tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41633113984850732182024-03-12T22:41:06.606-04:00this IS my real hairAmanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.comBlogger337125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-15818905157400769242018-01-08T19:16:00.000-05:002018-01-08T19:16:04.720-05:00Dear Diary, How The Hell Did I Get Here?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Dear Diary...</h2>
When I was a young girl I was constantly writing in my diary. Every single night, I would write in the stupid thing. Expensive tiny notebooks with the tiniest fake locks on them. Obviously offering no real security, but I was convinced that the lock was giving me something. So I would continue to write my secrets down. Documenting every one of my deepest feelings, which consisted mostly of crushes, and, of course, while I was writing, I would hope and pray that nobody would ever read them.<br />
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The LifeJournal Days</h2>
Writing in diaries slowly transitioned to writing my angry thoughts, ever changing crushes, and weekend updates on <a href="https://letitallgofast.livejournal.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">LiveJournal</a>. Writing there was an outlet still, but definitely more of an obvious cry for attention. There's just nothing like shouting out into the world vague love confessions and threats to sometimes friends... although they weren't really all that vague at the time.<br />
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Actual LiveJournal content: "<strong><span style="color: #ff99ff; font-size: small;">--♥you♥--</span></strong>" <--- what the actual fuck? I mean, honestly, get it together.<br />
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In between my LiveJournal days and finding my next writing destination, I took a little break. Just over six years actually... and that brings us to a very long time ago, back in 2012, when I started this blog.<br />
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Blogging was so popular in 2012...</h2>
<img alt="Writing in Blogs" class="aligncenter wp-image-14023 size-full" src="http://whitegirlroadtrip.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/banner-e1515450806357.jpg" height="47" width="400" /><br />
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It felt like everyone was doing it, and I was so sure that I could do it better. I mean honestly, I'm fucking funny, like, how hard could it be? It was a way of life for 20-somethings and I was ready to be apart of it. So, my blog started out as most of them do:<br />
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A fun way to document my life and as an outlet to release my frustrations and negativity into the world.<br />
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It was a solid hobby, with mediocre photos, and no direction whatsoever. I wrote five or more posts a week about absolutely nothing valuable, and yet, people continued to read it and to comment.<br />
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Until very recently, I had owned my domain and that website since 2012. I still receive regular traffic and minimal ad revenue, so, it was basically just something I thought I would have around forever. Unfortunately for me, things have changed since way back then, and now a company based in Japan owns my URL.<br />
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Shit happens, I guess. And, now, you can find my content at a shortened (less cool) version of the old domain.<br />
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New Year -- Same <a href="http://whitegirlroadtrip.com/" target="_blank">whitegirlroadtrip</a></h2>
Being that it's January, I just thought now was a good time to check in, to ramble, to talk about the past, and to say "hey!" And that's it, thats the end, story time is over. Thanks for getting to know the same old me a little bit better. Happy New Year! It's officially 2018 because I finally said it.<br />
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Is there anything (like writing) that you've been doing practically your entire life?</h3>
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✌️ Amanda</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TlQK9Ge5LpI/Vk4OHrqHW3I/AAAAAAAAIrU/Y_cxA_grA2Y/s1600/Memphis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Memphis, Tennessee" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TlQK9Ge5LpI/Vk4OHrqHW3I/AAAAAAAAIrU/Y_cxA_grA2Y/s1600/Memphis.jpg" title="Memphis, Tennessee" /></a></div>
Aaron and I have spent the last week in Memphis, Tennessee. Well, I guess, technically, that is a lie... our campground is actually in West Memphis, Arkansas right on the Mississippi River, but I can totally see Tennessee from here. Plus, we did nothing but work and sleep in <i>West</i> Memphis. So yeah, all the fun was had in the <b>real</b> Memphis. <br />
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This was the first full week of our... what are we calling this? journey? new life? whatever. In any case, this was the first week.<br />
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We parked the Airstream in Tom Sawyer's Mississippi River Campground on Sunday night and there it stayed all week long. We worked, I had class, I did video calls, it was basically life as usual. Know what that means? It means it was pretty damn boring. But, we did go out to dinner in Memphis on Wednesday night, and it was the most delicious meal I have had in a long time.<br />
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We went to the Majestic Grille. Which was pretty cool because it is located in a building from <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">1913</span> that used to house a silent movie theater. So not only was the food amazing, the architecture was pretty interesting too. The reviews for the restaurant had me a little worried, because, many of them said that the service was terrible. But our waitress was great, and I probably wouldn't have cared anyway. Because one, my <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">$10</span> drink had me decently buzzed, and two, oh my god the food, so stinkin' delicious.<br />
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Alright ya'll, that is all from Memphis. Now, we are hitching up and heading west! Hopefully it gets warm soon...</div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Do you have any must see Texas destinations? Dining recommendations receive top consideration.</h3>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U7sxvBW59BE/Vk4pj7EoxkI/AAAAAAAAIuE/vcDOZF3vd8g/s1600/Memphis2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Memphis, Tennessee" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U7sxvBW59BE/Vk4pj7EoxkI/AAAAAAAAIuE/vcDOZF3vd8g/s1600/Memphis2.jpg" title="Memphis, Tennessee" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-voDBeEW5LWU/Vk4lZwUGs9I/AAAAAAAAItY/1SOjYJR2JmQ/s1600/Memphis4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Memphis, Tennessee" border="0" height="494" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-voDBeEW5LWU/Vk4lZwUGs9I/AAAAAAAAItY/1SOjYJR2JmQ/s640/Memphis4.jpg" title="Memphis, Tennessee" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5AmwaFuvzq8/Vk4laMw2sPI/AAAAAAAAItA/khe0xFv54xg/s1600/Memphis5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Memphis, Tennessee" border="0" height="494" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5AmwaFuvzq8/Vk4laMw2sPI/AAAAAAAAItA/khe0xFv54xg/s640/Memphis5.jpg" title="Memphis, Tennessee" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H7PPxciPQ1E/Vk4lacC9DWI/AAAAAAAAItE/QOytL2EXYe8/s1600/Memphis6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Majestic Grille" border="0" height="494" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H7PPxciPQ1E/Vk4lacC9DWI/AAAAAAAAItE/QOytL2EXYe8/s640/Memphis6.jpg" title="The Majestic Grille" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ep_W3CPGxDo/Vk4oPYHlIMI/AAAAAAAAItw/OjDN-02-F9M/s1600/Memphis7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Majestic Grille" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ep_W3CPGxDo/Vk4oPYHlIMI/AAAAAAAAItw/OjDN-02-F9M/s1600/Memphis7.jpg" title="The Majestic Grille" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LeULP_PCl28/Vk4lXjnupzI/AAAAAAAAIto/cmiJP-TTxa0/s1600/Memphis10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Majestic Grille" border="0" height="494" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LeULP_PCl28/Vk4lXjnupzI/AAAAAAAAIto/cmiJP-TTxa0/s640/Memphis10.jpg" title="The Majestic Grille" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uz2NtemIyr8/Vk4ofcTu-HI/AAAAAAAAIt4/4W0tIx9yg5Y/s1600/Memphis9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Majestic Grille" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uz2NtemIyr8/Vk4ofcTu-HI/AAAAAAAAIt4/4W0tIx9yg5Y/s1600/Memphis9.jpg" title="The Majestic Grille" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WEY-uCOKfXI/Vk4lXqAAIxI/AAAAAAAAItc/t76DXTvpAE4/s1600/Memphis11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Majestic Grille" border="0" height="494" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WEY-uCOKfXI/Vk4lXqAAIxI/AAAAAAAAItc/t76DXTvpAE4/s640/Memphis11.jpg" title="The Majestic Grille" width="640" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n9saWBw56ss/Vk4lYM4vbSI/AAAAAAAAItk/FusxcvxDedc/s1600/Memphis12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Majestic Grille" border="0" height="494" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n9saWBw56ss/Vk4lYM4vbSI/AAAAAAAAItk/FusxcvxDedc/s640/Memphis12.jpg" title="The Majestic Grille" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CnbQ-DhArtc/Vk4lYVcMCxI/AAAAAAAAIsI/Rl1Xz0vfM1Y/s1600/Memphis15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Majestic Grille" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CnbQ-DhArtc/Vk4lYVcMCxI/AAAAAAAAIsI/Rl1Xz0vfM1Y/s1600/Memphis15.jpg" title="The Majestic Grille" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-25j6LvnJ2Vs/Vk4lYJ_WxlI/AAAAAAAAIsw/hIB4bybKlrQ/s1600/Memphis13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Majestic Grille" border="0" height="494" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-25j6LvnJ2Vs/Vk4lYJ_WxlI/AAAAAAAAIsw/hIB4bybKlrQ/s640/Memphis13.jpg" title="The Majestic Grille" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Itu9mOAPbEs/Vk4lYAy_0HI/AAAAAAAAItU/5h0aplAY6Ac/s1600/Memphis14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The Majestic Grille" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Itu9mOAPbEs/Vk4lYAy_0HI/AAAAAAAAItU/5h0aplAY6Ac/s1600/Memphis14.jpg" title="The Majestic Grille" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BJZDn3gnizU/Vk4lYo3EoVI/AAAAAAAAItQ/x6YW3w9qjYU/s1600/Memphis16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Memphis, Tennessee" border="0" height="494" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BJZDn3gnizU/Vk4lYo3EoVI/AAAAAAAAItQ/x6YW3w9qjYU/s640/Memphis16.jpg" title="Memphis, Tennessee" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-3998319861695377932015-11-19T06:00:00.000-05:002015-11-19T06:00:11.392-05:00Detour One >> Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MbhukPVr90U/VkzWLI63DPI/AAAAAAAAIp8/31fwPqCt7_U/s1600/National_Lakeshore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MbhukPVr90U/VkzWLI63DPI/AAAAAAAAIp8/31fwPqCt7_U/s1600/National_Lakeshore.jpg" title="Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore" /></a></div>
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While Aaron and I were making the trip from Indiana to Missouri, we saw a road sign for the Indiana Dunes. Being from Michigan, we were like, "do you think they are <i>real</i> dunes?" Obviously, we had to go check it out. Turns out, they really are real dunes, but I was still much more excited about the really cool old building that we found. It was cold and ridiculously windy when we stopped, but it was a really cool national park. I would definitely love to go back in the summer sometime. <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h1I4xJ2k9KI/VkzdeskGKjI/AAAAAAAAIqM/VCptTTGBVRw/s1600/Lakeshore2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h1I4xJ2k9KI/VkzdeskGKjI/AAAAAAAAIqM/VCptTTGBVRw/s1600/Lakeshore2.jpg" title="Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2RNP39CeYF0/VkzdfT29LlI/AAAAAAAAIqg/80TiDEc5Ftw/s1600/Lakeshore6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore" border="0" height="494" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2RNP39CeYF0/VkzdfT29LlI/AAAAAAAAIqg/80TiDEc5Ftw/s640/Lakeshore6.jpg" title="Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-26350160548919869742015-11-18T12:22:00.001-05:002015-11-18T12:22:55.817-05:00Destination One >> St. Louis<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Aaron and I are almost one week into the first portion of our trip! We should probably have more of a plan, but that's really just not how we do things... I have absolutely no idea where we are going next, and all I can tell you is that it better be warm.<br />
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We started out in Indiana for a couple of days, but I'm not really counting that, because, it was horrible, and also because it was a required stop for Aaron's new job. Therefore, our first stop will always be known as <b>St. Louis, Missouri</b>.<br />
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I really don't know much at all about St. Louis, and I obviously knew even less before we visited. All I wanted to see was the Gateway Arch and that is exactly where we started. Aaron always spoils me and does exactly what I want to do. Probably because he is afraid I'll start sobbing in public about missing his dad. It could be love, but its probably fear.<br />
<br />
So, we ended up parking the Airstream in the Downtown St. Louis RV Park, which was essentially a parking lot with hook-ups. That is totally not a complaint. It was perfect, there was very little nature at all, except for my super cute potted plant.<br />
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We spent two nights in Missouri so there wasn't a lot of time to explore, but besides the arch, we also made time to go on the Anheuser-Busch Brewery Tour. The Clydesdale horses were the absolute best part, but maybe that's because I'm not into beer?<br />
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The visit was short, but I had a really fun time. Could have been the beautiful weather, could have been that I finally stopped crying about leaving home, could be a mixture of things. But, I also learned a fun fact about Missouri during our visit.<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Did you know that Missouri is known as the "show me state?"</h3>
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According to Aaron I am the only one in America that did not know this piece of information. But hey, I know it now!</div>
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<br />Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-48047914048905437902015-11-16T12:25:00.000-05:002015-11-16T12:39:03.187-05:00see ya later shindig<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am writing to you today from my spot in front of the Mississippi River, about <span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">650</span> miles away from home.<br />
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I've never been very good at goodbyes, and this time was no different. Actually, I would say that this was probably the worst. A week before Aaron and I were scheduled to leave, Mike decided that he should throw us a going away party/see ya later shindig. An incredible gesture that I just experienced for the first time in all of my life. No shame, I usually throw my own parties.<br />
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Well, actually, there was this one time, as a child, that my mom threw me a surprise party and I hid in the corner the entire time crying... but that is a whole different story. I think I'm still traumatized by it. Come to think of it, she probably is too.<br />
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Truthfully, I don't know how I ended up with such amazing people in my life. I've never been the girl with a ton of friends, so you can imagine my surprise when first, someone wanted to throw me a party, and then second, a million people showed up for said party. I never thought the slot for best night of my life would be taken from <a href="http://www.thisismyrealhair.com/2013/08/the-greatest-night-of-my-life.html" target="_blank">BSB Concert Night</a>, but the day has finally come.<br />
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I'm trying to get through this without getting too emotional. For that reason, I'm going to wrap it up. I love <a href="http://www.thisismyrealhair.com/search/label/Mike" target="_blank">Mike</a> for being sweet enough to throw us a party. I love everyone who was there to say goodbye. I love our family who was spared party invites, because Aaron and I were having an embarrassingly good/drunken time. I miss all of you, and I can't wait to see you all again.<br />
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<b>*disclaimer: drunk >> dark >> selfie stick >> bar photos >> they aren't good, but they are quality*</b></div>
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<b><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pur0iN2gX20/VkoPmTTSqUI/AAAAAAAAInQ/2krt3AXG52U/s1600/GoingAway14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Going Away Party" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pur0iN2gX20/VkoPmTTSqUI/AAAAAAAAInQ/2krt3AXG52U/s1600/GoingAway14.jpg" title="Going Away Party" /></a></b></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Am I the only one who sobs, regardless of my location, for any/all goodbyes??</h3>
Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-2243467315921894992015-11-04T07:00:00.000-05:002015-11-04T07:00:03.677-05:00take it, or leave it<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hGKvoyjTRb0/VjkSKFVgUSI/AAAAAAAAIk8/Y_9iHa-TjXc/s1600/Future_Lesson%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hGKvoyjTRb0/VjkSKFVgUSI/AAAAAAAAIk8/Y_9iHa-TjXc/s1600/Future_Lesson%2Bcopy.jpg" /></a></div>
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Recently, I was thinking about how much I am going to miss my friends and family while I'm traveling. I am a bit of a cry baby lately. And while I am sure it will be fine, right now, I'm having a hard time adjusting to the idea. I've never really been away from home for longer than a few weeks. So, even if it is only for 6 months, that is currently feeling like 6 years in best friend time.<br />
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When I think about how much I am going to miss my friends, it often, gets me thinking about other people that I am already missing. We all probably have some failed friendships, or people we just don't really talk to anymore. And I bet, for most of us, those relationships come with regrets. But those regrets and failed relationships have helped me choose how to best spend my time before setting out on the road.<br />
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I just really don't want to end up looking back on this time and wish I had done things differently, been nicer or think that I should have appreciated people more. I know that I'm not going to be gone forever, but I want everyone to remember me as the great friend that I really try to be. I want people to be sad that I am gone, and to miss me as much as I will miss them.<br />
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Even failed relationships teach us valuable lessons. Actually, the best piece of advice I've ever gotten in the failed relationship department is: Take what you've learned to better yourself/your relationships in the future, and leave whatever you don't need.<br />
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I just felt like sharing, because it could help us all. So, here is a list of things I am taking with me to all of my future friendships.<br />
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<i>Valuable Lessons for Future Friends:</i></h3>
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Expect less. Appreciate more.</div>
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Don't pick fights.</div>
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Be understanding and respectful.</div>
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Communication is key. </div>
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Be more fun.</div>
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Relationships don't have to be stressful.</div>
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Stop being so stubborn. </div>
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Stay realistic and reasonable. </div>
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Always be honest.</div>
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Try not to be a fucking psycho.</div>
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<h3>
If you've learned anything that I didn't mention above, please fill me in! Knowledge is totally power.</h3>
Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-29308759100583841882015-11-03T09:12:00.001-05:002015-11-03T09:12:23.561-05:00Happy Birthday Mom!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gk9iWO8KQU4/Vji9e7O3lYI/AAAAAAAAIj4/jMEjIE4caFk/s1600/BirthdayMom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gk9iWO8KQU4/Vji9e7O3lYI/AAAAAAAAIj4/jMEjIE4caFk/s1600/BirthdayMom.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
We might be heading out soon for a life of travel, but for today, all that really matters, is today. And do you know what today is?<br />
<br />
Sure, it's November third. Is it Election Day? Maybe? All I know for sure, is that, today, is my mother's birthday!!<br />
<br />
She asked me not to write a birthday post at all, and since I am clearly great at following directions, I decided to keep this short and sweet. I have also included only minimal photos so that she won't hit me later. Happy birthday mommy, I love you!!<br />
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</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qMUmyVxxHeM/VjjAYu0SF8I/AAAAAAAAIkU/nRvLQqySHqc/s1600/BirthdayMom1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qMUmyVxxHeM/VjjAYu0SF8I/AAAAAAAAIkU/nRvLQqySHqc/s640/BirthdayMom1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Plp7sFiK-Z0/VjjAYeDXaZI/AAAAAAAAIkY/DQfpNZI7Yuk/s1600/BirthdayMom2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Plp7sFiK-Z0/VjjAYeDXaZI/AAAAAAAAIkY/DQfpNZI7Yuk/s640/BirthdayMom2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o8CRw1KDyFc/VjjAYRC0K5I/AAAAAAAAIkQ/sOZjFDSam-c/s1600/BirthdayMom3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o8CRw1KDyFc/VjjAYRC0K5I/AAAAAAAAIkQ/sOZjFDSam-c/s640/BirthdayMom3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L6jRXhIRV50/VjjAZIYBtYI/AAAAAAAAIkc/iyJbdU8JWOY/s1600/BirthdayMom4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L6jRXhIRV50/VjjAZIYBtYI/AAAAAAAAIkc/iyJbdU8JWOY/s1600/BirthdayMom4.jpg" /></a></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Don't forget to think of Cheryl on this very special day. </h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
And definitely wish her a happy birthday in the comments!! </h3>
<br />Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-21261318007592130602015-11-02T07:00:00.000-05:002015-11-02T07:45:41.193-05:00please don't be that person!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LY3_3KS7pjs/VjN1mE8fstI/AAAAAAAAIiE/qgQpeV-7ebs/s1600/NoReplyBloggerfinal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Reply Bloggers" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LY3_3KS7pjs/VjN1mE8fstI/AAAAAAAAIiE/qgQpeV-7ebs/s1600/NoReplyBloggerfinal.jpg" title="No Reply Bloggers" /></a></div>
<br />
I, myself, am not a huge comment-er [which I know is a huge no-no]. But, I'm working on it, so if I take the time to actually write comment, it's because I really want to share a thought with you, and I am hoping to receive a response. I always just assumed the same for the people leaving comments on my posts, and that's why I try to respond to all of them. However, this is really challenging for me to do, if you are a no-reply blogger. This past week, I have seen an influx in no-reply blogger comments, and I thought it might be time to address the issue again.<br />
<br />
It is my understanding that most people don't even realize that they are no-reply, so lets figure that out first.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Step One::</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's take a journey together. All the way to your blogger dashboard. Check out the upper right corner, and click on your name. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FOhfLp79I9A/VjOF6nXd7QI/AAAAAAAAIiY/Pfd-PvSNDLg/s1600/NoReplyBlogger1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Reply Bloggers" border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FOhfLp79I9A/VjOF6nXd7QI/AAAAAAAAIiY/Pfd-PvSNDLg/s640/NoReplyBlogger1.jpg" title="No Reply Bloggers" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Compare what you see to the next two circles. Top circle/image bueno. Bottom circle/image no bueno. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BWAy2YfFRBE/VjOF6mojCqI/AAAAAAAAIic/J5ikUT4VVhM/s1600/NoReplyBlogger4%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Reply Bloggers" border="0" height="184" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BWAy2YfFRBE/VjOF6mojCqI/AAAAAAAAIic/J5ikUT4VVhM/s640/NoReplyBlogger4%2Bcopy.jpg" title="No Reply Bloggers" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's official, in black and white, if you are identifying the
bottom image, then you are a no-reply blogger. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But, don't lose your
shit, because we are going to fix it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Step Two::</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Back to the upper right corner. This time instead of clicking on your name click on that stupid wheel looking thing. Otherwise known as the settings icon. A drop down menu will popup with the option "Revert to Blogger profile." Click that bitch!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nnT-K6Jly7o/VjOJj3kb3hI/AAAAAAAAIis/tGv0-zjCQcw/s1600/NoReplyBlogger5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Reply Bloggers" border="0" height="194" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nnT-K6Jly7o/VjOJj3kb3hI/AAAAAAAAIis/tGv0-zjCQcw/s640/NoReplyBlogger5.jpg" title="No Reply Bloggers" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Step Three::</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Click that orange button, and don't even feel bad about it. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If switching to a "<b>limited</b>" Blogger profile is what it takes, then trust me, these are limits worth accepting.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cSx8jHqfarI/VjOKFvHu4bI/AAAAAAAAIi0/k9NTCjdisZQ/s1600/NoReplyBlogger6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Reply Bloggers" border="0" height="188" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cSx8jHqfarI/VjOKFvHu4bI/AAAAAAAAIi0/k9NTCjdisZQ/s640/NoReplyBlogger6.jpg" title="No Reply Bloggers" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then just keep on clicking orange until you find your way back to the blogger dashboard.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sj_F0zBAcWU/VjOK_zMEK8I/AAAAAAAAIjA/BY2xjQjNIAE/s1600/NoReplyBlogger7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Reply Bloggers" border="0" height="325" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sj_F0zBAcWU/VjOK_zMEK8I/AAAAAAAAIjA/BY2xjQjNIAE/s640/NoReplyBlogger7.jpg" title="No Reply Bloggers" width="640" /></a></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Step Four::</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now, let's go back and make sure that sticks so we never have this problem again. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Back to the upper right corner and the blogger profile button.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ayIRgFdmzYk/VjOOs7moKNI/AAAAAAAAIjQ/G0YTQBRwlzo/s1600/NoReplyBlogger8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Reply Bloggers" border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ayIRgFdmzYk/VjOOs7moKNI/AAAAAAAAIjQ/G0YTQBRwlzo/s640/NoReplyBlogger8.jpg" title="No Reply Bloggers" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then you wanna hit the Edit Profile button, guess where it is. The upper right corner, obviously!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yVlsfTrXMB8/VjOOtGeKfmI/AAAAAAAAIjY/kk0Y8sObzSQ/s1600/NoReplyBlogger9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Reply Bloggers" border="0" height="402" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yVlsfTrXMB8/VjOOtGeKfmI/AAAAAAAAIjY/kk0Y8sObzSQ/s640/NoReplyBlogger9.jpg" title="No Reply Bloggers" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
This shit is imperative so don't miss it. Make sure the box next to "Show my email address" is checked.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rHc6Lob5QaM/VjOOs2NQvkI/AAAAAAAAIjU/BO_wScameXk/s1600/NoReplyBlogger10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Reply Bloggers" border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rHc6Lob5QaM/VjOOs2NQvkI/AAAAAAAAIjU/BO_wScameXk/s640/NoReplyBlogger10.jpg" title="No Reply Bloggers" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Arguably the most important thing to do, make sure you click "Save Profile"!!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dHBEHiSH01U/VjOOs0G9QEI/AAAAAAAAIjk/EvO575r8Czk/s1600/NoReplyBlogger11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="No Reply Bloggers" border="0" height="176" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dHBEHiSH01U/VjOOs0G9QEI/AAAAAAAAIjk/EvO575r8Czk/s640/NoReplyBlogger11.jpg" title="No Reply Bloggers" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
That's it. Only four steps. Congratulations on becoming an actual REPLY-Blogger!</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sj_F0zBAcWU/VjOK_zMEK8I/AAAAAAAAIjA/BY2xjQjNIAE/s1600/NoReplyBlogger7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-73986009287022096232015-10-28T09:34:00.000-04:002015-10-28T15:47:25.097-04:0010 Anxiety Ridden Confessions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-15YBny8Wurg/VjDBj3K9_aI/AAAAAAAAIhc/0Yz0_3cwfDY/s1600/Confessions1028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-15YBny8Wurg/VjDBj3K9_aI/AAAAAAAAIhc/0Yz0_3cwfDY/s1600/Confessions1028.jpg"></a></div>
<br>
<br>
I know it is only Wednesday, but so far, this week has been crazy. It's not that my blog has ever been a "secret," it just hasn't really been easily accessible to the people that I actually know. And, it feels really weird to say, that this is no longer true. On Monday, I added my blog to my resume and LinkedIn profile. For some reason, that wasn't terrifying enough, so then I thought hey, maybe people didn't see that small update, maybe I should share <a href="http://www.thisismyrealhair.com/2015/10/i-dont-want-to-wear-sleeves.html" target="_blank">this</a> post on LinkedIn too. I blame Helene for all of the encouragement.<br>
<br>
However, yesterday is when things really got interesting. I have been waiting to share the news of Aaron's new job for a while now, and I guess the excitement got the better of me. Once Aaron made the announcement that he had given his notice, I thought it was a great plan to share <a href="http://www.thisismyrealhair.com/2015/10/leave-your-comfort-zone-behind.html" target="_blank">the post</a> I had written about our plans. I shared it on Facebook. My personal Facebook.<br>
<br>
It took about 20 minutes before I reflected on all the awkward and embarrassing things that I have posted over the years, and regret set in. Mike made a great point though, who's going to stalk my blog back to 2013 and then admit it? Lord willing, nobody. Does that make all of my worry go away? Hell no. That's why I decided to just let it out in this week's <a href="http://www.alannaandcompany.com/2015/10/humpday-confessions-i-dont-like-adeles.html" target="_blank">Humpday Confessions</a>.<br>
<br>
<b>I confess</b> that I may have jumped the gun on sharing my blog.<br>
We don't start traveling for two weeks, and I doubt our family/friends care about the "Mascara Favorites" post I have planned...<br>
<br>
<b>I confess</b> that I am terrified people are picking my blog apart and judging the shit out of me.<br>
<br>
<b>I confess</b> that I've only deleted one post since I started this blog in June 2012.<br>
<br>
<b>I confess</b> that I can't decide between wanting people to read, and wanting people not to read.<br>
<br>
<b>I confess </b>that despite being extremely excited to start traveling, I am really sad about leaving my friends and family.<br>
<br>
<b>I confess</b> that I am scared that I am going to miss out on important things.<br>
<br>
<b>I confess</b> that drinking together over Facetime to celebrate my birthday, doesn't sound the same as a real party.<br>
<br>
<b>I confess</b> that I'm ignoring my actual responsibilities to spend as much time with people before I go as I possibly can.<br>
<br>
<b>I confess</b> that my life really is a fucking dream and sometimes I get too overwhelmed to realize it.<br>
<br>
<b>I confess</b> that I can't wait to see the world and chase the warmer weather!<br>
<br>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.alannaandcompany.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Alanna & Company"><img alt="Alanna & Company" src="http://i1383.photobucket.com/albums/ah316/alannapersaud/HUMPDAYconfessions_zpsdx2x3uai.jpg" style="border: medium none;"></a></div>
Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-4101093639649795022015-10-27T17:52:00.001-04:002015-10-27T19:14:42.788-04:00leave your comfort zone behind<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jrXL97Gni7Q/Vi_ieVLBDVI/AAAAAAAAIg8/aC6PpF-7LCI/s1600/Try_Things%2Bcopy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jrXL97Gni7Q/Vi_ieVLBDVI/AAAAAAAAIg8/aC6PpF-7LCI/s1600/Try_Things%2Bcopy.jpg"></a></div>
<br>
Today, I decided to try liquid eyeliner for the first time. As you can imagine, [or as you can literally see with your very own eyes] it really didn't go all that great. I have been considering giving it a go for awhile now, because I really like the wing on a lot of girls. I just kept avoiding it for some reason. It was definitely as difficult as I expected it to be, and I definitely look ridiculous. Maybe with some practice, it will end up looking a little more normal? The point is, I tried! I finally gave it a go, and I'm no worse off now, than I was yesterday. Even the husband's reaction was entertaining: *shaking head* "You look ridiculous. Did you leave the house like that??" <br>
<br>
<h3>
<i>This post is not really about liquid liner. Stick with me.</i></h3>
<br>
It was brought to my attention today, that I have been... somewhat of a bitch lately. I will admit, there is a good chance that this might be an accurate description. I have been incredibly stressed and overwhelmed with some big life changes. Life changes that have come about because we have taken the first steps. We are now officially out of the comfort zone and trying new things. I mean really, I live in a damn Airstream. But what comes next? People rarely give advice on what the next step is, and that kind of bothers me. I'm out of my comfort zone, now what the fuck do I do? <br>
<br>
<h3>
<i>Are you ready for that secret I mentioned last week?!</i></h3>
<br>
Not only did I try liquid eyeliner, and find out that I've been a real pain in the ass, but today, Aaron, my husband, also gave his two weeks notice at his secure full-time job. In exchange for a 6-month contract position. This position is only guaranteed for those 6-months, but that allows us that full amount of time to work remotely and travel the country [while looking for another remote position]. I am excited and terrified. I am so outside of my comfort zone that I might be going a little bit crazy. Or I might be acting a little bit like a bitch, depends on who you ask, I guess.<br>
<br>
So what do you do, after you've abandoned all reason and you're waiting to see what happens next? You just go with it. Sit back, enjoy the ride, and see where life takes you. Because, really, what else are you going to do? You definitely don't want to be a bitch.<br>
<br>
<h3>
I challenge all of you to try something new this week/to do something outside of your comfort zone!</h3>
Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-74390757635626296412015-10-23T11:54:00.000-04:002015-10-23T11:54:11.818-04:00creamy shrimp & garlic pasta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ASC854B40OA/VhPqaswgJJI/AAAAAAAAIX4/yZLkX9G9I1w/s1600/FOODPORNFRIDAY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ASC854B40OA/VhPqaswgJJI/AAAAAAAAIX4/yZLkX9G9I1w/s1600/FOODPORNFRIDAY.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
This weeks recipe was inspired by a <a href="http://www.thisismyrealhair.com/2013/02/a-taste-on-thursday.html" target="_blank">post</a> that I did way back in February of 2013. I guess back in 2013 I was really into pasta.. so weird. Maybe I shouldn't have been so hard on my mother for not knowing that I don't like Italian food?<br />
<br />
The title: Creamy Shrimp and Garlic Pasta, is a little misleading. Not because it's not creamy, because it totally is! But because you don't have to make it with shrimp. Aaron doesn't really eat meat at all, and he thought it was delicious with no protein.<br />
<br />
Really, the best thing about this recipe is that you look fancy even though it is so easy (less than <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">10</span> steps!).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--6yCLyLiQ34/VipMwYa-_bI/AAAAAAAAIgY/aKyjRctfkLQ/s1600/Creamy_Pasta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--6yCLyLiQ34/VipMwYa-_bI/AAAAAAAAIgY/aKyjRctfkLQ/s640/Creamy_Pasta.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Creamy Shrimp and Garlic Pasta:</b><br />
<br />
(<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">1</span>) in a medium sauce pan, heat olive oil over medium heat<br />
add minced garlic *watch closely, garlic burns easily*<br />
(2) once garlic is tender, add butter and melt fully<br />
(3) add salt, pepper, and chicken stock<br />
bring ingredients to boil <br />
(4) once sauce pan has reached rolling boil, add pasta<br />
(5) cook pasta per box directions *do not drain*<br />
<br />
<i>while pasta is cooking...</i><br />
drizzle shrimp with olive oil<br />
add minced garlic, and old bay seasoning<br />
saute shrimp until pink<br />
<br />
(6) reduce to medium heat, combine parmesan cheese<br />
(7) once cheese is fully melted, remove from heat<br />
add half & half and desired parsley <br />
*sauce may be thin at first, let sit, covered, for 5 minutes*<br />
(8) shazaam:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HffYLhea9Oo/VipXSg367KI/AAAAAAAAIgo/SpVgiwXLWiM/s1600/Creamy_Pasta2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HffYLhea9Oo/VipXSg367KI/AAAAAAAAIgo/SpVgiwXLWiM/s640/Creamy_Pasta2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h3>
Ya'll.... this is so damn good. Totally dinner party worthy. Just don't serve it in Tupperwear... ;)</h3>
Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-17333602789792592062015-10-22T07:00:00.000-04:002016-06-15T21:27:32.502-04:00I don't want to wear sleeves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TGlbeBzj2fc/VielBFutFII/AAAAAAAAIfw/tzyV_5bkZMc/s1600/No_Sleeves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TGlbeBzj2fc/VielBFutFII/AAAAAAAAIfw/tzyV_5bkZMc/s1600/No_Sleeves.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Are you ready for a "brief" rant about professionalism and following your dreams? Shit is about to get heavy over here.<br />
<br />
The best part is at the end. It all comes together, trust me! If you can't make it to the end, just go <a href="http://heleneinbetween.teachable.com/?affcode=16898_144535231631b4" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>First up: Professionalism</b><br />
I say that I am too free spirited for an old fashioned office environment. What that really means: I am too opinionated and strange to be put into a box that determines what is and what is not professional. It is absolutely ridiculous to me, that there are still people who feel that "unnatural" colored hair, sleeveless shirts, and tattoos inherently make a person unprofessional. I want to live and work in a world where I can look however I please, wear cat t-shirts, and still have an amazing career.<br />
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Gone are the days where I dress up in some random outfit that I will never wear again for a job interview. I'm just done. I don't want to pretend to be someone/something I'm not. I just am who I am. If you don't like me, let's figure it out up front.<br />
<br />
<b>This leads nicely, I feel, into my next topic: Following Your Dreams</b><br />
I also don't think it is crazy to say, that at one time or another, we have all done what was expected of us, rather than what we truly wanted to do. Maybe you didn't want to go to college, perhaps you wanted to travel and live a little before choosing an educational path, but ultimately decided against it because you thought people would judge you. Maybe you wanted to quit your job and focus on your passion, and a lot of doubters had you questioning yourself.<br />
<br />
I have clearly had my share of experiences when it comes to my career, good and bad, but all of
them educational. There really just isn't enough time in this life to
cover all of the things that I have learned. And why should we? Why
discuss all that nonsense when we can just talk about that one big
thing, that one glaring thing that I just can't escape from, no matter
what the job is. You know what I mean, like when your teachers all
wrote that you talk too much on your school progress reports. Whatever
man, it is what it is. This is who I am as a person, it doesn't matter
how many times you punish me. I'm still going to find a way to get in
trouble for speaking.<br />
<br />
The number one thing that all of these jobs taught me was that I need <b>flexibility</b>.
Deadlines are fine, tasks are great, but I need to be able to work on
my own terms. I need to do things my own way, in my own time, and from
where I want. Some days I will work all day long and never leave the
office, and other days I don't want to turn my computer on, and I need
someone to be okay with that. I absolutely need freedom to be myself and
to live my life. Being tied down, the expectations of punching a clock,
it all gives me horrible anxiety.<br />
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<br />
All of these reasons are exactly why I live in an <a href="http://www.thisismyrealhair.com/search/label/airstream" target="_blank">Airstream</a>. But even more than that, and probably way more relatable, these are the reasons why I decided to take Helene's new <a href="http://heleneinbetween.teachable.com/?affcode=16898_144535231631b4" target="_blank">Quit Your Job To Blog E-course</a>! You aren't going to find a boss that likes you better then you like yourself! And as long as your husband is down with cat t-shirts, you can wear whatever you want to the office in your house.<br />
<br />
If you are reading this blog, there is a good chance that you are a blogger too. Please don't miss this opportunity to do something that you really want to do. Screw the haters and follow your own dreams. They can do what they want to do, instead of expecting you to do it.<br />
<br />
<h3>
You should totally do what I want you to do though. Go check out this <a href="http://heleneinbetween.teachable.com/?affcode=16898_144535231631b4" target="_blank">E-course</a>, you won't be sorry.</h3>
Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-19344861591675927592015-10-21T10:00:00.000-04:002015-10-21T10:00:00.495-04:00Flash Back :: Las Vegas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uYOTjrBP6bs/ViblqqYv3yI/AAAAAAAAId8/pZHE-YsuREE/s1600/Las_Vegas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uYOTjrBP6bs/ViblqqYv3yI/AAAAAAAAId8/pZHE-YsuREE/s1600/Las_Vegas.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Over the weekend, I literally saw a snow flake. I need you to understand how completely unacceptable that is. Partially because I live in a frickin' Airstream, but also because it is the middle of October. We haven't even made it past Halloween and Michigan has the nerve to be dropping flakes? Oh hell no. <br />
<br />
In honor of the unacceptable and premature snow, I decided to share some pictures from my trip to Vegas. Aaron and I went to Las Vegas for the first time this past June, and it was so warm and magical. Definitely, a different kind of heat than I am used to, and you guys, my hair loved the desert! No blow dryer required. Best time ever.<br />
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<h3>
Have you been to Las Vegas? Did you like it? What was your favorite part??</h3>
Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-34256557910639637102015-10-20T09:30:00.000-04:002015-10-20T09:30:00.852-04:00Taylor Swift Vibes Only<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bR-sqg1PwNU/Vh-tR8QA-BI/AAAAAAAAIbE/NVYebtlAW6w/s1600/TSwiftVibes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bR-sqg1PwNU/Vh-tR8QA-BI/AAAAAAAAIbE/NVYebtlAW6w/s1600/TSwiftVibes.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Right about now, you might be asking yourself, "How many times we are going to talk about red lipstick on this damn blog?!" I'll be honest, the answer might surprise you. We are going to keep talking about red lipstick, until people out in public stop staring at me, like I have something wrong with my face. So.. that might be.. probably close to forever. You might also be wondering why it is called the "party hard" red lip, instead of like, the classic red lip, or something more lady like. The reason for that, is that I like to drink. Be it iced coffee or vodka, I need a lipstick that holds up to a beverage and I don't really want to reapply it.<br />
<br />
With that in mind, there is just no way around it, the <a href="http://www.sephora.com/everlasting-love-liquid-lipstick-P384954?keyword=KAT%20VON%20D%20Everlasting%20Liquid%20Lipstick%20P384954&skuId=1552397&_requestid=71716" target="_blank">Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick</a>
in Outlaw is my favorite. It is ultra long wearing, it doesn't dry my
lips out, its dries with a perfectly matte finish, and the color is
amazing with one coat every single time. It's great by it's self, and the
other steps just make it that much better.<br />
<br />
I like to
start by bleaching my teeth, not everyday or anything, like every few weeks. I have this problem where they never seem
white enough to me. It's just hard when you're this pale. Your teeth really have a
lot of competition. I like all of the <a href="http://www.target.com/p/crest-3d-white-1-hour-express-whitestrips-4ct/-/A-14659720#prodSlot=medium_1_1&term=1+hour+crest+whitestrips" target="_blank">Crest Whitestrips</a>,
but the one hour are my favorite because I usually forget to do them
until I'm having a melt down about how my teeth aren't white enough. I put them on before I shower, then I can take them off about the time I'm finishing up my hair.<br />
<br />
After my teeth are at their best, I like to go in with the <a href="http://www.sephora.com/lip-insurance-lip-primer-P259615?keyword=TOO%20FACED%20Lip%20Insurance%20Lip%20Primer%20P259615&skuId=1242510&_requestid=73409" target="_blank">Too Faced Lip Insurance</a>
lip primer to make sure that my mouth is minimally stained the next
day. Of course, if you're doing it right, you really won't be leaving the
house the next day anyway. But, after that, I use my <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod2150078#" target="_blank">NYX Slim Lip Pencil</a>
in Red Hot. You really don't need lip liner with this lipstick, the reason I use it, is
because I have seriously shaky hands. I cannot stay in the lines. This will give you a really nice base and you can go ahead and paint that beautiful, easy to work with, Kat
Von D liquid lipstick right on there. Oh my god, it is good! And it is not coming off!<br />
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Now, I have to just put it out there, with all this talk of the Everlasting Lipstick, don't judge me harsh if you totally disagree, but I hate Lolita. I hate it. It looks like a Hersey bar smeared on my face, and it ain't even a little cute. No thank you. I returned it. Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-55818532669344110722015-10-19T11:20:00.000-04:002015-10-19T11:20:20.336-04:00roommates to sisters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RqMXwkZL96M/ViT3ts8ouVI/AAAAAAAAIbU/F8k3Zk20WZQ/s1600/Megan_Bday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RqMXwkZL96M/ViT3ts8ouVI/AAAAAAAAIbU/F8k3Zk20WZQ/s1600/Megan_Bday.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Way back in 2005, I graduated high school and started college right after, (<span style="font-size: x-small;">please do not get me started on the fact that I am still going...</span>). The first year went pretty well. I connected with my roommate, Jessica, and we became great friends. We had almost all of our classes together, we were basically inseparable. But, the problem came a few weeks before Sophomore year started. Jessica called me and told me that she was dropping out. Not cool Jessica. What the hell? Who actually drops out of college? I guess you do, Jessica. <br />
<br />
My anxiety immediately had me convinced that because Jessica was dropping out, somehow, I would never graduate, become a homeless person, and obviously have no time for children, because hello, I was already 20. Eventually, Aaron was able to convince me to pull myself together, at least until after I met this new girl they were sticking me with. This weird Megan girl, who wouldn't stop laughing on the phone. Seriously, like a child in a horror movie.<br />
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Looking back, I guess you could say, that it all worked out. Ten years later, Megan is one of my very best friends. We have been through so much together and I don't know what I would do without her. When you think about, its actually super cool that Jessica dropped out of college. Thanks girl! Really, the only problem with Megan is that she still hasn't stopped laughing.<br />
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<br />
Happy frickin' birthday Megan! I always have the best time with you, whether we are partying, eating, shopping, or doing sketch-up. Even though you made me wear a pink bridesmaid dress, I am so blessed to have you in my life. Love ya boo!<br />
<br />I almost forgot pictures of the food, which is, of course, why you came. I want to stress how dark it was in <a href="http://www.therootrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">this restaurant</a>, the pictures do not do this food justice. It was so so good. I highly recommend. Literally, the best pickle board of my entire life.<br />
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<h3>
What did ya'll eat this weekend?!</h3>
<br />Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-88324536833984235082015-10-14T10:26:00.000-04:002015-10-14T15:34:49.168-04:0010 honest confessions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k3RSvIc5_yA/Vh5iPzIk20I/AAAAAAAAIa0/YP6r4MvUk8c/s1600/Confessions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k3RSvIc5_yA/Vh5iPzIk20I/AAAAAAAAIa0/YP6r4MvUk8c/s1600/Confessions.jpg" /></a></div>
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I used to do link-ups a lot when I first started blogging. It was always a really great way to meet new people, increase traffic, and come up with new content. I wasn't exactly feeling my original post idea for today, and I'm all about making new friends lately, so I thought, why not try doing the "I Confess" link-up with <a href="http://www.pluckyinlove.com/" target="_blank">Plucky In Love</a> and <a href="http://www.alannaandcompany.com/" target="_blank">Alanna & Company</a>?<br />
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<b>I confess</b> that I am a complete control freak and that I get overwhelming anxiety over situations that are out of my hands.<br />
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<b>I confess</b> that I can't actually remember the last time that I worked out...<br />
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<b>I confess </b>that I was going to blog my favorite drug store red lip look today, but I ended up wearing a ridiculous purple one yesterday instead, so I didn't have any photos. <br />
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<b>I confess </b>that sometimes Aaron and I have romantic Home Depot hot dog dates.<br />
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<b>I confess</b> that I have been "working on" my blogs Facebook page for a week and it still isn't finished.<br />
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<b>I confess</b> that when I see girls I know in wedding dresses, I still want to try them on. Does that ever go away?<br />
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<b>I confess</b> that I might have a big fat secret.<br />
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<b>I confess</b> that I might just be getting prematurely excited over nothing (as per usual), so you're going to have to wait to find out.<br />
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<b>I confess</b> that this Bath & Body Works candle "Leaves" is seriously the shit. I love it.<br />
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<b>I confess</b> that I am late every single day, to every single thing, with every single person. Adios!<br />
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<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.alannaandcompany.com/" rel="nofollow" title="Alanna & Company"><img alt="Alanna & Company" src="http://i1383.photobucket.com/albums/ah316/alannapersaud/HUMPDAYconfessions_zpsdx2x3uai.jpg" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-41319082695176874902015-10-13T09:45:00.000-04:002015-10-13T09:45:09.553-04:0015 reasons I'm not an adult<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a_Uft3zwR94/Vg7JAmIYA_I/AAAAAAAAIWU/9AVo9d50yIs/s1600/When_I%2527m_29Header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a_Uft3zwR94/Vg7JAmIYA_I/AAAAAAAAIWU/9AVo9d50yIs/s1600/When_I%2527m_29Header.jpg" /></a></div>
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Recently, Breanna and I were discussing, that in exactly two months from today, (December 13th), I will be 29. She said something along the lines of, "Maybe then you'll actually become an adult." To that I said, and very loudly, "no freaking way!!" You're only as old as you feel, right? Or maybe it has more to do with, you're as old as you are willing to accept. With that in mind, I have created a list of 15 things that I will continue to do, even though I'm almost 30!<br />
<br />
<h4>
I will still: </h4>
<ul>
<li>go to the grocery store without a list</li>
<li>hate black coffee, ew </li>
<li>eat happy meals, for a boy or a girl, surprise me!</li>
<li>serial text, when someone is busy or not responding</li>
<li>buy two chocolate pies because I can't decide which one I want </li>
<li>drop the F bomb in public</li>
<li>love the shit out of Taylor Swift</li>
<li>stay in bed most of a day and watch YouTube</li>
<li>eat sour punch straws for dinner </li>
<li>sing Backstreet Boys in the shower</li>
<li>refuse to brush my hair for days</li>
<li>invest way too much of myself into my friends lives/choices</li>
<li>carry on full and normal conversations with my dog</li>
<li>waste gas and money by going to Target on the daily</li>
<li>wait far too long in between hair appointments</li>
</ul>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Tell me, I'm not the only child in the group! What are some things that you do, that aren't very "adult"?!</h3>
Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-63254151698601659472015-10-12T09:00:00.000-04:002015-10-12T09:00:02.814-04:00one of MANY moves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-36Vkp_DQfXk/VhrgBIxmuWI/AAAAAAAAIZc/8l5Jyref8ts/s1600/Airstream_Move.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-36Vkp_DQfXk/VhrgBIxmuWI/AAAAAAAAIZc/8l5Jyref8ts/s1600/Airstream_Move.jpg" /></a></div>
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If you didn't know, we basically live/we are parked next to a construction site. It's been great, not loud, distracting, annoying, dangerous, or crawling with men at all. But really, it hasn't been as bad as one might expect. All of the workers have been super nice, and despite showing up around 6:30 every morning, they haven't been too intrusive. I guess, my number one compliant would have to be the fact that I have to get completely dressed, before going outside to stop my dog from climbing into their cars... other than that, no big deal really.<br />
<br />
This week, the owner of the house being built let us know that they were going to be building a new retaining wall. He wasn't sure how long, or how tall the wall was going to be... which I found kinda strange, but what do I know (I only went to school to be an architect for the last 10 years). Long story short, there was a good chance that we were going to get trapped where we were parked. So, we moved. We are probably like 20' from where we were, just perpendicular to our original spot. It's pretty strange though, from inside the trailer, its like a whole new world. I can't even imagine what it will be like when it really is a different place every couple of weeks or months. <b>I cannot wait. </b><br />
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<h3>
<b>But yeah, that was my weekend. What did you guys do?! </b></h3>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cqn2QkIlWdw/Vhr5oKdItpI/AAAAAAAAIaU/9sontiXQcQA/s1600/Airstream_Move5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Airstream" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cqn2QkIlWdw/Vhr5oKdItpI/AAAAAAAAIaU/9sontiXQcQA/s1600/Airstream_Move5.jpg" title="Airstream" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TECmh2Jh8SU/VhriAg6voLI/AAAAAAAAIZ0/Kg-MZDMhkXQ/s1600/Airstream_Move2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Airstream" border="0" height="396" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TECmh2Jh8SU/VhriAg6voLI/AAAAAAAAIZ0/Kg-MZDMhkXQ/s640/Airstream_Move2.jpg" title="Airstream" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-74373464008835479642015-10-09T09:00:00.000-04:002015-10-09T09:00:05.091-04:00chicken bruschetta pasta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ASC854B40OA/VhPqaswgJJI/AAAAAAAAIX0/aI0U5Ipw3GY/s1600/FOODPORNFRIDAY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Food Porn Friday" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ASC854B40OA/VhPqaswgJJI/AAAAAAAAIX0/aI0U5Ipw3GY/s1600/FOODPORNFRIDAY.jpg" title="Food Porn Friday" /></a></div>
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Today, for my first Food Porn Friday I decided to rehash a delicious <a href="http://www.thisismyrealhair.com/2013/02/skinny-bitch.html" target="_blank">recipe</a>, that just happens to be one of my most viewed posts ever. So hey, it's totally okay to be excited, because this is a real big day. If I'm being honest, I'm just excited too. Excited that this post is finally finished.<br />
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What's great about this particular recipe is that it's actually two parts and you can finish both of them in ten steps! Or you could make the first part and then quit, like I did. Or you can keep going and make the whole thing. It's super flexible, unlike me. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EyLjEPVxel8/VhPwS5yrSPI/AAAAAAAAIYE/HThs3578eOY/s1600/Chicken_Bruschetta1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EyLjEPVxel8/VhPwS5yrSPI/AAAAAAAAIYE/HThs3578eOY/s640/Chicken_Bruschetta1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Bruschetta</b>:<br />
<br />
(<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">1</span>) wash & dry tomatoes, chop into bite size pieces (removing the seeds and juice)<br />(2) dice garlic & shallots<br />
(3) combine tomatoes, garlic, shallots, & chopped basil<br />
(4) drizzle with olive oil & balsamic vinegar<br />
(5) add a dash of salt & pepper, mix thoroughly, & set aside<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JMC4lFmC-ng/VhWYeruKSSI/AAAAAAAAIY8/EWp9PoAJq_w/s1600/Chicken_Bruschetta2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JMC4lFmC-ng/VhWYeruKSSI/AAAAAAAAIY8/EWp9PoAJq_w/s640/Chicken_Bruschetta2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Bruschetta</b> <b>Chicken Pasta</b>:<br />
<br />
(<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">1</span>) cook the chicken<br />
(2) cook the pasta<br />
(3) mix cooked pasta & bruschetta<br />
(4) mix chicken or serve with chicken on top<br />
(5) EAT!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h1Px_1mPMSg/VhWckkXxRkI/AAAAAAAAIZI/d8Q55S99WqU/s1600/Chicken_Bruschetta3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-h1Px_1mPMSg/VhWckkXxRkI/AAAAAAAAIZI/d8Q55S99WqU/s640/Chicken_Bruschetta3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Since I was trying to "redo" this recipe, I tried to make it the same way as I did the first time. But I definitely like it way better without the pasta. I'm just not a big noodle person...unless its spaghetti-O's, then count me in. My inner three year old loves spaghetti-O's and marshmallows! Have a great weekend ya'll.Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-47934513590286282552015-10-08T09:00:00.000-04:002015-10-08T09:00:00.048-04:00not really my best work<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ig3_o91d6Pk/VhU043duKeI/AAAAAAAAIYY/keGS0DCjdsg/s1600/weightloss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ig3_o91d6Pk/VhU043duKeI/AAAAAAAAIYY/keGS0DCjdsg/s1600/weightloss.jpg" /></a></div>
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It has been a pretty long time since I have written a post like this. Well... on the blog anyway. I write posts like this on Instagram, all the time (<a href="https://instagram.com/amanda_earles/" target="_blank">check it out!</a>). It's funny that I mention that though, because Instagram and blogging are so incredibly different.<br />
<br />
Blogging is just like... hey this is what's up. This is what I did this weekend, or I did nothing but eat and binge watch TV in my underwear all weekend, so, here are some tips you might appreciate. Blogging feels a little closer to real for me. Even though I know, that none of us share all of it.<br />
<br />
Instagram, on the other hand, there are two types of people. The people with "perfect" lives. Or the inspirational/motivational types: all happy and motivating one another to do our best. I am definitely the second of those people. Just this morning I posted about what a great day it was going to be and how I was feeling so productive. It is now almost noon and I am freaking the eff out. I have too much on my plate and I might drown. But I wrote that part of information here for you and not on Instagram.<br />
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That semi-rant brings me to today. It has been thirteen weeks and I have lost <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">11</span> pounds. Not really my best work. Sure yeah, I'm glad I lost <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">11</span>lbs, especially since I haven't really been putting in all that much effort. But damn! I don't want to be on a life long journey any more! I want to arrive.<br />
<br />
The good new is, that it is fall! It is time for sweaters and we can cover this shit up. It is time to transform and get your <span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">2016</span> body ready! Yeah I know what you're thinking, we say this every year and nothing changes. Well, girl, change it. Come back tomorrow for a delicious, and healthy recipe, start your weekend off on the right foot, and change your life!<br />
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<h3>
We can do it together. Are you with me?!</h3>
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<br />Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-69757267671961194412015-10-07T09:00:00.000-04:002015-10-07T09:00:03.781-04:00cleaning out...my bag<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3HtKVOjE-m0/Vga8JRWFMiI/AAAAAAAAIQc/t6yF8DgB8UI/s1600/whats_in_my_bag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3HtKVOjE-m0/Vga8JRWFMiI/AAAAAAAAIQc/t6yF8DgB8UI/s640/whats_in_my_bag.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have been wracking my brain trying to think of something interesting to post about. Finding topics can be somewhat of a struggle when you are in a bit of a rut, having writers block, or if your life is just plain boring. My life has completely changed and I am living a whole new normal. But, one thing that has stayed relatively the same is all the crap that I carry around in my purse. It was time to clean it out anyway, so I figured there was no better time for a "what's in my bag" post.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sK2ESf5DJAE/VgbEVoDWvtI/AAAAAAAAIQs/m_HFCT2jl04/s1600/things_in_my_bag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sK2ESf5DJAE/VgbEVoDWvtI/AAAAAAAAIQs/m_HFCT2jl04/s640/things_in_my_bag.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">(1)</span> I bought this beauty in the spring time.. mostly because the bitch at the coach store acted like I was too poor to actually buy it. Due to the situation, I sadly paid full price for it... But I definitely taught that sales girl a thing or two. (<a href="http://www.coach.com/coach-designer-crossbody-north/south-swingpack-in-embossed-textured-leather/52348.html?dwvar_color=SV%2FPC&src=googleshopping&cid=S_GPLA52348" target="_blank">North/South Swingpack</a>)<br />
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(2) That would be a greeting card for one of my favorite bloggers <a href="http://mykindofyellow.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Kayla</a> (<span style="font-size: x-small;">that I really should mail...</span>). Her and her husband just moved into a new place, and I am always looking for a reason to send a card. It was the perfect situation. I really like the <a href="http://www.papyrusonline.com/" target="_blank">Papyrus</a> cards... they make it seem like I care even more, because they are so crafty looking!<br />
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(3) Burt's Bees, what else do I need to say about that?<br />
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(4) <a href="http://www.sephora.com/sugar-rose-tinted-lip-treatment-spf-15-P240613?skuId=683847" target="_blank">Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment</a>, I absolutely love this stuff. Recently I have been getting this strange allergic type reaction to the salt on my beloved margarita glasses. My lips get all puffy and my mouth turns all red and rashy. So instead of not drinking margaritas, because who wants to do that, I just use this stuff. It makes all the red, itchy, rashy spots go completely away.<br />
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(5) My inhaler. I have asthma and sometimes I can't breathe.. not an interesting story really. Except for that time I almost died when Breanna and I went for a run and I forgot it. We were at the beach.. it was a whole thing and she kept screaming at me. Good job girl, just yell at the sick girl!<br />
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(6 & 7) $1.00 and an Ass-load of Change. That's basically my savings account.<br />
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(8 & 9) Writing utensils. The kind of person I am, I always need something to write with. The iPhone is great, but sometimes I just need to scrible something out on a napkin, or sharpie "for a good time" on a bathroom stall.<br />
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(<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">10, 11, 12</span>) <a href="http://www.target.com/s?searchTerm=Maybelline+ColorSensational+Lipsticks&category=0|All|matchallpartial|all+categories&lnk=snav_sbox_Maybelline+ColorSensational+Lipsticks" target="_blank">Maybelline ColorSensational Lipsticks</a>. People, these lipsticks are so so good, and so so cheap. I recommend that you go and buy all of them. Especially these three: 905 Brazen Berry, 450 Mauve Mania, 205 Nearly There<br />
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(13) My Lobster Wallet, because as long as my wallet looks like summer, I can continue to pretend that it isn't getting down into the 40s at night.<br />
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(14) A Sephora Receipt because I have a shopping problem, a Sephora problem, a Make Up problem, and I am quickly noticing a growing storage problem...<br />
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(15) Beauty Insider Sephora Makeover Card. Did I say I had a problem? I was wrong. My only problem is that I don't have enough know how. I obviously need a makeover and then many many more products.<br />
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(16) Keys and Taylor Swift. Everybody has keys... But does everyone have a Taylor Swift 1989 World Tour Key Chain? I think not. It doesn't matter what anybody says, I love her. I can't help myself...she's just perfect and I love her lipstick. I could Taylor Swift rant for days so I'm just going to wrap it up now.<br />
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<h3>
It seems like everyone has their one product type that they just hoard in their purse. Mine is clearly lip stuff, what is yours??</h3>
Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-9863677395229068412015-10-06T09:00:00.001-04:002015-10-06T09:00:05.126-04:00True Life:: my bestie left me for beaches & the gays<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U_PYystJKJo/VgseIhj0D7I/AAAAAAAAITg/AeUtRZP5w98/s1600/Connected.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="How to Stay Connected" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U_PYystJKJo/VgseIhj0D7I/AAAAAAAAITg/AeUtRZP5w98/s1600/Connected.jpg" title="How to Stay Connected" /></a></div>
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I've just been away from the blog for so so long. I would stop in for the occasional birthday post, mainly because of some perceived requirement, but really, it has been almost a year since I have been consistently blogging. In that time, so much has happened I met some new people and made some new friends. Friends that I thought would last forever. Some that still might and some that are already over. I made a lot of changes in my life and so did some of those closest to me.<br />
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Very recently, my best friend move to Florida. Actually, I just pulled out my phone, did some research, and figured out that it was four months ago. That feels shocking... but anyway. Breanna and I have been friends since high school. Regardless of distance, age, fights, or other friends/relationships, this is one friendship that I know will never change.<br />
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I thought it would be fun to share some of the ways we make sure to stay connected and keep our friendship strong!<br />
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<b>Social Media</b>: Bre and I will tag each other on Instagram all day long. Anything that is remotely entertaining or makes me think of her, boom tagged. For example: <i>"Stop editing your pics, what if you go missing, how can we find you if you look like Beyonce' on instagram and Waka Flocka in person?" </i>Tagged her ass immediately, get it? <br />
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<b>Text Messaging:</b> All. Day. Everyday. We are always talking. Even if we aren't actually having a conversation worth having, we usually keep talking throughout the day. The other afternoon she texted me because she was at an intersection next to a bbq place. Smoked meats is a topic to be shared. Or, whenever Aaron's little sister does anything that makes me question how intelligent I was as a teenager, I text her immediately, no matter what time of day it is.<br />
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<b>Phone Calls:</b> Although, in general, both of us hate talking on the phone, we have been making the time and doing it anyway. Probably 2-3 times a week, Bre will call me while commuting and we will talk for an hour+. It's definitely a highlight of my day. Especially when she calls me with the trials and tribulations of living with her gay roommates. It's like a really progressive version of friends, and I'm totally hooked on it.<br />
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<b>Random Emails:</b> Basically, when Bre is at work and someone starts giving her the side-eye for being on the phone all day with me, she will just out of the blue start emailing me. This is always very shocking for me. Like, seriously shocking. I, honestly, don't even know how she remembers her password. She is not the email type, friendship dedication friends.<br />
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<b>Visits:</b> I say visit<b>s</b> instead of visit because I want to go back right now. I am freezing my ass off, just saying. She's been gone for four months and I've already been there once, and I'm going again. I think that travel is one of those things that really expresses true consideration for another person. People don't usually spend that kind of time and money on people they don't care about. Which is why it has always bothered me when people (with no children) say, "I wish I could go..." wherever it is. I wish I could come see you in Florida, so I'm going to. See you in December, bitch!!<br />
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Photos from my trip to Tampa.</h3>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PcNYscwTCpI/Vg1ra7I1WrI/AAAAAAAAIUs/3bd8YTiBQRw/s1600/TIMRH_Florida4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Clearwater Beach" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PcNYscwTCpI/Vg1ra7I1WrI/AAAAAAAAIUs/3bd8YTiBQRw/s1600/TIMRH_Florida4.jpg" title="How to Stay Connected" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eKl_P4X-cyA/Vg1ryUfoEZI/AAAAAAAAIU0/6TXBQenIQEQ/s1600/TIMRH_Florida5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Clearwater Beach" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eKl_P4X-cyA/Vg1ryUfoEZI/AAAAAAAAIU0/6TXBQenIQEQ/s1600/TIMRH_Florida5.jpg" title="How to Stay Connected" /></a></div>
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<h3>
Do you have tricks to stay connected with long distance friends and family?? I want to hear them all!!</h3>
Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-63019488307581579812015-10-05T10:43:00.002-04:002015-10-05T10:49:09.047-04:00I was an ugly kid...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A lot of people are noticing, and commenting, that teens today seem to be skipping the ugly awkward stage, and going straight to the beautiful butterfly. With my current living situation, I am the perfect person to tell you, that these statements could not be any more true. Aaron's sister, my sister-in-law, Maddi, is fourteen right now, and the pictures prove that I never looked that good.<br />
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This past weekend was Maddi's first homecoming, and of course, it was a big deal. The morning started early with her hair appointment, followed by nails, and then makeup. Cut for a Taco Bell break, and then one million photos. It was a long day, but she was a peach the whole time. Actually... much more pleasant than I remember being myself...it might have something to do with having her look put together by professionals, or the fact that I was wearing fishnets and trying to find enough eyeliner to line the eyes of my entire school... Who really knows.<br />
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In any case, I blame the internet. Blogging and YouTube have changed my life. I've probably gotten better looking in the last five years of life, than I ever have. If only I had access to this wealth of knowledge as a child, I could have skipped the black nail polish Avril days... but if I had, I would have no experience with this cruel world, life's rejections, and you wouldn't get to see this: <br />
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<h3>
Lets take this moment and give thanks for all that our awkward teenage moments prepared us for in life. </h3>
Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-15310265966243310342015-10-02T09:00:00.000-04:002015-10-02T09:00:06.002-04:00I'm too lazy to feed myself<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It has been my intention to share a new recipe every Friday. And here we were, on Friday, with not a recipe in sight! It's just one of those things that didn't work out this week. Mainly because I haven't been to the grocery store in months. But, I can't even defend that, its ridiculous, I've eaten McDonalds like three times this week. I'm disgusting, send help.<br />
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So, I don't have a recipe. What I do have is pictures of some of the things I've been eating instead of cooking. Enjoy!!<br />
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We went to Terry's Terrace because it is close to our new home/where we are currently parking the Airstream. I remember going there one time and it being absolutely amazing. This time didn't quite live up to that memory. We tried the Fried Pickles, Lobster Bisque, and Buffalo Chicken Wrap. It was all okay, and it was kind of pricy. While I didn't hate it, we probably won't go back...<br />
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<h3>
What have you been eating and loving lately??</h3>
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Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4163311398485073218.post-73094681799297088312015-10-01T09:00:00.000-04:002015-10-01T09:00:07.632-04:00why I love working out<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Remember that time in Legally Blonde when Elle says, "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people just don't shoot their husbands, they just don't." Well, that's reason number one. <b>Working out boosts my moo</b>d to another level. So, if you've been feeling down, go work out!<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #333333;">Let's say you really aren't a fan of your boyfriend, but you have a huge move coming up. You can't very well end things with the person who is about to move your furniture right? Wrong! Many men today aren't walking around showing their heavy lifting skills anyway. <b>Lifting weights a couple times a week can help you gain independence</b> and then you can do that shit for yourself.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #333333;">I cry a lot. I would say, pretty much any feeling that I am having comes out as my crying: happiness, sadness, anger, whatever. And sometimes, especially when I'm pissed, crying can make me feel weak. Of course, sometimes you need a good cry. But trust me, I am seriously over doing it. So, it is nice when there is something else for me to channel those feelings into. <b>Exercise makes me feel strong.</b> Pushing myself when I want to quit, breaking records, achieving things that once were impossible, these things are not just about physical strength, but emotional and mental as well.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #333333;">It is not a secret that <b>regular activity will</b> <b>improve your confidence</b>. Working out and being healthy just makes you feel good. If a good mood, independence, and emotional strength aren't good enough reasons, I would think that being hot totally is. If I'm being honest, "exercise makes you hot" was my immediate thought after I quoted Elle Woods.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #333333;">Do you love exercise too? Why?</span></span></h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #333333;"><br /></span></span>Amanda @ this IS my real hairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17893792710857233651noreply@blogger.com3