Blogger still a Thing?

 Is Blogger still   a thing? 😅

Because apparently… yes. And so am I.

I’ve had this little corner of the internet since 2010 and I’ll be honest: I’ve neglected it like an old plant that somehow refuses to die. 🌱 (Respect.)

Back then, blogging was the thing. We wrote posts, added pictures, changed layouts, followed each other’s blogs, and it felt like a whole community. Fast-forward to now and everything is mostly social media—quick captions, reels, stories, and posts that disappear into the scroll.

So today I’m popping in with a super “random” post: a little photo dump of life + a gentle re-introduction… and I’m genuinely curious; 

How did you come across this blog?

If you’re reading this, I’d LOVE if you left a comment and answered any of these:

• Did you subscribe years ago and you still get these posts by email?
• Did you find this by Googling something and my blog popped up?
• Did a friend share a link?
• Are you one of the original “back in the day” readers from 2010?
• Do you still read blogs at all… or am I basically talking to myself? 😂

I only have about 70 followers, so it truly feels like we’re in a tiny little living room on the internet—and I kind of love that.

Also… should I revive this space?

Would you prefer posts like:

• quick life updates + photo dumps
• faith / encouragement posts
• San Diego adventures / places I’m loving
• behind-the-scenes of work & life (the safe version 😉)
• thrifting / finds / little joys

Drop a comment and tell me what you’d actually enjoy reading here. If you want, introduce yourself too—where are you reading from? (City/state is perfect) 

Mason Jar with trinkets

Turned a ring that was too big for my hands into a little décor piece 🌸✨ Paired it with a brown mason jar + bow, and I’ll probably add flowers later. Love when a simple idea comes to life. 

March 2025 New Month

“March is here, and with it comes the perfect time for a little spring cleaning—not just for our homes, but for our minds, habits, and even our social media!

This month, let’s refresh our feeds, unfollow negativity, and make space for what truly inspires us. Whether it’s clearing out digital clutter, setting new goals, or embracing fresh perspectives, a little reset can go a long way.

What’s one thing you’re ‘spring cleaning’ in your life this month? Let’s start March with a new outlook! ✨ #SpringCleaning #MarchRefresh #NewMonthNewMindset”

Papparazzi Month of March Challenge

 For month of March I’m doing a “What I’m wearing Challenge”It’s my own personal jewelry and most were a one and done piece. 

I know this will get me back in the habit of intentionally putting content back on the blog. 

You get to see The Pretties”  while I discipline myself to post here as well as the other platforms.

What jewelry pieces do you wear? 

For me I love this piece. 

🌹 Bold, Beautiful, and One-of-a-Kind! 🌹

Today’s Paparazzi showcase is this stunning silver rose statement necklace! ✨ A true showstopper, this piece adds elegance and edge to any outfit. And just like a real bloom, it fun to see the beauty in the small things.

💎 March a picture a day challenge 

💎 Picture  of my own collection 

💎 31 Days of Picture Fun  

#RachelRoseMercantile #JewelryChallenge #Marchchallange #PaparazziJewelry #StatementNecklace 

#OneAndDone

Mountain Cookin’ with Missy Books

 My Mountain Cookin’ books with  Missy Jones  came in! 

Way too excited. Nothing fancy. Just Good Eatin’

And Y’uns Come and Eat.  Meals & Memories from Tan Yard Holler.

It’s in large print! Say what? 

The packaging is amazing! It’s a boxed set with a lot of information m. There’s even an interactive bonus QR codes. Which then scans to view videos of Missy sharing receipt tips and personal memories from the Kentucky Mountains. 

Here’s are pictures of the books and below the link to check out Missy’s website. 

 Im ready to dive in and make some yummys. 

Avocado Toast

 

One avocado 

Touch of Red onions 

Touch of Cilantro 

Garlic salt 

Salt and Pepper 

Fresh lemon juice. 

Mix and enjoy. 

I didn’t use a toaster for the bread. 

Warmed it up after making my egg. 

It gives it even more flavor. 

Going Gray Crew Question 1

 Letting your hair go gray is a big decision, and asking the right questions can help you prepare for the transition. Here is the first question to consider. 

Why do I want to go gray? (Is it for convenience, cost savings, personal preference, or embracing natural aging?)

I noticed for me, my scalp was becoming sensitive to the dye. Both store bought and salon color. Plus, the cost savings was definitely a huge thing to consider. 

I still have not embraced my grey hair. Not sure if I ever will. 

Do you have a going gray journey? 

I’m 61 and stopped coloring my hair about 4 years ago. It was harder on the people around me than it was for myself. It was the oddest thing. 

I had people offering to pay for the salon visit themselves. Bank Tellers even mentioned the gray. It was a crazy time. 

Just glad it’s finally all settled into  state of normalcy . 

7 Costume Jewelry Tips

 

For those of us who love costume jewelry we need to make sure we understand the importance of taking care of our pieces. 

Here are a few tips and examples on how to take care of costume jewelry: 

Costume jewelry can tarnish or wear out quickly, but with the right care, you can extend its lifespan. Here are some tips:

1. Keep It Dry

Moisture is the biggest enemy of costume jewelry. Avoid wearing it while showering, swimming, or exercising.

Remove rings before washing hands or using hand sanitizer.

2. Store Properly

Store jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

• Use individual pouches, plastic bags, or a jewelry box with separate compartments to prevent tangling and scratching.

3. Apply a Protective Coating

Clear nail polish or a jewelry protectant spray (like Rust-Oleum Clear Spray) can help seal metal and prevent tarnishing.

 Reapply every few months as needed.

4. Clean Gently

Wipe jewelry with a soft, dry microfiber cloth after wearing.

 For deeper cleaning, use a mild soap and water solution with a soft toothbrush, but dry thoroughly. Avoid harsh chemicals.

5. Avoid Contact with Chemicals

Perfume, lotions, and hairsprays can corrode the metal and dull gemstones. Apply these products before putting on your jewelry.

6. Rotate Your Pieces

Don’t wear the same piece daily; give your jewelry a break to reduce wear and tear.

7. Fix Issues Early

If a stone is loose or a clasp is weak, fix it right away with jewelry glue. 

Triton Pre-Boarding Process

DJM Insurance Social Media

 

Don’t mind me. 

Working on social media content and wanted to test some things out here in my blog.

https://www.instagram.com/stories/djminsuranceservices/3486102986139691657?igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

How are you? How is your social media presence? 

Novice? Pro? Caught in between? 

Honey can do Free Standing Metal Clothing Rack

Click here. 

Help me decide on this product: Honey-Can-Do Freestanding Metal Clothing Rack with Wood Shelves, Black/Natural, GAR-09567 https://a.co/d/hX4nvts