Monday, December 31, 2012

To Be a Woman...

"Being tender and open is beautiful. As a woman, I feel continually shhh’ed. Too sensitive. Too mushy. Too wishy washy. Blah blah. Don’t let someone steal your tenderness. Don’t allow the coldness and fear of others to tarnish your perfectly vulnerable beating heart. Nothing is more powerful than allowing yourself to truly be affected by things. Whether it’s a song, a stranger, a mountain, a rain drop, a tea kettle, an article, a sentence, a footstep, feel it all – look around you. All of this is for you. Take it and have gratitude. Give it and feel love.

-Zooey Deschanel 

My Wish To You on New Year's Eve...

That there will be champagne! 

& that you kiss the one you love one minute before, and one minute after so you can have the perfect ending and a perfect beginning.... 

Wednesday, December 26, 2012

How To Recharge After the Holidays



1. No emailing after work hours

2. Eat for energy not for comfort

3. Read in the tub, or other comfortable area

4. Schedule a hot yoga class

5. Take a real lunch break

6. Laugh...more

7. Go to bed by 11 pm

8. Sip green tea

9. Hug someone...everyday

10. Revel in success before moving on. 

Friday, December 14, 2012

An Excerpt: Tangible


It's probably crazy, she thought, to long for moments lost in time; secret glances from across the room, resonating warmth from the slight touch of hand. She could still see his eyes; dark and revealing, intoxicating in nature. Through tangled sheets, she turns trying to figure it all out. Was it ever real or was it fabrication? 
She feel as though a part of her is missing; the air in her lungs cast upon the clouds. So often, she finds herself reaching for him in her dreams, cultivating treasured illusions that make her feel alive. Crazy, she presumes. Crazy to think that what he felt for her was tangible...


Prelude To A Dream

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

My Favorite Slow Cooker Recipes: Meat Lovers Lasagna

My Recipe For Meat Lovers Slow Cooker Lasagna 
(Yes this can be done, and the result is amazing)

What you need:

1 lb. Sweet Italian Sausage
1 lb. ground beef
5 Slices Bacon, Cooked
1 box of Lasagna Noodles, uncooked
8 oz. Ricotta Cheese 
1 Egg
4 cups mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup parmesan cheese
1/4 cup white wine
2 tablespoons of butter
1 onion, diced
1 green pepper, diced
salt 
pepper
Italian Seasoning
Parsley
2 jars of tomato sauce (I used Garlic & Herb and Meat) 
Garlic (if desired) 

What you need to do:

1. Brown ground beef. I like to cook my beef with a little onion, so I added a handful or so. Drain fat, set aside. 

2. Cook sweet Italian sausage until no longer pink. While cooking, season with a pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drain fat, set aside. 

3.  Heat large saucepan over medium heat. Melt butter and sautee rest of onions until tender. Deglaze the pan with 1/4 cup white wine. (TAKE IN THAT LOVELY AROMA!) Add green peppers and cook an additional 3 minutes, stirring frequently. 

4. Add both jars of pasta sauce, ground beef, and sausage. Allow sauce to boil. Once it starts to boil, set to low and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing flavors to blend. I like a little flavor to my sauce, so I added salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder as it was cooking. 

5. Chop bacon up into tiny pieces, add to sauce. 

6. While sauce is simmering, prepare ricotta mixture. In a large bowl combine 8 oz. ricotta, 1 egg, and 2 cups mozzarella cheese. If you would like you can also add a 1/4 cup of Parmesan. ( I didn't have any on hand)

7. Time to start layering! 

First, you will want to add a layer of the meat/sauce mixture. Make sure bottom of slow cooker is covered with sauce. 

Next, layer your uncooked noodles. I broke them apart so they would fit better. This can be a little but tricky but make sure most of sauce is covered by the uncooked noodles.

Next, layer on the ricotta mixture. At this point I sprinkle MORE mozzarella cheese on top. I LOVE cheese.

Repeat these layers at least two more times. Depending on the height of your slow cooker.

Finish with a layer of tomato sauce and top with mozzarella. It will turn into a pretty golden brown as it cooks.

Cook on low for about 4-6 hours.

Enjoy! 






Friday, November 30, 2012

An Excerpt: Sad Truth

"She realized at that moment that they had absolutely nothing in common. Perhaps she was lying to herself. After all, it was easier to fabricate a story then live with the truth. He was her missing part and she knew she couldn't have him. Lying to herself was the only logical solution."

-Sad Truth, Prelude To a Dream

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

A Little Time To Get Away

"There's no fun in a perfect life, so take a risk. Take a chance. Go where the wind takes you. Have fun."
-Jenny C




Monday, November 26, 2012

An Excerpt: 11:59

"The clock read 11:59. Almost midnight, he thought, as he held the photograph in his shaky hands. The numbers were the colors of rubies; a pair of snake eyes burning an image in his mind. With slight hesitation, he took a shot of whiskey, perspiration streaming down his pale face. “Did she ever mention murder?” Her words, much like his past, haunted him. For a moment he sat in confusion, replaying the conversation he had with Detective O’Hara.  It didn't seem to make sense. She had posed as a seductress; a woman seeking his sexual desire. He never got the impression she was in law enforcement, but then again, why would he? 12:05"

Relationships

"Later that day I got to thinking about relationships. There are that open you up to something new and exotic, those that are old and familiar, those that bring up lots of questions, those that bring you somewhere unexpected, those that bring you far from where you started, and those that bring you back. But the most exciting, challenging and significant relationship of all is the one you have with yourself. And if you can find someone to love the you, you love, well, that's just fabulous."
Carrie Bradshaw

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Thankful


Not just today, not just tomorrow, but everyday of the year...

I am thankful for: 

My love, my heart, the person who makes me smile and makes me want to become a better woman.

My health and the ability to move, run, dance. 

My family, who continues to support me regardless of any decision I have made in my life. 

The lessons I have learned thus far. 

The opportunity to cherish little moments

Being able to wake up this morning and live yet another day. 

The roof over my head and the place that I call home. 

My courage. 

My soulmates; the friends that have never left my side.

Wine. 
(seriously)

&&&
The next few days off! 

Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!








Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Days & Risks Worth Taking

http://mo-ho-boho.tumblr.com

"There are still so many kisses and laughs and nights and days and risks worth taking and road trips and books to read and poetry to write and pictures to take. You have to believe this."
{Unknown}

Wine Over Whiskey

Once upon a time our world was on fire and I loved to watch it burn
Wild and reckless, never any limits, guess I had a lot to learn
Cause fire turns to ember, embers to ashes that blow away too soon

Now everything’s after you is like having wine after whiskey
It went from do anything for you babe to you don’t even miss me
Once you’ve tasted a love that strong you can’t go back
And you can’t settle on anything less
And that’s what gets me. It’s like having wine after whiskey


Looking back I guess it was really for the best, still you’re something that I crave
Even though I know it was right to let you go. You’re a habit hard to break
I got used to being high and nothing that I try seems good enough right now

It’s also watered down like having wine after whiskey
It went from do anything for you babe to you don’t even miss me
Once you’ve tasted a love that strong
You can’t go back and you can’t settle on anything less
And that’s what gets me. It’s like having wine after whiskey


Once you’ve tasted a love that strong you can’t go back
And you can’t settle on anything less
And that’s what gets me. It’s like having wine after whiskey

(Carrie Underwood)

Found this song on iTunes last night, needed to share. Such a pretty song. 

Monday, November 19, 2012

A Woman's Signature



"Perfume is like cocktails without the hangover, like chocolate without the calories, like an affair without tears, like a vacation from which you never have to come back."
Marian Bendeth
I believe Miss Bendeth described it perfectly.
Although many descriptive adjectives come to mind, I find it difficult to explain the alluring quality of perfume.  Immediately, I envision a beautiful Marilyn Monroe grasping a bottle of Chanel No. 5. The scent, much like her persona, is elegant, passionate, and wildly seductive.

Perfume, in an essence, is a woman's signature.It is unique to her personal taste and can change depending on her mood. Playful, flirty undertones can be camouflaged with passionate, romantic florals in a matter of moments. But how do you know which scent is best for you? Experiment!

Listed below are some of the best fragrances for women compiled by Real Simple Magazine:

For a clean, fresh scent:

Giorgio Arman Acqua di Gioa, Essenza
(Mint, lemon, pink pepper)

For the Daring

Donna Karan, Woman
(White Floral, undertones of sandalwood)

To Catch a Wandering Eye

Lancome, La Vie Est Belle
(Sweet orange blossoms)

To Dance the Night Away

Vera Wang, Love Struck Floral Rush
(Think sparkling champagne, pink passion flower)

Long After the Sun Sets

Chanel Coco Noir

For the Playful

Coach Poppy Blossom

Thursday, November 15, 2012

An Excerpt: Fleeting Gypsy


"She wanted to place blame, but she was the product of her own actions. She had made the decisions that led her away from everything she could have ever wanted. Her life was that of a fleeting gypsy, and unorganized suitcase, a splatter of her victims blood upon dirty clothing. Silently, she watched him sleep. He remained peaceful; his mind no longer fostering the “What’s next” he had continually asked her since leaving the motel. A part of her, she hated to admit, wished he didn't love her; wished he hadn't searched for her. Their hearts, however, remained as one despite the miles that had seemingly threatened their love."

An excerpt from "Fleeting Gypsy", from Prelude to a Dream

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Happy Hour Mixology: Apple Cider Sangria

Happy Wine Wednesday!

What you need:

1 bottle of Pinot Grigio
2 1/2 cups fresh apple cider
1 cup club soda
1/2 cup brandy
3 honey crisp apples. chopped
3 pears, chopped

What you need to do:

Combine all ingredients and stir.
Chill in the refrigerator for an hour or so before serving. 



Monday, November 12, 2012

40 Ways to Let Go



40 Ways to Let Go & Feel Less Pain
by: Lori Deschene, the Founder of Tiny Buddha.

1. Learn a new skill instead of dwelling on the skills you never mastered.
2. Change your perception—see the root cause as a blessing in disguise.
3. Cry it out. According to Dr. William Frey II, PH.D., biochemist at the Ramset Medical Center in Minneapolis crying away your negative feelings releases harmful chemicals that build up in your body due to stress.
4. Channel your discontent into an immediate positive action—make some calls about new job opportunities, or walk to the community center to volunteer.
5. Use meditation or yoga to bring you into the present moment (instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.)
6. Make a list of your accomplishments—even the small ones— and add to it daily.You’ll have to let go of a little discontentment to make space for this self satisfaction.
7. Visualize a box in your head labeled “Expectations.” Whenever you start dwelling on how things should be or should have been, mentally shelve the thoughts in this box.
8. Engage in a physical activity. Exercise decreases stress hormones and increases endorphins, chemicals that improve your state of mind.
9. Focus all your energy on something you can actually control, instead of dwelling on things you can’t.
10. Express your feelings through a creative outlet, like blogging or painting. Add this to your to-do list and cross it off when you’re done. This will be a visual reminder that you have actively chosen to release these feelings.
Let go of Anger and Bitterness
11. Feel it fully. If you stifle your feelings, they may leak out and affect everyone around you—not just the person who inspired your anger. Before you can let go of any emotion you have to feel it fully.
12. Give yourself a rant window. Let yourself vent for a day before confronting the person who troubled you. This may diffuse the hostility and give you time to plan a rational confrontation.
13. Remind yourself that anger hurts you more than the person who upset you, and visualize it melting away as an act of kindness to yourself.
14. If possible, express your anger to the person who offended youCommunicating how you feel may help you move on. Keep in mind that you can’t control how to offender responds; you can only control how clearly and kindly you express yourself.
15. Take responsibility. Many times when you’re angry, you focus on what someone else did that was wrong—which essentially gives away your power. When you focus on what you could have done better, you often feel empowered and less bitter.
16. Put yourself in the offender’s shoes. We all make mistakes; and odds are you could have easily slipped up just like your husband, father, or friend did. Compassion dissolves anger.
17. Metaphorically throw it away; i.e., jog with a backpack full of tennis balls. After you’ve built up a bit of rush, toss the balls one by one, labeling each as a part of your anger. (You’ll need to retrieve these—litter angers the earth!)
18. Use a stress ball, and express your anger physically and vocally when you use it.Make a scrunched up face or grunt. You may feel silly, but this allows you to actually express what you’re feeling inside.
19. Wear a rubber band on your wrist, and gently flick it when you start obsessing on angry thoughts. This trains your mind to associate that type of persistent negativity with something unpleasant.
20. Remind yourself these are your only three options: remove yourself from the situation, change it, or accept it. These acts create happiness; holding onto bitterness never does.
Let Go Of Past Relationships
21. Identify what the experience taught you to help develop a sense of closure.
22. Write everything you want to express in a letter. Even if you choose not to send it, clarifying your feelings will help you come to terms with reality as it is now.
23. Remember both the good and the bad. Even if appears this way now, the past was not perfect. Acknowledging this may minimize your sense of loss. As Laura Oliver says, “It’s easier to let go of a human than a hero.”
24. Un-romanticize the way you view love. Of course you’ll feel devastated if you believe you lost your soul mate. If you think you can find a love that amazing or better again it will be easier to move on.
25. Visualize an empowered single you—the person you were before meeting your last love. That person was pretty awesome, and now you have the chance to be him or her again.
26. Create a space that reflects your present reality. Take down his pictures; delete her emails from your saved folder.
27. Reward yourself for small acts of acceptance. Get a facial after you delete his number from your phone, or head out with friends after putting all her things in a box.
28. Hang this statement somewhere you can see it. “Loving myself means letting go.”
29. Replace your emotional thoughts with facts. When you think, “I’ll never feel loved again!” don’t resist that feeling. Instead, move on to another thought, like “I learned a new song for karaoke tonight.”
30. Use the silly voice technique. According to Russ Harris, author of The Happiness Trap, swapping the voice in your head with a cartoon voice will help take back power from the troubling thought.
Let Go Of Stress
31. Use a deep breathing technique, like ujayii, to soothe yourself and seep into the present moment.
32. Immerse yourself in a group activity. Enjoying the people in your life may help put your problems in perspective.
33. Consider this quotation by Eckhart Tolle: “Worry pretends to be necessary but serves no useful purpose.” Questioning how your stress serves you may help you let it go.
34. Metaphorically release it. Write down all your stresses and toss the paper into your fireplace.
35. Replace your thoughts. Notice when you begin thinking about something that stresses you so you can shift your thought process to something more pleasant—like your passion for your hobby.
36. Take a sauna break. Studies reveal that people who go to sauna at least twice a week for 10-30 minutes are less stressed after work than others with similar jobs who don’t.
37. Imagine your life 10 years from now. Then look 20 years into the future, and then 30. Realize that many of the things you’re worrying about don’t really matter in the grand scheme of things.
38. Organize your desk. According to Georgia Witkin, assistant director of psychiatry at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, completing a small task increases your sense of control and decreases your stress level.
39. Use it up. Make two lists: one with the root causes of your stress, and one with actions to address them. As you complete these tasks, visualize yourself utilizing and depleting your “stress supply.”
40. Laugh it out. Research shows that laughter soothes tension, improves your immune system, and even eases pain. If you can’t relax for long, start with just ten minutes watching a funny video on YouTube.
It’s a long list, but there’s much left to be said! Can you think of anything to add to this list—other areas of life where we need to practice letting go, and other techniques to start doing it right now?
Original Article, (I do not claim to own!) 

Friday, November 9, 2012

Amor Vincit Omnia: Love Conquers All

A quote for the hopeless romantic:


"After all the words and all the ink, and all the blank pages painted black with the adjectives of you, one thing is abundantly clear: nothing I write will ever be enough to sum you up."
-Tyler Knott Gregson


Thursday, November 8, 2012

5 Ways To Stay Motivated to Workout


"You'll never know your limits until you push yourself to them." 

I'm in a rut. Not a physical rut, but a mental rut. Everyday I argue with myself about going to the gym. I try to justify my workouts from the previous day as a good excuse to skip the gym all together. This inner battle goes on for about an hour before I finally agree to go. Once I am there, I am fine. I run my little ass off. 

Maybe it's the cool weather or the holiday treats lurking in my office. Maybe its the heavy sweatpants I throw on the minute I get home. Whatever it is, I am losing the mental battle to stay physically fit. 


If you too are losing motivation, here are 10 Tips To {Keep} That Body Moving:

1. Bring a friend
Sometimes all you need is a little pep talk or reminder from a friend of your fitness goals to keep you motivated. Hold each other accountable and lace up the Nike's. 

2. Update the Playlist 

Music is a very power motivator. Upbeat music can keep you moving longer and faster (especially if you are trying to crank out one more mile). 

3. Stop being so hard on yourself

I am very guilty of scrutinizing myself and my workouts. But this negative talk is actually hurting my workouts. Next time I step on the treadmill, I am going to focus on becoming a healthier person, not necessarily a thinner person. 
Even if I am running slowly, I am still lapping everyone sitting on the couch. 

4. Be realistic

Set attainable workout goals and again, don't be so hard on yourself. 

5. Do something for you, reward your progress. 

Some ideas: 
Keep a motivational money jar: Each time you lose a pound or workout, feed the money jar! Once it's filled, go treat yourself to something on your wishlist. 


Sore muscles? Treat yourself to massage. 

Happy Hour Readers: How do you stay motivated to hit the gym? 


The Best Products For Your Hair

1. Deep Conditioner

2. Split End Serum

3. Heat Protectant 

4.  Restorative Shampoo

5.  Shine Booster

6. Frizz Tamer 

7. Scalp Stimulator 

Monday, November 5, 2012

Clever Trick

She is sitting in a smoky bar, wearing nothing but a simple black dress and a string of pearls. Her poison of choice appears to be whiskey; light in color, yet rich in amber tones. Methodically, she wipes the condensation that seeps from the translucent material as if she has been waiting. She appears distraught, almost distracted, as she repeatedly glances at the door through anxious eyes.

In the distance, a faint cry of an old Eagles song weeps from the jukebox. Couples are heard laughing over $1 Budweiser long necks. The bartender oblivious to her apprehension initiates conversation. She meets his gaze, smiling as if she is interested in what he has to say. A clever trick, as so it would appear to the stranger studying her through thick clouds of stale cigarette smoke. Quietly, she declines his warm advances and moves elegantly towards the restroom. 

As she moves towards the back of the building, she takes note of the art adorning the wall. A young Dean stares back at her with a cigarette hanging seductively from his bottom lip. For a moment she stares, contemplating the young man before her. Slowly, she pushes the heavy metal door into the bathroom. The decor, like most public restrooms is horrendous, yet she can't help but trace the outlines of old phone numbers carved into the stalls with her fingertips. 

When she arrives back to the bar, she notices that the bartender has refilled her drink. She nods politely, thanking him as she pulls a few loose bills from her wallet. Again, she glances at the door. 

In her peripheral she watches as the bartender gazes intently. He appears to be in his early thirties, perhaps younger. "You are a mystery to me." Startled, she inquires, "Excuse me?" "A mystery. Did you not hear me the first time? He laughs revealing a dangerous smile. "I did, but I wanted to ignore you", she scoffs, clearly masking her sudden interest in the man before her. He laughs at her once more, "Sweetheart, we both know that you don't want to be ignored. Otherwise you wouldn't have worn that dress." 

Slightly wounded, she takes a long pull from her glass. She watches him, as he stands motionless eager for a rebuttal. Instead of appeasing him, she moves her eyes once more to the door. At that moment, he appears...




Statistics Lie


"A woman is often measured by the things she cannot control. She is measured by the way her body curves or doesn't curve, by where she is flat or straight or round. She is measured by 36-24-36 and inches and ages and numbers, by all the outside things that don't ever add up to who she is on the inside. And so if a woman is to be measured, let her be measured by the things she can control, by who she is trying to become. Because every woman knows, measurements are only statistics and statistics lie. "
-Nike Campaign
Image: Google, Marilyn Monroe

Thursday, November 1, 2012

A Look Into Dia de los Muertos

It began more than 500 years ago when the Spanish Conquistadors landed in what is now Mexico. What they encountered, however, left them curiously enticed and mysteriously intrigued. The ritual was that of the indigenous people; a ritual that had been practiced for nearly 3,000 years. To the Spaniards, it appeared as a 'mock death', something that they later unsuccessfully attempted to eradicate. The ritual? Dia de los Muertos; a Mexican Holiday reserved to honor and celebrate the passing of loved ones.

Although much of the ritual has since been merged with Catholic theology, the basic principles of the Aztec, such as the use of the skull, remains. The Aztec's and other Meso-Americans displayed these skulls as trophies; a symbol of death and rebirth. Today, people wear skull masks called "calacus" and dance in honor of their deceased relatives.

A Different Point of View:

At first, the Spaniards viewed the ritual as sacrilegious and desperately attempted to convert the ritual to Catholicism. In their eyes, the indigenous people were barbaric and pagan. In attempt to convert to Catholicism, the Spaniards moved the ritual to coincide with All Saints Days, which is when Dia de los Muertos is celebrated today. (November 1-2) Their attempts to kill the ritual however, were unsuccessful. Like the spirits of the old Aztec, the ritual refused to die.

Death: The End of Life or a Continuation?

The Spaniards perceived death as the end of life where as the natives viewed death as the continuation of life. To them, death was something to be embraced. In fact, they believed that life was that of a dream; it was in death, that they truly became awake.



Celebrations:

Day of the Dead is a widely celebrated holiday throughout Mexico and the United States. Yearly celebrations are held in Mesa, Chandler, Guadalupe, and Arizona State University.

It is believed that on October 31st at midnight, the gates of heaven open, allowing the spirits of deceased children (Angelitos) to reunite with their families and relatives. On November 2nd, the spirits of adults will join their loved ones and enjoy the festivities.

The manor in which the deceased spirit is celebrated is entirely unique and individualistic. Believe it or not, it can actually be quite expensive for indigenous families to honor their deceased loved ones. Some will even spend more than two months income preparing for Dia de los Muertos! But they do so willingly, because they believe that the happy spirits will provide protection, good luck, and wisdom. Ofrenda building is a means in which families remain close even in death.

In Rural Mexico, people visit the cemeteries where their loved ones have been laid to rest. Upon November 1st they will adorn the gravesite with marigold flowers (cempasuchil), candles, and food. It is believed that these weary spirits need lots of food, bottles of soda, hot cocoa, and water. They will often bring tequila for adults, and toys for children.

In the United States, families will build altars throughout their home decorated with flowers, food, and pictures of the deceased. The altars are typically illuminated with many candles. It is believed that the “marigold” is the traditional flower associated with the dead. Marigolds are thought to represent the rays of the sun; informing the dead that they have not lost their place in the universe.

Sugar Skulls

Clay molded sugar figures or angels, sheep and sugar skulls go back to the colonial period 18th Century. Due to the fact that Mexico was abundant in sugar production yet too poor to buy fancy imported religious decorations, they learned how to make their own sugar art for their festivals.  Sugar skulls represent a departed soul, and the deceased's name is often inscribed on the forehead of the skull. Sugar art as a whole widely reflects folk art style, big happy smiles, colorful icing, and sparkly, glittery adornments. The art of creating these skulls is very labor intensive and are typically made in small batches.

Today the Sugar Skull is an aesthetic staple in the tattooing industry as well as the celebration of Dia de los Muertos. Much of it's meaning still resides in the simple theology of celebrating life after death. The tattoo is often a tribute to the deceased, and can be perceived as a means in which the deceased lives on. The skull itself, is often adorned with bright colors which can add a sense of vibrancy to the personified.

Where and How You can Celebrate:

Dia de los Muertos is celebrated in many parts of the United States particularly where there are large Latin American communities. Festivals and parades are typically held in celebration for those who have since passed on. Take a look at your local town calendar to see if you can join the festivities!

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

10 Ways to Smile More


1. Accept the things that you cannot change. IF you can and want to change them, do it. 

2. Let go of the people that are holding you down. If you considered them, you already know who these people are. 

3. Blast your favorite upbeat song and sing at the top of your lungs, dancing as you go. 

4. Go for a run. A nice, long run. Run until you feel good; at the very least you'll be tired enough that the feelings will seem less major. 

5. Call someone you love. Just hearing their voice can make your day better. 

6. Smile at a stranger. It will make you both smile. 

7. Send an anonymous compliment. 

8. Write down everything you don't like about yourself. Rip it up. Burn it. 

9. Watch your favorite movie. 

10. Realize that you are own biggest critic. People do not see the faults in yourself that you do. So realize that they are not faults, not imperfections. They make you, you. 

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Courage

"Sometimes all you need is twenty seconds of insane courage, and I promise something great will come of it." 
-Unknown

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

If The End Is Really Near



According to the Mayan Calendar, we are doomed on December 21, 2012. 

If that's the case, I don't think I am prepared. I am the type of girl who laughs when the boyfriend talks about Zombie Apocalypse survival methods. I've yet to learn how to shoot a gun, and I wouldn't know the first thing about surviving on my own. In fact, I'm kinda kicking myself in the ass for not becoming a Dooms Day Prep Maniac. To be honest, I don't think I have enough food in my fridge to last me until next week...
Why?
I'm a Capricorn, it's in my nature to procrastinate. In fact, I'm like Tom Brady, I play my best during the last  2 minutes of the fourth quarter. With that being said, you can expect at approximately 11:58 on December 20th, that I will turn into a combination of Rambo and Lara Croft in 2.2 seconds. Sh!t will get done. And I will survive. 

All joking aside, talk of the "end" has put me in a rather reflective state. If the "end" is indeed near, I have to wonder, have I lived my life to its full potential? I mean there are so many things I've yet to do--like get married or have children; the generic to-do's in life.

More importantly, I've yet to publish my first book or solve a Rubik's Cube. I still don't understand the male psyche, quantum physics, or why the sky is blue. I haven't kissed the love of my life under the Northern Stars or had brunch overlooking the Amalfi Coast in Italy.

If the Mayans are correct, I have quite the agenda in the next upcoming months.
Realistically speaking, I know that I can't do it all. So I am taking this time to be thankful for what I HAVE done. I've packed a lot of living in 26 years and I can honestly say that I've been blessed.


In fact, 
I've been fortunate enough to: 

Fall in love
More than once. Sometime all at once.
I've experienced the nervous butterflies, the first kisses, the midnight conversations. I've loved completely,  recklessly, and daringly. I will forever wear my heart on my sleeve and believe in the happy endings.
I will never forget what my heart taught me or what their heart taught me when I was in love.

Have my heart broken
It's been torn into pieces and ripped apart at the seams.
It is scarred, imperfect, and stronger than hell.

Lose someone I love
They taught me the importance of life, how quickly it fades, and the value of a memory.

Be kissed by the sun
The act in itself, is the ultimate form of simplicity--beautiful simplicity.

Fly in a plane
In the words of Felix Baumgartner, "Sometimes you have to go up really high to understand how small you are."

Experience true friendship
The few that I hold dear to my heart? They are my soul mates. No amount of words can describe that.

Fail
Again, more than once. Sometimes all at once.
Failure has taught me the importance of perseverance.

Push my body to the limits

Watch the sun set & rise 

Pick up everything & leave
My greatest adventure to date...I am so thankful.

&& much, much more.

Happy Hour Readers: What have you been fortunate enough to experience in your life?







Wednesday, October 17, 2012

You've Got It All Wrong



"Dear Human: you've got it all wrong. You didn't come here to master unconditional love. That is where you came from and where you'll return. You came here to learn personal love. Universal love. Messy love. Sweaty love. Crazy love. Broken love. Whole love. Infused with divinity. Lived through the grace of stumbling. Demonstrated through the beauty of...messing up. Often. You didn't come here to be perfect. You already are. You came here to be gorgeously human. Flawed and fabulous. And then rise again into remembering. 

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

The Greatest Thing...

One of my favorite poems I've written...

I dream vividly in color, of dance, of passion
of love; heart wrenching, volatile love. 
The pounding of a heel, the allure of rouge lipstick; 
The seductress tantalizing her partner.

I dream in fantasy. 
Pink fireworks, cascading brilliantly 
through glittered clouds.
Perhaps of rain; camouflaging the tears of the lonely.

I dream of fire;
The jealous tendency that prevails
from dishonest tongues.
The echo of the soul; Pure unbridled madness

I dream of sweet tranquility upon the 
sound of his voice;
the melody of love
A promise of forever, until her very last breath...

I dream of the end; 
a term far too permanent
For, 
"The greatest thing you will ever learn....
is just to love.

And to be loved in return. 

Written by Kristina Caron 

Monday, October 15, 2012

Be-you-tiful: A Guide to Loving YOU!

The journey of self-love, is indeed that; a journey. Becoming comfortable in your own skin is a life-long process that involves letting go of  past insecurity and becoming satisfied with your body image, personality, skills, abilities and even your limitations.  But, before you get too discouraged, there are things that you can do RIGHT now that will lead you down the path of not only liking, but, LOVING who you see in the mirror!
 

Stop criticizing yourself!

For many, the mirror is a scary, shallow place. But why? Look at you girl! You are stunning!  Those laugh lines? The wrinkles? The scar from your childhood? These are all beautiful things because they are physical representations of who you are! Don't be ashamed of them! And while you are there, why don't you smile. Why? Because there is no one in the universe quite like you!

Be "Ok" with what you have accomplished so far.

Let's be honest, life does not always play fair. But look on the bright side: HOW you chose to react to life's little curve balls is what makes you the star player in the game. Be "ok" with small successes, the minute successes; the things that you are secretly proud of. You have a story to tell, and I can't wait to hear it.

Stay Positive.

Les Brown once said "Don't let the negativity given to you by the world disempower you-instead give to yourself that which empowers you." Empower yourself with positivity. Forget about those who wish to belittle your ambitions. You are valuable and never underestimate the power of you!

Know that you are wonderfully unique.


Dr. Suess was onto something when he uttered those infamous words: "Today you are you. That is truer than true.  There is no one alive who is youer than you." You are a divine collection of stories, secrets and beautiful anomalies. Please don't ever change!




You are MORE than you think you are.


You are a mother, a daughter, a best friend, a confidant. People have trusted you, loved you, admired you and inspired you. And you know what? People will continue to do these things because you are you!


You are bigger than that feeling of not-enough-ness.


You ARE enough even if there is a tiny voice in the back of your head doubting you. Stop trying to service the "ideal". The "ideal" is boring, and I prefer that quirky personality you got going on.


Be on your own side. 

Your a team player right? Then why don't you start playing on your team? The negative, unkind comments you tell yourself? That needs to stop. If you want people to support you and stand by your side, be confident with who you are. We dig confidence.


Ask for what you want.


That raise you have been hoping for? Put on that power suit, the killer heels, walk like you mean it and go ask your boss for what you rightfully deserve. Believe it or not, the sudden lack of subtlety, may win your boss's respect.



Open your heart.
You never know who or what will find it's way in...Love with fearless and reckless abandonment.




It's not over!

You are continually growing, changing, and creating. You can be who ever you would like to be. No one is stopping you! Be a chef today a world traveler tomorrow. Remember your kindergarten teacher asking: "What would you like to be when you grow up?" You can still be that star-struck, enthusiastic 5 year old version of yourself. Go ahead, follow that dream. Reach for that unattainable star. Life is happening whether you would like to admit it or not. READY, SET, GO!


Don't Live Life as a Spectator


"Don't live life as a spectator. Always examine life: Espouse new ideas, long for new things, constantly discover new interests, escape from boring routines. Engage life with enthusiasm; grasping life aggressively and squeezing from it every drop of satisfaction, and joy. The key to unleashing life's potential is attitude. The person that approaches life with a child-like wonder is best prepared to defy the limitations of time, is more "alive", more of a participant in life than the person who remains a spectator."

-Felix Baumgartner

Sunday, October 14, 2012

The Secret to Longer, Thicker, Lashes




Who doesn't love fun, flirty, lashes?

Here are a few tips I got from Cosmopolitan.com:

1. Position an eyelash curler as close to the roots of your lashes as possible without pinching your skin. Clamp down gently, and hold in place for a few seconds. Move the curler a little farther out, and very lightly press again. Repeat once or twice more, each time moving the curler. If your lashes are thin, brush on a coat of primer.



2. Take a creamy mascara, and hold the wand at the base of your lashes. Wiggle slightly from side to side, then brush straight up through the ends of lashes. Apply two or three coats to each eye, allowing about two minutes to dry in between.

3. After each coat of mascara, brush the top quarter of your lashes with an eyelash comb. This creates a feathery look. To avoid smudging, finish with one coat of a waterproof formula.


4.  If you want even more volume, glue a false-eyelash flare onto the outer corner of each eye, right at the lash line.

5. For an eye-popping look, hold the wand so it's vertical, and swipe it across your lower lashes, from the inner corner to the outer corner



Friday, October 12, 2012

Lost in a Moment



"I'm not saying that at some point love isn't staying up until 2 am phone calls or stealing kisses when you least expect it, or instantly falling for each other's favorite songs because it is, or at least that's what the lead up to it feels like, but real love, is so much more. It's going out at 12 am to get something to eat for your wife who can't get out of bed, it's listening to them as they explode with venerability on your living room couch talking about how they were only so young when their parents passed on. It's remembering how someone likes their coffee in the morning without asking-without ever asking, it's visiting someone in the hospital knowing the last thing you want to do is see them in that condition, its wanting to be with that person despite everything, the future, the past, and everything in between, it's the intimate things that you don't even realize involve such intimacy  but they do, in secret, like the pinky promises you two made behind your back, to love one another for always, in the time you thought you were in love, when you were actually just on your way to it."
Unknown


Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Happiness


Happiness? 

"It's almost indescribable isn't it? Things don't necessarily have to be in order in your life, but it's okay. They're just good enough that you can still smile and laugh, and maybe even love. It's knowing all the wrong things in your life but not focusing on them. It's pushing the drama behind you and pulling that smile out front. It's not a fake front and secretly being miserable inside. No. 

It's dealing with all the crap in your life first, so you can enjoy being happy, really happy afterwords. You've got to cry to be able to appreciate a smile. There's no easy path to happiness. But when you reach it, not a million words can describe the feeling."

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Happy Hour Mixology: Tequila Sunrise

thatssorue.tumblr.com
Fast, Simple, and Made with Jose Cuervo Gold

Tequila Sunrise

What you need:

2 ounces of Jose Cuervo Gold

4 ounces of Orange Juice, Simply Orange is my personal favorite

Grenadine

Orange Slice

What you need to do:

Fill glass halfway with ice

Pour in OJ and Tequila

Add a splash of Grenadine 

Garnish with an orange! 

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Tap Into Your Inner Creativity

As children we dream elusively. No goal, in the eyes of a child is unattainable. Our imaginations run wild as we travel on space shuttles to walk across the moon. Age however, tends to diminish the reality of achieving the dreams we sketched so gingerly throughout our minds. With that being said, I have to wonder: When did we stop believing? Furthermore is it ever to late? 

The answer to my last question is, No. It is never too late to be that spunky young version of yourself. 

But how do we get there? 

I believe that the first step in achieving a goal or a dream is to tap into our creative mindset. But how do we stay creative? If you are stuck, here are 33 ways:


1. Make lists
Making a list can put your mind at ease and make you feel somewhat organized. 

2. Carry a notebook everywhere
Inspiration can strike at any moment so make sure you have a notebook with you to write down thoughts, ideas, or quotes that may inspire you.

3. Try free writing
Why free write? Free writing is a very simple process that has a lot of creative potential and is the starting point for discovering lots of hidden information. When practicing free writing it is important to not cross anything out or erase anything you have written down. Forget punctuation, spelling, and grammar. The goal is to write faster and more fluently.  

Read more HERE

4. Get away from the computer
Most of us spend the majority of our day staring at a computer screen. Take a minute or several, to go to the gym or take a hike outdoors. The fresh air will be good for you. 

5. Be otherworldly
Tap into your spirituality. Meditate. Pray.


6. Quit beating yourself up

Abraham Lincoln once said "Let no feeling of discouragement prey upon you, and in the end you are sure to succeed"

7. Take breaks
According to an article from the New York Times written by Phyllis Korkki, "A growing body of evidence shows that taking regular breaks from mental tasks improves productivity and creativity - and that skipping breaks can lead to stress and exhaustion." So go ahead, take that break you deserve. 


8. Sing in the shower
Sounds silly, but singing can actually boost your immune system, increase feelings of well-being, encourage creativity, and strengthen your concentration and memory!


9. Drink coffee/tea
The caffeine content in coffee improves alertness, concentration, and energy. 


10. Know your roots
I love this quote by Maria Sharapova who is one of the best tennis players in the world: "I know my roots and cannot forget the journey I made."

11. Listen to new music
Listening to music allows you to actively pursue creativity.



12. Be open
"Flexibility requires an open mind and welcoming of new alternatives"
-Deborah Day 

13. Surround yourself with creative people
Learn from them. Work with them. Share ideas. Seek inspiration from them. 

14. Get feedback
Even if it's negative or constructive. 

15. Collaborate
At times it's better to work in numbers. 

16. Don't give up
Ever. 

17. Practice, Practice, Practice
I heard it makes perfect...

18. Allow yourself to make mistakes
This is why pencils have erasers. 
Learn from your mistakes!

19. Go somewhere new
"Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors." 
-Terry Pratchett
Travel induces creativity and may provide you with a new perspective.


20. Watch foreign films

21. Count your blessings
Those who continually count their blessings are more likely to show higher levels of positive emotions such as vitality and optimism and are more likely to make progress towards important and personal goals. 

22. Gets lots of rest
& Take naps. 

23. Take risks
"All men dream: but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake up in the day to find it was vanity, but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dreams with open eyes to make it possible."
-T.E. Lawrence 

24. Break the rules
I think Neil Gaiman stated it perfectly: "Rules and responsibilities: these are the ties that bind us. We do what we do, because of who we are. If we did otherwise, we would not be ourselves."

25. Do more of what makes you happy
Life is far too short to do otherwise. 

26. Don't force it
Give it time, give it space. 

27. Read a page of the dictionary
Although it kinda sounds a little boring. Always fill your mind with new ideas or new concepts. Vow to learn something new everyday.


28. Create a framework

29. Stop trying to be someone else's perfect
PLEASE JUST STOP! Be you! 

30. Got an idea? Write it down
This is why I keep post-its in my purse. 

31. Clean your work space

32. HAVE FUN!

33. Finish something  
Make a goal and stick to it. 
"You playing small does not serve the world"
-Marianne Williamson

{All images courtesy of Pinterest Boards: Beauty-ful & Quotes and can be traced back to original posting.}  
Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...