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Sunday, June 30, 2013

June in Review


June was the first truly hot month of the year here in New England and I absolutely loved it. The humidity was a bit of a pain, but I know that part will get so much worse throughout July and August. I'd complain, but I'm used to it by now. New England is rarely a dry place.

Anyways, June has been pretty good. The blog has been sort of quiet but I am hoping to change that for July. I'm hoping to get some more magical posts up and the like. 

My goals for the past month were...

Get back into my jewelry making swing.
Finish organizing my books.
Get my work out regime back on track.
Continue to focus on eating less sugar.

Look at that, I crossed out all four! Not that four things to accomplish is a whole lot of work, but still, I'm allowed to be proud of myself! I updated the shop with some pretty new pieces as well as a whole line of zodiac necklaces. I finally tackled the project that was organizing my books. I've also been working out everyday! The difference isn't terribly visible yet but I can tell that my legs are a tiny bit smaller and I am definitely feeling some muscle in my stomach. And to go with that I have also been a lot better about my sugar intake. I still indulged in some ice cream (it was 95F out, it's justified) but all over I have consumed less of it. I even have an awesome sugarless cookie recipe which satisfies my sweet tooth but doesn't do me in.

So, while I'm mulling over some goals for next month, what would you guys like to see in this space? I'll probably share my aforementioned cookie recipes, as well as some magic posts. But what do you like to see? I'd love to know.

Manda Rave


Friday, June 28, 2013

Blog Redesign

What? A new design? Again?
Yes!

Technically this design went live yesterday but I always feel silly posting more than once in a day, so I decided to forgo the announcement until today, on here at least. If you follow me on twitter or facebook you probably already got the memo.

I feel like I am constantly changing and I want this space to reflect that. This new design is a lot simpler and brighter -I'm really liking it. We'll see how long it lasts!

As far as the layout of my blog goes not much has changed, everything is pretty much in the same spot as it was before, so navigating shouldn't be a challenge. I really just changed the graphics and the colours. I loved my old design, but I think this is a bit easier on the eyes. I'm sure come the fall I'll want something with warmer colours and more patterns again, but until then I'll enjoy this.

To match the new design I added some new buttons to my sponsor page. So take a look (and link back to me because you love me.) 
I'm also accepting sponsors for July, I offer swap spots (free!) as well as featured ads that come with a guest post or giveaway option.


What do you guys think?

Manda Rave


Thursday, June 27, 2013

Personal Space

I am a major introvert. I enjoy spending time with friends and going out and having a good time, but I need regular space and alone time. I need the comfort of my books and my altar and the space to be inside my own head. I think it's really important to take the time to be alone and look inward, to have somewhere in your home that is just for you and that you can retreat into when you need to refresh.

Right now I am lucky enough to have a whole room just for that. We rent a three bedroom apartment -one is our room (obviously), another is kind of like a storage room that Eli likes to sleep in, and the last one is where I keep my books, my altar, my jewelry desk, and a few other bits and pieces. Today I thought I would share some pictures from my space.

Excuse the poor quality, they're phone pictures.

Some of my books.

Harry Potter & Teacups!

My snake plant (Medusa), a random pillow, and one of my hula hoops.

Where jewelry making happens. It's messy, haha.

My altar

     

To be honest that very last picture is from the bedroom, it's just a shot of some of the stuff stuck to my mirror. But I love that little spot in the bedroom so I wanted to share it anyways.

Do you have a personal space that is just for you? What's in it?

Manda Rave

P.S. Google Reader is leaving us, so make sure you're following my blog via email, feedly, or bloglovin!
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Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Sorry, no tea time today...

I know it's Tuesday and there is no tea time post to be found. I apologize. I just haven't found too much on the internet this past week to share. That on top of the fact that I forgot until about an hour ago that it was Tuesday means that I am not really motivated to put it together this week. Sorry!

Thank you to everyone who left a comment on yesterdays post. Seriously, reading each comment was like a huge virtual hug. And I needed as many hugs as I could get yesterday.

Anyways, today it is hot out. It's been hot out for the past few days actually, and I am loving it. I mean, sure, it makes working out suuuuck, but the warmth is like a security blanket for me. There is something so comforting about laying in front of a fan, reading a good book, and sipping ice cold water in shorts and a tank top. I am a summer girl through and through.

Oh yeah! I extended the sale in my shop until the 28th so if you wanted something, go grab it while it's cheap! (Not that my stuff is expensive...)


I hope everyone is having a good Tuesday!

Manda Rave

Monday, June 24, 2013

The Waves of Change

This year is filled with much more inner shifting than I thought it would be. And there is so much more to come. I feel like I am in a constant state of change. It's not a bad thing, it's just a bit scary. It makes my anxiety act up. But it's what I need to go through to give my anxiety the boot altogether. 

I am trying to keep it together. My loving boyfriend helps so much, as does the unconditional love of my kitty. Working out helps -I whip my own butt with a workout every day lately. Creating things with my hands helps. Keeping the house clean helps. 

Sometimes change is really exciting. But right now it's terrifying. I know things will be better on the other side of it though, and that is what keeps me together. I don't want it to all be scary and intimidating though. There are a lot of things that are out of my control, but this space is not one of them.

I am thinking of (another) new blog design. Something cleaner and simpler. I am thinking of redoing my sponsorship stuff again. I am thinking of asking for guest posts. I am thinking of a lot of things. We shall see what comes to fruition.

I want to say thank you to everyone who follows me here, anyone who stops by and reads my words, and a big thank you to those of you that have helped to hold me up and support me in some way. Words cannot express the love and gratefulness I feel in my heart for that support.

Things that have made me smile today:
+Winning a giveway on Emma's blog. Such a nice pick me up for my over-emotional day.
+The anti-depression balm I received the ever-wonderful Lottie. Just the smell helps lift my spirits
+The amazing support of my boyfriend as well as comforting hugs and kisses.

Today I repeat my mantra over and over to myself.
I am a child of the Universe.
And I deserve to be here and be happy just as much as anyone else.

Manda Rave


Friday, June 21, 2013

Summer Heat & Denim Shredding (Happy Solstice!)

Today is hot, a little muggy. and the sun has been going in and out behind the clouds. But despite the lack of full on sunshine, it's not raining and the heat is like a comfort blanket over everything. It's almost perfect summer solstice weather.

Today, so far, has been a day of food shopping (lots of fruit!), chatting with my boyfriend before he left for work, and pulling strings out of a pair of cut offs I made yesterday.


If you've never ripped up your own denim before, you get those ripped patches by cutting two parallel horizontal slits and then pulling out the blue threads that run vertically with a pair of tweezers. It's not too difficult but it is time consuming. That pocket is only a tiny bit of what I've done. I don't mess around when I rip up my clothes, haha. I did a number on a t-shirt that has never fit me right as well. It's now sleeveless, has a wider neck, has a sliced up back, and fringe at the bottom.

For the rest of the day I plan to workout, clean up the house a bit, and then settle down with my tarot cards, some incense, and some relaxing music. And tomorrow is out beach trip!

I hope everyone has a fantastic day!

Manda Rave

P.S. Tomorrow is the last day to get 20% off in my shop. Use code SUMMERLOVE at checkout!

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Shop Update! (Check out my new astrology line!)

I updated my SHOP today with lots of new stuff, including a whole line of zodiac necklaces!





The pendants are double sided as well, the backs have a character trait and the sign's symbol. They're aren't very pricey and each will be shipped out in it's own organza bag for safe keeping. 

I also listed this beauty:
Isn't it pretty? That is orange titanium quartz with red aventurine beads, all pretty with brass chain and a brass focal piece. I made it with the intent for them to be prayer/meditation piece but it would also just make a lovely necklace for any occasion. [Click for listing]

There is still a sale going on in my shop -20% off your order with the code SUMMERLOVE at checkout! The sale ends June 22 so if you see something you like grab it quick!

How has everyone's week been so far? It's been quite here on the blog, I have been busy creating and cleaning. I am so excited for the solstice and the full moon! Me and my boyfriend are planning a beach trip for Saturday and I'm pumped. It'll be our first beach trip of the year. What are your weekend plans?

Manda Rave





Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Picture Bits

Just some pictures from life the past few days, via my instagram.

post rain finds #mushrooms #feather

my hair has a life of its own #365 #personal #hair

Eli soaking up some sun #cat #catsofinstagram

book organizing has been going well! still got some floating books but everything is pretty much put away. Hurrah! #books

1. Some treasures found in the post-rain yard at my boyfriend's grandmothers yard. // 2. My hair today -it's crazy // 3. Eli sitting in the window and soaking up some sunshine // 4. Books and tea! I finally finished organizing my books so everything is neat and tidy

Manda Rave

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Tuesday Teatime


The past week or so has been mostly rainy but the sun has poked it's head out a few times and those are the moments that keep me going. I love sun coming through the windows during the day and brightening up the house.

Tea of the Week. Ginger. I love ginger tea, it's a favourite of mine easily. I try to keep a box of Yogi in my cabinet at all times. It's tasty and good for upset stomachs so double win.

Tumblr Finds
I love this.

This makes me smile :)

And this is just stunning.

Window Shopping
The Sioux Short Dress (hemp/organic cotton knit)
This dress looks sooo comfy.

Organic Lavender Facial Toner all skin types including oily problem 50 ml
I am intrigued by this facial toner.

Reading List
1. I loved this post on Maiedae about eating intuitively. It is so important to pay attention to what we are putting into our bodies.
2. I am really digging this simple fringe skirt tutorial over at Sincerely Kinsey. I love a good clothing diy project, and this one looks seriously awesome.
3. 20 Things You Should Never Say To a 20-Something -seriously though, just don't okay?

Quote
Inside us there is a word that we cannot pronounce and that is who we are. -Anthony Marra

Manda Rave

PS Don't forget, I'm having a 20% off sale in my SHOP -use code SUMMERLOVE at checkout!

Friday, June 14, 2013

Currently

My moods have been changing with the weather the past few weeks. Sunny days (today!) I am happy and productive, and rainy days leave me feeling slow and anxious. Don't get me wrong, I like a good day of rain, but it has been raining a lot lately.

But today is nice out and I felt the need to take pictures of myself. "Selfies" are great ego boosts don't you think? It's a way of capturing yourself through your own lens. Pictures taken by other people are nice of course, but a good self-shot is such a nice way to capture your current mood and emotion, the way your hair is or the way the sun hits you.




Lately I have been...

Watching: The Secret Circle! I just finished it (there is only one season, boo) and I am in love with it. I have a serious weakness for teen supernatural/witch shows. If you like The Vampire Diaries chances are you'll like this show.

Reading: Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare. So. Good.

Wearing: Shorts and tank tops with bathing suit tops for bras. Yep, super classy. But it's comfy so I couldn't care less.

Drinking & Eating: Sooo much water. I drink at least 6 large glasses a day, no joke. Also eating tons of bananas and avocados, as well as oatmeal, which has become a new comfort food for me.

Thinking About: Writing and characters. New characters keep coming to me and I couldn't be happier. I've also been thinking about minimizing a lot. Me and my boyfriend are going to do a house purge this weekend.

Inspired By: Witchcraft, flowers, this pinterest board, sunshine.

Doing: Watching The Secret Circle, cleaning the house, brainstorming, playing Kingdom Hearts (and freaking out over the announcement of the long awaited third game!), working out, baking.

Manda Rave

Thursday, June 13, 2013

Shop Sale!

There is a sale going on in my shop from now until June 22 in honour of the Summer Solstice (which is June 21 this year) -you can get 20% off your order with the code SUMMERLOVE at checkout. How awesome is that? I just re-listed a bunch of stuff that expired as well, so definitely go check that out.


And if you share the image above (facebook, pinterest, etc) I will love you forever and ever.
<3 p="">

Manda Rave

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

In Case You Forgot!

In case anyone forgot, google reader is shutting down (soon!) so if that's the reader you use to follow my blog you might want to add me on bloglovin.

Follow on Bloglovin

You can also use Feedly which I've heard is a great google reader alternative as well.

I hope everyone is enjoying their week! It's been pretty rainy here the past few days but I am trying to keep productive anyways.

Also enjoying some pretty and sweet smelling fresh #flowers #personal
some fresh flowers, they really brighten up our living room
Manda Rave

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Tuesday Teatime


Good news! My coughing has almost completely disappeared and my energy levels are completely normal again! Well, except for Sunday when I felt like a zombie all day, but that was due to very little sleep. This week is going to be one of putting myself on track with the things I want and need to do, as well as my workout routine and general health changes. So, with that, onward to the post!

Tea of the Week: Green tea. Yep, more green tea consumption is happening over here. It helps me feel energized and awake so I have been drinking it a lot lately.

Tumblr Finds
This is perfect. Source.

ladygagacentral:

http://bit.ly/13iJpGf
I love Lady Gaga. And this is one of the reasons why.

This is spot on.

Window Shopping
Waaaant.

ECLIPSE IIII
By one of my favourite artists and etsiers ever. Isn't this stunning?

Reading List
1. I enjoyed this thoughtcatalog piece on how to be a good person everyday.
2. Hollie shared her bedroom on her blog and I just love it. Such a great space, filled with lovely art. Take a look.
3. I really like this list of things that love does.

Quote
We waste so many days waiting for weekend. So many nights wanting morning. Our lust for future comfort is the biggest thief of life.
(I have no idea who said this, but I like it.)

Manda Rave

Saturday, June 8, 2013

My Feel Good List

My mood has been lifting lately. I'm not sick anymore (straggling cough, but that's about it) and I am feeling more energized and motivated. I'm smiling more and being more productive. Yay!

Today I though I would share a list of things that put me in a good mood and have me smiling and enjoying my day. Maybe you'll find something to put a smile on your face as well!

via pinterest.
Opening all the windows and getting as much light into the house as possible.

Cleaning & organizing so that everything looks good and I'm not tripping on things.

Going outside! And doing anything while I'm out, just as long as I'm not in the house.

Listening to my No Doubt Pandora station.

Hooping while I listen to said station. (Extra points for hooping in a bathing suit/underwear)

Not wearing shoes. Don't get me wrong, I love shoes, but I looove being barefoot.

Reading a really good book, preferably something fantasy-esque.

Banana & avocado smoothies. Talk about delicious (and healthy, hurrah!)

Working out. I always feel great after a Jillian Michaels video.


What do you guys do to put yourself in a good mood? I'm always looking to expand this list so please share!

Manda Rave

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Minimizing

Minimizing is something I've been thinking about a lot lately. I don't mean like the total minimalist lifestyle -I'm not into that. There will always be a part of me that is a collecting bohemian soul. I like to have things to look at in my personal space -tea cups, candles, bones, feathers, dreamcatchers, crystals... you get my drift.

But I like the idea of getting rid of the excess stuff. The stuff I don't use or don't have space for. Stuff I don't wear anymore are don't love as much as I used to. Now I should mention that I am not some kind of crazy hoarder. I go through everything I own at least twice a year and donate or trash whatever I don't want or don't use. This past year I did it maybe 3 or 4 times due to moving so much. Fun fact: I've lived 4 different places in the past year and a half and that's not including my dorm room.

There are a few things I am not willing to part with at all. My books are never going anywhere. I collect books. I want my own personal library someday. Obviously none of my jewelry stuff would go anywhere (I have a lot of it though) and I have already gotten rid of most of the jewelry and makeup I don't use.

I pulled clothes out to sell awhile back (I am going to set up a shop for them, I swear) and I am thinking of going through some of my art supplies, other beauty products, and magickal supplies and see what I don't need. I tend to hold onto these things but I don't want to anymore, especially magickal supplies. I have tons of candles and knickknacks -things like small bowls and figurines. But my spirituality has taken a less structured route and I think it's time to let go of some of it.

How do you minimize your life? Any suggestions on things to go through? I would love your thoughts and opinions. I would really like to have less stuff and any tips on how to do this is welcomed!

this is what the beginning of book organizing looks like when you’re me #books
I am in the process of organizing my books and this is what it looks like, haha.
Manda Rave

Wednesday, June 5, 2013

I want to see you...

source
I want to see you.

Know your voice.

Recognize you when you

first come 'round the corner.

Sense your scent when I come

into a room you've just left.

Know the lift of your heel,

the glide of your foot.

Become familiar with the way

you purse your lips

then let them part,

just the slightest bit,

when I lean in to your space

and kiss you.

I want to know the joy

of how you whisper

"more.”

Rumi

I came across this and it took my breath away. Rumi's writings always stir something deep inside of me.

Manda Rave


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