Thursday, September 29, 2016
Autumn Hiking and Backpacking Gear List Extras
Autumn has arrived and with it fewer daylight hours, wet leaves, cold rain, and morning frost. It's still a great time to go hiking and backpacking, but I like to add a few technical and comfort items to my day hiking and backpacking gear list and swap in some different footwear as temperatures drop.
Stronger headlamp
As the days get shorter, it's increasingly likely that I'll have to hike and set up camp after sunset. I switch out my warm weather Petzl e+Lite headlamp for the much brighter and heavier duty Black Diamond Icon headlamp. It's bright enough that I can hike after sunset if I have to. It also has a locking on-off switch, which I think is a trail essential to prevent accidental battery drain when you can't afford it.
Warm Gloves
I switched to Possum Down gloves last year for cool weather hiking. They're super light, super warm, and dry quickly. They're just lightweight gloves to take the chill off. When it gets colder and wetter, I'll also bring Outdoor Research Versaliner softshell gloves which have a removable waterproof shell. The added weight is negligible and I can use the rain shells with both pairs of gloves.
Puffy insulated jacket
I also pack a lightweight Montbell synthetic insulated jacket in my daypack and for overnights. It's not really suitable as an active mid-layer when I'm hiking because it's too warm; I use a 100 weight fleece pullover for that. But a puffy jacket is a nice garment to pull out when we stop for a break or each lunch, when I'm not moving.
Lithium batteries
I always use lithium batteries in my headlamps and electronic gadgets, but if you don't, you should definitely switch from alkaline batteries to lithium batteries for cold weather use. Alkaline batteries have water in them and stop functioning when temperatures drop below freezing. Lithium batteries don't and will still work in sub-freezing temperatures. They cost more but they work when you need them to.
More food
I burn more calories trying to stay warm in cold weather and like to bring more food along on hikes, especially chocolate, which keeps a lot better in cold weather. Mmmm.
Dry layers/stove/extra insulation
I frequently carry extra baselayers (top and bottom) and socks in autumn on day hikes as a hedge against an unexpectedly long hike, the onset of really crappy weather, or an unexpected night out. It happens when you test your limits on high mileage "day" hikes or someone gets hurt and you get back far later than you expected. In fact, as temperatures get colder, the contents of my day pack look more and more like the contents of my overnight backpacking gear list. In addition to an extra base layer, I often carry a small stove/cook pot, or a lightweight sleeping bag, especially if I'm hiking by myself off the grid.
Blaze orange hat, buff, or vest
Come October, it's hunting season where I hike and backpack. While I'm not that worried about accidentally getting shot, I do wear blaze orange clothing as a precaution. I have a blaze orange billed cap that I wear as well as a Turtle Fur blaze orange neck gaiter that doubles as a good layering piece. I've thought about switching to a backpack that isn't white (white-tailed deer), but I figure wearing blaze orange is a sufficient precaution under the circumstances.
Insulated boots
When daytime temperatures dip into the upper 30's, I switch from trail runners to lightly insulated hiking boots with 200g of insulation. I hate having cold feet in autumn and these really pay off when I hike through wet and boggy terrain. I've been breaking in a pair of Vasque Cold Spark insulated boots after destroying a pair of Vasque Snow Junkie boots last year. They're fairly soft boots, but it is a shock to transition from trail runners to them. I'll upgrade to a much warmer winter boot when full winter arrives.
Being Prepared
Adding gear to your backpack when the days get shorter and colder is prudent, especially if you hike in challenging terrain or over a long distance. Put it like this. Ultralight backpacking is a lot easier to do when the days are long and the weather is hot. While you can still use ultralight backpacking techniques and gear to keep your gear weight on the low side, I think it helps to be a bit more conservative in what you bring on day hikes and autumn backpacking trips as winter nears.
Plan ahead, check the weather forecast, think about the demands of your route, and the skills and experience of your hiking partners. Gear lists aren't static, but should be tuned to the conditions you expect to encounter or that you might conceivably encounter whether you plan to or not.
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The Grey by Westland – Ultra Luxury West Point Grey Pre-Construction Residences
Epitome of Modern Elegance
The Grey is situated at the north end of Dunbar Village on West 16th Avenue, The homes in the neighbourhood are predominantly single-family. With this in mind, homes are designed to appeal to the luxuries and comforts of single-family living. Designed by acclaimed IBI, the four-storey building complements the historic neighbourhood with a composite of natural stone, metal panel, glass and concrete. The Grey is a timeless illustration of contemporary elegance.
The Grey will have a selection of two-bedroom to three-bedroom plus den homes, also included in the plans are penthouse level homes, and ground-level commercial space. Penthouses will have their own private rooftop balconies and many homes will benefit from large outdoor terraces.The Grey is located on the crest of Dunbar, north-facing homes will have amazing views of the water, North Shore mountains and Downtown Vancouver. All large homes will carry the Westland pedigree that can only be offered from an ultra luxury single-family builder.
Pricing for The Grey
Details have not yet been released
Floor Plans for The Grey
All residences will consist of two or more bedrooms, including two 1,087 sq ft 2-bedroom suites, 18 2-bedroom + den homes from 1,132-1,353 sq ft, two 1,400 sq ft 3-bedroom condos, and seven penthouses from 911-3,500 sq ft.
Superior Interiors
- Two finely-crafted, custom colour palettes by Guo Interiors coordinate with your personal style
- 9' ceilings in living and bedroom areas visually expand the scope of each room
- Wide-plank engineered hardwood flooring flows throughout the living and bedroom areas
- Side-by-side washer and dryer laundry closets
- Solid core doors in each room create additional privacy and security
- Custom-designed built-in closets allow for plenty of room for organization of your possessions
- Automated smart-home technology by Creston controls temperature and lighting through a sleek wall-mount keypad
- Additional smart-home technology available through the Westland Design Centre
- Tailor your home with our pre-selected options for customization and personalization at the Westland Design Centre
Connoisseur Kitchens
- Italian-imported, custom-stained oak veneer cabinets designed for the needs of the at-home chef
- Oversized kitchens with islands
- Renowned, state-of-the-art Gaggeneau appliances:
- Multi-language options
- 36" 5-burner gas cooktop with stainless steel high CFM hood fan
- Stand-alone 24" integrated refrigerator column
- Stand-alone 18" integrated freezer column
- Built-in microwave
- Built-in, ultra-quiet speed dishwasher
- 24" handleless, automatic door-opening wall oven
- Each home includes the option for a one-of-a kind culinary entertainment centre with an integrated pantry that features:
- Gaggeneau coffee maker
- Gaggeneau refrigerated wine column
- Pull-out storage
- Custom bar with mirrored wall and lit display shelving for your finest cognac
- Custom-designed drawer and door organizers keep kitchen essentials in their place
- Integrated soft-touch, self-close doors and drawers maintain a visually clean kitchen and minimize noise
- Kitchens offer convenient under-cabinet task LED lighting for precision work
- Easy-to-maintain solid quartz countertops with full-height quartz backsplash and marble-top island make a statement
- European-designed, arched chrome Hans Grohe faucet
Show-Stopper Bathrooms
- Italian-imported, wood veneer cabinets hover over exquisite tile floor
- Master bathroom features:
- Opulent free-standing tub enclosed within a stunning frameless glass bathing room
- Flush-mount, custom-stained oak, mirrored medicine cabinets with built-in lighting and electrical outlets
- Nu-heat flooring for year-round comfort
- Pristine white countertops are paired with Hans Grohe wall-mount or free-standing faucets and fixtures
- Oversized 5'-wide porcelain marble slab creates a spectacular bathing experience
- Powder room features:
- Exceptional oversized, three-sided vessel sink
- Duravit wall-mounted lavatory
- Sparking chrome Hans Grohe faucet
Developer Team for The Grey
Westland, a family company, was established in 2008. Since then, Westland has designed and built over 40 ultra-luxury custom homes in some of Vancouver's most prestige neighbourhoods – Shaughnessy and Kerrisdale. Completely original, each of these custom homes have been meticulously designed to express the unique personality of the homeowner.
Expected Completion for The Grey
Sales start Fall/Winter 2016. Completion date is yet to be determined.
The post The Grey by Westland – Ultra Luxury West Point Grey Pre-Construction Residences appeared first on Vancouver New Condos.
from Buildings – Vancouver New Condos http://ift.tt/2da3LAe
The Grey by Westland – Ultra Luxury West Point Grey Pre-Construction Residences
Epitome of Modern Elegance
The Grey is situated at the north end of Dunbar Village on West 16th Avenue, The homes in the neighbourhood are predominantly single-family. With this in mind, homes are designed to appeal to the luxuries and comforts of single-family living. Designed by acclaimed IBI, the four-storey building complements the historic neighbourhood with a composite of natural stone, metal panel, glass and concrete. The Grey is a timeless illustration of contemporary elegance.
The Grey will have a selection of two-bedroom to three-bedroom plus den homes, also included in the plans are penthouse level homes, and ground-level commercial space. Penthouses will have their own private rooftop balconies and many homes will benefit from large outdoor terraces.The Grey is located on the crest of Dunbar, north-facing homes will have amazing views of the water, North Shore mountains and Downtown Vancouver. All large homes will carry the Westland pedigree that can only be offered from an ultra luxury single-family builder.
Pricing for The Grey
Details have not yet been released
Floor Plans for The Grey
All residences will consist of two or more bedrooms, including two 1,087 sq ft 2-bedroom suites, 18 2-bedroom + den homes from 1,132-1,353 sq ft, two 1,400 sq ft 3-bedroom condos, and seven penthouses from 911-3,500 sq ft.
Superior Interiors
- Two finely-crafted, custom colour palettes by Guo Interiors coordinate with your personal style
- 9’ ceilings in living and bedroom areas visually expand the scope of each room
- Wide-plank engineered hardwood flooring flows throughout the living and bedroom areas
- Side-by-side washer and dryer laundry closets
- Solid core doors in each room create additional privacy and security
- Custom-designed built-in closets allow for plenty of room for organization of your possessions
- Automated smart-home technology by Creston controls temperature and lighting through a sleek wall-mount keypad
- Additional smart-home technology available through the Westland Design Centre
- Tailor your home with our pre-selected options for customization and personalization at the Westland Design Centre
Connoisseur Kitchens
- Italian-imported, custom-stained oak veneer cabinets designed for the needs of the at-home chef
- Oversized kitchens with islands
- Renowned, state-of-the-art Gaggeneau appliances:
- Multi-language options
- 36” 5-burner gas cooktop with stainless steel high CFM hood fan
- Stand-alone 24” integrated refrigerator column
- Stand-alone 18” integrated freezer column
- Built-in microwave
- Built-in, ultra-quiet speed dishwasher
- 24” handleless, automatic door-opening wall oven
- Each home includes the option for a one-of-a kind culinary entertainment centre with an integrated pantry that features:
- Gaggeneau coffee maker
- Gaggeneau refrigerated wine column
- Pull-out storage
- Custom bar with mirrored wall and lit display shelving for your finest cognac
- Custom-designed drawer and door organizers keep kitchen essentials in their place
- Integrated soft-touch, self-close doors and drawers maintain a visually clean kitchen and minimize noise
- Kitchens offer convenient under-cabinet task LED lighting for precision work
- Easy-to-maintain solid quartz countertops with full-height quartz backsplash and marble-top island make a statement
- European-designed, arched chrome Hans Grohe faucet
Show-Stopper Bathrooms
- Italian-imported, wood veneer cabinets hover over exquisite tile floor
- Master bathroom features:
- Opulent free-standing tub enclosed within a stunning frameless glass bathing room
- Flush-mount, custom-stained oak, mirrored medicine cabinets with built-in lighting and electrical outlets
- Nu-heat flooring for year-round comfort
- Pristine white countertops are paired with Hans Grohe wall-mount or free-standing faucets and fixtures
- Oversized 5’-wide porcelain marble slab creates a spectacular bathing experience
- Powder room features:
- Exceptional oversized, three-sided vessel sink
- Duravit wall-mounted lavatory
- Sparking chrome Hans Grohe faucet
Developer Team for The Grey
Westland, a family company, was established in 2008. Since then, Westland has designed and built over 40 ultra-luxury custom homes in some of Vancouver’s most prestige neighbourhoods – Shaughnessy and Kerrisdale. Completely original, each of these custom homes have been meticulously designed to express the unique personality of the homeowner.
Expected Completion for The Grey
Sales start Fall/Winter 2016. Completion date is yet to be determined.
The post The Grey by Westland – Ultra Luxury West Point Grey Pre-Construction Residences appeared first on Vancouver New Condos.
from Buildings – Vancouver New Condos http://ift.tt/2da3LAe
16 Incredible Accounts to Follow for Instagram Inspiration
This is a guest post from Kayla Matthews is a productivity blogger based out of Pittsburgh, PA. You can read her latest posts by following her on Twitter @KaylaEMatthews.
Forging your own path as an entrepreneur isn't easy. If it were, more people would likely chance it. Being an independent professional or freelancer comes with a long list of caveats that go hand-in-hand with the benefits.
One of the most helpful aspects is that with modern technology, you can work from anywhere in the world. This is especially true of professions that are always on the move like photographers, journalists and more.
Even programmers, web designers and graphic artists have the opportunity to work from anywhere on their own time.
But there's always a chance — even if you absolutely love what you to do — to run out of creativity and inspiration. When this happens, productivity suffers greatly and so does your business.
One of the best ways to get back in the swing of things is to look elsewhere for inspiration. Believe it or not, one of the best places to do this is Instagram. There are a long list of Instagram accounts that are motivational, inspirational and creative, and it takes only minutes to seek them out.
How to Find Instagram Inspiration
While the primary purpose of this post is to share with you some of my favorite Instagram accounts that motivate and inspire me, I also wanted to give a few helpful tips for finding Instagram inspiration of your own.
If you're reading this post, there's a good chance you're actively trying to grow your own Instagram account, so here are a few helpful tips for finding inspiration for your own account.
1) Post on a Consistent Basis
One of the best ways to stay inspired, is to make sure you're posting on a regular basis. Doing this keeps your creative juices flowing, and more importantly gives you constant feedback from your followers. By knowing what they like, you can tailor your strategy and photo style to them.
2) Don't Be Afraid to Take the "Insta" out of "Instagram"
Yes, Instagram started as simply quick images taken on your phone. But if you're a more advanced photographer, and you find having a point and shoot, DSLR, or the ability to edit using software like Lightroom or Photoshop makes you be more creative, then don't be afraid to post stuff after the fact.
Doing this, while mixing it in with more real, behind the scenes stuff shot on your phone can add personality to your account, which users love to see.
3) Try Something New Every Day
Push yourself to do something every day you've never done before. Breaking that routine is one of the best things you can do to find more Instagram inspiration for your account.
4) Follow Accounts that Inspire You
Probably the best way to find inspiration for your own photos, is to be inspired by other people.
Spend some time searching through Instagram accounts that you find inspiring, and give them a follow. Every time you see a new post come up, it will help foster new ideas for your own business and account.
16 Instagram Accounts to Follow for Inspiration
So, to that last point, here are my favorite motivational Instagram accounts that can help solopreneurs, freelancers and remote workers!
#1. Gary Vaynerchuk
Just in case you're not familiar — and if that's true you probably live under a rock — Gary Vaynerchuk is a renowned serial entrepreneur. He's also invested in major companies like Facebook, Twitter, Uber and more.
He uses his Instagram account to share marketing and social media insights, podcast clips, behind the scenes featurettes and much more. Of course, what you're really looking for is the insights into running your own business, which he definitely provides. You can check out Gary's Instagram at @Garyvee.
#2. Andy Frisella
Andy Frisella is another successful entrepreneur who has a lot to say about the industry. One thing you'll learn from his account is that you shouldn't waste time complaining, but instead spend it doing. One of Andy's most prominent credentials includes a position as CEO of 1st Phorm. It's a supplement company that he helped personally grow into a multi-million-dollar force.
Andy has a wealth of Instagram inspiration on his account with a variety of inspirational quotes, tips and behind the scenes snippets of his popular podcast.
You'll find Andy Frisella at @AndyFrisella.
#3. Prsuit
Prsuit is actually an online publication, founded by Case Kenny. It features both motivational and inspirational content specifically geared toward men.
It's more of a crowd-sourced platform with over 400 contributing authors spread across the globe. The main goal of the publication is to eliminate clickbait and worthless content. They want to provide truly useful articles, stories and experiences for their audience — with the hope that people can resonate. The Instagram account is much of the same, with a litter of inspirational quotes, links to highly motivational stories and a variety of helpful guides for millennials. You can browse the Prsuit account at @Prsuit.
#4. Hustle & Deal Flow Magazine (HDFmagazine)
HDFmagazine is yet another online publication, and it's from Trep Media Group — the same company responsible for Prsuit.
The Instagram account for the magazine features a huge selection of motivational content for entrepreneurs and remote workers. Many of the inspirational quotes featured are taken directly from interviews with successful entrepreneurs that have been featured in the magazine.
The creator of the magazine — Matt Gottesman — also weighs in with tips, insights and more. Perhaps even more awesome is the fact that Gottesman makes it a point to respond to each and every post commented on the site's wall.
You can follow and view HDFmagazine at @HDFMagazine.
#5. Arvin Lal (Arvin's World)
Arvin Lal is the founder of Shredz, a strength building supplement. It seems fitting then that his Instagram account is dedicated to providing motivation and inspiration to his followers. His fans are known as the #ShredzArmy, and they regularly engage and interact with his many posts.
His Instagram is a smorgasbord of inspirational quotes, public speaking snippets from expos and events as well as detailed experiences as the Shredz owner. Even if you're not into health and fitness or supplements, you'll want to follow this guy for his many helpful insights. You can check him out at @ArvinsWorld.
#6. Bethenny Frankel
Bethenny is a reality TV star, from "The Apprentice: Martha Stewart," and "The Real Housewives of New York City." However, her television credits have nothing to do with why she's on this list. She is the founder of Skinny Girl Cocktails, and she has done a lot to grow her business.
Greece is the word A photo posted by Bethenny Frankel (@bethennyfrankel) on
Her Instagram account is motivational and provides a glimpse at what it's like to be a successful and influential entrepreneur. She offers a variety of insights and ideas you won't find elsewhere, particularly because she's a female. Let's face it — women just approach things differently than men, and that's a good thing!
Check out Bethenny at @BethennyFrankel.
#7. Richard Branson
If you don't know who Richard Branson is, you've got a lot of reading to do. He is an extremely successful entrepreneur who is well known for his constant desire to innovate.
Because he is so successful, Branson often travels to exotic locations and experiences many luxuries, and he posts about this on Instagram. That's not why you want to follow him, however.
Branson also hustles, like no one else. His account is filled with inspirational quotes and insights on the intricacies of running a business. If there's only one account you choose to follow from this list, it should be his. Check him out at @RichardBranson.
#8. Pete Cashmore
Pete Cashmore is the founder of Mashable, so it goes without saying his Instagram is overly creative and inspirational. More importantly, Pete Cashmore is real. None of his content seems staged or photoshopped. He doesn't try to sell his audience products, nor does he try to push some underlining agenda. It offers a true, direct look at the day-to-day life of a successful CEO, and that's something we all could use during our journey to the top. Unfortunately, his account is private, so you'll need to send a follow request to see his content. You can find his account at @PeteCashmore.
#9. Belong Mag
Belong Mag is a publication dedicated to celebrating the community of female creatives and entrepreneurs.
Their Instagram account is centered around motivation, inspiration and helpful guides. You'll find motivational accounts to be a dime-a-dozen on Instagram, but this one stands out for the helpful content you'll find.
If you've ever had a question of your own, or run into problems growing your business, you can always check out one of the many guides they offer — written in a how-to style.
You'll want to bookmark @belongmag.
#10. Entrepreneur Magazine
This one seems a bit on the nose, sure, but it's still relevant.
The Entrepreneur Magazine Instagram account is dedicated to "inspiring, informing, and celebrating entrepreneurs." They also feature a regular dose of content from the official magazine, as you'd expect.
Many of the images they share go along with a motivational quote or helpful tip for aspiring entrepreneurs – which makes it one of my favorite accounts for Instagram inspiration.
If you're not already in the habit of visiting their Instagram account @entrepreneur — or their official site while we're at it — you definitely should.
#11. Mark Cuban
There's a reason Mark Cuban has been featured on so many entrepreneur and inspiration-themed lists. He is extremely successful, and he embodies the term "role model," especially for aspiring solopreneurs.
Who knows what pitches we will get !! A photo posted by Mark Cuban (@mcuban) on
He's best known as the owner of the NBA's Dallas Mavericks, but he also owns Magnolia Pictures and Landmark Theatres.
Follow his Instagram @mcuban for a look at how he manages to balance his personal and work life. What's even more inspirational is that you can see Mark Cuban is always focusing on his own health and fitness, despite his busy schedule. It's easy to see his extreme dedication to the things he loves.
#12. Remote Year
Remote Year is a project that unites more than 75 digital nomads — or solopreneurs — across the globe to work, travel and explore up to 12 cities around the world.
The Instagram account is the dedicated sharing stream of all the "nomads" who are chosen to participate. You'll see an eclectic mix of fun and adventurous posts to inspirational messages. If you're interested in taking your work on the road and traveling while you work, this is a great account to check out! Make sure you pay a visit to @remoteyear.
#13. Luis Rocha
Luis Rocha is a photographer and web developer, and he also happens to be incredibly successful.
ˢᴼ ᴹᴱ ᴾᵁᵀ ᴵᴺ ᵂᴼᴿᴷ ᵂᴼᴿᴷ ᵂᴼᴿᴷ ᵂᴼᴿᴷ ᵂᴼᴿᴷ A photo posted by L U I S R O C H A (@luisrochaphoto) on
Unlike some of the other accounts on this list, his is more personal. You'll see a lot of his personal experiences and life, and his love for sneakers — he collects them. However, you'll also catch a glimpse of his hard work and motivational ideas.
Check out Luis at @LuisRochaPhoto.
#14. One Woman Shop
This Instagram account is run by two "co-conspirators," Christina and Sara, responsible for the official One Woman Shop site. The entire purpose of their page is to create and nurture a community of solopreneur women that can interact and engage with one another.
As their site tagline reads: "Going it alone shouldn't feel lonely."
The Instagram account serves as an additional resource hub, highlighting women who are focused on building their solo businesses. What makes it particularly interesting is that Sara and Christina are not responsible for the bulk of the content on the account. They actually allow other solopreneurs to take over and show what's it like to spend a day in their shoes. Through @onewomanshop, you get the chance to see how not just one business is run, but many. How's that for inspiration?
#15. Timothy Sykes
Talk about building something from nothing, Timothy Sykes took $12,415 in penny stocks and turned it into over $4.2 million. That backstory alone is enough inspiration for any solopreneur. He now travels the world and teaches others how to do what he did — invest successfully.
I like to look back at photos from my travels to remind myself, and now I post them on #social media to remind you, that the world is a big, beautiful place that deserves to be explored and enjoyed with your friends and loved ones! #ilovetravel #ilovemyjob #knowledgeispower #travelbug #travelawesome #bestvacations #phuket #sripanwa #jewswithviews A photo posted by Timothy Sykes (@timothysykes) on
His Instagram account is a live journal of his travels, experiences and daily life. Much of his content serves as a reminder of what you could have if you keep up your hustle. He also posts a lot of helpful messages and content you can apply to your own business.
Sykes is also a regular contributor to Entrepreneur.
Be sure to visit him at @TimothySykes.
#16. Location Rebel
The new Location Rebel Instagram account was just launched this week, and it features inspirational quotes, great travel photos and some of the coolest places all over the world that LR community members have worked.
Use the hashtag #locationrebel and to tag photos of your "offices" from around the world to be featured.
Check out the account at @locationrebel
Instagram Inspiration Is All Around
Being a solopreneur can be tough, but with the help of fellow solopreneurs, you don't have to go it alone. Use these Instagram accounts for inspiration and insight to keep your creative mojo and success flowing in your solo venture.
This is a guest post from Kayla Matthews is a productivity blogger based out of Pittsburgh, PA. You can read her latest posts by following her on Twitter @KaylaEMatthews.
The post 16 Incredible Accounts to Follow for Instagram Inspiration appeared first on Location Rebel.
from Location Rebel http://ift.tt/2dniZmP
Tips for braiding curly hair (plus a quick tutorial!)
If you’re new around here, you may not know how much I love braids. I even wrote a book about braids!
Normally I do most of my braid tutorials in straight hair as it’s easier to see the steps. It’s also easier to recreate the styles exactly when I’m shooting tutorials.
In real life, I wear my natural curls a lot and you’ll often find me wearing braids too. I like to wear a half-up braid style on day 2 or 3 while my curls look good out. After that, I will braid all my hair up into a Dutch braid or crown braid. This high crown braid is my favourite.
I can almost braid with my eyes closed now but it wasn’t always that way. I taught myself how to braid and started with simple styles like this. Keep practising until you feel comfortable with a style before trying a new one. Before you know it, you’ll have a whole hair-drobe of hairstyles you can do in minutes.
In today’s video, I share 5 quick tips for braiding curly hair and an easy tutorial for this half-up braid. And yes, that hairbrush is my microphone!
Tips for braiding curly hair (plus a quick tutorial!)
Click here if you can’t see the video
If you prefer to see a photo tutorial, this braid is similar to this half-up braid tutorial.
I really hope you enjoy these videos! I’m posting a new video every week now. Please subscribe to my YouTube channel to see new videos as soon as they’re live.
I’d love to hear your tricks for braiding curly hair or let me know if you have any video requests!
The post Tips for braiding curly hair (plus a quick tutorial!) appeared first on Hair Romance.
from Hair Romance http://ift.tt/2doG0C6
Tips for braiding curly hair (plus a quick tutorial!)
If you're new around here, you may not know how much I love braids. I even wrote a book about braids!
Normally I do most of my braid tutorials in straight hair as it's easier to see the steps. It's also easier to recreate the styles exactly when I'm shooting tutorials.
In real life, I wear my natural curls a lot and you'll often find me wearing braids too. I like to wear a half-up braid style on day 2 or 3 while my curls look good out. After that, I will braid all my hair up into a Dutch braid or crown braid. This high crown braid is my favourite.
I can almost braid with my eyes closed now but it wasn't always that way. I taught myself how to braid and started with simple styles like this. Keep practising until you feel comfortable with a style before trying a new one. Before you know it, you'll have a whole hair-drobe of hairstyles you can do in minutes.
In today's video, I share 5 quick tips for braiding curly hair and an easy tutorial for this half-up braid. And yes, that hairbrush is my microphone!
Tips for braiding curly hair (plus a quick tutorial!)
Click here if you can't see the video
If you prefer to see a photo tutorial, this braid is similar to this half-up braid tutorial.
I really hope you enjoy these videos! I'm posting a new video every week now. Please subscribe to my YouTube channel to see new videos as soon as they're live.
I'd love to hear your tricks for braiding curly hair or let me know if you have any video requests!
The post Tips for braiding curly hair (plus a quick tutorial!) appeared first on Hair Romance.
from Hair Romance http://ift.tt/2doG0C6
IndieView with Amy Rivers, author of Wallflower Blooming
When reality provides me with such interesting experiences, it's hard to find a reason to reach too far outside the things I know.
Amy Rivers – 29 September 2016
The Back Flap
Val's intentionally quiet life is disrupted when she decides to help her cousin Gwen win a contentious election. The stress of the campaign and personal attacks by the opposition, leave Val shaken. And as if that weren't complicated enough, Val finds herself falling in love.
About the book
What is the book about?
Wallflower Blooming is the story of Val Shakely, a woman in her 30's who runs her own public relations firm in Colorado. Val shies away from controversy, preferring to stay in the background, both personally and professionally. Her only close relative, her cousin Gwen Marsh, is the opposite. She's involved in local politics and plans to run for mayor against the incumbent, a political bully named Roger Barton. Gwen convinces Val to help with her campaign, despite Val's reservations. From the beginning, Val is confronted with things that make her wonder whether she'll make it through the election, including the prospect of a new romance. At its heart, Wallflower Blooming is a story of Val's growth as she navigates the waters of politics, friendship, family and true love.
When did you start writing the book?
I started the book in the fall of 2014. I had the idea and decided to use NaNoWriMo as a springboard for getting the first draft done.
How long did it take you to write it?
I finished the first draft in one month, writing full time. It took a lot longer to polish.
Where did you get the idea from?
For a few years, I ran an online news website in my hometown and we covered local elections and city commission meetings. I studied politics in college and have always been interested in the process. Working with the local politicians made me much more aware of how personalities and competing interests can effect elections and political policy. At the same time, I also became very passionate about women's issues so the book was a natural progression from those experiences.
Were there any parts of the book where you struggled?
My original plan for the book was much darker than the finished product. I realized that my relationship with my characters was forcing me to make different decisions about the direction of the story. That took some getting used to.
What came easily?
Writing Val Shakely. She reminds me of so many people I know. She's timid but also fierce given the right circumstances. She's smart and sassy, but she struggles with her own set of demons: family, relationships, self-confidence. It was easy to write Val because to me she represents all the most wonderful things about women, even if those traits are sometimes a little confounding.
Are your characters entirely fictitious or have you borrowed from real world people you know?
I'm not sure I'm capable of writing an entirely fictitious character. My characters are amalgamations of a variety of people, both real and fictitious. They embody a lot of different traits from a variety of different sources. When reality provides me with such interesting experiences, it's hard to find a reason to reach too far outside the things I know.
We all know how important it is for writers to read. Are there any particular authors that have influenced how you write and, if so, how have they influenced you?
So, so many. I've been a huge reader since I was a child. Our library's summer reading program was the major entertainment growing up and I loved to lose myself in books. I read a lot more fantasy and adventure books back then. As a teenager, I was more interested in realistic stories. And as an adult, I find myself drawn to characters that I can adore and agonize with. I want to be all tangled up emotionally with the characters I'm reading. I also love reading books by authors I know. It's interesting to me to read their works in the context of what I know about their lives.
Do you have a target reader?
I write about women and I write primarily for women, though I'd like to think that my male readers will find things to love in my books.
About Writing
Do you have a writing process? If so can you please describe it?
My writing process starts with brainstorming. I like to spend several hours over the course of a few days or weeks talking through the story as I see it and asking myself "why would they do that." After I feel like I've got a good overall picture of the story, I start to write with the goal of getting it all on paper as quickly as possible.
Do you outline? If so, do you do so extensively or just chapter headings and a couple of sentences?
I do some minimal outlining, but I tend to change things as I go so I try to limit my physical outlining on a chapter-by-chapter basis. While I have an idea of the overall structure of the book, as my characters develop, things often go a different direction than I'd originally planned.
Do you edit as you go or wait until you've finished?
I wait until the draft is complete before editing, and then my editing/revision process goes in phases with beta readers and editors built in at varying parts of the process.
Do you listen to music while you write? If yes, what gets the fingers tapping?
I am a Golden Girls fanatic, so most of the time I have reruns playing in the background as I write. From time to time, I switch to music. My tastes vary wildly based on my mood, so one day I might listen to Tracy Chapmen and the next to The Offspring.
About Publishing
Did you submit your work to Agents?
I spent about a year submitting my novel to agents. I received several manuscript requests but never an offer of representation. However, with only one exception, the feedback I received from agents was very specific and positive. Having come from a marketing background, and based on this positive feedback, I decided to self-publish.
What made you decide to go Indie, whether self-publishing or with an indie publisher? Was it a particular event or a gradual process?
Because I have experience in marketing and promotion, I wasn't afraid to self-publish. I knew it would be a lot of hard work, but I went forward with the hope of building a readership. My efforts were recognized by a small publisher in my region, and my debut novel was picked up for re-release under their imprint. Now I'm working on the second book in the series with the same publisher.
Did you get your book cover professionally done or did you do it yourself?
I designed the cover myself and when I signed with my publisher, they revised it a bit but the basic design remained the same.
Do you have a marketing plan for the book or are you just winging it?
I have a marketing plan for my book that includes book sales, building a foundation for future books in the series and creating a fan base for my work. My plan relies largely on social media, but I have also done advertising and author events to promote the book. As a new author, my plan has evolved based on experience, time and budget. As with any other business, I think its important for authors to keep records on their marketing efforts so they can see which actions are effective and which are not.
Any advice that you would like to give to other newbies considering becoming Indie authors?
Know what you're getting yourself into. Being an indie author is a lot of work, but there are some great payoffs including greater control over the promotion of your work. As much as we'd all just like to write without having to deal with the business side of things, indie authors just don't have the luxury. So, know what you're signing up for. If you're self-publishing, make sure you understand the costs and time that will be involved in not only publishing the book but also promoting it. If you work with a small publisher, know what they will be responsible for and what you will be responsible for. It's a partnership, so be prepared to be a fully committed participant, knowing all the in's and out's.
About You
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in a small desert town in Southern New Mexico, where some of my favorite things include the smell of rain, thunderstorms, sunsets and green chili.
Where do you live now?
I recently moved to Colorado with my family. I live in the farmland of east Boulder County and it's pretty much the perfect place to write. The landscape is beautiful and we've got great access to food, shopping and amazing programs and opportunities. Love it!
What would you like readers to know about you?
I am a voracious reader and I'm always looking for good book recommendations. I come from a musical family (my parents are folk musicians), so I love to sing and am teaching myself to play the ukulele. And, as previously mentioned, I adore the Golden Girls. I'm a mother, a wife, a volunteer, an activist, a writer, a singer, and a pretty darned good cook. I intend to continue living my life with passion and compassion.
What are you working on now?
I am working on the follow-up to Wallflower Blooming, which will center around the life and times of Val's cousin Gwen Marsh, the new mayor of Cambria. I'm also starting research for a psychological thriller I'll be writing. I'm also a regular contributor at ESME.com and Novelty Bride Magazine regularly.
End of Interview:
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