchased two Jane Austen pillows and five candles inspired by A Game of Thrones, Edgar Allen Poe, Harry Potter, Romeo and Juliet, & The Princess Bride respectively. Before this video comes out later next year, there will be 1-2 review videos for various book-inspired candles; I plan to make this an ongoing series on my channel so suggestions are welcome. Last but not least, I mentioned earlier that my camera broke; thankfully I was able to replace it. The Canon Powershot G7 X Mark II has amazing quality, and I feel refreshed and excited for all the new content coming soon to my channel. Things are happening, and I’m going with flow. 🎉

| • I hope all of you have had a great summer. 🌞 I will be back soon with another post. 😘 • |

Subscribe to my blog to receive email notifications, and check out my other links listed below.

– Lauren Michele <3

⬇️ Important Links ⬇️

• Art Blog

• Goodreads

• Instagram

• Lauren Michele’s MyWebRoom

• Sign up for MyWebRoom

• Pinterest

• Snapchat: LMichele93

• Tumblr

• Twitter

• Youtube

 

BookTube-A-Thon 2017 Wrap Up

3 Comments

I was M.I.A. last week, but I have a very good reason: I was participating in BookTube-A-Thon 2017!! If you don’t know what that is, it is an annual summer read-a-thon put together by Ariel Bissett. Bookstagrammers, booktubers, bloggers, & readers from around the world come together to read as much as possible and participate in fun challenges. Even though it was an emotionally and physically exhausting week, I had so much fun and already can’t wait for next year. I kept track of my reading so I could share my journal with you. Here it is:

📝 Challenges & My TBR:

• Read a Book With a Person on the Cover – The Mystery of the Stone Tiger by Carolyn Keene

• Read a Book in One Day – The Mystery of the Stone Tiger by Carolyn Keene

• Read a Hyped Book – Heartless by Marissa Meyer

• Read a Book Featuring a Character Who is Very Different From You – Wicked Autumn by G.M. Malliet

• Read a Book You Purchased Because of the Cover – Wicked Autumn by G.M. Malliet

• Read a Book Outside – Kristy’s Great Idea by Ann M. Martin

• Read 7 Books – Miss Marple: The Complete Short Stories by Agatha Christie

📝 Daily Progress:

DAY 1 – JULY 24

📖 The Mystery of the Stone Tiger – 20 chapters, 175 pages | I finished this book & completed the “One Day Read”  and “Person on the Cover” challenges. ✅

📖 Heartless – 10 chapters, 93 pages

📚 Total: 30 chapters, 268 pages, 1 book complete, & 2 challenges complete

DAY 2 – JULY 25

📖 Heartless – 15 chapters, 131 pages

📚 Total: 15 chapters, 131 pages

DAY 3 – JULY 26

📖 Claudia and the Phantom Phone Calls – 15 chapters, 153 pages | Book complete! ✅

📖 Kristy’s Great Idea – 15 chapters, 157 pages | I finished this book & completed the “Read a Book Outside” challenge. ✅

📖 Wicked Autumn – 5 chapters, 40 pages

📚 Total: 31 chapters, 350 pages, 2 books complete, & 1 challenge complete

DAY 4 – JULY 27

📖 Heartless – 10 chapters, 98 pages

📖 Miss Marple: The Complete Short Stories – 5 chapters, 76 pages

📖 The Truth About Stacey – 5 chapters, 60 pages

📚 Total: 20 chapters, 234 pages

DAY 5 – JULY 28

📖 Heartless – 8 chapters, 64 pages

📖 Miss Marple: The Complete Short Stories – 10 chapters, 186 pages

📖 The Truth About Stacey – 10 chapters, 120 pages | Book complete! ✅

📚 Total: 28 chapters, 370 pages, & 1 book complete

DAY 6 – JULY 29

📖 Heartless – 11 chapters, 73 pages | I finished this book & completed the “Hyped Book” challenge. ✅

📖 Miss Marple: The Complete Short Stories – 5 chapters, 104 pages | Book complete! ✅

📚 Total: 16 chapters, 177 pages, 1 book complete, & 1 challenge complete

DAY 7 – JULY 30

📖 Wicked Autumn – 19 chapters, 211 pages

📚 Despite my best efforts, exhaustion took over, and I was unable to complete Wicked Autumn therefore failing the “Cover Buy” and “Read 7 Books” challenges. I chose The Truth About Stacey as my replacement book for the “Character Who is Different From You” challenge. Stacey is from the East Coast and has diabetes. If that isn’t enough, I could pick Catherine from Heartless who is a future queen and very wishy-washy when it comes to speaking up. I could also pick Miss Marple who is an elderly woman & amateur sleuth. Basically, I completed the challenge in more ways than one.

🎉 Final Numbers: 159 chapters, 1,741 pages, 6 books complete, & 5 challenges complete. Not too shabby for my first year!

➡️ ➡️ ➡️ If you would like to watch my reading process & video challenges, check out my BookTube-A-Thon 2017 YouTube playlist ⬇️ ⬇️ ⬇️

⚠️ YOU CAN ALSO CLICK HERE ➡️ BOOKTUBE-A-THON YOUTUBE PLAYLIST ⬅️

Subscribe to my blog to receive email notifications, and check out my other links listed below.

– Lauren Michele <3

⬇️ Important Links ⬇️

• Previous Post: Lost in Translation

• Support My Blog

• Art Blog

• Goodreads

• Instagram

• Lauren Michele’s MyWebRoom

• Sign up for MyWebRoom

• Pinterest

• Snapchat: LMichele93

• Tumblr

• Twitter

• Youtube

 

 

 

 

Fall Tag

1 Comment

(Leaf Image Source: http://pngimg.com/download/3601)

I combined three Youtube tags and made my own tag by removing and adding questions.  Enjoy fellow autumn enthusiasts!

I Love Fall Tag by MissJenFABULOUS: http://youtu.be/uBzboXYO0LY (Unavailable)

Sweater Weather Tag by ItsMeLexie1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GznrLPa1Wks

The Fall Favorites Tag by Jaclyn Hill: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TPJSgxzC-jE

Fall Tag Video: Fall Tag | Lauren Michele ♥

• Q1:  What is the Weather Like Where You Live?

(Image Source: http://thehazelkey.com/wow-thanks-rant/)

• A1:  California did not get the memo that fall has begun.  Although it is finally starting to cool down, there is a chance of eighty degree temperatures this week.  NO NO NO NO NO!!!!!  I will cheat on the west coast and move to the east coast if the sun rears its ugly head.  Clouds and chill all day everyday for this girl!

• Q2:  Favorite Fall Nail Color

(Image Source: http://www.sinfulcolors.com/productMain/colorDetails/8)

• A2:  Black.  I am not picky about brands although me and Essie have a love/hate relationship.  I currently have Sinful Colors Professional in “Black on Black”, and it is a repurchase.

• Q3:  Favorite Fall Eyeshadow

(Image Source: http://www.makeupalley.com/product/showreview.asp/ItemId=103910/Exotic-Berries-Quad/Milani/Eye-Shadow)

• A3:  When the air starts to get chilly, I immediately reach for my Milani “Exotic Berries” quad.  These colors not only blend well with each other but also with other eyeshadows.  I am not sure about other eye colors, but this quad does wonders for green eyes.

• Q4:  Most Worn Sweater/Sweatshirt

(Image Source: https://poshmark.com/listing/USC-vintage-hoodie-5470d92af71a860549012561)

• A4:  My USC sweatshirt from Forever 21.  I wore this hoodie so much in college, students made jokes when I showed up wearing something else.  Very funny!  No, I did not attend USC.  Growing up, I was influenced by family friends.  FIGHT ON TROJANS!!

• Q5:  Favorite Fall Clothing Item

(Image Source: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Womens-Mossimo-Supply-Co-Khloe-Fold-Over-Boots-/271570299387)

• A5:  Mossimo Supply Co Khloe Fold Over Boots.  This pair of shoes goes with every color of the rainbow and makes me look cool and heroic like Katniss.  ;)

• Q6:  Favorite Fall Drink

(Image Source: http://sgadvertisings.blogspot.com/2012/09/starbucks-venti-sized-salted-caramel.html)

• A6:  Tall, decaf, sugar free Salted Caramel Mocha Frappucino/Latte with soy milk and no whipped cream.  I’m actually drinking a frap right now.  Salty & sweet.  :)

The Official Recipe: Mocha sauce and toffee nut syrup are combined with coffee and milk, then topped with sweetened whipped cream, caramel drizzle and a blend of turbaned sugar and sea salt.

Recipe Source: http://www.starbucks.com/menu/drinks/espresso/salted-caramel-mocha

• Q7:  Favorite Candy

(Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%26M%27s)

(Image Source: https://www.mansfieldpaper.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=productflypage.tpl&product_id=1635&category_id=367&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=2&vmcchk=1&Itemid=2)

• A7:  I don’t really like candy, but two candies I can tolerate are M&Ms and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

• Q8:  Favorite Thanksgiving Food/Dessert

(Image Source: http://www.campbellskitchen.com/recipes/classic-green-bean-casserole-24099

(Image Source: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20131120005407/en/Sara-Lee®-Desserts-Launches-Hotline-Pie-Predicaments)

• A8:  Green bean casserole & pumpkin pie.  What more can I say?  These two dishes are Heaven on earth.

• Q9:  Favorite Fall Candle

(Image Source: https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwisq_LA3J3JAhUJR4gKHXxrDWoQjhwIBQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pinterest.com%2Fpin%2F506232814341353495%2F&psig=AFQjCNHf3a-tq1Jv26BqN4QOx7A4GbYRHw&ust=1448064958234680)

• A9:  Cranberry Woods – “Fresh, tart cranberries, blackcurrant and warm cinnamon bark combine in a delightful fragrance inspired by the magic of the woods during harvest time.”

• Q10:  Favorite Fall Song

(Image Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2936352/Southampton-school-pupils-nightmares-seeing-Michael-Jackson-s-Thriller-video.html)

• A10:  “Thriller” by Michael Jackson.  First of all this song screams fall/Halloween.  Second, I don’t know of any other songs that are specifically about fall.  Third, after Halloween I listen to nothing but Christmas music.

Fun Fact:  My dance class did a tribute dance to “Thriller” the year that MJ passed away.  We wore old clothes and messy makeup.  It was a fun way to deal with sad circumstances.

“Thriller” Music Video/Short Film:

• Q11:  Football: Yay or Nay

(Image Source: https://instagram.com/p/9yiFCByoEV/?taken-by=usc_athletics)

(Image Source: http://www.sports-logos-screensavers.com/DenverBroncos.html)

(Image Source: http://www.sports-logos-screensavers.com/NewYorkGiants.html)

• A11: YES!!!  My favorite college team is the USC Trojans; my favorite NFL team is the Denver Broncos; and the New York Giants are my #2 NFL team.  :)

• Q12:  Favorite Fall TV Show

(Image Source: http://starcasm.net/archives/319691)

• A12:  DUH!  “The Walking Dead.”  I also love “Once Upon a Time”, but “The Walking Dead” is #1.  Forever and always!

“The Walking Dead” Season 1 Trailer:

• Q13:  Favorite Fall Movie

(Image Source: Amazon.com: An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving: Jacqueline Bissett …)

• A13:  I am not really a fan of Halloween, but if I were to pick Halloween movies to watch, I can handle “Hocus Pocus”, “The Addams Family”, “Addams Family Values”, and “Halloween” (Original and New version).  However, my favorite fall movie is “An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving.”  It is based on a short story by Louisa May Alcott, author of “Little Women.”

“An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving” Trailer:

• Q14:  Scary Movies – Yay or Nay

(Image Source: http://humor.gunaxin.com/terrifyingly-scary-halloween-pumpkins/167307)

• A14:  NAY!!!  I watch some horror movies but only to spend quality time with my brother.  That. Is. LOVE.

• Q15:  Favorite Fall Memory

(Image Source: http://www.brides.com/wedding-ideas/wedding-cakes/2011/09/fall-wedding-cakes#slide=3)

(Image Source: http://www.nutcracker.com/index.php)

• A15: Me and my dad are both November babies so my family always comes up with fun stuff to celebrate both birthdays.  Another great memory is my time as a dancer in the Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker.  Auditions usually took place in September, and rehearsals lasted until the shows at the end of November.

Moscow Ballet Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/nutcracker.moscowballet/

Moscow Ballet Website: http://www.nutcracker.com/

Moscow Ballet Youtube Channel:  https://www.youtube.com/user/moscowballet

You may or may not see me at 8:01 – 9:24 :)

• Q16:  Favorite Thing About Fall

(Image Source: http://www.playbuzz.com/lafayetteimage10/which-fall-activity-is-for-you)

• A16:  Fall is my favorite season so I love everything about it.  :D

If you want to watch me answer these questions, watch the video:  Fall Tag | Lauren Michele ♥

* * * Remember readers: 13 days until Blogmas, 27 days until Artmas (on my art blog), and 37 days until Christmas.

Subscribe to my blog to receive email notifications, and check out my other links listed below.

– Lauren Michele <3

Previous Post: Perspective

Previous Video:

My Links:

Art Blog: https://laurenmichelephotography.wordpress.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/laurenmicheleonline/

Lauren Michele’s MyWebRoom: http://www.mywebroom.com/room/laurenmicheleonline/#

Sign up for MyWebRoom: http://www.mywebroom.com

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lagirl93/

Tumblr: http://laurenmichelephotography.tumblr.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/laurenmichele93

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCic1VLw_OuW2fzDQ88oi_AA/feed

I’m Feeling 22

2 Comments

(Image Source: I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling 22. #tswift #itsmybirthday …)

I waited three years for November 5, 2015.  I can finally say “I’m feeling 22!!!”  If you are unsure of what I’m referring to, listen to this:

” I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling 22!”

Follow along as I take you through my day: My best friend Gabby bombarded me with texts at 7am, wishing me “Happy Birthday!” and gifting me with Tom Hiddleston and Johnny Depp gifs.  HAHAHA!!!  I tried to go back to sleep but couldn’t.  I decided to make myself some homemade salted caramel coffee.  My mug didn’t fit under the Keurig so I removed the bottom container.  That was a big mistake because it catches excess liquid.  When I poured in the water, the excess had nowhere to go but all over the counter.  Fun times!  Unfortunately, the coffee did not taste as great as my expectations.  Next, I spent some time checking my social media accounts, blogging, and watching “Criminal Minds.”  I published a very special art project that took three months to complete; I made collages to represent my top 6 favorite TV and movie couples.  Check it out: Can’t Help Falling in Love

Due to my early morning start, I fell asleep on the couch around 11am.  I was awakened one hour later by my mom wishing me “Happy birthday!” and encouraging me to open my presents.  I received seasons 6 and 7 of “Little House on the Prairie” and the complete series of “The Nanny.”  Yes, yes, and YES.  I ate pancit for lunch and relaxed until 4pm.  My family went to “Wood Ranch BBQ & Grill” for dinner.  I had an 8oz sirloin and macaroni & cheese; wings and rolls were also involved.  From there, we went to an Ontario Reign vs San Diego Gulls hockey game.  The Gulls are the Anaheim Ducks minor league team so I was cheering for them; unfortunately they lost 4-1.  The game wasn’t the most exciting thing I have ever experienced, but we didn’t pay full price thanks to Groupon so I guess it was kind of a win.  I ended the night with Ben & Jerry’s “Americone Dream” ice cream and “The Carol Burnett Show.”  Not a bad day!  My family is also planning a belated-birthday trip to the zoo very soon.  I will be vlogging so subscribe to my Youtube channel and keep an eye out for that video within the next 2 months.  :)

So far, I haven’t had any “One Year Older Epiphanies.”  I don’t feel one year older, but that has a lot to do with the fact that I still look twelve.  In the next year of my life, I want to continue working hard and expanding my blogs and Youtube channel.  Having outlets for my voice and creativity means the world to me.  Thank you to each and every one of you who have chosen to subscribe and follow along with me; it means a lot to me that you care about what I write.  Also, I can’t believe our little blog family is 11 members away from 200.  What an amazing gift!!

I hope you enjoyed my birthday recap.  Don’t forget that Christmas is coming!  Artmas (on my Art Blog) starts in 38 days, and Blogmas will begin in 25 days.  You don’t want to miss it!

Subscribe to my blog to receive email notifications, and check out my other links listed below.

– Lauren Michele <3

49 Days Until Christmas

Previous Post: Can’t Help Falling in Love

Previous Video:

My Links:

Art Blog: https://laurenmichelephotography.wordpress.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/laurenmicheleonline/

Lauren Michele’s MyWebRoom: http://www.mywebroom.com/room/laurenmicheleonline/#

Sign up for MyWebRoom: http://www.mywebroom.com

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lagirl93/

Tumblr: http://laurenmichelephotography.tumblr.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/laurenmichele93

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCic1VLw_OuW2fzDQ88oi_AA/feed

The Great Boot Detective

1 Comment

(Image Source: http://sewickleylibrary.org/?attachment_id=2588)

My search began two years ago.  I was browsing through Pinterest and came across a picture of a pair of boots that were cute, stylish, and perfect for fall.  I instantly fell in love and had to know where I could buy them.  The picture I saw was the same picture you see below.  I clicked on the picture to find its source.  I was redirected here: https://www.flickr.com/photos/keikolynn/6377434857/in/photostream

A Flickr member named Keiko posted the picture sans information about where the boots came from.  I did as much digging as I could with only a Flickr image.  I came up with nothing and resigned to living without the boots.  Goodbye love of my life!  Fast forward to August 21,2015.  My mom woke me up sometime after midnight (VERY EARLY) to excitedly inform me that she had found “The Boots.”  Due to the fact that we had completed a five-mile hike the previous day, I was exhausted and not nearly as excited as she was.  I promptly fell back to sleep.  However, when I woke up, I remembered the one-sided conversation and rushed to my computer to see what she had found.  Sure enough, my wonderful mother had finally found “The Boots.”  Here they are: http://www.shoespie.com/product/10990546.html

They are made to order in Italy so it took a few weeks for them to arrive.  What is a few weeks compared to 2 years?!  Finally.  FINALLY I had “The Boots” in my hands.  Thank you mom!!  <3

*** Click each image to make it bigger. ***

Boots_Side 1

Boots_Front

Boots_Side 2

The color differs from the Flickr picture, but I think that has a lot to do with age.  Also, the Flickr picture was taken in the rain so the shoes are wet and therefore look darker.  Despite the appearance being different than what I expected, I have zero complaints.  The color is appealing and versatile, and the shoe is comfortable.  The search was worth it!!

Subscribe to my blog to receive email notifications, and check out my other links listed below.

– Lauren Michele <3

Previous Post: https://laurenmichelelifestyle.wordpress.com/2015/10/25/disneybounding-into-autumn/

Previous Video:

My Links:

Art Blog: https://laurenmichelephotography.wordpress.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/laurenmicheleonline/

Sign Up For MyWebRoom: http://9nl.me/LaurenMichele

Lauren Michele’s MyWebRoom: http://www.mywebroom.com/room/laurenmicheleonline/#

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lagirl93/

Tumblr: http://laurenmichelephotography.tumblr.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/laurenmichele93

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCic1VLw_OuW2fzDQ88oi_AA/feed

 

DisneyBounding Into Autumn

1 Comment

(Image Source: https://katejohns619.wordpress.com/tag/pocahontas/)

What is it: Disney Parks do not allow visitors to wear costumes because they might be mistaken for cast members.  DisneyBound refers to the subtle replication of Disney characters and places using street clothes.  This way, no one gets in trouble, and everybody has fun.  :)

How Did it Start:  Leslie Kalbfleisch A.K.A. Leslie Kay has imitated characters using fashion from the time she was a child.  When she finally achieved her goal of visiting Disney World with her best friend, she created a Tumblr blog to document the trip.  She called it “DisneyBound” because she was literally “Disney-Bound.”  All she had to do was post a few Disney-themed outfits, and it took less than a month for Leslie to get national recognition.  DisneyBound has its own community as well as a clothing lines dedicated to making DisneyBounding easier.  The possibilities are endless!!  (Liddane)

(Image Source: http://disneybound.tumblr.com/)

DisneyBound Blog: http://disneybound.tumblr.com/

DisneyBound Clothing Line: http://www.cakeworthystore.com/collections/cw-x-db

Ortiz, Leonard. Leo Camacho as Aladdin. 2014. Web. 24 Oct. 2015. http://www.ocregister.com/articles/disneybound-633983-disney-character.html.

Ortiz, Leonard. Leo Camacho as Aladdin. 2014. Web. 24 Oct. 2015. http://www.ocregister.com/articles/disneybound-633983-disney-character.html.

Leo Camacho A.K.A. Leo Zombie

Instagram – https://instagram.com/mrleozombie/?hl=en

Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/user/MrLeoZombie

Ortiz, Leonard. Leslie Kay as Lilo. 2014. Web. 24 Oct. 2015. http://www.ocregister.com/articles/disneybound-633983-disney-character.html.

Ortiz, Leonard. Leslie Kay as Lilo. 2014. Web. 24 Oct. 2015. http://www.ocregister.com/articles/disneybound-633983-disney-character.html.

Leslie Kay

Instagram – https://instagram.com/leslieakay/?hl=en

Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmKNavkUaDuM6FoFQPRhLhQ

Ortiz, Leonard. Sarah Sterling as Peter Pan. 2014. Web. 24 Oct. 2015. http://www.ocregister.com/articles/disneybound-633983-disney-character.html.

Ortiz, Leonard. Sarah Sterling as Peter Pan. 2014. Web. 24 Oct. 2015. http://www.ocregister.com/articles/disneybound-633983-disney-character.html.

Sarah Sterling A.K.A. Sarah Snitch

Instagram – https://instagram.com/sarahsnitch/?hl=en

Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/user/imSarahSnitch

(Image Source: http://indieminded.com/2013/06/new-indie-brand-spotlight-adorkable-apparel/)

Adorkable Apparel Website – http://www.adorkableapparel.com/

Adorkable Apparel Youtube Playlist – https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXTFEmMJUQH92xAAf1ycg_MwPrXDXcvW8

Traci Hines Instagram – https://instagram.com/tracihines/

Traci Hines Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/user/TraciJHines

(Image Source: http://charismastartv.tumblr.com/post/93943852409/my-spinelli-disney-bound-for-my-bro)

Disney Fashion Series by Charis Lincoln A.K.A. Charisma Star – https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOmMpGzTokqrnlYLnDRAk6F0eTRD1nQS2

Instagram – https://instagram.com/charismastar/?hl=en

Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/user/charismastar

– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –

Moving on to part 2 of this post, I want to show you seven DisneyBound looks.  These are outfits I created from my own closet, no purchases necessary.

All the outfits are featured in my “Autumn DisneyBound Lookbook” video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deEr9JoF3vI

Keep in mind this is my interpretation of seven Disney characters based on what was available in my wardrobe.  The ensembles are not perfect, but they capture the spirit of the characters.  DisneyBound is supposed to be fun, not difficult or stressful.

Jessie, “Toy Story”

(Image Source: http://www.fun.com/40-jessie-toy-story-wall-decal.html)

Yellow Cardigan

Plaid Button Down Shirt

Dark Blue Jeans

Brown Cowboy Boots

* * * Starts at 0:05 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deEr9JoF3vI

Evil Queen, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs”

(Image Source: http://mickeyandcompany.tumblr.com/post/30625563768)

Sheer Black Top

Purple Blouse

Black Skinny Jeans

Black Booties

* * * Starts at 1:34 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deEr9JoF3vI

Meeko, “Pocahontas”

(Image Source: http://animated-disney-gifs.tumblr.com/post/17165426384)

Black Vest

Light Gray Sweater

Black Skinny Jeans

Gray Wedge Boots

* * * Starts at 3:13 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deEr9JoF3vI

Beast, “Beauty and the Beast”

(Image Source: http://disney.wikia.com/wiki/Beast)

Yellow Cardigan

Blue Sweater

Black Skinny Jeans

Brown Boots

* * * Starts at 4:29 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deEr9JoF3vI

Jack Sparrow, “Pirates of the Caribbean”

(Image Source: http://blogs.disney.com/oh-my-disney/2014/05/14/posing-tips-from-captain-jack-sparrow/)

Black Leather Jacket

White Blouse

Black Skinny Jeans

Brown Boots

* * * Starts at 5:47 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deEr9JoF3vI

Queen of Hearts, “Alice in Wonderland”

(Image Source: http://disney.wikia.com/wiki/Queen_of_Hearts)

Gray Heart Necklace

Red Sweater

Black Skinny Jeans

Tan Booties

* * * Starts at 7:06 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deEr9JoF3vI

Alice, “Alice in Wonderland”

(Image Source: http://disney.wikia.com/wiki/Alice)

Blue Button Down Shirt

White Flower Blouse

Cuffed Blue Jeans

Black Wedges

* * * Starts at 8:46 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deEr9JoF3vI

All of my Disney-themed Youtube videos are in one playlist.  Check it out Disney lovers!  ;)

“All Things Disney” Playlist:

Disney Challenge:

Epcot & Hollywood Studios Vlog:

Animal Kingdom & Magic Kingdom Vlog:

Autumn DisneyBound Lookbook:

If you enjoy one or more of the videos, please give a thumbs up and subscribe to my Youtube channel.  Both are helpful and encouraging to me as a Youtuber.  Please & thank you!

Subscribe to my blog to receive email notifications, and check out my other links listed below.

– Lauren Michele <3

Previous Post: https://laurenmichelelifestyle.wordpress.com/2015/10/17/once-upon-a-disney/

Previous Video:

My Links:

Art Blog: https://laurenmichelephotography.wordpress.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/laurenmicheleonline/

Sign Up For MyWebRoom: http://9nl.me/LaurenMichele

Lauren Michele’s MyWebRoom: http://www.mywebroom.com/room/laurenmicheleonline/#

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lagirl93/

Tumblr: http://laurenmichelephotography.tumblr.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/laurenmichele93

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCic1VLw_OuW2fzDQ88oi_AA/feed

Works Cited:

Liddane, Lisa. “Can’t dress up at Disneyland? Streetwear meets Disney in ‘Disneybound’ style.” ocregister.com. N.p., 6 Sept. 2014. Web. 24 Oct. 2015. http://www.ocregister.com/articles/disneybound-633983-disney-character.html.