Greetings from Granada

A bright hello from Andalucia...I am currently touring the magnificent city of Granada, set against the glorious Sierra Nevada mountains. While here, I visited the awe-inspiring Alhambra Palace, a World Heritage Site built in the 14 century, boasting elaborate Moorish architecture and idyllic gardens on a vast complex that overlooks the entire city. <br /><br /><br /><br />One could only imagine what the palace must have been like centuries ago while in its prime. Royalty weaving their way through the extensive hallways, echos of laughter, secrets and debate heard through the ornately carved stucco walls, golden honeycomb domes shadowing polished marbled floors, poetic gardens painted with shades of eden, beautiful queens dripping with diamonds and the king sitting upon his lofty throne. <br /><br /><br /><br />Alhambra translates as 'Red Castle' in Arabic, a name given to it due to the reddish tinge on the palace walls. The original colour has faded over the years, along with some of the ornamented interiors - lost to weather, wars and the sands of time. The building is still in excellent condition and has been well restored. It is a perfect example of Spain's rich and decorative history and has to be one of the most impressive ancient marvels that the country has to offer.<br /><br /><br /><br />These are some photos I took of the palace and the surrounding gardens. <br /><br /><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8AGwNWk06_2W6XYutpyFCSI9KO_-Tm3GTUaRvUipFoOSTqsXyrM4OJm8FhVImvYrCzBVoLeuVGh4oPNWXjfCVvyhj0Mx6zyL-5rHiKTxADhptOXvm_M7ZBVab5VZaAHLzIaRVV-6O_pt/s640/blogger-image-1112514001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip8AGwNWk06_2W6XYutpyFCSI9KO_-Tm3GTUaRvUipFoOSTqsXyrM4OJm8FhVImvYrCzBVoLeuVGh4oPNWXjfCVvyhj0Mx6zyL-5rHiKTxADhptOXvm_M7ZBVab5VZaAHLzIaRVV-6O_pt/s640/blogger-image-1112514001.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQXfj9Iik_6IOk-9ZDsDq-8FmpN_2hyphenhyphen9vlIG32Wr9QhwQtvDXYYnnQaPpEQVCCq2MAr2qdkvnGKKKq7HatBvF02uLKO9JJAzDxkOr2v-KaiEHw15NGdesv3tObxFhHerSrZjdxwCOi7pL/s640/blogger-image-193822006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQXfj9Iik_6IOk-9ZDsDq-8FmpN_2hyphenhyphen9vlIG32Wr9QhwQtvDXYYnnQaPpEQVCCq2MAr2qdkvnGKKKq7HatBvF02uLKO9JJAzDxkOr2v-KaiEHw15NGdesv3tObxFhHerSrZjdxwCOi7pL/s640/blogger-image-193822006.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTEo3k8TkjSjO7-qmss6Y8EJacEBXev72bCX37GibI_vY9PGY4cXM0Dp3WMSFYdyPbxZZiyZF6L_CO-iWtG8je02nfAXasj0Z-08FVr88bYzNd9okIBnb_SUFdUfp0qG0Agy4DJ2YfbeCn/s640/blogger-image--880253833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTEo3k8TkjSjO7-qmss6Y8EJacEBXev72bCX37GibI_vY9PGY4cXM0Dp3WMSFYdyPbxZZiyZF6L_CO-iWtG8je02nfAXasj0Z-08FVr88bYzNd9okIBnb_SUFdUfp0qG0Agy4DJ2YfbeCn/s640/blogger-image--880253833.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsxeC0zPQIoqdRDQXiYKN3qylod7GQa9fA6YIsMeJHo6Z3a46s5kdFntlgqs8RCdYy2npFFSYbJXLtqRraE1kQpqgXo96K0pH5OupL6gcfhngSI3gEsbCTMkrE2mawrBfHOuxfwHsQ9d8/s640/blogger-image--110200434.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsxeC0zPQIoqdRDQXiYKN3qylod7GQa9fA6YIsMeJHo6Z3a46s5kdFntlgqs8RCdYy2npFFSYbJXLtqRraE1kQpqgXo96K0pH5OupL6gcfhngSI3gEsbCTMkrE2mawrBfHOuxfwHsQ9d8/s640/blogger-image--110200434.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCCvIFTjWXQ_gLtblN3sZtnCnZM2w24gVHx-P7XAVX0pRifOjqUJKJoHdJs33uc5xU7MLuyFZojoWNAUp8rQ1i53szymR2nIU4TfDLxtGpCSDFWx1cyqidYmqODUA3PYzctR_e_7blMJBb/s640/blogger-image-1764727649.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCCvIFTjWXQ_gLtblN3sZtnCnZM2w24gVHx-P7XAVX0pRifOjqUJKJoHdJs33uc5xU7MLuyFZojoWNAUp8rQ1i53szymR2nIU4TfDLxtGpCSDFWx1cyqidYmqODUA3PYzctR_e_7blMJBb/s640/blogger-image-1764727649.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWsHzn9lboYZsxaSBwCW95wSSmSD-T8L_Ks3sO2_X4YW4QgsZQpmCbzzDY_v6GiWF4PDK0fdv1F07DAbV5elJV4P3zDkIIq1AF_GuSoK7OaokkdvOrg35Dzr41pSuUj8jhcf-FNvPj-DgG/s640/blogger-image--776918190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWsHzn9lboYZsxaSBwCW95wSSmSD-T8L_Ks3sO2_X4YW4QgsZQpmCbzzDY_v6GiWF4PDK0fdv1F07DAbV5elJV4P3zDkIIq1AF_GuSoK7OaokkdvOrg35Dzr41pSuUj8jhcf-FNvPj-DgG/s640/blogger-image--776918190.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZ73ZR02Sj_Hf2VAPTi06Ot6FvvATlA2eAfXWm-g9QYLFAjwMXkXuDu26_nVkzkIgAtqnno9Oq7QL47LPK1H74zixKOyHSXaPyQjQmkGhEanAiR96EYRDbng7Qo04xYQLf-OH5RBpMdhK/s640/blogger-image-754233159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZ73ZR02Sj_Hf2VAPTi06Ot6FvvATlA2eAfXWm-g9QYLFAjwMXkXuDu26_nVkzkIgAtqnno9Oq7QL47LPK1H74zixKOyHSXaPyQjQmkGhEanAiR96EYRDbng7Qo04xYQLf-OH5RBpMdhK/s640/blogger-image-754233159.jpg" /></a></div>

Greetings from Granada

A bright hello from Andalucia...I am currently touring the magnificent city of Granada, set against the glorious Sierra Nevada mountains. Wh...

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A McQ Summer 2012

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Summer isn't always about pretty florals and floaty sundresses. At least not according to the vision Sarah Burton has for <i>McQ</i> by Alexander McQueen. The contemporary label brings forth high end designs at a more affordable price, with clothes that retain that unique McQueen edge, but without the theatrics. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For Spring/Summer 2012, the McQ collection takes a ride on the Texan side, with a few Western inspired looks set in red, black and white, with all the elements of a high fashion rodeo. Floral embroidered shirts, ribbon-tied collars, tailored blazers, cropped cigarette pants and dashes of two-tone denim. A more feminine appeal comes in form of ruffled and A-line skirts, bound by wide leather belts.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The range then dips into animal print pastels in soft pink and powder blue, laid upon pencil skirts, peplums, button-up shirts and bodycon tops. Metallics make an appearance in burnished red palliates, lustrous silver cocktail wear and and flaired out pewter skirts. A vintage twist on trends, this McQ collection will take you from a country music festival, to the office, onto a weekend away, and to a glitzy party </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">and back again.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbfF4j68PfswtQOnZZDAw-7mXg4pIpDNe04ZkTLBO2u9Lo3Q9Ep-OlrHXeqYTLAD_uBgV-s3sYGDkVn4-stk_jD78YpF4NadsXO_L3xeDt5HKGEX_kHL3g6tVqD6fI6nqnhQ2CeT4Vpf3Q/s1600/mc1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbfF4j68PfswtQOnZZDAw-7mXg4pIpDNe04ZkTLBO2u9Lo3Q9Ep-OlrHXeqYTLAD_uBgV-s3sYGDkVn4-stk_jD78YpF4NadsXO_L3xeDt5HKGEX_kHL3g6tVqD6fI6nqnhQ2CeT4Vpf3Q/s640/mc1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrqJsR6G21_LETtvic2xc2iTvf8jeVmKgdQLENpYwJ1sBfjvpj3bZxtU7WTzvXaL4XKiZFUCo4SJqLUQlGcuJ30kzphKtOgGiDxpVmeRhlGE-2fl8-eRYvsMWO4ZCLi6EV4CIZyKJ2XfRU/s1600/mcq2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrqJsR6G21_LETtvic2xc2iTvf8jeVmKgdQLENpYwJ1sBfjvpj3bZxtU7WTzvXaL4XKiZFUCo4SJqLUQlGcuJ30kzphKtOgGiDxpVmeRhlGE-2fl8-eRYvsMWO4ZCLi6EV4CIZyKJ2XfRU/s640/mcq2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvMRp6h-bkn-WzjSqWiAswwn5UVF-a1rKlN_k_Yj0LCbWOCkdZyZfEum0sQyIji6lP2f4c4tpvn_wfEj1_dJ24e-P2VHz08K3k34QZGfbXJF2JO9qRzVqu5lhHf2hNu4XXsfJwaj2W4VD2/s1600/mcq3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvMRp6h-bkn-WzjSqWiAswwn5UVF-a1rKlN_k_Yj0LCbWOCkdZyZfEum0sQyIji6lP2f4c4tpvn_wfEj1_dJ24e-P2VHz08K3k34QZGfbXJF2JO9qRzVqu5lhHf2hNu4XXsfJwaj2W4VD2/s640/mcq3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKYWAdReLYyvnmiGRcwMEn1Y6oqxLAx2PmDzPHdhnwPCs_b8T6wOitxNbDFJLk-JOaazaNBfJhWuzrdaNpyaVzdy16u7In3VQGgViZ-4gTVRe9aJXiasagIbbCKtC2AOXxftdlK-6d53OB/s1600/mcq4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKYWAdReLYyvnmiGRcwMEn1Y6oqxLAx2PmDzPHdhnwPCs_b8T6wOitxNbDFJLk-JOaazaNBfJhWuzrdaNpyaVzdy16u7In3VQGgViZ-4gTVRe9aJXiasagIbbCKtC2AOXxftdlK-6d53OB/s640/mcq4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNOD9dpjgMgqBUBCNZltWxDdC0bWbemmbZQ76ggwTLzsym-s5P1zijJV9g85t0ioffW8AWrzBBH49Tnjyj3qy9jzUIzlbeqgC4HsablmaGh7LVmJx0ld7EkwKv_sQDG2-TrYWkBHhuOeIn/s1600/mcq5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNOD9dpjgMgqBUBCNZltWxDdC0bWbemmbZQ76ggwTLzsym-s5P1zijJV9g85t0ioffW8AWrzBBH49Tnjyj3qy9jzUIzlbeqgC4HsablmaGh7LVmJx0ld7EkwKv_sQDG2-TrYWkBHhuOeIn/s640/mcq5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbNYL5eNYxbhXs5zSdG08slxQvClwLRAnF41n89AfQTbi7fdlu3LXEIV7u3XBfGH-UdmmIJELEmqeR4tgVmLtMXZetXUunAEnDGKjy7WLj5E2on7ev8XkkQWGFYKUGBnCvdLu0VefyeEF5/s1600/mcq6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbNYL5eNYxbhXs5zSdG08slxQvClwLRAnF41n89AfQTbi7fdlu3LXEIV7u3XBfGH-UdmmIJELEmqeR4tgVmLtMXZetXUunAEnDGKjy7WLj5E2on7ev8XkkQWGFYKUGBnCvdLu0VefyeEF5/s640/mcq6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div>

A McQ Summer 2012

Summer isn't always about pretty florals and floaty sundresses. At least not according to the vision Sarah Burton has for McQ by Alexan...

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Friday Frills

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuxnp990Rlm_IR4oe1kIkTCk9s8mauRw85_96d84RuXS17oWoqETVJZH3jTirJbpj4cmoYc2erQdQK3yPB93h3KDW7ZIoogMNuQRDhxP96ypne2i0lBTRy9txIa54otmXk1tKJiKxmMGnS/s1600/friday+frills2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuxnp990Rlm_IR4oe1kIkTCk9s8mauRw85_96d84RuXS17oWoqETVJZH3jTirJbpj4cmoYc2erQdQK3yPB93h3KDW7ZIoogMNuQRDhxP96ypne2i0lBTRy9txIa54otmXk1tKJiKxmMGnS/s1600/friday+frills2.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Do more than exist, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">LIVE.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Do more than touch, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">FEEL.
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Do more than look, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">OBSERVE.
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Do more than read, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">ABSORB.
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Do more than hear, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">LISTEN.
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Do more than listen, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">UNDERSTAND.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
Do more than think, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">PONDER.
</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Do more than talk, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">SAY SOMETHING. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>John H. Rhoades</i></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /><br /></span></span></div>

Friday Frills

Do more than exist, LIVE. 
 Do more than touch, FEEL.
 Do more than look, OBSERVE.
 Do more than read, ABSORB.
 Do more than hear, LISTEN.
 ...

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Travel In Style with Designer Luggage

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you are unable to recognize your bags </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">from a sea of similar black suitcases </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">at airport baggage claim (like me), it could be a good idea to change your luggage style. There is a world of attractive suitcases out there in delectable colours, sturdy designs and pretty prints. These are some eye-catching pieces that are a refreshing change from the basic black bag.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiWL9i0g5qMkp49w_UTSW3hLIzZM-nn-FZxjyGnxl3Ogf7WoHNnv4KmopOe-yEDlfV4vdR-kGnt4REThtVeA8MSCHNFfSyPR8Y46MxeKc6-PR_0JrTnqW7-9p-secKR00VfqqbWnQbKOoH/s1600/luggage1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiWL9i0g5qMkp49w_UTSW3hLIzZM-nn-FZxjyGnxl3Ogf7WoHNnv4KmopOe-yEDlfV4vdR-kGnt4REThtVeA8MSCHNFfSyPR8Y46MxeKc6-PR_0JrTnqW7-9p-secKR00VfqqbWnQbKOoH/s640/luggage1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Pretty floral print Mocha Rouge bag by <i>Vera Bradley</i>. 22'' Spinner for $280</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. Hot pink <i>Titan Luggage</i> 19'' 4-wheel Carry-on. Also in black. $389</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. <i>Nicole Miller NY</i> Ombre Zebra print spinner bag. $119.99</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. Juniper 17'' blue shaded floral print bag by <i>Kathy van Zeeland</i>. $67.49</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. Britto Collection by <i>Heys USA</i> in an assortment of fun prints. 30'' spinner case $350</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6. Cute 22'' Carry-on with a 'Paris La Joie De Vie' mural painted on. Other city prints also available. From the Fazzino by <i>Heys USA</i> collection. $250</span></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqcY1Wy_Tt-JDnG2OhiIPX2GNIQ214rPSEYi2AbFMzgvUZyLBXf8iG2WrmuqPX6XdHucQDjtrxyyPPMz4nuAJX_fUptDcBEsdnG2uc0Knxfu3NWauVpVizATv-iu-cidbpJlZB0yBB4WfC/s1600/luggage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqcY1Wy_Tt-JDnG2OhiIPX2GNIQ214rPSEYi2AbFMzgvUZyLBXf8iG2WrmuqPX6XdHucQDjtrxyyPPMz4nuAJX_fUptDcBEsdnG2uc0Knxfu3NWauVpVizATv-iu-cidbpJlZB0yBB4WfC/s640/luggage2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7. Two piece 'Rio' Carry-on luggage set in houndstooth print by <i>Rockland</i>. $37.49</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8. <i>Diane von Furstenberg </i>black and white animal print Camargue 20'' rolling suitcase. $187.50</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">9. Vintage style upholstered bag by <i>Mellow World</i> in a Wild Rose print. $93.74</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">10. Damask print black and white 21'' spinner with pink edging by <i>Jenni Chan</i>. $82.49</span></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicedugsXAlSO_sAXMkG8BQ2RsybDs_4SvFPthcL627CLswpTCIqfzIOS50vRHbkOKUE3MbdKrgauK4DMjnou1fzXgbHMW4-ZPVFuDZk3szg_aoO6Ytr66Sspm0127kxbzG-E64sgqzb6Am/s1600/luggage4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicedugsXAlSO_sAXMkG8BQ2RsybDs_4SvFPthcL627CLswpTCIqfzIOS50vRHbkOKUE3MbdKrgauK4DMjnou1fzXgbHMW4-ZPVFuDZk3szg_aoO6Ytr66Sspm0127kxbzG-E64sgqzb6Am/s640/luggage4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">11. Metallic maple print rolling duffle-bag by <i>Mellow World.</i> Many other prints and colours available. $82.49</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">12. Shiny gold leopard print carry-on spinner by <i>IT Luggage</i>. $74.99</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">13. Old fashioned chest-style 20'' case by <i>AmeriLeather</i>. $112.49</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">14. Signature Studio 21'' Suitcase by <i>Diane von Furstenburg</i>. $88.49</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">15. <i>Diane von Furstenberg</i> 'On the Go' rolling carry-on. $74.99</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">16. Signature Jacquard 28'' suitcase in brown by <i>Anne Klein</i> Luggage. $127.49</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All these grand luggage designs are available for purchase online via <a href="http://www.eBags.com/">eBags.com</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They have a variety of styles, designs, brands and colours to choose from, with a special 25% off certain pieces. eBags.com offer a large range of exclusive designer brands as well more affordable labels. Shipping is free on purchases over $150.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have my heart set on the damask printed Jenni Chan bag (Number 10)Which of these stylish suitcases would you like to travel with?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div>

Travel In Style with Designer Luggage

If you are unable to recognize your bags  from a sea of similar black suitcases  at airport baggage claim (like me), it could be a good idea...

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Declarations of a Drama Queen

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyLsvAJtao70tc-ZMAld84fzCM1mVMclEIgsPFKHEmJQhGlO1vXuHr189Uc5K1JkhABCsUVZsEgHpKVUOdIeleHkK_Zol32Ut-eYzxTWJ-H23JECDScyr5bjqXwzwCoJrzaX51mlYSu8pF/s1600/audrey2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyLsvAJtao70tc-ZMAld84fzCM1mVMclEIgsPFKHEmJQhGlO1vXuHr189Uc5K1JkhABCsUVZsEgHpKVUOdIeleHkK_Zol32Ut-eYzxTWJ-H23JECDScyr5bjqXwzwCoJrzaX51mlYSu8pF/s1600/audrey2.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">“For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For beautiful hair, let a child run his or her fingers through it once a day.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed and redeemed; </span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">never throw out anyone.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you'll find one at the end of each of your arms.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, </span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">one for helping yourself, the other for helping others.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The beauty of a woman is not in the clothes she wears, the figure that she carries or the way she combs her hair.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The beauty of a woman must be seen from in her eyes, because that is the doorway to her heart, </span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">the place where love resides.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mode but the true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. </span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It is the caring that she lovingly gives the passion that she shows. </span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The beauty of a woman grows with the passing years.” </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Audrey Hepburn</i></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /><br /></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>*Image found via art.com</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i><br /><br /></i></span></div></div>

Declarations of a Drama Queen

“For attractive lips, speak words of kindness. For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people. For a slim figure, share your food with the hun...

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Who Wore Emilio Pucci Better?

<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;"><b>Who Wore It Better?</b></span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Emilio Pucci Spring 2012 dress</b></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Who could forget the daring see-through <i>Emilio Pucci </i>gown that Gwyneth Paltrow wore to last year's Emmy Awards? Apparently Kim Kardashian did. The reality star donned the exact same gown for a yacht party held in Cannes this past May. You may remember that Kim was also a victim in <a href="http://frillsandthrills.blogspot.com/2012/05/who-wore-balmain-better.html">last week's episode</a> of 'Who Wore It Better'. This ought to be interesting...</span><br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><br /><br /></b></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7tydG24B4RJlmfq3fzQN7sDSXXa2BD8hukSjJGfV5_PQgwnJCIq0EnZ4fXjHFET3RRe3KCFfcz5TLWqz1hBUa1Gw9_qOgOf42AZLZiVthm3m5T1ASP5fwA5W7nTqEAYhjhhkyrP6iRgdV/s1600/pucci1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7tydG24B4RJlmfq3fzQN7sDSXXa2BD8hukSjJGfV5_PQgwnJCIq0EnZ4fXjHFET3RRe3KCFfcz5TLWqz1hBUa1Gw9_qOgOf42AZLZiVthm3m5T1ASP5fwA5W7nTqEAYhjhhkyrP6iRgdV/s640/pucci1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Left:</span></b> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">Kim Kardashian</span></b> stole glances at P Diddy's famous yacht party held in Cannes this May. The fully embroidered black gown features an illusion bodice and midriff baring top.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Middle:</span></b> <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">Gwyneth Paltrow</span></b> had already grabbed media attention with the same Pucci dress in September last year, when she wore it to the Primetime Emmy Awards in LA.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">Right:</span></b> Supermodel <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #c27ba0;">Toni Garrn</span></b> swayed down the runway for Emilio Pucci Spring 2012's showing, wearing the sexy frock.</span></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2SQZnIFxvLWOSQ2hgeYaX22dqPcHvQK8HdxmNQj0VCwai3p-6nPUrhCC9VdlobEJ_IAKxXWd5pR08lH3ryk8-75amfRxfoEv-203zacZNcqV-4FmAHAfi8W4eU6Qgc6UgaJwyMNz2DoQ/s1600/pucci2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2SQZnIFxvLWOSQ2hgeYaX22dqPcHvQK8HdxmNQj0VCwai3p-6nPUrhCC9VdlobEJ_IAKxXWd5pR08lH3ryk8-75amfRxfoEv-203zacZNcqV-4FmAHAfi8W4eU6Qgc6UgaJwyMNz2DoQ/s400/pucci2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Kim wore her hair up in a chic ponytail with stunning twisted diamond earrings. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Gwyneth had her hair ironed out and put on <i>Neil Lane</i> drop earrings.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As for 'Who Wore It Better?', I can't believe I am going to say this, but I have to give this round to Kim. The reason I didn't like the gown on Gwyneth was due to the wider spacing of the exposed midriff, the look seemed discordant. Whereas on Kim, the skirt has been lifted so the sheer gap is minimal, and the top fits her much better. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;">What are your thoughts?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /><br /></span></div>

Who Wore Emilio Pucci Better?

Who Wore It Better? Emilio Pucci Spring 2012 dress Who could forget the daring see-through Emilio Pucci gown that Gwyneth Paltrow wore to la...

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Friday Frills

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7lcIEjlsSKGCMQmrGoaB9CJcOBJFTuS1cDg5tE9K4QTq1kRmwCBSqtS3puR2diAdwutHl3i8KKbZD0elIMZ4QnIU9ESkAU27hSSNb2Vd0UxeGTmHea9oeosgZRr1BuUmUzrdMJ5ofv_Hq/s1600/fridayfrills.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7lcIEjlsSKGCMQmrGoaB9CJcOBJFTuS1cDg5tE9K4QTq1kRmwCBSqtS3puR2diAdwutHl3i8KKbZD0elIMZ4QnIU9ESkAU27hSSNb2Vd0UxeGTmHea9oeosgZRr1BuUmUzrdMJ5ofv_Hq/s640/fridayfrills.jpg" width="496" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">My Symphony</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444;"><br /><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">To live content with small means.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">To seek elegance rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">To be worthy, not respectable, 
and wealthy, not rich.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">
To study hard, to think quietly, talk gently, act frankly.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">To listen to stars and birds, to babes and sages, with an open heart.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">To bear all cheerfully, do all bravely, await occasion, hurry never.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">In a word, to let the spiritual, unbidden and unconscious
 grow up through the common.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This is to be my symphony.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>William Henry Channing</i></span></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i><br /><br /></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>*Image via Elle</i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i><br /><br /></i></span></div>

Friday Frills

My Symphony To live content with small means. To seek elegance rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion. To be worthy, not res...

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