Fish Oil

Fish Oil pills, fish oil helps your heart in many ways it reduces the chances of heart diseases and it also helps high cholestrol,cancer and so on so forth. You might think one word when you hear fish oil pills 'gross' but it's really good for you, most pills you won't have a fishy aftertaste and knowing that your body is getting the nutrients that it needs will make you more satisfied.
I have also read that fish oil can reduce chances of depression, anxiety, arthritis, it also helps in weight loss , pregnancy and skin care. It also boosts your immune system! :o) Fish oil pills have the benefits of the 3 essential fatty acids such as Docosahexaenoic acid(DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
So think again everyone! Fish oil is great for you!


Til I écrire de nouveau,

Abrielle Etoile

Speak - Laurie Halse Anderson

If you like books with drama and lots of emotion then the book Speak is right for you.Speak is written by Laurie Halse Anderson in 1999. I have to say that Speak will and has always been my favorite book. I had to read it in eighth grade for an english assignment and once I read the first page I was hooked!
Speak is about a highschool girl named Melinda Sordino who is the outcast of her school.
Melinda and a few friends were invited to a party and they get drunk and she meets an upperclassman. Whose name is Andy Evans (the hot stud) she was raped that night and she called the cops during the party. Everyone despised her after that and no one would talk to her.
I now hope you guys read it to hear the ending. You'll be really suprised :o) I know I was!

Any questions or comments? Comment below or email me at elleaditce@yahoo.com, subject "Dear Abrielle Etoile"


Til I écrire de nouveau,

Abrielle Etoile

The great swimsuit timeline

She wore an itsy bitsy teeny weenie yellow polka dot--Sorry. Couldn’t help it! Ever wonder what it is that that made the swimsuit what it is today? Well, I’ve done the research and traced its origins back to the 18th century. Before then, people swam either in their clothes…or in nothing at all!



1800’s



1920’s



1930’s



1940’s



1950’s



1960’s



1970’s



1980’s



1990’s


XXOO Rosalie

Quick Apartment Find

I apologize for the quick or lack there-of posts this week; as you all know, it is Spring Break and we've all been a bit busy. We'll be more on it come next Spring Break. We apologize (:


Anywho, I thought I'd post this quick find. . . they're called Bouquet Buffet Plates, and its a whole set of them. Unfortunately, they're extraordinarily expensive ($41.99 for just a set of four) but they're gorgeous. I'm sure you can find similar-looking plates/sets at your local thrift store, so don't be put down just yet! I've actually thought of doing something similar, but we'll keep that project under wraps until the time comes . . . (;




Aren't they adorable? You can find them on modcloth.com under 'Apartment' and 'Kitchen and Bath'.


Any questions or comments? Comment below or email me at elleaditce@yahoo.com, subject "Dear Jolie-Miette"


Salut!


Jolie-Miette

Colon Cleansing!

I know as we get older our bodies become more attractant to health problems. Today I want to talk about colon cleansing. Don't go and buy those expensive pills that could potientally be harmful to you. You can make shakes and other natural healthy contents that will clean your colon and not destroy your insides.
Two ingredients that work the best are Psyllium husk and bentonite clay. Psyllium is fiber from a plant and bentonite is edible volcanic ash. You can get psyllium in husk or powder form so whatever you think would be better you can choose from those two.
Psyllium husk forms a gel like substance when you mix it with water when it goes through your digestive tract it will take all those toxins and some fats and will remove them. Make sure you drink lots of water when you use psyllium husk. When it draws toxins out it will also take water with it so you need to hydrate yourself by drinking lots of water.
Bentonite clay, which is also known as volcanic ash is used as a laxative. It binds all the chemicals, bacteria and other harmful things and guides them out of your system. Bentonite has been proven to improve digestion and your liver function. Also make sure you are drinking lots of water therefore your body stays hydrated


Til I écrire de nouveau,

Abrielle Etoile

Celtic Knots

I only have a moment, but I thought I'd post this quick Art post about Celtic Knots. I haven't done much research on them, but from what I've read they have a unique and interesting history.

Here is a link to an article about the Celtic knots.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Celtic_knot

Enjoy (:

Jolie-Miette

Fettucine with Spinach, Butter and Cream and Caesar Salad - Can You Say YUM?

So this week I made two delicious recipes from the cookbook, "How to Cook Everything" by Mark Bittman. They were easy to do, only took me about an hour to make, and as healthy as you can get! Whole wheat fettuccine, organic lettuce and eggs, organic spinach, and organic butter? It was delicious!

Quick tip: I suggest you make the Caesar salad first, so you can fully concentrate on that, which will make it easier and faster. Cover and chill once you are through.

Caesar Salad

Original Recipe:

Makes 4 Servings

Time: 20 minutes

1 clove garlic, cut in half

2 eggs, or substitute 1/2 cup pasteurized egg product

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons minced anchovies, or to taste

Dash Worcestershire sauce

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 large head romaine lettuce, trimmed, washed, dried,

and torn into bits

Garlic Croutons

1/2 to 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1. Rub the inside of your salad bowl with the garlic clove; discard it.
2. Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Pierce a tiny hole in the broad end of each of the eggs with a pin or a needle and boil them for 60 to 90 seconds; they will just begin to firm up. Crack them into the salad bowl, making sure to scoop out the white that clings to the shell.
3. Beat the eggs with a fork, gradually adding the lemon juice and then the olive oil, beating all the while.
4. Stir in the anchovies and the Worcestershire. Taste and add salt if needed and plenty of pepper. Toss well with the lettuce; top with the croutons and Parmesan, then bring to the table and toss again. Serve immediately.

My Take on It:

Makes 4-6 servings

2 organic eggs

Two thick-ish slices of lemon to squeeze

6 tables of olive oil

Dash of Worcestershire sauce

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1 large head romaine lettuce, trimmed, washed, dried,

and torn into bits

Garlic Croutons

1. Get the two eggs and boil them for 60 seconds (set a timer once the water has begun to boil.) I let them sit in the water for a minute, but I think this overcooked them. Take them out as soon as possible, run them under cool water (in order not to burn your fingers while taking the eggs out of their shells) and crack them open into a bowl. Don't forget to get all of the egg out of the shell. Mash them up with a fork, and then start squeezing the lemon slices into the bowl. Add the olive oil and continue mixing the lemon juice and eggs together.
2. Add the dash of Worcestershire sauce and start salting and peppering the mixture. Don't add too much salt; barely salt it and then let your guests add as much salt as they like. Make sure to add a ton of pepper though.
3. Set aside the mixture and wash, trim, and tear your lettuce. make sure to dry the lettuce well, and pick out the bad pieces.
4. Throw the lettuce into the serving bowl, add the liquid mixture and toss well. Cover and put in the fridge until ready to serve.

Fettucine with Spinach, Butter and Cream

Original Recipe:

Makes about 4 servings

Time: about 30 minutes

10 ounces fresh spinach, trimmed, washed, and dried

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1/2 cup heavy cream, light cream, or half-and-half

1 pound spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine

1 cup freshly grate Parmesan cheese

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Chop the spinach coarsely. Over a medium heat melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet that can later be covered. Add the spinach, along with some alt and pepper. Cover, reduce the heat, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is very tender, about 10 minutes. uncover, add the cream, and cook gently for about 5 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, salt the boiling water and cook the pasta until it is tender but firm. When it is just about done, put the remaining butter in a large, warm bowl and add a couple of tablespoons of the cooking water. Drain the pasta and toss it with the butter and half the Parmesan. Add the spinach sauce and serve, passing the remaining Parmesan at the table.

My Take on It:

Makes about 6 servings

Approx. 6 ounces of fresh spinach, trimmed, washed, and dried

4 tablespoons of butter

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1/2 cup of half-and-half

A box of whole wheat linguine

1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese

1. I brought a large pot of water to a boil.
2. While I was waiting for it to boil, I washed about 75% of a 9 ounce bag of spinach. I then stuck it in a chopper and pulsed it until they were small little pieces. After that, I put the spinach on a skillet with 2 tablespoons of butter (YES use this much butter, it tastes and smells magnificent) and covered it to let it cook. Once it had been 10 minutes, I added the half-and-half and covered it again for another 5 minutes.
3. While the spinach was cooking, I salted the boiling water and cooked the pasta (it needs to be tender but firm.) When it was almost done, I warmed a large bowl, put 2 tablespoons of butter in it, and added 2 tablespoons of the cooking water.
4. After this, I drained the pasta and tossed it with the butter and Parmesan. I added the spinach sauce and served!

Now, to present, the finished product:

What I Would do Differently:

Again, I would make the salad FIRST. Its hard to time when things need to be done, especially if you are cooking a new recipe for the first time. I would also add olive oil to the fettuccine to make them a bit slick, and use fresh Parmesan. It served my family of 4, with plenty of leftover fettuccine, but no leftover Caesar, so I would use 2 heads of organic Romaine lettuce instead of 1.

How I Liked It:

I liked a hint of Thousand Island dressing on the salad with a lot of salt and pepper. My family said there needed to be more spinach, but I think there was just enough. If you want to add more spinach, go right ahead. Experiment a bit.

MAKE SURE to use ORGANIC items and CAGE FREE eggs, otherwise the whole 'healthy' part of it will just be a big flop.

Any questions or comments? Comment below or email me at elleaditce@yahoo.com, subject "Dear Jolie-Miette"

Salut!

Jolie-Miette

Small Spaces and Green Ideas

Now, as much as some of us would like, we don't have the fancy, nice big apartments that we see in movies these days (For example, Ginnifer Goodwin's character, Gigi Phillips from "He's Just Not That Into You" had a nice, spacious apartment with vintage items and an old telephone and a canopy-style bed . . .) We have tiny apartments that don't necessarily have a lot of room. To crush our creativity streaks even more, we don't have the money for nice, new things. So what do we do?

I was raised in a home that had a mixture of new and old. My mother was (and still is) pro at reusing old and seemingly useless items to decorate a home. For example, She took an old breadbox and painted it to look like it was textured, crackled, and pretty darn old - she got it at an antique store. And, it provided the perfect spot for hiding our dogs' leashes, our snacks, a stand for our microwave and our unscrupulous 'junk drawer'. I also remember going to stores full of thrown away items such as tiles, old wood, sinks and hardware. We frequented that store quite a bit, because it was cheap, my mother's kind of style and recycling (although I'm not sure if that crossed any of our minds while we were shopping.)

So where do you start? DIYs are usually fairly easy, and there are always great tutorials that you can find online. What about storage-that-doesn't-look-like-storage, such as nifty coffee tables that magically open up to reveal a nice place to store items for your living room? There are all sorts of DIYs - and items for sale - in order to create the illusion of a coffee table, when really it is a storage device.

Try searching in your town for stores such as the one I'm about to mention. With such a grand movement, there's bound to be a few stores nearby that are full of used items for a good price, such as this one.

Second Use is a Seattle-based store that has been reclaiming old building materials since 1994. They are a community business, meaning their items come from their local region.

The great man who started this business would be Roy Hunter, who is a contractor and an environmentalist. He started this business due to his frustration of watching all sorts of material being thrown away, when it could've easily been used elsewhere. You can see what is available right now here at their site. Also, check out what they've done with this great small garage room here

Where else can you find great deals? As always, I suggest garage sales and thrift stores. As long as you know how to sift through the garbage, you will almost always end up finding at least one treasure - maybe even something that can be used in many different ways.

Any questions or comments? Comment below or email me at elleaditce@yahoo.com, subject "Dear Jolie-Miette"

Salut!

Jolie-Miette

Fabulosity 101: Prom Dresses

Prom season is just around the corner, ladies! A night that celebrates friendship, blossoming romance, and memories that last a lifetime. That being said, we’re hoping those “lasting memories” are not ones of us in a too-tight pink spandex cloth of a dress, correct? Well, here’s your chance to learn from my mistakes, dearie--
(Yes, even Rosalie has fallen victim to a few fashion crimes.)

If you are:




Pear-shaped (That’s small chested with bigger hips)
Try a dress with a fitted (by “fitted I mean slightly tight) top and a full (poofy) or a-line skirt. Either way is fine, darling.













Slender (That’s a wee on the twiggish side)
This is the time to go for the too-tight cloth, this will create the allusion of curves. So go as tight as you want, my dear.


















Busty (Means you're blessed in the boobie area)
Go for a lower (but not plunging!) neckline, flaunt ‘em if you got ‘em, babe!




















Petite (Means you’re a shorty McPixie-pants)
Show a little leg and go for the always adorable short dress. Sweet and sassy, just like you, right?
















Hourglass (Perfectly proportioned…and I hate you. LOL.)
You, my dear can wear pretty much anything, no need for my advice.















Apple-shaped (What’s with all the fruits?)
I’m not so sure what that means, but it sure looks great in an empire waist!

　





Insider tip: Like the dresses? (Who doesn't?) find them here: http://promgirl.com/
　

Any questions? Drop me a line at elleaditce@yahoo.com, and make sure to subject it "Dear Rosalie"
Keep it fabulous, babe!
XXOO Rosalie　

Red Bull

Red Bull, I'm sure you've seen the commercials saying Red Bull gives you wings well sorry to break it to you but it's not quite true. Red Bull has to be my favorite energy drink out there. It also happens to be one of the best energy drinks for you. It has a 'tangy' flavor with a bit of lime after taste.
Even tho it doesn't give you wings it sure does stimulate your metabolism. It also improves your concentration. I know this for a fact because when I drink Red Bull I feel more focused and I actually do a lot better in school because I am so focused. As for the other energy drinks I have tried Red Bull beats them out of giving me more 'energy'. Red Bull also produces tons of Vitamin B in your system so you will be getting lots of Vitamin B everytime you drink it.
Red Bull can be pretty pricey but it's well worth the price. It doesn't take much to drink before your up and alert. If you are a big energy drink craver I suggest Red Bull. The cans may not be big but it sure does fill you up and it does what energy drinks are suppose to.


Til I écrire de nouveau,

Abrielle Etoile

DRINK ME - Edible Art

I’m sure that most of you readers drink some form of coffee: latte, mocha, hot, cold, with cream or without cream; there are tons of different varieties of coffee; there’s one particular kind, though, that is also categorized as an art form: latte art.

Latte art consists of steamed milk, drawing, and coffee. It is an art form that is difficult when it comes to consistency, but magnificent none the less!

To make these magnificent designs, you will need a steamer pitcher, coffee, milk, and a bit o' luck and patience.

Here are two good how-tos for creating these brilliant works of art!

http:// www.xpressivo.com /theespressoguide/recomended_latte_art.asp

http://www.wikihow.com/Make-Latte-Art


Any questions or comments? Comment below or email me at elleaditce@yahoo.com, subject "Dear Jolie-Miette"

Salut!

Jolie-Miette

America 2 lazy?! OMG!

Ipod, Wii, PSP, Myspace, text and IM. Names synonymous with the youth of this generation. Seems as if we’ve got an electrical device for everything nowadays. Can’t read a map? Get a GPS! Too busy to use an encyclopedia? Try Google! Too lazy to grow a garden? Use a Roll’n’Grow! And once you’ve done that you can use the Aqua Globe to water it for you! What ever happened to work? What has become of good ol’ fashioned blood, sweat, and tears? Has America completely forgotten what she stands for? “Give Me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses…”

Wake up America! It’s high time we pull the headphones out of our ears and start living, life is short enough as it is without wasting it away on myspace. When it’s gotten to the point when we’d rather text our friends than visit them it’s a sign we’re all in deep you-know-what! If we’re not careful, it could get way out of control. And OMG, that’s not good.


“If Mankind advances to the point where society has lost its humanity, then mankind may as well cease to exist.” -???

XXOO Rosalie

Whey Protein

What is Whey protein? Whey protein comes in powdered form it is a mix to make a protein drink. They have quite a bit of flavors such as strawberry, chocolate, vanilla and cookies and creme.
Whey protein is also used for diets they promote many things for your body. I did some research and I found out that Whey protein is not stored as fat as easily as carbs, it also helps repair muscle , strengthens your immune system, decreases your hunger, and it helps build muscle. I also found out that Whey protein is also vegetarian based.
Here is a recipe that I found on the internet that is cheap and good.

Freeze bananas and add 1-2 scoops of what flavor you'd best like with it,I use chocolate.

You can also get Whey protein at Walmart or you can get it online at Walmart.com. It's the cheapest place I have found it. It is only $12.


Til I écrire de nouveau,

Abrielle Etoile

10 Minute DIY Leg Warmers Craft Find

I was checking out one of my favorite blogs today and saw that she had posted a quick-and-easy DIY project: home made leg warmers. So, since today has been a pretty slow day, I decided to grab the sweater my best friend gave me awhile ago that I haven't worn and use the fabric I had left over from a previous project and voila! Leg warmers!

Aren't they cute? I thought they were absolutely adorable! I think these would look pretty adorable with shorts in the summer, or maybe leggings and a skirt? The possibilities are endless!

here is a link to the original post.


Any questions or comments? Comment below or send me an email at elleaditce@yahoo.com, subject "Dear Jolie-Miette"


Salut,

Jolie-Miette

Review: Kelsey-Metro Station

We all know teen sensation Metro Station for two things:

The dance-floor hit “Shake it”
…and Trace Cyrus (can you say “YUMMY?”)

But what some don’t know is that the band has newly released a third single from their self-titled album. It’s called “Kelsey,” and it’s making teen girls everywhere wish their name was! With its sweet melody and even sweeter lyrics, “Kelsey” is sure to knock Taylor Swift’s “Love Story” and “Our song” right off the list for most common teen love songs. “Kelsey” tells the tale of Kelsey, the girl this guy would do ANYTHING for, you can see from the lyrics she was hurt by others in the past, but he promises to protect her from anymore pain. Sappy yes…But oh so adorable! Just give it a listen:




“And I'll swim the ocean for you
The ocean for you
Whoa, Kelsey
And I'll swim the ocean for you
The ocean for you
Whoa, Kelsey
Oh you, darling…”

-Metro Station

…awww, I love it! Hope you do too.

Peace, love, && great freaking music
-Rosalie XXOO
　
　
　

Affordable Ideas for Decorating Your Bathroom

So, we all have trouble decorating our bathrooms, right? We don't know what colors we want, or the kind of artwork, and to make things even harder - if you live in an apartment - you can't paint. You have a tight budget, also, so . . . where do you start?

Etsy.com - Wash Your Hands Owl (16.00 US)

I thought this was just adorable - a little sign to hang in your bathroom. It has a vintage, quirky feel to it, and I love the colors together; light blue and brown has always been a favorite combination of mine. You can easily find (or make) things to match the pretty little sign; get brown and light blue towels, or if you can paint, use the light greyish-brown color for the walls with thin dark brown and light blue stripes: the possibilities are endless.

The price of this cute little owl art is a simple $16.00 for an 8x10 print.

Modcloth.com - Sous La Pluie Shower Curtain (29.00 US)

If you aren't able to paint, you're still in luck. Go with simple, black and white patterns. Black and white towels, matching soap dishes and this shower curtain (or any other that you can find.)

Now, this curtain is a tad expensive, but it is chic, simple, and easily matched. Have a friend who does photography? Have them print out an architectural photo for you to hang in your bathroom. Got a window in the bathroom? Hang up some simple black and white patterned curtains, matching your shower curtain, towels, and bathroom accessories.

Target.com - Tulip Shower Curtain (16.99 US)

This is a cheaper, but even more fun shower curtain than the last. It is a bold black and white, and (once again) can be easily matched up with accessories. You can easily find things to go with this anywhere. Target may even have a matching set to go with it.

Something Nifty: Target has something where you can search bathroom accessories by colors (I'm sure other stores have this too, but I just found it worthy of mentioning (: ) so if you ever have an accessory that needs matching up, just go to their site and click on the color you need (:

There are all sorts of great deals out there that make it cheap and affordable to decorate your home/apartment the way you want to; you just have to be choosy and know what you're looking for!

Have any questions or comments? Comment below or send me an email at elleaditce@yahoo.com, subject "Dear Jolie-Miette"

Salut, dolls (:

Jolie-Miette

5 Things Jolie-Miette Lovess

Hello lovelies (:

I've seen this "5 things I Love" all over the blogging world, so I thought I'd try it out. (No promises that it'll be permanent, I just like the idea (:)

1. She and Him

Just today I found this band by accident. Does the dame look familiar at all? She and Him lead singer happens to be Zooey Deschanel! I was so psyched when I found that she had a band (I adore her "Fabric of Life" commercial,) so I had to add her to this top 5. Isn't she adorable? She is the definition of all the styles I love - chic, classy and VINTAGE.

2. Reading

I've had a bit of a craving for knowledge lately; I can't help but check out a book that looks interesting to me. I have I'm not sure how many books checked out - pray that I don't lose any; I can't afford to buy a new one!
Anyway - my next book review will be about an essay I have been trying to finish for 2 months now: "The Architecture of Happiness" by Alain de Botton. It is a beautiful essay (novella?) about the way architecture affects our daily lives - to put it simply. Its magnificent (:

3. ModCloth Bookstore

I have found many intriguing notebooks (I'm a bit of a hog . . .) to say the least, but most importantly I have found interesting light-reading books for myself to check out when I feel like it. Plus - it brings about inspiration to my next posts (;

4. Europe

I love Europe. I love its' history, and how it shows with all its buildings and roads. It is enchanting to me, and I wish to someday live in their culture; I want to see what its like to live their easy-going way, rather than America's 'go-go-go' way. I love working hard, but they seem to have the right kind of mixture of life over there (:

5. Art

I love art. I love everything about art. If I had a choice, I'd sit in a class all day learning about different kinds of art and how to do it, and then I'd go out and apply what I learned every chance I got. I would live, breathe, EAT art (okay, maybe not EAT it, unless it was something like the above picture (:) I just love art. Its a big passion of mine, and I'm very blessed to have grown up (partly) around it!

What are 5 things you love? Let me know by commenting below or sending me an email at elleaditce@yahoo.com, subject "Dear Jolie-Miette"

Salut,

Jolie-Miette

Fabulosity 101: DYI lipgloss

lesson #2: homemade lipgloss

says: "I'm crafty...and adorable!"

You will need:
1. Petroleum jelly
2. Microwave safe container
3. Flavor of your choice
4. And a small lipgloss pot

Scoop some petroleum jelly into microwave safe container and microwave until liquid. Mix in your flavor, stir well, and pour into lipgloss pot. Refrigerate. Enjoy! ;)

　
Flavor ideas:
Hot chocolate mix
Pop rocks
(be sure to melt them first!)
Crushed candy cane
Unsweetened kool aid
(this will stain your lips a bit so no crazy colors)
Your favorite soda pop

Insider tip: Undecided on a flavor? Ask your boyfriend! Make a game out of it, let him pick or mix your favorite with his--the possibilities are endless! After all, the point of lipgloss is for someone else to take it off. ;)

Keep it Fabulous, babe!
XXOO Rosalie

questions? comments? complaints?

e-mail me @: elleaditce@yahoo.com subject: Dear Rosalie

Recycle nation

Today in our society we are having a big recycling problem. With the way we are helping the earth these days who knows how much longer before it dies. Come on we can do better than this! Recycling is easily done as said. Take that soda bottles put it with the plastics,take that pop can put it with the cans,you get money if you take your cans in so why not do that? Because then you know for sure that they recycle. Nowadays you can go outside and see plastic things everywhere. You know it will stay there for thousands of years if you do not pick it up and put it with the recyclables. There are so many simple and easy ways to recycle.
If you live in a house,you can get a compost bin and put your excess food in it,instead of just throwing it away. If you have extra boxes you are not using and are just dying to throw away flatten them and put them in your recycling bin,if you have metal put it in your recycling bin,if you have extra clothes you don't wear,donate! See these are all easy simple ways.
Some people just don't know how brittle our planet is. They don't know that it needs us to keep it surviving,so far we are doing a very poor job this planet depends on us to take care of it and now our planet is slowly dying because we are not willing to take 5 to 10 minutes out of the day to sort our garbage.

Til I écrire de nouveau,

Abrielle Etoile

Feng Shui Gem Tree Art

I was thinking about today's post and what to do. I came pretty close to ripping my hair out, when I remembered a trip with my brother and mother from a long time ago, where I saw these trees with crystals for leaves and bronze wire for trunks and branches. I remember these crafty sculptures vividly and how beautiful they were. They left such a great impression on me, that I decided to do research on them and do a post about them!

Feng shui gem trees are Japanese gem trees that are made from specific natural crystals to symbolize wealth, abundance, love and more. Supposedly, certain natural crystals carry certain energies, and when placed in the right place of the Bagua (your home/office's energy map,) you can successfully apply these energies! Sounds nifty, right?

Wrong.

.... Just kidding.

The different crystals for the gem trees have specific uses and even meanings, such as a Rose Quartz. The Rose Quartz is used for healing the heart, and teaching the heart to forgive and that love comes from within. It helps the heart heal any hits it has taken from the years, and it also embraces creativity, bringing a calm sense. It promotes compassion and, most importantly, self confidence.

Now, I'm sure most (if not all) of you are asking what a "Bagar" is. Its an energy map which calculates where your gem tree is best suited in order to apply the energies successfully. There are sites that teach you how to find the right space for your gem tree if you search on google.

Any questions or comments? Comment below or send me an email at elleaditce@yahoo.com, subject "Dear Jolie-Miette" :)

Salut,

Jolie-Miette

can't have a girly blog without a bit of romance, right? ;)

A Duchess and an American
By Rosalie　
　
"Nice picture, isn't it?" The old man uttered as he lifted his granddaughter up to see it. She reached out her tiny hand and gingerly stroked the smooth painted face, the lady's same vibrant green eyes staring lovingly back at her. "Papa," she said, her pudgy thumb in her mouth, "what was she like?" The old man's wrinkled cheeks drew up in a slight smile. "She was the most beautiful girl in the world," he said, putting her down before taking a seat on the white marble floor. "She was intelligent, full of life, a real life treasure." As he went on memories came flooding back, of her, of him, and of the life they lived. They were young and wild when they first met, on the cold sandy shore of a Parisian beach. She had lost her scarf when a sudden breeze snatched it from her throat, it was emerald green, just like her eyes. She was running after it, but ran into him instead. They tumbled to the ground, sand flying through the air like pixie dust. "Oh! Pardon, Monsieur!" She blushed, her French no less than perfect. He smiled, his one dimple showing as he got up, dusted himself and held out his hand to help her up. She quickly got to her feet and brushed off her skirt. "Merci Monsieur, but I believe I can manage." She smoothed her messy hair and turned to leave. He could hardly contain himself. He let out a chuckle. She turned, an air of offense crossing her delicate face. He held out his hand to give her the scarf she had forgotten in her haste. She Scoffed, he was dirty, rude, forward, and so...so...handsome. "Keep it!" She smiled, "Green is last season anyway." He looked down at the silky sheer fabric in his hand, it was still warm. "Au revoir!" He called as she disappeared over the dunes. Later that night there was a Masquerade being held at a local cafe. In honor of the Duchess Mignonette Viola's 17th birthday. She made her double-door entrance as the gypsy band began to play. It was late into the night when a handsome stranger in a black mask approached her, handing her a red rose he had pulled from his sleeve. She smiled and took his hand as they began to glide across the Spanish terracotta floor. He held her tight, so close she could feel the heart beating in his chest, not quite the proper thing to do, but propriety was the furthest thing from her mind. The party had ended hours ago and still they danced, all the while not saying a single word. CLANG, CLANG, CLAAANG, the clock had struck Midnight, the masked stranger released Mignonette and handed her her green scarf. "You!" She stepped back, eyes wide. "Oui, I don't believe we've been properly introduced, the name's Daniel, and you are...?" "Calling security!" She said, her tiny hands on her hips. "I just came by to give you back your scarf, didn't know it was against the law." She glared at him, how dare he joke at her expense? "You sir, are one the rudest individuals I've ever had the misfortune of meeting!" He grabbed her arm and pulled her close. "Not rude, my dear, American." She tried to pull back, but he was quite strong. "Unhand me, you brute!" She struggled, just before she could she could lift a hand to slap him he kissed her. And it was in that moment that it happened, they fell in love. "Grandma Nettie and I married a week later," The old man said, holding her green scarf in his hand. "She was my everything, my love, my best friend, my last duchess." He wrapped it about the little girl's neck and kissed her forehead.

XXOO Rosalie

Remedies For Monthly Pains

As a woman, you know these monthly routines we have with the cramps, back aches and head aches. Well, you're in luck; I am here to give a few remedies that I have tested and have come to find work. If you are new to these monthly dues or you're used to them, maybe these will still come in handy.

Something I deal with on a daily basis are back cramps, but they are especially horrid during my monthly time. One thing that I found out that works is to soak in a hot bath, but before you get in put a half cup of Epsom Salt in and let it dissolve. Also )I know it sounds like the worse thing to do when you are in pain) stretching helps a lot. I have also tried consuming more Vitamin B12 and so far it seems that my back pain has been reduced.

I know the number one thing in our monthly times is menstrual cramps. I have found, though, that those horrid beasts can be defeated! When I start to cramp, I put a pillow between my legs and for some reason it releases a bit of my cramping. I also like to take a piping hot bath when I have cramps, because it mellows down our tense muscles. I also like to massage my lower abdomen a bit to help the muscles try to relax. I do this when I can't take a bath or when I have no time to spend taking care of it.

If you come to find that you have severe headaches, try drinking herbal tea. I prefer lavender tea the best because it soothes my headache best. Rubbing your temples while lying down sometimes helps when you have a headache; it relieves the tension that you have built up. Just recently, I have come to the realization of having lavender or eucalyptus oil and rubbing it on your shoulders and whereever you are tense relieves the tension. Also, it relieves your headache from having the soothing smell. Strange, I know, but it works.

If you have any questions, feel free to comment below or send me a message at elleaditce@yahoo.com, subject "Dear Abrielle Etoile"

Til I écrire de nouveau,

Abrielle Etoile

Simplicity at Its Best - 500 Days of Summer Movie Review

Simply one of the most fantastic boy-meets-girl movies, it is simple yet complex, common yet original and unique in its own quirky plot. I enjoyed watching this immensely cute romantic comedy.

The Plot: Tom is falling in love with his card company's secretary, Summer, but she herself does not believe in love. The movie unfolds to follow the days that led up to their partial falling out.

The movie was enchanting. I know I've probably said this a couple times, but its simplicity was magnificent! It was the best part of the movie. Its the perfect story to just cuddle up with your honey and have a few good laughs while learning something pretty deep.

All in all, this movie is one of my favorites for sure! I recommend it for any couple wanting to just cuddle up on the couch and laugh :)

Any comments about this movie or post? Comment below or email them to elleaditce@yahoo.com, subject "Dear Jolie-Miette"

Salut,

Jolie-Miette

Fabulosity 101; Smokey Eyes

Fabulosity 101

Lesson #1: The “Smokey Eye”

says: “Yeah, I‘m hot…but approachable.”
Yes, ladies, the smokey eye. By far the sexiest (and the most irritating)
of makeup tricks, why you ask?

Because:

1. It’s messy
2. It can get complicated
3. And blending?…let’s not!

Although I can’t settle all your problems, I can help you with the biggest of them all--That is matching the shadow palette to compliment your eye color. Here’s a list of eye colors and the smokey shadow to match!
(Keep in mind these are only suggestions, as most smokey shadows can conceivably go whichever way you choose. It all depends on you, darling.)

• Brown eyes: blue smokey
• Hazel eyes: black smokey
• Green eyes: purple smokey
• Blue eyes: brown smokey

Insider tip: for a more dramatic (and longer lasting,) look dip your shadow brush/wand in a bit of water, this will help to keep the shadow in place--even after a rough night. ;) Now remember, kids: palest on the brow bone, darkest in the outer corner. Happy hunting!

Keep it fabulous, babe

XXOO Rosalie

Apartment Finding Tips

Okay, so you're revved and ready to move out. You have a steady job with a steady income, maybe a car with some insurance, (or, you use the bus system) and have a roommate or two set up to move out with you . . . what next?

Now, this post is not going to be like most of my apartment posts. This one is none the less important, though, as it will teach you the basics of what you need to look for when searching for an apartment. Also, I'll throw in some money-saving tips for your budget when it comes to television, decoration, etc.

First off: Rental Prices

Let's say you and your future (or current) roommates find a good-sized apartment. Its got a kitchenette, a couple bedrooms and a bathroom and a half with a nice main room. Its a good price, too, something you all can easily pitch in to pay for. If you look a little closer, though, you all find it doesn't supply internet, and it doesn't pay for cable or a laundry service. The only thing it does pay for is sewer garbage and water.

You keep looking for an apartment and find one that is just a little bit more expensive than the last, but it includes free internet, a nice laundromat within the building and pays for cable along with water, sewer and garbage. Its also a little bigger than the last. Pretty neat, right?

The main things that you want to look for in rental prices are what they include: do they pay for internet? What about cable? Does it include a laundry service, or will you have to provide that yourself? They are all important aspects to consider when searching for an apartment, and all will save you money.

Next: Location

Another important part of finding an apartment is the location; is it close to shopping, or do you have to drive 15 minutes just to find a Safeway? Is it close to your school and your work? These are all important things to consider. The proximity of your apartment will not only save you time - but save you gas money, too.

Lastly: Neighborhood

The neighborhood of your new apartment is also very important. Its important to find a place that is in a safe neighborhood. Posh may not be within your range of a budget, but that doesn't mean it needs to be low in the dumps. If you can't find the safest neighborhood, never walk alone and always have your keys in hand. Your safety should always be first and foremost, so be smart when it comes to location in order to prevent any danger from happening.

Now, for some money tips.

If you're anything like me, you don't really need T.V. Its not a big deal for you if you don't have cable (unless its Turner Classic Movies, of course. That's a must.) And, if you're anything like our generation, you're a tech geek or have grown up with electronics all around you (unless you have somehow managed to live in a cave your whole life. This is a slim possibility.) SO, why not just ditch cable? Get an Xbox (your boyfriend may already have one) and use Netflix - unlimited movies (and shows, I believe) available to you at anytime for only $10.00 a month! That saves you on paying for cable and all those useless channels with nothing to watch.

Want to decorate, but have a tight budget? Go to some garage sales with a group of friends (make sure one of you has a truck/car just in case.) Shop through thrift stores, or vintage stores. Maybe, even, make your OWN things. There are plenty of online DIYs (Do It Yourself in case you didn't know) that teach you how to make all sorts of things to decorate your plain new apartment - without paint.

If you keep these tips in mind, you'll be sure to find a happy-medium that is affordable for you.

What are your thoughts on this? Do you have anymore tips to add? Comment below or email me at elleaditce@yahoo.com, subject "Dear Jolie-Miette"

Salut,

Jolie-Miette

Just a Quick Craft Find

I was blog hopping when I found this adorable craft on Promise Tangeman Blog. It looks so easy and fun to do! Check it out (:

http://promisetangemanblog.com/personal-creations/the-easiest-diy-fabric-wall-art-ever#more-7854

Salut,

Jolie-Miette

Liver.

Most people around the world are suffering of obesity. Its very common, it is very dangerous and it is plays a big part in people dying. Obesity causes diabetes, heart attacks, strokes, etc. It also makes your liver look like you have smoked your whole life. Today, I want to talk about one thing people overlook when they are obese: the liver.

The liver gets pretty beat up when it comes to obesity. Livers are normally a darkish looking color, but when you become obese, your liver turns into a white-ish pink color. If you don't lose weight the fat that is on your liver starts to eat away at it, which then leaves little pockets or holes in your liver. After that happens, you have no hopes of fixing it.

I have a few pictures that may be unpleasant to look at but I want to show you what your liver will look like if you do not shed the pounds or become more healthy.I know losing weight is hard and quite expensive, but down the road I will show you diets that are cheap and easy. Losing weight does not have to be your enemy. It can become a big part of your life, and you can learn to love it. The first stages of losing weight may be a pain or it may hurt; but it will be the best thing that has ever happened to you - and it can save your life.

the first image is what a normal liver looks like and the second image is what fat does to the liver. You can see that there is a lot of fat that has overcome the liver. and that it has become double in size.

Til I écrire de nouveau, Abrielle Etoile.

Some Sites Worth Mentioning

I thought I'd publish a quick post about a couple of sites Rosalie, Abrielle and I all enjoy, and then one that I particularly enjoy (:

First off: http://www.vspink.com/pinknation

What to say, oh what to say! A free gift if they reach 1 million members? Right on! As long as its not any undergarment product, I'm all for it. All you have to do is sign up with vspink (email, a new password, etc.) and you're a member! We only have a few more days left, though, so hurry to sign up now!

Secondly: http://deviantart.com

A site for all sorts of artists - professional, beginner, graphics, photography, drawing, whatever it is that you like - to come together and share their love of art together. Sounds just like something I would love, right? (:

This site is great because it offers a chance for beginning artists to share their novice work with the world and get critiques from professionals (if wanted). Also, its a chance to bring about inspiration in all artists alike. Pretty neat, don't you think?

Anyway, just thought I'd share those two websites with you all. I hope you have a great day (:

Salut,

Jolie-Miette

Health Alert- OMG!

Ok, so this is nasty! MSNBC did an investigation on popular retail stores, what they found will shock and distugst you. We are posting this because we care about you all, this should be taken as a warning to take precaution when buying such things. Keep it pretty, smart, fabulous...And safe.

Much love, dalings
-Abrielle Etoile, Jolie-Miette, et Rosalie

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

WWF-A great foundation

World Wildlife Fund - also known as WWF - is a great contributer to this planet. Not only do they save animals, but they also practice and teach about conservation. If I don't know something about what's going on with our endangered animals, I look to WWF to find out. They always give me the information I need.

I recently discovered something that I thought was completely exciting! On their site, WorldWildlife.org, they have something where you can "adopt" animals. You can choose from the list of animals they have and buy a stuffed animal version of that animal! That money then goes to that animal and in return you get a stuffed animal and a certificate saying that you have just adopted that animal.

When I get the money, I want to try to adopt as many animals as I can. They can be a bit pricey but it is so worth it! I mean you can send money to the animals that are pretty much extinct to help WWF save them.

Til I écrire de nouveau,

Abrielle Etoile.

A New Art Form - Pogoism

So, recently, I was browsing the web when I found this youtube video about something called Pogoism. I proceeded to watch the video and found it magnificent! It is based in Australia, and was an ad for some Australian art school at artstartgrant.com.au. They created this new art form, "Pogoism", for the Australia Council for the Arts, in order to get grants for Art graduates. Isn't that neat? I wish they'd start something like that here. Or maybe they have and I just haven't looked hard enough.
Anyway, on with the post!

It is filmed in some sort of warehouse, where they lay all these layers down, followed by a canvas over the layers. Next, the pogo stick athletes proceed with wearing protective garments, dip their pogo sticks in the artist's desired color, and then jump around the canvas. The artist directs them where to go and what to do, and it turns out to be pretty fabulous (:

My thoughts on this? I love it! I love new forms of art to try out. I'm hoping that, someday, I'll be able to try this out. Good exercise, art, and who doesn't love pogo sticks? I can't wait!

What are your thoughts on this? Comment below or send an email to elleaditce@yahoo.com, subject "Dear Jolie-Miette"

Salut,

Jolie-Miette

Paris in the Spring

Must have accessories for Spring 2010

Spring time is here again, the flowers are blooming, the sun is shining, the birds are singing, and most important…The fashion is changing! Throw out your fuzzy uggs and make way for frilly flats! This season has brought fashion back to it’s roots in Paris, France-and we’re oh-so-totally J’adoring it!

un: The cloche Otherwise known as “flapper hats,” the cloche (French for “bell”) hat was first created by popular Parisian designer Caroline Reboux in 1908.

duex: Pearls

Ah, the timeless classic. Multiple strands with floral/lace/or jewel accents make for a dramatic and feminine feel.

trois: Grey & pastels

Lots of pastels going on this spring…particularly pinks and blues.
Throw in a light grey accent

(like a shoe or a bag) for a stylish contrast.

quatre: Rhinestone accents
Diamonds are a girl’s best friend--and another white-hot trend this Spring
(like they ever went out of style in the first place!)

cinq: Big lacey bows
Yes, my darlings, the “Blair band” is still a must-have…
And we’re loving every minute of it!

Insider tip: want the look but not the price? Check out your local thrift shops, since this year’s thing is vintage, you should be able to find something similar. No thrift shop? These looks can be found cheap @ The icing by Claires.

Until next time,
XXOO Rosalie