Black Balloons

The party is over; diamonds shatter upon the floor where we dance unwarily contemplating each others next move. Although red wine lingers within the cracks of your lips, you're intoxicated by the lights spinning on the ceiling. A black balloon with a red piece of string floats among the fog; dreary and thick of stale cigarette smoke. You're smiling, stumbling on the words that threaten to fall from the corners of your mouth. Amazingly, they fail to canvas the space between us as you drop the bottle held loosely in your hand. I'm nervous, deciphering the language of your movement. Like a movie, black and white, you move forward anticipating the reaction of envious spectators. Your lips find mine; surprisingly cool, longing for my response. Much like the black balloon, I drift away in your kiss--

Creative Writing Piece | By: Kristina Caron

Letting Go of Negativity

Lately, I have been surrounded by it. It's an all-encompassing aura that infects an entire room within minutes. I myself, have tried to stay immune to it. For others however, negativity has become an accessory they wear day in and day out. 

Life, yes, is hard. There will always be obstacles, things that we cannot handle. But the more I think about negativity, the more I realize how paralyzing it can really be. Why waste precious hours dwelling on it? Is complaining really going to change the situation? Are there ways we can be more positive each day? 

I recently had a conversation with one of my closest friends and I came to this conclusion: We are not granted tomorrow. Each hour we spend dwelling on what weighs us down is another wasted hour; another wasted opportunity. 

So how do you "snap outta it?" How do you "get happy" and live the life you know you deserve? 

Image Credit

1. Believe that everything will turn out just fine in the end, because it usually does

Take a deep breath. 

The storm, darling, will always pass. 

2. Learn the basics of investing, so that you’re able to grow your wealth

Money creates A LOT of stress. But if you can figure out ways to invest your hard-earned money or save it, you will have less stress. Save, save, save. You DON'T need that extra pair of shoes. You want them. 

3. Say exactly what you mean with kindness

Take a second before you speak. Think about the words and how they could come across to the listener. DON'T text. So many things you are trying to say cannot be accurately portrayed within the context of 140 characters or less. Actually engage in conversation. Turn your phone off when you are sharing a cup of coffee with someone. 

4. Believe in something bigger than yourself

This can be hard. But believe with everything you have in you. 

5. Be a peacemaker, not a warmonger
Don't stir the drama, offer to mediate. 

6. Before making any major decision, sleep on it
Never make big decisions on temporary emotions. 

7. Pray, meditate or reflect every day
Enough said.

8. If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all
This goes back to middle school ladies and gents, it is better to keep your mouth shut.

9. Do unto others as you’d have them do unto you

10. Find a reason to laugh every day
It truly is the best medicine. 

Spring Cleaning for the Mind: 10 Ways to Make Your Day Better

1. Make someone else smile. – Ordinary people worry today and postpone their happiness for tomorrow. Intelligent people are happy today and postpone their worries for tomorrow. Wise people only wish happiness for all, today and tomorrow. If you wish to have a lifetime of happiness, dedicate time every day to helping others smile with complete sincerity and enthusiasm. 

2. Be imperfect. – Something that is really difficult, but totally worth it, is giving up on being perfect and beginning the journey of becoming your true self. The most beautiful part of this journey is simply returning to the peaceful feeling of being. This peace is the result of retraining your mind to process life as it is, rather than as you think it should be. 

3. Be enthusiastic about what you’re doing. – You’re not given a good life or a bad life. You’re given life, and it’s up to you to make it good or bad. So wake up and get motivated; not everybody made it to today. Don’t take your time for granted. Don’t waste time thinking back to what you could have done differently yesterday. Keep your eyes on the road ahead and do it differently today. Wherever the road takes you, bring your passion. Whatever you do along the way, do it with all your heart. 

4. Make the best of what happens. – More important than what happens to you, is what you make of what happens to you. The more thankful you are, the more beautiful this world appears. You must uncover the good in the bad, the happy in your sad, the gain in your pain, and what makes you 

grateful not hateful. 

5. Forgive your past self. – Sometimes, good people like you make bad choices. It doesn't mean you’re bad; it means you’re human. So get bored with your past; it’s over. Forgive yourself for what you think you did or didn't do, and focus on what you will do starting now. 

6. Spend some time simply being and breathing. – The only way to live happily ever after is one day at a time. Just be, breathe, and think not about what you’re missing, but what you've been given. Happiness is something that comes into our lives gradually through the doors we don’t even 

remember leaving open. 

7. Learn something new. – It’s important to remember that you cannot become who you are capable of being by remaining exactly where you are. If you are not willing to learn and grow, no one can help you. But if you are determined to learn and grow, no one can stop you. In the end, there are no permanent jobs on this planet; we are all interning here. Learn from everyone, evolve, remain humble, and don’t forget to have a good time. 

8. Look in the mirror, and tell yourself what you love about yourself. – What we see in the mirror is what we see in the world. Our disappointment in others perfectly reflects our disappointment in ourselves. Our acceptance of others perfectly reflects our acceptance of ourselves. Our ability to see potential in others perfectly reflects our ability to see potential in ourselves. Our patience with others perfectly reflects our patience with ourselves. 

9. Focus on the qualities you like about those around you. – Whenever we focus on a person’s wonderful qualities, we have a wonderful relationship with them. Whenever we focus on a person’s not so wonderful qualities, we have a not so wonderful relationship with them. What we focus on grows in 

our minds and hearts. 

10. Say 'YES' to a spontaneous opportunity. – Everything in life can’t be planned. Some of the greatest opportunities will knock on your door when you least expect them to. Be flexible, be spontaneous, and 

just say 'yes.' 

 {Source: Marc and Angel}

New Year, New You: 21 Ways to Shift Your Self Perception

"Don't compromise yourself. You're all you've got." Janis Joplin

It's hardly simple to change your thoughts and accept yourself for everything you are without criticism, but I encourage you to try. 

Read on for steps to discover your worth and enfold yourself in affection and appreciation.

{Article: TinyBuddha.com, Contributor, Tess Marshall}

1. Begin your day with love (not technology). Remind yourself of your worthiness before getting out of bed. Breathe in love and breathe out love. Enfold yourself in light. Saturate your being in love.

2. Take time to mediate and journal. Spend time focusing inward daily. Begin with 5 minutes of meditation and 5 minutes of journaling each morning. Gradually increase this time.

3. Talk yourself happy. Use affirmations to train your mind to become more positive. Put a wrist band on your right wrist. When you’re participating in self-abuse of any form, move the band to your left wrist.

4. Get emotionally honest. Let of go of numbing your feelings.Shopping, eating, and drinking are examples of avoiding discomfort, sadness, and pain. Mindfully breathe your way through your feelings and emotions.

5. Expand your interests. Try something new. Learn a language. Go places you’ve never been. Do things you haven’t done before. You have a right to an awesome life.

6. Enjoy life enhancing activities. Find exercise you like. Discover healthy foods that are good for you. Turn off technology for a day and spend time doing things that make you feel alive.

7. Become willing to surrender. Breathe, relax, and let go. You can never see the whole picture. You don’t know what anything is for. Stop fighting against yourself by thinking and desiring people and events in your life should be different. Your plan may be different from your soul’s intentions.

8. Work on personal and spiritual development. Be willing to surrender and grow. Life is a journey. We are here to learn and love on a deeper level. Take penguin steps and life becomes difficult. One step at a time is enough to proceed forward.

9. Own your potential. Love yourself enough to believe in the limitless opportunities available to you. Take action and create a beautiful life for yourself.

10. Be patient with yourself. Let go of urgency and fear. Relax and transform striving into thriving. Trust in yourself, do good work, and the Universe will reward you.

11. Live in appreciation. Train your mind to be grateful. Appreciate your talents, beauty, and brilliance. Love your imperfectly perfect self.

12. Be guided by your intuition. All answers come from within. Look for signs and pay attention to your gut feelings. You’ll hear two inner voices when you need to make a decision. The quiet voice is your higher self; the loud voice is your ego. Always go with the quieter voice.

13. Do what honors and respects you. Don’t participate in activities that bring you down. Don’t allow toxic people in your life. Love everyone, but be discerning on who you allow into your life.

14. Accept uncertainty. Suffering comes from living in the pain of the past or the fear of the future. Put your attention on the present moment and be at peace.

15. Forgive yourself. Learn from your mistakes and go forward. Use this affirmation, “I forgive myself for judging myself for __________ (fill in the blank i.e.: for getting sick, for acting out, for not doing your best.)

16. Discover the power of fun. Self-love requires time to relax, play, and create face-to-face interaction with others. Our fast-paced world creates a goal setting, competitive craziness that doesn’t leave room for play. Dr. Stuart Brow says, “The opposite of play isn’t work, it is depression.”

17. Be real. Speak up and speak out. Allow yourself to be seen, known, and heard. Get comfortable with intimacy (in-to-me-see).

18. Focus on the positive. Go to your heart and dwell on and praise yourself for what you get right in all areas.

19. Become aware of self neglect and rejection. Become conscious of your choices. Ask yourself several times throughout the day, “Does this choice honor me?”

20. Imagine what your life would look like if you believed in your worth. Dedicate your life to loving you. Make it your main event.

21. Seek professional help. Self-rejection and neglect is painful. You deserve to be happy. You have a right to be accepted and loved. If necessary, seek help from a support group, counselor, or coach. It’s the best investment you can make.

This article was found at one of my favorite websites: Tiny Buddha

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 you. Communicating 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!) 

A Short List of Things You Cannot Buy

1. Health

2. True Love

3. Happiness

4. Meaningful Friendships

5. Contentment 

6. Fulfillment

7. Time

Courage

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

-Unknown

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?

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."

{Quote Found Here}

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.}  

How To Be A Better (happier & healthier) Human Being

"Never touch anything with half of your heart, be present, endlessly loving and compassionate towards others.

Confront any challenging situation first with a deep breath.

Wander.

Remember that your own happiness and comfort comes about all things.

Before reacting-understand.

Eat breakfast every morning.

Find the place in the flowers.

Remember what is important to you.

Treat your body kindly.

Be honest.

Get to know yourself.

Take things at your own pace.

Don't feel embarrassed to feel, laugh, cry, sing or love. 

Remember that what's right for someone else may not be what is right for you (and that's okay.)

Never be afraid or ashamed to ask for help.

Do what you love.

Remember that you always have a choice .

Find joy in what life really is--living."

--FIND IT HERE

Laws of Attraction

http://myecowedding.blogspot.com/

Healthy Lifestyle: 8 Juicing Recipes

According to ABC News Juicing has some serious health benefits! When you juice fruits and vegetables you are actually getting a concentration of minerals, vitamins and enzymes that are vital for a healthier you! 

Why purchase a Juicer?
A juicer can help you maintain a healthier lifestyle. Many of the juices that you can purchase at the grocery store are loaded with sugar, high fructose corn syrup and other preservatives; ingredients that have been attributed to weight gain. Buy using a juicer, you not only get the essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs but you eliminate the excess sugar found in most juices.

Juicers are versatile. You can juice anything from fruit to vegetables to leafy greens.

Juicing Recipes

The best part of having a juicer is the ability to experiment with different fruits and vegetables! But if you are stuck on some ideas, I have listed 8 recipes that are easy, healthy, and sure to keep you energized  throughout the day. If you are looking for added nutrition feel free to add greens such as kale and spinach to any of the recipes listed below.

Good Morning OJ

Re-energize with a breakfast classic, orange juice.

4 medium sized oranges, peeled and sectioned

Berry Medley:

A sweet medley of delicious berries

2 cups strawberries

2 cups blueberries

1 ½ cup raspberries

Tangy Green Apple & Grape

These bold flavors blend together wonderfully. A hint of lemon gives it a zesty kick

3 Granny Smith Apples, cored and sliced

1 cup seedless green grapes

1 thin wedge of lemon, peeled

Berry Pineapple

A zesty citrus flavor and a sweet berry taste

1 orange, peeled and sectioned

1 cup fresh pineapple, cubed, rind removed

1 cup strawberries

Apple Kiwi

The perfect pick-me-up after a long day!

3 kiwis, peeled

2 apples, cored and sliced

Green, Lean & Mean

Post work-out fuel!

6 large kale leaves

1 celery stalk

1 large carrot

1 small sweet potato

2 green apples, cored and sliced

½ lemon, outer peels removed

½ cucumber, peeled

½ cup blueberries

Hawaiian Delight

Delight in the ambiance of the islands with this sweet concoction!

2 large grapefruits, peeled and sectioned

2 cups pineapple, rind removed

6 medium oranges, peeled and sectioned

Orange Carrot

Nutrition at its finest

8 large fresh carrots

2 large fresh oranges, peeled and sectioned 

Just Relax

We spend a majority of our lives worrying about things that we truly do not need to worry about. We complicate our lives with pettiness that will in fact, not matter a day from now, a week from now, a month from now, or even a year from now.

I drew upon this conclusion from a quote; a seemingly brillant quote that I'd like to share:

"If you want to test your memory try to recall what you were worrying about one year ago today."-E. Joseph Cossman

For a moment I sat. I could not recall what I was worrying about June 27 of 2011, nor could I remember what I was worrying about that month. I remember the month of June, but the particulars of what I was worrying about? I drew a complete and utter blank.

At that moment I thought: Why do I worry then? Worrying wastes time, and time my friend, waits for no man.

It was then I realized that life has a funny way of working through the kinks and getting you out of the dark tunnel. Some way or another you will stand after you fall, bills will find a way to get paid, and success can arise from a seemingly disatrous pile of failure. The end is not near; the end is merely a beginning.

Now, I may have completely misunderstood what  Mr. E Jospeh Cossman was trying to portray, but my interpretation stands: Life is too short to worry...a solution is near. Just Relax....

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Protect Your Skin This Summer

Tip #1: Avoid Excessive Exposure to the Sun!

Harmful UV rays can not only lead to skin cancer but can lead to premature aging. Did you know that up to 90% of the visible skin changes commonly attributed to aging are caused by the sun? (Source) But if that is not enough to scare you, consider these facts:

Each year, more cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the U.S than new cases of breast, lung, and colon cancer combined.

• One in  five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. 
• One American dies from skin cancer every hour. 

Melanoma, one of the most serious forms of skin cancer, affects adolescents and young adults ages 15-29. According to The United States Environmental Protection Agency, "UV exposure and sunburns, particularly during childhood, are risk factors for the disease." 

So how do you protect yourself?

Solutions:

Protect your skin by using sun block with SPF protection:

The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) refers to the products ability to screen or block out the sun's harmful rays. 

To read more about SPF protection and guidelines and the best SPF protection for you, click HERE

Cover Up:

It seems almost self explanatory, but if you want to protect your skin from the sun, cover it up. Wear light-colored, loose fitting clothing that will keep you cool and help prevent sunburn. 

To take further precautionary measures click: HERE

 If you must have a tan, protect you skin by using a sunless tanner

Mirror Reflection

"Power and beauty come from a very deep place. You can look at a supermodel and yes she is beautiful, but then you meet a woman who just has something special about her, who becomes more attractive as you get to know her. The older a woman gets, the more she can tap into that--It's about owning who you are."- Brooke Burke

Old fashion magazines and dried tubes of mascara cover her floor. Her pink mirror stands slightly at an angle to make her appear thinner; more ideal. She sighs as she stares at the girl in the mirror. She begins to wonder when her straight, narrow, body began to form womanly curves. She flips carelessly through her Cosmopolitan. The women before her are anomalies, she concludes. How can one be so...so perfect. Again she stares at her reflection begrudgingly as she applies the last coat of mascara. "When will I be beautiful like them? she whispers as if the girl before her will answer. 

It wasn't until 25, I started to appreciate the girl I saw before the mirror, and I know that I am not the only one. Many women I know and do not know, experience the same feelings and the same insecurities. Since a very young age we are taught that we must be a picture of perfection as we are continually subjected to culturally unattainable ideals. Unfortunately, we are all not as genetically blessed as Heidi Klum! But, we should never let this hinder our confidence!

Beauty, has and always will be, in the eye of the beholder. It is in our hearts and our soul that true beauty can be revealed. The clothes, the makeup, the plastic surgery merely accent the woman; these entities do not DEFINE the woman. My intention of writing this post is to commemorate women of all ages, shapes, and sizes and the beauty within. My goal, although hefty, is to grow with my readers and create that inner confidence that exudes true, breathtaking beauty. So please, put down that foundation, and take a look at the person that lies underneath the makeup. 

And remember:

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