tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25582109611081241072024-03-13T00:23:36.436-07:00Oh to Be a MuseAtlanta Content Creator Inspiring [life] styleOh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.comBlogger1303125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-91283953076722944612022-02-11T04:00:00.013-08:002022-03-02T09:51:29.589-08:00Bumpdate with Baby Capri<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgMKrwZjv6hcBkFNgLEEZZ6beYavEloISpcad5amhBj7qRwbsevaUtVw4NhT-CWaWHnJYaiE4TMTx9cyThK4ouKSgmAvPNnew9u2qdO11TLJn6wOQL9iQhe5iqtcvIEGp5mh1xCpxFCTddawh3NnrACwZ-tC1v0kJzqyMhjI1d7HqSTc6nO7QZSk5FqXA=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgMKrwZjv6hcBkFNgLEEZZ6beYavEloISpcad5amhBj7qRwbsevaUtVw4NhT-CWaWHnJYaiE4TMTx9cyThK4ouKSgmAvPNnew9u2qdO11TLJn6wOQL9iQhe5iqtcvIEGp5mh1xCpxFCTddawh3NnrACwZ-tC1v0kJzqyMhjI1d7HqSTc6nO7QZSk5FqXA=s2048" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Unlike a lot of expecting moms, I haven't really posted much about my pregnancy. This is the first (and possibly only) blog I'll put up about it aside from the previous <b><a href="https://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2021/08/experience-toccoa-georgia-babymoon.html" target="_blank">babymoon</a></b> post. I'm enjoying my pregnancy -- for the most part -- but I'm refraining from posting much on the blog or social simply because I want to keep it mostly personal and private, and because my focus is on my life outside of blogging. But here is a bit of a bumpdate so that you all can see where I'm at, but also for my own posterity. It would be a shame if I looked back at this time and had no documentation.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>A Few Things About Baby</b></h3><div>So, we decided to start trying for a baby back in December 2020. I figured it would take us anywhere between three to six months. With a wedding date of March 2021, I thought this would be a good time to start that wouldn't interfere with my wedding dress fitting, lol. After our honeymoon, we found out that we were pregnant in April. Unfortunately, I had an early miscarriage about a week after I found out. Honestly, if we weren't actively trying, I would have thought that my period was late. But I knew I was, in fact, pregnant as I got multiple positive tests until my HCG readings just stopped getting higher. It was a very sad time, but I learned that miscarriages are actually more common than one might think. In May, we got pregnant again, and here we are now in the third trimester with our rainbow baby!</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEinuu5I7c7wqBQ0ReOCzS4trwfjeDsgKPUYt3OwfAIMFmTk7G3W3Ah4-bFEx22OUQbTvte7sL0Aj3hcMnPeMK8FRX6x_dN6znPGfJRBGoG8pd9zrX-9OyprJrgc7tblS7F4DfyDOO4M4Fd4FAQEzR47Mb1WhZogx3gY-F2VfR3XGEjGMmBZ29NN4H_O6g=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEinuu5I7c7wqBQ0ReOCzS4trwfjeDsgKPUYt3OwfAIMFmTk7G3W3Ah4-bFEx22OUQbTvte7sL0Aj3hcMnPeMK8FRX6x_dN6znPGfJRBGoG8pd9zrX-9OyprJrgc7tblS7F4DfyDOO4M4Fd4FAQEzR47Mb1WhZogx3gY-F2VfR3XGEjGMmBZ29NN4H_O6g=s2048" width="800" /></a></div><div>I had my first OB appointment in June. This is basically where you get an ultrasound and look for things like a heartbeat, fetal pole, gestational sac, etc. At my appointment in July, we did a lot of bloodwork and the NIPT -- noninvasive prenatal test. About a week later, we found out the results and everything came back great. We also found out the gender. I was laying in bed when I got the call and the nurse asked if I wanted to know. I said yes and she told me that we were having a girl. I started to cry. My husband and I both wanted a girl, and we're not certain we'll have another baby, so it was very important to me to have a healthy baby girl on the way. Plus, I'm 35, so I'm not getting any younger! Oddly enough, my mother was 36 when she had me, and I might be 36 when I have my baby girl.</div><div><br /></div><div>Before I found out the gender, I came up with a girl's name and tried my darnedest to come up with a boy's name. I was having a much harder time with boy names. This is why. My family has a tradition of C names. Blame my parents. My brother, his three kids, my sister, her kid, and her grandkids (my siblings are all older than me) all have C names. Obviously, so do I. So, it was imperative to have a C name. I also wanted a name that was unique but not ridiculous. I didn't want a name that was overdone or a name that would make this baby's life harder than need be. Since my family has the C name tradition, I wanted to add something to include my husband. He's half Italian and half Polish. I couldn't find any Polish C names that I loved, so I went the Italian route. This is how we ended up with the name Capri. It starts with a C. It's different but not too different. It's an island in Italy.</div><div><br /></div><div>Although most babies are not born on their actual due date, and Capri can decide to come before or after, I still think her due date is pretty awesome. It's February 23, which also happens to be my birthday. Call it kismet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhwYXv9qQq7dHLei_StnnKlA9bniuCnc71w-cntE3wZKvbpFHtj-Tlj3UDtEsFFe1h3_KfcbyCm6PkEWJ_Rf-L1NgSpCiBJC0LbBtp-rIIUSB69f2Rk0xrvACAGWIVpC6Cccz7Of_u-R7D3pGWI6PRKmXv39_-z8ARKx8HOsBzjh9n6r_tRjKCe-86UQw=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhwYXv9qQq7dHLei_StnnKlA9bniuCnc71w-cntE3wZKvbpFHtj-Tlj3UDtEsFFe1h3_KfcbyCm6PkEWJ_Rf-L1NgSpCiBJC0LbBtp-rIIUSB69f2Rk0xrvACAGWIVpC6Cccz7Of_u-R7D3pGWI6PRKmXv39_-z8ARKx8HOsBzjh9n6r_tRjKCe-86UQw=s2048" width="800" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>First Trimester</b></h3><div>The rest of the first trimester was crap. I had terrible all-day nausea (they should rename it to "any time sickness" instead of morning sickness) and fatigue. Nothing tasted right and I was in bed by 7pm. Although I didn't have any cravings, I did have many aversions. Meat was disgusting. Coffee was disgusting. Water was disgusting. The last one was very annoying because drinking water is so important during pregnancy, and water is like my favorite, so it totally sucked how much I hated it. I also developed this gross taste in my mouth after I ate, which still hasn't gone away. Thankfully, I didn't vomit at all! I did end up eating a lot of carbs, so I had no problem gaining some early baby weight.</div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>Second Trimester</b></h3><div>What a difference a trimester makes! When I hit the second trimester, I was put on nausea medication, which significantly helped. Also, at this point, the placenta starts to take on more of the burden, which also helps with the nausea. Since I had experienced a past miscarriage, I had refrained from announcing the pregnancy until this point. I first told my mom around 14 weeks, the rest of my immediate family around 16 weeks, and then my in-laws around 17 weeks (they live out of state and we announced it to them when we visited them).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUXadL1QzLq43EdeFz7zWi95X0L7MJbXX_-ii_yqQ7AUUQdoXiyQmurtVV6VfyLlE2KlQ3-g-E8OPIaxhLihAc62kG0I_qI2XFF-qaZcmg9660EV_vhaSeIOHJ8aVx14UFSIyxAri-zVK1GhUm8FNNdoS-lxWVl5eMfelPeiFkgNnXuAAVNzqe4-yXlQ=s2048" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUXadL1QzLq43EdeFz7zWi95X0L7MJbXX_-ii_yqQ7AUUQdoXiyQmurtVV6VfyLlE2KlQ3-g-E8OPIaxhLihAc62kG0I_qI2XFF-qaZcmg9660EV_vhaSeIOHJ8aVx14UFSIyxAri-zVK1GhUm8FNNdoS-lxWVl5eMfelPeiFkgNnXuAAVNzqe4-yXlQ=s2048" width="800" /></a></div><div>I had way more energy so I started working out again. Before I got pregnant, I worked out probably four days a week. During the second trimester, I went on walks with my dog every day and implemented a pregnancy-safe workout 2-3 times a week. This made me feel so much better. Dealing with the weight gain was not easy for me. This is obviously the biggest I've ever been in my life, which takes quite a bit of getting used to, for sure. There were times when I found myself comparing my pregnancy body and bump to other pregnant moms. I don't recommend that. Everyone gains weight differently, especially depending on how many pregnancies you've had. It doesn't matter if someone is bigger or smaller than you. All that matters is a healthy weight gain and a healthy baby.</div><div><br /></div><div>I was in good spirits most days, but did suffer from round ligament pain and shortness of breath. You really get a new perspective on life when you realize how difficult it is to simply roll out of bed each morning. Big thanks to my <b><a href="https://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2019/12/getting-cozy-with-tempur-pedic.html" target="_blank">Tempur-pedic</a></b> for being adjustable and allowing me to breathe at night. The most absolute best thing about the second trimester is the baby movements! Nothing beats having a human kick you from the inside -- and I'm not even being sarcastic. It's what I'll miss the most about pregnancy for sure.</div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>Third Trimester</b></h3><p style="text-align: left;">In the third trimester, some days are nice while other days are full of discomfort. My main discomforts are sciatica pain, shortness of breath, and nasal congestion at night. I also get the occasional Braxton Hicks, but I just deep breathe through those. One of the best things to take my mind off third trimester woes (apart from exercise) is nesting. Nursery nesting to be specific. This is basically spending a lot of my time in the baby's nursery organizing, decorating, and cleaning. As a one-time <b><a href="https://www.ohtobeamuse.com/p/lookbook.html" target="_blank">personal style blogger</a></b> (wow!), I can tell you that there's nothing more satisfying than looking at baby girl clothing when you're pregnant. I basically live in leggings and sweaters while baby girl has a closet full of neutral jumpsuits and cute footie pajamas.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Another great thing is doing kick counts. I tend to do these when she is most active, which is when I first wake up or before I go to bed. We also got to see some of her face in a 3D/4D ultrasound in December. At first, I was on the fence about doing one because it's not necessary or covered by insurance. But, it's not that expensive, and it allowed Tyler to get to see her in real time. Because of Covid, he hasn't been able to attend any of my appointments, so I really wanted him (and myself) to be able to see her before she arrived.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjhMhJzxYIFKoXM2cT7jfKO5K7-Pm-Dlfzl43dnL6zzSKszI5gsePDukGT10CtFn26QNgGikdjbmnhSrz44TM0l749vEc1lcuNvlceM0hclOFWD6lG-JzzbW4g8GeUBzSdDNPAGvUf3DioSStJ3zX7LJMrYp_D72Y3FoPQHzjaQVEjNLN3KLc19NMTHGw=s1946" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1297" data-original-width="1946" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjhMhJzxYIFKoXM2cT7jfKO5K7-Pm-Dlfzl43dnL6zzSKszI5gsePDukGT10CtFn26QNgGikdjbmnhSrz44TM0l749vEc1lcuNvlceM0hclOFWD6lG-JzzbW4g8GeUBzSdDNPAGvUf3DioSStJ3zX7LJMrYp_D72Y3FoPQHzjaQVEjNLN3KLc19NMTHGw=s1946" width="800" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;">But the most annoying thing that happened in the third trimester is my job changed health insurance providers. Unfortunately, this meant I had to change both my OB/GYN and pediatrician at 9 months pregnant. As you can imagine, there's no worse time to switch your OB and hospital than at 37 weeks pregnant. Like, hey, we just met, and I'm going to need to get comfortable with you pulling a baby out of me in a few short weeks. Instead of getting too bummed out about this, I focused my attention on more <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CZRq172Obx-/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">nesting</a></b> and childbirth and parenting books. Now we're in the last couple weeks and really hoping to meet a healthy baby Capri before the month is over. Did I mention I'm trying for a natural birth? Wish me luck!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Update:</b> I was induced on Valentine's Day for low amniotic fluid. I was in labor from the night of 2/14 to the morning of 2/17, mostly trying natural methods to move things along. It was taking forever to dilate, so I ended up getting pitocin, which really made contractions unbearable. I got an epidural on Wednesday, and Capri was born at 4:50 a.m. Thursday at 5lb 12oz and 20 inches long. We're both happy and healthy.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>The nursery photos were taken at 33 weeks, and the maternity photos were taken at 34 weeks in our backyard when it decided to snow for one day in Georgia. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/_W9S8owGgf/" target="_blank">This dress</a> was last worn in 2015.</i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh08pD0Ug1LuC6NJzEf-YNY-kvOp1COX-_opnFK3m8Tnu0JD2QN59TBCZKAPSvNcNWfHkOLx6x0eWL4DGhKmqBp0Pcg5oEPAF-hNgcG69AIImAw_Y9NQ66jyuSj_EAc-Iq9etHavSWmefZ109m-hGsX8JZrguoijq4gLUHQZ1r2C54gmvl-DDJnD9xCRA=s5085" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5085" data-original-width="3116" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh08pD0Ug1LuC6NJzEf-YNY-kvOp1COX-_opnFK3m8Tnu0JD2QN59TBCZKAPSvNcNWfHkOLx6x0eWL4DGhKmqBp0Pcg5oEPAF-hNgcG69AIImAw_Y9NQ66jyuSj_EAc-Iq9etHavSWmefZ109m-hGsX8JZrguoijq4gLUHQZ1r2C54gmvl-DDJnD9xCRA=s5085" width="800" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Above are items that are in my actual boho neutral nursery. Below are either the same or similar pieces.</div><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>
<div data-sc-widget-id="P-61d0b3a1a96a87530358fb1e"></div><script async="" src="//widgets.shopstyle.com/shopstyle-widget-snippet.js"></script>Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-60091269604019259512021-10-14T04:00:00.701-07:002021-10-14T04:00:00.189-07:00Experience Toccoa: Babymoon in the North Georgia Mountains<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQmcnQSIrj1UtWRwjbsMDgEgyvYWBtYrCo05tHPB2_GDv07n3V0T6TFpmpwY2kSOOk6SLaPhzqLPfVVRxeM8x8T3D3RKO1aQF4tu4aTOYgZS3JkBQAT8BrQfNwvVHnoXcgzIGRfIac2Fcu/s2048/currahee_club.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQmcnQSIrj1UtWRwjbsMDgEgyvYWBtYrCo05tHPB2_GDv07n3V0T6TFpmpwY2kSOOk6SLaPhzqLPfVVRxeM8x8T3D3RKO1aQF4tu4aTOYgZS3JkBQAT8BrQfNwvVHnoXcgzIGRfIac2Fcu/s2048/currahee_club.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;">Recently, I took a weekend trip to "<b><a href="https://www.toccoagachamber.com/explore" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Explore Toccoa</a>"</b> -- a beautiful, small town in northeast Georgia -- and to share my experience. I've been up to northern Georgia before when I visited Dicks Creek Falls and Amicalola Falls, but I had never been to Toccoa. I'm so glad that Tyler and I were able to spend a weekend there for our <b>babymoon</b> (surprise!), especially in the autumn season. If there's one thing you have to love about Georgia, it's that it's absolutely stunning in the fall with the changing leaves. I didn't get to enjoy that when I lived in Florida, Arizona, or even California.</p><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>A Serene Stay at Currahee Club</b></h3><p style="text-align: left;">We checked into a clubhouse suite at <b><a href="https://curraheeclub.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Currahee Club</a></b> on a Friday evening. Modern comforts greeted us with a private setting nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains along the shores of Lake Hartwell -- the "Great Lake of the South." A quiet, mountain-lake life? Sign us up!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQpNy6QRl_muXs98UUfXd2TpTr95WOInBamFLuGSkuVMQqYjWxcHoWbwYQAzhwMXZeItQ6Qoqadl0EW12_ZCRrdocCRPkvW2j2PnFBaHbPjOdS1-78e2FjFUl3ieKVxEHhgPDPviMZo5Eg/s1752/currahee_club_toccoa.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1179" data-original-width="1752" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQpNy6QRl_muXs98UUfXd2TpTr95WOInBamFLuGSkuVMQqYjWxcHoWbwYQAzhwMXZeItQ6Qoqadl0EW12_ZCRrdocCRPkvW2j2PnFBaHbPjOdS1-78e2FjFUl3ieKVxEHhgPDPviMZo5Eg/s1752/currahee_club_toccoa.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;">Currahee Club offers amenities like tennis courts, a gym, a golf course, and fine dining. We stayed in a beautiful room with a grand view of the golf course and lake. I couldn't think of a more relaxing spot during my second trimester of pregnancy. Currahee Club also has the upper echelon of hospitality and staff. Everyone knew my name, was friendly, and was more than accommodating. Huge thank you to Sandi, Rachel, Mike, Tracy, Tammy, and Samantha.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGvyUXA-FpInZVYFvFF85wbn6IJ8gmsxNNqYKy-idP3HDf3HBsD26SUK0CAO6VN5nboTB-PXD5HGXoQ0Pd5qXH8Ov_HKWCftFuQz51J0zVtPq343KS2Knnmv3pVFqg2bifnGjlWX9z8Ujy/s2048/historic_ritz_theatre.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1340" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGvyUXA-FpInZVYFvFF85wbn6IJ8gmsxNNqYKy-idP3HDf3HBsD26SUK0CAO6VN5nboTB-PXD5HGXoQ0Pd5qXH8Ov_HKWCftFuQz51J0zVtPq343KS2Knnmv3pVFqg2bifnGjlWX9z8Ujy/s2048/historic_ritz_theatre.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;">Our night continued with live music at the <b><a href="https://www.ritztheatretoccoa.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Historic Ritz Theatre</a>, </b>where Edgar Loudermilk bluegrass performed. He even did a bluegrass cover of one of my favorite gospel hymns, "It Is Well with My Soul." The Ritz features a variety of acts throughout the year, including an Elton John tribute show and jazz ensembles.</p><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>Boardwalk Picnics at Lake Toccoa</b></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAWl6vEmSI2tRUVSiqr02PrMF4CpQ0E2Wmmet40PGfzXdn8GS1O9klPYOa-VDS1gQQT4L9awHeJ_DBzGEg9x4zBsqntwi8gQhMezGUuU48q_vFPJBqzZrLne6sFvpy4ChxuuXkUf6egBDw/s1577/currahee_club_fazio_pub.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="1577" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAWl6vEmSI2tRUVSiqr02PrMF4CpQ0E2Wmmet40PGfzXdn8GS1O9klPYOa-VDS1gQQT4L9awHeJ_DBzGEg9x4zBsqntwi8gQhMezGUuU48q_vFPJBqzZrLne6sFvpy4ChxuuXkUf6egBDw/s1577/currahee_club_fazio_pub.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;">We woke up to the beautiful scenery of Currahee Club before feasting on a lovely French toast and yogurt breakfast. Then we headed toward <b><a href="https://www.mainstreettoccoa.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Main Street</a></b> in downtown Toccoa. We explored the restaurants, boutiques, and galleries and truly experienced the historic downtown vibe. You can also enjoy events like a Sip-n-Stroll, Harvest Festival, and more. One of the boutiques we loved was <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/angeloakhome" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Angel Oak Home</a></b>. If you're a fan of home décor like I am, then this is the place to stop by. We ended up picking up a lovely accent pillow and throw blanket to display in the baby's nursery.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUnbXnvDRaDlDUICNt4QiX7smyK_W9cc_ViwLUdknndySsuRk5Hxi6Ouu9PvMaQ0GH5fYnZoHH_QAcbh4ylyN_IOLfrpMzdQ3v53uUrwgyGP-79lgLah1mEglZqAl00s-xt8HwQcrgKhH8/s1639/main_street_toccoa.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1092" data-original-width="1639" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUnbXnvDRaDlDUICNt4QiX7smyK_W9cc_ViwLUdknndySsuRk5Hxi6Ouu9PvMaQ0GH5fYnZoHH_QAcbh4ylyN_IOLfrpMzdQ3v53uUrwgyGP-79lgLah1mEglZqAl00s-xt8HwQcrgKhH8/s1639/main_street_toccoa.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;">Then we were off to <b>Lake Toccoa</b> for a boardwalk stroll. It's a pretty place for a nature walk or even an outdoor wedding. In the summer, you can take a paddleboat across the water as well.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP50rzmoCnyTqgNxrN76KLAhiVrrotYeq5E6JNK-ewVTHHWugF-YbaJw_ycMg8Eggg-y73ATC40FKbpyYaFmHMKFZmq7xREhM742nCY4kBnzfwz0Esw4FM8OkoMWR0XAoSzeAGtgEPB75V/s2048/lake_toccoa.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP50rzmoCnyTqgNxrN76KLAhiVrrotYeq5E6JNK-ewVTHHWugF-YbaJw_ycMg8Eggg-y73ATC40FKbpyYaFmHMKFZmq7xREhM742nCY4kBnzfwz0Esw4FM8OkoMWR0XAoSzeAGtgEPB75V/s2048/lake_toccoa.jpg" width="800" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">20 weeks pregnant</span></i></div></div><p style="text-align: left;">After building up an appetite on the boardwalk, we stopped at <b><a href="https://www.pingsgrill.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ping's Grill</a></b> for a pavilion picnic lunch. This Toccoa staple is said to feature the best burger in town, which I just had to try (and would recommend as you can see I almost finished it before I remembered to photograph it). It also boasts a variety of pimento cheese options which if you know anything about Georgia, you know that pimento cheese is just as southern and esteemed as sweet tea!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZSf7uH858L_N4HzoMfVhK05B05uXk5LZjZluEphm4DDQOt7yOH_vz9_9ZsHzlWTaz0EwMx0NByol05ng73Huof4GE79ijxYInsfKrZZYoeaWCIG6nKzDIdKHX84YmHfvcTIPdF024dUu8/s1946/pings_grill_toccoa.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1297" data-original-width="1946" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZSf7uH858L_N4HzoMfVhK05B05uXk5LZjZluEphm4DDQOt7yOH_vz9_9ZsHzlWTaz0EwMx0NByol05ng73Huof4GE79ijxYInsfKrZZYoeaWCIG6nKzDIdKHX84YmHfvcTIPdF024dUu8/s1946/pings_grill_toccoa.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;">We then stopped by <b><a href="https://www.curraheevineyards.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Currahee Vineyards</a></b> -- a family-owned winery with hand-crafted wines from Muscadine and other native grapes. Although my husband is Italian, we didn't partake (for obvious reasons), so we were happy to enjoy the live music at the winery while surrounded by the backdrop of <b>Currahee Mountain</b>. Fun fact: Currahee Mountain is the first mountain in the Blue Ridge chain.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE0eiKchz6WWYUT67pEirZHm0IeE55cYBI2d_No8ryXz8l77q82x9AcS13wD-1GdFOohACUubObtf35NDylgHZ68IeUmsBGtpCb_HKTi0hQQpAYcOGpJR6i4ZAnt6NgIqFjiMf9uUyqcnC/s1968/currahee_vineyards_and_winery.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1312" data-original-width="1968" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE0eiKchz6WWYUT67pEirZHm0IeE55cYBI2d_No8ryXz8l77q82x9AcS13wD-1GdFOohACUubObtf35NDylgHZ68IeUmsBGtpCb_HKTi0hQQpAYcOGpJR6i4ZAnt6NgIqFjiMf9uUyqcnC/s1968/currahee_vineyards_and_winery.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZIJFbzwhWBO0RlpDBnPx8zEXgdyJ4b1gmfXfw-y15Tat9spyd5ZeAZR-6bx0Rvwjh35gmfHjjxS8gQ65UA86PgEOpfAeabYgNaQHvH5p9v1UTDNzNV-v_GOJWmBupfnyh5OtsIF5DfGI/s1660/currahee_mountain.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1107" data-original-width="1660" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaZIJFbzwhWBO0RlpDBnPx8zEXgdyJ4b1gmfXfw-y15Tat9spyd5ZeAZR-6bx0Rvwjh35gmfHjjxS8gQ65UA86PgEOpfAeabYgNaQHvH5p9v1UTDNzNV-v_GOJWmBupfnyh5OtsIF5DfGI/s1660/currahee_mountain.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;">After a repose back in our room, we took a golf cart tour of Currahee Club, where we got to see all the amenities, the 18-hole course, and the beautiful custom-built homes. Each home had unique, modern features and lush backdrops.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpFLSJNHEdw9l_UnvL87_TFRfSc8bm1kuBGZ-WUGwUJBK6uBTpBg155eW3ukOys2eIcym6uY8wA_lIuhyPCmvg36qdyerZT1w7lRPDX9ZeBrrOnkX0P8KdTUZPukjLjdkH4_1t3R61u9R7/s2664/currahee_club_overlook_dining_room.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1180" data-original-width="2664" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpFLSJNHEdw9l_UnvL87_TFRfSc8bm1kuBGZ-WUGwUJBK6uBTpBg155eW3ukOys2eIcym6uY8wA_lIuhyPCmvg36qdyerZT1w7lRPDX9ZeBrrOnkX0P8KdTUZPukjLjdkH4_1t3R61u9R7/s2664/currahee_club_overlook_dining_room.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;">We then enjoyed a lovely dinner at the Club's <b>Overlook Dining Room</b>. The chef treated Tyler and me to a special menu, where he got a hearty ribeye dish while I savored a delicious duck pasta. Dessert was a gorgeously decorated lemon cake. Currahee Club certainly spared no expense when it came to the food or accommodations.</p><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>Ending on a High at Toccoa Falls</b></h3><p style="text-align: left;">Our morning began with a trip to the <b><a href="https://www.toccoahistory.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Currahee Military Museum</a></b>, which celebrates the legacy of Camp Toccoa, where soldiers trained to become WWII paratroopers. <span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The museum highlights the legendary 506th Parachute Infantry Division, nicknamed </span><em style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Easy Company,</em><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> and the famous "three miles up, three miles down" quote. The HBO series <i>Band of Brothers</i> tells this story.</span> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt3wt5C142rXuJUhyYc0bFq6sx1I3Yoqkc8Tb99RHWA5NyDIbRtuHYTjw0u4O2wXGcKWQ-jBRQMDCGERkwtSG6_S-36OCovpDndkyciC1PyHi-0quUCJorTJ67N8dTdhhWjoFecdoq7wS9/s1752/currahee_military_museum.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1173" data-original-width="1752" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt3wt5C142rXuJUhyYc0bFq6sx1I3Yoqkc8Tb99RHWA5NyDIbRtuHYTjw0u4O2wXGcKWQ-jBRQMDCGERkwtSG6_S-36OCovpDndkyciC1PyHi-0quUCJorTJ67N8dTdhhWjoFecdoq7wS9/s1752/currahee_military_museum.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;">We then returned to Currahee Club for Sunday brunch at the <b>Fazio Pub</b>. Although we didn't have the complimentary mimosas, I did indulge in a sausage and egg biscuit and the fluffiest pancake ever. Aside from the pub and the dining room, the Club also offers two other restaurants with garden-to-table inspired cuisine.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHu3TzQSu4AGOw_iaVaPp5P_bmxHsQWduxAZGv2Kv5ty_-Bd3Sck9lPzSzhflSdhJVMTsr0wbYxIwolg3OsmPUzPB_HKUV4YIe3Sl-s6jespSH3B3ciJapsipuHVoYioNlCZh2pfxmSPTU/s1627/toccoa_falls.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1085" data-original-width="1627" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHu3TzQSu4AGOw_iaVaPp5P_bmxHsQWduxAZGv2Kv5ty_-Bd3Sck9lPzSzhflSdhJVMTsr0wbYxIwolg3OsmPUzPB_HKUV4YIe3Sl-s6jespSH3B3ciJapsipuHVoYioNlCZh2pfxmSPTU/s1627/toccoa_falls.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;">With Sunday being the last day of our babymoon, we opted for an outdoor adventure at <b><a href="https://tfc.edu/about/our-campus/toccoa-falls/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Toccoa Falls</a></b>. Toccoa in Stephens County is home to miles of trails for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. One of the benefits of visiting in the fall is witnessing the leaves change with a picturesque setting in nature. There are many waterfalls in Georgia, and Toccoa Falls is one of the best. It drops 186 feet into the Toccoa Creek and is one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls east of the Mississippi. The falls are also a well-known destination for photoshoots and weddings, so put it on your list the next time you plan a trip to Georgia for some Instagram-worthy shots.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhink8iBF_IIZw7DThaFNRx9n5x41gxdxfO9JJyqaoP8mDSM5wjKRWAEgwApCOg4APhfK80soGeWao4lOoAJhxrB-Iu8tLSq0zOcxSlJSJuYje7TdA9LmksSoB-87epyfrzpId-qz6EwfsM/s2048/currahee_club_toccoa_georgia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhink8iBF_IIZw7DThaFNRx9n5x41gxdxfO9JJyqaoP8mDSM5wjKRWAEgwApCOg4APhfK80soGeWao4lOoAJhxrB-Iu8tLSq0zOcxSlJSJuYje7TdA9LmksSoB-87epyfrzpId-qz6EwfsM/s2048/currahee_club_toccoa_georgia.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;">Tyler and I loved that we could discover these must-see places in north Georgia while we experienced <b>Toccoa</b>. We couldn't think of a better way to spend a babymoon! Have you been to Toccoa or considered visiting?</p>Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-78026695852606060572021-04-12T08:02:00.005-07:002021-08-17T05:47:48.634-07:00Our Wedding Day: House in the Trees<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZ0O3kT7eAmnqgv_V9EDCzy9G9fLgIvRTHREUealNiTa8L2s7J_2anTIVwyQKbBSj9GN7y0aRWwSgHLLWbQyWdjOtyhJ1ZYeySUqVqsJ0cAu8E7Wx7WkT3Wge6rDm2D-qxUsstFDNkM_Y/s1847/blog-use2.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1148" data-original-width="1847" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZ0O3kT7eAmnqgv_V9EDCzy9G9fLgIvRTHREUealNiTa8L2s7J_2anTIVwyQKbBSj9GN7y0aRWwSgHLLWbQyWdjOtyhJ1ZYeySUqVqsJ0cAu8E7Wx7WkT3Wge6rDm2D-qxUsstFDNkM_Y/s1847/blog-use2.png" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4rjCTNDkZzJQ4vyZSiE2gKr0GQdeP0X3eCNltJXb5z_rJAyW5Qj80nrO6B0bdqzzy_6i37W-5MejblhaONXduf27E0N4fX2vx-XfD0qwTny6-csiqjMujfuCCVkEWxbZIAxQzOVKV_rb/s2048/willowby+watters+capricorn.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4rjCTNDkZzJQ4vyZSiE2gKr0GQdeP0X3eCNltJXb5z_rJAyW5Qj80nrO6B0bdqzzy_6i37W-5MejblhaONXduf27E0N4fX2vx-XfD0qwTny6-csiqjMujfuCCVkEWxbZIAxQzOVKV_rb/s2048/willowby+watters+capricorn.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We always knew we wanted to get married at our house. And with COVID postponing ceremonies and shutting down courthouse nuptials, our house made even more sense as the <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CNhyjULj2uR/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">perfect wedding venue</a></b>. We bought the older-than-me home in early 2020 and spent the better part of a year fixing it up. Granted, it didn't need a ton of work, but it did need to be brought into the 21st Century with my modern farmhouse style. We held the ceremony on the first day of spring in 2021 in our yard. Tyler cut down a small tree to make our wedding arbor, and me and my friend decorated it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU40YP5qm69YObFkKjGHSt0IORmH-rysrWccEbZha6x-OvIAocNbGaHaSQz-dByoaoBEIs6Vh36gnlBHJtRHo1ymm4MAUh-H0vea7XgG8gxNAjyRN4eL2na8XpyrTnEpytcZTQ9mn-7qSk/s2537/blog-use1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1240" data-original-width="2537" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU40YP5qm69YObFkKjGHSt0IORmH-rysrWccEbZha6x-OvIAocNbGaHaSQz-dByoaoBEIs6Vh36gnlBHJtRHo1ymm4MAUh-H0vea7XgG8gxNAjyRN4eL2na8XpyrTnEpytcZTQ9mn-7qSk/s2537/blog-use1.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM1cs3ibJWCzMQGMeJRa2J58xdPFxdg1qFcSe9J1FBk8h1sg5vs53H8ecFLqTcRMxvYLMyGSoc4q3yHfkdDdO0cTRRqYadUxClyg3dKzsQc-pCJRKEgJcG0puBDjq1NnJ-jE1s4u5R9F1D/s2048/blog-use3.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1358" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM1cs3ibJWCzMQGMeJRa2J58xdPFxdg1qFcSe9J1FBk8h1sg5vs53H8ecFLqTcRMxvYLMyGSoc4q3yHfkdDdO0cTRRqYadUxClyg3dKzsQc-pCJRKEgJcG0puBDjq1NnJ-jE1s4u5R9F1D/s2048/blog-use3.png" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Vgg6aF32-5yBTYXqdKaBZIQXAWQkRxWfTdRHqRtltJpKyxnXf7zLwWy583fwSFw73vavwsTV74bJbvpDnlY4U7cqyfj4a4VgeZtlkaDzPKha-_Hif0JWQvhrkIKA3H_U-8f9_BLyjAEj/s1372/tyler-aisle.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1372" data-original-width="913" height="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Vgg6aF32-5yBTYXqdKaBZIQXAWQkRxWfTdRHqRtltJpKyxnXf7zLwWy583fwSFw73vavwsTV74bJbvpDnlY4U7cqyfj4a4VgeZtlkaDzPKha-_Hif0JWQvhrkIKA3H_U-8f9_BLyjAEj/s1372/tyler-aisle.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A couple days before the ceremony, Tyler's family helped move our furniture to the basement, and my family helped decorate the tables and chairs for the reception. This was not a traditional wedding. Instead of having a wedding cake, we had a variety of cakes and cheesecakes from our favorite local bakery, <b><a href="https://www.zukerinopastryshop.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Zukerino Pastry Shop</a></b>. There were no groomsmen or bridesmaids, but we did have our nieces and nephew walk down the aisle. My childhood friend officiated the wedding -- after getting ordained just two days before the ceremony.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmZAPeRww-MvXdbevpG4umYgRjm9TwM0RvFY2hhcB5wAaw7ZRMU46TygoMlygCx0KTPT54z-fKgbWx7fHYLq_ufsovBFkrqzUgcZgZL7x3r7pLp5Gb5gSNKfHhoLPnzhz18Jq6ZsCuYDhT/s2048/Atlanta-backyard-wedding-243.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmZAPeRww-MvXdbevpG4umYgRjm9TwM0RvFY2hhcB5wAaw7ZRMU46TygoMlygCx0KTPT54z-fKgbWx7fHYLq_ufsovBFkrqzUgcZgZL7x3r7pLp5Gb5gSNKfHhoLPnzhz18Jq6ZsCuYDhT/s2048/Atlanta-backyard-wedding-243.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp8Hh7zjP6KlwM9Hb5dXis0-DHi2lgYTPUleyUFGtfibQtl0Y3FBT5rrbrA6LLRnNUXFTZlSRN1aMI_GRF6z9MupVNHkg258iE3fwQiTnB1nu3ECPlHfz7sPu9PCF-nmY8hugnJrwLB9rS/s2048/Atlanta-backyard-wedding-269.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp8Hh7zjP6KlwM9Hb5dXis0-DHi2lgYTPUleyUFGtfibQtl0Y3FBT5rrbrA6LLRnNUXFTZlSRN1aMI_GRF6z9MupVNHkg258iE3fwQiTnB1nu3ECPlHfz7sPu9PCF-nmY8hugnJrwLB9rS/s2048/Atlanta-backyard-wedding-269.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p><b>Photography by:</b> <a href="https://ruzincunningham.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ruzin Cunningham</a> -- we were already following each other on Instagram before I asked her to be my photographer. She takes gorgeous, moody pictures, and also specializes in elopements and small weddings.</p><p><b>Dress by:</b> <a href="https://www.bhldn.com/search?q=willowby+by+watters+hearst+gown" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bhldn</a> -- I initially fell in love with their Willowby by Watters Hearst gown. Saw it online, loved it, tried it on in store, bought it in silver. But then I saw their Willow by Watters Capricorn gown on the website (sold out now). I knew I had to try it on. So, there I was, an owner of two wedding dresses. I ultimately decided on the Capricorn gown.</p><p><b>Makeup by:</b> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lesliereidmakeup/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Leslie Reid Makeup</a> -- since I'm no makeup artist, I decided to leave this to a professional. She came to my home, masked and shielded, and proceeded to beat my face for two hours. The end result was beautiful.</p><p><b>Hair by:</b> <a href="https://www.essenceofbraiding.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dionne James of Essence of Braids</a> -- my hair was done by my local hairstylist who has been doing my hair since I moved to Atlanta. I went with my signature side braids, of course.</p><p><b>Bouquet by:</b> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bridalwish/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bridal Wish on Etsy</a> -- my bouquet and other decor pieces for the wedding came from Etsy. I went with this vendor because they had what I was looking for in a bouquet: dried flowers, silk roses, pampas grass in earth tones.</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsfHX0D4GppGy9yVh9BPh7yNzWZhnibqTl1BNtLTvi50tLvonP93bCbSy2uT0tP3xT_WiRmJ-4apCEPfEylK90fSHlMJWonGo2MOofLQjoSOeHVH_biRKsFOrZMuaNW58vWtnIAYxxraF8/s1365/use-for-pin.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="913" height="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsfHX0D4GppGy9yVh9BPh7yNzWZhnibqTl1BNtLTvi50tLvonP93bCbSy2uT0tP3xT_WiRmJ-4apCEPfEylK90fSHlMJWonGo2MOofLQjoSOeHVH_biRKsFOrZMuaNW58vWtnIAYxxraF8/s1365/use-for-pin.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTOm0jUQLx52Q4FHyczxytwy_ixroTVpbW9ZkS7m3XZQ459__q9p5yuGJVELAm1tUakc1Y1GvvYSPjECM5xp4YfJu54cUdSYLnjDPYb-Lb_4RCjhPEUVCI-O0MelMvb87-f7uOHIEduKx7/s2048/Atlanta-backyard-wedding-408.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTOm0jUQLx52Q4FHyczxytwy_ixroTVpbW9ZkS7m3XZQ459__q9p5yuGJVELAm1tUakc1Y1GvvYSPjECM5xp4YfJu54cUdSYLnjDPYb-Lb_4RCjhPEUVCI-O0MelMvb87-f7uOHIEduKx7/s2048/Atlanta-backyard-wedding-408.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF59fqBMLI1xlG4eaHE1bRI1ddnEaNKvvoUfnvQFw5WsHe111i75EoA8vipwVmh_xz_JaPJennGhIYAgE12L0gs0txZ8ui7EWAvdN3aDIn4NHTIs0q9mi3dK_kw25utlTwkdo9Mnugm7uo/s2048/Atlanta-backyard-wedding-420.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1398" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF59fqBMLI1xlG4eaHE1bRI1ddnEaNKvvoUfnvQFw5WsHe111i75EoA8vipwVmh_xz_JaPJennGhIYAgE12L0gs0txZ8ui7EWAvdN3aDIn4NHTIs0q9mi3dK_kw25utlTwkdo9Mnugm7uo/s2048/Atlanta-backyard-wedding-420.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><br />Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-43878568250897830272021-03-08T07:00:00.001-08:002021-03-08T07:00:05.760-08:00My Samsung Refrigerator 8 Month Review<p style="text-align: center;"><span><span><i>In collaboration with SamsungUS</i></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB409Q4Fnr1wNzpbq7ipHIS2xHQ66_yPK-Pk5POd9Cuz6W1Am-wzH_AP_a25z80vdaBLTCmoFr0pe4z2E1HfbqK6n-820uCIIp5zFHbfoLXh4vcveUUbFJ9ibjWo1hugytIAXpMkVCERNu/s2048/blog1-ohtobeamuse.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB409Q4Fnr1wNzpbq7ipHIS2xHQ66_yPK-Pk5POd9Cuz6W1Am-wzH_AP_a25z80vdaBLTCmoFr0pe4z2E1HfbqK6n-820uCIIp5zFHbfoLXh4vcveUUbFJ9ibjWo1hugytIAXpMkVCERNu/s2048/blog1-ohtobeamuse.jpg" width="800" /></a></span></div><span><span><span>It's
now been eight months since I've had my <b><a href="https://www.samsung.com/us/home-appliances/refrigerators/side-by-side/26-7-cu-ft-large-capacity-side-by-side-refrigerator-with-touch-screen-family-hub--in-stainless-steel-rs27t5561sr-aa" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Samsung Family Hub</a></b></span></span><b><a href="https://www.samsung.com/us/home-appliances/refrigerators/side-by-side/26-7-cu-ft-large-capacity-side-by-side-refrigerator-with-touch-screen-family-hub--in-stainless-steel-rs27t5561sr-aa" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1c1c1c;">™</span>
</a></b><span><span><b><a href="https://www.samsung.com/us/home-appliances/refrigerators/side-by-side/26-7-cu-ft-large-capacity-side-by-side-refrigerator-with-touch-screen-family-hub--in-stainless-steel-rs27t5561sr-aa" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">
Refrigerator</a></b>. As you might recall, I updated my kitchen last summer,
and one of the updates included replacing the old white fridge with
this stainless steel refrigerator. This smart kitchen appliance has
been the perfect addition to my home. It fits beautifully into my
kitchen while also offering unique features.</span></span></span><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVLK_3IZPCKAp0fQ6vpWMNYvkiy4YN26593NCjWrF8nt2UvPrvOtLPMuDUilVekd0CTcaMRAQiDhbomK-eRYHoZtNCKCldGzaQoqqNVfaW6yVPr7-s1YkSHUqavjYtS1jZ-psOIPrrFWR/s2048/pin5-ohtobeamuse.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiVLK_3IZPCKAp0fQ6vpWMNYvkiy4YN26593NCjWrF8nt2UvPrvOtLPMuDUilVekd0CTcaMRAQiDhbomK-eRYHoZtNCKCldGzaQoqqNVfaW6yVPr7-s1YkSHUqavjYtS1jZ-psOIPrrFWR/s2048/pin5-ohtobeamuse.jpg" /></a></span></span></div><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Even
though it might not be the first thing you think about when referring
to a fridge, my favorite feature about my Family Hub<span style="color: #1c1c1c;">™</span> is the
entertainment value. I probably play Spotify music from my fridge every other day. I also like that I can use the touchscreen to organize calendars and to see inside without opening the door. This fridge is Energy Star rated, and being able to look inside the fridge without opening it helps conserve cooling. I can also make a smart grocery list right from the comfort of the touchscreen that syncs with my phone.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigL_vv5hMBdIHTilBPhkj8cUTgJCO4hE0Q8Buv5bFLsM8gfUWaZd4DfQ3Vn0uzzQGv_CVSxkcCrM0CoL-OqbNKJwrQ3YHqq8Z-PNmiaqLg4Hfsms4_2jQkZ4J9yga6N1tnGFuNQkPCuGc3/s2048/pin9-ohtobeamuse.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigL_vv5hMBdIHTilBPhkj8cUTgJCO4hE0Q8Buv5bFLsM8gfUWaZd4DfQ3Vn0uzzQGv_CVSxkcCrM0CoL-OqbNKJwrQ3YHqq8Z-PNmiaqLg4Hfsms4_2jQkZ4J9yga6N1tnGFuNQkPCuGc3/s2048/pin9-ohtobeamuse.jpg" /></a></div><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I
would say that the recipe feature has helped me with meal planning,
but we all know that I don't cook! But my fiancé does get a lot of
good ideas from the ever-changing recipes that show up. This modern
fridge also offers easy fridge organization with removable
and adjustable drawers and dividers. </p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">And
since we're still spending most of our time at home these days,
having a smart fridge like my Samsung Family Hub<span style="color: #1c1c1c;">™</span> has really become an
essential part of my everyday life. It's important to feel
comfortable in your home and at ease with every appliance in your home
now more than ever. I can certainly say that I'm looking forward to
this Samsung Family Hub<span style="color: #1c1c1c;">™</span> Refrigerator making my life easier for years
to come.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSkxhTDkCclrzFSJcaluNL_9eq2IBMzpMHU0W9ohbYh8vXARGiKc2V4rLEuSQL7ie4Jy8tAiGu3boCWWI66hVi3CmQ-g2T-lPxLSM6NWwOstWROGzP-eVPeb5mCGmg3C7o9zjkNXBedUQw/s2048/blog2-ohtobeamuse.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSkxhTDkCclrzFSJcaluNL_9eq2IBMzpMHU0W9ohbYh8vXARGiKc2V4rLEuSQL7ie4Jy8tAiGu3boCWWI66hVi3CmQ-g2T-lPxLSM6NWwOstWROGzP-eVPeb5mCGmg3C7o9zjkNXBedUQw/s2048/blog2-ohtobeamuse.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-85685984858392017882021-02-02T02:11:00.001-08:002021-02-02T06:36:29.620-08:00Periods Made Easy with U by Kotex® Click® Tampons<p style="text-align: center;"><i>This post is sponsored by Kotex<span face=""Open Sans", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #515457; font-size: 16px; text-align: left;">®</span>, but all opinions are my own</i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxfaR7Mqp07QIAhAXGTaEta6TeVOB8zbBqRRcUmlS3atHlLwX__qgv2MjUxrdMpVwgwemYt3v_bJg5QQU8BDy5LuyKLbJYkLt6exGOX39f-FfFlxLNd5D-dCfmWRp8RQDXHOwmfNAPmm4v/s2048/kotex-blog1-ohtobeamuse.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxfaR7Mqp07QIAhAXGTaEta6TeVOB8zbBqRRcUmlS3atHlLwX__qgv2MjUxrdMpVwgwemYt3v_bJg5QQU8BDy5LuyKLbJYkLt6exGOX39f-FfFlxLNd5D-dCfmWRp8RQDXHOwmfNAPmm4v/s2048/kotex-blog1-ohtobeamuse.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>If you're looking for a way to mah.ke your periods easier, then consider starting with a change in your tampon. The new <b><a href="http://bit.ly/3cpdqma" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">U by Kotex<span face=""Open Sans", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #515457; font-size: 16px;">®</span> Click<span face=""Open Sans", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #515457; font-size: 16px;">®</span> Tampons</a></b> are here to help you live your best life by offering both comfort and ease during that time of the month.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI2MfnJEu_0fYs97VjDdJa2MgfM7XoUNlc8nbzvDUVbYpspBmN5HCHh1PUCwNF4lcS7Ji8JmXlQ50MTZCNPCSf_eyZiCN4KJ4UROwf8wOZd_2sT02E0HXNBegibVb_-R5WvDZ8OvL7oLw_/s2048/kotex-blog2-ohtobeamuse.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI2MfnJEu_0fYs97VjDdJa2MgfM7XoUNlc8nbzvDUVbYpspBmN5HCHh1PUCwNF4lcS7Ji8JmXlQ50MTZCNPCSf_eyZiCN4KJ4UROwf8wOZd_2sT02E0HXNBegibVb_-R5WvDZ8OvL7oLw_/s2048/kotex-blog2-ohtobeamuse.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>You might think that all tampons are the same -- they do the same job. But based on experience, that's really not the case. Some are very comfortable but don't provide enough protection, while others are sturdy but awkward. It can seem like a Goldilocks and the Three Bears situation, where you're simply trying to find the tampon that's just right for you. Back in the day, pads were my go-to because they were easy to use and because tampons weren't comfortable. But as we all know, pads aren't always the most reliable. With the Kotex Click, my mind is at ease knowing that I'm getting the best of both worlds when it comes to comfort and absorbency. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHkYI__XEhZOhQkRUJvhff88gWxWEoAPXSemg5R3TUMpRArFEOkmlOpMTqnvMdrzDhlu2ye0hY62B0GeFi4Fh5CRpgC57ZzGe8xm7HDB0ciR9ps9557iK2q76Yun9VhFXTOzMvD6GfZXkJ/s2048/kotex-blog3-ohtobeamuse.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHkYI__XEhZOhQkRUJvhff88gWxWEoAPXSemg5R3TUMpRArFEOkmlOpMTqnvMdrzDhlu2ye0hY62B0GeFi4Fh5CRpgC57ZzGe8xm7HDB0ciR9ps9557iK2q76Yun9VhFXTOzMvD6GfZXkJ/s2048/kotex-blog3-ohtobeamuse.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>Being the #1 compact that absorbs like a full-size tampon, the Kotex Click packs a punch without taking up much room. Its compact size allows it to be small enough for you to carry in your pocket or bag. When you're ready to use it, you can turn it into a full-size tampon by simply pulling the lower half until it clicks. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCD8GJ28KO4ehZlWtYBCm0nKQ2xQ7CXBv9J4iSiINuGru2i8W1vZojTVQldv7cwkarMf83YtSDp5vqFJz2F9Z1rPZYCMzBID8Ta-Ng8FX_PYhNSc3Ydm92mvHW_zVmTaLhShq_kpQhkd87/s2048/kotex-blog4-ohtobeamuse.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCD8GJ28KO4ehZlWtYBCm0nKQ2xQ7CXBv9J4iSiINuGru2i8W1vZojTVQldv7cwkarMf83YtSDp5vqFJz2F9Z1rPZYCMzBID8Ta-Ng8FX_PYhNSc3Ydm92mvHW_zVmTaLhShq_kpQhkd87/s2048/kotex-blog4-ohtobeamuse.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>The Kotex Click has a smooth tip that adds to the comfort while also having the ability to fully expand for ultimate coverage and up to 100% leak-free protection. Click tampons are unscented, individually wrapped, and available in regular, super, or super plus sizes.</p><p>You can get them in a small pack of 16 as I did or opt for a pack of 32 or 45. <a href="http://bit.ly/3cpdqma" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">And they're now available for purchase via <b>Walmart Online Pickup & Delivery</b> services or in stores</a>, so pick some up today so you'll be ready when it's your time of the month. Have you tried Click tampons before?</p>Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-58864345807979817012020-11-30T02:26:00.008-08:002020-11-30T02:55:21.881-08:00Give Back This Season with Walmart Holiday Gift Bundles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO7ZeA26ZxgsXyZ_DDVBnXyy46doEVByaFyxrhYzeUeoyDw-13wz4zYSKkkD-kWF5wYsnaB5p9eTFJsBkyFNlzMVyc1yr1f48n_c3vxTAOLTIOCJwCsUgmdUK05UbE5UTrzwzO1j8KFnX4/s2048/blog2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO7ZeA26ZxgsXyZ_DDVBnXyy46doEVByaFyxrhYzeUeoyDw-13wz4zYSKkkD-kWF5wYsnaB5p9eTFJsBkyFNlzMVyc1yr1f48n_c3vxTAOLTIOCJwCsUgmdUK05UbE5UTrzwzO1j8KFnX4/s2048/blog2.jpg" width="800" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><i>This post is sponsored, but all opinions are my own.</i></div></div><p>2020 really has been an unforgettable year. With everything that's happened so far, I couldn't be happier to end the year with a welcomed holiday season. But instead of doing a typical gifting post with guides tailored for friends and loved ones, I thought it would be nice to focus on some pay-it-forward self-care bundles. This season, I'm encouraging you to stop by your local <b><i><a href="https://bit.ly/36nn2cc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;">Walmart</span></a></i></b>, purchase a few of their gift packs, and then donate them to families in need.</p><p>We all know the power of self care by now. From meditating to treating yourself to something nice, self care can really brighten your mood and improve your overall mental health. If it can do that for you, imagine how far it can go for someone truly in need? Walmart has gift packs and holiday bundles with some of the best self-care brands around, including Olay, Gillette, Pantene, Old Spice and more.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcBXj_Zzv9RAZ37kEEq9wb1S0KIVuPjlHsp19hfN2u4R1h08CEgyrOT6uWDV8mem7ouvqAUP2WwL4BsZVr6c_Xf0nX4vOVfuRI6qWXr3b6Egsm8nNfLnc_1JmQxCoZb0PvYk4qB3mrCO4v/s2048/blog5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcBXj_Zzv9RAZ37kEEq9wb1S0KIVuPjlHsp19hfN2u4R1h08CEgyrOT6uWDV8mem7ouvqAUP2WwL4BsZVr6c_Xf0nX4vOVfuRI6qWXr3b6Egsm8nNfLnc_1JmQxCoZb0PvYk4qB3mrCO4v/s2048/blog5.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><b>Self-Care Skin Care Products</b></h2><h4 style="text-align: center;"><b>Olay Cleansing & Renewing Body Wash and Rinse-Off Body Conditioner </b><b>with Olay Retinol Holiday Pack</b></h4><div style="text-align: left;">Get a daily indulgence with this self-care trio. We all know that the first step in feeling good is feeling clean. And nothing will get you cleaner than this combo from Olay. The <b>Olay Cleansing & Renewing Nighttime Body Wash</b> is the first step in self care. Supercharged with Retinol and Vitamin B3 Complex, this body wash quenches skin overnight to leave it feeling renewed and radiant in the morning.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Continue with the <b>Olay Nighttime Rinse-Off Body Conditioner</b> that's infused with concentrated moisture. It deeply hydrates overnight to help stop dry skin before it starts. The combination of this body wash and body conditioner will turn your shower into a true at-home spa experience.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPT0pKTKdv3voN90wKLsE59esZjrIkbtnos6c_Oiexlqnn4_ADtAc4Tf8dXul30n_dodph6CyAfZhvH3Yx7kUHMfIQPFMI3a5UPmT2jDEL5cbDhar_UeBJtSB54LBjEpn6PfHT0D4ggjbN/s2048/blog3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPT0pKTKdv3voN90wKLsE59esZjrIkbtnos6c_Oiexlqnn4_ADtAc4Tf8dXul30n_dodph6CyAfZhvH3Yx7kUHMfIQPFMI3a5UPmT2jDEL5cbDhar_UeBJtSB54LBjEpn6PfHT0D4ggjbN/s2048/blog3.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Finish with the <b>Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer</b>. Just like the body wash and conditioner hydrated your skin, this will hydrate your face. Its blend of Vitamin B3 and Retinol works while you sleep and hydrates for 24 hours. It can visibly improve fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and pores, and add smoothness, brightness and firming.</div><h4 style="text-align: center;"><b>Old Spice Swagger Roll On Holiday</b></h4><p>Since I would love for you to purchase a gift pack and then donate a gift pack, I have to include a self-care bundle that's great for guys as well. This Walmart holiday set also includes three items to get you fresh and keep you fresh.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1rWO404pW5H_hZhtYsDCNTdsQaNAfCxoZ1X8jJB5wie5Xbbs_P4SSoTvE1Ir97-rGlCK4snRuVH-6LbWG9wd1dvopVK7gwxvJM1dn0PoMtUVvvwzNuc151qax4kE9V52HTBgTU_QLCHbF/s2048/blog4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1rWO404pW5H_hZhtYsDCNTdsQaNAfCxoZ1X8jJB5wie5Xbbs_P4SSoTvE1Ir97-rGlCK4snRuVH-6LbWG9wd1dvopVK7gwxvJM1dn0PoMtUVvvwzNuc151qax4kE9V52HTBgTU_QLCHbF/s2048/blog4.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>The <b>Old Spice Swagger Scent of Confidence Body Wash</b> is a mix of lime and cedarwood (I don't know any guy who doesn't love the smell of cedar) that cleans away dirt and odor. The <b>Old Spice Refresh Body Spray</b> has smell technology that lasts all day. And the <b>Old Spice On-the-Go Antiperspirant</b> reduces underarm wetness for a no melt, clean scent that keeps you dry all day.</p><p>So, go out and buy some of these self-care holiday sets at Walmart and then gift them to families who have had an especially hard time this year. In the spirit of giving back, I'm hosting a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CINhGfFjKtw/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color: red;"><b>giveaway on my Instagram</b></span></a> where two people can win two $100 Walmart gift cards each for a total of $400. If you win, you can use a gift card to get a gift set for yourself and use the other one to give a gift set to someone else!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpceRGzqmIms1Nj9UmaNZiWwzoTRvAgpAQWKsAHiR9DhZA_moG238DdVb8uBO6Lqk567YZyUNZ_dLRF50qvqHWB2bDc4nqqBXB_mRtXc7MJe4IdgTpOZG5OgbSIz8dA5b89KjDjqBTEB0O/s2048/blog1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpceRGzqmIms1Nj9UmaNZiWwzoTRvAgpAQWKsAHiR9DhZA_moG238DdVb8uBO6Lqk567YZyUNZ_dLRF50qvqHWB2bDc4nqqBXB_mRtXc7MJe4IdgTpOZG5OgbSIz8dA5b89KjDjqBTEB0O/s2048/blog1.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>Giving back couldn't be easier with the one-stop holiday shop at Walmart. Pick out the perfect BAHA Holiday Gift Sets in stores or online at the <a href="https://bit.ly/36nn2cc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: red;"><i>P&G Holiday Shop</i></span></b></a>.</p>Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com52tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-51701942135043569762020-10-13T04:52:00.004-07:002020-10-20T10:22:27.209-07:006 Walmart Foods I Wish I Knew About When I Was Vegetarian<p style="text-align: center;"><i>This blog post is sponsored by ConAgra, Danone, Amy's Kitchen, and Good Food Made Simple.</i></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>All opinions are my own</i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgITL7fSV1SxVdoNBN8PDOWylyWpM193O5cqhtBgJn3JRL9LMK3kxrpUEZe7U6KajqOSFq5thOOHQpFntHmXAEAx9yw12MJOyUMl90It8QPs34uS7tl92N0SwfWHkEJFzj7t0h9vFNj_V82/s2048/blog-post1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgITL7fSV1SxVdoNBN8PDOWylyWpM193O5cqhtBgJn3JRL9LMK3kxrpUEZe7U6KajqOSFq5thOOHQpFntHmXAEAx9yw12MJOyUMl90It8QPs34uS7tl92N0SwfWHkEJFzj7t0h9vFNj_V82/s2048/blog-post1.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>You guys might remember that I was a vegetarian for a year -- from the fall of 2018 to the fall of 2019. During that time, I tried a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and dairy-free products from different brands. Although I'm no longer a vegetarian, I still try to incorporate plant-based foods and no meat days into my lifestyle.</p><p>And to my surprise, Walmart actually has a lot of <b><a href="bit.ly/3j7T4yl" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">options for specialty diets</a></b>. If you're not in the mood to cook (and I never am), but you want to eat something that still adheres to your healthy habits, then give these six items a try!</p><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>So Delicious</b>®<b> Dairy Free Frozen Dessert Bars</b></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmCPeVM-GHC6eTb5veLB40NT-nnjTbbyevGYCkDGIbN0dZSFNK1hMy3yHIfN4gYXmvJ3zgNF2rv7K-Vo9wRuDf5ZbwVaBciy3WGCuAN_HcQHY_nF43NNgcsCETKL50niCLitLP4uBoOkN0/s2048/so-delicious-salted-caramel-bars.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmCPeVM-GHC6eTb5veLB40NT-nnjTbbyevGYCkDGIbN0dZSFNK1hMy3yHIfN4gYXmvJ3zgNF2rv7K-Vo9wRuDf5ZbwVaBciy3WGCuAN_HcQHY_nF43NNgcsCETKL50niCLitLP4uBoOkN0/s2048/so-delicious-salted-caramel-bars.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">I had to start with dessert because that's just who I am as a person. Also, these bars are my favorite things on this entire list. One of my all-time favorite flavors is salted caramel. If I could, I would put that stuff on everything! These taste indulgent, but they're made with plant-based milk and are certified vegan. Honestly, I have nothing but good things to say, so if you only plan on trying one thing from this post, make sure it's these bars.</div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>Good Food Made Simple</b><strong style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #515457; font-family: "Open Sans", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left;">®</strong><b> Cauliflower Kung Pao</b></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSSQPfRPJ9KGL798dw6s6sutZWSC8iHrEZCanafeP2WdtB5KQwQrOjCQdBvPh5EmOZ7i46bEVHoxMaZx0qQqf_Gjb9Tdo4CfcdLR4MY-uZZelyR3se4BlsAQAv0ekow8Evp4qGJ-OPSiF4/s2048/Good+Food+Made+Simple+Cauliflower+Kung+Pao.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSSQPfRPJ9KGL798dw6s6sutZWSC8iHrEZCanafeP2WdtB5KQwQrOjCQdBvPh5EmOZ7i46bEVHoxMaZx0qQqf_Gjb9Tdo4CfcdLR4MY-uZZelyR3se4BlsAQAv0ekow8Evp4qGJ-OPSiF4/s2048/Good+Food+Made+Simple+Cauliflower+Kung+Pao.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>This vegetarian dish is made with rice noodles, veggies, peanuts, and a sweet and spicy sauce. It's coming in at 300 calories, but has 8 grams of protein and is gluten-free. I really loved the taste of the noodles. Noodles are, hands-down, some of my favorite things to eat, plus the veggies are great mix-ins.</p><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>Amy's Kitchen Mac-&-3-Cheese with Cauliflower Bowl</b></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu2GYnHtWp8oR17JwNn92Ik0BJbdZxpBsgrbQhRNznsn6Yyw2teJXA_MvgGSQw-VwU3ImVs69affsppw0Ak3wpS31XbwdMolP1d5Q682lKNOz034hzfyBBocrUJTdxHsRXIDOv0CW213Bt/s2048/Amy%2527s+Kitchen+Mac-N-3-Cheese+with+Cauliflower+Bowl.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu2GYnHtWp8oR17JwNn92Ik0BJbdZxpBsgrbQhRNznsn6Yyw2teJXA_MvgGSQw-VwU3ImVs69affsppw0Ak3wpS31XbwdMolP1d5Q682lKNOz034hzfyBBocrUJTdxHsRXIDOv0CW213Bt/s2048/Amy%2527s+Kitchen+Mac-N-3-Cheese+with+Cauliflower+Bowl.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>If you know anything about vegetarian food, then you know that cauliflower is used as a substitute quite often -- and for good reason. This gluten-free and non-gmo dish is made with organic ingredients. The cauliflower pasta stands out against the three cheese goodness of the white cheddar, Monterey Jack and Parmesan.</p><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>Marie Callender's Plant-Based Chick'n Pot Pie Made With Gardein Plant-Based Chick'n</b></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlyoqPWgWumqt67o9B_bTlDbxcjJuPft-tpNOwoxRosMnB_iDo_6yt8z1i2ijK8QqxZMQ-Z1ptVV67H5zb8yBbzb3OdDuyeliLvu3zYP4UQ4AEEDyBCr_JjugqOFW7K9uSusxcraj-h-Gf/s2048/Marie+Callenders+Plant-Based+Chick%2527n+Pot+Pie.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlyoqPWgWumqt67o9B_bTlDbxcjJuPft-tpNOwoxRosMnB_iDo_6yt8z1i2ijK8QqxZMQ-Z1ptVV67H5zb8yBbzb3OdDuyeliLvu3zYP4UQ4AEEDyBCr_JjugqOFW7K9uSusxcraj-h-Gf/s2048/Marie+Callenders+Plant-Based+Chick%2527n+Pot+Pie.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>OK, this was the item that I was most nervous to try as I've never been into pot pies. But, I did eat a lot of Gardein "chick'n" when I was a vegetarian, and since this is made with it, I had to give it a go. This meat-free take on a classic is the perfect option for a vegetarian during Thanksgiving. A flaky, made-from-scratch crust filled with peas, carrots and celery -- this is definitely an item that I would pick over its meat-based alternative.</p><div><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>Amy's Cheese Veggie Crust Pizza</b></h3></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLruyjxWM5YIP9-up5MHXOS9gO19iwNKWxpEpXF9AjhYYwjECK0GpzwuMWeSeesKj8JM17T6EpElYz_ID6Ji23k8s3KOvjnj6ffLtzUrE2iFsAfOIh6fwZk3rjbe3dIcEiOmeREmOkByh/s2048/Amy%2527s+Kitchen+Veggie+Crust+Cheese+Pizza.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLruyjxWM5YIP9-up5MHXOS9gO19iwNKWxpEpXF9AjhYYwjECK0GpzwuMWeSeesKj8JM17T6EpElYz_ID6Ji23k8s3KOvjnj6ffLtzUrE2iFsAfOIh6fwZk3rjbe3dIcEiOmeREmOkByh/s2048/Amy%2527s+Kitchen+Veggie+Crust+Cheese+Pizza.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>It's really hard to go wrong when it comes to pizza, and this gluten-free version is no exception. The veggie crust is made from broccoli, sweet potato, and -- you guessed it -- cauliflower! The mozzarella just melts over the tomato sauce, making it a great weekend meal for two.</p><h3 style="text-align: center;"><b>Good Food Made Simple</b><strong style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #515457; font-family: "Open Sans", "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left;">®</strong><b> Oats & Ancient Grains Cinnamon French Toast</b></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9rp2URuVvLRUVsoNwn8KDdVtPLVwx4KwIxZQQPTLaDF6gU8r4VCRZnzdq4jUymN_y1BMvmMXuJgdbHDNLW_n4odebJfCTe2KOZb2sGIxsKA0lIi6XIs1yoL0dGCv5RfLTYxk-7g6L4GKg/s2048/Good+Food+Made+Simple+Cinnamon+French+Toast.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9rp2URuVvLRUVsoNwn8KDdVtPLVwx4KwIxZQQPTLaDF6gU8r4VCRZnzdq4jUymN_y1BMvmMXuJgdbHDNLW_n4odebJfCTe2KOZb2sGIxsKA0lIi6XIs1yoL0dGCv5RfLTYxk-7g6L4GKg/s2048/Good+Food+Made+Simple+Cinnamon+French+Toast.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>We started with dessert, so we might as well finish with breakfast. Nutritionally, we're working with 13 grams of protein, 6 grams of fiber and 40 grams of whole grains with this French toast. It's simply delicious. You get to eat bread with whole grains topped with a yummy cinnamon flavor. Feel free to skip the syrup and instead opt for apple slices with more cinnamon drizzled on top.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdy68TEKdrUBpbcn85dO1-Jij85wJydX8WbWHQwBMUshWnOX2tkhi41xJ7RVo04up-igAx2xI8NCJfuJ1LGLfa6MPCgWjZHfWSVDG4fKsdS03inn2zj0KX7kU3ub0dkfko3gd5IBLCcN9g/s2048/blog-post2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdy68TEKdrUBpbcn85dO1-Jij85wJydX8WbWHQwBMUshWnOX2tkhi41xJ7RVo04up-igAx2xI8NCJfuJ1LGLfa6MPCgWjZHfWSVDG4fKsdS03inn2zj0KX7kU3ub0dkfko3gd5IBLCcN9g/s2048/blog-post2.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>These <b><a href="bit.ly/3j7T4yl" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">nutritious Walmart finds</a></b> will fit your food lifestyle, are easy to make (frozen food category), and are budget friendly. Get them in stores or for online pickup and delivery. <b>Which of the six would you most want to try?</b></p><p><b><br /></b></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">This post was featured on <b>Links à la Mode</b> fashion roundup by Independent Fashion Bloggers.</p>
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</ul>Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com46tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-63109405027518611242020-07-02T00:01:00.000-07:002020-07-02T07:32:03.326-07:00Updating My Kitchen with the Samsung Family Hub<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>In collaboration with Samsung Home Appliances</i></div>
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Since I've been living in <a href="https://www.ohtobeamuse.com/search/label/coronavirus" target="_blank">quarantine</a>, it's given me a lot of time to really make this house a home. One way I went about doing that was by remodeling the kitchen. My house was built in 1985 so you can imagine that the kitchen had some old school touches. Two of the biggest issues were the walls and the old appliances. So, I decided to not only get rid of those claustrophobic walls, but to also update the look with a new <b><a href="https://www.samsung.com/us/home-appliances/refrigerators/side-by-side/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Samsung Family Hub refrigerator</a></b>.</div>
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You guys remember my <a href="https://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2019/04/smart-spring-cleaning-samsung-powerbot.html" target="_blank">vacuum from last spring</a>? Well, then you should know that I'm a big Samsung fan. Their Family Hub fridges are not only well made, but also beautifully designed with modern elements. The touch screen on the fridge allows you to search for recipes (quarantine bread, anyone?), play music directly from your phone (the speaker on the fridge is killer), set reminders, leave notes, check the weather, and even see inside your fridge without opening it. So, you don't have to open it every hour just because you're bored. This is a much more sustainable option.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5VrANN0hipoKs7IJ9OR-Qii8ojFUUaTraajSzXayC098JaTQAl1Us4bhmMgTh8yC9LrY_QhhZHxA4Mw3NGvkeIO8eRZqKl_nDBm-7mQhWDb7NH_KvQ_G_vM1pO8V_ejmYyc3vdgNUUQiR/s1600/samsung-home-appliances.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5VrANN0hipoKs7IJ9OR-Qii8ojFUUaTraajSzXayC098JaTQAl1Us4bhmMgTh8yC9LrY_QhhZHxA4Mw3NGvkeIO8eRZqKl_nDBm-7mQhWDb7NH_KvQ_G_vM1pO8V_ejmYyc3vdgNUUQiR/s1600/samsung-home-appliances.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
With fingerprint resistant stainless steel, my <a href="https://www.samsung.com/us/home-appliances/refrigerators/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Samsung Family Hub</b></a> withstands everyday smudges. This side-by-side large capacity refrigerator has a minimal display dispenser that provides water and both crushed and cubed ice.<br />
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The recessed handles keep the doors flat, which is an aesthetically pleasing and functional design. The fridge itself cools evenly from corner to corner, which keeps food fresh longer. Installation of the fridge was also quite easy. The Samsung team came and put the new fridge in while also hauling away and recycling the old one.</div>
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Since I was also in the process of remodeling my kitchen, I opted for the 26.7 cu ft. large capacity fridge so it would fit its new designated space. I removed the walls where the old fridge stood, so the new fridge had to go to the opposite side of the kitchen, yet still leave enough room for the new pantry. Also, I have four windows in my kitchen, so I only had so much room without completely covering one of my windows. Basically, it's the perfect fit.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT7OExi6bZ1HvfAgo4d4D4r_AyPA9k6pgxW1A2hXM46uWzwSIB43ZYsZVcl7FY_QOKmWheQ2-vKwQwAG0q-jIoY0kaij5lSzzyFL7VYxxQ6jEVd53Tk6EUjr3kVc5m8adcb7EmqtSCL-KF/s1600/family-hub-refrigerator.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT7OExi6bZ1HvfAgo4d4D4r_AyPA9k6pgxW1A2hXM46uWzwSIB43ZYsZVcl7FY_QOKmWheQ2-vKwQwAG0q-jIoY0kaij5lSzzyFL7VYxxQ6jEVd53Tk6EUjr3kVc5m8adcb7EmqtSCL-KF/s1600/family-hub-refrigerator.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
The larger capacity allows it to fit more than ever, especially with the ice maker being in the door instead of on the top shelf. You can easily avoid constant trips to the grocery store as one haul can keep your fridge stocked and items fresh.</div>
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For the remodel, I had cedar columns added to replace the load-bearing walls. I then added bamboo floors where the walls were located to match the rest of the flooring. The cabinets from that side of the kitchen were also reformatted as the new kitchen island, where essentially, there wasn't one before. I replaced the old black back splash with white subway tiles and the old laminate counter tops with a white quartz with gray specs. I got rid of the white double bowl drop-in sink and switched it to a <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/biBKp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">stainless steel single bowl undermount</a>. The finishing touches included <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/biBWh" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">washed copper pendant lights</a> with hand blown shades, new bead board ceilings, cedar trim and cedar beams.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWF-hpemL9P4XHZXILO204pSE1k6GmXGzDRFgd4OCQsvgFRSCcMkWjqZFfFm3wzenQ4VNlaNeH8YvCv2J0R8v2H7U2pLcHobIoJUQz1-z2lS7lwLH27u5Hvs_tHcX_FE5M0lX_lpIgnPj_/s1600/kitchen-remodel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWF-hpemL9P4XHZXILO204pSE1k6GmXGzDRFgd4OCQsvgFRSCcMkWjqZFfFm3wzenQ4VNlaNeH8YvCv2J0R8v2H7U2pLcHobIoJUQz1-z2lS7lwLH27u5Hvs_tHcX_FE5M0lX_lpIgnPj_/s1600/kitchen-remodel.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
Overall, I couldn't be happier with my new refrigerator from <a href="https://www.samsung.com/us/home-appliances/" target="_blank"><b>Samsung Home Appliances</b></a>. It's the perfect addition to my new open kitchen. Aside from its many functional features, I also really love playing my music on it while Tyler cooks or I clean. All we need now is a matching dishwasher and range. (<a href="https://photos.zillowstatic.com/uncropped_scaled_within_1536_1152/ISrhingw32371m1000000000.webp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">click here for a photo</a> of the old kitchen)</div>
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What do you think of the Samsung Family Hub and the kitchen remodel?</div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-87674534124523940972020-06-12T09:02:00.000-07:002020-06-14T12:30:39.511-07:00Black Shows on Streaming You Need to Watch<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Wow, June has been a month! Along with all the very public events that have occurred in the last 12 days, I've also had a lot going on in my private life. I've been busy working from home, dealing with the state reopening, remodeling my kitchen, having family come over and even getting engaged -- to a white guy (way to bury the lead, Cher). So, I finally had time to sit down and get back to the blog. As an empath, things can affect me deeply. I needed time away to re-align my emotions before I could write this post. Don't worry. It will be light and fun. It is <a href="http://www.lovingday.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">#LovingDay</a> ♥ after all.<br />
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If you've been following me on Instagram, then you might have noticed my stories have been very much geared toward the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/17951060680338600/" target="_blank">Black Lives Matter</a> movement. I hope that you all have learned a thing or two about what's really going on in this world in the past couple of weeks. If you want to learn more about implicit bias, systemic racism and the like, then I'd recommend that you check out my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/17951060680338600/" target="_blank">BLM highlight</a> for educational resources. Today, I just want to share some TV shows on streaming that I think you should watch. And while not all of these shows necessarily deal with race, all of these shows do star Black actors. Please know there are MANY other shows and movies that you can find on Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime and more that star Black actors. I've only included a few of the ones that I've watched.<br />
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<b>Dear White People</b></div>
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follows a group of Black students who are enrolled in a predominantly white university and face cultural bias and social injustice; but it's also a comedy (netflix)</div>
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<b>BlackAF</b></div>
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a mockumentary about the creator of <i>Blackish</i> and his approach to parenting and relationships (netflix)</div>
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<b>Marvel's Luke Cage</b></div>
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a man with super strength and unbreakable skin trying to rebuild his life in Harlem (netflix)</div>
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<b>High Fidelity</b></div>
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a record store owner living in gentrified Brooklyn revisits past relationships through music and pop culture (hulu)</div>
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<b>On My Block</b></div>
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a coming-of-age comedy about four street-smart friends navigating their way through high school in their predominantly Black and Hispanic Los Angeles neighborhood (netflix)</div>
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<b>Homecoming: Season 2</b></div>
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a woman wakes up with no memory of who she is; the search for her identity leads her to a mysterious wellness company (amazon prime)</div>
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<b>True Detective: Season 3</b></div>
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Arkansas detective spends decades investigating the crime that changed his life (hbo)</div>
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<b>The Shop</b></div>
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because conversations never stop; sometimes one gets more than just a haircut at a barbershop (hbo)</div>
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<b>Luther</b></div>
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a brilliant but impulsive detective who is tormented by the dark side of humanity while hunting down murderers (hulu)</div>
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<b>Insecure</b></div>
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modern-day Black women deal with their flaws as they cope with an endless series of uncomfortable everyday experiences (hbo)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdPdA4E9nLXUvYr66kTmqO2lWv6ecYfm_OBVRwQZOv6zmDR4Q0vuDD6Bd0wsNDkFZH1SDYZRf5y7hZBDQ2K180Ec14Kt4pOGWGOfxBJ5i_lYld0AXaAppGIuUzYwJe8YFMgvHINNlo9gt/s1600/euphoria.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="941" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZdPdA4E9nLXUvYr66kTmqO2lWv6ecYfm_OBVRwQZOv6zmDR4Q0vuDD6Bd0wsNDkFZH1SDYZRf5y7hZBDQ2K180Ec14Kt4pOGWGOfxBJ5i_lYld0AXaAppGIuUzYwJe8YFMgvHINNlo9gt/s1600/euphoria.png" width="800" /></a></div>
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<b>Euphoria</b></div>
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the troubled life of a drug-addicted teenager fresh out of rehab (hbo)</div>
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<b>Blackish</b></div>
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a great job, a beautiful wife, four kids, and a big house in a classy neighborhood; has all his success brought too much cultural assimilation for his family? (amazon prime)</div>
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<b>Ballers</b></div>
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former NFL player becomes a financial manager to help his younger friends still playing the sport (hbo)</div>
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<b>Key & Peele</b></div>
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a sketch comedy series that examines life by leaving no stone unturned (hulu)</div>
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<b>Atlanta</b></div>
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understanding the line between real life and street life in Atlanta, Georgia (hulu)</div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-72993939348968437452020-05-28T00:01:00.000-07:002020-05-28T00:01:05.045-07:00What I'm Loving - Quarantine Edition<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b>All Things Hulu. </b>Since I still have absolutely no desire to try my hand at cooking, I've been enjoying all my usual fare, just at a larger capacity. My go-to method of relaxation is Hulu. I'm amazed at the variety of shows and movies that are available. I think I'm so into it right now because I had it a few years ago and then got rid of it, so now that I have it again it's like finding your favorite outfit in the back of your closet that you thought you threw out. Here are a few shows I've seen on Hulu and that I 10 out of 10 would recommend, and here's a <b><a href="https://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2019/06/streaming-shows-to-watch.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">list of other shows</span></a></b> to watch.<br />
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High Fidelity | Little Fires Everywhere | Ballers | Dave | Top of the Lake | For Life</div>
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It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia | McMillion$ | The Boonies | What We Do in the Shadows</div>
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<b>All Things Home Decor. </b>Being able to work on my house has made this isolated life that much easier. "Free" time is spent doing things from painting and caulking to decorating and trimming tree branches. I've been finding new homes for old pieces and adding new pieces to this old home. As you recall from April's <b><a href="https://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2020/04/stay-home-remodeling.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Stay Home</span></a> </b>post, I've been updating my house to make it my own. So much more has happened since a month back. I've added a few more plants (a pothos, pampas grass, cast irons, and birds of paradise); I repurposed a TV stand into a console table; I've re-positioned furniture and added shelves and wall art. And modern light fixtures are up and the master bedroom is finally painted!<br />
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<b>All Things Skin Care.</b> I'll admit it. I'm no different from anyone else. Even though hardly anyone sees my face these days, like the masses, I've been putting in the effort to better my <b><a href="https://www.ohtobeamuse.com/search/label/Makeup%20and%20Muses" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">skin care routine</span></a></b>. This consists of doing multiple face masks a week and daily cleansing. I've also been exfoliating, toning, using serums for both the face and eyes, moisturizing and even doing body scrubs. If you'd like to buy, here are links to the products I'm currently using. Keep in mind that I don't use all of these every day. This is just what you would find in my quarantine skin care go bag.<br />
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<i><a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bgq8h" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Algenist</a> Genius Liquid Collagen | <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bgq2g" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Algenist Genius</a> Ultimate Anti-Aging Cream | <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bgq2s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Algenist Alive</a> Prebiotic Balancing Mask | <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bgq2E" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bliss</a> Rose Gold Rescue Soothing Toner Mist | <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bgq2T" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sunday Riley</a> Auto Correct Brightening and Depuffing Eye Contour Cream | <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bgq28" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pixi</a> Beauty Vitamin-C Caviar Balm | <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bgq3k" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pixi Beauty</a> Vitamin-C Serum | <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bgq3q" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ole Henriksen</a> Truth C-Rush Brightening Gel Creme | <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/bgq3H" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dermalogica</a> Intensive Moisture Balance | <a href="https://www.cvs.com/shop/promise-organic-nourishing-coconut-milk-daily-facial-scrub-3-oz-prodid-1150524" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Promise Organic</a> Coconut Milk Daily Facial Scrub | <a href="https://www.100percentpure.com/products/blood-orange-cleansing-balm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">100% Pure</a> Blood Orange Cleansing Balm | Any <a href="https://www.kroger.com/p/kroger-clarify-oil-free-acne-wash/0004126037967" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Salicylic Acid</a> face cleanser</i><br />
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<b>Most of this skincare items are linked at the top of my homepage as well. I'm also selling an awesome Pixi PR set <a href="https://poshmark.com/closet/ohtobeamuse" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">on my Poshmark</span></a> too.</b></div>
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<b>All Things Podcasts.</b> When I've had enough of my many streaming services, but I'm not in the mood to read (recently finished reading <i><b><a href="https://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2019/08/reading-list-summer-books-reviews.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Trust Me When I Lie</span></a></b></i>), then I go for jaunts around the neighborhood. I put on my headphones and some SPF and get in some cardio, vitamin D and a podcast. You really can't go wrong with a good podcast. Plus, it's like you're having a conversation with friends for all those who need some sort of social interaction. The boyfriend and I actually did a makeshift at-home podcast with each other a couple weeks ago. Nothing was recorded; we were just bored in the house and in the house bored. I'm not as varied when it comes to my podcast choices, so feel free to leave your recs in the comments. But here are the ones that have grabbed my ear lately.<br />
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The Tennis Podcast | Spilling Eve (a Killing Eve podcast) | Pop Culture Happy Hour</div>
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99% Invisible | How Did This Get Made? | The Rewatchables | Mindhunter Companion | TV Concierge</div>
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| <a href="https://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2019/07/myers-briggs-personality-test.html" target="_blank">Jumpsuit Last Styled Here</a> |</div>
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P.s., these photos are evidence of the first time in quarantine that I put on makeup and dressed up since March 24.</div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com50tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-41412727978802759902020-04-09T00:01:00.000-07:002020-04-09T04:51:52.058-07:00Stay Home: Remodeling<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Before things officially got crazy in March, I was actually planning on making a bit of a comeback to blogging and posting on social media. In fact, these photos were taken for a campaign that got canceled due to the coronavirus. Once the toilet paper rush turned into a true pandemic, I didn't really feel like coming back to blogging. I don't want to write a post about COVID-19, as I'm sure many others have already done so. But, at the same time, I have no desire to write about springs looks, either. The deciding factor: I could't let good photos go to waste, especially now that I'm working from home and dressed in pajamas and athleisure nonstop. Plus, you get to see my newest tattoos!<br />
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<i>before pic</i></div>
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To be quite honest, my routine hasn't really changed. I bought a house back in January and have spent pretty much every weekend working on it. So, social distancing is nothing new for this introvert. The house was built in the 1980s, so even though it still has good bones, there's much to upgrade. The previous owners did some remodeling here and there, but I can't really say that I've been too impressed with their work. Here's what I've been up to regarding my new house, and most likely what I'll continue doing in the months to come. <b><u>Note:</u></b> I know these are hard times for many, and I don't want to come off as ungrateful for what I have. I know that I'm fortunate to have a job and a house, especially these days. If the idea of me talking about remodeling my house might rub you the wrong way, then please stop reading now. Otherwise, grab your midday glass of wine or evening coffee (because, why not) and continue...<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b>Home Remodeling</b></h2>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Painting</h4>
Tyler has been painting everything! Of course, I helped sand some pieces as there's a lot of wood in this old house. But, painting is not my specialty. He's a pro at it, though. He's been sanding, priming, cutting, painting, getting on unstable ladders to reach the high ceilings, etc. So far, we've managed to change out most of the mustard yellow walls for light gray ones. I originally bought <i>Lazy Gray</i> to offset the <i>Pure White</i> trim from Sherwin Williams. Then I realized that it had more of a blue undertone, which didn't work. I happen to have a lot of great windows in my living and dining rooms, but I'm also surrounded by mature trees, which you can clearly see in these photos taken on my back deck. So, I opted for <i>First Star</i>, which is a much lighter gray to truly brighten up the rooms. Everything you see that's white used to be brown, and everything that's light gray used to be mustard.<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdgoBRQi0FWggedxmmFiX6fEj3tCgpCtigdqeK_mYK_JSAxQI7fkdWuVAZRnRwO3SGMGxcqTauZPA0UgsEQ1KrQq1HLwJdKJ6XXYJOPmueqfJHvP-YdvGRinIwyq8tqfr9j0dbI0nQ6Od6/s1600/igstory_option1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdgoBRQi0FWggedxmmFiX6fEj3tCgpCtigdqeK_mYK_JSAxQI7fkdWuVAZRnRwO3SGMGxcqTauZPA0UgsEQ1KrQq1HLwJdKJ6XXYJOPmueqfJHvP-YdvGRinIwyq8tqfr9j0dbI0nQ6Od6/s1600/igstory_option1.jpg" width="400" /></a>
Deer & Windows</h4>
Some of the best features in the house are the two bay windows on the main floor (two of the bedrooms also have bay windows). They make for the perfect book nooks. I also love the large picture window in the dining room. All these windows give me great views of the trees around my house and the family of deer that live there. Yes, a herd of about nine deer live in my backyard. Generally, I see them every other day as they graze for food or sunbathe by the creek in my front yard. Yes, there's also a creek. I'd be lying if I said the herd of deer wasn't a selling point.<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Privacy</h4>
I happen to also live on a cul-de-sac. Oddly enough, both my sister and my brother live on cul-de-sacs outside of Atlanta as well. I also have a very long driveway. If you were to Google the street view of my house, all you would see is a cul-de-sac, a driveway and trees. I love how it feels like I live in a cabin in the woods, even though I'm just minutes away from one of the biggest metropolitan areas in the U.S.<br />
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dP3R1CzoWEmpJJAUjG0SciAF3Ib438r7cDQzAINyXGLvlbV1EwZVz06s_vXEDdhXsTDaUgKq04sRJd3JWUDyCLLy1bDBMFgFsa1f7cDhrIYo_8ti82BZhH_ffUzpleVosCKQC-WPRCWl/s1600/dining-room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dP3R1CzoWEmpJJAUjG0SciAF3Ib438r7cDQzAINyXGLvlbV1EwZVz06s_vXEDdhXsTDaUgKq04sRJd3JWUDyCLLy1bDBMFgFsa1f7cDhrIYo_8ti82BZhH_ffUzpleVosCKQC-WPRCWl/s1600/dining-room.jpg" width="400" /></a></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: center;">
Furniture</h4>
So far, we have a <a href="https://www.jossandmain.com/furniture/pdp/gerrald-124-sectional-j000212537.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">super comfy sectional</a> over a gray and white area rug and two <a href="https://www.jossandmain.com/furniture/pdp/hakon-coffee-table-j000223240.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">unique coffee tables</a> in our living room. Along with a floor lamp, accent chair and a plant (bless the green thumb gods), the main room is coming together quite nicely. The floor to ceiling fireplace still needs to be painted, and the ceiling fan needs to be upgraded. But all that's really missing is a mounted TV and wall art. I'm thinking of adding a console table as well.<br />
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There's also a gorgeous <a href="https://www.jossandmain.com/furniture/pdp/maiorano-4-piece-solid-wood-dining-set-j000082790.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">solid wood dining table</a> complete with a smaller rug and bench. I just need to decorate it with a nice runner and some "not-for-use" dishes to complete the tablescape. This house also has a loft that overlooks the living room. We're using that as an office. Basically, all my living room furniture from my apartment is now situated in the loft. It's a great place to get work done, read a book or listen to some records.<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
The To-Do List</h3>
Oh...so much! Baseboards need to be caulked. A couple old doors need to be switched out. I want to remove the old bathroom vanities and replace them with new ones that fit my "modern farmhouse" vibe. I only have three colors in my house: white, gray, black. My accents are wood and plants. If it's not wood or not a house plant, then I don't want it. And so much painting still needs to be done. After the main floor is finished, we're moving on to the master bedroom and then the loft. Did I mention we also have a finished basement? No? Well, it doesn't matter because that's at the very bottom of my list. I'm still working on getting the stairs painted white and possibly remodeling the entire kitchen!<br />
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<b>Quick Q:</b> Remember my <a href="https://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2019/08/reading-list-summer-books-reviews.html" target="_blank">swing chair</a>? I want to put it in either the living room or dining area, but my ceilings are high. Should I get a stand for it? Or should I put it in that corner by the dining table? Or should I move it to a bedroom?<br />
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So, yeah...social distancing hasn't changed my life much. I'm hoping to get all this done by the end of the year, but here's to hoping that the coronavirus will be over and done with by summertime. Let's keep flattening that curve.<br />
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<i>Stay safe, stay home, stay healthy.</i></div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com80tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-36394574330031864462019-12-16T00:01:00.000-08:002019-12-16T00:01:07.245-08:00Getting Cozy with Tempur-Pedic<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfWV9gT-pw7EwwmljHb8mOFo3dT2JKU1aMR8woWUpQ13Ii-CF2su5UNk9jSkWflbgAhCsmSL9fQvltOubCf2PKnDrscU8RxQT6Vc9iYoIt3STi6-KGDCznguGPID1wL9UNgjpd3caQ_Cvl/s1600/tempur-pedic_blog2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfWV9gT-pw7EwwmljHb8mOFo3dT2JKU1aMR8woWUpQ13Ii-CF2su5UNk9jSkWflbgAhCsmSL9fQvltOubCf2PKnDrscU8RxQT6Vc9iYoIt3STi6-KGDCznguGPID1wL9UNgjpd3caQ_Cvl/s1600/tempur-pedic_blog2.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
You guys are quite aware that I don't post that often on the blog or social anymore. But if I do post, then it's 100% about something that I actually care about, use and love. And that's exactly how I feel about my new <b><a href="https://www.tempurpedic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tempur-Pedic mattress</a> </b>and bed set.<br />
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After moving across the country to Atlanta last year, I had to quickly get a new bed. I just wanted to get something that got the job done. It was full-size and nothing fancy. But now that I've really settled into this Georgia life, it was definitely time to upgrade to something that could truly elevate my sleep and general well being. That's where my Tempur-ProAdapt mattress comes in.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUucRJr4cLnb8YmO4tsgzmjlrlPbqsb246tuXBqEhY60v_JiDj7OJT1-ClwstLD4_H7f03MRagqrCBgqTjMbSH0DP1nExfQUr19EKgBvwoPJyMnxHvzK0yy11g8FkxQ5OMAfCCHA9hzc5b/s1600/tempur-pedic_blog7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUucRJr4cLnb8YmO4tsgzmjlrlPbqsb246tuXBqEhY60v_JiDj7OJT1-ClwstLD4_H7f03MRagqrCBgqTjMbSH0DP1nExfQUr19EKgBvwoPJyMnxHvzK0yy11g8FkxQ5OMAfCCHA9hzc5b/s1600/tempur-pedic_blog7.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Where Cold Climates Meet Cozy Beds</h2>
Everyone knows the importance of a good night's sleep. And as I've gotten older, feeling well rested has become a big part of my life. It can affect my general mood, and I'm sure I'm not the only one who feels this way.<br />
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So, I decided to get the king-size Tempur-ProAdapt mattress in medium firmness. Medium firm is my typical go-to. The ProAdapt series features advanced pressure relief for deep relaxation. The mattress has a TEMPUR comfort layer that offers adaptability, personalized comfort and support.<br />
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Basically, for me this means that when I lay on my bed I never want to leave, especially as we move from fall into winter and the temperatures start to drop. After I get home, workout, shower and eat, you can find me on this bed. It's not too soft or too hard, while still maintaining its shape. And that's just the mattress! I sleep like a baby with the sleep mask.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0xbY9osJCOo2FkyVGypYUk6CNSI8U2U2EJr2PfBrTueWQBdDnsbGim1BstfhzgbEMk6KHChcHyIJH1d-0ELHr6jttQLrjPlFYiv927zyRzldtbRcNKQa2z0fwd2TqT0COCDRpZLlfz-t/s1600/tempur-pedic_blog6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0xbY9osJCOo2FkyVGypYUk6CNSI8U2U2EJr2PfBrTueWQBdDnsbGim1BstfhzgbEMk6KHChcHyIJH1d-0ELHr6jttQLrjPlFYiv927zyRzldtbRcNKQa2z0fwd2TqT0COCDRpZLlfz-t/s1600/tempur-pedic_blog6.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
Plus, the TEMPUR-Cloud Pro Pillows are extra soft and perfectly made for back and stomach sleepers. I'm one of those people who likes to fall asleep on my stomach (this is why sleeping on planes is the absolute worst). But when I wake up, I'm always on my back. So, I know that I start on my stomach and at some point during the night I end up on my back. So, these low-profile pillows allow me to really feel like I'm sinking into a deep REM sleep<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "europa" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">.</span> I can't think of anything better. And yes, the pillows have removable, washable covers, too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiHuUqbjA2ZKxQycm2iZuuiLDxK5Lwn42CuMNpu8oMUF-OFX01j322QRnFSAgCcCdk-6ZCWitPbdMh9kD5pXRSTjKoY0SoIVfMmKJ_Y4E3JXq8HGdaghQJ1kbBoyNR9BJnFo17EyvBQ5_D/s1600/tempur-pedic_blog5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiHuUqbjA2ZKxQycm2iZuuiLDxK5Lwn42CuMNpu8oMUF-OFX01j322QRnFSAgCcCdk-6ZCWitPbdMh9kD5pXRSTjKoY0SoIVfMmKJ_Y4E3JXq8HGdaghQJ1kbBoyNR9BJnFo17EyvBQ5_D/s1600/tempur-pedic_blog5.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
Last, but certainly not least, is the power base. I opted for the TEMPUR-Ergo Extend adjustable base. You can choose to have a head raise, a foot raise or both. Tyler and I like to use the head raise, which has a maximum head tilt of 57 degrees, when we're streaming movies. You can also tilt it to an anti-snore position called QuietMode (fortunately, neither of us snore), or utilize the PerfectSeat setting and plug in to the USB ports on either side of the bed. And the Zero Gravity preset will take the base down to the perfect sleep mode.<br />
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Did I mention the four-zone massage feature? It comes in three intensities, and the lowest intensity might even be good at lulling you to sleep. All of this is done with the touch of a button on the wireless remote. Other features include adjustable legs and under bed lighting that comes in handy during those midnight bathroom breaks.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnjliiTwBkXu2iF1XdsCM2HX7GXpnwSoGWvmr_v8cFmFU9fl5Yh_8DuklSlNHYRuQlQrlWpXGhWDs6vFuX_35JUFn7XqmaerHWMchvtAi_iJLNNNqc_75w12JjIZOUH5SHZK9IPplpKgz1/s1600/tempur-pedic_blog3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnjliiTwBkXu2iF1XdsCM2HX7GXpnwSoGWvmr_v8cFmFU9fl5Yh_8DuklSlNHYRuQlQrlWpXGhWDs6vFuX_35JUFn7XqmaerHWMchvtAi_iJLNNNqc_75w12JjIZOUH5SHZK9IPplpKgz1/s1600/tempur-pedic_blog3.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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"Coffee in bed. Books in bed. Movies in bed. Who would ever want to leave?"</h2>
We couldn't be more excited about our Tempur-Pedic mattress and king-size bed set. It's both comfortable and adjustable, which really makes this bed even cozier during these cold months. And it comes in a split king version, too, if that's more your speed. Coffee in bed. Books in bed. Movies in bed. Who would ever want to leave?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmZhSzVbXI7oMO9IvxQ1HDb5JlzGWb5qRdWUn0oLe4aPxgUfZhe-QBHBDvdb6t1_Iqq9NG5lh6mPlyVgu8LnlrlEWknBXN09d-ljn8CzMESAjbrSdghW9DcOZqD7rdkL6ZEZRtaKpSk8Cp/s1600/tempur-pedic_blog4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmZhSzVbXI7oMO9IvxQ1HDb5JlzGWb5qRdWUn0oLe4aPxgUfZhe-QBHBDvdb6t1_Iqq9NG5lh6mPlyVgu8LnlrlEWknBXN09d-ljn8CzMESAjbrSdghW9DcOZqD7rdkL6ZEZRtaKpSk8Cp/s1600/tempur-pedic_blog4.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This post is in collaboration with Tempur-Pedic</i></div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com55tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-82806054848263674382019-12-09T00:01:00.000-08:002019-12-09T00:01:03.623-08:00Sara Lee Desserts: Celebrating Holiday Favorites Together<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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You might think that my favorite thing about the holidays is shopping. But, in actuality, my favorite part is the food -- and celebrating with family and friends, of course. There's just something about holiday food that makes celebrating with loved ones that much more fun and memorable. Growing up, I always enjoyed <b><a href="https://saraleedesserts.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sara Lee Desserts</a></b>.<br />
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My favorite was the Lemon Pound Cake. Later, I found the Sweet Breakfast line that featured the Butter Streusel Coffee Cake and the Pecan Coffee Cake. Needless to say, these moist and delicious cakes became my go-to pastries.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgX_AXEji3ihTna5bbNqhrsnimR6rHZPJVwxHBg1HSF_TeW5BDqGrQcYSjwdoc2zmCg-V9OJOxDJGsxdGSiSseCbNpK1El9joLaWnn_hICCl84JEpxVd3l5h-mbhhqgbtrOANORSkjrZ8I/s1600/sara+lee+desserts+butter+streusel+coffee+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgX_AXEji3ihTna5bbNqhrsnimR6rHZPJVwxHBg1HSF_TeW5BDqGrQcYSjwdoc2zmCg-V9OJOxDJGsxdGSiSseCbNpK1El9joLaWnn_hICCl84JEpxVd3l5h-mbhhqgbtrOANORSkjrZ8I/s1600/sara+lee+desserts+butter+streusel+coffee+cake.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Bringing Our Love of Desserts Together</h2>
After the boyfriend and I became huge fans of The Great British Bake Off this past year, we vowed to get in the kitchen and whip up a scrummy sweet treat. But we're not bakers, and we honestly don't have the time (or the stand mixer, lol). So, instead, we found that the best way to bring our love of desserts together this holiday season would be to go back to our childhood favorites in the form of ready-made <b>Sara Lee Desserts</b>!<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
My Pick: Butter Streusel Coffee Cake</h3>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE7bQoMXR_6-RzIXZmrTv1O2YCpsJliHpcB9unIylJEc8qW33IzvyVLk9ucJz5ELta5YoBVygoW9Mmtt1nQN6MY7DR3kDqZ1X41M0zrFgTdaO_A7pRvXu6MaDFW_8mrRmEK7-x77VOIat3/s1600/butter+streusel+coffee+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE7bQoMXR_6-RzIXZmrTv1O2YCpsJliHpcB9unIylJEc8qW33IzvyVLk9ucJz5ELta5YoBVygoW9Mmtt1nQN6MY7DR3kDqZ1X41M0zrFgTdaO_A7pRvXu6MaDFW_8mrRmEK7-x77VOIat3/s1600/butter+streusel+coffee+cake.jpg" width="450" /></a>The <a href="https://saraleedesserts.com/products_cat/sweet-breakfast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Butter Streusel Coffee Cake</b></a> is a hand-twisted Danish pastry that's swirled with a buttery filling and topped with streusel. It's perfectly delicious to eat as is, but is even tastier when heated up, which is<br />
recommended. The only thing that makes it better is a dollop of your favorite ice cream<br />
(for me, that's anything with caramel). I<br />
really couldn't think of a better dessert this holiday season.<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
"We vowed to get in the kitchen and whip up a scrummy sweet treat. But we're not bakers...so we found that the best way to bring our love of desserts together this holiday season would be to go back to our childhood favorites..."</h3>
My second option would have been the<br />
Pecan Coffee Cake, that is instead swirled with cinnamon and topped with fresh pecans and sweet icing. You really can't go wrong with either choice.<br />
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If you're good in the kitchen, try your hand at some of the Sweet Breakfast recipes on the Sara Lee website. There's a <a href="https://saraleedesserts.com/recipe/cream-filled-coffee-cake/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>cream-filled coffee cake</b></a> that you can make with the Pecan Coffee Cake, and a <a href="https://saraleedesserts.com/recipe/danish-dutch-apple-cake/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Danish Dutch Apple Cake</b></a> that you can make with the Butter Streusel Coffee Cake. Both only require a couple more ingredients and a few minutes in the oven.<br />
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His Pick: Strawberry Cheesecake</h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglPlVu2aXYDw9hff5a0jV_vP1dXqPZNk2YhF_7VsRFu7bOzieacCa8xAVfB_JrrnIJq0Uy0qfv7xQ5jAezctFyhBc3Inf5KfviaHMTVk-3ciXxxjJeIuuIkNFRlTSV2ePJWOBMHGwt8Q9m/s1600/sara+lee+desserts+strawberry+cheesecake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglPlVu2aXYDw9hff5a0jV_vP1dXqPZNk2YhF_7VsRFu7bOzieacCa8xAVfB_JrrnIJq0Uy0qfv7xQ5jAezctFyhBc3Inf5KfviaHMTVk-3ciXxxjJeIuuIkNFRlTSV2ePJWOBMHGwt8Q9m/s1600/sara+lee+desserts+strawberry+cheesecake.jpg" width="450" /></a>When it comes to Sara Lee Desserts, Tyler is all about the cheesecakes. He's a fan of both the French and Classic styles, but prefers the strawberry and cherry flavors. We couldn't decide so we got both the French Style Strawberry Cheesecake and the Classic Strawberry Cheesecake.</div>
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The whipped and fluffy <a href="https://saraleedesserts.com/products/french-style-strawberry-cheesecake/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>French Style Strawberry Cheesecake</b></a> has an oatmeal crumb crust and is baked with a real cream cheese filling before being topped with juicy strawberries and cheesecake rosettes.</div>
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The smooth and creamy <a href="https://saraleedesserts.com/products/classic-strawberry-cheesecake/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Classic Strawberry Cheesecake</b></a> is different from its French counterpart because it has a graham cracker crust and leaves more room for strawberries on the top.</div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
"...deciding on a favorite between the two came down to the cheesecake to strawberry ratio and which crust would win out--oatmeal crumb or graham cracker"</h3>
Even though both were delicious, deciding on a favorite between the two came down to the cheesecake to strawberry ratio and which crust would win out -- oatmeal crumb or graham cracker. In the end, Tyler gave the slight edge to the classic style. But nothing was going to separate me from my Butter Streusel!<br />
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A quick and easy recipe you can make with these cheesecakes is a chocolate-covered strawberry cheesecake! Just check out the <a href="https://saraleedesserts.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Sara Lee Desserts</b></a> website for all their products -- from seasonal pies to pound cakes -- tips, how-tos, recipes, store locations and more. What are your favorite desserts to celebrate with this holiday season?</div>
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<i>This post is in collaboration with Sara Lee Desserts</i></div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com65tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-10093578077672733332019-10-07T05:51:00.000-07:002019-10-08T04:45:21.782-07:00Autumn-Inspired Looks that Are Simple & Bold<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Autumn vibes are upon us. The beginning of this season can be interesting because it can be cold and hot in the same day. Today's outfit reflects that duality while also incorporating <a href="https://auratenewyork.com/collections/necklaces" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">edgy gold necklaces</a> to the look with this obelisk pendant from AUrate. This geometric bar pendant necklace is wearable at two lengths and manages to be both simple and bold at the same time: duality.<br />
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You might remember from my <a href="https://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2019/07/6-easy-ways-to-give-back-this-summer.html" target="_blank">6 Easy Ways to Give Back</a> post that AUrate uses sustainable production standards and that they donate a book for every piece of jewelry sold. AUrate also has obelisk earrings and short and long gold bar drop necklaces that are similar. So if you like this necklace or the ring that I wore in my other post mentioned above, then check out AUrate and give back while you shop!<br />
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It's been one year since I moved to Atlanta, and I remember the weather being particularly great in this month. But it's still early fall, so that means transitional pieces are our best bet. A cardigan sweater and jeans will work in the morning, but something a little more lightweight will be your friend in the afternoon. That's why I've opted for this look, which features a pair of high-waisted cargo ankle jeans (they were buy one, get one) and a cut-out bodysuit that's 50% off. Pro tip: NY&Co sizing is totally off. Everything runs big so I'd recommend sizing down, especially with the pants. Would you believe me if I told you that I'm wearing a size 0 here?<br />
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<b>Another Way to Wear</b></div>
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The best thing about these cargo jeans is that they look great paired with biker or combat boots (that's how I first wore them) or with chic heels. Biker boots will give you that <i>stepped out to get a cup of coffee and now running errands</i> look (I actually took these photos right after getting a chai at Starbucks). They're the comfortable yet edgy alternative. The heels would be reserved for when you take these jeans out for a date night or event. For this look, the shoes you pick will most likely depend on your mood, though.<br />
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<b>In Other News</b></div>
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Since last we spoke, I've seen a few movies (<i>The Kitchen, Hustlers</i>), had a game night, went tubing with the family, saw an improv show, got a new tattoo (can you spot it in these photos?), experienced The Void, and walked in a puppy runway show for charity to name a few. To truly keep up with what I'm doing in real time, I'd definitely recommend watching my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ohtobeamuse/" target="_blank">Instagram Stories</a> (that's usually how I keep up with you guys, too).</div>
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| Wearing: <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/74np" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NY&Co cut-out back bodysuit</a> // <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/8RnC" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">AUrate New York obelisk pendant</a> // <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/74qA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NY&Co high-waisted cargo ankle jeans</a> // <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/8fcv" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">XOXO Carissa biker boots</a> |</div>
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<i style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14.3px;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: xx-small;">This post is in collaboration with Nakturnal</span></i></div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com46tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-15340706615297553142019-09-12T00:01:00.000-07:002020-10-03T10:43:33.425-07:00One Year Vegetarian: What Do I Eat?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Sorry guys, it's been a while. </div>
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Back when I became a vegetarian last summer/fall, I knew that I was going to write this post. Now that I've been a vegetarian for a year, I'd like to share what I eat, generally. For the most part, it's been fairly easy transitioning from being a meat eater to a vegetarian, especially these days when we have so many great options available. Even when I go out to eat, I find that it's not difficult to find a few things on a menu, and I'm not just talking about vegan-specific restaurants either. So many places now offer vegan/vegetarian-friendly options -- even Burger King!<br />
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You should know that I still eat pizza, cookies, milkshakes and all that not-great-for-you-but-delicious stuff as well (usually on weekends). Also, the main reason I'm not vegan is because I'm still not a fan of vegan cheese, and cheese means the world to me. It's my ride or die.</div>
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The hardest part for me has been the fact that I still tend to eat more carbs than I should. Yes, there are many wonderful sources of protein in a vegetarian diet: plant-based, beans and the like. But since I don't cook, it is just a lot easier to have carbs at times. </div>
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Here are a few dishes that I've enjoyed during this year of vegetarianism (all items can be found at your local grocery store or cold-pressed juice company):</div>
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<li><b>Pear & Brussels Sprouts Salad:</b> Spring mix (spinach, radicchio, arugula), chopped pears, shaved Brussels sprouts, pomegranates, olive oil and Dijon mustard</li>
<li><b>Supergreens Vegetable Pasta & Cauliflower Mash:</b> made with spinach, zucchini, broccoli, parsley and kale with a side of mashed cauliflower (instead of potatoes)</li>
<li><b>Farro & Guacamole:</b> as simple as it sounds -- cooked farro with avocado mixed in (I wasn't an avocado fan -- unless you count avocado boba tea -- before this dish)</li>
<li><b>Protein Pancakes:</b> bananas, rolled oats, eggs, protein powder and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ardensgardenatl/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Arden's Garden</a> Powerfuel (flax seed, sesame seed, hemp protein, spirulina, chlorella, wheatgrass) topped with light syrup or cinnamon</li>
<li><b>Fruit & Veggie Juice Pops:</b> frozen Arden's Garden cold-pressed juices (these are no-sugar added, fruit and vegetable-only juices that are even yummier as frozen desserts)</li>
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I've also been enjoying some frozen vegetarian meals like the ones by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ohtobeamuse/" target="_blank">Fat Rabbit</a>. Also, I do like to do a juice cleanse every now and then to "re-start" my body in a sense.<br />
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One of my favorite places to eat is a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bp9sJV-lJ_7/" target="_blank">vegan restaurant</a> that makes the most appetizing pan fried dumplings (Asian cabbage, carrots, tofu, black mushrooms and spinach) and buffalo lollipops (Soy "chicken" drumsticks). If I decide to eat fast food, which honestly, I rarely do (fast food typically doesn't have many options for vegetarians anyway), then I opt for Burger King since they now carry the Impossible Burger for $5 as opposed to a restaurant's price of $15 for the same thing.<br />
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In case you're curious, I became a vegetarian because I was never a huge meat eater. Yes, I ate meat -- beef was my favorite -- but I could go days without meat and not be bothered. Then I started researching more about the meat industry and the negative environmental effects associated with it. So I decided to become a vegetarian to help the environment and to help my body. I don't care if you want to eat meat for the rest of your life. I've never been one to force my beliefs on anyone else. But I would recommend that you do some research on the meat industry if you truly care about the environment and what you put into your body.<br />
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Next goal for year two: add more protein and less carbs -- eat at Slutty Vegan since it's local and I hear it's amazing!<br />
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Would love for you guys to share what you typically eat, vegetarian or otherwise!</div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com53tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-39166593158450473572019-08-06T00:01:00.000-07:002019-08-06T00:01:00.340-07:00Reading List: Summer Books to Read and Book Reviews<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I was going through the blog and I realized that <i>"it's been 84 years" </i>(more like two) since I've done a true book review post. Granted, I haven't been reading as voraciously as in the past, but that doesn't mean I haven't been reading at all. So here are some of the books I've read since my last review.<br />
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You can check out a few of the other books I've read in my <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2017/09/recent-reads-books-i-read-while.html" target="_blank">recent reads</a> post and my <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2017/07/summer-reading-list.html" target="_blank">summer reading</a> post as well. Or take a look at this <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2016/06/what-did-you-think-of-that-book.html" target="_blank">book review</a> post from 2016, too! Decide which of these summer books you want to add to your reading list based on these book reviews.<br />
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<b>The Alienist:</b> This is a crime novel by Caleb Carr set in 1896 New York City about a team that investigates the murders of children using new technologies like fingerprinting and psychoanalysis. You might remember that <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2018/01/what-i-loved-january-2018.html" target="_blank">The Alienist</a> was adapted to a limited series TV show on TNT in 2018. Although I enjoyed the show, I definitely liked the book better. It was historical fiction at its finest. <b><i>Rating | </i>♥♥♥♥</b><b>♥</b><br />
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<b>Long Way Down:</b> I basically read Long Way Down in a matter of a few minutes. The book is told in free verse so it's more like a long poem than prose. Jason Reynolds' story is about a boy who wants to exact revenge on the person who murdered his brother. The book is set in the time span from when the boy gets on the elevator from his 8th floor apartment to the time it takes him to ride the elevator all the way down. On each floor, he meets with someone who is dead but has a story to tell -- stories that influence the boy and his decisions. I enjoyed this because it was such an engaging, quick read. <b><i>Rating | </i>♥♥♥</b><br />
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<b>The Power:</b> I've been quite lucky when it comes to books. I realize that I tend to like pretty much all of the novels that I choose to read (I'm a good judge of back covers). But this was the first book that I've read in a long time that I just couldn't get behind. It's a sci-fi book by Naomi Alderman in which women develop the ability to release electrical pulses from their hands, making them the dominant gender. Although I totally loved the premise, I didn't really enjoy where the plot led me. I just felt like more could have been done with what was given. <b><i>Rating | </i>♥♥</b><br />
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<b>The End We Start From:</b> And then I spoke too soon. I read this book right after and I wasn't that into it, either. Oddly enough, I can't honestly remember even reading it, which must say something. It just wasn't memorable. It's a story about motherhood in a terrifying setting written by Megan Hunter. <b><i>Rating | </i>♥</b><br />
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<b>The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck:</b> This was one of the few times I read nonfiction as I'm just not that enlightened, lol. I gotta tell ya, Mark Manson is an amazing writer. He puts it all out there and let's you know that it's not about not giving a fuck (yes, I curse on here), but really about knowing what's worth giving fucks about and what's not. I really took his advice to heart and whenever I forget to, I always go back to certain quotes in this read as a reminder. It'll change your life. <b><i>Rating | </i>♥</b><b>♥</b><b>♥</b><b>♥</b><b>♥</b><br />
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<b>Every Last Lie: </b>I love a book that's told in alternating perspectives. This one (another one of my Mary Kubica reads) is about a woman who thinks her husband might have been murdered after he's found dead in a car crash. Chapters are told from her perspective and his before he died. Again, great concept, but it takes the fate of certain thrillers -- the end doesn't live up to the beginning. <b><i>Rating | </i>♥</b><b>♥</b><b>♥</b><br />
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<b>One of Us Is Lying: </b>No need to pat myself on the back, but I guessed who was lying from the very beginning. But the best part is that the book was still a wonderful read even with that knowledge. You get the points-of-view of five different students in detention. At one point, one of the students dies and we have to figure out who did the deed. It's a whodunit! Karen M. McManus does a beautiful job keeping the reader engaged and playing to my 1980s nostalgia with her character cliches of <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2013/07/inspiring-style-breakfast-club-princess.html" target="_blank">The Breakfast Club</a>, which is one of my favorite movies. <b><i>Rating | </i>♥</b><b>♥</b><b>♥</b><b>♥</b><br />
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<b>Palo Alto: </b>Muses, this book was so weird. I picked it up randomly at a cute little bookstore in Italy last summer. I was living in the Bay Area at the time so I liked the idea of reading a series of short stories set in 1980s-1990s Silicon Valley (before it was Silicon Valley). The first couple of stories were quite intriguing. As the book continued, the troubled teenage misfits were just too much to handle. If any of you are watching the <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2019/06/streaming-shows-to-watch.html" target="_blank">HBO show Euphoria</a> then imagine that times 10. And yes, this was written by that James Franco. <b><i>Rating | </i>♥</b><b>♥</b><br />
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<b>Sadie: </b>This book by Courtney Summers was such a pleasure. I won't lie. I bought it because I liked the cover image, but it happened to also resonate with my reading style. Sadie is about a missing girl on a journey of revenge. Like other books on this list, Sadie is told in two perspectives: Sadie's and that of a <i>Serial</i>-like podcast that's following the clues that Sadie left behind. The best part is that this book doesn't have the type of ending that you think it might have, which is why I liked it even more. <b><i>Rating | </i>♥</b><b>♥</b><b>♥</b><br />
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<b>Unfollowing You: </b>You know when you go to the explore tab on Instagram and a ton of random photos and quotes come up? Yea, that's how I found this book. One of Komal Kapoor's quotes came up and I loved it so much that I went to her feed and found out that she had just published a book. It's a quick read (more like poetry) telling the story of a relationship in this modern dating world (online dating through stanzas). The only issue I had with it is that there's no time frame mentioned so I don't know how short or long this relationship was, but other than that, I enjoyed it. Pick it up and read it in a matter of minutes. <b><i>Rating | </i>♥</b><b>♥</b><b>♥</b><br />
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<b>Recursion: </b>By now you must know how much I love Blake Crouch. I've reviewed both his book Run and the literary genius that is <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2016/08/what-im-loving-august-2016.html" target="_blank">Dark Matter</a> on here in the past. So when I heard he came out with this new novel, I had to get it (and I got it both as an audio book and hard cover). Recursion asks the question, "what happens to life when memories can't be trusted?" People in this book experience false memory syndrome where they are engulfed with memories of a life they never lived. This is the part of the book that I thoroughly enjoyed. This is the Blake Crouch sc-fi-crazy-mind-bending-what-the-fuck-is-happening stuff that I love. What I didn't like was the latter half of the book when things kept repeating and the plot focused more on a romantic relationship and less on false memories. In case you couldn't tell, I'm not here for rom-coms. <b><i>Rating | </i>♥</b><b>♥</b><b>♥</b><b>♥</b><br />
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<b>The Penelopiad: </b>Honest to god, I found this book on one of my bookshelves having no idea how it got there. I probably stole it. The first time I read Margaret Atwood was <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2018/01/how-to-wear-pearl-embellished-trend.html" target="_blank">The Handmaid's Tale</a>, of course, back in high school. I've also seen season one of the show (totally need to catch up). Anyway, this is another short book so I started reading it in tandem with the book below. Atwood puts a contemporary twist on the tale of The Odyssey by telling it from Penelope's (Odysseus' wife) point of view. You probably never thought you'd care to know what Penelope was up to, but based on Atwood's re-telling, it was some funny shit. <b><i>Rating | </i></b><b>♥</b><b>♥</b><b>♥</b><br />
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<b>The Nickel Boys: </b>I got this book for an Instagram campaign with <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B0oJVivJXC5/" target="_blank">Barnes & Noble</a>. But I'm happy to have read it because the genre is in my wheelhouse. Colson Whitehead's book just came out last month and is the story of two boys sentenced to a reform school in Jim Crow-era Florida. Sadistic things occur and, crazy enough, the story is based on a real-life reform school. If you liked the 1996 film Sleepers starring Brad Pitt then you'll enjoy the similarities in this read. <b><i>Rating | </i></b><b>♥</b><b>♥</b><b>♥</b><br />
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Feel free to link up with me on my <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/3067154-cheryl?shelf=read" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> account if you're an avid reader (or a reader at all). Although lately I've been sharing what I'm reading on my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/17863623280208110/" target="_blank">Instagram Stories</a> and forgetting to update my Goodreads.<br />
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And any book here that has three or more hearts is highly recommended to add to your reading list.<br />
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<b>What's on your reading list or what have you read lately?</b></div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-6736670586871494482019-07-30T00:01:00.000-07:002019-07-30T00:01:00.301-07:005 Love Languages: What's Yours?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3WBHOrVf6aceA-MyRNJU93hxl9CYmJj0Hd-eD6g91qD4yAY6prW2Ni2cxdxoxA6cefhtOh4groyDuUJ7r1Iqr8DQEcwIeICyNRaAdBPFtiUC4Vw2y5jyYktumgP8-rL3Pm0kOrtMcblfm/s1600/ASOS+cami+jumpsuit+with+gathered+bodice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3WBHOrVf6aceA-MyRNJU93hxl9CYmJj0Hd-eD6g91qD4yAY6prW2Ni2cxdxoxA6cefhtOh4groyDuUJ7r1Iqr8DQEcwIeICyNRaAdBPFtiUC4Vw2y5jyYktumgP8-rL3Pm0kOrtMcblfm/s1600/ASOS+cami+jumpsuit+with+gathered+bodice.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
You've probably heard of the <b>5 Love Languages</b> - a book created by Dr. Gary Chapman that basically says relationships grow when we understand each other better. Everyone gives and receives love differently so it makes sense to understand how, and this is true for all types of relationships: couples, friends, family members, coworkers, etc. You can read the book or you can <a href="https://www.5lovelanguages.com/quizzes/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">take the quiz online</a> to find out your love language.</div>
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What Are the 5 Love Languages</h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4dmoTCtnvVWf0zTjlA6hhhgV4g3BNUxhrlWAHIAFoDOl_imeC861Ba1fyg36Y85auD7smZHNjS3F314Z2b-CWKzhcauuvlEg5LwgiRJdv_9hDumPWZN_7A1citRxAfCofttaLKNJeNSTy/s1600/cami+jumpsuit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4dmoTCtnvVWf0zTjlA6hhhgV4g3BNUxhrlWAHIAFoDOl_imeC861Ba1fyg36Y85auD7smZHNjS3F314Z2b-CWKzhcauuvlEg5LwgiRJdv_9hDumPWZN_7A1citRxAfCofttaLKNJeNSTy/s1600/cami+jumpsuit.jpg" width="450" /></a><b>Words of Affirmation:</b> using words to build up the other person, like saying thank you for doing a task - thanks for taking out the trash; thanks for filing that paperwork; thanks for picking up the bill. Unsolicited compliments are important, and in a relationship, hearing the words "I love you" are the upper echelon.<br />
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"What's important to understand is that no one has one love language...it's your order of importance that really shows how you give and receive love."</h4>
<b>Receiving Gifts:</b> it might sound like this language is about being materialistic, but that's far from true. If this is your main love language, it means that you are in love with the thoughtfulness and effort behind receiving a gift. A gift or gesture shows you that the other person knows you well as they are treated as heartfelt symbols of someone's love.<br />
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<b>Acts of Service:</b> doing something for someone else that you know they would appreciate like cooking a meal, helping with homework, running an errand for them, etc. Anything that would ease the burden of responsibility speaks volumes. "Let me do that for you" is music to their ears. The act of service must be out of love and not obligation.<br />
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<b>Physical Touch:</b> hugs, kisses, and the like are all very important to someone who is into physical touch. To them, touch communicates warmth, safety, care and love. Even something like holding hands can hold a lot of weight for this love language.<br />
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<b>Quality Time:</b> this one is all about undivided attention - being present with the other person without distractions (like social media for example). Taking walks in the park together; sitting on the couch talking (with the TV off - this means no Netflix either); active listening - it's all about spending time together in a meaningful way.<br />
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My Love Languages, Ranked</h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglGTee3KbHpzdSRYLQle-YatgUD5gZ89Li1jzOGezm1nz4OJPUprH74Ibf-iWjvJ6yzVbTUdEQiMbRpvzcUQELBDJePF_gVcR0D4_4j7CrIHJ1UykO02ESKahtxhYeltlsDAtwNI5VsqfF/s1600/schutz+ylanna+flats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglGTee3KbHpzdSRYLQle-YatgUD5gZ89Li1jzOGezm1nz4OJPUprH74Ibf-iWjvJ6yzVbTUdEQiMbRpvzcUQELBDJePF_gVcR0D4_4j7CrIHJ1UykO02ESKahtxhYeltlsDAtwNI5VsqfF/s1600/schutz+ylanna+flats.jpg" width="450" /></a>What's important to understand is that no one has one love language. Instead, it's more of a ranking system. So it's likely that you can relate to all five, but it's your order of importance that really shows how you give and receive love.</div>
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My primary love language is Quality Time (10), followed by Physical Touch (8), Words of Affirmation (7), Acts of Service (4) and Receiving Gifts (1). The highest score you can get is a 12. This means that receiving gifts and acts of service aren't as important to me when it comes to relationships, whereas words of affirmation, physical touch and quality time are very common languages that I use to communicate love.</div>
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Not only is it important to know your love language (or just fun), but it's good to know the other person's love language as well. Quality Time might be imperative for me but could be low on the totem pole for my partner. They could be way more into Words of Affirmation.</div>
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<b>Without taking the quiz, what do you think your primary love language is?</b></div>
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<b>| </b>Wearing: <b>ASOS </b>- <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/42bx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">cami jumpsuit with gathered bodice</a> // <b>Schutz</b> - <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/5cRN" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ylanna flats</a> |</div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-60320053764654950522019-07-23T00:01:00.000-07:002019-07-23T00:01:02.633-07:00What I Loved: July 2019<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQJBhNhMYHfQflV1r5brKnIHeAidZUr864E5ESr02qu-4s_Rj4JtkRYbjYPtR6GmiXMLQC3VYL-my4ocGG6HH3UYr_vdPrLm3s1G2QHMSjLL5jlCwRnB5e9icjT22PqIV0oDHeO01TTCNC/s1600/atlanta+alpaca+treehouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQJBhNhMYHfQflV1r5brKnIHeAidZUr864E5ESr02qu-4s_Rj4JtkRYbjYPtR6GmiXMLQC3VYL-my4ocGG6HH3UYr_vdPrLm3s1G2QHMSjLL5jlCwRnB5e9icjT22PqIV0oDHeO01TTCNC/s1600/atlanta+alpaca+treehouse.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<b>Unique Glamping: </b>I've never been much of a camper, but I've always liked the idea of glamping. I love being out in nature (lakeside walks, hikes, etc.), but I don't enjoy the whole staying in a sleeping bag and using the bathroom outside thing. So this summer I'm interested in unique glamping like yurts, geodesic domes and tree houses. I actually spent time in a beautiful <a href="https://www.alpacatreehouse.com/alpaca-treehouse" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>tree house in a secluded bamboo forest</b></a> in the heart of Atlanta just 20 minutes from my place this past weekend. Did I mention that it was also on an alpaca and llama farm? If you're looking to get outside this summer, but you're not that into traditional camping (or you just want to try something new), I'd definitely recommend you do something unique and different and go glamping in teepees, yurts, wagons, tree houses and more!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCiCQm412-23a8N7_4Ugpi5zlNOEtcLnwRciyPoqfjDmSghYzQW-ujmvPo6Ls7RwVKxRX3A4qpRn-ev5fa5xmCzf2JC38o93Y7wuhBjBf-as1cYYbBlvZrisf0efAzYO86GMXJ-nN6udzW/s1600/figgy+the+llama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCiCQm412-23a8N7_4Ugpi5zlNOEtcLnwRciyPoqfjDmSghYzQW-ujmvPo6Ls7RwVKxRX3A4qpRn-ev5fa5xmCzf2JC38o93Y7wuhBjBf-as1cYYbBlvZrisf0efAzYO86GMXJ-nN6udzW/s1600/figgy+the+llama.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
<b>SoulCycle: </b>Yes, there was a gift card lawsuit that was settled. I think that's actually a good thing because a lot of people ended up getting a few free classes, which is great because classes ain't cheap! As of today, I've done <a href="https://www.soul-cycle.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>SoulCycle</b></a> 6 times and I've never paid for a single class. My plan is to not get hooked on it so I never have to pay for it. But for now, I'm loving it. Yes, sometimes the "soul" in SoulCycle is a bit annoying to me (I have no emotions), but it really works you out, and the 45 minutes goes by super fast. Plus the music is typically perfect with class themes like Hip-Hop Humpday, Beyonce: Homecoming, Bruno Mars vs Cardi B, and Soul + Abs to name a few.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBja-GRCx9gjMD8Yhx75eHuLWxN-jiSALJjSfsOcEpDMms-ElbRoLs7ygxZ4ZOuDdmNtuCTGyoueGl1z0oF3n3cUnIFJ6ERRdpkP_qi8ImBH6YphL9fLIAj5eUSyMJaf5ts2GPSJTqZRsf/s1600/july+2019.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1447" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBja-GRCx9gjMD8Yhx75eHuLWxN-jiSALJjSfsOcEpDMms-ElbRoLs7ygxZ4ZOuDdmNtuCTGyoueGl1z0oF3n3cUnIFJ6ERRdpkP_qi8ImBH6YphL9fLIAj5eUSyMJaf5ts2GPSJTqZRsf/s1600/july+2019.png" width="800" /></a></div>
<b>Arden's Garden:</b> Outside of the blog, I also work part-time for a local juice company called <a href="https://www.ardensgarden.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Arden's Garden</b></a>. The company began here in Atlanta, but their fruit and vegetable juices and all-natural vegan snacks can be found in stores like Kroger, Publix and Whole Foods in the southeast. So I've been enjoying their juices (no added anything - just all fruits and vegetables), their detox cleanses and their vegan foods like kale chips and no-tuna salads. If you'd like to try them out, they also ship all across the US. I'd recommend their Hotshot (pineapple juice, lemons, cranberries, ginger) and their Green Energy Machine (cucumbers, celery, apple juice, spinach, kale, ginger) for starters.<br />
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<b>Net Mesh Tote Bags:</b> Back in March, I shared <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2019/03/zappos-clarks-spring-shoes.html" target="_blank">this netted tote bag</a> in an outfit post. I am absolutely loving it for summer and all other variations of this style. Mine has a zippered pouch inside to keep my items secure, but unfortunately, this specific bag is sold out. And you might also remember my <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2018/03/what-to-wear-to-spring-forward.html" target="_blank">Staud macrame bucket bag</a>, but that one is a little pricey. Luckily, I've found a few others that I love and are more affordable (and available). If you're interested in adding a summer-friendly bag to your collection, then get one of the <b>net mesh totes</b> that I've shared in this post.<br />
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<a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/4j3c" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">mango braided net bag</a> | $39 \\ <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/4j3P" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">steve madden bmermaid</a> | $60</div>
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<a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/4j39" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">topshop siren string tote bag</a> | $48 \\ <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/4j3q" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">goodnight macaroon chloe handle net bag</a> | $59<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIM2VysJTTmjSzuFSDSRVFnXdIBPnlEvFDOCHh6lleRqBgomVuD9gBtX3DzVsDqNflkKUwG5IKNVEZyTdKF512mH774xS1MErkKUe_2cIhPIuq2EckoKLJDcXUDDBwIh-5J2soxthW4Xw/s1600/alpaca+treehouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="764" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLIM2VysJTTmjSzuFSDSRVFnXdIBPnlEvFDOCHh6lleRqBgomVuD9gBtX3DzVsDqNflkKUwG5IKNVEZyTdKF512mH774xS1MErkKUe_2cIhPIuq2EckoKLJDcXUDDBwIh-5J2soxthW4Xw/s1600/alpaca+treehouse.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-36570622186347950332019-07-16T00:01:00.000-07:002019-07-16T00:01:03.273-07:00INFJ-T: Do You Know Your Personality Type?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_QXpSg61tbBmMaxe96HZ20mBAM7HO0XBOWpVC_zRzaaOJOUTE4C38gQKYzmFlcgYEpZUtzGTF0kSlWXh6MstB1ZO0lWSe5qq-R84JFJIS5Y5S8NRMBAmdWm8lHC0v1YYVSEZI3vaeRd7/s1600/asos+tshirt+with+rope+trim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_QXpSg61tbBmMaxe96HZ20mBAM7HO0XBOWpVC_zRzaaOJOUTE4C38gQKYzmFlcgYEpZUtzGTF0kSlWXh6MstB1ZO0lWSe5qq-R84JFJIS5Y5S8NRMBAmdWm8lHC0v1YYVSEZI3vaeRd7/s1600/asos+tshirt+with+rope+trim.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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At some point in your life, you've probably taken a personality test. There are <a href="https://www.personalityperfect.com/ultimate-16-personality-types-overview/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">16 different types</a>, and it could be likely that certain aspects of your personality have slightly changed over the years. I've always been an INFJ, but I took the test again at the end of last year and found that I'm actually an INFJ-T. An INFJ is called "a counselor" while an INFJ-T is called "an advocate" and is quite rare. Some well known INFJ-Ts include: Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, Goethe and Jon Snow (Game of Thrones).</div>
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What is an INFJ & What does it mean?</h2>
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INFJs are deep thinking visionaries and idealists with a creative imagination and a profound outlook on the world.<br />
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"While people of this personality type can be found engaging in rescue efforts, their real passion is to get to the heart of the issue so that people need not be rescued at all."</h4>
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<b>Introvert</b></div>
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Being an introvert is not the same as being shy. You can be shy and extroverted and you can be introverted and not shy at all. As a child, I was both shy and introverted. As I've gotten older, my shyness has gone away. It's very easy for me to introduce myself to people and to easily make conversation. But I'm still an introvert. The easiest way for me to explain this is that introverts get their energy by being alone. We recharge our batteries when we're by ourselves, and when we go out, our batteries are slowly being drained. The opposite is true of extroverts.<br />
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<b>Intuitive</b></div>
This basically means that we analyze situations by using our gut instincts, our imagination and some introspection. At times, we can get too caught up in future prospects and outcomes instead of staying in the present.<br />
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<b>Feeling</b></div>
Our thought process is ruled by the heart and not the head, meaning we rely on empathy and subjective analysis to come to conclusions.<br />
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Judging</b></div>
It can be hard to remember what this one is about because the word judging can kind of throw off the true definition of this personality type. But someone with a judging personality is just one who is big on being organized and disciplined. We're all about checklists, schedules and planning ahead.<br />
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Turbulent</b></div>
This means we're a bit more sensitive because of the emotional depth that comes with being ruled by intuition and feeling wrapped in a judging introvert, lol.<br />
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Other Personality Types</h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU6fWxbezzEeT4nAv0HWp3BNOK_YZul3dq65X-be80oKnAmfTY_3VKosCcQYwFnvR5aATZ7FY51ydCjit0wD8ytAuPqz1vcYpr6lovMJIr00VNz1Duhrg8LZ3-wbetMfkdISjkxRiRZ72K/s1600/rope+trim+shirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="988" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU6fWxbezzEeT4nAv0HWp3BNOK_YZul3dq65X-be80oKnAmfTY_3VKosCcQYwFnvR5aATZ7FY51ydCjit0wD8ytAuPqz1vcYpr6lovMJIr00VNz1Duhrg8LZ3-wbetMfkdISjkxRiRZ72K/s1600/rope+trim+shirt.jpg" width="450" /></a>ISFJ - the nurturer: the considerate caretaker</div>
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ESFP - the performer: the life of the party</div>
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ISFP - the composer: listener & lover of life</div>
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ISTP - the craftsman: pragmatic, down to earth</div>
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ENFP - the champion: the thoughtful optimist</div>
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ENFJ - the giver: outspoken and charismatic</div>
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ESTP - the doer: all about new experiences</div>
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ESFJ - the provider: loves the spotlight</div>
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ESTJ - the supervisor: results-oriented leaders</div>
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INTP - the thinker: the observant analyzer</div>
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ISTJ - the inspector: thinks in black and white</div>
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ENTP - the visionary: loves to learn & be challenged</div>
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INFP - the idealist: focused on finding meaning in the world</div>
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INTJ - the mastermind: strategic big picture thinker</div>
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ENTJ - the commander: decisive, ambitious leader</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Are you curious to know your personality type? I'd recommend taking </span><a href="https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">this test</a><span style="text-align: left;">. Not only do I think it's fun, but it's a great way to learn more about who you are and what makes you tick. It also might be good to share with your close friends to understand them better.</span><br />
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<span style="text-align: left;"><b>What's your personality type?</b></span><br />
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<span style="text-align: left;"><b>|</b> Wearing: <b>ASOS</b> - <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/419L" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">T-shirt with rope trim</a> | <b>ASOS</b> - <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/42bh" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">deep v strap back jumpsuit</a> |</span></div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-61591659577567390442019-07-09T00:01:00.001-07:002020-08-25T09:32:20.735-07:006 Easy Ways to Give Back<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxLelEfbB-VvEzG64i_9yWo5_bEy9Mu5ArQNxVOUj4c6USsfavFQyJcfSdZVMI06R86cOHhtMXPVArBM5T8Q_TKlNN-5I28qmc4yjs1SG2uzRQX3uY-yebrlM9l9XMyikdPcV0VceVzQZi/s1600/aurate.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="aurate" border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxLelEfbB-VvEzG64i_9yWo5_bEy9Mu5ArQNxVOUj4c6USsfavFQyJcfSdZVMI06R86cOHhtMXPVArBM5T8Q_TKlNN-5I28qmc4yjs1SG2uzRQX3uY-yebrlM9l9XMyikdPcV0VceVzQZi/s1600/aurate.jpg" title="aurate new york" width="800" /></a></div>
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<b>More Than Jewelry</b></div>
AUrate is a fine jewelry brand in NYC with no concessions. They use durable materials and focus on ethically and environmentally sustainable production standards. And for every ethically sourced piece of jewelry that you buy, like these <a href="https://auratenewyork.com/collections/rings" target="_blank">beautifully minimalistic gold rings</a>, AUrate puts a book directly in the hands of a child who needs it by partnering with Mastery Charter and giving thousands of books to students and schools across New York City.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiABvmb-GDwVnPgbjleSMiJ313eeG6xj0wgfof-2GD2xv5O5ihn9_dWTbcZDHOKAtB8w-z-EZeLng36Ws7bnifE2Usnf_fE6bWOI1wH2lT2M2t6uz_bYEtEOGuScP9pgMyyMMoDB4hZteO5/s1600/ASOS+Public+Desire+x+Lissy+Roddy+structured+bodice+top.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiABvmb-GDwVnPgbjleSMiJ313eeG6xj0wgfof-2GD2xv5O5ihn9_dWTbcZDHOKAtB8w-z-EZeLng36Ws7bnifE2Usnf_fE6bWOI1wH2lT2M2t6uz_bYEtEOGuScP9pgMyyMMoDB4hZteO5/s1600/ASOS+Public+Desire+x+Lissy+Roddy+structured+bodice+top.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<b>Gum That Gives</b></div>
I've seen this gum at the checkout counter at a variety of places like Target, Kroger, Starbucks and Whole Foods, but had no idea that it was part of such a great cause. I'm sure you've seen this gum - most likely in the birthday cake flavor - as well. <a href="https://project7.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Project 7</a> is a candy brand based in California that supports 7 areas of basic humanitarian needs both domestically and abroad. Their 7 areas are: Save the Earth, House the Homeless, Feed the Hungry, Quench the Thirsty, Heal the Sick, Teach Them Well and Hope for Peace. To date, 4.6 million trees have been planted, 1.6 million months of clean water has been provided and 132,000 malaria cases have been treated, to name a few.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Xn1Lj20lZMEC3Sinp_c4tUcQ-xgeWydKovYX9dsaHPSNCBnppL5aokidZZAK24nv00VADRMSf2hUB-WGkoVNQOEDI2S1tjZ-6drnF7UcFIj4Soxaf-5IsRH-NjkT_VL5DdAy-xQnSXxs/s1600/aurate+tableau+ring.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Xn1Lj20lZMEC3Sinp_c4tUcQ-xgeWydKovYX9dsaHPSNCBnppL5aokidZZAK24nv00VADRMSf2hUB-WGkoVNQOEDI2S1tjZ-6drnF7UcFIj4Soxaf-5IsRH-NjkT_VL5DdAy-xQnSXxs/s1600/aurate+tableau+ring.jpg" width="500" /></a><b>Become an Abortion Clinic Escort</b><br />
In case you were wondering, I'm definitely pro-choice. And with the extreme bans and restrictive bills that have come about in recent months, I'm getting pretty tired of people having a say in what we women do with our bodies. If you're pro-life, that's fine. This isn't a grievance toward you and everyone is entitled to their opinion. But for those who are pro-choice and would like to do something about current affairs, you should know that you can choose to donate to grassroots reproductive rights organizations or you can volunteer to be an abortion clinic escort.<br />
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Basically, you accompany women seeking reproductive care on the walk from their car to the clinic, which is typically packed with many anti-abortion protesters. Go <a href="https://prochoice.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a> or <a href="https://www.abortioncarenetwork.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a> to find local clinics and see how you can volunteer. It's easy and it's free.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLY6En5w-IuQrlaRpN1Na1H9RLHNx_gLtgYbewjravLgyIZpunBXEPGYkMkcM5_gfloflPd1eyvbk3UcnT43ywLBEyBw_IX-_aoaqFOtMKTnTjfg6OOFqNiphE3Tapt8OZ3EsnhHiknGF3/s1600/aurate_new+york.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLY6En5w-IuQrlaRpN1Na1H9RLHNx_gLtgYbewjravLgyIZpunBXEPGYkMkcM5_gfloflPd1eyvbk3UcnT43ywLBEyBw_IX-_aoaqFOtMKTnTjfg6OOFqNiphE3Tapt8OZ3EsnhHiknGF3/s1600/aurate_new+york.jpg" width="500" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">"Climate change is real, the polar ice caps are melting and plant and animal lives are in need."</span></h4>
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| <b>AUrate New York</b> - <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/74ry" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">tableau ring</a> // <b>ASOS</b> - Public Desire x Lissy Roddy structured bodice top |<br />
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<b><b>Trees for Life</b></b></div>
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Climate change is real, the polar ice caps are melting and plant and animal lives are in need. One way we can do our part to help (other than practicing a more sustainable lifestyle) is by planting more trees.<br />
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<a href="https://www.we-wood.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">WeWOOD</a> uses eco-materials free of toxic chemicals for each watch, and they plant a tree for each watch sold. They've planted more than 400,000 trees in North America, South America, Africa and Asia with hopes of hitting one million by 2020. We can never have enough trees!<br />
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<b>Read and Receive</b></div>
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Speaking of reading and books, <a href="https://outofprint.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Out of Print</a> spreads the joy of reading by transforming literary classics into apparel and accessories. Every item purchased supports literary programs and donates books around the world.</div>
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<b>Buy a Bag; FEED a Child</b></div>
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<a href="https://feedprojects.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FEED</a> works with artisans from Kenya to India to create artisan-made products that provide meals and sustainable lifestyles. With every product they sell, FEED provides school meals to communities across the globe. Each product shows how many school meals will be provided with the purchase of that product. Items range from cosmetic cases and luggage tags to weekender bags, candles and coffee! More than 100 million meals have already been provided.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">This post is in collaboration with Au|Rate New York</span></i></div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com46tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-40287786357440694692019-07-08T00:01:00.000-07:002019-07-08T00:01:00.868-07:00How to Enjoy the Outdoors This Summer<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I've been truly enjoying the warm summer months and trying to really take it all in. I'm taking advantage of any excuse to be outside in nature and to appreciate it in all its glory. Here are a few ways you can enjoy the outdoors this summer. And remember, keep it sustainable and environmentally friendly!<br />
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<a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2017/08/traveling-muse-australia.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6VxIRaGTILdw6sGdxM4ac5RdCTPkYbhuQfyOezzsS7rfo90Gi0H7O54y53i0vPfmdIBXfLjsbZozab-B1l2IwoLbpOgj3lXeI9k4OOAGHbCxKdtO5AL0BtlRd3CoCal78kOnmQqisPZtS/s1600/trinity+beach+treehouse.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Australia 2017</i></span></div>
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Host an Event at a Tree House</h2>
Summer weddings are quite trendy. Every time I go online I see people talking about the bevy of weddings they have to attend this season. Fortunately, for me, I'm not going to any. But if you're getting married this season I would totally recommend one of these beautiful <a href="https://www.pronovias.com/wedding-dresses/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Pronovias wedding dresses</span></a>, particularly the Rocky! Anyway, I say fortunately because weddings are a lot of work. So much goes into putting them together, and they can even be a bit of a hassle for the guests. Will it be outdoor? On the beach? In the middle of the day?<br />
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But even though I'm glad to not be attending any weddings, if I were going to one this season, I would want it to be held at a unique venue like a tree house. I've never been into the typical wedding venue in a church, so I've always liked the idea of something less traditional and more unique. The beauty of having a wedding at a tree house is that you can easily wear something like a <a href="https://www.pronovias.com/wedding-dresses/beach-wedding-dresses/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394;">casual beach wedding gown</span></a> at this location. The casual look and feel of the dress will go quite nicely with the outdoor, rustic vibe of the tree house. Just think about the fun lighting, wood accents and bamboo tree background that would be a photographer's dream. Oh, and it doesn't have to be a wedding. You could host a birthday, family reunion, brunch with friends or whatever. As long as it's at a tree house then you're golden.<br />
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Hike a Waterfall</h2>
A couple months ago my friend visited me all the way from California. While she was here, we drove up to north Georgia so we could hike a waterfall. It was splendid. I honestly wouldn't mind hiking waterfalls every weekend if I could. You get the feeling of accomplishing something while also being active, which is good for your mind, soul, heart and overall health. And to top it off, you're rewarded with a beautiful waterfall. My goal is to hike more waterfalls here in Georgia (because apparently that's a thing in this state) this summer. Thank goodness for my <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2019/07/insta-lately-july-2019.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394;">plant-based bug spray</span></a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgobKdY34ZrqH924IHy5bzwxo8HJ6-iQ4hiZ_lBBHtbEDkGUYQvLNMadC5-cT-IQ3Tt0HMWl8XEc15pLaNteruMpx4nyHIsmlU1DtNcaLEzwcp2PkqKHJoeA9UrYf5CVDPJuAHE1PHBLrBI/s1600/loch_lomond.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgobKdY34ZrqH924IHy5bzwxo8HJ6-iQ4hiZ_lBBHtbEDkGUYQvLNMadC5-cT-IQ3Tt0HMWl8XEc15pLaNteruMpx4nyHIsmlU1DtNcaLEzwcp2PkqKHJoeA9UrYf5CVDPJuAHE1PHBLrBI/s1600/loch_lomond.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Scotland 2017</i></span></div>
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Go to an Outdoor Movie Night</h2>
Back in 2017, I actually put together an outdoor movie night with friends when we stayed in a cabin in Lake Tahoe. It was great, but it was also winter. I can guarantee you that an outdoor movie night will be way more fun in the summer. And consider making it a dinner and a movie and <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2017/10/on-go-with-moscato-dining-al-fresco.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394;">dining al fresco</span></a>! Ramp up your food and drink game and skip the typical popcorn and soda (ugh). Opt for a nice cheese plate, tapas and refreshing virgin and alcoholic cocktails. All you need is a projector and your favorite throwback movie. Go with something nostalgic. Or you can see if your city is hosting any movie nights. They're pretty common this time of year.<br />
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Plan a Staycation in a Yurt</h2>
I used to think that no one in their right mind would sleep in a yurt. I'm not into camping. I like my creature comforts. But these days yurts are the shit. They're a step up from tent camping and many usually come with beds and small kitchens and pretty much anything you'd need for a weekend staycation. Most of all, unlike a house or apartment rental, yurts are most likely already surrounded by nature. This means you'd be waking up in a stunning setting where there are more trees than people. Who wouldn't want to experience that?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfrm6IZfg-BGVSkYEkdlbWGWJHCFTBvS6dJCbab9cmuoec42iIDk5HJCMuC8mINqqXRjuYD9968GGL76oe1InITJttmSy2ZlIX_8mhBjpdZoOJnqc9GUcg_amrur9agXqU_oYiWNObub_p/s1600/shambala+swings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfrm6IZfg-BGVSkYEkdlbWGWJHCFTBvS6dJCbab9cmuoec42iIDk5HJCMuC8mINqqXRjuYD9968GGL76oe1InITJttmSy2ZlIX_8mhBjpdZoOJnqc9GUcg_amrur9agXqU_oYiWNObub_p/s1600/shambala+swings.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Tulum 2016</i></span></div>
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Travel by Bike or Boat</h2>
My favorite place from my <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2018/07/north-of-wall-dubrovnik-croatia.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Mediterranean trip last summer was Croatia</span></a>. Two reasons why: I spent a lot of time reading in a hammock on a boat, and I did a bike ride around an island. Now, I'm not saying go rent a boat or travel to an island. Just consider getting on a bike and riding through a trail or park where you live. There's something quite freeing about going downhill on a bike with your hands in the air. If you can get on a boat (like a sunset river cruise or something) then try that out as well (as long as you don't get seasick). It's just a nice way to be on the water without being in the water. Even though I'm a Pisces, I'm more into being around water than being in it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjugmj16mUoU5FhkT8XotZXy8zG3-4nvELljAaMMqtTZKjzO7tA4_4ICf-eR9AWv2PyWu1AoQJxrAsrx5pB4692wUWv3-fpaz20rY-qShu5jitulVcmbCOFXrs2AV5BBsyT8ialJxQU5rYG/s1600/fiji_SuP.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="605" data-original-width="913" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjugmj16mUoU5FhkT8XotZXy8zG3-4nvELljAaMMqtTZKjzO7tA4_4ICf-eR9AWv2PyWu1AoQJxrAsrx5pB4692wUWv3-fpaz20rY-qShu5jitulVcmbCOFXrs2AV5BBsyT8ialJxQU5rYG/s1600/fiji_SuP.png" width="800" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Fiji 2017</i></span></div>
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Festival Fun or Sports Bum</h2>
I think <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2018/05/bottlerock-napa-valley-music-lineup.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0b5394;">festival season</span></a> might be over -- I don't know as I honestly don't keep up. But I will say that listening to music outside is hella fun, much like an outdoor movie night. Find a summer concert series, grab a blanket and head out with some friends. If you're into sports, then you should see if there are any summer soccer, baseball, lacrosse, etc leagues in your town. The games are typically free to attend and provide you with something fun to do outside. I've found myself watching summer league baseball games at a park nearby lately, and I'm surprised at how much fun I'm having. I don't even like baseball, but it's good to get away from the indoor screens.<br />
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<b>How have you been enjoying nature and your surrounding environment this summer?</b></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>This post is in collaboration with Pronovias</i></span></div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-49449530228717310082019-07-02T00:01:00.000-07:002019-07-02T00:01:00.663-07:00Insta Lately: July 2019<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Thank you for all the comments on my previous post. Your words are much appreciated. Here's to a new blog post on the Muse! <span style="text-align: left;">It's been more than a year since my last Instagram Lately post and for good reason. So here's a little Insta update featuring stuff that didn't make it to the blog with a bit of background commentary. The background commentary is the whole reason why I do these blog posts, by the way, so you can know what really went into creating the photo. Do you have any funny IG stories to share? Hope you enjoy -- follow me </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ohtobeamuse/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="text-align: left;"> if you want.</span></div>
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<b>// <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/By7ncnvJYoe/" target="_blank">OFF on the Hoochee</a> </b>-- 6.20 \\<br />
A couple weeks before this photo was taken, I had discovered this coffee shop located right on the Chattahoochee River when I went on a lunch date with a friend. You really couldn't ask for a more serene view to drink a chai latte. So I decided to go back there for this brand photo even though I'm not really dressed for adventuring as you can see. I'm also very back and forth when it comes to my athletic build. At times I am in love with my guns (do you even lift, bro?), while other times I'm like put those things away. My arm is clearly having a moment here.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEeuw-MChVkMqEqSjy1kC0Fw9DJ4g8MV9BnwxoEnRT6lnAiHlpWJqYnQ1CMpGTejVq2Cu2DOOG9_lvRcCM8PbCID3_9ohF4BxTezQ5QBVfL6F10Yzw7Cz4m6ERwI00-Oy65cXLElsQSmv0/s1600/plant+based+off+botanicals.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEeuw-MChVkMqEqSjy1kC0Fw9DJ4g8MV9BnwxoEnRT6lnAiHlpWJqYnQ1CMpGTejVq2Cu2DOOG9_lvRcCM8PbCID3_9ohF4BxTezQ5QBVfL6F10Yzw7Cz4m6ERwI00-Oy65cXLElsQSmv0/s1600/plant+based+off+botanicals.png" width="800" /></a></div>
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// <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BuBluK2Fo8B/" target="_blank"><b>A Rose by Any Other Name</b></a> -- 2.18 \\</div>
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When I found Amorino Gelato in Buckhead I knew that I just had to stop by for 1) delicious gelato that I became a fan of during my trip to Italy last year and 2) a sweet treat dressed up to look like a rose. But, it's quite hard to photograph things that melt. Also, I later realized that in order to get the best looking gelato rose you would need at least four layers and probably flavors that I wouldn't normally eat, so I opted for tastiness over photo worthiness.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsPF8Y9lavDkmMhcqBve2aZp2DWNwqGWRROP9_Qj7A1UPeou4a_JXgWFfhXqgevJz0hkFDqVL0fYyVMhWTDSU9jMC1iaw2uBRp6sfSjk-6XWgewk9fSo7bLJ3rgtENbeJk0rOahcc1x8-s/s1600/amorino+gelato+rose.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="997" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsPF8Y9lavDkmMhcqBve2aZp2DWNwqGWRROP9_Qj7A1UPeou4a_JXgWFfhXqgevJz0hkFDqVL0fYyVMhWTDSU9jMC1iaw2uBRp6sfSjk-6XWgewk9fSo7bLJ3rgtENbeJk0rOahcc1x8-s/s1600/amorino+gelato+rose.png" width="800" /></a></div>
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// <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BsqCu1MlIGH/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Keep It Fresh</a></b> -- 1.15 \\</div>
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For this HelloFresh campaign I had to make this dish. I don't cook so this meal service is perfect for me. But even the idea of cooking for a photo was annoying, lol. I mean, do I even know how to properly hold a knife here? The plan came with three different dishes and I ended up only making two of them. The third dish stayed in my fridge past its sell by date because I got too lazy to make it.</div>
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// <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bp9sJV-lJ_7/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blurred Vegan</a></b> -- 11.9 \\</div>
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I announced my vegetarianism on IG with this photo of vegan food I got delivered. I tagged the restaurant to make it clear that I didn't make this food myself, but you don't know how long it took to get this image just right. The bokeh (blur) while keeping the background all white was not easy. I totally had to re-heat the food when I was finally done.</div>
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// <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Blak9lOlfK3/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Not So Smart Popcorn</a></b> -- 7.19 \\</div>
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I did a campaign with Smartfood Popcorn last summer. Their popcorn is ridiculously delicious, especially the white cheddar flavor. The point of this post was about having the movie theater experience at home with popcorn and Netflix. But I sent the brand a photo with me watching Netflix and they said I couldn't use that image so I had to use this one with the blank screen. So it's like...what am I even looking at? LOL</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzuY_TpJZHdh-Gbk53W5jiUw9Pt-H47LpdTN_70acl8qcH0d8r4HcXO4NsVq0E0ogR1i63mRJvbtDGwe5HXcbQSdPcft3p0ag275lwiY3-_0pl42Fp2pL5Rd0ej00DQadtz7uGdmoO3Xb/s1600/iglately3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1046" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHzuY_TpJZHdh-Gbk53W5jiUw9Pt-H47LpdTN_70acl8qcH0d8r4HcXO4NsVq0E0ogR1i63mRJvbtDGwe5HXcbQSdPcft3p0ag275lwiY3-_0pl42Fp2pL5Rd0ej00DQadtz7uGdmoO3Xb/s1600/iglately3.png" width="800" /></a></div>
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// <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BjFSrLzFsIk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pink Records</a></b> -- 5.22 \\</div>
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You can't tell because of the brightness level on this pic, but this is an Of Monsters & Men record. I shared it since this was to promote a music post on here and because this record is pink - how cute is that? I'm currently in the process of collecting more records, but unfortunately, none of them are pink. I had to stand on my dining table to get this shot.</div>
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// <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BgER6vil2Tn/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Going Away</a></b> -- 3.8 \\</div>
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This is when I was traveling to southern California for the BNP Paribas tennis tournament last year. The way this bag is packed is purely for photo purposes. The accessories clearly wouldn't fit and I also didn't take the palm print. Every other piece was true to the packing experience, but it did take forever to get this shot, again standing on my table.</div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-6811510194058791892019-06-27T00:01:00.000-07:002019-06-27T00:01:02.199-07:00Why I Haven't Been Around As Much<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It's pretty clear that I haven't been as active on my blog in the past year. The last time I was truly consistent on here was May 2018 before I began my Mediterranean travels to <b><a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2018/07/its-spritz-venice-rome-amalfi-coast.html" target="_blank">Italy</a>, <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2018/07/north-of-wall-dubrovnik-croatia.html" target="_blank">Croatia</a>, <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2018/07/blue-scale-all-about-mykonos.html" target="_blank">Greece</a> </b>and<b> <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2018/07/bordering-continents-boating-istanbul.html" target="_blank">Istanbul</a></b>. Once I returned to the states last summer, I made a lot of life-changing decisions that pretty much correlated to my lack of posts on the Muse.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5gc1Gg_1UFCO0tLN9E6E0L1-6Huc1Alm14zQyxGYU95GjG7XrTxIVgisyJULHlxiSnvaV_zXFMyusT9FgRdkcmZ9RW0XvlrXxaicnDRy7YXXO8PyBZMasKWQCbxG5UvhF_B6CMmKldNev/s1600/For+Love+%2526+Lemons+Women%2527s+Bright+Lights+Long+Sleeve+Mini+Dress.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="933" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5gc1Gg_1UFCO0tLN9E6E0L1-6Huc1Alm14zQyxGYU95GjG7XrTxIVgisyJULHlxiSnvaV_zXFMyusT9FgRdkcmZ9RW0XvlrXxaicnDRy7YXXO8PyBZMasKWQCbxG5UvhF_B6CMmKldNev/s1600/For+Love+%2526+Lemons+Women%2527s+Bright+Lights+Long+Sleeve+Mini+Dress.jpg" width="500" /></a><span style="font-size: x-large;">Last fall,</span> I packed up everything that I <i>needed</i> and flew across the country from California to Georgia. I started a new life (back on the east coast) all alone. Of course it was scary, but I knew that it was something that needed to be done. I moved to a city that I had never lived in, and I was living by myself for the first time since college. During this time, I also became an advocate for minimalism and sustainability. I declared myself a vegetarian (almost a year without meat now) and implored myself to start living my life on my own terms.</div>
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"I became an advocate for minimalism and sustainability...and implored myself to start living my life on my own terms."</h3>
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<span style="text-align: right;">This meant</span><span style="text-align: right;"> simple changes like volunteering at libraries, helping with environmental efforts, feeding the homeless, working at pet shelters, and finally making the effort to do things that I'd wanted to do forever -- like taking lessons to become a better swimmer, working on my green thumb, or just saying </span><i style="text-align: right;">yes</i><span style="text-align: right;"> when I would normally say </span><i style="text-align: right;">no</i><span style="text-align: right;">. So I was spending my time focusing on other things that made me happy and that left me with less of a craving for the blog.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8lFEhr0nypbBQG6MnoAPUsYPeOojUJOtGtd57OluPFrzs4nEnZxUY-gr1ZlHK7rLEoS8dj-lAC7JhFLoVTsyXLXdQGlhwOpw6vvRCxBznsHiJBDtKsOsKeaIWIlHjGmATR2lU3L1EdGG6/s1600/for+love+and+lemons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8lFEhr0nypbBQG6MnoAPUsYPeOojUJOtGtd57OluPFrzs4nEnZxUY-gr1ZlHK7rLEoS8dj-lAC7JhFLoVTsyXLXdQGlhwOpw6vvRCxBznsHiJBDtKsOsKeaIWIlHjGmATR2lU3L1EdGG6/s1600/for+love+and+lemons.jpg" width="500" /></a><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Up until this point, </span>my life was pretty perfect on paper. I wanted for nothing, but I wasn't happy. And I didn't feel it was fair to me or my partner to be unhappy, especially as we edged closer to our mid-30s. It wasn't an easy decision to make, but it was a necessary one. But even though my life is on the internet, there are many aspects of it that I like to keep private, at least until I'm ready to share.</span></div>
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"I was spending my time focusing on other things that made me happy and that left me with less of a craving for the blog."</h3>
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Now, I can't guarantee that I'll be as consistent on here as I've been in the past 10 years of blogging, but I will say that my yearning for blogging has been trending upward as of late. Honestly, I'm simply enjoying my life -- and the people in it -- outside of the internet, but there will be times when my desire to write and share on the Muse will take center stage. Thank you to everyone who has stopped by here looking for a new post, lol, or who still remembers Oh to Be a Muse and enjoys the content. If you don't see me on here, just know that I'm out living life...</div>
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| Wearing: <b>For Love & Lemons </b>- <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/417d" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bright lights long sleeve mini dress</a> / <b>Steven by Steve Madden</b> - <a href="https://shopstyle.it/l/44ol" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Greece sandals</a> |</div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com68tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-84115013643538030062019-06-25T00:01:00.000-07:002019-06-25T00:01:00.866-07:00What to Watch on Streaming<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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When I moved to Atlanta, it seemed like no one here had cable. Every person I met only had streaming services. Some didn't even own TVs. You can't imagine how old and out of touch I felt, as I've had cable (with more than 1500 useless channels) for longer than I can remember. But any day now, I'll end up canceling my cable and getting with the times. I mean, I already mainly watch Netflix, Amazon and Hulu. But I still think HBO NOW is pretty popping (people don't even say that anymore) even though there's no more <b>Game of Thrones</b> (don't get me started on that).<br />
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Since streaming services are where it's at, I thought I'd share some of my recent favorites that have taken up a good portion of my time as of late. I don't want to include shows that I've shared on the Muse in the past so everything here is a new recommendation (except for <b>Big Little Lies</b> because it's truly amazing and season two just started).<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Streaming Shows I'd Recommend:</b></span></h3>
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Amazon Prime/Hulu</h4>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR8a3eJQ2SG41FOz7GHnW8mbryH0pxmgTPVSzcb1tO1n1_Hh5hYm-GZhXgrDmAXRz7g2xP2FUYGytjORz-KzzCi-ulay-sTZc3tqMz-UVaHn0qNEHqj-z5q2k2ST3dEDprPBuDzg31Lro5/s1600/killing+eve.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="800" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR8a3eJQ2SG41FOz7GHnW8mbryH0pxmgTPVSzcb1tO1n1_Hh5hYm-GZhXgrDmAXRz7g2xP2FUYGytjORz-KzzCi-ulay-sTZc3tqMz-UVaHn0qNEHqj-z5q2k2ST3dEDprPBuDzg31Lro5/s1600/killing+eve.png" width="320" /></a><b>Killing Eve</b> - I believe I watched the first season on BBC America or AMC on demand, not sure which one, but I do remember how much I loved it. Eve is out to catch a psychopath assassin named Villanelle, but finds herself forming a relationship with the murderer that puts her in harm's way. Sandra Oh is great as Eve, but Jodie Comer as Villanelle is out-of-this-world amazing! Catch season one on Hulu and season two on Amazon Prime or AMC.com. It's too clever to miss. ♥♥♥<br />
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<b>Homecoming</b> - Last fall I watched season one of this show after learning about it from a podcast. It makes you unsure of what's real and what's deception. It plays with time -- one minute you're in the present and the next you're in the past and you only know that because of the color schemes used (and the terrible wigs on Julia Roberts). Each episode goes by so fast and each episode leaves you wanting more. Binge it in a day. You'll thank me. ♥♥<br />
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<b>You</b> - Initially I was very reluctant to watch this show because it was on the Lifetime network. But I happen to enjoy the show creators' work (Sera Gamble - <i style="font-weight: 400;">Supernatural </i>&<i style="font-weight: 400;"> The Magicians</i> and Greg Berlanti - <i style="font-weight: 400;">Dawson's Creek </i>&<i style="font-weight: 400;"> Riverdale</i> to name a few). I gave it a shot and thought it was insanely creepy -- too creepy to be on Lifetime. It's a psychological thriller told in a first-person narration that - if you can stay for the entire thing - really works. ♥♥</div>
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HBO NOW</h4>
<b>True Detective: </b><i>Season 3</i> - Everyone was a fan of season one and the exact opposite was true of season two. Season three is much more like what Matthew and Woody did, but this time with Marhershala Ali providing the brooding tone of a man seen in three different stages of life, haunted by a missing child, a murder and memory loss. ♥♥♥<br />
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<b>The Shop</b> - This show is hosted by LeBron James and features athletes, actors, musicians and comedians sharing their insights and opinions on topics across the board. I find that I like a good panel discussion by people whom I wouldn't normally listen to. ♥♥<br />
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<b>Big Little Lies</b> - I've mentioned this show and the <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2017/09/recent-reads-books-i-read-while.html" target="_blank">author of the book</a> that the show is based on multiple times on the blog. Heck, I'm even a major fan of <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2017/04/best-songs-from-big-little-lies.html" target="_blank">the soundtrack</a>. Now that season two has begun, I couldn't be happier. It's interesting to see how they're choosing to move the story forward after the crazy murder from season one (not a spoiler), especially considering that it no longer has the book as its premise. I recommend both seasons, of course. ♥♥♥<br />
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<b>Euphoria</b> - The provocative new series <i>Euphoria</i> is produced by Drake and run by Sam Levinson (who brought us the uniquely disturbing and entertaining gem that was <i><a href="https://youtu.be/d9qyOGEuLY4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Assassination Nation</a></i> last fall). The show is about American high school life and how social media, sex and drugs are tied into it. I should stress that if you're an older millennial or some other generation, then you might not be able to relate much -- or even if you went to high school in a different country (<a href="https://pinksole.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">right, Rachelle?</a>). Zendaya stars in this show and goes against what's expected of her by playing a girl who is rehabing and relapsing, in search of her next high, be it drugs or human connection. So far, this show is intriguing with a lot of shock value, but I'm not yet sure if the story will hold up. ♥♥<br />
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Netflix</h4>
<b>Russian Doll</b> - I couldn't think of a better role for Natasha Lyonne than her character in Russian Doll. Most of the time I don't even feel like she's acting. This show is like Groundhog Day with a true conscience. She has to re-live a significant birthday over and over again while coming to terms with her life and desperately trying not to fall down a flight of stairs. It's amazing. I'll probably continue to say "sweet birthday baby" for the rest of my days. ♥♥♥<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfDcnxcWkEMbEM1PNCA0B_yor57WCMMl2mqkx7-hVhcwcDX1NdvmdUOks8fHxZvq8QQFtAorOuX-5px85EF951h9WyR-PJI2IxTkrzl2-QEJi8H02DK-RVhKxE-ewSC9WhlryVcx9eRScO/s1600/russian+doll.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="813" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfDcnxcWkEMbEM1PNCA0B_yor57WCMMl2mqkx7-hVhcwcDX1NdvmdUOks8fHxZvq8QQFtAorOuX-5px85EF951h9WyR-PJI2IxTkrzl2-QEJi8H02DK-RVhKxE-ewSC9WhlryVcx9eRScO/s1600/russian+doll.png" width="314" /></a><b>Queen of the South</b> - This is a show that originally aired on the USA network, but I never got into it until recently on Netflix. I binged all three available seasons after Memorial Day weekend right in time for the start of season four back in June. If you're into shows like Narcos (or even <a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2014/09/what-im-loving-in-september-2014.html" target="_blank">Sons of Anarchy</a>), and you like the idea of a strong female lead, then this one is for you. It does get a bit ridiculous at times, but overall, is still quite intriguing. ♥♥<br />
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<b>Dead to Me</b> - My friend came to visit me and we started watching this together. It seemed like a random pick, but it ended up being a good one. It's about two women who meet and bond because of recent traumas in their lives. But their lives are more intertwined than they realize. There's drama but it's also very funny (and was already renewed for a second season -- <i>header pic</i>). ♥♥<br />
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<b>Happy!:</b> <i>Season 1</i> - This show originally aired on SyFy and I watched the first season on demand. It's the weirdest, funniest thing I've seen in a while. But that really only applies to season one. A corrupt ex-cop turned hit man partners with his estranged daughter's invisible friend (a blue unicorn) to find her when she goes missing. I loved season one so much that I gave season two a shot, but it just got too crazy to handle. I'd still recommend season one on Netflix. ♥♥<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Shows I've recommended in the past:</span></b></h3>
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<a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2017/03/5-shows-you-arent-watching-but-should-be.html" target="_blank">5 Shows You Aren't Watching But Should Be</a></div>
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- my hits: <i>Insecure, Big Little Lies, Preacher</i></div>
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- my flop: <i>Outsiders</i></div>
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<a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2017/10/what-to-watch-fall-2017.html" target="_blank">What to Watch Fall 2017</a></div>
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- my hit: <i>The Gifted</i></div>
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- my flop: <i>The Mayor</i></div>
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<a href="http://www.ohtobeamuse.com/2016/09/what-to-watch-fall-2016.html" target="_blank">What to Watch - Fall 2016</a> </div>
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- my hits: <i>The Good Place </i>& <i>Atlanta</i></div>
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- my flops: <i>Notorious </i>& <i>Pitch</i></div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com51tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2558210961108124107.post-63913246379088226222019-04-25T00:01:00.000-07:002019-06-11T14:28:11.079-07:00Smart Spring Cleaning with the Samsung POWERbot Robot Vacuum Cleaner<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>In collaboration with Samsung Home Appliances</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGa5Uk0tW_FkwTYjfAMUdbLUl7WOENRiwfzZFYmAbCvdF56UUYJOL_u6nbfoxoiho1_YjFrsRrhid2BshkH9_nIM6OLNZNtTC-ztVwkQMhuPfLuaSIbUN_sc0WZLaOBRGfmDkFvR5yGOGX/s1600/POWERbot+Robot+Vacuum_Samsung+Home+Appliances.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGa5Uk0tW_FkwTYjfAMUdbLUl7WOENRiwfzZFYmAbCvdF56UUYJOL_u6nbfoxoiho1_YjFrsRrhid2BshkH9_nIM6OLNZNtTC-ztVwkQMhuPfLuaSIbUN_sc0WZLaOBRGfmDkFvR5yGOGX/s1600/POWERbot+Robot+Vacuum_Samsung+Home+Appliances.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
A few things I need to properly function are a de-cluttered space, a quiet environment and cleanliness. Since I work from home, I have control over my surroundings. I like to find a cozy spot in my place where I can effectively get some work done while also creating a space that's optimized for accomplishing that day's tasks. But it's not easy for me to focus on work if I'm too busy noticing mess and dirt that has collected on my floors. That's where the POWERbot Robot Vacuum from <b><a href="http://bit.ly/ohtobeamuse1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Samsung Home Appliances</a></b> comes in!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNnnyhFxGreRcTmWzM0JHGzdfPCpaWKEhnfuslDGUbgXC6gxcfwdISygP8zqAEefWPpymoiWEAO2wof7rpnzYMQuplrcyF4frfAvoD-imF75VWT-GqzMuzaU2c78wFgebRWUBENBdnieIo/s1600/Samsung+Powerbot+Robot+Vacuum.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNnnyhFxGreRcTmWzM0JHGzdfPCpaWKEhnfuslDGUbgXC6gxcfwdISygP8zqAEefWPpymoiWEAO2wof7rpnzYMQuplrcyF4frfAvoD-imF75VWT-GqzMuzaU2c78wFgebRWUBENBdnieIo/s1600/Samsung+Powerbot+Robot+Vacuum.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
This spring (and honestly, for all the coming seasons) I'll be cleaning the smart way with the ease and flexibility of my <b><a href="http://bit.ly/ohtobeamuse1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">POWERbot Robot vacuum</a></b>. No more maneuvering old-school vacuums under couches or sweeping against baseboards. With the innovative rubber blades on my POWERbot, I can clean every part of my space - including hard-to-reach corners and wall edges - without even having to get up from my work station.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq7vFDw9oWosrSHMPzsgNy_unx3hbymWwcmev2qomdBzGmj3bPemJtkUS8v3myxQXmKFHQz0uAqAIOU_d_dyAybbBE-S2IJc-aSNfJAu9h4N-WZS-3EQkDVLmxSaHcenq92sDvv1BR_v0z/s1600/samsung+home+appliances_powerbot+robot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq7vFDw9oWosrSHMPzsgNy_unx3hbymWwcmev2qomdBzGmj3bPemJtkUS8v3myxQXmKFHQz0uAqAIOU_d_dyAybbBE-S2IJc-aSNfJAu9h4N-WZS-3EQkDVLmxSaHcenq92sDvv1BR_v0z/s1600/samsung+home+appliances_powerbot+robot.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
Another feature that I love about this vacuum is the remote control option. With the remote, I can turn on the vacuum, change the suction level, use the spot clean feature to move it in various directions to make sure that it cleans specific areas (and a repeat button if I feel like a particular area needs a little more love) and even schedule cleaning times. And when I'm done, I can have the POWERbot go right back to the charging dock with a click of a button.<br />
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If you're like me and your space includes tile floors, accent rugs and carpets, then you can appreciate having a vacuum that's optimized for multi-room and multi-surface smart spring cleaning. And do you want to know the best part? I can schedule my vacuum to clean when I need it to! I can program it to clean daily, control the suction and even manually change the cleaning mode. The Wi-Fi connectivity on the vacuum truly integrates smart technology by letting me control it with my phone's voice devices like Google Assistant, Bixby or Alexa.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_5CBpm_6JAVbw5gZ_QS2wegndKWHw5l2tm_cPq7j-jDb1Rg6DJ9BxUzW2gv_xD-pLpmAr1yDaHXrIYdKpIBE4qAt3Nmeb_n4c1YYwwODnpvvvk_kpcLpG3kNiQuPFgfcoMB-rKSPR09hq/s1600/samsung+home+appliances.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_5CBpm_6JAVbw5gZ_QS2wegndKWHw5l2tm_cPq7j-jDb1Rg6DJ9BxUzW2gv_xD-pLpmAr1yDaHXrIYdKpIBE4qAt3Nmeb_n4c1YYwwODnpvvvk_kpcLpG3kNiQuPFgfcoMB-rKSPR09hq/s1600/samsung+home+appliances.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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Benefits of the Samsung POWERbot R7070 Pet Robot Vacuum</h3>
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<li>Delivers 40x more suction power on all floor types when compared to a conventional robot vacuum</li>
<li>Onboard camera and multiple sensors allow the vacuum to create the ideal cleaning path while avoiding obstacles</li>
<li>The self-cleaning brush automatically detangles and removes pet hair</li>
<li>Large wheels let the vacuum transition from hard floors to carpet with ease while detecting surface types and selecting the ideal suction power</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJgMtFa8NzNzIA0-9h_k5zDWqUpDAeadoo5cQWko1dimeE2AXrC9shweR7Uf4ODwRM9wdYsXEsO04tx-cDji4TW33htceryx59gPKd1x2MZB6mI795B0Pi2vVVMHQbdmr_ynnY6mo1jLmn/s1600/powerbot+pet+robot+vacuum_samsung.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJgMtFa8NzNzIA0-9h_k5zDWqUpDAeadoo5cQWko1dimeE2AXrC9shweR7Uf4ODwRM9wdYsXEsO04tx-cDji4TW33htceryx59gPKd1x2MZB6mI795B0Pi2vVVMHQbdmr_ynnY6mo1jLmn/s1600/powerbot+pet+robot+vacuum_samsung.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
I honestly can't think of a better or smarter way to spring clean the floors in your space than with the <b>POWERbot Robot Vacuum</b>. It's one of my favorite items from <b><a href="http://bit.ly/ohtobeamuse1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Samsung Home Appliances</a></b>, and if you have pets, this vacuum is ideal for cleaning up hair. You can clean your entire place really without lifting a finger - unless it's to drink a chai or cup of coffee while reading a good book while your smart vacuum does the work for you!<br />
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Do you have any tips for smart spring cleaning?</div>
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Oh to Be a Musehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09415412584491432588noreply@blogger.com41