tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38929340279324419092024-03-13T08:47:26.156-07:00Sophisticated Bliss-living life intentionally-Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-79497421371990828952017-07-16T18:15:00.000-07:002017-07-17T12:59:34.482-07:00Fights give me a reason to have faith<div class="m_-4192141875140571018p1">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="m_-4192141875140571018s1">I
laid on the medical table in a room stuck in early 90's decor, you know
the abstract shapes in mint green, baby pink, and sky blue. I turned
my head to the left to see peeling wall paper starring back at me. She
said it would sting and then burn a little. I didn't flinch or squirm,
I've become accustomed to pain tolerance. I grit my teeth and take it
because crying and stalling won't do any good. Multiple injections into
my skin to numb the area to be removed. The first layer of dermis gone and cauterized, ointment applied followed by band-aids. I tell
them I really want to watch; seeing something removed from the body
isn't the same as getting stitches they explain.<span class="m_-4192141875140571018Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="m_-4192141875140571018s1">It's
over, in and out in less than 45 minutes. Now the waiting game begins. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="m_-4192141875140571018s1">March of this year my boss noticed a rather large freckle above my right
ear in my hair line. Who knows how long it'd been there but it didn't
bother me. It mirrored a freckle on my right shoulder, light brown
center with a dark border. As soon as it was discovered I knew in my
spirit it was nothing. Gods peace washed over me and I knew this
discolored flesh wouldn't be my demise.<span class="m_-4192141875140571018Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="m_-4192141875140571018s1">After
hearing story after story of people my age diagnosed with cancer of
various kinds, I made the appointment to get it checked out. Still, I
knew what God placed in my spirit and I trusted him. It wasn't
until after the procedure to have three freckles/moles removed that my
old friend came knocking.<span class="m_-4192141875140571018Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="m_-4192141875140571018s1">Anxiety.<span class="m_-4192141875140571018Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="m_-4192141875140571018s1">It
creeps up slowly, almost nonexistent until it lassos your chest like a
vice grip. Did I mention I'm also a worrier? Every "what if" imaginable
played through my mind and the anxiety heightens it times ten. My life is
not my own when he comes to town. My only focus is survival, keeping
myself from crumbling from condemnation and lies Satan spews in my ear.
Because I've experienced this before I have an action plan, proof it can
be overcome.<span class="m_-4192141875140571018Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="m_-4192141875140571018s1">So
I preach to myself; constantly, violently. God does not give us a
spirit of fear but of love. Satan is a liar. You are redeemed and his
grace is sufficient for you. He is faithful and a promise keeper. You
can trust him, he loves you and knows you. He calls you by name.<span class="m_-4192141875140571018Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="m_-4192141875140571018s1">Joshua
1:5 has been a verse I've clung to time after time. We're not promised a
life free from stress and problems but he does promises to walk through
the flames with us, to never leave or forsake us.<span class="m_-4192141875140571018Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="m_-4192141875140571018s1">I
cannot stress enough how important it is to immerse yourself in the
Word. When attacks come, and they will come, you'll have the right tools
in your tool box to fight back. It's all about muscle memory. I can
still hear a shooting coach I had in high school, "if you want to make
shots in a game, you have to practice those shots a thousand times" and
I'm almost 30. Suffice to say, it's a thing and it's real.<span class="m_-4192141875140571018Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="m_-4192141875140571018s1">Almost
two weeks had passed, finally a letter came from the doctor. A letter
automatically meant everything was a-ok. I opened it, all three spots
benign. Tears instantly flooded my eyes, which honestly kind of took me
by surprise. I fell on my face and cried and worshiped and thanked Him.
God never ceases to amaze me, I feel like I say that all the time but
it's the truth. I text my brother in Christ the good news and his
response was "...Satan tried to use your mom to bring you down...didn't
work. He tried to use an unhealthy relationship with your ex...didn't
work. Tried to use sexual temptation with that situationship...didn't
work. I was like is he trying to use health now!!! Naw, won't work. God
got too many people for you to impact for that to work."<span class="m_-4192141875140571018Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-4192141875140571018s1"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Satan
knows what buttons to push, mine is anxiety. God is greater. Greater
than anxiety, greater than any and all emotions and circumstances. I know what he's called me to and the promises he's made. No matter what comes at or against me, I've won. I've won because Jesus died to give me life. </span></span></div>
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<span class="m_-4192141875140571018s1"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">(If you're struggling with anxiety or depression, please reach out to someone who loves you. I thank God daily for the people around me who encourage and pray for me. If you need prayer, e-mail me.)</span></span><br />
<span class="m_-4192141875140571018s1"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span class="m_-4192141875140571018s1"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">"Fights me give a reason to have faith." -Pastor Sarah Jakes Roberts </span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-69275423795190064272017-06-12T09:57:00.001-07:002017-06-12T10:01:11.396-07:00Radical Obedience <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"> “Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing
enlightened about shrinking so that other people will not feel insecure
around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. It is not just in
some of us; it is in everyone, and as we let our light shine, we
unconsciously give others permission to do the same. As we are liberated
from our fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” </span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><strong class="markup--strong markup--blockquote-strong"><em class="markup--em markup--blockquote-em">- </em></strong><em class="markup--em markup--blockquote-em">Marianne Williamson</em></span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><em class="markup--em markup--blockquote-em">. . . </em></span></i></span><br />
<em><span style="font-family: "georgia"; font-size: large;"><br /></span></em>
<span style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif; font-size: large;">2016 couldn't come to a close fast enough. 2017 felt different. I've never had a word for the year but this year two words kept nagging at me: radical obedience. Sounds good, right? But what does that look like? So far it's looked like me running from a calling God placed in my heart. I've been writing, poetry and prose, which is new to me and I love it. Writing or journaling really is cathartic but being vulnerable with strangers is scary. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif; font-size: large;">One day last week I was beaming with joy overflowing from my heart. I wrote it down because when you've faced hell and survived you document small moments of joy. Literally the next morning, anxiety crept it's ugly head back into my chest. Honestly I can't remember the last time I struggled with anxiety but the feeling is all too familiar just the same. Short honest declarations get me through however. You're loved. You're safe. He who promised is faithful. He's always made a way, this time will be no different. No coincidence this is happening now because it forces me to get back to my center; Jesus. To draw all my strength and peace from him and him alone.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif; font-size: large;"> God's been harassing me, "do the thing Rachel, what's stopping you". If I'm truly honest with myself, it's fear. Fear is something I refuse to let hinder my life. When we're fearful, we're not fully trusting God. I'll get inspired but let the moment pass me by. I disqualify myself because of who I am or better yet, who I'm not. It's bigger than us however. My family and friends are tied to the decisions I make or stubbornly refuse to make. People I may never meet in person need to see Jesus shine through me, and through you too. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">"Somebody once told me the definition of hell:</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><em class="markup--em markup--p-em">“On your last day on earth, the person you became will meet the person you could have become.”</em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><em class="markup--em markup--p-em"> — Anonymous</em></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', serif; font-size: large;">God has put too much inside me to let the above be my reality. My mentor frequently reminds me women need other women who are truth tellers. Women who keep Jesus as number one, over everything else. Single women in their 20's and 30's navigating dating with purpose and all the challenges that brings. So here I am, stripped and vulnerable, surrendering to Jesus; use me as you see fit.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="markup--em markup--p-em"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span class="markup--em markup--p-em"><span style="font-size: large;">Fear may visit but it will not unpack and live here any longer. </span></span></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-81717815099361712102015-09-12T09:31:00.000-07:002015-09-12T09:36:02.319-07:00blog-tember challenge // day 12<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b> </b><b>Saturday, Sept. 12: </b>What are you up to currently?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Reading // </b>do blogs count? I'm terrible about finishing books </span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Playing // </b>'relax & unwind' playlist on Spotify </span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Watching //</b> dvr'ed Beetlejuice last night, pretty stoked to watch it (for the umpteenth time), also considering starting Game of Thrones over again </span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Cooking // </b>last week I made lemon meringue cheesecake, from scratch! I'm in a total baking mood at the moment </span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Eating // </b>nothing, I must get better at eating more than once a day on the weekends</span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Drinking // </b>Gevalia French roast coffee + vanilla caramel creamer</span> <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b></b></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Going // </b>to get my hair cut, a good 3 or 4 inches gotta come off</span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Loving // </b>that I'm sitting on my porch, wearing a sweatshirt, drinking coffee. Doesn't get much better than this</span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Hating // </b>absolutely nothing, feeling incandescently happy </span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Discovering // </b>God's call + purpose for my life & how it looks nothing like I planned & how awesome & scary that is</span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Thinking // </b>always & too much....my mind never stops</span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Feeling // </b>thankful... for breath in my body, family + friends that support me & love me for ME, a boss who is a mentor + friend, & for Jesus </span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Hoping (for) // </b>a man to go on adventures with #hopelessromantic</span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b> </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Celebrating // </b></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">LIFE, the older I get I realize how finite life is....learning to enjoy every piece & portion I'm given</span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Smelling // </b>Autumn in the air, giving me all the feels</span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Ordering // </b>surprisingly nothing presently, but I do love being my own Santa Clause </span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b></b><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Considering // </b>living a life that's a complete 180 of what I've always imagined & being at peace with that</span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Starting // </b>to blog regularly again</span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Finishing // </b>this post :-) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-8979916200048229802015-09-09T18:47:00.002-07:002015-09-09T18:47:17.256-07:00blog-tember challenge // day 6<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Sept. 6: </b>Share your style. What fashion trends do you love, frequent, or avoid?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">So, I'm a few days behind...no biggie. In the past year my style has simplified. Most of the new pieces I buy are better quality and for the most part, have been basic staples every woman needs in her closet. I love expressing myself through fashion & definitely have the confidence now to really wear what I want, no matter what I think someone else will think of me. I wouldn't say I have one set style, however I love the simple sexiness of a Parisian chic woman. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span id="goog_1571915542"><a href="http://www.hellofashionblog.com/?s=camo" target="_blank">3</a>//<a href="http://www.suburbanfauxpas.com/2015/09/baseball-tee-dress.html" target="_blank">4</a>//<a href="http://thecourtneykerr.com/the-courtney-bib-strikes-again/" target="_blank">8</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span id="goog_1571915542">1 // All black is easy + provides instant coolness</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span id="goog_1571915542">2 // I love the mix of different textures, it keeps an all black look interesting</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span id="goog_1571915542">3 // Pair a masculine piece with feminine items, camo is perfect for a little something unexpected</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span id="goog_1571915542">4 // Buffalo plaid tied around the waist to my go-to, always </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span id="goog_1571915542">5 // I'm so in to ripped jeans lately, but why are they typically more expensive</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span id="goog_1571915542">6 // Sneakers, the way to my heart</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span id="goog_1571915542">7 // Black & white stripes obsessed right now, channeling my inner Parisian</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span id="goog_1571915542">8 // The Courtney bib by Baublebar, recently picked one up for only $20 #score</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span id="goog_1571915542">9 // Black + white + tan/cognac, so simple but works every time</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span id="goog_1571915542">Hair // Can't get enough of sexy bed-head messy curly hair, plus it's pretty easy for me to pull off with my lion's mane</span></span></div>
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<span id="goog_1571915542"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Makeup // All about glowing skin with defined brows + a bold lip #yasssss</span></span></div>
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<span id="goog_1571915542"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">*all other photos are not mine & found on Tumblr</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.braveloveblog.com/2015/08/the-2015-blog-tember-challenge.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Brave Love Blog" border="0" src="http://i62.tinypic.com/2u9pxe0.jpg" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-11120546102500637372015-09-03T05:20:00.000-07:002015-09-03T05:20:12.481-07:00Blog-tember Challenge // Day 3 <br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.braveloveblog.com/2015/08/the-2015-blog-tember-challenge.html" target="_blank">Blog-tember Challeng</a>e Day 3: using pictures/collage, tell us what your blog is about</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I'd say my blog is a little about everything but I've narrowed down what I am truly passionate about. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Makeup/Beauty // </b>makeup just makes me happy, it's relaxing, as odd as that sounds, while I'm going through my routine. I love trying new products & learning different tips + tricks. </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FSkPTmAmA_0/VeepixEq43I/AAAAAAAAAeg/RV75K-OoSss/s1600/makeup.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FSkPTmAmA_0/VeepixEq43I/AAAAAAAAAeg/RV75K-OoSss/s1600/makeup.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Encouragement //</b> Being a woman is hard, beautiful but hard. I want women to know that yes, you can be an independent bawse & just because you're assertive, no that doesn't mean you're a bitch. I want women to feel confident & beautiful & sexy in their own skin without validation from men or the outside world. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qKje5ThMwro/VeevYDevVkI/AAAAAAAAAe8/e0qgudSWxhs/s1600/encourage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qKje5ThMwro/VeevYDevVkI/AAAAAAAAAe8/e0qgudSWxhs/s1600/encourage.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Jesus //</b> Without him, I am nothing. I've been through tough situations so I can share my testimony with others in the hope that they too can make it through the fire because, Jesus. </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sup4P5j6UJ8/VeeyeUJFfDI/AAAAAAAAAfM/inwDzODcg7I/s1600/jesus.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sup4P5j6UJ8/VeeyeUJFfDI/AAAAAAAAAfM/inwDzODcg7I/s1600/jesus.png" /></a></div>
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*all photos are from Tumblr<br />
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<a href="http://www.braveloveblog.com/2015/08/the-2015-blog-tember-challenge.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Brave Love Blog" border="0" src="http://i62.tinypic.com/2u9pxe0.jpg" /> </a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-77344294787036887692015-09-01T19:27:00.001-07:002015-09-01T19:27:54.402-07:00blog-tember // day 1<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I haven't blogged in forever, I was feeling all inspired with a plethora of topics to write about. Until there was just too much to write about & I kinda threw my hands in the air. I started blogging this time last year with this exact <a href="http://www.braveloveblog.com/2015/08/the-2015-blog-tember-challenge.html" target="_blank">Blog-Tember</a> challenge. I didn't really know what direction I wanted to take my blog until I realized there's more to life than giveaways & being a "popular" internet phenom. I want community & fellowship & to encourage. What better way to jump back in to the swing of things than with this challenge! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I'm Rachel, 27, single and cherishing my current season. I've been saved by a gracious God who treats me way better than I deserve. I'm learning to trust Him in ALL areas of my life, let me tell you....when you give it all to Him, he shows out.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Random tidbits:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-I am a makeup lover, contouring + brows + mascara are probably my favorites</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-I own more nail polish than a salon</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Autumn is my favorite season, give me all the sweatshirts</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-However, not a fan of pumpkin spice latte (gasp, I know) too sweet for me</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-I love to brunch & go antique hunting</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Sometimes I cuss like a sailor but I'm working on it </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Leopard is my favorite color </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">-Weight training is my exercise of choice #gainsssss</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I'm excited to see new faces & meet some awesome ladies. Please don't hesitate to say hello! </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-21058595954061413252015-06-13T08:54:00.001-07:002015-06-13T08:54:09.201-07:00<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">have you ever had the feeling that something was coming? no clue exactly when, or in what shape, or location....but in your soul, deep down in your bones, you could feel it? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">The older I get, the more I learn to trust my intuition. And the more spiritually<span id="goog_587420876"></span><span id="goog_587420877"></span> mature I become, I realize the Holy Spirit is crazy good. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Hope is a funny character. It can hold us hostage in unruly situations & give us the slightest glimmer that things, may indeed, turn around. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia;">Hope also wakes us up in the morning, sun shinning on our face, thankful morning graced us with her presence again. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">A few weeks back I was meandering around Hobby Lobby on a Saturday afternoon. A wash of calm, peaceful, hope came over me. In that moment, I smiled because I knew <i>this</i> wouldn't last forever. A giddy happiness children exude when they fly a kite or blow bubbles for the first time. Present, in the moment, joyfulness. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I've felt <i>it</i>, the thing my heart so longs for, was on it's way for the past 6 months...or so. Not that it was close but it was coming around the corner, so keep forging through the mud girl. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">But now, now it feels closer than ever. Am I crazy? I swear I feel <i>all the feels</i>, all the time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">And then these bible verse about perseverance show up out of nowhere, and Jesus. He speaks to me through words; the bible, other people's, even my own.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I'm reminded of a verse I've clung to like a life raft; "suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." Romans 5:3-5 </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">And I'm filled with hope and the promise that my God is good and true and in control. </span> </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-51140073284263506002015-03-23T08:01:00.000-07:002015-03-23T11:24:05.360-07:00My spiritual journey // part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B2wPtCdoedM/VRAqGAMDDgI/AAAAAAAAAaA/nSZU9eR5y3E/s1600/Montego%2BBay.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B2wPtCdoedM/VRAqGAMDDgI/AAAAAAAAAaA/nSZU9eR5y3E/s1600/Montego%2BBay.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="passage-display-bcv"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">Montego Bay, Jamaica</span></span></div>
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<span class="passage-display-bcv"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">So many words, thoughts, emotions swirl around my head; it's hard to know where to begin. I've always been an all-or-nothing person & I started this blog to authentically be myself. I love makeup & fashion & interior design but the purpose of Sophisticated Bliss is to put into the universe what I've always wanted to read. In an attempt to offer reassurance & comfort & encouragement to other women. I've had this nagging feeling lately to finally write what I know I need to write. And then I think "well, if God put this on my heart to share...maybe then he'll reward me with what my heart truly desires" & yet I<i> </i>dug my heels in the dirt & refused to be moved.<i> </i>Because of women like<span style="color: purple;"> </span><a href="http://www.megfee.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: purple;">Meg Fee</span></a>, <a href="http://www.superlativelyrude.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: purple;">Laura Jane Williams</span></a>, & <a href="http://hannahbrencher.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: purple;">Hannah Brencher</span></a> I've mustered up the courage to be brave & vulnerable. And see what happens. </span></span><br />
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<span class="passage-display-bcv"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I've been single so long I feel as if it defines me & that's infuriating. Change terrifies me, I have to fully wrap my head around an idea before I'm remotely okay with the plan. It's no surprise my journey the past 2.5 years has been slow & steady. </span></span><br />
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<span class="passage-display-bcv"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">My spiritual journey has been just as tough as it has been rewarding. June 2015 will mark 2 years since I threw my hands in the air & decided to try dating God's way. Two years working on myself, graduating college, figuring out what direction my career was headed. Weekends spent on my face before Jesus pouring out my shame, anger, frustration. Two years sorting out my baggage from my own failed relationships as well as my parents divorce. Time spent alone, not to be confused with lonely. Very rarely have I or do I feel lonely. I've been wrecked. And wrecked. And then wrecked some more. I used to get so <i>ugh</i> when reading about someone submitting to God & then meeting their husband a month later. <i>Like whet? </i>I'm here to be living proof....it can & most likely will take a little longer. <em>And that's okay</em>. </span></span><br />
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<span class="passage-display-bcv"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">You know what's crazy, God completely changed certain desires of my heart. I'm very much a realist & when the Holy Spirit starts talking to you....you start to wonder if you're going nuts. It's hard to even put into words how amazing it is when God speaks directly to you. </span></span><br />
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<span class="passage-display-bcv"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><i> Let me also note: it's completely natural & okay to keep God's promises to yourself. Others, especially those closest to you, can be unintentionally critical & pessimistic. No ones opinion about the life you're living matter except the opinion of Jesus. He loves you & is crazy happy about your desire to live closer to him. </i></span></span><br />
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<span class="passage-display-bcv"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I suppose I should stop here...at least it's a start, double high fives for baby steps. I feel better & lighter already. I'm so stubborn & all I can do is laugh at myself. </span></span><br />
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<span class="passage-display-bcv"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I ran across this verse while googling "wanting but not needing a man". Something those ladies I mentioned earlier write beautifully about. Isn't God always right on time? </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="passage-display-bcv">James 1:1-8</span><span class="passage-display-version"> New International Version (NIV)</span></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="text Jas-1-1" id="en-NIV-30268"><span class="chapternum">1 </span>James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="text Jas-1-1">To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="text Jas-1-1">Greetings.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="text Jas-1-2" id="en-NIV-30269">Trials and Temptations</span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="text Jas-1-2"><sup class="versenum">2 </sup>Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,<sup> </sup>whenever you face trials of many kinds,</span> <span class="text Jas-1-3" id="en-NIV-30270"><sup class="versenum">3 </sup>because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.</span> <span class="text Jas-1-4" id="en-NIV-30271"><sup class="versenum">4 </sup>Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.</span> <span class="text Jas-1-5" id="en-NIV-30272"><sup class="versenum">5 </sup>If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.</span> <span class="text Jas-1-6" id="en-NIV-30273"><sup class="versenum">6 </sup>But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.</span> <span class="text Jas-1-7" id="en-NIV-30274"><sup class="versenum">7 </sup>That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.</span> <span class="text Jas-1-8" id="en-NIV-30275"><sup class="versenum">8 </sup>Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="text Jas-1-8" id="en-NIV-30275">(from Biblegateway.com)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="text Jas-1-8"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*photo original to Sophisticated Bliss</span></span></span><br />
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</span></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-58456245639358369672015-03-19T07:16:00.002-07:002015-03-19T07:17:43.756-07:00celebrating The best man I know :: happy birthday daddy <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> The first person I bonded with post emergency c-section, the one who's green eyes match my own. You taught me through frustration how to ride a bike & shoot a layup properly. By example you demonstrated what hard work & ambition looked like. You made sure to reassure me I could do anything a boy could do...heck I could even do it better. You made me feel beautiful; resulting in me never needing validation from another man. You pushed me & made sure I always gave 110% at practice, any job, even yard work. Because of you I'm a relentless barracuda...no just isn't in my vocabulary. You led me to Jesus & I watched how a man leads a household. You always keep it one hundred percent real & honest about your mistakes & stubbornness. You've believed in me when I didn't even believe in myself. Without your support & encouragement I wouldn't be the woman I am. You are my hero & I thank God every day for blessing me with being your daughter. I love your stories, even if I've heard them a few times before. I love your one-liners & how you laugh at your own jokes. I appreciate all the many sacrifices you've made for our family. You are resilient, brave, loving, passionate, & have so much heart. Even though you don't look a day over 37...Happy 50th Birthday Daddy. I'm so proud of who you are & what you've accomplished...but more importantly, I'm proud to call you my dad. We celebrate you because we love you with all our hearts & you deserve nothing but absolute happiness. </span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-31136762786531531812015-03-18T08:19:00.000-07:002015-03-18T08:19:26.428-07:00Loving Lately Vo.1<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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<small><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I've been really enjoying these products lately. I'm such a creature of habit & get a little gun shy about trying new products, especially skin care. I didn't even realize I was using two Avalon Organics products until I went to compile this little list. Anything organic has to be good, right? :-) </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: small;"><strong><u><a href="http://www.sallybeauty.com/dark-sunless-mousse/SBS-775028,default,pd.html#prefn1=brand&prefv1=TNWISE&brandLandingPage=true&start=1" target="_blank">Tanwise</a></u></strong> // I've tried many a self-tanner. Lotion, aerosol spray, mousse...with bronzer, without bronzer. You name it, I've tried it. I used to tan at salons but at some point you realize "so I could, for real, possibly, get skin cancer from this. yeah no thanks". I bought Tanwise after reading the rave reviews from Maskcara. It's inexpensive, found at Sally Beauty, & gives an awesome bronze-streak fee color payoff. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: small;"><strong><u><a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/estee-lauder-advanced-night-repair-synchronized-recovery-complex-ii/3540192?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=2375500&fashionColor=&resultback=578" target="_blank">Estee Lauder 'Advanced Night Repair'</a></u></strong> // I received this as a free gift with purchase a few weeks ago. I have to say, this may replace my Ole Henriksen night serum...I'm loving what it's done to my skin. Bonus, it has zero scent. I can't figure out why brands put scent in anything that's to be applied to the face. Yuck.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: small;"><strong><u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Avalon-Organics-Vitamin-Balancing-Facial/dp/B001211B0Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426690311&sr=8-1&keywords=avalon+organics+vitamin+c+toner" target="_blank">Avalon Organics 'Vitamin C Toner'</a></u></strong> // I picked this up on a whim at Target one day. Usually I research things to death before pulling the trigger but I'm glad I gave this guy a try. Smells amazing, doesn't irritate my skin, & feels refreshing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: small;"><strong><u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Shampoo-Treatment-Avalon-Organics-Liquid/dp/B00093OPYK/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1426690341&sr=8-2&keywords=avalon+organics+scalp+treatment+shampoo" target="_blank">Avalon Organics 'Scalp Treatment Shampoo'</a></u></strong> // I couldn't find a great picture online of the shampoo, so here's the conditioner lol. I also picked this up randomly at Whole Foods because it was on sale. Winter really dried out my scalp & this has helped tremendously. Plus it smells amazing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: small;"><strong><u><a href="http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/shaded/168/310/Products/Lips/Lipstick/Lipstick/index.tmpl?SKU_ID=SKU9529" target="_blank">MAC 'Speak Louder' Lipstick</a></u></strong> // This baby came home with me after I turned in my back-to-MAC empties. I was looking for a pinky red that wasn't matte. I wore matte lips pretty much all winter so it was time for a little shine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: small;"><strong><u><a href="http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/shaded/166/1765/Products/Lips/Lipglass/Dazzleglass/index.tmpl?SKU_ID=SKU5876" target="_blank">MAC 'Get Rich Quick' Dazzleglass</a></u></strong> // This has been a long time favorite & I always get compliments when I wear it. It looks dark in the tube but I assure you it isn't. Pop over any lipstick for an amazing sparkle or wear alone to give lips a little somethin-somethin. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: small;"><strong><u><a href="http://www.sephora.com/eye-shadow-P8431?skuId=1330281" target="_blank">Stila 'Kitten'</a></u></strong> // Late to the party on this beauty! This came in the 'in the lights' palette I received for Christmas & I've worn it pretty much every day since. No joke, every.single.day (that I've worn makeup). It's just that good. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia; font-size: small;">I love reading what someones favorites are & I'm always happy to share mine! Tell me...what are you loving lately?</span></small><br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-81958144221316181942015-03-15T10:49:00.001-07:002015-03-16T17:57:38.171-07:00sunday thoughts vo.1<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">It's noon on a Sunday and I'm sitting in front of my porch as the sun warms my leg. Wearing my favorite sweatshirt I picked up from a thrift store, and I feel <i>good</i>. Sipping an iced coffee, listening to Brandi Carlile's new album with my hair in the same messy bun it's been in since Friday morning. And I feel<i> strong</i>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> Yesterday I worked out my chest and triceps and then spent the day with my dad and his girlfriend. Gratitude filled my heart, I have the freedom to hang out and belly laugh with people who <i>get me, support me, love me</i> and I felt Jesus. I appreciate tough seasons in moments of pure joy, not for any one reason but because I made it out the other side. Bruised and a little beaten up but <i>I made it</i>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Kansas City has been warm and sunny; man oh man did I miss the sun on my face. I had Lamars donuts for breakfast without any trace of guilt because #treatyoself</span>. <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">My muscles are sore and I thank my body for being good to me. I've come to the realization that I love my body just the way she is but I want to be better, faster, stronger (kanye, anyone?). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I should really clean my kitchen from the bucatini diablo I made Wednesday</span> <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">but that's the <i>glory of living alone</i>. All of a sudden I feel the need to savor my singleness because it won't last forever. I enjoy being silent and in my own company. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Acne scars are fading and I'm loving minimal, glowy, bronzed makeup. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Life is happening and it's <i>terrifying</i> and <i>satisfying</i> all at the same time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">*photo original to Sophisticated Bliss </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-34990937754443679642015-02-02T10:42:00.000-08:002015-02-02T10:42:16.808-08:00Brand Spotlight // Ole Henriksen<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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<small><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I love Ole Henriksen products. It started as most love affairs...we flirted, which made me only want more. Thus turning into a full blown exclusive relationship. I guess I should start at the beginning. My skin decided to freak out right before my 25th birthday. I struggled with mild cystic acne & thanks to <span style="color: #c27ba0;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/anti-bac-clearing-lotion-P232907?keyword=KATE%20SOMERVILLE%20Anti%20Bac%20Clearing%20Lotion%20P232907&skuId=1167139&_requestid=119752" target="_blank">benzoyl peroxide</a></span>, slowly but surely my skin recovered. However, thanks to mean girl acne my skin was scarred with hyper-pigmentation. I've never really heard anyone talk about Ole's products but the bright packaging caught my eye at Sephora. I tried out the <span style="color: #c27ba0;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/3-little-wonders-mini-collection-P389051?keyword=OLE%20HENRIKSEN%203%20Little%20Wonders%E2%84%A2%20Mini%20Collection%20P389051&skuId=1552884&_requestid=120380" target="_blank">3 Little Wonders</a></span> mini set & was instantly hooked. I bought that set twice before I decided to fully commit. To get the best bang for your buck I suggest buying the 3 Little Wonders full size set, I got mine before holiday time which came with an extra bonus of African Red Tea Cleanser. I then stared to notice Ole products at TJ Maxx & Marshalls....#score. My skin can be sensitive but none of these products made me break out, cause more oil production, or dried my skin. My skin is radiant, produces less oil, & hyper-pigmentation had faded significantly. In fact, after using these products I started to consistently get more compliments on my makeup application. Ole for the win! </span></span></small><br />
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<small><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/african-red-tea-foaming-cleanser-P211343?icid2=ole_lp_bestsellers_carousel_P211343_image" target="_blank">African Red Tea Cleanser </a>// I use this in the morning, smells amazing & doesn't strip my skin.</span></span></small></div>
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<small><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/sheer-transformation-P42342?icid2=ole_lp_3littlewonders_carousel_P42342_image" target="_blank">Sheer Transformation</a> // Amazing for my oily skin, sinks in beautifully & provides the perfect amount of moisture. I have a backup of this, which I've never done with any product. like ever. </span></span></small></div>
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<small><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ole-Henriksen-Night-Enlighten-Corrector/dp/B00H3E6R2G/ref=sr_1_3?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1422837187&sr=1-3&keywords=enlighten+me" target="_blank">Enlighten Me Skin Tone Corrector</a> // This is a newer one that I found in a <span style="color: #c27ba0;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Englighten-Kit-Transformation-Enlighten-Corrector/dp/B00DZPFXF4/ref=sr_1_1?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1422836560&sr=1-1&keywords=enlighten+me+set" target="_blank">set at Marshalls</a></span> for only $20! So far, I'm loving it under my morning moisturizer. </span></span></small></div>
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<small><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ole-Henriksen-Sugar-Glow-Scrub/dp/B0036IPPRG/ref=sr_1_2?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1422837220&sr=1-2&keywords=ole+henriksen+scrub" target="_blank">Sugar Glow Scrub</a> // I think this may be discontinued. #sadface I found mine once again at TJ Maxx. I use it about 2-3 times a week in the shower as it can be quit messy. Smells & tastes good. </span></span></small></div>
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<small><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/invigorating-night-treatment-P42330?icid2=ole_lp_3littlewonders_carousel_P42330_image" target="_blank">Invigorating Night Treatment</a> // I use this every night before bed, the fruit acids leave my skin so glowy by morning. </span></span></small></div>
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<small><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/power-peel-trade-professional-spa-grade-kit-P375421?icid2=ole_lp_bestsellers_carousel_P375421_image" target="_blank">Power Peel</a> // This was also included in the Enlighten Me set, includes an almond scrub, a peel, & a mask. I've only used it once & it was lovely. </span></span></small></div>
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<small><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.sephora.com/truth-serum-vitamin-c-collagen-booster-P42343?icid2=ole_lp_bestsellers_carousel_P42343_image" target="_blank">Truth Serum</a> // I don't use this as much because it causes my makeup primer to pill but other than that it soaks in nicely & has really helped with hyper-pigmentation. </span></span></small></div>
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<small><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I love that all of his products consist of natural ingredients. On his website he lists all ingredients & their specific purpose. I can't say enough positive things about this brand. No, I'm not being compensated for this post. All products were purchased with my hard earned dinero. Get some samples next time you're at Sephora, your skin with thank you. Trust me. </span></span></small></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-84954744960331313642015-01-16T07:10:00.001-08:002015-01-16T07:10:41.059-08:00oh hey friday // 5 randoms<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Cheers friends, it's Friday! This week doesn't seem to have drug on like last week, praise the Lord. I've put together some random thing's I'm loving this week. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">1. I worked out 3 times this week, woo-hoo! I did a leg day, arms + shoulders + abs, & a plyo day. It's truly amazing what our bodies can do, we don't give them enough credit. Super excited for Spring + warmer weather to get moving outside!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">2. I've been hunting for an affordable black crossbody but it's been hard to find what I want that's also in a reasonable price range. Annnnd this is why I love Hautelook. Hautelook has flash sales that last only a few days, I typically only buy makeup but I couldn't pass up this Rebecca Minkoff bag & I used Christmas money. Win win! I've also been searching for curtains. Why are curtains so dang expensive? I found these first through Macy's but they were actually less expensive through another site. Another win! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">3. Ginger beer. Some reason I always thought ginger beer was ginger flavored regular beer. I hate the taste of beer so I never tried it. Silly me. I stumbled across a blog post about all different kinds of ginger beer & how it can help with an upset stomach. I tend to get a sour stomach so I'm always looking for a symptom reliever. I got this from Trader Joe's & it's quite tasty. Not too sweet, not too spicy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">4. Jayhawk basketball. The team is finally starting to mesh & we're looking good. This dunk against Oklahoma State is nasty. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">5. I always love <a href="http://www.designlovefest.com/2015/01/dress-your-tech-78/" target="_blank">Design Love Fest's</a> wallpapers but this batch is awesome + motivating!</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y97vqxMmYcI/VLcibKlHKHI/AAAAAAAAAXg/HmRmIfx7AKk/s1600/work.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y97vqxMmYcI/VLcibKlHKHI/AAAAAAAAAXg/HmRmIfx7AKk/s1600/work.jpg" height="400" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I hope everyone has an amazing, relaxing weekend! </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.thegritsblog.com/search/label/Little%20Friday" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="The Grits Blog - Little Friday Linkup"><img alt="The Grits Blog - Little Friday Linkup" src="http://i58.tinypic.com/2zqfz4p.jpg" style="border: currentColor;" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-10795385815227741972015-01-12T07:28:00.000-08:002015-01-12T07:28:32.638-08:00Influenster Voxbox<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">This is my third Influenster VoxBox but the first time I've received one while having a blog. These are always fun to get in the mail because they're always filled with a plethora of goodies. It's quick & easy to sign up for a box of your own on Influenster. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> <strong>1. NYC Expert Last Lip Color in Sugarplum // $1.99</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--the formula seems nice but the color is frosty, probably won't wear this too much.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>2. Celestial Seasonings Candy Cane Lane Decaf Green Tea // 1 bag</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--I love peppermint tea, loved this.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>3. EcoTools Hair Brush // $10.99</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--When I round-brush my hair, I use a boar bristle round brush. I tried this brush & it worked...don't love it or hate it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>4. McCormick Gourmet Thyme // $4.79</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--honestly, I chuckled when I saw this...so random. Haven't used it yet but I can always use seasoning...thinking of making thyme & rosemary red baby potatoes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>5. Fruit Vines Bites // $1.28-$1.79</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--sadly I can't eat chewy candies anymore, trouble with fillings that I have yet to get fixed. whoops. However, I do enjoy redvines. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>6. Rimmel Gentle Eyes Makeup Remover // $7.49</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--typically I don't need eye makeup remover....this did the job. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>7. Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Eyeliner // $4.49</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--I love Rimmel as a brand, they never disappoint. I have enough black eyeliner to last me a lifetime...thanks Ipsy. This was creamy & very black....& absolutely waterproof. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>8. No7 Protect & Perfect Advanced Serum // $22.99</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--haven't tried this yet, I've almost mastered my skincare routine & don't want to risk messing it up. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Head over to Influenster & get your own box!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">*I received these products complimentary for review purposes</span> </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-33818178846096167322015-01-09T07:30:00.000-08:002015-01-09T07:30:28.539-08:002015 : goals + vision<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">One of the most impactful lessons I've learned from my boss/mentor is to set goals with actionable to-dos. I've fought him on it because it requires digging deep, past surface level stuff. You can't say you want to pay off debt & not have specific actions in place to achieve that goal. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Vision is much broader & possibly abstract. Vision can be what you want you life to look like this year or in 10 years. I've wrestled with vision because I know Jesus has already mapped out my steps...so who am I to think I can change that. God put things on our hearts for a reason, he gives us great vision for our lives. In a way, you speak "it" into existence. For example, marriage is one of the biggest desires in my heart. I'm following where Jesus is taking me but I'm also being proactive, which is key. I'm a researcher by nature, so when something peaks my interest I dive in. I've listened to podcasts about what a healthy Christian marriage looks like. I read blogs where couples are vulnerable</span> & <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">honest about challenges marriages face. I'm preparing myself so when the time comes...I have the tools necessary to succeed. </span></div>
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<u><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">2015 Goals:</span></b></u></div>
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<b>::</b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>get in the best physical shape of my life</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--exercise 3-4 times a week</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--limit fast food/eating out to weekends</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>::</b> <b>advance my career to the next level</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--deeper & more meaningful conversations with customers</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--continue to be a leader by actions/sales</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--sell my butt off/make more $$</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>::</b> <b>blog</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--post 2-3 times a week</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--grow readership by being consistent</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--impactful & intentional content </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">:: faith</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--join church I'm attending</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--join Grace groups </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">--build community/fellowship</span></div>
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<u><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">2015 Vision</span></b></u>:</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">:: by the end of 2015 I'll be an entrepreneur</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">:: relationship with Christ will be even stronger</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Have you written out your goals yet? Link them below so I can check them out!</span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-36451438954064765912015-01-05T07:11:00.000-08:002015-01-05T07:11:47.752-08:00here's to looking ahead <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YeirPkVi8to/VKmI0auPlQI/AAAAAAAAAU0/eU9IP8Jx2Ck/s1600/2015%2Bcollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YeirPkVi8to/VKmI0auPlQI/AAAAAAAAAU0/eU9IP8Jx2Ck/s1600/2015%2Bcollage.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.paperclipsandpeonies.com/new-year-wallpaper-free-download/" target="_blank">1</a>//<a href="http://ohthepossibiliteas.tumblr.com/post/106801664728/1000drawings-paperless-post" target="_blank">2</a>//<a href="http://instagram.com/p/xLH_uxDyMh/?modal=true" target="_blank">3</a>//4//<a href="http://andrewclifton.tumblr.com/post/83913122233" target="_blank">5</a><span id="goog_894723925"></span><span id="goog_894723926"></span>//<a href="http://thegoodvibe.co/post/106281461473" target="_blank">6</a>//<a href="http://chelcx.com/post/87089543610" target="_blank">7</a></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I feel like 2014 was challenging for a lot of people. I've never really been one for New Year's resolutions...I mean, who really keeps them anyway? I've also never wanted to see a year end as badly as 2014. Reflection has been heavy on my mind...what good are struggles if we don't have any take-a-ways? I ran across that quote by R.M. Drake on Instagram & it really resonated with me. The toughest times in my life catapulted me into some of the happiest & created the biggest self development. Never in my life have I felt like it's truly my time to <i>win</i></span>. <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Now is the time to tap into your full potential; mind, body, spirit. 2015 will be electrifying...no need to be afraid of failure or greatness. We can conquer 2015 & do it <i>well</i>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Keep shining....the world needs your light!</span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-8161221014670667422014-11-18T08:55:00.002-08:002014-11-18T08:55:36.895-08:00q & a // 20 facts about me<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span><span style="color: #666666; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://naimabarcelona.tumblr.com/post/96610778741/ig-belgianfashionbrunette" target="_blank">via </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I thought it would be fun to do a little "get to know me" post since I haven't really done one since I started this little blog. Here we go!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"></span> <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 1 // How tall are you?</strong> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: 5 feet 5 inches </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 2 // Do you have a hidden talent? If so, what?</strong> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: I have a mean jumpshot & I <em>will</em> beat you in a game of horse</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Question 3 // </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">What’s your biggest blog-related pet peeve?</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: having to sign in to comment, especially on WordPress...frustrating to jump through hoops to tell ya how awesome your post was </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 4 // What’s your biggest non-blog related pet peeve?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: bad drivers; people who drive slow in the left lane, people who don't give "the wave" when you let them over, when it's down to one lane & someone speeds to the front & sneaks in (I have a slight case of road rage)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 5 // What’s your favorite song?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: Three Little Birds - Bob Marley, Fat Bottomed Girls - Queen, Friends in Low Places - Garth Brooks</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Question 6 // </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">What’s your favorite Etsy shop that isn’t yours?</span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/GlamLambCreations?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">Glam Lamb Creations</span></a> - her prints are gorgeous</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 7 // What’s your favorite way to spend your free time when you’re alone?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: catching up on my DVR, purusing through Target or Hobby Lobby</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 8 // What’s your favorite junk food?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: french fries & chocolate</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 9 // Do you have a pet or pets? If so, what kind and what are their names?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: Buster Brown, Jack Russell Terrier ...he's the family pet & lives with my mom</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 10 // What are your number one favorite nonfiction and fiction books?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: fiction - Pride & Prejudice , The Great Gatsby </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: nonfiction - <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Work-Love-Pray-Professional-Understand/dp/0310331374/ref=pd_bxgy_b_text_y" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">Work, Pray, Love by Diane Paddison</span></a> (great for professional Christian women)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 11 // What’s your favorite beauty product?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/estee-lauder-double-wear-stay-in-place-liquid-makeup/3383085?origin=PredictiveSearchProducts" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">Estee Lauder Double Wear foundation</span></a>, <a href="http://www.maccosmetics.com/product/shaded/149/263/Eye-Brows/index.tmpl" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">MAC brow pencil</span></a>, <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/chanel-le-volume-de-chanel-mascara/3405125?origin=srcontent?keyword=__chanel-le-volume" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">Le Volume de Chanel mascara</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 12 // When were you last embarrassed? What happened?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: uhh, really can't remember but I hate to be embarrassed </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 13 // If you could only drink one beverage (besides water) for the rest of your life, what would it be?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: coffee; dark + bold with a splash of vanilla caramel creamer </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 14 // What’s your favorite movie?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: Pride & Prejudice, The Great Gatsby, Wedding Crashers, Labyrinth</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 15 // What were you in high school: prom queen, nerd, cheerleader, jock, valedictorian, band geek, loner, artist, prep?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: Probably a jock, was voted "social butterfly" my senior year</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 16 // If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: Not that I've ever been but I dream of Paris</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 17 // PC or Mac?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: Never owned a Mac laptop, so I can't really compare</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 18 // Last romantic gesture from a crush, date, boyfriend, spouse?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: I'm single as a dollar bill...but when a stranger tells me I'm pretty</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 19 // Favorite celebrity?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: Rihanna, duh </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><strong>Question 20 // What blogger do you secretly want to be best friends with?</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">:: Estee from <a href="http://www.essiebutton.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">Essie Button</span></a> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">If you answer these questions on your blog, let me know! I'd love to read your answers!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-82228424257155500422014-11-06T09:01:00.000-08:002014-11-06T09:01:59.017-08:00Birthday reflections // 26 was a journey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I love celebrating birthdays...especially my own. Except this year. Can I be real? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">26 was just plain hard. I feel like I've finally come out the other side & looking back I'm amazed at not only myself but God. I have a hard time allowing myself to embrace accomplishments</span>. <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I'm proud that I graduated college in May while working full time</span> <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">in a sales position. I'm proud of my relationship with Christ. I'm proud that I finally started this blog. I'm proud of the woman I am because I fought to become her. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">There were times I would come home from work, jump straight into homework & start balling because I was completely overwhelmed. After graduation I felt lost, as if my life had no real purpose...why am I really here. To say summer 2014 wrecked me is an understatement.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> I've spent a lot of time on my face before Jesus this 26th year of my life. I still get surprised at how truly amazing God is. He <i>always</i> meets me when I need him the most. He's tested my faith more times than I'd like to recall. I've been through some <i>stuff</i></span><i> </i><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">in my lifetime, as we all go through...you realize how strong you are. 26 was a journey, most of it I felt as if I were on an island...just me & God. While I've always had an amazing support system around me, I learned that God's opinion is the <i>only one</i> that matters. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">His constant pursuit of my heart is unparallelled; I attempt to wrap my head around that & it blows my mind. Recently I've come across complete strangers who have pointed out my patience & kindness. They've also said something to the effect of "you have something great coming soon". I don't believe in coincidences, everything happens for a reason. I can't help but think this past year has prepared me for what's soon to come. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I'm thankful for the struggle, without it success wouldn't taste as sweet. Cheers to you pretty girl, you're amazing & I am beyond proud of you & how far you've come...here's to 27!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-21814036994516565312014-10-29T12:23:00.001-07:002014-10-29T12:27:19.222-07:00white knuckle, hair raising, stomach churning....goodness <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Have I mentioned that I love Halloween? Oh, only a few times? Scary movies were a thing in our house growing up. From Alfred Hitchcock's <em>The Birds </em>to Ann Rice's <em>Interview with the Vampire, </em>I've enjoyed the adrennaline rush of being scared (in the comfort of my own home, of course). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">In no particular order, I've compiled a list of my favorite scary movies. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0096071/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Serpent and the Rainbow</a></strong> // My dad is not a movie guy, can't keep his eyes peeled long enough but this is one of his favorites that quickly became mine. Voodoo turning people in to zombies...oh yeah!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0162661/?ref_=nv_sr_2" target="_blank">Sleepy Hollow</a></strong> // Johnny Depp is ahh-mazing at playing creepy or creeped out characters & throw in Christopher Walken as the headless horseman...winner. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094721/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Beetlejuice</a></strong> // Classic in so many ways...I heard recently that they are doing a sequel of sorts with the original cast. Yes please! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1130884/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Shutter Island</a></strong> // Leo can do no wrong in my eyes & Martin Scorsese as the director knocks it out of the park. More of a mystery/thriller than sure terror but keeps you guessing until the end. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1591095/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Insidious</a></strong> // I made my brother watch this with me & still clinched the covers...it was <em>that</em> scary. I haven't seen the sequel yet however it's on Netflix, so you know what that means.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0081505/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1" target="_blank">The Shining</a></strong> // If you haven't seen it, what's wrong with you? No, seriously....rent it & prepare to be freaked out. Jack Nicholson is perfectly terrifying & will have you rethinking a trip to the cabin in the dead of winter. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0320691/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Underworld</a></strong> // I love vampires, more than zombies or werewolves...but not all vampires are created equal. Forget Twlight & twinkly skin...real vampires need only apply. Kate Beckinsale is one my favorite actors and she kicks butt in this series. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I can't compile a list without the obvious picks; Hocus Pocus, The Addams Family, the original Halloween, A Nightmare on Elm Street, & The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">I must've watched A Nightmare on Elm Street as a child because for the longest time I was terrified of Freddy Krueger...like legitmately thought he was going to get me in my dreams lol. I also was teased by older cousins with a Chucky doll, I avoid Chucky movies to this day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">Did I forget any of your favorite classics? Let me know! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">One more <em>very important</em> thing, our Kansas City Royals are taking the crown tonight in game 7 of the World Series! Good luck boys! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><a href="http://finditkc.com/event/take-crown-royals-playoff-rally/" target="_blank">via</a></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-53163130901530629422014-10-03T05:24:00.000-07:002014-10-03T05:24:47.829-07:00oh hey, friday // 5 recipes to try<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Can I just confess that food blogs are probably one of my favorites to read</span>. <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Cooking alone in my kitchen with some Bob Marley in the background is so relaxing. I know some people are cringing right now. Plus enjoying something you made is pretty satisfying. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I've rounded up some recipes I'm dying to try out, enjoy! </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Crock-Pot Maple Pumpkin Spice Chex Mix</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9r65xCzt39g/VC3-BoSJUaI/AAAAAAAAARE/k1ok_fNV33E/s1600/crockpotchexmix-11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9r65xCzt39g/VC3-BoSJUaI/AAAAAAAAARE/k1ok_fNV33E/s1600/crockpotchexmix-11.jpg" height="400" width="288" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.averiecooks.com/2014/10/crock-pot-maple-pumpkin-spice-chex-mix.html" target="_blank"><u><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>via</b></span></span></span></u></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> Doesn't this scream Fall? YES to everything about this recipe!</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">One-Pan Cacio E Pepe</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--CPew62Wrq0/VC4BC8cQfqI/AAAAAAAAARQ/W46B02N73CA/s1600/IMG_16961-682x1024111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--CPew62Wrq0/VC4BC8cQfqI/AAAAAAAAARQ/W46B02N73CA/s1600/IMG_16961-682x1024111.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://bakerbynature.com/one-pan-cacio-e-pepe/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;"><u><b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">via</span></b></u></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">One pan, simple, & cheesy...yep, I'm making you. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Baked Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p2Ca_Q-GJuk/VC4EESJiYFI/AAAAAAAAARc/oFu5j3TANPI/s1600/IMG_8782edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p2Ca_Q-GJuk/VC4EESJiYFI/AAAAAAAAARc/oFu5j3TANPI/s1600/IMG_8782edit.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://damndelicious.net/2014/09/15/baked-pumpkin-cream-cheese-french-toast/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;"><u><b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">via</span></b></u></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I've been wanting to try baked french toast for a while, why not throw in pumpkin & cream cheese filling. Get in my belly ret-nah.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;">Homemade Pumpkin Spice Coffee Syrup</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w8wKM3ynBaM/VC4GP5_HBLI/AAAAAAAAARo/b8xICcWyhuk/s1600/e25ac7dfcf73bffa00f682699f72c40a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w8wKM3ynBaM/VC4GP5_HBLI/AAAAAAAAARo/b8xICcWyhuk/s1600/e25ac7dfcf73bffa00f682699f72c40a.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: large;"> </span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.inkatrinaskitchen.com/2013/09/homemade-pumpkin-spice-coffee-syrup.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u>via</u></span></span></a></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I cannot drink the PSL from Starbucks...wayyy too sweet + it has that weird caramel color #4 in it that supposedly causes cancer. I've perfected my coffee making at home so this would be nice to add to it. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Apple Crisp</span></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/2012/11/the-best-apple-crisp-youll-ever-have-with-brown-butter-vanilla-bean-bourbon/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;"><u><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">via</span></b></u></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Browned butter seems challenging but I mean, it's just burning butter...can't be that hard, right? Apples, oats, bourbon...yasss. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">So clearly I'll need to be consuming lots of salad to balance out all this sweet goodness, which is fine by me. I have been enjoying kale salads with pecans, dried berry medley, & homemade vinaigrette. Fall food is da best. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Have an awesome weekend!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-48810463688106585772014-10-01T08:36:00.000-07:002014-10-01T08:38:59.292-07:00Kansas City stand up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GYH-jZEWmI8/VCwYdoGMNOI/AAAAAAAAAQU/K7_bUqyv830/s1600/7730952314_acaec44ca8_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GYH-jZEWmI8/VCwYdoGMNOI/AAAAAAAAAQU/K7_bUqyv830/s1600/7730952314_acaec44ca8_b.jpg" height="320" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/80935262@N03/7730952314/in/photolist-cMa9Mh-bEnX89-divr8y-iygHDg-nHJWvS-8xTT7F-movBf2-pa6AUc-oji92S-oAtK9B-pd7F6i-oRvyhr-efoYnF-a4ik9m-9Qfxvn-dskCcj-8wpK2b-9eETUj-cBmsK7-b4kazr-e4ncsS-f8qrfq-97MK9c-9m9Q42-mUfeXH-9BXuSa-8yxDtA-akQmeF-bFfKbc-9v5BDB-9v5xnv-a7sgo1-8T6BHS-9xGYC7-am7qaC-a24EAs-9C5TAC-fc7GJv-oVPGYa-nQoFYt-ozKq9N-omb5r9-8bGqbv-noFS3Y-91q7ML-eQDfmK-bEnGVN-dccQY1-bnttbk-7SQ1AV-9H8ViZ" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">via</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I just have to take a few moments to gush about my city. If you're a sports fan I'm sure you watched or heard about the Royals vs. Athletics game last night. I'll be honest, I'm not a baseball fan...however I love this city & I love the underdog. For my entire life, the Royals have been mediocre at best...29 years since the last playoff appearance. But last night they came to win. I love a story that has heart & gumption...intense isn't even the best word to describe the emotion of the game. All of Kansas City is groggy & highly caffeinated this morning. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/10/01/kansas-city-royals-walk-off-perez_n_5911064.html" target="_blank">via</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-COG8EWtbBuM/VCwaiO8JzyI/AAAAAAAAAQk/1e_GrmsF92U/s1600/slide_371994_4312840_compressed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-COG8EWtbBuM/VCwaiO8JzyI/AAAAAAAAAQk/1e_GrmsF92U/s1600/slide_371994_4312840_compressed.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/10/01/kansas-city-royals-walk-off-perez_n_5911064.html" target="_blank">via</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Can I also remind everyone of the mudstomping the Chiefs put on the New England Patriots Monday night? Oh & we broke the record for loudest stadium, no biggie. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><a href="http://www.kcchiefs.com/news/article-2/Top-5-Headlines-930-KC-Enjoys-Long-Awaited-Spotlight/262fcc73-efd0-4b03-b9dc-13dfa24c2f3a#8bcb72f1-01ac-43d2-b955-45decaea7b58" target="_blank">via</a></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I love sports & I love my city...this is an unforgettable week in Kansas City. </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-84939501023148678212014-09-29T10:10:00.000-07:002014-09-29T10:10:19.414-07:00praise break<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uh_xdDRFjjs/VCmJk0S2umI/AAAAAAAAAP4/RS-ERTnGR1Y/s1600/lake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uh_xdDRFjjs/VCmJk0S2umI/AAAAAAAAAP4/RS-ERTnGR1Y/s1600/lake.JPG" height="360" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">lake of the Ozarks, summer 2014</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I've had a rough go of it the past month & a half. God has wrecked my heart & my plans for what I <em>though</em>t my future would look like. I'd like to think of myself as a generally happy person but I've strug-gled since this change came about. I've wrestled with God about my future; I'm a bit of a control freak & planner. I was in Target Sautrday literally giving myself a pep talk. I have the most amazing support system around me, seriously these people are my biggest encouragers. But sometimes you have to look in the mirror & say "girl, you are amazing, & strong, & powerful, & a <em>winner</em>....you <em>WILL</em> accomplish what God has put on your heart." I'm a deep thinker & analyze things to death, therefore I have to remind myself to let God & let go. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>"...but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perserverance; perserverance, character; & character, hope." -Romans 5:3-4</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Those two verses sum everything up...even when attacks are being flung my way...I'm still blessed & I'm still safe & God still has me in the palm of his mighty hands. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;">If you're struggling I just want to enocurage you to keep fighting, spiritual warfare is a very real thing. God will never bring you to it without bringing you through it. It's uncomfortable & it hurts...but girlfriend it's so worth it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia;"><strong>Chose joy even in the midst of the storm & peace will follow.</strong></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-59475646677443768572014-09-27T09:28:00.000-07:002014-09-27T09:28:01.882-07:00day 27 // fall wishlist<div xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/fall_wishlist/set?.embedder=11318994&.svc=blogger&id=135951696" target="_blank"><img alt="fall wishlist" border="0" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/hxYXPLadzUv0zwrcYm2gqw/cid/135951696/id/1lleL2FG5BG4Dvotm_7EJQ/size/c600x454.jpg" force="1" height="454" title="fall wishlist" width="600" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11318994&.svc=blogger&id=92857949" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/92857949.jpg" force="1" height="50" hspace="4" title="Kelly Katie slip on loafer" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11318994&.svc=blogger&id=114082720" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/114082720.jpg" force="1" height="50" hspace="4" title="Chanel mascara" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11318994&.svc=blogger&id=116858834" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/116858834.jpg" force="1" height="50" hspace="4" title="Gap red buffalo plaid shirt" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11318994&.svc=blogger&id=117431218" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/117431218.jpg" force="1" height="50" hspace="4" title="Steve Madden high heel shoes" vspace="4" width="50" /></a><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=11318994&.svc=blogger&id=119499268" rel="nofollow" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/119499268.jpg" force="1" height="50" hspace="4" title="Rebecca Minkoff crossbody purse" vspace="4" width="50" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>Buffalo Plaid</b> // I've been on the hunt for awhile, raiding thrift stores is my next mission.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>Boots</b> // these would go with anything, sort of a necessity.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>V-neck</b> // anyone else have trouble finding one that fits perfectly? I'm going to try these mens Hanes next.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>Leopard loafers</b> // staple in any wardrobe, I have a pair but need a little bit of an upgrade.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>Rebecca Minkoff bag</b> // wanted one for awhile, I love the structure of this one + it's not the mini MAC everyone & their mother own.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>Le Volume de Chanel</b> // my secret weapon, seriously. I've been trying to use up samples of other mascaras before I repurchase. This mascara will change your life. Trust me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Anything in particular you're craving for Fall?</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-66878455044331100672014-09-24T19:03:00.000-07:002014-09-24T19:03:47.611-07:00the circle // fall favorites<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GbcLuAFhtsY/VCMg0uOd0FI/AAAAAAAAANs/RT7gzn4Fi14/s1600/fall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GbcLuAFhtsY/VCMg0uOd0FI/AAAAAAAAANs/RT7gzn4Fi14/s1600/fall.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<b><u><a href="http://www.countryliving.com/outdoor/fall-quotes#slide-18" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">via</span></a></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I love any & everything Fall...#sorrynotsorry for all</span> <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">related posts. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>1// Favorite Fall fashion/clothing item?</b> </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BQjt5xkQklM/VCNfZsw0TgI/AAAAAAAAAN8/EhwWghUqGRo/s1600/boots.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BQjt5xkQklM/VCNfZsw0TgI/AAAAAAAAAN8/EhwWghUqGRo/s1600/boots.png" height="212" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><a href="http://www.rakuten.com/prod/steve-madden-women-s-cinch-cut-out-buckled-ankle-boot/259682476.html?sellerid=9373231&sclid=pla_google_ShoeDistrict&adid=29963&gclid=CjwKEAjw14mhBRC0vdSNkI2l7CASJAC8OFS0u-GjOvvpI820iwMLHFvlUVV1mTl43Xl7pIy6mXDCpxoCCkfw_wcB" target="_blank"><u><b><span style="color: #666666;">1</span></b></u></a>/<a href="http://www.shiekhshoes.com/p-44947-timberland-mens-6-inch-premium-boots-tan.aspx?gclid=CjwKEAjw14mhBRC0vdSNkI2l7CASJAC8OFS0TPd3slO3GLqyHSth0nVL1DYg5-i0HXCaJu00n4JmRhoCYj_w_wcB" target="_blank"><u><b><span style="color: #666666;">2</span></b></u></a>/<a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/steve-madden-yale-belted-boot-women/3725564?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=COGNAC+LEATHER&resultback=949&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-browseresults-_-1_4_D" target="_blank"><u><b><span style="color: #666666;">3</span></b></u></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Last Spring I was on the hunt for those Steve Madden booties, I found them on super sale...although they're a little harder to find now. But I l-o-v-e them. Timbs...I've had the same pair since high school. Not everyone's cup of tea...which makes me love wearing them even more. I don't own the last pair of Steve Madden's but I want, I need! Boots are so Fall!</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">2// Favorite Fall drink? </span></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://mydarlingvegan.com/2012/09/spicy-chai-tea-latte/" target="_blank"><u><span style="color: #666666;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">via</span></span></u></a> </b></div>
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<b> </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Once the air gets chillier, I crave chai tea latte's. They're spicy & warm...pretty much perfe</span>ct!</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">3// Fall bucket list?</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Liberty.Corn.Maze/photos/pb.85026212612.-2207520000.1411607355./10152384926722613/?type=3&theater" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;"><u>1</u></span></a>/<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/jlstoker/my-creations/" target="_blank"><u><span style="color: #666666;">2</span></u></a>/<a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0107120/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;"><u>3</u></span></a></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I've never been to the Liberty corn maze & think it'd be so fun! Making a wreath is also on my to-do list. Hocus Pocus is a classic, duh. </span><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></b></div>
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<b> </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>4// Favorite Fall recipe?</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><a href="http://www.alexandracooks.com/2011/10/13/pumpkin-bread/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;"><u><b>via</b></u></span></a><span style="color: #666666;"><u><b> </b></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Hands down, pumpkin bread. Reminds me of my childhood and the smell of it baking feels like home. </span> </div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">5// Favorite Fall scent?</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Mahogany Teakwood is an all-year fav but especially during Fall, smells like the perfect man. Leaves is crisp & an apple scent that isn't too sweet. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>6// Favorite Fall holiday?</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s-AtYsbVBpU/VCN2IXVbBpI/AAAAAAAAAPI/54iqcbZpDkE/s1600/halloween.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s-AtYsbVBpU/VCN2IXVbBpI/AAAAAAAAAPI/54iqcbZpDkE/s1600/halloween.png" height="211" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/159617573/trick-or-treat-sign-halloween-chalkboard?ref=sr_gallery_44&ga_search_query=Halloween+decor&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_ship_to=US&ga_page=9&ga_search_type=all" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;"><u>1</u></span></a>/<a href="http://www.kidskubby.com/8-pumpkin-ideas-without-carving/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;"><u>2</u></span></a>/<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/34691859602782738/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #666666;">3</span></a><span style="color: #666666;"><u> </u></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">It's no secret, I'm obsessed with Halloween. Scary movies, candy, carving pumpkins...I love it all. My dad's girlfriend & I decided to have a little get together this year...make fun themed food, watch movies, & hand out candy. Uber excited! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"> What are your Fall favorites?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Linking up with The Circle this month!</span></div>
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<br /><a href="http://paintchipmadness.blogspot.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="In Its Time" src="http://i1158.photobucket.com/albums/p601/paintchipmadness/thecircle2014.png" style="border: medium none;" width="250" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02615162830969773714noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3892934027932441909.post-16335238533967131142014-09-22T07:23:00.000-07:002014-09-22T07:23:03.229-07:00day 22 // blogs i love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://s1072.photobucket.com/user/HelloMondayDesign/media/Hello%20Monday/Posts/hello_monday_coffee_zps8c2a9200.jpg.html" target="_blank">via</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">I love stumbling across a blog I truly connect with. I have to admit I'm quite picky when it comes to blogs I read everyday. I prefer a clean aesthetic & a writer I relate to. Without further ado, here are a few blogs I adore...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: #666666;"><b><a href="http://www.megfee.com/" target="_blank">Meg Fee</a></b></span> // No clue how I found her blog, but man am I glad I did. Rarely do I discover a blog whose writing sucks me in. Her writing is eloquent & real; she's so raw & I appreciate that. I love how she speaks about singledom, wanting versus needing a man. I want to high five her & then hug her. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: #666666;"><b><a href="http://sincerelyjules.com/" target="_blank">Sincerely Jules</a></b></span> // Oh Jules...she's my style crush. She wears dresses with sneakers, a girl after my own heart. She's chic but not stuffy. She's always traveling...absolutely jealous of her <span style="color: #666666;"><a href="http://instagram.com/sincerelyjules" target="_blank">instagram</a></span> photos. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b><span style="color: #666666;"><a href="http://www.makeupandbeautyblog.com/" target="_blank">Makeup & Beauty Blog</a></span></b> //</span> <span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Karen reviews high end as well as drug store makeup, skin care, & hair products. I respect that she gives her honest opinion about products. She posts multiple reviews a day, always leaving me wanting more. I swear I could read makeup blogs all day & not get bored. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b><span style="color: #666666;"><a href="http://pinchofyum.com/" target="_blank">Pinch of Yum</a></span></b> // Pretty sure this was one of the first blogs I started checking in on often. I've made several of Lindsay's recipe's & girlfriend never disappoints. Savory + sweet, this food blog offers everything your heart desires. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><b><span style="color: #666666;"><a href="http://christinedovey.com/blog/" target="_blank">Bijou & Boheme</a></span></b> // Christine Dovey is an amazeballs interior designer. I l-o-v-e her design style & she even gives sneaks peeks on projects she's currently working on. If you're needing design inspiration, check her out!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">What are your favorite blogs? I'd love to check them out!</span></div>
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