Before You

 Before you...

It started with a sweet, candy-coated crush,

a tender first kiss beneath the falling snow.

A nervous anticipation, a precarious truth or dare.

A first dance, and an "our" first song,

Before you...

 It started with a first date, a first car ride home.

a stolen moment of lost innocence.

A broken heart, a betrayal

An end of him and I. 

Before you...

 It started with an offer to go to dinner with a new crush,

a possibility rendered simply endless.

A circumstance beyond control.

A separation both amicable; respectable.

Before you...

It started with a overwhelming feeling of lust,

A loss of sanity; a feeling beyond logical reasoning. 

A severely broken heart,

An opportunity to grow. 

Before you...

It started with a journey of 1300 miles,

A sense of hope, a friendship that changed overnight.

An unexpected goodbye.

A new found happiness. 

Before you...

There was a plan, a promise set in stone. 

{Pinterest}

Scars

"There is something beautiful about all scars, what ever nature.

A scar means that the hurt is over, the wound is closed, and healed, done with."

-Unknown

{pinterest/fashion}

Dawn

A few hours later, Anna and Damien found themselves searching for a motel in the middle of desolate America. His insatiable need for water however, consumed him, leaving him somewhat lethargic. Anna, on the other hand, pressed on, pistol strapped around her muscular thigh.

Damien assumed that dawn was not far behind them. He could feel the warming temperature of the sun, as it slowly peeked behind the clouds. Just a day before, he was alone in his apartment, lost in a book, scotch in hand, silently weeping for what he had become. Today, he was a few strides behind Anna, watching the gentle sway of her feminine hips. Although she was someone he no longer knew, his heart ached with adoring palpitation. Much of what he believed was no longer relevant as he lit the match to his vehicle, and followed his long-lost love throughout the desert.

Upon quick glance of his watch, he spoke. "Anna if we do not find shelter soon, there's a chance that they will find us." Abruptly, she stopped, collapsing to the sand. "Anna?" he hurried, "Are you ok?" As he took her beautiful face into his hands, he saw that she was crying. "Anna, Sweetheart, what is it?" he asked tenderly. "I didn't want to get you involved Damien. This is not how things were supposed to happen. I have put you in more danger than you will ever know." she managed through uncontrollable sobs. "I love you Damien. That is why I left." But before she could continue speaking, Damien wrapped her into his tired arms. "Stop, Anna. I love you. I always have and always will..."

For a moment neither of them spoke as they held each other, relinquishing the slight glimmer of the rising sun. "Non saprranno mai" he muttered as he brought her closer to his chest. It was then a sly smile broke from her tear-laden face, "They will never know", she whispered in response.

{pinterest}

NATIONAL BEER DRINKING DAY?!

In case you didn't already know today is:

National Drink Beer Day.

Yes, they have a day assigned solely for consuming that lovely concoction of hops and barley.

It would be wrong not to celebrate...

HappyHour Readers: What is your favorite brew && will you be partaking in said holiday?

Pinterest for Iphone

Affirmation

"The tattoo is an affirmation; that this body is yours to have and to enjoy while you're here. Nobody else can control what you do with it."
{Don Ed Hardy}

How To: Get Ahead

They have climbed their way to the top and they want to share their BEST advice for maintaining that goal and reaching for those stars. 

 

"If you do things well, do them BETTER. Be daring. Be first. Be different. Be just."

-Anita Roddick, founder of The Body Shop

"When you're doing the work you are meant to do, it feels right and everyday is a bonus, regardless if you get paid or not."

-The one and only: Oprah Winfrey, Media MOGUL.

"You have to be open-minded when those early opportunities present themselves; take advantage of them whether you are going to make a lot of money or not."

-Racheal Ray, Chef, Cookbook Author, TV Personality

"Some women choose to follow men, and some women choose to follow their dreams. If you're wondering which way to go-remember that your career will never wake up in the morning and tell you that it doesn't love you anymore."

-Lady Gaga, Entertainer

"Some failure in life is inevitable-it is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all-in which case you fail by default."

-JK Rowling, Author

The path to success...found on pinterst

Happy Hour Mixology: Spiced Apple Mojito

Who says that this classic "summer" cocktail can't have a "fall" make-over?

What you need:

3 Slices of Apple

1/16th teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

1 1/2 oz. light rum

1 1/2 oz. of simple syrup*

*Simple Syrup is made with 2 parts lime juice, 1 part sugar)

Splash of Seltzer

What you need to do: 

Add apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and mint to the bottom of a shaker and muddle. 

Add rum, lime simple syrup, ice and s h a k e

Stain into glass, top with seltzer && Garnish with a thin slice of apple! 

&& of course Enjoy the taste of fall! 

{Pinterest.com}

Kiss & Tell?

Like most writers, I’d like to tell you that the idea for this book, was a moment of clarity, where the world finally made sense. Since a young girl I believed writers had miraculous minds, where ideas poured like cascading water into a beautiful river of prose. Mine, however, came at exactly 6:16pm May 21, 2010 in the comfort of my shower. I, too, would like to digress at this point that many of my finer thoughts and euphoniums take place in my shower. Maybe it’s because I’m naked. Free of clothing, free of restriction, washing away the sins of the day. Who knows.

Anyways, my idea. I’d  like to say it was glamorous, but quite frankly, it came as I took a long pull of a $1.69 plastic bottle of Mikes Hard Lemonade, I had purchased ten minutes before at a local drug store. What? Yes, I am 24 and still drinking in the shower. Some may shake their heads as they read this, but I know, there are the select few of you out there who are mentally giving me a high five. And as much as I hate to admit this, I did in fact immaturely laugh at the number 69. What? You know you like it too. Fine, I will get to the point.

My idea stemmed from a conversation I had earlier that day, on my way to job number two. And as I reflected on one particular comment I had sent via text to my 30 year-old, one hell of a smoking’ hot nurse best friend, I realized that without kissing and telling there would be no fun in dating. I’m sure you are wondering what I said to her. Huh?

Well, here it is. Wait, but before I do, I have to let you know one thing. He will remain nameless, in respect to his privacy. I would not want to ruin his day or anything like that. But here it goes. “I don’t care. I mean, he idolizes Brett Michaels. Cute. But not the father of my children.” And with that I realized that women probably all over the world have similar stories of hook-ups, break-ups, hot one-night stands, crazy sex escapades JUST DYING to get out.  So here, it is ladies, a book of kissing and telling, with no remorse. Giving you the dirty, in the most awkward of situations. The heat, in the most passionate of moments. And of course falling in love even after the passion fades between the sheets.

As for, Mr. I-Will-Remain- Nameless, I can’t help but deny the surge of excitement I get when I hear “Every Rose Has It’s Thorn”. Oh. Brett Michaels...

P.S., as I write this last sentence I have moved on to a much classier glass of Pinot Gringo and my legs are shaved in preparation for a night of “research.”

How to: Barely There Makeup

Hello Gorgeous!

Dramatic is not always the way to go...sometimes that "Barely There" makeup leaves a lasting impression, throughout that {9-5} that seems to be taking up most of your time.

 Looking to improve your look? Here's How!

1. Prep your face:

Up late last night? That's ok! Take your favorite concealer and gently pat around those dark circles and cover any imperfections you may or may not have. 

Followup

with your favorite pressed powder for a smooth, even canvas.

2. Groom and Define:

I ALWAYS forget about my brows but believe it or not they need attention too!

Take an eyebrow pencil and fill in brow using light strokes in the direction of hair and blend. 

HappyHour Tip: Add shape and definition by sweeping brush across your natural arc for a clean finish.

3.  Brighten Those Eyes!

Sweep a brightening eye shadow across your lids. I would recommend a shadow that has a shimmery or pearl finish! I really like the champagne or bronze palettes.

HappyHour Tip: You can also line your eyes with brown liner for extra definition.

4. Finishing Touches:

MASCARA, MASCARA, MASCARA!

Apply two coats for flirty, come-hither, eyes!

&& of course don't forget your lips! Apply a nude gloss or lipstick! 

{photo retrieved: pinterest/fashion}

PIL: The Original True Religion Eau de Parfum

{in case you didn't know the "PIL" in the title stands for 'Products I Love"}

 Yet another feature I am adding to my blog.

For the free-spirited...

or the BohemianSoul 

How can you not love that bottle?

Embrace your feminine side with this delicate, floral arrangement adorned with crisp fruity notes and a musk that adds a flawless dose of complexity.

You can find this fragrance here: True Religion Brand Jeans

MSRP: $59.00 for 1.7 oz && $79.00 for 3.4 ounces. 

 HappyHour Tip: Look for this fragrance and all your other fav fragrances at Marshalls or TJMaxx. I found mine for $24.99!

Bare

There comes a point when the internalization of all my worrying erupts into a static, volatile flow of absurdity. I can no longer hold it in as I fake a smile, or politely whisper: "How are you" to a passing stranger. We are taught to keep calm and just "deal with it" but what if "just dealing with it" leaves you awake at night; restless? When is it ok, to simply let loose with an angry or frustrated tongue? I am finding that expectation can be utterly overwhelming and I long to escape...for a moment...or two...

When it comes down to it? 

I would love to strip myself bare of any negative, self-defeating, entity I happen to encounter...  

{pinterest}

10 Ways to Cope With Stress

1. Write things down- don't rely on memory.

We tend to forget things the moment we get started on a new task. I usually keep a journal around in my purse or use the note section on my Iphone to jot down important things I need to remember.

2. Repair things that don't work properly.

You know that aggravated feeling you get when you continually use something that doesn't work...well actually take the time to fix it!

3. Set priorities in your life.

You know what is important and what is not. 

4. Schedule Play Time into every day. 

Yes, I said everyday. We need time to not be those responsible adults. Throw a snowball. Jump in puddles. Be that awesome 10 year old version of yourself.

5. Look up at the stars.

Even if only for a minute. Sometimes nature brings us back to that serene place we need to be.
 

6. Remember you always have options.

Or second opinions. You CAN choose the road less traveled by.


7. Believe in you. 

Simply that. Believe. Believe. Believe.


8. Avoid Negative People.


They only bring you down.


9. Strive for excellence. Not perfection. 

This is something that I have to remind myself of everyday. You will never be perfect.


10. Get Enough Sleep. 

Give that pillow some action.

Source for photo: pinterest.com

Disperse

His whispers; silent. His voice; melodic as the unknown rumbles curiously throughout his humble chest. His heart unwillingly reveals the predominant echo of life. How he wonders? How does she manage to surpass these incomprehensible, imaginary fantasies he refuses to disperse...

His pain digs upon salted wounds; a bottle of whiskey...an apology long forgotten.

Sadly, he fails to open tear laden eyes as she waits; her reflection lingering on a rearview mirror.

{Saturday 1:58 am} 

{photoretrieved from pinterest}

Fit Friday: 5 Ways To Tone

that tummy while running... 

Adapted by: Fay Hokulani

1. Sprint: do short burst of running. Focus on speed. The speed will zap calories.

2. Run UPhill: The elevation will bring your knees higher, which will make your stomach work MUCH harder.

3. Focus on pulling your tummy in while you run-just don't forget to b r e a t h e

4. Try warming up with a few sets of knee-highs

5. Swing those arms- A full arm swing will activate your side muscles more, giving you a slimmer waist. 

photo: pinterest/run

 

How To: GET THE NEW FACEBOOK!

Don't like the new changes on Facebook?

Do they leave you feeling, let's just say... frustrated?

Well, I ACTUALLY dig the new Timeline Facebook and I wanted it before everyone else, and believe it or not, it's really friggen easy. Even non-computer savvy people can do it...

I mean I did, 

and I wear high-heels so I don't have to tie my shoes...

Seriously, I feel very accomplished!

I LOVE THE NEW LAYOUT!!! If you want it too...FOLLOW THIS LINK! 

Get the New Facebook Timeline 

*Note...this new profile change will only be visible to other Developers and is OFFICIALLY visible to others September 30, 2011.*

Photoretrieved from google.com

Fab Finds: Kardashian Kollection

{Kourtney.Klohe.Kim}

PhotoRetrieved from: Elle.com

On August 25, 2011 Kim, Kourt, and Khole launched their new line in Sears Stores nationwide called: Kardashian Kollection && I can't wait to check it out! I must admit I love the sexy-vibe that Kim exudes as she waltzes that infamous derriere down the red carpet...

Their Kollection includes the classics:

Skirts

Dresses

Blazers

&& Tanks

With a promised benefit:

THEY FIT CURVY GIRLS!

The threads are made in an hour-glass shape that not only stretches, but holds.

This allows those self-conscious gals to feel a little more confident. 

Karadashion Kollection also has:

Lingerie

Shoes  

&& Bags!

HappyHour Readers: Will you be checking out Kardashian Kollection?

Homemade: Pumpkin Spice Lattes

I absolutely LOVE Pumpkin Spice Lattes from Starbucks but I am not so in love with the $4.95 price tag that came with my delicious autumn concoction. 

Solution? 

 Learn how to make it at home! 

&& To be completely honest, I cannot wait for Saturday and Sunday Morning to make these!

What you need to do:

Yes you, in that half-groggy just rolled out of bed state, start by:

Brewing a pot of your favorite. 

You want to stick to a neutral flavor, maybe a nice Breakfast Blend or a Colombian Blend. 

Let's not get crazy with the flavors just yet, although...a French Vanilla blend may be tasty

{I will experiment later && let you know}

Next, let's make the Pumpkin Milk 

What you need:

1 cup of milk 

1/4 heaping cup of pumpkin puree*

(*If you are anything like me, I was totally unsure of where to get pumpkin puree. Thanks to Google I was informed that you can purchase it in the grocery store in the baking aisle. It is also found in Organic/Specialty food stores. Winning.)

2 tsp. Pumpkin Spice Blend*

(Again, look for this spice in the spice section or baking section in your local grocery store)

1 tsp. Cinnamon

1tsp. Vanilla Extract

&& A sweetener of  your choice. 

NOW... 

Combine all ingredients together in a small bowl and whisk well! 

 Warm the finished Pumpkin Milk mixture in the microwave for 45 sec. 

Finally, 

Pour 1 cup of the brewed coffee into your favorite mug and pour half the pumpkin mixture over the coffee. Top with whip cream and a pinch of nutmeg and/or cinnamon and ENJOY!

*if you did not use all of the pumpkin milk it is perfectly safe to put the rest in the fridge and use later!*

Special thanks to: loveveggiesandyoga.com for recipe!

Save the TA TA's

She was a mother of two and a beautiful wife. She was a best friend, a confidant, and someone my mother shared her deepest, darkest secrets with. She was the kind of woman other women aspired to be. Her life however, was cut short; a moment too soon. Although her battle with breast cancer proved to be a deadly one, she will forever remain a staple of courage in my mother's eyes. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I would like to recognize her strength and perseverance she exhibited as she tried to overcome this debilitating illness.

A few years ago, I walked 60 miles in her honor. 

I am proud to admit that the experience changed my life. Not only did I push my body to the limit, I was amongst those who were pushing their body to the limit. I walked arm in arm with those who survived and those who were still undergoing chemo. 

It was the most EMOTIONAL thing I had ever experienced and certainly the most rewarding. 

I encourage you to recognize October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and join the fight to find a cure. 

Race.

Walk.

Donate.

Lend a helping hand. 

Be the shoulder to cry on. 

Love.

Hope.

&& Encourage

Want more information?

Take a look at Susan G. Komen's Website: For The Cure

Want to show your support?

Take a look at The Pink Ribbon Store: Here

Or:

Here

{Photo retrieved from google}

 

Lace

Although feather earrings are SUPERcute...

I am looking forward to this LACE-Y trend:

Photo retrieved from Pinterest

How To: Get Hollywood Waves

Or beachy waves...or polished waves...or date-night waves.

Photo retrieved from weheartit

The How To:

First shampoo and condition locks. I am really LOVIN' Herbal Essence: Totally Twisted Curls & Waves. Not only is it affordable, it smells delightful!

Once you get outta the showah: 

1. Apply mouse to towel-dried locks and blow dry. 

InStyle tip: When drying your hair, flip your head over and use a large soft brush to comb from the nape of your neck up towards the ends. 

Anne Hathaway's stylist Kevin Mancuso, says "This will create natural volume at the roots."

2. Once hair is 80% dry,

Flip head back over and continue drying hair with a medium round brush.

3. Ahh, finally dry

Create a side-part and section hair into one inch sections. Once hair is separated, begin shaping hair into smooth ringlets with a medium barrel curling iron. 

4. Final Touches

Spritz with a lightweight hairspray to keep in place. Gently run a smooth brush over waves to create a less-stiff look.

For more tips and even better hairstyles:

Check out these: Style Tips

Junk Gypsy

moonshine && masonjars

fireflies && pinkguitars

grit.glamour

JuNkGyPsy 

photo retrieved from pinterest

One of my favorite things to do is surf the web for inspiration

&& JunkGypsy totally rocked my world especially in the creative department.

These lovely ladies were actually responsible for decorating Miranda Lambert & Blake Shelton's Wedding with junk yard finds and a touch of true country grit. The end result? Utterly Fabulous.

See for yourself : Miranda Lambert & Blake Shelton's I Do

LOVE WHAT YOU SEE?

Take a look at their website and their totally badass merchandise

Junk Gypsy 

How to: Tie A Scarf

Photo Retrieved from TipJunkie

I love the fall and can't wait to wear my scarves! For more info and how to make your own scarves follow the link below.

TipJunkie

Lessons Behind The Bar: Stocking Up!

Thinking about entertaining for the upcoming holidays? If so, you might want to start  stocking up that BAH! 

&&

Here's how:

You will need the following Liquors:

{they will make up the base of the majority of your cocktails}

Bourbon, Brandy, Canadian Whiskey, Dry Gin, Rum, Scotch Whiskey, Tequila, and Vodka

&& Liqueurs:

{adds that extra bit of YUM to your cocktails}

Amaretto, Cointreau, Creme de Cacao, Creme de Menthe, Kahlua, and Triple Sec

And Finally your Mixers:

Bloody Mary Mix, Club Soda, Cola, Cranberry Juice, Pineapple Juice, Ginger Ale, Lemon-Lime Soda, Lime Juice, Orange Juice, Tonic Water, Seltzer Water, Light Cream, Red Bull, Grapefruit Juice

Remember that you don't have to get all at once. It can get quite Expen$ive.

Try picking up a bottle here and there...

&& Remember to drink responsibly and always have a DD! 

{Source: pinterest/bar}

Fit Friday: Metabolism Boosting Foods

Eat &&  Boost that Metabolism!

Grapefruit

Green Tea

Yogurt 

Almonds

Coffee 

Turkey

Apples

Spinach

Beans

Jalapenos

Broccoli

Oatmeal

Soymilk

Cinnamon

Curry

Image found on flickr

Daily Dose of Advice

I am sure we all can agree that we are rather "stressful" human beings. But here are 10 easy tips to uncomplicate your life.

1. Get up 30 minutes earlier than usual && go to bed 30 minutes earlier than usual.

2. Stick to your budget. It will eliminate that extra stress of not having enough money if any extra bill should arise.

3. Before getting angry-ask yourself if it TRULY matters. 

4. Attached? Kiss and make up. Life is too short to go to bed angry. 

5. Make a weekly menu && only buy the items that you need to make these meals. (So not only are you budgeting you are also alleviating that stress of "What's for dinner?")

6. Say "I Love You" often. It makes people smile.

7. Tell the truth.

8. Be yourself.

9. Let go of that RIDICULOUS grudge.

10. Don't look for reasons to be angry or sad-look for reasons to be happy.

{Photo retrieved from pinterest}

Self Expression

"Fashion is a statement. Not a style. Fashion does not have to be worn casually or off the runway. Fashion is fit for all sizes & for all people of all ages. Fashion is an art of self expression. Not an excuse to be pretty, popular, or charismatic."

{unknown}

{pinterest}

20 Confidence Boosting Tips

Want to be a more-confident you? Read on!

Here are 20 tips that will lead you down the right path:

Adapted from Glamour Magazine's 22 Confidence Boosting Tips found on:

Glamour 

1. SMILE:

Enough said.

2. Accept the compliments: 

They are designed to make you feel better, eat it up girl, eat it up!

3. Forget Stereotypes:

STOP, I REPEAT, STOP trying to service the IDEAL.

4. Stop doubting yourself:

The decisions you make? You made them for a reason! Sit back, relax, and be confident that you made the right decision.

5. Take care of your skin:

Wear SPF...Moisturize...Stay hydrated. Not only will you have that healthy glow going on, your skin will thank you as you age. 

6. Learn something new:

A new language. A new Italian dish. How to knit.

7. Meditate

The peace and quiet is something you desperately need at times...

8. Stop Apologizing

9. Smell good! 

Go ahead and buy that new fragrance you have been lusting over! Some fragrances instantly make you feel sexy!

10. Sleep

Your skin and (you) need the rest

11. STEP AWAY FROM THE MIRROR...

I wasn't kidding...WALK AWAY. You are prone to start focusing on your "flaws"....which will not make you feel better.

12. Stand Tall

Even if you are feeling down, the moment you straighten that back out as you walk, you instantly appear more confident; more assured.

13. Reward yourself. A lot.

Go ahead buy the new pair of shoes. Enjoy that extra glass of wine. You work hard and you deserve it. 

14. Give yourself some color:

Your body actually needs Vitamin D, so go ahead and sit by the pool just make sure you protect yourself with SPF.

15. Eat Healthier:

Vegetables will not kill you...

16. Recover from past mistakes and failures:

STOP DWELLING. 

17. Work-out

I am sure we can all agree that working out has it's benefits...

18. Change your hair color:

Sometimes all it takes is a bottle of hair dye to help make you feel like a new woman.

 19. Stop freaking out:

Over spilled milk. The prior engagement you decided to ditch. I won't tell.

20. Assume People Like You:

Because they do.

{Pinterest}