Category:

Fashion

Starting over, new beginnings

by Lina Clémence June 7, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

It’s never easy having to close a chapter and start a new one, but often necessary to evolve. When one door closes, another opens right? So you come to my site, see fresh new social media accounts with less than 100 followers, less than 50 pieces of inventory in my store and a blog with few posts and think “We have a newbie here.” But this, is my fresh start.

It’s bitter sweet being on my own with this project, which has been a vague hobby I have neglected for quite some time. Bitter, as it reminds me what starting from ground zero feels and looks like. Sweet, because now I am the only creative force and decision maker of my business. Coming from building other brands and successful businesses has its assortment of difficulties and roller coaster feelings.

I stepped away from a long-term project, having to give up years of work and the pride of developing a successful business and brand. Welcome to Raja75.com! I am quite happy to present to you my ebay store, youtube channel and blog which shares my experiences as a plus size single mom, model, and entrepreneur. .

The real challenge is changing your daily routine. Although I am performing the same essential functions, I still find myself wanting to check social media of those accounts, emails and working on creatives for my prior projects. The keyword: CHANGE. Change can be good though!

The point is, it’s not easy but sometimes necessary. I am happy to be here with you all sharing my truth, my life and my journey. Feel free to comment and SHARE your stories as well!

June 7, 2025 0 comments

Women's Fashion

Embroidered Kaftans: Tradition Meets Contemporary Fashion

by Lina Clémence June 7, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Even though fashion trends change all the time, there are always some that stay popular by mixing styles from different times. The embroidered kaftan is a great example of a classic piece of clothing that has been updated from its cultural roots to become a useful and beautiful designer kaftan dress. This essay looks at both traditional and modern embroidered kaftan and talks about how they blend the styles of different times in a clever way.

Traveling through time

The decorated kaftan, which both men and women wear, may have come from Mesopotamia in the past. As time went on, it expanded into other areas and picked up fashion and cultural styles from all over the world. In the Middle East, the kaftan came to be seen as a sign of wealth and status because of its fancy embroidery, expensive pearls, and high-quality fabrics. But in North Africa, the kaftan became a loose-fitting, colorful symbol of the lively culture of the area.

Different ways to embroider

The embroidered kaftan is known for its very detailed work. Artists usually stitched these clothes by hand, using time-consuming techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation. Embroidered designs and motifs often have cultural meaning, show how skilled the embroiderer is, and tell a story. With the help of current printing technologies, it is now possible to make a copy of the beauty of hand-stitched embroidery.

The Comeback of the Modern Kaftan

In recent years, kaftans have become more famous again, thanks in large part to the work of fashion designers who use them in their designs. The embroidered kaftan dress has changed from a trendy fashion dress to a modern version of the traditional robe.

Multiple-functioning Accessory

The embroidery kaftan has been popular for a long time, in part because it can be worn in different ways. There is a kaftan for everything, whether you want to relax at home, go to a wedding in the summer, or just go for a walk on the beach. The kaftan is great for warm weather and laid-back events because it is made of a light fabric and has a loose fit.

Kaftan dresses with embroidery

Dresses like beaded kaftans are always in style now. The shapes and patterns of these dresses are modern, but they still have a nod to traditional embroidery methods. In designer kaftans, feminine details like nipped waists, uneven hemlines, and detailed necklines are added to the basic kaftan shape to make it look fancier.

Respect for Individual Differences

The fact that people from many different cultures can wear the stitched kaftan adds to its appeal. The designs for kaftans come from all over the world. Each artist gets ideas from their own culture as well as from other cultures they’ve seen. There is a perfect embroidered kaftan for everyone thanks to the variety of colors, patterns, and styles that come from the mixing of many different cultures.

Choosing to Stick Around

In today’s world, where caring for the earth is becoming more and more important, kaftans have many benefits. The open fit of these clothes lets the fabric be used to its fullest without wasting much. Embroidered kaftans also help the fashion business be better for the earth because they are less likely to be thrown away after one season.

Embroidering designs on Kaftan necklaces

Accessories are another way that a kaftan with embroidery can be made unique. You can wear these dresses with so many different accessories that they are very flexible. Wide-brimmed hats and flip-flops are great for a day at the park, but for a night out on the town, you need flashy jewelry and high heels.

Conclusion

The embroidered kaftan has been worn as a robe for a long time and has a rich past. Today, it is a popular fashion item. Designer kaftans are both stylish and comfy because they mix traditional and modern design elements. Embroidered kaftans are here to stay, showing that some fashion trends are truly timeless because they are easy to wear, last a long time, and come in many different styles.

June 7, 2025 0 comments

Sustainable Fashion

My Clergy Closet | A Cat and Tabi Flats : Clergy Closet (formerly StyleWise Blog)

by Lina Clémence June 6, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Somehow I have still failed to photograph an outfit in a clergy shirt, despite this blog being entitled Clergy Closet. I think it’s because I wear a collar on “serious” work days: for long Sundays or on-call weeks or pastoral meetings. On those days, I’m tired when I get home and ready for PJs.

In contrast, today I worked from home in the morning finishing up a lot of office work and communications stuff. In the afternoon, I taught our Music Director some hymns he didn’t know, had a brief meeting with the Head of School, and then headed back to my home office to finish a sermon draft. Still a long day, but without having to be “on” all the time.

I finally bought these tabi flats from Lisa Says Gah and couldn’t be happier. They are super comfortable – way more comfortable than they looked online – and don’t feel too “loud” to wear on a regular workday.

The first day I wore them, a kid from the pre-school stopped on the way back from the playground and refused to go back to her classroom until she could tell me she liked them. She was wearing gold glitter maryjanes with cat ears on them, so we were both wearing awesome shoes that day.

I thrifted this shirt, but linked a similar one below.

Here’s what I’m wearing, or close approximations:

These are affiliate links and I may make a small commission should you choose to make a purchase.

June 6, 2025 0 comments

Luxury Fashion

What types of fabric you can use for embroidery on clothes?

by Lina Clémence June 6, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Source

When you look in your closet, you feel depressed because all of your clothes look so boring. You want to do something to liven your wardrobe up but cannot afford new threads. Hence, you have decided to rejuvenate your old duds and add flair to them, by using embroidery on clothes.

You have always admired embroidered designs when you see them on other people’s clothes, and you wonder if that wouldn’t be the simplest way to change your style. Embroidery can definitely give your wardrobe a whole new look, but some articles of clothing will not look good embroidered. According to Printful, you should only put embroidery on certain types of fabric.

What kind of fabric should I use for embroidery on clothes?

Natural woven fabrics are considered the best for embroidery. It is not a good idea to embroider fabric that is very lightweight. The fabric will not be able to stand up to the embroidery thread, and it will either get snagged or weighed down. An embroidered design may look lopsided on a shirt made of fabric that is too lightweight.

100% cotton is a good fabric to use for embroidery. You can make an article of clothing, pillowcase, or blanket out of cotton, or you can simply buy an item and add embroidery to it. Cotton comes in many different colors, so you will have plenty of choices when looking for the perfect canvas for your design.

Bear in mind that cotton tends to shrink when you wash it, so you should always make an article of clothing a size or two larger than you want it to be.

Canvas

Canvas is an inexpensive and eco-friendly option for making shoes, tote bags, and backpacks. Canvas holds embroidery very well and also makes an excellent backdrop for colorful threads. Canvas can be made of either cotton or linen. You may find some synthetic canvas, but it is best to stick to natural fibers.

Canvas is thicker than other kinds of material, so it can be difficult to embroider on canvas because it is not as pliable as other materials. You may want to use a sewing machine or embroidery machine when you put a design on canvas.

There are on-demand printing companies that can handle the needlework for you. All you have to do is upload a design to the printing company’s website and then select the article of clothing, accessory, or novelty item on which you would like the design to appear. A computerized embroidery machine will flawlessly stitch the design onto the item of your choice. The company will then ship it out to you.

Denim

Denim is one of the most popular kinds of fabric to embroider. You will see embroidered designs on the backs of jean jackets and on tote bags made of denim. You will also see small embroidered accents used as trim on jean jackets and blue jeans.

Denim is a very rigid fabric and it will not move much when you sew on it. It is not very pliable and some stitches may be hard to create. You should always wash a denim jacket with embroidery on it inside out.

Embroidery on clothes can liven up the dullest of wardrobes, but knowing what material to use can save you time and money.

June 6, 2025 0 comments

Plus Size Fashion

5 Products I’m Testing At The Moment & Loving

by Lina Clémence June 6, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

These products were sent to me complimentary from Influenster

I went from being the person who knew their skin and what worked for it. To become all confused because it changes every day. I guess you can say I’m on a long road to finding my holy grail products again. But I’m a trooper who has an open mind and testing new products is something I enjoy. I know the dermatologist out there are probably cringing right now but let’s talk about these 5 products I’m testing at the moment and loving.

(to be completely transparent, I have been testing these products for over two months)

Garnier Smoothing Milk Wash in Hyalu-Melon- I was thinking back to all of the face washes I tried/tested in my life and I have never used something like this before. It’s very different in a really good way. Right out the bottle, it’s the look and consistency as any other face wash. Once you add water to it and apply it to your face, that’s when the magic happens. It smells so good and feels baby soft and gentle. It’s a little hard to explain, it’s really something that I suggest testing out. I could possibly be a little late to the milk wash game (I know in Asian beauty they have a lot of milk products.) I just really want to test more from this line or something like it because I am really in love. I do use this product mainly in the mornings if you were wondering.

Garnier Replumping Serum Cream in Hyalu- Melon- This product goes with the first product I mentioned. I basically refer to it as the little big sister. Only because they go together like peanut butter and jelly. I have tested using using other serum and creams after washing my face with the milk wash and nothing works as good as this product. A little bit goes a really long way. It will fill a little thick at first but when you rub it in smothes out really nicely and leaves a really smooth soft finish.

ChapStick Total Hydration in Peachy Keen- I was very skeptical about this product at first. Chapstick is a very well known classic brand and that wasn’t the problem. It’s just usually when I use balms that have a tent it tends to not show in the color it’s supposed to be in or t shows it in a color that looks completely horrible on my pigmented lips. Today I’m here to let you know that I didn’t have these problems at all with this product or shade. It looks incredible on my lips and iv been wearing it on days where I don’t want to go on full lipstick. There is SPF in this product and it is moisturizing but the one negative thing is after a while you will notice it clumping up on your lips. At that point, I wipe it off and then re-apply it. It could also be that my lips are really dry and that’s causing it to happen but for the high price of $7USD I don’t want any problems. but I still love the product.

Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Toner + Serum- Completly love the texture and bottle design of this product. For a toner and serum in one, the way that this bottle works is pure genius! All the other ways we have been applying our toner and serums is just really messy and we have learned to just deal with it. Once you start to use this product, you will the have a life changing moment and want all of your products in a bottle like this. I do use this product at night if I’m not using the next product I’m about to mention.

BareMinerals Skinlongevity Long Life Herb Serum- For the longest time I couldn’t figure ou how to take off the cap. It looks like it twist up but really you just pull it off. Out of all the products I mentioned today, this is the one that I fill is doing to most to better my skin and make it look tired. The only thing is I feel like I need the whole line (if there even is one) basically a matching face wash and moisturizer. I feel like if I had those, this could be my holy grail face cleaning products. I cant tell you how much healthier and younger my skin looks after applying this. It also smooths it an I don’t get that oily look throughout the day. It is on the pricy side but I’m telling you its worth it.

June 6, 2025 0 comments

Plus Size Fashion

Quarantine Weight Gain: My Story

by Lina Clémence June 6, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

I have always struggled with my weight and I have talked about it a lot on FashionShyChild. During this past year now, I have noticed a big difference in my weight and not in a great way. I know a lot of you all can relate that this pandemic and quarantine has opened your eyes to a lot of things. Don’t get me wrong, some things have been great and a good wake-up call and learning experiences. But I know focusing on the positives for just my mental health has let me forget about eating right and getting the exercise I need.

Let’s just start from the begging of the pandemic and quartine.

During the beginning everything was okay and it didn’t affect me like it did a lot of people since I stay home anyways with my daughter. We did have some changes like going to the park and the library throughout the week (I do walk to these locations and the Library is already 40 min walk away). So that stopped and just left us with walking sometimes around our neighborhood.

Another big change has to do with medication. This particular medication is birth control. I don’t talk about sexual health on here and maybe that’s something that should change, let me know. But I’m very open and birth control can have a lot of changes, that can affect a lot of different things. Before the pandemic, I was on the shot and also known as Depo. This form of birth control has been a big part of my life and a big part of my weight gain and hardship with the effect it has on my body. But I did get off of it during the beginning of quarantine because I didn’t want to have to go to the doctor’s office just to get a shot. So now I’m on the pill to make a long story short. Like I said if you want to know more, I can film a video or do a whole blog post on the topic.

Everything didn’t hit me till the end of November when I had a doctor’s appt. I try hard not to think about the scale before the appt because we all know it’s coming. I can remember stepping on that scale and seeing the number and in my head being in disbelief and about to cry. I could not believe I gained 30lbs. But I’m also very happy I have an amazing OBGYN who noticed my weight chart go up and was very nice about understanding what happened and how I can go about fixing this with exercise and good eating habits. Sometimes you just need that understanding person who can relate to you and even share their struggles and what worked to help you out.

So now you might be wondering, “what’s the plan to fix this?” I have spent a lot of time trying to figure out how to get to a happy-weight place. My main thing now is just applying it. I do want to try some diets out and see how those work for me. The main diet I want to try out is Keto. I have been seeing it around a lot and know carbs are a huge problem I have (the OBGYN also suggested cutting carbs and calories in our long talk). Have you tried keto? I already intermittent fast and I do that naturally. I will be using the Lose It! app to track my meals and my planner to track my weight, water, and steps. I just want this to work, so I can feel comfortable in my body again.

June 6, 2025 0 comments

Women's Fashion

Father’s Day Gift Guide 2025: Ideas for Husbands, Sons, and More

by Lina Clémence June 6, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Father’s Day is a special time to celebrate the men we love. No matter who you’re shopping for (your husbands, son, father, grandfather, etc), you’ll find something on this list of ideas that is both thoughtful and practical. Whether he loves the outdoors, appreciates a good gadget, or simply enjoys a little rest and relaxation, there’s something here for every kind of dad. I hope this gift guide helps you find the perfect way to show your love and appreciation this Father’s Day.

Want more ideas? Last year’s Father’s Day Gift Guide has some great options too: Father’s Day Gifts He’ll Actually Love

Father’s Day Gift Guide 2025

Palmetto Golf Handmade Needlepoint American Flag Golf Belt

This handmade needlepoint belt is so beautiful. With rich cowhide leather backing and a solid brass buckle, it’s a timeless piece that he will wear for years and years!

WHAT TO BUY FOR FATHER'S DAY, BEST GIFTS FOR DAD

YETI Hopper Portable Soft Cooler

Perfect for beach days, golf outings, or backyard barbecues, this YETI cooler keeps drinks cold for hours and is built tough for real-life use. It’s leakproof, easy to carry, and made to handle all of summer’s adventures. He’ll use it way more than he thinks!

GIFTS FOR GOLFERS, FATHER'S DAY PRESENT FOR GOLF LOVER

Golf Cooler Bag and Ice Packs

This slim cooler fits right into his golf bag and keeps drinks chilled for hours. It holds six cans and comes with ice packs, so it’s ready to go from day one. A fun, practical gift for the golfer who has everything.

Grampa’s Weeder: The Original Stand Up Weed Puller Tool

This garden tool has been around for over a hundred years, and it’s still going strong! If your husband or dad enjoys working in the yard but doesn’t want to spend the day bending over, this stand-up weeder is such a great solution. It makes pulling weeds quick, easy, and surprisingly satisfying, no chemicals or backaches required.

COMFORTABLE SNEAKERS FOR DAD SON BROTHER GRANDPA FOR FATHER'S DAY 2025

Cole Haan GrandMotion Stitchlite Woven Sneaker

These lightweight sneakers are perfect for summer travel, errands, or casual outings. The breathable woven design keeps feet cool, and the cushioned sole adds comfort without bulk. A great upgrade if he’s still wearing the same old pair from years ago!

BLUETOOTH SPEAKER FOR CONSTRUCTION HANDY MAN RUGGED MEN

DEWALT Wearable Bluetooth Speaker

This rugged little speaker clips right onto a belt, backpack, or tool bag and plays his favorite tunes or podcast while he works or relaxes. It’s Bluetooth-enabled and weather-resistant, making it ideal for projects in the garage, grilling in the backyard, or even just walking the dog.

Ninja Woodfire Series 7-in-1 (Grill, BBQ, Roast, Air Fry, Dehydrate, Broil, Smoke)

This all-in-one outdoor cooker serves as a grill, smoker, air fryer, and more. If he loves trying new gadgets or already considers himself a grill master, this will take his weekend meals to the next level.

Skylight Frame WiFi Digital Picture Frame

Such a sweet gift for the dad who already has everything, constantly updated photos of the people he loves most! You can upload pictures straight from your phone, and they show up like magic on this sleek digital frame. It’s especially perfect for dads and grandfathers who don’t live nearby. A meaningful gift he’ll treasure every single day.

Password Book

If he’s always forgetting logins (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), this little password book is a lifesaver. It’s discreet, organized, and designed to keep all those hard-to-remember details in one place, no more scribbled Post-it notes!

Digital Tape Measure

For the guy who loves tools and tech, this digital tape measure is a fun and useful upgrade. It’s accurate, waterproof, and even stores previous measurements, perfect for DIY projects or weekend builds. And if he’s starting to squint at those tiny little lines on a traditional tape measure, this one’s easy on the eyes!

WAHT TO BUY FOR A BUSINESS MAN, MAN WHO TRAVELS OFTEN

Garment Bag for Travel

If he ever finds himself traveling for business (or even weddings, funerals, etc.), this garment bag makes packing dress clothes so much easier. It’s carry-on size, water-resistant, and keeps shirts, suits, and jackets wrinkle-free!

FISHING TOOLS, ANGLER GIFT, OUTDOORSY MAN PRESENT

HOOK-EZE Fishing Knot Tying Tool

If he loves to fish but struggles with tying tiny, slippery knots, this clever little tool will be his new best friend. It makes tying secure fishing knots fast and easy, eliminating dropped lines and the risk of stabbing your fingers with a hook. Great for beginners and seasoned anglers alike.

Westinghouse ePX3500 Electric Pressure Washer

This electric pressure washer makes cleaning the driveway, patio, or even the car so much easier—and a little more fun, too. With strong pressure and a compact design, it’s perfect for tackling outdoor messes without dragging out heavy equipment.

Shop More Father’s Day Gifts for 2025:

Thank you for taking the time out of your day to stop by my blog. I’m also on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.

Beauty For the Heart®- Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. Proverbs 3:7

I’ll be honest, sometimes I think I know best. I can make a list, map out a plan, and move full speed ahead, all before I’ve really stopped to talk to God about it. It’s easy to slip into that mindset of “I’ve got this.”

God gently reminds us in this verse that being “wise in our own eyes” is not what He’s called us to. He’s called us to trust.

He’s asking us to honor Him above everything else, and to turn away from anything evil that leads us in the wrong direction. It means guarding our hearts, being careful with our choices, and seeking what’s holy over what’s easy or popular.

If you’re feeling like you have to carry all the weight or make all the right decisions, slow down for a moment and pray. You don’t have to do it all on your own. Let God lead. He sees what we don’t, and His wisdom is always better than ours.

Let your beauty shine from the inside out today!

*Disclosure: The links in this post are affiliate links, meaning I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. Thank you so much for your support!

June 6, 2025 0 comments

Sustainable Fashion

Explore the Top 10 Pokies Online Australia at Pocket Pokies

by Lina Clémence June 5, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

When it comes to online gambling, particularly in Australia, Pocket Pokies for real money are all the rage. These digital slot machines offer a thrilling gaming experience right from the comfort of your own home. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose where to play. That’s why we’ve curated a list of the top 10 pokies available at Pocket Pokies, each offering unique features and exciting gameplay.

What are online pokies?

Online pokies, also known as online slots, are digital versions of the classic slot machines found in casinos around the world. Instead of physical reels, these games utilize sophisticated software to generate random outcomes. Players place bets and spin the reels with the hope of landing winning combinations and triggering bonus features.

The concept of online pokies is relatively simple, making them accessible to players of all skill levels. The basic gameplay involves spinning the reels and matching symbols across paylines to win prizes. However, many online pokies also feature bonus rounds, free spins, and other exciting features that add an extra layer of depth and excitement to the gameplay.

Furthermore, online pokies are designed to be visually appealing, with vibrant colors, detailed animations, and engaging themes. This attention to detail helps to create an immersive gaming experience that transports players to a virtual world where anything is possible. Combined with the thrill of potentially winning big, it’s easy to see why online pokies have become so popular among Australian players.

Why are online pokies popular in Australia?

There are several reasons why online pokies have become so popular in Australia. First and foremost is the convenience factor. With online pokies, players can enjoy their favorite games anytime, anywhere, without having to travel to a physical casino. Additionally, online pokies often offer a wider variety of games than their land-based counterparts, giving players more options to choose from.

Moreover, online pokies are easily accessible to a wide range of players. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a complete novice, you can quickly learn the ropes and start playing in no time. Many online casinos also offer free-play versions of their pokies, allowing players to try them out risk-free before wagering real money. This makes online pokies an attractive option for those looking to dip their toes into the world of online gambling.

Furthermore, online pokies offer the potential for massive payouts. Many games feature progressive jackpots that continue to grow until they are won, offering players the chance to win life-changing sums of money with a single spin. This potential for big wins adds an extra level of excitement and anticipation to the gameplay, keeping players coming back for more.

Here’s a breakdown of the player demographics in Australian online pokies:

Demographic	Percentage	Rural Percentage
Male	65%	40%
Female	35%	60%
Age 18-34	45%	30%
Age 35-54	40%	45%
Age 55+	15%	25%

How to Play Online Pokies

First things first, you’ll need to choose a reputable online casino to play at. Look for a site that is licensed and regulated, offers a wide selection of pokies, and provides a secure gaming environment. Researching online reviews and recommendations from other players can help you narrow down your options and find a casino that meets your criteria. Once you’ve found a casino that you’re comfortable with, it’s time to create an account. This process typically involves providing some basic personal information, such as your name, email address, and date of birth. Once your account is set up, you’ll need to make a deposit to fund your gaming sessions. Most online casinos offer a variety of deposit options, including credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers, making it easy to get started.

Online pokies come in many shapes and sizes, but the basic gameplay remains the same. You’ll typically find a set of reels with various symbols on them. Your goal is to spin the reels and match identical symbols across active paylines to win prizes. Each symbol has its own value, and the more identical symbols you land in a row, the bigger your payout will be. Additionally, many online pokies feature special symbols like wilds and scatters, which can unlock bonus features and increase your winnings. Wild symbols act as substitutes for other symbols, helping you create winning combinations more easily. Scatter symbols, on the other hand, can trigger bonus rounds or free spins, giving you even more chances to win big.

One of the most important aspects of playing online pokies is managing your bankroll effectively. Setting a budget for yourself before you start playing can help you avoid overspending and ensure that you’re playing responsibly. Determine how much money you can afford to lose and stick to that amount. It’s also a good idea to set limits on how much you’re willing to bet per spin and how long you plan to play for. Once you’ve reached your predetermined limits, it’s time to stop playing and walk away. Avoid the temptation to chase losses or wager more than you can afford, as this can lead to financial problems and ruin the fun of playing online pokies.

While online pokies are primarily games of chance, there are strategies you can employ to maximize your winnings. One strategy is to choose games with high payout percentages, as these games are more likely to pay out larger sums of money over time. Additionally, look for games that offer generous bonus features, such as free spins, multipliers, and bonus rounds. These features can significantly increase your chances of winning big and add an extra layer of excitement to the gameplay. Another strategy is to take advantage of promotions and bonuses offered by online casinos. Many casinos offer welcome bonuses, loyalty rewards, and other incentives to attract new players and keep existing ones coming back for more. By taking advantage of these offers, you can boost your bankroll and extend your playing time, increasing your chances of walking away a winner.

As with any skill, practice is key to mastering online pokies. Take advantage of free-play versions of games to familiarize yourself with their mechanics and features before wagering real money. Experiment with different strategies and betting patterns to see what works best for you. Pay attention to how different features and bonus rounds affect your gameplay and adjust your strategy accordingly. With time and experience, you’ll become a seasoned pokies player capable of making informed decisions and maximizing your winnings. Remember, there’s no substitute for practice, so don’t be afraid to spend some time honing your skills before diving into the world of real-money online pokies.

Factors considered in choosing the top 10 pokies

When it comes to selecting the top 10 pokies for our platform at Pocket Pokies, we leave no stone unturned. Our goal is to provide players with the most thrilling and rewarding gaming experience possible. To achieve this, we carefully consider a variety of factors to ensure that each game we feature meets the highest standards of quality, fairness, and entertainment value:

Overall Popularity: We analyzed data on player engagement and retention to identify pokies that have captured the attention of a large audience.
Payout Percentage: Ensuring players have a fair chance of winning, we prioritized games with high payout percentages.
Graphics and Sound Effects: Immersive visuals and captivating sound effects enhance the gaming experience, so we selected pokies with superior quality in these aspects.
Variety of Bonus Features: Players enjoy diversity and excitement, so we favored games with a wide range of bonus features, such as free spins, multipliers, and interactive mini-games.
Reputation of Developers: Partnering with reputable game developers ensures reliability and innovation, guiding our selection process towards established and trusted creators.

In addition to these factors, player feedback and reviews were integral to our decision-making process. By listening to the preferences and experiences of our players, we ensured that the top 10 pokies selected resonate with a wide range of tastes and preferences, offering an enjoyable gaming experience for all.

June 5, 2025 0 comments

Luxury Fashion

2025 Will Be An All White Year – The Insider UAE

by Lina Clémence June 5, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

The White Company offers a guide to the very best of simple yet stylish living in 2025

To say we are huge fans of The White Company would be an understatement. So it’s with much (much) enthusiasm that we step into 2025 with The White Company’s signature minimalist home and lifestyle essentials. Because you can just never have too much.

Here’s our pick of the best White Company products to elevate everyday moments this year.

Comfort Redefined: Towels and Bath Accessories

Upgrade daily routines with luxurious Cotton Towels and Face Cloths that radiate spa-like elegance. Add
a refined touch to any bathroom with soft Bathmats, bringing warmth and comfort. These essentials can
transform any space into a serene retreat, offering both relaxation and timeless style.

Restful Nights: Bedding and Pillows

Create a sleep sanctuary with luxurious Flat Sheets and Fitted Sheets. Complement these with Duvet
Covers and Plush Pillows for ultimate comfort, and finish the look with Classic and Oxford Pillowcases fora perfect blend of style and refinement.

Luxury Sleep Essentials: Robes and Slippers

Wrap up in comfort with The White Company’s luxurious Robes, designed for ultimate relaxation and
elegance. Pair them with soft, cozy Slippers — these sleep essentials set the perfect tone for unwinding and preparing for a restful night’s sleep.

Serene Spaces: Candles and Diffusers

Elevate living spaces with The White Company’s Candles, Diffusers, and Room Sprays. Signature scents
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June 5, 2025 0 comments

Plus Size Fashion

Life These Days in South Korea: May 22-June 1, 2025

by Lina Clémence June 5, 2025

written by Lina Clémence

Thursday, May 22

I finally, after what felt like a 97-hour journey, arrived back home to the goshiwon at 3am. Like the trip to Japan, this one also had many moving parts for me to be anxious about. And I was too anxious to try to take my anti-anxiety meds with me, so…

The ferry from Japan arrived in Busan, South Korea around 12:30pm. Then there’s the whole immigration/customs process, about which I was Very Nervous – what if they said NOPE, you can’t come back in. Technically, they can do that. They don’t need grounds. They can deny admission (admission?) to anyone they want. So it was a relief to get through there with no problems. Ferry security is a little less High Pressure on the whole security thing anyway.

I discovered my phone was not working…the international plan I’d set up with Verizon had ended…and apparently immigration notifies the phone services immediately, that I am no longer a resident and so my Korean phone number will be cancelled. It was actually a little confusing if it was being shut down now or not til June 16 (random date). My automatic billing date is the 22nd, which is today, so we’ll see what happens. If I lose the Korean phone number I will probably also lose grocery and food delivery…and maybe some other things I’m not even thinking of.

So – No Phone = SUPER ANXIETY for me. No phone in an unfamilar place? acjnSCHNwknciuaxjnqs12iuey9327r8ufjwnc.

Fortunately, there were taxis right outside the ferry port and I got someone to (slightly begrudgingly) take me to the express bus terminal (it’s 45 mins from the ferry). I got there 2 hours before the bus to Seoul was due to depart and since Busan is not Seoul, there were only a few little independent food places and they were all getting ready to close up shop. I managed to get a corn dog and a kitkat so at least I didn’t starve to death while I was waiting.

What I DID do while waiting, was reach out to Verizon to see if I could restart the international plan for a few more days while I got my Korean phone number sorted out. She was like, why don’t you go on the Ultimate Unlimited Plan which offers unlimited international service to 210+ countries and it’s only $1 more than your current plan??

Uh, YEAH, why DON’T I go on that? Why didn’t anyone offer me that when I first moved to Korea? Why didn’t anyone offer me that just last week when I signed up for the $12/day International Plan?? Sigh. Anyway. That’s a relief to have. I still need a Korean phone number for some things here, but if I can’t get my permanent number sorted out I’ll just have to get a Korean sim card with a tempory number. It won’t allow me to order groceries/food, but…

Anyway. Finally the bus came and it was super luxe. It was a 4-hour trip from 10pm-2am. We had a slight delay with an elderly woman who was crying, then screaming, then scooted on her butt on the floor up to the driver…he tried calling someone…she finally calmed down and walked back to her seat and we carried on. I never understood what the problem was. All I could make out was him saying “please don’t cry.” Thank you 18mos of Korean language school.

Again, when I got to Seoul, even though it was after 2am, there were taxis right out front, so there was no transportation issue. I walked into mmy room around 3:30am and was like WHAT HAPPENED HERE?!?

Then I remembered that, because I had to have the landlady in while I was away to fix my sink, I had REALLY cleaned up before I left. I just didn’t recognize it so neat! But what a nice surprise that was!

I’d rescheduled my dr’s appt for this morning cuz I knew it would just be too much to get up and out that early the morning after All That Traveling…so I just took it easy today.

I was supposed to go tonight to a kpop concert at my school…my building friend Kim likes one of the girl groups, and I thought it would be fun to see Psy (“Gangnam Style”) in person, but…I just did not have it in me to stand in line from 2pm to get seats for a show that didn’t start til 8pm. From my window I could hear when they cheered for Psy, it was so loud!

And now I am officially a language school dropout and just a “tourist” in Korea. I booked my flight to LA for Aug 8, so that’s like 11 weeks. I want to re-do my “to do” list so I make sure when I leave I’ve done all the things I’ve most wanted to do.

And I’m sorta looking forward to being in the states for a bit…I’m house/pet sitting for my niece when she and her family go to Hawaii for 11 days. It’ll be nice to stay in a super comfortable house with a car!!! While I’ve spent a ton of time in LA over my lifetime, I’m really never there independently so I’m making a list of things I want to do while I’m there. After a couple weeks there I’ll head to San Antonio to stay with other family for a couple weeks…and then finish up in Florida with Katie for the last month…then be back in Japan for November 1.

Friday, May 23

I’d sorta had plans today just locally, just with myself. But when I woke up I was so congested, I didn’t want to be out in public trying not to sniff or cough or blow my nose. It’s 3:00 in the afternoon and I’ve gone through over half a roll of toilet paper with nose blowing. Enough Already! I’ve had this cold since April 14!!!

I spent the day in my nightgown (yay) working on a couple blog posts for the next few weeks. It’s so nice to be able to spend more time working on posts without feeling guilty that I’m not studying.

I’m trying to post more consistently about life in Korea…vs just MY life in Korea…and things related to traveling, travel on a budget, traveling with anxiety, etc. Eventually I’ll take these same topics to other countries.

Is there anything in particular about Korea or traveling on the cheap that you’re interested in, that I can write about while I’m still here?

Saturday, May 24

Did I do anything today? Not really. Worked on a weekly “itinerary” for my weeks so I don’t just laze my days away. It’s very general so far – now I have to prepare lots of STUFF. It starts Monday.

Sunday, May 25

I headed out this morning on an easy mission. An apartment building being taken over by climbing roses in the neighboring town, Seongsu, and I wanted to take pictures. Then to a donut place I’ve been wanting to try for ages. And on the way home stop at the phone store to see about extending my phone number the rest of the time I’m here.

From the bus on the way to Seongsu I could see the phone store wasn’t open. I’d suspected it might be closed on Sundays. I found the climbing roses easily enough. But I got to the donut store an hour before opening (at 11:30am). Interestingly, regular restaurants open early in the morning, but donut shops and many cafes not til later, closer to noon. And I don’t care for spicy stew first thing in the morning. So I walked around for half an hour looking for somewhere I could sit inside, but found nothing. All the chain coffee shops (Starbucks, Mega Coffee, etc) are out on the big main streets and I was deeper inside the neighborhood. And already felt I was reaching my walking limit. So with another half hour to go I said oh forget it and headed back to the bus stop.

Which was right next to an open chain coffee shop. Of course, ha. I headed home anyway. Stopped at the convenience store when I got off the bus. I wanted a sandwich. I got what I thought was ham and cheese. But was actually ham, cheese, and crab. Like a crab spread. They always put something on sandwiches that I don’t think belongs.

Monday, May 26

I went with my school/building friend, G, to get his hair cut. I had a couple things to get in the mall so I didn’t mind going along with him. But ArtBox, where I was going to get new pens, was closed…and the market didn’t have the roasted chicken I was looking for, so…I was forced to sit in Starbucks with a bagel and a Grapefruit Honey Black Iced Tea. Life’srough.

Since that was my outing for the day, the rest of the day was spent indoors making my list of things I want to do/accomplish this week, and a nap while listening to a new book I’m not crazy about.

I have a very limited selection of audiobooks. I refuse to pay $$$ for them. Mostly I listen on Spotify but most of the books I want to read are longer than the 10-hour limit so then I have to wait til the next month to finish and that’s annoying. One month when I was reading something I was really enjoying, I paid extra to get extra hours…and what’s unused is supposed to carry over from month-to-month, but now I can’t figure out how to access them again.

I can’t get Libby set-up again til I’m back in the states.

But I had some books on Chirp that I bought long ago when I was a heavy audiobook user (whenn I was driving 100 miles a day to and from work), so I’m working my way through those. Even though so far I’m not loving them.

Tuesday, May 27

Headed over to the phone store to see about extending my Korean phone # the rest of the time I’m here. It said online it opened at 9am. I got there at 9:30, not open. I waited til 10:15. No one ever showed up. There wasn’t like a coffee shop or anything in the area to hang out in…and the sun was hot while I was just standing out on the street. So I went home. I’ll try again after my eye appointment on Thursday.

I came back and spent some time updating my Korean Anki (flashcard app) decks to continue learning more vocabulary. And spent an hour on my first Japanese lesson. Whoa. THREE different alphabets, all used for different things…like within the same sentence. I thought it was confusing (and it is!) that in Korean they use two sets of numbers. One for like counting, and the other for like telling time, etc. And even with time, you used one set for hour, and the other set for minute. I was forever getting numbers mixed up.

I finished the really long remote work project I’ve been working on for over a month.

Napped. Scrambled eggs and sausage for dinner. Finished a cute Japanese drama.

Wednesday, May 28

Not sure what happened. My alarm was set for 6am, I wanted to go to a rose garden while the light was still low and there wouldn’t be many people there. I don’t remember ever hearing the alarm, but I woke up around 8:30 with the alarm set to snooze.

So, I opted for a lazy stay-in day.

And then proceeded to spend three hours, with the help of ChatGPT, to try and fix my blog emails that have not been sending for some time. Do any of you still get them? Every step required 2-3 pre-steps. Ugh. I hate things like this…and in the past (and why it hasn’t been working for so long) I would say “oh I don’t have time for that right now.” But now I do…so I’m hell bent on fixing it. It’s still in process, but…I’ll get there.

I just got a new work assignment, so I’ll spend the afternoon on that. Oh, it’s already 3pm. I haven’t had any lunch. I’ll eat and then get to work.

I feel really relaxed these past few days. It’s good.

Thursday, May 29

Alrighty. Guess what I get to do next week??

ANOTHER EYE SURGERY.

Not the originally planned procedure to remove the silicone oil…but an all new surgery because the retina is detaching again. A different, more complicated procedure that hopefully (knock on wood) should hold this time.

And…after I went through all that back and forth about my insurance before I headed to Japan (cuz remember I lose the Korean National Insurance when I’m not a student anymore)…and ended up paying $500+ for an international medical insurance for three months….today they said I’m still on the Korean insurance. I was like that’s a mistake, they called them, I spoke with a woman AT the National Health Insurance. I explained about no longer being on a D4 visa, that now I was a tourist and I had a new “leave by” date. She was like, as far as we’re concerned, as long as you keep making your payments, you’re on the insurance until August 23. So. That’s good. And now I’m trying to see if I can get any refund on the International insurance…if they say no, I’ll ask if I can just change my end date, and apply the insurance to the next time I leave the US.

But in the meantime, even WITH insurance it’s still $$$ out of pocket. And I’m really hating the Korean hospital experience. The useless pain meds, the uncomfortable hospital costume, the food. And then the whole two-weeks-face-down again. And the painful eye and the endless eyedrops.

Ugh.

So, my day, that I thought was going to be an hour going through follow-up testing at the hospital, then a trip to the phone store to get my number sorted out, turned into five sweaty hours running around in the hospital ($250) for pre-surgical testing and then home to collapse.

Friday, May 30

My alarm was set for 6am…but I woke up at 5am to lovely light…so went ahead and got up and headed to Daeyeonsan Rose Garden. I started out on the bus, but the second bus never came (sometimes the app says the bus will arrive in just a few minutes…but the signage at the bus stop says it’s going to arrive in like 52 minutes. I’ll wait for the earliest one, but if it doesn’t come, I reroute myself or sometimes – like today – end up in an uber). The driver got me to the general area, not understanding I wanted the rose gardren, not just the park entrance. And I did not realize the rose garden was up a hill. And stairs. Sigh.

All of Korea is up hills. Amd stairs.

Anyway, I made it. And it was well worth it.

I’ll just share a couple pictures here cuz I’m going to do a separate post on the garden itself.

I got pretty emotional, sitting there taking in the beauty. My sister and I used to love going on summer garden tours and we especially enjoyed old and climbing roses. I was grateful it was early and there weren’t that many people around.

And when I left I had to walk up another, super steep hill to the bus stop. It was one of the micro-local busses and it was such a fun ride going up and down steep steep, narrow, winding roads…with someone else driving, ha ha.

The rest of the day was spent doing remote work, editing rose pictures, and studying Japanese. With a mid-day nap 🙂

Other than ^(*#U^@!! eye surgery, I’m finally enjoying retirement. I despise obligations. Sometimes even when they’re my own. I don’t want anything to impinge on My Time.

Saturday, May 31

Another month’s end. Just two full months and 8 days left in Korea. And my stupid eye will take up close to one of those months…with surgery, face-down time, then just general discomfort time. I’m really aggravated but what are you gonna do. But I can hardly believe that’s all the time I have left!

In more stupid news, I finally got to the phone store and was told no, I cannot extend my phone number/service til I leave Korea in August. I will have to get a new Korean sim card with a new Korean phone number. I told him not today, cuz a) according to the text from the phone company, I have two more weeks til they shut me down, and b) maybe, just maybe, the phone company will follow suit with the insurance company and just keep me turned on as long as I’m paying. It’s worth a shot. And frankly I don’t even know that I need a Korean sim card at this point as I have the international plan now from Verizon and have unlimted international data, talk, text on my US phone number.

And I’m not entirely sure I’ll lose food and grocery delivery. I needed the phone number to set them up…but now they go through my Korean bank for the money…and I’m still able to move money into the Korean bank without the Korean phone number, so…I’m not sure if immigration just notifies everyplace (like they did the phone co) and says NO MORE CHICKEN FOR HER.

Anyway, that was my little outing for the day. Other than that, just remote work, photo editing, chatting with a NY friend on Instagram…

Sunday, June 1

I mostly just grumbled to myself about having to go to the hospital tomorrow for TWO DAYS before they even do the surgery. I Do Not Understand. I’m taking my laptop and to-do list and will find somewhere with desk.counter seating and at least get some work done. Once the eye is surgered it’s hard to do much of anything involving seeing for awhile.

I finally got onto the Medicare site thinking there was gonna be a whole rigamorole to get signed up, but no. It’s pretty much automatic if you’re only doing the first two levels (Plans A & B), and that’s all I’m doing for the time being as most of my time, at least for the coming year, will be spent out of the country.

Laundry, putting away a Coupang order, straightening up the room so a) it will be nice when I come back exhausted and b) in case they need to come in while I’m gone. Last year this is the week they cleaned all the air conditioners, so…

And it’s June. Happy June.

Wish me luck with the stupid hospital and the stupid eye surgery.

See ya later luv ya bye.

June 5, 2025 0 comments