tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1925520806540858982024-03-12T19:55:53.663-07:00bee littlequeen blogfamily. faith. shopping. bargains. crafts. friends. reviews.Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.comBlogger291125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-89891681977611668942015-04-22T21:11:00.000-07:002015-04-22T21:46:14.422-07:00Bladder leakage at 32?! Yes. Ashamed? No, but I got help with Depend. + FREE sample! <i>Thank you to Depend for sponsoring today’s post about the <a href="https://ooh.li/975eb7d" target="_blank">#underwareness</a> movement. I am simply posting this disclosure in accordance with FTC guidelines<a href="http://www.ftc.gov/sites/default/files/attachments/press-releases/ftc-staff-revises-online-advertising-disclosure-guidelines/130312dotcomdisclosures.pdf"></a>. If you would like more info on the said guidelines, please leave a comment below and I'll happily re-direct you to more info! As always, all thoughts and opinions in sponsored posts where I either receive either free product or payment, are honest and my own!</i><br />
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To be honest, I have felt embarrassed when I've experienced <a href="https://ooh.li/975eb7d" target="_blank">bladder leakage</a>. Now when I look back, I can see that I started having moments of leakage when I was a child. I don't think I've talked much about my childhood here on the blog, but I used to walk until I was 11 years old. I was born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy and unfortunately, my disease is progressive BUT it's a slow progression thankfully. When I did walk, I literally walked like a penguin; side to side, and slowly. I was bullied as a child. I was made fun of for walking like that and because of my weight, which has fluctuated all my life, mostly due to medication I need to be.<br />
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I remember raising my hand in class to ask for the pass to go potty. Walking as best as I could down the halls to the restroom, I would start to pee. Sometimes, I would need to go to the nurses' office to get a change of clothes, which ended up mismatching my top! I felt so left out. I couldn't be cool like the other kids!<br />
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<a href="https://ooh.li/975eb7d" target="_blank"><img alt="https://ooh.li/975eb7d" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnKTcWkLUdBMT8ProXpOL2QaOkE-kUKY0LaOKMMx7ANK1jtdjyt4-QAvjw9CaU0vDHUFJs1KNVdFChBCqJ-ETEYd_IlU-SR9gwquJ30-HgalE17O0tkcWPG_yU0-I3CbCbRwFR8yS6hkQ/s1600/photo+2(34).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a><a href="https://ooh.li/975eb7d" target="_blank"><img alt="https://ooh.li/975eb7d" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSlXda7FD-CWsoQlX9Zlc0cROTVupxS2M2YmC2cfCq518LrHkQ7hcYwhx4wUVs9EfUm5flh4CSFGFSGiq4LwWteNBJ1hfVkosLgdb5CchtizQ4-xrp4TTXFrexkgwizVIHW7pmvRYmUA/s1600/photo+2(30).JPG" height="315" width="400" /></a></div>
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Well, now as an adult, I no longer have to feel that way because Depend has created <a href="https://ooh.li/975eb7d" target="_blank">Silhouette Active Briefs</a> that are a new moderate-absorbency brief that feature a thin design for complete
comfort with the trusted protection of the <a href="https://ooh.li/975eb7d" target="_blank">Depend</a>
brand and a lower
rise+ for an underwear-like look, fit and feel! I recently purchased
them and as a category first, the
product is available in black and beige colors. The black isn't super black, but close enough! I think it's great to have
an option of which color to wear when planning outfits! Hey, I am all
about fashion over here! The trial pack I bought came with two briefs, some cleansing wipes and a four dollar off coupon!<br />
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It's true. <a href="https://ooh.li/975eb7d" target="_blank">Depend has made the Silhouette Active Briefs</a> to look like underwear. They are soft. and they fit like underwear. I love that they feature a lower rise because I have a short torso and the distance between my belly button and my crotch is short and I just don't want any undergarments to sit near my boobies! haha. The sides have stretch to them and no pesky, scratchy tag on the back!<br />
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I had no idea, but there are more people with bladder leakage are in
their 20’s than their 80’s. The average age of someone with bladder
leakage is only 52! Also, more people with bladder leakage are 50 or
younger than 60 or older! I am in that category at 32!<br />
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With these briefs, people can go about their lives without the shame or worry of bladder leakage. Depend has made a great brief for <a href="https://ooh.li/975eb7d" target="_blank">bladder leakage protection</a>! I absolutely cringe at the thought of having to wear a diaper. Even my neurologist has told me that eventfully my bladder muscles will weaken to where I won't be able to control my bladder. Having to wear a diaper deeply saddened me. I promise I'm not THAT vain, but c'mon, what younger person wants that?! I am not trying to discriminate on age either. I am sure older people don't want to wear a bulky squeeky diaper either. As I write this, I recognize the social stigma attached to such events of bladder leakage.<br />
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It makes me so happy about Depend's #underwareness movement highlighting their Silhouette Active Briefs to support women who have bladder leakage. I am relieved and thankful too, for when the time comes that I am unable to control my bladder, I'd willingly and more happily accept wearing their briefs versus an adult diaper! I know I'll feel like I can keep my dignity and still feel comfortable and confident living my active lifestyle! Britt is always on the go!<br />
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If you experience bladder leakage or know someone that does (which I am sure you do!), please check out <a href="https://ooh.li/975eb7d">www.underwareness.com</a> to know more about the #underwareness campaign, support the cause and request FREE samples of Silhouette Active Fit! Yay!<br />
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Also, if you're into social media, you can help Depend as they go into their second year of their #undewareness campagin by every photo and video shared using <a href="https://ooh.li/975eb7d" target="_blank">#Underwareness</a> and featuring
Depend products, the Depend brand will donate $1, up to $3 million,
through 2016 to fund charities that advance the research and education
of bladder leakage. Now, how awesome is that! Bladder leakage is real. "The struggle is real." but the shame and stigma of bladder leakage doesn't have to be anymore.<br />
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Thank you for reading and feel free to share your story or struggles with bladder leakage with me. I'd be interested to hear how it has or is affecting you or what you do about it. We can come together as a community by sharing our common struggles and joys and funny ways we cover up and by doing this, we strengthen and lift one another up! Amen!<br />
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<a href="http://www.linqia.com/"><img src="http://linqia.ooh.li/disclosure/205333514.png" /></a>Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-91157819335110943602015-02-05T15:49:00.000-07:002015-02-05T15:49:43.082-07:00weekend update + life update <i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Written January 6th. There's alot more to get caught up on, but let's start here.</span></i><br />
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As of three weeks ago,I was wrapping almost non-stop preparing for Christmas. A corner of my room was piled crazy high with gifts! I also got to visit with my mom and aunt v. We had Rubio's for lunch. Mmm! We laughed so much talking about my grandparents and about upcoming Christmas plans. At least three days a week the past 2 weeks my room has been so messy with all wrapping materials out, shreds of Christmas wrap scrapped on the floor and price tags or tape adhered to my hands or clothes! I love it though. <br />
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Christmas was so great; I was so happy to spend it with my family.<br />
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I've been feeling
a little better since a month ago (been sick since September
for those who didn't know)...major respiratory problems. Had a picc line
placed on October 9th to receive IV antibiotics. Went through two
separate rounds for two different bacterias in lungs/trachea. I am still not
feeling 100% better (phlegm still thick and green, gross, I know) and needing suction
more than my normal, but I am thankful to have some energy back and
actually do things outside of the house. It can get depressing being
cooped up inside everyday all day. I now feel a cold a brewin'.<br />
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I went to my ward's Christmas at the beginning of December.We had a greek dinner, watched a short video on the birth and life of Christ, sang Christmas songs and socialized, socialized! Of course you know I took some photos with some of my favorite people! That was my first time doing something fun with many friends in three months!<br />
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I am still experiencing
pain everyday. My back and arms especially have been the worst (the left
leg has gotten some relief). I am still on pain medication. Met with a pain
specialist a few weeks ago and he suggests I take a longer acting medicine and
keep current pain med for breakthrough pain. It's been a mess and now just waiting for my primary dr (who is back on my team) to write the script for the new med...which might not be til January 30th.<br />
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I didn't send out cards this year (handmade or sending a bunch out). I narrowed my list from around 60 down to about 30. Extra special exceptions! :)<br />
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Talk soon!Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-7209447821642991142014-12-15T17:03:00.000-07:002014-12-18T12:20:13.959-07:00Live On. Give On. + $100 giftcard giveaway for charity!<i>Special thanks to Medtronic for sponsoring today's post and encouraging me to live on and give on.</i><br />
<i>All thoughts expressed are honest and my own.</i><br />
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I am so excited to be a part in sharing about the Bakken Invitation sponsored by Medtronic! When I first heard about this, I felt a great connection, since one: I have overcome or am still overcoming physical and health obstacles, so I definitely felt like I could really relate to this year's Honorees, especially Joan Talkowsky of Tel-Aviv, Israel.<br />
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Before we talk more about Joan, let me share what the Bakken Invitation is. This award is given to ten people from all over the world who have overcome major health problems with the help of medical technology and who <u>choose</u> to help their communities despite the challenges they face. Wow, right?! It leaves me in awe how they might be feeling pain, depression or fatigue, but still make time and push themselves to not let their health issues come in the way of them giving back to their communities and living on with pure intent, happiness and a great sense of self. I should also note how each honoree not only gets to share their story but they also receive a $20,000 grant toward their volunteer efforts!! Amazing! All ten of this year's honorees are truly wonderful people who <a href="http://ooh.li/5dea872" target="_blank">live on and give on</a>. I love all of their words of wisdom of helping and leading positive lives!<br />
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Joan used to give her time at a hospital in New Jersey, helping "boarder babies"; babies who were born with drugs in their system. Soon after, she started feeling exhausted and out of breathe. Come to find out, she need a pacemaker asap! Since having that placed, she moved back to Israel where she volunteers her time translating for Physicians for Human Rights-Israel, which assists poor populations in Israel. She lives by the deep meaning phrase, "Tikkun olam", which in the Jewish religion means "repairing the world."<br />
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I am really inspired by Joan and her efforts. I love how she helps to repair the world, even after going through a hard time in her life that could have been fatal, but thanks to receiving a pacemaker, she proves that to, "take one little step out of your immediate circle," can be so fulfilling and life changing. Not only for herself but for the ones receiving help.<br />
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I also LOVE giving back when I can and I am grateful to be ABLE to help in the ways that I can.<br />
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I don't want to hear excuses from anyone about not helping others, their communities (no matter how great or terrible you think where you live is), or even your family or friends. YOU have the power to act. You have the power to help. <br />
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Here are five suggestions that you could give back and I definitely want to help more when it comes to tip number four! (new year's resolution, anyone?)<br />
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<b>1//Give of yourself. </b><br />
It can be as simple as sharing a smile with the grocery store clerk, or paying it forward at a Wendy's drive-thru. While at the grocery store and you see a parent juggling items in their hands and they drop something, go pick it up! No act of service, of giving yourself, is too small. I know it sounds so cliche that you can make a difference. That you may feel that what you can do, what you can give doesn't seem like enough...but you're wrong! It is enough. You are enough. You are amazing, wherever you're sitting or standing reading this very blog post, you are destined for greatness.<br />
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Sometimes I believe the lie that I am insignificant or that because of my limited abilities, I can't help that much. Yes, I may not be able to help in the ways I desire, but that doesn't stop me from helping in a way I CAN. And those ways I can are more than enough. It brings me great pleasure to know (sometimes much later, sometimes never) that I made someone else's life easier, better or happier. You can't tell me you haven't felt that pure peace and joy before? And if you can't, then get on it because I promise your heart will have the warm fuzzies and you'll be smiling!<br />
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<b>2//Rescue an animal from a shelter. </b><br />
Often times, I see some friends on my facebook page rave about their new dog or puppy they bought from a pet store. Blah! Please! A little research goes a long way. Rescuing a precious pup or cat you can cozy up with not only saves their life but also brings joy and warmth and probably laughter to your home! Here in the valley of Arizona where I live, the no-kill shelters/rescues as well as the humane society are almost always filled to capacity. In order to reduce their numbers (not talking euthanizing) and help make more room for more abandoned or found pets, people need to adopt, adopt, adopt! By purchasing dogs from most pet stores, people are supporting puppy mills, where mama dogs and their babies are subject to <u><i>terrible</i></u> treatment and living conditions! Unimaginable!<br />
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<b>3//Use your talents for good.</b><br />
This past June, I got involved with the Southern California Bulldog Rescue via social media and helped raised money for their rescue! How I did that was I handmade greeting cards which were up for the online auction. I made the cards using scrapbook supplies and my creative mind! All monies pledged went directly to the rescue to help pay for medical costs, food or supplies (like a bed or collar) for the super cute bulldogs. I had never done something like that before and it made me feel so good to be able to contribute to a cause so dear to my heart: animal rescue! (if you couldn't tell by now haha). <br />
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<b>4// Get involved in your community.</b><br />
There are plenty of places where you could volunteer. A place where you fit right in. If you love babies, you could volunteer, like Joan, at a hospital. Maybe the homeless are near to your heart? You could organize a blanket drive or assemble ziplock bags of necessities which could include (a bar of soap, baby wipes, toothbrush/toothpaste, a couple granola bars, and tissue). I've been wanting to do that last idea!<br />
<img src="http://ooh.li/53a8211" nbsp="" /><br />
<b>5//Be a good neighbor or friend.</b><br />
Have you ever noticed your neighbors? Or know of elderly people at your church? I bet you some might struggle with doing their yard work, finding transportation to a doctor's appointment, even going grocery shopping or needing a babysitter. By becoming aware of who lives next you or sits next to you at church, you have the opportunity to lend a helping hand. Just think of how relieving your help can be to those who need, who if it weren't for you, they'd be stuck in a bind!<br />
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What inspires you to give back? Go on and tell me how YOU will go on out and serve your community with the $100 prepaid Visa giftcard that Medtronic has provided! Your comment will serve as your entry for this giveaway.<br />
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*Giveaway ends on Decemeber 30, 2014.<br />
Must be 18 years old to enter.<br />
U.S. Residents only please. <br />
One winner will be randomly selected.<br />
Medtronic is responsible for prize fulfillment. <br />
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="060a8bc712" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/060a8bc712/" id="rcwidget_emb2mqkf" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>
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<img src="http://ooh.li/53a8211" nbsp="" />Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-30021485457382893732014-09-15T16:10:00.001-07:002014-09-15T16:10:05.939-07:00mani mondayYou've probably heard me say that I don't have my nails polished very frequently. To have my nails polished depends on my mood and maybe any special events that are going on.<br />
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Honestly, I go to a nail salon and treat myself to a manicure maybe 3 times a year. It is always nice to have your nails done. Because of the fact that my nail polish chips within the first two days of having them done (whether at the salon or done by myself), makes me think is this whole affair even worth it?! haha not so much really. That's not high on my list of priorities.<br />
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Now, when it comes to my toes, I <b>HAVE </b>to have them done every 4-6 weeks, in which case they always are done at home because I cannot transfer out of my wheelchair to those chairs at the salon.<br />
I'm still happy with that though.<br />
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It seems I've set a record because my fingernails have been rockin' color twice within one month! whhaaaaa?!<br />
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Current manicure is brought to you by... Essie's St. Lucia Lilac! <br />
I love that it's a demure lilac. It almost looks like it has a little grey in it, which gets me excited about Fall coming up! Autumn time is my most favorite time of the year!! (you will hear me say this more in the near future!) :) <br />
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This is the first time I used this color. It was actually part of a duo set that came with a cream shade, but I am not sure what I did with that one! Seeing this lilac color on my nails makes me smile.<br />
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Do you do your own nails? What color are your nails currently? <br />
<br />Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-36220103001458603422014-09-09T20:20:00.001-07:002014-09-15T16:12:48.455-07:00Boost your confidence with U by Kotex! I was talking with a friend today about how I've struggled feeling confident lately, especially in the last few months. As my pain has increased, it's been leaving me feeling like a rag doll with insomnia + fatigue! I think anyone, especially women, struggle with feeling confident when they are dealing with any personal issues that include health, relationships, career, and life in general. Feeling like they just don't measure up. I KNOW that comparison is a killer of joy, yet I allow myself to wade in the dangerous current of the comparing game.<br />
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Feeling confident is a challenge especially too when you have your monthly period, or if you're like me, you never know when it's going to come for a visit! Since I was 12, my period has always been irregular. never a nice and neat pattern but more of a messy, pop up menace! I am so thankful that feminine hygiene care has advanced like <a href="http://ooh.li/918d641" target="_blank">U by Kotex's pads</a> that feature a <a href="http://ooh.li/918d641" target="_blank">3D caption core</a>. This technology helps lock in wetness so you can feel relieved that you won't have a mess on your hands, err, underpants.<br />
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I love that I can count on <a href="http://ooh.li/918d641" target="_blank">U by Kotex</a> to provide me an option of better protecting my undies, but also allowing me to worry about <i>one less thing </i>in my crazy but beautiful life! I think alot of us deal with some of the same daily stresses or thoughts of life: bills, making plans, the future, finances, family, friends, what to eat for lunch or dinner, church responsibilities and shopping for necessities to name a few.<br />
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So you want to know a few of my secrets on feeling better about myself?<br />
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1// <b>Choose a cute or nice outfit that you love</b>. adding some earrings on AND putting makeup on will make you feel like a solid woman who
is ready to take on the world (well, your little world that is!) And if you don't wear makeup, no worries, maybe adding tinted lip balm fits your fancy? Instead of wearing pajamas or lounge clothes for four days in a row, I promise doing the above will hopefully help! Believe me, I love wearing those clothes, but dressing up a bit does wonders! Btw, no matter what day it is, I <u>ALWAYS</u> wear perfume. <br />
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2// <b>Drinking more ice cold water with freshly squeezed lime juice.</b> I know, it sounds so simple, right? Really, this beverage makes me feel better about what I am putting into my body plus, it tastes so refreshing! However, let me be honest and tell you that I still love + drink my Dr. Pepper! :)<br />
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3// <b>Be prepared.</b> I am definitely a planner and I plan most things in my life, not only because I like to but because I NEED to. Since becoming on the ventilator, ha, my entire life did a 180! I'll have to write a separate post to better explain why I need to plan now. Ok, so back to being prepared. This year I bought myself a nice cross-body purse from Forever 21 and it's amazing what I can pack into it. It literally can be a life saver. Some notable things I carry with me are wet ones hand wipes, aspirin (in case a stranger out in public might be having a heart attack!), lipgloss, because that is an essential!, my coupon envelope for a current shopping trip! No one better get in the way of me and my coupons, a<a href="http://ooh.li/918d641" target="_blank"> U by Kotex ultra thin pad</a> (in case one of my girl friends needs one while we are out having fun), a photo of the St. George Temple in Utah because it's so gorgeous and I feel protected, and sunscreen because I don't want to get burned or skin cancer and I don't want you to either! Do you sense a theme here? Being prepared makes me feel smarter, securer, and enables me to help others which makes my heart feel great.<br />
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Guess what? You can <a href="http://sassydove.com/feeling-confident-kotex-plus-free-sample/" target="_blank">click here</a> to get your own free sample (that include a coupon too!) of feminine products that best meet your needs like the <a href="http://ooh.li/918d641" target="_blank">U by Kotex pads</a> or tampons to help you #savetheundies! I hope you like them!<br />
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How do you boost yourself in the confident department? When do you feel the most confident?<br />
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<i>* A huge thank you to U by Kotex for sponsoring this post. However, all thoughts and opinions are honest and my own.</i><br />
<img src="http://ooh.li/7035a4d" nbsp="" />Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-10144766751590227622014-09-08T20:27:00.004-07:002014-09-08T20:27:28.679-07:00weekend re-cap*This post is <u><i>not</i></u> sponsored by Cafe Zupas, but if they were interested in sponsoring I'd be more than happy to work with them. <br />
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I firmly believe in order to appreciate the good you have to kinda know the bad. My little world hasn't been the brightest in months, most days blur into one another, but when I get to see my family or friends, my world is definitely brightened.<br />
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Friday, I took a nap and when I say nap, I mean 2-3 hours of broken nappy time. and it's in the middle of the day.<br />
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On Saturday, I got together with my friends for lunch at <a href="http://cafezupas.com/#locations-link" target="_blank">Cafe Zupas</a>. Omg, it's so delicious! There are a few other menu items that look appealing, but every time I get food from there, I get the same thing, a <a href="http://cafezupas.com/salads/roasted-red-pepper-asiago-caesar/" target="_blank">salad</a>, but not any plain ol salad but: the roasted red pepper + asiago chicken ceasar salad,<br />
because it's so dang good and I just want to eat it and I go with what I know, ya know? Cafe Zupas only has locations in Arizona, Utah + Nevada, sorry everyone else, but maybe they'll expand?<br />
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Our group, the BBB, aims to get together once a month or two and eat out at a different place each time we meet. We try to keep our group to no more than eight peeps at a time just to make it easier to sit together and to have a more quality experience. We have four core members (we had 5 but David got married and he + his wife, also our friend, moved to NYC), Jason + Scott (brothers), Diva Des and myself. We add new members that can rotate each time we meet so that different people can enjoy being a part of our get together as we cannot accommodate all at once.<br />
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So what does the BBB stand for? It means, Brioche Brunch Bunch. Say that three times fast. Jason and Scott came up with the name and founded the BBB, however, they made me president! haha. Apparently, Brioche is a type of bread and they came up with the name after eating some brioche french toast at Ihop back in January.<br />
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I loved getting the group together this past Saturday. It was way fun! New members for this round were Amanda, Kjerstin and Mister Mister. He took the best selfie ever and it was not an easy task to get our whole group in one shot. Our bishop and his wife showed up at Zupas too, so naturally we asked them to join our tables! It was meant to be. <br />
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Sunday, I didn't make it to church because I was so dang tired. Saturday was the fourth night in a row that I was not able to sleep well because of extreme back pain. I ended up taking another nap Sunday and woke up around 1:30pm. I really missed being at church and I definitely plan to be there next Sunday! I can't wait. One good thing about Sunday was that A: I did get rest, B: I got a pedicure at home and my toes are re-polished a tangerine color! oooh! <br />
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How was your weekend? Do anything fun?Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-89740143513588603592014-09-05T22:08:00.001-07:002014-09-05T22:08:11.770-07:00two lemonsYou know the <a href="http://beelittlequeen.blogspot.com/2014/08/weary.html" target="_blank">pain</a> <a href="http://beelittlequeen.blogspot.com/2014/08/weary.html" target="_blank"></a>I talked about last month, well life has been definitely handing me more lemons.<br />
A few weeks ago, I had an accident with my roommate and unfortunately, my left foot got badly sprained. With it being just over three weeks since the accident, my foot is only about 30% healed, which is obviously not as quick as my doctor or I would like, but it is feeling alot better than that first week!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ice + elevation, just what the doctor ordered!</td></tr>
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It was a Tuesday, just after 2 pm when the accident happened. I was in my doorway (in my wheelchair) and my roommate drove toward me and stopped, then proceeded to lean forward to hand me something. Well, somehow something hit her joystick box and her chair zoomed in toward my chair. Her chair kept going forward into my chair causing my footrest to bend up (close) which my feet were on and my left foot was bending backwards (also for those that don't know my ankles and feet on turned more on their side since I was a teenager but have turned more as I've gotten older)..so it's turned on its side and bending backward!! When I realized that the footplate was closing and my foot was getting crushed, I tried to drive my chair backwards back into my room, but my left wheel was stuck in the doorway, so I was trapped. When my roommate realized what was happening and that her chair was un-purposely driving into me, she got control of it and drove back away. This all happened so fast.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8.16, my feet have mild swelling already, but the left is def more!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
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I was hysterical! I was screaming, heaving, crying, wailing at the pain my foot was in. As I was in that state, it caught my attention that I wasn't breathing well, so I tried to concentrate on taking slow deep breaths, exhaling out the pain in ooOooOo's. My poor foot spasmed heavily on its own due to the trauma that just occurred. Both of my caregivers and also nurse on duty gathered at the scene. I drove back into my room and my nurse went and got me a bag of ice and then went to call my primary doctor. We put the ice on my foot, which said ice pretty much never left my foot until last week as it wasn't even helping anymore with the swelling. It's over three weeks later and my foot is STILL swollen and feeling numb at times. Within two hours I was getting an x-ray of my foot. The x-ray tech is an awesome one and he worked his portable machine around my injured foot. Thankfully, no bones were broken but my foot was definitely injured.<br />
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Since last tuesday, Ive been putting an Ace wrap bandage around my foot/ankle per my doctor's suggestion. My foot does feel better with that on for sure. I just gotta keep being more patient with that healing on top of my other parts of my body hurting. <span style="font-size: x-small;">Funny note, I had to take off my toe ring from the continue swelling. My toe tells me it feels naked.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">prepped for the MRI. three times a charm for pokes</td></tr>
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On August 25th, I went to the hospital to get an MRI of my back to figure out what may be causing the pain in my body. While there, my right arm got injured! I specualate that my arm fell down a bit off my chest from how the nurses placed my arms, and probably hit the machine as I was coming out of the tube. I was under general anesthesia because:<br />
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1. my body is severly contracted due to my disease<br />
2. the scan was over 2 hours and you have to be still the whole time plus I am slightly claustrophobic<br />
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My caregiver that was with me was not allowed in the room with me so she couldn't see if an accident happened. There was a small window in the door that she could see me through, but the angle that the machine was there was no way she could see me going in or out of the tube. As I was waking up from the anesthesia, my right arm and back were <u><b>KILLING me</b></u>! I was screaming and crying so much. Thankfully soon, one of the MRI techs came to help lift me from the flattened bed (no good)and placed me bac into my wheelchair. It took me like 15 minutes to open and stretch my arm to be able todrive my wheelchair! My overseeing nurse there thought that my arm was just really stiff from being in the same position for over two hours, but I knew it wasn't that. something was wrong. I just couldn't believe how much pain I wsa in. My caregiver asked if I could take my pain pills (that I had brought crushed in yogurt with me)...but I needed to wake up more from the anesthesia. I sure did and took them, but my pain was so bad that they didn't help much at all. My nurse said that if <i>I EVER</i> needed another MRI that we'd have to get a doctor's order to give me morphine in the "recovery" stage after the amount of pain she witnessed in me.<br />
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After calming down and being able to drive as best I could,we strolled over to the cafeteria for some food and drink. I hadn't been able to eat or drink anything since midnight the night before and I went in for my scan around 2pm. All I new was that i was:<br />
IN PAIN<br />
SO HUNGRY<br />
SO THIRSTY<br />
MY HEAD WAS POUNDING (but that was a side effect of the anesthesia)<br />
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Later, my caregiver noticed a bad bruise on my lower right arm at my elbow. That bruise is going away, but another bruise popped up on my right bicep (the area that deeply hurts) on sunday (8/31) while another one of my caregivers was bathing me. We thought maybe it showed up because the swelling went down a bit. I had an x-ray taken on tuesday (9/2) and no broken bones but there must be pulled muscle or torn tendon and the only way to check for that is a CT scan or MRI. Adter I found that out I was like HECK NO! I am NOT going through another MRI. Who knows, my arm could just be really sprained.<br />
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I thought by this weekend that I'd be able to do my makeup but that's not gonna happen. I have SUCH wonderful friends who will do my makeup for me, for special occasions like for church or a meet-up with friends and also who will pluck your eyebrows! <br />
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To give you an idea of how bad my arm is, here are some major things I cannot do yet: feed myself with my right arm ( i am right handed), cut tougher food, brush my teeth, wash my face, mail a letter (putting the red flag up), checking the mail, putting my breathing treatments on, or plugging my phone in to charge. This whole situation has brought to mind <a href="http://bethanyhamilton.com/about/" target="_blank">Bethany Hamilton</a>. I know my dilemma is NO where near her reality, but I am basically using one arm, my left, and it's a challenge indeed. Even I, who am disabled, took for granted the things I CAN or could do and I can't wait to get back my abilities!<br />
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By God's good grace and many sweet prayers from friends and family, I've been healing even if it's slowly. I can definitely move my arm a bit more (why I am finally able to blog a bit.)<br />
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I cannot wait for my follow-up appointment with my nuerologist about my MRI results. The appointment is not til September 29th! I am so bummed that it's still weeks away but that was the first available appointment. Honestly, it's gonna be a long month. I know because of the reasons. I've been praying so hard for relief from the pain I am in daily. I truly sympathize with those who may be going through something similar. pain is pain and everyone tolerates pain differently or more or less. I am definitely on the low tolerance side.<br />
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I can tell you that it's draining. This is a difficult period in my life. no doubt. My physical health is not well, but I am feeling encouraged and uplifted spiritually and I am so thankful for that. Without it, I'd be lost and in more distress.<br />
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<br />Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-21515711487460215502014-08-06T11:02:00.000-07:002014-08-06T11:02:19.258-07:00school supplies, you get me.<i>*this post is not sponsored. I just love certain stores for shopping for school supplies. All items mentioned were purchased on my own.</i><br />
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When July and August come around, you know what that means? School supply shopping!! I love the hunt for them. When there are sales and or coupons for school supplies, oh man, I am allllll over it!<br />
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As you can see, here's a small haul from Target a few weeks ago. This includes:<br />
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2 packs of 24 count Up and Up crayons-39cents each<br />
2 packs 100 count index cards (Up & Up)-50 cents each<br />
2 packs- 8 count mechanical pencils (Up &Up)-92 cents each (the following week the price went up)<br />
10 count sharpie markers -$6<br />
2count Up&Up glue sticks (not shown)-39cents each<br />
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Eight count <i>colorful</i> mechanical pencils for 92cents? Count me in! I got the index cards for 50cents. The following couple weeks, Walgreens had the same index card count for 29cents with their store coupon. Greeaaat. Grrr. I know. "Brittany, it's only a 21cent difference." But you guys, being able to get that item for cheaper is what it's about. It's part of the game! haha. <br />
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I am not in elementary or high school, but I am going back to school myself this fall! In October! Through ASU, online! I am SO excited! I registered for a class yesterday! yahoo! I am thrilled to be going back to school, to work toward my bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies, but I am NOT loving the $900 debt I will be in. I can already tell ASU that I need to enroll in a payment plan, that honestly, will take me months to complete. However, education is important and I will do my best. Because I've enrolled in school, you know I bought myself some school supplies too! <br />
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Ok, so back to school supplies. I am addicted. I can't help it. I can't help buying them when they are so cheap! It's the only time of the year that I justify stocking up on glue sticks (for my cardmaking), for spiral notebooks (for my letters + at 17cents each at Walmart when I went), for pens (cuz I write alot), for index cards (because i might need them), for highlighters + crayons + sharpies (because I love color). Do I really need these all, in excess? NO. But I do and will use them up. Also, I am the go-to-gal. And I like to be prepared for what I may need at any given time.<br />
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<i>" Britt, can I borrow some glue?</i><br />
<i>Britt, I need a pen, ok?</i><br />
<i>Britt, do you have any paper? "</i><br />
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Of course! Of course is my answer. I am more than happy to be able to help a friend or donate to the children. Yes, the children. Think of the children. And when I say children, I mean, my little friends here at my house. The sons & daughters of my caregivers. They know Britt has got the goods.<br />
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When I am Target or Walmart and see the school supplies section, my heart jumps out and my eyes pop out at all the amazing goodness that awaits at rock bottom prices. A one inch three ring binder for 69cents?! Why, Yes, thank you Walgreens!<br />
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Do you know how old books smell? I love that smell and I love the smell of new school supplies. It's intoxicating. Ok, now I sound like I have a problem, but I know I am not the only one! ;)Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-72796187106308641992014-08-05T16:33:00.000-07:002014-08-06T11:09:15.233-07:00weary.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My blog is like a body, and this body is skin & bones.<br />
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Time to get some meat on these bones! Yeh, yeh, you know I miss blogging. I really do.<br />
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I almost feel overwhelmed at where to start here. Ok, I <u><b>AM</b></u> overwhelmed on where to start because I have so much I want to catch you up on since June.<br />
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Let's start with <i>why</i> I haven't been blogging so much and what my life has been like this summer, especially the past few weeks.<br />
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Long story short, I am experiencing pain in my back, left arm and left leg. The pain started in April {actually at my grandpa Henry's funeral service} and has gotten worse and spread to other parts of my body (see above). I have seen my neurologist who oversees my muscle disease and he thinks this pain is nerve pain, something going on in my back and that it's a secondary result of my disease progression. He ordered an MRI of my back in June and it just got approved by my insurance last Friday, August 1st. I just found out yesterday what time the MRI will be on August 25th. I cannot wait for that day, for that next step to find out what's going on and how my doctor can better treat/manage my pain. In addition to the constant pain, both of my arms are weakening drastically that it's getting more difficult to do certain daily functions like brushing my teeth or eating a meal that requires a spoon. It's depressing, but I will not go down without a fight! When you hit bottom, more than once, the only way to go is up and forward. <br />
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I am so tired guys. I am tired of being in pain every.single.day. I am tired of dealing with it. I am tired of feeling frustrated to the point I cry. I am tired of getting anxious. I am tired of feeling defeated. I am tired of feeling judged for taking the medications that I need to. I am tired of feeling or at least thinking, that my body is dwindling. That my disease is progressing MORE as I type this. That maybe the things I hope to happen in my future, wont, while I am alive on this Earth. I am tired of being tired. I am so weary.<br />
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<div class="version-KJ21 result-text-style-normal text-html ">
<i><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="passage-display-bcv">Isaiah 40:31</span></span></i> <br />
<div class="verse">
<i><span class="text Isa-40-31" id="en-KJ21-18429">"..but they that wait upon the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>
shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles,
they shall run and not be weary, and they shall walk and not faint."</span></i></div>
<div class="verse">
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However, I fight back. every day. I fight back with prayer. with reading my scriptures. with doing something nice for someone else. I fight back with adding humor in my life by watching re-runs of King of Queens or the Cosby Show. Ok. Peanut M&M's might enhance my negative fighting ninja skills. I am lifted up with frequent encouragement from my mom + friends.<br />
I fight back with positive thoughts. I feed myself with affirmations such as:<br />
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<b>I am beautiful.</b><br />
<b>I am strong.</b><br />
<b>I am a daughter of God.</b><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(feel free to use this mantra for yourself)</span><b> </b><br />
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I repeat it. over and over til I start to hear those words of life. until I start to believe them myself. to tap into that wellspring of restoration and hope.<br />
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I fight back by crying and sometimes, literally crying out to God that I need His help. If my troubles can't be swept away, then at least for comfort & strength that I can keep enduring what I need to. It's all either for my own good or for others around me to benefit from,boost up OR maybe it's a combination of both, but my life is of worth. My life, with its trials, are for God's glory. He has chosen me. He has chosen you. When I remember that, I am re-grounded. I truly appreciate my imperfect body, my imperfect life. I am given unique qualities that help build up the kingdom of God, just as you do too. I am eternally grateful for Jesus Christ, my Savior. Because of Him, I know that I can overcome my problems, not just my physical ones.<br />
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There is always hope. I see that, time and time again. Hope is <u><i>such</i></u> a beautiful thing. The following scriptures also come to mind:<br />
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<i>Ether 12: 4, 6</i><br />
<i><span class="verse"></span>"Wherefore, whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world, yea, even a place at the right hand of God, which hope cometh of faith, maketh an anchor to the souls of men, which would make them sure and steadfast, always abounding in good works, being led to glorify God.</i><br />
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<i>And now, I, Moroni, would speak somewhat concerning these things; I would show unto the world that faith is things which are hoped for and not seen; wherefore, dispute not because ye see not, for ye receive no witness until after the trial of your faith."</i><br />
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Blogging helps me. Reaching out to others helps me. Being part of community helps me, such as the blogging community, community on instagram and my church community. Thank you for being who you are and for embracing me.<br />
<i> </i><br />
Through the mess, I weed out the bad and find the good. the good little golden nuggets that shine bright, that help lead me home.<i><br /></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span class="passage-display-bcv"><br /></span></span></div>
Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-5612908405102120542014-07-18T14:59:00.001-07:002014-07-18T14:59:14.380-07:00Kim & Kanye Say I DoI've realized that I haven't posted anything new in about a month. I think this is the longest stretch I've ever gone without blogging. Oh, how much I've missed it. I can't promise that I'll post weekly, but for now, let me start catching you up on my life and events that have happened since mid-June.<br />
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My cousin Brookie got married on Saturday, June 14th at a golf resort here in the valley of Phoenix. Brookie falls as the fourth oldest grand-daughter on our side of the family.<br />
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My friends & I got to the wedding about 30 minutes early, so it was nice to mingle with family, especially those who came from out of state. Of course, I snapped some shots with my siblings, stepmom and my cousin Nick and got my great uncle Artie flexing his muscles haha. Artie is my grandpa Henry's baby brother. <br />
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My grandpa Henry passed away in March, so it's even more special for me to be able to see my grandpa's siblings for a special event as this wedding. I love that these types of celebrations bring people together, like I haven't really gotten to visit with my cousin Nick in a long time.<br />
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Brooke and her bridesmaids all looked gorgeous! My cousin had her hair
curled, and down, with a lovely headband adorned on her head. Her groom,
Randy, who I must say is such a down-to-earth, compassionate guy, wore
olive green khakis slightly rolled up with suspenders as did his
groomsmen. ( I loved that! and those guys all got dancin moves!) All the
men, including my Uncle Albert (father of the bride), and Brookie's
three brothers, all had crisp white button down shirts with a pretty
mint little flower pinned to their shirt.<br />
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My aunt June (mother of the bride), walked down the aisle in beautiful gray/silver sparkly form fitting dress with a turqoise/mint beaded statement necklace. Besides everyone looking wonderful, the wedding ceremony itself was
short & sweet. It took place outside, in the shade (thank God, cuz
here in AZ it's hot as can be!), and actually wasn't that bad. I don't
think I even sweated lol. The groom & bride poured two different
colors of sand to symbolize their union and afterward, the pastor lead
us all in prayer. It was beautiful. I have to tell you too that when the
procession started, I started to tear up! :) Oh, and the simple, two or
three piece band that played live music before the ceremony started was
AMAZING! (I didn't get a pic of them though).<br />
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After the ceremony, the reception/dinner began. We had mexican food and the ballroom was decorated with hints of mint & silver/gray. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to stay too long, but I heard that the party went on til 1 in the morning (officially in the ballroom) but family & friends were up celebrating til early morning!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMrmj_m8Z1AHZ7MbsbZJap4-tVnHuoVbygT1OiaMcucckuD0aNycc0RxixaNHWrWfBU6BnjcZ04qy8BO0kPmfACtSVF5Kf1aI_6PQUCnFr_ug71g1ScO2dNRGw14WLYwt5jhpo7Zf74e0/s1600/DSC07991.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMrmj_m8Z1AHZ7MbsbZJap4-tVnHuoVbygT1OiaMcucckuD0aNycc0RxixaNHWrWfBU6BnjcZ04qy8BO0kPmfACtSVF5Kf1aI_6PQUCnFr_ug71g1ScO2dNRGw14WLYwt5jhpo7Zf74e0/s1600/DSC07991.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now,<i> THAT</i> smile says it all.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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(her smile says it all too.)</div>
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I am so happy I got to witness their wedding and celebrate in the sweet love that her & her hubby have for each other.<br />
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Now, I say that Kanye and Kim got married which is totally funny, because I've referred to brookie as Kim Kardashian when describing her/talking about her with my friends and over a year later, right after the wedding, I discovered that my cousin Bridget (sister of bride) referred to Brookie as Kim and well, Randy is Kanye! hahaha. Seriously, my cousins (all sisters), Brookie, Bridget & Brie ARE LIKE Kim, Kourtney & Khloe Kardashian!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDRDUktahYtIcAsQaDY6d8KyRC6i54bPhF_PYJDTNTpby51k2IoMAIzvqbb3xVWMAebNjlBo1QFEJ9HUPB7bx4TCOxplXHYU2qBoTl-D1JZkFE49FH3y_Nc23Xb0o45bVrez9qAvBimk/s1600/DSC08010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDRDUktahYtIcAsQaDY6d8KyRC6i54bPhF_PYJDTNTpby51k2IoMAIzvqbb3xVWMAebNjlBo1QFEJ9HUPB7bx4TCOxplXHYU2qBoTl-D1JZkFE49FH3y_Nc23Xb0o45bVrez9qAvBimk/s1600/DSC08010.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhKDxAO26ZTLKGfvYe2DQSM5Y3zBra2Pstbb2Lw5m-BY6xzvk1SG9HdPGiRddW5ED1oQ2E2WrO52UuSEAE-5wPWWTvNakYoSkxH8bBUe_pukOaC6r0xnfGfiKCh8-LrDJefsp-LgjuN34/s1600/DSC08021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhKDxAO26ZTLKGfvYe2DQSM5Y3zBra2Pstbb2Lw5m-BY6xzvk1SG9HdPGiRddW5ED1oQ2E2WrO52UuSEAE-5wPWWTvNakYoSkxH8bBUe_pukOaC6r0xnfGfiKCh8-LrDJefsp-LgjuN34/s1600/DSC08021.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">first dance!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoEVMqZHSh2itRfUYUrV50c9jNLZqkCVoMWqNKFJtJV17Tr1ZFHcWp8ieNAf5SwdeuuUaHtxkZLSCpZOlGLskQIbYpzIrvXReaqSJVn06epdgHOx_qqI9VcUfZNHbJ8F3UYVm1ZcbFSBM/s1600/DSC08022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoEVMqZHSh2itRfUYUrV50c9jNLZqkCVoMWqNKFJtJV17Tr1ZFHcWp8ieNAf5SwdeuuUaHtxkZLSCpZOlGLskQIbYpzIrvXReaqSJVn06epdgHOx_qqI9VcUfZNHbJ8F3UYVm1ZcbFSBM/s1600/DSC08022.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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MANY MANY cheerful wishes of love, health & happiness to YOU Brookie & Randy!! I am SO excited for you & your future together! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhailUpMWLsbGOEkDBXKaEOMVclSMZpKaUK74ax09khbiifccYjSi6SwbTSnSd5ExIfCG3qoohduTXA7haHi8vPYK8jNd1of-l7R6BPDWoQhfTS9rJY2SmGSXM3InENqms9jdPUKOdos8A/s1600/photo+3(30).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhailUpMWLsbGOEkDBXKaEOMVclSMZpKaUK74ax09khbiifccYjSi6SwbTSnSd5ExIfCG3qoohduTXA7haHi8vPYK8jNd1of-l7R6BPDWoQhfTS9rJY2SmGSXM3InENqms9jdPUKOdos8A/s1600/photo+3(30).JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(uncle roy's shirt photo bombed!)</span></div>
Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-71290062220612934182014-06-20T18:19:00.000-07:002014-06-20T18:19:22.457-07:00shopping for a cause for the paws!Hey friends!<br />
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I am so excited because I am participating in the SoCal Bulldog Rescue Summer Blast Auction this weekend! The auction started this morning BUT runs through 8PM PST on Sunday, June 22nd. If you are in the mood for shopping, please check out the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.665983343478107.1073741831.150118288397951&type=1" target="_blank">SCBR Summer Blast Auction album</a> on facebook. There you will find a variety items up for bid and some are even perfect gifts for the animal lover in your life or for YOUR dog!<br />
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On tuesday and wednesday of this week I worked on cards that I donated. You can see the cards I made in the album. Mine are lot number 149 and 150. It feels good to be able to donate to a special cause that is very dear to my heart and that is pet rescue! The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/southerncaliforniabulldogrescue" target="_blank">SCBR</a> has over 100 bulldogs that they are caring for as those babies wait for their forever home. Some of the dogs have special needs, are in need of surgery or simply require frequent vet visits which can become very costly! All the proceeds of the auction will go directly to the care of these beautiful bulldogs. Everyone who works with the rescue group are volunteers!<br />
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Here is a small sampling of items up for auction!<br />
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I really want<a href="https://www.facebook.com/150118288397951/photos/a.665983343478107.1073741831.150118288397951/669006836509091/?type=3&theater" target="_blank"> this hoodie</a>, but I can't bid any higher (sad face)!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyphZE0qIOZoW1Jj8ylAVEU2MRt2F2-tVNLsFPoC5yqrpetYohqhoGc-fLvRLulj6xviEnzs-IbkKQKL2BEo_TyWy56Zc4K4AgpU-HdLw2X5CbXxVE-KjF4ryphRfPDmwvotzBKxoX-Kw/s1600/cranberry+hoodie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyphZE0qIOZoW1Jj8ylAVEU2MRt2F2-tVNLsFPoC5yqrpetYohqhoGc-fLvRLulj6xviEnzs-IbkKQKL2BEo_TyWy56Zc4K4AgpU-HdLw2X5CbXxVE-KjF4ryphRfPDmwvotzBKxoX-Kw/s1600/cranberry+hoodie.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
How about a super cute <a href="https://www.facebook.com/150118288397951/photos/a.665983343478107.1073741831.150118288397951/669678966441878/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">coffee mug</a>?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh052K4CJJm5_cMm3bSAd2LzGiUHMY0pfvXlI2OLWCcrbIypEgtwTa_xAe3i1wLa58hpnz93yl0qulu89FdYKCFtMpwU-01todcPshLeoAVOJz3x7uK1jtV2UQcdoo6SfQTIuzftqY4l1A/s1600/bulldog+coffee+mug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh052K4CJJm5_cMm3bSAd2LzGiUHMY0pfvXlI2OLWCcrbIypEgtwTa_xAe3i1wLa58hpnz93yl0qulu89FdYKCFtMpwU-01todcPshLeoAVOJz3x7uK1jtV2UQcdoo6SfQTIuzftqY4l1A/s1600/bulldog+coffee+mug.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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Or a<a href="https://www.facebook.com/150118288397951/photos/a.665983343478107.1073741831.150118288397951/669687813107660/?type=3&theater" target="_blank"> new purse</a> with a little bling!? Can be made into a crossbody!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxi1T9JIFb1bpFG_uV5-JlCzylQwHpF-0rnB7sTjxxVgtSeO48COec0P52ZIdOsQP_X0P6BymJxZdKRVDfs-n657ZBbMTizjZGRY3CKd77cfya9n3AGMIrtUMVWH2WkPFrAIRaMLUBR8/s1600/brown+purse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxi1T9JIFb1bpFG_uV5-JlCzylQwHpF-0rnB7sTjxxVgtSeO48COec0P52ZIdOsQP_X0P6BymJxZdKRVDfs-n657ZBbMTizjZGRY3CKd77cfya9n3AGMIrtUMVWH2WkPFrAIRaMLUBR8/s1600/brown+purse.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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and let's get practical! A cute <a href="https://www.facebook.com/150118288397951/photos/a.665983343478107.1073741831.150118288397951/669690666440708/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">poop holder with bags</a> and a nylabone!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieURUKZB0VyxYNL0KaH2YXSwrr2OjT-Yr6kRcLFMF9n2NL01K_pWrcwA2oRSdzzVqr8kAwhzwNS9ZxLJLQieCKmXDXPOJg_2GHAkcm0atsUOMLcX_N_0R54_PlCqKrBqRQ-_zwXOqZcK8/s1600/poop+bags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieURUKZB0VyxYNL0KaH2YXSwrr2OjT-Yr6kRcLFMF9n2NL01K_pWrcwA2oRSdzzVqr8kAwhzwNS9ZxLJLQieCKmXDXPOJg_2GHAkcm0atsUOMLcX_N_0R54_PlCqKrBqRQ-_zwXOqZcK8/s1600/poop+bags.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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and here are the cards I made:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimOKk0cCoclrmBmUM5oPo7l6CkyKDnmdIn99kjDrHUJC7WgnMaz-zTOj2_PUPlQiKKbW_dZ1Wsbjow2Qnmu2sDLDYaMOLwC-vJwCZiYEHalel6Rg01YGv-orR9otKVJ0gHhMLOeG4d4rw/s1600/socalbrcards.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimOKk0cCoclrmBmUM5oPo7l6CkyKDnmdIn99kjDrHUJC7WgnMaz-zTOj2_PUPlQiKKbW_dZ1Wsbjow2Qnmu2sDLDYaMOLwC-vJwCZiYEHalel6Rg01YGv-orR9otKVJ0gHhMLOeG4d4rw/s1600/socalbrcards.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO7kuuZTyG-BlcvNuU-gzN0Novp8gFhM1P_ThA7QBJy3HNn-a9Z-luoBgxazJmcb7U1RWLpFhSNMxmkX9OToF0zYu_VLO9OyapXU3lnhsLt5EBycgLzVVNIFo0M28WHTeOuMA_ZORssBg/s1600/socalbrcards1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO7kuuZTyG-BlcvNuU-gzN0Novp8gFhM1P_ThA7QBJy3HNn-a9Z-luoBgxazJmcb7U1RWLpFhSNMxmkX9OToF0zYu_VLO9OyapXU3lnhsLt5EBycgLzVVNIFo0M28WHTeOuMA_ZORssBg/s1600/socalbrcards1.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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If any of these items peeked your interest, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.665983343478107.1073741831.150118288397951&type=3" target="_blank">hurry on over this weekend </a>and place your bid and browse the other great items up for grabs! Please feel free to share my post, and spread the word about the auction! We can make a difference! Even if you can't afford to bid on anything, just spreading the word by tweeting, sharing on google+, or re-posting on your facebook can help! If you "LIKE" the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/SCBR-Supporters-Page/150118288397951" target="_blank">SCBR supporters page</a>, you can definitely share it with all of your family & friends on facebook!<br />
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Thank you so much and hope you have a great weekend! :)Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-20759589566868323932014-06-11T14:02:00.000-07:002014-06-11T14:02:27.061-07:00U By Kotex Saves the Undies <div style="text-align: center;">
<b><i>*Special thanks to U by Kotex® Pads for sponsoring today's discussion, however, all opinions are my own.</i></b></div>
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I must apologize to the men who may read my blog, but we're talking lady talk, so just beware! Hey, it's ok if you wanna keep reading. This might help your best girl friend, girlfriend, future wife or wife! ;)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEngfO_OSaEbrIkMzIf3_McEYhBX02FUTy4ftMw24ZJtndydIFG147j3mxrhCXvpG63xunr01WqO3GN01Vv3Krb3WE3F-IP2Uo1ZU0p6uSUsClEoX4kDjhLVIf6VnE8ulkkrMsLE6xOGE/s1600/fave+pair+undies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEngfO_OSaEbrIkMzIf3_McEYhBX02FUTy4ftMw24ZJtndydIFG147j3mxrhCXvpG63xunr01WqO3GN01Vv3Krb3WE3F-IP2Uo1ZU0p6uSUsClEoX4kDjhLVIf6VnE8ulkkrMsLE6xOGE/s1600/fave+pair+undies.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Let me take you back to January 18th of this year. This was a very special day. It was the day I got baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I opted to wear a vanilla shade dress for my special day. Because of the color, I bought a special pair of nude colored undies. As soon as I put them on, I knew these would be my favorite boyshorts. They are so comfortable and are easily disguised underneath clothing. The material is soft and stays at all the right places! Well, that all changed when I got home that day to find that I had started my period! Talk about an unexpected visitor! My dress and undies were a mess! I wish I would have known about U by Kotex cleanwear ultra thin pads, especially the ones featuring the <a href="http://ooh.li/d43233d" target="_blank">3D Caption Core</a>. This new design by U by Kotex features a one-of-a-kind center that locks away wetness to help stop leaks. Now available in Cleanwear® pads, AllNighter® pads and Security* pads. Now, that's something I could have really used!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyiTu51qW1mO_Li_xlU2hLUd3UouUMwRXK-S5iAlfRmdM04ANaV_cxZ6W9uZ4fAyyW8KjuZBJn-GaHitLVDCqs6qqA_uO5HS5Sm_zWOKw4fOJZDhc2ECGr1jrHMWE77X5Adn2d07m6kcI/s1600/photo+1(38).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyiTu51qW1mO_Li_xlU2hLUd3UouUMwRXK-S5iAlfRmdM04ANaV_cxZ6W9uZ4fAyyW8KjuZBJn-GaHitLVDCqs6qqA_uO5HS5Sm_zWOKw4fOJZDhc2ECGr1jrHMWE77X5Adn2d07m6kcI/s1600/photo+1(38).JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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I know better now that these pads and liners can help me save the undies! I actually recently tried <a href="http://ooh.li/d43233d" target="_blank">U by Kotex Cleanwear Ultra thin regular pads</a>. They were comfortable to wear. I liked that the pad was wide enough to make me feel protected and safe from leaks occurring, and they are thin enough without the bulge of a thicker pad. I don't really want to feel like I am wearing a mini diaper!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOEDAEtC0mwHuX9z7vQT9hCGdu5YHlF6WCiP1GTFsPmEnL8oTCKNt2JMGRjVR8ZQr8-Uvaepk-zeMgaw5n1i4FHKhu4InvSnKcWp47Qa1ZYoMkz8x_h1fd3xihRFpUwNRobJhyphenhyphenWWzWiU0/s1600/photo+2(35).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOEDAEtC0mwHuX9z7vQT9hCGdu5YHlF6WCiP1GTFsPmEnL8oTCKNt2JMGRjVR8ZQr8-Uvaepk-zeMgaw5n1i4FHKhu4InvSnKcWp47Qa1ZYoMkz8x_h1fd3xihRFpUwNRobJhyphenhyphenWWzWiU0/s1600/photo+2(35).JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
I had no idea that <a href="http://ooh.li/d43233d" target="_blank">U by Kotex®</a> offers a full line of feminine care products for periods including pads, liners and tampons. Outstanding protection that keeps you one step ahead. This is a huge relief to me because I can have confidence in knowing that my next favorite pair of underwear wont be ruined, hopefully! Plus, I just gotta add how cute the packaging design is of each individual pad.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJdQrSa1H2XTSamdzXia5nfwZ1209F6ZrSkEWwOdwMSIKg3fJx_Q1VAgl9XwcS_LAshCIgrJ4g2SUTgBnwA1lZZ63pY0caERpS5Vept3n3WbKrHSJezyIfm1c8zcI4GQ6vCV75ks6ng2E/s1600/photo+3(26).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJdQrSa1H2XTSamdzXia5nfwZ1209F6ZrSkEWwOdwMSIKg3fJx_Q1VAgl9XwcS_LAshCIgrJ4g2SUTgBnwA1lZZ63pY0caERpS5Vept3n3WbKrHSJezyIfm1c8zcI4GQ6vCV75ks6ng2E/s1600/photo+3(26).JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin1zSTFL3Hh_BBePnwRF14aQuEnFP5U08mcFB7b5Xwcox0sY4_mGKUgGsGibNluEa9dV08PQMf4IJE_dgkBBgy2hNWwwe9ZyjFW5IWOlcWnYM9eFjmWJKHV9OW-BwAHekRfJ0yoYQ9a54/s1600/purple+pad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin1zSTFL3Hh_BBePnwRF14aQuEnFP5U08mcFB7b5Xwcox0sY4_mGKUgGsGibNluEa9dV08PQMf4IJE_dgkBBgy2hNWwwe9ZyjFW5IWOlcWnYM9eFjmWJKHV9OW-BwAHekRfJ0yoYQ9a54/s1600/purple+pad.jpg" height="400" width="342" /></a></div>
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Have you tried these pads before or any of U by Kotex products? If you haven't, you're in luck because you can try these pads for yourself! You can go to the U by Kotex landing page and request a <a href="http://ooh.li/d43233d" target="_blank">free sample</a> of the U by Kotex hygiene products that will work best for you and help you save the undies! Just click on the blue "free sample" button, enter your mailing info and then you'll be set to go!<br />
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<img nbsp="" src="http://ooh.li/b356d11" /><br />
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<br />Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-37078310280146100932014-06-10T11:29:00.002-07:002014-06-10T11:29:46.628-07:00little brother graduates!On May 21st, my youngest brother graduated from high school! and with honors in Spanish! I sometimes call him Slim Jim because he's tall and skinny. He's also a golfer. He was on the varsity team since he was a freshman AND he was the number play those four years of high school! Yeh, I just gotta brag! Proud big sister here! He is off to the community college for his basics and then he'll probably transfer to a university for golf management.<br />
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So then on Saturday May 31st, I traveled out the east valley (about an hour from my house) to go to Slim Jim's graduation party. Before I went to my dad's, me and my friend Bradley stopped by my mom's house. It was good to visit with her and my aunt and our dogs. Oh those babies are so cute!<br />
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When I first got into my mom's doorway, I felt one of them licking my toes. It was emme saying hello and giving a little love! She is our last Boston Terrier. We rescued her. The couple that had her moved out of state, and so we took her. We had four, but the older three have passed on, emme is the last of the original four. She is so gentle and calm. She's the "mama" to our two other dogs, both boys. They absolutely adore her and their bodies have to touch hers, like if they are all laying down on the floor or couch, so funny.<br />
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Around 6pm, we arrived at my dad's for the party. It was so nice to see some family and old friends of our family's as well as a couple of my good neighbors that I've known for about 16-19 years! One of them, Chris, is so sweet. My leg started flaring up and I still had over an hour before I could take my next round of meds. She went over to her house across the street and brought me her ice pack that I could put on my leg to help me! The ice did seem to help much more than when I use my heating pad. Her ice pack was cool because it was soft and flexible, unlike those blocks you put in your lunch bag! haha.<br />
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Also at the party, I got to see my step aunt Sharon who is hilarious! Her and her hubby D live in the Houston, Texas area and so I don't always get to see them very much, maybe a couple times a year. <br />
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My stepmom and sister made lots of yummy sub sandwiches, almost 100! plus pasta salad (my fave!), chips & dip, and fresh fruit cut up.<br />
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I got to meet a couple of Slim Jim's good friends. Since I don't see my younger siblings that much, it's neat to meet their friends who they spend alot of time with ya know, especially when they were in the high school setting.<br />
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Of course, there was time for selfies! We love selfies!<br />
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Overall, it was a great time and happy I got to see my family!<br />
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I initially was going to post this on Saturday (a few days ago) but blogger was acting up and my post was lost! Frankly, I was quite mad and was not in the mood to draft it again and I had no more time, so I am hoping blogger cooperates and posts today!Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-72754746749536384132014-05-30T16:54:00.001-07:002014-05-30T16:54:51.413-07:00a not so graceful day<br />
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It's obvious that I haven't posted anything in two weeks. Frankly, this season in my life has been a difficult one. My emotions have been running high, my body in physical pain, my brain becoming exhausted and spiritually I am fighting against negative forces. I've been feeling like Satan has been attacking me, trying to sway me off the faithful path the past couple months, especially that past six weeks. He's trying to get me while I am most vulnerable and weak, but he will not succeed! I've received three priesthood blessings that have helped me to endure and give me comfort in my trying times.<br />
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My left leg has been hurting me bad the past seven weeks and it only seems to be getting worse. I get spasms, throbbing or sharp shooting pain. Now my back has been giving me grief for a week now. Some days are more trying while others are not so bad, but my pain tolerance is low, very low. I've been taking pain medication and my primary doctor prescribed me a low dose of baclofen, a muscle relaxer, but that doesn't seem to be helping much and I need the dosage increased to 20mg because that's the usual norm prescribed. This doctor doesn't really know much about my muscle disease, so I can't blame. I just can't wait to get to see my neurologist on Monday June 9th. He oversees my <a href="http://mdausa.org/disease/spinal-muscular-atrophy" target="_blank">SMA</a> (spinal muscle atrophy) and I know he will know how to better manage my pain and help me better.<br />
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On tuesday of this week, I had a not-so-graceful-day. The first part of my day was going great. I babysat little P. for a couple hours or so. I took with her with me to the pharmacy with my friend James. She behaves so well and is so helpful. While we were out at the store, she helped me pick out items that I couldn't reach. This is her nature: so sweet, so willing to help and so full of love. She randomly tells me all the time that I am her best friend. The sweetest! She begged me the day before to play games on my laptop, but we ran out of time. I told her she could the next day (tuesday). Later in the afternoon, I set up her games on NickJr.com for her to play Paw Patrol and happily she was content for a while. I went in the living room and watched netflix with my roommate sherri. Little P. kept calling me for asking for help because the screen would freeze on my laptop or somehow she clicked out of the game, etc. I started to get irritated and around the same time, my leg started flaring up. I know it's no excuse, my pain, but I raised my voice at little P. and I found myself getting mad at her for "bothering" me with needing help with her game. Poor thing, she just needed help. She wasn't doing anything wrong. Later, I snapped at James and he was only trying to help me (though I didn't want or need his help). I apologized to James for being snappy. He said he didn't even notice! lol. What a great friend he is to me.<br />
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I was getting frustrated because mostly because I was in pain, and even though sometimes I am physically tired from the muscle relaxer, I am and was more tired of hurting and dealing with this every. single. day. It's all taxing. This was the start of an emotional breakdown later that evening as I lay in bed staring at my popcorn paint ceiling. So many negative thoughts flooded my mind, but i combatted them with positive ones, telling myself:<br />
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"Brittany, this pain will not last forever.<br />
"this too shall pass."<br />
"God is with you. You're not alone. You have such a great support system. You have your family and amazing friends who love and support you."<br />
"I am weak right now, needing help, but in Christ you are made strong."<br />
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I prayed and pleaded with God to help me. to give me strength. I said, "God, I need you. I cannot do this alone. There is no way. I need your help. Please be with me."<br />
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I tried to fight the tears, but they came anyway. I am glad. I need to get over this, "crying is shameful."<br />
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It's ok to be down. It's ok to feel sad and overwhelmed and frustrated.<br />
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I realized that I am gifted with grace through my Savior.<br />
From 2 Corinthians 12:9, And he said unto me, <span class="highlight">My</span> <span class="highlight">grace</span> is <span class="highlight">sufficient</span> for thee: for <span class="highlight">my</span> strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in <span class="highlight">my</span> infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." How much this verse speaks to me! <br />
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He perfects me little by little. I am not perfect by any means. I mean, see how I reacted on tuesday.<br />
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I started reading this article called, "<a href="https://www.lds.org/liahona/2010/08/those-who-are-different?lang=eng&query=we+are+all+different" target="_blank">Those who are all different</a>" by Elder Marlin K. Jensen from the August 2010 Ensign. I read the first page, and BAM! The tears started rollin, my heart was partially broken and yet, uplifted. It made me think about my life and how my muscle disease is getting worse as I type this. It made me think about how much tougher my life has been the past two months, but also the challenges that lie ahead. I thought about God's plan for my life and how my little life is part of his divine, great plan. In comparison, no doubt, I would gladly take these burdens rather than a child or young adult. I KNOW I would. Things may be hard, but I know I can endure them with the help of my heavenly father and through these struggles, I can see how my compassion and empathy will increase and that is a gift. Maybe I will discover my strength? Maybe I'll become more brave and more strong in my faith. I always love growing closer to my God and I think he loves that too. I know He loves me. His love and mercy is greater than any burden I may carry. Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-75855893956462483482014-05-13T10:55:00.000-07:002014-05-13T10:55:25.324-07:00Graduation Giveaway with Alyssa of Impractical Composition!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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▲ <a href="http://www.alyssadawsonblog.com/">Impractical Composition</a> <span style="text-align: left;">▲ <a href="http://www.lovetheskinnys.com/">Love, The Skinnys</a> </span><span style="text-align: left;">▲<a href="http://beelittlequeen.blogspot.com/">Sunny Tales and Happy Mail</a> </span><span style="text-align: left;">▲ <a href="http://www.oliveandivyblog.com/">Olive & Ivy</a> </span><span style="text-align: left;">▲</span></div>
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<i>I couldn't say no, when Alyssa of Impractical Composition asked me if I wanted to help celebrate her college graduation with a giveaway! She's worked so hard and hey, a graduation of any kind is a BIG DEAL, so let's help her celebrate! Congrats Girl!!!</i><br />
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<i>A few words from the graduating girl!....</i><br />
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The days is finally here, it's the day I've waited for, for the past 6 years. <i>I'm graduating today!!</i> <i>*raise the roof emoji*</i> I cannot begin to tell you how exciting and relieving it's going to be to walk across that stage. I really just hope I don't trip-but I think that's what goes through everyone's mind!<br />
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So, today I'm teaming up with 10 wonderful bloggers to bring you this graduation giveaway in hopes that you will enjoy today as much as me! </div>
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Good Luck to you all!<br />
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Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-34152444059335144472014-05-12T16:57:00.005-07:002014-05-12T16:57:37.358-07:005 little confessionsI feel like I want to bust of a box that I've been confined to<br />
for a week now...and one way I can do that i typing up this fun blog post and <a href="http://www.justjacq.com/2014/05/07/5-little-confessions/" target="_blank">linking up with Jacque </a>and friends!<br />
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I think link-ups are pretty fun. not so serious. I've been too serious lately. Time for a little fun. I always enjoy reading other people's posts like these that give what seem like random details into their lives...stalker-ish much? ok, you do too?! great! :)<br />
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There's no set theme for my five little confessions, so here ya go:<br />
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1. I've been sick with respiratory problems for over a week. There's been lots of extra albuterol breathing treatments and naps. Last night I took my last dose of prednisone (steroid and tastes gross!). I go back to see my pulmonologist tomorrow to make sure I am A-Ok. I am feeling better but not quite 100%. The many thoughtful prayers I've had on my behalf and priesthood blessings I've received are helping me. This past weekend I felt like I had an epiphany spiritually and I think that's helped my health overall, because being stuck inside has lead me to think of myself as the bubble girl.<br />
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2. The House Bunny, The Vow, Full House, Criminal Minds, Hart of Dixie and The Backup Plan have been seen this past week. *guilty mindless indulgences*. I just love Anna Farris. I don't watch much tv, but since being sick, I've watched more than usual.<br />
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3. I know over ten people who are graduating this month! From Kindergarten to Medical School. I want to give everyone a gift but I can't afford it, so a nice card will have to do.<br />
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4. I am planning to enroll through ASU online and take a class by August. I am quite excited to start school again (been out for 4 years) and work toward my bachelor's degree.<br />
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5. I can only drink organic milk. I did an experiment with different milks about three years ago. Soy, Lactose free, almond and it wasn't all fun.They all gave me stomach cramps and diarrhea! My stomach doesnt agree with regular milk. I am thankful my body can handle organic milk because I LOVE chocolate milk or strawberry milk (thanks Nestle Nesquik!) and I sometimes crave cold cereal. Mmm, multi-grain cheerios, fruity pebbles, honey bunches of oats or good ol corn flakes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqkTPRFLlmhHpBnOqD53m-p3QYyBakMa4NaeF7O3uzPaDpo_Gv7LSB9Thwx_RIu_yz2iQGtr9YuNxAnVnU7P8hostLkxesRlC9BWiW7RQkEoz7YIL91_vxKOkrhcFOgQ4zUjBIRV4w-88/s1600/photo(13).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqkTPRFLlmhHpBnOqD53m-p3QYyBakMa4NaeF7O3uzPaDpo_Gv7LSB9Thwx_RIu_yz2iQGtr9YuNxAnVnU7P8hostLkxesRlC9BWiW7RQkEoz7YIL91_vxKOkrhcFOgQ4zUjBIRV4w-88/s1600/photo(13).JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mmm chocolate milk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
* no Nestle or cereal companies did not pay me to say the above. just my own opinion! <br />
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what are your favorite cereals? Have you seen any good movies or shows lately?<br />
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<br />Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-24327273751252655352014-05-08T18:04:00.002-07:002014-05-08T18:08:28.952-07:00what I wore thursday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">dress: target, earrings: online boutique, ring: american eagle, watch: nordstroms</span></div>
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Life has been lived behind the scenes lately. Some of you may have
noticed that I haven't posted anything in like two weeks and there are
many reasons for that.<br />
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One reason is that I've been sick with respiratory issues and I am on day three of taking a steroid to help open up my lungs. It's been a long week but to give myself a motivational kick, I got dressed in a new dress from Target #targetforthewin! and put makeup on AND my hair cooperated today! Yay! I am on a roll.<br />
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My steam is running low though and I'm feeling tired. I am just taking it one day at a time right now because I do not want to take a vacation to the hospital.<br />
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It's amazing how looking good on the outside can affect how you feel on the inside! It helps. it really does.<br />
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So, for you my friends, I bring "what I wore thursday" and how I did my makeup today.<br />
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<b><u>eye makeup details:</u></b><br />
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L'oreal true match crayon concealer in fair/light w1-2-3 (used under and in inner corner of my eyes)<br />
Arbonne eyeshadow in suede (all over lid)<br />
MAC eyeshadow in orange (crease of lid blended inward)<br />
Sonia Kashuk enhance eye color in aubergine (purchased years ago) (in very crease)<br />
Stila all day waterproof liquid eyeliner in intense black<br />
makeup forever aqua eyes eyeliner pencil in black<br />
L'oreal lash out butterfly waterproof mascara in blackest black<br />
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I should also inform you that I finished reading "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Greene, last night. What a sweet ending. I thoroughly liked the book. It was an easy read, it is classified as YA (young adult) afterall, but I felt like I was part of the conversation, as if I was right there with Hazel and Gus. I am starting a new read tonight, "the book thief" and I can't wait!<br />
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and Happy Mother's Day weekend! I just had to take a picture with my nana today! :) look at her style. she's so cute. <i>ThoSe</i> are her sunglasses!<br />
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<br />Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-64139156294234873742014-04-22T12:44:00.000-07:002014-04-22T12:44:35.531-07:00Easter weekendEaster is truly one of my favorite times of the year. What Easter means to me goes beyond the bunnies and chicks and peeps and chocolate. Now, while I do enjoy most of those baby animals or candy, Easter is all about who makes life possible and that is Jesus Christ.<br />
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He was crucified and died for our sins. And then, He did what no one else has done or could do: He was resurrected! <br />
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Because He conquered, I know that the grave has no victory.<br />
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Some of you might have seen a movement called, #BecauseofHim floatin around the internet?<br />
I saw the awesome short video that was simple yet so profound. It has made me think all week all the blessings that are in my life, because of Him.<br />
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Because of Him, I belong to a wonderful family. and someday, my family can be reunited again in Heaven. Because of Him, I gain strength through my weaknesses and challenges I face in this life. Because of Him, I have so much hope for the future and comfort knowing I am never alone.<br />
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I was blessed to have the company of my cousin Richard and a few friends stop by for a visit throughout Saturday. It was nice, because it was a good distraction for me to take my mind off the worries of the world. I love how positive and loving my friends and family are. They are always there for me and help me, without knowing they are helping me (and sometimes they really do, like run errands for me!) It's so great to have them in my life.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">waldo, the funniest.</td></tr>
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Then on Easter Sunday, I went to Sacrament meeting at Church and came home early to visit with my dad, stepmom, brother and sister. The Easter bunny did in fact visit me and gave me cute and yummy treats (but I didn't take a picture of it all) :( but I more importantly did some good photos with my family! Plus, my stepmom did my nails (she's an awesome nail tech)! so yay for pretty french tips! I always love spending time with any of my family or good friends! It was special because my dad gave me a nice, red journal that had belonged to my grandpa Henry. He didn't write anything in it, but I will always cherish it and will definitely fill it up with my life's adventures and thoughts.<br />
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I then ended my night watching the Hallmark movie, "In My Dreams." Did any of you catch that Sunday night? Or do you like Hallmark movies? I am a sucker for them and almost all of them made me cry, but not this one! haha.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sibling selfie!</td></tr>
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Overall, it was a good Easter weekend. I hope all of you got to spend time with your loved ones and had fun, in however you may celebrate :)Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-82057117796826189632014-04-21T13:52:00.001-07:002014-04-21T16:29:25.384-07:00Yoplait Greek 100 Taste-Off<i>*I'd like to thank Yoplait for sponsoring today's #Tasteoff post, and giving me the opportunity to express my completely, 100% honest opinions.</i><br />
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Oh what a treat we have today! I am so excited to present to you the #tasteoff challenge I took recently. I love yogurt. I actually eat yogurt everyday as I have difficulty swallowing pills, so I crush them up and mix them in with yogurt. I also believe consuming yogurt as a snack or with breakfast is a great way to keep me from packing on the pounds. I mean, it's light, creamy and comes in a variety of flavors! what's not to love? It all came down to <a href="http://r.linqia.cc/76dacdd" target="_blank">Yoplait Greek 100 Strawberry</a><a href="http://r.linqia.cc/76dacdd" target="_blank"> and Chobani Simply 100 Strawberry</a>. Since Greek yogurt has hit the market, I sometimes buy Greek yogurt to have as a snack because it's thicker in consistency, which I love (I can't stand runny yogurt!), and at 100 calories for the whole 5.3 oz container, I am so good to go.<br />
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I loved that I had the opportunity to participate in this taste-off. I rallied my friends Sherri, Heide and Sofia to test it out too. It was so fun setting it up and marking Yogurt A (Yoplait) and them not knowing which was which. I drew up little ballots to make the taste-off challenge more fun. I also mixed and scooped out the yogurt into glass bowls.<br />
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Everyone and I chose Yogurt A which was Yoplait!! It had a stronger trawberry flavor and strawberry chunks versus Chobani's. We all thought that Yoplait's was sweeter whereas Chobani's had a sour-ish, almost bitter aftertaste. While I do like that Chobani's yogurt is thicker, I actually surprised myself and chose the Yoplait because of the better strawberry flavor! <br />
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These 100 calorie Greek yogurts are a much better choice than chowing down on a bag of chips, right?! Yoplait Greek 100 is available nationally and offers 12 different flavors of their Greek yogurt such as black cherry, blueberry, strawberry banana, lemon, mixed fruit, apple pie, peach, tropical, however, my favorites are strawberry, key lime, vanilla and strawberry cheesecake. Have you tried Yoplait Greek 100 yogurt before? Which are your favorite flavors?<br />
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Check out the <a href="http://r.linqia.cc/76dacdd" target="_blank">Yoplait Greek website</a> and take the challenge for yourself!<br />
Now that I’ve taken the Yoplait
Taste-Off, now it’s your turn to get in on the fun! Come back and let me know who won your taste off!Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-56157999813453550332014-04-17T16:40:00.001-07:002014-04-17T16:40:02.693-07:00My new reality: part twoI've been soooo out of the loop with blogging that I've started to miss it. to miss you guys. to miss sharing what I've been up to and what's been on my heart.<br />
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First, I just want to sincerely thank you all who sent love, prayers and condolences to me and my family in this time since my grandpa Henry has passed. It's so much appreciated. We had his funeral, Thursday, April 3rd and then, Friday, April 4th, we took his him to the Superstition Mountains in Apache Junction. That day was my favorite part of "laying him to rest". I had so many relatives come from Texas, California and New Mexico to honor his life. I have a huge family and I am not joking when I say that I didn't even get to say Hello or take a photo with everyone over the two days!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandpa loved the mariachis</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandpa & Nana's Kids</td></tr>
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One good thing about funerals is that it brings people together. I absolutely loved seeing family and family friends come together for my grandpa.<br />
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My family decided to wear bright, springy colors the day of the funeral. I thought that was perfect, because my grandpa was so cheery and he loved plants and flowers. He was a landscaper afterall. The teal skirt hanging in my closet would be perfect, but I needed a nice, coordinating top to go with it, so my friend and caregiver Lynda took me to the mall Wednesday evening (the day before the funeral) to find a shirt and I did! The funeral took place at a Catholic Church in the east valley, about an hour away from my home. This was the church that he and his girlfriend went to every Sunday for Mass. We held a rosary prayer thirty minutes before the service actually began. During the service, we sang a few hymns, including, "how great thou art" and that just struck at my heartstrings...lots of tears flowed from the congregation.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view of the Superstition Mountains from the church</td></tr>
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After the service, the priest invited anyone to go up and offer words about my grandpa. I wanted to go but there were steps and the microphone on the podium was too high, plus the podium itself would block people from seeing me, so I was very thankful that my cousin Roy and cousin Devin went up. Shortly after, we had a luncheon there at the church and my cousin Bridget put together a amazing video full of photos throughout the years of my grandpa's life set to about five different songs. Oh, watching that video made me tear up so much. But I love it.<br />
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Later, after relaxing for a couple hours, everyone gathered at my aunt June's house for food and company. I wanted to stay longer, but I started not feeling well so I left around 9:30 and got home around 10:30 that night and I left my house at 8:45 in the morning!<br />
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I love my grandpa so much. I am so grateful to my good friends Kim & Elisa who were able to attend the funeral festivities with me as well to my mom who held my hand as we went up for communion. I am thankful that my family has many wonderful, generous friends who have helped us with the funeral. My grandpa is so loved and the love that was created by all those who attended was as if you could grasp it within your hands.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grandpa's brother, Les</td></tr>
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I am so thankful that I got to learn more about him and my other family members, like my nana margaret who passed away in 1997. The stories. Oh, the many stories that still need to be recorded. I have alot of catching up to do, but I am not complaining. I am privileged to hear, to know and learn and be with my family.<br />
<br />Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-38987098832979114252014-04-01T10:50:00.002-07:002014-04-01T10:52:21.914-07:00April Fools Day Giveaway! (not foolin ya)Happy April Fool's Day!<br />
I don't have any trickery planned for today and I honestly love a good laugh, but I can't handle any major tricks right now! My best trick was when I was in 8th grade and I gave some "chocolate" to my boy crush. He bit into it and all it was was chocolate covered cotton balls! hahahah. totally got him.<br />
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But seriously, what better way to start off April than with an AH-MAZING giveaway!? I promise this is not a joke! I am teaming up with Alyssa of Impractical Composition and other wonderful bloggers for this fun giveaway!<br />
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What foolery is up your sleeve today? Or did someone prank you? Tell me. I like to laugh :) <br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.alyssadawsonblog.com/">Impractical Composition</a> <span style="text-align: left;">△ </span><a href="http://www.auteurariel.com/" style="background-color: white; text-align: start; white-space: pre-wrap;">Auteur Ariel</a> <span style="text-align: left;">△ </span><a href="http://www.aubreyzaruba.com/" style="background-color: white; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">Dreaming About Someday</a> <span style="text-align: left;">△ </span><a href="http://beelittlequeen.blogspot.com/" style="background-color: white; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sunny Tales & Happy Mail</a></span></center>
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Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-82029415651278945272014-03-31T18:10:00.001-07:002014-03-31T18:10:34.385-07:00my new reality: part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This past week has been an emotional one for sure.<br />
My grandpa henry passed away somewhat suddenly last Wednesday, March 26th.<br />
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Let me tell you how much I saw God's hand in my life last week.<br />
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Last sunday, march 23-24th, I was having a discussion with a good friend about loss, death, family, eternal life and the things that really matter. Looking back, I feel like that talk with him prepared me for Wednesday. Tuesday night, my friend Carrie posted on our ward's facebook page if it was fast/testimony sunday (yesterday) and I thought, "yeh I am not going to go up for testimony since I just did a few weeks ago). This will come into play later. My mom happened to have vacation from work last week and we had planned for her to come visit me two weeks prior for the 26th. On wednesday, my mom and I went to Rubio's for lunch, one of our favorite places to eat. As we were waiting for dialride to pick us up to go there, my cousin steph called but I don't like talking on the phone when I am with other people, so I texted her and told her i'd call her back later that I was with my mom. Well, about 10 minutes later, my phone is vibrating and it's my dad calling, but I didn't answer because I was literally going down the lift on the dialaride bus and it was too loud for me to answer. My mom and I order food and get settled at a table and start eating when my dad calls again. I had to pick up. I<i> knew</i> something was going on to have him and my cousin be calling me at the same time. I answer, say, "hi dad." and my dad replies, "hi brittany. um, grandpa henry passed away this morning. yeh, my dad passed away." what felt like a minute, was probably just a couple seconds that it took to register in my brain that grandpa was dead. I immediately start crying, which quickly turned into sobbing. my mom is crying too and got up to stand and hug me to the side and picked up the phone because I couldn't even talk to my dad.<br />
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I cried and couldn't believe this happened (the shock factor.) Different thoughts crossed my mind including, "everyone in rubio's is probably wondering what happened to that girl." Then I didn't care, my grandpa just died. After I settled down a bit, in crying I asked my dad what happened. how did it happen? He said, "i don't know. all i know is that natalie (his girlfriend) found him and that we got to get his body to the mortuary right now."<br />
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After I got off the phone with my dad, I cried off and on more and just gushed out to my mom how thankful I was that she was with me that day. It's rare that my mom visits me during the week and just the fact that she <i>was there</i> with me was such a blessing. Later after we got home, I had a group of friends show up as we had a meeting planned for 4pm. I <b>completely</b> spaced it after talking with my dad. My elder missionaries and my friend J gave me a blessing which was so comforting and my girls (aka my teachers) gave me hugs and just let me know they were there for me. My friend stayed and talked with me for an hour and I cried more. Then, later that evening my friend Des stopped by unexpectedly and we talked and cried together for a little over an hour. It was such a Spirit filled conversation I just felt so strongly God's love for me that day.<br />
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Personally, I've had many condolences offered and prayers offered on behalf of me and my family. we truly appreciate it so much. I've had many texts and phone calls and facebook comments and messages left offering words of comfort as well as just communicating with family near and far. It was honestly overwhelming those first few days, not to say that I am not grateful. it's just that my grandpa was a popular, friendly, funny guy. I am so blessed to have so many who love me. Also, i think it was thursday evening that my friend carrie stopped by with flowers for me and was good to chat with her about other things too and then my friend rachel came by saturday and again, was so therapuetic to talk about my grandpa and just his life and the last two days of memories I have with him which I'll share in another post.<br />
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So about testimony/fast sunday? Yeh, after wednesday, that night, i just knew that I had to go up and share my testimony, the things I know and believe. I did and I went up for my grandpa. To share a bit about him and even though this is a time of saddness because we miss him, there is hope in Christ and the atonement.<br />
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In Mosiah 16:7-9, <br />
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<a class="bookmark-anchor dontHighlight" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="7"> </a><b><span class="verse"> </span>"And
if Christ had not risen from the dead, or have broken the bands of
death that the grave should have no victory, and that death should have
no sting, there could have been no resurrection.</b></div>
<b> </b><div class="">
<b><a class="bookmark-anchor dontHighlight" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="8"> </a><span class="verse"> </span>But there is a resurrection<sup> </sup>, therefore the grave hath no victory, and the sting of death<a class="footnote" href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/mosiah/16?lang=eng#" id="footnote22" rel="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/footnote?lang=eng&volumeUri=bofm&bookUri=mosiah&chapterUri=16&noteID=8b"></a> is swallowed up in Christ.</b></div>
<b> </b><div class="">
<b><a class="bookmark-anchor dontHighlight" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="9"> </a><span class="verse"> </span>He is the light
and the life of the world; yea, a light that is endless, that can never
be darkened; yea, and also a life which is endless, that there can be
no more death. "</b></div>
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It comforts me to no end that death does NOT claim victory over us. Because of Christ and his sacrifice and resurrection, He overcame death and it's such a blessing to know that death will not conquer us either and that we can have eternal life and live in a perfect paradise with our creator, God. I know I'll see my grandpa again, someday.<br />
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It's monday now, and it still hasn't quite hit me that my life is completely changed with my grandpa gone. This is my new reality: that I must keep going forward and living my life wholeheartedly and passionately as he did. I do know that I've just gone through and am going through a major life defining moment. I know everything will be good because of my Heavenly Father and the promises he has made. My faith and trust lies in Him and my grandpa would want each of his family members and friends to not be sad so much, but rejoice and honor his life and that's what we will be doing later this week. Forever yours grandpa.Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-26538384769120400902014-03-27T13:51:00.000-07:002014-03-27T14:03:23.128-07:00giveaway with Modern PennyGood news for ya today!<br />
My week has been so jam packed filled I've neglected my poor little blog, but I just had to pop in say hello to give you an opportunity to win an Ipad mini!! I'll be back as soon as I can to share in length some personal news. <br />
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I am teaming up with Ashley from <a href="http://flatstoflipflops.com/" target="_blank">flats to flip flops</a> and other amazing bloggers to bring you this sweet giveaway courtesy of Modern Penny! I've never heard of <a href="http://modernpenny.com/">ModernPenny.com</a> before, so I'm definltely checking them out to see what daily cuties I find :) you know I love to shop! you too, eh? <br />
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Started by BFF's Kelsie & Julie as a way to share items they<i> loved</i> at prices you'll <i>love</i>, <a href="http://modernpenny.com/" target="_blank">Modern "Penny"</a> is your very own personal shopper disguised as a daily deal site that offers one amazing deal a day. No worries though...they also have a "past deals" section where you can grab past deals for a limited time. Not only do they offer some amazing clothing and jewelry, they also sell home goods, baby, craft supplies and much much more!</div>
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And if you aren't already loving them(you know you are).... today they are generously giving away....<i>drum roll please</i>.....</div>
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<b>an IPAD MINI</b></div>
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*as always, my opinions and thoughts expressed are my own. However, this post is sponsored by modern penny.
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</script>Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-48316812544020974582014-03-19T18:32:00.000-07:002014-03-19T18:32:15.269-07:00take me out to the ball gamepsh, it's midweek and I am just getting to the weekend recap. it's ok, right?<br />
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over the weekend i ventured out with a group of friends to go see the mariners vs the giants! it was so fun much! Now, it hit at least 85 degrees out and if you're basking in the sun, it doesnt take long for that sun to zap you of energy and overheat you! But i brought my little umbrella and we shared and drank lots of water and slathered on sunscreen.<br />
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Clint put his sunscreen on standing up, so when he sat down he didn't think about his shorts riding up a bit, so his upper legs got burned. Then, me and des went and got some food so, browsing around helped not be in the direct sun. Around the end of the 4th inning, I needed a breathing treatment so david found an outlet right behind where our group was sitting and there was glorious shade!! and the breeze picked up again. The spot I did my breathing treatment was near the smokers area. perfect! haha.<br />
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Alot of people started leaving the game between the 5-6th inning, and our group was baked and hungry and wanted to be in A/C, so we went to eat at Red Robin. Eric and I had our own basket of precious fries to share haha.<br />
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It was a great to enjoy being outside and being with great friends!Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-192552080654085898.post-22560921692583904102014-03-18T16:57:00.001-07:002014-03-18T16:57:34.870-07:00Ta-Da!DO you love my new blog design!?<br />
I sure do!! It's been in the works for a couple of weeks now as I've communicated back and forth between my designer/blogger, Sabrina Dellinger of <a href="http://www.sabrinadellinger.com/" target="_blank">Hey Sabrina Faith</a>. I definitely wanted a simpler, cleaner look and that's what got delivered! Yay! I love the color yellow and well, black is a fave too, so those had to be there! Sabrina was an absolute joy to work with! She was so patient with me and assured me that she wanted me to be picky if I didn't like something. I feel like this new design represents me better now, as I've grown and experienced so much good things this past year. It was time to be out with the old and in with the new. I wanted something bold, but sophisticated. Serious, but fun and with pops of color!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">oldie but goodie</td></tr>
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Sabrina's rates are {very} reasonable, especially considering the time & talent she dedicates to making sure you love your new design. If any of you want a new design for your blog now, or sometime this year, check out her <a href="http://www.sabrinadellinger.com/p/design.html" target="_blank">packages and things</a> she offers, like a cover for your facebook or etsy shop? and see her previous <a href="http://www.sabrinadellinger.com/p/portfolio.html" target="_blank">work</a> too.<br />
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So yeh, this is the BIG REVEAL and Sunny Tales & Happy Mail is new & improved and here to stay for the foreseeable future! Thank you Sabrina for the new look! And thank you, my readers, for supporting me and my blog and for all the love you give me every time I post.<br />
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One of my goals for this blog since the beginning is to be a source of inspiration. A place that you feel hope or happiness and maybe have a smile on your face after you close the tab and go on with your daily life. Even though I do share struggles in my life, I don't think I portray myself to be a debbie downer nor can anyone expect happy, pretty posts all the time. No one's life is like that, for real. And Brittany likes to keep things real here. We all go through trials. We all have uncooperative hair days, food in our teeth, cars breaking down (in my case, my wheelchair), or physical ailments, but we can choose to be happy as we realize the good. The blessings we do have measure far more than that particular struggle or negative thing in our life at any given time. Let's get through it together. Thanks for being awesome people! Chat soon! <br />
<br />Brittany T.http://www.blogger.com/profile/05722543619122757273noreply@blogger.com2