Fall Shoe Trends You're Gonna Love

Our favorite time of year is just a week away! The MAGIC tradeshow opens next Monday, August 15 in Las Vegas and we can’t wait to see what next season has in store. FN PLATFORM @ MAGIC is always a must-see show and this year is no different! The ultimate shoe show will have some amazing activations on the show floor including an appearance by shoe designer Chris Francis, who’s bringing his Los Angeles workshop to Sin City and an opening night performance by Wilson Phillips. Like years past, FN PLATFORM will showcase the latest and greatest in footwear by brands like Sperry Topsider, Oliberte, Vagabond, Havianas, among tons others. We had a chance to chat with our favorite shoe gal and UBM Fashion Group’s President of Footwear, Leslie Gallin, about all of the footwear trends we’ll be spotting in stores next season.

 

Here are Leslie’s top five footwear trends all fashionistas need to nab:

 

1.  MULES

Sometimes there’s a trend that’s so easy and cool, you can’t help but fall in with the crowd! This season, it’s the mule. The easy to wear and comfortable style has built a following with ‘it’ girls everywhere and is sticking around in the coming seasons. Its casual and chic aesthetic is making this a closet staple.

2. MID-HEELS

Arches rejoice! This sole soothing style is sticking around; not too high and not too low, shoe enthusiasts are loving this style because of its practicality and feminine appeal. Dressed up or down, mid-heels are totally wearable for every day.

3.  SNEAKERS/CREEPERS

Even the most daring of fashion-lovers may find this style hard to pull off. Drawing from punk and grunge themes, creepers add instant edge to a typically feminine outfit. Embrace the chunky style by pairing them with a feminine dress or skinny jeans.

4.  ANKLE STRAPS

Simple yet sultry, ankle strap styles offer sex appeal and versatility. Easily dressed up or down, this style can be seen on the streets just as easily as the red carpet.

5. BOOTIES

This fashion mainstay has been with us for a few seasons now and has no plans to depart anytime soon. Booties have become a trusty day-to-day staple easily translated between seasons. Update your ankle boot game with design details like buckles, embossed leather or a daring, colorful leather like red!

[disclaimer: I received compensation in exchange for this post.]

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Get the Look: Day-to-Night Style

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5 Short Steps To Get The Flapper Look

The flapper look brings to mind a very important time in history, and not only in fashion. Maybe you have a dress-up party in plans, or perhaps you want to stand out from the crowd a little more – no matter what your reason is, this original style is worth trying out! Women who are in search of an authentic flapper look often struggle to find the right items to complete their ensembles, but actually the process is much easier than they realize. You can find suitable clothes and accessories even in the most popular shops, such as Neiman Marcus, and spend less than you'd expect, thanks to special deals and coupons for them available at Discountrue.com. All you need is just a little bit of inventiveness and enthusiasm to turn your wardrobe into a 1920s homage!

Selecting The Right Dress

The dresses that defined the flapper era can be characterized in a variety of ways: they are typically knee length with dropped waistlines. While the top and bottom allow a woman to show some skin, the torso remains covered. There are also several common embellishments that can be added to create a more authentic look, including flowers, satin, lace, and fringes. The best part about flapper style dresses? They are designed to hide the curves of a woman, as opposed to exposing them, so they can be worn by any woman of any body type!

Choosing Shoes

When it comes to assembling the proper flapper look, shoes are one of the toughest aspects for women to get right, but those who do can take their outfits to the next level. Stilettos are a no-no, since they had not been invented yet. Medium chunky heels will work much better. Mary Jane shoes look great, especially those that have a t-bar buckle. When in doubt, choose any shoe that looks like something that you could go tap dancing in.

Headbands and Hats

To complete your look, you'll need to choose a hat or a headband. Cloche hats are the ones that are most commonly selected, but if you cannot locate one, a wide-brimmed hat will do the trick quite nicely. Crocheted skullcaps also add to the authenticity of the look and you can also use scarves and satin belts as makeshift headbands in a pinch. A feather makes for a great addition, as well.

Hairstyles

Women who already have a bob hairstyle are halfway there. Those who don't can find a bob wig at any number of online outlets, such as Amazon. If you'd like to choose a different hairstyle, the chignon is a great choice, as it allows you to create a ponytail at the nape of the neck. From there, simply twist your hair into a bun shape and pin it into place.

Added Accessories

To put the finishing touches on the flapper look, a string of pearls is always a fantastic choice. The longer the better, and be sure to ditch the dainty necklaces. Stockings can be worn, as long as they are rolled down to just below the knee. You can also go for knee-highs if they are rolled down a bit.

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post in which I received compensation. But, seriously. Love the flapper look. Right?

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The Top Five 2016 Spring Shoe Trends

MAGIC is less than a month away and some of our favorite fashion brands are prepping to showcase their fall 2016 collections, while fashionistas excitedly await. To kick-start the trend watch, we chatted with Leslie Gallin, President of Footwear at UBM Advanstar, on her favorite trends that will be making their way into stores in the upcoming seasons. Leslie curates the "shoe show" FN PLATFORM @ MAGIC and is the go-to footwear industry insider, having been in the footwear business for years and nurturing some of today’s most established footwear brands.

If you’re heading to MAGIC this February 16 to 18, be sure to check out some of the exciting show happenings like the live performance by Don Felder of The Eagles on opening night inside the FN Café at 6 pm. If you’re waiting on next season like the rest of us, be sure to follow @fnplatform and @wwdmagic on Instagram to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse on all of the latest this MAGIC.

Below are Leslie’s top 5 trend picks for 2016. To learn more about the show, please visit http://www.fnplatform.com/.

LESLIE GALLIN’S TOP 5 TRENDS:

Pastel Colors – When 2016’s Pantone color combo of the year was announced, fashionistas around the globe rejoiced! Pretty pastels will be translated throughout fashion – including footwear! The soft, ultra-feminine shades offer sophisticated elegance that isn’t too sugary sweet.

Monk Strap Styles – Monk strap styles are very much in their prime. The eye-catching detail walks the fine line of casual comfort and sharp formality. Popular in both men’s and women’s styles, say ‘goodbye!’ to lace-up’s, monk straps will be the shoe of the season.

Kitten Heels – In with the old and out with the new, grandma's heels are back! The kitten heel has been gaining popularity and style mavens have spoken by pairing comfort and sophistication in one. Paired with a cropped pair of trousers or skinny jeans, go ahead and channel your inner Audrey Hepburn!

Lug Soles – It’s no secret that the nineties are back in a big way! With that comes the industrial chic trend that was once reserves for hikers and construction workers. The lug sole has made its way into the fashion world thanks to design houses like Prada and Stella McCartney. Expect to see this style paired below heeled booties or oxfords in 2016.

Desert Boots – Dressed up or down, the desert boot is a classic, versatile option. Both streamlined and lightweight, it’s the perfect transitional piece for spring to fall. Worn by both men and women, this simple style will be seen throughout 2016.

About FN PLATFORM

FN PLATFORM is a joint venture of UBM Advanstar, Fairchild Fashion Group and Footwear News, and debuted in February 2010 under the direction of Leslie Gallin, President, Footwear for UBM Advanstar. FN PLATFORM is North America’s most influential footwear business forum - where the leaders and innovators converge to shape the industry, shop and sell shoes. Connecting the global fashion community at a single gathering, FN PLATFORM showcases the full spectrum of branded footwear — for men, women, juniors and children, across all categories, price points and trends. The carefully curated selections of established and emerging brands segmented into easy-to-navigate lifestyle neighborhoods offer attendees a comprehensive one-stop shop opportunity that cannot be found anywhere else in the world.   FN PLATFORM takes place during MAGIC from February 16 to 18, 2016 at The Las Vegas Convention Center, South Hall, Level 1. Learn more at http://www.fnplatform.com/.

Disclaimer: I received compensation in exchange for this review. 

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Do Women Really Need Botox to Look Great?

Gone are the days when Botox and other related cosmetic procedures were reserved for the housewives of Beverly Hills and A-list celebrities. Women have embraced plastic surgery to an extent that Botox injections have become the most common medical procedure in the United States. So if you’re still living in the dark ages where plastic surgery is the equivalent of dark magic I suggest you pay attention and get educated. The question we want to answer today is, "do women really need Botox to look great?" Hopefully by the end of this piece we will have come to an informed decision.

History
For over 20 years an American pharmaceutical company named Allergan has been producing a bacterium called “Clostridium botulinum” and packaging it as Botox. Patients are then injected with the liquid to treat both medical and cosmetic conditions. The liquid has the ability to relax underlying muscles and make wrinkle lines less deep. In this regard dermatologists recommend it for treating frown lines, wrinkles, nasal crunch lines and squint and smile lines. 

The Procedure
The Botox injections should be given by a highly-qualified medical practitioner, but many other medical practitioners such as nurses, dentists and general medics have a habit of offering the treatment on the side. It is illegal and they are not legally responsible for any side effects. The injection is administered on the affected area and should take no longer than 10 minutes. In addition, the injection is not painful and one can go back to work even 30 minutes after it is done. The effects will be seen after 72 hours although some patients take up to 7 days to see the full effect. The injection will last 3-6 months and most patients will average about 3 injections a year.

Now that we know the basics let us get down to the juicy part.

Who Can’t Get Botox?
Pregnant women, nursing mothers and those diagnosed with neuromuscular diseases should not have Botox administered. Additionally, anyone who is allergic to human albumin will resist any effects of the drug.

Now that we have identified who can’t enjoy the benefits of this mystic portion let us establish who can get Botox and whether it is of any benefit to them. The list is based on various age groups so as to make your decision more specific.

Teens
No teen should have any form of cosmetic surgery unless it is reconstructive or medically beneficial. As a teen your body is still maturing and you should find alternatives such as relaxing, eating better and exercise.

Early 20s
Some dermatologists have come up with the term “preventive Botox” in order to justify administering this treatment to young girls. They claim that they can use Botox to improve facial symmetry thereby reducing the need of other cosmetic treatments once the patient is older. It should however be noted that there are no medical studies to back up such claims. 

Mid 20s
Most people in this age bracket do not need Botox, but some are considered candidates for preventive Botox. Again it should be noted that cosmetic surgery at this age is unnecessary and no medical studies have proved them useful in any capacity. You’re better to relax, eat healthy and exercise. 

Late 20s
This is where most dermatologists can start predicating whether you should have some Botox done on you. Your skin has aged and Botox can help reverse or prevent some issues. Some of the biggest candidates include those who have had a lot of sun exposure, those who have exaggerated facial expressions, and squinters, frowners and eyebrow-raisers.

30s
Your 30s are apparently the best time to have preventive Botox that will save you some anguish in your later years. The treatment can be administered in a prophylactic way so as to ensure that you need less work done in your later years.

40s and Onward
Ask any dermatologist and they will admit that they are very few women who will not benefit from Botox at these advanced ages. It is only a matter of choice and preference. In fact, some of those who did not undertake preventive measures in their earlier years will have to do more than just Botox to reclaim their youthful features. 

Basically Botox is not necessary but one can enjoy all its benefits throughout their lifetime without suffering the side effects that the drug is so notorious for. 

Do women really need Botox to look great? No. Can Botox be administered in a structured way so as to ensure a woman avoids some of the downfalls of aging? Yes. The choice is now yours.


Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post and I received compensation in exchange for it.

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Molly Maid Gets You Christmas Ready

 

Molly Maid of Greater Little Rock strikes my house again. Hello, loves it. As you know, I love the Molly Maid cleaning team to pieces, and now that they're in my life, they will play a prominent role in my story. Molly Maid saves the day and allows mama to relax in front of the TV the night before guests arrive instead of cleaning! Mama has no more crazy house-looks-like-a-wreck anxiety. 

And you know what? I emailed them those exact words to apologize that we had had a birthday party the weekend prior and the house was more of a mess than usual. I said, don't worry about the dining room table because it still has a cake stand (with major cake crumbs all still on it, I kid you not). So what did they do? They cleaned the cake stand for me and the dining room table - they even wiped down the kids' toys on it. My cup runneth over. 

Above and below you can see how sparkly they make the details you need that really get gritty. Oven. Bathtub. Sink. Those things are impeccably cleaned. (And, yes, you can tell I have an almost-two-year-old because I have no oven knobs and there are stickers and rubber duckies on (what used to be) my bathtub). They also replace lightbulbs in your bathroom - blush. THANK YOU.

 

 

The kids' rooms look amazing, as usual. What I love is they even arrange the clutter. It somehow always feels so much more organized when they're done.

Oh, and they make a mean bed. Gotta love that because I kinda sorta hate making beds. And speaking of...it's about that time for me. 

I hope you make the decision to call Molly Maid so that you don't have to stress either over the holidays and a clean house. You deserve to just let it go! Call them today because they're not only the best, they're the nicest, too. And trust me. That counts a lot when it's your house. Call 501-758-9996 to request a free estimate!

Happy weekend, everyone! xoxo

Disclaimer: I was not compensated for this post, but received a free cleaning in exchange for this review. All opinions are my own. Love me some Molly Maid.

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Give Thanks for a Clean House

 

Molly Maid to the rescue! It's that time of year. When things get crazy (er). We all love to have parties and company and fun things at home. But I can't think of anyone who loves to clean for it all...seriously. If ever there is a time to have Molly Maid save your house from being a complete mess, it's now. 

The next couple of months are a time when you should be focusing on family and friends - not dust. Everything is so busy you shouldn't spend all of your time and energy on cleaning your house. You've got meals to cook, people to entertain and friends to air kiss! 

 

So I recently had Molly Maid clean my house (as I do at least a few times every year), and they didn't disappoint. Besides being the most thorough cleaners I've ever seen (yeah, they put me to shame), they're the nicest team I've ever dealt with, and that's important, too. I love working with this team of people who really care about getting everything clean and to satisfaction. They always have someone come and inspect things after they're finished, which says something. 

 

What else is cool is you can sort of customize your cleaning by telling them what's important. And you can even leave them a note with specific instructions - and your own cleaning products if you prefer something (I always use Honest in the bathrooms and kitchen!). 

  

With all of that being said, you can go to MollyMaid.com right now and request an estimate for a cleaning right away. It's super easy and they can usually schedule you really soon! And when you're done, you can focus on preparing your huge turkey meal on the cleanest dining room table around. 

I am SO thankful for Molly Maid and the time they spend on my house!

 

   

 

Disclaimer: Molly Maid provided this service in exchange for this review. All opinions are my own, and I continue to recommend Molly Maid because I love.

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Spring 2016 Shoe Trends: A Look into the Future

Every year the fashion industry convenes in Las Vegas for the bi-annual tradeshow, MAGIC, where insiders are able to check out the latest and greatest in retail for the following season. Everyone in fashion, from retail buyers to designers, fashion editors to bloggers, come together and enjoy three full days of fashion bliss. This year, the whirlwind event will take place from August 17-19 and we had a chance to get a sneak peek of what’s to come...squeal!

Leslie Gallin, President of Footwear at UBM Advanstar, is not only a highly respected industry leader, she’s also THE shoe maven. As the brains behind footwear industry giant, FN PLATFORM, Gallin is a driving force when it comes to new designers and trends. She shared with us a few of her favorite footwear trends to look out for in Spring 2016.

1.       Penny Loafers – One of the hottest shoe trends of the season, penny loafers are back in a big way! The nostalgic shoe trend offers a sophisticated look paired with comfort. Found in leather (distressed or patent), suede or print, the options for this look are endless!  

2.       Metallics – Spring 2016 is calling for lustrous shine! Whether it’s head-to-toe technicolor or just a touch of glimmer, this iridescent style is becoming the next closet staple. The best part of this revival? Any color will do! Gold, silver, technicolor or every trendsetter's current favorite – rose gold!

3.       Booties – Season after season, this look remains. Booties have been found to wear well throughout each season; whether paired with a dress or shorts, or worn with jeans. Make an investment in leather or suede booties, because this style has proven its staying power.

4.       Woven and Leather Materials – Whether crafted with a more natural fabric or modernized with a bold, technicolor look – woven fabrics have been popping up more than ever before! This handcrafted looks offers subtle dimension while remaining casual and contemporary.

5.       1940’s & 1950’s Revival – No longer associated with granny styles, the 1940’s and 1950’s are having a major moment. After a few seasons of a masculine aesthetic, feminine looks are making their way back. Everything from a rounder toe, kitten heels and slingbacks – add the perfect touch to this feminine silhouette.

6.       Varied Heel Heights – Women can now rejoice! Varied heel heights are trending for spring; meaning the same high fashion shoe styles are available with a few height options allowing no woman to ever choose between style OR comfort again!

About MAGIC

Every August and February, the fashion industry converges in Las Vegas for the most influential event in the business – MAGIC. As an incubator of fashion, MAGIC is where new trends surface and develop into what will be seen on the consumer. The show’s goal is to connect and inspire the fashion community. The August 2015 MAGIC will run from August 17 – 19, 2015. For up-to-date exhibitor listings, seminar scheduling, travel support and registration information please visit www.magiconline.com.

About FN PLATFORM

FN PLATFORM is the statement of fashion in footwear; where global leaders in footwear convene to shape the industry, network and shop for shoes. Built by the industry, for the industry, this international showcase is the pillar of branded footwear. FN PLATFORM is the global showcase for branded footwear, showcasing over 1600 men’s, women’s, juniors' and children’s footwear brands from more than 20 countries. From luxury to lifestyle, footwear is curated at FN PLATFORM with buyers in mind. Offering 6 merchandised lifestyle environments, FN PLATFORM provides buyers with a convenient and efficient way to shop the most comprehensive selection of international footwear.

Disclaimer: I was compensated in exchange for this review.

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Apparel Candy: Chic Dresses for Summer

 It's incredibly hot out now, so naturally we're all scoping out our closets for the coolest, chicest outfits we can find. Can I get an emphatic YES? I stumbled upon this new site, Apparel Candy, and they have some super-cute pieces I'm adoring - from clothing to accessories! 

I picked out just a couple of my favs here, but if you visit the site you'll fall in love with many more. This dress here is major. I'm a sucker for a fun hemline because it adds a statement so easily and makes a dress look so flirty without being overboard, ya know? I'm dying over this purple hue, too, because it's hard finding vibrant-colored dresses to live in throughout the summer that don't look too "look at me!" And Apparel Candy has so many wholesale dresses it's crazy - they're an online leader of fashion closeouts.

Jumpers are another fav of mine for any time of the year, but especially the heat of summer. This strapless number is a cutie pie in my book, dontcha think? I don't often wear prints, but I love the subtle nature of this one and I think it really adds to the on-trend look. And there are tons more to choose from if you dare to look, but be careful! The amount of hugely discounted wholesale clothing they offer is so ridiculously crazy, you'll want to set aside oh, an hour of your day devoted to shopping. Not a problem? I didn't think so.

Disclaimer: I was compensated for this post because I love shopping. All opinions are my own, of course. xoxo

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How to Wear Thigh-High Boots

Thigh-high boots are one of the sexiest trends of the past couple years, but we've also noticed that many women are a bit intimidated about owning a pair. It's one thing to fawn over them in catalogs, but another to slide a pair of these long, showy boots onto your own legs—and figure out what to wear them with. 

But thigh-high boots are a surprisingly accessible option as long as you know how to get a pair that's going to fit well and you understand some basics of how to work them into your wardrobe. Ready? Here's your complete guide to wearing thigh-high boots:

1. Get a good fit all the way down – Understanding how to choose the fit of thigh-high boots goes a long way towards getting a pair you're going to look and feel great in. Thigh-high boots actually stop just above the knee—often about two inches. That technically reaches your thigh, but doesn't ride high up; if a boot goes much higher than this, look for a shorter pair. And the fit is even more important. Most thigh-highs are pull-on, not zip-up, and designed to cling to the shape of the leg. That means you have very little wiggle room in there, but you should never go too tight. Make sure you feel like you can flex your knee, and that your calves aren't crushed, once you pull the boot on. 

2. Know whether this pair is meant to be smooth or wrinkled – These aren't technical terms, but thigh-high boots break into roughly two categories: those that follow the leg's curves more or less smoothly, as if they are perfectly fitted, and those that crumple or wrinkle a bit, as if they're a touch on the baggy side. Both can be sexy, but in different ways. The wrinkly kind will work equally well with skinny jeans or skirts, while the smooth kind is going to be mostly skirt- or dress-only.

3. Making skinny jeans work – Skinny jeans can absolutely be worn with thigh-high boots, but it's going to take the right jeans as well as the right boots. Remember, your jeans have to lie underneath your boots all the way down to the ankle without causing bulging. That means that the closer the fit of the jeans the better; it also means that your boots need to have enough room inside to accommodate the jeans (hence our preference for the baggy kind of boot for this). An alternative is to wear leggings and cut-off shorts with your thigh-highs – much easier to put together mechanically and a very appealing look.

4. Thigh-highs always work with skirts – Almost any length skirt will pair with thigh-highs, making them more versatile than some other boots. Obviously, longer skirts will partly cover your boots, but that can mean good coverage in winter. Even a mini works well—the boot reduces just how revealing the mini is by keeping much of the leg covered.

How do you feel about wearing thigh-high boots? What's your favorite style?

Disclaimer: I was compensated for this post because I love thigh-high boots. 

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Why I Need Beats By Dre Headphones

I have these weird things that I like to collect. Ok, shoes, duh. But I also find myself collecting things I don't even really need multiple pairs of (ok, fine. I don't really need 100 pairs of shoes, but who's counting?). And I have way too many pairs of jeans. But, lately I'm slightly obsessed with collecting headphones. Insert huge bashful face here.

I own several pairs of very nice ones, so the next pair to my collection will obviously need to be one from Beats By Dre. I mean, did you see the Marc Jacobs show last month? All of the guests were given a pair in their seats to jam to the looks as they waltzed down the runway. Would've. Paid. Money. For. That. It doesn't get chicer, really. I feel like these are the headphones of the fashion set, for sure.

There are several different versions, so the prices vary, but I found a beautiful purple pair on sale at Walmart for just $189.99...seriously whoa. They're normally almost $300, so gifting family members, start your engines. Wink. 

Why do I need them? Well, for one they're noise-canceling and the heavens know I need that on a road trip. Seriously, when little C used to cry in the car, I'd put in my ear buds to drown it out because I'd get so anxious (I was the passenger, duh). But besides that, I'm such a music freak and I can't imagine the quality of my tunes on this. Taylor Swift on volume 25, please. Kidding. Sorta. 

Psst...oh yeah, and Happy Halloween! If you're into that kinda thing. Xoxo 

Disclaimer: I was compensated via Walmart.com for this post, but all opinions are def my own. Happy gift giving. ;) 

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Cozying Up to Starbucks Fall Blend

It's fall coffee-drinking season, y'all. Can I get a round of squeals? I can't express to you how much I adore coffee now that I have kids. I cannot believe I wasn't a coffee drinker at all a mere five years ago. It just blows my mind. I used to think of caffeine as a bad thing, and I went like 10 years living off sugary beverages that didn't have caffeine, but yet they had sugar. I'm way happier with my coffee these days...it makes my brain tick in the mornings! And it just makes me happier to get going (other than the smiles on my adoring kids' faces, that is.) I say everything in moderation, including coffee, and we'll all be just fine. 

Now...to the Fall Blend.

It's everything you might expect in a fall blend...layered and full-bodied, but yet a great medium roast. It's not overpowering, but a delicate blend of nuttiness with a touch of spicy citrus flavor. Kinda genius, if you ask me. 

My husband loves it, too. I can totally see us now drinking this together as the cooler air sets in...around the breakfast table. It's our favorite way to wake up together as a family since sometimes dinner can be a little crazy (cranky time of day for all). Coffee in hand...new boots on. I can't wait for the official first day of fall (which is my birthday, too!). So cozy. Cheers!

Disclaimer: I received coffee from Starbucks via ModernMom for this post. All opinions, as always, remain my own. Yummiest coffee ever. 

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