TBT: The Star Spangled Banner by Sarah Afshar

As today we celebrate Independence Day in America, I wanted to share some throwback (today is Thursday, after all) of me singing "The Star Spangled Banner" on Smule last year in 2018. I know I have probably shared this recording various times, but I never get tired of it, as I am not only proud of this recording, but proud to be an American who loves her life, her liberty and is always in pursuit of happiness. And did I mention I love my country? I love the United States of America and honored to be living here. #MAGA

 

To listen to my rendition of the Star Spangled Banner simply watch (or listen) to the video above. If it does not play, simply click here right now. I highly suggest listening with headphones, as I recorded this directly from the app using my voice and my iPhone. Happy 4th of July everyone!

TBT: Me at my cousin's wedding

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I went tanning this Summer hence why I was super dark. I also had my hair stripped from black to this color. And although I looked a little "orange" that was primarily from using artificial bronzer. I did both my makeup and my hair and last minute decided to wear my hair like this. I had a great time in spite of the wedding not being planned well. 

I always love taking pictures though, as you can capture memories in virtually every photo. When I look at these photos, I remember that day like it was yesterday. And although the details seem to be somewhat of a vague blur, I haven't forgotten anything. 

These were taken in North Carolina. The town or area was called Pittsboro, which was very close to where my cousin was living at the time. I was invited months prior and honestly, was uncertain about attending as I was a workaholic and didn't know if I could have any time. After much contemplation, I decided to attend. I stayed in a hotel nearby for a few days. 

The day was beautiful, as it was warm but not too hot. There was sort of a breeze going on. It wasn't the Summer, but more so early Fall. I attended the wedding in late September years ago. One thing about North Carolina that I appreciate is the weather. 

I haven't seen my cousin many years which was the main reason I wanted to go. I only spoke to her few times on Facebook, so I just knew going to the wedding would be a great idea. As she is my cousin from mother's side of the family, The wedding was also a good chance to see family and old friends. 

My cousin Dawn was there. Only a few years later, her mother Carol Reiff was murdered. And still until this day, there has not been one single lead let alone suspect of her death. Those who have followed my blog know about her, as I have talked about her several times. Tragedy is an understatement. 

I know this is kind of off topic, but with the Morgan Ingram case, I have garnered more than an interest in true crime, but a strong passion for justice. Although I have always loved true crime and mystery (being a little girl and watching Unsolved Mysteries was what really made me realize how much I enjoyed it) it wasn't until I interviewed Toni Ingram where I discovered the true darkness of our world. 

I remember sitting in the backseat of a family member's car and snapping this picture of myself. At the time I had an old iPhone. 

This picture (the one to your right) was made popular by Michael Odegard, an internet stalker who made a series of hate blogs about me shortly after I published these online. I think the blog was called "Sarah Afshar Bimbo" or something. Why he chose this photo, I have no idea. Shortly after, I think this individual used the picture again when he made another hate site about my ex boyfriend Joe. 

Shortly after I took these photos, I uploaded them to Facebook. Afterwards, I rekindled with my old flame Joseph Valo. I've known Joe for about 20 years. And although he and decided to part ways late last year, I remember the time I spent with him. We are still friends. 

When I look at the additional photos I took, I only remember the day. I remember some of the details too; however, a lot of things are a blur now. I don't know if it is because I have been busy for years upon years since or simply because I don't really want to go back to that day, knowing what I know about my cousin's ex husband. Either way, a picture tells a story. And whether that story is small or large, that is one story you will always remember for the rest of your life.

Throwback Thursday: Valentine's Day 2014

 

My amazingly handsome boo, Joseph Valo went all out last year for Valentine's Day. Needless to say, it was the best yet most memorable Valentine's Day ever. Valentine's Day 2015 is this Saturday, so I am very excited to see what my soulmate, lover, and best friend has planned.



TBT: Christmas 2013

Today is not only Christmas day, my favorite holiday, but also Throwback Thursday. Although Christmas is great this year because I get to spend it amongst loved ones and snow, I had a great Christmas last year. In fact, I don't think I ever had a horrible Christmas ever because even through the rough times in life (death of my grandmother, for instance) I still managed to love, cherish, value, and appreciate this amazing day.

 

 

 

For Throwback Thursday, I want to share my Christmas Tree I had last year and prior from my home in Bozeman, MT. I hope everyone is having a wonderful day and just remember, if your day is not as bright as it should be, think of all of the wonderful things that have happened, that are currently happening, and the best that is yet to come.

Merry Christmas everyone!

National Cupcake Week: Gold Cupcakes

National Cupcake Week continues. Today I am sharing my gold cupcakes that I made back in 2012 for a beauty event. I was inspired to make Gold cupcakes for a company that used a lot of gold in their branding. These were so delicious, one of the girls said to me “I think I ate 11 of them.”

 

Some people thought they were fake and some people even said they were the best cupcakes they ever ate, which made my day better. Cupcakes are not only fun to make, they are a great way to get creative too.