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Build Your Self Confidence With These Tips

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Build Your Self Confidence With These Tips

It is absolutely essential for us to take the time to build our self confidence as it can profoundly shape how we experience our lives. Self confidence is a huge factor in how people perceive themselves, their environment, and how they interact with others. When people have low self confidence or lack of it, they tend to be easily affected by external factors like criticism or failure. On the other hand, when someone has high self-esteem and confidence, they can handle life’s issues without giving into fear or stress. This article will explain why improving your self confidence is of cardinal importance and some practical steps you can take towards building more confidence in yourself:

The Benefits & Power Of Self Confidence:

When you have healthy and positive self-esteem, it allows you to believe in yourself and confront any challenges or obstacles that come your way. You are more likely to take risks and make bold decisions when you feel confident about yourself. Plus, having high levels of confidence enables you to live a happier, more fulfilled life since the assurance that comes with it helps you appreciate who you are and embrace your unique qualities. It has been proven that people with greater self confidence tend to be healthier physically as they’re better able to handle stressful events without breaking down from anxiety or depression.

Building Your Self Confidence:

Now that you know the power of self confidence and why you should strive to have it, let’s talk about practical steps to build your own:

Focus on positive affirmations: Start by consistently telling yourself that you are capable and worthy of success. Positive affirmations like “I am strong and powerful” or “I am a valuable person” will help increase your self-esteem and provide an emotional boost when needed.

Identify areas for growth: Take the time to analyze where you currently stand in terms of self confidence. If certain aspects of yourself could use some improvement, such as communication skills or public speaking ability, make a plan for how you will work on them.

Set achievable goals: Setting realistic and achievable goals is an essential part of building any level of self confidence. When you can see that your hard work is paying off, it will motivate you to keep going and also build a sense of pride in yourself. Choose tasks that you know are within your reach and build from there.

Practice self care: Taking the time to do something nice for yourself can help increase your self-esteem. Whether it’s taking a few minutes out of your day for meditation, treating yourself to a massage, or even allowing yourself some time away from technology, these small acts help remind us that we are deserving of love and care.

When you find acts of self care that really work for you, embrace it! Self care is a wonderful way to reward yourself and provides something to look forward to. If you’re like me, your favorite form of self care comes from being pampered. Scheduling regular appointments for hair, nails, or skin care treatments at a quality med spa can become that perfect self-care ritual. Whether you’re looking for services at Grand Blanc Med Spa or exploring options in your own area, prioritize locations with excellent reviews for their staff and expertise to ensure you get the rejuvenating experience you deserve.

Build relationships: Lastly, it’s important to surround yourself with positive people who will help motivate and encourage you. Having strong relationships with family and friends is essential for self confidence as it gives us a support system that can remind us of our greatness when we are feeling down.

Facing Your Insecurities:

Sometimes we have insecurities that can be difficult to face. Eczema is one such issue, and it can cause feelings of low self-esteem or embarrassment in those who suffer from it. Luckily, there are treatments available to help you manage eczema and improve your overall skin health. Creams and ointments containing corticosteroids are often used as eczema treatments as they can reduce inflammation and help soothe the skin. In addition, moisturizing on a regular basis is also very important in preventing eczema flare ups, as well as avoiding irritants like certain fabrics or chemicals that could worsen symptoms.

Feeling insecure in your body occasionally is completely normal. However, if you are constantly focusing on the areas you think need improvement, it can really effect your mental health. If this is the case for you, there is nothing taboo or wrong about seeking surgical or medical intervention. It could be finding a well reviewed surgeon to schedule a Facelift consultation with or getting medical help for weight loss. Whatever it may be, you don’t have to face your insecurities alone.

If you are considering surgery then that is wonderful. It means you are being proactive in finding solutions to raise your confidence and that should be celebrated. The most important thing you can do in this situation is to find a surgeon you are completely comfortable with. You might have to shop around to find the best fit for you but doing so will ensure your full confidence in the surgeon and their ability to complete your procedure safely. To begin researching surgeons, simply enter a search for “Plastic Surgery in New Orleans” (or your local area) and be sure to seek advice from your doctor too. Your GP might have just the surgeon in mind for you!

Participate in activities that make you feel good:

This step is all about learning to do something for yourself and having fun! Choose activities that make you feel happy, such as reading a book, listening to your favorite music, or taking a yoga class. Doing things that bring joy into your life can have an incredibly positive impact on your self confidence.

Having self confidence can give you the power to keep pushing forward when faced with any hurdles or obstacles. With dedication and commitment, anyone can learn how to build their self-esteem and appreciate themselves for who they are. Remember that it’s okay to take time for yourself and practice some self care; after all, taking care of yourself should always come first!

Featured Image By: Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

Surprise Vacation

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Surprise Vacation

Hello!! After writing about my desire to achieve a better work/life balance, I had the opportunity to put my money where my mouth is. However, it wasn’t for a great reason. Unfortunately, my parents tested positive for Covid last Tuesday and I genuinely have no idea where they got it from. Thankfully, both of their symptoms were quite mild and they are on the up and up!

Usually, I am at my parents house almost every day of the week for work or just hanging out. Of course, that wasn’t a possibility while my parents were sick and I miss them and my brother terribly! The first day I couldn’t come over, I honestly didn’t know what to do with myself and the free time that fell in my lap. I felt bad all week that I was lounging in the comfort of my home but I also knew that there was nothing else to be done until there were negative tests all around.

During my Surprise Vacation, I caught up on my sleep a lot. Since the beginning of the new year, I have been waking up between 4:45 and 5 every morning to take care of the bunnies, get myself ready for work, work from home, then go to my other job. It was exhausting but necessary, especially as I started a new online gig. During my break, I was able to sleep in until… Drum roll, please… SIX O’CLOCK and it was awesome! I didn’t know how much I needed that extra sleep until I actually got it and it was just what I needed to rejuvenate myself. The extra sleeping in sessions also made it much easier to get up early again when I had morning clients.

I got a lot of work done online during my staycation and I also had time for extra cleaning, cooking, and enjoying some TV time before Johnny returned from work. You already know I watched lots of Hoarders while Melvin and Penelope romped around their bunny-proofed area. I also binged the first half of the new season of You in one afternoon flat. I can’t remember the last time I was able to do that and it felt so good to have a binge-watching session with a show just for me. Also, can we please talk about how freaking crazy that show is? Lol freaking Joe Goldberg, dude.

As wonderful as my mini work vaca was, I was ready for it to be over each day because I missed being able to hug my parents and brother. I can’t wait for negative tests so I can get back to my normal schedule feeling as refreshed as I have been in weeks!

How do you relax during time off? What did you think of the new season of You? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Valentine’s Day Date Night OOTD Bloopers

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Valentine’s Day Date Night OOTD Bloopers

Hello everyone and welcome to the blooper reel from my Valentine’s Day Date Night OOTD! Johnny and I had the most marvelous V-Day seeing Hadestown at Playhouse Square and there has not been a moment since the show that I haven’t been thinking about it. It was the best and the soundtrack is currently mine and Johnny’s soundtrack for doing just about anything – cleaning, running errands, working from home. It has yet to get old!

Our theater experience was awe inspiring. Now, let me inspire you with these blooper shots that might not invoke awe but somewhere between “woof” and “yikes”! Let’s get to it:

You like me, you really like me!

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Had a little moment getting caught up in my skirt but…

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I NAILED THE NEXT SHOT! Obvi 😉

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I LOOK GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!

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About to make some magic happen with this faux fur…

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It didn’t go accordingly to plan. -_-

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FE FI FO FUM

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Coming in hot here…

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The phone has been acquired! Great success! 😀

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Bloopers bloopers are no fun, unless you share them with everyone! Or however that saying goes! Honestly, mine and Johnny’s whole experience before the show was a blooper in itself. We were going to go to my favorite restaurant, Pepper’s, for dinner and arrived to find it jam packed. I didn’t even think to make a reservation because the last few times I have been, a table was always ready. This was fine, though, because there are plenty of great restaurants in the area we were in so we decided to go to Angelo’s for pizza, instead…

And we couldn’t even find a parking space! At this point, we were both getting annoyed because we were tipping the scales to hangry levels. Every single restaurant I looked up would have been fine for Johnny but not for me because the vegetarian options were so limited. Taco Bell didn’t even sound like a good option because the last thing I wanted was to sit in our fancy-wear at the T-Bell. I wanted an actual sit down dinner with my main squeeze.

By the time all of our options were considered, we were drastically running out of time to eat and make it to the show. We settled for a Tex-Mex restaurant whose name I already forget and it was… Meh. On the bright side, Johnny really enjoyed himself lol! He loved his food and I barely picked at mine so I was still hungry when we got to the theater. Thankfully, Hadestown was so good that I forgot the hunger pangs as soon as it began!

Our mad blooper dash that evening was all but forgotten as we settled into our seats but it was worth remembering now for old time’s sake! Keep it posted for more OOTDs and fun here on lifewithlilred! ❤

What happens when you get hangry? What is your favorite local restaurant? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Valentine’s Day Date Night OOTD

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Valentine’s Day Date Night OOTD

Hello! This past weekend, Johnny and I enjoyed a wonderful Valentine’s Day date night seeing Hadestown at Playhouse Square. Dressing for the theater is one of my favorite things and Playhouse Square is, arguably, one of the fanciest places I have ever been to. This means that it is essential to show out and it is such fun to see what everyone else deems as theater appropriate at the show. For my V-Day/theater OOTD, I wanted to create an ultra sophisticated look with a few sexy surprises to keep things interesting. This is what I came up with and I felt like a star:

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Who? What? Wear?

To begin styling this look, I started with my maxi skirt from Target. This little number is as old as the hills but it is one of my favorites and I love the slip to sheer set up. The slip cuts off at the mid thigh and the bare legs added some sex appeal without taking away from the overall romance of the skirt. While I love a sweet and cute V-Day OOTD, I wanted a “dark romance” theme for a nighttime look and this skirt as the base allowed me to accomplish it.

I wanted this skirt to read more like a dress and the obvious choice was pairing it with my cami top from French Rooster. Now, I am well aware that I use this top in many an OOTD… And I have yet to see a problem with it! There was a time when I wanted to wear all new to my viewers pieces for each OOTD post and that was fine but not necessarily true to the way I get dressed. I do have a lot of key pieces that I not only love wearing but are easy to build outfits with and the French Rooster top is one of them. Believe me, I rolled my eyes when I selected this top yet again but it’s not a bad thing. Rather, it just shows its versatility as it can compliment a multitude of different styles.

One of the best things about Playhouse Square is that after a brief walk in the parking garage, you aren’t outside at all as a connecting bridge takes you to the theater. Knowing this, I decided to throw caution to the wind and not wear a coat once the base of my outfit was settled. Yes, it was a bit cold out but there are some outfits that I just hate to cover with a coat and this was one of them. I also wanted to let my tattoos air out since they have been covered up all winter! So, all I had to do was move onto accessories.

For the shoes, I went with my pointed toe kitten heels by Nine West. Although these are not the most exciting pair that I own, I think that they are so sweet and the skirt blended effortlessly into them. The bejeweled band going across the top is also everything and added some blingy fun. These heels were the perfect height and got me at the ideal level off of the ground so that my skirt wasn’t dragging. What a faux pas that would have been, amiright?!

To complete the outfit, it was time for final touches. First, I chose my faux fur collar by St. Tropez. There is nothing like some faux fur to elevate a look for the theater. It brings the drama from the stage to the outfit and bonus points if it is in a unique color like this dusty lavender! Since the fur took up a lot of real estate near my neck and shoulders, I went for small dangly earrings to add some movement and bring attention back to my face.

There still felt like there was something missing after most of the accessories had been decided on, though. While the faux fur collar does do a fairly good job of covering things up on top, it still comes open. So, for a peekaboo surprise, I added my gold lock necklace by Michael Kors. It fell at just the right length and the flash of gold was exactly what I needed to feel fully satisfied with this OOTD!

Johnny and I have spent two Valentine’s Days at Playhouse Square and it is my new favorite tradition. Two date nights, two shows, two fabulous looks. So there for it!

How did you celebrate Valentine’s Day? What is your favorite thing to dress for? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

 

Pursue Your Dream Career With These Tips

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Pursue Your Dream Career With These Tips

Pursuing your goals to land your dream job takes dedication and hard work. There is so much that goes into following your dreams, but don’t let that stop you from making them into reality. Giving up a career to pursue something you really want should not be taken lightly, but it can be done if you have the passion and dedication for it. Here are four tips to help get you started on your journey toward a dream career:

Know Yourself & Your Goals:

Before you even begin the process of pursuing your dream job, it is important that you take some time for self-reflection. Consider what your goals are, what kind of lifestyle you want, and how this job fits into those goals. Knowing yourself and understanding your goals will help guide the decisions you make about what kind of job you want to pursue. Write down your goals and create a plan of action to achieve them; this way, you can stay motivated and focused on the path toward your dream job.

Research Companies & Industries:

Once you have a clear understanding of who you are and what your goals are, it is time to research companies and industries that align with those goals. Take some time to explore different industries and pick out specific companies that interest you. Doing this research will help give you an idea of what types of jobs these companies offer and any potential opportunities that could arise in the future. In addition, researching and familiarizing yourself with a company before applying can give you an edge over other applicants.

Build Your Network:

Networking is key when it comes to finding your dream job! Building relationships with people in the industry who may have access to job opportunities or insight into hiring processes is important. Joining professional organizations or attending networking events such as conferences or seminars is a great way to meet new people who may be able to help further your career path. In addition, utilizing social media platforms like LinkedIn can also be an effective way of connecting with potential employers or recruiters who may know about jobs that aren’t posted publicly yet.

You should remember that building a network doesn’t just pertain to the industry or even the workplace you’ve been looking to apply to. You need to have a good support network, especially if you have a family. Using the Care.com reviews to determine the right childcare and support help for your family is going to open that door to the career you’ve always wanted. You need to have a village around you to remember that you are a whole person and if you have dreams, you should pursue them. You just need the right support to do it.

Stay Up To Date On Trends & Industry News:

In today’s ever-evolving job market, staying up to date on industry trends and news is important to stay ahead of the competition. Subscribing to relevant publications, blogs, or newsletters can help you gain valuable insight into what’s happening in the industry. For example, if you’re interested in pursuing a career in the medical industry, you can learn a lot from Hanid Audish DO. Industry experts like this can give you a valuable look into the job market and what positions are in demand.

Pursuing your dream job can be a long process, but it is possible. By following these steps, you will be setting yourself up for success. Good luck!

Featured Image By: Pexels

What To Do If Your Career Seems To Be Stalling

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What To Do If Your Career Seems To Be Stalling

Do you feel as though your professional life is in a rut? Are you having trouble deciding what to do next or do you not see any opportunities for advancement? If so, you are not alone. This feeling is one that many people have at least once in their careers. Getting your career back on a more positive track doesn’t have to be difficult, and you shouldn’t put it off if a change is needed. Here are some steps to take if your career seems to be stalling:

Reassess your goals:

Reevaluating your career goals requires taking a step back. Are they still the same as when you first started working? Do you still need to reevaluate your goals or have you already achieved everything you set out to do? Think things through, consider your current goals, and decide whether they align with where you want to go.

Talk to your supervisor:

It’s crucial to speak with your supervisor if you feel trapped in your current position. Express your worries and seek suggestions on how you can do better. Your boss might be able to offer you new opportunities or make suggestions for how to advance within the organization. Your manager might be able to advise you on what to do next if there are no growth opportunities at your company.

Take on new responsibilities:

If your current position doesn’t offer you any chances to advance, you might want to think about accepting more responsibility. This can demonstrate to your employer that you’re dedicated to your work and ready to take on new challenges. Seek out opportunities to volunteer for or accept more duties that will allow you to gain new skills.

Seek out training and development opportunities:

Finding training and development opportunities is another way to launch your career. This can entail going to workshops, enrolling in online classes, or earning certifications. You can take on new challenges and prove your value to your employer by learning new skills.

Build up your personal brand:

You will be in a competitive job market, so you must stand out. Take time out to build your personal brand. Share industry insights wherever possible and update your LinkedIn profile. You could even start a blog about your experience and expertise. With a strong online presence, you can open up lots of different doors and attract new opportunities. There are all kinds of resources online, such as a PHP Agency review, that can provide insight into how individuals market themselves in their careers. If you can position yourself as a knowledgeable professional with a proactive attitude, you will increase your chances of being noticed. Potential employers and clients will be impressed by what they see.

If personal branding is an area you are struggling in, that’s okay as there is a lot of help available and it should be utilized. This is a very important aspect of growth in your career or if you are considering switching things up. Resources like https://rockstardeveloperuniversity.com, for example, give you a crash course on personal branding, leadership, and using online content to your advantage. The skills taught can not only help boost your career but your confidence too as you will learn how to put your best face and knowledge forward.

Network:

Developing your network is essential for career advancement. Establish relationships with individuals in your industry by going to networking events. This can assist you in discovering new employment possibilities and connecting with individuals who might be able to aid you in advancing your career. You can also look to successful people who have already reached the goals you want to achieve. If you work in sales and want to improve, look at the strategies and success of someone like Hussain al Nowais.

Consider a career change:

It might be time to think about a career change if you’ve tried everything listed above and are still not seeing any opportunities for growth within your current job. Look for employment opportunities that fit your interests and skill set. To learn about new opportunities, get in touch with recruiters and go to job fairs.

It’s important to feel rewarded and fulfilled in your career, and the tips above will help you take your skills to the next level!

Featured Image By: PXHere

Tips For A Low Maintenance Garden This Spring

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Tips For A Low Maintenance Garden This Spring

Love the idea of a garden but don’t want to put in the work? You’re not alone! Luckily, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your garden and breathe fresh life into your landscape design with minimal effort. Here are some tips to add a low maintenance garden to your home:

Make a Plan:

Before jumping into any project, you need a practical plan and a landscape design. What do you want your end result to look like – is it lush greenery or a nice patio area with potted plants? Will a full garden makeover be possible on your budget? If not, what is possible to achieve on the budget that you have? Do you have the intention of doing the upkeep? Even with a low maintenance garden, it will still need regular TLC. If the answer to that question is a no, you might want to enter a search for “landscaper in Heath, TX” (or your local area) to find an excellent landscaping crew to maintain your garden’s beauty.

Choose Suitable Plants:

The first step in creating a no-fuss garden is choosing plants suitable for your climate. Choose drought-tolerant plants such as succulents, cacti, wildflowers, and native grasses. These types of plants require little watering and can survive with minimal care. It would help if you also looked into low-maintenance trees such as palms, cypresses, or junipers that won’t need pruning or trimming every few months. You can always get a local tree service to help maintain your trees if you don’t have the time or energy.

Consider Synthetic Grass:

Synthetic grass might be the perfect option if you’re looking for a grassy area but don’t want to maintain it. Artificial turf requires no mowing or water, making it easy to manage. Plus, good quality synthetic grass can last up to twenty years without replacement.

Try Vertical Gardens:

Vertical gardens are a great way to bring a little greenery into your home without wasting too much space or effort. You can install wall-mounted planters and hang them in any area with direct sunlight, such as on the side of your house or balcony. All they need is watering and pruning now and then, and you will have a beautiful garden all year round.

Invest in Quality Soil:

Good soil quality is essential for any garden. Invest in quality topsoil enriched with organic matter like compost or mulch. This will ensure that your plants get the nutrients they need to thrive in your area. It’s also essential to choose soil that drains well as this will help prevent root rot in case of heavy rain or flooding. Finally, raise the beds slightly so water can quickly drain away from the roots during heavy rains.

Add Paving Stones and Paths:

Paving stones are a great way to create pathways through your garden without constantly maintaining them. Look for natural stone pavers that blend in with the existing landscape and require little upkeep over time. Additionally, adding stepping stones throughout your garden will help keep weeds down while providing easy access between yard sections without regularly mowing grassy areas. You can also add benches and other furniture to create seating areas in the garden.

Creating a beautiful outdoor space doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a bit of effort upfront, you can enjoy a stress-free outdoor area year-round!

Featured Image By: Pixabay

5 Simple Methods To Properly Manage A Chronic Illness

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5 Simple Methods To Properly Manage A Chronic Illness

It can be challenging to properly manage a chronic illness at first. But it is possible to live a healthy and fulfilling life by taking proper care of it. Here is how you can help yourself out with these simple tips:

Pay Attention to Your Medication:

When you first get sick, it can be strange to have to take so many medications. People with epilepsy and diabetes have to follow their doctors’ orders very carefully. Otherwise, you can experience severe consequences. An online pharmacy like The Canadian Drug Store is a godsend if you can’t move around much, live in a remote area, or can’t get out for other reasons. You can easily order what you need and have it brought right to your door.

Listen to Your Doctor:

If you have a chronic illness, your doctor may suggest medications, therapies, or changes to your way of life to help you deal with it. In many cases, it’s important to carefully follow their advice and take your medicines as they say. And if you have questions or worries about your treatment plan, don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor or nurse about them. You’ll never be turned away if you ask about it.

Educate Yourself:

It can be very helpful to learn as much as you can about a condition you have. It can help you understand why your doctor wants you to make changes and cut down on the 25% of hospital stays that happen every year because people don’t do what they’re told. You can easily find reliable sources online. Or make positive changes with support from groups.

Keep a Journal of Activities:

Keeping track of your symptoms and any changes can be beneficial. You can then give this information to your doctor, who can use it to make any necessary changes to your treatment plan. The easiest way to do this is to write down your symptoms every day in a notebook or an app. Write down how bad each symptom is and if there are any things, like foods or activities, that make it worse.

Look After Yourself:

This is probably something you’ve heard a thousand times. But living a healthy life can help you deal with the symptoms of a long-term illness. This means eating a healthy, balanced diet, working out regularly, and getting enough sleep. All of these are good ways to deal with stress. Also, it’s always good to avoid bad habits like smoking and drinking too much alcohol. You may also need to stay away from foods or activities that make your symptoms worse or start them.

It can be challenging physically and emotionally to properly manage a chronic illness. Use the tips above to make things a little easier on yourself!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Lil Red’s Book Club: The Villa By Rachel Hawkins Edition

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Lil Red’s Book Club: The Villa By Rachel Hawkins Edition

Hello!! The last book that I read was called Verity and it sucked EGGS. It was quite possibly the worst thing that I have ever read and I thought I would go insane if I didn’t read something else to eliminate the bad taste from my mouth. To remedy this, I cracked open the brand new Rachel Hawkins novel called The Villa and finished it in a matter of days. I have read a few books by Hawkins before and have always enjoyed them and The Villa was just right for what I needed: A palette cleanser. Was it my favorite book by her? No. But it served its purpose well. 

Before we begin our spoiler free review, I will be placing a trigger warning on The Villa for murder, violence, and the loss of a child. Now, let’s get to it:

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Emily and Chess have been besties since grade school and are still thick as thieves into their mid-thirties. Well… Sort of. While Emily found moderate success in writing cozy murder mysteries, Chess soared to fame as a self-help guru making their communication sporadic but still wonderful when it happens. As Chess enjoyed her newfound wealth and guest starred on Oprah, Emily was riding the struggle bus. A mystery illness left Emily incapacitated for months, which triggered her husband leaving her and insisting on a significant chunk of her earnings as an author.

At one of their few yearly meetings, Chess can sense Emily’s stress over lunch and comes up with a solution: A best friends summer in Italy. There, they can soak up the sun, have fun, and finish the books that they both have due. With nothing tying her to the home she once shared with her husband, Emily agrees and hops on a plane to meet Chess at the gorgeous Villa Aestas. The villa is tucked away in scenic Orvieto and it seems like the perfect place to enjoy each other’s company and work when they felt like it! Oh yeah, it was also the perfect place for murder.

In the 1970s, Villa Aestas was called the Villa Rosato and it housed a group of artists for the summer. Noel Gordon, an infamous rock star invited his faithful drug dealer, Johnnie, as well as the up and coming musician Pierce Sheldon and his girlfriend Mari and her stepsister named Lara to the villa. What promised to be a summer of Pierce taking his talent to the next level was anything but. Drugs and booze limited the amount of music Noel and Pierce made and the girls ended up with the fame. That summer, Mari wrote her first horror novel, Lilith Rising, and Lara made her first album, Aestas. Their holiday ended with Mari and Lara completing their masterpieces while Pierce ended up six feet under at the hands of Johnnie.

Staying in a “murder house” doesn’t particularly thrill Emily but the villa is beautiful and she is excited to be with Chess. During a low key day, Emily looks for something to read and cracks open Lilith Rising. As she reads, she noticed striking similarities between the book and the summer that the author spent at the same villa. She even finds references from the book in the house itself, like an etching on the glass by Mari’s desk. Was Lilith Rising something Mari made up off of the top of her head, or was it an autobiography of what truly happened at Villa Rosato that summer almost fifty years ago?

As Emily begins researching and writing about the Villa Rosato murder, she becomes increasingly paranoid of Chess. Emily wants this book and the success she knows it will achieve to herself. Chess, however, has other plans as well as secrets that Emily couldn’t conjure up in her wildest dreams. What will become of the best friends staying in a home that the locals call “cursed” all summer? Read The Villa to find out!

The Villa was, in my opinion, not Rachel Hawkins’ best but it was still a decent read. I can imagine that her books are perfect for reading by a pool – they’re not especially gruesome, intriguing enough, and peppered with humor that makes me lol. Not groundbreaking by any means, but pretty fun! I enjoyed the way The Villa was set up as it went back and forth between Emily in present day and Mari in 1970. Articles and scripts of podcasts discussing the Rosato murder were interspersed for good measure as well, which is also something I always like.

The characters in The Villa were just alright. I found Emily to be kind of bland while Chess was fairly annoying with her new age BS about the “powered path”. I definitely enjoyed reading what was going on in the 70s more than the present day. It was a much darker tale and I felt so sorry for Mari and Lara as they navigated their summer with these boys who didn’t seem to care about them one way or the other. I would have liked to root for Mari more, however, the flamboyant and sarcastic Noel was my primary focus. He sounded hot AF and I think we can all agree that he was inspired by the incomparable Noel Fielding!

Although there were a lot of interesting points to the general plot of The Villa, it still felt like something that I had heard before. There were no twists and turns that left me shook and I didn’t feel a sense of companionship with any of the key players. It certainly cleansed my palette from the last book I read and for that I am grateful. It just didn’t hit as hard as The Wife Upstairs or Reckless Girls, which left me feeling disappointed overall.

I am going to award The Villa with a five and a half out of ten stars. Rachel Hawkins is much better than this book and I would recommend skipping this one in lieu of one of her other novels!

What are you currently reading? What should I read next? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

 

At Home Watercolor Painting Class

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At Home Watercolor Painting Class

Hey!! Way back in July of last year, I took a watercolor painting class with my mom and sister and it was so much fun. It was a blast to spend time together learning something new and we had a great teacher – the amazing Ana of Falcon Grove Studio. After a long and highly stressful handful of months, I decided that we could all use a treat. So, I had Ana come to the family home to teach a watercolor masterclass to my mom, Kristen, Val Gal, and me. We passed a wonderful afternoon getting back in touch with our creative sides as Ana guided us through some Valentine’s Day projects. Take a look at mine:

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For our class, we worked on painting roses which used a lot of techniques that were new to us. It has been a long while since I painted watercolor because the shit had hit the fan and I was definitely rusty, as you can see. BUT it was still really fun and it was cool to have the class from the kitchen table! Ana is such a knowledgeable, patient, and kind teacher and it was special to have her do a class just for us. Our roses might not have turned out the best, but everything was coming up roses all afternoon as we painted.

After finally painting watercolor again, my mom and I remembered why we enjoyed it so much in the first place. We are both looking forward to retrying our hand at the roses this week when I bring my supplies over during an afternoon off. I think it’s safe to say that we have a lot of room for improvement and it’s nice to feel motivated to give watercolor another go now that things have settled down a bit. Ana gave us the know how for watercolor roses and my goal is to make a painting of a bouquet after more practice. 😀

I am so happy that all of my best girls were able to participate in the watercolor class and it was the perfect Galentine’s Day/prebirthday celebration for my mom get together. Hopefully I will have a lot more watercolor paintings to share with all of you soon!

Have you ever taken an art class before? What makes a good teacher? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah