Thank You, Europe

Hello all,

I apologize I haven’t been posting lately, but the Hubby and I have been mad busy getting ready for our move to Guam (yes, you read that right)! Talk about a big transition!

Since we are visiting family in the Midwest en route, my luggage is quite eccentric. I’ve got boots and flip flops; maxi sundresses and fluffy pullovers. With the temps barely hovering over the zero mark back home, I will be the Layering Queen!

Living in Germany has been an amazing, a wonderful adventure. Never did I think I’d get to experience Paris THREE times, show the wonders of Greek life to my hubby, walk inside the Roman Coliseum, and ride a gondola in Venice. Along the way I got to rock some fierce fashions, and so I thought I’d share my favorite looks in favorite places.:)

Venice.

Kindsbach, Germany

Ready to take Rome at night!

Milan.

At Notre Dame, Paris.

Trier, Germany

Luxenbourg

Though I’ll be trading in my moto jackets and leggings for more sundresses and shorts, I pledge to keep taking fashion risks and working my curves, no matter where I go.

Here’s to a new adventure!

Love, laughter, and shoes –

xx Melanie.

Ready for a New Adventure

Guten Tag, everyone!

How was your weekend? A few days ago, it was a little warmer than usual so I was able to do some outdoor pics for a change. We have this lovely country area around where we live, and it’s perfect for going on long walks.

As I strutted, twirled, and played Supermodel, I realized that very soon we would be leaving Germany. As much I am looking forward to our next adventure (in GUAM!), I’ve become attached to the culture, the friends I’ve made, and this beautiful area.

We’ve been here almost four years, and it blows my mind how many countries and landmarks we’ve seen, the wonderful people who’ve come into our lives, and the opportunities I’ve gained as a performer.

Most of all, I’ve gained a greater sense of comfort about who I am. If I’m curvier or slimmer, it does not matter. I’m still fine.

And so, Germany – I thank you for the adventure. I will treasure these last few weeks, and the memories made.

And just a reminder….I’m giving away this Marilyn Monroe wallet! Giveaway ends soon, so good luck!

Love, laughter and shoes –

xx Melanie.

WHAT I WORE:

Boyfriend Jacket – CHARLOTTE RUSSE

Dress – PRIMARK

Leggings – FOREVER 21 PLUS

Earrings – BIJOU BRIGITTE

Bracelet – gift from hubby:)

2015 – Celebrating Who YOU Are!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Did you have a fun filled crazy celebration, or did you keep things more low key? Are you waking up with the “holy God, why did I drink all that Long Island tea and champagne” feeling?

No? Oh, well yes- that is me! HA!

Anyway, here’s to a brand new year. As we close out 2014, I’d like to offer a wish for all of us to begin 2015. Let’s enjoy ourselves more!

Oh the tasty gluhwein!

Every year, there is a big push to “fix ourselves.” On just about every advertisement or magazine this month, we will be promised that “this is the year to get fit,” or “get a bikini body,” so we sign up for gym memberships and hope that THIS time we’ll make it happen.

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with getting healthier. However, shouldn’t we enjoy who and what we are NOW, versus waiting to be happy?

New Victoria’s Secret sweatshirt! So cozy!

So, yes – start a new fitness program. Stop smoking. Be kinder. Save money. Chase a new interest. Whatever it is you want to do this year, DO IT. And have FUN while doing it!

On another note…

Thank you all for reading and commenting on my blog this past year! I really appreciate all the likes, follows, shares, and comments. I’m excited about what’s to come this year, and you lovelies can expect many more giveaways!!

Cheers!

Love, laughter, and shoes –

xx Melanie.

Oh the Weather Outside is Not Exactly Frightful…

Merry Christmas, or Frohe Weihnachten, as they say here in Germany!

It’s Christmas Eve, but you wouldn’t know it except for the decorations around town. Germany is in a week long stretch of GRAY skies and RAIN. Not so pretty! Normally, I’m not a huge fan of snow, but it would be nice to see something glittery white for Christmas morning!

Despite the grayness, it is mild enough to still rock some fall styles. This denim jacket from SWAK Designs is actually quite soft, and how refreshing it is to get a jacket that fits comfortably when buttoned up around the bust! You busty gals know what I’m talking about. It’s tricky to find something that doesn’t make you look like a box!

Forever 21 Plus leggings and skirt, Just Fab boots.

I’ve discovered a new site to obsess over – Sephora! How many of you have ordered beauty products from them? THREE FREE SAMPLES with an order? Plus when I bought just $30 in product, they threw in ANOTHER sample. Speaking of product…

Josie Maran Argan Oil for Face has CHANGED my skin. I only use a little bit all over after cleansing, and my face has never been softer or glowier, EVER. This may be oil, but I don’t feel greasy and no breakouts at all! Check out my skin – I am wearing just a little CC cream as foundation:)

Not bad for a 40 something chick, hmm?

I hope you enjoy your holiday, and blessings to all of you. I will share in a few days what Santa brought me…so excited! Hope you share your surprises as well!

Love, laughter, and shoes –

xx Melanie.

Working It, Holiday Style

Hello and Happy Holidays!
I apologize for not blogging lately, but last week was CRAZY busy! The Hubby finished a class, my vocal students gave a terrific vocal recital, we started sorting out items for moving, AND we went to the Hubby’s Christmas party! Lots of activity going on, to say the least!
Let me tell you about this Christmas party. The invite said “business casual,” but as you can see, people turned it out! Even the guys were weeerking it!
One of my favorite looks of the evening was this Jackie O inspired dress and hat! LOVE IT!

I say these two fine gentlemen make the “Man of Style” section! Check out the kilts!

Of course, I can’t leave out my own Man of Style. The Hubby looks sharp in his black Express shirt and hot red tie! I kept it more simple in my INC sweater tunic and H&M faux leather skirt. I got to debut my new rhinestone earrings by Bijou Brigitte (a bargain buy at 4 euro!).

Are you done with your holiday preparations? Ha, I am so not! Still tree to put up (yep, a slacker) and a few gifts to buy.

However, I hope not to be slacking on future posts! I’ve got a number of new beauty products to try out and review this week, so stay tuned!

Love, laughter, and shoes –

xx Melanie.

Cozy Comforts and Cyber Monday Madness!

Hello all!

So, I admit it: I’m not a huge fan of cold weather. Though I’m originally from Michigan, I just could not get into skiing, snowmobiling, or any kind of cold weather sport. However, I do enjoy wrapping myself up in a cozy sweater and drinking some coffee with Kahlua!

As some of you curvy gals know, sometimes it’s hard to find sweaters that don’t add bulk or offer no shape. However, I found this great sweater dress from H&M which works with leggings, tights, or skinny jeans!

Relaxing at the Edelweiss Resort in Bavaria.

I recently got these cute Forever 21 booties. They’re very comfortable and go with so many looks!

Here’s some chic sweater dresses from H&M in straight and plus sizes! Both are under $35.

Yay for cute and warm affordable clothes!

Did you do any shopping on Cyber Monday? I got all my hubby’s shopping done, and I ordered items through my Ebates account. What’s Ebates? Only the most awesome way to shop online! Just sign up, select a retailer, and shop! You can earn anywhere from 1-18% CASH BACK from your shopping trip! I am getting over $17 back (so far!). Sign up, save with coupons, and earn $!

Click here! http://www.ebates.com/rf.do?referrerid=YQvuaf2PAQvnIFOicHk9Qg%3D%3D&eeid=26471

By the way, fashionistas – you get referrals for others who sign up! When a friend signs up and makes a shopping trip, YOU GET $25 back! Oh yeah!

I’m all about getting a little more green during the holidays – how about you?!!!!

Until next time, stay warm and enjoy some tasty hot beverage:)

Love, laughter, and shoes –

xx Melanie.

What I’m Wearing:

Sweater Dress – H&M

Leggings – FOREVER 21 PLUS

Booties – FOREVER 21

Scarf – KOHL’S

Thankful for Travel, Thrift Finds, and Beer!

Hello lovelies!

Back home, it’s Thanksgiving and a time for being thankful for all the blessings we have. I am very thankful to have the opportunity to travel while here in Europe, and since it’s our last Thanksgiving in Germany, we decided to head to one of our favorite places to stay, the Edelweiss Resort in Bavaria.

It’s like a storybook location!

You know the “Sound of Music?” This area is where Julie Andrews was spinning around and singing about the hills being alive! Though there wasn’t any snow (which is a bit unusual this time of year), the view is still gorgeous.

The town of Garmisch is adorable with many unique shops and cozy cafes. Though it’s mainly a U.S. tradition, Germany has jumped on the Black Friday train (though they are more sane about it – no 4 a.m. openings here!). However, I discovered a thrift store on an army base and got this comfy and stylish sweatshirt dress for just $5!

My $5 find!

Check out the cool little details on the pocket! The shoulders have faux leather patches. Looks great with my H&M skirt and Just Fab boots!

What else do I love? German beer! Especially when I can go on a brewery tour and taste many different kinds! The hubby and I got to sample all kinds of beer, even one with a chocolate base (Don’t worry; we had someone drive us)! Wolfgang, the brew master, presented us with honorary Brew Master diplomas!

Why sure, I’ll try another kind…

On a more serious note, I am incredibly thankful for all the love and blessings in my life. Life can be very tough at times (and I have had my share of those moments), so when life is peaceful, I enjoy every bit of those moments.

I am also very thankful to all of YOU for reading my blog! I really appreciate the “likes,” comments, and sharing. Here’s to all of the blessings we enjoy!

Cheers!

Sweater Weather!

Brrr! It looks like Fall is in full mode now in Germany. As much as I am missing the warm days, I do enjoy wearing fall fashion!
Today I got to debut my new cozy sweater from Forever 21 Plus. It’s soooo soft! Paired with my faux A line skirt, leggings, and new Just Fab boots, I’m ready to face the chillier days.

Love the detail on the back of these!

Do you love nail art? Before moving over here, I hardly ever painted my fingernails. But once I got turned on to gel nails, I never looked back! I love that I can have nice looking nails for weeks! No chipping or breaks!

Sparkly, sparkly!

I am ready to wrap up in a blanket and enjoy gluwein (a heated wine)! Stay warm, all!

Love, laughter, and shoes –

xx Melanie

Cross Fingers and Break a Leg!

Guten Morgen! Wie geht’s?

It’s another balmy German morning, and it’s an early day for me. A play I’ve directed, a one act called “Interview,” is going to compete this weekend at the 2014 US Army Europe Festival of One Act Plays! Tonight is our last rehearsal for final “tweaking” before performing on Saturday, and then Sunday we’ll see if we win some awards!

It’s been a very busy few weeks, to say the least. We opened our play last weekend, I taught a Musical Theatre workshop Tuesday night, I have my usual vocal teaching schedule, I’m ushering tomorrow for the Festival (plus loading in our set), plus all the festival events this weekend…whew! No rest for the wicked, as they say!

I’ve been so busy, that I forgot about these pics the Hubby took of me during our trip to Luxembourg a month back! It still blows my mind that it only took an hour and a half to drive to another country! Luxembourg is definitely tiny, but a very pretty area. The people speak French, German, and English, so communication was very easy. I definitely enjoyed seeing shops by Marina Rinaldi, Prada, Dolce & Gabbana, and Versace!

Drool.

Shiny things!

But alas, my budget only allows for window shopping! However, I could still look fierce while drooling!

Loving my new faux leather skater skirt from Forever 21 Plus! Love it? Buy it here.

Who says gray is boring? Toughen it with a moto jacket!

With a little luck, the next time I write a post, I’ll be showing off some trophies! Hope you all have a wonderful weekend, and DON’T FORGET TO ENTER MY GIVEAWAY! One lucky winner is going to LOVE wearing a necklace from Origami Owl!

Just click on my giveaway banner to the left!

Until next time!

Love, laughter, and shoes-

xx Melanie.

Modcloth is Marvelous! Plus, October’s Giveaway!

Happy October! It may be fall, but it has been unseasonably warm here in Germany! Lucky for me, I am still able to wear some new summer styles, and I am LOVING this romper from Modcloth!

Modcloth’s vintage inspired looks have a timeless feel, and this romper is no exception. I’m pretty sure I’ll wear this for a long time, and once Fall does decide to come, I’ll add tights, boots, and a long cardigan!

Here, I added a pair of vintage Italian heels from the 1960s. These belonged to my mom!

This has pockets!!

So…WHO IS READY TO WIN?

Kelly Hurley, who is a designer for Origami Owl, is giving away this awesome necklace for one lucky winner!

I love the shoe!

This giveaway goes from Oct 7 until Oct 31th, and there’s plenty of ways to enter! Click on the “Rafflecopter” link on the left.

And, it’s an INTERNATIONAL giveaway!!!

Good luck!

Love, laughter, and shoes…

xx Melanie.

The Divine Mz M

Living life as a curvy goddess, without apologies.

Tag Archives: Germany

Thank You, Europe

Ready for a New Adventure

2015 – Celebrating Who YOU Are!

Oh the Weather Outside is Not Exactly Frightful…

Working It, Holiday Style

Cozy Comforts and Cyber Monday Madness!

Thankful for Travel, Thrift Finds, and Beer!

Sweater Weather!

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