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Stay-cation in Atlantic City

August 5, 2019
Stay-cation in Atlantic City

Last week we went on a stay-cation to Atlantic City with family friends. I had never been to the seaside city known for gambling and entertainment shows. The city itself is run down except for a few up-kept historical spots, a shopping strip and of course the casino/hotels. The boardwalk was a tale of the same, one side vibrant with stores, The Hard Rock Cafe and a pier with rides, games and restaurants. While the other side had not as many, thanks to some businesses closed down and past attractions taken away. One would think that in a city that generates money from gambling there would be more upkeep to so such a large attraction and to the city itself. Although we don’t have to think that hard on where all that money stays (casinos). If only those casinos would invest in the city itself?

 

We did get to see a few historical places that I found interesting. There is a time capsule buried in front of a church that is to be opened in 2056 that we stopped to see. Although the most interesting place, was the Abescon Lighthouse with an attached house that serves as a museum. Not only did I enjoy this place because of all the history it held but because of the lighthouse keeper, named Buddy. The museum is free but if you pay a fee you can walk up to the top of the lighthouse where the lighthouse keeper, Buddy waits to greet you and tell you more about the site. Buddy is 92 years old! He is there every Friday, although the other employees say he’s there up to three times a week. He served in WWII and traveled with his now deceased wife when they were young.

 

Buddy who is quite chatty, told me of one particular trip to South America with his wife and how they forewent wanting kids in favor of traveling. My kind of couple! He became interested in becoming a lighthouse keeper after doing the New Jersey Lighthouse Challenge with a few friends. Buddy thoroughly enjoys volunteering there, celebrating his birthdays with the lighthouse staff and has been the lighthouse keeper for what will be 10 years in October. He walks up and down the 228 steps of the lighthouse just like everyone else. Once again Buddy is 92 YEARS OLD!  He attributes good genes, and physical activities like the Tai Chi classes he takes to his longevity. Buddy was one of the highlights of the trip for me. If you go to Atlantic City you have to visit Buddy at the top of the Abescon lighthouse!

Facts about the lighthouse:

Jan 15, 1857 was when the lighthouse began shining across the Atlantic. The light beamed 20 miles out to sea.

The position of the current museum is exactly where the original light house keeper lived and it was known as the “Keeper’s Dwelling”.

The assistant keepers dwelling or the assistant lighthouse keeper also had a house, located behind the lighthouse.

By July 11, 1933 the lighthouse was decommissioned or put out of service thanks to the rising skyline of Atlantic City.

Lighthouse keepers had strict rules to follow, like that of a person in the military. They were to stay in the watchroom and never leave unless an assistant keeper or trusted person came and took their place. While other requirements included being neat, sober and managing the upkeep of the lighthouse and the grounds.

 

 

The rest of my trip included eating really good Peruvian food at El Chalan on 2641 Artic Ave. Playing Rummikub, which I’m finally getting the hang of thanks to my Rummikub tutor (my mom’s friends), walking the boardwalk at night, riding a ride at the amusement park with my moms thrill loving friend and pushing a single slot machine button. And no, we didn’t win anything! Lastly, a few hours at the beach was spent before heading home.

 

 

 

If you’re interested in visiting Atlantic City in November, Puerto Rican Salsa Group El Gran Combo will be at the Tropicana on November 30th. Make sure to pickup the Atlantic County Coupon Guide in your hotel or at the Absecon Lighthouse for a discount off the admission to the lighthouse and to other events in A.C. Have you ever been to Atlantic City, what was your experience? Let me know in the comments and on social media.-T.S.

Lifestyle

My Home Office Space: Updated and giveaway

June 24, 2019
office space

My home office space is always a space in which I spend a lot of time in and I’m always looking to add to it. Not because I’m not satisfied with it, but because I’m obsessed with stationary and all things office. I’ve added a few new pieces to my office space and wanted to write an updated post. You can check out my first post regarding my office space here. Although Home Goods and TJMaxx are my go to for everything when I’m in search for something new for this space, surprisingly they were not the stores in which I found my latest pieces. Here are the newest pieces, where I got them and links to similar ones for you add to your office space. This post has affiliate links in it, upon clicking, buying from the links I may receive a commission. 

 

 

The first thing I bought to update my office space was a three shelf cart with wheels. I needed something to hold paperwork that couldn’t fit in the two drawers in my desk. The black color fits perfectly with the black legs of my desk, and the wheels are great for easy movement for when I want to clean or when I need to move my office space items around. I bought it at Aldi, that’s right ALDI. I had to put it together, but I managed to do it on my own, so it was really easy.

office space

 

 

Similair ones:


 

Next I added two magazine holders that my mom was given. She thought I could use them, and she was right. Although they were a dull green and beige and I needed to spruce them up to fit my office décor. In came gold, blue and green paint and some paint brushes that I had around my house. I painted them in gold first and streaked in the blue on one and green on the other. I wanted them to look a bit antique so I left streaks and used short brush strokes.

Similar ones:


The next items I got were also from Aldi! On a separate trip I found an office kit that came with an accordion organizer, folders with four of each design, thumbtacks, paperclips, and binder clips all in the colors and designs of the folders. If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know I did an unboxing of this and got responses expressing surprise that I got all this in one kit and that I found it at Aldi! Yes I did!

Similar ones:


Also new to my office space were a pen holder and trinket holder that I received as a Christmas gift. I believe it is meant for beauty products, but the colors go well with my office décor and they came in handy for holding pens and the paperclips, binder clips and thumbtacks that came in the office kit I bought from Aldi.

Similar  ones:

Also a gift for Christmas from my little cousins, was a phone stand and charging station, surprisingly also in gold, perfect for my office décor. I use this every time I do an IG story or live where I need to talk. It has been a very useful item, even though I didn’t know if I would use it when I got it. I have! So I thank my little cousins and my aunt for getting me such a useful gift.

office space

 

Similar Ones:

The printer is also new in my office space. I got it for free, yes completely free! I am a part of the National Consumer Panel, and had racked up enough points to order it before Christmas of last year. I need to find a printer stand, preferably with extra storage. So that is one of the next things on my to-add list for my office space.

Moving on to my oil diffuser. When I was in Florida for Christmas I came down with a small cold. At one of my aunts house there was an oil diffusor in the bathroom, which my aunt insisted on me using as I took a hot shower. And it really did help! So when I got home I purchased a small oil diffuser from TJMaxx. My favorite oils to put in are Eucalyptus and Sandalwood, which I recently found at Hobby Lobby. For some reason I  find it helpful to put my oil diffuser on when I’m writing towards a major deadline.

Similar ones:

It is said that in small spaces you should use every inch wisely. With these four corkboards, I think I’m doing just that. They came two in a pack with self adhesive stickers at CVS. I use them to get paper work off my desk and to hold momentos.

 

Similar Ones:

 

Lastly, I just bought this keyboard rest a few weeks ago off Amazon. I looked in a few stores and it seems fashionable wrists rests are not sold or they are sold with a mouse pad. I need the wrists rest for the tendinitis in my arms, wrists and hands and I don’t need a mouse pad. The blue and white goes well with my chair and the rest of my décor. Here are similar ones as well.

 

office space

 

 

 

 

 

What does your office space look like? Let me know in the comments and on social media. Now for the giveaway! I’m doing a giveaway of some beauty items I got from the Covergirl store in Times Square. To enter, subscribe and comment below what part of the house you’re obsessed with and why. Office space, like me?  Kitchen? Bathroom?  The winner will be selected randomly and emailed with the email you use to subscribe. Extra entries if you follow me on Instagram! Let me know in the comment that you followed me! The winner will be contacted via email, put the handle to your Instagram or social handle in your comment so I can contact you there as well.  Open to U.S. and Puerto Rico. No purchase necessary.  Ends Saturday July 6, 2019.  Prize includes: 1 Covergirl by Katy Perry Katty Kat Wink Faux Lashes, 1 Covergirl by Katy Perry Lip Gloss and Body Glitter in 05 Kitty Karma,  1 Urban Decay Brow Guide in High & Tight, 1 Rugged Bluetooth Speaker that comes with a carry clip, is water resistant, wireless and has a rechargeable battery. 1 Estee Lauder makeup bag. 1 Covergirl Times Square bag. Look forward to your comments.-T.S.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beauty New York

El Show de Maquillaje Nueva York 2019 y los Productos que Compre

May 13, 2019

La semana pasada fue al Show de Maquillaje de Nueva York, que occure cada ano. Era mi segundo vez yendo a la exposición comercial para profesionales en maquillaje, moda, estudiantes de belleza y la prensa.  Durante estos tres días, una para prensa solamente, y dos para el resto del publico hai orportunidades para aprender nuevas tecnicas de famosos maquilladores, conocer a las marcas que estan ahi que no se puede encontrar en su  tienda local, y el mas importante, comprar productos en un alto descuento, a veces al %50 o mas.  Aquí les dejo con lo que vi, lo que aprendi,, lo que compre, y el *look* que cree con mis productos. Cuando mi mama se entero de que iria al Show de Maquillaje, por supuesto mi mama queria que la comprara algunas cosas tambien.

 

Los Productos que Compre:

  • NYX: Off Tropic Paleta de sombras y pigmentos en  “Shifting Sand”. Precio original: $20.00   –  Precio en el Makeup Show: $14.00
  • NYX: Hydra Touch Primer, Precio original: $14.00    –    Precio en el Makeup Show: $19.60 por dos

 

  • Make Up Forever: Matte Velvet Skin Base.  Precio original: $38.00 –  Precio en el Makeup Show: $24.82

 

  • Benefit Cosmetics: POREfessional Primer. Precio original: $32.00 –  Precio en el Makeup Show: dos por $38.40, $19.20 cada uno.

 

  • Urban Decay: De-slick Setting Spray. Precio original: $32.00   –   Precio en el Makeup Show: $20.90

 

Los dos brochas y el guia de cejas fueron gratis con mi compra.

 

The makeup show

 

El “look” que cree con la paletta de NYX:

Los productos que utilice:

Lo que vi y aprendi:

 

¿Has ido a una exposición comercial de maquillaje en el pasado? La próxima parada para el Makeup Show es en Washington D.C. con el TMS Beauty Shop en Agosto 3er & 4.-T.S.

Beauty Lifestyle Spanish /Espanol

Belleza:Mi productos favoritos del momento

February 3, 2019
Belleza:Mi productos favoritos del momento

Recientemente fui de compras para nuevos productos para el cuidado de mi rostro y nuevo productos en maquillaje.  Si me sigues en Instagram tengo un ‘story’ en mi pagina que se llama ” Unboxing en Espanol” en que hablo de estos productos. Pero si no lo vieron, aqui estan mis productos favortios del momento.

  1. Garnier SkinActive Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel Cream– Compre este hidratante de gel porque queria probar un hidratante que no era de crema. Durante mi busqueda de un nuevo regimen para el cuidado de mi piel, me entere que para mi peil mixta era mejor un hidratante de gel y no de crema. Para mi, un hidratante de crema se sentia grasoso, y el gel de Garnier se disuelve facilmente en mi piel. Tambien me gusta el olor, que me recuerda al mar.

 

Belleza:Mi productos favoritos del momento

 

2. NYX-Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Foundation-Este base lo compre por tratar algo nuevo y me encantaaaaa! Sigo a Francis Nieves por Instagram y ella lo recomenda. Tengo que decir que no puedes sentirlo y que se queda todo el dia SIN un ¨setting spray¨.

Belleza:Mi productos favoritos del momento

3.NYX- Lid Lingerie Eyeshadow Palette, Paleta de sombras- Soy un amante de los neutrales en maquillje. Y soy amante de los Lip Lingierie Y Lip Suedes, que son la inspiracion de este paleta.  Los colores son perfecto para todos los dia’s. Ya lo use un par de veces y es facil de usar para algunas de nosotras que no somos artistas del maquillaje.

Belleza:Mi productos favoritos del momento

4. NYX HydraTouch Primer– Tengo piel mixta que puede ser grasosa y reseca. Este primer o imprimacion es perfecto para eso y es libiano. No necesitas mucho, y no lo tienes que difuminar tanto.

5. NYX Slip Tease Lip Lacquer en Spiced Spell Labial– Compre este labial en mi cumpleanos con el cupon que me dieron por ser parte de el programa Makeup Crew. La mayoria de mis labiales son mate, casi no tengo labiales de gloss entonces queria comprame uno. Amo el color, que se llama Spiced Spell.

 

Belleza:Mi productos favoritos del momento

6 . Essie: Say it Ain’t Soho– Este esmalte me lo enviaron una compania que trabaja con bloggers para probarlo. Es parte de la coleccion Otono 2018 que era inspirada por la ciudad de Neuva York… la isla de concreto (como el nombre de mi blog).

 

Belleza:Mi productos favoritos del momentoBelleza:Mi productos favoritos del momento

 

7. Maybelline: Made For All en el color 385 Ruby For Me– Otra compania que trabaja con bloggers me envio este labial. El concepto de la coleccion Made For All es que los 7 tonos pueden ser usadas con 50 tonos de piel. Me encanta el tono, y como me quedo.

Belleza:Mi productos favoritos del momento

8. Too Faced Shadow Insurance 24 hour Anti-Crease Eye Shadow Primer:  Por mi cumpleanos compre este primer o imprimacion para sombras. Lo compre en Sephora para recivir mi regalito gratis! Ya lo use, y trabaja espectacularmente, lo tengo puesto en las dos primeras fotos de abajo.

Belleza:Mi productos favoritos del momento

Extra: No es maquille pero para mi cumpleanos, que fue el Sabado 2/2 mi mama me regalo un collar de She Is Gold Jewlery.   Tiene la forma de Puerto Rico y me encanta!

 

Cual son tu’s favoritos del momento? Tienes algunos que mencione? Dejame saber en los comentarios o en mis paginas de redes sociales!-T.S.

Lifestyle

Alzheimer’s Disease- Laughter and Sadness

January 27, 2019

Last week I helped watched over my great-aunt or Tia as we call her, who normally is watched over by my aunt. My great aunt is in her 80’s and has Alzheimer’s. Anyone who has had a loved one with this disease can tell you it is not only tough on the person who has it but on their family members as well. As the person loses the ability to remember if they completed basic tasks like washing their hands, their care taker takes on the responsibility of being that persons eyes and ears. It is like caring for a child, completely vulnerable to the world and its dangers.

When I was a little girl it was my grandfather who had Alzheimer’s. Although I don’t remember, my family tells me that I was the only person he remembered. Even though he would question who everyone one else was, even his children. Back then there was not as many medical advances in the fight against this memory robbing disease. Fortunately now there are some medicines that fight to slow its progression, which she is on but there is no cure.

It is said that as the disease progresses patients revert to their much younger selves. This is the case with my great-aunt, who many times thinks she is younger than she is. Telling her she is in her 80’s is a complete shock to her and she is a bit offended. She also sometimes thinks her mother is still alive and that she still lives in Puerto Rico among other things. Her reactions are funny in the moment, because of her spunky attitude, but it is sad all the same. It is also common for a person with Alzheimer’s to become aggressive or angry, although my Tia can be stubborn thankfully the illness has not made her neither.

 

What she hasn’t lost is the ability to do is recognize a hot guy when she sees one, dance and move to the beat, say whatever is on her mind and appreciate beauty and fashion.  Her loving memories of her dad and some memories of her childhood are also things she remembers. She also remembers her faith in God and she NEVER forgets about dessert!

As you watch your loved one lose their memory and with it sometimes pieces of themselves there is no doubt that you will feel sadness. As much as you love them, and want to help them there is only so much you can do. A fact that was clearly reminded to me when my Tia, misplaced her false teeth. Although we were laughing, because she sneaked them out her mouth and lost them, we were loosing our minds looking for them. No matter how many times we asked her where she put them she had no idea, and would lose recognition of what it was we were looking for. We never found them and I’m not sure we ever will. Another moment of laughter and sadness.

Although I’m not a very emotional person, a wave of sadness that I had not felt before came over me at the end of our search for her teeth. Not because I couldn’t find them, but because I could not help her. Sadness that she’s lost pieces of herself although not all, to a thief that might never be stopped.

This post was a bit of an emotional one, but I felt I had to write it all the same. As writing is my outlet. Do you have or had a loved one with the memory robbing disease? What are your stories of laughter and sadness? Let me know in the comments and on social media.-T.S.

 

fashion Shop

Must Have Coats

January 13, 2019
must have coats

It is COLD up here in the North East, so its safe to say we might still be using our thick coats well into February. Let’s all do a little prayer that we don’t have a snowstorm in February, I’ve totally been stuck indoors for my birthday because of it.  Although one opportunity granted to you because of the cold is the ability to take out great coats. I myself have a collection and love to switch them around. It’s also a great way to stay fashionable and show your style while staying bundled up. From patterns to colors and cuts the possibilities to standout with a great coat can be endless. Here is a great selection to add to your collection of coats. Don’t have one yet? Start one!

 

Shearlings and Furs- A great way to keep warm is to infuse a faux fur or faux shearling coat into your wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to pick a bold color like the red Alice and Olivia piece.

Puffers- A popular coat no matter what the price range is, the puffer, will always be a go to. I own a dusty rose one in velveteen similar to the floral Collusion piece. All though puffers draw attention own their own because of its shape, a bold print will add extra flair to your outfit.

Swing Coats- This classicly cut coat will never go out of style. I practically love that it can be an everyday coat or taken out for special occasions. Because of the classic cut don’t be afraid of a bold print like the Asos animal print piece. It still has a sleek put together feel thanks to the cut.

Teddy Coats- I haven’t delved into teddy coats yet but it’s on my list of maybe’s. Feel free to combine trends as the French Connection piece does with its robe style cut.

Do you have any of these in your coat collection? While I have some of these in my collection I definitely see some that I would love to add to my closet.  Which ones are you adding?- T.S

 

christmas Lifestyle The Metropolitan Museum of Art Travel

Must See’s and Things to Do During Christmas in NYC

December 3, 2018
Must See's During Christmas in NYC

Lets not kid ourselves NYC will always be a Christmas/December destination. There are already so many tourists that visit NYC during the rest of the year, and not surprisingly that number jumps during the holidays. Although it is worth it to see the beautifully decorated stores, attractions and experience a New York City Christmas. Here’s a list of things to do and places to see this holiday season in NYC. (Locals pack your patience, visit early or at the end of the season, or avoid midtown like the plague!)

 

Uptown

  • Central Park Ice Skating at Wollman Rink– I haven’t done this yet but it is said to be less crowded than Rockefeller Center with a gorgeous view of the surrounding park. It’s on my to-do list.

 

 

 

  • The Nutcrakcer Ballet at Lincoln Center- This is also on my to-do list! If you’re into ballet, why not see a top ballet company preform a Christmas classic.

 

  • Metropolitan Museum of Art : Medieval Hall- I love visiting this part of the museum especially during Christmas. A tree is put up surrounded by a manger, angels and medieval decorations. On display until January.

 

Midtown

  • Rockefeller Center-This is a must for tourists! It is really a sight to see that gigantic tree lit up. Ice skating here will be crowded if you go mid December and the more people on the ice the more choppy it is.  I did this once with family members from out-of-town at the end of the season and it was not crowded but the ice was extremely rough. Its beautiful, but the rough ice and crowds should be something to consider.

 

  • The Christmas Spectacular and The Rockettes– I also suggest seeing the Rockettes perform, it is a great show and a classic. The last time I saw it I enjoyed the new segments added, particularly the homage to the city of New York.

 

  • The Winter Village at Bryant Park/ New York Public Library on 5th- These should be seen together, I suggest visiting the shops at Bryant Park and entering the library after. The front entrance is decorated and has a beautifully decorated Christmas Tree.

 

  • Store Windows on 5th Ave -After you’ve seen Bryant Park and the library walk out onto Fifth  Ave and walk north towards all the holiday windows. Don’t miss Saks, Bergdorf Goodman and Tiffany & Co. Not on 5th but must see’s are Macy’s windows on 34th which has Santa Land inside. Bloomingdale’s also has gorgeous holiday windows on 1000 third ave and 59th st.

 

  • Grand Central Holiday Fair Market – Stay warm in this indoor holiday market located in Grand Central Station. I like to grab something to eat from the adjacent food vendors.

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Downtown

  • Wall Street Christmas Tree- Visit the Christmas tree on Wall Street. The surrounding buildings are decorated and are lit up at night. Don’t forget to pass Trinity Church which is also decorated and Zuccotti Park which has small Christmas trees that are lit in the evening.

 

  • Flat Iron District-Visit the tree at Madison Square Park. A tree lighting ceremony will take place Dec 6th from 3:30-5:30pm.

 

  • Ice Skate at the Standard The hotel in the Meatpacking district opens its skating rink to guests and the general public from December 20th to the end of March.

 

  • Union Square Holiday Market-Visit the market which runs until December 24th. Buy from local vendors and eateries, visit the kids art studio and heat up in the warming station and lounge.

 

Other Boroughs

  • Holiday Train Show– The New York Botanical Garden host the Holiday Train Show. It showcases miniature New York City landmarks all made of natural materials.

 

  • Vintage Subway Museum– Open year round, explore what subway cars used to look like in the main branch of the museum in downtown Brooklyn. If you plan to stay in Manhattan, visit the smaller museum at the Grand Central Gallery Annex and Store.

 

  • Astoria Holiday Market– A Holiday market in Astoria Queens that sells vintage goods and food. Open December 9th and 16th at the Bohemian Hall.

 

  • Winter Fest at the Brooklyn Museum– The Brooklyn Botanical Garden teams up with the Brooklyn Museum to create an indoor winter wonderland. Activities include live performances, food, a tree maze, Santaland and an array of activates for the whole family.

 

  • Dyker Heights Lights- Houses in Brooklyn are decorated with spectacular light shows. Great Christmas Light Fight anyone? Located on Dyker Heights Blvd from 83rd st-86th.

 

There are so many more things to do! Did I miss a must for you? Are you planning to visit NYC this Christmas season? Let me know in the comments an on social media!-T.S.

 

Lifestyle

22 Must See Movies and Shows on Netflix

November 18, 2018

 

 

Netflix

 

So let me just start off by saying that this was not going to be my blog post today. But because of technology not cooperating and fine print for a gift list post I was going to do, I can’t write what I originally wanted to. I recorded my first video for IGTV, but because the “Clips’ app for the iPhone is not working I’ll have to figure out when I can put that up another time. Any suggestions on free editing apps for IGTV? So two ideas down and I decided why not write about something we all do? Watch Netflix! I would be highly surprised if anyone commented that they don’t have Netflix. But who knows.

 

My list ranges from movies and shows in English, Spanish, Italian, French and Finnish. I love anything British and I don’t mind subtitles so skip those if subtitles are a no-go for you. I’m mainly into mysteries, suspense, and historical genres so if you’re looking for something mushy to watch I can’t help you there. I’m not much of a romantic so I don’t watch a lot of romance. The most romantic movie for me of all time is the “Titanic” and well they all die don’t they? Like I said, not one for mush. So here are the current must see’s on Netflix for me and here’s an older list!

 

P=Period Drama

Spanish (Spain and Argentina)

  • P Velvet and Velvet Collection: These shows are a little bit older, but I still suggest them. The premise is about the Velvet department store and the people who own it and work in it. It’s a clash of societies, the turn of women’s rights, fashion and yes love set in Spain. Velvet is the original show and Velvet Collection was the spinoff.

 

  • P Cable Girls: Set in Spain this show follows the stories of a set of friends who are also cable girls (phone cables) in the 1920’s. For being set in the past the topics covered like abuse, homosexuality and women’s rights are surprisingly relevant. And the FASHION!

 

  • P Gun City: Also set in the 1920’s in Spain this movie showcases the political clashes of the anarchist vs the police. Dirty cops, a possible civil war, flappers and some true Spanish history get mixed into this movie.

 

  • Elite: If you like highschool dramas this one is for you. It’s a murder mystery dealing with different class societies as three students from an urban area get a chance to go to a private high school.

 

  • Edha: A highly successful fashion designer must find a way to save her brand after a sweatshop tragedy. There’s only one problem her new lover is trying to ruin the company, or is he? The fashion is amazing here as well!

Netflix

USA

  • One Day at a Time: This remake follows a Cuban-American family as they go through many situations that a lot of Latino-American families do. It is hilarious thanks to Rita Moreno and heart-warming thanks to the rest of the cast.

 

  • Seven Seconds: Regina King’s performance in this is gripping. Set in New Jersey this series tackles police shootings of unarmed black kids. Corrupt cops and a mother who will stop at nothing to uncover what really happened to her son set the tone.

 

  • Travelers: Time travelers who come back in the bodies of present people try to prevent atrocities and make sure events go the way they’re supposed to. I’m still watching this but I like it so far.

 

  • P The Frontier: This is a Canadian/American show starring Jason Momoa (Game of Thrones) as a Native American who is trying to balance his relationships with his Irish ties while trying to take down a ruthless fur trading company.

 

  • Altered Carbon: Set in the future Takeshi Kovacs is now in a different body. He has to solve his own murder, while trying to remember who he really is in the first place.

 

  • Grace and Frankie: This comedy features Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin as two women who figure out what their lives look like after they find out their husbands are gay.

 

  • The Sinner– This thriller features Jessica Biel as a woman who suddenly murders someone in front of a huge crowd of people. Has she lost her mind or is this mom next door not who she seems to be?

 

French

  • La Mante: This thriller follows a detective whose mother is a serial killer serving time in prison. To solve a new set of serial murders he must ask for her help. Why? The new killer is copycat.

 

Australian

  • Secret City: A political murder mystery and many cover-ups.

 

Finnish (Finland)

  • Deadwind: Detective Sofia Karppi is investigating a murder that’s tied to a high-powered energy company. Although her personal life is a mess thanks to a death, she follows her gut to solve the murder. Many times putting herself in the crosshairs of corrupt characters and the murderer.

 

British

  • Bodyguard: Richard Madden (Game of Thrones) is the newly appointed bodyguard to the UK Home Secretary. But can he protect her from people in the government?

 

  • Luther: Idris Elba is amazing in this as a detective trying to solve serial murders. After a death close to home his personal life becomes intertwined. Not to mention his admirer or is she a stalker?

 

  • P The Crown: If you haven’t already watched this, what are you waiting for! It tells the story of Queen Elizabeth and the rest of the royal family. The lives they wish they had, the things they should not have done and so much more!

 

  • P The Last Kingdom: Originally born in Britain but raised by Vikings, Uhtred has to decide who he is and who he will fight for.

 

  • P Peaky Blinders: This is one of my favorite shows! Gang rivalries, illegal gambling, and the rise of a very smart and ambitious leader (Cillian Murphy). Adrien Brody and Tom Hardy also make appearances as opposing gang leaders. Its sooo good.

 

  • The Great British Baking Show: This adorable show follows home bakers who must compete for the title of Champaign. Every week they bake three times, and are judged by Marry Berry and Paul Hollywood.

 

  • Collateral: This mini series features Carrie Mulligan as the lead investigator. After a pizza delivery gone wrong a death leads to a politically involved plot.

 

 

 

Did I miss any you love? What are your must see’s on Netflix? Do you love certain genres like I do? Have you seen any that made my list? Let me know in the comments and on social media!-T.S.

P.S. Make sure you subscribe for access to my freebies! I’m always thinking of new ones to make!

Blogging Lifestyle Uncategorized

Why I Took A Break From Blogging

November 4, 2018
Why I took a break form blogging

 

After NY Fashion Week in September I took a break that was not planned from blogging, writing and most of social media. I specify not planned because I had more blog posts planned that couldn’t get published. I’m a workaholic and if it were up to me I’d be working and writing non-stop. Although your body without you realizing or wanting to pay attention to it, really does need breaks. Mine came in the form of a self-sustained injury, that affected the one thing bloggers, editors and pretty much everyone needs, your hands and arms.

 

My injury, strained ligaments has not allowed me to do much as the way to heal is by doing exactly that, not much. You can imagine I have been going a bit stir crazy not being able to write, answer emails without assistance, and not doing my daily social media posts. As bloggers, that is part of the course, we put out content, receive feedback and interact with our readers and followers. It starts all over again as soon as we create new content, but due to the injury none of this was getting done. What I did enjoy from this break was just relaxing and not caring about comments or feedback.

 

Because of my injury I was also forced to turn down a few jobs, which was frustrating to say the least. To pass the time I was able to read the book When Through Deep Waters, it was one of the few things I could do that didn’t need much movement. If you’re looking for a good book to read, I highly recommend it!

why I took a break from blogging

If you’re into spiritual and mystery filled books, this book is for you.

 

The pain of strained ligaments is a very sharp and shooting pain which for me runs from my hands up to my arms. It’s hard to open, pull, write and pretty much do anything without hurting the injury. Everything I did had to be done gently or not get done at all. Even as I write this blog post I have to take breaks because of the pain. Although I feel 90% better, the pain still flares up when I write for too long. I managed to heal by switching between hot and cold applications, wrapping my arms in ACE bandages and a lot of rest.

 

Although I’m pretty stubborn and I HATE not being able to do anything. I have an A type personality, I’m a get it done and get it done now type of person when it comes to business. So I will admit by trying to do certain things before I was really ready, I probably made the healing process longer.

 

 

This is not the first time an injury or pain has hindered my ability to work or go to school in the past. When I was in the later years of high school I began to have severe stomach problems. I was always in pain, nauseous or not able to eat. I was also stressed, which is something that makes matters worse. My mother took me to many doctors and specialist who diagnosed me with the wrong aliments. Which in turn put me on wrong medications, just to see what would work. This process repeated itself and included trips to the E.R., therapists and more specialists for a year. Until we finally found a good Gastroenterologist who would see me.

 

Convincing my new Gastro that it wasn’t all in my head was a hurdle at first as well. After more tests, my doctor finally gave me the official diagnosis of IBS. Although it was hard for even doctors to admit that I had it, due to the fact that at the time it was diagnosis normally given to the elderly. Which is not the case any longer, IBS has now been proven to occur in teens and there are specific medications available now, something I did not have.

 

I went through my first year of college in pain, taking breaks in between classes to hide and take naps in the car. Thanks to a trip to a nutritionist who taught me the proper diet, and the correct pain meds from my Gasto, I was able to learn how to control my IBS. This diagnosis took a year or two out of my life, but because it did and I was able to bounce back I knew my hand and arm injury was just a drop in the bucket. Although patient, I am not.

 

Why I took a break form blogging

My article! Go check it out with the link below!

 

My entry back into writing came in a great form and I couldn’t wait to share it. I was asked to write an article for the well-known Latinx website, Mitu.com and I’m very happy with the outcome. Not just because of the article itself, but because the job had time constraints and strict guidelines I had to follow. It was also a collaborative piece as I had to work with the editor. To come back to writing not just with my blog but with something that had to be judged and approved by someone I don’t know, was a huge accomplishment for me.

 

It reassured me once again on why I love to write and how easy it comes to me. Here is the link to the article! Sadly my byline was not added, as it is up to the website, but I’m excited about it just the same! The cash was a bonus as well!

 

Have you ever gone through pain, physical or otherwise that hindered your work or something you love to do? How did you get past it? What did it teach you?-T.S.

Travel

My Stay at Club Quarters Midtown

June 24, 2018
CQ Hotel

Two weekends ago I stayed at a Club Quarters Hotel in midtown due to consecutive events, the Jeval Beauty Event and the Puerto Rican Day Parade. One that my mom wanted to attend and the other she ended up attending anyway. Due to these events she thought it would be a good idea to stay close to at least one of these locations instead of paying for transportation twice. And being that I left the Jeval event around almost 10 pm and had to be at my meeting point for the parade at 8 am, I was glad she suggested it. Now don’t get me wrong, I would have still found a way to make both work but this option was less exhausting, for the both of us. She found a great priced room at Club Quarters Hotel located on the same block as Radio City Music Hall via Priceline. Learn about this cute hotel below! Locals let me know if you’ve stayed in this hotel and what other hotels you’ve stayed in to make an event or your workload easier. This is not a sponsored post I just happen to really like this hotel!

 

Amenities/ Extras

Here are the in-room amenities available to guests. The room comes stocked with an iron, ironing board, extra blankets and pillows. They also offer the option of leaving garments to be left for cleaning or to be put in storage, as well as same day and overnight dry cleaning with a laundry bag already located in your room. Their fitness room is small and doesn’t have any spectacular views but its open 24/7. They supply every room with a yoga mat and the gym is equipped with machines, refillable water bottles, towels, a scale and more yoga mats. The room also came equipped with a desk with a charging station, lamp and comfortable chair. I planned to use this convience but ended up being too exhausted to work at the end of the night.

The next amenity that I thought was very considerate and that I wished I would have asked for was the option to receive a “Sleep Better Kit”. This includes a humidifier, air purifier, and sound therapy machine. I was so exhausted the night before the parade that I didn’t think to ask for any of these, but I wish I would have asked for a sound machine. I sleep with one at home and it really helps me rest. It also would have helped block out the sound of playing kids next to us and the sudden police sirens… because duh NEW YORK CITY. But exhaustion, melatonin and turning on the air for the sound took over shortly.

I didn’t get a chance to take advantage of their dining options which included the following. The Terrace Club on the rooftop which had views of the city or the attached restaurant Johnny Utah’s next to the lobby. Room service and the ability to use the service/ app Seamless and have it delivered to your room was also an option. For convenience they also offer chilled, purified water machines on all floors as well as ice machines and buckets.

The final amenities were that of the business services. The hotel came equipped with free WIFI as well as wireless and Airpinting. They also have meeting facilities and a Club Living Room with work stations complete with universal charging stations and refreshments. These I didn’t get to check out, but I’m sure would be useful for large meetings and extra space for working. They provide four types of rooms as well as corporate apartments which can be booked for a 30 day stay or longer. Gold Rewards are offered to employees and guest of member organizations. Gold Reward perks include free nights, upgrades and gift cards to retailers

 

The App

Club Quarters Hotels has a corresponding app. The CQ Hotels app allows you to check in or out without having to go to the front desk. It also allows you to keep track of your reservations and your rewards points. The app can be used for any hotel under the CQ branch as well a partner hotels. CQ Hotels has hotels in multiple locations of New York Boston, Chicago, London, Philadelphia, San Francisoco and Washington DC. All giving you options to check in, find directions to the hotel and parking as well as order an Uber. The app also informs users about the hotel and what it offers as well as the ability to connect with guest services when you are in the hotel. You can control the tv with a remote via the app and you can also download a mobile key for the room. Finally you can find things  to do with suggestions by the hotel like to where to eat, enjoy night life and shop. There are also recommendations by TripAdvisor within the app.

CQ Hotel

 

The Room

The room itself I absolutely loved because it was tidy, clean, stylish and well stocked. I absolutely hate when I go to a hotel and there are not enough towels or you have to call for something to be brought up, changed, fixed, etc. When you walk into the room, just like when you meet someone you have first impressions and these were great. I loved how much sunlight came into the room and the fact that we could see Rockefeller Center and the NBC Building. I also loved how well light and modern both the room and bathroom were. The bed was well made and positioned well with multiple lighting options in the night stands. The desk was one of my favorite parts because it was functional and inspiring. If you’ve read my office space post I tell you a bit of how I have it set up. And this office space was similar, clean, inspiring and comfortable with a charging station! They also furnished the room with an extra chair and coffee station with a Keurig while the tv recognized you each time you turned it on. I also liked the color scheme which matched that of the office art and was relaxing.

 

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Things to do/ Things Near By/ Transportation

The hotel is perfectly located in midtown near Radio City Music Hall and Rockerfeller Center. Its also walking distance to Fifth Ave and Times Square/Broadway. Not to far from Times Square is Bryant Park and The New York Public Library. Also not far is Macys’, Herald Square and the Flat Iron Building.  All along midtown where the hotel is situated are things tourist aren’t goin to want to miss.  The hotel is also a block away from the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) if you care to stop into a museum. While Central Park is only six blocks away if you want to walk to the beginning of the park. The closest subways are the D, F and the E, M which can take you up and down Manhattan. If you have a little girl or daughter with you, you many want to go into American Girl which is on the same block as the hotel! Not far is also the famous Momofuku Milk Bar, Nobu, St.Patricks Cathedral and sooo much more. Another point to make is since this hotel is situated on a street and not an avenue and not right on top on Times Square it was a little less crowded. Two blocks away from the hotel is also a Enterprise Rent-A-Car if you prefer to drive instead of taking public transportation.

 

I hope this helps you if you are looking for hotel options! Have you ever stayed at a Club Quarters Hotel? What was your experience like? If not, I highly recommend it!- T.S.