Today's Lesson Learned

"No expectations leads to no disappointments. "

Linda C.

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New Fav Music Vid: "Blue Sky" by Common

So happy to have Common's full presence back in the game. This song is beautiful, insightful and very motivational.  Don't only enjoy, but enlighten yourself!

I had these dreams in my head of an endless fear
I could see it from my window
Wouldn't take that long to get me there
Keep running til' I can go
Remember the beautiful things that life could give me
Crazy how I'm the one
Could've been anywhere, but I'm sitting in the air
With the wheels up staring at the sun
Ohh, in the sky we'll find the light
Ohh, ain't too high we'll shine at night
Now we in the skies, blue skies
And we going higher, that's right

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Deals: Pay Less for More at American Apparel

To kick off the parade of Grouponicus Groupons, we've got a $25 for $50 (or $50 for $100) deal at American Apparel, valid online or in-store.  Click here to get this deal.  Offer expires November 20, 2011.

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Thrift Store Finds: DeBarge, Nina Simone & Michael Jackson on Wax

My latest trip to the thrift store was a great one. I found three great albums that any lover of "black" music would enjoy having in their music library. And I was so pleased to finally find "Thriller" in its complete package at an affordable price.

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Reminisce: Janet Jackson ft. Heavy D. "Alright" 1990 & Michael Jackson ft. Heavy D. "Jam" 1992

RIP Heavy D.

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Reminisce: Mariah Carey "My All (Remix)" & "The Roof" 1997-1998

The Butterfly years were my favorite Mariah time because she fused R&B, pop,

and hip-hop perfectly. This also brings back some sweet high-school memories.  Enjoy!

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Amy Winehouse "Lioness: Hidden Treasures" Album

British soul singer, Amy Winehouse who passed away this year, at the tender age

of 27, will have a posthumous album released at the end of this year.

The record features unreleased tracks from her debut album Frank, along

with a few covers, like "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow" which was featured on

the Diary of Bridgett Jones soundtrack, and the Mark Ronson revived "Valerie."

On Lioness, there are also duets with rapper Nas (aka "Mr. Jones") and crooner

Tony Bennett on the previously released, "Body and Soul."

 

The full track list is below:

 

1. “Our Day Will Come” (reggae version)
2. “Between the Cheats”
3. “Tears Dry” (ballad version)
4. “Wake Up Alone”
5. “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow”
6. “Valerie”
7. “Like Smoke” featuring Nas
8. “The Girl From Ipanema”
9. “Halftime”
10. “Best Friends”
11. “Body & Soul”
12. “A Song For You”

 

Image and information courtesy of SPIN.

 

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Events: BET Music Matters with Lenny Harold

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New Fav Music Vid: "We Found Love" by Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris

I'm going to be honest, the video is way more appealing than the actual song.  I'll also be the first to admit

that I always enjoy watching Rihanna's style transformations, and she definitely doesn't fail to show cute

looks in this video.  Like her, the video is young, fun and sexy.  Enjoy!

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styleRAMONA

styleRAMONA

When I'm not here, I'm there. Check it out!!

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ooh vs. eww: Jeremy Scott Hands Frame Glasses

These "face pieces" are featured on PatriciaField.com and are designed by the eccentric Jeremy Scott.  I think these are fun for Halloween, but for $259, I'm not sure how this could fit into a lot of people's wardrobe.  But hey, what do I know?  Anyway, what's your opinion:  ooh la la or eww la la?

Image from PatriciaField.com.

• ooh la la (0 votes)
• eww la la (2 votes)

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New Fav Music Vid: "Stereo Hearts" by Gym Class Heroes ft. Adam Levine

When I think of GCH, I automatically go back to the MySpace years--you know, "New Friend Request," and "Cupid's Chokehold."  But with "Stereo Hearts," I love how light-hearted the song is along with the play on words.  And the fact the Maroon 5's Adam Levine is singing the hook doesn't hurt either.  This song has been around since the end of summer, but it hasn't hit my stereo heart until now.  Enjoy!!

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From the following, which is your favorite online shopping site?

• ASOS Marketplace (0 votes)
• Big Cartel (0 votes)
• eBay (3 votes)
• Etsy (0 votes)
• Goodsie (0 votes)
• Storenvy (0 votes)

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Thrift Store Finds: Cookbooks

Now, these three books don't have any Real Housewives of New Jersey drama within their pages, so that's a plus. I honestly had no intentions on buying any cookbooks, but for about $4.50 for all three, I couldn't resist.

The first one "Rocco Gets Real" was honestly bought because I saw him on the Wendy Williams show today. What I like about the book is that the recipes are short and don't require a lot of ingredients. "Glamour's Gourmet on the Run" is geared directly towards my demographic, the busy 20 and 30-something gals who don't want to spend a lot of time making a meal, but who do want to whip up something that is absolutely yummy. This book has different charts like how to mix different greens when making a salad, how to create different cocktails and non-alcholic drinks, and simple ways to make your favorite desserts. The book is super girly, yet practical, which is what I love.

The last book "Julia and Jaques Cooking at Home" was a steal. It doesn't look like it was used, and I only paid about $2. This book retails for nearly $60 and Julia Child is a cooking genius, so I couldn't pass this up. However, I probably won't crack this book open until it gets a little closer to Thanksgiving. I can already tell from its weight that the recipes will take a lot of time and patience in order to create something good.

So stay posted to my site as I'll be posting different things that I make from each book. I'll write about the cooking process, how it tastes, and will also put up the recipes!!Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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New Videos From Beyonce and David Guetta ft. Usher

I finally got around to checking out these brand new videos.  Both have pretty simple concepts, but it was refreshing.  Beyonce's "Love On Top" is actually my favorite song off of her "4" album.  It's song that took me back to family gatherings in the 80s and  90s.  The video's concept has that same vibe, and resembles a New Edition music video.

"Without You" is a song I've been hearing on the radio a whole lot lately.  I really like David Guetta's collaborations, and this song with Usher is subtle but still stays true to his dance vibe.

Check out both videos and enjoy!

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Events: Life in B Major

GOOD POETRY + GOOD MUSIC + GOOD PEOPLE= GREAT TIME 

Meet @ The Green Room for cocktails & all the above. 

Enjoy poetry selections from Bimpe Fageyinbo's new book, 
So Maybe That's the Bee's Weakness!, set to music provided by DJ Young Pap spinning throughout the set and closing out the night !! 

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Pictures: Hoboken, NJ 10-09-11

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Spring/Summer 2012 New Jersey Fashion Week

On Sunday, I attended two shows for New Jersey's Fashion Week--Conquer Style (for men) and Alexandra Miranda (for women).  Although I wanted to attend more shows that day, my cold and time just wouldn't allow it.  This was NJFW's second season putting on these shows featuring Jersey based designers, as well as others in the area.  Held in Hoboken, I think that's it's something that can grow to become something very big as the years go on.

Check out my pictures from the shows on my facebook page and on styleRAMONA.

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Jason Wu Set for Next Target Collaboration

WWD reports that Jason Wu will be the next fashion designer to collaborate with Target.  Wu, shown above with some images from his recent Spring/Summer 2012 Ready to Wear Collection, has become one of the hottest, and youngest, designers in the industry.  By far, his S/S '12 collection was one of my favorites, and I cannot wait to see what he will be putting together for the mass retail chain.

Stay posted for official release date.

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New Fav Music Vid: "Don't Stop the Party" by The Black Eyed Peas

I've been wanting to post this music video since July, but the timing was never right.  But since I'll be attending their concert in Central Park tonight, I think now is as good a time as any!

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X Factor Taping in NJ

Tonight is the last night of auditions for the X Factor. This episode will consist of hopefuls that ranged from a foreign woman singing Lady Gaga to a young Brooklyn kid rapping about his mother. How do I know all of this you ask? Because I was at the Jersey taping!

I also have a brief video showcasing the judges speaking with the audience (it's featured on my RamonaAlcantara YouTube page). I can't wait to see how things were edited. I also can't wait to see if there are any funny tidbits left in--like a Target worker who totally failed at singing that five-hundred, twenty-one-thousand, six-hundred minutes song. (Did I even write that correctly?)

Either way, it will be a great episode, and I can't wait to see it. Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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Shopping Bag Diaries: H&M

Here's a great purchase I made a few weeks back.  The blouse ($9.95) has been featured in the stylish H&M television commercials.  It fits very well and is super comfortable and light.  I was also on the hunt for round frame tortoise shell sunglasses, but wasn't looking to spend a lot of money. Luckily, I came across these sunnies at the counter amongst other sunglasses that were on sale.  They were originally $6.95, but I got them for $3 (plus tax).  Overall, a delightful purchase, and all under $14.

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My Missoni for Target Missions

So as many of you know (if you read my blog and/or follow me on my social media outlets) I've had a love for the Missoni brand for some years.  And once the announcement came out that the Italian brand would be collaborating with Target, I was ecstatic.  I was lucky enough to attend the launch party in NYC (a few weeks before the items were officially released on September 13th) but wasn't smart enough to grab the things that I'd later be driving out of state for .

The number one item that I had to have was a throw.  I must say "thank you" to the Target in Langhorne, PA for holding 2 aside for me while I drove an hour out of state to get them.  However,it was worth it.  The throw is so soft and warm, I LOVE IT.

The other items in the picture above are things I've acquired during my "Missoni Missions": the Note Cube with 800 sheets of paper, the Card Set, the Make-Up Kit, Folders, and two Hand Towels.  As you can tell, I'm a fan of the Passione and Famiglia sets because they match my decor perfectly.

I also bought a pair of the Openwork Tights in Ebony.  I was trying to resist these tights because I'm all about spending money on things that I know I will use often and will have longevity.  But I finally gave in and bought them.  When I tried them on, and realized how sexy they looked on my legs, I decided to keep them.

Lastly, I bought two other pieces for my wardrobe.

The Open Cardigan is my most recent purchase.  I stumbled upon it while lurking around the fitting room area of a local Target store.  I tried it on, and it fit so well on me.  It's something I can wear everyday in the fall, so I didn't feel guilty buying it.  And whenever there is a designer collaboration with a chain store, I always buy a scarf.

Although a lot of people had issues with Target's site and/or couldn't find things in stores, I am very happy with all the driving I've done to get all of these things.  Of course I'd love to get more, but I'm pretty satisfied.  Like a lot of lovers of this line, it's great that Missoni stayed true to their designs.  I believe that is why this collaboration was is sought after.  Hopefully, like the Liberty of London collection done for Target, this current line will be revived online for those who missed out the first time around.  If not, there are sites on facebook that are doing trades and buys for "fair" prices.

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Missoni for Target Pop-Up in NYC

Last week as I was walking up towards 42nd St. from Herald Square, I noticed some bright and recognizable prints sprinkled on the Met Life building. At first I thought they were just some ads for the upcoming Missoni x Target collection. But as I made a left on the corner of 42nd, I remembered that the space below the building was where brands like Pop Tart, and Cottonelle had pop-up stores in the past. After I put the zig zag puzzle pieces together, I realized what would be taking over that space next.

Beginning September 8th, b.k.a. Fashion's Night Out, the Missoni for Target store will be open to the public and they can purchase pieces from the much anticipated collaboration (while supplies last). You better believe that I will be one of the first in line to grab whatever I can. 

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Nailin' It: American Apparel Lacquer

Here's the current polish that I'm wearing. The color is called Rouge and I thought it would be a nice transitional color into fall. It's a very thick and creamy color and if you're in a rush, you can easily get away with doing one coat. So far this polish has held up between opening many envelopes, typing, and other daily activities that require handy work. And to keep my nails looking super shiny, I always use the fast drying top coat by N.Y.C.Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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Deals: Be Dangerously Beautiful for Back to School

 

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Back at SELF for Fashion Week

Today I will be back at SELF to freelance for Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2012.  I can't believe that this time last year I started my internship and now I've come full circle as someone they can now rely.  I owe a lot to this magazine for the great training and work ethic that they've instilled in me.  I can't wait to be stomping the streets of NYC during one of the best times of the year in the fashion world.

Keep posted for Ramona Reports and my favorites from the shows this season!

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Record Collection: Michael Jackson "The Early Years"

This album features 10 of young Michael's most memorable songs. Tracks include "Got to be There," "Ben," "The Love You Save," and "Never Can Say Goodbye."Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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Reminisce: Michael Jackson "Another Part of Me" 1987

Here's one of my favorite MJ songs during his amazing Bad era.  Happy Birthday Michael!

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Top 10 MTV VMA 2011 Moments

1. Lady Gaga as her alter ego Joe Calderone; I admire her for not breaking character.

2. Queen guitarist Brian May accompanying Gaga during "You and I."

3. Jay-Z & Kanye West performing "Otis."  I especially loved Kanye's denim ombre button down.

4. Russell Brand.  'Nuff said.

5. Adele's look and voice.  I liked catching little bits of her singing along to other performers' songs.

6. Justin Bieber's YSL pin.

7. Chris Brown's performance.  AH-MAZE!  And I peeped that MJ stomp. :)

Get More: 2011 VMA, Music, Chris Brown

 

8. The Britney Spears tribute.  It was a bit short for my liking, and I couldn't understand why she was praising someone else during her acceptance speech.  But still, it was a well deserved tribute.  Would've been superb if she gave Joe a little peck on the lips.  LOL.

9. Beyonce rubbing her baby bump at the end of her "Love on Top" performance.

10. The Amy Winehouse tribute.  Bruno Mars did a great job with singing "Valerie."

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New Fav Music Vid: "Otis" by Jay-Z & Kanye West

"Damn [Ms. Alcantara], where the hell [ya] been?"

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R.I.P. Amy Winehouse--"Back to Black"

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H&M Fall 2011 Preview

Preview H&M's new 'Two Sides to a Story' video (click image above) featuring the upcoming Ladylike Fall collection.  The clip showcases the line's elegance with a mix of classic Jackie Onasis.

This season's fashion breathes feminine elegance. The vintage trend makes a huge comeback and is focused on femininity and contemporary influences. Luxurious materials and a color palette dominated by burgundy, cream and orange adds to the sophisticated look.

Check out more of H&M's trends at H&M.com.

 

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Karl Lagerfeld Set To Do Macy's

He's the mind behind Chanel, Fendi, his own self-titled brand, and now he will be bringing in a line for Macy's. WWD reported the news this morning with a sketch (seen below). Now, us awaiting Lagerfeld lovers will be saving our dollars for the official date when these items hit the Macy's racks. Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

 

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Color Palette: Emma Stone at the "FWB" Premiere

Twenty-two-year-old actress, Emma Stone, wearing a top and skirt by Giambattista Valli.

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Get The Look: Mila Kunis at the "Friends With Benefits" Movie Premiere in NYC

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Everything I Need to Know, I Learned From Noah's Ark

ONE:

Don't miss the boat.

TWO:

Remember that we are all in the same boat! 

THREE:

Plan ahead.  It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark.  

FOUR:

Stay fit.  When you're 60 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big. 

FIVE:

Don't listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done. 
SIX:

Build your future on high ground. 

SEVEN:

For safety's sake, travel in pairs. 

EIGHT:

Speed isn't always an advantage.  The snails were on board with the cheetahs.  

NINE:

When you're stressed, float awhile. 

TEN:

Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic by professionals. 

ELEVEN:

No matter the storm, when you are with God, there's always a rainbow waiting.

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Record Collection: Miami Sound Machine "Primitive Love" 1985

Keeping up with the 1980's sounds! Gloria Estefan and her fellow band mates brought it with this record.

Favorite Songs: "Primitive Love," "Bad Boy," and "Conga."Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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Record Collection: WHAM! "Make It Big" 1984

George Michael was my first crush and lately I've been on such a GM and WHAM! kick. So since it is Friday, I decided to go through my vinyl collection and break out the duo's "Big" album.

Favorite Songs: "Everything She Wants," "Freedom," "If You Were There," and "Careless Whisper."
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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Cubannie Links Turns 4

In honor of Cubannie Links reaching its 4th anniversary, the accessories maker is giving away a free piece with each purchase.  For anyone who owns a piece of Annie's work, then you're aware of how each item is sexy yet sturdy, so no matter what your complimentary gift is, it will be awesome.  And if you don't own one of her pieces, then check her items out-- I recommend the Coco Knockers :)

And when you check out, don't forget to insert that you saw this posting on this site!  So don't forget to write ramona (see picture above) before you make your purchase!!

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Designer Nicole Miller Joins Forces with Indego Africa

Celebrated runway designer Nicole Miller partners with the nonprofit Indego Africa to launch a colorful and exclusive line of fair-trade shorts and sarongs to complement their already existing line of textile bangles and woven bracelets. Indego Africa is an innovative social enterprise that partners with more than 250 women artisans in Rwanda, Africa on a fair trade basis to help them build relationships with and fill orders for high-end retailers.

The bright sarongs and colorful printed shorts are created with five different, vivid African fabrics that were hand selected from the markets in Rwanda. The original partnership began in September 2010 when Miller collaborated with Indego Africa on the bracelet design. In May 2011, The Fair Trade Federation awarded Indego Africa the 2011 award for “Excellence in Product Design” for the design of the textile bangles and woven bracelets. Each Textile Bangle is wrapped with vibrant African fabrics, and each Woven Bracelet is hand-stitched with needles and sisal fibers using traditional Rwandan techniques. The dyes and elements used to create the bracelets are natural and non-toxic for the women.

This innovative joint venture has thus expanded into a line of colorful sarongs and shorts, just in time for the summer season. “I am so proud to have had the opportunity to partner with such an inspiring organization that empowers African women and to help spread the message of Indego Africa. I’ve always loved the vibrancy and hand-crafted feel of African prints and textiles. Working with different fabrics and prints is a big part of what I do. With my collections, we use digital technology and graphics to create prints so using African textiles was a nice departure from that. I think people like wearing things that feel organic and not like they’re produced in a factory somewhere” says Nicole Miller.

You can check out these, and other items from the Nicole Miller Indego Africa collection on NicoleMiller.com.

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Maplewoodstock Memories

On Saturday I participated in my first fair, Maplewoodstock, showcasing my own handmade items.  I sold fabric bundles, clothing, accessories, handmade hair accessories, jewelry, chevron bracelets and embroidery hoop art.  I must say that for my first event it was an excitingly overwhelming learning experience. I would love to do it again at a different venue and on a larger scale.

Although the set up process is grueling, I enjoyed seeing all of my items laid out beautifully and seeing things come together on a whim.  The wind was a bit mean to my displays, so earrings ended up on the brim of a Mason jar, my repurposed frame was tied to a bar, and embroidery hoops were hanging from chains and ropes.

If you weren't able to make it out to Maplewoodstock, or if you wanted to grab something, but didn't get the chance,no worries.  Items are gradually being posted on my Storenvy and etsy store pages.  Please feel free to check them out so you can get a hold of custom made pieces.  And if you're on facebook, you can Like my page so you can have easy access to my items without having to leave the social media site.

 

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Join Me at Maplewoodstock

Saturday, July 9th from 12pm-9pm, I will be at Maplewoodstock.  Myself, along with my friend Jewels from bubblegumponys, will be selling hand-made items (jewelry, crayons, notebooks), dyed totes, embroidery hoop art, hair accessories, vintage/gently worn apparel, and more.  Held at Memorial Park (by the Maplewood train station) you can check out other vendors, listen to live music and dive into some great food.  Hope to see you at the the Ramona's + Jewels' booth!!!

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Thrifty: "Breakfast at Tiffany's" LP

For those who know me well, they are aware of my two favorite celebs-- Michael Jackson and Audrey Hepburn. "Breakfast at Tiffany's" is one of my top three favorite movies and was brought into my life during a very trying time. I watched it everyday for a week because it gave me comfort and escapism--something that's hard to come across in movies today.

About a month ago I borrowed a first edition copy of the book from my local library and fell in love with Truman Capote's original words. After reading it I had put my feelings into the world and stated that I needed to find the album. I already own the CD, but nothing beats an original. Lucky for me, my wish was granted yesterday during a swift vinyl search at the thrift store. The record was about fourth one in from the front and when I saw Audrey's face and her chin rested upon her palm, I squealed with excitement.

It seems that around the fourth of July, I tend to find an album that I was wishing to find (like last year when I found Michael Jackson's "Off the Wall" for .50 cents in great condition).

So, as I bring this post to an end, remember that if you put your wishes out there, and with a pure heart, your wish may just come true. And sometimes, it may only cost .50 cents.

(The image in this post shows the album along with a poster I have framed above my bed.)
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

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