tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-92158722024-03-17T23:03:49.445-04:00::*:.the:darling:miss:g.:*::Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.comBlogger922125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-22932525729628444222019-11-18T12:29:00.000-05:002019-11-18T12:29:21.528-05:00::insta:world::<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I have a serious issue...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">One that I am sure many other people can relate to - and that is comparing...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I compare myself to others all the time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I compare my body to others. I compare my face and makeup to others. My clothes. My car. My home. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I compare my art and my writing...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">That's one that is really affecting me lately. </span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I was able to find something - for the first time in such a long time - that gave me catharsis. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Something that I am constantly thinking of on a day to day basis, something that I put off sleep for in case my mind comes up with something brilliant. It has been exciting, and scary, and overall a lot of freakin' fun. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">But then instagram got in the way...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Instagram is trying to destroy it...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">And I honestly feel like I'm in a honey trap. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Like, I can't seem to get out of this...it's insane to me how one can love and hate something so much.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I love that I have a platform to share my art...I hate how when I compare my page to others no one is connecting with what it is that I am writing...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I love how my page looks, how unique it is and how ME it is...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I hate how my page looks, how ME it is...how no one seems to like "me". </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I started writing this almost a week ago...and when I woke up this morning I realized that my constantly instagram checking is not helping my mental health - it's not adding to my life. It's hindering it. So I think I'm going to take a bit of a break in the insta-world.<br />Perhaps I will just continue posting here...post some of my poetry...post my art. And go from there. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Anyways - have any of you had issues like this in the past? What do you do to get through it? Share in the comments. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-48958033381237309072019-10-31T13:26:00.004-04:002019-10-31T13:26:57.295-04:00::*::wanderlust::*::<div class="gmail_default" style="font-family: georgia, serif; text-align: center;">
It has been such a long time since I have posted on this blog. </div>
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I have been going back and forth between sites and domains for a while now. Live Well with Miss G...Soma Shift...trying to push out something into the world wide web and into the world that I don't feel I really have in me to share or do. </div>
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For some reason...every time I go back to this blog, I feel a heavy wistfulness...</div>
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All these other blogs that I tried starting had the "perfect blog" in mind - the blogs that I see by other people...but I mean, that is their jam. Their photography and perfecting their posts whereas for me, it's just a perfectly imperfect place to ramble on randomly. </div>
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I think I'm going to come back to this for the time being. I feel more inspired to write here and feel like I can be myself without checking things over 1000 times and feel like I need to share something that others will like to see. I started this for myself...and I will continue with doing it for myself. </div>
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I will most likely share some of my artwork here (I will explain this in another post) and my poetry (will explain that as well)...I will do my random ramblings and book reviews/wishlists...I will share recipes that I have actually tried!! And ones that I want to try in the future. </div>
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This was more like a journal to me...I enjoyed it a lot! So...I guess I am back...for now. </div>
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We all know how that goes with me...lol. </div>
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-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></div>
Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-47337121902002671452019-02-05T09:48:00.001-05:002019-02-05T09:48:48.902-05:00::direction::<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.6933px; margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I’ve been at this blogging thing for a bit – but have gone off the radar, back on, off again…I enjoy writing a lot…and get inspired by so many things – want to get a creative as possible, but for whatever reason there are things that hold me back. I guess many of us go through these feelings from time to time – where we don’t trust our own selves to be the best we can be…or rather, what if our best self isn’t “good enough”? You’ll often hear people say that you should talk to yourself the way you would talk to a loved one or best friend – you would never tell them that they couldn’t do something or that you don’t believe in them, so why is it so easy for us to do it to ourselves? I mean, it becomes second nature in some cases to the point where you don’t even realize that you are in fact, slamming yourself down into the ground day in and out. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;">I think this negative self-talk, paired with procrastination and oftentimes feeling like there are never enough hours in the day (which is complete BS!) lead me astray from some of the goals that I have for myself. From doing some of the things that I am completely passionate about.</span><span style="font-family: "Courier New", Courier, monospace;"> </span></div>
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And all because I am “comfortable” – despite my being unhappy with the path that I am currently on career wise, it pays the bills, right? Not only that, but I am also afraid of what others will think – which is another thing in itself that is sad. Why can’t my voice be just as important as others? In retrospect, it is…but that fear is what holds me back. My comfort is what holds me back. And my unhappiness is what keeps reminding me that I’m not meant to be doing what I am currently doing and I need to step outside of that comfort zone and do things for me!</div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.5467px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It’s important in the blogging world to have a sort of niche – I started with one, and then eventually got to a fork in the road…I decided to split myself in two, which lead me to another, which divided me up and as you can see now this blog is just absolutely all over the map. I have everything from high fashion to celeb gossip, fitness to bodybuilding to food to random rambling and book wishlists…I mean, these are all things that I love…but…it doesn’t contribute to anyone’s well being really…does it?</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.5467px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So I have decided that I will dedicate at least 30 minutes of my time, daily, to brainstorming and figuring out what my own niche is. What actual direction I want this blog to go in. I might end up going to an entirely different domain (which has happened before to no success) and just continue on with this one and babystep it. But perhaps it’s time for a fresh start? As much as I love this blog there really isn’t any continuity or consistency in my thought process or the direction The Darling is headed.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.5467px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I really think that it might be a more nutritional based approach, take some of my schooling and throw it in there…and I might still have some inspo-type posts….but, it’s time to grow up a bit.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.5467px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Thanks to all those that have stuck by me (although I’m thinking there aren’t many of you left)…and here’s to a better year (last year was no Bueno) and one where I demand myself to step out of my comfort zone at least once a week! This is one of those I guess…I’ll be sure to keep everyone in the loop.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 18.5467px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></span></div>
Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-923687093056323752018-09-02T19:33:00.001-04:002018-09-02T19:33:40.166-04:00::letting it go::<div class="gmail_default" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34); color: #222222; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="line-height: 19.97333335876465px;">It is that time again...the time that basic bitches thrive on. And I'm allowed to say such things because I am totally one of them - and damn proud of it! LOL.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I mean, I can't speak for everyone, but I can most definitely speak for myself and I freakin LOVE Fall! I am OBSESSED with everything Fall-related. Honestly. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">There is just something absolutely extraordinary about this season and I am eternally grateful that I am able to live in a province that has the most beautiful Autumn season. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Even the simplest words can evoke such a visceral feeling in the pit of my stomach which I can only describe as joyous. Honestly! It pains me to say it because of how cliche it sounds but it's true. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I love the colours. The clothes. The smells. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The rotting leaves. The crunchy sound they make. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I love pumpkins and apple orchards. Pies and baked goods. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Hearty foods and </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">stews. I love boots and huge sweaters. Cool weather and Fall clouds - yes, Fall has clouds! You know those days...where the sky is painted a cobalt blue so rich it looks surreal and ominous iron-coloured clouds that crowd the sky in blinding white auras. Looks like any minute it would rain but the persistent sun peeks out here and there. With that comes the biting breeze which causes you to prematurely whip out the fleecy, comfy clothes. You know what I'm talking about. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">My last Fall I spent in New York City for my Mom's 50th Birthday (if you can believe she's fifty!) and it was such an amazing time. Honestly! I never really wanted to visit New York but I would go back in a heartbeat. That city is an entire world of it's own! And it's funny because just the other day (when it was a sweltering +40C out there with the humidity back in Ontario) the Pumpkin Spice Latte came out...and myself, being as basic as they can get, could not WAIT to get my hands on a venti of that chemical-laden, sugar-overloaded (DELICIOUS) $6 concoction. Let me tell you...it did not disappoint...and not in the way that you may be thinking...the taste was not bad at all, don't get me wrong...but it literally transported me to October 2017 in Manhattan...where my Dad ordered me a PSL in Soho and I spotted the gorgeous Candice Kumai - whom I chased down the street to get a picture with (and she was the sweetest EVER)...and we both ended up in St. George's Park 10 minutes later (I swear I didn't follow her people!)...anyways, just everything about that moment, that day completely reminded me of being in an episode of Gossip Girl - which, strangely enough, reminds me of Fall as well....I would torture my other half with wine-soaked evenings marathoning the show and eating friend chicken from Mary Browns (odd, I know) with the crisp coloured trees overtaking our little oasis (in the old digs) with the windows cracked open, candles and fireplace going and also hiding under wool blankets. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Anyways...it's just funny how little things like that can completely take you away from the present moment and into a bubble of utter charm. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(34, 34, 34);">Some of my most cherished memories are in the Fall - I don't know why...but for some reason I feel so ridiculously alive during this time...there is a quote that says it so well...speaks to me in so many different ways when looking at this season and life in general and that is: </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So go ahead...let go of what has happened thus far...cherish the good, sift and ditch the bad and become your very own special Fall leaf and float ahead into a new Season with a crisp and fresher perspective on life and on yourself. I know that this year I am going to make the most of it. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #e69138; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Fall is MY New Year..and I can't wait to celebrate all September and October long! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="color: #e69138;">-S.</span><span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-15866237081762199802018-08-15T11:15:00.001-04:002018-08-15T11:15:47.449-04:00::fate::<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Despite having a different blog (Live Well With Miss G) I feel compelled to always come over to this side to post...and yet I haven't. Ever since I had started my other blog and putting so much "pressure" on myself I lost interest in writing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This side of my blogging world seems so much more relaxed, cozier. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I feel like I am betraying my other blog only because I spent so much time on it...but was it worth it? I don't know. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Obviously not since I've barely posted on there and I was pretty darn consistent here. It didn't matter what I posted on here, I just went with it. So to get inspired once again let this be my return (ish) to the blogging world...and back to The Darling Miss G.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com63tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-33317543864938019582016-12-01T12:16:00.001-05:002016-12-01T12:16:57.542-05:00::*::christmas:is:going:to:the:dogs::*::<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">"While visions of sugar plums danced in their heads"...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The above ^^^ is totally me. Except it's not sugar plums (what are sugar plums anyway??) but Toasted Coconut Turtles...and Reese Pecan Clusters. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I'm dying for sweets...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">In all reality it isn't THAT bad...I make it a lot worse then what it actually is. It just makes my excitement for a post comp cheat meal that much more exciting to think of. I am considering making a little notebook full of delicious foods. LOL. Or..what I could do, it just use Pinterest and share some yummy recipes on here that I want to try in the future (I haven't posted a recipe in such a long time!).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Bt that's for another time...right now, I want to talk about my passion. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">ANIMALS!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Dogs, for this post, to be specific.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">WHO doesn't love dogs?? And if you don't, you have serious issues...as some of you may know, I have two of the sweetest puplets EVER. They're names are Lou'e and Maggie-Moo. Both are Yorkshire <strike>Terrors</strike> Terriers and hold the key to my heart (other then my man, lol). They have opened so many doors for me, believe it or not and through them I have met some incredible people as well. I have learned SO much through them as well regarding puppy-mills, what goes on out East and the general disregard, abandonment and neglect these animals face day in and out through the hands of people. Us. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">How can we allow such innocent beings suffer because we decide we are going to turn the other cheek? It's not right...and something needs to be done. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">That's why I try as often as I can to pledge for dogs that need rescues in high-kill shelters, donate to dogs in need, and spread awareness of what goes on annually in Yulin and even in your own background with the abuse and neglect these animals face day in and day out. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">That's why I was pretty excited to stumble upon this site that I'm about to share with you - not is it only ALL ABOUT DOGS but there are a TUN of accessories and clothes (what girl doesn't like dogs, clothes and accessories, come on?!) that when purchased, proceeds go to pups in needs. So you will feed a dog (or more!) by the purchases you make on this site!! I think that's a pretty fantastic idea and decided to share with you some of the awesome stuff I came across that I am eager to purchase and I'm sure you will too. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Who doesn't want to look fabulous and help dogs in need at the same time??</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So here is an awesome list for PERFECT Christmas gifts for that dog lover this year. :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">PS. Everything below is linked to the website, so just click on the title of the item and it'll take you straight there. :)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #990000; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: x-large;"><b>The Dog Lover's Christmas WishList</b></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="http://iheartdogs.com/product/heart-paw-adjustable-bangle-bracelet/" target="_blank">My Dog is Close to my Heart - Adjustable Bangle Bracelet - $12.99 USD</a><br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">THIS BRACELET FEEDS 5 SHELTER DOGS!</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Keep your dog close to your heart. This simple, yet elegant bracelet symbolizes how closely we hold our furry family members to our heart.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Every time you glance down at your bracelet, you'll remember that close bond, and the shelter dogs you helped by your purchase!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Bracelet is crafted with durable Zinc alloy and plated in either gold or silver.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="http://iheartdogs.com/product/stop-yulin-tear/" target="_blank">Stop Yulin Tear - $22.99-$24.99 USD</a></span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">THIS</span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"> PRODUCT PROVIDES 7 DAYS OF FOOD AND CARE FOR A DOG RESCUED FROM THE MEAT TRADE</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Note: Design is intentionally distressed, and features fading and scratch marks</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">iHeartDogs has partnered with GreaterGood to raise awareness and funds for dogs rescued from Yulin. Each purchase will help provide nutritious food & care for these precious pups!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Please remember to sign our <a href="http://iheartdogs.com/petition/end-the-yulin-dog-meat-festival/" target="_blank">Stop Yulin Petition</a><span id="goog_227440179"></span><span id="goog_227440180"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a>!</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qEVHlv22sa8/WEBMm9JhmxI/AAAAAAAAc3k/2Q38sOChwgcgsx0AigAGiRJc0f1R1gk_gCLcB/s1600/Black-HOODIES-29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qEVHlv22sa8/WEBMm9JhmxI/AAAAAAAAc3k/2Q38sOChwgcgsx0AigAGiRJc0f1R1gk_gCLcB/s640/Black-HOODIES-29.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="http://iheartdogs.com/product/christmas-yorkie-hoodie/" target="_blank">Christmas Yorkie Hoodie - $39.99-$43.99 USD</a><br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">THIS PRODUCT FEEDS 15 SHELTER DOGS</span></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ECHWvyawasA/WEBR0kEdjkI/AAAAAAAAc30/DkaH3_hyq94H-hZgYQP4cJ3qwVIir4zMACLcB/s1600/Black-49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ECHWvyawasA/WEBR0kEdjkI/AAAAAAAAc30/DkaH3_hyq94H-hZgYQP4cJ3qwVIir4zMACLcB/s640/Black-49.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="http://iheartdogs.com/product/heart-dog-usa/" target="_blank">Heart Dog USA - $22.99-$24.99 USD</a><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;"><br />THIS PRODUCT FEEDS 8 SHELTER DOGS</span></b></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jKmeItDRMBE/WEBSTxOjInI/AAAAAAAAc34/CaEwVe-OJBoK5gbgtTPb6R-kysT0ZOW5wCLcB/s1600/My-Drug-of-Choice-Dog-Royal-Blue1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jKmeItDRMBE/WEBSTxOjInI/AAAAAAAAc34/CaEwVe-OJBoK5gbgtTPb6R-kysT0ZOW5wCLcB/s640/My-Drug-of-Choice-Dog-Royal-Blue1.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="http://iheartdogs.com/product/my-drug-of-choice/" target="_blank">My Drug of Choice - $22.99-$24.99 USD</a><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>THIS PRODUCT FEEDS 8 SHELTER DOGS</b></span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u41QQYGsDbU/WEBTExOLHZI/AAAAAAAAc4E/-l_ifCd3gX00ztHmZEmjAHL5iuNUPlDXgCLcB/s1600/Alt2-Square.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u41QQYGsDbU/WEBTExOLHZI/AAAAAAAAc4E/-l_ifCd3gX00ztHmZEmjAHL5iuNUPlDXgCLcB/s640/Alt2-Square.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="http://iheartdogs.com/product/thin-blue-line-3-stack-bead-bracelets-with-black-paw-charm/" target="_blank">Thin Blue Line 3 Stack Bracelet: Helps Provide Medical Care for Injured K9 Police Dogs - $14.99 USD</a><br /><br /><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>20% OF SALES ARE DONATED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL CARE FOR INJURED K9 POLICE DOGS</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">When a K9 police dog is injured in the line of duty, good medical care is not always a given. Municipal budgets are often insufficient to provide these canine heroes with the care they deserve. In many situations, especially when the injuries are severe, cities turn to citizens to fundraise for the medical care for an injured K9.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Our goal with this product was to create a symbolic way to show our support for our brave men, women, and four-legged police force, and to fundraise for these injured K9 heroes. They fought for us, now let's fight for them!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Funds provided as a grant to benefiting organizations through GreaterGood.org.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.56px;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Approximately 8.5″, unstretched.</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.56px;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Made from faux satin-polished stone</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UJZ15pE-Gtk/WEBT63cO_3I/AAAAAAAAc4I/9Ed01wpz2aAsawg3aCipFl5gydZDSbohACLcB/s1600/Front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UJZ15pE-Gtk/WEBT63cO_3I/AAAAAAAAc4I/9Ed01wpz2aAsawg3aCipFl5gydZDSbohACLcB/s640/Front.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="http://iheartdogs.com/product/my-pet-is-home-alone-double-sided-embroidery-canvas-key-chain/" target="_blank">My Pet is Home Alone Key Chain - $6.99 USD</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Have you ever considered what would happen if you became injured away from your home? How would rescue workers or hospital staff know that you have pets alone at home? How would they notify a friend or family member to come care for your pets? Even if they did notify family, have you designated a specific person to come care for your pets if you become incapacitated?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Please consider carrying one of these keychains. The peace of mind in knowing that your pets will be taken care of is priceless!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">PLEASE CONSIDER PURCHASING KEYCHAINS FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY WITH PETS! Nothing says I’m thinking of you more than showing care for their pets.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">As with all of our products, each purchase will help animal shelters provide nutritious food for dogs waiting for their forever homes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Keychain measures approximately 4.5″ x 1″. We recommend using a ball point gel pen to write the phone number of your emergency pet contact, as permanent marker may bleed.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xXIbxdnZB1E/WEBUZPu4OKI/AAAAAAAAc4M/KXQ9MDyc4YMRy-RvjboRHy6SuVvn3E8iQCLcB/s1600/Main-1-1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xXIbxdnZB1E/WEBUZPu4OKI/AAAAAAAAc4M/KXQ9MDyc4YMRy-RvjboRHy6SuVvn3E8iQCLcB/s640/Main-1-1024x1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="http://iheartdogs.com/product/cutout-heart-paw-adjustable-ring/" target="_blank">Always by my Heart Adjustable Ring - $12.99 USD</a><br /><br /><b><span style="color: #38761d;">THIS PRODUCT HELPS FEED 10 SHELTER DOGS</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Help feed 10 shelter dogs, and keep thoughts of your beloved pet close to your heart all at once. The worst part of the day is leaving your fur baby behind while you go and bring home the bacon-flavored snacks. Now you can keep your pup close to your heart, always, with this adjustable ring. The adorable silhouette of a paw will remind you of your furry friend throughout the day, while the heart represents the hearts of all the shelter dogs you’ve helped feed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Material: Silver Plated</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Diameter: 2 cm / 0.79″</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Adjustable ring – One Size fits most! (fits sizes 5-9)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Don't you guys just love it? And there is WAYYYYYYYY more where that came from! It's insane all the great things they have on that site and where the money goes to the dogs is just so awesome! The key tag I realized after the fact is unavailable....but my top three would definitely be the Stop Yulin Tshirt, the Yorkie hoodie and the Always by my Heart adjustable ring. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">What would you guys pick? Do you think sites like this are a good idea or do you still wonder if all the money goes to the charity? I have faith in the human race where I would think that dogs do get the benefit out of something like this at the end of the day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I am definitely going to save up some pennies for my top three. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Oh and don't forget to sign the STOP YULIN petition! Link in the shirt description!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-58298015122438023682016-11-30T09:17:00.002-05:002016-11-30T09:18:41.544-05:00::*::lil:update::*::<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I always allow a million years to go by between posts...but honestly at this point it's allowed. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Lots of new changes afoot, I think I may have mentioned before that I want to get my personal training certification and as much as I wanted to do that before the end of the year it's most likely going to be in the beginning of the New Year since right now I'm training for a bodybuilding competition...yes, that's right!! I am finally going after what I've always wanted to try. I hummed and haahed over it for the longest time but I finally decided to jump in with both feet. So here I am, on week 4 and seriously craving chocolate right now. Lol. </span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">But...with that being said, it's going to be quite a process...especially since I don't have all the time in the world to spend at the gym (although I do go a minimum of 5x a week) - my diet and nutrition is quite strict - the first week was so BRUTAL. So so painfully brutal (LOL!!) but I am beginning to get the hang of it and am excited to increase calories and the intensity of my workouts. Of course there are days where I really couldn't be bothered, with anything!! But I push myself to doing it. Especially since I have a coach now that is holding me accountable. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I will be giving updates on how it's going. So far I'm on week 4 and it's becoming second nature. Dinner time is always the most difficult and same with weekends because I always indulged in something a little sweet but can't do that now! But that's OK. I'm going to reach my goals and that's all that matters. I will definitely push through. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Today is Wednesday and it's my rest day so I don't have to work out today - which is usually unheard of for me since I trained 6-7x a week before I started this and now my coach suggests two rest days which I am totally OK with but during the week it's sometimes hard to wrap my head around. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Wednesdays I usually get home and crash on the couch and do nothing but I have to be a little more productive even though that's my one night of the week where I don't necessarily have to do anything but I do want to blog more and I also have a million Christmas cards I need to get written up and sent out! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">It's still November but tomorrow is the first day of December!! I am very excited to get super festive...maybe not a whole lot this year regarding baking and such but for sure with Christmas movies/shows, music, decorations and just spending quality time with friends and especially family. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">What do you guys have planned for this Christmas? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-41234745221597615902016-11-04T08:23:00.003-04:002019-11-18T12:21:54.353-05:00::*::grateful::*::<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">With the help of a friend, I have come to a stark realization that despite my saying that I am grateful for things, I'm really not. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">Okay, that sounded completely wrong...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">I am VERY grateful about things...but I need to let it be known. For example, Travis has been there for me through thick and thin - I really need to give the guy more credit. And I also need to tell him a lot more how much I really appreciate him. It isn't fair if we coast through our relationship together without truly appreciating what the other has to offer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">This doesn't just have to apply to relationships, it can be friendships, family relationships as well - even a relationship between a furry friend. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">You can be grateful for pasta, transportation, your favorite mascara, the sunrise & sunset, the internet, electricity, running water....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">The possibilities are really endless. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">But it's also important to let the world know what it is you're grateful for. You can't just harbor those feelings inside and not say anything - that's pointless! So I know that I've done gratitude lists in the past...but I also just quit after a list or two...I think it's important for us to do this every single day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">Now I know that many people dislike the Kardashians {immensely} but there is one thing that I used to see on their show that I could appreciate and that was when they sat at the dinner table they would tell of a low point and high point to their day. They would call it the Peak and the Pit...or the Pit & the Peak...whatever way you choose to go. I think that's important to do as well..instead of always being a negative nancy and complaining about how our days were crap and could have gone better we should also embrace the positive. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">It also teaches us that the good really does outweigh the bad...because no matter how shitty your day got, it always got better...and I'm sure you felt loads better after realizing the peak of your day than the pit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">It's a great chance to put some perspective into our lives.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I really cannot get enough of these two. I love the quote "Dogs have a way of finding the people who need them...and filling an emptiness we didn't even know we had". When I first got Lou'e he totally opened me up to an entirely new world of love and enlightenment. When Moo came in I didn't think my heart could grow any bigger but it did. These two are my lifelines. I love them so much and am so grateful to have them. They basically own ME! Lol. And not a day goes by where they don't make me laugh or smile and I think that's incredibly important. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Days like this.<br />Isn't this what we live for?<br />We finally started going to the beach this past year. It was pretty amazing...I mean, after nearly 10 years of being together we just started going to the beach??? Lol. Yea, I know. Almost every weekend we would go up to Long Point and lay in the sun and swim every chance we got. There were so many laughs...and so many great memories. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">After battling quite a bit in my last few years...the gym is what has kept me sane. I don't think that I will ever stop going. For sure I have weeks where I take a break to give myself a physical and mental period of time where I can just be lazy and eat everything in my fridge {although this doesn't always leave me feeling good}, I never regret going to the gym. It's definitely my therapy at this point. And one which I'd like to take to the next level.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CoxdHbVvmBc/WBoKAYM3pkI/AAAAAAAAc10/7cu5scxP6NIdF-BbMsWTHwQhviy8PUTFwCLcB/s1600/11-2-2016%2B11-43-14%2BAM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="397" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CoxdHbVvmBc/WBoKAYM3pkI/AAAAAAAAc10/7cu5scxP6NIdF-BbMsWTHwQhviy8PUTFwCLcB/s400/11-2-2016%2B11-43-14%2BAM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I am finally a driver. Yes, 30 years of age...lol. At least I got it! I never thought that I would get to this point. I never thought that I would ever drive a car..I was way too scared. The anxiety crippled me. But after being coaxed along and finally growing a pair of balls, I did it. I went to driving school, hopped into a car with an instructor and just did it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Now I couldn't imagine life without a car (which by the way, I am beyond grateful to my parents for)...I don't have to wait. No more wasted time!! It was totally worth it. </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">So there you have it! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">What are you guys grateful for today?? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: xx-small;">Happy Friday!!! :) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: x-small;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-36764351771512287202016-11-01T11:02:00.000-04:002016-11-01T11:02:29.396-04:00::*::belated:halloween::*::<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Happy {BELATED} Halloween!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Wow...I can't believe that it's already the first of November! Where has this year gone? SO SO much as happened so far...but nothing we can't touch base on near the end of the year...which is only two months away! So crazy...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I really wanted to get into Fall this year, but just like that *poof* - it has come, and almost gone. Although the Fall foliage is still in full bloom and looking as pretty as ever, it's only a matter of time before all these leaves simultaneously drop to the ground and will soon be covered by that "white stuff". LOL. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">To be quite honest with you, I am very much looking forward to Winter this year...not necessarily the sub-zero temperatures as much as the peacefulness of the snow fall. I am really looking forward to that. I'm not sure why all of a sudden I've got this warmth towards the wintry season. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Maybe it's because of Christmas? I always say I'm going to do Christmas up big every year and hardly ever do. I know for sure that after today...maybe this coming weekend, or next I will be for sure decorating for Christmas! This year I would love to get a REAL tree as well - so that the entire house smells like convivial frosted pine and cinnamon. GAH, I just love that smell. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new", courier, monospace;">With that being said...a lot of people don't work towards any goals during this time because there is so much to do, all these people to see and plans to make for the holiday season, I think we all need to just relax and take it as it is. At least that's what I plan on doing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Instead of waiting for the New Year and all it's resolutions I've decided to start now! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I really want to get my personal training certification this winter...I want to build more muscle and lose the stubborn belly fat {this is a big goal of mine}, I also would like to participate in more Winter sports! As well as learn more about bodybuilding and anatomy and physiology. Lots to do and plan. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Oh and more clean-eating baking too! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Needless to say that the last little while I definitely have not been eating clean at all. But it is what it is, what's the point in beating myself up about it?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So, you just gotta pick yourself back up and try, try again! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So - with that being said...are you guys waiting until the New Year to start on your resolutions and goals? Or are you the kind of person that doesn't care what time of year it is? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span><br />
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-35667239796880874502016-09-06T08:16:00.001-04:002016-09-06T08:16:42.422-04:00::-::massive:update:&:books::-::<div style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>My kind of night...every night. Protein balls & tea. :) </i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Fall is basically here...I mean, it isn't technically Fall just yet but the other day it sure felt like it. I have the candles going, the Fall smells everywhere, splashes of oranges and browns all over the place in our townhome...definitely looking forward to the leaves changing their colours. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">That is definitely one thing I really miss about our old apartment...the {fake} fireplace that we had...and just being able to see all the amazing colours the trees turned into just outside of our window. We have trees at our new place, but of course the view isn't the same. At all. But we are so much happier here, that's for sure. We definitely will never go back into an apartment. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">A lot of things have been going on with us and this year has totally flown by. Travis has lost 99lbs {!!!} and I've lost 35-40lbs {it fluctuates}. We both have some serious goals going on right now and it's going to take incredibly amounts of hard work and dedication. I guess you could say that in a way we are getting comp-ready, if you will. But we don't have any specific competition in mind - we just want to push ourselves to our max and see what we can come up with. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I've been doing two-a-days the last three weeks and I think it's time for a break. I'm not sure if I lost anything, I mean, the scale says that I gained five pounds...but I seriously have got to stop weighing myself. I definitely feel stronger and probably a little leaner...but I know that my biggest obstacle right now is that stubborn belly fat...and I've been doing a lot of research and hear that I simply cannot lose that little last bit of fat and build muscle at the same time. What are your guys' thoughts on that? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This week, I'm going to cut the extra cardio and going to increase my calorie count as well. I am going to eat a lot more and a lot of that being protein and complex carbs. I don't eat too much fat to begin with, so I think I'll be fine there but will be more mindful of my portions. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Just a little before & after. The left being one year ago, and the right being just last week. Same pants, totally different person!</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So it's Labour Day weekend...long weekend...I think it's a long weekend everywhere. But we have been relaxing, especially today. I can't believe that it's already almost 5pm. Ugh. Back to work tomorrow. Booooo. Back to reality!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Saturday and Sunday were super busy with cleaning, running errands, gym and meal prep. I did the last bit of meal prep this morning...and have been journaling and trying to unwind for the afternoon. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I made myself do a HIIT workout this AM which left me sweating. I really didn't feel like it and I probably should have not pushed myself when my body was screaming NO at me, but at least the rest of the day makes up for it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I've always been fighting serious chocolate cravings. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Ugh. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Fall also usually means a lot of NEW things that are being released out there in the material world. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I hear that many people think of Fall as the "new year" - what do you guys thing? I'm not too sure why but Fall is definitely my favorite season {I know, I've said this probably 5,000 times already}. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Fall fashion fatties - what I call the Fall issues of magazines - are usually 300 pages long {usually ads} and I used to get every. single. issue. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I mean, every single one...from Vogue to Elle, all the international issues, W to Allure, InStyle - you name it, I had it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">But, fashion, as much as I still love it...has been put on the backburner for me the last few years. I'm definitely more into the Health & Wellness genre of magazines now as well as recipe magazines too. Oxygen. Muscle & Fitness Hers. Strong. FitnessRx. Etc etc etc. The list goes on and on...those aren't big on the Fall season though, but those are my go-to now. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Books...now books are my forte. No matter what and no matter the genre. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">There are so so so many books out there...I haven't gotten books in the longest time...so you can only imagine my Wish List...it's probably 13 pages long now. LOL. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">There are so many that are slated for release in September and October and quite a few that are out now that I want to share with you. It's always a mixture. There's always a cookbook thrown in there for good measure and we can't forget fiction. Life is so busy and hectic these days that I must escape my life...so fiction is definitely at the top of my list. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I can't wait to be able to curl up on my papasan chair, with the window open, the cool wind blowing in, with some protein balls and a hot mug of tea, candles smelling of pumpkin spice and my puplets curled up around me reading these must-read books. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r00x5k4VaO0/V83VLRnCmKI/AAAAAAAAcxg/Rpyr5MROXmQSOyuQ4n5yI06Tb-Kqcw4fQCLcB/s1600/book01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r00x5k4VaO0/V83VLRnCmKI/AAAAAAAAcxg/Rpyr5MROXmQSOyuQ4n5yI06Tb-Kqcw4fQCLcB/s400/book01.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.ca/dp/0553378384/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1WFOTIC5HF1LX&coliid=I29NXXWWYNRNFX" target="_blank"><b>Astrology for the Soul </b>by <b>Jan Spiller</b></a><br />$17.26 CA<br /><br />I know this one may be quite out of the norm for me, and it is.<br />I have a few acquaintances that have talked frequently of author Jan Spiller and her astrology books...how it's changed their perceptions on life. How amazing...incredible...it is to find out so much about yourself and your core personality but figuring out where the sun and moon aligned on your date of birth and the timing of it. It's said that no one else is just like you...there can't be anyone on the planet right now that has the same planets aligned the way that they did for YOU on that particular time and day.<br />It only happens once every 25,000 years. And I think that's pretty freakin' cool.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2EE7ozkkORs/V83WSiAm3QI/AAAAAAAAcxk/2sZDw9BikqQATgIoplG8uMTIWHDAaBlGACLcB/s400/book02.jpg" width="266" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1771641258/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_img?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1WFOTIC5HF1LX&coliid=IUUQWTKR03KU2" target="_blank"><b>The Obesity Code </b> by <b>Dr. Jason Fung</b></a><br />$22.95 CA<br /><br />Ahh...this is more like me. Lol. I love to read as many books as I possibly can on health, wellness, nutrition, weight loss, fitness, body building, anatomy and physiology...and pretty much anything to do at this point with the human body.<br />This book is not your typical weight loss book...this one delves into the effects of insulin and insulin resistance...and how it can achieve lasting weight loss.<br />I totally think that it's important for people to learn about how the human body actually works before they jump into some fad diet. This will definitely prepare them to make far better choices and set themselves up for success instead of failure.<br />We are all different. Every single body is different. This one explains how hormones play a major part in each persons journey to being healthy and I am eager to see what Dr. Fung has to say about the subject. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vUWo9rqWsQ8/V83XZj8citI/AAAAAAAAcxw/mrdbDumMf5sueCP-f5aCcUm8p8UdK8RLwCLcB/s400/book03.jpg" width="343" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.ca/dp/0553459155/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_img?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1WFOTIC5HF1LX&coliid=I1YLF4EIE9OKVT" target="_blank"><b>I Quit Sugar Cookbook </b>by <b>Sarah Wilson</b></a><br />$29.21 CA<br /><br />Ah man, I am not sure I like Sarah Wilson's face on the cover of this book - LOL. Just being honest...<br />BUT, with that being said, I have heard AMAZING reviews on this cookbook...how it's large and in charge with hundreds of full colour, gorgeous photos and tidbits of information you may feel overwhelmed at {I love that feeling sometimes}. I just love books that are chock-full of information...always great to learn something new and why not learn 306 new, clean and healthy recipes?!<br />Her original book was pretty damn inspiring, so I can't wait to see what this cookbook has in store. :) </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UM2XSyiqOCk/V83_kJRJaOI/AAAAAAAAcyE/pMrYR0E2cwM-byR5qNgtep1GFI89tiRpwCLcB/s400/book04.jpg" width="266" /></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00KVI4HLO/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1WFOTIC5HF1LX&coliid=IUOZBVP0IAU81" target="_blank"><b>Proteinaholic </b>by </a><b><a href="https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00KVI4HLO/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=1WFOTIC5HF1LX&coliid=IUOZBVP0IAU81" target="_blank">Dr. Garth Davis</a> </b>$17.78 CA<br /><br />I was very intrigued when I seen this book in the "recommended for you" section of my Amazon account.<br />To be quite honest with you, lately I've been struggling with the idea surrounding eating meat.<br />I have been doing this bodybuilding thing for a while now and am having a helluva time building muscle...now I know that you don't only get protein from meat, but it would be a helluva lot easier for me to eat meat sometimes to get that protein. Does that make sense? Or am I just sounding like one of those eat-meating naive type of people?<br />Anyways...I want to read more about why it is that meat is killing us. I definitely think this book is the way to go with many 5 star reviews and a read about why meat is killing us. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SXwf0TvpyPc/V84CoHH70lI/AAAAAAAAcyQ/VbEidcxookw3Y0Padagx7I973Ozj_4rsgCLcB/s1600/book05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SXwf0TvpyPc/V84CoHH70lI/AAAAAAAAcyQ/VbEidcxookw3Y0Padagx7I973Ozj_4rsgCLcB/s400/book05.jpg" width="312" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Strong-Curves-Womans-Building-Better/dp/1936608642/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1473106221&sr=8-1&keywords=strong+curves" target="_blank"><b>Strong Curves: A Woman's Guide to Building a Better Butt & Body </b> by <b>Bret Contreras & Kellie Davis</b></a><br />$22.69 CA<br /><br />Okay okay...I know that I said that fiction books were at the top of my list but I also had to add this one, since I am so gung-ho on this fitness journey of mine I want to read as much as I possibly can on all things fitness.<br />This book with over 500 reviews on Amazon is an extensive fitness and nutrition guide by some world-renowned experts for the woman that wants to build strength, endurance and an awesome butt {and body!}. Who wouldn't want a book like this?! </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption"><a href="https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1599906953/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_img?_encoding=UTF8&colid=TR8D2VMHDSJV&coliid=I1BZWJ2SZI99AY" style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; font-size: medium;" target="_blank"><b>Throne of Glass</b> by <b>Sarah J. Maas</b></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>When magic has gone from the world, and a vicious king rules from his throne of glass, an assassin comes to the castle. She does not come to kill, but to win her freedom. If she can defeat twenty-three killers, thieves, and warriors in a competition to find the greatest assassin in the land, she will become the king's champion and be released from prison.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>Her name is Celaena Sardothien.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Not sure if you haven't noticed but I have a bit of an obsession with YA novels and anything to do with a Game of Thrones-esque undertone or a dystopian world. So this book is definitely up my alley...oh, and the main characters usually always have to be kick-ass chicks. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Check and check. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Queen-Tearling-Novel-Erika-Johansen/dp/006229038X/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&coliid=I1NE5FCKK3GI7W&colid=TR8D2VMHDSJV&qid=&sr=" target="_blank"><b>The Queen of the Tearling</b> by <b>Erika Johansen</b></a><br />$14.19 CA<br /><br />First of all, what a gorgeous cover...I'm not going to lie when I say that I do tend to judge a book by it's cover...who doesn't, really? I just love how magickal this book and story seem and by reading the description of it, it sounds exactly like that.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><i><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">On her nineteenth birthday, Princess Kelsea Raleigh Glynn, raised in exile, sets out on a perilous journey back to the castle of her birth to ascend her rightful throne. Plain and serious, a girl who loves books and learning, Kelsea bears little resemblance to her mother, the vain and frivolous Queen Elyssa. But though she may be inexperienced and sheltered, Kelsea is not defenseless: Around her neck hangs the Tearling sapphire, a jewel of immense magical power; and accompanying her is the Queen’s Guard, a cadre of brave knights led by the enigmatic and dedicated Lazarus. Kelsea will need them all to survive a cabal of enemies who will use every weapon—from crimson-caped assassins to the darkest blood magic—to prevent her from wearing the crown.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;">Just a little blurb here....more can be found on the link above {the title of the book}.<br />Definitely looks like this would be a GOOD read. </span></i></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CMV4Xc8RbUY/V84HpUvTz0I/AAAAAAAAcy0/PUdvDwt21mglx5bpR065ao-Dj_j1xphMwCLcB/s1600/book09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CMV4Xc8RbUY/V84HpUvTz0I/AAAAAAAAcy0/PUdvDwt21mglx5bpR065ao-Dj_j1xphMwCLcB/s400/book09.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Three-Dark-Crowns-Kendare-Blake/dp/0062564129/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1473120657&sr=8-1" target="_blank"><b>Three Dark Crowns </b>by <b>Kendare Blake</b></a><br />$15.59 CA<br /><br />Another cover that is quite intriguing! This book has been slated for release on the 20th of September and has a lot of hype surrounding it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>In every generation on the island of Fennbirn, a set of triplets is born—three queens, all equal heirs to the crown and each possessor of a coveted magic. Mirabella is a fierce elemental, able to spark hungry flames or vicious storms at the snap of her fingers. Katharine is a poisoner, one who can ingest the deadliest poisons without so much as a stomachache. Arsinoe, a naturalist, is said to have the ability to bloom the reddest rose and control the fiercest of lions.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>But becoming the Queen Crowned isn’t solely a matter of royal birth. Each sister has to fight for it. And it’s not just a game of win or lose . . . it’s life or death. The night the sisters turn sixteen, the battle begins.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>The last queen standing gets the crown.</i></span></div>
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<tr><td><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hMhMUNYnans/V84IfL755OI/AAAAAAAAczA/ocoNulpL_-Q1oiOFqgG6zvjU8uyJ4714ACLcB/s1600/book010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hMhMUNYnans/V84IfL755OI/AAAAAAAAczA/ocoNulpL_-Q1oiOFqgG6zvjU8uyJ4714ACLcB/s400/book010.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Thousandth-Floor-Katharine-McGee/dp/0062418599/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1473120678&sr=8-1&keywords=the+thousandth+floor" target="_blank"><b style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">The Thousandth Floor </b><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">by </span><b style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Katharine McGee</b></a><br /><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">$19.80 CA</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">And last but not least...</span><br /><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>New York City as you’ve never seen it before. A thousand-story tower stretching into the sky. A glittering vision of the future, where anything is possible—if you want it enough.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Welcome to Manhattan, 2118.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>A hundred years in the future, New York is a city of innovation and dreams. But people never change: everyone here wants something…and everyone has something to lose.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Leda Cole’s flawless exterior belies a secret addiction—to a drug she never should have tried and a boy she never should have touched.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Eris Dodd-Radson’s beautiful, carefree life falls to pieces when a heartbreaking betrayal tears her family apart.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Rylin Myers’s job on one of the highest floors sweeps her into a world—and a romance—she never imagined…but will her new life cost Rylin her old one?</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Watt Bakradi is a tech genius with a secret: he knows everything about everyone. But when he’s hired to spy by an upper-floor girl, he finds himself caught up in a complicated web of lies.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>And living above everyone else on the thousandth floor is Avery Fuller, the girl genetically designed to be perfect. The girl who seems to have it all—yet is tormented by the one thing she can never have.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Debut author Katharine McGee has created a breathtakingly original series filled with high-tech luxury and futuristic glamour, where the impossible feels just within reach. But in this world, the higher you go, the farther there is to fall….</i></span></div>
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-32008931327698342692016-08-15T13:59:00.000-04:002016-08-15T13:59:42.636-04:00::autumnal:bliss::<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Fuzzy feelings are starting to come up for me...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Which could only mean...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">THAT AUTUMN IS AROUND THE CORNER!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Yes, that's right. If you know me well, you know that I am obsessed with Fall...and not in your typical "first world problem white girl with the thigh high boots and pumpkin spiced latte in hand" sorta way...but more in the...actually, why don't we make a list? I am loving listography (if that even a word?!) so...I'll tell you what it is about Fall that I am absolutely in love with...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Because to tell you the truth, it never used to be my favorite season. I would always choose Spring or Summer over Fall or Winter any day. But now, I just love everything about it and look forward to it like craaaazy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This list is in no particular order.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*-*Halloween Shows*-*</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This means Home Improvement, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Fresh Prince of Bel Air...the list could go on and on and on...just love it when the Halloween shows air (and don't even get me started on Christmas either!). I am definitely going to get my fill of Halloween shows this year...mark my words. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">And let's not forget...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*-*Halloween Movies*-*</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Of course we can't forget about the silver screen!<br />My favorite??? Hocus Pocus of course! I will watch this EVERY SINGLE DAY...or have it on in the background on repeat while I'm doing other things around the house...other favorites as well are Practical Magic, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Edward Scissorhands and Sleepy Hollow. Of course there are the horror movies too, which leads us to...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*-*Fear Fest*-*<br />Love AMCs Fear Fest! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">It's just a marathon of scary movies and although there are some that I'm not too interested in {such as Tremors} I can't get enough of Jeepers Creepers and the likes of those kind of movies. I can get into Friday the 13th and Halloween...but last year they sorta overplayed them. Hopefully this year there are a bunch of new ones. Fear Fest also r</span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">eminds me of when my family comes to visit too...we would have marathons and my Mom would make delicious and hearty stew and it would be quite cool out with drizzle...ahh...memories. Which leads me to...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The last couple of years my family always comes to visit during this time...so I now correlate Autumn with quality family time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Going on walks/hikes, cooking together, relaxing and watching movies, and of course shopping!! :)<br />Always a great time when family is around.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*-*Fall Fashion*-*</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Okay, I'm a girl...I had to include this one! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I definitely love anything that looks, smells or feels like the word WARMTH. So I am definitely into all the chunky knits, wool and faux fur. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I love the Autumnal colours of the rainbow ranging in from browns and reds to greens and oranges. Who doesn't? Fall colors are pretty damn magnificent. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*-*Fall Smells*-*</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I am obsessed with creams, lotions, perfumes, EDPs - the entire shebang (!!) that resemble a pumpkin or cinnamon apple pie baking in the oven. I want to smell like a bakery!! I am unsure of where my newfound love has come from for sugary and chocolately treats...but yes, I have a bit of an obsession. It's kind of hard to find really good Fall smells, or anything that smells pastry-like without getting that off-chemical undertone. Much like when you are trying to find a good coconut lotion and it's impossible to find!! By the way, if any of you have some amazing coconut products please fill me in! Anyways, the closest I can get to my beloved scents are during Fall season at Bath & Bodyworks. They come out with some amazing Fall scents that are to die for! Not only that but I also recently found this amazing Caramel & Cinnamon body cream from a Polish grocery store and it smells incredible! My Grandma even uses it herself!! That in itself is pretty awesome. ;) She has good taste!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*-*Fall Weather*-*</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I am a rain kinda girl. If I had to pick between rain or shine, I would most likely choose rain because I love it. And I find rain to be ethereal. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">One of the reasons why I love rain particularly in the Fall is the way that the clouds look during this season. Usually they are white on top while their underbellies are pregnant with rain casting a dark and ominous umbra. I can just imagine it now as I sit here, looking out the window, knowing that it's sweater-weather out there...quite cool, but when the sun peaks it it fills you with warmth. Of course, at any moment those clouds could very well let loose and you'd be soaked to the bone in a matter of seconds...but..that's just what makes Fall weather perfect. It's unpredictable and that is what is perfect and wonderful about Mother Nature.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">*-*Ontario*-*</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">My home province is pretty breathtaking during the Fall and I am sure many are jealous of this. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Just a simple Google search will show the resplendent trees and nature scenes of gorgeous Ontario in all it's glory.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Which means finding new spots to go hiking {and take a myriad of selfies, LOL}.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">That's all for my Fall post...I mean, there is so much more...but this post has taken me THREE days to write up and finish...so I think it's time for it and I to part ways. Lol. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Of course there will be more Fall posts...because, as you can tell, I am obsessed!! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-39216928676557775892016-08-09T11:57:00.001-04:002016-08-09T11:57:13.953-04:00::end:of:vaycay::<br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I wrote this over the weekend...on my phone....and since I'm trying to blog more decided that I can't <b>not</b> share...so here it is. More posts to come! :)</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Two more days of vacation left. Sigh. How depressing that can be! I mean, I am happy to get back into my regular routine but how blissful it was to be able to do whatever I wanted!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Travis and I were both able to rest and relax together. That meant a lot of beach time, gaming and gym! Yes! We went to the gym every day! Sometimes as early as 6:30! I think we missed one gym day out of 14 days so far. But we definitely feel great for it! I also had my first cheat meal in a while yesterday which was ice cream. Nomnom. But....it's back to reality. It's the weekend after all and there has to be a tun of laundry and meal prep for the next 48 hours.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">I also decided that today I am going to measure myself. My body that is.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">I have a confession to make.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">I weigh myself daily.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Every. Single. Day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">I know so many people think it's bad. And I agree to a certain extent but at the same time when I first started this fitness journey a year ago now it really held me accountable. I was able to figure out things that were working for me and weren't.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Now that I am at my lowest weight since the age of 18 I know that the scale isn't going to go down any further, but instead will go up because I am lifting weights like crazy and building that muscle up. And as many of you have heard...muscle weighs more then fat. Which is great! I love it. But the flip side to that coin is how to rewrite my brain to think the same. Because for me to see the scale going up can be incredibly discouraging.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Just this morning I weighed myself. After an entire week of clean eating and only some treats yesterday and I supposedly gained </span><b>4lbs</b><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><b>!</b> How is that even possible?! It isn't. And I know deep in my gut that it's water weight and all that crap but I understand how so many women can get discouraged and who knows maybe a pound or two of that gain is pure muscle from pounding it out at the gym for the last two weeks straight!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Regardless, that's my goal today. I am going to share with you my measurements that I took exactly one year ago and what I measure out today.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">This past year has been pretty incredible. I have done and accomplished so much. I should be proud of myself but I am still working on that self love. :) I finished and graduated school, I finished drivers training and got my license (and a car!), I lost 45lbs and became a fitness fanatic....and I've gotten so much more work at work which is keeping me pretty happy and busy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">There are many more things I would like to accomplish before the year is out and will definitely keep everyone posted on some of my big plans and goals.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Right now though, I am sitting at my doctors as I have been fighting a cold for the last week and it's draining the life out of me. Not fun considering you're on your last few vacation days. I really wanted to go and beach it up but I'm torn between the surf and the sand and my couch and faux fur blankets in sub zero air conditioned temperatures. Lol. I'm broke anyways so maybe just an R&R day of doing absolutely nothing is just what I need.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Ugh. Where is my doctor?! Why are doctors always so late!!? The light turned off in this room twice here. As its on a timer. Wtf.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Anyways...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">-S.</span><span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-67060701997703811362016-06-21T09:30:00.004-04:002016-06-21T09:30:58.007-04:00::*::back:at:it::*::<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">No point in making up excuses. It's been FOREVER! But LOTS has been going on...lots o lots o lots. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I've pretty much gotten to my goal of 125lbs. That was my goal...but there is more to go...which makes that a total of 37lbs that I've lost from October/November ish to about March...I've been maintaining 125-130 between April until now, I believe. I'm trying to build up muscle and eat healthy but I've sorta fallen off the wagon. My eating has become a tad disordered, so I'm really trying to get back on track and trying not to be so hard on myself. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">For example, I ate a shit tun of ice cream yesterday....I weighed in and apparently gained like, 4lbs....am I going to hate on myself for it? Well, I already did...but I've gotten it out of my system {until next weekend?? ugh} and am going to work extra hard this week and not fall {again!!}. But, we are all human...it happens, right? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I also got my driver's license! This is BIG for me...since I'm 30 now and just recently began driving...so it's week 3 now of driving on my own after passing my driver's test on the 3rd of June ({woot woot!} and it's going well so far...but I don't want to jinx anything. LOL. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Anyways...since I am just getting back into the swing of things, I figured we would do a little questionnaire or survey type thing, just to make things fun and light....I have tried a bunch of recipes the last little while that I needed to share with you guys, book reviews and much much more! I figure too that I will share some of my meal plans and prep and workouts as well. :) More posts on goals that I've working towards and a slew of other things....a new development too...makeup! I've become obsessed all over again when my sister recently got me some awesome NYX stuff for my birthday. So be on the lookout for reviews on that as well. :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-84048526443844508332016-04-28T14:17:00.001-04:002016-04-28T14:17:21.650-04:00::*::an:update::*::<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">It has been far too long little blog!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I barely even have enough time to myself! Let alone post on here, which I feel terribly guilty about - I usually do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But the last few months have gone by so quickly - and so much has gone on...little and big. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">First of all...we've moved! Yup! It took the perfect townhouse for us to move...and you know how they say tha tsometimes you gotta take that chance? Well, we did...and couldn't be happier! I really do love our new place and I remember second-guessing my decision in the months leading up to the move...wondering if I would be happy there or not...but I am. And I am super glad that we did.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">The puppies are loving it too. ;) And of course, so is my man. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Other then that, I have begun driving! I know I know...29 years old and not driving! I held myself back for all these years...driving isn't so bad....it's still hella nerve-wracking but I've probably driven a total of 5 times. I am so glad too that my driving instructor pushed me to go onto busier streets...or else I would still be going around in circles in parking lots and that's SO boring! So...I've been driving around...but it's sorta at a stand-still at times becuase we own a manual vehicle and I don't geel comfortable driving manual at this point. This weekend we are hoping to find a deal to rent an automatic vehicle so that I can drive. :) Pretty good plan, I think </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I will also need to book my road test pretty soon and then when I pass (not if! lol) then I will be able to drive on my own. So I am looking forward to that...I am still very nervous when I get behind the wheel, but I do know that with practice it will get better. Many people tell me it is life-changing...I certainly hope it is! Lol. :P </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I also have a bunch of goals and plans for the remainder of this year. It feels like I am at a stand-still even though I got a lot on the go. But that will all change and I am definitely eager for the warmer weather and trying new things and seeing more places. :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I will be sure to keep you all posted on what is going on along with some pictures. :) There are a lot of recipes that I will be needing to share with you too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So that is just my little update! More thorough updates to come! ;) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-71854798205638696552016-03-19T19:26:00.002-04:002016-03-19T19:26:47.576-04:00::*::random:random::*::<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We arrrreeee moving!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Did I already mention that before? Well...I'm telling you again if I already did. T-minus 5 days! I was very excited in the beginning...lost interest, got stressed out, and now I am excited all over again! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Overall, things have been going really well! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Since I am obsessed with this lists thing I am going to list all the new things going on with me since the beginning of January!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">1. I lost 30+ pounds! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Yes...that's right...thirty pounds is a heck of a lot! But it had to be done...I am feeling lots better for it, but it's not to say that I still have many more goals. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Which leads me to also being...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">2. A heck of a lot stronger!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I can do 15 burpee's in a row! I remember back in August when I started going to the gym and going to classes that I could barely....BARELY do 3-5 in a row...let alone 15!! They're freakin' hard! Not only that but I can do 10 legit push-ups...I can left a lot more. I can squat til the cows come home and even do some with weights..I can also leg press 210lbs! My heaviest back in the day was 135lbs! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">3. I still have a pooch, but I ain't letting it slow me down. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">4. I am a registered holistic nutritionist!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">5. I drove! I actually drove around with my bestie today! I did my driver's training classes and now just need to get behind a wheel. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">6. We are moving!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">7. I am a lot busier at work and movin' on up! I'm not going to get into too many details on that because it probably wouldn't interest any of you, but this is something I definitely am optimistic about. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So yea! It's been soooo busy....packing is pretty much all done...just need to do some moving this Thursday....and Friday! And then we have a long weekend...and I'll be taking some time off work as well to unpack and settle in {especially help the babies settle in}. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Oh and my 30th birthday is coming up! How crazy!?! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Yes, LOTS going on....</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Lot's to look forward to! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">That's my update! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-67072772314939899862016-02-19T07:58:00.000-05:002016-02-25T20:44:33.814-05:00::*::52 Lists::*::<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G7TWOas-mPg/VsTCRxOwvmI/AAAAAAAActM/Sr_kGQhea4g/s1600/moorea_52listsbook_18_1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G7TWOas-mPg/VsTCRxOwvmI/AAAAAAAActM/Sr_kGQhea4g/s640/moorea_52listsbook_18_1024x1024.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">People say that moving is one of the most stressful times in one's life that one has to undergo. I guess it's only as stressful as you make it for yourself, am I right? What if you move a gajillion times?!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">So far, the stress is at a minimum but it's possible that that is because I'm not allowing it to get to the point where I might lose my freakin' mind. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">I used to do that a lot...I had the tendency to magnify minute problems into gargantuan ones. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">I don't think I wasn't bored as much as I didn't have the means necessary to just deal with life's problems all that well at the time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">I'm trying to make a conscious effort to carve out time for myself at the end of the day - and I do this usually by taking a nightly bubble bath every day, even if it's five minutes. I know that it might be a bit of a waste, but it's honestly what keeps me sane at this point. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">Yesterday, I began to write again...my BFF; Bee's - got me the "52 Lists Project" book...honestly, what you're technically supposed to do {I guess} is go through each list, each week. I went on a rampage and probably did 20 lists. LOL! I didn't finish them all, but I began quite a few of them...and honestly, I felt great afterwards. I personally feel that it also helps with realizing the little things in life that you're grateful for.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">I definitely recommend this book, I'm already thinking about it and wanting to fill out MORE lists! But, will save that for before bed - to destress and decompress. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">BUT, I will do one list with you guys right now! One of the lists that I practically completed easily yesterday. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">I don't think there are any "rules" as to how you fill out your OWN journal...that's why I don't mind so much that I did a bunch yesterday...with that being said...I'll be one sad puppy once I'm done all the lists...but at the same time, I can revisit it again after six months and do it all over again and see the changes, if any. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">I really am super excited about continuing filling out this little book {and it's super pretty to go through too}, definitely have to give props to Moorea Seal..wish I had thought of it! But hey...that doesn't mean that we can't do our own lists too, right?!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">PS. You can do as few...or as many points as you want...I'll go until I've exhausted myself out of ideas. </span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">:) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">~ List Your Greatest Comforts ~</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* a dog's sigh * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* a clean bed, freshly washed sheets *</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* cuddles with my puppies * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* cuddles with my man! * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* homemade rosol {chicken noodle soup} *</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* warming tea *</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* a piping-hot cup of coffee with a flavor shot *</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* pasta or mashed potatoes *</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* watching the snow fall *</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* a large knit sweater *</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* a faux fur, or heavy blanket *</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* a cat's purr *</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* a {my} big comfy couch * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* bear hugs from my man *</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* the cool side of a pillow *</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* a bubble bath * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* blanket scarves *</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* a massage * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* twinkle lights * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* books, particularly The Hunter's Moon *</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* lounge or New Age music always on in the background * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* the soft glow of candles or hurricane lights * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* anything with cinnamon * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* delicious smelling body creams {gingerbread latte!} *</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* warm towels * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* walking barefoot * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* just randomly finding a spot at home and laying on the floor * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* fresh baked bread with butter * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* the sound of heavy rain * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* the sound of thunder * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* when the furnace kicks on * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* tanning booths {I know it's terrible, but I can't help it!} * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* music by The Police, Sting, Bryan Adams or The Corrs * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* dark chocolate with almonds *<br />* comforting bear hugs from my family * </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">* my Mom's scarves *</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">{Images from Google}</span></span></div>
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-76413330285706039522016-02-05T10:52:00.002-05:002016-02-05T10:52:25.047-05:00::*::protein protein protein::*::<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Do you believe when they say that your taste-buds change every seven years? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I could never fully grasp the concept of that until quite recently. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I'll fill you in on a little secret that many people in the past would despise me for. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">HATED.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">SWEETS.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Like, legit...didn't like em AT ALL. The pantry could be filled with chocolates, the freezer overwhelmed with ice cream and cheese cakes, there could be cake on the counter and cookies on the table and all that I thought of was..."meh". </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">If I had to choose between a bowl of mashed potatoes and a chocolate bar - pass me the fork and add a little gravy, baby!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">But...the last few months, something infinitesimal has shifted.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I could quite literally describe it as waking up one morning and thinking to myself, "Dear God...I really could eat a pie for breakfast!!"...and the rest...is history.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">AM.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">OBSESSED.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">WITH.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">SWEETS.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Unfortunately, whilst in the midst of training, I am unable to gorge myself on these little {or colossal} sugary delights. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Insert big sad face here. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Therefore, I am on a mission...when am I ever NOT on a mission? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I am going to find the most delicious protein bars that are sooooo good that it feels bad to be eating them! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I'm never one to completely deprive myself by the way {my Turtle gorging the other day can attest to that} but treating yourself IS important. It's all about balance!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Here's a recipe for you guys to try that is absolutely DELICIOUS and can also be found on the <a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2013/08/29/quick-n-easy-no-bake-protein-bars/" target="_blank">Oh She Glows</a> site! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Let me know what you think and if you've tried these, or want to try them...you honestly can't beat peanut butter and chocolate though. Although next time I think I am going to eat some walnuts or pecans for an extra added omega-3-laden crunch!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">PS. Did I mention you don't have to bake these? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">You're welcome. ;) </span></div>
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<span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;">Quick'n Easy No Bake Protein Bars</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: medium;">These no-bake bars are thrown together in minutes and make the perfect snack to store in the freezer for a quick burst of energy. Feel free to use sunflower seed butter to make these nut-free. I used an unsweetened/unflavoured protein powder, so if you are using a sweetened protein powder, you will likely have to reduce the liquid sweetener (and make up for the lack of liquid by adding some non-dairy milk). Play around with it if necessary and aim for a cookie dough texture. You can also roll the dough into balls and add in chocolate chips if you don't wish to make them into bar form.</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: 'courier new', courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;">Ingredients:</b></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">1.5 cups gluten-free rolled oats, blended into a flour</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">1/2 cup unsweetened/unflavoured vegan protein powder (I use Sunwarrior Warrior Blend Natural)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">1/2 cup rice crisp cereal</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">1/4-1/2 teaspoon fine grain sea salt, to taste</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">1/2 cup natural peanut butter, almond butter, or sunflower seed butter</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">1/2 cup pure maple syrup (or liquid sweetener of choice)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">3 tablespoons mini dark chocolate chips (I use Enjoy Life)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">1/2 tablespoon coconut oil</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">Line an 8-inch square pan with a piece of parchment paper. Mix the oat flour, protein powder, rice crisp, and salt together in a large bowl.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">Add in the nut/seed butter, maple syrup, and vanilla. Stir well to combine. If the mixture is a bit dry, add a splash of non-dairy milk and mix again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">Press into pan and roll out with a pastry roller until smooth. Pop into the freezer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">Melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together in a small pot over low heat. When half of the chips have melted, remove from heat and stir until smooth.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: courier new, courier, monospace;">After freezing the bars for about 5-10 minutes, remove from freezer and slice into bars. Drizzle with melted chocolate and freeze again until set. Store in the freezer for a week or longer in an air-tight freezer bag or container.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">{Oh She Glows Link is Above!}</span></span></div>
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-58215866572949231012016-02-03T07:56:00.002-05:002016-02-03T07:57:20.726-05:00::*::16 for 2016::*::<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I'm curious as to how certain people hold onto their motivation..if you will..if that is something that you can even do. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Man oh man, was I ever gung-ho on the gym lately - and still am!! But then there are days like today...where I really cannot be bothered to get out of bed. And all it really takes is just one day...ya know? Friday I was sick and couldn't function even remotely normal so passed...yesterday was too busy and today -- too rainy? Lol. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I guess there is a lot on the go as well - did I mention we're moving?!!! YA!!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">As much as I am going to miss this place {and the view!} we decided we wanted something bigger {cheaper!} and more home-y. So have signed a new lease on a townhome about 10 minutes from where we live now {and closer to work!}. Not only that, but it's close to everything else {grocery stores and the mall!!} and it is just a fabulous new place to make NEW memories in all over again. :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I'll be sure to share a tun of pictures! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I'm still going to probably drag my ass to do a sesh of cardio - but in the meantime, I am going to share a recipe post as well as my beloved book post - as my email is being bombarded with new things to read and I did promise myself and my GoodReads app that I am going to read 16 books in 2016. I have already read one...so 15 more to go. :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Make sure to let me know if you've read any of the ones below or if you have any suggestions for great - new - books! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">HA...I just figured out how to do split screen on my MAC - this is going to make posting this a heck of a lot easier. Lol. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><b>The 52 Lists Project: A Year of Weekly Journaling Inspiration by Moorea Seal</b>$16.95 CAD<br /><br />I wanted to pick this book up immediately ~ unfortunately, you cannot find it anywhere! This book in Canada is available in select stores...and the only store closest to me that has it, is Woodbridge {TOO FAR AWAY} and they only have one copy! Regardless...it's definitely at the top of my list despite it's 3-6 week waiting period. Ugh.<br />Why I love this book and want to get it, is because I want to really get back into writing this year. I always used to be a HUGE writer...journaling constantly, writing short stories and poems and just haven't been able to get back into it for some reason - a workbook like this is ideal for me. To ge the creative juices flowing. It's technically a journal - but to me, it's so much more.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ux-JoPGJj1E/Vq4gzcY35RI/AAAAAAAAcrQ/EtSM_oUceoQ/s1600/book%2Btwo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ux-JoPGJj1E/Vq4gzcY35RI/AAAAAAAAcrQ/EtSM_oUceoQ/s320/book%2Btwo.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><b>642 Tiny Things to Write About by San Francisco's Writers' Grotto and Polly Bronson</b>$14.95 CAD<br /><br />Another book along the same lines of the 52 Lists Project but I feel is a tad more thought=provoking. According to the book description, this little gem is great for writers that are trying to get past their writers block and get inspired by writing again.<br />I feel like this book is the nitty gritty - a diamond in the rough - where the 52 Lists book is a diamond...pickin' up what I'm throwin' down? LOL!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D7CuehUChds/Vq4hxONzQ2I/AAAAAAAAcrY/XWJMDx30y2Q/s1600/book%2Bthree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D7CuehUChds/Vq4hxONzQ2I/AAAAAAAAcrY/XWJMDx30y2Q/s400/book%2Bthree.jpg" width="303" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><b>Cravings by Chrissy Teigen</b>$34.70 CAD<br /><br />Yes, this book is a little steep in price...but I have been waiting for it, FOREVER!! I have been a long-time follower of Chrissy Teigen on insta and just LOVE her posts on the food that she cooks {and those cute puppies!!}. She strikes me as a very down to earth woman and was super excited when I found out that she was releasing a cookbook.<br />I cannot wait to get my hands on this one - if the book is anything like her, then we are all in for a treat! </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f-ogfpBhMr4/Vq4icnOxrTI/AAAAAAAAcrg/QE6CiMwFFC0/s1600/book%2Bfour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f-ogfpBhMr4/Vq4icnOxrTI/AAAAAAAAcrg/QE6CiMwFFC0/s400/book%2Bfour.jpg" width="310" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><b>Nom Yourself: Simple Vegan Cooking by Mary Mattern</b>20.69 CAD<br /><br />I am a HUGE book lover...and an even bigger cookbook lover. And you will probably notice that there aren't going to be many cookbooks on this list...it seems to me like a lot of books are really becoming repeptitive...so it's up to me to really go through, read reviews and try to scrounge up some good, innovative books to try recipes from.<br />This definitely strikes me as that sort of book. I also want to really cook healthier meals to match my current lifestyle and avoid meat as much as I can.<br />This is definitely a book that strikes me as all of the above for a great price and great reviews - not to mention the lovely full colours pages of the recipes.<br />I think this'll definitely be a staple in my new kitchen. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><b>Wytches Volume 1 - by Scott Snyder & Scott Jock</b>$11.33 CAD<br /><br />Scary book time!! I am really wanting to read some books here that take me away from the everyday montony that is life at times! Sitting behind a desk for 10 hours a day monotny. Lol.<br />This book has great reviews and is touted as "a triumph" by the one and only Stephen King! Can't wait to see what this one is all about.<br /><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">"It's fabulous. A triumph." -Stephen King "Dark and brutal... Wytches are like nothing horror fans have ever seen" -USA Today Everything you thought you knew about witches is wrong. They are much darker, and they are much more horrifying. Wytches takes the mythology of witches to a far creepier, bone-chilling place than readers have dared venture before. When the Rooks family moves to the remote town of Litchfield, NH to escape a haunting trauma, they're hopeful about starting over. But something evil is waiting for them in the woods just beyond town. Watching from the trees. Ancient...and hungry. Collects Wytches #1-6. "The most terrifying comic you've ever read." -MTV News "Dark and brutal... Wytches are like nothing horror fans have ever seen" -USA Today "Very, very scary... Much like the works of Mary Shelley and the other writers of the Villa Diodati..." -Paste Magazine "Snyder has tackled horror before, but Wytches sets out to be an entirely new level of scary." -Complex Magazine "An awesome and at times terrifying tale." -IGN</span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SN6QoV-O6xs/Vq4kvnP4MzI/AAAAAAAAcr0/7gCb_ixUwSg/s1600/book%2Bsix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SN6QoV-O6xs/Vq4kvnP4MzI/AAAAAAAAcr0/7gCb_ixUwSg/s400/book%2Bsix.jpg" width="270" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><b>The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey</b>$10 CAD<br /><br />I am desperate to find a book alogn the lines of Maze Runner - or any book like that for that matter {anyone have any suggestions??} so when I saw this, I got super excited.<br />AND, they're making a movie - or already have made a movie of this book!<br />Sigh....I just love YA books...<br /><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">After the 1st wave, only darkness remains. After the 2nd, only the lucky escape. And after the 3rd, only the </span><i style="color: #333333;">un</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">lucky survive. After the 4th wave, only one rule applies: trust no one.</span><br style="color: #333333;" /><br style="color: #333333;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Now, it's the dawn of the 5th wave, and on a lonely stretch of highway, Cassie runs from Them. The beings who only look human, who roam the countryside killing anyone they see. Who have scattered Earth's last survivors. To stay alone is to stay alive, Cassie believes, until she meets Evan Walker. Beguiling and mysterious, Evan Walker may be Cassie's only hope for rescuing her brother--or even saving herself. But Cassie must choose: between trust and despair, between defiance and surrender, between life and death. To give up or to get up.</span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><b>You Are A Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero</b><br />$16.46 CAD<br /><br />This definitely caught my attention because - well, who doesn't want to be a badass??? It's a bit of a more laid-back, humourous approach to stop being a pushover and start getting what you want out of life.<br />It's an entertaining how-to guide on how to silence that self-saboteur that so many of us live with on a day-to-day basis - it's time to start getting after what it is that you want out of life and I think that this would be a great book for anyone to add to their list of books to read in the New Year. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><b>The Brain Fog Fix by Dr. Mike Dow</b>$15.66 CAD<br /><br />There are so many self-help books out there that I desperately want to get my hands on, but this one has been sitting on my wish list for a long time now and only recently did I see it again {my wish list is about 12 pages long, lol!} and thought to myself "WHY didn't I get this book sooner?!!".<br />In the past, I lived a horribly unhealthy lifestyle - didn't eat well, partied too much, little to NO exercise, gained a plethora of poundage and went into a deep dark hole for a long while {which in retrospect feels like an eternity}.<br />Now that I've finally cleaned up my act, I still have moments where I'm not entirely sure where my head is actually at. I can't imagine I did much good to it during those years. So there are moments where I am feeling uninspired, not-present, or want to do things a mile a minute but get easily distracted. So I definitely think this book would be a winner for myself and something that I definitely need in my life right now.<br />So the Brain Fog Fix is a 3-week program that is designed to help you restore {naturally} three huge brain chemicals which are serotonin, dopamine and cortisol. It's important to have these three crucial chemicals balanced out in the brain - and this book is supposedly designed to do just that.<br />I also love this quote by the author, Dr. Mike Dow, which definitely fits into my holistic approach to dealing with....well, life.<br />"If I've learned one thing from the thousands of people I've treated, it's that you have to take the whole person into account if you want to think and feel better."</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><b>15 Minutes to Fit: The Simple 30-Day Guide to Total Fitness by Zuzka Light and Jeff O'Connell</b><br />$27 CAD<br /><br />I have been a huge Zuzana fan for the longest time - since I seen her on BodyRock.TV in 2010...wow, that's a long time! BodyRock definitely has had their shares of ups and downs. I'm not going to lie when I say that I kinda reveled in reading the controversy between Z, Freddie and Lisa Marie - doesn't make what happened right, but...different people have differing opinions and as to whose "side" they're on. I, for one {and obviously} am on Z's side. Even though she hasn't gained the sort of following she once had, she's still pretty badass and has a body to die for!!<br />I follow many of her kick-ass workouts so was super excited to see and hear that she had her very own book coming out!<br />This book has a 30-day fitness regime with a meal plan and step-by-step photo's of how to do her 15-minute workouts properly.<br />It might be hard to believe that you can get a body like Z with just 15 minutes a day but trust me, once you power through a workout like the ones that she has designed, it'll totally leave you soakin' wet and out of breath!<br />I also LOVE her positive attitude so I can imagine much of the book reflects that as well. Very excited to see all the details of this book once I get my mitts on it!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">There you have it! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">What books in 2016 will you be reading? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">How many books have you promised yourself that you would read this year? Share in the comments! :) </span><br />
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-83603873731760364682016-01-28T14:41:00.003-05:002016-01-28T14:41:55.466-05:00::*::sweet:smoothie::*::<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: large;">Apple Pie Smoothie</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Lately, I've been seriously craving a mountain size amount of sugar - now if you know me, you would think that this is absolutely bizarre because I don't like sugar! I don't like anything remotely sweet! But in the last 6 months, I've done a complete 360 and all I want is apple pie, Turtles, Ferrero's, ice cream, cake, cheese cake, cookies, muffins...you name it, I want it all!!!! And no, I'm not pregnant, lol. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But, with my current training going on and eating hella clean, apple pie is just not in the cards for me. :( Sniff Sniff. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">That's why I am always ecstatic when I find new smoothie (or health-conscious recipes in general) that satisfy my new-found sweet tooth. :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This recipe is one I stumbled upon on the MBG site - enjoy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">5 raw almonds</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-small;">{Image: LeanItUp}</span></div>
Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-70096781029859492632016-01-25T08:50:00.000-05:002016-01-25T08:50:48.823-05:00::truism::<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So much has been happening so far this year ~ and not in a bad way! I remember beginning the new year so many times with the mentality of "New Year, New Me" as I am sure you have probably seen or heard of a million times so far this past January from social media, TV commercial, radio shows, etc etc etc bombarding you every which way you are able to turn. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I always did a list of things that I wanted to accomplish that year, but somehow, most of the time, I never got around to it. For example, in 2012, I told myself I would try creme brulee. Something so simple...and guess what? I never did. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">To put so much pressure on oneself with these "New Year's Resolutions" and then to allow something as trivial as trying creme brulee to ruin the way you feel about yourself and what you have accomplished thus far is ludicrous in my opinion</span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Of course, this is not to say that I don't have goals this year, but that's just it. They're GOALS. And I will strive and work towards these goals no matter what. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I've come to the realization that we must do things that make us UNCOMFORTABLE in order for us to grow. I learned that in the second half of 2015. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I know this sounds so cliche and when you hear it you kinda just want to say "SHUDDUP!" but it's so true when people tell you that "baby steps" are important. I hate the word "can't"...so when you tell me I can't take leaps and bounds, that frustrates me, as I am sure it does with others too. But it's truth...and I guess the only way you'll learn is if you make your own mistakes and go on your own journey, but baby steps REALLY are important. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">It's hard some days when you sit there and think to yourself "WHY am I not any farther?!" but you need to give yourself credit. You're probably a heck of a lot farther then where you were on Day 1.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">It's hard, but it's worth it. It really is! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Anyways, no promises on this blog for this year. I'll get to you all when I can. But just wanted to impart these little words of unvarnished truth. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I sorta needed to get it offa my chest since I feel like I've hit a wall myself. And it's only the 25th of January! So, let's keep pluggin' away, shall we? :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-51792247170837312822016-01-01T13:44:00.001-05:002016-01-01T13:45:38.863-05:00::onto:2016::<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;">HAPPY NEW YEAR FRIENDS!!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Wow...what a year 2015 has been...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">First off, want to begin by saying that yesterday was pretty awesome! I worked for half the day, trained, got home, made a delicious & healthy dinner (baked whole organic chicken, potatoes and salad), had a Star Wars marathon (1-3!) and had another workout (cardio, baby!) and more Star Wars...and King of Queens....then bed at 12:01am! LOL. It was nice, honestly. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This morning I woke up and decided to start my year by journaling - </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I decided I'm not going to make any resolutions for 2016 at all. I, first of all, cannot believe that's it's 2016 already. It's insanity how quickly time flies these days. I don't even know where 2015 went! And even though I say to myself now that 2015 wasn't as eventful or exciting as I wanted it to be, it definitely was a year of firsts. I got a new job, I finished school and graduated, I began training...among a multitude of other things. So I should be proud and give myself a pat on the back. I feel like I'm on the right track - and that there ARE good things to come...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But I can't stand the "NEW YEAR, NEW YOU" slogans that are being smeared all over social media and advertisements the last week or so. Driving me BONKERS!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I know that sounds terrible - but it really is! I don't like resolutions, because if you don't follow through with half of them, then you feel like a failure! I started my new years resolutions, a long time ago! I just think that we shouldn't put this incredibly amount of pressure on ourselves, for no reason! We should just take it as it comes, a day at a time! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We need to sent lifestyle goals, little tiny things that will make a big impact...pack a huge punch! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So...that's what I'm doing. No resolutions, just little changes...that'll become big ones...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Also, positivity. That's a big thing for me as well right now. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So....Happy New Year to all of you! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">May 2016 be the best year yet! Or...just take it as it comes! The good and the bad. :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">But regardless, I am:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">And here's to another year with The Darling Miss G - please stay tuned for LOTS more!! :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-64412665949696823872015-12-20T09:35:00.000-05:002015-12-20T09:38:32.805-05:00::christmas:is:going:to:the:dogs::<div class="gmail_default" style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FYI to my regular readers, this is just an older post...but really wanted to post this! :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">What a weekend. It went by crazy fast. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">My poor little Lou'e had to go to the emergency vet on Sunday because of a bad eye infection. No idea how or what brought this on. But my heart breaks for the little guy every time I look into his big chocolatey brown eyes...because he can barely open one! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I know that a lot of people look at animals and say they're "just dogs" or "just cats"...but my two, Lou'e and Moo, are part of my family and I treat them as such. I will still treat them like dogs, but at the same time, what's wrong with coddling them?? As long as they don't have any behavioral issues, right? They're my little babies and I love to nurture and love 'em up. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Let me tell you though, they can get expensive! LOL! The vet visit wasn't cheap and oftentimes it can set a lot of people back. That's why I think that sometimes it might be wise to invest in a pet-plan where you pay into some sort of an account monthly - or a health insurance plan.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Since I've got dog on the brain and have for the last few days (non-stop!) AND <span style="color: #274e13;">Christmas</span> (since it snowed this weekend!!) I've decided to do a little post on great gift-ideas for pet parents and their sidekicks! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">PS. This is a dog-lover post, I'm sorry I have nothing for the kitties at this time. Maybe in a future post! :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Also, please be mindful of the sites - some are Canadian and some are American! You can click on the title of each product, which will take you directly to a link where you can purchase these items. :) And no, I'm not getting paid to endorse these products. I just seen them and thought it would be a great idea to put some ideas together for you guys for spoiling your pooch at Christmas!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Christmas is Going to the Dogs!</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Your puppies Christmas Wishlist! (And maybe yours too! :))</b></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IYxy1qL-qz0/VlRtmdGpgkI/AAAAAAAAcjk/tjzKpSjrzB4/s1600/Snack-DuO_72.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IYxy1qL-qz0/VlRtmdGpgkI/AAAAAAAAcjk/tjzKpSjrzB4/s400/Snack-DuO_72.jpg" width="391" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://store.dexas.com/snack-duo-with-companion-cup/" target="_blank">Snack Duo for Dogs</a></b><br />$19.99 USD<br /><br />This is the perfect {and only} 2-in-1 travel 'pupware' that you'll need on road trips or hikes with your pooch! There are two compartments here, one for water and one for food or treats that you can take with you when traveling. The lid also pops off and gets turned into a collapsible dish.<br />Great for people - and pups! - on the go! :)</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-568_3CTF5SQ/VlR0HwEsuII/AAAAAAAAcj8/BxirYn9GfOE/s1600/14776485_201311211328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-568_3CTF5SQ/VlR0HwEsuII/AAAAAAAAcj8/BxirYn9GfOE/s400/14776485_201311211328.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Gulpy-Water-Dispenser-20-Ounce-Colors/dp/B000TG7YRM" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Gulpy Water Dispenser</a><br />$9.99 CAD<br /><br />This is another great travel item for your pooch. Similiar to the one above, but this one is just for water, in case you don't want to lug around food - or don't need to. They come in an array of colours and the large plastic backing that you see behind the actual bottle itself, opens up into a miniature "trough".</span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iiIU6K4NPx0/VlR4mvL2rXI/AAAAAAAAckI/iLw3dOYNvaQ/s1600/lucky-dog-slots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><img border="0" height="358" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iiIU6K4NPx0/VlR4mvL2rXI/AAAAAAAAckI/iLw3dOYNvaQ/s400/lucky-dog-slots.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://outwardhound.com/shop/dog-games/lucky-dog-slotstm" target="_blank">Outward Hound Lucky Slots</a></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">$16.76 USD (Amazon)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">This is the cutest thing ever!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">My puppies don't eat dry food, but if yours do, isn't this the cutest/perfect idea for them to get to their food? It'll slow 'em down some, so it's great if your pooch likes to wolf his or her meals down in 5 seconds flat...like Maggie does...which also leads me tooooo...</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B009E7SRBY/ref=asc_df_B009E7SRBY2716498?smid=A1KV49W6ALVUD5&tag=sdcbing596-20&linkCode=asn&creative=395105&creativeASIN=B009E7SRBY" target="_blank"><b>Jorvet Buster Maze Bowl</b></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">$37.92 USD (Amazon)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Okay, I know this is a liiiiiiiittle ridiculously overpriced for a dog bowl...for literally just a weirdly shaped piece of plastic BUT there are TUNZ of different options out there for your pooch! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">My moo eats FAST...actually, she doesn't eat, she INHALES. So am looking into a "maze bowl" for her, so that she can slow it down a little bit at 'bweakfast" time. ;) These apparently work amazingly well, because it takes a little more work for your puplet to get to their food. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Bake-A-Bone-The-Original-Treat-Maker/dp/B00CIJMD6K" target="_blank">Bake a Bone</a></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">$30.05 USD (Amazon)<br /><br />LOL! Is this NOT amazing?? I just stumbled upon this while doing the posts, and this actually has some pretty fabulous reviews! It's literally like a waffle maker, except it's specifically for your pooch! There's nothing better then feeding your dog home-made treats. Much healthier for them too!<br />NOTE: Please make sure to do your research - dogs can't just eat anything! So some ingredients will be on the NO NO list. </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><a href="http://www.amazon.ca/iFetch-Automatic-Ball-Launcher-Dogs/dp/B00UCM2WNY/ref=sr_1_27?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1450620930&sr=1-27-spons&keywords=dog+toys&psc=1" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-size: small;">iFetch</span></b></a><br />$207.95 USD (Amazon)<br /><br />You must be asking yourself - what in the hell is that!?!<br />It's an AUTOMATIC BALL THROWER!! Hahah, it honestly made me LOL! But it's just the cutest! Just check out the site! It is a little steep in price though, so you must be a dedicated doggy lover to shell out the cash for something like this (or just incredibly lazy, lol!).<br />This contraption allows your dog to drop the ball into the machine and it shoots out (up to 30ft!!) the other end!<br />I am pretty confident this probably wouldn't do well in my apartment (or any apartment that has fragile things around) so this is ideal for pups with BIG homes and yards! </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002DK4IS/ref=s9_cdx_hd_bw_g199_i6?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-2&pf_rd_r=1NST6BJB2RT8RC7S5RTC&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=77b9e727-3844-3e7b-b75e-2a06ec7f4c9a%2F3cc08987-3967-345f-92ad-0c7cbce92009&pf_rd_i=4602692011" target="_blank">OurPets Big Bone Pet Toy Storage Bin</a></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">$29.99 USD (Amazon)<br /><br />This is just the cutest.<br />If your furchild is beyond spoiled (like my two are!) they probably have a gajillion toys! My Mom even jokes that my dogs have more toys then my Sister and I had as children! LOL.<br />So...why not invest in their very own storage bin?? It's just too cute! </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://us.mungoandmaud.com/Dogs/Dog-Grooming/Mungo-%26-Maud-%22Petite-Amande%22-Dog-Fragrance/1632/" target="_blank">Petite Amande Dog Fragrance</a></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">$78.50 USD Mungo & Maud<br /><br />Another bit of a steep gift for the dog lover...but AMAZING!<br />This is actually a perfume/cologne for puppy dogs!<br />They explain that their ingredients are carefully chosen and of the highest quality (well it has to be for our furballs, doesn't it??). And with "delicate notes of French blackcurrant, Tunisian neroli, mimosa and violet leaf, base of sweet vanilla bourbon with a little almond...it almost makes me want to just get it for myself!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><a href="https://barkbox.com/" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Barkbox</span></b></a><br />Monthly fee's apply.<br /><br />Last but certainly not list...probably at the VERY TOP of every puplet's Christmas Wish List to Santa is their very own subscription to BarkBox!<br />This is a monthly service (that now ships to Canada!! woohoo!!) that ships right to your door - filled with goodies! Such as toys, treats and chews! All of their treats/chews are all natural and made with the best ingredients...so no need to worry there - and also a few toys are thrown in for good measure! You can get a BarkBox for individual puppies, or one for two puplets! Or more! You obviously have to pay for this monthly service, and it depends on what sort of 'package' you decide to go with. But it's just an AWESOME gift for anyone that has a furball.<br />I actually know someone that receives these boxes to work every month - and there is always a tun of fun stuff in there. :) Definitely something Moo and Lou'e would LOVE! One day... :) </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">There you have it! Just a couple of little things here and there in case you needed help with purchasing something for your dog-loving-dog-crazy friend or for your very own fluffy lovebugs. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I wanted to just quickly make a special mention as well - when purchasing treats/food online - please make sure to read all ingredients and find out WHERE they were made. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I would highly recommend that YOU DO NOT PURCHASE any sort of food for your pooch from China - as there have been many cautionary as well as heart-breaking stories regarding treats that were fed to furballs that came from China...not saying all do...but...wouldn't you want to go local anyways and purchase from your own city? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Also - I would be wary of RAWHIDE as well - bully sticks are the way to go (under supervision!) but make sure those babies are made locally too. Oftentimes, bully sticks that come from Brazil or India get transported with loads of bacteria that can upset your poochies sensitive tummy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Dogs are like people too, people! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">They ain't trash cans! Feed them nutritious foods...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Only the best for man's best friend. :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Happy Howl-idays! :))</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">PS. Check BarkPost's <a href="http://barkpost.com/gifts-people-love-dogs/" target="_blank">site</a> for more fantastic holiday gift ideas for poochies and dog-lovers alike. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-66721329674804891012015-12-13T10:16:00.001-05:002015-12-13T10:16:15.144-05:00::post:to:come::<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Sorry! I have a good excuse!! Christmas is coming, exam is finished, training at the gym, etc etc etc! So....thus the lack of posts. BUT I do have a couple that I began writing and I need to tweak and share...so stay tuned. I plan on sharing a HOWL-iday post with you guys soon! Especially for those last minute shoppers that have pup-parents for friends! :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Hope everyone is having a great weekend...it's raining here! Where is the snow!?!?! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">-S.<span style="color: #f1c232;">*</span></span></div>
Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-80040674492451992772015-11-26T15:27:00.002-05:002015-11-26T15:27:42.935-05:00::book:gift:ideas::<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">WOOHOOOO!!!!!!!!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Black Friday is coming up! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Do you guys actually shop on Black Friday? I never have...and I won't be tomorrow as I'm broke as a joke! Damn...it's </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Murphy's Law, eh? You have a bit of money, you can't find nuttin....you don't have money? You want the entire world! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I have got a long list for Santa this year {of course, nothing can really top the Vitamix from last year, seriously!} such</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">as books, boxing gloves, clothes {gym ones too!}, some things for the pups {an awesome HOWLiday gift idea post </span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">coming up in the next few days too!} and much, much more. What's on your guys' wishlist for the year? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I know that I gotta take those pennies and spend on some kidlets for thie Christmas. I would have loved to get Travis' </span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">nieces and nephew a BUNNY for Christmas, but not sure if his Sister {my shopping partner-in-crime} Lori would </span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">appreciate that. LOL. So the hunt continues! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">During the Fall/Winter there are a lot of new things that usually come out, new clothes lines, new movies and music that are highly anticipated, new games and electronics and of course, new books. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Lots of new books! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">As most of you know, I have quite a collection - that I adore. There are times when on the weekend I will sit in my spare room/office {hahaha, it's totally not an office but it makes me sound more 'accomplished'} and I'll sit there and endlessly peruse older books, cookbooks, textbooks, encyclopedia's, paperbacks, picture books. There is just something about books that I can't get enough of. Especially when you get your hands on a really good one? I am still reeling over "Girl on the Train" - I loved that book! Or a good series, like the Hunger Games. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">But nothing beats my cookbooks, I've always been enamoured with food {good and bad thing, lol} and just love the descriptions of certain dishes and the gorgeous, colourful pictures. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Sigh...just books...I love books! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So here is a quirky book holiday gift-idea post for the cookbook/book lover in your circle. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Pricing MAY be a little different {talking about the Amazon Canada site} as I started this post about a month ago. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Rachel Khoo's Kitchen Notebook: Over 100 Delicious Recipes from My Personal Cookbook Hardcover – Oct 13 2015</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">by Rachel Khoo (Author), David Loftus (Photographer) <b>$25.67</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Living a life as colorful and creative as Rachel Khoo-star of three BBC television series, author of bestselling cookbooks, illustrator, and international tastemaker-creates a constellation of ideas and inspiration. All of her gifts pack this exuberant more-than-a-cookbook, with its rounded corners and hefty notebook feel. Each turn of the page offers doable and delicious recipes, style-setting ideas from around the globe, 250 photographs, and Rachel's charming illustrations and engaging notes. Here's a cookbook unlike any other-one that brings a smile of surprise and delight every time it's opened.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>The Vitamix Cookbook: 250 Delicious Whole Food Recipes to Make in Your Blender Hardcover – Oct 13 2015</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">by Jodi Berg (Author)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>$31.05</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Discover simple ways to incorporate more whole foods into your daily diet using a blender with this gorgeous cookbook featuring 200 delicious recipes and more than fifty full-color photos—the first widely available cookbook from the Vitamix brand.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Recently known primarily to professional chefs, over the past decade the Vitamix blender has become one of the most sought after kitchen appliances in home kitchens. Now, Vitamix has created a gorgeous companion cookbook to help you enjoy the benefits of a whole foods diet. Here are more than 200 simple, scrumptious, easy-to-prepare recipes that use a blender—most taking less than thirty minutes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The chefs at Vitamix believe that the only way to make lasting, healthy changes to your diet is to enjoy the food you eat. With The Vitamix Cookbook they’ve created mouthwatering food you’ll want everyday:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">breakfast and brunch, including smoothies, breakfast mains (muffins, breads and scones), pancakes, waffles, egg dishes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">soups and sides (amazingly, the Vitamix heats the soup while blending it, making it table ready in less than ten minutes!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">entrees, including wraps and sandwiches, burgers, pizza, pasta, poultry, meat and seafood</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">sauces and dressings</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">drinks, including nut milks, juices, and even cocktails</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">desserts, including sorbets, ice creams, milkshakes and baked desserts</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Throughout The Vitamix Cookbook, you’ll find helpful sidebars with inspiring stories of people who have improved their health using their Vitamix, as well as tips for a nutritious whole foods diet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Crazy Sexy Juice: 100+ Simple Juice, Smoothie & Nut Milk Recipes to Supercharge Your Health Hardcover – Oct 20 2015</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">by Kris Carr (Author) <b>$24.29</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Hello, gorgeous!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Welcome to a juicing and blending adventure! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> If you've picked up this book, it's likely that you're looking to bring more zing into your life. Perhaps you're feeling a little tired. Bloated. Out of sorts. Whatever it is, you've come to the right place. Get ready to say good-bye to feeling meh and hello to feeling fabulous!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> In Crazy Sexy Juice , wellness advocate and New York Times best-selling author Kris Carr teaches you everything you need to know about creating fresh, nutritious juices and smoothies, and creamy, indulgent nut and seed milks. With enough recipes to keep your juicer and blender humming through every season, she shows you how to fit them into your life, helping you make health deposits-instead of withdrawals! Cha-ching!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> She guides you through her wonderful world by teaching you:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">· How to create flavor combinations that tantalize your taste buds</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">· How to choose the best juicer, blender, and kitchen tools</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">· Ways to save money while prioritizing fresh, organic produce</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">· Troubleshooting advice for common kitchen mishaps</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">· Tips for selection, storage, and preparation of ingredients</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">· Answers to frequently asked questions and health concerns</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">· Suggestions for juicing and blending on the go</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">· Tips on how to get your family onboard and make this lifestyle stick</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">· And oh, so much more…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> Whether you're an old pro at making liquid magic or just starting out, Kris will help you experience juicing and blending as a fun and delicious journey into the transformative powers of fruits and veggies! By simply adding these nutrient-dense beverages to your daily life, you can take control of your health-one sip at a time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> With more than 100 scrumptious recipes and oodles of information, you'll be ready to dive into a juicing paradise. Cheers to that!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Includes an easy and energizing 3-day cleanse!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Thug Kitchen Party Grub: For Social Motherf*ckers Hardcover – Oct 13 2015</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">by Thug Kitchen (Author) <b>$25</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">From the duo behind New York Times bestseller, Thug Kitchen, comes the next installment of kick-ass recipes with a side of attitude. Thug Kitchen: Party Grub answers the question that they have heard most from their fans: How the hell are you supposed to eat healthy when you hang around with a bunch of assholes who couldn’t care less about what they stuff in their face? The answer: You make a bomb-ass plant-based dish from Thug Kitchen. Featuring over 100 recipes for every occasion, Party Grub combines exciting, healthy food with easy-to-follow directions and damn entertaining commentary.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">From appetizers like Deviled Chickpea Bites to main events like Mexican Lasagna, Thug Kitchen: Party Grub is here to make sure you’re equipped with dishes to bring the flavor without a side of fat, calories, and guilt. Also included are cocktail recipes, because sometimes these parties need a pick-me-up of the liquid variety.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Happy Cooking: Make Every Meal Count ... Without Stressing Out Hardcover – Nov 3 2015</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">by Giada De Laurentiis (Author) <b>$40</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Best-selling cookbook author Giada De Laurentiis is picking up where Feel Good Food left off. Filled with even more fresh recipes and day-to-day living strategies, the Food Network superstar shares her year-round approach to living a healthy and happy lifestyle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> Giada De Laurentiis, one of the most recognizable faces on the Food Network lineup, invites readers to get to know her as never before. The celebrity chef is back with nearly 200 new recipes and helpful advice on everything from hosting a potluck or open house to what to pack along for lunch every day. Drawing on the time-saving tips and healthy eating strategies that keep her functioning at the highest possible level in her roles as working mom, restaurateur, and tv personality, she has assembled a year-round roadmap to vibrant good health and delicious eating. Readers will be inspired to try new ingredients, new wellness practices, and create a wholesome balance between peak nutrition - and the occasional decadent indulgence. Featuring her New Year's cleanse, homemade Christmas gifts, and ideas for every holiday, special occasion, and casual weekend in between, this is Giada’s 365-approach to cooking up a happy life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Mark Bittman's Kitchen Matrix: More Than 700 Simple Recipes and Techniques to Mix and Match for Endless Possibilities Hardcover – Oct 27 2015</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">by Mark Bittman (Author) <b>$36.09</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Bestselling author Mark Bittman anthologizes his popular Matrix series in a boldly graphic new cookbook that emphasizes creativity, improvisation, and simplicity as the keys to varied cooking.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">For years, Mark Bittman has shared his formulas, recipes, and kitchen improvisations in his popular New York Times Eat column, in which an ingredient or essential technique is presented in different variations in a bold matrix. Accompanied by striking photographs and brief, straightforward instructions, these thematic matrices show how simple changes in preparation and ingredient swaps in a master recipe can yield dishes that are each completely different from the original, and equally delicious. In Mark Bittman’s Kitchen Matrix, Mark’s matrices come together to create a collection of over 400 flexible recipes covering vegetables, fruits, meats and chicken, and even desserts. Whether you're cooking up soup (creamy, brothy, earthy, or hearty), freezing ice pops (in fruity, savory, creamy, or boozy varieties), or preparing asparagus (steamed, roasted, stir-fried, or grilled), following Mark’s approach to culinary improvisation will deliver stand-out results. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">L<b>aura in the Kitchen: Favorite Italian-American Recipes Made Easy Hardcover – Oct 6 2015</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">by Laura Vitale (Author) <b>$20.68</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">At long last, the companion cookbook to the hit YouTube cooking show with recipes for 120 simple, delicious Italian-American classics</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">When Laura Vitale moved from Naples to the United States at age twelve, she cured her homesickness by cooking up endless pots of her nonna’s sauce. She went on to work in her father’s pizzeria, but when his restaurant suddenly closed, she knew she had to find her way back into the kitchen. Together with her husband, she launched her Internet cooking show, Laura in the Kitchen, where her enthusiasm, charm, and irresistible recipes have won her millions of fans. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">In her debut cookbook, Laura focuses on simple recipes that anyone can achieve—whether they have just a little time to spend in the kitchen or want to create an impressive feast. Here are 110 all-new recipes for quick-fix suppers, such as Tortellini with Pink Parmesan Sauce and One- Pan Chicken with Potatoes, Wine, and Olives; leisurely entrées, including Spinach and Artichoke-Stuffed Shells and Pot Roast alla Pizzaiola; and 10 fan favorites, like Cheesy Garlic Bread and No-Bake Nutella Cheesecake. Laura tests her recipes dozens of times to perfect them so the results are always spectacular. With clear instructions and more than 100 color photographs, Laura in the Kitchen is the perfect guide for anyone looking to get comfortable at the stove and have fun cooking.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook: Over 300 Delicious Whole Foods Recipes, Including Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Soy-Free, and Egg-Free Dishes Paperback – Apr 29 2014</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">by Tom Malterre (Author), Alissa Segersten (Author) <b>$23.89</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Food is powerful medicine and whole foods, or foods in their natural unrefined forms, offer us vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that prevent diseases and create a state of balance and health within us. Nutritionist Tom Malterre and Chef Alissa Segersten understand that food can be both healing and delicious and in THE WHOLE LIFE NUTRITION COOKBOOK they provide information on the importance of living a whole foods lifestyle, and how to transition into one. Readers will learn to prepare foods that promote optimal health, prevent disease, and energize the body. With over 300 delicious, nourishing recipes, readers will discover amazing, new ways to cook whole grains, fish, poultry, meat and veggies. THE WHOLE LIFE NUTRITION COOKBOOK includes:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Evidence-based information on whole foods</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and soy-free recipes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">A complete guide to stocking your whole foods pantry</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The whole story on the current diet trends and how to adapt them to best serve your individual needs</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The real story behind toxicity in food and avoiding PCBs GMOs and non-organics</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Recipes that any vegan, vegetarian, carnivore or omnivore will love</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Whether serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks or desserts, readers will enjoy their food while healing their immune system, decreasing the inflammation that causes disease, balancing hormones and promoting better overall health.</span></div>
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9215872.post-10722524163167688732015-11-19T08:23:00.000-05:002015-11-19T08:24:17.459-05:00::bon:appetit:is:back!::<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I must admit that after eating pretty healthy for the last 3 months I have fallen off the wagon. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I blame my Mom!! LOL!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">My family came to visit in October - first for Thanksgiving and just because and then extended their stay because of a very unfortunate passing that happend in our family.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">But, I am grateful that I was able to bother my parents incessantly for another week. Honestly, when my Mom is down it's as if I'm a kid all over again. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I am usually on the go 95% of the time - taking care of the majority of household chores, bills, the pups, my man and myself as well...not to mention working full time and school as well (which I must finish by the end of the year!).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So I'm usually not sitting until around 8 or 9 in the evening...it gets tiring...but you get into the swing of things and it becomes routine. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">But when my Mom was here...did I just milk it! Lol! I was the biggest lazy bum EVER and I hope my Mom doesn't think I'm this incredible sloth. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">But honestly, I needed it! I loved being able to come home and just sit on the couch, play video games and be a kid again! That's exactly how it felt. I think everyone needs that from time to time. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">When I took vacation back in July it didn't feel like vacation - and even though during my parents stay I was going to work everyday it felt MORE of a vacation then anything. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">The biggest thing I was spoiled with was the food. My Mom's incredible cooking! And despite pigging out on everything that she made, I still managed to lose a good 5lbs in two weeks. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I think it's just that our styles of cooking are completely different from one another's...and I also restrain myself when family is around. But not only that, but I didn't eat out of boredome like I usually do either.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Everything from bigos (for Travis mostly), to kotlety, turkey times two, rosol...I can't even! It was all so freakin' delicious! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">You can imagine how much Travis LOVED having my Mom around! LOL! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">It was an amazing time. Let me tell you though, getting back into the swing of things after my family all went back home was hard as hell...there were nights where I ate chocolate bars for dinner because that's all I had...and did NOT want to cook!!</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4eNHmy6EQ2o/VkncI2aJV-I/AAAAAAAAcjA/c91_t0ZlF3g/s1600/penne_truffles_230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4eNHmy6EQ2o/VkncI2aJV-I/AAAAAAAAcjA/c91_t0ZlF3g/s320/penne_truffles_230.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Poor Travis. Haha. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So...I need to get back into my routine and start cooking more often as well. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">It's funny, since startin back up on this blog, I'm more inspired to write and share again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">So therefore, I'm going to share recipes once again! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Here's one from one of my favorite food sites - Martha Stewart - man oh man, does that site make my mouth water!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">I decided to go with a Mac & Cheese </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">recipe because I, for one, have never really sat down to a macaroni & cheese feast! I also never ate Kraft Dinner (YUCK!) so decided that I would share a recipe where you can make your own {slightly} healthier option! This looks so delicious, I can't wait to try it out. Especially since I haven't had pasta in what seems like half of my life!!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i>Bon Appetit!</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">If you'd like to cook and serve this meal immediately (rather than freezing it), bake uncovered until golden and bubbling, 20 to 30 minutes. You can also freeze portions now and bake them as needed for quick weeknight meals.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;"><b>PREP</b>: 20 MINS///<b>TOTAL TIME</b>: 1 HOUR 40 MINS///<b>SERVINGS</b>: 8</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">SOURCE: EVERYDAY FOOD, MAY 2004</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">1 pound short pasta, such as cavatappi or macaroni</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">Coarse salt</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">6 tablespoons butter</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">1/4 cup all-purpose flour</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">4 cups milk</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">3 cups shredded (12 ounces) sharp white cheddar cheese</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">1 cup finely grated (2 ounces) Parmesan cheese</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;">3 cups very coarse fresh breadcrumbs</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: xx-small;"><b>DIRECTIONS</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>C</b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">ook pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water 1 to 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain, rinse with cool water, and return to pot.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>M</b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">eanwhile, heat 4 tablespoons butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. </span><b>A</b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">dd flour; cook, whisking, 1 minute. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>A</b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">dd milk, cayenne, nutmeg, and 2 teaspoons salt; bring to a simmer. Cook, whisking, until mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, 2 to 3 minutes. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>W</b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">hisk in cheeses until smooth. Pour over pasta; toss to coat. Divide among baking dishes.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>M</b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">elt remaining 2 tablespoons butter; toss with breadcrumbs. Sprinkle over pasta. Cover tightly with plastic wrap; freeze up to 3 months.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>P</b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">reheat oven to 375 degrees. Place frozen dishes on a baking sheet; remove plastic. Cover with foil. Bake until bubbling, 60 to 70 minutes for large dishes, 40 to 50 minutes for small. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>R</b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">emove foil; continue baking until golden, 5 to 10 minutes more.</span></span><br />
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Sandra Ghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03400237138235755173noreply@blogger.com2