Music Therapy with Miss Moon

" You can cut all the flowers but you cannot keep spring from coming."
~ Pablo Neruda

" Spring has returned. The Earth is like a child that knows poems."
~ Rainer Maria Rilke

" If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant; if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome."
~ Anne Bradstreet

There are times, where I wish I lived in a part of the world that had constant sunshine, year-round warmth. I can imagine living someplace where I can go lie on the beach in February, never have to trek to the subway in the snow, and never ever have to feel that awful chill to the bones one feels when its frigid out.

But the truth of the matter is, how else would we enjoy and appreciate the spring without the winter? And it's just like appreciating moments of peace without struggle.

So for this week's Music Therapy with Miss Moon, I have chosen a classic tune from the great Bob Marley to celebrate the arrival of Spring. I hope you all will enjoy "Sun Is Shining".

Sun is shining, the weather is sweet

Make you want to move your dancing feet

To the rescue, here i am

Want you to know, y'all, where i stand

(monday morning) here i am

Want you to know just if you can

(tuesday evening) where i stand

(wenesday morning)

Tell myself a new day is rising

(thursday evening) get on the rise

A new day is dawning

(friday morning) here i am

(saturday evening) want you to know just

Want you to know just where i stand

When the morning gathers the rainbow

Want you to know i'm a rainbow too

So, to the rescue here i am

Want you to know just if you can

Where i stand, know, know, know, know, know

We'll lift our heads and give jah praises

We'll lift our heads and give jah praises, yeah

Sun is shining, the weather is sweet

Make you want to move your dancing feet

To the rescue, here i am

Want you to know just if you can

Where i stand

(wenesday morning)

Tell myself a new day is rising

(thursday evening) get on the rise

A new day is dawning

(friday morning) here i am

(saturday evening) want you to know just

Want you to know just where i stand

When the morning gathers the rainbow

Want you to know i'm a rainbow too

So to the rescue, here i am

Want you to know just if you can

Where i stand, know, know, know, know, know

We'll lift our heads and give jah praises (repeat)

Sun is shining, the weather is sweet

Make you want to move your dancing feet

To the rescue, here i am

Want you to know just if you can

Where i stand, no, no, no, no, where i stand

Sun is shining, sun is shining

Miss Moon's Musing About: My Five Spring Must-Haves for 2012!!

Spring has officially sprung across the globe, and although I'm (unfortunately!) still unemployed, that doesn't mean there aren't items on my "To Buy" list! Spring essentials, if you will, that would definitely make my days brighter! So let's get right down to it, y'all!!!

First up on my list is a two-fer (So yes, it's being counted as one!) courtesy of Simply Be. I LOVE this outfit! I think it is very, very "Audrey Hepburn discovers Color Blocking".. which I think makes for an AWESOME combination! I love the Tipped Shirt, which I can totally see rocking on a job interview, and then wearing it with the Color Jeans in Wine (as pictured) on the first day of work! LOL Speaking of colored jeans...

I have two pairs of skinny jeans, which I love, but are both way too big on me now (First sign that Miss Moon's Getting Healthy? Could be...). I think I am definitely in need of an upgrade, and since it's all about vibrant, jewel toned colors... why not rock some colorful skinny jeans? I'm am really diggin' these Colored Slim Leg Jeans from The Avenue. Blue is my favorite color, and I can see myself rocking these jeans with loads of different combinations... including with the Tipped Shirt I just mentioned!

I know it doesn't seem like it here in NYC, what with the 80 degree(!!) weather and all, but April showers do indeed bring May flowers. Spring is definitely the time to invest in a good jacket to wear over your clothes. And for me, I always try to pick a simple black one that I can jazz up with a funky spring scarf. My pick is the Women's Plus Short Trench Coat by Old Navy, which is my go to place for savings and style with savoir faire. (I swear, if this blog had a drinking game... it would be take a shot every time I went the alliteration route! lol)

I've mentioned before that I've adopted a fitness routine that includes walking for an hour a day 5-6 days a week. I've recently upped the stakes and walk twice a day, giving me essentially two hours of exercise each day that I do it. A lot of the time I walk and listen to music that motivates me to keep going. Recent favorites have been "Radio" from the hit Broadway show Memphis, "Tortoise and The Hare" by the amazing Jazzyfatnastees, and (Don't judge me) "Did it On 'Em'" by Nicki Minaj. Yes, I have a very eclectic taste in music! LOL

But the number one song that I play during my walks is "The Woman Who" by the beautiful Lamya (who left this Earth way too soon!), which is such an amazing song about, well, the woman who changes her life, makes her dreams come true, and lives happily ever after... wearing her "red magic shoes", as the lyrics say. Which of course, is my motivation for getting the Converse Ox sneakers in Cinnabar. This item is one I've actually purchased and am currently waiting to receive. I am well on my path to bettering myself, but I'm certain a pair of red magic shoes will help me travel the course in style! :)

This last item is obviously a "when I get my first paycheck" purchase, unless I hit lotto (which I don't play, so it's unlikely) or some rich person stumbles across this blog and goes "Hey! I like this plucky gal's style, I'm going to buy this bag for her!" (Which is equally as unlikely! LOL), but I am madly in love with this Fiorelli Large Havana Satchel from Asos, so hopefully it will still be in stock when my finances are. LOL

What has caught your eye and is on your list of Spring Must-Haves? Leave a comment with the items you're most excited about (Links would be great, too!)

Be Blessed: (Semi) Silent Sunday - Part One

It's the very first day of May, and I always get super excited about this: the weather here in NYC gets a little warmer, and we finally embrace a more Spring-like environment.

Inspired by many many Bloggers who have incorporated Silent Sundays into their Blog postings (Most notably, Brittany from Clumps of Mascara), I thought it might be fun to incorporate such postings into Miss Moon's Musings for the month of May.

I love finding inspirational quotes and food for thought each week for my "Best Blessed" series of posts, and I wouldn't want to not do that for a month. Hence, Semi-Silent Sundays! LOL

The next few weeks in May, each Sunday will have a picture I've taken myself, accompanied with an inspirational quote. I hope you all will enjoy!



“ Expect to have hope rekindled. Expect your prayers to be answered in wondrous ways. The dry seasons in life do not last. The spring rains will come again.”


~ Sarah Ban Breathnach

::drools:: Sweet Spring Dresses (And Skirts!!)

One of my favorite things about spring (Hey, that kinda rhymed! lol) is that the warmer weather begs for me to chuck my pants aside for a spell and rock dresses. I loooooove dresses. Funny thing is, I used to love skirts equally, but I haven't worn one in ages. This spring I've been inspired to reclaim my love of skirts.

I've assembled a group of dresses and skirts that I think are perfect for Spring. Enjoy!!


Clockwise, from left:

Women's Plus Braid-Trim Jersey Maxi Dresses ($42.94, Old Navy)
Women's Plus Tiered Floral-Print Skirts ($32.94, Old Navy)
Floral Surplice Dress ($22.80, Forever 21)
Floral Print Dress ($65.00, Simply Be)
Exclusive Vintage Print Sweetheart Neck Dress ($62.76, Asos)
High Waist Flare Skirt ($110.00, Jibri)

I've been obsessed with the High Waist Flare Skirt from Jibri ever since I saw Chastity Garner from The Curvy Girl's Guide to Style rocking it in her amazing blog. I'm on a serious budget right now, but I am saving up to get one. It may not be for the spring, but I will be rocking this come summer, quote me on that!! LOL

Will you be rocking dresses and skirts now that the weather's getting warmer. Where are you shopping?!?!?

Miss Moon's Musing About: Rethinking Pink for Spring!!!

When perusing my closet, one color that is in slight supply is pink. Truth be told, I have never been a super huge fan of the color. Of course, I had my Eva Joia moments when I was a kid in the 80s (Major cool points if you know what that is! LOL), but as an adult... I haven't worn much pink in my everyday looks.

Ever since I've been wearing Spitfire, from M∙A∙C's Wonder Woman Collection, I've been more and more drawn to the pink and all the similar shades (magenta, fuchsia, etc.) and have decided to give myself some much-needed pizazz for Spring by incorporating some pink into my life. Here are a few options that will be sure to brighten your wardrobe AND your day!!



#1 - Round the Lock Carnation Pink Purse ($39.00, Lulu's)
#2 - Floral and Paisley Lurex Square Scarf in Pink ($20.00, Urban Outfitters)
#3 - Revlon Superlustrous Lipstick in Fuchsia Fusion (14.95, Amazon.com)
#4 - Silver and Fuchsia Bangle Set ($12.50, Torrid)
#5 - Sinful Colors Nail Polish Oasis ($2.50, Sinful Color)

Last but certainly not least... if I am feeling bold, I would definitely consider:

#6 - Avenue Textured Dot Dress ($64.90, One Stop Plus)

Are you thinking pink for spring?!?!?

Miss Moon's Musing About: My Top Five Spring Essentials!!

Although the weather in New York City may not be reflecting it, Spring is smack dab on the horizon and I am sure I am not the only one who's saying "Get here, already!!!!" LOL To usher in the change of season, I decided to make a list of my must-haves for Spring 2011



This year I decided not to submit to the PayLess version of Chuck Taylors (Which are dope, no jive!) for the real Mc-Chucks!!! I haven't pinpointed which colors I want, but for $39.50 at Delia*s, I may get two!!!



I've been obsessed with this dress (The aptly named "Audrey"!) from Kenema & Co., and I think that in order for me to get one in my size, I am going to have to have one made, though I plan on contacting the company first to see if they'd be willing to hook a sistah up!



For Spring, I keep gravitating to super bright and super dark shades.. and I cannot wait to rock these babies on my fingers and toes -

Top (Left to Right): Jamaica Me Crazy (Essie), Dead Calm (Rescue Beauty), Desire (Drs Remedy)

Bottom (Left to Right): Slushied (O.P.I. Sephora Glee Collection), Bachelorette Bash (Essie), Happy Go Lucky (China Glaze)



I've been really looking forward to trying a Roller Set for the spring (I wouldn't dare apply heat to my head during the winter!), and this nifty set from Conair is a great place to start!!



Here's the deal with this stuff... it is my CRAAAAAAAACCK!!!! I want to be cocooned in this scent 24/7/365.. It's soft and sultry and just a perfect scent for spring. Not to mention that this shea goodiness is ultra moisturizing (what better way to combat winter ash!!!)

What's your YOUR list for Spring?!?! Do tell, do tell!!!

Be Blessed: Spring Renewal

"An optimist is the human personification of spring."
-- Susan J. Bissonette

What is it about Spring that suddenly reminds us that everything wonderful in life is possible? Looking at the trees in Brooklyn, which were bare all Winter, suddenly becoming green and full again, I see that life too can feel stark and stripped bare at times, and lush and full again.

It's comforting to think that when life seems bleak and without hope, as Spring returns, so can opportunity and good fortune. Everything has a season, and without the winter months, we could never truly appreciate the blossoming the blooming of spring.


Photo of Brooklyn during Spring

From The Daily Om:

An Astounding Affirmation
Springtime

Spring comes when the earth, coaxed by lengthening days and warmer temperatures, begins to awaken from her winter slumber. She stretches open to receive the rain that gives drink to flower buds and seedlings. She takes a deep breath, and on her exhale the leaves on trees unfurl like tiny flags heralding her revival as baby animals tumble forth, trumpeting the good news to all who will listen. Rebirth and repopulation fill the void of winter with flurry and fury as what appeared to be gone forever comes into being once again. Even though it happens this way every year, we stand in awe, our insides trembling sweetly like the legs of a new foal as we too are reborn.

This is when we fall in love, again, speak without thinking, say yes to things we would normally refuse. It becomes more difficult to say no when the whole world around us appears to be an astounding affirmation of the resilience, richness, and plain, perfect beauty of life. We may find ourselves feeling several years younger and 10 pounds lighter without changing a thing. We may feel the urge to cleanse our bodies with a new pattern of eating, clearing our kitchens of cold-weather comfort foods and filling them instead with lighter fare and fresh fruits and vegetables. We may clear our closets of old clothes or cut our hair to express a new facet of who we are, and who we might become.

Springtime inspires us to believe that, along with the earth, we too might change, release the past, and give birth to new ideas, new relationships, and new perspectives. In honor of spring, we could make a list of the many possibilities we envision for the future and bury it in the earth, surrendering the fertile seeds of our imaginations to the nurturing soil. In tune with the season, we can then watch in wonder as the last of the snow dissolves into the rich brown earth, and stark winter gives way to green possibility.

This week, I will bask in all the traces of Spring around me and within me!

Peace from Brooklyn!


Brooklyn During Spring

:::drools::: Sweet Spring Dresses!!!

Although we are several months away until Spring (Damn you, Punxsutawney Phil!), I've been checking out Spring fashions with excitement at the thought of warmer weather. This will be a new fashion blog for me, as I will be showcasing dresses in all sizes! Enjoy and remember... try to drool AWAY from your keyboard! lol



















Alyssa Shirt Dress ($44.50, Delia*s)

I love this dress for it's simplicity!! Swiss-dot cap-sleeved shirt dress with shirring and button detail. Be sure to check it out in Purple and Teal!!!!



Mlle Gabrielle Daffodil Dress ($39.00, Alight)

This dress is SOOOOOOOO on my "to buy" list for the Spring! Surplice neck runs into empire smocked elastic waistband. Lined.



Boho Dress ($79.20, ShopBop.com)

I am loving this gorgeous asymmetrical maxi dress. I'm actually jealous of my slimmer sistren because this is not in my size! LOL


















 Denim Puff-Sleeved Dress ($48.00, Torrid)

I call these "Weekday Dresses": Nice enough to wear to work and cute enough to wear After 5 pm.

SIDE NOTE: I am not obsessed, but I am little bit dorky about this Torrid model. She is pretty much my weight loss and hair growth goal in human form! lol

And I love this last dress primarily because it comes in sizes XS through XXXL.... so my girls big and small can rock this!




























Embroidered Empire-Waist Dress ($39.90 - $41.90, Alloy)

This is number two on my "Must Buy" list.. I'd like to get them in two of the three colors this dress comes in (Black, Ivory, & Purple)

Music Therapy with Miss Moon

Today the City was flirtatious with a hint of Spring in the air. It immediately evoked days to come where you can rock denim jackets and umbrellas... A time when the air smells all fertile and heavy with rain. With that inspiration and what's to come on the horizon, I bring you a little "Love Rain"... Courtesy of Mos Def and Jill Scott! Enjoy!

[Jill Scott]
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me

Met him on a Thursday, sunny afternoon
Cumulus clouds, 84 degrees
He was brown, deep
Said he wanted to talk about my mission
Listen to my past lives. (Word?)
Took me on long walks to places where butterflies rest easy
Talked about Moses and Mumia
Reparations, blue colors, memories of shell-topped Adidas
He was fresh, like summer peaches
Sweet on my mind like block parties and penny candy
Us was nice and warm, no jacket, no umbrella, just warm
At night we would watch the stars
And he would physically give me each and every one
I felt like cayenne pepper, red, hot, spicy
I felt dizzy and so near heaven and miles between my thighs
Better than love, we made delicious
He me had, had me he
He had me tongue tied
I could hear his rhythm in my thoughts
I was his sharp, his horn section
His boom and his bip
And he was my love

Love rain down on me, on me, down on me

The rain was fallin' and, and slowly and sweetly and stinging my eyes
And I could not see that he became my voodoo priest
And I was his faithful concubine
Wide open, wide, loose like bowels after collard greens
The mistake was made
Love slipped from my lips
Dripped down my chin and landed in his lap
And us became new
Now me non-clarivoyant and in love
Made the coochie easy and the obvious invisible
The rain was falling
And I couldn't see the season changing
And the vibe slipping off it's axis
Our beautiful melody became wildly staccato
(Repeat 1 in background)
The rain was falling and I could not see
That I was to be plowed and sowed and fertilized
And left to drown in his sunny afternoon
Cumulus clouds, 84 degrees, melody

Love rain down on me, on me, down on me
Love rain down on me, on me, down on me

[Mos Def]
I stretched my arms towards the sky like blades of tall grass
The sun beat between my shoulders like carnival drums
I sat still in hopes that it would help my wings grow
So then I could really be fly
And then she arrived
Like day break inside a railway tunnel
Like the new moon, like a diamond in the mines
Like high noon to a drunkard, sudden
She made my heart beat in a now-now time signature
Her skinny canvas for ultraviolet brushstrokes
She was the sun's painting
She was a deep cognac color
Her eyes sparkled like lights along the new city
She lips pursed as if her breath was too sweet
And full for her mouth to hold
I said, "You are the beautiful, distress of mathematics."
I said, "For you, I would peel open the clouds like new fruit
And give you lightning and thunder as a dowry
I would make the sky shed all of it's stars like rain
And I would clasp the constellations across your waist
And I would make the heavens your cape
And they would be pleased to cover you
They would be pleased to cover you
May I please, cover you, please"