January Empties

As mentioned in my Make-Up Organization post, I am posting my monthly empties.  I am determined to use the products I already own.  I have so many half full bottles of shampoo and about a million travel size lotions from hotels.  I always take them with the intention of keeping one in my purse, but that doesn't usually happen.  Now, I have WAY too many.

This month's empties are pretty random.  Most of it is shampoo and skincare items.  There are a couple of make-up empties though. 

First up, is Nexxus shampoo.  I like the way this shampoo smells (my main reason for purchasing it), however I will not be purchasing it again.  I am trying to get rid of other shampoo's before switching to my all natural shampoo.  

Crest 3D White Strips - I use these probably every three months.  I love them and have used them for years.  I will definitely be repurchasing these.  

Bath and Body Works, Stress Relief body wash - I love the scent of this.  I've been using it for a long time and will be purchasing it again.

Random array of travel shampoo and body wash - These bottles were half full.  They are here purely because they are empty.  None of them will be repurchased. 

Aveeno Travel Size Lotion - I bought this back when I spent a lot of time on flights two and from Mississippi.  It had about enough left in it to use twice.  I like the consistency of this lotion and would repurchase it when I run out of hotel lotions.  (Hotel lotion pictured with Aveeno)

Clinique Eye Make-Up Remover - This is my holy grail for removing my eye make-up at night.  This is definitely a repurchase for me. 

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion - This is a product I used simply because I had it.  I prefer Clinique's moisturizing gel because I have oily skin.  If you have dry skin I would highly recommend this moisturizer.

Urban Decay, b6 Vitamin-Infused Complexion Prep Spray - This spray is supposed to prep the skin with vitamins and help reduce redness and shrink pores.  My lovely Sephora gal gave me this sample because I have such oily skin.  Honestly, I didn't notice a different when I used it verse times I did not use it.  I probably would not spend the money to purchase the full size bottle of this.  

Bioré Blemish Fighting Ice Cleanser - Again, this is a sample I used simply because I had it.  I do not have acne, just the occasional break out.  I felt like this was a good face wash to use in the morning, but will not be purchasing the full sized bottle.  

Sensodyne Pronamel toothpaste - This is my favorite toothpaste.  I have several teeth that are very sensitive.  I feel this has helped and I love how fresh my teeth feel after.  I will definitely repurchase this. 

Ole Henricksen Truth Serum Collagen Booster - Love this!  My skin feels so soft after applying this. This is a sample size I got from my Sephora Beauty Insider points a while ago.  I loved it so much I went and bought the full size before this sample was gone.  

Too Faced LashGasm Mascara - I got this in a pallet and liked it.  I'll be honest, it's not my favorite, but I did like it.  I don't know if I'll be repurchasing it or not.  I still have a lot of mascara to go through before I consider purchasing any! 

Revlon, Just Biten lip stain - I liked this product, but not the color (Instinct).  This lip stain has a marker on one end (the stain) and a chapstick on the other end.  I liked the chapstick end very well.  My lips were very well hyrdrated.   I might consider buying this product again in a different shade.  

Gap, Dream Perfume -- Okay, before posting this, I wasn't sure if they even make this anymore.  This is a bottle from my college days, at least.  Back in the day, this was my favorite scent.  So much that I couldn't bring myself to use the last of it.  Weird, I know.  But now it's in my empties.  I still like the scent, but I wouldn't repurchase it.

So there they are; my empties for January.  Be sure to check back at the end of February for more empties.  I'm sure I'll have more make-up empties this month.  I have several eyeshadows that have hit pan.  

Happy Wednesday!!!

Friday Facts

Oh, Friday, I've missed you! 

Here are my five facts...

1)  The heating unit in my gym at school is broken.... I'm bundled up and still cold.

2)  Today is payday... the third of the month.  Holla!

3)  Day 9 of my AdvoCare Herbal Cleanse -- I'm cranky.  And I want pizza.

4)  My make-up looks amazing today.  (Yes, tooting my own horn there.)

5)  I'm rooting for the Broncos this weekend!!!


On as side note.... What self tanners do you all use?  I've been using Tan Towels, but would consider switching to something different, but I need suggestions.  Thanks!!!

A Lesson On Who's Really In Charge

A couple weeks ago I noticed my SUV would pull to the left when I drove.  I knew this meant my alignment was probably off and if I let it go, my tires would wear unevenly and it would be more costly.


I did what any responsible adult would do and made an appointment for an alignment check one day after school (at a nationally known business).  Thinking I knew the diagnosis, I didn't worry about it.  After sitting in the waiting area for about 20 minutes they called me to the desk. The man behind the counter proceeded to tell me not only was my alignment extremely off, but I had other issues that were very costly to repair.  When I saw the total at the bottom of the estimate sheet, I about died. 


I set an appointment for a couple days later to get everything fixed and went home overwhelmed.  I felt defeated as this was just another unexpected bill to add to the list. 


I decided to call a mechanic, who came highly recommended from a friend.  The mechanic, James, highly recommended I get a second opinion.  


The next day, James looked at my SUV.  The diagnosis -- the first place I had gone to lied.  My alignment was just slightly off, but the list of other repairs I got were completely unnecessary.  James suggested I get my tires rotated because they were wearing unevenly just from daily driving.  He also suggested I never buy Good Year tires again, as he has never had good experiences with them or seen good wear on any his customers have had.

I breathed a sigh of relief, but still felt overwhelmed.  What if James was wrong and the list I got from the first place was accurate.  How as I going to pay for the repairs?

I couldn't shake those thoughts so I went in and talked to a friend at school.  Her words were simple.  "God will provide."  I knew that in my heart, but in my mind, I still thought the "what if's."


I cancelled my appointment to have the repairs done at the first place and made an appointment at a third place.  I needed my oil changed anyway, so I asked the third place to rotate my tires as well.  They asked if it was just a routine tire rotation or for specific reason.  I briefly filled them in on the diagnosis I got from the first place and from James, then went at sat in their waiting room.  As I sat there, I kept thinking, "what if they find the problems the first place found?" 


Half an hour later, they called me up to the desk.  Their diagnosis..... the same as James'.  My alignment was just slightly off, but most of the issue was my tires needing to be rotated.  My total -- $15 (I had a coupon for a free oil change). 


My friend from school was right.  God had provided.  Sometimes I need the reminder that, in all aspects of life, I'm not the one in charge.  He is and He will always provide all I need.

Make-Up Organization

A couple days ago, Trista from Life According to Trista did a link up about what's in your make-up bag.  My answer.. WAY TOO MUCH!  (Read Make-out 2014) 

So, over my Christmas break (which was extended by a full week due to the 14 inches of snow that dumped on us the Sunday before we were scheduled to go back) I sat down and went through my collection.  

I stated by emptying the bag that housed most of my cosmetics.  I sorted each product and made a list of what I have.  Wow.  I was shocked to discover how many tubes of mascara I have opened (8), how many eyeliners I have (8 - 5 of which are black), how many lip products I have (28), how many single eyeshadows I have (32), how many blushes I have (7) and how many different perfumes I have (6). 

I was embarrassed as I sat there on the floor in my living room just looking at all the stuff - so much that I could not bring myself to take a picture of it all. I made a list of how many of each item I have, and am determined to get those numbers down.  

After what felt like hours of sorting and deciding what products I could throw away I finally started putting them into my new Muji drawers.  

In order to hold myself accountable and use up the products I already have, I am keeping the empty bottles/containers and will do a post on all my "empties" at the end of each month. 

I am very happy with the way this organization project turned out. The Muji drawers are small enough that they can sit nicely right on my vanity.  I have space for them in my cabinet, but am starting out with them being visible so I don't fall into my former habit of using the same products over and over and over again.  I love being able to pull out a drawer and really see what I have.  I have found myself using (and really liking again) products I have not used in a couple months.  

Muji acrylic drawers for the win.   

My next organization project... the linen closet in my master bathroom.  

Looking Ahead

With the start of a new year day comes new opportunities.  I am determined to make today, and the days ahead some of the best.  In order to do this, I have set goals for myself. 

ONE

Make trust and forgiveness my default mode.  

This is something I struggle with.   I have always been a person who will forgive (with time), but never completely trust again.  Once that trust is gone, I have no interest in allowing it to grow again.  I want to get to a place in life where trusting and forgiving come easier and more naturally to me. 

TWO

Adopt Makeout 2014

Christine from Pink So Foxy did an inventory of her make-up collection and discovered she had FAR more than needed.  As a result of this she made a contract for herself (Makeout 2013) allowing her to purchase 10 new "pieces" of make-up during the entire 2013 year.  Make-up is my weakness.  I love it.  I find a product I "just have to have" and buy it only to find a new product I "just have to have" not long after purchasing the previous product.  During 2014 I will be doing Makeout 2014 and allowing myself to purchase just 10 new "pieces" of make-up.  This includes foundations (after mine is gone) and brushes.  

THREE

Be more organized.

I am in the process of organizing my life... Starting with my bathroom vanity and linen closet.  I am getting rid of a lot of "stuff", so it's time to organize what's staying here.  

I recently bought these drawers (found here and here) for my bathroom to organize my make-up and assess what all I truly have (see also: Makeout 2014).

Other areas or organization include my bills (I bought all the components for Nina's Bill Book, but never put it together), clothes (so many things I don't wear, but can't seem to part with), closets in guest rooms, and garage.   Good thing I have a year.  

FOUR

Run the Fort For Fitness Half Marathon again... and PR.

So there they are... my big goals for the coming months. What goals do you have?

Merry Christmas

 As you spend time with your family and friends this Christmas, please take time to remember those who cannot be with their family.  Those defending our freedom don't get a Christmas vacation.  

Merry Christmas to you all... and THANK YOU to our troops.

My Friends Are Like Make-Up Brushes

I've never been the type of person who identifies with just one group of people.  Throughout life I have always  been friends with several different "groups".  I have always been the type of person with an awesome mixture of friends.  

Like my make-up brushes, each friend is unique in what they bring to my life.  No two people are exactly the same, and I love that.  Each one has a uniqueness about them that drew me to that person from the beginning.

Some of my friends, like my make-up brushes, I am in contact with on a daily basis while others I see just occasionally.  However, that doesn't mean I care less about those I don't see as often.  

I have some friends that have been with be for years, while others I have only had for a short while.  Regardless, like my make-up brushes, I have a hard time getting rid of friends.  I am the type of person that once I consider you a friend, I hold tight to our friendship.  Time may pass without seeing each other and being able to talk, but I will always be there for my friends. 

So, this is for all of you whom I have ever laughed with, cried with, ran with, reminisced with, hugged, or simply chatted with.  Thanks for being one of my make-up brushes.  Without all of my, my set wouldn't be complete.

Struggles

We all have them.

Whether they be body image, exercising, eating healthy, family, friends, yourself.... we all struggle with something or things.   The last few weeks have been difficult ones for me.  I have struggled with a lot of things.  Things that for a brief period of time, changed who I was, and I didn't like it.  Over the last couple weeks, I have been taking time to work on me.

I know I am not perfect.  I make mistakes.  But I am working to better myself.

I've had long talks with my best friend about everything.  She keeps me in check when I fall out of line.   She has seen me at my best and she has seen me at my worst. She has seen the good in me when I have struggled to see it in myself. I can honestly say she was put in my life to make me a better person.

R and I made this past weekend a date weekend.  Laundry and cleaning the house was put on hold for the weekend.  We spend Friday night at the hockey game in town and Saturday by a bonfire in our back yard.  Nothing extravagant, just the two of us spending quality time together. No friends, no outside distractions.   It was great.  Sometimes after 12 years together we tend to overlook the small things we love about each other.

All in all, things are looking up.  I can choose to be optimistic or pessimistic.

My glass is half full.

Five On Friday

Today I'm linking up with Darci for my Five on Friday.   

My five this week are things I am thankful for.

ONE: Prospective

No matter what I'm going though, things could always be worse.  I'm learning to focus on what I have and not what I don't have.


TWO:  My students

They make me smile even on those days when it seems like there isn't anything to smile about.


THREE:  Music

Music speaks when words cannot be found.  My days would be boring without music.


FOUR:  Family

Those God has blessed me with and those friends that have become my family - they are my constant number one fans.


FIVE:  Midwest Sunrises

They are breath taking this time of year.

 

Happy Friday, everyone!

10 Day Cleanse - Day 1 (Take 3)

Good morning!

Today started my third round of the AdvoCare 10 Day Cleanse.  I was actually really excited to start this round.  I love the way I feel after I'm done! 

R had already left for work when I got up this morning, so he wasn't there to take my "before" photo.   That's on the agenda for tonight after I survive a long night of parent, teacher conferences.  I can tell you when I stepped on the scale to get my starting weight, I wasn't mad about it.

The scale read 137 (I am 5'5").  Yesterday morning I was 135, but ate everything in sight since I knew the next 10 days wouldn't allow anything good fun. 

My morning started with my fiber drink and Omega Plex vitamin.

For breakfast I whipped up my very first green smoothie.  I was a little nervous, but it turned out DELICIOUS!  This will definitely be a breakfast staple during, and after, my cleanse.  It was so filling! 

Source

I didn't add the banana, mostly because we didn't have any and partly because I'm not a big fan of the texture of bananas when they are blended.  I did add some chia seeds for extra fiber (as if I need that right now, but I put then in/on just about everything).  The picture above makes it look more yellow than green, which wasn't the case at all.  

The rest of my menu at school this...

Like I said, we have parent-teacher conferences tonight so I packed a few extra snacks.  They feed us at school on these nights, but I don't know what they will be providing, so I was sure to pack enough to tide me over until I get home tonight.  

And finally, one last picture of my view this morning.

Nothing beats a midwest sunrise.

Cleanse day 1 - OUT!

Perfection, and a Reminder

At 7:33 yesterday morning my best friend delivered a 19 inch, 9 pound, baby boy.  He's 9 pounds of awesomeness.  This little guy has the best cheeks, the cutest little nose, and the most precious fingers and toes I've ever seen.  I can't wait to watch him grow into an incredible kid.  He has blessed so many lives already.


**Don't forget, some of us are starting the AdvoCare 10 Day Cleanse on Tuesday.  It is very gentle and will leave you feeling amazing when the 10 days are over.  You eat real food - but it must be clean (lean meats, veggies, etc).  If you want to order a cleanse you can do that HERE.  I am giving 100% of my profits from now until he comes home to Lora and Baby Harper.  So, not only will you be helping yourself feel better, but you'll be helping this little guy as well.  So far the total Baby Harper will be getting is $191!!  
THANK YOU!!  **

Thoughts... "Remember That Time" Style

So I know I promised pictures of my Sugar Love Boutique finds, and I will do them, it's been a crazy busy week and I feel like I'm hardly treading water right now, so please be patient with me.  

Today I'm giving my thoughts Kimmy-style.  She is notorious for her "remember that time" stories.  

Remember that time I had two friends, both named Jennifer Miller programed into my phone and one of them texted me about getting free tickets to Snickerz (a comdey club here) and I didn't look closely to see which Jennifer Miller it was.  So I assumed it was Fatchick2fitchick, Jennifer Miller and text her back saying I was in for the show and we should get Holly, Melanie and their husbands to come up and go too.  To which she replied, "Who??"  Yea, that was Tuesday.

Remember that time I was Face Timing with Megan and Twilight Sparkle and Megan said, "Look at Ashley's hair!  Doesn't it look like Rapunzel?"  To which Twilight Sparkle replied, "No, only pretty girls have hair like Rapunzel."  Of course we died laughing.... but I got burned by a 4 year old.   Yea, that was also Tuesday.

Remember that time two teachers at school were in charge of our United Way Campaign, but I (and another teacher) did all the work.  Then when I had had enough and got a little snippy, one of the teachers "in charge" stopped me later and asked if I was feeling better.  I gave her a funny look and she replied with, "Well, I thought maybe you were PMSing with the way you crapped at me earlier."  Really?!?!?  Yep, also Tuesday.

Just a reminder:  If you would like and AdvoCare products, I have decided to donate 100% of my profits from now until he leaves the NICU to Lora and Baby Harper.   Several of us are starting the 10 Day Cleanse next Tuesday.   If you would like to join the fun, you can order HERE.

A Little Sugar Love With Some Brady Bands On Top

Happy Friday Eve!!!

Last night I had the privilege of going over to Jill, from Sugar Love Boutique's, house to do some shopping!!  I absolutely love her boutique and I'm all about supporting local businesses.   Jill is hands down one of the sweetest ladies I've ever met!  It's obvious she, and her daughters, are very passionate about what they do.  

I left their gorgeous home with two sweaters and a necklace.  Blogger fail, I didn't take any pictures.  Count on those tonight and added to the post tomorrow.  

I also received my first Brady Bands order yesterday!!!  It was a great day! I was gifted a Brady Band which I wore during the half marathon.  I am sold!  These are the first bands I've ever worn that did not slip. at. all.  

The sequin Brady Band is a much brighter pink that what it's showing in the picture.  Can't wait to break these in at the gym and on my runs!!  

Check back tomorrow for pictures of my Sugar Love Boutique finds!!  

Happy Friday Eve!

So What Wednesday

If you're new around these parts, get with the program!   Link up and tell me what you're saying "so what" about!

So What If...

...I haven't worked out since the Fort4Fitness half on Saturday.  Leading up to race day I felt like all I did was run.  It's been great having this break.  But, alas, all good things must come to an end.  Tonight I am lacing up my running shoes and pounding the pavement for a 5-6 miler.

...I was in bed at 8:30 last night.  It's getting dark earlier and with nothing good on tv, I figured I might as well just go to bed.

...I'm missing Holly, Melanie, Megan, and Brandi like crazy!  We had a great weekend!  We need to figure out how to make Missouri, Texas and Indiana closer together. 

...I didn't win Skinny Meg's Diet Bet.  I did manage to drop 5 pounds (darn that last .4).  

...I'm on a fall decoration kick lately.  I've only purchased a small bag of gourds, but there is so much more I want.  If only we weren't trying to pinch pennies.

...I don't want to erase what R wrote on our "I love you because..." board.  It's too sweet!!  

...I wish I could swing going to St. Louis this weekend to run the MO Cowbell half with Holly and Mel!  Love those girls! 

...I really want something to hang in the wall to display my medals and bibs.

That's all I've got for today.  Happy Wednesday, Rockstars!!!

Weekend and First Half Marathon Race Recap

The weekend I had been waiting for since April has come and gone.  My first half marathon, the Fort4Fitness, is in the books.  If I could sum it up in one statement I would say it was everything I had hoped for, plus more.

Friday I worked a half day then went into town to meet Megan and Brandi.  To say I was nervous would be an understatement.  I had no idea what to expect.  Would they be what I was expecting?  Would I be what they were expecting?  Thankfully, I had already met Holly and Mel several times, so I knew exactly what I was getting into once they arrived.  I am especially thankful that my nerves were unnecessary!  Brandi and Megan are such genuine people!  I am so glad to have finally met them!  It was also great meeting Faith, another Fort Wayne local. Hello, new running buddy!

Story time with Holly.

Friday night consisted of pasta dinner, lots of water, and very little sleep for me.  

Meredith, Kristie, Kara, Mel, Brandi, Megan, me, and Holly

Saturday morning I had my pre-race breakfast of two pieces of toast with peat butter and one egg.  Not being an experienced half marathoner I had no idea how much I needed to eat.  Turns out, I ate the perfect amount!

Once we left and headed into town my nerves about the race calmed.  I met up with the girls, we drank some more water, took pre-race pictures so if I died, there was proof that I at least started, went to the bathroom, and found our corral.  As soon as I entered the corral, I was calm and collected.  I knew I had a job to do, and I was determined to not die do that job.

Here's a recap of my thoughts mile by mile as I ran....

Mile 1 - I hope I can do this.

Mile 2 - Look at all these people running!  This is the moment I have been training for! Oh, there's a bathroom, wonder if Meg needs to go? 

Mile 3 - 5K complete and I'm feeling good!  Megan and Holly are by my side.  We're going to do this!

Mile 4 - Single digits remain!  I hope Holly is okay, she doesn't appear to be having any fun.

Mile 5 - Water!  Body check - legs?  Feeling good.  Breathing?  Calm and controlled. Dare I say this is fun?!?!

Mile 6 - Almost half way.  I wonder how far ahead Mel and Brandi are.

Mile 7 - Why did the guy on the hovaround just ask the people walking if they are okay?  How is he going to transport them if they arent?

Mile 8 - Well over half way!  5 more to go.  

Mile 9 - Knees are a little sore, must keep moving.  Crap!  The 2:20 pace team is behind me.  I cannot let them pass me!!

Mile 10 - I'm feeling okay, only 3.1 more.  

Mile 11 - There's Mom and Dad!!  I'm still smiling! (They were the push I needed to finish strong)  Beer shots!!  Just what I've been waiting for!

Mile 12 - This is the longest mile of my life! Where is the stadium??

              I wonder where R, Lee, Brooke, and Jen are?

              I see American Flags up ahead, that has to be them!!  I'm taking that flag with me!!

Mile 13 - (inside the stadium)  Look at all the people!  I can't believe this is almost over!  Smile and celebrate for the finish line camera!

First post-race photo.  Loved having these ladies there to
 cheer me on at the finish! 

I completed my first half marathon in 2:19.  

 

SO thankful for these 4 ladies!
They have no idea how much their support meant!
HUGE thanks to Brady Bands for providing the only headband I've ever worn that truly did not slip!

After everyone finished we walked over to The Dash-In for lunch and a surprise Baby Sprinkle for PregMeg.   It was great meeting so many new friends at the diner!

Then Megan got the best idea ever!  Post race pedicures!  Seven of us loaded up in my car and off we went to pamper our poor toes. I'm definitely doing this after every half!

After naps and MUCH needed showers, we met up for dinner and a headed to a place called Flashbacks (an 80's bar downtown).

Great way to end a great day! 

I was so humbled to have friends come from out of state to run with me.  I have been amazed by my husband who has believed from the day I registered back in April that I could do this.  He believed in me when I didn't believe in myself.  Our group of friends came out and tailgated by the finish line (even my best friend who is could-pop-anyday-pregnant!).  I couldn't ask for a better group of friends.  And my Mom and Dad, who have always been my number one fans were along the route.  I was so happy to see them! I wanted to hug them, but I didn't... I had a goal to beat!  :)    

I think the highlight of my race besides surviving was Holly telling me, post-race, "I just ran behind you for three miles and watched your tiny ass!"  NO ONE has ever called my ass tiny!  Thanks Holly!  You'll forever be the whipped vodka to my pineapple juice after that one!  

Bucket list update: Run a half marathon = check!

Harper Young

I had all intentions of writing this post yesterday, but school was crazy and I wasn't even able to sit at my desk and check my email until 3:40. Anywho... here's the scoop...

My IRL friend, Lora, from Raising Steppe Sisters, delivered her precious bundle of joy on Sunday.  She was just 26ish weeks pregnant at the time.  Baby Harper is stable, but they have been told the first 75 hours are the most critical.  Please pray for these 75 hours to go by without complication.  Once past those 75 hours, Harper will still have a long road ahead of him. He will be in the hospital until December.  In order to help, some friends have sent up a fund raising page for the family.  If you are able and feel called to donate, please visit this page. No amount is too small.  If you are unable to give financially, please pray for baby Harper, as well as his Mommy, Daddy, and two big sisters.

Also,  as most of you know, I am an independent distributor for Advocare.  I will be donating 100% of my profits from now through November 1st to Baby Harper's fund.  If you need Spark, a 10 Day Cleanse, or even a 24 Day Challenge Bundle, you will not only be helping yourself live a healthier lifestyle, but you will also be helping Harper. The buttons below will link you directly to the my 10 Day Cleanse and 24 Day Challenge pages.

                                           

Happy Hump Day friends!  The rest of my week is busy preparing for my girls to arrive on Friday and focusing on getting through my first half marathon on Saturday.  It should be a good weekend!!!