CWS: Life is Good on Both Sides

By Becky Kénaan

KNOCK, KNOCK... LIFE IS GOOD!

Honestly, I truly enjoy the blogging experience here in Second Life.  As an aspiring SL model and hermit, it is fun to begin to write on a subject and then see where it's path leads me, utilizing the vast and uncharted regions within my demented brain. It is sort of like starting to paint on a blank canvas, only my brush and palette colors  are my life experiences to be told.

As I wait patiently to be discovered as either a brilliant blogger or someone definitely in need of psychiatric counseling, it is both comforting and reassuring that many others here can actually relate to me.  I mean, it is not like I have some kind of reckless abandonment of RL that takes me into the world of Second Life.  On the contrary, for I see SL as an extension to my creative passions, and making friends along the way here.  

I look at SL as an attribute and more as an opportunity to turn people to look away from the negative that life often throws at us and use my self-deprecating brand of sick humor as a means to laugh about our lives as we travel through life. 

SL also allows us to show our dreams to others with guarded enthusiasm. Although my enthusiasm sometimes gets the best of me (here as well as in RL), nonetheless I believe that my message to everyone is basically about enjoying those around us  and to never take them for granted because life is so very short.  Second Life is, in a way, is one of those very threads that ties us together, realizing just how precious life truly is.

FASHION

One of my favorite venues here in Second Life is fashion.  As a young girl, I grew up having several Barbies in my room and would often have my own fashion show events and create drama along the way, not knowing that one day I would grow up to become a diva myself. LOL.  But seriously, I can say without hesitation that I do love the fashion trends and statements that are created here as sort of a opium to satisfy my innate needs to wear wonderful clothing without breaking my real life piggy bank.

My love and passion here in SL for fashion often makes me look at my RL ensembles by comparisons.  But, I must say that, after looking at the vast quantities and styles of designers here in SL, I often wonder how many of them actually flunked their high school or college anatomy classes.  

Much of the fashion here in SL is about promoting sex as we all know. On the other hand, there are many serious designers here that really understand the fashion world and inspire to bring the latest fashion trends into second life and thus contribute to our quality of life here as we know it. 

I do believe that we are only limited only by our talents, that they have to be nurtured and explored, and that we must take them as far as we seek to go with them in life. I think that we should use everything God gave us.

RELATIONSHIPS

Many men that I come into contact with here in SL I find as a source for my writing.  I love to yammer, joust and flirt with them whenever I can. 

“Ah, Yes. So many Men…So little Time..”  LOL.  

When it comes to relationships here in SL, we are all born to be attracted. Much of what we experience here is driven by hormones, which will always be present in men who are interested in us. But obviously not all men are the same. I have been asked what I feel are the most important things that I look for  in a guy.  Well, I believe that the perfect man for me is the guy who can override the effects of his hormones intellectually. 

In RL I like to look into a man's eyes.  Nice eyes are important as the window to his soul. It is also important to me that he possesses clean teeth because it means that he has good hygiene. A man also has to have that clean-showered smell.  

Cologne is okay as long that it is not overpowering - just a subtle dab for me goes a long way.   A guy also has to possess a good personality, a good sense of humor (laughing at all of my jokes of course), polite and understanding, respectful to me and my parents, and caring for what I have to say and a good listener. 

Listening scores high marks on my Beck-o-Meter.

Too much to ask for you think?  Well, I firmly believe that there are a whole bunch of men out in this world that are good & decent men, who are well-meaning and who treat women with respect. I remain an optimist. 

They do exist.   

We do still have a lot of sexism in our society and sadly women are often seen as less valuable in a lot of ways. Nothing like what I have experienced and seen with my own eyes in China however or for that matter in many places in the Middle East.  For that I am grateful to live in a Western Civilization. 


But, men don’t necessarily know what makes the female brain tick. Take this You Tube Video as a good example:

But seriously - go for whatever you are attracted to.  Decent guys do exist here. But if you have been hurt enough times and that all of what attracts you is gone, then find a nice girl. Bottom line, do what makes you happy.

RELIGION 

I believe in God, the creator of our universe.  What draws me to my conclusion that there is a God is how infinitesimal the universe is, yet precisely structured. I remember doing my graduate work and researching the design work by Charles and Ray Eames.  

With their work now cataloged and in the Smithsonian Institute, Charles and Ray Eames are among the most prolific American designers of the twentieth century. They are best known for their groundbreaking contributions to architecture, furniture design (e.g., the Eames Chair), industrial design and manufacturing, and the photographic arts. 

But one thing that has always captured my attention was an early film they produced called "Powers of Ten" back in the 1970s. That film showed me how dynamically perfect our universe is from the tiniest atom to the largest galaxy.

THE SL TIME CAPSULE

The experience here in SL is great fun for me but it has to be tempered against RL. 

As everyone experiences here, we have to both balance and budget our time here in SL so as to not let it collide and interfere with that of our RL.

That is where I as well make the definite distinction in priority. 

This experience here in SL is great fun for the most part.  But, in order to write I have to rely not so much on being hidden behind a closed door (as many do here btw) but more about “defenestration. “  You know, the act of throwing someone or something out of a window so that you can focus on writing from my “alpha” state - which for me is a form of meditation.

Becky Da' Boop with Da' Scoop

I hope that most everyone will continue to enjoy my chronicles of Second Life's delightful absurdities.  If you would like me to comment on something that amuses you about your experiences here in SL, please do knock, knock!  

CWS: GLAM DREAMS FASHION SHOWCASE EVENT ~ OMG! Even the Mafia Came!

       By Becky Kénaan

ABOUT GLAM DREAMS:

Without a doubt, the work of Owner, Founder, and Designer of GLAM DREAMS, Ms. Sandytpr Lysette, speaks for itself (as you will experience by this article).

It gives us great pleasure and honor here at Classic with Style to showcase the marvelous work of this artist and the versatility of her splendid work. 

Sandy started on Second Life in 2009. She enjoyed an extremely successful modeling career in the SL Fashion Industry and then eventually retired as a model.

But that was only a passage in her career here in SL for she aspired on to greater heights in fashion.  Sandy met the Owner of 69 Park Ave to become General Manager and Styling Assistant and take over all the 69 Park Ave stores affairs. 

Under Sandy's management, 69 Park Avenue realized rapid business development and success in a very short period of time. Her business acumen and marketing strategies, which she applied from her successful RL marketing background, quickly positioned positioned 69 Park Ave in the SL Fashion Industry.

From there, it is all history, for her designing and styling passion led her to pursue her dream of a store for ladies' fine apparel.  Glam Dreams was born within the Fashion Industry in March of 2013.

In April, Glam Dreams premiere satellite store was opened at Classic With Style's Fashion District. Soon, a second satellite store was opened on April 18th at Franks Jazz Sim, and a gorgeous special edition gown was designed as a Frank's Jazz exclusive.

FORWARD:

Before we get started, I have something to discuss with Sunrae Suntzu, the Owner of Classic with Style:

Becky: "Sorry about coming in late to the Glam Dream Fashion Show, Boss.  Janet locked me in the closet in the backstage area, I SWEAR!  And, I did nothing wrong this time, REALLY!  It must have been one of her sicko practical jokes!" 

Sunrae:  "I just give up!  I am at wit's end with you Becky Kenaan!! When I told you that I needed you to get the stage cleaned and ready for this event, I did not want you to send Bell out  to clean the runway with a FREAKIN' STREET CLEANER!.  Do you know what those brushes did to that stage? DO YOU?  OMG!" 

Becky:  "I am SO, SO SORRY Boss!  I had no idea that Bell would hire a street sweeper company to clean the runway. She just told me that she could get the job done.  I think that she must have owed a favor to a mob boss or something.  I should have realized that something was wrong when I heard her muttering to herself about a bad gambling bet or something."

Becky: "What was I thinking anyway? And, did you see those fat guys with no necks in the back of the audience casing the Dome out and looking for someone. Also, did you happen to notice that, when Bell modeled today, we only saw her backside.  She must have been hiding from those guys.  I am sure of it!"

Sunrae:  "Look, Becky!  You must be delusional!  Bell told me flat out that she did NOT hire those people and that they were YOUR relatives!"  "What do you take me for?  An Idiot?"

Becky:  "No, Ms. Suntzu!  Of course not!  Did you even bother to read the "BBB" on back of those guys work clothes?  I think there is more to this than what meets the eye... and certainly what she told you is BS!  I looked it up... The "BBB" stands for "Bell's Bail Bondsmen!"

Janet:  "May I ask what you both are arguing for?  Everyone in the backstage area is hiding behind the curtains and dying to find out what all this heated discussion is about."  

"Oh, and BTW, Sunrae...Here is the key to the closet that we locked Becky into."

Sunrae: Why, thank you dear Janet (kiss, kiss)."

Becky:  "PFFT! I think that I am going to be sick! You mean you BOTH planned this together?  OMG! Locking me up in THAT closet?!!!" AND, I heard you snickering like little school girls thinking that it was some big JOKE!  Cinderella, my Ass!!!

Sunrae: "Well, I told Janet to lock you up and to throw the key away, Hunny Bunny.  Besides, It was for your own good.  You are a bit clumsy at times and we didn't want to see you hurt yourself." 

Janet:  "Becky, let's be frank shall we?  Sometimes you are just not paying attention to things during the fashion show events. You are constantly tripping over your own feet and breaking things here.  Falling into that man's lap at the end of the runway the other day was so embarrassing for Sunrae." 

Becky: "Sorry, Ma'am... But you know that there was something on the stage that I slipped on. And then that guy caught me as I fell.  He was kind of cute.  And he took my phone number, too." 

Sunrae:  "Pfft !  Janet, I GIVE UP!!!  You FREAKIN' deal with her!! Send her out somewhere far away on assignment so we can make the necessary repairs to the stage here without her mucking up and destroying anything else around here PLEASE!

Becky:  (Smiles)

Becky: And, just how is that Camaro of yours, Janet? Did you get that oil leak fixed?"

Becky:  (Smirks) 

Janet: (Raises a brow and starts to fidget) 

Janet:  "Pfft! "Okay, I will send her far, far away for sure Sunrae!" 

Becky:  "Great!  And I will certainly remember to bring home some croissants."

ANNOUNCING THE GLAM DREAMS FASHION SHOW EVENT:

Bold and charming at once, this Swimwear Collection by Glam Dreams will delight every women’s eye with trendy one-piece swimsuits. Their fun, pure style, playful, and eye-catching looks works harmonious with your silhouette while at once lending grace, sexiness, and glamour.

The spirit of luxury, leisure and feminine sweetness is celebrated in each of these beautiful bathing suits and is an essential to complete your seaside look.

BELLA LOCUALA

Worn by Bell Frayar is this marvelous mesh outfit with its hounds-tooth print skirt that will never go out of style. This "just above the knee" length skirt is ready-to-wear and flattering. 

Topped by a lovely  sheer chiffon spaghetti strap top featuring its multicolored summer prints. I love the Locuala small flowered hat with the veil. It is just perfect for breezy summer nights or strolling underneath the city lights.

SEQUOIA 

Showcased by Summit is a  Monochrome skirt set and is a combination of black and white, seen in many different shapes and forms. This trend is very easy to pull off, and could be worn at any time of the year. It’s a forever lasting trend, which everyone loves.

KAY 

This pants set shows off a lovely over the elbow sleeved top with a turtle neck in the same print as Sequoia and Benita, leaving midriff bare worn on a long black style pants. A wide-brimmed hat with a flower enhancement finishes this ensemble in a very feminine way.

NARIKO OKAWA PANTS, NARIKO WHITE and RED, CHEROKEE 

These are beautiful pants sets with their  lightweight silk spaghetti strapped straight neckline and high - low hemline tops topping a style of pants that have seemed to with stand the test of time.

These pants combine the best of all three worlds; comfort, fashion and usefulness. The finishing touch at this set is given by the white flowers with black pearls collar and the cute little veiled hat.

Available in black, white , red and zebra.

LINDA DRESS 

Modeled by Lil2Imp is a cute girly summer dress with its strapless sweetheart neckline and beautiful patchwork print in bright red, white, and black colors featuring a hot Irregular Hemline. A gorgeous wide brimmed hat is included in this set.

HAPPY MORNING DRESS

Worn by Bell is another version of Linda Dress in a beautiful flower print including small black gloves, a black flowered enhancement running from one shoulder behind the neck and then flaring down to the midriff from the opposite shoulder. It also comes with a small cute veiled hat.

HALLLIE LARSSON

Showcased by our Model Summit, is another magnificent summer dress in red with a strapless sweetheart neckline, hugging the body and finishing in a hot irregular hemline. 

A white flowered accessory runs from top of  shoulder around the neck and falls down from the opposite shoulder to the midriff.

Irrestible! I want this dress!!!

EAVANYA & BEATRIZ TIERBAL

Women are always looking for the perfect little black dress.The Tierbal version, worn here by our model Vicky, includes a wide brimmed black hat and small black gloves.

Whether they are going on a Saturday night date to the theater or to a swanky cocktail party, the little black dress is the optimal attire for every woman that wants to look elegant and sexy. 

STEFANIA 

Shown by our Model Janet, is an exquisite long dress with its sweetheart halter neckline enhanced with a collar of beautiful white flowers.

Both horizontal and vertical, thick and thin intertwining irregular colored stripes hugs her body to the ankles. White flowers in front on the waist lends her a most feminine touch for this long summer dress.

LINES FAIR 

I must say that this is an absolutely  gorgeous summer dress with its strapless deep, U-shaped neckline, enhanced with a huge flairing tail. 

Honey, you can strut your stuff and make those Men's knees buckle and wobble wearing this outfit.     

The dress is made of soft and comfortable fabric, which reveals the natural curves of your body. A beautiful, red flowered collar, and a wide brimmed hat are included in this set - giving the final, very feminine touch.

ANDREA 

This mermaid shaped gown in mesh is your best choice of showing off your fabulous silhouette. 

I love its dreamy sheer lace-like ornaments for the upper part bodice and the way its  hemline spreads out with its laced skirt base.  

A nice and most feminine touch to this ensemble are the small transparent gloves included in this set.

TROPICAL SPLENDOR 

Beautifully presented by our model Bell is this elegant white mermaid-shaped gown with its strapless straight neckline. 

Long, over-the-elbow gloves, juxtaposed with a gorgeous collar necklace with flowers and an attached shawl at back of the flowered collar flow with stunning detail. 

Becky Da' Boop with Da' Scoop

Well, just don't take my word or stand there drooling with that blank look on your face!

Go check out GLAM DREAMS Store to see Sandytpr Lysette's stunning designs for yourself and join her group at: 

http://slurl.com/secondlife/CWS%20Fashion%20District/153/118/752

CWS: A Night in Paris Styling Theme

by Becky Kénaan

The allure of Paris night life and its romantic appeal inspires the fashion world around us. The elements of "A Night in Paris" theme evokes the images of old Parisian movies in which actors dined under the stars and made romance come alive on film.  

And Paris, what’s not romantic about it?” It has a gorgeous setting of historic monuments and scenic bridges across the Seine, and fashionably-dressed Parisians making their way along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées with its cinemas, cafés, luxury specialty shops and clipped horse-chestnut trees.  It is such a wonderful place to fall in love.

Becky:  "Pardon me, Janet, but do you think that the next time you send me out on an assignment, you can send me to Paris. After all, I love Paris. It is also the Mecca for fashion. I sincerely believe that I could really bring back some great fashion ideas to both share and contribute to everyone's education here at Class with Style." 

Janet:  "Look!  You will address me as "Madame Diva" from now on! I am THE Madame Diva here and NOT you!   And, Icksnay on the Paris trip idea unless you want to butt heads with the Boss. Besides, THAT little stunt you pulled with that new girl at the Styling contest did NOT go over very well with the Boss.  I am doing everything in my power to keep you from you getting fired!   

Janet: "What were you thinking, anyway?  OMG!  Telling that poor girl to look into her inventory for a "Hem Straightener HUD" right before she was about to go down the runway? If I were Sunrae, I would take you out behind the university and have you shot!"

Becky: "Give me a break!"  Where is your sense of humor? That was just a joke.  It was kind of a "right of passage." I am sure that you can appreciate that with your age and all. Oops! You know what I mean."

Janet: "My age?" Why you little blanket-tee, blank, blank, f**k*** #@*! blank!... How dare you! I will have you know that I am not a day over 39. Pfft!" 

Becky:  "Well, Madame Diva.. I must say that you don't look a day over 39 here in SL."

Becky: "And what about YOU driving THAT car down the runway yesterday before the event?  I nearly broke my ankle on the runway slipping on the oil that was leaking out of that pixelated Jalopy! If Sunrae were to ever find out about that, you would be standing next to me in the unemployment line here in Second Life!"

Janet:  "Okay...er, ahh...well, I guess we can overlook that little prank you pulled off then Becky.. Just make sure that it doesn't happen again! Pfft!  Just curious...Did you notice that I was able to hit second gear and break the tires loose?

Becky: "Yes Madame Diva I did!  Very impressive! FYI, Sunrae came to me afterwards and asked me what that funny smell was on the stage.  

Becky: "I told her that it was a new perfume from Paris called "Eau De Toilette Camaro." I think she bought it." 

"And now, about that trip to Paris?  Lets break some bread and talk about the travel arrangements, shall we?"

A Night in Paris (Une nuit d'été à Paris) Fashion Theme

This may sound a bit of a cliché, but falling in love in Paris really does happen. I am sure that you have all heard that Paris is dubbed as ‘the city of lights’ and a lovers paradise.  Go there and let it happen to you! 

I think everyone knows that I love the movie Casablanca, but do you think that could really happen outside the movies or in books? My sarcasm towards love and relationships has recently been melted away by some very charming French men that I have come to know here in SL... And, who knows? For perhaps one day I will meet one of them under the Eiffel Tower to see if there is something to the magic of Paris.

My Night in Paris ensemble reflects the monochromatic elegance of a moon-lit night sky, with the stars  shimmering and dancing over the City of Lights.  With that imagery in my mind, I chose this elegant Marie Black Gown by Eshi Otawara with its sexy mermaid floor-length black evening look that is stunningly enhanced by its beautiful silver illuminating sequins and graceful feathered base and textures. 

The flared floor-skimming skirt lends both a classy and elegant look to the gown as it flows seamlessly with my silhouette. I chose to wear my pearl hair in corn row braids to complement the feathered features/appearance at the base of this gown.

♥♥  Night in Paris Gown Ensemble ♥♥

Shape:           Drunna by Ｋｉｔｏｒｉ 姫 by (kitori.yuheng)

Skin:             Glam Affair- Gio Natural - Clean by Aida Ewing

Eyes:             Expressive eyes gray BIG by Nany Merlin

Lipstick:        Glam Affair- Layla lipstick - desire by Aida Ewing

Face Tattoo:  White~Widow - Face Tattoo] Confettis White by Stan Jigsaw

Hair:              Discord Designs - Cornrow Braids FBR01 (Pearl) by Kallisti Burns

Nails:             CCD Carter's Nails in Black and White by Kimber Carter 

Headdress:     MARIE GOWN Hat by Eshi Otawara

Dress:            MARIE GOWN by Eshi Otawara

Earrings:        *VoguE* Pearl Feather Earrings by Zalyn Bailey

Bracelet:       OH RAMONA_silver bangles by demonya Denimore

Shoes:           GB Stone Sandals by Argis lgaly

CWS: “Like a Flower in a Meadow”

I just love this dress! It’s vivid floral pattern and colors, along with its flower-like form expresses my inner flirt with and love of nature. Flowers always give me such a wonderful sense of happiness and oneness with mother earth. I believe that flowers best illustrate and proclaim life’s beauty in all of its forms. 

This love for nature, called “Biophilia”brings both nature and the human worlds together. As nature's flower, my form and floral colors are indigenous with that of a flower for my hair and floral headdress become as one, with my eyes reflecting the passing of clouds against a vivid blue sky. I chose this cute floral Fellini Couture Delice mesh gown in blue because of its vibrant colors that extols the beauty that nature brings to all of us. 

“Like a Flower in a Meadow” 

A Poem by Becky Kénaan

“Like a flower in a Meadow

Whispering silently to days sunny Glow,

My Love thee I give as a precious gift I Bestow

Our souls unite as our flesh bonds in this Dance

With true love such as ours into eternal Romance

Extolling nature’s most intimate Treat, 

Within my center acute and Deep

Is all of life’s secrets awakening from Sleep

You give my life meaning with your touches I Adore,

As my flower opens for my spirit to Soar

With every vivid color in my mind you Create,

To share in love’s splendor as we taste and Partake

Our Love is everlasting, one never to Forsake

Cast against nature’s most Intimate Cling,

Our journey leads us yet into another new Spring

As we paint on Life's canvas of clouded blue Sky

With each day’s new passing and blossoming Cry,

Your embrace gives me comfort as each day draws Nigh

As sunset turns my leaves from color to Fade,

To the night comes dreams and your loving Serenade”

 “Like a Flower in a Meadow" Ensemble 

Shape:         Drunna by Ｋｉｔｏｒｉ 姫 by (kitori.yuheng)
Skin:            Glam Affair- Gio Natural - D HB 08 by Aida Ewing
Eyes:            Expressive eyes gray BIG by Nany Merlin
Eyelashes:    Glam Affair- CELEBRITY - Eyelashes 15 (Tintable) by Spotorno Binder
Lipstick:       Glam Affair- Layla lipstick - desire by Aida Ewing
Face Tattoo: White~Widow - Face Tattoo] Confettis Turquoise by Stan Jigsaw
Hair:             W&Y HAIR New 30 in Blue by yukitan Farrjones
Corsage:       Fellini Couture- Delice Butterfly Corsage by Joy Fellini (joy.fellini)
Necklace:     EarthStones Marquessa Necklace - Sapphire by Abraxxa Anatine
Earrings:       EarthStones Marquessa Earrings - Sapphire by Abraxxa Anatine
Dress:           Fellini Couture- Delice Mesh Gown in blue by Joy Fellini (joy.fellini)
Gloves:         Fellini Couture- Delice Glove in blue by Joy Fellini (joy.fellini)
Hat:             Fellini Couture- Delice flower hat in blue Joy by Fellini (joy.fellini)
Pantyhose:  GS KAJA Socks in Red by Christy Hamer
Shoes:         ChicZafari - Gisele Brocade Floral Boots by jonyaranda

CWS: B’WUANA BECKY’S ROCK CLUB TRAVEL BOOK

by Becky Kenaan

Becky: "Hi Sunrae. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me. I know that you are very busy with Classic w/Style, making all of those exhausting executive decisions and such. I need to speak candidly with you, Ma'am...

You see, I would like to receive a travel allowance of some sort for my plane fare and a compact car rental expenses to get me to these places you send me on assignment, please."

Sunrae: "Becky, Becky, Becky... If I told you once, I have told you a thousand times, we have a very limited budget BUT I will see what we can do for you, Honey Buns. And where do you plan on going this time out?"

Becky: "Great! Fabulous! Terrific! I sincerely appreciate anything you could do for me! (kisses her feet). Oh..where? Well, I want to travel back to North Africa and see the place where Humphrey Bogart slapped a juicy kiss on Ingrid Bergmen. You remember that club in Morocco I believe called "Rick's Cafe Americain?" I just need simple air fare and then a modest rental car to get me across the desert, please."

Sunrae: "Consider it done! Nothing but the best for my B'wuana Becky!" Also, Becky... please have Janet provide you with the clothing for your trip. We want you looking the best! 

Becky: "Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you!!! I guarantee that you won't be disappointed! Thank you so much for believing in me!"

Sunrae: "Oh, don't mention it! It is the least I can do! I will have Janet Brink draw up the paperwork and get you plane reservations and a nice exotic convertible for you to explore."

Becky: "YOU ARE THE BEST! HUGS!" Wow! A convertible, like the Ferrari Janet drives and clothing too!!! I am so excited!! Just wait until I tell all of my friends! So, So Cool!!"

B’WUANA BECKY’S ROCKIN' NIGHTCLUB TRAVEL BOOK

Each time I travel through SL exploring, I have always thought seriously about creating a "tourist book" on some of the very best dance and music clubs that Second Life has to offer (as well as some you may wish to avoid). Like many here, I love meeting other people and my personal taste for music is diverse. For me, the sky is the limit - I love Jazz, Rock, Pop, and Country.

In addition, I also enjoy listening to music from different cultures as well. It is also as equally important for me to discover new places in Second Life that have quality themes about them, and then listen to different cultural styles and new musicians that make their way here for both fun and entertainment.

It is no secret that there are an overabundance of clubs here in Second Life. For that matter, there have been several clubs in Second Life, many which, sadly, are no longer. I want to take a journey with you to begin looking into some of the clubs here and give you my impressions. The music that I listen to in Second Life is one of my favorite experiences. When I am at RL work I will often take my cute butt avi and park it in a club on SL and then listen to the club’s music as background music while I work. Be it by a live artist or even spun by a DJ at a club, it is something I find quite unique as a Second Life experience.

So, with that said, I decided to go visit some of the rock clubs here in Second Life and then give you my overall impressions.

IN SEARCH OF "RICK'S CAFE AMERICAIN" AT THE CASBAR

As you may remember (a few blogs back), I wrote about Humphrey Bogart (as Rick Blaine) and Ingrid Bergman (as Ilsa Lund) saying their final goodbyes in Casa Blanca before her plane started its engines to leave for Lisbon. I still cry every time I see that movie. It is certainly one of the most famous scenes in cinematic history. What lingers in my mind still is Rick’s Cafe Americain. You remember that place don’t you? The tavern where that now famous request, “Play it Again, Sam,” is now enshrined into film making history.

My research has led me to the Casbah in Alger where
I believe Rick's "Cafe Americain" was located.

As a fan of this classic film, the impact of Casa Blanca will never diminish in my mind as one of Hollywood's greatest films. Also, there is always a small hope deep inside me that the next time I watch Casablanca, Ilsa will not get on that plane. HA!! 

Well, just like the Jeanie, I am out of the bottle again, but this time looking into a few nightclubs to stir your romantic imaginations and interests. So, go get yourself an SL plane ticket and come aboard with me for our next exciting destination! To satisfy my curiosity, I am first going to Algiers to find Rick's place where Rick planted that wet one on Ilsa.

Whew! Somehow I was able to pack all of my possessions 
in this marvelous suitcase that came with this wonderful 
Fay Mesh Outfit that I got from Diamond Style. 

Hmmm? This plane that Janet Brink booked for me looks to be some sort of cargo plane. Oh well, it must be either a ticketing error or maybe because of the place I am going and it's remoteness. I am sure that when I get to the terminal here in Algers, I will be able to clear things up and also get a much more appropriate flight for my next leg. I am sure that Sunrae got me a business class flight. Where is my rental car anyway?

Outfit & Jewelry: Caverna Obscura: Djinnie (Ivory) by Elvina Ewing

What the heck is this stuff doing in my suitcase, anyway? I don't remember packing THESE clothes!! Maybe the baggage guy here in Algiers got my luggage confused with someone else's? Well, as they say..."When in Rome, do as Romans do!"

Thanks a lot, Janet!  So, this is YOUR idea of a "Convertible?"
I definitely owe you one for this!  Pfft!!

Janet!!! This camel is NOT my idea of a rental car! I am sure that you must have told them that I wanted one that got good gas mileage and it came with "camel-colored" interior. I guess that something must have gotten lost in the translation, eh? Pfft! Anyway, this camel is kinda cute. His name is Zigzag - Named after the famous cigarette rolling papers. Hmmm...I wonder what they feed him?

Riding this camel, I am getting humped without even knowing about it. Ha! I guess that I will just have to agree to disagree on the camel as transportation for my first leg of this travel excursion.

Wow! Now I know why Janet raved about this place so much.
This is pretty good shit!  Cough! 

FIRST WATERHOLE: CAFE CASABLANCA 

My first stop here is this place called Casablanca Cafe. Not at all what I imagined it to be. Very empty. Lights on, but nobody home. Kind of like me you know, HA!

No one here to even give me a glass of water. Pfft! I am so thirsty and parched from this freakin' desert travel!! (Not really...but it sounds so good! I am also taking drama acting and Diva lessons from Janet, btw).

It looks like I slipped up on this one so this banana is for me. Ha!  On the Beck-O-Meter scale, the Casablanca Cage did nothing for me.  I give it 1 out of 4 ice cream scoops.

Out of those Silks and into my Dance Party Chic!!

Well, enough I say with this corny Jeanie outfit!!! Let's Party elsewhere, shall we?

Becky:  "Yes, Operator, please connect me and reverse the charges.  I am calling collect to Janet Brink."

Janet: "Hello... Becky!  Are you crazy or something?  Calling me at this F**K**g #@!* Blank-et-Tee, Blank, Blank, #@!!&#%*!, God forsaken hour!!! Don't you realize that I need my beauty sleep!!!  PFFT!!"

Becky: "I am so sorry Madame Diva!  But, there must be some sort of mix up with my travel arrangements.  I have no rental car and the nice Arab man at the car rental desk told me that you rented me a camel instead of a rental car to get across the desert.  Is this true?"

"CLICK!!  BZZZZZZ....BZZZZ.....BZZZZ!!!"

Becky: "Hello, hello?  Are you there, Janet."

"BZZZZZZ....BZZZZ.....BZZZZ!!!"

Well, it just so happened that I ran into a Camel Jockey by the name of "Mohamed IchsMayl-Mussaffa" just outside of Morocco. I made a trade with him and got my convertible after all!  

I simply gave him Janet's name, photo, an I.O.U. she gave me about a year ago, and her personal cell phone number. I also happened to mention to him that she is available for on-line dating. I got back on the plane and I am headed back to some local stomping grounds.

THE VENUE: HELLO MR. COX

Well, I decided to go on-line and then started looking for some clubs to assess. I then found this club called "The Venue Nightclub."

It’s mantra is "The Venue" Nightclub, the Originator not the Imitator.” This club touts itself for having live DJ's from every corner of the globe and a beautiful atmosphere.

At first glance, I was impressed with the mega stadium-size stage wall with all of its gala graphics. It was like being in a football stadium and looking at the scoreboard for the stats and the scores. It had a good crowd there and plenty of eye candy to tease your senses.

Beauty is definitely in the eye of the beholder, because as I began scanning my camera around the club, it was surrounded by a plethora of billboards and advertisements to such an obnoxious degree that it made my head spin. If being swallowed alive by a overzealous capitalistic cow is what you think is a fun and romantic place to go, then be my guest.

It seems like a fun place if you like a little penis by the name of Mr. Cox chasing you around - or if you don’t mind unloading your purse to buy something. (I mean anything, HA!) Mr. Cox is kinda cute, but I prefer my humor slightly served well done. Certainly not overdone or pink. 

I also found the music there on the atrocious side. This might appeal to you perhaps, but it was certainly not for me.

On the Beck-O-Meter scale, The VENUE is just okay. It did not do much for me.  I give it 2 out of 4 ice cream scoops.

 AMBROSIA DANCE CLUB: CLASSIC INDOOR ENTERTAINMENT

The club that I have known the longest here in Second Life is Ambrosia Dance Club. It is open 24/7 with DJs from around the world. The music is quite diverse (as are it's patrons). It is also on an M-rated sim, so the dancers at Ambrosia do not strip. 

That appeals to me personally because I want my date (or the guy that I am dancing with) to pay more attention to me rather than get distracted by big, bare boobies jiggling in his face. HA!

Somethings never change here in Second Life. However, it appears that Ambrosia has made some good changes with it's atmosphere while at once still delivering great music, entertainment, and fun for it's patrons. Although a bit dated in its architectural aesthetics, Ambrosia is still a very fashionable and friendly place to come and dance and to let yourself go!

On the Beck-O-Meter scale, AMBROSIA rocks!  I give it 4 out of 4 ice cream scoops.

BLACK HORSE COUNTRY SALOON

I just took my cowgirl hat out of the trunk and came into the Black Horse Country Saloon. Established in 2007, it is a friendly Country Western Club featuring line dancing to some of the best Western Country and Southern Rock Music in all of Second Life. 

It is always full of people who enjoy some good ol’ Honky Tonk music in a Western saloon type of atmosphere. There are some small retail shops there that cater to your cowboy and cowgirl western wear fancies. 

They kinda' talk a bit funny here but after a while you begin to understand the western lingo drawl. So I just say,"Helo thar Ya'all! It is great t'be hyar! Fry mah hide!"

The emphasis there is dancing and listening to music. The retail element there is secondary and juxtaposed at the club for convenience and not centered as its primary focus. 

I joined in on the line dancing and had so much fun listening and shaking my butt to music from Josh Turner, Rockie Lynne, Hunter Hayes, and a full host of other great Country songs! If you come with a date, or if you are there already and asked to dance, there are some nice couple dancing spots to make your evening nice and romantic as well. 

On the Beck-O-Meter Fun gage, it definitely kicks ass!! I give it 4 out of 4 ice cream scoops.

BIG DADDY'S 80's CLUB  

       

Big Daddy’s has always been on my list of places o dance and meet people. It is definitely on the casual side playing good solid Rock n’ Roll and Pop from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Grand Funk Railroad, and Peter Frampton to name a few. 

They do promote businesses there (as they should) but again it is done with good taste and not in your face. 

Bianca Rockin' Out with her Friends and
Patrons at Big Daddy's. You Go Girl!!!

I understand that they also have “On-Air “ commercials for businesses. Very classy outdoor rock club with an on-going host of different entertainment venues. 

They even have a Pajama night there as well that sounds like an absolute blast!

While I was there, I did happen to run into the Owner, Bianca Marchant, and we had a nice chat about her business. She is a pretty diversified lady with a full line of her own merchandise and quite active in the Second Life scene. 

Anyway, the sound I found at Big Daddy’s is EXCELLENT, the staff is amazingly friendly and helpful, and the talent Bianca brings in is top-notch. I highly recommend that you go there and check the place out! For you guys looking for girls, there are plenty there! So, you can find the one that stirs your imagination, romance her, and dance to your heart’s content. 

Insofar as the Beck-O-Meter Fun gage, it is definitely 4 out of 4 ice cream scoops. I had a great time at BIG DADDY'S. (Lot's of fun guys to dance with also.)

For my next travel guide tour, I will look at Jazz Clubs. 

BTW, I am completely open to anything, so I would love to hear back from you and perhaps having you share some of your favorites with me sometime. 

In your opinion, what are some of the best places that you have been to dance and to listen to music here in SL? 

Just let me know and I will get on my horse and go visit them.