24 Hours - My Trip to Roanoke, VA Part 2

Welcome to part 2 of my 24 hours in Roanoke, VA. This post is solely dedicated to Taubman Museum of Art! I simply have too many photos and want to take the time to break down the area and the experience I had so that others will have a better idea of the area/interests. I've received some very awesome feedback on my first post - which you can read here. If you enjoy these posts please let me know and feel free to share! Again, thank you for taking the time out of your busy day to enter my wacky world.

Much love!

For those of you that do not know me personally - I feel like I'm at an AA meeting. Hello my name is Mika and I'm an art addict. Taubman Museum of Art is only one of many museums in Roanoke. I chose Taubman's while I was researching the area. They simply offered more of what I wanted to see!

As with most museums photography was not allowed in 90% of the areas. For those areas I will link directly to their website.

Welcome to Roanoke!

Taubman Museum of Art

 

This unusual Nylon floating sculpture greets every guest at the museum. Hand sewn by artist Anne Ferrer - "Hot Pink" is suspended 20 feet in the air, giving the rather masculine architectural design a more feminine and rather whimsical feel.

Art Venture was the first area I visited inside the museum. It was inspiring to watch the children reading/painting and opening their beautiful creative minds!

I took this photo for Tamara. :)

 

 

Matching Anne Ferrer sculpture from the lobby.

"Un-usual Folk" Exhibit 

Artist: Unknown

Left: "Quilting Memory Painting by Helen La France

Right: "Self Portrait" by Mose Tolliver

Artist: Unknown

This painting was my favorite of all the "Folk Art"
Artist: Theresa Disney

These were the most unusual pieces. "Buster in Cage 2004" by Marvin Francis who is incarcerated in North Point Training Facility, KY. The most amazing part - they were made with materials Mr. Francis had access to in the facility. Proving you can literally make something from nothing!

Also on exhibit when I visited:

Faberge collection - over 100 separate pieces collected from 1899-1917 ranging from cigarette holders to crystal stamp viewers. Most were originally owned by Tsar Nicholas II.

Judith Leiber Handbags - over 100 crystal handbags. Simply beautiful.

Edward Burtnysky- Collection called "Oil" Mr. Burtnysky shows us in full detail the impact we make on the Earth and on one another. An absolutely beautiful photography collection worth viewing!

American Art from the Permanent Collection - Of course this exhibit was my of my favorite if for no other reason than I was able to view amazing American Impressionists paintings. I love Impressionism and was thrilled to have the honor of gazing upon such strong pieces from a lost era.

State of the Art: Virginia Crossroads - A vast collection of artists from the area (and around Virginia) ranging from sculptures to photography and everything in between. I spent more time in this section than I realized, mainly due to the fact the guard talked me to death! lol

Harold Little - A wonderful painter and Printmaker

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That's it folks! If you enjoyed my little review please let me know!

Street art outside of the museum. Buy the print here.

There you have it. If you enjoyed my review please let me know! I can't wait to do another one!

24 Hours - My Trip to Roanoke, VA Part 1

A girl can accomplish a lot in 24 hours - especially a girl with a camera and time all on her own. I had 4 days off this week and knew I couldn't stand to stay alone so I reserved a solo slot for an overnight trip to Roanoke, VA. Everyone has asked me, "Why Roanoke?" Why not? It's less than 5 hours away and is quite an amazing place. When I say everyone has asked me..I do mean everyone; including (but not limited to) the Virginia police officer who pulled me over.

I would be doing the world a huge misfortune if I didn't share this story with you all. If you're not interested then by all means scroll on down...but you're gonna regret it. While I'm at it; disclaimer for foul language. ;)

Nearly 20 miles from my hotel exit an unmarked car flashed their lights and stopped me on I-81. Now in my head: I'm wearing my seat belt, not speeding, not on the phone/texting, both hands on the wheel and the music playing low...what the fuck does this guy want? He strolls up to my passenger window doing the big macho man knock on the side of the vehicle (I guess to see if it was hollow) he asked the usual, how are you, where are you heading etc...finally he says, "I pulled you over because I'm pretty sure your windows are too dark." Wait...what? I'm puzzled at this point. "I think they're probably too dark for Kentucky too. I'm just going to give you a warning. May I see your license and registration" of course I obey.

After running me (which I'm sure he was disappointed in wasting his time doing all this shit) he brings back my ID and uses a little meter device to see how dark my windows are. While the meter is testing he says, "Virginia state law is anything below 15." We both look at the meter and at each other. My reading? 14! "So I'm under the law?" I questioned as I smiled. "Yes, it says you are." Knowing you're in the right, especially when it comes to a prick of a officer is the best feeling in the world. He then questions why I'm going to Roanoke for one day...I did not have to explain a damn thing to him but I have nothing to hide. I told him I was a photographer (and pointed to the camera bag in the floor) and wanted to get away. I live just a few hours away and didn't think it was a crime to spend the night one state away from home. Of course his reply was, "I work with the crime and drug task force and that's why I was asking" "Oh, so you think I'm smuggling drugs from Kentucky? Really?" "Ma'am, have you ever been in trouble?" "Didn't your little scan on me already tell you this? No. In fact I now have paper work to fill out when I return to work for talking to you...you gave me more work over nothing." "But I didn't give you a ticket or warning..." After I informed him in much more detail what I meant, he changed his tune quick. Needless to say, I was "Free to go" and he hoped I "enjoy your stay"...I was so pissed I didn't think to get his name. I know cops get a bad rap because of douche bags like him, but he really was just an asshole who tried to push the wrong girl.

Luckily things got better after that :)

I stayed at Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Salem, VA. Crazy that a double room was cheaper than a single, but a room is a room to me!

I want the bathroom lights!

I made reservations for one at the fancy steakhouse in downtown Roanoke. Call me Lily Davenport from now on. :) The dress code was "Business casual" so I played.

 

Me or should I say "Lily" :)

The place was called Frankie Rowland's Steakhouse and it was much more laid back and comfortable than I ever expected. My reservation was for 7:45 and I couldn't have picked a better time in terms of crowd. There were groups everywhere. I didn't allow myself to feel out of place for being alone. It's something I'm getting used to and if I'm to travel (like I dream) I have a feeling I will be doing it a lot. 

I asked the hostess for permission to photograph a few things in the restaurant to write about, this was obviously an odd request as she asked her manager. Needless to say I was allowed! My server was Stephani and I could not have asked for a better one! I told her off the bat about my plans and she went to great lengths to assist me. 

I had originally requested Split Chicken Breast with Rosemary Beurre Blanc but Stephani came back in a tizzy...for they had ran out of chicken due to a large party in the back. This turned out to be in my favor because I spoiled myself with an appetizer.

Artisan Cheese Plate (three cheese) I ate nearly everything on the platter!

My salad: Sliced Beefstake Tomatoes, Fresh Mozzarella and Balsamic Reduction

Every thing was fresh and flavorful. Tamara had mentioned the salad when I linked her the menu so after the chicken fiasco I knew it was meant to be!

My water never ran low, my table cloth was cleaned after each plate and I was thanked by every employee as I left. To have randomly picked a place to dine I really lucked up.

Be on the lookout for Part 2 this weekend!

PS: This is my 200th blog post!

Review: Daring Greatly by Brené Brown

After devouring "Daring Greatly" by Brené Brown I was amazed at how much of a role vulnerability and shame play in my life. From her opening excerpt of Theodore Roosevelt's thunderous speech "Citizenship in a Republic" to her personal experiences with shame and vulnerability Brené shoves the mirror in your own face and makes you take a hard look at who you are and how you react to situations.

Dr. Brené Brown has spent over a decade researching/interviewing and experiencing all types of shame and vulnerability that keep us from getting into the arena and daring greatly.


I was very thankful to receive this book...as some of you know I suffer from depression and anxiety. We all have personal demons or "gremlins" as she calls them. So many passages had me shaking my head to agree and are now highlighted as references when I start to hear my "gremlins" telling me "Your idea is stupid" or "No one loves you" she calls this "Vulnerability Resilience".

She provides excerpts from other professionals/artists/writers who are daring greatly and makes every day references (everything from Harry Potter to Leonard Cohen) I can honestly say I had my doubts at first, I was worried I wouldn't be able to follow along, but when I say it's an easy read...I mean you will understand the information she is providing to help you.

No matter what situation you find yourself in or what bothers you deep down, this book is a great reminder that the human spirit is so much more than the toxic words we tell ourselves and unfortunately (sometimes) tell others.

I highly recommend this book to everyone - men, women and teens alike. I've already taken my first step into the arena and am daring greatly...when will you?

*This is a paid review for BlogHer Book Club but the opinions expressed are my own.

If you would like to join the discussion, head over to the BlogHer Book Club and share with the community!  

Umba Box, MyGlam and June Birchbox Goodies

My apologies for the hiatus. I have been "sick". When I say "sick" I mean I had an awful sinus infection. However, according to my drunken uncle a sinus infection is not a "sickness". My lady-like response? "You wouldn't know because you can't stay sober long enough to feel anything!"

Moving on!

I'm not reviewing Umba Box, MyGlam and June's Birchbox this month. It's entirely too much, too soon. I also know how much you all enjoy these posts. I just can't leave you empty handed, so I at least have pics of each to share.

May's Umba Box

May's MyGlam

June's Birchbox!

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Review: The First Husband By Laura Dave

 There comes a time in your life (or possibly several times) you stand on the edge of choice. Not the choice of what's for breakfast this morning - but a life changing, oh shit this is real; choice. Annie Adams is faced with this type of choice early on in The First Husband by Laura Dave. Nick (her rising-to-fame director boyfriend) thinks the grass is greener on the other side. Annie - at the advice of her best friend is determined to be the opposite of herself. Perfect timing (just like a Hollywood movie) she meets Griffin. Mr. Top Chef who makes amazing scrambled eggs with lobster and Gruyère at 3 in the morning. 

You follow Annie and her choices. Sometimes cheering her on and other times yelling at her for not turning around. It made me realize just how much we can relate. Not just between romance and careers...but finding ourselves along the way by the choices we have made. It might not have made sense at the time, but it's not suppose to. We become who we are by the choices we make. 

The First Husband is a great read. Between the dialog, inner monologue and general context I was laughing, gasping and shaking my head in disbelief.  

Now my question to you: Could you do it? Could you be your opposite and follow through with it to a possible better life? It's an exciting scenario to consider. 

*I was compensated for this BlogHer Book Club review but all opinions expressed are my own.

If you would like to join the discussion, head over to the BlogHer Book Club and share with the community!

Birchbox Review - May 2012

It's that time again! A new month - a new Birchbox review! For those of you who missed my April review you can catch up here. Now that we're all settled on what Birchbox is and all the fabulous-ness it has to offer it's time to show off the goodies!!

This month's box may look a little empty but trust me, it's still full of great items to try! This month's theme "Gossip Girl Hamptons Beach Party" Since the season finale was Monday May 14, it was a good theme for the month!

May 2012

• BVLGARI | Omnia Crystalline 
• fresh | Sugar Rose Tinted Lip Treatment
• Kiehl's | Abyssine Cream +
• Miracle Skin Transformer Body SPF 20 in Glow *
• Birchbox Extra | Notecard

* indicates items I have not tested 


Review thus far: 
I am in love with the BVLGARI perfume - so much that it will be my next purchase. Full size $47-$64. The Sugar Rose Lip Treatment is a new favorite. It glides on smoothly and doesn't have an overpowering smell/taste, like other lip treatments. Full size $22.50 but well worth it for the benefits of your soft rosy tented lips! PS: It's Made in Paris! I tried Kiehl's Abyssine Cream this morning and my skin felt smoother instantly. I will be able to make a more sound judgement after a few days. Full size $48.

The Notecard included is super cute! In white font "XOXO" on a light green (to go with their Gossip Girl theme) with a matching envelope it's simply adorable. Set of 12, $10

So there you have it. May's Birchbox broken down.

Look for a new post later this week with my first review of Umba Box!

Review: The Pathos of Rowan Jun by Tamara Henson (Coffey)

I am blessed...there is no denying it. I have amazing friends, a wonderful family and you my beautiful readers! I was lucky enough to be one of the first to get their hands on Volume One of my very dear friend Tamara Henson (Coffey)'s book: The Pathos of Rowan Jun. As soon as it was available for Kindle I purchased and began my journey. I know a lot of you are thinking "She only likes it because it's written by her friend" not the case! I am by no means afraid of telling a friend their work is not the best quality. I know some that can vouch for this! I honestly enjoyed loved the story. I hope I was successful in expressing an accurate review that others can benefit from.

My review:

The blurb for The Pathos of Rowan Jun sums up the story and yet intrigues you even more. "Bury your human soul in the heart of a warrior" As an avid reader over many genres (Fantasy, Historical Fiction, and Non Fiction) I was excited to dive in, curious of the world Tamara Henson created of Unata and this so-called warrior Rowan Jun.

With no warning I found myself smack dab in the middle of action from the start. Some enjoy this type of beginning; others prefer an intro or prologue. But considering the author explains previous events in full detail all while keeping the action packed story moving swiftly along – a prologue would be of no use here. Written in third person I felt I was walking along side Rowan Jun cheering him on every step of the way. I felt his pain, his sorrow and his joy. I became the warrior myself.  

With 12 original illustrations shuffled in the 234 pages it made character connection all the more realistic. As with many Fantasy/Epic novels the writing style is informal. I think this was done intentionally. Dialogue between characters is clear and at times humorous – such as real life. My favorite excerpt, “Darkness hides in us all, Rowan Jun. But so does greatness!” 

From the opening sentence to the very last period; this story not only held my attention, but threw me head first in a very strange world. Even if you are not a fan of Fantasy writing I suggest you give The Pathos of Rowan Jun an honest chance. You won’t be disappointed.

Now the countdown is on to the next volume in the series!

Places to find Tamara/The Pathos of Rowan Jun:

• Tamara Henson Studios
• Blog
• Facebook 
• Twitter

Paperback/E reader Editions available here:

• Amazon 
• Smashwords
• CreateSpace
• Barns & Nobles 

Have you read The Pathos of Rowan Jun? Have plans to read it? Inquiring minds want to know (aka me)

Birchbox and MyGlam April 2012 Review

Birchbox and MyGlam April 2012

For those of you that are wondering what the hell Birchbox and MyGlam are...and why I'm reviewing them - the latest greatest trend happens to be monthly memberships to new products. There are numerous sites that offer health, beauty and even handmade products/samples for a monthly (or yearly if you are richer than me) subscription. Quoated directly from Birchbox's website:

Birchbox is the best way to discover new grooming, beauty and lifestyle products. Sample top products from high-end brands, get expert advice, buy new favorites and earn points with every purchase.

MyGlam takes a different approach. Your first step is to take a quiz to identify what type of beauty products suit you. As a makeup fanatic I was thrilled to find both of these sites.

Here's the kicker - I was on a waiting list for Birchbox due to high demand. My acceptance email came just a few weeks after signing up. However, MyGlam had a zero waiting list. Both of these wonderful subscriptions are $10 a month. If you would like to sign up for either/or feel free to follow my links!


 Birchbox content:

• Be Fine Food Skin Care | Daily Moisturizer *
• Be Fine Food Skin Care | Exfoliating Cleanser
• June Jacobs | Perfect Pumpkin Enzyme Polish (which smells divine!)
• Color Club | Age of Aquarius Mini Nail Lacquer
• ShowStoppers | Designer Fashion Tape *
• Juicy Couture | Viva La Juicy (one of my faves)

* indicates items I have not tested

Review thus far: I used the exfoliating cleanser & enzyme polish this morning. I love the way they make my skin feel. The enzyme polish will be a possible purchase. Full size is $60. I have adored Juicy Couture's Viva La Juicy since it was released. Color Club Age of Aquarius is the perfect shade for my Spring toes. I'm wearing pastels and lots of skirts so the mint green is just right! For $8 a bottle I think I'll try all their neon nail polish colors - and as if I didn't love them already, they are named for random 60's culture!


 MyGlam content: 

• Urban Decay | 24/7 Glide-on Eye Pencil in Radium (Metallic blue)
• DermStore Lip Quench | Moisture Infused Lip Treatment
• My Glam All-Over Eyeshadow Brush
• My Glam Eyeliner Brush *

 * indicates items I have not tested

Review thus far: I will say I love the DermStore Lip Treatment. I tried it out today and my lips were soft and pouty for hours. Full size of this cute kitten is $12 which is well worth the results! I love the eyeshadow brush. I use it to blend shadows together and it works perfectly. Urban Decay has always been a beauty staple of mine - however I was cautious of such a bright blue. Of course I shouldn't have doubted Urban Decay's makeup because I love it with my brown eyes! $19 for full size pencil.

So, my wonderful readers...have you heard/signed up/tried either of these sites? Have you tried others? I'm curious to know!

Mika