Halloween, my favorite day of the year. Where I can wear weird outfits and  be an actress, and it to be socially acceptable. My favorite part of Halloween is creating a costume, by myself or with friends, that is unique. Here's a little snapshot of Halloween from the past few years.

Halloween 2015: My Aunt Jess MADE the Leia dress and the belt is from Savers. Han wore a pair of his own pants, shoes lent to him, a work shirt, and a small vest from Savers. The hairdo is actually my own hair!

Halloween 2014: The WORSE Disney Villain. While going to Disney for Halloween, I decided to make the SCARIEST villain out there. The purple shirt is from AC Moore, my Mom pressed the iron on, the boxers are from Target, the fake teeth were from a party store, and I made the head gear wire myself. The fish was from a toy store and I cut a Ziploc baggie, too. 

Halloween 2012: The Birds! I purchased the suit off Ebay, the fake birds at a crafts store, and the fake blood at a Halloween store. Heels were from Payless. 

Coraline, a book by Neil Gaiman and a film directed by Henry Selick. A creepy and enchanting film that is very underrated. My Aunt Jess. who made the Leia dress, made the INCREDIBLE Coraline doll. I found costume pieces and patched them together to make this costume, years ago.

Because if I'm going to wear a bed sheet, it must be DAMN fabulous.

My hair can do amazing things

College threw me for whirlwind. With all the stresses and assignments, October hit hard and by the time I checked the calendar, I couldn't believe how close I was to Halloween!

​I barely thought of my costume this year. I imagined being Harley Quinn but with the recent success of the film, I didn't want to be another repeat. I decided to think outside the box! 

Keeping the same theme, I decided to go as Poison Ivy and Amiclubwear helped me!

Ladies, you feel the pain. Going out on the weekends and you need an outfit. I usually hit Marshalls but it's hard to find "party" clothes. Forever 21 and Charlotte Rouse hits you with some high prices.

You want the trendiest clothes: dresses with cut outs and lace, those little string thing style on the chest. Pom Pom heels. The latest colors for each season. AND AFFORDABLE.

Amiclubwear is the first site where I have been insanely impressed by the quantity, styles, the trends, and the prices.  The clothes ARE BEAUTIFUL and the prices will soothe your wallet. And, for Halloween, why drop hundreds on an outfit you'll wear for one night or one weekend? Amiclubwear is your destination for cute clothes, trendy looks, and flirty Halloween costumes! - Be. Fabulous. ALL. YEAR. ROUND!

I received a beautiful costume from Amiclubwear; a sequence covered leotard with leaf details on the chest and hips. Flirty, fierce and fabulous, I felt ready to take on Halloween. But one thing was missing...

The costume I received from Amiclubwear SLAYED, but how could I add to it? And it came to me; accessories. I had the glam and the glitz but I wanted to bring it to a whole 'nother level.

I went out and hit the store and searched my room for materials and items I needed some items so I hit the mall and shopped online:

• Frederick's of Hollywood Green Heels: $5 (EBay)
• Hot glum gun: $2.84 (Walmart)
• NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil Cashmere: $4.77 (Target) 
• Mini Gluesticks: $2.50 (AC Moore)
• Garland Maple Ivy: $7.99 (AC Moore)
• Green Tights: $6.99 (Spirit)

I then check my room and used

• Naked 2 Pallet 
• Revlon Are you Red-dy​

Not shown in pictures but used on Halloween

• Green eye liner
• Green mascara
• 3 shades of green eye shadow

With the ivy from the craft store, I spent over two hours cutting and gluing. I would estimate how much I needed, glue pieces together, and cut leaves and stems on the pieces I cut. I made anklets, bracelets, and hair clips. 

After cleaning up the hanging glue and big globs, the accessories were finished!

I'm Halloween ready. I may be unsure of my plans for Halloween, but Amiclubwear and my accessories creation has prepped me for whatever this weekend may hand me! 

Have a very happy and safe Halloween! 

Check out Amiclubwear online and visit their website to see their trendy and killer clothes! 
Website: click here
Instagram: click here
Facebook: click here
Twitter: click here​

Special thanks to the talented Liana Kelly who photographed me for this special Halloween post. Her ability to capture photos blows me away every time! Give her some love and follow Liana on Instagram: @lianavk or click here

You know how it goes; radio plays the same few songs, Pandora repeats the same crap you thumbed up circa middle school, your CD's hit the trash ages ago. If you hear the "baby hold me closer in the backseat of your rover..." song one. more. time. YOU MIGHT GO INSANE.

​How do we discover NEW and EXCITING music? We can Google and scavenge the internet for ages, but time is money and that's a waste.

I feel your pain, it is an absolute pain. So here's a thought, every once in a while, I'll be enlightening you music craving creatures with some up-and-coming artists that deserve your ear. I welcome you to the first segment of Keep An Ear Out. 

Meet Keith Brower Brown; singer, synths, and guitar in Trails and Ways

Genre
Indie-Pop, Indie-rock with strong flavors of dream pop

"What inspired you?" 
Keith's love for music first began in elementary school with piano and choir. He took years off and late in high school, he envisioned traveling or joining the Peace Corps. He felt as if music was an international language or a language of interchange and believed that music could help with his understanding of cultures. Therefore,he began learning guitar. Years later, while in Brazil, he was inspired by the styles of music there. That's when the seeds were planted!

"Best time to listen to your music?"
Keith stated that he does not project or over-predict what the listener should perceive. Therefore, he creates music that is real to him and allows the listener to choose what they perceive, such as what is the best time to listen to Trails and Ways.

"Favorite show or venue you've played?"
"The Independent" or "The Black Cat". Keith says he loves playing at places that have their own history and radical culture.

"Favorite song or album?"
The newest album, Own It, is Keith's favorite album up to date. After making it, he said he couldn't get enough and wanted to continue listening to it. He said,with the album, they achieved what they set out to do.

"Favorite performance story?"
The band played on a GIANT cruise ship that left from Miami to the Bahamas last November. The cruise was half music festival. The band wasn't able to talk about the cruise, which was filled with tons of other artists and bands. For the four days, the band played one show and was able to enjoy lectures, shows, networking, and more. It was a surreal experience.

"Any advice to new musicians?"
Keith says it's never too early to start. The first step is always developing a strong sense of yourself, meaning, and what you want to make or what you want to do.

Upcoming shows
Stay up to date with upcoming shows by visiting their website or by clicking here
​List of shows and tickets on their "shows" tab
See them in Boston TOMORROW. Buy tickets here

Find their music
Bandcamp: Search Trails and Ways or click here 
Spotify: Search Trails and Ways or click here
Soundcloud: Search Trails and Ways or click here 

Find them on social media
Facebook: Search Trails and Ways or click here 
Twitter: Search Trails and Ways or click here
Instagram: Search Trails and Ways or click here

Website
http://hiketrailsandways.tumblr.com/

Online store
Find music, merch and more by clicking here

Contact for booking
​​ trailsandwaysband@gmail.com

Meet Michael Cangemi; bassist and a songwriter in Bron Don

Genre
​Rock, Alternative, Reggae, and Good Vibes. 

"What do you sound like?" 
"If Jimi Hendrix, the Chili Peppers and Bob Marley had a three-some and John Cena was the doctor birthing the baby, that baby would be Bron Don" 

"Who inspires you?" 
"A lot of things inspire me, musical things and non musical things. Being at Berklee and seeing the talent around here and the talent of the homies in my band is really a big part of inspiration. We live together and we are always just in a creative atmosphere".

"Why music?"
"I've played bass and guitar and a few other instruments since I was a little kid and I can't imagine myself really doing anything else with my life and time. It's what I enjoy most in life. I founded my band Bron Don at my first semester at Berklee (Fall 2013) with 2 of my friends, then we got a drummer and have been pushing it since then!"

"Best time to listen to your music?"
"My band has music literally for all moods. We got good hang reggae vibes, hard rock bangers, sad breakup songs, trippy druggy songs, love songs, sexy time songs. We got it all. Check it all out on Spotify, Apple Music, Bandcamp and all those good things". 

"Favorite show or venue you've played?"
"Brighton Music Hall has been my favorite venue I've played at thus far"

"Favorite song?"
"I mean personally I like all the songs my band has written. We like to write music that we like to listen to and if other people like it then that's a plus as well!. We also like to do cover medleys, usually fusing 3-5 songs or riffs together that are crowd favorites. We like making songs into a reggae feel so we surprise people with songs that are far from reggae and make em reggae". 

"Favorite performance story?"
"We were playing a show at the Middle East Down Stairs one weekend and a dude front row got a blow job on the front monitor before he and his lady friend were escorted out of the venue...."

"Any advice to new musicians?"
"If you love music and the music you create then go for it, but you gotta have some drive, determination and patience". 

Upcoming shows
"We actually have a BANGING Halloween show Friday the 28th at 8pm at The Red Room, Cafe 939 on Bolyston St. You can find the details about it on our facebook page, as well as info about other upcoming shows!"

Keep up to date with upcoming shows by clicking here

Find their music
ITunes: Search Bron Don
Spotify: Search Bron Don or click here 
Soundcloud: Search Bron Don or click here

Find them on social media
Facebook: Search Bron Don or click here

Twitter: Search @brondonvibes or click here

Instagram: Search @brondonvibes or click here

Snapchat:Yep you guessed it, @brondonvibes

Websites
www.brondonmusic.com
www.brondon.bandcamp.com
​
Online store
Find merch, music, and more by visiting their store or clicking here for merch or here for music
​
Contact for booking
bron.don.booking@gmail.com

​Meet Steven Collins; singer, rhythm guitarist and writer of Steven Collins and the Complications.

​Genre
Alt rock, indie, emo, etc.

"What do you sound like?"
"I like to think we sound like Death Cab For Cutie married to Modern Baseball and having an affair with The Dear Hunter on the side, but we’re probably nowhere close to that haha"

"What's your style?"
"I’m still kind of figuring out what style I want to play but the current project we’re working on is probably best listened to late at night in the fall thinking about your ex and considering texting them. That’s probably the ideal situation to hear this EP"

"Who inspires you?"
"I’m mostly inspired by bands like Brand New, Modest Mouse and Modern Baseball. I’m also very inspired by singular artists such as Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar, Frank Ocean and Julien Baker"

"Why music?"
"The initial thing that drew me to music was the cathartic experience I’ve had through listening over the years. As I’ve gotten older I’ve realized how much writing has helped me to put things into perspective and deal with emotions in ways that other forms of expression wouldn’t allow. I began writing music in an attempt to deal with certain things that weren’t being fixed in any other way, and I hope that at some point my music helps a listener the way that I was helped by music growing up"

"Favorite show or venue you've played?"
"My favorite show I’ve played was probably a show in my buddy’s backyard, it was one of my first times ever playing music in front of people and there was about 60 people there. It was just me and a guitar but everyone was very nice and being one of my first shows, I’ll remember it forever"

​"Favorite song?"
"My favorite song I’ve written right now is the last song on the “Archaists” EP. It’s called “Eulogy” and I think it’s a really effective closer in the context of the EP’s story. I’m incredibly happy with how that one came out"

"Advice for new musicians?"
"I’m not really in any position at the moment to give advice about the pursuit of music since I haven’t done anything yet but I suppose just never looking at all of the failure around you. It’s a tough industry and it’s really easy to give up on your aspirations when you look around and see all of the absolutely incredible acts not getting the attention they deserve. The only thing you have to do is keep your head forward and only concern yourself with your career and you’ll feel a lot more optimistic about where you’re headed."​

Upcoming projects
The band is releasing an EP this winter

Upcoming shows
The band has their FIRST SHOW in New York on November 18th at Wagner College
(Break a leg, guys and embrace the mix of crippling anxiety and ecstasy!)

Find their music
Check out their Bandcamp to stay up to date about their upcoming music. You can find them under Steven Collins & The Complications or by clicking here

Steven says he recorded one in his bedroom and "...One being a very early demo of a song that is on the new EP and one being a Brand New cover. Those two tracks are not an appropriate representation of what we’re working on now but it’s something!"

Find them on Social Media
Facebook: Search  Steven Collins & The Complications or click here


Contact for booking 
stevencollins1996@gmail.com

Meet Matt Jordan, independent Emcee known as Two Three (23)

Genre
Hip Hop/Rap

"What do you sound like?"
" I would say that my music is a lot like Drake’s, without the crooning and often condescending lyrics about women. I am also like West in the sense that I am unapologetically honest about my life and try very hard not to write any music that doesn’t truly represent who I am or who I have been. In terms of the production I am like a chameleon; I can perform on any beat while simultaneously maintaining the aspects of the lyricism that make the music, mine."​

"Why Music?"
"Music has helped me find my identity; it has gotten me out of the darkest points of my life. I began pursing it as a form of meditation for myself, however, I also wish to provide listeners with the same guidance that I received from my favorite artists in order to get them through the various obstacles in their lives"

"Who inspires you?"
"Artists who speak freely and think outside the box, like Kanye West, have influenced me a great deal throughout my life. I believe it’s the job of the artist to display their own authentic interpretations of the world in their work and not feel inclined to stay silent on topics that they disagree with. I believe West, time and time again, utilizes this method of artistry which is why he is one of the most polarizing artists in music; he defies tradition"

"Best time to listen to your music?"
"The best time to listen to my music often varies because I often write for individual seasons. I have made a tape entirely for the summer season, as well as one for the winter. I’d say my strong suit is the summer-sound, however"

"Favorite song of yours?"
"My favorite songs are my most personal. I immediately think of a song I wrote in High School called Rhodes where I glide across a nice guitar sample, detailing the things I’ve seen in my life and how they’ve shaped me"

"Advice for new musicians?"
"If you pursue music, make sure you remain true to yourself despite the constant temptation to conform to others."

Meet Morgan Brown, singer, guitarist, and member of The Amy Incident 

Genre
Alternative rock, with an indie rock sound

"What do you sound like?"
“I would say that we are if early “Green Day” hung out “Squeeze” for a day then met up with The Front bottoms and Modern Baseball, then they all had a kid with Arcade Fire”
​
​​"Why music?"
"I started playing guitar when I was 7 years old. I saw the Longview (by Green Day) music video and I instantly wanted to be a musician. After seeing other people become successful, I realized that I actually could"

"Who inspires you?"
"My grandfather is 90 years old and still plays gigs. Him along with my other friends and family inspire me to just be the best me I can be. If that includes music, then I will be super grateful"

"Best time to listen to your music?"
“I would say we have songs for night time and crying but we also have songs to dance around with your friends at the park?”

"Favorite song of yours?"
"My two favorite songs off of the new record would be “Sand” and “Outro”, although I am extremely proud of every song I put on the self-titled record coming out in November"

Favorite show or venue you've played?
"Any Basement. There are such good vibes when people care about what’s going on. Such a great environment to play in"

Any advice for new musicians?
“My advice to anyone who wants to perform would be, to be organized. Know the direction you want to go, give yourself time, and then just go for it. You might think that it may not all work, or it’s not going the way you want, but seriously it will take time. Just be determined and organized"

Upcoming shows
​The band will be playing with Steven Collins and the Complications in New York on November 18th at Wagner College

​Social Media
Facebook: Search The Amy Incident or by clicking here
Twitter: Search @morgancbrown or click here

​​Contact for booking
​morgancbrownmusic@gmail.com

Check out these amazing music groups and let them know Samantha sent you!
​
Special thanks to Keith of Trails and Ways, Michael of Bron Don, Steven of Steven Collins and The Complications, and Morgan of The Amy Incident

So... the week is here. 7 days, 7 looks, and will I have the time to do laundry? 

You know the struggle. Size small at one store, size XL at another. Fits perfectly here...but not there. In and out and in and out and in and out AND IN AND OUT OF THE DRESSING ROOM. WHAT AM I DOING??

Shopping sucks. The process of getting ready and leaving for the mall, the long lines, the screaming children, finding parking, missing my pajamas and bed...yeah, shopping sucks.

​And, it sucks when nothing fits right. Mostly when you find a style you like. Everything fits different on everyone; whether you consider yourself and "apple" or a "pear" or if you're like me, an "awko taco", it's a pain.

And maybe, just maybe, STS Blue Jeans is the brand that'll save us from the misery of what is the shopping process.

STS Blue is a revolutionary new line of jeans. Inspired by the Southern California lifestyle, each pair of jeans reflects a unique style and voice every single one of us has. The combination of chic, comfort, and sexiness brings STS Blue to the top of the trend-setting jeans! 

Check out my jeans
​ here:

Got your STS Blue jeans? Are you ready to unleash your own unique style and voice? I can help yoiu there!

Invent your own uniqueness! By cutting and creating your own crop top, you can make a one of a kind look. Pair with a unique pair of shoes to complete the look! I took an XL shirt, cut it to fit as a crop top, and took some fabric scraps to tie the shirt in the back.

My look
Top: White Stag (Savers)
Pants: STS Blue Piper Destroyed Skinny Jeans
​Heels: Mix No. 6 (DSW)

Ripped jeans can be professional, depending on how you work it! Pair an out-there printed top (stripes, checkers, animal print, whatever you like!) and add an accent color to make it pop! Depending on you professional life, this look can work on the job!

My look 
Top: Monteau (Marshall's)
​Pants: STS Blue Piper Destroyed Skinny Jeans
Flats:Lower East Side (Payless)

Night out? Date night? Birthday? Just want to add a touch of sparkle? Use your shoes and an accent to bring some glam to your outfit!

My look
Shirt: Rue 21
​Pants: STS Blue Piper Destroyed Skinny Jeans
​Heels: Fioni Night (Payless)

Ahh...cozy sweaters and autumn nights. Your look doesn't have to be a bulky sweater you drown in or fuzzy boots that make you sweat. You can rock autumn with a look that makes you stand out! Try clog-like heels and a sweater that contrasts with your STS Blue Jeans for a look you'll FALL in love with.

My look
Sweater: Rue 21
​Pants: STS Blue Piper Destroyed Skinny Jeans
​Heels: Not Rated (Savers)

The chilly seasons are upon us! Despite the frosty nights, you can flaunt a cute look when you're going out. Skip the little black dress and go for a new-age look. This look will have you standing out from the crowd!

My look
Top: Love Tree (Marshall's)
Pants: STS Blue Piper Destroyed Skinny Jeans
​Shoes: BCBG Generation (DSW)

Embrace your 90's rocker! Take a color from your flannel and emphasize it with matching shoes. Comfy, warm, and kick-ass! A look that never goes out of style.

My look
Flannel: Mossimo Supply Co (Unknown) 
Camisole: Arizona (Khols)
​Pants: STS Blue Piper Destroyed Skinny Jeans
Boots: Forever (Knock off Dr Martens, Online)

Drop the flannel and rep your favorite band! Similar to The Grunge,  rake your shoes and match them with your band t. Quick, easy, and a way to make a statement!

Shirt: Goldfinger's European Tour (Ebay)
​Pants: STS Blue Piper Destroyed Skinny Jeans
Boots: Dr Martens (Online)

Digging the awesomeness of what is STS Blue? Get the comfort and style I am now OBSESSED with.

Get yourself a pair! Visit Nordstrom, Dilliards's, and Von Maur for in store purchasing. Check out STSblue.com to get a pair online!

STS Blue on Instagram: sts_blue
STS Blue on Twitter: @STS_Blue_Jeans
STS Blue on Facebook: ​https://www.facebook.com/STS-Blue-1701685060046969/?fref=ts

Special thanks to Liana Kelly who photographed me. This post wouldn't of been the same without her! I appreciate the help beyond words!

Follow Liana on Instagram: @lianavk

On October 6, 2016, I had the pleasure of hearing Mitch Albom speak at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. He presented a lecture titled “Giving is Living” and spoke about the significance of giving back to others. His lecture was passionate, raw, authentic and unforgettable. ​

Mitch Albom is a man of many trades; he is a best selling author, a sports journalist and broadcaster, and even a playwright and screenwriter. He is best known for the universally adored book, Tuesdays with Morrie. Tuesdays with Morrie is embedded in school systems everywhere and the themes of love, death, acceptance, friendship, and forgiving makes the story a modern-day classic.  He has also written  Five People You Meet In Heaven, For One More Day, Have A Little Faith, and The Time Keeper. His two most recent books are First Phone Call From Heaven and Magic Strings of Frankie Presto. 

Aside from the big heart Mitch displays in all of his books, his selflessness and compassion is present in his personal life. ​

Mitch Albom founded S.A.Y. Detroit (Super All Year) which is a charity that provides the basic human necessities so many people lack. Food, shelter, medical attention, and education is provided to those in need

Outside of the United States, he founded The Have Faith Haiti Mission. The Have Faith Haiti Mission provides shelter, food, education, and medical treatment to children who are abandoned. Giving children love, care, and security allows them to develop and grow.

Before I moved into my new school, I read online Mitch was coming to speak and I was THRILLED. I bought my ticket the first day I could. 

During his lecture, I was seeking the enlightenment of what is Albom’s work. I wanted to learn more on how to have a fulfilling and meaningful life.  I was even seeking closure and further information about Morrie. Albom delivered; giving background on how he met Morrie and the smaller details that made him and Morrie’s friendship so strong and unique.

Nerdy me, of course, brought a journal to note the points Mitch made that emotionally moved me. I want to share some with you.

One of the points that stuck with me was Mitch’s comment on Giving is Living. He stated that when a plane is going down, passengers contact their loved ones and say “I love you”. They’re giving them their love. They don’t ask for anything in return. Doing good for others is what makes us happy and fulfilled.

Mitch told a heartbreaking and beautiful story about the orphanage in Haiti he started. Parents or care givers who cannot take care of their children bring them there. While the child is meeting the other children, the parents or care giver quietly slips off while the child is occupied. When the child looks frantically around for the person, the other children comfort them and welcome them. The visualization of one child putting an arm around another to comfort them in a painful occurrence they have all dealt with moved me.

Mitch also told the story of Chica, an orphan from Haiti. After being unable to receive the proper medical care in Haiti, Mitch took her back to the United States. The love and compassion described and the bond presented moved the audience to tears. I cannot replicate Mitch's story but I will never forget it. 

“Albom connects intellect with emotion” - Rev Dr. Robert Lawrence 
(why you should read his work)

“The world cannot cater to one person” - Mitch 

“When you get to where I am, and you will, these won't matter” - Morrie
(Morrie to Mitch on materialistic lifestyles)
​
Mitch: “How do you keep from envying youth?”
Morrie: “Age isn’t a competition. Inside me is every age I’ve ever been”
Morrie: “You should be envious of me, I’ve got 40 years on you”

 "You have a voice. You have to use it. You have a voice, do something”
Morrie to Mitch

“I’ll make it to you. You talk, I’ll listen” - Morrie

“Death ends a life, not a relationship” - Mitch

“One thing you have is that voice. It makes you, you” - Morrie

“Follow your heart. It will never leave you astray” - Morrie

The night ended, the audience moved to tears, and with sore feet, I patiently waited in line to meet Mitch. I had mere seconds with him but his kindness and sense of welcoming was unforgettable. I was so glad that he was as excited to meet his fans as we were to meet him. He took the time to meet every person, even when the line continued to grow. He later responded to my Instagram photo and thanked me for coming to hear him speak.

Mitch Albom has been inspiring me since I first read his work and attending a lecture and meeting my inspiration was one of the best nights of my life. 

Thank you Mitch for continuing to move people and inspire us all. Thank you University of Massachusetts Dartmouth for hosting this lecture.

After the lecture, I joined Food Not Bombs Providence. I am now pursuing helping to fight hunger in areas with issues of homelessness and hunger.

To purchase books, donate to his organization, or to learn more
Visit  www.mitchalbom.com

​I was so fortunate to have been sent BFree Food to try. I previously had two roommates that ate gluten free and it was difficult for them to find food that was delicious and fit their dietary needs. I have tried GF food in the past, and the options are slim and most of the time, the food is less than tasty. I try to eat GF due to my own stomach issues and occasional stomach pain. I was thrilled to try BFree and share with you!

Recall my previous blog post about Food Not Bombs? If you didn't read it, find it here 
While attending the monthly Saturday Food Not Bombs Providence event, I decided to donate some of my BFree bread.

​Food Not Bombs serves community members Vegan and Vegetarian food. FNB serves ANYONE who is hungry with the one goal in mind; stop the hunger crisis in America. One of the dishes we made and served was a vegetable stew. Hungry gatherers took the BFree bread and dipped it in their stew. What a delicious and healthy meal; I love giving back to the community.

​Elliot Peters is a culinary major at Johnson and Wales University. I gave Elliot a slice of BFree Brown Seedless Sandwich Loaf and asked him to work his magic. This is the recipe he came up with...
​
Ingredients:

• BFree Brown seamless sandwich loaf
• Block of Parmesan cheese
• Modena Balsamic glaze
• Fresh ground black pepper
• Blow torch

​
Recipe:

1. Lightly toast the bread twice in a toaster so it is crunchy. Flip the bread after the first toast and toast the other side. (thank you, Thalia, for toasting it to perfection)
2. Spread Irish butter evenly on the toast
3. Grate fresh Parmesan cheese on the middle of the bread
4. CAREFULLY hit the toast with a blow torch
5. Sprinkle fresh cracked Black Pepper on the toast
6. Drizzle Modena Balsamic glaze on top.
7. Voila!

I am not Gluten Free and I can proudly say, I can't tell the difference between GF bread and bread with gluten. BFree Foods is absolutely delicious and I cannot wait to continue eating and trying all the products in the BFree family! If you or someone you know has an allergy or dietary concern, I strongly recommend BFree Foods! Delicious, nutritious, your  new favorite food!

​Find the BFree website here! ​

Picture Day. The day that makes or breaks your elementary school career. What you wear on that day says a lot about who you are and visually tells people about your personality, interests, and style. Your outfit reflects who you are.

When I was a child, I always liked clothing a little... too much. Dress up was a PAGEANT, a full-fledged event. I liked sticking out and being unique with my outfits. And, if someone had the same outfit on as me, I would lose my mind.

You can only imagine how appalled I was as a child when, on Picture Day, I had the same outfit on as many other girls

What's wrong with this picture?

So, here I am, a girl since day one that can’t get enough of clothes. Mixing strange pants and printed coats, playing with psychedelic patterns, defining my style each time I run to the mall. Essentially pouring my work tips out on the counter and saying, “Take. My. MONEY.”.

But what’s wrong with this? Can you guess? Some would say it’s my draining of my bank account. But I would say it’s something more.

Read it and weep (seriously... the tears are real)

According to Green Peace, 

• “One of the major sources of pollution is the fashion industry – with 68% of industrial facilities on the Upper Citarum producing textiles”
• “The printing and dyeing processes are particularly chemical intensive, and have contributed to the Citarum developing a reputation as one of the dirtiest rivers on earth.”
• “Greenpeace collected samples of wastewater…. and found the presence of a number of hazardous chemicals, including nonylphenol, antimony and tributylphosphate.”
• “wastewater discharged from one of the two smaller outfalls was highly alkaline
  (pH 14), which is highly caustic, will burn human skin coming into direct contact with the stream”

I had spent my days mindlessly shopping, making brainless decisions, picking purses and pumps, while NEVER taking in consideration on where the products come from and how they are made.

The Three R's Meet My Wardrobe

You heard it through school, you read it on your blue bins, do you take it in consideration? The Three R's: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

When the reality of what is happening to the planet just so I can buy socks sunk in, I HAD to make a change. How could I make sustainable and eco-friendly decisions while clothes shopping? I can't sew my own clothes. I can't go clean up pollution in outsourced countries. But I can do my part to not pour my money on the counter for a company that will damage Mother Earth. 

Problem Solving: Sustainability and Style at Savers and Salvation Army

I found a solution to my problems; shop at the places that recycle and create a style that cannot be duplicated. Some walk by Salvation Army and Saver's with their nose up, while I sprint towards them with several shopping carts.

Shopping at these places is a way for clothing to get a second chance
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We reuse and recycle the clothing instead of giving our money to companies that will outsource, mistreat workers, and destroy the environment and ecosystems. Simply not shopping at those places has an impact on our environment. Just like recycling plastic bottles and them being re-purposed into other items, shopping at these stores does a similar thing but for clothes. 

Shopping at these places stops me from pouring my change on the table
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Have you ever been shopping at a second hand store? $20 gets you far, let alone $50 or $100. You feel like absolute royalty prancing around the stores, with carts full of clothes, and hearing the cashier say "Your total is $45.72".

Pro Tip: Check out the websites of both places for deals like half-off Monday's. Also, donating clothes at Savers gets you a discount off your entire purchase. 

Create and Reinvent Yourself, Over and Over Again

If you're like me, you create your own unique look through your clothes. Shopping at Savers and Salvation Army allow you to do so and have clothing that not everyone is going to have. Shopping at traditional retail, you'll see your outfit on everyone and feel like just one of many copies. With the money you'll be saving, you'll be able to reinvent your style over and over again.


It's The Little Things

To wrap it up, making little changes makes a big difference. Yes, I still shop at traditional stores, but I do my best to make other shopping decisions. Whether it's an online yard sale site or a secondhand store, your shopping decisions can make a difference!
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Do Good, Feel Good, KEEP IT GREEN. 

Sweater: Savers
Doc Martens: Facebook Yard Sale site
Pants: My sister's
BCBG Purse: Hand-me-down 

Cardigan: Savers
Heels: Facebook Yard Sale site
Shirt and Pants: Kohls

Savers and Salvation Army haul

Pants: Savers
Blouse: Hand-me-down

Shirt: Marshall's
Pants: Hand-me-down
Dress: Target (2013)
Shoes: Dr Marten's

Dress: Rue 21
​Shors: Savers

Shorts: Rue 21
Shirt: Savers

“Nothing brings people together like food”

On October 10, 2016, I had the pleasure of joining my friends in volunteering with the organization “Food Not Bombs” in Providence, Rhode Island. When I first heard the name of the organization, I was automatically drawn in.

A Quick History Lesson

Food Not Bombs is an organization that brings kindness, respect, dignity, sustainability, and the community together while combating the issues of hunger within the homeless community. The organization first began in the 1980’s due to a public outcry asking “why are we paying for war but cannot feed those in need?”. Volunteers receive food donations from restaurants, bakeries, grocery stores and more that have a surplus of food.

From there, volunteers come together to cook and serve those in need of a hearty meal. Rather than the act of “dumpster diving”, homeless community members can be served the food that would originally hit the trash in a respectful manner.
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The organization serves vegan and vegetarian food to anyone who is hungry. There is no discrimination, no identification needed, and no judgement.

Chapters can be started in any location and I was fortunate to volunteer with the Providence chapter. Food Not Bombs stands for “Solidarity, not charity” and there is no hierarchy in the organization; everyone is equal.

Food Not Bombs is more well-known on the West Coast but it is hoped more chapters will be developed on the East Coast.

Listening to Laura

I had the pleasure of speaking to a volunteer named Laura. Laura is originally from Boston and is now living in Providence. She is 29 and is a member of the Providence chapter. Talking to Laura opened my eyes about the significance of the organization.

She was first attracted to Food Not Bombs due to the principles of the organization. She enjoys cooking and being with friends and creating a positive impact on others. She is proud to be providing this service because shelters cannot keep up with the demand for food and Food Not Bombs helps with this issue.

One thing Laura stated that truly impacted me was police officers usually don’t like the organization because it creates a large gathering of the homeless population. I was disgusted at the idea that Food Not Bombs is impacting and saving those less fortunate of hunger yet the view of a group of homeless people cause the police to want to break up the peaceful and gratitude-filled events.

Talking to Thalia

My best friend Thalia was the person who put Food Not Bombs on my mind and made me want to get involved. Thalia is 19 years old and is from Worchester. She currently lives in Providence and is a part of the Rhode Island Chapter. She helps publicize the organization through running the Facebook and Instagram accounts. She is also the creator and president of the Johnson and Wales club, The Style and Design Association (SDA).

Thalia was scanning the web for organization that SDA could volunteer their time to and stumbled upon Food Not Bombs. After being moved by the mission of Food Not Bombs, she became involved. She states, her “mind was blown” and was amazed with the volunteering and being around like-minded people who wanted to do good and to positively impact the lives of others. She instantly felt a connection to those involved. “Nothing brings people together like food”, she exclaimed.

In Thalia’s life, she has seen restaurants throw away food and has thought to herself, ‘why must it hit the trash rather than going to those who are hungry’? This being one of the reasons Food Not Bombs has attracted her to being involved. She affirmed, “people don’t think things are a problem unless it affects them”.

Do Good, Feel Good

After feeling moved by the mission, I HAD to get involved. I came to Providence on October 10th, Indigenous People’s Day. I met with all of the volunteers at Laura’s house and the cooking was in full swing. Vegetables being chopped, roasted, and diced. Stews and soups being prepped and boiled. Bags of vegetables being separated. I knew two people in the room of the house but by the end of cooking the meals, I felt like I gained a family.

We traveled to the Kennedy Plaza where the PRONK Festival was held. We served food such as apples with sweet potatoes, roasted beets, mixed green salads, bread with Nutella, and more. As a line grew and more and more people gathered, other organizations at the event donated food and trays. No person was turned down and EVERYONE received at least one plate of food.

One of my favorite parts of the event is guaranteeing those who are hungry will not be hungry tomorrow. We gave out bags of vegetables and salad mix as well as loaves of bread, peanut butter, rice packaged, and more. We offered everyone food to take home as well as food to share with their family and friends throughout the event.

As PRONK ended and the guests shuffled out, the homeless population still strayed at the Kennedy Plaza. There, we gave the rest of the food to whoever wanted some. It was comforting to see so much gratitude, thankfulness, and love by those who came to the Food Not Bombs tables and was given meals they may not have had if we were not there. Having my hand shook by strangers, praise and thanks booming throughout the day, and seeing how much we had impacted those who were in need… absolutely made my day.

Join the Revolution

If you are interested, please check out the Food Not Bombs Facebook page here
https://www.facebook.com/pvdfnb/?fref=ts

Hello, readers!
I am a member of the site BzzAgent and I was sent FREE L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Masks. After trying and testing them out, I wanted to tell you all about my experience and what I liked and disliked about them.

About the website

Bzzagent is a free site where you fill out surveys, are offered campaigns, and are sent free samples to review and “bzz” about. I have been sent BIC Soleil razors (which I LOVED) and I was recently sent the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Masks. 

About the Product

L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Masks come in three different types: Eucalyptus treatment mask, Red Algae treatment mask, and  Charcoal treatment mask. All three masks have different properties and have different effects. 


Eucalyptus Treatment Mask

The face mask I used first from the three pack was the Eucalyptus mask. The first aspect I noticed was how clean and fresh the scent was. The mask smells and feels like one you would receive at a professional spa. 

The directions state to apply a thin layer and leave for 10-15 minutes.The cycle should be repeated 3 times a week. As the face mask sits, it tightens on your skin. If you smile or laugh, it’ll crack. As this occurs, you feel fresh and clean. 

After the time passes, you wash the mask off with water. You’re left with clean, glowing and healthy skin. This is my favorite of the mask sets and worked very well with my oily skin and my acne .


Red Algae Treatment Mask

The Red Algae Treatment Mask also has a fresh scent and has a grainy quality. The directions state to apply a thin layer and leave for 10-15 minutes.The cycle should be repeated 3 times a week. When removing, wash with water and rubs in a circular motion to exfoliate. 

I really enjoyed this mask and I used it on my forehead and my chin. These are my spots where I frequently have acne. Removing it felt great and I could feel my skin exfoliate and become fresh and clean. 


Charcoal Treatment Mask

Not only did I try this mask, my boyfriend did. The directions state to apply a thin layer and leave for 10-15 minutes.The cycle should be repeated 3 times a week. The scent of the mask is very calming and fresh, leaving you feeling like you just stepped out of the spa.

I really enjoyed using this mask but it was my least favorite. My boyfriend and I were hoping the mask would harden and peel of the the skin and remove deep blackheads. The mask tightens and it is removed by washing it off with water. It doesn’t remove the tough and tricky blackheads but it leaves your skin clean and fresh.


Overall Thoughts and Tips


The L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Masks are products I am glad I tried and will buy again! Skip the spa, save some cash, and mix and match face masks from the comfort of your own home. I loved dedicating a lazy Sunday to a “me day”: I lit candles, got into cozy pajamas, and put on the masks while catching up on my favorite shows. The scent alone of the masks will put you in a calming state and the effects will have you feeling clean and fabulous. The L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Masks are definitely my favorite face masks I’ve tried and I will remain a repeat user. 

Some quick tips: Use a face cloth to remove the face masks. Use warm water while removing. Be very gentle while wiping, mostly when using the clay exfoliating mask. You skin may become red and blotchy if you're rough while removing.

Thank you, Bzzagent and L’Oréal Paris for allowing me to try and test these great products!

Cheers and Happy Sunday!