tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55965846097254928602024-03-13T07:10:21.250-05:00La Luna Vita A personal blog about books, photography and life. Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.comBlogger163125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-20347325709600908312018-02-08T22:19:00.000-05:002018-02-08T22:21:03.875-05:00Farewell<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Time to move on has come. My objectives have changed, and as I'm transitioning into a new stage in my life and I feel as if La Luna Vita no longer reflects it. It will, however, always be a part of me, which is why I firmly stand against deleting the content.<br />
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Yet again, blogging is something that I can't give up entirely. You can now find me in Instagram as <a href="https://www.instagram.com/myolivine_/" target="_blank">@myolvine_</a> or at <a href="http://myolivine.wordpress.com/">myolivine.wordpress.com</a>. Don't expect frequent blog posts or lifestyle/beauty topics. It will solely focus on books and reading. I hope you can follow along and join me in this new adventure.</div>
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It was a pleasure writing in La Luna Vita for so long, and an even greater surprise to have reached around 18,400 pageviews in all history.</div>
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Thank you. </div>
Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-82093550996657842262018-01-28T10:30:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:24.461-05:00Favorites Lately<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ziX7nfp2DKk/Wmz9NVwdJcI/AAAAAAAACno/BRFVfOfkQdMo4Tc0mfuoBDYgElQ9gjlDACLcBGAs/s1600/C9984786-C173-4E6A-8048-40F44F0C1889.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img alt="La luna Vita Beauty Lifestyle Blog" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ziX7nfp2DKk/Wmz9NVwdJcI/AAAAAAAACno/BRFVfOfkQdMo4Tc0mfuoBDYgElQ9gjlDACLcBGAs/s1600/C9984786-C173-4E6A-8048-40F44F0C1889.JPG" title="" /></a></div><br />Hi there! I feel like I haven't done one of these posts in forever, specially since I've been concentrating so much on books lately. As I have mentioned in previous posts, I don't do monthly favorites because 1) I don't buy that much stuff in one month, and 2) I tend to repurchase the same types of products, so there's rarely any novelty. Anyway, here's a little bit more about them:<br /><br /><ul><li>Purse by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/carterastizza/" target="_blank">Tizza</a>: This was actually a Christmas present and I've used it a couple of times. To be honest, I have a thing for brown purses, and although this one is more of a tennis-court-clay color, I loved it as soon as I saw it. It's small but has enough room to carry the essentials: wallet, phone and a small vanity kit. Inside it has three compartments, so it makes it easier to organize things.</li></ul><ul><li><a href="https://www.ogxbeauty.com/" target="_blank">OGX</a> Argan Oil Shampoo + Keratin Conditioner: If you've been following my blog for a while, you may have noticed that I'm on some type of eternal quest, searching for the perfect shampoo and conditioner suitable for color-treated curls. And you would also know that in fact, this isn't the first time I write about OGX products. The reason I decided to go back to these was because I noticed my curls were deforming and I needed something ultra hydrating. Then I remembered my long forgotten relationship with OGX and decided to give it another try. And so far I have zero regrets -- my curls feel softer and are starting to get back to normal. </li></ul><ul><li>Oat Milk Moisturizing Milk by <a href="http://www.institutoespanol.com/en/producto/body-care/moisturizers/moisturizing-milk-avena/" target="_blank">Instituto Español</a>: I was in the need of a new body moisturizer because the one I was using had ran out. Looking for alternatives, I came across this Spanish brand that I remember my grandmother would use. Oh my lanta (been watching Fuller House lately) -- this product is amazing and it's not pricey at all! It dries up quickly and smoother skin is palpable in an instant. </li></ul><ul><li>Eye Pillow by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ananda.accesoriosdeyoga/" target="_blank">Ananda Accessories</a>: It's a local brand that makes yoga accessories. I decided it was time to gear up my yoga practice and I've bought plenty of things by this brand. The eye pillow was actually a gift from a co-worker, we were all playing Secret Santa. It smells amazing which helps me relax in savasana. Not to mention, the pretty design. </li></ul><div><br /></div><div>That'd be all for now!</div><br />Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-38310383259666757922018-01-17T08:30:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:24.742-05:00‘Not Following Back’ Symptom | Opinion Post <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m9f98tOE7rE/Wlu6Cm3XFYI/AAAAAAAACmw/PX89CM7fOy8LbVEiplpCeTRxNXw5z3kxACLcBGAs/s1600/E4B8D0A4-1D47-49A9-9BBD-066540C99BDD.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m9f98tOE7rE/Wlu6Cm3XFYI/AAAAAAAACmw/PX89CM7fOy8LbVEiplpCeTRxNXw5z3kxACLcBGAs/s1600/E4B8D0A4-1D47-49A9-9BBD-066540C99BDD.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image: Pixabay</td></tr></tbody></table><br />We live in an era where technology has become part of our daily lives. If you don’t have a profile on a social media, you might as well be a Jane Doe or not exist at all. Nowadays, people not only have to worry about how they dress and speak but also how they use their online profiles and what they share in them. As an amateur blogger, I tend to use social media to promote my content, being <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lalunavitablog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/MakarenaOliv" target="_blank">Twitter</a> the networks I use most.<br /><br />One of the best ways for your posts to reach more viewers is by obviously gaining more followers — aside from using the correct hashtags. But how are small bloggers supposed to grow when the community is so greedy about their ‘following’ count? What’s worse is that this doesn’t only happen in the blogging community, it happens everywhere.<br /><br />Just the other day, I’ve experienced this for the fourth time or so. After adding someone on Facebook as ‘friends’ — rather colleagues or people I’ve somehow met in real life — notifications start to appear on Instagram. At least once a day when I get on Instagram, I see sections that persuade me to follow Facebook friends or people who I have contacts in common. So I did just that. I clicked the blue button, expecting to get a notification shortly afterward saying “that person is now following you”.<br /><br />But that notification never came. Not this time, nor the last time I followed another person I'd met. Not even after liking their posts or having viewed their stories. And must I emphasize, these people are not bloggers or influencers. <br /><br />You might be thinking “<i>girl...these people don’t like you, get new friends.</i>” But when I see them again in person, they’re as friendly as ever. Ok, so there’s the theory that I’ve unfortunately encountered hypocrites or the other theory — people value their following number too much. Everyone wants to seem popular online, for their followers to be larger than the number of accounts they’re following. This happens on networks where the contacts lists are divided into two. Whereas in Facebook no one really cares, they just accept the request without much thought. <br /><br />Is not following back a symptom or the syndrome? I personally think it’s a symptom, a manifestation of this Millennial and Gen Z generation. The pressure of what others think has always been present in human interactions (just take a look at a few Jane Austen novels). But times have changed, and what we portray online — whether real or not — has become more important than who we actually are. <br /><br />Imagine a day of a massive blackout, kind of like the sci-fi film “<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2304933/" target="_blank">The Fifth Wave</a>” featuring Chloë Moretz. If technology was somehow taken away from us, would it have been really worth it? Counting followers on daily basis and curating your feed in such a strict way that prevented you from posting a picture you liked just because it “didn’t match”?<br /><br />Evidently, I don’t bear the answers. The psychologist in me wishes to do some research and inquire these people about why they didn’t follow me back. But for the meantime, I’ll remain seated and continue observing.<br /><br />‘Til next time!Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-1617157731887450852018-01-11T19:37:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:24.957-05:00Book Review: Murder On The Orient Express<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wdgxYRdo5nI/WlgCo0l2nOI/AAAAAAAACmg/QOmFhum2wPIrRSBgBRiBXwehwiswRWGwQCLcBGAs/s1600/3687D6BE-7DFB-454B-96BA-4B4A9A6BF7DA.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="la luna vita bookstagram agatha christie review" border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wdgxYRdo5nI/WlgCo0l2nOI/AAAAAAAACmg/QOmFhum2wPIrRSBgBRiBXwehwiswRWGwQCLcBGAs/s1600/3687D6BE-7DFB-454B-96BA-4B4A9A6BF7DA.JPG" title="" /></a></div><br />Hi there! I got this book for Christmas. I haven’t seen any of the film adaptations yet (not even the ones from the 70s) because I wanted to read it first. Honestly, I would’ve prefered the regular cover featuring the train, but given that the film came out recently, it was the only one available at local bookstores. <br /><br />Anyway, this is the first Agatha Christie novel that I read. I had always heard about her, but for some reason I was never into reading crime or mystery. Until I realized that if I enjoy crime related TV shows and movies, I might as well give the books a try too. “Murder On The Orient Express” is part of a series starring detective Hercule Poirot. The novels don’t have a sequence, so you can start reading any of them at any given time. I chose to begin with the most ‘famous’ one -- Murder On The Orient Express. <br /><br />It was a quick read, I would have finished it sooner but I went away on a small road trip to the beach for New Year’s and then I returned back to work. At the beginning I was a bit confused, I hadn’t done any previous research (mostly because I was afraid of encountering spoilers) so I didn’t grasp that Poirot was the main character until the end of the first chapter. <br /><br />I loved the way Christie broke the novel into three great sections (“The Facts”, “The Declarations”, and “Hercule Poirot rests and reflects”). There was even a small blueprint of the train wagon to help the reader get the picture. I did find, however, the recurrent use of clichés, such as ‘the extroverted Americans’ and ‘the reserved Englishmen’. I’m not sure if those were stereotypes the author believed in or whether she simply wanted the characters to have those perspectives on purpose. Aside from that, I enjoyed reading the novel. The language was simple, with occasional French frases which I had to look up. Most of it was dialogue. And even though it’s written in third person, the information given is mostly based on what Poirot knows and speculates. <br /><br />Christie has a way for unexpected finales. Poirot had an optimistic attitude throughout the entire book, he was certain he’d solve the case even though everything indicated otherwise. Indeed, he unravels it all and you won’t be able to guess who the murderer really is until the very end. However, I would have liked the story to develop a bit further. I feel like it ended a too abruptly, but that’s just my opinion. <br /><br />Overall rating: 3.5/5. Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-27960189177109709572018-01-02T11:00:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:25.175-05:00Why I stopped using a bullet journal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3PjabRiasGQ/WkW-5H1p7UI/AAAAAAAACmI/r381T8Jo3sUnmIEpbZ-sg_8Lk_hPbLfPACLcBGAs/s1600/AE3989AF-6FA5-4150-B926-DCFCA825ED92.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="la luna vita 2018 bullet journal agenda" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3PjabRiasGQ/WkW-5H1p7UI/AAAAAAAACmI/r381T8Jo3sUnmIEpbZ-sg_8Lk_hPbLfPACLcBGAs/s1600/AE3989AF-6FA5-4150-B926-DCFCA825ED92.JPG" title="" /></a></div><br />For 2018, I decided to go back to a regular agenda, the one you can buy at any store with standard one page per day. Last year, I even did <a href="http://www.lalunavita.com/2017/01/my-bullet-journal-sort-of.html" target="_blank">a post on setting up a bullet journal</a>. Truth be told, I only used it until April or May approximately. In general, I'm not much of an agenda person. Before when I was still in college, my life <i>did</i> depend on a planner, I used to write down due dates and assignments. But I've been done with college for over a year and in my job I generally put my to-do list on a bulletin board. So as you may notice, I'm not really in the need of a planner. However, I decided to purchase one this year just to help me keep track of medical stuff and personal to-do list.<br /><br />Here are the main reasons why I decided to give up on bullet journaling:<br /><br /><ul><li><b>Time consuming: </b>A bullet journal is something you create from scratch. From the index to the monthly and daily logs. It requieres for you to draw it all. Don't get me wrong, I like drawing. But since I'm also a bit of a neat freak, I like to do things with precision. And that takes time, you need a ruler, different colored pens or markers. You can do all of this in advance and leave your bullet journal ready to go, or you can do it month by month. Either way, you'll need some spare time to sit down on a desk and structure it all. </li></ul><ul><li><b>I have nothing to write down: </b>I see pictures of pretty bullet journals on Pinterest and Tumblr, pages filled with handwritten notes about the things that must be done in the day. I'm sorry, but I don't see the point in writing everything you're going to do. Like "do laundry", how can you even forget? In my case, I designate certain activities to certain dates of the week. Like watering my plants, I know I must do it every Sunday. So do I really need to write it down? You see, I only write down the type of stuff that I know I'll most likely forget. Which is why I was left with so much blank space. </li></ul><ul><li><b>I already have other types of journals: </b>I'm a bit of a stationary hoarder and I love carrying around with me a little "notebook of ideas" as I like to call it. Any interesting quote, idea or shopping list, that's where I'll write it down. I also have my personal journal, which you could call like a type of diary, where I keep poetry and whatever ramblings are on my mind. Then there's my lunar journal, which I've recently started using for keeping track of lunar phase dates and setting my intentions. Lastly, I have a small notebook for fiction and creative writing, where I jot down ideas for characters and plot lines (hopefully I'll write a novel someday). </li></ul><div><br /></div><div>I'll see how this new year goes with my regular store bought planner. Have you tried bullet journaling before? If so, I'd love to hear about your experiences in the comments!</div>Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-65215244890218515202017-12-26T15:07:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:25.391-05:00Reread: Just Listen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iHalD5XFKGk/WkKqMSG0L8I/AAAAAAAACl4/vortmfDbMQQunQnW8cRM52j6YagL-BFWwCLcBGAs/s1600/6E092949-B65C-4CE4-A52F-007DDFFA73BB.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="la luna vita blog sarah dessen review" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iHalD5XFKGk/WkKqMSG0L8I/AAAAAAAACl4/vortmfDbMQQunQnW8cRM52j6YagL-BFWwCLcBGAs/s1600/6E092949-B65C-4CE4-A52F-007DDFFA73BB.JPG" title="" /></a></div><br />The first time I read "Just Listen", was <a href="http://www.lalunavita.com/2013/10/just-listen.html" target="_blank">back in 2013</a>, in kindle format. As an avid reader, I must confess that digital books are --while useful-- just not the same. The feelings that paper transmits, turning page by page and being able to smell the newness or mustiness, it's incomparable to anything else.<br /><br />I read this book in three days, I would have finished it in less but I decided to spend my time doing other activities as well, given that it was Christmas. "Just Listen" is centered on Annabel Greene, a Lakeview model and high school junior who apparently has it all. Except that she doesn't. Before the end of the previous school year, she fought with her best friend Sophie --the most popular girl at school-- who thought Annabel had hooked up with her boyfriend, Will Cash. Annabel decides to isolate herself from any social interaction through out the summer, dreading the beginning of the new school year.<br /><br />Alone and withholding so many secrets, she becomes friends with the school outcast, Owen Armstrong, best known for his aggressive tendencies, such as punching people in the face. She begins to learn things about him, like how music is his number one obsession, how he has attended Anger Management classes and has a twelve year old sister who loves fashion and looks up to none other than Annabel Greene. Owen is the complete opposite of Annabel --he never holds back and is always being plain honest. But this is almost impossible for her to achieve, or so she thinks until she realizes that the only way out is by confronting the truth.<br /><br /><i>*SPOILER ALERT*</i><br /><br />Sarah Dessen is my favorite YA author because of the way she conveys delicate topics and makes the reader empathize so much with the protagonist. In this case, Annabel was a victim of sexual assault, and as most victims, she didn't speak up right away. She was scared, angry and ashamed of what had happened to her. She thought that by keeping quiet, it would all go away. However, as time passed, it only got worse.<br /><br />This novel addresses the importance of communicating effectively, of speaking up when you need to. That's it's okay to reach out for help and allow yourself to be vulnerable, that there will always be someone there to hold out a hand for you, even if it's the person you least expected to do so.<br /><br />Next year I plan on rereading "The Truth About Forever" and "Along for the Ride". I'm also thinking about purchasing more Sarah Dessen novels that I haven't read before, like "Saint Anything" and "Lock and Key". But first, I have to finish the other stack of books waiting to be opened.<br /><br />That would be all for now. Happy holidays!Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-20416636710616279192017-12-20T16:35:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:25.609-05:002017 (Book) Recap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NncdOk25BrA/WaS_ulqWKVI/AAAAAAAACRg/XXF2WZvPO0E1LxEjcjoGADaq2P2fL4ZcgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="La Luna Vita Book Blog" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NncdOk25BrA/WaS_ulqWKVI/AAAAAAAACRg/XXF2WZvPO0E1LxEjcjoGADaq2P2fL4ZcgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0313.JPG" title="" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hello earthlings! 2017 almost over. I feel as if this year passed in a blink of an eye. It has been a good year with ups and downs, since no year can be ever so perfect. Similarly to <a href="https://www.buzzfeed.com/lyapalater/kylie-jenners-resolution-for-2016-is-literally-to-realize-st?utm_term=.abX8JVy71P#.lndAk94xrK" target="_blank">Kylie Jenner</a> back in '16, this year has been eye opening for me. I've learned a lot about myself and others -- or in Kylie's words <i>"I realized stuff"</i>.<br /><br />I am looking forward to the fresh new start that a new year always transmits, because sometimes you simply need a little push to get the motivation flowing. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Anyway, here is a summary of all the books I read this year:<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ol><li><b>Persuasion</b> by Jane Austen</li><li><b>The Lake House</b> by Kate Morton</li><li><b>Wuthering Heights</b> by Emily Brontë </li><li><b>Dreamland</b> by Sarah Dessen <i>(reread)</i></li><li><b>Northanger Abbey</b> by Jane Austen</li><li><b>Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone</b> by J.K. Rowling</li><li><b>Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets</b> by J.K. Rowling</li><li><b>Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban </b>by J.K. Rowling</li><li><b>Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire</b> by J.K. Rowling </li><li><b>Only Love is Real </b>by Brian L. Weiss </li><li><b>Twilight </b>by Stephenie Meyer <i>(reread)</i></li><li><b>Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix</b> by J.K. Rowling <i></i></li><li><b>Just Listen</b> by Sarah Dessen <i>(reread)</i></li></ol><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />2017 has been the year I officially became a bookworm. Before I would always enjoy reading, but I'd lack consistency. As for 2018, I intend to finish the Harry Potter series and follow it with Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë. However, I haven't made my mind as to the rest of the list. I'd love to hear recommendations from you guys in the comments below.<br /><br />'Til next time! </div>Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-56981062931073963512017-12-10T13:29:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:25.779-05:00'F' stands for Feminism<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WHZ4TvgYdEM/Wi177LaT69I/AAAAAAAACk8/cYjBvA23RNMMFhuoWgmbQcVHebMJFpQGwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="la luna vita blog" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WHZ4TvgYdEM/Wi177LaT69I/AAAAAAAACk8/cYjBvA23RNMMFhuoWgmbQcVHebMJFpQGwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1645.jpg" title="" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />Feminism is a word that has gained popularity over the last couple of years. <a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/feminism?utm_campaign=sd&utm_medium=serp&utm_source=jsonld" target="_blank">Merriam-Webster</a> dictionary defines it as:<br /><br /><ul><li>“the theory of the political, economic, and social equality of the sexes” </li><li>“organized activity on behalf of women's rights and interests”</li></ul><br />For centuries it was believed that women were the ‘weaker’ sex. Everyone remembers <a href="http://www.icr.org/article/darwins-teaching-womens-inferiority/" target="_blank">Charles Darwin</a> for the evolution theory, but how many recall him stating that “males [were] more evolutionarily advanced than females”? And if we go way back to the <a href="http://www.latocultuurcentrum.com/lato-s-blog/women-and-their-role-in-ancient-greece" target="_blank">ancient Greeks</a>, Athenian women were considered to be lower than slaves in the social scale. They were not allowed to attend festivities, go to theatre or act in plays. <br /><br />Fast forward several centuries and many rallies later, and women are able to <a href="https://herstoria.com/womens-access-to-higher-education-an-overview-1860-1948/" target="_blank">access higher education</a> and vote. But have we reached equality? Women in CEO positions only make up <a href="http://fortune.com/2016/06/06/women-ceos-fortune-500-2016/" target="_blank">4.2% of America’s top 500 companies</a>, that equals roughly to 21 companies. If we look at the scientific fields, “<a href="http://www.catalyst.org/knowledge/women-science-technology-engineering-and-mathematics-stem" target="_blank">less than a third</a> of those employed in scientific research and development across the world [are women]”. <br /><br /><a href="http://time.com/time-person-of-the-year-2017-silence-breakers/?xid=homepage" target="_blank">Time’s</a> latest issue reflects how far feminism has come, even though there's plenty more to work on. They named People Of the Year celebrities and non-celebrities that came forward about sexual harassment. Before, these actions would go unpunished or were even considered normal. The perpetrators see women (or other men) as mere objects which they can control. Women (and some men) are starting to speak out about these issues because they no longer feel powerless, their voices are starting to make a difference. <br /><br />In my country, the <a href="https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2017/11/miss-peru-my-measurements-are-protest-femicide-2017" target="_blank">rates of femicide</a> are alarmingly high. The hashtag used to raise awareness was #NotOneLess, making a reference to “not one woman less, not one more death”. It is sad, getting up in the morning and having breakfast to such horrible news on TV. Reports about women getting beaten up or killed by their spouses, boyfriends or ex-partners. Women here are staring to speak up too, local actresses and news reporters, no longer afraid of sharing their story. <br /><br />All over the world, women and minorities are still facing injustice. Being the only woman in the top executive workforce or in a science faculty is something that can be dealt with. But on top of that, add the harassment and murder? Now, I’m not saying that only men have aggressive tendencies, unfortunately some women do too. <br /><br />Not to mention the stigma of surrounding the concept of feminist. There’s a dichotomy because some women are simply searching for equality while others go overboard. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radical_feminism" target="_blank">Radical feminism</a> seeks to abolish any male presence in the system, but that’s absurd (in my opinion). That would just be acting the same way as men did years ago. Why take the same actions them? Shouldn’t we be setting an example for the greater good? <br /><br />Truthfully, it is indignant to see the amount of hostility humans carry around and spread. Why allow the 'dark side' to take over? It is up to us as a society to not only teach kids respect towards any gender, race or social status --but also practice it ourselves. <b>We should seek an equality beyond labels.</b>Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-28582651536704667042017-12-06T22:11:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:26.056-05:00An entrance<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-voYByE5Xa-A/WiitF7uvtmI/AAAAAAAACi8/RcJhIIzFglI9JrJDI2q1XBVDDbFnNLWfgCKgBGAs/s1600/4989EBE3-A45C-4137-941C-7115B9B94B9E.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="la luna vita photography blog" border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-voYByE5Xa-A/WiitF7uvtmI/AAAAAAAACi8/RcJhIIzFglI9JrJDI2q1XBVDDbFnNLWfgCKgBGAs/s1600/4989EBE3-A45C-4137-941C-7115B9B94B9E.JPG" title="" /></a></div><br />Hello there. Long time no type --at least not here in <b>La Luna Vita</b>. As I'm writing this I don't know if I should just laugh at myself or seek help; I'm <i>the most </i>indecisive person I know. And no, it's not something I take pride in. It's rather an inherent characteristic. I was seriously considering creating a new blog, starting from zero, just to end up posting the same type of content all over again *sigh*. For some reason, whether it's emotional attachment or plain commitment, I can't seem to let go of La Luna Vita. When I started the new blog (I even published two posts), I felt refreshed and excited for a new start. Yet again, I kept coming back here, rereading these posts and eventually imported them on the 'new' blog. But what was the point of having a 'new' blog if the content was going to be along the same lines?<br /><br />However, that doesn't mean that were won't be any changes. For 2018, I plan to take more pictures. I am looking forward to improving my photography skills, so I'll most likely take up some sort of challenge which I'll be sharing through here. Not to mention, I'd like to incorporate more creative writing. But we'll see how that goes.<br /><br />I'm not sure if I'm the only blogger who has been through this whole <i>what-am-I-doing-with-my-blog</i> crisis. If so, I'd love to hear your stories in the comments below.<br /><br />Thanks for stopping by!Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-27334627980952483822017-11-01T15:35:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:26.271-05:00Book review: Quiet<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NVMKuN5TCvk/WfouuIRF6EI/AAAAAAAACdw/7aKqeEk6ZzA25rMG35rkpnS_MqkIFpeNQCLcBGAs/s1600/D1799315-BBB2-49C6-8B88-B55D55921E85.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img alt="la luna vita book blog infj" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NVMKuN5TCvk/WfouuIRF6EI/AAAAAAAACdw/7aKqeEk6ZzA25rMG35rkpnS_MqkIFpeNQCLcBGAs/s1600/D1799315-BBB2-49C6-8B88-B55D55921E85.JPG" title="" /></a></div><br />I can't believe it's taken me so long to finish "<i><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8520610-quiet" target="_blank">Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking</a></i>". As I mentioned this before, I can devour a novel in a few days but reading anything other than fiction tends to bore me --even if it's a topic I consider important.<br /><br />This book was everything I expected and much more. Susan Cain, being an introvert herself, accurately describes all the struggles that most introverts face at some point in their lives. I praise how she took her time to travel, interview both introverts and extroverts, authors, teachers and scientists, and how she neatly laid it out for everyone to understand. Sure, from time to time, she shares her own experience. But this book is based on research and assertively argues that there is nothing wrong about being an introvert and that --just like anything else in life-- having a certain personality type it's downsides and upsides. <br /><br />Here are some of the topics I found most interesting:<br /><br /><ul><li>The extrovert ideal: In the early twentieth century, America switched from the Culture of Character to the Culture of Personality. "<i>In the Culture of Character, the ideal self was serious, disciplined and honorable.</i>" Impressions didn't matter, actions did. But in the Culture of Personality, the opinions of others became more important, people had to be "<i>bold and entertaining</i>". It has persisted ever since, only causing more cases of anxiety because the pressure of reaching the extrovert ideal can be mentally exhausting. </li><li>Introverts can be good leaders, and work better with an extrovert team. The same happens with extrovert leaders that achieve better results with an introvert team. Both styles complement each other. Not to mention, there has been famous introverts who became leaders or caused a huge impact in history, such as: Rosa Parks, Mahatma Gandhi, Charles Darwin, Eleanor Roosevelt, among others.</li><li>Cain also discusses highly sensitive people. When I got to this chapter, I was about to skim it through, since I thought it wouldn't apply to me. Turns out, thanks to this book, I realized that I'm a highly sensitive person. Not something I'm proud of (I wish I could I drink normal coffee and not have my heart rate rise like crazy) but many things have started to make more sense now that I know more about this condition. </li><li>Opposites attract is not a myth. My boyfriend is an extrovert, an ESTP to be precise, just the complete opposite of me an INFJ. The author mentions how couples need to learn from each other, accept their differences and look for a middle ground. I felt identified and definitely learned from the other couples she interviewed.</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>Whether you're an introvert feeling a bit out of place, or an extrovert who is simply curious about the subject: read this book. You won't regret it. It's very eye-opening and will bring you to an epiphany so you can live your best quiet life. </div><div><br /></div><blockquote class="tr_bq"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>"Spend your free time the way you like, not the way you're supposed to." </b></span></blockquote>Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-9116720591436239382017-10-01T14:59:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:26.485-05:00Review: Only Love Is Real<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XuRV-t7I1Dk/WdFHpp_Q3ZI/AAAAAAAACcI/H8AQjKe1lGkoFBYQlWUdM51lgw5Z3Q0XQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0625.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1275" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XuRV-t7I1Dk/WdFHpp_Q3ZI/AAAAAAAACcI/H8AQjKe1lGkoFBYQlWUdM51lgw5Z3Q0XQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0625.JPG" /></a></div><br />Today I’ll be sharing my thoughts on “Only love is real” by Brian L. Weiss. This is not the type of book I’d purchase, it was actually a gift. I tend to read mostly novels, though I’m trying to change that. Other types of books, such as memoirs, usually bore me (I confess I never finished Eat Pray Love). But since this one was a short read, I decided to give it a try. And I’m glad I did. <br /><br /><i>Before going more in-depth, the book covers spiritual topics such as reincarnation. So if you are strongly against it, feel free to skip this post. Everyone is entitled to their own beliefs, but there is no need to generate a fuss. </i><br /><br />First off, a little background on the author. Brian L. Weiss is an american psychiatrist and hypnotherapist that has made many appearances on TV, including The Oprah Winfrey Show. I kept my mind open while reading this book. I had previously heard about sessions were the person being hypnotized shared some details of their previous life -- such as name, year, geographic location-- and afterwards they’d look up the information to find it did match old records.<br /><a name='more'></a><br />The plot focuses on how two of Weiss’ patients were soulmates. They had shared more than one life in the past, but due to awful circumstances (such as wars and diseases) they had been separated every time. In today’s date (or life), these two people did not know each other, they would go to their appointments on different days. Hence, Weiss was stuck in a complicated situation. As a psychiatrist, the ethical code states that he cannot interfere in the patients’ lives and introducing them would be --more or less-- an interference. In the end, thanks to external events (or destiny) they end up meeting in a flight. And as expected, they have instant chemistry.<br /><br />But the message the author tries to get across is not really how these two lucky soulmates encounter, it goes beyond that. We as humans by default have a soul. I found it interesting that according to this author and the research he’s done, most souls occupy the body in the moment of birth, not before. A soulmate does not necessarily imply a romantic relationship, but rather a strong spiritual connection. Someone’s soulmate could be their mother, who perhaps in a previous life was their daughter (which was the case with Joan Rivers when he visited her on her show). <br /><br />Some people carry their frustrations from previous lives to the present day, such as phobias or unexplained physical pain. We all come to this life for a purpose and exit the body learning a lesson. Some lives are smoother while others are on a rougher path. Our bodies are like cars but our souls are the driver. The cars can change brand, model and size, but the driver will always remain the same. <br /><br />All in all, I give this book a 4/5. I know I tend to be a bit generous with the ratings, but I found this book very eye-opening. The only thing I would have liked is to find more information on other patients and learn who the 'masters' were. But I guess he explains that in the rest of his books. If you're looking for a spiritual read, then this book is for you.<br /><br />´Til next time! Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-49570871162048847422017-09-24T10:53:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:26.695-05:00Reread: Twilight<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rz--dS9nmDQ/Wi1rLDhnmSI/AAAAAAAACkc/vKSe8ksmsWgOyxHmefDr4EMMGZtE-dUkwCLcBGAs/s1600/F0ACA13D-848F-4D24-96CE-0130939AD505.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img alt="la luna vita blog" border="0" data-original-height="1270" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rz--dS9nmDQ/Wi1rLDhnmSI/AAAAAAAACkc/vKSe8ksmsWgOyxHmefDr4EMMGZtE-dUkwCLcBGAs/s1600/F0ACA13D-848F-4D24-96CE-0130939AD505.JPG" title="" /></a></div><br />I cannot emphasize enough how rereading Twilight automatically took me back to 8th grade, making me feel like a teenager again. Now after being done with it, I'm seriously considering rereading the rest of the books. But for the time being, the only saga I'll be focusing on is Harry Potter.<br /><br />It's not the same reading a romance/fantasy novel when you're fifteen than when you're twenty-four. There are plenty of stuff from the ‘adult’ world that one ignores while being younger, falling easily in love with the characters. Around the time the Twilight film was released, there were a bunch of graphics circling the internet, stating that Edward Cullen had raised the standards for future boyfriends. Well, this book simply raises the standards for any relationship. <br /><br />It's not like I don't believe in romance. I've actually been in a relationship for the past three years, so perhaps there are a few things that I've learned along the way. Firstly, it doesn't matter how much someone attracts you, in real life no one will take such intrepid risks after knowing you for such a brief period of time. Bella and Edward literally had only two dates to get to know each other, plus a few days sharing a table at lunch. The love represented in the novel is highly unrealistic and kind of toxic if you reflect upon it.<br /><br />Not to mention the way time lapses in the novel. At first, time progresses at an average speed. But after the Saturday that Bella and Edward spend together in the forest, everything happens too fast. She meets his family momentarily and then has to run away and save her life. I feel like Meyer could have filled us in better on the Cullen's before the two protagonists declared their love to one another. I know that either way we get to know the characters better in the rest of the books, but in my opinion there's a gap that could've been filled before Bella flies to Phoenix. <br /><br />Nevertheless, it was entertaining to grasp the small details I had forgotten and that were overlooked in the film.Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-11376796365905529742017-09-10T12:41:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:26.916-05:00Harry Potter: Book 2 - 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KhSLU8dTuOw/WbV417lC1wI/AAAAAAAACTQ/wFdsdGb7kScpbphcJbXkEmRlmyGk2_0owCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0449.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Harry Potter Books La Luna Vita Blog" border="0" data-original-height="1272" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KhSLU8dTuOw/WbV417lC1wI/AAAAAAAACTQ/wFdsdGb7kScpbphcJbXkEmRlmyGk2_0owCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_0449.JPG" title="" /></a></div><br />Bonjour!<br /><br />Given that I've read the first four Harry Potter books in a row, I'd thought it would be better if I wrote a collective post, rather than one per book. It's actually a bit hard to write a review because J.K. Rowling is a fantastic author. While reading, you automatically get transferred to Hogwarts and the magical world. Not to mention, you get to know the deeper layers of the characters.<br /><br />If you've seen the movies (which most likely you already have) I recommend reading the books. You don't even have to read them all or start with the first one. Just jump straight to your favorite one. The books are written is such manner that you will understand them without impediment. Not to mention, the author always does a small recap at the beginning and sometimes makes references to previous events throughout the novel.<br /><br /><b>Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets:</b><br /><br />Harry Potter's second year at Hogwarts starts to get more interesting. While still in the Dursleys house, he gets visited by Dobby, a house-elf who definitely knows more than what he lets on. His warnings are premonitory about the dark year that lays ahead. Thankfully, Harry is rescued by Ron and his twin brothers, they used Mr. Weasly's magic car. Once he returns to the Wizarding world, Harry, Ron and Hermione meet their new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Gildory Lockhart, who is nothing but a narcissist and has never fought against anything remotely dark.<br /><br />Things start to get strange in Hogwarts when Mrs. Norris, the caretaker's cat, appears petrified in the middle of a hallway. Naturally, Harry and company were there at the wrong time and the wrong place. Later, when the Gryffindor students participate in a duel with the Slytherins (which is supervised by Professor Snape and Lockhart), Harry faces a snake that appeared thanks to one of Draco's spells. Harry automatically speaks to the snake without noticing anything odd. The problem is that he's actually speaking parseltongue, a language only Dark Wizards can understand. Therefore, the entire school starts to think he's behind the attacks.<br /><br /><b>Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban:</b><br /><br />The third year begins with the news of a convicted murder being out on the loose, warning both muggles and wizards. The Durselys, as usual, are inhumanly cruel to Harry. They get visited by Aunt Marge, who surprisingly enough is far worse than Aunt Petunia and Uncle Vernon. After constantly insulting Harry, he involuntarily blows her up and runs away with this Hogwarts stuff and with Hedwig. While alone in the empty muggle streets, Harry feels as if he's being watched when suddenly the Knight Bus appears and takes him back to the wizarding world.<br /><br />He later finds that the escaped prisoner is Sirius Black and learns what he has been punished for. On the train back to Hogwarts, Harry faints due to the presence of the dementors -- creatures who feed on human happiness. This year with the help of the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Lupin, Harry will learn how to face these terrible creatures without passing out. He will also meet Sirius Black, who didn't want to harm him after all.<br /><br /><b>Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire:</b><br /><br />Oh the terrible things that lay ahead of the fourth year. This is when the story starts to get creepy. Though not at the beginning, while still in Pivet Drive, he gets visited by the Weasleys. The Dursleys were expecting them to knock on the door. But since they're not muggles, they decided to use the Foo Powder and appear in the Dursleys fireplace --which was a hilarious scene by the way. They picked Harry up in order to attend the Quidditch World Cup. Things start to get weird when the game ends, Voldemort followers cause a riot and the Dark Mark appears. Once again, Harry and company are spotted at the wrong place and wrong time.<br /><br />When the new school year begins, they learn that it will be unlike the rest given that the Triwizard Tournament will be hosted in Hogwarts. Wizards from other countries are expected to arrive, and one candidate per school can participate. To everyone's surprise, Harry's name pops out of the Goblet during the announcement of champions, making him the fourth. His friendship with Ron stumbles and the entire school is against Harry participating. He confines his troubles to the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Mad Eye Moody. Only at the end will Harry comprehend that the malevolent Lord Voldemort was behind his participation and that he has returned to finish what he started.Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-41208081676050738992017-07-21T11:00:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:27.129-05:00Accepting my INFJ personality <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qW-z_gSChNY/WiisOvWyVsI/AAAAAAAACiw/6GnwE_X6hrIUCvG0U3DGca0HLm4GlQc6wCKgBGAs/s1600/21A83C99-5DE0-471B-81FF-20287D76053B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qW-z_gSChNY/WiisOvWyVsI/AAAAAAAACiw/6GnwE_X6hrIUCvG0U3DGca0HLm4GlQc6wCKgBGAs/s1600/21A83C99-5DE0-471B-81FF-20287D76053B.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />It’z crazy how a four letter acronym can define you so well. I found out I had an <a href="https://www.16personalities.com/es/personalidad-infj" target="_blank">INFJ personality</a> a few years ago, but didn’t start giving it much importance until I came across a website that created content specially for introverts, it’s called <a href="http://introvertdear.com/" target="_blank">Introvert Dear</a>. Reading the articles written by other like me made me feel more comfortable with my personality. I also learned that I have one of the rarest types. <br /><br />Embracing it is something relatively new to me. As a kid, I always felt something was different about me. I was comfortable being me, but having others constantly ask me “why are you so quiet?” made it seem like I was acting wrong. That’s when it began, the whole “blending in” process. I did it in order to avoid answering questions to which I had no other explanation than “that’s how I am”. After attempting to explain myself a few times, I realized that extroverts seldomly understand introvert’s motives. Back then, however, I did not know these characteristics had labels. <br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br />Interestingly enough, I ended up in the faculty I would have least expected: psychology. It wasn’t until college that I began comprehending it all. That the world isn’t black and white, that very few individuals are entirely introverts or extroverts. On most cases, we’re all ambiverts with different levels of intro/extraversion. I learned that there was nothing wrong with me, that temperament and personality is not something you get to choose consciously, but rather develops by hereditary and environmental factors. <br /><br />The <a href="https://www.16personalities.com/" target="_blank">Myers and Briggs</a> test isn’t the only one nor the most precise. A more detailed personality test is The <a href="http://www.personal.psu.edu/faculty/j/5/j5j/IPIP/ipipneo300.htm" target="_blank">Big Five</a>, which measures: openness to experience, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism. Despite this, it’s hard to fully state that one is better than the other. As a psychologist, I can assure you that nothing is written on stone. There are various branches and I wouldn’t be surprised if a few years from now, a new theory was developed. <br /><br />All in all, even if I can be a bit of an extrovert on occasions, I haven’t found any other result than can describe me so precisely. This doesn’t mean that I won’t change over time --shifts are always possible. But for now, I won’t shy away from telling the world my four-letter type. <br /><br /><br />P.S. This article also appeared in <a href="http://socialintroverts.com/journal/how-i-came-to-accept-my-personality" target="_blank">Social Introverts</a>.Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-50132654381559237882017-07-16T12:57:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:27.337-05:00Why I don't blog fashion + 5 trends I dislike<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rzpVoGMHklo/WirewMuPzlI/AAAAAAAACkE/Qe6iW5E_fjQzZSniqiIA2S-iEHChA8nTACLcBGAs/s1600/CB6CEBE6-B0CC-474B-94E6-268054568911.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rzpVoGMHklo/WirewMuPzlI/AAAAAAAACkE/Qe6iW5E_fjQzZSniqiIA2S-iEHChA8nTACLcBGAs/s1600/CB6CEBE6-B0CC-474B-94E6-268054568911.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/brown-fedora-hat-beside-white-sneakers-and-blue-textile-8434/" target="_blank">Pexels</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As you may be noticed, I’ve barely ever written about fashion in the last 5 years that I’ve kept this blog. This doesn’t mean I’m not keen on shopping for clothes or dressing nicely. The main reason why I don’t like to write about this topic is because in this “millennial” era, there are too many style varieties and the trends seem to last less than a year. I, on the other hand, am more fond of purchasing timeless/classic pieces. Hence, I don’t see the point in posting about what I wear if it doesn’t change much. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If I had to describe my style, I'd say I mainly dress with neutral colors: whites, blacks and earthy tones. I prefer clean cuts and avoid crazy patterns (except for a few summer blouses). I'm the type that likes to invest on certain items --such as coats and jeans-- but looks for other items in a bargain. And I firmly believe that less is more when it comes to fashion, which is why I don't do too much layering or combine too many colors. </div><a name='more'></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Here are the five trends I haven't gotten into/didn't understand:</div><br /><ol><li>Plastic/rubber material for shoes: these will cause sweaty feet, ew, and no I do not care if Kim K is wearing them, celebrities slay everything </li><li>Flat and thick platforms/wedges: being so flat they will make your feet hurt, plus they look somewhat grotesque </li><li>Overall long dresses: maybe this is just personal, but since I’m short, this would look plain odd on me</li><li>Unnecessary layering: can someone kindly explain this? I ran out of words</li><li>Fishnet tights: they hold no purpose, other than being an uncomfortable accessory</li></ol><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NZYMQFhu9R4/WWpyMbvsh8I/AAAAAAAACNs/uedkv2JU_YwUuz8GujYnwXh_kJ7Q_UCZQCLcBGAs/s1600/5trends.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1571" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NZYMQFhu9R4/WWpyMbvsh8I/AAAAAAAACNs/uedkv2JU_YwUuz8GujYnwXh_kJ7Q_UCZQCLcBGAs/s1600/5trends.png" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All products are from Forever 21</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I get that millennials want to stand out. Even though according to my age, I’d be included in this social group, there are many things I don’t really share with them. Perhaps it is because I’ve been living in Peru for the past 8 years and the reality here is quite different than in a first world country (if I would have stayed in Florida, I might have had a different mindset, who knows?). </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I comprehend that fashion is a form of self-expressing that, in one way or another, transmits a social context. Technology is now part of our everyday lives, our generation has had much more opportunities and freedom of speech than that of our parents/grandparents. But I don’t see how that justifies dressing so extravagantly. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>It’s just my opinion and it’s totally okay if you don’t agree. ‘Til next time! Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-65269338320655109752017-07-09T11:34:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:27.501-05:005 Benefits of Journaling<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwV4yEehOok/Wi1qMd6sKuI/AAAAAAAACkU/XjJERjVDfU0PyiKnM8NbJieb0MMOTVXuACLcBGAs/s1600/F10F7E1D-BD3C-45F9-A4DD-3809BF7CF026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="La luna Vita Blog" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LwV4yEehOok/Wi1qMd6sKuI/AAAAAAAACkU/XjJERjVDfU0PyiKnM8NbJieb0MMOTVXuACLcBGAs/s1600/F10F7E1D-BD3C-45F9-A4DD-3809BF7CF026.JPG" title="" /></a></div><br />I recall keeping a journal/diary as early as the age of six (I got it as a birthday present). To be honest, I’ve actually kept all the journals I’ve used throughout the years. Of course back then my handwriting was horrible, I misspelled almost everything and I’d write about unamusing events like “<i>June 14, 2000: Today I went to the mall.</i>” Still, it became a habit that stuck with me ever since. One of the things I’ve grown fond of is rereading my entries after months or years. I’ve found it both entertaining and bewildering -- realizing on many occasions that I’ve overreacted about little things, the type of things that wouldn’t make me upset now.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Journaling has helped me in different ways. What I’ve noticed is it’s been most effective when using notebook and pen. I’ve tried online journaling, there are great sites such as <a href="https://penzu.com/app/login" target="_blank">Penzu</a>, but I rather stick to the old-school version. There’s nothing more freeing than being able to scribble your thoughts, not limiting it to words but also illustrations. (I’m sorry trees).<br /><a name='more'></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Here are 5 benefits that I’ve found in journaling:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ol><li><b>Know yourself better: </b>By writing down about what’s been bothering or bringing you joy, you’ll be able to detect patterns in your emotions and behaviors. Must emphasize though that in order to for this to work, it doesn’t rely solely on writing but also taking your time to read it later.</li><li><b>Ramble without hesitation:</b> As an introvert, I’m naturally a reserved person. On occasions I do vent with those who are closest to me. But there are times when I simply don’t want to bother anyone or the people I want to talk to don’t have time. That’s when your journal comes in handy, plus it won’t be judging you.</li><li><b>Clear your mind:</b> If you’re ever feeling overwhelmed because so many thoughts are crossing your mind, writing them down will help you think in a more linear way. Even if you don’t find a solution right away, you will feel much more relieved afterward.</li><li><b>De-stress:</b> This is rather a consequence of all of the above. By expressing yourself you’re releasing any tension that has been holding you back. Think of it like a mini-spa in a piece of paper.</li><li><b>Creativity booster:</b> Last but not least, I’ve realized that while writing I’ve come up with creative pieces, such as fiction, poetry and even blog post ideas. Although I rarely share these writings and I haven’t actually blogged all of the ideas that have occurred to me, keeping them in a notebook is like having an archive I can go back to anytime.</li></ol><div><br />Have you tried journaling before? Let me know in the comments! </div>Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-2387680396848957202017-06-29T10:37:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:27.708-05:00Into the jungle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s3-w-TM0T4Y/WVUdzuP5jCI/AAAAAAAACKw/keSZ7Ny2jyUrNkMhuR6XFeaZ_RnT6k1swCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="La Luna Vita" border="0" data-original-height="1277" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s3-w-TM0T4Y/WVUdzuP5jCI/AAAAAAAACKw/keSZ7Ny2jyUrNkMhuR6XFeaZ_RnT6k1swCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_9046.JPG" title="" /></a></div><br />Last week I traveled to the jungle region of the country, a small city called Iquitos. According to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2015/aug/19/where-worlds-most-remote-city" target="_blank">The Guardian</a>, it is considered one of the world’s most remote cities. There are only two ways of getting there: by airplane or by boat. There are no roads that connect it to another city due to it’s surrounding geography. <br /><br />The entire experience was nonetheless unforgettable. Even though I’m terrified of insects --and oh boy, there you find <i>all</i> kinds and sizes-- the view was worth it. The Amazon river is simply majestic. Up from the sky it is impossible not to recognize its’ swirls in the midst of the green rainforest. While navigating in the river itself, you can feel the relentless current in the form of soft sand-colored waves. The best part of traveling to remote areas are the night skies filled luminous little dots. <br /><br />So here are some photographs, 'til next time!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v-WEJGSLTqY/WVUd3b2wDsI/AAAAAAAACK0/0XPIbQIFfNQ9TqyZpX7nmXAe7xSmWz90wCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_9045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v-WEJGSLTqY/WVUd3b2wDsI/AAAAAAAACK0/0XPIbQIFfNQ9TqyZpX7nmXAe7xSmWz90wCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_9045.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9HW8rEhtfv0/WVUd9Wovh6I/AAAAAAAACK8/QnCvq66LzsUqBJ-lfucY3OwnNtLRm0O0gCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_9049collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="la luna vita" border="0" data-original-height="793" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9HW8rEhtfv0/WVUd9Wovh6I/AAAAAAAACK8/QnCvq66LzsUqBJ-lfucY3OwnNtLRm0O0gCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_9049collage.jpg" title="" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AM4Qk-kvsfw/WVUd6leMv0I/AAAAAAAACK4/JohSS4Qlnt8LPEcsyzN8THcSF0wAChEnQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_9047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="la luna vita" border="0" data-original-height="1283" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AM4Qk-kvsfw/WVUd6leMv0I/AAAAAAAACK4/JohSS4Qlnt8LPEcsyzN8THcSF0wAChEnQCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_9047.JPG" title="" /></a></div><br /><br /><br />Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-33948806093929498772017-06-17T10:30:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:27.929-05:00Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l-mrsGsgSGg/WUSdV2PBWmI/AAAAAAAACKU/wIO-IoLpJq8pDwD57POsH_bcELc9Ldl4QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="la luna vita book blog harry potter" border="0" data-original-height="1508" data-original-width="1515" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l-mrsGsgSGg/WUSdV2PBWmI/AAAAAAAACKU/wIO-IoLpJq8pDwD57POsH_bcELc9Ldl4QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_8152.JPG" title="" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Hello there! Well, a couple of weeks ago I finished reading Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone for the first time ever. I still do not comprehend why I never bothered to pick up the books when I was a kid. I was fascinated by the movies but too lazy to read all of those pages. I always told myself that I would read it soon, and then time passed by. My teen years drifted away, I stepped into adulthood and I remembered that promise I made myself so many years ago. It’s better late than never, right? </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">While reading the book, I couldn’t help comparing it to the movie. I enjoyed learning more about the characters, the small little details and quirks that were overlooked in the films. Before, I would always wonder how each Hogwarts House differentiated itself; while Gryffindor’s and Slytherin’s attributes were obvious, there was never an explanation on Ravenclaw or Hufflepuff. Now that I’m reading it, things are starting to make more sense.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><a name='more'></a><br />Here are a few details that caught my attention:<br /><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">The Durselys are even more obnoxious than in the movies. Uncle Vernon is literally mad. Is it a coincidence that his name sounds a lot like venom? And how can someone be so cruel to a relative?</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Professor McGonagall has black hair, yet in the movie she has gray hair. In the book she also seems to be stricter.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Harry Potter meets the Weasley twins before speaking to Ron, and when they do talk, Ron already knew who he was.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Harry and Draco first meet while buying the school robes in Diagon Alley, but Harry never mentioned his name.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Hermione is not only smart, but apparently she is also very organized and sets up studying schedules, which reminded me a bit of myself.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The first time they meet Fluffy (the three headed dog) Neville was with them. And in general, Neville has a lot more participation in the book.</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.google.com.pe/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=images&cd=&ved=0ahUKEwiM5oWB9cPUAhWKOiYKHWR_AWsQjRwIBw&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.barnesandnoble.com%2Fw%2Fharry-potter-and-the-sorcerers-stone-j-k-rowling%2F1121061860&psig=AFQjCNE598MtnQV4C0D6TMdyFADWxWI7dA&ust=1497755691938859"><img border="0" data-original-height="193" data-original-width="192" src="https://prodimage.images-bn.com/pimages/9780545790352_p8_v19_s192x300.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Still, I consider the film to be good. Nevertheless, “good” is not an adjective that does justice for describing this book. I finally get what the hype was all about! Anyhow, I am aware that there is a long way to go, six books to be precise. I think one of the aspects that prevented me from reading the books sooner was that I was afraid I wouldn’t like them, and my overall preference for Harry Potter would be affected. I’m glad I was wrong. To the extent that I already have my own account on <a href="https://www.pottermore.com/">PotterMore.com</a>. My House is Gryffindor and my Expecto Patronum is a Tonkinese Cat...but I swear I’m a dog person.</div><br /><b>Final rating: 5/5 </b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">P.S. This was more of a first impression than a review. I’m still pondering whether I should do a post for each book, let me know what you think in the comments below! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">P.P.S. Today I broke my “no spoilers” rule, sorry about that. </div>Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-46054776763334869972017-06-08T10:30:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:28.095-05:00Favorites<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lG85EJnIwbM/WStAWsLFhFI/AAAAAAAACIs/3NOpDgPR7g4VZCoDl10JxNRw_CS7ZjdNQCLcB/s1600/IMG_8132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="La Luna Vita Lifestyle Blog" border="0" data-original-height="1283" data-original-width="1600" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lG85EJnIwbM/WStAWsLFhFI/AAAAAAAACIs/3NOpDgPR7g4VZCoDl10JxNRw_CS7ZjdNQCLcB/s1600/IMG_8132.JPG" title="" /></a></div><br />Hello! I haven't done a favorites post in a while. Today I will be sharing some of the things I've been loving. First, let's begin with the hair products:<br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">GNC Women's Biotin Shampoo: I couldn't find a link to the exact product, <a href="http://www.amazon.in/GNC-Womens-Biotin-Shampoo-354/dp/B00MA6RKDW" target="_blank">this one on Amazon was the closest one</a> (I guess it's only the packaging that has changed). I started using this shampoo by accident, I had ran out of my own and my mom was using this one so I borrowed it. Thank goodness I did, because it is by far the best drugstore shampoo. My hair has been falling noticeably less since I started using it and it does not cause dryness. </li><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/John-Frieda-Frizz-Dream-Conditioner/dp/B0034F3VW2" target="_blank">John Freida Frizz Ease Conditioner:</a> Back in December I talked about <a href="http://www.lalunavita.com/2016/12/favorites.html" target="_blank">John Freida's Beach Blonde conditioner</a> which worked amazing during the first few uses. Afterwards, I noticed it was one of those conditioners that in order to work well, you can't use it too often, otherwise it won't have the same effect. So that's why I decided to try the Dream Curls conditioner. This one hydrates quite well and I use it every other day. I still have a bit left of the Beach Blonde conditioner, but I use it every other week just to add some extra moisture. </li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JSv_m285fz8/WSs41ZJCnJI/AAAAAAAACIg/mk9MZuBmytIiXnC9ZRZeTZAtucNcD4t8gCEw/s1600/IMG_8130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="la luna vita lifestyle blog" border="0" data-original-height="1283" data-original-width="1600" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JSv_m285fz8/WSs41ZJCnJI/AAAAAAAACIg/mk9MZuBmytIiXnC9ZRZeTZAtucNcD4t8gCEw/s1600/IMG_8130.JPG" title="" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.maybelline.com/eye-makeup/mascara/lash-sensational-washable-mascara" target="_blank">Maybelline's Lash Sensational</a>: As mentioned in my <a href="http://www.lalunavita.com/2017/03/daily-makeup-routine.html" target="_blank">daily makeup routine post,</a> I don't wear mascara regularly. However, this one might be the exception. First off, it's washable, and while most beauty bloggers prefer the waterproof version, I on the other hand consider it to be too rough for my eyelashes, causing them to fall. This washable version still lasts pretty long, it's not like you're going to wear it to go dance under the rain (but I won't judge if you do). What I loved the most about it was the wand, the tight bristles equals zero lumps. </li></ul><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-veFzYH_B_3E/WSs42LJZZDI/AAAAAAAACIg/_--_CWGBNMo_BkDYrwIvKfUg9Y0nFSeDgCEw/s1600/IMG_8129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="la luna vita blog" border="0" data-original-height="1283" data-original-width="1600" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-veFzYH_B_3E/WSs42LJZZDI/AAAAAAAACIg/_--_CWGBNMo_BkDYrwIvKfUg9Y0nFSeDgCEw/s1600/IMG_8129.JPG" title="" /></a></div><ul><li><a href="http://www.dior.com/beauty/en_us/fragrance-beauty/fragrance/womens-fragrance/poison/pr-poisonfpl-y0263210-eau-de-toilette.html" target="_blank">Dior's Poison Girl perfume</a>: I've been looking for a statement scent and I think I finally found it. While I still love Miss Dior, I prefer wearing it on special occasions. Poison Girl, on the other hand, has a softer aroma, making it ideal for everyday use. The one I currently have is the sample version I received for free while making some purchases for Mother's Day. I can't wait to buy the regular size one. I must add that, even though Dior fragrances are on the pricier side, I think it's worth the investment. All of their perfumes last long and all you need is a dab. </li><li>Last but not least, can we discuss Lana Del Rey's latest singles? Both <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eP4eqhWc7sI" target="_blank">Lust for Life</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjDfD_RtYiA" target="_blank">Coachella - Woodstock In My Mind</a> have been playing non stop on my phone. In my opinion, it had been a while since she released music that was so catchy. Don't get me wrong, I still enjoyed some of her songs from the <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/mx/album/ultraviolence-deluxe/id880747579" target="_blank">Ultraviolence</a> and <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/mx/album/honeymoon/id1032112078" target="_blank">Honeymoon</a> albums, but I felt as if something was missing. Now, whatever that things was, she definitely has it back. Can't wait for the Lust for Life album release!</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>That'd be all for now. 'Til next time!</div></div>Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-47160084242820963802017-06-01T10:30:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:28.306-05:00Book Review: Northanger Abbey<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AE9JrLjOtdg/Wiir2ETubKI/AAAAAAAACis/Jk4SISxblLINhRxPVN5zfl7bF1pDHA0aQCKgBGAs/s1600/36A5DF0E-AB4F-4F91-B3D9-A976184D5CFA.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1282" data-original-width="1600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AE9JrLjOtdg/Wiir2ETubKI/AAAAAAAACis/Jk4SISxblLINhRxPVN5zfl7bF1pDHA0aQCKgBGAs/s1600/36A5DF0E-AB4F-4F91-B3D9-A976184D5CFA.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Hi there! I just finished reading Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen. This is the third novel I read by this author, and unlike the previous two (which were <i>Pride and Prejudice</i> and <i>Persuasion</i>) this one was remarkably different. I'm guessing it's because it was her first written novel, although it was published post mortem. Perhaps Jane Austen hadn't defined her style completely yet. I thought it was a bit odd that from time to time, the author would directly address the reader. From those extracts throughout the novel, you can easily infer that Austen was a strongly opinionated woman. Of course, the romantic theme still prevailed. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The main character is Catherine Morland, a 17 year old girl from Fullerton who gets invited by the Allens (friends of her family) to spend a month in Bath. Unlike Elizabeth Bennet and Anne Elliot, she's younger and naive. Catherine does not easily perceive a person's intention, whether those intentions are good or bad. She genuinely believes what others tell her and only comes to a realization towards the end of the novel. And indeed, there is a boy, who she coincidently meets in Bath. His name is Henry Tinley, a 26 year old clergyman from a wealthy family. He has read gothic novels, which are Catherine's favorite, so they have plenty to discuss. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Catherine becomes close friends with Henry's younger sister, Eleanor. Their friendship extends to the point the she gets invited to spend a few weeks at Northanger Abbey, the home of the Tinleys. Here is where the satire of gothic novels begins, Catherine's imagination starts growing a little bit wild thanks to the stories she has read. But what is truly important in this part, is that she and Henry get to know each other better. Consequently, their emotions for one another begin to increase mutually. But will they be able to have their happily ever after? </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As I have mentioned before, I don't like to spoil it for those who haven't read it yet. And as usual, I do recommend Jane Austen's novels, it's impossible not to. Overall rating: 4/5. </div>Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-42437004050666168962017-05-19T11:30:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:28.521-05:00Going on a hiatus?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5mAtNCVW4vo/WQYtjBN1_pI/AAAAAAAACG4/Gue-tNd-FLA3Xc9I9yNizRD9OeR5LJqSQCLcB/s1600/IMG_7748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="La Luna Vita Blog" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5mAtNCVW4vo/WQYtjBN1_pI/AAAAAAAACG4/Gue-tNd-FLA3Xc9I9yNizRD9OeR5LJqSQCLcB/s1600/IMG_7748.JPG" title="" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quick fact: my first post ever was on May 19, 2012. That is why I chose today for publishing.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="text-align: justify;">Hello! Well, it’s incredible how fast time has passed. It’s been five years since I started this blog. It began with the name </span><i style="text-align: justify;">Lunaris Vita</i><span style="text-align: justify;"> and then slowly transformed to </span><i style="text-align: justify;">La Luna Vita</i><span style="text-align: justify;">. Same semantics, just different phonetics. This is the longest I’ve ever blogged for, posting something almost every month. At the beginning, I just wanted a place of my own to ramble. Then I started defining the topics but I still went off track every now and then.</span><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I’m definitely not the same as I was back in 2012. While rereading old posts, I get flashbacks of that girl in her late teens, yearning to write about whatever came to mind and posting sporadically. These past couple of years, I’ve been writing down ideas, planning out posts and even scheduling them. Like this post for example, as I’m writing it, it’s April 28 but this probably won’t get published until late May. I’ve been reflecting lately about what I want to do from now on. And unfortunately, the blog isn’t in sight. Now, I don’t want to be the girl who cried wolf, saying this will be the definite end, because it most probably won’t. Writing here has been a big part of my life, and I can’t just leave from one day to the next. All I’m trying to say is that the blog is no longer one of my priorities. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Nevertheless, I may change the focus of the blog a bit. You can probably tell I’ve been posting constant book reviews lately. Well, that’s because I set myself a personal goal of reading more this year. I’m currently on my 4th novel so far, and there’s plenty more to read. Perhaps I might still post occasional product reviews and beauty tips, but those will no longer be the main subject. And I no longer want to feel pressured to have a post ready by the end of each week. I already have enough pressure with the things going on in my life, certainly don’t need any extra pressure -- especially if I’m the one causing it to myself. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So now, this isn’t a goodbye. I will return, maybe even sooner than expected. But with different airs and different aims. When I switched the name to La Luna Vita, I wanted to get away from the whole “beauty” thing, but it was a circular trip because I ended up going back to where I started. I hope that this time, things will be different.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">‘Til next time! </div>Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-38805757928963191192017-05-13T13:22:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:28.746-05:00Reread: Dreamland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qUmyGpJV9ZA/WQYqEssBihI/AAAAAAAACGg/GtDnBulc5fU5VmPredJJH6OkSDB_1DJuQCLcB/s1600/IMG_7749.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="La Luna Vita Blog Dreamland Sarah Dessen Book Review" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qUmyGpJV9ZA/WQYqEssBihI/AAAAAAAACGg/GtDnBulc5fU5VmPredJJH6OkSDB_1DJuQCLcB/s1600/IMG_7749.JPG" title="" /></a></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It’s the second time I read this book. I remember the first time I read it I was 12 years old, just starting middle school. The cover caught my eye while roaming around the school library, of course it had <a href="http://images.gr-assets.com/books/1347497656l/1083394.jpg" target="_blank">a different cover back then.</a> And yes, I tend to pick out books based on the cover. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For a long time, I considered Dreamland to be my favorite book. It was the first novel I read by Sarah Dessen. I soon started reading many others of the YA genre (by Dessen and other authors), but no other book could dethrone it’s number one spot. Back in 2009 I purchased it just to have a copy of my own, but I didn’t dare to read it. Weird, right? My “favorite” book from middle school, but I just couldn’t reread it. Well, let me tell you that copy rested in my bookshelf for many more years to come. Only recently, did I get the courage to read it again. And although I already knew how it all ends, it hit me hard. Once more. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For those of you who haven’t read it, the story is about sixteen year old Caitlin, who unexpectedly meets Rogerson Biscoe -- a different and mysterious guy, nothing like her high school peers. Green eyes, olive skin and the wild hair. The central topic is abusive relationships -- a topic that is still not discussed enough even today. He’s older, he smokes and sells pot, it was obvious he was trouble. But young and naive Caitlin didn’t see it coming, and when she realized in what situation she was in, she simply couldn’t get out. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sFy9oBm-lK0/WQYrXQbCb4I/AAAAAAAACGs/Rbk0FZzcw58eA-JeVa3An5bPTwmfwJMwwCLcB/s1600/IMG_7751.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="La Luna Vita Blog Dreamland Sarah Dessen Book Review" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sFy9oBm-lK0/WQYrXQbCb4I/AAAAAAAACGs/Rbk0FZzcw58eA-JeVa3An5bPTwmfwJMwwCLcB/s1600/IMG_7751.JPG" title="" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It’s impossible not to love Rogerson at first. Of course if you’ve already read it, you’re just thinking he’s a total scumbag and part of you wants to warn Caitlin. But you certainly can’t because they’re just fictional characters. However, there are many girls who go through the same thing or worse. I recently saw 13 Reasons Why and I couldn’t help relating these two. Depression can have different manifestations. Even though Caitlin made certain choices but later receives help, other girls in her situation could have taken the same decision as Hannah (main character from 13 Reasons Why).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I’m actually a very emotional person and I usually do not vent about it, even less write about it publicly. But seeing 13 Reasons Why and rereading Dreamland, with a one week difference, was definitely not the best decision. It was a bit overwhelming. Aside from all the emotions, I did enjoy reading it again. And I can now openly state that Dreamland is no longer my favorite book, but it will always have a special place in my heart. </div>Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-24805883440573680732017-05-07T12:00:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:28.956-05:00Holographic dreams <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2MBDYfJbTGk/WQYlG5vZ7JI/AAAAAAAACGQ/c1htXfl2cKguGc6VcB0e_E_cI9rqD5RkACLcB/s1600/IMG_7745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="La Luna Vita photography blog" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2MBDYfJbTGk/WQYlG5vZ7JI/AAAAAAAACGQ/c1htXfl2cKguGc6VcB0e_E_cI9rqD5RkACLcB/s1600/IMG_7745.JPG" title="" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I always find intrigue in blurry and poor quality photographs. (Circa 2012)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Holographic dreams </div><div style="text-align: center;">The type you want to wake up from </div><div style="text-align: center;">Hovering above the sea </div><div style="text-align: center;">Swirls and whimsical bodies of water </div><div style="text-align: center;">Fluorescence beneath your feet </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Blending in the darkness </div><div style="text-align: center;">Spectrums surrounding </div><div style="text-align: center;">Catch me </div><div style="text-align: center;">Before I fall asleep</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uzaD4HwO2XE/VhHxCRthfHI/AAAAAAAABj0/hTJbpI3W_4c/s1600/Captura%2Bde%2Bpantalla%2B2015-10-04%2Ba%2Blas%2B22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uzaD4HwO2XE/VhHxCRthfHI/AAAAAAAABj0/hTJbpI3W_4c/s1600/Captura%2Bde%2Bpantalla%2B2015-10-04%2Ba%2Blas%2B22.jpg" /></a></div>Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-46540920178121287152017-05-01T10:30:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:29.168-05:005 different uses of vaseline/petroleum jelly <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-377HQwo89xI/WQYeKe_eTWI/AAAAAAAACGA/lmW0-OkoFvQCW8Ch4lU0_VngjEESAMOuACEw/s1600/IMG_7740.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="La Luna Vita lifestyle blog" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-377HQwo89xI/WQYeKe_eTWI/AAAAAAAACGA/lmW0-OkoFvQCW8Ch4lU0_VngjEESAMOuACEw/s1600/IMG_7740.JPG" title="" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hi there! Today I’ll be talking about vaseline and different ways of using it. To start off, what is vaseline? Also known as petroleum jelly, it derives from oil, which makes it unfriendly for the environment. According to this article I found in the <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/21/vaseline-petroleum-jelly_n_4136226.html" target="_blank">Huffington Post</a>, it can even be dangerous because some of its components can cause cancer if they aren’t adequately removed. Another interesting fact is that vaseline per se doesn’t actually hydrate the skin, rather it locks in moisture and consequently prevents dryness.</div><br />Regardless, I’ve recently started using it, and found that it does come in handy. Here are five ways it has worked for me, though in Pinterest you can find plenty more: <br /><br /><ol><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Chapped lips</b>: Yes, I know I just wrote that vaseline doesn’t really hydrate the skin. I still use my regular lip balm (Maybelline’s Baby Lips) but I apply a small amount of vaseline on my lips in the mornings while getting ready. I let it dry before applying lipstick. By doing this, I've noticed that my lips no longer get as chapped. </li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Cuticles</b>: Before doing my nails, I apply a small amount on my cuticles, not for hydration, but to stop the nail polish from getting on my skin (since I tend to be slightly sloppy). It helps save time, since before I would have to clean my fingertips with nail polish remover and a cotton swab.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Dry elbows and ankles</b>: Moisturizing body cream wasn’t enough. This summer, for some reason, my left elbow got super dried and no matter if I applied body lotion everyday, I wouldn’t see any results. That is, until I applied vaseline. It took only a few days to notice the different.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Brushing eyebrows</b>: Sometimes my eyebrows get a bit rebellious and found that vaseline was a great alternative for gel. </li><li style="text-align: justify;"> <b>Wounds</b>: A few weeks ago, while preparing a tortilla, I got a tiny oil burn on my index finger. Vaseline made the swelling go away after a couple of uses.</li></ol><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I'm pretty sure there are many more ways of using vaseline, I'll keep on experimenting! That's all for now :) </div>Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5596584609725492860.post-33478809187090639182017-04-22T11:00:00.001-05:002018-02-08T22:01:29.384-05:00Book review: Wuthering Heights<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0OAcqWQ2e-Y/WPOny6IB8FI/AAAAAAAACFs/8fdpLOjNiVw8MLOCbs_ySl4k3RO_8gNbACLcB/s1600/IMG_7583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="wuthering heights review lifestyle blog" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0OAcqWQ2e-Y/WPOny6IB8FI/AAAAAAAACFs/8fdpLOjNiVw8MLOCbs_ySl4k3RO_8gNbACLcB/s1600/IMG_7583.JPG" title="" /></a></div><br />Before even finishing the book, I already knew how I would rate it. While reading some reviews on <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6185.Wuthering_Heights" target="_blank">Good Reads</a>, I noticed there were many opposing point of views. First of all, we can’t deny that Emily Brontë did in fact write a masterpiece. It’s among the most represented novels of English literature. Many people state that they hate this novel because of it’s horrendous characters. Mean, shallow, selfish...the list could go on. I don’t think Brontë’s purpose was to make the characters aspirational, quite the contrary. Perhaps she simply wanted to portray the evil side that many people have, whether they openly show it or not.</div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">When I first began, I found it a bit tedious to even finish the first chapter. However, this year I set myself a goal of reading (and finishing) more books --regardless whether I like them or not. That is why I kept reading, and later found myself wanting to know more about these characters. Just to clarify, no I do not sympathize with them. But as a psychologist, I can’t help myself. Personality development initiates when we’re just toddlers. By the age of five, the characteristics become more visible and it completely takes shape by the time we’re eighteen. Why do the Wuthering Heights residents have such outrageous thoughts and behavior? </div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The ending took me a bit by surprise, given all the despairing outcomes I thought that's how it would finish. But no, after everything that occurred, the ending demonstrated that good things can happen, that the descendents do not have to be commended. There's a saying that goes "there is no evil that lasts a hundred years". Literally.</div><br />Rating: 3.5/5<br /><br /><big></big><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq"><big><b>Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same. </b></big></blockquote>Makarenahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09350625606244863814noreply@blogger.com0