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A wine love here myself, I am always keeping an out for unique wine gift ideas. Although giving a bottle of wine as a gift is always welcome but it would even be more amazing if the bottle was personalized!
Anything personalized comes from the heart because you took a moment to spend sometime to personalize the gift fit the person/couple special moment or occasion. Personalized items can be either etched or labeled.
Etched Wines offers a variety of personailized wine options. You can shop by occasion, from birthday, wedding, graduation, new home, new baby, birthday, anniversary, etc.
They even take corporate orders, as low as $25 a bottle includes wine plus etching. All other wines and champagnes, just wine + $15 Free set up + low minimums plus super fast turnarounds. Please note this is what appears on their website today, and is subject to change.
Personalized etched or labeled wine, mug, stemware, or oil/vinegar bottles are such an a great gift for that one person in your life who has everything!
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A couple of months ago, I blogged about my three top Amazon pick Camera Sling Packs. I ended up purchasing the Altura Photo Camera Sling Backpack and been using the pack for about a month now. So far no complaints and has been a great transition from my older backpack.
The Altura Photo Camera Sling Backpack is well constructed and padded. The bag has much more room than my previous bag, as I am able to hold two additional small lens and my charger. One the side of the backpack, there is a pocket and buckle to hold your compact tripod, which is a great addition from my old pack. The top compartment is great for my cellphone and other smaller items.
I love the easy access to my camera instead of needing to remove my backpack to access my camera each time. This pack is a great for everyday use or just walking around and you are needing minimal gear. Overall, I am very happy with my purchase and highly recommend.
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First I want to point out, I absolutely love Cricut and their products but I am also a person who love to save money. With a family of 5, I have to find ways to save on crafting supplies and products.
I have been wanting a tote for my Cricut but have resisted due to the price.
During my search on Amazon, I found several Cricut Compatible tote for the fraction of the price! Yes, a fraction of the price.
PATENT PENDING: Made of heavy-duty nylon. Scratch-resistant and durable. NO ACCESSORIES INCLUDED. PROTECTIVE: Thick padding sandwiched between layers of material, which helps keep the machine and extra tools in good condition. A removable padding pad at the bottom to reduce the risk of bumping and damping. MULTIPLE COMPARTMENTS: A main compartment (with adhesive straps) to secure your die-cut machine. 2 front zipper pockets and 2 inner mesh pockets for holding tool sets. PORTABLE: Sturdy handles and a detachable shoulder strap also attached. DIMENSIONS: 22.5″ x 8.75″ x 7″. Suitable for Cricut Explore Air (Air 2), Cricut Maker and Silhouette Cameo 3. Designed as a carrying case as well as a storage bag so you can easily take your machine and accessories everywhere.
PATENT PENDING: Made of heavy-duty nylon. Scratch-resistant and durable. NO ACCESSORIES INCLUDED. PROTECTIVE: Thick padding sandwiched between layers of material, which helps keep the machine and extra tools in good condition. A removable padding pad at the bottom to reduce the risk of bumping and damping. MULTIPLE COMPARTMENTS: A main compartment (with adhesive straps) to secure your die-cut machine. 2 front zipper pockets and 2 inner mesh pockets for holding tool sets. PORTABLE: Sturdy handles and a detachable shoulder strap also attached. DIMENSIONS: 22.5″ x 8.75″ x 7″. Suitable for Cricut Explore Air (Air 2), Cricut Maker and Silhouette Cameo 3. Designed as a carrying case as well as a storage bag so you can easily take your machine and accessories everywhere.
WELL PADDED PROTECT DIE-CUT MACHINE: This carry case is the best kick to store your cutting machine. It is heavily guarded with padding from all sides to protect it from physical damage. Fully cushioned in the base safeguard the machine from the irregular bumps while transporting. 2 Velcro straps help fasten the machine and hold it in place when traveling BONUS DUST COVER: It came with a black dust cover to protect your beloved cutting machine under wraps while being protected from dust and liquids. Keep your valuable investment in good working order for as long as possible ENJOY THE FREEDOM AND CONVENIENCE OF TAKING YOUR MACHINE WITH YOU: With comfortable carry handles and an adjustable over-the-shoulder strap, this bag is perfect traveling. Also available to stack with your luggage to combine the roll-behind ease of the trolly with the smaller, more portable function of the tote MULTIPLE STORAGE POCKETS FOR ACCESSORIES: This storage bag features 2 front pockets to hold power cords, pens within easy reach, 2 inside see-through pockets for pens, scoring tools, and other craft essentials you need to travel with. The transparent pockets easy to access to what you pack GENEROUS MAIN COMPARTMENT: Storing machines up to 23.5 x 7.5 x 8.75 inches. Spacey main compartment can easily accommodate your cutting machine with enough room for your projects as well, compatible with Cricut Explore Air 2, Cricut Maker, Cricut Air. BAG ONLY
PROTECTIVE: Made of heavy-duty nylon. Thick padding keeps the machines in good condition. A removable bottom padding pad to reduce the risk of bumping. 4 thick bottom rubber pads to prevent scraping. (Patent Pending) MULTIPLE COMPARTMENTS: 3 padded pockets for storing easy press (9 x 9 inches), safety base and heat press mat. The main compartment is to secure the die-cut machine. There is also an extra room for extras like rolls of vinyl. ACCESSORIES POCKETS: 3 front pockets, 2 side pockets and 2 inner zipper pockets for holding Cricut pens, basic tools and other supplies. PORTABLE: A vertical strap on back for slipping over a rolling bag handle. Sturdy handles and a detachable shoulder strap also attached. DIMENSIONS: 22″ x 11″ x 12″. Suitable for Cricut Explore Air (Air 2), Cricut Maker and Silhouette Cameo 3. (Please note that the padded pockets fits for 9″ x 9″ Cricut easy press.)
Since I have the 9X9 Cricut Easy Press, I am very excited to see the compatible bag and I am hoping to order one of these reasonable bags for my Cricut Maker!
I hope this post helps you save on your Cricut machine tote/bag needs! Happy Crafting!
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While shopping for my typical health coffee creamer, Coffee Mates new flavor caught my eye. Its amazing! Its definitely a treat! To go along with my favorite coffee bean SF BAY Coffee. I purchase whole beans because I prefer fresh ground coffee.
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I was seeking a lightweight shoulder bag with a lot of room. My current Coach bag as a longer strap and was placing a lot of weight directly onto my shoulder due to the length of the strap. In addition, my Coach work bag is heavier due to the leather. After searching for about 2 weeks, I finally decided to purse the Sunny Snowy laptop bag due to the size, 4.7 stars our to 5 and with over 1400 reviews. With the DIMENSIONS(LxWxH):17.1″L*5.5″W*14.5″H,Weight:Only 1.23lb, it this was the perfect bag. The shoulder strap length is perfect!
(Warning please excuse the no make photos)
I love the front pocket as you can tell it provides me easy access to my cell phone.
Inside the bag, there is a lot of room and plenty of space for my laptop.
Nice zipper area inside to hold keys or other items you want to secureMy laptop fits nicely inside and has a Velcro strap to secure my laptop
I absolutely love the tote and I personally give a rating of 5 out of 5! Highly recommend
Check out a short video n the Cricut Maker write and cut function from my Instagram post.
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I made these Valentines coloring page cards for my granddaughter’s daycare. I am waiting for the Crayons to arrive to add to the Valentines coloring card. I figure I would place two on the card and leave the additional two crayons in the box for the child to take home. Found this cute project on the Cricut Design with my free Cricut access membership. Worth purchasing the Cricut access membership!
Sharing a couple of the kids valentines cards we made today. The cuts were found in the Cricut Design space with some alternations to allow for write and cut. They came out super cute!
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Scored a brand new Free Country women’s Free Form Super Soft Jacket by Free Country for $12.50 and Lucky brand jeans for $6.00. I purchased 5 blouses but not picturing here today. In addition, today the thrift store was having their $0.99 sweater sale so I grab a couple of sweaters. I walked out to the thrift store only spending $40.
I think the most satisfying thing for me is when someone asks me where I got that shirt, pants, jacket, etc. I proudly say, “the thrift store”. Yes! you can buy amazing pieces at the thrift store.
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Came across a store on Amazon called Hot Chocolate Design. They offer such a unique mix of vintage and modern design in flats, heels, platforms, handbags and wallets. They also offer a selection of girls toddler, kid and big kid sizes in flats.
4.5 stars out of 5 ratings and over a thousand ratings! Go check them out! Below are a few examples of the unique shoes offered.
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Found some amazing personalized gifts for your spouse during Valentines on A Gift Personalized and Amazon. I absolutely love the intersection street signs.
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This week’s American Heart theme is to move more. Move more and sit less! Building into daily activity is one step at a time. Walking is one of the easiest ways to move more! For most people, it’s safe, easy to stick with, and low- or no-cost. It doesn’t require any special skills or equipment. For such a simple activity, it has so many benefits.
The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. That is 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.
If it’s been awhile since you been active, simply start walking. Park further away to increase your daily steps. Grab a friend or family member and go for a walk. Start slow but also listen to your body, if are experience any discomfort, stop and discuss with your doctor. Other non-impact exercise is swimming and cycling to incorporate into moving more.
Research has shown that walking at a lively pace at least 150 minutes a week can help you:
Think better, feel better and sleep better.
Reduce your risk of serious diseases like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and several types of cancer.
Improve your blood pressure, blood sugar and blood cholesterol levels.
Adding a pedometer is a great tool to help increase those steps. Pedometers aren’t 100% accurate but I believe it’s a great tool to help gauge your daily steps and set goals week to week to increase your weekly average steps. I love my Fitbit but here are some other budget friendly watches
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On the hunt for that perfect valentine gift for your single friends? Well what about the girlfriend or boyfriend pillow! Or better yet, buy this for yourself for when your significant other is away or this could be a perfect gag gift!
“Perhaps your partner travels on business often or works the opposite shift as you. Just spray the t-shirt cover with his preferred scent and it’s almost like he never left!”
Colorado put on a amazing show as we needed our first day in February. I captured a video, it’s breathtaking. Stand in silence, look around, and be gratiful for another being given another day here on earth. Hug your loved ones and tell them you love them!
#OurHearts is an inspiring way for The Heart Truth®to get people across the country to join together with friends, family, coworkers and others in their community to prevent heart disease.
Heart disease was one of my families #1 killer along side diabetes. My dad had both. My dad’s passed away due to congestive heart failure (CHF) and an ejection fraction (EF) of 25%. Granted he had another diagnosis which exacerbated his CHF but his death was related to his heart disease.
The words can be misleading. “Heart Failure” doesn’t mean the heart has stopped working. It means it can’t pump properly—so it doesn’t fully support the body’s need for blood and oxygen. Heart Failure is a chronic condition that worsens over time and can lead to hospitalization and even death. Annually, more than 900,000 hospitalizations have a primary diagnosis of Heart Failure—that’s nearly 2 hospitalizations every minute.
My dad had a long history of heart related diagnosis’s. Heart attack in his early 50’s, triple heart bypass, multiple stents, CHF, and the list goes on. But I will never forget the day we were told his EF was at 25%, as a nurse my heart sunk I knew what this meant. But my world was crushed when we were told a EF of less than 30% means hospice care. Means there was nothing more they can do. My dad always had a saying, “I have one foot in the grave and one on a banana peel” and well I guess this is it.
I will never forget the fear in his eyes as we moved through the transition into hospice. My hero was dying and now it was time to make his last journey on earth peaceful and painless.
Being a women approaching my 50’s within a few years, I realize due to family genetics and being a women, I have a high risk of an attack. I make every effort to exercise, rest, reduce stress and eat healthy. Am I perfect, no but I try.
I am trying to fight against my family history of heart disease and hope I can change our family story.
The first step in fighting against heart disease is education and awareness, why I have made February my mission to help spread the word about #ourheart.
Risk factors are conditions or habits that make a person more likely to develop a disease. They can also increase the chances that an existing disease will get worse. Important risk factors for heart disease are:
Some risk factors, such as age and family history of early heart disease, can’t be changed.
For women, age becomes a risk factor at 55. After menopause, women are more apt to get heart disease, in part because their body’s production of estrogen drops. Women who have gone through early menopause, either naturally or because they have had a hysterectomy, are twice as likely to develop heart disease as women of the same age who have not yet gone through menopause. Another reason for the increasing risk is that middle age is a time when women tend to develop risk factors for heart disease.
Family history of early heart disease is another risk factor that can’t be changed. If your father or brother had a heart attack before age 55, or if your mother or sister had one before age 65, you are more likely to get heart disease yourself. Preeclampsia is another heart disease risk factor that you can’t control. However, if you’ve had the condition, you should take extra care to try to control other heart disease risk factors.
Being more physically active and eating a healthy diet are important steps for your heart health. You can make the changes gradually, one at a time. But making them is very important.
You may wonder: If I have just one risk factor for heart disease—say, I’m overweight or I have high blood cholesterol—aren’t I more or less “safe”? Absolutely not. Each risk factor greatly increases a woman’s chance of developing heart disease. But having more than one risk factor is especially serious, because risk factors tend to “gang up” and worsen each other’s effects. So, the message is clear: Every woman needs to take her heart disease risk seriously—and take action now to reduce that risk.
My Message:
As a women, we tend to neglect ourselves because we are so busy taking care of others. We don’t have time to exercise or make time for your annual physical with your doctor. We are exhausted but keep going, chasing kids, parenting teenagers, working, cooking, caring for our parents, and etc. The list goes on, right?
Women your health is important! Find ways to add healthy habits into your lives. Find ways to relax and reduce stress, here is a great link to American Heart Association in reducing stress. Make 2020 about a healthier you!
“Love is the capacity to take care, to protect, to nourish. If you are not capable of generatng that kind of energy toward yourself – if you are not capable of taking care of yourself, of nourishing yourself, of protecting yourself – it is very difficult to take care of another person. In the Buddhist teaching, it’s clear that to love oneself is the foundation of the love of other people. Love is a practice. Love is truly a practice.” ~ Nhat Hanh
Research has shown that having social support and personal networks makes getting regular physical activity, eating healthy, managing stress, and quitting smoking easier. During American Heart Month, assemble your squad and use #OurHearts to share how you’re working together to be heart healthy.NHLBI
Gather your family and friends, make a commitment to make some changes to prevent heart disease.
NHLBI – Want to know the number of people affected by heart diease in your state
Skinny Taste – I find this site helpful in finding healthy recipes based on your nutritional needs and also provides weekly meal plans which is half the battle.
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Anyone who has a camera back pack understands the frustration of having to remove your pack to access your gear. It’s frustrating and can be cumbersome when you are trying to capture that unexpected photo opportunity, and then your really upset when you missed the shot! UGH Who hasn’t been in that situation?
Since I am in the market in replacing my 13 year old day pack, I thought I should considered a sling pack instead. My current pack, although 13 years old has held up very well I am seeking a sling bag for convenience and easy access to my camera.
My old pack
My top two picks is the Altura Photo Camera Sling Backpack Bag and the Lowepro Passport Sling III – A Protective Sling Bag for a Compact DSLR or CSC. The gear is easily accessible and based on the measurements would fit the gear I use when out walking around and attempting to capture that perfect photo.
Features - Curved, padded sling strap allows bag to rotate to front of body without removing - Designed to fit DSLR cameras and lenses, mirrorless cameras, DJI Mavic Pro Drone and accessories - Side-zippered main compartment with customizable, sturdy, padded dividers - Top compartment for flashes and other shooting essentials - Mesh interior pockets for smaller items - Tripod/monopod holder on exterior - Dimensions: 8.5" x 5.5" x 16" (LxWxH)
Lowepro Passport Sling III – A Protective Sling Bag for a Compact DSLR or CSCFits Gear: CSC (such as Sony NEX 6 or similar) OR compact DSLR (such as Nikon D3200 with 18-55mm lens) ; Extra lens or flash ; Tablet ; Smartphone; Personal items. This one even has a pocket for a water bottle. Dimensions: 17.3 x 5.7 x 16.1 inches. Space for your camera. Space for your personal gear. Space for your tablet. That’s what you get with the discreet, protective and versatile Passport Sling III. The impact-resistant, removable camera insert adjusts to fit a compact DSLR or CSC, and the expandable compartment increases interior storage by 30% with a quick unzipping. The CradleFit System tablet pocket with floating-foam construction suspends and protects your device within the pack, while the interior zip mesh pocket secures smaller items within bag. The adjustable shoulder strap with cam lock buckle and removable shoulder pad allows for extra wearing comfort. The outer pockets are roomy enough to store water bottle or other quick-grab items. The Passport Sling III fits a CSC (such as Sony NEX 6 or similar) or compact DSLR (such as Nikon D3200 with 18-55mm lens), extra lens or flash, tablet, smartphone and personal items. – Information copied from product company
Next is Paul lightweight sling is great if you are wanting to carry your tripod and are not need a lot of space
The DSLR Camera Bag Waterproof Camera Sling Backpack with Rain Cover Outdoor Travel Backpack Camera Bag Case for Laptop Canon Nikon Sony Pentax DSLR Cameras,Lens,Tripod and Accessories – ◆Multi compartments to keep things organized: This camera Sling backpack provides spacious room for handy storage and convenient organization. Inner camera bag size: 9. 4*5. 5*14. 2in, Fits 1 camera body, 2 lenses, Chargers and accessories; The front Velcro pocket for your memory cards, batteries and small things; 1 side mesh pocket for water bottle, the other side pocket for your phone up to 6″; the back pocket for mini iPad up to 9. 7″; the tripod can be fixed at the bottom detachable strap.◆Well made to offer premium protection: The DSLR camera bag is made from highly dense nylon material which is dustproof, waterproof, anti-pressure, reinforced stitching at stress points, smoothly track Dual metal zippers and the padding on this sling backpack is super thick to fully protect the camera, lens, laptop from accidental shocks and scratches. The included waterproof rain cover which stored in the back bottom pocket to protect the sling camera backpack from heavy rain.◆Adjustable padded dividers to fit your needs: The inside padded dividers of the sling camera bag is adjustable to suite the layout your want, fit all kinds of DSLR camera body, camera lens, battery and other accessories. You could also take the cushioned dividers out to convert the DSLR camera Sling backpack into leisure outdoor travel backpack bag to storing your various daily objects such as iPad, umbrella, cellphones, wallets and other daily necessities.◆Padded shoulder strap for comfortable fit: adjustable soft padded CROSSBODY shoulder strap provides a comfortable fit for wide range of people sizes, makes this sling camera backpack with laptop compartment suitable for men and women At any ages. The extra detachable chest strap adds stability for your gear by minimizing camera movement during activity. Breathable mesh cotton back support to keep your back cool and dry.◆100% Satisfied: zipper with thickened metal, high dense & Scratch-resistant & waterproof nylon material, strong stitching at stress points will you a perfect protection of your camera and accessories. We believe our camera case is the best out there and that you will be 100% satisfied with it. If the waterproof camera bag could not meet your expectations. Information copied from product company.
I am leaning more toward the Lowepro Passport because it offers more space and its expandable. I can carry a few additional personal items which is important to me since I tend to use my current camera backpack as a purse to hold my cell, keys, and sunglass, which is a must have feature for me.
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Amazon subscription gift ideas for her birthday, anniversary, or Valentines just around the corner. The perfect idea for gift giving all year around.
This post may contain affiliate links. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. See disclosure
This post may contain affiliate links. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. See disclosure
Where to display my photos is always a struggle. Which platform to use, which one is the easies but yet within my price point. SmugMug has been around for quite some years and has proven to be a platform for the hobbyist to the pro photographer. I have decided to take advantage of SmugMug 14 day trial offer and so far on day 2. I absolutely love it! It’s easy to use and if you want to offer your photos for purchase you can but after the 14 day trial, you would need to select the appropriate plan if I wanted to keep that option. Check out my homepage below. I will update the post after my 14 day trial and let you know what I decided regarding keeping SmugMug as my platform. But so far I am very excited, especially with the Power plan which turns off the right click option on your photos!
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I recieved a lot of compliments on my tan floppy hat while on our mini vacation to the South Padre Island.
Love this hat! The hat travels well. No need to worry about losing its shape when you place it into your suitcase. I am able to fold it into my suitcase and the hat will keep its shape when you are ready to wear it.
The wide brim provides great shade.
Loving my floppy hatEnjoying our time at the South Padre Island Birding, Nature Center, and Alligator Sanctuary. Enjoying some beach time
I love floppy hats, I even have a red one specifically for wine festivals. But of course the tan has also attend a festival.
Enjoying the Manitou Springs Annual Wine Festival
I will be honest, I bought both hats from vendors at a craft booth. But I found a floppy hat very similar hat with great reviews on Amazon and offer in a variety of colors.
I hope you can find the perfect color floppy hat for those special occasion(s) or just to have wear while having fun in the sun.
I love, love thrift stores and wish I had more time to go more often. I love saving money, I love finding name brands for much less, and I love saving our world from the pollution of stuff. Here is a one of many great articles regarding how American is populating the world with clothing, this one is from NEWSWEEK. It’s a eye opener!
I do have to be honest here, my husband will not shop at a thrift store. He hates the fact I do. He states “we aren’t poor”! I am not shopping at a thrift store due to lack of money. I am shopping there because I can find some amazing stuff for dirt cheap and many times brand new! I do have a list of items I will not buy used: underclothing, swimming suits, worn shoes, socks, panty hose, and I am sure a may have left something out. But most anything regarding personal use.
Heading out on a small trip and wanted a couple of different clothing pieces. I head out to my local thrift store and for under $25, I found the following: American Eagle jeans $10, Old Navy blouse $3, Gap acid washed $2, Loft black pants $2 and brand new pair with tags Epic Step Shoes $6.
It’s a lucky day when I can find pants which fit my short stature and this day I found two!
Upfront honest, I am not a fashionista !!!!! I just like what I see and wear it!
My thrift store finds!
Sharing some super cute photo gifts at Photobarn:
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This post may contain affiliate links. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. See disclosure
Back in 2009, I decided I needed to lose weight. Not 100% due to vanity but about 90% due to fear of dying and 10% vanity. Let’s face it anyone who says they aren’t doing it for vanity is probably not 100% be honest. I have a family history of diabetes and heart disease which I 100% believe it was due to our family history of obesity. I get there are family genetic but the other common connection was obesity. With my dad having his first heart attack in his very early 50’s and as I approached 48, I knew deep down I needed to get healthy. Moving forward into 2010, I would say I was at my prime, lost a significant amount of weight and in the best physical shape. But someone forgot to tell me how hard maintaining a healthy weight is so hard!!
I struggle daily to not revert back my previous weight on the right hand in the pictures below. Obesity is a chronic disease, WAIT!!! WHAT??!! There is a lot of controversy around if obesity should or shouldn’t be classified as a disease. I am not here to support either side or give you my personal view. I am here to tell you that it’s hard! Being obese is hard, weight loss hard and maintaining is even harder!
Mid 2017, suddenly everything I did to maintain my weight loss stopped working! How can I work out 4 to 5 times a week and gain weight? How can I train for two half marathons and gain weight? How can I only eat 1200 calories and gain weight? How can I only eat more calories as instructed and gain weight? What the heck is going on here! Before I knew it, I had packed on 20 pounds. I was in tears. I was devastated. I worked so hard to not head in this direction. I didn’t overeat, I worked out religiously, I did everything right!!!
I had to reflect on what was happening during this time – Sold our home, signed a contract on a new home build, lost my dad, moved in with family for 6 months and then moved into our new home. Managing keeping the kids in their current schools which meant, commuting them to their old schools for 2 additional months. Lets add your typical family stress of raising a family, having a career, being a wife and friend, and whatever life came my way. Oh and how can I forget, dealing with some hormonal issues and the treatment was additional hormones.
Although, I was doing everything right, everything was going to so wrong with my weight. I had to focus more on my diet and make adjustments accordingly. I had to figure out how to manage my stress. Even though I had everything together and managing my stressful life, my body and mind was paying the price.
As I practice in managing my stress level, focusing on whole foods and HITT training, yoga, and practicing mindfulness. I love practicing Nidra and restorative yoga. Due to the hustle and bustle of life, attending a formal class is difficult but I found some great resources online. Slowly I am adding mindfulness into my daily routine. Slowly, the weight is coming back off. And when I say slow, I mean SSSLLLLLOOOOWWW!!!! I guess as one approaches their late 40’s, hormones is another battle to the fight against obesity.
For me managing obesity is about how I manage stress, getting enough sleep, and of course continue with healthy eating and exercise.
I am not perfect, I have failed many times, but I have to continue to focus on the “WHY” and the “WHAT”.
Why am I doing this? – To reduce my chances of a heart attack or diabetes.
Why should I care? – Because it’s prevalent in my family history. I am out to change history
What do I get out of it? – I feel better. I can climb mountains and uphill with a 30 pound pack. I can snowshoe. I can run.
What must I do daily to maintain? – Reduce stress, practice mindfulness, eat healthy, drink water, exercise, and most importantly have people in your life who support you and lift you up, no matter your weight.
Please realize all this above is balanced with still enjoying good food, wine, and gourmet cheese but on occasion 🙂 Since I haven’t figured out how to drink more wine and lose weight.
Just remember, this is your journey and I can promise you will stumble but you must be ready with a plan on getting back up, reevaluate what is going on and make changes accordingly.
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Someone who works in healthcare, I find it very interesting to sit back and watch as a patient or visitor. I have gathered a few events as a patient or visitor during a few emergency room visits over the years
1. Walking into the waiting room to see a full waiting room. You know its going to be a long evening
2.Asking your daughter if she farted multiple times because you keep smelling poop .
3. The care plan board has my daughter misidentified as her name isn’t Jerry.
Next time bring my own expo markers to change the board. But thank goodness no one is looking at the useless board on the wall anyways.
4. Finding expired items in the room because you have spent way to much time in the room. Eek!!! And no I wasn’t in the drawers, these are items on the hanging on the wall.
Let me tell you staff aren’t very happy when you point it out but you are pointing it out to be kind and helpful.
5. Hearing a kid or baby screaming or crying and making you want to cry
6. Having fun with the bed once the controller is discovered
7. Hear screaming and then hearing staff telling them to just relax. You wonder what is going on and your imagination gets carried away
8. Your friend running away or dancing in the hallway in their gown. Or better yet, having a friend on a hold and watching them run down the hallway in their gown while on guard watch. Uh, guard where is my friend?
9. Kids touching everything, crawling on the floor or licking objects. Every parents nightmare.
10. Someone upset that they are still waiting and at the triage desk asking for the 100th time when will they be next.
11. Discharged and ready to head home, I want food!!!
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Finally had sometime to play with my EasyPress Mini. Absolutely love it!! Heating was perfect and the size was great for this baseball cap project. Used my Cricut Maker to using Cricut glitter vinyl and Jolee’s Printable Transfer Sheets.
As I search how to include more Yoga in my life for 2020, I found Yoga Download. Click below to take you to their website and check them out. T
This post may contain affiliate links. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. See disclosure
This post may contain affiliate links. As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. See disclosure
This project was inspired by a Facebook post regarding the saga of the lost laundry sock.
I started with a DIY board I found at Hobby Lobby using their 40% off coupon. I used baby wipe and Craft Smart white acrylic paint and did a light white wash staining to the wood.
Allowed the board to dry for about 30 minutes since the white wash is very light and enough to blend the white into the wood to give it a whitewashed finish.
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Taco addict here! My birthday is approaching in a few months and I was curious on what Amazon had to offer for gift ideas for a fellow taco addict. I wanted to share my top 10 finds with you!
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I absolutely love pink and I have selected my top Amazon pink picks
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Learning how to only focus on things I care about. Stop pleasing everyone else and rid myself of unwanted obligations. Learning to not feel ashamed or guilty when I say NO! And only give my f#$ks to the things I care about. And let’s face it, I need some brutal lessons on how to stop self-sabotage and screwing my future self.
1. Live freely by saying No!
2. Learn to not feel guilty when saying No!
3. Be more conservative of my F#$K Bucks.
4. Stop doing the things I don’t want to do and stop worrying
5. Getting my sh#$ together by being brutally honest with myself
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My amazing hubby bought me the Royal Craft bathtub caddy which I had my eye on for about a year now. Excited and ready to relax after an adventurous snowshoeing trip. I absolutely love this cabby! There a place for a glass of wine, cell phone, book or table, and other slots for lotions or soap. Everything within reach while you relax and take a moment for some self care. Great gift for yourself, mom, wife, girlfriend, etc. Amazon offers a variety of styles by Royal Craft to fit every need.
Expandable to fit across your tubI know this isn’t wine! But a Mike’s Hard Mango workedPlace of your cup of tea or glass and a slot for your cell phone. Also plenty of space to hold your lotions and soaps
By no means do I proclaim myself as a wine connoisseur nor do I fit the definition of one.
1. A person with expert knowledge or training, especially in the fine arts.2. A person of informed and discriminating taste:a connoisseur of fine wines
Craft Beer and Wine Festival – I haven’t seen a 2020 date set. Looking at past dates they tend to have their festival in September, recommend to check back on their website. I highly recommend the VIP tickets. The event proceeds go towards the Marc Jr Foundation (click here to learn about their mission)
The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey – Harvest Fest – Date set for the weekend of September 26th – Go early and find a spot on the lawn for some good music and bring a picnic, cheese, and enjoy the variety of Holy Cross Abbey wines you can taste or purchase.
Wine festivals on my 2020 list I would like to attend
Goal #3 Solve How to Drink More Wine and Maintain weight
Who are you kidding – Let’s move on!
My only advice is stick to Processco or low carb champagnes. I also reference the Keto Wine: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Low Carb Wines even though I am not Keto but for me it’s provides a comprehensive low carb wine guide.
Goal #4 Ship Two Friends Wine
I received my first shipment last month from a dear friend. It was exciting to see what came in and the selection they chose! A reminder, someone 21 years of age with an ID must be home to sign for the delivery. So plan accordingly with your friend or have the package delivered to the delivery service (FedEx, UPS) pick-up location.
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Amazing husband not only surprised me with one Cricut EasyPress but with two Cricut EasyPress!! First, is the mini but mighty Cricut mini Press and the Cricut EasyPress2 9×9. He bought me the Cricut 12×12 tote to fit both the mini and 9X9 press into one tote for easy storage.
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First attempt at glass Etching and making wine charms with Shrinky Dinks.
Stencil – Either buy or make your own with Cricut, this one I made with a free SVG found on Love SVG. Remember to convert to stencil and wedding is backwards! Don’t wed as normal, which is what I did the first time.
Since I cut with Cricut you will need the transfer tape take transfer your stencil on the wine glass. Make sure there isn’t gaps as the etching cream will bleed into and etch areas of the glass you aren’t wanting etched. Following Etch cream as directed on bottle or their website.
I found these cute saying and free SVGs from Love SVG – I generally like to design my own designs but I was short on time and these were perfect! Cricut has the ability to print and then cut your design which is what I did here. Punch at hole but not to close to the top as these shrink and so does the hole punch. I also did double punch to enlarge the size of the hole. Place the printed Shrinky Dink in the oven, follow the instructions on the Shrinky Dink package. Pulled them from the oven, allowed them to cool and then applied the Mod Podge Dimensional Magic, two coats. Do not place Mod Podge over the hole punch otherwise it will harden. Once dried, place the jump rings and place beads on the Charm ring earring hoop and close! Done. I did forget to punch holes on one set of my wine charms and my husband had to help me drill a hole, a mistake I won’t repeat again!
I wanted to share my favorite yoga gift ideas from Amazon. I do love yoga and wish I could do it more, maybe as we approach 2020, this can be a new goal!
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1 – Ewedoos Yoga Mat Bag with Large Size Pocket and Zipper Pocket, Fit Most Size Mats. I think this bag is super cute to carry your yoga mat and water bottle.2. Gaiam Yoga Mat Premium Print Reversible Extra Thick Exercise & Fitness Mat for All Types of Yoga, Pilates & Floor Exercises – Offered in a variety of colors3. ASUTRA Natural & Organic Yoga Mat Cleaner (Peaceful Lavender Aroma), 4 fl oz | Safe for All Mats & No Slippery Residue | Cleans, Restores, Refreshes | Comes w/ Microfiber Cleaning Towel4. ELENTURE Full-Zip Exercise Yoga Mat Carry Bag with Multi-Functional Storage Pockets – Offered in a variety of colors5. Sivan Health and Fitness Yoga Set 6-Piece– Includes 1/2″ Ultra Thick NBR Exercise Mat, 2 Yoga Blocks, 1 Yoga Mat Towel, 1 Yoga Hand Towel and a Yoga Strap
Great gift bundle idea! Also offered in a varitey of colors 6. EYE PILLOW LAVENDER + Flax Seed Filled + Carry Bag. Silk Fabric – Use for Yoga, Natural Sleep Aid, Stress Relief, Anxiety Relief, Meditation, Massage Great Relaxation Gift
I love the smell of lavender and this would be a great self care gift.
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I will never forget the day when my dad was given an expiration date. We didn’t know how long we had, we were told 6 month to 5 years. At the very moment, I realize we were on a journey, which I call “the gift of time”. Every moment I had with my dad, was a gift. Time with spent with anyone you love is a gift but I think it becomes more apparent when someone is ill and given a prognosis. I spent as much time with my dad as I could.
I managed all my dads health care and would be at his side when he health would decline. We would make the 2 1/2 hour drive to go pick up him and drive him back to Denver. I wanted to ensure he received the best care and tended by the best doctors picked to care for my dad. He would go home and life would go back to normal. But as time went on you can tell he was declining and I knew in my heart time was running out and so did he.
I remember him grabbing my hand while were sitting one the couch about a month before he passed away and asking me to please take care of my mom when he is gone. He worried so much about my mom. I think my dad feared death because he feared leaving my mom alone. On his last medical trip to Denver, I think my dad knew he wouldn’t return home. I remember dad telling my husband, I don’t think I am going to make it back home this time; I am going to die here in Denver. He was right, he knew, because with a few days we were presented with the fact my dads worsening condition qualified him to began hospice. My dad’s 5 days in home hospice, he body was exhausted and he couldn’t fight anymore.
The beautiful thing about doing home hospice is being able to care for your loved one during those last moments of time. Dad went to my brother’s home for his last days here on earth. Home hospice allowed us to care for our dad during his final days, we had sleepless nights and the 24 hour case was exhausting but I would do again.
Personally, home hospice was a gift for me, to continue to care for my dad and tend to his needs. It gave me time to sit to in silence and hold his hand while everyone else was sleeping. As a nurse, caring for others is a gift but it’s a greater gift when it’s your own loved one. Dad finally was relieved of all his pain and left the earth on August 28th, 2017. I know my dad went to heaven and I hope he can hear me when I say, I miss you dad.
For the holidays, I know my siblings are all struggling with dad’s passing. I know for me, its a sudden emotion of anger or sadness. I have to take a moment to determine what is this feeling and what is triggering it, then I remember it’s called grief. Grief, hits you like a wave, it can come in big or small and sometimes it can just knock the breath out of you. From my understanding, you never get over grief but eventually learn to live without that person. I have no clue, this is new to me and all I can say is that it sucks!
I decided as a gift this year is to give something with dad. I recently seen these gorgeous memory lanterns on Pinterest and thought this would be a great gift. I started out with purchasing 12 inch lanterns, small doll house chairs, doll house size Christmas tree, Cricut permanent black vinyl, E6000 glue, tea lights, picture of my dad, and white felt to place on the bottom on the inside of the lantern. In Cricut Design Space, I typed the poem “Christmas in Heaven, What Do they Do? They all Come to Earth, to Spend it with You. So Save them a Place and one Empty Chair. You may not see them, but they will be there.” on the black vinyl. Inserted the picture into the back, glued the felt down, then chair and Christmas tree, placed the black vinyl lettering on the front, inserted the candle and voila, it was complete. If you go onto Pinterest and use the search words “memorial lantern DIY”, you can find many ideas regarding memorial lanterns and you can even find some great ideas not related to Christmas.
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I absolutely love sweets and wanted to try to make mini Bundt cakes. Outside of crafting, I also love to bake and cook. Now who doesn’t love Pinterest! Pinterest is my go to place for recipes and craft ideas.
I was craving something sweet but with a hint of sour, so I began to search for a lemon frosting for my mini Bundt cake idea. I think I found the most amazing and go to lemon frost recipe. I came across a recipe called The Best Lemon Buttercream Frosting from Two Sisters Crafting. This recipe has just the right amount of lemon. It’s not to lemony and I was able to frost my mini lemon Bundt cakes with the lemon frosting. It was perfect and everyone loved them!
I had purchased a set of 12 cup mini Bundt cake pans a few months back and I was armed with a lemon pound cake recipe. I absolutely love Grandbaby Cakes Lemon Pound Cake (Ultimate Lemon Cake Recipe), it’s one of the best lemon pound cakes I have ever made and I always receive compliments when I make this amazing cake for events. Be super careful when filling your pan, as the batter does rise quite a bit and will spill over in the mini pan. My first batch was a bit of a disaster, as the batter spilled over. My next batch I only filled about half way full or maybe even a little less.
Since I am by no means a master baker or cook, I often find lessons learned during my first time experiences. Outside of probably selecting a different recipe, although how can I when Grandbaby Cakes recipe is AMAZING!!!! I believe a 6 cup Bundtlette cake pan would be a better type of pan for mini Bundt cakes but the 12 cup mini Bundt cake pan worked out well.
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I absolutely love my hairstylist and I know she has a great sense of humor. Since the holidays are right around the corner and I wanted to take a gift to her at my last hair appointment. My life is crazy and getting a haircut every 8 weeks can be a struggle. My amazing husband surprised me with a Cricut Maker a couple of weeks ago and this was an opportunity to use my brand new crafting toy! Voila……this is my creation! Can I say, so far I absolutely love Cricut Design Space (DS). The DS offers many options to design a project. My next goal is to learn to workout outside of DS and determine how to create my own designs but in the meanwhile, I am absolutely loving DS. The DS allows you to share your designs on either Facebook or Pinterest, so I have added the cup to Pinterest. Click on the Pinterest hyperlink below and let me know if this allows you to obtain the file to design the cup. Since I designed the cup within DS and it’s not considered a finish product, from my understanding of the Angel Policy, I can’t publish as a SVG. I have received a lot of comments regarding the design and I wanted to figure out how to share. Please comment below and let me know.
The 
Sunny Snowy Laptop Tote
Champagne Confetti Fashion Pink Glitter Tapered Zinc Wine Accessory Set of 3
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Chicken Scard 
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