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3 Lessons From My Second Reel

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Hello Pretties,

Reels? Who me? Yep me! Instagram is still my favorite social media platform and Reels just made me love it even more. Reels like its cousin TikTok are short videos, almost always accompanied by music or a voiceover. Now, some reels are super good with amazing transitions and some reels are informative on every level from relationships, cooking, fitness, and of course fashion, to beauty. And, some are so dang funny that I can’t help but laugh out loud at some of the foolishness. So many young folks do Reels and TikToks and I admit I was intimidated but I really wanted to try it out. My first reel was just a series of photos super easy, so I had to pick something else a bit more challenging!

After weeks of watching reel after reel, I saw quite a few people doing the one that is basically an intro, where you share some key tidbits about yourself. It is accompanied by the song Zodiac by Will Gittens.

It was on and poppin’ once I made my choice. Did I tell y’all it took 2 weeks for me to figure this out? I was trying to remember the lyrics and match my pointing (see below) to the music. That was a fail. I could not quite nail it.

Then a lightbulb moment, it is not the music, it is the count. There were 7 movements so I just needed to point in 7 different directions! Then I headed to YouTube University and studied how to add the text to sync with the music. 

Put on cute graphic tee that catches the eye and voila, you got a reel! I was on cloud-9 and it dawned on me this was so fun, but I learned some things!

3 Lessons

  1. When you learn new things, you create new neural pathways, which is fantastic for the brain. As we age, we need to keep learning and trying new things. I made my brain happy while helping stave off conditions such as dementia.
  2. What a confidence booster! I was perfectly happy watching reels from the sidelines, but now I am part of the action. It was not a flawless performance, but I will get better over time.
  3. You are never too old to do anything…PERIOD!

I say keep trying new things no matter how daunting or intimidating they may seem. What new thing have you tried lately?

robincharmagne

If We Were Having Coffee -Vol VII

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Hello Pretties,

Sipping on a delicious cup of Panera Light Roast, pretty flavorful but definitely a milder taste. I am so excited to bring back this feature on the blog today. In these super casual blog posts, I share the people, places, and things that have been on my mind lately. If we were having coffee…

  1. I would tell you to watch The Black Godfather, the life of Clarence Avant on Netflix. With a ninth grade education, Mr. Avant was able to influence and connect people from all industries and walks of life. I mean including Presidents – powerful! I cried, I laughed, I cheered. It’s a worth a watch!
  2. I would tell you, there is a Nordstrom Anniversary Sale up ahead! Plaid and Animal prints are popping for the Fall. This is great opportunity to snag new boots, hoping these pink boots are in the sale. And don’t forget to check out the Home department for some home decor steals!
  3. I would tell you I have a slight earring addiction. Currently crushing on acrylic earrings, these, these and these. No matter your size, you can still rock a pair of stylish earrings.
  4. I would tell you about the fun I am having posting positive words on my Instastories…#wordsmatter!! Follow my Instagram here.
  5. I would tell you to start studying these 2020 Presidential candidates. Find which issues they “say” are important to them, e.g, women’s rights, immigration, education, health care, tax reform, etc. This election is critical, we have to make informed choices.

That’s all folks. Planning a quiet weekend, what are y’all up to? Have a good one!

robincharmagne

Candytopia – Let’s Go

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Hello pretties,

Candytopia is coming to Atlanta and I am excited about being invited to the media sneak peek next week. I am not sure what to expect but I have heard Candytopia is colorful, interactive and Instagrammable! Oh and made of candy, yes you read that right candy. I will have a full review after the sneak peek, but until then, here is more on the installations and how to get tickets…

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Mellow Yellow – Color Trends

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Hello pretties,
Of course I’m talking about Beyonce…again. Yellow appears to be the color trend that she really gravitates toward in her videos and performances. Most recently at Beychella and the infamous Hold Up video from the Lemonade album. Beyonce wore a beautiful flowy, dreamy Roberto Cavalli dress, with layers and layers of ruffles. In celebration of yellow, I hand picked some finds for home and fashion in this soft but sexy color.

Yellow is fast becoming a favorite. I use it prominently in my dining room and I have added a few yellow pieces to my collection of cute tops. It can be hard to wear if the shade is too light for your complexion, just looks faded. If you are going to try yellow, I say be bold with it and get a strong yellow. You can pair it with black or white or add another color for interest like, green, brown, or red. Ease into this sunny, fun color with an accent piece like a bright crossbody handbag or summer slides or in your home with a rug or pillows.

Do you rock yellow in your home or in fashion?

robincharmagne

Beyonce And Competiton

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Hey pretties,
I really have been on a Beyonce kick lately and drum roll, she is my Woman Crush Wednesday. Still thinking about the Coachella, er Beychella performance. Honestly, I didn’t know and still don’t know too much about Coachella. Is it like Woodstock? LOL Did I just age myself? So if it is, I imagined she would be on stage in daisy dukes, a tee, and a flower wreath. She would proceed to sing a few songs and that would be it, nothing too big. Welllll babbeee, was I wrong. I will not rehash the amazing performances, you can catch the first one on Youtube.

This girl recreated the HBCU experience, complete with drum majorette, 200 member marching band, with a drum-line and horns, dancers, a majorette who twirled not one but two batons, a group of pledges, stepshow, Les Twins, a dance party with Solange, duet with hubby, The Negro National Anthem, swag and surf ANNDDDD a Destiny’s Child mini-reunion. Really? Really Beyonce? You had to to all that? You so extra!!! Well yes she did. She outdid herself. In her own words…

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For me, her performances were a lesson for us all, creatives, entrepreneurs, working moms, college students etc. You compete with no one but yourself and even at the height of your success, don’t get comfy, push yourself to do more. Be better than the last time. Let’s face it, she did not have to do THE MOST, after all, she’s sold 100 million records and has 22 Grammys. And by a lot of standards is the top female performer today. She could sit back and coast or do THE LEAST. But no, she challenged herself to bring a unique experience/performance to Coachella. My takeaway, it does not matter where you are on your journey to success, do THE MOST all the time. Out do YOU!

What lessons if any did you take from Beychella?

robincharmagne

Image: Quotidiano.net via Google
*I do not own the rights to this photo

5 Thoughts On Black Panther – Monday Musing

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Hi pretties,
As they say, unless you have been living under a rock, you have either heard about or have seen, several times, the movie Black Panther. Crazy good, making $700 million at the box office and still counting. Yes, I have seen it and plan to see it a few more times and definitely in 3D. As a confessed nerd, I was ecstatic that so many folks who don’t really like action or superhero flicks really embraced this genre of movie. It was spectacular from start to finish but in between the car chases and epic fight scenes, I made a few observations on Black Panther, take a peek…
*Note: possible spoilers ahead!

My Thoughts

1. Family is everything, good, bad, or down right ugly. But, family secrets are the worst and create those “generational” curses that destroy familial bonds. We need to talk more and electric slide less at the family reunion – let’s address our stuff to make our families stronger.
2. You may not have vibranium, but if you know where they selling it, let me know…LOL! Everyone has resources, a set of unique gifts and talents – sewing, cooking, writing, speaking, etc. Do not be afraid to share all that magic with others, you will benefit just as much as the receiver.
3. No matter what the world says, there is no one definition of beauty. The Dora Milaje warriors were simply stunning. Learn to embrace and appreciate your own beauty and define your own beauty standards.
4. My Mama says this so often, “You don’t know who will give you your last drink of water.” Don’t burn your bridges, you don’t know where your help will come from. Perhaps from an old CIA pal or the so fine dude from another tribe, M’Baku, he could save me any day of the week – I digress. Don’t hold grudges, forgive and move on.
5. We need wayyy more, a lot more women in technology. That fabulous technology in Wakanda was created by Shuri, a woman. Our young girls need to see these images. Heck all women need to see more images of women in technology fields. If you are interested in a tech career or learning more, checkout Women Who Code!

I LOVED THIS MOVIE. #thatisall

Have you seen Black Panther? Yes? Let me know what your thoughts about this movie and T’Challa’s fine self, oops digressing again. If you have not, I’ll go with you!!!

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robincharmagne

If We Were Having Coffee – VI

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Hello pretties,
It’s Friday and I’m sitting down with a cup of Caramel Macchiato ready to have a fab Friday! Here’s what I would share If We Were Having Coffee…

1. I think I have my blogging groove back. Yesss, it took some time to get my mind right and get all my post ideas and photos organized and planned out. But it is on now and my 5-year blogaversary is coming up to boot!
2. I love a good book, especially a book that is informative and challenges my thinking. This book The Slight Edge meets both. Simple steps you can take everyday to make positive changes in your life. Good read!
3. I am not the biggest fan of Chris Brown, but I have to say his docu-movie really opened my eyes to the perils of success for these young superstars. He is really talented – sings, dances, acts, draws, paints, and is an athlete as well. Check out Chris Brown: Welcome To My Life. If he walks the straight and narrow, he could be the next Michael Jackson!
4. I love these Gucci Marmont mules, but I found a good dupe at Charlotte Russe at a much lower price point. You be the judge…LOL
5. If you are traveling to a cool locale with a pretty language, The Urban Eve has some cool tips for learning a foreign language!

I’m ready for the weekend and ready to get out and enjoy summer! What are you doing this weekend?

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Linking with these lovely bloggers.

robincharmagne
Images:
GDemeritte Photography

If We Were Having Coffee

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Hello pretties,
Let’s have a cup of coffee! This might be a regular series where we just chat it up, but for now, If We Were Having Coffee…

I would tell you I am binge watching Marvel’s Luke Cage on Netflix this weekend. I have heard sooo much about this show and being a sci-fi nerd, can’t wait to watch it!

I would tell you I am on the hunt for an oversized denim jacket. The longer style to accommodate junky sweaters or a hoodie. I don’t own one, can you believe it?

I would tell you I’m trying this pretty but super easy DIY from blogger babe Faithnista.

I would tell you I want to try meal delivery service to help me with this messy diet of mine – Real Meal Delivery or Peach Dish.

What would you tell me over coffee? Have a lovely weekend!

Linking with these lovely bloggers.

robincharmagne

Springtime – How To Enjoy Warm Days And Long Nights

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Hey pretties,
It is the third day of Spring and the weather acts like it does not know what’s up! Brrrr. But we still get to have happy thoughts of green grass, blooming flowers and warmer days. Springtime is the best time of the year to try new things and get out and explore. I am back this year with another list of things to do inside and outside to dazzle and delight. I really enjoy these posts, checkout this one and this one.

1 – Happy spaces make happy faces – adding this or this in a bright yellow
2 – Fresh is best but these tulips are so beautiful for any room in your home
3 – The Dogwood Festival celebrates its 80th year, a big Atlanta tradition – celebrating art among beautiful dogwood trees
4 – Since we have all read The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, it’s time to have a garage or yard sale for all the things you have de-cluttered from your home. These tips will help you get ready for the sale so you can make a whole lotta coins
5 – Move over Mojito – well not really, still my favorite libation. But, how about trying a refreshing sangria, this one sounds yummy
6 – It is time to open the windows and let a nice breeze flow throughout your home, but first clean those windows with this, and it is environmentally friendly
7 – Longer Springtime days mean more sunshine, you need some new sunglasses. The pearl chain is so ladylike and you won’t lose these
8 – Easter is right around the corner, don’t go humdrum and decorate with food coloring, deck out some Easter eggs for the kiddos
9 – For a grown-up night, enjoy some real live jazz music at The High, The High Museum of Art to be exact. Elegant and Entertaining
10 – Lace is so perfect for Springtime. This little number in bright orange is a must have and in the trendy off the shoulder styling

Looking forward to checking these things off the list!

What are you looking forward to doing for Spring?

Linking with these lovely bloggers.

robincharmagne

Flawless Fashion At The Oscars

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Hi Pretties,
Flawless Fashion on the last day of February! Yes we are talking Oscar Fashions and I looked at all the red carpet fashion and I was underwhelmed. Yes there were some flawless looks from faves like Charlize Theron who could wear literally anything and rock it. She is always a winner, but I just wasn’t giddy about any look – so I picked my top 3 starlets who were flawless. Take a peek (may load a tad slower)…

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Lady Gaga wearing Brandon Maxwell

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Kerry Washington wearing Versace

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Mindy Kaling wearing Elizabeth Kennedy

Lady Gaga was a vision of perfection encompassing two popular trends, the capelet and menswear. The color white worked well for this ensemble – a feminine, glam look. I think black would have looked too menswear-ish but the white adds elegance. Kerry Washington is another one that almost never misses the mark. I love how the leather accents do not overpower but are just enough to add a “gladiator” vibe to this gown, but still keeps it classy. And, Mindy Kaling, love her first of all and second of all classic glam. Y’all know how I love off the shoulder styles and this dress fits Mindy perfectly in classic black and a beautiful train in a pop of color. Now I will say, I didn’t like the bag choice and maybe I would have added some embellishment at the waist, but she still nailed it.
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So happy to see this guy win! I haven’t seen the movie he won for this year – The Revenant, but I am adding it to the must see list. My two faves featuring Leo are The Departed, so dang good with twists and turns you will not anticipate. And, my second fave Catch Me If You Can. So fun watching him live all these different personas and not get caught!

And, a final word kudos to Chris Rock! Hope to see you next year.

Did you watch the Oscars? Who wore it best?

Linking with these lovely bloggers.

robincharmagne

Images via