Summer brings with it trips to the beach, barbecues, convertibles and outdoor adventures. Before we start to talk summer fashion trends, blitz your cold sore blues — and don’t forget the sunscreen!

Now let’s help you find the perfect swimsuit.

Swimming attire is a difficult fit. Why? The honest answer is bodies come in all shapes and sizes, swimsuits mean more skin and the possibility of revealing your imperfections. This is difficult for almost anyone. The main goal is to find something that covers the right spots and flaunts the rest.

Drama is the conventional string that takes us from one point of stress to another. I love the Mary J. Blige song “No More Drama”. Girl tells it like it is. We don’t need anymore drama in our lives. This song is truly an inspiration. I am no doctor, therapist or genius, but I know that drama and stress is no good for the body and mind. I am a human being, I can be moody. I can be unkind and Lord knows I have been known to be a Duh-Rama Queen. I know most of you can relate to this. So, the question is… where does drama take us?

The best accessory to reflect your style, personality or mood is a pair of shades. The right pair of shades can dress up, ooze casualty or bring on the glam factor. It is an affordable accessory that any girl can splurge on. And be honest, you probably have a collection of sunglasses because like your favorite purse, you need different styles to reflect different aspects of YOU. Especially when you’re suffering through a hellacious cold sore outbreak! Nothing detracts from a horrendous cold sore like the latest trendsetter in outdoor eyewear! But like any other fashion accessory, there are a few rules you want to follow to achieve the look you’re going for.

My niece has suffered through cold sore outbreaks for most of her life. I’m amazed at how she maintains a great attitude and definitely doesn’t let an outbreak stop her in any way. I’ve used many of the lessons she’s learned and conversations we’ve had to create my 10 Commandments of Cold Sore Outbreaks to live (through your cold sores) by. This is Part II of my two part series. Click here if you missed Part I.

What’s that saying? When life throws you sour lemons, make lemonade? I say fill up your entire glass and enjoy because when you have a cold sore, you don’t have to share a drop of it with anyone! Now how’s that for a silver lining to what is probably not your most favorite occasion, cold sore outbreak time?

Mom has taught you many great lessons in life but even she can’t argue that when it comes to the two weeks you suffer through a cold sore outbreak, it is time to throw some of that etiquette right out the window. You DON’T have to share! Say it with me, I know you’ve been dying to. Mine! Mine! ALL Mine! Oh, that felt good! Almost too good.