Day #40 + A Few Extra Days
I promise I was not intending to make Day #40 a cliffhanger however I did want to share EVERYTHING that I did for my 40th and that entailed days of awesomeness compacted into one post.
Thursday
My fiance and I checked into a Moroccan hotel that was beyond my imagination. It was breathtaking and what few photos I took of it did it NO justice. The details from the lobby, restaurants, lounge, pool area to the master bathroom was immaculate and spot-in. So rich in color and culture and more than I could ever ask for. Upon entering our suite, there was a quaint nook off to the side where one would sit at the desk for a little work while on vacay. Adjacent to the office nook, was a closet filled to the gills with old books that smelled like old books in a hometown library. I was thrilled searching through old Hollywood tell-alls. A few steps ahead, my jaw drops as we move the ceiling-to-the-floor silk curtain to the side & see our master suite. From handcrafted area rugs, statues, antique chests as coffee tables, hand beaded throw pillows, paintings, ornate lamps, it was AH-MAZING!!! And the bathroom was a freakin' spa!!! It was TRULY a museum of some sort.
Friday - Morning
Happy Birthday to me!!!! I woke up like a kid on Christmas! After jumping out of the bed, running to the bathroom to make sure no grey hair grew over night, I searched the joint for my gift. Low & behold, he had it on the nightstand where I would find it. BUT being it was in an envelope, I was convinced it was not my serger or dress form I secretly and outwardly I said wanted. Let me say this, whenever you are frantically trying to open an envelope, it never fails that it is the darnest thing to open! Okay, so I ripped it open....OOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMMMGGGGGGG!! He got me premiere tickets to the screening and entrance to an exclusive SAG AFTRA member's only 1920's themed Great Gatsby party!!! OH HELL YES!! He was playing sleep & jumped up when he heard me scream with excitement. I SO wanted to go to this and he knew it! He got me JUST what I wanted. It was perfect. He is perfect.
Friday - Mid-Morning & Afternoon
We had an awesome brunch and later, lunch. At poolside, we discussed any and everything that came into mind. I was great. Later I was whisked away for professional make-up and hairstyling. I was excited. I narrowed down my evening birthday dress and accessories and all I needed was the finishing touches.
Friday Evening
A beautiful cuisine at a posh restaurant. I loved the vibe, the beautiful people, the clinking of glassware & shuffling of dinner plates. There I sat across a handsome kind soul while conversing about any and everything that came into mind. After dinner we went to the theater for the musical production of FELA KUTI! IT WAS AWESOME!!!! I LOVE Fela Kuti's music and his life's story. He was the pioneer of "Afro Beat" music and an activist for African rights. This show is a depiction of his life and it is was performed as if you were a part of his movement and as if it were in real-time.
Saturday
I had a great lunch with my gal pal and fellow creative soul. The weather was perfect. It was great to chum it up with such an awesome individual. We walked, we talked fashion, we laughed AND we had Sprinkles! My favorite red velvet vegan cup cake. Yum. I bought a new dress. Yes!
Saturday Evening
A delish dinner with my fiance and off to another theater for a stage play. The Royale starring Desean Terry, a great friend of ours. This show is a must-see!! Based on the life of African-American boxer Jack Johnson and his journey under racial cruelty and, inequality of becoming the first African-American to fight a white heavy weight champion and win. Currently it is running its Los Angeles engagement with high hopes to make its way to New York. ALL the actors brought their A-games. The audience was leaning forward. Afterwards the theater director held a Q&A for those in attendance. I found this quite engaging. The questions were thought provoking and allowed for us all to hear each others point of view of the story and the stage play. Excellent play! After the play, we joined Desean and a few friends for tapas and convo. It was so much fun to hear the behind the scenes of the play. Desean is an amazing actor and great guy. He is hilarious and keeps the company of bright, good natured creative folk.
Sunday
I was thrust back in time to the 16th Century where my Lord & I attended the Renaissance Faire in full regale. Wardrobe provided my yours truly, we were costumed as high society 16th Century folk. I had a freakin' ball!!! It really felt like we were back in time. Everyone spoke in Olde English, the townspeople bowed as we walked through their towns, the merchants were merry, the brothel women were whore-like, the pirates were swindlers, the Queen was snooty. It was perfect!! I never had so much fun! So many people asked to take photos of us & so many people bowed & called me "Me Lady". Ha! Hilarious!
So there you have it! That is how I spent my 40th Birthday!
Just to recap my 40 Days & Ways To Fabulous; I wrapped, waxed, pole danced, sewn, cooked, cross fit, did a personal photo shoot, did a separate shoot for my clothing line, shared secrets, tips & challenges. It was great! In the end I hope that I inspired. I hope that I shared information worth knowing and passing on. It was a great journey. One filled with candid snap shots of my life, some insecurities, some confidence, some "what in the hell was I thinking" moments BUT I can now say that I did it. I shared my journey AND journal with you. I may come back with a new blog. Who knows. Whatever I do, I will do it my way. Be good. Be fabulous. And most of all, be FEARLESS.
Goodbye for now, Peeps!
Monday, May 6, 2013
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Day #38 - Counting Down...
The Countdown
This evening's post will be short and sweet as I am currently preparing and packing. I am so excited about my birthday plans for this weekend and I am doing it exactly how I imagined; surrounded by those who love me and have my best interest at hand. This blog has been a fun experience and a telling one. At the end of it all, I hope to have gained some personal insight as well as shared useful information.
Have a great evening, Peeps! :-)
This evening's post will be short and sweet as I am currently preparing and packing. I am so excited about my birthday plans for this weekend and I am doing it exactly how I imagined; surrounded by those who love me and have my best interest at hand. This blog has been a fun experience and a telling one. At the end of it all, I hope to have gained some personal insight as well as shared useful information.
Have a great evening, Peeps! :-)
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Day #37 - Summer Essentials
Summer Time
As we dive head first into Spring Cleaning, we come up for fresh air and in anticipation for the Summer months. Spring and Summer are my favorite seasons. Spring for fashion and Summer for the weather...and fashion too. I was perusing the inter-web and read a few articles on 'getting Summer ready.' During this time of year we are inundated with radio and television ads regarding getting in shape or shopping for the Summer. I mean, I do not know what it is but for some reason my awareness of these ads were heightened this year. Hmmm...perhaps it could be that I am focused on welcoming the second half of my life and I want to know the who-what-when-and-where, so my antennas are up. Although most of the ads are either about cosmetic surgery, weight loss surgery, weight loss supplements or workout programs, they all tie in the Summer as the time to get it right and tight. There is so many things out there on the market, the challenge is narrowing it down to something you can stick to, afford or need.
Anywoo, here are a few of the things that I've came across. I am not promoting anything in particular or stating that I've tried these things with proven results. This is just a list of items or services that appears to be what's in. Use your own discernment.
Getting Summer Ready
Ivory And Olive - this is such a cute site. They are offering a great deal on an Allure Beauty Box that has an array of products and Summer essentials. Check them out here: http://ivoryandolive.com/2013/04/allure-beauty-box-summer-essentials-2013/
McIlwain says although the in-office method is more costly, both methods work well. "Whitening toothpaste is good for maintenance," he says, "but the toothpaste will not give you dramatic changes. Also, the over-the-counter whitening systems do not work as well as the formula you can get from your dentist."
Make sure to get your teeth checked and cleaned every six months to keep them looking beautiful and healthy.
Here's an easy posture test Smith recommends to her patients: Stand sideways in front of a mirror and imagine a line from your ear to the floor. This line should go through the tip of your shoulder, the middle of your hip, the back of your kneecap, and the front of your anklebone. Do this several times a day to become more aware of how you stand.
One is the partial curl-up. "While lying with your back on the floor and your legs flat on the floor -- not bent up as you typically see -- lift your head and chest up toward the ceiling. Now lead with your forehead and fingertips, moving them straight up at the same time. Keep your chin tucked. Lift your chest as far up off the floor as you can (not curling forward, but up toward the ceiling) and then lower back down. Keep your abdominal muscles contracted (or 'on') the whole time, allowing them to rest only after a set of 10 to 15 times has been completed."
To tighten the lower abdominals so your belly does not bulge, Gutkind recommends getting down on your hands and knees with your spine straight, not arched up or sagging down. "Lift the lower abdomen up toward the spine and squeeze. Do not arch the back upwards. Simply lift the lower abdomen up, squeeze, and let it relax back down. Do 10 to 15 of these exercises each time, and you'll feel the muscles working very low in the abdominal area."
Kaminsky recommends foot creams that contain alpha hydroxyl acids (AHAs). One example is glycolic acid. AHAs smooth skin, exfoliate dead cells and stimulate the growth of new, softer and healthier skin. Foot creams usually contain peppermint oil, menthol, menthyl lactate, or a combination of these, since these ingredients are cooling and refreshing.
"Kneel on the floor on your hands and knees," she says, "and make sure that your hands are under the shoulders and your knees under the hips, with toes touching.
"Now stretch your neck forward and lengthen your spine through the tailbone. Gently rock the weight of your body back toward your feet, letting your hips stretch farther back as you continue to lengthen and stretch your spine.
"Stretch your arms forward and walk your fingertips as far forward as they will go on the floor or rug, lengthening your arms fully. Extend your hips back until they come toward your heels. If you're very flexible, you may be able to rest your hips on your heels and your forehead on the floor," she says.
Berg says to put your forehead on the rug or pillow to calm your mind and let your forehead and eyes completely relax.
As we dive head first into Spring Cleaning, we come up for fresh air and in anticipation for the Summer months. Spring and Summer are my favorite seasons. Spring for fashion and Summer for the weather...and fashion too. I was perusing the inter-web and read a few articles on 'getting Summer ready.' During this time of year we are inundated with radio and television ads regarding getting in shape or shopping for the Summer. I mean, I do not know what it is but for some reason my awareness of these ads were heightened this year. Hmmm...perhaps it could be that I am focused on welcoming the second half of my life and I want to know the who-what-when-and-where, so my antennas are up. Although most of the ads are either about cosmetic surgery, weight loss surgery, weight loss supplements or workout programs, they all tie in the Summer as the time to get it right and tight. There is so many things out there on the market, the challenge is narrowing it down to something you can stick to, afford or need.
Anywoo, here are a few of the things that I've came across. I am not promoting anything in particular or stating that I've tried these things with proven results. This is just a list of items or services that appears to be what's in. Use your own discernment.
Getting Summer Ready
Ivory And Olive - this is such a cute site. They are offering a great deal on an Allure Beauty Box that has an array of products and Summer essentials. Check them out here: http://ivoryandolive.com/2013/04/allure-beauty-box-summer-essentials-2013/
The Military Diet - (I have NOT tried this...proceed at your own discretion). I was at my son's school for a parent committe meeting and the mom's began talking about the Military Diet. I've never heard of it so I became interested in learning. They sound as if it has been around for some time now. Later that evening, I did a little research and here is what I found. "The Military Diet lets you lose up to 10 pounds per week without strenuous exercise or prescriptions. And best of all, the Military Diet is free! The 3 day military diet plan is probably less expensive than what you’re already eating. The chemically formulated food combination is designed to burn fat, kick start your metabolism and lose weight fast. In fact, the Military Diet is one of the best natural diets known for rapid weight loss without a prescription." http://themilitarydiet.com/
On its website you will find the complete 3 Day Diet Plan and other tips on assisting you with your goals. Here is an example of Day 1 Breakfast:
Summer 2013 Trends - of course we cannot and must not forget Summer fashion. Whip out the swimsuit, sun block, floppy hats, sandals, sunnies, bright colors, maxi dresses, mini dresses, shorts...the list goes on and on...
Summer Makeover
1. Start with soft, shiny hair.
In the book Smart Cookies Don't Get Stale, registered dietitians Susan Mitchell, PhD and Catherine Christie, PhD, give natural ways to use food to help you look your best. To liven up dull, dry hair, they suggest coating your hair with mayonnaise or olive oil (other oils such as canola also work fine). Wrap your head with plastic wrap followed by a warm towel, and relax for 10 minutes or longer. Wash the oil out with an herbal shampoo for a great feel and fresh smell.2. Protect your eyes from UV rays.
Just as you slather suntan lotion on your skin, your eyes deserve protection, too. Excessive exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the cornea of the eye. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends wearing sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of UV-A rays and UV-B rays. (UV-B rays do the most damage to eyes.) Even if you wear contacts with UV protection, remember to still wear your sunglasses for maximum protection of your entire eyes.3. Whiten your teeth.
There's nothing like white teeth to bring attention to your summer glow. According to pediatric dentist Mike McIlwain, DMD, whitening teeth is a safe and rewarding procedure. "You can use either the whitening strips or trays for a two-week period at night. Or you can opt for the in-office whitening at your dentist's that takes a little over an hour."McIlwain says although the in-office method is more costly, both methods work well. "Whitening toothpaste is good for maintenance," he says, "but the toothpaste will not give you dramatic changes. Also, the over-the-counter whitening systems do not work as well as the formula you can get from your dentist."
Make sure to get your teeth checked and cleaned every six months to keep them looking beautiful and healthy.
4. Be confident and stand tall.
Tampa-based rheumatologist Kim Smith, MD, says, "When you stand tall, make sure that your chin is parallel to the ground. Pretend you're balancing a book on your head and look forward, not down. Draw your shoulders together as if they are attempting to touch. Pull your stomach in toward your spine, and lift up your chest, keeping your neck long."Here's an easy posture test Smith recommends to her patients: Stand sideways in front of a mirror and imagine a line from your ear to the floor. This line should go through the tip of your shoulder, the middle of your hip, the back of your kneecap, and the front of your anklebone. Do this several times a day to become more aware of how you stand.
5. Tighten your abs the right way.
Los Angeles-based physical therapist David Gutkind, DPT, gives two simple exercises to get six-pack abs.One is the partial curl-up. "While lying with your back on the floor and your legs flat on the floor -- not bent up as you typically see -- lift your head and chest up toward the ceiling. Now lead with your forehead and fingertips, moving them straight up at the same time. Keep your chin tucked. Lift your chest as far up off the floor as you can (not curling forward, but up toward the ceiling) and then lower back down. Keep your abdominal muscles contracted (or 'on') the whole time, allowing them to rest only after a set of 10 to 15 times has been completed."
To tighten the lower abdominals so your belly does not bulge, Gutkind recommends getting down on your hands and knees with your spine straight, not arched up or sagging down. "Lift the lower abdomen up toward the spine and squeeze. Do not arch the back upwards. Simply lift the lower abdomen up, squeeze, and let it relax back down. Do 10 to 15 of these exercises each time, and you'll feel the muscles working very low in the abdominal area."
6. Super-saturate your feet and heels.
Dermatological chemist Ben Kaminsky is founder of the cosmeceuticals company B. Kamins, Chemist. Kaminsky says the feet and heels are especially prone to thickened skin (called hyperkeratinization), calluses, skin cracking, itchiness and irritation.Kaminsky recommends foot creams that contain alpha hydroxyl acids (AHAs). One example is glycolic acid. AHAs smooth skin, exfoliate dead cells and stimulate the growth of new, softer and healthier skin. Foot creams usually contain peppermint oil, menthol, menthyl lactate, or a combination of these, since these ingredients are cooling and refreshing.
7. Protect your skin from the sun's UV rays.
Kaminsky recommends applying 1 ounce (about 2 tablespoons) of sunscreen generously every morning to all exposed skin -- "head to toe" -- about 15 to 30 minutes before you go outside. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming, sweating, showering, bathing (including Jacuzzis or hot tubs), or wiping your skin. Select the sun protection factor (SPF) that gives your skin the most protection. Kaminsky suggests the following SPF factors, depending on your type of skin:- SPF of 15 or more for black or brown skin and skin that always tans.
- SPF of 30 or more for skin that sometimes burns.
- SPF of 45 or more for light colored skin that always burns.
8. Try a yoga pose to "chill" on hot summer days.
Britt Berg, MS, research manager at Emory University Medical School, recommends the Child's Pose to clients who want to de-stress. Here's how to do this pose:"Kneel on the floor on your hands and knees," she says, "and make sure that your hands are under the shoulders and your knees under the hips, with toes touching.
"Now stretch your neck forward and lengthen your spine through the tailbone. Gently rock the weight of your body back toward your feet, letting your hips stretch farther back as you continue to lengthen and stretch your spine.
"Stretch your arms forward and walk your fingertips as far forward as they will go on the floor or rug, lengthening your arms fully. Extend your hips back until they come toward your heels. If you're very flexible, you may be able to rest your hips on your heels and your forehead on the floor," she says.
Berg says to put your forehead on the rug or pillow to calm your mind and let your forehead and eyes completely relax.
Day #36 - Spring Cleaning: Mind, Body, Spirit & Home
Spring Cleaning
I must admit that as of today my main closet isn't as neat as it usually is. It is in shambles. It's an organized shamble but yet and still, a shamble. I have this thing where I want all of my favorites in the bedroom closet therefore it is quickly filling up and spilling into other parts of our bedroom. I am not happy with this level of disorganization. When my space is cluttered it affects me in a way where I am not as efficient as I desire to be. I am either wasting my time looking for a certain item of clothing, accessory or something needed to get me out of the door in a timely fashion. It hinders my progress and sets the tone for a less than productive day. Which domino effects and places me in a poor disposition.
It is important to maintain a level of neatness when it comes to your personal space. We spend hours in our cars, in traffic, in a line, at work or idling about so when we reach our respective homes, it should be welcoming. That is where we decompress and leave the outside world on the outside. Our home is where our mind, body and spirit rests. Where we lay down and think and be thankful. My bedroom should be my oasis within my home. Instead it is becoming a closet within itself. I am not happy with how I allowed myself to get behind on something as simple as keeping my closet neat or putting things back into the closet. Futhermore, I am not happy with how my spirit shifts when I walk into my bedroom. It's that instant sigh of "damn, look at this mess...uh, I made." Even with the help I get from my cleaning lady, I am still very particular about my bedroom and closet. I have a system and only I can organize my personal space. So that is why it is not up to par...I'm busy. Anywooo...now is the time to get it together and what better what to whip into shape by performing a complete overhaul. It's Spring Cleaning, y'all!
Mind, Body & Spirit
In a recent article I read on serenecenter.com, it focused on spring cleaning the mind, body and spirit. Andrew T. Martin, MBA cites, "it is spring time, a time when so many make the annual effort to clean out the old items shoved back in closets and cabinets that will never be used again. I propose we use this time to take an inventory of some other, more important, components in our lives and do some spring cleaning there as well." Martin further expounds on taking inventory of the more important components in our lives; psychological, physiological and spiritual.
Psychological - Spring cleaning in the psychological domain can be accomplished by actively making a decision to advocate for one’s own accurate thought process. Accurate thinking involves being present, in the moment, and being able to interpret what is going on around us with clarity. While difficult, when mastered, presence begets mindfulness which allows us to view our thoughts and behaviors in a nonjudgmental way, so we can accept our circumstances as they are. We may have areas of our lives that we do not wish to accept, but we must, for with acceptance comes consideration, prudence, and healthy attitudes that lead to healthy courses of action in our lives.
Physiological - Spring cleaning of our physiological health, our body’s health, also requires a conscious commitment to take care of the living tissue that in turn takes care of our spirit and soul. Our body needs us to be disciplined and routine about taking care of ourselves. This includes rest, healthy nutrition, 20-30 daily exercise, creativity, play and adventurous activities. Our physiological health is not just limited to activities; there is a strong bond between the health of our body and certain mental functions as well. Our body needs us to be disciplined and responsible or we will feel the negative effects of the stress on our body in ways that lead to reduced immunity to illness, increased blood pressure, susceptibility to disease, and fatigue. Our body needs fulfilling work that helps us to create a positive self-image of ourselves, and our body needs routine activity to produce energy and promote the flow of that energy through our biological systems.
Spiritual - Our spirit needs some attention during spring cleaning as well. We need a higher power for help, guidance, strength, and opportunity, so that we may be relieved of the burden of solving all life’s difficulties alone. We need to be kind to others, to animals, to the Earth, and most importantly to ourselves. Through kindness we will experience compassion, empathy and generosity: the forms of emotions that bind us together as human beings and give us a sense of belonging. We need to allow ourselves to be calm and to be present, to allow all forms of agitation to leave our minds for a while, and to find serenity in that peaceful place. If we can understand our higher power, find kindness, and connect to that place of serenity, we will also understand humility. Our spirit finds humility in for form of a deep comprehension that we are not in control of most circumstances, and therefore we are freed. With humility we encounter spiritual revival, and we become able to forgive those who have harmed us, and we can forgive ourselves for the harm we have caused others and ourselves. www.serenecenter.com/.../Serene%20Center%20Spring%20Cleaning%20...
Home
I must admit that as of today my main closet isn't as neat as it usually is. It is in shambles. It's an organized shamble but yet and still, a shamble. I have this thing where I want all of my favorites in the bedroom closet therefore it is quickly filling up and spilling into other parts of our bedroom. I am not happy with this level of disorganization. When my space is cluttered it affects me in a way where I am not as efficient as I desire to be. I am either wasting my time looking for a certain item of clothing, accessory or something needed to get me out of the door in a timely fashion. It hinders my progress and sets the tone for a less than productive day. Which domino effects and places me in a poor disposition.
It is important to maintain a level of neatness when it comes to your personal space. We spend hours in our cars, in traffic, in a line, at work or idling about so when we reach our respective homes, it should be welcoming. That is where we decompress and leave the outside world on the outside. Our home is where our mind, body and spirit rests. Where we lay down and think and be thankful. My bedroom should be my oasis within my home. Instead it is becoming a closet within itself. I am not happy with how I allowed myself to get behind on something as simple as keeping my closet neat or putting things back into the closet. Futhermore, I am not happy with how my spirit shifts when I walk into my bedroom. It's that instant sigh of "damn, look at this mess...uh, I made." Even with the help I get from my cleaning lady, I am still very particular about my bedroom and closet. I have a system and only I can organize my personal space. So that is why it is not up to par...I'm busy. Anywooo...now is the time to get it together and what better what to whip into shape by performing a complete overhaul. It's Spring Cleaning, y'all!
Mind, Body & Spirit
In a recent article I read on serenecenter.com, it focused on spring cleaning the mind, body and spirit. Andrew T. Martin, MBA cites, "it is spring time, a time when so many make the annual effort to clean out the old items shoved back in closets and cabinets that will never be used again. I propose we use this time to take an inventory of some other, more important, components in our lives and do some spring cleaning there as well." Martin further expounds on taking inventory of the more important components in our lives; psychological, physiological and spiritual.
Psychological - Spring cleaning in the psychological domain can be accomplished by actively making a decision to advocate for one’s own accurate thought process. Accurate thinking involves being present, in the moment, and being able to interpret what is going on around us with clarity. While difficult, when mastered, presence begets mindfulness which allows us to view our thoughts and behaviors in a nonjudgmental way, so we can accept our circumstances as they are. We may have areas of our lives that we do not wish to accept, but we must, for with acceptance comes consideration, prudence, and healthy attitudes that lead to healthy courses of action in our lives.
Physiological - Spring cleaning of our physiological health, our body’s health, also requires a conscious commitment to take care of the living tissue that in turn takes care of our spirit and soul. Our body needs us to be disciplined and routine about taking care of ourselves. This includes rest, healthy nutrition, 20-30 daily exercise, creativity, play and adventurous activities. Our physiological health is not just limited to activities; there is a strong bond between the health of our body and certain mental functions as well. Our body needs us to be disciplined and responsible or we will feel the negative effects of the stress on our body in ways that lead to reduced immunity to illness, increased blood pressure, susceptibility to disease, and fatigue. Our body needs fulfilling work that helps us to create a positive self-image of ourselves, and our body needs routine activity to produce energy and promote the flow of that energy through our biological systems.
Spiritual - Our spirit needs some attention during spring cleaning as well. We need a higher power for help, guidance, strength, and opportunity, so that we may be relieved of the burden of solving all life’s difficulties alone. We need to be kind to others, to animals, to the Earth, and most importantly to ourselves. Through kindness we will experience compassion, empathy and generosity: the forms of emotions that bind us together as human beings and give us a sense of belonging. We need to allow ourselves to be calm and to be present, to allow all forms of agitation to leave our minds for a while, and to find serenity in that peaceful place. If we can understand our higher power, find kindness, and connect to that place of serenity, we will also understand humility. Our spirit finds humility in for form of a deep comprehension that we are not in control of most circumstances, and therefore we are freed. With humility we encounter spiritual revival, and we become able to forgive those who have harmed us, and we can forgive ourselves for the harm we have caused others and ourselves. www.serenecenter.com/.../Serene%20Center%20Spring%20Cleaning%20...
Home
1. Use dollar store cleaning supplies
Not everything is a good buy at the dollar store, but house-cleaning supplies represent one of the smarter purchases. In addition to sponges, brushes, and gloves, many tests have found that cleaners from the dollar store work just as well as name-brand products. You can also buy generic versions of bleach and ammonia since the composition of these chemicals is identical between brands.
2. DIY for savings
Cleaning products and tools represent a billion-dollar industry, and yet most of your daily tasks can be completed using items you already own. Short on rags? Cut or tear old clothing to make your own. Soft cotton t-shirts can be used as polishing cloths, while a tube sock makes for a great dusting mitt. Cleaning products themselves are also easily replicated at home, and vinegar and baking soda are two of the ultimate multi-purpose products. .
3. Exchange clutter for cash
Spring cleaning often results in a pile of unwanted items typically destined for donation. While some items might be more appropriate for Goodwill, take the time to sort through everything to determine what you can sell for cash.
4. Repurpose for organization
Once you're in the spring-cleaning mode, you may find yourself eager to toss anything and everything that no longer services you. Before you overwhelm your trash service, think creatively about how you can repurpose some general items. Old plastic containers can be used to organize items like paper clips, push pins, or gadget accessories currently cluttering your "junk drawer." Similarly, folded magazines or diced pool noodles can serve as boot shapers.
5. Try deeply discounted cleaning
Spring cleaning should be synonymous with deep cleaning, but motivation tends to wane after one session of scrubbing baseboards with a toothbrush. Consider hiring a professional cleaner to do the initial dirty work. Though expert services tend to be pricey, you can usually find savings through daily deals. You can also score new-client discounts from local companies, but be sure you don't have to sign up for multiple sessions to get the initial savings. Pre-clean and organize your home before the professional visit to expedite the process. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/women-co/7-budget-hacks-for-spring_b_3165226.html
So there you have it! Tips and vital information for doing a personal Spring Cleaning overhaul to maintain your mind, body, spirit and home.
Happy Spring Cleaning, Peeps!
Not everything is a good buy at the dollar store, but house-cleaning supplies represent one of the smarter purchases. In addition to sponges, brushes, and gloves, many tests have found that cleaners from the dollar store work just as well as name-brand products. You can also buy generic versions of bleach and ammonia since the composition of these chemicals is identical between brands.
2. DIY for savings
Cleaning products and tools represent a billion-dollar industry, and yet most of your daily tasks can be completed using items you already own. Short on rags? Cut or tear old clothing to make your own. Soft cotton t-shirts can be used as polishing cloths, while a tube sock makes for a great dusting mitt. Cleaning products themselves are also easily replicated at home, and vinegar and baking soda are two of the ultimate multi-purpose products. .
3. Exchange clutter for cash
Spring cleaning often results in a pile of unwanted items typically destined for donation. While some items might be more appropriate for Goodwill, take the time to sort through everything to determine what you can sell for cash.
4. Repurpose for organization
Once you're in the spring-cleaning mode, you may find yourself eager to toss anything and everything that no longer services you. Before you overwhelm your trash service, think creatively about how you can repurpose some general items. Old plastic containers can be used to organize items like paper clips, push pins, or gadget accessories currently cluttering your "junk drawer." Similarly, folded magazines or diced pool noodles can serve as boot shapers.
5. Try deeply discounted cleaning
Spring cleaning should be synonymous with deep cleaning, but motivation tends to wane after one session of scrubbing baseboards with a toothbrush. Consider hiring a professional cleaner to do the initial dirty work. Though expert services tend to be pricey, you can usually find savings through daily deals. You can also score new-client discounts from local companies, but be sure you don't have to sign up for multiple sessions to get the initial savings. Pre-clean and organize your home before the professional visit to expedite the process. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/women-co/7-budget-hacks-for-spring_b_3165226.html
So there you have it! Tips and vital information for doing a personal Spring Cleaning overhaul to maintain your mind, body, spirit and home.
Happy Spring Cleaning, Peeps!
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Day #35 - Family, Friends & Faith
Family, Friends & Faith
This morning my family and I was able to share a special moment with friends. It was their son's dedication ceremony. A dedication ceremony is the church welcoming of a child as a member of the congregation and the parent's promise to raise him/her as a Christian and according to the Bible. It was my first and it was a memorable experience. It was great to see such loving and involved parents beam with pride and joy as their young son was folded into the flock.
What I took from today's experience was reminder of the importance of family, friends and faith and them having a direct correlation. This is the foundation in which we want to build upon. More importantly, is the strength of this foundation. We strengthen these relationships with the help of our faith. Relying on a Higher power to help us with human relationships. When my fiance and I started dating he immediately introduced me to the important people in his life. I felt very special. His friends soon became my friends and his family took me in as their own. He is a man of strong conviction and faith and where I lack, he carries me. I did not come with a host of people in my life so there is a little one-sideness to our dynamic but we manage well with the strong support group we have formed. I am happy for our friends and their choice to serve as students of the Bible with their handsome son in tow. They are a strong family and it is because of their faith and strong family ties. I can only pray for the same.
Happy Sunday, Peeps!
This morning my family and I was able to share a special moment with friends. It was their son's dedication ceremony. A dedication ceremony is the church welcoming of a child as a member of the congregation and the parent's promise to raise him/her as a Christian and according to the Bible. It was my first and it was a memorable experience. It was great to see such loving and involved parents beam with pride and joy as their young son was folded into the flock.
What I took from today's experience was reminder of the importance of family, friends and faith and them having a direct correlation. This is the foundation in which we want to build upon. More importantly, is the strength of this foundation. We strengthen these relationships with the help of our faith. Relying on a Higher power to help us with human relationships. When my fiance and I started dating he immediately introduced me to the important people in his life. I felt very special. His friends soon became my friends and his family took me in as their own. He is a man of strong conviction and faith and where I lack, he carries me. I did not come with a host of people in my life so there is a little one-sideness to our dynamic but we manage well with the strong support group we have formed. I am happy for our friends and their choice to serve as students of the Bible with their handsome son in tow. They are a strong family and it is because of their faith and strong family ties. I can only pray for the same.
Happy Sunday, Peeps!
Day #34 - What's Old Is New
Vintage Is The New Old
On Saturday I attended the Vintage Fashion Expo in Santa Monica, CA. It was grand. As soon as I stepped up to the venue's entrance I felt an immediate rush. I get this rush when I become overly excited about shopping. My eyes gloss over, my heart begin to heavily palpitate and I become like a kid in a candy store. It's dangerous. The best and worst part, there was thee most awesome vintage store/booth/set-up located at the VERY front of the venue...like before you even go in...like on the way in...like take my money now. I perused the expo four times over and filled a few bags with some awesomeness.
On my drive home from the expo I found myself thinking about my time there. How interesting the people in attendance were. How unique each and every shop was. How personable the owner's of each and every shop was. How beautiful and delicate the fashions were. The expo brings out a certain crowd; from the ageless beauties to the rockabilly hipsters and all those in between. I enjoyed myself. I enjoyed shopping at my speed and on my time. The irony of it all is that I felt a connection to the entire vintage experience, the "old" being new. We live in an age that relies heavily on machinery therefore some of the fashion is cookie cutter assembly line produced. Vintage fashion is the rave and most fashion enthusiasts are buying vintage. The detailing and craftsmanship 'of old' was/is impeccable. I had the chance to take it all in and examine items from the 20th and 21st century. It was amazing. What is even more amazing is how I see my journey of turning "old" a good thing as I am renewed by the great people, places and things around me. I am thankful.
The Digs
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On Saturday I attended the Vintage Fashion Expo in Santa Monica, CA. It was grand. As soon as I stepped up to the venue's entrance I felt an immediate rush. I get this rush when I become overly excited about shopping. My eyes gloss over, my heart begin to heavily palpitate and I become like a kid in a candy store. It's dangerous. The best and worst part, there was thee most awesome vintage store/booth/set-up located at the VERY front of the venue...like before you even go in...like on the way in...like take my money now. I perused the expo four times over and filled a few bags with some awesomeness.
On my drive home from the expo I found myself thinking about my time there. How interesting the people in attendance were. How unique each and every shop was. How personable the owner's of each and every shop was. How beautiful and delicate the fashions were. The expo brings out a certain crowd; from the ageless beauties to the rockabilly hipsters and all those in between. I enjoyed myself. I enjoyed shopping at my speed and on my time. The irony of it all is that I felt a connection to the entire vintage experience, the "old" being new. We live in an age that relies heavily on machinery therefore some of the fashion is cookie cutter assembly line produced. Vintage fashion is the rave and most fashion enthusiasts are buying vintage. The detailing and craftsmanship 'of old' was/is impeccable. I had the chance to take it all in and examine items from the 20th and 21st century. It was amazing. What is even more amazing is how I see my journey of turning "old" a good thing as I am renewed by the great people, places and things around me. I am thankful.
The Digs
I was so overwhelmed with excitement and then I started to shop so my pics are limited because I was overwhelmed and shopping! I managed to purchased items from the '60s, '70s and '80s. My favorite shop was Thatch Vintage. Thatch Vintage was the shop that was located at the entrance of the venue that was instantly and ultimately my fav. I was able to snatch up a great Diane Von Furstenberg dress that I adore and cannot wait to don. Thatch is a mobile boutique in a converted trailer. It is decorated so freakin' awesome! From the outside to the inside, simply wonderful! The shopkeepers were the most kindest and gorgeous people who made my shopping experience worth while.
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| Thatch Vintage Mobile Boutique |
Catch Thatch Vintage here:
Happy Shopping, Peeps!
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